5528 Death of the Honourable Archibald Todd [ASSEMBLY

housing of his constituents. At times he Legislative Assembly fought the Housing Commission but he Tuesday, 10 March 1981 always had kind words to say about the chairman and about the efforts of the Housing Commission to help him with The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plowman) his difficult problems in the Port Mel­ took -the chair at 4.7 p.m. and read the bourne electorate and the Melbourne prayer. West Province. DEATH OF THE HONOURABLE He was fair in these matters and ARCHIBALD TO DD vigorous in debate, but always gave credit where credit was dlle. It is time Mr HAMER (Premier)-I move: for honourable members to give him That this House expresses its sincere sorrow credit because it is due to him. He be­ at the death of the Honourable Archibald Todd came a member of the Legislative and places on record its acknowledgment of Council and, as I recall, he was a mem­ the .valuable services rendered by him ,to the Parliament and the people of Victoria as a ber of the Statute Law Revision Com­ member of the Legislative Assembly for the mittee from 1958 to 1964 and then again electoral district of Port Melbourne from 1955 from 1967 to 1970. He was Chairman of to 1958, and member of the Legislative Council the Statute Law Revision Committee for the Melbourne West Province from 1958 to 1970. for the last two years of his Parlia­ mentary service, from 1969 to 1970. He The motion records the deep feeling of was a member of the Printing Com­ all honourable members at the death mittee of the Legislative Council from yesterday of one of the most dis­ 1962 to 1970. I do not suppose that in­ tinguished members of the Parliament to volved him in any great action. serve inbotlh Houses. My experience of the honourable member extenc!ed over He was a member of the Legislative a period of twelve years in the Legis­ Council Little Desert Settlement Com­ lative Council. In fact the honourable mittee from 1969 to 1970 and Tem­ member and I entered the Legislative porary Chairman of Committees in the Council on the sam'e day after con­ Legislative Council from 1964 to 1970. testing the same election. He died yesterday at the age of 81 years. Apart from his service in Pa'rliament as ~rchibald Todd was one of the finest a member for Port Melbourne and, later, men I have ever met. In my estima,te for Melbourne West Province, he also and experience he was reliable and fair, found time to be prominent in local although very direct and a person who government. expressed his views very strongly but always fairly. He was cOlnpletely trust­ He was a member of the Port Mel­ worthy and he had the saving grace of bourne City Council for many years and humour that made him one of the most held the office of mayor three times. He popular members of the Parliament. became mayor for one year after he re­ Victoria can ill afford to lose a man of tired from Parliament, from 1973 to that calibre, especially after the life­ 1974. He had a distinguished record in time of service that he gave. public life, both at State Government and local government levels. He was He was a member of this House also chairman of the Advisory Council from 28 May 1955 to 18 April for the J. H. Boyd Domestic College and 1958, during which time he rep­ Chairman of the Fishermens Bend Youth resented the electoral district of Centre. Port Melbourne, where he lived. He then transferred, a,fter the following He would be best remembered outside election, to the Legislative Council as Parliament for his leadership of the the member for the Melbourne West Australian Timber Workers Union, Province. He served in that province about which he spoke with great firom 21 June 1958 to 26 June 1970. In authority and to the considerable en­ many respects, he was a model local lightenment of his fellow members. He mem,ber of Parliament. He fought hard, served as the Victorian State president especially for welfare housing and the and Federal vice-president of that union. 10 March 1981] Death of the Honourable Archibald Todd 5529

Honourable members can all agree that often the subject of legislation. He was he was a fine leader of the union and always regarded as a fighter for the that he was deeply imbued with causes in which he believed. unionism and the benefits of unionism but, above all, he understood timber and In paying respect to him today, it is the timber industry. significant to note that he represented an important link with Victoria's Archie Todd leaves one son, three history. He was a great Labor Party man daughters and eleven grandchildren. He and during the great timber strike of the has left his mark on the community in 1920s he learned what it was to be on many ways, including through his the other side. That encouraged him to descendants. The House records its take an active role in the Australian sorrow at his death and passes on to his Timber Workers Union for which he son and three daughters its condolences was Federal vice-president and State at the loss of a kind man, their father, secretary for a number of years. He was and to his grarydchildren for the loss of well respected in the trade union move­ an obviously beloved grandfather. ment and regarded as a moderate trade unionist. They were the views that he It is always a problem to try to be adequate in these matters. I should add expressed in this Chamber and in the that he was a distinguished bowler. Legislative Council. After his retirement, I used to see him When Archibald Todd went to the on the Parliamentary bowling green. I Legislative Council, members of the had the honour of opening the season a Legislative Assembly considered that few times and Archibald Todd was they were losing not only a good de­ always there with his friends, Larry bater, but also a person who could give Floyd and Leo Fennessy. I am sorry that advice to Parliament from time to time. the trio is now broken. At all events, I He was the honourable member for Port am expressing the views of the House, Melbourne from 1955 to 1958 and mem­ of those honourable members who knew ber of the Legislative Council Mel­ Archibald Todd here and in another bourne West Province from 1958 to place, and certainly of members of the 1970. His long involvement in politics Liberal Party, in expressing condolences and the trade union movement led him to his family and stating how much we to have interests in other areas. Those respected and admired their parent and interests were partly covered by the grandfather. Premier. He took a great interest in local sporting activities and was associ­ Mr WILKES (Leader of the ated with youth and education Opposition)-I support the motion organizations. moved by the Premier that the House expresses its sincere sorrow at the death He was one of the few probationary of the Honourable Archibald Todd and officers appointed by the late Sir Arthur places on record its acknowledgment Rylah to the Children's Court. Many of the valuable services rendered by him youths and young ladies in this State to the Parliament. Archibald Todd owe their successes and directions to represented the Port Melbourne elector­ the care that Archie Todd was able to ate for three years and I was in this show them while they were under his House for eighteen months of that time. protection. During that time, one could not doubt He served with the Victorian Football his ability to debate any matter at all. Association for a number of years and When the late Ernie Shepherd was here his whole life was devoted to serving he called on Archibald Todd on a people in whatever capacity he saw fit. number of occasions to participate in I consider Archibald Todd will not only debates. As the Premier has said, be remembered for what we know he Archie was a keen debater and could did, but he will also be remembered for speak without any prior knowledge on actions of which honourable members the subject being debated. He was able are not aware. On behalf of members of to do so because of his knowledge of a the Labor Party, I extend sincere con­ whole range of subjects which were dolences to his family, his three 5530 Death of the Honourable Archibald Todd [ASSEMBLY daughters, his son, and in particular the City of Port Melbo rne. He was in­ Thelma, who had the responsibility of volved in education a in youth work. looking after Mr and Mrs Todd in the I believe that typifies he man. later years of their lives. We consider Archie Todd was a redit to this Par­ that Archibald Todd's record of service liament and, with hi passing, we have to the community will be a consolation lost a very great Au tralian. to them in the years to come. Mr THOMPSON (T. easurer)-Like the Mr ROSS-EDWARDS (Leader of the Premier, I was a m mber of the Upper National Party)-I support the motion House during the t elve-year member­ moved by the Premier and supported by ship of that instit tion by the Hon. the Leader of the Opposition in express­ Archie Todd. Als like the Premier, ing sympathy at the passing of the late I regarded him a one of the finest Archibald Todd and I extend to his men I had ever et, whether inside family, his children and grand­ or outside the Par ament. children, the sympathy of honourable members of this House. Archie Todd ha~three major interests in the Parliament ry sphere: Housing, As a member of both Houses of Par­ forests and educa ,on. During the 1960s liament, Archie Todd had the opportun­ I happened to be;associated with those ity of being better known than most three portfolios and therefore had a honourable members. Not many people great deal to do with the Honourable have enjoyed that experience. He was Archie Todd. He was a very well edu­ closely connected with the grass roots cated man, although not in the formal of the community. He was very much sense, as he often explained to me. He a local member. He knew his area and was educated through his own efforts. had a feeling for it. He was a prolific reader. No member When I first entered Parliament I used the Parliamentary Library more or knew him well as a member of the to better effect than he did. Statute Law Revision Committee from He was interested in the J. H. Boyd 1960 to 1967. The Premier mentioned Domestic College and was president of a trio on the bowling green. He was a the school for a number of years. He member of another trio of that genera­ introduced a number of worthwhile tion-on the Statute Law Revision Com­ innovations, as well as a team spirit mittee-the trio of Jack Tripovich, amongst council members. He was also Dinny Lovegrove and Archie Todd. My particularly interested in lifting the education and knowledge of the Labor standard of housing of the many people Party and the earlier days of this Parlia­ in his electorate. He was a 'constant ment benefited by having known that visitor to the Housing Commission and trio during that period. came up with constructive suggestions I remember Archie Todd as a man of and ideas. He was also deeply interested great dignity. This was borne out by in the planting of new forests and in the his behaviour, his natural good manners, effect of utilization of forest resources. his demeanour and his standard of dress. One of the most amazing facts about He was constructive in his approach to the Honourable Archie Todd was that he matters in dispute. He tried to find an was, as the Premier mentioned, Presi­ answer and was never negative. dent of the Australian Timber Workers The Australian Labor Party must be Union. On the employers side he very proud that a man of his attributes was regarded as a very fine person, and integrity should have represented a good bloke, by the employers that party in the Victorian Parliament. and those on the employees' side de­ As mentioned by the Leader of the Op­ scribed him in the same manner. This position, his public service did not end would not occur to people in or with his representation in the Victorian outside of the union movement Parliament. He had a long and dis­ today. He developed a principle tinguished association with the Aus­ of co-operation between the two sides tralian timber workers. He served in in the timber industry that could well local government as a councillor for be emulated in other fields of activity. 10 March 19S1] Death of the Honourable Archibald Todd 5531

He also had a deep interest in sporting Melbourne has lost a fine resident. I activities and a long association with also offer my condolences to his the Port Melbourne Football Club. family. We will miss him in the area. We mourn his passing and extend Mr DUNSTAN (Dromana)-I join our deepest sympathy to members of with other honourable members in ex­ his family. He was indeed a very close pressing condolences at the loss of family man. We, along with others, will Arch Todd. I first experienced the remember him for his scho'arship, for thunder of Arch Todd's sincerity and his ready wit, his conscientious service authority before either of us was as a member of Parliament and for the elected to this Parliament. During a extraordinarily fine spirit he fostered broadcast I gave at Wesley Church on between the two sides of the timber a pleasant Sunday afternoon I likened industry so effectively over such a long an incident in Italy and the behaviour period. of the people to the behaviour of the Mr WALSH (Albert Park)-I support people at a grand final at Port Mel­ the motion, as other honourable mem­ bourne. I thought the broadcast was bers have done. I knew Archibald Todd well received until two days later when I for more than 25 years. During that received a letter from His Worship the 25 years I found him to be an honest Mayor of Port Melbourne demanding person who he 'ped many members of an apology for insulting the citizens the Port Melbourne community. Not of Port Melbourne and the Port Mel­ only has his family lost a great man, but bourne football ground. As I said, I so also has Port Melbourne. He achieved experienced the thunder of Arch Todd's many things for the young people of sincerity and authority. I was some­ Port Melbourne. He was associated with what intimidated and wasted no time many organizations. He was associated in writing a letter of apology to His with the J. H. Boyd Domestic College Worship the Mayor. and the South Melbourne Technical School. Not long after that incident, Archi­ bald Todd and I were both elected to He was also patron of the Sandring­ this place and I could not understand ham Lifesaving Club, and, in his earlier why the honourable member for Port days, played an active 'role in that club. Melbourne glared across the Chamber I have heard it said on occasions by at me for fully twelve months. Later, Ministers in this place that the Port at a more congenial level, in Fremantle Melbourne council is one of the best as members of the Statute Law Revision councils in the State. I give credit for Committee, the late Arch Todd and the that to the Honourable Archibald Todd. late Jack Tripovich persuaded my wife Because of his grooming of the people to board a Russian freighter but said I who became councillors-he taught would not be welcome aboard. I am them how to run the city-that city sure honourable members will appreciate was run second to none in this State. my apprehension at the time. However, The Honourable Archibald Todd when they came ashore from the Russian taught me a great deal. I was associated freighter Arch winked at me and said with many Labor Party committees I had no need to worry for the hour over the 25 years I knew him. He en­ or so they were aboard, that my wife couraged me and many other people was in good hands.' She joins me in in the community in which I live. He this condolence for a very fine man. was a man of honesty who never let Mr CATHIE (Carrum)-No doubt I anyone down. He helped many people was a very young and green member in the Port Melbourne area. He will be when I entered the Legislative Council sadly missed. He was a good family in 1964, but I had been associated with man and his family always supported Archie Todd before then and I had him in what he did. found that he was a most humane man The Australian Labor Party has lost with many-sided outlooks, especially in a great member because of the passing the area in which I had been working of the Honourable Archibald Todd. Port with him. That was on a policy com- 5532 Adjournment [ASSEMBLY mittee on juvenile delinquency, a sub­ form of respect which has been men­ ject which in turn had arisen out of a tioned by honourab~ members from report made by Mr Justice Barry. both sides of the Hou e, the Opposition In the period just short of six years would welcome it ve y much. in which I was a member of the Legis­ However, the Go ernment is using lative Council, Archie Todd taught me the death of a former! member of Parlia­ much. He was one of the most experi­ ment for its own corlvenience, knowing enced debaters that I have heard and full well that questidn time was due to he was certainly one of the most effec­ start in one hour's time at 5.30 p.m. and tive. He was a man who possessed very proceed for three-q1J1.arters of an hour. strong loyalties and his loyalties to the As the Government has forced itself union movement, and in particular to into a position of reconvening its own the Australian Timber Workers Union, party meeting during the dinner break, has already been mentioned. Archie I suggest that this is an obvious device, Todd continued to serve that union after and I use the word advisedly, as it will he retired from the Legislative Council mean that the Government will no in 1970, as 1 was to find out later when longer be facing up to question time 1 was shadow Minister for Conservation until after that party meeting. I think and had a different outlook from that that is a great shame. of his union. Mr ROSS-EDWARDS (Leader of the Archie Todd was a great teacher, a National Party) -For obvious reasons loyal colleague and a gentleman 1 am very much loath to enter this respected by all., I join with other debate, but I ask the Premier or the honourable members in expressing sym­ Leader of the House to give an under­ pathy to his family. taking that the additional time for which The motion was agreed to in silence, the Hous·e is adjourning as a mark of honourable members signifying their respect is added to the period of the unanimous agreement by standing in sitting later this evening. If that under­ their places. taking is given then the National Party will question the matter no further. ADJOURNMENT It would be unfortunate for the House Mr HAMER (Premier)-I move: to have a serious debate about this. In That, as a further mark of respect to the memory of the late Honourable Archibald my view it would be in bad taste; but Todd, the House do now adjourn until eight an undertaking should be given that o'clock this day. what has been planned by the three lead­ Mr FORDHAM (Footscray)--On the ers of the House will be adhered to even question of the period of the adjourn­ if it means the sitting of the House is ment, it ought to be noted by the House continued beyond midnight tonight. that by arrangement among the parties it was suggested that the House, as a Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ further mark of respect to the late tion) -I agree with the Leader of the Archibald Todd, one of the greatest stal­ National Party that this is a delicate warts that the Labor Party has ever debate and one does not want to express had, should adiourn for one hour. Nor­ overtly the motives that have influenced mally that is the period of adjournment the Government in making the decision when the House finds itself in this situa­ that the House adjourn until 5 p.m. The tion. Opposition understood that the House Only one minute before the House wou'd adjourn for an hour as a further met, 1 was told that the period of mark of respect to the late Archibald adjournment was to be extended. If the Todd. I would suggest that if that period period of adjournment is being extended of adjournment was to be extended, because the Government wants to mark there should have been consultation this extra form of respect to Archie among the three parties. Otherwise, for Todd, and I agree that Archie Todd is obvious reasons, the Government is get­ unquestionably worthy of that further ting off to a bad start. 10 March 1981] Adjournment 5533

However, I would be bound to indi­ Ministers in the Legislative Council. The cate that if the late Archibald Todd Minister of Transport will answer thought for one moment that the Gov­ questions on behalf of the Attorney­ ernment was using this time for a pur­ General. and the Minister for Federal pose other than for that which it was Affairs; the Minister of Agriculture will intended to be used, he would have had answer questions on behalf of the different thoughts. Minister of Water Supply and the I find it incredible that the Govern­ Minister of Forests; the Minister for ment would use this device at a time Minerals and Energy will answer ques­ like this, when the House is expressing tions on behalf of the Minister for Local its condolences in the most sympathetic Government; the Minister of Public and sincere way that the House can Works will answer questions for the express such condolences and it is Minister for Conservation, the Minister wrong for the Government to use a of Lands and the Minister of Soldier device such as this for other reasons. Settlement, and the Minister for the Arts will answer questions for the I hope the Premier can give a satis­ Minister of Education. factory explanation why there has been an alteration to the decision that was ABSENCE OF MINISTER arrived at by the three leaders of the The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ parties. There was no consultation to man)-I have to announce that the alter that decision, which was obviously Minister of Health will be absent from made before the Government party met question time today, tomorrow and on this morning. If it was necessary for Thursday. the Government to adjourn its party meeting and to continue it later this day, then the party meeting ought not to QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE be associated in any way with the motion of condolence and the motion CASINO now before the House. It ill behoves Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ the Government to act in this way and tion) -In view of the continuing media I hope the Premier is prepared to give speculation and concern in the com­ an explanation for the behaviour of his munity in general, and the tourist in­ Government. dustry in particular, regarding Ithe pos­ Mr HAMER (Premier) (By leave)­ sibility of a casino or casinos in I certainly give the undertaking that the Victoria, is the Premier yet in a position Leader of the National Party sought. to make an announcement as to when Clearly there is no reason to do other­ a decision will be made by the Govern­ wise. In my view this is a matter which ment on the casino issue? is not one for discussion and I do not Mr HAMER (Premier)-The position propose to discuss it. The Government is simply this: The Parliamentary considers that the period for adjourn­ party of the Liberal Party has decided ment proposed is adequate and there that it will not take any further steps will be ample time for questions and in this matter unless a1nd until demon­ also to debate the matter which I under­ strable public support is evidenced for stand the Leader of the Opposition de­ such a casino. sires to bring on thereafter. The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ The motion was agreed to. man)-The Deputy Leader of the The House adjourned at 4.38 p.m. OpPosition will resume his seat, and the The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow- members behind him might give some man) took the chair at 8.4 p.m. regard to the dignity and decorum of this place. THE MINISTRY DECENTRALIZATION IN VICTORIA Mr HAMER (Premier)-I inform the Mr ROSS-EDWARDS (Leader of the House of the Ministers who will answer National Party) -Will the Premier give questions and handle Bills on behalf of an assurance to the House that the 5534 Questions without Notice [ASSEMBLY

Government's ten-point plan for de­ ~oria contributes 29 per cent to the centralization will continue ,to be im­ Income tax pool and receives back 23 plemented by the newly-established per cent, and the difference is approxi­ Ministry for Economic Development, mately $350 per annum. and that the representation of the de­ Honourable members interjecting. partment in country Victoria will be maintained at a similar level to that The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ existing when the Premier was the man)-Order! I again ask members of Minister responsible? the Opposition to uphold the decorum of this place, remain silent and listen to Mr HAM ER (P~ _'mier)-The Govern­ the answer to the question. ment's policy on decentralization has not altered in any way. The ,ten-point Mr THOMPSON-Victoria has now plan referred to by the Leader of the reached a stage where it regards this as National Party was adopted in 1972. It ,a form of legalized highway robbery. has been singularly successful, I believe, It can no longer afford to subsidize the in promoting the growth of industry in rest of Australia at a time when there country centres and in cbtaining a is a mineral boom in some of the other better balance of population within Vic­ States previously branded as backward. toria, and the Government intends in The second part of the question is: every way to maintain that momentum "What are you doing about it?" The and even, so far as it can, to increase it. first part of the answer is that the Government produced a 40 volume TAXATION REIMBURSEMENTS document or case to the Grants Com­ mission, which is expected to report Mr McCLURE (Bendigo )-1 direct my back in the middle of this year. The question to the Treasurer. Is it a fact Government is also informing the Vic­ that in a financial sense Victoria is sub­ torian community in a clear, concise sidizing the other States of Australia, form of the exact position; it is inform­ due to a formula that was arrived at ing the business community, members almost 40 years ago at a time of national of the Federal Parliament and the crisis when Victoria was governed by Federal G~vernment. the then Country Party? If it is a fact, can the Treasurer advise what -action h~ is taking on behalf of the people of Vic­ LEADERSHIP OF THE GOVERNMENT toria to ensure that this State receives Mr FORDHA~l (Footscray)-In view back from the Commonwealth an of the severe rebuff administered to the equitable share of the taxation revenue Premier this evening by his party in de­ that its citizens provide? termining whether there is demonst­ rable community support for a casino, Mr THOMPSON (Treasurer)-It is a statement which the Premier made true that in 1942 the Commonwealth recently, and in the interests of stable took over State taxing rights and agreed Government in Victoria, will the Premier to reimburse the States on the basis of inform the House whether he is con­ their tax collections in the two previous sidering continuing as Leader of the years averaged. The formula has re­ Government of Victoria or whether he m'ained much the same since that date; will take the only honourable course the split-up between the States has re­ and announce his resignation in the near mained almost identical. future? It means that in this financial year, for example, Victoria rece:ved $348 per The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ head; Queensland is reimbursed on the man)-Order! I rule that question out of basis of $480 per head; South Australia, order. $532 per head; Western Australia, $575 per head, and Tasmania, $710 per head. TEACHERS TRIBUNAL Obviously Victoria is acting as Father Mr WHITING (MiIdura)--Can the Christmas to the Test of Australia. It Minister of Educational Services inform pays the most income tax per head and the House, in view of paragraph 5.33 receives back the least per head. Vic- of the White Paper on Strategies and )0 March 1981] Questions without Notice 5535

Structures for Education in Victoria and The other day I had the privilege of the urgency referred to therein, what visiting Portland to watch the progress steps have so far been taken to remodel of the construction of the smelter a,d, the Teachers Tribunal? as a Victorian, I could not help feelhlg proud that it was progressing satis­ Mr LACY (Minister of Educational factorily and that the people of Portland Services) -The question asked by the were absolutely thrilled at what was Deputy Leader of the National Party is happening. The Opposition does not one to which the Minister of Education seem to understand, because of its has addressed a considerable amount of narrow vision of the future of Vic­ his efforts in recent times, and it is also toria-- one which will be referred to in the Upper House later in this sess'ional Mr FORDHAM (Footscray)-I raise a period-indeed, tomorrow. point of order. I suggest that the Minister is debating a question by referring to supposed Labor Party atti­ ELECTRICITY SUPPLY FOR ALCOA tudes concerning Portland, Alcoa, OF AUSTRALIA LTD smelters and like matters. The question Mr RICHARDSON (Forest Hill)­ was asked by a member of the Govern­ In view of the reported statements of ment party. It was a specific question, the permanent head of the Federal and it is improper for the Minister to Treasury that State Governments have debate the matter outside the Standing made irresponsible arrangements to Orders which are quite clear. supply electric power to aluminium The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ producers at special confidential low man)-Order! I uphold the point of prices, will the Minister for Minerals order and ask the Minister to come and Energy inform the House whether specifically to the question raised by Alcoa of Australia Ltd. will receive the honourable member for Forest Hill. electricity at a special rate not available Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for to other industrial customers of the Minerals and Energy) -I will do so, but State Electricity Commission; whether it is difficult when one has to put up the arrangement was a secret contract, with such a narrow view of Victoria. It as was the case in the Labor-governed is well known that members of this State of New South Wales, and whether Parliament were informed by the the Victorian Government has followed Premier that Alcoa of Australia Ltd a course of action based on an "alumi­ would be charged for the electricity nium at any price" philosophy, as has consumed in accordance with the State been claimed by prominent members of Electricity Commission standard pub­ the Labor Party? lished all purposes maximum demand schedule tariff M. I remind the Leader Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for of the OppOSition of what he wrote on Minerals and Energy) -The Leader of 10 July 1980. It reads: the Opposition has already compli­ I should like to congratulate the State mented the Government on making Electricity Commission on its openness in pub­ available the tariff schedules for Alcoa. lishing all tariff schedules. I therefore suggest that the Leader of The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ the Opposition will probably agree with man)-Order! Honourable members are the rest of what I have to say. I have reminded that questions are to be not yet had the benefit of reading the specific, brief and to the point. I believe transcript of Mr Stone's evidence the question was specific in three areas before the Senate inquiry last week but and I ask for a brief answer without I am aware of the newspaper reports. debate of the question. Firstly, there is no doubt that the price Mr LIEBERMAN-Out of deference for electricity to be charged to Alcoa of to you, Mr Speaker, I shall not proceed Australia Ltd for its proposed smelter to quote the Leader of the Opposition at Portland will cover costs. That is well but perhaps I can quote the shadow known. spokesman for Minerals anti Energy. 5536 Questions without Notice [ASSEMBLY

Mr AMOS (Morwell)-On a point of House of what the New South Wales order, Mr Speaker, you have already tariff is. The State of Victoria has ruled that the Minister is out of order shown the way in Australia by making in debating the question. If the Minister details of the tariff available to members wants to debate the selective quotes by of the community, the State and Parlia­ the Leader of the Opposition and me, ment. I suggest that if other States will that the State Electricity Commission emulate the example of the Premier chairman disgracefully used as re­ who has made them available-- por-ted in the Age newspaper, we will gladly accommmodate him. However, Mr FORDHAM (Footscray)-On a I submit that the Minister is stray­ point of order, Mr Speaker, I do not ing from the question asked of him by know whether you are prepared to allow his own Liberal Party member. I sug­ the Minister to flout your earlier warn­ gest the Minister should return to ans­ ing. The Minister is smiling with great wering the question that was asked al­ joy at the abuse he is creating in ready. He has been given ample oppor­ this House. He has spent about six or tunity to provide the answers and the seven minutes answering a question fact that he has failed to do so indicates asked by a Government supporter. If the paucity of the argument put for­ we are to start the sessional period with ward. this arrangement at question time I as­ sure you, Sir, that the House will be in The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ disarray by the time the sessional period man)-Order! I ask the Minister is finished. I ask you, Mr Speaker, to whether he clearly heard the question draw the Minister's attention to Stand­ over the noise coming from the Opposi­ ing Orders and the precedent establish­ tion benches. I found it difficult to hear ed for question time. the question. However, I ask the Minis­ ter to answer without debating or The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ elaborating on the specific question. man)-Order! I remind the honourable Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for member for Footscray and members of Minerals and Energy) -As I said, the the Opoosition that although they talk tariff is well publicized. The principles about flouting Standing Orders another of that tariff were established in 1938 Standing Order can be applied regard­ and about 70 companies in Victoria pay ing interjections and disorderly conduct. the same tariff. I do not think Opposition members can be too proud of their performance so The SPEAKER-Order! I ask the hon­ far this evening. Furthermore, I ask ourable member for Keilor to be silent. While the Minister is endeavouring to them to adhere to this request. I ask answer the question, I ask the Leader honourable members to adhere to the of the Opposition not to continue with Speaker's request. I also ask the Min­ a barrage of interjections. ister to adhere to the Chair's request to give brief answers to the question. Mr LIEBERMAN-Many of those 70 companies complain regularly about the The Minister is straying towards a high tariff. The tariff is based on a Ministerial statement, which might be uniform approach and it is a principle appropriate in this situation but as the that is used by most major utilities in question asked is a three-point question, the world, that no single consumer I ask him to give a brief answer to each should be asked to subsidize another of those three points. If a Minister consumer. The Opposition spokesman wishes to give a lengthy answer he may on planning, the honourable member for do so by way of a Ministerial statement. Bundoora, mentioned Mr Stone and what he would think about this matter. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for If one compares Victoria's tariff with Minerals and Energy) -The tariff that other States one will understand. It is is to be charged to Alcoa is well pub­ my understanding that the Leader of licized. I suggest that, if there is to be the Opposition has been in New South any 'criticism of the tariff by any per­ Wales and I hope he will inform the sons, they should first have regard to ] 0 March 1981] Questions wibhout Notice 5537 the energy coal based concept under CASINO which the State Electricity Commission Mr ROPER (Brunswick)-I remind the is planning its power programme for Premier of his statements last week and providing power for Victoria. early this week that a Federal Hotels The first thing honourable members study of community attitudes in Victoria should know is that the rationale behind to casinos showed that 54 per cent of the development of power for Victoria the Victorian public is in favour of a is based on our wonderful brown coal casino for Victoria. Can the Premier resources. It has been estimated that therefore explain how tonight he told we have in excess of 100 billion tonnes the media that there was no community of brown coal. support for such casinos and he then Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi· told the Parliament there was no demon­ tion) -Mr Speaker, I raise a point of strable community support for casinos? order. On three occasions, your atten­ Can he explain why the study that he tion has been drawn to the fact that promoted last week was defective, and the Minister is deliberately flouting your are his earlier statements on casinos ruling and having no regard for the now inoperative? Standing Order. You, Sir, sug~ested to Mr HAMER (Premier)-The honour­ him that he might make a Ministerial able member for Brunswick talks about statement, if he has the courage, but a study which he says I promoted. I did he has not responded to that suggestion. nothing of the kind. That is typical. I suggest that, unless he is prepared It is not a fact. The Parliamentary party to abide by your ruling, you should rule is entitled to decide an issue, as it has him out of order. in the past, on the basis of what it re­ gards as demonstrable public support. The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ It has decided that there is no demon­ man)-The Minister does put the Chair strable public support of the kind which in a difficult position. He must briefly would induce it to proceed, and that answer the questions asked. The Min­ is that. ister is debating the question. He is making a statement regarding the SPECIAL RESOURCES TAX question which is much broader than Mr BROWN (Westernport)-I ask the is acceptable in an'swer to questions in Premier: What is the State Govern­ this place. If we do not have brief ment's attitude to the possibility of a questions and brief answers we will special resources tax for major industrial finish up with very few questions being projects in this State, as forecast by a asked. I ask the Minister to make a senior Federal official, which received brief summary of his answer, otherwise wide media coverage? I also ask the J will simply have to call on the next_ Premier, in relation specifically to the question. vast resources of brown coal in this State: What is this Government's atti­ Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for tude to such a proposal in future? If Minerals and Energy) -In conclusion, the attitude is one that it would be a regarding the comments that have been negative result for the benefit of this made, attributed to Mr Stone, that is, State, does the Premier propose to that the tariff is orientated towards approach the Federal Government to aluminium production are, of course, state this Government's opposition to erroneous because the tariff to be charg­ the proposal? ed is a tariff that recovers the cost and Mr HAMER (Premier)-The attitude also recognizes the potential of Victoria of the Victorian Government would be and the fact that by encouraging invest­ completely opposed to a resources tax ment in Victoria and by establishing as such. The Government is completely new industries, such as Alcoa, there will opposed to such a tax in all its -mani­ be many more jobs created, much more festations. What the Government is, of investment, and Victoria's economy will, course, dedicated to is a suitable of course, continue to prosper. royalty on minerals of all kinds, in- 5538 Questions wibhout Notice [ASSEMBLY cluding coal, 'and that, of course, is the fact, there will be in the ultimate policy that is followed at the moment. reckoning a reduction in the amount of The Government considers that a funds that would have been available royalty ought to be charged on the ex­ had Victoria staged the Olympic Games. traction of all minerals and that it should be applied to the benefit of the SOUTH GIPPSLAND PASSENGER Consolidated Fund. RAIL SCHEDULES I reiterate that the Govemment is Mr MclNNES (Gippsland South)­ completely opposed to a resources tax Has the Minister of Transport con­ charged, presumably, on profits or on sidered the merits of the proposal for some other measure and would certainly alternative passenger rail schedules on resist such a tax because it believes the the South Gippsland line advanced by a best progress will be made if Victoria deputation at Korumburra on 27 uses its undoubted assets to the benefit February and, if so, when can the of the people of the State without the honourable gentleman provide a reply? burden of a resources tax, which can Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ only retard development. port) -VicRail employees in Korum­ burra and surrounding districts made a PUBLIC DISCLOSURE OF CAMPAIGN proposal for a substantially changed DONATIONS time-table. It was a very good effort at Mr ROWE (Essendon)-In view of a practicable change to the rail service the concern in the community regarding presently provided in the area. I have the possibility of donations to the undertaken to the municipalities and to Govemment party to influence the at­ the people who promoted the idea that titude of certain members on the casino I will have it examined carefully by issue, will the Premier now introduce VicRail. It is at present being so legislation to provide that donations to examined by VicRail and I hope to be in the campaign funds of political parties a position to answer the municipalities be publicly disclosed? in the near future. The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ man)-Order! I remind honourable mem­ CASINO bers that imputations are not permitted Mr TREZISE (Geelong North)­ in questions. Therefore, the question is In view of the fact that Melbourne is out of order. becoming known to the tourist and business industries as a cemetery with OLYMPIC GAMES lights on and in view of earlier s'tate­ ments by the Premier that a casino is Mr JASPER (Murray VaUey)­ vital to the future tourist industry of Now that Victoria's bid for the 1988 Victoria and the position of a casino in Olympic Games appears to have failed, the Government's new direction policy, can the Minister for Youth, Sport and can the Premier inform the House of the Recreation indicate whether more funds impact tonight's decision by the Govern­ will be made available to the great num­ ment party not to have a casino will ber of youth, sport and recreation pro­ have on the future of the business and jects throughout Victoria that are cry­ tourist industries of Victoria? ing out for funding? The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ Mr DIXON (Minister for Youth, Sport man)-Order! The question is clearly and Recreation) -The question is, of one for the Minister for State Develop­ course, based on a false premise, that ment, Decentralization and Tourism false premise being that the Olympic and I ask the Minister to answer the Games would have cost the State of question. Victoria some resoUrces. In fact, had the Olympic Games come to Victoria in Mr I. W. SMITH (Minister for State 1988 there would have been an ad­ Development, Decentralization and dition to the resources available to the Tourism)-The question raised by the people of this State. There are, there­ honourable member is receiving my fore, no funds in eXi:ess available. In very deep consideration. 10 March 1981] Questions without Notice 5539 IVANHOE SHOPPING CENTRE about the nature of the advice and a Mr SKEGGS (Ivanhoe)-Is the Min­ legal opinion. He simply asked the ister for Planning able to advise Premier whether he had received the House of his decision about advice. traffic management proposals of the The SPEAKER-Order! The wording Heidelberg City Council in response to of the question as I heard it was would his decision on rezoning recommenda­ the Premier advise the House whether tions affecting an area proposed for Victoria would be subject to compensa­ the redevelopment of the Ivanhoe tion, or along those lines. I call the shopping centre? honourable member for Lowan. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Plan­ Mr GINIFER (Keilor)-On the point ning)-The Heidelberg City Council of order-- has recently reaffirmed its support for Honourable members interjecting. rezoning which will enable an ex'ten­ . The SPEAKER-Order! I ask the sion to the existing Ivanhoe shopping honourable member for Brunswick, centre. I had previously indicated that who has been particularly noisy I would be prepared to recommend tonight, to withdraw that comment. that rezoning in principle subject to traffic management studies being final­ Mr ROPER (Brunswick)-If you ized by the council. The council has mean what I said about Evelyn being recently forwarded its proposals in great doubt, the Opposition does regarding management of traffic and, say so. subject to those being evaluated by The SPEAKER-Order! I did not ask the department, I anticipate that a the honourable member for Brunswick recommendation will be made to the to make a speec'h; I asked him to Governor in Council shortly to enable withdraw the remark. I ask him to do the shopping centre extension to take so without qualification. place and, incidentally, stimulate build­ Mr ROPER-I was asking whether ing activity and provide more jobs for the remark I am supposed to withdraw people. was that Evelyn is in doubt. If you can clarify that, I will be able to with­ CASINO draw it. Mr GINIFER (Keilor)-Can the The SPEAKER-Order! The honour­ Premier assure the House that the able member for Brunswick is per­ State of Victoria is not liable for fectly well aware of the remark I wish damages because of any statement him to withdraw and I ask him to made by himself or on behalf of the withdraw it. Government to Federal Hotels or any other party about the establishment of Mr Wilkes-It is as shaky as another a casino in Victoria? If he can assure twenty seats. the House that the State of Victoria Mr ROPER-I do not. wish to be is not liable, will he table the docu­ pedantic but I want to know whether ments, information and ,advice he has that is the remark you find offensive. received to this effect? If so, I am prepared to withdraw it. The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ I do not know whether that is the man)-Order! The honourable mem­ remark you wish to be withdrawn. ber is asking for a legal opinion, The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ which he would know is out of order man)-Order! The honourable member during questions without notice. for Brunswick has been in this House as long as I have and would know Mr FORDHAM (Footscray)-On a perfectly well that reflections on the point of order, the honourable member Chair or remarks offensive to the Chair did not ask for a legal opinion; he will not be tolerated by the House. asked whether the Premier had I ask him to withdraw that remark to received advice on this matter, not which he is referring. 5540 Questions without Notice [ASSEMBLY

Mr ROPER-I deliberately did not may rephrase the question, as he is mention the Chair. perfectly able to do, to be within the The SPEAKER-Order! The honour­ Standing Orders for question time. able member will withdraw the remark without qualification and without CROPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, debate. HORSHAM Mr ROPER-Mr Speaker, you want Mr McGRATH (Lowan)-In view of me to withdraw the remarks and I the recent statement by the Minister cannot remember the last part of it, of Agriculture that the Treasurer was that the honourable member for Evelyn making available $800 000 for the is in danger, and if you find that offen­ extension of the Victorian Crops Re­ sive, as I am sure you must-- search Institute at Horsham and that The SPEAKER-Order! I ask the tenders were being let as of 1 July, honourable member to withdraw the will the Treasurer give an unequivocal remark without qualification. If he is guarantee that the tenders will be not prepared to do so now, I will name let as of 1 July and an unequivocal him. guarantee that as this amount is only about half the amount of money re­ Mr ROPER-I have said that I shall quired for the completion of the pro­ withdraw the remark if you find it ject, the rest of the money will be offensive. forthcoming so that the building pro­ The SPEAKER-Order! I shall say gramme can be completed? it once more. I ask the honourable Mr THOMPSON (Treasurer)-The member to withdraw the remark with­ project will start in the second part of out qualification. 1981, the first Dart of the new financial Mr ROPER-That is exactly what year. Before giving a definite date, I I have said. should like to check with the Public Mr GINIFER (Keilor)-On a point Works Department to ensure that a of order-- date as specific as that can be adhered to. The SPEAKER-There is no point of order. I ask the honourable member TULLAMARINE AIRPORT to withdraw without qualification. Mr McARTHUR (Ringwood)-I refer Mr ROPER (Brunswick)-That is to the commendable and continuing what I did. representations of the Premier to his Federal colleagues that Tullamarine The SPEAKER-Order! I ask the airport should be used to its full poten­ honourable member to stand on his feet tial by the introduction of low cost now and withdraw the remark without international air charter services into qualifica tion. Australia. Can the Premier indicate Mr ROPER-I withdraw, certainly. whether any progress and developments Mr GINIFER (Keilor)-I directed a can be reported in this area? question to the Premier and asked, as Mr HAMER (Premier)-The Vic­ you have said, Sir, a legal opinion. If torian Government has consistenly that was out of order, I also draw supported cheaper air fares for travel­ to your attention that I asked the lers into Australia, particularly services Premier whether he would table the terminating at Tullamarine airport. At documents which adverted to the ques­ present both Laker Airways Pty Ltd tion that I raised. I should like the and British Caledonian Airways have Premier to answer whether he will made proposals to the authorities in table the documents. Britain to fly services to Tullamarine. The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ The Victorian Government as a man)-Perhaps the simplest way out whole has supported those propo­ of that situation is that I will give sitions without selecting either one. the honourable member for Keilor the The hearings have been completed in next call on the Opposition side. He London and we are now awaiting a 10 March 1981] Questions without Notice 5541 decision. I am confident that one or two squads with two' dogs. The train­ other or both of the organizations will ing will be completed in time for the receive the authority to fly here. Mem­ first two oog squads to take up duty, bers of the Opposition ought to wel­ with one squad based at Pentridge come--- Prison to serve at Pentridge, Fairlea An Honourable Member-We do. and Geelong prisons and the Gippsland Mr HAMER-If that is what the prisons and the second squad based at honourable member believes he should Ararat Prison to operate at prisons in say so. Members of the Oppo'sition Ararat and in the northern part of ought to welcome the additional Victoria. tourism that these new chea'per air . After June or July it is anticipated fares will generate. that each of these two-man two-dog squads .will be enlarged by a further CASINO two handlers and 'a further two dogs Mr GINIFER (Keilor)-Has the so that by the end of the year it is Premier received advice concerning a hoped to have two fully trained statement alleged to have been made German Shepherd dog squads each as a state·ment of intent on behalf of with four dogs for Victorian prisons. the Government in relation to Federal I might add that the kennel facilities Pacific Hotels or any other party about at both Pentridge Prison and Ararat the statement on the estaoblishment of Prison are alS() nearing c~mpletion. a casino in Victoria? If so, will the honourable gentleman table the docu­ With respec't to the other part of ment? the honourable member's question, rather than take up the time. of the Mr HAMER (Premier)-The answer House by detailing all the additional is, "No". No such statement has been security measures that have been made. employed, I mention that only this week the Minister of Public . Works PRISON SECURITY announced tenders for the purchase. of Mr CRELLIN (Sandringham)-In two-way radio equipment for several view of the widespread community prisons in Victoria. I anticipate that aU concern, which is supported by mem­ prisons will be equipped with two-way bers of the prison service and the radios within the ne~t two or three Vietoria Police, concerning security in months. Victorian prisons, can the Minister for Community Welfare Services advise CONVENTION CENTRE honourable members of any new Mr SIMPSON (Niddrie)-I refer the measures that have been taken and the Premier to his continued and repeated progress that has been made with the introduction of trained ·handlers and statement of the importance of a con­ vention centre to the Victorian qualified dogs to assist in these ser­ economy and the tourist industry and vices? the belief by private industry that a Mr JONA (Minister for Community convention centre may not be Welfare Services)-I shall answer the economically conducted unless it is second part of the honourable mem­ operated in conjunction with a casino. ber's question first. In relation' to the There must be no misunderstanding: proposed dog squad for Victorian I reiterate the Premier's repeated state­ prisons, I am happy to advise that the ment of the need for a convention training of the first dog squads is well centre to be run in conjunction with a advanced. At this stage four dogs from casino, and for that to bean economic the Kamaan Kennels have been viability for private industry it is obtained and two handlers are cur­ necessary for the two to operate in rently in training with two dogs in concert. Will the Premier now conduct each of the squads. This amounts to a review of his Government's policy on 5542 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY convention centres and, in particular, the money creatively and flexibly. The will he make a submission to the House amount of money received is not as on the cost to the taxpayers of any important. I hope to be able to an­ convention centre before the Govern­ nounce the new programme in the next ment gives approval for it? four weeks which will be to the advant­ Mr HAMER (Premier)-Most people age of most people, particularly those who have studied the situation con­ who are on the welfare waiting list. sider, as I consider, that a convention centre would be a tremendous asset PETITIONS to our tourist industry. We regard the Community education centre construction of a well-designed con­ Mr WALSH (Albert Park) presented vention centre as essential, attracting a petition from certain citizens pray­ about 25 per cent of all visitors. The ing that action be taken to provide the actual financing of such a centre is a promised education centre at Richard­ matter of Government policy that will son Street, Middle Park. He stated be announced at the proper time and that the petition was respectfully accompanied by an estimate of costs. worded, in order, and bore 390 signa­ tures. HOUSING COMMISSION POLICY DIRECTION It was ordered that the petition be laid on the table. Mr HANN (Rodney)-I ask the Min­ ister of Housing: Is it a fact that the Pensions for mental hospital inpatients Housing Commission has a new policy direction and that it will abandon its Mr CAIN (Bundoora) presented a traditional role of urban development petition from certain citizens praying and home building and, if that is the that the House take such action as it case, can the Minister outline details of may to ensure that State deductions that new policy? from Commonwealth pensions paid to mental hospital inpatients are fixed at a Mr KENNETT (Minister of Hous­ level which will allow patients to re­ ing) -It is quite true that I am cur­ ceive at least $44·80 per fortnight for rently reviewing all programmes in their personal needs. He stated that the which the Housing Commission is now petition was respectfully worded, in involved because of a reduction in order, and bore 419 signatures. funds from the Federal Government. One of the moves is definitely to reduce It was ordered that the petition be the number of staff because I cannot laid on the table. justify to the community maintaining the current level of bureaucracy in the Health and human relations courses lip-ht of the 30 per cent cut in funds. Mr BURGIN (Polwarth) presented a That is unlike Labor Party members petition from certain citizens praying who consider that "jobs for the boys" that action be taken to suspend all are more important than the provision health and human relations courses of shelter. In the next four weeks I hope conducted in Victorian schools and to to be able to announce a new pro­ appoint a Select Committee to inquire gramme which will give the commu­ into the subject-matter. He stated that nity some degree of positive direction the petition was respectfully worded, in for a new flexible management of our order, and bore 18 signaures. reduced funds. It was ordered that the petition be It should be remembered that simply laid on the table. because funds have been reduced does not necessarily mean that the Govern­ Swinborn ment cannot provide more housing. I Mr HANN (Rodney) presented a can understand the Labor Party's petition from certain citizens praying hilarity because Opposition members that the House take action to ensure would not understand how to handle that 85 per cent of the funding re­ money. It is a matter of how one uses quired to meet the costs of Swin- 10 March 1981] Papers 5543 born be provided to enable the Mel­ Statutory Rules under the following Acts: bourne City Mission to continue to Agricultural Chemicals Act 1958-No. operate Swinborn. He stated that the 13/198l. petition was respectfully worded, in Architects Act 1958-No. 454/1980. Business Franchise (Tobacco) Act 1974, order, and bore 20 signatures. Business Franchise (Petroleum) Act 1979 It was ordered that the petition be -No. 460/1980. laid on the table. Chiropodists Act 1968-No. 27/198l. Community Welfare Services Act 1970-No. 25/198l. COMMAND PAPER Consumer Affairs Act 1972-No. 472/1980. Mr THOIVIPSON (Treasurer) present­ Country Fire Authority Act 1958-Nos. ed, by command of His Excellency 458/1980, 1, 2, 22/1981. the Governor, the report of the Join~ Environment Protection Act 1970-Nos. Actuaries on their investigation of the 477/1980, 7/198l. Superannuation Fund at the expiration Fisheries Act 1968-Nos. 492/1980, 18, of the triennium ended 30 June 1977. 32/198l. Forests Act 1958-Nos. 16, 38/198l. It was ordered that the report be laid Geelong Harbor Trust Act 1958-No. on the table and be printed. 464/1980. Hairdressers Registration Act 1958-No. PAPERS 493/1980. The following papers, pursuant to the Health Act 1958-No. 46111980. Hospitals Superannuation Act 1965-No. directions of several Acts of Parlia­ 476/1980. ment, were laid on the table by the Industrial Training Act 1975-Nos. 467, 471, Clerk 489/1980, 15/1981. Albury-Wodonga (Victoria) Corporation- Law Reform Act 1973-No. 17/1981. Report for the year 1978-79. Legal Profession Practice Act 1958-Nos. Building Societies-Report of the Registrar for 473, 480, 496/1980. the year 1978-79.-0rdered to be printed. Liquor Control Act 1958-No. 35/1981. Education-Report of the Council of Public Local Government Act 195B-No. 495/1980. Education for the year 1979-80.-0rdercd to be printed. Magistrates' Courts Act 1971, the Magistrates (Summary Proceedings) Act 1975, the Fisheries Act 1968-Report of the Commercial Landlord and Tenant Act 1958 and the Fisheries Section, Fisheries and Wildlife Acts Interpretation Act 1958-Nos. 481, Division for the year 1978-79. 482/1980. Housing Commission Land Purchases-Order in Marine Act 195B-Nos. 487, 488, 500/1980. Council Authorizing Maximum Expenditure of the Royal Commission into Housmg Com­ Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works mission Land Purchases. Act 1958-No. 463/1980. Legal Profession Practice Act 1958-Report of . Mental Health Act 1959-No. 459/1980. the Lay Observer for the year 1979 to the­ Milk and Dairy Supervision Act 1958-No. Barristers' Disciplinary Tribunal 469/1980. Solicitors' Disciplinary Tribunal. Motor Boating Act 1961-Nos. 457, 486, Melhourne University-Report of the Council 494/1980. for the year 1979 together with Statutes Motor Car Act 1968-Nos. 455, 490/1980. approved by His Excellency during 1979. Motor Car Traders Act 1973-No. 485/1980. iV1elbourne Wholesale Fruit and Vegetable Mt. Hotham Alpine Resort Act 1972-No. Market Trust Report for the year 1979-80. 11/1981. Railways Act 1950-Report of the Victorian Parliamentary Committees Act 196B-No. Railways Board for the Quarters ended 30 30/1981. June, 30 September and 31 December, 1980 Pay-roll Tax Act 1971-Nl>. 456/1980. (three papers) < Physiotherapists Act 197B-No. 470/1980. River Murray Commission-Report for the year 1979-80. Poisons Act 1962-No. 3/1981. State Superannuation Fund-Report of the Police Regulation Act 1958-Nos. 484/1980, Joint Actuaries upon the Twelfth Investigation 4, 12/198l. for the Trie'1nium toned 30 June 1977.­ Portland Harbor Trust Act 1958-Nos Ordered to Le printed. 501/1980, 31/1981. State College of Victoria-Report and State­ Port of Melbourne Authodty Act 1958-No. ment of Acc:ounts for t.he year 1979. 37/1981 5544 Papers [ASSEMBLY

Post-Secondary Education Act 1978-Nos. Kyabram-Town of Kyabram Planning 465, 483/1980, 9, 14/198l. Scheme, Amendment No. 24 (1980): Protection of Animals Act 1966-No. 34/198l. Lakes Entrance-Shire of Tambo (Lakes Public Service Act 1974-Nos. 479, 497 to Entrance) Planning Scheme, Amendment 499/1980, 8, 23, 24/1981; PSD Nos. 137, No. 30. 144 to 148, 150 to 153/1980, 2 to 30, 32 to LilIydale-Shire of Lillydale Planning 35/198l. Scheme, Amendment No. 130. Public Works Committee Act 1958-No. Lorne Planning Scheme, Amendment No. 1. 29/198l. Melbourne Metropolitan Planning Scheme, Racing Act 1958-Nos. 478/1980, 19 to Amendment Nos. 3 (Part ID), 90 (Part 4), 21/1981. 114 (Parts lA, Is), 128, 135, 137 (Part lA), Road Traffic Act 1958-Nos. 26, 33/198l. 161, (eight papers). Seeds Act 1971-No. 474/1980. Moe-City of Moe Planning Scheme, Amend­ State Development Committee Act 1958- ment No. 55, (Part 2). No. 28/1981. Newham and Woodend-Shire of Newham State Employees Retirement Benefits Act 1979 and Woodend Planning Scheme 1975, Nos. 491/1980, 1O/198l. Amendment No. 9 (1980). Stock Diseases Act 1968-No. 5/198l. Portland-Town of Portland Planning Stock Medicines Act 1958-No. 6/1981. Scheme, Amendment Nos. 24, 26 (two Supreme Court Act 1958-No. 475/1980. papers) . Swine Compensation Act 1967-No. 468/1980. Sale-City of Sale Planning Scheme 1975, Weights and Measures Act 1958-No. Amendment No. 9 (1980). 462/1980. Shepparton-City of Shepparton Planning Wildlife Act 1975-No. 36/198l. Scheme 1953, Amendment Nos. 48 (1979), Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement Authority­ 53 (1980), (two papers). Statement of Accounts for the period ending Sherbrooke-Shire of Sherbrooke Planning 30 June, 1979. Scheme 1965, Amendment Nos. 121c, 133, Teaching Service Act 1958: (two papers). Teaching Service-Primary Schools Division Traralgon-City of Traralgon Planning (Classification, Salaries and Allowances) Scheme 1957-Amendment Nos. 13 (1979), Regulations-Regulations amended (Nos. 20 (1980), (two papers). 529, 534), (two papers). Warragul Planning Scheme 1954, Amendment Teaching Service-Professional (Classifica­ No. 37 (1980). tion, Salaries and Allowances) Regulations Werribee-Shire of Werribee Planning -Regulations amended (Nos. 523, 526, Scheme 1963, Amendment No. 44A. 528), (three papers). Willaura-Shire of Ararat (Willaura) Plan­ Teaching Service-Secondary Schools ning Scheme, Amendment No. 2. Division (Classification, Salaries and Wimmera-Shire of Wimmera (Horsham Allowances) Regulations-Regulations Boundary) Planning Scheme, Amendment amended (Nos. 535, 538, 539), (three No. 3 (1980). papers) . Woorayl-Shire of Woorayl Planning Scheme, Teaching Service (Teachers Tribunal) Regu­ Amendment Nos. 42, 43 (1979), (two lations-Regulations amended (Nos. 524, papers) . 525, 527, 530, 531, 533, 537), (seven Town and Country Planning Board-Report for papers) . the year 1979-80.-0rdered to be printed. Teaching Service-Technical Schools Division Teacher Housing Authority-Report for the (Classification, Salaries and Allowances) year 1979-80.-0rdered to be printed. Regulations-Regulations amended (Nos. Victoria Institute of Colleges-Report and 532,536), (two papers). Statement of Accounts for the year 1979. Town and Country Planning Act 1961: Victorian Public Offices Corporation-Report on Ballaarat-City of Ballaarat Planning Scheme, the Exercise of Powers in relation to Property Amendment Nos. 57, 59 (1980), (two Transact.ions to December 1980 papers) . Victorian Public Offices Corporation-Report Bunninyong-Shire of Bunninyong Planning for the vear 1979-80. Scheme, Amendment No. 13. Youth Sport and Recreation-Report for the Cranbourne-Shire of Cranbourne (Western year 1979-80.-0rdered to be printed. Port) Planning Scheme, Amendment No. 16 (1980). SHORT TITLES OF BILLS Frankston-City of Frankston Planning Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ Scheme, Amendment No. 20, Part 11 (1978), 24 (1979),31 (1980), (three papers). port) -By leave, I move: Heyfield-Shire of Maffra Planning Scheme That the Clerk of the Parliaments be em­ (Heyfield Township), Amendment No. 10 powered to correct the short titles in Bills (1980). which may hereafter pass both Houses during Horsham-City of Horsham Planning Scheme the current sessional period by omitting "1980" 1973, Amendment No. 56 (1980). where occurring and inserting "1981". Kilmore-Shire of Kilmore Planning Scheme, This will avoid the necessity for the Amendment No. 45 (1980). Knox-City of Knox Planning Scheme 1965, House on occasions passing an amend­ Amendment Nos 204, 212 (1979), (two ment to correct short titles and exchang­ papers) . ing messages backwards and forwards 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5545 with another place. It will be necessary GOVERNMENT ECONOMIC AND for another place to pass a similar reso­ SOCIAL STRATEGY lution. It is part of the upgrading of the Mr WILKES (Leader of the Oppo­ procedures of the House, a useful step sition) -I move: which I believe should be adopted. That this House notes the document issued Mr FORDHAM (Footscray)-This by the Premier on 11 December entitled "Jobs from Growth" and deplores the attempt by the matter was the subject of discussion Government to deceive the people of Victoria between the parties and the Opposition by producing a document based on shallow and concurs that it would be in the interests meaningless rhetoric and expresses its concern of expediting the business of the House at the continuing failure of the Government to develop a detailed economic and social strategy that such a motion be agreed to. I to maximize employment opportunities in this hope the same spirit of co-operation State. will be evident in dealings between the 1 should have thought that today the parties throughout the current sessional Government would have taken the period. opportunity of listening to what the The motion was agreed to. Opposition had to say about its per­ formance since the last election, but WANT OF CONFIDENCE IN that was not to be the case. The GOVERNMENT Premier decided that he did not want the Opposition to proceed with its Mr WILKES (Leader of the Oppo­ motion on this occasion. sition) -By leave, I move: That this Government no longer possesses the Mr Hamer-Tomorrow. confidence of the House. Mr WILKES-The Premier forgets Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ that the matter of Sessional Orders port) -Leave is refused. takes preference over the motion again tomorrow and it will be Thursday Mr FORDHAM (Footscray)-Mr before the Opposition will have an Speaker, I ask you to consider the past opportunity of expressing its dissatis­ precedent of the House in dealing with faction, on behalf of the people of Vic­ motions of want of confidence. A Gov­ toria, in the performance of this Gov­ ernment that runs away from such a ernment. If the Premier examines the fundamental motion should see itself position more closely, he will find that as in disgrace, and that is the view of by the intention of his Government, the Victorian community. The Govern­ through the Leader of the House, the ment should consider its position. Opposition will have no more than five The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ and one-half hours during this sessional man)-Order! This is not a matter for period to move motions of no confi­ debate. Leave is not granted. The Oppo­ dence and motions of adjournment. sition can give notice of motion, if it The honourable member interjects and wishes to do so. says that that is too long. The Oppo­ sition and the third party will have Mr WILKES (Leader of the Oppo­ only five and a half hours to utilize sition) -In the light of the Govern­ the forms of the House to move ment's decision to run away from the motions of want of confidence and motion, 1 desire to give notice that similar urgency motions. It is a disgrace tomorrow 1 will move that this Govern­ and an indictment of the Premier and ment no longer possesses the confi­ of his Government. dence of the House. If one looks at the calendar, one sees that during the current sessional HOURS OF SITTING period there will be three occasions Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ for a Grievance Day debate on a port) -I move: Thursday. That being the case, there That the House, at its rising, adjourn until is a further restriction on the Opposi­ tomorrow, at half-past ten o'clock. tion and the third party as to when The motion was agreed to. they can utilize the miserable time Session 1981-191 5546 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY allowed on a Thursday to move such In his policy cpeech in 1973, the hon­ motions. If ever this Government built ourable gentleman said that material a fence around itself, it is doing so now. welfare is not the sole criterion of pro­ On behalf of the Opposition, I gress. He stated that Victoria needs express total dissatisfaction with growth, prosperity and job opportuni­ the attitude of the Government ties for young people and migrants, but which is acting in contempt of the not at any price. Since that new direc­ best interests of this Parliament. tion was announced, the honourable In studying the initiation of new gentleman has introduced other state­ directions, I, as a Victorian, believe the ments about coal conversion, the ICI new direction policies should work; I plant at Point Henry, new investments certainly hope that they will work,. from overseas and a general unspecified However, after careful examination of boom being under way. those proposed policies, or so-called Late in 1973 on radio station 3XY, new directions, I am convinced beyond the Premier's favourite radio station, doubt that they cannot and will not he said that the Ministries of the Arts, work. Consumer Affairs, Conservation, Plan­ Last year, the Government's position ning and Youth, Sport and Recreation was similar to that of a failing manu­ would transform the face of society. facturer: Its product had fared well in Some of those Ministers have trans­ the market for many years but the con­ formed their portfolios and have been sumers had come to realize that new moved into other portfolios; none of and better products were available, pro­ them has transformed the face of ducts that would give a better result; society and none could. the Government's products were slip­ In his policy speech in 1976, the ping in the market place--obviously, Premier again saw the building of a something had to be done. You, Mr true co-operative Federalism as a pro­ Speaker, will realize that any sensible per arrangement of financial responsi­ and responsible manufacturer would bility and resources between Federal, turn his attention to producing a better State and local governments as a key product to win back some of the mar­ to providing a better and fairer society. ket share and that a less responsible That was another romancing of the manufacturer would seek to sell the Premier about new initiatives. All hon­ same old product under a new name ourable members know where new with perhaps a very expensive adver­ Federalism and that new direction took tising campaign and lots of phrases Victoria-to a period of severe budget­ about it in the news. ary constraints caused by Federal cut­ Needless to say, the Government backs unprecedented in the history of decided to adopt the second and less Victoria. responsible course. It is not the first A few years later, with another elec­ time that the Government has adopted tion on the way, there was another a less responsible way by pretending new story. This time, according to the that it is on a new track. The first new Premier's policy speech, all Victoria direction was announced by the Pre­ needed was confidence in its future mier in 1973 in his policy speech. Since and faith. "New growth and develop­ then, another new direction was pro­ ment and job opportunities are within posed by the Premier, that of a casino our grasp," said the honourable gentle­ and what casinos will do for jobs from man, "we should not fail, we can do it growth in the State. Unfortunately, and we will do it." events of today and over the past twelve months suggest that the Premier In an address to the Liberal Party has no more hope of getting a casino State Conference in July 1980, the policy through the Liberal Party than honourable gentleman produced another a back-bencher in that party. That is key to a better society: That agricul­ the first recent new direction that has ture and an expansion of agricultural been shot down and the Premier has production was to be the key to Vic­ to seek other new directions. toria's prosperity. By September 1980, Mr Wilkes 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5547

Victoria's problems had become so bad and development, less unemployment and that far-reaching steps were needed greater economic prosperity for the benefit of to be taken to improve the credibility all Victorians. of the Government. Everything else What about the Premier putting some­ had failed. thing into the Ministry for Employment and Training? At the same time, the Finally, in December 1980, after the Ministers of Labour and Industry, Federal election-and all honourable Employment and Training and Educa­ members know the reason for a new tion, are squabbling over how to divide directions policy after the Federal elec­ up the Industrial Training Commission, tion-there was the new directions the technical education field and other policy itself. There is no doubt that the areas of Government commitment, with new initiatives by the Government were no apparent results. Indeed, I under­ the product of what occurred after that stand that these can be shared by two Federal election. There is not very much Ministries but the Industrial Training new about the Government setting out Commission is still under the jurisdic­ on a new direction. More importantly, tion of the Department of Labour and on examination, there is not much new Industry. in those new directions. The second initiative was the merg­ Stripped of all the cliches and the ing of the Victoria Promotion Com­ rhetoric, the new directions policy con­ mittee with the Victorian Development tains four aspects. Firstly, there was to Corporation. That, too, was Australia be a Ministry for Employment and Labor Party policy, a policy which as Training. That, of course, is Australia recently as last year the honourable Labor Party policy which, before the gentleman said was unnecessary-also last State election, the Government before the Federal election. said was unnecessary but that is now a new direction by the Government The third initiative was the renaming and has become Government policy. of the Ministry of State Development, The only difference is that the Govern­ Decentralization and Tourism. Tourism ment still has not provided a Budget would, of course, stay with the Premier for the new Ministry. It has provided so that he could continue to spend as the Budget for the propaganda associ­ much time overseas as he spends in ated with that new Ministry because Victoria. The new Ministry is to be today I received a letter from the Pre­ headed by a businessman and not a mier headed "Jobs from growth cam­ public servant. With the "Jobs for the paign" which reads: Boys" appointments made since the Thank you for your letter of December 23, last election, I live in fear of just who 1980, in connection with the "Jobs from might be appointed. Growth" campaign. Finally, the Government proposes "to The total amount budgeted for the campaign eliminate all unnecessary restraint and to date has been $170000. More specifically, this amount can be broken into three areas: restrictions which hamper develop­ a) Production costs of material ,ment". That final aspect is a potentially for use in the print and elec- sinister switch in emphasis by the tronic media ...... , 35,640.00 Government. b) Advertising costs in print and electronic media '. .. 129,978.50 Take your mind back, Mr. Speaker, c) Printing costs...... 4,381.50 to last November. Picture the scene in the Premier'S office; "it is not difficult to $170,000.00 imagine. The Victorian Federal election results had created panic amongst State That is the only budget made available and Federal members of the Liberal for the new directions project. In the Party. The Premier is confronted by a final paragraph of the letter, the Pre­ panel of powerful businessmen who are mier stated: demanding to know why Victoria, with I would urge you and all other members of 27 per cent 'Of Australia's population State Parliament and their supporters to give complete support to this campaign which is and 35 per cent of the manufacturing non-partisan and designed to promote growth industry, is attracting only 8 per cent 5548 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY of investments associated with the not, allegedly has nothing to do with $33 billion resources boom. Those his Government, which has been in businessmen want answers from the office for 26 years and which first made Premier, who is under 'constant 'attack the regulations and then imposed staff from the labor Party and the press ceilings on top 'Of the regulations that over his expensive handouts to Alcoa of gummed up the works altogether. Now Australia ltd, which the Minister f'Or a maj'Or problem still remains-trying Minerals and Energy tried to justify to convince people that this time the tonight and failed dismally. Following Premier will finaUy make something the Opposition's proof that the State happen. Electricity Com'mission had broken The answer to this is to spend loose from Ministerial control, the Pre­ $170000 of taxpayers' money on an ad­ mier realized that the former Minister vertising campaign featuring the Pre­ for Minerals and Energy had to go. mier and his new Ministry. In other One knows what happened from then words, employ the same lack of in­ on. tegrity Victoria has seen from this A dozen liberal back-benchers have Government time and again. been howling for action to save their m'arginal seats at the next State elec­ The Age on 30 December last year tion. Mr Speaker, can you imagine the wrote of the campaign: dilemma? The "Western District rump", Its sole purpose is to publicize Liberal Party policies-and Ministers-and to sell them to which has the numbers in the Cahinet, the voters in an attractive package, has made the small "l" a dead letter in the Liberal Party ,alphabet. The Pre­ And that is precisely what it does. I mier was obviously confronted with a continue the quote: dreadful problem and the dilemma of This partisan piece of self promotion will cost where to turn. What was he going to Victorian taxpayers $170000. do? It was obvious that scapegoats had At the same time the Hamer Government is cutting off funds to groups assisting low-in­ to be found to deflect some of the CJ'1i­ come tenants and people seeking lodging. ticism away from the Premier, and the It is doing so on the grounds of reducing Melbourne City Council was the most wasteful Government spending. obvious target. So, too, were the red There is no excuse for such a blatant misuse tape equals the bureaucrats; the strikes of taxpayers' money. eq ual the trade unionists and the de­ The advertising campaign is of no value to lays equal the environmentalists and the public; the only interests it serves are community groups. About the only thing those of the Liberal party. the Premier did not kick at that time The Victorian branch of the Liberals £hould was the Communist can. offer immediately to reimburse the State Treasury for the whole costs of the campaign­ The fourth new direction is about so that Government funds can be spent where punishing these scapegoats. The Pre­ they are needed. mier promised to "apply all 'Our strength That is absolutely correct. The liberal against industrial demands which in­ Party should repay that money at once, crease costs and prices". That is one and if it does not it 'is guilty of having for the trade unionists. What is the effectively stolen public funds and put Premier going to do about conspiratorial them to the liberal Party use and lockouts such as at loy Yang? The Pre­ there is no other explanation for it. At mier says he iintends that the "fuiure of least the Age had the courage to come Victoria should not be held back by out and tell the Premier what it thought small sectors of 'Our community who about it. have a completely destructive attitude That fact shows, above all else, that towards development and growth". the new directions policy ,is not new. Bang go Victoria's environmental safe­ It is merely the same tired and 'worn guards and already inadequate out Government trying to pretend it has procedures for community consultation. changed 'its spots. The new directions The Premier promises to "reduce policy is not worth very much of the costly delays in the obtaining of per­ time of the Parliament. I do not want to mits and consents". That, believe it or take up much of that time but I do Mr Wilkes 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5549 want to suggest some alternative ap­ Lastly, and most importantly, Vic­ proaches that could and should be toria needs a change of Government so adopted. The Labor Party suggests a that a Government with the will to real new directions 'Policy. make the changes necessary can get 'On Firstly, the Government should set up with the job. a series of regional planning authorities Victoria does not want public rela­ with staffs directed by local com'muni­ Nons posturing. Victoria does not want ties. They should be given ,the job of cosmetic changes, nor does it want develop,ing the best and most effective changes of policy 'with changes 'Of the econom ic plans for their area in the wind. Victoria needs a Government that light of whatever comparative advan­ can make decisions and stick to those tage they have or can create. decisions. This Government is not such Secondly, the Government must make a Government, and that is the reason a real commitment to developing alter­ why the Government's new directions native energy sources-a labour inten­ cannot work. sive high-technology area-which will Mr HAMER (Premier)-One of the give Victoria strength for the future, problems about deaHng with the motion while having an immediate impact on is that what has been said has very regional unemployment and economic little relation to the wording of the growth. motion. I remind the House of the last words of the motion, which the Leader Thirdly, the Government should of the Opposition hardly dealt with. It establish an energy authority, which refers to the Hfailure of the Government will develop a comprehensive energy to develop a detailed econ'Omic and social policy for the whole of Victoria. strategy to maximize employment op­ Fourthly, the Governmen t should portunities in this State". firmly reject industrial confrontation This very day, the Government and work towards creating a situation has issued a new document called in which Government, the unions and Victoria's Strategy for the Eighties, the community co-operate for the com­ which does precisely that. mon good. Victoria does not want any The whole purpose of the strategy, more Loy Yangs. which is also sub-titled "jobs from Fifthly, the Government should up­ growth", is to flesh out the outline grade Victoria's public transport system. which the Government issued in Dec­ By so doing, it would increase patronage ember on where it saw Victoria going and relieve the pressures on urban roads in the 1980s. It is based on a recog­ and ensure that all citizens and com­ nition that the 1980s represent a very panies have access to a fast and effi­ different situation from the 1970s and cient pasenger and distribution system. obviously from the 1960s. The two main changes which are recognized in Sixthly, the Government must under­ that situation are, firstly, in energy take a complete 'and thorough review reserves and the cost of energy and of all Government administration. That secondly, in the new technology which review is long overdue. When a Govern­ is dislodging people, by machinery, ment has been in power for too long, computers and micro-processors, from as this Government has, the Govern­ their traditional jobs and creating new ment's apparatus grows like Topsy and jobs which have to be identified and needs periodic analysis to ensure that for which people have to be trained. it efficiently meets the real needs of all The additional cost of energy is a sections of the community. problem for all Governments but also provides a tremendous opportunity for Seventhly, Victoria needs a vision not development in Victoria. for the next few months and the next election, but for the 21 st century-a These things are recognized by this vision of a better and stronger Victoria, document. Its very existence answers in which all people have equal access the wording of the motion which, for to the wealth Victoria can produce. some reason, the Leader of the Oppo- 5550 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY s~tion did not even refer to. It pro­ Mr Fogarty-But you do not have vides the strategy for Victoria in the the markets. , 1980s and is based on the best advice the Government can obtain from in­ Mr HAMER-We have the markets dustry, commerce, economists and ad­ and the prices. The honourable mem­ visers of all kinds. The Government ber for Sunshine will agree that on has had a team working on this the whole, prices for agricultural prod­ strategy for some months and that ucts are better than they have been team has produced a blueprint for the for some years, just as is the outlook future. for the years ahead. If we had a less negative Opposition Secondly, Victoria has enormous re­ and an Opposition which was prepared ~erves of energy and this will be an to be more constructive rather than Im.mense advantage in the future. The simply condemn and denigrate Vic­ prIce of energy increased so dramatic­ toria, we could have concerted sup­ ally in the 1970s that it will be an port for this kind of operation. Never­ enormous advantage in the 1980s for theless, the Government intends that any country to have these sources of this strategy will be the blueprint for energy. Nearly all of Australia's oil the 1980s and honourable members output comes from Bass Strait and a will find, if they study it, that it large proportion of its natural gas covers the whole field of operations. reserves are also located in Bass Strait. First of all, it begins with an assess­ Above all and most important, Victoria ment of Victoria's undoubted assets has the world's largest known reserves and advantages and that consists of of brown coal or lignite, the reserves five main fields. being estimated at 130000 million ton.nes. ~hat. is the second advantage Firstly, in the field of agriculture, whIch VIctOrIa possesses and it is a for some reason the Leader of p!ty that the Leader of the Opposition the Opposition tried to denigrate this dId not take note of what lies ahead State. I do not know why he should in the future of Victoria in relation do that because Victorian agriculture to its assets. is undoubtedly productive and diverse in nature and much more reliable than The third advantage is the manufac­ that of any other part of Australia. In turing capacity of this State, together fact, this rather small segment of the with its skilled manpower. If honour­ Australian mainland-Victoria com­ able members examine Victoria's prises only 3 per cent of the land strategy for the 1980s they will find surface of Australia-produces about that this is recognized and it is im­ une-quarter of Australia's total agri­ portant that we as a Government, and cultural output and the Government I hope as a Parliament, encourage the believes this State is capable of lifting additional skills and apprenticeship that production even further. Even training required by manufacturing in­ using existing technology and tech­ dustries. Indeed, the introduction of niques it is estimated by the Depart­ new forms of apprenticeship comes ment of Agriculture that Victoria can under the control of the Minister for lift its agricultural output by 25 per Employment and Training-the Leader cent. In answer to the interjection, of the Opposition has misled the House I am speaking about the 1980s. That is in that respect. The Minister for Em­ the objective which the Government ployment and Training is in charge and has set and which it intends to en­ he has a responsibility to encourage courage, not just for the traditional apprenticeship and other forms of skill outputs using traditional crops but training. even for new crops which can be The fourth advantage possessed by introduced. As a Government it is our Victoria resides in its financial and objective to encourage research and manageriaJ strength located largely in development to take place which in the capital city. The fifth advantage turn will encourage additional output. lies in Victoria's geographical position M, Hamer 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5551 in relation to the rest of Australia and are based on common sense, on re­ the Pacific basin, which, as the Leader search and on a firm appreciation of of the Opposition knows, is the area what Victoria has by way of potential. of greatest potential economic develop­ ment in the world, flanked as it is by Let us have less denigration of Vic­ the main industrial nations, the United toria's performance. As Victorians let States of America on the east side and us have a proper pride in what we Japan on the west side. Japan also can achieve. I have that pride and I happens to be Australia's largest trad­ wish the Leader of the Opposition ing partner. would show the same pride as a Victorian. The Leader of the Oppo­ Those are the five advantages which sition states to the House that the new Victoria has and which are set out in directions "should work" and so they the new directions for the 1980s and should because they are sensible and fleshed out in this document, "Vic­ are based on achievable objectives and toria's Strategy for the 1980s". In other represent a firm appraisal of what Vic­ words, what the Government has done toria has to offer. All that is required is precisely what the Leader of the are incentives, support and encourage­ Opposition was talking about. The Gov­ ment, and that ought to come from the ernment has outlined economic and Parliament. social strategy to maximize employ­ ment opportunities in this State. What the Government can do without is the kind of negative thinking that Mr Jolly-Who wrote the document? results in members trying to run down what has been achieved, and failing Mr HAMER-A lot of people made to recognize what this State is capable an input into it. I hope the Oppo­ sition, if it were in the same position, of. would do the same thing and draw The jobs from growth campaign was on the views of a wide variety of a necessary action. It needed publicity people, including the economic advisers to achieve support, and the Government panel, various departments, chambers makes no apology for the expenditure of manufactures, the Victorian Em­ incurred on pUblicity, which is a frac­ ployers Federation and so on. It is tion of what is being spent in New a very good document, as any fair­ South Wales. When the Government minded person would recognize. has a programme, it has an obliga­ As a Government we intend to pur­ tion to bring it before the people of sue this policy because we recognize Victoria. that private enterprise will provide The interesting thing is that the most of the jobs, but it all depends publicity has a little jingle that goes on growth, and therefore the Govern­ with it. It is not a bad little song; it ment is committed to promoting growth is rather catchy. I will give the Leader in the private sector because that is of the Opposition a cassette. The com­ where the jobs will be in the future. mercial has some very sound pictures This is a firm policy and the document of Victoria as it can and will be. It sets it all out-it sets out the details or the blueprint for Victoria in the is interesting that several television and future. radio stations are playing the cassette in their community service time; in The document achieves everything other words, they regard it as stiitab.le that the motion seeks to advocate. It for that purpose. Thereby, it Will anticipates what might be said by way achieve a great deal more pUblicity. I of arguments supporting the motion am sorry that the Opposition does not and I go back to the beginning of the like it but it will in the future, and speech made by the Leader of the the G~vernment makes no apologies. If Opposition when he said that the new directions should work, and so they the Leader of the Opposition would like should. With the support of all Vic­ to consult the Premier of New South torians they will work because they Wales, he will find that the publicity 5552 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY

section there, and the publicity expen­ I come to several suggestions made diture, are many, many times that in by the Leader of the Opposition. Where Victoria. they are sensible, we are already doing it, and where they are not sensible The Government only goes in for this they would require an increase in the kind of publicity when it believes it bureaucracy. For instance, the first has a message that it wants the people suggestion related to a series of re­ of Victoria to hear. The Government gional planning authorities. The West­ has a message from time to time, but ern Port Regional Planning Authority this is an important message, and I is now costing around $750 000. It is hope the honourable member for ~ese.r­ believed that, by September of this year, voir will throw his support behmd It. it will have achieved its objective, Maybe he will. He should listen to his which was to prepare an over-all plan leader who says that the new directions for the Westernport region, and that should work. They will work, and they regional plan can be, and should be, will wor~ better if there is a concerted passed over to the local councils to effort on the part of the whol~ com­ administer. munity, and on the part of ~h.IS Par­ liament. If there is only back-bltmg and The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ denigration, they will work less well. man}-Order! I appeal to members of the Opposition, particularly the Deputy The Government is going ahead wi.th Leader of the Opposition, to hold their them and it believes the future of VIC­ peace. If the Deputy Leader of the Op­ toria'is greater than any ki~d. of minor position wishes to speak, I will gi~e sniping from the OPPOSItIon. The him the call in due course. He wIll Government will persist with these new have plenty of opportunity. directions whatever the Opposition may Mr HAMER-There is no description say. How~ver, I enjoin the Opposition, of what these regional planning author­ as I did in my letter to the Leader of ities might do, but obviously they will the Opposition, when I said, ".1 ';1rge require staff; in fact the Leader of the you to get behi~d it bec~use It IS a Opposition said they would have staff. State project. It IS somethmg that t~e They are to be some kind of additional State ought to be achieving, based on ItS bureaucracy, inter-leaved, as it were, undoubted potential." between local government and State Government, and exactly what they This is the position: As we enter the are going to achieve, I do not know. 1980s we have new directions based on ne'w situations. Without continually There are planning authorities in rethinking the situation by the Gov~rn­ Westernport and in the Dandenongs ment the community would fall mto and in both cases they have been es­ tablished to cater for a special need some kind of apathy. But that :is not the for consolidated planning in those position. We have new directions. w.e areas. have two new Ministries, one economIC development, the other employment and The second proposal is that the Gov­ training, and they represent on. the .one ernment investigates alternative sources side, growth, and the other SIde, Jobs of energy. The Government has a Solar which are inter-related, and as I have Energy Research Committee. That com­ explained to the House already, they mittee is not just concentrating on energy from the sun, but on the con­ will be adequately funded this year. I version of solar energy into other suggest to the Leader of the Opposition forms, such as biomass. Therefore, the that he may be jumping his fences be­ Government is already investigating al­ fore he gets to them. These two new ternative sources of energy. I agree with Ministries are being structured, and the Leader of the Opposition, and he they will be adequately funded, but agrees with me, that is a desirable overall, the Government is not out to thing to do. He talks about a compre­ achieve an increase in bureaucracy but hensive energy policy, which already a decrease. exists. I invite him to read it. It is only Mr Hamer 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5553 a year old, and it sets out what Vic­ Strategy for the Eighties is precisely toria's energy resources are and the what the State needs and what it will State's anticipated needs. It emerged achieve. first as a Green Paper, and then as a White Paper. Mr JOLLY (Dandenong)-It was clear from the Premier's speech tonight that The fourth proposal is to upgrade he lost his new directions at the after­ public transport, which is exactly what noon Liberal Party meeting. All we the Government is doing. The Govern­ heard was a presentation of cliche after ment's objective is to provide the best cliche-the main being new directions. possible form of public transport. It It is like the Work for Tomorrow Con­ involves using a tram, or some other ference-a conference was held and the conveyance. I am not going to debate new policy disappeared. the details of it. All I say is that the Government has exactly the same ob­ The Premier criticized the Leader of jective as set out by the Leader of the the Opposition for not referring to the Opposition. The Government wants to Liberal Party document entitled Vic­ upgrade public transport; it wants to toria's Strategy for the Eighties-Jobs provide the best possible service, but from Growth. I have had the oppor­ seeing that public transport is costing tunity of examining that document. It the Budget $228 million this year, the does not provide a detailed economic Government also has an obligation to evaluation for the State. It is full of see where it can provide public trans­ cliches. The Premier obviously did not port more cheaply and more efficiently. want to go into too much detail in It does not have to be cut out, but the examining this document. Time does Government has to provide an altern­ not permit me to deal with every point ative form, and I invite the Leader contained in the document but I will of the Opposition to see what is really select a few examples which highlight happening rather than engage in the deficiencies of this Government and rhetoric. the inability of the Government to man­ age the economy. One example is The fifth proposal that we made was paragraph 6.10, at page 21 of the docu­ to review Government structure. The ment, and I quote: Government has been doing that for at The private sector will be encouraged to least three years, and it is already ~ive adequate notice of future proposals so that operating under staff ceilings in all !nfr~structure can be planned more efficiently; departments, sometimes to their dis­ It wIll also ~e encouraged, where possible, to comfort, and a group in the Public fina,nce the mfrastructure requirements of its Service Board is reviewing the struc­ proJects. ture of each department, and arriving Let us look at the situation with res­ at the most efficient structure. pect to Alcoa. Is that happening in tha tcase? Let us examine the cost of Government structures are being re­ the transmission lines to Portland. I viewed so there is nothing new in do not wish to quote from propaganda what is proposed by the Leader of the material. Let us look at the submission Opposition. Anything constructive is presented to the Senate Inquiry by already being done and where it has Federal Treasury on the question of the not been adopted it will involve this transmission lines. I quote from that State in more bureaucracy and more document: expense. In the case of the planned Portland smelter, My answer to the Leader of the for example, under the Victorian State Elec­ Opposition is that he has not produced tricity Commission's standard policies for the anything new. He has produced a lot capital financing of supply-system extensions to connect new customers, the developer would of negative comment and we could do normally have been required to provide the with less negative and more construc­ finance for the transmission facilities involved tive comment. The Leader of the Op­ -partly on a refundable basis ($110-120 position will find that what is con­ million) with the remainder on a non-refund­ tained in this document Victoria's able basis ($80-90 million). (~l In fact. the 5554 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY refundable component of the contribution has press, and its comments about the Gov­ been waived, with the SECV instead receiving ernment's approach to economic man­ access to additional loan funds. agement in this State. Of course, the Later in that paragraph, the submission article is referring to another of the concludes: monuments of this Government. All The annual value to the developer of these this Government seems to be about arrangements could be of the order of $15·20 million in the early years of the project. is monuments. I quote: We are looking at the first seven years. But the important thing for this city and this State to acknowledge is that we need to Is the company providing the cost of do more than play about with cardboard models the infrastructure? Of course it is not. and PR handouts in pretty brochures. That broad statement highlights the deficiency of the State Government's The situation is that we have pretty policy. It says one thing and does brochures and public relations handouts another. but we have not substance. Honourable members should look at The only thing that gives me en­ another section of the policy document. couragement is that when one looks This again highlights the deficiency of at the industrial relations section and the management processes of this Gov­ one looks carefully at the words chosen ernment. It states:" in this section-again on page 27-we The Government will accelerate infrastructure are told there is going to be an entirely programmes with the most productive returns fresh approach in management-union to the community, whilst ensuring that infra­ or, more importantly, employer-em­ structure needs keep pace with developments. ployee relationships. If that is going to happen, there will need to be a complete change in direc­ The Opposition has for some time tion of Government policy. But there been advocating a fresh approach in is no indication that that will happen. this area and recognizes that industrial In fact, I was surprised to learn from relations are important. The Opposition the words of the Director of Finance in has also indicated that conciliation is this State that major projects that go better than arbitration. But this Govern­ to the Public Works Committee for in­ ment, more than any Government in quiry and investigation are not even Australia, always goes to arbitration commented on by Treasury. If the first rather than negotiate its way out recommendations of the Public Works of an industrial relations situation. Committee go to State Cabinet there is That is why the working days lost per no reason for State Treasury to evalu­ employee in this State are consistently ate the project. No cost benefit analysis higher than in any other State in Aus­ is made in this State. That highlights tralia. The pertinent facts rate no men­ a gross deficiency in the financial man­ tion in this document. agement of Victoria. When one looks at the major area of Until we reach the position where we dispute, it is not in the private sector have an appropriate structure of Gov­ but in the public sector. That shows ernment to adequately handle these how incompetent and rigid the Govern­ programmes we will not move ahead in ment is in its approach to industrial Victoria. This State does not lack re­ relations. sources but lack policies to maximize the benefit to Victoria "out of those I will now consider in some detail resources. There is nothing in the the problems we are experiencing in policy pronouncements of the Premier Victoria and why this Government is today or in the publication-in the blue totally ill equipped to handle the prob­ and white Liberal colours-that suggest lems of this State. For a long time the there will be any change. That is my Opposition has indicated that it is ex­ key point. tremely concerned about the relative I refer to an editorial which appeared decline of the Victorian economy. There in the Herald on 3 March 1981, and I are no signs that this decline is about again quote from the establishment to be reversed. Mr Jolly 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5555

I will summarize the situation. It is of the aggregate demand in the Vic­ important to recognize the problems torian and, of course, the Australian that we face because they are very economy. I point out that I do not serious. In the main, they relate to the make up the figures that I use, I rely financial management of this State and on the Australian Bureau of Statistics of the nation. We have a Liberal Gov­ to supply them, and the figures from ernment in Canberra and a Liberal Gov­ that source reveal that in the twelve ernment in Victoria. That is the major months to the September quarter 1980 reason we are in an economic mess. the retail sales-and retail sales are an In the early part of 1979 and in 1980 important sector of the Victorian econ­ this Government attempted to make a omy-in money value, not in real virtue out of ignorance. It did not terms, increased by 13·9 per cent. That know what was going on and criticized is a considerable improvement on the the Opposition for raising issues. But, previous couple of years but, if one of course, the business community has examines those figures in relation to been complaining about this Govern­ Australia as a whole, one finds that ment and it was not until the business across Australia retail sales increased community placed pressure on the by 15·1 per cent. In other words, there Government that any action was taken. is a 1·2 per cent differential between The response has been a publicity fac­ Australia and Victoria. That highlights ade. The emphasis is on publicity, not the consumer demand problems faced substantial issues. in this State, and that is reinforced We have heard that there is to be when one examines new motor vehicle a change in the structure of the Vic­ registrations. In the twelve months to torian economy. We accept that that is November 1980 there was a decline in true. One would think that in this great new motor vehicle registrations in Vic­ document that was released today there toria of 13·2 per cent, whereas in Aus­ would be some explanation of inter­ tralia as a whole the decline was 5·3 dependence between the minerals boom per cent. Again, Victoria is relatively and the manufacturer but all that is worse off. presen ted is a rosy picture, that it will The home building industry is a vit­ mean more jobs and will be beneficial ally important area of private invest­ to the manufacturing industry. ment but, once again, in this area the The fact is that as the minerals in­ Victorian economy is faring badly. dustry develops and reaches boom pro­ This is an important sector of the econ­ portions the balance of payments omy for job opportunities but, as the position will improve, Australia's honourable member for Essendon exchange rate will appreciate and pOinted out, it does not even rate a the import competing industries mention in the new direction policy in this State will face more compe­ document released today. Once again titive pressures from overseas. that highlights the deficiencies of the Government. If one transposes this That is a vitally important issue but lack of economic activity into the situa­ it receives no attention in the document tion of job opportunities, the position released today. It should be closely is even more serious and even more evaluated because we must know what stark. I shall illustrate that by referring the impact of the mineral boom will to job vacancies during the past three be on the competing export industries years. In November 1977 there were in this State. After all, Victoria is the 13 200 job vacancies in Victoria. By largest manufacturing State in Aus­ November 1980 that 13200 had dropped tralia. An evaluation of the situation to 8500. That is an indication of the should be included in the document but lack of job opportunities in this State the Government has not even faced up and it illustrates the reason why there to the problem. is a net interstate migration from I now turn to a summary of the Victoria of approximately 21 000 a year. economic stagnation of Victoria. Con­ It is yet another indication of why we sumer demand is the major component are facing these problems. 5556 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY

An examination of the growth in full­ that it has not put together any con­ time employment for males in Victoria crete policies to get Victoria back to in the past twelve months clearly work. That is simply not good enough. shows that Victoria is not sharing in I shall now consider the basic steps the recovery of the Australian economy needed for sound financial management as a whole. Although the recovery in of this State's economy. Firstly, what Australia is extremely slow, in Victoria is needed is a clear statement of ob­ the situation is even worse. I shall focus jectives. The Government's document on full-time employment for males be­ has a few pages of vague remarks cause the Government recognizes that, about objectives. It goes from vague in essence, the full-time male worker statements about the future to a vague is the breadwinner of the family. In concept of jobs from growth, with no the past twelve months the increase in recognition or discussion about the fact Victoria was 0'15 per cent, compared that maximizing economic growth may with an increase across Australia of not be consistent with maximizing job more than 2 per cent. It is obvious from opportunities. It is important to evalu­ the figures relating to employment ate whether there are trade-offs in prospects for Victorian breadwinners particular areas, but the Government that the State's economy is simply not has not considered that. performing. Given that, no one can deny the seriousness of Victoria's economic Parliament should be informed about problems and, in my view, no one can these sorts of issues, and on 7 October be satisfied with the efforts of the Vic­ last year an exclusive report was given torian Government to grapple with to the Herald by the Premier stating these extremely serious issues. that before Christmas 1980 there would be a Green Paper before Parliament on Before outlining the appropriate pol­ the economy. Where is that Green icies for a State Government to adopt Paper? It has disappeared. Instead, we in today's economic environment, I have this glossy brochure that was shall deal with the Government's re­ handed out to journalists but not dis­ sponse to the problems. As I have al­ tributed to Parliamentarians. ready indicated, the Government's ap­ proach has been dominated by public Honourable members interjecting. relations. There has been pUblicity stunt after pUblicity stunt. First of all, Mr JOLLY-Obviously, the journal­ we had the new Minister of Housing ists and members of the Liberal Party introducing the concept of portrait ad­ received their copies of the document. vertising for his personal assistants. Of I was first able to obtain the document course, he was hoping to top the news­ from a source outside the Government. paper photograph list. Then, we had I then asked the Premier, who made the new Minister for Economic Devel­ it available, but it seems to me that if opment also deciding to enter the photo Parliament is debating a matter as im­ stakes and there was the red tape tele­ portant as this Parliamentarians should thon, which received quite a deal of receive the document and it should be publicity. It is clear that there is com­ tabled in the House. The truth is that petition between the boys of the Min­ the Government really does not want istry who are trying to keep pace with to debate these issues, and that was the Minister for Youth, Sport and Re­ clearly indicated by the Premier's re­ creation. They have no hope! He tops marks. As usual, the Premier's publicity the photo list and the big difference stunts have left behind the policy de­ is that he does not have to use the velopment that should be taking place. taxpayer's money to get pUblicity. We do not know whether the State That is this Government's approach and is aiming at maximizing employment it typifies its new direction policy. The opportunities. I live in the hope that problem is that the Government has at some stage the Government will issue concentrated on publicity stunts and a detailed statement of objectives and the public relations exercises in the targets. This document contains a newspapers and on television indicate vague reference to a 4 per cent econ- Mr Jolly 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5557 omic growth throughout the decade of ible for those two important areas. It the 1980s, but it does not say that a again demonstrates that the Govern­ particular policy will be adopted. It ment is unbalanced. then makes reference to a 25 per cent The Government has created two growth in agricultural production in new Ministries out of virtually nothing the next decade, but that is less than and has given one Minister responsi­ 2'5 per cent a year. It seems that the bility for two huge departments. Government plans to under-utilize labour and to push up unemployment. It is no wonder that the conservative There should be a detailed examination Australian Financial Review of 4 Febru­ of the issue. The basic ingredient of ary leads with an article headed, "How sound financial management is a clear to plan an economic shambles, Vic­ statement of objectives. However, that torian-style". That heading summarizes is not forthcoming from the Govern­ Victoria's situation. The opening para­ ment. There should be a clearly defined graph of that article states: bureaucracy and a well thought out By any logical standards, Victoria should be far and away the richest State in Australia, structure. However, that is non-exist­ its citizens the most prosperous, its infra­ ent. I turn now to examine the new structure the most developed, its industry the developments in this area. most expansionist. The Premier, who has certain That is what Victoria should be. How­ powers, has created an administrative ever, the financial journalist had this nightmare by setting up two new Minis­ to say: tries. More than any other single The fact that while Mr Ian Smith is supposed factor, the new Ministerial structure to be in charge of Economic Development while his colleague, Mr Lieberman, is Minister for highlights the Government's inability Planning, Minerals and Energy is a clear indica­ to grapple with Victoria's economic tion that the importance of co-ordination in problems. planning has not yet penetrated the machinery of Government. Victoria now has the new Ministries That one Minister should even be expected for Economic Development and Em­ to be responsible for "planning" as well as ployment and Training. It is an exercise Minerals and Energy boggles the mind. in bureaucratic nonsense. There will Clearly it does but it does not seem to be competition between the Minister worry the Government. for Employment and Training and the Minister for Economic Development The Minister for Economic Develop­ over policies. ment appears to have a one track mind The Victorian Public Service has lim­ on red tape. Surely that would be a ited economic expertise. Instead of con­ responsibility of the Minister for Plan­ centrating those two new Ministries in ning? one particular area, responsibility will Surely it would be logical to have a be spread thinly over two new depart­ structure where the Minister for Plan­ ments. As yet, the Premier does not ning would be not only concerned with know what the budget for the two land use planning but also concerned new Ministries will be. It would have with facilitating planning processes so been far more effective to have one as to encourage economic development? new Ministry dealing with economic However, the Minister for Economic development and employment rather Development has spoken on planning than spreading the economic expertise matters but one has yet to hear him over two separate Ministries. make any comment about economic development. It is to be hoped that I turn now to the ultimate absurdity tonight the honourable gentleman will of the new directions policy. The same make some attempt to overcome this Minister is responsible for planning and problem. minerals and energy. That conjures up all sorts of strange operations when State Treasury is the economic nerve it comes to Government policy making. centre of Government, yet it was not However, it boggles the mind to think even mentioned in the document that this one Minister will be respons- Victoria's Strategy for the Eighties. 5558 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY

Treasury has insufficient manpower re­ The new directions policy is nothing sources to deal with the complex eco­ more than a new cliche to take over nomic problems that confront Victoria. from the Work For Tomorrow Con­ There is no uniform set of accounts ference and Victoria is still in a for the statutory authorities. Therefore, shambles. it is impossible for a third person, let alone the Treasurer, to evaluate the Mr ROSS~EDWARDS (Leader of the comparative performance of the statu­ National Party)-It is a difficult motion tory authorities. It means that, when to debate because there is criticism of one assesses the performance of the what the Government has and has not Government, it is impossible to make done. However, it behoves all honour­ a judgment because of the lack of able mem1)ers to be constructive on uniformity of accounting standards. what can be done to improve Victoria. I shall devote all of my time to Treasury cannot evaluate the pricing pointing out what is wrong and policies of statutory authorities. One what should be done to improve cannot determine whether the State the Government's performance. Electricity Commission is charging It is an important debate and I com­ Alcoa of Australia Ltd the correct pliment the Opposition for ensuring cost of electricity because Treasury that it occurred at the first opportunity does not undertake that sort of analy­ during the sessional period because the sis. If it does, that has never been Government has made certain decisions brought to the attention of the public. and it behoves both the Opposition and Indeed, when I asked the Premier the National Party to put forward their whether his economic section would views on whether the policies will be be permitted to undertake that sort successful. Many of the ideas and sug­ of analysis, he refused to allow his gestions put forward in the "Jobs from economists to undertake research into Growth" pamphlet are good. It is a this vital issue. That is somewhat question of whether or not the sugges­ amazing when one considers that the tions will be carried out and the degree Government has released a document to which they will be carried out. The proclaiming appropriate energy pricing advertising cam paign-and this dis­ policies. How can the Government tresses many of us-is really a mid­ work out what an appropriate energy term mini-election campaign paid for pricing policy is when the economists by the Victorian taxpayers. I suppose in the Department of the Premier are one could say it is good politics and is not allowed to do the work and Treas­ a method that has been adopted by ury is not doing the work? the Wran Government in New South Wales and others. Similar action has It is important to note that cost been taken by other political parties benefit studies are not undertaken to and I am critical of it. I was interested assess the major projects that are to hear, as pointed out by the Leader planned in Victoria. The Opposition has of the Opposition, that the Age, which highlighted that factor on numerous is not often critical of the Govern­ occasions and stated that the Budget ment, on this occasion has criticized process is completely inadequate. Vic­ the Government. That newspaper, on toria does not have a comprehensive this occasion, has summed up the information system. The Budget covers community view of the propaganda less than 50 per cent of the public campaign. sector's economic activities. The first criticism I have of the new Treasury should be constantly asses­ directions policy of the Government is sing legislation to ensure the elimina­ tha t only one change occurred in tion of archaic practices that are pre­ Cabinet. I am not alone in making that venting full use of the State's resources observation because it is a widely held to maximize employment. The Govern­ view on all sides. The "Jobs from ment has no intention of ensuring that Growth" publication put forward the Victoria moves in that direction. positive side and not what is actually Mr Jolly lO March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5559 happening. If we are to have a true not great enough for the business assessment of the state of the Gov­ leaders to remember them. I find it ernment in Victoria we have to look rather interesting to compare this situa­ at some of the problems. One of the tion with that which prevailed when unfortunate trends that has developed Askin was in power in New South in Victoria is that less and less of the Wales. decisions made by the Government Mr I. W. Smith-What about Queens­ are Cabinet decisions. Many are made land? by members of the back bench. I am Mr ROSS-EDWARDS-I go along talking mainly about the "Nervous with Queensland. Often one has one Nellies" of the back bench. powerful man. However, in the New Honourable members must face the South Wales case there was not only fact that it is not easy to govern. It one Cabinet Minister who knew the is easier to be in opposition or a mem­ State, but also nine or ten leading men ber of the third party. However, the in Cabinet. Under the Askin Govern­ Government has to make decisions. If ment if a businessman had a problem the Leader of the Opposition will listen, he did not have to ring a single tele­ I shall give him an important lesson phone number; there were nine or ten because one day he will need it. It other Ministers to whom he could go is the job of Cabinet to govern and for information. I refer to such men as it is the job of the members of the Sir Charles Cutler, Sir John Fuller, back bench to make some amendments David Hughes and Leon Punch. These and undertake a polishing-up function men were part of Sydney and Askin from time to time. If every time the was one of the greatest Premiers this Cabinet makes a major decision it has country has ever known. I do not want to throw that decision out because of to compare the present times with the back bench, the Premier and those of the BoIte era because that Cabinet are called "weak". It must be was another Government and another hard to take from time to time. The generation. back bench of the Government has a One of the great weaknesses of the lesson to learn because if some of the Government is that it needs to make statements made by the honourable firm decisions. Business people want member for Doncaster to the effect that decisions. It is better to have a straight the Government will be beaten are "No" than a "Maybe". "Maybes" cost allowed to continue, the Government money. An example would be the situa­ will be beaten. It is' self-destruction. If tion about the casino and whether it is the back bench is allowed to make such a good or bad decision. statements, it will perform a first-class task in putting the Government out Mr Wilkes-It is a "No" decision. of business. Mr ROSS-EDWARDS-It is a "No" One of the major criticisms of the decision now. This will cause' great Government is that the Cabinet Min­ bitterness amongst the business com­ isters are not known in the business munity because many businessmen have community. The Premier is well-known spent money preparing plans and speci­ and the Minister of Labour and In­ fications. dustry is fairly well-known because of The sad part is that Victoria is his involvement in the Victorian Em­ crying out for a convention centre. ployers Federation. However, when Victoria has the ideal geographic situa­ businessmen go through contenders in tion and few natural tourist attractions the Premiership stakes one by one and like New South Wales and Queensland. ask for my comments-which I am No man could have tried harder than loath to give-most of the Ministers the Premier to introduce a convention are unknown. The leaders of industry centre. However, Victoria does not look do not know the relevant Cabinet Min­ like getting one. The message has hit isters. If they have met them on some home to the Government, but it is a occasion it is obvious that the impres­ tragedy that Victoria is not to have sion the various Ministers made was a convention centre. 5560 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY

During this sessional period, honour­ portant role to play, and if he is to able members will spend the first three be a success-and it is essential for the weeks debating three issues. There are Government and Victoria that he is three matters that I will mention, all a success-he will have to change his of which are caused by bad Govern­ style, to put 'it mildly. The Government ment, and members of the Opposition had to put him somewhere, so he fin­ will have a field day. Firstly, I refer to ished up in I that portfolio, and I will the casino issue, which will receive say no more about it. The Minister attention in due course. Secondly, we has ability,: but he made enemies in have the situation with the Melbourne the primary industry field. If he be­ City Council. The Government has haves in tbe same way as Minister changed the boundaries and we have for Economic Development towards the not got around to the new number of businessmen of Melbourne, it will be councillors and, without reason and in­ disastrous for Melbourne. The Minister quiry, they will be sacked. Debate has to be able to get along with on that issue will take up at least a people, and judging by the way in week. Victoria will have no Lord Mayor which he has started, he is not doing and no Melbourne City Council. very well. I asked the Premier today Thirdly, I refer to the situation of the if the Government would make a gen­ secondary school principals. That situa­ eral statement on its decentralization tion has arisen because time and again policy, and the Premier graciously the Government has said that it will answered that question. However, the not elect a teacher representative. Once Minister for Economic Development too often, the Government did not went off on a wild tangent and called correct the situation and now it has me a bush Socialist, which is slightly a mess on its hands. For the first time inaccurate. in 35 years the Government is not pre­ It does not matter what he calls pared to obey the umpire's decision. me-that is beside the point-but if The Government has stated that one he carries on with that sort of behav­ must obey the umpire's decision, but iour amongst the business community in this case it has said that the um­ of Melbourne, it will be a disaster. pire's decision is bad and it shall take What I was trying to get from the it back. Minister, who has now walked into These are the three matters that will the Chamber, was a simple statement be debated in the next few weeks and such as that which the Premier had they should not have been allowed to graciously given, that there would be happen. However, the situation is of no changes in the ten-point plan and the Government's own choosing and that the representation in the country its actions will put it a long way back of the Department of State Develop­ in the political stakes. The Government ment, Decentralization and Tourism ;has had a ~hance to put its house in would remain unchanged. The Premier order and it has not done so. gave me those undertakings, but all I got from the Minister for Economic We have a new revamped Ministry for Development were insults. He will have Economic Development, and that has to change his ways. a vital role to play if we are going to get Victoria moving again. One of the Government's admirable The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ aims is to increase agricultural produc­ man)-Order! The time appointed by tion by 25 per cent. Naturally, we Sessional Orders for me to interrupt would all like to see this happen, but it will not happen automatically. There the business of the House has arrived. will have to be input by the Govern­ On the motion of Mr MACLELLAN ment, particularly in the irrigation (Minister of Transport), the sitting was areas, before this can happen. If there continued. is to be a dramatic increase in produc­ Mr ROSS-EDWARDS (Leader of the tion, the safest and most sensible place National Party)-The Minister for Eco­ for it to take place is in the irrigation nomic Development has a most im- areas of Victoria. 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5561

What the Government has done in brown coal, as well as the fine tech­ recent years is to reduce the allocation nical education system that exists in to the State Rivers and \Vater Supply Victoria. However, some drastic Commission, not only in real terms, changes must be made to the educa­ but also in money terms year after tion system to educate more people year. If there is to be an increase in for specific jobs. Some of the aca­ production and something is to be done demics will not agree with that propo­ about salinity and drainage, money sition, but a different emphasis has will have to be spent, because in­ to be put on education. Some jobs creased production cannot be obtained in Victoria are not being filled and without greater efficiency-that is the people must be trained for the jobs point I am making. The same thing that are vacant. will happen in the dry areas. If there Victoria has tremendous quantities is to be a 25 per cent production of brown coal, and another high pri­ increase, there must be an input. I do ority for the Government is to deter­ not think anybody could disagree with mine the arrangement it is going to that general statement. come to with private industry in Gipps­ There has been talk of introducing land. Private industry is interested in a four-year term of office for members backing the conversion of gas to oil, of Parliament. We all agree that a and arrangements on price and quan­ four-year term would be admirable for tities will have to be negotiated be­ members of this House, but there is no tween the Government and private way in which anybody could possibly enterprise. These are big decisions for agree to introducing an eight-year term the Government to make; they are for members in another place; we all fairly pressing and important decisions recognize that. It could not be made which are going to affect the State a four-year term with half the mem­ not only for the rest of this century bers going out every two years be­ but also well into the next century. cause we would finish up with more What is needed as much as anything elections than there are now, so one in Government today is greater loyalty can see that not much thought has to the Premier by his party. No Leader gone into that suggestion. can operate unless he has the loyalty Mr I. W. Smith-What is your solu­ of those who are working with him, tion? and that is true of every party, but when one is Premier or Prime Minister Mr ROSS-EDWARDS-The Minister it is even more important. One of for Economic Development has a big the things that has to be stopped is the task ahead of him, and I hope he fighting for the future Premiership. The will make a speech tonight, because if sooner that is put away and forgotten he is going to spend all night inter­ and Ministers settle down to carrying jecting, he will spoil my speech and out the duties of their portfolios, the we will have to put up with the rude­ better government we will have in this ness from him which the farmers have State. been putting up with for the past six Another problem in Victoria which years. is still extremely important is that of We talk about tax sharing, and the probate and gift duty. The Premier has Treasurer says that Victoria must get given an undertaking that these duties a better deal. I commend what he says, will disappear completely during the but it is easy to say that. However, life of this Parliament, and I have no with the influence that Queensland and doubt that that undertaking will be Western Australia are exercising on honoured. Recently I made a statement, the Federal Government today, it is which is well known to many honour­ going to be difficult to achieve a more able members, pointing out that real equitable share for Victoria. problems are occurring in this area. Victoria is lucky because it is basic­ For instance, if a Victorian changes ally a wealthy State. We tend to over­ d()micile and goes to Queensland-and look the importance of our oil, gas and "domicile" is sometimes very hard to 5562 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY

define-although no probate duty is State that e could do without com­ payable in Queensland and no probate pletely and I put this to the Premier duty is payable on property in Vic­ seriously. ections 'of various depart­ toria owned by Victorians, if the estate ments-I ill not name them now­ is administered in Queensland, people Victoria c uld well do without. It is can be caught and full probate duties not a case of cutting down on one or must be paid regardless of whether the two peopl·; whole sections could just estate is to go to children or grand­ disappear. I also make the point-the children of the testator. We want a Premier '11 agree-that functions have change iri that law; we want the Treas­ been dup cated between the State and urer to announce a date when the the Com onwealth. One can take edu­ present system will be abolished. cation 0 health as prime examples, People write to me and come up to together ith a multitude of others. I me in the street to ask when probate have ma e various objections as con­ duty will be abolished in Victoria. I structive as possible. There are fields say that it will be done during the life in which the Government should take of this Parliament, but I cannot give notice aqd act accordingly. them a date when this will happen to However, I make the point that if enable them to organize their affairs. the Government does not act on these If it is going to be done by a certain matters-I appeal to the front date, such as 1 January next year, the bench ~nd the back bench of Treasurer should fix that date now. the Government-there is a distinct The sad thing is that the Socialists in possibility that the Liberal Party will New South Wales, unlike their counter­ be changing sides in this House after parts in Victoria, have announced that the 1982 election. The Government probate will be abolished at the end of must get the State moving. Every the year. In summary, we will need a Government supporter has a respons­ combined effort by all members of the ibility to make an effort to improve Victorian Parliament because the State the Government's performance. If the faces a serious situation. Let us hope Government does not take the warning that the worst is behind us and that seriously, it will be completely out of there will be an improvement in the touch with the community. I shall pro­ future. Cabinet will have to make a pose an amendment to the motion decision and not let back-bench mem­ moved by the Leader of the Opposition. bers drag it down. There must be I move: greater Government leadership in industrial disputes. This could start by That all the words after "Jobs from Growth" be omitted with the view of inserting in pjace taking the Qantas dispute as an thereof the words "and, urges the Government example in which firm Government to give greater emphasis to the balanced leadership was demonstrated for a development of Victoria". change. The Government, appointed by the people of Australia, brought in the Mr SIMMONDS (Reservoir)-Hon­ Royal Australian Air Force with the ourable members have listened to the blessing of the unions and the people Premier giving a most puerile defence of this country generally. There was a of what has been described as new nervousness amongst them, but the initiatives and new directions for Vic­ action deserves full marks for the toria. In reading the list of five new Federal Government. It had the courage. directions, the Premier stopped after to do it and to bring in RAAF staff three directions. That is an indication labour and use the Air Force to main­ that the Government is running out of tain the good name of Australia around steam, not only in its capacity to the world. govern this State, but also in its The other matter is that Australia capacity to apply a solution to remedy has had a razor gang in Canberra; we a situation that can only be described need a razor gang in Victoria. There for the section of the community that are sections of the bureaucracy in this is unemployed asa disastrous position. Mr Ross-Edwards 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5563

The reality is that the people suffer­ It did not come about by this Gov· ing as a result of the mismanagement ernment's action. It is something it of the economy of this State have little inherited. In the inner metropolitan hope in the so·called new directions suburbs of Melbourne about 34 000 and, as is evident from the contribu­ jobs have gone in the past eight years. tion the Government has made tonight, In the northern suburbs of Melbourne, no hope for any change in the future. which I represent, there are about The remarks of the Leader of the 10000 fewer jobs than there were National Party seem to indicate eight years ago. that he is concerned to reserve his position in the power play that is Mr McCance--Can you back that up? taking place within the Government Mr SIMMONDS-It is based on a party in the hope that ultimately he survey by the Australian Bureau of may be called up to fill the role of Statistics. The problems in analysis and Treasurer in this State. I do not think predictions of manpower in this State that is likely and I am sure that I share are aggravated by under-staffing in that belief with many members of the the Commonwealth Employment Ser­ Liberal Party. However, I am sure the vice and disputes with the Federal Leader of the National Party nurtures Government. It is about five months that position as it seems to come since figures in respect of the Com­ through in most of the contributions monwealth Employment Service were he makes in this Chamber. When the made available in Victoria. What is the business of Government performance is Government's solution? It had this being discussed he is aware that he worked out at a "Work for Tomorrow cannot criticize the Government too Conference" and a great ballyhoo heavily because he may tip it out of arose prior to the last election jn office to a degree that will make it which the Government said it would difficult for him to have any input provide the solution that honourable to the future of this State. That is the members are talking about tonight. reality of the contribution made There has been no performance result­ tonight. ing from that-except, perhaps, some people having a gross luncheon and some The Premier spoke about a 25 per people having a satisfactory dinner at cent increase in agriculture in Victoria. the cultural centre. To the persons He talked about resources and energy, whose lot was supposed to be dealt Bass Strait oil, natural gas and brown with and improved, there has been coal. These are the natural resources little result. For every job vacancy in and weahh of the State that will pro­ Victoria tOday, there are 22 unemployed vide full employment for the people persons. In the northern suburbs, the who live within the State. It is a con­ area I represent, there are thousands of demnation of the Government that it unemployed persons. Of the 1300 un­ has those resources and has been un­ employed people in the Reservoir post­ able to provide that fundamental right code district, 60 per cent are people of the people of this State to ·expect under 25 years of age. I spent two any payment in commensurate proper days this week at a discussion on tech­ living standards for the unemployed. nological change and unemployment. The Premier talked about manufac­ That involved working with members turing and related the need for training of the work force and shop stewards, and additional skills to manufacturing. with unemployed youth, with people He is concerned in that area because working for the Preston Employment everybody associated with manufactur­ Action Group and people working in ing in Victoria recognizes that it is the the Community Youth Support Scheme, key and basis of any future employ­ in a two-day attempt to come to a con­ ment prospects in this State. It is the structive analysis of what the problem hard core of employment in Victoria and solutions may be. and has been for as long as Victoria Mr Dixon-Did the unemployment has been industrialized. committee turn up there? 5564 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY

Mr SIMMONDS-Yes, it did. Some­ a rational so ution to an industrial dis­ thing that this Government may think pute. Wher er there is a hard line about is that, if its Federal colleagues position to e taken, he is well to the cut the dole money in the way they fore. I a reinforced in that view are talking about, the unemployed will by the acti ns of the Deputy Premier be armed and will find their own solu­ when the emier has been out of the tions. Members of the Government may State and t e Deputy Premier has been laugh at that, but that position has in the posi ion of dealing with some of been put in discussion. I am not advo­ the issues hat have been the making of cating it; I am informing the House this Gove~nment. I doubt whether the of the way people are thinking. Unless Loy Yang dispute would have been the Government understands the way settled in· the terms in which it was young people are thinking, it may not settled if he had been the Premier find a satisfactory solution. and whether the 600 workers who were locked out for six months would have The Government may also ponder the been recompensed. They were recom­ fact that the Preston Employment pensed because of an error of policy Action Group, working with girls, is which came about under Government alarmed at the attitudes of young un­ administration. That was admitted and employed. I asked the question as to arrangements were made to recompense whom they blame and the initial the persons affected. That situation response was to blame the Fraser should never have arisen; a sound ad­ Government, but then they said that ministration would never have allowed they really blame themselves. Unem­ it to happen. ployed people feel deficient, that they are incapable of earning a living and Let me revert to the new directions unacceptable to society. However, a vaunted by the Government. There are change comes over those people who deficiencies in trade training in this find employment because the same per­ State because of a shortage of trade son who has been in this position for instructors. There are approximately two years can come back two weeks 1550 apprentices in training who are after finding employment, point to his without access to training facilities and colleagues of the future and say, "You the education system either because of are dole bludgers". People are being a shortage of teachers or because of conditioned to blame the victims of the a shortage of class-room facilities. situation and they will react In that situation, the Government unpredictably. appointed an additional Minister for Employment and Training. In the past week there have been demonstra tions against strikes by per­ By section 6 of its Act, the Indus­ sons who say that the community trial Training Commission is responsible should take some action against the directly to the Minister of Labour and trade union movement which is caught Industry. The Government was able to up in industrial disputation. People advertise, at a salary of $50000, for a have a right to demonstrate, but I ques­ Director of Industrial Training. If Par­ tion whether they have a right to select liament means anything, I should have a section of SOciety and blame that thought it was the place where this section, as is being done, by people initiative should be discussed and where who are being manipulated. I am sure the legislation should have been the Murdoch media have a vested in­ amended, and perhaps we can find terest in that proposition, and the enabling legislation. I am sure I speak Deputy Premier is as guilty as anybody for many people associated with trade else. I have never heard him in this training when I say that they are con­ Chamber admit that there was a legiti­ cerned about the capacity of the new mate industrial dispute or acknowledge Minister to appreciate and understand that a living trade unionist was a the intricacies of trade training and responsible person, and I have never apprenticeship in this State and they heard him take a position of finding are deeply concerned as to whether 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5565 we will see the necessary upgrading ernment say, "We need so many fitters of class-room facilities to provide train­ and turners, boilermakers and so forth ing places for the 1550 apprentices in for this particular project and we wish training or the appointment of the 350 to train them in a certain manner and necessary instructors. have them available at a certain time"? It is not a situation where the Min­ I should like the Minister to give me ister of Education says that there are specific instances of projects in this almost two teachers for every student State which require specific trades and in the education system. The situation the time-table for which they will be is as I have described and it is well needed, because I can tell him that known at the Trades Hall, and it is well there are people unemployed in those known that the new Minister has had trades. a lot of trouble getting over the top of I can also tell the Minister that VicRail his colleague, the Minister of Labour has cut its intake of apprentices by more and Industry. In fact, the people asso­ than 50 per cent in some trades this ciated with technical and further edu­ year. The MTIA talks about a shortage cation training in this State have taken of 300 skilled metalworkers, yet Vic­ a position of saying that they are Rail has cut its intake of apprentice responsible to the Minister of Educa­ fitters and turners. With all the training tion, yet the Minister for Employment facilities and resources, and producing and Training is determined to adopt the best trained apprentices in the the stance of saying-I do not wish State, we have a Government which is to quote him incorrectly so he ca.n cutting its intake by more than 50 per correct me if I am wrong-that he IS cent. If that is the way the Government doing this by Cabinet decree. I do not acts, there will be no real change. The know whether Cabinet decree enables public can expect a continuation of the Government to act outside the rules the status quo. which govern this place. In a press release, the Minister re­ It has been said to me, and I have ferred to the new Apprenticeship Hot­ no reason to contradict it, that the line. I would be interested to hear T AFE board has been informed that from him how much more success­ this is the modus operandi of the new ful was his new Apprenticeship Hotline directives in respect of trade training than his previous Job Hotline. In his and the responsibility of the TAFE press statement he correctly summed board in respect of the administration up the situation, saying that there were of trade training in Victoria. 4500 young people who commenced Mr Dixon-As announced by the Min­ apprenticeship training this financial ister of Education! years and he said that that compared Mr SIMMONDS-The Minister's in­ favourably with previous years. I sup­ terjection indicates to me that he has pose one could say tha t tha t now been able to have his way with is a desirable state of affairs. the Minister of Education. That does The Minister stated that 5500 more not change what the Act says or what young people have been approved by Parliament ought to be doing about it. the Industrial Training Commission to I come back to the question of the enter apprenticeships but have not been role of the Industrial Training Com­ able to gain employment to date. He mission and whether it will continue to claimed he would i'mmediately examine be the authority responsible for appren­ alternative and innovative programmes ticeship training in this State and for industrial training. This 'is the new whether there is a deficiency in respect Minister who has become an expert in of the trades as to which one con­ the area and who has to provide the stantly hears predictions of a boom in resources which so far have not been Victoria. I ask in what and where? available from either the Education or Are there any predictions of manpower Labour and Industry departments. I requirements in respect of skilled want to know what resources this :Min­ trades? Can any Minister of the Gov- ister has additional to the extensive 5566 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY advertising funds 'made available for the Making job creation a priority is no less promotion of the project. There is a complicated and difficult than the present government's strategy. An important part of a great deal of noise and very little per­ full-employment strategy would be a conscious form'ance in the Government's approach decision in favour of labour intensive rather to the question. than capital intensive projects. Mr Dixon-One press release-that Not only the young staff suffer as a re­ was the cost. sult of mismanagement of the Govern­ ment and its failure to deal with the Mr SIMMONDS-If the Minister can decline 'of employment opportunities in say that the cost of the promotion of Victoria. In January 1981 ,the number the new directions is one press release of people unemployed and looking for when the Age says $170 000 was spent, work rose by 2·3 per cent for Victoria I wonder why he did not get his fair but fell by 3·1 per cent for New South share and what he will do about it. Wales and by 2·3 per ·cent for Australia In developing a policy on youth un­ compared with January 1980. The un­ employment, I draw the attention of the derstatement by the Australian Bureau Mlin-ister to a 'publication, Local Youth of Statistics is well known. Its latest Policy Development, issued by the survey of persons not in the labour Youth Affairs Council of Victoria. I do force shows that every person repre­ not suppose the Min~ster will des·cribe sented in the monthly unemployment that council asa radical organization. figures is 'matched by another unem­ It correctly ,puts its finger on the funda­ ployed person not conforming to its mental problem: Unless there is a job strict definition. development programme there is little For instance, discouraged job seekers purpose in expanding training without who have not actively looked for work the prospect of employment at the end during the survey month are simply not of the training. Any training programme counted. This means that the true will not in litself make a contribution number of unem·ployed Victorians in towards 'alleviation of unemployment January 1981 was 216000 and not unless there is a programme which pro­ 108000 as reported. About 87 per cent vides work as a prerequisite to that or 187900 people wanted full-time work training programme. Page 51 of the re­ and of these, 38 percent 'Or 71 400 per­ port states: sons were aged fifteen to nineteen The present Federal Government has not been years. pursuing a full-employment policy. Instead the strategy has been to restore the health of the The number of unemployed Victorians economy by 'fighting inflation first', and by would have been far higher except that concentrating on primary resources (minerals 21 000 more people left this State than and energy). arrived last year. This is the equivalent The value of this strategy has not yet been of losing a dty the size of Warrnam­ demonstrated. The attack on inflation has bool or Shepparton annually. Over two­ become an end in itself rather than showing thirds-14 500-were of workforce age, any immediately obvious results such as a fifteen years or m'ore and over two­ return of confidence by the business community. thirds of these-l0 lOO-were aged The article states further: from 20 to 44 years. In November 1980 The tragedy of youth unemployment is that the true numbers of unemployed people a society is allowing the cost of the failure of its economic system to be borne by sections 'competing for job vacancies were: of the community least able to bear it. Young Twenty-two for Victoria, but only people form one such group. For the last ten fifteen for New South Wales and years they have borne a disproportionate burden twenty-one for Australia. of unemployment rates. In August 1969 15-24 year olds already comprised 44% of the total On the construction industry, in unemployed; in August 1979 this had risen December 1980 the Federal Minister for to 56%. Industry and Commerce, Sir Philip Therefore when unemployment rates of 6.2% Lynch, released a 133 page list of major are announced in the press, it should be remem­ bered that more than half of these people are construction projects committed and 15-24 year olds. planned for Australia. In January 1981, the New South Wales Minister for In- 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5567 dustrial Development ·and Minister for lopment of an effective policy for pro­ Decentralization, Mr Don Day, released viding full employment in Victoria will a 38 page list of major construction be built. projects committed and planned for The problem is that the Government New South Wales. has ,misused and proposes to misuse In November 1980, the then Victorian those resources in the same manner Minister of Public Works, Mr Tom it supported the aluminium industry and Austin-now demoted-released his its agreement with Alcoa of Australia own pathetically short three page list Ltd. I comment on the annual report of major and minor construction pro­ of the Aluminium Company of America jects committed and planned for Vic­ and its Australian company in which toria. The story told by these three the A'luminium Company of America is lists is revealing. Of major mining and a 51 per cent shareholder with the other manufacturing developments valued at major shareholder, Western Mining Cor­ $5 million 'Or more, 306 projects were poration Holdings Ltd, which constitutes worth $33·4 billion for Australia, 88 more than 70 per cent of the total projects worth $6·5 billion for New investment of Alcoa of Australia Ltd. South Wales, but only nineteen projects That company over a period of over ten worth $4·3 billion for Victoria. It ap­ years has shown an increase in dividends pears that Victoria will not even be the from $4 million to $40 million-a 1000 junior partner 'in Australia'S coming re­ per cent increase. The company achiev­ sources boom. Under the Hamer Gov­ ed that increase with an increase of ap­ ernment, Victoria is to be the office boy. proximately 65 per cent in its work­ Analysis of the Federal Government force at the same time as its revenue list shows that Victoria will host only earning increased by 700 per cent. 6·6 per cent of the mining investment In looking at the operations of compared with 10·1 per cent for South mineral developments in the State as 'a Australia, 16·9 per cent for New South solution to the job problems of the Wales, 26 per cent for Queensland and young and old unemployed or the un­ 36·7 per cent for Western Australia. employed who have simply given up Victoria, which could be Australia's any hope of finding employment-and premier industrial State has attracted this often happens to those in the only 12 per cent of the manufacturing 40 to 50 age group--that section of investment compared with 19·8 per cent the community -is hit hard by a for Western Australia, 27·1 per cent for policy of the Government and 'One Queensland and 32·3 per cent for New can hardly turn to the Aluminium South Wales. Company of America to provide Clearly, these States are tooling those resources for Victoria. up to service their own minerals and Honourable members have a respon­ energy projects with locally manufac­ sibility to talk about a new direction tured materials. The economic linkages and about new directives, but they through which Victoria had been hop­ should not be the directives that have ing to share in the resources boom are been mentioned so far. They should be being attacked with bolt cutters. In directives that give the Victorian com­ confirmation of this, the Australian munity an equity in its resources. Hon­ Federation of Construction Contractors ourable members should be talking has recently forecast that engineering about obtaining revenue from Victoria's construction will rise by 7 per cent a projects but not about handing over year for Australia, by 2 per cent a year Victoria's brown coal to private enter­ in New South Wales and will fall by prise or about handing over the re­ 14 per cent a year in Victoria over the sources of this State to persons who 1981 to 1985 period. will make decisions along the lines that The Premier has talked of the energy General Motors-Holden's Ltd. and the resources in Victoria, including brown Ford Motor Co. have made in the car coal and one must say that these are industry. It is certain that if the con­ the resources around which the deve- centration of power in Victoria's energy 5568 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY resources is sold out to the multi­ have prevented that discussion from nationals, as has occurred in the car taking place. The approach of the Gov­ industry, the decisions will not be made ernment to the Parliament is contain­ in the interests of the people who work ment of the Opposition and of the de­ and live in Victoria but in the inter­ bate rather than a sound constructive ests of those who wish to make the approach to the problems facing our greatest return regardless of the com­ society. There is a need for new direc­ munity they serve. tion. The amendment by the National I have spoken to stewards from the Party stands condemned because of its metal and motor industries in Victoria words. It provides nothing but simply who recently attended an international seeks to preserve the present position, metal workers' conference in Spain. to maintain a balance of power position They reported on the activities of the when this Government falls. It will not Ford Motor Co. and General Motors happen that way. The people of Vic­ in the countries in which they operate. toria will not allow it. It is true that they operate in the Mr THOMPSON (Treasurer)-Despite climate that exists in the country which the traditional Marxian predictions of is their host; they conform with the a revolution for Australia in the future laws of that country. In Australia, and -I have never heard such rubbish­ in Victoria particularly, the Government on two aspects I congratulate members is acquiescent and provides no support of the Opposition. Firstly, they were to the people to maximize their oppor­ wise in debating this subject rather tunities. than the tri via with which they usually Mr Jasper-Tell us what you would waste the time of the House. This is a do. matter of importance to guide Victoria Mr SIMMONDS-There is one thing successfully through the 1980s. that I would not do. I would not have The Leader of the Opposition said he what the Ford Motor Co. has in Chile, agreed with the new jobs through namely, an armed guard on top of the growth approach and I congratulate work place to ensure that peace is maintained. That stage has not been him on that enlightened view. He is reached in Australia, but if the practice joined by numerous radio and television continues of divorcing and isolating a stations in supporting this theme. Re­ major section of the community from cently I wrote to them asking them to the right to work, somebody outside run advertisements promoting the this place will make decisions in the growth of Victoria on a non-partisan, way that Hitler and Mussolini made non-political basis. A welcome response decisions in their day. They provided was received. Television stations Chan­ decisions for people who found them­ nel 7 and Channel 9, and radio stations selves in difficulties. In this country 3AW, 3KZ,3UZ, Fox FM, STV8, BCV6, with the influence of the right and of and 3XY have all agreed to run these this Government in office, there is a advertisements free of charge in the danger that that sort of situation could interests of developing this State. develop. There is much to fear from the lack of a democratically elected Par­ This document presents a clear, con­ liament and the lack of provision in cise plan for the development of Vic­ the community for the one vote one toria through the 1980s, and three value to elect Parliaments that support vigorous enterprising Ministers have that proposition. Australia lacks the been appointed to key portfolios in the democratic processes which will take growth area. I refer to my colleagues place if an informed society discusses Messrs Smith, Dixon and Lieberman the issues. In this Parliament there is who have proved themselves to be suppression of that discussion. Ministers of competence. They are far·· Tonight a discussion is taking place sighted, forward looking Ministers who in accordance with the Standing Orders will do justice to these important which, if effected two days ago, would assignments. 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5569

Despite the fact that the honourable That is inaccurate. The Government is member for Dandenong is wearing his not fully satisfied with all the avenues new, handsome prosperity suit which indicated to date but there are signs of reflects the prosperity of Victoria, he improvement. For example, in the past took a somewhat dimmer view of these two quarters the consumer price index plans and developments than his leader. has increased by 1'9 per cent and One extraordinary aspect was the way 2'1 per cent, giving an average inflation in which he brushed aside the impact rate of 9 per cent per annum. With of strikes on the industrial activity and single figure inflation once again, future of Victoria. Australia is in a favourable posi­ Mr Jolly-This State has the worst tion relative to the United Kingdom record. and the United States of America. Mr THOMPSON-It has that record There was a 32 per cent increase in because the left wing is more highly c.ar sales in Victoria during the final developed in Victoria. However, the six months of last year compared with Labor Party will never criticize the left the first six months. That 32 per cent wing despite the diabolical, irrespon­ improvement in Victoria compared with sible and ridiculous nature of various an 8 per cent improvement for the rest strikes. Never have I heard a member of Australia. They are striking figures of the Opposition in this House or the and the Government would like to see other House criticize that type of the figures maintained for a longer action. It might be done outside the period and it believes it will. House but not in it. In the building industry there has Recently wherever I went overseas been a marked improvement in the I heard remarks about Australia, that private sector with an 18 per cent in­ it is a great country with immense crease in approvals over the previous natural resources, amazingly large open quarter in the non-dwelling private spaces, stable Government and so forth, building sector. Compared with the but that it is throwing away its de­ previous year, the figure represents a velopment opportunities by allowing 15 per cent increase. There was a 20 one strike after another. I quote the per cent increase in approvals for new example of Qantas Airways. Nineteen shops and a 75 per cent increase in different strikes have occurred in that approvals for other business premises. company in two years. Is that in the They are striking figures. interests of promoting tourism to Vic­ In household income, Victoria still re­ toria and Australia? Obviously it is not. mains at the top of the table with an This was repeated to me time and again income of $6203 per head of popula­ in Japan and in dong Kong. I believe tion as against an Australian average in the right to strike in extreme cir­ of $6070. cumstances, but there is no question Rural industries have experienced a that over the past decade the right to good season due to improved efficiency, strike has been consistently abused by better techniques and sound planning. the union movement and has now This year the grain harvest was a little reached such a stage that it is threat­ short of the 4 million tonne mark ening not only the future of this State, reached in the previous year, but if but also of this country. I say those honourable members look at the past words advisedly, after having talked three years compared with the previous about the future of this country with three years they will find that there has people who have the interests of Aus­ been a 40 per cent increase in produc­ tralia at heart, who have money to tion. This augurs well for the Premier's bring here and who would come here expressed hope of a 25 per cent in­ as tourists if they could be sure they crease in agricultural production in the could get here and back again. years that lie ahead. The other point made by the honour­ It must be remembered that 60 per able member for Dandenong was that cent of this State's export income there was no sign of any improvement. comes from its rural products. There 5570 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY is a far better opportunity to expand The approach adopted. by members our primary export markets in coun­ of the Opposition is a negative one, tries such as those situated in Asia, especially when it comes to the crunch than there is in the secondary area and the Government introduces a big where Victoria would have to compete project and looks for support from the with the heavily mechanized industries Opposition. of Japan. There is an opportunity not Honourable members find that here only to increase production but also we have guidelines for Victoria in the to sell that increased production. 1980s. We have enthusiastic Ministers Generally speaking, mention has been in charge of these developmental port­ made of the many new production folios and members of the Government plants already built or under construc­ look forward with optimism to the tion. I shall repeat only a couple of further development of Victoria in the projects that affect the motor car in­ 1980s. dustry. I refer to the Nissan Motor Mr GINIFER (Keilor)-The Deputy Manufacturing Co. (Australia) Ltd Premier stated during his speech that plant at Clayton which cost $160 he did not want to continue with a million. Then there was the Toyota long diatribe, but I suggest that in fact Manufacturing Australia Ltd develop­ what the honourable gentleman was en­ ment at Port Melbourne which cost gaging in was a dose of union bashing $140 million. Next there are three because the honourable gentleman at­ developments in Geelong which to­ tempted to lay the blame for the mis­ gether total $220 million, and I refer management that has taken place dur­ to the developments by Shell Co. of ing the past ten years of the Hamer Australia Ltd, Broken Hill Proprietary Government's administration at the feet Co. Ltd and Alcoa of Australia Ltd. of everyone else other than the Govern­ Altogether the developments being un­ ment. In order to bring the debate back dertaken by private industry represent to where it belongs, I remind honour­ an investment of $8000 million. In able members that the motion moved addition there are developments within by the Leader of the Opposition states: the Government sector and additional That this House notes the document issued developments which have not yet been by the Premier on 11 December entitled "Jobs costed and these would further increase from Growth" and deplores the attempt by the the total investment in Victoria. Government to deceive the people of Victoria by producing a document based on shallow I do not want to delay the House and meaningless rhetoric and expresses its concern at the continuing failure of the Govern­ with a long diatribe at this hour of ment to develop a detailed economic and social the night, but I have endeavoured to strategy to maximize employment opportunities point out that the Government believes in this State. it should have received a greater meas­ What honourable members should ad­ ure of support from the Leader of the dress themselves to is the fact that Opposition and the Opposition for its there is a lack of confidence in the new growth policy. Government, its ability to legislate and Generally speaking the approach administer that legislation for the well­ adopted by the Opposition is a nega­ being and benefit of the people of Vic­ tive one. Its members have spoken toria. about increasing the number of jobs One has only to look at the tenor available and this was adverted to by of the debate that has proceeded this the honourable member for Reservoir, evening to ascertain the true position. but when the Government introduces The case put forward by the Premier a particular project such as the Alcoa was based on a public relations exer­ project or the World Trade Centre de­ cise initiated by the Victorian Liberal velopment, members of the Opposition Party which today, at a press confer­ knock them and instead wish to con­ ence, issued a document setting forth centrate on the future of Bourke's bank­ its views. However, honourable mem­ rupt shop in Bourke Street or wherever bers should remember that that docu­ it is. ment has no standing as a Parliamen- Mr Thompson 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5571 tary paper, a Ministerial statement or ment or of the Victorian Railways, the any other standing as a paper which potential for training skilled workers would be available in the Papers Room, is being lost. which is really what Parliamentary democracy is all about. I refer in particular to the technical facilities which are available and the That document was the basis of the scholastic facilities which are under­ proposition which the Premier has sub­ utilized in Victoria. I shall concentrate mitted today, supported by his Minis­ on this particular facet of Government ters. It is a public relations document administration, together with the fact issued in the name of the Victorian that many persons who have been in­ Liberal Party and I suggest that that dentured or could be indentured to document does nothing to generate con­ undertake apprenticeship in this State fidence in the business community in but because of a lack of educational this State. Nor does it generate confid­ facilities in our technical schools, they ence in Victorian citizens. are not being given the opportunity to fulfil their aspirations and therefore In outlining his case, the Leader of cannot be expected to carry out the the Opposition alluded to the fact that theoretical and practical aspects of their this evening honourable members had apprenticeship training. the opportunity to discuss a whole range of Government legislation, Gov­ The Victorian community is losing con ernment policies and Government ad­ fidence in the educational facilities pro­ ministration but the Government had vided by the Education Department, decided to run away from a motion of particularly in apprenticeship training. no confidence and instead the House is debating what is in effect the new One could also look to the position directions which have been proposed in of housing, the Housing Commission a public relations document. and the administration of housing by the new Minister of Housing. In an area The honourable member for Dande­ where there is a need for additional nong submitted a well researched case welfare housing, where the State could on the economic policies of this State. take initiatives and help to boost The honourable member examined the housing and building industry, many aspects relating to the new pub­ where there is a backlog of work! in lic relations brochure, and was able to the maintenance and upkeep of Hous­ point out many of the old cliches and ing Commission accommodation, the then to indicate that in fact they did Minister sent out a directive in his first not stand up when one examines the week in his new Ministry talking about policies of the Government. a 10 per cent cutback in the staff of The honourable member for Reser­ the Housing Commission. That meant voir brought apprenticeship training be­ 10 per cent across the board, without fore the House, together with the plan­ undertak!ing a cost be'nefit analysis of ning of skill training for particular what this would mean to housing and trades. In effect, insufficient planning welfare housing in this State. has been carried out by the Govern­ This is another instance of lack of ment into the training of apprentices. confidence in the Government by people Honourable ,members were given the who require welfare housing because example of the position as it related they cannot purchase their own homes, to Victorian Railways. That organiza­ including deserted wives and people tion possesses one of the best appren­ who, because of circumstances beyond ticeship schools in the nation as it has their control, need emergency accom­ one of the most up-to-date and modern modation. The Government wishes to apprenticeship schools for theoretical cut back on the services and facilities work. I refer to the Victorian Railways that might be made available to them. Technical College, but it appears, be­ This also flows over into the private cause of the policies of the Govern- sector to contractors and people who 5572 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY wish to be involved in that housing Another interesting situation occurred industry and who may be able to avail at question time today when the Pre· themselves of contracts and additional mier indicated that Victoria was in work on construction and thus provide need of a convention centre, which he more employment. had espoused on a number of occasions. It seems also that people in One must also look at the track free enterprise and business are sold record of the previous Minister of Hous­ on the idea that the centre cannot be ing, for example, in the development of self-sufficient and self-funding unless it housing estates in Broadmeadows. No goes in tandem with a casino. How do clear or concise undertak,ing has been people in the business world regard the given and nothing constructive has been Victorian Government today? They see put forward about what is to happen a lack of confidence, lack! of direction to housing land in Broadmeadows. and lack of understanding. Subdivisions are being built, road and street construction are taking place, The new Minister for Economic De­ but no indication has been given of velopment, when he was Minister of how they are to be utilized. This lack Agriculture, foreshadowed that there of decisIon and policy brings further would be an increase in agricultural into doubt the confidence that the Vic­ productivity in Victoria of some 25 torial community has in the Govern­ per cent over the next decade. It was ment. also interesting to note that at a press conference the new Minister of Agri­ One must also look at local govern­ culture, Mr Austin, was reported in the ment. If ever there was a time of soul­ agricultural journals as having said that searching, criticism and lack of confi­ he had grave doubts about that pre­ dence in local government in Victoria, diction: he said that perhaps a 10 per this is the time. The third tier of gov­ cent increase could be achieved, but not ernment in this State is confused and 25 per cent. When two Ministers in does not know what its future is to be. succession have diverse view points Many people have noted the example and expectations of what the future of what has been foreshadowed for the holds for Victoria, how can we expect Melbourne City Council, irrespective of the Victorian community or investors the rights or wrongs of that municipal­ to have confidence in the State? The ity or the issues involved. The local ratepayers and residents were not real problem with which we are con­ consulted and asked wha t their fronted is the lack of a cohesive pro­ gramme which has been well researched thoughts might be~ so that is a further example of disinterest by and lack of and understood by the people whom the confidence in the government and its Government is trying to attract. administration. If one looks at public transport and Today a classical example occurred the way which it has been handled in where the Premier had floated his pro­ the past few months, one sees that posal for a casino in Melbourne and utter confusion has been caused, direct­ used the media as a means of getting ly or deliberately, by the Minister of his project off the ground, but when Transport in making available the Lonie he met his masters in the party room report but not giving any indication he was rejected. How can people have to the community at large of where the confidence in such a Government and Government stood on these questions. the Premier when the Premier is not The Minister of Transport may be quite able to fulfil the policies, aspirations good as an administrator, but as a and needs of his own political party? politician he should be attracting people No wonder there is a lack of confidence and business to this State. He has by entrepreneurs and those whom they allowed the whole issue of public trans­ are attempting to attract to Victoria port to become completely confused so through free enterprise to stimulate the that even today we do not know when Victorian economy. we can depend on rail transport being Mr Ginifer 10 March 1981] Government Economic and Social Strategy 5573

available to take commuters to wor~. I shall finish on this note: No re­ Confusion exists about the Upfield line, ference was made by Government mem­ even with the Minister's Federal bers in their contribut'ions to the debate counterparts, who helieve that the Up­ to some of the basic problems in this field line must be maintained for de­ State. Many such problems concern fence purposes. It would appear that structural change. History is passing when decision were taken on the Up­ this State by because of structural field line no consultation was held with the Minister's Commonwealth colleague. change in the motor industry, the textile industry, or in tariff policies, but nobody This brings us back to the con­ said how this was brought about and fusion that occurred when the Minister what could be done by the national for Youth, Sport and Recreation went Government to assist in this a'rea. The to Canberra with figures to try to sell . basic problem is that this Government the case for holding the Olympic Games has not been able to come to terms with in Melbourne in 1988. His projections the Victorian community and the Aus­ were thrown to one side out of hand tralian nation. It lacks the confidence because they were far away from the of the people it wishes to attract in the projections of the Federal Treasurer. whole field of development, whether it The stage has been reached now that be in apprentkeships or education, the Government is loo~ing for a scape­ goat for its own shortcomings. One through local government, housing, should look at the emotional attitude public transport, and even agriculture. taken by the Deputy Premier at ques­ I urge the House to support the tion time today when he all but con­ motion so ably moved by the Leader of demned his colleagues of the Liberal the Opposition. Party who form the national Govern­ ment and suggested that they were The House divided on the question completely out of step with the needs that the words proposed by Mr Ross­ of the Victorian community. If they are Edwards to be omitted stand part of the out of step, and there is a divergence motion (Mr A. T. Evans in the chair). between the Victorian Liberal Govern­ ment and the national Liberal Govern­ Ayes 32 ment, it can only be because of actions which have been taken by Ministers of Noes 46 the Victorian Government. For example, on many occasions the Majority for the omission Liberal Party puts the Minister for Youth, Sport and Recreation before us of the words 14 as an economist-a person full of the rhetoric of the commerce school of the University of Melbourne-but when it AYES comes to the hard facts and to putting Mr Amos Mr Remington up a watertight case in financial terms, Mr Cain Mr Roper the Minister was shown to be far short Mr Cathie Mr Sidiropoulos of the requirements. On that basis many Dr Coghill Mr Simmonds people in Victoria were greatly dis­ Mr Crabb Mr Simpson Mr Culpin Mr Spyker appointed. Mr Edmunds Mr Stirling The problems which confront Vic­ Mr Ernst Mrs Toner Mr Fogarty Mr Trezise toria are not to be found with the union Mr Fordham Or Vaughan movement with investors or with the Mr Ginifer Mr Walsh community. The real problem lies with Mr Hockley Mr Wilkes the Government, because the com- Mr Jolly Mr Wilton Mr King munity and people who would Mr Kirkwood Tellers: be interested in investing here Mr Mathews Mr Gavin have no confidence in Victoria. Mr Miller Mr Rowe 5574 Government Economic and Social Strategy [ASSEMBLY

NOES NOES Mr Austin Mr McInnes Mr Amos Mr Remington Mr Balfour Mr McKellar Mr Cain Mr Roper Mr Birrell Mr Mackinnon Mr Cathie Mr Sidiropoulos Mr Burgin Mr Maclellan Or Coghill Mr Simmonds Mrs Chambers Mrs Patrick Mr Crabb Mr Simpson Mr Coleman Mr Ramsay Mr Culpin Mr Spyker Mr Collins Mr Reynolds Mr Edmunds Mr Stirling Mr Crellin Mr Richardson Mr Emst Mrs Toner Mr Oixon Mr Ross-Edwards Mr Fogarty Mr Trezise Mr Ounstan Mr Skeggs Mr Fordham Or Vaughan Mr Ebery Mr Smith Mr Ginifer Mr Walsh Mr Evans (South Barwon) Mr Hockley Mr Wilkes (Gippsland East) Mr Smith Mr Jolly Mr Wilton Mr Hamer (Warrnambool) Mr King Mr Hann Mr Tanner Mr Kirkwood Tellers: Mr Hayes Mr Templeton Mr Mathews Mr Gavin Mr Jasper Mr Thompson Mr Miller Mr Rowe Mr Jona Mr Trewin The motion, as amended, was agreed Mr Kennett Mr Weideman to. Mr Lacy Mr Whiting Mr Lieberman Mr Williams ADJOURNMENT Mr McArthur Mr Wood Mr McCance Tellers: Subsidies for library services-Goor­ Mr McClure Mr Brown nong police station-Co-operative Mr McGrath Mr Cox Farmers and Graziers Direct Meat Supply Ltd-Amstel Primary School Unanswered correspondence-Physi­ The House divided on the question cal education programme-Transport that the words proposed by Mr Ross­ subsidy for school children-Learner Edwards to be inserted be so inserted driver permits-Allegations against (Mr A. T. Evans in the chair). policeman-St Albans High School Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans- Ayes 46 port)-I move: Noes 32 That the House do now adjourn. Mr CATHIE (Carrum)-The matter I Majority for the insertion raise for the attention of the Minister for the Arts concerns the declining of the words 14 value of subsidies that are made to lib­ rary services which are organized through local government. The Minister AYES put out a press release last Friday Mr Austin Mr McInnes Mr Balfour Mr McKellar which was headed, "Library Increase". Mr Birrell Mr Mackinnon When one reads the actual details of Mr Burgtn Mr Maclellan the press release, one finds that the Min­ Mrs Chambers Mrs Patrick ister admits that the increase the Gov­ Mr Coleman Mr Ramsay Mr Collins Mr Reynolds ernment has granted this year is 25 cents Mr Crellin Mr Richardson a head of the population. Mr Oixon Mr Ross-Edwards Mr Ounstan Mr Skeggs The DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr A. T. Mr Ebery Mr Smith Evans)-Order! I appeal to honourable Mr Evans (South Barwon) members to come to order. I asked that (Gippsland East) Mr Smith honourable members show respect to Mr Hamer ( Warrnambool) Mr Hann Mr Tanner the honourable member when he was Mr Hayes Mr Templeton making a contribution to the debate and Mr Jasper Mr Thompson I notice that my remarks were ig­ Mr Jona Mr Trewin nored. I ask honourable members to re­ Mr Kennett Mr Weideman Mr Lacy Mr Whiting store order to the House and treat it Mr Lieberman Mr Williams with the respect that it deserves. Mr McArthur Mr Wood Mr CATHIE-When the Minister Mr McCance Tellers: Mr McClure Mr Brown talks about the continuing growth of Mr McGrath Mr Cox public library services run by local gov- 10 March 1981] Adjournment 5575 ernment, he ought to remember the sub­ man police station in the township of mission that was made to him by ,the Goornong. It has now been drawn to Library Association of Australia, Vic­ my attention by people in that town torian Branch, on behalf of public lib­ that there is an urgent need for the rary services in Victoria. On that replacement of the present police sta­ occasion, the association pointed out tion with a new building. The existing that in order for the subsidy to all muni­ building, which is a small timber cipal libraries to keep pace with the structure, is a one-room police station. rate of inflation alone, the ceiling for On my measurement the building would the subsidy would have to be raised to be no more than twelve feet by twelve $4 and not $3.25 which was all that feet. If one walks inside the police was granted in the Budget last year. station, to use the old terminology, 'fohat small increase of 25 cents means it would be difficult to swing a cat that the amount in the previous year . because it is used by the policeman actually went further, when there as his office, his interview room and as was no increase whatsoever. a store for all of his documents. I That means that over a 2-year period understand that the police are required of Government funding for local gov­ to store documents in police stations ernment library services it has failed for between seven and twelve years. to increase with inflation and is falling In addition, he has the various forms further and further behind. Consequent­ stored in the building. It really is a ly, there will be a 25 position loss very small, pokey office. It must date this year compared with last year as back many years because the timber staff is reduced in library services buildings and outbuildings are old throughout the State as a result of stables which are built of th~ same these effective cut-backs by the Gov­ timber. There is a need for a new ernment. police station to be built in the town­ What began as an equal partnership ship of Goornong, particularly since between the State Government and the Minister has given an assurance local government has become unequal that the one-man police station is to for the municipal government library continue into the future. I strongly service. The fact is that local councils support the claim that a new police are now putting in far more than the station is needed in the township of State Government. The average esti­ Goornong and I ask that the Minister mated expenditure by metropolitan take urgent action in this regard. councils on local library services this Mr FOGARTY (Sunshine)-On 3 year amounts to $4.86 cents a head, December last, I raised with the Treas­ compared with the miserly State Gov­ urer a matter dealing with Co-operative ernment effort of $3.25 a head. For Farmers and Graziers Direct Meat example, if one averages it out overall Supply Ltd. I asked the Treasurer it is still a figure of $4.10 cents­ whether he was aware that tenders that is. averaging it over the metro­ had been called for the sale of Co­ politan and country areas. operative Farmers and Graziers and In the municipality of Knox, the sub­ whether the Government had taken sidy as a percentage of the total part in any negotiations. In my opinion, amount provided for library services the reply given by the Treasurer­ has declined from 53 per cent to 44 using a meatworker's term-was a lot per cent in only four years. It is time of bull because he said quite frankly the State Government stopped produc­ that he had heard of some of the ing empty press releases and instead things but not of others. prepared a new State library plan for J ibrary services in the 1980s. "Snowy on the tram" dropped a Mr HANN (Rodney)-I raise a matter document off somewhere along the line with the 1\1inister for Police and from Co-operative Farmers and Grazi­ Emergency Services. The Minister will ers addressed to the First Assistant recall that he recently made a decision Director of Finance, Victorian Treas­ to allow the continuation of the one- ury, and signed by N. Keogh, Com- 5576 Adjournment [ASSEMBLY pany Secretary. The correspondence is what was said, was the third alterna­ dated 20 November 1980, some two tive for one or more, or both of the weeks prior to my asking a question two Governments, to purchase the of the Treasurer. works by paying out secured creditors. This document clearly outlines the This would require the payment of plight of Co-operative Farmers and $9 million to Barclays together with a Graziers at that date. I will quote from further sum of working capital-prob­ page 2 of the document which states: ably in the region of $2·3 million. The tenders produced only one offer, from The DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr A. T. a company called Stock Exports Pty. Limited Evans)-The honourable member has purportedly made upon behalf of Middle East clients, at an offer price of A$lO'5 million. one minute. The offer although made in unequivocal terms Mr FOGARTY-I do not have enough in writing was accompanied by an oral con­ dition expressed by the two Australian gentle­ time to finish. The pOint is that had men who appeared to constitute Stock Exports this Parliament been informed of the Pty. Limited, the condition being that their propositions put forward by Co-opera­ overseas principals confirm the offer. tive Farmers and Graziers prior to I now learn that the same company Parliament adjourning over Christmas also claims that Protean Roldings Pty we may have been able to put propo­ Ltd and Smorgons have also made sitions to the Government, in line with offers. Whether or not they have, the the propositions suggested to the simple truth is that we, the Victorian Treasurer by Co-operative Farmers and State Parliament, have authorized Bar­ Graziers. clays Bank to operate on behalf of At this point in time-do not talk Co-operative Farmers and Graziers as about casinos-we have meatworks on guarantor for an amount of $4· 5 our hands worth $4·5 million to the million. Pardon my English, but there Government and nothing is being done. is nothing deader than a meatworks No report is being made to Parliament. that is not operating. That meatworks It is time the Treasurer made a report. has not been operating for four or five I would like to hear what he has to months during which time interest say. rates have been accumulating so we Mr COLEMAN (Syndal)-I refer a will be owing more than $4· 5 million matter to the Minister of Public Works. the way we are going. It concerns ants in the class-rooms at My interest is that the meatworks Amstel Primary school. When the borders the electorate I represent. I school reopened after the Christmas have a vested interest because I would vacation three rooms were found to like to see 400 or 500 people working be infested by ants. Despite the best at the works. Also, the Opposition, the efforts of the school council and prin­ corner party and others voted to give cipal to have the Public Works De­ Co-operative Farmers and Graziers a partment come and spray the three go and the Treasurer, on 20 November, class-rooms concerned, no action has was aware of the financial plight of been taken. The school council was Co-operative Farmers and Graziers, asked to obtain three tenders. They and although he had the opportunity sought and received three prices which on 3 December to confirm the financial range from $189 to $360, which I am difficulties in which they were, he sure honourable members agree is not a chose not to do so but put over a large amount to pay for the conveni­ lot of baloney to hoodwink the Parlia­ ence of getting rid of ants from the ment. school class-rooms. The fact is that The situation is that we are the we are now into the fourth week of the school year and the ants are still guarantors to Barclays. Bank for $~' 5 there but no action has been taken. million. The company IS not operatmg and is in the hands of a receiver. I bring the matter to the attention Co-operative Farmers and Graziers of the Minister of Public Works-it made several propositions to the Gov­ has been taken up with the Public ernment. One, if we go back to Works Department-to have a speedy 10 ·March 1981] Adjournment 5577

resolution of the problem which I am It is extraordinary that the department, sure honourable members will agree having already incurred a liability of they would not like to live with. $14 000 in interest charges up to the Mr MAT HEWS (Oakleigh)-I raise date on which the matter was first with the Minister of Educational Ser­ raised by the council, goes on blithely vices an aspect of apparent adminis­ continuing to do so in a way which, on trative chaos which makes it possible my calculation, has increased its in­ for correspondence to go unanswered debtedness by a further $4000 since I for periods in excess of a year. On first raised the matter. 26 November 1979 I wrote to the Min­ On four separate occasions I have ister raising with him the matter of a rung the Minister's private office and debt of $14000 owed by his depart­ on each occasion I have been assured ment to the Oakleigh City Council. that a reply would be forthcoming This debt arises from the fact that in immediately. As recently as last Thurs­ 1976 the Education Department day, I rang the Minister's private approached the Oakleigh City Council secretary and was told that he would with the proposal that, in order to ring me back the same day with the extend the area of the grounds of the reply. Oakleigh Primary School, the depart­ I now ask the Minister of Educa­ ment should meet the cost of relocat­ tional Services: What is a member of ing on another site tennis courts this House expected to do in order to adjacent to those grounds. That pro­ get a reply; what must the Oakleigh posal was agreed to by the Oakleigh City Council do in order to have this City Council which subsequently sub­ large and increasing sum of money due mitted six progress payment claims to it paid over? over the period from 17 May 1977 to 29 June 1978, but no payment was Mr FORDHAM (Footscray)-I raise made by the Education Department with the Minister of Education a until 15 February 1979. matter concerning the reaction of a The result was that the council was number of constituents in my elec­ involved in servicing charges, interest torate and others across the State who charges for its outlays on the project, have approached me in my capacity as amounting to some $14000. The shadow Minister to the Minister's council accordingly raised the matter announcement of 20 January on the of this additional cost with the Educa­ introduction of a new policy relating tion Department and Mr Neville Rohan to physical education in schools in Vic­ of that department wrote to the toria. If implemented, the Minister's council saying, inter alia: proposals would cause a revolution on the question of school curriculum and On the question of the delay caused by the Department in making progress payments to physical education. the City Council, I find that our administrative A number of aspects have caused action left much to be desired. You have indicated that the delay in reimbursement to concern. The first is that physical Council caused a loss of interest amounting educa tion is to be a compulsory part to $14,000. To enable me to assess this particu­ of the core of all school operations, by lar matter, I would appreciate, without preju­ prescription of the Government. The dice, complete details that would substantiate exact number of minutes is specified in such a claim. the Minister's statement and in a Those complete details were provided report to which the Minister referred in June 1979, but no action was taken and which he indicated that the Gov­ by the Education Department. ernment adopted in large measure. I raised the matter with the depart­ From preparatory to level two, the ment in November 1979. The most requirement is 20 minutes a day; from recent letter from the council to the level three to level six, 30 minutes a Education Department is dated Feb­ day; and for post primary students, ruary 1980. Neither the council nor I 200 minutes a week. It would appear have been successful in getting any that a fair amount of thought had gone reply from this obdurate department. into the Government's decision and the Session 1981-192 5578 Adjournment [ASSEMBLY inference was that the proposals were forward to an indication from him as to be implemented immediately in the to when this new policy proposal is to 1981 school year. take effect. The concern of my constituents and It has been suggested that the Min­ myself is not the notion that physical ister of Education is going around say­ education should be extended in ing quietly that this was to be some­ schools; to the contrary. I accept the thing for the future, that the depart­ comments made very clearly by my ment is working towards it and that colleague, the shadow Minister for one day in the future that situation Youth, Sport and Recreation, and, for may be reached. That is quite a dif­ that matter, the Minister for Youth, ferent situation from the announce­ Sport and Recreation, on a need for ment of the Minister. Schools are more physical education in our schools expecting some input as soon as and in the community at large, but I possible to allow them to take buck at the notion of it being com­ advantage of this proposal. pulsory. I believe classes should be I indicated that surely the Minister's able to fit it in to their curriculum in a statement was not grandstanding, that voluntary way rather than it being it was a sincere statement and I look imposed, but it is not that aspect I am forward to his comment and his assur­ dwelling upon. ance that the necessary resources will I should like to know where the be. provided, and perhaps he will tell resources will be found for the imple­ us when the programme is to be im­ mentation of this decision and what is plemented. now the timetable for its implementa­ Mr BIRRELL (Gee long West)-I raise tion. The inference was that it was to a matter with the Minister of Educa­ take effect immediately for the 1981 tional Services, not being sure whether school year. However, when the heat it is his personal responsibility or that died down from this momentous of the Minister of Education. It deals announcement, we learned that some with the system of transport subsidies. 2000 additional teachers would be Honourable members are all aware of required and many hundreds of schools the 3-mile limit and the fact that a would need extra facilities to under­ student who chooses to bypass one take these courses, and additional school and attend another school training opportunities would be needed further removed forfeits his right to a within the colleges of advanced educa­ transport subsidy. That has been a tion ·to train those teachers, given the long-standing policy, but the matter is necessary resources. This is in an en­ not always quite so black and white vironment where staff ceilings are as that. imposed by the Education Department It is not precisely my electoral on the appointment of teachers and responsibility to sort out this matter where the colleges of advanced educa­ but I am interested in it because I tion are reducing their intake of serve on the Geelong High School teacher trainees in this important area council. of education. In some areas, certain subjects may The Minister's response, it would not be taught at a secondary school appear, was that somehow or other and it may be necessary for students these people are to be included within to go to a school which is further existing staffing establishments, and removed from their residence to par­ somehow they are to be ·trained, by a ticipate in the classes necessary for means of which I am not aware and their educative process; in other words, of which schools and interested for their educational progress, they are teachers are not aware. There is con­ directed by the department to go to a fusion in the schools. It was perhaps school which results in their driving coincidental that this announcement in the bus past the school nearest to was made by the Assistant Minister their place of residence and proceeding during a conference on the issue. J look to the next school. it may be, as the 10 March 1981] Adjournment 5579 department says, that they have made society as second-class citizens and I some sort of choice to do that, but that ask the Minister to investigate the is not black and white. situation. The point I make is that, in those Dr COGHILL (Werribee)-I should circumstances, there ought to be some like the Minister for Police and Emer­ qualification to the black and white gency Services to 'investigate serious ruling of forfeiting the right to the allegations against 'a member of the transport subsidy. I raise this matter Police Force involved in an incident because there are students from with a constituent of mine. The incident Leopold who must pass the Newcomb is alleged t'O have occurred at approxi­ High School to go to Geelong High mately 3 p.m. on Wednesday, 25 School in order to get their education. February 1981. My 'constituent says he Because of their desire to undertake was walking in a main street 'of Werri­ certain subjects in the language field, bee when he wascaUed by name and they are virtually directed by the told, "Get here" by a policeman who Education Department to attend that was in a police van. The constituent school. It is a bit rich if, in those alleges that the policeman started to circumstances, they forfeit the right to abuse him verbally by saying that he, the subsidy, and I should like to see the policeman, was going to put him, the matter cleared up. the constituent, away for twelve months by planting drugs on him. It 'is Mrs TONER {Greensborough)-I alleged that the .policeman asked the address my remarks to the Minister for constituent to move and then again Police and Emergency Services and said that he was going t'O plant drugs raise a matter of grave discrimination on the constituent. The constituent sa'id against cit-izens born outside Australia he was going to keep out of trouble and who seek learner driver permits. The the policeman said he was going to get best 'way 'in which I can explain the him into trouble. situation is to read from a letter sent tome by a constituent, who states: It is alleged that the policeman then called the constituent and told him ,to On 3/3/81 I attended the Central Licence and put his head into the open window of Registration Office No. 2 at 457-9 Little Collins Street in order to obtain a learner driver'S the car and then told him that every permit. On completing the form and presenting person he was with would be booked identification I was asked where I was born. for consorting. The c'Onstituent claims I replied "U.K." and was then told I would have to produce my passport. I pointed out that my that the policeman then threw a punch present citizenship status entitled me to vote at him, which he ducked by pulling his and stand for parliament in Australia and head out of the window. My con­ further that no mention of such requirement stituent then sa·id he was going away was made in my copy of "Driving Licences". This booklet is prepared "with the aid of the soon and the policeman asked "Where?" Victoria Police". It was then explained to me The constituent said he would not tell that this requirement had been introduced in the policeman. The policeman then said September 1980 by the Police Department. "Where are you"-unparliamentary ex­ I wish to know by what authority the Police pression-"going?" and, "Wherever Department can impose such a requirement. you go 'we are going to find you". Further, I would like someone to explain to me what possible relevance one's country of birth The policeman then told the 'con­ can have to one's driving ability. Finally, I stituent to put his head into the car would like this practice stopped as it is clearly again and said, "One of these nights inappropriate to our multi-cultural society. I am going to make you run away from In this instance my constituent, who me", and as he said that he pulled his had not been informed about the regula­ gun out of his holster and put it to the tion, was gravely inconvenienced but, constituent's head. He said he was go­ even more seriously, I believe the re­ ing to blow his brains out. There was gulation is discriminating against citi­ further discussion and the policeman is zens who have made a contribution to then alleged to have said, "Get h'Ome our society. The department is treating now", using the person's name. The a large number of members of our person said that he was going up the 5580 Adjournment [ASSEMBLY street for a while. The policeman said, High School. I will look into the matter "If you go up the street we are going and inform the honourable member to take you to the station, put drugs accordingly. on you and lock you up." The honourable member for Oakleigh I have additional details relating to discussed unanswered correspondence, the incident which I would be quite which I gather is departmental corres­ happy to make available to the Minister pondence rather than correspondence to assist him in his investigations of directed to me, although the most re­ the matter. This is the type of incident cent letter would have been directed that, unfortunately, smears the reputa­ to me. I will follow up that question, tion of all policemen and, of course, which I believe relates to a long­ mars the confidence of young people in standing dispute between the City of police generally. I have raised the mat­ Oakleigh and the Education Department ter in Parliament because there have about who is responsible for paying the been disturbing reports that police have amount of $14 000. sued people who have followed the normal channels for making 'complaints The honourable member for Carrum raised the matter of the increase in of this nature. funding for municipal library services. If the allegations are correct it is dis­ He did not question the accuracy of gusting that this sort of thing should my press statement, which indicated occur. Certainly, it is not typical of tha t there had been an increase of $1· 57 members of the Victoria Police, but I million in library subsidies, continuing ask the Minister for an assurance that to keep Victoria's municipal library ser­ it will be fully and fairly investigated. vice at the forefront of library services Mr GINIFER (Keilor)-I direct a in Australia. The amount has been in­ matter to the attention of the Minister creased to $13 153 850 and the grants of Educational SerVlices concerning the have been increased from $3 a head of St Albans High School. Several years population to $3.25. The honourable ago a Commonwealth building was con­ member seemed to want to correct 'my structed at the site at a cost of approxi­ press release but did not question any mately $2 million. Repairs costing of the statements in it, which appear $400 000 were subsequently carried out to be accurate and which do not ap­ following a fire, and I thank the Min­ pear to require any explanation. I am ister for his assistance in that matter. not sure why the honourable member As there is a freeze on the security raised the matter unless he was simply services, whkh cost approximately peeved that I had issued a press state­ $5000, I ask the Minister to examine ment. the situation. The Deputy Leader of the Opposition The DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr A. T. raised a substantial matter that re­ Evans)-The honourable member's time quires a response from me and I shall has expired. make several points. The physical edu­ cation policy that I announced in Mr LACY (Minister of Educational January has been examined in detail Services) -The honourable member for and some of the wild statements made Syndal 'raised a problem concerning about its implications do not bear ants in class-rooms. I shall refer that scrutiny. There are some 2109 schools matter to my colleague for his atten­ in the State system and, as the policy tion in an effort to ensure that it is relates to providing a specialist trained fixed up quickly. The honourable 'mem­ physical education teacher for every ber for Geelong West asked about 210 children, in order to assess the im­ transport subsidies and I shaH refer that plications involved in staffing and train­ matter to the Minister of Educ'ation, ing one must take into account the fact whose responsibility it is. The honour­ tha t there are some 1148 schools in the able member for Keilor is concerned system that have enrolments of more about security services for the $400 000 than 210 children. The only way in replacement library at the St Albans which the policy would 'apply to schools 10 March 1981] Adjournment 5581 with enrolments of fewer than 210 in physical education. The conse­ pupils would be on the basis of shared quences of staffing are a 1 per cent physical education teachers. variation in the staffing of schools and Mr Fordham-But you reject that! an updating of physical education quali­ fications of teachers in schools. I am Mr LACY-I do not reject it. There meeting with principals tomorrow. to are 791 primary schools and 357 post­ discuss how to achieve that. An Im­ primary schools with enrolments of plementation committee has been esta~­ more than 210 pupils. At present there lished under a senior officer, Mr Denms are 1483 physical education teachers Stanton to ensure that the policy is in the State system, whose salaries implem~nted and achieved through a amount to $23 million a year, 397 of series of stages. whom are in primary schools. Most of them are not specialist trained but Furthermore, the Government is in­ have taken majors in physical educa­ vestigating the use of a series of man­ tion in their preservice training, al­ uals to be used in the interim period leading up to the full i~plementat!on though they do not have. two ~e~lfs' specialist physical educatIon tram'mg. of the policy for the phYSIcal educatIon Their qualifications would need to be teachers and other generalist physical updated. Now, 1136 physical education education teachers the Education De­ teachers are allocated in post-primary partment has now to fulfil the outcome schools; ten years ago there were no specified in the report. The Govern­ physical education teachers in primary ment has demonstrated its capacity to schools and only a small proportion of achieve an improvement for specialist those in post-primary schools were teachers for special assistance and in specialist trained-today nearly all t.his financial year it has demonstrated those in post-primary schools have had the provision of 300 additional teachers two years special training. at a cost of $4·5 million. The Government did not accept the The new physical education policy recommendations in the report on in­ I announced to be implemented and the door physical education that every report on which the statement is based school should have a swimming pool, recommended a five-year implementa­ but it did accept the proposition that tion policy. My statement referr~~ to every school needs an indoor facility implementation and staffing prOVISIons for physical education. Already, 65 per over a period and did not restrain the cent of all schools have indoor facilities Government to a five-year period. suitable for physical education-that is, However, if it were to be implemented 65 per cent of schools with an enrolment over whatever period, it would require of more than 210 have such a facility, 2043 physical education teachers em­ 454, 57 per cent primary s~hools ployed in schools-that is, it would and 294, 82 per cent post-prImary require 1097 in primary schools and schools have that facility. With its 946 in post-primary schools. Conse­ current ecacentre programme in the tri­ quently, if that figure is deducted, the ennium 1981 to 1983 the Government department needs another 510 teachers will provide 80 facilities for post-prim­ from within the system allocated to ary schools and when tha~ programme physical education-that is a 1 per is completed every post-prImary scho~l cent variation in the staffing of schools will have a facility suitable for phYSI­ from within the existing staff, especi­ cal education. That is a four-fold in­ ally given that there are 56000 crease in the delivery of that type of teachers and the Government is saying facili ty over the previous triennium that 510 more will be allocated physi­ and, when that is completed, the Gov­ cal education responsibilities, and that ernment will be able to move more would be enough to implement the substantially with the funds available policy. for this programme into the primary If one literally applied the policy as sector and complete the 43 per cent of stated to post-primary schools, one primary schools that do not have a would need a reduction of 190 teachers multi-purpose room. 5582 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

I can demonstrate that not only is stituent about the behaviour of a the policy being adopted for imple­ policeman. He has given me the docu­ mentation over a period and an imple­ ments and I shall be pleased to ex­ mentation committee established to amine that matter. get the process flowing but also the policy has been well received in The honourable member for Sun­ schools. Numerous schools have indi­ shine described an answer I gave to a cated that they are pursuing the policy question on the Farmers and Graziers and have accepted it. Further, I have Co-operative Meat Supply Ltd last heard of schools where it has been im­ sessional period as a "lot of bull". I plemented overnight. I indicated that have checked the eight lines of my the resources required to achieve that reply in Hansard and wonder why the policy are within the reach of the de­ honourable member did not describe it partment within the years specified in as a "little bull". I hope I never strike the report. him as a butcher or bank manager! Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police I would like to be able to say that the and Emergency Services)-The honour­ Government has reached a mutually able member for Rodney pOinted out acceptable solution to safeguard the that the existing police station at $4·5 million guarantee of the State Goornong would not be large enough Government and the $4·5 million guar­ to swing a cat. Even though cat swing­ antee of the Federal Government but ing is not a regular function of the I cannot do so at this stage. I shall be Police Force, I know what he means having further discussions with Min­ and will examine the problem. isters and officers this week. I would The honourable member for Greens­ welcome a further discussion with the borough drew my attention to an honourable member because of his alleged case of discrimination against specialist knowledge of the meat in­ a migrant in applying for a provisional dustry-this week, for preference. licence and I shall be happy to examine that complaint. The motion was agreed to. The honourable member for Werri­ The House adjourned at 12.38 a.m. bee referred to a complaint by a con- (Wednesday) .

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE The following answers to questions Commonwealth Government in late 1974 to on notice were circulated- provide specific funding for a three year period. The document was studied within the depart­ HOMELESS PERSONS ASSISTANCE ment but no formal comment was made to the PROGRAMME Department of Social Security because the pro­ (Question No. 3) gramme was a Commonwealth responsibility and my department's only official involvement Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the was to have an observer on the Victorian Ad­ Minister for Community Welfare visory Committee on Homeless Persons. The programme had provided that such advisory Services: committees be established in each State. I am Whether the Department of Community Wel­ aware that those committees responded to the fare Services has received the Department of document at the invitation of the Minister for Social Security paper "The Future of the Home­ Social Security. less Persons Assistance Programme"; if so, whether the Department intends to comment on ASSISTANCE FOR HOMELESS the paper and, in that event, whether a copy of PERSONS those comments will be made available to the (Question No. 4) member for Brunswick? Mr JONA (Minister for Community Mr ROPER {Brunswick) asked the Welfare Services)-The answer is: Minister for Community Welfare My department received the Department of Services: Social Security paper "The Future of the Home­ 1. Whether he and/or officers of the Depart­ less Persons Assistance Programme" during ment of Community Welfare Services are 1977. That paper was prepared as an asses­ having consultations with the Commonwealth sment of the programme because it was nearing Minister for Social Security and/or her officers completion, having been implemented by the concerning the existing Commonwealth prog- 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5583 ramme of assistance to homeless persons; if used to describe an assortment of groups in so, on what basis those discussions are occ~r­ the community and in fact is now particularly ring and what is the current state of the dIs­ relevant to the young unemployed. It is in cussions? this area that my department has concentrated resources in recent years. However in terms 2. Whether it is the State's policy to take of the Commonwealth Homeless Persons As­ over the administration of services presently sistance Programme, "homeless persons" was provided under the Commonwealth Homeless defined narrowly as being those who are per­ Persons Assistance Act; if so, on what basis manently or chronically homeless, sometimes and with what financial assistance from the referred to as "skid row", and the Common­ Commonwealth? wealth Government will continue to provide 3. What financial assistance the State pro­ the vast bulk of funding to agencies which vides towards homeless persons or organiza­ assist these clients. My department now makes tions assisting homeless persons? some contribution which I will detail later in Mr JONA (Minister for Community this answer. Welfare Services)-The answer is: 2. No, as is set out above, the Common­ 1. The Homeless Persons Assistance Act wealth Government will retain that responsi­ 1974, was enacted by the Commonwealth bility. However my department has made some Government in November 1974 with the inten­ contributions to agencies which provide assis­ tion of making capital grants directly to volun­ tance to the "skid row" population. From the tary agencies concerned with homeless persons. Welfare Services Fund for 1979-80, my depart­ It was the intention to fund approved projects ment made the following grants: such as night shelters, reception and assistance Hanover Welfare $20000 centres, hostels and such. Additionally the Melbourne City Mission- Government would fund one half of the salary Hotham House $10 000 of a social welfare worker employed at a home­ Hotham House $10 000 less persons assistance facility and subsidise the Victorian Council to Homeless costs of food and accommodation. Persons $20000 The project was launched initially as a No doubt the Commonwealth Government pilot programme for a three year term but met its commitment under the Homeless Per­ with the assent of the Commonwealth Parlia­ sons Assistance Programme by meeting one ment was extended for twelve months in late half of the salaries of social welfare workers 1977 and has been extended again, so it re­ employed at relevant facilities and paying sub­ mains current. However capital grants have sidies for accommodation and meals provided now ceased and funding is only made for the to clients of the service. welfare worker salaries and food and accom­ 3. As is set out in 2. above, my department modation subsidies. made certain contributions towards the relief There have been informal discussions be­ of homeless persons. However as I explained tween my department and the Department of earlier, that assistance related essentially to Social Security about the Homeless Persons skid row-type population. As I also indicated, Assistance Programmes as there have been my department has been endeavouring to as­ discussions about a whole range of pro­ sist other categories of homeless persons, par­ grammes. However there has never been any ticularly unemployed and shiftless youth. Under commitment for the State to take over, in this the Youth Accommodation Services Programme case, what has always been a Commonwealth for 1979-80, my department and the Common­ project. I would make the comment though wealth Department of Social Security made the that the expression "homeless persons" can be following grants: Total Category of expenditure operating expenditure, Re-location ].7.79 Operating of to Salaries costs residences 30.6.80 $ $ $ $ Moondana Hostel J9207.00 7900.00 800.00 27907.00 Salvation Army-Homeless Youth Project 54020.00 54020.00 Salvation Army-Shepparton 17036.50 11 780.00 750.00 29566.50 Ace /Fusion Community Group 12120.00 8880.00 2] 000.00 Salvation Army-Bayside Unemployed Self Help (BUSH) .. 7000.00 2000.00 9000.00 Western Regional Housing Council 30976.50 12273.50 1000.00 44 250.00 Melbourne City Mission ("Stopover") 10 000.00 10 000.00 North West Regional Housing Group 30976.50 11 600.00 42576.50 Western port Regional Housing Group 30976.50 6320.00 ] 000.00 38296.50 Outer East Youth Needs Group ., 7307.50 11 247.50 18555.00 Wimmera (Region) Housing Group 5718.50 750.00 3080.00 9548.50 Project UMY AC . . . . 5668.00 8875.00 3680.00 18223.00 Blackburn Baptist and Uniting Churches (SHAC) 3500.00 3500.00 Montrose House 2000.00 2000.00 Boronia Baptist Family and Youth Services 3000.00 3000.00 22] 007.00 ]00 126.00 10 310.00 331 443.00 5584 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Because the definition of homeless persons is system of sessional payment; if so, what were so wide, people who are of this category might the estimates for sessional payment for the receive assistance and support from any of a above financial years? number of welfare agencies. Some agencies of course provide a range of services and as such Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) are funded in a variety of ways. It might well -The answer is: be that grants made for instance under the 1. It is still intended to introduce sessional F ACS Programme to certain agencies might be payments for visiting medical officers at beneficial directly or indirectly to homeless Frankston Community Hospital upon termina­ persons. I make this point to highlight the tion of the current contracts with the Hospital difficulty in pin-pointing who homeless persons Board and the visiting medical officers. exactly are and particularly the virtual im­ 2. The Health Commission is aware of the possibility of detailing what assistance afforded report from the hospital concerning the cost such persons via agencies is financed by the of the proposal. The Health Commission's staff Government. My department makes hundreds have investigated the hospital's case. of separate grants each year. 3. Cost of modified fee for service 1978-79- REVIEW OF HOMELESS PERSONS $484397. ASSISTANCE ACT Cost of modified fee for service 1979-80- (Question No. 6) $828293. 4. Estimated cost if sessional payments sys­ Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the tem was in force in 1978-79-$284000. Minister for Community Welfare Ser­ Estimated cost for sessional payments if used vices: in 1979-80-$314 142. In respect of the review currently being undertaken by the Commonwealth of the Home­ HOMELESS PERSONS ASSISTANCE less Persons Assistance Act and grants under (Question No. 21) that Act, whether the State Government has made a submission to the Commonwealth; if Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the so, when, and whether copies of that sub­ mission will be made available to the Member Minister for Community Welfare Ser­ for Brunswick? vices: In respect of accommodation for homeless Mr JONA (Minister for Community persons: Welfare Services) -The answer is: 1. Whether the State Government has made In response to this question, I draw the any submissions to the Commonwealth con­ honourable member's attention to question No. cerning the operation of the Homeless Persons 4 which I answered simultaneously to this Assistance Act 1974 of the Commonwealth; and which contains, I think, adequate infor­ if so, what was the basis of the submissions mation about the Homeless Persons Assist­ and what was the Commonwealth's response? ance Act and grants made under the Act as well as my department's assistance to other 2. Whether he is aware that the present subsidies under the Act are based on 1973 categories of homeless persons. costs and are grossly inadequate and that My department made no submission to the there is apparently no intention to increase Commonwealth about this issue as it was, and subsidies for this financial year; if so, whether continues to be, a Commonwealth Govern­ he will make representations to the Common­ ment responsibility to provide assistance to wealth to have subsidies increased? homeless persons, which in this context, refers to "skid row" population. 3. Whether the State in any way intends to supplement the Commonwealth assistance to SESSIONAL PAYMENTS AT homeless persons in either the recurrent or FRANKSTON HOSPITAL capital area? (Question No. 8) Mr JONA (Minister for Community Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the Welfare Services) -The answer is: Minister of Health: 1. In response to this part of the question, 1. In respect of the Frankston Hospital, I draw the honourable member's attention to whether it is still intended to change the question No. 4 which I answered simul­ method of payment for service to a sessional taneously to this and which explains the dif­ basis by negotiation or otherwise? ferentiation between the Commonwealth's commitment to homeless persons, which is 2. Whether he is aware of a report from the defined broadly in this context as skid row hospital concerning the increased cost of such clients, and the State responsibility to other a proposal; if so, whether Health Commission categories of homeless persons, for example staff have investigated the hospital's case; if shiftless unemployed youth. The State then not, why? has made no submission to the Commonwealth 3. What was the cost of modified fee for as the provisions of the Homeless Persons service payments for the financial years Assistance Act of 1974 are that grants are 1978-79 and 1979-80? made directly to agencies through the Depart­ 4. Whether he and/or the commission carried ment of Social Security in each State. In any out any studies as to the cost of reverting to a case, Government departments are ineligible 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5585 to apply under the criteria established by the FRANKSTON COMMUNITY Department of Social Security. HOSPITAL 2. As I have said, provisions of the pro­ (Question No. 26) gramme referred to are purely a Common­ wealth responsibility and therefore there is Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the no justification for the State to intervene Minister of Health: even if the subsidies paid under the Act might In respect of the Frankston Community be inadequate at today's costs. There is an Hospital: advisory committee to the programme estab­ lished in each State which is comprised of 1. Whether at any stage prior to 16 May a variety of people, including some actively 1979, undertakings were made to the hospital involved in providing services to homeless that its planned extension would proceed; if so, persons eligible for assistance under the Act. who gave the undertakings and on what basis? No doubt those advisory committees are in 2. Whether he stated that there would be no an ideal position to report directly to the funds in financial year 1979-80; if so, on what Minister for Social Security in the matter of grounds this decision was made? shortcomings of the programme. Whether 3. Whether it is now intended to alter the any additional financial a~sistance is then given future plans for the hospital; if so, on what is subject to Commonwealth Government basis? policy. Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) 3. Again I refer to the answer to Question No. 4 and I reiterate that because of the intent -The answer is: of the Commonwealth Act, the people catered 1. No undertaking was given. for by the programme are not the type of 2. No funds were made available for the con­ client my department is currently worki!lg struction of stage IB during the financial year towards assisting. The Department of SOCIal 1979-80. Work in progress did not permit in­ Security has given priority to the skid royv clusion in that year's capital works programme, population and that concern should remaIn however, some funds were released for con­ with the Commonwealth and therefore the sulting fees for stage lB. State will not provide any supplementary 3. Meetings have commenced between Health assistance to the programme. Commission officers and hospital representa­ As I said in the reply to Question No. 4, tives to discuss modification of stage IB, to the State is committed to assisting homeless enable the most urgent of the hospital's needs persons of a different category, particularly to be met over the next three years. Funding unemployed youth. As I itemised in ~hat reply, details have not been finalized and further for instance my department's commItment for meetings will be held. 1979-80 for the Youth Accommodation Services Programme was $331443. CHILD MIGRANT EDUCATION PROGRAMME BUNDOORA GERIATRIC COMPLEX (Question No. 30) (Question No. 22) Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the Minister of Education Services, for the Minister of Health: Minister of Education: In respect of the allocation of funds for the In respect of the Child Migrant Education Bundoora Geriatric Complex: Programme in the electoral district of Bruns­ 1. Whether the previous Minister of Health, wick: the Honourable W. V. Houghton, M.L.C., or the 1. How many children are in nee,d of special Premier, promised $1 million for the complex assistance in each school? during the 197~79 financial year; if so, why only $600 000 was provided, forcing the post­ 2. How many children are receiving as­ ponement of the site road-works contract for sistance in each school? which tender approval had been sought from 3. What is the current number of teachers the Health Commission in March? in each school, specifying whether this is an 2. What works it is proposed to carry out increase or decrease on last year? this financial year, and at what cost? Mr LACY (Minister of Education Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) Services)-The answer is: -The answer is: My colleague, the Minister of Education ad­ vised the honorable member by letter dated 1. My predecessor did announce that $1 27 February, 1981 as follows: million would be allocated in the 1978-79 financial year for stage 1 planning and appro­ 1 and 2. Planning Services, through Ethnic Education Services receives information on the priate contracts. number of migrant and refugee children in Only $600000 was provided because of the Government schools in August each year. inability to spend the remaining amount during Decisions relating to numbers of children that financial year. needing and receiving special assistance aTe 2. In 1980-81 an amount of $63 000 has been made by the principal and staff of each school. allocated fOT administrative costs and finaliza­ The number of children receiving assistance tion of the earth works contract. at any particular school may vary depending on a number of factors including variations to 1979 for each school was calculated in Novem- (d) In the Primary Schools Division the ~ the intakes of students, changing needs of the ber 1978. However, changes in enrolment pat- procedure for the allocation of teachers .to 00 students, the availability of staff and the terns led to a revised establishment figure "English as a Second Language" duties 0) willingness of "English as a Second Language" being calculated during term one 1979. The changed from 1979 to 1980. For 1980 it has staff and normal school staff to work in a team- figures provided in this table relate to the re- been the responsibility of principals to teaching approach. vised establishment. . nominate member(s) of staff to carry out

The 1980 Ethnic Education Services/ (b) In the case of post-primary schools the "~n~lisha~.a ~econd L~nguage" duties. from Pl~nningServices census returns are currently 1980 establishment figure was based on returns Wlthm the special needs staffing allocation to ,Q bemg processed; only the 1979 statistics are submitted by schools to the Ethnic Education each school. , s:: available at present. ~ervices/J?lanningServices census. Variations (e) Primary Principals advised the Director ~ .. 3. I~the follOwing tables, information about In estabhshment figures. f~om.1979-80 are of Primary Education on the names of members g. En~hshas a Second Language" staffing is therefore caused by vanations In enrolment of staff carrying out migrant education duties ;::s provld~d.~owevt:r, the table ~houldbe read patterns from year to year. in March 1980. The figures provided in the Cl) In conjunction WIth the follOWIng notes: (c) It is noted that establishment figures do table have been taken from returns made by 0 (a) A provisional establishment figure for not always match actual staffing figures. principals. ;::s

TABLE ONE ~f"'to o· PRIMARY ScHOOLS «)

Incr~as~ Staffing or Aust,alian O,~rseas 1980 Decr~ase Total Bo,n Bo,n 1979 Allocation oiler Total Migrant Migrant Unknown Establish- by Establish­ School Nam~ Enrolment En~C:per ~nt. IkIckpolUld pe, C~",. ·lkIckgrolUld per c~"t. Birthplace p~r cent. m~nt Principal ment Brunswick 660 476 72.12 298 45.15 173 26.21 5 0.76 7 5 -2 Carlton North 210 92 43.81 69 32.86 23 10.95 1 no return submitted Brunswick South 286 139 48.6 121 42.31 18 6.29 3 1.1 -1.9 Moreland 775 655 84.52 376 48.52 256 33.03 ij 2.97 6 no return submitted Brunswick West 200 137 68.5 104 52 33 16.5 2 no return submitted Princes Hill 520 78 15 55 10.58 23 4.42 I 1 Merri 431 311 72.16 255 59.16 56 12.99 4 3 -1 Brunswick' East 364 278 76.37 229 62.91 46 12.64 3 o.si 4 2 -2 Brunswick North .. 771 739 95.85 499 64.72 239 31.0 I 0.13 7 6 -I Brunswick North West 279 116 41.58 65 23.3 51 18.28 2.6 I -1.6

TABLE TWO POST-PRIMARY SCHOOLS

English as a S~cond Numlwr Australian Overseas Language Staffing ,....., Total Born Born 1979 1980 Increase Total Migrant Migrant Unknown Establish- Establish- or > School Name Enrolment E:::a1;':~INr cent. Background per cent. Background per cent. Birthplace p~r cent. ment ment becreas~In In Brunswick Technical School .. 432 250 57.87 99 22.92 135 31.25 16 3.7 4.5 4 0.5 tr1 Brunswick Hiah School .. 808 610 75.5 349 43.19 261 32.3 8 7 -I ~ Brunswick East High School .. 585 400 68.38 194 33.16 206 35.21 4 4 to 471 402 Moreland High School 85.35 214 45.44 178 37.79 10 2.12 S 4 -1 r-c Princes Hill High School 702 189 26.92 128 18.23 61 8.69 5 4 -1 ~ 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5587

STAFFING AT MARYBOROUGH AND and the Minister of Health so that a decision DISTRICT HOSPITAL could be made regarding further studies to be carried out. (Question No. 34) (d) The working party has completed its Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the report and submitted it to the Attorney­ General and the Minister of Health for con­ Minister of Health: sideration. In respect of staffing at the Maryborough and ( e) The Minister of Health and the District Hospital, whether the Health Com­ Attorney-General are examining the recom­ mission has received a detailed submission for mendations of the working party and will con­ additional establishment positions; if so, which sider the request by the member for Bruns­ positions and whether those positions are to be wick. approved this financial year? Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) COMMUNITY HEALTH PROGRAMME -The answer is: (Question No. 61) Additional staff submissions have been re­ ceived by the Health Commission for the fol­ Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the lowing: Minister of Health: 2 Teachers In respect of the Community Health Pro­ 1 Charge Sister gramme: 1 Sister 6 Nursing Aides 1. Whether the proposed Waverley com­ 1 Male Orderly/Cleaner munity mental health team has begun to func­ 1 Supply Officer tion; if so, on what basis and with which staff? 1 Medical Records Clerk 2. Whether its activities extend or will ex­ 1 Driver/Handyman tend to the Shire of Knox; if so, on what basis Funds are not available this financial year to and whether it is intended such a locally based cover these positions. team be created for Knox as well? Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) LEGAL POSITION OF RETARDED -The answer is: PERSONS The Waverley Community Mental Health (Question No. 49) Programme began functioning from temporary accommodation with two staff and the further Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the development of the project proceeded slowly Minister of Transport, for the Attorney­ due to difficulties with the recruitment of ap­ propriately-qualified and experienced staff. General: Difficulties were also experienced due to the In respect of the legal position of retarded lack of suitable premises. The two occupied children and/or retarded adults whether an positions, an occupational therapist and a social inter-departmental working party has been worker, also became vacant in October, 1980. set up; if so-Ca) when; (b) what is the When the level of Commonwealth Govern­ membership of the committee; (c) what are ment funding for the community health pro­ the terms of reference; (d) when it is ex­ grammes in 1980-81 became known, it was pected to report; and ( e) whether a copy of found that it would not be possible to proceed the report will be made available to the mem­ with all community mental health projects at ber for Brunswick? the anticipated level of operation. It is now Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ proposed to defer further consideration of the development of the Waverley Community port)-The answer supplied by the Mental Health Project until the 1981-82 budget Attorney-General is: delibera tions. The following answer has been provided by the Attorney-General: LACK OF CORNEAS FOR GRAFTING (a) An interdepartmental working party was established in March 1980 by both the (Question No. 74) Attorney-General and the Minister of Health to examine the care and guardianship of re­ Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the tarded children. Minister of Health: (b) The interdepartmental working party Whether the Health Commission is aware of comprised the following members: Dr J. L. the lack of corneas for grafting; if so, what Evans, Health Commission (convenor); Dr G. action is being taken to increase the supply of McBrearty, Psychiatrist Superintendent of the donor material? Children'S Cottages, Kew; Miss M. L. Warren, Legal Officer, Law Department. Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) (c) The terms of reference of the inter­ -The answer is: departmental working party were to examine I am aware of the shortage of corneas for and clarify the issues for the Attorney-General grafting. 5588 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

A working party on tissue transplantation clarification of a number of difficulties which has provided a report with recommendations to currently exist. If the honourable member has the Honourable the Attorney-General and not seen he report I will be pleased to send him myself recommending changt::s. in Vict~rian a copy. legislation. We are currently JOintly consIder­ ing the report and the form which legislation PETROL PRICES may take. The report was released in Septem­ ber 1980 to allow public discussion. It seems (Question No. 100) likely that the recommendations of the working party if adopted would result in an increased Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the supply of corne~s for transplantation. beca~~ Minister for Minerals and Energy: of the clarificatlon of a number of dlfficultles which curently exist. If the honourable member 1. Whether estimates prepared by the De­ has not seen the report I will be pleased to partment of Minerals and Energy agree with send him a copy. the estimate of the Commonwealth Minister for National Development, that by the late 1980's Australian motorists are likely to be KIDNEY TRANSPLANTS paying at least four times as much for pet­ (Question No. 75) rol as now? 2. At what point it is estimated that rising Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the petrol prices will lead to a reduction in petrol Minister of Health: consumption, indicating the effect for repre­ In respect of kidney transplants for sufferers sentative price levels and income groups? of renal disease: 3. What arrangements have been made for 1. How many such transplants have been rationing liquid fuel in the case of-(a) a pro­ carried out in each of the past five years? tracted fuel shortage; and (b) price increases of the magnitude forseen by the Common­ 2. Whether there has been an actual fall in wealth Minister, indicating how access to the number of transplants due to a falling liquid fuel is to be preserved for-O) low in­ number of donor referrals? come groups; and (ii) primary producers? 3. What steps are being taken by the Health Commission to ensure that the donation of Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Min­ kidneys and other organs is encouraged? erals and Energy)-The answer is: Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) 1. My department has raised this matter -The answer is: with the Commonwealth Department of Nat­ 1. A survey of such t.ransplants has b~en ional ,Development and Energy and the Com­ carried out In renal umts at the follOWing monwealth advises that estimates of petrol prices in the 1980s have not been prepared hospitals: by them and that the estimate of a quadrup­ The Royal Melbourne Hospital ling of petrol prices by the late 1980s is not Prince Henry's Hospital based upon an accurate report of any state­ St Vincent's Hospital ment by the then Minister for National Deve­ Alfred Hospital lopment. Austin Hospital 2. Most statistical studies indicate that ris­ The total number of transplants for each of ing petrol prices will lead to a significant, the last five years is as follows: though not necessarily substantial, reduction 1976- 98 in petrol consumption. This effect can be ex­ 1977-134 pected to operate for all consumers, although 1978-113 precise quantification of differences in the fall 1979-120 of petrol consumption as between income 1980-figures not yet available. groups has been rarely studied. Petroleum 2. There has been no actual fall in the num­ consumption in Victoria in 1980 fell by 7 per ber of transplants, although the number of cent compared to 1979. patients waiting for transplantation has in­ 3. (a) My department in conjunction with creased. However, there has been a decrease in other State Government agencies is respon­ the number of cadaver donors which has been sible for arrangements for the allocation and off-set by an increase in transplants from live distribution of liquid fuels in all contingencies relatives. in Victoria. In the event of national supply 3. A working party on tisstre transplantation shortages, extensive liaison with the Common­ has provided a report with recommendations to wealth and other State Governments will be the Honourable the Attorney-General and my­ required. Arrangements for the allocation of self recommending changes in Victorian legis­ liquid fuels in a protracted fuel shortage are lation. We are currently jointly considering the being considered by the Department of Min­ report and the form which legislation may take. erals and Energy. In this regard the depart­ The report was released in September 1980 to ment receives substantial advice from the Vic­ allow public discussion. It seems likely that torian Petroleum Advisory Committee, which the recommendations of the working party if I set up last year. The committee advises on adopted would result in an increased supply of the potential impacts of fuel shortages on the kidneys for transplantation because of the various sectors of Victoria's economy and the 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5589 community and the impact of procedures and Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) priorities that the Government may adopt in emergencies. The committee is very repre­ -The answer is: sentative and includes among its members 1. Dental decay is one of the most common industry organizations covering the affected diseases in the world and its distribution sectors (including primary producers) as well among the population is virtually universal. as representatives of the oil industry, trade Its incidence in the electoral district of Oak­ union movement and local government. Co­ leigh would approximate that of other locali­ ordination of this planning with planning ties in the metropolitan area. being done in other States and Territories is The first dental clinics were established in achieved through the National Petroleum Ad­ the western suburbs and have been progres­ visory Committee set up by the Commonwealth sively extended to the northern suburbs. The Government following an agreement of State scheme is also making progress in the Geelong and Federal energy Ministers. and La Trobe areas. ( b) Price increases of the magnitude The rate at which these clinics can be estab­ claimed by the honourable member were not lished is governed by the number of dental projected by the Commonwealth Minister as therapists graduating from the Dental Therapy claimed. School and the availability of finance. The decision was made to commence the MINISTRY OF FUEL AND POWER dental therapy scheme in the western suburbs ENERGY REPORT on the basis of greatest need for service, and to radiate out from this area until the entire (Question No. 101) metropolitan district was covered. Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the 2. There are still no plans to establish den­ tal clinics or serviced concrete platforms for Minister for Minerals and Energy: mobile dental units in the electoral district of What was the-( a) date; and (b) substance, Oakleigh. of each request for-(i) information; and (ii) advice, received by the Victorian Government DIRECTORS OF BUILDING AND from the Commonwealth Government in con­ nection with the preparation of the Report of CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES the Ministry of Fuel and Power on Energy, (Question No. 139) dated March, 1977, and what was the date and substance of the Victorian response in each Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the case? Minister for Minerals and Energy, for Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for the Minister for Local Government: Minerals and Energy) -The answer is: Whether any directors of building societies The Department of Minerals and Energy has and co-operative housing societies are, or no record of any request from the Common­ have been, members, directors or office holders wealth Government for information on advice of guarantors approved pursuant to section in connection with the preparation of the re­ 918E of the Local Government Act 1958 or port on Energy by the Ministry of Fuel and their sponsoring organizations; if so, what are Power dated March 1977. their names and the organizations concerned? Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for SCHOOL DENTAL SERVICE Minerals and Energy) -The answer (Question No. 109) supplied by the Minister for Local Gov­ ernment is: Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the The house builders' liability provisions of Minister of Health: the Local Government Act 1958 provide that 1. What investigations were carried out to the Governor in Council shall not approve a determine the order of priority in which schools body corporate as a guarantor unless he is, would be allocated the services of school den­ among other things, satisfied that the directors tists and dental therapists, and whether it of the body corporate are persons of good was established that the dental health of chil­ financial standing and likely to be able properly dren in the electoral district of Oakleigh and competently to perform the functions of equalled or was better than the dental health directors of an approved guarantor. of all other areas in which the service is cur­ Clause 3 of the Local Government (House rently operating; if so, whether he will make Builders' Liability) Regulations 1974 provides, available copies of the relevant reports? among other things, that an approved guarantor 2. What progress concerning inclusion of body shall not appoint a person as a director the electoral district of Oakleigh in the School unless at least fourteen days' notice of inten­ Dental Service has been made since the answers tion to so appoint that person has been given given by his predecessor to the member for to the Minister for Local Government. Brunswick on 20 April 1978 and 10 October I am aware that some of the directors of 1978 in response to question Nos. 107 and the approved guarantor bodies are directors of 1245 and reported in Hansard at pages 1958 building societies, but do not believe that such and 4427, respectively? a directorship has any relevance to their 5590 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY capacity to perform as a director of an ap­ Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for proved guarantor body. Furthermore, I con­ Minerals and Energy) -The answer sider that the personal and confidential i~for­ mation given to the Government by the dIrec­ supplied by the Minister for Local tors of the approved guarantor bodies, should Government is: be treated as such and there is no justification I have been advised by Housing Builders for obtaining and supplying the details re­ Association Ltd (HBAL) as follows: quested. John Woolley has neither ma~ application nor ever been registered by Housing Builders Association Ltd pursuant to the House HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY Builders' Liability Act. (Question No. 140) The company, Fisher and Fisher Pty Ltd, was registered for the purposes of the Act Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the on 23 September 1974 with directors Dominic Minister for Minerals and Energy, for Gargano and Lynette McNicol. Mr J. R. the Minister for Local Government: Woolley was shown as the nominee to whom correspondence should be addressed. Early Whether he has satisfied himself that each in 1975, the HBAL Applications Manager approved guarantor pursuant to the house became suspicious about the company and builder's liability provisions of the Local Gov­ suspected that changes had occurred of which ernment Act 1958 maintains a register of HBAL had not been notified, as required under dwelling houses as required to section 918F its rules. Investigations revealed that on 30 (1) (b); if so, on what date each register was May 1975 Dominic Gargano resigned as a commenced? director and Fisher and Fisher had failed to notify HBAL as required under its rules. A Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for search revealed that Mr J. R. Woolley had Minerals and Energy) -The answer joined the board and appeared to have control supplied by the Minister for Local Gov­ of the company. ernment is: This information was confirmed and docu­ mented in September 1975 whereupon the Yes, I am assured that each app'roved guaran­ HBAL served a notice on the builder Fisher tor pursuant to the house buIlders' liability and Fisher Pty Ltd to show cause why it provisions of the Local Government Act 1958 should not be deregistered for having failed maintains a register of dwelling houses as re­ to comply with the rules. quired by section 918F (1) (b) of the Local At an executive committee meeting, it was Government Act 1958. Extracts from the regis­ resolved on 16 October that Fisher and Fisher ters maintained by the approved guarantor Pty Ltd be removed from the Register of bodies since 15 October 1974 have been lodged Builders, such removal to take effect from with me. 24 October 1975. The company appealed against the decision JOHN WOOLLEY and the Appeals Tribunal agreed to hear the matter on Thursday, November 13 1975. Fisher (Question No. 141) and Fisher failed to appear at the hearing and the appeal was disallowed. No houses were Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the registered by Fisher and Fisher during the Minister for Minerals and Energy, for period after the introduction of the House the Minister for Local Government: Builders' Liability Act in October 1974. 1. What were the dates on which John HBAL at a later date discovered that John Woolley and any firm including John Woolley Woolley had entered into a contract in breach as a director or partner, were granted regis­ of the House Builders' Liability Act, and a tration by the Housing Builders Registry Board successful prosecution was brought against and/or the Housing Builders Association Ltd, him at Sunshine-St Albans Court. pursuant to the house builder's liability pro­ visions of the Local Government Act 1958; DAFFY AND JOHNSON PTY LTD indicating in each case whether the firm is (Question No. 142) currently registered and, if not, the date and the circumstances in which registration was Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the terminated? Minister for Minerals and Energy, for 2. Whether any claims have been made the Minister for Local Government: against John Woolley or any firm including 1. What were the dates on which Daffy John Woolley as a director or partner, pursuant and Johnson Pty Ltd or any other firm with to the house builder's liability provisions of some or all of the same directors as Daffy the Local Government Act 1958, indicating in and Johnson Pty Ltd were granted registration each case-(a) the substance of the claim; by the Housing Builders Registry Board and/or (b) the period from lodging of the claim to the Housing Builders Association Ltd, pursuant settlement; (c) the name and building industry to the house builder's liability provisions of positions and affiliations of the arbitrator, if the Local Government Act 1958, indicating in any; and (d) the outcome? each case whether the firm is currently regis- 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5591

tered and; if not, the date and the circum­ relating to floor joists of the kitchen and pas­ stances in which registration was terminated? sageway of dewelling (purchasers: R. A. and 2. Whether any claims have been made J. P. Morton). against Daffy and Johnson Pty Ltd, or any (b) Date to settlement: 1 February 1979. other firm with some or all of the same directors as Daffy and Johnson Pty Ltd, pur­ (c) No arbitrator involved. suant to the house builder's liability provisions ( d) Outcome: Inspection by company on 15 of the Local Government Act 1958, indicating June 1978 revealed that joists and bearers had in each case-(a) the substance of the claim; not been located in such a manner as to be (b) the period from lodging of the claim to under walls. Recommended that further stumps settlement; (c) the name and building industry and bearers be provided under affected areas positions and affiliations of the arbitrator, if to support floor joist where movement occurs. any; and (d) the outcome? Claim validated and settlement. (v) (a) Substance: letter of complaint re­ Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for ceived from Ms O. Brokenshire received on 24 Minerals and Energy) -The answer August 1979. Complaints related to movement supplied by the Minister for Loca] in the bathroom resulting in shower base split­ ting, glass screens, sliding door ceased to func­ Government is: tion and bounce in floor in the lounge-room. 1. Daffy and Johnson Pty Ltd was recognized (b) Date to settlement: 14 November 1979. by Housing Builders Association Ltd on 8 January 1975. The firm was deregistered by (c) No arbitrator involved. voluntary removal from the register on 5 (d) Outcome: Inspection carried out by this December 1977. As far as HBAL is aware, company on 25 September 1979 revealed that the directors of this company are not and no item constituted a defect or a major defect. have not been the directors of any other firm (vi) (a) Substance: letter of complaint dated registered with Housing Builders Association 8 September 1976 received from C. R. and U. Ltd. B. Frearson of Lot 6 Norton Road, Macedon. 2. I have been advised by Housing Builders Items of complaint related to brickwork and Association Ltd that: sagging roof. (i) (a) Substance: Complaint by letter (b) Date to settlement: Matter found to be dated 7 April 1976 from Mr I. J. Robbins contractual and purchaser advised to arbitrator of Lot 43 Gardiner Street, Gisborne, as to a under the provisions of the building agree­ number of items of a minor nature. ment. (b) Date to settlement: 8 February 1977. (c) No arbitrator involved. ( c) No arbitrator involved. (d) Outcome: Letter dated 9 July 1976 from (d) Outcome: Builder rectified defects and builder adviSing that they would complete out­ purchaser advised that he was happy with standing works and endeavour to obtain Certificate of Occupancy. Builder rectified result. brickwork but not sag in roof line of south-west (ii) (a) Substance: Complaint by letter gable to roof. Purchasers advised by letter on dated 15 October 1976 from Mr J. Weller of 19 April 1978 to obtain quotes to have roof 22 Gardiner Street, Gisborne regarding leak­ rectified. No quotes or contact received from ing roof, chipped tiles, problems with the purchasers since that date. drainage system and various minor defects. (vii) (a) Substance: letter of complaint '(b) Date to settlement: 4 August 1977. dated 14 April 1977 received from G. Jackson ( c) No arbitrator involved. of Lot 12 Racecourse Street, Riddell, such com­ plaints relating to 25 items. (d) Outcome: Inspection carried out 16 May 1977 and builder requested to rectify leaking (b) Date to settlement: Refer (d). roof, chipped tiles and to connect downpipe (c) No arbitrator involved. correctly. Dwelling re-inspected 4 August 1977 (d) Outcome: Reply received from builder and rectification work had been completed. in June 1977 advising that works had been at­ tended to. Letter dated 16 June 1977 from (iii) (a) Substance: complaint by letter purchaser advising that builder's statement not dated 22 June 1977 from M. and J. Williams correct as he considered less than half the of Lot 14 Racecourse Street, RiddeU, relating items had been rectified. Inspection conducted to minor defects to joinery, oil burner and in July 1977 by this company. Notice sent to spouting. builder to rectify items on list attached to that (b) Date to settlement: 19 September 1977. letter. Further inspection conducted by this (c) No arbitrator involved. company on 4 August 1977 revealed that no works carried out. Letter sent to purchaser on (d) Outcome: Inspection by board on 19 29 August 1977 requesting him to obtain at September 1977 identified that the defects least two quotes to have the items rectified. would not fall within the one year (minor) As no response from purchaser, this company defects period which had expired on 7 July telephoned and was advised by Mr Jackson 1977. that he had been too involved with exams to (iv) (a) Substance: letter of complaint re­ spend time getting quotes, but would do so ceived from purchaser's solicitors, Madden, within the week. No contact from purchaser Butler, Elder and Graham, on 16 May 1978 since 24 November 1977. 5592 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

(viii) (a) Substance: letter of complaint (d) Outcome: Awaiting advice from pur­ dated 4 July 1977 from Mrs F. L. Jepsen of Lot chaser's solicitors as to whether works have 9 Peters Road, Gisborne, listing ten items. been completed or nearing completion. Letter dated 13 July 1977 to builder seeking (b) Date to settlement: Refer (d). their comments or intentions regarding the alleged defects within fourteen ( 14) days. (c) No arbitrator involved. Further lists of al1eged defects were submitted (d) Outcome: Awaiting advice from pur­ over a period of time which were aligned to a chaser's solicitors as to whether works have schedule of works of 36 items. been completed or nearing compl€tion. (b) Date to settlement: 21 December 1979. (c) In respect to Mrs Jepsen there was HOUSING CONSTRUCTION FIRMS arbitration on a set of circumstances differ­ ent to those mentioned. (Question No. 143) (d) Outcome: Maximum payment made to Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the purchaser under House Builders' Liability Act. Minister for Minerals and Energy, for (ix) (a) Substance: Letter of complaint received from purchaser's solicitors, Messrs the Minister for Local Government: Cannizzo, Lau and Associates, advising of five 1. What wer the dates on which Kenrich alleged defects in the client's home, namely Homes Pty Ltd, Kenrich Homes Victoria Pty Mr and Mrs Clarke. Copy forwarded to build­ Ltd, Howath Pty Ltd and any other firm with er on 21 April 1977 seeking their comments some or all of the same directors were granted or intentions. Builder advised by letter re­ registration by the Housing Builders Registry ceived on 8 June 1977 that all works had Board and/or the Housing Builders Association been attended to. Inspection conducted by our Ltd, pursuant to the house builder's liability company on 4 August 1977. Notice placed on provisions of the Local Government Act 1958, builder to fix. Purchaser advised on 29 Aug­ indicating in each case whether the firm is ust 1977 to obtain quotes. Further inspection currently registered and, if not, the circums­ conducted on 6 September 1977 which showed tances in which deregistration occurred? that certain items had been fixed and listed 2. Whether any claims have been made further complaints from purchasers. Agree­ against Kenrich Homes Pty Ltd, Kenrich Homes ment reached and amount of $10713 for­ Victoria Pty Ltd, Howath Pty Ltd, or any warded to purchaser on 11-7-79. Letter dated other firm with some or all of the same 9-8-79 from purchaser's solicitor detailing an­ directors, pursuant to the Housing Builders other claim. Quotation for further works re­ Registry Board Purchasers' Protection Agree­ ceived and cost of such quotation made pay­ ment or the house builder's liability provisions able to purchaser's solicitor for the amount of the Local Government Act 1958; if so, what of $130. Letter dated 4-3-80 from purchasers' was the-(a) number of claims; and (b) solicitor enclosing claim list wherein the amounts, indicating in each case where claims claimants claim an amount of $2703 plus were successful? $2925 for costs, entitlement of $12000, $650 for consulting engineers, $675 to John Ben­ 3. Whether any claims against Kenrich etti, plus an amount for Trembarth and Com­ Homes Pty Ltd, Kenrich Homes Victoria Pty pany Pty Ltd plus legal costs involved in mak­ Ltd, Howath Pty Ltd, or any other firm with ing the claim. Letter dated 7-3-80 from pur­ some or all of the same directors have been chaser's solicitor addressed to this company's rejected on the grounds that the firm was not solicitors enclosing listing of disputed items registered at the date when the contract was numbering 24. Owners' solicitors have referred signed, indicating if any misuse of a Housing those outstanding items to arbitration-date Builders Registry Board Purchasers' Protection of hearing to be advised. (Note: builder em­ Agreement or breach of the house builder's ployed by Mr and Mrs Clarke who carried liability provisions of the Local Government out rectification works has brought a claim Act 1958 was involved and, if so, what action against the purchaser in the Supreme Court was taken? for moneys outstanding for works done.) Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for (b) Date to settlement: Minerals and Energy)-The answer (c) Arbitration held Wednesday 22 Nov­ supplied by the Minister for Local ember 1977 between HBAL and builder (did Government is: not involve purchaser). Arbitrator Mr S. A. 1. I have been advised by Housing Builders Baker, F.I.Arb.A. Association Ltd that:- (d) Outcome: Still unsettled. ( a) Kenrich Homes Pty Ltd, was recognised (x) (a) Substance: Letter of complaint re­ on the commencement of operations. That firm ceived from Weigall and Crowther, solicitors was removed from the register on 4 July 1977 for the purchaser Mrs L. A. Minns, dated 10 for non payment of fees. August 1978 listing seven alleged defects. In­ (b) Kenrich Homes (Vie.) Pty Ltd was re­ spection carried out by this company on 5 cognised on 17 June 1976. That firm was re­ September 1978. Offer made to purchaser who moved from the register on 1 March 1979 be­ was obtaining quotations. cause it went into liquidation. (b) Date to settlement: Refer (d). (c) Howath Pty Ltd has never been recog­ (c) No arbitrator involved, nised by Housing Builders Association Ltd. 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5593

2. I have been advised by Housing Builders' (b) Date to Settlement: 13 December 1979. Association Ltd that claims have been received Consent given to the owners to proceed with in respect to each firm and that the details are rectification works. as follows: (c) No arbitrator involved. Kenrich Homes Pty Ltd. (d) Outcome: 17 March 1980 the sum of (a) Substance: complaint received on 15 $772 was forwarded to the owner as the work October 1979 from H. T. Brown, (a photocopy was now completed by the new builder. of letter to Kenrich Homes containing twelve (v) ( a) Substance: Letter of complaint re­ complaints) . ceived from the owners, R. A. & H. K. Johnson (b) Date to Settlement: 14 December 1979 on 21 March 1979 regarding outstanding owner instructed to obtain quotations. maintenance items. (c) No arbitrator involved. (b) Date to Settlement: 26 July 1979 (d) Outcome: No reply received from quotations accepted. Owners proceeding with owner. Follow-up letter 5ent on 3 July 1980 rectification works. saying the file will be closed in one month. (c) No arbitrator involved. 3. Kenrich Homes (Vic.) Pty Ltd. (d) Outcome: On 18 September 1979 the (a) Substance: a photocopy of a letter from sum of $5002 was awarded to the owner as A. and C. McColgan was received at this office the work was now completed by the new on 27 February 1979 concerning outstanding builder. maintenance items. The activities of the Housing Builders' (b) Date of Settlement: Unsettled. Registry Board prior to the introduction of the house builders' liability legislation were not (c) No arbitrator involved. witihn my control as the scheme it adminis­ (d) Outcome: a letter was forwarded to the tered was a voluntary scheme. owners Mr and Mrs A. C. McColgan on 13 March 1979 requesting further information from (Question No. 144) the owners. To date no reply has been re­ ceived (16-9-80). Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the (i) (a) Substance: a letter was received Minist.er for Minerals and Energy, for from the owner5 Mr and Mrs T. J. Le-Gry's the Minister for Local Government: complaining of outstanding maintenance items 1. Whether any complaints against Kenrich and sub-soil drainage. Homes Pty Ltd, Kenrich Homes Victoria Pty (b) Date of Settlement: 4 July 1977. A letter Ltd, or Howath Pty Ltd have been made to the received from the builder advising that all Building Inspector of the Shire of Eltham; if so items had now been completed to the owners -(a) by whom; (b) on what dates; and (c) satisfaction. with what results? (c) No arbitrator involved. 2. Whether the Shire of Eltham indicated (d) Outcome: As per 2 (b) above. that a partly completed dwelling at Lot 31 Montpelier Drive, Lower Plenty. would have to (ii) (a) Substance: a claim was lodged by be demolished as a result of unsatisfactory Mr and Mrs T. J. Christie on 1 March 1979. workmanship by Kenrich Homes Pty Ltd and Claim relates to the house being incompleted whether this requirement was subsequently as a result of the liquidation of the builder. withdrawn after the owner of the property (b) Date to Settlement: 22 March 1979. had sold the property to Howath Pty Ltd which Consent was given to the new builders to has the same directors as Kenrich Homes Pty complete the dwelling. Ltd and Kenrich Homes Victoria Pty Ltd; if (c) No arbitrator involved. so, whether he will ascertain whether any im­ propriety or breach of law was associated with (d) Outcome: 10 August 1979 the sum of the transaction? $7693.62 was forwarded to the owner as the work was now completed by the new builder. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Minerals and Energy) -The answer sup­ (iii) (a) Substance: 28 November 1978 a letter was received from Mr and Mrs M. G. plied by the Minister for Local Govern­ Knocke, requesting assistance. ment is: (b) Date to Settlement: 9 April 1979, owner 1. The building surveyor of the Shire of instructed to obtain quotations. Eltham, Mr W. J. Barber, has advised my department that complaints were made by/or 29 July 1979 a further claim was lodged by on behalf of Miss H. Adams and were directed the owner. against Kenrich Homes Pty Ltd, a building (c) No arbitrator involved. company which has undertaken to construct a dwelling for Miss Adams on Lot 31 Montpelier (d) Outcome: 11 June 1980 the sum of Drive, Lower Plenty and that no specific com­ $1000 was forwarded to owner as the work was plaints were made again Kenrich Homes Vic­ now completed by the new builder. toria Pty Ltd or Howath Homes Pty Ltd. (iv) (a) Substance: complaint lodged on 24 He further advises that his duties with the September 1979 by Mr and Mrs C. J. Elliott. Eltham Shire Council did not commence until Claim related to a leaking septic tank. May 1976 and therefore he has no knowledge 5594 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY of any complaints made by Miss Adams, prior September 1976. Miss Adams spOke to W. to that date; the former assistant building Barber-deputy building surveyor-regarding surveyor, Mr G. Newton is deceased, and the building problems she was having. Due to the files contain no records of discussions held presence of a dispute, Miss Adams was ad­ between him and Miss Adams. vised to require her solicitors to write to The information which the building surveyor council requesting an inspection of the property has given from council files indicates as and the results forwarded. follows: 12.10.76. Letter from McCracken & Mc­ "11.9.74. Miss H. Adams rang Shire Offices Cracken, solicitors (solicitors for Miss Adams) Re mortar being used. She was advised that to W. Barber, requesting an inspection of Lot building inspectors in field, and asked to con­ 31 Montpelier Drive, Lower Plenty, and a re­ tact the department next day. port concerning the problems found to be for­ warded to them. 12.9.74. Miss H. Adams rang building sur­ veyor's department and advised that new brick­ 27.10.76. Inspection made of property and layers on site had complained about the report forwarded to McCncken & McCracken strength of the mortar used by previous brick­ -At time of inspection, works had only pro­ layers. gressed to the ground slab sta,e with portion of the brick work erected. Site badly over­ 18.2.74. Building department rang Kenrich grown with grass and weeds. Homes Pty Ltd advising them of problem con­ cerning mortar. 18.11.76. Miss H. Adams wrote to Mr W. Barber and J. A. McDonald requesting specific 16.9.74. Uniform Building Regulations First information on works. Miss Adams advised Schedule (No. 042) sent by G. E. Newton verbally that written report given to her solici­ (assistant building surveyor) to Kenrich Homes tors on matter found on site. Pty Ltd requiring them to carry out the follow­ ing works: 2.2.77. Miss H. Adams rang shire offices and left message for W. Barber to ring her. Phone (i) Samples of mortar to be analysed and call returned. result forwarded to shire offices. Miss Adams requested that she be advised (ii) Provide proper sills and weatherproof up of the matters found inconsistent between the to timber frame. actual works and the approved plan. She was (iii) Provide proper bearing for steel lintels advised that as the matter was subject to above window walls. legal actions, and my views were not indepen­ (iv) Provide drainage to protect footings dent, her request could not be acceded to. from water penetration. Miss Adams requested that I (W. Barber) iust advise that the plan was wrong. She was told 17.9.74. Letter sent by G. E. Newton-assis­ that I could not. tant building surveyor to Miss H. Adams, advis­ ing of inspections so far carried out, and enclos­ Miss Adams was advised that the faults ing copy of notice served on builders. found in the building would have to be cor­ rected, prior to the works being able to pro­ 8.10.74. Letter received from P. L. Clarke ceed. (barrister and solicitor for Kenrich Homes Pty Ltd) advising that contract to build house for 21.7.77. Letter from McCracken & Mc­ Miss Adams had been determined. . Cracken to W. Barber advising that Supreme Court action between Miss H. Adams and Ken­ 7.11.74. Mortar samples taken by Sharp and rich Homes Pty Ltd listed for 11.8.77. Howells Pty Ltd, for testing. 28.7.77. W. Barber contacted McCracken & 18.12.74. Application by Kenrich Homes Pty McCracken advising that he was able to at­ Ltd to Building Regulations Committee for tend proceedings if required. A request for modification of clause 1310 of regulations. attendance not received." 17.1.75. Building Regulations Committee 2. This allegation was thoroughly investi­ wrote to building surveyor-Shire of Eltham­ gated by the former Ombudsman Sir John requesting comments on application for modi­ Oillon who concluded that the complaint could fication. not be established. As I have explained to the 17.3.75. Letter from G. E. Newton-assistant compJllinant, the situation has been examined building surveyor-to Building Regulations by my department in the light of the Ombuds­ Committee advising that as only one sample man's investigations and conclusions and there was suspect and the remainder appeared satis­ is no action which can be taken by me in the factory, that no objection offered to mortar matter. used. 4.4.75. Award received from Building Regu­ HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY lations Committee approving of mortar used (Question No. 146) and permitting brick work mortar in the build­ ing to remain as constructed. Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the The conflict between the owner and the Minister for Minerals and Energy for builder appears to have lapsed at this time, the Minister for Local Government: as no work was carried out on the project and 1. What is the-(a) total; and (b) annual no further contact was made with the shire amount of registration fees, which have been offices by either party until late 1976. (W. received by each approved guarantor pursuant Barber commenced duties May 1976). to the house builders' liability provisions of the 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5595

Local Government Act 1958, indicating in each 1974 until September 1975. At that time Mr case the amounts-(i) paid to insurers; (ii) Harvey was employed by a manufacturer of retained by the guarantor for administration building products. costs and other specified purposes; (iii) paid to Mr A. L. Ifould has been Chairman of the directors; (iv) transferred to reserves; and (v) Housing Builders' Registry Board since used in any other way? September 1975. Mr Ifould is a former National 2. What is the-(a) total; and (b) annual President and Victorian State President of the amount, paid in claims by each approved guar­ Housing Industry Association. antor pursuant to the house builders' liability 2. ( a) The members of the Housing Builders' provisions of the Local Government Act 1958, Registry Board are appointed by the Executive indicating in each case the percentage of re­ Committee of the Housing Builders' Association gistration fees for the same period? Ltd. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for (b) When the voluntary registration scheme Minerals and Energy) -The answer for house builders was introduced, an approach was made to the Government for nominees supplied by the Minister for Local to sit on committees to represent the public. Government is: Whilst no formal nomination was made it was The approved guarantor bodies are public suggested by the then Minister for Housing companies and as such are required to pre­ that Dame Marie Breen, who has been involved pare and submit annual returns to the Com­ in a great many community activities and was missioner for Corporate Affairs. These returns the President of the Citizens Advice Bureau in are available on request and additionally, I can Victoria, be approached. Dame Marie has re­ make arrangements for a copy of each return mained on the committee ever since. to be forwarded to the member for Oakleigh 3. So far as Housing Builders Association if he so desires. Ltd is aw~re, Mr Shelley has not participated Provided the approved guarantors continue in any of the board's deliberations concerning to be able to properly and competently perform matters in which he could have been involved their duties under the house builders' liability in the various capacities as stated in the ques­ provisions of the Local Government Act 1958, tion. However, if the member for Oakleigh has and as I am satisfied that this is the case a query regarding a particular case, I will en­ because I have received no evidence to the deavour to obtain the information he requests. contrary, I am not prepared to place on public record details of the financial activities of those HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY bodies beyond what is already ~vailable in the annual returns. .' (Question No. 148) Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the HOUSING BUILDERS REGISTRY Minister for Minerals .and Energy, for BOARD the Minister for Local Government: (Question No. 147) In respect of arrangements pursuant to the Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the house builders' liability provisions of the Local Minister for Minerals and Energy, for Government Act 1958 which he outlined on the Minister for Local Government: 17 October 1979 in response to question No. 91 asked in the Legislative Council and reported 1. What is the name of each person who has in Hansard at page 3385, what are-(a) the occupied the position of Chairman of the Hous­ methods and criteria used by the Master ing Builders Registry Board, indicating in each Builders' Housing Fund Ltd to determine the case-(a) the dates; and (b) his affiliations merits of cases where cash compensation is with any other building industry organizations concerned; (b) the functions of the specialist and any offices held currently or in the past? sub-committee of the Board of Management 2. How each member of the Housing Builders' of the Master Builders' Housing Fund Ltd Registry Board is selected, indicating in parti­ indicating the-(i) names; and (ii) method cular the basis for designation of Dame Marie of election or appointment of its members; Breen as "representing the public"? and (c) the names of members of the Board 3. What is the number of instances in which of Management of the Master Builders' Hous­ claims submitted to the Board have previously ing Fund Ltd and their affiliation and present involved board member Mr K. V. Shelley in his or past positions with other building industry capacity as building consultant or arbitrator, organizations? indicating in each case-(a) the owner; (b) the builder; (c) the manner and circumstances Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for of the appointment; (d) whether Mr Shelley Minerals and Energy) -The answer participated in the board's deliberations; and supplied by the Minister for Local (e) the outcome? Government is: Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for (a) I have been advised by Master Builders' Minerals and Energy) -The answer Housing Fund Ltd, that there is no set method or criteria used to determine the merits of supplied by the Minister for Local a case where cash compensation is concerned, Government is: because each case is dealt with on an individual 1. Mr N. T. Harvey was Chairman of the basis. However, I have been advised that all Housing Builders' Registry Board from October the known facts are obtained, then these 5596 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY are investigated and analysed together with In respect to the provisions of the Act the claim of the house purchaser, having which concern the relationship between builders regard to common practice and convention and approved guarantor bodies, so far as I within the housing section of the building in­ know no prosecutions have bee I) launched. dustry, the contract, and the plans and specifi­ Matters of this nature concern the approved cations for the project. guarantor bodies responsibilities and liabilities, (b) The functions of the Claims Committee and their relationship with persons and com­ are to examine all the relevant information panies recognized by them. Unless a builder available in each claim in detail, to seek either explains his actions to the satisfaction additional information as necessary and to of an approved guarantor body or complies recommend an appropriate course of action with directions of an approved guarantor body, to the Board of Management. that builder can be deregistered. The committee, which is appointed by the Board of Management, consists of: HOUSE BUILDERS AND HOUSING Maxwell Joseph O'Brien; William Robert INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS Fox; David Henry Murden; Warner Kenneth Bastian; Henry Robert Holdsworth; with ex­ (Question No. 150) 'lfficio-Graeme Bishop (Registrar); John Murray (Legal Officer) and Hector Trevana Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the O'Hare (Technical Officer). Minister for Minerals and Energy, for ( c) The Board of Management of Master the Minister for Local Government: Builders' Housing Fund Limited consists of: In respect of information about the House Maxwell Joseph O'Brien, Vice-President, Builders Association Ltd and the Housing Master Builders' Association of Victoria Industry Association, which the Minister gave (M.B.A.). on 23 October 1979 in response to question William Robert Fox, Member of M.B.A. No. 524 and .reported in Hansard at page 3621: 1. What is the name of each previous dir­ Donald Cockram, Past-President of M.B.A. ector of the Housing Builders Association Ltd Warner Kenneth Bastian, Insurance Execu- and, prior to the association's establishment, tive. of the Housing Builders' Registry Board, indi­ David Henry Murden, Executive Director of cating in each case the present and past affi­ M.B.A. liations and official positions held with other building industry organizations? Henry Robert Holdsworth, Past-President of M.B.A. 2. Whether any director of the Housing Builders Association Ltd is a present or past Joffre James Deviesseux, Member of M.B.A. councillor or director of the Victorian or the Digby Gordon Forbes, Ex-officio (Company National nivision of the Housing Industry Secretary) . Association? (Question No. 149) Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Min­ Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the erals and Energy)-The answer supplied Minister for Minerals and Energy, for by the Minister for Local Government the Minister for Local Government: is: The house builders' liability provisions of the In respect of information about prosecutions Local Government Act 1958 enable a scheme pursuant to the house builders' liability pro­ of industry self-regulation, backed by legis­ visions of the Local Government Act 1958 lative requirements. The activities of the Hous­ which he gave on 23 October 1979 in response ing Builders' Registry Board prior to the intro­ to question No. 694 and reported in Hansard duction of the legislative scheme are not a at page 3623 whether he will ascertain from matter of Government administration, so far each approved guarantor in each case the-( a) as my ministerial responsibility is concerned. date; (b) substance; and (c) outcome? 1. I have been advised by Housing Builders Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Association Ltd that: Minerals and Energy) -The answer Mr James Jewitt, a former director of Hous­ supplied by the Minister for Local ing Builders' Association Ltd who resigned in Government is: November 1978, was a building materials con­ tractor. Prosecutions under the house builders' liability provisions may be launched indepen­ 2. Yes. dently of the Local Government Department and independently of the approved guarantor HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY bodies. The provisions of the Act have been (Question No. 151) found by the honourable Mr Justice King to include the public's prima facie rights to Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the prosecute, particularly in respect to the pro­ Minister for Minerals and Energy, for visions of section 9188 (2). Municipalities the Minister for Local Government: are also empowered to prosecute for breaches of the Act. Therefore I am not in a position Whether companies registered, pursuant to to supply the information sought. the house builders' liability provisions of the 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5597

Local Government Act 1958, as Oregan (c) the award of Messrs King-Siem and Homes Pty Ltd and Oregan Nominees Pty Ltd Gallagher was dated 27 November 1978 and have some or all of the same directors as the outcome was in favour of the claimant. Oregan Custom Building Pty Ltd, which All costs had to be met by Housing Builders ceased to trade in February 1974; if so, what Association Ltd. are their names? Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Min­ HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY erals and Energy)-The answer supplied (Question No. 153) by the Minister for Local Government is: Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the The activities of builders prior to the intro­ Minister for Minerals and Energy, for duction of the house builders' liability provi­ the Minister for Local Government: sions of the Local Government Act 1958 were Whether the Federation Insurance Ltd is not within my control, as the scheme pre­ one of the consortium of forty underwriters viously in force was voluntary. providing insurance facilities to the Housing Builders Association Ltd pursuant to the HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY house builders' liability provisions of the Local Government Act 1958 which were referred to ARBITRATORS in the Housing Industry Association's news­ (Question No. 152) letter of August 1979; if so, whether participa­ tion by the Federation Insurance Ltd in this Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the underwriting scheme is part of a wider insur· Minister for Minerals and Energy, for ance arrangement which also includes the the Minister for Local Government: Housing Builders Association Limited's sponsor­ ing body, the Housing Industry Association? In respect of information about arbitrators appointed pursuant to the house builders' Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for liability provisions of the Local Government Minerals and Energy-The answer Act 1958, which the Minister gave on 23 Oct­ ober 1979 in response to question No. 537 and supplied by the Minister for Local Gov­ reported in Hansard at page 3621: ernment is: 1. What was the-(a) date; (b) owner's As previously advised in response to ques­ name; (c) builder's name; and (d) outcome tion No. 686, answered on 23 October 1979, of each arbitration in which the arbitrators page 3623, I consider the question of the named were involved? names of the insurance companies backing the 2. How each arbitrator was appointed and liabilities of the approved guarantor bodies by whom? to be confidential. I also consider all arrange­ ments made by the approved guarantor bodies Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Min­ with their insurers to be confidential. erals and Energy)-The answer supplied by the Minister for Local Government (Question No. 154) is: Mr MAT HEWS (Oakleigh) asked the The arbitrations referred to were conducted Minister for Minerals and Energy, for under the provisions of the Arbitration Act the Minister for Local Government: 1958, and each arbitrator was appointed pur­ In respect of the advisory committee estab­ suant to the provisions of that Act. lished by the former Minister to review the Housing Builders Association Ltd has pro­ house builder's liability provisions of the vided me on a confidential basis with the Local Government Act 1958, what were the­ details of the awards but has added that the (a) names and positions of the committee proceedings and outcome of an arbitration members; (b) dates when the committee was award is a matter between the parties con­ -(i) established; and (ii) discharged, indicat­ cerned and that no consent has been received ing the reason for the discharge; (c) dates from the other parties for the release of the of each committee meeting; and (d) dates and details. Furthermore, the determination of an subjects of each committee report? arbitrator is final and binding on the parties concerned. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for In these circumstances, I advise that­ Minerals and Energy-The answer (a) the award of Mr Baker was dated 20 supplied by the Minister for Local Gov­ January 1978 and that the outcome was in ernment is: favour of Housing Builders Association Ltd The committee was established and first which did not seek to have its costs recovered. met on March 6 1974. The cost of the arbitration was met by the claimant at the arbitrator's direction. The membership of the committee was then: (b) the award of Mr Bennetti was dated 9 Mr A. J. ElIwood, solicitor for the State ~vember 1977 and the outcome was in favour Savings Bank of Victoria. of the claimant. All costs had to be met by Mr D. Murden of the Master Builders' Asso­ Housing Builders Association Ltd. ciation. 5598 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Mr M. Pinnock of the Housing Industry Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Association. Minerals and Energy) -The answer Mr L. Cheffers, Chief Administrator and supplied by the Minister for Local Town Clerk of the City of Camberwell. Government is: Mr D. Lush, Guardian Royal Exchange In­ The executive committE'e of Housing Builders surance Group. Association Ltd are its directors. The names The committee met on several occasions are-- between March 1974 and November 1976. As Mr D. R. Dosseter a result of meetings substantial amendments Mr N. J. Bale were incorporated into the original Act by Mr A. C. Fuller virtue of Acts Nos. 8564 and 8958. Senator D. J. Hamer Mr I. T. Sherwen. (Question No. 155) In regard to the remuneration paid to these Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the gentlemen by Housing Builders Association Ltd, I reiterate the advice given in answer to Minister for Minerals and Energy, for question No. 146 that the approved guarantor the Minister for Local Government: bodies are public companies and are required In respect of the committee formed at the to submit annual returns under the Companies Minister's request by the Master Builders' Act and that I am not prepared to place on Housing Fund Ltd and the Housing Builders public record details of the financial activities Association Ltd to make submission and sug­ of those bodies beyond what is already avail­ gestions on the operation of the house builder's able in the annual returns. liability provisions of the Local Government Act 1958, when the committee was established HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY and what are the-( a) names and positions of the committee members; (b) dates on which (Question No. 158) the committee has met; and (c) dates and subjects of each committee submission? Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the Minister for Minerals and Energy, for Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for the Minister for Local Government: Minerals and Energy-The answer Whether the Minister will ascertain from supplied by the Minister for Local Gov­ each guarantor approved pursuant to the ernment is: house builders' liability provisions of the Local As I indicated in answer of Question No. Government Act 1958, the name of each person 688 recorded at page 3753 of Hansard on 24 who has bE-en charged pursuant to these pro­ October 1979, on the disbandment of the com­ visions, indicating in each case--( a) the nature mittee established by my predecessor to review of the offence; (b) the outcome; and (c) the house builders' liability legislation, I whether the offender is currently registered requested that the two approved guarantor either directly or indirectly with the guarantor'? bodies form a committee to make submissions from time to time on the legislation. I also Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for indicated in that answer that submissions Minerals and Energy) -The answer from this source will be considered, together supplied by the Minister for Local with any other submissions received. Government is: The membership of that committee and its meeting times are therefore of no concern to I refer the member for Oakleigh to my me. To date I have not received a submis­ answer to question No. 149 which deals with sion from that particular committee direct, this matter. but have received submissions from the representative bodies. The subject matter of HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY the submissions received is the house builders' CLAIMS liability provisions of the Local Government Act 1958. (Question No. 159) HOUSING BUILDERS ASSOCIATION Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the COMMITTEE Minister for Minerals and Energy for (Question No. 156) the Minister for Local Government:' In respect of the house builders' liability Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the provisions of the Local Government Act 1958, Minister for Minerals and Energy, for what is the number of claims in respect of W. & F, Constructions which the Master the Minister for Loc'al Government: Builders' Housing Fund Ltd-( a) has received; Pursuant to the house builders' liability pro­ and (b) expects to receive, indIcating in each visions of the Local Government Act 1958, case the-(i) owner's name; (H) date' (iii) what is the--(a) name; and (b) remuneration substance; and (iv) outcome? ' of each person who has served as a member of the Executive Committee of the Housing Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Builders Association Ltd? Minerals and Energy) -The answer 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5599

supplied by the Minister for Local Liability) Act 1973 or employees of per­ sons or bodies corporate any of whose Government is: obligations are so guaranteed or direc­ I have been advised by Master Builders' tors or members of or otherwise finan­ Housing Fund as follows: cially interested in bodies corporate any (a) One. of whose obligations are so guaranteed; (i) Miss C. Wallace claimant. and (b) one nominee of the council of the Mas­ (ii) Received 1.10.1979. ter Builders' Association of Victoria be­ (Hi) Claim under section 918K (1) (b). ing a recognized builder of the Master (iv) Information awaited from the owner Builders' Housing Fund Ltd or nomina­ for six months. claim paid on 26 ted representative of a recognized November 1980. builder. (b) No other. Housing Builders Association Ltd has an appeals tribunal consisting of three members HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY who are drawn from a panel of five. Mem­ bers of the panel, save Mr R. Burkitt, are or (Question No. 160) have been members or office bearers of the Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the Housing Industry Association, and are: Minister for Minerals and Energy, for Mr A. Moore Mr R. Burkitt the Minister for Local Government: Mr J. Durell In respect of the house builders' liability Mr G. Nixon provisions of the Local Government Act 1958: Mr J. Jewitt 1. Whether either guarantor appointed pur­ 3. Only one appeal has been received by suant to the Act has adopted rules which make Master Builders' Housing Fund Ltd. The appel­ registration of builders conditional on their lant was already a member of Master Builders' membership of a further organization; if so, Association of Victoria before the appeal was what is the name of the further organization made. which builders are required to join in order to Since October 1974 the Appeals Tribunal of obtain registration in each case? Housing Builders Association Ltd has heard 2. Whether either guarantor has appointed 198 appeals. The reasons for the refusal of the an appeals tribunal pursuant to the registra­ association to grant recognition are various and tion requirements set out in its rules; if so, are matters of concern between the builder what is the name of any tribunal member and the association. The association has ad­ who is also connected in any way with the vised that to date no builder has been refused further body which builders are required to recognition solely on the grounds that he was join in order to obtain registration, indicating not a member of Housing Industry Association. the nature of the connection in each case? 3. How many appeals against refusal of reg­ (Question No. 161) istration have been submitted to each appeals tribunal, indicating in each case-Ca) the Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the grounds; (b) the outcome; and (c) any in­ Minister for Minerals and Energy, for stance in which successful appellants were still refused registration or subsequently de­ the Minister for Local Government: registered on grounds of failure to qualify for Whether he or his predecessor has received membership of a further organization? representations for extension of the house LIEBERMAN builders' liability provisions of the Local Gov­ Mr (Minister for ernment Act 1958 to cover renovations; if so, Minerals and Energy) -The answer sup­ what was the-Ca) source; (b) date; (c) sub­ plied by the Minister for Local Govern­ stance; and (d) Government response in each ment is: case? l. Yes. The further organization in respect Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for to the Master Builders' Housing Fund Ltd is the Master Builders' Association of Victoria; Minerals and Energy) -The answer sup­ The further organization in respect to the plied by the Minister for Local Govern­ Housing Builders Association Ltd is the Hous­ ment is: ing Industry Association. Yes, representations have been made to the 2. Yes. The approved guarantor bodies have Government suggesting that the house builders' appointed appeals tribunals (or committees). liability provisions of the Local Government Master Builders' Housing Fund Ltd has ad­ Act 1958 be extended to cover renovations. vised me that its rules provide for an appeals Suggestions that the legislation be extended committee consisting of: to cover renovations have been received from (a) two nominees of the Australian Institute time to time since 1977 from a number of of Building (incorporated by Royal municipalities, the Australian Institute of Build­ Charter) not being persons any of ing Surveyors, Victorian Chapter the Housing whose obligations are guaranteed under Industry Association and the Traders Exchange the Local Government (House Builders' Limited. 5600 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

The suggestions were generally broad in their Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for nature in that no specific detail was supplied, save for the submission from the Housing In­ Minerals and Energy)-The answer sup­ dustry Association. The Housing Industry plied by the Minister for Local Govern­ Association's proposal was examined in detail ment is: but rejected at this stage for a number of I am advised by Housing Builders Associa­ reasons including the following: tion Ltd that its view is that the determination 1. Defining "additions" and "renovations" of financial standing cannot be ascertained by would pose very great difficulties. One sug­ the application of set criteria. The association gested definition of "works costing not less has available to it professional accounting than $2000 and which require a building per­ advice which is used in assessing financial mit under the Uniform Building Regulations" standing. Therefore each case is treated on its was considered simply unworkable. Such a merits. definition would include work which is not commonly carried out by house builders and HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY would not include other work commonly (Question No. 163) undertaken by house builders but not requiring Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the a permit. Minister for Minerals and Energy, for 2. The present scheme starts the period of statutory indemnity running from the issue the Minister for Local Government: of the Certificate of Occupancy. In respect of In respect of the house builders' liability some works of the nature of additions and provisions of the Local Government Act 1958: renovations, such a certificate would be neither 1. Whether Mr A. C. Fuller is a director of necessary nor obtainable. Consequently there the Housing Builders Association Ltd and would have to be provision for some other act whether he was also a director of a building or circumstance from which the indemnity company called Sterling Homes which sub­ period would run. Various options were con­ sequently changed its name to First Levcam sidered but each option was considered un­ Pty Ltd? workable in all circumstances. Additionally any 2. Whether Sterling Homes has been the sub­ attempt to add provisions of this sort to the ject of complaints pursuant to the Act, and existing legislation would unreasonably com­ what are the names of the other persons who plicate what is already a complex set of pro­ have had a beneficial interest in the firm under visions. either name? 3. It was thought that the imposition of such Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for a cover would unreasonably increase the cost of constructing alterations and additions to Minerals and Energy)-The answer sup­ existing dwelling houses. plied by the Minister for Local Govern­ 4. A suggested exclusion of liability, for con­ ment is: sequential loss or damage to an existing build­ 1. The responsibilities of the approved ing caused by an addition or alteration, was guarantor bodies under the terms of the legis­ not favoured. lation include the recognition of builders. I am 5. It was suggested that there should be a not in a position to direct that any particular prohibition on the sale of a dwelling house on builder be recognized or deregistered. which works of the nature of additions and In respect to the directorship of particular alterations had been carried out within twelve companies recognized by the approved guaran­ months of completion of the works, but this it tor bodies, whilst they will provide information seemed, might operate harshly against some to me on request I do not believe the home handymen. information sought by the member for Oakleigh Notwithstanding the rejection, at this stage, is of concern to my Ministerial responsibilities I am keeping the whole question of renovations under the provisions of the Local Government and additions under review. Act 1958. 2. If the member for Oakleigh is prepared to refer to a particular case or cases on which he is seeking information relating to the com­ HOUSING BUILDERS ASSOCIATION panies. I will endeavour to obtain the LID information sought in each case. (Question No. 162) Mr A. C. Fuller is a director of Housing Builders Association Ltd. Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the Minister for Minerals and Energy, for HOUSING BUILDERS ASSOCIATION the Minister for Local Government: COMMITTEE In respect of the house builders' liability (Question No. 164) provisions of the Local Government Act 1958, Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the what are the criteria used by the Housing Builders Association Limited pursuant to the Minister and Energy, for the Minister association's rule 3 (a) (vi) to determine­ for Local Government: (a) if a member is no longer of good financial In respect of arrangements pursuant to the standing; and (b) if an applicant for member­ house builders' liability provisions of the Local ship is not of good financial standing? Government Act 1958: 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5601

1. What was the date of establishment of Re-elected at that date were: D. R. Dossetor the Executive Committee of the Housing and I. T. Sherwen. Builders Association Ltd to which reference is At the seventh annual general meeting of made in the guarantor's accounts for the period the Housing Builders Association Ltd, held ending 31 March 1979, and what are the on 30 June 1980 two directors retired, namely: committee's functions? D. J. Hamer and N. J. Bale. 2. What is the name of each member who Re-elected at that date were: D. J. Hamer has served on the committee, indicating in and N. J. Bale. each case-( a) the date of appointment; (b) Mr A. Ifould resigned from the executive the date of stepping down, if any; and (c) the during 1974 to assume a position on the Hous­ relevant qualifications or experience? ing Builders' Registry Board. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Minerals and Energy) -The answer HOUSING BUILDERS ASSOCIATION supplied by the M'inister for Local LTD Government is: (Question No. 165) l. The executive committee was established Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the at the time the company was formed in accordance with Housing Builders Association Minister for Minerals and Energy, for Ltd Articles of Association and its function is the Minister for Local Government: that of a board of directors. Whether the Housing Builders Association 2. The committee has consisted of the direc­ submitted to him for approval its recent in­ tors of Housing Builders Association Ltd for crease in housing insurance rates pursuant to the time being. I have been advised by Housing the provisions of the house builders' liability Builders Association Ltd that- provisions of the Local Government Act 1958 from $33 to $50, and, if so, on what grounds At the first annual general meeting of the the increase was justified given the decision of Housing Builders Association Ltd, held the Master BuHders' Housing Fund to retain the on 24 November 1974 all directors retired, $33 rate? namely: Mr N. J. Bale; D. R. Dossetor; A. C. Fuller; D. J. Hamer and J. H. Jewitt. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Re-elected directors at that date were: N. J. Minerals and Energy) -The answer Bale; D. R. Dossetor; A. C. Fuller; D. J. Hamer; supplied by the Minister for Local and J. H. Jewitt. Government is: At the second annual general meeting of the (a) The member for Oakleigh should note Housing Builders Association Ltd, held on that the amount described by him is not an 14 August 1975 two directors retired, namely: insurance rate, but it is an amount required N. J. Bale and J. H. Jewitt. by the approved guarantor body from a builder Re-elected directors at that date were N. J. so that the approved indemnity may be pro­ Bale and J. H. Jewitt. vided. The amount reflects the amount of At the third annual general meeting of the premium required by the under-writing con­ Housing Builders Association Ltd, held on sortium who provide the necessary contract as 2 August 1976 two directors retired, namely: required under the Act. D. R. Dossetor and A. C. Fuller. (b) The decision of the Master Builders' Re-elected directors at that date were: D. R. Housing Fund has no relevance to the submis­ Dossetor and A. C. Fuller. sion of the Housing Builders Association Ltd. At the fourth annual general meeting of the Housing Builders Association Ltd, held HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY on 8 August 1977 one director retired, namely: DISPUTES D. J. Hamer. (Question No. 166) Re-elected at that date was D. J. Hamer. At the fifth annual general meeting of the Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the Housing Builders Association Ltd, held on Minister for Minerals and Energy, for 16 August 1978 two directors retired, namely: the Minister for Local Government: N. J. Bale and J. H. Jewitt. In respect of disputes pursuant to the house Re-elected at that date were N. J. Bale and builders' liability provisions of the Local J. H. Jewitt. Government Act 1958: It should be noted that Mr I. T. Sherwen was 1. Whether the Housing Builders Association appointed a member of the executive on 4 Ltd follows a practice of providing claimants December 1978 upon receipt of Mr Jewitt's with a list of three recommended arbitrators; resignation, under Company Article 8. if so, what are the criteria on which its recom­ At the sixth annual general meeting of the mendations are based? Housing Builders Association Ltd, held on 2. What is the-(a) number; and (b) per­ 6 August 1979 two directors retired namely: centage of arbitrators, whose names have been D. R. Dossetor and I. T. Sherwen. recommended by the Housing Builders Associa- 5602 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY tion Ltd and who are not connected in any way which past and present office-bearers, directors with-( a) the Housing Builders Association or staff members of the Master Builders' Ltd itself; (b) the Housing Industry Associa­ Housing Fund Ltd are members of the Vic­ tion; (c) another guarantor approved pursu ant torian Chapter of the Institute of Arbitrators to the Act; or (d) the Master Builders' Australia, indicating in each case-( a) the Association? position held in each organization; (b) dates; 3. What is the name of each arbitrator who and (c) any buildin~ industry arbitrators in­ has been recommended by the Housing volving builders regIstered with the Master Builders Association Ltd pursuant to the house Builders' Housing Fund Ltd in which they have builders' liability provisions of the Local been involved? Government Act 1958, indicating in each case­ Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for (a) aIJ building industry affiliations; and (b) the number of occasions on which a recom­ Minerals and Energy) -The answer mendation has been made? supplied by the Minister for Local Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Government is: Minerals and Energy) -The answer I am not prepared to seek the information supplied by the. Minister for Local requested, because I can see no justification Government is: for doing so. l. Until recently, where a decision on a claim was disputed, the Housing Builders Association MASTER BUILDERS' HOUSING FUND Ltd followed the practice of providing DIRECTOR claimants with a list of three arbitrators ex­ perienced in the field. However, Housing (Question No. 168) Builders Association did not preclude the claimant from nominating any other person Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the experienced in building and possessing a Minister for Minerals and Energy, for knowledge of the house builders' liability pro­ the Minister for Local Government: visions of the Local Government Act 1958. In respect of the house builders' liability The present position is that the claimant is provisions of the Local Government Act 1958, given the opportunity of nominating an whether Mr R. Besford, a director of the arbitrator. If the person determined by the Master Builders' Housing Fund Ltd, is also a claimant is associated with the Housing Master Builders' Association of Victoria Industry Association or Housin~ Builders arbitrator; if so-( a) since what date he has Association Ltd, the claimant is advIsed of that acted in that capacity; (b) whether the association. Master Builders' Housing Fund Ltd has 2. None. I am advised that all would have received claims in relation to transactions in had association with one of the organizations which Mr Besford has acted as an arbitrator, mentioned, particularly with the Housing indicating whether any such claims have been Industry Association or the Master Builders rejected, and in each case whether Mr Besford participated in the decision; and (c) whether Association. the Local Government Department or the 3. Housing Builders Association Ltd do not Consumer Affairs Council has received repre­ recommend arbitrators. However names were sentations involving Mr Besford in his capacity submitted to the claimant and were described as an arbitrator, indicating in each case-(i) as persons experienced in arbitration. These the name of the person involved; and (ii) the persons were usually: substance? Baker, S. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Grambau, L. R. Gallagher, B. Minerals and Energy) -The answer However, it is not practicable to ascertain supplied by the Minister for Local the number of occasions the list of arbitrators Government is: was forwarded to claimants as to do so Mr R. Besford resigned as a director of the accurately would involve perusal of each file Master Builders' Housing Fund Ltd on 15 held by the association. Septemher 1977. If the member for Oaklei~h has any particu­ lar case or cases on whIch he is seeking information, I will endeavour to ascertain the HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY information sought. ARBITRATIONS MASTER BUILDERS' HOUSING FUND (Question No. 169) STAFF Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the (Question No. 167) Minister for Minerals and Energy, for Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the the Minister for Local Government: Minister for Minerals and Energy, for In respect of the information about arbitra­ tions pursuant to the house builders' liability the Minister for Local Government: provisIons of the Local Government Act 1958, In respect of the house builders' liability given on 23 October 1979 in response to provisions of the Loc~l Government Act 1958, question No. 537, whether there are any 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5603 instances in which rectification has been identified in the 1978 and 1979 Fund accounts carried out or compensation paid by the Hous­ as portion of insurance claim admitted i!1 ing Builders Association Ltd in respect of a prior year recovered from Insurance Council claim previously arbitrated in the association's of Australia, what was-( a) the recovery pro­ favour; if so, what are the details in each cess; (b) the source of funds; (c) the under­ case? writing arrangement with the Insurance Coun­ cil of Australia; and (d) the relationship of Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for the agreement with insurance requirements Minerals and Energy) -The answer pursuant to the Act? supplied by the Minister for Local Government is: Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Minerals and Energy) -The answer Where a claimant seeks arbitration pursuant to the house builders' liability provisions of supplied by the Minister for Local the Local Government Act 1958 on a par­ Government is: ticular set of circumstances and that matter As previously advised, I consider individual is dealt with by an arbitrator, then the deci­ items in the approved guarantor bodies sion is final and binding on all parties. There­ accounts and their insurance arrangements as fore, the answer is, No. However, a house confidential. purchaser is not precluded from making addi­ tional claims under the provisions of the Act which would be assessed by the approved HOUSING BUILDERS ASSOCIATION guarantor body. STAFF (Question No. 172) HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the (Question No. 170) Minister for Minerals and Energy, for Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the the Minister for Local Government: Minister for Minerals and Energy, for In respect of the house builders' liability the Minister for Local Government: provisions of the Local Government Act 1958, 1. Whether the collapse of Palm dale Insur­ which past and present office bearers, directors ance Ltd has affected any pOlicies or under­ or staff members of the Housing Builders writing or re-insurance arrangements made by Association Ltd are members of the Victorian guarantors appointed pursuant to the house Chapter of the Institute of Arbitrators Aus­ builders' liability provisions of the Local Gov­ tralia, indicating in each case-(a) the posi­ ernment Act 1958; if so, what was the name tion held in each organization; (b) dates; and of the guarantor in each instance? (c) any building industry arbitrations involv­ ing builders re$istered with the Housing 2. Whether new insurance arrangements Builders AssociatIon Ltd in which they have pursuant to the house builders' liability pro­ been involved? visions of the Local Government Act 1958 have been entered into by either guarantor Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for as a result of the collapse of Palmdale Insur­ ance Ltd; if so-( a) in what respect these Minerals and Energy) -The answer arrangements differ from those previously in supplied by the Minister for Local force; (b) what are the companies involved; Government is: and (c) what is the effect on the premium I am not prepared to seek the information rate for builders insuring houses pursuant to requested, because I can see no justification the Act? for doing so. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Minerals and Energy) -The answer HOUSING BUILDERS ASSOCIATION supplied by the Minister for Local LTD Government is: (Question No. 173) As advised in response to question No. 153, I consider the insurance arrangements of the Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the approved guarantor bodies to be confidential. Minister for Minerals and Energy, for However I am satisfied that the insurance the Minister for Local Government: cover is adequate. In respect of Rule 11 adopted by the Hous­ (Question No. 171) ing Builders Association Ltd pursuant to the house builders' liability provisions of the Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the Local Government Act 1958 and approved by Minister for Minerals and Energy, for the former Minister for Local Government: the Minister for Local Government: l. Whether the HOUSing Builders Associa­ tion Ltd has served Carter Homes (Vie.) Pty In respect of the house builders' liability Ltd a rectification order pursuant to the com­ provisions of the Local Government Act 1958 pany's Rule 7 regarding a dwelling constructed and receipts of the Master Builders' Housing by the company at Balnarring and whether Fund Ltd as a guarantor pursuant to the Act, Carter Homes has invoked Rule 11? 5604 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

2. Whether in the event of the Housing 2. The firm involved was Colonial Construc­ Builders Association Ltd losing the dispute tions. between themselves and Carter Homes, they 3. The arbitrator was Mr Don Senior who is will admit a claim for compensation by the affiliated with the Housing Industry Associa­ owners of the home at Balnarring and guaran­ tion. The parties involved were fully aware of tee payment of such claim in full? the affiliation. 3. What is the name of the arbitrator in the 4. The case was found in favour of Colonial dispute, indicating who made the appoint­ Constructions. ment? 5. The information required by the member for Oakleigh relates to matters which are out­ Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for side of my Ministerial responsibility. Minerals and Energy) -The answer supplied by the Minister for Local Gov­ BUILDING REGULATIONS ernment is: COMMITTEE 1. and 3. Yes, a notice pursuant to Rule 7 (Question No. 175) was served on Carter Homes (Vic.) Pty Ltd but the builder was unable to comply because Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the the owner refused him access to the property. Minister for Minerals and Energy, for Yes, a notice of dispute pursuant to Rule 11 the Minister for Local Government: was issued but this notice was subsequently What is the name of each person who has withdrawn. served as a member of the Building Regula­ tions Committee since 1970, indicating in each 2. I am not in a position to answer specula­ case-(a) all building industry affiliations; and tive questions. (b) any instance in which the member has acted as an arbitrator-(i) in building industry HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY disputes, generally; or (ii) pursuant to the (Question No. 174) house builders' liability provisIons of the Local Government Act 1958? Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Minister for Minerals and Energy, for Minerals and Energy) -The answer the Minister for Local Government: supplied by the Minister for Local Gov­ In respect of Rule 11 adopted by the Housing ernment is: Builders Association Ltd pursuant to the house builders' liability provisions of the Local Gov­ It is assumed that building industry affilia­ ernment Act 1958 and approved by the former tions means membership of trade or profession­ al organizations associated specifically with Minister for Local Government: building matters. 1. How often this provision has been in­ The names of each person who has served voked? as a member of the Building Regulations Com­ 2. What are the names of the builders in­ mittee since 1970 and their building industry volved in the arbitration and whether they are affiliations insofar as the Local Government still registered? Department is aware, are as follows: 3. What are the names and industry affilia­ (a) Alan Douglas Whalley (deceased) tions of the arbitrators involved? EbenE~zer William Giles (deceased) 4. What was the outcome of ~ach arbitration Patrick Edward Shelly-no building industry and whether the Housing Builders Association affilia tions. Ltd subsequently admitted the claim from the home owner for the matters covered by the Robert Alec Eggleston, Life Fellow of the arbitration? Royal Australian Institute of Architects. 5. What are the names of all persons whom William Piper Brown, Fellow of the Insti­ the Victorian President of the Housing Industry tution of Engineers, Australia. Association may appoint but has not appointed Keith Gladwyn Hooker, Fellow of the Aus­ to date to arbitrate under Rule 11, indicating tralian Institute of Builders, member of the the criteria used for their selection as possible Scaffolding Regulations Committee, life mem­ arbitrators under this rule, and their industry ber of the Master Builders Association of Vic­ affiliations? toria, member of the Housing Industry Asso­ ciation. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for John Frederick McDonnelI, formerly Chief Minerals and Energy) -The answer Engineer of the Department of Health. supplied by the Minister for Local Gov­ Paul Engberg Olsen, formerly Chief Engin­ ernment is: eer of the Department of Health. 1. I have been advised by Housing Builders Henry Geoffrey Bottoms (deceased) form­ Association Ltd that, as far as can be ascer­ erly Chief Architect of the Public Works De­ tained, there has been only one case where partment. the rights of builders as provided by Rule 11 Donald Charles Bradbury, formerly Chief have been exercised to finality. Architect of the Public Works Department. 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5605

David Trezise Robertson, Building Surveyor registered builders have-( a) been initiated; of the City of Melbourne. (b) succeeded; (c) failed; and (d) been with­ drawn? Mervyn Victor Cook, registered architect, formerly representative of the Director­ 3. Whether arbitration proceedings under a General, Public Works Department. contract between owner and builder, the house builders' liability provisions of the Local Gov­ John Joseph Peyton, member of the Institu­ ernment Act 1958 or an approved guarantor's tion of Enginers, Australia, partner in the rules absolve the approved guarantor from firm of Messrs John Connell and Associates. enforcing any or all of its rules against a Desmond Percival Matthews, Diploma of builder? Architecture, formerly representative of the Director-General, Public Works Department. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Reginal Ernest Pader' Fellow of the Royal Minerals and Energy)-The answer sup­ Australian Institute 0 Architects. plied by the Minister for Local Govern­ James Kenneth Thompson, registered archi­ ment is: tect, formerly representative of the Director­ 1. Yes. The rules of the approved guarantor General, Public Works Department. bodies provide that where a builder does not Allan Gordon Robertson, Fellow of the Insti­ comply with a direction of the approved guar­ tution of Engineers, Australia, immediate past antor body. that builder can be de-registered at Chairman of the Building Regulations Com­ the discretion of the approved guarantor body mittee. for failure to observe an instruction. Geoffrey Clayton Rule, Associate of the It is not practicable to relate the reasons for Royal Australian Institute of Architects, and de-registration to the particular circumstances the current representative of the Director­ outlined in the question. General, Public Works Department. 2. The house builders' liability provisions of Timothy John Langley, Fellow of the Insti­ the Local Government Act 1958 makes the tution of Engineers, Australia. builder, in the first instance, responsible to the house purchaser in so far as defects in a Raymond A. Morgan, Dip. Mech. Eng., M.I.E. dwelling-house are concerned. The approved (Aust.), Post Dip. Indust. Management, cur­ guarantor bodies ensure that the purchaser is rently Director of Building Control and Chair­ protected if a builder fails to satisfy a house­ man of the Building Regulation Committee. purchasers legitimate claim. (b) The Local Government Department does not keep any records or have access to In accordance with usual commercial prac­ the private information which would enable tice, the guarantor has the capacity to recover me to advise you the extent to which any from the person whose liabilities he has under­ past or present member of the Building Regu­ taken by virtue of acceptance to guarantee lations Committee has acted as an arbitrator performance. in building industry disputes or in respect of 3. Arbitration between an owner and a disputes pursuant to the house builders' lia­ builder under the terms of a contract deter­ bility provisions of the Local Government Act mine the obligations of each party under the 1958. terms of the contract. Arbitration under the house builders' liability provisions of the Act settles differences between HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY a house purchaser and the approved guarantor (Question No. 177) body. Arbitration under the rules of the approved Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the guarantor body settle differences between a Minister for Minerals and Energy, for builder and the approved guarantor body. the Minister for Local Government: Having regard to the circumstances under In respect of the house builders' liability pro­ which these arbitrations m~y take place, I am visions of the Local Government Act 1958: a.t a loss to understand thiS part of the ques­ 1. Whether any guarantor approved pursuant tton. I do however advise that the applic~tiot1 to the Act has adopted rules providing for de­ of the rules of the approved guarantor bodlc::. registration of builders on grounds of malprac­ is a matter at the discretion of those bodies. tices, defective workmanship or breach of statu­ tory requirements such as the Uniform Building HOUSING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION Regulations; if so, how many builders were ARBITRATOR de-registered by such a guarantor, indicating in respect of each de-registration-(a) the (Question No. 180) builder's name; (b) the date; (c) the grounds; and (d) whether the builder has subsequently Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the regained registration either in his own name or Minister for Minerals and Energ;v for in some other capacity? the Minister for Local Government: 2. Whether any guarantor has also adopted In respect of information about arbitrators, rules requiring recovering of ,the cost of recti­ pursuant to the house builders' liability provi­ fication claims from the responsible builders; sions of the Local Government Act 1958 which if so, how many recovery actions against de- the Minister gave on 17 October 1979 in 5606 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY response to question No. 91, and reported in graph 52 of its Articles of Association; the Hansard at page 3385, what were the dates on committees are the Housing Builders' Registry which Mr Ken Shelley commenced and con­ Board which examines applications and claims cluded periods of service on-(a) the Housing and the Appeals Tribunal, which hears appeals Industry Association panel of arbitrators; and by builders against decisions of the Housing (b) the Institute of Arbitrators, Australia Builders Registry Board concerning the active list of Grade Arbitrators? relationship between builders and Housing Builders Association Ltd, save those matters Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for covered by Rule 11 of the association's rules. Minerals and Energy) -The answer sup­ plied by the Minister for Local Govern­ The Housing Builders' Registry Board con­ sists of Mr A. Ifould, Mr N. Bird, Mr W. ment is: Young, Mr K. Morris. Dame Marie Breen and The ~uestion does not relate to the house Mr P. Chiavaroli. The only previous member builders liability provisions of the Local was Mr K. Shelley who retired on 30 June Government Act 1958 and I do not therefore 1980 and was replaced by Mr Chiavaroli. propose to seek the information requested by the honourable member. The Appeals Tribunal is drawn from the following panel: Messrs A. Moore, Mr R. HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY Burkitt, Mr J. Durell, Mr G. Nixon and Mr GUARANTORS J. Jewitt. (Question No. 181) (Question No. 183) Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the Minister for Minerals and Energy, for Minister for Minerals and Energy, for the Minister for Local Government: the Minister for Local Government: In respect of the house builders' liability pro­ In respect of the house builders' liability visions of the Local Government Act 1958, what provisions of the Local Government Act 1958. income each approved guarantor has received what are the names of persons previously from-( a) contribution; and (b) each other holding positions with the Housing Builders source in each year since the inception of the Registry Board who transferred to positions scheme? with the Housing Builders Association Ltd. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for in the case of directors at the date of incor­ Minerals and Energy) -The answer sup­ poration. and in the case of others at the date of commencement of operations. on 15 plied by the Minister for Local Govern­ October 1974, indicating in each case-(a) ment is: the position prior to and subsequent to the As previously advised, the approved guar­ change; and (b) any affiliation with the antor bodies are private companies and as such Housing Industry Association. either as are required to submit annual reports under the employee. director or in some other capacity? Companies Act 1961. Copies of the annual reports may be inspected or alternatively, if Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for the member for Oakleigh so desires, I will Minerals and Energy)-The answer make arrangements for past copies to be for­ supplied by the Minister for Local warded to him. I do not intend to provide infor­ Government is: mation additional to that which is contained in the annual reports. The activities of persons who hold or have held directorships of the Housing Builders HOUSING BUILDERS ASSOCIATION Association Ltd prior to the approval of that LID company for the purposes of the Act. have no relevance to the house builders' liability pro­ (Question No. 182) visions of the Act. The directors were accepted by the Government at the time Housing Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the Builders Association Ltd was approved as Minister for Minerals and Energy, for an approved guarantor body by the Minister the Minister for Local Government: for Local Government in accordance with the In respect of the house builders' liability legislation and regulations. provisions of the Local Government Act 1958, on how many occasions the Housing Builders (Question No. 184) Association Ltd has appointed sub-committees pursuant to paragraph 52 of its Articles of Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the Association, indicating the purpose and mem­ Minister for Minerals and Energy, for bership in each case? the Minister for Local Government: Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for In respect of the house builders' liability Minerals and Energy)-The answer provisions of the Local Government Act 1958. whether the Housing Builders Association Ltd supplied by the Minister for Local was lent $22 700 by the Housing Industry Government is: Association on 14 October 1974; if so, whether There are two committees appointed by the the loan was pursuant to the Housing Builders Housing Builders Association Ltd under para- Association Ltd assuming any liabilities in- 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5607 curred previously by the Housing Builders' 2. No. Registry Board or for any other purpose 3. I am not aware of what the member for associated with the winding-up of the board? Oakleigh means by the question asked. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Minerals and Energy)-The answer HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY 5upplied by the Minister for Local CLAIMS Government is: (Question No. 191) The amount of $22 700 as indicated in the Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the balance sheet of Housing Builders Association Minister for Minerals and Energy, for Ltd as at 31 March 1975 represented monies loaned to the Housing Builders' Association the Minister for Local Government: Ltd by the Housing Industry Association to Pursuant to the house builders' liability pro­ assist the initial setting up of House Builders visions of the Local Government Act 1958: Association Ltd. All monies loaned have since 1. What was the date on which Aufco Con­ been repaid and at this time there are no structions Pty Ltd became registered as a loans outstanding from Housing Industry' builder with the Master Builders' Housing Fund Association. Ltd, indicating the name of each person who The answer to each aspect of the second has subsequently held office as a director of part of the question is: No. the company? 2. How many complaints against Aufco Con­ HOUSING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION structions Pty Ltd have been lodged with the DIRECTOR Master Builders' Housing Fund Ltd, indicating any instances in which a complaint was sub­ (Question No. 188) sequently registered as a claim and the outcome in each case? Mr MAT HEWS (Oakleigh) asked the 3. What was the substance of the complaint Minister for Minerals and Energy, for and claim submitted against Aufco Construc­ the Minister for Local Government: tions Pty Ltd by C. G. & B. L. Fischer, indicat­ In respect of Mr K. V. Shelley, listed as a ing whether any payment has been made sub­ director of the Housing Industry Association sequent to the Small Claims Tribunal awarding in the answer to question No. 524 given on $678 to the Fischers and this award being over­ 23 October 1979 recorded on page 3621 of turned in the Supreme Court? Hansard: 4. Whether Selmare Pty Ltd has been regis­ 1. Whether Mr Shelley holds, or has tered as a builder; if so-(a) on what date; previously held, the additional positions of­ and (b) what are the names of the directions? (a) builder registered with the Housing Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Builders Association Ltd; (b) member of the Minerals and Energy) -The answer Housing Builders' Registry Board; (c) foun­ dation member of the Institute of Arbitrators, supplied by the Minister for Local Australia; and (d) building consultant, indi­ Government is: cating the commencement and finishing date 1. Aufco Constructions Pty Ltd was. recog­ in each case? nised by Master Builders' Housing Fund Ltd 2. Whether the Minister will consult with on 13 March, 1975. the Attorney-General to determine whether 2. Five complaints have been lodged in re­ there is any conflict of interest involved which gard to Aufco Constructions, two of which would prevent Mr Shelley from serving as became claims. One claim was rejected be­ an arbitrator pursuant to the house builders' cause a contract did not exist with the builder liability provisions of the Local Government Aufco Constructions, the other involved C. G. Act 1958? and B. L. Fischer. 3. Whether dny action has been taken at any 3. C. G. and B. L. Fischer's claim concerned time concerning Mr Shelley's arbitrations; if so, a number of minor items estimated to cost what are the-Ca) names of the parties; (b) $180. There has been no payment to C. G. and dates; (c) outcomes; and whether Mr Shelley B. L. Fischer subsequent to and consequent being listed with the Institute of Arbitrators, upon the Supreme Court action. Australia as a practising arbitrator grade one is contrary to any agreement reached? 4. Selmar Pty Ltd has not received recogni­ tion by Master Builders' Housing Fund Ltd or Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Housing Builders Association Ltd. Minerals and Energy)-The answer supplied by the Minister for Local STATEWIDE BUILDING SOCIETY Government is: (Question No. 192) 1. (a) Yes. Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the (b) Yes. Minister for Police and Emergency (c) and (d) These matters are not of Services: concern to the house builders' liability pro­ Whether any investigation has been carried visions of the Local Government Act 1958. out into the Statewide Building Society, or 5608 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY persons associated with the society; if so-(a) 4. The advice of the Director of Technical what were the dates of commencement and Education was passed to Treasury through conclusion of the investigation; (b) what was normal channels. the substance of the report; and (c) what action was subsequently taken? 5. 8·4 per cent. 6. Yes. Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police and Emergency Services)-The answer BOORT HIGH SCHOOL is: (Question No. 210) As a result of a complaint lodged on 24 June 1977, an investigation was conducted by the Mr FORDHAM (Footscray) asked the Fraud Squad into certain allegations against Assistant Minister of Education, for the senior executives of the Statewide Building Society. The investigation concluded on 9 Minister of Education: October 1979. The police report on the inves­ Whether the Minister has received represen­ tigation indicated that the allegations were tations from the Boort High School regarding unsubstantiated. the disastrous effect on the school's education­ However, the report also indicated that an al programme if the projected cut in the employee of the society may have received school's staffing establishment is implemented; secret commissions as an inducement to ap­ if so, whether the Minister will give considera­ prove loan applications. The employee and tion to the special staffing needs of this school? three other persons were subsequently charged with conspiracy and have been committed for Mr LACY (Minister of Educational trial in the Melbourne County Court. Services)-The answer is: My colleague, the Minister of Education ad­ vised the honourable member by letter dated TECHNICAL AND FURTHER 27 February 1981 that he had received repre­ EDUCATION sentations from time to time from Boort High (Question No. 203) School and from various other small high schools concerning their staffing needs. The Mr FORDHAM (Footscray) asked the needs of the smaller schools are recognized by the application of formulae which take into Assistant Minister of Education, for the account the actual number of class divisions Minister of Education: for various subjects required at each level, In relation to recurrent expenditure on tech­ rather than by the application of the general nical and further education in Victoria: formula based on total school enrolments 1. Why T AFE colleges were not advised of which is used in setting the staffing establish­ their 1978-79 budget allocation until early ments of larger schools. November 1978? For 1981, the formulae applied to the small 2. Whether the rate of increase of funds schools has been slightly liberalized for senior provided to colleges in 1978-79 was less than forms. that requested and determined by them as necessary to meet their needs? FEDERATION OF GREEK PARENTS 3. Whether some colleges were required to AND GUARDIANS ASSOCIATION retrench staff in order to contain expenditure within their budget allocation? (Question No. 211) 4. Whether the Director of Technical Educa­ Mr FORDHAM (Footscray) asked the tion was excluded from Treasury and depart­ Assistant Minister of Education, for the mental discussions that determined the alloca­ tion of funds for T AFE? Minister of Education: 5. What was the rate of increase of enrol­ Whether the Minister has received a request ments in technical and further education for from the Federation of Greek Parents and the year 1978-79? Guardians' Association in Government Schools in Victoria for a grant to assist with the ex­ 6. Whether additional funds were made avail­ penses of undertaking the federation's impor­ able in the 1978-79 year to colleges able to tant work; if so, what assistance is to be given demonstrate the need for extra assistance to to the federation during the current financial meet their responsibilities to students? year? Mr LACY (Minister of Educational Services)-The answer is: Mr LACY (Minister of Educational Services)-The answer is: My colleague the Minister of Education ad­ vised the honourable member by letter dated My colleague, the Minister of Education ad­ 27 February 1981 as follows: vlsed the honourable member by letter dated 1. As is normal, advice cannot be given until 27 February 1981 that following consideration the Budget has been passed by Parliament. of a request from the Federation of Greek Parents and Guardians Association in Govern­ 2. Yes. ment Schools in Victoria. $14450 was pro­ 3. No. vided from Commonwealth funds under the 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5609

State Grants (Schools Assistance) Act 1979 Suitable adjustments were made to the staff­ which provided funds for the 1980 calendar ing in line with the recommendations received. year.

PORTLAND PRIMARY SCHOOL WHITE HILLS PRIMARY SCHOOL (Question No. 225) (Question No. 221) Mr FORDHAM (Footscray) asked the Mr FORDHAM (Footscray) asked the Assistant Minister of Education, for the Assistant Minister of Education, for the Minister of Education: Minister of Education: In relation to the White Hills Primary In relation to the Portland Primary School, School: Palmer Street, Portland: 1. What is the present enrolment? 1. What is the present school enrolment? 2. What is the expected enrolment in 1981, 2. What is the expected enrolment in 1982, and 1983? 1981-82? 3. When a new site was purchased to facili­ tate the relocation of the school? 3. When it is expected that-(a) Stage 2; and (b) Stage 3, of the school's rebuilding 4. When it is now expected that the school programme will be completed, and what has will be relocated and what is the reason for been the reason for the delay in these works? the delay? Mr LACY (Minister of Educational Mr LACY (Minister of Educational Services) -The answer is: Services) -The answer is: My colleague, the Minister of Education My colleague the Minister of Education advised the honourable member by letter advised the honourable member by letter dated 27 February 1981 as follows: dated 5 March 1981 as follows: 1. 1980 enrolment-51l. 1. 1980 enrolment-242. 2. Expected enrolments: 2. Expected enrolments: 1981-494 1981-260. 1982-510. 1982-280. 3. (a) Stage 2 which is completion of the main building is expected to go to tender 1983-300. during the 1980-81 financial year. 3. The site for the relocation of the school (b) Stage 3 which comprises upgrading of was purchased in September 1977. the infant building is on the Geelong regions major works plan but no priority has yet . 4. Although the project has a reasonably been allocated by the Priorities Review Com­ hIgh place on the Priorities Review Commit­ mittee. I am therefore not able to say when tee's ~uiIding Priority list, it is difficult to this stage will be commenced and completed. de~er!DlO'e v.:hen the project will proceed. The PrIOrIty ReVIew Committee will review the list later on this year, and the projects priority COLAC TECHNICAL SCHOOL may be altered. (Question No. 223) However, the project will not proceed during the 1980-81 financial year. Mr FORDHAM (Footscray) asked the Assistant Minister of Education, for the Minister of Education: TRENTHAM PRIMARY SCHOOL What is the reason for the delay in the (Question No. 240) appointment of a library teacher and two maths/science teachers to acknowledged vacan­ ~r FORD!I~M (Footscray) asked the cies at the Colac Technical School, in order ASSIstant MInIster of Education for the to ensure that there is no disruption to the Minister of Education: ' school's balanced educational programme? In respect of Trentham Primary School: Mr LACY (Minister of Educational Services) -The answer is: . 1. What. is the current enrolment and what IS the prOjected enrolment for 1981 and 1982? My colleague the Minister of Education advised the honourable member by letter dated 2. What building works were undertaken at 27 February 1981 that he asked the Regional the school in 1979 and what works are pro­ Director and the Assistant Director of Per­ posed for 1980, 1981 and 1982, respectively? sonnel (School Research) and a Personnel Research Officer to examine the staffing situa­ Mr LACY (Minister of Educational tion at Colac Technical School. Services) -The answer is: Session 1981-193 5610 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

My colleague the Minister of Education FIRE SAFETY REPORT advised the honourable member by letter dated (Question No. 307) 6 March 1981 as follows: 1. The enrolment for 1980 was 87, the cur· Mr SIMMONDS (Reservoir) asked the rent enrolment is 85 and the estimated enrol­ Min1ster for Police and Emergency ment for 1982 is 79. Services: 2. No building works were undertaken in In respect of the Parliamentary Liberal Party 1979. A replacement school has been on the report into fire safety of 1974: Regional Priority Committee's list for a num­ 1. What action has been taken or is proposed ber of years. The priority list will be reviewed to deal with deficiencies in the field of fire again at the end of the current financial year safety as disclosed in the report? and it is not possible to say at this stage 2. Whether any steps have been taken to whether any works will be carried out during implement the recommendation that a com­ 1981-82 or 1982-83. mittee be established to thoroughly investigate existing regulations concerning high-rise build­ ings with a view to providing adequate fire HEATERS IN SCHOOLS prevention and sup~ression controls; if so, (Question No. 266) whether such committee has dealt with the specific matters suggested for its consideration Mr GA VIN (Coburg) asked the Assist­ and detailed in the report, indicating which matters it has dealt with, when and with' what ant Minister of Education: result? Whether the Government is attempting to 3. Whether the Minister can assure emp­ convert oil-fired heaters installed in schools loyees that they are not at risk working in and what action has been taken to date? such buildings in view of the criticism of high­ Mr LACY (Minister of Educational rise buildings contained in the report? Services)-The answer is: Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police and Emergency Services)-The answer I, in my capacity as the Minister of Educa­ tional Services, advised the honourable member is: by letter dated 3 March 1981 that through the One of the main recommendations of the Public Works Department research has been Committee of the Parliamentary Liberal Party undertaken which shows the cost savings gained which examined fire safety was that a full­ by converting schools from oil-fired heating time "Technical Committee" of five members to gas. Efforts are now being made to provide should be appointed to inquire into, and where funding to enable a conversion programme to necessary, amend existing building regulations, be implemented. and to propose new regulations with regard to fire safety and equipment, use of inflammable materials, and fire prevention and suppression, PENTRIDGE PRISON EDUCATION in buildings. CENTRE The appointment of the proposed "Technical (Question No, 300) Committee" was not proceeded with because of action which was put in train to appoint a Mr GA VIN (Coburg) asked the Assist­ Building and Development Approvals Com­ mittee (BADAC) to examine, amongst other ant Minister of Education: matters, the subject of fire prevention and suppression in new buildings, and to re­ 1. When the members of staff at Pentridge constitute the Building Regulations Committee Prison Education Centre can expect the supply which, it was envisaged, would also have an of furniture for the relocatable classroom in input in the area of fire safety standards. Central Prison? As a result of recommendations made by 2. Since the relocatable classroom was de­ the BAnAC Committee, a Bill, which con­ livered twelve months ago, what is the reason solidates and updates a number of separate for the delay in the delivery of the furniture? provisions in respect of fire safety and pre­ vention in new buildings, was introduced dur­ Mr LACY (Minister of Educational ing the 1980 Spring Session. Services)-The answer is: The Building Regulations Committee pre­ I, in my capacity as the Minister of Educa­ viously referred to, is working on the adap­ 'tation of the Australian Model Uniform Build­ tional Services, advised the honourable member ing Code and embodying the building require­ by letter dated 3 March 1981 that all ordered ments of the Health Commission, the Depart­ furniture was delivered to the school early in ment of Labour and Industry, the Liquor Con­ May 1980. Discussions with the principal indi­ trol Commission, into one set of consolidated cate that the school has no further requirement Building Regulations as proposed by BADAe at the present time. and approved by the Government. 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5611

In addition to these measures, which prim­ Mr KENNETT (Minister of Hous­ arily relate to new buildings, a committee ing)-The answer is: was established in March 1980 to examine, in particular, the adequacy or otherwise of The information sought is not available present arrangements for fire prevention and from Housing Commission records. suppression in existing buildings. This committee is chaired by .the Secretary to the Ministry for Police and Emergency Ser­ UNSOLVED CRIMES vices and includes representatives from the (Question No. 335) Victorian Trades Hall Council, the Country Fire Authority, the MetropoUtan Fire Brigades Mr EDMUNDS (Ascot Vale) asked the Board, .the Local Government Department, the Minister for Police and Emergency Ser­ Institution of Engineers Australia, the Vic­ torian Chapter of the Royal Australian Insti­ vices: tute of Architects, the Insurance Council of How many major crimes, including Australia and the Melbourne City Council. homicides, remain unsolved for the period 1 The committee's terms of reference are: January 1973 to date? "To examine and to report to the Minister Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police for Police and Emergency Services upon: and Emergency Services)-The answer 1. The need to improve fire prevention, fire is: protection and fire fighting facilities in exist­ The following statistics are available for ing buildings generally and, in particular, in the period from I January 1973 to 11 October buildings within the City of Melbourne. 1980: 2. The desirability of granting increased powers to fire brigade officers in inspecting Number not buildings for fire hazards and in requiring the Name of crime cleared taking of remedial action; and Homicide 79 3. The need for, and the desirability of, action to amalgamate, consolidate and up-date Serious assaults 3010 Acts and regulations relating to fire preven­ Robbery 5267 tion, fire protection and fire fighting facilities." Rape 582 The committee is presently drafting its re­ Burglary 259532 port, which will have particular regard to the Theft 328639 need to improve fire prevention, fire protection and fire fighting facilities in existing buildings, Motor vehicle theft 74490 and will recommend means of achieving im­ Obtaining by deception (fraud) , provements in those areas. It is anticipated offences against trust, and that the committee's report will be available offences concerned with cur­ shortly. rency 14847 I can assure the honourable member that action is being taken to ensure that fire safety standards in buildings, including high-rise pre­ ARMED HOLD-UPS mises, are satisfactory, and present no abnor­ mal hazard to their occupants. Certainly, (Question No. 336) statistics indicate that the risk of suffering death or injury is far greater in the home than Mr EDMUNDS (Ascot Vale) asked in high-rise buildings. Nevertheless, it is appre­ the Minister for Police and Emergency ciated that there is always a potential for Services: disaster in the high-rise situation, and action will continue to be ,taken to ensure that the In respect of armed hold-ups reported to risk factor in this area is minimized. the Victoria Police Force during ,this year to date: 1. At what locations these offences were HOUSING COMMISSION HOMES, committed and what amount of money was GEELONG involved in each case? . (Question No. 327) 2. What amounts were recovered in each Mr TREZISE (Geelong North) asked case? the Minister of Housing: 3. How many person have been charged with Whether an increasing percentage of fami­ armed hold-ups? lies are vacating Housing Commission homes in Geelong as a result of transfer to other Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police States for employment reasons; if so, what and Emergency Services)-The answer is the approximate percentage increase? is: 5612 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

1. and 2. Details of armed robberies reported to the Victoria Police Force during the period 1 January 1980 to 30 September 1980 are: Location Amount stolen Amount recovered $ $ Pascoe Vale 2369.55 Frankston .. 640.00 Deer Park .. 2889.00 Gardenvale .. 200.00 Ascot Vale ... Nil Ashburton " Nil (Drugs to the vlaue of $532.00 stolen) West Heidelberg Nil Trentham .. 2865.60 Fitzroy Nil Frankston " 50.00 North Coburg .. Nil (Drugs to the vlaue of $150.00 stolen) Dandenong 1 140.00 Sandringham 284.00 East Melbourne 4CO.00 Mill Park .. 1 854.00 Pascoe Vale Nil (Drugs to the value of $300.00 stolen) Reservoir 12.00 Elwood .. Nil (Drugs to the value of $2000 stolen) Prahran 868.00 Brunswick 6458.00 West Preston 20.00 Prahran Nil Glen Waverley Nil (Drugs to the value of (Drugs to the value $744 stolen) of $300 recovered) Doncaster " Nil (Drugs to the value of (Drugs to the value $1400 stolen) of $1400 recovered) Collingwood 4522.00 Richmond .. Nil Melbourne 20.00 Canterbury .. 683.00 Thombury .. 9809.00 300.00 Chelsea 250.00 Belmont " 150.00 MurrayviIle Collingwood 700.00 Essendon " 460.00 Doncaster .. 3192.00 Fawkner 53942.16 West Preston 3454.05 North Sunshine 250.00 Hampton Nil Seddon 500.00 Coburg Nil (Drugs to the value of $250.00 stolen) Collingwood 1000.00 Preston 20.00 Preston 2087.70 Camberwell 4438.00 North Melbourne 75.00 Footscray " 4000.00 East Doncaster 1000.00 Dandenong 73.00 Ormond 3287.00 Chadstone .. 223.50 North Altona t 100.00 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5613

Location Amount stolen Amount recovered

$ $ Malvern 290 916.90 6000.00 St Kilda 4000.00 Melbourne Nil Northcote .. 4060.00 Tullamarine 1500.00 Brooklyn .. 1240.00 Yarraville .. . . 20.00 Tullamarine Freeway Nil Ouyen 400.00 Mentone 100.00 Collingwood 52.00 Northcote .. Nil North Altona 250.00 Middle Park 12.00 Bendigo Nil Kensington .. Nil Hawthorn .. Nil (Drugs to the value of $80.00 stolen) Springvale Nil Sandringham 50.00 Dandenong .. 89.00 Black Rock 328.84 Clifton Hill 1400.00 Bundoora .. 3340.00 Bentleigh .. Nil Doveton 555.72 Ascot Vale 821.41 Elsternwick 400.00 Glen Waverley 60.00 Ashwood .. 6452.00 Ascot Vale 491.00 Coburg .. 3000.00 Newmarket Saleyards Nil Cheltenham 200.00 Seaford 476.00 South Melbourne 20000.00 Fitzroy Gardens 22.00 Brunswick 7500.00 Middle Park 1090.00 Rowville .. 424.00 East Gee\ong 2000.00 Richmond 7537.00 7000.00 Enfield 90.00 Chadstone 100.00 North Croydon 418.00 Dandenong 1 348.28 Thomastown 550.00 Maidstone 1048.00 North Melbourne 150.00 North Melbourne 200.00 Carnegie .. .. Nil (Drugs to the value of $425 .00 stolen) Essendon .. 5000.00 Dandenong 500.00 .500.00 Belmont " 90.00 Cheltenham Nil Northcote " 200.00 Frankston .. 426.00 Belmont .. 14S.28 West Brunswick 3932.86 South Yarra 45.00 Footscray .. 50.00 Keilor Park 748.00 Tottenham 2900.00 South Melbourne 20.00 5614 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Location Amount stolen Amount recovered

$ $ Flemington .. S 382.00 Surrey Hills 300.00 Corio .. 3.50 Broadmeadows 750.00 Chelsea 125.00 Torquay Nil Coburg " Nil Lower Plenty 250.00 Glen Waverley 700.00 Melbourne .. 6500.00 Highett Railway Station Nil Moorabbin 1200.00 South Yarra 700.00 Frankston .. 6.00 Cheltenham 100.00 Goornong .. 100.00 Clayton .. 2000.00 North Balwyn 658.00 East Geelong Nil Spotswood 80.00 Collingwood 1200.00 Somerville 115.00 Albert Park 7.00 Noble Park 69.34 Thornbury .. 200.00 North Fitzroy 200.00 Hawthorn 1840.00 Kingsville 500.00 Caulfield 294.00 Fitzroy 15079.00 Coburg 3004.20 Trafalgar .. 200.00 Deer Park .. Nil Melbourne 3981.00 Koo-wee-rup 241.00 Chadstone 100.00 Boolarra .. Nil Wantirna " Nil Altona .. 6.00 Albert Park 3822.00 Collingwood .. Nil (Cigarettes to the value of $520.00 stolen) North Melbourne .. 400.00 East Richmond Nil St Kilda 60.00 Preston 406.00 Ballarat 284.00 Morwell 13 000.00 Fitzroy North 60.00 Brunswick .. 3652.00 (Also jewelery to the value of $126609.00 stolen) Ormond .. Nil Noble Park .. Nil (Drugs to the value of $30.00 stolen) Warragul .. 3392.00 Armadale I 381.00 East Oakleigh 400.00 North Sunshine 591.00 Moorabbin 200.00 South Yarra 2800.00 West Preston I 360.00 South Melbourne 3000.00 South Melbourne 210.00 Braybrook ., 600.00 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5615

Location Amount stolen Amount recovered

$ $ South Melbourne 65.00 CarIton 425.00 Richmond 48.00 Airport West 6849.00 Richmond 1440.00 Mt Waverley 200.00 St Kilda 15.00 Kew 62.00 Thomastown 150.00 Melbourne 323.00 Alphington 1284.00 Gardiner 304.00 Newport 1 815.00 Sunshine Nil Burwood Nil Brunswick J 216.00 Middle Park 25.00 North Melbourne 157.00 Malvern .. .. Nil (Drugs to the value of $2 000.00 stolen) Craigieburn 5928.00 Brunswick 2441.00 Footscray 300.00 Oakleigh Nil Malvern 60.00 St Kilda 67.00 Malvern 376.00 Brunswick Nil Hawthorn .. 100.00 Coldstream .. 70.00 Sunshine Nil Glenhuntly 472.00 Elsternwick 180.00 Albion Nil Flemington .. 200.00 Ascot Vale 40.00 Clifton Hill Nil Richmond 200.00 EItham 485.00 Williamstown Nil Reservoir ...... Nil (Drugs to the value of $100.00 stolen) Sandown Railway Station 200.00 South Melbourne 400.00 Auburn 40916.00 Kinglake West 200.00 Mentone 607.00 Elsternwick 25.00 Richmond 700.00 Footscray 3900.00 Anglesea 1277.00 Geelong 6000.00 Malvern Nil Westgarth 330.00 South Yarra Nil Carhon Not known South Yarra 60.00 Preston 270.00 51.70 Preston 5.00 Dandenong 6000.00 Fitzroy 6140.00 Richmond 13 485.00 Mildura Nil Sunshine 2.50 Preston Market 1396.00 5616 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Location Amount stolen Amount recovered

$ $ Tullamarine 280.00 Hampton Park 480.00 North Fitzroy 295.00 East Thornbury 1048.00 West Footscray 40.00 Richmond 480.00 West Heidelberg 260.00 Fitzroy 50.00 West Footscray 250.00 North Balwyn 3728.00 Coburg Nil Northcote .. 160.00 Dandenong Nil Malvern 6250.00 Coburg 200.00 Melbourne 85000.00 Prahran .. 22000.00 South Oakleigh 4000.00 West Heidelberg 65.00 Sebastopol .. Nil Seaford Nil Box Hill Railway Station 80.00 Mount Waverley Nil Fitzroy 40.00 Melbourne 2500.00 Werribee .. 99.58 Noble Park 180.00 Maidstone 400.00 Nunawading 140.00 Kensington .. 1 527.00 Melbourne 1115.20 Knoxfield .. 1461.00 Glenroy 3770.00 St Kilda 5225.00 Bendigo Nil Fitzroy .. Nil Albert Park 7756.00 Brighton .. 70.00 Watsonia .. 2321.00 Northcote .. 100.00 Carlton .. 750.00 North Fitzroy Nil Fitzroy 630.00 630.00 Fitzroy Nil Auburn 9576.00 Mulgrave " 700.00 Ashwood 120.00 Mount Waverley 105.00 Eaglehawk " 500.00 Highett 400.00 Heathmont 47.00 Middle Park Nil Maribyrnong 400.00 Northcote .. 10 326.47 2500.00 Maribyrnong 8.00 Fitzroy 200.00 Dandenong Nil Middle Park 450.00 Port Melbourne 100.00 Albert Park Nil Sandringham 200.00 St Albans .. 8000.00 Footscray " Nil Ballarat .. 200.00 Moonee Ponds Nil Kensington .. 244.00 Box Hill Nil 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5617

Location Amount stolen Amount recovered

$ $ Kensington .. 300.00 Kew 25000.00 St Albans 25.00 Northcote .. Nil Elwood 185.00 Windsor 23.00 Cheltenham Nil St Kilda 500.00 Essendon .. 170.00 Darling Railway Station 98.00 Edithvale .. 100.00 Nth Fitzroy 2000.00 Kew 300.00 Maribyrnong 400.00 Preston 65.00 Melbourne 15.00 Lower Level City Square 3.00 Melbourne 3.00 Prahran Nil North Melbourne 200.00 Merri Nil Elwood 1111.00 Oak Park .. 200.00 West Melbourne 130.00 Sandringham 600.00 Ormond 2600.00 Kensington .. 115.00 Jacana Nil Kensington .. Nil Coburg 50.00 Hawthorn .. 700.00 Glen Waverley 300.00 Keon Park 800.00 Blackburn North 50.00 Wodonga .. 100.00 Brunswick 858.20 Flemington .. 3591.18 3591.18 Hawthorn .. 60.00 Toorak 1150.00 West Heidelberg 3041.04 Glen Waverley 3000.00 Elsternwick 3686.00 Albert Park 1000.00 Hawthorn .. Nil South Yarra 150000.00 Mount Eliza 7720.00 Richmond Nil Reservoir .. 260.00 Fitzroy Gardens 10.00 Richmond Nil Frankston .. 4800.00 East Doncaster 1 744.00 Elwood 120.00 Elsternwick 850.00 Elsternwick Nil Sunshine 8700.00 Fitzroy 15.00 Toorak 200.00 Fitzroy 100.00 Thomastown 96.99 Nunawading 200.00 Brighton Nil Box Hill 370.00 St Kilda 26.00 26.00 Ripponlea 150.00 Greensborough 200.00 Niddrie 1 861.00 5618 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Location Amount stolen Amount recovered S s Nobel Park 1 530.00 Spotswood 400.00 Elwood .• 4231.00 Carnegie .. 4572.00 St Kilda .. 380.30 North Fitzroy 135.00 Doncaster .. 508.00 Epping .. Nil Camberwell 200.00 Port Melbourne 3105.00 Parkdale .. Nil St Kilda .. 180.00 Malvern .. Nil East Burwood 400.00 Thornbury .. 300.00 Toorak .. 200.00 Blackburn North 24053.00 293.50 Fairfield 7423.09 Oaldeigh .. 100.00 East St Kilda 600.00 Fitzroy 1500.00 Brighton .. 1000.00 Melton .. Nil (Cigarettes to the value of 5463 000.00 stolen) ParkviUe .. 4771.00 Armadale .. 8000.00 South Yarra 3.00 lvanhoe .. 1 399.00 North Caulfield .. 350.00 lewell Railway Station 30.00 Bentleigh .. 400.00 Brighton .. .. Nil (Drugs to the value of 540.00 stolen) Ripponlea .. 500.00 Richmond 15.00 Coburg .. 723.00 Sandringham 370.00 Malvern 55.00 Toorak .. 30.00 Flemington .. 260.00 Ormond 13 145.00 Melbourne 1400.00 Balwyn .. 1500.00 Rosanna .. 280.00 Collingwood 317.00 Footscray .. 50.00 Darebin .. 1300.00 Sandringham 500.00 Coburg .. 255.00 Doncaster .. Nil Gardenvale .. 300.00 Dandenong 90.00 Mount EHza 4419.00 North Melbourne .. 65.00

3. 122 persons were charged with armed 1. What total amount of money is presently robbery during the period 1 January 1980 to offered by the Government in rewards for 30 September 1980. information regarding the activities, appre­ REWARDS PAID BY GOVERNMENT hension and conviction of criminals, indicating (Question No. 339) the details of each reward and crime? Mr EDMUNDS (As cot Vale) asked the 2. What amount has been paid by the Gov­ Minister for Police and Emergency ernment in rewards in each year from 1970 Services: to 1979 and in this year to date? 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5619

Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police and Emergency Services)-The answer is:

Crime in respect Amount 0/ In/ormatioln or name 0/ victim in respect 0/ which reward reward Date gazetted 0/ which reward offered offered offered

$ 11 October, 1963 Norman Victor Jones Murder 10000 11 October, 1963 .. Irene Alice Kiddle Murder 10000 Vincenzo Angilletta Murder 24 January, 1964 .. Vincent MUratore Murder ..::} 10000 { Domenico Demarte Assault 17 February, 1965 .. Dominic Ganino Murder 10000 23 July, 1965 · . Gordon William Small " Murder 10000 Garry Charles Heywood .. 16 March, 1966 " { Abina Margaret Madill .. :: }Murder 10000 17 October, 1966 .. John Norman Duncan .. .. Murder 5000 5 June, 1968 Ivan Ragnar Michelson .. Murder 2000 20 August, 1968 Linda Jane Stilwell Missing person 5000 13 November, 1968 ·Information concerning armed robberies Armed robbery 2000 19 March, 1970 • ·Information concerning school fires Arson 2000 17 May, 1972 Desmond St. Bernard Costello Murder 2000 2 August, 1972 " Fires within City of Knox .. Arson 2000 Nicolas Kolovrat .. 19 July, 1973 .. { Laurance Richard Chamings :: } Murder 10000 19 July, 1973 " Bertie Driscoll ...... Murder 10000 8 August, 1973 Gwendoline Rose Brooks Murder 10000 15 August, 1975 · . Margaret Elizabeth ElIiott " Murder .. 10000 Douglas McDonald Barr 14 November, 1975 · . { Helen Victoria Barr .. : : } Missing persons 5000 22 January, 1976 .. Eloise Anne Worledge .. . . Missing person 10000 30 January, 1976 Terrence James Floyd Missing person 5000 13 April, 1976 Noel Richard McCoy Murder 10000 3 May, 1977 John Ronald Gill Murder 50000 3 May, 1977 James Joseph Kelly Murder 50000 3 May, 1977 .. Nicola Mercuri .. .. Murder 50000 Suzanne Joy Armstrong 3 May, 1977 .. { Susan Jan Bartlett :: } Murder 50000 11 April, 1978 · . Mary Anne Fagan .. Murder 50000 Paul Pace .. 11 April, 1978 · . Keith Hyman .. 50000 { Robert Wartman JMurder 28 June, 1978 .. June Elsie Thompson .. Murder 50000 28 June, 1978 .. Denise Gail McGregor Murder 50000 23 November, 1978 .. Florence Edna Handley Murder 50000 16 August, 1979 Victor Frederick Allard Murder 50000 10 December, 1979 Margaret Anne Clayton Murder 50000 4 June, 1980 Roger Anthony Wilson Suspected Mruder 50000 23 July, 1980 Maria Theresa lames Murder 50000 12 September, 1980 Thomas Jeffrey Cooper " . . . . Murder .. .. 50000 27 October, 1980 Information concerning abduction and assault Abduction and assault 30000 of young boys 10 December, 1980 .. Barbara Enen Dawson .. Murder 50000 catherine Linda Headland 16 December, 1980 .. Bertha Miller . . . . 50000 { Ann Maria Sargent .. JMUrder

Total 980 000

• Standina reward on all armed robberies excludin, armed robbery of any bank or Totalizator Agency Board Branch or aaency. A separate offer of reward is current for such mformation furnished in these instances . •• Standing reward conc:ernina all school fires. 5620 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

2. In 1966, a reward of $10000 was paid 1977 312 for information leading to the recapture of escaped prisoners Ronald Ryan and Peter 1978 235 Walker. 1979 318 In 1973, a reward of $2000 was paid for 1980 (to 8.11.80) 245 information concerning school fires. Total 4014 RAPE (Question No. 342) 3. Copies of The Statistical Review of Crime Mr EDMUNDS (Ascot Vale) asked the are forwarded annually to Government Ministers and to permanent heads of appro­ Minister for Police and Emergency priate Government departments. Services: 4. The Police Department is represented on 1. What police statistics are available a Rape Study Committee which was established regarding the crime of rape or alleged rape in by the Department of the Premier and which Victoria? meets bi-monthly. One of the committee's terms of refence is to make recommendations 2. How many reported rapes of all categories on public education measures which would have been investigated in the past twelve reduce the incidence of rape and other sexual months, and since statistics have been kept on assaults. The committee reports to the Premier. this crime? 5. The Rape Study Committee has made a 3. What are the statistical details provided number of recommendations and these are to the Government of investigations into the currently under consideration. crime of rape? 4. What departmental committees or other POLICE ACADEMY WAITING LIST Government authorities have been requested to provide information or investigate this (Question No. 344) crime and its prevention? Mr EDMUNDS (Ascot Vale) asked the 5. What recommendation the Government Minister for Police and Emergency has received regarding reducing the incidence of this crime in the community? Services: How many male and female persons, respec­ Mr THOMPSON {Minister for Police tively, are on the waiting list for entrance to and Emergency Services) -The answer the Police Academy, and how many persons is: are awaiting entrance to .the police cadets? 1. The annual police publication entitled Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Polfce "The Statistical Review of Crime" contains and Emergency Services) -The answer statistical information in relation to rape, is: attempted rape and accessory to the offence of rape. (i) At 15 September 1980, the number of persons tentatively accepted for appointment 2. Police statistics in relation to rape are to the Victoria Police Force and awaiting entry not readily available for the years before 1959 to the Police Academy were: and were not compiled in 1966 and 1967. Male 127 Details of other years are as follows: Female ~ Number of rapes (ii) There are no persons who have been of all categories accepted for appointment as police cadets who Year investigated have not been so appointed. 1959 63 1960 97 CRIME STATISTICS 1961 114 (Question No. 347) 1962 130 Mr EDMUNDS (Ascot Vale) asked the 1963 154 Minister for Police and Emergency Ser­ 1964 134 vices: 1965 136 What are the respective crime statistics in 1968 158 each recorded category for the cities of Foots­ 1969 146 cray, Sunshine and Essendon for each of the 1970 172 years 1978-79, 1979-80 and 1980-81 to date? 1971 216 Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police 1972 237 and Emergency Services)-The answer 1973 264 is: 1974 266 Crime statistics are kept on a calendar year basis rather than in financial year form. Figures 1975 276 given below are for the years 1978, 1979 and 1976 341 1980 (to 15.11.80). 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5621

Number oJ cases reported Footscray Sunshine Essendon Nature oJ Crime 1978 1979 1980 1978 1979 1980 1978 1979 1980 Homicide 1 2 2 2 6 1 1 1 1 Serious Assault .. 196 199 254 125 167 129 211 175 140 Robbery 80 61 50 42 13 31 23 35 21 Rape .. 4 14 12 7 6 4 4 5 1 Burglary 1240 1146 1331 1396 995 1101 1152 1238 1331 Theft .. 1329 1380 1367 1730 1920 1692 1290 1524 1359 Theft of Motor Vehicles .. 419 433 413 443 371 278 269 429 295 Theft by Deception 147 169 167 100 144 332 55 69 36 Other Offences .. 523 481 437 489 638 406 435 384 317 Totals 3939 3885 4033 4334 4260 3974 3440 3860 3501

FIREARM LICENCES and how many applications for registration are pending in each category? (Question No. 350) 2. How many of these private agents are Mr EDMUNDS (Ascot Vale) asked licensed to carry firearms (hand guns)? the Minister for Police and Emergency 3. What review is made of the suitability Services: of these agents to continue to be licensed to carry firearms? 1. How many persons, excluding private agents, are licensed to carry hand guns in Vic­ Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police toria? and Emergency Services)--The answer 2. How many persons, excluding private is: agents, are licensed to carry rifles or shotguns and other weapons? Numb~r 0/ Number 0/ applications 3. How many persons are licensed firearm licence for licences collectors in Victoria? Category holders pending Process Servers 700 36 Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police Inquiry Agents 462 32 and Emergency Services) -The answer Commercial Agents .. 91 3 Commercial Sub-agents 124 7 is: Guard Agents .. 592 42 Watchmen .. 3186 166 The information requested is not readily available in the form specified as figures are 5155 286 not kept for the number of private agents who are licensed to carry firearms. 2. This information is not readily available 1. and 2. As at 7 October 1980, the number as statistics of the number of pistol licences of firearms licences and permits on issue in issued to private agents are not kept Victoria were: separately. However, the general policy of the Chief Commissioner of Police is to limit Pistol licences 14584 the issue of pistol licences to two categories Shooters' licences 321 970 of private agent: guard agents and watc~men. Farm permits 34497 Junior permits 7013 3. Pistol licences are renewable yearly and each renewal application is treated as a new Of the 14584 pistol licences on issue, 4196 application with all details being thoroughly were issued to banks, 3575 to companies and checked by police. their employees (including security companies), 4820 to pistol clubs and their members, and As a general rule a "licence to own" is not 1993 to private individuals. granted to an agent who cannot provide docu­ mented proof that he is engaged in providing 3. There were 1850 gun collectors' licences services for a period of at least 30 hours a on issue as at 7 October, 1980. week. Agents employed by the major security companies are generally granted permits to PRIVATE AGENTS carry, but not to own, a pistol, as they are provided with company owned weapons for use (Question No. 351) during their hours of duty. Mr EDMUNDS (Ascot Vale) asked HOUSING COMMISSION UNITS the Minister for Police and Emergency Services: (Question No. 364) 1. How many private agents are registered Mr TREZISE (Geelong North) asked as-(a) process servers; (b) inquiry agents; the Minister of Housing: (c) commercial agents; (d) commercial sub­ How many Housing Commission units within agents; (e) guard agents; and (f) watchmen; the jurisdiction of the Geelong areas office were 5622 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY occupied as at June 1978, 1979 and 1980, respectively, indicating the number occupied by Date Location tenants on rebate rents? 17.12.75 Noradjuha-Jallumba Mr KENNETI (Minister of Housing) 18.12.75 Brooklyn-Tottenham -The answer is: 22.12.75 Nunawadinl 29.12.75 Newport Shops The total number of occupied rented units 12.1. 76 Denalla Loop-Alumatta Loop was as follows: 14.1. 76 Tottenham June 1978 2584 17.1. 76 Rosedale-Sale June 1979 2539 17.1. 76 Flinders Street June 1980 2603 29.1. 76 Kerrisdale-Homewood The number of tenants on rebated rent was 6.2.76 Ouyen-Kiamal as follows: 9.2.76 Flinders Street 18.2.76 Tottenham June 1978 850 27.2.76 Lang Lang June 1979 985 10.2.76 Fern Hill June 1980 1078 2.3.76 Mordialloc 16.3.76 FJinders Street-Spencer Street TRAIN DERAILMENTS 21.3.76 Tarrawarra-Healesville 31.3.76 Flinders Street (Question No. 367) 204.76 Lyonville-Bullarto Mr GAVIN (Coburg) asked the Min­ 16.5.76 Serviceton 20.5.76 Seymour Loop-Longwood Loop ister of Transport: 3.6.76 Somerton Loop-Tullamarine Loop 1. How many train derailments have 21.6.76 Meredith occurred in each of the past five financial 22.6.76 Ninda-Sea Lake years? 23.6.76 Merino-Henty 1. 7.76 Ballarat 2. Where these derailments occurred and 4.7.76 Eltham-Diamond Creek when? 9.7.76 Elmore Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ 9.7.76 Molesworth-Cheviot port)-The answer is: 10.7.76 Laverton 14.7.76 Clunes-Talbot 1. The Victorian Railways Board has ad­ 16.7.76 Miram-Kaniva vised me of the following main line train de­ 19.7.76 Newport railments in the past five years: 27.7.76 Brooklyn 1975-76 51 28.7.76 Newport 1976-77 49 30.7.76 Spencer Street-Kensington 1977-78 35 21. 7.76 Hamilton 1978-79 51 17.9.76 Murtoa 1979-80 82 27.9.76 Shepparton 9.10.76 Broadford 18.10.76 Linton-Pittong Date Location 25.10.76 Windsor 30.10.76 Kaniva 13.7.75 Seymour Loop-Tallarook Loop 4.11. 76 Kaniva-Lillimur 15.7.75 Newstead 18.11. 76 Purdeet-Penhurst 28.7.75 Geelonl 21.11.76 Delgrave-Lakeside 29.7.75 South Kensington 4.12.76 Flinders Street 4.8.75 Graham 6.12.76 Bowser 11.8.75 Murtoa-Lubeck 9.12.76 Dartmoor-Heywood 12.8.75 Chiltern Loop-Wodonp Loop 6.1. 77 Hamilton-Coleraine 29.8.75 Cathkin 20.1. 77 Ararat 2.9.75 North Geelonl 24.1. 77 Flinders Street 9.9.75 Flinders Street 26.1. 77 Laverton-Werribee 15.9.75 Reservoir 11.2.77 Ballarat 18.9.75 Upper Ferntree Gully 17.3.77 Dandenong-Narre Warren 23.9.75 Laverton 30.3.77 Portland 1.10.75 Penhurst-Hamilton 7 A. 77 Tottenham 1.10.75 Wodonp 2804.77 South Kensington-West Footscray 1.10.75 Timboon lunction-Naroahid 5.5.77 Jung-Dooen 2.10.75 Flinders Street 6.5.77 Sea Lake-Ninda 8.10.75 Flinders Street 9.5.77 Albion Loop 13.10.75 Nathalia 9.5.77 Beetomba-Cudgewa 24.10.75 Rupanyup-Jackson 13.5.77 Caulfield 28.10.75 Keotonl-Shelley 18.5.77 Stawell 2.11. 75 Coldstream-Yerinl 19.5.77 Nullan-Sheephills 4.11.75 Maindample 1.6.77 Carrum 13.11. 75 Traralson 3.6.77 Vectis-East Natimuk 13.11. 75 Tonpla 9.6.77 Spencer Street 13.12.75 Spencer Street 16.6.77 Mitcham-Nunawading 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5623

Date Location Date Location 17.6.77 Branxholme-Condah 2.4.79 Dimboola-Salisbury Loop 19.6.77 Ringwood 2.4.79 Yarra Glen-Healesville 20.6.77 Unton 3.4.79 Stawell 21.6.77 Glenorchy 11.4.79 Parwan-Bacchus Marsh 23.6.77 Bright 19.4.79 Newport 9.7.77 Ararat 18.4.79 Spencer Street 13.7.77 Wodonga 26.4.79 Mologa 20.7.77 Flinders Street 5.5.79 Brooklyn-Newport 2.8.77 Nowa Nowa-Orbost 15.5.79 Albion 24.8.77 Flinders Street 21.5.79 Nhill-Salisbury Loop 11.9.77 Glenrowan Loop 23.5.79 Swan HiIl-Woorinen 12.9.77 Hamilton 26·5·79 Shelley-Tallangatta 17.9.77 Somerton Loop 28·5·79 Healesville 21.9.77 Sea Lake 28·5·79 Boorhaman 30.9.77 Brooklyn 30.5.79 Spencer Street 9.11. 77 Narre Warren 6.6.79 South Dynon 29.11. 77 South Yarra 5.6.79 Pyramid-Dingee 2.12.77 Albion Loop 31.5.. 79 California Gully 9.12.77 Horsham 31·5·79 Kilmore East-Broadford 22.12.77 Eltham-Diamond Creek 8.6.79 Perekerten-Balranald 10.1. 78 Greensborough 12·6·79 Flinders Street 2.2.78 Charlton 15·6·79 Sunshine 11.2.78 Cope-Donald 4·7·79 Spencer Street 20.2.78 BeaJiba-St. Arnaud 4·7·79 Spencer Street 23.2.78 Kaniva-Serviceton 8·7·79 South Yarra 6.3.78 Albion-Sunshine 13.7.79 Flinders Street 14.3.78 Flinders Street 14.7.79 Flinders Street 30.3.78 Nowa Nowa-Orbost 21. 7. 79 Williarnstown 3.4.78 South Kensington 25.7.79 Rennie-Sanger 11.4.78 St Kilda 30.7.79 North Geelong 21.4.78 Ringwood 1.8.79 Tungmah-Telford 22.4.78 Spencer Street 8.8.79 Bridgewater 10.5.78 Broadmeadows 13.8.79 Ballarat 11.5.78 Camperdown 14.8.79 Franklin Street 11. 5.78 Woodend 15.8.79 Oaklands-Yarrawonga 27.5.78 Kilmore East 1.9.79 Stawell-Ararat 9.6.78 Tottenham 5.9.79 Pittong-8kipton 14.6.87 Burrum-Banyena 10.9.79 Lubeck-Rupanyip 27.6.78 Bullioh-Tallangatta 11.9.79 Wycheproof-Culgoa 30.6.78 Jackson-Rupanyup 12.9.79 Condah 4.7.78 Flinders Street-8pencer Street 14.9.79 Pittong-Linton 4.7.78 Manangatang-Ultima 26.9.79 Yarrawonga 7.7.78 Rupanyup 28.9.79 Chilingallah-Chinkapook 27.7.78 Spotswood 2.10.79 Wedderburn Junction 23.8.78 Sunshine 3.10.79 Sloane-Warragoon 23.8.78 Ballarat 7.10.79 Maroona 31. 8. 78 Windermere 6.10.79 Ararat 9.9.78 Spencer Street 10.10.79 Branxholme 13.9.78 Mooroolbark 10.10.79 Spencer Street-South Kensington 19.9.78 Birchip 11.10.79 Werribee 20.9.78 Traralgon 21.10.79 Mooroolbark-Lilydale 22.9.78 South Dynon 20.10.79 Ararat 20.10.78 Crib Point 31.10.79 Donnybrook-Craigieburn 6.11. 78 South Kensington 2.11.79 Sanger-Wangamong 15.11. 78 Gordon 4.11.79 Murtoa-Horsham 27.12.78 Yarrawonga 7.11. 79 Wakool-Moulamein 5.1. 79 Mittyack-Kulwin 17.11.79 North Melbourne-8outh Kensington 10.1. 79 Portland 21.11. 79 Sanger-Wangamong 17·1. 79 Lethbridge-Meredith 22.11. 79 Sanger-Wangamong 20·1·79 Flinders Street 29.11. 79 Ballarat 19·1·79 Inglewood 8.12.79 Kaniva 22·1·79 Newport 10.1.80 Ararat 1·2·79 Korong Vale 16.l.80 Stawell 7·2·79 Donald 29.1.80 Spencer Street 3·2·79 Broadmeadows 29.1.80 Croydon 14·2·79 Minyip-8heep Hills 5.2.80 Toolamba 15·2·79 Newmarket 22.2.80 Nhill-Diapur 9.3.79 Nowa Nowa-Tostaree 29.2.80 Telford 10.3.79 Kaniva-LilIimur 5.3.80 South Dynon 5624 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

having regard to accepted building practices. Date Location It is only in circumstances where a builder fails or refuses to accept his respensibilities 4.3.80 Korong Vale-Charlton that the approved guarantor becomes involved 14.3.80 Flinders Street so as to satisfy the consumer's legitimate 15.3.80 South Dynon claims. 15.3.80 Natimuk 18.3.80 Kaniva-Serviceton 21.3.80 Spencer Street 31.3.80 Benalla-Glenrowan SCHOOL BUILDING ENERGY 31.3.80 Korong Vale REQUIREMENTS 2.4.80 Violet Town (Question No. 382) 10.4.80 Pura Pura 12.4.80 Great Western Dr COG HILL (W erribee) asked the 18.4.80 Portland 24.4.80 Spencer Street Minister of Public Works: 24.4.80 Spencer Street VVhat steps have been taken to reduce the 24.4.80 Patchewollock energy requirements for-(a) lighting; (b) 25.4.80 Glenrowan heating; and (c) cooling of- (i) permanent; 5.5.80 Traralgon-Cowwarr and (ii) relocatable school buildings to be 6.5.80 Korong Vale completed in 1979-80 and 1980-81, indicating 8.5.80 Rockbank the steps taken in respect of building design, 11.5.80 Kaniva-Lillimur building materials, building orientation and sit­ 12.5.80 Dimboola ing in relation to the sun, prevailing winds 26.5.80 Mangalore and other factors and any other steps? 4.6.80 Dooen 4.6.80 Patchewollock Mr WOOD (Minister of Public 5.6.80 Mildura 5.6.80 Timboon Works)-The answer is: 6.6.80 Branzholme Steps that have been taken are set out in 11.6.80 Ouyen various reports prepared by my department 12.6.80 Benalla covering energy policy, energy management 12.6.80 Alumatta Loop-Chiltern Loop and energy savings in existing buildings. These 13.6.80 Newtown-Pittong reports are: 14.6.80 Toolamba 20.6.80 Coldstream Energy Saving Design Concepts for Build­ 26.6.80 Yarto-Hopetoun ings; 27.6.80 Mentone How to Save Energy in Buildings and Homes; HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY Energy Saving Guidelines for Mechanical (Question No. 374) Services; Energy Saving Techniques for Existing Dr COGHILL (Werribee) asked the Buildings; Minister for Minerals and Energy, for and can be obtained from the Mechanical Ser­ the Minister for Local Government: vices Branch of the Building Division, Public In respect of the house builders' liability VVorks Department. provisions of the Local Government Act 1958, whether builders have been ·refused indemnity against the costs Of rectification works in cases where the houses have complied with HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY the Uniform Building Regulations, other statu­ (Question No. 383) tory requirements, and approved standards of construction; if so, what number of cases have Dr COGHILL (Werribee) asked the occurred involving each approved guarantor in Minister for Minerals and Energy, for each year, indicating the reason for the refusal in each case? the Minister for Local Government: Mr LIEBERMAN In respect of the house builders' liability (Minister for Min­ provisions of the Local Government Act erals and Energy)-The answer supplied 1958: by the Minister for Local Government is: 1. VVhat is the name and address of each approved guarantor, indicating the date on The benefit of the house builders' liability which each was approved by the Governor scheme is derived by house purchasers. in Council? The approved guarantor bodies guarantee 2. VVhether any private company has been the performance of a builder under the terms approved as a guarantor, indicating the of a contract to construct, or where the house reasons for the recommendation of any such is a spec house, the performance of the builder company for approval? 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5625

3. Whether builders registered with each HOUSING COMMISSION HOUSES approved guarantor are represented on the (Question No. 459) board of directors of their respective guaran­ tor under-( a) the terms and conditions of Mr CATHIE (Carrum) asked the Min­ approval under section 918E (3) of the Act; or (b) any other authority? ister of Housing: 4. What steps have been taken to ensure In respect of the financial year 1979-80: that changes in the ownership or control 1. What was the number of houses sold by of each approved guarantor do not adversely affect builders registered with the guarantor the Housing Commission? or indemnities for which the guarantor is 2. What was the number built, indicating responsible? the categories? Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for 3. What number of houses were available Minerals and Energy)-The answer sup­ for rental? plied by the Minister for Local Govern­ Mr KENNETT (Minister of Hous­ ment is: ing)-The answer is: (a) 1. Housing Builders Association Ltd of 1. 1292. 70 Jolimont Street, Jolimont received Gover­ nor in Council approval on 20 September, 2. 741 houses were constructed or pur­ 1974. chased by the commission. These comprised: (b) Master Builders' Housing Fund Ltd of 332 Albert Street, East Melbourne received Governor in Council approval on 20 Sep­ 3-bedroon7 4-bedroonl tember, 1974. Constructed 2. The approved guarantor bodies are public Brick veneer 615 33 companies limited by guarantee. Concrete 61 3. Yes. Purchased 4. Any change in the directors of the com­ Brick veneer 22 pany must be notified to the Minister for Conite 1 Local Government under clause 3 of the Brick .. 1 Local Government (House Builders' Liability) Weather board 7 Regulations. 707 34 (Question No. 384) Dr COGHILL (W erribee) asked the 3. As at 3 June 1980-21 618. Minister for Minerals and Energy, for the Minister for Local Government: (Question No. 462) In respect of the house builders' liability provisions of the Local Government Act 1958, Mr CATHIE (Carrum) asked the Min­ what reports, returns and documents have been furnished to the Minister by each ister of Housing: approved guarantor, indicating the date on Since the introduction of escalating interest which each item was furnished and the rates in July 1977: period to which it referred? 1. How many houses have been sold by the Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Housing Commission under the system in both the metropolitan area and in the country in Minerals and Energy)-The answer sup­ each financial year? plied by the Minister for Local Govern­ ment is: 2. What has been the movement in average weekly incomes in the community, indicating The approved guarantor bodies have fur­ the increase, percentage increase, and the nished annual reports prepared pursuant to actual increase on a typical loan? the Companies Act 1961, and where Minis­ terial approval has been required for alter­ 3. Whether there has been any alteration ation to existing circumstances, they have in the factors determining deferment by a submitted appropriate papers for consider­ purchaser, indicating the present conditions? ation. Additionally, they have also supplied information concerning activities of builders Mr KENNETT (Minister of Hous­ where requested. ing)-The answer is: If the member for Werribee could be 1. Year ending 30-6-1978-2378 more specific in respect to what information he is seeking, I will endeavour to ascertain 30-6-1979-1754 it for him. 30-6-1980-1208 5626 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

2.

R~paymt'nts bas~d on typical A.1I~rag~ gross loan-assumed w~t'kly ~arnlngs ~ontract fo, employed sign~d July male adult Percrntage 1977. First Inc,~as~ 01 P~rcentage (Victoria) incr~ase of increase r~poym~nt' incr~ase 01 all~rag~ lor Incr~ose on ollerage wt't'kly St'ptember on p"lIiolll r~paym~nt 011 Financial year four quar/~'$ pr~lIious y~Qr ~Q'nings 1978 yt'''' prt'lIious y~ar

$ $ % $ % 1977-78 209.30 18.20 9'52 170.33 1978-79 226.60 17.30 8·27 179.64 9.31 5'47 1979-80 248.30 21.70 9'58 188.96 9.32 5·19 1 September 1980 198.26 9.30 4·92

Typical 10an-$30 000 "subsistence" sector, as in poor Third World countries? Typical term-30 years 2. Whether his attention has been drawn 3. Prior to 10 April 1980, the commission to a description of the people comprising this based decisions on deferment of interest esca­ sector as viewed by and contained in a report lation on .the following guidelines: of the Victorian Chamber of Manufactures (a) If the income did not increase during encompassing its view of such developments? any year, the escalation was to be deferred for that year. Mr HAMER(Premier)-The answer is: (b) If the income increased only margin­ ally and was considered insufficient to en­ 1 and 2. No. I have seen the Victorian Cham­ able payment of interest escalation, the com­ ber of Manufactures report and it does not mission would look at the situation and take provide any substance for the honourable mem­ reasonable action. Each case was to be dealt ber's claims. with on its merits. ( c) If income increased in line with the FAIRLEA WOMEN'S PRISON expected normal community income increase, the higher interest rate was to be paid. (Question No. 488) As from 10 April 1980, the following guide­ Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked lines were adopted: the Minister for Police and Emergency (a) That as a general rule, and subject to Services: special circumstances, a deferment of interest 1. When the Metropolitan Fire Brigades escalation would be granted only when the Board last carried out an inspection at Fair­ increased instalment exceeds 25 per cent of lea Women's Prison? the breadwinner's income ( and the spouse's income if that income was the deciding factor 2. Whether the prison is still defined as a in granting the loan). "severe fire hazard" as described in the Report of the Social Welfare Department for the year (b) That a welfare worker's report be 1977-78? obtained on every application for deferment of the escalating interest rate and that the Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police appropriate regional or district manager and Emergency Services)-The answer endorse the report with a recommendation. is: 1. 5 November 1980. "SUBSISTENCE" SECTOR IN 2. As the existing buildings at Fairlea VICTORIA Women's Prison are mostly constructed of timber, they constitute a fire hazard in the (Question No. 470) prison environment. However, a new accom­ Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ modation unit which is currently being erected, is constructed substantially from fire resistant tion) asked the Premier: materials. As the existing buildings are re­ 1. Whether he is aware that Victoria now placed, fire resistant materials will continue possesses a large and growing "informal" or to be used for new construction. 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5627

WORK RELEASE UNIT AT ARARAT Report of the Victorian Council of the Arts GAOL and Ministry for the Arts for the year 197~77; if so-(a) who undertook the inquiry; (b) (Question No. 493) what were its terms of reference; (c) whether Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked a copy is available and where; and (d) what the Minister for Community Welfare were its main conclusions and recommenda­ Services: tions? How many prisoners have been involved in Mr LACY (Minister of the Arts)­ the work release unit at Ararat gaol during the past three years, how many are presently in­ The answer is: volved in the programme, and how many have The inquiry referred to was commenced by dropped out of the programme in this year to the Theatre Working Party of the Victorian date and in the past three years? Council of the Arts in January 1978, research Mr JONA (Minister for Community to complete the inquiry is continuing. Welfare Services)-The answer is: (a) The Victorian Council of the Arts Eight prisoners have participated in the work Theatre Working Party. release programme at Ararat since October (b) Investigate the current state of theatre 1977. in Victoria with regard to subsidized and com­ There are no prisoners currently involved mercial activities. in the programme. Identify the associated problems. There has been no instance of a prisoner Make recommendations for future improve­ dropping out of the programme during 1980. ments and developments. During the past three years only one prisoner (c) Inquiry continuing. has dropped out of the programme, such having occurred in 1978. (d) Inquiry continuing. Although the programme has been operating at Ararat satisfactorily, it has never been HOUSING COMMISSION CONTRACTS developed to its full potential due to certain (Question No. 499) practical restrictions. These have included, firstly, the inability of staff to be continuously Mr CATHIE (Carrum) asked the Min­ involved in the supervision of a work release, ister of Housing: while endeavouring to undertake their normal How many Housing Commission home pur­ duties. Secondly, the facility used to accom­ chase contracts have been surrendered in each modate the prisoner, namely the Officers Mess month in the past two years, indicating the­ and quarters, was not designed to meet the (a) estate; (b) amount; ( c) additional costs needs of such a programme. Consequently to the commission; and (d) number who re­ there have been instances where prisoners have verted to tenancy, including their reasons? been precluded from the programme because they were unsuited to a relatively insecure Mr KENNEIT (Minister of Housing) situation. Thirdly, because Ararat is classified -The answer is: as a medium security prison a majority of the Answers to (a), (b) and (d) follow. inmates are in the middle portion of their (c) No separate record is kept of addi­ sentences and subsequently do not meet the tional costs to the commission associated with criteria for work release. the surrender of a home purchase contract. Such costs would be of a minor nature only. THEATRE INQUIRY (a), (b) and (d). (Question No. 496) Details of reasons for reversions to tenancy Mr CATHIE (Carrum) asked the Min­ are not available in respect of the 79 Con­ ister of the Arts: tracts of Sale surrendered between 1 July 1978, to 30 June 1979. Particulars which follow re­ Whether an inquiry into all aspects of the late to the months from July 1979, to October theatre was undertaken, as proposed in the 1980. 5628 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Total Number reverted to tenancy and reasons number Matrimonial Estate surrendered separation Financial Unemployed Others

July 1979 Cranbourne 1 1 (bankrupt) Broadmeadows 1 Hampton Park t Mornington 1 St Albans 2 1 (pension) Somerville 1 Werribee 2 2 Hastings 2 2 Norlane 1 Wodonga 2 1 Total 14 6 2

August 1979 Ashburton 1 Broadmeadows 2 Endeavour Hills 2 Patterson Lakes 1 St Albans 1 Sunshine (Glen Gala) 1 Werribee 2 2 Bacchus Marsh 1 Corio t Hastings 2 Wangaratta 1 Total 15 2

September 1979 Broadmeadows t Heidelberg 1 1 (pension) Mornington 1 Sunshine 1 Donald 1 Total 5

October 1979 Baxter 1 Broadmeadows 4 Cranbourne 1 Endeavour Hills 2 Iordanville South 1 Mornington 1 St Albans 1 Sunshine 1 Werribee 2 1 (pension) Ararat 1 Hastings 1 Heathcote 1 Whittington t Total 18 2 2 2

November 1979 Broadmeadows 2 Baxter 1 Endeavour HiJls 1 Hampton Park 1 Iordanville South 1 Mornington .. 1 Sunshine 1 Bacchus Marsh 1 Hastings 2 NorIane 2 Total 13 4 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5629

Total Number reverted to tenancy and reasons number Matrimonial Estate surrendered separation Financial Unemployed Others

December 1979 Broadmeadows 3 2 1 Coburg I Gladstone Park I Mornington .. 1 Patterson Lakes 1 Preston East 1 St Albans 2 Werribee 1 Ballarat I Hastings 1 Shepparton 1 Total 14 S 2

January 1980 Broadmeadows 4 Endeavour Hills 2 Mornington 1 Patterson Lakes 1 Hastings 1 Wangaratta I Total 10

February 1980 Patterson Lakes 2 St Albans 1 Sunshine 1 Bendigo 1 Shepparton 1 Whittington .. I Total 7

March 1980 Baxter 1 Broadmeadows 6 2 Coburg 1 Cranbourne 1 1 (pension) Endeavour Hills 1 Heidelberg 1 Mornington 2 Patterson Lakes 1 Preston 1 Somerville 1 Werribee 2 2 Castlemaine 1 Churchill 1 Corio 1 Norlane 1 Total 22 3 2

April 1980 Broadmeadows 1 Hampton Park 1 Heidelberg 1 Noble Park 1 St Albans 2 1 (pension) Somerville 1 .. Sunshine 1 Benalla 1 Echuca 1 Hastings 1 Total 11 2 5630 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Total Number reverted to tenancy and reasons number Matrimonial Estate surrendered separation Financial Unemployed Others

May 1980 Broadrneadows S 3 Doveton 1 Frankston .. 1 Mornington .. 1 Noble Park 1 Patterson Lakes 1 1 (pension) Sunshine 1 Werribee 2 1 Belmont 1 Churchill 1 Corio 1 Echuca 1 Whittington 2 Wodonga 1 Total 20 7

June 1980 Baxter 1 1 Broadmeadows S 1 1 (pension) Endeavour Hills 1 Maidstone 1 1 Mornington .. 1 St Albans 2 Mildura 1 Warragul 1 Total 13 3 2

July 1980 Baxter 1 Broadrneadows 2 1 Maidstone 1 1 Mornington .. 3 1 St Albans 1 1 Somerville 1 1 Werribee 1 1 Benalla 1 1 Corio 2 1 Hastings 1 1 Lakes Entrance 1 Whittington .. 1 Total 16 8 2

August 1980 Ashburton 1 1 Broadrneadows 7 2 3 Endeavour Hills 1 1 Momington .. 1 1 St Albans 2 2 Somerville 1 1 Sunshine 1 Werribee 1 Ballarat 1 Corio 2 Corryong 1 Echuca 1 Moe .. 1 Shepparton .. 1 Whlttington 1 1 Total 23 6 7 2 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5631

Total Number reverted to tenancy and reasons number Matrimonial Estate surrendered separation Financial Uhemployed Others

September 1980 Patterson Lakes 1 Baxter 1 1 Ballarat 1 Bacchus Marsh 1 West Heidelberg 1 1 Creswick 1 1 St Albans .. 3 2 Whittington 1 1 Broadmeadows 2 1 (pension) Frankston 1 Hastings 1 Seymour 1 1 Cobram 1 I Total 16 6 1 2 1 October 1980 Broadmeadows 4 2 1 St Albans 1 Horsham 1 Benalla 1 Hastings 1 Total 9 1 2 2

TRAFFIC INCREASES ON WARRIGAL Between Waverley Road and the Princes Highway the LIO (18 hour) noise levels at the ROAD facades of buildings are expected to increase (Question No. 508) in the order of 0 to 2 dB (A). In the absence of long term monitoring at this location. no Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the definitive prediction of air pollution levels can Minister of Transport: be made. 1. What traffic increases are expected to 2. No. occur in Warrlgal Road between Waverley and Darling roads following the opening of the Mulgrave Freeway link and prior to the open­ ALLOWANCE FOR PARENTS ing of the Gardiner's Creek Valley Freeway, DRIVING CHILDREN TO SCHOOL and what are the expected increases in air and noise pollution levels? (Question No. 509) 2. Whether consideration has been given to Mr B. J. EVANS (Gippsland East) protecting or compensating householders in asked the Treasurer: the section of Warrigal Road in question, as was done for householders in Alexandra Parade, Whether, in view of the increase in the con­ Fitzroy, following the opening of the Eastern veyance allowance for secondary school stu­ Freeway; if so, with what result? dents to a maximum of $300 per annum, any consideration was given to increasing the Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ allowance to parents who have to drive their children to school, which has remained at $50 port)-The answer is: per annum for some years; if so-Ca) whether 1. It is expected that traffic volumes in due weight was given to the fact that running Warrigal Road will increase following the open­ costs of motor vehicles are rising faster than ing of the Mulgrave Freeway to Warrigal Road public transport fares; and (b) what is the by: reason for not increasing the latter allowance? (a) in the order of 21 000 vehicles a day on the short section between the freeway and Mr THOMPSON (Treasurer)-The Waverley Road, and in the order of 6,000 answer is: vehicles a day between Waverley Road and The matter of increasing generally convey­ High Street Road, and ance allowances was considered during the (b) in the order of 2000 to 5500 vehicles preparation of the 1980-81 Budget. However. a day between the freeway and the Princes because of the substantial increases in costs Highway (Dandenong Road)-the amount of that have occurred, funds were directed to­ the increase will depend on the location of wards substantially increasing the maximum the count in respect to the access to Chad­ secondary conveyance allowance which was in­ stone Shopping Centre. creased from $231 to $255 from the beginning 5632 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY of second term in 1980 and will then be in­ conducted in this way and substantial econo­ creased to $300 from the commencement of mies have been achieved up to this point in first term 1981. time by adopting this approach. The conveyance allowance of $50 per an­ Meanwhile, other programmes have been num for parents who have to drive their chil­ evolving that have required the council to dren to school was not able to be increased keep the laboratory situation under review. but this allowance will be reviewed during the Negotiations are still under way with the preparation of the Budget for the 1981-82 fin­ United States nepal'ltment of Energy for a ancial year. joint investigation of the possible application for the CO-Steam process in Victoria to be conducted at the laboratory "conltinuous pro­ LATROBE VALLEY cessing unit" scale. The work will be supported (Question No. 516) by a grant from the National Energy Research Development and Demonstration Programme. Mr AMOS (Morwell) asked the Min­ It is also expected that a substantial labora­ ister for Minerals and Energy: tory facility will be incorporated in the major pilot plant development associated with the In view of question No. 636 first asked on Japanese SRC liquefaction process. This 50- 19 June 1979 remaining unanswered at the end tonne per day plant is expected to be built of the last sessional period relating to the at Morwell and employ a significant number of Premier's statement at a coal symposium at Victorian workers during construction and Traralgon on 3 June 1978 in which he said his operation. Government would establish a process research and development laboratory together with an The Government believes that the council associated experimental pilot plant in the has adopted a responsible approach to the Latrobe Valley early in 1979: laboratory situation and has been able to sat­ isfy the research requirements of the State's 1. Whether the construction of the labora­ brown coal conversion programme in a most tory has commenced; if not, what are the effective and economical way. reasons for the delay and whether the siting of the laboratory has been determined? OIL-FIRED HEATERS 2. What is the current estimated total cost for the research and development laboratory (Question No. 519) and what is the estimated date for completion of the laboratory? Mr AMOS (Morwell) asked the Minis­ ter for Minerals and Energy: 3. Whether the design for the pilot plant has been finalized? In view of question No. 1384 first asked on 17 October 1979 remaining unanswered at the 4. Whether the pilot plant will be operational end of the last sessional period relating to his by 1982 as promised; if not, what is the cur­ stated estimate that over 1000 oil-fired heaters rent estimated date for the commissioning of are installed in Government buildings: the pilot plant? 1. What contingency plans have been made 5. What is the current estimated cost for to overcome the escalating price for heating the pilot plant facilities? oil and the increasing availability problems? Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for 2. What specific amount has been budgeted Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: for to enable conversion of such heaters? Soon after the Premier made his statement 3. Whether the Government will honour its to the Brown Coal Symp

Conversions have been undertaken or Under the Commonwealth guidelines it is started at various mental hospitals, one agri­ not usual to establish a fixed clinic at a school cultural college is ready to go to tender and with less than 600 children unless special a second one is at present being documented. circumstances exist. Most of the public offices, particularly the One of the area dental officer's main respon­ ones in the metropolitan area, have been con­ sibilities is the supervision of a number of verted. dental therapists of whom the majority operate from mobile dental caravans. 3. Yes. It follows therefore, that a double surgery dental clinic is usus ally established in a central TAXATION location at a school with an enrolment of at least 600 children. (Question No. 520) Mr AMOS (Morwell) asked the Minis­ HOUSING COMMISSION ter for Minerals and Energy: (Question No. 554) In view of question No. 1975 first asked on 12 March 1980 remaining unanswered at the Mr McCLURE (Bendigo) asked the end of the last sessional period: Minister of Housing: 1. In view of the fact that ,the Gas and l. Whether the Borough of Eaglehawk has Fuel Corporation and the State Electricity applied to act as rent collection agent for the Commission have increased their tariffs to pro­ Housing Commission; if so, whether the com­ vide for their obligation to meet the Govern­ mission has acceded ,to the request and, if not, ment's increasing demands under the Public why? Authorities (Contributions) Act 1966, what 2. Whether any municipalities in Victoria act action the Government has taken to inform the as rent collection agents for the Housing Com­ general public of its indirect taxation meas­ mission; if so, which municipalities? ure? 2. Whether he will consider providing infor­ Mr KENNETT (Minister of Housing) mation on turnover tax obligation on con­ -The answer is: sumers' Gas and Fuel Corporation and State 1. Yes. The Housing Commission was pre­ Electricity Commission accounts similar to the pared to appoint the Borough of Eaglehawk value added tax notification required in the as its collecting agent in respeot of elderly United Kingdom by that Government; if not, persons units only. As to other tenants and why it is considered unnecessary to inform the house purchasers, it was felt that the Ben­ public of the Government's tax measures? digo regional office offers the best possible service by combining ,the rent collection func­ Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for tion with that of welfare counselling, register­ Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: ing maintenance complaints, financial counsell­ ing in arrears cases, etc. By separating the l. None. The matter has already been re­ rent collection function from other functions, ported in the press. the client contact with commission officers would be lessened to the disadvantage of the 2. No. The Public Authorities (Contribu­ client. tions) Act 1966 does not require such action to be taken. 2. Yes. Shires of Alexandra, Avon, Bulla, Gordon, Charlton, Mount Rouse, Healesville, SCHOOL DENTAL CLINICS Karkarooc, Huntly, Melton, Newstead, Omeo, Ouyen, Sepastopol, Upper Yarra, Waranga, (Question No. 529) Wycheproof and Yea. Dr COGHILL (Werribee) asked the Minister of Health: VICTORIAN ARTS CENTRE What criteria are applied in determining (Question No. 559) schools eligible for the construction of two­ Mr CATHIE (Carrum) asked the Min­ chair school dental clinics? ister for the Arts: Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) During the years 1976 to 1978 inclusive, what -The answer is: works at the Victorian Arts Centre were changes in position of form work, demolition Under current policy a two-chair fixed school work and rebuildin~ of major concrete struc­ dental clinic is planned where a base is required tures, respectively, Indicating ,the cost in each for an area dental officer. case? The surgery for the area dental officer is Mr LACY (Minister for the Arts)­ provided in addition to a surgery operated by The answer is: a dental therapist who provides a dental seryi~e for the children at the school where the clImc During the course of the theatres project is established. a number of minor changes to formwork al- 5634 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY ready erected were necessary and some local­ significant developments have already occurred ized demolition of concrete components was and in this period of economic restraint, every also required. effort is being made to responsibly redirect existing resources into areas of high priority The total cost of all such remedial work where opportunities arise for this to occur. was $801, over the period 1976 to 1978. On the Concert Hall project there have been no alterations to already erected form work. REPORTED CRIMES The only demolition of concrete work related (Question No. 576) to a section of temporary retaining wall re­ moved to improve vehicle access to the site. Mr CULPIN (Glenroy) asked the Min­ ister for Police and Emergency Services: SOCIAL WELFARE What crimes have been reported to the (Question No. 572) Broadrneadows police station during each of the years 1975 to 1979 and in this year ,to Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked date, indicating the-(a) categories; and (b) the Minister for Community Welfare percentage of reported crimes solved? Services: Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police What is the effect on the implementation of and Emergency Services)-The answer the White Paper "The Future of Social Welfare is: in Victoria" of the State Government's failure to utilize all the savings,. made through the The answer to this question is incorporated Commonwealth assuming responsibility for in­ in the reply given ,to question No. 611. come support arrangements for lone parenls from 1 January 1980, for welfare programmes in line with the commitment made in the 1979 FEES FOR LICENCE TESTING State Budget Speech? (Question No. 581) Mr JONA (Minister for Community Welfare Services)-The answer is: Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the Minister for Police and Emergency In my statement to the Legislative Assembly Services: on 11 September 1980 it was indicated that there has been substantial effort towards the In respect of fees charged for licence test­ implementation of all the major recommen­ ing and for the obtaining of learner drivers' dations of the White Paper. permits: Evidence was given of the progress that has 1. What was the income from each cate­ been achieved under each of the ten major gory of test in 1979-80, and what is ,the esti­ policy determinations. mated income for this financial year? However, the statement also highlighted a 2. What was the cost of administering the number of proposed initiatives, the develop­ scheme in the last financial year, and what ment of which must necessarily depend upon is ,the estimate for this financial year? available resources. In particular, it was noted that the proposed Social Planning Co­ Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police ordination Unit required additional staff re­ and Emergency Services)-The answer sources, as did the advisory councils support staff. is: My statement also indicated that the follow­ 1. ing programmes were dependent upon addi­ tional resources for future development: pre­ Estimated Income income ventative services for families and young per­ Category of test 1979-80 198~81 sons; alternative programmes to institutional care; improved prison accommodation; addi­ S $ tional attendance centres; community service Licence Ttst order scheme; adult court advisory service; (a) Appointment fees for tests 653 S41 735000 regional pre-court advisors and regional super­ (b) Test fees .. J 149618 J 286500 Learners' Permit visors of community corrections. Test (a) Appointment fees for tests 510797 550000 It is true that not all the savings resulting (b) Test fees 980887 1 130000 from the Commonwealth Government assuming responsibility for income support arrangements for lone parents have been directed into the 2. The cost of administering the scheme in above-mentioned areas of programme develop­ 1979-80 was $2292157, consisting of police ment. The development in these areas will and public service salaries, printing and post­ therefore occur at a rate commensurate with age costs, and the cost of leasing and clean­ the flow of funds to the department. However, ing of premises at 459 Little Collins Street, 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5635

Melbourne for the central learner driver's per­ what was the number of-(i) vacant dwellings; mit section. The estimated cost for 1980-81 (ii) vacant dwellings undergoing maintenance, is $2412500. specifying the type of dwelling at 1 September 1980; and (iii) dwellings of each category in HOUSING COMMISSION DWELLINGS each of the cities expressed as a total? (Question No. 582) Mr KENNEIT (Minister of Housing) Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the -The answer is: Minister of Housing: Housing Commission rental dwellings vacant In respect of Housing Commission dwellings in the municipalities of Fitzroy. Brunswick and in (a) Fitzroy; (b) Brunswick; and (c) Coburg, Coburg at 1 September 1980:

Flats Houses Elderly elderly person person Municipality bed-sitting I-bedropm 2-bedroom 3-bedroom l-bedroom 2-bedroom 3-bedroom

Brunswick , ,Total vacancies . , 6 Under maintenanace 2 Coburg , ,Total vacancies . , 'i 1 4 S Under maintenanace 4 S Fitzroy . ,Total vacancies .. 'i 24 8 1 Under maintenanace 8 S Total number of rental dwellings­ Brunswick 276 S6 12 107 7 23 Coburg 22 27 48 31 91 Fitzroy 63 44 611 . 393 1 4 3S

YOUTH REFUGES In addition to the above services, a further eleven projects providing emergency accom­ (Question No. 605) modation for adolescents usually in the form of family placement or supported boarding Mr GAVIN (Coburg) asked the Min­ programmes have been established in the ister for Community Welfare Services: southern. Wimmera, Upper Murray, outer east, inner urban, inner eastern, Barwon, Central 1. How many youth refuges there are, in­ Gippsland, Loddon-Campaspe, and north dicating their locations? eastern regions. In all. the Youth Accommoda­ 2. Why the Latrobe Valley does not have tion Services Programmes have enabled the establishment of twenty-one services in fourteen a youth refuge? of the eighteen regions in the State. Mr JONA (Minister for Community 2. The Central Gippsland Youth Emergency Welfare Services)-The answer is: Accommodation Co-operative initially sub­ mitted for YASP funds in September 1979. In reply to the above question the following At this time it was considered by the Com­ information is forwarded: monwealth-State Management Committee of YASP that this proposal was more appro­ 1. Ten residential units providing emergency priately a State responsibility. given that the accommodation services for adolescents (youth social dislocation and in particular the housing refuges) have been established in Victoria crisis being experienced in the Latrobe Valley, under the Commonwealth-State Youth Accom­ were seen as being related to State power modation Services Programme. These units, generation projects. It was thus considered with their location are as follows: that this proposal should be forwarded to the Ministerial Council responsible for the Focus of service oversight of Latrobe Valley Development Service Location delivery Funds, for consideration of possible funding of the project from this source. 1. Moondana Hostel " Warrandyte ., Statewide service for Aboriginal girls Subsequent to this, the Commonwealth-State 2, Salvation Army North Fitzroy Inner urban region Management Committee of Y ASP allocated an Homeless Youth amount of $18500 to the project on the Project 3, "Brayton" Shepparton " Goulburn region grounds that a youth accommodation project 4, Ace/Fusion Youth Oakleigh .. Southern region would have existed in the Latrobe Valley. Refuge although at a substantially lower level. irre­ S. Western Youth Footscray .. Western suburbs Refuge spective of power generation projects. 6. North West Youth Brunswick .. North west region Refuge The Latrobe Valley proposal was, however, 7. Westernport Youth Dandenong .. Westernport ruled ineligible for development funds on the Refuge region grounds that only capital projects would be 8. SHAC . . . . Blackburn .. Outer east region 9. Montrose House .. Montrose .. Outer east region funded from this source. At this stage, all 10. Stopover ., .. Carlton .. Inner urban region funds available to YASP are committed and it is unlikely that further funds will become 5636 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

available in the foreseeable future. Given 3. What is the daily cost of maintaining­ this, it is unlikely that the Latrobe Valley (a) a prisoner in Pentridge Prison or a similar proposal will be developed. institution; and (b) a ward of the State or youth in an institution? POLICE STATIONS (Question No. 611) Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police Mr CULPIN (Glenroy) asked the Min­ and Emergency Services)-The answer ister for Police and Emergency Services: is: 1. What crimes have been reported to the 1. Statistics on crimes reported to the Broadmeadows, Fawkner and Westmeadows Broadmeadows, Fawkner and Westmeadows police stations, respectively, during the years police stations are compiled by the Broad­ 1975 to 1980 inclusive, indicating the-(a) meadows Criminal Investigation Branch. categories involved, and (b) percentage solved? The crime clearance rate is calculated for 2. What police stations in the metropolitan the area covered by the branch as a whole, area are designated to he police cadet and re­ which also includes the Glenroy Police Station. cruit training stations? The relevant information is as follows:

NUMBER OF CRIMES REPORTED

Nature of crime

1975 1976 1977 Homicide 1 1 2 I Serious assault .. 117 70 47 9 96 27 46 5 147 50 i7 14 Robbery 766 I 14 9 2 1 17 7 4 Rape .. 4 1 1 7 4 I 23 4 I 417 287 141 94 368 270 159 li, 465 339 160 101 ¥h~~ary.. .. 936 442 203 110 998 486 213 124 963 483 263 J25 Theft of motor vehicle . . . . 228 122 62 46 202 140 66 32 230 148 73 39 Fraud, false pretences, forgery, etc... 39 12 53 16 84 22 8 6 68 17 9 41 other ofl'ences 269 107 54 16 497 194 90 43 610 219 99 44 Totals 2018 1048 567 292 2266 1154 585 338 2524 1267 636 337 Percentage of crimes cleared 43· 52 per cent 50·01 per cent. 37· 14 per cent.

~ .. o ~ "0 o "0 ~ >. c2' "0as ec j ..!! e .!! C) ca C) ~ Nature or crime

1978 1979 1980 Homicide 3 I I Serious assault .. 254 82 85 ii lii 3' is 10 170 4i 38 12 Robbery 16 J3 I I 16 9 8 2 12 5 3 J Rape .. 11 I 2 4 4 5 4 I Burglary 638 467 126 164 687 371 128 147 644 353 227 207 Theft.. .. 1072 519 194 183 1379 41 I 338 150 1087 394 271 193 Theft of motor vehicle . . . . 216 100 56 32 301 118 82 41 246 100 43 28 Fraud. false pretences. forgery. etc ... 101 9 73 49 13 7 175 49 98 65 Other ofl"ences 677 2~g 274 61 550 132 153 109 535 148 112 55 Totals 2988 1448 738 475 3131 JJ32 740 466 2873 1092 792 562 Percentage of crimes cleared 41' 51 per cent. 36·75 per cent. 38·72 per cent. 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5637

2. There are no police stations in the metro­ Golden Oakes Retirement Village, when Gov­ politan area designated as police cadet and ernment subsidies were withdrawn, why, and recruit training stations. All police recruit what alternative means of transport are .to be training is carried out exclusively at the Police established? Academy at Glen Waverley. Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ Once recruits complete their training at the Police Academy, they become probationary port)-The answer is: constables and are allocated to designated Subsidy payments have not been withdrawn training stations. from this service. The following metropolitan police sta,tions The position is that B. M. Walke('s Bus are designated training stations for probation­ Services Pty Ltd, of Bendigo recently applied ary constables: to the Transport Regulation Board to delete the bus service to Golden Oakes because of City West Sunshine poor patronage and insufficient revenue to Carlton Dandenong meet the costs. Port Melbourne Springvale Although deletion of the service of Golden Northcote Glen Waverley Oakes was proposed by the company and the Moonee Ponds Doncaster patronage figures of six to twelve passengers Coburg Greensborouh a day supported the company's application the board required the company to operate a lim­ Brunswick Reservoir ited number of trips to provide access to and Box Hill Heidelberg from Bendigo. Camberwell West Heidelberg Caulfield Cheltenham The subsidy payment for all route bus ser­ vices operated by B. M. Walker's Bus Ser­ Elsternwick Brighton vices is calculated in the same basis as that Malvern Oakleigh of other route bus operators in Bendigo, Bal­ Kew Avondale Heights larat and Geelong. Haw,thorn Broadmeadows Collingwood Melton WONTHAGGI HIGH SCHOOl: Prahran Nunawading St Kilda Ferntree Gully (Question No. 617) Fitzroy Mooroolbark Mr FORD HAM (Footscray) asked the Altona North Ringwood Assistant Minister of Education, for the Werribee Mordialloc Minister of Education: Footscray Frankston With regard to Wonthaggi High School: WilIiamstown 1. Why there has been a reduction in the The Radio Electronics Division, Independent office staff from two to 1· 5? Patrol Group, Shrine Guard, and the Women Police Divisions located at the following police 2. In view of the urgent need for additional stations, have also been designated training support for teachers at the school, whether stations for probationary constables: the Government will agree to either increase the present number of office staff or provide RusselI Street Heidelberg a teacher aide; if not, why? Flemington East BentIeigh Mr LACY (Minister of Educational Caulfield Avondale Heights Services)-The answer is: Prahran Nunawading My colleague the Minister of Education Altona North Frankston advised the honourable member by letter dated Dandenong 27 February, 1981 as follows: 1. The enrolment at Wonthaggi High School warrants the employment of only 1·5 office SUBSIDIZED BENDIGO BUS SERVICE staff in accordance with the Public Service (Question No. 613) staffing formula. The reduction took place following the resignation of the previous full­ Mr CRABB (Knox) asked the Minister time typist and the school is now staffed in of Transport: accordance with the prescribed formula. In respect of the bus service operated by 2. It is not the policy of the department Walkers Bu:, C;ervice, Bendigo and serving the to provide teacher aides for office duties. 5638 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

DJERRIWARRH SPECIAL rick) has written to me on the topic of waste DEVELOPMENTAL SCHOOL oil recovery, enclosing a discussion paper for (Question No. 619) consideration by members of the Australian Minerals and Energy Council at its next meet­ Dr COGHILL (Werribee) asked the ing. My department is studying the discussion Assistant Minister of Education: paper and I have written to Senator Carrick endorsing 'the inclusion of the subject at the In respect of the construction of the Djerriwarrh special developmental school: next Australian Minerals and Energy Council meeting. 1. What were the dates on which tenders were advertised, indicating each newspaper in which an advertisement appeared? HOUSING INTEREST RATES 2. What was the date on which tenders closed? (Question No. 632) 3. How many tenders were received and Mr CAT HIE (Carrum) asked the whether the lowest tender was accepted; if not, Minister of Housing: why? 1. Since the introduction of escalating in­ Mr LACY (Minister of Educational terest rates-Ca) how many houses have been Services)-The answer is: sold, indicating the length of contract and the additional revenue received through escalation; I, in my capacity as the Minister of Edu­ cational Services, advised the honourable and (b) how many of these contracts have member by letter dated 27 February 1981 as since defaulted or been cancelled, indicating follows: the reasons and percentages for each of the past four years? 1. Public tenders were not invited for this project. The former Minister of Special Edu­ 2. What are the current ranges of interest cation requested Public Works Department to rates? proceed with the construction of a home en­ vironment school based on two "Guest" proprietary type home units. Mr KENNETT (Minister of Housing) -The answer is: 2. The invitation for Guest Homes to submit a tender was dated 28 April 1977 on a design 1. (a) Part One: Total number of houses and construction basis. The tender closed on sold with variable interest rates to 31-12-1980 17 May 1977. -5897. 3. Only one tender was received as only Guest Homes were invited to submit a tender. Part Two: Terms range between 20 years Approval for tender, without public tenders and 45 years. As revenue statistics do not being invited, was given by Governor in Council differentiate between standard interest and on 7 June 1977. The tender was then accepted escalating interest purchase contracts, addi­ on 8 June 1977. Total cost of project was $177256 for two homes. tional revenue received through escalation is not known.

OIL RECYCLING (b) Only a small proportion of defaulted contracts result in cancellation of contracts. (Question No. 624) Set out below are Housing Commission Dr COGHILL (Werribee) asked the statistics on the number of cases of default Minister for Minerals and Energy: cancellations. Records are kept of the num­ What action has been taken to encourage ber of Notices to Quit issued in each region oil recycling in response to the action of the or district, but as there is no differentiation Commonwealth Minister for National Develop­ between standard and escalating interest con­ ment and Energy in drawing .the matter to his tracts, total defaults in escalating interest attention, referred to on page 1358 of the cases are unknown. House of Representatives Hansard in answer to question No. 6467? Also set out below are details, including reasons for cancellation, which are available Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for as from 1 July 1979, and are based on cases Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: at the time of surrender of contracts (legally The Honourable the Minister for National reverted to commission) which were subject Development and Energy (Senator J. L. Car- to escalating interest. 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5639

Cancelled cOtItracts subject to escalating interest stating retuons Total contracts Escalating Become delault~d interests perulOMrs and contracts Matrimonial Found Financial Other Finandal year cancelled surrendered separation abandoned problf!trU unemployed <'"':3fiIn~ ) retuOM

1977 /78 31 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 1978-79 79 N/A NIA NIA N/A N/A N/A ,N/A SOl 1979-80 162 91 31% 20% 16% 9°'10 10 19% 1. 7 . 80 to 31. 10.80 .. 64 41 46% 7% 27% 10% 10% 366 NIA

2. The current range of interest is from Mr KENNETI (Minister of Housing) 4·5 per cent to the lowest rate of savings. -The answer is: . bank interest rates on comparable first mort- gage homes, currently 11·5 per cent. 1. Allocations for the 1980-81 financial year, were made to eleven regions of Victoria. and EDUCATION DEPARTMENT were based on the region's proportion of the (Question No. 647) total Viotorian waiting list. Allocations to each secretary-manager Mr FOGARTY (Sunshine) asked the within a region were based on two criteria: Assistant Minister of Education: (i) the size of the waiting list; Whether the Education Department owns land located at the north-west corner of West­ (ii) the efficiency of the management. moreland and Ballarat roads, Sunshine; if so, what is the intention of the department in pro­ The weighting of each criterion was 50 per viding-(a) additional educational facilities for cent each. Efficiency was based on the follow­ the people of Sunshine; and (b) for future ing: development of the area by the department for educational purposes? 1. Amount of institutional finance raised. Mr LACY (Minister of Educational 2. Usage of the previous year's funds. Services)-The answer is: 3. Inspectors' reports. I, in my capacity as the Minister of Educa­ 4. The submitting of annual returns. tional Services, advised the honourable member by letter dated 3 March 1981 that the depart­ 5. Repayment of funds to the Registry. ment does own the land at the north-west corner of Westmoreland and Ballarat roads, In some cases it was necessary to give an Sunshine. The matter of additional educational allocation to a secretary with a low efficiency facilities and future use of the site are presently rating, so as not to penalize applicants in iso­ being investigated by the Planning Services lated country areas. Division of the department. As yet no decision has been made. In the metropolitan area, each secretary was expected to have raised funds for housing from institutional sources. If they were un­ GRANTS TO SECRETARIES OF successful but had received a high efficiency HOUSING SOCIETIES assessment, they were given an allocation (Question No. 660) based on their waiting list numbers. Mr CATHIE (Carrum) asked the Secretary-managers of rural areas were not Minister of Housing: necessarily expected to have raised institu­ tional finance for housing. and accordingly a 1. What are the present guidelines and for­ lower efficiency standard was set for country mula for grants to secretaries of co-operative housing societies? districts. 2. What is the current waiting list for 2. Waiting lists contained 8142 applicants grants? at the end of August 1980. 3. What were the allocations to each sec­ retary, in each of the past three years, and 3. (a) The following schedule is a list of in this financial year indicating the total allocations from Ithe Home Purchase Assist­ amount, the number of loans and the source ance Account in each of the past three years of these funds? and for the current financial year. 5640 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Name 1977-78 1978-79 1979-80 1980-81

$ $ $ $ Arnel, R. S. 450000 250000 200000 Ashman, C. W. 275000 Atkins, C. H. 200000 Barber, O. R. 800000 1 300 000 250000 950000 Bartrop, B. E. 200000 250000 200 000 Bayne, W. B. 250000 250000 ]50000 Bond., N. S. 250000 300 000 200 000 Boyd, H. W. 350000 300000 250000 300 000 Brennan, L. A. 350000 . . Brown, R. A. 900000 I ]00000 650000 325000 Burns, V. E. 1000000 800000 550000 175000 Bussey, A. J. 250000 300000 400000 375000 Butcher, L. G. 500000 500 000 Carr, C. L. 250000 300000 200000 325000 Carruthers, H. J. 350000 300000 300000 250000 Chalmers, H. 250000 250000 350000 375000 Chandler, J. · . 250000 Chaundy, J. P. and Henry, J. 300000 250000 ]50000 Clancy, P. J. and Laws, J. M. 550000 550000 300000 200 000 Clarke, N. F. D. 500000 300 000 200 000 Clayton, V. 400000 400000 400000 Collins, A. F. 750000 450000 650000 675000 Courtney, P. J. .. .. 950000 1250000 1000000 975000 Cowan, D. K. and Gavens, F. E. 350000 350000 200000 400000 Cramer, W. C. 400000 200 000 ]50000 200 000 Cunningham, G. W. 200000 200 000 ]50000 ]00000 Davenport, G. K. · . 300000 400000 200000 David, A. R. 300000 300000 200000 975000 Dempsey, M. J. 250000 ]50000 De Zilwa, R. 300000 300000 Douell, J. I. H. 200 000 250000 ]50000 Douglas, W. T. 250000 300 000 ]50000 Downard, A. C. 250000 350000 200 000 250000 Duncan, D. O. 250000 Dykes, W. G. 250000 300 000 200 000 425000 Engelhardt, S. 200000 350000 ]50000 Eva, L. S ... 1200000 450000 200000 400000 Evans. F. J. 250000 250000 ]50000 125000 Ewert, K. W. W. · . 250000 Farrow, R. G. 350000 450000 500 000 Faulkner, E. A. 250000 150000 Finn, N. S. 700 000 500000 300000 400000 Fraser, E. R. 250000 French, H. N. 400000 400000 250000 ]25000 Gill, G. 250000 Gourlay, M. H. 250000 300 000 200 000 500000 Graham, E. A. B. · . 600000 350000 250000 Gunning, R. D. 250000 250000 150000 Haebich, J. F. 250000 ]50000 75000 Heale, J. 250000 Henke, J. J. 300000 300000 150000 Hetyey, A. 300000 300 000 Hiscock, F. W. 275000 Hitchen, K. J. 300000 Hodgson, N. W. 250000 250000 200000 250000 Holmes, H. C. 1050000 750000 550000 500 000 Hoye, N. M. 250000 Hurst, F. M. 250000 250000 150000 250000 Illingworth, J. S. 350000 350000 250000 250000 Iredale, F. E. .. .. 400000 250000 ]50000 Jackson, E. and Bland, G. N. 200000 Johanson, W. N. 450000 250000 200000 325000 Jolley, S . . . 200000 125000 Jones, J. J. 250000 300 000 Kearney, M. C. 200 000 200000 150000 KelJy, H. C. 250000 Kentman, V. 250000 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5641

Name 1977-78 1978-79 1979-80 1980-81

$ $ $ $ Logan, D. A. 250000 300000 150000 125000 Loney, R. M. J50000 Longney, R. W. 250000 Looker, D. L. 350000 400000 Lowe, D. Y. 500000 500000 400000 200000 McGarth, B. F. 400000 200000 200000 275000 McIvor, 1. T. 350000 McKenzie, D. G . . . 200000 McMillan, P. A. 500000 500000 250000 775000 McNee, I. 700000 1500000 800000 800000 McPhail, E. F. 300000 200000 McQuillen, W. J. 200000 250000 150000 .. MacKenzie, A. 300000 250000 150000 150000 MacKenzie, R. C. 250000 400000 200000 150000 Mann, J. 250000 250000 150000 Martino, N. 200000 200000 275000 Mason, J ... 250000 Maybury, R. B. 400000 350000 450000 500000 Merei, N. M. 250000 Mogg, L. T. 250000 300000 150000 150000 Morris, R. S. 350000 200000 325000 O'Mullan, M. J. 400000 750000 850000 650000 O'Neill, R. A. 1300000 1000000 1300000 1750000 Peevers, T. D. 250000 300000 150000 750000 Perrett, D. 400000 250000 150000 125000 Pitson, G. H. 400000 200000 350000 325000 Plumridge, E. A. 250000 250000 200000 200000 Porter, A. J. 250000 150000 275000 Prowse, C. R. 500000 250000 150000 275000 Punshon, D. N. 200000 200000 150000 Purvis, G. 300000 500000 300000 Roberts, M. J. 250000 300000 150000 100000 Rose, B. J. 1 500000 1650000 1950000 1 625000 Sayer, R. W. 200000 Shaw, H. 250000 Simrnons, V. R. 250000 250000 Sinnott, J. P. 250000 250000 300000 300000 Smith, C. 450000 300000 200000 300000 Smith, J. H. 300000 400000 200 000 250000 Stephens, L. C. .. .. 300000 Stephenson, G. and Thompson C. .. 450000 500000 450000 125000 Stephenson, N. A. .. 250000 300000 500000 175000 Stewart, F. D. 250000 400000 200000 425000 Stewart. P ... 200000 300000 150000 100000 Suss, E. 300000 Tate, R. H. 250000 250000 150000 100000 Taylor, M. H. J. 400 000 400000 200000 350000 Thorn, B. G. 350000 300000 250000 325000 Tonkin, W. J. 250000 300000 250000 400000 Tortorella. J. 300000 350000 200000 Travers. K. R. 500000 450000 600000 625000 Trevaskis, J. C. 250000 300000 150000 100000 Turnbull, P. L. 350000 Turnley, T. E. 200 000 250000 150000 Van Herpen, J. 200 000 250000 150000 100000 Washington, D. C. 400 000 200000 200000 Watson, I. A. 450000 250000 200000 Webb, B. F. 250000 150000 Wheaton, L. 250000 300 000 150000 125000 White, C. T. 300 000 Whitrnore, R. J. 250000 300000 150000 75000 Wood, R. A. .. 200000 Wright, M. W. 250000 Yarr, N. F. 200 000 300000 350000 250000 ZabIud, P. S. 200 000 Zeeno, A. N. 300000 150000 Arnel, R. S. 550000 300 000 Session 1981-194 5642 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Name 1977-78 1978-79 1979-80 1980-81

$ $ $ $ Barter, O. R. 1000000 500000 350000 Bartrop, B. E. 250000 150000 Boyd, H. W. 250000 300000 150000 200000 Brown, R. A. 250000 500000 250000 Bums, V. E. 1000000 800000 250000 Carr, C. L. 250000 250000 150000 200000 Carruthers, 1. 1. 300000 150000 Chalmers, H. .. .. 500000 CIancy, P. J. and Laws, I. M. 250000 500000 Carke, N. F. D. . . 1000000 300000 150000 Oayton, I. 250000 300000 CoUins, A. F. 1000000 500000 250000 200000 Courtney, P. I. .. .. 1000000 750000 350000 Cowan, D. K. and Gavens, F. E. 350000 150000 Ccamer, W. C. 250000 150000 Davenport, G. K ... 500000 400000 200000 200000 David, A. R. 250000 250000 150000 Downard, A. C. 500000 300000 150000 300000 Dykes, W. G. 250000 150000 Eva, L. S... 500000 400000 200000 Farrow, R. G. 250000 300000 150000 Finn, N. S. 1000000 500000 250000 Fraser, B. R. 500000 French, H. N. 250000 400000 200000 Gourlay, M. H. 250000 150000 500000 Graham, E. A. B. .. 500000 300000 150000 Heoke, I. J. 500000 300000 150000 Hetyey, A. 500000 300000 150000 Hiscock, F. W. 150000 Hodgson, N. W. 250000 150000 500000 Holmes, H. C. 1000000 750000 350000 Illingworth, I. S. 300000 150000 250000 Iredale, F. E. 250000 150000 Johanson, H. N. 250000 150000 Kentman, V. 400000 200000 Longney, R. W. 250000 400000 Locker, D. L. 150000 200000 Lowe, D. Y. 1000000 McGrath, B. F. 250000 350000 150000 275000 Mclvor, I. T. 300000 150000 McMillan, P. A. 250000 500000 250000 McNcc1 I. 500000 500000 250000 McPhail, E. F. 500000 300000 150000 200000 MacKenzie, A. 500000 MacKenzie, R. C. 250000 Mann, J ... 250000 150000 Martino, N. M. 300000 Mason,l... 300000 250000 Maybury, R. B. 1000000 350000 150000 200000 Merei, N. M. 500000 Morris, R. S. 150000 O'Mullane, M. 1. . . 1000000 750000 350000 300000 O'Neill, R. K. 250000 1000000 550000 3375000 Perrett, D. 250000 400000 200000 Pitson, G. H. 250000 250000 150000 Porter, A. I. 600000 Prowsc, C. R. 250000 250000 150000 275000 Purvis, G. 1000000 500000 250000 Roberts, M. J. 300000 Rose, B. 1. 1000000 750000 350000 Smith C...... 300000 150000 200000 Stephenson, G. T. and Thompson c. .. 250000 500000 375000 Stephenson, N. A...... 250000 150000 Stewart, F. D. 1000000 Taylor, M. H. 1. . . 250000 300000 Thom, B. G. 250000 300000 150000 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5643

Name 1977-78 1978-79 1979-80 1980-81

Tonkin, W. J. 250000 150000 Tortorella, J. 1000000 350000 150000 Travers, K. R. 250000 150000 Washington, D. C. 250000 150000 Watson, J. T. 250000 250000 150000 White, C. T. 500000 250000 150000 Wright, M. W. 250000 300000 Yarr, N. F. 250000 250000

PUBLIC HOUSING City of Frankston (a) 83, (b) 34, (c) 13. (d) 39, (e) 40, (I) 5. (Question No. 665) Shire of Cranbourne Mr CATHIE (Carrum) asked the Cranboume Minister of Housing: (a) 8, (b) 4, (c) I, (d) 4, (e) 8, (I) 1. 1. How many current applications are held Koo-wee-rup for public housing in the Westernport region, (a) 4, (b) 2, (c) -, (d) 3, (e) 5, (t> -. for both purchase and tenancy, indicating for each municipal district in the region the-(a) Lang Lang lone person; (b) low rental; ( c) childless (a) 6, (b) 2. (c) 3, (d) 8. (e) 5. (I) 1. couples; (d) two bedroom family; (e) three Shire of Flinders bedroom family; and (t) large family categor­ Rosebud ies? (a) 5. (b) 4, (c) -, (d) -, (e) -. (t) -. 2. What is the current provision of housing for each of these categories in each municipal Shire of Hastings district? (a) 22, (b) 14, (c) I. (d) 24. (e) 11, (I) 2. 3. What are the current plans for providing Shire of Momington additional housing in each municipal district? (a) 39, (b) 19, (c) 13. (d) 49, (e) 31, (f) 2. Mr KENNETI (Minister of Housing) Shire of Pakenham -The answer is: Pakenham 1. Legend: (a) L.P.U., (b) L.R.U., (c) (a) -, (b) -. (c) -. (d) 20, (e) 7, Childless couples, (d) 2 BR. (e) 3 BR, (f) (t> -. Large families. Bunyip City of Chelsea (a) 12. (b) 5, (c) -, (d) -. (e) -, (t) -. (a) 7, (b) 2, (c) -. (d) -, (e) -, (f) -. City of Dandenong Shire of Phillip Island (a) 103, (b) 67, (c) 69, (d) 292, (e) 222. Cowes (f) 24. (a) 6. (b) 7, (c) -, (d) -, (e) -, (I) -.

Existing provision 0/ housing 1980-81 Total number Locality programme o/units Sold (Villas) Rented (Units)

City of Berwick .. .. 55 Villas 379 Villas 340 39 City of Chelsea 40 Villas 39 1 and 20 EP's 20 EP's City of Dandenong .. 26 Villas 2646 Villas 2224 432 and 180 EP's 180 EP's City of Frankston .. 24 EP's 2428 Villas 2067 361 and 7S EP's 75 EP's Shire of Cranbourne .. 58 Villas 157 Villas 151 6 Koo-Wee-Rup .. .. 16 EP's 26 Villas 18 8 and 12 EP's 12 EP's Lang Lang 15 Villas 13 2 and 10 EP's 10 EP's Hampton Park .. 259 Villas 257 2 5644 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Name 1977-78 1978-79 1979-80 1980-81

Shire of Flinders­ Rosebud Shire of Hastings " 16 Group Houses 588 Villas 301 287 and 20 EP's 13 EP's 20 EP's Baxter 53 Villas 49 4 Shire of Mornington .. 16 EP's 123 Villas 79 44 and 94 EP's 94 EP's Mornington (Tanti Park) .. 640 Villas 603 37 Shire of Pakenham .. i i Villas 40 Vi1Ias 30 10 Bunyip . . 8 EP's Shire of Phillip Island- Cowes 25 EP's 25 EP's

HOUSING COMMISSION ESTATES 5. The number of houses which have to be sold in the public and private sector bears no (Question No. 666) relation to the break-even point, as the pro­ Mr CATHIE (Carrum) asked the Min­ ject sells land, not houses. ister of Housing: The number of lots actually sold to end of With regard to Pakenham, Goonawarra and September 1980 are: Private 7, Public 5. Cranbourne estates: 6. No villa allotments will be held for ren­ 1. What is the proportion of social mix? tal housing. 2. Whether any co-operative housing funds The number of special housing units and have been allocated to ,these areas and, if so, aged persons units that will eventually be what is the amount in each case, indicating available for rent are approximately: Special the normal allocation and the additional funds? Housing 70, Aged Persons 50. 3. What is the expenditure to date, indicating (b) Cranbourne the main items? 1. Approximatetly 65 per cent private; 35 4. What are the expected costs, showing per cent HCV. the main details? 5. What is the break-even point in relation 2. $200000 (79-80); Nil (80-81). to meeting costs, indicating the number of 3. Expenditure to 31.10.80: houses which would have to be sold in both Land Account $1 621078.68. the public and private sector, and the number Development Account $3 488207.65. that have actually been sold to date? 4. Engineering $42 132.00. 6. How many houses will be available for Building $3 250 000.00 (130 houses). rental? 5. The number of houses which have to be Mr KENNETT (Minister of Housing) sold in the public and private sector bears no -The answer is: relation to the break-even point, as the pro­ ject sells land, not houses. (a) Pakenham The number of lots actually sold to end of 1. Approximately 65 per cent private; 35 per September 1980, are: Private 55, Public 24. cent HCV. 6. No villa allotments will be held for ren­ tal housing. 2. $200 000 (79-80) ; $200 000 ( 80-81 ) . ( c) Coonawarra 3. Expenditure to 31.10.80: 1. The social mix for Coonawarra has re­ (i) East mained consistent since initial planning and Land Account $2 054 028.06 I refer the honourable member to the replies ,Development Account $2 152631 .35 given to question Nos. 2329-April 30, 1980, (ii) West and 664-0ctober 30, 1980. Land Account $1669436.99 2. Nil (79-80); $325000 (80-81). Development Account $82026.32 3. Expenditure to 30.11.80: 4. East (Stage I) Land Account $5 602 228.00. Engineering $32000.00 Development Account $8432 128.00. Building $850000.00 4. The costs expressed in current terms and (34 houses) budgetted over a development period of twelve 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5645

years and a selling period of fifteen years are PRECEDENCE OF BUILDING as follows: SCHOOLS Buildings for resale, i.e. community (Question No. 676) facilities, shops, schools, &c. $1 518000 Accommodation, plant and equip­ Mr CULPIN (Glenroy) asked the ment $178000 Assistant Minister of Education: Refundable Charges $1 186000 What criteria is used by the-(a) Education External and General Scheme $8804000 Department; and (b) Departmental Regional Works Offices, in relation to precedence of building Golf Course $787000 schools? Subdivision Construction $16140000 Marketing and selling expenses and Mr LACY (Minister of Educational Community Service Subsidiaries $2853000 Services)-The answer is: . Construction wages and salaries and admin. salaries and expenses $4195000 I, in my capacity as the Minister of Educa­ tional Services, advised the honourable member $35661000 by letter dated 2 March 1981 as follows:- The peak cash outflow for development is "(a) Upon submission of a regions building about $9'5 million. This occurs in 1981-82. priorities, new schools are approved and pro­ From 1981-82 the negative cash situation pro­ vided, dependent upon financial constraints. gressively reduces until ,the estate is fully developed and sold. At this stage it is antici­ (b) The needs of an area are monitored, pated that the "break-even" pOint would have been reached, i.e. all costs of land, develop­ both by a region and the planning services ment and holding charges will have to be division. When it becomes apparent that there recouped by the yield from sales and cost are insuffic,ient schools servicing an area, the recoveries. It must be stressed however that region recommends on its building programme very long range predictions beyond about 1985 for the provision of additional schools." are somewhat speculative. 5. The number of houses which have to be sold in the public and private sector bears no WASTE DISCHARGES relation to the break-even point as the project (Question No. 677) sells land, not houses. The number of lots actually sold to the end of September 1980 Mr CULPIN (Glenroy) asked the Min­ are: Private 29, Public 19. ister of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, 6. The number of houses available for pub­ for the Minister for Conservation: lic housing rental will be approximately 375- one sixth of the total number of lots. 1. Which companies located within the City The balance will be allocated to public of Broadmeadows and the Shire of Bulla dis­ housing purchase clients, private persons and charge wastes into either the Merri or Moonee private builders. Ponds creeks, specifying the name of the com­ pany and the type, rate, and volume of dis­ charge each year? BRUNSWICK HIGH SCHOOL 2. In respect of such companies-(a) how (Question No. 672) many licences have been amended and what Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the are th"! details; and (b) how many licences Assistant Minister of Education: have been suspended or revoked specifying­ (i) the name of the company; (ii) the reason In respect of Brunswick High School, for suspension or revocation; (Hi) whether the whether cyclic maintenance has ever been licence was re-issued; and (iv) whether the carried out on the school, whether it was company was fined? planned for this year and if so, when it will now commence? Mr WOOD (Minister of Immigration Mr LACY (Minister of Educational and Ethnic Affais)-The answer supplied Services)-The answer is: by the Minister for Conservation is: I, in my capacity as the Minister of Educa­ I am advised by the Minister for Conserva­ tional Services, advised the honourable member tion that the details of licences relating to dis­ by letter dated 3 March 1981 that records indi­ charges to the Merri and Moonee Ponds Creeks cate that no cyclic maintenance has been and their tributaries in the City of Broad­ carried out at Brunswick High School. On meadows and the Shire of Bulla, of licence present priorities it is not expected to com­ amendments, suspensions or revocations, and mence this financial year. of convictions and fines are as follows: ()1 Environment Protection Authority Current Licences 0') ~ 0') Maximum Maximllm annual discharge volume rate Point 0/ discharge Licence No. Licensee Type of discharge m' l/minute Shire of Bulla to Discharge Moonee Ponds Creek and ~ to ~ tributaries Cl) ~ E.P.A. Licences .• EWOOOO75/4 Melbourne and Metropolitan Treated sewage ·N/A N/A o· Board of Works (MMBW) ;::s EXOOOI02/S The Roman Catholic Trusts Treated sewage 11680 40 Cl) Corporation for the Diocese of o Melbourne ::s EXOOO133/9 The Statutory Corporation known Treated sewage 54750 150 Z as the Greenvale Geriatric o ~ Centre o· Note: <':) Previous M.M.B.W. licence MW000626/6 to be re-issued as E.P.A. licence EX 133 /9 M.M.B.W. Licences . . MWOOlS18/9 Pioneer Concrete Pty Ltd Dust collection system wet 16425 75 scrubber quarry discharge MWOO1086/7 Mobil Oil Aust. Ltd Petroleum and aviation fuel bulk 365 45 storage stormwater run-off MWOOO107/0 " Mobil Oil Aust. Ltd Stormwater run-off from 365 45 petroleum products marketing premises MWOOOI06/1 Mobil Oil Aust. Ltd Stormwater run-off from 365 45 petroleum products marketing premises Discharge to Merri Creek and tributaries M.M.B.W. Licences MWOOl660/9 Shire of Bulla Pool contents filter backwash .. 350.4 660 MWOO1193/8 Shire of Bulla Septic tank system N / A N/A MW000091/6 Steel Mains Pty Ltd Septic tank system Pipemaking 6570 220 effluent MWOO1295/9 Martin Bright Steel Ltd Septic tank system 9125 45 MW000837/4 Public Works Department Septic tank system 16425 45 Craigiebum Primary School City of Broadmeadows Discharge to Merri Creek and '>en tributaries en E.P.A. Licences " EXOOOlOO/9 Preston Motors Pty Ltd Treated sewage Vehicle and parts 4380 J50 tr1 washwater a: EXOOOlOl/2 J.I. Case (Aust.) Ply Lld Treated sewage Vehicle washwater 2]90 1400 Dj t"'" Stormwater containing waste to( Environment Protection Authority Current Licences- (Continued) -0 Maximum Maximum 3: annual discharge ~... n volume rate ::T Point of discharge Licence No. Licensee Type of discharge m3 l/minute (0 M.M.B.W. Licences MWOOl778/9 Allsett Transport Industries Pty Septic tank system N/A N/A -00 Ltd ~ MWOOOO27/5 Concrete Industries Ltd Septic tank system 365 45 - M WOO1 656/0 lpec Co. Pty Lt Sullage Vl Vl MWOO114814 Jetaway Aust. Pty Ltd Septic tank system 1095 45 tr1 MWOOOOO4/2 SAAB-Scania Aust. Pty Ltd Septic tank system 2190 45 s: MWOOI811 15 Greer Wire Industries Pty Ltd .. Septic tank system 2190 45 tJj MWOO1251/9 Mole Engineering Pty Ltd Septic tank system 730 45 t""4 MWOO1598/5 Bruce Timbers Pty Ltd .. Septic tank system 365 45 -< Environment Protection Authority Current Licences- (Continued) 0 Maximum Maximum E: Annual Discharge $:I.) Volume Rate (i Point of Discharge Licence No. Licensee Type 0/ Discharge m'J l/minuU ::r

MWOO1658/6 ACTU /So10 Enterprises Pty Ltd Lubritorium area washing 365 45 -coCC MWOO1872jO George Stampatopoulos Septic tank system N/A N/A MWOOOl99j9 Esso Aust. Ltd Septic tank system 4380 45 '--'- Discharge to Moonee Ponds Creek and tributaries

M.M.B.W. Licences MW000959j3 Pandiar Freight Ltd " Septic tank system 1095 45 MWOO1888/S Budget Rent-A-Car System Pty Ltd to Automatic car wash effluent 1095 45 s:: ~ MWOO1509/5 Kay Rent-A-Car Pty Ltd Car wash effluent 730 45 Cl) MWOO1507/9 Kay Rent-A-Car Pty Ltd Septic tank system 730 45 g. MWOOO266j8 Metropolitan Dairies Pty Ltd Liquid milk packaging and ]8250 50 ;:s processing Cl) MWOOO267jl Metropolitan Diaries Pty Ltd Liquid milk packaging and 18250 50 0 processing :l ~ 0 0' -~ Environment Protection Authority Amended Licences

Point 0/ Discharge Licence Number Licensee Name Date Amended Amendment Details

Shire of Bulla Discharge to Moonee Ponds Creek and tributaries E.P.A. Licences EXOOOI02j5 The Roman Catholic Trusts Corp- 17 September 1976 Licence amended to standard oration for the Diocese of format Melbourne ] 2 April 1979 Previous M.M.B.W. licence re­ issued as E.P.A. licence EXOOO133/9 The Statutory Corporation known 20 June 1975 Licence amended to standard as the Greenvale Geriatric format. Name Chanae Centre 9 July ]976 Licence amended to standard format

9 December 1977 Licence amended to standard C1I format. Discharge point ~ clarified C&)

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0/ 0/

of of

tributaries tributaries

tributaries tributaries

Discharge Discharge Discharge Discharge

M.M.B.W. M.M.B.W. City City

E.P.A. E.P.A.

M.M.B.W. M.M.B.W.

M.M.B.W. M.M.B.W. Point Point Environment Protection Authority Amended Licences- (Continued) -o Point 0/ Dischil,ge Licensee No. Licensee Name Date Amended Amendment Details 8: ~ MWOO12S3/S Georges Jet Gas Pty Ltd 31 August 1979 Licence transferred. Discharge rl point clarified ::r MWOO1213/7 Q. H. Automotive Ltd 7 July 1978 Discharge point and site conditions clarified co- 00 18 July 1980 Licence transferred Discharge point location amended ...... - MWOOO557/1 Perfect Wood Mouldings Sales 28 October 1977 Conditions clarified Pty Ltd 19 October 1979 Licence transferred and amended to standard format ,0 MWOOOO36/9 .. SEC as Trustee of SEC Super- 10 October 1975 Sampling point location clarified ~ annuation Fund Cl)...,. 29 July 1917 Licence amended to standard o· format ;:s 30 March 1979 Licence transferred. Discharge en point description amended o MWOOOS38/0 Campbellfield Clay Co. Pty Ltd 21 May 1976 Flow rates and volume of waste ;:s increased. Discharge point :2: amended o MWOOO537/7 Brick and Pipe Industries Pty 10 February 1978 Flow rates and volume of waste ...,. increased. Discharge point 5· amended et) MWOO1625/6 O. R. and S. J. Witton 10 August 1979 Licence amended to cover install­ ation of new plant MWOO1399/0 lpec Co. Pty Ltd 28 March 1980 Licence amended to delate septic tank system MWOO1129/3 lpec Co. Pty Ltd 29 July 1917 Discharge point clarified 28 March 1980 Licence transferred and amended to standard format MWOO1207/2 B.B.R. Australia Pty Ltd 3 November 1978 Licence amended to standard format MWOOI402/5 A.N.I. Corporation Ltd 25 January 1980 Licence transferred and amended to standard format MWOOI204/3 Ford Motor Co. of Australia 10 February 1978 Licence amended to standard Pty Ltd format MWOO1218/2 Simsmetal Pty Ltd .. 21 September 1979 Licence amended to standard format MWOOI041/4 Body Corporate Strata Plan No. 17 July 1976 Licence transferred and amended 11460 to standard format 16 June 1978 Licence transferred and amended to standard format MWOO1621/4 .. Rubery, Owen and Kemsley 27 April 1979 Biochemical Oxygen Demand m Pty Ltd limits relaxed - ClI Environment Protection Authority Amended Licences- (Continued) 0') ClI Point 0/ Discharge Licence No. Licensee Name Date Amended Amendment Details N

NWOOI081/2 Selka Nominees Pty Ltd 12 March 1976 Discharge point clarified 31 March 1978 Licence amended to standard format ,0 MWOOO209/5 H. J. and V. P. Belmore 9 July 1976 Conditions clarified s::: ~ 28 July 1978 Licence amended to cover new «"'to treatment plant o· 30 March 1979 Sampling point amended ;::s MWOO1296/2 Northern Welding Services Pty 3 Novennber 1978 Conditions clarified and E. coli en o Ltd conditions included ;::s MWOO1173/0 Karessa Manufacturing Co. Pty 18 February 1977 .. Sampling point amended Ltd ~ o 10 February 1978 Licence amended to standard «"'to format o· 20 July 1979 Sampling point amended ~ MWOOO320/1 Chamberlain John Deere Pty 21 February 1975 Conditions clarified Ltd 30 April 1976 Discharge point clarified 16 June 1978 Licence amended to standard format and E. coli conditions included MWOOO294/3 .. Beaurepaire Tyre Service Pty 21 May 1976 Conditions clarified 7 July 1978 Licence amended to standard format and E. coli conditions included 25 January 1980 Licence transferred and amended to standard format MWOOO354/4 Cojay Administrations Pty Ltd to October 1975 Licence amended to standard format 9 December 1977 Sampling point clarified MWOOO754/0 Alcan Australia Ltd .. 17 September 1976 Sampling point amended 16 June 1978 Licence amended to standard format and E. coli conditions included MWOO1430/0 Caltex Oil (Australia) Pty Ltd .. 20 July 1980 Licence transferred and amended to standard format MWOO1383/5 Cummins Diesel Sales and Service 3 March 1978 Site conditions amended '>C/l (Australia) Pty Ltd C/l 7 December 1979 E. coli limit relaxed trJ s: MWOOll94/7 Thos W. Ward (Australia) Pty 21 April 1978 Licence amended to standard tr:I Ltd format and E. coli conditions t"'" included ~ Environment Protection Authority Amended Licences- (continued) -o Point of Discharge Licence No. Licensee Name Date Amended Amendment Details ~ s:P.., n MWOOO68412 Charmac Industries Pty Ltd .. 30 April 1976 Licence amended to combine trade and sewerage discharges ::r Licence amended to standard 30 March 1979 c.o format -00 MWOOI721 13 Readymix Group Ltd 19 October 1979 Sampling point amended ...... WOO 13 Harnischfeger (Australia) Pty Ltd 20 August 1976 Sampling point amended - M 1077 18 November 1977 .. Conditions clarified 10 August 1979 Sampling point clarified MWOOI64613 Ford Motor Co. of Australia Ltd 19 October 1979 Discharge point clarified to MWOO1701/9 Ford Motor Co. of Australia Ltd 19 October 1979 Discharge point clarified s:: e\) MWOOI068/9 Sist Construction Pty Ltd 17 June 1977 Licence amended to standard Cl) ~ format o· 30 March 1979 Name change ;:l MWOOI069/2 Sist Construction Pty Ltd 30 March 1979 Name change Cl) o MWOOI073 11 Mack Trucks Australia Pty Ltd 17 September 1976 Sampling point clarified ;:l 9 December 1977 Licence amended to standard format z o MWOO1279/1 W. R. and I. M. Skinner 7 July 1978 Conditions clarified and E. coli ~ conditions included n· e\) MWOOl148/4 Jetaway Australia Pty Ltd 3 November 1978 Licence amended to cover plant alterations MW000004/2 SAAB-Scania AustraJia Pty Ltd 21 May 1976 Licence amended to standard format 30 March 1979 Previous licence revoked and discharges added to this licence MWOO1251/9 Mole Engineering Pty Ltd 27 April 1979 Company number amended. Licence amended to standard format MWOOOJ99 19 . . Esso Australia Ltd 20 August 1976 Licence amended to standard format 23 May 1980 Licence amended to standard format Discharge to Moonee Ponds Creek and tributaries M.M.B.W. Licences MW000959 /3 .. Pandair Freight Ltd .. 17 April 1976 Licence amended to standard format 21 April 1978 Licence amended to cover new treatment plant MWOOO267/1 .. Metropolitan Dairies Pty Ltd .. 3 March 1978 Site conditions amended due to c.n Ol diversion of discharges to sewer c.n CA) C1I Environment Protection Authority Licence Suspensions/Revocations 0') C1I Point of Discharge Licence No. Licensee Name Suspension / Revocation Details ~ Shire of Bulla Discharge to Merri Creek and tributaries M.M.B.W. Licences MW000091/6 . . Steel Mains Pty Ltd Suspended 10 May 1979 for breach of licence Suspension lifted 19 September 1979 due to compliance ,0 with licence s:: ~ City of Broadmeadows (I) Discharge to Merri Creek and tributaries o· -;::s M.M.B.W. Licences MWOO1657/3 F. A. Neill Pty Ltd Suspended 15 July 1980 for non-payment of fee (I) Suspension lifted 23 September 1980-Iicence fee paid MWOO1173/0 Karessa Manufacturing Co. Pty Suspended 24 January 1979 for non-payment of licence o Ltd fee ;::s Suspension lifted 19 February 1979-licence fee paid MWOO1430/0 Caltex Oil (Australia) Pty Ltd .. Suspended 14 November 1980 for breach of licence ~ Suspension lifted 12 December 1980 due to closure of r;' premises and action by company to comply with -~ licence Discharge to Moonee Ponds Creek and tributaries M.M.B.W. Licence MWOO1S09/5 .. Kay Rent-A-Car Pty Ltd Suspended 22 September 1978 for non-payment of licence fee Suspension lifted 17 October 1978-licence fee paid Suspended 19 August 1980 for non-payment of licence fee Suspension lifted 14 October 1980-licence fee paid

Environment Protection Authority Convictions Point of Discharge Licence No. Licensee Name Conviction Details Shire of Bulla Discharge to Merri Creek and tributaries M.M.B.W. Licence MW000091/6 Steel Mains Pty Ltd Convicted and fined 7 July 1978 City of Broadmeadows Discharge to Merri Creek and tributaries M.M.B.W. Licence MWOO1621/4 Rubery, Owen and Kemsley Pty Convicted and fined 17 October 1980 Ltd '>en Discharge to Moonee Ponds Creek and en tributaries tr1 M.M.B.W. Licence MWOO1S09/5 . • Kay Rent-A-Car Pty Ltd Convicted and placed on good behaviour bond 23 ~ February 1979 ~ ~ 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5655

EXTERNAL REPORTS 2. How many of these consultants are carrying out work previously performed by (Question No. 685) permanent or temporary officers of the com­ Mr ROSS-EDWARDS (Leader of the mission? National Party) asked the Premier: Mr KENNETT (Minister of Housing) 1. How many reports the Government re­ -The answer is: ceived during the past four financial years 1. 1977 10 from external sources other than Government 1978 27 departments or statutory authorities? 1979 28 2. What was the purpose and the cost of 1980 44 each of these reports? 2. None. Mr HAMER (Premier)-The answer is: URBAN RENEWAL FUND 1 and 2. The question necessitates seeking (Question No. 705) detailed information in regard to each State Government department or instrumentality and Mr CATHIE (Carrum) asked the organization for which each Minister may be Minister of Housing: directly or indirectly responsible. The time What funds are currently held in the Urban and cost of obtaining this information could Renewal Fund, indicating their source, the not be justified. purposes of this fund, and whether the money could be used for a spot purchase programme INTEREST RATE INCREASE to secure protected tenants in Victoria? DEFERMENTS Mr KENNEIT (Minister of Housing) (Question No. 686) -The answer is: An amount of $550 000 has been made Dr COGHILL (Werribee) asked the available under the Annual Appropriation Act Minister of Housing: for 1980-81 operating expenses associated with What are the conditions under which interest urban renewal proposals. No capital funds rate increase deferments will be granted in currently exist, nor have any been provided respect of Housing Commission purchase con­ for 1980-81, that would be available for a tracts providing for escalating interest rates? spot purchase programme financed from the fund, now titled the "Neighbourhood Re­ Mr KENNETT (Minister of Housing) development Fund". -The answer is: If the new monthly instalment under a POLICE CADETS Contract of Sale, where the interest rate is increased by O· 5 per cent, is in excess of (Question No. 707) 25 per cent of the purchaser's monthly income, the higher interest rate will be deferred on Mr SIMPSON (Niddrie) asked the application. This means there is no change Minister for Police and Emergency in the monthly instalment. The usual period Services: of deferment is twelve months-subject to review. If the deferred monthly instalment is 1. When the Victoria Police Force recruiting still in excess of 25 per cent of the purchaser's office in Russell Street will be advised by gross monthly income at the end of that either the Minister or the Chief Commissioner period, a further period of deferment will be that there are to be no more cadets to be granted. A purchaser will not be required to recruited for training at Spencer Street training pay the increased instalment until it is equal headquarters? to or less than 25 per cent of the gross monthly 2. When the more than 400 recruit applicants income. The Housing Commission will forgo will be advised that their services are no the amount not paid because of the deferment of the increased interest rate. longer required for pOlice cadet training? Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police HOUSING COMMISSION and Emergency Services) -The answer CONSULTANTS is: (Question No. 697) 1 and 2. The Chief Commissioner of Police formally advised the Police Recruiting Division Mr CAIN (Bundoora) asked the Minis­ of the Government's decision to phase out the ter of Housing: Police Cadet Training Scheme in November, 1. How many persons were engaged as 1980. Applicants who had hoped to join the consultants by the Housing Commission as scheme at the beginning of 1981 were also at 31 December in the years 1977, 1978, 1979 officially informed of the Government's decision and 1980 to date? at that time. 5656 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

BASS STRAIT HYDROCARBONS were leased for use as an apprentice training annexe to Richmond Technical College. Be­ (Question No. 712) cause of off-street car parking requirements Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ imposed by the Collingwood City Council a tion) asked the Minister for Minerals town planning permit was refused. The department has since considered using and Energy): the premises for various purposes without Regarding the agreement on definition of success. The premises are currently used for "well-head value" for Bass Strait hydro­ storage. The original file was mislaid but has carbons which was reached with Esso-BHP since been recovered. It will be made available on 22 May 1980, whether he will reveal the for audit inspection upon request. size of the adjusting royalty payment owed by Esso-BHP to the State and advise how much interest the Bass Strait partners will HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY pay on this liability, some of which has been outstanding for 12· 5 years? (Question No. 733) Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Dr COGHILL (Werribee) asked the Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: Minister for Minerals and Energy, for The calculations involving the adjustment the Minister for Local Government: of royalty payments in accordance with the When answers will be supplied to question agreement reached with licensees on 22 May Nos. 374, 383 and 384, respectively, notice 1980 are proceeding. It has always been of which was given on 10 September 1980 the understanding of departmental officers that and which followed notice given in the pre­ any adjustment to the interim royalty arrange­ vious session on 25 March 1980? ments would not result in interest charges being levied or claimed by either party. Our Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for preliminary estimates indicate that the agree­ Minerals and Energy)-The answer ment will result in the licensees owing the supplied by the Minister for Local Government in the region of $5 million. Government is: EDUCATION DEPARTMENT LEASE IN The answers to the questions mentioned ABBOTS FORD have now been supplied. (Question No. 716) ELECTRICITY BLACKOUTS Mr WILKES (Northcote) asked the Assistant Minister of Education: (Question No. 738) Why the Education Department has been Dr COG HILL (Werribee) asked the leasing premises in Gipps Street, Abbotsford, Minister for Minerals and Energy: since December 1975 at an annual rental of Further to the answer to question No. 281 $62 280 yet only partially using them for given on 21 October 1980, in respect of each minor storage purposes and why the original area used for black-out purposes within the departmental file was not produced for audit electoral district of Werribee, what was the inspection? time and duration of each disconnection, indi­ cating the reason for the particularly lengthy Mr LACY (Minister of Educational single disconnection affecting the area of Services)-The answer is: Station Street, Werribee? I, in my capacity as the Minister of Educa­ tional Services, advised the honourable member Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for by letter dated 3 March 1981 that the premises Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: Tuesday 24 june 7.40 a.m.- 9.13 a.m. 1 hr. 33 min. Werribee (part), Laverton (part) 9.05 a.m.-l1.04 a.m. .. I hr. 59 min. Outer Sunshine area 9.05 a.m.- 9.54 a.m. 49 min. 9.05 a.m.-10.08 a.m. .. 1 hr. 03 min. BaYliang N~rth 9.15 a.m.- 9.43 a.m. 28 min. Laverton (part) 9.28 a.m.-lO.06 a.m. 38 min. Little River (part) 10.55 a.m.-12.37 p.m. . . I hr. 42 min. Outer Sunshine area 1.41 p.m.- 3.16p.m. " 1 hr. 35 min. Little River (part) 2.13 p.m.- 4.00 p.m. " I hr. 47 min. Werribee (part), Laverton (part) 4.00 p.m.- 5.03 p.m. .. I hr. 03 min. Wednesday 25 June 8.10 a.m.- 9.14 a.m. .. I hr. 04 min. Melton area, Balliang East 9.47 a.m.-ll.16 a.m. I hr. 29 min. Werribee (part), Laverton (part) 12.18 p.m.- 1.05 p.m. 47 min. Little River (part) 1.01 p.m.- 2.53 p.m. .. 1 hr. 52 min. Werribee (part) 4.15 p.m.- 5.00 p.m. 45 min. Outer Sunshine area 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5657

Thursday 26 June 7.38 a.m.- 9.24 a.m. I hr. 46 min. Werribee, Laverton (part) 9.24 a.m.-l1.06 a.m. I hr. 42 min. Laverton (part) 9.45 a.m.-1O.45 a.m. I hr. Outer Sunshine area 10.52 a.m.-11.l5 a.m. 23 min. Outer Sunshine area 11.06 a.m.- 1.07 p.m. .. 2 hr. 01 min. Werribee, Laverton (part) 1.10 p.m.- 3.12 p.m. .. 2 hr. 02 min. Outer Sunshine area 3.06 p.m.- 5.30 p.m. .. 2 hr. 24 min. Werribee, Laverton (part) 5.00 p.m.- 6.04 p.m. 1 hr. 04 min. Balliang North 5.05 p.m.- 5.50 p.m. 45 min. Laverton and outer Sunshine areas Friday 27 June 10.45 a.m.-12.06 p.m. I hr. 21 in. Little River (part) 12.30 p.m.-12.52 p.m. 22 min. Melton and Balliang East 5.45 p.m.- 6.15 p.m. 30 min. Werribee and Laverton (part)

The longest single disconnection affecting this information not be available on the basis the area of Station Street, Werribee, was of State electoral district boundaries, then on from 3.06 p.m. for two hours and 24 min­ postal district boundaries, classified in terms of utes on Thursday 26 June. the categories of private hospitals, nursing The two-hour maximum time objective was homes, special accommodation houses, boarding extended because of the total load shedding and rooming houses or any other accommoda­ requirement at the end of the period and the tion house requiring such registration? limited availability of switching personnel. Dis­ connections of the same duration were experi­ Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) enced simultaneously by more than 25 per -The answer is: cent of the customers in the Metropolitan The following institutions are registered with Eleotricity Supply Region. the Health Commission and are situated in the The detailed research associated with this postal district of Prahran: question has disclosed additional information Private Hospitals on the timing and number of disconnections The Avenue Private Hospital, 40 The Avenue, on 26 and 27 June 1980 which was not avail­ Windsor able at the time of answering question No. 281. Windermere Private Hospital, 646 High Street, East Prahran INTEREST RATES ON LOANS Private Nursing Homes (Question No. 739) Abbey Lodge, 645 High Street, Armadale Mr GAVIN (Coburg) asked the Minis­ Centennial House (Royal Freemasons' Homes of Victoria), 15 Raleigh Street, Windsor ter for Minerals and Energy: Duretta Private Nursing Home, 60 The In view of the answer to question No. 277 A venue, Windsor given on 21 October 1980, whether he will Lewisham Private Nursing Home, 15 Lewis­ list the number of recent occasions that the ham Road, Windsor State Electricity Commission negotiated loans Wynnstay Private Nursing Home, 21 Wynn­ with interest rates of eighteen per cent or stay Road, Prahran more, and whether he will indicate the highest Hostels interest rate charged to the commission? Presentation Convent (Presentation Sisters), Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for 187 Dandenong Road, Windsor Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: Royal Freemasons' Homes, Punt Road, Prahran Included in the answer to question No. 277 Villa Maria (Villa Maria Society for the given on 21 October 1980 was the statement Blind), Donald Street, Prahran "as the terms of these loans have been offered Montefiore Homes for the Aged (Melbourne by the tenderers on a confidential basis, details Jewish Philanthropic Society), 619 St. Kilda cannot be made public." Road, Melbourne It is more pertinent therefore to answer by Independent Living Units saying that on an "annual average per annum" Masonic Court (Royal Freemasons' Homes basis the State Electricity Commission has of Victoria), Punt Road, Windsor never paid interest rates of eighteen per cent "Glenlock" Homes for the Elderly, High or more. Street, Prahran HEALTH COMMISSION Nursing Homes Villa Q'Neill (Villa Maria Society for the INSTITUTIONS Blind), 101 Lewisham Road, Windsor (Question No. 740) Montefiore Homes for the Aged, 619 St. Kilda Mr MILLER (Prahran) asked the Min­ Road, Melbourne ister of Health: Special Accommodation Houses 54 The A venue, Windsor; 9 Wrexham Road, Whether he will provide a list of institutions Windsor; 13 Wrexham Road" Windsor; registered with the Health Commission situated 5 Irving A venue, Windsor; 507 Orrong in the electoral district of Prahran, or should Road, Armadale; 241 Dandenong Road, 5658 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Windsor; 24 Lewisham Road, Windsor; However, where it comes to the notice of 6 The Avenue, Windsor; 8 The Avenue, the Police that an alteration is made to a Windsor; 558 Orrong Road, Armadale; motor car to increase its horsepower without 300 High Street, Windsor; 215 Dandenong the corresponding adjustments to the brakes. Road, Windsor; 186 Punt Road, Prahran; steering and suspension of the vehicle to 273 Dandenong Road. Windsor. accommodate the additional horsepower, Pol­ ice Department policy requires the registered Boarding houses, common lodging houses and owner of the motor car to have it inspected apartment houses are registered with municipal by a qualified automotive engineer and to ob­ councils. tain from him certification in writing as to the safety of the vehicle as modified. If such certi­ WALHALLA-TYERS ROAD fication is not forthcoming, the motor car may (Question No. 741) be declared unroadworthy. Mr CRABB (Knox) asked the Minister REPORT ON MANUFACTURING IN of Transport: MELBOURNE What action is intended to reclassify and (Question No. 752) reconstruct the Walhalla-Tyers Road? Or COGHILL (Werribee) asked the Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ Minister for State Development, Decen­ port)-The answer is: tralization and Tourism: There are ·no current proposals to re­ In respect of the report "Manufacturing in classify or carry out major reconstruction of Melbourne" submitted to the Melbourne and the Walhalla-Tyers Road. The provision of Metropolitan Board of Works by its Technical funds in the future will depend on the rela­ Advisory .Committee on Manufacturing, what tive priorities of any applications received by action has been taken to implement the recom­ the Country Roads Board from the shires of mendations of the report as they affect the Narracan and Traralgon. and the demands on Laverton North industrial area and other areas road funds generally throughout the State. within the shires of Werribee and Melton. and the cities of Altona and Sunshine? MODIFICATIONS TO CAR ENGINES Mr I. W. SMITH (Minister for (Question No. 746) State Development, Decentralization Dr COGHILL (Werribee) asked the and Tourism)-The answer is: The report, "Manufacturing in Melbourne" Minister for Police and Emergency was an advisory report designed to guide and Services: assist in the future provision and development What controls exist over the modifications of manufacturing activities in the metropolitan which may be made to the engines of motor area. The recommendations of that report as cars, including modifications which increase these apply to land use planning in particular, power and/or affect exhaust emissions. indi­ have been used to assist in the formulation of cating whether vehicles with such modifica­ the recently published Metropolitan Strategy tions may be declared unroadworthy? Report prepared by the Melbourne and Metro­ politan Board of Works. Where applicable, Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police proposals are bein~ included in the Melbourne Metropolitan Planmng Scheme Amendment No. and Emergency Services)-The answer 150 which, inter alia, will provide for statutory is: planning objectives to be included in the Motor cars manufactured on or after 1 July Metropolitan Plannin~ Scheme. These objec­ 1976, must comply with Australian Design tives as provided for In the Town and Country Rule 27 A for exhaust emissions. Any motor Planning Act will provide a basis for the pre­ car manufactured after that date which is paration of Local Development Schemes by driven on the road after being modified so local councils. Councils will thus be in a POSI­ that it no longer complies with the Design tion to take such initiatives as are necessary Rule may be declared to be unroadworthy to support the specific recommendations in under the provisions of the Motor Car Act. the report. "ManufactUring in Melbourne". Moreover, the Environment Protection (Motor Vehicle Emission Control) Regula­ KEON PARK TECHNICAL SCHOOL tions 1976 make it an offence for any person BANK ACCOUNTS to modify .the engine or exhaust system of a motor car so as to increase the rate of emis­ (Question No. 760) sion of exhaust matter or to remove or tamper Mr SIMMONDS (Reservoir) asked the with any emission control device so as to Assistant Minister of Educ'ation, for the render it less effective. Minister of Education: The modification of an engine to increase the horsepower would not in itself render the In respect of banking accounts operated by motor car unroadworthy. provided ·that the Keon Park technical school: brakes, steering and suspension of the modi­ 1. What is the present balance in each fied car were correctly maintained. account? 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5659

2. For what purpose each account is used? Services) -The answer is: 3. What interest payments have accrued on My colleague the Minister of Education ad­ each account? vised the honourable member by letter dated 4. For what purpose the interest was used? 27 February 1981 as follows: "The information requested in 1, 2, 3 and 4 Mr LACY (Minister of Educational is below in tabulated form."

BaIQnc~ Accollnt Pu,pos~ 30.6.80 Int~,est Interest us~d for

$ $ A. New School Council .. For received schools grants and education 1080.00 Nil allowance. B. Maintenance Account.. Receipt and maintenance grant and Nil 136.40 Not specifically dispersed internal school income. Pay salary, wllIes, etc. C. Extraneous Account .. Receives school generated funds. Pays for 60 878.47 3087.63 Interest not dispersed activities not specifically allowed by official accounts. D. State Special Equipment Receives these particular funds from 2520.70 53.21 Interest not dispersed Education Department for purchase of nominated and approved equipment. E. Old Official Account.. Receives parents refund of education ]22.00 Nil allowances. Dispersed as prizes. F. Canteen Account . . Receipts and expenditure for operation of 11 324.68 254.40 Not dispersed canteen. G. Horticulture . . Received from schools commission and 2566.28 187.20 Not dispersed applied to educational program specifically approved by schools commission. H. TA FE Recurrence Particular purpose grants for TAFE 1.16 0.58 Not dispersed Grants activities. I. Bookstall Trust Account Receipts and expenditure for operation of 18.64 33.20 Redirected to extraneous bookstall. account

HOUSE BUILDERS' LIABILITY relationship with persons and companies recog­ nized by them. Unless a builder either explains (Question No. 766) his actions to the satisfaction of an approved guarantor body or complies with directions of Dr COGHILL (Werribee) asked the an approved guarantor body, that builder can M·inister for Minerals and Energy, for be deregistered. the Minister for Local Government: What prosecutions have been launched under IN-HOME MEDICAL ALERT SYSTEMS each sub-section of section 918B of the Local (Question No. 767) Government Act 1958, indicating in respect of each sub-section-(a) the dates of the court Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked proceedings; (b) whether the prosecutions were successful; and (c) the penalties imposed? the Minister of Health: What proposals there are to subsidize Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for personal in-home medical alert systems for the aged and infirm in order that such reople can Minerals and Energy)-The answer remain in the security and comfort 0 their own supplied by the Minister for Local homes? Government is: Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) Prosecutions under the house builders' - The answer is: liability provisions may be launched indepen­ dently of the Local Government Department There is no proposal to subsidize personal and independently of the approved guarantor in-home medical alert systems. bodies. The provisions of the Act have been found by the Honourable Mr Justice King to HEIDELBERG POLICE STATION include the public's prima facie right to prose­ cute, particularly in respect to the provisions (Question No. 769) of section 918s (2). Municipalities are also empowered to prosecute for breaches of the Mr CAIN (Bundoora) asked the Min­ Act. Therefore, I am not in a position to ister for Police and Emergency Services: supply the information sought. Whether two full shifts of police personnel, namely a senior constable or a constable, is In respect to the provisions of the Act which required on six days of each week to operate concern the relationship between builders and the telephone switchboard at the Heidelberg approved guarantor bodies, so far as I know police station; if so, whether he will take steps no prosecutions have been launched. Matters to ensure that switchboard operators are pro­ of this nature concern the approved guarantor vided to enable the police personnel to be bodies responsibilities and liabilities, and their released for police work? 5660 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police ( c) The trial is to be heard by the Supreme Court and is scheduled to commence on 2 and Emergency Services)-The answer March 1981. is: (d) Mr M. R. Lincoln, Crown Prosecutor, Yes. However, it is proposed to install an and Mr G. T. Chettle, Barrister, have been electronic PABX telephone system at the briefed to prosecute the case. Although neither station which will obviate the need to employ gentleman is a Queen's Counsel, they are a telephonist and release the Police personnel eminently qualified for this task. for operational duties. Contract documents for the installation are to be prepared during the HOUSING COMMISSION INTEREST current financial year. RATES, WERRIBEE CONSORTING CHARGES (Question No. 773) (Question No. 770) Dr COGHILL (Werribee) asked the Mr CAIN (Bundoora) asked the Min­ Minister of Housing: Whether new purchasers of Housing Com­ ister for Police and Emergency Services: mission homes at Werribee have been told What is the average age of persons charged that the interest rate applying to their pur­ with consorting under the provisions of section chase contracts will not escalate beyond nine 6 of the Vagrancy Act 1966 over the past two per cent per year; if so-Ca) what is the years? basis of the advice; (b) what Cabinet decisions Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police currently apply; and (c) what limits are and Emergency Services)-The answer specified in new purchase contracts? is: Mr KENNETT (Minister of Housing) The average age of persons charged with -The answer is: consorting under the provisions of section 6 New purchasers of Housing Commission of the Vagrancy Act 1966 during the years houses at Werribee have been told that the 1979 and 1980 (to 14 November 1980) was current interest rate applying to their purchase eighteen years and six months. contracts will rise by yearly escalations of O' 5 per cent until the ceilin~ rate is reached. CHARGES RESULTING FROM Housing Commission officers In the past advised CHERNOV REPORT purchasers that the maximum interest rate would be approximately nine per cent. This (Question No. 772) figure is set out in Clause 4 of a document Mr HANN (Rodney) asked the Minis­ which all purchasers sign when agreeing to purchase their houses at a stated price over ter for Police and Emergency Services: a specified term. Whether any charges have been laid as On 15 October 1979 a maximum interest a result of the Chernov Report; if so-Ca) rate of 8 per cent was set, subject to the how many; (b) what is the name of the findings of an investigation of the Green Paper person or persons charged; (c) when the Housing Policy Review and to renegotiation of charges are scheduled to be heard; and (d) the Commonwealth/State Housing Agreement. whether Queen's Counsel will be briefed by A new ceiling rate was fixed by the Com­ the Law Department in relation to these mission on 13 November 1980 at the com­ charges; if not, why? parable savings bank first mortgage loan rate, Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police which is currently 11· 5 per cent a year. and Emergency Services)-The answer RAILWAY WORKSHOPS' CANTEEN, is: BALLARAT (a) and (b). Mr Leslie Phillip Smart, the former Administrator and Executive Chairman (Question No. 775) of Directors of Co-operative Farmers and Mr CRABB (Knox) asked the Minister Graziers Meat Supplr Ltd, has been served of Transport: with a Notice of Tria in respect of a number of charges laid following the "Chernov Report", In respect of the canteen at the railway as follows: workshops at Ballarat, what was the-Ca) total income; (b) cost of goods; (c) wages; 1. Charges pursuant to the Crimes (Theft) (d) rent; and (e) other costs, in each of the Act 1973- past three years? Larceny as a clerk or servant (four counts). Directors fraudulently appropriating prop­ Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ erty (24 counts). port)-The answer lis: Ballarat workshops canteen 2. Charges pursuant to the Crimes Act 1977-78 1978-79 1979-80 1958- Theft (22 counts). Obtaining property by S S S (a) Total income .. 43626 52381 52919 deception (one count). Obtaining finah­ (b) Cost of goods 29286 36286 36810 cial advantage by deception (two counts). (c) Wages 14368 17047 2S 281 by deception procuring the execution of a (d) Rent .. Nil Nil Nil valuable security (five counts). (e) Other costs 2657 4934 61S3 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5661

GRAIN CARTAGE TO PORTLAND co-operation of school authorities be sought to reduce the excessive consumption of analgesics (Question No. 776) by children and to ensure the close supervision Mr CRABB (Knox) asked the Minister on the issue of analgesics in schools; if so,.w~at of Transport: action is proposed by the Health Commission in conjunction with the Education Department In respect of grain carri-ed to Portland from to carry out those recommendations? the Mortat and Gymbowen sidings, respectively, during this year: Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of He·alth) 1. What weight was carried by road and -The answer is: rail, respectively? Yes. Recent legislation introduced by Victoria 2. What were the average freight charges to severely restrict supply of analgesics to the per tonn-e applicable to each mode? community has followed the recommendations 3. What was the actual cost of road cart­ of the National Health and Medical Research age and rail cartage? Council and is entirely consistent with the re­ Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ commendations of the 90th session. port)-The answer is: The Victorian Railways Board advised me WARNINGS ON ALCOHOL that the figures for 1980 are as follows: CONTAINERS 1. Gymbowen- (Question No. 784) 5693 tonnes moved by road and approximately 6461 tonnes moved by Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the rail the Minister of Health: Mortat- In respect of the suggestion by the National 3167·65 tonnes moved by road and Health Medical Research Council at its 90th approximarely 4064 tonnes is being session that bottles and cans of drinks con­ moved by rail taining alcohol should be labelled with the 2. Gymbowen- advice that alcohol taken by pregnant women Road-$12.28 tonne may be dangerous to the unborn child, whether Rail-$10 . 90 a tonne any steps are proposed by him or ,the Health Mort at- Commission, to put that suggestion into effect Road 178'10 tonnes at $12.06 and in Victoria; if not, why? 2989·55 tonnes at $13.33 Rail-$11 .35 a tonne Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) 3. Gymbowen- -The answer is: Road-$69 904.29 The National Health and Medical Research Rail-Approximately $70424.90 Council at its 90th session, considered the Mortat- subject "Alcohol During Pregnancy" as part of Road-$41 998.58 the report of its Medical Advisory committee, Rail-Approximately $46 126.40 which had discussed Or N. M. Newman's and Professor J. F. Correy's paper, entitled

Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for The first conveyor has been partly com­ missioned with the contractor finalizing the Minerals and Energy) -The answer is: installation and commissioning of the shuttle The State Electricity Commission is not on day shift. Commissioning of the second aware of any restrictions of the circulation conveyor is about to commence. of accountin&_ and financial documents to duly authorized officers. OIL FOR BASE LOAD POWER If the honourable member is prepared to STATIONS supply further details of any instances of (Question No. 794) restrictions regarding the circulation of docu­ ments I will be pleased to provide the appro­ Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ priate information in reply. tion) asked the Minister for Minerals and Energy: STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION Which petroleum companies hold contracts ADVERTISING for supplying the State Electricity Commission (Question No. 792) with fuel oil for base load power stations and from which refineries the feedstock originates? Mr WlLKES (Leader of the Opposi­ Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for tion) asked the Minister for Minerals Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: and Energy: The current contracts for supply of fuel oil Relative to 1978, whether the State Elec­ for commission power stations are for a period tricity Commission during 1980 has reduced its of five years commencing 1 January 1977 with advertising of appliances which use off-peak an optional three months' extension. electricity; if so, whether this was done be· Esso Australia Ltd holds the contract for cause of the tight supply situation during supply to the metropolitan stations, Newport, nights when base-load power is used to re­ Richmond and Spencer Street). The oil sup­ charge pumped storages in the Snowy plied by this company is processed at the PRA Mountains? Refinery, Altona. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for The contract for supply of fuel oil to Latrobe Minerals and Energy) -The answer is: Valey stations (Yallourn Wand Morwell) is There has been no advertising of any elec­ held by Total Australia Ltd. This oil is gen­ trical appliance in the media by the State erally supplied through the British Petroleum Refinery at Crib-~t, with "back-up" supply Electricity Commission of Victoria since 1975. through the Shell Refinery at Corio. The restrain on advertising at this time was entirely due to the desire of the Government LOY YANG PROJECT COSTS for the errergy authorities to cease growth (Question No. 796) oriented advertising and had nothing to do with the energy supply situation to which Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ the honourable member refer·s. tion) asked the Minister for Minerals and Energy: COAL BUNKERS, YALLOURN To what extent design changes by the State (Question No. 793) Electricity Commission has contributed to the escalation of project costs since work began Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ on the Loy Yang power station? tion) asked the Minister for Minerals Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for and Energy: Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: 1. Whether Ascom Pty Ltd is the principal The cost of design changes (i.e. modifica­ contractor for the coal bunkers at Yallourn tions and some new works) from conception W3 and W4? of the project to final deSign, as assessed at 2. Whether there has been a delar in com­ June 1980, is approximately 10 per cent of missioning this part of the project; i so, what the estimated project cost. are the causes of the delay? Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: GENERATOR UNITS (Question No. 797) 1 and 2. Ascom Pty Ltd currently have a contract for the installation of two conveyors Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ into the raw coal bunker at Yalloum. Delays tion) asked the Minister for Minerals in completing the system are mainly the result of industrial problems. In particular, a demar­ and Energy: cation dispute between the Amalgamatel Metal Which generator units in the State Electricity Workers and Shipwrights' Union and the Commission system have been shut down over Plumbers and Gasfitters Employees' Union of the past five financial years for reasons other Australia caused seven months' delay and than planned maintenance or industrial dispu­ other disputes have caused some five months' tation, indicating in each case the date and delay. time spent out of service? 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5663

Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: Ya/lourn E2 Unit Period/rom Period The attached statistics detail outages affect- DD MM YY Hour! ing major generating units. The figures in 8 6 79 113'1 parentheses indicate outages which extended 4 7 79 0'7 from one month to another. 5 7 79 4iS'l 27 7 79 99'7 When considering the list of generator out- 16 11 79 86'9 ages, the following matters should be kept 2J 11 79 80·J 28 11 79 {Sl'7} in mind in order that the figures may be 1 12 79 17'5 considered in their correct perspective: 4 12 79 0'9 26 3 80 3'3 27 3 80 14'8 Victorian brown coals used for power genera- 28 3 80 0'3 tion range in moisture content from 60 per I 4 80 65·7 cent to 68 per cent water and this makes them 18 4 80 46·7 29 4 80 28· I the highest moisture content coals used on a I 5 80 55'1 large scale in the world. Such high moisture I 6 80 6'9 contents keep the commission in the forefront 2 6 80 1'3 of world development. This is especially the case in relation to the size of boiler plant and auxiliaries and has involved considerable devel- opment of the only large auxiliary plant avail- able for brown coal firing. Yallourn WI Unit Yallourn W2 Unit Much of Victoria's brown coal is also classed Pt'riod/rom Pt'riod Period/rom Period as moderately high fouling fuel and, until the DD MM YY Hours DD MM YY Hours oil crisis, most parts of the world had avoided 7 7 75 0·. I 7 75 13'0 the development of such fuels. Thus the com- 11 11 75 480'0 8 9 75 332'4 mission was re3uired to develo~ its own 7 I 76 I'. 28 9 75 25'0 methods of hand ing such fuels. he actions 9 I 76 1'7 9 10 75 1'8 17 I 76 91'2 11 10 75 4·5 which have been necessary to kees boilers in 6 3 76 64'8 12 10 75 2'5 service with these fuels, couple with the 17 5 76 59'3 13 )0 75 3·. limitations of boiler design technology 20 to 15 7 76 171'3 I 11 75 9·2 J 11 76 3'5 9 2 76 19·2 25 years ago to handle such fuels, has under- 14 11 76 0'2 9 2 76 25'1 standably caused problems. 17 11 76 0'2 29 2 76 19'9 3 12 76 J673'S1 I 3 76 .2'0 In spite of the' unique nature of Victoria's I I 77 9 3 76 39'9 I 2 77 ~~:g ~ 11 3 76 .2·8 fuels and the extent of in-house development 1 J 71 L 702'0 J 9 1 76 4'7 which has been required to be undertaken, the 5 4 71 1'0 15 8 76 105·6 commission achieves plant performances very 5 77 71'0 28 9 76 8 •4 71 13'0 30 11 76 comparable with those achieved by black coal- 12 4 77 20'0 I 12 76 144'0~:g} ) { fired plants of similar age and output in the 28 4 71 1·2 I 71 744'0 other Australian States. 18 5 71 286·. I 2 77 672'0 14 11 71 20'6 ) 3 77 206'0 4 I 78 256'5 IS 4 71 2'0 Forced Outages, July 1975-June 1980 IS I 78 63'8 18 4 71 1'5 18 I 78 2'3 7 11 77 21'7 Yallourn El Unit Yallourn E2 Unit 18 I 78 {3204'7} 8 11 77 375'8 Period/rom Period Pt'riod/rom Per;()(/ I 2 78 652'7 1 12 77 58'1 DD MM YY Hours DD MM YY Hours 11 3 78 42'1 8 2 78 .'9 15 4 78 337'5 11 2 78 14·7 7 10 75 209·7 6 7 75 64'7 4 5 78 109'8 9 4 78 323'7 19 11 75 121'8 26 7 75 43'3 8 6 78 16'3 29 5 78 2'1 8 5 76 49'4 2 10 75 67'0 27 6 78 14,) 28 7 78 { 75'8} 25 9 76 34·9 5 10 75 170'7 5 7 78 0·8 I 8 78 416·' 18 10 76 179·2 24 10 75 51'9 27 7 78 1'0 18 8 78 11'6 29 10 76 61'5 22 12 75 24'5 28 7 78 {84'0} I 9 18 ]-4'3 19 12 76 20'8 23 12 75 9'1 1 8 78 0'5 21 9 78 0'8 26 2 77 40·3 4 1 76 151'9 10 8 78 50'3 5 10 78 3,3 46,2 28 2 77 {20'0} )7 4 76 11'7 I 9 78 551'5 28 10 78 I 3 77 44·5 10 7 76 20'8 2 10 78 58'8 8 11 78 7.'7 26 10 71 64·' 3 9 76 177'9 23 10 78 8'4 11 11 78 68'9 23 29 10 77 {72'0} 17 9 76 84'5 I 11 78 4'3 11 78 52'0 1 11 77 33'5 19 11 76 80'8 4 I 79 5'8 18 3 79 92'3 2 11 77 79'3 3 12 76 44'2 5 1 79 89'9 28 3 79 74'4 14 11 77 5·7 12 12 76 62'0 8 I 79 12'3 5 6 79 43'7 14 JI 77 37'7 27 12 76 62'0 9 1 79 9'2 28 10 79 0'2 23 11 77 41·3 22 2 77 10'8 9 1 79 10'6 13 11 79 IO 24 12 77 45·4 11 4 77 \S'1 12 1 79 40·6 I 12 79 144'0 16 7 78 59'8 14 5 77 29'9 20 2 79 6·3 I 1 80 744'0'» ] I 2 80 r51'1 J 29 7 78 "'2 21 5 77 48·9 21 79 207'0 25 8 78 0'5 26 5 77 0·3 24 5 79 145·3 3 2 80 3'9 27 9 78 96'0 I 8 77 85'2 22 10 79 101'9 9 2 80 42'9 30 12 78 { 46'0} 25 8 77 "'9 IS I 80 {392'7} 7 3 80 147'1 I I 79 143'0 28 8 77 96'0 I 2 80 550,] is 3 80 5'3 I 4 79 39'8 11 2 78 44'7 24 2 80 3'1 31 3 80 5'1 I 7 79 25'2 12 3 78 9·6 29 2 80 {23'6} I 4 80 88'7 4 11 79 16·6 31 5 78 4·1 I 3 80 31'0 24 12 79 150'9 23 7 78 16'5 20 J 80 81'4 1 4 80 ]25'1 10 11 78 74,] 18 80 67'4 28 6 80 0·7 29 1 79 { 59'6} 28 •6 80 51'1 1 2 79 127'~ 5664 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Forced Outages, July 1975-June 1980-cont. Haze/wood 3 Unit Haze/wood 5 Unit Hau/wood 1 Unit Haze/wood 2 Unit Period/rom Period Period/rom Period DD MM yy Hours DD MM yy Hours Period/rom Period Period/rom Period DD MM yy Hours DD MM yy Hours 18 5 77 0·1 10 4 78 65·7 18 5 77 0·7 9 5 78 19'5 3 2 76 40·8 1 7 75 610·0 21 5 77 102· I 2 6 78 29·8 8 2 76 21·9 26 7 75 21 ·5 3 9 77 329·4 29 6 78 19 2 76 90'0 2 8 75 {700'2} 2 12 77 39·3 I 7 78 43·9 16 6 76 192'3 1 9 75 46'1 I 3 78 113·0 30 7 78 29·9380~ 26 6 76 99'9 4 11 75 1·3 19 5 78 25·7 1 8 78 25·0 1 7 76 48·0 5 )) 75 43·4 25 5 78 32· I 31 10 78 11'1 9 7 76 14·1 25 4 76 57'3 26 5 78 116·0 I It 78 95·8 19 8 76 41'0 28 4 76 41'9 31 5 78 8·0 26 12 78 ~ 72·4 1 10 76 3'4 30 4 76 16'0} I 6 78 50·3 18 3 79 65·2 1 10 76 103'8 1 5 76 J696'0 14 11 78 31·0 2 7 79 34·1 21 )) 76 40·7 I 6 76 l213'9 7 12 78 188'1 13 8 79 24'0 23 11 76 1·9 3 7 76 95'5 29 5 79 5·3 8 It 79 135'7 5 3 77 140'0 24 8 76 0'7 24 6 79 30·5 18 1 80 6·0 11 3 77 1'0 24 8 76 0'7 26 7 79 121·7 27 2 80 33·6 11 3 77 3'7 28 8 76 4·7 I 8 79 46'5 26 3 80 50·4 15 3 77 71·7 10 9 76 55·2 4 8 79 48·0 7 4 80 114'2 18 3 77 3 '1 14 9 76 355 ·8 6 8 79 32·0 6 5 77 56'4 28 12 76 { 88'3} 9 8 79 133'7 14 5 77 95'8 1 1 77 5·4 29 8 79 0·3 25 5 77 29'6 7 I 77 32·5 8 9 79 24'0 31 8 77 { 12'7} 18 5 77 42·1 1 12 79 42·1 1 9 77 720'0 24 8 77 44·9 13 3 80 54·5 1 10 77 690'8 26 10 77 41·7 28 6 80 5·0 4 11 77 42'9 28 10 77 28·4 6 11 77 74'5 22 2 78 0·2 29 12 77 31'4 29 3 78 { 49'2} 16 1 78 37·8 1 4 78 22·3 Haze/wood 4 Unit Haze/wood 4 Unit 21 1 78 56·7 19 4 78 39·4 Period from Period Period/rom Period 25 2 78 63'5 3 7 78 7·1 DD MM yy Hours DD MM yy Hours 2 8 78 221'8 30 7 78 21'1 11 8 78 55·8 31 7 78 5·3 6 9 75 84·8 7 7 78 221'5 23 8 78 0'9 20 8 78 33· 3 14 9 75 44·5 17 8 78 71'7 1 10 78 24·0 20 10 78 57·1 11 10 75 235'2 25 8 78 62'9 19 1 79 12·4 7 3 79 49·4 24 10 75 150'0 18 10 78 13'8 16 2 79 73'3 9 3 79 32'4 11 11 75 57·1 25 10 78 33'0 1 3 79 205'7 5 4 79 168'1 14 12 75 12·4 27 10 78 27'3 23 3 79 110'1 24 4 79 { 150'9} 9 1 76 58·8 10 1 79 102'1 13 4 79 191'9 1 5 79 226·7 23 2 76 153·3 15 1 79 (329'9) 4 5 79 36·8 16 10 79 48'3 1 3 76 143'9 29 1 79 ( 63 '6) 9 7 79 59·6 It 12 79 40'4 29 3 76 68·0 1 2 79 0'1 26 8 79 76'3 21 12 79 33'4 1 4 76 72·0 7 2 79 16'5 13 9 79 161'2 31 3 80 { 21'8} 18 4 76 108·3 19 2 79 83·4 11 10 79 89·2 1 4 80 5·4 3 5 76 0·3 26 3 79 10'9 22 10 79 81'7 30 4 80 21·3 6 5 76 45'8 18 4 79 272'5 26 10 79 68'5 1 5 80 48·9 22 5 76 40'3 29 4 79 32·0 8 12 79 35'2 3 5 80 107'8 25 5 76 63'7 1 5 79 218·4 3 I 80 54'2 18 5 80 19·8 8 6 76 55·8 10 5 79 132'7 8 1 80 80'9 3 6 80 120·0 10 7 76 59'2 30 5 79 0·4 6 2 80 113· 3 8 6 80 66·0 12 8 76 235'1 31 5 79 ( 14'9) 11 2 80 43'5 14 6 80 68·1 16 2 77 24'5 1 6 79 (720'0) 13 2 80 3'0 17 2 77 26·4 1 7 79 (260'2) 25 2 80 78'3 4 4 77 1·5 20 7 79 64'8 13 3 80 27·6 25 4 77 54'0 19 9 79 83'4 17 3 80 216'5 12 8 77 (461'1) 2 10 79 47·4 26 3 80 142'6 1 9 77 (720,0) 27 It 79 12'0 1 4 80 430'6 1 10 77 (424'8) 28 Ii 79 ( 62'0) 22 4 80 {216'1} 21 10 77 111'2 1 12 79 (124'7) 1 5 80 27'6 10 12 77 17· 3 21 12 79 30'1 16 6 80 8'0 18 12 77 16·8 2 1 80 27'9 4 2 78 11'0 17 1 80 62'1 14 2 78 16·1 20 1 80 45'7 26 2 78 56·6 Haze/wood 3 Unit Haze/wood 5 Unit 6 2 80 48'0 1 3 78 31·7 8 2 80 77'7 Period/rom Period Period/rom Period 16 3 78 (369' 3) 12 2 80 14·0 DD MM yy Hours DD MM YY Hours 1 4 78 (449'8) 6 3 80 62'6 28 4 78 46·5 9 3 80 56·7 21 7 75 64'8 19 19 5 78 0·3 13 3 80 27'9 9 75 19'5 14 6 78 III ·4 24 7 75 0'4 21 10 75 160'1 20 3 80 11'4 4 8 75 13·6 22 1 76 72'4 19 9 75 40'0 8 2 76 114'5 Haze/wood 6 Unit 30 9 75 14'0} 19 6 76 88'0 Haze/wood 6 Unit 1 10 75 { 26'7 3 Period/rom Period Period/rom Period 10 76 55-1 DD MM 17 11 75 58-4 6 10 76 111'7 YY Hours DD MM YY Hours 4 12 75 22'0 17 10 76 176-6 11 12 75 500-6 7 30 to 76 { 25'7} 9 75 19·7 1 4 79 ( 24·1) 31 12 75 2-4 1 11 76 25·9 22 9 75 49·2 2 4 79 88-7 3 1 76 35·9 7 11 76 94'7 4 2 76 14'8 16 5 79 196-2 11 4 76 20·2 22 5 77 36-2 2 3 76 1·0 26 6 79 9'9 3 10 76 56-1 J9 10 77 219-5 2 5 76 2·7 31 7 79 ( 20- 5) 22 10 76 53·9 4 11 77 37'6 5 7 76 32'6 1 8 79 ( 40-1) 19 11 76 52-1 14 11 77 81-8 16 10 76 127·8 18 10 79 45-0 26 11 76 {100'0} 20 11 77 39'9 18 2 77 56-9 20 10 79 280-3 1 12 76 22-9 21 12 77 1-2 2 12 77 81'5 1 11 79 26-6 1 12 76 3'7 1 1 78 104'5 20 2 78 53·7 9 12 79 (542-0) 14 1 77 54-9 16 1 78 253-9 1 3 78 44·6 1 1 80 (720'0) 12 2 77 22-7 10 2 78 55'0 4 1 79 0'3 3 2 80 (167-7) Jl 3 77 313'6 27 2 78 30'5 24 3 79 28'3 3 3 80 55'6 13 5 77 104'7 1 3 78 46'4 31 3 79 ( 18·1) 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 566~

where there has been no change in either the Haze/wood 7 Unit Haze/wood 7 Unit Period from Period Period from Period nature of the work or the circumstances under DD MM YY Hours DD MM YY Hours which the work is to be performed; therefore, no increases of this nature have contributed 13 7 75 0·6 21 7 78 0·4 towards the escalation of project costs of the 5 8 75 226'8 8 8 78 202·9 Loy Yang power station. 16 8 75 9·6 15 10 78 0·8 26 10 75 26·3 7 12 78 4'8 4 11 75 2'5 19 12 78 58'6 14 11 75 32'3 12 2 79 394'2 14 12 75 19·8 I 3 79 33'8 25 I 76 0'3 6 4 79 11·0 STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION 29 1 76 0·3 7 4 79 120'0 29 1 76 0·4 12 4 79 19·2 COMPUTER SIMULATION STUDIES 4 9 76 97·2 10 6 79 5·6 5 11 76 54'5 25 6 79 40·6 (Question No. 799) 7 12 76 11·1 7 10 79 12·0 25 2 77 74·9 7 10 79 96·0 28 4 77 ( 51· 3) 11 10 79 183·6 Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ I 5 77 ( 23·1) 11 I I 79 49·4 16 8 77 343'4 13 11 79 24·0 t~on) asked the Minister for Minerals 5 11 77 41'3 14 11 79 24·0 6 2 78 43·6 I 12 79 0·3 and Energy: 14 7 78 I 12 79 27'8 159'0 Whether he will make available the results of State Electricity Commission computer simu­ lation studies of ,the effect on unit costs of electricity of adding-(a) Loy Lang power Haze/wood 8 Unit Haze/wood 8 Unit station; (b) the Alcoa project at Portland; Period from Period Period from Period and (c) both enterprises to the interconnected DD MM YY Hours DD MM YY Hours system?

7 7 75 184'5 10 11 77 0-9 Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for 15 7 75 23'1 15 I 78 106·9 4 8 75 5'5 23 5 78 23·2 Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: 3 10 75 9·3 26 5 78 60-6 13 12 75 17·1 27 8 78 2-3 The State Electricity Commission carries out 5 2 76 56·3 I3 10 78 71·1 24 2 76 30'5 14 11 78 47·9 many computer simulations relating capital and 21 3 76 19'0 26 12 78 (131,9) operational spending to borrowings and reve­ 21 3 76 13·8 I I 79 (128,9) 23 3 76 50'3 28 I 79 53-0 nue. The commission also calculates from time 25 3 76 14·4 31 I 79 ( 12-0) to time the average unit cost of electricity 6 5 76 1·2 I 2 79 ( 69-0) production from each of its operational power 7 5 76 111·8 JI 2 79 65'0 12 5 76 433·8 5 3 79 75-3 stations, from all operational stations collec­ 30 5 76 3·5 24 3 79 191-5 tively, and from future generation using esti­ 7 6 76 29·6 I 4 79 96-2 20 7 76 40·3 .5 4 79 87-2 mates of likely plant output, fall of capital 24 8 76 53·0 18 5 79 0-6 and operational expendi,tures. 23 11 76 40·4 21 5 79 0-7 25 11 76 144'0 6 6 79 118-5 The honourable member will appreciate that 9 I 77 16-4 19 6 79 25-4 13 1 77 (448'3) 19 9 79 0·3 such costs are dynamic, changing with plant I 2 77 (672-0) 23 9 79 52'6 availability, water inflows, the industrial situ­ 1377 (744'0) 13 I 80 18'4 I 4 77 (720-0) 31 3 80 11'6 ation, the timing of new plant additions, and 1 5 77 (744-0) 2 4 80 4'8 so on. Such costs quoted out of the context 20 9 77 33·1 13 4 80 14'7 24 9 77 16-2 28 6 80 2·0 in which they are developed can be quite mis­ 21 10 77 112'1 leading. I do not propose, therefore, to make available the results of such studies or cal­ culations. LOY YANG PROJECT COSTS (Question No. 798) Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ LATROBE VALLEY INDUSTRIAL tion) asked the Minister for Minerals DISPUTES and Energy: (Questtion No. BOO) To what extent .increases in individual rates per unit quantity, made at the request of prin­ Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ cipal contractors, have contributed to the tion) asked the Minister for Minerals escalation of project costs since work began and Energy: on the Loy Yang power station? How many industrial disputes in the Latrobe Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Valley causing loss of working time have Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: occurred during the past five financial years, There have been no instances where the indicating in each case the date, man-hours commission has modified the contract sum at lost, duration, trade unions involved, and the request of the contractor in circumstances reasonss 5666 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Minerals and Energy) -The answer is: The information requested by the honourable member is as follows:

Total Man-hours Nos. of Trade Unions Date Lost Employees Involved Reasons 1976-77 2-7-75 4471 1711 Metal Trades Unions National stop work meetings of Metal Trades to consider action on wafe claim 18-7-75 27256 3407 All Unions Withdrawalo State Incremental Payments Scheme payments at the Geelong Harbour Trust 18-7-75 376 47 FED&FA(1) Protest over staff employees carrying out wages employee work 13-8-75 52 15 AMW&SU(2) Protest against refusal to appoint a Leading Hand over two men 21-8-75 7 2 FED&FA(1) Refusal to allow study leave 3-9-75 470 235 Metal Trades Unions Central Gippsland Trades and Labour Council meeting regarding Yallourn township demolition 23-9-75 58 67 S&PU(3) Manning levels and relief of staff posts 24-10-75 140 17 FIA(4) Reprimand of employee 23 to 28- 4044 337 ASE(5), AMW &SU(2), Series of stop work meetings 10-75 ETU(6), FED&FA(l), FIA(4), over a dismissed AMW &SU FMU(7) employee 29-10-75 171 49 ASC&J(8), BWIU(9) Claim for Metal Trades experience payments 30-10-75 180 58 AMW&SU(2) Protest over fitters carrying out boilermakers' work 14-11-75 140 46 AMW &SU(2), OP&DU(10). Rally in support of ALP ABCE&BLF(11) 2S-11-75 7 15 ABCE&BLF(11 ) Meeting with organiser 8-12-75 25 51 FIA(4) Rostering and logging of overtime 17-12-75 157 45 AMW&SU(2) Workers' Compensation make- up of pay 27-2-76 18 16 AMW&SU(2) Composite work crews 3 to 4- 336 21 FIA(4) Demarcation with carpenters 3-76 over erection of scaffolding 11 to 17~) 1090 33 AMW&SU(2) Refusal by fitters to accept 3-76 a boilermaking supervisor in composite work gangs 17-3-76 339 133 ASC&J(8), BWIU(9), Stop work meeting to discuss ABCE&BLF(11), OP&DU(lO), SEC attitude regarding incor- VOBS(12) poration of Building Trade in the National Building Construction A ward 24-3-76 32 64 AMW&SU(2), FlA(4) Extended lunchtime meeting to )jft work bans associated with workshop cleaning 2-4-76 22 44 FIA(4), AMW &SU(2), Meeting to discuss dissatis- FED&FA(1), S&PU(3) faction with overtime roster 12-4-76 744 93 FlA(4) Protest over lack of progress on claim for reclassification of Trades Assistants in mill maintenance gangs 14-4-76 1'25 5 MOA(3) Stop work meeting to discuss MOA proposal to restructure and reclassi~ Casualty Officers 14-4-76 3 12 TWU(14) Meeting to iscuss inaction on requests for increased manning 18-S-76 4101 1688 All Wages Unions except Stop work meeting regarding AWU(15) and FED&FA(1) 35-hour week claim 16-6-76 11103 2455 All Unions except FED&FA(l) Victorian Trades Hall Council direction over Medibank issue 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5667

Total Man-hours Nos. of Trade Unions Date Lost Employees Involved Reasons

30-6-76 22280 2785 All Unions Victorian Trades Hall Council Medibank issue 12-7-76 27128 3391 All Unions Victorian Trades Hall Council direction over Medibank 26 to 27- 50784 3174 All Wages Unions 48-hour stoppage, 35-hour 8-76 week claim 1975-76 30-8-76 3150 90 AMW &SU(2), FIA(4) Dispute over mobilisation of labour 16-9-76 1 2 FlA(4) Manning levels during absences 29-9-76 5 5 MOA(l3) Refusal to reclassify Payrolls Clerk 14 to 15- 88 96 FIA(4), AMW&SU(2) Ratio of trades assistants to 10-76 tradesmen 21 to 22- 168 33 FIA(4) Demarcation protest over 10-76 boilermakers carrying out riggers' work 3-11-76 15 30 FIA(4) Extended lunchtime meeting to discuss allocation and recording of overtime 4 to 22- 13195 158 BWIU(9), ASC&J(8), OP&DU(10) Protest at exclusion of SEC 11-76 employees from National Building Trades Construction Award 11-11-76 30 30 P&GFU(16) Extended lunchtime meeting over request for inclusion under "Construction on Site" new Part 1 Plumber's Determin- ation 18-11-76 40 81 ABCE&BLF(11 ) Stop work meeting to discuss imposing bans in support of Log of Claims 25-11-76 28 14 ETU(6) Stop work meeting to discuss claim for allowance for authorised recipients 6 to 9- 833 28 FlA(4) Demarcation dispute over use 12-76 of pendant cranes 10-12-76 47 19 AMW&SU(2), MOA(l3) Dispute over supervision of staff classifications 13-12-76 6 11 FIA(4) Request by management to transfer riggers temporarily to different locations 21-1-77 17 17 A MW&SU(2) Demarcation dispute between boilermakers and mechanical fitters 24-1-77 14 19 A MW&SU(2) ditto 14-2-77 492 197 OP&DU(10), ABCE&BLF(1l), Stoppage in support of Building ASC&J(8) Trades National Log of Claims 17 to 18- 1399 1146 AMW&SU(2), FIA(4), Shop stewards denied unpaid 3-77 FED&FA(1), TWU(J4), ETU(6) leave 24-3-77 6 5 AMW&SU(2), FIA(4) Meeting to discuss problems with shop steward 25-3-77 4206 1797 All Wages Unions Mass meeting called by Central Gippsland Trades and Labour Council regarding Log of Claims 4to 5- 140 62 AMW&SU(2), FIA(4) Overtime distribution disput. 4-77 5-4-77 122 35 AMW&SU(2) Protest over workshop amenities 17-5-77 63 93 S&PU(3) Stop work meeting to discuss local issues 25-5-77 9 19 FIA(4) Demarcation dispute regarding contractors working on Stale 1 plant, Yalloum W power station 5668 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Total Man-hours Nos. of Trade Unions Date Lost Employees Involved Reasons

7-6-77 2 9 TWU(l4) Dissatisfaction by fitters over arrangements regarding trans- porting gear to job locations 15-6-77 4195 1764 All Wages Unions Central Gippsland Trades and Labour Council mass meeting regarding Log of Claims 22-6-77 33 19 MWU(17) SEC rates for contract cleaning work 1977-78 24-6-77 320 40 MWU(J7) ditto 1 to 8- 967 32 MWU(17) Maintenance of present man- 7-77 ning levels 6-7-77 3174 1839 All Wages Unions Central Gippsland Trades and Labour Council Log of Claims 3-8-77 9 6 ABCE&BLF(ll) Log of Claims 5-8-77 10 6 ABCE&BLF( J 1) Log of Claims 9 to 25- 955000 2395 AMW&SU, ASE(5), ETU(6), Latrobe Valley maintenance 8-77, pm FIA(4), FMU(7), VBEF(J8), workers strike over Log of 26-8-77, BWIU (9), ASC&J(8), Claims on wages and conditions 41-8 to ABCE&BLF(11), VPS(l9), 13-10-77, ATWU(20) 18 to 25- 10-77 4-11-77 29 13 FIA(4) Amenities 8-11-77 16 16 AMW&SU(2) Temporary shift work 14-12-77 6 23 FIA(4) Election of shop steward 20-3-78 4 6 FED&FA(I) Strike after "no work-no pay" issue over Gippsland cement ban 6-4-78 5075 2045 AMW&SU(2), ASE(5), ETU(6), To discuss decision of FIA(4), FMU(7), VBEF(18), Commissioner Mansini BWIU(9), ASC&J(8), ABCE&BLF(ll), VPS(19) ATWU(20) 17-4-78 9 36 AMW&SU(2) Election of shop steward 4to 5- 874 76 AMW&SU(2), FIA(4) Crib room facilities 5-78 30-5-78 224 28 P&GFEU(16) State Government attitudes at State Wages Board hearings 1978-79 20-7-78 95 95 AMW&SU(2) Demarcation with fitters and boilermakers over cutting of bolts to destruction 4-8-78 352 352 AMW&SU(2) Demarcation over new gang working in Morwell open cut. 7-8-78 416 416 AMW&SU(2) ditto 8-8-78 78 78 AMW&SU(2) ditto 23 to 25- 744 31 P&GFEU(l6) Protest over delay in handing 8-78 down State Wages Board decision on pay claim 29-8-78 791 226 AMW&SU(2), FIA(4) Protest over SECV handling of contract work negotiations (Latrobe Valley capital works) 8-9-78 126 31 P&GFEU(16) State Wages Board hearing of pay claim 1-9-78 164 47 S&PU(3) Staff supervision 5 to 7- 1958 89 S&PU(3) Manning levels and job 9-78 security 26-9-78 201 161 OP&DU(lO), BWIU(9), Report on progress of ASC&J(8) Commissioner Vosti's SEC Building Trades Award 3-10-78 189 84 FED&FA(1) Demarcation on crane drivi ng with BLF at Yallourn W construction site 17-10-78 70 20 ETU(6) Safety procedures on issue of permits 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5669

Total Man-hours Nos. of Trade Unions Date Lost Employees Involved Reasons

23-10-78 101 31 P&GFEU(l6) State Wages Board work value decision 2-11-78 2568 744 AMW&SU(2), ASE(5), ETU(6), Protest over Prime Minister's FIA(4), ABCE&BLF(11), visit to Latrobe Valley TWU(14), FED&FA(l), ASC&J(8), BWIU(9), OP&DU(lO), S&PU(3), VBEF(18) 9-11-78 119 34 AMW&SU(2), FIA(4) Cleaning of boilermaker crib room by trades assistants 10-11-78 272 34 AMW &SU(i), FIA(4) ditto 4-12-78 560 160 ASC&J(8), BWIU(9), OP&DU(10) Protest over SEC appeal on Commissioner Vosti's Building Trades Award 7-12-78 75 30 P&GFEU(l6) Placement of bans in support of claim before State Wages Board 5-1-79 55 55 S&PU(3) Manning levels and use of trainees 18-1-79 26 52 AMW &SU(2), FIA(4) Appointments of Leading Hands 23-1-79 3005 2003 AMW&SU(2), ASE(5), FIA(4), Mass meeting of maintenance ETU(6), FED&FA(l), workers Building Trades ABCE&BLF(ll), BWIU(9), Appeal ASC&J(8), P&GFEU(l6), ATWU(20) 25-1-79 27 36 FIA(4) Overtime rosters 1-2-79 23 46 FIA(4) Temporary shift work rosters 22-2-79 4119 1942 AMW&SU(2), ASE(5), ETU(6), Report on progress of SEC FIA(4), BWIU(9), ASC&J(8), Building Trades Award OP&DU(lO), P&GFEU(l6) 6to 7- 830 139 AMW&SU(2), FIA(4), ASE(5) Contract work being carried 3-79 out on operations area at YalIoum W 7-3-79 78 26 P&GFEU(l6) Dismissal of plumbers in metropolitan area 15 to 16- 1492 184 TWU(14) Support of $8 per week "flow- 3-79 on" claim 22 to 23- 1448 181 TWU(14) ditto 3-79 30-3 to 4512 185 TWU(14) Support of claim for 58 per 4-4-79 week "flow-on" 11 to 23- 845 23 FED&FA(1) Claim for a 1 x 7 shift in day 4-79 gang at Morwell open cut 2-5-79 636 88 ABCE&BLF(lI) National 24-hour stoppage over Log of Claims 15-5-79 42 14 FED&FA(1) Reclassification claim for boiler cleaners 16 to 17- 25 3 AIMPE(21) Claim by Assistant Unit 5-79 Controllers at Hazelwood power station for reclassi- fication to Fuel Distribution Officer 5670 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Total Man-hours Nos. 0/ Trade Unions Date Lost Employees Involved Reasol1s

17-5-79 208 139 BWIU(9), ASC&J(8), OP&DU(lO) To remove ban placed over Building Trades Award appeal 18-5-79 33 33 FIA(4) To discuss temporary transfer of riggers in Latrobe Valley area 29-5-79 42 14 FED&FA(1) Reclassification claim for boiler cleaners 1-6-79 26 11 FED&FA(l) ditto 1 to 2- 612 76 FED&FA(l) Amenities on dredgers 6-79 5-6-79 81 27 FED&FA(1) Claim for 1 x 7 shift in day gang, Morwell open cut 14-6-79 165 47 AMW&SU(2) Unsafe conditions in workshop and crib room at Hazelwood power station 21-6-79 35280 4410 All Staff and Wages Unions except Protest over West Australian APEA(22) public meetings dispute 22-6-79 5445 2178 AMW &SU(2), ASE(5), FIA(4), Log of Claims by Metal Trades ETU(6) Workers 26 to 27- 95 19 FED&FA(I) Failure of organiser to arrive 6-79 for inspections relating to claim of 1 x 7 shift in Morwell open cut 1979-80 27-4-79 5602 2241 AMW&SU(2), ETU(6), FIA(4), Metal Trades Log of Claims ASE(5) 12 to 13- 35859 2241 AMW&SU(2), ETU(6), FIA(4), Metal Trades Log of Claims 7-79 ASE(5) 16-7-79 85 57 FED&FA(I) Limited stop work meeting over Log of Claims 31-7-79 222 89 ABCE&BLF(II) Report on progress of new SECV Award 30-7 to 604 31 P&GFEU(16) Claim for construction rates 1-8-79 of pay 2-8-79 825 314 FED&FA(1) Log of Claims 7-8-79 974 365 FED&FA(1) ditto 22-8-79 4476 1790 AMW &SU(2), ASE(5), ETU(6), Metal Trades Log of Claims FIA(4) 29-8-79 2010 1598 AMW&SU(2), ASE(5), ETU(6), ditto FIA(4) 4-9-79 3 7 FED&FA(I) Crib break on overburden dredger 14-9-79 7919 1944 AMW &SU(2), ASE(5), FIA(4), Metal Trades 35-hour per ETU(6) campaign 25-9-79 3774 1887 AMW&SU(2), ASE(5), FIA(4), Metal Trades Log of Claims ETU(6) 12 to 15- 5700 200 ETU(6), AMW&SU(2), ASE(5), Protest over new access road 11-79 FIA(4) to Yallourn works area ]0 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5671

Total Man-hours Nos. of Trade Unions Date Lost Employees Involved Reasons

13-11-79 374 65 FIA(4) ditto 14-11-79 390 65 FIA(4) Demarcation dispute with ETU over work being done while FIA supported Yallourn access protest 20-11-79 3038 1957 Most Wages Unions Workers' Compensation legis- lation protest 5-12-79 225 315 AMW &SU(2), ASE(5), FIA(4) Temporary shift work dispute 11-12-79 27 27 FED&FA(I) Manning of outloading station and dredgers at Morwell open cut 9-1-80 442 57 FED&FA(1) Stoppage as a result of Com- missioner Turbet's decision not to reclassify boiler cleaners to Operators, Grade 1 16-1-80 672 336 FED&FA(I) Stop work meeting to discuss progress on Log of Claims 22 to 24- 856 85 AMW&SU(2), FIA(4) Protest over an incident 1-80 involving supervision and time- keeping of maintenance workers 30-1-80 1053 351 FED&FA(l) Stop work meeting to discuss action regarding Workers' Compensation legislation 31-1 to 16816 1051 FED&FA(1) 48-hour stoppage in protest to 1-2-80 the State Government Workers' Compensation legislation 6-2-80 92 122 AWU(15) Stop work meeting regarding Workers' Compensation legis- lation 8-2-80 65 61 FED&FA(l) Stop work meeting over crib breaks on dredftrs 11-2-80 1376 172 TWU(14) 24-hour TWU tatewide stop- page pJotest to amending legislation to Workers' Com- pensation Act 13 to 18- 1147 137 FA 1(4) Dissatisfaction with arrange- 2-80 ments for trainee rigger trans- fers and rates of pay 14-2-80 5901 2077 AMW&SU(2), FIA(4), Stop work meeting in the FED&FA(I), ETU(6), FMU(7) Latrobe VaJley concerning a resolution calling for a 24-hour Statewide stoppage on 12 March in protest to the State Government's Workers' Compensation legislation 19-2-80 1080 135 AWU(l5) 24-hour A WU Statewide stoppage regarding Workers' Compensation legislation 29-2-80 43 43 FED&FA(l) Protest over crib hut facilities 12-3-80 17080 2135 Metal Trades Unions, Building 24-hour stoppage-Victorian Trades Unions, FED&FA(l) Trades Hall Council protest to amending legislation to Workers' Compensation Act 24-3-80 1360 170 TWU(l4) 24-hour stoppage-Victorian Trades Hall Council protest to amending legislation to Workers' Compensation Act 31-3-80 38 26 FED&FA(l), TWU(14) Demarcation dispute over auxiliary maintenance work 1-4-80 40 20 VOBS(l2) Entry into State Wages Board Determination as an SEC Appendix 18-4-80 232 29 AMW&SU(2) Protest over crib hut facilities 22-4-80 4 8 FED&FA(1) Stop work meeting to discuss crib hut facilities 5672 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Total Man-hours Nos. of Trade Unions Date Lost Employees Invohed Reasons

30-4-80 57 46 FIA(4) Dispute over supervision manning levels 16-5-80 84 24 AMW&SU(2) Stoppage in support of claim for the issue of "Tasmanian Bluey" jackets 20-5-80 133 38 AMW&SU(2) ditto 21-5-80 7664 1916 AMW &SU(2), ETU(6), FlA(4), National campaign by the FMU(7) Metal Trades Unions for a reduction in standard hours from 40 to 35 per week 23-5-80 19 10 FED&FA(I) Meeting of dredge drivers with FED&FA official to discuss relative wage rates 29 to 30- 438 103 AMW&SU(2) Dispute over trades assistants 5-80 duties regarding cleaning of workshops 29-5-80 56 219 ASE(5), AMW&SU(2) Demarcation dispute involving boilermakers and fitters 30-5-80 7740 1548 FIA(4), ETU(6), AMW&SU(2) Employees working to a 35- hour week 11-6-80 24 24 FED&FA(I) Dispute involving seniority of employees 13 to ]5- 305 29 FED&FA(I) Stoppage in support of higher 6-80 rates of pay 19-6-80 6873 2739 Metal Trades Unions, Meeting held to discuss FED&FA(I) proposal to disassociate SECV workers from National Metal Trades 35-hour week campaign 24 to 27- 2488 101 MOA(l3), AIMPE(2J), Stoppage in support of a 6-80 FED&FA(I) claim for improved shift work provision 25-6-80 20 17 FED&FA(I) Stoppage in support of a claim for Leading Hand status by dredge drivers

Legend 1 FED&FA The Federated Engine Drivers and Firemen's Association 2 AMW&SU Amalgamated Metal Workers and Shipwrights' Union 3 S&PU The Federated Storemen and Packers' Union of Australia 4 FIA Federated Ironworkers' Association of Australia 5 ASE Australasian Society of Engineers 6 ETU Electrical Trades Union of Australia 7 FMU Federated Moulders' (Metals) Union 8 ASC&J The Amalgamated Society of Carpenters and Joiners of Australia 9 BWIU The Building Workers' Industrial Union of Australia 10 OP&DU The Operative Painters and Decorators' Union 11 ABCE&BLF The Australian Building Construction Employees and Builders Labourers' Federation 12 YOBS Victorian Operative Bricklayers' Society 13 MOA Municipal Officers' Association of Australia 14 TWU Transport Workers' Union of Australia 15 AWU The Australian Workers' Union of Victoria 16 P&GFEU The Plumbers and Gasfitters Employees' Union of Australia 17 MWU Miscellaneous Workers' Union 18 VBEF The Vehicle Builders Employees' Federation of Australia 19 VPS The Victorian Plasterers' Society 20 ATWU The Australian Timber Workers' Union 21 AIMPE Australian Institute of Marine and Power Engineers 22 APEA The Association of Professional Engineers. Australia Yours sincerely J. C. M. BALFOUR, MINISTER FOR MINERALS AND ENERGY t/) Briefing Information for Minister for Minerals and Energy ~ o Cl) - Cl) Man-hours Lost in the Latrobe Valley by State Electricity Commission Personnel as a Result of Industrial Disputes o· s: ;::s Do> (i to -00 ::r Disputes directly involving SEC Disputes-external factors Lost time T % of total % of Total Total as a % of cc -00 to Man-hours man-hours Man-hours man-hours man-hours man-hours Cl- Year No. lost worked No. lost worked Total worked worked '--'-

1975-76 21 8272 0·07 6 69351 0'60 27 II 615384 0·67 to s:: ~ 1976-77 27 28624 0·24 2 77 912 0-65 29 11 973 192 0·89 (/) 1977-78 12 965 173 7·83 224 13 12 331000 7·83 -O· ;::s 1978-79 40 29545 0·24 3 38484 0'30 43 12695496 0'54 (/) 0 1979-80 37 75186 0·57 12 71 119 0'54 49 13 252 272 1·11 ;::s ~ 0 o· -~ From this table it is evident that the time lost by industrial disputes, both those directly involving the State Electricity Commission and those involving the SEC as a consequence of external factors outside the control of the SEC is a small percentage of the hours worked by the SEC's Latrobe Valley work force of approximately 8000 employees. In the financial year ]977-78 nearly one million man-hours were lost in a single dispute of 11 weeks' duration when the metal unions refused arbitration in preference to direct action in support of a wage increase. These disputes do not incJude the imposition of work bans in the form of bans on overtime and the performance of specific tasks which also inhibit the SEC's operations and have considerable cost penalties. Last year (1979-80) such bans cost the SEC throughout its operations an estimated $14 million. Also, last year a total of 264 964 man-hours was lost through industrial action throughout the SEC compared with the 146305 man-hours lost in the SEC's Latrobe Valley operations as indicated above. None of the figures include disputes, man-hours lost, and so on, in the Latrobe Valley Contractors' employment.

SEC GENERATOR UNIT and Energy: Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for SHUT DOWNS Which generator units in the State Electricity Minerals and Energy)- The answer is: (Question No. 801) Commission system have been shut down over The attached statistics detail outages affect­ the past five financial years for reasons of ing major generation units. The figures in U1 Mr WILKES (Le~derof the Opposi­ industrial disputation, indicating in each case, parentheses indicate outages which extend 0') tion) asked Minister for Minerals -...l the the date and time spent out of service? from oue month to another. CA) 5674 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Industrial Outages July 1975-June 1980 Haze/wood Units Haze/wood Units Period/rom Period DD MM yy hours Period/rom Period DD MM YY hours 16 5 79 5·5 24 6 76 52·9 19 8 79 48·2 30 6 76 ]2·0 31 1 80 {24'0} 3 7 76 184·1 1 2 80 24·0 1 8 77 97·6 11 3 80 30·7 16 5 79 HI 107·9 24 6 80 103'4 29 8 79 40·0 20 9 79 48·0 26 4 76 120·0 11 1 80 8·0 28 5 76 84·0 28 2 80 8·0 13 6 76 420·0 11 3 80 33·8 13 7 76 H7 436·0 24 6 80 106·8 13 8 76 436·0 16 5 79 27·4 30 5 76 48·0 20 6 79 31·6 9 6 76 192·0 24 6 80 101·9 18 6 76 8·9 7 7 76 170·0 11 7 76 27·4 23 8 76 24·0 22 7 76 24·0 25 8 76 48·8 27 8 76 96·0 11 9 77 {468'1 } 21 9 77 H8 53·7 1 10 77 H2 338·9 31 1 79 2·2 16 5 79 25'6 16 5 79 32·0 17 5 79 1·4 17 9 79 24·0 20 6 79 31·0 24 6 80 107·5 9 7 79 48·0 29 11 79 7·1 31 1 80 {24'0} 1 2 80 24·0 27 2 80 72·0 Yallourn El and E2 Unit 12 3 80 24·0 24 6 80 102·6 Period/rom Period 17 7 75 80·5 DD MM YY hours 28 7 76 24·0 2 8 79 22·0 29 6 76 24·5 7 8 79 H3 16·0 1 8 77 14 8 79 48·0 1 9 77 r7~'O~ 11 3 80 36·9 t 720·0 24 6 80 108·1 1 10 77 El 607·5 30 1 80 {25'0 1 2 80 29·5 17 7 75 47·8 26 6 80 23 4 76 168·8 49·2 10 6 76 8·0 17 7 75 23·2 13 7 76 61·0 18 76 22 8 76 144·0 4 55'1 20 1 77 72·0 2 2 77 E2 183·7 1 9 77 {720'0} 8 2 77 H4 190·3 1 10 77 607'5 16 5 79 25·3 26 6 80 3 1 80 8·0 85'1 15 2 80 72·0 12 3 80 24·0 28 4 80 72·0 31 5 80 20·0 Yallourn Wl andW2 Unit 22 6 76 80·5 16 5 79 H5 28-2 Period/rom Period 11 3 80 32-0 DD MM YY hours 24 6 80 105·8 29 6 76 28-6 26 8 76 59-5 2 7 76 16-0 6 10 77 Wl {609'1} 6 7 76 16-0 1 11 77 120'0 26 8 76 50·2 24 6 80 110·6 23 1 77 19-0 12 10 77 8·0 1 10 77 H6 126-2 W2 7 10 77 191-9 24 6 80 128-1 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5675

GEELONG BUS SERVICE Earlier Finish-Thompsons Road 6.30 p.m. instead of 11.10 p.m. Belmont-Highton 8.20 (Question No. 806) p.m. instead of 12.10 p.m. Newtown-Chilwell 12.00 noon instead of 11.00 p.m. Mr TREZISE (Geelong North) asked Service Deleted-North Shore. the Minister or Transport: Sunday: 1. What subsidy has been provided annually Later Start-Thompsons Road, Belmont­ over the past three years to private bus Highton 11.00 a.m. instead of approximately operators in the Geelong district towards the 10.00 a.m. Melbourne Road 8.45 a.m. instead transport of public passengers and school of 8.00 a.m. students? Earlier Finish-Thompsons Road, Belmont­ 2. What services and routes have been cut Highton 5.00 p.m. instead of approximately back over the past six months in the GeelOllg region and what are the reasons for such 10.00 p.m. cut backs? Service Deleted-Newtown-ChiIwell. 3. What extensions or additional bus ser­ (3) At the time of the introduction of the vices are being considered or proposed for the revised timetable on 5 October 1980, Bender's Geelong region? Busways Pty Ltd extended the Melbourne Road service to the Rosewall Estate. Other requests Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ for extensions of the existing network have port)-The answer is: been received and are under consideration- ( 1) Private route bus operators in the Operator Serl';ce Details Geelong urban area received the following Government subsidy during the last three Trans Otway Ltd Anakie Road Extension to Corio Village Shopping years: Centre 1977-78 $ 934000 A. M. & Estate of Whittington Upgrading of existing 1978-79 $1 103228 N. J. McHarry service in the 1979-80 $1 044625 Whittington area In addition, the Geelong operators received Government funds for the provision of pen­ sioner fare concessions on route services and OFFICE BUGGING in the last three years payments were as follows: (Question No. 807) 1977-78 $40759 Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the 1978-79 $37982 1979-80 $37345 Minister for Police and Emergency Services: (2) Last year Bender's Busways Pty Ltd applied to the Transport Regulation Board to In respect of claims on page 3 of the National revise its timetabled route services operating Times Business Review, 9 November to 15 in the area. The company was concerned November 1980 concerning the bugging of the with its financial position and considered that Commonwealth Industrial Gases Ltd office in Melbourne, whether a complaint was made to costs had to be reduced through the elimin­ the police concerning this illegal activity' if so ation of unprofitable trips. what action was taken; if not, whether the Based on the patronage data submitted to incident will be investigated and, if not, why? the board, it was clear that the existing level of service was not warranted in all cases. Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police The board approved a number of the reduc­ and Emergency Services)-The answer tions sought and the revised services were is: introduced on 5 October 1980. The service No complaint concerning the alleged "bug­ changes made can be summarized as follows: ging" of the Melbourne office of Commonwealth Weekdays: Ind~strial Gases Ltd has been received by the pO.hce, In the ab~ence of a formal complaint, Frequency Variations-Melbourne Road, It IS not the practIce of the police to investigate Belmont, Highton and North Shore. such allegations. Earlier Finish-Thompsons Road, Belmont and Highton-approximately 9.30 p.m. instead of approximately 11.00 p.m. Monday to BOND GUARANTEES Thursday Newtown-Chilwell-5.40 p.m. instead (Question No. 809) of 11 p.m. Friday last bus 9.00 p.m. Saturday: Mr !~EZISE (Geelong North) asked the MInIster for Minerals and Energy: Frequency Variation-Melbourne Road. 1. What is the approximate number of house­ Later Start-Thompson's Road 8.15 a.m. holders at present who have lodged bond instead of 7.00 a.m. Belmont 7.20 a.m. instead guara~te~s as a sur:ety for State Electricity of 6.45 a.m. Highton 7.55 a.m. instead of Commission accounts being paid on the due 7.20 a.m. dates? 5676 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

2. When such cash bond guarantee system Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ was introduced? port)-l1he answer is: 3. What has been the bond amount since inception? Ryrie Street and Garden Street, East Geelong. 4. Whether interest paid on such moneys There are no immediate proposals to install by the commission to the householder lodging traffic lights. The Country Roads Board is the bond; if not, why? currently carrying out an investigation to Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for determine the most suitable treatment to improve conditions for traffic using this inter­ Minertalsand Energy)-The answer is: section. 1. As at 24 November 1980, approximately 67 000 security deposits were held for a Queenscliff Road (Bellarine Highway) and monetary value of $6 076 000 by the State Wilsons Road, Newcomb. Electricity Commission. This includes all classes There are no immediate proposals to install of customers-Domestic, Commercial and In­ traffic lights. However, it may be necessary dustrial, etc. to consider the installation of traffic lights at If the reference to "householders" is taken this intersection if a shopping centre and to mean domestic customers, this specific figure community centre is developed on adjacent land is not readily available but, as domestic cus­ as currently proposed. tomers represent approximately 79.5 per cent of the commission's total customers, it is reasonable to assume that approximately 54 000 GEELONG-MELBOURNE RAILWAY deposits for a value of S3 800 000 are held for domestic customers. The abovementioned SERVICE figures are to be the nearest thousand. ( Question No. 811) 2. The exact date that the security deposit system was introduced is not known, but the Mr TREZISE (Geelong North) asked system has been in force for at least 40 years, the Minister of Transport: in line with other like utilities interstate and overseas. What was the approximate average number 3. A standard scale of security deposits of passengers travelling on the Geelong­ has always been in vogue based on the average Melbourne railway service each day as at electricity account, for example, in 1955 June 1975, 1978 and 1980, respectively, specify­ security deposits for domestic customers ing-(a) periodic ticket holders; and (b) day ranged from a minimum of £2 ($4) up to £5 return travellers? (SI0). This is reviewed regularly in line with tariff movements and currently security de­ Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ posits for customers are based on the average port)-The answer is: quarterly account, with a minimum of $90. Where it can be established that a customer's The Victorian Railways Board has advised use of electricity is less than average, the me that tallies taken in August 1975 and 1978 minimum deposit is reduced accordingly. and July 1980 show the average number of passengers travelling daily on the Geelong line 4. Interest is not paid on security deposits to be as follows: primarily because the average interest credit would be too small to justify the associated To Melbourne To Geelong accounting and administration expense, which 1975 3377 3114 would be passed on to all customers in the 1978 3777 3288 form of increased tariffs. 1980 3717 3443 It is relevant to mention that the commission The number of these travellers holding does not charge interest on overdue accounts periodical tickets is not readily available. covered by the ordinary conditions of supply and a deposit is normally refunded after a period of twelve months, if the customer has established a satisfactory payment record. GEELONG HOUSING Thereafter, continuous credit is allowed by the COMMISSION UNITS commission, free of interest charges. Security deposits are refunded when the customer (Question No. 812) vacates the premises. Mr TREZISE (Geelong North) asked the Minister of Housing: TRAFFIC LIGHTS (Question No. 810) 1. What amount was allocated for the 1978-79, 1979-80 and 1980-81 financial years Mr ERNST (Geelong East) asked the to provide maintenance works for Housing Minister of Transport: Commission units in the Geelong and district region? When it is expected that traffic lights will be operative at the intersections of Ryrie Street 2. What was the approximate number of and Garden Street, East Geelong, and Queens­ units eligible for such maintenance works in cliffe Road and Wilson Road, Newcomb? the Geelong region in such years? 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5677

Mr KENNETT (Minister of Housing)­ clubs. The conditions of issue of licences and certificates are matters entirely within the The answer is: discretion of the racing clubs and the com­ 1. 1978-79 $991 780 mittee respectively. 1979-80 $890 000 1980-81 $943000 2. 1978-79 2335 YALLOURN W POWER STATION 1979-80 2554 1980-81 2537 (Question No. 815) Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ BOOKMAKERS tion) asked the Minister for Minerals (Question No. 814) and Energy: Mr TREZISE (Geelong North) asked What were the original target dates of com­ mercial service for units three and four of the the Treasurer: Yallourn W power station and what are the 1. How many bookmakers are at present latest target dates, indicating the reasons for licensed to conduct betting on Victorian race­ the delay? courses? 2. How many such licensed bookmakers Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for there were at (a) 30 June 1970; and (b) 30 June Minerals land Energy)-The answer is: 1975? The target dates of commercial service for 3. What approximate percentage of book­ the Yallourn W power station units three and makers relinquished operating such licences four were originally June 1979 and June 1980 within two years of having such licences respectively. granted? The current target dates for commercial ser­ 4. What are the conditions an applicant vice are August 1981 and March 1982 respec­ must adhere to before a bookmakers licence tively. Commercial service is defined as when application can be considered? the plant has fulfilled all contract requirements (incuding perfonnance testing) and is taken Mr THOMPSON (Treasurer)-The over by the State Electricity Commission. answer is: The major reason for the delay in bringing 1. As at 31 October, 1980 (the end of the into commercial service of the units is industrial latest licence period) the number of book­ disruptions during the erection phase of the makers registered by the Bookmakers and contract. Bookmakers Clerks Registration Committee to conduct betting on Victorian racecourses was Civil works were delayed because of indus­ trial disputes forcing a late start for mechanical 535. works. During the mechanical erection phase 2. As the licence period for bookmakers there have been disruptions due to: expires at the end of October each year figures are kept as at 31 October in each year. The Demarcation disputes; number of registered bookmakers as at 31 overtime limitations; October 1975 was 550. However, as precise 35-hour week working; and figures have only been kept in recent years working conditions. it has been estimated that there were 500 Also, the complexity of construction of the registered bookmakers as at 31 October, 1970. raw coal bunker, the sequential construction of 3. Over the last five years the number of the electrical annexe and construction difficul­ registered bookmakers who relinquished their ties in the precipitator and boiler areas, in some registration within two years of first being measure contributed to the delay in the registered was: programme. Year ended 31 October Number 1976 3 BOOKMAKER OPERATIONS 1977 7 1978 lO (Question No. 816) 1979 7 Mr TREZISE (Geelong North) asked 1980 11 the Treasurer: 4. Bookmakers are required to hold current certificates of registration issued by the Book­ 1. What is the average number of book­ makers and Bookmakers' Clerks Registration makers operating on. metropolitan racing, trot­ Committee. That committee is set up under ting and greyhound race meetings? Part IV of the Racing Act 1958 which is ad­ 2. What was the average number operating ministered by the Department of Youth, Sport at comparative race meetings in 1975? and Recreation. Section 86 of the Racing Act requires that a person must be 18 years of age Mr THOMPSON (Treasurer)-The and hold a "club bookmaker's licence" before answer is: he or she may apply for a certificate of regis­ tration from the committee. Bookmakers 1 and 2. The actual numbers of bookmakers licences to field at race, trotting and grey­ registered to operate at metropolitan racing, hound meetings are issued by the various trotting and greyhound meetings in each of 5678 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY the years ended 31 October 1975 and 31 October Portland; (Hi) relocating protected tenants; and 1980 are listed in the following table: (iv) the allocation of new money, as against 1975 1980 revolving funds? Flemington Races 214 185 Caulfield Races 225 175 Mr KENNETT (Minister of Housing)­ Sandown Races 150 135 'J1he answer is: Moonee Valley Races 195 146 The proposed State allocation of funds for Moonee Valley Trots 75 1980-81 and source for housing are set out Showground Trots 96 67 below: Sandown Greyhounds 62 58 Olympic Park Greyhounds 63 59 1980-81 $'000000 It should be noted that: Works and Services- (i) the above figures have a considerable Housing Commission, Victoria 10·0 overlap as many bookmakers are both licensed Teacher Housing Authority and registered to operate at more than one 3·3 course; Other Departments 3·4 (ii) trotting races were not held at Moonee Internal Funds- Valley in 1975; Housing Commission, Victoria 27·7 (iii) the average number of bookmakers who Co-operatives 19-5 fielded at each of the above courses in 1975 Teacher Housing Authority ·4 and 1980 does not deviate from the above Housing Assistance Scheme 19-9 figures as a bookmaker's stand is almost Net Advances-Home Finance Trust 2·2 invariably occupied by the bookmaker himself Interest Subsidy 1·1 or a substitute if the bookmaker does not attend the meeting. New Borrowing- Housing Commission, Victoria 1·2 Teacher Housing Authority - DOUBLES BOOKMAKER Decentralized Industry Housing Authority 1·2 ADVERTISING Other Authorities 4·8 (Question No. 817) Salaries, etc.- Mr TREZISE (Geelong North) asked Ministry of Housing 1·0 Co-operatives ·9 the Minister for Youth, Sport and Decentralized Industry Housing Authority ·1 Recreation: 1. Why New South Wales based doubles $96·7 bookmakers are permitted to advertise doubles on Victorian feature races in Victorian news­ papers whilst it is illegal for their Victorian (a) A speCific overall allocation of funds for counterparts to similarly advertise in Victorian rental has not been made. newspapers? (b) A specific overall allocation of funds 2. Whether he will take immediate action to purchase has not been made. to end this discrimination? (i) $7 000 000 (ii) $3 000 000 Mr DIXON (Minister for Youth, Sport (iii) A specific allocation has not been made and Recreation)-The answer is: (iv) New Money-$49-1 million. 1. Section 40 of the Lotteries, Gaming and Revolving funds-$47·6 mililon. Betting Act 1966 prohibits Victorian book­ makers from publishing information concerning betting but contains a proviso permitting Inter­ state bookmakers to publish equivalent infor­ GRANTS TO CO-OPERATIVE mation. HOUSING SOCIETIES 2. Yes, I will raise the matter with the (Question No. 821) Attorney-General within whose jurisdiction the matter lies. Mr ROSS-EDWARDS (Leader of the National Party) asked the Minister of ALLOCATION OF FUNDS FOR Housing: HOUSING Following his announcement in October that (Question No. 819) $38 million would be allocated to 103 co-oper­ ative building societies to assist Victorian home Mr CATHIE (Carrum) asked the Min­ buyers, what were the names of the societies ister of Housing: concerned and how much each society received? What is the State allocation of funds and Mr KENNETT (Minister of Housing)­ their sources for housing---(a) for rental; and (b) purchase in this financial year, indicating­ 'J1he answer is: (i) the percentage tied to Latrobe Valley; (ii) Refer schedule attached. 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5679

The Following Housing Societies Have Accepted Offers of Finance for the 1980-81 Financial Year Home Purchase Housing Assistance Assistance Account Scheme Secre tary-Region Location Name of Society $ $ Melbourne-Suburban M. J. O'Mullane Carlton Suburban (No. 14) 650000 Suburban (No. 19) 300000 R. K. O'Neill Meibourne Metropolitan No. 23 550000 A. Collins Ringwood Heathmont (No. to) 675000 Ringwood (No. 16) 200000 D. L. Looker Me1t~n Djerriwarrh No. 3 400000 Dierriwarrh No. 4 200000 A. McKenzie Ch~'ltenham South land No. 7 150000 S.Jolly Croydon Croydon District (No. 1 t) 125000 H. Chalmers Coburg Coburg Metro 375000 V. Burns Hawthorn Hawthorn (No. 3) 175000 N. Finn Moorabbin Lonsdale (No. 18) 400000 W. Boyd Werribee Werribee (No. t t) 300000 Werribee (No. 15) 200000 A. Hetyey Fairlleld Bellona 300000 R. McPhail Box Hill Ivandale No. 17 200000 Eastern Suburbs (No. 13) 200000 G. Davenport Mo~nt Waverley Hampshire 200000 Central Business O. Barber Melbourne Rosanna District (No. 10) 950000 B. Rose Melbourne Bourke No. 7 875000 R. Maybury & D. McCartney Melbourne Security (No. 37) 500000 Security (No. 40) 200000 J. Courtney Melb~urne Charter (No. t 8) 650000 L. S. Eva Melbourne Workman's No. 29 400000 H. Holmes Melbourne Olympic No. 13 500000 A. Bussey Melbourne A.N.A. C.H.S. (No. 24) 375000 E. Suss Melbourne The Melmet C.H.S. (No. 3) 300000 Outer Melbourne B.Rose Baxter Baxter (No. 7) 750000 R. O'Neill Cranbourne Sherwood No. 6 325000 J. Courtney Kilmore Kilmore (No. 2) 175000 Broadford Broadford (No. 1) 150,000 A. C."Downard Dandenong Henty No. 4 250000 Fortuna No. 4 300000 E. Plumridge Lang'Lang Lang Lang No. 8 200000 R. Morris Rosebud Rosebud (No. 11) 325000 N. Stephenson Pakenham Pakenham No. 8 375000 C. Smith Sunbury Sunbury C.H.S. No. 5 625000 Sunbury c.H.S. No. 7 200000 D. Lowe Fra~kston Bayside (No. 9) 200000 North Western R. A. Brown Echuca Echuca & District (No. 9) 175000 H. French Swan Hill Swan Hi11 District No. ] 4 ]25000 P. Stewart Kyneton Kyneton ]00000 C. Thomson Mildura Mildura and District ]25000 Sixteenth Mildura 375000 W. Johanson Ca;t'lemaine Castlemaine No. 7 75000 J. Peevers Kerang Loddon No. 12 75000 R. Whitmore Maryborough Maryborough and District No. ]0 75000 Western P. McMillan Warrnambool Wannon No. 11 775000 F. Stewart Portland P:>rtland (No. to) 425000 Portland (No. 11) 1000000 D. Cowan Col~c Barongarook 400000 D. Partington Hamilton Grange 325000 M. J. Roberts Cobden Heytesbury No. 4 100000 J. Van Herpen Coleraine Mount Koroite 100000 Geelong A. R. David Geelong Geelong Citizens C.H.S. No. 24 975000 C. Carr & B. West Geelong Moorabool No. 15 325000 Moorabool No. ] 8 200000 R. Farrow Villamanta (No. 9) 500000 5680 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Home Purchase Housing Assistance Assistance Account Scheme Secretary-Region Location Name of Society $ $ J. II1ingworth Barwon (No. ))) 250000 Barwon (No. 13) 250000 M. Gourley Labor (No. 7) 550000 Labor (No. 9) 500000 B.Thom Kardinia (No. ) 8) 325000 W. Tonkin Fenwick (No. 3) 400000 W. Dykes Barrabool (No. 5) 425000 South Eastern R. K. O'Neill Traralgon Narrogal No. 2 250000 Traralgon (No. 12) 250000 Traralgon (No. 13) 1425000 M'~e Moe (No. 5) 500000 Moe (No. 6) 300000 o';ouin Drouin & District (No. 5) 125000 Drouin & District (No. 6) 500000 M~~weH The Decentralist No. 12 750000 RosedaJe Shire of Rosedale No. 2 200000 F. Hurst Wonthaggi Wonthaggi District C.H.S. No. 4 250000 N. Hodgson Morwell Hazelwood (No. 3) 250000 Hazelwood (No. 5) 500000 A. Porter Wa~~agul Tarago (No. 6) 275000 Tarago (No. 7) 600000 N. Yarr Bair~sdale Mitchell No. 5 250000 P. Clancy & J. Laws Sale Sale No. 13 200000 D. Perrett Leongatha South Gippsland No. 9 125000 F. Hiscock Morwell SEC Project No. 6 150000 SEC Project No. 7 275000 North Eastern D. Logan Numurkah Numurkah and District (No. 8) 125000 C. Mogg Cobram Murray Valley (No. 11) 150000 R. Wood Shepparton Shepparton & District (No. 18) 200000 Shepparton & District (No. 20) 300000 J. Smith Benaiia Benalla No. 13 250000 R. McKenzie Wangaratta Wangaratta C.H.S. No. 20 150000 R. Brown Kyabram Kyabram & District (No. 13) 150000 R. Tate Alexandra Alexandra No. 7 100000 I. McNee Wodonga Wodonga No. 8 500000 Bright Bright Shire No. 1 150000 Chiltern Shire of Chiltern No. 1 150000 J. Haebich Yarrawonga Yarrawonga No. 2 75000 J. Trevaskis Tatura Tatura & District No. 4 100000 Wimmera M. Taylor Horsham Horsham No. 14 350000 H. Carruthers Ararat Ripon (No. 13) 250000 L. Wheaton Warracknabeal Warracknabeal No. 3 125000 F. Evans Daylesford Daylesford (No. 7) 125000 Bendigo G. Pitson Bendigo Kangaroo Flat Bendigo No. 18 325000 W. Johanson Eaglehawk Eaglehawk No. 16 250000 B. McGrath Bendigo West End No. 6 275000 .. West End No. 8 275000 C. Ashman Bendigo Golden City No. 9 275000 W. Cramer Bendigo Enterprise No. 8 200000 BaHarat N. Martino & K. Perrin Ballarat Cardigan Village No. 4 275000 C. Prowse Midlands No. 14 275000 Dana No. 4 275000 K. Travers Ballarat No. 25 450000 Grant (No. 3) 175000 G. Cunningham Wendouree No. 9 100000 M. Kearney Garden City No. 8 100000 TOTAL $27050000 $9800 000 Summary: No. of Societies 114 Aggregate amount allocated: $36850000 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5681

HOUSING COMMISSION of lack of foster care programmes or in­ adequacies of foster care programmes in par­ "GRANNY FLATS" ticular regions? (Question No. 823) 2. How many children so affected are in Mr TREZISE (Geelong North) asked each region? the Minister of Housing: 3. Which regions do not have foster care 1. Which firm provides "granny flats" to programmes? the Victorian Housing Commission? Mr JONA (Minister for Community 2. What is the contracted price? Welfare Services)-The lanswer is: 3. What are the transport costs to move such 1. Approximately 48 children held at Allam­ flats to Geelong? bie Reception Centre on 16 December 1980 4. Who is responsible for such freight costs? were suitable for placement with a foster 5. How many "granny flats" have been family. transferred to Geelong since the inception of 2. The regional location of these children the scheme? was as follows: 6. When the present contract on the supply Inner urban region 10 of "granny flats" terminates? Western suburbs region 8 Mr KENNETT (Minister of Housing)-­ Central Gippsland region 5 Outer eastern region 5 The answer is: Loddon Campaspe region 4 1. The current contract has been let to Southern suburbs region 2 G.A. Constructions of Dandenong. The follow­ Inner eastern region 2 ing contractors are also registered with the North eastern suburbs region 4 commission to provide and erect units: Western port region 3 Karinya Constructions, Ringwood. East Gippsland region 1 A.B.S. Building, Reservoir. Upper Murray region 1 Jennings Industries Ltd, Mulgrave. Goulburn region 1 IFCO Limited, Mordialloc. In addition, there were two children whose "Logans" Units, Ballarat. regional location is being determined. 2. $709400.00 (average $11 823.00 a unit). 3. The following regions are without foster 3. $160.00 a unit. care programmes: 4. The contractor. Outer eastern region Inner eastern region 5. Nine. Southern suburbs region 6. 30 June 1981. Glenelg region Also, there are seven regions, namely: MINISTRY FOR CONSERVATION North western suburbs region GRANTS Central highlands region (Question No. 831) East Gippsland region Goulburn region Mr EBERY (Midlands) asked the Min­ Wimmera region ister for Minerals and Energy: Western suburbs region In view of the grants by the Ministry for Central Gippsland region Conservation to the independent organizations where regional centre staff are not providing of the Conservation Council of Victoria and all components of what is deemed to be an the Victorian National Parks Association of adequate foster care programme, i.e., Reception $12000 and $6000 respectively, whether he Foster Care, Emergency Foster Care, short and will provide a grant of $lO 000 to the Pros­ long term foster care and pre-adoi>tive foster pectors' and Miners' Association of Victoria, care. which is pledged to support the Mines Act 1958 In addition, foster care programmes con­ and the conservation of the miners right? ducted in other regions vary with respect to Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for both the development of all components of the Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: programmes and their capacity to cater for I will be prepared to receive a submission the diverse range of needs of children presently on this matter provided it is clearly indicated accommodated at Allambie Reception Centre as to the purposes for which the grant would who might otherwise be suitably placed in a be used. In accepting a submission there is no foster care programme. commitment to grant the request. CLASSIFICATION OF PRISONERS FOSTER CARE PROGRAMMES (Question No. 833) (Question No. 832) Mrs TONER (Greens borough) asked Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked the Minister for Community Welfare the Minister for Community Welfare Services: Services: Whether the present classification rules pro­ 1. How many children presently held at hibit any prisoner subject to extradition pro­ Allambie Reception Centre are suitable for ceedings, from serving a sentence in any prison fostering, but have not been so placed because other than a high-security prison, re~ardles$ 5682 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

of his record of good behaviour; if so, whether Land (Reserves) Act 1978 following Land Con­ he will direct the Divisional Classification Com­ servation Council recommendations is to be mittee to review such procedures for the pur­ regarded as reserved for a public use or purpose pose of establishing criteria which relate to the and, as a consequence, becomes exempt from best interests of the prisoner's rehabilitation occupation for mining purposes under any as well as the security risks? miner's right is accepted; if so, whether he will take action to see that such reservations total­ Mr JONA (Minister for Com,munity ling about 80 000 hectares as proposed for North Welfare Services)-The answer is: Central Victoria will not be locked up from The Divisional Classification Committee's private enterprise prospecting by holders of policy towards prisoners subject to extradition miner's rights? proceedings is that they remain in a high 2. Whether public purpose reserves under security prison to serve their sentence, or be section 4 of the Crown Land (Reserves) Act returned immediately from a country prison, 1978 are equally unavailable to companies for when extradition becomes known regardless prospecting under exploration .licence? of their behaviour record. Mr LIE BERM AN (Minister for There is no intention of reviewing this policy as it is felt that prisoners facing extradition Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: generally tend to become more unsettled and 1. I am informed that my colleague, the anxious particularly towards the completion Minister for Conservation, has not received the of their sentence and as such, can pose a man­ final recommendations for the north central agement problem and security risk. Prisoners study area. When these recommendations are are usually advised of this policy on their received and considered, any administrative or admission. legislative actions considered necessary would Furthermore, the department has the respon­ be taken. sibility to ensure that prisoners are· kept in 2. No Crown land reserved for public pur­ safe custody and brought before the courts as poses under section 4 of the Crown Land required. (Reserves) Act 1978 is available for prospect­ ing under exploration licence subject to the PRISON POPULATIONS consent of the Minister of Lands. However, I point out that exploration licences permit only (Question No. 834) exploration for gold or minerals, but do not Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked authorize mining operations. the Minister for Community and Wel­ fare Services: MINING APPLICATIONS Whether he will define the daily average (Question No. 837) prison population at each Victorian prison for the years 1975-76 to 1979-80 inclusive? Mr EBERY (Midlands) asked the Min­ Mr JONA (Minister for Community ister for Minerals and Energy: Wefare Services) -The answer is: Whether the Department of Minerals and Energy require every applicant for a claim, The details requested are set out in the accompany­ search licence or lease to obtain the permission ing table. of the holder of an exploration licence over the area before it will proceed with such applica­ 1975- 1976- 1977- 1978- 1979- tions; if so--(a) why such permission is re­ Prison 76 77 78 79 80 quired from applicants concerned with gold only when gold is not defined as a mineral for Pentridge 896 847 820 832 883 the purposes of section 526 of the Mines Act Ararat 140 135 166 169 182 1958; (b) whether there is any right of appeal Beechworth 82 71 63 77 105 against the refusal by an exploration licensee to Bendigo 66 66 70 72 75 grant such permission; (c) whether at least one Castlemaine 73 77 85 87 88 exploration licensee is granting such permission Dhurringile 37 38 48 53 54 provided the applicant signs an undertaking Geelong 106 96 100 107 110 to agree to certain restrictions not contained Morwell River 50 44 48 57 61 in the Mines Act 1958 and, in that event, under Sale 45 43 41 45 46 what provision and whether he will take steps Won Wron .. 57 35 51 62 77 to have this practice stopped; and (d) whether Fairlea 24 32 33 34 46 he will take steps to remove the discriminatory Total 1604 1484 1525 1595 1727 practice against holders of miner's rights, in favour of exploration licencees, or requiring PROSPECTING AND MINING such permission? Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for (Question No. 836) Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: Mr EBERY (Midlands) asked the Min­ Yes. Except in the case of a search licence. ister for Minerals and Energy: Section 526 of the Mines Act 1958 requires 1. Whether the claim by the Prospectors' that the consent of the exploration licence and Miners' Association of Victoria that Crown holder be obtained in the case of a claim or land reserved under section 4 of the Crown lease application. 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5683

(a) A legislative oversight which will be 2. Departmental attention has been given to corrected by an amendment. these management matters at all facilities and (b) No. the present management situation at Windsor Youth Welfare Service is such that there is (c) The Mines Act 1958 does not limit t~e adequate and appropriate implementation of nature of the consent procedures. However m the programme policies and procedures. answer to (c) and (d), I am aware of the practice and the matter is under review. RECEPTION CENTRES WINDSOR YOUTH WELFARE (Question No. 839) INQUIRY (Question No. 838) Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked the Minister for Community Welfare Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked Services: the Minister for Community Welfare During the past twelve months how many Services: families of two or more children have been 1. What are the management matters identi­ in reception centres conducted by the Depart­ fied through the Windsor Youth. Welfare In­ ment of Community Welfare Services for quiry as requiring further attention? periods in excess of four months whilst await­ 2. Whether departmental attention has been ing joint placement in family group homes, given to those management m~tters referred children's homes or foster care? to in the inquiry; if so, what IS the present management situation? Mr JONA (Minister for Community Welfare Services)-'fhe answer is: Mr JONA (Minister for Community During the twelve-month period 1 November Welfare Services)-The answer is: 1979 to 31 October 1980, a total of 36 families 1. The management matters, identifi.ed involving 96 children have been placed in through the Windsor Youth Welfare ServIce either AlIambie, Baltara, Miralee or Warrawee Inquiry as requiring further attention included reception centres for periods exceeding four the following: months whilst awaiting joint placement in family group homes, children's homes or foster Procedures and restoring arrangements for care. all staff involved in taking "time-in-lieu" and the possible problems of penalty rate payments paid on "time-in-lieu" periods; the develop­ PRISONER ACCOMMODATION ment of policies and guidelines for the use of (Question No. 844) reasonable force and physical intervention in the management of children and adolescents, Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked not only at Windsor Youth Welfare Service, but other facilities as well; the development of the Minister for Community Welfare guidelines and procedures for staff selection Services: for all facilities involving child care and youth 1. How many prisoners in each of Victoria's officer staff; the development of administrative prisons are accommodated in single cells? procedures covering all facilities for the re­ cording and reporting of hours worked, inci­ 2. How many prisoners in each of Victoria'S dents, and staff assessments; rostering arrange­ prisons are accommodated in-(a) two bed cells; ments for senior staff in relation to overall (b) three bed cells; (c) four bed cells; and (d) programme requirements; the development of dormitories? guidelines and procedures for dealing with staff accountability, discipline and associated Mr JONA (Minister for Community matters; and the provision of additional ad­ Welfare Services)-The answer is: ministrative support for the administration of The details requested are set out in the Youth Welfare Services. accompanying table.

Cell Room Size Total Prison 2 3 4 5-9 10-19 20+ Capacity Pentridge Jika Jika 54 54 "0" Division .. 176 2 28 32 36 274 "F" Division .. 18 146 164 "G" Division .. 53 53 "on Division .. 145 145 "E" Division .. 4 19 32 55 "A" Division .. 155 155 "J" Division .. 35 35 "H" Division .. 37 37 5684 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Cell Room Size Total Prison 2 3 4 5-9 10-19 20+ Capacity

Total Pentridbe .. 655 2 32 51 86 146 972 Ararat .. 10 2 188 200 Beechworth 102 6 4 112 Bendigo 47 21 16 84 Castlemaine 70 2 9 12 93 Dhurringile 6 12 17 23 58 Geelong 85 9 16 10 120 Morwell River 80 80 Sale 22 18 10 50 Won Wron 90 90 Total Country 336 84 141 236 57 33 887 Total Male 991 86 141 268 108 119 146 1859 Fairlea .. 11 25 32 68 Total Prison 1002 86 141 268 133 151 146 1927 Percentage 52'0 4'5 7·3 13'9 6'9 7'8 7'6 100'0

ARTS CENTRE projected interior for The Salzburg Museum VICTORIAN of Antique Costume, Salzburg, Austria. (Question No. 845) This project was in association with the Helen Larson collection and the City of Mr CAT HIE (Carrum) asked the Min­ Salzburg; and ister for the Arts: the interiors of the restaurants, L'Ermitage' 1. When Mr Trustcott was appo~nte~ by the and L'Orange'. Victorian Arts Centre Trust, indlcatmg-(a) 2. Additional costs will be incurred. The trust the reason for the appointment; (b) why he was is financing the costs of wall, ceiling and floor appointed and the interior ~esign for the centre finishes from within the budget (known as the transferred from the architect; and (c) w~at project cost limit), plus whatever funds can involvement Mr Trustcott has had m major be raised from private and corporate donations. architectural interiors? (a) Sub-contracts for some finishes were let 2. What additional costs and additional prior to the appointment; however, little work alterations to existing documents have occurred, had been carried out at the time. Some revisions indicating-(a) what sub-co":tracts ha~ alre~dy have been made and these have been confined been let prior to the appomtment. mcludm.g to surface finishes. thus avoiding the need to any changes and the effect; and (b) what IS discard the basic form of design on which the the estimated additional time added to the com­ sub-contractor tendered. The effect of revised pletion of the project by these changes? finishes has been to delay the sub-contractors' involvement. however such delays have been Mr LACY (Minister for the Arts)­ offset in a large degree by concurrent industrial The ans'wer is: disruption. 1. Mr Trustcott was appointed as ~nte~ior (b) On 11 September 1980 the completion Design Consultant at a meeting of the VictOrIan date of the concert hall was extended by some Arts Centre Trust on 12 June 1980. six months due to delays of all sorts. There ( a) To assist the architect in designi.ng and has been no identifiable extension involving advising on colours, textures a!,d m~tertals for interior finishes to the theatres. interior finishes and loose furmture m the con­ MINING FOREST AREAS cert hall and theatres. (b) He was appointed on the reco~men~a­ (Question No. 846) tion of the architect, in the words of hiS br!ef. Mr EBERY (Midlands) asked the Min­ "to provide support for the architect m creatmg ister for Minerals and Energy: an exciting theatre atmosphere ... and: .. to achieve an interior design agreed by .Slr Roy 1. Why the Order-in-Council of 30 January Grounds to be in accord with the archItectural 1974 only excepts land under section 50 of the design of the building". Forests Act 1958 from occupation for mining purposes under any miner's right, but does not (c) All interiors and exteriors for the Para- except companies mining under lease? mount motion picture. Paint Your Wagon; 2. In view of this discrimination and the all projected interiors for the motion pic- possibility of approximately 50 000 hectares of ture, The Great Gatsby; . land in north central Victoria being reserved all projected interiors for the motIOn pic- under section 50 of the Forests Act 1958, ture, The Lady Sings ~he Blues; whether he will take steps to have that order all interiors and exterIors for the Warner revoked? Bros. motion picture, Camelot; 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5685

Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Stewards in charge of country meetings are paid $34 a meeting plus $10 allowance. Assist­ Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: ant board stewards are paid $24.50 a meeting 1. Leases can be rigidly conditioned in refer­ plus $10 allowance. ence to mining operations and reclamation. A miner's right holder can apply for a lease over such areas anyway. MICROFILM FACILITIES 2. My colleague, the Minister for Conserva­ (Question No. 848) tion has informed me that he has not received final recommendations for the north central Mr KIRKWOOD (Preston) asked the area. Until these recommendations have been Minister for Property and Services: received and considered I am unable to com­ In view of the fact that microfilm facilities ment on the possibiltiy of approximately are available in other States, whether he will 50 000 hectares being reserved under section provide microfilm facilities for the public to 50 of the Forests Act 1958. My colleague, the search records of births, deaths and marriages? Minister of Forests, and I have agreed to examine the proposal to rescind the Order-in­ Mr WOOD (Minister for Property Council of 30 January 1974. and Services)-The answer is: The indexes of births, deaths and marriages GREYHOUND RACING CLUB STAFF are not available for public search, all searches (Question No. 847) being conducted by office staff after payment of fees prescribed by regulations of the Births, Mr TREZISE (Geelong North) asked Deaths and Marriages Act, 1959. the Minis,ter for Youth, Sport and With the exception of Tasmania which has Recreation: recently made available for public search in­ 1. What permanent and temporary staff are dexes of pre-1900 events, the system which is employed for administrative purposes by the currently in operation in Victoria is the system Melbourne Greyhound Racing Association and followed in all States. the Sandown, Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, War­ The births indexes contain full information ragul, Warrnambool and Horsham greyhound of parentage which amongst other things, makes racing clubs, detailing their respective staff it possible to identify persons born out of wed­ roles, salaries and allowances? lock and it is not considered proper to make 2. What are the similar details in respect such indexes available for public inspection. of the administrative staff of the Greyhound I am sure there would be many complaints of Racing Control Board and members of the invasion of privacy if indexes of births and Greyhound Racing Control Board? marriages were made available for public scrutiny. Mr DIXON (Minister for Youth, Sport Under the present system, there are no and Recreation)-The answer is: limitations on persons researching their own 1. The information sought is a matter within family history, but events which families would the control of the clubs and their elected com­ not wish made public are not available for mittees. I suggest that the honourable member public information. If the suggestion of an index contact the clubs direct to obtain the required for public search was followed, it would information. entail considerable expense. Further funds would be necessary to -provide additional 2. Salaries accommodation and staff for the housing and The Chairman $3 870 per annum supervision of a public index. Members 1270 per annum Public Service rates are applied for travelling allowance and mileage. USE OF PROSTAGLANDINS IN Duties LIVESTOCK As described in the Racing Act. Members meet for one full day per fortnight and (Question No. 854) are required on sub-committees. Dr COGHILL (Werribee) asked the Staff Minister of Health: Salaries-(Administrative Ranges of Pub­ lic Service Board apply) What controls exist under the Poisons Act 1962 over the distribution, sale and use of Full-time- prostaglandins intended for use in livestock, Secretary $19471 a year indicating the regulations applying to their Chief Steward 18541 a year sale or prescription and use? Assistant Secretary 13795 a year Deputy Chief Steward 17 195 a year Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) Senior Steward 15 764 a year ·-The answer is: Administration (2) 11 728 a year each Prostaglandins intended for use in livestock Public Service rates apply for Travelling are controlled under schedule 7 of the Poisons allowance and mileage. The Secretary Act 1962. This schedule is very restrictive and receives an allowance of $1300 a year. in the case of prostaglandins intended for use In addition, the board employs part-time in livestock their use is restricted to veterinary employees at an hourly rate as required. surgeons and their distribution and supply is 5686 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY restricted to authorized persons such as phar­ The Fitzroy Group Homemaker project will macists or to specifically licensed deals in be funded for $22000 in 1981 which will allow schedule 7 poisons. A transcript of the pro­ the project to be maintained at the current visions follows:- level of service. Part VIII-Prostaglandin Products-Synchroni­ zation of Oestrus. INFORMATION ABOUT 1. The manufacture and sale of prostaglan­ PRIV ATE CITIZENS din products are prohibited except by persons licensed in that behalf pursuant to the Act. (Question No. 857) 2. The distribution of all prostaglandin pro­ Mr CAIN (Bundoora) asked the Min­ ducts is prohibited except by a person licensed ister for Minerals and Energy: in that behalf pursuant to the Act. Whether the State Electricity Commission 3. The possession of any prostaglandin pro­ supplies some twenty public authorities with duct is prohibited exceptby:- information about pnvate citizens; if so, what (a) any authorized person; information is provided to what authorities and (b) any person for whom such prostaglan­ what guidelines exist to control the use and din product has been dispensed by an author­ disposal of this information? ized person in pursuance of the written pre­ Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for scription of a veterinary surgeon, and then Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: only to the extent prescribed; or In April 1976 the State Electricity Com­ (c) any person to whom such prostaglandin mission established its "Guidelines for the Pro­ product has been supplied by a veterinary tection of Personal Information". These were surgeon, and then only to the extent so sup­ designed to give maximum protection to all plied. personal information held by the commission 4. The use of any prostaglandin product is about its employees and the public. The guide­ prohibited except by registered veterinary sur­ lines covered steps to be taken to protect that geons or by other persons acting under the personal information from unauthorised access direction of a veterinary surgeon. and clearly defined the very limited circum­ stances under which such information might be released. FITZROY GROUP HOMEMAKER You may have read a report in the Melbourne PROJECT Herald dated 19 November 1980 entitled, "SEC can tell about you" which dealt with the com­ (Question No. 855) mission's submission to the Australian Law Reform Commission at its public hearing in Mr SIDIROPOULOS (Richmond) Melbourne on that day. The report included the asked the Minister for Community Wel­ statement that "about 20 Government authori­ ties can get information about you from the fare Services: SEC". 1. Whether he is aware of the financial This newspaper report completely misrepre­ difficulties of the Fitzroy Grouo Homemaker sents the basic intention of the commission'S Project, which has sought $33 000 for family guidelines, which are to prohibit the release support services? of any personal information, except in certain 2. As the Inner Urban Regional Consultative strictly defined and legitimate circumstances. Council has taken the stand that family sup­ The guidelines list certain authorities which, port services should not be supported by family by law, have the right to require whatever and community services funds, whether he will information as is necessary for the proper exer­ ensure that the State Government provides cise of their function. It is emphasized that sufficient funds for the Fitzroy Group Home­ these authorities can require such information maker Project for the 1980-81 financial year? to be provided to them by any company, authority or individual, not only the com­ Mr JONA (Minister for Community mission. Welfare Services)-The answer is: The authorities listed in the guidelines-four 1 and 2. As previously announced, additional Commonwealth and eight State-are as funds have been made available by the Gov­ follows: ernment for family support services for the Commonwealth- coming year. These funds have been used to Australian Customs match Regional Consultative Committee recom­ Australian Taxation Office mendations for community service grants to be Department of Veterans' Affairs given to Family Support Services with an allow­ Social Security Department ance for cost increases, thereby releasing a'pproximately $250000 for more general com­ State- munity service usage. Auditor General Consumer Affairs Bureau Having sought a range of advice upon Health Commission regional needs, I have approved funding to Land Tax Office Family Support Services as announced in my Minister for Minerals and Energy press release of 9 December 1980. (Ministerial Inquiries) 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5687

Ombudsman Mr KENNETI (Minister of Housing)­ Probate Duties Office Public Trustee (only if appointed as Trus­ l1he answer is: tee of a deceased's or mentally infirm 1. It was planned to purchase eight houses person's estate). in the Diamond Valley area during the 197~0 Spot Purchase Programme. Three real estate Police acting in the execution of their duties agents in the area who were approached indi­ also have the right to require information to cated that there was a very limited suitable be provided to them. housing stock. It should be noted that the commission does Eighteen houses were inspected, the majority not volunteer information to these authorities, of which were found to be structurally un­ but only responds when proper questions, suitable or did not meet cost budget require­ deemed to be relevant to the function of the ments. Of the five properties considered suitable authority concerned, are received. The requests for purchase, three were sold prior to an offer are granted only after their authenticity has being made and the vendor did not accept the been verified and, furthermore, the amount of maximum offer on the remaining two. information released is kept to the minimum 2. Yes; consideration was given to these necessary to provide a complete and accurate factors. answer to the questions posed. 3. No. The "Guidelines for the Protection of Per­ sonal Information" were issued in April 1976 to all employees in the commission having responsibility for the custody or processing FIRE INSURANCE of personal information. These guidelines deal (Question No. 864) with the protection of personal information from unauthorised access and include pro­ Mr CRABB (Knox) asked the Minister visions relating to the collection, accuracy, fur Police land Emergency Services: security, transmittal, retention and ultimate destruction of this information in a manner 1. In each of the past five financial years appropriate to its sensitivity. Officers respon­ what amount was collected by way of fire sible for maintaining records which contain per­ brigade levies on insurance policies and which sonal information are reminded regularly of part of this was allocated to the Country Fire their accountability for the protection of that Authority? information at all times. 2. What are the comparable estimated It is perhaps noteworthy that both Mr W. J. figures for the present financial year? Orme, an executive member of the New South Wales Privacy Committee and Mr Justice Kirby Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police of the Australian Law Reform Commission have and Emergency Services)-The answer commended the commission on its initiative is: and responsible action with regard to the pro­ tection of personal information and on the high The Metropolitan Fire Brigade Act requires standard of its guidelines on this topic. insurance companies insuring against fire pro­ perty in the metropolitan district to contribute three-quarters of the annual operating expendi­ SPOT PURCHASE PROGRAMME ture of the Metropolitan Fire Brigades Board. (Question No. 858) The Country Fire Authority Act requires in­ Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked surance companies insuring against fire pro­ perty in the country area of Victoria tQ con­ the Minister of Housing: tribute two-thirds of the annual operating In respect of the Housing Commission spot expenditure of the Country Fire Authority. purchase programme for which $3 million was As a matter of practice the insurance com­ allocated in 1979~0: panies raise the required contributions by way 1. What specific consideration was given to of a levy on fire insurance premiums. The con­ the purchase of houses in the Diamond Valley tributions required to be made by insurance and Eltham municipalities, indicating why no companies in the past five financial years and houses were purchased in that area, although the estimated contributions for the current there is presently no stock of public housing? financial year are as follows: 2. Whether consideration was given to the MFBB CFA well-developed social infra-structure within the ($) ($) Diamond Valley and Eltham area, the existence of community facilities and the desire to provide 1975--76 .. 17623500 7988849 for its own residents within the area, rather 1976-77 .. 19315500 10199653 than exporting people to welfare housing in other areas? 1977-78 .. 22417500 12404449 1978-79 .. 23738250 14619748 3. Whether the commission will undertake spot purchase in the Diamond Valley-Eltham 1979~0 .. 27876750 16445985 area during this current financial year? 198~1 .. 33062250 19321965 5688 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

FLUORIDATION COUNSELLING, GUIDANCE AND (Question No. 869) CLINICAL CENTRES Mr COLEMAN (Syndal) asked the (Question No. 879) Premier: lVlr TREZISE (Geelong North) asked In respect of the report of the Committee of the Assistant Minister of Education: Inquiry into the Fluoridation of Victorian Water 1. What are the procedures involved in Supplies, recently tabled in the House, and establishing new counselling, guidance and his subsequent statement made on that report: clinical services centres? 1. Whether he will take steps to remove the 2. Whether there has been a need estab­ "no responsibility clause" of ,the relevant Act? lished for such centres at Momington and 2. Whether his statement that fluoride is an Scoresby; if so, how such a decision was essential nutrient is consistent with the conclu­ arrived at and whether the decision is based sion drawn by the committee in its report; if on pre-submitted files and/or documents, and, not, what is the basis of the statement? in that event, whether these documents will be 3. How many claims in the cities of Can­ made available for scrutiny? berra, Sydney and Melbourne were medically 3. What priority has the proposed Corio investigated to support the claim made in his centre? statement? 4. When it is expected that the Corio centre 4. What treatment is available for disfigur­ will be established? ing fluorosis and whether any compensation for 5. What are the full priority listings of this mottling effect is available to people so counselling, guidance and clinical services affected? centres? Mr HAMER (Premier)-The answer Mr LACY (Minister of Educational is: Services)-The answer is: 1. The intent of section 4 of the Health I, in my capacity as the Minister of Educa­ (Fluoridation) Act 1973 is to prevent frivolous tional Services, advised the honourable mem­ legal action being taken in an endeavour to ber by letter dated 27 February 1981 as fol­ prevent fluoridation of the water supplies. No lows: amendment will be made to the Act. 1. Until January 1981, counselling, guidance and clinical services centr,~s were being estab­ 2. Yes. lished in local areas as staff and accommoda­ tion became available. They were established 3. No reports have been received from regis­ according to the priority list developed by the tered medical practitioners claiming a patient Assistant Director of Special Services (coun­ has suffered adverse medical effects due to selling, guidance and clinical services); the fluoridation in any of these centres. ultimate aim being to provide adequate coun­ 4. "Disfiguring fluorosis" is not found in selling, guidance and clinical services to all communities fluoridated at the recommended communities in the State. level, so that the question of compensation does 2. A need has been established for centres not arise. Defects in tooth structure which can at Momington and Scoresby, based upon the be caused by factors quite unrelated to number of schools and pupils in those areas, fluoride, are treated by established conservative the special schools and facilities which required dental procedures. servicing, sodo-economic factors and migrant population density. LASER SAFETY 3. The establishment of the Corio centre had (Question No. 874) a high priority. 4 and 5. I am pleased to announce that the Dr COGHILL (Werribee) asked the establishment of these resource centres has Minister of Health: been accelerated. Early in 1980, I set in train, a plan to What safety standards and controls for the investigate the establishment of a special as­ use of lasers have been introduced, indicating sistance programme to support schools in their whether the controls implement Australian efforts to improve the levels of literacy and Standard A.S.2211-1978 "Laser Safety"? numeracy with particular emphasis upon those children who were seen to be having particular Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) difficulties in these fields. Already, as part -The answer is: implementation of the special assistance prog­ ramme, I have arranged for the appointment Nil. A.S.2211-1978 is regarded as a useful of 570 special assistance resource teachers in guide in the area of lasers. primary schools throughout the State. As a further contribution to this programme, and The subject comes within the terms of following receipt of a report of a working party reference of the Consultative Council on Radia­ which considered the rationalisation of coun­ tion Safety. This council is expected to con­ selling, guidance and clinical services and sider the topic of laser safety, shortly. special education unit facilities, I have decided 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5689 to amalgamate these services into one multi­ LATROBE VALLEY-PORTLAND divisional, multi-disciplinary, inter-systemic re­ POWER LINE source centre. I have called for a proposal set­ ting out the procedures for implementing the (Question No. 886) establishment of one of these resource centres in each one of the fifty inspectorial districts in Dr VAUGHAN (Glenhuntly) asked the State. Because of the shortage of qualified the Minister for Minerals and Energy: staff, it may be necessary to introduce full services from some centres on a gradual basis. 1. What is the estimate of cost of the 500kV However, negotiations have commenced al­ power transmission line from the Latrobe Valley ready to establish a building for a proposed to Portland? Corio centre and an interim allocation of staff to service the Corio district has already been 2. What is the estimate of cost of each of made from the Geelong counselling, guidance the three major switchyards required by the and clinical services centre. line? 3. What is the cost of alterations to the BUSH NURSING ASSOCIATION existing 220kV system to allow for the new line construction, and what is the breakdown (Question No. 880) of these costs? Mr ROPER {Brunswick) asked the 4. What is the cost of providing the static Minister of Health: compensators and other voltage regulating In respect of the Victorian Bush Nursing devices necessary to overcome the electrical Association and hospitals operated under the problems the new lines will create? auspices of the association, whether the future policy of the Health Commission is currently Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for under review; if so, when it is expected that Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: a decision will be made and whether he will inform the member for Brunswick of the 1. Transmission lines from the Latrobe Val­ decision? ley to Melbourne supply the Melbourne load Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) centre and the general Victorian State grid to which the lines to Portland will be con­ -The answer is: nected. No new transmission lines from the Following the establishment of the Health Latrobe Valley to Melbourne are being in­ Commission of Victoria, a hospitals develop­ stalled specifically to supply Portland. ment team was set up to review the needs of all hospitals, including hospitals under the The additional transmission works from Mel­ auspices of the Victorian Bush Nursing Associa­ bourne being constructed specifically to supply tion. Portland comprise a single circuit 500kV trans­ mission line with associated line circuit Reviews of hospitals throughout the State breakers from Melbourne (Sydenham) to Gee­ is still continuing. However, when a decision long (Moorabool) and a double circuit 500kV is reached the member for Brunswick will be transmission line with associated line circuit informed. breakers and line reactors from Moorabool to Portland. The estimated cost of these trans­ WARRNAMBOOL EARLY mission works is $176'6 million, allowing for CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT overheads and cost escalation to 1983. PROGRAMME 2. Of the three major switchyards associated (Question No. 884) with the Portland development, the switchyard at Portland is solely Alcoa's responsibility. at Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the their cost. Minister of Health: The costs of the two switchyards which the Whether during a visit to Warrnambool, he commission will construct at Sydenham and was informed of staff shortages and other Moorabool are estimated to cost $6'9 million problems in the Early Childhood Development and $16·5 million, respectively, allowing for Programme at Warrnambool, particularly the overheads and cost escalation to 1983, in lack of pre-school field officers, the lack of a addition to the line equipment included in the regionally based infant welfare advisor, prob­ transmission works costs above. lems of adequate office accommodation in Portland, shortages in speech therapy, and 3. There are no alterations necessary to the shortages of school nurses; if so, what action existing 220kV system to allow for the new has been taken to remedy each of these defi­ line construction. ciencies? 4. The voltage regulating devices required Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) for the new line are 500kV and 220kV fixed -The answer is: reactors and these costs are included in the No. The proposed visit by the honourable the transmission and station works costs listed in Assistant Minister of Health to discuss the the answers to 1 and 2 above. Static compensa­ Early Childhood Development Programme did tors are not required to be installed on account not eventU"lte. of these lines. 5690 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

WARD SURVEYS Mr BORTHWI~K (Minister of Health) (Question No. 889) -The answer is; The proprietor If'a food premises is required Mrs TONER (GreenS'borough) asked to keep a copy f the Cleanliness (Foods, the Minister for Community Welfare Drugs and Subst ces) Regulations 1975 on Servi'ces: the premises; and to display copies of schedules A and B of the regulations. The What is the progress of the pilot study regulations, and the schedules are printed in being conducted for a full-scale ward survey English. It is considered doubtful that direct designed to show ways in which each ward's translation of the regulations and schedules present care C9uld be improved with particular (except schedule B) would serve any useful reference to physically, mentally or education­ purpose as meanings can be altered and lost in ally handicapped wards, indicatmg those types the translation. A working party within the of currently availahle welfare community or Health Commission of Victoria is looking at the correctional resources which could have pre­ possibility of simplifying the philosophies in vented admission to wardship or would make schedule A and producing a display able notice home release or discharge from wardship in simple English. Such a notice will be more ·possible? amenable to translation. Mr JONA (Minister for Com'munity Welfare Services)-The answer is: INTERNATIONAL AGENCY FOR RESEARCH ON CANCER The pilot study, which tested a research design for a census of State Wards was com­ (Question No. 900) pleted in April 1978. Mr HOCKLEY (Bentleigh) asked the Using the results of this study, a compre­ hensive ward census was conducted on 30 June Minister of Health: 1979. The aim of the census was to provide Whether the International Agency for Re­ a profile of the ward population on an search on Cancer, the recipient of financial "average" day, The data collected, besides its support from the Commonwealth Government, immediate appl'ication, will be used to establish is to investigate fluoride and formaldehyde as trends in wardship in the years to come. possible causes of cancer; if so, why the Com­ The data collected will enable an analysis mittee of Inquiry into Fluoridation of Victorian of the personal characteristics of wards-sex, Water Supplies makes no reference to this age, country of birth, ethnic background, and agency in its report, and apparently made no handicap-and such matters as education, contact with that agency? employment, reason for admission, placement, regional address of the wards' parents and Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) contact between wards and their parents. -The answer is: . The census was conducted on a regional The Committee of Inquiry into Fluoridation basis. All questionnaires were completed in of Victorian Water Supplies was established regional offices, except for 324 wards who were by, and reported to, the honourable the Premier. the responsibility of a reception centre or the I am unable to say why the committee makes adoption section, or whose whereabouts were no reference to the International Agency for not known. The information in these cases Research on Cancer in its report, or whether came from the Head Office registry, reception it made contact with the agency. centres and the adoption section. I understand that the International Agency The results of this census are currently being for Research on Cancer has previously investi­ studied by officers of my department. It is gated fluoride as a possible cause of cancer anticipated that a report of die ward census and has determined that fluoride is not related will be published by May 1981. to cancer. Ongoing research is, however, being carried HEALTH REGULATIONS out by the International Agency for Research on Cancer into any possible association between (Question No. 891) formaldehyde and cancer. This research is being carried out at the Biology Division, Oak Mr GAVIN (Coburg) asked the Ridge National Laboratory, Tennessee, U.S.A. and at Batelle Laboratories, Columbus, Ohio, Minister of Health: U.S.A. Whether he is aware that in order to comply with the law the proprietor of food premises is required to have a copy of the Health Re­ McDONALD'S FOOD STORES gulations on the premises, but the law does (Question No. 907) not provide that he shall be able to read or understand the contents whic)l are printed in Mr CULPIN (Glenroy) asked the English; if so, as a majority of such proprietors in the City of Coburg are of non-English Minister of Health: speaking origin, will he take action to ensure Whether any recent checks have been made that the Health Regulations are printed in of the nutritional value and the cholesterol other languages? content of products from the food industry 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5691 company, McDonald's; if so, what are t~e PROPOSED COMMITTEE TASK details of these checks; if not, whether he WIll GROUP ensure that such checks are carried out? (Question No. 913) Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) Mr CULPIN (G lenroy) asked the -The answer is: Premier: No. In respect of part 4 of the answer to question Since there are no statutory standar.ds for No. 636 given on 27 November 1980 regarding such products in respect of nutritional value a study of social resources rlanning and co­ and cholesterol content such a testing pro­ ordination in the City 0 Broadmeadows gramme would not normally be contemplated. whether he will precisely indicate which study is referred to, indicating- (a) who compiled the study; GROUP HOMES FOR MENTALLY (b) when the study was carried out; and RETARDED PEOPLE (c) which community groups contributed to the study? (Question No. 910) Mr HAMER (Premier)-The answer Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the is: Minister of Health: The study referred to in my answer to ques­ Further to his answer to question No. 896 on tion No. 636 is "A Study of Social Resources 25 March 1980 and recorded in Hansard at Planning and Co-ordination in the City of page 7396, what is the location of e~ch. grC!up Broadmeadows" . home for mentally retarded people, mdlcatmg (a) The study was compiled by the Special in each case the number of people accom­ Task Group on Social Resources Planning modated? established by the State Co-ordination Council. Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) (b) The study was undertaken in 1977 and -The answer is: 1978. (c) and (d) The study team was in contact (a) Bendigo-Housing adults, 97 Rowan with representatives of a number of community Street, Bendigo, provides long stay, five-day groups within the City of Broadmeadows as week stay, emergency and sho.rt stay, as re­ indicated in its report, a copy of which has quired. As at 30-9-80, eleven reSIdents had u~ed been supplied to the member for Glenroy. the facility. An average of four people reSIde in the house at anyone time. CARRONBANK SPECIAL SCHOOL (b) Bendigo-Housing children, 45 Race Street, Bendigo, provides long stay, five-day PLANNING COMMITTEE REPORT week stay, emergency and short stay, and (Question No. 918) normally has three residents, with temporary and/or emergency placement as required. As Mr MATHEWS (Oakleigh) asked the at 30-9-80, fourteen residents had used the Assistant Minister of Education: facility. Whether consideration has been given to the (c) Echuca-l44 High Street, Echuca, pro­ July 1980 report of the Carronbank Special vides three places for long stay and five-day School Planning Committee; if so-(a) on what week stay, and three places for short stay and date; (b) by whom; and (c) with what results? emergency stay. An average of five people Mr LACY (Minister of Educational reside in the house at anyone time. As at Services)-The answer is: 30-9-80, 35 residents had used the facility. I, in my capacity as the Minister of Educa­ (d) Kyneton-29 Jennings Street, Kyneton, tional Services, advised the honourable member provides four places for long stay and five-day by letter dated 2 March 1981 as follows: week stay and two places for short stay and The report of the Carronbank Special School emergency stay. An average of six people Planning Committee has been considered by:- reside in the house at anyone time. As at 30-9-80 eleven residents had used the facility. (i) The Carronbank School Council on a number of occasions and recommendations (e) Swan Hill-6 Foster Street, Swan Hill, adopted. has six places for five-day week stay, two places (H) The Glen Waverley SpeCial School for emergency stay and six places for weekend Council on a number of occasions and the short stay. An average of six people reside recommendations have been agreed to in in the house at anyone time. As at 30-9-80, prinCiple. seventeen residents had used the facility. (Hi) A committee under the chairmanship of (1) Mildura-3 Currawong Court, Mildura, the Deputy Director of Special Services, Or provides six permanent places and will accom­ Dale, consisted of Senior SpeCial Education modate two additional people on an emergency/ Officer, Mr C. Laity; Principal of Carronbank, short term basis. As at 30-9-80, sixteen resi­ Mr M. OsIer; Principal of Glen Waverley dents had used the facility. Special School, Mr J. Hooker; Glen Waverley 5692 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

School Council member, Mr J. Higgins; Carron­ The Shire of Bellarine on 10 December 1980 bank School Council member, Mr P. Russell, advised that they have selected an alternative and representative of the Spastic Society, Mr site at the corner of Dorward Avenue and Wil­ R. Gronman. son's Road, Newcomb. This committee met on 26 September 1980 When the alternative site has been approved and 24 October 1980. by the commission it will be necessary to ob­ It was unanimously agreed that Carronbank tain Commonwealth Government approval to Special School should occupy five rooms at vary tb~ approved project. the Glen Waverley Special School as soon as the Yarrabah Special Developmental School is Also, the erection of the clubrooms must be relocated in its own premises. in accordance with the plans and speCifications The Carron bank School Council provided a approved by the commission. list of alterations required for suitable accom­ 3. An application for a capital subsidy to­ modation at Glen Waverley to Dr Dale for wards the cost of establishing the Newcomb consideration. Senior Citizens' Club was submitted by the Alterations to buildings at Glen Waverley Shire of Bellarine on 11 July 1977. The esti­ Special School to accommodate Carronbank mated cost was then $217000 and has now have been authorized. increased to $241 000. NEWCOMB SENIOR CITIZENS' 4. It is common knowledge that a Super­ market/Community Centre Complex is to be CLUBROOMS constructed by Silverton Ltd on a 2· 5-hectare (Question No. 920) council-owned site on the corner of BeUarine Highway and Wilson's Road, Newcomb. Mr ERNST (Geelong East) asked the The inclusion of an area for senior citizens Minister of Health: in the complex will be noted by the com­ In relation to the proposed senior citizens' mission, however this will have no bearing on c1ubrooms in Newcomb as announced by the the approved project nor will it need to comply Commonwealth Government: with the commission's requirements for elderly 1. Whether the State Government is pro­ citizens' clubs. viding a grant to this project; if so, what amount? 2. What is the precise location of this project, INFANT DEATH SYNDROME and what is the criteria for clubroom buildings (Question No. 922) in this area? 3. Whether the Bellarine Shire Council has Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the made submissions to the Health Commission for Minister of Health: the establishment of senior citizen clubrooms at Newcomb; if so, what are the details of such In respect of the sudden infant death submissions? syndrome: 4. Whether he is aware of the proposed 1. Whether the Health Commission has supermarket/community building to be de­ sponsored any research; if so, when, by whom, veloped at the corner of Wilsons and Queens­ and at what expense? cliff road, Newcomb, and the inclusion of elderly citizens' clubrooms as part of that de­ 2. Whether a submission has been received velopment; if so, whether the eligibility of from the Sudden Infant Death Research grants from the Commonwealth or State Gov­ Foundation; if so, what response was made to ernments will be affected due to the involve­ the submission? ment of private enterprise in this development, or the Government's criteria or standard for the 3. Whether it is intended to provide a grant clubrooms not being met? to the foundation or to research in this area in another way? Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) -The answer is: 4. Whether funds are available for counsell­ ing and related services to families who suffer 1. The State Government subsidy towards from a sudden infant death? this approved project (No. 199) will be the maximum available of $10000, allocated for Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) payment in the 1982-83 financial year. -The answer is: 2. The site for the proposed Newcomb Senior Citizens' Club, at the time of application for 1. No. subsidy was at the corner of Bellarine Highway and Wilson's Road, Newcomb. This site was 2 and 3. A submission has been received approved for the erection of an Elderly Citizens' from the Sudden Infant Death Research Club by the commission on 8 October 1977. Foundation and this is under consideration. As the Supermarket/Community Centre Com­ 4. Not specifically. It is considered that plex is now to be constructed on this site an counselling and related services to families who alternative site will need to be obtained for suffer from a sudden death can be provided by the Newcomb Senior Citizens' Club. services currently available. 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5693

INDUSTRIAL DECENTRALIZATION request, the Public Works Department have prepared plans and specifications to improve (Question No. 923) both areas by providing additional professional Mr A. T. EVANS (Ballarat North) visit rooms, public toilets and facilities for staff. asked the Minister for State Develop­ Funds totalling $17800 are being sought to ment, Decentralization and Tourism: complete this high priority project. 3. No. However, my department considers 1. How many decentralized industries have that once the work proposed is undertaken, been approved for Ballarat since the Govern­ visiting facilities will equal or exceed facilities ment introduced the ten point plan to assist at most prisons and be most acceptable. country towns? 2. How many of these industries use (a) natural gas; (b) electricity; and (c) both SUB-OFFICE FOR GREENSBOROUGH natural gas and electricity? (Question No. 928) Mr I. W. SMITH (Minister for Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked State Development, Decentralization the Minister for Community Welfare and Tourism) -The answer is: Services: 1. 89. Whether a regional sub-office of the Depart­ 2. (a) 22. ment of Community Welfare Services for the (b) 89. Preston region will be established at Greens­ borough in 1980-81; if not, why? (c) 22. Mr JONA (Minister for Community HOME SAVINGS GRANTS Welfare Services)-The answer is: (Question No. 924) It is the intention of my department to estab­ lish a Greensborough sub-office in 1980-81. Mr CATHIE (Carrum) asked the Min­ To assist with the staffing of this office two ister of Housing: new staff have been appointed and these, with How many Victorian first home buyers other staff from the North Eastern Suburbs received or were entitled to receive grants Regional Centre at Preston, will transfer to under the Commonwealth Home Savings Grant Greensborough immediately suitable accommo­ Act 1976 each year for the past three years dation is available. It is also intended to pro­ to date? vide a senior social worker at SW4 level to be Officer-In-Charge at Greensborough and Mr KENNETT (Minister of Housing)­ thus ensure appropriate levels of staffing in The answer is: what will be a relatively large sub-office. The request for this position is currently under The Home Savings Grant Scheme is ad­ consideration by the Public Service Board. ministered by the Commonwealth Government. The information requested may be obtained The task of finding suitable accommodation from the Commonwealth Department of Hous­ in Greensborough, in which to locate the sub­ ing and Construction. office, is being undertaken by the Public Works Department and I have requested that my department ensure that the matter is resolved F AIRLEA PRISON in the very near future. (Question No. 927) Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked MORWELL RIVER PRISON FARM the Minister for Community Welfare (Question No. 929) Services: Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked 1. When the visiting section of Fairlea the Minister for Community Welfare Prison was last updated? Services: 2. When improvements are likely to be made? Further to the answer to question No. 489 regarding the Morwell River Prison Farm given 3. Whether any evaluation has been made of on 5 November 1980, in which he indicated the psychological and sociological effects of that two prison officers were involved in super­ the present visiting conditions on the rehabili­ vising approximately 40 prisoners working on tation of prisoners? re-afforestation work whilst only one prison Mr JONA (Minister for Community officer remained in the prison camp to super­ vise the rest of the prisoners, whether he is Welfare Services)-The answer is: aware that on the day in question weather con­ 1. Fairlea Female Prison was ooened in 1956 ditions were such that no prisoners were en­ and since that date only minor renovations gaged in re-afforestation work and that all to visiting facilities have been undertaken. inmates were at the prison farm itself, under 2. There are two visiting areas at Fairlea the supervision of only one officer; if so, Female Prison, one for professional visits and whether he will ensure that no repetition of another for family visits. At departmental such short staffing re-occurs? 5694 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Mr JONA (Minister for Community SCHOOL EDUCATION OFFICERS Welfare Services)-The answer is: (Question No. 931) Unfortunately in my reply to question No. 489 Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked it had been inaccurately conveyed to the honourable member that prisoners were absent the Minister for Community Welfare from the prison on 2 September 1980 and Services: were engaged in re-afforestation work. I can 1. How many positions as school education now confirm that due to inclement weather officer (formerly attendance officer) are avail­ on that day, no prisoners were employed out­ able, indicating how many of these positions side the prison. are unfilled and the regions? However, the honourable mem.ber's belief that 2. What training/education facilities are there was only one officer a.vaIla~le ~o su~er­ made available to these officers to ensure that vi se the 74 inmates at the prIson IS misleadIng. they possess the special expertise necessary? It is likely that t~e honourable r:nem~er 3. What provision is made in the way of gained a false imp.resslOn of the st~ff situation effective support staff for school education at the prison. It IS true that a sIngle officer officers to provide assistance in the areas of was supervising the actual prison area that day. correspondence and general office procedure? However during the 0700 to 1700 shift when the hono~rable member was visiting the prison, 4. Whether he will indicate the percentage of a total of seven officers were on duty. non-attending school children ac~ual1y int~r­ viewed by officers, and the baSIS on which On that day a substantial amount of move­ schools in this region are visited? ment took place outside the prison. It in­ cluded a trip to Sale Prison by two staff Mr JONA (Minister for Community members to collect an escort, a trip to Mir~oo Welfare Services)-The answer is: North Hospital with a prisoner for medical l. There are twenty-seven attendance offi­ treatment, the receipt of stores .from the Pent­ cers in Victoria; sixteen in the eight metro­ ridge van and the officers escortmg the honour­ politan regions, one in each of the ten country able member. These officers would have been regions. There is one attendance officer attached on duty at the prison when their outside tasks to the Protective Services Unit as is the senior were completed. attendance officer. All positions are filled; how­ ever one attendance officer, at the inner eastern SMALL BUSINESS regi~n has been on extended sick leave since DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION September 1980. 2. The Protective Service Unit is responsible (Question No. 930) for co-ordinating the initial training and con­ Mr ROSS-EDWARDS (Leader of the tinuing in-service training of attendance officers. There were five days available for attendan~e National Party) ·asked the Minister of officers' training during 1980, this number wIll State Development. Decentralization be doubled for 1981 and in addition several and Tourism: . seminars, specifically for attendance officers, will be held during the year. The traIning course Further to the answer to question No. 684 for 1981 is currently being formulated with the given on 18 November 1980: Institute of Community Welfare. 1. Whether the Small Bu~iness Development 3. Attendance officers work from regional Corporation made submisslOns-(a) on the centres and share support facilities available proposed increases in stamp. duty on t~e sa!e at the centres. of new and used motor vehicles contaIned In 4. I am not able to indicate the percentage the 1979 State Budget; (b) on the Business of non-attending school children interviewed Franchise (Petroleum Produ~ts) Bill; (c) t~ .the Technical Advisory Committee on RetailIng; by attendance officers .in relation to the total number of non-attending school children. It is (d) on the Transport (Dereg.ulation) Bill; .an~ (e) on changes to shop tradIng hours as Indi­ policy that attendance officers regularly visit cated in the Governor's speech on 9 September every school in each region to discuss all 1980? absences. 2. Whether he will allow any such submis­ TRUGANINA GRAZING LEASE sions to be studied in the Library? (Question No. 932) Mr SMITH (Minister of State Mr CAIN (Bundoora) asked the Min­ Development. Decent~alization and ister of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, Tourism)-The ~nswer IS: for the Minister of Lands: 1. (a) and (b)-No. 1. Who is the present licensee under Grazing Lease No. 01839 in the Parish of Truganina? (c) The corporation was. represented .~n the Technical Advisory Committee on RetaIlmg. 2. When the licence was granted and at what annual rental? (d) The matter is presently under considera­ tion by the Legislation Committee. 3. When the licence was granted, whether there were any, and if so, how many, other (e) Yes. tenders received, and what was the amount 2. Yes. of each tender? 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5695

Mr WOOD (Minister of Immigration siders should be permitted to accompany the unconvicted prisoner on remand and the con­ and Ethnic Affairs)-The answer victed prisoner after sentence. supplied by the Minister of Lands is: When these listings have been completed The Grazing Licence referred to was termi­ they will be considered by the department in nated on 30 September, 1978, and the land in conjunction with the presently approved list of question has not been grazed since. items. A revised list will be established for embodiment in an amended information booklet FUNDING PROJECT, COBURG which is available to prisoners upon initial reception. (Question No. 936) Mr GAVIN (Coburg) asked the Min­ RESOURCES USE AND ister of Youth, Sport and Recreation: MANAGEMENT STUDIES In view of the answer to question No. 501 (Question No. 944) given on 5 November 1980, and reported in Hansard at page 2190, why he has approved Mr WILKES -(Leader of the Oppo'si­ another project? tion) asked the Premier: 2. Why this particular project is more What is the administrative relationship be­ acceptable than the Coburg City Council pro­ tween the Latrobe Valley Strategy Plan and posal for development of the Harold Stevens the Study of Resources Use and Environmental Athletic Track? Management in Gippsland? Mr DIXON (Minister for Youth, Sport Mr HAMER (Premier)-The answer and Recreation)-The answer is: is: 1. Officers and councillors of the Shire of Arapiles, at a deputation in July, drew to my There is a close working relationship attention the need for financial assistance for between the Latrobe Valley Strategy Plan Task a grouped project application containing seven Force and the Study of Resources Use and specific recreation developments. I approved a Environmental Management in Gippsland Study subsidy of $7000 on a $1 for $1 basis towards Teams. In some cases shared staff are used the cost of top dressing the oval and providing for both studies. a watering system to the Natimuk Agricultural and Pastoral Society grounds. This project was LATROBE VALLEY STRATEGY PLAN approved because: (Question No. 945) (i) the Shire of ArapiJes had received no fund­ ing at all for major municipal projects from the Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ department; tion) asked the Premier: (ii) the development would provide a facility for a wide range of sporting activities; and In respect of the Latrobe Valley Strategy Plan: (iii) the oval was in a very dilapidated condition. 1. Who is funding the plan? 2. The project was funded principally be­ 2. What government agencies constitute the cause the Shire had received no funds from planning group? the department and had sought a subsidy of 3. What contributions (in man hours) each only $7000. The application by the City of of these agencies has made to date? Coburg to develop the Harold Stevens Athletic Track sought an allocation of $97 000. 4. Who is co-ordinating the plan? 5. What is its projected completion date? REMAND PRISONERS 6. Whether there will be any public par­ (Question No. 940) ticipation before publication? 7. Whether there will be any public par­ Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked ticipation after publication? the Minister for Community Welfare Mr HAMER (Premier)-The answer Services: is: What is the progress of negotiations with the Victorian Association for the Care and 1. The Government of Victoria. Rehabilitation of Offenders in respect of the 2. Department of Minerals and Energy. issue of a booklet to remand prisoners review­ Ministry of Conservation ing and updating the property items which can Department of Planning accompany an offender to a remand situation State Electricity Commission of Victoria or convicted situation within the prison system? Treasury Mr JONA (Minister for Community Ministry for Water Resources and Water Supply Welfare Services)-The answer is: Ministry for Transport The Victorian Association for the Care and Ministry for Housing Resettlement of Offenders is in the process of State Co-ordination Council compiling lists of property items which it con- Brown Coal Council 5696 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

Department of Community Welfare Ser­ to-day co-ordination of the study is under­ vices taken by the study manager from the Ministry Ministry for Economic Development. for Conservation. 3. Each agency contributes as and when 5. June 1981. required. No record of individual input has 6 and 7. The study is aimed at providing in­ been kept. formation which will assist both the govern­ 4. The Ministry for Economic Development. ment and the public in their deliberations con­ 5. June 1981. cerning the Latrobe Valley. As the study is not likely to produce any guidelines or policies 6. Three workshops have been held in the which will affect the public, participation at Latrobe Valley to ascertain the major issues this stage did not seem necessary especially as confronting the local people. The public will opportunities exist within the strategy plan also be kept generally informed through the exercise for the public to provide its input. involvement of Councils in the Latrobe Valley Consultative Committee. REPORTS ON ENVIRONMENT 7. The document will be made available to the public, and persons who so wish may com­ (Question No. 947) ment. Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ 'tion) asked the Premier: RESOURCES USE AND Whether any reports have been commissioned MANAGEMENT STUDIES by the Latrobe Valley Strategy Plan or the Study of Resource Use and Environmental Man­ (Question No. 946) agement in Gippsland; if so, who are the Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ authors and what are the titles of the reports? tion) asked the Premier: Mr HAMER (Premier)-The answer In respect of the Study of Resource Use is: and Environmental Management in Gippsland: 1. Yes. Latrobe Valley Strategy Plan. Environmental Protection Authority-Re­ 1. Who is funding the study? port on Background Industrial and 2. What government agencies constitute the Urban Noise. study group? Victorian Archaeological Survey and 3. What contributions (in man hours) each of Richard Aitken-Report on Areas of these agencies has made to date? Archaeological and Historic Significance. 4. Who is co-ordinating the study? Soil Conservati()n Authority-Report on 5. What is its projected completion date? Land Capability for Urban Rural Resi­ 6. Whether there will be any public par­ dential and Agricultural development. ticipation before publication? Department of Minerals and Energy­ 7. Whether there will be any public par­ Report on Extractive Industries. ticipation after publication? Report on Areas of Environmental signifi­ cance. Mr HAMER (Premier)-The answer Part 1. Zoological Significance: Author­ is: Fisheries and Wildlife., Part 2. Botanical Significance: Author­ 1. The study is funded within the Ministry National Herbarium. for Conservation's Environmental Studies Pro­ Part 3. Geomorphological and Geological gramme. Significance: Authors-University of 2. Ministry for Conservation Melbourne, Geography Department. Ministry for Water Resources and Water 2. Study of Resource Use and Environmental Supply Management in Gippsland. Environment Protection Authority Centre for Environmental Studies, Uni­ Brown Coal Council versity of Melbourne-Environmental Department of Planning Effects of Possible Developments of the State Electricity Commisison of Victoria Brown Coal Resources of the Gipps­ Department of Minerals and Energy. land Region. 3. The contribution in man hours is esti­ Department of Geography, Monash Uni­ mated to be: versity-Resource Use and Environ­ (a) Steering Committee-a total of about mental Change in the Latrobe Valley. 200 man hours since January 1980. (b) Study Team-Two full-time since April MINISTERIAL COUNCIL FUNCTIONS 1980 and one full-time since December (Question No. 948) 1980. Some part-time assistance from other participants. Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ 4. The overall co-ordination of the study is tion) asked the Premier: the responsibility of the State Co-ordination What are the roles of-(a) the Latrobe Council's Committee for the co-ordination of Valley Ministerial Council; and (b) the State studies in the Gippsland Lakes catchment. Day- Co-ordination Council in preparing the Latrobe 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5697

Valley Strategy Plan and the Study of Resource this figure comprises eight domestic, one com­ Use and Environmental Management in Gipps­ mercial, seven industrial, four industrial farm land? and three others. The commission now supplies approximately Mr HAMER (Premier)-The answer 1·3 million customers and the above total repre­ is: sents one inquiry per approximately 42 000 1. Latrobe Valley Strategy Plan. customers. (a) The primary role of the Ministerial Coun­ cil is to ensure that the principal resource of the region, the brown coal reserves, will be NATURAL GAS RESOURCE available for utilization for the optimum bene­ (Question No. 956) fit of the people of Victoria. This will be effected by control of land usage in conform­ Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ ity with a strategy plan for the region. tion) asked the Minister for Minerals The major functions of the Ministerial and Energy: Council are: As at 30 June 1980, on a field-by-field basis, what was (a) To prepare and maintain a co-ordinated the estimated size of Victoria's demonstrated natural plan for development for the Latrobe Valley gas resource and what proportion was defined as having regard to the utilisation of the indige­ economically winnable? nous resources for the benefit of the State and industry. Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for (b) To examine the impact on infrastructure Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: of major development proposals. (c) To develop policies for the protection Estimated recoverable reserves of gas by reservoirs as and use of resources and for control and land at 30 June 1980 were: usage in the region. (d) To issue guidelines to, and consult with, Remaining Estimated the Consultative Committee in their co-ordina­ Field Name Recoverable Reserves tion of local planning within the framework Oil Reservoirs as at 1 July, 1980 of the strategy plan for the region. Drv Gas (Trillion 3 (e) The role of the State Co-ordination Coun­ std Gm Cu Ft) cil is to advise the Ministerial Council in its preparation of the Strategy Plan. Barracouta M-I and N-4 " 2. Study of Resource Use and Environmental Halibut M-I 0·1 Management in Gippsland. Cobia M-I 0·2 (a) The Latrobe Valley Ministerial Council Fortescus M-I 0·3 has an advisory role in the preparation of this Flounder T-l (incl. gas zone) 4·2 study. Kingfish A and B 2·0 West Kingfish 0·5 (b) The Study was set up by the State Co­ Mackerel L-l 0·8 Ordination Council and the Council has an South Mackerel .. 0'1 advisory role in the study. Marlin M-I (oil zone) Snapper N-J (oil zone) 0·1 Tuna L-I'3 0·1 TARIFF COMPLAINTS Tuna T-I (incl. gas zone) : : 1·2 (Question No. 953) Sub Total 9·6 (0, 34) Mr WILKES {Leader of the Opposi­ Gas Reservoirs tion) asked the Minister for Minerals Barracouta N-l 44·4 Marlin N-J 6J ·0 and Energy: Marlin M-I (gas zone) 1·2 How many State Electricity Commission Snapper N-l (gas zone) 69·0 customers have complained about their tariff Tuna M-I (gas zone) 8·1 to him, or the Department of Minerals and Energy or the State Electricity Commission (or Sub Total 183·7 (6'49) sought lower tariffs) on the grounds of com­ Total Reserves 193·3 (6'83) parisons with Alcoa of Australia Limited since Development Prospects 1 May 1980, distinguishing between domestic, Tuna'M-l (oi] zone) ~'2 commercial, industrial Tariff M, other indus­ Turrum (oj] zone) ~'2 trial, and all other commission customers? Turrum (gas cap) 12,5-25 Bream· .. 11· 5-12 Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: The recovery factor used in arriving at the estimate of Since 1 May 1980, the total number of com­ recoverable gas from each reservoir as compared with mission customers who have submitted written the inp]ace quantity of gas estimated to be in each complaints to myself or the commission com­ reservoir varies from a minimum of about 50 per cent paring their tariff situation to that of Alcoa in certain oil reservoirs to a max.imum of about 75 per of Australia Ltd is 23. Per class of customer, cent in certain gas reservoirs. 5698 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

(Question No. 957) which they have to supply their own cus­ tomers or their own associated companies) firstly because of our knowledge of the esti­ Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ mated remaining recoverable gas reserves, tion) asked the Minister for Minerals secondly because of the producers' obligation and Energy: to offer additional gas to the Gas and Fuel Corporation and thirdly because of the con­ What proportions of Victoria's economically siderable and continuing usage of natural gas winnable natural gas resource, on a field-by­ for fuel on both platforms and at the Longford field basis, have been allocated to or reserved treatment plant. for-(a) the Gas and Fuel Corporation; (b) the State Electricity Commission; (c) Alcoa of Aus­ tralia Limited; (d) Esso-BHP associated com­ REPORT ON HUMAN TISSUE panies; (e) other named purposes? TRANSPLANTS (Question No. 985) Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Minerals and Energy)-The answer is: Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the It should be pointed out here before specific­ Minister of Health: ally turning to the queries raised that the In respect of the report on human tissue words "allocated to" in the question may give transplants, what action has been taken since the wrong impression. Commercial contracts he released the committee's report on 29 were freely negotiated between the producer August and when it is expected that its recom­ and the buyer and the Government's role in mendations will be put into effect? such negotiations was of a review nature. In respect of the Gas and Fuel Corporation Mr BORTHWICK (Minister of Health) of Victoria, a revised gas contract was negoti­ -The answer is: ated with the producers in May 1974 that came I released the report on human tissue trans­ into effect on 1 January 1975. Under this con­ plantation in August 1980 and invited com­ tract the Gas and Fuel Corporation was guar­ ments and suggestions from the public. There anteed 50 billion therms of natural gas (approxi­ was very little public response, but a few con­ mately five trillion cubic feet) from the Barra­ structive suggestions were submitted. I have couta, Marlin and Snapper gas reservoirs. directed that draft legislation be prepared. In addition the contract provided that the Gas and Fuel Corporation would be given first offer of any additional reserves up to five CRIME IN trillion cubic feet that the producers could NORTH-WESTERN SUBURBS make available from offshore Victorian reser­ voirs after meeting a commitment of 1·4 (Question No. 997) trillion cubic feet which would cover the combined contractual requirements of the State Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the Electricity Commission of Victoria, the pro­ Minister for Police and Emergency ducers' own customers and the producers' (Esso­ BHP) associated companies. Services: In respect of-(a) the City of Brunswick; and Apart from the above so far as I am aware (b) North Carlton, whether he will provide no major contracts have been entered into be­ details of crimes coming to the attention of the tween the producers and the buyers. police in 1978-79 and 1979-80, indicating the It would also seem that any further commit­ nature of the crimes? ments for major gas sales to new customers are not presently practicable (other than possible Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police sales out of the producers' entitlement reserve and Emergency Services)-The answer amounting to 600 billion cubic feet and from is: Number of Cases Reported Brunswick Car/ton Nature oJ Crime 1978 1979 1980 1978 1979 1980 Homicide 2 1 2 1 1 2 Serious assault' 72 48 76 64 58 83 Robbery 36 30 21 23 42 36 Rape 4 12 4 2 2 6 Burglary 1353 1383 1368 830 1018 1122 Theft 1035 1168 1378 1187 1583 1636 Theft of moto~'vehicle: : 348 451 468 370 409 407 Fraud, false pretences, forgery, ~t~. 205 72 165 58 73 129 Other offences . . . . 631 676 772 349 317 372 Total 3686 3841 4254 2884 3503 3793 10 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5699

TOTALIZATOR AGENCY BOARD 2. Whether he will be more precise as to the date of publication of the Green Paper in 1981 AGENCIES regarding development of the tourist industry? (Question No. 998) 3. Whether he will supply reports, upon Mr ROPER (Brunswick) asked the completion of ongoing work by the Common­ Minister for Youth, Sport and Recrea­ wealth/State Standing Joint Study Group of the Australian Minerals and Energy Council, tion: on aluminium and woodpulp development, cost In respect of Totalizator Agency Board and availability of capital and availability of agencies in-(a) Brunswick; and (b) Coburg, electricity? what was the turnover in 1979-80 and whether 4. Whether he will supply periodical copies figures will be made available for each agency? of the Domestic Tourism Monitor as they Mr DIXON (Minister for Youth, Sport appear? and Recreation)-The answer is: 5. With reference to Appendix "B", why the Loy Yang and Driffield power stations and The Totalizator Agency Board has advised coalfield developments appear in the list of that turnover in the two areas concerned is prjvate sector projects and why Loy Yang is as follows: referred to as proposed rather than committed? . Municipality of Brunswick $10 352 278 6. With reference to Appendix "B", why Municipality of Coburg $7576715 the cost of of the so-called proposed and private For security purposes, investment figures Loy Yang project is reported as $3000 million for individual agencies are not given out by (the Appendix elsewhere being accurate to the the Totalizator Agency Board. However, the nearest $250 000) when page 80 of the Budget individual agency figures can be made available Papers, 1980-81, has it costed at $3043 million? to the honourable member on a confidential 7. With reference to Appendix "B", why the basis. Woodside Group's Offshore Gippsland Golden Beach gasfield (cost unknown) does not STATE DEVELOPMENT appear? COMMITTEE REPORT 8. With reference to Appendix "B", what (Question No. 1001) is the reason for the following discrepancies between this document and Statement 5 of "The Mr A. T. EV ANS (Ballarat North) Victorian Building and Construction Industry: asked the Minister for State Develop­ An Assessment" released by the Minister of ment, Decentralization and Tourism: Public Works during November 198O-GMH (Fishermen's Bend) $300 million compared with When the Government will be implementing $210 million; JLA (Westernport) $25 million recommendations Nos. 2 and 3 of the State compared with unknown; GeL (Bacchus Marsh) Development Committee Report on the use of $2 million compared with $20 million; Alcoa U.P.V.C. and Vitrified Clay Sewer Pipes in (Portland) $400 million compared with $350 Victoria which was laid before both Houses of Parliament on 18 March 1980. million; Kominic (Latrobe Valley) $100 million compared with $40-50 million; (Lay Yang) Mr I. W. SMITH (Minister for State $3000 million compared with $2800 million; and Development, Decentralization and whether he will indicate which figures are Tourism)-The answer is: correct? Where possible recommendation two has Mr I. W. SMITH (Minister for State been implemented. Development, Decentralization and The Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works has instituted a number of changes Tourism)-The answer is: which have strengthened its quality control 1. The department assisted, together with checks to accord with recommendation three. other relevant agencies, in preparing drafts of the legislation for the Alcoa development. DEPARTMENT OF STATE 2. The Tourism Green Paper will be pub­ DEVELOPMENT, DECENTRALIZA­ lished in 1981 as soon as it is ready. TION AND TOURISM 3. The Joint Commonwealth/State Study (Question No. 1003) Group on Raw Materials Processing is in the Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ process of producing a number of reports. I have· arranged for copies of the aluminium and tion) asked the Minister for State wood pulp reports to be sent to you. The other Development, Decentralization and two reports will be supplied when they become Tourism: available. In respect of references in the 1979-80 4. Yes. Annual Report of the Department of State 5. The table on page 3 has a missing head­ Development, Decentralization and Tourism: ing which should have been "resource based 1. In what way the department has assisted projects" as opposed to manufacturing projects in the preparation of legislation for the Alcoa and includes both committed and proposed development? projects. 5700 Questions on Notice [ASSEMBLY

6. The cost of Loy Yang in Appendix UB" Mr JONA (Minister for Community was plainly intended to be approximate. Welfare Services)-The answer is: 7. The Appendix UB" list is not necessarily With respect to prisoners in other countries, exhaustive, especially not the page 3 list, and no action has been instituted to return prisoners is only indicative of some of the projects which from overseas countries to serve sentences in are currently or recently active. Victoria or indeed, in any other Australian 8. The discrepancies in the quoted figures State. arise from two principal causes, firstly, they With respect to the interstate transfer of not always quoted in current dollar values, and prisoners, this matter is currently being con­ in periods of relatively high inflation this causes sidered by the Standing Committee of Attor­ cost estimates to vary a great deal. Secondly, neys-General for the various Australian States. cost escalation causes total cost estimates to A draft Bill to institute such a transfer has rise. The higher figures can be taken as the been considered by the Department of Commu­ more likely to be realistic in 1981 dollar terms. nity Welfare Services which has made its views known to the Law Department with respect to this question and no further action can REPATRIATION OF PRISONERS be taken by my department at this time. The (Question No. 1005) Attorneys-General last considered the matter at their July meeting in 1979, and several other Mrs TONER (Greensborough) asked States are still considering some outstanding the Minister for Community Welfare issues. Services: The State of Victoria supports the concept of the interstate transfer of prisoners, firstly, What action, if any, the Department of to further the course of justice so that prisoners Community Welfare Services has taken to may be brought to trial in another State facilitate repatriation of prisoners so that before witnesses have died or been lost trace of, people imprisoned in Australian States or in and secondly, for comrassionate reasons so overseas countries, other than their own State that prisoners in specia circumstances, might or country can, in appropriate cases, serve be housed closer to their family or for other their sentence in their home State or country? good cause. 11 March 1981 ] Questions without Notice 5701 those fires. Has the Minister of Forests Legislative Council reviewed the capacity of the Forests Commission to deal with fires of that Wednesday, 11 March 1981 magnitude in the Big Desert and Sunset country and other Crown lands through­ out Victoria and, if so, does he intend The PRESIDENT (the Hon. F. S. Grim­ to make any increases in the allocations wade) took the chair at 4.20 p.m. and to and in the provision of equipment read the prayer. to the Forests Commission in those areas? Will the Minister visit the area for inspections and discussions with QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE commission officers and Country Fire Authority groups responsible for areas that border Crown lands? MELBOURNE CITY COUNCIL The Hon. F. J. GRANTER (Minister of The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU Forests)-The answer to the last part (Doutta Galla Province) -Can the Min­ of the question is, "Yes". 1 am prepared ister of Education inform the House to visit the area at a convenient time why the Premier has taken the extra­ in company with Mr Dunn and discuss ordinary step of introducing in another the situation with the Forests Commis­ place today a Bill dealing with the dis­ sion officers and Country Fire Authority missal of the Melbourne City Council officers. Fires of some magnitude did when the Minister for Local Govern­ occur in the Big Desert and Sunset ment is a member of this House and areas. When fires of such magnitude the Bill does not offend the constitu­ occur things can go wrong. There was tion of the State and there is nothing good co-operation between the Country in the Standing Orders or the law of Fire Authority and the Forests Com­ the State that would prevent the intro­ mission during those fires, although duction of that Bill by the Minister in some people may have different this House? opinions. The Forests Commission had The Hon. A. J. HUNT {Minister of not encountered this type of fire in the Education) -The Bill follows the pre­ area for some time and, therefore, per­ cedent of the Local Government (City haps its organization may not have been of Sunshine) Bill introduced in similar the best. However, I will visit the area circumstances when the Clerks of the and discuss the problems with com­ House advised that Bills then defined mission officers and members of the as private Bills ou.ght to be introduced Country Fire Authority. in another place, which has detailed rules for private Bills, whilst this House SUNDAY TRAIN SERVICES has not. That is a ruling with which I The Hon. D. K. HAYWARD profoundly disagree. I know of no valid (Monash Province) -I ask the Minister reason why a private Bill ought not to for Local Government representing the be introduced in this place, and there Minister of Transport whether the are certainly precedents to the contrary Government is considering the suspen­ in this House. However, to avoid the sion of Sunday train services as one possibility of a dispute arising from a of the options available to reduce the ruling given on a previous occasion, the transport deficit and, if so, has the same course was adopted in this case Government considered the impact such as in the previous case. a decision would have on the com­ munity? BIG DESERT FIRES The Hon. D. G. CROZIER (Minister The Hon. B. P. DUNN (North Western for Local Government) -I understand Province) -My question concerns the that the Government is considering the massive fires in the Big Desert and Sun­ suspension of Sunday train services as set country during the recent su.mmer one of the options and the impact upon and the hundreds of thousands of acres the community of such a move will be of land that were destroyed during one of the factors considered. 5702 Questions without Notice [COUNCIL

AVALON TOXIC DUMP rather a mound which would be built The Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE up with impermeable layers of clay and (Geelong Province) -Is the Minister other material to ensure safety. for Conservation prepared to make The objective is to ensure that funds available for an independent hazards now existing in Victoria due groundwater and geological survey to to the storage of toxic waste will :be be carried out in the area proposed as obviated. I expect the Environment a place for a toxic dump at Avalon? I Protection Authority would obtain the understand funding has been made co-operation of all political parties in available for this type of study in other its endeavour to establish such a facility areas. If funding is not made available, in the interests of Victorians. Party will the Minister give some form of politics should not play a part in this guarantee to the people of Lara and the matter and the emotional aspects should workers at the Avalon airstrip that be rejected. there will be no harmful effects from the placement of toxic chemicals in the FLUORIDATION area? The Hon. K. I. WRIGHT (North Western Province) -I refer the Minister The Hon. W. V. HOUGHTON representing the Minister of Health to (Minister for Conservation) -The ques­ the State Government fluoridation in­ tion to which the honourable member quiry. Is the Minister aware that the refers concerns the problems of estab­ Ballarat anti-fluoridation association has lishing a toxic waste dump on a site, described the inquiry report as grossly which is under investigation by the misleading? Does the Government now Environment Protection Authority. No intend to enforce fluoridation on urban recommendations have been made yet water suppJies or will the Government to me or the Governent as to whether permit a poll of ratepayers before that site should be used. However, as fluoridation takes place? is usually the case in such circum­ stances, the Environment Protection The Hon. W. V. HOUGHTON Authority is setting out its propositions (Minister for Conservation) -The Gov­ for public examination. ernment has made a decision following a further examination of the arguments One factor is certain, as the Opposi­ against fluoridation with the help of an tion has pointed out. Victoria has a expert, unbiased committee. The com­ serious problem with the storage of mittee was headed by a former Vice toxic waste. It is not possible to give Chancellor of the Latrobe University, any water-tight guarantees that such and Dr. Meyers, and, amongst others, such a situation will not occur. It is included Dr Plueckhahn, a famous path­ certain that the current situation is far ologist from the Geelong Hospital. The more hazardous than the Environment committee has come up with an excel­ Protection Authority had proposed for lent report, as any honourable members Lara and a solution must be found. It who has read it would agree. does not matter which Government is As a result of the report the Govern­ in office; a solution must be found and ment decided to proceed with the fluo­ somebody somewhere in Victoria has ridation of the water supply in the to recognize that it is possible to 'build interests of the dental health of Vic­ an incinerator with proper Environment torian children. The children of New Protection Authority licensing to ensure South Wales enjoy a higher degree of that emissions meet standards accep­ dental health than Victorian children table to the air policy. Those people because the New South Wales water shall also have to recognize that it is supply has had fluoridation for a con­ possible to build a land-fill site that is siderable time. The children of Bacchus impermeable so far as is possible Marsh also enjoy superior dental health which is a long way off-and to ensure because their water supply authority that the waste dumped in that particular added fluoride many years ago. The land-fill site is as safe as possjble. The Government has adopted that policy and site in question is not a land-fill site but it will proceed with it. 11 March 1981] Questions without Notice 5703 TECHNICAL EDUCATION ment and job schemes to have the Gov­ The Hon. H. G. BA YLOR (Boronia ernment provide some incentive pay­ Province) -Is the Minister of Educa­ ment towards workers compensation tion aware of a growing trend towards premiums which may be available for technical school education in Victoria? young people who are involved in these If so, what plans has the Education De­ schemes. What Mr Sgro has put for­ partment made to meet the growing de­ ward is another such proposition along m'and? those lines and at this time these are being considered by the Minister. I will The Hon. A. J. HUNT -(Minister of certainly put what Mr Sgro has suggest­ Education) -There is evidence in some ed in his question to the Minister for areas of a small increase in demand for his consideration and ensure that the technical education in comparison with Minister provides a reply to Mr Sgro. high school education. Various people. may have their own different views on the reasons for that change. It is not a REFORESTATION particularly marked trend, but it is The HoD. J. W. S. RADFORD noticeable, particularly in certain areas. (Bendigo Province) -Is the Minister of The Government is endeavouring to pro­ Forests aware of two seminars called vide for any changes in demand as "Trees-Recover the Landscape" being quickly as it possibly can, and in the held at Rochester on 17 March and at honourable member's own area she will Cobram on 19 March? These seminars be aware of provision made at the com­ are being sponsored by the Murray Val­ mencement of this year for a new tech­ ley League for Conservation and De­ nical wing at a high school. velopment and by the local councils. Is the Minister of Forests prepared to con­ sider making extra funds available so WORKERS COMPENSATION that more emphaSis can be plaCed on PREMIUMS reforestation in Victoria? The Hon. G. A. SGRO (Melbourne North Province)-I ask the Attorney­ The HoD. F. J. GRANTER (Minister of General whether the Government has Forests) -I am aware of the seminars considered heavily subsidizing workers being conducted by the Murray Valley compensation . premiums for young League for Conservation and Develop­ workers who would be gainfully em­ ment. They are not sponsored by the ployed on a temporary basis for a short Forests Commission and the Forests time if the employers were provided Commission has made no input of funds with this financial assistance as an in­ to the seminars. The Forests Commis­ centive? sion does provide speakers for these seminars and will be providing a speaker The Hon. HADDON STOREY for the seminars that are currently be­ (Attorney-General) -I understand that ing planned. They will be conducted. I already the Government is involved in understand, by the Rochester City Coun­ paying workers compensation premiums for young people in certain areas. In cil in conjunction with the Murray Val­ particular it pays workers compensation ley Development League. I commend premiums for first year apprentices and both organizations for their initiative also for the period that an apprentice in holding these seminars. is attending a technical school as an The tree planting schenle which the apprentice. The Government also pays Government has embarked on has been premiums for students undergoing work a great success. Already there have experience pursuant to the provisions been more than 600 applications for of the Education Act. trees from individual farmers and or­ In addition, the Minister of Labour ganizations and those applications are and Industry has received representa­ being processed as quickly as possible tions from a number of groups who are and some 150 applications have already concerned in trying to generate employ- been met. 5704 Questions without Notice [COUNCIL POLICE SPECIAL OPERATIONS payers did not grow up to pay their GROUP taxes and I invite the Minister of Water The Hon. JOAN COXSEDGE (Mel­ Supply to tell me what is happening bourne West Province)-My question about this. is directed to the Attorney-General rep­ The Hon. F. J. GRANTER (Minister of resenting the Minister for Police and Water Supply)-I can only state that Emergency Services. In view of the fact if the honourable member will give me that the only known public activity of the address of the area where the the Victoria Police Special Operations orange-colored water is, I will certainly Group has been the instant execution have inquiries made. I will ask the of a confused individual involved in a Water Commission to visit the area and domestic argument, under what circum­ test the water to ascertain whether stances is the Special Operations Group there is some foreign matter in it. called in and why has this suddenly be­ come necessary when this type of inci­ dent used to be handled adequately by AIR POLLUTION POLICY other branches of the Victoria Police The Hon. E. H. WALKER (Melbourne Force? Province)-My question is directed to The Hon. HAD DON STOREY the Minister for Conservation and I (Attorney-General) -As usual Mrs Cox­ refer to the draft air policy which' was sedge starts off a question by referring issued by the Environment Protection to a fact and then goes on to refer to Authority in 1979 and about which there all types of allegations which are quite has been consultation in the time since unknown to me. Mrs Coxsedge used then and which I understand was pre­ the words "confused individual" and sented as an air policy to be adopted by she referred to the person being the Cabinet in January. Since the Minister subject of an "instant execution". From for Conservation has been forced by the way Mrs Coxsedge was using the Cabinet to accept a reduction in pro­ phrases, and in the sense which I sus­ posed standards, particularly in relation pect she is, it imputes a very grave to nitrous oxide emissions from the criminal offence against the people in­ State Electricity Commission power volved. If that is so, then I suggest Mrs stations in the Latrobe Valley, is the Coxsedge ought to produce the evi­ honourable gentleman prepared to dence, if she has any evidence of such a accept a worsening of air pollution in thing, and to come out and say publicly the Latrobe Valley which will result the sorts of things she is implying. Mrs from the proposed new State Electricity Coxsedg'e is casting a gross innuendo Commission developments and new without foundation. development by Australian Paper Manu­ facturers Ltd? MORNINGTON PENINSULA WATER The Hon. W. V. HOUGHTON SUPPLY (Minister for Conservation)-A State air The Hon. J. V. C. GUEST (Monash pollution policy has been prepared by Province)-I ask the Minister of Water the Environment Protection Authority Supply to inform me what is being done and that is the only true fact contained by the Government about a problem in the question asked by Mr Walker. brought to my attention by some That draft policy is currently before the constituents from what a former mem­ Cabinet and the Government has not yet ber would call the salubrious suburbs given its final seal of approval to that who go on holidays to what are sup­ policy and is working towards that. The posed to be salubrious resorts. suggestion made by Mr Walker that I refer to children from these salubrious changes are being made to the policy is suburbs drinking orange-colored water untrue. The policy is before the Cabinet on the Mornington Peninsula at the end for adoption by the Government and the of the summer season. It would be a Cabinet is entitled to make any changes . tragedy if these future Victorian tax- it deems appropriate. 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5705

NOXIOUS WEEDS HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPALS SALARY The Hon. H. R. WARD (South DETERMINATION Eastern Province)-My question is also The Hon. A. J. HUNT (Minister of directed to the Minister for Conserva­ Education) -In order to ensure that full tion. Having regard to the fact the information is available to honourable Minister recently visited the south members in connection with a debate, Gippsland area to inspect a problem in which is the subject of Orders of the relation to noxious weeds, has the Day, Government Business, for later this honourable gentleman yet made a day, I move, by leave- decision as to what is to be done to That there be laid before this House a file control noxious weeds on roads and on containing copies of the following documents: Crown land with a view to assisting (i) Decision of the Victorian Teachers Tri­ farmers, particularly the control of rag­ bunal dated 5 February 1981, including the wort in that area? Chairman's "Statement of Dissent". (ii) Letter from the Minister of Education The Hon. W. V. HOUGHTON to the Tribunal dated 6 February 1981. (Minister for Conservation)-My visit to (iii) Letter from the Minister to the President south Gippsland reinforced the priorities of the Victorian High Schools Principals Asso­ which I have set in the Lands Depart­ ciation dated 6 February 1981. ment for dealing with noxious weeds. (iv) Letter from Tribunal to Minister dated In south Gippsland there are large areas 12 February 1981. of land which have been planted by the (v) Letter from Minister to Tribunal dated Forests Commission where the control 12 Feburary 1981. of noxious weeds and vermin is far from (vi) Press Statement by Minister of Educa­ satisfactory. The view that I have had tion dated 12 February 1981. for many, many years, long before I (vii) Letter from Tribunal to the Minister of became a member of this Parliament, Education dated 16 February 1981. and the view I have now that I am (viii) Application by Victorian High Schools Principals Association for salary increase, in­ Minister of Lands, and the policy I have corporating supplementary submissions (No­ adopted in dealing with Crown lands vember 1980). as a top priority, has been reinforced by (ix) Transcript of evidence tendered to Tri­ the visit to Gippsland. Noxious weeds bunal on 19 November and 10 December 1980. on Crown lands should be dealt with as Copies of these documents, with the a priority, and I will do that. exception of the transcript of evidence, have been supplied to the repre­ MONASH HIGH SCHOOL sentatives of the other parties in the The Hon. C. J. KENNEDY (Waverley House. Province) -The Minister of Education is The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU aware that the cyclic maintenance pro­ (Doutta Galla Province) -I congratu­ gramme of schools has been extended late the Minister for the way in which by the Government from five to seven he has prepared his case, and is pre­ years. Will the honourable gentleman senting it for the benefit of honourable give special consideration to Monash members. There is a lot of reading, High School, which has not had cyclic which no doubt honourable members maintenance for seven years? Bearing will take on at some stage during the in mind the extensive requirements of sessional period, but there should be this school, and the long period involved, one or two other documents that 1 will the Minister look at this situation believe the House should have the bene­ and act accordingly? fit of, and at a later stage 1 may arrange The Hon. A. J. HUNT (Minister of for them to be tabled as well. Education) -I will certainly refer the The Hon. A. J. HUNT (Minister of question to my colleague, the Minister Education) (By Leave) -Providing the of Educational Services, within whose documents are properly tabled, 1 will responsibility the matter lies, for exami­ consent. nation of the needs of the high school The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU mentioned, in the context of the over-all (Doutta Galla Province) -I had in mind needs of the State. the draft statement of the chairman of Session 1981-196 5706 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL

the tribunal. Although the case has It was ordered that the documents actually concluded, I do not think the be laid on the table. question of sub judice arises. The source of my knowledge of what I am PAPERS referring to is an affidavit of one of the The following papers, pursuant to the complainants. I would have thought directions of several Acts of Parliament, the draft statement of the chairman were laid on the table by the Clerk: should be included, but in order to have Law Reform Commissioner-Report for the the House carry this matter, the Minis­ year 1979-80. ter and I could confer privately. West Moorabool Water Board-Report and The Hon. A. J. HUNT (Minister of statement of accounts for the year 1979-80. Education) (By Leave) -I appreciate On the motion of the Hon. JOAN the way in which the Leader of the COXSEDGE (Melbourne West Prov­ Opposition is giving an indication of ince), it was ordered that the reports his intentions. It is my intention to be taken into consideration on the next facilitate the submission of any docu­ day of meeting. ment, which it is proper to be tendered. The honourable member has raised a LOCAL GOVERNMENT (EQUALITY sub judice issue. 1 ought briefly to com­ OF REPRESENTATION) BILL ment upon it at this stage for the guid­ The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU ance of the House. On any matters that (Doutta Galla Province) moved for are sub judice, it would be improper for leave to bring in a Bill to amend the me to produce affidavits of a case cur­ Local Government Act 1958 to ensure rently before the courts. I see the that the subdivisions of municipal dis­ Leader of the Opposition nodding, and tricts contain approximately equal num­ the Leader of the National Party looking bers of voters, and for other purposes. as if he, too, agrees. The motion was agreed to. However, the exhibits adverted to in The Bill was brought in and read a the various affidavits are matters of first time. public record, and matters of know­ ledge, and 1 will do my best to enable CONSTITUTION (LOCAL members to refer to anything relevant GOVERNMENT) BILL provided it does not raise current The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU matters of sub judice, and I gather that (Doutta Galla Province) moved for it would be your duty, Mr President, to leave to bring in a Bill to make provi­ ensure that that did not happen. sion in the Victorian Constitution with The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU respect to Acts and enactments for the (Doutta Galla Province) (By Leave)­ dismissal of municipal councils and for The Minister has, for the purposes of other purposes. the debate, tabled in the House for the benefit of honourable members a series The motion was agreed to. of documents. There are a number of The BiB was brought in and read a documents that I not only would want first time. to refer to in the course of discussion, The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU which will occur at some stage during (Doutta Galla Province) -I move: the sessional period, but also there are That this Bill be now read a second time. documents in addition to those which The Bill seeks to enshrine in the Vic­ the Minister is making available, and torian Constitution protection for local as I indicated, that could be done councils from autocratic decisions to privately with the three parties; rather dismiss them and replace those coun­ than have an argument about it, we cillors with administrators. The sub­ could perhaps reach agreement. stance of this Bill is to require a mem­ The motion was agreed to. ber of Parliament who introduces a Bill The Hon. A. J. HUNT (Minister of into the Legislative Council and/or the Education) presented the documents in Legislative Assembly to have presented, compliance with the foregoing order. at least seven clear days before the 11 March 1981] Constitution (Local Government) Bill 5707 second reading of the Bill which pro­ an inquiry conducted into the affairs of vides for the dismissal of a municipal the council, which enables all interested council, the report of a person or board citizens to put forward any submissions appointed by the Governor in Council they may wish to that inquiry. to inquire into the affairs of a municipal Once passed as law, this particular council. measure would give constitutional pro­ This measure is made all the more tection to all municipal councils to the urgent and important because of the extent that not only would it require autocratic decision, announced by the Parliament to pass legislation but it Minister for Local Government several would also give all interested citizens months ago, to introduce legislation to the opportunity to participate in an dismiss the Melbourne City Council and independent public inquiry ensuring appoint an administrator. The extra­ that the Parliament was aware of the ordinary aspect of the Minister's pro­ outcome of that inquiry and the matters posal is that it was virtually an about that arose during and from that inquiry. face by him, within hours of delivering At least we would be better informed on a Ministerial statement to the Parlia­ a Minister's proposal or a Government's ment on the sanctity of external proposal and the reason justifying that boundaries of all municip:llities. dismissal. On 10 December of last year the M'in­ The Government's intention to dis­ ister for Local Government was miss the Melbourne City Council is a reported on page 4710 of Hansard as case in point. The Minister talks about saying: general malaise, general symptoms and As is the case in New Zealand though, op­ blames the system and not the coun­ portunity will be given to voters enrolled in cillors, and, most uncharacteristically, municipalities affected to determine by a poll whether a specific external boundary change seems reluctant to discuss openly and recommended by the Local Government frankly the real motivation for the pro­ Advisory Board should proceed. posal. If this motion were agreed to the The Minister, of course, claimed that Constitution would then prevent the despite that assertion and the principle Minister, and indeed the Premier or any that assertion embraces, it cannot be other member of the Legislative Council read to include a decision of the Gov­ or Legislative Assembly, from acting in ernment proposing boundary alterations. this manner-that is, introducing a Bill In other words, the Minister was sug­ which seeks to dismiss any municipal gesting that Parliament should require council without a proper and thorough that where the Local Government Ad­ inquiry. He would be obliged, as a mem­ visory Board, after due and proper ber introducing a measure, to ensure inquiry, proposed boundary changes to that an inquiry-in the case of the Mel­ a municipality or municipalities that bourne City Council, for instance-was should be subject to the voters in that first conducted and completed. municipality or municipalities, as the The Melbourne City Council issue case may be, agreeing with the proposal aside, local government is in urgent need emanating from that board, but with of a rapid, sure and certain assurance respect to those municipal boundary from Parliament because the real appeal changes determined by the Cabinet no of the proposal is to give that additional such democratic mechanism should assurance to local government. It gives apply. Of course, my party believes this an additional protection to the citizens obvious contradiction to be an untenable of the remaining 210 municipalities who position. are not immediately, if the Minister's This Bill is aimed at assuring latest statements are to be accepted, municipal councils throughout the State under threat but who could be in some that they will have the additional pro­ way within hours of a Ministerial state­ tection because, before a Minister of any ment under threat in the same way in political pursuasion can present in which the Melbourne City Council and legislative form the dismissal of a muni­ its ratepayers were under threat. It cipal council, there must first have been would ensure that no politician, no Par- 5708 Constitution (Local Government) Bill [COUNCIL liamentarian and no bureaucrat could The Bill takes that process one im­ propose the dismissal by Parliament of portant step further. It guarantees a any council without a full, open and municipal council freedom from auto­ independent inquiry. cratic decisions of dismissal by ensuring The Bill also provides for the election that its autonomy and independence will within twelve months of a municipal be protected to the extent of the inquiry council to replace the municipal council required. that has been dismissed. In other words, Parliament can, of course, take ad­ the Bill contains a sunset provision to ditional measures to advance the inde­ require the administrators who are ap­ pendence of municipalities. This is the pointed within twelve months of that first of such proposals that I shall be appointment to organize fresh elections advising Parliament to take at relevant for the new council where the Parlia­ stages during the sessional period. The ment, following an inquiry, had found right of self-determination is important that a municipal council should be dis­ and a right to which the former Minister missed. This proposal would not pre­ for Local Government, now the Minister clude administrators from being in office of Education, has subscribed at least in longer than twelve months; it would principle in the debate of May 1978 to require administrators to justify through which I referred. the Minister and the Parliament any Now, the Premier and the present extension beyond the sunset clause of Minister for Local Government are dis­ twelve months. I shall quote briefly regarding the spirit of that constitu­ from a debate of 3 May 1978 recorded tional amendment which has made it in Hansard vol. 337 at page 2158 in necessary to propose a measure that the second reading of the Constitution will remove the possibility of that oc­ (Local Government) Bill in which, in curring in the future. It will enshrine in his opening remarks the Leader of the the Constitution for the beneficial House, then Minister for Local Govern­ protection of municipal councils in ment, stated: general and ratepayers and ordinary Its object is to accord formal recognition to citizens in particular their right to have local government in the Victorian Constitution. access to the facts as well as the op­ The last decade has been one of dramatic portunity of participating in the deci­ change for local government. A desire for sion-making process. public participation in the decision-making pro­ cess has emerged. People no longer think that There ought not to be much variance big is beautiful. between the approach of the three There have been renewed demands for parties represented in the Chamber­ devolution of responsibility and the power of the Melbourne City Council issue aside. decision making at the grass roots level where Local government urgently needs a those affected by decisions may have some influence upon them. There has been a growing signal from the Chamber, if not from awareness of the importance of planning and Parliament, to assure it of its rights on environment protection and a demand for boundary changes and, after listening councillors with a sensitive appreciation of to the Ministerial statement, I suggest those issues. that both major parties are as one. * * * * * * * The Hon. D. G. Crozier-You believe In no field has the change been greater than in that of relationships between the three in a municipal commission. spheres of government. Local government may The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU still in some senses be the poor relation, but -I still believe in it but with ratepayers at least it is recognized rather than brushed aside. and voters in that municipality, if there is a boundary change, having the right The Leader of the House was asserting to determine their own destiny. They that the considerable amendment pro­ pay the bills and they have to live in the posed in the Bill would guarantee some proposed boundaries. It is not a deci­ autonomy to local government. He also sion, 'with the greatest respect to the suggested in that debate that the Bill Minister involved, ,for him or any other would provide a constitutional safe­ Parliamentarian or bureaucrat but a de­ guard against the dismissal of a council. cision for the persons involved. The Hon. W. A. Landeryou 11 March 1981] Constitution (Local Government) Bill 5709

As the Leader of the House stated in Premier is proposing to dismiss the 1978, there is a spirit of devolution­ Melbourne City Council without a refer­ and I know it may be difficult for all endum of the ratepayers. members of the Liberal Party to catch This proposal enables the Minister for up with that. I suggest to the House Local Government to vote with his body that the two major parties are of one as his tongue seems to indicate he mind that there should not be boundary wishes. If he is in favour of giving changes of a local government authority municipal councils additional protection without the authority and voters within and believes that no council should be the municipality or municipalities having dismissed in an autocratic way without the right to determine it. an inquiry, he should vote for the pro­ The Hon. D. G. Crozier-Legislation posal. The Minister has only to accept giving effect to that assurance is in the the proposal and to go to the party process of preparation. room and fight for it. I would then be­ lieve that he was being serious and that The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU he should be regarded as sincere. It is -It is a pity that the honourable gentle­ nonsense to suggest that these proposals man did not share my enthusiasm for are at present in the pipeline while the those reforms before he rushed into the Government is committing an outrage Melbourne City Council proposal be­ against the Melbourne City Council. The cause it is difficult to follow his logic. Minister has not come clean to this Par­ He is saying he wants to embrace Labor liament or to the Melbourne City Coun­ Party policy on devolution of power and cil on what motivates him in that area. its philosophy of giving those citizens and voters the right of self-determina­ The DEPUTY PRESIDENT (the Hon. tion with a power of plebescite, but the W. M. Campbell)-That is not part of honourable gentleman is also saying the Bill. that now, with the other in train and The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-I while embracing the policies of the realize that, Sir. The Minister has an Labor Party, he should be applying the obligation to disclose his motivation re­ other proposals to the Melbourne City garding that council. Council. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT-At the This measure, if enacted, will guaran­ right moment. tee all municipal councils in Victoria The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-Four the right of self-determination. Perhaps months is a long time. those, who like myself, believe Victoria has too many councils, have to run the The DEPUTY PRESIDENT-I have al­ gauntlet of convincing people who have ready said that it is not contained in to pay for the cost of duplication of the Bill. I should like Mr Landeryou to services, but in the end those who dis­ keep to the Bill and not refer to one that agree with my view and perhaps the may be introduced at a later date. views of many honourable members on The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-I both sides of the House may be judged commend the Bill to the House. It in­ right by the line taken on what Parlia­ corporates the philosophy about which ment is about to change arbitrarily. By the Honourable Alan Hunt spoke in interjection the Minister claims that he 1978 and which the Labor Party and the will embrace such principles and that National Party supported. There has they are in the pipeline. I wish he would been a massive and outrageous. depar­ un clog the pipeline and rush the Bills ture from that philosophy and it is time through. The Minister cannot have the for Parliament to correct that departure luxury of an argument both ways. He and ensure in unmistakable terms that cannot say he embraces the democratic local government is not generally held principle, which is the policy of the under siege, that before anything is Labor Party, of allowing the voters to done in relation to a council that may decide, and claim, as was said in 1978, be under question by Government, a that he is in favour of devolution of person or board of inquiry is appointed power, when at the same time the to conduct a full, open and independent 5710 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL

inquiry and that the report is presented qualified support to adherence to proper to the Parliament before Parliament is wage fixation principles, both before asked to act on the dismissal of that and since the introduction of wage council. Local government deserves indexation. that quick reassurance. Our support for that view has been On the motion of the Hon. D. G. based upon a firm belief that only an CROZIER (Minister for Local Govern­ adherence to clear and accepted prin­ ment), the debate was adjourned. ciples can produce equity for all salary It was ordered that the debate be and wage earners. Disregard of those adjourned until Wednesday, March 25. principles undermines confidence in the arbitration system and puts the whole community at risk. It is the road to HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPALS SALARY galloping inflation and chaos. We there­ DETERMINATION fore support adherence to proper prin­ The Hon. A. J. HUNT (Minister of ciples, support their implementation Education) -I move: by impartial and properly informed That pursuant to section 58 of the Teaching tribunals, and support the decisions of Service Act 1958, the Teaching Service­ impartial umpires acting within those Secondary Schools Division (Classification, Salaries, and Allowances) Regulation, Amend­ principles. ment No. 538, be disallowed. Under many Acts a review process On 5 February 1981, the Victorian of one kind or another is available to Teachers Tribunal determined by safeguard against the possibility of majority vote that the salaries of high error or of misinterpretation or dis­ school principals should be increased regard of the rules by an arbitrator or by 15 per cent, with effect from 8 tribunal. The only occasions, and February 1981. Those responsible for there are a number, when the Victorian the decision gave no reasons in support Government has sought to use the re­ of it. The only reasons given were view procedures provided have been those of the chairman, who presented when failure has occurred on the part a trenchant "Statement of Dissent". of the umpires to observe the rules. The decision sent shock waves around This is clearly such a case. Australia, both because of its size and The decision flew in the face of the implications and because, as the Age wage indexation guidelines applying education writer observed on 16 Feb­ throughout Australia. It was contrary ruary: to the tribunal's previous announcement the Principals' $4000 a year salary boost is adopting those guidelines. It departed the first by any Australian wage fixing body from them without giving any reasons, to break with the former wage indexation without expJaining the decision, without guidelines. any constraints or guidance for the The only error in the quoted comment future. It did so in a way which was was the reference to "former" guide­ described by the chairman as "not only lines, because the Australian Concilia­ unjustified but irresponsible and inde­ tion and Arbitration Commission's fensible". guidelines still then applied and still The application which gave rise to do apply, although they are currently the decision was a "work value" claim, under review. It is not the prerogative seeking an increase in salary on the or the function of the Victorian Teachers basis of: Tribunal to pre-empt the results of that changes in work value such as changes in review, to set the pace for Australia or the r:tature of the work, skill and responsibility to depart from principles applying reqUIred, 01' the conditions under which the throughout the Commonwealth. It is work is performed. not the role of the tribunal simply to For the purposes of the claim, the only go its own way, regardless of the effect changes which were relevant were of its decisions on the community as those which had occurred since the a whole. Such a course is absolutely claimants Jast received a work value unacceptable to the Victorian Govern­ increase amounting to 3 per cent on ment, which has always given its un- 5 May 1978. 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5711

Under the indexation principles of the yet no apparent consideration was given Australian Conciliation and Arbitration to its over-all impact. The cost of flow­ Commission, the tribunal was not at on throughout the Victorian Govern­ liberty to start afresh on a new appraisal ment Teaching Service alone would be of the value of high school principals $129 million in a single year. Yet the to the community, without regard to effect could never be confined only to previous salary levels or cost to the the Victorian State Teaching Service. It community. The tribunal's commencing WOUld, if left unchallenged, inevitably point under the guidelines was the pre­ flow to teachers in private schools and vious salary level, and any increase teachers in other States. was limited to relate to any changes The decision would tend to flow also in work which had occurred between to the senior administration of the Edu­ May 1978 and December 1980 when the cation Department and then across evidence concluded. departmental lines throughout other A decision to grant a salary increase departments. The salaries of public ser­ of 15 per cent over that short period, vants throughout Australia, whether in addition to normal indexation in­ State, Federal or local government, creases, could only properly have been would inevitably be affected in the based on extensive evidence and the course of time, and the decision would strongest of reasons. No reasons were, in any event contribute substantially however, given and the decision was to wage pressures throughout the com­ based on inadequate evidence, as the munity and to serious effects upon the dissenting statement of the chairman economy and Governmental budgets. indicated: Estimates of the possible effect upon An increase in excess of six per cent would the budgets of the public sector in Aus­ imply a fundamental reassessment of the role tralia have ranged upwards from $1000 of secondary school principals and of their million per annum, without taking salary location in relation to other principals and teachers in the Victorian teaching service. account of the increased pressure which The Tribunal was not, in my view, in any would be generated for wage and salary position to make such a reassessment; in this increases in the private sector. Clearly connection I was outvoted on my formal the commission's enjoinders to those request to the Tribunal to hear the views of the Department and to visit selected secondary concerned to ensure "that wage move­ schools. Without the additional information ments outside increases awarded in which these enquiries would have provided, national wage reviews must be small" I believe that any increase in excess of six and their impact in economic terms per cent is totally unsupportable. "negligible" went unheeded in this case. There was a clear need also to consider, as the chairman's dissent recorded- Endeavours have been made in some quarters to argue that there should be The extent of salary increases outside national wage adjustments already awarded no flow-on from a work value decision to principals and teachers by wage fixing made on the facts of a particular case. authorities in other States of Australia, the It is ironic, however, to note that these economic cost of any increase, the possibi1ity arguments sometimes emerged from of flow on within the teaching profession and in the public sector of employment and the those who have been quick to claim the eff-ect of any proposed increase on current flow-on for themselves. It is noteworthy relativities within the Victorian Teaching Ser­ that on the very day when news of the vice. tribunal decision appeared in the morn­ The determination failed completely to ing press, the evening Herald carried an address itself to those issues. The flow­ article under the heading "Teachers on effects, the impetus to inflation, the chase 15 per cent rise". The Herald impact of the decision in economic article of that day (7 February 1981) terms could hardly be described as quoted the President of the Victorian "negligible", although the commission Secondary Teachers Association, Mr emphasized the importance of that test, Peter Vaughan-who was a member of both in April 1975 and in May 1978. the silent majority on the tribunal which On the contrary, a decision of this mag­ made the decision, and will benefit per­ nitude could well be disastrous to the sonally from it when he assumes full community and the nation as a whole, time presidency of his union-as saying 5712 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL there was "no doubt" teacher unions teachers unsuccessfully claimed a would seek the 15 per cent flow-on. similar increase under the inequities "They may be seeking more," he said, provision, but subsequently achieved 3 "They certainly won't be seeking less". per cent in their own work value case. Significantly, Mr Vaughan is also quoted as saying- Outside the Teaching Service, the Municipal Officers Association obtained In the light of the tribunal's decision and in the face of the collapse of wage indexation an initial 2· 8 per cent work value in­ guidelines, unions will be seeking fairly sub­ crease for certain officers in the State stantial increases this year. Electricity Commission, and later a 4 per This is the only published clue to Mr cent increase covering a range of instru­ Vaughan's reasons for the decision in mentalities. Thereafter the State which he participated. It is apparent Electricity Commission increase was either that he erroneously believed in­ lifted to 4 per cent in some cases and dexation principles no longer applied or to more in others. The 4 per cent figure that he wilfully set out to ensure that subsequently flowed to the State Public they would not apply. Some umpire! Service and all areas under the control Incidentally, his union has now lodged or influence of the Victorian Public a work value claim for 20 per cent. Service Board, to the Commonwealth Public Service, to the public services of In the same issue of the Herald the other States and to local government. President of the Victorian Teachers In the blue-collar field, work value in­ Union was quoted as saying, "We will creases in the transport and metal certainly be pushing for 15 per cent". trades areas subsequently flowed His union has now amended its work virtually to all blue-collar awards, value claim for a 10·5 per cent increase whether under Federal or State deter­ which had already been lodged with the tribunal, to a claim for 15 per cent. The minations, in every industry throughout President of the Victorian Association the Commonwealth. of Teachers is quoted in the same It will be seen not only that flow-on article as saying that her association has occurred from work value decisions, would be pushing for "about the same" but that however it has occurred it has and the article reported that it was be­ tended to be of roughly the same mag­ lieved the Technical Teachers Union of nitude. There has been one major recent Victoria would adopt the same line as exception which resulted from the other teacher unions. extensive investigation conducted under The suggestion that a work value the chairmanship of His Honour Judge decision depends upon its own peculiar Vickery, into work value changes for facts and does not give rise to flow-on police. may be admirable in theory but it ig­ The transcript in the police case nores practice and history. constitutes 5632 pages; in the principals' On 6 March 1978, primary school case, 83 pages. The inspection material teachers obtained a work value increase in the police case amounted to 568 of 3 per cent and their principals of 5 pages; in the principals' case, nil. There per cent. By the end of that year a 3 per were 339 documents presented in the cent increase had flowed to high school police case; one application, several principals and to technical school prin­ exhibits and a supplementary sub­ cipals. Secondary school teachers failed to make out a case for a work value mission in the principals' case. One­ increase to the satisfaction of the tri­ hundred and sixty-two witnesses ap­ bunal and their claim was rejected. They peared before Judge Vickery, including then reapproached the tribunal under 17 for the respondent, whilst two only the "inequities" provision of the wage appeared before the Teachers Tribunal indexation guidelines, claiming that it with none to put a different view. There was inequitable that they should be re­ were 130 sitting days over 15 months in ceiving less than primary school teach­ the police case; only two hearing days ers. In July, 1979, they received their 3 before the Teachers Tribunal in the per cent on that basis. Technical school principals' case. The Hon. A. J. Hunt 11 March 1981 ] High School Principals Salary Determination 5713 Following this exhaustive enquiry, The absence of such reasons demon­ the Police Service Board granted work strates at the least a lack of concern value increases ranging from 8 per cent with the implications of the decision, or to 12 per cent. The decision was worse, a failure to comprehend them, or accompanied by a detailed and lucid worse again, a deliberate disregard of judgment which gave full reasons for known consequences. The continued the decision and described the precise absence of those reasons despite the nature of the changes in work value chairman's express request for them and relied upon, in a manner which sub­ in the face of the bitterly critical attack stantially diminished the prospects of upon the decision contained in his strong flow-on. The Teachers Tribunal majority statement of dissent, was inexplicable on the other hand fixed a 15 per cent and cavalier. work value increase for high school On 1 December 1971, the Statute Law principals on top of the 3 per cent in­ Revision Committee reported to this Par­ crease granted to them in 1978 on the liament upon prerogative writs. The basis of incomparably less material, and committee pointed out that if reasons did so without any reasons for judgment for decisions are not given by adminis­ or any accompanying statement which trative tribunals, appeal proceedings might assist to confine its effects. against those decisions were hampered, On the important issue of relativities and expressed the belief that adminis­ and of the need for full information be­ trative tribunals should advance reasons fore embarking upon such a far-reaching for any decisions which they made if decision differing so greatly from normal requested to do so. Paragraph 9 of the community expectations and salary committee's report contained an express movements, it is worth again quoting recommendation in the following terms: from the chairman's dissent as The Committee recommends that adminis­ follows: trative tribunals be bound to furnish reasons It is my view that any substantial change to supporting their decisions if prior notice is current salary relativities within the Victorian given or, if within thirty days after the making Teaching Service cannot be justified unless the of a particular decision, a request is made for tribunal has undertaken an exhaustive work reasons to be supplied. If the tribunal fails to value analysis and has before it all possible furnish such reasons, the Committee believes information relevant to a determination. that the court should be empowered to act An examination of the approaches as though the invalidity has been established. respectively adopted by the Police That recommendation was adopted by Service Board and the Teachers Tribunal the Government and by this Parliament in these two cases clearly indicates that and has passed into law as section 8 of the factual base available to the tribunal the Administrative Law Act 1978. was inadequate by comparison with that In this case the Government, by utilized by the board and that the board letter dated 12 February 1981, expressly undertook the actual process of decision sought from the tribunal: making and recording in a far more a statement of the reasons for the decision serious and responsible way. of the Tribunal, including those of the elected The complete absence of any reasons and appointed members. for decision by the majority of itself The letter came before the tribunal on displayed an absence of responsibility 16 February. The chairman and elected in a case of such a precedent setting member who had participated in the nature. The least which could be ex­ original decision were present, whilst pected of a responsible tribunal was a a fresh Government member had re­ clear statement of the reasons for its placed the Government member who decision so that the basis on which it had retired on attaining the age of 65 had acted would be known and under­ years immediately after that decision. stood, so that any departure from past The tribunal's response to the request principles could be explained-and if for reasons, conveyed through its acting necessary challenged-so that guidance secretary by letter dated 16 February, could be given for the future, and so that was simply- the effects could be confined as far as that its original determination was not accom­ practicable within proper limits. panied by a statement from each member. 5714 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL Although section 8 of the Administrative to make his decision in a particular Law Act relates only to proceedings in a case on the basis of the evidence and court, the principle on which it is based of consistent and accepted wage fixing is clearly relevant to the proceedings in principles, and in the light of any rele­ this House. The principle is that in the vant Government policies. last resort, where a tribunal fails to On 8 May 1975, the Premier made a furnish reasons which have been sought Ministerial statement on wage indexa­ for its decision, the invalidity of the tion. He indicated the Government's ac­ decision may be presumed. A court may ceptance of the Australian Conciliation do that as a matter of law. So too and Arbitration Commission's wage in­ should this Parliament as a matter of dexation guidelines and applauded the sense and logic on the basis of the same safeguards and conditions which the principle. commission had developed with respect Any Government which appoints a to the system generally and with respect tribunal of any description has the right to aspects, such as work value, which to expect that its members will act envisaged possible increases other than responsibly and in accordance with by way of indexation or national pro­ proper and accepted principles. If this ductivity improvements. He said: occurs, the existence of three perspec­ The Victorian Government commends the tives and three minds being brought to wisdom of the commission in attaching condi­ bear on any issue provides a valuable tions to the introduction of wage indexation. The Government supports and urges adoption safeguard against any error of judgment of such conditions with respect to awards and or failure fully to appreciate all the im­ determinations of the wages boards system, plications of a proposal on the part of the Police Service Board, the Public Service any single member. But if this respon­ Board and the Teachers Tribunal. sible approach is replaced by manoeu­ Later in the statement he added: vering for tactical advantage, as has The application of the principles laid down often occurred on the Teachers Tri­ in the national wage case decision, considered bunal, then that safeguard is lost. Noth­ as they are by the Government to be valid for ing has demonstrated more than this tribunals which determine wages and condi­ tions for the work force in general, has, in case that the Teachers Tribunal has the view of the Government, the same validity ceased in its present form to operate of application to those tribunals which fix effectively as a responsible salary fixing wages and conditions of Government em­ authority, acting on the basis of accept­ ployees. ed principles. Whilst it may be under­ The Premier's Ministerial statement was standable that an elected teacher repre­ circulated to the State tribunals men­ sentative will push for the maximum tioned, including the Teachers Tribunal, he can obtain, regardless of the evi­ and remained in force as Government dence, regardless of wage fixation prin­ policy at the date of the determination ciples, and regardless of consequences, now under consideration by the House. that is not in the Government's view an I t was suggested in the press-Age, acceptable or responsible approach. 16 February 1981-that the Govern­ Legislation to restructure the tribunal ment member who retired immediately can therefore be expected later this after the decision, was "deeply offended year. . .. by the Government's refusal to ex­ Equally unacceptable is departure tend his appointment on the tribunal". from proper wage fixing principles or The Government does not adopt the im­ disregard of clear Government policy putation that his action was motivated by a Government representative. The by that refusal. The fairer conclusion Government does not instruct its repre­ is that, under the pressure of the im­ sentative either generally or in relation portance of reaching a decision prior to any particular case. It reserves the to his retirement, he failed fully to ap­ right to advise the Government repre­ preciate the implications of his action sentative of Government policy and ex­ which was gleefully seized upon by the pects him to keep abreast of publicly elected representative. It is neverthe­ announced Government policies which less clear that he failed to have proper may be relevant. It expects him further regard to Government policy as set out The Hon. A. ]. Htmt 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5715 in the Premier's statement and to the disallow a decision by umpires who commission's guidelines which it adop­ have departed from the rules. That is ted. the very circumstance in which this reserve power ought to be used. It is The Victorian Government maintains essential that it should now be used to an Office of Industrial Relations Co­ uphold the rules, to ensure compJiance ordination and a Cabinet Industrial Re­ with them and to protect the orderly lations Committee, whose duties include process of wage fixation in accordance the monitoring of all salary and wage with clear and acceptable principles. determinations and the review of any The fact that the provision has never determinations which appear to depart previously been used does not establish from principle or to occasion budgetary, its obsolescence. On the contrary, this flow on or relativity problems. That case demonstrates the wisdom of the committee met on the date of the section in providing a reserve power tribunal decision in question and con­ sidered its implications in detail with which will require use in only the rarest the assistance of top industrial relations of cases. practitioners and Treasury and legal To paraphrase an earlier remark, the advisers. The committee concluded that Government supports restoration of it had no alternative other than to seek proper principles, supports their im­ to have the determination set aside be­ plementation by impartial and properly cause of its impl,ications for the com­ informed tribunals, and supports the munity as a whole, for the State Budget decisions of impartial umpires acting and for the very fabric of Australian within those principles. It cannot be wage fixation. expected to support decisions which The Government beHeved that the flout the rules. tribunal should in the first instance be The Government's purpose in bringing given the opportunity to review its own this matter before the House under the decision in the light of its circumstances procedures set out in the Act is to rec­ and 'implications and, by letter dated 6 tify an error of major proportions which February, invited the tribunal to under­ could have an incalculable impact upon take that review and make a fresh de­ the economy and the community. Our termination. On 11 February the objective is to return to proper wage tribunal declined to undertake that and salary fixing principles and order­ course and the matter now accordingly liness in their operation for the benefit comes before Parliament, as provided "by of everyone. That course is essential to section 58 (3) of the Teaching Service avoid a fresh round of inflation from Act 1958. which the whole community will suffer, There has been an attempt to argue and which would in any event quickly that this course represents a failure to erode the value of the award.· observe the rules and to accept the The purpose is the protection of vital umpire's decision. It is neither. The step community interests. It is certainly not being taken today is absolutely in accor­ directed against high school principals dance with the rules and is expressly as such, for the Government appreciates provided for in the legislation. In the their worth and their work, and has case of awards of State wages boards great sympathy for their position. The or of conciliation commissioners, situation is not of their making and, on appeals lie to the Industrial Appeals behalf of the Government, I express sin­ Court or the Australian Conciliation and cere regret that the need to protect com­ Arbitration Commission respectively. munity interests must bring about a In the case of the Public Service Board! delay in final determination of their Police Service Board and the Teachers claim. They would have been better Tribunal, the avenue of review is by served if their case had been heard and Parliament itself. Just as a referee in determined strictly within the Concilia­ tennis may on rare occasions overrule tion and Arbitration Commission's the umpire, so Parliament in this case guidelines with detailed reasons for the is being asked to act as referee and to decision, following a full and open 5716 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL analysis of relevant work value changes. The Hon. A. J. HUNT (Minister of It is hoped that principals generally will Education)-Considerable notice has appreciate that a decision which failed been given of the Government's to pay regard to those guidelines could intention to debate this matter and to not be allowed to stand. bring the motion before the House. It Disallowance of the present decision is a matter that ought to be dealt with will clear the way for a full review in­ urgently so that reconsideration can volving a proper work value reassess­ take place before the tribunal. It ought ment, based on a fair hearing of all not to be delayed. There has been ample necessary evidence and in accordance opportunity and honourable members with accepted principles designed to have known that the Government protect all parties, including the public. intended to bring the debate on today. It can be expected furthermore that the I should be perfectly happy to have the tribunal's new determination on the debate adjourned until later this day, issue will be accompanied by considered but an adjournment to a later date reasons for decision, which will demon­ would not be acceptable. strate that any increase granted falls The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU within the commission's guidelines. If (Doutta Galla Province) -It is true, as that occurs, the trauma which has so the Minister claims, that the proposal regrettably occurred in this case will to have the tribunal change its mind and not be repeated. to disallow the regulation was fairly To demonstrate its good faith towards well reported, and to claim that mem­ high school principals, the Government bers of the Opposition did not know will facilitate the earliest possible re­ about it would be nonsense, but the Min­ consideration and determination of their claim, will co-operate in the prompt ister has walked into the House with a supply of any information sought and small library and a series of documents will agree that any new salary level de­ that he claims should be read by hon­ termined in the case should operate ourable members for background pur­ retrospectively from 8 February 1981, poses. I have the reputation of being which is the date on which the one of the champions at speed reading challenged decision was intended to in my local town, but I certainly would come into operation. not claim the capacity to read the docu­ Whilst the Government deeply regrets ments in the time being made available. the circumstances which gave rise to Admittedly, the Minister, some time this motion, the paramount issue of the prior to the commencement of today's need to protect over-all community sitting, caused to have handed to me­ interests impels its presentation and, on and I presume to Mr Dunn-copies of that basis, the Government seeks the those documents. support of the House. The Hon. A. J. Hunt-It was this The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU morning, before lunch. (Doutta Galla Province)-I move: That the debate be adjourned until Tuesday The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-That next. may be right. It was certainly before The DEPUTY PRESIDENT (the Hon. 2 p.m. However, the reality is that Mr W. M. Campbell)-Order! I will put the Dunn and I are not the only two honour­ first part of the motion to the House able members interested in the debate. and then honourable members can pro­ Despite my protestations on a number of ceed to debate the period of adjourn­ occasions, both publicly and privately, ment. my office in this building has not been The motion for the adjournment of aff~r.d~d dup~icating or photostating the debate was agreed to. faCIlItIes, so It has not been possible The DEPUTY PRESIDENT (the Hon. to have copies of the documents dis­ W. M. CampbeU)--The question now is: tributed to members of the Labor Party. That the debate be adjourned until Tuesday I shall leave Mr Dunn to speak for him­ next. self in that regard. 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5717

The issue the motion invites the House The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-I am to debate is a fundamental principle and justifying my suggestion to the Leader no doubt much of the documentation of the House that if the matter was so contains only background material. urgent he could have used both those There is also no doubt that much of reasons to call Parliament together. what I might want to say would be That was not done. The Opposition supportive background material, but is now asked to race into a debate and that is only my view and it may not that is a most unfair request. It is be the view of a large number of against the traditions that the conser­ honourable members or the view of a vative members of this House proclaim majority of honourable members. It is are the functions of the House. The incumbent upon the Minister and on Opposition is being asked to race into the Government, when an issue as im­ a debate on a motion that has as its portant as the principle involved in this basis an attack on a fundamental prin­ matter is raised-quite regardless of the ciple. amount of money involved-to provide adequate time. Many of the assertions Debates on Bills are adjourned for contained in the Minister's speech are various reasons. Here is a fundamental far from accurate and are not logical issue of principle, which the Minister conclusions in the light of all the facts. of Education is asking the House to race If there is to be nothing more than an into debate on. Even the intervening exchange between the Leader of the period over the evening meal break House and Leaders of the other two would not allow sufficient time to study parties, that might be possible, but in the documents involved. I reiterate fairness to all other honourable mem­ that if the issue really has the urgency bers I believe they should have access the Minister claims, he should have to all the material so that they, too, acted responsibly by calling the Parlia­ can be informed on the matter. ment together earlier but he did not do that. Admittedly, the Minister in­ It seems to me to be quite extra­ troduced the measure at the first oppor­ ordinary that, although we have had tunity, but if the matter was all that notice of all sorts of intentions by the urgent, he should have called the Par­ Government, the normal practice has liament together. not been followed in that the Labor Party has not been given the courtesy It is traditional for this House and of being allowed to meet and to confer another place to adjourn such matters on the Government's proposal in order so that those parties that have not had to determine its course of action. I the opportunity of thoroughly examining should not want to mislead the House and discussing the matter can have into believing that members of the Op­ such an opportunity. The Opposition, position have not discussed the matter. which represents a majority of electors We have certainly done that as a party, of this State, should have been afforded although we have not formally made that courtesy and respect. In any event, decisions in the normal way about the the standard of debate will be much course to be adopted. less informed if busy honourable mem­ I do not understand the rush. If the bers have not had the opportunity to matter is as urgent as the Minister sug­ read the documents that have been gests-and I know that the tribunal met presented to the House this afternoon. some time ago on this matter-I point out that the Government has had some­ Mr Butler, Mr Eddy and I could talk thing like six weeks in which it could all night on our associations with the have called Parliament together. After preparation of wage claims and assess­ all, the Minister for Local Government ments. That would give other honour­ has so much egg on his face that he able members the opportunity to read cannot even introduce his own Bill. the documents. However, I am not The DEPUTY PRESIDENT (the Hon. suggesting that the House should W. M. Campbell)-Order! How is that seriously contemplate that course of relevant? action. 5718 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL The documents presented are im­ which is the section which he is at portant in terms of background infor­ present using. There is an allowance mation. I know that Mr Dunn and in section 58 (3) where the disal­ others are well-briefed in their specialist lowance clause comes into effect. There areas, but not all honourable members is an allowance of 30 days. That section are in the same position. Every hon­ states: ourable member will have to vote on If within thirty days after any regulation what will be put to the House, in the has been laid before both Houses of Parliament strongest terms, as a fundamental prin­ each House of Parliament passes a resolution ciple of wage fixation. Therefore, it disallowing that regulation the regulation so is incumbent upon every honourable disallowed shall thereupon cease to have effect. member to study the documents and There is no cause for the Minister to make themselves properly and well­ be concerned that there ,is no time to informed On the issue. allow for an adjournment of the debate. There is a 30-day allowance, which In those circumstances, I implore the means that the prospect of a short ad­ Minister of Education to take on board journment of the debate is easily accom­ my proposition and wait until after the modated and honourable members judgment on Friday and give all hon­ should have the opportunity to prepare ourable members an opportunity to properly for the debate. A precedent is examine in detail the documents pre­ being established. This section has sented to the House this afternoon. never been used 'before. The Hon. B. P. DUNN (North Western Proper time should be allowed to Province)-This is an extremely im­ prepare for the debate, because the portant matter which deals with the matter will go down in the annuals of wage fixation principles and an im­ this Parliament as being an ,important portant part of the total education issue. The section allows for a 30-day scene in the present and the future. 1 period in which to prepare ,for a proper appreciate the courtesy of the Minister debate before the disallowance pro­ of Education in providing various docu­ vision comes into effect. That is a ments. 1 have had some time to look proper course of action. However, it is briefly through the documents but 1 not proper to use the Teaching Service certainly have not had sufficient time in Act and ,its sections in one fashion with­ which to study them in detail. out ensuring that provision be made The Minister came into the House within that Act for other things to with a thirteen-page prepared document, occur. The 30-day provision has been which he raced through without varia­ inserted to allow for proper preparation tion. The House is now expected to of an important issue. debate the full text of what the Minis­ Why rush? Why one day? It does not ter said after the suspension of the make sense. There is provision in the sitting for dinner. It is unfair that the Act and that provision ought to be taken House should be expected to do this. advantage of. The Opposition is not The National Party would appreciate asking for the 30 days. The Opposition an adjournment of the debate until next is asking for an adjournment of the Tuesday so that its members could con­ debate of approximately one week so as sider the additional information that to prepare for a proper debate. If the has only just been provided in the form matter is not important why did the Minister read thirteen pages of a pre­ ot' a thirteen-page document. The pared speech? If the Minister had a good National Party believes that debate on case he would have spoken without the matter should be adjourned until referring to those typed pages, but he next Tuesday. had to word it so carefully that he had The Hon. E. H. WALKER (Melbourne to read a long statement. If that is a Province) -I draw the attention of the reflection of the importance that the Minister of Education to the relevant Minister places on the issue, why the part of the Teaching Service Act 1958, rush? Why is it that the House debate 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5719 the issue with so little time to prepare, this supposed House of Review? The but the Minister addresses the House Minister pointed out that the Teachers from a carefully written statement and Tribunal dealt with the issue in two the Act allows a proper delay? days, but expects this House to deal with it in one day. What sort of logic The Minister is not using the House is that? The Government has not put properly. The Minister is attempting to forward a case to support that argu­ rush a motion through in a contemp­ ment and for these reasons the matter tuous piece of Parliamentary behaviour. should be adjourned until at least next I support the call for a reasonable ad­ Tuesday. journment of the debate to allow for a reasonable debate to occur. The Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE (Geelong Province) -As a member of The Hon. J. V. C. GUEST (Monash the Opposition who wanted to take part Province) -I rise as one 'who has been in this debate, I have not had an oppor­ referred to as a conservative member tunity of fully studying the thirteen­ of the House and one who wishes to see page document. Nor have I had access its full potential made proper use of. I to other documents made available to should agree with much that has been the Leaders of the two opposing parties. put on behalf of the Opposition were it not for the fact that there is nothing in I am concerned that the Government is the case that the Government is making, treating the Legislative Council with which the Opposition is not or could contempt. I am a great believer in the not have been fully aware of. The Parliamentary system and I can under­ Minister and the Government have been stand that because of the Opposition's entirely candid in recent weeks. The small numbers, the Government can parties concerned in this dispute are treat the Opposition with contempt available for discussion and the action knowing that it will win with its num­ of the Opposition today has been noth­ bers. ing but the expression of a desire for I can accept the fact that the Govern­ delay in Government business. ment treats members of the Labor Party The Hon. D. R. WHITE (Doutta Galla with contempt but I find it completely Province) -The Government has not intolerable that it treats the Parliamen­ demonstrated any case for urgency. In tary system with contempt and that is response to Mr Guest's remarks, it is what is taking place. The Minister has clear that the thirteen-page paper was come forward with a prepared document not made available to members of the without giving members of the Opposi­ Opposition or the National Party until tion a chance to prepare an argument today. The Government has had since and have some form of debate. The 8 February to handle the issue. Sudden­ Government knows that it will win in lyon 11 March the matter becomes ur­ the end. However, members of the'Op­ gent. The Government has not demon­ position should be given the opportun­ strated why it waited eight weeks and ity of putting forward a valid argument. then made the issue urgent. Mr Walker On this occasion the Government is clearly indicated that the matter needs treating the Parliament with contempt. to lay on the table and the Parliament should have 30 days in which to act. The Hon. A. J. HUNT ,(Minister of Education) -Perhaps I would not regard During the course of his thirteen­ page speech the Minister of Education Mr Landeryou's remarks so much as made a great deal out of the fact that crocodile tears if I were not a ware from the Police Tribunal case went for 130 members of his party and from members days and the Teachers Tribunal case of the National Party that both their went for only two days, and asserted respective parties yesterday considered that something was wrong about that. the issue and formed party views upon Now the Parliament is expected to deal it. They solemnly determined in their with the issue in one day. What sort of party meetings the views they should principles is the Minister applying to take in the House. 5720 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL I have been informed of the views sidered the matter, and that he would they are taking and I must presume that have certain documents to table for the honourable members were properly in­ information of the House. formed and did not take their decisions Honourable members interjecting. lightly without believing that they fully knew the facts and were ready to debate The DEPUTY PRESIDENT (the Hon. the issue. Apparently yesterday the W. M. Campbell)-Honourable members Opposition and the National Party be­ are speaking on a simple motion and lieved they needed no further informa­ should not be engaging in cross-fire in tion before making up their minds. the House. In fact, I do not think we will have it afterwards either! I t is a charade to come to this House The Hon. A. J. HUNT-If that argu­ and talk, tongue in cheek, about the ment is accepted, when Mr Landeryou need for further time to consider the ultimately tables his further documents issues when yesterday Mr Landeryou there would need to be a further ad­ introduced a debate on the basis of journment to consider those. I know allegations of an unspecified nature that members of my party may during against individuals who had not been the debate also refer to additional docu­ adequately identified in advance and ments. Whether they will want to table required members to proceed immedi­ those documents or whether others will ately to answer a case of which there thereupon want a further adjournment had been no semblance of proper notice. again to consider any new documents In this case I shall deal with the re­ introduced, I do not know. However, mark made by Mr White that the Gov­ it is perfectly common and legitimate ernment somehow "suddenly" brought to refer to additional documents during the matter before the Parliament. On a debate, and I would not like to see 12 February the Teachers Tribunal was this sensible practice inhibited in any advised that this course would be taken way. I have never previously heard any and a detailed statement of the grounds suggestion that the introduction of docu­ upon which the Government was acting ments or press statements during debate was provided to the press. That state­ should constitute grounds for adjourn­ ment was fully reported in the press ment of the debate, although this might and the grounds upon which the Govern­ apply if the documents took the House ment proposed to act were set out. entirely by surprise. What I have done today is to elaborate Let us stop trying to fool ourselves. upon those grounds, which have been The parties have made up their minds well known for a month. This morning and everyone is in fact prepared. The I provided files to the representatives spokesmen for the parties are prepared of the other two parties, containing and those members of the other parties relevant documents and information, who have developed a sudden interest rather than simply referring to the docu­ at the last moment in reading the rele­ ments for the first time in the course vant documentation can certainly now of debate and leaving honourable mem­ have the opportunity of doing so over bers to ferret out the information for the dinner adjournment. I move: That in place of the words "Tuesday next" themselves, as so often occurs. I do not there be substituted the expression "this day for a moment believe that members of at 8 o'clock". the National Party and the Opposition The House divided on the question were unprepared. Honourable members that the words proposed by Mr Hunt had considerable time to prepare for the be omitted stand part of the motion debate and knew it was coming before (the Hon. W. M. Campbell in the chair) . the House this week. Mr Landeryou has Ayes 16 certainly prepared for this debate. That Noes 24 he has prepared is indicated by the remarks made earlier today about the Majority for the omission motion for tabling of certain documents, of the words 8 when he made it clear that he had con- The Hon. A. J. Hunt 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5721

AYES The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU Mr Butler Mr Trayling (Doutta Galla Province) -The extra­ Mrs Coxsedge Mr Walker ordinary thing about this proposal is Mr Dunn Mr Walton Mr Kennedy Mr White that it says very much for the current Mr Kent Mr Wright Minister. I do not know what it is about Mr Landeryou that particular job-I have started to Mr Mackenzie Tellers: rethink about my personal ambitions in Mr Sgro Mr Eddy Mr Thomas Mr Evans that regard-but having regard to the disease afflicting the present Minister's NOES predecessor as Leader of the House, Mrs Baylor Mr Knowles when he was riding around in a Govern­ Mr Block Mr Lawson ment car and picked out land that the Mr Bubb Mr Long Mr Crozier Mr Radford Housing Commission should buy, the Mr Granter Mr Reid present Minister of Education seems to Mr Guest Mr Stacey be almost drawn, as if by a magnet, Mr Hamilton Mr Storey towards personal involvement with in­ Mr Hauser Mr Taylor Mr Hayward Mr Ward tricate detail, and he is missing as if Mr Houghton almost by design, the principles involv­ Or Howard Tellers: ed with which his action is interfering. Mr Hunt Mr Chamberlain I t is as if he were Minister of Trans­ Mr Jenkins Or Foley port~ and there was a massive railway accident, and he went to his office and PAIR found some paper dealing with a new Mr Baxter Mr Saltmarsh method of operating ticket machines, which then preoccupied him for the day, The words proposed by Mr Hunt to and he ignored the disaster all round be inserted were so inserted. him. The present Minister of Education The motion, as amended, was agreed is developing all the symptoms of his to, and it was ordered that the debate predecessor. be adjourned until later this day. The Hon. A. J. Hunt-At least I have not grown thin like him. COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-He ASSOCIATION believes he has grown wiser, doing what he is really good at-at the race track. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT (the Hon. I am one of those who shared a fair W. M. Campbell)-Before vacating the degree of appreciation of the capacity chair for the suspension of the sitting and skill of the Minister of Education, for dinner, I remind honourable mem­ particularly in the previous portfolios bers of the important special general that he held. One of the extraordinary meeting of the Commonwealth Parlia­ thing's about this particular proposal, mentary Association to be held in the from this man as Minister of Education, Legislative Council committee room at is that he is proposing to the Parlia­ 7.30 p.m. ment for the first time that the pro­ The sitting was suspended at 6.17 p.m. visions that have been in this Act since until 8.5 p.m. 1946 will be used to enable this Parlia­ ment to set aside a decision of a much­ HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPALS SALARY maligned tribunal. DETERMINA TION The Hon. A. J. Hunt-Are you saying The debate (adjourned from earlier that those provisions should never be this day) on the motion of the Hon. A. used? J. HUNT (Minister of Education) for The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-Ob­ the disallowance of the Teaching Ser­ viously the then very wise Minister of vice Secondary Schools Division (Clas­ Education at the time, in 1946, had in sification, Salaries, and Allowances) mind that the Parliament might well Regulation, Amendment No. 538 was re­ want to use those sorts of provisions. sumed, The question is always one of appropri- 5722 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL ateness, and this is an issue I will take the Parliament to intercede, not because with the Minister, seeing that he did of the methodology that was used in the not give the Labor Party an opportunity wage examination, not because the Gov­ of formal consideration of this proposal. ernment, in accordance with Govern­ Let me take the House through one ment policy, did not exercise its right or two fairly keen and fundamental to make a submission to the tribunal, issues that arise from the Minister's per­ but because of the quantum of the formance on this issue alone. First of amount awarded-the 15 per cent. all, he, like his predecessor, boasted that In wage fixing, this Government has it is not the Government's policy to a record of being inconsistent. It has make submissions to the Teachers Tri­ repeatedly, despite what the Leader of bunal. That has been a proud boast of the House suggested tonight, been re­ the Minister of Education. It has been sponsible for sending highly paid, highly a consistent boast by that look-alike priced, highly qualified barristers to the escapee from the horror camp of his pre­ Conciliation and Arbitration Commis­ decessor in the portfolio, the Honour­ sion to argue before the Full Bench on able Lindsay Thompson, that in fact behalf of the State Government against the Government's policy was to insist the concept of wage indexation. that the teachers should abide by the The Minister interjects by way of a umpire's decision. If Mr Chamberlain stage whisper that I have got it wrong. is upset about what I referred to con­ Obviously he has not listened to what cerning the Deputy Leader in another I have said in the past on a number of place, he should have heard what one occasions, when I have taken the House of his Ministers said about him earlier through the basic inconsistency of the this evening. State Government's advocates employed The reality is, that this Minister, like and instructed to appear before the his predecessor, has always claimed that Arbitration Commission and argue one it was the responsibility of the unions way at one hearing and the other at to abide by the umpire's decision. It is the next. They have consistently put no secret that the umpire the Minister forward a proposition which would take referred to during the speech he read the value of wage indexation out of the to the House earlier tonight is in fact wage earner's pocket. one of three men, two of whom were That is the role of Government. It is appointed by the Government. No won­ proper for any employer organization, der the Liberal Government has a policy and Government or interested party to of not bothering to make submissions put before a tribunal evidence when it to a tribunal of which it appoints two can claim that public interest justifies out of three members. The Minister their intervention to put such an argu­ now suggests that because the tribunal ment. In those circumstances I do not has made a decision which, from his take issue with that right. I question point of view, is not acceptable, then the advice that is given to the advocates the Government must rewrite the rules. who often put contradictory submissions The attitude of the Government is before that tribunal. It is nonsense to that it employs the players, nominates suggest that is wrong because I have two of three umpires and now wants put that proposition to the House on a to exercise its rights as the owner of number of occasions in recent years the stadium, call off the game and re­ without being challenged. write the rules. That is what the Min­ ister is dOing. In this instance, the Government has said, in full knowledge that two out of I know there are members of the the three umpires were appointed by Government who are uneasy about this the Government, that there is therefore approach being adopted. I suppose they no necessity to put its argument to the have gone so far with this nonsensical umpire. It is rather like someone in this proposal out of respect and admiration House raising a point of order and my for their Leader. It is a nonsensical having a considered and strong con­ proposal because the Minister is asking viction on that particular point of order The Hon. W. A. Landeryou 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5723 and after you, Mr President, have ruled of so they ganged up on him, they did differently and against my conviction not get their own way and there was 1 complain. In fact, it is worse than that an increase. because the Minister has boasted that The Hon. A. J. HUNT (Minister of it is Government policy not to make a Education) -On a point of order: submission to the tribunal. That has Honourable members have an obligation been the consistent position. to be reasonably accurate. I dealt with The Hon. A. J. Hunt-I boasted! the matter of Mr Baker and the in­ nuendoes circulating against him within The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU the teaching profession and imputed by -The Minister has always told the some in the press, and on behalf of the teachers, when he was bashing them Government expressly rejected the in­ and defending the lovely principals that ference that he was motivated by pique it is really the tribunal-- at the failure of his re-appointment. I The Hon. A. J. Hunt-You used the made it absolutely plain that that argu­ word "boasted". ment was not accepted by the Govern­ ment, and indicated very clearly my The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU view of the background of his decision. -I find it difficult to believe that many of the points put to this House so elo­ The PRESIDENT (the Hon. F. S. quently and colourfully by the Minister Grimwade)-There is no point of order. are anything less than boasting. The The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU reality is that the Minister has said con­ (Doutta Galla Province) -Because of sistently by way of public advice and the tactics the Government has forced political point scoring to teachers who upon the Opposition, the honourable genuinely had a grievance that they gentleman will have an opportunity of should abide by the umpire's decision. entering the debate again and perhaps It may be uncomfortable to face those then making explanations. I was about facts. I can go back to a position, in to explain that that is the background terms of principals of our schools, who deliberately created to cast aspersions in 1978 received what may be, from against the tribunal for the purpose of anyone else's viewpoint of wage imp­ challenging the decision. It is a legiti­ rovements-a mere pittance. After con­ mate industrial tactic but is very un­ siderable reluctance the principals and usual for an employer who has refused their industrial organization accepted and declined by choice the right to the Minister's advice that they should make submissions to a tribunal to then abide by arbitration and accept the um­ castigate the basis of that particular pire's decision. finding. In this instance the Minister is pro­ If the Minister of Education or any posing to this House, and this House other member of the Government had alone at this stage, that we should dis­ a point to put that should have been allow a decision by a tribunal which, examined and considered by the tri­ to all intents and purposes, was an bunal, the time to have done so would independent tribunal-a tribunal which have been before the decision and not was empowered by legislative force to afterwards. By interjection, the Minis­ act with regard to its claim. Earlier this ter of Education suggested earlier that evening the Minister said, in a document Parliament had some interest in the he read to the House, that in his con­ decision being made. Perhaps that is so. sidered view the case presented by the Perhaps it is suggested in the inference Victorian High Schools Principals by interjection that the decision should Association to the Teachers Tribunal in never have been set aside. November was a similar argument. The F or many years, the teaching pro­ implication was that one member of the fes.sion has been critical of the wage­ tribunal 'was about to depart and was fixmg procedures and the operations snakey and the chairman had lost generally of the tribunal and the time control and the ratbag from the union to have corrected those, instead of was someone they would not take notice being pre-occupied with inflamatory 5724 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL regulations being introduced, was to do experience in the industrial arena, I something positive about them in bring­ assure him that any such long sub­ ing the working party to a satisfactory mission is, in fact, a well sort out conclusion. proposal, as indeed this was. The Minister resisted that propostion The Hon. A. J. Hunt-Have you ever and accepted the opportunity of going appealed against an arbitrary decision? on a union bash. One of the problems when a Minister starts to become per­ The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-I did sonally involved in that sort of decision­ tonight and lost when the ruling went making is that it leads to unstable Gov­ a~ainst me. This particular organization ernment, as has occurr~d in Victoria, dId what the law required it to do. In where there is confusion, lack of leader­ 1978 it accepted a miserable hand-out ship and much public misunderstanding from the tribunal. It went to the Gov­ about the role of Parliament and the ernment and to the appointed tribunal role of Government. and put its case. It gave advance warn­ ing to the Minister, who keeps sticking Surely, if one is to adopt the argu­ his nose into the details of his depart­ ment of the Attorney-General when ment, about the responsibilities of dealing with the judges salaries legisla­ school principals. In 1978 the tribunal tion in the last sessional period-and I had said to the department, the Govern­ could be hoist with my own petard-I ment and the employee organizations put the point that tribunals that are when an appeal was before it that there asking Parliament to agree to specific should be an adoption of the revised legislation and to carry it with legis­ principles outlined by the Conciliation lative force should in fact disclose their and :~rbitration Commission for wage reasons. The Attorney-General said fixatIon, ~he so-called wage guidelines, that it was unusual for such tribunals and, havll~g said that to the parties, not to give full disclosure. I, of course, those partIes went before the tribunal said that in the case of a tribunal that asserting that their last salary increase was asking another body to act on their ~as in March 1978 with the adjustments recommendation, then disclosure was SInce that time in line with the national necessary. That is not the case in this wage cases even though it was assumed instance. An argument has been put that the nature of the work, skill and by the Minister that there has been a responsibility required of principals departure from the wage-fixing prin­ had not changed. ciple enunciated and laid down by the Conciliation and Arbitration Commis­ The association was arguing quite sion and I shall trace briefly the history correctly in accordance with the wage­ of this matter. fixation principles laid down by the I stress that I make no valued judg­ commission that since their last review ment about the specific conclusion in May 1978 and a decision of the same drawn by the tribunal. I am not in tribunal, the only adjustments that had that position and nor is the Minister. occurred as a result of Teachers Tri­ That is the first principle of industrial bunal decisions on high school prin­ relations of which he is in breach. He cipals had been as a result of national is the employer-admittedly from some wage full bench determinations in the distance-and these employees adopted Conciliation and Arbitration Com­ the procedure laid down by the Govern­ mission. Therefore, the organization ment and the Parliament in having their satisfied the guidelines of the com­ salaries reviewed. mISSIon. It argued before the tribunal of .the Government, as the agency in That is a normal procedure in society which to hear and determine its claim. -the rules were there for all to be It had nowhere else to go. guided by and this organization adopted those rules and acted on them accord­ The Government stated that it would ingly by going to the tribunal. The not negotiate directly with the union Minister suggested that not much of a that the union must go through th~ case was put. As one who has had some arbitration process available to it, which The Hon. W. A. Landeryou 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5725 is the Teachers Tribunal-the two out ment decided to disallow a decision by of three clockwork orange situation. The the tribunal that it set up and super­ union's submission is lengthy and in­ vises. cludes the responsibilities of high school I turn to paragraph 2 of the sub­ principals. In putting this to the House mission by the high school principals I make no valued judgment about the to the tribunal. It is important to under­ claims made nor about the conclusions stand what the union was putting. It that the tribunal reached, and nor reads: should the Minister. It is important that Although lists of duties of other adminis­ the House understands this. trative personnel of the Education Depart­ ment (e.g. principals of the Board of Inspec­ The union, fully conscious of its tors of Secondary Schools) are available, and responsibilities, is saying this. . I ~m despite efforts by the Victorian High Sch~oI not talking about some orgamzatIon Principals Association to have the employmg which Mr Hamilton would describe as body define the role and responsibilities of Principalship, no such lists of duties have ever Socialist left or Socialist right. It is been published. It is therefore difficult to not an extreme group. It is not even compare a modern list of duties with those affiliated with the Victorian Trades Hall of a few years ago, noting additional or deleted Council. It is the Victorian High School duties. At the last salary claim, a detailed list of the responsibilities were submitted Principals Association, and providing and the VHSPA wishes now simply to say my young boy does not read Hansard, that all of these and new duties are generally I suppose I can talk with more virtuous acknowledged to be responsibilities of the language about the high school prin­ Principal. Because of the greater complexity of Principalship, the VHSPA would like to draw cipals of this country. This association, attention to the following roles carried out fully conscious of its industrial obliga­ by Principals. tions to its membership, fitting in neatly In the pages that follow the association and obediently to the Government's lists the creative role and it quotes pattern of industrial relations, "You go Judge Olsen's role, the education role, off and put your argument to the the managerial role, and goes on to the tribunal that the Government has duties of the teaching profession. appointed to hear your claims and the Government will abide by the umpires' I do not wish to go through the claim decision, but so must you", put its case in detail. Central to my argument is to the tribunal. That has been the the point that it is not a role for Par­ position of the Government for a quarter liament to set up a tribunal, give it of a century. It is the same position power to make legislation which is what that the Government has put to the it in fact does as a committee appointed trade union movement. The Govern­ by this Parliament and then sit in judg­ ment abides by the decision of the ment after the event. This association umpire, so long as it suits the Govern­ went through its submission in great ment to do so. detail before a tribunal, and if one was to place any value on the Minister's This small but significant group criticism of the tribunal it is possibly which is significant in the sense that correct to say that a tribunal which it represents important people in the in ordinary circumstances pretends to education apparatus, the practitioners make a work value judgment without in the field who carry so much respon­ examining the work is taking a Jack sibility-the school principals-applied London's definition of work value per­ to the tribunal. Last year in defence haps too literally. However, this tri­ of the principals, the Minister saved bunal was well-versed in the teaching some of his most vitriolic language for profession, in the examination of schools attacks on the lower echelons of the and other classifications within its juris­ educational profession. He talked about diction and, over a long period, had nervous breakdowns, people going off visited many schools, interviewed and on extended long service leave and so observed many principals. It was ex­ on, with all the emotional jargon that pected that the members of the tribunal one expects from the Leader of the would have specialist knowledge of this Government. However, the Govern- specialist profession. There is no doubt 5726 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL that each member of that tribunal would Peter Vaughan because he, like any have had a working knowledge of the union advocate, said, "Thank you for changes in the nature of work and in the 15 per cent, but we are off for the value of the work by principals 25 per cent somewhere else". Even a within the Education Department. novice with an hour's experience in in­ If the tribunal had made a decision dustrial relations would know what an which was more acceptable to the value ambit clause would be and would under­ that the Minister desired to place on stand the argument about flow-on and school principals, honourable members in terms of relativities, that claim was would have heard none of this nonsense; met. The union itself and the tribunal the decision would have gone the way have put the argument in terms of rela­ of most decisions of the Teachers tivity. Tribunal. It would have been buried The Minister claims to be pre-occu­ through the effluxion of time. If a mis­ pied with relativities when Parliament take had occurred, at some stage in the argues about the high salaries paid to future a correction would have been judges and the salary increase issues made. which have been debated in this Cham­ No outburst was made by the Min­ ber. The argument used by the Attor­ ister of Education when the principals ney-General to defend that particular were awarded only 3 per cent in 1978, decision by the Government was a despite the trend in the community relativity argument. It was based on the standards that year. No indication was increases that had occurred in other given by the Government that the tri­ States and the Government believed bunal had erred and that because of that this should be taken into consider­ that, and because of the hard-working ation with respect to the salaries of and dedicated nature of the principals judges. That is outside the guidelines. of our schools, the Government would The Full Bench of the Arbitration Com­ of its own motion make a suggestion mission has said time and time again to the tribunal to change its decision. that relativities of themselves-except The action of the Government is con­ to the extent of anomalies; and that was sistent with its industrial relations policy a correction in 1978 some three years of all care but no responsibility. It says, after the adoption of the guidelines­ "Go to the umpire and ask what you are not an argument. can get. Accept his decision and if it The Hon. A. J. Hunt-What about 7 goes your way, we will appeal. If we (b) and the "catch up" clause? cannot appeal, we will change the law so that we can. If we do not change The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-As the law we will wait patiently until one of those responsible for having Parliament gets together and we will some of those clauses re-written into introduce a proposition which disallows wage indexation, I am pleased that the the umpire's decision." If that code of Minister is so "full bottled" about them. ethics operated at Flemington, there The tribunal decided-and the Minister would not be a picket fence around the has not told honourable members this­ racecourse. No one would go there, that it was qualified, without inspec­ because the judge's decision would be tions, to proceed to determine the mat­ changed simply because it was not liked. ter. This was done On the basis of work In this case the Minister can change the value, by the tribunal, conscious of its decision because he controls the ground. obligations, determined by itself to fol­ Although the Minister claims to be con­ low principles laid down by the Arbitra­ cerned, and has used the phrase "rocked tion Commission with respect to wage Australia"-- indexation. The principles of wage in­ The Hon. A. J. Hunt-The phrase was dexation were to be embraced because "sent shockwaves". of its expertise. This is as one would expect. A member of a tribunal who The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-De­ has spent considerable time going spite the colourful language, there is around schools would be extremely con­ nothing more nonsensical than to blame scious of the obligation on the prin- 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5727 cipals interviewed in all of these schools. writer, is trotted out as having some The mem ber of the tribunal could see particular expertise with respect to them at work and observe their per­ salary increases. He, like the Minister, formance. is quite wrong in asserting that the Therefore, we have the submission percentage increase awarded by that and a unanimous agreement. It was not tribunal makes it some sort of unique a two-to-one agreement-none of that decision. I shall refer to some recent nonsense. The decision was not split. awards. The whole tribunal said that there was The Hon. A. J. Hunt-The Age no need to visit any schools because editorial supported the increase. from their own personal experience on The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-I was the tribunal its members knew enough suggesting that the Minister was assert­ about the work of the people they ing that by using the education writer were being asked to consider. I shall of the Age's words-it is for the hon­ refer to the draft decision that was pro­ ourable member to judge whether they posed on 30 January by the chairman are out of context-the Minister im­ of the Teachers Tribunal. I shall read plied that the Age education writer out the appropriate clause so honour­ is an industrial expert. He is not. The able members know that I am not under­ Minister has claimed that the 15 per scoring the matter dramatically. The cent increase was excessive. However, chairman stated: in recent times the Victorian hospital In view of all of the evidence the Tribunal pharmacists received pay increases in determined that the case as presented by the excess of 15 per cent. The New South VHSPA under clause 2 (a) of the wage index­ ation guidelines has been made out success­ Wales Police Force has received in­ fully. creases of up to 13· 5 per cent. Therefore, it was a successful case. The The Hon. A. J. Hunt-Could you chairman of the tribunal says in his draft supply the date of the pharmacists' decision, which was presented for con­ award? sideration on 30 January, that this was the case. It was a unanimous decision The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-I and there was no need for an inspection. would have to look it up. The South The tribunal believed that is what it is Australian lawyers-I suppose the hon­ paid to do because it has been involved ourable member would agree with in the presentation of evidence for a that-have received increases ranging long time. The tribunal believed it had up to 25 per cent. Of course, the Vic­ the necessary expertise. Therefore, the toria Police Force has received increases tribunal believed it could proceed to up to 11· 93 per cent, which was a hear the case without further evidence most justly deserved entitlement. The collected by way of inspection. The New South Wales regional directors of tribunal listened to the case put by the health received increases of 12 per cent. union advocates and that was its con­ One could argue whether those areas clusion. It was a unanimous action could be considered comparable. The within the guideJines of work value and old relativity, catch-up argument can the tribunal believed it possessed suf­ be advanced. The central issue is that ficient experience. That occurred prior it is nonsensical to argue that the sole to Christmas and submissions were ground for disallowance is that the heard in January. The tribunal believed figure of 15 per cent in itself is auto­ it knew what was involved and that matically a sole ground for dis­ it was within the guideJines. allowance. The tribunal then proceeded to make The Hon. A. J. Hunt-That is not the a decision with respect to an increase, argument. an argument was put and a value judg­ The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-That ment was made by the Government is the motivation. It was the argument about the particular increase. Indeed, of the Minister as set out On page 1 that well-known international industrial of the statement. The Minister argued relations expert, the Age education in terms of shock waves around the 5728 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL

nation and said that the tribunal did who says that that is not his reason not give any reasons for its decisions. for being excited about the decision, is The statement, quoting the Age educa­ stuck with the reality of his previous tion writer, stated: arguments, because out of his own the principals' $4000 a year salary boost is mouth have fallen the words, "a shock the first by any Australian wage fixing body wave around Australia". to break with the former wage indexation guidelines. As one who often interferes, some­ times with great skill, in matters relating The whole theme of the statement of to the portfolios of industrial relations the Minister to honourable members handled by the Minister's colleagues, today and his presentation to the public. I put it this way: How much confidence has been that if the school principals' can a union be expected to have in a increase could stand alone and we could Minister and his Government when that avoid another flow-on, the matter Minister and that Government con­ would be re-examined. Therefore, the tinually tell that union and its associated Government is taking money out of the unions to abide by the instructions, to pockets of school principals because it comply with the umpire's decision, and is not sure of the result. The Minister then, having told them that consistently is stuck with the inconsistency of his for a quarter of a century-they have own decision. The Minister has argued, played the ball often with the miserable which he is entitled to do, but he must 3 per cent principles and did not jack be consistent. The honourable gentle­ the State up or take great exception: man has argued that we should abide They probably thought it was a bit by the umpire's decision, and that is a miserly but at least they accepted it proper position: I can understand that. and prepared their case for next time­ That argument has great force from the they prepared the case within the frame­ person using it, particularly if that per­ work of the Government which con­ son appoints the umpire. The union was sistently advised them to abide by the prepared to operate on that arrangement umpire's decision and are now told that when two out of three members were that is not on. It was all right to accept appointed by the Government, because the umpire's decision when the price it knew the rules, but now the Minister was lower, but now it is too high and proposes to change the rules. therefore the system is to be changed. The Hon. A. J. Hunt-No, we propose What confidence can the Government to ensure that they are observed. expect to build with the employee The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-The organizations when the Minister has Minister has argued that the rules are been party to asserting that the Govern­ those of the Arbitration Commission­ ment's principle is to abide by the that is, the rules of the tribunal's in­ umpire's decision, but that when the dexation principles. I am at a loss to decision goes against the interests of understand the basis of that argument, the employer, who sets up the tribunal, because even the final dissenting judg­ can say, "We are going to change the ment of the tribunal chairman, Mr Ken­ rules"? nedy, argued that a work value case The Hon. A. J. Hunt-We will use the had been established. His only disagree­ rules and reinforce them and insist that ment with his colleagues on the tribunal they be observed. was as to percentage: He would have awarded a smaller percentage than The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-If 15 per cent. that sort of logic can be followed by the back-bench members of the Liberal I cannot assess one way or the other, Party, who are as concerned as I am and neither can the House nor the Min­ about the massive departure from prin­ ister, what the appropriate percentage ciple involved in this mattel, it is no is. The Teachers Tribunal, for good or wonder that Adolph Hitler was able bad, has traditionally been the agency to persuade the German people to of government through which to settle follow him. I understand the Min­ that vexed question. Yet the Minister, ister's embarrassment because I think 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5729 even he is sensitive enough to under­ mandered House, I can easily control it, stand that there is something more than although I am a bit worried about the just hypocritical about a Government numbers that Frank Wilkes must win which says, "go to arbitration, abide by tonight in the Lower House in the vote the umpire's decision, but as soon as on the want-of-confidence motion." we get a decision for the first time since The Minister is putting to the House 1946 that we do not like, we are not a proposition based on no other premise only going to change the composition than that the 15 per cent was excessive. and the panel of the tribunal, but, we are actually going to disallow an earlier The Hon. A. J. Hunt-That is non­ decision." sense, and you know it. Many of the important aspects of this The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-Tell case can be glossed over, but one thing me where it is nonsense. will stand out, in my view, when the The Hon. A. J. Hunt-Perhaps you history of wage fixation in this State is might care to read the submission as a written, and that will be the attempt, whole. It is based on a complete dis­ successful or unsuccesful, by the Gov­ regard of the rules and the assumption ernment to disallow the decision of a that indexation no longer applied, both tribunal of its own making, after it has of which are unacceptable assumptions. preached for a quarter of a century to The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-One the world at large that it should accept of the extraordinary things about the the umpire's decision. It is unmistak­ Government is that it can take half a ably clear that the Government, i~ view fact and produce that as if it were or­ of its appalling record in industrIal re­ dained from the Mount as some golden lations, has not learnt from its past mis­ rule. It is not unnatural for an advocate takes. It may have been stupid not to before a tribunal to use whatever argu­ make submissions to a tribunal which ment he can embrace to advance his the Government was thinking of chang­ case. It may be that the Minister feels ing. I suppose, with the advantage of a bit stupid because he did not turn up hindsight, the Minister now regrets that, to put a countervailing argument and to but that is the decision he made. meet the point which he now wants to The other decision the Minister made use the Parliament to make. The Min­ was to maintain the tribunal. Ministerial ister is now stuck with the procedures responsibility has never amounted to that he has laid down time and again. much in terms of the Hamer Govern­ ment's morality, but at least at some In terms of the wage-fixing tribunal­ stage one expected that the Minister in this case, the Teachers Tribunal-it would accept the responsibility for his does not matter; that is irrelevant. What own department's actions. However, is relevant is that the tribunal unamin­ this Minister not only wants to say, "I ously determined that it did not need will appoint the tribunal and if that does inspections, and the Minister referred not suit me, I will rearrange the person­ to that as though it were a cardinal sin. nel and structure of it, and if that still The tribunal said it did not need to does not suit me I will restructure it", and unanimously agreed. The chairman but when the tribunal makes a decision said on 30 January that the criteria for under the Minister's guard, even if he work value and guidelines in the na­ is a couple of days late in reacting pub­ tional commission had been met. It had licly to it, he will say, "If you as the nothing to do with some minor points tribunal-the old, revamped or new tri­ or even the major thrust of the issue. bunal-will not correct what I believe The Minister of Education wants to to be an outrageous price for the labour black out what the Teachers Tribunal of school principals in this State, do not and the principals' association decided. take any notice of Liberal Party rhetoric In referring to the submission from the about abiding by the umpire's decision principals' association to the Teachers -that is all nonsense-and if you will Tribunal I was not making a value not abide by my new dictates, I will go judgement about it, other than to deal to the Parliament where, in this gerry- with the first paragraph. It was irrel~. 5730 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL vant for the purpose of debating the of that regulation, granted by the tri­ principle. The principle is that the bunal. It is a matter that should not be Minister of Education, the Premier and raised in this House. This latter event their predecessors have time and again ought not to be adverted to in this preached that employees should consult House as it is the subject of proceedings the Australian Conciliation and Arbitra­ in the court. The latter event is clearly tion Commission and abide by the um­ covered by the sub judice rule. I have pire's decision. been at great pains to ensure that no­ That is what the small band of emp­ thing said or done in this House in any loyees of the State did. They were way embarrasses the court in its denied access to direct negotiation with determinations on the later subject and their employer and in accordance with I consider that all persons who speak Government policy they have accepted in this House are equally bound to the advice. The Minister of Education avoid interference with the processes disregards irrelevant material from a of the court, just as the court has con­ submission, despite the fact that I have sciously sought to avoid any possible already read to the House that the interference with the process of this tribunal unanimously agreed that the Parliament. case met the criteria laid down by the The PRESIDENT (the Hon. F. S. national commission and adopted by the Grimwade)-Order! I uphold the point Teachers Tribunal in 1978. Having re­ of order and invite the Leader of the gard to those factors, I oppose the Opposition to continue. Government's proposal. The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU As an employer, the Government has (Doutta Galla Province) -Can you tell always argued that employees should me what the point of order is? take matters to the Conciliation and The PRESIDENT-Order! The Leader Arbitration Commission. The Govern­ of the Opposition must have been con­ ment appoints two out of the three scious of what he said and obviously members of the commission. When the was not listening to the Minister of Edu­ three members do not become a majo­ cation raising the point of order. The rity and one of the two members ap­ matter that is before the court should pointed by the Government changes not be alluded to in this debate and it his mind, the Government suddenly has no relationship to the matter which decides that the commission's conclu­ is the subject of this debate. sions are wrong. We have not had to worry about that in the past, but the The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-I problem is now before Parliament The have made the reference and-- matter has heen raised in Parliament, The PRESIDENT-Order! I have ruled despite the fact that a case is currently that reference as being out of order. before the Supreme Court and, no The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-I was doubt, a decision will be made on about to comment on the relevance of it. Friday. Honourable members are debat­ Nevertheless, may I say to the Minister ing this matter despite my appeal that that he claimed before the suspension the House should adjourn this debate of the sitting that this matter was of and leave deliberations on this matter such urgency that the House had to until next week. Knowing that the proceed with it and honourable members Supreme Court decision is now-- have listened to the theatricals of which The Hon. A. J. HUNT (Minister of the Minister is capable. Education) -On a point of order, the honourable member is seeking to raise a The Hon. A. J. Hunt-You are crying matter that is before the courts. I wish crocodile tears! to make it abundantly clear that the The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-The matter before the courts does not relate Minister of Education said that it was to the validity or otherwise of the re­ urgent that the matter be debated. The gulation now sought to be disallowed. Minister for Local Government has not That relates entirely to a subsequent had the opportunity of introducing his event, namely, a stay in the operation legislation and his colleague in another 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5731 place has not had the opportunity and stant taunting the Minister has advised will not have had the opportunity to employees of the State to take their introduce the same measure. I under­ claims to the Conciliation and Arbitra .. stand the procedures in another place tion Commission and. abide by the will debar him from doing so tomorrow. umpire's decision. He then says that I In fact, the Legislative Assembly will am shedding crocodile tears because debate this measure next Tuesday. Opposition members complained that When I put the matter to the Minister we needed more time to consider and asked him to give my party the the matter. It is he who is full of opportunity of discussing it in the light hypocrisy. of the material made available-half a The Minister has told this House to library has been delivered this evening abide by the commission's rulings, but -I was accused of crying crocodile now he tells Parliament that despite all tears. of that nonsense we shall disregard The Hon. A. J. Hunt-That is right. that. There will be shockwaves when one considers the submission of the The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-The organization. One or two questions will Minister wants it all his way. He con­ be ignored, such as the fact that the siders that he is the only person with tribunal accepted the work value any standards of ethics or morality. He question and has been satisfied with loved certain principles last month and the wage fixing question. It was un­ hates them this month. He wants to animously agreed across. the board by bash teachers and kick unions. He three members. The real question is will deal with the tribunal now and if that a 15 per cent increase is outrage­ the tribunal does not make the right ous. That is what the Minister is saying decision the Minister uses the Upper and yet there are examples of increases House to change that decision. That is in other awards in other areas of rough how clever the Minister is. He says that comparability. In fact, there have been I am crying crocodile tears when the increases of similar or even larger Opposition wants time to consider the amounts. matter. The Minister should not give the Not one member of the Government House nonsense with respect to a de­ party gave an "ooh" or an "aah" when cision that will no doubt be made by I suggested that Government employed someone else. I shall conclude on this lawyers in South Australia had re­ matter. ceived an increase of 25 per cent, but, when it comes to this small but import­ The Hon. H. R. Ward-Hear hear~ ant section of our work force, the Gov­ The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU-I am ernment believes they should be treated glad Mr Ward is listening; I thought he differently. They are to be stood up by was asleep. I will conclude by saying Parliament and the Minister is saying, that the Minister has been personally "Because I have been frustrated and involved in detailed decision making outsmarted by the first tribunal and by and, in my view, interfering with my replacement tribunal and then by the welfare of education in Victoria. the Supreme Court, I intend to use the Victorian Parliament to enforce my It is extraordinary that a matter as will on the teaching profession in Vic­ urgent as the Minister now pretends toria" . this issue is was left for days before the Minister made a statement and took I do not know whether the Minister action on it. It is now so urgent that is trying to even up the score or to both Houses of Parliament, which are make sure that the Honourable Lind­ supposed to discuss this matter and say Thompson stands forever con­ allow Ministers to arrange it simultane­ demned in the Cabinet, or whether it ously with their colleagues, are now out is yet another excursion into union of step. The other House cannot make bashing. I do not know what motivates a decision on the matter until next the Minister. All I know is that the week. However, in response to my con- Minister of Education was one of the 5732 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL few Ministers in the Government who of industrial action on its own behalf. had a reputation within the trade union In uncharacteristic fashion the Minister movement of being a man of his word even quoted from the Age. That is a and a man of some pr,inciple in indus­ first for the Minister of Education. I trial matters. He is fast losing that cannot remember his ever doing that reputation and, if this proposal pro­ before. Clearly, there was an author or ceeds, there will not be a union official authors involved in toughening up the in Christendom, let alone in Melbourne, speech, but the Minister has the final who will be prepared to deal with him. responsibility and he should have The Hon. B. P. DUNN (North Western thrown that speech out the window and Province) -The Minister of Education stood up for his position as Minister of has now lost the only friends he had Education. He should have stood behind left in the education system of Vic­ the people who have backed him time toria. The principals, particularly the and again in the changes he has sought. pri'ncipals of secondary schools, in Vic­ The Minister assumes, of course, that toria have taken the brunt of fanciful by referring this matter back to the Ministerial directives coming from the tribunal there will be a reduction in the Minister and from his colleague, the present award. He now lifts his arms in Minister of Educational Services. They some sort of horror, but the fact is that have been at the centre of change, the if he did not believe that would be the flashpoint of the Government's new case there is no reason why he would direction policy. They have been the be taking his present action. people in the middle. Despite their hav­ The Hon. B. A. Chamberlain-You ing been in that difficult position, the have missed the whole point of the Minister has now ·cast them aside. He debate. has deserted the people he relied on to deliver the policies and the changes he The Hon. B. P. DUNN-I have not. was introducing. He has deserted them Mr Chamberlain should talk to the in the face of recognition of their im­ principals in the province he represents portant role in the education system. and they will give him the point of the debate. The point of the debate is that I have spoken to many principals the Government has failed to recognize throughout the State and there is no the importance of the school principal doubt that they are dejected. There is in the delivery of education. In order to no doubt that they have lost confidence make any sort of judgment On this in the Minister and lost confidence in debate we have to make a judgment on his ability to deal with education mat­ the value and work of school principals. ters. It will be a long and difficult road Mr Landeryou and the Minister, particu­ for the Minister and his colleagues in larly the Minister, have said we do not another place when they wish to make the changes they want to introduce into have to do that. I do not agree. We have the system. He expects the school prin­ to do that because, if we are happy with cipals to bear the weight of the new the role of principals and recognize principles and directives but he has their importance, surely we should thrown them to the wolves, and in my accept the rise that has been awarded view his actions denigrate their work to them. .in the eyes of the community. The Hon. B. A. Chamberlain-You are I am trying to work out just what missing the point again. has gone on behind the closed doors The Hon. B. P. DUNN-Mr Chamber­ of the Liberal Party, because the Min­ lain will get his chance to speak. I do ister read his speech word for word. It not believe I am missing the point. appeared as though he may not even Members of the National Party believe have been the author of the speech. principals are a key part of the educa­ One could be forgiven for thinking it tion system and we acknowledge their was written by some faceless, back­ work. That work has been recognized room group within the Liberal Party by the tribunal and the Government that has got it in for the teaching pro­ should be prepared to stand behind fession and wants to take some sort that. In his speech the Minister made 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5733 scant reference to school principals and principal, because there is a feel about he has acknowledged that. In his speech a school that is being well led. It has the Minister said: direction and the person in the top The purpose is the protection of vital com­ position can be respected by the com­ munity interests. It is certainly not directed munity, by his staff, the parents and the against high school principals as such, for the students, and he can carry through the Government appreciates their worth and their work, and has great sympathy for their posi­ education policies of the State. The tion. school principal has a tremendous role The Minister would have a lot of to fulfil, and it is an increasing role. difficulty in convincing high school The Government has taken action to principals that he recognizes their work further increase the responsibilities of and their worth and has great sympathy principals and I intend to deal with for their position. The fact of the matter some of those during the course of my is that in many cases deputy principals' remarks. receive almost the same amount as The school principal has to be an principals, and many younger principals educator. The submission made by the who have great potential are leaving principals states that he has to be a top their jobs to take up positions as deputy educator. He has to be an administrator principals or other positions with less capable of dealing with a large school responsibility because the wage differ­ population of 700 or 800 students and ence is just not worth the extra work perhaps 50, 60 or 80 members of staff. load and the extra responsibility. The He has to deal with the administration rise granted by the tribunal would involved in the running of a school of recognize the value of the high school that size. The principal must be skilled principal in the system. in industrial relations to deal with the If one wants to have the best people problems that crop up from time to in the top jobs, one has to be prepared time between teachers and teacher to pay them, and if one pays them well unions. He must also deal with various one can expect performance from them. other matters that occur. The principal That is what has to be expected from mus~ .be s~iIled in dealing with those the people in the top jobs in this State, sensitive Issues of parent-student and I include in that category the relationships and relationships between principals of secondary schools. If the t~e school and the community. The prin­ Government wants the top people as cipal must be respected in the commun­ school principals-and the school ity and looked up to as one of the principal is the key posi{ion, there is no !eaders of the community. These days doubt about that-it has to pay them In most country towns it is demanded well and it has to demand performance of a school principal that he be an act­ from them and it also has to be pre­ ive member in the community and pared to promote them on the basis of belong to groups such as Rotary a/nd performance. take an interest in other organizations i~ the. community generally. The prin­ It is against all principles of the em­ cipal IS expected to undertake a wide ployment of top people to give them a range of activities not only in the pittance of a 3 per cent increase in a school but also outside the school in work value case in 1978 and then, in a his own time at nights and at week­ lousy action, to try to take away the ends. Most of the principals I have been rise granted in the tribunal's recognition associated with carry out those duties. of their worth. The Government has However, under the present award they said, "You are not worth the 15 per are paid a mere pittance. cent. We will refer it back to the The difference in pay between a dep­ tribunal. It is a disgrace. We will not uty principal in a school of more than have a bar of it". 400 students and the pay for a principal I visit many schools, as no doubt do of a school with 400 students 'Or fewer other honourable members, and when is about $65 a year. one walks into a school one can gain an The Hon. B. A. Chamberlain-It is 32 immediate indication of the work of the cents a day. 5734 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL

The Hon. B. P. DUNN-That is the principal and the principal. The prin­ recognition bestowed upon school prin­ cipal of a school with a confirmed en­ cipals by the Government which rol~ent of fewer than 400 pupils mumbles and grizzles when the value receIved $25217. The deputy principal of school principals is recognized. of a school with a confirmed enrolment The Hon. K. I. Wright-It is possible of between 300 and 399 pupils receives to have them in the same school. $22 932. In the case of a school with a confirmed enrolment of fewer than 400 The Hon. B. P. DUNN-That is cor­ :;tudents, the deputy principal received, rect. School principals are dissatisfied I~ round ~gures, $23 000 and the prin­ and disillusioned and have lost total Cipal receIved $25 000. There is a dif­ confidence in the Minister of Educa­ ference, in round figures, of $2000 to tion. The Minister demonstrated an the advantage of the principal who amazing change of mind during the t~~e.s all the work load and respon­ Christmas break after introducing the SibilIty. J:l0wever, the school principals White Paper in the last week of the are refusmg to take that responsibility. last session. In that White Paper, the Minister states: I know of two young principals in The principal is the educational leader and m~ e.lectorat~. who have taken deputy administrator at the most critical point in the prmclpal pOSItIOns in other schools be­ system and is in a strong position to influence cause it has not been worth their while the course of education and its effectiveness. Serious consideration must therefore be given to stay in the position of principal. to the criteria for selecting principals. Proven One wonders why school principals put educational leadership must take precedence forward a work value case to the tri­ over seniority and there is strong justification bunal when the Minister has deserted for requiring formal qualifications in educa­ them and denied the principles of his tion administration as a prerequisite for all appointments as principals. White Paper and thrown the tribunal's decision back for reconsideration. If Those are the Minister's own words­ "The principal is the educational leader ope examin.es the salaries of that posi­ tl.on, ~me dIscovers that a deputy prin­ and administrator at the most critical Cipal m a school of more than 400 stu­ point in the system". The Minister is dents receives as much as a principal arguing about paying the principals and of a smaller high school. That does not recognizing their value and increased augur well for the future of schools and responsibilities. the education system generally. If the Minister's action tonight rep­ resents the type of notice the Govern­ The Minister has bestowed a num­ ment is going to take of a White Paper, ber of other responsibilities upon prin­ it represents a worthless document cipals. Under the stand-down regula­ about which the community can take tions that were introduced late last little real notice. One would have year, the principal has a very extensive thought that an important principle em­ role of setting the school programme bodied in a White Paper that has been and ensuring that the teachers of his discussed and worked upon over a long school adhere to that programme. The period of time would have at least stood principal is responsible for recom­ the test of time longer than a couple mending to the Director-General of of months. However, the White Paper Education action to be taken in relation is now worthless in the light of the to anyone teacher at his school under Minister's action in relation to the the stand-down regulations. During the salaries paid to principals. course of the debate on the stand-down regulations, the Minister admitted the Under the award, prior to the one enormous. s~rain that was applied to granted by the Teachers Tribunal, a school pnnclpals. The Minister said: principal of a school with a confirmed enrolment of 400 or more pupils Many of the strikes and threats of strikes received $27 887. The deputy principal particularl~ in high sc~o~ls, h~ve been deSigned of a school of that size received to. pressurize the prl~clpal mto agreeing to $24945. umo~ deman?s regardmg school organization, There is an approximate dif­ c~rnculum, tIme-table, hours of duty or class ference of $3000 between the deputy sIzes. 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5735

The Minister went on to talk about the We have undertaken the brunt of the change in educational philosophy and administration, pressure on school principals and the and in your own words have been at the most fact that a number of principals have critical point of educational development. had nervous breakdowns and have had I believe for the first time work value recog­ to seek leave from their duties because nized this fact and rewarded the principal. For of the excessive workload they have years the principal has used his own vehicle. had to carry. Those regulations recog­ Then the writer goes on to outline the nize new responsibilities and increased responsibilities he has and finally he importance of the school principals in wrote: the education system. Morale will drop even further unless the principal is supported in this issue by his Health and human relations courses minister. We have heard so often of the represent another area of responsibility "umpires decision" etc, but in this case it is placed on school principals, who have more than thiS, it is the morale of a group of to oversee the delivery of those courses. principals who have taken a battering in recent years unequalled in our department. They have However, the Minister has not recog­ been at the point of conflict of every industrial nized the need to pay the principals action, and have faced almost insurmountable more. The principals have to carry out difficulties, and yet have continued to give these extra duties but receive no recog­ dedicated and professional service to this state nition for it. and to ministers of this state. That was written by a principal for I have no personal doubt from the whom I have the highest regard and experience I have had in visiting the who is regarded by his profession as schools and seeing the increased work­ being outstanding. He is also an in­ load of principal that a case exists for dividual who knows what he is talking special consideration for them. about and means what he says. The Hon. A. J. Hunt-Hear, hear! The Victorian High School Princi­ pals Association, which represents the The Hon. B. P. DUNN-The Minister principals and lodged the case on their agrees. I find his argument very hard behalf, has also contacted members of to follow. Parliament on a number of occasions. The Hon. N. F. Stacey-I think you Probably most honourable members should read it again. have received a communication from The Hon. B. P. DUNN-I have read that association. The association states: the Minister's speech a number of times The Minister's actions, after a lengthy and the only conclusion I can come to Tribunal hearing, can lead to a denial of natural justice. His public statement that "the Govern­ is that someone other than the Min­ ment appreciates their worth and has great ister wrote that speech. sympathy for their position" is not demon­ It is essential to have good school strated by his actions. prinCipals, but many are stepping out I agree wholeheartedly with that view. of that role. I have a copy of a letter The association has pointed out that by a principal of a school within the the Government has the right to advise electorate I represent, and he says this: the Government-appointed tribunal This year I have seen two of my colleagues members. The Government has had that undertake extended sick leave attributed to right which has existed since the in­ pressures within the job, and two of our most ception of the Teachers Tribunal. The energetic young principals take deputy prin­ cipal positions rather than face a 70-hour association also asked the Minister of week and the associated pressures. This Education to extend the term of ap­ approximates 30 per cent of the principals pointment of Mr Baker if it was con­ in our group. sidered that the tribunal needed addi­ This is a group of school principals tional time to arrive at a decision. The in a particular area of Victoria. association made that offer, that if Mr It goes on to state: Baker wanted more time-- I have seen industrial disputation, parent The Hon. A. J. Hunt-Does Mr Dunn pressure, and workload increase in the time know that I agreed to it? I have been a principal, and I believe that the work value decision handed down by the tri­ The Hon. B. P. DUNN-The Minister bunal recognized this fact. agreed to extend? 5736 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL

The Hon. A. J. Hunt-Yes. I know that Mr Chamberlain will speak about flow-on and industrial re­ The Hon. B. P. DUNN-That is good lations and I intend to refer to these news, at least the Minister agreed to aspects also. As I stated before, the something. The Victorian High School Teachers Tribunal was set up to oper­ Principals Association believes: ate as an independent tribunal and to That Parliamentary disallowance of an award carry out its role in that regard. As I made by a properly constituted wage-fixing also stated previously no action has authority is an unprecedented step which will been taken by the Government to move have both short- and long-term implications. Such a disallowance will further encourage to disallow any of its past decisions. dissident groups to distrust or ignore Tribunals I suggest that the Minister of Educa­ with very serious consequences to the economy tion is contravening a very important generally. and basic recognition of wage-fixing I intend to deal with the position of tribunals. the tribunal in a few moments, but at Honourable members learn that he this stage I am particularly referring is prepared to accept a decision as long to the value of principals and that as it agrees with his thinking, but if value was recognized by the dissenting he does not like the decision, he will member of the Teachers Tribunal which quite happily interfere in the operations heard the case. He stated in his state­ of this independent tribunal. Perhaps ment of dissent: the Government may be intending to From the evidence submitted, I concluded interfere in the operations of other in­ that the Victorian High School Principals' dependent tribunals which have been Association had demonstrated successfully that set up to look after various needs and there had been significant changes in the work val ue of principals since the previous Tribunal responsibilities! This move could have Award. Those changes were, in my view, serious consequences and create a pre­ sufficient to justify an increase in salary. cedent whereby people will no longer The Government has always hidden view tribunals of this nature as being behind the tribunal, not only in this independent. House but also in public. The Govern­ Teacher unions are already talking ment has stated that the tribunal is about the changes proposed in indus­ independent and that it will not in­ trial relations by the Minister of Edu­ struct its representatives. The Govern­ cation. They are talking about the fact ment has claimed that it will protect that they have seen here a demonstra­ its independence on these issues. That tion of what negotiations would be like has been stated by the Government on awards and conditions for teachers time and again ever since the tribunal if the teachers had to negotiate directly was first established in 1946. Ever with the Minister of Education and his since that time subsequent Ministers department. of Education have stated that they would stand by the tribunal, by its When there is a tribunal of this independence of decision and would nature, the Government has to stand not even instruct the Government re­ by its decisions. It is no good com­ plaining about the tribunal. It could presentative on the tribunal. have been changed, completely restruc­ Now there has been a major depart­ tured or abolished altogether. The Min­ ure after all this time. The fact is that ister of Education has had plenty of all members of the tribunal agree' that time in which fo do that. The Govern­ there was merit in the work value case. ment has had ample opportunity to All the members agreed that there carry out that procedure but what it should be an increase in salary and has done has been to allow the tribunal that was recommended but the only to continue to operate. There has been: disagreement was over the extent of talk about changes in the operations the salary increase. That is all the dis­ of the tribunal but the Minister of agreement which exists between mem­ Education has not made any of those bers of the tribunal. changes and until that is done, the II March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5737

Minister of Education and the Govern­ the association acted in accordance ment have to bear the decisions that with the correct procedure in present­ come from tha t tribunal. ing such a claim. The case clearly out­ If the Minister of Education was not lined the increased responsibility of happy with the tribunal, he should have high school principals and, therefore, altered it. I know that the Minister of I, and the National Party, believe on Education is moving in that direction, this occasion we need to stand by the but there has been time in the past. decision of the tribunal. Former Ministers of Education have had The Minister made great play about plenty of time to make changes or to the flow-on to the community. In glow­ restructure the tribunal. It is obvious ing terms he was striking fear in the that the Government has been continu­ hearts of the people not only in Vic­ ing to shelter behind its decisions. toria but also in Australia. He put esti­ It is also no good complaining about mates together in the first day or so the decision of the Government repre­ after the decision and talked of thous­ sentative, Mr Baker. He could have ands of millions of dollars. On page been instructed by the Minister of 4 of the notes he stated: Education or by the Government, but Estimates of the possible effect upon the that was not done either. Again the budgets of the public sector in Australia have independence of the tribunal is being ranged upwards from $1000 miJIion per annum. protected to the degree that the Gov­ And he talked about how this would ernment will not even instruct or direct flow through the Victorian system. On its own representative on the tribunal. page 3 of the notes, he said: The cost of flow-on throughout the Victorian The Hon. A. J. Hunt-Would that Government Teaching Service alone would be be right with a tripartite tribunal to $129 million in a single year. have two out of its three members That is a very emotional argument, given instructions? but my understanding is that those The Hon. B. P. DUNN-What is the teachers and groups will have to face good of having it make a decision if a tribunal, lodge a work value case the Minister of Education will not before that tribunal, and a decision accept it? The position is that we have made on their behalf before they re­ a tribunal which has made a decision ceive any flow-on of any kind in a and the Government does not like' that work value case. decision and it has now stepped in and It is time that high school principals, asked the tribunal to reconsider that and principals of schools, were recog­ decision. In the past the Government nized as a special and vitally import­ has declined to change or restructure ant part of the education system, and the tribunal and it has declined to in­ that they are paid on a work value struct its representative on the tri­ basis in recognition of that fact. I do bunal. The result is that on this occa­ not believe that the arguments of a sion there is a decision with which the flow-on throughout Victoria and Aus­ Government does not agree. tralia hold in any way. I do not see it. I do not see how the Parliament is Any teaching profession that seeks a in a better position to consider this rise-and I know rises have been case than was the tribunal. Honourable sought and adjusted to 15 per cent-- members can only voice their views on The Hon. A. J. Hunt-They have the situation based on personal exper­ been engendered by this. ience and the comments and opinions which have been provided by the Min­ The Hon. B. P. DUNN-They have ister of Education and by the Victorian to face the tribunal, and if the Minis­ High School Principals Association. ter is frightened of them facing the The case that was put forward by tribunal, he should scrap it or re­ the Victorian High School Principals structure the tribunal, or deal with it Association provided sufficient infor­ in any way he thinks fit. This concerns mation for the tribunal to make a de­ a tribunal that the Minister is trying cision on it. Mr Landeryou stated that to turn around. Session 1981-197 5738 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL

In conclusion, I reiterate that the tion and Arbitration Act, he can apply National Party believes special empha­ for a reference, which means that a sis needs to be placed on the work matter before decision can be referred of the principals. A recognition was to a higher bench for review and de­ given by the Minister in the White cision, or, if a decision has been made Paper. It is a recognition that flows under section 35, he can appeal against through many of the responsibilities that decision. that he talks about giving to schools. It all hinges on the principals, and the I have a number of Federal decisions National Party stands behind the prin­ that I could display for the benefit of cipals of schools. We see them as a the House. They run to 40 and 50 most important part in the delivery of pages, and give detailed reasons for the education, and if the right people are to decisions that the judge or commission­ be attracted to the system, and if the er has made. Contrast that with the State is going to keep them and demand current decision for the Teachers Tri­ performance from them, it has to be bunal. There is a broad statement from prepared to pay them sufficiently more the chairman, but there are no reasons than the senior teachers and others at all from the other two members of the who may be working under them to tribunal for what they did. That is one make their extra worries and responsi­ example. bilities worth while. The same applies to State wages board The National Party believes the Gov­ decisions. In any decision made by a ernment has acted wrongly in this case. Sta.,te industrial board, where the de­ The Government has intervened wrong­ cision is carried by the casting vote ly in a decision of an independent of the chairman, the chairman is re­ tribunal, and it has lost the confidence quired under the Act to give reasons in of secondary school principals through­ writing for that decision. It goes with­ out Victoria who, at last, had received out saying that there is a right of some recognition for the tremendous appeal under the Labour and Industry increase in work load and responsibili­ Act. The appeal can be lodged on the ties that have been put on them in reasons given for the decision itself. recent years. Mr Landeryou must have some superi­ The Hon. CLIVE BUBB (Ballarat or knowledge. He was quoting the Province) -Firstly, I do not take issue decision of the tribunal as unanimous, with what Mr Dunn has said about prin­ but how can it be unanimous when cipals. I agree with most of what the chairman has issued a statement he said about principals and the disociating himself from the actions onerous tasks that they perform. of the tribunal? However, I want to speak about the role and function, and the The Hon. B. P. Dunn-Mr Landeryou mechanics, of industrial tribunals. I was referring to the recognition-- shall start with the Conciliation and The Hon. CLIVE BUBB-On page Arbitration Commission and make two 3 of the chairman's notes it refers to points. Firstly, in response to the com­ the singular "I", not "we", an Mr Lan­ ments made about lac~ of direction and deryou was using the plural "we" all lack of instruction of the Government the time. Page 3 reads: appointee to the tribunal, in the Com­ monwealth jurisdiction an employer "These changes were, in my view, sufficient has the right to appear and be heard. to justify an increase in salary." There is no compulsion on the employer There is no evidence in that docu­ to make a submission. Whether an em­ ment of a unanimous decision. It is a ployer appears or not, he is in no way fairly skimpy document. There ar.e two debarred from appealing against a de­ and a half pages of the chairman's cision. He has two avenues available to views, and they are broad in content. him under Federal legislation. Under I contrast that with another document sections 34 and 34 (a) of the Concilia- that covers 200 pages-Determination 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5739

No. 308 of the Police Service Board Section 58 (3) has already been of Victoria, Salaries and Allowance quoted to the House. This section is Claim 1978-79, reasons for decisions. in effect a reference or appeal provision One might ask whether one has any for this piece of legislation. That sec­ grounds for appeal, other than quantum, tion states: when confronted with the chairman's If within thirty days after any regulation has statement. been laid before both Houses of Parliament each House of Parliament passes a resolution There has been speculation in the disallowing that regulation the regulation so press on the reasons for the decision disallowed shall thereupon cease to have effect. by the tribunal. No one really knows This legislation has no other mechanism because the two members of the tri­ for arriving at an appeal or reference. bunal who made up that decision have Section 58 (3) is, in effect, a reference not made public the reasons for their mechanism to this Parliament which is decision. What went through their the ultimate debating forum to allow the minds, I do not know. matter to be discussed. It is a reference to this tribunal to determine whether the The Hon. A. J. Hunt-One thing decision of the Teachers Tribunal you can be sure of, they did not have should be upheld. We, in our wisdom, the same reasons. then have to decide whether that de­ The Hon. CLIVE BUBB-If one can CISIOn is able to be accepted in the believe some press speculation, the public good. I use the words "the teacher representative on that tribunal public good" in inverted commas. modified his view on quantum when Mr Dunn, Mr Landeryou and the he heard the views of other members, Minister of Education mentioned the so they did not have the same view, flow-on ramifications. I shall refer to as the Minister said. a couple of matters which led to the The point I have made, simply is present system of indexation. If we go that in the Commonwealth and back to late 1973 a backroom deal State systems, appeals and refer­ was made between the Road Trans­ ences are common to both systems port Federation and the Transport -there is a system of appeal Workers Union. The situation was that a $25 a week increase was awarded and a system' of reference. to workers in that industry. Arising out They are both based on the fact that of that came a flow-on application made reasons for a decision are given and by other transport workers for the same an appeal or reference is required or increase. asked for on the basis of those reasons When the matter came before the given. In their wisdom, the framers of Federal tribunal the judge awarded an those pieces of legislation set that out increase of $15 a week to other trans­ as the means for reviewing a decision port workers in April 1974. Obviously, of those tribunals. as has happened in this situation, the The Teaching Service Act 1958-at expectation of those transport workers least the copy I have-contains pro­ was raised and they expected a $25 visions which have existed since the increase. They would not accept a $15 start of the Act. I refer to section 58 increase. We were then faced with a situation where demands were made (2) and (3). Broadly, those two sub­ and backed with industrial action and sections require that a decision made the transport industry was in a turmQil. by the tribunal shall be published in the The matter came before the commission Government Gazette and, in effect, and a further $9 was awarded in Sep­ become a regulation and a copy of such tember 1974. Obviously that settled regulation shall be laid before both the issue, because expectations were Houses of Parliament, if Parliament is met. then sitting, and that a copy of all It is fair to report that the $25 ulti­ such regulations shall be sent to all mately flowed on to almost every area members of Parliament. of Australian industry and commerce. 5740 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL

That was largely responsible for the chers Tribunal adopted the guidelines wages explosion of 1974. Anyone who of the Conciliation and Arbitration Com­ talks about the containment of flow on mission as laid down in the 1978 de­ ramifications in this sort of decision is cision. fooling himself. Another classic situation On 9 January 1981 at the last hearing is occurring now in New South Wales. under the old guidelines, the commis­ The teaching union and the Government sion said in summary in its decision of in that State had almost reached the that date, in sub-clause 3 that the point of signing an agreement on a present principles will continue to work value case for an increase of 5·5 apply to issues other than national per cent. When this decision came out wage cases. It is obvious that the the union immediately withdrew from guidelines still cover work value. Any discussions. Statements have been made suggestion that this tribunal was freed by other parties relating to attitudes from its policy decision to abide by if this increase is allowed. The Vic­ those guidelines should be strongly re­ torian Secondary Teachers Association, futed. No policy statement has been is­ the Victorian Teachers Union and the sued by the tribunal to show that it has Victorian Association of Teachers have rescinded its previous policy decision. all indicated they will claim flow-on. I believe this has the potential for I shall refer to a couple of comments creating an economic impact like that Mr Landeryou made. He made the point which occurred in 1974. that the Minister was not in a position Arising out of the 1974 flow-on situ­ to assess, that this House was not ation was the indexation decision of in a position to assess and we should 1975. The guidelines were subsequently not pass judgment. It was an interest­ amended in September 1978 and are ing statement. In fact, it backs up part still in force. As the Minister has of my argument. There is not enough already said, the decision of the tribunal information available to evaluate this in this matter is outside the guidelines decision. which the tribunal itself laid down. He also made the statement that the It is interesting to note a letter from tribunal went along with the "rules of the Teachers Tribunal dated 7 Decem­ the game". The rules being that the ber 1978 which was after the indexa­ Government did not instruct the Gov­ tion decision I referred to on 14 Sep­ ernment appointee. It is interesting tember. A letter was sent to the that he believes the members of the Director-General of Education which tribunal had the required experience referred to the policy of the tribunal when only one of them was, in fact, in relation to the 1978 guidelines. In a former school principal. Mr Kennedy the fourth paragraph, under the head­ is the author of the document from ing "Policy" it states: which Mr Landeryou was quoting. It Adjustments granted by the Australian Con­ is debatable whether the other tri­ ciliation and Arbitration Commission, based on bunal members do have the experience. the quarterly Consumer Price Index, will con­ The only inference one can draw from tinue to be applied from the date granted by the Commission, or as soon thereafter as the document presented, which was a practicable. personal view, is that Mr Kennedy in his That subsequently continued on a six­ own knowledge may have had the re­ monthly basis, the last occurring on 9 quired background information to be January 1981. Clause 2, under the head­ able to give an informed judgment. The ing of "Work Value" the letter states: other tribunal members should not have passed judgment on that issue Demonstrable changes in work value, being changes in the nature of the work, skill and without giving their reasons. They had responsibility required or the conditions under the ability to better inform them­ which the work is performed. selves; the chairman of the tribunal Paragraph 2 (a) is in fact a re-stating acknowledges this. He made a state­ of principle 7 (a) to which the Minister ment, the other members gave no referred earlier. There is no question, if reasons. They certainly could have one looks at that letter, that the Tea- carried out a series of inspections had The Hon. Clive Bubb 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5741 they wished, and they should have. The recommendations in a number of cate­ avenue was there for them and they gories and category (f) prescribes should have taken it. scales of salaries and allowances. With­ There is a definite mechanism within in that Act and those powers, this pro­ the legislation which provides for perly constituted tribunal has made a Parliament to be an ultimate board of decision and a regulation has followed. review. Parliament is now going In fact, the tribunal has done it twice, through this procedure. The appropriate but that is of no consequence-it has appeals procedure under the legislation been done properly. Within section 58 is being employed to review this there is also a capacity that the Min­ decision. Mr Butler, by way of inter­ ister of Education now wishes to use jection referred to accepting the but it ought to be viewed in context. umpire's decision. The Government has Section 58 (2) states: always been noted by the trade union All regulations made under this Part shall be movement for not being reticent in published in the Government Gazette and shall appealing against decisions in various be laid before both Houses of Parliament if Parliament is then sitting and if Parliament is tribunals and in fact it has been criti­ not then sitting then within fourteen days after cized trenchantly by sections of the the next meeting Gf Parliament and a copy of trade union movement for appealing all such regulations shall be posted to each against decisions. Member of Parliament. If legislative provision exists for an This is normal procedure and all hon­ appeal or a review under any legislation, ourable members understand that. Fol­ there is no reason why the Government, lowing this is the sub-section to which or anyone else, should be debarred from I referred earlier, the disallowance using those appeal provisions. It is a clause, which states: mechanical procedure. (3) If within thirty days after any regulation If after appeal the matter is deter­ has been laid before both Houses of Parliament mined again, and the tribunal awarded a 15 per cent increase, 1 would not That happened yesterday- oppose the 15 per cent increase if that ... each House of Parliament passes a resolu­ were the decision. There is a review tion disallowing that regulation the regulation procedure and if after that review the so disallowed shall thereupon cease to have same increase is awarded, that is it. effect. That is accepting the umpire's decision. That is the clause the Minister now I support the motion moved by the wishes to use. It has never been used Minister of Education. before but it is quite clear within the The Hon. E. H. WALKER (Mel­ Westminster system that the authority bourne Province) -I have listened care­ of Parliament is correctly used in this fully to all contributions and 1 do not way. However, the Minister is using wish to canvass again the points that it in a way that was never intended. have been made. My Leader has made He is finding the last way out of a the points that ought to be made very position with which he is unhappy. well and substantially. I accept as gen­ I accept the genuineness of the Min­ uine the concerns that have been ex­ Ister's comments that he is unhappy pressed by the Minister of Education. and that he does not consider the I am concerned that he has had to decision was a good one. I also accept use a long thirteen-page closely­ categorically the points made by Mr worded document, which is unlike the Landeryou that it is not sufficient for honourable gentleman. It appears the the Minister to say that he is unhappy more marginal the case he is arguing, the longer the paper he prepares and and therefore he shall use every power the more technical the points he makes. available to him to change a decision he considers is incorrect. A properly constituted tribunal made a determination. Section 58 of The House needs to examine care­ the Teaching Service Act 1958 states fully what is happening and I propose clearly that the tribunal may make a conciliatory gesture or offer that I 5742 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL consider will allow the House to do It is important that a precedent is the job it should. The law exists, the not set. The clause has never been Act is as it is and the disallowance used before. If a precedent is set that sub-section exists. But it is not proper decisions made by properly constituted one day after tabling a regulation to tribunals can be disallowed at the wave then use that provision almost in a of a wand one day after they have guillotine fashion. I move: been tabled, and the regulations result­ ing from a determination of that tri­ Omit all words after "That" with the view of inserting in place thereof "the Teaching Service bunal disallowed in such a fashion, -Secondary Schools Division (Classification, the whole intent of tribunals is under­ Salaries, and Allowances) Regulation, Amend­ cut. It is not correct. It is wrong to ment No. 538, be referred to an all-party Select do it that way. I support the notion Committee for examination and report on the adequacy of the procedures followed by the that the Parliament, of course, has Tribunal in arriving at its determination prior ultimate responsibility-hence the dis­ to the House being called upon to consider the allowance clause-but I do not support disallowance of such regulation; the Committee its use in a fast and loose fashion. It to report its findings not later than 7 April 1981." was never intended to be used that way. It is clear cut. The Government I shall make the timing point first. The should have accepted the de'cision of disallowance clause is a 30-day clause. the tribunal, but it was not willing to All I am suggesting-and this is water­ do so. I am not willing to see this Par­ tight-is that within the 30 days the liament misused. House do what it says it should have been doing for years, that it put some I make a genuine offer from my of its members to work to review a party and I hope the National Party difficult issue. The case Mr Landeryou will support it, that within the 30 days' put is watertight, but I am also aware allowance for the disallowance a that it does not suit the Government selected group of members of the to view it in those terms now. House should inquire into the proce­ I also have said that I believe the Min­ dures used by the tribunal. ister has some genuine concern and has expressed some unhappiness about The Hon. B. P. Dunn-Has this the the decision. The House should not be full support of the Labor Party? used simply for its numbers capacity The Hon. E. H. WALKER-Abso­ to make use of section 58 of the Act lutely. I am not used to making state­ in a way which was never intended. ments that have not been agreed to. If the House is properly informed and if the committee reports back The Hon. B. P. Dunn-You said that within the 30 days allowed, there is it was your amendment. no reason why the disallowance clause The Hon. E. H. WALKER-It is, but should not go into effect. It is wrong it is a genuine offer from the Labor to use the disallowance clause which Party. The Minister has made it clear is usually meant for tabling for 30 that he worries about the process used. days, to disallow something that the He says that in this instance the tri­ House believes to be wrong. That is bunal has not functioned in the normal a different matter. The House has not way relating to a work value case. decided that. The only way in which it It is true that in this instance the can decide that is to have a report tribunal has said that it has made no from a committee which would be pro­ perly constituted and which would visits to schools; my Leader discussed have to meet and report rapidly. That that. It is also true that no discussion is a correct procedure and it ill behoves occurred with school councils. The tri­ the Minister to make light use of the bunal understands that, and honour­ procedures of this place. It will re­ able members understand that no dis­ flect poorly and for a long time if cussion took place with teachers. In the rights and responsibilities of a a sense, the proper procedures have House such as this are lightly used. been shortened. In every case of this The Minister should know that. kind the tribunal should have made The Hon. E. H. Walker 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5743 those proper consultations. On the The Hon. D. K. HA YWARD (Mon­ other hand, the tribunal believed it ash Province)-The problem with had the knowledge necessary. which the House is faced is a direct result of the system. An indepedent I accept Mr Dunn's comments about semi-judicial type tribunal can work the importance of principals, the work and collective bargaining systems can they do and the new description of work, but a tribunal including people much of what they do, the White Paper elected or appointed to represent special part of it, and I accept, as he does, interests is not effective. That is the that they must play a proper leadership wrong way to go about industrial rela­ role and should be rewarded accord­ tions. Because the system is wrong we ingly. I do not want to canvass that. are faced with this difficult problem. One could be cynical and say that the Government did not make a contribu­ Mr Dunn referred to the value of tion to the tribunal because it thought principals in high schools and commun­ it did not need to do so, and that ities. There is no more dedicated group two out of three was enough. But I of people in the education system than think the Minister genuinely regrets high school principals, as all hon­ not having made a submission to the ourable members know from their tribunal. Nevertheless, a decision was observations of principals at work in properly arrived at by a properly con­ the areas that they represent. They do stituted body. It is apparently un­ sterling work, often against great odds, acceptable to the Government and some and they are key people in building reasonable arguments have been made up and maintaining morale and a posi­ about concern, although the bulk of tive attitude amongst teachers and them have been rhetorical. Few facts students. There is no question in my have been given. The facts in the mind or the mind of anyone in this paperwork have been distributed in House that because the last work value such a way that my colleagues and I increase for high school principals was have not yet had a chance of going in March 1978, they were certainly due through them in enough detail. for consideration for a further increase. In the normal course of events it could The Labor Party is making a genuine have been expected that that increase offer to take part in an all-party pro­ would have been of the order of 5 perly constituted committee of this per cent. I say "normal" in terms of House to review the procedures and a regular review as distinct from an inform the House quickly in return of in-depth inquiry. Perhaps a higher in­ what occurred and what are the facts. crease could be considered appropriate It will then be competent for this but only after a fundamental re-assess­ House to proceed, if it seems fit, to ment of the role of high school prin­ use section 58 (3), to use the disallow­ cipals and a thorough re-assessment of ance clause, although it is a precedent relativities. Clearly this did not occur setting use, in the full knowledge that in this case. it has done its homework. The House is Education is the biggest single item too important an institution to be in the Budget of this State. The total messed about. It ill behoves the Min­ education vote is about $1500 million, ister to use it in that way. The argu­ and of this salaries are about $900 ment and the debate are a lay-down million. There is a limit to the amount misere by this House. The Labor Party of money that can be made available suggests that the House be used as it to education and the amount of money should be used. The homework should that ..::an be made available generally be done and a report should be made for Government spending. Taxation is to the House, which can then decide reaching intolerable levels and the only whether section 58 (3) should be used. way of containing tax increases is by Nobody would be hurt, benefit would containing Government expenditure. occur and a proper precedent would be This 15 per cent increase to high school established. I commend the amendment principals would cost about $1 million to the House. in the full year. If a flow-on of the 5744 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL same 15 per cent increase occurred to The problem with the decision is the other principals it would cost about $3 method rather than the amount. If million or about $4 million overall for this were a one-off decision, fully docu­ all principals. mented, based on a full assessment of Figures have already been quoted work value and with reasons fully this evening for the flow-on of $129 stated, the situation might be different. million to everybody within the teaching This situation where no reasons have staff, of about another $500 million to been stated makes it difficult to avoid all Victorian public servants and from any development of a flow-on. In fact, $1000 to $3000 million to all people in it would appear that it is an open the public sector depending upon the invitation to other groups-particularly extent of the flow-on. teacher groups-to demand a 15 per cent increase and that has already The Hon. R. A. Mackenzie-That is happened. hypothetical. The Hon. D. K. HA YWARD-They In summary, the method adopted and are to the degree that we do not know the nature of the assessment is inade­ the extent of the flow-on. There is quate to support a work value assess­ no question that there would be a ment of 15 per cent and this deter­ flow-on and no question that it would mination should be disallowed. be substantial and significant. Let us The Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE consider the amount of $1 million which (Geelong Province) -The debate to­ has been awarded to principals. That night is really about the inconsistencies amount could well be the salaries of and hypocrisy of the Government and some new young teachers. At a time the way in which the Government uses of high unemployment amongst teachers this House for its own ends. The Gov­ that is a factor that cannot be over­ ernment uses the forms of the House looked. The Government must live for cheap political purposes. The debate within its Budget. The additional ex­ was sprung upon honourable members. penditure to high school principals would inevitably make the problem of The Hon. A. J. Hunt-That is non­ meeting the Budget allocation for this sense. year more difficult. Inevitably it would The Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE-Mem­ place constraints upon employment of bers of the Opposition had no know­ additional personnel in the teaching ledge that the debate would go ahead. profession. One does not know what will happen, Industrial relations are concerned with the way this Government works. Hon­ fairness and reasonableness. I believe­ ourable members had the idea from and honourable members can take this what the Premier said that Victoria as a personal opinion-that the 15 per would have a casino. However, Cabinet cent work value increase cannot be reversed the decision and likewise it considered fair and reasonable taking could have reversed the decision of the into consideration the manner in which Minister of Education. One never knows the decision was made without an in­ what it will do. The Government is depth assessment and the question of inconsistent and this is again illustrated guidelines. with the tribunal decision. It is the in­ A fundamental reassessment of the consistencies about which I am most work value of high school principals concerned and the way in which the is required and the Minister of Educa­ Government has performed on these tion has indicated that this will take matters. place. If after that proper re-assessment, Mr Dunn gave the House a run­ based upon a full understanding and down on the role of the high school knowledge of the situation rather than principal and the way that role has a broad general knowledge which has altered over the past few years under been indicated in this case, a signifi­ Government direction. The Government cant work value increase is prescribed, has increased the workload to an in­ I would give that my full support. credible degree both upon the high 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5745 school principal and the administration In 1975 in the colleges of advanced of high schools in general. Honourable education, the heads of schools were members would be aware that many on a similar salary to high school high school pri!1cipals are suffering principals. An examination of the wages from stress-reJated illnesses. From the structure in 1980 indicates that those comments made by Mr Dunn honour­ heads of schools receive a salary in able members are aware that many the vicinity of $40000. That salary deputy principals will not take on the does not compare with that of a high job of principal. The Government is school principal, even with the 15 per aware of this and continues to lay cent increase. What did the Govern­ extra work on the high schools without ment do about that? Honourable mem­ providing clerical assistance to lighten bers did not hear any cries or call the load of the principal. The workload for the Parliament to discuss the issue. continually increases, yet when the There is no indication that heads of principals come forward and are departments in these colleges have re­ granted a rise in accordance with what ceived workload increases due to Gov­ the tribunal set out for the Govern­ ernment administration. The reverse ment, the Government reneges on the may be true. However, their wages decision of the tribunal and tries to use have increased and no flow-on the forms of this House to have the occurred, even though that is what decision reversed. honourable members opposite said The Minister of Education gave four would be inevitable in this case. reasons in his statement as grounds A report in the Herald on 19 January for the review and for the fresh deter­ states that heads of statutory authori­ mination. The first reason was that the ties and senior public servants in Vic­ increase was excessive in the circum­ toria have been awarded large salary stances of the case. In the judgment rises. The biggest rise went to the of the two members of the tribunal Chief Commissioner of Police, Mr Mick the award was fair payment for work Miner, who now receives $61 000 a undertaken. Those two members of the year, a jump of 28 per cent. tribunal believe that it was not out Where was the Government then? of step with increases given, without Where was the flow-on then? We did question, to other senior officers in the not hear the Government calling the education system in 1980-8l. Parliament together to discuss these The second reason was tha t no proper outrageous rises, and these are only regard was given for over-all salary adjustments from July the previous relativities or to the imoact of the claim year. This illustrates the inconsistency on the Budget or on the economy or to and hypocrisy of the Government that flow-on implications. That statement I talked about at the start of my seems to indicate that the Minister speech. may not be aware of the guidelines set Look at the people who receive these down for the hearing of the tribunal. large salaries. What is interesting is The Government's intention, which the way in which their salaries are was accepted by the tribunal, was awarded. They do not face a tribunal' directly related to the work value of their salaries were awarded by Sir An: high school principals. According to drew Grimwade-no reflection on the his statement, the Minister is asserting Chair is intended. that the principal should be paid the The DEPUTY PRESIDENT (the Hon. amount the Government can afford W. M. CampbeJl)-I do not know the and not for the actual job he does gentleman! according to work values. If one is The Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE-He speaking of relativities, it is interesting is a chemical engineer and he hands to make a few comparisons. I shall out 28 per cent increases in salaries demonstrate what the Government had to the~e top people, including Mr Smith, to say when other people in similar Mr MJller, Mr Croxford, and Mr Reiher positions were given increases. of the railways, but not a word is heard 5746 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL from honourable members opposite. ported by three to nil and the Govern­ Where was the hue and cry then­ ment would have accepted the decision. where was the flow-on then? Therefore any wage indexation guide­ lines used for increases to these top However, when people like the high Government appointees should not be school principals come before the supported. They are not salaried em­ Teachers Tribunal with a work load ployees who have worked their w::ty up that does not have to be demonstrated through the ranks; most of them are to anybody who knows anything about Government appointees, yet despite the education system, it is refused. If this the Government has the hypocrisy the Minister walked around the schools and inconsistency to argue against the and had closer contact with his prin­ increase in salaries for principals. cipals, he would know how their work load has been increased, yet he now . The Opposition knows that the Gov­ seeks to deny them that increase, which ernment can use its weight of numbers. everyone knows is justified. So far it has presented no logical case The third point which the Minister to back up its argument, which has mentioned was that the tribunal should been very weak. Because the Opposi­ have taken into account a more com­ tion believes that Parliament should not prehensive range of material and should be abused in the manner in which it have considered all the facts and cir­ has been abused, it is allowing the cumstances and for that purpose should Government off the hook by giving it have invited the views of the depart­ an opportunity to save face. That is ment and visited such schools as were why Mr Walker moved this proposed considered appropriate. This pOint was amendment, which will allow the House correctly answered in a letter to the to hold an inquiry and to make a de­ Age on 18 February by W. Charlton, cision in that manner. That is a re­ who said: sponsible way of handling it. If that The tribunal subjected principals' representa­ section of the Act is to be used by the tives to vigorous questioning. Substantial Government, as it is allowed to use evidence was presented in the form of princi­ it, this is the manner in which it should pals' statements, recent research evidence, and be used. It should not be used as the supporting material from the Victorian Institute of Secondary Education and an assistant Minister has used it and has tried to regional director. railroad it through the House. Despite what the Minister says, people did not Representatives presenting the case concluded have enough time for preparation for their remarks with an open invitation to tribunal this debate. members to visit schools should further evidence be required. The Hon. A. J. Hunt-Come on! As I mentioned before, anyone who The Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE-That knows the position in secondary schools is quite right. I have not seen any of would know how that work load has the documents which the Minister gave increased. the Deputy Leader of the Opposition The fourth reason given by the Min­ a few hours ago. ister was: The decision to award an increase had no The Hon. A. J. Hunt-A few hours foundation evidence and contravened the wage ago! It was at 11.30 this morning. indexation principles of the tribunal. The Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE-If The guidelines for the hearing were the Minister had had his way, the de­ laid down by the tribunal, agreed to bate would have been brought on and kept by the principal representa­ straight away. tives as in previous wage hearings over the past 34 years. There is nothing in The Hon. A. J. Hunt-What about the transcript of the hearing to show last night in your debate when refer­ that any contravention occurred. If the ence was made to unnamed people and Teachers Tribunal had reached a com­ unspecified allegations, and we were promise figure of 10 per cent or 11 per supposed to answer it without the cent, the award would have been sup- slightest warning? That was a disgrace. The Hon. R. A. Mackenzie 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5747

The Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE-The The real worry that the Government honourable gentleman had the benefit has on the regulation before the House of advisers sitting behind him, which is over the procedures followed by the the Opposition has had on only one tribunal. The tribunal heard the case other occasion. in two days and rejected the wish of the chairman that the tri­ I shall conclude by supporting the bunal should carry out an inspec­ remarks made by my Leader, who out­ tion of schools to see what the lined, step by step, the hypocrisy of responsibilities of principals are. the Government and how it has flouted The tribunal made a decision. It was the umpire's decision. How many times a majority decision but it disregarded have honourable members heard that the knowledge and expertise of the phrase come across from the other side chairman of the tribunal. It proceeded of the House, yet here the Government to make a judgment from two of the is flouting it. The Deputy Leader of members of the tribunal and then did the Opposition, Mr Walker, went not define the judgment by providing through the Act, giving the Govern­ reasons. It is the reasons that are ment the opportunity of saving face and essential for a confinement of any allowing some justice to be done to wage rise to high school principals high school principals in this instance. who have justified to the tribunal a I hope that, if the Government does degree of responsibility which, in the not withdraw its motion altogether, it view of the tribunal, should be re­ will at least accept the amendment put warded. forward by my Deputy Leader. It is important from the community The Hon. N. F. STACEY (Chelsea point of view that this recognition of Province) -I shall be reasonably brief need for additional remuneration to and focus on one or two points that the principals should be confined. We have not been brought out adequately are talking about specific responsibili­ in the debate. Firstly, I do not believe ties in specific high schools of Vic­ the Minister or anybody in this House toria. It is important that the finding is suggesting that the high school prin­ of the tribunals should be confined cipals should not receive a salary in­ and explicit in terms of what responsi­ crease. That is fundamental to the dis­ bility, additional work and additional cussion tonight. Indeed, there is a great authority that finding is based bn. recognition by informed members of That is something this House does this House, who on many occasions not have. That is something that any go to see schools operating, that prin­ other wage fixing tribunal does not cipals operate under heavy pressure. have and cannot have at its beck and They have great deal of responsibility call. The tribunal or any other tri­ to the children in their care, to the bunal cannot understand the reasons staff under their authority and respon­ why this tribunal has made the de­ sibility and to the community. These cision. That is the fundamental prob­ principals are required to exercise lem that brings the matter to this more responsibility and authority than House. The tribunal has made a judg­ they did in the past. ment after hearing two days of evi­ It is proper that the community dence. It has made a finding by two should recognize the value of these edu­ members, not by the chairman, and cational leaders in our high schools. It that finding is not justified. is also important to note that the The Minister has said quite clearly amendment moved by Mr Walker cen­ that he wants the matter referred back tres on the crux of the Minister's de­ to the tribunal for those reasons so tailed and comprehensive statement to that this tribunal, the other consequen­ the House tonight. Mr Walker focused tial independent education tribunals, on the need for an examination and and tribunals responsible in the field report on the adequacies of the pro­ of education, can have at their finger cedures followed by the tribunal. tips the reasons for that finding. That 5748 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL is not what is presently available. The ways observe the decision of the um­ tribunal was asked to provide reasons, pire. That comes out daily like a dose but it did not do so and now it will of salts first thing in the morning. If be required to re-examine the matter that is the case, why is the Govern­ with the essential ingredient, back ment squealing about the decision of dated to 8 February, so that it can the tribunal? provide reasons. The HOD. N. F. Stacey-Because it I support the motion before the did not obey the rules. Chair and reject the amendment moved by Mr Walker. I must concede that The Hon. G. A. S. BUTLER-More Mr Walker has concentrated on the precisely, it did not make the right central element of the whole debate decision for the Liberal Party. Is that and that is not what honourable mem­ not what it is about? bers are worried about. This proposal is The HOD. A. J. Hunt-No, it is about attack.ing the tribunal and wage fixing the disregard of basic principles. decision procedures of the tribunal, not the teachers. The Hon. G. A. S. BUTLER-No, I honestly believe that if a tribunal has The Hon. G. A. S. BUTLER (Thomas­ made a decision for whatever reasons, town Province)-I did not want to be­ it has made it and that is it. It may come involved in this item, but the old or may not be correct but it has made trade union element in me is coming the decision. The Government has a out. This is all nonsense! The Minister Ministerial responsibility to carry it of Education does not accept a tribunal out. decision and everything the Liberal Government has said in the past The DEPUTY PRESIDENT (the Hon. twenty years, Federally and State, is W. M. Campbell)-Order! I think the that one should accept the umpire's Minister of Education had a fair go decision. Strangely enough, when the when he was speaking and he has now Government gets an umpire's decision had a fair go interjecting. It is good it squeals about it. I could apply the enough to stop other people interject­ old adage of "shut your mouth". ing so it is good enough to stop him. Quite frankly, that is what the Minister I ask the Minister of Education to cease ought to do. interjecting. The tribunal has made a decision. The Hon. G. A. S. BUTLER-I do The tribunal was duly appointed and not really mind if he interjects. I respect correctly constituted. I have not heard what you just did, Mr Deputy President. anyone say it was incorrect. It is all The facts of life are that the Govern­ above board legally. ment is not prepared to accept the tribunal's decision. I was prepared to The Hon. A. J. Hunt-You said it accept the collective decision of a was an incorrect decision. I was against group of people in Thomastown and the the ruling. Minister will have to accept this de­ The Hon. G. A. S. BUTLER-The cision. This matter concerns whether tribunal made a decision and, for the Minister is prepared to accept the what it was worth, decided that the decision of a tribunal that has granted principals were entitled to a 15 per an increase of 15 per cent to high cent increase. An honourable member school principals. He can argue as pointed out to me that one did not long as he lik.es about flow-on pro­ hear any screams about members of cedures. The tribunal was designated Parliament or judges receiving salary to consider the wages and structures increases. Why are we involved in an of principals in high schools and it argument about school principals? has made a decision. The fundamental fact is that the The decision is not to the Govern­ Minister and the Government have ment's liking, for that matter, it may consistently argued that we should al- not be to my liking, but that is not the 11 March 1981] High School Principals Salary Determination 5749 point. When the Minister reminds hon­ of school buildings and furniture. The ourable members, as he often does, that principals of three high schools in the we should accept the umpire's decision Shire of Whittlesea have been sub­ and that is the end of the story, that jected to great stress and worry be­ is what he should do this time and cause last year the Education Depart­ that is the answer to this question. ment promised that the Whittlesea Technical-High School and the Epping The Hon. R. J. EDDY (Thomastown High School would each have eleven Province) -I will be brief. Most of relocatables on -site by the opening of what had to be said has already been said and only a few more points need this school year and that the Lalor to be made. From the outset, I want North High School would have seven to say that honourable members have relocatables on site by the commence­ witnessed the desperation of a Minister ment of the school year. What hap­ in not providing any member of the pened? During the Christmas recess, Opposition the opportunity of perus­ the principals had to return to their ing the contents of the 13-page schools to find out what was going on. document he presented for debate. I was there when the principals were The Government did not give members present during the Chr:istmas recess. of the Opposition an opportunity of Despite their efforts, as late as today, perusing the file, which was fairly although the relocatables may be on thick and no doubt contained a great the sites, the principals are still waiting deal of material that members of the on furniture, gas and a lot of other Opposition would have found interest­ work to be carried out. They do not ing. The Minister was so desperate to know which way to turn. All of this have the debate proceed that, when the worry and stress has been imposed on Leader of the Opposition moved that them by the Education Department but the debate be adjourned until Tuesday because they are to receive an increase of next week, which would have been of 15 per cent, which may mean approx­ the normal procedure, the honourable imately $4000 a year, the Government gentleman forced the debate to con­ is not prepared to accept the tribunal's tinue this evening. decision, even though on 11 December The debate revolves around a major­ last year the Government introduced a ity decision made by the Victorian measure increasing the salaries of Teachers Tribunal. It does not matter judges of the Supreme and County whether the tribunal comprises three or Courts, not by IS per cent, but by five members, it was a majority deci­ approximately 25 per cent. That was sion of that tribunal to grant Victorian not a decision reached through arbitra­ high school principals an increase of tion and conciliation, it was a decision 15 per cent. Much has been said about reached by the Government, bu.t the the work of high school principals and Government will not countenance a 15 the way in which their health is affect­ per cent increase for high school prin­ ed, to the extent that many of them cipals who are responsible for a great have had to take sick leave or long number of staff, anything up to 1000 service leave to recuperate from the students and the carrying out of worry­ strains imposed on them in the carry­ ing tasks. ing out of their responsible duties, but not one member of the Government The Minister asked the House to de­ party has had a word of praise for the bate his motion almost immediately. My work done by high school principals. Leader made the point that the matter will not be finalized until late next week I direct the attention of the Minister because it still has to be debated in to some of the strains and stresses another place. I believe the period of that have been imposed on school prin­ adjournment suggested by the Leader cipals by the Education Department of the Opposition should have been and the Public Works Department, accepted. The amendment to the mo­ which work together in the provision tion moved by the Minister, which was 5750 High School Principals Salary Determination [COUNCIL ably moved by Mr Walker, should be NOES accepted by all honourable members, Mr Butler Mr Trayling Mrs Coxsedge Mr Walker and I ask them to support it. Mr Ounn Mr Walton Mr Eddy Mr White The House divided on the question Mr Evans Mr Wright that the words proposed by Mr Walker Mr Kennedy to be omitted stand part of the motion Mr Kent Tellers: (the Hon. F. S. Grimwade in the chair). Mr Landeryou Mr Mackenzie Mr Thomas Mr Sgro Ayes 27 PAIR Noes. . 13 Or Foley Mr Baxter ADJOURNMENT Majority against the Days and hours of sitting-Geelong­ amendment .. 14 Darlington bus service--Yan Yean Primary School-Superannuation pay­ AYES ments to widows-School uniforms­ Mrs Baylor Mr Knowles Petrol pricing Mr Block Mr Lawson The Hon. A. J. HUNT (Minister of ·Mr Bubb Mr Long Mr Campbell Mr Radford Education)-I move: Mr Chamberlain Mr Reid That the Council, at its rising, adjourn Mr Crozier Mr Saltmarsh until Tuesday, 24 March, at half-past four Mr Ounn Mr Stacey o'clock. Mr Evans Mr Storey Mr Granter Mr Taylor The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU Mr Guest Mr Ward (Doutta Galla Province) -I am as­ Mr Houghton Mr Wright tounded by the proposal of the Gov­ Or Howard Tellers: ernment. There are a number of meas­ Mr Hunt Mr Hauser Mr Jenkins Mr Hayward ures before the House which the Op­ position is willing, ready and able to debate and vote on. Maybe the Gov­ NOES ernment's legislative programme is so Mr Butler Mr Trayling Mrs Coxsedge Mr Walker poorly organized that it has no pro­ Mr Eddy Mr Walton posals to put to the Parliament, but Mr Landeryou Mr White nevertheless there are a number of is­ Mr Mackenzie Tellers: sues which are on the Notice Paper Mr Sgro Mr Kennedy Mr Thomas Mr Kent and which this House could debate. There has been no suggestion to this side of the House until now that the The House divided on the motion (the House should adjourn, other than in the Hon. F. S. Grimwade in the chair). normal way, until Tuesday next. One Ayes 24 of the extraordinary things about this Noes 16 Government is that one is never sure what it will do because it is never sure what it wants to do. Majority for the motion 8 I find it an extraordinary proposal that the House, having been called back AYES by you, Mr President, in the proper way Mrs Baylor Mr Jenkins is suddenly going to have one week off, Mr Block Mr Long Mr Bubb Mr Radford having just started. Honourable mem­ Mr Campbell Mr Reid bers have spent a few hours together Mr Chamberlain Mr Saltmarsh and admittedly if it had not been for Mr Crozier Mr Stacey the Opposition, the Legislative Council Mr Granter Mr Storey Mr Guest Mr Taylor would not have done very much at all. Mr Hauser Mr Ward Nevertheless, the Minister of Edu­ Mr Hayward cation as Leader of the Government is Mr Houghton Tellers: Or Howard Mr Knowles now proposing that the House adjourn Mr Hunt Mr Lawson until Tuesday week. That is an out- 11 March 1981] Adjournment 5751 rageous proposal to be made by a Min­ The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU­ ister who steadfastly opposes any I was making a comment in response reduction in the working hours of those to an interjection from the Leader of who labpur considerably longer in a the Government. I will return to the day than do many honourable members subject-matter and the substance of in a week. The proposal to adjourn for what I am putting. It should be remem­ a fortnight has been made without any bered that the proposal is an insult explanation or justification, and if mem­ to the taxpayers of this State just as bers of the Opposition had not been it is an insult to the members of this listening intently then perhaps the House, such as they are. The House Minister of Education would have got has not met since the middle of Decem­ away with his sleight of hand trick. ber last year when it \ adjourned until On your behalf, Mr President, I am March 1981. The House has recon­ insulted that you have, as the Presiding vened and had hardly got started but Officer, and no doubt at the request of after bashing the school principals and the Government, had to summon the the Teachers Tribunal, the Government Council together. That was done in the decides that it will adjourn the House normal way and so far this week the for another fortnight. That is lament­ House has proceeded in the normal able and to me it is a disgraceful set way in terms of early days of a session­ of circumstances for which the Gov­ al period. ernment should be condemned. I have been a strong advocate in If this is to be the attitude of the this Chamber of the Government or­ Leader of the Government with respect ganizing its legislative programme in to submitting ridiculous proposals at such a way that it only meets when short notice, as he did today and again it can perform positive work and dis­ tonight, then that is the end of co­ cuss the worth and proposals of the operation so far as the Labor Party is Government, but the Leader of the concerned. House has not chosen to adopt that If the Government has no business to course. discuss next week or if it is frightened The Hon. A. J. Hunt-Hence this of revelations that might come out in motion. the Parliament next week, in one The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU­ Chamber or another, I could under­ Again the honourable gentleman is full stand that. However, it cannot hide of hypocrisy. What is happening next from the inevitable fact that electoral week? Does the Liberal Party propose justice is about to catch up with it. to hold 45 other meetings to consider That is the reality, as much as the casinos and other ratbag proposals? Government might want to hide and To me it is an abuse of privileges silence the Parliament. Even that will of the House, and that certainly was be resisted, perhaps ineffectively by the case yesterday. my thirteen colleagues in this Chamber, The Hon. A. J. Hunt-It was an but the people of Victoria are not that abuse of privileges by the Opposi tion. silly, as the polls are indicating, and even the· lifelong friend of the Hamer The Hon. W. A. LANDERYOU­ Government, the Herald newspaper, has The reality is that a meeting of the suddenly decided that it has to question Liberal Party occurred last night simply the morality of this almost degenerate because the Government was in a Government which is bereft of ideas. position where, despite the fact that the Premier started with 18 votes, he could The proposal by the Minister of Edu­ only pick up 12 of the remaining 60. cation to adjourn the House for a fort­ The PRESIDENT (the Hon. F. S. night is a massive insult to you, Mr Grimwade)-Order! The Leader of the President. It certainly is a massive in­ Opposition is straying very far from sult to the remaining members of this the motion which is: House who I am sure do not support That the Council, at its rising, ad.iourn until the move by the Government to silence Tuesday, March 24 at half-past four o'clock. the Parliament. In my view it is also a 5752 Adjournment [COUNCIL massive insult to the people of this The Hon. B. P. DUNN-Mr Wright State who have to pick up the tab for says that that is what the Government running this very expensive and is blaming the Melbourne City Council elaborate Chamber. for, but I think it indicates that Min­ The Hon. B. P. DUNN (North isters are not coming up with the goods Western Province) -Members of the and getting their legislation ready early National Party are disappointed that enough. They have had plenty of time at the very beginning of this sessional in which to have the legislation ready period of Parliament the Government for introduction into the House. has insufficient business to put before If the Opposition and the National the House to ensure that it can sit con­ Party were not continually bringing be­ tinuously. Such a position indicates that fore this House motions of urgency on the Government virtually went to sleep debate on behalf of the people of Vic­ during the period between the end of toria, the House would be struggling to the last sessional period and the com­ justify its existence in the terms of mencement of this sessional period. the legislation that the Government is now bringing before the Parliament. It The proposal put by the Minister of indicates to me a Government that has Education also indicates that the new lost direction, initiative and is devoid initiatives which are being spoken about of fresh and new ideas; it is stale. are only talk and have not been con­ verted into legislation or into action The National Party has matters to which should have been taken if the debate, matters that it wants to put Government was serious in introduc­ to the Minister, and matters that it ing these new initiatives, new ideas wants to raise generally. Members of and new directions. Legislation to cover the National Party have been here to­ those aspects should have been ready night, and have made contributions in for introduction into the House at the the past two days, and we are prepared beginning of this sessional period. to do that as long as the Government wants this House of Parliament to sit. Instead, here we are on the second The Hon. E. H. WALKER (Melbourne day of the sitting and the Government Province) -I find not only the motion, has run out of business and is therefore but the manner in which it was moved, suggesting that the House adjourn for quite unacceptable. This Parliament has almost two weeks. I know, and I have just been treated to a misuse of the seen it happen for years, that at the forms of the House. I was told by a end of this sessional period the House senior member of the Government out­ will be sitting until three or four side that he was not able to look at o'clock in the morning, dealing with a matter in Committee next week be­ Bill after Bill. It will be left with 40 or 50 Bills on the Notice Paper with cause there was too much work. It one week to go and then the Leader was not the Leader of the House who of the House and members of the Gov­ told me, but a colleague of his. What ernment party will be standing up and sort of cynical exercise is this? I am told there is no time for a committee s~ating how urgent it is to get these to do an important piece of work, and BIlls through because the session has then the House is asked to adjourn to conclude for one reason or another. until Tuesday week, presumably be­ It happens every time but what it cause the Government does not have means is that the Government cannot any work of its own to do. It is efficiently conduct its legislative pro­ a form of censorship; the Minister and gramme. Quite clearly it cannot con­ honourable members know that, and duct its legislative programme in the the public ought to know about it. other House and cannot conduct it here. The National Party, and my Party, are therefore unable to bring matters The Hon. K. I. Wright-That is what before the House, the way we normally the Government is blaming the Mel­ would, next week, and it means that bourne City Council for, the inter-party relations, which have 11 March 1981] Adjournment 5753 been reasonably amicable in this of the sloppy performance of Cabinet, House, have been suspended. The the sloppy performance of the bureau­ House only works because we have the cracy, the fact that Ministers are not capacity to talk to each other about in touch with each other, and the fact what is happening and what should that the bureaucracy has not ensured happen. It does not mean that we that the job is ready by the time Par­ agree, but at least we agree on the liament starts. It is part of the imple­ forms and the structure of the House. mentation of new directions at work. We do not agree with the House being The Minister for Local Government in existence, but in the forms of com­ has gone on record to the people of munication to ensure that work is done. Victoria and informed them that the The Leader of the House said that Melbourne City Council would' be out he does not want the House to sit of business by 1 April. As part of the next week because the Government is policy of new directions, that will not having trouble. The House has worked occur. That is another promise that he well in the past, but because the Gov­ will fail to deliver. ernment cannot handle its legislation, The Hon. D. G. Crozier-You are the it has tried to slip through a motion April fool in this one. that the House will not sit until Tues­ day week. That is a cynical action that The Hon. D. R. WHITE-It was the public should know about, and if April Fool's Day because we had a fool they did, they would take action. How­ a t work again. ever, they will not be told unless we The PRESIDENT (the Hon. F. S. can get to the press this evening. Grimwade}-The honourable member The forms of the House ought to be is not speaking to the motion. I suggest used constructively. The motion is a that he does so. serious cutting of the forms. It does The Hon. D. R. WHITE-I am talk­ the Minister no credit to try to slip ing about a decision by the Leader through this motion without negotia­ of the House to delay the business of tion. this House for another week. It means, The Hon. D. R. WHITE (Doutta as part of the policy of new directions, Galla Province ) -The motion is the that the Legislative Council, the hard­ implementation of the policy of new working House of Review, will have directions. The proposal of the Leader met by 1 September, a period of eight of the House represents the second and a half months, not more than six step backwards in two days. Everyone weeks. This is part of the policy, "Get recalls the first step backwards; that Victoria back to work". We will meet was Hamer's casino decision, paragraph for six weeks in eight and a half 6·24 of the new directions document. months, and we are to start the autumn Part of these new directions of getting sessional period by taking a week off. the State moving, of finding jobs, over­ We have not had much of a break! coming the unemployment problem, of We have been in ulcer country for a getting the Victorian economy moving, week and a half, and now we are to is the second step announced by the have a week's holiday. It has been Leader of the House, that we are going too much strain for our colleagues. It to have a holiday for a week. That is has been too much strain for the Min­ the policy of new directions at work! isters who need a break-especially the Parliamentary Secretary of the What is the situation if I, as a mem­ Cabinet who is looking for the num­ ber, want to move a private members bers in South Barwon, and Aurel Smith Bill and I contact the Parliamentary does not want him because he thinks Counsel today? I will find that they are he will lose the seat; there is so much bogged down in the process of prepar­ of a personal vote at stake. The mem­ ing legislation that ought to have been 'bers of the front bench need the break. prepared for the commencement of the They have been hard at work for a day sessional period on March 10, but it and a half. It has been pretty tough. is not ready to be introduced because This is new directions at work. 5754 Adjournment [COUN

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

PRISON DORMITORIES dormitory and the number of single and double bunks, respectively? (Question No. 163) (b) Is it the Government's policy to abolish The Hon. R. J. EDDY (Thomastown dormitories in prisons? Province) asked the Minister for Con­ (c) Is there any evidence which suggests that dormitories in prisons may be a factor servation, for the Minister for Com­ in homosexual attacks on prisoners? munity Welfare Services: The Hon. W. V. HOUGHTON (a) How many dormitories are in each prison (Minister for Conservation) -The in Victoria giving, in respect of each dormitory, answers supplied by the Minister for the number of prisoners housed, the size of the Community Welfare Services is: 11 March 1981] Questions on Notice 5761

(a) Taking dormitories as meaning accom­ The Hon. HAD DON STOREY modation with more than one occupant, the information sought is as follows:- (Attorney-General)-The answer is: (a) None. (b) Yes. Maximum Numb"r of (c) No. Prisoners (d) No. Housed Siu of Dormitories ARBITRATION ACT Pentridge­ "0" Division 98 7 hold 4 prisoners each (Question No. 178) 4 hold 8 prisoners each 3 hold 12 prisoners each "F" Division 164 2 hold 44 prisoners each The Hon. D. M. EVANS (North I holds 18 prisoners each Eastern Province) asked the Attorney­ 1 holds 58 prisoners each "E" Division SS I holds 4 prisoners each General: I holds 5 prisoners each 2 hold 7 prisoners each Did the Chief Justice's Law Reform Com­ 2 hold 16 prisoners each mittee recommend the reform of the Arbitra­ Fairlea 57 2 hold 5 prisoners each 2 hold 10 prisoners each tion Act 1958 in 1974 and 1977~ if so, wlren J holds 7 prisoners each will he take action on those recommendations? I holds 8 prisoners each I holds 12 prisoners each The Hon. HADDON STOREY Ararat 190 I holds 2 prisoners each 4 hold 47 prisoners each (Attorney-General) -The answer is: Beechworth 10 2 hold 3 prisoners each 2 hold 2 prisoners each At a meeting of the Standing Committee of Bendigo 37 3 hold 7 prisoners each Attorneys-General in February 1974 it was 4 hold 4 prisoners each decided that the committee should consider Castlemaine , , 23 3 hold 3 prisoners each 2 hold 6 prisoners each the various arbitration legislation of the Aus­ I holds 2 prisoners each tralian States, the Commonwealth and the Dhurringile 58 I holds 8 prisoners each United Kingdom and a number of reports in I holds 9 prisoners each I holds 10 prisoners each relation to arbitration with a view to progress­ 1 holds 13 prisoners each ing towards the introduction of a model Bill 2 hold 3 prisoners each which would be uniform throughout Australia. 3 hold 4 prisoners each Geelong 3S 3 hold 3 prisoners each The work in relation to arbitration revealed 4 hold 4 prisoners each 2 hold S prisoners each the necessity for more detailed research and Morwell River 80 2 hold 40 prisoners each this caused the reference to the Chief Justice's Sale 28 2 hold 9 prisoners each Law Reform Committee which resulted in the I holds 10 prisoners each Won Wron 90 3 hold 30 prisoners each 1977 report of that committee. "F" Division is the only situation where the accommodation After further consideration of that and other consists of double bunks, reports in addition to a number of submis­ sions the Standing Committee in 1978 referred a report of its officers to the Parliamentary (b) Yes. Counsel's Committee for the preparation of a ( C) The most serious h~mosexu~l ~ttacks draft uniform Bill. on prisoners have occurred m dormitorIes and this was in November 1980 when three rapes The present position is that the Standing Committee has con~idered a number of reports and two threatened rapes were reported. Pre­ from the Parliamentary Counsel's Committee viously instances were predominant. in "J" in relation to the draft Bill and I am hopeful Division between 1973 and 1977 which was that a uniform Bill could be adopted at the then providing dormitory accommodation for next full meeting of the Standing Committee. young offenders. "J" Division was converted If this occurs, I expect to be in a position to to single cellular accommodation in 1978. make a recommendation to the Government for the introduction of legislation in the spring session of this year. APPOINTMENT AND QUALIFICATIONS OF ARBITRATORS (Question No. 179) (Question No. 177) The Hon. D. M. EV ANS (North The Hon. D. M. EV ANS (North Eastern Province) asked the Attorney­ Eastern Province) asked the Attorney­ General: General: (a) Has he reviewed the Arbitration Act (a) What quali.fications (if any) ~re ~equired 1958; if so, will' a Bill to amend the Act be of arbitrators act109 under the ArbitratIon Act submitted to Parliament? 1958? (b) If a review is incompleted, when will (b) May an undischarged bankrupt be it be completed or be sufficiently advanced to appointed an arbitrator under this Act? allow amending legislation to be introduced? (c) Does the Registrar of the Supreme Court The Hon. HADDON STOREY keep a register of arbitrators and consultants? (Attorney-General) -The answer is: (d) Do any convictions debar persons from (a) and (b). I refer the honourable member such appointments under the Act? to the answer to question No. 178. 5762 Questions without Notice [ASSEMBLY

Mr THOMPSON· (Treasurer)-Yes, the Legislative Assembly Government would be prepared to give such consideration. However, only this VVednesday, 11 ~arch 1981 morning I received a letter from a rep­ resentative of a section of the insurance broking industry requesting that no The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ precipitant action be taken by States man) took the chair at 11.8 a.m. and to introduce legislation of this type read the prayer. because of the difficulties this could cause with various statutes in the States, and strongly advocating that QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE Federal Government action should be taken first. ELECTRICITY TARIFFS To take the matter a step further, 1 ~r VVlLKES (Leader of the Opposi­ have agreed to receive a deputation tion) -1 remind the Premier of his con­ from the Victorian branch of the in­ fusing statement made last week-end surance broking industry and that depu­ that 74 companies were operating on tation is due to take place in approxi­ the same tariff charges as that proposed mately three weeks' time. for Alcoa of Australia Ltd. Can the honourable gentleman now confirm that DEVELOPMENT PHONE-IN no companies are currently operating CAMPAIGN on the tariff M option 5 rate that has Mr BROVVN (Westernport)-I ask the been negotiated exclusively for Alcoa Minister for Economic Development: of Australia Ltd? What was the purpose of the Minister's ~r HA~ER (Premier)-The truth of recent three day phone-in campaign, the matter is that tariff M operates to what information was received as a cover 74 companies. It was designed result of the phone-in campaign, and in 1938 in order to give a special tariff what proposals, if any, does the Minis­ for large industries using large amounts ter propose to implement as the result of power and for the purpose of attract­ of information received from the cam­ ing industry to the State. According to paign? various criteria, especially as to the Mr I. VV. SMITH (Minister for usage of power, the tariff for Alcoa of Economic Development) -The purpose Australia Ltd fits into one of the of the phone-in campaign was to options, which has always been part of identify more projects than the Gov­ tariff M. ernment now knows about which are in need of facilitation. The campaign INSURANCE BROKERS was an amazing success. Many hun­ Mr ROSS-EDVV ARDS (Leader of the dreds of people telephoned in who not National Party) -1 refer the Treasurer only want to undertake legitimate pro­ to the problems being encountered by jects in this State but who also have several insurance brokers around Aus­ the money to do it and who need no tralia. Last week in Victoria an in­ other assistance from the three levels surance broker went into receivership, of Government than for the three levels and earlier this week an insurance of Government to be more co-operative broker in Adelaide failed. Recognizing and to stop delaying. that it is basically a Federal problem, Towards those ends I am undertaking will the Treasurer consider the intro­ a revision of the major factors which duction of stop-gap legislation in Vic­ have been shown up in this campaign toria pending the taking of some action where delay, unnecessary frustration by the Federal Government to protect and humbug occur and I should like to the many tens of thousands of people indicate to people who want to under­ who are insured through insurance take legitimate projects in this State brokers in this State? that it will not be too long before the 11 March 1981] Questions without Notice 5763 process of assisting and facilitating to ensure that that abattoir could con­ them with their endeavours will be tinue to survive? If the honourable available. gentleman is aware of this, can he recon­ cile the action of that Government with PUBLIC TRANSPORT the fact that the Vktorian Government Mr CRABB (Knox)-In view of the has refused to provide direct financial Premier's statement in his publication assistance to Co-Operative Farmers and Victoria's Strategy for the Eighties, Graziers Direct Meat Supply Ltd pri­ extolling the virtues of Melbourne's marily in order to enable it to keep that public transport system, in particular abattoir open? the rail network, and in view of the ~Ir HAMER (Premier)-The Govern­ demonstrable community support for ment has supported Co-Operative the retention of that rail network, will Farmers and Graziers Direct Meat the Premier now agree not to close any Supply Ltd in the past on two succes­ railway line until after the next State si;ye occasions in order to keep the election when the community will have establishment running. On this third oc­ had the opportunity of demonstrating casion, when the Government already its support in the ballot box? faces the probability of paying a large amount of money based on its guarantee Mr HAMER (Premier)-I do not know jointly with the Federal Government, whether the honourable member is the Government has decided that it is putting any weight on the number of not prepared to put further funds into people who turned up yesterday in front the organizat

States with contributions on a dollar exammmg whether there is some pro­ for dollar basis, together with contribu­ cess whereby home owners in financial tions from industry if that is approp­ difficulties can, in some way, be assisted riate. This will give a boost to group finanCially either by way of a subsidy apprenticeship schemes in the future. of their interest rates or by having dis­ Employers will have a capacity to take cussions with the Commonwealth Gov­ up -further apprentices than has been ernment with a view to introducing tax the case in the past, because, as a com­ deductions on interest paid? munity, we ought to recognize that the gap between approximately 18 000 Mr KENNETT (Minister of Housing) young people who want apprentice­ -It is a tragic fact that perhaps the ships and the approximate 10 000 people greatest area of growth on the Housing who take them up is an indictment upon Commission waiting list for welfare us all. housing in this State is among the single parent families. The question posed by UNEMPLOYMENT the honourable member for Noble Park is one the commission is currently look­ Mr JOLLY (Dandenong)-Will the ing at because there are many families Premier explain why the Victoria's where regretfully the marriages are Strategy for the Eighties document ac­ breaking up-we term them families in cepts a target rate of 4 per cent per crisis-which in turn means that many annum for economic growth when it is of these people have to sell the matri­ generally acknowledged, including an monial home and split the proceeds be­ acknowledgment by the Victorian Gov­ tween the male and female parents. ernment advocate before the Full Bench at the national wage case, that this 4 What the commission is examining per cent economic growth rate is in­ in this area is to see whether there is sufficient to bring about a reduction in some way the commission can subsidize Victoria's disastrous rate of unemploy­ the parent who remains with the chil­ dren to enable them to stay in their ment? family homes. This may be achieved by Mr HAMER .(Premier)-The figure is the Housing Commission subsidizing a realistic appraisal. It is not just for their housing loan repayments or their Victoria because Victoria does not and rental payments, whatever it may be, cannot have a different growth rate because in more cases than not, if they from the rest of Australia. Victoria have to move out of their family homes, is part of Australia. It is an estimate they become clients of the Housing of what Australia can do and I inform Commission anyway. the honourable member that if Aus­ By taking this sort of evasive action, tralia achieves, as the Government hopes the commission can do two things. it will a growth rate of 4 per cent or Firstly it will ensure that the families, better,' then there will be a reduction in and particularly the children of these unemployment, as the honourable mem­ families in criSis, have an opportunity ber well knows. for security and solidarity while they are going through this traumatic experi­ HOUSING FINANCE ence. Secondly, it will be keeping them Mr COLLINS (Noble Park)-I direct off the Housing Commission waiting my question to the new Minister of lists. I hope to have a report on this pro­ Housing whom I congratulate on join­ ject brought to me within the next four ing the front bench. In view of some of to six weeks. the Minister's new initiatives in the housing area, has the honourable gentle­ HOSPITAL FINANCES man given consideration to the fact that Mr EDMUNDS (Ascot Vale)- as many young families find it equally The Premier would be aware of the difficult to retain their homes as there parlous financial situation of Victoria's are those trying to find finance to obtain public hospitals where it is expected their homes? Will the honourable that collectively there will be a $20 mil­ gentleman give serious consideration to lion deficit this year. Therefore, will the 11 March 1981] Questions without Notice 5765

Premier as Leader of the Government, report handles that matter in a sensible conside; following the lead of the Wran way, and I am certain ,that as soon as Government in New South Wales by the report is made avaIlable to hono':!r­ agreeing to meet half the deficit of Vic­ able members, they will be pleased WIth toria's public hospitals in this financial the council's recommendations. year provided that the. Commo~wealth Government will meet Its commitments VICTORIAN ROAD TOLL under· the cost sharing arrangements? Mr REYNOLDS (Gisborne)-I direct a question to the Minister for Police and Mr HAMER (Premier)-I believe the Emergency Services. Although there question ought to be directed to t.he has been a particularly bad start to the Treasurer, who would be better eqUIp­ road toll for 1981, a figure of which ped to answer the question of the hon­ none of us can be proud, can the Min­ ourable member for Ascot Vale. I am ister inform the House how Victoria's not familiar with the details of the defi­ figures stand in relation to those of cits and financial commitments of the other States of Australia and other hospitals. The best answer I can give, countries, particularly the United States if I am to answer the question, is that the Government will consider that pro­ of America? posal. Mr THOMPSON (Minister for Police and Emergency Services) -It is quite YOUNG FARMERS SETTLEMENT true that the January figures for the SCHEME Victorian road toll were most dis­ appointing when compared with thc:>se Mr l\'lcGRATH (Lowan)-The Minister of last year, when there was a reductIon of Agriculture would be aware that from 840 to 660 in the number of deaths some eighteen months ago the young on the road. farmers settlement scheme was estab­ lished by the Government although it In January this year 65 people. were has not yet got off the ground. I under­ killed on the roads, compared WIth 45 stand that the Ministry of Agriculture last year. That is partly accounted .for received a report from the recently by the fact that there were three trIple established Young Farmers Finance fatalities and one quadruple fatality on Council. Is the honourable gentleman the roads, whereas for the whole of last in a position to give any details of that year only two triple fatal~ties occurr~d. report at this stage? However, since that date It has steadIed and at present the figure stands at 145 !vir AUSTIN (Minister of Agriculture) for this year as against 129 for last year. -Yes, the Young Farmers Finance Council was set up twelve months ago The picture for Victoria in relat.ion ~o last December and was commissioned to other States and other countrIes IS bring in a report within twelve months. rather interesting. It shows that there That report has been received by me are 9 injury accidents per 1000 regis­ and will very shortly be tabled in the tered vehicles in Victoria, 13 in Australia House. as a whole and 21 in the United States of America. This State has the lowest I congratulate the council on the work level, always qualified ~y. the fac~ that it has done over that twelve months, it is difficult to compare Injury aCCIdents and I think the report is a most practical because of different criteria that may be and sensible one. It is hoped that this used. will be the means of soon getting a However, on the fatal side, for obviOUS scheme going which will finally estab­ reasons, the figures become more re­ lish a worth-while number of young liable, although even there some dif­ farmers on the land. ferences occur because people who We know the tremendous cost in­ die at later stages are sometimes volved in this day and age in establish­ included in the accident statistics for ing farmers, particularly in the sheep the previous year and sometimes not. and cropping arena, on a farm. When Those figures show that at present, the cost of doing that is $300000 or for example, we have a death rate $400000, it is not an easy task, but this in Victoria of 3·4 people per 10 000 5766 Questions without Notice [ASSEMBLY vehicles a year; the rate is also 3·4 In broad, it involves extensive adver­ people per 10000 vehicles in the United tising throughout the State for pros­ State of America. The latest figures pective adoptive parents for children in available for Austraila as a whole show the 4 to 15 age group, and for children: that there are 5· 1 deaths per year per of all ages, including infants, who are 10 000 vehicles, so the Victorian rate intellectually and physically disabled. is impressive, pat:'ticularly as the figure This is the first time adoptive parents was 8·1 people at the beginning of the have been sought for physically disabled 1970s compared with 3·4 people per children in this category, and I think 10 000 vehicles now. it appropriate that this should be done early in the International Year of Dis­ AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY abled Persons. Mr FOGARTY (Sunshine)-I refer the I assure the honourable member that Premier to the document entitled Vic­ prospective adoptive parents for dis­ toria's Strategy for the Eighties at page abled children in country Victoria will 32 where it is proposed to increase agri­ have equal opportunity, as will their cultural production by 25 per cent in counterparts in the metropolitan area. the next decade. I also refer to the Advertisements will appear in State­ statement made by the newly appointed wide newspapers as well as in metro­ Minister of Agriculture, who stated on politan newspapers, and it is proposed 12 February that the proposed increase to have a meeting for prospective adop­ of 25 per cent would be made over 25 tive parents in country centres, which years, into the 21st century. will include Ballarat. This follows on As these reports, if they are factual, representations I have received from show a conflict between the Premier and the honourable member for Ballarat his Ministers, will the Premier now South and her colleagues. Meetings ensure that there is uniformity and will also be held in Bendigo, Mildura, unanimity in statements made on this Warrnambool, Wangaratta, Sale and very important matter? Horsham. As a result of those meet­ ings, it is anticipated that disabled Mr HAMER (Premier)-I adhere to children in all parts of Victoria will the statement made in the document, have an equal opportunity of finding which I thank the honourable member suitable adoptive parents during this for publicizing so well. We do aim at year. a 25 per cent increase in production from primary industry in Victoria in the "VICTORIA'S STRATEGY FOR THE next ten years. EIGHTIES" Once again we ought to learn not to Mr FORDHAM {Footscray)-I also put too much reliance in a press report, direct the attention of the Premier to which is in fact inaccurate. his well known publication Victoria's Strategy for the Eighties, extolling the ADOPTION OF DISABLED virtue, of all things, of Victoria's tem­ CHILDREN perate climate. Has the Premier now Mrs CHAMBERS (Ballarat South)-I decided to put aside his earlier argu­ direct my question to the Minister for ment suggesting the prime reason for Community Welfare Services with refer­ Victoria's exodus of popUlation over ence to a programme that his depart­ recent years to Queensland and Western ment recently announced to look for Australia-14 500 adult workers over adoptive parents for disabled children the past twelve months-was the more and older children. Will the Minister hospitable climates in Western Aus­ inform the House whether any oppor­ tralia and Queensland? tunity will be given to country people In view of the somewhat meteorol­ to participate in this scheme. gical approach to Victoria's popUlation Mr JONA (Minister for Community prospects, and that the Government's Welfare Services) -The details of the approach to decision making will lead programme have been announced today. to somewhat of an ice age in this State, 11 March 1981] Questions without Notice 5767

will the Premier consider using factors grains should be deleted from the pro­ other than the climate to determine posed plant variety rights legislation Victoria's future? and, if so, why has that been done? The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ Mr AUSTIN (Minister of Agriculture) man)-It is a somewhat frivolous ques­ -The matter of plant variety rights was tion. discussed at a recent agricultural council meeting in Hobart. Mr HAMER (Premier)-In reply to that somewhat frivolous question, I Mr Simpson-Was that at Wrest would have thought that even in his Point? elementary geography lessons, the Deputy Leader of the Opposition would Mr AUSTIN-We looked at Wrest have been told, and established for him­ Point while we were there. The States self, that Victoria has a temperate' agreed that the Federal Minister for Primary Industry should be allowed to climate. go ahead and introduce plant variety rights legislation into the autumn ses­ BREAD INDUSTRY sional period of Federal Parliament. Mr JASPER (Murray Valley)-Is the This will provide an opportunity for Minister for Economic Development people who are interested to make rep­ aware that the bread baking industry resentations during the winter recess is the only industry not recognized as and the legislation will then be reviewed a decentralized industry in Victoria? before the spring sessional period. Taking into account the new directions The specific matter that obviously for the 1980s as set out by the Victorian concerns the honourable member for Government, will the Minister consider Syndal relates to those see,ds or plants accepting the bread baking industry as that would be exempt and this is a a decentralized industry in Victoria for matter that will be discussed at some it to gain the benefits from decentral­ length between now and the eventual ization? passing or otherwise of the proposed Mr I. W. SMITH (Minister for legislation. The argument concerns Economic Development) -I am sure coarse grains and pasture seeds which, that the bread baking industry is not at this stage, are exempt from the pro­ the only industry in country Victoria posed legislation. In other words, it tha t is not recognized as a decentralized relates to horticulture rather than nor­ industry. I am sure that there are many mal farm plants. Victoria must take more. I am not prepared to give the stock of that fact when the proposed honourable member an undertaking in legislation is introduced in the autumn relation to the bread industry at present, sessional period by the Minister, Mr except to say that the range of incen­ Nixon. tives that the Government offers, which is unequalled by any other State in Aus­ PETROL PRICING INQUIRY tralia, for decentralized industry is now Mr AMOS (Morwell)-My question being reviewed. It will be reviewed, to the Minister of Consumer Affairs not with the idea of spending less, but relates to the petrol pricing inquiry with the idea of spending more effec­ initiated and announced by the Premier tively and at less cost to the adminis­ after a prompting at a press conference tration. Therefore, until this process has been completed I am not able to late last year. Will the Minister indi­ answer the question. cate who conducted that inquiry? What resources were made available to the inquiry and at what cost and, in par­ PROPOSED PLANT VARIETY RIGHTS ticular, did the person or persons who LEGISLATION conducted the inquiry travel interstate Mr COLEMAN (Syndal)-Can the to obtain evidence of petrol prices and Minister of Agriculture explain why it price fixing mechanisms in the other

I has been suggested that certain coarse States? 5768 Petitions [ASSEMBLY

Mr RAMSA Y (Minister of Consumer Kemrez factory, Cheltenham Affairs) -The resources of the Ministry Mr CRELLIN (Sandringham) pre­ of Consumer Affairs were made avail­ sented a petition from certain citizens able to officers of the Ministry and a praying that an inquiry be conducted full inquiry was conducted. Contact was into the chemical emissions from the made with the Ministries of Consumer Kemrez factory situated in Reserve Affairs in the other States and full infor­ Road, Cheltenham, and t~at action be mation was obtained of the situation taken to enforce the Env'lfonment Pro­ in those States. It was interesting to tection Authority licence conditions and note that when State Governments to protect public health. He stated th~t moved to fix petrol prices independently the petition was respectfully worded, In of the Prices Justification Tribunal the order, and bore 30 signatures. effect in South Australia and New South Wales was that the majority of con­ It was ordered that the petition be sumers finished up paying more for laid on the table. petrol than they were before. PAPERS It is clear that the Prices Justification The following papers, pursuant to the Tribunal is currently determining the directions of several Acts of Parliament, basis of petrol pricing in Australia and were laid on the table by the Clerk: it is due to table its report on 31 March of this year. It would be counter­ Portland Harbor Trust Commissioners­ productive and not in the best interests Statement of Accounts for the year 1979-80. Statutory Rules under the following Acts: of consumers of this State or anywhere Marine Act 1958-No. 40. else in Australia for State Governments Parliamentary Salaries and Superannuation to move independently of that inquiry Act 196B-No. 39. to determine price fixing mechanisms. Public Service Act 1974-PSD No. :H. Young Farmers' Finance Council Act 1979- PETITIONS Report made pursuant to Section (12) (1) (c) of the Act advising and assisting the Melbourne City Council Minister-Ordered to be printed. Mr REMINGTON (Melbourne)-I present a petition fr~m. 'cer~ain cit~zell:s ORDER OF BUSINESS praying that a pubbc InquIry be Insti­ Mr LACY (Minister of Educational tuted prior to any decision being taken Serv'ices) -I move: to restructure the council of the City of That consideration of Notice of Motion, Melbourne. The petition is respectfully Government Business, No. 1, be postponed until worded. in order. and bears 2516 signa­ later this day. tures. I desire the petition to be read. The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ The Standing Orders were suspended man)-Is leave granted? to enable the petition to be read, and Mr FORDHAM (Footscray)-Yes. I the petition was read by the Clerk. It wish to speak to the motion. The Op­ was in the following terms: position concurs with the request made TO THE HONOURABLE THE SPEAKER AND earlier today by the Minister of Educa­ MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE tional Services to defer this matter until ASSEMBLY IN PARLIAMENT ASSEMBLED: later on the grounds that, firstly, the The humble petition of the under~igned cit!­ material that ought to be made available zens of Victoria request that the City Council of Melbourne be retained and that the action to members of the Legislative Assembly to appoint administrators not be proceeded is not ready to be tabled in the House with. and will be ready later. It would be The undersigned b~seech that a. ~ublic .in­ wrong to proceed without that material quiry be instituted prIor t? any decls~on beIng being made available. Secondly, it taken regarding restructurIng of t~~ City Cou!l­ should be initiated 'in another House, cH of Melbourne. And your petitioners as ID rather than the Legislative Assembly. I duty bound will ever pray. made it clear that in no way do mem­ It was ordered that the petition be bers of the Opposition concur with that laid on the table. proposition. We do not agree that the 11 March 1981] Sessional Orders 5769 Legislative Assembly should wait on a Mr Wilkes-Why not do it now? decision of the Legislative Council on a Mr MACLELLAN-The Leader of the matter of this sort. Opposition interjects that he wants to In reference to the Teaching Service do it now. All that the Opposition has Act, there are independent decisions to to do to enable that to happen is to be made by the two Houses. If the deal expeditiously with this matter, then assistant Minister wishes to play at there will be a brief mention of Notices being Minister-and I believe he ought of Motion, Government Business, Nos. to do so because he is obviously a fully­ 2 to 8. I understand that item 8 is fledged Minister of Education-there agreed to; nevertheless, it may need is no reason why this debate cannot some discussion. Then the motion of proceed before the debate in the Legis­ the Leader of the Opposition can be lative Council. If that had been the sole dealt with. However, I should think that reason for the adjournment, the Opposi­ the Leader of the Opposition would be tion would have had grave doubts about better served if he commenced his re­ suporting it. The principle of the role marks on the subject of the want-of­ of the Assembly is one for which I have confidence motion after lunch so that always stood up, and members of the he is not interrupted by the suspension Government have done similarly in of the sitting. The Leader of the Opposi­ other circumstances. tion is well aware of why I propose that The motion was agreed to. his motion be dealt with after lunch in a realistic and sensible manner. I am suggesting now that the Ses­ SESSIONAL ORDERS sional Order under which the House Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ worked during the last sessional period port)-I move: be re-established. It will produce better That the following Sessional Order be management of business and allow adopted: Government Business to proceed in "lA. During the present Session, Government a sensible order, and it will permit Business shall take precedence of all other sensible arrangements to be made be­ business (including motions pursuant to Stand­ ing Order No. 26 which is hereby to the neces­ tween the parties where other important sary extent suspended) each Tuesday, Wed­ and pressing matters need time. During nesday and Friday." the last sessional period it did not limit The SPEAKER (the Hon. S. J. Plow­ the Opposition in the way suggested by man)-Is the motion seconded? the Leader of the Opposition last night. Mr HAMER (Premier)-Yes, Mr I discussed the Government's intenttion of reintroducing this Sessional Order Speaker. with the other parties on Tuesday, and Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ it came as a surprise to me, before I port) -This motion re-establishes the had even given notice of the motion in Sessional Order which operated during the House, to receive a copy of a press the last sessional period, and it assists release issued by the Opposition. That in the better management of the busi­ press release was notable for its inac­ ness of the House. In an atmosphere of curacy in suggesting that something like co-operation and sweetness and light, two and a half hours would be the sole there is no reason why other matters amount of time available for the Op­ should not be dealt with on Tuesdays, position to raise matters during this Wednesdays and Fridays; indeed, it is sessional period. Honourable members the Government's intention that the can assume that that has already been motion of want of confidence in the proved wrong because already this Government, of which notice was given House has had more than two and a yesterday by the Leader of the Opposi­ half hours of Opposition-initiated busi­ tion, should be taken after the suspen­ ness and is about to have an afternoon sion of the sitting for lunch today. The of Opposition-initiated matters today. reason is that to do it tomorrow, with The Sessional Order will allow, from limited hours of debate, would obviously time to time throughout this sessional produce a constrained debate. period, reasonable and sensible oppor- Session 1981-198 5770 Sessional Orders [ASSEMBLY tunities to be made available for a range hours than at night. I do not wish to of 'business, both Government-initiated say anything more about that at this and Opposition-initiated, and I am de­ time. lighted to try to faoilitate those arrange­ The proposed Sessional Order will ments. allow the orderly progress of business This Sessional Order worked well while still leaving opportunity for during the last sessional period. It did various parties to make arrangements not unnecessarily or improperly con­ for matters which might arise and might strain anybody from raising matters. need time and which might senSibly be The Opposition may continue to find it dealt with while still allowing Govern­ difficult to predict with any accuracy ment Business to have some priority on the length at which its members wish Tuesdays and Wednesdays and, if we to debate items on the Notice Paper, are silly enough to sit on Fridays, on and as members of the Opposition will Fridays as well. know it bas been difficult to predict I suggest that the last sessional period that. It has also been difficult at times was a better working sessional period for me, on the Government's behalf, to than some others and it became a better predict how many members of the working sessional period when this Government may make a contribution Sessional Order was introduced. That to a debate. Nonetheless, I can say is why the motion has been moved. that it has become quite easy for me, in the position I hold in relation to the Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ business of the House, to predict that tion) -I take up the last remark of the on occasions, particularly on occasions Minister. If the last sessional period after 11 p.m. when the Leader and became a better working sessional Deputy Leader of the Opposition might period, it was better only for the Gov­ be absent from the House, someone will ernment and only because the Govern­ stride over from the Opposition side of ment was able to stifle debate and to the House and say, "You know we have prevent the Opposition and the third another six speakers on this". When I party from raising motions of want of say that some understanding had been confidence, adjournment motions and reached that there would not be a substantive motions on any day other further six speakers on the subject I th~n a Thursday. That may have am told in fairly direct terms exactly suited the Government but it did not what those sorts of arrangements might necessarily suit the Parliament or the mean. people of Victoria. I therefore find it difficult to assure The Minister claims that the Sessional honourable members of what business Order will assist the better manage­ will be taken, in what order or how ment of the Parliament, but it will not long it will take or to make any firm do that because it is patently obvious arrangement for the management of the that, when an Opposition and a third business of the House. No one expects party are restricted or constrained in it to work like a machine, but it cer­ any . w~y in raising matters of urgent tainly should be able to be expected that publIc Importance, they have to direct we can make sensible working arrange­ their attention to other vehicles than ments operate in this Chamber. can be used to raise those matters. In the situation posed by the Minister the Mr Cain-Sit longer! other vehicles will be restricted to pro­ Mr MACLELLAN-The honourable posed I~gislation that will appear on member for Bundoora is obviously the N~tIce Paper. The Opposition will anticipating the debate of item No. 8 be obhged, as no doubt will the third listed on the Notice Paper, which I hope ~arty, to use th~ proposed legislation will be dealt with before lunch. That lIsted on the NotIce Paper to bring out item will fix the times of sittings on the matters it would normally bring Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and out by having proper recourse to the Fridays and the aim is to ensure that forms . ~f the !I0us~. In doing so the the sittings take place more in daylight OppOSItIOn wIll stIli be considerably 11 March 1981] Sessional Orders 5771 restricted because the Standing Orders If Grievance Days are subtracted from prohibit the use of debate on proposed the time left, there are few hours over legislation to discuss matters other the eight-week period for either the Op­ than those directly confined to that pro­ position or the third party to raise mat­ posed legislation. ters of public importance and to move motions for the adjournment of the It is ridiculous for a Government to House. This action can be described think it can walk into this Parliament only as restricting the rights of two and build a fence around itself while principal parties in the House, the Op­ still calling it a Parliament of the position and the third party, and the people. It is in fact a Parliament de­ rights of back-bench members of Parlia­ signed specifically for the Liberal Party. ment-even on the Government -side, Mr Reynolds-What utter rubbish! because there are occasions when back­ ward back-benchers of the Government Mr WILKES-What else is it? There party are prepared to get up on Griev­ are a whole range of important and ance Day to raise some matter of im­ urgent matters to be raised. One of portance in the electorates they repre­ the criteria for the moving of an ad­ sent. Back-bench members will be journment motion is that the first avail­ denied that opportunity if the Opposi­ able opportunity be taken. If the Gov­ tion chooses to use that time for debate ernment caused a calamity of some on important issues. magnitude that took place on a Friday, Saturday or Sunday, the matter could When one examines some of the im­ not be debated until the following portant matters still unresolved, one Thursday. That is absurd! Important can understand the implication of what events and problems occur because of the Government is attempting to do. the stupidity of the Government and Urgent matters will need to be debated its mismanagement, and Parliament and I can name at least half a dozen ought to be able to debate them at the that the Opposition believes should be first available opportunity. debated during this sessional period. There are four substantive motions on That had always been the case until the Notice Paper and with three days the Minister of Transport was appointed of grievance debates in the planned Leader of the House and decided to run sessional period, those four substantive Parliament to suit the Liberal Party, not motions will take up all the time avail­ to suit the people of Victoria. able to the Opposition between now and I remind the honourable gentleman the end of the sessional period. No mat­ that, because of some quirk in the calen­ ter what else happens, whether the dar, there will be three days for raising shadow Minister for the Arts wants to grievances during the planned eight­ raise the question of the Arts Centre weeks sessional period. On those three and its funding or whether the shadow days both the Opposition and the third Minister of Transport wants to raise party will have to make up their minds the stupidity of the Government in clos­ whether to forego the rights of back­ ing down railway lines, those shadow benchers for important substantive, no­ Ministers will be inhibited from doing confidence or adjournment motions. so. The rights of back-bench members of Parliament will be restricted. The Op­ It is no good the Leader of the House position-not the Government, which stating that Thursdays will be devoted issues the edict-will have to determine to Opposition or third-party business. whether to use the time allotted and rob Thursdays are short sitting days when back-benchers of their time to raise the House meets from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. matters of urgent public importance on approximately. That is not sufficient the three occasions on which the griev­ time for members of the Opposition or ance debate will occur. That is how the third party to properly carry out absurd the Government is-it has not their elected functions in the Chamber studied that issue. in the interests of the people of Victoria. 5772 Sessional Orders [ASSEMBLY The Government should stand con­ be serious problems in the Government's demned for trying to restrict the time ranks and, obviously, the Leader of the available for debate in Parliament to House and the Ministers are not pre­ this extent at this early stage. One can­ pared to have those problems debated not help wondering why, when the Gov­ in the Parliament. The effect of the ernment has no legislation of any im­ motion will be to deny honourable portance with which to fill in time, members their rightful say in the Parlia­ it should take this step. It intends sack­ ment. ing the Melbourne City Council, which will be the subject of a major debate. It is the duty of the Speaker and the The Government will have two thoughts Deputy Speaker to preserve the rights about how to undertake that exercise of minorities in the Parliament, be those before legislation is enacted. The Gov­ minorities a single independent honour­ ernment has a bit of proposed legislation able member, the National Party, or the concerning two Ministries and I have Opposition. Those rights should be pre­ read a press release from either a Min­ served. I am amazed that the Speaker ister or the Premier that several other has not taken more definite action with legislative measures will be introduced. a view to ensuring that the rights of honourable members are preserved to Nothing is more important than the a greater degree than would appear to rights of the Opposition and the third be the case. party in the Chamber and if Parliament is to function as it was intended that it On the Notice Paper there are three should under the Westminster system, original Bills carried over from the last the Opposition and the third party must sessional period and the only Bill with have their rights to raise matters of im­ any real substance is the Building Con­ portance. I strongly urge the Govern­ trol Bill, which will be withdrawn and ment to reject the proposal to build a presented in a new form at a later stage. fence around itself to protect itself from There are two small Bills and another attack. The Government is using a sys­ ten Bills on the Notice Paper and those tem outside the Parliament. The blue Bills will not engender any major book was an example yesterday when debate. the Premier and his Ministers floated the It is unbelievable that the Leader of proposition of "Jobs from Growth" out­ the House should endeavour to move side the Parliament so that the matter this type of motion so early in the ses­ could not be raised in the House. The sion. If the House was in the fifth week House then had the experience of the Premier attempting to quote from that of sitting one could understand such a book last night. Why was the matter motion being moved and most honour­ not introduced in the Parliament? able members would agree with such a motion. This session will not present That may be the way in which the to honourable members the opportun­ Government wants to operate, but it is ities afforded by the Address-in-Reply not the way in which the Opposition or the appropriation debates when hon­ wants to operate. The Opposition should ourable members can raise matters of be granted its rights to raise the matters major importance. Without such an it is here to raise. The Opposition wants opportunity it is obvious that this ses­ to be able to do that at the necessary time and to fit in with the requirements sion of the Parliament will be very dull and criteria set down by the Standing as far as General Business items are Orders of the Parliament. I urge the concerned. Government to reconsider its position. The National Party believes that the Mr WHITING (MiIdura)-The Leader motion, if passed, will prevent honour­ of the House has introduced a most able members from raising any sub­ unusual motion when one considers that stantive motion of General Business this is the first week of the autumn during this session and, for that reason, sessional period. Why has this motion the National Party will not support the been moved at this stage? There must motion. II March 1981] Sessional Orders 5773

Mr FORDHAM (Footscray)-It is ab­ bringing forward an argum~nt on the solutely impossible for the Opposition introduction of such a motIon on the to support a motion of this type be­ first day of a session. cause, firstly, it is a matter of principle The effect of such a motion, if passed, and, secondly, the Leader of the House will be to make the Standing Orders has failed lamentably to even try to put redundant. The Standing Orders are forward a reason why such an extra­ determined by the Standing Orders Com­ ordinary step should be taken. mittee and the House to set out the To introduce a motion of this sort on good management and opera~ion of .the the first day of the session is unprec~­ Legislative Assembly when In seSSIon. dented. Certainly, in my ten years In The idea of a Sessional Order is to this House and from the records that I regulate good management dur~ng cer­ have been able to examine, it is unpre­ tain times or parts of that sessIon, but cedented for the Government on the that is not the approach the Government first day of the session to give a notice has taken. of a motion to take effect the next day The Government has overridden the restricting the rights of honourable Standing Orders, especially those th~t members to raise matters under General relate to adjournment motIons. That IS Business within the House. made quite specific by the Draconian The Leader of the House is deter­ motion introduced for the first time to­ mined not to explain to the Parliament wards the end of last sessional period, why that step has been taken at this but is here introduced on the very first time. The Leader of the House is unable day of this sessional period. As a matter to draw on the procedures of any other of principle, the Opposition is opposed Parliament in Australia where a regula­ to restrictions of this type. However, in tion as Draconian as this has been in­ debate during other sessions when a troduced at such a stage of a session. Sessional Order has been. introduced to­ Other State Parliaments have Sessional wards the end of a session, the Opposi­ Orders and Standing Orders of one sort tion has attempted to co-operate and to or another, but not one of them is as ensure that the Government can com­ restrictive as this Sessional Order that plete its legislative business or have the the' Leader of the House is introducing opportunity to debate its legislative through the motion'. The honourable business. However, the motion is an gen tleman knows that this is the case entirely different matter altogether. and that is why he is unable to draw The motion is an attempt to put aside for support upon precedents and prac­ the past practice and attitude of the tices of other Parliaments in other parts House towards the way in which its of the world or in other States of Aus­ business should be regulated. The tralia. Leader of the House, in his somewhat The honourable members for Mitcham shamefaced attempt to support the mo­ and Bennettswood claim that the Gov­ tion, said that by arrangement an op­ ernment does not need to act upon pre­ portunity can be given for the Opposi­ cedent, and the honourable members are tion and for the third party to raise interjecting and saying that the Govern­ matters. That means only if It suits the ment is breaking new ground and being Government. The Opposition or the third party can raise a motion on Thurs­ creative. That is a somewhat new ap­ days. However, the Opposition has proach for a conservative Government granted the Government leave to pro­ such as this to take. However, that ap­ ceed with procedural matters that have proach will be destined to receive the suited the expedition of business before same fate as similar attempts by the the House but the Opposition has not Government over recent months and as had the same response on a matter as recently again as yesterday. I reiterate fundamental as a want-of-confidence that there is no precedent for a step of motion, when leave was refused to in­ this sort and the Leader of the House troduce the motion. That is not the ap­ should be ashamed of himself for not proach the Opposition wants to take to 5774 Sessional Orders [ASSEMBLY the operation of the Parliament, which would be restricted to eight weeks of should represent at least two points of sitting. It is obvious that the Parlia­ view. ment should meet more often both in the There are often three perspectives spring and autumn sessional periods and that are put forward in debate. If the I am sure that the Minister for Com­ motion is passed, that will represent one munity Welfare Services agreed with point of view that determines what hap­ that proposal when he was a back­ pens in the House. The Government bench member. He has perhaps changed will determine exactly what goes on for his mind now that he is a Minister in each minute of the day. This inevitably view of the excellent work being under­ supports the approach that is obviously taken by the shadow Minister. Minister understood by the media and, I believe, after Minister is fearful of the operation is the feeling in the community, that the of the Legislative Assembly and that is Government is under siege. A Govern­ where the push is being made for Parlia­ ment that fears debate and fears the ment not to meet more often. opportunity for the Opposition to under­ The Opposition continues to argue take its constitutional responsibility to that Parliament should meet more often its electors, to this Parliament and and that restrictions of this type should society is obviously under siege. It is not be placed on the opportunity for the not prepared to allow the Parliament to Opposition and the third party to intro­ fulfil its proper role and uses a duce matters for debate. As has been mechanism of deliberately and openly mentioned by the Deputy Leader stifling debate. of the National Party there are The other feeble point made by the already significant matters on the Leader of the Government in the House Notice Paper. The Deputy Leader was that the Government intends to of the National Party referred to extend the sitting hours of Parliament. the Notices of Motion but I draw the The Minister referred to a foreshadowed attention of the House to the private motion that the House will meet earlier members' Bills. On the Notice Paper on Wednesdays, at 11 a.m. rather than there are already 24 private members' later. I point out that that was a sug­ Bills. When, under the Sessional Order, gestion of the Opposition. Members of is it suggested that these Bills will be the Opposition, supported by the debated? The answer is, "Never". By National Party, have been arguing that interjection the Minister for Community if the House is to meet on Wednesdays Welfare Services, with a smile on his it is ridiculous to wait until 2. p.m. The face, says, "Early June". I am glad that hour of meeting should be 11 a.m. he is honest enough to state his point of Members of the Opposition also believe view. That is the attitude of the Gov­ the House should meet earlier on Tues­ ernment towards private members' Bills days and this has been suggested, but I being debated in the House. Important am advised that the Government does matters that have been introduced by not support such a move. Certainly the the Opposition and the third party on Ministers do not support it, and honour­ behalf of their constituents and the able members know who calls the tune. people who have elected them, are un­ able to be debated. The essence of the argument concerns the role of Parliament and what oppor­ The Opposition can in no way support tunities should be given for the Parlia­ the approach of the Government. This ment to undertake that role. Towards latest step is Draconian and should be the end of the last sessional period and deplored. I am sure the community real­ in discussions with the Leader of the izes that the Government does not want Government earlier this year I argued the Parliament to meet at all, if that can that the commencement date for the be avoided. Before the last State autumn sessional period should not be election a whole sessional period was 10 March but mid-February. However, cancelled and now an attempt is being the Government said that it did not made to restrict the autumn session. The want the sessional period to commence community wiU be aghast at the steps earlier and that the length of the session the Government has taken and I assure Mr Fordham 11 March 1981] Sessional Orders 5775 the House that electors in marginal three weeks. About 16 hours remain seats will be informed in detail of those to be shared by the members of this steps. Parliament. Mr CAIN (Bundoora)-I support the The other hours are shared. The stand taken by my colleagues on the Government, the Opposition and the Opposition side of the House against third party play a part in question time, the almost obscene proposition that is in the debate of the motion for the being debated. The motion concerns adjournment of the House and in the ordering the business of this House to grievance debate. The dispute is about serve the functions of the House. One's the remaining 16 hours or thereabouts approach to this measure depends on which must be shared between the what one regards as the functions of Government, the Opposition and the the House. I shall state what the National Party. Of those 16 hours, Opposition regards as the functions and about 4! or 5 hours on a Thursday are duties of Parliament. Firstly, it is the to be devoted to other than Government people's Parliament, not the Govern­ Business. The remaining 10 or 11 hours ment's Parliament or the Liberal Party's are for Government Business. That is Parliament. The Government came my rough arithmetic of the time allowed. after Parliament, not before it. It grew If the Government believes it needs out of the Parliament and it is respon­ 10 hours or more, let Parliament sit sible to it, at least in theory, in this longer. The 4 or 5 hours that the Gov­ State, and it ought to be accountable ernment is prepared to allow for the to it. It should reflect the society at Opposition and the National Party is large and it should be a forum for all not sufficient to enable those parties views in this State. to carry out their functions. If the Government needs more time, Parlia­ The principle that is being adopted ment should sit longer each day and today is not new. It has been agonized each week. The sessional periods over by Parliaments since Parliaments should start earlier in the year and end evolved 400 or 500 years ago. All that later, as the Deputy Leader of the has changed is the form and structure Opposition suggests. This matter con­ of the issue and the· dimension to which cerns the greed and desire to have the the Executive Government seeks to in­ lion's share of the hours of sitting. I terfere. In the sixteenth and seven­ repeat that this is not the Liberal Party's teenth centuries I suppose it was the Parliament. In fact, at the last election, Sovereign who sought to diminish, deni­ more people voted for the Labor Party grate and strangle the Parliament. In than for the Liberal Party. The Opposi­ more recent times the all-powerful tion claims at least equal time to put Executive Government has arisen which its views in this Parliament. determines everything and uses Par­ liament as its legislative instrument as Historically Parliament has been the and when it sees fit. That is the prin­ check on the Executive and it should ciple being discussed today. It is continue to be so. In 1979, of course, merely another version of it. the Victorian Parliament was closed down before the elections. Already the I shall briefly conduct an analysis of Government is running scared so far the Parliament's time for this sessional as the next election is concerned and period. I understand that it is pro­ it is frightened to allow -the Parliament posed to sit for about 21 to 22 hours to debate issues because it is frightened a week, without having regard to the of :what the Opposition and the late sittings. Of that time about three­ National Party will raise as the subject and-a-quarter hours a week will be of motions. devoted to questions and the debate of The Government is prepared to stifle the motion for the adjournment of the the legitimate voice of the Opposition House. The grievance debate will take and all sections of this Parliament to about one-and-one-third or one-and-a­ serve its own ends. It is not the first half hours each week if taken every Government to try it and I suppose it 5776 Sessional Orders [ASSEMBLY will not be the last. If the Government the only people who profit and benefit goes on in this way it will do so at its from those sorts of exercises. If the own peril because some people in Parliament accepts the proposals of the society believe quite firmly that the Par­ Government contained in the motion, it liamentary institution is obsolete. Such is taking a step down the road of the people believe Parliament is an instru­ people who say that Parliament is ment of the bourgeois establishment irrelevant and that they will find other and are prepared to use other methods means of voicing their concern and if they think they are justified. other means of expressing views on the If the Government continues in this matter. The House should reject the way the justification for turning away motion. from the Parliamentary system will Mr BIRRELL (Geelong West)-Time become stronger. The honourable mem­ and time again I have made remarks ber for Mitcham is scared because he similar to those I propose to make does not know what will happen and today. In many aspects I have seen knows that he may not be back. The the deterioration of the Parliament argument is academic so far as he is compared with the past two decades. I concerned. I am concerned about the point out that my own Liberal Party members of the House who will be members are at fault in this regard. I back-I am not concerned about the refer to the deterioration in the level honourable member for Mitcham be­ of attendance, which is most notice­ cause he will not be back. able on this side of the House. The When Parliament resumes after the Leader of the House ought to under­ voters go to the poll in 1982, the public take some activity at that level in will have elected a Parliament which another place. I do not refer to another it believes will carry out the functions place as honourable members know it, expected of a Parliament. That is what but rather to another place of meeting. honourable members are concerned At another level altogether, I also about and not merely what happens to notice that the general attitude which suit the short-term concerns of this has prevailed in the House has sadly Government, which is fighting to sur­ strayed from what it used to be. vive. The Opposition seeks to examine Yesterday was a typical example. At the wider question of the integrity of that level, I put most of the recrimina­ this institution. That is what is at stake tions on the other side of the House. when the Government seeks to stifle In that way I have evened out my and denigrate the Opposition and the comments. I shall refer to the points third party. presented by the honourable member Honourable members are witnessing for Bundoora. In the past twenty years this happening today. If the Parliament -deterioration has been gradually continues in this fashion and allows speeded up, particularly in the last the Government to diminish the role of three or four years-I have seen the Parliament because it controls the num­ gradual loss of control of the House bers, it does so at its own peril. The and the passing of it from the Govern­ Government should not be surprised ment to the Opposition. It is as simple and should not say what a terrible as that. thing it is when more people take to I know that the Oppoistion is using the streets or find other ways to pro­ the legalities of the House and, at that tes't, which they regard as more effec­ level, I suppose one cannot blame it tive and legitimate. That is what this for doing so. However, the Government Government and its nervous, weak­ should not have to face criticism that kneed back-bench members are allow­ honourable members will be meeting ing to occur. The back bench will allow here at all hours at the end of this the Parliament to be diminished and sessional period when in fact a review give those who would denigrate and of Hansard shows that it is the pull down the Parliamentary system Opposition that is claiming two-thirds an opportunity of doing so. Those are of the meeting time of the House. One Mr Cain 11 March 1981] Sessional Orders 5777 cannot put those two facts together to between the Leader of the House for make a case against the Government the benefit of the Parliament not for and Parlia~ent. After all the Govern­ the benefit-- ment eventually has to say, "This far Mr Cathie-For the benefit of the and no further". That is what the Min­ Government side of the House only. ister has done. Mr BIRRELL-I reject that because Mr Cathie-At the beginning of the the terms are too generous not to be sessional period, not the end! for the whole of the House. What I have said is the truth. I support the Mr BIRRELL-This time it has actions of the Leader of the House and happened at the beginning of the I am sure the Parliament will benefit sessional period. It happened too late and return to the sort of system which, towards the end of the last sessional until two or three years ago, was con­ period. Everything that the Leader of sidered the norm. the House has done since he has under­ taken that task has always had my full Mr ROPER (Brunswick)-Honour­ support. I cannot say, without consult­ able members have just heard the ing a large cross-section of my own dying gasp of an honourable member party whether that 'would apply to all who is on his way out and who knows hono~rable members on this side of the full well that the Government will go House. However, I have a vague feeling out with him. If one glances along the that the Minister has their support back bench and the front bench, one without exception. I believe this be­ realizes that when they are translated cause I hear the general supportive to this side of the House, many gaps remarks loosely given around the will be evident after May next year or place, during ,the time I spend in my whenever the State determines to call seat. I gather that the honourable an election. gentleman has the support of the party. Let me examine the motion. I suggest that it is the "Mclnnes" motion, the The Leader of the House is not "Gippsland South" motion. The motion totally denying the operation of the would not have been introduced if that normal Parliamentary system. As I go honourable member had not ratted on around the continent I at various times his party and left the National Party. have called on all Parliaments of the If the honourable member for Gipps­ nation except that of the Northern land South had stayed in the political Territ~ry. I must admit that my time party which he was elected to repre­ in the Northern Territory was spent sent, this motion would not now be on more interesting matters. However, before the Parliament. I have spent considerable time in the other Australian States and Canberra Mr MacleUan-The Natiopal Party observing what happens. As Parlia­ voted for it during the last sessional mentarians, the members of those other period. Parliaments would never put up with the system that has been operating in Mr ROPER-The National Party may Victoria over the past two or three have voted for it during the last ses­ years. The trouble is that by slow sional period but it was at the end degrees the Government has lost the of the session. The National Party has control of this place; control which it made its position clear today and if the Minister of Transport did not under­ must always have. The current rules stand what the Deputy Leader of the that honourable members are trying to National Party was stating, then the propagate today are fair, in my humble honourable gentleman needs a few les­ assertion. The Leader of the House has sons in being something other than a gone so far as to guarantee that there "bundle of goodness". The National will be extra time, plus Thursdays, for Party made it clear that it did not sup­ at least a modicum of some hours' port the introduction of this motion at debate on other days. This is a bundle this time, particularly when there is no of goodness that has been produced justification for it. Its introduction 5778 Sessional Orders [ASSEMBLY shows how a change of allegiance­ members were elected to this place. for whatever the transfer fee payable Most workers in the community cannot to the honourable member for Gipps­ have all school holidays at home, as land South-can make a difference to honourable members always do. If it is the Parliament because no longer is the really a problem of honourable mem­ Parliament that Parliament which was bers being home for school holidays, elected two years ago. It is that Par­ they why cannot the Parliament meet liament which was elected with one after the school holidays have finished. additional Government supporter who Why cannot the Parliament meet in has been, in the view of the Opposi­ Mayor June? tion, improperly placed on the Govern­ Mr B. J. Evans-You are home every ment side of the ledger. night, do not forget that. What the Government has done one way or another by accepting the hon­ Mr ROPER-If the Parliament met ourable member for Glppsland South more regularly during the year and into its ranks is to ensure that it has had longer sessions or there was a situ­ the numbers to support this type of ation where there were three sessions motion, a motion which it would not with maybe a mid-winter session if re­ otherwise have had the numbers to quired, the Parliament would not have pass. the situation which exists on Thurs­ day nights when, if we meet, country Also, in the past the Government members cannot go home. Most other has not been prepared to allow the Par­ Parliaments in Australia order their liament to work properly. The Leader affairs, as the New South Wales Par­ of the Opposition, the Deputy Leader liament does, so that more often than of the Opposition and the honourable not honourable members are available member for Bundoora have made it in their electorates on the Friday, plain that the Parliament ought to meet which of course does not always hap­ more often than it does. The Parliament pen here. I can understand the prob­ has just had a twelve-week break and lems confronting the honourable mem­ as one of my colleagues in another ber for Gippsland East if the Parlia­ place states, this is the only job where ment meets on Thursday nights as that one receives long service leave twice would effectively prevent him from a year because being a member of going home and he would not return this Parliament, this is what happens. to his electorate until the Friday and Mr B. J. Evans-I can understand in my view that is unreasonable. If the that of a member of another place but Parliament met more regularly and not here. operated under a more orderly system Mr ROPER-In fact last year the of dealing with Government business, Legislative Council met for one week it would not have a system of having longer than the Legislative Assembly, to deal with Government legislation even though it does not always meet towards the end of every session, and as regularly as the Legislative Assem­ then even the honourable member for bly early in the sessional period. Gippsland East might find he would be As I stated, honourable members able to spend more time in his elec­ have just had twelve weeks away from torate or more time on other things Parliament and there is absolutely no that he wants to do. However, the first reason why this Parliament, like the responsibility of honourable members other Parliaments in Australia, could is to be here. not have met in February. There is no In my own area of responsibility as reason why the Parliament cannot meet a shadow Minister, various items of after the first week in May. It is always legislation have been promised to be nice, particularly if one is a "bundle introduced over the past twelve months. of goodness" as honourable members I t is twelve months since the then Act­ have been told the Minister of Trans­ ing Premier stated that he was going port is, to spend school holidays at to come down like a ton of bricks on home, but that is not why honourable drug pushers. The Parliament has still 11 March 1981] Sessional Orders 5779 not seen that legislation although it Any "by leave" motion that is an might ~ee it towards the end of this embarrassment to the Government sessional period and presumably a would not get into the Parliament. As difficult and complex piece of legisla­ was pointed out before, under the "by tiun would have to be rushed through leave" provisions, yesterday the Gov­ the Parliament using the provisions of ernment chose not to take on the Op­ this motion. position there and then. Of course, it The Government has been prepared is somehow a concession for the Min­ to legislate in other areas of activity, ister of Transport, this "bundle of but again, similarly with the past goodness", to argue to bring on the couple of sessions, it has not got its want-of-confidence motion today. In legislation ready. Really that is the answer to the Minister of Transport, problem confronting the Parliament the Leader of the Opposition knows the rather than the problem suggested by reason why the want of confidence mo­ the honourable member for Geelong tion is being debated, but certainly the West. That honourable member sug­ motion should not be left to languish gested that it was the Opposition that on the Notice Paper because it is the had changed but I suggest that what most important motion that can be has changed more than anything else moved in the House. It should be de­ during the past two sessional periods is bated and decided upon as soon as that most items of Government legis­ possible and to suggest, as the Minister lation have not been ready until the of Transport did, that somehow or other last stages of the sessional period. I the Government is being good in allow­ accept that the Government needs to ing it to be considered today, is a load accept demonstrable community atti­ of rubbish and outside the traditions tudes and concerns and follow the opin­ of this place because the former Prem­ ions expressed in the Liberal Party ier took these motions straight on. room. I can understand some of the That honourable gentleman had some­ problems, but the Government has an what more confidence in his Govern­ obligation, if it wants to introduce its ment than the present Premier has in legislation, to follow the lead given by his Government because he does not other Parliaments in Australia. In those know from early morning to late after­ Parliaments if the legislation is not noon what he has to announce to the ready in time, and unless it is extremely press. urgent legislation, the Government does not allow it to be introduced. That pro­ The Opposition strongly opposes the cedure provides a discipline on Minis­ motion. It would not be before the Par­ ters and their Bill committees. If the liament but for the actions of the hon­ legislation is not ready it does not get ourable member for Gippsland South. introduced, so again the other Parlia­ Honourable members should remember ments have a far more orderly system that it was the honourable member for than we have in this Parliament. Gi'ppsland South who ratted on his own To suggest as the Minister of Trans­ party that has caused a change in the port and the honourable member for way in which the Parliament operates. Geelong West did that somehow or Mr WILTON (Broadmeadows)-I other the Opposition will have motions debated "by leave" is, as the Minister support the arguments put forward by knows, a load of rubbish. I suppose if the Leader of the Opposition, the De­ I moved a motion that the House was puty Leader of the Opposition and the of the view that the Minister of Health honourable members for Brunswick and was doing an excellent job, then leave Bundoora. It is a tragedy to see the would be granted, but it would be per­ Government running for cover so petrating a fraud on the activities of the quickly and being so callous and politi­ House to suggest such a motion should cal over this issue and using its num­ be debated because the Minister of bers to steam roll through the Parlia­ Health is certainly not doing a good ment a motion which is really striking job. at the very heart of democratic process 5780 Sessional Orders [ASSEMBLY and Parliamentary procedure under the Development has been sitting at a Westminster system as honourable desk with a telephone at his elbow, members know it. and by full page public advertisements I wish to make a comparison with in t~e daily media ~as invited people what has happened in my time as a to rmg up and "dob m" public servants. member of this Parliament. When Sir When speaking on the subject he made Henry Bolte was Premier and the late it known publicly that if people rang Sir Arthur Ryla.h was Deputy Premier, up and "dobbed in" a public servant one of the thIngs those honourable over some matter on which they had a gentlemen consistently adhered to and grievance, the Minister would take upheld was the rights of the minority action to get rid of that public servant. groups in the Parliament to exercise If the Minister were sincere about their rights in bringing forward before this attempt to do something with a the Parliament matters of public con­ tired, jaded Cabinet which has lost cern and they, as the two leading mem­ control of the situation and seems to bers of the Government, were prepared have no motivation or idea of where to take the challenge on the floor of it is going politically, one would as­ the Parliament and debate questions as sume that the Government would be they came forward. prepared to debate in Parliament the They both consistently refused to have issues which the Opposition has indi­ anything to do with Sessional Orders. cated it believes should be debated On the occasions when this question by Parliament. Instead of that. it ran was raised, those people, who were away from the challenge. the two major principals in the Govern­ The various spokesmen for the Labor ment, strongly and publicly made Party, through press releases, have known their views on the question of already made known to the' people of a Government seeking refuge behind Victoria the sorts of issues that the Sessional Orders to bring into exist­ Parliament should be debating. The ence a permanent gag-and that is honourable member for Knox has on what Sessional Orders are-for the several occasions made abundantly rest of this sessional period, to apply clear to the Minister of Transport that on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays one of the most serious matters con­ if the House sits on that day. ' fronting the people of Victoria is the One would have thought the Gov­ public transport system. One has only ernment would have had sufficient con­ to read the latest annual report of the fidence in its own capacity to handle VicRail board to see how concerned anything that the Opposition or the that authority is over the current situ­ National Party may bring forward in ation. However, because the answers Parliament to have the issue debated lie in the political arena and it is there on the floor of Parliament and to justi­ that the decisions on these issues have fy its actions to the people of Victoria. to be made, it becomes apparent that But apparently the Government has the Parliament of Victoria is not going deteriorated in political and moral fibre to be allowed to play its true role in over recent years to the point where it debating these issues. is now just a group of desperate people The Government is going to lock this hanging on and using every device place up on three days a week and available to it to restrict the debate turn it into a talking shop, and we are in Parliament to the narrow level of going to see the various Ministers com­ the issues which the Government ing here as "Henry Have-a-chats" and wishes to bring forward and control. indulging in a bit of by-play through Various decisions have been made their second-reading speeches. In that by the Government outside Parliament way they hope to avoid the question­ to try to revamp the Ministry. The ing and probing of the Opposition in latest exercise is that the Government those vital areas of development within has got into the talk-back programme the State, in the business, commercial area. The new Minister for Economic and industrial fields. Mr Wilton 11 March 1981] Sessional Orders 5781

When one goes around the State Opposition and the National Party will and talks to people who are vitally be able to debate matters on only one engaged in industrial and commercial day a week for the rest of the session­ development, one hears comments such al period, which I understand will not as, "What is the Government all go for long, anyway; it has already about? It has created a new Minister been indicated that the Government's and put him in an office with a tele­ programme is designed to conclude on phone at his elbow and expects us to 7 May. That is an absolute disgrace ring up and tell him what is wrong." and a discredit to the Government. Everybody knows what is wrong; we I can only repeat that Sir Henry are the most overtaxed State in the Bolte and Sir Arthur Rylah were never Commonwealth, with a tax on our afraid to stand up in Parliament and fuel, electricity, gas, legal instruments justify their actions at any time, and and land transactions. That is the real for those reasons they would never problem that is confronting commerce have a bar of Sessional Orders. They and industry today. upheld the basic principle that the Gov­ When the Minister for Employment ernment freely acknowledged that it and Training attempted at question had a responsibility to answer any time today to handle the situation in charges that would be levelled at it by the House, he found himself in the other members or by minority groups ridiculous position of explaining that in Parliament. the Commonwealth Government is They never walked away from that implementing a programme to substan­ but, unfortunately. in recent years there tiaIly increase the number of appren­ has been a deterioration of the political tices in the various industries, but in­ morals of the Government, and what the dustry leaders know that the State is Government is now doing is making the not going to be able to teach the word "liberal" a dirty word. apprentices because there are not enough trade teachers. That is one Mr CRABB (Knox)-Where has the area which is vital to the development Minister gone? The Minister who moved of industry and commerce in Victoria. the motion is not in the House. It is It has become so critical that this remarkable; there are a couple of morning one of the principals of a thousand people outside protesting major teaching college in Victoria held about strikes. The members of the Gov­ a press conference which was attended ernment have been on strike for the by prominent members of industry and past ten years. The people outside have commerce. come to the right place to protest. The DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr A. T. This motion is a continuing part of Evans)-Order! I have been listening the whittling away of the relevance of carefully to the honourable member for this place. It is only one of a whole lot some time. He is discussing various of things that have been happening in matters and is gradually getting far­ recent years that constitute an abuse ther and farther away from the matter of the Westminster system of demo­ before the Chair. cracy. Mr WILTON-Mr Deputy Speaker, I The Government takes action and appreciate your comments and thank reverses the mandate on which it was you for your guidance, but I shall try elected. Ministers refuse to make Min­ to justify my actions by saying that isterial statements when they ought to; I wanted to highlight to the House the the Government refuses to debate want­ whole range of issues that should be of-confidence motions when they are debated in Parliament this sessional moved; Ministers refuse to be present period but which will not be debated during the debate on the motion because the Government has run for for the adjournment of the sitting; cover on the second day of sitting in Ministers filibuster their way through the autumn sessional period by bring­ question time to protect their weaker ing in what is virtually a permanent colleagues; and a Minister has treated gag on debate in Parliament. The this Parliament with contempt. It would 5782 Sessional Orders [ASSEMBLY not be so bad if something were hap­ on week days. That sort of announce­ pening in the party room which was ment ought not to be made on the for democracy, but Government mem­ front page of the Herald but in a Mi'n­ bers are so embroiled in their squallid isterial statement in this place, so that squ.abbles about homosexuality and it can be debated by members of this gambling that they have not time to House. For the back bench of the Lib­ look at anything else, which is why eral Party to tolerate that sort of take­ legislation in this State-that we have over of Government is an outrage. been waiting for for decades-still has not arrived. The House divided on the motion (the Hon. S. J. Plowman in the chair). Why does the Government want to gag the Opposition? Why does the Gov­ ernment want to keep all its time to Ayes.. 40 itself? The Opposition knows why-so Noes.. 39 that Ministers, the intellectual pigmies of the front bench, can one by one Majority for the motion. . 1 parrot off the second-reading speeches, which have been written for them by AYES some second-rate bureaucrat, without Mr Austin Mr McInnes Mr Balfour Mr McKellar even understanding what is in the Bills. Mr Birrell Mr Mackinnon Do the back-benchers, who are not even Mr Brown Mr Maclellan here, understand the legislation that Mr Burgin Mrs Pa,trick has come before us? Of course they do Mrs Chambers Mr Ramsay Mr Coleman Mr Reynolds not. How many times have Bills been Mr Collins Mr Richardson brought in again and again? In the last Mr Crellin Mr Skeggs session there was a wrong amount in Mr Oixon Mr Smith a Bill; a nought was left off a figure of Mr Ounstan (South Barwon) Mr Ebery Mr Smith $10 million. . Mr Evans ( Warrnambool) The fact is, the back bench of the (Ballarat North) Mr Tanner Mr Hamer Mr Templeton Liberal Party is meant to play the role Mr Hayes Mr Thompson uf watchdog, just as the Opposition and Mr Jona Mr Weideman the third party does, but they do not Mr Kennett Mr Williams do it. They are the most toothless old Mr Lacy Mr Wood Mr Lieberman Tellers: dogs that anyone has ever seen. How Mr McCance Mr Cox much criticism does one ever find com­ Mr McClure Mr McArthur ing from the back bench of the Liberal Party to the measures that come before NOES the House? It seems only to manifest Mr Amos Mr Mathews itself when it comes to homosexuality Mr Cain Mr Miller and casinos. Mr Cathie Mr Remington Or Coghill Mr Roper The introduction of the motion at this Mr Crabb Mr Ross-Edwards stage of the sessional period is an in­ Mr Culpin Mr Sidiropoulos Mr Edmunds Mr Simmonds dication of the contempt in which the Mr Emst Mr Simpson Government holds Parliament. The Mr Evans Mr Spyker Executive treats Parliament as some (Gippsland East) Mr Stirling ritual that it is necessary for it to go Mr Fogarty Mrs Toner Mr Fordham Mr Trewin through in order to have the patronage Mr Gavin Mr Trezise of office. Mr Ginifer Or Vaughan Mr Hann Mr Whiting The Minister of Transport, more than Mr Hockley Mr Wilkes anyone else, epitomizes that view. To­ Mr Jasper Mr Wilton day, on the front page of the Herald Mr Jolly Mr King Tellers: newspaper, there is an announcement Mr Kirkwood Mr Rowe that within a matter of days a decision Mr McGrath Mr Walsh will be taken to close down suburban trains completely on a Sunday, to close The sitting was suspended at 1.2 p.m. down trains on a Saturday evening and until 2.3 p.m. Mr Crabb 11 March 1981] State Electricity Commission (Amendment) Bill (No. 2) 5783

FIREARMS (SHOOTERS' LICENCES) bring in a Bill to amend the State BILL Electricity Commission Act 1958 and For Mr THOMPSON (Treasurer), Mr for other purposes. Hamer (Premier) moved for leave to The motion was agreed to. bring in a Bill to amend Part III and Part IV of the Firearms Act 1958. The Bill was brought in and read a first time. The motion was agreed to. The Bill was brought in and read a SESSIONAL ORDERS first time. Mr MACLELLAN (Minister of Trans­ LOCAL GOVERNMENT (CITY OF port) -I move: MELBOURNE) BILL That Part I of the resolution adopted on 9 September 1980 fixing Sessional Orders be Mr HAMER (Premier) moved for read and rescinded and the following Sessional leave to bring in a Bill to authorize Order be adopted: the appointment of commissioners to 1. Unless otherwise ordered, the House shall administer the City of Melbourne for meet on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and a limited period, to remove the council Thursdays. Mr Speaker to take the Chair of that city from office and for other at 4 p.rn., 11 a.rn. and 11 a.rn. respectively. purposes. This accommodates an extension of the The motion was agreed to. sittings of Parliament during daylight hours rather than possum hours. It is The Bill was brought in and read generally agreed that it is a sensible a first time. arrangement to put to the House. LAND (AMENDMENT) BILL (No. 2) Mr FORDHAM (Footscray)-It ought Mr WOOD (Minister of Public Works) to be put on record that this motion. moved for leave to bring in a Bill to arose from discussions involving the amend the Land Act 1958, to make Minister of Transport, the honourable provision for the payment of allow­ member for Mildura and me in a spirit ances and travelling expenses to cer­ of co-operation and in an endeavour to tain members of local land advisory ensure that the House, at least in part, committees to make provision for cer­ operates under proper hours in accord­ tain certifica tes of the Secretary for ance with the pressure of work ex­ Lands to be admissible in evidence, to perienced by all honourable members. provide for the surrender of certain I only hope the same spirit of co­ lands, and for other purposes. operation will be evidenced later in the sessional period. It has not been The motion was agreed to. apparent in earlier Sessional Orders The Bill was brought in and read a introduced today. However, the Opposi­ first time. tion reiterates its willingness to discuss matters of this sort with the Govern­ INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS BILL ment. Mr RAMSA Y (Minister of Labour The Opposition is delighted that the and Industry) moved for leave to bring Government has acceded to its sugges­ in a Bill to amend the Industrial Rela­ tion that the House should sit earlier tions Act 1979 and the Second on Wednesdays and hopes the same will Schedule to the Superannuation Act happen on Tuesdays in the near future. 1958. The motion was agreed to. The motion was agreed to. The Bill was brought in and read a HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPALS SALARY first time. DETERMINATION Mr LACY (Minister of Educational STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION Services) -In order to ensure that full (AMENDMENT) BILL (No. 2) information is available to honourable Mr LIEBERMAN (Minister for Min­ members in connection with the debate erals and Energy) moved for leave to on the subject of Orders of the Day, 5784 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY Government Business, No. 1 which has WANT OF CONFIDENCE IN been deferred until later this day, by GOVERNMENT leave, I move: Mr WILKES (Leader of the Opposi­ That there be laid upon the table of the tion) -I move: House a file containing copies of the following That the Government no longer possesses documents, viz.: the confidence of this House. (i) Decision of Victorian Teachers Tribunal dated 5 February 1981, including Chairman'S Moving a want-of-confidence motion is statement of dissent; the strongest possible action that an (ii) Letter Minister of Education to Tribunal Opposition can take against the Govern­ dated 6 February 1981; ment in this House. It does not take it (Hi) Letter Minister of Education to Presi­ lightly, nor should the Government. In dent of Victorian High Schools Principals Asso­ fact, it is only the third occasion in the ciation dated 6 February 1981; past eight or nine years that such a (iv) Letter Tribunal to Minister dated 12 motion has been moved in this Chamber. February 1981; It should not be taken that there was not (v) Letter Minister to Tribunal dated 12 good reason to move such a motion in February 1981; between that time but the fact that an (vi) Press Statement Minister of Education dated 12 February 1981; Opposition is inhibited by the Standing (vii) Letter Tribunal to Minister dated 16 Orders from taking such an action re­ February 1981; flects on the stupidity of the way the (viii) Application by Victorian High School Standing Orders prevent an Opposition Principals Association for salary increase in­ expressing its opinion in this Parliament corporating supplementary submission; and at the actions of the Government. (ix) Transcript of evidence. In the past it has been noticeable Copies of these documents, with tire excep­ that the Legislative Council has been tion of the transcript of evidence, have been directed not to sit until a motion of this . supplied to the representatives of the other parties in the House. nature has been resolved. Honourable members do not have to worry about Mr FORDHAM (Footscray)-The that today. Opposition is pleased tpat the Govern­ ment has agreed to supply these docu­ The motion reflects the views of big ments which are necessary for proper business, of small business and of the debate later this day, or more likely man in the street on the way in which tomorrow, on a disallowance proposal this Government has failed to manage that the Government is putting before the affairs of the State. At the last the Legislative Assembly. election, held in 1979, the Victorian public gave this Government a warning. I suggested to the Minister of Educa­ The Government almost lost office. Only tional Services that such documents be 1000 votes saved it from losing office. made available and I understand that he intended to make them available Following that warning, one would anyway. have expected that the Government I make it clear that the Opposition would have taken immediate steps to does not regard these documents as correct the shambles that exists in Vic­ the only relevant documents that ought toria today. But that has not been the to be made available. I will certainly be case. For instance, within one month quoting from, and be making available of the election the Government was during debate, other documents that are forced to order a Royal Commission into relevant to this debate and which I con­ yet more land deals. Honourable mem­ sider essential to a proper understanding bers will remember they are the same by all members of the House. land deals that the Premier assured the pu~li~ did not need any investigation. The motion was agreed to. WIthm one month, the Premier had con­ Mr LACY (Minister of Educational firmed that the Cabinet had decided Services) presented the documents in prior to the election to refuse the Oppo­ compliance with the foregoing order. sition access to those Housing Commis­ It was ordered that the documents be sion files; files which, of course, would laid on the table. have revealed that the Premier had 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5785 deliberately deceived the public about the Government's Federal colleagues, the land deals during the election cam­ Victoria is attracted to only 12 per cent paign. There will be ample opportunity of the planned manufacturing invest­ to debate the land deals during the next ment. That total is less than Western sessional period. I do not doubt that Australia, Queensland and New South the Premier does not relish that debate. Wales. Today, we want to debate the Govern­ There are more facts that honourable ment's failure to stop Victoria sliding members ought to examine. Between into second-rate status. There are five 1979 and 1980 Victoria became the features of Victoria's economic crisis bankruptcy State of Australia. I should that we ought to look into-five funda­ like to hear from the Premier on that mental features which make it clear that subject. In that period bankruptcies in­ this Government should no longer pos­ creased by 62 per cent----double the level sess the confidence of this House. for Australia and five times the level for The first is the fact that the Victorian New South Wales. The same picture economy is in the middle of the worst emerges when one examines the hous­ recession since the depression. That is ing industry. Bankruptcies in the Vic­ undeniable. The second is the fact that torian building and construction indus­ Victoria's employment is deteriorating try during 1979-80 increased by three while Australia's unemployment rate is times the national figure, and the reason improving. The third is the fact that for that is quite clear. In Australia, be­ Victoria's chances of economic recovery tween 1979 and 1980, the number of are being jeopardized by incompetent new dwellings completed increased by energy planning. The fourth is the fact 10 per cent; in Victoria they decreased that Victoria's public transport system by almost 3 ·6 per cent. That is the com­ is grinding to a halt-another day gone parison the Premier has to make and and no trains on a Sunday. The fifth is the comparison he has to understand. the fact that the Government is in­ In the same period the number of capable of making decisions and sticking dwellings under construction in Aus­ to them. tralia rose by 4 per cent, but in Victoria Taken together those features repre­ they fell by 10 per cent. Other eco­ sent a catalogue of failure probably nomic indicators show exactly the never before experienced in the history same situation. For instance, new of a Victorian Government this century. motor vehicle registrations, which were I refer to some of the facts about mentioned by the Deputy Premier the economy. In December 1980 the last night fell in Victoria between 1979 Federal Minister for Industry and Com­ and 1980 by 6 per cent, compared with merce released a list of construction a national Increase. projects committed and planned for Aus­ tralia. Of the major mining and manu­ I seek the leave of the House to in­ facturing developments, valued at $5 corporate in Hansard a table containing million or more, 306 projects worth all the details of the economic decline $33·4 billion for the whole of Australia, and the difference in economic perform­ some 22 per cent of the total was plan­ ance between Victoria, New South ned for New South Wales and only 8 per Wales and Australia as a whole. I have cent was going to Victoria-a meagre provided the Chair with a copy of the $3·8 billion. table and will provide the Premier with a copy. I do not wish to go into detail, Analysis of the Federal Government as the table is self-explanatory. It list shows that Victorians will host only shows a comparison over the period of 6·6 per cent of the mining investment, a year with columns headed "Australia", a total lower than every other State "N.S.W." and "Victoria". It is easy to except Tasmania. It might be argued see the state of the economy on a broad that the real measure of strength of the basis and how the Victorian economy Victorian economy is the health of the compares with the figures for Australia manufacturing sector and perhaps not as a whole, New South Wales, includ­ the mining industry. But according to ing the Australian Capital Territory, and 5786 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY Victoria. The sources for the statistics The DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr A. T. are the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Evans)-Order! I have examined the the Department of Business and Con­ sumer Affairs, ADAPS Ltd, which pro­ document submitted by the Leader of vided the vehicle statistics, and the the Opposition and it is acceptable for Housing Industry Association. The table incorporation in Hansard. will be elaborated on by other members of the Opposition during the course of Leave was granted, and the table was the debate. as fOllows:

STATE OF THE VICTORIAN ECONOMY March 1981 ANNUAL PERCENTAGE CHANGES New South Economic lnd.icator Unit Year ended Australia Wales Victoria Employed Persons .. Number .. 31 December .. + 2·7 + 2·5 + 1·8 Unemployed Persons " Number .. 31 January .. - 2·3 - 3·1 + 2·3 Job Vacancies .. .. Number .. 30 November 0 + 6·1 - 4·5 Overtime rrr Employee . . .. Hours 31 December .. 0 + 7·2 - 7·9 Total Ban ruptcies " Number .. 30 June +29·1 +12·2· +61·1 Unpaid Bankruptcy Debts .. Dollars 30 June + 8·2 -37·3· +93·6 Dwellings Commenced .. .. Number .. 30 June +11·7 +20·6 + 1·2 Dwellings Completed .. " Number .. 30 June +10·4 +20·4 - 3·6 Dwellings Under Construction " Number .. 30 June + 3·9 +19·2 - 9·8 Dwellings Approved .. Number .. 31 December .. +13·7 +25·4 + 1·6 Dwellings Financed .. Number .. 31 December .. -7·1 + 8·8 -12·5 House Building Finns .. Number .. 31 December .. + 3·8 +41·8 + 0·8 Buildin, and Construction Bank- ruptCies ...... Number .. 30 June +24·3 - 6·3· +62·9 Retail Sales . . . . Dollars 30 September .. +12·6 +13·4 +11·6 New Passenger Vehicle Registrations Number .. 31 December .. - 1·6 + 0·2 - 7·5 New Commercial Vehicle Registra- Number .. 31 December .. + 7·9 +10·9 + 1·3 tions • Includes A.C.T. Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics, Dept. of Business and Consumer Affairs, -- ADAPS Limited, Housing Industry Association

Mr WILKES-To a certain extent, the of the next few years, they will not economic problems of our State are benefit the vast majority of Victorians, produced by complex historical and who need jobs in labour-intensive indus­ structural factors, but the Government tries now. That is what the Court has has not only failed to combat those overlooked in its planning for Victoria'S structural problems, it has not even future. recognized that they exist. While it should have been establishing the social I now turn to the indicators relating and economic planning processes neces­ to unemployment. The latest figures sary to study and combat the problems, released by the Australian Bureau of it has just let the State drift further Statistics relate to January 1981 and and further down the economic drain. they show that over the year the num­ It has paid no attention to the major ber of people looking for work in Aus­ problems. tralia fell by 2·3 per cent, but in Vic­ To successfully combat these prob­ toria the number increased by 2·3 per lems there must be concerned and con­ cent. The Victorian trend was the direct sidered economic and social planning opposite of the trend for the whole of on a regional level and on a State-wide Australia. level. While some heavily subsidized capital-intensive multi-national projects Mr Thompson-Victoria has the may get under way during the course lowest unemployment rate in Australia! 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5787 Mr WILKES-Clearly, the Deputy nearer o· 8 cents per kilowatt hour, yet Premier does not understand the trend. the Premier says that he is not giving I invite him to examine the figures. cheap electricity to Alcoa. The Victorian Employment Committee On 30 April last year, the Labor Party and the Australian Bureau of Statistics released an economic assessment of the have both confirmed that the real num­ Portland aluminium smelter, which ber is double the survey figure, which showed that all other State Electricity would mean that the true number of Commission customers in Victoria unemployed Victorians in January 1981 would subsidize Alcoa's electricity to was approximately 216000. The number the tune of $1000 million over the next of unemployed Victorians would have 30 years. In December 1980 the Centre been much higher, except that 21 000 for Environmental Studies of the Uni­ more people left the State during the versity of Melbourne published a dis­ year than arrived in it. Those people cussion paper on aluminium smeltering, are moving out of the State for a variety entitled Alcoa and Its Implications. That of reasons, not the least of which is paper showed that, due to the delays the failure of the Government properly in bringing the coal-fired Loy Yang to manage the economy. They are power station into operation, because voting with their feet and showing little of the failure of the Government and the confidence in the Government. They State Electricity Commission properly are taking themselves, their skills and to manage the affairs of Loy Yang, the their investments to other States where use of solely gas-fired electricity for they can be put to better use, such as Portland would cost $102·7 million. New South Wales and Western Aus­ tralia. On 10 February this year an inde­ pendent expert economist, Dr Peter I believe everybody agrees that one Swan of the Australian National Univer­ of the keys to correcting this situation sity, published his calculations, which is the use to which we put our showed that the cross-subsidy to be paid energy supplies. A major factor in our by all other Victorian electricity con­ future prosperity will no doubt be the sumers would be $84 million a year way in which we plan to use the com­ during stage 4 of the Alcoa project. parative advantage we gain from the Again, on 1 March, the National Times cheap energy supplies we have within revealed that the Federal Treasury had the boundaries of Victoria. Let us look criticized the deal as being excessively at the facts once more. We need proper generous. Since then, of course, every­ resources management and efficient one is aware of what Mr Stone said to energy administration, but we have the Senate Select Committee and the neither of those vitally important facets way in w'hich Mr Howard and Mr Fraser at present. What do we have? Already three studies have shown that the reacted to the evidence Mr Stone gave Government is squandering those re­ before that committee. sources by selling off cheap electricity Coal to oil developments in the La­ to Alcoa, but that is not recognized by trobe Valley are unplanned and unco­ the Premier or by the Minister because ordinated and may involve heavy of the advice they received from the further subsidies to transnational cor­ State Electricity Commission. porations in the future. The Premier has Mr 8urgin-Why do you say Alcoa not given any information to Parlia­ is getting cheap power? ment. He has given me information that is privileged and about which I have Mr WILKE8-Alcoa is the only written to him stating that it is un­ recipient of tariff M option 5 and it will satisfactory. be receiving every kilowatt of electricity from the SEC for O· 5 cents a kilowatt The announcement of secret deals hour cheaper than the cost of produc­ with West Germany and the Japanese tion of the power. Dr Swan's figures solvent refined coal in the oil lique­ show that the figure I have just given faction companies came tumbling out is a conservative one, as do Mr Stone's of the Liberal Party public relations figures. They say the real figure is machine in January and February as 5788 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY though these were the only important only selected parts of the populated things to happen to Victoria over the areas of mettopolitan and country past century. These agreements have Victoria. been signed without the participation One of the most cynical moves of either of Parliament or the communi­ the Government was its announced ties affected by decisions taken solely plans to close four services in safe by the Premier. They certainly have Labor Party seats. Could anything be not been the subject of close analysis more cynical? Services in country areas on their impact on the environment or have also been savagely cut. For twelve on energy resources, yet the Premier years, the Government has been promis­ still persists in assuming that he is able ing to improve public transport with to make these policies without the public transport revolutions announced assistance of Parliament or anyone by Ministers of Transport and the else. It appears that on the first Premier, including a transport follow-up occasion he travels overseas he wants announced by the Premier-yet nothing to flog off Victoria's resources to the has happened. first available purchaser or probable buyer. The Government has driven com­ muters back into their cars. It has pro­ The Centre for Environmental Studies vided a public transport system that is at the Melbourne University has cal­ expensive, unreliable, inconvenient, culated that the Latrobe Valley can dirty and obsolete. The opposite is the accommodate only two coal-to-oil case in New South Wales. The eastern plants at the most; despite this, four suburbs railway is a prime example consortiums are planning to use coal of how the system can attract com­ inside and just outside the Latrobe muters back to transport because the Valley. North Bondi and central services have Problems with the State Electricity attracted double the number of pas­ Commission are continuing. They were sengers since they were first put into highlighted last year by the Oppo­ operation. In other words, the public sition and were so grave that a re­ transport system is competing against sponsible Minister had to be sacked. the automobile in New South Wales. The State's economy is on the skids In Victoria the only new rail facility and the Government is accelerating the to be opened is the underground loop slide by complete mismanagement of with its dubious advantage to Victoria's the resources that provide the poten­ broken-down transport system-the tial for reversing that trend. Unless best Victoria could come up with and the Government is prepared to ack­ a very costly exercize. nowledge it in the immediate future, the trend and slide will continue at I advert to Government decision an accelerated rate. making. The Government has neglected certain areas because it has been ob­ There is hardly any point in remind­ sessed with other issues, such as land­ ing the Government again of its failure marks and monuments. Instead of in public transport because day after bringing prosperity to Victoria it has day during the last sessional period offered to roof the Flinders Street rail­ the honourable member for Knox and way yards ten times in the past ten colleagues on his committee made years. The Government has spoken of those failures abundantly clear to Par­ new directives and new initiatives. It liament and nothing has changed since. invited private enterprise to submit The world is facing an energy crisis proposals to build a convention centre and everywhere else Governments are at the Exhibition Buildings and after moving to upgrade and expand public private enterprise had spent thousands transport systems to meet the crisis, of dollars preparing those submissions yet the Victorian Government is seek­ for the Government, the Government ing to close transport centres down rejected them and decided to go it and restrict public transport to a small alone; it then wonders why the busi­ and elitist transport system serving ness community has lost confidence in Mr Wilkes 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5789 the Government. Now, the Premier has the National Mutual group of companies changed his mind again and the Ex­ are taking their funds elsewhere. They hibition Buildings centre is to be re­ will not risk those funds in Victoria placed by some other centre in some with the present Government and the other place. way in which the Government is handl­ I did not wish to mention the Gov­ ing these issues. ernment's plans for a casino, but that, The Government cannot make a of course, is a fine example of the decision. The area of planning has a Government's incapacity to make a record of indecision and I doubt that decision. Last April, the Premier had anyone knows precisely what the Gov­ a big press conference and invited ernment's planning proposals and everyone to view his model of the policies are. On the one hand, the proposed casino and convention centre Government refuses National Mutual on the banks of the Yarra River. Of permission to develop the Rialto com­ course, he did not allow for what would plex and on the other hand it announces happen when he told the Liberal Party that it will consider a similar proposal what he had committed them to and by another developer. What is wrong all honourable members are aware of with that decision making? the result of the outcome-the Liberal Party rebuffed him. The Government refused the National Last week the media suggested that Mutual group of companies and then the Premier was again thinking about it did an about turn and said that it a casino. In fact, he was. It had never was going to consider some other de­ been out of his mind. However, he did veloper. Where does that leave the not count heads before he spoke of National Mutual group, one of the big his second proposal. The casino is not investors in Victoria? What does the of major importance to Victoria and National Mutual group do? It says to the future of the State, but the issue the Government, "We have had highlights the decision-making pro­ enough. We will take our investments cesses of the Government. elsewhere", and that is precisely what it is doing. If the Government cannot make a decision on a simple issue like a casino, While the Government has been how can it be expected to make a vacillating, Victoria's heritage is be­ decision on any major development that ing destroyed bit by bit. The people of might be proposed for the State? The Victoria are sicks and tired of the Premier cannot give any guarantee that rhetorical references by Ministers to he can pilot any of his proposals land marks and monuments. through his party. He can give no Victorians want positive Government assurances should developers and in­ action, and they are entitled to it. The vestors wish to put money into the continued failure of the Government State. He can give no assurances that to provide such action drove the Herald he can stand up to or to what the on 3 March this year to say: party might stand up about how invest­ The important thing for this city and this ments will be welcome and how pro­ State to acknowledge is that we need to do jects will be accepted by the Govern­ more than play about with cardboard models ment. The Premier has failed to prove and PR handouts in pretty brochures. Too many to the business world in this country of our new plans, our new ideas, our new initiatives in every area die stillborn-cut down. and abroad his capacity to do that. not by swift executive denial but by the slow After two years of anguish, the Gov­ death of a thousand delaying deliberations. ernment is still deeply divided on the The Herald went on to say that Vic­ issue of a casino and a convention toria has significant economic problems centre and it has not yet made up its but none that cannot be solved given mind. It never will. That is a fine the vigour, the resolution and the example of just what is wrong with leadership that Victorians are entitled the Government. In the meantime, in­ to demand. The Herald was merely vestors such as Federal Hotels Ltd and voicing the across the board frustra- 5790 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY tions and anger of the business section and its record on issues such as single and the community against the Gov­ tender contracts and Vapold. The list is ernment. endless. Unfortunately, the Government did One can understand the backward not take the clear hint that the Herald back-benchers of the Liberal Party be­ gave it and I am prompted to remind ing very sensitive about that list be­ the Premier of today's strong editorial cause the list demonstrates clearly the in the Herald, which is under the head­ performance of the Government not ing, "It isn't Happening". It is the most only since the last election but also damaging editorial the Government has over the years since this Premier has experienced in its term of office. The been in charge of this Government in Herald has this to say: the Parliament. All of these issues are It was unfortunately all too familiar a feeling merely part of a much greater problem again. The Government had failed to be decisive, that confronts Victoria today. The Gov­ cohesive and effective. It is said by some that ernment has created problems by its yesterday's events raise questions about Mr Hamer's continued leadership of his party. It refusal to develop a coherent economic can certainly be said that unless this Govern­ social and environmental plan that ment gets its act together it will find itself could be put into use for the whole increasingly in deepening political trouble. of Victoria. That refusal is only part of Obscured too yesterday was the Government's announcement that it favoured four year terms its over-all failure to fulfil its basic for the Victorian Parliament, in itself a most responsibilities as a Government. The worthy reform. It would be irony indeed if the Government has failed to provide pros­ first recipient of such an extension of time perity; jobs; a clean and efficient pub­ turned out to be a Labor administration. lic transport system; it has failed to That is the most damaging and indict­ use Victoria's energy resources and to ing editorial that this Premier has ex­ make decisions when decisions are perienced. The Premier reacts to needed and stick to the decisions once editorials. The House knows how the they are made. Those fundamental honourable gentleman reacts to the failures of the Government show that it editorials of the Age and other news­ is time the Government made way for papers. It will be interesting to note a Government that will concern itself how the honourable gentleman reacts with the State's prosperity-a Govern­ to the Herald editorial. ment that will create jobs, upgrade Vic­ toria's pubilc transport system and get One could continue the list of Gov­ Victoria back on the rails again. ernment failures: Its lack of integrity in spending $170 000 of the taxpayers' Yesterday the Labor Party outlined money to promote its so-called new to the House some of the essential directions policies; its lack of basic features of a plan to achieve those democratic principles in failing to cor­ aims. The Premier can launch 100 pub­ rect the gerrymander that exists in lic relations campaigns about the so­ Victoria today; its hypocrisy in claim­ called new directions policy. The Premier ing it is not in favour of nuclear power can spend another $170000 of the tax­ in Victoria and then voting against the payers' money on promoting himself proposal when it was before the Par­ and his Government. The Premier can liament; and its deceit about the land rename all the Ministries in his Gov­ deals and the cash balances and statu­ ernment and he can organize a year-long tory reserves in the last election cam­ telethon if he so desires, but he can­ paign provided further evidence of a not alter the realities that the facts Government unable to grasp the nettle, show. The Government has failed and no to bite the bullet and unable to under­ amount of public relations posturing stand the economic ills of the State can obscure that failure~ The Govern­ and what is needed to correct those ment must resign. ills. Mr HAMER (Premier)-In many The Government has demonstrated ways what the House has just heard its contempt for the Parliament through from the Leader of the Opposition is a its appalling record of broksen promises re-run of what honourable members AIr Wilkes 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5791 heard last night. What the Leader of Why was it not mentioned? Why did the Opposition has done-and it was the Leader of the Opposition give only predictable, I suppose, at the begin­ a partial summary of the position and ning of the session-is to dredge up a highly selective set of figures? He all he could find to criticize about the did not mention that Victoria has the Government, going back years and highest level per capita of savings in years. The speech was merely a grab Australia and the highest level of home bag of complaints without one single ownership. This is important for the constructive idea during the 40 minutes average family in Victoria. The Leader the Leader of the Opposition took to of the Opposition expects honourable deliver his speech. members to support a vote of want-of­ The Leader of the Opposition did confidence in the Government based on not put forward one constructive idea. the limited figures that he has pro­ One must conclude that the Leader of vided. The rest of his .figures concern the Opposition has been engaged in a two things, mainly the building in­ desperate defence against the "new dustry and vehicle registration. Once directions" policy that the Government again the figures are selective. The and Victoria has undertaken. Is the honourable member failed to mention Leader of the Opposition really con­ that most of the bankruptcies that have cerned about jobs, about growth and occurred have been in the building in­ about the way in which jobs can be dustry and that the figures are in pro­ created through the proper develop­ portion to Victoria's population. ment and management of Victoria's Obviously he has not studied the assets? His speech had nothing what­ figures or he would know that, and soever to do with Victoria's future. if he knows it, he should have men­ The reason why the Leader of the tioned it. Opposition produced nothing construc­ This proves that when taking a set of tive in his speech is evidence of the figures it is important to take a start­ continuing divisions and schisms with­ ing point for percentages. If it is de­ in the Labor Party. Honourable mem­ sired to fiddle the figures, that is differ­ bers opposite are unable to agree on a ent, but to obtain a true picture, one programme. The Leader of the Opposi­ must start by comparing the base tion produced some highly selective figures. Percentages can prove nothing. figures about the Victorian economy. In The figures given by the Leader of the connection with unemployment, the Opposition date back to last June. I honourable member failed completely point out that since then a revival has to mention the main issue, which is the taken place in the building industry in level of unemployment in Victoria. The Victoria. Leader of the Opposition failed to men­ Mr Cathle-They date to last Decem­ tion that Victoria still has the ber. Look again. lowest level of unemployment in Australia at 6'1 per cent, at the Mr HAMER-The honourable mem­ end of January, according to the ber for Carrum should look at these Australian Bureau of Statistics. figures which relate to 30 June for Victoria is still in its customary posi­ bankruptcies, dwellings commenced, tion of having the lowest level of un­ dwellings completed and so on. Once employment in Australia. The leader of again he is wrong. A revival has the Opposition is trying to convince occurred in the building industry, but people that unemployed persons will this has been omitted from the figures. leave an area where unemployment is Finally, honourable members have low and go somewhere where it is been given some figures on vehicle higher. This does not make sense in registration. Once again the Leader of any respect. Victoria has not only the the Opposition has failed to mention lowest level of unemployment but it the record vehicle registrations in also has the highest level of family December and January, which are still income in Australia. I challenge the continuing. They indicate a clear recov­ Leader of the Opposition on that fact. ery from the figures that have been 5792 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY given. This list is not worth the paper has this enormous advantage which can on which it is printed. It is merely a be used for the benefit of the people. selective set of figures which does not The Government intends to use the ad­ give any true picture of the situation vantages to the full. Natural gas can in Victoria. be provided at relatively reasonable I now turn to the future which is prices through the pipeline and it is an far more important. The Leader of the enormous attraction to new industry to Opposition mentioned a number of con­ know that it can obtain that form of struction projects in Victoria. Although energy at a reasonable price. For many he did not give any date for those years, where necessary, electricity has figures, he mentioned $3600 million for been provided at rates which have construction projects in Victoria. The been-- figure is nowhere near the fact. As Mr Amos-Below the cost of produc­ honourable members know, including tion. the honourable member for Morwell, Mr HAMER-They are not below that figure fails to take into account the cost of production; they are set at Loy Yang at more than $3 billion, or a rate designed to attract industry. The about $1000 million being spent by Leader of the Opposition cannot have Esso-BHP in Bass Strait for exploration it both ways. If he is critical of the and development. Apparently the figure rate of progress and economic advance pays no regard to Alcoa of Australia in Victoria he should support the use Ltd, ICI Australia Ltd or any of the of Victoria's assets, particularly energy large developments which are in the assets, to attract new industry. That is pipeline for Victoria. The figure sug­ exactly what the State Electricity Com­ gested by the Government for Victoria mission has been doing for years. The is nearer to $11 000 million. tariff is not new. Mr Cathie-How does that compare Mr Cathie-How many are on option with the other States? 5? Mr HAMER-Quite well. This selec­ tive figuring by the Leader of the The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Crellin) Opposition does not portray the true -Order! I remind members of the picture. The Leader of the Opposition Opposition that the Leader of the made some play about the obligation Opposition was given a courteous hear­ of the Government, which is acknow­ ing by the House. I ask that the same ledged, to use the "comparative advan­ courtesy be given to the Premier. tage", to put it in his words, of Vic­ Mr HAMER-The State Electricity toria's energy position to improve this Commission has had tariff M for many State's prospects for the future. At years. It was originally designed, and is least he concurs with the Government still designed, to attract industry. In on that point because one of the chief other words, it uses Victoria's "com­ bases for the future prosperity and de­ parative advantage", in the words of velopment of Victoria is its energy re­ the Leader of the Opposition, to bring sources. I take it from what the Leader industry here and create jobs. The of the Opposition said that he is not in Government intends to do that to the favour of a resources tax. utmost of its ability. It intends to apply Mr Wilkes-How could one deduce tariff M with its six options to the full. that from what I said? These six options have been available for years to any lindustry which quali­ Mr HAMER-It was difficult to de­ fied for them. The Government intends duce anything but that appeared to be t'O use that 'comparative advantage to the case. The Leader of the Opposition bring industry to Victoria and create spoke of using cheap electricity to jobs. It is one of the immense ad­ bring industry to Victoria. I hope the vantages Victoria has and that qualifica­ honourable member for Morwell tion is not at the expense of other in­ accepts that idea. A resources tax dustries. The Leader of the Opposition would be detrimental to Victoria which quoted figures from a Or Swan, whom 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5793

I do not know, and all I can say is that advance to the Victorian Govern'ment the Government's economic advisers are wi th the consent of its consortium of the opposite opinion. partners, to make a 'preliminary a'gree­ Mr Wilkes-All of them? ment, which would 'al,low the 'carrying out of a feasibility 'study into brown Mr HAMER-Yes. There is absolutely coal in the Latrobe Valley. no question 'Of the consumers, as a whole, subsidizing major ,industries. The second major group ,interested is These industries have an advantage in the ,Mitsui SRC Development Company obtaining industrial tariffs because they Ltd, which is one of the largest cor­ are large, continuous users and it pays porations in Japan. As was the case the State Electricity Commission 'of Vic­ with the Rheinbraun company, the toria to have them as customers. The Government told Mi,tsui that before any Government does not propose to aban­ development could be considered, it don that principle; the Government must have an Australian partner. Mitsud proposes to use that comparative ad­ now has an Australian partner, namely, vantage to obtain more 'industry for CSR Limited. Victoria and create more lobs. Mr Ginifer-What about royalties? I shall now deal with the future use Mr HAMER-Of course, there will of the resource of brown cO'al in Vic­ be royalties. Mitsui has linked up with toria. Recently an eminent industrialist CSR and plans 'are under way to carry said that Victoria is floating on brown out a feasibility study at a cost of $4 coal. Although that 'is somewhat of an million t'O be 'completed by the end 'Of over-statement it underscores the fact this year. Mitsui has already erected a that a large quantity of brown coal pilot plant at Ohmuta in Ja,pan and ,is exists, not only in the Latrobe Valley putting through that plant, 1000 tonnes but also at Gelliondale in South Gipps­ of Victorian brown c'Oal to test the re­ land and in areas west of Melbourne as source. The company is impressed with evidenced by outcroppings at Bacchus the results. Mitsui is interested in Marsh and Anglesea. These areas have brown coal not only for oil 'conversion, hardly been driUed at all. The clear in­ but also for conversion into solvent re­ dications are that a vast quantity of fined coal and 'Same 'Other products brown coal exists in Victoria and much which are even mare interesting, such of it is economically 'winnable. The as needle c'Oke, which is used in blast Government would be recreant to its furnaces for manufacturing steel. An­ duty if it did not develop that resource. other interesting use is ,carbon fibre, The Leader of the Opposition cannot which in many respects isa replace­ criticize the Government for being de­ ment for asbestos fibre, and is widely termined to use the resource for the in use in the aerospace industry, as weB creation of further 'industry and 'more as for the manufacture of car bodies jabs for Victoria. The Government al­ and 'camponents for the Bullet train in ready has four large assodates and Japan. Other uses include the ,manu­ groups interested in such projects. facture 'Of brake linings. Mr Wilkes-Four? This is an enarm'Ously important de­ Mr HAMER-Four, and I shall name velapment and, according to' Mitsui, the them. Four groups are interested in cost of 'manufa'cturingcarbon fibre from various aspects of the use of brown brown coal is 'Only about 'One-third of coal for purposes other than electricity the traditional method. Therefore, the generation. The first is the Rheinbraun project has immense possibilities and company of Germany, which is a mem­ it is no wonder that Mitsui and CSR 'are ber of a consortium that has an agree­ excited at the praspect. There has been ment signed with the German Govern­ no commli't'ment of any kind and in both ment, the Australian Government and cases ,the IQrganizatians are 'carrying 'Out three State Governments in Australia feasibility 'Studies. to investigate coal to oil conversion. The third organizatian to which I re­ That company is sufficiently impressed fer, is the Kominic consortium, which with progress to date to have made an is supported by the Ja,panese Govern- 5794 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY ment. That organization has proposed Mr HAMER-Yes. The bus service to erect a pilot plant dn the La'trobe has three times the patronage the rail VaUey a's a first -step land ·the Govern­ motor had. Between Geelong and Bal­ ment 'has 'given it every assist'ance. If larat the patronage with the use of a bus ,the honourable lmember for Morwell has increased six times. It is not a ques­ does not think it is a worthwhile pro­ tion of whether one has a train or not. It ject to have $160 million worth of pilot is a question of the best form of public plant there, the Government does. transport having regard to the fact that thecom'munity subsidizes public trans­ The fourth organization to which I port 4n Victoria to the tune of $228 refer is ·not located .in the Latrobe mHlion per year. The Government has Valley -at all. I refer to the American an obligation to use the funds it allo­ company ARea, which is Atl'antic Rlich­ cates to public transport -as wisely and field. It is associated with various Aus­ economically as possible. traliancompanies. That organization is part of a consortium that is interested Otherwise it simply escalates the in !the Gelliondale field in South Gipps­ amount of subsidy that the Govern­ 'land. An these organimtJions must obey ment has to provide for public trans­ !the rules of the Government rel'ating'to port which in turn means that some­ environ·mental protection, environmental thing less is spent in other areas. It impact studies and various other rules. is as simple as that. The objective of Such companies !must have Australian the Government is to provide the best pa-rtners before ,the Victorian Govern­ possible public transport service that it ment will consider la development pro­ can and the Government intends to ject. None has been commited 'as yet. continue with that policy. It is prepared When the time comes to -make a 'com­ to discuss the matter with the people mitment, :the subject wnl be brought to concerned to ensure that the service the Parliament. The Government is is as good as the Government can bound to encourage :investigation and make it. it will encourage feasibility studies so I come now to the question of delays. that these irnporta-nt projects oan be There is no doubt that in any modern undertaken. If they were to eventually society there are considerable delays come into production each would cost in decision making due to the needs -at -least $2 bHlion or 'more. What then of environment protection, planning is the Leader of the Opposition talking requirements and all kinds of regula­ a'bout when he -mentions $3·6 billion as tions and it is the function of the the total Iorall Victoria? Government, so far as it can, to cut I shall refer to public transport, through red tape, to remove avoidable which is a further area ,mentioned by d~lays a~d to l1}ake it easier for people the Leader of the Opposition. I made WIth projects eIther to receive a "yes" it -plain this 'morning Ithat the Govern­ or "no" answer as promptly as pos­ ment is 'interested lin providing the best sible. The Government has stated that possible public transport at the most that is its objective and that is one economical rates. The argument ought of the things it intends to perform not '1'0 be whether the Government with greater effectiveness in the 1980s. should retain tra-in lines simply for the I am dealing with the five points so purpose of retaining trains, but whether feebly made by the Leader of the Op­ there is ·a better way of 'handUng :public position. The last point related to transport. I remind the Deputy Leader decision making. It may come as a of the OppOSition that the record clearly s~~prise to the Le~der of the Oppo­ shows what has happened in severall in­ SItIOn to learn that In the Liberal Party stances. In Wontha,ggi, where originally people are entitled to make up their opposition was experienced, the rail own minds. They are entitled to make motor has !been replaced by a bus. decisions on what proposals they are prepared to support, and I accept that. Mr Crabb-Have you been there They are not dragooned as are mem­ lately? bers of the Labor Party-sometimes 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5795 that party has to use some fairly strong supporters who chose to sit at the methods, as the Leader of the Oppo­ back of the Premier and support his sition knows only too well. argument against a motion of this type. What the Leader of the Opposition The House witnessed the situation was really complaining about i~. his where only half a dozen members of diatribe this afternoon was decIsions the Government party, including only which have been made by the Govern­ two Ministers, chose to sit in the Par­ ment. He may not agree with them, liament and to support the Premier, but they have been decisions which whereas the Leader of the Opposition have been made and the Government spoke with the vast majority of the intends to go on making decisions. The members of the Opposition being pre­ Parliament will debate some more of sent to hear his address and quite those decisions during this sessional properly so. I submit that demonstrably period. indicates that the Government is tired and does not have the fight to take on The Government has at heart the the issues, projects and challenges interests of the people of Victoria. It which face Victoria through the 1980s. has set out on a path of creati!lg j~bs from growth and intends to persist With In his address the Leader of the Op­ that policy and to call into play all ~he position outlined in a structured way valuable assets and advantages which the points which unquestionably indi­ Victoria possesses. The Government in­ cate how the Government has failed tends to use them for the benefit of and it is equally important to realize the people of Victoria. how it is going to continue to fail in relation to personalities and policies That is more than honourable mem­ which honourable members have seen bers have .been able to glean from and heard so much of during recent anything which the Leader of ~he Op­ years. position has been able to put thiS after­ noon. One has to search to find some­ The five headings outlined by the thing constructive because it is not Leader of the Opposition ought to be reiterated because the Premier has there as the Labor Party never mak~s up its mind about anything. Even If attempted to divert attention from anything has an air of constructive them. It is important for this debate thought about it, the Labor Party tends to come back to them because they to oppose it anyway. are fundamental to the future of this State, and for the benefit of honour­ The Government rejects the motion able members I shall repeat them. on the grounds that it was very weakly Firstly, the Leader of the Opposition supported and the argument advanced referred to the state of the Victorian had no content whatsoever. economy and outlined a number of Mr FORDHAM (Footscray)-In his indices which demonstrated the state attempted reply to the well-reasoned of the economy. and well-argued case of the Leader of Secondly, the Leader of the Oppo­ the Opposition, the Premier has shown sition referred to the significance and that he and his Government is tired. the trends of unemployment in the The Government is obviously devoid State and the prospects for the future. of ideas and, quite frankly, the Premier Thirdly, the Leader of the Opposi­ did not even demonstrate the fight that tion spoke of the use to which this I expected. Obviously I suspect that his Government has put the energy re­ own supporters would have expected sources of VictOria, resources which more of a fight from him in response would be an essential ingredient or a to a motion as fundamental and as spring board for the future development important as a motion of want of con­ and prosperity of the people in this fidence. State. That was demonstrated, not only in Fourthly, reference was made by the the quality of the reply of the Premier Leader of the Opposition to the but also in the number of Government approach of the Government to public 5796 Want 0/ Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY transport, one of the key elements in would recognize the housing and build­ the social framework of any community ing industries are fundamental ingre­ and the future development of this dients in any future economic recovery State and its people. in this State. Fifthly and finally, the Leader of the Similarly, the number of new dwell­ Opposition referred to the decision ings under construction as at 30 June making proposals that the Government 1980 fell by 9·8 per cent in Victoria has demonstrated over recent years. but they rose by 19·2 per cent in New The Leader of the Opposition referred South Wales and by some 3·9 per cent to a number of examples, the most in Australia as a whole compared with recent of which was the appalling per­ figures as at 30 June 1979. formance of the Government yesterday Taking up the interjection of the in rejecting the proposals of its own Minister for Employment and Training, leader, the Premier, over the establish­ I point out that with his economic ment of a casino in Victoria. That was background the honourable gentleman an example which has been cited and should know that it is not as simple further examples will be elaborated on as that as there are a whole host of by other Opposition speakers who will other factors. highlight the deficiencies. Mr Dixon-Are you saying that the Those five headings need to be ham­ price of the house has nothing to do mered home time and again. The Gov­ with it? ernment has shown itself to fail and there is no prospect of recovery from Mr FORDHAM-The price of a that failure. It is the failure of the house, just as with the cost of con­ Government that is affecting the people struction, has gone up. of this State. Mr Dixon-But the average price in Sydney is 75 per cent higher. The Leader of the Opposition high­ lighted some of the indices affecting the Mr FORDHAM-Well, the financial economy, but these were not referred institutions are still providing larger to by the Premier in his reply. For amounts of funds for housing in New example, in terms of housing, the South Wales despite the fact that the Leader of the Opposition was able to consumers are confronted with demonstrate the statistics of dwellings a much dearer commodity in completed and commenced and com­ the spending of the consumer dollar. pared Victoria with New South Wales I would have though that supported and with the rest of Australia. Those the Opposition's arguments rather than statistics indicated demonstrably that telling against them. A similar situa­ Victoria is falling behind the other tion applies to the over-all construction States in relation to housing trends. figures that were highlighted, and Replying to the interjection of the which the Premier chose to ignore, and Minister for Employment and Training, to the schedules of major projects pro tern., I point out that the statistics released by the Federal Minister for are for the number of new dwellings Industry and Commerce, Sir Phillip commenced for the period 1979-80. The Lynch. number of new buildings commenced Similar statistics were also given by compared with the number for previous the Minister of Industrial Development years rose by 1·2 per cent over that in New South Wales, Mr Don Day, and period compared with 20·6 per cent in comments were made by Mr Tom New South Wales and 11·7 per cent Austin, the then Victorian Minister of for Australia as a whole. Public Works, highlighting the dis­ There was no response from the crepancies in development prospects Premier to those statistics, but I sug­ between New South Wales and Victoria. gest that they are an obvious reflection It is an undeniable fact, as the Trea­ on the state of the building industry surer would have to recognize that in Victoria, particularly the housing individual commentators-I refer'to the industry. As honourable members National Times series done for various Afr Fordham 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5797 States of Australia as well as the 1979-80 the increase in the number of Australian Financial Review series, bankruptcies in Victoria was 61'7 per which made particular reference to the cent compared with 12'2 per cent in construction industry-have highlighted New South Wales and 29'1 per cent the lamentable performance of the for Australia. The Treasurer, who is at Government in Victoria and the lack of the table, would recognize 'that this is prospects over this decade compared a worrying index which should be of with those of New South Wales. concern to the Government. Although However, the matter that concerns this matter was brought forward last me most deeply is the question of sessional period by the honourable investment in manufacturing. For a member for Dandenong, the shadow whole host of historical and geo­ Minister for Economic Planning, and graphical reasons, Victoria has been by the Leader of the Opposition, the the centre of manufacturing industry' Government is trying to hide from the in Australia, and that has been one of statistics by saying that the figures are the reasons why our unemployment a mere aberration-a once-only rate in the past was much lower than exercise. By doing tha t it hopes to that for • 'le rest of Australia. If Vic­ push the matter aside until after the toria is to maintain or reassert its next election. pre-eminence with the other States of It is an indication of the state of this country, it is essential that manu­ business, particularly small business, in facturing industry be ·given an oppor­ our community, to realize the high tunity of flourishing further. But ,the proportion of small business that is prospects of future manufacturing in­ involved in those bankruptcy indices. vestment, on the statistics made avail­ When small business starts to go down able by the Leader of the Opposition, the drain, as is happening in Victoria, show that Victoria has attracted only the repercussions are felt across the 12 per cent of this proje'cted manu­ whole community. The Treasurer can­ facturing investment, compared with not deny tha't, because in the past when 19'8 per cent in Western Australia, things were more buoyant, many a 27'1 per cent in Queensland and 32'3 speech was made about small business per cent in New South Wales. in Victoria and its important role in I accept that much of this is related the development of the economy and to the resources boom that is going on the future of the people of this State. in parts of Australia in natural These indices show ,that the Victorian resources, but given the advantage that economy is in a downturn and that the Victoria had because of that back­ situation here is worse than that in ground in manufacturing, because of New South Wales and the rest of the expertise and the headquarters of Australia. The indices demonstrate that most of those companies being based our economy is in a very serious sta'te. in Victoria, why did those investors The first thing the Government must choose to send much of that future do is to recognize that and then do manufacturing investment outside this something about it. State rather than consolidating it in The second matter that must be Victoria? The answer is that they did dealt with is unemployment, a matter so because of the Government's near and dear to the hearts of all policies and because of the perform­ persons concerned with the Labor ance of this Government as outlined in movement in Victoria, and the State the reasons given by the Leader of the Parliamentary Labor Party no less than Opposition. It is not only investment any of the others. The Premier has that is moving out of the State but also people, and I shall refer to that attempted to mislead the community aspect further. on the facts of life about the unemploy­ ment rate in Victoria. I shaU repeat The bankruptcy statistics of Victoria the key statistics given by the ,Leader compared with those of New South of the Opposition. They show ,that in Wales were also referred to. During January 1981 the percentage of people 5798 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY unemployed and looking for work com­ Mr FORDHAM-The Treasurer cer­ pared with the figures for January tainly ought to know that. The January 1980 rose by some 2'3 per cent in 1981 statistics show that the unemploy­ Victoria but fell by 3'1 per cent in ment rate in Victoria was 6'1 per New South Wales and by 2'3 cent, and New South Wales had the per cent throughout Australia. The same figure of 6'1 per cent. To assert trend over the past twelve months has that the situation in Victoria is better been that the number of unemployed than that in New South Wales is clearly in Victoria has increased, but has been not correct. The position is the same at reduced for New South Wales and present, and over the past twelve Australia. months Victoria's position has deter­ iorated in relation to that of New South Mr Thompson-It is still the best Wales. They are incontrovertible facts. in Australia. The Treasurer has conceded by inter­ Mr FORDHAM-I take up the inter­ jection that the information I have jection of the Treasurer that it is still given was correct, and he is going to the best in Australia, a point made by bring forward new statistics. It is the the Premier, but I am afraid. his stat­ first time we have been able to get the istics were incorrect and out of date. Treasurer to concede something; we Let us go back a little, beca\Jse I sus­ have always had the broad brush state­ pect that the Treasurer's information ment that Victoria's rate of unemploy­ was based on some rather old statistics. ment is much better than that of New In January 1980 the unemployment South Wales, but now it will be on the rate in Victoria was 6·1 per cent and record that the Government concedes in New South Wales it was 6'3 per that this is not the case. cent. Victoria was performing better The only reason that this situation than New South Wales a year ago. In has developed over the past twelve February 1980 the same paUern months is because of the exodus of occurred; the rate in Victoria was 6'1 population from Victoria. This was per cent and in New South Wales, 6'3 brought forward by the shadow Min­ per cent. ister for Economic Planning a year ago and it was scoffed at by the Govern­ Mr Thompson-What about March ment, which said it was not true; it 1981? was only the elderly and retired people Mr FORDHAM-Today is 11 March; who were moving up to the better we have received advance notice that climate in Queensland. However, now the Treasurer has the March 1981 that the detailed statistics have come employment statistics and is going to out, they show tha't that was not the table them. I look ,forward to receiving large group that are preponderantly the March statistics and I am sure they moving out of Victoria. It is the young will confirm my argument. people 'who are capable of work and want to work but who cannot obtain February 1980 was the last month in work; they have been following the which already published statistics of investment figures which we s'howed the New South Wales unemployment earlier. These people are moving from rate were worse than those of Victoria, Victoria to Queensland, Western Aus­ despite the frequent assertions by the tralia and some parts of New South Premier and the Treasurer that the Wales where the investment and tax pattern throughout 1980 has been con­ situation is better. sistent. However, in March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, That is one of the other reasons why the unemployment rate is not shown as November and December that was not worse than it is. The Premier and the true. Treasurer must at last accept those Mr Wilkes-He knows that, and if facts of life. The same pattern is not he does not know it, that is why we happening in other parts of Australia, are in the state we are in. and those honourable gentlemen must 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5799 recognize that is the case. Some 200 000 ly, that of the secretary of the Federal Victorians want work in this State and Treasury-not a man I would normally are not able to obtain it. It is about wish to be identified with in terms of time that the Government recognized economic policy. Unquestionably, he is and accepted its responsibility in that also of the view that the Victorian situation. Government has sold the people of this The third key factor in the analysis State short in the prices it is charging. of the Opposition dealt with the use of I believe the community sees, as a energy in this State. I had the oppor­ test case, how seriously the Victorian tunity some years ago to serve as Government views itself as the cus­ shadow Minister for what was then fuel todian of this great resource in the and power, and I was able to glean the Latrobe Valley and related areas, as potential capacity of the State's brown illustrated by the Leader of the Op­ coal deposits, and the gas and oil re­ position. Similarly, under this energy serves in Bass Strait. Unfortunately, the heading, the relationship between the Government allowed the oil and gas Government and the State Electricity to be placed under the control of a Commission has deteriorated to the company that has not ensured that the point where the commission is in ser­ benefits will flow to Victoria. I hope ious financial difficulties, as was demon­ a Labor Government will be able to strated by the Auditor-General, and take a step there. Victoria faces a real risk of shortage of Let me refer to the brown coal re­ electricity in the mid 1980s. serves and their use by the Govern­ ment. One of the key tests whether the My hard working colleague, the Government is doing the right thing shadow Minister for Minerals and by the people of this State, both for Energy, has demonstrated this in the present and future generations, is its House time and again, and I have no relationship with Alcoa, which will be doubt that honourable members will the biggest consumer of electricity­ have the benefit of his expertise later which equals brown coal in Victoria. in this debate to reinforce the point The Government showed itself to be that has been made. either completely inept in being able to The final example under this question negotiate with a large muti-national of energy is the great potential issue of company, or willing to be used by that benefits to Victorians from conversion company in determining the price to of coal to oil. Victoria has the poten­ be charged for electricity for the pro­ tial to be at the forefront of a possible posed Portland smelter. breakthrough in technology on a scale I look forward to the comments of unknown. Some plants have been the Treasurer if he wishes to speak established in South Africa and Ger­ about that. So far as I know, Mr Wran many, but there is a potential for a does not have any relationship with massive development. However, that Alcoa. Alcoa came to Victoria because cannot be done by a Government negot­ the State provided much easier pickings iating with Japanese or other overseas than elsewhere. companies behind closed doors, devel­ oping secret agreements. If there is to The Opposition has pressed for an be this sort of development it must independent assessment to be made of come to this Parliament for considera­ electricity prices. The Opposition even tion before a decision is made. I remind asked for the Treasury to do it, but the the Leader of the National Party that Government said that it was not Gov­ no coal to oil plant is being conceived ernment policy to allow the Treasury for New South Wales. There is no de­ to have an input. Independent assess­ velopment of the magnitude of this coal ments were undertaken. The Leader of to oil scheme that is being considered the Opposition has outlined those find­ in the Latrobe Valley. I reiterate that ings on the prices being charged by if a development of this sort is to this Government for electricity from occur, the community of Victoria must Victoria's brown coal and, more recent- be fully informed of the potential of the 5800 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY possibility, the nature of the arrange­ subject is casinos, convention centres, ments, and who is to receive the bene­ roofing the railway yards, or the future fits. That has not been the attitude of of the magnificent Rialto complex in this Government. The Premier, under Collins Street. There is an about face, the pressure of this Parliament, made depending on the pressure point of the arrangements for the Leader of the Op­ day and what groups are approaching position to see some of these docu­ the Government or the back bench. ments on a confidential basis. That is The Government has failed to bring not acceptable to any community in the together cohesively, not only its own 1980s. members but the community at large, The fourth heading relates to public in its handling of the problems that transport. I have no doubt that my col­ have been outlined, and in the prob­ league, the shadow Minister of Trans­ lems that cannot be denied. The Gov­ port, will reiterate the view of the ernment was warned at the last elec­ Opposition on the downgrading of pub­ tion of its fate if it did not change its lic transport in this community. The attitude and change its approach. That key elements obviously are, firstly, that has not been seen in any meaningful the Government each year, or perhaps way whatsoever. every two years, depending on when The State started the 1980s with the elections are held, brings out a new some enormous advantages. It had a transport plan. There is to be a new great manufacturing industry base, with programme for public transport in Vic­ problems in clothing, textile, and motor toria. Up until the past twelve months, vehicles, but the base was there for the hallmark has been to promise an further development of manufacturing extension of the existing facilities-a industry. The State has energy re­ new tram line, a new bus line or a sources, and above all a skilled work­ new train line-but when the election force unparalled elsewhere in Aus­ came and want, those plans were put tralia, and people would adapt to the aside. changed prospects if given the oppor­ There was a new element with the tunity. The Government, despite those establishment of the Lonie inquiry and advantages and that heritage, has the Lonie report. The Minister for Em­ mucked it up. The prerequisite for any ployment and Training, pro tem, would future development in this State, for' recognize that the questions of social any sort of economic or social stabil­ effectiveness and social need were not ity, is developing trust and confidence taken into account by the Lonie in­ in the community at large about what quiry. It will be a tragedy for the a Government is doing. The Govern­ future of transport in Victoria if the ment has to be able to be seen as Government is allowed to act without unifying the community, as repre­ taking into account the social conse­ senting the community at large. quences of its actions. By contrast, in This should be applied to capital and other States of Australia, Queensland labour, city and country, young and and New South Wales in particular, old. To some extent, that was the an extension of public transport facili­ hallmark of the Government during ties has been very successfully intro­ the 1960s. It was successful in achiev­ duced, but in Victoria there has been ing that enlarged measure, but by no a cutback. means can that be seen to be the The final area introduced by the standing of the Government at the Opposition is the question of decision moment. The community is divided and making and the processes being fol- the Government is divided. Because of 10wed by the Government. that, Victoria's prospects for the future remain a question mark. Instead of Mr Wilkes-Non-decision making facing up to the problems and taking would be more explicit. a unifying process, the Government has Mr FORDHAM-Change of courses, embarked on a public relations exer­ and about faces, are so much a hall­ cise, not just in the appointment of mark of the Government, whether the public relations staff, but also with the 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5801 new directions policy of December in a much more advantageous position 1980 and, only a few days ago, with than they were during the 1960s and another document called Victoria's 1970s. Strategy for the Eighties. This is full The Government considers that three of rhetoric and does not contain any­ approaches are needed to guide Vic­ thing about a dollar or a job to indi­ toria to prosperity during the 1980s. cate prospects for the future. That is The first one is a change in the method a tragedy. of financial relationships, which I have The "in" words at the moment are, mentioned at times in this House. It "red tape", "Jobs from Growth" and could be said that I repeat them too so forth. Members of the Opposition often. However, I have found that realize that the changes required in people in the outside community are the community will not come about by unaware of the basic differences be­ rhetoric. They will come about by tween the method of reimbursing Vic­ leadership and policies that are geared toria from the income tax pool and to the needs of the community in the the method of reimbursing other States. decades ahead. In the debate so far the Few people are aware that this year Government has demonstrated that it Victoria receives $348 a head of popu­ is not capable of giving that leadership. lation, Queensland $480 a head, South There needs to be a change of Gov­ Australia $532 a head, Western Aus­ ernment in this State and the sooner tralia $575 a head and Tasmania $710 the better. The best way to bring a head. There is a tremendous differ­ that about is for the House to pass ence in those figures. this motion. Let us have an election As I indicated in the Budget debate, and ask the people of Victoria what .if we were reimbursed on the same they think of the matters raised by basis a head as Queensland, Victoria the Leader of the Opposition and com­ would receive an additional $519 mil­ mented on by the Premier. lion this year alone and, if on the same basis as Western Australia, Victoria I invite honourable members on the would receive another $890 million. Government side of the House to be Although Victoria would not expect honest with themselves in the interests to receive the same amount of money of Victoria and support the want-of­ a head of population as those States, confidence motion. a tremendous difference exists and there is a strong case to make up Mr THOMPSON (Treasurer)-It is some of the leeway between those obvious that Victoria will have to work figures. If Victoria were reimbursed harder during the 1980s to enjoy the according to contributions made, it same measure of development that it would receive another $350 million a has enjoyed during the 1960s and year. That would not be altogether 1970s. During the 1960s States like unreasonable for a few years in view Queensland and Western Australia of the fact that the old formula penal­ were still regarded as economically izing Victoria has operated for 39 years. backward and were earning a degree It would give Victoria $350 million of recognition for the type of assistance extra a year and honourable members they were receiving from the tax re­ on both sides of the House can en­ imbursements grants and the Grants visage worthy and justifiable projects Commission. on which that money could be spent. However, with the development of Mr Roper-What is the bet on that, mineral booms in those States the if you are a casino man? concentration of interest by the finan­ Mr THOMPSON-In reply to the cial press has been on what has been honourable member for Brunswick, the happening in those States. During those basic problem is that, naturally, the earlier years, Victoria led the rest of other States benefit from it and do Australia and during the 1980s Victoria not want to lose Father Christmas. now finds itself in the position of They are doing very nicely, thank you! competing with those States that are Therefore, it is up to Victoria to press Session 1981-199 5802 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY for a fairer and more equitable ap­ The third aspect relates to the gen­ proach in a united fashion, regardless eral attitude to work and productivity of political party. The division is not levels in Australia. I mentioned last really along party political lines, but night-I do not want to dwell on it on the basis of State interests. I cannot again at any great length-that Aus­ stress that too strongly. Whichever tralians are living in a fool's paradise. party held office at the Federal level That is the view of people living in would have the same basic problem. Asia and Europe who constantly say that we have a wonderful country with One reads of the splendid conces­ large open spaces and rich natural sions industry enjoys in Queensland. resources. However, they cannot under­ One hears that Queensland has abol­ stand why all they read about are ished probate duty. That is good. How­ industrial disputes and airline strikes ever, Queensland finds that it has no in Australia. Members of the Oppo­ tobacco tax and it has low petrol tax. sition consistently ignore the threat the They are inducements for industry to latter constitutes to the future of this move to a State with a low tax. How­ country. That attitude split the Labor ever, Victoria pays the highest tax a Party in Great Britain asunder because head in income tax and receives back reasonable Labor Party supporters can the lowest amount per head. The Vic­ no longer afford to be associated torian Government is obliged to lift with the extremist left-wing unions. its State taxes to what I consider to This Labor Party will never be worth be an undesirably high level. That is while until it is prepared to stand up why it is imperative that some sub­ to militant, irresponsible left wing stantial relief be gained in this field. unions which are ruining this country. It is of crucial importance to the industrial development of our State. Honourable members interjecting. The second aspect I will mention is Mr THOMPSON-I know the truth that during the 1970s the Victorian hurts. For example, take the Qantas Government concentrated to a large strikes. There have been nineteen degree on quality of life issues. It strikes in two years. How can members introduced legislation for the preser­ of the Opposition laugh that off. They vation of historic buildings, town plan­ should try to tell tourists who want to ning and the protection. of the environ­ come to Australia and the major air­ ment. They are all worthy objectives lines that come to Australia that it is and everybody agrees with them in a something to be laughed off. Air fares broad sense. However, it has become to Australia are costly enough when apparent that the operation of some compared with the rest of the world. of that legislation has had a restrictive effect on the development of industry. Let me refer to the attitude to work in a country like Hong Kong where the It is the Government's aim to go population has increased more than through the various procedures, pro­ twenty-fold since the war. Last week cesses, regulations and statutory re­ I discussed the attitude to work in quirements to ascertain which of tho~e Hong Kong with a Victorian firm which could be dispensed with in the inter­ is based there. I suggest honourable ests of speedier decision making in the members should listen to what I am permit granting field. That is reason­ about to say because it is very inter­ able and common sense. We do not need to question the basic objectives esting. I was informed that the com­ of clean environment, sound town pany had an agreement with its work­ planning and the preservation of worth­ ers to pour cement for four floors ofa while historic buildings. We must cut multi-storey building a week but the out the unnecessary bottlenecks. Tnis workers poured five floors and were is one of the major objectives of the going so fast that the cement was not Ministry for Economfc Development drying. As a result the company had to and one to which the new Minister is slow them down. Honourable members directing his urgent attention right now. should think about that. Mr Thompson 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5803 Both the Leader of the Opposition ing its future. That is what is happen­ and the Deputy Leader of the Opposi­ ing in Japan where they are in the pro­ tion made a feature of the slow pace cess of closing down 77 railway lines. of the building industry in Victoria. I suggest that if one asked any builder Obviously the motor industry means in Victoria what was his major prob­ a lot to Victoria because it is the lem, his answer would be the constant motor industry headquarters of Aus­ strikes which are organized by the Aus­ tralia. Some 60 per cent-or close to tralian Builders Labourers Federation. I it-of the cars produced in Australia would be very surprised if that was not are produced in Victoria. Therefore, the answer. No one opposite ever rises any slump in the motor sales market to condemn these strikes. is of great consequence to Victoria. However, it was not mentioned by the Honourable members interjecting. Opposition that during the past six months the registration of new vehicles Mr THOMPSON-It is interesting to rose by 32 per cent compared with the note the members who are interject­ first six months of 1980. That compares ing. I need not comment further. Hon­ with an increase of 8 per cent for the ourable members should speak to rest of Australia. That is an encourag­ authorities in the building industry. If ing trend and one which we hope will one asked them what is the greatest be maintained. menace to the industrial development and construction progress in Victoria, In the building construction industry, one would be told that it is constant approvals for dwellings are up above strikes. There have been strikes over the 7000 mark-the highest for five every issue one can imagine, from de­ quarters. That was for the last quarter marcation disputes to the arrival of a of the year. The construction industry pack of fleas at the Arts Centre three in Victoria is running at a higher level weeks ago. These constant strikes are than the construction industry in New doing irreparable harm to the future South Wales. There are reasons for of this State and the future of this that. In 1970-71 the number of dwell­ country, both here and overseas. These ings completed in New South Wales are the things that really matter and was 50000, and in 1972-73, 49000. need to be said. Honourable members Suddenly, by 1977-78, the figure know that the truth hurts the Opposi­ dropped to 38 800 a drop of 17 000 per tion and that in their heart of hearts annum. Obviously there needed to be the more reasonable members of the a dramatic increase in the level of con­ Opposition agree with these comments. struction to overcome the shortage that had developed between 1970 and 1978. Another aspect is the transport field. New South Wales peaked at an earlier It was mentioned that the Minister of stage than Victoria. Transport was proposing to close down a number of railway lines. I was inter­ In Victoria, the level of construction ested to note last week while in Japan, in December 1979 was 6525 and it which probably has the most modern hovered around the 6800 and 6500 rail system in the world, that an mark for the next three quarters. Then announcement was made that 77 rail­ in the December quarter, 1980, it rose way lines would be closed because they to 7100. The Government hopes that were not being fully used. level will be maintained. I stress the approach of the Premier, In the private construction industry that the aim of the Government is to non-dwelling sector, there was an in­ provide the best transport system, re­ crease of 18 per cent in the final gardless of whether it is tram, train quarter of the year, compared with the or public bus. That is the aim of the previous quarter. On a yearly basis Government. One should not think it is there was an increase of 15 per cent unusual, in any country, to look at the and an increase of 20 per cent in the economy of a railway line when decid- number of shop approvals and an in- 5804 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY crease as high as 75 per cent in other level 'Of development that came auto­ business premises approval. That was matically in the 1960s and 1970s. That also an encouraging trend. is why the Governmen tmade these As the Premier also mentioned, the m'ajor changes last year. That 'is why household income of Victoria a head the Government produced this new is the highest in the Commonwealth, direction and appointed three vigorous standing at the level of $6205 as and enterprising Ministers to the key against $6073 which is the average for ,portfolios of Minerals and Energy, Em­ Australia. ployment and Training and Economic Development. The Government has Victoria also has the highest level eevry confidence in the ability of those of Savings Bank deposits of any Ministers to carry out the guidel'ines State of Australia. The Government is detailed in the document. proud to say that Victoria still has the highest level of home ownership The final subject with which I shall in Australia and of any country in the deal concerns the road toll. At a Ume world. when we have been talking about in­ These are all encouraging signs, al­ dustrial development, there has also though the Government recognized been an increasing concentration on some of the figures quoted by members building up the forces of law and order, of the Opposition. To clarify a point not only to achieve .Jaw and order but raised by the Deputy Leader of the also for the purpose of reducing the toll Opposition, the latest Commonwealth on the roads. The road toll would prob­ Employment Service employment ably be the most serious social problem figures stand at 5·9 per cent, the low­ that exists in Australia today because, est in Australia. The figures the hon­ to enjoy a high standard of living or ourable member for Dandenong is any standard of living, one first has to accustomed to quoting, which may be be alive. It has been estimated that the the most reliable, the Bureau of Statis­ road toU in Vktoria can cost up to $400 tics figures-there are varying views million a year, so the Government be­ as to which are the most reliable-also lieves the additional expenditure in­ show that Victoria has the lowest rate volved in recruiting additional police­ of unemployment, that is, people although that is not the only means I looking for full time employment, admit, of reducing the road toll-is well stands at 6·1 per cent which is frac­ justified. tionally below New South Wales. Last year the force 'was built up by For both part-time and full-time job 230 and th~s year the Government aims seekers, Victoria and New South Wales to build it up by 330. A lot of money are level at 6·1 per cent. Despite the has also been spent on advertising fact that we have been passing through through the Road Safety and Traffic a comparatively low period, Victor,ia Authority, making use of people whom still has the lowest rate of unemploy­ it is believed will make an i'mpression ment of any State in Australia. on the younger age group. The likeli­ In the past year there has also been hood of being involved in an accident a fillip to retail sales, and the increase if one is between the ages of 18 and for the last quarter was 4·4 per cent, 24 years :is about five times as great as which would work out at 17 per cent the risk if one is between the ages of or 'more on a yearly basis. That is a 30 and 49 years. These young people far greater growth than that enjoyed would otherwise have their lives ahead in Victoria in recent years. of them, so it 'is imperative to do every­ thing possible to encourage safer driving AB those figures suggest 'an encour­ on the roads, at the same time as con­ ageing trend, a trend that must be structing better roads. maintained and a trend that the Gov­ ernment intends to maintain, but it lis As I 'mentioned during question time absolutely clear from what I said this morning, the road toll in Victoria earlier that Victoria will need to work dropped dramatically last year-from harder in the 1980s to achieve the same 840 to 660. It was alarming to discover Mr Thompson 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5805 in January this year that the figure was heading, The Government is confident twenty higher than the figure for the that because of its new policies and previous year. In January 1980, 45 the alppointment of new Ministers in people were killed on our roads but 'in key portrolios we can look forward to January this year 65 people were killed. continuing development in this State in The Govern,ment will be -making every the 1980s. We reject the motion. possible effort, in conjunction with members of the Opposition, to ensure Mr AMOS (Morwell)-We have just that the road toll does not exceed last heard one of the most pathetic defences year's record ,JoW'Of 660. At the moment of a want-of-confidence motion any the figure lis 16 higher than it was for Parliament in this country has ever the sa-me period last year. Some people heard. I though we were scraping the argue 'that it would be im:possible te bottom of the barrel when Ithe Premier further reduce the toll, but I do not be­ replied to the Leader of the Opposition, Heve that is so. I believe the concen­ but I was wrong. I shall now go over trated efforts of road safety -authorities, a few 'Of the Iremarks made by the Trea­ Governments, the police, members 'Of surer in his contribution to the debate. ParHament and members of the media The Treasurer said there is no need can further reduce the loss of life and for a motion of want of confidence and suffering caused by road accidents. he said tha't Victorians wiH have to I mention this matter because I am work harder during the 1980s. One sup­ sure that every honourable member poses that he hopes Victorians will knows of somebody who has suffered work 'hard, particularly those many great -grief or considerable personal in­ thousands of Victerians who are now jury because of a road acoident that being denied employment and do not might have been able to be avoided. I even have jobs at which to work, sim· particularly commend the Road Safety ply because of the Government's in­ and Traffic Authority on 'its research action and incompetence. He blamed figures, which constantly throw up the Viictoria's tax reimbursement share for reasons why accidents are occurring, the State's ills and said a proposal he the type of people involved in them, the put forward would provide Victoria roads on which they occur and the with an additional $350 million. What hours during which they are most likely a cheek! Imagine -how his colleagues in to occur. Canberra laughed when they heard his subm1ission because they know this Mr Ginifer-What about the con­ Government and this Treasurer are pre­ sumption of a'lcohol? pared to waste $1000 miUion on one Mr THOMPSON-That is right. The company alone, Alcoa of Austral'ia Ltd. figures indicate that only 2 per cent of In the lifeHme of that company's drivers on the reads at anyone ,time smelter at Portland, the Government is have blood alcohol content of more prepared to squander $1000 million of than '05, but 22 per cent of drivers in­ Victoria's funds. Any Treasurer re­ jured are above ·05 and nearly 50 per sponsible for that sort 'Of mismanage­ cent of drivers killed 'are above ,05. Of ment cannot blame the tax rei,mburse­ those killed 'On Friday and Saturday ment share and a Federal Government nights, the figure is as high as 74 per that is of the sa'me political colour as cent. I am pleased to say that last year this Government for this State's ills. that category fell from 74 per cent to The Treasurer went on to say that 63 per -cent. AB the efforts are worth perhaps quality of life issues, such as while 'and I have mentioned this matter pollution control, should be re-examined during this debate 'to justify the Gov­ during the 1980s because the Govern­ ernment's emphasis on this important ments wants to cut out red tape and issue. encourage development. The Treasurer The debate, in general, has been use­ believes some of those quality of life ful, because it has concentrated on the issues may be retarding development. I is-sues thatmaUer, the future of this remind the Treasurer of the situation State, and the direction in which it is in the Latrobe Valley, where the State's 5806 Want oj Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY energy resources come from and where figures for Victoria were the lowest in 85 per cen't 'of the State's electricity is Australia when official Australian Bureau generated. He should talk to the people of Statistics figures contradict that con­ in the Latrobe Valley about the quality tention. He spoke of family savings of life in that ,area in the 1970s. amongst Victorians being the highest He should ask them what they think in Australia, as that was the only sav­ about the Government's inaction in ing grace he could put forward. He the area of .pollution control and what spoke of bankruptcies and wanted a they think about the State Electricity starting point to look at them. Commission and the way 'in which Of course, the figures tabled by the that ,authority has stood over the Leader of the Opposition today in mov­ Government in its conflict with the ing the want-of-confidence motion are Envdronment Protection Authority. based on a common starting point. They Quality of life issues, indeed! The are comparable figures and were pro­ Deputy Premier blamed trade unionists perly put forward in the debate. Bank­ for the obvious ills and for all of the ruptcies in Victoria, are the highest in reasons Victorians say they have no Australia, a statement supported by the confidence in the Liberal Government. Australian Bureau of Statistics and I have not yet heard the Deputy Pre­ other figures. The Deputy Premier and mier and Treasurer praise a living Treasurer understands those figures unionist-I have heard many pious re­ and the Premier knows full well that marks in eulogies about trade union­ it is no use trying to hide under the ists who have passed away. guise that he wanted a common starting The Deputy Premier spoke of indus­ point. trial relations and blamed trade union­ The Premier said he did not agree ists for the difficulties and immense with a resources tax. That is a hypo­ problems caused by the Government's critical remark coming from a Premier poor industrial relations efforts at Loy who has imposed a resources tax on the Yang, which have cost the State many State Electricity Commission and the millions of dollars. He gave a comparI­ Gas and Fuel Corporation and who son about the teeming Chinese in Hong only recently increased the resources Kong. I .ask him whether he would tax of the Gas and Fuel Corporation have Victorians living as those Chinese to 8 cents in the $1. The Premier has live in Hong Kong-is that what he the cheek to say that he does not wants for workers in the State? If so, agree with a resources tax and asks he should say so and tell Victorians where the Labor Party stands on a that he would want them wor~ing like resources tax. The duplicity and pious coolies and living in shanty towns. remarks of the Premier take the cake I refer to his other remarks about for hypocrisy. They are designed to irreparable harm to the State by trade shift the emphasis of public interest unionists because of strikes and remind away from the way in which he rips him of the most costly industrial dis­ off every gas and electricity consumer pute in Victoria, the Loy Yang dispute, through the Government's own re­ where the incompetence of his former sources tax. colleague and the Government caused The Premier added that it was no an industrial dispute that cost millions good talking about electricity tariffs of dollars to Victoria. The digital man and blaming the State Electricity Com­ -the man with the retentive memory­ mission because electricity tariffs be­ has done so much with figures and ing applied to the proposed aluminium has twisted the figures to suit his Gov­ smelter at Alcoa of Australia Ltd ernment's case. That was the contribu- are correct and will cover the cost of tion of the Deputy Premier. . production. I am amazed that the Pre­ The Premier has been described as mier continues to peddle that lie be­ the caretaker of the only cemetery with cause, when he had the opportunity of lights on in the Southern Hemisphere, having an independent economic re­ the City of Melbourne. His contribution search unit of his own department to to the debate was that unemployment assess the State Electricity Commis- Mr Amos 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5807 sion's tariff, when he was requested by agreement-agreement reached without that unit to so assess that tariff, he proper debate in the Parliament and the refused to allow the unit to do so and community, particularly those commu­ instead relied on the information pro­ nities most affected by brown coal de­ vided to him by his former Minister, velopment such as central Gippsland. a former Minister so discredited that he One can imagine that there will be has left the Ministry, and the figures arguments for and against liquefaction. provided to him by the State Electricity Certainly, there would be stronger Commisison, an instrumentality so dis­ arguments against liquefaction if it credited that even the Federal Treasury meant the export of production over­ questioned the correctness of the seas when the rationale, the reason for authority's information on electricity such projects is to provide for the time charges-it is an organization so dis­ our dwindling reserves in Bass Strait credited that the Opposition has proven run out. That does not make sense. on occasion after occasion that the Yet one of those companies that the authority has deliberately misled Parlia­ Premier proudly boasts he has reached ment in its annual reports and has mis­ a preliminary agreement behind-c1osed­ led and lied to Minister after Minister, doors has publicly announced it will Government official after Government eventually want to export 50 per cent official, about its financial position, its of its production in the central Gipps­ industrial relations and its capacity to land region. meet energy supply demands in this State. Is that what the Government wants Those points were proven when the to give Victoria? Is that the develop­ subject was debated in Parliament in ment of Victoria to benefit Victoria? the last sessional period, yet the Pre­ Will it provide for the oil needs of the mier has continued to rely on the dis­ State and the nation? Will it provide credited information provided by a for the job opportunities the Govern­ former colleague in Cabinet and the ment claims based on its directions State Electricity Commission about policies for the 1980s? tariff M option 5 which all persons I repeat the remarks of the Deputy know, because of the independent Leader of the Opposition and say clear­ assessments being carried out, is well ly that before the Government goes below the cost of production-some further in that area and certainly be­ say more than half a cent below the fore any boasts can be made, there cost of prouction; to a point where must be full, frank, open Ministerial approximately $37 million a year will statement and debate in Parliament be given to Alcoa of Australia L td in so that Victoria knows precisely where an electricity and gas subsidy if the it is heading. same rate applies when the smelter That has not occurred. What are reaches stage 4. the areas that convince members of The Premier talked of brown coal the Opposition that the Government and stated that brown coal was really does not possess the confidence of the the saving grace of the Government's Parliament or of the Victorian people? actions, that this plentiful resource It is worth while repeating the five referred to the other day by his new main features. The first is the fact Minister for Minerals and Energy as that Victoria's economy is currently in Victoria's wonderful resource was go­ the worst recession since the great ing to save Victoria and provide a depression. The second is that Vic­ springboard for all the jobs needed for toria's unemployment problem is de­ development in the 1980s. He then teriorating, while Australia's is im­ went on to refer to preliminary agree­ proving. The third is that Victoria's ments. I am not suggesting pre­ chances of economic recovery are being liminary agreements were reached with jeopardized by incompetent energy those four companies mentioned by the planning. The fourth is that Victoria's Premier, but honourable members public transport system is grinding to are aware that two are subject to such a halt; that was demonstrated tOday 5808 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY in the Melbourne Herald. The fifth is ber of unemployed people in Victoria that the Government is incapable of looking for work rose by 2·3 per cent, making decisions and of sticking to in New South Wales it fell by 3'1 per them; yesterday's debacle in Qoth cent and for the whole of Australia it Liberal Party meetings amply demon­ fell by 2·3 per cent. In November 1980 strated that pOint. the true number of unemployed people When moving the motion of want of competing for each job vacancy in Vic­ confidence in the Government, the toria was 22 people, compared with 15 Leader of the Opposition tabled a list in New South Wales and 21 for all of of statistics which clearly showed that Australia. That is not a satisfactory Victoria's economy and position are the figure for the Premier or the Govern­ worst in Australia. I invite honourable ment to boast about. They should be members to consider a few of the worst thoroughly ashamed of it. features. In the area of total bankrupt­ In the construction industry an analy­ cies for the year ended 30 June last, sis of the Federal Government's list Australia had an annual percentage shows that Victoria will host only 6·6 increase of 29'1 per cent, New South per cent of the mining investment Wales had an increase of 12·2 per cent compared with 10'1 per cent in South but Victoria had an annual percentage Australia, 16'9 per cent in New South increase of 61·7 per cent. For unpaid Wales, 26 per cent in Queensland and bankruptcy debts in the same period, 36·7 per cent in Western Australia. Australia's increase was 8·2 per cent, Again, Victoria is at the bottom of the New South Wales had a decline of 37'3 list. That may not be surprising, but it per cent and Victoria had an increase is surprising that Victoria, once Aus­ of 93·6 per cent. tralia's premier industrial State, has From the same table, for the same attracted only 12 per cent of manufac­ period, in relation to building and con­ turing investment, compared with 19·8 struction bankruptcies the annual per­ per cent to Western Australia, 27·1 per centage change Australian total was up cent to Queensland and 32·3 per cent by 24·3 per cent, the New South Wales to New South Wales. total was down by 6·3 per cent and the I have already referred to bankrupt­ Victorian total was up by 62·9 per cent. cies from the official list as tabled by That clearly indicates the economic the Leader of the Opposition, but it is mess into which this Government has interesting to note that in addition, led the State. In the area of retail during 1979-80, the numbers of bank­ sales, as at 30 September last, the ruptcies and orders for administration Australian percentage change was up in bankruptcy of the estates of by 12·6 per cent, New South Wales was deceased debtors rose by 61·7 per cent up by 13'4 per cent and Victoria was for Victoria but 12·2 per cent for New up by only 11·6 per cent. South Wales and the Australian Capi­ The Deputy Premier and Treasurer tal Territory and 29'1 per cent for the spoke about new passenger vehicle whole of Australia. Compared with the registrations. The official figures-the previous year, Victoria had more bank­ only real base on which to provide ruptcies than New South Wales and the competent figures-show that as at 31 Australian Capital Territory. The figures December last, the annual percentage were: Victoria, 1 235 000; New South change Australian figure dropped by Wales and the Australian Capital Ter­ 1·6 per cent, New South Wales was ritory combined, 1 215000. up by 0'2 per cent and Victoria dropped In the housing field the shadow Min­ by 7·5 per cent, clearly an indicator ister of Housing will point to the areas that something is drastically wrong in in which the Government is being most Victoria. neglectful and irresponsible in provid­ The Premier spoke about unemploy­ ing for the housing needs of Victoria. ment, and the official figures of the The Premier and the Deputy Premier Australian Bureau of Statistics clearly were the two Government members show that in January of 1981 the num- to speak before me in this debate. They Mr Amos 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5809 should note that during 1979-80 the announcement were made by the Gov­ number of new dwellings commenced ernment. In the annual report of APM rose by 1·2 per cent in Victoria as Ltd it is stated that the company is against 20·6 per cent in New South conducting detailed studies into the Wales and 11·7 per cent for the whole feasibility of a major expansion of its of Australia, over the previous year. pulping capacity at Maryvale mill in the In the area of new dwellings com­ Latrobe Valley in Victoria. It goes on pleted in the same period, the number to say that, when completed, this will fell by 3·6 per cent in Victoria, but cost in excess of $150 million and that rose by 20'4 per cent in New South it will directly create 300 new perman­ Wales and 10·4 per cent for the whole ent jobs. When was that announce­ of Australia. It is no wonder that the ment made? Was it made after the new bankruptcies in the building industry directions announcement by the Gov­ for 1979-80 were up by 62·9 per cent ernment was issued? Was it made some in Victoria, and fell by 6'3 per cent in time in December? No; it was made New South Wales and the Australian in the 1980 annual report of APM Ltd. Capital Territory. The decision was taken by that com­ Those figures indicate the serious pany well before this fraud of a Prem­ difficulty this State is facing as a result ier, this fraud of a Government, an­ of the mismanagement and incompet­ nounced anything like a new directions ence of the Hamer Liberal Government. policy and tried to claim credit for it. Honorable members then hear about the The other matter referred to was the so-called new direction poliCies for the shopping complex. If I were the Prem­ eighties. They are told to forget about ier or a member of the Government, the seventies and the quality of life I would not boast loudly about that issues and difficulties and to concen­ shopping complex in Traralgon, be­ trate on the eighties and what can be cause not only was the application sub­ done to get Victorians working again. mitted by one of those fly-by-night two­ Worn out old policies are again trotted bob companies that just happens to out. They have been brought out time have got its registration the day before and again and are not new. The media, it submitted its application-and I this House and the people of Victoria challenge the Government to do a com­ question the authenticity of those so­ pany search and also find those facts called new direction policies and realize for itself-but this also occurred prior that they are only rehashed, failed to the announcement of a new direc­ election policies of previous campaigns tions policy by the Premier and the by this Liberal Government. The Gov­ Government. ernment grasps at straws and says, "Here is a new development that has In any event, if one looks at the been the result of the new direction application in Traralgon, one sees that approach by the Government". Last serious doubts arise about wnether the week an announcement was made by Government ought to have agreed to Australian Paper Manufacturing Co. of allow the development to occur. We all a giant expansion programme at Mary­ know that on 13 November last the vale in the Latrobe Valley and it was Government issued a press release announced that a shopping complex which. stated that all non-metropolitan would be constructed in Traralgon. The councIls were to advertise applications Premier claimed that these were as a for la~ge retail complexes. Even though result of the Government's new direc­ the City of Traralgon, on the third ap­ tion policy, and that they indicated plicat~on . from the same development what was to come as a result of that orgamzatIon, accepted the application new changed approach. after receiving the Government's an­ nouncement of the new policy of ad­ I refer the House to a press release vertising applications, and issued a per­ and the 1980 annual report of APM Ltd rt,lit, it failed t~ advertise the applica­ which were published well before any tIon. The Premier was hOist with his new directions, decisions and policy own petard, claiming that this marvel- 5810 Want oj Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY lous new development, if it is indeed per, planned and systematic way, and marvellous, came as a result of the a great deal more must be done to­ Government's policy. wards energy resource management in It is a shabby trick and a shabby this State. application, one that raises a lot of There are alternatives which the doubt and one that ought to have been Premier called for when he spoke about advertised in the local community so wanting alternatives put forward. They that all could understand and appre­ have been put forward in previous de­ ciate what was being proposed. The bates and will be put forward in de­ application failed to comply with a de­ bates to come, when we clearly show cision taken by the Government, and the people of Victoria that a Labor it is one upon which the Minister for Government has the policies, the op­ Planning refused to act, in contrast to tions and alternatives to take us into the direction issued to metropolitan the 1980s, to provide jobs and jobs councils, so there is the record. from growth, quality of life and all I shall conclude my remarks on this those things that are sadly lacking in aspect, because the Premier spoke at the State today. I therefore commend some . length about Victoria's energy the motion to the House and call upon resources and claimed that that was all honourable members to support it. going to be the springboard of a new Mr ROSS-EDW ARDS (Leader of the attack in the 1980s to provide jobs National Party) -No more serious mo­ from growth. He knows that there has tion can be moved against a Govern­ not been proper energy management ment than one which seeks a vote of in this State. You know, Mr Deputy no confidence. I decided with some re­ Speaker, of the previous conflict be­ gret to enter this debate. I say that tween the Gas and Fuel Corporation, bearing in mind that the National Party the State Electricity Commission and, has given generous support to succes­ indeed, the Ministry. You know, Mr sive Liberal Governments over the last Deputy Speaker, that we do not have 25 years. It has done this because it any proper State energy authority in is a free enterprise party with a basic Victoria, even though it is clear that philosophy similar to that of the LiOeral one is desperately needed. Party. The Premier even went to the pOint of saying that we have so much brown However, I hasten to add that there coal in Victoria that we do not even is a significant difference in the Na­ know how much we have, as if that tional Party's priorities, style and ap­ were something to be proud of. That proach to government. The National statement is something to be ashamed Party is not part of government, and, of, because even though the Geological as an independent political party, its Survey Division of the Department of members have an obligation to their Minerals and Energy would have the constituents and to the people of Vic­ capacity and the properly trained staff toria to vote on matters in the House to enable it to assess thoroughly the on their merits. The obvious proof of energy reserves of this State, it has the poor standing of the Victorian not been able to do so because of the Government is the fact that its tradi­ Government's incompetence. The Gov­ tional supporters, members of the Mel­ ernment has consistently ignored the bourne business community, are its energy question, save for wanting to strongest critics today. The issues on issue public relations comments from which the Government stands con­ time to time. demned, ironically enough, arise from problems created by the Government. I shall conclude in the remaining 2 I refer, of course, to the Melbourne minutes available to me by saying that City Council. That is a problem that because the Government has ignored has been facing the Government for the whole question of energy and of years. The council is half-way through assessing Victoria's energy resources, a redistribution programme but has not this ought now to be done in a pro- finished it. It is not a matter of Mr Amos 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5811 whether the Melbourne City Council is the Government representative should a good or a bad council; it is a ques­ be told what to do. The Government tion of the way in which the Govern­ made excuses and said it could not ment handles it. help it if he does not do what the We attended constitutional conven­ Government wants. He is independent tions and made great play in our Con­ and can do what he pleases. He did stitution about mal{ing local govern­ not please the Government in this case. ment an arm of government. Assur­ Melbourne and Victoria are crying ances have been given by Ministers out for a convention centre. Melbourne that proper inquiries will take place is geographically well situated for one before a council is dismissed. Preced­ and has an international airport. Aus­ ents have occurred in the councils of tralia has no convention centre at pre­ Sunshine and Keilor, and the National sent. Victoria could have been the first Party supported the Government after State to have one, but it will not be having read the reports of those the first and heaven knows when Vic­ inquiries. toria will have a convention centre! We have an extraordinary situation Members of the Government front with the Melbourne City Council that bench and back bench cannot make up no inquiry has been conducted and no their minds. reason was given for the Government's I shall deal with transport. The Gov­ action. The National Party waits to ernment has been in office for 25 years hear the reasons why the Melbourne so it cannot blame anybody else. The City Council is to be dismissed. railway system is deteriorating to such The other political blunder that the an extent that VicRail and the Govern­ Government made was that, if it were ment admit that it is at the point of going to dismiss the Melbourne City no return. The Premier said today that Council without reason and without an the deficit is in excess of $220 million inquiry, it should have done so in the for the year. Little money is to be last week of December. Here we are spent on upkeeping the railway system. in mid-March and the dismissal of the The proposal is to shut lines and hire council is still a fortnight away at the buses, getting somebody else to run best. The Lord Mayor and the council the buses instead of using the trains are continuing in office, making deci­ which the Government owns. Capital sions. spending money, and for three is disappearing. If a person is the months the Government has stood by owner of a home and decides to sell and watched them doing it. The Gov­ that home and rent one somewhere ernment could have dismissed the coun­ else, he may well go bankrupt. What cil on the Monday or Tuesday before Victoria has inherited for generations Christmas but did not do so, saying is being thrown away. A few years ago it was not ready to do so. It will be the Government decided to treat the at least another fortnight before any­ underground loop as the first priority thing happens. That is the first prob­ for railways in Victoria. The Opposition lem which the Government has itself is just as much to blame for this. The created. Government made a mistake. If that I shall deal with the Teachers Tribunal money had been spent on rolling-stock decision to grant school principals a and track maintenance, Victoria would 15 per cent salary increase. The Gov­ have had a much better system today. ernment has always maintained that the The underground is a good develop­ umpire's decision should be obeyed. ment now that it is working, but it The tribunal's decision is not being should not have been the first priority. obeyed now. The Victorian Parliament That is now very obvious. should not be the umpire; the Teachers Victoria has been through a series Tribunal is umpire. The Government of Housing Commission scandals. I will will not instruct the Government repre­ not mention that unsavoury chapter sentative in this matter. During the again, but Ministers know that the 1970s I requested time and again that Housing Commission still has housing 5812 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY scandals. Hundreds of people in Hous­ tralia. It would be in the category of ing Commission homes are not paying Tasmania and South Australia and the rent and the Government is doing noth­ press, which is making a great fuss ing about it. It has been continuing about the deterioration in the econo­ for years. mic situation in Victoria at present, did not have a word to say about the mat­ Victoria is tne prostitution capital of ter two years ago, but it was obvious Australia. It has been pointed out to to anyone who studied the economic the Government, that the Minister for signs at that time. Employment and Training lives in the centre of the prostitution area. I am satisfied that despite undertak­ ings by the Premier, the new Minister Mr Roper-He visits them, too! for Economic Development is about to Mr ROSS-EDW ARDS-He did make slash key staff in the area of decentral­ an unfortunate visi t to one of these ization in country Victoria. A great deal houses one night. What is the Govern­ has been done in provincial cities and ment's answer? The problem is given towns. I know that from my own area to the Minister for Planning to solve where there have been success stories. as a planning matter. However, there is We owe a great deal to the staff in no suggestion of the Government get­ the Ministry of State Development, De­ ting rid of prostitution on moral centralization and Tourism. However, grounds. The Government simply if the new Minister starts by cutting wants to move it out of St Kilda to out the most successful part of his another place. department, he will live to regret the I am repeating some of the remarks day. I made yesterday, but they are vital All is not bad in Victoria! The matters. The most serious matter for Premier mentioned home ownership, a businessman is that the business home savings and unemployment, and community does not have access to I agree with him. However, the pOint Cabinet. Apart from the Premier, Min­ I want to make is that the outstanding isters are not well known, except may­ features of life in Victoria have been be the Treasurer and one or two other present for a long time. They simply Ministers. Time and again people ask did not come about under the Hamer me who Ministers are and say they Government or the Bolte Government. have never met them. It is a serious They have been gradually built up over problem. The whole future of a com­ many years. However, what Victorians pany may depend on it and it may have are scared of and what is happening is no way of contacting the Government. that Victoria's relative position is deter­ All these companies are offered is a iorating and that is happening in unem­ telephone call on a phonothon. It is ployment. Victoria still compares well a serious state of affairs and every with other States but that position has other Government of which I am aware been deteriorating over the past is comprised of strong characters who eighteen months. To some extent Vic­ know the business community and can toria is living on the fat of yesteryear. be approached through the appropriate I pay tribute to the Government and Minister. Some of the stories about the the Premier for road safety measures. Ministers in question cannot be re­ peated because, if they were not so Mr Roper-That is not part of the tragic they would be laughable. new directions. There has been a continuing deter­ Mr ROSS-EDWARDS-The Treasurer ioration in the economic situation in mentioned this today. If a Government Victoria over the past four or five reduces the road toll by 22 per cent years. That was evident at the last or 23 per cent in one year, that is an State election. I pointed it out in a outstanding success story, not only for policy speech on behalf of the National the Government, but also for the Party. I forecasted that Victoria would Deputy Premier and those responsible. become one of the poor States of Aus- I commend them. 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5813 The road toll had an unfortunate govern. The Government must also re­ start in January but the Deputy Premier gain the confidence of the public. When said that the rate is creeping back­ Government policies are announced in wards and it is now only sixteen deaths the future, the public will want some worse than last year. It is a serious assurance that the plans will materia­ state of affairs but it has improved in lize. There is no point in making an the past two or three weeks. announcement unless one is certain that I accept the fact that Victoria is a something is going to happen, and wealthy State and that there could be things simply have not been happening a turn around in the economic situa­ up to the present. tion. I sincerely hope that it takes place The Government has announced that sho·rtly. It could come about through agricultural production will increase by the better performance of the Govern­ 25 per cent. To do that, of course, .it ment but if it does not perform better, will be necessary to have the markets, deterioration will continue. I give an but ,an increase of 25 'Per cent will not undertaking that I, together with other take place by accident. There wHI have honourable members of the National le be some Government input. I refer Party, will work to ensure that the particularly to the 'irrigation areas. turn around takes place. I have mentioned the economic situa­ The Treasurer said that industrial tion. What Victoria needs .is a razor problems have had a crippling effect on gang. I do not suggest ,that it should the Victorian industry. The Opposition be a razor gang of Ministers-I should could play an increasing part in bring­ prefer them to be out 'Of it-but there ing about industrial peace. All of us are sections of State Government de­ have an obligation to do so. The Oppo­ partments that could well be done away sition has a close association with the with. I am not ,talking about scaUng trade union movement and it can do down, I am talking about getting rid more than the Government or the of some sections of some State de­ National Party. I appeal to Opposition part'ments. members for the sake of Victoria and Mr Cathie--You are siding with the of Australia to play an improved part Ministers. in bringing about industrial peace be­ cause industrial trouble benefits nobody. Mr ROSS-EDW ARDS-I am not. If It creates division, it creates poverty the Government is to have an inquiry, and lit creates unemployment. The I should prefer a single person inqui'ry Government, on the other hand, hoas to so that everybody 'would have the op­ show ,more strength in dealing with in­ portuni,ty of making submissions sug­ dustrial quarrels. I mentioned the gesting where savings cou'ld be made. Qanta's exercise last night and I shall From time to time we all want addi­ not repeat that. This Government did tional 'money spent and we harrass not come out of the Loy y.ang problem Ministers for extra funding, but if there very well and I trust that that situa­ is to be extra funding the money must tion will not occur 'again. be obtained in other ways and there is room for improvement by cutting Mr Simpson-Do you support the down on the w'aste expenditure in this m'arch tOday? State. Mr ROSS-EDWARDS-I will support Everybody in Victoria is heartily s,ick anything that helps to bring about in­ of Government public relations promo­ dustrial peace. What is needed in VIic­ tions. I know they are common to toria 'at present is strong government. governments of all political colours all The first thing we need is further Cabi­ over Australia at 'Present, and there are net changes. The reshuffle and the some experts in the field. The Victorian changes did not go far enough. There Government is merely trying to emulate should be ,greater leadership by Cabinet. some of the other Premiers. The phone­ Members of the Cabinet are elected by in held by the Minister for Economic the Liberal Party to Igovern the Sta'te Development w'a's hamfisted and insult­ and they have to get out in front and ing to his fellow Ministers and to public 5814 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY servants. The idea of a phone-in was required to enable this State to pro­ not bad, but 'it should have not been ceed appropriately to provide ·the 'stan­ carried out by an individual Minister on dard of Hving its citizens desire for the his own initiative in order to secure future. There is 'absolutely no doubt that points; it should have been done by the the events that have occurred 1n recent Department of the Premier. If that had ti'mes, since the announcement of the been done a proper assessment of what new directions, have not displayed the the public had to say could have been will, the ability and the unity that is made, but I do not believe that we wHI required. obtain an accurate assessment of what The Government 'has to take note of w'as said in aB those phone calls. It this debate and recognize that, unless should have been carried out by the it does take note 'of the comments that Department of the Premier, because it have been made :by the Leader of the would then have been done a,t 'a frac­ National Party and of some of the tion of the 'cost 'and would not have matters raised by honourable ,members been used to promote a particular Min­ on both sides of the House, Victorians ister in ,the Premiership stakes of the will not 'get the future they deserve future. and the future that the resources of There is much that is good in the Viictoria should be able to provide for Government's new directions policy and them. There is no doubt that whoever that policy has the over-all support of wrote the editorial ,in the Herald stating the NaNonal Party. However, the real that the Government 'has to get its ,act question, of course, 'is whether the together 'is absolutely on the ball. Government has the will, the ability The ,members of this Government, and the unity-I emphasize the word from the Premier down, have to under­ "unity"-to make these objectives stand that we face, in terms of pro­ m'aterialize. The motion by the Leader portionate relativity, a question of of ,the Opposition lis supported by mem­ whether the new direc,tions that 'have bers of the National Party. We support been announced will 'survive because, it because of the Government's poor if they are not supported by the Gov­ perform'ance 'in recent months. If the ernment and by the members of the Government were to go to the polls at party that supports the Government, :the present, in my view, it would not they have no hope of surviving. That be returned to the Government benches is one of the critical ·issues ,that this in 'its own right. That is my honest as­ debate deservedly brings to the fore­ sessment and it is an assessment that front. I am concerned, both in my posi­ is shared, generally speaking, by the tion as the honourable member repre­ members of the business community in senting the electorate of St Ki'lda and Melbourne. They are very worried about as Minister for Employment ·and Train­ it. In my view, this justifies the attitude ing and Minister for Youth, Sport and taken by the National Party in this Recreation about remarkably serious debate. consequences for the people of Victoria. Mr DIXON (Minister for Employment It 'is all very well to talk about the and Training) -This debate has been way in which the world has changed. important in terms of the future of Of course things are 'changing and of Victoria for the next decade. It is a course things are ·happening in the rest pity that more honourable members of the world we cannot control, as they from all sides of the House are not are in the rest of Australia. present to hear 'what is being said. One of the things that is happening I congratulate 'the Leader of the in the rest of the world is that techno­ National 'Party, who I believe both logy is 'advancing at an ·absolutely enor­ last night and today has put his finger mous rate and the two countries that on some extremely serious issues fac­ are taking advantage of that increase ing this State and the G<>vernment of in technology are the United States of this State. He commented about the A'merica and Japan, followed by the will, the ability and the unity that are European Economic Community. Vic- 11 March 1981 ] Want of Confidence in Government 5815 toria and Australia were described by a belief in oneself is derived from a the Deputy Leader of the Opposition as message that is believable and one that having one of the most skilled and en­ contains hope. Coupled with a spirit terprising work forces in the world, of entrepreneurialship is a spirit of but it is not sharing in those techno­ leadership and understanding in leader­ logical advances. ship. We have to ask ourselves the rea­ Victoria's future lies with the abili­ sons why-I will come to them shortly ties, wills and spirits of the community. and pinpoint the ways in which the That involves an understanding of objectives can be achieved-because what the Government is doing in terms unless we do that we will sit back here of training in the community, and I and watch the resource rich States of have some Ministerial responsibilities Australia have a greater capacity to in that direction. Victoria's education enjoy higher standards of living than system does not enable children to Victoria, given that there are no new face up to real life issues as they resource discoveries in Victoria-al­ stand today. Something must be done though that is one of the possibilities, to improve the capacity of children to of course. The discovery of new re­ enjoy their leisuretime pursuits and, sources has been one of the fortunate more significantly, their capacity to things throughout the history of this obtain jobs that they will enjoy and country. Whenever there has been some which will enable them to make a sort of problem or crisis, new resources contribution towards the community's have come along,and it -may be that fulfilment and their own fulfilment. The new resources will be found in Victoria, education system, as it currently but that is not something to depend on stands, does not do that. because to some extent it is an act of The White Paper on educational God. Of course, it also depends on hav­ strategies and structures is essentially ing the geologists, biologists, physicists a definition of education administration. and so on at one's disposal, working in That paper is not devoted to the key both the private sector and in Govern­ questions of what should be taught, ment, to make sure that, if the re­ how it is to be taught, how the com­ sources are there, they can be dis­ munity will become involved, how in­ covered. dustry will become involved and how I regard the debate as a serious one. the students themselves will learn a I regard the matters that have been spirit of entrepreneurialship. Those raised as ones that will affect the com­ issues are critical to education upon munity of Victoria in the coming dec­ which not only Victoria but also Aus­ ade and I want to make suggestions as tralia depends if Australia is to either to what I believe are the important survive or perish in terms of economic issues in determining whether or not viability. Victoria marches forward in a spirit of unity and uses its ability. The economics of the question are that the wage and labour rates of Asia Victoria needs a spirit of entrepre­ are such that those countries can con­ neurialship, and a spirit of confidence is sistently undercut Australia in the a critically important factor in achiev­ normal areas of manufacturing. Vic­ ing this. I would enjoin all honourable toria can no longer rely upon strai~ht members to understand that confidence protection policies. The facts of the is the keynote in whether Victoria balance of payments with a resource moves forward. If it is to someone's boom are that if Australia is to export political advantage that that confidence to the degree it has, it will also have be destroyed, one must then under­ to import. What is Australia going to stand the situation of politics within import? One must look to tne Third the over-all framework of where the World. which will produce the things community is going. All honourable Australia will import. However, if Aus­ members should understand that Vic­ tralia imports those goods, where does toria needs a belief in itself and that that leave Victoria's traditional 5816 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY strength? It leaves those traditional Those sorts of powers exist in the strengths having either to compete by State of California. If one has specific improved technology or to gradually projects, which are judged by the leg­ restructure the economy. islature to be of really significant im­ It is absolutely critical that the portance, the whole Act can be speeded economy be gradually restructured. up. Undoubtedly Victoria needs that That will demand a fresh appraisal of sort of legislation and there can be what is done with education, research no doubt that under the Minister for and information gathering. Those are Economic Development that type of critical issues and that is what the legislation will be developed. debate about the next ten years ought The red tape that is involved in a to be. wide range of Government departments Mr B. J. Evans-The next ten years must be ruthlessly examined in an is about here and now. endeavour to determine where areas of responsibility can be improved. Last Mr DIXON-Every step one takes year in Canada approximately $350 contributes to what happens in the million was saved by a new approach next ten years and every second of to the paper warfare. The Government one's time has the same contribution. will adopt a similar ruthless appraisal Right now in Victoria the Government of the paper warfare. is faced with the issue of which direc­ tion to take. I am very much involved The Leader of the National Party in that choice and I propose to outline raised some important issues concern­ what I think is the right direction to ing the balanced development of the take. State and decentralization and where development must occur. There can In terms of economic efficiency, there be no doubt that what occurred in can be no doubt that the Minister for Victoria in terms of balanced develop­ Economic Development must be given ment and its decentralization has been the support of the House to make some to the substantial advantage of Vic­ changes because what has occurred in toria. However, there is the question terms of Victoria's economic develop­ of the development of Melbourne and ment in the past few years has not the Melbourne business community and been good enough. The economic devel­ the appraisal by the Government in opment must be improved by some of terms of the development of projects the processes that the Deputy Leader that are involved in making Melbourne of the Government spoke about in a greater city. Those issues involve terms of the planning mechanisms that taxation policies and are the subject must be analysed. of a review by the Minister for Eco­ Anyone who picks up a document nomic Development. I support tha"t that is handed out by a municipal coun­ view. That is not to say that the sorts cil and looks at the paraphernalia of of advantages that have been given controls and appeals and all the rest in terms of the over-all decentraliza­ of it involved before one can move tion policy have in any way to be in any direction in terms of a regional disturbed. development would understand that The Leader of the Opposition raised some improvements must be made. It the question of regional planning auth­ has been imagined that the Govern­ orities for local areas. It is important ment is able to do all of the necessary that there are eighteen administrative things to encourage people to be in­ regions. There has to be a coming volved in the decision-making process. together of the physical and social However, as a matter of degree some­ resource planning of the State within one must decide whether one has gone those areas. Whether that is done by too far in one direction or another. a formal joining of municipalities and The Minister for Economic Develop­ formal support services or whether it ment must have some powers to be is done informally by the placement able to speed up decision-making in of particular representatives from the terms of particular projects. various Government departments or all 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5817 of those various areas that may have under preparation by the Employment different requirements, it is critical that and Training Ministry those areas that those regions be given an opportunity require further resources to be capital­ to be involved in their own progress. ized will be adequately covered. The In that sense, all of these Ministries Job Forecast Bureau is a critical area that I have been involved with-Youth, of endeavour by the Government. Sport and Recreation, Social Welfare However, it is not really off the ground. and Community Welfare, Housing and It is a most difficult task to undertake, now Employment and Training-sup­ especially when one analyses the port the need for regions to have input figures. I am sure honourable members in their own development. opposite have examined the DOLAC The Education Department is pro­ report and seen where the alleged gressively moving towards an eighteen scarcities are in the building industry, regional administration. TAFE comes electrical industry, metal trades in­ under the joint administration of the dustry and so on. By themselves those Education Department and my depart­ figures do not stand up to detailed ment. scrutiny and the Government will have The DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr A. T. to do much better. It is not an easy Evans)-Honourable members of the process. An agency has never really Opposition have had an opportunity of existed 'within the country that has contributing to the debate. If they have provided the sort of figures required not, they will have sufficient time in for detailed job forecast research work. which to do so later in the debate. As We must make certain that that is members of the Opposition were heard rectified, and of course, it can be. The in reasonable silence, the same con­ requirement are information, research sideration should be shown to the and people. Minister. Some matters were mentioned by the Mr DIXON-T AFE will be endeavour­ Leader of the National Party on which ing to conform to those administrations I do not wish to heap such praise as I because that is the way in which social did initially. So far as the secondary and physical resources planning can school principals are concerned, Cabinet be achieved. If one does not have the has adopted a responsible approach same types of boundaries, there is no towards the economics of the situation. way in which that sort of planning The quality of life of the Australian can be achieved. community would suffer the ramifica­ Within that context the Employment tions of a 15 per 'cent increase, which and Training Ministry is developing would be extremely harmful. The whole regional, neighbourhood, local and co­ question is: Where does one draw the operative employment programmes. The line? The Minister of Education particular positions, in their embryo Cabinet and the Government believed stages, were announced to a degree by that there was an appropriate line to be myself when I was chairman of the drawn, which was done in accordance Victorian Employment Committee. They with the new directions policy. were also announced by ,the Minister The Leader of the National Party of Labour and Industry. However, also spoke of a convention centre, and further development will be forth­ Victoria will have one. The question is coming. one of time and method. Such a ques­ The extent of these further develop­ tion has to be readdressed by the Gov­ ments plus other initiatives will be ernment in the near future. The -Leader dependent upon the degree to which of the National Party also mentioned the Victorian Government backs its the Housing Commission and the asso­ new directions policy in the Budget. ciated land scandals, it did not do him Last night the Premier said that the a great deal of justice, because the figures that are to be made available honourable member has spoken to me prior to the next Budget will be before about the particular group of adequate. I know that in the budget people to whom he referred, who were 5818 Want 0/ Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY not paying ,their rent. I do not propose ister was providing a living contrast to name them, but I do not believe that with the empty rhetoric of the Premier particular topic bears comment within and the interminable figures of the the context of this debate, nor do I Deputy Premier. The Premier believes suspect does the ,fact that I happened the State is always booming and always to visit a massage parlour one evening getting better. The Premier believes that following the last election in 1979 to any suggestion that Victorians are leav­ thank my constituents for their votes. ing the State is wrong. Honourable mem­ They decided that the proposed bers can recall the Premier publicly policies in their particular area, as stating that people are not leaving announced by the Minister, were appro­ Victoria. priate for them. Strangely enough I An honourabte member interjects agreed with them. The Premier of Vic­ that Victorians are coming back; the toria is a man of vision and of great figures do not suggest that. Victoria is wisdom. It behoves the people of Vic­ losing substantial population and in­ toria and the members of his party to dustry. So far as the Rialto issue is stand behind him and make the decade concerned, the large insurance company ahead better than any other decade. involved simply advised that its future Mr ROPER. (Brunswick)-It is signi­ investments would take place in other ficant that the Minister for Employ­ States. Only recently, the Government's ment and Training made almost his own State Insurance Office was also whole speech with his body turned influenced by bank books and dollars towards his own back bench because and was investing in other States it is clear from what the honourable because of the drift and not the definite gentleman said that he was suggesting purpose to which the Minister for that the problems with the new direc­ Employment and Training referred. tions policy and the Government's Let us examine some of the state­ policies are because the Cabinet and ments made by the Minister for Em­ the Premier cannot carry the party ployment and Training. The Minister room. That is obvious ,from yesterday's bucketed his colleague's education casino decision. The honourable member White Paper and said it was only about for Doncaster says, "Rubbish". However, education administration. He suggested the honourable member was quoted in the . n.eed ~o move towards regional the paper the other day as saying, admmlstratlon. In the portfolio for when discussing the Premier's casino which I have some responsibility. In proposal, that if it went ahead seven the Health Commission there are fifteen Liberal seats would be lost in the outer different sets of regions for the State. eastern suburbs. That 'was a vital issue There is not one set of regions for all and the Cabinet was not able to carry purposes, but fifteen different sets of the party. Indeed, that sort of thing regions in the one commission. Every­ happens again and again. The Govern­ one knows that the State Co-ordination ment -lives through continuous periods Council is a sham. The reports that of drift. The Minister for Employment we receive quarterly are a waste of and Training was making his bid in the trees and a waste of paper. disunity party for leadership of the The State Co-ordination Council is not Opposition. That requires that he falls co-ordinating anything as the Premier into the electorate of Wantirna because should know, but possibly the Premier he will not be representing the elec­ and the Minister for Youth, Sport and torate of St Kilda. I suppose one always Recreation do not know! has the Kew or Malvern ele~torates. There is a suggestion that there will The point the Minister was making be jOint management of technical and was that the Government has ignored further education. That is a bit like the challenges before it for the past the problem which existed some time ten years-ten years of Hamer's waste. ago with child maltreatment when there Rather than showing the Premier as a were two equally responsible Ministers person of wisdom and ability, the Min- and an interdepartmental committee of 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5819 six people, with two chairmen. That vision channels with the model and committee never achieved anything. stating that the proposal would provide The committee could not decide on a an urgently-needed convention centre, time for its meetings. It will be the a convention centre that would include same with technical and further educa­ a casino in the over-all project. The tion as our system of government does project was virtually settled and final­ not allow for there to be a joint control. ized and really, all that honourable One Minister should have that respon­ members were worried about was the sibility, but the Government is into so colour of the glass. Now, two years many other things that it is not pre­ later, absolutely nothing further has pared to make that decision and so happened with that monument. drift is the order of the day. The obtaining of the Olympic Games The same can be said about the in 1988 was seen as a grand monument. Government's decision over the Mel­ Victoria was to have this grand ten-day bourne City Council. While I strongly festival in 1988, but the Federal oppose the decision to remove the coun­ Treasury and everyone else who looked cil, the Melbourne City Council has at the figures produced by the Govern­ been unnecessarily left hanging in the ment found them to be an absolute air for four months. That is the result shambles, and so that project has fallen of crazy administration by the Govern­ by the wayside. ment, especially by a Government Then there was the planning that has which claims that it knows what it is gone into this document, Victoria's doing. Its actions are affecting the Strategy for the Eighties, which in­ main council in this State, that of the cluded the statement that Victoria capital city, and it is absolute nonsense would have a 25 per cent increase in to suggest to people that they should agricultural production in ten years, come and invest in this city when such but then the next day the announce­ a situation prevails. ment was made that it would be 25 I mentioned before that what honour­ years and presumably that depends on able members have before them is a favourable and temperate climate rhetoric from the Premier and statistics producing the right conditions-cer­ from the Treasurer. Let me now tainly Government policy has no control examine a couple of the key aspects over the provision of that facility! of the Government's performance. As the State has lost the opportunity Firstly, it is a Government of monu­ to conduct the 1988 Olympic Games, ments. One of those monuments was it then seeks to have twelve years to the World Trade Centre and with that chase after this ten-day wonderful festi­ project there were reports prepared val as the Government now desires to that were unfavourable to the project go after the 1992 Olympic Games. going ahead, so those reports have Let me now examine other aspects never been presented to the Parliament. of Government and consider the Gov­ For many years there has been a pro­ ernment's nice-sounding slogans. There posal to roof the railway yards at was the "transport revolution". Well, Jolimont and a couple of years ago a certainly that may well occur when competition was held but no decision people cannot get to and from their has ever been made. Only a couple of places of work, shopping and entertain­ weeks ago the Premier was so em­ ment. barrassed over the situation that he Mr Crellin-What is wrong with the would not allow a publishing company public transport services in the elec­ access to six of the unsuccessful entries torate you represent? which the publisher wanted to include Mr ROPER-I have a good transport in a book on Australia. service in the, electorate I represent. Then there is a pyramid structure. Indeed, the Upfield service is excellent I am sure honourable members remem­ because 13000 people a day use it, ber the pyramid project with the which is more than use the Sandring­ Premier appearing on all four tele- ham line. 5820 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY Mr CrelHn-Have a look at your health services Victoria receives $42 tramway services, again excellent. million less than its entitlement, and Mr ROPER-I invite the honourable that is without a whisper from the member for Sandringham to visit the Government or the Treasurer. electorate, as I will shortly visit his There were various press releases electorate at the request of his hospital and what I refer to as press-conference­ boards! type Government. The Premier gets The DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr A. T. asked a question at a press conference Evans~Order! There is a cross argu­ and immediately there is a new policy. ment developing between the honour­ Last year there were petrol price rises able members for Sandringham and and someone asked the Premier Niddrie and I ask both honourable whether he was concerned. The honour­ members to remain quiet. able gentleman stated that there would Mr ROPER-I am sure any argument be an inquiry. Honourable members would be "cross" with the honourable heard a bit about that inquiry during member for Sandringham. Let me question time today. The Premier rang examine some of the other slogans. up the Minister for Consumer Affairs There was "Work for Tomorrow". The who directed one person to ring up a bag which everyone received to take couple of the other States. He called in away the documents they received was at a service station on his way home very good quality, just as was the food to fill up the tank on his car, and that which was great, but in terms of jobs was the extent of the inquiry. I should from growth there was no advantage be interested to see the file tabled in whatsoever. the Parliamentary Library. It would require only a small public servant to Then we have "Victoria's Strategy carry it over to this place as it would for the Eighties". That is the title of be an extremely thin file. That is the this document, and already the Minister kind of action which occurred at that for Youth, Sport and Recreation is time. saying that the Government party is walking away from the document. It This is a Government of indecision. is a Government of promises, promises, Leaders of large businesses in this State not of actions. constantly agree that the Government I remind honourable members of is no longer capable of coping with the statements made in recent policy issues that arise. The Leader of the speeches and the first was made on Opposition, together with other mem­ bers of the Opposition, have had many 1 March 1976. On that occasion the discussions with large and small busi­ Premier stated: nessmen throughout Victoria, and the We go into this election with dynamic pro­ gressive policies for the future. We will not people to whom Opposition members only carry on with the wide range of tasks have spoken have conSistently made the we set out three years ago . . . we present a point that this Government is a Gov­ wide range of new initiatives as well. ernment of indecision. It is a Govern­ Those were excellent words and the ment which does not want to make same kind of words have been used by any decisions and as soon as any group the Leader of the National Party and raises a question about a particular the Minister for Youth, Sport and decision, the Government backs right Recreation, but the fact is that nothing off. has occurred and everything has deteri­ It is also a Government that is orated over the past five years. divided amongst itself. Look at what One of the key parts of the document happened over the advertisements in­ was to build a true co-operative federal­ viting people to ring up if they had ism. The Hamer Government was the complaints about Government perfor­ architect of the new federalism, a new mance. That initiative was proposed by federalism which means that Victoria the new Minister for Economic De­ gets less money than any other State. velopment, who with the Minister for I remind honourable members that in Employment and Training and other 11 March 1981] Want of Confidence in Government 5821 Ministers, is running for the leadership rang to say that the question will be of the future Opposition. That particu­ answered by Mr Dixon, because the lar group gets into everybody else question was originally asked of him". rather than participating in the co­ After more than twelve months I finally operation that is required in making received an answer stating that the decisions. funds should come from the Common­ wealth in the first place. Consequently . I invite honourable members to con­ a letter was sent to the Department of sider one particular area of activity. Employment and Youth Affairs request­ It is a shame that the Minister for ing information on existing and contem­ Employment and Training is not in the plated moves at a Commonwealth level House. The honourable gentleman has in respect of a youth guarantee policy made his speech and has gone off to and funding. The great announcement see his constituents, although it is not of 18 months ago was down the drain. yet midnight! On 11 September 1979 Once the Government has a press re­ the Minister for Youth, Sport and lease in the newspapers, that is the last Recreation announced the establish­ that it wants to hear about it. Gov­ ment of a Youth Guarantee Fund. This ernment members obviously do not read fund was to provide finance for special Hansard. employment projects and other advant­ The other matter that really needs ages for young people who were some investigation in this debate is experiencing difficulties. Intrigued by that the Deputy Premier, and the Pre­ the announcement, I placed a question mier, have come into Parliament and on notice and received an answer from said, "Forgive us everything. We have the Minister for Youth, Sport and made mistakes, but we are going to Recreation, which stated: fix up everything in the future". Who The concept of the Youth Guarantee Fund has been in Government for 25 years? is being investigated by the Victorian Employ­ Certainly the Labor Party has not, but ment Committee. it will get there next time. The Gov­ ernment has had the control, and the I then asked the Treasurer whether he problems that it now complains about had received any request for funds for have festered and grown during its this Youth Guarantee Fund and the period in Government, particularly dur­ answer was an extremely brief, "No". ing the past three or four years. There­ That was on 13 November 1979. fore, to suggest, as the Government I followed that up by asking further does, that everything will be all right, questions which appeared on the Notice is to forget the record of broken prom­ Paper but the questions had not been ises, the big lies that have been used so answered by the end of the last autumn successfully ever since Mr Hamer be­ sessional period. I wrote to the Minister came Premier. That is no longer accept­ for Youth, Sport and Recreation stating able. If honourable members want the that the questions had been asked on black cars and the benefits that go with 11 March 1980 and could the honour­ them, they have to do some work, but able gentleman expedite answers. I Government members do not want to received a reply from the Minister for do that work. All they want is the luxury Youth, Sport and Recreation in which without the hard and difficult decisions. he indicated that the matter would now The honourable member for Sand­ be handled by the Minister of Labour ringham is well aware that the Gov­ and Industry in his capacity as chair­ ernment is unprepared to make hard man of the Victorian Employment Com­ and difficult decisions. It is not pre­ mittee. That reply was dated 9 July 1980. pared to take the Victorian community My office then telephoned and asked for into its confidence about the problems an answer. On 15 July my secretary that have been mentioned by the Leader also wrote to the Minister of Labour of the Opposition and the Leader of and Industry as~ing for an answer. On the National Party. Rather than sug­ 17 July, my office received a phone gesting that boon times are here again, call that stated, "Mr Ramsay's office the Government needs to do what the 5822 Want of Confidence in Government [ASSEMBLY Minister for Youth, Sport and Recrea­ what happened to the five-year plan, tion said, that is, accept that many he was not aware that it existed. It things are going against that. The Gov­ had served its purpose in the 1973 ernment will not do that if it has these election, and it vanished after that. kinds of documents. The Opposition will send Government members a series The Opposition has based this motion of press statements that contain the on the fact that Victoria is in severe number of positive suggestions. economic difficulty, and is currently in the middle of the worst recession The DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr A. T. since the 1930s. The Opposition has Evans)--There are far too many inter­ based the motion on the fact that jections in the House, and I reminded Victoria's unemployment problem is the honourable member for Noble Park deteriorating while Australia's unem­ before, to cease his continual inter­ ployment problem is improving; that jections. He is interjecting from out of Victoria's chance of economic recovery his place. . is being jeopardized by incompetent Mr ROPER-Let me refer to one planning, as the Minister for Employ­ particular area of responsibility. To­ ment and Training suggested; that Vic­ day the Opposition asked the Premier toria's public transport system is grind­ whether he is aware of the hospital ing to a halt; that Victoria has a higher deficit situation and whether his Gov­ rate of bankruptcy than any other ernment was prepared to do anything State; and that the Government IS In­ about it. Health, which is the second capable of making decisions and stick­ largest spender of State money, does ing to them. not receive mention in Victoria's Strat­ egy for the Eighties. The Premier did The Minister of Housing, the Min­ not k·now there was a problem, even ister who found his new direction in though 2000 beds will be closed by the creating employment by proposing to end of this calendar year, and thous­ sack 10 per cent of the Housing Com­ ands of people in the health field will mission staff, is suggesting that Vic­ be sacked if the current level of deficits toria's bankruptcy rate is because Vic­ continues. There have been health pro­ torians are in some way more creative mises made and broken, which is so than other Australians. That is to for­ typical of the Government. get the major reasons that have been outlined by the Opposition for Victoria's The Premier in 1973 promised the bankruptcy rate. Most of the assist­ eastern suburbs a geriatric complex. In ance to small business by the Govern­ 1976 he made the same promise, and ment is of the press release booming again in 1979. Members of the Opposi­ type, rather than practical help. tion visited the eastern suburbs a few week-s before and told them that as it The final matter raised by the Leader was election time promises would be of the Opposition is that the Govern­ forthcoming. Still there is nothing there. ment is incapable of making decisions The same applies to the proposed and sticking to them. This is seen in northern suburban geriatric complex. the Parliament, in the community, and A $500 000 hole has had to be fenced in the media. The people of Victoria because of danger to children. At have woken up to what this Govern­ Frankston there have been years of ment has not done. The editorial promises about the hospital building writers, though it must hurt them, are programme, and again, a hole that saying that this Government has to go; would do any major builder or con­ the National Party, by its decision, is struction company proud. More than saying that the Government has to go; $10 million of hospital plans have been the businessmen of this community are pulped in the past three years because saying that the Government has to go; of the Government's inability to plan. the hospitals are saying that the Gov­ In mental health there was a so­ ernment has to go; and the people in called five-year plan, but when the the schools and the parents are saying present Minister of Health was asked that the Government has to go.