13 Sep 1996 Overseas Visit 2891

FRIDAY, 13 SEPTEMBER 1996 Mother/Baby Residential Unit, Gold Coast From Mr Quinn (1,840 signatories) requesting the House establish and fund the Mr SPEAKER (Hon. N. J. Turner, Nicklin) daily operation of a mother/baby residential read prayers and took the chair at 9.30 a.m. unit on the Gold Coast.

AUDITOR-GENERAL'S REPORTS Public Housing Mr SPEAKER: Order! Honourable From Mr Roberts (362 signatories) members, I have to advise the House that requesting the House to take actions to today I received from the Auditor-General a ensure that the coalition Government meets report titled Queensland Audit Office Auditing its commitments to (a) tenants in public Standards July 1996 and the report on Audits housing, that they are not charged more than of Universities and Grammar Schools for 1995. 25 per cent of their income in rent (b) tenants in public housing, that they are not PETITIONS disadvantaged and (c) introduce accountable strategies for addition and replacement of The Clerk announced the receipt of the housing stock to ensure that proceeds of sales following petitions— of public housing to tenants are reinvested in public housing. School Cleaning From Mr Purcell (7 signatories) Suncorp requesting the House to reverse the decision From Mr Welford (1 signatory) by the Minister for Education to privatise requesting the House to reject any move to cleaning in Queensland schools. sell off Suncorp. Petitions received. Colmslie Beach Land From Mr Purcell (51 signatories) PAPERS requesting the House to support and encourage the sale of 8.99 hectares of The following papers were laid on the land—real property description 201432, Lot 2, table— Colmslie Road, Murarrie (also known as (a) Premier (Mr Borbidge)— Colmslie Beach) to the Brisbane City Council Report on visit to the United States of without delay at open space prices for the America from 14 to 25 August 1996 purpose of parkland to be held in perpetuity (b) Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for for the people of Brisbane. The majority of the Arts (Mrs Sheldon)— prime riverfront land has been sold to industry and the undersigned believe the State Queensland Office of Financial Supervision—Annual Report 1995-96 Government should sell this site to the Brisbane City Council for the benefit of the (c) Minister for Emergency Services and people of Brisbane and future generations for Minister for Sport (Mr Veivers)— recreational purposes. Report on study tour to Atlanta, New York and London from 16 to 30 July 1996.

Gateway Bridge Toll; Busway Project OVERSEAS VISIT From Mr Purcell (352 signatories) requesting the House to (a) remove the toll on Report the Gateway Bridge to remove the Hon. M. D. VEIVERS (Southport— impediment to peak hour traffic and Minister for Emergency Services and Minister encourage use of the Gateway Arterial which for Sport) (9.34 a.m.): I table a report on a would also reduce traffic congestion in the study tour to Atlanta, New York and London. central city area and (b) support the Brisbane This report informs Parliament of the major City Council's busway project which is purpose of my visit to Atlanta and my designed to massively increase patronage of presence at Queensland's two official Brisbane buses to reduce the increase in functions. I think that I should tell members of private vehicle use. this House about that trip. 2892 Ministerial Statement 13 Sep 1996

These functions had the specific objective would have until June 1997 to place a detailed to attract teams to our State by showing proposal before the bureau for its international sporting teams' management the consideration. A final decision by the bureau's standards of our Queensland's sporting general assembly is not expected until facilities. As can be seen by the report, the trip December 1997. was highly successful in achieving that basic The Government believes it is in the objective. State's best interests to fully investigate the Mr SPEAKER: Order! This is not a feasibility of hosting such an event. The ministerial statement. Co-ordinator-General will oversee the Mr VEIVERS: No. Mr Speaker, I just evaluation process and I will report back to wanted to inform members that Parliament State Cabinet shortly on its outcome. should note—- Mr SPEAKER: Order! This not a MINISTERIAL STATEMENT ministerial statement. Does the Minister have Brisbane Festival something to table? Hon. J. M. SHELDON (Caloundra— Mr VEIVERS: I am about to table the Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for report. Parliament should note that most of The Arts) (9.38 a.m.), by leave: I rise in this the international teams' management had not place to speak about the outstanding success heard of Queensland. I table the report. of this year's inaugural 15-day Brisbane Festival, which concluded on Sunday, 8 September. MINISTERIAL STATEMENT As Treasurer and Minister for The Arts, I World Environment Exposition 2005 am proud that the $1m allocated to the Hon. R. E. BORBIDGE (Surfers festival by this coalition Government has Paradise—Premier) (9.36 a.m.), by leave: played a major part in this success by allowing Honourable members are well aware of the programming to be very ambitious and helping success that Queensland has had in staging to keep ticket prices at an affordable level for major events such as the 1982 the general community. Commonwealth Games and World Expo '88. The Government's trust in the artistic These events raised our international profile director, Mr Tony Gould, as evidenced by the and provided a significant boost to economic size of our contribution, has proven to be very growth, primarily through tourism and well founded. infrastructure development. Mr Elder interjected. On Wednesday I outlined to the House Mrs SHELDON: I know that the Deputy Queensland's latest efforts to secure the right Leader of the Opposition does not think much to stage the 2006 Commonwealth Games. of Mr Gould, but I think that he is a man Today, I advise that the State whose ability has been well proven. Government is to undertake an immediate Mr ELDER: I rise to a point of order. I evaluation of a proposal to host a world find those remarks offensive and I ask the environment exposition in the Brisbane-Gold Minister to withdraw. I happen to think a lot of Coast corridor in the year 2005. Tony Gould. As well as the State taking steps to Mr SPEAKER: There is no point of assess the feasibility of such a proposal, it will order. also be necessary for the Federal Government to agree to submit an application to the Mrs SHELDON: Mr Speaker, it is a pity Bureau of International Expositions by 18 that the member said the words that he did October 1996. In this regard I will be advising when he interjected. the Prime Minister of Queensland's interest Over the years, Tony Gould has made the and seek his support for such an application Queensland Performing Arts Complex the provided, of course, that initial assessments most financially successful arts centre in vindicate such action. Australia and a centre which has become very To date, both Japan and Canada have well known on the international scene. notified the BIE of their desire to host the With only eight months' lead time, Mr 2005 environment exposition, so strong Gould and his creative team put together a competition is to be expected. If Queensland, quality arts program where international and through the Federal Government, notifies the national performers happily rubbed shoulders BIE of its candidature before 18 October, it with the cream of our local performing arts 13 Sep 1996 Ministerial Statement 2893 talent, creating a program of huge scope and festival, will both tour regional Queensland. diversity. Importantly, many of the festival's events were Before I talk about the cultural aspects of free to the public, which makes the the festival, I have to applaud its extraordinary Queensland Performing Arts Trust's feat in financial success. The festival's budget of exceeding its budgeted income even more close to $7m was made up of this remarkable. Government's contribution plus $1.5m from I was pleased by the quality and variety of the Performing Arts Trust; a similar amount this inaugural festival, and I intend to see that from corporate sponsorship; $500,000 from the Brisbane Festival continues indefinitely as the Brisbane City Council; $500,000 in part of Queensland's cultural right—a fulfilment carryovers from Warana; $250,000 from of our cultural needs. Elements of this merchandising fees and projected box office dramatic development of the performing arts income of $1.5m. in Queensland will be shared by the rest of Australia via an ABC television documentary In the event, with more than 80,000 which is scheduled for national viewing within tickets sold, box office revenue was in excess the next few weeks. of $1.7m—a figure that augurs very well indeed for future festivals with longer periods This year is an historic one for the of planning time. This is particularly true when inaugural Brisbane Festival, marking, as it one considers that the well-established does, the financial and artistic triumph of Tony Melbourne Festival took a similar amount at Gould and the Queensland Performing Arts the box office at last year's festival and Trust. I congratulate the Brisbane Festival on Melbourne has over twice the population of its outstanding achievement. Brisbane. The Government recognises the flow-on MINISTERIAL STATEMENT advantages from that $7m budget as vital to Neerkol Children's Orphanage economic growth in Queensland's cultural Hon. K. R. LINGARD (Beaudesert— tourism, an increase in employment opportunities in the cultural industries and, Minister for Families, Youth and Community most importantly, work for our local performing Care) (9.43 a.m.), by leave: Until about 15 artists. All in all, we shall find that the years ago the Sisters of Mercy conducted a economic gains of the festival total many children's orphanage at Neerkol, near times the original investment. On the artistic Rockhampton. Today, however, Neerkol side, the gains of such a festival as this are provides conference and accommodation immeasurably rich. facilities to the public. Residents of Neerkol included migrant children from England and As I said at the opening of the festival, children whose parents paid for them to clearly it was to be an event where all of the receive their education whilst boarding at components of our multifaceted Queensland Neerkol, as well as some children in the care society were represented or given voice of the State. through a fine community program consisting To date, six calls have been received from largely of local performance and performers. former residents on the child sexual abuse The vision that I have for the arts in this State hotline within my department. Further embraces the preservation of our cultural allegations continue to be received about heritage, as well as Queensland's emerging abuse of both male and female children. cultural life, as we develop and define our Callers to the hotline allege a pattern of identity and place within the Australian nation incidents of physical and, in some cases, and the wider world. It is from our multicultural sexual abuse by the priests and nuns at the society, our Aboriginal communities, the orphanage. In all but one case, the alleged British, Irish and European facets of our perpetrators are deceased. heritage and our place in the Asia-Pacific region that our Queensland individuality is Upon their receipt, the allegations against being forged, and becoming more and more the living person were referred to the clearly expressed and charted by our very Queensland Police Service which is talented artists. conducting appropriate investigations. All callers to the hotline reporting abuse have The local content of the Brisbane Festival individually requested that there be an inquiry reflected this well. Hugh Lunn's adaptation of into Neerkol. Following the completion of the his novel, Over The Top With Jim, and present police investigation, I will refer all Margery Forde's award winning "Snapshots matters to the children's commissioner, when from Home", which gave great pleasure at the that position is created. 2894 Members' Ethics and Parliamentary Privileges Committee 13 Sep 1996

MINISTERIAL STATEMENT will see for themselves, it comprehensively Fleay's Wildlife Park puts the lie to Labor's claims about the Regional Forest Agreements process. It clearly Hon. B. G. LITTLEPROUD (Western shows that the Queensland position matches Downs—Minister for Environment) (9.44 a.m.), that of the Commonwealth. That position is by leave: Yesterday in the House the member that 15 per cent is no magical figure, but for Everton made a deliberate, uninformed simply an analytical tool to be used in claim that the Department of Environment conjunction with socioeconomic studies on the intends to sell Fleay's Wildlife Park. This effects of resource withdrawal. Neither statement, intended for political point scoring, Government will allow the forest industries to deserves the strongest political condemnation. be damaged. Neither Government will put Even the most rudimentary investigation would forest industry workers on the scrap heap and have revealed that Fleay's Wildlife Park cannot neither Government will allow the collapse of be sold. It is held in trust by the Queensland country towns and regional economies. Government. Other land adjacent to the conservation park, but part of the complex, is Labor should reconsider its campaign held in trust by the Gold Coast City Council. aimed at causing needless fear among timber workers, mill owners, and country towns. Mr Welford's statement yesterday did, These people should not be pawns in some however, reveal two things. Firstly, he has political game. scant regard for his own credibility and will say anything if he thinks it may help him politically. Secondly, it revealed to the public that gross CRIMINAL JUSTICE COMMISSION mismanagement by the Goss Government Report has seen Fleay's Wildlife Park expend Hon. V. P. LESTER (Keppel) $400,000 more than it earned last year—yet (9.47 a.m.): I lay upon the table of the House another example of Labor being careless with the CJC's summary of activities for the months other people's money. I state categorically that of July and August 1996. These summaries Fleay's Wildlife Park is not for sale. are something that this Government has reintroduced. Whilst the CJC has a specific MINISTERIAL STATEMENT responsibility to table reports in the Parliament pursuant to section 26 of the Criminal Justice Regional Forest Agreements Act, as the committee has previously advised Hon. T. J. PERRETT (Barambah— the Parliament, there is currently no definition Minister for Primary Industries, Fisheries and of "reports" in the Act. The chairman believes Forestry) (9.45 a.m.), by leave: Yesterday the that it is in the spirit of the Criminal Justice Act member for Bundamba deliberately and that all non-confidential publications by the cynically misrepresented the positions of the CJC are tabled in the Parliament. Therefore, State and Federal Governments on Regional the document is being tabled in accordance Forest Agreements. He took a thoroughly with the prior request of the committee to that dishonourable leading role in a dishonest effect. campaign mounted by the members for The committee stresses that it has in no Maryborough and Fitzroy. Neither Government way conducted an inquiry into the matters will tolerate the blind adherence to the arbitrary which are the subject of the publication. The 15 per cent reserve dictated by the Keating committee simply believes that the Parliament Government and promoted by the Goss and the people of Queensland should be Government's Cabinet Office. informed of all non-confidential publications The member for Bundamba pretended to produced by the CJC. The committee also base his case on a reported conversation stresses that it is the CJC which has between a Labor staffer, Justin Murphy, and a determined this document not to be a report member of the staff of the Federal Minister. of the commission for the purposes of section That Federal staffer categorically denies the 26 of the Criminal Justice Act. I table the Labor version of the conversation and the report. member for Bundamba owes him an apology. I seek leave to table a letter signed by the MEMBERS' ETHICS AND Commonwealth Minister for Primary Industries PARLIAMENTARY PRIVILEGES and Energy. COMMITTEE Leave granted. Report Mr PERRETT: I ask all honourable Ms WARWICK (Barron River) members to read that letter carefully. As they (9.48 a.m.): I lay upon the table of the House 13 Sep 1996 Questions Without Notice 2895 a joint report by myself and Mr Clem small levy being put on off-road, unregistered Campbell, as Chairman and Deputy Chairman vehicles, which we had intended to exclude of the Members' Ethics and Parliamentary because of the severe drought people have Privileges Committee. The report concerns a been going through. study tour by us on behalf of the committee to Mr Mackenroth: Tell us another one. the House of Commons and the Irish Dail. Although not required to report in regard to Mrs SHELDON: It is a fact. If the this travel, we thought it appropriate to do so honourable member would like to speak to in order that members be kept informed as to those people, he should go ahead. The the developments in other jurisdictions on Minister for Environment has discussed the issues such as codes of conduct for members issue with me. He will be taking a submission of Parliament, pecuniary interest disclosures to Cabinet seeking the permission of his and parliamentary privilege generally. Cabinet colleagues to review the position so that all on-farm vehicles will attract a levy. Mr Hamill interjected. QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE Mrs SHELDON: No, we are not. The Primary Producers; Tax Exemptions fact of the matter is that these farming groups Mr BEATTIE (9.49 a.m.): I refer the have shown in a very clear manner that they Deputy Premier and Treasurer to comments are prepared to make their contribution to the by the Primary Industries Minister reported in State. They have indicated that they would be yesterday's Queensland Country Life that prepared to pay this levy. As a result, Mr primary producers can rest assured he will fight Littleproud will take to Cabinet a submission for industry rebates from her taxes on oil and based on what they want. tyres. I table that report. I also refer to a media Honourable members interjected. release of the same day by the Environment Minister, saying that he was attempting to Mr SPEAKER: Order! Before I call the convince the Treasurer that there should be Leader of the Opposition for his second no exemptions from these same taxes. I table question, I point out that it is too rowdy. that for the information of the House. I also Hansard would have difficulty recording the refer to the Treasurer's own comments in this answer. When the Opposition asks a question, place that there would be an exemption on I think it requires an answer. I ask members to these taxes for on-farm vehicles. I ask: can the show some decorum in the Chamber. I now Treasurer tell the House who we are to call on the Leader of the Opposition to ask his believe—Mr Perrett, Mr Littleproud or the second question. Treasurer—or are taxpayers so confused that they have every right to believe that none of Criminal Justice Commission; these Ministers have a clue what they are Investigation of Organised Crime doing and they are not up to the job? Mr BEATTIE: I direct a second question Mrs SHELDON: I am very pleased that to the Deputy Premier and Treasurer. I refer to the Leader of the Opposition brought up the comments by CJC Chairman Frank Clair that position of the Queensland Farmers the funding the Government has allocated to Federation. I notice that it has given the the CJC in 1996-97 is $2.7m short, forcing it to coalition's Budget a rating of between 8 and 9 consider abandoning its role of investigating out of 10. I thank it for its understanding of our organised crime, and I ask: how does the Budget, which is obviously considerably better Treasurer justify this cutback when she found than that of the Leader of the Opposition. $83.6m for the Sunshine Coast tollway debt? Mr Beanland: Nine out of 10? Does this not give the green light to organised Mrs SHELDON: Yes, it was 9 out of 10, crime groups such as the Mafia, the Yakuza which speaks for itself. Our position in the and the drug barons that Queensland, under Budget was that off-road, unregistered the coalition, is soft on crime? vehicles would not be levied, because we were Mrs SHELDON: That question was trying to help out people affected by the about as obtuse as is the Leader of the drought. All farming groups contacted us and Opposition. The fact of the matter is that this said they felt that there should be no issue is before Parliament. We are debating discrimination. the Budget. Mr Mackenroth: Oh! Opposition members interjected. Mrs SHELDON: No. They felt that they Mrs SHELDON: We will be doing so should do their bit. They felt that their until all hours tonight and tomorrow if organisations would be prepared to support a honourable members opposite want to. They 2896 Questions Without Notice 13 Sep 1996 will have adequate time in which to ask those whether he supports the comments just made questions. by his colleague. What is the position of the Labor Party? Workers' Compensation; Sugar Mr Beattie: Am I allowed to answer the Industry Strike question? Mr SPRINGBORG: In directing a Mr BORBIDGE: Yes. question to the Premier, I refer to the 24-hour Mr SPEAKER: Order! Yes, you can strike by sugar industry workers over proposed interject. The Premier has asked a question. changes to Queensland's workers' Mr BEATTIE: In answer to the compensation scheme and the threat of an Honourable Premier's question—let me make escalation in industrial action by the ACTU it clear that this side of the House will always State Secretary, Mr John Thompson, and I fight to save the working conditions of ask: what impact is such action having on Queenslanders, and we will make certain that Queensland's economy and is such action a workplaces are safer for all Queenslanders. threat to the future of a viable workers' compensation scheme? Mr BORBIDGE: We have just seen Nero calling the fire brigade! The mob Mr BORBIDGE: It is unfortunate that opposite, which sent the workers' yesterday up to 7,000 workers in the compensation scheme broke, is actively Queensland sugar industry were placed in a endorsing industrial action which saw the situation by their unions whereby they went on sugar industry close down for a day. We have strike in what is an increasingly blatant and now heard the admission by the Leader of the irresponsible political campaign. The estimated Opposition that the action taken yesterday has cost to industry of yesterday's strike was half a the support of the Labor Party. The industrial million dollars. The estimated cost to action yesterday which brought the sugar employees in lost wages was some $400,000. industry to its knees in this State has the full Mr Bill Ludwig, the State Secretary of the support of the alternative Government or the AWU, the former State President of the Labor man who would be the alternative Premier of Party, is reported as saying that it is just a Queensland. taste of things to come. We also have the ACTU State Secretary, John Thompson, the What the Leader of the Opposition and person who demands meetings to talk about what the Opposition are saying today is that it issues such as workers' compensation and does not matter that legislation is not yet who then does not have the decency to front before the House. It does not matter that the up to those meetings, also warning of an ACTU general secretary does not front up to escalation in industrial turmoil as the meetings that he requests to discuss this Government gets closer to finalising the issue. It does not matter that the Labor Party workers' compensation legislation. is the party which has clocked up a $400m black hole in workers' compensation. It is quite I suggest to rank-and-file union members happy to be party to a reckless and across Queensland that they should have a irresponsible decision by the trade union very close look at whether the action being movement which has cost the sugar industry advocated strongly by their union leaders is in in this State half a million dollars and which their long-term interests or is simply being has cost employees in the sugar industry undertaken to serve political purposes. I ask $400,000 in lost wages. honourable members opposite: do they support the action taken yesterday? Do they What we are seeing is the ongoing support the action of the unions in calling a negligence of the Labor Party in this regard. strike in the sugar industry? The Labor Party was warned about the blow- outs in workers' compensation. As the Mr Purcell: I do. problems with workers' compensation were Mr BORBIDGE: The honourable becoming more and more evident, what did it member does. do? It increased the benefits to employees Mr Purcell: You continue to put their and reduced the premiums. Then it allowed lives at risk. By not covering them with compo, the legal professional to advertise in this State. you will get more of it. As common law claims went up and up, Labor raided the reserves of the Workers Mr SPEAKER: Order! The honourable Compensation Fund. It raided close to $118m member for Bulimba is putting his seat at risk. in the reserves of the Workers Compensation Mr BORBIDGE: I am happy to hear it. I Fund at a time when it knew that common law would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition claims were increasing. What we have had is a 13 Sep 1996 Questions Without Notice 2897 legacy of neglect from the Labor Party. What They will also be approached by departmental we have is a party which created a problem personnel in the park. It is anticipated that the and which has made no positive contribution collection rate across Queensland will not be to rectifying that problem, except to endorse 100 per cent. A feasibility study on the industrial action which is against the interests economics of putting in place extra officers of workers, against the interests of the sugar and weighing that against the amount of industry and against the interests of the State money that would be collected revealed that of Queensland. that was not an option, so we have opted for What we have seen this morning is an the approach of appealing to people to be admission by the Leader of the Opposition supportive. Research has indicated that they and an admission by the member for Bulimba will be supportive of buying a pass to the that they support the reckless, irresponsible national parks of Queensland. It will apply all and politically motivated industrial action that over Queensland, be it the Noosa National we saw in this State yesterday to the detriment Park, the islands off the coast of Queensland of Queensland workers, to the detriment of the or the remote national parks in south-west sugar industry and to the detriment of the Queensland. Queensland economy. Water and Sewerage Infrastructure National Park Passes Subsidy Mr CARROLL: I ask the Minister for Mr ELDER: I refer the Environment Local Government: in view of the Premier's Minister to his $3 per person national park announcement at a recent Local Government pass, and I ask: how will the Government Association State conference in Brisbane, collect and police this tax to walk in or surf off would the Minister please explain to the House the beach in Noosa National Park? Would the the benefits of the doubling of the water and Minister not agree that Mrs Sheldon's sewerage infrastructure subsidy to local Sunshine Coast toll road has been replaced governments from 20 per cent to 40 per cent by her Sunshine Coast toll beach at Noosa? and public reaction to that? Where will the sun lovers who frolic at the Alexandria Bay nudist beach pin their passes? Mrs McCAULEY: I thank the honourable member for his question. This is Mr LITTLEPROUD: I hope the member undoubtedly the greatest boost for local who asked the question does not have a government since the seventies. It will see personal interest in the beach he referred to! $600m over 10 years available for the The intent of the park pass system is to bring construction of water and sewerage treatment Queensland into line with other national parks plants throughout the State. It will mean that across Australia. Many of the passes will be those basic services that should be provided presold. We are asking people to be to all Queenslanders—and sometimes are supportive, and the research shows that not—will be set in place. Councils throughout people are supportive, of the national parks the State will be hopping in to get their subsidy system in Queensland. When people buy their so that they can start building and putting this $20 annual pass to all the national parks in infrastructure in place. Queensland, we may be able to give them a sticker for their cars which says something like There are some minor drawbacks. I "I support the national parks system of noticed while attending a recent country Queensland". Cabinet meeting that a fellow Minister got to inspect the local winery and I got to inspect An Opposition member interjected. the sewage treatment plant! I expect that Mr LITTLEPROUD: The Opposition there will be a lot more of that in the next 12 has asked the question; I will answer it. months. However, let me tell the House what Mr Gibbs: What shape will they take at the Executive Director of the Local the nude beach, the passes? Government Association, Mr Greg Hallam, had to say about this. It bears repeating. He said— Mr LITTLEPROUD: The member can "Local Government is delighted, we go on a personal study tour and come back believe the State Government has just and tell the House! about got it right. The balance is okay, People who live in the Noosa area or who certainly the emphasis on infrastructure is are visiting the Noosa area, as so many do, very much welcomed. The Government and who want to go through the national park has kept their commitments, their will be able to go to the local office and buy a promises to Local Government and there daily pass, a monthly pass or a yearly pass. will be an extra $600 million for water and 2898 Questions Without Notice 13 Sep 1996

sewerage capital works over the next 10 ensure that vital services such as this will years. These sorts of programs, including receive adequate funding to provide the very the extra roads funding will ensure that important support for domestic violence the basic services are provided to victims? Finally, what does the Minister advise Queenslanders in both urban and rural victims to do between 5 p.m. and 9 a.m. and settings." on the weekends, as this is the time when The State President of the LGAQ, Mr Jim most domestic violence occurs? Pennell, also gave his support. He said— Mr LINGARD: The one thing of which I "In these hard times, that support have assured all women is that I have not removed any money from domestic violence permits local governments to not only programs for women. In fact, this Budget enhance the quality of life of their citizens shows an increase for domestic violence but also contributes to meeting the programs for women. However, we have increased demand for an improved expanded the domestic violence program into environment . . ." three special areas: the first is for the elderly; Mr Pennell's entire press release welcomes the second is for counselling for children who the Budget and points out the benefits that it have witnessed domestic violence; and the will bring to local government. This $600m third is for men who are affected by domestic over 10 years is simply one of them. It violence, whether they are victims or includes a special $150m package for smaller perpetrators. communities. That will not be a 40 per cent We all know that elderly victims need subsidy; it will be needs based and will assistance. There has been a significant probably be much higher. This will mean that increase in the Budget to assist elderly people small communities, which previously have who are affected by domestic violence. There been able to access ARCWSSS funding, will has been a similar funding increase for be able to do the same thing again. children affected by domestic violence, and I Mrs Sheldon: It's good for the have increased quite significantly the funding environment, too. available to assist male victims. As I have said, Mrs McCAULEY: It is excellent for the we will provide a hotline service through environment, because it includes a $22m Maroochydore. From 7 o'clock on Wednesday morning, a program commenced whereby any package for effluent re-use and technological victims of domestic violence who ring innovation, such as is being done in in—especially men—will be referred to certain Caboolture. That is the way we need to move. agencies through which they can obtain We need to encourage people to re-use their assistance. There are eight such agencies. I waste water and to re-treat effluent, because have expanded the program that allows water is going to be our most precious people to ring in on the hotline. Men will be commodity. Coming into the year 2000, we able to receive assistance. They will not get need to be looking at this issue. This package advice from that hotline, they will be referred will encourage councils throughout the State from there to agencies—agencies which I to do just that. It is one of the most important have checked to see that they are true to their planks in the back to basics Budget service agreements. I can guarantee that philosophy. Local government was treated as those men's agencies to whom those men will the poor cousin by the Labor Party, but I am be referred do adhere to the service very proud that local government now knows agreements. The hotline service is available that it has a partnership going with the State for all people who wish to use it. Government. We will assist local governments as much as we can. Mrs WOODGATE: I rise to a point of order. My concern is for the women, not the men, the women—98 per cent of the victims. Domestic Violence Hotline Service My question was about the women's domestic Mrs WOODGATE: I refer the Minister violence hotline. for Families, Youth and Community Care to his Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Minister is statement to this House on 24 July 1996 that answering the question. Has the Minister he will expand assistance to programs to finished? assist victims of domestic violence. I ask the Mr LINGARD: Yes, Mr Speaker. Minister: is he aware that Queensland's 24- hour domestic violence hotline service is now being forced to become a part-time, 9 to 5 Boat Building Industry operation because of a funding shortfall? Will Mr GRICE: I ask the Minister for the Minister honour his commitment and Transport and Main Roads to inform the 13 Sep 1996 Questions Without Notice 2899

House of his and his department's plans for Mr JOHNSON: It was under the the rejuvenation of the boat building industry stewardship of the honourable member for and other associated industries within the Ipswich—— marine sector. Mr Hamill: That's when they were going Mr JOHNSON: At the outset, let me say to get the Mackay boat harbour—under my that the marine industry and in particular the stewardship. boat building industry in this State is on its Mr JOHNSON: The member's knees because of legislation introduced by the stewardship was very questionable on many former Government. That legislation has issues. I am not one to cut personalities virtually crippled the boat building industry in about, but the member certainly is. I have told this State because it had to align itself with the member before that he is a very intelligent Queensland's survey rules, which isolated it man and he is a very nice man, too, but that is from the rest of the nation and the probably where it ends, so he should remain international community. as the Opposition Treasury spokesman. In answer to the honourable member's Mr HAMILL: I rise to a point of order. I question—I am happy to tell the House that want to say that I do not find those remarks very soon this Government will introduce offensive and I do not want them withdrawn. legislation that will once again make the Mr SPEAKER: Order! That is a frivolous marine industry, including the boat building point of order. I think the Minister was industry and many other industries—— speaking tongue-in-cheek. Mr Hamill: What happened to the Mr JOHNSON: Does the member want Mackay marina? me to withdraw? It was under the stewardship Mr JOHNSON: I will answer that of the member for Ipswich that we saw the interjection in a minute. There are a number of boat building industry and many other parts of issues here relative to economic benefits for the marine industry in this State crippled this State. The Labor Government virtually because his Government, the Labor turned its back on this industry, which is worth Government, would not consult with the $270m to $300m a year. people. This Government is going to bring back the marine board. That board will consult Mr Hamill: Where's the money for the with and listen to the views of the marine Mackay boat harbour? industry, the boat building industry and every Mr JOHNSON: I will come to the other associated industry. Mackay boat harbour in a moment, my very Last week, my colleague the member for good friend. You are the architect of the Toowoomba North opened the annual Boat dilemma in the boat industry today, and if I Show in Brisbane at which he and this were you, I would sit back and cop this. Government received accolades because we Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Minister will are listening to that industry—an industry that refer to the member as "the honourable has been crippled. I say to that industry that member for Ipswich". this Government is going to make the boat building industry and the marine industry in Mr JOHNSON: I will, Mr Speaker. I will Queensland one of the great industries of this refer to the honourable member for Ipswich State and this nation, because it deserves to directly. be. An Opposition member: That's a I will return to the member for threat. Broadwater's question. We have seen what Mr JOHNSON: No, it is not a threat; it is has happened to the Gold Coast with the a promise. silting up of the Broadwater and many other estuaries along the coast. We are going to put Mr Quinn: It's a fact. in place a Gold Coast port authority which will Mr JOHNSON: As the Minister for look after exactly what was not looked after by Education says, it is a fact. The one thing that the previous Government. Yesterday, we we have to talk about here today, and the heard that the honourable member for honourable member for Broadwater—— Woodridge's boat ran aground somewhere. Mr Elder interjected. He will not have to worry about that happening again once we fix up this problem. Mr Quinn interjected. This Government is going to look after the Mr SPEAKER: Order! The member for tourist traffic, the commercial traffic, and every Capalaba and the Minister for Education! other aspect of the industry within this State. I 2900 Questions Without Notice 13 Sep 1996 thank those involved with the Marine Industry Environment. I outlined my concerns to both Consultative Council for their efforts. of those Federal Ministers. Unfortunately, the Labor Government never In fact, I would like to read into Hansard a listened to that consultative council, but this letter that I wrote to both the Honourable John Government will listen to the new marine Moore and Senator Robert Hill a couple of board and we will listen to the people who are weeks ago. The letter states— associated with the marine industry right throughout this State. "The planned increase of the Environmental Management Charge (EMC) from $1 per person per day to $6 Sale of Queensland Nickel Shares per person per day announced in the Mr McELLIGOTT: I refer the Deputy Federal Budget has caused great concern Premier and Treasurer to her statement that among tourism operators in Queensland. the $83m that she intends to use to partially I am disappointed at the lack of pay off the Sunshine Motorway toll debt has consultation prior to the Budget by the been raised from the sale of shares in the Federal Government with these operators, Townsville-based Queensland Nickel, and I on this issue. I am informed that in many ask: why was this money not used for much instances this increase will have to be met needed infrastructure projects in Townsville by the operators themselves, as their and north Queensland? Is this not just another prices are pre-set for up to the next 18 example of the Treasurer looking after herself months. at the expense of the rest of Queensland? While I believe that the Great Barrier Mrs SHELDON: I draw the honourable Reef must be managed and protected I member's attention to the fact that the Budget also believe that as the Reef is a shows record spending for north Queensland. nationally significant asset, it is a If he looked at the infrastructure that the responsibility for all Australians to share. coalition Government has put in place in Townsville in the seven months that it has The planned increase, combined with been in power, he would realise that we have a 3% reduction in Federal funding to the done more for Townsville and its surrounds Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, than all the Labor members for that area have seems to suggest the Federal ever done, particularly in the past six years. Government is neglecting part of its responsibility and shifting the onus for the management of the Marine Park further Environmental Management Charge towards the tourism operators in Ms WARWICK: I ask the Minister for Queensland. Tourism, Small Business and Industry to The implementation of this increase advise the House what action he has taken on will see nearly 40% of the Authority's behalf of the tour operators in Queensland operational revenue being raised from the who will be affected by the proposed increase EMC. This clearly contradicts the in the environmental management charge. recommendation of the review of the Mr DAVIDSON: I thank the member for EMC which stated 'Equity requires that a Barron River for the question. The member substantial part of the Authority's income has had an interest in the increase in the must come from the public at large, environmental management charge. She has through consolidated revenue'. raised many concerns about it with me and I It is reasonable to require commercial know that she is keen to see this issue users of the Marine Park to contribute to resolved on behalf of the tourism industry in its management, but I strongly oppose a far-north Queensland. 600% increase with no industry In common with the Leader of the consultation. Opposition, I was overseas at the time of the Federal Budget and I became aware of the In addition, the operation of the EMC increase in this environmental management has always discriminated against people charge only two or three days after the using tourist operations on an extended Budget. The moment I returned from basis. overseas, I met with representatives of the If a family or group now hire a boat or industry and I immediately wrote to both the travel on an extended cruise in the Marine Federal Minister for Tourism, John Moore, and Park, the EMC will increase the total cost Senator Robert Hill, the Minister for the of their holiday by up to 7.3%. 13 Sep 1996 Questions Without Notice 2901

This seems unreasonable when will ask me a question." They have both compared to the concessions allowed for issued press releases. They have both asked longer stays or larger groups visiting most questions on notice. In their press releases, National Parks. both of those members have made some very I ask that you reconsider the planned strong statements against the Federal increase of the EMC and address the Government in relation to the increases in anomaly affecting people having charges, and so on. So I thought I would do a extended visits to the Marine Park. bit of research. I thought, "I wonder how genuine they are. Maybe they have not had We in Queensland are very fortunate the opportunity to ask a question, but maybe to have the Great Barrier Reef within our they have written to the Federal Ministers on boundary but I am sure you would agree behalf of the tourism industry and the tourism that Australia, via the Federal operators in Queensland." Government, has a duty to maintain and protect one of its greatest assets. The As a result of an interjection during EMC should not be used as a crutch to question time yesterday, I had my staff ring enable the Federal Government to reduce both Senator Hill's and Mr Moore's offices in or stop funding to the Great Barrier Reef Canberra. I am absolutely astounded that Opposition members seem to have such a Marine Park Authority." great concern about this issue. They have Mr BREDHAUER: I rise to a point of raised it in press releases. They have asked order. Would the Minister table the letter that questions on notice about it. They have run he just read? around this House making interjections about Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no point it. They have made all sorts of statements of order. The Minister is answering the right across this State. But I am absolutely question. amazed that they have not taken the time or bothered to write to either of those Federal Mr DAVIDSON: I would be very happy Ministers or the Prime Minister and represent to show the letter to any member of the the people in their own electorates. Opposition. Mrs Bird: Sit down. Immediately on my return from overseas, I wrote to Senator Hill and the Honourable Mr DAVIDSON: Mrs Bird has not made John Moore to raise this issue with them. any effort or even taken the time to make When the Prime Minister, John Howard, was in representations at the Federal level. All Brisbane two weeks ago addressing a honourable members—especially the member luncheon at the Hilton, I met with him for Whitsunday—and all business people in Queensland can be assured that, when these personally. I raised this issue and discussed issues arise, as the Minister responsible I will with him the concerns of industry and the always do everything within my power to make effects and impacts of this increase on the representations on behalf of business people tourism industry in north Queensland. I have in this State. done nearly everything that I can. My office has been in contact with both Senator Hill's and Minister Moore's office every day of the 2006 Commonwealth Games week. Every day we have rung them to see Mrs ROSE: I refer the Minister for Sport when an announcement will be made. We to Queensland's bid to host the have written to all people in the industry Commonwealth Games in the year 2006, and affected by the increase in this charge. We have also had regular contact with leaders of I ask: how can Queensland's bid be seen as the industry. anything other than a joke when funding for the construction of major sporting facilities has What concerns me is that I have sat here been cut by this Government by over 65 per during question time for three weeks waiting cent, or two-thirds, from $20.4m to just for a question on this issue from the $7.3m? What chance do Queensland athletes Opposition. The honourable Mr Beattie, the have of winning medals at either the Sydney Leader of the Opposition, is apparently the Olympics or the 2006 Commonwealth Games shadow Minister for Small Business and when funding to the Queensland Academy of Industry, and the member for Whitsunday, Mrs Sport has been cut by $400,000? And how Bird, is apparently the shadow Minister for does this massive cut in funding help cater for Tourism. For three weeks I have waited for Queensland's growing demand for sporting them to raise this issue with me. For three facilities when, by the Minister's own weeks I have sat here thinking, "Well, at least admission, his department has over $130m those two members, on behalf of the industry, worth of funding applications on its books? 2902 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

Mr VEIVERS: That is such a complex of good news concerns the Redcliffe Hospital. question. It comprises about seven parts. I am For Redcliffe Hospital there is $600,000 extra only too happy to answer the member's so that they can open the two theatres that question on notice. were closed under Labor. So under this Government, the Redcliffe Hospital will go from four theatres, plus two of them empty, to six Hospital Funding theatres, with all of them operating. I would Mr J. N. GOSS: I ask the Minister for have thought that members opposite would Health: would he please inform the House of be grateful for that. Aren't they lucky that we any new funding initiatives for key Queensland are fixing up the deficiencies in the unfunded hospitals? portions at those hospitals? Mr HORAN: Once again, there is more The good news continues. At the Gold good news and more exciting news for Coast Hospital, another $600,000 has been hospitals throughout Queensland as the allocated to open a high-dependency unit, so Queensland coalition Government gets back that the Gold Coast Hospital can now have to basics and starts bringing back some real high-dependency beds to back up the service. One of the serious problems we have intensive care beds in that particular unit. That experienced in recent years has been a is just another example of what is being Commonwealth funding agreement which undertaken in our hospitals. provided some millions of dollars for the Finally, another $600,000 is being contracting out of public patients to private provided to the Nambour Hospital in order to hospitals. The previous Labor Government meet the increased and growing demand. I was able to do nothing about this, nor was the have some more good news for north previous Federal Government. However, Queensland, which we will be releasing very through negotiations, we now have verbal shortly. agreement that the remaining amount of money in that fund, which is some $500,000 I believe that the most important thing to $700,000, can be used for public patients. has been the breakthrough in negotiations That was always logical and sensible. It can be with the Commonwealth Government, so that used for public patients in public hospitals. we can use that Commonwealth money for public patients in our own public hospitals What we are going to do with that money without having to contract them out to private is attack the ophthalmology waiting lists in hospitals. That is going to mean a major Queensland, in other words, in relation to eye attack on the eye surgery waiting lists in surgery, particularly in Townsville in north Queensland, particularly in Townsville and on Queensland and on the Gold Coast, where the Gold Coast, where the waiting lists have there are extremely long waiting lists. I would been in the order of years. This will make a like to express my appreciation for the support huge difference to our Surgery on Time plan. that has been offered to us by the AMA and It will reduce the time that people wait for eye the Royal College of Ophthalmologists in surgery and will certainly make a major recruiting people to those positions where difference to the health of Queenslanders. required. In other good news for Queensland Mr SPEAKER: Order! The time for Health—due to the deficiencies of the Budget questions has expired. applied to the Princess Alexandra Hospital, staff had been unable to use some four APPROPRIATION (PARLIAMENT) BILL anaesthetic sessions per week at that hospital. (No. 2) Because of the Budget that we have brought down and the improved funding for the APPROPRIATION BILL (No. 2) Princess Alexandra Hospital, they are Second Reading (Cognate Debate) immediately moving to reopen those four Debate resumed from 12 September (see anaesthetic sessions. That means that every p. 2871). single operating theatre in the Princess Alexandra Hospital will now be operating every Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich) day of the week. That is a real example of the (10.30 a.m.): In this cognate debate we have sorts of things we are doing—— two Appropriation Bills before us. We have the appropriation for the Parliament itself, and in Mr Hollis: What about the staff at the that Bill we find that there is an appropriation Redcliffe Hospital? provision for some $39.1m for 1996-97. That Mr HORAN: I take that interjection from is an increase, Mr Speaker, of which I am sure the member for Redcliffe, because the next bit you are delighted. It is a 10.4 per cent 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2903 increase in your current budget and is certainly the Treasurer, I will do just that with respect to an improvement for the Parliament in outlays growth patterns of the Queensland economy from the $37.3m expended during 1995-96. and also to employment data. In the Overall we see a 4.8 per cent increase for the September quarter of 1995, Queensland's Parliament in the Budget that is before the economy recorded a 0.7 per cent growth; House. December 1995 again showed a 0.7 per cent The other Bill before us, of course, is the growth; and March 1996 showed a 0.6 per general appropriation, which reveals what a cent growth. In Government we recognised number of people have said already this week, that the Queensland economy was going that is, that it is a big-spending Budget that through one of those flatter periods. We were has been brought down by the coalition this told by the Treasurer that, with the coming to year. We see outlays increasing in real terms, office of the coalition, that flat period in the with total expenditure from the Consolidated economy would be rapidly turned around. Yet, Fund estimated at $13.5 billion. In the if we are to reach the Budget figure that has Appropriation Bill, we find that the total been delivered by the Treasurer, one can only appropriation from all funds will exceed $20 conclude that the quarterly growth figure when billion in 1996-97 and that it makes provision it is announced for the June quarter will show for some $8.7 billion of expenditure in 1997- even more modest growth, 0.2 per cent under 98. the first quarterly figure that the coalition can properly call its own: all told, 2.2 per cent Having said all that, it is important that we growth in 1995-96 for the Queensland recognise that the Budget should not merely economy. be an accounting exercise. The Budget is an I contrast that with the very much more important fiscal tool to enable us to shape and bullish figure which the Treasury had forecast better manage the economy. The Budget is for economic growth in the State for the year an important fiscal tool that allows us to just gone. In that context, I think we need to smooth the business cycle and deliver public look at the figure that has been announced by goods and services to the community. The the Deputy Premier and Treasurer as similarly Budget also provides us with a very important suspect. In her speech, the Treasurer has mechanism whereby Government can forecast 4 per cent growth for the economy in redistribute income and wealth, hopefully to the current fiscal year, claiming that growth in achieve a more just and equitable society. Queensland will outstrip the figure for Australia This Budget, like all Budgets, should be as whole. Similarly bullish forecasts have been judged against those criteria. given for the years through to the turn of the We must first address an important century. question: how appropriate is this Budget for The low growth pattern of 1995-96 shows the economic climate in which Queensland no sign of abating. In fact, if we look at the finds itself? The Budget forecasts that were initiatives that have been taken by this made by the Treasurer are hardly optimistic. coalition Government, we will see that they They do not indicate that, in the view of this have actually contributed to the prolongation Government, the Queensland economy will of that slow economic growth in the boom in 1996-97. I think that is a real tragedy, Queensland economy. We see little prospect because this Government claimed that it of improvement in the housing and would restore—to use its words— construction industry. When we look at Queensland's position as the economic growth business investment, the Budget forecast for generator of Australia. If we look at the pattern Queensland delivered by the Treasurer of the Queensland economy and how it has indicated business investment growing by 9 performed over the five years through to per cent. What this Treasurer failed to add was March 1996, we find that the Queensland that the figure for Australia as a whole for this economy was the economic powerhouse of fiscal year was business investment rising by the country. Under Labor, the Queensland 14 per cent. So we have that continued economy grew at an average of 4.7 per cent subdued level of activity in the Queensland per annum. That was the best economic economy and, therefore, we can have no growth in Australia. It was a full two confidence that the Treasurer's projections for percentage points per annum above the growth will, in fact, be delivered. national average. We are seeing an economy that is in If we look at 1995-96, we see a much difficulty. If we examine the Budget in terms of more subdued Queensland economy. The job creation, we see further evidence that Treasurer likes quoting trend statistics when there are real problems that this Government giving economic data and so, in deference to has not only failed to address but has also 2904 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 contributed to in terms of the state of that even this Treasurer, who has such Queensland's economy. In the five years to difficulty with concepts such as surpluses and February 1996 under Labor, 45,000 jobs a deficits and who has difficulties with plus signs year, each and every year, were being and minus signs, should realise that, under generated. This Budget plans to achieve only the coalition in Queensland, the trend in the same average level of job creation in unemployment is clearly going up, not down. Queensland in 1996-97; yet, in the context of Nothing in this Budget arrests that trend. a much larger economy with a much larger On the Treasurer's own admission, over population base, it will achieve only the levels this 12-month period, the unemployment rate achieved by Labor. Consequently, we are will remain static. Consequently, the underlying seeing a further and real decline in factors generating the unemployment rate will employment generation in the Queensland not be addressed and will not be turned economy in this financial year. around. Despite this big-spending coalition The Budget forecasts employment growth Budget, we should expect the trend to be of only 2.5 per cent. Last year, in subdued maintained and unemployment to be on the economic activity, Queensland's employment rise. grew by 2.8 per cent—significantly in excess of the Budget projection brought down by the If in that context the Budget does not Treasurer on Tuesday. The Budget forecast address one of the fundamental problems in unemployment rate is averaging 9.3 per cent; the Queensland economy, we should perhaps yet, last year, the average unemployment rate look to see whether the Budget addresses for Queensland in that subdued economic some of the features that were outlined by the environment was 9.3 per cent. This Budget, Treasurer as allegedly being important when which talks so much about generating she brought down her definitive address on 19 additional activity in the Queensland economy, March this year at a Conservative Club is not going to deliver more jobs; it is not going luncheon. At that time, the Treasurer stated to deliver a real reduction in unemployment in that her intention for the coalition was to Queensland. In fact, on the basis of "restore Queensland to its position as the unemployment data that were released engine room of national economic growth." yesterday by the Australian Bureau of The economic data to which I have just Statistics, which showed an unemployment referred shows clearly that already she has figure rising in Queensland to 9.8 per cent—up dishonoured that promise. It is another from 9 per cent—we see that the fundamental deception, another element in the whole fabric problem in the Queensland labour market with of dishonesty and deceit which has become respect to employment generation is getting the hallmark of this Government. worse, not better. In terms of the Budget framework, what As I said, these days the Treasurer likes else did the Treasurer say at that luncheon in to quote trend figures. I guess if she were to March during the halcyon days of the coalition quote the trend figure and not the seasonally Government? She claimed that for 1995-96 adjusted figure for unemployment then, we would see a modest Budget surplus in the certainly, she could obtain a lower Consolidated Fund of around $2m to $3m. unemployment figure. What the Treasurer However, she went on to say that she had does not seem to understand is that that concerns that receipts over the year would unemployment figure is not just a statistic; exceed expenditure from the Consolidated rather it is a symbolic representation of the Fund of the order of $48m. She then went tremendous amount of hardship and misery in one step further: she claimed that there were the Queensland community. one-off funding sources used which, when added to the $48m, revealed an underlying Let us have a look at the Treasurer's deficit—and this is the start of the cult of the trend figure. Let us have a look at what is underlying deficit—of $185m. Clearly, that was happening in unemployment. When this the start of a determined campaign to coalition Government came to office, in the denigrate the fiscal legacy of Labor and to first full month in which it was in office the denigrate the sound economic management unemployment trend figure for Queensland which was the hallmark of the handling of the was 9.1 per cent. The following month, 9.1 per Queensland economy by former State Labor cent was again recorded as the trend Governments. unemployment rate in Queensland. In May, the trend figure was 9.2 per cent. In June, the Over the following weeks and months, we trend figure was 9.3 per cent. In July, the trend heard the underlying deficit figure being figure was again 9.3 per cent and for August, bandied around and increased in the that trend figure was 9.4 per cent. I believe coalition's endeavour to try to undermine the 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2905 confidence that the people of Queensland to mislead the community regarding the had in the economic credentials of the former position of the Budget in GFS terms—which Labor Government. Let us look at those again has been shown to be extraordinarily claims by the Treasurer and see whether they sound by the documents published not only have been borne out over the last seven by this State but also by the Commonwealth— months. It is true Labor started the 1995-96 this desperate Treasurer and this desperate fiscal year with money in the bank. Government employed another tactic to try to Notwithstanding a record $3.6 billion Capital further their political agenda. They rolled out a Works Program—and I might say a Capital Commission of Audit report which would give Works Program of a magnitude which was them a different figure based on a different wholly appropriate to deliver improved services means of collecting the data and keeping the as well as stimulate the State's economy and accounts. The Treasurer could not compare create jobs—at the end of the last fiscal year apples with apples and oranges with oranges there was still money in the bank for the to get the outcome that she wanted, so this coalition Government. In 1994-95, Labor Treasurer decided to compare apples with delivered an underlying surplus in the State's oranges and try to confuse the issue even accounts of $1.23 billion. At the time the further. So we saw the Commission of Audit Treasurer launched this attack on Labor's report. financial record in March, the very time this It was incidental that the Commission of new Treasurer was talking about an underlying Audit report should use the famous graph on deficit in the Budget, the figures that were the front cover to seek to try to undermine being published by her department were further the financial position that was left by revealing not an underlying deficit but an the former Labor Government. We heard that, underlying surplus in the State's accounts of in in the 1995-96 accounts, on an accrual basis excess of $1 billion. there was a $337m operating deficit and that I refer the Treasurer to her own Budget the Treasurer would have to bring down strong papers—table A.12 on page 142 of Budget medicine in the State Budget to arrest this Paper No. 2. That table reveals that the inexorable decline. However, on Tuesday in underlying surplus delivered in the State's the Treasurer's Budget Speech, what did she accounts for 1995-96 was, in fact, $1.354 say? I will use the Treasurer's own words and billion. So much for the Treasurer's underlying throw them back in her face. On page 4 of the deficit! The underlying surplus of $1.354 billion Treasurer's Budget Speech she states— was in line with the projections that the "In terms of the preferred budget Opposition made repeatedly in response to measure of the Commission of Audit, the the Treasurer's claim that there was an final result for 1995-96 is an operating underlying deficit in the Queensland Budget. surplus in accrual terms of $48m." Why would the Deputy Premier and It is a shame that this is not a game of Treasurer run around this State and this nation baseball—strike one, Treasurer, a cash base trying to talk down Queensland's economic surplus; strike two, Treasurer, a GFS performance? underlying surplus; and strike three, Treasurer, Mr Ardill: Even in Japan. a surplus on the Government's favoured accrual accounting basis. Three strikes and Mr HAMILL: I take the honourable you're out! One wonders about the member's interjection. Even in Japan! Why competence of this Treasurer, who got it so would the Treasurer of this State be so wrong on every basis of accounting. irresponsible, at a time when we all knew that the economy needed a boost and not to be Mr Ardill: It doesn't say much for the talked down, try to destroy confidence in the Committee of Audit. Queensland economy? It was all a political Mr HAMILL: It does not say much strategy to seek to discredit Labor's record and about the Commission of Audit. It says even at the same time enable the coalition more about the lack of capacity of the Government to dishonour key parts of its Treasurer to be honest and truthful about the platform in relation to revenue raising and to state of the Queensland Budget. It speaks dishonour key parts of its platform in relation to volumes about the lack of capacity of the a number of its election promises. Treasurer to handle the very important job of So, not content with trying to run the managing the State's economy. furphy about underlying deficits in cash terms, Let us return to a second point made in which were clearly disproved by the Treasurer's the Treasurer's speech in March about own words and her department's own allegations of one-off expenditures under publications, and not content with clearly trying Labor from one-off sources of funding and the 2906 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 suggestion that this was a measure of the is $12.5m the lesser each year for the financial irresponsibility of the former Labor contribution which it will make to the Sunshine Government. Allow me to again quote the Motorway debt. words of the Treasurer in the Budget Speech The Government does not deal with at page 11. In referring to certain capital works Queenslanders fairly and equitably. Whilst the spending, the Treasurer states— Treasurer's constituents can be so benefited "This one-off boost to infrastructure by the finding of such large sums of money, spending will be funded entirely from one- the people who live in the eastern suburbs of off sources. The consistent use of one-off Brisbane, because there will be a by-election funds only for one-off spending is now there in a few weeks, will receive a one-off 20c enshrined as a basic principle of Coalition break, or a two litres of oil break, in the new economic strategy." tax regime of the Treasurer through a What an acrobatic little Treasurer we have, to reduction in the tolls on the Gateway Bridge. Is be able to do such backflips in the space of it not a shame that we could not have a by- but a few months. One-off spending was election near my electorate or that of my allegedly a no-no in March, but one-off colleague the member for Ipswich West, spending is the paragon of economic because there is no relief at all for the people responsibility in the Budget that the Treasurer of Ipswich and Logan who use the Logan brings down in September. Motorway. I have concerns about the position taken In the Treasurer's speech in March, she by the Treasurer in relation to this and a range launched another little policy initiative, which of other matters. My concern is that the one- was her celebrated freeze—the temporary off funding sources that are being used by the freeze that she placed on all initiatives of the previous Government while they reviewed the Treasurer in her one-off spending spree are Budget. The Treasurer went on to attack the one-off funding sources indeed, because they former Labor Government in extraordinary are funding sources which cannot be renewed terms. Allow me again to use the Treasurer's as the Treasurer sprays the funds up against own words, because they make such a the wall—— wonderful weapon for the Opposition to use in Mr Ardill: Flogging off the silver. attacking the performance of this Government. Mr HAMILL: Flogging the silver and Does the Treasurer remember these words— flogging off income-generating funds that were "In capital works, year after year, the in trust funds, such as the Queensland former Government failed to spend the Infrastructure Financing Fund and the funds it allocated. The Coalition will make proceeds of the sale of the State gas pipeline. sure that the entire capital works budget There is no better example of this squandering each year is in fact spent." of the financial legacy of Labor than in the Weren't they prophetic words! self-indulgence of the Treasurer in taking $83m of funds from the proceeds of the sale This is a clear example of how a of Queensland Nickel and spraying them statement of intent and policy delivered in against the wall up in her own backyard on the March was not delivered three months later. Sunshine Motorway. Under the Treasurer and the Government, a massive amount of capital works was, in fact, Mr Ardill: How can that be a one-off delayed or abandoned altogether. Projects when it is a $200m debt and she is paying off worth over $400m were not delivered in a $83m? timely fashion by the coalition Government. Mr HAMILL: In fact, the Treasurer told The Capital Works Program brought down by us that removing the tolls from the Sunshine the former Labor Government totalled some Motorway and removing the income stream $3.6 billion. It was forecast as generating would cost only $4m a year. I remember 49,817 additional jobs. Yet, the true enormity hearing that from the Treasurer time and time of the irresponsible behaviour of this again. We now find that not only do we spend Government can be seen in the Government's over $83m in one hit, but there will also be own Budget papers. Budget Paper No. 2 another $12.5m taken from the roads program acknowledges the massive carryovers of each and every year for the next 20 years to capital budgets unexpended by the coalition pay for that particular election promise made Government in 1995-96. by the coalition. My good friend, the Minister I remind the Treasurer that these were for Transport, who spoke so highly of me capital works that were necessary not only for earlier today, comes in and wiggles his head enhancing service delivery—delivering the "No", but he knows full well that the his budget schools, the police stations, the hospitals and 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2907 so on—for the people of Queensland but they a Budget which did not deliver any new taxes were also projects which were designed to or tax increases. The Treasurer's credibility is in generate employment and to give the tatters. economy the kick along which it needed. Then we saw the Treasurer's attempt to Particular among the capital works abandoned find an alibi. Again, in the Budget Speech we was the former Government's Accelerated heard the claim that these tax increases were Capital Works Program, a $745m program necessary to fix a funding shortfall from the announced at the end of last year. When we Commonwealth. As recently as Tuesday, the saw what was happening in the labour market, Treasurer claimed again that the we moved responsibly to address the need to Commonwealth's alleged cuts to Queensland generate employment growth in the economy. had cost the Budget $250m. That is yet What did the Government do? It chopped it another example of the deceptive politicking off altogether, and with it the Government peddled by the Premier and Treasurer on the abandoned the hopes of 2,600 people of Queensland. The Government is Queenslanders to get jobs. That is the legacy deceptive and dishonest. The coalition of the irresponsibility of the Government. That Government has been about trying to set in is the legacy of the Government's freeze. place circumstances such that, in bringing When we look at the Budget brought down its Budget, it could break willy-nilly its down by the Treasurer, sure, a lot of money is promises in relation to taxation and a number allocated for capital works but a significant part of spending initiatives. of it is money that should have already been Let us have a look at the Premiers spent on services and works which were Conference and the so-called cuts to already needed in the community. However, Queensland. The Government's Commission the Treasurer's Capital Works Program will of Audit sought to quantify the cut at $184m. deliver 8,405 fewer jobs than the Capital That consisted of a $114m contribution this Works Program and Accelerated Capital year to Mr Costello, a $60m cut to specific Works Program brought down by the former purpose payments to Queensland from the Labor Government. Commonwealth, and a $10m cut whereby If that is not enough, let us see how the sales tax exemptions were removed for certain Treasurer delivers on some of her other State Government vehicles. On 21 August, promises. The other big promise made in that the day after the Federal Budget came down, wonderful speech in March—a speech which the Treasurer rushed out with a revelation. Mrs will haunt the Treasurer—was to keep taxes Sheldon said that Queensland faced cuts of low. She went out, as is her want, in a boastful up to $250m in Commonwealth funds, well manner and said, "Not only will there be no above the $190m figure anticipated. She went new taxes in the State Budget, but there will on to say that included in the $250m in cuts not be any tax increases in the State Budget was an unexpected extra cut of $20m in either." What a joke! The trouble is that financial assistance grants and $40m in cuts nobody is laughing. They are certainly not to the Building Better Cities Program. laughing with the Treasurer; they might be Unexpected? Unexpected my fat aunt! The laughing at her. They are not laughing, facts are that, as part of its election platform, because she has betrayed their trust again in the coalition said that it would abolish the what was a key policy platform of the coalition. Building Better Cities Program. So much for What a hide the Treasurer has to state, at unexpected cuts to the State Budget! page 29 of her Budget Speech— In that press release the Treasurer further "Mr Speaker, I am proud to say that inflated the figure. First, it was $184m, then in this Budget there are no new taxes." $190m, and then $250m. The Treasurer is trying to spread confusion and lay the Only three pages before she delivered those groundwork in place such that she can memorable lines, she introduced national park dishonour her commitments to the user fees and increased camping fees. She Queensland public. The Treasurer's own has introduced environmental franchise fees, Budget papers show what a fraud she is. For that is, the tyre tax and the oil tax. She has Commonwealth payments to the Consolidated increased fees for TAFE. She has increased Fund for 1996-97, we see a figure of $5.068 motor vehicle registration charges, on top of billion. That is an increase—a plus sign, not a the $66.50 increase brought down on 1 July minus sign—of $263.4m, or 5.5 per cent. That on compulsory third-party premiums. She has is more than enough to cope with inflation and increased the tobacco licence fee and, just for to accommodate population growth as well. If good measure, she has increased the bank we delve a little further into the Budget papers, account debits tax. That is not a bad effort for we certainly see a reduction in funds from the 2908 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

Commonwealth into the trust funds, but overall When they buy their groceries and fuel and the total Commonwealth payments to when they go out to a restaurant, every time Queensland into the Consolidated Fund and they use that facility there will be some money the Trust Fund are $127m higher this year for the bill and some extra money for the than last year. That is the sort of cut I would Treasurer—the Treasurer who promised no not mind having every year—a cut which increases in taxes. They will remember, and delivers an extra $127m, or a 2.3 per cent we will not let them forget. increase. What about Queensland motorists? I However, the thing I most object to, apart have already said that my constituents have from the dishonesty which has surrounded had a $66.50 increase in their compulsory Commonwealth/State payments discussions third-party insurance. They do not benefit from this year, is the fact that the Treasurer took all any of the largess of the Treasurer when they of the money for Mr Costello from the public use the Logan Motorway. Not only that, that housing budget. The Treasurer ripped more $66.50 will go up to $70 because of the than $114m out of the budget which delivered Treasurer's increase in motor vehicle housing to the most disadvantaged people in registration charges, which she projects as the Queensland community. The Treasurer collecting an extra $37m this year. That is an shall forever wear the shame for that. increase of 8.2 per cent, and it is in the On Wednesday, the Government which Budget. has cried that its funds are so limited engaged What about the tobacco licensing fee? I in a major advertising blitz around am not a smoker; this one does not affect me. Queensland. Advertisements appeared in I happen to believe that anything we can do to newspapers all over the State about the back discourage people from smoking is a good to basics Budget. It is back to basics all thing. However, the basic dishonesty of this right—back to basic dishonesty. No other Budget is that in no way is the increase in element can better exemplify that than the tobacco tax about discouraging people from claim that there are no increases in average smoking. We all know that smoking is highly tax per person in the Budget. There is in fact a addictive, and that is why the Treasurer is real increase in State taxation in this Budget. banking on an extra $44m—almost $545m Total taxes and fees will increase by $183m in this year—from smokers. That is an increase this Budget. That is a 4.5 per cent increase. of 8.8 per cent, in spite of the fact that the That is a plus sign. That is greater than the Premier was in Mareeba only a few weeks ago rate of inflation. It is a real increase. But the promising with his hand across his heart that point which Government speakers seem to there would be no increase in the tobacco tax; miss is that not only is there a real increase in that he would honour his promises to the taxation revenues in this Budget but also the tobacco growers at Mareeba. They are very way in which the taxation burden falls is made angry about the deceit of this Government, even more inequitable under this Budget. and they are not going to forget it, either. Let us have a look at the tax increases Government speakers might say, "Oh, but that have generated such a windfall for this Labor in Government increased the tobacco Treasurer. The bank account debits tax tax." It sure did, but it had the basic honesty to increased. This year, receipts will increase by a make it a key plank in the 1992 election projected $31m, or 23.7 per cent. The campaign. We went out there to the people of Treasurer should ask all Queenslanders—and Queensland and said, "If you vote for us, we I have plenty in my electorate—who operate will increase the tobacco tax." What the an EFTPOS or credit card account in coalition did in 1995, and as recently as last conjunction with their cheque account whether month, was to say, "If you vote for us, we they think there is no increase in taxation in won't increase the tobacco tax." Yet this the Treasurer's Budget. They will tell the deceitful, dishonest Treasurer delivers the Treasurer something very different when they whammy for the tobacco industry and for receive their bank statements and find that smokers in the Budget. their contributions to the Treasury coffers have gone up by such a large amount this What about some of the other tax year—almost 25 per cent. In particular, promises of this Government? We were told account holders with Suncorp, who will find for over weeks and months that there would be the very first time that those fees will be listed cuts to payroll tax and cuts to land tax. We on their accounts, will be particularly grateful actually see payroll tax collections increasing for the policies of this Government. People will by $39m in the Budget—a 3.7 per cent remember the Treasurer every time they use increase—notwithstanding a lifting in the accounts with an EFTPOS/cheque facility. threshold level from the beginning of next 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2909 year. But is it not more interesting to note that, collections will go down $6.5m this year at the even though the Treasurer has said that same time as taxes that are paid by ordinary adjusting payroll tax threshold rates will create Queenslanders are going up. more jobs, her Budget Speech and every bit What is most telling is what is happening of economic data reveals that there will be no with stamp duty in the Treasurer's Budget. The reduction in unemployment in Queensland this answer is: not much is happening with stamp year. In fact, as I have already demonstrated, duty at all. Collections are actually projected as the trend in unemployment is up, not down. going down by half a million dollars. Stamp The same can be said for the Government's duty is one of the great economic barometers, tax regime. It is up, too, with ordinary because it is collected by the State Queenslanders paying more to live in this Government on things such as motor vehicle State. transfers, conveyancing transactions in relation While we are on the subject of taxes—the to land and so on. High rates of increase in absolute hypocrisy of this Treasurer can be stamp duty indicate a lot of activity going on in exemplified by her now well-known aversion to the economy. Without any adjustments to traffic offences and speeding fines at the stamp duty rates, what we find is that stamp same time as speed cameras are introduced duty collections at best will remain static and in this Budget, not for road safety measures at may indeed decline this year. That is further all but to generate another $15m in revenue clear evidence that the Treasurer does not from Queensland motorists. That means that have a clue when it comes to managing the 150,000 Queenslanders will not be given the Queensland economy and that her Budget is benefit that Mrs Sheldon's driver got and be doing nothing to foster economic growth in this waved on after exceeding the speed limit. State. Rather, 150,000 Queenslanders will be asked I guess the only other people who can be to pay up to boost revenue for the State pleased about some declining contribution to Budget. They will pay up $15m this year, and revenue are those who are paying rentals on they will pay up $40m in a full year. That is a Crown property. We actually see a reduction in lot of people who are going to remember the collections in Crown rentals this year. If a different treatment that is meted out under this person happens to be, presumably, someone Government according to whether a person is in the primary sector on Crown property or if a a friend of the Government or whether a person happens to be a holder of person just happens to be an ordinary developmental land that attracts land tax, Queenslander going about their day-to-day sure, such a person will get some tax breaks. business. But most Queenslanders are not in that Again in this context, we have the category. Most Queenslanders just go about justification of these tax increases—the their day-to-day lives—they use their cheque increase in the debits tax, the increase in account and EFTPOS; they go about their tobacco licensing. It is claimed in Budget day-to-day lives driving their car; they go about Paper No. 2 at page 39 that these increases their day-to-day lives putting tyres on their cars are to offset the cuts from the Commonwealth. and buying oil for various purposes; they like Which cuts? We have already found that the to visit our national parks and they like to go Commonwealth did not actually cut camping there. That is what happens to expenditure to Queensland. In fact, we have ordinary Queenslanders. That is what their an increased Commonwealth expenditure. So lives are about, and it is those ordinary again we have another example of this Queenslanders that the Treasurer hits and hits Treasurer's deceit and duplicity in claiming one and hits again as she delivers a tax burden thing and doing the other—in turning minus which is unfair upon ordinary Queensland. signs into plus signs; in claiming that surpluses are really deficits. Mr Ardill: Isn't 25 per cent of the land tax collected from Surfers Paradise and the But there is another part of this Budget Sunshine Coast? which demands close attention as well. I refer to the other ways in which this Government is Mr HAMILL: I suppose that the tightening the screws to generate additional Sunshine Coast or Caloundra got so much revenue. I said that the Government was that the Treasurer had to deliver a bit to the delivering on payroll tax reductions by Premier in Surfers Paradise as well. They are increasing payroll tax collections. We see that about the only two localities that benefit under the $20m promised each year to the property this regime. industry was not delivered, either—so even Let us look a bit further at the finer print of when the Government promised a tax cut, it this Budget when it comes to income. The could not deliver it—and that land tax State Government is tightening the screws on 2910 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 the public sector generally. If we look at The deception and the dishonesty Budget Paper No. 2, we find that the continues. The Treasurer claims to justify Government is actually reaping a windfall on these tax increases by cuts to Commonwealth the backs of all those Queenslanders who did revenue, yet the Treasurer salts away $259m not get a job because it did not spend the in the Treasurer's advance. She cuts programs money allocated to the Capital Works Program to deliver training to the unemployed and she last year. We see that interest received by stashes away the money she makes from that Government this year will be up $77m. A into her Treasury slush fund. Let me do the significant part of that will be on the back of figures so that honourable members can those unexpended balances that I referred to understand the enormity of what she is doing. earlier. There is a 12 per cent increase in She increased the Treasurer's advance in the revenue to the State through interest this year, order of about $160m this year, yet she up to $716.4m. extracts the $114m she is going to pay back As to dividends—there is a swingeing to the Commonwealth out of public housing. increase in the amount of dividends that are Alternatively, the amount of extra money that being extracted from public enterprises this she is salting away—for whatever reason we year. They are up in excess of 100 per would love to know—is in excess of all the cent—from $351m last year to $699.2m this additional increases in taxation in fees and year. As to tax equivalents paid by State fines that she is levying on the Queensland enterprises—their contribution is up from people. $47.3m last year to $162.5m this year—a 41 In other words, if she was not deliberately per cent increase. Property rents—mostly salting money away in the Treasurer's gaming machine rents—are up 11.4 per cent advance, in the Treasurer's slush fund, she to $76.3m this year. Add all that together, and would not have to increase bank accounts what we see is the other very disturbing aspect debits tax at all, she would not have to of this Budget. Not only is it big taxing on the increase motor vehicle registration charges at backs of ordinary Queenslanders but it is also all, she would not have to increase tobacco big taxing—a very taxing Budget from a very tax at all and she would not have to introduce taxing Treasurer—on the backs of the new taxes on oil and tyres at all. There is more Government corporations and Government than enough money there to more than cover activity. the revenue increase. The Treasurer cannot have it both ways. She cannot claim Who is paying these dividends? I guess Commonwealth cuts to increase taxes when ordinary Queenslanders are again, through there are no Commonwealth cuts, and she the prices which are charged by Suncorp, cannot justify cuts to important employment QIDC, the electricity industry, the port and training and public housing programs authorities and Queensland Rail for the when she has the money sitting in her back services that are provided. The Government is pocket. actually taking public enterprises such as Suncorp—and particularly Suncorp, which it is The other point I would like to make about so keen to flog off—the electricity industry, that this Budget is that so much of the Budget is, AUSTA and the transmission and supply strategy of this Government flies in the face of industry, and Queensland Rail and it is the Treasurer's own Commission of Audit. I squeezing them. The Government has them refer the Treasurer to page 130 of the in the vice and it is squeezing them. It is Commission of Audit report where making those entities bleed by way of massive Commissioner FitzGerald and the other increases in dividend payments and tax members of the commission warn this equivalent payments to the Budget. Out of Government that the State should not rely on this whole area of property income, the payroll tax and gaming and tobacco tax to Treasurer is actually bleeding half a billion meet revenue needs. The Commission of Audit suggests very strongly indeed that extra dollars this year. This was the shadow gaming and tobacco tax would be a declining Treasurer who, last year, was railing against dividend payments which were only half of source of revenue, yet the Treasurer has gone what she is extracting from public sector out to increase collections in both of those corporations this year. Last year, the Treasurer areas. The Commission of Audit goes on to was claiming that the Labor Government, by warn the Government even further in relation to payroll tax. It says that payroll tax is a taking dividends worth $350m, was crippling declining source of revenue as well in relative the capacity of those bodies to deliver services terms. It can be seen in the Budget that, even to the community. It does not stop her with delivering payroll tax concessions, there increasing their tax bill 100 per cent. will be an increase, albeit a small one. The tax 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2911 falls on only 5 per cent of employers in the became a member of Parliament, she was a State. That is not the 5 per cent of employers physiotherapist, and I know that the Leader of who are represented in the major growth areas the Opposition has pointed out that this in the Queensland economy. Many of those physiotherapist has massaged the figures a lot are small employers who go nowhere near since she became Treasurer. I would remind paying $1 in payroll tax. Also, it is in the slower the physiotherapist of what I thought was a wages growth area of the economy. major principle in the way in which What FitzGerald warned in the audit physiotherapists undertook their profession. If report was that, by continuing to increase the a person came to a physiotherapist after thresholds and so on, the Treasurer effectively perhaps an accident and that person's muscle undermined the efficacy of payroll tax itself, had deteriorated, a physiotherapist would not yet she flies in the face of the audit report's embark upon an extraordinarily rigorous and clear recommendations on that point, as exacting program of exercises for fear that it indeed she has flown in the face of a very would do more damage than good. A good strong recommendation in the audit report that physiotherapist would embark upon a program appeared at page 169. In the report, of steady improvement through exercise to FitzGerald makes this point— restore the muscle fibre and the muscle tone. What this Treasurer has done, though, with "Dividends and tax equivalents paid the Queensland economy is allowed its by state trading enterprises contributed employment generating muscles to decline $358 million or six per cent of the State's and to wane. She did it deliberately through own-source revenue in 1994-95." her own political agenda by cutting and In this Budget that the Treasurer has brought freezing capital works, by denying the capacity down, tax equivalents and dividends from of the employment generating factors within public trading enterprises will contribute the economy and then, after denying those $861.5m in 1996—over double the figure that funds, she turns around and throws the was quoted only two years ago in the audit carryovers into this Budget with a big bang report figure, and it will now contribute over 10 approach, an exacting approach, to try then to per cent of State sourced income or State engender growth in the economy which she sourced revenue that the Treasurer will extract admits is not going to work. out of the Government trading enterprises by The economy requires careful and way of tax equivalents and dividend sensitive nurturing. As I said at the outset, a payments. What did Commissioner FitzGerald responsible Budget should seek to smooth the say about that? Page 169 of the Commission business cycle. A responsible Budget should of Audit states— apply counter-cyclical strategies to lift the "Dividends and tax equivalents from economy at a time when the economy is public trading enterprises should be set stagnating. When in Government, Labor was on a commercial basis and should not be committed to that approach. When in relied upon as a revenue source for the Government, Labor used the Budget bulk of current State Government responsibly to generate economic activity services." when it was needed and to moderate it when The Treasurer is becoming increasingly the economy was overheating. When in dependent on the money that she can Government, Labor did not squander the squeeze out of Government trading family silver to do that. We did not bleed the corporations by way of dividends. There is a public sector dry and raid trust fund balances 100 per cent increase this year in the and public sector corporations to balance the collection from dividends. The Treasurer is Budget. When we return to Government, doing that to prop up her other expenditure. Labor will not follow the reckless path of this She is again flying in the face of the clear Treasurer. We will manage the Budget recommendations of FitzGerald. She is responsibly and we will use capital works ignoring the clear things that he said should appropriately to generate activity in the be done to try to address some fundamental Queensland economy. Our No. 1 priority will structural issues in the Queensland Budget. be delivering jobs, jobs and more jobs for What should be done? This Government Queensland, and we will not flog off the family should abandon its approach to economic silver in the process. management which is all about boom and Mr BARTON (Waterford) (11.29 a.m.): bust and it should abandon the approach that This Budget fails to deliver in the crucial area the Treasurer has adopted in relation to the of law and order. It demonstrates that this management of the State's economy over the Government is all about rhetoric. It is very past seven months. Before this Treasurer tough on words, but it is very wimpish when it 2912 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 comes to delivery. It ran very hard on law and It sounded good when the Minister order in the July 1995 election campaign and conned the people in the July 1995 election the Mundingburra by-election earlier this year. and the February by-election, but he has This Government conned the voters of broken that promise. This Police budget is one Queensland. In the run-up to the July election of the biggest broken promises of this last year, the Attorney-General ran Denver's Government's Budget. The Police Minister Travelling Law and Order Sideshow all over himself, even in his documentation, and the Queensland. But his sideshow paled into Treasurer in her documentation admit that the insignificance compared to the actions of the Police budget has increased by only 7.3 per Minister for Police and Corrective Services in cent overall. Labor's last Budget increased the his efforts in the Mundingburra by-election. Police budget by 7.5 per cent. Even by their The Police Minister and his eyes and own admission, they have failed to provide ears, Matt Heery, and his chief adviser, Russell increases in police expenditure larger than Grenning, certainly took action to push law what was delivered in the last Labor Budget. and order to the forefront by doing a dirty, The Police budget is also flawed in secret deal with a small number of the another way. It may not be a genuine 7.3 per membership of the Queensland Police Union's cent increase, because Racing is now in the leadership—and I stress that it was just a few; Police budget and the Budget papers are so certainly not the majority—to organise a tough, deceptive that it is not possible to tell if this more-police campaign by that union which was transfer of the Racing Division's budget makes run back to back with the more-police up part of that increase of 7.3 per cent—a campaign of the so-called Concerned Citizens Racing budget that formed part of a different for Mundingburra, which was nothing more department's budget in 1995-96. than a covert campaign run by the National Mr Johnson: Why don't you go and ask Party's Matt Heery and his friends in the Mr Cooper? National Party's Alice River branch—a Mr BARTON: I assure the Minister for campaign in which the star was none other Transport that I will certainly be raising that in than the Police Minister himself who, of Estimates Committee B next Wednesday. course, is subsequently starring in another However, I make the point that the Budget very public event as a result of his actions and papers are so deceptive that it is impossible to the actions of others in Mundingburra, an tell on reading them whether it is the case that event in which the curtain, and possibly the that would be pursued. axe, is yet to fall. This is a Budget that also appears to be a This Minister talked tough on law and sleight of hand in the Police Service's capital order, promised more police to everybody who expenditure, because many of these projects would listen, and yet, when given his chance were held up as part of the Treasurer's capital as part of the Government, on this very works freeze. Money for police capital works Budget fails miserably in the real test on projects, including some new necessary police whether he really is sincere about more police stations and watch-houses, was not and being tough on law and order issues. This proceeded with or had been deferred and held Minister claims an extra 139 police in his press over for the 1996-97 Budget. It is a really cute release, a figure that cannot be confirmed in trick: do not spend it; transfer the money and the Budget papers or in the Minister's the project to the next Budget, claim the Ministerial Program Statements. It simply does project and the expenditure commitment as not appear. It is a figure that is lower than your own, and then say you are delivering what would have been delivered by Labor had more than Labor, but do so with Labor it remained in office, because Labor was allocated funds. committed to delivering 175 additional This appears to be the case with operational police last financial year and a approximately $18m worth of capital further 175 operational police for 1996-97. expenditure in the Police budget alone. The Labor was delivering what it had promised on Government then hides it by providing the police—police numbers, I might add, that the information in a very unclear way in the Police Service itself asked for. This Police Program Statements. It does explain, of Minister engaged in a Dutch auction by course, why the Treasurer put on the capital promising more police than the numbers that works freeze, which was very damaging to the Police Service itself believed were business and jobs over the past seven necessary to do the job. But as we have seen, months. To add insult to injury, the the Minister made those promises to deliver Government also cancelled some of the more but is actually delivering less. projects committed to by Labor and 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2913 transferred those funds to lower priority But it can be determined that the Corporate projects in Liberal, National and Independent Services figures are the ones that are wrong electorates in a pork-barrelling exercise. by reference to the global information on all Mr Johnson interjected. subprograms on page 1-5. Mr BARTON: I say to the very noisy We the Parliament and the people of Minister for Transport: watch this space at Queensland are deprived of the detailed Wednesday's Estimates committee hearing information on the Police Service's Corporate because, by then, we will have thoroughly Services subprogram in these Budget identified precisely what has been done from documents. This makes any proper analysis of the deliberately confusing material in the the actual police numbers and other staff Program Statements. From what I am hearing employed by the Police Department from other shadow Ministers, including the impossible, particularly as Corporate Services member for Cook, the very same cheap is the third-largest subprogram and employs a political stunt is being pulled in their portfolio disproportionately large percentage of sworn areas as well. officers. This is an issue that certainly received some criticism in the Bingham report only in This confused position also exists on recent weeks. police numbers. The media also had the same problem in identifying the actual numbers of Not only are the Police Program additional police who were being provided by Statements deceptive but also they contain this Budget. Media reports on Budget day major errors. We are entitled to ask—and I from various journalists who had tried to find would suggest not only members of the the answer from studying the Budget papers Opposition but also every member of this and this Minister's Program Statements were Parliament—how did such a seriously flawed quoting figures ranging from 102 additional document get past the Minister, his staff and police to 152 and various figures in between. presumably the Treasurer and her Budget The only place where the Police Minister's Review Committee? We all know that this figure of 139 additional police is referred to is Police Minister has been distracted for many in the Minister's press statement on Budget months by events at the Carruthers inquiry day. And even that is not clear on whether and that he has a revolving-door policy on those 139 police are additional, real, extra personal ministerial staff, which may explain police officers or whether some have been why those serious flaws were missed. But this released to police duties by some of the new is simply not good enough. It constitutes the civilians who are to be employed. misleading of this Parliament and the people of Queensland by this Minister and this The Budget papers refer only to an extra Treasurer. It is further proof that this accident- 800 police over a three-year period. That is prone Minister is not up to the task and that additional police on the never-never. The the same applies to this Treasurer who is, Minister says that most of these will be presumably, finally responsible for all formal provided in the 1997-98 and 1998-99 Budget documents. Budgets, but can we believe him? This is the Minister who provided the grand total of an In the Parliament yesterday morning, I additional 12 extra police in the two years that flagged the fact that this document was badly he was the Police Minister and Premier in the flawed in relation to police numbers. I late 1980s. This is the Minister who has expected that, as a matter of urgency, the presided over a cancelled police recruit intake Police Minister would have had it checked and of 40 in July this year and has admitted provided the factual figures to this Parliament. publicly that the next two intakes will each be All members of Budget Estimates Committee cut by 20 from what had been planned at the B have certainly been disadvantaged Oxley Police Academy. because, in the absence of necessary factual Now, I may seem sceptical about the information, we had to frame our questions on information provided in these Budget notice before last night for them to be documents. I suggest to all members of this provided to the Minister. Parliament that I have good reason to be This State needs more police. This sceptical, because the Minister's Program Minister should be taking steps to meet his Statements contains major flaws—not just promises. In Townsville, grand promises were deception, but major mistakes. The figures made in the by-election earlier this year about quoted for the subprogram Corporate Services increases in police numbers—numbers on on page 1-33 are really the figures for the which not a single officer has been delivered. subprogram Operational Support, the figures In Proserpine, the numbers are so low that the for which are on page 1-27. They are identical. police station is frequently not attended by a 2914 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 police officer in the middle of the day. In call the "impact of savings initiatives Gladstone, a shortage of police—which has undertaken within the Commission's not yet been addressed; not a single extra Organisational Support program". What does officer has been provided for Gladstone—was that mean? There is a potential quadruple one of the two reasons given for the forced negative effect: firstly, if prisoner numbers resignation of the Goss Government. In increase at the same rate as in 1995-96—and Hervey Bay, 10 officers and a paddy wagon that is the most likely outcome; secondly, if the were promised by the Minister who said, "I'll revenue from the business program falls provide that by the click of my figures." It is again—and that is the most likely outcome; about time that he clicked his fingers. In thirdly, if the operating costs savings are not Logan/Beenleigh, at the heart of my achieved—and that is the most likely outcome; electorate, 150 additional police officers as a and fourthly, if even yet more prisoners arrive, minimum were promised immediately should or are held for longer periods due to the the coalition win Government. They are still promised tougher sentencing legislation. If all waiting, and the Police Union is talking very of that occurs, the Corrective Services budget openly about the fact that, unless those will blow out so far that we will be searching for officers are delivered very quickly, it will be it on the dark side of the moon. The Corrective taking unprecedented strike action. That has Services budget is highly irresponsible and been repeated in every other Queensland framed on a basis that no responsible person centre that received personal promises from could accept. this Police Minister. There has been no This Budget has similar problems for the change, apart from the one additional police juvenile detention centres. There are similar officer provided in one of the small, outlying concerns that show up in the Ministerial towns in the Keppel electorate. Program Statements for this area. Its budget As to Corrective Services—the 20.2 per is also largely capital works driven. Again, cent increase in its budget looks impressive unexpended funds for capital works committed until it is dissected. In reality, it is only 10.6 per by Labor in 1995 were frozen and are to be cent more than last year's actual figures. spent by this Government in this financial year. There is certainly to be a large increase in Total current outlays, which cover operating capital expenditure on new prisons in this costs including wages and salaries and non- State. As I pointed out some months ago, that labour operating costs, are estimated at expenditure is way above the amount that was $2.79m less than the 1995-96 actuals—even promised in the 1995 election campaign. after the allowance of $2.17m for the period However, even that figure does not take from 1 July to 15 August when the Corrective into account the anticipated increase in prison Services Commission took over from the populations as a result of promised tougher Department of Family Services. The 1995-96 sentencing, tougher juvenile justice laws and budget blew out by over $4.5m due to higher crime clear-up rates from the promised additional numbers. With the already-passed larger Police Service. Most importantly, some tougher juvenile justice laws, we must expect estimated operating costs for both correctional the numbers of juveniles detained to centres and the juvenile detention centres accelerate even further. In those have been cut in this Budget. In the Corrective circumstances, how can operating costs be Services Estimates, the basis for the reduced? estimated figures for secure custody prisons is We have already seen lock-downs used certainly very questionable. The additional as a management tool to save operating costs number of prisoners estimated is rather than meet the costs of additional staff. approximately only half the increase that That is an inhumane practice, particularly occurred last year. The Budget was blown for when we are talking about juveniles, and has 1995-96 due to additional prisoners above the already led to the serious injury of a young estimates. To drop this estimated figure is a man in the Cleveland Centre in Townsville and recipe for an even bigger costs blow-out during an industrial dispute at the John Oxley Youth this financial year. Detention Centre. Sadly, we are already At the same time, estimated revenue seeing the Corrective Services culture entering from the Prisons Business Program has been juvenile detention centres. The Budget increased compared with last year's revenue Estimates for juvenile centres are also targets; but last year's targets were not even irresponsible and unrealistic, and they will also met due to, as the footnotes in the Program blow out above what has been provided. One Statements state, "a more competitive market of the most important concerns is the use of place". The estimated lower costs are mainly that totally inappropriate method of lock- dependent on what the Program Statements downs, because, potentially, they will occur 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2915 very frequently as a cost cutting management breached the public trust in this way—in tool as the commission struggles to try to meet that way. I would never breach the public the paltry budget that it has been allowed. trust in that way." The budget for Police and Corrective Evidence that has since been provided to me Services is totally inappropriate. It does not raises more than considerable doubt about provide significant numbers of additional Mark Le Grand's denial and significantly raises police. Promises have been broken. It will the prospect that perjury may well have been provide new correctional facilities and juvenile committed in this regard. detention centres, but it will not provide Quite clearly, as I shall demonstrate to the adequate operating funds for them to be people of Queensland, there is evidence that properly operated. Next year, when we study he has betrayed the trust given to him by the the Budget outcomes, we will have either a people and should be made accountable to huge cost blow-out or very serious problems in the people for his actions. On 9 May 1994, Le prisons and juvenile detention centres as a Grand met a person in Brisbane at result of the inappropriate actions that will approximately 0800 hours and handed—— have been taken to try to contain costs. Mr BREDHAUER: I rise to a point of I am nearly out of time, but I point out order. This is an Appropriation debate. Mr that this is also a bad news Budget for my Speaker, I ask you to rule on the relevance of electorate. The major expenditure is on the this issue to the appropriations before the South East Freeway, where the Government is Parliament of Queensland. smashing down literally dozens of homes and disrupting the lifestyle of everyone else. The Mr SPEAKER: I will. We usually have a Logan Motorway crosses my electorate. The wide-ranging debate in relation to budgetary tolls remain. There has not been even a matters. I understand that the honourable miserable drop in that toll. member would be referring to the budget of the CJC. Time expired. Mr GRICE: Not the crux, but certainly Mr GRICE (Broadwater) (11.50 a.m.): the corollary of my speech is to do with the This morning it is my sad duty to inform the funding of the CJC in general and the Hanson House of very serious allegations concerning inquiry in particular, which I will get to. the Queensland Criminal Justice Commission. The allegations are of such a serious nature On 9 May 1994, Le Grand met a person that I believe that they clearly fall within the in Brisbane at approximately 0800 and terms of reference of the judicial inquiry handed over a sealed envelope. That foreshadowed by the Attorney-General. I seek envelope contained the highly secret their inclusion in the matters to be considered information outlining Operation Wallah. The by that inquiry. exact detail of what occurred on that day has been fully documented and is verifiable. It gives me no great pleasure at all to raise these issues in this place. However, I Prior to that meeting, a series of must, as the Queensland Police Service is telephone conversations involving the most subjugated in many ways to the Criminal senior CJC official, Mark Le Grand, determined how and when the handover of these highly Justice Commission. Also sadly, the sensitive files would take place. Le Grand's Parliamentary Criminal Justice Committee has alleged actions make a mockery of a claim he never been endowed with sufficient powers made before the Parliamentary Criminal and resources for a criminal investigation of Justice Committee on 24 April 1994, only 18 this magnitude. days before that. On 25 July 1995, Queensland's most Mr Palaszczuk: Where is your proof? powerful law enforcement official, the Director of the Criminal Justice Commission's Official Mr GRICE: Wait for it. Mark Le Grand Misconduct Division, Pierre Mark Le Grand, stated— denied before the Hanson inquiry that he was "The sustained leaking of important, the source of leaks surrounding the CJC's confidential information from the Operation Wallah investigation into former commission is enormously debilitating to Labor Senator Graham Richardson. He its operational effectiveness, and there stated— are other implications for the security of "The allegation is totally without witnesses and personnel." foundation, totally baseless, betrays Le Grand also told the parliamentary everything I have stood for the whole of committee that the leaking of various CJC my professional career. I have never reports into organised crime activities—— 2916 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

Mr BARTON: I rise to a point of order. I evidence in my possession has been think that it needs to be clarified whether the examined by sound, eminent legal quotes to which the member for Broadwater is practitioners. In respect to those who insist referring were quotes made in a public hearing that all this evidence be made public—— or whether they were quotes made to the Mr BREDHAUER: Mr Speaker, I draw PCJC in a private meeting. If the member is your attention again to the relevance of the quoting from confidential documents of the debate. For six minutes there has not been PCJC, then this member is in very serious one reference to any item of appropriation in breach of the privileges of this Parliament. I respect of the Bills before the House. This is was a member of that PCJC, and I would not a matter that is appropriate for discussion certainly like to see that matter clarified to be during the debate on the Appropriation Bills. sure that this member is not breaching the During the course of debates in this privilege of the Parliament. Parliament, there are other times during which Mr GRICE: Le Grand stated— these sorts of issues can be raised. Mr ". . . goes to the heart of our Speaker, I draw your attention to the Standing accountability, are destroying the Orders and I ask you to rule on the relevance credibility, the effectiveness and the of the debate. operational integrity of the CJC." Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no That is a quote from public documents. Le debate on it. I call the honourable member for Grand then added— Broadwater. Earlier, he did indicate that he will refer to budgetary matters pertaining to the "Someone has been selling us out, CJC, and I ask him to do that through his destroying us, eating us out internally." speech. Indeed, I would suggest that one need look Mr GRICE: I also assure this House that no further than Pierre Mark Le Grand. all the evidence in my possession has been Lest there be any doubt about the facts, examined by sound, eminent legal or claims that I have made unfounded practitioners. allegations under the cloak of parliamentary In response to those who insist that all privilege, I now seek leave to table a copy of this evidence be made public, I am confident an extract of one of the joint CJC and that, in time, all will be revealed. By now, Queensland Police Service secret files members of this place should know me well allegedly leaked by the Director of the Official enough to realise that I do not stand in this Misconduct Division of the CJC. This is but two place and make such claims without being of many pages of evidence and material I hold able to substantiate them. I also remind identifying Mark Le Grand as the source of the members that section 132(1) of the Criminal CJC leaks. Justice Act 1989 is very clear about what Leave granted. happens to those who leak confidential Mr GRICE: I do have regard for the information from the CJC, which is a body that secret and confidential markings on all the is funded by the people of Queensland. The documents, and for that reason I will not table law also states that those who tell lies whilst on them all today. However, I am happy to make oath face even more severe penalties. available to the Leader of the Opposition, or The evidence is overwhelming and I call his nominee, additional evidence in my upon the State Government to refer it to a possession. If the Opposition Leader needs competent inquiry such as that foreshadowed convincing, I will do that on a confidential by the Honourable the Attorney-General. Also, basis. I am willing to make myself available to the Members should note that the numerical member for Gladstone and provide her with a digit imprinted in the middle of page 2 of this comprehensive briefing on these matters as extract is a security code that identifies clearly she considers the allegations. Furthermore, I the source of the document. Together with the give a commitment that all the information in verified testimony of several witnesses, I want my possession would be provided to the to make it clear that there is no doubt in my appropriate body for examination. mind of Le Grand's deliberate actions and how In view of the seriousness of the matters they have compromised the integrity of the raised today, I also demand that the CJC very organisation for which he works. I have immediately remove Mark Le Grand from his also been provided with a comprehensive position as Director of the Official Misconduct signed and witnessed statutory declaration Division pending the outcome of an inquiry. verifying the basis of the evidence provided by Only then can there be a full and open me. I also assure the House that all the investigation into the Criminal Justice 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2917

Commission, its Official Misconduct Division— summed up Le Grand's evidence at the in particular the conduct of its director, Mark Le inquiry by stating in a public document— Grand—the way in which the CJC is funded, "I had the opportunity to observe Mr for how long it has been funded and for how Le Grand in the witness box. He long it will be funded. indignantly denies Mr Cleeland's"— The mere fact that we are now faced with the Federal Labor member— a prospect of a public inquiry into the Criminal Justice Commission at further cost to the "allegations and any other suggestion people of Queensland signifies a tragic that he is the source of the journalist's sequence of events. Seven years ago, the information. He was prevented by Fitzgerald inquiry, initiated by the National parliamentary privilege from calling into Party, created an organisation that was question his accuser's motives, so that I dedicated to establishing and maintaining a was presented with the farce of a standard of accountability, propriety and politician having slandered a man under respectability for all Queenslanders, which the parliamentary privilege, and that person excesses of the 1980s demanded. That being hampered by the same organisation was given powers seldom seen in parliamentary privilege in fully defending this country and seldom seen in the Western himself. I dismiss Mr Cleeland's World: the power to hold hearings so secret allegations with contempt." that even the participants are prohibited from The Labor member, Mr Cleeland, was correct. revealing even their presence and the ability to The only farce here is that this very inquiry was seek bugging powers to spy on the set up by the person who allegedly leaked the conversations of members, or me, or anyone information so that he would have a stage on else it chooses. We put in place an which to demonstrate his alleged innocence organisation more powerful than any police and from which to point the finger at the force in our nation. At what cost to the people Federal Police or the politicians or the of Queensland? It is an organisation that costs Queensland police—anybody except himself. I more to run than the entire Parliament. ask honourable members to reflect on who funded this elaborate farce. Is it too much to expect that this elite law enforcement agency should itself embody all Furthermore, it is inconceivable to suggest the ideals that came from the Fitzgerald that not one person within the CJC had any inquiry? Is it too much to expect that this concerns about Le Grand's alleged behaviour organisation, the CJC, should be the model of and his attempts to undermine the Operation probity, truth and honesty demanded by its Wallah investigation by allegedly leaking highly creator? Sadly, on many occasions the CJC secret information. This fact alone raises has proven itself to be politically motivated and significant concerns about the extent of the biased, and in not one particular direction. In corruptors within the ranks of the Criminal this instance, the CJC is not motivated by Justice Commission. Are there more? The loyalty to any particular party but simply to its deliberate abuse of public office, public trust own survival. Political bias can often be and public funds for improper political dependent on the eye of the beholder, but the purposes must be inquired into. truth can never be accused of political bias In response to the many critics who will because the truth is the truth is the truth. now howl in protest at what I have said today Hundreds of thousands of taxpayers' and who will question my motives I say this: in dollars were wasted during the Hanson inquiry recent times we have heard much debate to get to the bottom of the CJC leaks involving about the Criminal Justice Commission being Operation Wallah. Eight elected members the last bastion of honesty, accountability and from both sides of the House were called integrity in Queensland. In fact, in recent days before the inquiry and subjected to intense the current Chair of the CJC, Frank Clair, has questioning over a leak of information. There made much about defending the integrity of is now evidence that the material was in fact the CJC and its role in our society. Mr Clair leaked by the instigator of that very same apparently wants us to believe that the State's expensive inquiry, Mark Le Grand. The most powerful institution and its most senior compelling evidence in my possession not official, Mark Le Grand, are vigorously only identifies Le Grand as the leak behind upholding law and order in the State and Operation Wallah, but indicates that he also operating in the public interest. committed perjury on the stand. This evidence The reality is that this powerful puts the gratuitous comments made by Mr organisation, regarded by many as "The Hanson, QC, into perspective when he Untouchables", is now under suspicion. It is 2918 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 under suspicion for having leaked highly Premier and the Treasurer have decided to confidential information, putting at risk the lives slug Queensland taxpayers and cut back on of its informants, perverting the course of many worthwhile projects. justice and creating an environment which has resulted in its most senior official allegedly This "Back to the Future" Government committing perjury on the witness stand. The has spawned a new star. I am sure all apparent hypocrisy of the CJC is simply honourable members will be aware of Tim breathtaking and many in its employ must Shaw, the Demtel man, and his famous hang their heads in shame. catchcry, "But there's still more." There is a new Demtel man, and I can say unreservedly The alleged actions of the Director of the that the Premier has taken over the mantle Official Misconduct Division and his with more bad news for Queenslanders. This organisation have now brought into question minority Government has become the product the ideals, role and function of the Criminal which the new Demtel man is trying to sell to Justice Commission and the money that goes Queensland, but there is still more. There is a towards it. Questions must now be answered resounding echo in the ears of all Queensland about the CJC and its obsession with survival. taxpayers—more taxes, more charges, more This is the true motive and this is the issue pain for battling Queensland families. There is which deserves public scrutiny. To achieve this one item, though, which the Government has end, there is evidence that Le Grand is managed to deliver less of, and that is prepared to lie, cheat, pervert the course of services. And by the way, there is no money justice and use the CJC as a political tool. back guarantee for the taxpayer if the Members opposite must themselves share the Government is found to be faulty. same disquiet about the role and function of the Criminal Justice Commission and what it With taxpayers already reeling from a $66 has become. rise in third-party insurance, the new Demtel man has gone one step further and What has occurred within the CJC and its announced that there is still more to come. Official Misconduct Division provides a timely Here are a few more features of Queensland's reminder of the dangers facing law minority coalition Government. This enforcement agencies which refuse to be accountable, which seek to build empires and uncompassionate Government offers which fail to implement safeguards preventing taxpayers an increase in the bank accounts allegations of dishonesty, deceit, treachery debits tax, higher charges for national park and corruption that have now become use and a $3.60 rise in car registration, but there is still more. There is the introduction of apparent within the CJC. Friday the thirteenth speed cameras and fees for the use of is truly a sad day for all Queenslanders. cheques at Suncorp, but there is still more. Mrs ROSE (Currumbin) (12.05 p.m.): The Demtel man, Mr Borbidge, wants Unlike the previous speaker, I will speak to the Queensland motorists to cough up for new Appropriation Bills and the budgetary direction tyres and oil to help pay for the Treasurer's toll in which the minority Government is taking our road. However, that is not where our top of the State. It concerns me that all Queenslanders line Government ends. are being made to suffer for the ludicrous promises that the Government made prior to Not content to do things by half, the the last election. The coalition promised to Government wants to sell off our public assets spend like drunken sailors who had just made like electricity, Suncorp and the QIDC. Just for a port of call after 12 months at sea—in the good measure, the Government will throw in coalition's case, six years in opposition. So extra charges for smokers. And let us not much money was forthcoming that it managed forget the TAFE students. The Demtel man to buy its way into power. Already we have and his band of snake oil merchants are trying seen millions of taxpayers' dollars wasted by to sell a real lemon here. They have made this Government which obviously has no idea promises that they just cannot afford to keep. how to function properly. The $65m stock Queenslanders are asking themselves, "Is market gamble and $200m tollway buy-out in this the same Demtel man who, at the last the Treasurer's own region are just two election, promised no new taxes or charges, or examples. has the Premier suffered some sort of The problem with the Government amnesia along with the rest of the members behaving in such a way is that someone has opposite?" Unlike Tim Shaw, Mr Borbidge will to come up with the cash. Unlike the drunken not get a job advertising the Courier-Mail when sailor who goes back on board ship and works the people of Queensland have a chance to for another 12 months to pay off his debts, the boot his Government out. 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2919

Along with more taxes and increased Government has slashed the $3.8m in funds charges, the Government has decided on a needed for the health care centre. It tried to policy of slash and burn in relation to services wriggle out of this commitment by allocating and projects. In an effort to bring its spending only $690,000 in this Budget to establish the under control, schemes which are vital for the service. The former Labor Government benefit of Queenslanders are being cut left, purchased the site in January and intended to right and centre. Of particular concern for Gold have the facility up and running months ago. Coast residents is the lack of any concrete This delay is seriously hurting senior and frail plan to extend the new Gold Coast rail line residents who urgently need to see a dentist. south of Robina. With the Premier trying to On 17 April this year, in the Sun, which is shift blame for the delay in extending the rail a Gold Coast newspaper, the Minister for to Robina to the coalition Federal Health, Mr Horan, stated that the health centre Government, it seems that it is very unlikely would be open in August next year. About a that this Government will honour another of its month or so later, in other Gold Coast election promises to move quickly on the newspapers he said, "We'll actually have it further extension of the rail line south of open by May next year." How can it open by Robina. May next year if he allocates only $690,000 of Before the last election, the Premier the $3.5m needed to build the centre? He is made a big song and dance about having the trying to hoodwink the southern Gold Coast, line go to Coolangatta. Indeed, in the Gold and it will not work. An example of the pain Coast Bulletin of 15 July last year, the Premier that the Health Minister has inflicted on the and the Ministers for Transport, Education and residents of the southern Gold Coast came to Emergency Services were quoted as saying my attention last week when a gentleman who that the railway would be extended was suffering from a very sore tooth came into immediately. Fat chance! The Demtel man my office. He was proud of the fact that he has trouble even getting the rail link to Robina. had managed to keep his teeth throughout his Indeed, in November last year the Minister for life. But he could not afford to see a dentist to Education demanded to know if the former have his sore tooth fixed. He was in extreme Government would have the Helensvale to agony and could not eat solid food. Not Robina link completed according to schedule. having a car, he had to travel by bus to the In the Daily News of 1 November last Gold Coast Hospital at Southport, where the year, the member for Merrimac theorised— dental clinic is located. The journey only made the pain worse. As the member for Southport "Is there a hidden motive, such as well knows, the trip from the southern end of what is really happening about this the coast to Southport can take up to an hour. railway?" When he eventually reached the clinic, he was The Minister's silence about this issue has forced to wait four hours for treatment. This is been deafening. It appears that the only a man who served our nation in time of war, hidden motive in relation to the Gold Coast rail who paid taxes all his life and volunteers link is that the Minister's own Government is regularly to help with community groups. It is attempting to pay for the Treasurer's $200m just not fair. road toll and the $1m art gallery in Caloundra. The Minister for Health—the Demtel man It would not surprise me if this "Back to the in training—must take the blame for this Future" Government decides that it cannot pathetic situation. How much longer will afford to extend the rail line further and starts residents of the southern Gold Coast wait until tearing up the tracks from Robina north, they receive the medical and dental treatment repeating an act of vandalism which the they deserve? This Government has paid lip- Liberals and Nationals inflicted on Gold Coast service to the establishment of a community residents some 40 years ago when they tore health service at Palm Beach in an attempt to up the original rail line. save itself from the flak which I can assure it Ordinary Queenslanders are being hit will be generated when residents realise they hard by other cuts to vital services. Pensioners have had the wool pulled over their eyes and the elderly have been hit by a reduction in concerning this issue. assistance from the Home Assist and Home But the deception does not end there. Secure schemes. Parents of school children There is still more. Under pressure from the will no longer get a $50 uniform allowance to southern Gold Coast community, this help them with back to school costs. In my Government has said that it will set up a police electorate, people in desperate need of dental station at Palm Beach. This one is a beauty. treatment are being made to travel to The Demtel man shines through! It seems we Southport for assistance, because this got a real bargain. The Government has tried 2920 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 to con the community into thinking that it will attacked small business, which is currently build a police station for $75,000. That is right: finding it hard to survive. $75,000 has been allocated to build a new Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr J. N. police station at Palm Beach. As one person Goss): Order! When referring to another said, $75,000 will not even buy a toilet block at member in the Chamber, the member must Palm Beach. There is no commitment to refer to the member by the correct title. further funding. The Government has made a token commitment in an attempt to wriggle out Mrs ROSE: Thank you, Mr Deputy of its election promise. It was identified in Speaker. capital works outlays that $2m was needed to Yesterday's announcement that build it, but the Government has allocated only Queensland's unemployment rate had jumped $75,000. to 9.8 per cent under this Government should The Government's former Demtel man, signal that this Government should follow the the Minister for Police, made a big song and performance of the previous Labor dance about this issue on the southern Gold Government and help small-business Coast before the last State election. He operators in this State. What have we seen promised to all and sundry that he would instead? We have seen a Government deliver a brand spanking new station as soon fumbling to fund its election promises. It has as he was elected to the Government introduced a levy which will mean the loss of benches. What did he deliver—$75,000 and small businesses in my electorate and the no commitment to further funding. Both the destruction of a number of jobs. The ill- community health centre and the police considered tyre levy will cause problems. station are prime examples of the way in which Although I agree that something must be this Government has misrepresented the truth done to reduce the impact on the environment and deceived its way into power. of old tyres, this is not the way to go. The member for Burleigh, who is heading My electorate abuts the Queensland/New an inquiry into truth in political advertising, South Wales border and, as such, tyre could well find herself mentioned as a retailers will be forced to either absorb the purveyor of porkies, as she has told all and Treasurer's levy or face seeing their customers sundry that Palm Beach has got its police go across the border where tyres are cheaper. station. Where does she expect the rest of the Mr Barry Sawtell, who owns a tyre business at funding to come from—chook raffles? One Coolangatta, has told me that this measure really has to wonder at the motives behind the could force his business to the wall. He already Government's attempt to make it look as pays $1 per old tyre to have them recycled, though it is doing something. Knowing it would and estimates that the Treasurer's new tax will be lambasted by the community and media if cost over $7,000 per year plus costs of it failed to deliver on the health centre and administration. Mr Sawtell was mentioned in police station, it needed to show that it was both the Gold Coast Bulletin and the Courier- doing at least something by allocating tiny Mail on Wednesday. I agree with what that amounts. In the case of the police station, the small-business person on the Gold Coast said. Government has allocated only 4 per cent of He stated— the total budget needed. Could the "This Government was supposed to Government be considering an early election? help small business, not break it up." It realises that it must win seats and not lose The Treasurer's action will give large firms any in order to gain power in its own right so it the ability to cut out the small operators, such had to spend a pittance in order to shore up as Mr Sawtell, as they can quite easily move the member for Burleigh. However, I will make their business across the border, thereby sure that its little game of deception does not taking away trade from the smaller operators. succeed and that it is held responsible for its Potentially hundreds of jobs could be lost on actions. the Gold Coast because of the Government's Residents on the southern Gold Coast actions. Unfortunately, we have not heard a need the health centre and the police station peep from any other members with electorates delivered now, not in a couple of years' time. on the Gold Coast, including the member for Both the Minister for Police and the Minister Surfers Paradise. What will the Demtel man for Health must, and will be held accountable say to the struggling tyre retailers in his for their actions in abandoning the residents of electorate when they see their customers the southern Gold Coast. But there is still going across the border to buy new tyres? I more. The new Demtel man, along with the want to know so that I can explain that to the Treasurer, has delivered another blow to the families in my electorate who will lose their southern Gold Coast. This time they have business as a result of the Government's 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2921 actions. It is imperative that the Government planned tyre, oil and cigarette taxes. In New reconsider this act of contempt, which will only South Wales, they tackle the problem of enhance employment prospects and the State having higher fuel prices than Queensland by coffers in New South Wales. Let us not forget insulating the Tweed Heads area from State the oil tax as well. When Mr or Ms Bloggs from fuel tax. This means that local businesses are Coolangatta or Elanora want to get a new set not hurt by people crossing the border to buy of tyres or an oil change, they are going to go fuel. I will be having a close look at the New across the border where it is cheaper. South Wales legislation that exempts the Another ill-considered move that will cost Tweed from fuel tax and will be presenting a jobs on the Gold Coast and help prop up the proposal to the Government to undertake a New South Wales Treasury is the increase in similar scheme in Queensland for tyres, oil and the tobacco tax. I have managed to ascertain cigarettes. By undertaking this action, we can that currently the New South Wales safeguard local small business on the Gold Government loses around $25m in revenue to Coast and continue to tap into New South Queensland annually as a result of smokers or Wales smokers as a source of revenue. retailers coming across the border to Coalition members will, I hope, join with me in Queensland to purchase cigarettes. This supporting this action. means that Gold Coast businesses are As members would know, the Gold Coast benefiting from increased sales and that the possesses one of the most beautiful Queensland Treasury pockets extra income. coastlines and hinterlands in the nation. They But the Government's ill-thought-out plan will are a magnet to millions of visitors and locals mean that this market will cease to exist. New each year. Unfortunately, though, some of South Wales smokers and retailers will no these people get into difficulty. Whether it be longer venture across the border to purchase people or boats in trouble at sea or their supplies. Again, while I agree that bushwalkers or hikers caught in the hinterland, something must be done to discourage the RACQ Careflight helicopter provides a vital smoking, especially among younger people, service to help ferry injured people to hospital this is not the right course of action. Members and perform other vital operations. The service opposite say that the former Government was was hoping for an increase in funding from the the one that increased taxes on cigarettes, but member for Southport. However, it was sadly they forget that this was done before an disappointed. I am sure that the member for election so that people could vote on it. This Southport saw the comments of Ashley Van Government has broken its solemn election de Velde in the Gold Coast Bulletin yesterday. promise not to increase taxes, and it will be The service will have to rely on generous forced to pay. donations from sponsors and the public. This It can be seen, therefore, that the Gold service deserves greater recognition from a Coast, especially my electorate, will be made Government which boasts three Ministers and to suffer from this ill-conceived and deceitful a Premier based on the Gold Coast. But Budget. Families and businesses will be hurt again, the Demtel man and his shonky deals just to help the Demtel man and his Treasurer have deprived the Gold Coast of valuable pay for their litany of promises—promises such funding. as the Treasurer's toll road. As this As I mentioned previously, the Gold Coast Government has the majority of members in is a mecca to millions of tourists each year. this House who represent seats on the Gold The magnificent McPherson ranges contain Coast, I would have thought that they would some of the most beautiful and picturesque have joined with me in condemning the national parks not just in Queensland but in Budget. Do they not realise that families and Australia. Lamington National Park and businesses in their electorates will be hurt by Springbrook National Park feature. The poorly this Budget, or have they grown accustomed conceived levy on national park users will to Government and therefore could not care serve only to drive tourists away. When less about the people who elected them? combined with the Federal coalition Indeed, the smell of ministerial leather Government's idiotic 600 per cent hike in the may have intoxicated several Gold Coast tax charged on Great Barrier Reef users, it members into blindly following the dictates of could lead to a fall in interstate and, more the Demtel man and his Treasurer. If they importantly, international visitors to our State. were serious about looking after the interests Let us not pretend for one minute that of their constituents, then they would join with people come to Queensland just to visit the me in my opposition to the Government's Gold Coast or the Great Barrier Reef. They plans and help me lobby to have the Gold come for a combination of attractions. This Coast made exempt from the Government's Government will hurt the tourism industry, 2922 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 which will eventually become this State's provide non-contact time for primary, special leading industry and employment generator. and preschool teachers. It is clear that this Just like the tyre, oil and tobacco taxes—— Budget will have no impact on class sizes. In Time expired. fact, at the opening of the Queensland Council for Parents and Citizens Association Mr BREDHAUER (Cook) (12.25 p.m.): State conference in Townsville one week ago The first Sheldon/Borbidge budget for today, the Minister acknowledged that class education can best be described as a status sizes in certain areas may rise marginally. I quo document. Although the Budget papers thought that was a fairly astonishing admission are remarkably bereft of information and for the Minister to make—that class sizes may details in respect of specific areas of spending in fact rise as a result of this Budget. in education, what can be gleaned from The Government has made much of its reading the documents and comparing them claims that it is increasing the Education with last year's Budget papers is that, at best, capital works budget by 43 per cent. But what education in Queensland is marking time. it has failed to advise the people of Undoubtedly there are a number of areas in Queensland is that the main reason it has which the Government has moved to increase achieved such an increase is the capital works resources or to establish new initiatives but, freeze which it has implemented over the last simultaneously, other areas can be readily six months, which has meant that the last identified in which the Government has cut or Education capital works budget was reduced programs as it has reshuffled dramatically underspent. In fact, in primary resources from one area in the budget to the education alone the capital works budget was other. underspent by $15.5m or 16 per cent, and in The Treasurer and the Minister have secondary education the capital works budget attempted to convince Queenslanders that was underspent by $18.2m or a massive 25 there has been an 8.9 per cent increase in per cent of the Capital Works Program. This funding for education in this year's Budget. Government has starved Queensland This is demonstrably not the case. When one businesses and Queensland schools of compares the actual expenditure in 1995-96 $33.7m in capital works over the last financial with the Budget Estimates for 1996-97, the year. budgeted increase in education excluding Under Treasurer Sheldon's capital works TAFE is $123m or 4.6 per cent. When one freeze, this Government deliberately withheld allows for the inflation figure indicated in the those resources from Queensland school Budget of 2.2 per cent and the fact that students so that it could roll them over into this Queensland is expected to experience year's budget and make the budget scenario enrolment growth in Queensland schools in in education look far better than it is. In fact, if 1997 of in excess of 5,000 students across one takes the $33.7m underspent in primary the education system, then the real increase and secondary education from last year's in the Education budget is closer to 1.5 per capital works budget which has been rolled cent. That 1.5 per cent increase also includes over and recognises that that amount should the alleged 43 per cent increase in capital have been added to the base level of this works funding, which, as I will go on to year's budget, if the Government had not establish later in this speech, is a masterful withheld the resources, then in fact over $67m sleight of hand by the Treasurer and Minister. of the so-called $101m increase in capital An accurate assessment of the Capital Works works has been engineered by the Program increase further reduces the notional Government's capital works freeze in order to increase in education funding and hence prop up its Education budget. reinforces my assertion that essentially what the Government has achieved is a status quo The other thing which needs to be budget for education. recognised is that, when the Labor Government initiated its Building Better The Government has trumpeted an Schools Program, it was always intended to be increase of 1,000 in teacher numbers, and the a three-year program with increasing Budget additional increase is welcomed. But the allocations in the second and third years as Opposition's support for this increase is the program got into full swing. So, essentially, qualified. What the Government has failed to the Government is trying to claim credit for a advise the public of Queensland is that, of Labor initiative and basically is honouring one those 1,000 extra teachers, 425 are needed of our previous commitments. I also just to keep pace with enrolment growth and understand that computer hardware is 309 are required to deliver the Government's included in the capital works component of the obligations through an industrial agreement to Budget this year for the first time. The 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2923 combined effect of all of these factors understanding of our nearest neighbours and substantially undermines the credibility of both biggest trading partners. the Treasurer and the Minister because it The Government's recognition of the undermines the supposed $101m—43 per value of Labor initiatives in literacy and cent—increase in capital works touted by them numeracy and behaviour management and both. their continuation of support for those One of the areas which the Government programs which we initiated is welcome. It has cut is a damning indictment on the short- should be noted, however, that the budget for sightedness of the Minister and the the curriculum reform initiatives of the former Government. In 1995-96 the Labor Government, including the Reading Recovery Government allocated $11.1m for its Program, remains constant. Last year, the Computers in Schools Program. In 1996-97, Labor Government spent $11.1m on this Government is planning to spend $7.2m behaviour management, which is a key issue on computers in schools. That is a cut of for many parents and teachers. This around 35 per cent in the program allocation Government's allocation of $6.9m for for computers in schools. Even if we add in the additional teachers and counsellors is $2m which has been allocated for the Global welcome but falls well short of the commitment Classrooms Project, the Computers in Schools behaviour management would have received Program has still been cut by around 17 per under a Labor Government. However, cent. It is an absolute outrage for the members of this House will recollect that, once Government, at this time when we are trying to again, the coalition's election promise was that prepare our young people for life in the twenty- it would double the number of guidance first century, to be cutting investment in officers in Queensland schools in its first term computers and technology in schools. in Parliament. In 1995, the Education We should not forget that the coalition's Department employed 396 guidance and election promise, made on 27 June 1995, in counselling officers at a cost of $17.1m per relation to the Global Classroom Project was annum, in addition to the above mentioned that they would have a budget of between $11.1m for behaviour management. Providing $25m and $30m for capital and recurrent 83 teachers and 12 counsellors in a $6.9m expenditure over a three-year period. The $2m program falls dramatically short of the allocated to the Global Classroom Project in commitment made by the coalition to double this year's Budget is a poor apology for yet the number of guidance officers, which clearly another broken election promise. In one of its would require an additional $17m per annum press releases, the Government says that it in 1995 terms if it were to be achieved. That is will spend $34m on technology in schools in yet another broken election promise. the next financial year, but this is another con The Remote Area Incentive Scheme is an job, with the bulk of that money being important issue for people in rural and remote allocated to fund the Schools Information parts of Queensland. Budget statements by Management Systems—SIMS—which is an the Minister claim that the Remote Area administrative program for bureaucratic Incentive Scheme will be increased from convenience, not a program that provides $2.2m to $5.6m in the current year. Whilst that resources to students in classrooms. I will have increase is welcomed, it is a shame that the more to say about that at a later time. Minister could not be brought to the The Government has also reduced negotiating table to discuss the Remote Area funding for the Languages Other Than English Incentive Scheme with teachers representing Program, which is hardly surprising since the rural and remote schools in Queensland. They review of LOTE announced by the Minister in were forced into the situation of having to take March has not been heard of since. In fact, I unprecedented strike action to get the Minister am reliably informed that, when the Minister to even come to the negotiating table to talk announced the review of Languages Other to them. The Minister stands condemned for, Than English, he forgot to give anyone the once again, failing to negotiate with the key responsibility for undertaking the review and stakeholders in education over that important he set no time lines, so nothing happened for issue. a considerable period of time. Meanwhile, the If one looks at the Budget papers, one future employment prospects of young sees that the Minister's claim that funding is Queenslanders which are enhanced through going from $2.2m to $5.6m appears very LOTE continues in a state of uncertainty. shaky because, according to the Treasurer's LOTE also provides an important opportunity speech and the Budget documents, only an to improve our cultural and social additional $2.3m has been allocated. I do not 2924 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 think one needs to be an Education Minister, that this Government has not lived up to the or even the member for Moggill, to work out expectations generated by the former Labor that $2.2m plus $2.3m does not equal $5.6m. Government's commitment in this area. I would be curious to know where the other I can find no reference in the Budget $1.1m has gone. I know that the Minister has papers to the former Government's $2.9m trouble with his literacy and his annual allocation for Sunsmart. In a State comprehension. We heard him on radio which has the world's highest incidence of skin saying that the word "reverse" actually means cancer, most of which is related to exposure to "review"; I do not know what dictionary he got the sun, educating young children about the that from. However, until this Budget, I did not dangers of that exposure and encouraging know that the Minister has a problem with good habits to prevent skin damage which will numeracy as well. Maybe he could go back to ultimately result in skin cancer is an important school and benefit from the Labor initiatives in health initiative. I will be seeking clarification literacy and numeracy. There is no sign of the from the Minister as to whether this program other $1.1m which this Government professes has been abolished. to have committed to improve the Remote Area Incentive Scheme. It should also be noted that the former Government allocated $27m per annum for It should also be noted that the the back to school uniform allowance. Government has essentially abolished the Whereas this allowance had its critics, there is construction of new housing for teachers in no doubt that many struggling families found rural and remote areas. Every National Party the $50 per student payment of invaluable member who represents a country town, a assistance at the time of the school year when remote area or a provincial city where teacher they were struggling to meet the costs of accommodation is provided because there is outfitting their children for school. It is also insufficient accommodation to house the interesting to note that when the Minister necessary teachers should be putting the announced that the allowance would be question to the Treasurer and to the reviewed—and that is what he said in March, Education Minister about why the teacher that the school uniform allowance would be accommodation program has been reviewed—he invited P & Cs to indicate abandoned. Last year's Budget allowed whether they would prefer the money to be $2.6m for the completion of 23 units of paid individually to parents, as was the case teacher accommodation; this year's Budget then, or whether the money should go allows a little over $670,000 for two units of collectively as a lump sum to schools so that teacher housing on Saibai Island and Mer the P & C can make decisions about Island in the Torres Strait. The only reason appropriate resources for each school. funding for those two houses is on the Overwhelmingly, I have to say, P & Cs said program is that they have been rolled over that they would prefer the money to go directly from previous years' housing programs to the schools rather than to the parents. But because of difficulties resolving native title this Government has stolen the money from issues in respect of siting those units of parents and rolled it back into its Budget to accommodation. So, really, there is no new cover the shortfalls and to help it meet its teacher accommodation in this Budget, only other election promises. So the Minister an allocation of funds for maintenance and backed away from the commitment that he upgrading. gave in March that he would make that money Another important issue for the available to schools through their P & Cs for Queensland education community is the additional resources. The P & Cs at the provision of appropriate education resources schools that I have visited are not likely to let for students with disability. In October 1995, him forget it. the then Minister for Education, the member I also want to talk briefly about the for Ipswich, announced a major program of program for airconditioning schools. I reform of services to students with disability. At acknowledge that this is one area in which that time, it was anticipated that the there has been an allocation of resources Government would spend an additional $72m, which is basically designed to honour an or $14.5m per annum over the next five years, election commitment which the coalition gave to fund additional teachers, teacher aide prior to the Mundingburra by-election. But it is hours, therapy positions, capital facilities, still a grave concern to me that the basis on training programs and transport for students which those resources are allocated is a with disability. This year's Budget allocates subsidy of two-for-one Government-to-P & C $12.1m, and whilst the additional resources contribution. I have many schools in my the Budget will fund will help, there is no doubt electorate, all of which would be entitled to 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2925 benefit from the program. I have no doubt that participating in this debate on the 1996-97 there are many schools in the electorate of the Budget. member for Charters Towers and various other Mr HOLLIS: Mr Deputy Speaker, I draw members where the P & Cs simply cannot your attention to the State of the House. afford their one-third contribution. I believe that this is an iniquitous system Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr J. N. that disadvantages people in poor areas. It Goss): The numbers are sufficient. does not matter where they are—whether they Mrs GAMIN: Other speakers will take are in the small country towns that have more time in detailed Budget analysis, but I suffered drought, or towns that are suffering want to speak briefly on some aspects of the from poor commodity prices, especially for Budget that are pleasing to my electorate and cattle and that type of thing—if the local the southern Gold Coast, as well as on some school community cannot afford to raise the matters that will be beneficial to my one-third part of the cost of installing the constituents generally. airconditioning, then they miss out. That is a I take this opportunity to thank the travesty of justice. While I am not going to be member for Mount Ommaney for allowing me mealy-mouthed about this Government to take his speaking spot rather than my own, honouring its election promise, I believe that it which would have been quite late at night, in is debatable whether airconditioning north order that I can comment on some of the Queensland schools is the highest priority. really stupid comments that the member for However, coming from north Queensland, I Currumbin made in this House this morning. I know what an important issue it is for those do not normally engage in personal debate, schools in north Queensland, but it is an but I believe that some of the really silly things inequitable way to apply those funds to ask she said deserve to be answered. the P & Cs to contribute one-third of the cost. The member for Currumbin is on public All in all, the Education budget could best record as saying that Palm Beach does not be described as one which is not as bad as it want or need a police station. All through last might have been. When the Government put year, when the furore was going on, when her its toe in the water several months ago and Government was in power and her Minister suggested that it would slash $100m from the was refusing the police station, the member Education budget, the strength of community for Currumbin supported her Minister. She and educational organisation reaction would not fight for the people of Palm Beach. obviously forced this Government into a re- think. And why would those people not be Mr Healy: What did she say? upset—when the Treasurer is spending Mrs GAMIN: She said, "Palm Beach $200m on the Sunshine Motorway and $80m does not want a police station. A little on Metway splurges—that the Government shopfront will do." We would have had a little was going to cut $100m from Education? shopfront for a while, then it would have gone What we do have is a Budget which is away, and there would be no police on the maintaining the status quo. The Government beat at Palm Beach. The then Minister would has delivered on a number of its election have done something about that area some promises, including the airconditioning of north time after the turn of the century. That is just Queensland schools, but equally undeniably it not good enough for the people of Palm has failed to live up to the expectations of the Beach. community in many areas, including To me, the first and most important computers in schools, students with matter in this Budget is the approval of the disabilities, behaviour management, LOTE new police station at Palm Beach. It was an and vocational education. What can be said in election commitment by the Police Minister unequivocal terms is that, during the term of prior to the July 1995 election. However, the the Labor Government, Education funding coalition did not gain Government until after was increased by 52.6 per cent. There is no the Mundingburra by-election. Although the doubt that Queenslanders would have fared commitment was reaffirmed, we came in half- better in Education from a Labor Budget in way through a Budget year and no funds were 1996-97 than they have from the coalition available for the purpose. Many people Government. On the Howard/Costello Budget deserve the credit for pushing the Palm Beach rating monitor, I suggest that the Education police station barrow: the former Liberal Minister would achieve about 5 out of 10. candidate for Currumbin, Kerrin Woods, Mrs GAMIN (Burleigh) (12.44 p.m.): I Councillor Daphne McDonald, business people am pleased to have the opportunity of led by Tony Byrne, the newly formed Chamber 2926 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 of Commerce and, most particularly, local not able to take him up on it. Queensland residents themselves. Police Service's preferred option is to buy its Over the past few months, l have been own land and build, with the cost coming out absolutely ruthless in my lobbying of Police of the Capital Works Program. If the leasing Minister Russell Cooper and Premier Rob option were exercised, that would create Borbidge. I count as a personal achievement recurrent costs that would come out of the the decision announced this week to allocate region's operating budget and, of course, that option is much less attractive when operating funds for a police station at Palm Beach. A budgets are so tight. sum of $75,000 has been allocated to commence planning, and Palm Beach is I am pleased that the Minister for included, with six other projects, in $7.4m for Transport has agreed to install speed cameras land acquisition. The Department of Public at speed-related traffic accident black spots. Works and Housing has been told to They can only be looked upon as revenue investigate suitability of sites from the aspects raisers by those stupid people who will persist of council town planning matters and in speeding and getting fined: no speed, no construction requirements. In fact, works fine, no revenue. I was a member of the officers undertook inspections in Palm Beach parliamentary Travelsafe Committee that on 11 September, within 24 hours of the investigated, reported and recommended the Budget being brought down. That is not a bad use of speed cameras in Queensland. I am on effort. the public record as being strongly supportive of this most important road safety measure. The member for Currumbin has either Cameras should be fully operational by April deliberately misled this House this morning or 1997 and, if the Victorian experience is she has proved herself incapable of following anything to go by, initial revenue will decrease Budget papers. It is fair to say that the as people learn to improve their driving habits, processes of identification of site plus and speed-related accidents will decrease approvals, drawing up of plans and calling of markedly. tenders will take some months. In total, $2m has been allocated to Palm Beach, with the The Minister for Transport has also actual works component to come into the announced $4.5m for the duplication of 1997-1998 Budget, which will be brought Bermuda Street—that is called the Southport- down in May 1997—in six months' time. Burleigh Road—between Christine Avenue and Reedy Creek or Burleigh Connection Most police stations take three years to Road. This work is in addition to considerable complete. In fact, under a Labor Government, other roadworks taking place in the Burleigh the Burleigh Police Station took three years, electorate, including the extension of Bermuda from 1989 to 1992. I intend that the Palm Street to the Pacific Highway, which should be Beach police station will be completed within completed between May and July 1997; four- two years. l have already held discussions with laning on Reedy Creek Road, which will be the Premier and the Police Minister to ensure mostly completed in 1996-97, with the section this. They know that they will be relentlessly between Sunlight Drive and Tabilban Street pursued, because I want the Palm Beach set down for 1998; the duplication of the police station up and running just as quickly as Pacific Highway through to Tugun, which is humanly possible. The Police Minister has should be completed late this year or early also assured me that local stations will not next year; widening of West Burleigh Road, have their staff depleted in order to man the which should also be carried out in 1996-97 Palm Beach station. I certainly would not put between Tabilban Street and Stephens Street, up with staff reductions for the Burleigh or although a completion date cannot be Coolangatta stations. The Palm Beach police finalised until negotiations have been sorted station will be self-sufficient. out in respect of car parking requirements for In concluding this segment on the Palm businesses fronting Lower West Burleigh Beach police station, I should like to place on Road. The Department of Main Roads has record my gratitude for the generous and been very cooperative and helpful as we work public spirited offer made by Palm Beach our way through parking and access problems. builder Max Shearer, who was prepared to We are receiving a third 60 megavolt construct a station to Police Service amperes transformer to increase electricity specifications on his own land and lease it supply to developing areas from Miami south back to the department. We are very to the New South Wales border, and funding appreciative of his civic-minded concern for our of $200,000 is allocated to that project in the community, and I am only sorry that we were 1996-97 Budget. 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2927

Caningeraba State School is receiving that the Minister was certainly keen to reduce one each of Type B and Type D modular the age limit and would be trying very hard to buildings, and a music block. The total cost of get it into the Budget. I know that independent those three projects, which will be completed retirees, not just those in my own electorate in 1996-97, is $524,842. The sum of but also those throughout the State, will be $690,000 has been allocated for the very pleased at this initiative. commencement of the Palm Beach In the time remaining to me, I will speak Community Health Centre at Fifth Avenue—as about Fleay's Wildlife Park in my electorate of the member for Currumbin rightly pointed Burleigh. I speak as a friend, neighbour and out—with work to be completed in the next supporter of the late Dr David Fleay and the financial year. That is not a bad effort, when fauna reserve which he created at West one considers the mess that the previous Burleigh, and which he passed over to the Labor Government made of identifying and State Government before he died. My sorting out a site for a community health association goes back more than 30 years. centre at Palm Beach. That will provide a The comments made in Parliament by the range of community-based services including member for Everton that the wildlife park oral health services. would be sold are untrue and mischievous but Further development of the Gold Coast have succeeded in their design to cause Hospital will commence in 1996-97, with an trouble. The Department of Environment will allocation of $11.6m to upgrade selected not sell the park, and indeed can never sell facilities—renal, obstetric and paediatric the park. There have also been comments services—plus addressing engineering that the park should not be commercialised, services for airconditioning and medical gases. yet the park is, in fact, a commercial venture A 30-bed ward at the Gold Coast Hospital will like many other tourist attractions. Visitors are be reopened. charged as they come through the turnstiles, Funding of $500,000 is provided to meet food is sold, and there is an attractive souvenir initial costs associated with the development shop. However, expenses exceeded of preliminary planning for Robina hospital. I receipts by about $400,000 last year, and over know that this will be welcomed greatly by the years this mounts up to a considerable southern Gold Coast residents. I hope that the sum, which has been subsidised by the new Robina hospital will deal with day surgery, Department of Environment. That means that which would relieve the pressure on the Gold less money is available for other Coast Hospital. Robina's services will expand environmental works such as improving and to a range of community health facilities, and upgrading national parks, such as Burleigh eventually to a full hospital. Headland, which is also run from Fleay's. Although there may be some One thing I have particularly noticed over disappointment that funds have not been many years is that Gold Coast residents like to made available for beach replenishment, know that Fleay's Wildlife Park is there. They $3.7m has been allocated for the Tweed River have a warm, fuzzy feeling of goodwill towards bypass at the Tweed River entrance, and the the park. They want it to stay there, but most continuation of the initial dredging of the of them do not visit it themselves. "We took the children there when they were little," they entrance and nourishment of the southern say. "We haven't been there for years," they Gold Coast beaches. The estimated cost of say. I wish Gold Coasters would put some this project for the first 25 years is $35.5m. physical support behind the wildlife park. They Those are just a few of the local Budget should visit more often and admire the items that are of direct interest to my improvements, take their interstate and constituents. However, I cannot complete this overseas visitors there—as I do—and walk address without touching on the portfolio of along the boardwalk tracks and through the Families, Youth and Community Care. From mangroves. But they do not, and that is a pity. December 1996, the Seniors Card will be The park is losing up to $400,000 a year and expanded. It will become non-means tested there can be no doubt that management for people 65 years of age and over, dropping structures must be tightened and visitor from 70 years of age. Seniors Business numbers improved. Although I would prefer Discounts have already been expanded to the that management was retained by National non-means tested age of 60 years. A few Parks, the problem is very serious and must weeks ago, I was guest speaker at a meeting be addressed. That is why the proposal has of the Association of Independent Retirees. now come forward that the National Trust They particularly asked me to speak on the might take over the management side and run matter of the Seniors Card, and I told them Currumbin Sanctuary and Fleay's Wildlife Park 2928 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 in tandem. That proposal is causing great Justice Committee? Section 118.1(a) of the consternation. I fully understand and Criminal Justice Act states— appreciate that concern. "The functions of the Parliamentary Mr Bredhauer: How can the National Criminal Justice Committee are— Trust afford to lose $400,000 a year? (a) to monitor and review the discharge Mrs GAMIN: I do not think that the of the functions of the Commission National Trust is a solution, and I doubt that it as a whole and of the Official will happen anyway, but something has to be Misconduct Division in particular." done to solve the money drain. I am gravely The allegations made today by the concerned that matters have reached this honourable member for Broadwater were stage. The park cannot be allowed to continue against the Director of the Official Misconduct to cost so much money, but it can never be Division. Quite clearly, in terms of the Criminal closed. The scientific research and work on Justice Act, it is the role of the Parliamentary endangered species must be continued. Criminal Justice Committee to investigate such Fleay's Wildlife Park is internationally allegations. renowned, it is a national icon and every effort must be made to improve its financial viability. Indeed, the allegations made against the director are serious ones and, if they are Returning to the Budget—I cannot stop correct, they certainly should be investigated. I smiling. This is the best State Budget since ask the question: why was the matter not 1989 and it will do a great job for Queensland. referred to the Parliamentary Criminal Justice I am very glad to be able to express my Committee by the honourable member for pleasure at measures that will benefit the Broadwater? That raises serious doubts and people of Burleigh electorate. Yes, the Gold serious questions as to the motives behind the Coast has done well, and so it should: there is honourable member's allegations. Why do we a population explosion in southern have these allegations being brought forward Queensland and residents—new and old at this point—when we are waiting on a report residents—deserve that consideration and from the Carruthers inquiry and when this need the services that this Government will Government has sustained a continual attack provide. on the Criminal Justice Commission since it Sitting suspended from 1 to 2.30 p.m. came into office? We are seeing another attack by this Government on the Criminal Mr NUTTALL (Sandgate) (2.30 p.m.): Justice Commission and, indeed, on the As the Deputy Chair of the Parliamentary Parliamentary Criminal Justice Committee. Criminal Justice Committee, I cannot allow the comments made by the honourable member The honourable member for Broadwater for Broadwater to go unchallenged and asked that the allegations that he raised today without some comment from me. be put under the umbrella of the judicial inquiry which the Honourable the Attorney- I understand that Mr Clair, the head of the General wishes to establish into the Criminal Criminal Justice Commission, is holding a Justice Commission. My view about that press conference prior to 3 o'clock today to judicial inquiry has been made public. As the pass on his comments regarding the Deputy Chair of the Parliamentary Criminal allegations made by the honourable member Justice Committee, I am bitterly opposed to for Broadwater. I make no judgment and no that judicial inquiry because it undermines the comment as to the truth or otherwise of the operations of the Parliamentary Criminal allegations made by the honourable member Justice Committee. In terms of the for Broadwater. However, I will make comment requirements of the Parliamentary Criminal about the way in which this information has Justice Committee, it subverts the Criminal been relayed. Justice Act. Was this matter, which was raised by the Today we have heard allegations made honourable member for Broadwater, by the honourable member for Broadwater discussed with the Premier and the Attorney- that in some way try to give some legitimacy to General prior to its announcement in the this shonky judicial inquiry that the Honourable Parliament this afternoon? If the member did the Attorney-General wants to conduct into the have discussions with both the Premier and Criminal Justice Commission. What we have is the Attorney-General, or either of the a muddying of the waters. We have a Honourable Ministers, why did those Ministers continuation of the sustained attack by the not advise Mr Grice that, in terms of section National/Liberal coalition Government on the 118 of the Criminal Justice Act, he should refer Criminal Justice Commission. That begs the the matter to the Parliamentary Criminal question: does this Government not want to 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2929 be monitored by the Criminal Justice Criminal Justice Act and refer this matter to the Commission? The answer is: yes. That is why Parliamentary Criminal Justice Committee. If it we have these sustained attacks. does not, this Government is showing that it is As I have said, I make no comment out to destroy the Criminal Justice Commission regarding today's allegations against the and that it has no faith in the parliamentary Criminal Justice Commission and Mr Mark Le committee system, or it has no faith in the Grand, who is the Director of the Official Government members on the Parliamentary Misconduct Division. I want to make it very Criminal Justice Committee to carry out their clear that I am not here to defend Mr Le duties. Grand; Mr Le Grand will be able to defend the These are serious allegations indeed. As I allegations if they are investigated. However, I have said, the question must be asked as to want to outline Mr Le Grand's CV. Mr Le the reason behind raising these allegations at Grand has been involved in prosecution works this particular point when we are waiting for a since 1971. From 1977, he was senior solicitor report on the Carruthers inquiry. to the Australian Royal Commission of Inquiry Mr Dollin: Intimidation. into Drugs conducted by Sir Edward Williams. Mr Le Grand was senior solicitor of the first "Mr Mr NUTTALL: The honourable member Asia" royal commissions that Mr Justice for Maryborough may be correct. Is this about Stewart undertook from 1981 to 1982. Later, trying to intimidate the Criminal Justice from 1983 to 1984, Mr Le Grand served as a Commission? Is this about trying to destroy senior solicitor to the Special Prosecutor, the delicate fabric that we have had to weave Robert Redlich, QC, in the investigation and since the Fitzgerald report was brought down? prosecution of matters flowing from the Is this about destroying all the work that has Stewart and Costigan royal commissions. been done since 1988? The only answer to From 1984 to 1986 he was Deputy those questions, if this Government does not Commonwealth Director of Public refer the matter to the appropriate body, is Prosecutions, and from 1986 to 1988 he was yes. The Government has a responsibility to general counsel to the National Crime the people of Queensland to uphold the law, Authority in Melbourne. Immediately prior to and the law clearly states that the matter his appointment to the Criminal Justice should come before the Parliamentary Commission, Mr Le Grand was the South Criminal Justice Committee. If this Australian member of the National Crime Government is legitimate, it will refer the Authority. matter to that committee. Today, Mr Grice has accused Mr Le Mr Nunn: I would have thought that the Grand of serious misconduct and, obviously, Chairman of the PCJC would have asked for on my understanding, breaching the terms of that. the Criminal Code. Mr NUTTALL: The deputy chairman certainly has. I am sure that much more will be Mr Ardill: How about the person who gave it to him? Aren't they guilty of serious said in the media about the allegations that Mr misconduct? Grice has made today. I think it is a shame that the matter has been raised in this Mr NUTTALL: The honourable member manner. As I have said, it is extremely for Archerfield has made an interesting point disappointing that the matter has not been about where the honourable member for handled in the proper way. If Mr Grice had Broadwater obtained the information that he spoken to the Premier prior to making the outlined today. No doubt if there is an inquiry announcement in the Parliament, the Premier that will come to light. has an obligation to explain to the Parliament However, I say that, in terms of the and to the people of Queensland why he did Criminal Justice Act, the proper authority and not advise Mr Grice to refer the matter to the the proper body to conduct such an inquiry is appropriate body. the Parliamentary Criminal Justice Committee. One of the matters covered in the Today, this Government, the Attorney-General Appropriation Bills that I particularly wish to and the Premier should instruct the cover is that of youth unemployment. It is a honourable member for Broadwater to refer damning indictment on the Government that that matter to the Parliamentary Criminal the issue of youth unemployment has not Justice Committee. In terms of upholding and been addressed as it should have been. believing in the Criminal Justice Commission, When one looks at the Federal Government's as this Government has stated that it does, if it drastic cutting of Labor programs for the long- is legitimate and if it is fair dinkum, then the term unemployed and youth, the question has Government should act under the terms of the to be asked: why has this Government not 2930 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 taken up the gauntlet on behalf of the young, Mr NUTTALL: I said that the figures I unemployed people of this State? In her quoted are for March, but the figures released Budget Speech, the Treasurer said— recently are no better. It is no use saying "It's "Despite the improvement, reduction your fault" or "It's our fault." We have to ask in unemployment will be limited by high what we are going to do as a nation and as a labour force growth and a relatively high State to help these kids. workforce participation rate, underpinned For an unemployed person who is under by interstate migration . . ." 18-years-old the unemployment benefit is $140.80 a week. A first year apprentice's wage If one reads between the lines, the Treasurer is approximately $200 a week. did not say what the Government will do about unemployment. The Treasurer stated that an Mr Pearce: For the first year, $190. estimated 45,000 new jobs will be created in Mr NUTTALL: These figures may not be Queensland, but she did not say how those 100 per cent accurate, but they are fairly jobs will be created or where they will be close. I am indicating what we as a nation can created. All that the Treasurer said about do for young unemployed people. Therefore, young people was— having a job and not having a job amounts to "The State's focus will be on a difference of between $50 and $60 for an providing structured vocational training to 18-year-old. If an apprentice earns enhance the skills of the unemployed— approximately $200 a week, he or she will pay particularly the young. tax so the gap narrows. Our priority is to develop skills and Every small town and regional centre in expertise and to create a business the country has a plumber, an electrician, a environment which supports the creation mechanic, a carpenter and maybe even a of genuine long-term jobs." sawmill and other small industries. In the last 20 years, how many of those small businesses The Government is saying, "We want to send employed young apprentices? The answer kids off to TAFE and hopefully small business has to be that none of them have done so, will pick up the slack and employ some kids." because they cannot afford to. Apprentices That is not a good enough approach to spend 12 weeks of the year at college, they dealing with the problem of long-term have four weeks' holiday and there are about unemployment and particularly, as I have said, two weeks of public holidays a year. Therefore, youth unemployment. for about one-quarter of the year, an The situation with youth unemployment apprentice is not available for work and is not depends on what figures one looks at, very productive. That is why many businesses because the figures vary fairly widely. I have will not employ apprentices, and one can the March 1996 figures from the Australian understand that. Therefore, we should be Bureau of Statistics. The number of young subsidising those employers. We should be people—that is, persons aged between 15 saying to them, "We will send the kids to a and 19 years—seeking full time work was 27.8 prevocational course for the first 12 months. per cent. That is a national disgrace! As When they come out, they will start on their members of Parliament, we cannot accept an second-year apprenticeship and we will help unemployment rate of 27.8 per cent. In with the wages." Once the apprentices have Queensland, the unemployment rate was 26.3 finished the prevocational work, they no longer per cent. The rate by region, rounded off, was: have to go to college and the kids are Brisbane, 21 per cent; South and East available for work for the next three years. Moreton, 19 per cent; North and West Why are we as a nation not addressing Moreton, 17 per cent; the Wide Bay/Burnett that issue? Why are we as a nation not trying area, 24 per cent; Darling Downs and the to encourage businesses to employ young South West, 20 per cent; Mackay, Fitzroy and apprentices? Not all of our young people have the Central West, 18 per cent; the Northern the capacity to go on to tertiary education, and and North West, 28 per cent; and the Far there simply are not enough positions anyway. North, 15.3 per cent. Do we leave those young people by the What job opportunities exist for the young wayside? As a State, we have an obligation to people who live in the regions and what does look after young unemployed people. We the future hold for them? The future holds very need to take the bull by the horns. We need little, because we in this country are not lateral to be innovative and lateral in our thinking. We enough in our thinking. need to give young people hope and encouragement. We need to create programs A Government member interjected. and encourage businesses to employ young 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2931 people. We need to encourage young people payment in addition to more than $13,000 to take up the challenge and take on those worth of accommodation and locality benefits. apprenticeships. As a State, we cannot stand At this stage, I am uncertain as to what strings back and watch youth unemployment rates are attached and how teachers feel about the continue to grow without making some effort package, but it would appear that the package to address the issue. It is up to the for teachers in extremely remote areas is Government to start that program, and we will reasonable. support such a program. The Government However, regions rated as being the least must take the issue by the horns and accept remote have had only a bandaid applied to the challenge. make it appear that teachers and schools in Mr PEARCE (Fitzroy) (2.50 p.m.): In those areas have done well. The department joining this debate, let me say firstly that, in has failed to recognise that teachers in the common with the many previous speakers less remote areas live in high-cost towns, such from the Opposition, I agree that the Budget as Dysart, Middlemount, Tieri and Blackwater. papers are lacking in detail. This year, I have Because those towns are cold towns—and a looked for programs in which the people of my lot of people fail to understand this—the cost electorate are interested. Such programs are of living is in excess of 10 per cent higher than either not in the documents or lack detail. That that in the regional centres of Rockhampton is unacceptable. Budget papers are public and Mackay. documents and should be reader friendly so The department has failed to properly that information contained therein can be maintain accommodation, and many units and understood easily. homes are in desperate need of cooling Before dealing with the Budget papers, I mechanisms and a coat of paint. The morale point out that I support the comments of the of teachers working in those towns would be member for Rockhampton in this place greatly enhanced if they had a clean, yesterday—and, to be fair, the member for airconditioned and properly maintained place Keppel made similar comments—with respect of residence to go home to. It should be to the sacking of the five or six Youth remembered that those teachers are living Employment Scheme workers in away from their family and friends. Unlike the Rockhampton. Today, I am advised that the decision makers in Brisbane, who go home to same thing has happened to employees their own environment after a day's work, under that scheme in Emerald. The Minister these people have to go home to has a total disregard for those workers and the accommodation that is not being maintained. wonderful job they have done for young That affects the way they think and perform people who feel that they have been cast their work. The $2,000 incentive is a step aside by society. forward. I accept that and congratulate the Government for doing it. However, that falls Every member in this House who is fair well short of what I would expect as being a dinkum about helping the young people of this fair deal for the teachers in my area. State to find work should condemn the actions of the Minister in taking away those I have a couple of questions about this professionals who offer the young issue. In a press statement dated 9 unemployed some hope. I know some of September, the Minister claimed that there will those workers personally. They are more be $5.6m for the enhancement of the Remote compassionate and understanding than the Area Incentives Scheme. The way I read Minister and the Treasurer. The Minister has it—and I may stand to be corrected—the not only destroyed those dedicated workers; current Budget allocates this scheme $2.2m. he has also given the youth of Emerald, This Budget allocates a further $2.3m. To me, Rockhampton and district a real kick in the there is a $1.1m shortfall. There is no money backside. Those people will not forget the way in the Budget for new teacher in which they have been treated. accommodation, except for two houses in the Torres Strait. I believe that the funding for In addressing the Budget, I wish firstly to those houses was rolled over because of touch on the Remote Area Incentives native title concerns. I want to know why the Scheme. It is acknowledged that a recognition RAIS has been increased at the expense of of the problems we are experiencing in teacher accommodation, which is an important attracting rural Queensland has meant that factor in attracting teachers to remote areas. the Remote Area Incentives Scheme has Certainly, some questions have to be gained funding increases. Under the scheme, answered and some guidance given to teachers working in extremely remote schools teachers about where the Government is will get $20,000 cash in hand as an incentive going. 2932 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

On page 7 of Budget Paper No. 2 The impact of this new tax will be reference is made to an environmental measured in kilometres travelled, and oil franchise fee scheme applying to tyres and usage determined by the age and oils. That new tax will apply as from 1 January maintenance standard of vehicles and next year. The revenue raised from this new machinery. The tyre and oil tax is a slug on tax is expected to be in excess of $16m in a every Queenslander who owns a vehicle or full year. New motor vehicles will attract a tax piece of machinery that uses rubber tyres or through a $15 increase in registration at the oil—for example, engines, hydraulics, time of purchase. That is made very clear on transmissions and so on. It is a new tax, and page 43 of Budget Paper No. 2. When we the Treasurer should have the courage to look closely at this new tax, we see that rural admit it. Queenslanders are again the big losers. Page 4 of Budget Paper No. 2 states— Travelling long distances and dealing with the condition of roads in the bush means that "The Government's core fiscal policy country people are more likely to replace tyres parameters are to: more frequently because of wear and tear and keep taxes low . . ." the normal blow-outs and punctures Nothing is mentioned about new taxes, just experienced on country roads. simply keeping taxes low. I believe that the In addition, the burden of finding extra people of Queensland can expect to be hit dollars to meet the cost will fall, firstly, on local with even more new taxes. There is no authorities. I do not think that anyone else has disputing that that new tax is a new tax, and mentioned that. Again, that will impact on that in isolation it is a low tax. However, how taxpayers. Ratepayers will be affected. There many new low taxes will be introduced by this is no comment from the Treasurer as to how Treasurer? I would hope that the intention of mining companies will be affected. The the statement is to keep Queensland a low-tax suggestion by the very "informative" Treasurer State. If that is the case, Government that registered vehicles will not attract the tax members should grab hold of the Treasurer is wide open to abuse. Because of the and keep her under control, or it will not be uncertainty and the lack of information, the long before we become a high-tax State taxpayers of Queensland must be because of the number of taxes imposed. disappointed in the performance of the Page 6 of Budget Paper No. 2 contains Treasurer in respect of her announcing new the statement— taxes but not being able to tell them how they will be administered. "The State's low tax regime clearly is evidenced by the absence of a State fuel Rural producers carting grain and livestock tax." are required to pay the new tax on their trucks However, one could argue that the 10c per and other rubber-tyred farm machinery. The litre oil tax is a Clayton's fuel tax. And what amount is not clear. However, for example, an about the policies of the coalition with respect 18-wheeler could attract up to $120. As I have to a fuel tax? I ask the Treasurer whether it is said, the Budget papers are unclear as to how her intention not to pursue a fuel tax, given this tax will be collected. That raises the that it is coalition policy to pursue the question of how this tax is to be managed and equalisation of fuel prices. That would mean a how the Government will be held accountable fuel tax for the more populous south-east to its claim that the monies will be used corner. specifically for the disposal of waste tyres and oils. Members of the National Party should be insisting, as I am, that the Treasurer pursue Constituents have asked why they should coalition policy, which would give rural pay a tax to assist with the disposal of tyres Queenslanders a reduced fuel price. I just and waste oils when no similar tax applies to wonder whether the Treasurer was testing the wastepaper, glass and plastics. People believe water when she flagged a fuel tax on page 54 the tyre manufacturers should accept the of the Budget papers, where it is pointed out responsibility of disposal, not the consumer. that such a tax would be worth—get We will certainly need to watch the this—$340m to Queensland. The temptation Government closely for the outcomes of the may be too great for our Treasurer. She scheme and to ensure that the revenue raised should be giving a commitment to the people from the tax goes into the proper disposal of of Queensland in this Parliament by rejecting tyres and oils and is not redirected into paying any suggestion that she is considering a fuel off the tollway or investing in the stock market. tax. 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2933

I say this in just about every speech I remains as it was prior to Moura. It is time to make: as a former coalminer, I appreciate the deliver, and the Treasurer must meet the contribution made to the—— challenge. Mr Lester: You were a good coalminer. I am aware of the Government's commitment of $1 billion over 15 years for Mr PEARCE: I was a good coalminer. I water infrastructure. I support this initiative and had a good reputation. I appreciate the look forward to rhetoric being turned into contribution made to the Queensland infrastructure. An amount of $99.2m has been economy by the mining industry. Total mining allocated towards the assessment, planning royalties in the 1996-97 year are estimated to and construction of water resources. As I increase by 2.3 per cent on 1995-96 to represent a large rural electorate, I am very $270.8m. Coal is expected to account for 66 much aware of the need to have a vision for per cent of the total royalties. This means that the future demand for water, both for domestic the Queensland coal industry delivers millions and primary production use. I recently of dollars to the State's revenue—close to supported in principle a submission for a weir $300m in the current financial year. This is why on the Fitzroy River near Gogango which was I get really angry when I see Treasury officers prepared by prominent and respected finding every excuse not to find funding for the landowners in the area who must be Mining Inspectorate, the Mines Rescue congratulated on looking ahead. Brigade and other measures to ensure the health and safety of workers within the I have been vocal in calling for the industry. This lack of funding really is a joke, construction of a pipeline from the Fitzroy River and it is about time coal industry employers to Mount Morgan to enhance that town's and employees got a better deal from continuity of water supply. When there are Government in these areas. I am pleased that extended dry periods like the current drought the Minister is here, because it would help him conditions, the town's water supply is put if he got more money. I will talk further about under extreme pressure. If we had not had a that during the Estimates hearings, not here. significant rain event in the small catchment area of one of the town's supply dams earlier The safety of mine workers should be a this year, we could have been in the position funding priority of Government, not an excuse now in which the Government would be carting to hand responsibility to other bodies which far water to the town. I know that the town Mayor, too often fail. On reading the Department of Ritchie Bills, is lobbying the Government for Mines and Energy Program Structure and funds to raise the level of the town's No. 7 Overview Statement, I noted a $1.3m dam. While this approach has merit, I believe reduction in the Consolidated Fund budget. it is a bandaid fix to a long-term problem. This reduction causes me great concern given There are no long-term benefits from this that the department will soon be required to costly exercise, and if there is no significant find in excess of $2m to implement the rainfall in what is a very small catchment area findings and recommendations of committees then the town is no better off. Even if the dam working on reviews following the 1994 disaster. were to be replenished annually, it would only There is not one line item in the budget to meet current demand. If the Government and meet these expected costs. I can only the council are fair dinkum, they have to look presume that the Treasurer has the money further than that. Under this proposal, Mount hidden away in a purse somewhere in her Morgan ratepayers will not get a quality water office. supply that enhances continuity of the As the coalminers' representative in this resource. Without an enhanced supply, the place, I warn the Treasurer of a major town is limited as to its potential growth. There backlash if there are no funds. The Treasurer are people in the town who support the must understand that the coal industry bandaid approach because they stand to gain expects her to move as quickly in providing the financially through what will be promoted as a necessary dollars for the restructured Mining significant increase in storage capacity, and Inspectorate and other measures arising from they can therefore justify land development. the Moura inquiry as she did in finding the I urge the Government to look seriously at money to remove the Sunshine Motorway the benefits to the district which a pipeline tolls. I can assure the Treasurer that the would provide. Gracemere, a rapidly growing industry, and I as its representative in this centre, is under pressure to upgrade its water place, will be looking for the dollars as soon as supply. Bouldercombe is expected to have a the Minister for Mines and Energy tables this population of 3,000 around the turn of the report. This process has gone on for too long. century and will require a reliable supply. The frequency and quality of mine inspections Stanwell and Kabra will expand if they have 2934 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 reliable water delivered to the area. My repairs to fencing, walls, seating and port racks suggestion of a pipeline is one of vision, and are also required in schools within the one that should be supported by the local electorate. governments of Rockhampton, Fitzroy and There are other areas in which the State Mount Morgan. The $25m price tag of today Government has to act. The refurbishment of will escalate threefold if the Government older schools such as Allenstown should be a leaves this pipeline to a later date. I am priority. Shaded areas and new toilet blocks at adamant that the pipeline will be a reality, and schools such as Bouldercombe are works that I intend to continue to pursue this option so I will continue to pursue, for I am committed to long as I am in a position to do so. I have the principle of the Government supporting spoken to the Minister, Howard Hobbs, about school communities as much as possible. If it the pipeline and have urged him to think is reasonable for school P & Cs and local carefully about this matter, to spend tax dollars communities to work for and contribute to wisely so that the maximum benefit can be schools for the benefit of children, it is achieved for future generations settling in the reasonable to expect the Government to lend district. Mr Hobbs must be careful and not a hand. The parents of students attending make the mistake of letting party politics schools in my electorate know that they have influence his decision. I expect him to come my support in improving the school under plenty of pressure to do so. Outcomes environment for their children. If they are of cost-effective, long-term benefits are unhappy with anything at their local school, essential in determining what is best for the they know that they can approach me with the district. problem. While considering the Education budget, I With respect to airconditioning—it is clear wish to take this opportunity to pay tribute to from the Budget that the Government has Q-Build employees in the Capricornia and committed $65m over three years to the Mackay/Whitsunday regions who service the airconditioning of schools in north 30-odd State schools in the Fitzroy electorate. Queensland. The Government must now Their commitment and quality of work is make a real commitment to expanding the commendable. Principals are telling me that airconditioning program to schools outside the Q-Build employees are courteous and go out designated area. of their way to cooperate with school programs when maintenance and construction works are Mr Ardill: Which are often hotter. being carried out at the schools. There are Mr PEARCE: They are often hotter. I always hiccups in the system but, in the main, welcome the initiative, but now insist that the schools are most appreciative of the good Government look closely at schools work undertaken by Q-Build employees. It throughout central Queensland. Many inland would be a disgraceful move by the State schools are poorly designed and, during Government if it were to privatise Q-Build and summer, are like ovens. There is no way this put the committed tradesman out of work and does not impact on the ability of children to onto the streets. But given the record of this learn. Perhaps the Education Minister would Government, sacking Q-Build employees will like to tell the students of schools in towns be a simple move lacking in compassion. I throughout central Queensland why they are therefore call on the Minister to confirm or not eligible for airconditioning when they are deny that it is the Government's intention to stewing in summer temperatures well over 40 sack more workers by privatising Q-Build. degrees. Now that the Government has kicked off its program of airconditioning, it must I will continue to work with Q-Build to continue to expand the program so as to deliver maintenance and repair works to demonstrate its moral position. Airconditioning schools within the Fitzroy electorate. Through must be put into schools on a needs basis, discussions with school principals, P & Cs and not as an election gimmick to win seats for Q-Build, I have identified a wide variety of coalition candidates. Again, I support the minor maintenance and upgrade needs, initiative, but I call on the Government to show ranging from repaints internally and externally just how fair dinkum it is about equality by to replacement of floor coverings, replacement announcing a time frame for the expansion of of doors and guttering, replacement of the airconditioning in schools program. furniture, landscaping, concrete paving and repainting of swimming pools. Some of this Time expired. work has been commenced and completed Mr HARPER (Mount Ommaney) since the beginning of the Budget year. Works (3.10 p.m.): It is with pleasure that I rise to such as the replacement of equipment in take part in this debate. In doing so, I first of manual arts blocks and other works such as all compliment the Treasurer and all Ministers 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2935 on the excellent job they have done in putting people have said to me that something together what is without doubt a very positive needed to be done about the waiting lists that and responsible Budget. It will set the scene had grown under Labor, the closed wards and for Queensland to once again move forward. the operating theatres no longer used. In the There are many positives in the Budget for the Budget, the Health Minister has continued people I proudly represent in Mount addressing this problem and we are already Ommaney, both in direct matters and in seeing the results. I compliment the Minister overall issues, which will benefit both the on that. All Queenslanders will benefit from the residents of Mount Ommaney and better health system. We are getting back to Queenslanders as a whole. It clearly shows decent waiting lists and getting back to that this is the work of caring Ministers intent essential operations being undertaken when on delivering services to the people. I would they are needed. also like on this occasion to congratulate the Another area of much importance to all Treasurer on being the first woman to deliver a the community is police. I am very pleased to Queensland Budget. see within the $26m Capitals Works Program It is well documented that, after six and a for Police the funding for the land and half years of Labor Government, Queensland planning of the Centenary Station at the new was asset rich but cash poor. Members and proper site. The Police budget also opposite had plundered reserves and every includes funding for 800 extra police and 400 fund they could find to try to falsely balance civilians over the next three years, which is their efforts at Budgets in the past. essential. The Government is addressing the Mr Livingstone: You don't believe that. matter of bringing law and order back under control in this State. I know that my Mr HARPER: Despite this, they continue constituents will be pleased to see the to refuse, as the member's comments show, introduction of these measures that will curb to recognise and admit to the fact that they the increase in crime and the breakdown in left us with an underlying deficit of $180m law and order over the past few years. which, if not addressed responsibly, would continue to grow and eventually cripple Another essential element of any Queensland. This Government has faced up community is education and schools. Within to that responsibility, tackling the need to the Mount Ommaney electorate, I am very make cuts and savings. The Government has pleased to see a subsidy of $75,000 for the also had to address Labor's health overruns activities building at the Jindalee State School and its unfunded liability problems in the and $350,000 for the visually impaired unit at Workers Compensation Fund. Added to this the Jamboree Heights School. This is a very were the Commonwealth cuts, and still the good program which is very much welcomed Treasurer has brought in a balanced Budget. by the staff and the school community at The Budget is strong on delivering essential Jamboree Heights. Further, the Budget allows services and providing much needed for $150,000 for a construction compound at infrastructure. the Oxley State High School. I welcome those Mr Livingstone: You have got more inputs within the Education budget. money. The funding given for teachers will impact Mr HARPER: The member for Ipswich on schools in my electorate and other places. West says that we got more money but, just It is very pleasing to see funding for well over as his shadow Treasurer did a few days ago, 900 extra teachers. Of course, that funding he has refused to recognise the increase in includes $6.9m for behavioural management inflation in the last 12 months and the programs and an extra $12.1m for children population growth in Queensland. Surely with disabilities. From the comments I have members opposite realise that these matters received when I have moved around the must be taken into account. Once again, they community in the last year as the member and refuse to admit that. before that as a candidate, I know that those moves will be very welcomed. I turn to a number of specific issues. As I said at the outset, whether these issues There is record capital works funding directly impact on my electorate of Mount within the Education budget of $333m and Ommaney or not, they have an overall impact there is also funding for programs and an overall benefit. The first matter of strengthening numeracy and literacy initiatives. importance I wish to mention is the Health There is $5.4m in funding for the reading budget. There is a $733m boost to the Health recovery teachers which allows for an budget over the next 10 years. That boost was additional 120 part-time teachers and seven essential. Before the last election and since, tutors. It is good to see that these important 2936 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 issues are being addressed responsibly by this puzzles me, because I quite happily made an Government. As well as that, given the rate of appointment to see a delegation of three increase in the reliance on technology in union representatives in my office. I put aside society, the Government's move within the an hour and a half for it. On the appointed Education budget to allow schools access to hour and day, only one of those people turned the Internet and linking all schools to the up, and I quite happily sat with that person for Schools Information Management System an extensive time discussing the issues. I and providing the necessary computers is canvassed all of the points with that lady and certainly welcomed. I am sure it will benefit the told her that I would carry the issues raised by students and the staff, all of whom applaud her through to the Minister, which I did, and I these sorts of moves. Their dedication in those quite happily said that I would see her again or areas will be backed up by this funding. see other representatives on the issue. I was As a member who represents part of the never contacted again, and then I saw that I western area of Brisbane stretching out as far supposedly did not respond. If that is not as the electorate of Ipswich West—and we responding, I do not know what is. had some interjections from the member for This advertisement is purely another dirty Ipswich West a little while ago—I am pleased political trick, obviously backed by the to see the $4.4m funding for the Ipswich members opposite, trying to make political university site. That will be welcomed both capital out of something that is entirely false. I from the educational and employment points received that delegation at my office and I of view. Many of my constituents will make use discussed the issue with the lady who turned of that university site once it is constructed. up, yet this advertisement says that I did not Another important initiative within the respond to them. What sort of response do Education budget is the $4m allocation for the they want? It is obvious that they are only after Make Shade Program. Fortunately, over political capital. I think they really ought to recent years all parties, all Governments and address truth in some of the things they say. It all in the community have recognised the rather reminds me of the severe campaign the need to protect both young people and older Labor Party ran in my own electorate, and people from the effects of severe sunshine. It others, during the election in regard to selling is good to see the backing within the schools hospitals. Here we go again with a similar program to allow the children to be outside but campaign. protected from the sun. The Budget is I move on to another essential sector certainly strong on delivering the essential which this Government firmly backs and services and providing much needed supports, that is, families. I am pleased that infrastructure in those areas. the Budget includes funding for the While I am dealing with the Education establishment of a community-based child- budget, I would also like to mention the care centre at Oxley. I welcome that. I also Remote Area Incentive Scheme. I am very welcome other initiatives within this section of pleased to see the boost in funding from the the Budget which give strong support to the present $2.2m to $5.6m next year and to family unit and those who are within a family $8.1m the following year. That will increase the situation—be they two parents or one current 500 teachers to 2,500 teachers. As parent—in relation to caring for and looking one who is well and truly familiar with life in the after their children. country—and in fact I have had relatives who have been teachers in remote areas—I well The Budget also addresses an issue in and truly understand and appreciate the need relation to the Seniors Card whereby the for those sorts of schemes. I am sorry to have means test free age has been brought down to make the following comment during my from 70 years to 65 years for those not in full- speech in regard to that. I refer to an time employment. I know that many senior advertisement placed by the Queensland citizens in my electorate and elsewhere will Teachers Union that listed the members who welcome that move. supposedly supported the RAIS scheme, This section of the Budget also addresses those who were not willing to give support and many issues relating to women's services and those who did not respond to the union. I was maintains strong support for them. It also surprised to find my own name listed amongst gives much-needed assistance and backing to those who did not respond. people with disabilities. Members have heard I understand that this advertisement was the Minister discuss the hotline services, which posted on notice boards within teachers' are already working, the Children's rooms, etc., at different schools. It really Commissioner, and the upgrade of outside 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2937 school hours care services. I certainly welcome prisons in the electorate bordering mine, that those initiatives within the Budget. is, the expansion of the men's prison and the As to small business—this Government is women's prison. As to their location and committed to assisting small business. This is various other aspects—I discussed this issue demonstrated by the inclusion in the Budget with the Minister when he was the Opposition of the International Development Program, spokesman, and I have raised it with him since establishing the Queensland Trade Assistance he has been the relevant Minister. I have his Scheme and the Investment Attraction assurance that they will not move any closer to Program. I certainly well and truly recognise housing within my electorate, and that the the need to support small business in our various concerns that people rightly have will community, as does the Government and the be responsibly addressed to ensure that there Minister. Small business is an essential part of are no problems. our everyday life, and it is certainly an Mr Palaszczuk: They won't be using essential part of employment. The the original site that was chosen back in 1988. Government will continue—as it has shown in Mr HARPER: They certainly will not be this Budget—to recognise and support that. using that original site that was planned in the In relation to policies for women—we eighties. Despite the deceptive advertising by recognise well and truly their contribution in all my predecessor in my electorate, who tried to facets of life. I congratulate the Treasurer on allude to that during the last two days of the her Budget statement on women's affairs. election campaign, I can assure the people of Within the area of the arts, the Budget my electorate that that will not be the case. commitments clearly show that this coalition I move on to ethnic affairs. This is a Government is committed to nurturing and subject for which I have a lot of feeling. As I supporting the arts to ensure that it reaches its have said in this place many times, I am very full potential and can then fill a very important proud of the background of many of the place in all our daily lives. people whom I represent. In recognition of the Within the environment and conservation importance to all Queenslanders of our ethnic sector, the Budget refocuses on the communities, the Bureau of Ethnic Affairs was fundamentals, ensuring that we properly transferred to the Premier's Department, manage and resource national parks, and where it could better coordinate the efforts of fosters responsible environmental practices. I all departments. With this Budget the bureau am very pleased at that, especially as there now receives additional funds. I am very are a number of important environmental pleased with that. I am also pleased about the issues in the Mount Ommaney electorate. diversity of people's backgrounds in my These include the Oxley Creek problems. A electorate, because I firmly believe that it very dedicated band of people is working to makes our community richer. I will finish on restore that creek to its former condition and that very important point and simply say "Well make it suitable for people to use for done" to the Treasurer and commend the recreation, etc. There is also the No Name Budget to the House. Creek at Jindalee, and another which I am Mr DOLLIN (Maryborough) (3.27 p.m.): I sure my neighbour the member for Inala will rise to address this $13.5 billion State record share with me. He has it, but I have the effects spending Budget—a $2 billion increase on the of the Darra cement works. This Government last Goss Labor Government Budget, which will continue to back those issues which are was brought down in May 1995. This record very important to the everyday life of all people expenditure was made possible by the in our electorates. previous Labor Government's good Mr Palaszczuk: The cement works will management of the State's finances. Mrs close down shortly. Sheldon started off with $1.35 billion in kitty, nearly $700m in dividends from State Mr HARPER: It will indeed. I certainly corporations, such as insurance and building welcome that. I share that thought well and society giant Suncorp, and railway enterprises truly with the member for Inala. It affects both which this Government is trying very hard to his and my constituents. sell off. One wonders why. Apart from that, Mr Palaszczuk: Good for both of our Mrs Sheldon has been raking out every hollow electorates. Unfortunately, the two new prisons log in the Treasury. that are going to be built won't be very good I am pleased that Education, Health and for your electorate. Police have received additional funding. That Mr HARPER: I welcome that comment should allow those three very important from the member for Inala about the two new departments to cope with the State's 2938 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 population growth. They will need every cent way of funding are recycled programs and to achieve that. It should be clear to all that funding from the Goss Labor Government this Government did not inherit a State in Budget brought down in 1995. I will give an financial ruin, as Premier Borbidge and the example: the $0.2m to finalise refurbishment Treasurer, Mrs Sheldon, have tried very hard of the community health building at the to sell to people over the past six months. The Maryborough Base Hospital. That building was fact is that they inherited the wealthiest State completed in March 1996 and was funded by economy in Australia. This record spending the Goss Government. Redevelopment of the Budget proves that. Maryborough Hospital, which is expected to However, I want to see this funding cost $15.2m, was a Goss Labor Government spread evenly across the State. I hope that we program to be completed over three are not going to go back to the bad old days years—$9m was made available for this year under the Nationals, when Government and about $3m has been expended. Again, members got all the loot and Labor that is a case of Labor money being recycled. electorates got the crumbs. I also do not want As to the funding of $0.5m to complete to see the great bulk of funding end up in the the refurbishment of the Maryborough villas for south-east corner of the State, as I am afraid it the intellectually disabled—more than might, at the expense of rural and regional $350,000 has been spent on this project, so Queensland. I believe that having both the again, that is recycled money. An $800,000 Premier and the Treasurer living in the south- ambulance station was planned and financed east corner of the State does not augur well by the previous Government. Tenders were in for the rest of the State. place and the contracts should have been let Whereas I give credit for all I see as good in June for completion next month. It has not in this Budget, I do not by any means believe been started because the Minister for that it is a good Budget. I note the assistance Emergency Services has been sitting on the to rural communities, which will receive some tenders so that the funding could be included relief in regard to land tax. That is good. I also in this Budget. That is another $800,000 note the continuation of the previous recycled. As to education and the funding of Government's drought relief schemes. Small $450,000 for the Mungar State School business will gain a little from the increase in classroom—that building was finished last the payroll tax threshold to $800,000 and the June and has been in use since then. reduction of the rate to 5 per cent. Maryborough has received no funding in this Budget; it is just a recycling of the previous However, I believe that those concessions Government's funds. What a fraud, what do little to assist what I call small business in deceit! This Government is treating the people our area, as very few employ 40 employees of the Maryborough electorate with contempt. and only those that employ more than 40 employees or pay in excess of $800,000 in I will give a very brief overview of the wages have to pay the tax. It is good to see funding that Maryborough received for that this Government is following Keith De Education under previous Labor Government Lacy's lead of reducing the payroll tax Budgets: Albert State School, $330,000; threshold with each Budget until it is Aldridge State High School, $1,967,078; Brooweena State School, $140,000; abolished. That tax was introduced many Glenwood State School, $240,000; Granville years ago by the Nationals and it will be a State School, $464,000; Gunalda State good thing for our economy to be without it as School, $404,000; Maryborough Central it is a deterrent to employment. School, $530,000; Maryborough West State The announcement in Parliament School, $558,000; Mungar State School, yesterday by the Minister for Training and $297,000; Theebine State School, $119,000; Industrial Relations, Mr Santoro, will not please Tiaro State School, $135,000; Tinana State many small businesses, in view of his promise School, $300,000; grants to the previously to them in the run-up to the last election that neglected P & Cs, $411,000; Maryborough he was going to assist in changing trading College of TAFE, $12m; and St Mary's Primary hours. But, of course, he is going to stick with School, $166,000. Under this Budget not one hours as they are now. The small-business cent was allocated for State schools capital operators will not be overjoyed by that assistance. Not one cent! decision. Does the Government think that the This is my seventh Budget for people of Maryborough are gullible and stupid Maryborough and, without a shadow of doubt, enough to swallow the deceit perpetrated in it is absolutely the worst by a mile. In fact, this Budget? I can tell honourable members almost everything Maryborough received by that they are not. They are already saying in 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2939

Maryborough, "What a fraud!" I ask the reinstate the 140 units. Why on earth would Minister: where's my ambulance station, Mick? any Government want to sell off that asset. To add insult to injury, this deceitful Surely the citizens of Maryborough should be Budget had added to it credit for the Walkers allowed a voice in that decision before that Engineering $62m tilt train contract, which was $4m complex is lost to them. I ask the Minister signed between the Goss State Government to please reconsider the matter carefully and EDI Walkers in 1994. This coalition before he makes the final decision. Government is trying to cuddle that project into I draw to the attention of the Minister for its Budget. The contract for the Brisbane to Police, the Honourable Mr Cooper, that for the the Gold Coast train was signed and sealed first time in over 100 years the Maryborough long before this Government bribed its way Police Station has had to close its doors at 4 into office. In 1989, Walkers of Maryborough p.m. every day due to an acute shortage of was employing 320 workers; today it employs staff. The citizens of Maryborough who require 750 workers—that is more than double. service after 4 p.m. have to cope with a voice Walkers did well under Labor over the past six monitor by which they talk through the door. I years, receiving hundreds of millions of dollars remind the Honourable Minister that, in the in Government contracts. Let us watch what lead-up to the last State election, he came to happens under this Government. I am Maryborough regularly, telling all and sundry surprised that the Government has not how terribly understaffed we were, and how he claimed the $100m over 10 years Owanyilla would increase the staff if he were elected. chip mill contract that is up and running and Things have deteriorated dramatically since he earning $12m a year in exports and employing took office. The station is closed at 4 p.m. The 80 people. That was an initiative of the Goss criminal element think he is the greatest; they Labor Government. Those are the sorts of have never had such free rein. It is about time Budgets that I was used to. this Minister did something about law and The deceit goes on. After viewing this order than just talk. I noticed not one word in Budget, it is easy to understand why this the Budget about extra police officers for our Government was able to increase expenditure region—not one extra police officer! We by $2 billion. Through its freeze, it held onto urgently need 10 additional officers in the funding of at least that amount from the Maryborough to get anywhere near what the Goss Labor Government Budget brought community expects of our police services. down in May 1995 and recycled it into this This is the first time in seven Budgets that Budget. It is as simple that. No wonder Maryborough has received no funding for Queensland has been in a state of suspended capital works in schools. We just do not get a animation for the past six months. mention. To put it in a nutshell, we do not get Maryborough and district businesses have one cent over and above what has been put died over that period and they will take some on hold from the May 1995 Budget. In winding up again. Perhaps the citizens of Housing, Minister Connor has blatantly stolen Maryborough and I should be thankful that at $3m in funding from Maryborough—eight units least the Borbidge/Sheldon Government is from North Street, units from the corner of finishing the programs that came out of the Sussex and Tooley Streets and funding for the Goss Labor Budget in 1995. The Minister for upgrading of the Jupiter Street pensioner Health has given an undertaking that he will units. He admits that he transferred some of see the health programs through and I thank the money to the south-east corner, even him for that. some to his own electorate, so we have a However, I will not thank him if he allows misuse of Housing funding of $3m. This is not the 140 cottages and units at the Wahroonga a good Budget. It is probably the worst from public retirement village to be closed. I ask him any Government ever, as we gained nothing to allow the citizens of our region to be able to new in the funding and lost $3m in Housing. take advantage of that facility that has served That leaves Maryborough minus $3m from this the region well for over 30 years. I ask the Budget. Minister to inspect those premises personally. Some projects are slow getting started or If he will do that, I am sure that he will agree are not mentioned in the Budget. I will list with me that they are not falling down and are them quickly for honourable members—a not unfit for use. I can assure the Minister that community sporting complex, $1m—we many of our elderly pioneers who are climbing expected that to be in this Budget because we two flights of stairs to reach the rooms in missed out on it in the last Budget and it was hotels and many others living in high-blocked promised to be considered in this Budget; an town houses would consider that extra 10 police officers—the Budget offers accommodation five star. It would cost $4m to none; Gunalda Range Road—we received 2940 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 great promises from Mr Warren Truss, the country so that he can look after his big Federal member for Maryborough, that once cotton-farming mates. Every bit of information the coalition was elected both State and about the effects of cotton farming on the Federally it would be only a matter of his Cooper points to a total disaster not only for snapping his fingers, yet not a word of that environmental reasons but also for the clean, project mentioned in the Budget, so I hope green image of the cattle industry, which that that does not mean that the project will would be put in jeopardy. In view of that, I ask not go ahead; a high school at Tinana—we this Government and, in particular the Minister purchased land for that, provided further for Natural Resources, Mr Hobbs, to keep their financing and it looked like we would be cotton-picking fingers off the Cooper before having a new school there over the next four they turn it into an environmental disaster, as or five years, but there is nothing in the has occurred with the Murray/Darling system. Budget for that; school shading—there is Under this Government, Queensland's $500m nothing in the Budget for that; Public Service timber industry is under threat from two and Consumer Affairs—Maryborough had an directions. One is the Government's policy of officer and an assistant but the officer was selling off the people's forest—forestry—to sent to Brisbane and the assistant now works private enterprise. In other words, it is the only four hours a day. Government's policy to privatise our State- The regional office of the Education owned timber resources. The managing Department is under the threat of losing 100 director of the Queensland Timber Board, Mr jobs through this scheme of putting officers in Rob McInnes, had this to say about the the schools to do whatever they are going to policy— do. However, probably the most blatant "Country communities where many of broken promise of all was that, in the industry's 22,000 employees live Maryborough, Mr Borbidge and Mrs Sheldon would be the hardest hit. Wholesale said that they had held a shadow Cabinet privatisation of native forests would mean meeting and promised $3m for the community mills closing and massive dislocation of centre in Maryborough. It is not in the Budget. workers in rural Queensland." It cannot get an appointment. Mr McInnes is right. It is probable that under Honourable members may be aware of this policy we will see our forests taken over by recent proposal to introduce irrigated cotton foreign multinationals which are profit driven farming to the Coopers Creek area in the and would not give a damn about timber Channel Country in south-west Queensland. workers' jobs in the Wide Bay or anywhere That has caused much concern in that else. The cypress belt, which is the heartland community. The environment movement, the of the National Party, would be the hardest hit. cattle industry, the Coopers Creek Protection Quite often, sawmills are the only secondary Group, which is representing local residents industries that keep many small rural towns and every cattle property on the Cooper, and alive. The member for Gladstone should be the Queensland Conservation Council, which concerned about this move because the is representing over 60 environmental groups Boyne Valley is located within her electorate across Queensland, are absolutely opposed to and privatisation would most probably destroy any irrigation development on Coopers Creek. the Builyan mill, which is located in that area. There are many reasons why the Cooper Privatisation is not the only threat that is basin is unsuitable for cotton farming. I would facing the timber industry. In this House, both say that those members opposite who have the Minister for Natural Resources, the knowledge of the bush would not need to be Honourable Howard Hobbs, and the Minister told of those reasons. The Cooper is one of for Primary Industries, the Honourable Trevor the most variable and unpredictable river Perrett, have admitted that they will sign Prime systems in the world. Its arid-zone Minister Howard's agreement to reserve 15 per characteristics make it unsuitable for irrigation. cent of all native forests existing prior to 1750. Significant environmental values would be put A Government member: They have at risk. There would be health risks associated said no such thing and you know it. with the introduction of chemical pesticides and herbicides to the region. Overall, the Mr DOLLIN: They said that they would cotton industry would have a detrimental sign it if there was a degree of flexibility. A little impact on the cattle industry. while ago, they were not going to sign it at all; they were going to throw in the rubbish bin. After all this, the Minister for Natural They wanted nothing to do with it. Warren Resources, the Honourable Howard Hobbs, Truss came up to Maryborough and said, still wants the plough ripped into this fragile "Don't worry about it, timber boys." He nearly 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2941 threw me out of the meeting. He made all Mr DOLLIN: When do people pay it? these promises. Yet today, this Government is When they buy their tyres or when they pay going to sign the agreement. This their registration? Government is squirming, wriggling and Mr Woolmer: The wholesaler pays it. worming, but it is going to sign the agreement to reserve 15 per cent—with flexibility. Even if Mr DOLLIN: I do not know. I have heard the reserve is 7.5 per cent, it will ruin the the other story. Car registration will be timber industry. Members opposite are a weak increased by $3.60, TAFE fees are up $1 an lot. Every time, they collapse before Howard. I hour and a $3 national park admission fee has bet he pointed a gun at them over the gun been imposed. People who take their wives issue and they all went weak. Again, he is and kids to a park, which has always belonged pointing the gun at them. The other day in this to the people, are going to have to pay $3 a House, Minister Hobbs said, "We are being head for adults. Crikey, what are we coming blackmailed into doing this." Those two to? There has been an increase in child Ministers have been telling whoppers in this adoption fees. I cannot understand that. Why place—really big whoppers. The timber are adoption fees being increased from $400 industry has woken up to what they are on to $5,000? Is it because the Government about. The timber workers worked out pretty does not want to see any kids, who have had quickly what those Ministers were on about. their parents blasted to smithereens and who They can pick those Ministers a mile away. have nowhere to go, boarded out to a decent The Government will sign Prime Minister home to make a women who cannot have Howard's agreement to reserve 15 per cent of children happy? What is the idea behind that? the native forests existing prior to the year Is it a racist issue? Did the Government get 1750. Despite all the promises that those Ted to work that one out? Cigarettes are set to Ministers gave to the timber industry that that rise by 80c a packet. If I were a smoker, I agreement would not be signed, time and would be worried. The bank debits tax will time again they have misled this Parliament. I increase. There is not a lot of joy in this assure those Ministers that the timber workers Budget. There is very little at all. will not forgive them for that. The member for Mr Veivers: You don't smoke or drink. Gladstone needs to watch this matter very Mr DOLLIN: Yes, I am pure. carefully and not take much notice of some of the assurances that she has been given. Both Mr TANTI (Mundingburra) (3.48 p.m.): I of those Ministers have said that they will sign can tell members that I am one of the that agreement that preserves 15 per cent of happiest people in this Parliament. the forests. They have said so. Mr Dollin: It doesn't take much to make All in all, this has been a horror Budget for you happy. Maryborough and the rest of Queensland. I have not one shadow of a doubt that the Mr TANTI: Time will tell. For and on combined Budgets of the State and Federal behalf of the residents of Mundingburra, Governments will have this State's Townsville and Thuringowa, I thank the Deputy unemployment rate over 10 per cent by the Premier—my Liberal Leader—for what was end of the first quarter next year. How can the confirmed in the Budget, albeit that some of unemployment rate be anything else with the projects were already under way. I say to Budgets such as those? How in the hell can the Treasurer that the electorates of employment improve while State and Federal Mundingburra, Townsville and Thuringowa Governments sack thousands of public may now have turned the corner and are on servants? Do they not realise that for every the brink of a great future. Those electorates 1,000 public servants they sack, they lose will want a large increase in funding over the another 200 or 300 jobs? next two Budgets because for too long they were forgotten by previous Governments. I want to touch on a few other matters Those electorates will not rest but continue to that are contained in the Budget. I refer to the lobby for a larger slice of the Budget cake to 10c a litre oil levy. That is going to belt the meet those future needs. It is with pride that workers, and the farmers, probably more than I congratulate the Treasurer, as this is the first anyone else. I refer also to the $3 levy on all Queensland Budget to be presented by a new tyres. How is that going to be charged? woman. As a member of this Parliament, I am No-one has been able to tell me. Are people proud to be involved and to represent my going to pay that levy every time they pay their electorate in the debate on this 1996-97 registration? Does anyone know? Budget—the first budget of the Borbidge/ Mr Woolmer: It's at the wholesale level. Sheldon coalition Government in Queensland. 2942 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

I refer to the Treasurer's Budget Speech Mackay, said that the funds would mean to outline the basis of how the Budget was parents no longer had to take children to received in the electorates of Mundingburra, Brisbane every three months for therapy. "It's Townsville, and Thuringowa. She stated— good to know all the hard work isn't for ". . . this is the 'back to basics nothing," she said. budget'—the basics of ensuring that In another article, headed "Far north wins essential services and infrastructure are out says Mooney", Townsville Mayor, Tony provided to all Queenslanders as Mooney, said that Townsville would enjoy efficiency and effectively as possible. "some wins" from the State Budget. He was It is about repairing the neglect of quoted as saying— recent years—neglect of the basic needs "Generally, the infrastructure of people, and neglect of core issues that subsidies for local government I feel will affect our health, safety and education. be positively received." . . . The Townsville Labor Mayor welcomed the To give credit where credit is due, the State Government's commitment to continue previous Queensland Government played to subsidise environmental licences for small its part, but simply ran off the rails in its businesses, many of which had found the last twelve months in office. prospect of licence fees difficult to face. . . . Another article, headed "Subsidies doubled for sewerage plant", stated that north The coalition Government recognises Queensland councils have welcomed the the need to inject greater confidence into coalition Government's plans to double local the economy and, in particular, to get the government subsidies for new water and private sector moving again. sewerage works under the State Budget. . . . Townsville Mayor, Tony Mooney, said the scheme would be particularly helpful as the This rapidly expanding population city is about to launch into a major water and base requires additional basic social and waste water program. Waste water subsidies economic infrastructure such as schools." will certainly be particularly helpful to Townsville After taking in the meaning of those as we undertake major reuse schemes, some quotes, positive articles from the Townsville of which are already under way at Rowes Bay Bulletin show how well the Budget was and Pallarenda. Thuringowa Mayor, Les Tyrell, accepted, but again I say to the Treasurer that said he was happy with the 40 per cent we require a large slice of the Budget cake in subsidy, a pre-election promise announced at the next two years. One positive article was the recent Local Government Association of headed "Year long campaign pays off", which Queensland conference in Brisbane. told of parents of disabled children who Townsville Enterprise Chief Executive celebrated after a 12-month campaign reaped Officer, Richard Power, described the State rewards in the State Budget. Included in Budget overall as "fairly good". Mr Power said Health funding was $227,000 to improve that $11.7m in funding for the Townsville therapy services in the twin cities for 100 General Hospital over 10 years was welcome. children with moderate to severe disabilities. An increase in funding for tourism promotion, Of the allocation, $185,000 would be available including a boost from $100,000 to $165,000 this shortened financial year. A sum of for regional tourist authorities such as $750,000 has been allocated over three years Townsville Enterprise is extremely welcome. from the Minister for Families, Youth and Community Care, Kev Lingard, to boost Queensland Teachers Union services to maintain and repair aids and representative Ms Duffy has praised the equipment for the disabled. coalition Government's $65m commitment to aircondition schools in north Queensland. Ms Townsville paediatrician Pat Ryan Duffy stated— applauded the Government for keeping its election promise. Dr Ryan and the Townsville "We are pleased to see the Coalition Regional Information and Parent Support Government honour its political Group, TRIPS, mounted a campaign in the commitment to air-condition schools." lead-up to last year's State election to highlight The Remote Area Incentives Scheme received the lack of disability services in the north. an extra $2.3m for outback teachers, who will During the Mundingburra campaign, the receive up to $20,000 a year more each. Ms coalition promised that it would meet the Duffy said that while the incentive scheme group's concerns. TRIPS president, Wendy funding was less than the union had asked 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2943 for, it was a step in the right direction. She Other major capital works include said, "There will be quite a few happy teachers $510,000 to complete a horticultural facility at and parents." the Pimlico TAFE and $1.5m for the Townsville Enterprise Economic construction of a bus interchange at Development Manager, Barrie Lovett, Stockland, with $200,000 to be allocated this welcomed the news that the State financial year. Infrastructure upgrading at the Government will open a trade and investment Townsville port received a $4m boost in the office in Townsville to help local businesses State Budget. This amount includes $1.7m for maximise their export potential and become further work at the eastern port development involved in major projects. The Government for an area that has been leased to BHP for has allocated $174,000 to set up the office. onshore facilities. Port protection information The initiative will provide direct links to the technology projects and the replacement of State Government's secretariats in Japan, vehicles will absorb the remaining $2.3m. Central Java in Indonesia, Papua New Guinea Those statements really show what is and Taiwan. Mr Lovett stated— happening in our electorates. I have a large "It will give access from Townsville to number of further articles and details that I those offices rather than through could continue to read. Brisbane." I remind the Treasurer that Townsville is a The positive reactions continue. In relation can-do city, as stated by Richard Power of to the tyre levy, the North Queensland Townsville Enterprise. It is on the verge of a Conservation Council Coordinator, Jeremy turning point and has a huge future. We will Tager, has stated that it was an appropriate continue to lobby very hard for what is required form of environmental tax. Also, Dr Keyes for those electorates. Townsville has received stated— a Premier's office and Clive Wall has been "The decision to increase funding to appointed as a District Court judge. Many public hospitals, improve mental health initiatives have been put in place for and address service delivery are the most education, health, emergency services, sport, encouraging elements of the health public works and housing, and roads. I could budget. go on, but I do not wish to lengthen the It's getting back to the basics, hands- Budget debate. I will leave it at that. on stuff, and it's very important to see a Mr NUNN (Hervey Bay) (3.58 p.m.): This reversal of the very annoying trend set is a slick and a slippery Budget that has under the previous administration." slithered into the House and oozed its way Some negative statements have been across the floor. Whoever framed the made. Townsville's Labor MPs attacked the Queensland 1996-97 Budget and forgot to coalition for failing to reward the city for show it to the Honourable Joan Sheldon, delivering it Government. Mr McElligott said DipPhty Qld, MAPA, LTCL, MLA, Deputy that there were no new or exciting initiatives for Premier, Treasurer and Minister for The Arts—I his electorate. The following will point out do not know what happened to the title of some items that affect his electorate, and also Warden for the Cinque Ports and Defender of the electorates of Townsville and the Faith, which must have been Mundingburra. Capital works spending is up to forgotten—also forgot something else. They $12.6m. In the next financial year, the capital forgot that if they did not explain it to the works spending on law and order and public honourable member, she would not be able to safety infrastructure will jump a massive answer questions on her own Budget. If $12.67m in the Townsville region. Education anybody thought that those long silences on was the big winner, with funding increasing by television meant that she was communicating $28.58m on the back of the coalition's $65m with the electorate by mental telepathy, they promise to aircondition the north's schools and can think again. She simply did not know what develop the Willows and Deeragun schools. was in the Budget. Total capital works spending in the northern region increased by $19.2m to $278.4m. As a natural consequence of this, the Increased law and order funding in the north DipPhty Qld, MAPA, LTCL, MLA, Deputy was due mainly to the $1.36m development of Premier, Treasurer and Minister for The the Townsville police academy and the $7.2m Arts—henceforth to be known as "DipPhty upgrade of the Cleveland Youth Detention Qld", for the purposes of this speech—was Centre. A sum of $1.7m has been set aside able to come to the same conclusion as the for the Townsville General Hospital to continue rest of us—this is a no nothing, do nothing, no redevelopment of A block. jobs Budget. 2944 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

Mr WOOLMER: I rise to a point of between Hervey Bay and Bundaberg to build order. For the last few weeks the Speaker has bus shelters, and I welcome that. However, I made sure that honourable members of this surely have to protest on behalf of all Chamber are addressed by their appropriate Queenslanders, but in particular on behalf of title. I find those remarks offensive. I believe the people of Hervey Bay, because, when we that the Treasurer should be addressed in the desperately need housing, what do they give proper manner. us? Bus shelters! It is a wonder that they did Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Laming): not give us a sheet of plastic and tell us to use There is no point of order. that when it rains. When the people said, "We need houses", the Government gave them Mr NUNN: Thank you, Mr Speaker. I bus shelters. Marie Antoinette eat your heart suppose that this is an appropriate time to ask out! for your protection against the savage assault made upon me by the member, and I ask that I turn to the area of health. I remind you see that he does not do it again. The honourable members that the Hervey Bay member has one claim to fame, and that is Hospital, which is within about eights weeks of that he is reputed to have circumnavigated the completion at a cost of $42m, is an initiative of world in a barrel. the former Labor Government and the Wide Bay Regional Health Authority. That project What they did not bargain for is that would not have gotten up without the support ordinary Queenslanders—those people who of the Wide Bay Regional Health Authority. do not worry about the big picture, who do not This is the same hospital the building of which know about micro-economics and macro- was opposed by the Minister for Health and economics or cash surpluses or underlying former shadow Health spokesman. He deficits or economic rationalisation, but who do opposed the hospital and now wants to claim know about a fair crack of the whip, and who credit for it by including in the capital works do know about their right to live in dignity, and budget an amount of $23m for its completion. who do know lies and deceit when they hear That hospital is within weeks of being them, and who also know when they are being completed, and the Minister wants to claim the got at, the people of whom the Treasurer is so credit for it. Clearly, the Government has disdainful and dismissive—actually read the cheated on health. newspapers and listen to the news. Some of these people live in public housing or are Mr Dollin: It's called recycled money. waiting to gain occupancy of public housing. Mr NUNN: That is what it is. They know that in the area of public housing they have been dudded. These two tragic The same applies to the police capital coalition Governments—both Queensland and works budget for Hervey Bay. An amount of Federal—cooked up a deal. The Queensland $0.95m is allocated to complete the Government, through Mrs Sheldon, is to pay extensions to the police station and watch- back to the Commonwealth $114m—— house at Hervey Bay. The Hervey Bay Police Station extensions are complete, except for Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! I maybe a bit of landscaping. So complete is remind honourable members to refer to the police station that the police officers members of the House by their Ministry or their occupied the extension about six weeks ago, electorate. yet the Government has included those works Mr NUNN: The Honourable "DipPhty in its Budget. What grand news for the people Qld" simply stripped that money out of the of Hervey Bay! The Government is going to Housing budget. What do honourable give us $0.95m to complete an extension to a members think was the result of that? Let us police station that is already built and take just one region, the region of Wide Bay, occupied. and see what the result is there. The result is a Mr Hamill: Another carryover. lousy commitment of $3.3m to provide public housing to one of the lowest socioeconomic Mr NUNN: I think it is. Government and fastest growing regions in Queensland. members would not know the difference That will provide the magnificent number of 19 between "carryover" and "karioke". houses and 10 units to look after the needs of Not content to cheat the people of Hervey a region which contains the cities of Hervey Bay of much-needed public housing, and not Bay, Maryborough, Bundaberg and Kingaroy, content with cheating the people of Hervey just to name a few. Government members Bay on health, Government members also have no shame. found it necessary to cheat the people of I will admit that this Government is Hervey Bay on policing. However, did they committed to providing $100,000 to be shared stop there? Not on your nelly! This 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2945

Government decided to cheat the people of would venture that they have nothing in their Hervey Bay out of the provision of public heads, either—the article highlights the sleight services by axing another Labor initiative, that of hand engaged in by the Treasurer when is, the provision of over $3m to build a State she conspired with the Minister for Police and Government office block. This is the fastest the Minister for Health to convince us that growing city in percentage terms in the whole Labor's new hospital and police station of Australia. initiatives were really benefits bestowed by the After extensive investigation by staff of coalition. Really, these three Ministers have the Department of Administrative Services, the engaged in the old pea and thimble trick, but site was chosen and the money was allocated the Hervey Bay electors did not come down in in Labor's Accelerated Capital Works Program. the last shower. They know that, with respect Labor recognised the emergence of Hervey to the way in which the Hervey Bay electorate Bay as a city of some significance that would is being treated by this Budget, the pea is not eventually become the major population under any of the thimbles. It is the old shell centre of Wide Bay. Labor kept pace with the game. The editorial states— rapid population growth by supplying the "Has the State Government, as our necessary infrastructure. Labor recognised parliamentary representative Bill Nunn that, if Hervey Bay was to prosper, its growth claims, been indulging in some and development had to be fostered by the prestidigitation in its treatment of Hervey injection of public sector capital works. In six Bay in the Budget? years of Government, Labor demonstrated its Unfortunately, it would appear so. commitment to the fastest growing city in The reams and reams of fax paper Australia by providing a stimulus to its heralding the Government's Budget economy through the provision of employment 'triumphs' which poured into this opportunities and such infrastructure as three newspaper this week contained precious new schools, a new courthouse, a new police little in truly new initiatives for Hervey Bay station, the first 130-bed stage of a new 300- and sought instead to convince us that bed hospital, a community health centre, and what we already had and what had an expanded roadworks program, as well as a already been paid for, that is, the hospital massive public housing program. and the police station, were new items of Labor set an example that the private expenditure." sector was only too willing to follow. In quick Those are not my words; they are from the time, investors poured money into a reviving editorial of the Hervey Bay Independent. It economy. They built new shopping centres, goes on to state— tourist accommodation, houses, industrial "What the Budget did give us, buildings and so on. However, six months ago however, was what a major tourist the whole shebang closed down; the operator has called a 'kick in the guts' for National/Liberal coalition had come to town. tourism in Hervey Bay. He was referring to Everything was subjected to the dead hand of the proposed $3 National Parks head tax review, and the review was used as an excuse which is due to come into force early next to stop growth and development in Hervey year. Bay. The dead hand of the Borbidge/Sheldon team showed itself in the increased According to the operator, this unemployment queues, as Hervey Bay 'appalling' tax will have a disastrous families were thrown on the scrap heap. It took impact on visitor numbers to Fraser Island six years of Labor Government to fix the both on day tours and long term neglect and decadence of the previous holidaymakers for whom the cost of a National Party Government, but it took week on the island (for a family of four) will Government members only six months to jump by $84. The tax, he predicts, will undo Labor's good work. lead to a marked decline in visitors not just to the island but in particular to The felony is compounded by this Hervey Bay." Budget. This Budget has the capacity to cripple Queensland with its seven new deadly The editorial goes on— taxes that round up and tie together all the "This is not an appealing prospect to negative aspects of the policies of the an industry already getting nervous about coalition. Honourable members may be talk of a new road between Noosa and interested in the editorial from today's Hervey Tin Can Bay and the effect it would have Bay Independent, so I will read it into Hansard. on the Bay's reputation as the supposed Headlined "Nothing up their sleeves"—and I 'gateway' to Fraser Island. 2946 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

It's no secret that the National Party day out on the battler's paradise, Fraser is working vigorously to snare the seat of Island. What about the TAFE tax? The Hervey Bay at the next election with visits Nationals and Liberals think that an extra $50 from Ministers and reinvigorated local on a TAFE course is a joke. It is not a joke, but branches going a long way to engender it is a cruel attempt at sick humour by the voter support. Treasurer. With unemployment rising under However, if our treatment in this these policies, how on earth can the Budget is what we can expect from this unemployed and those wishing to upgrade Government then they've got a darn sight their skills be expected to pay when they will more work ahead of them yet." already be crippled by the weight of all the other new charges and fees and taxes? That editor captures the mood of the people in Some of the new taxes raised are not regional Queensland. They feel neglected, going to be spent in the areas from which they betrayed and cheated by this Budget. It is an will be collected but will go into consolidated indictment of the Borbidge/Sheldon revenue. It is strongly suspected that the Government's incapacity to govern for the money will be there until needed to favour people and it is a pitiful story repeated through mates of the coalition. These taxes will be every regional electorate in Queensland. collected on unfriendly terms and paid out at Every one of those seven deadly taxes mates' rates. The last time a conservative will impact in a negative way on small business Government was in power, it was charged and in Queensland. Small business caters mainly convicted by the Queensland electorate of for families, so it is the Queensland family unit indulging in corruption, cronyism and political that will suffer through the increased taxes. patronage. It is becoming evident that the old These are the tax increases which, according guard of conservatism is keen to return to pre- to the "DipPhty Qld", Queenslanders did not 1989 ways of running this State. This has need to have. How can we forget the "no new become evident with the reduction in the taxes" line? The 35 per cent rise in the bank Budget for the funding of the CJC and, more account debits tax will affect small business recently, by the vicious attack perpetrated because of the high number of transactions upon some of the CJC people in other places. that they put through their bank accounts, a The coalition makes no secret of the fact cost which will have to be passed on to their that it would get rid of the Criminal Justice customers, mainly families. Families will be hit Commission on the grounds that it is in danger directly, as will low income earners, the poor, of becoming an alternative Government. Let the elderly and the unemployed. Millionaire me inform the House that anyone and land-holders in Surfers Paradise and anything is an alternative to this Government! Caboolture will get tax relief while Queensland The CJC is a crime-fighting body. Only crooks families will fork out more. It should be would wish to get rid of a crime-fighting body. remembered that the silvertails of Caloundra, The coalition wishes to rid itself of the CJC. I thanks to their member, Mrs Sheldon, have will allow honourable members to be their own already been given some relief through the judges. scrapping of the tolls on the Sunshine Mr WOOLMER: I rise to a point of Motorway. On top of this, the Government has order. I find that offensive and request that it now given them a punch beneath the belt. be withdrawn. The 10c per litre oil tax—the forerunner to Mr Palaszczuk: Unless you're Queensland's petrol tax—and the infamous personally maligned—— wheel tax of $3 per tyre or $15 per car is another dip into the pockets of the battlers, Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! I who have to pay the same as the Rolls Royce appreciate the assistance of the member for owner. The national parks tax of $3 per day Inala, but in this case I do not need it. The per person has been criticised by tourist member for Springwood has a point of order. operators. Do members know why? It is Mr WOOLMER: The insinuation was because it will hit families the hardest, and that coalition members are willing to allow families are the lifeblood of tourism. An crime to continue in this State. I find that average family of four will now pay an extra personally offensive and request that it be $84 for a week's stay on Fraser Island. From withdrawn. Monday, the cost of Fraser Island day trips Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: There is no from Kingfisher Bay will increase, and others point of order. are sure to follow. It will now cost $220 for an Mr NUNN: What a pity, because I was average family of two adults and two prepared to withdraw gently and gracefully, as children—if the children are under 14—for a I am sure many have done before me. 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2947

The CJC is a crime-fighting body. Only I am very pleased to see a boost in the crooks would wish to get rid of a crime-fighting number of TAFE positions for the Sunshine body. The coalition wishes to rid itself of the Coast. TAFE is a vital organisation in training CJC. I will allow honourable members to be the young people of this State for jobs. The the judges. Cooloola Sunshine Institute of TAFE will have The Budget has failed Queensland, it has a total budget of $18.64m, and capital works failed the Government and indicates more are planned to expand the Mooloolaba centre and to establish a new campus at Tewantin. surely than anything that I can say that the The institute will gain an extra 170 student Government in general and the Treasurer in places in 1997 under the coalition, and that particular are not up to the job. Surely the move is very welcome. The Cooloola Sunshine "DipPhty." of Queensland is aptly named! If Institute of TAFE is playing a very important the Premier is going to go to the people of part in opening up jobs for our young people. Queensland on this Budget, I will try to get him Frank Tanti's medal, because he would Also on the work front—I am pleased that deserve it. the coalition Government recognises that the workers' compensation mess left behind by Miss SIMPSON (Maroochydore) the Labor Party requires some contribution (4.15 p.m.): This is a very good Budget for the from Government. That was something that Sunshine Coast. We are a very high growth the Labor Party was not willing to do. From area with a lot of demands on Government January this year, employers faced an services. This Budget recognises that and average premium increase of about 24 per delivers more police, more doctors and nurses cent under the additional levy imposed by and more teachers for the Sunshine Coast Labor, but even that was not sufficient to deal and across Queensland. The coalition's with the $400m blow-out in the Workers Budget provides more money to promote Compensation Fund that we are now faced tourism and to boost jobs. There are also with. This matter will be fully dealt with by this some excellent human services programs Parliament in another piece of legislation. But recognising the more vulnerable people in our the Budget does allow for the fact that every community and seeking to support the family year over the next three years there must be a unit. On the environment front, the doubling of $35m contribution from the State Government the subsidy available to local governments to to return the fund to a balanced state. We upgrade their water and sewage treatment acknowledge that employers have already put plants and to encourage effluent re-use is a their hands deeply into their pockets through major step forward. the large slugs imposed by the previous Labor I will attempt to outline some of the Government. We are not intending to further specific initiatives, but first I want to challenge increase the burden on employers, but we are Mr Beattie and Mr Elder to stop bagging the saying that some changes have to be made Sunshine Coast and to rule out absolutely to bring the fund back into the black. We reintroducing the toll on the Sunshine acknowledge that the Government should Motorway if they ever return to Government. contribute, because it was the Labor Until they do rule out that possibility, the Government that contributed to the problem in Sunshine Coast has a lot to fear from Peter the first place. The National/Liberal coalition Beattie and Jim Elder. I have heard them now has to deal with the problem that the verbally dump all over the Sunshine Coast in former Government left behind. the past few weeks and, quite frankly, people When in Government, Labor had quite a up there are becoming quite fed up with it. record on taxes. The hypocrisy of the Labor Labor promised to take all the tolls off the Party in its analysis of this Budget is quite Sunshine Motorway. When it won Government stunning. Six years of Labor Government in in 1989, it went full steam ahead to return the Queensland saw an annual fee and tax tolls and actually increased the number of tolls increase of 10.5 per cent compared with the on the road. The debt went up under Labor's modest 4.8 per cent proposed this year by the stewardship. The $12m plus annual top-up coalition Government. No-one wants taxes to from road funding to pay for the debt that the rise, but it is time that people were given the tolls were not paying was a real cost to facts about the Labor Party's hypocrisy over Queenslanders. Now there is a program to taxes and fines. retire that debt, and the people of the The coalition Government came to power Sunshine Coast, and particularly those in my only a few months ago and has faced Labor's electorate of Maroochydore, are no longer underlying deficit of $240m, Health overruns of being penalised for using their local road $40m and Commonwealth cutbacks of network. $250m. I am disappointed with some of the 2948 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

Federal Government cutbacks. The reality is into schools is a big issue and one that that some 38 per cent of our income is not requires quite a deal of support. Over 100 raised by the State but comes from the more teachers, therapists and teacher aides Federal Government. It is time that we will be made available to special schools and considered the relationship between State and students who are being integrated into Federal Governments and worked out a more mainstream schools. The new Queensland equitable system of tax raising and distribution School Curriculum Office will employ 49 of the funds which are taken from the people seconded teachers whose positions will then of Australia. be backfilled. So there is a real commitment to The Government has $500m worth of its education. We have seen that right across- own initiatives which it is committed to the-board, with new technology going into delivering, primarily, in the key service areas of schools, and the commitment to the first hour supplying more police, teachers, doctors and of non-contact time for primary, preschool and nurses. We will deliver on these promises. The special school teachers is a real move forward. increases in taxes amount to less than half the In keeping coalition election promises, average annual increase of 10.5 per cent money has been allocated to police numbers. imposed by stealth by Labor. The Sunshine Coast is set to win a boost in I want to refer to education. Almost 1,000 police numbers in this first coalition Budget. I extra teachers will be employed in Queensland am pleased to see that we are already due to in 1996-97, which will clearly put the focus receive, in the next few months, 10 extra back on classrooms. On top of the increase in police, and the process of civilianisation will teacher numbers, a further 158 teacher aides further boost this sworn officer capacity. As the and public servants will be employed to help full impact of the $76m allocation to provide keep Queensland in front as the most an additional 800 police and 400 civilians by proficient provider of education in this most August 1999 flows through to the Statewide diverse State. The areas of behaviour police force, the Sunshine Coast will continue management and literacy and numeracy are to benefit. the two major beneficiaries of the increase in The new North Queensland Police numbers. Eighty-three more teachers, in Academy will also be in operation by about tandem with 12 extra counsellors and teacher next month, which means a boost to the aides, will assist with behavioural management number of police in training. This academy will strategies. A total of 71 new teachers will be be able to train up to 80 recruits each year. I employed in the first half of 1997 alone to also applaud the additional $5m in Budget focus purely on literacy and numeracy. allocation for the development of systems to I also support the measures in the reduce police time spent collecting information coalition's Budget to boost the Remote Area critical to fighting crime such as access to Incentive Scheme. In 1997, we will more than warrants, vehicle registrations and national double the incentives which were available police databases. The introduction of speed under the previous Government, and 1998 will cameras will further help to free up police see a trebling of the benefits. I have never not resources for other duties. supported the scheme, contrary to the QTU's I mentioned before that money has been deceitful poster campaign. One had to be provided to deal with those people in the fortunate enough to walk into a staff room to community who are perhaps more vulnerable see the little disclaimer on the bottom of the than others, and this is most important. poster that said if coalition members or Governments should as much as possible look anyone had a problem with the details in the at getting out of the lives of the people who poster, they should contact the QTU. That are doing the right thing but providing a safety union did not have the decency to send this net for those who do need assistance. The poster to members. It was most deceitful. Sunshine Coast elderly will benefit from a new Mrs Wilson: Sneaky. Statewide service to respond to the abuse of older people. We would like to think that the Miss SIMPSON: As my colleague says, elderly in our community were all cherished it was sneaky and disgraceful. We did not and well looked after in their latter years. While appreciate that. I am pleased that we have for the majority this may be the case, the sad delivered on this most important scheme, and truth is that interstate and international studies we will continue to deliver on education. indicate that up to 5 per cent of people over Students with disabilities will also receive the age of 65 years of age are abused. In extra attention through spending in the new Queensland, this means that about 23,700 Budget. This is an area of particular interest to older people over 60 might be abused by me because moving children with disabilities someone with whom they have a personal 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2949 relationship. This new service will work with Budget. I applaud the move of the Health older people, their families and current Minister, Mike Horan, to also quarantine services to give more support and protection mental health dollars to ensure funding is not for older people who have suffered abuse. diverted into other areas, as occurred quite The service will develop a coordinated network blatantly under the previous Labor which will provide a prompt, practical and Government. effective response to reports or allegations of Nambour Hospital will win its fair share of abuse of older people. the big Budget boost to hospitals. Nambour I am also pleased to note that there will Hospital is in one of the fastest growing areas be additional funding for disabled people in in Australia. It is a hospital that is always under our community. Some $8.6m over three years incredible pressure. The extra 540 nurses and will be targeted to meet some of the specific 80 doctors funded across the State in this needs of ageing carers of people with week's State Budget will make a difference to disabilities and parents of young children with this very important hospital. Queensland disabilities. There is a need, as has been hospitals have been given an extra $278m in recognised by the Government, for these the 1996-97 Health budget, bringing total programs to be more flexible and responsive. hospital outlays for the next financial year to This will be achieved by putting grants out to $2.05 billion. community-based organisations. Obviously, I refer back to the area of human that is a subject which is also dear to my services. Today, I was very pleased to heart—to see ways that we can better help announce, together with the Families Minister, people in the community who need that the new Government support worker for assistance. Maroochydore. This contract has been won by The foster care parents, the mums and Lifeline Sunshine Coast, which is based at dads out there who take needy children into Maroochydore but which covers the Sunshine their homes, will also receive additional Coast. That is a very worthy, hard-working funding under the State Budget. I know that organisation that has proven its ability to run that will be welcomed by the Sunshine Coast community programs and to reach out to foster parents with whom I have had contact people in need in the community. I have and the many others out there who quietly go confidence that that organisation will make full about their work. It is not an easy job, but they use of this grant, and I look forward to hearing play such a vital role. To this end, there will be the outcomes of this program. That service is a $1.442m allocation in 1996-97, to increase greatly needed in the area. Families need all to $3.835m in the following two years. I the help they can get to provide the nurturing welcome the Families, Youth and Community and caring to each other, but especially to Care Minister's stated commitment to work in children. The recurrent grant of $45,455 will partnership with foster parents and families to help Lifeline provide information and resources ensure that children return home as soon as to family members, skilled counselling, possible after an alternative placement is no practical assistance and referral to specialised longer needed. services. Our seniors are also winners in this In relation to Health—I notice that the Budget. Sunshine Coast people aged over 60 coalition is getting back to the basics of dental will all now benefit from one of two types of services. It has made a major commitment to Seniors Card—the Seniors Card or the Seniors improving public dental health services—one Business Discount Card—and from December of the areas worst affected by Labor's failed this year all retired residents of Queensland system of regionalisation. I regret to say that who are over 65 years will, for the first time, be the Commonwealth Dental Health Program will eligible for the Queensland Government continue only until 31 December 1996. Seniors Card, giving them access to a range Mrs Edmond interjected. of Government concessions. I know that, as Miss SIMPSON: I am very we get the message out to people, they will be disappointed that the Federal Government very pleased about that initiative. has pulled the money out of that particular Mental health services also won funding program. I am sure that this is a matter that support. The coalition has committed an members will continue to raise, because it additional $1.64m to commission new acute does hurt the Health budget here in beds for mental patients at Nambour General Queensland. It means that we have to work Hospital. That extra funding for mental health just that much harder in how we spend those at Nambour is part of a $10.424m increase in Health dollars. However, it is to the credit of mental health funding in this 1996-97 State this coalition Government that the coalition's 2950 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

Dental Health Program will commence on 1 targeting basic services. Take, for example, January 1997 at the same level as the the $10m allocated to open hospital wards Commonwealth scheme. The provision of which were closed by Labor, the $1.4m which approximately $10m to achieve this is most now guarantees life-saving Factor VIII to welcome. At the heart of the future of Queensland's haemophiliacs and the dentistry, this coalition Budget also allocates $300,000 to employ seven child health $100,000 in 1996-97 towards the nurses, focusing on immunisation—no glossy development of the Oral Health Centre, which brochures full of definitions, just getting back will see future dentists trained in a world-class to real services for Queenslanders. facility. Mrs EDMOND (Mount Coot-tha) On the subject of dental services— (4.33 p.m.): I am sorry that members had to yesterday, the members for Kurwongbah and listen to that prepared parroting from the Nudgee attempted to trot out the sins of Labor member for Maroochydore. It is a pity that she on the back of a coalition scapegoat. It did not has such a short memory and that she knows wash in the 1995 State election, it did not nothing about what she is talking about. But wash in Mundingburra, and it will not wash why am I not surprised that, in this year's now. The three-surgery clinic at Strathpine and Budget papers, enormous efforts have been the four-surgery clinic at Sandgate were run made to hide spending in the regions and that down by Labor to the point at which neither all expenditure is expressed in global can now meet its patient demand. Overflow Statewide terms, that is, from a centralised patients from some suburbs are directed to aspect in keeping with the one real coalition the Stafford clinic, which Labor ran down to Health initiative, that is, to move all spending the point at which, because of funding levels, divisions and planning of service delivery back only eight of its 14 surgeries are used. to Brisbane? Presumably, this is the very I referred earlier to the coalition Dental aspect that the Minister is trying to hide from Health Program, a new initiative of this the many health workers and residents who Government, replacing the Commonwealth live outside the south-east corner of the State. Dental Health Program. I understand that Over the last couple of years, with the Queensland Health is considering using these introduction of Estimates committees and new funds to open school clinics at Kallangur, portfolio Program Statements, there has been Strathpine and Nundah to public use, a pleasing change in the presentation of alleviating pressures on the existing adult Budget papers. Indeed, last year's was so clinics. Should this occur, I trust that the comprehensive, detailing program by program members for Kallangur and Nudgee will be and region by region, with detailed amongst the first to congratulate the coalition explanations of any variation between and Mike Horan. Until it does, the electors of estimated and actual expenditure, that there Kallangur and Nudgee should reflect on the were few questions left to ask. This year's poor state of dental health services left to papers are obtuse in the extreme and appear them by Health Ministers Beattie and Elder. to be deliberately presented to cover up the Oral health is also an important public Minister's constant bungling, fiddling of activity health issue. The coalition's recognition of this figures and lack of new initiatives and, of is confirmed by the allocation of $470,000 for course, the capital works freeze, which has led public health dental officers. Rural and remote to the whole rebuilding program now being dentistry will also benefit from this additional many months behind schedule. package. The moneys will be used to fund the Why am I not surprised that the very Rural Incentive Program targeted at attracting headlines in the Minister's media handouts are dentists to practise in these areas. Improved based on rubbery figures? The Health budget salaries and other benefits for oral health staff has not been increased by 11.6 per cent, as will provide a major boost to staff recruitment the Minister claims, but by 8.1 per cent, as and retention. This allocation is just one small many of the media actually reported—those part of $90m in new initiatives aimed at with a calculator on hand. Whereas I am enhancing or expanding service delivery, pleased with that increase, it is well below what particularly for people living outside the south- is needed to catch up on health needs over east corner of the State. The $90m targets and above CPI increases and population priority areas, such as hospitals, mental health growth. Over the last six years, the Labor and community health, in addition to public Government was making a determined effort health. I am sure that these measures will to reduce the differences between the services have a significant impact in terms of provided in this State and those in other community benefit because of the way that States. The Health budget this year is well the coalition and Mike Horan have got back to down on what it would have been if the 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2951 coalition had followed Labor's 12 per cent Minister with such big political ambitions— average spending increase in six consecutive watch out, Russell—however unrealistic they State Budgets for hospitals and community may be, from the National Party, which has health services. Service delivery will suffer as a such a shameful record in managing health result, and already patients and staff are services in Queensland, wants to go down in feeling the pressure. history as the man who introduced the spectre I shall just put forward a few examples to of privatisation into Queensland's free public honourable members. Almost every major hospital system. The Minister can try to dress it hospital has contacted me telling me that, in up in whatever way he likes with his real terms, they are worse off than they were assurances that only new hospitals will be sold last year. For example, according to the most off, but the beginning of the end for public likely estimates, the Cairns Hospital will get an hospitals in this State under a coalition increase of 0.1 per cent; the best estimate is 1 Government lies in the Budget papers. per cent. That hospital needs 7 per cent just to The Premier and the Treasurer made a keep level with its growth of 4.4 per cent per promise during the July State election year and a CPI increase of 2.5 per cent. So campaign that privatisation of public hospitals the Cairns Hospital will be significantly worse was not coalition policy and would not be off. The Health budget this year is a mockery contemplated in any shape or form. That of what it should have been. Based on a promise has been broken, and members of comparison of this year's Budget with last this Parliament have a duty to defend our year's actual spending, Mr Horan has health system by opposing this measure, produced only a $225m increase, which which is confirmed in the Budget papers. May compares less than favourably with Labor's I suggest that, before the Minister continues $307m increase last financial year. The Health down this privatisation path, he at least reads budget is so silent on the detail, one can the scathing report of the New South Wales conclude only that the Minister is, like his Auditor-General and his comments regarding Treasurer, hiding and covering up. the previous New South Wales coalition One of the major factors that the coalition Government's privatisation deal for Port is hiding in this Health budget relates to the Macquarie Hospital? For the benefit of privatisation disease which the Minister has members, may I explain briefly that this unleashed on our prized public health system. hospital was a similar election promise to Queensland's free public hospital system was Noosa, Robina, Caloundra and Beaudesert— the envy of Australia. Now we are seeing it go without planning, without funding, and up in smoke. Stage 1 of the Horan public definitely not meant to be private. But within hospitals privatisation plan is in the fine print weeks of winning Government, the coalition on page 16 of the Program Statement for announced that it would be a private hospital Health. Once upon a time, other States in with some public usage—just the same as this Australia followed Queensland's lead. Then Minister intends to introduce. came the corrupt National Party Government, The Auditor-General in New South Wales which destroyed the fabric of Queensland's found that New South Wales taxpayers would hospital system with 32 years of neglect. But pay two and a half times over for that hospital at least we still had a free public hospital and that the cost of providing services would system. Now we see that all being cast aside be 30 per cent higher than in public hospitals. in the wake of unfunded election I should also refer the Minister to the debate commitments. regarding that hospital in the New South The coalition's Budget is filled with so Wales Parliament where it was revealed that many broken promises and creative the prime beneficiaries threw a major accounting procedures that it is hard to know fundraising function for the Liberal Party. I where to begin to unravel the deceit for the warn the Minister that that party was thrown purpose of this debate. The introduction of not for the National Party but for the Liberal privatisation of our public hospital system is Party. undoubtedly one of the finest examples of the The broken promises theme of this deceit and broken promises which has Appropriations Bill as they apply to Health go characterised this Government from day one. much further than that. The number of new The deceit lies in the fact that the privatisation nursing positions is 260 fewer than Labor's of Noosa and Robina hospitals does not even commitment to employ 800 new nurses in appear in the Minister's budget as new Queensland's health system and will simply initiatives. They are just hidden in the fine print not keep up with growth. With fewer nurses like all the other hidden nasties in this Health there is no way that this Government is budget. It is hard to believe that a Health carrying out the waiting list reduction strategy 2952 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 that it says it is. Simply, wards cannot be should not come into this place and bag the opened without a much higher number of former Government which initiated the nurses in the hospital system, and we see that procedures when their own figures show that, at Rockhampton, Ipswich, the Royal Children's except for when those letters culled patients, Hospital, and Mount Olivet. Nurses are more patients went off the lists due to having speaking out. What has happened to Labor's their operations in the comparative months plans to expand the Graduate Nurse under the Labor Government. As I said, I Transition Training Program? I simply have not welcome increased efficiencies in surgical found it mentioned in this Budget and I throughput to relieve the waiting time for challenge the Minister to inform the House elective surgery, but Government members exactly where the extra money to train our should not insult my intelligence or that of the nursing graduates is to be found. people of Queensland who are waiting for It is worth noting that page 4 of the Health surgery by playing games with them as they Program Statements reveals the major real wait. increases in staffing as a result of Labor In the capital works area we see clear initiatives such as a reduction in award hours evidence of the freeze that this Government for nurses from 40 to 38 hours and also the has denied. I refer specifically to the Health retention of doctors in the public system as a Program Statements on page 21 in the Total result of the incentives packages. Those are in Capital Outlays column. The Budget allocation the Government's documents. Only recently for 1995-96 compared with the actual nurses were ridiculed by certain coalition expenditure figure in that section of the members opposite for publicly registering their Budget papers illustrates this point, and concerns abut the Premier's flawed Public indeed, reveals that less will be spent in Service Bill. Perhaps they are being punished total—even when the Government adds it on for speaking out. In common with the for next year. If it were not for the freeze, consumer voice in health who have had their Stage 1 of the Royal Brisbane Hospital funding withdrawn, the nurses have had their Redevelopment would be nearly completed, numbers slashed. On waiting lists in particular, work at the PA Hospital would be progressing the Health Minister has been exposed as well and a whole host of other projects in nothing more than a lead pencil accountant. Labor's 10-year rebuilding program could have The only surgery that is going on at the moved forward. Instead of which, the program moment is that performed by the Minister's has been pushed back further into the never- pencil, not the doctor's scalpel. That is the never. word from disillusioned doctors and hospital I also draw members' attention to page staff at some of our leading metropolitan 49, Appendix 1 of the Treasurer's Annual hospitals. Statement, which clearly lists the $43.075m of I will explain further. The initiatives capital works projects that were frozen. That announced by the Minister relating to waiting does not include other projects that have been lists were announced by the previous Labor dropped off the list altogether. Sadly, it looks Minister in November after a number of like the Mater Hospital is one of those that has management trials, including one that was been dropped off the Capital Works Building reported in the current Minister's propaganda Program in this Budget. I happen to believe paper "Health Matters" at the Gold Coast that it is a great shame that that wonderful where it reported on the success of a two-year institution is being treated so callously. Under management trial. The funding provided is Labor, the Hospital Rebuilding Program would exactly the same $25m per year for 3 years as have been in full flight by now; instead we see announced by Mr Beattie, then Minister for reviews of works already commenced and the Health. The initiatives are identical and I infamous Horan reprioritisation of infrastructure welcome the improved efficiencies. projects. Patients on waiting lists for surgery I have no problem with culling the waiting certainly know what the Horan reprioritisation lists, as is happening now: sending out letters of waiting lists means. It means that to patients asking if they have died, no longer miraculously no-one is waiting extended require the operation, have already had the periods for surgery according to the Minister, operation and, if they do not reply by a certain regardless of the number of people coming date, removing them from the waiting list. That forward to tell us otherwise. is sensible, and, with the pre-admission An increased Health budget is all well and management also introduced by the Labor good, but the fruits of this increase will Government, that should minimise the "don't unfortunately be lost on poorly planned shows" and wasted theatre time. I applaud hospitals in Noosa, Robina, Beaudesert and, those measures, but coalition members of course, Caloundra. The 8.1 per cent 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2953 increase in this Health budget will be lost the Treasurer was going to include it in her totally if service delivery is continually forced to inaugural Budget? The reason is that he play second fiddle to party political wanted to pretend that he was not personally considerations. Health facilities are far too a party to yet another broken promise. He expensive to be used as mere political bribes. bought into the increased tobacco tax issue Under Labor, more beds would be when he tried very hard to discredit Labor's planned using proper health needs analysis Hospital Rebuilding Program with his fictitious projections and located where people live. Bed $1.2 billion black hole slander. For the record, numbers and hospital locations under this there is no mention, no sign, of a $1.2 billion Government have been determined by party debt in the Health budget papers. The only political considerations, just as they were in the outstanding debt in the Health budget is the bad old days prior to 1989. In fact, the Minister $700m debt left behind by the previous has actually removed any independent health National Party Government, which the Health planning function from his department. This Department has been paying back to Treasury will no doubt form part of the $31m cut since 1990 when Labor embarked on the task mentioned in the departmental overview for of fixing up that mess. The sum of $513.8m the Budget. remains to be paid off year in, year out. If honourable members read page 2, Appendix In this Budget there is no evidence of any 2 of the Treasurer's Annual Statement, they planned and equitable distribution of will see that that amount is still to be paid. resources, simply new hospitals—two of them to be privatised—in coalition electorates and The Minister has taken exception over the more money for the powerful vested interests. past seven months to complaints from So despite the Budget increase for Health, the community health service providers and the vast bulk of this money will be funnelled into Opposition for failing to live up to his promises unplanned and politically motivated election to deliver services to local communities. Let us promises on health services. That is a great consider the priority applied to community pity for all Queenslanders, particularly those health funding in the Budget papers to set the north of Noosa. record straight. We find a 16 per cent increase in funding for hospitals compared with a 3.5 The Health budget papers this year are per cent increase for community health. The dangerously low on important detail for the numbers speak for themselves. The simple reason that the Government does not development of Queensland's community want to open up the books in the interests of health infrastructure for future generations will open and accountable government. It does not be delivered without a genuine retention of not want to open up the books because it is Labor's primary health care approach. The not delivering the services that it says it is. Government cannot expect to seriously take That was the case prior to 1989, and it would the pressure off our tertiary hospital facilities if seem that we are in for much of the same primary health care services are not available shameful treatment by another National Party to people in the communities where they live. Health Minister in sheep's clothing. Mr Hollis: He refuses to answer The policy vacuum that has stricken questions on community health, also. Queensland Health since Mr Horan came on board has been graphically illustrated by the Mrs EDMOND: Absolutely. absence of any new initiatives belonging to Right throughout the Health budget the coalition. The coalition's first Health budget papers one will see plenty of rhetoric about in six years attempts to take ownership of a Labor's primary health care initiatives and large number of Labor-initiated health policies, community health but also an alarming programs and rebuilding projects. The number of poorly disguised references to question that remains unanswered is: how can cutbacks to non-Government organisations the Government increase the Health budget and community health service providers. by only 8 per cent instead of 12 per cent this Those are the very groups who provide financial year but it can afford to remove the services that help to keep people with toll on the Sunshine Motorway in Mrs common colds and non-acute health problems Sheldon's backyard at a cost to the taxpayer out of the outpatients in our public hospitals. of $200m? Those are also the groups who have been Indeed, if the increased tobacco tax is so calling on the Minister for months to at least necessary at this time, why has the Health guarantee their existing funding levels, and to Minister suddenly gone so silent on the issue? come clean with his intentions. Why did he support it one minute and then This is at a time when the community rule it out prematurely when he realised that health needs are increasing due to changing 2954 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 medical practice and structures and indeed probably a good thing for Labor that these when the coalition Governments at both levels programs have been stolen and renamed. keep insisting that more services need to be Let us look at the hidden cuts: $31m from provided by and in the community. the annual Health budget—actually an $11m Increasing throughput of hospitals and cut in the corporate services budget for Health early discharges has a lot of positive and an additional $15m cut in 1996-97—and outcomes, but it means more than putting an the Health Promotion Council cut. I would just elderly person into a cab and sending her or like to add that this cut is particularly ironic in him home alone just to reduce the staffing light of the Minister's ministerial statement needs at night at the hospital. Many yesterday that emphasised the need for community-based service providers and non- increasing health promotion work and in view Government organisations will be closing up of the way the Minister has leapt to take credit shop as a result of this Health budget. This is for its achievements. One would think that this where Mrs Sheldon's half a billion dollars in sort of dedicated activity would have merited savings have come from in Health—by cutting more than a dismissive, cursory note of this the most vulnerable out of the picture. There council's abolition and, instead, been has been no protest from Mr Horan for hitting defended. the most vulnerable and needy. One needs Two hundred net staff positions are to go; only to look at the current ward closures at Mt 60 VERs, which are actually an expenditure, Olivet to identify the deceit behind the Health not a saving; district health service residential budget. care—grants and subsidies cut due to I would be interested to hear from the reduction in grants to non-Government Minister about Queensland Health's organisations, service providers, Meals on contribution to the Treasurer's mysterious Wheels, Domicare, PACT—all gone and all $500m cuts across all portfolios. While he is at cut. it, he might also like to explain how much has I hope the Minister takes up the audit been taken out of the Health budget as a commission's recommendation to review the result of the coalition's efficiency dividend. boundaries and geographical placement of his district health councils and to review the Mr Horan's $10m allocation for dental location and size of hospitals. health in this Budget also shows that the Minister knew full well about the Federal cuts Time expired. to this program prior to Mr Costello's Federal Mr HOLLIS (Redcliffe) (4.53 p.m.) I rise Budget Statement in August, despite to speak in this Budget debate with a sense of previously denying and feigning horror about outrage. Last night, I arrived home and picked it. It is simply unbelievable for this to have up my local paper and saw a wonderful, full- come as a total surprise. Mr Horan has not page advertisement stating— come up with one new idea in his long-awaited "What the 'Back to Basics Budgets' Health budget but rather modelled himself on means to Queensland. Increased programs initiated under the previous Labor services, NO increase in average tax per Health Ministers by claiming them as his own. person." Many have been introduced into Parliament with all his usual anti-Labor diatribe without his Firstly, in this place, the Treasurer has even realising that the previous Minister, Mr never explained what an average tax per Beattie, had signed the foreword. person is. Secondly, she has not explained all the increases in tax. Today, we have heard so As I said, Labor is pleased to see the much about the "seven deadly taxes". Of retention of at least some Labor-initiated course, those seven deadly taxes will affect an programs to reform the dreadful mess left electorate such as mine, one in which there behind in health by the Nationals in 1989. are people on low incomes. When However, the incompetence played out by this Governments put an extra $3 on each tyre Government on a daily basis, the Budget that people will buy, an extra 10c on each litre process being the most embarrassing of oil that people will buy, and when it charges example thus far, does not augur well for the them to go into national parks with their proper implementation of important Labor families—and these are low-income families— initiatives. And by this, I refer to the coalition's it affects people very deeply. As the Leader of decision to rename as its own Labor's 10-year the Opposition said earlier this week, the Mental Health Plan and Labor's 10-year increases in this Budget could cost an extra Hospital Rebuilding Plan. In light of the $800 per family a year. When people are on Government's ineptitude generally, it is an income that is lower than the average—in 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2955 fact, in some cases, it is almost on the poverty living in those pathetic dogboxes that line—those increases mean that they will be members opposite built before 1989—the little deprived of the basic necessities of life. two-roomed areas with no separation between I wonder what is going to happen to my the bedroom and the lounge. constituents who live on Moreton Island in Mr Fouras: Which we have been fixing relation to the environment tax, or the national for the last seven years. park tax and the ludicrous way in which it is Mr HOLLIS: Which the Labor going to be imposed. How is the Government Government had fixed during that time. When going to tell those people who live in Bulwer a person moves into one of those units and and Cowan Cowan and at the squatters camp asks for a concertina screen to separate the up in the north area how they have to pay living area from the bedroom area, and that their fees to enter the national park as, each person is told, "There is no money in the morning, they step across the line into that maintenance fund", one wonders what has national park? Firstly, one wonders why the happened to the money during that time. I Government would impose such a tax. Why think that we all know what has happened; it would it want to tax people to enter what is has all been revealed in that Budget. The rightfully theirs? Secondly, why would the Government has been salting away the Government want to tax people because of dollars. It has been putting the dollars in a big where they live? bin and saying, "We can say to the people, I guarantee that farmers in the bush who 'We are going to give you all the services. We live near a stretch of national park will not be are going to look after you now because we too worried about paying that three bucks are now the Government.' " The coalition is every time they go into the national park. The really spending the money that the Labor same should apply to those people who live in Party had by which it could give people decent the areas close to the more populated areas living conditions in public housing and more of of Brisbane. The Deputy Leader of the those people who are on the waiting lists an Opposition also made that smart comment opportunity to be housed in a decent manner. about the beach at Alexandria Bay at Noosa. However, over the last six months, all the He is quite right when he says that, in relation Government has done is deny those people to that area, imposing that tax is ludicrous. those opportunities so that today it could put out an advertisement which states— However, that tax is another revenue- raising method of this Government. But for "NO increase in average tax per what? When I find out what has happened in person." my area over the last six months and what will Government members should be possibly happen in the next six months to a absolutely ashamed and horrified to read that year—if the coalition remains in power for that advertisement in their local papers, which long—I wonder about the Sheldon freeze, refers to what the Government is doing for about which I have asked questions in this Queensland. For seven months, the House. Day in, day out, I wonder how Government has deprived decent members opposite could state in this House Queenslanders of what they should be entitled that there is no freeze. I refer to public housing to. in my electorate. Over the last six months or Mr Palaszczuk: The Government has seven months, nothing has happened. Not flicked the hospital pass. one building has commenced. Mr HOLLIS: The hospital pass is a good Mr Palaszczuk interjected. one. I now turn to the health needs of my Mr HOLLIS: I say to Mr Palaszczuk that electorate. I will come to maintenance in a moment. Mr Carroll: What a team! When I have asked the Housing Minister a Mr HOLLIS: What a team! I refer to the question, he answers, "Everything will be redevelopment of the Redcliffe Hospital which, revealed after the Budget. We will tell you had the Labor Party still been in Government, what you are going to get in 1996-97." Of would have commenced. The tenders would course, the Budget papers are so fudged that have been let and work would have it would be impossible to know exactly what we commenced at that hospital. Instead, what do are going to get. we get from this Government? We get a Mr Palaszczuk, the member for Inala, $1.5m promise. This Government does not do referred to maintenance. Over the last six too badly—instead of the $11m that the months, maintenance on public housing has former Government promised, it is saying that come to a complete halt. We have pensioners we will have $30m. 2956 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

It is easy to win Government from a shaky A few weeks ago during the juvenile position by saying, "We promise the world. We justice debate, I was intrigued at the speech of won't give you $11m; we'll give you $30m so the honourable member for Thuringowa. perhaps you will vote for us next time." That Members might recall that in that speech the stands out like the beacon on Moreton Island. member said that there is now a lack of The Government is promising the world in a community confidence about whether the big-spending Budget and it is hoping that police can provide the services that they are people will forget the nasty things it has done. employed to provide. I thought that that The Government is hoping that people will speech was one of the best speeches ever forget the last seven months, the MOU, the made in this House, because the member Carruthers inquiry and so on. That is as plain said exactly what all members' constituents as night and day. are saying to us every day of the week—there is a lack of confidence that the police can When in Government, we allocated $3m provide the services that we need. I have for a TAFE to be built at Klinger Road in thought about that statement for some time Redcliffe. Prior to the 1995 election, the and today I wish to talk about why that is the Treasurer visited Redcliffe to support the case. From memory, Mr McElligott said that Liberal candidate. She said, "We will give $3m the community perceives policemen to be for the same college on the same site." Of people who drive past in cars and do not take course, I was quite taken with that, because all any notice of what is going on in the parties—National, Liberal and Labor—were community. guaranteeing a $3m TAFE for Redcliffe. If we had stayed in Government, a $3m TAFE Over the past few years, two Redcliffe officers, Inspector Behm and Inspector Griggs, would have been built on that site. However, in have started to take the idea of community the Budget papers only $1.7m has been policing very seriously. They were limited only allocated. We have received half a TAFE. Just by their own ability to get out into the as the Government builds half a road, it builds half TAFEs. When Labor returns to community and do things. When they first Government, we will rectify that. started to look at community policing, they attended every function held in the The Government fought hard on the issue community, they visited schools and they of police, not only in the July election of 1995 ensured that they were a part of the but also in the Mundingburra by-election. I saw community rather than just spending their time the trailers going around Mundingburra and sitting in an office at police headquarters. heard all the hoo-ha about crime. As we all People have said to me, "I've never really met know, regardless of which side of the House a senior policeman before and I've never really we may be on, once an election has been had the time to talk to one but, gee, it is good called everybody gets onto crime. It is to talk to these guys. Now I feel like I can go to amazing how crime increases in the two them and talk about my problems." months leading up to an election! A few weeks ago, the member for Keppel, Mr Palaszczuk: And it sends the wrong Vince Lester, and I went to Toowoomba to signals. look at the Police Beat Program. That program has been running for three and a half years. Mr HOLLIS: It sends the wrong signals, That was one of the most enlightening days that is quite right. Unfortunately, we end up that I have spent, because we were able to with a police auction. I am not talking about talk to the police, including senior police the auctioning of cars, but the auctioning of officers, residents and shopkeepers. That trip police numbers. I have been in this House day confirmed my opinion that what we have been after day, year after year, and I have heard doing for many years is going wrong. When members on both sides of this House we say that we need more police on the auctioning police numbers. Sometimes it streets, we are really asking for more sounds like a kindergarten—"I am going to put policemen to drive around in cars. We should 130 in"; "I'll put 150 in"; "But you haven't kept be ensuring that the Police Service is a part of your promise"; "And you haven't kept yours." the community. If there is an example of how And on it goes. As I have said in the Address things can work, Toowoomba is that example. in Reply debate, we never talk about the Mr Palaszczuk: Mr Hollis, could I offer effectiveness and the management of police. an invitation to yourself and the honourable As legislators and managers, we are falling member for Keppel, and any other members down in our responsibility to the State of who would like to, to visit Inala. We have the Queensland. That is where I believe any future first community police network established in Minister should direct his attention. the State. 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2957

Mr HOLLIS: We will most certainly take role so that it prevents crime rather than up that offer. The other interesting fact about chases criminals after the crime is committed. the situation in Toowoomba is that the police Therefore, I am pleased that the Minister is officer is known in the community by his first here today. I know he is a great supporter of name, Henry. In three and a half years, Henry the program. I have also lobbied Dr Brereton has had to call for backup only once. That of the CJC to initiate a whole-of-city operation destroys the Police Union's claim that police in Redcliffe. I thought it would be a wonderful should not be on their own. In three and a half chance for the Police Minister to see whether, years he has never worn a gun or carried a set instead of trialling it in two or three areas, it of handcuffs. could work for the whole city. A self-contained Mr FitzGerald: How many thugs has he city such as Redcliffe—I am sure the Minister caught? agrees; he is nodding his head—would be a perfect trial area for a Police Beat Program. I Mr HOLLIS: I will come to that point. As thank the Minister very much for his support. I I think the honourable member for appreciate that. At this stage, I know there is Toowoomba would agree, the interesting thing not much money in the Budget for community is that part of Henry's beat is one the roughest policing, but I am sure the Minister could divert parts of Toowoomba. It is not the most money for the Police Beat Program from some salubrious area. This man patrols the area and of the not so vital areas. he has got to know all the people—all the young offenders, all the older offenders, all the Mr Palaszczuk: Sir Max Bingham in his drunks. He knows when people move into the report recommended community policing. area. He knows the shopkeepers. Mr HOLLIS: Yes, he did. I was just Mr Healy: He spends a lot of time in the going to refer to that. schools. Mr Palaszczuk: And single police Mr HOLLIS: That was my next point. officer patrols as well. Henry has become part of the community. Mr HOLLIS: I was going to refer to that Henry and his family attend the local church, in the couple of minutes I have left. I have in so they are known among the church group, front of me the Bingham report—the bible of his wife attends the women's groups and his members opposite. Recommendation 138 children attend the local schools. He attends states that the committee recommends that the local schools also, because he feels that the commissioner allocate funds specifically for that is a part of being involved in the appropriately sited beat policing projects. I community. In the past three and a half years, commend that wonderful recommendation. Henry has not made a lot of arrests because Still on the subject of police—I wish to he does not need to. He can walk into a raise the issue of having two officers per car driveway and see a car that is in need of repair attending cold crime scenes, for example, and is unroadworthy. He will knock on the burglary scenes. Over the past two years, I owner's door and say, "I'm Henry. I don't think have been the unfortunate victim of two you should take your car out onto the road." burglaries. I have arrived home to find my That is pro-active policing and I think that that doors open and everything gone. Generally, is where we are missing the point. the police take about 40 minutes to an hour to Mr FitzGerald: Does he give warnings respond. That is fair enough, because in such to speeding motorists? cases there is nobody around for them to Mr HOLLIS: He does. I am glad to see catch. On both occasions, two officers have that the Minister for Police is in the House. I turned up in a car and spent 40 or 50 minutes know that the Police Minister is a great at the scene taking particulars. That really is supporter of the Police Beat Program and that ludicrous. The recommendation for single- he is listening to me. officer investigation units makes sense. In Mr Palaszczuk: And taking notes. many cases, the particulars of robberies could be taken even by a civilian. There is not much Mr HOLLIS: And taking notes. I say, that the police can do after such a crime has very sincerely, that we should not continue been committed. with the police auction. At some point we have to do something about police, about crime Mr Palaszczuk: Besides interviewing and about social behaviour. The only way we the victim, there should always be follow-up, are going to do anything about any of those because that is the best public relations the matters is to have a Police Service which is police can do. responsive to the community, which is known Mr HOLLIS: I thank the honourable to the community, and which is pro-active in its member for reminding me of something I left 2958 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 out of my comments with respect to the Police awaited—over four years—manual arts Beat Program. Importantly, every time there is construction court; Hughenden State High an offence and anything happens to people, School, $170,000; Millchester State School, the Toowoomba Police Beat officers follow it $25,000; Charters Towers Central School, up within a reasonable time to let victims know $106,198 for completion of the school oval; what has happened. In respect of both Richmond Hill State School, $185,000; and burglaries of my property—one 18 months ago Prairie State School, $150,000. I am very and the other four months ago—I have not grateful for that funding. It has been a good heard any more from the police about, for many years since any capital works have been example, whether they have caught anybody, done on a lot of our schools. At least this whether they expect to catch anybody, or Government is now moving to bring them up whether the case is closed. There is a great to scratch. case for follow-ups. That may be a part of the Mr Palaszczuk: Is that right? service that is missing. We changed the name "Police Force" to "Police Service". The police Mr MITCHELL: Yes, it is right. Over the have a duty to serve the public, just as we as past four years, no money has been spent on parliamentarians do. any of those schools. Opposition members cannot tell us anything about the bush. It took Mr Lester: They did appreciate the fact them three years to wake up to the fact that that we went up and had a look as well. there was a drought. Industries were more or Mr HOLLIS: The honourable member less destroyed before members opposite did made the point that those officers appreciated anything about it. They cannot tell me the fact that we took the time to look at their anything about what they did in rural areas. project, to see that it was working effectively, The Government recognises the and that we took an interest in what they are importance of education, and the Minister, doing. I am sure that, if each member of this Bob Quinn, has responded in this Budget to House did so, the service would improve. our local requests for the much-needed Mr MITCHELL (Charters Towers) improvement of facilities. Students in our (5.13 p.m.): It gives me great pleasure to communities will be the big winners in this speak to Appropriation Bill (No. 2) and to record Budget allocation. Our students will congratulate the Treasurer on bringing down a benefit from the additional literacy and back to basics Budget which will benefit all numeracy initiatives, the program to upgrade Queenslanders. The Budget provides for more computers in schools, the additional staff efficient delivery of essential services, being allocated to assist students with infrastructure for economic and population disabilities, the new behaviour management growth, reduction in excessive bureaucracy, a program, which is a great plus for schools, and huge focus on outcomes, not processes, with the additional funds going towards higher the savings going back into core services. education. The incentives for teachers will be tripled over the next two years. The previous By spreading the taxpayers' dollar further, Labor Government did nothing to assist the the coalition's first Budget enhances the teachers transferred to rural and remote preservation of the State's assets and Queensland. It has been left to this improves the standard of living and quality of Government to fix up that area. No final details life for all Queenslanders. In doing so, it will will be announced until after the Queensland repair most of the damage inflicted by the Teachers Union has been fully consulted. former Labor Government over the past six years. My theme for the Budget is "back to the Mr McGrady: What you just said is not bush". This Budget is just another example of true, and you know it's not true. this Government's commitment to rural, Mr MITCHELL: Not enough has been remote and regional Queensland. done for them. They are asking for a lot more. I wish to outline some of the funding We are starting to put those improved initiatives contained in the Budget for the incentives in place. Some 2,500 teachers will electorate of Charters Towers. Education has benefit once this scheme is implemented. been high on the list, with the Charters Towers I turn to the appropriations for electorate being allocated $1.53m for capital Queensland Health. I commend the works from the record $333m capital works Government, and its Health Minister, Mike allocation. The schools that will benefit are as Horan, for returning the Health budget to the follows: Charters Towers State High School, basics, in particular, back to sound, solid $640,000; Clermont State High School, hospital services. Tuesday's $312m increase $110,000; Moranbah State High School, brought total health outlays to $3.02 billion, an $150,000 for the construction of the long- increase which has confirmed the coalition's 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2959 commitment to getting the Queensland health Vaughan Johnson, for recognising the need system right. The additional $312m will be for increased infrastructure funding in rural allocated entirely to basic priority services, Queensland. Local councils and the Railway including hospitals, mental health, community Department are the main work force bases in and public health. The failure of rural towns, and the boost in funding for regionalisation, with its burgeoning roadworks and railway upgrading will enhance administrative budgets, endless committees the level of employment and may increase and jet-setting bureaucrats, has gone. In fact, employment in some areas. The much- patients are back in the air, with initiatives such discussed Hughenden-Winton road has as the new $1.5m Royal Flying Doctor Service received an allocation of $2.7m out of a $27m based in Townsville. Clinicians are back in the program. There is a further $4.2m to upgrade air, with funding boosts such as $15,000 for and widen the Flinders Highway. The the Flying Surgeon Program. Both of those Clermont-Charters Towers section of the initiatives will bring real benefits to many of the Gregory Development Road will see the electors of Charters Towers. Queensland remaining bitumen and bridges completed hospitals have been given the lion's share of with the $6m allocated in the Budget. The these increases. An extra $278m will bring Peak Downs Highway receives $2.76m for total hospital outlays to $2.05 billion this year. widening and overlay. An extra $40m has This will provide new jobs for 540 nurses and been earmarked for further work on regional some 80 doctors. and rural roads. The Mount Isa-Townsville rail Rural cities such as Charters Towers and line has had a major injection of funds to the rural communities have emerged from six tune of $24.6m. There will be a $7.7m years of neglect by Labor Ministers, including upgrade from Hughenden to Maxwelton, and the new Leaders of the Opposition, Messrs ongoing work on Stage 3 of the upgrade will Beattie and Elder. The Charters Towers district be possible through a $16.2m injection. will receive an additional $1,118,599 this Funding of $25.4m is also provided for railway financial year, in spite of Commonwealth cuts minerals projects. of $286,354. In particular, the coalition should The Minister for Emergency Services and be commended for its decision to make good Sport has thrown his weight behind the plight a cut of $53,042, thus saving the former of people and his officers who work and live in Commonwealth Dental Health Program from rural and remote Queensland. I have spoken the axe. This means that the coalition Dental this week on his achievements with regard to Health Program will deliver its full $90,000 people in these areas. These include incentive Charters Towers district service in 1996-97. schemes for QAS officers, wage increases for QFS officers, increased training across the Funding dentists was not the only oral State and new four-wheel-drive ambulances health issue left unresolved when Messrs for Capella, Clermont, Hughenden and Julia Beattie and Elder scurried for the doors of 147 Creek. Charlotte Street back in February. An additional package of $470,000 per annum The Queensland coalition Government's had also been provided in the Health budget Budget represents a tremendous show of to instigate a Rural Incentive Program. That support for this State's valuable beef industry. program will aim to attract dentists to practise The Queensland beef industry has endured in rural and remote areas. It will improve salary up to five and six years of drought in some and other benefits, including motor vehicle, areas and a significant drop in returns as a accommodation and additional leave benefits. result of low beef prices. Despite this, the It will provide a major boost to staff recruitment industry still managed to contribute $1.221 and retention, particularly in rural and remote billion to the Queensland economy in 1995- Queensland. 96, not to mention the flow-on benefits in nearly all of regional Queensland. At the last State election, we promised to get back to basics. This Health budget repays The coalition Government recognises the the confidence of the majority of value of Queensland's great beef industry and Queenslanders who, at that time, demanded has acknowledged its support in the 1996-97 a massive improvement in the public hospital Budget. With the industry still in the grip of system. In addition, the new Clermont Hospital drought in many areas and prices only steadily has been allocated $105,000 to complete the recovering, we consider it essential that the planning and calling of contracts. That is part level of service to beef producers all over the of a $6m project over the next six years. State be increased. The DPI's beef budget for 1996-97 has been increased from the Transport is another area about which I previous year by almost $1m to just over must commend the Minister, the Honourable $31m. This represents a real turnaround on 2960 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 the continual and savage erosion of the DPI Ministers for their commitment to and their budget under Labor. As part of this year's understanding of the plight of rural budget, the Minister for Primary Industries, the Queensland, especially the electorate of Honourable Trevor Perrett, has announced the Charters Towers. creation of three new extension officer In conclusion—I look forward to hosting positions with an investment of $163,000 to Cabinet in Charters Towers on Monday, 16 boost frontline service to the beef industry. September. I welcome that visit by the These officers are being appointed to Mount Ministers and their staff to my electorate. On Isa, Bowen and Rockhampton—locations that note, I support the Government's Budget. which we believe will increase the level of service to areas where the need is greatest Hon. T. McGRADY (Mount Isa) and there is the greatest opportunity for (5.26 p.m.): I have been a member of this benefit. Parliament for seven years. I venture to suggest that there would not be a nicer person Industry endorses our view that it is crucial on the Government side of the Chamber than that there are sufficient frontline staff to ensure the member for Charters Towers. He is one of that the results of research and development the decent blokes. The sad thing is that when are widely distributed and adopted by the Minister's office writes a speech for him, producers as soon as possible. This research there is an awful lot in it which is totally and and development must be relevant to the utterly untrue. That goes right against his needs of industry, and the Minister for Primary character, because he does not normally tell Industries is ensuring this through the creation lies and he does not normally speak ill of of a partnership with industry. A key people. When he delivers a prepared speech, component of this is the development of the we are not seeing the real member for Beef Industry Institute, which has significant Charters Towers. producer involvement and will ensure that the DPI's research and extension is tailored to Mr Palaszczuk: He was more nasty this industry needs. evening than he ever has been. Additionally, Minister Perrett has formed Mr McGRADY: That is right. the Beef Industry Development Advisory Mr Palaszczuk: And it's not his style. Council to advise both the industry and himself Mr McGRADY: It is not his style; it is not on ways to enhance industry development his speech. and remove impediments to development. This council will be supported by the Live I am delighted to participate in this Cattle Export Advisory Committee, which will Budget debate, both in my capacity as the allow Government and industry to work shadow Minister for Mines and Energy and together to further develop and promote Regional Development and also as the Queensland's booming live cattle export trade. member for Mount Isa—an electorate which The creation of new jobs, the Beef Industry covers 240,000 square kilometres and which Institute, the Beef Industry Development takes in the City of Mount Isa, goes up north Advisory Council and the Live Cattle Export to Mornington Island, down south to Boulia Advisory Committee are just some examples and across to Cloncurry and takes in all of the of how the coalition Government is working small communities in that district. with industry for the benefit of Queensland. I At the outset, I express my must remind members that this is in stark disappointment at the Budget, for I believed contrast to Labor's style of government, which that there was a golden opportunity here for sought to cripple industries like the beef the Government to show some vision, to show industry with regulation, red tape and rebuff. some initiative and to show some decent spirit. I could go on for ages and go right across Yet this Budget can only be described as one the departments—— of broken promises, hidden cutbacks, extra taxes, but saddest of all, a Budget of lost Mr Palaszczuk: Keep going. opportunities. For six years, I sat on the Mr MITCHELL: We want to get out of Government side of this Chamber, and year here some time tonight! There are many more after year I heard criticism from the then initiatives across-the-board, including the water Opposition about the lack of incentives for the infrastructure programs that are coming on mining and energy industries. board over the coming year and a program set All jokes aside, our Government had a down for the next 10 years to provide funding proud record in the field of mining. In our few for water and sewerage infrastructure to all short years, we set up a fair royalty regime. local councils. This all means a boost to Under the old National and Liberal Party staffing levels in rural areas. I want to thank all Governments, the mining industry was the 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2961 milking cow for the Treasury in this State. We proceeds, after the paying back of the debt, had rail freights which everybody admitted will go towards that rail line. Government were simply a de facto form of taxation, a de members have the hide to stand up in this facto royalty system. We brought in a fair place and say that they are spending $24m. royalty regime. We introduced fair and For heaven's sake, that is a mere pittance competitive rail freights, particularly for the coal compared with the value of the freights which mining industry. We opened up huge tracts of that line covers. land, resulting in 12 new coal mines. That I spoke a few moments ago about the provided many, many jobs and facilitated initiatives and the vision which this investment in our State. We set up the plans Government does not have but which the for gas pipelines across the State. One of the Labor Government had. One of the greatest most important initiatives we introduced was success stories in this State was the the rebate in royalties for those mining Carpentaria/Mount Isa mineral province. I will companies which value-added. Those are just keep on talking about this because it was our some of the initiatives which our Government initiative. We called together the various introduced. In the Budget we are discussing Governments—the Northern Territory today, there are no incentives and no Government, the Federal Government, the initiatives for the mining industry. Queensland Government—and those Mr Palaszczuk: No vision. companies which had an interest in the area. This province covers an area the size of Mr McGRADY: There is no vision. It France. We set up these workshops and the reminds me of the old quotation of Mr task forces, and today we have an area in Menzies about a passing glance: "I did but north-west Queensland where there is going to see her passing by, and I will love her till I die." be an investment of some $2.5 billion. There Government members do not mind is the prospect of some 6,000 new jobs and standing up and making fine speeches and there are exports to the value of $30 billion. they do not mind going out to the mining That is all part of the vision that the Goss towns and taking credit, but this Government Labor Government had for this State and it is bleeds the industry, bleeds the people who coming to fruition. work in it and gives nothing at all back. This There is no vision in this Budget. This Government does not mind riding on the back Government is riding on the back of the of the mining industry, and it does not mind policies that the Labor Party put in place and going to Japan and other places and talking on the visions that we had. At a time when we about the importance of the industry, but it are calling out for vision, we see the Treasurer offers it no incentives and it has no vision at of this State almost steal $200m for the road all. That is the sad thing. in her backyard. It is a pity that the member for As I have said before many times, the Maroochydore is not here, because she would mining industry and the energy industry are be on her feet. The Government just the veins which run through this State, carrying abolished the toll on that road. I am talking the wealth and the prosperity, yet in this about a rail line which is carrying the wealth Budget they get nothing at all. The member from the north-west province right across to for Charters Towers talked about the money the coast. I see that the member for being spent on the Mount Isa to Townsville Maroochydore is here after all; she was railway line. That was already in the pipeline. asleep. I am sorry I woke her up. The Government should be investing in this Mrs Gamin: No, our conversation was railway line because it is carrying the wealth more interesting. from the Carpentaria/Mount Isa mineral Mr McGRADY: Even the member for province out to the coast and overseas. It is Burleigh, a lady who was raised in the mining one of the most important rail lines in this industry, has forgotten her roots. She has State. forgotten the mining industry. Her father would One of the last decisions the Labor have a fit if he saw her talking to her Cabinet made was that the proceeds of the neighbour instead of participating in the sale of the State owned gas pipeline would go debate about the mining industry. towards upgrading the Mount Isa to Townsville Mrs Gamin: I think he would be more railway. On two occasions in this Parliament, I upset to hear some of the things the member asked the Treasurer to confirm that those for Mount Isa says in this Chamber. moneys would still be allocated there and on two occasions she refused to answer me. I Mr Hegarty: No vision. see nothing in the Budget to say that those Mr Harper: Clouded vision. 2962 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

Mr McGRADY: At least I have some They did not tell us the full story. The job of an vision; those opposite have none. adviser is to advise a Minister. It is up to the I have already mentioned Mornington Minister and the Premier whether or not they Island, which is in the north of my electorate. accept that advice. Of course, the sad thing The Labor Government set aside $6m for a was that these two gentlemen accepted the new hospital there. That funding has advice and acted upon it, and it was wrong vanished. This Budget allocates a couple of advice. hundred thousand dollars to start some work One of the sad things is that this on it. As I said recently in this place, out of Government is searching around—it does not sight, out of mind. This Government simply know what to do—when it comes to energy. It does not care about the rest of the State. All it just abolished the Office of Energy concentrates on is the Sunshine Coast and Management. What did the Minister say? He the Gold Coast, the areas that the Premier said that the electricity industry would take and the Deputy Premier represent. I have said care of that. As he knows—or as he should before, and I will keep on saying it as long as I know—and as we all know, the electricity have breath in my body, that it is the mining industry's charter is to generate electricity and industry which produces and provides the sell it. It is not in the business of trying to look revenue which this Treasurer and this Premier for alternative forms of energy. It is in the receive to enable them to have one of the business of generating power and selling it. highest spending Budgets of all time, yet The scheme and the policies which the Labor precious little is returned to the industry or to Party brought in were hailed right around this the people who make up that industry. nation, right around the world. Queensland I get most concerned about the lack of was leading the way. The day those 10 people knowledge and the lack of action from the were sacked and that office was closed down Government in relation to the energy side of was a very sad day for Queensland. this portfolio. As I said recently, I do not waste Last night, members were discussing the my time in this place criticising individuals, but privatisation of Telstra. A few weeks ago, we the sad facts of life are that neither the were discussing the privatisation of the director-general of the department nor the electricity industry in this State. This Parliament Minister really understand the energy issues made the decision, after a lengthy debate, facing Queensland today. We all remember that we did not believe that that industry the way that Government members, when in should be privatised. Yet I ask honourable Opposition, attended public meetings and how members to listen to what is said in a they gave a commitment that when they were magazine's newsletter called Electricity Week. returned to office they would abolish the It states— Eastlink plans. We all remember that when they came into office one of the first things "AUSTA Electric will eventually be they were going to do was abandon Eastlink. privatised, according to company CEO Mr The crowds cheered and the backbenchers Alan Gillespie. 'That's the way the market cheered. What happened? They said that is developing', he told Electricity Week. they were going to pull out of Eastlink. Lo and 'Our job really is to increase the value of behold, all the learned columnists, all the the organisation as much as we can'." learned journalists, all the learned business I have news for Mr Gillespie and I have news people and all the learned Premiers from the for this Government. This Opposition will fight, other States cried in unison, "You're mad, you fight and fight again against any plans to don't know what you are talking about." privatise the electricity industry in this State. Then those opposite attended all the This industry has served Queensland well in business conferences, and the Premier the past and it will continue to serve attended a conference at the Sheraton and Queensland well in the years to come. We are he told all the business people from all around not going to stand by and allow these people the world that Queensland was in dire straits, to sell off the Crown jewels. Members sat here that the lights were going to go out and that and listened to Government backbenchers— we did not have enough power to fuel one after the other—saying, "It won't be industry. A few days later, what did the privatised." Yet the chief executive officer of members opposite do? Like mongrel dogs, AUSTA Electric is saying, "We are building up they said, "We were badly advised. We made the industry so we can sell it off." I give a a mistake. The lights will not go out. The lights warning: we will fight that tooth and nail, will still burn in Queensland", but the damage because we are not going to let this had been done. What excuse did they give? Government sell off an industry which has They said that they had been badly advised. served Queensland well for many years. 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2963

When I was the relevant Minister, Keith mining industry as a milking cow. If the De Lacy and I used to face criticism day in and honourable member has any fairness in her day out about the way we were milking the she would admit that, under six years of a electricity industry by way of dividends and Labor Government, more things happened in moneys in lieu of tax. In this Budget, which the mining industry than happened in the was handed down on Tuesday, one would previous 30 years. have expected the Treasurer to have reduced Mrs Wilson: I was listening. the amount of money taken from Government owned enterprises. But did she? Of course Mr McGRADY: What is the member not! What did we find? The figure has saying? increased from $300m to $699m. The Mrs Wilson: I said like the Moura mine Government is now using the electricity disaster. industry as a milking cow. Government Mr McGRADY: The member is a members have the hide to sit there silently disgusting creature. when, 12 months earlier, they were denouncing us for taking dividends. There is Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Laming): nothing at all wrong with Government owned Order! That term is unparliamentary. enterprises paying dividends. The Government Mr McGRADY: I withdraw it. and the shareholders are entitled to dividends. How dare the member refer to the But the hypocrisy of this Government is clear disaster at Moura. She ought to be ashamed when, in one clean sweep, it doubles the of herself. Queenslanders lost their lives at the amount of revenue that it is extracting from Moura mine. That should not be a debating the electricity industry. point. The member ought to be ashamed of The Labor Party in Opposition has had herself. time to sit back and observe where this Government has gone wrong. The Labor Party Mrs Wilson: I talked to your ministerial in Queensland recognises that the regional adviser. You didn't stop that happening. economies play a far greater role in You're a disgrace. Queensland than they do in any other State Mr McGRADY: The member is an because Queensland is the most absolute disgrace for raising that issue in the decentralised State. I would expect support debate, trying to score cheap political points from those members who represent regional off the widows of decent Queenslanders. areas. In this Cabinet we do not even have a Time expired. Minister for Regional Development. When the Labor Party regains office, we will ensure that Hon. M. J. FOLEY (Yeronga) there is somebody in the Cabinet whose (5.45 p.m.): In this contribution to the Budget responsibility is to ensure that the regions debate, I shall deal with matters concerning develop. That is an important part of the portfolios for which I have Opposition Government in this State. For everything that responsibility and then deal with some matters happens on the Gold Coast, the Sunshine of direct concern to my electorate of Yeronga. Coast or in the City of Brisbane, we have the The Budget with respect to the portfolio of regions out there that are playing a very Justice and Attorney-General indicates a valuable role. Under Labor we will give them theme whereby independent commissions are the incentive and the initiative and allow them an endangered species under this to use vision to make sure that Queensland Government. starts to develop. If one examines the Justice budget, one Mrs Wilson: Mining was dead when you sees a cut to the funds of the Criminal Justice were there. Commission to the point at which that commission had indicated that there will have Mr McGRADY: No. What happens to be a cutback in the undertaking of its core when people become members of Parliament responsibilities. Secondly, the Budget is that all the wisdom goes out the door. foreshadows the abolition of the Litigation Mrs Wilson: And Cloncurry's coming Reform Commission. That body, which is alive in the last two months. concerned with the reform of court rules and Mr McGRADY: If the honourable procedures, has made a very valuable member had listened before, she would know contribution towards the task of making justice that I gave examples of some of the things we speedier, more efficient and, hence, more did to build up the mining industry in this accessible to ordinary Queenslanders. State. People in the industry will tell her that The third commission which faces the National and Liberal Parties used the dangerous times ahead as a result of 2964 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 budgetary considerations is the Anti- were drawn up, will be profoundly disappointed Discrimination Commission. It is true that, in with the Government's intentions with respect the Budget, the allocation for that commission to the Local Government Commissioner. It is has had a modest increase in numerical all part of a pattern, namely, a pattern terms. However, the savage reduction in whereby this Government has no support from the Commonwealth Government understanding of and certainly no respect for has put a question mark over the future of the the work to be done by independent commission. The Attorney-General and commissions discharging their statutory Minister for Justice has failed to give any responsibilities according to law. assurance as to the long-term role and I turn now to the area of the Arts portfolio. operation of the commission. Indeed, it has I join with the Minister for The Arts in been mooted that that commission's functions commending the organisers of the Brisbane may be required to be discharged through the Festival. It has been a great success and I registries of Magistrates Courts throughout the repeat my earlier commendation of the Arts State. That would have the effect of Minister for continuing the support initiated by dismantling the work of the Anti-Discrimination the Labor Government for the establishment Commission and its important contribution to of that Brisbane Festival. The organisers of the ensuring equality before the law in festival deserve the congratulations of all Queensland. members of this House for helping to make Fourthly, in the Justice budget we see the such a great contribution to the cultural and provision for the Office of the Local artistic life of this State. Government Commissioner, which operates in connection with the Electoral Commission. It has been disappointing, though, that Again, we see the writing on the wall. An throughout regional Queensland artists and independent commission is being wound up cultural groups have found yet again that this because this Government's policy is not to Government has failed to show the commitment needed to regional arts. Under tolerate the work of independent commissions. the Labor Government, the capital base of So if one looks at those four independent that fund was committed at $15m, having commissions, the Criminal Justice been raised from $10m following a review in Commission, the Litigation Reform 1994-95. However, the current Government Commission, the Anti-Discrimination froze payments that were to be notified in May Commission and the Local Government and June of this year, and has now Commissioner, and one looks at the established a capital base in the order of budgetary provisions made for them, one sees $12m. It has sought to peddle the argument a common pattern, namely, that their funds throughout regional Queensland that this is an are being reduced or stopped altogether. That increase over the previous sum of $10m. In so represents a dangerous trend in the administration of justice. It represents an doing, it blithely ignores the commitment of intolerance on the part of this Government the Labor Government to an increased capital towards the proper functioning of independent base of $15m, and it blithely ignores the basis commissions. upon which negotiations were undertaken with the many local government councils that With respect to combating crime and worked hard and long to plan for regional arts corruption, the Criminal Justice Commission initiatives in their local areas, confident in the plays a vital role, and its independence is belief that the capital base would be $15m for central to that role. With respect to the reform the round of grants to be distributed several of court procedures, the Litigation Reform months ago. Commission plays a vital role. The abolition of that commission, which has been Those regional artists and local foreshadowed, will work to the detriment of all government councils have been disappointed Queenslanders who seek cheaper and by the actions of this Government. One can speedier access to justice. Those who believe only hope that, in due course, the in equality under the law will be profoundly Government will see sense and increase the saddened by the threats to the Anti- capital base of the fund at least to the level to Discrimination Commission that loom on the which the Labor Government was committed. horizon. Those who believe that we need a It has been disturbing also to note the cuts in rational system of local government the Arts budget to the Queensland Art Gallery, boundaries, a system that reflects the needs the Queensland Museum and the for planning in the twentieth and twenty-first Queensland Performing Arts Trust. centuries rather than the needs of the days of I turn to aspects affecting the electorate the gold rushes when many of the boundaries of Yeronga and, in particular, to provisions in 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2965 the Budget for transport infrastructure. The admiration to the Treasurer on fulfilling a very citizens of the Yeronga electorate already bear difficult task in bringing down this Budget. a heavy burden of rail and road traffic through Indeed, she is to be commended for their suburbs. That brings with it attendant overcoming the difficulties that this problems of noise, loss of amenity and the Government experienced in facing an division of local communities by transport unexpected shortfall in revenue as a result of corridors. It has therefore been doubly the inheritance that it received from the now disturbing to note the proposal set out in the Opposition and the shortfall in Federal current newsletter of the South-West Brisbane Government funding which, as everyone Chamber of Commerce, which I table, which knows, was short of expectations. It is indicates the views expressed by Councillor common knowledge that Queensland derives Bob Mills, Leader of the Liberal Opposition in just under 40 per cent of its total income by the Brisbane City Council, when talking to the way of Federal assistance grants. Chamber in August. The newsletter recounts a After listening to the debate so far, I know number of points made by Councillor Mills in that members opposite have made a number his address to the Chamber. Included in the of points. Although some of those points were points that are reported as having been made very interesting and illuminating, I cannot help by Councillor Mills is this point, which will be seizing upon a couple of them, particularly very disturbing to many Brisbane residents— those made by the Opposition Leader. "More bridges across the Brisbane Basically, he said that no Government could River are needed." have inherited a better financial position than That proposal from Councillor Mills, the was inherited by this Government from the person who would be the Lord Mayor of this Labor Party. That is fine if one sets the bar low city, the Leader of the Liberal Opposition in and the Opposition wants to compare its the Brisbane City Council, is one that causes Government with the cot-case Governments of me a great deal of concern. I call on Councillor Victoria and South Australia. In those States, Mills to clarify his remarks with respect to the the conservative Governments inherited a need for more bridges across the Brisbane huge financial disaster. However, we in this River. In particular, I call on Councillor Mills to State have never been in that position through make it perfectly clear that no bridges should 30 years of coalition Government prior to the be built in the areas of Fairfield, Yeronga, Labor Party taking over. Perhaps the Tennyson or neighbouring suburbs. There is Opposition Leader should reflect on the already a very heavy burden of traffic and State's financial position that the Labor Party consequent disruption upon the residents of inherited in 1989. Just in case the Opposition those riverside suburbs, and the suggestion Leader has a short or selective memory, I will has been mooted in years past that there be a remind him that at that time when the Labor bridge across the Brisbane River between the Party took over Treasury had almost $1 billion. University of Queensland and the area of Of course, that is not counting the fully funded Fairfield or Yeronga. superannuation schemes that the conservative Government put in place which, I had hoped that that proposal was well as has been pointed out, are still in good in and truly in the dustbin of history. However, it order. is of the utmost importance to my constituents that Councillor Mills, having put on the political Nevertheless, the shadow Treasurer agenda in this way the need for more bridges highlighted the fact that, during the term of the across the Brisbane River, come forth Labor Government, there was no raiding of immediately and rule out any bridges in that trust funds or selling off of the family silver. area of the Brisbane River. The inner suburbs Those comments started to alarm me of Brisbane are not merely conduits through because, being a trusting sort of person, I which road and rail traffic passes. The inner thought that I may have been getting the suburbs of Brisbane are home to many wrong impression. So I made a couple of thousands of Queenslanders. They want a inquiries and, lo and behold, I found out that livable environment in which to go about their things were not quite the way the Opposition family life and a livable environment in which has projected them to be. Apparently in 1991 to raise children. the then Government, which is now in Opposition, raided $101m from the Sitting suspended from 6 to 7.30 p.m. Auctioneers and Land Agents Fidelity Mr HEGARTY (Redlands) (7.30 p.m.): It Guarantee Fund. During 1991-92, the then is with a great deal of pleasure that I rise to Government extracted a $43.6m grab from take part in this Budget debate. I would like to that fund. Then during 1992-93, the then place on record my congratulations and Government took another $16.4m from that 2966 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 fund. Perhaps by that time there was little left State—and we recognise that we have a good in the fund. However, undaunted, in 1994-95 asset—but he offset the borrowings against the then Government managed to extract that. If one does that, eventually one's another projected $15.1m. So we are borrowings will exceed the net worth of one's assuming that there is not very much left in assets. that fund. Mrs Bird: Rubbish! Mr Rowell: It was a milch cow. Mr HEGARTY: Of course it will. The Mr HEGARTY: I take that interjection member should see what happens if she from the member for Hinchinbrook. At the keeps refinancing the borrowings on her time, he was a member of this place and he house. Soon she will owe more than her would have seen the rorting that went on. house is worth. Basically, that is the situation I have not even mentioned the that the coalition had to face when it came to ambulance boards. For many years, those Government. boards very earnestly put together funds but Today, many Opposition members have when the then Government restructured those raised the issue of the carryover of funds. That boards, those funds were extracted. Of was rather curious. I thought, "Maybe they did course, the Nominal Defendant Fund was not do that. Maybe they just got all their another one. So when members opposite start accounting right, spent the money that they talking about raiding funds, accountability and allocated in each Budget and then the great financial position that this reintroduced new funds as each year went Government inherited, perhaps they should on." However, near my electorate we had the reflect on their own history over the past six saga of the Cleveland Court House. I will touch and a half years. on that matter shortly. However, in my Mr Santoro interjected. research I found that in the 1992-93 Budget Mr HEGARTY: As the member for $600,000 was allocated for the Bundaberg Clayfield, the Honourable Minister for Training Court House—another similar situation. The and Industrial Relations, just reminded me, then Government promised that construction members opposite did not even mention the would commence in 1993-94 and that the Workers Compensation Fund. Of course, they project would be completed in 1994-95. failed to recognise the need to address the Surprise, surprise, here we are in September fiscal imbalance of that fund. They left it in a 1996—only six months in Government—and potential deficit situation of $400m. That is a when the coalition took over earlier this year difficult matter for any Treasurer or any not a sod of soil had been turned. Of course, Minister coming into that respective portfolio to the saga is similar in relation to a number of address. projects throughout the State. Another project that I came across in my research was the It is always hard for a party to come into Cunnamulla Aboriginal Health Centre. Five Government and have to raise taxes. With the years ago, it was allocated $718m. Of course, best of intentions, this Government, when in that is just another vision, too. Opposition, believed that the financial position of Queensland was other than what it actually Having addressed some of the is. In Government, it now realises the true misconceptions put forward by members situation. Like any good housekeeper—and I opposite, I would now like to highlight the relate this to a basic housekeeping budget or positive sides to the Budget, that is, the being in business—when suddenly one finds Government's fiscal plans to keep taxes low, that things are not the way one planned, one fully fund contingent liabilities such as the has to take action. One can choose to take a workers' compensation scheme and the couple of options. One can borrow against superannuation fund for public servants, which one's assets. This is where the net debt I have touched upon already, and also not to situation comes in. I will relate this situation to borrow for recurrent expenditure. Those are the simplistic situation of a net debt free the things that we have to bear in mind household. Generally speaking, we all start off because, as I said before, in our daily lives we in life with little by way of assets. Usually, we can all borrow against assets as long as those accumulate assets by borrowing and, by assets are funding the debt and we have the borrowing at the right time and paying off the capacity to repay. Another aspect of this interest on our debts, we eventually achieve a matter is to restrict borrowings on infrastructure net gain. I draw the simple analogy of paying projects that are not able to service that debt. off the mortgage on one's house. That is what A few positives came out of the Budget the former Treasurer, the member for Cairns, that I would like to touch upon: the $733m did: he used the net asset base of the boost to the 10-year Hospital Rebuilding Plan, 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2967 which I will touch on a bit more shortly; the Unfortunately, the Cleveland Court House $400m upgrade of the Pacific Highway; and the Cleveland Police Station have had $105m to Corrective Services; $70m as part of rather chequered careers. In the 1989 and the the $100 billion investment in water 1992 election campaigns, the Labor Party infrastructure; $40.8m in water infrastructure to promised new facilities for the area, but, of support the development of the sugar industry course, we do not have anything at all. In fact, on the Atherton Tableland—a very important the Redland Shire Council has asked me for industry for this State; $40m for regional road assistance in the matter. I have endeavoured development; $38.1m for new rail to do what I can to fast-track the development. infrastructure; and a further $26m for police Unfortunately, because of the tardy response capital works, including major works to the of the Labor Party, the best site for the police Brisbane City Watch-house. station and the courthouse was missed, as the One area of interest highlighted by the then Government would not allocate the Opposition today, which I found a little bit money. Eventually, last year $600,000 was curious, was unemployment. Everyone abhors allocated to acquire land for the courthouse, the prospect of anybody being unemployed, but by that time the site identified by the shire especially the young. I have reflected upon council as the best had been sold. The land that has been bought is further down the hill the subject, and I can remember an where there are construction problems owing unemployment figure of over 11 per cent during the Labor Party's tenure of Government to the fact that the site had been a dump. A between 1989 and earlier in 1996. In the lot of extra structural work will have to be done Budget Estimates we have highlighted the fact before the project can get off the ground. Some problems are being experienced, but I that, because of this very positive Budget in am sure that the Government will address which money will be allocated to infrastructure them as quickly as possible. development and job creation, a potential 44,072 jobs could be created because of the In the area of emergency services, I am money that will be spent on various projects in very pleased that money has been allocated areas such as law and order, education, for the relocation of the Cleveland Ambulance health, social welfare, housing and transport, Station, which also services my electorate. As just to name a few of the larger ones, and not the Redlands electorate grows, obviously I forgetting the mining, energy and electricity look forward to having an ambulance station areas. within the electorate. Of course, that will not happen this year, but hopefully it will be The Government has been very pro-active forthcoming in next year's Budget. Certainly it on the law and order issue. Earlier this year, a will happen as soon as possible. new police station was opened in the Redlands electorate. I pay credit to the The building of the Victoria Point State Opposition, because it allocated the money in High School was, again, an initiative of the last year's Budget—a little belatedly, but it previous National Party Government. The land came good. I would not want to be cynical and was allocated in the eighties, the money was allocated in the financial year 1994-95 and say that it was an election year! The land had work has commenced on the site. The been allocated by the National Party Government has allocated another $5m for Government in the eighties, and eventually the completion of the school to enable it to the rest of the money came through. The open in 1997. There has been a big call for people of Redlands are very pleased about the completion of that school in my electorate. the opening of the new police station, Children have to travel from the bay islands because the area is growing. In addition, the and other areas to the high schools at Police Minister has allocated $20,000 to tidy Cleveland, Alexandra Hills and Capalaba. up certain things the station was deficient in. Therefore, the Victoria Point State High School I turn now to justice, and I have will be very well received when it opens next mentioned the Cleveland Court House which is year. The Bayside TAFE which my in an electorate that adjoins mine. The constituents attend is also a beneficiary under services in the Redland Shire are generally the Budget. A sum of $0.06m has been centralised in the electorates of Cleveland and allocated to provide a new covered workshop, Capalaba. The Redlands electorate does not a hairdressing and beauty centre and a have a central business district or much in the resource centre. way of industry. Therefore, I am pleased that The Government has given a in this year's Budget $4m has been allocated commitment to purchase some for the completion of the Cleveland Court environmentally sensitive land which was House. discussed by the Labor Government in its 2968 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

Koala Coast plan. Nothing ever came of funding to the Logan Hospital. My electorate is Labor's commitments in relation to that land quite large and the western part of my because it did not have anywhere near electorate covers the eastern part of Logan enough the money in the account to meet any City. Therefore, many of my constituents have of its commitments. However, this year we their medical needs attended to by the Logan have allocated $500,000 for a program Hospital. They will be very pleased about the covering a number of years to acquire some of upgrade of the Logan Hospital. the land. I am very pleased about that The other area I would like to touch upon because my constituents are very in the short time available is that of business environmentally aware. In fact, about 18 and industry. The Cleveland industrial estate is months ago when the council engaged in being expanded, which I am very pleased public consultation on its strategic plan, which about. The population of the Redlands has just come out, it asked the people what electorate is growing, and we need work they wanted. The people said that they would opportunities for people. My constituents also rather keep the bushland and forgo some of welcome the energy initiatives under which the farm land that is now becoming a little $1.8m will be allocated for solar hot water fragmented. That was the people's choice. system rebates. The rebate is $300 for a Therefore, we are very pleased that the single panel and $500 for a double panel for money has been allocated to fulfil that both new and replacement systems. commitment and preserve some of the land that would otherwise have been taken up for We have heard a lot about the upgrading housing. of the Pacific Highway. That road touches the western part of my electorate and I am very The issue of health is very important. pleased that the upgrade of the road is forging Earlier tonight, the member for Mount Coot- ahead, because we need a decent road to the tha said a number of things about the health Gold Coast. The Government is going to situation which I have been reflecting upon. It complete that road through allocations in this was a shame that the Minister for Health was Budget, which provides a record $400m for not present at the time. The member for roads. Mount Coot-tha said that all the money allocated to Health was being spent in Time expired. Brisbane. Certainly we are spending money in Hon. D. M. WELLS (Murrumba) Brisbane, because nothing much has been (7.50 p.m.): It is a pleasure to contribute to the spent here before. However, the honourable debate tonight, in spite of the tedious filibuster member has obviously forgotten about all the being run by the honourable member for money that has been spent in Townsville and Redlands. As he was speaking, I noted a Cairns. Maybe a trip north would not only number of points on which he could educate the member but also clear her mind reasonably be refuted. I was going to refute so that she is a little more perceptive. him point by point, but I thought the House found his speech so tedious that my repetition The Government is fast-tracking the of it would only make things worse and so I development of the Redlands Hospital. That have decided to talk about something different will result in an increase in bed numbers, which instead. is great to see. That will be under way next year. I wish to speak to the House concerning the overall economic philosophy which inspires Mr Horan: Twenty-four more than Labor this Budget. Political commentators have been was going to give. somewhat less than unanimous in their Mr HEGARTY: We will have 24 more estimates of what has been going on in the beds than we would have had under Labor. Budget. Some of them have described it as a There will be an increase from the 40 beds high-taxing, big-spending Budget. Some have that we currently have to 120 beds, with an even hinted that this is a return to Keynesian additional 24 beds for mental health patients. economic philosophy. Others have noted the That is a real boost. In the Health budget, the downsizing of the Public Service which Minister has allocated $2.1 billion over a 10- preceded it, the savage cuts to the operating year period under the Hospital and Health expenses of departments and, of course, the Services Building Plan. That will be the biggest privatisation of Suncorp as instances that this Capital Works Program in Australia. The Government was running on the basis of an coalition has scheduled $295m for capital economic rationalist philosophy. works expenditure on hospitals and associated The truth is that what we are dealing with facilities. That is very well received by people in is a hybrid beast consisting of an economic the Redlands. I also commend the increase in rationalist Budget with a thin veneer of political 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2969 opportunism placed above it. The true analysis spend money on things such as education is that this Government actually had the and health. It has the money to spend money to spend because Queensland was left because we were net debt free. Political net debt free by the previous Government. advantage dictated spending it. If we look at Queensland was in the same situation as a what the money is being spent on, we see householder who has paid off his or her that the spending is not actually inconsistent mortgage and, therefore, has more cash flow with the particular brand of economic available to spend on those things which rationalism prescribed by the Under Treasurer. sustain daily life. Political advantage dictated Economic rationalism—— spending it. Government members interjected. Mr Horan: If you got 4th prize in the Mr WELLS: I am sorry. I hate to casket one year, would you budget on winning interrupt honourable members opposite. it next year? Those one-off payments are like 4th prize. It only comes once in a blue moon. Mr Woolmer: Are you saying the State You wouldn't budget for that every year, would wouldn't be carrying a debt over? you? That is what one-off payments are. Mr WELLS: No, I did not say that. Mr WELLS: I am not talking about one- Economic rationalism is the philosophy off payments; I am taking about the fact that that the market should dictate what is to be we left the Government a Budget that was net done and when it is to be done in the debt free. That puts the—— economy. That means small government and Mr Littleproud: It's a very simplistic minimal government intervention in the approach. economy. It means downsizing, outsourcing Mr WELLS: The honourable member and defunding. It means that one does not can say it is a simplistic approach, but the use the Government as a means of world is not as complex as some of the stimulating the economy. Government's economic advisers would make However, there are variants on this it seem to them. The Government has gone philosophy, and one variant is provided by the off the rails in this Budget simply by virtue of present Under Treasurer. If honourable the fact that it has been confused by a whole members look at the writings of our present lot of economic hocus-pocus coming from Under Treasurer, Dr Doug McTaggart, they will people who are peddling stuff to the see that, despite his mainstream economic Government which is nothing better than rationalist approach, there is one area in which snake oil. A whole lot of voodoo economics he thinks that Government spending might are activating the Government's Budget. It is boost private investment. He thinks that getting voodoo economic advice from Government spending is desirable for the Treasury and Liberal members are acting on purposes of boosting private investment, not that advice to the long-term detriment of the for the purposes of providing jobs or for agrarian socialist philosophy that National improving the quality of life of the people. He Party members subscribe to. believes spending should be specifically Dr Watson: The Budget has nothing to targeted to boosting private investment. He do with net debt free. That is nonsense. says that this will be so if the Government A Government member: We thought expenditure is on "public capital, on social you were more intelligent. infrastructure, such as roads, communications, education and so on, that enhances the Mr WELLS: I am keen to take all of productivity of private capital". He wrote that in these interjections, because I want honourable Fiscal Policy in Budget Deficits in the journal members to have the opportunity to have their Policy in the summer of 1993-94. What we words immortalised. I am interested to hear see from this Government is an infrastructure from the honourable member for Moggill. spending program. This infrastructure Dr Watson: The net debt is talking spending program is of precisely the type that about the financial assets and the financial this economic rationalist Under Treasurer liabilities. It is about the flows this year. This is dictated and, moreover, so are privatisations, about the flows this year. such as the privatisation of Suncorp. They are Mr WELLS: That is exactly right. I am exactly in accordance with his philosophy. talking assets and liabilities. By virtue of the The infrastructure program, of course, was fact that this State is now, as a result of the not one that resounded loudly in the economic management of the previous electorate of Murrumba. The people of the Government, free of those types of liabilities, electorate of Murrumba did not have great the Government is in a better position to expectations of this Government and, as a 2970 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 result, they were not disappointed. It was kind Mr Rowell: Did that ever happen under of the Government to continue the funding the Labor Government? which we had already provided for the four- Mr WELLS: Mr Speaker, I need some laning of Deception Bay Road. I am glad that protection from you, or else they will. the Government did not stop that. As to any initiatives for the benefit of the people of my Mr Rowell: Like a warm lettuce. area—that was something which was beyond Mr WELLS: I am sorry? the Government's power to add to or detract Mr Rowell: I am only interjecting from. Nevertheless, the main point I am because I want to extract some information making is that we have a Budget which is from you. exactly in conformity with what we might have predicted if we had read the writings of the Mr WELLS: What did the honourable Under Treasurer a long time ago. member say about warm lettuce leaves? The detail in this Budget is all economic Mr Rowell: I wouldn't take that. rationalist detail. The detail is outsourcing, Mr WELLS: I am taking it; the downsizing and defunding. I would like to honourable member should tell me about speak firstly about outsourcing. I can take only warm lettuce leaves. one example of each of these exercises in Mr Rowell: I was saying did you ever political and social vandalism. The example have firms that then referred on to the Labor that I will take of outsourcing is the example Party at all working out in private enterprise, or drawn from the slashing of funds to Crown law. not? We heard the Honourable the Attorney- General on the radio this morning saying that Mr WELLS: What I am pointing out is there had been increases to the Office of the that this Government is going to be doing the Director of Public Prosecutions. That may very outsourcing. We kept a strong Crown law so well be so. What he did not say was that he that we could get internal legal advice. I am had cut funding to the Crown law office by trying to talk about the economic philosophy $900,000. That will mean the sacking of 15 which actuates this Government's Budget, and lawyers, 10 clerks, five administrative officers the honourable member opposite is talking and five secretaries—35 staff in all. Those about warm lettuce leaves. I do not know what people are going to be laid off. the National Party has come to or what the Liberal Party has come to. There was a day What is going to be the consequence of when the National Party stood for the broad that? Obviously, the consequence to those acres, for the wide brown land, and the Liberal people and their families will be negative. Party stood for the boardrooms of Brisbane. What about the consequence to the exercise What do they stand for now? They stand for of government? The first thing that they will the swizzle sticks of Surfers Paradise and the have to do is to do a lot more outsourcing. It jacuzzis of Caloundra. That is what those will mean that they will have a great deal more people on the other side of the House now cargo that they can spread around by stand for, and those who cannot aspire to distributing briefs to their mates in Right Wing either of those quality-of-life ambitions sit here legal firms. That has a significant in the House talking during other people's disadvantage, because the more—— speeches about warm lettuce leaves. Mr Mr Rowell: You're away with the fairies. Deputy Speaker, I ask you: what calibre of person do we have here on the other side of Mr WELLS: I am sorry? the House? Mr Rowell: I think you're away with the The point that I was making about fairies. You are presuming that the outsourcing of legal work is that we lose the Government is going to go to Right Wing legal benefit of the memory of decades. If the firms. Government keeps the work with Crown law, Mr WELLS: I do not know how much then it has its in-house legal advice, legal the honourable member knows about fairies, advice which is based on memory which goes but he does not know a lot about law. The back for as long as Queensland has had a consequence of outsourcing this type of work Crown law office. But if the Government puts it will be that it is going to be in the hands of a out, then it puts it out to a firm which one day legal firm which one day may very well be will be for the Government and another day representing the Government but another day will be against it. Though those firms will is going to be opposing the Government. operate with goodwill, they will neither have Obviously, those firms will do their level the information base nor will they have the best—— degree of commitment which one would attain 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2971 by having a law firm handling the case which Dr Watson: Why is the Public Service in served the interests of the Government only. the Budget papers shown as going to grow by This is what comes of the $900,000 cut that 1.1 per cent? the Government is introducing—but not Mr WELLS: The devil is in the detail. publicising—to the office of Crown law. We get these broad-brush statements in the So that is what happens with outsourcing. Budget papers, but when one looks at the The next economic rationalist program which is specific program, one sees that it is cut, cut, being cultivated in this Budget is downsizing. I cut. refer by way of one example—as I said to Let me cite another example since the honourable members, I will be providing only honourable members opposite are a bit one example of each—to the Community touchy about that. Let us talk about Justice Program. That program was defunding. On 23 April this year, the Attorney- established with the intention of assisting with General's Department wrote a letter to the neighbourhood dispute resolutions. But it had development director at training and a broader agenda. That broader agenda was employment in Queensland in the department to ensure that the people of this State had of the relevant Minister pointing out that the access to the resolution of disputes in all JP training program was well under way and circumstances. As a result of careful that it could be completed with sufficient cultivation, that program had been built up. Justices of the Peace (Qualified) available to The mediators were extraordinarily motivated serve all areas provided that a bit more work and were prepared to travel long distances. At was done in the following electorates: Western the time of the last report, we had a Downs, Crows Nest, Callide, Barambah, Community Justice Program, a system of Cunningham, Lockyer, Warwick and community mediation, which would ensure Tablelands. Those are electorates that some that in any part of the State of Queensland a honourable members opposite might possibly person who had a dispute which they wanted be interested in. resolved would be able to call on the mediators of the program to do so. What was proposed was a program involving training programs in a number of Mr Pearce: It was an excellent program country centres: Dalby, Roma, Chinchilla, for disadvantaged persons. Miles, Injune, Crows Nest, Esk, Oakey, Mr WELLS: I thank the honourable Gayndah, Monto, Biloela, Theodore, member. That is exactly right. It was an Rolleston, Kingaroy, Murgon, Pittsworth, excellent program from the point of view of Goondiwindi, Gatton, Boonah, Laidley, building social capital, because the diminution Inglewood, Texas, Stanthorpe, Warwick, of disharmony in the community which was Mareeba, Atherton, Mount Molloy, Ravenshoe always attendant on the intervention of the and Chillagoe. Honourable members opposite Community Justice Program is one which has might possibly have been interested in such a frequently prevented people from having to go program. The money for the program was to court, but more often has prevented people available and it was going to come from from taking the law into their own hands. Commonwealth funds, which only needed the imprimatur of the relevant Minister to be sent What is the reaction of this Government on. What happened? Before this could come to this program? It is axing it. It is axing the to the attention of the Minister, a phone call Dispute Resolution Division of the Attorney- came from the Attorney-General's Department General's Department. I do not hear saying, "We are downsizing. We do not want honourable members opposite talking about the money any more." Hundreds of thousands warm lettuce leaves now, because they know of dollars which would have provided that that they are doing it. They know that what training, which would have provided that they are doing is something dictated by some benefit to the electorates of members mean-spirited, miserable stinginess—some opposite, was kissed goodbye simply on the economic rationalist claptrap about downsizing basis of rancid economic rationalist Government services and, consequently, ideology—a penchant for defunding programs, downsizing the quality of life of people. This for saving money for saving money's Government is destroying social harmony, it is sake—when the money that would have been destroying social capital by downsizing this spent would have been an investment in the program. quality of life of people. Dr Watson interjected. What was the JP reform program all Mr WELLS: I will take the honourable about—the program which this Government is member's interjection. cancelling with another Bill that it is bringing 2972 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 forward in the near future? It was all about Budget is a confidence trick on the people of involving people in the delivery of justice. It Queensland. This Government has the was about the democratisation of the justice arrogance and the hide to present a Budget system. It was about the democratisation of that breaks fundamental election promises, a power in this State. What is the Government Budget that introduces a raft of new taxes and doing with it? It is killing it because of some charges, a Budget that raids the investment economic, ideological, absurd presumptions. stockpiles of the State and a Budget that The honourable members opposite have steals from last year's Budget to fund its at least parted company with their colleagues Capital Works Program. This is a Budget of in Canberra, to the extent that the savagery of sectional interests that threatens the the cuts to education and health which we underlying financial integrity of public finance have seen at the Federal level have not been in this State. duplicated here. Mr Horan: Ask your leader about the Mr Santoro interjected. $34m he tried to steal from capital works to cover up some of his recurrent debt. Mr WELLS: I take the honourable member's interjection. Ms BLIGH: The member should show us his proof. I ask the member to table the Mr Santoro: I wasn't talking to you. documents. He has never been able to table Mr WELLS: Well then, Mr Deputy those documents. Tonight, I will table Speaker, the honourable member should not documents that show him who steals money. have been talking, and I invite you to tell him The sheer hypocrisy of the glib media so. releases issued by Ministers on Tuesday which Mr Santoro: You're just shitty I am not blatantly manipulate Budget information talking to you. cannot be allowed to go unchallenged and Mr WELLS: I take the honourable unexposed. member's interjection so as to get into Mr Palaszczuk: You're caught out. Hansard a true depiction of the type of person Ms BLIGH: He will be caught out. In this that the honourable member opposite is when regard, I will have some particularly sobering he has his back to the wall. I noticed that he comments for the Minister for Housing and did not interject when I was talking about his Public Works in due course. department and about the fact that it was dudded by the Attorney-General's It is my intention this evening to focus Department. We did not hear any interjections primarily on the effects of this Budget on then. public works. However, I would like to turn briefly in the first instance to the effects of this In my own generous way, I have not been Budget on public sector employees. I note able to complete my material because I with some concern that there does not appear wanted to give honourable members opposite to be any provision made for wage increases the opportunity to contribute their ideas during for public sector employees in the coming my speech. I have always found that people financial year. It would appear that, on the learn best by the Socratic dialectic, and if there face of it, public sector workers can expect is any chance of these people learning nothing by way of wage increases from this anything at all, it has to be based on a Budget. Honourable members may recall that response to the things that they say. What the enterprise bargaining agreements covering they have said so far betrays no public sector employees are about to expire. understanding at all of the hidden agenda of These agreements contain requirements for the Budget which they are here to support. the parties to begin further rounds of They are merely lobby fodder, here to support negotiations three months prior to the a Budget which does not have any merit. It expiration of each agreement. Assuming that does not address the erosion of our human relevant Ministers are fulfilling the capital or of our social capital or of our natural requirements of these binding industrial capital. It is just a superficial veneer of political agreements, departmental representatives expediency over economic hocus-pocus. and unions should be currently engaged in Time expired. preliminary wage discussions, and I know that Ms BLIGH (South Brisbane) (8.10 p.m.): in a number of departments that is the case. It The 1996-97 Queensland State Budget will no would seem, however, that these negotiations doubt go down as one of the most appalling are occurring in a financial vacuum. attempts to mislead the public and distort the Again, members may recall that in the truth in the living memory of this State. This 1993-94 Budget, the then Treasurer, Keith De 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2973

Lacy, made specific reference in his second- deception here because the notes in the reading speech to an allocation being put Budget papers state— aside to ensure payment of any wage "Expenditure was lower than increases which may arise out of the anticipated mainly due to a decrease in enterprise bargaining negotiations which had the client capital works program totalling begun prior to that Budget being brought $226.75 million caused by client delays in down. No such reference was made in the formulating their program." second-reading speech that we heard in this House on Tuesday. Have members ever heard such double-speak in their life? In other words, the clients are to Mr Littleproud: What about the $6m blame. Clients, of course, are Government for my rangers? departments and agencies. Ms BLIGH: Exactly—there is no Mr Pearce: A poor excuse, that. provision at all for wage increases for the Ms BLIGH: That is a great excuse! I Minister's rangers. What expectations can have no doubt at all that those departmental public sector workers have of a wage increase managers and planners who had to put their being paid any time in the next 12 months projects on hold to satisfy the demands of the when the Treasurer has not even recognised Treasurer will all be choking on their Wheaties their claims in her Budget or her commentary when they see the blame being laid at their on the Budget? feet for the stalling of these projects. Just as Effective public spending and targeted everybody but the Premier is responsible for public sector activity are critical to the the disasters in the Public Service Bill, it seems balanced, efficient and equitable functioning that everybody but the Treasurer is of our State economy and the economic, responsible for the decline in capital works social and environmental services provided by under her stewardship. the Government, yet this Budget plunders The next step in the expose of this State Government agencies and exposes the Government's deceit came with the seven months of contemptible neglect that presentation of the Budget papers. There are this Government has wrought on Queensland so many falsehoods in these documents that business during the go-slow, the freeze on it is difficult to identify the most outrageous capital works expenditure, since February. The claims, but I have to say that Budget Paper unemployment figures presented in this House No. 3 takes a lot of beating in the fraud this week are a clear demonstration of the stakes. Budget Paper No. 3, the capital effect of this freeze—the freeze which the outlays document, seeks to perpetrate the Treasurer and the Minister opposite have fraud on the people of this State that this consistently denied. They have denied the Government has made a significant injection freeze at every opportunity. They have even of funds into capital projects. What a joke! In gone to the extent of getting dorothy dixers fact, the opposite is true. Let there be no asked from their back bench to give them an mistake: the so-called record expenditure on opportunity to stand up here and deny it. capital works is nothing but a fraud. The $4 The exposure of this contemptible fraud billion in outlays planned for 1996-97 has began with the tabling of the Treasurer's been achieved by cuts to the Labor capital Annual Statement on Tuesday. This works budget for the last financial year—the document reveals the full extent of her Sheldon freeze. In fact, the alleged increases freeze—a total of $406m unspent because of are actually less than the amounts saved from the Treasurer's decree that capital works Labor's allocations—moneys saved for the projects be frozen. The Public Works and Treasurer's pocket. Housing portfolio alone records a lapsed Dr Watson: You just copied Peter appropriation, that is, money allocated but Beattie's speech. You didn't write this at all. unspent, of $342m—$342m worth of projects Ms BLIGH: The member has it the that were lapsed and jobs forgone. This wrong way round. The coalition's capital works compares with a lapsed appropriation of only freeze between February and September this $62m in this area in the last financial year. year robbed $406m from planned capital That is a staggering difference of $280m. The outlays. Let me repeat this, because it is quite major component of this massive lapsed important to understand. The coalition's capital appropriation is $252m of unspent moneys in works freeze between February and the Building Trust Fund. What reasons are September this year robbed $406m from given for the reduction in the spending in this planned capital outlays, yet the Treasurer has fund? I am afraid we have to face a lot more returned only $383m of this to the capital 2974 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 works for 1996-97. The alleged increase is Ms BLIGH: I referred to the Minister's merely adding some of this stolen money from press releases, not to him. the 1995-96 Labor Budget to the base Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Laming): allocation for capital works. Government Order! Is the Minister saying that he was members ought to be ashamed of personally—— themselves. In fact, the coalition will have spent less over the 1996-97 and 1995-96 Mr CONNOR: I was personally financial years on capital works than the Labor maligned. Budget allocated. It is less than would have Ms BLIGH: I will table the press been spent if Labor had not increased its releases. I withdraw. 1996-97 capital works budget at all. That is a This is the Minister who has presided over conservative assumption, given the a freeze that has cost the construction industry commitment of the previous Government to $400m worth of projects and cost the building accelerated capital works. workers of this State $400m worth of jobs. His The coalition has effectively cut $23m inactivity has run down the economy of this from capital works over these two years State. He has stood idly by while Treasury without even allowing for the effects of stole the funds allocated for major works and inflation. I would like to table for the benefit of projects. He has colluded with the Treasurer to the House a table which is derived from page bring industry in this State to a grinding halt. 5 of Budget Paper No. 3 and which illustrates His preposterous claims of massive annual the two-year comparison between Labor and rises—— the coalition for total capital works Mr CONNOR: I rise to a point of order. expenditures and for designated policy areas Mr Deputy Speaker, I ask for your indulgence. under the program budgeting format. It All of this is quite untrue. I find it offensive. I demonstrates—and I will give an example in ask that it be withdrawn. the area of social welfare and housing—that in 1995-96, $412m was allocated for capital Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! There is no point of order. works and that under the Treasurer's freeze only $298m was spent. The total cost of the Mr CONNOR: With respect, Mr Deputy freeze then was $114m. Under the coalition Speaker, the member is speaking about me Budget this year, there is an allocation of personally. She is saying that I have colluded $238m. On a two-year basis of the previous with the Treasurer. Labor Party allocation, there would have been Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! There a Budget of $825m and under the two-year is no point of order. allocation of this Government, we see an allocation of $536m. That is a total decrease Ms BLIGH: The Minister's claims of in capital works in the portfolio of the Minister massive annual rises are calculated from for Public Works and Housing of $288m, yet comparisons of this year's allocation with the he has the unmitigated gall to put out glib coalition's freeze outlays. As I said before, press releases claiming record spending. He does the Minister think the people of this State must think the people of this State are stupid. are stupid? Does the Minister really think that the construction industry will not notice that the There are significant increases levels of Government activity have not demonstrated in this table in education, health increased in real terms? Does he really think and police capital works over the two years. the Master Builders Association is not going to But these have all been funded by savage notice this fraud? cuts to housing, welfare, the environment and The 24 per cent rise claimed in Budget transport. The alleged increases are nothing Paper No. 3 essentially double counts the 12 more than reallocations among policy areas. per cent cuts that the coalition made to the There is no overall increase in capital works 1995-96 Budget, that is, it appears twice. Not allocations in this Budget. It is a fraud. Yet the satisfied with stealing it in the first place, they Minister has made some staggering claims count it twice. First it appears as a reduction in about funding of capital works in this Budget. the 1995-96 Budget and then again as an He has produced press releases which present increase in the 1996-97 Budget, when it is the most fraudulent and specious claims nothing more than money withheld from the about massive and record increases. people of Queensland—stolen by the Mr CONNOR: I rise to a point of order. I Treasurer and her henchman "Connor the Con find the words offensive and ask for them to Man" to pay for the excesses of the coalition's be withdrawn. promises—— 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2975

Mr CONNOR: I rise to a point of order. Treasurer and her Budget, but some of the What can I say? central questions are these. I ask the Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The Treasurer: where is the $406m that her honourable member finds that remark Government and her Public Works Minister offensive. failed to spend during the freeze? What happened to the $406m worth of lapsed Ms BLIGH: I withdraw. appropriations? How much of this money finds It is money that is now being recycled as its way into the Treasurer's personal slush a false rise in this financial year. The Minister fund, the Treasurer's advance? claims huge percentage increases in spending The full effect of the freeze, especially in by comparing his 1996-97 allocation with the regional Queensland, may never be known. actual amounts spent under his freeze. Comparisons of the regional allocations can I draw the attention of honourable be made only between the two sets of Budget members to the fact that, on Monday papers, so we cannot tell at this stage where morning, the Minister was greeted on his way the effects of the coalition freeze fell. Of into Cabinet by protesters bearing placards course, it does not want us to know where saying, "Connor—the Minister for Doing they fell; it wants that covered up. Therefore, Nothing". How right those protesters were. For we cannot specifically document which regions the last seven months the Minister has may have real or fake increases. We must be presided over $406m worth of nothing. And provided with actual expenditure on a regional then he has the unmitigated gall—the basis for 1995-96 to clearly see where the shamelessness—to claim huge increases. In double counting has occurred. I challenge the one respect he is right. Any kind of capital Minister to provide the actual capital outlay works activity out of his Government would be expenditure for Public Works for 1995-96 a huge percentage increase. broken down on a regional basis. What has the Treasurer had to say about Mr Connor: I already have. It has capital outlay allocations? The member for already gone out. Caloundra spoke of this as a one-off rise when Ms BLIGH: Where? she raised it in her Budget Speech. What then can we expect capital works outlays to return Mr Connor: I sent it out to all the media. to? If this is a one-off rise, will they return to Ms BLIGH: I challenge the Minister to the $3.2 billion of the coalition freeze? Will we table it in this House in the Budget papers. never again see in this State the level of Mr Connor: It has already gone. building activity under the base that was allocated by a Labor Government? Ms BLIGH: I am sorry, but it is not on a regional basis. It is not there. The Minister Dr Watson: You never spent what you does not know what he has tabled. I am telling proposed in the Budget—not one of six years. him that it is not there. The effects of the Ms BLIGH: I remind the member that freeze are clear enough. the lapsed appropriation for 1994-95 was Mr Connor: I sent it out. It was in the $62m. The lapsed appropriation for 1995-96 packages. under this Government is $343m—a staggering difference of $280m. I ask the Ms BLIGH: We have already had a member to explain it. serious case of the Premier not knowing what he tabled. I suggest that the Minister not fall Dr Watson: Not in one year—'90, '91, into the same trap. '92, '93, '94—did you spend it. The effects of the freeze are clear Ms BLIGH: Nobody ever does. That is enough—a deflationary impact across all why there is a column for lapsed appropriation. industries and regions. The August I am talking about extent. unemployment figures indicate an It is curious to note that Mrs Sheldon unacceptable rise in the jobless rate. asserts in her Budget Speech that these Queensland's figure has risen from 9 per cent alleged increases in capital works are to be to 9.8 per cent, to become the highest in funded from QIFF balances and asset sales. mainland Australia, compared with a national Not only does she fail to outline in any detail average of 8.5 per cent rising to 8.8 per cent. I which assets she intends to sell, but she notice that the Minister for Employment is completely avoids any mention of the funds laughing about that. It is no laughing matter. that were grabbed through her freeze—a He ought to be ashamed of himself. deceitful and dishonest omission. There are Mr Santoro: Training and Industrial many questions left unanswered by the Relations. Get it right. 2976 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

Ms BLIGH: The Minister has no Mr CONNOR: I rise to a point of order. I responsibility for employment creation in this congratulate the member on reading her State. He ought to be ashamed of himself. speech better than Peter Beattie read his As I noted earlier, the Treasurer's Annual speech. Statement actually tries to blame some Mr J. N. GOSS (Aspley) (8.31 p.m.): departmental agencies for failing to spend Trust me to have to follow either the most their 1995-96 capital works allocations. This is humorous or the most incompetent—we are an outrageous slur on those departments that not sure which—speech so far. Almost every were forced by the freeze to cease projects. Opposition member who has spoken in this However, if the Treasurer or the Minister debate has said that the Government has cut believes it to be true, how can they have any hundreds of millions of dollars out of the confidence that these very same departments Capital Works Program. They have rattled off will ever be able to effectively plan and numerous projects in their electorates. When execute the projects to be delivered under this one adds up the value, the uncompleted year's alleged increases? The capital works projects total hundreds of millions of dollars— allocations in this Budget are clearly an $500m—in Labor electorates alone. No attempt to rectify the grave damage done by wonder the former Government was getting the Treasurer's freeze. into trouble. Mr Woolmer interjected. Ms Bligh interjected. Ms BLIGH: It is coming. I ask the Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Laming): member to hang on. Order! The member for South Brisbane must be seated in her correct seat to make an If it is capable of rectifying the grave interjection. damage that has been done, that is to be Mr J. N. GOSS: It was the beginning of applauded. The package is called an a typical Labor Government's third-term Infrastructure Rejuvenation Package. How spending spree. We have seen the debacle of telling. That is clearly an admission that the unfunded capital works promises in the rejuvenation is necessary, that something Health sector, where the current Opposition went terribly wrong at the beginning of this Leader had made wonderful promises with no Government's term in office. However, serious money to back them up. We have seen the question marks hang over this Government's state of the Workers Compensation Fund and ability to deliver any of the programs outlined. I the compulsory third-party insurance scheme. welcome the size of the overall allocation and That was typical of Labor Governments. look forward to seeing it being spent. But I am left puzzled that such an ambitious program is However, when the Government imposes left in the hands of the member for Nerang. a levy of $3 on tyres, what happens? Apparently we are going to break everybody in How can industry or the people of the State. For an average motorist, over two Queensland have any confidence that the years—and tyres will last two years—that Minister for Public Works and Housing—the should add up to about $24. As for oil, over a Minister who has so far excelled only at year it would be $1.60. If members opposite making sure that nothing happens—can are saying that the cost of the oil levy will have deliver any of the ambitious programs outlined a serious effect on families, perhaps some in these Budget papers? It is a huge cars need mechanical inspections because, if undertaking. The Minister's early attempts to they are consuming that much oil, they should distort the figures leave me with very serious not be on the road. doubts. Tonight I wish to raise an issue that I Members should make no mistake: the believe contributes to great hardship for small capital works outlays have been fudged and businesses in the retail area, that is, the the alleged increases do not even restore proliferation of shopping centres. Over recent what was stolen by the Treasurer and her years, we have seen local governments Minister over the past seven months. When it approve one shopping centre after another— comes to major capital works projects and the not just local shopping centres but also large jobs and growth that come with them, the community and regional shopping centres. people of this State have been robbed by The existing, struggling shopping centres are Borbidge, conned by Connor and are still shell- still under attack from new shopping centres shocked by Sheldon. This is the fudge-it being proposed almost weekly around south- Budget. It is indeed a Budget of deceit, and east Queensland. Queensland has become the Minister for Public Works and Housing the shopping centre of Australia. Planners stands condemned for his disgraceful part in it. from interstate are amazed at our lack of 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2977 serious planning when it comes to shopping On numerous occasions, we have seen small centres. In fact, a planner from the southern businesses struggling. Currently proposals are States has said that there will soon be one being put forward to build a number of shop for every house in the south-east corner shopping centres across the north side. One of Queensland. People who have been proposal is for McDowall, which is already successful in business for many years have surrounded by Flockton Village, Rode been wiped out, all because the council has Shopping Centre, Brookside and shopping allowed another shopping centre, maybe a bit centres at Everton Park, Albany Creek, larger, to be built down the road. Chermside, the Hypermarket, and smaller The economic impact statement that has shopping centres. Now two new shopping to be supplied by the developer of a shopping centres are proposed on Old Northern Road. centre is an absolute joke. We can all go The Brisbane City Council is spending the around south-east Queensland and see ratepayers' money trying to upgrade the dozens and dozens of shopping centres that Stafford Shopping Centre to attract people are not a going concern, and yet they have back to the old strip shopping centre. At economic impact statements saying that they Moorooka, it is doing the same. For the are viable. A recent show on TV showed a upgrade of those two shopping centres, the large number of shopping centres, all in the ratepayers will fork out $1.1m. vicinity of one another, that were half The Queensland Small Business Council tenanted. That was an absolute crying shame must meet soon. I have asked the Minister for for those people who had gone into business Tourism, Small Business and Industry to in good faith and had lost their homes. The request that that council investigate urgently developers of shopping centres can obtain a the proliferation of shopping centres, statement saying that a shopping centre is particularly on the north side, and its effect on economically viable because they pay for the small business. I call on the Government to statement. They can obtain even two or three place a two or three-month moratorium on statements because they go to a consultant shopping centre approvals until the and, because they are paying that consultant, Queensland Small Business Council has time the consultant will give them what they want. to review and report on the problem of new Some of them produce two or three shopping centres. statements, which enables the shopping I turn now to the Health budget. A major centre to go ahead. election commitment, if not the major I believe that to stop the farce of commitment, of the coalition Government was obtaining economic impact statements the to get our public hospitals right. I am proud to Department of Local Government and say that the Prince Charles Hospital staff have Planning should have a list of reputable already made a major contribution to this companies that can make an unbiased and through the Minister's Surgery on Time fair assessment of a shopping centre's Program. I congratulate the staff at the Prince viability. The developer of a shopping centre Charles Hospital. Under that program, the would have to apply to the Government to waiting time for surgery has been reduced to have the economic impact statement nil. For that the staff of Prince Charles have produced by a company from the worked hard and they certainly have my Government's list. That company would be support. That shows what can be done with chosen at random so that the developer would extra resources, and extra resources keep not know who would be conducting that coming. To meet the commitment, the assessment. The list would be held by the coalition has increased funding for Government. The developer would then pay Queensland's public hospitals by almost 16 the Government a fee for the study, which per cent, from $1.768 billion to over $2 billion would probably be levied based on a rate per in 1996-97. That will provide for 700 new square metre of the shopping centre. The positions across the Queensland public economic impact assessment would be hospital system, including 540 new nurses and received by the Government, and the 80 doctors. consultant would be paid directly by the In the past, I was honoured to be a board Government. No direct contact would occur member of the Prince Charles Hospital. The between the developer and the consultant. I 1996-97 Budget has seen an allocation of believe that that is the only honest way that $1.6m towards construction of a new ward we can obtain accurate economic impact block and extensions to theatres and statements. refurbishment of existing areas. The mental If small businesses are to survive in this health area at the Winston Noble Unit at the State, we must take that action immediately. Prince Charles Hospital will receive further 2978 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 funding towards the development of a new 60- The other big winner in this Budget is bed ward. Under the residential care Vote for indigenous housing, which is receiving $50.3m the Prince Charles Hospital, $1m has been in direct funding. In addition, $10m of the allocated towards the $6.5m redevelopment of community housing funds have been the Jacaranda Village. earmarked for programs that help indigenous The increase in funding will provide local people. That is a $60m commitment to jobs and I am very pleased that, on a number Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander housing of occasions, the Minister has seen fit to visit compared with Labor's commitment last year that hospital. He appreciates the problems of $35.3m. that Labor created for that hospital. While I am My own area on the north side of on the subject, it would be of interest to Brisbane has done well out of this Budget, people of my electorate to know that the Royal particularly in regard to housing. The Budget Brisbane Hospital has been given a boost of has earmarked $5.2m for the construction of $6.5m and the Royal Children's Hospital—a new public housing projects on Brisbane's very, very important hospital—has been given north side. An additional $1.4m has been set a boost of $2.4m. While I am also on the aside to purchase existing dwellings for public subject of the Royal Brisbane Hospital—last housing stock. Among the suburbs that will Wednesday the Leader of the Opposition benefit the most is Chermside, which will made the incredible statement that, by now, receive an extra 19 units of accommodation; tenders for the Royal Brisbane Hospital would Boondall, which will receive 13 units of have been let were he still the Minister for accommodation; and Wavell Heights, which Health. Look who is talking. I am surprised that will receive eight units of accommodation. That the Leader of the Opposition is prepared to lift expenditure will greatly assist those people in his head on these issues. When he was those areas who are waiting for public Minister for Health, all he did was run the housing. The Budget has provided $1.36m for Capital Works Program into a huge debt. the upgrading of existing public housing stock Certainly, he needs to be reminded that he on the north side of Brisbane. I am pleased to removed $34m from the already say that almost $112,000 has been provided overcommitted fund to bail out his out-of- to help address the indigenous housing needs control hospital budgets. within the area. I wish to make the House aware of the We inherited from Labor a public housing significant benefits that the State Budget has system under which waiting lists had grown delivered to public housing. Tonight, we have significantly but little had been done to heard some criticism of the Minister for Public address the problems. I had people out there Works and Housing. However, those claims in my electorate in absolute dire straits and are certainly not true. It is a fact that there was no way that they could get help. I Opposition members cannot really understand am pleased to see that this Budget is now the Budget. We understand that it takes new making a reasonable contribution towards members a few years to understand the getting those people into housing. That Budget. We accept that. Despite Opposition funding is needed desperately. In fact, one scaremongering, in relation to public housing chap, who was in a wheelchair, was waiting for the north side of Brisbane has done quite well. housing. Because there was no wheelchair- The reality is that the Budget delivers accessible housing available at the time, he significant benefits to those people who are had to live underneath a house on a bit of waiting to get into public housing and those carpet that was thrown on the ground. That is people who are tenants already. This Budget why earlier this year this Government will deliver 2,272 houses to the public housing introduced its Spot Purchase Program to rental stock, and that is 566 more than last address immediately housing needs as well as year. the long waiting lists. Community housing in particular is a big I congratulate the Minister for Education winner. It will receive over $110m. The money on his Capital Works Program. An is made available to community groups and approximate total of $518,000 will be spent on local governments for specific housing school buildings in 1996-97. The Aspley East projects. To ensure that those extra funds are State School will receive an upgrade of distributed to the people who really need $100,000 and the Aspley State High School them, the State Government has created the will receive an amenities block to replace one Community Housing Grants Board. That board which was demolished owing to the cracking will act independently to ensure funding for and subsidence of the existing building. That community housing projects is above politics is another $90,000. An amount of $80,000 and above reproach. has been allocated to the Bald Hills State 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2979

School for the upgrading of that school. at worst, vague, broad and probably a little bit Discussions are continuing on the deceitful. development of a new oval in that area. As the member for Kurwongbah said Following the disastrous spending spree yesterday, Queenslanders have a right to of Labor and the uncertainty it created, it has know all the details, particularly the hidden- not been made easy for the coalition to take away facts in these Budget papers. During the Government. However, I can tell members that Estimates hearings, the people will get to the people accept that this Budget is a good know about them. Although recently a lot of Budget. It has fulfilled many of the requests of information has been released through the the community and it has addressed the media—be that factual or not; we do not concerns of the community. I congratulate the know—perhaps the Minister could be Treasurer on presenting such a fine Budget. convinced to produce some more user Mrs BIRD (Whitsunday) (8.47 p.m.): I friendly, more free-flowing information which used to sit opposite and listen to those people can understand. If it is intended to members talking about how great they would gloss over the facts, be sure—— be, if they were in Government, as Mr Davidson: Just ask us. entrepreneurs and promoters and how great Mrs BIRD: No, that would be a waste of that would be for the tourist industry. I thought time. If it is intended to gloss over the facts, be to myself, "I wonder if they will do a better job sure that sooner or later, probably through the than we have." Since the coalition has come Estimates committees, the facts will come out. to Government, I have sat back and watched what has occurred. It seems to me that—— The disappointment is that when this Government came to power, Mr Borbidge Mr Santoro: You're obviously made a commitment to lead a Government for impressed. all Queensland. He has not delivered on that Mrs BIRD: Perhaps the member for promise. In fact, he boasts that, in only seven Clayfield should pop outside and have two or months of his Government, he has promised three black coffees and a cold shower. Then spending of $2,000m for the Gold Coast he might be able to pay more attention. where he lives and, of course, the member for Caloundra has done the same. The Premier During the election campaign, a lot of then fuels the fire by saying, "It is only right commitments and a lot of promises were made. Many of the tourism entrepreneurs, that the Gold Coast receives this level of particularly those in the Whitsunday region, funding because of the city's importance to looked at what they were being offered by the the State." Clearly, he believes the rest of the coalition and thought that they had an State does not matter. Of course the Gold opportunity to gain a little more. Instead, they Coast is significant, but so is the remainder of have had a great deal of disappointment, the State. The Minister for Tourism had better particularly over the past four months, during have a talk to him and tell him about the which they have had delays, sackings and outback, far-north Queensland, the there have been no promotions. Indeed, they Whitsundays and Hervey Bay. The rest of are starting to worry. Queensland knows that the Premier does not care. Perhaps that is why the Minister broke Mr Santoro: That's not what they tell us, his election promise to increase funding to the though. regional tourism authorities by $70,000. There Mrs BIRD: Perhaps the Minister needs is a shortfall there—a broken promise. half a dozen cups of coffee. Mr DAVIDSON: I rise to a point of Ms Bligh: Perhaps intravenously. order. The coalition's policy for the increase in funding to RTAs before the last election was Mrs BIRD: Yes, black coffee $65,000 and we delivered $65,000. intravenously. In recent days, tourism entrepreneurs have been further disturbed. Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Laming): This Budget was the greatest disappointment There is no point of order. for them. There is not a lot to say about the Mrs BIRD: On top of that, coastal Budget because it was nothing, nothing, tourism will suffer severely because of the nothing. There was nothing in it but impost of a $3 entry fee to national parks and disappointment for anybody within the tourist the Federal Government's reef tax of $6. The industry. It was disappointing not only for its Leader of the Opposition has pointed out what lack of initiative and its lack of incentive but the cost will be for an ordinary family wishing to also for its lack of detail. Whether by accident have what was once an affordable holiday or or design, at best the papers are curious and wishing to go camping on an island. That 2980 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 family will miss out because they simply will not islands of the Great Barrier Reef. The situation be able to afford it, nor will the many school is worse for farmers and the sugar industry will children whose school camping weekends are suffer greatly. The Treasurer obviously does often to the islands in the Whitsundays. not recognise the sugar industry as an Explain to them that the cost is too high exemption from her tyre tax. It is important for because of the Premier's obsession with his the Treasurer to understand that farm vehicles own electorate and the Treasurer's obsession used in the sugar industry are mostly with her tollway. There is no doubt that the registered vehicles. Tractors used for bin haul- reef tax will affect my electorate, but it is outs travel on roads and pay heavy complicated further by the national park registration fees. The same applies with oil. impost and, of course, the camping fees. Earlier this year I collected several The Whitsunday Charter Boat Industry thousand petitions from my electorate, which Association has called a crisis meeting for were tabled by the Leader of the Opposition, Thursday night. I extend an invitation to the to oppose increases in car registration. The Minister for Tourism, the Treasurer and the Treasurer did not listen to those hundreds of Minister for Environment to attend that people from my electorate and other meeting at seven o'clock on Thursday, 19 electorates throughout this State. She September, at the conference room at imposed a hike in car registration—a further Whitsunday Wanderer's Resort, Airlie Beach. impost on single and disadvantaged families, Members of the public are urged to come on average families and on farming along and present a united front to fight both communities where more than one on-road the reef tax and the national park tax. vehicle is necessary. Whilst the Opposition supports the I was disappointed that after the debate increase in funding to the Queensland Events over the papaya fruit fly and the Corporation, I find it a bit of a curiosity, given condemnation by Government members when that the corporation has no CEO and no 2IC. in Opposition over what they saw as The Minister has gutted the board and senior insufficient funding, the Government did not managers have resigned. The Goss increase funding to this program. Given the Government's initiative, the Queensland Federal Government's cuts in AQIS—— Events Corporation, was a positive, Mr Rowell: You've got to be joking! You promotional facility for Queensland events. are away with the pixies! However, the Minister needs to decide what he is going to do with the corporation. The Mrs BIRD: It is exactly the same industry wants to know whether he is going to funding. amalgamate it with the QTTC, get rid of it or Mr Rowell: What about the $600,000 leave it as it is. Rumours abound. If the that was provided by Treasury for the Premier is going to leave the QEC as it is, he inspection over the next three months? urgently needs a good, permanent chairman Mrs BIRD: That is exactly the same. and a good board. The QEC has a large role Given the Federal Government's cuts to AQIS, to play in the bid for the 2006 Commonwealth the north of the State is in a very vulnerable Games. position from infestation. In addition, the As an aside, at this time, with the Olympic Federal Government Budget decision to and Commonwealth Games on the agenda, I remove the option for cooperatives— find it difficult to comprehend why there is a particularly in the sugar industry—to claim tax drop in funding for the Major Sporting Facilities relief on principal repayments in certain capital Program from $20m to $7m. Regions are borrowings would mean an extra cost of expressing concern about the delays in $3.6m for every $10m outlaid. Millions of updated promotional activities. It is understood dollars which would have remained in my that the new promotions will commence early region will now go to Canberra. The money in 1997. However, operators deserve an previously distributed to shareholders or explanation, and it is suggested that the retained for future expansion will be lost from message to the industry might be warranted. I my region. The State and Federal coalitions hope that the Minister is forthcoming in that have certainly deserted the sugar and respect. horticultural industries. There was no joy in the Budget for the Worst of all, on her own admission the people of Whitsunday. Hard hit, of course, are Treasurer has done nothing towards reducing the ordinary mums and dads—the average unemployment. In fact, the long-term family that owns a car; a family that spends unemployed now have fewer opportunities for school holidays fishing and camping on the training and employment because of the 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2981

$8.2m cut in program funding, in addition to some buildings have been knocked down in the $200,000 lost due to Federal Government Brisbane and we are about to see our railway cuts. station in Bowen knocked down. It is a Mr Santoro: Your heart's really in this, heritage station and we believe that it should isn't it? be restored and kept for future generations. In addition, I want to congratulate the teachers Mrs BIRD: How many coffees has the and the cleaners at the schools who have Minister had? worked hard over the past few weeks for their By passing the responsibility to private area rebate incentives. I hope that the Minister sectors, Mrs Sheldon has played Pontius sticks to his decision not to sack the cleaners Pilate with the lives of the young, long-term and bring in contract cleaners. unemployed. Already the unemployed have Mr PALASZCZUK (Inala) (9 p.m.): One lost much-needed employment because of of the most important commodities which is the Sheldon freeze and now the Budget indispensable for life and for the progress of papers show that another $400m has gone. A society is water. Its management, or lack 35 per cent increase in bank debits means thereof, will become one of the great issues that more of a burden is placed on the people confronting us in the twenty-first century. who can afford to withdraw only small amounts Overseas, water has become one of the main as opposed to those who can afford regular, issues confronting society today. Where water large withdrawals. Battlers will be worse off, is not in short supply, pollution, waste and especially those who smoke. other management shortcomings are Most of my constituents are disappointed common. at the loss of two police stations and the If we look at Europe, we can see that watch-house—a commitment of the Labor Government. I remind the Government that many multinational companies have taken Proserpine and Cannonvale Police Stations control of the provision of water. Actually, they were grossly neglected under the Bjelke- have spread their tentacles over to America as Petersen Government. Proserpine had one well. Seven of the top 20 companies in the manual typewriter and in tropical Queensland American water distribution market are the station had no airconditioning, only two European owned. In South Australia, with the fans. The most distasteful aspect of the privatisation of Adelaide City's water supply, Proserpine station was that female officers multinational companies based in France and had no toilets. Female officers were forced to England gained the ownership of that water pass urinals on their way to the toilets and had supply. The South Australian Government has to cough very loudly on the way out. The admitted that foreign multinationals now have people of Proserpine will not tolerate being a monopoly on its private water market. Some ignored by the coalition Government again. 1,500 people have lost their jobs as a result of Whitsunday is a fast-growing area with a large South Australia's water policy. In the next year, itinerant population. another 700 people will also lose their jobs. I wonder if the Minister for Police is aware In Queensland, the Minister for Natural that recent rosters show the station without an Resources is planning to go down exactly the officer for two hours every second Friday, with same path as South Australia, namely, the only one administrative staff member in the privatisation of our water supply. Because of office. Whitsunday is pleased that the the decentralised nature of Queensland, it is Government has endorsed the previous my contention that with privatisation user pays Government's refurbishment of the Proserpine will become the operative term, with remote Hospital by proceeding with the foreshadowed area residents and families paying much more capital works. The previous Government, for that basic commodity than they do now. through the Mackay Regional Health Authority, The Minister for Natural Resources must should be congratulated for its tremendous guarantee that remote communities will not be work in the ordered and subsequent hit hardest by privatisation, that no jobs will be negotiations, design and planning of the lost and that water quality will be maintained. hospital. The staff, and especially the medical The Minister for Natural Resources also must supervisor, Evan Ackermann, have worked guarantee that, if he intends to go down this under difficult circumstances for some time path, Queensland's water supply must remain while the plans and audits were being done. in the hands of Queensland companies. They deserve congratulations for their There are many nations with private water patience. suppliers which simply do not measure up to I had hoped that the Minister for our standards. I believe that, once the profit Transport would be in the House. Recently motive becomes the major influence on the 2982 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 water supply, quality will ultimately suffer. With before June 1997. This is the data from which future corporate belt tightening, quality again the new tree-clearing policies and guidelines will be the first to suffer. The Minister knows are going to be devised. It is anybody's guess how unpopular privatisation will be and has when we will see the controls in place. One tried to pass it off as commercialisation. The would not have to be an Einstein to work out Minister is attempting to pass the move off as what will happen in the meantime. Bulldozers commercialisation despite his claims that water will be working overtime. More of our virgin rights will be sold and private firms will be scrub from one end of the State to the other permitted to build, own and operate water will end up lying horizontal courtesy of a pulling infrastructure. chain. The only hope we have will be in those Since the announcement of the Minister's areas that are still drought-stricken, with the Water Infrastructure Task Force, whose property owners unable to afford to contract members I believe are doing a good job, scrub clearers. much has been boasted by the Minister of If Labor were still in Government, these new projects being promoted. In the Budget, urgently needed controls would be in place. $1 billion has been set aside for the provision Landowners would know exactly where they of infrastructure for water resources over the stood, what they could and could not clear next 15 years. It is my contention that this and in what configuration. For the first time in scheme is a continuation of the previous the State, we would see grazing, agriculture Government's $600m water infrastructure and nature co-existing side by side, rather package. The principal items comprised a than the scorched-earth policy Government Fitzroy Basin strategy, which included major members made an art form in the sixties, dams on the Dawson and Comet Rivers, a seventies and eighties and which it is pipeline from the Eungella Dam to the Bowen obviously hell-bent continuing with in the Basin coalfields, and the raising of the Bedford nineties. While the rest of Australia is madly and Bingegan Weirs. Other projects included replanting the overcleared, degraded lands of an off-stream storage at St George, new work southern Australia, this Government is hell- in the upper and central Burnett, a water bent on repeating past mistakes. History will supply scheme on the Granite Belt and a record this Government as having committed pipeline in north-west Queensland from the a wide range of sins but, without doubt, the Julius Dam to serve the Ernest Henry mine travesty that is the devastation of western and others. Queensland rangelands will stand out as a I intend to make a much longer shining beacon of political poverty, petty contribution in this House at a later time in parochialism and environmental madness. response to the ministerial statements made At this point, I wish to raise an issue which by the Minister for Natural Resources over the I consider to be of grave concern to our past four weeks. However, it is probably in the communities unless it is met front on by a all-important area of broadscale tree clearing whole-of-Government approach. Honourable that the natural resources budget fails the members opposite would have heard of late of people of Queensland, both rural and city home invasions whereby thieves enter the people alike. With the exception of the homes of innocent people and attack them Government opposite and a few of its redneck until they hand over money or possessions. friends, it is now widely accepted that our past Many of these victims are elderly and cannot rate of tree clearing, particularly of our western defend themselves. In other cases, victims leasehold lands, was totally unsustainable and have their purses snatched and are knocked that the policy is in need of immediate redress. to the ground and savagely beaten even Labor in Government had done just that. A when walking home from church on a Sunday. Statewide tree-clearing policy has been All honourable members would be aware of extensively consulted on and a preliminary these incidents, as they see them almost tree-clearing policy put in place with every night on the television news. widespread agreement from producers right The question that begs for an answer is through to the environmentalists. why criminals have become so brazen. Many However, could this Government accept robberies are committed by youths, some as that? No way. It went out of its way to discredit young as six years old, while others are the policy, pull it apart, go back to scratch and committed by well-organised criminals. It is my start all over again on some flimsy premise of considered opinion that many of these crimes its science being better than ours. This Budget could be prevented if the right signals were continues this dilly-dallying approach. We are sent out into the community. However, the not going to see the collection of so-called wrong signals have been sent out into the baseline data on Statewide tree clearing community by politicians in this State. As an 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2983 example, over the past two years, we heard such a degree that primary schools have nothing other than the former Opposition become a greater risk. I understand that the talking tough on crime and highlighting the Minister's promise is now down to five police issue of crime. The now Police Minister and officers throughout Queensland. Five is not the now Attorney-General waxed lyrical almost enough just for the schools in my electorate. nightly on the evening news about what they It is with great reluctance that I have were going to do when they achieved raised this issue in the House tonight, because Government. They talked tough. Now they are I do not want to see my electorate portrayed in in Government, no action is being taken. a bad light in the media. However, as this Absolutely nothing has changed. The thieves situation is so critical, I implore the and the would-be thieves have now received Government to do something. I believe that the signal that tough talk means nothing at all, the Minister for Police, the Minister for because they are still not being apprehended. Families, the Minister for Education and the So they continue their criminal activities and Attorney-General should convene an become even more brazen because they extraordinary meeting with the Inala school know they can get away with it. community as a matter of urgency to tackle That leads me to introduce to honourable the immediate crisis before someone is badly members the latest crime becoming more injured. "School invasions" is an emotive term, prevalent in my electorate, and I presume in but to teachers who are not used to coping other electorates, and that is the crime of with intruders, it is the only term they can use. school invasions. Most of the Inala schools Mr Grice: Mr Palaszczuk—— have been subjected to a school invasion. What happens is that, at any time during Mr PALASZCZUK: I would take school hours, gangs of juveniles, some as interjections from the honourable member for young as six years old, enter the school Broadwater, but unfortunately I have so much grounds and disrupt the school routine. to deal with this evening that I do not think I will be able to respond to him. I have two more Examples of school invasions include the issues that I want to raise. They are of grave following: juveniles invading the parade of a importance to the area of natural resources primary school and throwing stones at and to my electorate. teachers, students and parents, using obscenities and then claiming that no-one can All honourable members would have touch them. When asked to leave, they refuse heard me talk at length in this House about or move along to vacant classrooms and the problems being confronted by the cattle proceed to smash windows. When the producers of Windorah with the proposal to hardworking police arrive, they of course can bring in cotton growing at a property called do nothing because their hands are tied. Currareva. Other examples are waves of juveniles Mr Santoro: When did you last speak smashing the windows of teachers' cars, about this? throwing stones through classrooms, attacking Mr PALASZCZUK: The Honourable the students, robbing teachers' belongings and Minister is absent from this House so often even burning toilet rolls. At least one school that he is unable to hear the proceedings of has considered hiring security guards to patrol the House. If he attended this Chamber more the school grounds to protect teachers, cars, often, he might know what is going on. belongings and school property. Where is all this going to end? Teachers are terrified to go Mr Veivers interjected. to work. Stress leave and sick leave is on the Mr PALASZCZUK: As for the increase, and in the long run it is the Honourable the Minister for Sport—I had education of the innocent young children at better be nice to him, because I think there those schools that suffers. are some goodies in the Budget for one of my Three weeks ago, the principals of the high schools, so I will leave him go. area held a crisis meeting to attempt to devise Government members interjected. a strategy to overcome this problem. The Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Laming): police are willing to assist, but their resources Order! The member for Redlands! are already stretched to the limit in patrolling the district, and long response times to calls Mr PALASZCZUK: Mr Deputy Speaker, mean that they are sometimes of no I thank you for your protection. assistance. During the election campaign, the I believe that we should congratulate the Minister for Police promised a police officer for cattle producers who live around the Windorah every high school. But in my area, the area—which, of course, is along the Cooper situation of school invasions has escalated to Creek area—on being able to convene one of 2984 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 the most important events to occur in western Mr PALASZCZUK: I am trying to be Queensland this century. I refer to a meeting nice to the Honourable the Minister for Sport of scientists from all over Australia to discuss because he has some goodies in the Budget the problems in relation to the proposal to for my electorate. The letter continues— grow cotton in the Windorah area. For the "¥ the Channel Country is an area of record, I intend to read to the House an open naturally very high wind erosion letter to the Minister for Natural Resources, the activity. The cultivation of soils and Honourable Howard Hobbs, from the cattle removal of natural vegetation in the producers of Windorah—members of his own Cooper will greatly accelerate wind electorate. It states— erosion rates "Based on the outcomes of the ¥ pesticide transport in dust picked up Workshop, we recommend that the by dust storms and mechanical Queensland Government: means may contribute to pollution of (i) rejects the application by the Cooper Creek and other water bodies Currareva Partnership for the ¥ the aquatic and terrestrial ecology of proposed Currareva Agricultural the Cooper is intimately dependent Development . . . on its flow regime"— (ii) rejects all future applications for and the list of facts continues. In conclusion, intensive agriculture projects involving the letter states— cultivation and/or irrigation on the Lake Eyre Basin rivers in "On taking all of these issues into Queensland; account, we believe that implementation of the proposed irrigation project would (iii) legislates to improve the process of dealing with water allocation and involve unacceptable risks to the other natural resource management environment and to the established issues of this nature; and communities of the area. These views have received the full support of over 70 (iv) takes a lead role in the development additional participants at the Cooper of an interstate Lake Eyre Basin Creek workshop"— catchment management structure with appropriate resources and most of whom were cattle producers of the powers to ensure the long term area— protection of the ecological integrity "including representatives from the local of the Basin. and wider national community, These recommendations are made environmental groups, and other in recognition of the following facts:"— scientists." and it should be remembered that these are For the information of honourable members, I recommendations from 14 of the most have here a list of all the participating eminent scientists in Australia— scientists. Mr Deputy Speaker, I know that I have not done the right thing, but I seek "¥ the Cooper Creek is a highly approval to have this list of scientists tabled complex, highly productive and and incorporated in Hansard. environmentally sensitive system of great importance to the ecology of Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Has the the Lake Eyre Basin and to its member checked with the Speaker? people Mr PALASZCZUK: Mr Deputy Speaker, ¥ the Cooper system is also of national I have not checked, but as you can see, it is and international ecological just a list of eminent scientists. importance, and protection of the Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! Is system is essential . . ." leave granted? For the benefit of honourable members Mr Veivers: No. opposite, I point out that the Lake Eyre Basin Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Leave is occupies one-sixth of the land mass of granted. Australia, whereas the Murray-Darling Basin is a smaller basin. That puts into perspective for Mr PALASZCZUK: I accept that. Thank honourable members opposite the extent of you. the problem that we are facing here. Mr Veivers: No. I wasn't allowed to table Mr Veivers interjected. two documents by the former Speaker. 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2985

Mr PALASZCZUK: That will go all over Government done since it has been in power the Cooper when I get out there in two weeks' to address the problem? Nothing! It has time. merely made it worse. If it had been able to I turn now to the important area of the sack 6,500 school cleaners, the Bureau of Ethnic Affairs, which has been unemployment figure in December would have transferred to the Premier's portfolio. I want to been even higher. This Government has no quote from the Ministerial Program concern for the unemployed; it has no interest Statements for the Premier. The program goal in helping them with skills, development or is stated to be— training. This Government is following in the footsteps of its Federal colleagues, who in "To increase harmony, cohesion and their Budget scrapped funding for job training. participation in Queensland's culturally The Liberals and Nationals in Canberra do not diverse society—with particular focus on care about those without jobs, nor do their the needs and endeavours of ethnic colleagues in Queensland. If they did, they community members—for the benefit of would have as their first priority policies and all Queenslanders." programs to create jobs and provide training It is my hope that all members opposite take for those in our community who cannot get note of that statement. After an investigation work. When the Federal Labor Government of the program outlays and given that $2.76m was in power, training in labour market was spent on this area in 1995-96, I am at a programs was in place to help the loss to explain why only $2.552m has been unemployed, most especially the long-term set aside for the 1996-97 period. That unemployed. Indeed, under the Queensland represents a reduction of about $200,000. Yet Labor Government, training schemes and job in her Budget Speech the Treasurer claimed programs were expanded in an endeavour to that additional funds have been provided. I provide valuable training to those without jobs find this a little difficult to understand, but it is and to provide work for people through labour in keeping with similar statements by the market programs. Treasurer in other sections of her Budget This Government has failed every Speech. Queensland family because every At a time when ethnic communities are Queensland family is affected by facing increased pressures with racial attacks unemployment. With an increasing on certain sections of their communities, I unemployment rate, the Government should would have thought that the Treasurer would have continued with our Government's have increased rather than reduced the programs and expanded them rather than funding in this area. We on the Opposition abolish them. By abolishing them, this side support ethnic communities and the Government shows that it has no regard for Bureau of Ethnic Affairs in a bipartisan way. those in our community who are without work. However, our bipartisanship is sorely tested Liberal and National Party Governments have when we read in the Courier-Mail this morning an interesting approach to high the Director of the Bureau of Ethnic Affairs unemployment. They sack public servants and waxing lyrical in his praise of the Premier. Why increase unemployment. Indeed, instead of the director of a bureau whose funding has implementing strategies to help unemployed been cut would applaud his Premier's people find work and implementing programs commitment to multiculturalism escapes me. I to give them the required skills, they sack might just leave it at that. public servants and thereby make the problem Mr BRISKEY (Cleveland) (9.20 p.m.): worse. Queensland has the highest unemployment In the August Federal Budget, the figure of all the mainland States—9.8 per cent, National and Liberal Party Government threw up from 9 per cent. That is a full percentage another 3,200 people out of their jobs in the point higher than the national average. With a Department of Administrative Services. What 9.8 per cent unemployment rate in about their families? Liberal and National Party Queensland, this Government should be people simply do not care. As long as they ashamed of itself. follow their philosophical line of small Mr Mulherin interjected. government, people do not matter. The minority National/Liberal Government in Mr BRISKEY: Exactly. This Queensland is simply following the lead of its Government's freeze on Government Federal counterparts. Unemployment is spending, which it denied, has been a something in which it is not interested. To this contributing factor to this increase in Government, it is simply a word—a unemployment in Queensland. What has this percentage. The unemployed are real people, 2986 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 they have families, they have aspirations, and through State Government programs and who this Government's solution to their problems is have found work or gone on to other training to sack more public servants and to do away or study and I have spoken to the dedicated with important initiatives that Labor public servants who have helped them. They Governments have put in place to assist the are not mickey mouse training opportunities, unemployed, especially the long-term they are programs that are believed in by unemployed. those who run them and they give more to Liberal/National Party Governments are those programs than just their paid work time. Governments without soul. They are They put in a lot of unpaid time and effort Governments that do not see the plight of because they are trying to help others in our those without jobs; they simply do not care. In community, especially those who have never the light of high and increasing had a job and who feel that they have no unemployment, what does the Federal future. Liberal/National Party Government do? On top I thank the 150 public servants who have of the 3,200 public servants already going, worked so hard and who have now lost their another 10,500 will be sacked. Those 13,700 jobs because of this Government—a sacked Federal public servants and their Government without a soul. I can guarantee families fail to see how losing their jobs will those people that the Labor Opposition in this help the unemployment problem. I, too, fail to place appreciated their efforts. What they were see how increasing the number of endeavouring to achieve through the unemployed helps to solve the problem of programs and training schemes was high unemployment. Indeed, this Government worthwhile and it was appreciated by all those is following the Federal Government in who were helped. Their jobs may be gone, but endeavouring to solve the high unemployment they will be back as soon as this loony tunes problem by sacking more public servants. It Government is thrown out by the people of tried it with 6,500 school cleaners, but it was Queensland. This Government has no soul. It forced to back down. It is, however, getting rid does not care about those who are without of 150 public servants involved in programs to jobs. Instead of increasing the number of help the unemployed. training opportunities following the Federal That is good logic! Some bright spark in Government's cuts, it has slashed them the Minister's office says, "Unemployment in further. Queensland is 9.8 per cent, let's fix that by The Federal Government has decided to sacking 150 public servants and abolishing the cut $1.8 billion from training programs over the public sector Subsidies and Trainees Program, next four years. These cuts will mean that the Job Training and Placement Program and 200,000 people will miss out on assistance. the Youth Employment Service." What does The State Government was aware of this, but this Government do? It takes that advice and instead of helping some of these people by abolishes those programs and sacks those expanding the existing programs, what did it public servants. After all, it is only the do? It brought down a Budget that cuts unemployed who will suffer! That is the funding and sacks public servants so that a attitude of this Government. Unemployment is further 21,000 people will not receive not a problem that it wants to know about. It is assistance. That is a further 21,000 people someone else's problem. This Government is this Government does not care about. here to make the Public Service smaller. It is This is an uncaring Government that not here to worry about people or their futures. makes promises to the people of Queensland That is this Government's attitude regarding and then breaks those promises without any those who cannot find work. concern for honesty or integrity in What of the Minister for Training's Government. We saw evidence of this with the attitude. He said, "This Government does not school cleaners and the changes to workers' believe in creating mickey mouse training compensation, and now we see further opportunities." On Wednesday in this House, evidence of it in this Budget. Promises were Mr Santoro called those training schemes made regarding no new taxes, and those developed by professional Queensland public promises were simply ignored. This servants "mickey mouse training Government made a commitment to every opportunities". I am sure that those who put Queenslander; indeed it had a contract with their heart and soul into helping the Queenslanders. The Premier said, "We will not unemployed in this State to get on their feet attempt to buy Government with promises that and find work would have been delighted with ultimately prove empty. If we fail, then throw Mr Santoro's comments about their efforts. I us out. This is our contract with Queensland." have met people who have been helped Further, on 3 April this year, the Treasurer 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2987 made a promise when she said, "The Premier $397,000 to be allocated post 1995-96. There and I have made a firm commitment that is no allocation in this year's Budget for the there are no plans for new taxes in the Budget new Cleveland Police Station. I am extremely and we stand by that commitment." They are angry that the State Government has not saying to every Queenslander, "Trust us, we provided funding for the construction of a new won't deceive you", and they have let us all Cleveland Police Station. Our police officers in down. Cleveland work in a building which is in such a Mr Mulherin: "Trust us. We're from the dilapidated state that it should be demolished, Government." yet this minority Borbidge/Sheldon Government has failed to provide funding for a Mr BRISKEY: Exactly. new police station. The people of Cleveland, Every Queensland family will now have to the police officers and I are extremely pay more to live in Queensland—in some disappointed about this. The Labor cases, up to $787 a year more. That is not Government provided funds in the Budget last bad when the Government made a firm year to purchase land for the new station with commitment that no family would pay any new the understanding that additional funding tax or any increase in taxes and charges. would be provided for the construction of the What do those who live in my electorate within station this year. the Redland Shire get for the increases in Cleveland police should not have to taxes and charges forced on them? Not much continue to operate in a substandard working at all. Almost everything in the Budget for the environment. The Treasurer's slush fund, with Redland Shire was an initiative of the former more than $250m in it, is money that should Labor Government and was previously funded be used for the construction of a new police without the need to hit Redlands families with station. This slush fund—the Treasurer's new and increased taxes and charges. All that advance fund—had only $100m in it when this Government has done is reannounce Labor was in Government. Why does it now projects that were announced in last year's need $250m? This is not a Budget for Budget. Queenslanders. It is not a Budget for The Cleveland Court House is a prime Queensland families. It is a Budget full of example. That courthouse was announced in broken promises and will be remembered as last year's Budget papers. Budget Paper No. 3 such. announced that a new $4m courthouse would Mr CARROLL (Mansfield) (9.33 p.m.): be built in Cleveland. What do we get in this The State Budget is a thoroughly detailed Budget? The reannouncement of a project work plan that will achieve those objectives set that the Labor Government had announced last year for this National/Liberal coalition already—a courthouse that should already be Government by the people of Queensland. started. But this Government has been unable We carefully listened and reflected the needs to negotiate with the Redland Shire Council and wishes of the people in the policies on over the siting of the courthouse. Had our which we went to the polls on 15 July 1995. A Government still been in power, land would total of 54.6 per cent of Queenslanders said have been purchased and the building would that they wanted this Government to have started. Negotiations have stalled implement those policies. We went to the because of a lack of ability on behalf of this people with assurances that we wanted to Government to reach a negotiated solution. avoid new taxes and yet to offer a balanced The ambulance stations at Dunwich and Budget. I congratulate our Treasurer and her Cleveland which were announced in this team, who offer Queensland a Budget that is Budget once again were projects that were generous but well focused on needs and announced in last year's Labor Government careful stewardship. Budget. In fact, the Dunwich Ambulance I am pleased to support both Bills before Station is finished. Similarly, the $8m funding the House. I turn first to the budget for this for the Moreton Institute of TAFE bayside Parliament. The sum of $9m is allowed for the campus was another announcement of the Office of the Speaker, the Committees office, previous Labor Government. Moneys our excellent Parliamentary Library, the Table budgeted for the expansion of the Redland Office, Hansard, Education and Protocol Office Hospital were also announced previously, with as well as Attendants. In addition, expenditure work having begun on this project before the of $30m is recommended for the office of the change of Government. Clerk of the Parliament, Human Resource In last year's Budget, $100,000 was Management, Information Technology allocated for the construction of the new Services, Property Services, Catering, Security Cleveland Police Station, with the balance of and Administration at the Brisbane Parliament 2988 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

House complex, as well as electorate office pressure from the council, which led to council support services and the salaries and acquiring many hectares of their family estate. allowances due to elected members of this The land so acquired is not being properly Assembly. Spending in the 1996-97 cared for or protected for the purpose that parliamentary budget is therefore to increase council claimed it. 4.8 per cent above that of 1995-96. Staff These inconsistent attitudes by the numbers are to increase by only 6.85 FTE, or council to its koala park land grab must be 1.77 per cent. I want to congratulate all the resolved, but Lord Mayor Soorley's team staff. They are always courteous, discreet, refuse to negotiate. Instead, they are levying efficient and loyal. Those engaged in Brisbane ratepayers to indulge their covert gardening, security, maintenance and catering power play. That sort of two-faced behaviour at Parliament House and the Annexe deserve record has left a dark cloud over our State special commendation for their excellent work. Government Koala Coast Protection Plan Turning to the State Budget Appropriation couched in State Planning Policy 1/95 Bill—I want to highlight a couple of important gazetted in January. Members of the Koala allocations specific to the Mansfield electorate. Action Group at Thornlands have boasted of Funding of $850,000 goes to the Koala Coast exploiting koala phobia to secure funding for Protection Plan—a matter of some debate in experimental projects, such as koala counting. the eastern half of the electorate. It is different I would be interested to know how much from the Brisbane City Council Koala Park money is likely to go to that. Acquisition Program, which I have mentioned previously in this place, because it is closely There are some disturbing aspects of tied to that State plan. I have made strong claims by KAG and its guest speakers, who representations for constituents in the Burbank profess to know the full background of the area who want to conserve their property and Labor Government gazettal of SPP 1/95. are quite prepared to lock up their land as part Those speakers, including Councillor Helen of Brisbane's koala park in a way that not only Murray, who has focused attention on koalas lawfully binds the present owners but also in the Redland Shire Council, particularly in future owners and local governments. strategic planning, rezoning and dog issues, have been reported to me as crowing that not The owners of two particularly beautiful pieces of bush acreage have had a running only has the Government been misled into battle with the Brisbane City Council, which is paying millions of dollars for land that has no now insistent upon formally acquiring those koalas and will not sustain koalas but also into providing hefty grants to amateurish minority pieces of land. There is a serious problem, interest organisations that cash in on koala though. The landowners were told previously by council and State Government employees funding. I want to give clear notice to those that the subject land is wanted as an people and anyone who tries to deceive this ecotourism base, in other words, for its Government or the people of the Mansfield commercial value. There are other factors that electorate that they will be exposed as frauds. indicate that this land will be exploited for I am informed that Councillor Murray commercial reasons. The landowners affected quoted Jack Venman as having said, "Helen, understandably believe that this is an amoral don't come up here"—that is, the Venman land grab for one arm of the city council that reserve near Daisy Hill—"looking for koalas. has gone feral. Why would any sensible They're all at Thorneside." The truth is that the council forcibly acquire that land for a couple remaining trees providing best koala food are of million dollars when the landowners have in the better soil of the damper coastal and offered to sign the most advanced style of creek areas, not in the dry, stony hills. Those voluntary conservation agreement that would groups and some Government offices have not only permanently bind title to that land but endeavoured to hide soil surveys from those also commit Government to rezone or lock up who energetically oppose the Koala Coast that land? The latter exercise would truly Protection Plan. But the soil type information protect the land at very little expense to the makes interesting reading. It has led those public purse. objectors to believe that the State It is good enough for that council to boast Government was deceived into declaring a this month in its R & H News magazine about green belt under the guise of the KCPP. That having five VCAs over 33 hectares of makes me very angry and I want to know the bushland and having 50 other sites targeted truth. It makes a lot of those property owners for VCAs, but curiously the council needs to angry, too, when they know that what the own the Jenyns family estate at Burbank Labor Government told them is simply not outright. That family has already suffered true. 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2989

Limited resources applied to koala staff and the P & C now see enrolments conservation mean that only the right land will increasing. The QE II Hospital redevelopment be protected and cultivated as koala habitat. will see capital investment of $10m this year, Neither public money nor private resources with another $1m to follow over the next two should be tied up in the wrong land. We know years. that the koala is the popularly acceptable In the part of the Budget relating to flagship for animal conservation, but it will be justice, expenditure on the CJC is to be reined torpedoed if it is a decoy for green belt in a little. I draw attention of honourable preservation or eco-tourism that is not members to page 7 of the 1994-95 annual necessarily going to sit comfortably with the report summary of the Criminal Justice proclaimed intention of preserving the valuable Commission which boasts of the plan of the remaining wildlife, including wallabies, frogs CJC on behalf of the people of Queensland to and snakes, in that area. reduce public sector misconduct. In light of the At page 84 of Budget Paper No. 2, I see comments raised today by the member for $8m is allocated over the next three years for Broadwater about the conduct of the CJC, I native species protection to acquire land in the wonder who is guarding the guards. As Mr Koala Coast region of south-east Queensland Le Grand heads the Official Misconduct to conserve habitat for a range of native flora Division of the CJC, it is worth noting that that and fauna series. I notice from page 4 of division is the largest in the CJC comprising Budget Paper No. 3 that $10m will be spent approximately half of the commissions' over three years, beginning with a slug of $5m officers. He is the director responsible for this year, on native species protection and investigating allegations of misconduct against park infrastructure rejuvenation. Those hefty members of the Queensland Police Service allocations must be made on the basis of and investigates official misconduct against honest claims from those seeking to justify officers of other units of public administration. them. A major proportion of the $20m each year The koala action group that I have is expended on the Official Misconduct mentioned also looks forward, apparently, to Division. The irony of that situation is that, last Government grants to actually count koalas on year, the Federal Labor member for McEwen some blocks of land. That group intends to tipped a bucket in the Federal Parliament on calculate mathematically the number of koalas the most senior law enforcement official within on other lands. The Concerned Residents the Criminal Justice Commission, Mr Le Action Group, CRAG, have a note from a Grand, while that Federal member's Labor conservation officer indicating that there is no mate, Mr Goss, was in power in Queensland. conclusive evidence as to the concentration of What happened in response to that? koalas in those areas. Those two pieces of Absolutely nothing. The CJC was apparently evidence, I believe, show that the green allowed to investigate itself and, until today, blanket of the KCPP is hiding a lack of we were no closer to identifying the source of information and perhaps a secret plan. I have the Operation Wallah leaks. been given evidence that senior environmental officers have spelled out plans The issues raised by the member for for the Chandler/Burbank area to be a Broadwater are extremely serious and they lucrative eco-tourism centre, bigger and better demand an immediate response. I want to than Fleay's Wildlife Park and Currumbin know, in light of this new evidence, why the Sanctuary rolled into one. I know that this CJC was allowed to investigate itself in the first Government has already commended eco- place. It is interesting to look back at the tourism in more remote locations. Our Minister possible risk of that, which was foreshadowed for Environment is in the process of reviewing in a comment by the previous Clerk of this the Koala Coast Protection Plan, which has State Parliament, Mr Alan Woodward, in about admirable objectives but lots of hooks. I am 1989. He is said to have mentioned that confident that he will take these new parliamentary sovereignty would be lost and revelations into account so that my House powers handed to a non-elected body constituents have a truthful explanation of any to be monitored by a parliamentary necessary conservation measures. committee. There are lots of good news items in this The evidence before the member for back to basics Budget which I commend to Broadwater clearly suggests a massive cover- the House. I refer to items such as $410,000 up of monumental proportions. There is for master plan and administration upgrade— nothing more destructive in the fight against new block—at Mount Petrie State Primary crime in this State than to have our law where the hardworking principal Kerry Dere, his enforcement officials and their agencies under 2990 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 a cloud of suspicion for corrupt activities. As doctors' offices on the top floor so that the the member for Broadwater said earlier today, breast screening clinic can be completed on it is the taxpayers who are funding the CJC. the ground floor, for the fit-out of two We are spending more than $20m a year to additional theatres, the upgrade of facilities to keep that agency afloat, not to mention the accommodate enhanced rehabilitation legal costs of those appearing before it. services as well as surgical needs and the The public deserves to be assured that provision of enhanced accident and their law enforcement officials adhere to an emergency services. I hope the days will be appropriate standard of integrity and gone forever when ambulances are told to accountability, and anything less is simply bypass that very strategically located and unacceptable. I fully support the need for an important hospital. inquiry into the Criminal Justice Commission in The upgrade of the Challinor Centre for regard to this matter. I believe that the issues intellectually disabled people is a particularly raised in this Parliament today warrant an pleasing announcement. I note that new immediate and urgent investigation. This initiatives in funding for the upgrade of the Parliament is the ultimate controller of the Basil Stafford centre for intellectually disabled CJC. If an honest complainant appears to has also been announced. have good cause for sidestepping the In the past, the State's land titling system intermediaries, then this Parliament should has been a problem. It is pleasing to see that hear the gist of that allegation. that system will be further upgraded to allow it This informant claims to have been told to cope with increased occupant registration in by the person impugned that the latter boom times. That should bring the system one manipulated State and Federal members of step closer to offering electronic settlements, Parliament plus the PCJC and, by implication, which will cut out much travel and time wasting the Legal, Constitutional and Administrative for vendors and purchasers in remote or rural Review Committee even while I was a member areas. of it. That is ample justification to bring that Police numbers will be strengthened complaint direct to the Parliament and I under a Police Service budget increase of 7.3 believe that the Parliament must see that the per cent, taking law and order expenditure to a proposed inquiry begins immediately with record $573.84m. That is certainly going to be sufficiently broad terms of reference to clear important to the people of Mansfield where, the air once and for all. In case honourable from time to time, crime is still occurring. members are wondering why the documents were not referred to the PCJC, I can tell them Finally, I mention that, in this big picture, that the complainant has lost faith in that $500m in expenditure cuts along with particular watchdog. As a lawyer I give my total increases in tobacco tax and bank account support to an immediate inquiry. debits tax ensured that we brought down a balanced Budget in 1996-97. Despite these I turn now to items of particular interest to relatively small tax increases, Queenslanders the electorate of Mansfield. I note that $13m will still pay no more State tax per capita than has been allocated for the completion of the last year, and less than any other State. All in four-lane divided carriageway for the Capalaba all, this Budget will restore confidence and bypass, which I mentioned in this House gently restart our economy. I urge all recently. The sum of $75.1m has been honourable members to support the Bill. allocated for Queensland Motorways Limited Hon. J. FOURAS (Ashgrove) to complete the last stage of construction of (9.51 p.m.): I was interested to hear the the southern Brisbane bypass, which I previous speaker, the member for Mansfield, mentioned yesterday, along with the say that this Budget will restore confidence. No duplication of the Logan Motorway west of doubt that is wishful thinking, because I Wembley Road to the Ipswich Motorway. That believe that there will be no confidence. Quite will certainly ease some traffic at the Garden frankly, the people of Queensland will see City intersection. through the charade of half-truths and broken As part of an integrated regional transport promises in this Budget. The other day we saw plan for south-east Queensland, $8m has the ads in the newspaper—that highly been set aside for a busway and high vehicle expensive and unfortunate public relations occupancy lanes for the South East Freeway exercise that appeared in newspapers and Pacific motorway between Brisbane City throughout the State—that said that we had a and the Logan Motorway. The sum of $10m back to basics Budget. Those ads should has been set aside for the QE II Jubilee really have been saying that we had a Budget Hospital redevelopment involving installation of of half-truths and broken promises. 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2991

For me, the most fascinating thing that papers, they will see an increase of 4.8 per came out of this Budget debate was the cent. Anybody who can add up will find out Treasurer's statement that it was because of that that increase is greater than the inflation the coalition's seven-month delay in assuming and population rates. office that it inherited Budget difficulties. That As the Leader of the Opposition, Peter is absolute proof that this coalition Beattie, said in his speech, this Budget sees Government is not ready for Government. It the greatest raid on trust funds that has ever certainly did not hit the ground running. It is been contained in a Queensland Budget. If certainly not ready. From the first day of the the former Government had done something coalition Government, the Treasurer has tried like that, imagine what Mr Borbidge and Mrs her best to undermine business confidence. Sheldon would have been saying! They would Members opposite can no longer say that this have been pillorying us from one end of Budget will restore confidence. Over the last Queensland to the other. We see $227m seven months, that confidence has taken from the Queensland Infrastructure evaporated. Finance Fund as well as a further $167m from The high point was the tabling of the the sale of the State gas pipeline. That totals FitzGerald audit. When the Premier tabled that $394m. Of course, the avarice of that mob report, I interjected quite vociferously and opposite, their need to get their hands on suggested that he throw it in the bin. I saw the money and to empty hollow logs, does not graphs on the cover of the FitzGerald audit stop there. We actually have a further stripping that showed this ballooning underlying deficit. of $700m of dividends from Queensland State If that was the case, we would not today be enterprises—a 100 per cent increase. discussing a Budget such as this one and we Time after time, I remember sitting in the would not be discussing a Budget of record Speaker's chair and listening to the Premier, expenditure. when he was the Leader of the Opposition, To the credit of Opposition members, complaining bitterly about the Labor before even the economic analysts said that Government raiding Government enterprises the report was a sham, we said that it was a and saying that it was emptying hollow logs. sham. We knew that our stewardship of the The Labor Government did nothing of the sort. Queensland economy was second to none. Of However, his Government and his Treasurer course, after that many competent economic stand condemned for doing just that. commentators said the same. Daily, we had We should also look at the other macro this heralding of the fact that Queensland was factor in this Budget and that is the record in an economic crisis and that it had an expenditure on capital works. The coalition has underlying deficit which, as time went on, made a lot of this expenditure. It regards it as seemed to grow. It grew from $180m to the best selling point of the Budget. In fact, $240m. Of course, in the end, what goes the coalition says that it is a 25 per cent around comes around. increase on last year. Of course, the coalition If members look at the Budget papers, forgot to tell the public of Queensland that it they will see unequivocally that there is a cash froze $406m from the 1995-96 Capital Works surplus of $2.3m, there is an underlying Program and, of that amount, $383m was surplus of $1.3 billion, and there is a surplus of returned to capital works. So really, when one $48m using accrual accounting—not a deficit, analyses last year's capital works budget of as the FitzGerald audit showed. More than $3.6 billion and this year's expenditure, one that, the former Government had a large see that it is only through the fact that the surplus of $240m in its Budget—and the coalition did not spend the money that the coalition was calling it a black hole. The former Government had allocated and carried coalition was saying that we were ripped off by it over to this year's Budget that it can say that the Federal Government to the tune of it has a record capital works budget. Again, $250m, which is not true. Page 8 of the that is part of the rubbery figures and the fraud Budget Overview indicates an increase of 5.5 that we have had to put up with in this Budget. per cent in cash payments from the However, in macro terms, my most Commonwealth—an increase of $253.5m. serious concern about this Budget is what the I will not talk about the macro elements of coalition has done in relation to recurrent this Budget for much longer. However, during spending. Mr Borbidge and other members of her speech the Treasurer stated—and this the coalition always criticised the former dumbfounded me absolutely—that taxation Government for being the big-spending Goss would not rise for the average consumer. Labor Government. We were castigated by What a joke! If members look at the Budget everyone for being big spenders. Of course, 2992 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 we now have a Budget with total outlays The day after the Budget was presented, increasing by 11.9 per cent, which is the I was interested to read an analysis of it by largest increase that we have seen for a very, Peter Morley, the economic writer for the very long time. If one looks further into the Courier-Mail. Despite the Treasurer's Budget, one sees that there is an increase of trumpeting about savings of $500m, she has 6.6 per cent in recurrent spending. I think that had great difficulty in indicating to anybody that is not sustainable. where the savings come from. Mr Morley I am seriously concerned that this argued that, allowing for the fact that there is Government is saying that it is going to phase always a bit of fat in Government, savings of out land tax and that it will continue to make this type were indeed quite outstanding. He sure that there is no growth in payroll tax. also said of that $500m in savings— Those two taxes bring growth into the "Certainly, it is one that justifies a Queensland Budget. When the Government detailed breakdown." says unequivocally that it is going to phase out The Treasurer has refused to answer the land tax for those millionaires down the Gold questions of Opposition members. She said, Coast and that it is going to limit the paying of "Wait for the Budget." Of course, the payroll tax to fewer and fewer people, the Treasurer is not interested in hearing this, but I bottom line is that the only thing the ask her to tell this Parliament what the make- Government can do is to sell the family silver. up of the $500m in savings is. All we have It is not going to be able to fund its Budget been told so far is that, short of obtaining because it will not have any growth in information from individual departments, we expenditure. Instead, it will have to impose a cannot have the details of how $500m will be user-pays system on people, such as those saved. Attempts in the Parliament and by the people using national parks and those people media to get a breakdown have failed. going to TAFE colleges, and increase tobacco However, the Treasurer has said quite tax. That is the only way the Government will unequivocally, "Just wait. The Budget debate be able to fund its increased expenditure. I is on in two days' time and I will tell you then." think that that is an absolute disgrace. The Treasurer is not listening now, and I think We do not see any privatisation in this that is rude. She is refusing to listen to me, but Budget, and I am very pleased about that. she is talking as hard as she can because she However, in my view, the only reason that we is embarrassed by this issue. I guarantee that are not seeing privatisation in this Budget is the Treasurer will not table information to show that the Government does not have an how $500m will be saved. absolute majority in the Parliament. I notice The public has given the Budget a very that the member for Gladstone has left the poor rating. People see the reluctance of the Chamber. Because Mr Borbidge is not sure of Treasurer to spell out details, and that does what the member for Gladstone would do if nothing for the credibility or the accountability the Government tried to privatise any of our of the Government, even though Government enterprises, we are not seeing any members are so fond of telling us that that is privatisation in this Budget. Because the what they stand for. It is about time that we Government does not have an absolute had a bit of credibility and accountability. majority, it is not game to privatise. Indeed, the Treasurer's failure to provide Government members tried to privatise school details has a negative effect. Peter Morley cleaning services and Mrs Cunningham told stated— them where to go. She gave us the numbers to be able do what we wanted to do. "Rather, it has the opposite reaction, Therefore, I predict that the coalition raising scepticism that some of the privatisation agenda will be on hold during the Budget figures may bounce if dropped." term of this Government because it does not There is no doubt about it—the figures are have an absolute majority. very rubbery and rubbery figures will definitely The Labor Party corporatised Government bounce. business enterprises, which made them The most important issue for my efficient and allowed them to build up assets. constituents, and for me as a member of this The Government is going to strip those Parliament, is unemployment. Yesterday, enterprises, such as the electricity industry and Queensland's unemployment rate rose to 9.8 the ports. These enterprises have cash per cent. This is not just a fluke. If one looks at surpluses in excess of operating requirements the figures for the previous three months, the and they will continue to provide further one- underlying trend has been an increase in the off contributions to the Budget. What a rate. Therefore, this is not a one-off; this is a wonderful phrase—one-off contributions! trend of increasing unemployment in 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2993

Queensland. That trend will get worse. job, they have none of that. Therefore, I think However, what do we see in the Budget that this will create a lack of social cohesion. will correct that? The other day the secretary to the original I am concerned for the long-term Canberra inquiry was quoted in the paper as unemployed. Indeed, I chair the Skillshare saying that the biggest danger to social Program in my electorate, and I will come to cohesion was unemployment. Everybody that later. In addition to a lot of Federal worries about deficits and pleasing the Government funding, the State Labor financial markets. Ultimately, this country is rich Government provided proper funding for enough and has enough resources to ensure employment programs. The Labor that everybody is given a fair go. Public service Government allocated $30m to labour is about giving everybody a fair go, it is about programs for the long-term unemployed. providing outcomes for people and it is about Minister Santoro has said— making sure that there is social justice. I "The way we will solve the believe that the Budget denies that in the unemployment problem is not by creating areas of public housing, employment and mickey mouse, short-term employment training. That is ridiculous. Ultimately, a lot of opportunities." money will be given out for case management What a joke! That shows how callous and and they will get the best people, not the long- indifferent the Minister is. The Minister for term unemployed. Those people will get the Training and Industrial Relations has abolished jobs; they will take the money, put it in their the Public Sector Subsidies and Trainees pockets and run. Program, the Job Training and Placement Prior to the last election, Labor promised Program, the Land Employment Enterprise an extra 500 police over three years. After the Facilitation Program and the Youth and grandiose promises that the coalition made in Employment Service Program. the June 1995 election and the Mundingburra We also have Vince Lester, a classic in by-election campaigns, we have an increase this place. He supported the cleaners and five of 139 police. In electorates like mine, there is members of his electorate who work on this a rationalisation of resources. Police stations program. He came into this House and cried are being closed and there is a grouping of crocodile tears, saying that they were such police stations. In my electorate, the large good workers that they should be kept on in complex at Ferny Grove which encompassed Government. That is classic Vince Lester! He the CIB and the Juvenile Aid Bureau from The is always getting away from the bad decisions Gap police station—which we built at great of the Government. He is everybody's friend. expense—will be scattered all over Brisbane. He said what a disgraceful thing this was. I get That appears inevitable because of the new absolutely annoyed that the people he complex. Therefore, I plead to the Minister: represents do not see through him, but why not use The Gap Police Station so that nevertheless he appears to get away with it we have more policemen on the beat and very successfully. walking the suburbs. One of the serious problems in The Gap is that young people are Over the next three and a half years, a playing up and are behaving in an antisocial further $1.8 billion will be cut from Federal way because they are bored. employment programs. As I said earlier, I chair the Skillshare Program at Enoggera. We run a Finally, I turn to the western bypass. I number of programs such as Job Skills and mentioned this issue briefly the other day, but Job Clubs. Of course, the new Work I did not get time to say all I wanted to. The Opportunities Program will also be slashed. I Integrated Regional Transport Plan is in draft am of the opinion that funding for the form. That plan discusses the need for a study Skillshare Program will be discontinued in a of the western bypass. This has been going year's time. How sad it is for long-term on for approximately 20 years in the Ashgrove unemployed to have nowhere to go and electorate. In fact, there was a story in one of nobody to care for them. today's papers about the corridor coming though The Gap. My office has been In many ways, the best thing one can do besieged by calls about that. I say to the for the welfare of human beings is to give Minister, it is about time that we put this to them work. The right to work and the dignity rest. that comes with working is fundamental in any society. People will always ask, "What do you My position is very clear. I will not support do?" You are what you do. If a person has a a corridor that runs on the eastern side of the job, they belong, they contribute and they are dam. Even if it goes on the other side—which, a part of society. If a person does not have a from what people have told me, will be more 2994 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 difficult—there is still a problem because it will that money should go into this area of become a quick route for people coming from Queensland because of the tourist dollar the Warrego Highway and Caboolture. With a spent there. She thinks that, if facilities are ring-road, there is always the problem of provided, more people will visit and more connecting roads. There are only two possible money will be made. That is probably true, but connecting roads—Samford Road and why should the south-east corner of the State Waterworks Road. Those roads are already be singled out? clogged and there will be chaos if they are to I have said on many occasions in this be used in that way. Under the current House that the Mackay regional economy is circumstances, although the old Route 20 will worth an estimated $2.6 billion per annum. take traffic away from the city, the problem is That represents a per capita contribution from that it will create much more chaos than it the Mackay district to the Queensland alleviates. In a submission to the Transport economy of $23,500, which is substantially Minister, I will be saying that I do not believe above the State average of $18,400. that we need a study; it is not a goer at all. Mackay's economy is predominantly geared to Ultimately, I want the Minister to say servicing the mining industry, mainly the coal unequivocally to the people of my electorate, industry, and the sugar industry. It is one of "Let's put it to bed." Let us end all the the most livable cities in Australia. The Minister speculation. People are not game to buy land for Sport will find that out tomorrow. It is or a house. I have a very good friend who nestled between national parks, tropical wants to buy a block of land near Payne rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef. Tourism Road, but he is terrified to do so. I do not is Mackay's fastest growing industry, with blame him, because a corridor is rumoured for immense potential for future development. the area. It is about time that we settled the The people of Mackay have established issue. cultural and sporting organisations and Three days before the last election, my facilities that on a per capita basis would be Liberal opponent put a story in a throwaway unequalled in Australia. paper—and I was not even consulted—that The Queensland Conservatorium of Music the western bypass would go right through established its first campus outside of The Gap. That was pretty cheeky, but good Brisbane in Mackay and is now under the luck to him. I must admit that it would have auspices of the Central Queensland University. hurt a bit and I would have lost some votes. Mackay's rental market is one of the tightest in The bottom line is that I do not think the paper the State, sitting on 1.3 per cent. The reason should have run that story without seeking my for this is that everyone wants to live in comment. Nevertheless, the stories will keep Mackay because of the climate, the lifestyle on going. Rumours and innuendo will be and the relatively high job prospects that the spread by people indicating that this road will city offers. More people are retiring to Mackay be built in that area. It is about time that we than ever before. fixed that road. In outlining the potential that Mackay has This is a Budget of broken promises and and the contribution that the city makes to our half-truths. It is a Budget based on rubbery State, I am sorry to say that I can also bring to figures. this House's attention the hypocrisy and lies Time expired. put forward by the Government in its recent Budget in relation to Mackay. Firstly, I will Mr MULHERIN (Mackay) (10.12 p.m.): touch on the topic of tourism. In the recent This evening, I would like to speak on the Federal Budget, a 500 per cent increase in the effects the Budget of deceit and broken reef tax was announced. That is an increase promises brought down by the Honourable from $1 to $6 per person per day. Mr Barry Treasurer in this House on Tuesday will have Dean, owner of Roylen Cruises in Mackay, on my electorate of Mackay. I call it a Budget who has been running cruise boats out from of deceit and broken promises because the Mackay to the Great Barrier Reef for many members opposite me and the Premier and years, said after the announcement of the 500 the Treasurer would have the people of per cent hike in the tax that if the Federal Mackay think that they fared well from the Government goes ahead with the tax he proceeds directed to this city from the Budget. would have to walk away from his business. In fact, the people of Mackay should feel Just to rub salt into the wounds of tourist ripped off. They should feel like they have operators such as Mr Dean, the Treasurer been treated like second-class citizens in decided to charge an additional $3 per person comparison with their cousins in the south-east per day for visitors to national parks. I put it to corner of the State. The Treasurer has said the House that no average family could afford 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2995 the cost of a visit to a national park on the Councillor Gordon White and members of the Great Barrier Reef once the coalition Mackay Port Authority to address the issue Governments have had their way. It is all right and reach a satisfactory outcome. The for the Treasurer to say that the south-east Mackay Port Authority is willing to put up $6m corner attracts tourists, but surely the Great to begin the project, but it needs the Barrier Reef, with its worldwide renown, guarantee of this Government that the other deserves a little better treatment than that $8m required will be forthcoming from next dished out by this deceitful Government. year's Budget. The other setback delivered to the people Mr Speaker, I put it to you that even if this of Mackay in the coalition's Budget is that the deceitful Government gives such a promise, $8m allocated by the former Goss Labor can it be trusted to uphold its side of the Government for the construction of the marina agreement? The people of Mackay and all at the Mackay harbour, and the associated those involved in the marina project have redevelopment, has been scrapped. The $8m been duped into believing that this coalition in funding had been made available by the Government would honour the commitment former Labor Government to assist the made by the former Labor Government, and Mackay Port Authority in providing look at the result—lies, lies and more lies. Let infrastructure development for a marina, which us look at the Treasurer's slush fund. The would have included a new southern Treasury advance account has been allocated breakwater. No doubt this cut has been made $259m for unscheduled contingencies this to help pay for the abolition of the $200m financial year. I believe that the Treasurer Sunshine Coast toll road. The decision to not should look at funding the marina project from reallocate the $8m could jeopardise the this account. marina development. Another blow to the people of Mackay, On 25 June 1996, the local assessment and this time it is a real disadvantage to the committee made a recommendation to the city, is the decision by the coalition to abolish Transport Minister on who should be the the State's key Jobs Training and Placement preferred developers of the marina and resort Service. By this decision, the Government has complex. My greatest fear is that the decision abandoned Mackay's young and long-term by the coalition Government to scrap that unemployed. The State unemployment funding could mean that the developers will forecast for this period was 9 per cent, but this look elsewhere to invest their money. The has blown out to 9.8 per cent. That is a 0.8 decision to shelve the marina will have long- per cent jump from the last period. Meanwhile, term effects in the region and proves that this the latest ABS figures for the Mackay region really is a no jobs Budget for Mackay. The indicate that the youth unemployment rate, marina development was to be a catalyst in that is, people in the 15 to 19-year-old age creating huge employment during the bracket, stands at 19 per cent. The State construction phase and the development of average for this age group is 12.5 per cent. It the marina. is important that we do something for these A Government member interjected. kids and get them into full-time employment. Mr MULHERIN: It has made the front In 1994-95, the Mackay office of the page since the Budget was brought down. Youth Employment Service assisted over 700 The Government has not had a run in the young unemployed individuals to get jobs and Daily Mercury on the Budget because people training, and provided over $200,000 in grants feel that they have been ripped off. The to four organisations for community Minister for Transport and Main Roads gave employment programs. I believe that training his undertaking that he would provide the programs such as this one got results and are money for this wonderful development. vital because they prepared young people and The resort hotel complex would have the long-term unemployed with the skills attracted the lower end of the convention necessary to find jobs. The staff of the Mackay market to Mackay and boosted not only office of Training Employment (Queensland) employment but also the local economy. were informed on Wednesday of their sacking. There is also a safety aspect involved in this The office employed 10 staff in Mackay, and matter, with sailors sometimes travelling up to half of those people will lose their jobs. 36 hours to land in Mackay, only to be turned During the week in this place the away because there is no mooring for them. honourable member for Clayfield labelled On Thursday, 12 September, I wrote to the training programs delivered by Training Minister for Transport and Main Roads asking Employment (Queensland) as mickey mouse him to meet with me, the Mayor of Mackay, programs. I feel that this is an insult to the 2996 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 public servants at Training Employment next three years. The coalition Government (Queensland) and their clients who have has reduced police numbers to 152 for this worked long and hard to achieve positive year. outcomes. The people of Mackay know who Recently there was a brawl in the Mackay the real mickey mouse is: it is the Minister for city heart in which eight police officers had to Training and Industrial Relations, who has try to control a violent crowd of 40 people. I ratted on the young people of our city. He has wrote to the Minister the morning after this ratted on young people from Thursday Island incident occurred and called on him to to Roma and out to Mount Isa. He has ratted increase police numbers in Mackay on young people the length and breadth of immediately. As yet, I have not received a this great State. reply. The law-abiding citizens of Mackay have The abolition of Training Employment had enough, and I intend to put as much (Queensland) is a further kick in the guts to pressure as I can on the Minister to force him young unemployed in the wake of the Federal to increase numbers in my electorate. Apart Government's savage $1.8 billion cut in from the obvious danger to those involved in Budget funding for re-employment training the incident, the risk of serious injury to the programs.I feel that, after the savage eight police who had to respond to the Commonwealth cuts, the Minister for Training situation is a factor that cannot be ignored. and the Treasurer should be stepping in to do more in this area by boosting funding for I turn my attention to the state of funding employment programs instead of following for roads and bridges in my electorate. In the Senator Vanstone's callous lead in Mackay region there appears to be no extra abandoning our youth and long-term funding for roadworks or any commitment to unemployed. I again call on the Treasurer to the duplication of the Ron Camm Bridge. loosen the purse strings in her slush fund, the Mackay deserves better treatment from both Treasury advance account, and allocate the State and Federal coalition Governments sufficient funding to allow these programs to on this matter. The former Labor Government continue. Rather than merely following her promised that the duplication of the Ron economic rationalist colleagues in Canberra, Camm Bridge would have been completed by the Treasurer should stand up for our young June 1998. To date, the only activities that people. have occurred—bridge and roadworks design and hydrological surveys—were carried out by Let me move on to another topic that is a the former Labor Government. major concern to the people of Mackay— personal safety. In May 1996, the Mackay City I invite the Minister for Transport and Main Council commissioned a community attitude Roads when he is in Mackay—and I hope it is survey on a random sample of 1,000 within the next week or so, considering the households in Mackay. Seventeen per cent of mess the Government has created over the the community surveyed were quite concerned marina project—to look at the plight of about the level of crime and policing, which Mackay's motorists, who experience daily was significantly worse than the State average delays of up to 40 minutes when crossing the of 6.1 per cent in regard to this very issue. The Pioneer River from the northern part of the city same survey showed that 45 per cent of to the southern part of the city and vice versa. Mackay residents are less than satisfied with There is also a great need to provide an their personal safety standards. effective public transport system to reduce residents' dependency on the motor vehicle. During the last State election campaign, the coalition promised that, if elected, it would I turn the attention of the House to the build a new police station at North Mackay. devastating impact on rural and regional The northern side of Mackay is the major residents of the new taxes on tyres and oil. growth area of the region, with at least 60 per Because of the high number of coalmines cent of the population of Mackay City living on throughout the Bowen Basin, there are a lot of that side of the river. During the election miners who have a second residence in campaign, the then Opposition spokesperson Mackay and faithfully make the journey from on Police had all the solutions on crime, but as places like Moranbah on their weekends off to Minister he has delivered nothing except cuts. shop and have some rest and recreation. Last The coalition has ratted on the promise of the year, a total of 2.5 million tyres of all types new North Mackay police station and has were sold in Queensland, of which 60 per cent reduced police numbers in comparison to the of all car tyres and 70 per cent of all truck, promises made by Labor. The former Labor tractor and earthmoving tyres were sold to Government said that in 1996-97 there would rural and regional Queenslanders. As of 1 be an increase of 170 police every year for the January next year, the coalition's $3 tax will 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2997 apply to all new motorbike and passenger Government's commitment to contribute vehicle tyres, a $4.50 tax will apply to tractor $350,000 to the $1m Mackay Hockey and truck tyres and a $30 tax will apply to Association complex. Kevin Casey, the earthmoving tyres. We have seen the president of the association, and Greg Clutton, bumbling of the Liberal/National Party the chairman of the project committee, worked Government as it tried to decide just whom it tirelessly for Mackay hockey, seeking and represents. All of Queensland waits with bated gaining community backing and sponsorship. breath as the Government argues between It would have been heartbreaking for them portfolios to decide whether primary producers and everyone else involved in Mackay hockey will be exempt from this insidious tax. If if the coalition Government kept to its track primary producers are exempt, will the mining record and reneged on the funding. Every industry be next? If so, we all know who once sporting club, peak sporting organisation and again will be left footing the bill—the average athlete in Mackay will be bitterly disappointed worker, that is who. by this Budget. One would have to have blinkers on not Regional arts is another area that the to be able to see that people such as miners, coalition has treated with disdain. Recent who live in regional areas and who travel long years have seen a significant jobs growth in distances on the worst roads in the State and the Queensland arts industry and an emerging use tyres at a much faster rate than drivers in national and international recognition of the city, will be the ones to lose out because Queensland as a place of excellence in arts of this deceitful tax. When one considers that because of programs such as the Regional this National Party-led Government has broken Arts Development Fund, which was another its promises and introduced these new taxes Labor Government initiative. on tyres, the backdoor fuel tax on oil, a Mr Veivers: You wanted these figures tobacco tax and an entry fee into national and I have got them for you. Funding for parks, it is hard to believe that it once claimed sports facilities in Queensland has risen from to represent rural and regional Queensland. $37.8m to $43.9m and—— I turn now to sport. The coalition's funding Mr MULHERIN: Well—— cuts will deprive local Mackay athletes of the training facilities they require to excel in their Mr Veivers: Hang on, there is one chosen sport. Mackay has produced its fair more. The Sports budget has risen by $1.11m share of champion athletes such as Baeden to $68.56m. Choppy, Cathy Freeman, Sandra Brondello Mr MULHERIN: I would like to see and Tracey Belbin. All have reached the those figures. pinnacle of their sporting careers from humble Mr Veivers: I will table them. beginnings on the sports fields of Mackay. Future Mackay champions could be Mr MULHERIN: If the Minister tables disadvantaged by the spending cuts. The them, I will have a look at them on the plane coalition has slashed the Major Sports tomorrow. Facilities Program by more than half from Unfortunately, though, regional arts $20.4m to only $7.3m. groups have been dudded by this Mr Veivers: No, that's wrong. Government, which has increased the capital Mr MULHERIN: What is it? contribution to the Regional Arts Development Fund from $10m to only $12m. Under Labor it Mr Veivers: They have increased that. would have been increased to $15m. Local You are telling porkies here. government will be forced to dig into ratepayer Mr MULHERIN: Oh, well. funds to maintain the high standard of arts in The Statewide Sports Development regional Queensland. Program has been cut, and funding under the As I stated earlier, Mackay has the Community Sports Development program has tightest rental market in the State, and over also been cut. Last year, 439 sporting clubs the next 15 to 20 years several more throughout the State received grants under coalmines will be coming on line. This means that program. Under the former Labor that there will be an even greater demand Government, funding for sport grew from $7m placed on the housing market in the region. in 1989 to over $36m. Mackay hockey was a The State average population growth is beneficiary of the Major Sport Facilities 2.3 per cent, while growth in the Mackay Program under the former Labor Government. region is 4 per cent. The Budget allocation to It was pleasing to see that the coalition housing will certainly not keep up with Government honoured the previous Labor Mackay's housing requirements. 2998 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

In the area of education, the coalition has members back to the first day of school this totally dismissed the problems facing the North year, when Year 1 students were left stranded Mackay State High School in my electorate. without a classroom at Windaroo State While I acknowledge and welcome new School, where they were herded onto buses, projects such as the new music block at in some cases without the knowledge of their Fitzgerald school, the new administration block parents, and transferred to another school. As at the Slade Point State School and the new if the first day at school for these Year 1 science block for the Mackay State High youngsters is not traumatic enough without School, I am amazed that the Government that thrown on top. This was fairly typical of the has chosen to ignore the very real problems at contempt of care, the lip service notions of the North Mackay State High School. The education and a fair indication of the levels of projected growth for the school for 1996 was arrogance displayed by the previous 1,239 and for 1998 is 1,415. There is a need Government. In contrast, I am absolutely to replace two old demountable, tinnie delighted to be able to report to the people of classrooms and the requirement for a new Albert that the coalition Government really building to house two computer-specific cares about the education and the future of classrooms with a staffroom and two general Queensland students and has shown an learning areas. Two extra classrooms would outstanding commitment in the form of its also be needed to replace the modular record capital works allocation in the coalition buildings to address enrolment growth. I ask Government's first State Budget since 1989. the Minister for Education: why hasn't the Millions of dollars have been allocated to coalition Government addressed these needs schools in the Albert electorate and its close in the Budget? environs. There will be a new primary school at Water is the essential ingredient of the Edens Landing, which will incorporate a long-term economic viability of Mackay's special education unit and a double unit agricultural, mining and service industries. I preschool. Helensvale State High School will welcome the Government's continuing benefit from an almost completed amenities commitment to the Teemburra Dam project. I block, and work on the composite workshop would also like to take the opportunity of will commence shortly. Helensvale State congratulating Mackay Sugar and the Mackay School will gain from a remodelled Tourism and Regional Development Bureau administration block, while Windaroo State for commissioning studies into Mackay and its School gains the music portion of the general regional water requirements. I also call on the learning and music block—that is a long- Minister for Natural Resources to provide delayed project, dating back to the election additional staff at the Mackay office of his last July. On many occasions, it was department to clear up the backlog of on-farm suggested that the delay was caused because water storage proposals from the Mackay and the previous Government lost the seat of district canegrowers. Albert at that election. Most of what I have spoken about this Windaroo Valley State High School is evening proves that the Budget brought down soon to commence Stage 4 of its construction by Mrs Sheldon is a document of deceit and program. This means two new study blocks, a broken promises and that it offers no hope to double machinery shop incorporating art, the unemployed. The Treasurer lied about no textiles and science rooms along with the soon new taxes and she lied when she said that to be completed staff and amenities block. All there was no freeze on capital works. The only these are in addition to the recently completed new initiatives for Mackay were educational Stage 3 which included a second metal initiatives, for which I would like to congratulate workshop, performing arts block and general the Government. Other items listed in the studies block. That is a big winner for the capital outlays such as the police station, the families residing in the Windaroo Valley area. Dalrymple Bay coal terminal expansion and Woongoolba State School, another school redevelopment of the hospital were ongoing feeling the pressure of an expanding Labor programs. The Budget will have little population, will be provided with the funds to benefit to ordinary families in Mackay as they build another general learning block. are the ones who will bear the brunt of the The population growth in Albert has been Treasurer's tax hikes. unprecedented and will continue at this rapid Time expired. rate, but this coalition Government is prepared and the money will be spent on those with Mr BAUMANN (Albert) (10.32 p.m.): In whom our future lies—the children and youth rising to speak to the Appropriation Bills before of the State of Queensland. Funding for the the House tonight, I would like to take Environment Program within the Department 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 2999 of Environment has been increased by 16 per commitment to support such a positive cent to $34.1m. By the way, former State initiative. Labor Minister for Environment, Pat Comben, At this point, I would like to draw to the said in Wednesday's Australian that the Treasurer's attention the plight of TPI Budget allocation was better than he had pensioners of our combined armed forces and expected. Also, according to the same ask her whether any consideration could be newspaper, other key environmentalists have given to improving the mobility of this group of praised the Budget. Similarly, interested people—around 1,000 in total, I believe—by groups have commended the efforts of this way of similar concessions on off-peak urban Government for its appropriate introduction of rail, bus and ferry services as those offered to the tyre levy and entry fees to national parks. our seniors. These new funds, of course, will flow directly to this department's environmental framework Turning to the portfolio of Families, Youth and initiatives which are results-oriented rather and Community Care, I am pleased to note than just rhetoric rich. and acknowledge that the Honourable Minister, Kev Lingard, has provided an extra Last week, a gentleman entered my $9.85m over three years to implement key electorate office and asked when he, as a self- legislative changes driven by the Juvenile funded retiree, would be able to have a Justice Act. While victims will now have more Seniors Card—a coalition promise, he assured rights, a focus has also been placed on me. From December this year, the age for a strengthening the requirements for parents to non means tested Seniors Card will be accept responsibility for care and supervision reduced from 70 to 65. Again, that is a of their own children. A case management coalition undertaking that has been achieved. system will be developed in response to the This man, and thousands of others like him juvenile justice policy and legislative initiatives who have worked hard all their lives and saved such as youth conferencing and the increased money for their retirement, will no longer be involvement of parents in the court process will financially punished for doing so. Instead, they assist our young people to get back on track will receive a reward they well deserve for the with their lives and, at the same time, teach efforts they have made to live out their lives them how unacceptable behaviour has independently. There is no hand-out mentality unpleasant consequences for all involved, not here. The positive attitude of self-funded only the victim but also the perpetrator and the retirees should not only be applauded but also victim's and the wrongdoer's families. rewarded by both State and Federal The Honourable Kev Lingard has Governments alike. earmarked $1.9m over three years to establish The Treasurer and member for Caloundra a number of projects to stem the growth of stated that the Budget recognises that significant numbers of homeless young people Queensland is asset rich and cash poor and or those considered at risk of leaving home or has been spending beyond its means. The school due to personal and family difficulties. estimated 3,600 self-funded retirees presently In providing further services to the needs of between the ages of 65 and 70 did not spend youth in this State, the Honourable Minister beyond their means. They thought and has dedicated another $1.9m over three years planned for their future, and I hope that this to local government and community Budget will lead the way in providing the organisations in rural communities to employ means by which more people may do the youth workers with a planned effort to pro- same. I hope that next year and in future actively address the needs of young people years, far more people will be encouraged to who have limited employment and recreational provide for their own retirement and will feel options in their home towns. confident in the knowledge that there will be Nerang Neighbourhood Centre no punishment for doing so. For those Incorporated will receive funding of $45,455 to younger retirees who are not yet eligible for establish a family support service in the the full Seniors Card, the Deputy Leader and Helensvale/Studio Village area. This service Treasurer has introduced another initiative, the will operate under the Family and Individual Seniors Business Discount Card, which allows Support Program and will promote the ability people over the age of 60 years discounts on of families and individuals to achieve and goods in over 1,000 Queensland business sustain self-reliance as well as providing outlets in categories ranging from bakeries services to children and their families, through to clothing, electrical appliances, pest particularly where there is a risk of child abuse control, travel and many others. That is in itself or family breakdown. These support workers an indication of the private sector's will be attached to existing community-based 3000 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 organisations to ensure a practical approach Given the problems outlined in recent to service delivery. In this instance they will years of the institutionalised attitudes of some most certainly be appreciated by the people of staff employed in residential service facilities Helensvale and Studio Village. for the intellectually disabled, I welcome the The initiative shown by the Minister for move through the Disability Program to Families, Youth and Community Care in introduce an 18-month, certificate-level, in- establishing a new service to respond to the service training program incorporating 229 abuse of older people is to be commended. hours of off-the-job training. The ability to convert this course in the future to a My office recently took part in a consultative traineeship is also a most-needed and process with the Legal Aid Office. One of the welcome initiative indeed, as it benefits two areas of need highlighted in the Gold Coast groups of people, namely, those wishing to meeting was that of access to services—legal pursue a career in human services and people or otherwise—for the aged. Many aged people who are perhaps the most disadvantaged in are silent sufferers. This service will work with the community—those folk who are often so older people, service providers and families to underprivileged that they are unaware that support and protect older people who have they are disadvantaged. Any move to been abused. introduce more professionalism and care into The vast majority of older people are not supporting people with intellectual disabilities, unhealthy, disabled, alone or poor. They are as has been done by the Minister, the active, healthy, astute and positive Honourable Kev Lingard, is another initiative to contributors to the community, with a zest for be applauded. life that astonishes many of those who The member for Warrego and Minister for stereotype them as a spent force. We should Natural Resources, the Honourable Howard be harnessing, while being respectful of, the Hobbs, has allocated half a million dollars for knowledge and abilities of our older pest, plant and animal management programs community members rather than retiring them designed to eradicate and prevent pest to society's scrap heap. I would like to see this outbreaks. These programs will address pest knowledge valued and used, especially in management at local, regional and State level areas which would assist in esteem building and will have strong links with other natural with the young. resource management programs, such as the The role of the combined Department of Strategic Weed Eradication and Educational Families, Youth and Community Care is very Program, or SWEEP, as it is more widely important, as for too long there has been a known. As I have mentioned in the House difference of concern between funding for the before, concern for the environment is central elderly and funding for the young. With the to the people of Albert. I am sure that any ageing demographics of the community, the efforts towards the eradication or prevention of economic and social emphasis will also shift weeds, often introduced from overseas, will be as welcome in my electorate as anywhere towards older people. This coalition else. I mention specifically the fireweed Government knows this and respects the infestation—a South African weed imported senior citizens, not for what they can achieve into this country which has a particularly at their age but purely for what they can and devastating effect on grazing land. do achieve as people contributing to the community. We, as a Government, by giving Having been a member of the Northern back and investing in social capital, ensure Waste Water Strategy Committee, a part of that all our families and communities are the Local Government Reclamation and Water beneficiaries. Management Scheme on the Gold Coast, I am keenly aware of the need to continue I know that within the electorate of Albert funding the water conservation campaign in many vital community services are performed conjunction with local governments. Waterwise quietly and without fanfare, and often without has received another $300,000 in recognition thanks, by people following their retirement of the benefits that this campaign provides to from the work force. However, often formal Queensland and will continue to provide with and/or informal assistance is required to this typically positive support and enable our valued elders to live and enjoy life endorsement. Combining as it does both rural to its full potential. These are just some of the and urban areas in times of drought, any areas being addressed in this Budget by the methods identified that will assist and Minister for Families, Youth and Community encourage community members to conserve Care. That certainly deserves the support of more water and utilise reclaimed or waste this House. water is to be applauded. The coalition 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 3001

Government has made a $1 billion Mr BAUMANN: I thank the Minister very commitment to the development of water much. That will be appreciated. It is great to infrastructure, focusing on successful modern see this Government supporting major technology and building with this knowledge Queensland events. In line with these innovative water quality and conservation initiatives, the Queensland Events Corporation projects. also receives a sizeable injection of funding to The welcome announcement by the again allow that organisation to broaden its focus and capture and support significant Minister for Emergency Services and Minister events for us here in what we will make the for Sport, the Honourable Mick Veivers, of the tourist capital of this country. construction of a new ambulance facility at Pimpama addresses positively the service Another example of commitment to our demands that come with dynamic growth in intercity trade, commerce and travel patterns is the Albert electorate area. I take this the swift and decisive approach by the opportune moment to suggest to the Minister Honourable the Minister for Transport and that sufficient land area for, say, fire services Main Roads, Vaughan Johnson, to the be set aside on that site for future appropriate implementation of the Pacific Highway emergency service occupation. The upgrade. That world-class motorway with its establishment of the new fire station at attendant HOV lanes and dedicated busways Helensvale is indeed timely. Although the initiatives is a stark contrast indeed to the six siting of this facility has attracted quite a lot of and a half years of dithering which was the public attention, it will nonetheless be previous Government's only contribution to this welcomed by the vast majority of the potentially monumental problem. surrounding community. The decision to lift the threshold of that most insidious of taxes, payroll tax, will be It is rewarding to be part of a Government appreciated by businesses affected. This committed to the provision of infrastructure in single most significant disincentive to adequate time to meet consumer demand. employment is something that I will continually The $1.6m installation of a modular substation pressure Government to abolish just as quickly at Gaven to meet consumer growth and the and prudently as possible. This highly $1.5m allocated to infrastructure provision in discriminatory tax restricts the expansion of the Yatala industrial precinct to meet successful businesses and is a severe anticipated industry demand reflect a return to impediment to an expanding private sector solid and sensible business management. The driven economy. That is the only way to get Minister for Mines and Energy and the Minister the State back on the road. Likewise, another for Tourism, Small Business and Industry contributor to the burgeoning taxes, fees and obviously deserve recognition for these fines revenue base of our predecessors is land initiatives. tax. There is more good news for Queensland As I said, the Honourable Bruce on this front, with the first step taken on the Davidson, Minister for Tourism, Small Business road to its abolition. The three-year averaging and Industry, recognised immediately the of property valuation is a great plus. Both of significant importance of tourism to these taxes, now abused, indicate how Queensland's economy as one of our major important it is to establish a system to review earners of export dollars—and it is growing and reform such factors on an ongoing basis. annually, I might add. This industry certainly Honourable members opposite, in their deserves the extra attention that it is being criticisms of this Budget, have made much of given by this Government. Of particular the big-spending myth. In their criticisms they interest to the people of Albert, being as it is a identify an increase in total outlays of some significant part of the larger Gold Coast City, is 10.6 per cent. In doing so, they have elected a valuable increase in funding to the Gold to overlook the change in accounting Coast Tourism Bureau. Once again, the doors methodology that now brings back to the are open for business to participate in ledger some trust funds that have previously marketing and promotional incentives in the been dealt with as off-budget items. As a convention and incentive market, with both the matter of fact, that exercise is a revenue- QTTC and the GCTB. neutral exercise and, if excluded—and that needs to be done to ascertain relative Mr Davidson: I also have under comparisons with the previous Government's consideration that question you put to me two efforts—one will see that the real increase in or three months ago. I have nearly finalised outlays by this coalition Government is among the funding for that matter you have put to the lowest increases since 1990 at me. approximately 6.4 per cent, while the Labor 3002 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 average over its full term was about 8.5 per I now direct honourable members to page cent. 45 of the same document and the heading Perhaps it is appropriate at this time to "Trust and Special Funds—Lapsed remind the House that, on coming to Appropriations". At the bottom of that section, Government in 1989, the Labor Government under the heading "Department of Training of the day introduced a first Budget that and Industrial Relations—Public Safety— reflected a 20 per cent increase in taxes, fees Workers' Compensation Fund", one sees that and fines over that of the last National Party $49m was not used last year. That is $49m Government. When averaged over the full slushing around! I would like to know where tenure of the previous Labor Government, a that has gone to and so would the workers hefty increase in taxes, fees and fines of 10.5 and employers who paid that money into the per cent was recorded. In contrast, the first scheme. They would like to find out what has coalition Budget since 1989 sees an increase happened to their money. in that area of 4.8 per cent, or less than half I turn now to page 34 of the same the average increases of the previous document. Under the heading "Trust and Government during its term of office. Special Funds Receipts—Property Income" is Despite this reduction, I can tell the heading "Department of Training and honourable members that Cabinet had a Industrial Relations", which shows the Workers challenging time convincing me that expanded Compensation Fund containing nearly $94m. I taxes and levies were necessary, but given would like to know where that money has that Queensland's bottom line represented a gone to. What long pocket is that money in very sorry business indeed and that the that it cannot be used for the workers and electorate of Albert had a great and urgent employers of this State. That is sitting around need for infrastructure to support the people in a Government slush fund. residing there, I am confident that the people I turn now to page 36 and I will repeat in the electorate I represent will find that they some questions that I asked in this House stand to win much more than they lose. This nearly 12 months ago to the day. That really Budget contains reductions in excessive puts the lie to the Bill Kennedy inquiry and why bureaucracy and administration, thereby this Government is saying that it was allowing the Government to channel funds necessary. It is a straight-out con. I refer to the back into essential services and infrastructure Hansard record of a speech I gave 12 months to support rapid population and economic ago. In that speech I stated— growth. With a coalition Government at the helm members opposite might well watch and "The present crisis facing the learn. Workers Compensation Board seems to have sprung from an actuary's report Time expired. which states that common law claims are Mr PURCELL (Bulimba) (10.52 p.m.): It spiralling and that common law claims will gives me great pleasure to rise in this escalate from the 1993-94 level of $81m Chamber today to prove that the suggestion to $280m in the future." that the Workers Compensation Fund has a Since then, the Government has conducted problem is a lie, and to talk about the mayhem an inquiry and discovered what it costs, and it that the changes to the Workers found out that the fund was $10m worse off Compensation Fund will cause to the workers than we knew it was 12 months ago. What a and employers of this State. lot of rubbish! The Government knew that that I refer to the Treasurer's Annual fund was running at a loss and its position. Statement 1995-96, specifically to Part 2, The Premier and the Minister responsible for Public Accounts, on page 90. Honourable that portfolio made promises, promises and members will note Item 5, "Investment of promises. I can table over 18 statements Specific Trust and Special Fund Balances". At made by both those members that were the bottom of that item honourable members quoted in the Courier-Mail in which they will see that over $1 billion is in the Workers promised workers in this State that they would Compensation Fund at the moment. That not touch common law entitlements. They are fund made over $180m profit this year alone. all lies! The members knew over 12 months There is no deficit; that is cash in the fund, as ago what was going on. The Kennedy report the accounts show. That is their net market was a con. The Government picked up Bill value as of today. It is not a paper loss as has Kennedy because he is a respected been suggested in this House; that is money businessman of this State and used him to in the bank. take away rights from workers. 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 3003

In that speech 12 months ago I referred That is part of the con at the moment. I to— continued to quote the Master Builders ". . . a premium income for the year 1993- Association— 94 of $503m to a projected figure for this "Negotiations have been conducted year of $590m." over a considerable period on this matter According to the Treasurer's Annual with the Workers Compensation Board." Statement 1995-96, that figure turned out to Workers were not told that that was going on. be $568m. The figure for this year is very Neither was the industry, because I have since interesting: it is $555m—well down. More checked with people who worked in the workers are coming into this State; more industry. Not one of them knew that that was people are working than ever before and yet going on. They had workers running around fewer premiums are being collected. who were not covered by workers' Mr Malone: It's only a six month compensation and who did not have their own Budget. insurance. However, when those workers were injured, the board picked them up, paid their Mr PURCELL: These are 12-monthly wages and, if the worker was so badly injured statements, you goose! They happen to be that it went that far, paid the common law put out by the Treasurer so they are right; they costs while the rest of the employers in this are put out by yourselves! State paid for those bludgers—and continue As I said last year— to pay! "These are the premium yearly The editorial states further— incomes that employers pay to have their "The Board has now advised that workers insured. The question that must nailing guns attached to a compressor, be asked is: is that a true figure of all which is owned by the user, and drop workers who would qualify under the Act?" saws will be regarded as plant and I said 12 months ago that it is not, and I am equipment and not hand tools." still saying it now. There is a con job going on. I would like to see people use a hand gun with At that time I asked whether the workers were anything else but their hands. It is the name of insured by their employers. For example, the tool; it is a hand gun. The article states those in the industry from which I came, the further— building industry, do not insure all their "This, in effect, means such persons workers. They work a con on the other are regarded as trade contractors and not employers who pay and on the Workers as workers. It also means that the vast Compensation Fund. Also, in the same majority of labour-only carpenters speech last year I reported that the Master engaged in the industry will not be Builders Association was boasting that it had regarded as workers under the Workers' advised its members of 30,000 employees for Compensation Act and that Builders will whom they did not have to pay premiums—in not be liable to pay workers' breach of the Workers' Compensation Act! compensation premiums on their behalf." The Workers Compensation Board was breaching its own Act! I will go through those That is in direct contravention of the Act. Acts. I obtained them from the Parliamentary I turn now to two pertinent Acts. One is Library today so they are current. The people the Industrial Relations Act 1990. In the Act, in the Workers Compensation Board should "employee" is defined as— be hung, drawn and quartered or at least "a person employed in any calling, sacked and not given their superannuation for whether on wages or piecework rates, or putting in jeopardy the rights of workers in this as a member of a buttygang, and State to sue when injured. includes— Twelve months ago, I quoted from an (a) a person whose usual occupation is editorial in its journal— that of an employee in a calling." ". . . the Master Builders Association told That means a carpenter, a labourer, a truck its members that they could save paying driver, a butcher, baker, or candlestick maker, workers' compensation premiums to some or whatever one wants to call it. The Act states 30,000 employees"— further— their words, not mine— "(b) a person employed in any calling "for whom they already paid premiums." notwithstanding that— 3004 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

(i) the person working under Government here. At the time, Vince Lester contract for a labour only, or was the Minister. This is the part of the Act substantially labour only. that they could not beat Vince on because this (ii) the person is lessee of any tools Act is a strong Act that looks after employees. or other implements of It states— production, or of any vehicle "(4) A labour hire agency that arranges, used in delivery of goods; for reward, for a worker who is party to a (iii) the person is the owner, wholly contract of service with the agency to do or partially, of any vehicle used work for someone else continues to be in transport of goods or the worker's employee while the worker passengers; does the work for the other person under an arrangement made between the if such factor is the only reason for agency and the other person. holding the person not to be an employee." (5) A person who works under a contract, or a piecework rates, for labour only or So people cannot get around the Act by trying substantially for labour only, including one to set up that people are labour only and are who supplies tools of trade designed for not employees. use by hand"—— The Act states further— That is where the Workers Compensation "(c) each person, being of 1 of 4 or more Board got rid of 30,000 employees and the persons who are, or claim to be, premiums that covered them, letting partners working in association in any employers off the hook. It did not tell anybody calling or business." about that. All of those people were not They are employees. I turn to the most insured. The Act continues— damaging legislation. I turn to the Workers' ". . . is a worker for the purposes of this Compensation Act itself, which states— Act, employed by the person for whom "Persons declared to be employers the labour is provided. or workers (6) A tributer"—— 8.(1) For the purposes of this Act, a My mining mate is not here, but section 6 person declared by a provision of this refers to piece rates for miners who work for section to be an employer or a BHP underground. So they are on contract. It worker is an employer or, as the case has nothing to do with how they are paid. Like may be, a worker in the the Kennedy report, the Government is going circumstances prescribed by the to pick up only PAYE employees. This picks provision. up all workers; not just PAYE employees. This (2) Where a holding company lets on person is on a contract working for a set hire the services of a waterside amount of money for a person. Therefore, he worker or a supervisor stevedore. is an employee. The Act states further— . . . "(7) A jockey riding or driving a horse on a (3) Except as prescribed in racecourse, or doing on the racecourse subsection (2)"— anything incident to riding or driving a and this refers to wharfies— horse on the racecourse . . . "a person who lends or lets on hire (8) A person who works a farm as a the services of a worker who is a sharefarmer." party to a contract of service with that This should interest some bods opposite. I person continues to be the employer know that this will interest farmers. It states— of the worker while the worker's ". . . any wages-worker employed by that services are so lent or let on hire. person, is a worker employed by the (4) A labour hire agency"—— owner of the farm except where"—— This is where they have been trying to get This part refers to cases in which people away with it for years, but they have not been supply their own machinery. In that case, the able to. In regard to workers' compensation, person is not a worker. Section (8)(b) refers to this Act is one of the strongest Acts in farmers getting more than two-thirds of the Australia. They tried it on in New South Wales crop not being defined as workers. If a farmer and Victoria, and in Victoria they beat the gets less than two-thirds, that farmer is still a Government. They could not beat the worker. 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 3005

The Act states further— workers a lesser standing than they have now. "(9) A salesperson, canvasser, They will sell out those people who vote for collector, or other person paid wholly or them. Those blokes opposite know as well as I partly by commission is a worker." know that there are workers who vote for them, but they are going to sell them down How many people in this State who are doing the drain. door-to-door stuff are covered by the employer through the commission that they are paid? I Mrs McCauley: They won't know how bet that there are none. The Workers good it is. Compensation Board has done nothing about Mr PURCELL: They will not know picking up these people. In my opinion, there because members opposite will not tell them. is half a billion dollars slushing around not Members opposite are conning them. That is being picked up. Because of that, we are the problem. going to make the workers in this State suffer. Mr Hegarty: You had a chance to fix it, The Act continues to refer to salespeople. It though. states— Mr PURCELL: Twelve months ago, I did "(10) If a contract is made with a what I could do. Now I am doing the same contractor . . . for the performance of work thing. Things have not changed much, have that is not incidental to a trade or they? business regularly carried out by the contractor, individually or by means of a I want to go to the problems that have partnership, and the contractor— been brought up by the Kennedy inquiry—the things that are under the axe at the moment. (a) neither sublets the contract nor More than 75 per cent of all court claims will employs a wages-worker; or be eliminated. So 75 per cent of people who (b) although employing a wages-worker, we look after now will not be looked after in performs part of the work personally." regard to common law claims. WorkCover will So that person is still a worker himself. It is decide 98 per cent of all workers' covered by the person who lets the contract to compensation claims. The claims will be him. The Act states further— decided upon by people who are plonked there by the board and who will do what they ". . . the contractor, and any wages-worker are told. There will be no appeals from those employed by the contractor in decisions by WorkCover. Journey and recess performance of the work, is a worker claims—that is those arising from travelling to employed by that person who makes the and from work—will be abolished. That is contract with the contractor." absolutely disgusting. It is going to cost $12m, It is fairly simple, isn't it? The laws of this land yet the Government will not cover workers say that the Workers Compensation Board is travelling to and from work. The Government abiding by the law. Because of that we are intends to make families suffer if their making workers suffer. breadwinner gets killed going to or from work Mrs McCauley: You have lost your for a lousy $12m. place. Mrs McCauley: Disgusting! Mr PURCELL: No, I have not lost it at Mr PURCELL: I agree with the Minister. all. Care claims will be abolished. If members Those people opposite like to think that opposite do not know what carer claims are they are the upholders of democracy and the about, they ought to go and find out. They Westminster system. The bottom line of that is relate to the people who care for those who that all people are created equal and should are really sick. If members know anybody who be treated equally under the law. Members has asbestosis and who is on his or her last opposite are going to make workers less equal breath—and that person is on his or her last than anybody else. They will not be able to breath for three or four years—they will know sue under common law, but any other citizen what it will mean to take away the ability of can. So who are members opposite going to that person's next of kin to be able to look make less equal? They are the upholders of after that person. Members opposite are the the Westminster tradition. They want to sit in lowest of the low. this place with sheep on their heads and fly a The inquiry failings were as follows— flag that has nothing to with this country, but claims were attacked, not the injurer's conduct; they will not look after the people who vote for the frequency of claims was ignored; claims them and who live in their electorates. Under distribution was disregarded—who was getting the law, members opposite are going to give injured and why; the costs of claims was 3006 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 ignored; and the board was shielded from approach to the redirection of the State of scrutiny. I would like to get in on that board; I Queensland. would have some fun there. I would find out The redirection was highlighted in the where the money has gone and why there FitzGerald Commission of Audit and was was a whitewash of the Division of Workplace starkly apparent to virtually all Queenslanders Health and Safety. All of those blokes ought to from those documents. We have heard a lot be strung up in Queen Street. They do not do of rhetoric from the other side of the Chamber their work at all. Premium neglect was hushed in relation to that Commission of Audit in an up. We have just been talking about who does attempt to completely discredit it across the not pay but should. State. However, the stark reality is that it has For all the mayhem that the Government been heralded throughout Australia as a is going to cause in the workplace, the inquiry document of high significance in the way that found that as few as 132 Queensland it looks at finances of public entities and public employers are responsible for 30 per cent of administration. It has been used by other all common law claims. However, the inquiry States. I believe that units of public does not address the issue and it does not administration from overseas have travelled to care. Why does the Government not do Australia to discuss the implications of that something about that? If the Government with the commissioners who conducted the knocked out 132 employers, there would not audit. be a problem. The Commission of Audit really Queensland has the highest number of highlighted the problems that Queensland injuries for male workers in Australia. What will faces in terms of its budgetary position. One of the Government do about that? Over 105,000 the big problems that we faced was that there injury claims occurred in Queensland in 1995, was a decrease in the revenue base. That is caused by 7.98 per cent of employers. because there are a lot more self-funded Therefore, 92 per cent of employers do the retirees and/or the elderly, but we also have right thing by their employees, but they are an increase in population. Therefore, whilst we going to be carved up because of 8 per cent had an increase in population and a demand of employers who do not do the right thing. for services across our vast State, we also had I would like to read something to a decreasing revenue base, but there was still Government members, and I think that they a need for the provision of services. should listen— As I have said before, people in other "So we must fly a rebel flag, States do not appreciate the distances and as others did before us; the level of infrastructure servicing that is And we must sing a rebel song, required across Queensland. We build schools And join a rebel chorus. thousands of kilometres from Brisbane, we run powerlines to them, we build rail networks, we We'll make the tyrants feel the sting, provide police stations in outlaying areas and Of those that they would throttle. in areas which are vastly more expansive than They needn't say the fault is ours, other States in their entirety, but with a smaller If blood should stain the wattle!" population and therefore smaller tax revenue. That song was written nearly 100 years ago, Therefore, we have to look at ways of but it is still pertinent if the Government does financing, balancing budgets and approaching to workers what it is threatening to do in the finances of the State in a different way. relation to common law claims. The We have to get better efficiencies out of the Government is going to make them less than system that we have. other people in this country and this State, The commission strongly recommended a because they will not be able to sue when number of reforms in and across all portfolios. someone injures them and the other person is This Government has started to adopt some at fault. That is the bottom line. of those reforms. Over the coming term of Time expired. office, and in future years in other offices after Mr WOOLMER (Springwood) our next elections, we will be looking at other (11.12 p.m.): It gives me great pleasure to rise ways of improving the State's financial position tonight to participate in the cognate based on commissions of audit. The appropriation debate for the Budget. I begin commission highlighted these problems and by congratulating the Treasurer, Mrs Joan we have set about rectifying them in this, our Sheldon, on being the first female to deliver a first Budget. Budget in Queensland and for bringing about What does the Budget really hold? The such a well thought through and balanced theme that we have used with this Budget is 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 3007

"back to basics". We sat down and thought I turn to look at the way the Labor Party through that back to basics theme. It is built has attacked this Budget. Opposition on the election platform from last year, members said that it was a big spending and because Queenslanders were crying out for a big taxing Budget. The fact is that the the provision of basic services. The structure of estimated increase in Government revenue in the Budget is based on an efficient delivery of this financial year in the entire taxes, fees and the essential services, and that is certainly fines section of the Budget—the area where seen in the Budget. average Queenslanders puts their hands in their pockets for the Government and where We will implement infrastructure for all the imposts of the Budget are economic and population growth in the areas I recorded—rose at less than half the level that have touched on. We will encourage it grew on average each year under the Labor reductions in excessive bureaucracy—and Government. The increase of $200m, or 4.8 nobody could say that we have not done that per cent, in total taxes, fees and fines revenue very efficiently. We will focus on outcomes and in the Budget compares with an average not processes. The Labor Party was increase of 10.5 per cent per year and an preoccupied with the processes, as we saw annual $312m rise under the previous Labor under the draconian outfit, the Office of Government. So much for the myth of being Cabinet, led so spectacularly and disastrously the lowest taxing State in years gone by with by the failed Kevin Rudd. The savings that small increases! have been achieved in all of those areas are to be redirected into core service delivery What has the Budget really achieved? areas. Therefore, this is a Budget of $13.5 We have come forward with a number of billion, the largest that the State has ever redirection packages for infrastructure and seen, running a cash surplus. The Treasurer core services. If one looks at the Department should be commended for bringing in the of Education, one sees that the Minister and the Treasurer have delivered a record State's finances in such a position. spending Budget of some $3.1 billion. That is The starting position was not so bright a rise of $266m, or 9.3 per cent. What does and rosy. The spectacularly unsuccessful that really mean? It means 934 more former Health Minister had a $56m recurrent teachers. It means increased guidance funding cost overrun and took money out of officers. It means more learning support time. the capital works budget to prop that up. In It means more schools. It means that there is coming to Government, there was an record spending. It means that the RAIS underlying deficit, as recognised in the scheme has been doubled or trebled over a Commission of Audit. We then suffered the number of years. These are the tangible Commonwealth payment difficulties of things which the Queensland population can $250m—we were behind the eight ball before see. That is what they called for and that is we started. Considering those things, we were why they voted us back into Government. That some $600m or $700m behind. How did we is why they are looking at the way that we are solve the problem? going to approach this in the future. We went to the Public Service and How will that translate in the different through the unnecessary programs and the areas? It means that, through programs such duplication of services. We instituted better as Building Better Schools, schools such as management processes in a lot of those Springwood High School will get $40,000 for works to upgrade their grounds. It means that areas. We came through with a 5 per cent schools in other electorates will also get those productivity and efficiency increase, which much-needed services. That is very visible, saved some $500m across Government. That necessary and welcomed by the people. It will continue to flow in years ahead. That was means that our budget for Education also one of the areas that we looked at to save moves into the service area in vocational money. The concept of these savings has training. I am happy to see in the Budget that been heralded by the business community Logan TAFE will have 102 extra places across the country. available for those students who choose not to The restructuring of other GOCs has go to university. There is a great demand for brought in approximately $200m. We took places at the Logan TAFE, because it is a fine some money back from the failed QIFF institution run by fine people. program to refinance some capital Let us look at the Health budget. The infrastructure measures. We have introduced Health budget is up 11.6 per cent, or $312m, some user charges and broadened the to $3 billion. That is the largest Health budget taxation base a little. ever delivered in this State. What does that 3008 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 really mean? It means that we can put money that area. The police will be redeployed in a into places such as the QE II Hospital to get it very smart way. The local police say to me back on line after it was so dramatically and when I speak to them quite often that just drastically run down over the years by the having more police on the job will not Labor Party. It means that we can complete necessarily mean a reduction in crime. We the Logan Hospital staged upgrades, because have to use the community policing concepts that is very necessary as well. The floor in the so that we can see the police in the suburbs, outpatients area at the Logan Hospital is a which is where they are of most benefit. Logan nice old wooden one. I was there the other City will certainly benefit from that, because night. It is rather cold there in the middle of the there is a measured demand there. Nobody night and on weekends. People rattle around would deny that there are crime problems and it is quite loud and very cold. I think we there. might also see some improvements there in Under this Government, the environment time. It is also very busy. will receive a boost in very many ways. I will The other night I was somewhat surprised quickly touch on the Daisy Hill State Forest. I to watch people utilising the Sharps needle see in the Budget there is some $350,000 exchange program. People from all walks of appropriated for works in and around the life were availing themselves of the free tracks in the Daisy Hill State Forest which quite needle exchange program. The increase in often are used by me and thousands of other the Budget will mean 540 more nurses, 80 people in the electorate. There will be some more doctors and the implementation of the more work on the Koala Centre. The car parks Health Minister's Surgery On Time program. will be brought up to a standard such that Those are very important outcomes for gravel and rocks are not thrown around Queenslanders. It also allows the people to everywhere by cars. have access to services which they have not Whilst on the issue of the Daisy Hill State had before, especially at the QE II Hospital. Forest, I wish to congratulate the ranger, John What else did the Budget deliver? In Carter, and his staff at the Koala Centre for terms of those people who are of most value looking after the place so well. They have had to our community—the seniors—we saw the some 34,000 visitors through that centre in its extension of the Seniors Card program to first 12 months of operation. It is a very good incorporate, as of December this year, those idea and it is very well patronised. I have also over the age of 65 years instead of just those spoken to the Minister, and I can assure aged 70 years and over. That is a very honourable members that there will be no fees welcome extension of this program which will charged for the use of the Daisy Hill State affect some 1,100 people in my electorate. I Forest at all. will be informing them of that. Many people All in all, we have a Budget for which the have been watching that area with delight. State has been screaming. We have a In the police budget, what have we seen? balance which covers very many portfolios. We We have seen record spending which will see that some $2.1m will be spent on the mean up to 800 more police and 400 more Challinor and Basil Stafford Centres, providing civilian staff by August 1999. We will see the people with the choice of institutional reform or introduction of speed cameras as a safety living in the community, if that is what they measure for people travelling on the highways. want. Choice is what the system is primarily With a bit of luck, they will keep the road toll about. Under the Labor Party, those centres down. Those cameras will be positioned were to close. People were going to be forced randomly. There will be new prisons. to go out into community-based care even if they did not wish to. I could never understand Mr Barton: How many more police will the basis of that argument. That was one of we get in Logan? those all or nothing arguments which was Mr WOOLMER: I take that interjection forced upon Government members by some from the member for Waterford, because I am of the bureaucracy when we were in expecting to find that out after the recruits Opposition. When I called for meetings in my from the intake have gone through the electorate and I spoke to those gentlemen, academy. I will be lobbying for more police, as they said that was an ideological policy will the member for Waterford. I identify a position of the Labor Party. They, too, need in that area as well. I suggest that we questioned the intent and the basis for should be working together on that issue abolishing two areas and forcing people into because it is very important, and the the community. In that area, we are also honourable member and I both know that spending $700,000 to set up the Children's there is a cry and a demand for more police in Commissioner. I would expect that there will 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 3009 be a high demand for that service. I know that We are putting $35m per annum into propping the Minister has a hotline open in the up this fund at the moment to keep it moving mornings on which he receives calls. forward, and we will be changing the structure We are spending $4.1m on the Juvenile of some of those things. If the workers, Justice Amendment Package, which will give especially under the auspices of the ACTU, legislative teeth to the implementation of cannot come to grips with that, the fact is that, stricter penalties for juveniles. I think we will if it was proffered out as in some other States find that that will come through in the years to the private sector, there would be a ahead. We are spending some $900,000 on completely different fund structure. upgrading urban fire services and providing I will sit down two minutes early because more firefighters in those areas. of the lateness of the hour. I know members The member for Bulimba has left the are wanting to leave. I support the Budget. I Chamber. He ran around the workers' congratulate the Executive arm of compensation argument with an extreme Government and the Treasurer on delivering passion. We have to appreciate the such a wonderful Budget that will set the path gentleman's zest in that respect. For all of the straight for this State in the future. arguments he put forward and despite his Mr ARDILL (Archerfield) (11.30 p.m.): reference to legislation from other jurisdictions The 1996-97 Budget produces no surprises and so on, the fact is that the Workers and provides no answers to the problems Compensation Fund is some $440m in the besetting Queensland and Australia as we red, and is going backwards. If the problems approach the end of the twentieth century. It of the fund are not addressed, there will be no increases the decline of the public sector and fund. It is as simple as that. There will not be a provides no hope, no incentive and no fund in another year's time. This Government encouragement to young people and no jobs. is going to support it to the tune of $35m a Another of Australia's icons is being sold year. There is overwhelming evidence to off to provide instant gratification for a suggest that there will have to be a redirection Treasurer who refuses to see the inane in that area, and that is what we are doing. stupidity of selling off an asset such as Sticking their heads in the sand was all former Suncorp, which always provides a sure and Government members did on this issue. When certain dividend—just as her disastrous push came to shove, their union mates put counterpart in Canberra, Costello, is trying to the heavy word on them and said, "You do with Telstra. Not only do assets such as cannot touch this because of the workers' these provide a handy dividend but they also rights issues." provide a yardstick for efficiency and cost- That problem was created under a effectiveness by which the private sector can previous regime which refused to address it. be judged. We are addressing the issue and, all of This year, this incompetent and hesitant sudden, everyone thinks we are the bad guys. Government—except in its vicious pouncing I find that quite ironic. If not for this on public servants—has consistently misled Government's approach, there would be no and confused the public and the media with its Workers Compensation Fund. For all of the blatantly wrong answers to questions and rhetoric, I have not heard any alternatives contradictory claims about the state of proffered. I have not heard a single alternative Queensland's economy. No Government in coming forward that will maintain the fund in a Queensland, and probably none in Australia, balanced state and/or repair the fund back to ever came to power with a better handover a more balanced state. We hear members than this Government received. It was a far saying, "Take the money out of the trust better handover than any Government should accounts." Mr De Lacy knows full well that we have received, because the Labor Treasurer are not allowed to touch the superannuation directed all of his energies to paying off the entitlements of the workers of the State. A debt of 130 years in the sure knowledge that, Government just does not do those things. As with no interest bill to pay from consolidated a State, we have never done that. When he revenue, the Government could then direct all was Treasurer, Mr De Lacy refused to take any its energy to providing the best infrastructure money out of those accounts. He used to and services in Australia. In fact, he took the borrow for capital expenditures and he would long-term view, which politicians with an eye to not borrow for recurrent expenditures. the next election hardly ever do. And it will be We have come forward with a solution a long time before it is done again, as the that will have to work. If it does not work, there impossible happened: the Opposition, by a will not be a fund in two or three years' time. process of strategies and sheer good luck and 3010 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 the strangest judicial decision in the history of section, even though it is only part of the elections, took over Government. operation, cut it off. It may mean that some This was the lowest serviced State in other organisation may have to do the job at a Australia. The Labor Government upgraded higher cost, but that does not matter. Cross- services—there was no other way to go but subsidisation must not occur. Nor does it up—but because we concentrated on good matter if the environment suffers or health economic management at the expense of the standards are lowered." If people do not expectations of our supporters, thousands of believe me, they should go overseas and see people failed to believe that the 1995 Budget the effects of Reaganomics or Thatcherism could deliver the goods, a position which only and, incidentally, read my report on my resulted from paying off our $5 billion of debt overseas trip. over the five years we were in Government. These are the types of experts who are The Opposition went one better and went on a called in to sustain an unsustainable pork-barrelling, vote-buying spree to counter argument. State Governments are there to the measured, funded promises of the provide services and to provide the Government, never expecting that it would infrastructure on which the economy can have to deliver. survive and succeed. This Budget fails the test in many ways, but principally in the efficacy of On coming to Government, the Treasurer its procedures and its spending priorities. The embarked on a process of misinformation that Government is required to provide protection there were big holes in the Labor Budget to and security for the people. It is also required justify cutbacks in services from our Budget to attend to the health needs and recreation and the coalition's promises. She has been needs of the people. The State has the shown to be completely wrong, as there is a principal role in protecting the environment surplus under any method that economists and heritage for the future of the country and and apologists could devise. She promised no generations to come. In all these areas, it is a new taxes. She promised no increases in disappointing Budget whose rhetoric is taxes. Again, she was wrong on both counts. supreme and whose expertise, understanding The Treasurer said that the Federal and sympathy are sadly lacking. Government would cut back on its share of the revenue of the State, and maintained this Some of the Ministers have good intent deceit right up to her Appropriation Speech. and energy, but Treasury and the Treasurer Wrong again! The Federal Government will prevent them from delivering to the public. increased the funding, even allowing for the The Treasurer made great play on capital public housing debacle, by at least $177m. funding being one-off but failed to signal two things. Much of this capital spending involves What do Liberal politicians do in those a period of two or three years. While the asset circumstances? They call in the clowns. They sales and raiding of funds will cover the first called in a group of economic rationalist year, no provision is made for the succeeding clowns—and all economic rationalists are years. When the assets are sold off, what will clowns, no matter who calls them in, because provide the remainder in big-Budget items they downgrade human beings. They are such as the disgraceful splurge on the Pacific vandals who would destroy all our institutions, Highway? Once a revenue-producing asset is all our treasures, all our heritage and all our sold, that revenue is also lost to recurrent hope just to see a profit made or a reduction expenditure through consolidated revenue. in the work force achieved. Their philosophy Even the Treasurer's own economic means reducing the workers and increasing rationalists advised against relying too heavily the drones. Their philosophy means reducing on revenue-producing entities. the payroll and increasing the dole payout. It means increasing the income of those with The Treasurer wants to reduce land tax. disposable income and even unneeded This is one tax that should never be surpluses and reducing the income of those eliminated, because it is probably the only on the breadline—and, of course, reducing the State tax that is not regressive. It is equitable social wage. It means disruption, disputation, and reasonable when compared with payroll hatred, violence, hopelessness, and it also tax and stamp duty. Perhaps the fact that over means loss of service to the public. one-quarter of all land tax is raised in Surfers Paradise and on the Sunshine Coast has had The clowns say, "Cut off funds to the an effect on the attitude of the Treasurer and public sector because it does not return a Premier. In education, the Budget trumpets profit, and abolish any regulation that requires provision for 1,000 new teachers when over the public sector to maintain standards. If a 300 are needed now to provide for non- certain sector does not return a profit to that contact time already agreed to and over 400 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 3011 are needed for new schools and additional the same should be done on a limited scale in enrolments which Labor planned for. urban areas. What was not said was that schools in my While this Government saves money by electorate of Archerfield and others in urban amalgamating schools, local authorities and areas are marked for closure. Acacia Ridge is private bus operators are expected to provide a suburb of some 7,000 people in the far a totally uneconomic bus service to students southern suburbs of Brisbane. It is a suburb of travelling to another school, and parents who mostly public housing and of residents who often cannot afford it are expected to pay the have purchased public housing to enable fares. Funding for education must be provided them to work in the heavy industries which because education of children equals the grew in the area in the fifties and sixties. Many prosperity of future generations. The proposal of those industries closed down in the last two to eliminate regional education offices and decades, including the GMH plant—formerly a school support centres is one of the stupid major employer. As a result, the suburb is a suggestions which this Budget will support low average income area with high unless Parliament takes action to prevent the unemployment. In 32 years, the conservative retrograde step. The school support centres State Government failed to provide any have been a great success in assisting services to that area, and it is only in the last schools in my area and in the non-urban areas six years that some social services such as to the south. Let us hope that the Minister for 60s and Better, the neighbourhood centre and Education sees the warning lights in this. He a housing advisory worker came to the suburb. certainly gave no heed of the stop light this Now the new conservative Government Parliament displayed to him over the school has decided to close their high school, which cleaners. Like many drivers in a certain has provided a most useful service to the European country, he thought that a red light suburb. This high school is one of only two in meant he had to make up his own mind on Queensland which are part of an Australian whether to stop. network providing a link into the business The Minister for Police shows a wilful community where students are given inability to observe the niceties of a democratic extensive work experience in all areas of society. He also shows an inability to industry and business. Many schools provide understand that the proposal to destroy the some work experience, but no other school in tenure of commissioned police officers will also Queensland provides the extensive training destroy the morale of the entire force except experience found at Acacia Ridge. The school those who are there for other than legitimate has been awarded an AST Foundation grant reasons. What is the point of any officer in recognition of the curriculum and extra- becoming an inspector or superintendent if curricula work done by the school. All jobs in that officer can be usurped and made industry from the shop floor to the laboratory, redundant at the end of three years? What to the office to management service are then? A roving life filling in, or VERs or the encompassed in the students' experience at sack. What a wonderful reward for effort, study companies such as BHP and many others. and achievement. This experience is invaluable in gaining employment for students who otherwise are While I deplore the wishy-washy attitude facing a life of unemployment. There are of the Minister for Natural Resources on the dozens of high schools around Queensland ruinous proposal to grow cotton in the Cooper with fewer students than the 270 at Acacia Creek Channel Country, I certainly am pleased Ridge. Why is this essential school marked for that the Government has restored the local execution by this Government? government subsidy on water facilities to what it was under Gordon Chalk in the 1970s and There are also two primary schools in the that the Minister is actually investigating water suburb which are able to provide individual resources and waste water treatment. attention to 550 students to give them a start Members of this House will remember that I in life. I make it clear that I totally oppose the have put forward support for this matter since I closure of both of these schools. Unless the became a member of the Assembly. If river Queensland Government accepts that some water can be treated for urban use in drinking, small schools should be retained in urban all waste water should be similarly treated areas to suit particular problem solving, many before being expelled into streams or the students are never going to receive the ocean. I do not suggest that it should be individual attention that they need and retreated to be used for drinking water, as deserve. After all, small schools are being viruses could still be in that water, but it can be retained in country areas for social need, and allowed to receive further natural treatment as 3010 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 the strangest judicial decision in the history of section, even though it is only part of the elections, took over Government. operation, cut it off. It may mean that some This was the lowest serviced State in other organisation may have to do the job at a Australia. The Labor Government upgraded higher cost, but that does not matter. Cross- services—there was no other way to go but subsidisation must not occur. Nor does it up—but because we concentrated on good matter if the environment suffers or health economic management at the expense of the standards are lowered." If people do not expectations of our supporters, thousands of believe me, they should go overseas and see people failed to believe that the 1995 Budget the effects of Reaganomics or Thatcherism could deliver the goods, a position which only and, incidentally, read my report on my resulted from paying off our $5 billion of debt overseas trip. over the five years we were in Government. These are the types of experts who are The Opposition went one better and went on a called in to sustain an unsustainable pork-barrelling, vote-buying spree to counter argument. State Governments are there to the measured, funded promises of the provide services and to provide the Government, never expecting that it would infrastructure on which the economy can have to deliver. survive and succeed. This Budget fails the test in many ways, but principally in the efficacy of On coming to Government, the Treasurer its procedures and its spending priorities. The embarked on a process of misinformation that Government is required to provide protection there were big holes in the Labor Budget to and security for the people. It is also required justify cutbacks in services from our Budget to attend to the health needs and recreation and the coalition's promises. She has been needs of the people. The State has the shown to be completely wrong, as there is a principal role in protecting the environment surplus under any method that economists and heritage for the future of the country and and apologists could devise. She promised no generations to come. In all these areas, it is a new taxes. She promised no increases in disappointing Budget whose rhetoric is taxes. Again, she was wrong on both counts. supreme and whose expertise, understanding The Treasurer said that the Federal and sympathy are sadly lacking. Government would cut back on its share of the revenue of the State, and maintained this Some of the Ministers have good intent deceit right up to her Appropriation Speech. and energy, but Treasury and the Treasurer Wrong again! The Federal Government will prevent them from delivering to the public. increased the funding, even allowing for the The Treasurer made great play on capital public housing debacle, by at least $177m. funding being one-off but failed to signal two things. Much of this capital spending involves What do Liberal politicians do in those a period of two or three years. While the asset circumstances? They call in the clowns. They sales and raiding of funds will cover the first called in a group of economic rationalist year, no provision is made for the succeeding clowns—and all economic rationalists are years. When the assets are sold off, what will clowns, no matter who calls them in, because provide the remainder in big-Budget items they downgrade human beings. They are such as the disgraceful splurge on the Pacific vandals who would destroy all our institutions, Highway? Once a revenue-producing asset is all our treasures, all our heritage and all our sold, that revenue is also lost to recurrent hope just to see a profit made or a reduction expenditure through consolidated revenue. in the work force achieved. Their philosophy Even the Treasurer's own economic means reducing the workers and increasing rationalists advised against relying too heavily the drones. Their philosophy means reducing on revenue-producing entities. the payroll and increasing the dole payout. It The Treasurer wants to reduce land tax. means increasing the income of those with This is one tax that should never be disposable income and even unneeded eliminated, because it is probably the only surpluses and reducing the income of those State tax that is not regressive. It is equitable on the breadline—and, of course, reducing the and reasonable when compared with payroll social wage. It means disruption, disputation, tax and stamp duty. Perhaps the fact that over hatred, violence, hopelessness, and it also one-quarter of all land tax is raised in Surfers means loss of service to the public. Paradise and on the Sunshine Coast has had The clowns say, "Cut off funds to the an effect on the attitude of the Treasurer and public sector because it does not return a Premier. In education, the Budget trumpets profit, and abolish any regulation that requires provision for 1,000 new teachers when over the private sector to maintain standards. If a 300 are needed now to provide for non- certain sector does not return a profit to that contact time already agreed to and over 400 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 3013 where real Budget interpretation ends and Announcements have also been made where politics begins. However, the Budget regarding the introduction of Keno into the offers to the people of this State a number of wider community, presumably as a revenue very clear positives. If, as the Government has generator. Yet I note that amounts have been predicted, economic growth reaches 4 per allocated to counselling services to deal with cent in the 1996-97 year, it will create, recognised social consequences. One could according to the documents, an estimated question the wisdom of expanding an activity 45,000 new jobs. I offer my congratulations on with such measurable negative social costs. that job creation because, particularly for our As to taxes—in any Budget the issue of young people, productive work and primary concern to most people is, "How will contributory dignity are a priority. Youth this Budget affect my income?" This Budget, unemployment in the Gladstone/Calliope area despite pre-election promises, does include is at approximately 33 per cent and not increases in charges which, to most people, is conducive to engendering hope. the same as increases in taxes, even if I note also for local government the technically they may be different. I increase in water and sewerage capital works acknowledge the increase of $3.60 in subsidies from 20 per cent to 40 per cent. registration fees. However, perhaps of greater Local governments, particularly rural and impact is the $3 per tyre and 10c per litre of oil regional local governments, will value that to be levied. Many people can justifiably be increase greatly, as they generally have limited critical of this increase. In the long term, a access to the high capital that new schemes great benefit to the community will accrue demand. This, in turn, may lead to extra provided that the money collected is directly employment. Many local authorities have put used to dispose of the mountain of used tyres time and energy into the re-use of effluent for and the large quantities of oil in an irrigation purposes and will appreciate the environmentally friendly manner. recognition in this area. People are becoming "Environmentally friendly" very definitely more and more water conscious, as they need includes demonstrable effect. The pile of tyres to be, and more thoughtful use of effluent or must reduce and, over time, disappear. recycling of any type can only contribute to a The national parks levy is of greater more productive future. impact to Queensland families. No fees have With regard to rural issues—for country been set, but even at $20 per adult per councils the continuing recognition of drought year—usually $40 per family—and increasing effects is essential, and this is included in the as the families get older, that is, the children Budget. For some agricultural pursuits a single become adults, this is an impost to a good year can repair much of the financial struggling family. The redeeming feature damage. For graziers, remediation is spread would be for the dollars collected to be over a larger period. Given the depressed reinvested in those areas where the dollars are prices for cattle at present, that time is taken. However, it is concerning that that may extended. not be the case. Page 83 of Budget Paper No. 2 states that the park user fees and As to workers' compensation—funding increases in camping and other user charges has been allocated to contribute to the are expected to generate approximately Workers Compensation Fund problems. I $18.4m over three years. However, it follows in continue to acknowledge those funding the document that these funds will be directed problems but also continue to be of the view towards— that the gamut of proposals only succeeds in removing any options from the worker. The improving the management of national workers are being asked to accept the parks, including the Great Sandy Region; responsibility for management problems and off-park wildlife management, including to answer for the frustration felt by improving the licensing and monitoring of Government at the high level of remuneration keepers of native fauna and flora; to lawyers, perceived illegal claims and other development of a computer database, rorts. These may be problems, but they are Wildnet, to provide information on the beyond the correction of the employee and, distribution and abundance of marine and indeed, the employer—it is a problem with the terrestrial fauna and flora; management of the workers' compensation system. A solution to the problem must be documentation of the conservation values found, but not at the risk of removing any of Torres Strait; and hope for a future for those families whose lives implementation of the Coastcare are sadly disrupted by work-based accidents. program, which provides funds to 3014 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

community groups to undertake coastal department has apparently defended the rise management projects in cooperation with by saying that most families are two-income local coastal managers. families. But in the case of overseas Whereas the responsible Minister has adoptions, where the application fee will rise given me other documents, that is what is from $53 to $200, and the assessment fee is contained in those Budget documents. Yet proposed to rise from $641 to $5,000, both the revenue is not going to be generated by parents cannot work, as the overseas child is some of those areas. If people have to pay to not allowed to be taken care of by anyone go into a national park, they want to see other than a parent. Given the relatively low improved facilities in that area. income streams, I implore the Minister for Family Services to review these increases Then, of course, there is the cigarette before they are implemented. tax—a sectional tax on a small portion of the community to pay for a hole left by the Federal There are many things that I believe are Budget. Some have said that it will discourage positive. In Family Services—I acknowledge people from smoking. I guess that, to some the many positive programs which Minister extent, it would. But I am concerned about Lingard has proposed, particularly the broken promises and the effect that such a reinforcing and empowering of the family as large increase will have on the working person the most important support for children. That is yet again. From a health perspective, it is essential. I would like to thank here groups expected to reduce the number of young who work very hard, with varying amounts of people who will commence smoking. I wish Government help, to provide support to that outcome every success. children and adults with special needs. I mention the Endeavour Foundation in my My concerns regarding producers have area and across the State; in Gladstone, the been clarified by the member for Tablelands, Port Curtis Respite Centre; those involved in who has advised that funds have been respite care at Mainstay; and individuals allocated to relieve the impact of the tax everywhere, even in their own homes, who increases on farmers in the north. Financial provide a wonderful service to their children, assistance will be available to give relief to the their loved ones and this community. A most affected farmers. Whether one likes it or number of family support workers have been not, it is a broken promise. I spoke against the allocated throughout the State. My electorate tax when it was cobbled together with alcohol has a young average age and, with that, the as a sin tax. My views remain unchanged. attendant problems of dislocation from However, I have spoken at length to the grandparents and other family support. A Treasurer, her staff and the Premier. Both the number of groups have spoken to me of the Premier and Treasurer believe that no other urgent need for a worker in the region. options exist. In relation to policing—when Premier The Premier vehemently holds the view Borbidge visited Gladstone after coming to that my non-support of the proposed tobacco Government, he was markedly outspoken tax is, in effect, non-support of Supply about the poor conditions of the police station because the revenue generation stream is so and watch-house. The Minister for Police and closely linked to the expenditure stream. I do Corrective Services has recently required that not concur. I recognise my commitment, given no person remain in a watch-house over in February, to ensure Supply. Therefore, seven days. This decision is long overdue, and unless another income stream can be I commend him for it. However, the allocation identified, I am left with little option other than of planning dollars and, importantly, to support this unjust increase. I can only subsequent construction dollars for a new apologise to those people who have written police headquarters and watch-house in and called depending on me for relief in the Gladstone is essential. I again take this matter. opportunity to reinforce the urgent need for a Another increase on which I wish to Juvenile Aid Bureau for the region given the comment is the proposed rise in adoption demonstrated levels of juvenile crime attended fees, which can be nothing but by police. Compared to similar districts in the counterproductive. Raise the cost of adoption State, my electorate should already have a and one limits the group of people able to bureau. In order to fulfil commitments made access the process. It does not reduce the for additional police, I note the funds allocated number of couples desperate for children and to the Townsville academy. Brief reference is wanting more than anything to offer a family to made in the Police Service budget to the a child. This increase will most definitely put burden that the implementation of the adoption out of the reach of many. The proposed gun legislation will bring. I urge the 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 3015

Government to deal with the root cause of rural communities ambulance officers and fire crime and violence. officers are intrinsic to the sense of safety for As to Education—$6.9 million is allocated many. I commend publicly the officers who to behaviour management in schools. I make themselves available day and night for continue to be of the view that a major the people's benefit. To them: thank you. It is contributor to lack of control is that teachers not the corporate structure that helps; it is the have lost the ability to discipline, and students people. know it. The success of the proposed Morale in the Fire Service and Ambulance Behavioural Management Program is yet to service, and in all Government departments, is be seen; however, I remain of the opinion that a concern to me. It is not expensive to build relatively simple solutions will be necessary morale: talk, listen, have a cup of tea and and would be effective. The planning for the build trust. Endless reviews, committees and Tannum High School continues with a great changes of structure can create a problem, deal of enthusiasm on the part of all residents not a solution. of the Boyne/Tannum area. My thanks to the Minister for recognising the needs of the area I note the legislation for the Children's in his decision. A number of other primary Commissioner. Whilst that legislation does not schools have also received funding for comply with the resolution that was passed buildings, and that is accepted with gratitude. through Parliament, I hope that the defined need to identify areas of paedophilia and As to training—I commend the Minister for other concerns in that area are not swallowed recognising the value of apprenticeships. For up in a bureaucratic quagmire. I commend the many young people, and the not so young, an Minister for the Juvenile Justice legislation that apprenticeship is exactly what they want and passed recently. In public meetings held in my can succeed in. I draw to the Minister's electorate the issues have, in large measure, attention the new impediment to Group been covered by that legislation. Apprenticeship Schemes, which are now being Within the Budget papers there is required to fund workers' compensation allocation for water provision. That is essential. payments before the funds are raised. Proposed damming of the Calliope River in my Previously, groups could pay their premium in region does not have general community arrears, which gave them the opportunity to support. Much greater support exists for the accumulate funds from employers accurately. increase of the Awoonga Dam for the To my knowledge, no apprentice schemes provision of water in the future. That has been defaulted, yet recent decisions to require up- historically accepted. To a great extent land front payment mean that the scheme in my has been acquired and the project can area must find $40,000-plus and subsequently try to assess its obligations and charge proceed. Additional costs are associated with employers on an assessment-type basis. The the railway line. The social impact of the previous scheme worked well, without default, proposed Calliope Dam, the impact on fishing and should be returned. and the impact on the environment are immeasurable. As to Health—Gladstone has received a number of applications for the As to Transport—funds allocated for the gynaecologist/obstetrician position and the upgrading of the main road into Gladstone are specialist physician position for the region. necessary now and have been allocated, for Those applicants have spoken with the which I am thankful. That is a dangerous hospital administration. Again, I thank the bottleneck for the growing traffic in the Minister for his care for our community for such developing suburbs west of the city. Many a basic issue. meetings have been held with the Minister over concerns with Queensland Rail, and I am We continue with problems of waiting lists looking forward to those concerns being met for dental, optical and surgical procedures. over time. Physiotherapy and allied community health needs also continue to be priorities. Finally, the CJC has been commented on Rockhampton mental health spending will many times. Today allegations have been assist our district, with the flow-on from the made regarding a central member of the CJC. Budget yet to be measured. Given the high visibility of the commission and the role that it plays, it is imperative that this In the area of Emergency Services I note matter is investigated quickly, objectively and the intention to corporatise the Ambulance decisively. and Fire Services. I am unsure of the benefits to the community, and indeed to the service, Mr Barton: By the parliamentary of this restructuring. Time will tell. However, for Committee for Criminal Justice. 3016 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996

Mrs CUNNINGHAM: The investigation A three-year averaging of land values on should be by an objective group. which land tax is based will be introduced to Budget time is a period of concern for smooth out sudden changes to the tax in business, industry and the individual. This times of changing land values. That measure Budget has brought many advantages, but will be introduced during 1996-97 to apply to also its share of new financial cost. 1997-98 land tax notices and will provide a Government's primary responsibility is to work benefit to land tax payers of some $13m in for the betterment of the people whom we 1997-98. As we all know, whether stated now serve. As time progresses, I trust our in leases or not, that land tax provision does community will see on-the-ground benefits: apply to rents to small businesses, and that improvements in their standard of living and affects their end productivity. So, by reducing improved access to fundamental services. that tax, we will make small businesses more profitable and more able to employ more Hon. J. M. SHELDON (Caloundra— people. Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for The Arts) (12.06 a.m.), in reply: I would like to As to stamp duty concessions on thank all honourable members for their mortgages—in May 1996, the Government contributions to this Budget debate, introduced legislation to provide stamp duty particularly the Government members, who relief for home owners refinancing their have worked very diligently with myself and mortgage and an increase in the mortgage with the Cabinet Ministers in producing the duty exemption levels for first-home buyers. A policies, the direction and, ultimately, of new mortgage duty exemption of $100,000 course, the figures for our Budget. I thank applies for refinancing of a mortgage for a them very much for their input. It was a pity principal place of residence and the mortgage that all we really heard from the Opposition duty exemption for first-home buyers was was negativity; there was nothing constructive. increased by $30,000 to $100,000, effective I think that that is of considerable concern to from 1 July 1996. Overall revenue from taxes, the community. Opposition members were not fees and fines is expected to grow from really debating the Bill; they were $4,165m to $4,364m, which is an increase of endeavouring to be negative on any issue that 4.8 per cent in nominal terms or 0.3 per cent the Government may raise. in real per capita terms. I will cover a few points that were made Growth is concentrated in four areas. The generally. This is not a taxing Budget, it is a payroll tax net is up 3.7 per cent, but that is a tax concession Budget. In aggregate terms, fall of 1.2 per cent in real per capita terms. The 1996-97 puts the brakes on taxes in this tobacco franchise fees are up 8.8 per cent, or State. The State tax burden per capita grew 4.3 per cent in real per capita terms. May I by 40 per cent in real terms between 1989-90 add that we have clearly said that the tobacco and 1995-96. That is an average of 5.7 per franchise fee will go to health. This year we cent per annum in real per capita terms. have increased spending on health by more Those were the years when Labor was in than $315m. Government. No growth will occur in real per Mrs EDMOND: I rise to a point of order. capita terms in 1996-97, despite increases in Members of the Treasurer's back bench have debits tax and tobacco tax to the average already pointed out that most of that increase levels of other States. is owing to differences in accounting. I will point out some significant tax concessions provided in the Budget. The tax Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no point free threshold for payroll tax will be increased of order. by $50,000 to $800,000 from 1 January 1997, Mrs SHELDON: That is absolute thereby providing relief to the business rubbish and the member knows it. community and providing further incentive for A Government member: It is employment creation. This payroll tax surprising she is still awake. threshold increase will cost some $3.3m in 1996-97. Over 4,000 taxpayers will pay Mrs SHELDON: May I add that it is a reduced or no payroll tax. Less than 5 per cent pity that the member is still awake, because of employers in Queensland will remain liable we are not getting anything of much benefit for payroll tax. We believe that it is vital that from her. As I was saying, some of this money the coalition deliver what it said it would deliver will go to help provide programs to educate in relation to payroll tax. Obviously that our young people on the dangers of smoking, supplies jobs for our people and particularly what smoking does to their lungs, and how it jobs for our young. can increase the cost of providing health care. 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 3017

The debits tax is up 23.7 per cent or 19 Mrs SHELDON: The member said it. per cent in real per capita terms, and fines and Mr BEATTIE: I did not. That is fees are up 8.5 per cent or 4 per cent in real outrageous! per capita terms. Other taxes, fees and fines are expected to grow by 0.5 per cent, which is Mrs SHELDON: I wish the Leader of a fall of 4 per cent in real per capita terms. the Opposition would withdraw. With payroll tax, a large proportion of the Mr SPEAKER: Order! The honourable tax base is exempt under current thresholds Leader of the Opposition believes that he has and the threshold will be raised from $750,000 been misquoted and he has asked for a to $800,000 from 1 January 1997. Growth in withdrawal. the small-business sector will not be reflected Mrs SHELDON: Mr Speaker, seeing in increased taxation revenue. that the Leader of the Opposition does not The tobacco franchise fee rise reflects an want to back up what he said when he was increase in the rate from 75 per cent to 100 sitting down there, I will withdraw. per cent. With the debits tax, the rise reflects I turn now to outlays growth. A the increase in rates to levels applying in comparison of growth rates over time is southern States. With fees and fines, the complex because of significant compositional increase mainly reflects higher traffic fines on changes that occur from year to year. account of the introduction of speed cameras, Mr Elder: You're an outrageous liar. increases in motor vehicle registration fees, including $3.60 to fund significant Mr SPEAKER: Order! The member for enhancements to customer service delivery Capalaba! That is unparliamentary language. activities, and new environmental levies on Mrs SHELDON: Yes. Mr Speaker, I tyres and oil to fund waste management would like the member to withdraw that. I find activities, which are very much needed in this it offensive and I ask the member to withdraw State. We in the coalition have made a it. definite effort to try to reduce this pollution, Mr ELDER: Mr Speaker, with due which the previous Government would not do, deference to you, I will withdraw. and did not do. Mrs SHELDON: These can include With other taxes, fees and fines, growth is factors such as the transfer of functions to and only 0.5 per cent, or minus 4 per cent in real from the Commonwealth, classification per capita terms. The major component of this changes, the movement of Trust Funds into category is stamp duty, which responds more the Consolidated Fund and changed to the asset price cycle and activity in the accounting arrangements. The most housing market than to the GSP. consistent time series data available are the I am very pleased to hear the Leader of Government finance statistics, but even these the Opposition saying that he does support include a number of factors which make valid the levy on tyres and the actions of the comparisons difficult, such as the Government in imposing a levy on oil. I thank reclassification of Higher Education him for coming around and realising what an Contribution Scheme revenue as a negative excellent policy it was. outlay in 1993-94—of course, this was Mr BEATTIE: I rise to a point of order. I previously a revenue item—growth in CSO seek a withdrawal. That is absolutely payments to electricity and rail; declining outrageous. I never said such a thing. interest payments; and incorporation of some housing transactions into the general Mrs SHELDON: Yes, he did, when he Government sector. Because of these and was sitting right there. other factors, it is difficult to prepare a strictly Mr BEATTIE: I beg your pardon. comparable time series to analyse outlays Mrs SHELDON: The member can stand growth. Accordingly, growth in 1996-97 is best up and say what he likes. analysed in terms of the underlying data included in the Budget papers for the Mr BEATTIE: I beg your pardon. That is Consolidated Fund. In this regard, for the outrageous. Consolidated Fund, underlying growth on Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no 1995-96 actual outlays is as follows: 5 per cent debate. What is the member's point of order? for recurrent outlays, that is, recurrent services, Mr BEATTIE: I seek a withdrawal. I debt servicing and grants and subsidies; 17.8 have been grossly and dishonestly per cent for capital outlays; and 6.7 per cent misrepresented and I seek those comments to for total outlays. On the same basis, be withdrawn. underlying revenue growth on 1995-96 actual 3018 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 revenue is as follows: 1.8 per cent for I would like to now comment on Commonwealth payments; 4.8 per cent for Commonwealth payments. Growth in taxes, fees and fines; 17.7 per cent for other Commonwealth payments in 1996-97 is only State sources of revenue; and 6.8 per cent for 1.8 per cent on a comparable basis, that is, aggregate revenue. after adjusting the 1995-96 payments to The underlying growth adjusts for base include the CSHA funds for housing, which are effects caused by the inclusion for the first included in the 1996-97 numbers. In dollar time in 1996-97 of the core housing program terms, the increase is only $90m, or a fall in within the Consolidated Fund, new real per capita terms of some 3 per cent. arrangements for dividends and community I would like to speak on infrastructure service obligations for Q-Rail and carryover funding. Funding to meet the first-year cost of expenditure commitments from 1995-96. the $1.6 billion Infrastructure Rejuvenation The underlying growth in real per capita Package of $214m is being provided from outlays is due to a major increase in capital financial assets which are available to the outlays and for infrastructure that is needed for State, uncommitted balances in the QIFF trust core service delivery, particularly in areas such and the net proceeds from the already sold as hospitals, law and order, schools and State gas pipeline. Funding for this capital transport. expenditure is coming from one-off funding sources. Funding is not being sourced in Much has been said about the 1996-97 from the sale of income-producing Treasurer's advance. Each year, an allocation assets. One-off funds are not being used to needs to be set aside to provide funding for a finance the recurrent Budget. range of issues that have not been able to be finalised for the Budget and will be addressed I turn to returns from GOEs. The during the course of the year, such as the Government has been very keen to ensure outstanding legal liability claims, that returns to Government from GOEs in the implementation of competition policy, funding form of dividends and tax equivalents are for replacement of specialised heavy vehicles, commercially based and do not jeopardise the and major project facilitation costs. Further, no ongoing health of such bodies. Dividend and provision has been made in departmental tax equivalent payments from GOEs in total allocations for wage increases under new are expected to increase substantially in 1996- enterprise bargaining agreements which will be 97. The total increase in dividends and tax put in place during 1996-97. This contrasts equivalents amounts to some $400m in 1996- with last year's Budget, where enterprise 97, $463m in 1995-96, and an estimated bargaining wage increases were largely known $862m in 1996-97, or an increase of 86 per and could be factored into departmental cent. allocations. The main reason for the increase in In addition, provision has been set aside dividend receipts by the Consolidated Fund in for the cost of the provision of six weeks' paid 1996-97 over 1995-96 is that 1995-96 was the maternity leave together with a range of first year in which all the major GOEs were current outstanding non-enterprise bargaining subject to the formal corporatisation policy for award variations. Also included is prudent the full year. Prior to corporatisation, dividend contingency allocations, which need to be policy tended to operate on a case-by-case made for other outlays which may emerge basis. Accordingly, 1996-97 is the first year during the year, such as provision for further when full year returns from corporatisation will drought assistance in the unfortunate event of flow to the Consolidated Fund, with the major prolonged drought conditions. increases coming from— Mr Barton interjected. electricity corporatisation—an increase of Mrs SHELDON: I realise that the $113m; member does not think that our rural people Queensland Rail—an increase of $208m; should be helped in times of drought. However, we in the coalition do. Also, provision and all other (ports, forestry, etc.)—an is made for natural disaster relief and increase of $77m. restoration costs. Each year, Queensland is The expected increase in total subject to cyclone and flood damage, which in distributions to Government in 1996-97 must 1995-96 cost around $33m. Accordingly, the be considered in the context of the major Treasurer's advance provision is entirely community service obligation payments in appropriate and prudent, given the 1996-97 to Queensland Rail and the circumstances this year. Queensland electricity supply industry. The 13 Sep 1996 Appropriation Bills 3019 increase in CSO payments in 1996-97 and State labour market programs. Further, amounts to some $175m. labour market programs are essentially a I turn now to the Environmental Franchise Commonwealth responsibility and the State Scheme. The Environmental Franchise should not be required to pick up the tab when Scheme fees for motorbikes, cars and light the Commonwealth determines it is going to commercial tyres, and for oil, have been set at reduce spending in this area. Evaluation of a level that attempts to capture the costs of existing labour market programs indicates that inappropriate disposal. However, the fees for alternative strategies may be required to trucks, tractors and heavy earth-moving tyres improve long-term job prospects of the young have been set at less than the full costs of unemployed. inappropriate disposal to provide time for This Government's key focus is to provide affected industries—which have their greatest effective assistance by creating a business impact in rural Queensland—to develop some environment which is conducive to options for ecologically sustainable disposal of employment growth. Measures include— these tyres. It has also been claimed that the providing appropriate tax incentives for environmental franchise fees on oil are a employment creation; including Clayton's fuel tax. However, there will be no maintenance of payroll tax rebates for fee on 2-stroke oil, oil used in energy generation or grease. This is a sensible, price- apprentices, trainees and young based scheme overcoming a real waste unemployed and increasing the tax-free disposal problem and is put in place to threshold for payroll tax; maintain a clean environment for future developing a flexible industrial relations generations to which the coalition Government environment which frees up employers is committed. and workers to negotiate productive, The Remote Area Incentives Scheme has innovative work arrangements; and had some comment. Suggestions have been providing training opportunities to enable made by the member for Fitzroy that the the unemployed to gain marketable skills. reference to a $5.6m Remote Area Incentives Training is a State responsibility and this Scheme for Education overstates actual Budget will increase training funds by around funding in Budget papers by $1.1m. The key $30m in a full year. The additional 16,270 points are that the ongoing funding available training places subsequently generated will for the RAIS is $2.2m in recurrent funds for enable young unemployed to gain marketable employee benefits such as study incentives skills to assist them in gaining a place in the and travel and additional remote area leave workforce. This Government's $4 billion Capital entitlements and $1.1m allocation within the Works Program, which includes a $1.6 billion department's capital program for employee Special Infrastructure Rejuvenation Program, housing benefits. The 1996-97 Budget will provide a shot in the arm for the enhanced this level of existing funding by Queensland economy and will create around $2.3m, bringing total RAIS funding to $5.6m. 44,000 jobs. In addition, further funding is provided for emergent leave for teachers in remote areas. The State's fiscal contribution of $114.2m This additional funding is around $1m per is to be offset against Commonwealth and annum. State Housing Agreement block assistance contributions in 1996-97. A sum of $84.2m will Suggestions have been made that the be provided from the Consolidated Fund to sacking of youth unemployment workers offset this reduction in 1996-97. Program shows a disregard by Government in providing outlays within the Queensland Housing assistance to young people when Government Commission Fund in 1996-97 for public should be taking up the gauntlet on behalf of housing activities are $338.3m, compared with the young unemployed. There are a few key actual program outlays of $370.9m in 1995- points that I would like to make. The 96, the difference essentially reflecting the net Government is not ignoring the plight of the reduction of $30m in Commonwealth funding. young unemployed. The 1996-97 Budget has been structured to improve their job prospects Treasury forecasts the State by providing targeted initiatives which are unemployment rate in 1996-97 to be 9.3 per assessed as leading more directly to improved cent, compared with a national average of 8.5 long-term employment prospects. The per cent. This is due in part to Queensland's National Commission of Audit and an relatively high participation rate and continued independent review commissioned by the high levels of interstate migration, which is Queensland Government highlighted that concentrated in prime working age groups. duplication existed between Commonwealth Employment is forecast to grow by 2.5 per 3020 Appropriation Bills 13 Sep 1996 cent in 1996-97. This compares with a national the previous Government's initiatives in employment growth forecast of 1.5 per cent. this area have continued to be fully Nonetheless, over the year to the June quarter supported; 1997, employment is expected to grow by an allocation of $4m has been provided around 3.0 per cent, with an estimated for the Computers in Schools initiative in additional 45,000 jobs being created in 1996-97; and Queensland. Forecast business growth for 1996-97 is 9 $22.2m has been provided for continued per cent, compared with a national forecast of implementation of the Schools 14 per cent. This figure of 9 per cent needs to Management Information System. be viewed in the context of the relatively In addition, the coalition Government has strong business investment growth in enhanced the provision of information Queensland of 12.4 per cent in 1995-96 and technology in schools in the 1996-97 Budget 30.1 per cent in 1994-95 respectively, as follows— compared with national business investment growth rates of 9.7 per cent in 1995-96 and $7.2m for a new School Technology 17.1 per cent in 1994-95. Further strong Infrastructure Program; and growth in business investment is expected in $2m for the new Global Classroom New South Wales, reflecting the construction initiative to allow schools to commence of facilities for the 2000 Olympics. access to on-line information services I would like to comment on the 1995-96 such as the Internet. Labor funding of the deficit. The 1995-96 I would like to comment on the increase in Budget was framed on the use of $185m in nursing staff. It is far from clear how the one-off funding sources to balance the Opposition can support its claim that there will ongoing Budget. The actual result in 1995-96 be fewer nurses in 1996-97 than under was the use of some $180m as follows— funding levels endorsed by Labor. This the run down of Consolidated Fund Government has as its priority in health the opening balance of $45m; improvement of delivery of core public health the draw down of Trust Fund balances of services. Where savings have been identified $50m; in Queensland Health, they have been in non- core, support services and administrative one-off funding from proceeds of the areas such as the regional health authorities. Electricity Corporation of $85m. Not only have there not been any cuts to On a no-policy charge basis, this $180m deficit existing service delivery areas under this in 1995-96 increases to a funding gap of Budget, but the Government has also $240m in 1996-97. announced a number of new initiatives which I would like to comment on police will improve services in a number of areas, numbers. The Opposition keeps raising including: opening wards at the Royal questions on what is happening with police Brisbane and Gold Coast Hospitals; increasing numbers. I am only too pleased to respond. the staffing at the emergency department of Police numbers are being significantly Cairns Base Hospital; increasing the number enhanced above levels funded in the Forward of cardiac procedures at the Prince Charles Estimates by Labor. The Opposition endorsed Hospital; increasing mental health in-patient funds of $23.9m over the triennium services at Nambour, Rockhampton and Royal commencing in 1996-97. This compares with Brisbane Hospitals; and expanding the range triennium funds of $75.7m approved by the of services provided by Queen Elizabeth II coalition Government in the 1996-97 Jubilee Hospital. All of these initiatives involve Budget—an increase of almost 217 per cent! the employment of additional doctors, nurses In 1996-97 alone, we have doubled the and health professionals to expand or funding commitment of the previous enhance provision of core public health Government from $4.3m to $8.5m. The services. funding increase approved in the 1996-97 I would like to conclude by commenting Budget is consistent with our commitment to on the disgraceful state of the Workers deliver an additional 2,780 police by 2005, Compensation Fund. bringing total police strength to 9,100. Questions have been asked about the Mrs Edmond interjected. fate of the Technology in Schools Program. Mrs SHELDON: The member for Mount Key points are— Coot-tha was certainly involved in this debacle. 13 Sep 1996 Special Adjournment 3021

On current estimates, the Workers Reference to Estimates Committees Compensation Fund is in the red to the tune Mr SPEAKER: In accordance with the of $441m. The Government has committed Sessional Orders adopted by the House on 3 nearly $40m each year for three years to this September 1996, the Appropriation fund. That money could well have gone into (Parliament) Bill (No. 2) and the Appropriation services that were really needed in this State. Bill (No. 2) are referred to the Estimates Instead, we have had to put that money into committees for consideration and report by 8 doing the Government's bit to try to help the October 1996. Workers Compensation Fund get back in the black to ensure that when our workers are injured there is a fund that can pay for them. SPECIAL ADJOURNMENT As I said, this money could well have gone into supplying very important services that Mr FITZGERALD (Lockyer—Leader of were needed in this State. Instead, we have Government Business) (12.33 a.m.): I move— had to put money into the fund, which was "That the House, at its rising, do allowed to get into such a disgraceful state by adjourn until 9.30 a.m. on Tuesday, 8 the member for Mount Coot-tha and the October 1996." member for Yeronga. That point needs to be very clearly made. Motion agreed to. Motion agreed to. The House adjourned at 12.33 a.m. (Saturday). 3022 Questions on Notice 13 Sep 1996

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE (1) Will he provide details of Race Club 627.School Cleaning Services expenditure in the same form as Mr Goss requires of the QPC and include details of the Mr BREDHAUER asked the Minister for cost of Committee hospitality, entertainment, Education (6/8/96)— travel and sponsorship related expenses With reference to his broken election promise in incurred in 1993-94, 1994-95 and 1995-96 by sacking 5000 school cleaners including those in the following major clubs: QTC, GCTC, SCTC, many rural and remote areas like Cape York ITC, TTC? Peninsula, the Torres Strait and the Gulf— (2) Will he confirm that Mr Goss' question was How does he intend that cleaning in remote schools sponsored by QTC Chairman, Mr Peter with no contract cleaners will be managed? Gallagher who, since being sacked as Chairman of the QPC on 1 April 1992, is well known to be Mr Quinn (10/9/96): The issue of cleaning in a revenge seeker and vociferous critic of the remote schools is being negotiated presently by the control body, the establishment of which took Department of Education and members of the away from his club the power they had Australian Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous previously enjoyed? Workers Union. Mr Cooper (10/9/96): The attached document will provide details on the nature of this negotiation. (1) Information requested is in the form of letters from the clubs referred to, and also from the Brisbane Turf Club, copies of which are tabled. The 635.School Cleaning Services information provided by the clubs in response to Mr Mr SMITH asked the Minister for Education Hayward's question is not as comprehensive as that (6/8/96)— furnished by the Queensland Principal Club, a statutory body established under the Racing and With reference to the fact that 92 per cent of the Betting Act 1980. While a statutory body is budget for school cleaning is spent on wages for governed by the Financial Administration and Audit cleaning staff and given his announcement that Act 1977, it is apparent from the detail provided that 40 per cent of the cleaning budget will be slashed— race clubs do not maintain records which can readily (1) What guarantee will he give that cleaning hours be accessed to provide a breakdown in expenditures in schools will not be reduced and that health as sought in the question. Furthermore, informal and hygiene standards will be maintained? advice from Crown Law to the Office of Racing is (2) How many people will cease to be employed by that as these clubs are not units of public Q-Clean in the Townsville/Thuringowa area in administration no legal obligation exists for them to the category of (a) full time and (b) part time? comply with any request for information on club expenditures. Efforts to seek clarification from (3) In the electorate of Townsville will he guarantee individual clubs of the information provided may there will be no reduction of hours in any therefore be unproductive in terms of both the likely school? accuracy and reliability of such information and the (4) In view of the reduction of hygiene standards absence of any legal basis on which to direct that it experienced in southern States as a result of be supplied. contract cleaning, how can he guarantee there (2) I am not in a position to confirm that the question won't be a similar drop in Queensland? on notice asked by the Member for Aspley, Mr John Mr Quinn (10/9/96): The issues raised in this Goss, was sponsored by the Queensland Turf Club question are now a matter of negotiation between Chairman, Mr Peter Gallagher. the Department of Education and members of the I have no knowledge of the process which prompted Australian Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous the question from Mr Goss neither do I have any Workers Union. knowledge of any third party involvement. The attached document will provide details on the nature of this negotiation. 644.State Debt

Mr De LACY asked the Deputy Premier, 639. Queensland Principal Club; Mr P. Treasurer and Minister for The Arts (7/8/96)— Gallagher What is the net Queensland debt as of 30 June 1990, Mr HAYWARD asked the Minister for Police 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994 and 1995 (est.) on the and Corrective Services and Minister for Racing following basis, (a) in the normal way, including (6/8/96)— superannuation assets and (b) excluding With reference to a recent question on notice from superannuation assets? the Member for Aspley, John Goss to the Minister Mrs Sheldon (6/9/96): As the honourable for Police, Corrective Services and Racing which member was Treasurer up until February '96, he requested the Minister to table comprehensive would have access to all relevant data in his records. details of expenses incurred by the QPC Committee, in particular those incurred at the Brisbane Hilton Other data concerning State debt will be revealed in Hotel— the '96-'97 budget which I will deliver on Tuesday. 13 Sep 1996 Questions on Notice 3023

645.Commission of Audit same level of work as they have come to expect in Mr HAMILL asked the Deputy Premier, the past? Treasurer and Minister for The Arts (7/8/96)— Mr Connor (6/9/96): There are no plans to With reference to her statement in Parliament on 7 change policy where it relates to schedule of rates August that the Fitzgerald Commission of Audit contracts. report confirmed that the State Budget was in deficit and had an underlying deficit on a cash accounting 651.Health Department, Capital Works Projects basis— Mr BRISKEY asked the Deputy Premier, Will she indicate precisely where in the report these Treasurer and Minister for The Arts (7/8/96)— statements were made? What is the total of Queensland Government debt Mrs Sheldon (6/9/96): The Commission of raised to fund health capital works as at 30 June Audit's findings on the estimated accrual Budget 1990, including debt not specifically allocated to the result for 1995-96 are set out in Chapter 4 of its Health Department in the budget papers but raised report. for these purposes? The Commission's report did not include an estimate Mrs Sheldon (6/9/96): Details of State of the Consolidated Fund cash result for 1995-96, Government Debt for 1990 can be found on page because of the shortcomings of this measure—as set 201 of the Treasurer's Annual Statement for that out on page 87 of the Report. year. This shows that Debt serviced by the then In order to calculate this accrual result, the Consolidated Revenue Fund amounted to Commission had to take into account several one-off $4,156.5M. Debt serviced from other sources items to come to its results. Applying these same totalled $5,128M. In total, State Government debt at adjustments to the Consolidated Fund results in a 30 June 1990 totalled $9,284.7M. cash operating deficit for the Fund. 652.Incorp; Deeragun State High School 647.Cloncurry Hospital Mr McELLIGOTT asked the Minister for Mr McGRADY asked the Minister for Health Public Works and Housing (7/8/96)— (7/8/96)— With reference to his determination that Townsville With reference to the Cloncurry Hospital and health based contractor, Incorp, did not have the facilities in that town— "appropriate financial capacity" to be awarded the Will he detail the staff situation at that hospital and contract to build the Deeragun High School despite what actions he is taking to improve facilities in this the fact that this tender price was $50,000 lower than growing community? Brisbane firm Contrapac and as this is a clear case of discrimination against the North Queensland Mr Horan (6/9/96): There is presently a full-time construction industry— relieving surgeon from Mount Isa Hospital resident at Cloncurry Hospital. The Mount Isa District Health (1) Will he spell out the circumstances under which Service is actively seeking to recruit two permanent North Queensland firms will receive equal full-time doctors for Cloncurry Hospital, one of which consideration with southern competitors, on will fill the position of Medical Superintendent. It is major projects? anticipated that the positions will be filled within (2) What are the arrangements for damages in the three months. event that this 34-week job is not completed on A master plan has been completed for the time? redevelopment of Cloncurry Hospital. The recovery (3) Is the contract amount to be increased to meet area, nurses stations, accident and emergency area overtime payments to enable the school to and some staff facilities will be upgraded. open on time in 1997? Additionally, a new ambulance station will be Mr Connor (6/9/96): constructed on the hospital site. (1) There is no discrimination between suppliers. Approval has been given to rebuild the private Unlike the previous Labor Government we will not doctors surgery in Cloncurry to provide consulting contract triple bankrupts like G J Constructions that rooms for two practitioners. Other health services in will force subcontractors to the wall when they don't the local community will be enhanced to support the get paid. needs of the growing community. (2) The contract conditions contain provisions for the application of liquidated damages for late 650.Schedule of Rates Contracts completion by the contractor. Mr MULHERIN asked the Minister for Public (3) There is no requirement at this time for the Works and Housing (7/8/96)— contract to be varied to enable the school to open With reference to the decision to transfer schedule on time for 1997. of rates contracts from the Department of Housing to the Department of Public Works— 661.Ambulance Service Will he give a guarantee to schedule of rates Mr J. H. SULLIVAN asked the Minister for contractors who have accepted a 12-month Emergency Services and Minister for Sport extension on their contracts that they will receive the (7/8/96)— 3024 Questions on Notice 13 Sep 1996

With reference to the Queensland Ambulance 664.Cairns Base Hospital Service— Mr BREDHAUER asked the Minister for Health (1) How many auxiliary ambulance officers are (7/8/96)— currently performing duties with the Queensland Ambulance Service? With reference to specialist services at the Cairns Base Hospital— (2) At what centres are these auxiliaries stationed? (1) Is it true that Cairns Base Hospital is without a (3) What are the conditions regarding proximity to neurologist at present? workplace which currently apply to these auxiliaries? (2) What arrangements are being made to recruit a full-time neurological specialist and when does (4) Is this under review; if so, when will the result he anticipate making any such appointment? of this review be known? (3) In the absence of a neurologist at the Cairns Mr Veivers (6/9/96): Base Hospital, what interim arrangements have (1) The Queensland Ambulance Service does not been made to ensure that the people living in have any auxiliary officers. The term auxiliary is used this region in need of specialist neurology in the Queensland Fire Service to define firefighters services receive the treatment they need? who are paid only for the part time hours they work. (4) How much recurrent monies have been set The Queensland Ambulance Service does have aside for the position in question? Honorary Ambulance Officers and there are currently 342 deployed across Queensland. Mr Horan (6/9/96): (2) I have included for tabling, a list of the Honorary (1 & 3) A consultant neurologist is employed to visit Officer staff establishment for the State, including Cairns Base Hospital, performing one session per their station of deployment. fortnight for both inpatients and outpatients. General physicians provide appropriate complementary As you can see from the list, Honorary Ambulance services to meet additional demand on an ongoing Officers are located in all sections of the State and basis. Occasionally, superspecialist neurology should be commended for their civic duty and services are required. In these cases, patients are dedication of service to the Queensland community. referred to Brisbane in line with best clinical practice. My department recognises the vital role they play and the Commissioner of the QAS informs me that (2 & 4 ) I am advised that current levels of service the QAS is committed to the continual educational demand does not justify recruitment of a full-time program for Honorary Ambulance Officers. Honorary neurological specialist. However, given the status of Ambulance Officers can complete the Associate Cairns and district as one of Queensland's key Diploma of Applied Science (Ambulance) and growth areas, I have directed that this situation be become a Qualified Ambulance Officer. The subject to continual review. Commissioner also informs me that recruitment for Honorary Ambulance Officers occurs throughout the year as suitable applicants apply to the QAS. 667.Queensland Health (3) The Queensland Ambulance Service does not Mrs EDMOND asked the Minister for Health require any of its staff to live in any proximity to their (7/8/96)— place of work, the same is true for Honorary With reference to his answer to a series of issues Ambulance Officers. There are many examples of relating to possible job losses in Queensland Health where Officers live in neighbouring towns or outside as a result of public sector cut backs, and the township. notwithstanding the fact that many temporary and (4) There is currently no review being undertaken in contract appointments are not necessarily renewed relation to the present conditions. and that many are partly or fully funded by the Commonwealth, they are still positions attached to Queensland Health either in Corporate Office or in 662.Youth Employment the community or district— Mr T. B. SULLIVAN asked the Deputy (1) How many temporary or contract appointments Premier, Treasurer and Minister for The Arts existed in Queensland Health prior to the (7/8/96)— establishment of District Health Services? (1) Did the Coalition, on 3 July 1995, promise to (2) How many temporary or contract appointments create 3,500 new public payroll jobs? are currently attached to Queensland Health? (2) Will this initiative cost up to $50m to introduce? (3) How many of these temporary or contract (3) Will this promise be implemented; if so, when? appointments are funded entirely by the Commonwealth at present? Mrs Sheldon (6/9/96): The Coalition espouses a range of policies designed to combat youth (4) How many of these temporary or contract unemployment. appointments are currently funded solely by In line with this, the Coalition budget will contain Queensland Health? measures designed to improve employment (5) How many of these temporary or contract prospects to young Queenslanders. These will be appointments are jointly funded by Queensland revealed when I present the budget on Tuesday. Health and the Commonwealth? 13 Sep 1996 Questions on Notice 3025

Mr Horan (6/9/96): The Staff Profile 671.Hospitals, Recurrent Expenditure Information System inherited from Labor provides a Mr HAYWARD asked the Minister for Health snapshot of staff numbers (headcount only) on a (7/8/96)— quarterly basis. It produces figures which are based (1) Will he detail the recurrent expenditure for year on data where 839 positions cannot be identified ended 30 June 1996 for the following hospitals: against a funding source. The information provided (a) Cairns Base, (b) Royal Brisbane, (c) Princess to me is, therefore, qualified by the reliability of this Alexandra, (d) Royal Women's, (e) Caboolture, System. Given this, I am advised that: (f) Toowoomba, (g) Bundaberg, (h) Townsville, (1) 3634 temporary employees were identified in (i) Prince Charles, (j) Gold Coast and (k) Mount Queensland Health as at May 1996. Isa? (2) A snapshot to be undertaken in September 1996 (2) Was the recurrent expenditure adequate for will provide new District Health Service figures. The those hospitals? Corporate Office figure is currently 91 (end August 1996). Mr Horan (6/9/96): (3) As at May 1996, 215 employees were in (1) Recurrent expenditure for year ended 30 June Commonwealth funded positions. The Corporate 1996 for the selected hospitals was as follows: Office figure is currently 27 (end August 1996). (a) Cairns Base—66,063,000 (4) As at May 1996, 3167 temporary employees were (b) Royal Brisbane—220,961 funded by Queensland Health. The Corporate Office (c) Princess Alexandra—207,788,000 figure is currently 50 (end August 1996). (d) Royal Women's—43,612,000 (5) As at May 1996, 7 employees were identified as (e) Caboolture—20,273,000 being employed in jointly funded positions. The Corporate Office figure is currently 14 (end August (f) Toowoomba—59,818,000 1996). (g) Bundaberg—26,722,000 (h) Townsville—92,607,000 669.Wahroonga Nursing Home (I) The Prince Charles—95,804,000 Mr DOLLIN asked the Minister for Health (j) Gold Coast—90,240,000 (7/8/96)— (k) Mount Isa—19,107,000 (1) Has funding for the therapy centre at the Maryborough Base Hospital's Wahroonga (2) When the 1996 State Budget is brought down, Nursing Home ceased as this therapy centre you will see that the adequacy of hospital budgets is provides important therapy services such as addressed, and that the Coalition's commitment to physiotherapy for more than 20 external delivering health services on time and within budget patients a day, five days a week? is absolute. (2) Have these patients been encouraged to go to These hospitals' expenditure represents part of the the new activity centre provided by the Blue irresponsible blow out of costs which took place Nursing Service, which does not provide the under your now Leaders, Messrs Beattie and Elder. important and necessary therapy needed by These hospitals were also operating under these patients? Beattie/Elder system, which endorsed such practices as withholding accounts payable from small business Mr Horan (6/9/96): just to balance the books. I ordered these accounts (1) No, the funding for the therapy centre at the to be paid; therefore the figures given above contain Maryborough Hospital's Wahroonga Nursing Home up to fifteen months of such payments. Queensland has not ceased. The centre provides a range of Health is now operating under a new system of diversional therapy activities including craft and financial accountability, a system which will see it recreational activities (cards and games) and aims to meet its responsibilities to its patients, its provide a venue for people in the local community to communities, its suppliers, and to this Parliament. interact socially with nursing home residents. The centre is staffed by one enrolled nurse and is an activity centre rather than a therapy centre in terms 672.Land Tax of the services provided to clients. Ms BLIGH asked the Deputy Premier, There are no allied health therapy services offered at Treasurer and Minister for the Arts (7/8/96)— the centre. However, a Transcutaneous Electrical (1) Did the Coalition, on 3 July 1995, promise to Nerve Stimulation (TENS) machine is located at the offer a youth employment land tax rebate? centre for treatment of chronic pain. This machine (2) Will this initiative cost up to $60m to introduce? does not require professional supervision to use and is widely available for people to purchase for use in (3) When will this promise be implemented? their own treatment of chronic pain. Mrs Sheldon (6/9/96): Prior to the '95 election (2) The patients who attend the therapy centre at the campaign the Coalition released policies designed to Wahroonga Nursing Home visited the activity centre create jobs for our youth. At the time, the Coalition operated by the Blue Nursing Service on one had no knowledge of two very important factors: occasion in July 1996. The purpose of this visit was (i) an underlying Budget deficit of around to provide an opportunity for people to link with $240 million in 1996-97, which we inherited from another activity group. the Labor Government; and 3026 Questions on Notice 13 Sep 1996

(ii) a funding shortfall of around $250 million or $475,000.00; $97,100.00; $187,000.00; more in 1996-97 from the Commonwealth $1,049,000.00; $549,000.00; $104,624.00; Government. $227,217.00; $322,115.00. These factors have necessitated a reassessment of One of the tenderers rejected was seeking to be all expenditure and revenue measures and decisions registered on future panels for tenders (not for a need to be considered in the context of the State's specific tender). overall financial position. Details of any revenue measures will be outlined in the Budget, which I will deliver on Tuesday. 678.Commission of Audit Mr HAMILL asked the Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for The Arts (8/8/96)— 674.Redcliffe Hospital Mr HOLLIS asked the Minister for Health With reference to statements by her that the (7/8/96)— Government's response to the findings of the Queensland Commission of Audit is presently being With reference to studies undertaken in his formulated by a team of public servants and department involving length of stay for twenty advisers— diagnostic related groups in the ten largest hospitals in South East Queensland— Who are these public servants and advisers, what are their position titles, and to which Minister or (1) Is he aware that of all hospitals surveyed, Ministers will they be reporting? Redcliffe Hospital had the shortest lengths of stay? Mrs Sheldon (6/9/96): Given the wide-ranging nature of the Commission of Audit recommendations (2) Is he aware that shorter lengths of stay impose and their potential impact on the shape of the greater burdens upon the community which has Queensland public sector in the future, the heavier responsibilities for assisting Government has established a small Audit convalescence when length of stay is shorter? Commission Implementation Office to operate until (3) What initiatives and what additional funding for 30 June 1998. community health has he made available to the The role of this Office is to assess the Commission Redcliffe district to make allowance for the of Audit's recommendations and to advise the savings that have been delivered by the Government on their implementation. It reports Redcliffe Hospital? directly to the Premier and myself. Dr Peter Mr Horan (6/9/96): (1) Yes. Dr Tony Morton Crossman, who headed the Commission of Audit was commissioned by the Epidemiology and Health Secretariat, has been nominated to be the Executive Information Branch of my department to conduct the Director of the Office. Dr Crossman and most of the study. His preliminary findings were presented to other staff of the Office have been seconded from Queensland Health in an article entitled Variation in Queensland Treasury and the Department of Premier Length of Stay: Implications for Casemix Funding and Cabinet. and Hospital Best Practice. His preliminary findings have been confirmed following his visit to Redcliffe Hospital to further investigate a number of the DRGs. 680.Superannuation Fund Mr De LACY asked the Deputy Premier, 677.Queensland Building Services Authority Treasurer and Minister for The Arts (8/8/96)— Mr MACKENROTH asked the Minister for With reference to her Ministerial Statement in Public Works and Housing (8/8/96)— Parliament on 7 August where she said that the State Government's surplus included $750m in With reference to his statement at the Queensland superannuation provisions— Master Builders Association awards night that building contracts would be awarded by his (1) What was the total Government contribution to department until the builder was approved by the the superannuation fund for 1995-96? Queensland Building Services Authority (QBSA)— (2) What was the interest earnings on the fund? (1) How many contracts has the BSA advised him (3) What was the total payment to beneficiaries of not to proceed with? the fund? (2) What is the name of each of these builders? Mrs Sheldon (6/9/96): The outcome for the (3) What was the value of each of these contracts? 1995-96 financial year is currently being finalised and Mr Connor (6/9/96): details, including the composition of the superannuation surplus, will be available shortly. (1) None. However as at 8 August 1996, advice had been provided not to proceed with tenderers on 14 Projects. 684.State Emergency Services (2) Due to the commercial sensitivities of the issues Mr DOLLIN asked the Minister for Emergency involved, it is inappropriate for the names of these Services and Minister for Sport (8/8/96)— tenderers to be made public. With reference to the heavy cuts to funding to the (3) $6,339,312.00; $153,863.42; $132,978.00; State Emergency Services and, in particular, the $4,335,000.00; $159,915.00; $909,600.00; Rural Fire Brigades and Volunteer Coast Guards— 13 Sep 1996 Questions on Notice 3027

(1) What will be the dollar value in funding lost to only 2 of the projects are located in Labor our area? Electorates— (2) Will this Government continue the funding to (1) How does he justify this blatant pork barrelling the local coast guard Sandy Straits volunteer of Coalition electorates at the expense of unit as the previous Labor Government had students in Labor areas? done to the tune of approximately $20,000 per (2) In light of claims that there is no capital works year? freeze, why has their been a delay in providing Mr Veivers (9/9/96): funding from his department for the Runcorn (1) There will be no heavy budget cuts to the Rural Community Sports Complex at Runcorn State Fire Division in the 1996/97 budget. High School? You have also asked for details specifically relating (3) How many other major capital works projects in to your area. The Rural Fire Division does not Queensland schools are awaiting his approval allocate funds to any specific geographical area in and what are the details? Queensland. The Division maintains a number of (4) What is the full list of major and minor capital schemes which provide financial and other works projects commenced in Queensland assistance to rural fire brigades and each scheme has schools since he became Minister for Education its own criteria and priorities. In general terms I can and what are the details of each project advise that the needs of each brigade are assessed including location, cost and the nature of the on their merits and assistance is provided in capital works commenced? accordance with those needs, to the extent that Mr Quinn (11/9/96): available funds permit. (1) Of the sixteen projects referred to on 5 August With regard to volunteer coast guards, no subsidy 1996, one project, Deeragun State High School— funding has been lost in this area. New School, was referred to twice. This occurred (2) This government will continue funding to the local because a tender for the new school was accepted coast guard Sandy Straits volunteer unit in on 13 June 1996; the successful tenderer accordance with the current subsidy schemes subsequently withdrew. A new tender was criteria. If the Sandy Straits volunteer unit satisfies consequently accepted. these requirements it will qualify for a subsidy of up The fifteen unique projects referred to were all to a maximum of $20,000. approved by the Labor Party Government as part of the 1995-96 Education Capital Works Program. 686.Workers Compensation Fund (2) On 27 April 1995, the then Minister for Education Mr ROBERTS asked the Deputy Premier, approved a contribution of $160,000 and a site, Treasurer and Minister for The Arts (8/8/96)— towards the Runcorn Parents and Citizens Association indoor sports complex project. Given With reference to Workers' Compensation Board that the Department of Education grant is being funds (8/8/96)— matched by funding from the P&C Association, the (1) Were these funds used by the former Bjelke- Department is awaiting acknowledgment that the Petersen Government to finance, or partially association has incurred expenditure equivalent to finance, the construction of a number of State the approved contribution. When the relevant Government building projects? documentation has been received, the grant will be paid. The Association was advised of the required (2) If so, (a) which buildings, (b) what funds were procedures on 25 May 1995. withdrawn in each case and (c) what rate of return was received from these funds? I am advised, therefore, that there are no outstanding Mrs Sheldon (6/9/96): matters in relation to the Department of Education and the funding of this particular project. It is (1) I am advised by the responsible Minister that no believed, however, that the project has been held up funds from the Workers' Compensation Board were as a result of a delay in the finalisation of a $360,000 used by the former Bjelke-Petersen Government to commitment by the Brisbane City Council. finance the construction of State Government (3) There are no capital works projects in building projects. Queensland schools awaiting my approval. (2) Not applicable. (4) A total of 59 projects from the main Capital Works Program and 27 projects funded under the Building 690. Schools, Capital Works Projects; Runcorn Better Schools Conversion/Upgrading element have State High School commenced in schools since 26 February 1996. The value of these projects total $52.318 million. In Mr ROBERTSON asked the Minister for addition, many small projects relating to Education (8/8/96)— improvements in security and routine minor works With reference to the 16 major capital works projects have been undertaken. Refer attached. in Queensland schools, listed by the Premier in answer to a question without notice on 5 August 1996—2 of the projects were listed twice, 12 of the 691.Women's Health Policy Unit 14 or 86 per cent of the remaining projects are Mr HOLLIS asked the Deputy Premier, located in National and Liberal Party electorates and Treasurer and Minister for The Arts (8/8/96)— 3028 Questions on Notice 13 Sep 1996

(1) In her role as Minister responsible for Women's 693.State Capital Works Projects Affairs will she outline the Government's Mr ELDER asked the Deputy Premier, priorities and initiatives planned for women's Treasurer and Minister for The Arts (8/8/96)— health policy and programs administered by Queensland Health? Will she supply a list of all contracts for capital works let by this Government since February 1996, (2) As the Women's Affairs Minister, will she including those from the Labor Government elaborate on the rationale behind the Accelerated Capital Works Program, how much each downgrading of the Women's Health Policy Unit one was worth and the dates on which they were from branch status to just one advisory position let? for the entire Health Department? Mrs Sheldon (6/9/96): As the Honourable (3) Does she support these changes to the role of Member would be aware, details of major capital the former Women's Health Policy Unit and works projects (including actual expenditure in agree with the reasoning contained in the 1995-96) will be included in the Capital Works Queensland Health Information Paper on the Budget Paper to be presented to Parliament on 10 restructure that "women's health has been a September. high priority for the past five years", the inference being that it no longer requires the More detailed information on individual contracts is level of attention it had under the former Labor not maintained by Treasury and as such I am not in a Government? position to provide details on the value of individual contracts nor of the dates on which such contracts (4) Will she confirm reports that on International were let. Women's Day in 1996, she embarrassed organisers and the audience by cutting short a speech which outlined priorities in women's 699.Rockhampton Base Hospital policy areas that she is well aware will be cut Mr SCHWARTEN asked the Minister for when she delivers the upcoming Budget; if not, Health (8/8/96)— then will she summarise new initiatives and expenditure planned by the Borbidge minority With reference to the Rockhampton Base Hospital— Government in its first term across all portfolio (1) How many people are on waiting lists for areas with responsibilities for women's policy surgery of any kind at the Rockhampton Base and services? Hospital? Mrs Sheldon (6/9/96): (1) The responsibility (2) How long will these patients have to wait to for women's health policy, programs and services, as access surgery? for all health matters, rests with my colleague the Minister for Health. (3) How many beds are currently available for patients at the Rockhampton Base Hospital? However a range of specific initiatives relating to women will be delivered in the budget, which I will (4) How many beds were available in August 1995? announce on Tuesday. (5) What was the waiting list/time in August 1995? (6) Has there been anytime during the last two 692.Taxes months, a situation whereby patients have not been able to be admitted into either the Mr NUTTALL asked the Deputy Premier, psychiatric unit or any other ward in the hospital Treasurer and Minister for The Arts (8/8/96)— because of bed shortages? Is the Government considering the introduction of (7) Is there any dispute between the Queensland (a) a fuel tax, (b) increased tobacco tax, (c) financial Nurses Union and his department over the institutions duty and (d) increased bad tax? staffing levels at the new psychiatric unit to be Mrs Sheldon (6/9/96): As the Honourable opened on 15 August; if so, what is the nature Member would be aware, the Coalition Government of this dispute, has it been resolved and will the currently is in the process of preparing for its first staffing levels be to the level of that expected Budget, which will be presented to Parliament on by the Queensland Nurses Union? Tuesday. In this regard, two very important factors Mr Horan (9/9/96): I am advised by will make the framing of the 1996-97 Budget Queensland Health that: extremely difficult. (1) As at 1 August 1996, there were 1,470 patients (i) an underlying Budget deficit of around $240 awaiting surgery. million in 1996-97, which we inherited from the Labor Government; and (2) The wait depends on the category into which the specialist has placed the patient. (ii) a funding shortfall of around $250 million or more in 1996-97 from the Commonwealth Category 1—operation to be done within 30 days; Government. Category 2—operation to be done within 90 days; These factors have necessitated a reassessment of and all expenditure and revenue measures and decisions Category 3—no waiting time given, as urgent life need to be considered in the context of the State's threatening and trauma cases take first priority. overall financial position. Details of any revenue Currently, 43 patients are in Category 1; 169 patients measures will be outlined in the Budget. in Category 2; and 1,258 patients in Category 3. 13 Sep 1996 Questions on Notice 3029

(3) There are currently 237 beds available at With reference to his most recent statements ruling Rockhampton Base Hospital, of which approximately out the prospect of the introduction of an increase in 216 have be occupied daily in the year to date. tobacco tax in the Coalition's State Budget and his (4) There were 269 beds available at Rockhampton previous comments in support of such an increase — Base Hospital in August 1995, of which Will he restate his position to clarify the matter? approximately 193 were occupied daily. Mr Horan (9/9/96): Responsibility for this (5) The number of patients waiting in August 1995 legislation and, therefore, any fee increase rests with was 1,715. my colleague, the Honourable the Treasurer. (6) During the past two months, there have been no occasions when patients have not been able to be 705. Sydney 2000 Olympics; Sporting admitted into either the psychiatric unit or any other Facilities, Bundaberg ward in the hospital because of bed shortages. Mr CAMPBELL asked the Minister for (7) There is no dispute with the Queensland Nurses Emergency Services and Minister for Sport Union over staffing levels for the Mental Health (8/8/96)— Facility. An agreement has been made with the staff that the in-patient numbers will be limited to 15 With reference to his statements and those of the during the transition period. This limit will give staff Tourism Minister, regarding Queensland taking and patients adequate time to settle into new advantage of the Sydney 2000 Olympics by surroundings. The transition was evaluated on 26 providing training facilities for overseas national August 1996, and the extension of the transition teams in the lead-up to these Olympics— period by one month has been approved. The (1) To allow provincial cities such as Bundaberg to current staffing levels have been agreed upon by the take advantage of the 2000 Olympics, will he Manager, Rockhampton District Health Service, the make available special funds to provide Director, Mental Health Services, and the international standard training facilities, Queensland Nurses Union. accommodation and other associated services and facilities? (2) In view of the major investment in recent years 700.Fire Station, Kallangur Electorate to sporting and public facilities in Brisbane and Mr HAYWARD asked the Minister for Townsville, will he earmark special capital works Emergency Services and Minister for Sport funding to Bundaberg and other provincial (8/8/96)— areas to put these areas on equal footing to the With reference to significant increases in population large cities? in the Narangba/Burpengary areas west of the north (3) Will he make a priority for Bundaberg to receive coast railway line, making up a large portion of the significant sporting grants in view of the very Kallangur electorate which now numbers high unemployment in Bundaberg? approximately 31,000 and my concern that this area, in particular, is referred to as 'no man's land' by the Mr Veivers (9/9/96): In response to the Fire Service— specific questions made by Mr Campbell, I can advise as follows: Will he give an undertaking to these residents that a fire station will be established in this region in 1996- The provision of government funded sports facilities 97 to cater for this population explosion? in Queensland is dependent on a number of programs. Those for which my department has direct Mr Veivers (9/9/96): In response to the responsibility include the National Standards Sports specific question made by Mr Hayward, I can advise Facilities Program, Community Sports Development as follows: Program, and Minor Facilities Program. The Queensland Fire Service over the last three A future focus of the department will include the years has collected risk mapping data for the whole development of a ten year capital works program of Queensland. The profile of risk for the area which will determine the provision of International, covered by Caboolture, Deception Bay and Petrie National, State and Regional Queensland sports fire stations, and a number of Rural Brigades facilities to take advantage of the 2000 Olympics by indicates that the area detailed in the question will providing training facilities for Australian and require an improved fire service as the development overseas teams in the lead-up to the Olympics. The of the area progresses. main aim of the Community Sports Development The Regional Service Delivery Plan is in the process Program is to develop sports facilities and programs of review to determine whether an additional station which provide access and improved performance for in the area is warranted, in addition to the relocation all Queenslanders. of Deception Bay and Redcliffe fire stations. To this end, the provision of sport grants for Therefore, the relocation of Deception Bay in the Bundaberg and all other areas will be addressed in financial year 1996/97 has been deferred pending the terms of the requirements of the programs outlined outcome of this review. above. The availability of facilities as training venues for overseas teams would be seen as one of a number of factors which might assist in determining 704.Tobacco Tax the placement of sports facilities across the state. Mrs EDMOND asked the Minister for Health Any specific allocation of funds to Bundaberg will be (8/8/96)— dependent upon proven regional need. 3030 Questions on Notice 13 Sep 1996

707.000 Emergency Telephone Service shed from the administrative workforce, or does Mrs CUNNINGHAM asked the Minister for it mean that 200 positions will be retained? Emergency Services and Minister for Sport (4) If he is not responsible for authorising (8/8/96)— memoranda authored by his Director-General With reference to the high level of concern by the and Deputy Director-Generals in relation to community of known problems with centralised 000 important staff considerations resulting from dialling— Coalition savings policies as stated in his previous answer, who is? What review is he proposing for this process and more especially in regional and rural Queensland? Mr Horan (9/9/96): Mr Veivers (9/9/96): The 000 emergency (1) Administrative positions in the former Regional telephone line is a designated line operated by Health Authority and in the former Central Office will Telstra in the form of a Universal Service Obligation be decreased by about 200, including those for the benefit of the community and comes within occupied by personnel who were offered and the Federal Government's jurisdiction. An emergency accepted a Voluntary Early Retirement package. call on this service is directed by Telstra to the (2) I anticipate that the decrease in the size of emergency service nominated by the caller. Queensland Health's public service workforce will be Considerable infrastructure and operator support is finalised by 31 December 1996. provided by Telstra for this purpose. (3) There will be fewer administrative positions. The Department of Emergency Services is a client of (4) The constitution of the State, its administrative Telstra. We work closely with Telstra to ensure that law, and the conventions of Westminster guarantee they are constantly aware of our needs as an an independent, apolitical public service. In emergency service provider. accordance with this guarantee, the Director-General The Computer Aided Despatch system currently carries the operational responsibility for the being installed by my Department will provide a memoranda in question. professional and coordinated response to emergency situations with the need for helicopter assistance or additional ambulances or fire trucks to 710.Aged Care Services be immediately assessed and activated. It enables Mr NUNN asked the Minister for Health specially trained people to respond to the initial call (8/8/96)— for assistance. With reference to the future of aged care services To assist emergency vehicles to quickly locate and the devolution proposals on the table for properties and to minimise confusion with directions, consideration by the Commonwealth and the the Department of Emergency Services, in States— association with the Local Government Association (1) What is his interpretation or his department's of Queensland, has developed a "Rural Addressing advice on the implications of any proposals or Strategy". The "Rural Addressing Information decisions contained in the COAG Communique Package" was launched by me on Thursday, 11 July dated 14 June 1996 for Queensland's aged care 1996, and has been sent to all Councils. There has health sector? been a very positive response to this important initiative. (2) Will he outline the key issues raised by peak bodies and service providers in his discussions While there is no specific review of the currently with them as part of his consultative process? centralised 000 dialling system, my Department is in constant liaison with Telstra and is pro-active in (3) What advice has he received from non-political continually developing systems to improve all sources that favours the devolution proposal? aspects of emergency service delivery. Mr Horan (9/9/96): (1) The COAG Communique of 14 June 1996 709.Queensland Health, Staffing indicated agreement to a broad direction for possible reform, and to a process for considering such reform Ms BLIGH asked the Minister for Health arrangements. No agreement has been reached on (8/8/96)— responsibilities or funding. However, nothing will With reference to his answer to Question on Notice occur unless the financial assistance offered by the No: 490 to clarify the figures provided— Commonwealth is adequate. The Health and Community Services Ministerial Council established (1) Has he decreased administration positions in a working group on the strategy and issues for regional and corporate offices by 200 positions, devolution. Discussions between Queensland Health including those who were able to secure a and the Commonwealth have just commenced: no Voluntary Early Retirement package? agreement has been reached on responsibilities or (2) Has this decrease in the size of Queensland funding. Health's public service workforce been effected Analysis of the implications of the proposed reforms in full; if not, when will it be finalised? for aged care services in Queensland will be (3) With a view to clarifying his answer to part 3 of undertaken in the coming months. This analysis, the previous Question No. 490, does "positions together with the proposed program of public to be saved" mean these positions have been consultation to take place later this year, will be the 13 Sep 1996 Questions on Notice 3031 basis for Queensland's input into further work the Subsidy Scheme. Neither association had undertaken under the auspices of COAG. Potential received its entitlement since 1992/93. benefits may include those identified in the Service Agreements entered into between Volunteer Communique, including improved effectiveness and Marine Rescue Association of Queensland and efficiency of services and improved cost control, as Australian Volunteer Coast Guard and the well as improved flexibility in meeting people's Government state that: needs. Clearly, the interests of consumers, "The subsidy period shall be of five (5) years' providers, and the Queensland taxpayer will be duration with a minimum annual subsidy of paramount in assessment of all proposals. It should $750,000, subject to compliance by the Service be noted that the Communique contains a number of Provider with this Agreement." structural proposals in addition to that of devolution. I have proposed that budget funding for 1996/97 (2) The key issues raised in initial discussions held by increase to $800,000 for each blue water association Queensland Health with peak bodies and service with a subsequent increase to $880,000 over the providers include: next two years. the maintenance of quality and nationally This budget proposal indicates my strong support to consistent standards of care, including access the Volunteer Marine Rescue system across to and affordability of services; Queensland and the great work that the blue water ensuring protection of funding for aged care rescue services undertake in support of the services from diversion to other areas, including community. growth and capital funding, and addressing current funding inadequacies; 712. Commission of Audit; Privatisation of establishing incentives to reward quality service Public Hospitals provision, and to enhance consumer choices Mr T. B. SULLIVAN asked the Deputy through increased flexibility in service Premier, Treasurer and Minister for The Arts provision; (8/8/96)— improved linkages between services; and With reference to a recent edition of the Northside protection of disadvantaged groups. Chronicle where she said, "there are absolutely no (3) As indicated in the response to question (2), plans by the Coalition Government to sell Prince advice from industry representatives and peak Charles Hospital, or any other public hospital" and organisations to date has identified both risks and her repeated claim in this House following the opportunities arising from devolution. Similar advice publication of the Fitzgerald Financial Audit, that has been received from Departmental officers. nothing can be ruled out, that everything is still on the table— Will she now assure the people of Queensland that 711. Volunteer Marine Rescue Services she rejects the relevant recommendations of Dr Subsidy Scheme Fitzgerald, and that she will not privatise services Mrs ROSE asked the Minister for Emergency offered in Queensland's public hospital? Services and Minister for Sport (8/8/96)— Mrs Sheldon (6/9/96): The recommendations With reference to the Volunteer Marine Rescue of the Commission of Audit (Fitzgerald Report) Services Subsidy Scheme— including those relating to health will be considered on a portfolio basis. While various support services Will he give an assurance he will honour the previous provided in public health facilities such as hotel, Government's commitment to increase funding from pathology and pharmaceutical services could approximately $760,000 to $880,000, an increase of conceivably be provided by the private sector, $120,000 to the blue water rescue services, which significant gains could be made by retaining these include the coastguard at Southport, Point Danger services in-house and adopting commercial type Air Sea Rescue, and the Currumbin Voluntary Marine practices. Rescue Association (air sea rescue)? The Government's primary focus will be on building a Mr Veivers (9/9/96): In response to the responsive, efficient and effective public health specific question made by Mrs Rose, I can advise as system with a solid funding base. In doing so, the follows: benefits of contracting certain services to the private The only commitment given by the previous sector will be considered as a means of improving Government was a verbal statement by the Minister access to services. of the day, the Honourable Tom Burns, that funding to the blue water volunteer marine rescue 766.Mr R. Henshaw associations (Volunteer Marine Rescue Association of Queensland Incorporated [formerly the Air Sea Mrs WOODGATE asked the Minister for Rescue Association of Queensland] and Australian Families, Youth and Community Care (4/9/96)— Volunteer Coast Guard) would be increased from With reference to the employment arrangements $610,000 to $880,000, an increase of $270,000 per concerning Mr Rod Henshaw— association, over a three year period. (1) How is Mr Henshaw employed? This increase was to bring the level of funding to (2) What are the terms and conditions of his these two associations up to their entitlement under employment? 3032 Questions on Notice 13 Sep 1996

(3) What was the selection process by which Mr (15) What role did he play in helping Mr Henshaw Henshaw was employed? win approval to interview jailed former Police (4) How many other applicants for the position Commissioner, Mr Terry Lewis? were interviewed? Mr Lingard (13/9/96): Details of this question (5) Was the position now held by Mr Henshaw were supplied in response to a question in this house advertised; if so, when and where? on 9th July. (6) How much is Mr Henshaw paid per annum? (1)-(14) Rod Henshaw is employed by the Department of Families, Youth and Community Care (7) How many hours does Mr Henshaw work each on a contractual basis through his own Company, week? Rod Henshaw Pty Ltd. (8) Is Mr Henshaw free to take on additional He is contracted to provide media work for the employment outside of the Minister's Department of Families, Youth and Community Care. department in those hours in which he is not This includes preparation of speeches and contracted to the Government? promotion work undertaken by the Department. (9) Is Mr Henshaw employed by the Minister's The financial arrangements between Mr Henshaw's department or via the Ministerial Support Unit? Company and the Department are subject to normal (10 What is Mr Henshaw's role? confidentiality practices. (11) Is Mr Henshaw responsible to the Director- Under the terms of his contract with the Department, General of the Minister's department or is he Mr Henshaw is free to undertake any other work he part of the Ministerial staff and, as such, and his Company wishes. responsible to the Minister? There has never been any suggestion from either Mr (12) Did the Minister or anyone else attempt to Henshaw, myself or my Department that Mr Henshaw award Mr Henshaw with a permanent public be appointed to a permanent Public Services service position on a salary equivalent to that of position or that he perform duties other than those I Senior Executive Service Level Two; if so, who outlined earlier. made this attempt? Mr Henshaw's media experience is extensive, (13) How many people work in the capacity of covering all aspects of the media and promotional Media Adviser to the Minister? areas and that experience is utilised under the terms of his contract. (14) What experience does Mr Henshaw have in the areas of families, youth and community care? (15) The answer is none.

J. R. SWAN, GOVERNMENT PRINTER, QUEENSLAND—1996