7 Dec 1999 Legislative Assembly 5927

TUESDAY, 7 DECEMBER 1999 The Governor now transmits the Bills to the Legislative Assembly, to be numbered and forwarded to the proper Officer for enrolment, in the manner required by law. Mr SPEAKER (Hon. R. K. Hollis, Redcliffe) Government House, Brisbane. 7 December read prayers and took the chair at 9.30 a.m. 1999.

PETITION ASSENT TO BILLS The Clerk announced the receipt of the Mr SPEAKER: Order! I have to inform the following petition— House that I have received from His Excellency the Governor a letter in respect to assent to certain Bills, the contents of which will be Prostitution Laws incorporated in the records of Parliament— From Mr Horan (126 petitioners) (sgd) Peter Arnison requesting the House to reject any move to legalise brothels in Queensland and do all in GOVERNOR its power to restrict and contain this immoral Message No. 6199 practice which is so harmful to society. The Governor acquaints the Legislative Petition received. Assembly that Bills intituled: "A Bill for an Act to provide for the establishment and operation of retirement villages, and for other purposes" PAPERS "A Bill for an Act to amend the Trusts Act The Clerk informed the House of the 1973 in relation to investment of trust tabling of the following documents— funds, and for other purposes" PAPERS TABLED DURING THE RECESS "A Bill for an Act to amend Acts The Clerk informed the House that the administered by the Attorney-General and following papers, received during the recess, Minister for Justice and Minister for The were tabled on the date indicated— Arts" 6 December 1999— "A Bill for an Act to amend the Anzac Day Act 1995" Bureau of Sugar Experiment Stations— Annual Report 1998-99 "A Bill for an Act to amend the Evidence Late tabling statement by the Minister for Act 1977, Criminal Code, Juvenile Justice Primary Industries (Mr Palaszczuk) relating Act 1992 and Penalties and Sentences Act to the Bureau of Sugar Experiment 1992 in relation to the use of audio visual Stations Annual Report 1998-99 links or audio links in court proceedings" Queensland Fisheries Management "A Bill for an Act about the issue and Authority—Annual Report 1998-99 enforcement of infringement notices, the enforcement of court ordered fines and Late tabling statement by the Minister for certain court ordered debts, and for other Primary Industries (Mr Palaszczuk) relating purposes" to the Queensland Fisheries Management Authority—Annual Report 1998-99 "A Bill for an Act to amend Acts administered by the Attorney-General and Queensland Livestock and Meat Minister for Justice and Minister for The Authority—Annual Report 1998-99 Arts" Late tabling statement by the Minister for Primary Industries (Mr Palaszczuk) relating "A Bill for an Act to amend various Acts to the Queensland Livestock and Meat administered by the Minister for Aboriginal Authority Annual Report 1998-99 and Torres Strait Islander Policy and Minister for Women's Policy and Minister Grainco Australia Limited—Company and for Fair Trading" Annual Financial Report for the year ended 31 August 1999 "A Bill for an Act to amend the Stipendiary Magistrates Act 1991, and for other Aboriginal Co-ordinating Council—Annual purposes" Report 1998-99 having been passed by the Legislative Late tabling statement by the Minister for Assembly, and having been presented for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Royal Assent, were assented to by the Policy and Minister for Women's Policy Governor, in the name of Her Majesty, on the and Minister for Fair Trading (Ms Spence) Sixth day of December, 1999. relating to the Aboriginal Co-ordinating Council Annual Report 1998-99 5928 Papers 7 Dec 1999

STATUTORY INSTRUMENTS MINISTERIAL RESPONSE TO A PETITION The following statutory instruments were tabled The following response to a petition, received by The Clerk— during the recess, was tabled by The Clerk— Auctioneers and Agents Act 1971— Response from the Minister for Public Works Auctioneers and Agents Amendment and Minister for Housing (Mr Schwarten) to a Regulation (No. 2) 1999, No. 308 petition presented by Mr Bredhauer from 109 petitioners, regarding the rent assessment Education (School Curriculum P-10) Act 1996— policy for rental properties provided by the Education (School Curriculum P-10) Department of Housing on Thursday and Horn Amendment Regulation (No. 1) 1999, Islands— No. 305 I refer to your letter of 11 November 1999 Education (Senior Secondary School Studies) regarding a petition received by the Act 1988— House, from electors on Thursday and Horn Islands in the Division of Cook. The Education (Senior Secondary School petition relates to the rent assessment Studies) By-law 1999, No. 307 policy for rental properties provided by Education (Senior Secondary School the Department of Housing, on Thursday Studies) Regulation 1999, No. 306 and Horn Islands. Fair Trading Act 1989— The Department of Housing, through Fair Trading (Lead In Candle Wicks) Order Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 1999, No. 311 Housing, manages the properties referred to in the petition. The aim of Aboriginal Local Government Act 1993— and Torres Strait Islander Housing is to Local Government Amendment Regulation improve access for Aboriginal and Torres (No. 2) 1999, No. 304 Strait Islander people to secure, Nature Conservation Act 1992— affordable and appropriate housing. It currently manages 189 properties on Nature Conservation (Protected Areas) Thursday and Horn Islands. The Amendment Regulation (No. 6) 1999, department has responded previously to No. 309 the concerns of the tenants regarding the Plant Protection Act 1989— rent assessment policy. Plant Protection (Banana Pest Quarantine) Since 1996, the department has Regulation 1999, No. 310 and Explanatory committed substantial resources to Notes and Regulatory Impact Statement improving the quality and quantity of for No. 310 housing on Thursday and Horn Islands. By Public Sector Ethics Act 1994— the end of the 1999/2000 financial year, 136 new or replacement dwellings and a Public Sector Ethics Regulation 1999, significant number of upgrades will have No. 302 been completed, at a cost of $26.3M. The University of Queensland Act 1998— program of redevelopment has reduced University of Queensland Statute No. 1 the wait time for housing on Thursday (Election of Elected Members of Senate) Island from 12 years to approximately 4 1999 years. University of Queensland (Statute No. 1A On 5 January 1999, I approved the Repeal) Statute 1999 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Housing Rent Policy. The approved rent University of Queensland Statute No. 5 policy is a continuation of the Interim Rent (Awards) 1999 Policy, which operated since December University of Queensland Statute No. 6 1995 and features an income based (Fees) 1999 assessment process. Whistleblowers Protection Act 1994— The Joint Ministerial Advisory Committee, Whistleblowers Protection Regulation which advises me on Indigenous housing 1999, No. 303 issues in Queensland, consulted widely with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander MINISTERIAL RESPONSE TO A Housing tenants throughout Queensland PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE REPORT about the rent policy, including tenants on The following response to a parliamentary Thursday and Horn Islands. committee report, received during the recess, For reasons of equity for all tenants, the was tabled by The Clerk— income-based method for calculating rent response from the Treasurer (Mr Hamill) to is applied across the State. See Report No. 47 of the Public Accounts Attachment 1 for rent calculation schedule. Committee entitled Review of the Auditor- The approved rent policy requires tenants General's Reports—Second Quarter 1998- to provide details about household 99 income, which is used to calculate the rent 7 Dec 1999 Ministerial Statement 5929

payable on the property they occupy. Children's Incomes—Single and over 25 Additionally, tenants who do not provide years: 10% assessed—no maximum. the department with income details are Children's incomes—over 25 years with assessed at the full market rent until the partner: 10% of gross assessable income information is provided. charged as rent Independent valuers have assessed the Additional Resident Income—over 25 market rent for Aboriginal and Torres Strait years: 15% of gross assessable income Islander Housing rental properties on charged as rent Thursday and Horn Islands. The market rents for these properties range from $45 MINISTERIAL PAPERS per week for houses in areas not yet The following papers were tabled— redeveloped, to $300 for houses in Minister for Health (Mrs Edmond)— redeveloped areas. Far North Queensland Hospital The upper limit is high in comparison to Foundation—Annual Report for 1998-99 market rents for other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Housing properties Written statement in accordance with across the State, however, it is a reflection s46KB of Financial Administration and of real estate prices on the islands. For Audit Act 1977. example, three-bedroom houses in the private rental market on Thursday Island MINISTERIAL STATEMENT command between $300 and $500 per week. Comprehensive Cancer Research Centre Tenants on Thursday and Horn Islands Hon. P. D. BEATTIE (Brisbane Central— pay between $28.50 per week for houses ALP) (Premier) (9.35 a.m.), by leave: Later in areas not yet redeveloped and up to today I will be unveiling the foundation stone $260.00 per week for houses in for the new Comprehensive Cancer Research redeveloped areas. Centre at the Queensland Institute of Medical Only a small proportion of Aboriginal and Research. At the same time, I will also be Torres Strait Islander Housing tenants pay officially launching the building program for the close to the market rent in the new centre. The institute has a reputation as redeveloped properties. This occurs when one of Australia's best medical research tenants have high household incomes and facilities and an international reputation for are not eligible for a large subsidy. cancer research. The Health Minister, who will To ensure the housing it provides is be accompanying me to both of those events, affordable, the department deems that no supports the Government's contribution to that household will pay more than 30% of its centre. Professor Lawrie Powell, who is the income in rent. Tenants on Thursday and Horn Islands are paying an average of institute director, had the idea to extend the 15% of their income on rent, with a low of Queensland Institute of Medical Research to 4%, and a high of 23%. include a larger cancer research institute modelled on comprehensive cancer research In comparison to the private rental market, centres in the United States. The new centre rental properties offered by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Housing are well will have laboratories for epidemiology—or the placed in terms of affordability. study of diseases in our community—research into identifying the causes of cancer and I trust this information addresses the applying clinical research to patient care. It will petitioners concerns. If I can be of assistance with other matters within my also allow the institute to continue research portfolio, please do not hesitate to into infectious diseases like malaria and giardia contact my office. and to do research into cancers like melanoma and breast cancer. Attachment 1 The $55m expansion of the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Housing Rent Schedule Institute of Medical Research will be in two phases. The initial building of 10 storeys will Tenant/s: ATSIH Rent Policy have five laboratory floors including a good Tenants and Spouses: 21.5% of first $300 laboratory practice floor, a clinical trial unit and income per week and 26% of additional an epidemiology floor. Work on phase 1 income. begins next month and the building should be Additional Resident's Income—under 25 up and running by July 2001. Phase 2 is the years: 10% of gross assessable income refurbishment of the Queensland Radium charged as rent to a max of $12 for 18 Institute. This will be finished in two years' time. year olds or under; $24 for 19 to 24 year There is no doubt that this institute is held in olds. very high esteem. That is evident from the 5930 Ministerial Statement 7 Dec 1999 many generous donations to establish the new society has helped to open our eyes to the centre. The Leukemia Foundation donated rest of the world and turn us into a confident $5m. $10m came from the institute's trust and multicultural community. another $20m from anonymous private The Queenslanders included in this book donations. The Queensland Government has have shown what can be achieved when the contributed $20m and use of the site, valued human spirit is encouraged by the good old at $8.75m. Australian fair go. There are five of them, each We see this new centre as the focal point contributing in their own way. They are: Con for cancer research with Queensland Health, Sciacca, in politics—some honourable other Brisbane hospitals and our universities. members may have heard of him; Sarina And it is a crucial part of our plan to make Russo, in education—a very proud Queensland the biotechnology capital of the Queenslander who has made significant Asia-Pacific region. My Government has advances in education and who, the other developed a 10-year plan to push that goal day, won a significant Federal Government and that involves the establishment of major contract, for which I congratulate her; Joseph biotechnology research centres. The $100m Saragossi, in business; Agnes Whiten, in Institute for Molecular Bioscience at the metallurgy and women's affairs; and Magda University of Queensland will be home to 700 Wollner, in restaurants. world-class scientists. The State Government will provide $77.5m over the next 10 years to My Government recognises the ensure the institute attracts key individuals and importance of encouraging multiculturalism in chief investigators and to assist it to form this State. Multiculturalism allows each of us to alliances with local and international industries. acknowledge where we come from. It also We are committed to this $55m extension to enriches our society with the cultures and the Queensland Institute for Medical Research traditions of other nations and it helps us to for the comprehensive cancer centre. We are pursue valuable business and economic opportunities overseas. Each of the people also committed to a $10m centre for featured in the book A Fair Go—Portraits of biomedical research and drug discovery and the Australian Dream have made significant incubation facilities at Griffith University. $30m contributions. I congratulate them all on will be spent to expand the Queensland Health helping to build Australia and Queensland into Scientific Services laboratories, incorporating the great nation and State they are today. I the National Research Centre in Environmental congratulate also Steven Rich and Focus Toxicology. All this is an investment in the Publishing for producing a definitive guide to State's future prosperity—a prosperity in which modern Australia. I table a copy of the book biotechnology figures prominently. for the information of all honourable members.

MINISTERIAL STATEMENT MINISTERIAL STATEMENT Multiculturalism DHL Worldwide Express Hon. P. D. BEATTIE (Brisbane Central— ALP) (Premier) (9.38 a.m.), by leave: Members Hon. J. P. ELDER (Capalaba—ALP) of this House would know of my Government's (Deputy Premier and Minister for State commitment to multiculturalism. They would Development and Minister for Trade) also know that I am happy to take every (9.41 a.m.), by leave: The Beattie State opportunity to celebrate and promote our rich Government continues its efforts not only to and diverse culture. That is something we did attract new commerce to Queensland but also this morning with the Minister for Primary to promote the relationship that already exists Industries, Henry Palaszczuk, and my with business in this State. To this end, I am Parliamentary Secretary, Gordon Nuttall. pleased to inform the House that leading international courier and logistics group DHL Earlier this morning at a special breakfast Worldwide Express will strengthen its at Parliament House I was pleased to launch a commitment to Queensland by announcing new book titled A Fair Go—Portraits of the later today that it will establish its Oceania Australian Dream. This book marks 50 years of Australian citizenship, sharing the experiences shared service centre in Brisbane. This of immigrants who made new lives for decision by DHL will create an additional 225 themselves in Australia through persistence, jobs. Further, it will lead to a more than determination and sheer hard work. Some doubling of DHL's work force from 175 to 400 suffered personal tragedies, but that has not jobs within the next four years. prevented them from making a contribution to The centre will initially carry out the this country. Their participation in Australian region's customer accounting and finance 7 Dec 1999 Ministerial Statement 5931 operations, with other DHL Oceania operations for Queensland. I congratulate DHL on its being located at the facility in the near future. decision. The other functions that will be carried out include customs and information and technology services. DHL executive Mr Brian MINISTERIAL STATEMENT Roberts has outlined to me DHL's plan to Parthenium Weed expand the company's Express Logistics Hon. R. J. WELFORD (Everton—ALP) Centre to attract further repair and return, (Minister for Environment and Heritage and warehousing and distribution companies to set Minister for Natural Resources) (9.44 a.m.), by up within DHL's facility at the old international leave: One of the most serious threats to airport. DHL considers the demand from Queensland's agricultural productivity is the Australian and overseas companies to provide threat posed by parthenium weed. This weed warehousing and transport solutions to be of national significance has already taken a extremely strong. foothold in key grazing and cropping areas of I confirm to the House that the State the State. Parthenium not only threatens Government has provided assistance to DHL these pastoral and cropping lands; it also to ensure its expansion in Queensland and to poses a threat to human health, in some stave off attempts by centres in other States cases causing hay fever and allergic and overseas to attract DHL. DHL's dermatitis. Queensland expansion is part of a long-term Land-holders have long provided our front strategy by the company to make the Brisbane line against the spread of parthenium, and we site its transport, logistics and distribution hub have relied heavily on their views and for the Asia-Pacific region. This strategy also experience. Today I am pleased to advise the incorporates DHL's vision to achieve House that the Queensland Parthenium Weed internationally competitive trade free zones Strategy has been developed in partnership through manufacturing-in-bond. DHL was the with rural land-holders to coordinate the fight first company to be granted a manufacturing- against this rural menace. This is an important in-bond licence from the Federal Government. initiative by the Beattie Government to support The manufacturing-in-bond initiative provides a rural Queenslanders. This strategy grew out of significant opportunity for Australian a workshop held in Roma in March at which manufacturers to improve their key stakeholders gathered to work out ways of competitiveness in the international market, managing this weed. Subsequently, input has and the Federal Government is still finetuning come from people with a variety of expertise that legislation. representing many different occupations and The decision by DHL to expand its regions. Queensland operation is a progression from its The completion of the Parthenium Weed initial decision to establish its customer service Strategy marks the start of a new era of centre and Express Logistics Centre in 1996. coordinated management of this serious pest Once again, this is a case of this Government plant across Queensland. Parthenium weed working progressively with business and has infested areas in central Queensland and creating jobs in this State. Just as in the case there have been outbreaks in the south and of US-based Boeing, which has expanded its west of the State. It has the potential to operations in the State with recent surveillance spread over much of eastern Australia unless contracts, the Beattie Government is active preventive measures are taken. This continuing to work in partnership in business. new strategy has been endorsed by the DHL's decision to locate additional Chairman of the Parthenium Weed functions in Brisbane reinforces Queensland's Management Group, Mr John Murphy, a grain competitive advantages as a business harvester in the Kingaroy area, and the Rural location—its highly skilled employees, its cost Lands Protection Board. Its implementation will competitiveness over other locations within be managed by the Parthenium Weed Australia and the existence of a proactive Management Group, which includes State Labor Government. DHL's expansion will representatives from across the State, as well require the development and refurbishment of as members from New South Wales and the an additional 7,000 square metres of space at Northern Territory. its premises at the old Brisbane international By involving as many people in the airport, in addition to the existing 6,000 square community as possible and placing an metres. The Government will remain diligent to emphasis on limiting the spread of parthenium press home this State's advantages and win seed, the Government will be accelerating further business and further job opportunities efforts to safeguard extensive areas of our 5932 Ministerial Statement 7 Dec 1999

State's rural lands. Rural communities are well We are entering a new age of science aware that parthenium seed can be spread by and innovation in the development, production the movement of fodder, stock, vehicles and and promotion of food and fibre in this State. farm machinery. Coordinated actions taken to The Government is taking up the challenge in prevent this spread are being developed a changing world of finding new and exciting through a cooperative approach. There will be ways to advance our primary industries. These measures to improve community awareness, things are important for the prosperity of all and land-holders on properties with Queenslanders, our quality of life and the established infestations will be offered skills sustainable development of our State's training in control techniques. In addition, over resources for future generations. $400,000 will be spent this year on research into new biological controls. MINISTERIAL STATEMENT Land-holders and community groups are International Volunteers Day working with the Government to use these control agents in a sustainable management Hon. M. ROSE (Currumbin—ALP) system to reduce the impact of this weed. The (Minister for Emergency Services) (9.49 a.m.), introduction of the Parthenium Weed by leave: Sunday marked an important day for Management Strategy reaffirms the tens of thousands of Queenslanders. It was Government's commitment to working in International Volunteers Day. The vastness of partnership with regional and rural Queensland our State and the relative isolation of a large communities to improve agricultural number of Queensland communities mean productivity and the quality of life of rural volunteering has always played, and will communities. always play, a crucial role in our daily lives. Since colonial times, communities have drawn on their own resources to ensure provision of vital services and for protection in times of MINISTERIAL STATEMENT drought, bushfire and flood. While today we Agency for Food and Fibre Sciences have more sophisticated ways of providing essential services and dealing with such things Hon. H. PALASZCZUK (Inala—ALP) as the tyranny of distance and natural (Minister for Primary Industries) (9.47 a.m.), by disasters, one thing can never be replaced by leave: The Department of Primary Industries is machinery or technology—the human spirit. playing a key role in this Government's Our volunteers have that in abundance. commitment to making Queensland the Smart Today, volunteers are an integral part of a State. Later today I will be launching a new wide range of community services. Sporting agency which is set to become the bodies, the arts, the tourism industry, powerhouse of research and innovation in conservation and environmental bodies, food and fibre. With 1,400 scientists and educational institutions and my own portfolio, support staff in 148 centres around the State, Emergency Services, all rely on volunteer the Agency for Food and Fibre Sciences is set support. Across the State more than 33,000 to put Queensland on the world map through SES volunteers carry out a wide range of tasks a research effort that will boost exports and for their community from traffic control, to land increase revenue and job opportunities in searches, counter disaster operations, road regional Queensland. accident and other rescues. Meanwhile, Symbolic of the Department of Primary Queensland's 45,000 rural volunteer Industries' achievements in research and firefighters protect 90% of the State's land innovation is a new digital business card, which mass from fire. The Department of Emergency I would like to present to all honourable Services also calls on thousands of other members, in keeping with the season of volunteers with skills in a range of areas. goodwill. This digital business card contains a More than 6,600 active volunteer surf- compact disk, complete with an 11-minute lifesavers do a magnificent job patrolling multimedia presentation. It is in itself an Queensland's beaches. They have saved in innovative marketing tool. Through excess of 71,000 lives over the past 60-odd photographs, video clips and audio it spells out years. Then there are the blue water the achievements and scope of Primary guardians—the Australian Volunteer Coast Industries in Queensland. The diskette Guard and the Volunteer Marine Rescue contains 30 megabytes of data, which has Association, each boasting around 1,500 been replicated onto a CD the size of a active members. There are also 392 honorary business card. It fits into any CD tray and is ambulance officers at work in remote self-launching. communities around the State. They are 7 Dec 1999 Ministerial Statement 5933 trained to provide first response emergency MINISTERIAL STATEMENT care until an ambulance arrives or the patient Special Education is evacuated. The CHEM Unit has 34 volunteer scientists and chemical experts on hand Hon. D. M. WELLS (Murrumba—ALP) across the State to provide advice and (Minister for Education) (9.54 a.m.), by leave: assistance during chemical emergencies. Staffing for students with disabilities is based on a process known as ascertainment. This Each year, emergency services volunteers process recognises that there are varying spend hundreds of thousands of hours levels of special educational needs. These involved with operations and many more hours levels of special need are ascertained by in training. This year has been particularly expert educators working with principals and hectic for volunteers. Their activities provide parents, and staffing is determined on the some insight into just how valuable they are to basis of those levels. This is different from communities. The year 1999 started with primary and secondary staffing, which is based volunteers working side by side with their purely on enrolment numbers. communities to help clean up after severe flooding across much of the State and Cyclone Over the last few years, in line with parent Rona in the north. Then they lent a hand choice, there has been a significant shift of numbers of students with disabilities enrolling during two New South Wales operations when in local schools. Parents have been electing in their southern colleagues could not cope—in greater numbers to send their children to Gosford to help eradicate the highly mainstream schools rather then to special contagious Newcastle disease and then in schools. There have been more or less Sydney after the city was lashed by a constant complaints from teachers and destructive hailstorm. parents that mainstreaming is not being Back in Queensland, hundreds more SES accompanied by an equivalent shift of volunteers spent thousands of hours with two resources. The information technology now heartbreaking searches—for nine-year-old available to the department verifies that this Keyra Steinhardt in Rockhampton and proposition is, in fact, true. Nambour teenager Jessica Gaudie around It is unsustainable to argue that a child Kenilworth. More recently, rural volunteer who is ascertained as having a certain level of firefighters have had to contend with a spate special need in one setting should have more of bushfires, many of them deliberately lit. The favourable or less favourable staffing culprits showed callous disregard for the safety resources at his or her disposal than another of those who fight the flames. child ascertained as having exactly the same The year 2001, as International Year of level of need in another setting. This the Volunteer, provides a wonderful Government is committed to ensuring that all opportunity to promote the work of volunteers. students with disabilities irrespective of their My department is developing initiatives for school should, within the limits of human 2001, along with representatives of emergency possibility, receive similar levels of teacher and service volunteer organisations, local teacher aide allocations based on their special government and community groups. They will needs. My department provides resources be focusing on boosting the number of direct to special schools on the basis of volunteers in Queensland, attracting young ascertained students. people to volunteer organisations and gaining For students with disabilities in classes, recognition for volunteers. However, units and mainstream schools, resources will recognition is rarely the driving force for the go to districts on the basis of the men and women who sacrifice their own time ascertainment in that district. The districts will for others; they do it for the satisfaction of then work with the schools to make decisions helping their communities. about the level of resourcing provided for I would like to make special mention of particular students with disabilities, depending some individuals who are even more behind on the individual needs of the child and their the scenes than the volunteers themselves: school. Despite claims to the contrary, we will their families. Volunteers could not do their job be using the same ratio as the previous year. without the support and understanding of their The staffing allocations of this loved ones. Employers who generously allow Government are based on the proposition that their staff members time off work to battle every child who is ascertained as having bushfires or floods or to join a land search also special needs will, as far as is humanly deserve special thanks. Finally, I would like to possible, receive the same level of support as thank every volunteer in Queensland for their another child with identical special needs, dedication, energy and selflessness. wherever he or she may be receiving his or her 5934 Private Members' Statements 7 Dec 1999 education. The staffing ratios used for judgments from the window of the students with disabilities are the same in 2000 Government jet at 40,000 feet." as they were in 1999. There is no reduction in the Statewide allocation of staffing provided to students with disabilities. In fact, there is a PARLIAMENTARY SERVICE massive increase in the staffing to special Members for Cunningham and Keppel need students across-the-board. My Mr SPEAKER: Order! Before calling department advises me that there are 125 Private Members' Statements, I note that more special education teachers than there today is the anniversary of 25 years' were at the beginning of last year. parliamentary service for two members of this Of course adjustments will occur in some Parliament, the honourable member for schools to reflect changes to their enrolment, Cunningham and the honourable member for as always occurs. Our staffing levels for Keppel. Congratulations. students with disabilities in the year 2000 will Honourable members: Hear, hear! be determined on the basis of enrolments and ascertainment levels at the start of that year. Also in 1999, students in some special schools PRIVATE MEMBERS' STATEMENTS had more favourable levels of teacher Rural Queensland resourcing than similar students who are located in units, classes and mainstream Mr SPRINGBORG (Warwick—NPA) settings. (Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (10 a.m.): Never before has a minority in Queensland Despite claims to the contrary we will, been subject to such vilification, discrimination however, be using exactly the same ratios as and intimidation as have Queensland's in the previous year. This will now deliver an hardworking farmers and graziers at the hands equitable level of resourcing across the State of the Beattie Labor Government over the past for students with disabilities. While there are 18 months. I call on the Queensland some schools which will experience a decrease Government to amend the Anti-Discrimination in resourcing, others will receive increases. I Act to ensure that this sort of vilification, repeat: overall, there is a massive increase in intimidation and scurrilous attack cannot teacher numbers and in teacher aide continue into the future. hours—125 additional teachers and 3,458 additional teacher aide hours across the Over the past few months the Federal special education area. These resources will Human Rights and Equal Opportunity be shared among children with special needs Commission has been undertaking studies into on the basis that like cases will be resourced the impact of Government policy on rural alike whatever school they are in and wherever communities right around Australia. This they are in Queensland within the limits of Government should follow suit, because all it human fallibility. has done in its last 18 months in office is go around Queensland and attack the hardworking farmers and graziers in this State. NOTICE OF MOTION As I said, never before has such a minority in Tree-clearing Guidelines Queensland been so intimidated by such vilification and misguided attack as they have Mr SPRINGBORG (Warwick—NPA) experienced with this Government. (Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (9.58 a.m.): I give notice that I will move— Aren't window seats wonderful? We are seeing the development of policy from 40,000 "That this House calls on the feet, while the Premier looks through a Government to postpone plans to porthole window. The other day the Premier introduce mandatory tree clearing flew over inland Queensland, looked down and restrictions on freehold properties or a said, "The whole State is on fire." I do not moratorium on clearing until the know what else the Premier does while he is completion of independent economic and flying. Maybe he plays "I spy". It may be better social impact assessment studies on the if he continues to do that, because on a trip to benefit of such restrictions for the Charters Towers, with visibility a mere 30 miles environment and the impact of such either side, he decided that Queensland was restrictions on rural freehold property on fire and that it was all as a consequence of values; property productivity and viability; these dreadful farmers and graziers rural jobs; and rural communities; undertaking panic land clearing. What the and further that the Beattie Government Premier said the other day is no different from stop making scurrilous and ill-informed the scurrilous attack launched on the 7 Dec 1999 Private Members' Statements 5935 hardworking farmers and graziers of this State roads, but there will still need to be an by the Minister for Natural Resources, who alternative access road to the port, particularly said, "They breed dingos for a $10 bounty", or for traffic from the north. by the Treasurer, who said that farmers' wives will be driving the cattle truck to church or to pick up their groceries to take advantage of Tree-clearing Guidelines the diesel fuel— Hon. V. P. LESTER (Keppel—NPA) Time expired. (10.04 a.m.): Reports today in the Sydney Morning Herald and the Melbourne Age have exposed the furphy being peddled by the Townsville Port Access Premier yesterday and again this morning in Mr REYNOLDS (Townsville—ALP) the Queensland media outlets that he is still (10.02 a.m.): In the past week I have come trying to negotiate an agreement on tree- out strongly against the Perkins Street option clearing controls for freehold land. The Premier proposed in the port access study. I have has no intention of trying to secure genuine spoken to the Transport Minister and informed agreement. During the entire debate he has him that, after careful consideration, I have held a gun to the heads of rural industry concluded that the Perkins Street option is organisations and he has tried to force primary unacceptable. In addition, I have written to producers to compromise and to accept the residents in South Townsville and Railway radical demands of an extreme agenda which Estate and advised them of my view. I have has no interest in jobs, rural communities or given this matter an enormous amount of economic development. thought and consulted widely with residents Those newspaper reports refer to and Government officials. I have concluded confirmation by Government sources that that the Perkins Street option is unacceptable Cabinet has already agreed to new legislation for a number of reasons, the principal one on controlling clearing. A balanced decision being that the development of Perkins Street cannot be made. Cabinet has made up its as a road-rail option would severely dislocate mind. Yesterday's scurrilous claims by the and physically divide the suburb of South Premier linking seasonal burn-offs with tree Townsville. clearing were yet another attack by this Transport to the port is currently divided: malicious Labor Government in its campaign Perkins Street carries the rail and Boundary of victimisation against primary producers and Street takes the road traffic. It is my view that were a deliberate ploy to pave the way for the to impose both transport modes on Perkins new laws. Street would be grossly unfair and socially Those reports also claim that the Beattie destructive. The Perkins Street option, plus the Government will introduce legislation this week. proposed fly-over leading into Archer Street, They claim that Standing Orders will be would cause enormous difficulty for suspended so that the Government can force intersuburban movement. The visual aspect of through unprecedented assaults on property the fly-over, combined with increased traffic rights. That would be a scurrilous abuse of this noise, would detract greatly from the aesthetic Parliament and proper procedure. It would improvements carried out through the $17m confirm beyond all doubt that this Better Cities Program and ongoing council Government, despite its dripping rhetoric, is work. If the Government should decide that not open and accountable. I warn the Premier Boundary Street will continue to be the port not to treat this Parliament, primary producers access road, I will enter into ongoing and other stakeholders with contempt by discussions with Boundary Street residents to forcing through legislation this week. It is time address ways of improving the amenity of for the Premier to apologise on behalf of the residents. Government for his disgraceful treatment of As the local member, I recognise the rural industry. It is time the Beattie problems that residents endure, especially the Government gave some priority to jobs and impact of truck-induced vibration, noise and rural communities and based decisions on dust. These are issues that affect the quality of science instead of TV footage and emotive life and health of residents. I give them my scaremongering. commitment to work closely with them and Government officials to minimise this impact. I also reiterate my strong support for an eastern Goods and Services Tax corridor access, subject to an environmental Mr MICKEL (Logan—ALP) (10.05 a.m.): impact study. It is a fact of life that the eastern Anyone who has spoken with small business corridor will take some traffic off suburban operators and charities knows the growing 5936 Private Members' Statements 7 Dec 1999 concerns they have with the GST and the "indicated interest in the designation and compliance paperwork they will have. In seven forward planning of the Tripcony Site. months' time, small business owners and DNR's intention is to preserve the charities will become tax collectors for the continuity of the lease of the site for Howard Government, with the full support of caravan park/tourist uses for the balance the Queensland coalition. Food store owners of the term of the lease (approximately 8 are at the forefront of the confusion of GST years). DSD recognise opportunity for the exempt and GST taxable food. Ask coffee Tripcony site in the 'Regional Core' to be shop owners or the owners of delis, snack intensely developed following the lease bars, fast food outlets and corner stores, and expiry of the existing caravan park." they will confirm their worst fears about the The council is so concerned that at its confusion with the GST. Honourable members meeting on 18 November 1999 it passed a should ask charitable organisations about their resolution regarding removal of the Tripcony concerns. But now the A New Tax System site from subprecinct A to the new (Goods and Services Tax) Act 1999, section subprecinct C and the amending of the table 165.55 adds to their confusion. The section of development applying to the regional core states— to reflect the desired use of the area for open "For the purposes of making a space and requiring all material change of use declaration under this Subdivision, the applications to be subject to impact Commissioner may: assessment. I think it is vital that the Minister lets the Caloundra City Council do what it (a) treat a particular event that actually wishes to do with that site and not proceed happened as not having happened; with, as his own department has said, high and density development. The people do not want (b) treat a particular event that did not high density development. I know that the actually happen as having happened Minister may want to sell the land for that and, if appropriate, treat the event purpose, but that is not what the people of the as: Sunshine Coast want. (i) having happened at a particular The Tripcony caravan site is very time; and important because it has an important (ii) having involved particular action estuarine element, incorporating the mouth of two creeks into Pumicestone Passage, and by a particular entity; and has mature trees. They are tuckeroo, (c) treat a particular event that actually cottonwood, fig and banksia. They are a happened as: valuable resource for our regional centre. The (i) having happened at a time DCP states that the site is an important part of different from the time it actually the open space and landscape system for the happened; or regional centre. It also states that the Tripcony site has significant— (ii) having involved particular action by a particular entity (whether or Time expired. not the event actually involved any action by that entity)." Voting Trends Anyone who is not confused simply does not Mr LUCAS (Lytton—ALP) (10.10 a.m.): know what is going on. This morning I want to advise the House about the recent trends in the Morgan public opinion poll for the State of Queensland, published in Tripcony Caravan Park Site the Bulletin dated 7 December 1999. Mrs SHELDON (Caloundra—LP) Members have heard before in this House (10.07 a.m.): I raise an issue that is of claims from One Nation members based on considerable concern to my local council and their level of support in the last State poll. In a to the people on the Sunshine Coast. It sense, I can understand their frustration when involves the Tripcony caravan site. I quote they polled 22.7% of the vote, significantly from an attachment to the minutes of the higher than either the National Party, at council's recent meeting—an attachment that 15.2%, or the Liberal Party at 16.1%, the latter was sent down by the Government. It states— no doubt helped by the stroke of tactical brilliance displayed by that great emulator of "Both DSD and DNR"— Robert O'Hara Burke, the member for that is, the Department of State Development Clayfield, in locking the Liberal Party into his and the Department of Natural Resources— sleazy One Nation preference deal. 7 Dec 1999 Private Members' Statements 5937

And how have the parties fared since that and picnic areas would all add to the time? According to the latest Morgan poll, enjoyment of the area. primary vote support for the ALP is up just The water board has appointed under 10% to 48.5%, with the Government's consultants to evaluate the recreational plan. two-party preferred vote a massive 57%. The Results, after consultation with all user groups, Liberals have increased their primary vote from will be published in March 2000. If this 16.1% to 22%. Anyone else would think the happens, it will provide a boost for Townsville support of only one in five was a joke, but as and Thuringowa residents both in recreation the saying goes, "When you look at the and finance. Presently, a home in the Upper National Party and One Nation—it gets worse!" Ross is many thousands of dollars cheaper Under the stunning leadership of the than an equivalent home in other suburbs. I member for Surfers Paradise, Rob Borbidge, believe that when the bridge across the Ross and the social and cultural vanguard of the River is built, connecting Thuringowa to the members for Gregory and Toowoomba South, new hospital and the James Cook University, they have driven the National Party primary more people will look to that area for vote down to 12.5%, or the support of only accommodation and residential homes. one in eight Queenslanders. It is no wonder Add to this the opening of the Ross River the member for Warwick is treating both the Dam—a water sporting facility in our Leader of the Opposition and the member for backyard—and we could expect a rejuvenation Toowoomba South as "Typhoid Marys". of the flagging real estate values in that area. I But it does not end there. Through sheer can foresee a win-win result for Upper Ross dint of hard work, intellectual brute force, residents and all Townsville and Thuringowa inspired leadership and obsessive attention to residents. I have had preliminary talks with the detail on big issues such as Heiner, the consultants, and I am looking forward to member for Caboolture and his One Nation getting down to more detailed discussions with colleagues have managed to drive their all parties as soon as possible. I also call on primary vote down from 22.7% at the last the Minister for Transport to fast-track the State election to 6.5%. Even Mike Horan doing State's contribution towards getting the Ross the numbers for them could not achieve a River bridge under way. result as good as that. I table the poll results and note with Dakabin Jobs Pathway Program gratitude the continued public support of the Mrs LAVARCH (Kurwongbah—ALP) Beattie Labor Government and its focus on (10.14 a.m.): School is out for the Year 12 the real issues of jobs, jobs, jobs, economic class of 1999 and schoolies week is over. And development and a just and equitable society. might I add that our young people are to be With a two-party preferred vote of 57%, there congratulated on their exemplary behaviour is one message for Labor: we must continue during schoolies week. Now it is time for to work hard to maintain public trust and contemplating their future. Many school confidence in us as a Government. The more leavers will go on to further studies, and many the Nationals involve themselves in low-grade others have lined up a traineeship, an political stunts, more sensible and ordinary apprenticeship or a job. Others are still coalition voters drift away to support the party undecided or still looking for work. Of course, of jobs: Labor. this can be a very daunting prospect, and it Time expired. undermines confidence as time goes on. In the Pine Rivers area, our school leavers Ross River Dam are blessed to have the support of an excellent Jobs Pathway program—the Dakabin Mr TURNER (Thuringowa—IND) Jobs Pathway program. I reported to the (10.12 a.m.): In June this year, I called on the House a year ago that the Dakabin State High Townsville and Thuringowa Water Board to School was funded to run a Jobs Pathway open the Ross River Dam for recreational use. program for all Pine Rivers high schools. I am An electric fish-stunning program found that happy to report that it has been funded again there are 17 species of fish available, and a to run the program for the 1999-2000 year. stocking program for barramundi would make Given its great success last year in finding jobs the dam an anglers' delight for tourists and placements, this is not surprising. The locals. The opening of the Ross River Dam will commitment and dedication of the JPP team, also assist in reducing the impact of fishing on under the leadership of Mark Clarke and Kay our saltwater species. Not only fishing is being Gottle, saw the unemployment rate for Pine considered. Other water sports, walking tracks Rivers school leavers over the past year at 2%; 5938 Private Members' Statements 7 Dec 1999 that is right, a 2% unemployment rate for easily be achieved and still meet his apparent school leavers, and it aims to do better this deadline of 30 June next year. year. The Minister should remember that one of For the 751 school leavers from high the simplest rules in economics is that the schools in Pine Rivers, I know that the support small business sector is the engine room of of the Dakabin Jobs Pathway program will give any economy and, more importantly, the them a great head start in their working life. largest employer. Let us give some confidence The mission of the program is to assist young back to small business in Queensland. These people to make a smooth transition from findings torpedo the Minister's assertions that school to work. The motto is: preparing our his new State Purchasing Policy is benefiting youth to be leaders of tomorrow. The work to small businesses in Queensland date of the Dakabin Jobs Pathway program Time expired. makes the JPP team true to their word. They are to be congratulated. Bulimba Bulls State Purchasing Policy Mr PURCELL (Bulimba—ALP) Mr LAMING (Mooloolah—LP) (10.17 a.m.): I congratulate the mighty Bulls of (10.15 a.m.): I refer to the Minister for Public Bulimba who, this year, took out the Works' erudite response last week to my premiership for Brisbane hockey's first division. contribution suggesting that he rewrite the Cries of "Bulls, Bulls, Bulls" have hardly died draft Statewide Purchasing Policy without its down in Bulimba. After 20 years since their last inherent vagueness. I suggested that there win, the Bulimba Bulls this year took out the were so many issues, including the role of the minor premiership, the Memorial Cup and won State Purchasing Council, that were not even the grand final. mentioned in the draft that it was almost I congratulate the coach, Peter Batty, the impossible for businesses or business group manager, Bob Hale, the captain, Jason representatives to respond in any detail at all. Mangan, Andrew Simpson, Greg Hapgood, The Minister's response was that I had only Sean Dancer, Bjorn Smith, Bevan Hari, Nathan referred to issues that had already been raised Egglington, Scott Brennan, Jason Hale, the with him. Of course I raised these issues, and I vice captain—and who could forget his run make no apology for that. I will continue to through almost the entire Redcliffe side as if raise them until they are satisfactorily he had the ball on a string on his hockey addressed. stick—Troy March, Steven Bullion, Troy The Minister advised the House that if Knecht, Russell Cornish, Adam Byrnes, the further refinements are needed once the new goalkeeper, Stephen Lambert, and the stand- policy is operational, then they will be by goalkeeper, Mark Hall. considered. By the time this policy is fully Also, I congratulate the fourth division of implemented—I understand by 30 June the Bulimba Bulls who, for the second year in 2000—businesses in Queensland will have a row, were premiers of Brisbane. They are the endured an 18-month consultation process. up-and-coming Bulls. So that stands Bulimba What a way to engender business confidence! hockey in very good stead. We have supplied What a way to encourage particularly small a lot of hockey players for the Australian side business to do business with Government! over the years, and we will continue to do so The rot is already setting in. I table an with hockey doing so well in Bulimba. extract from the November Yellow Pages Small Business Index. Page nine has a table titled Perceptions of State and Territory Government Industrial Relations Policy Governments. One of the questions was: Mr SANTORO (Clayfield—LP) "Tendering practices for Government contracts (10.19 a.m.): The Opposition has been are unfair on small business." Queensland had warning that, because of its policies— the highest affirmative response to that particularly its industrial relations policies and question of all the States in Australia. It seems its workers compensation policies—the Beattie that 42% of small businesses in Queensland Labor Government will never achieve its 5% believe that tendering practices for State unemployment target. I have recently been Government contracts are unfair on small contacted by small business people who are business. It is time for action. As I said last worried about the increase in union activity week, the Minister should get a more detailed within their industries and workplaces. They draft policy out before Christmas. This can have complained about a rise in union 7 Dec 1999 Private Members' Statements 5939 intimidation and interference within their a different nature, namely that of rainforest workplaces. restoration. This should come as no surprise to The Wet Tropics Tree Planting Scheme anyone, for there can be no doubt that the was established as a job creation and Beattie Labor Government's legislation has environmental repair program following World well and truly tipped the balance in favour of Heritage listing and is now 10 years old. During unionism and in favour of encouraging the that time, more than one million rainforest growth of union membership. This has trees have been planted over some 700 occurred through a combination of blatant pro- hectares with priority given to building wildlife union changes to the legislation which include: corridors such as that linking Lake Barrine and the rights for a union to be heard on Lake Eacham, stabilising river banks and applications for non-union collective rehabilitating wetlands. agreements, notwithstanding that none of the employees may be a member of the union, The scheme is currently supported by, and the fact that the commission must notify and operates in, some 10 local authority eligible unions of all non-union applications areas, and is managed on their behalf by the and their right to be heard in commission North Queensland Afforestation Association. I proceedings; inserting a specific provision would like to pay tribute to the association permitting any award and agreement to president, Douglas Shire Mayor Mike Berwick, include an "encouragement provision" to scheme founder and renowned rainforest "encourage a person to join or maintain ecologist, Geoff Tracey, and manager, Bill membership" of a union, and as a Sokolich. The scheme, which today employees consequence of this the Queensland 40 people, has forged a reputation as one of commission is shortly to determine that awards the most successful of its kind and its contain standard provisions requiring achievements are unparalleled in Australia. employers to take prescribed action for the The Wet Tropics Tree Planting Scheme purpose of encouraging "all prospective and also works in cooperation with other groups current employees to join and maintain that I would like to commend such as financial membership of the relevant union TREAT—Trees for Evelyn and Atherton party"; union rights to enter an employer's Tableland—whose founder, Joan Wright, won premises without notice for the stated purpose an inaugural Wet Tropics Golden Cassowary of inspecting time and wages records of Award for her achievements. Also making a employees eligible to become members of the contribution are local Landcare and ICM union; whilst on premises, rights for unions to groups, Kuranda Envirocare and Tree Force, discuss during working time "matters under this to which I belong and which is supplied with Act" with any employee who is not necessarily trees by the scheme. a member but who is eligible to become a member of the union; and awards being able The Wet Tropics Tree Planting Scheme to be varied to include provisions based on used to be complemented by a major farm certified agreements, provided they are not forestry scheme—the community rainforest contrary to the public interest. reafforestation scheme—which planted four This will militate against the Government's million trees over 2,000 hectares between 5% unemployment target. It will also 1992 and 1996. Tragically, the scheme was discourage employers from employing people. lost after Commonwealth funding was In the end, the big losers will be those people withdrawn upon the election of the in Queensland who are looking for jobs. Commonwealth Government which dismantled Eventually, the Labor Party will be the big loser Labor's Working Nation labour market at the polls. program. Today the Wet Tropics Tree Planting Scheme faces a similar uncertain future Wet Tropics Tree Planting Scheme because it is funded by the Natural Heritage Dr CLARK (Barron River—ALP) Trust. This vitally important scheme needs (10.21 a.m.): Last week the Labor Party security of funding to establish a long-term celebrated the 10th anniversary of the election planting unit to continue its work so that the of Wayne Goss and Labor on 2 December destruction of the rainforest that occurred in 1989 and the transformation of Queensland earlier times when people did not appreciate after 32 years of National Party rule. In far- its— north Queensland another 10th anniversary was celebrated, but this marked a milestone of Time expired. 5940 Private Members' Statements 7 Dec 1999

Diesel Fuel Rebate Scheme organisations are in strife—and they know it. Mr HOBBS (Warrego—NPA) (10.23 a.m.): What is becoming increasingly obvious is just Today I wish to raise concerns in this House in how much strife these bodies face. It has relation to the proposed diesel fuel concession taken months for Federal Treasurer Costello to for local government. The Minister for Local admit that, far from the promises made that Government must make representations to his charities would not be negatively impacted by Federal counterpart in relation to this matter. the GST, the opposite is true. Instead of admitting the problems and sitting down with For the information of the House, I am representatives not only of the major referring to the Diesel and Alternative Fuel metropolitan-based charities but also of Grant Bill 1999. Section 10 of that Bill specifies regional-based and smaller charities, what has the circumstances under which vehicles of 4.5 the Treasurer done? He has attempted to tonnes or more are entitled to a fuel grant, make an ignoble "cash for comment" deal with including the requirement that the vehicle is charities whereby money for training staff in "for transporting passengers or goods". In administration of the GST is conditional on the relation to road plant, this would include gravel organisations signing a contract in which they trucks, bitumen trucks and water trucks but must agree to positively promote the GST and would exclude rollers, graders, backhoes, the Howard/Costello Government. sweepers and the like because they are not for the transport of passengers and goods. It is not in the nature of those who work for charitable, community and church-based This is a grossly anomalous situation organisations to speak out politically; they which would appear to have no relationship to rightly attempt to work with whichever party is the environmental objectives of the Bill. The in Government and, as is the culture of the Bill also created concerns about the charitable sector, to do the best they can with implications of differentiating between on-road the resources available, reliant as they are on and off-road vehicles. A wide range of council the generosity of volunteers in time and responsibilities involves the use of registered donations. vehicles above the 4.5 tonne threshold in off- road situations. Significantly, many of these Honourable members opposite frequently uses relate to councils' environmental and arrogantly propound their supposed responsibilities, including parks, gardens, devotion to, and knowledge of, country areas beach/foreshore protection, drainage, bush fire of Queensland. I challenge them on this issue services, pest and weed control, to admit what, therefore, they must know—that garbage/refuse disposal and recycling centres. the GST could mean disaster for charities in Other major off-road plant and equipment country centres and small towns. requirements involve quarries, road Costello will not, and must not, get away construction/maintenance and with this sleazy deal. It is for all members of airports/aerodromes construction and this House—and especially those from the maintenance. coalition parties—to get this message through The Bill will create an administrative to their Federal counterparts and thereby save nightmare in the keeping of logbooks for all the charities and their needy clients from plant items specifically recording on-road and forced reductions in much needed services. off-road usage. Local government is the Minister's responsibility. If the Minister cannot handle this matter, I will offer him bipartisan Southern Moreton Bay Islands support in an effort to try to resolve this issue. Mr PAFF (Ipswich West—ONP) Resolution of the issue is a simple matter. (10.27 a.m.): On Sunday, 28 November 1999, Local government Ministers from the States I visited the southern Moreton Bay islands. I and the Commonwealth should come together was invited to these islands by the island in an attempt to try to resolve this issue. communities who are gravely concerned about I took a proposed resolution of the their plummeting land valuations and rising problem to Senator Woodley. We can solve rates. this issue by a collective approach— I first travelled to Macleay Island where I Time expired. was met by about 50 residents at Steve's Tavern. These people are concerned about the amount of rates that they have paid over Goods and Services Tax the last 25 years. They have received very little Ms BOYLE (Cairns—ALP) (10.25 a.m.): return from the Redland Shire Council in the So far as the goods and services tax is way of infrastructure. The roads on the island concerned, charity and community service could only be described as a disgrace. If one 7 Dec 1999 Questions Without Notice 5941 travels anywhere off a road one will find that argues that commercially and business wise, it hundreds of car bodies have been dumped, ruins our credibility as a major trading centre owing to the council's levy on the disposal of and millions of dollars are lost due to car bodies. Rather than pay the levy, people communication breakdowns between our simply dump the cars in the bush. This is major cities. Tourism is also badly affected, as creating an eyesore and an environmental many of our outstanding attractions must hazard. I attended Macleay Island Bowls Club cease operation as night falls. We are unable where I was again questioned on similar to take advantage of our warm and sunny matters by many people. climate to benefit from its many pleasures. It is I suggest that people living on the our lifestyle to work longer hours— southern Moreton Bay islands have very little Mr SPEAKER: The time for private representation from local and State members' statements has expired. Government. I then travelled to Russell Island— QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE Mr HEGARTY: I rise to a point of order. I find that remark offensive and untrue and I ask Special Schools that it be withdrawn. Dr WATSON (10.30 a.m.): I direct a question to the Minister for Education. Mr PAFF: If the member finds it Following on from his ministerial statement, offensive—I doubt that it is offensive—I will can the Minister inform the House how many withdraw it. special schools will lose teacher and teacher The residents raised concerns about ferry aide time under his changes to the staffing and barge services, electricity and water levies, model and the total number of teachers and falling land values and high rates. There is little teacher aides those same schools will lose hope that they will receive relief from high rates next year? Can the Minister confirm that in as the Redland Shire Council has ignored Brisbane alone, they include the Inala Special these people. The people on the islands need School, the Redland District Special School, their own Moreton Bay island shire council, the Calamvale Special School—which the which would enable them to manage their own Minister should remember—the Darling Point economy. It would also ensure that island Special School, the Xavier Special School, and landowners receive the services they require. the Special Education Development units at The islands should eventually be joined the Kenmore South State School and the by bridges from Macleay Island to Karragarra Cavendish Road State School? Island to Russell Island, and from Russell Mr Wells: Read them out again? Island to Stradbroke Island. This would create Dr WATSON: For the Minister's benefit, an islands economic zone which would do they include the Inala Special School, the generate jobs and create empathy between Redland District Special School, the Calamvale the islands. Island families and their children Special School, the Darling Point Special could work on the islands with employment— School, the Xavier Special School, the Time expired. Thornlands Special School, and the Special Education Development units at the Kenmore South State School and the Cavendish Road Daylight Saving State School? Mrs ATTWOOD (Mount Ommaney—ALP) Mr WELLS: The honourable member's (10.29 a.m.): I rise to speak on the important question is extremely detailed but, with respect and age-old issue of daylight saving in to a number of the schools that he has Queensland. A resident of my electorate, referred to, there have been declines in Eddie Pullan, has become very passionate enrolments, as indicated by the latest about this issue and has spoken to many information given to the department by the others with like minds. He says that almost all local principal. That is so, if I remember the people he speaks to bemoan the fact that correctly, for at least half of the schools that we do not have daylight saving in line with New the honourable member mentioned. South Wales and Victoria. I might say that this is a very important In the 1992 referendum, in south-east issue. It is one that we need to treat very Queensland, 602,590, that is 60.4%, voted for seriously. Basically, at stake is the question of daylight saving and 395,061, that is 39.6%, whether a child in a special school setting, or a voted against it. Some of the disadvantages special education unit, assessed at a certain we suffer by not being in line with our southern level, should receive resources equivalent to counterparts affect our daily lives. Eddie any other child in any other setting, provided 5942 Questions Without Notice 7 Dec 1999 that child has the same levels of ascertained Mr BEATTIE: I thank the honourable special needs. My department has in place a member for the question. My Government did process that is designed to do that. promise to lift the standard of politics in This is not the sort of thing in respect of Queensland, and yet again we are delivering which it is appropriate for honourable members on that pledge. Cabinet, which met in Charters to go around the State whipping up angst and Towers on Monday, has decided to legislate to grief. I have a document here that is headed, end any possible confusion for voters over "Protest Rally". It says— how-to-vote cards. The Attorney-General and I announced the decision. This is in line with "For Parents and Students recommendations from the Court of Disputed To protest against staff reduction in the Returns after the challenge to the Mansfield Special Education Area." result at the last State election. Cabinet has This document is misleading. There is no staff given authority for the preparation of legislation reduction in the special education area. There that will largely reflect the suggestions of the is a massive increase in staff of 125 teachers Court of Disputed Returns and the in the special education area. The document recommendations of the all-party Legal, continues— Constitutional and Administrative Review Committee, which has also examined this "When: Wednesday, 8th December 1999. issue. The Attorney-General will be introducing Where: Parliament House. that legislation as soon as it is drafted. ... The day after Justice Mackenzie handed Come and be part of the Parliamentary down the decision of the Court of Disputed Question Time. Returns on the Mansfield challenge, the Attorney-General referred the court's Banners are welcome, as media will be recommendations to the committee, which there. was the fairest way of dealing with these Further Information ... Paul Turner." matters. We have now moved quickly to We know who Paul Turner is, and he is up- ensure the issue is resolved. Amendments will front about it. The document states further— be made to the Electoral Act and the Local Government Act to regulate how-to-vote cards "Paul Turner Senior Media Adviser and in relation to challenges to election results. for the Liberal Party." Justice Mackenzie identified possible reforms Any number of special school students' to how-to-vote cards concerning second parents are welcome to speak to me, my staff preferences and he also referred to the current or my departmental officers, and they will be inability of a petitioner to the Court of Disputed received. They only have to ask for an Returns to appeal its decision. This legislation appointment. will address those problems. For honourable members opposite, either The main challenges will involve ensuring this man is out of the control of the Opposition that how-to-vote cards bear in sufficiently sized or he is behaving most inappropriately by print the name of the party or Independent manipulating the parents of students from candidate on whose behalf they are special schools. distributed, amending the Local Government Mr Elder: Under direction. Act to adopt the same measure for council elections, and allowing decisions from the Mr WELLS: He is either under direction or Court of Disputed Returns to be appealed to he is out of control. He is encouraging people the Court of Appeal. These reforms will mean to bring banners to question time as the media that more information and better information will be there. This is not policy, this is will be made available to voters. opportunism. This is not desirable behaviour for honourable members. I promised, and my Government promised, that we would clean up these matters, and we have. No political party, Court of Disputed Returns, including the Labor Party, the Liberal Party, Recommendations the National Party, One Nation, or the Mr SULLIVAN: I refer the Premier to his Democrats, gets preferential treatment: comments about improving standards in public everyone gets treated exactly the same. This life, and I ask: has the Government responded clean-up measure is important. to recommendations flowing from the Court of In relation to lifting the tone and improving Disputed Returns hearings on the Mansfield politics in this place, I am disappointed to see result in last year's State election? that today the Liberal Party in this House is 7 Dec 1999 Questions Without Notice 5943 trying to use children with disabilities as pawns The number that is given— in the political game. I say to all of those Mr QUINN: I rise to a point of order. I find opposite that we need to lift the standards in the suggestion that I organised the rally this place, and we should not use children with offensive and untrue. That is not my disabilities as pawns. I hope that all thinking document. I ask for it be withdrawn. and decent Queenslanders would share my concern about this disgraceful performance Mr Welford: Dissociate yourself from it. today. Mr WELLS: If the honourable member is Dr WATSON: The Premier is deliberately dissociating himself from the document, then misleading the House. let him say so. Mr SPEAKER: No, that is no point of Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Minister will order. The member will resume his seat. have to withdraw under Standing Orders. Dr WATSON: Tell your Minister to— Mr WELLS: I withdraw, but let the honourable member dissociate himself from Mr SPEAKER: The member for Moggill this document. Perhaps the honourable will resume his seat. member would like to explain to the House Mr BEATTIE: The Leader of the Liberal why the phone number given is 3406 7989. Is Party is continuing to try to use children as that his telephone number? pawns. It does not get any lower than that. It is Mr QUINN: I will answer the question about time the member opposite lifted his gladly. The Office of the Opposition was asked game. to organise parking and staff, because the Minister would not. Special Schools Mr SPEAKER: Order! This is not a Mr QUINN: I refer the Minister for debate. The member will resume his seat. The Education to yesterday's news flash by the House will come to order. Queensland Teachers Union, which states that Mr WELLS: The inconsistency of the the special education staffing model was Opposition in respect of this matter is really reviewed by a working party of all key amazing. They are standing up arguing the stakeholder groups earlier this year, and I ask: case for special schools, but I have here why has the Minister ignored the "Briefing for Action" signed by Bob Quinn for recommendations of the working party? Can the closure of the Mackay Special School, the the Minister explain why he waited until Eight Miles Plains Special School and the December to advise special schools of next Toowoomba Special School. Who was the year's reduction in staff—just days before the right-hand man of the Minister who took that end of the school year? decision? Who was the man who advised the Mr WELLS: There is no reduction in staff Minister to close those special schools? It is in the special education area. The total the very man who is now giving out the Liberal number of teachers in the special education Party's telephone number in this House and area has increased by 125. There are more inviting people to bring banners to question teachers now in the special education area time. I table these documents. I invite the than there have ever been before. The honourable member for Merrimac to dissociate Opposition persists in trying to play politics himself from one or all of them. inappropriately with this issue. The protest rally that the honourable member whose question Smart State Strategy we have just heard is organising— Mr PURCELL: I refer the Premier to his Mr Schwarten: That he's organised. commitment to attract high technology Mr WELLS: His former right-hand man— industries to Queensland as part of the Smart Mr QUINN: I find the statement untrue State strategy. I ask: would he advise the and offensive and I ask that it be withdrawn. House of the most recent success? Mr SPEAKER: Order! The member will Mr BEATTIE: I am only too delighted to resume his seat. do that. I thank the honourable member for the question. I am delighted to advise the Mr WELLS: I withdraw whatever the House that AAPT Limited, which is one of member finds offensive. Instead, I will read Australia's top three telecommunication from his document— companies, has chosen the Gold Coast as the "Come and be part of the hub for a national roll-out of its CDMA or code Parliamentary Question Time. Banners division multiple access project. The Minister are welcome, as media will be there." for Communication and Information, Terry 5944 Questions Without Notice 7 Dec 1999

Mackenroth, and I announced that on Friday. National Party. Yesterday I noticed that he AAPT will site its headquarters at the purpose- launched his new crime policy. It had four built, high technology precinct at Varsity Lakes points. adjacent to Bond University. That precinct was Mr Schwarten interjected. developed by Delfin Property Group. CDMA is a new system that will offer users Mr BEATTIE: It had six points. To his the benefits of the present fixed and mobile amazement, I inform him that some of them systems in one package. It is likely to take over are already law. The reversed onus of proof laws forcing criminals to prove their assets are from the existing combination of fixed and legally gained to which he referred are already mobile telephones in many cases, as one law. handset can act as both a fixed and mobile phone. AAPT will spend around $250m in the next five years in Queensland developing the Land Clearing Cellular One business. As well as injecting funds into the local economy, the business will Mr SPRINGBORG: I ask the Minister for generate several hundred skilled high Emergency Services: does she agree with the technology jobs within the next few years. comments of the Premier that Queensland is AAPT's Cellular One Communications mobile on fire from one end to the other, because of phone business, based in Southport, has panic land clearing? Or does she agree with grown rapidly over the past four years. the assessments of her departmental fire officers reported in today's Courier-Mail that This is a significant move by AAPT and the fires are nothing unusual for this time of demonstrates the success of our commitment year and are mostly grass fire or pasture to attract the fast-growing information rejuvenation? Further, will she tell the House technology industry to this State. It also what percentage of the current fires in underlines Queensland's growing reputation as Queensland are attributable to bush fires or the Smart State. AAPT's chief executive, Larry pasture rejuvenation and what percentage are Williams, said last Friday that the company the result of panic tree clearing? was drawn to Queensland because it has a supportive political environment—that is us, Mrs ROSE: Any thinking member in this the Government—access to skilled people and Parliament and any other thinking person in the right infrastructure to readily expand their Queensland would know that a significant business. number of unauthorised fires are lit in Queensland every year. The member has Mr Speaker, that is the sort of progress asked for the percentage of the number of that you are seeing under my Government. authorised lit fires and the percentage of the Last week in a question on notice, the member for Southport asked: what else is number of unauthorised lit fires. I would love to Labor doing for the Gold Coast? I inform the be able to give him that information, but when member for Southport that this is just another in Government he did absolutely nothing achievement of this Government for about collating that type of information. I have Southport. We have only one Minister in this now put in place a system so that we can gather that information. As we are still in the Government who is from the Gold Coast and process of gathering that data, which has look at what happened. Last week, we finished been gradually collected throughout the year, I the Pacific Motorway. There is the convention will be able to have a better idea of the figures. centre. Now we have AAPT. An honourable member: City heart. Firefighters, both rural volunteers and urban, have reported their frustrations in recent Mr BEATTIE: There is also the city heart times about deliberately lit blazes. They are proposal. Members opposite could not even the ones who have to fight the flames. They finish building a road. We had to come along are the ones who are often put at great risk. and bail them out and finish building that road. Obviously, those responsible for lighting the We have the convention centre. fires do not think of the ramifications of their Mr Schwarten interjected. actions, nor do they care. We have 2,000 fire Mr BEATTIE: What it says is that one of wardens across the State who manage the our Ministers is better than four of theirs. permit to burn system. They are experienced Perhaps we can get that in the Gold Coast in fire control and burn-off management. There Bulletin. is no excuse for not seeking a permit from a fire warden. The rural fire service is made up of Mr Springborg interjected. 1,600 brigades and covers about 90% of the Mr BEATTIE: Here we go—we hear State surface. Landowners, many of whom are interjections from the Deputy Leader of the brigade volunteers, are aware of their 7 Dec 1999 Questions Without Notice 5945 obligations under the system. However, the community and charitable organisations. At system is designed to provide a flexible and the time of the introduction of the GST they grassroots approach to hazard mitigation. were told by those opposite and their Federal Wardens are knowledgeable of their local colleagues that the GST would have no impact conditions and set strict permit guidelines, on their ability to do business—none. What do which, at the same time, seek to assist we see now? A complete abrogation of that! landowners carry out hazard mitigation They told a lie back then and now they are activities. We are gathering the data that the responsible for dealing with the outcome of the Deputy Leader of the Opposition is seeking. GST. We will see the GST applied to fetes, Mr Schwarten interjected. chocolate wheels, chook raffles and apple bobbing. Honourable members opposite Mrs ROSE: I think it is also important that should tell all of the community organisations the Deputy Leader of the Opposition joins with in their electorates that their GST will be us to urge all landowners to seek out their local impacting on all sporting, community and fire wardens so that we can ensure that all charitable organisations. However, it is more burn-offs can occur with the proper controls serious than that. This is about a GST on the and within the system guidelines. likes of the Leukemia Foundation, the Endeavour Foundation and the Cancer Goods and Services Tax Council. Dr CLARK: Further to a similar question I Mr Hegarty interjected. asked on this topic, I ask the Minister for State Mr ELDER: The honourable member Development and Minister for Trade: can he should tell the Redlands Show Society that his please indicate the way in which the GST will have an impact on it. introduction of the goods and services tax has been regarded by the business community For example, in one year's time the GST and what the Government is doing to help will have an impact on the Leukemia small business adjust? Foundation. A number of honourable members deliver meals on wheels. In one Mr ELDER: As a Government we are year's time, a GST will be added to meals on concerned about the impact of the GST on wheels. It will not apply this year, but it will small businesspeople and we have been apply next year. Honourable members endeavouring to assist them through our opposite should visit people in their electorates Budget, as opposed to the Budget of the and speak about the impost next year of their Federal Government, which knocked back tax on charitable organisations. support for us to provide assistance to small businesspeople through the 16 State The GST will have a big impact on small Development Centres around the State. Our businesses, but it will have an even bigger Government has been working with small impact on all of those community, charitable business. and sporting organisations that the Opposition Small businesspeople view the GST with has deliberately misled. Last year and the year trepidation. All of them are concerned about before that, members opposite and their the compliance measures and what it will Federal colleagues said there would be no mean to their businesses. The small impact on their operations through the GST. businesspeople at the Kingaroy Community They lied. Each and every one of them told a Cabinet told me that, if they could not comply, falsehood. From this point onwards there will they would close the door and walk away; they be a GST on all of those operations. I did not have the capacity to absorb and challenge the honourable member to go to the manage the GST. That is the most telling point Redlands and tell all of the sporting concerning the GST's introduction in organisations and the Redlands Show Society Queensland. We have a large small business about the impost of the GST. sector, and the GST will impact across-the- Time expired. board. Not one finger is being lifted by the Federal Government—the colleagues of members opposite; their tax—to help small Atherton Hospital business adjust to, comply and deal with the Mr NELSON: I refer the Minister for Health introduction of the biggest impost they have to the decision to close the laundry facilities at ever had on their businesses. the Atherton Hospital and the AWU stop-work There is not only confusion in the meeting that I attended on Monday, and I ask: business community; there is confusion right how does this decision stand with respect to across-the-board, including among sporting, her previous statement that no facilities would 5946 Questions Without Notice 7 Dec 1999 be closed at the Atherton Hospital and her Mr NELSON: I rise to a point of order. I scornful attitude to my raising this issue? ask for that statement to be withdrawn. It is Mrs EDMOND: The commitment we gave untrue and I find it offensive. was that there would be no loss of services at Mr SPEAKER: Order! It was not a the Atherton Hospital. I am pleased to reflection on the honourable member. announce that there will be an upgrade of services at the Atherton Hospital. We will not Mr NELSON: It is a reflection on me, be asking people to continue working in the because the question I asked is true. Jobs will 18th century conditions, as we move into the be lost, and the Minister knows that is true. year 2000, that the member seems to be Honourable members interjected. happy for them to work in. Mr SPEAKER: I found it very difficult to Mr NELSON: I rise to a point of order. The hear that, because of some other interjections. member is misleading the House. There are I invite the honourable member to explain why no 18th century conditions. I have inspected he thinks it should be withdrawn. the conditions. They certainly do not meet those standards. Mr NELSON: Mr Speaker, I find it offensive because there will be jobs lost. It is Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no point of an untrue statement. I find it personally order. The honourable member will resume his offensive. seat. Mr SPEAKER: No, that is not a point of Mr NELSON: That was a misleading order. It has to be a personal reflection on the statement. honourable member. There is no point of Mr SPEAKER: Order! The honourable order. I call the Minister for Health. member will resume his seat. Mrs EDMOND: There will be a job lost at Mrs EDMOND: The Atherton Hospital the next election, and that will affect the laundry was condemned by workplace health honourable member. We will welcome the day and safety in a report to the previous Minister. they again get some reasonable However, he chose not to act on it. He did not representation. care if people were injured or harmed through We are concerned about the working unsafe working conditions. We have been conditions there. That is why we are going to looking for a resolution to this. I should point be putting in a new, modern service. Anybody out that the stop-work meeting was called by who has looked at laundry services would the member for Tablelands as well as the know that a new, modern service can do AWU. So he had a little finger in that pie. We everything required on the tablelands—one are about providing a modern, new and safe service. That is what is happening. One of the working environment for the people of temporary workers will be given a full-time job. Atherton. There will be no loss of jobs, and we If that is what the honourable member is have discussed that with them. In fact, one of objecting to—I am sorry that we are giving the temporary workers will be given a somebody a permanent job when they had permanent job. only a temporary job before, if it offends the Mr NELSON: I rise to a point of order. The member for Tablelands. Minister is misleading the House. The casual Mr NELSON: Mr Speaker, I find that staff will become unemployed. offensive and untrue and ask for it to be Mr SPEAKER: This— withdrawn. Mr NELSON: It is misleading. Mr SPEAKER: No, that is not a point of Mr SPEAKER: Order! This is not a order. debate. The honourable member can raise Mr NELSON: But it was personal in that that at 6 p.m.. the Minister said that I was trying to go against Mr NELSON: It is a misleading statement. these people getting a job. She knows that it is not being built at Atherton. Mr SPEAKER: The honourable member will resume his seat. Mr SPEAKER: Order! The debate is finished. The member for Tablelands will Mr NELSON: Mr Speaker, I ask for— resume his seat. I call the Minister. Mr SPEAKER: Order! The honourable member will resume his seat. There is no point Mrs EDMOND: I am delighted that— of order. I call the Minister. Time expired. 7 Dec 1999 Questions Without Notice 5947

Goods and Services Tax the Federal Government started to cut back on Mr MUSGROVE: I refer the Treasurer to its ideology on this and started to honour its the negative impact that the GST will have on commitments to the charitable sector. Before Queensland's tourism and housing industries the last Federal election, charities were told and the increasing compliance cost being that they would be exempt; that they would be borne by small business, and I ask: are there protected. The biggest con trick that the other sectors of the Queensland economy that Liberal and National Parties have indulged in over the past 12 months has been this con on will be adversely affected through the charities. introduction of the GST? Mr HAMILL: The member for The Federal Government ought to honour Springwood's question refers directly to the its commitment and exempt the payments matters that have been raised by a number of made to those charities and community members in the House this morning, and that organisations from the impact of the GST. The Queensland Government will add its voice to is the very serious impacts that the GST will calls to protect the charitable and non-profit have on the provision of community sector. These services need to be provided to services—in many cases, services to those in the community. They do not need Peter the community who are least able to look after Costello and John Howard putting out their their own interests. I refer here to the variety of hand to take the funds out of the mouths of charities and community organisations that will those who most need support. be impacted very severely by a goods and services tax. Already the small business sector in the community is crying out because of the horrendous costs of compliance involved with Land Clearing the introduction of a goods and services tax, Mr LESTER: I refer the Minister for and those compliance costs are now going to Primary Industries to comments made by the be brought to bear on the communities sector Premier yesterday linking seasonal burning off as well. of pasture in central and northern Queensland Just so honourable members understand with so-called panic clearing, and I ask: as exactly how this impact will be felt, they ought Minister responsible for Primary Industries and to reflect upon these facts: non-profit bodies the supposed "farmers' friend" in Cabinet, has are required to register for the GST if their total he briefed the Premier since then on the taxable supplies are expected to be $100,000 practicalities of pasture and land or more. When we look at the term "taxable management, or does he support the supplies", we see that the Federal Premier's latest attack on the reputation of Government means the commercial activities hardworking primary producers? and the sale of property on the part of those Mr PALASZCZUK: I would like to thank organisations. But it will really bite on charities the honourable member for his question. involved in fundraising and collecting Mr Mackenroth: It's his anniversary. memberships. Furthermore, Government grants to those organisations will be regarded Mr PALASZCZUK: Of course, it is his as supplies and will be subject to the GST. anniversary question. That is where these organisations will feel the pinch. If an organisation is receiving over As honourable members would know, $100,000 through that category, they are Queensland has had a very good season this required to register and go through all of the year for rainfall. We certainly have had an compliance activity. Those groups might have increase in pasture growth, and some of that a chance, though, of trying to claw some of pasture growth needs to be burnt off around that back. But they will have to go through the this time of the year. However, I listened very registration process and all of the paperwork carefully to the answer given by the involved in claiming input credits. But that Honourable Minister for Emergency Services. I would involve a lot of paperwork. understand that she gave a commitment to the honourable member for Warwick that she What about the smaller organisations that is collating information on the incidence of do not have resources coming to them in illegal burn-offs in this State. When that excess of $100,000? They do not have to information becomes available, I will monitor it register, but they do not get any input credits, very carefully and I will then be able to make a either. Their grants and so on will not go as far reasoned decision. Until I get that information, as they do now. That means that they will I do not wish to comment on the issue any have to cut back on services. It is about time further. 5948 Questions Without Notice 7 Dec 1999

Inappropriate Prizes For example, we do not permit charitable Mr REEVES: I draw the attention of the lotteries and so on to offer firearms as prizes, Treasurer to widespread community concern nor should we. We do not allow other products about the appropriateness of some prizes, in which may be restricted or illegal to be offered particular cosmetic surgery, being offered in as prizes. In this case, this sort of activity— lotteries and trade promotions, and I ask: does cosmetic surgery—is a wholly inappropriate the Treasurer share these concerns and what prize to be offered. Because of the action action can be taken to ensure that taken by this Government, those sorts of inappropriate prizes are not offered in such prizes will not be able to be offered in future competitions? here in Queensland. Mr HAMILL: These matters have been drawn to my attention. In fact, it is with great Queensland Building Services Authority concern that I note that some organisations Mr DAVIDSON: I refer the Minister for Fair have been seeking to offer prizes of cosmetic Trading to the fact that, during the recent surgery in relation to certain fundraising passage of her much-lauded QBSA legislation, events. The issues are actually very serious I posed the proposition that that Bill should and, in fact, have been the subject of make it contractually compulsory for correspondence. developers to provide satisfactory financial Mr Johnson: Would you like to win the information within the contract which prize? guarantees funds are available and sufficient Mr HAMILL: If the member for Gregory to complete the project, no matter the size of were in a competition, he would have to be the the development. Naturally the Minister chose unlucky door prize. While he may feel that this to ignore that advice. I ask: given the failure is a trivial matter, I assure him that it is far from and financial collapse of Wright Bros and trivial. In fact, I received correspondence from Medhurst Master Builders and their the Health Minister in relation to this matter, inadequacy to fund the Golden Paradise expressing her very deep concern at this sort Resort at Mudjimba Beach, what action do she of practice. This might be of some interest to and the QBSA propose to save approximately the member for Gregory. The Health Minister 137 creditors and subbies in this $2.218m has commented in relation to these prizes of venture crash from financial extinction? cosmetic surgery in the following terms. This Ms SPENCE: It would be wrong for the was in relation to an inquiry report that had shadow Minister to pretend in this House that been received by our colleague the Minister for he moved any amendments to the QBSA Health in New South Wales in October this legislation during its passage through the year. The Minister for Health stated— House. He did not. As with other legislation, "... the inquiry found that cosmetic surgery such as the retirement villages legislation, procedures and products have been despite getting up and making some hocus- offered as prizes in competitions. The pocus suggestions as to what we could do with offering of cosmetic surgery procedures the Bill— as prizes trivialises the seriousness of the Mr Schwarten: He did nothing. surgery and suggests that anyone can Ms SPENCE: He does nothing when it diagnose themselves as suitable for the comes to the hard work of formulating his own procedure offered. Such practices have amendments to the legislation. It would be been unanimously condemned by the wrong for anyone to assume that the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, honourable member for Noosa has any the Australian College of Cosmetic knowledge or any understanding of the QBSA Surgery and the Royal Australasian legislation or any interest in what goes on in College of Surgeons." fair trading legislation in this House. However, I have taken the necessary action with the the whole issue of Medhurst Master Builders is Office of Gaming Regulation to prevent the one of concern to me as Minister responsible offering of these sorts of prizes in promotional for the QBSA. I am happy to talk about that activities here in Queensland. They are issue. In common with other members, I am inappropriate; they can represent a danger to very concerned about the plight of the the person who may win the prize and seek to subcontractors who have fallen victim to a act upon that prize. series of unfortunate incidents of business Frankly, in my book, they are of the same failure on the Medhurst project. class as other sorts of prizes that may be I think honourable members would notice offered which would similarly be inappropriate. that neither the QBSA nor the Government 7 Dec 1999 Questions Without Notice 5949 has drawn criticism due to the failure of this to our State's economy. The year 2000 will be particular project. That is because the QBSA our biggest year to date and Queensland will really has gone to great lengths to resolve the host at least one major international event dispute and to ensure, when possible, that the every month during the year 2000. At least six subcontractors were paid throughout this of these events will be staged in regional project. In fact, in recent months, thanks to a Queensland centres, stretching from Cairns to deal brokered by the BSA, the workers have Warwick. been paid $1.5m to $2m. Their complaint now This is what makes Queensland Events is about non-payment of money owing from so very different from the Melbourne Events almost a year ago—before the BSA got Corporation, for example, which simply makes involved in the dispute. That was when sure that events come into the City of Medhurst Master Builders, which was an Melbourne itself. In Queensland we are keen unlicensed building company, went into to make sure that we share throughout the administration. regional centres of Queensland the success of Under the new legislation there will be a the Queensland Events Corporation and this warning on contracts advising subcontractors Government. not to sign contracts with unlicensed builders. Regional events obviously include the That is the first thing that the new legislation Magic Millions carnival on the Gold Coast, the will address. Under the new legislation, Woodford Folk Festival, the Asia-Pacific subcontractors will be able,without affecting Orienteering Championships in Warwick, the the contract, to down tools after 35 days if they Cairns Half Ironman Triathlon, Beef 2000 in are not paid. That is something that will help Rockhampton and, of course, the 9th World subcontractors in a situation such as this. Outrigger Canoe Sprint Championships in This is a very complicated issue. I am Townsville. These events ensure that satisfied that since December last year the Queensland is well positioned for further BSA has done all within its power to broker the tourism growth into the new millennium. best deal for subcontractors on this particular The Queensland Events Corporation has issue. I am happy to provide a more detailed been generating an average of $22 in briefing to the member for Noosa or any other economic activity for every $1 that the honourable member, because it is a Government invests in events. This means complicated and important issue. I think it is tourism and jobs for Queensland. In the past deserving of much more attention than the 10 years, Queensland Events has generated couple of minutes in which I have to speak an estimated 5,500 new jobs for about it this morning. Queenslanders from major events. In 2000 alone, events to be hosted by Queensland will generate an estimated $150m in economic Queensland Events Corporation activity for the State. This will be generated by Ms NELSON-CARR: I refer the Minister for the estimated 104,000 interstate and Tourism, Sport and Racing to his international visitors who will travel to announcement in Townsville yesterday that Queensland for major events in 2000. These Queensland will host next year's ninth World visitors will stay in Queensland accommodation Outrigger Canoe Sprint Championships, and I for almost 400,000 nights. This represents a ask: can he inform the House what other huge direct impact for the tourism industry. successes the Queensland Events Corporation We are currently working at securing has had in securing international events for events beyond 2006, which reflects the Queensland? increased international competition for major events. Queensland Events is in the final Mr GIBBS: I thank the honourable stage of negotiations over a number of other member for Mundingburra for her question. events, of which we hope to announce two in She would obviously be delighted with the the next month. I congratulate Des Power and statement that was made yesterday in relation his team for the fantastic job they are doing for to the World Outrigger Canoe Sprint Queensland. I assure the Treasurer of one Championships being held next year in thing here today: in terms of major events for Townsville. Queensland, implants for the member for The Queensland Events Corporation has Gregory will not be on the list. been an outstanding success in the 10 years since it was formed in 1989. Major events that the corporation has secured for Queensland Sale of Alcohol by Retail Outlets between July 1998 and 2006 alone represent Mr HEALY: I refer the Minister for a portfolio of events worth more than $1 billion Tourism, Sport and Racing to the NCP review 5950 Questions Without Notice 7 Dec 1999 of the Liquor Act earlier this year which Unlike the previous Government, this recommended, among other things, that major Government is doing something about it. I am retailers not be given entry to the retail liquor pleased to inform the House that the State market in Queensland. I refer also to the Training Council has recently approved 10 new decision to hold a further round of Certificate III and Certificate IV traineeship consultation, which finished some weeks ago. I courses in cooperation with the Queensland ask: has the Government finally caved in to Information Industries Training Advisory Board. pressure from the major retailers and does the This is particularly important given that the use Minister intend to allow supermarkets to sell of IT & T technologies is expanding not only certain categories of alcohol, such as wine? If across the State but also across all industries. not, why is the so-called can-do Government These new traineeship courses on offer will taking so long to come to a final decision? provide students with mid-level and advanced Mr GIBBS: If there is a person in this IT & T skills. It also acknowledges the place who understands the words "caved in", it important fact that experience both here in would be the member for Toowoomba North. Australia and internationally shows that the He is an expert in that area. The short answer university sector alone does not have the is no, there has been no decision made by this capacity to meet the IT & T skills demand. Government. Indeed, the Premier himself Because of this, vocational education and gave an undertaking in the House only a training will be relied upon more heavily in the couple of weeks ago that the decision has future to develop and maintain skills in the basically been made. There will be no sale of industry. alcohol in supermarkets. I do not know how In this financial year our Government is much more plainly the member needs it to be providing an injection of more than $38m made to him. towards meeting Queensland's information technology and telecommunications training skills. This represents a 25% increase on last Information Technology year's allocation and is almost 9% of the Mrs ATTWOOD: Could the Minister for State's vocational education and training Employment, Training and Industrial Relations budget. It is a substantial commitment but one outline what is being done in vocational which needs to be made to ensure that all training in Queensland to combat the existing Queenslanders have the chance to participate skills shortage in the information technology in the burgeoning IT & T industry and the industry? global marketplace. With the injection of funds Mr BRADDY: I thank the honourable from the budget as well as the introduction of member for the question. We have to consider the information technology training packages, this very important matter in the context of both public and private training providers can skills shortages that are occurring at a time take advantage of the opportunities. when the turnover of Queensland's IT & T industry—as my colleague the Minister for Tree-clearing Guidelines Communication and Information knows full well—is estimated to be $8.2 billion a year and Dr PRENZLER: My question is directed to growing at the rate of 12% per year. He and the Premier. Nobody else seems to want to his department are working very hard in ask this question, so I will. I refer the Premier relation to this important industry. to his comments in yesterday's Courier-Mail. He is quoted as expressing concern at the It is also very important that training keeps number of fires he saw on his trip to Charters pace. Earlier this year a study commissioned Towers. I ask: was the aircraft low enough to by my department found that Queensland had identify the actual source of the smoke? Was for some time—certainly in the life of the the Premier able to distinguish between the previous Government—been experiencing burning of cleared virgin forests, the burning of shortages in a number of areas with regard to cleared regrowth and the annual burn-off of information technology. These include dead grass in preparation for the new growth networking and Internet technology, to follow the spring and summer rains? Is the application of major software, software Premier aware that the vast majority of so- engineers, marketing and sales staff for IT & T called clearing in Queensland is actually services and in-depth technical skills in the regrowth control? telecommunications and electronics sectors. There is a lack of university graduates to meet Mr BEATTIE: The answer to those ongoing demand from the core IT & T questions is yes, yes and yes, and if the industries and other industries using IT & T member wants to ask me anything else the skills. answer will be yes as well. The bottom line with 7 Dec 1999 Questions Without Notice 5951 all of this is very simple. My Government has opposite continue to take useless points of faced up to the tough decisions. We have order. They disrupt question time. If they want done it in relation to the regional forest to go back to the old system of unlimited time agreement, we have done it in relation to laws for answers, I am prepared to consider it. governing prostitution, we will do it in relation to Otherwise, let us have some respect for the land clearing and the list goes on. It is not Parliament. easy to resolve these issues, but we have Mr HOBBS: Mr Speaker, I rise to a point always faced up to our responsibility. This is of order. about balance. Mr BEATTIE: Here is a senseless point of Mr Hobbs interjected. order. Mr SPEAKER: Order! If the member for Mr HOBBS: I rise to a point of order. Warrego wants to ask a question, he will have Those fires have been occurring there since that opportunity. Captain Cook came along, and they will still be Mr BEATTIE: The important things here occurring there next year. are balance, sustainability and ensuring that Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no point of the land will be there for future generations to order. The member will resume his seat. be used for farming—to be used in the way that the farmers want it to be used. I have sat Mr BEATTIE: I highlight to the Parliament down with the farmers. I am meeting with and to the people of Queensland that the farmers again this afternoon. I have sat down member for Warrego, who is disrupting the with environmentalists, as have my Ministers. I Parliament, has no respect for the process. I will be meeting with them again this afternoon. am prepared to consider changing things so I will be meeting with all of the stakeholders to that Ministers get a chance to answer try to work out an agreed solution. questions. Time expired. One thing that I will not do is betray the future of this State, which the Opposition is doing. It is not playing a constructive role to Tugun Bypass ensure sustainability of land use in this State. Mr JOHNSON: I refer the Minister for The Opposition is selling out the farmers Transport and Minister for Main Roads to the because it is not prepared to stand up for Roads Implementation Program 1999-2004, sustainability. I have worked very closely with released by the Minister recently. I note that these farmers. I know exactly what I saw on the weekend. I was in a very good position to the indicative costs for the Tugun bypass have see it. I am prepared to face up to the facts increased from the $80m in last year's honestly and openly and to deal with them document to $157m. I ask: can the Minister honestly and openly. The question about explain this significant increase in estimated leadership, the question about doing the right costs? Will the Minister also confirm, for the thing by Queensland, is about facing the facts benefit of the member for Currumbin, that the and the truth. I was able— only approved allocations relate to planning and design and that no construction is An Opposition member interjected. provided for before 2004 at the earliest? Mr BEATTIE: The honourable member Mr BREDHAUER: We completed our 21st did not have the courage to ask the question. Community Cabinet meeting in Charters At least the member for Lockyer did. The Towers yesterday. I have to say that, over member should have a bit of decency. those 21 Community Cabinet meetings in Opposition members interjected. about 18 months, we have been right throughout western and far-northern parts of Mr BEATTIE: These cowards opposite are Queensland. Charters Towers was of particular not prepared to ask, but the member for interest to me because of a personal reason, Lockyer is, and I will give him an honest but we met many bucolic members like the answer. I saw the difference. There was member for Gregory and others who were burning off— associated with the bush and who have an Opposition members interjected. interest in pastoral areas. Mr BEATTIE: Mr Speaker, are we going The question that the member raises is to continue to have question time disrupted by important. If he had been paying attention to those opposite? They continue to disrupt this the debate about the Tugun bypass over the House. We have a three-minute time limit for past 18 months, he would know that the answers to questions. I restricted Ministers to primary reason for the significant increase in answering questions in three minutes. Those cost is that the route alignment has changed. 5952 Questions Without Notice 7 Dec 1999

When the initial estimate of cost was done, Mr SCHWARTEN: I take this opportunity there were four route options which were under to congratulate the honourable member on his consideration. In the process of trying to year's anniversary of returning to this place. I determine a route option which had the best also want to point out that, in common with prospects of surviving an impact assessment many other members on this side of the process that would be approved by both the Chamber, the honourable member takes an New South Wales and Federal Governments— active interest in the apprenticeships that are which is required because part of the Tugun offered by Q-Build. Indeed, many members on bypass project is in New South Wales—and this side of the Chamber have raised this very given that we want a significant contribution— issue with me. Notably, nobody on that side of in fact, we have had a commitment from the the Chamber has, on behalf of any of their Federal Government that it will contribute 50% constituents, raised this issue with me of the cost of the bypass project—we needed personally. That just leaves, I think, a sad and to meet the requirements of both the New sorry stain on those members opposite, South Wales and Commonwealth because they do hate Q-Build. We all know Governments. So we have come up with that. option C4—I think it is, from memory—and we Mr Johnson interjected. have had to change the alignment of the proposed bypass so that it will avoid, as much Mr SCHWARTEN: The member has as possible, the Cobaki Lakes area in northern already been described this morning as New South Wales, because it was clear that bucolic. If he wants to reinforce that, so be it. there were going to be significant The fact is that 90 new apprenticeships environmental implications associated with are available this year to young that. Queenslanders—140 positions in terms of In the process of attempting to avoid the those ongoing ones, which I announced Cobaki Lakes area, we looked at the route previously, to give people training option which has been agreed as a result of a opportunities, especially in the plumbing values management workshop, including all industry, where they get a licence after five the stakeholders and the Queensland and years, so that those people are far more skilled New South Wales State Governments and the and employable as a result. This year, we will Commonwealth. It looks like we will have to have eight school-based apprenticeships, tunnel under a possible extension of the which means that those people have a chance Coolangatta Airport. Being a former Minister to learn and earn and become more for Transport and Main Roads, the member employable when they leave school. would appreciate the cost of such a tunnel. It Q-Build also has a great interface with would not be under the existing runway, but Education Queensland, which has encouraged there are plans for future expansion of the this development throughout the State. These runway. And if the runway was ever expanded opportunities will, of course, occur in the in the way that the Airports Corporation hopes, Brisbane region, on the Sunshine Coast, in the the requirement would be for us to tunnel Whitsunday region, in north Queensland and under the extensions to the runway. That has in far-north Queensland. I encourage other led to a dramatic increase in the cost. The schools to look at that option next year, reality is that we have given a firm commitment because it really is a very favourable option. I to this project. We have put money into the know that a number of schools are looking at planning process. that. An honourable member interjected. The other point that needs to be made— since the term "bucolic" has been used this Mr BREDHAUER: Members opposite morning—is that Q-Build is something of a never advanced it anywhere. rustic organisation in terms of its interface with Time expired. rural Queensland. This does provide an opportunity for young people in the bucolic honourable member's electorate, for example, Q-Build Apprenticeships to get access to an apprenticeship. I know that Mr PITT: I refer the Minister for Public happened last year in Longreach and Works and Minister for Housing to applications Barcaldine, and we intend to make those for apprenticeships with Q-Build, which closed opportunities available again this year. recently, and I ask: can the Minister inform the The fact is that this Government will be House of the response to that call for responsible again for delivering 140 job applications and the timetable for the opportunities—trade opportunities—to young employment of new apprentices? Queenslanders. I encourage all members to 7 Dec 1999 Matters of Public Interest 5953 get behind that, because it is a unique We apologise to members of the public opportunity. And remember this: if members who have been inconvenienced by the delays opposite were sitting on this side of the House, that they have experienced at the ticketing those 140 positions would not exist for young inquiry areas. We have even had fairly senior Queensland people. We all remember the members of QR staffing desks in the ticketing Fitzgerald report and the attacks that have office in an attempt to relieve the burden. We been made on Q-Build this year. And we all are hopeful that we will completely overcome know what members opposite will do if ever the problem in the not too distant future. We they get back onto this side of the Chamber. have announced our normal half-price fares on Time expired. most of our Traveltrain network over the Christmas period. This is something that QR does regularly. A lot of people take advantage Queensland Rail Call Centre of this service at this time of year. Once again, I apologise to the people Mr SLACK: My question is for the Minister who suffered inconvenience. I can assure for Transport. those people that QR is working to rectify the Mr Bredhauer: Will you get it in today? problem as quickly as possible. We thank people for their patience. I am sure that within Mr SLACK: Yes, I will. I refer to and a short period QR will be resuming its normal welcome the Minister's timely statement last high standard of service. week on Queensland Transport's efforts to overcome intolerable call centre waiting times Mr SPEAKER: Order! The time for for driver licence testing, and I ask: does the questions has expired. improvement extend to Queensland Rail's Statewide 1300 booking number, to which MATTERS OF PUBLIC INTEREST increasing numbers of frustrated potential QR travellers have been unable to get through Suicide despite, I am told, more than two hours of Mr FELDMAN (Caboolture—ONP) trying? Can the Minister explain the logic (11.30 a.m.): I rise to inform the House about behind removing the telephones from regional White Wreath Day and an upcoming White ticketing offices, such as Bundaberg, which Wreath memorial service which is to be held has meant that people in outlying areas, on 29 March 2000. having failed to reach the 1300 number, must It is with a great deal of sadness in my drive a considerable distance to book travel heart that I rise today to inform the House tickets in person? And will he increase staff about the need for awareness of the increase numbers at the QR rail tickets call centre? in the incidence of suicide, especially in our Mr BREDHAUER: This is an important youth. While we hear a lot about suicide, we issue. Earlier this year, QR implemented a new rarely see a person who has the intestinal computerised ticketing system. It has had fortitude to stand resilient and do something some teething difficulties with the new concrete to raise the awareness of this matter computer system which was put in place to in the public forum. handle the reservations for the Traveltrain Whenever this subject of suicide arises, network. I have received representations from my thoughts go to a friend, a former member many members of this Parliament in respect of of this Legislative Assembly who took his own that, and I have received many letters from life in New Zealand earlier this year. I refer to members of the public who have expressed Mr Charles Rappolt. I know that suicide is a concern about the delays in making those matter of concern to all members of this bookings. House, especially in relation to our youth. There were some system failures which The adolescent health survey in Victoria related, as I understand it—in part at least—to found that 5.4% of Year 11 boys and 15% of the design of the computer package that QR Year 11 girls reported having had thoughts of purchased. Since those system failures suicide in the week before the survey was became evident when the new system went conducted. The Western Australian child live, QR has been working with the company health survey found that, amongst 12 to 14- that provided the system. We believe that we year-olds, 11.5% reported having considered are in the process of ironing out all of those suicide at some time during the previous six faults. In the meantime, QR has expended months. Amongst 15 to 16-year-olds, 23.5% significant efforts, including placing additional had considered suicide. A study of Swiss staff in its ticketing offices, to try to assist students suggested that transient thoughts of wherever possible. suicide were common. That is the tragedy. It 5954 Matters of Public Interest 7 Dec 1999 seems that as our youth approach their teens We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the and late teens the thought of suicide arises. soul. We have split the atom, but not our Today, I wish to highlight a Queensland prejudice. We write more, but learn less. mother's concerns and a Queensland mother's We plan more but accomplish less. We answer. I refer to the mother of a suicide have learned to rush, but not to wait, and victim. The woman is Mrs Fanita Clark, the we have higher incomes, but lower mother of Jason Dean Clark, who was 19 morals. We have more food, but less years of age when he suicided on 29 May appeasement. We build more computers 1999. He was suffering from depression and to hold more information to produce more paranoia. Mrs Clark describes her loss in two copies than ever before, but we have less stages. She said— personal communication. We have become long on quantity, but short on "I lost him first to depression, and quality. then six months later to death, death by These are the times of fast food, and slow his own hand, suicide." digestion, steep profits, and shallow Fanita describes suicide as Australia's silent relationships. These are the times of more killer because of the reluctance of people to leisure, but less fun, more kinds of food talk openly about it except in, maybe, politically but less nutrition. These are the days of correct terms or as statistical data. two incomes, but more divorce, fancier However, in a letter to me, as well as to houses, but broken homes. These are the many other members of Parliament, both days of quick trips, disposable nappies, State and Federal, and feeling quite upset, throw-away morality, one-night stands, she wrote these words— overweight bodies, and pills that can do everything, from cheer, to quiet, to sleep, "Rather than go into details, I blame to kill. It is a time when there is so much in you, past and present politicians for the show window, but nothing left in the creating this environment we live in, in store room, a time when technology can that our children feel that they are bring this letter to you, and a time when compelled to pay the ultimate price, you can choose to make a difference or death." not." She then added this poem entitled the She then added— Paradox of our Time. It reads— "If after reading this letter you feel "The paradox of our time in history is that just slightly guilty, then I have achieved we have taller buildings, but shorter my goal. You have now another suicide to tempers, wider freeways, but narrower add to your statistics." viewpoints, we spend more, but have I wrote back to her, concerned at the tone of less, we buy more, but enjoy less. her letter, and I also called her. I told her of my We have bigger houses and smaller police service and the countless tragic events families, more conveniences but less that I have had to cover in my career in the time, we have more degrees but less service. I also told her that suicide had sense, more choices but less judgment, touched my family as well, and that I believe more experts but more problems, more that there would hardly be a family that has medicine but less wellness. not felt the disbelief and anguish that suicide We drink too much, smoke too much, brings. But I also left her with a challenge. I spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive wrote— too fast, get angry too quickly, stay up too "The question remains as you posed late, get up too tired, read too seldom, it. Are you now going to make a and watch too much TV. We have difference yourself, or will the pain of the multiplied our possessions, but reduced memory of your loss just fade away and our values. We talk too much, listen too become another statistic? If you could just little, love too seldom, and hate too often. pick out one line of the list in the paradox We have learned to make a living but not of our time, have you got the heart to a life. We have added years to our life, stand and try to make that difference by but not life to our years. challenging the line?" We've been to the moon and back, but Challenged by this, and other letters that have trouble crossing the street to meet a Fanita Clark received, she stood up and made new neighbour. We've conquered outer a difference. space, but not inner space. We've done The inaugural White Wreath Day was 24 larger things, but not better things. November 1999. This occurred outside 7 Dec 1999 Matters of Public Interest 5955

Parliament House in Canberra and stands as a One of the most tragic things is that the tribute to her tenacity and to her work. This life that is lost is often lost not on purpose, but Logan City mother—just one woman—so sometimes in an accidental way. This morning, devastated by the loss of her son was moved we have received the tragic news that Australia to raise the awareness of suicide to the public, now leads the world in heroin overdose politicians and media in our society. Mrs Clark deaths, with something like 737 fatalities last refers to suicide as the "silent killer". year. So we all have reasons to pray and support the tenacity that Fanita showed when On that day, Fanita Clark was joined on she raised this matter as a matter of public the lawn at the front of Parliament House by awareness. I think that supporting her next such luminaries as the Prime Minister, the year on 29 March 2000 at that White Wreath Honourable John Howard, the Leader of the ceremony in Brisbane will be one way to show Opposition, Kim Beazley, Anglican Bishop our full support and our grief at the loss of Richard Randerson, singer Mark Lizotte— such young and not so young lives in this otherwise known as Johnny Diesel—and her manner. Federal member of Parliament, Craig Emerson, as well as a host of others, to lay their wreaths of remembrance. 24 November DNA Database will remain a national day to mark the loss of Mr LUCAS (Lytton—ALP) (11.40 a.m.): life through suicide. Today I want to advise the House about what Mrs Clark has returned to her home in is arguably the most important advance in Logan, but she has not forgotten the efforts of criminal detection and investigation since the Logan City Council in assisting her fingerprints—DNA profiling. DNA's extraordinary financially through all this. Today, she is unique quality, when added to the fact that an presenting the Logan City Council with a individual may leave a DNA sample at a scene certificate of appreciation for its support and or upon a victim's person in so many ways, encouragement. Mrs Clark was most particular indicates the true power of this revolution in when she said how much the Logan City criminal investigation. DNA profiling and Council had assisted and encouraged her as databasing is not only fast, accurate and she proceeded along the path of raising unique but also it protects the civil liberties of awareness of suicide within the public arena. those two most important groups in society: the victims, as DNA can ensure that the However, she has not let the matter rest perpetrator is identified conclusively; and the here. Fanita has organised, through the persons who are suspects in police council, to hold a White Wreath memorial investigations but who have not committed the service in King George Square, Brisbane City, offence, as it quickly and positively eliminates on 29 March 2000. Yesterday, she rang me them from suspicion. personally to thank me for the challenge that I extended to her, for the compassion with DNA was first used in 1984 as a unique which I dealt with her letter and for the technological application to the science of understanding that I showed in our personal identification. The then technique, conversations. I truly believe that this is one of restricted fragment length polymorphism— the most positive ways I have ever seen a RFLP—was slow, expensive, required a blood mother handle such a large degree of loss, stain about the size of a 10 cent piece and grief and doubt surrounding the death of her took about six weeks to produce. In 1986, a son. method termed polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, was discovered and that revolutionised I know that no matter where Jason is now, DNA testing. PCR requires only an extremely he could not be any prouder of his mother small sample. Theoretically, only 1 one- than I am because of the tenacity with which hundredth of a drop of blood is required in a she has approached this very sensitive and stain. The process than makes millions of very thought-provoking subject. I ask that each copies of the variable region of the DNA member of this Assembly, as affected as I am selected. It can provide a result within hours. by such tragedies, especially a suicide—a Furthermore, the sample itself can even be tragedy that befalls our society and affects degraded—years or even decades old—which each and every one of us here as well as our allows DNA technology to reach back into the families—to join with me on 29 March next past to help solve what were, until recently, year to express our support and to give our heinous and unsolved crimes. The human prayers for those young, and sometimes the body contains about three trillion cells and not so very young, who have lost their lives to most of these are enucleated, that is, they suicide. contain DNA. The truth is that one does not 5956 Matters of Public Interest 7 Dec 1999 know when one has left behind a DNA sample, anyone else. There have been a number of because it is not just blood that can be used: similar cases in Queensland. DNA samples can be taken from saliva—found However, it is not just in helping to solve on balaclavas worn during an armed robbery, individual cases that DNA is useful. DNA or in extortion claims from envelopes or comes into its own with repeat offenders and stamps licked by the extortionist. About 25% of the use of a DNA database. A DNA database all break and enter offenders cut themselves involves storing electronically the details of on glass and leave a DNA sample. DNA can DNA samples taken from persons convicted of be found in saliva in chewing gum or on soft criminal offences and from persons currently in drink cans. DNA has even been found on a prison who have previously committed criminal partially eaten McDonald's burger and on offences. In a New Zealand study of 32 cigarette butts. DNA is of critical use in sexual intruder rapes, 85% of the offenders had prior assault cases, with not only semen samples convictions for a specified offence, namely, being left on a victim's person or clothing but burglary at the time of their first rape. also skin from the perpetrator, collected under Consequently, with the aid of a DNA database, the fingernails of the victims, is of great value. each individual could potentially have been The PCR DNA testing system in Australia uses readily identified after the first rape where a nine different DNA loci, or parts of the DNA crime scene body sample was available. For chain, together with the sex of the individual. example, the Operation Park serial rapist According to evidence presented to the commenced offending in 1983. Had DNA as a Western Australian Legislative Council science been developed at that time and had Legislation Committee, the chances of two DNA database legislation been in place, the people having the same type of DNA profile is rapist would have been identified after his first one in 72 billion. That is 10 times more people rape, which would have spared 49 further than the number of people who have ever victims, 12 years in offending, and millions of existed. Further, the system has the capacity dollars of police resources. In crimes such as to go to more loci if there ever was a break and enters, a DNA database can suggestion that the particular match is not with increase clear-up rates. As Mr D. G. Gunn, the accused person. Chief Constable of the Cambridgeshire Police, Since 1995—over a three-year period— indicated— the United Kingdom national database has "The detection rate for dwelling provided 300,000 suspect/offender samples, house burglary has shot up from 27.2% to 32,000 crime scene samples, and an average 39% over the past 12 months. Again, I do of 300 hits per week, that is, matches that link not claim that to be solely due to the DNA suspects to the scene of a crime or the scene database, but it is playing an important of one crime to another. Of these, some 30% part and we are having more success in are cold hits, where the links were established identifying prolific burglars to different where police had no prior indication of a link. In burglary scenes." Queensland, that would equate to three to I expect that those with a misguided four cold hits per week. sense of civil liberties will seek to oppose However, I refer not just to numbers but proper DNA database legislation on the claim also a celebrated case in Queensland where of individual rights. They will say, "We have a DNA was used to put a murderer behind bars. right to silence in the face of police I am talking about the murder of the so-called questioning. Why should a person be forced to cat woman, Kathleen Marshall, by Andrew give DNA to incriminate themselves?" My Fitzherbert. Miss Marshall's murderer had left answer to that is: the right to silence was microscopic traces of blood, together with the always intended to protect individuals who victim's own blood, at her house. Fitzherbert might be overborne by police questioning and denied ever having been to Marshall's home coerced into making answers that were not and refused to give a blood sample. The correct or that wrongly incriminated them. magistrate gave police permission to issue a There is no public interest—I repeat, no public warrant to search Fitzherbert's home, from interest—in rejecting any system that allows which the police removed a toothbrush, socks guilty people to remain not prosecuted unless and a pair of trousers. The trousers had a that system carries with it the risk that the handkerchief in them containing Fitzherbert's innocent will be convicted as well. DNA testing mucus. According to the Sunday Mail, the simply does not carry that risk. DNA in that mucus matched the blood found In fact, the use of DNA has important at the crime scene, with the chance of one in benefits to the civil liberties of people who are 14,000,000,000,000,000 of its belonging to wrongly accused of committing crimes. I ask 7 Dec 1999 Matters of Public Interest 5957 members to think of the potential invasion of cases of foul play, but even where the an individual's civil liberties when the police individuals die from natural or non-suspicious turn up at his or her place of work asking—and causes, their families' fears are finally put to quite appropriately—highly personal questions rest. about the suspect in an attempt to link to or exclude him or her from a particular offence. I wish to address briefly a number of With a DNA sample, those people are either in concerns relating to civil liberties. The first or out of the frame, and that is it. There is no relates to the nature of the DNA database need to execute a search warrant on their itself and the material that will be stored on it. houses in front of their neighbours; there is no We would never want to have a situation in need to ask personal questions at their which a national DNA database used for workplaces. criminal detection purposes could be misused in some brave new world attempt at genetic Further, there have been many cases selection or social engineering. This will not be documented, particularly in the United States, possible for a number of reasons. Most of individuals being convicted of serious crimes importantly, the nature of the DNA sampling only to be freed by DNA evidence many years process involves taking only very short later. One example from 28 documented by samples from the DNA chain. The parts of the the US National Institute of Justice is the case chain used for the nine loci on the genome of Kirk Bloodsworth. In 1984, a nine year old tend to be non-coding loci that are parts of the girl was found dead after having been beaten genome that do not contain genes. That is not with a rock, sexually assaulted and strangled. only because of genetic privacy concerns but The prosecution evidence at Bloodsworth's trial also because non-coding loci are not subject was based upon a police tip-off by an to selection pressures and tend to mutate anonymous caller, a witness' identification of more rapidly. For that reason, they show a him from a police sketch compiled from greater variation between individuals and, descriptions of five witnesses, a shoe print therefore, are a better database for found near the victim's body that was made by identification. Further, the database itself a shoe that matched Bloodsworth's size, and would be structured so as to make individual him telling acquaintances that he had done identification impossible. It contains a number something "terrible" that day that would affect of separate database indexes that can be his marriage. Bloodsworth was convicted and matched against each other but are of sentenced to death. The Maryland Court of themselves separate. It contains a crime Appeal later overturned his conviction, scene index that contains all DNA samples because the police withheld information. taken from scenes of crimes. It also contains However, he was retried and again convicted the DNA identification database, which keeps and sentenced to two consecutive life terms. all of the DNA profiles taken from individuals In 1992, Bloodsworth's lawyers that have them marked only against a successfully sought to reopen the case to take particular identifying number. For privacy advantage of new PCR DNA testing. The reasons the link between that number and any report concluded that Bloodsworth's DNA did individual is to be kept on a separate not match any of the evidence received for database. The matching itself takes place on a testing. A second report confirmed this. DNA matching database that uses only codes. Bloodsworth was finally released after serving nine years of a second sentence, including two As I will indicate, there will also be a years on death row. What about his civil limited persons' index, which will be used to liberties had the death sentence been carried temporarily store DNA information from people out before he could clear his name? who are not suspects but who have volunteered to provide a DNA sample to aid in What about missing persons? With a the solving of a particularly difficult crime. The national DNA database, a missing person's Western Australian taxi drivers who voluntarily details are placed on a separate database that provided samples in relation to the nightclub can then be matched with any scene of crime murder cases is a good example of that specimens from an unidentified, usually practice. decomposed, body. That can be done by having the missing person's family produce for Finally, there will be a serious offenders inclusion on the database an item of their index that will contain the samples of those clothing or personal possessions that would persons who have been convicted of serious undoubtedly contain their DNA. A classic offences after the formation of the database example would be a toothbrush. Obviously, and also those persons who are currently in the identification of the individual—the missing custody for particular offences insofar as the person—aids in detecting the perpetrator in State resolves to do so. 5958 Matters of Public Interest 7 Dec 1999

Mr Speaker, I seek leave to have the taken from an individual whom they reasonably remainder of my speech incorporated in suspect in relation to an offence if an officer of Hansard. at least the rank of superintendent authorises it. Leave granted. Whilst taking a buccal swab could be intrusive, it could hardly be described as intimate, such as This poses another question: why should one would describe a sample taken from an those persons currently serving terms of individual's genital area. Because DNA is such a imprisonment be retrospectively subject to powerful exculpatory as well is inculpatory tool, DNA testing? Is it an invasion of their liberties? the authorising of appropriately trained police Firstly, I say that by their committing a serious officers to take such a sample is entirely offence so as to have them gaoled, they have justified. shown no regard for the civil liberties of their I mentioned above that the DNA database will victim or society. Secondly, one can look at have a separate section for those who will statistics to see that there is a significant provide voluntary specimens. Stiff criminal probability of reoffending amongst certain sanctions will apply to anyone who violates types of prisoners. A study in relation to sex privacy requirements in the data base and this offenders in West Australia for the period 1975 will apply to the volunteer database as well. to 1989, found that while approximately 50 per Specimens voluntarily given for the cent of them had never returned to prison, 41 investigation of particular crimes will only be per cent of those in prison for rape had a prior able to be used for those particular crimes rape offence and 57 per cent commit, or go on themselves and will then be destroyed. to commit other violent offences. If this did not take place, then an individual who A DNA database can never prevent the first may have committed a less serious offence crime taking place, but once a sample is taken such as break and enter many years ago might as a result of a conviction, then that person can not come forward to provide a specimen in rest assured in the future that if he or she relation to a rape or a murder for fear of commits a crime and leaves a sample behind, implicating him/herself in relation to the other then he or she will be found and prosecuted. offence. This is standard practice in the United Mr Speaker, I think it highly unlikely that even Kingdom as well. the most wide-eyed zealot will attempt to Mr Speaker, the use of DNA as an investigative oppose the DNA database itself. Where the technique for our law enforcement agencies is fight will take place is in relation to those revolutionary. Not only because of its amazing persons currently serving terms of uniqueness in relation to samples—some 1 in 72 imprisonment and also the mechanism by which billion, but also in its ability to reach back into police are empowered to take samples from the past and solve the heinous crimes of suspects. yesterday; its ability to conclusively implicate This leads me finally to the most significant the perpetrator, and at the same time clear all issue that will face government in assessing other suspects. how we will secure our DNA database in The ultimate public interest is that the guilty are Queensland. convicted, the innocent go free and the The United Kingdom has been operating its community is protected from violent crime. On DNA database since 1995. Most samples taken all counts, DNA meets that requirement. from suspects are taken by way of a buccal swab which is not unlike a cross between a tiny toothbrush and a honey twirler which is rubbed Rural Summit against the suspect's mouth. It does not hurt, Mr HOBBS (Warrego—NPA) (11.50 a.m.): does not cut or cause bleeding and is usually I have already briefed the House on the rural self administered. In other words, the police normally give the suspect the applicator and summit held in Canberra in October this year. ask him/her to stick it in their mouth themselves. Today I will summarise some of the points The applicator itself comes in a tamper-proof raised at the summit. I advise the House of bag and is bar coded and placed in a sealed further issues relevant to the outcomes of the bar-coded container for the purpose of summit. I believe the summit was a turning evidence integrity. As an additional safeguard, point in Australia's history, particularly for rural in Queensland we could use our extensive and regional Australia. The people who police video taping procedures to ensure that attended had a very, very positive outlook. The the collection of the buccal swab is undertaken summit was a case not of considering the appropriately. problems but of considering ways to solve The current sticking point is that a swab from an those problems and look to the future. individual's mouth is classed as an "intimate" sample under the Police Powers of From a financial perspective, Australia is Responsibilities Act. The police have no right going okay. But there is a sector missing out, to require an individual to provide such a and that is the regional sector. At the summit it sample without a court order. In Britain , on the was recognised by the Prime Minister and by other hand, police can require a sample to be everyone else concerned that a mechanism 7 Dec 1999 Matters of Public Interest 5959 must be put in place to share the support of education, as a right of all Australians in the nation. Any country is only as strong as its regional areas. A national coordination weakest link. If we want Australia to go ahead strategy for infrastructure recognising special in a strong and forceful way, we need to give solutions for special problems is essential. The everyone on the land a reasonable go. We are Federal Government can lead the process not asking for handouts; we just want a fair, through a proactive approach by facilitating even go. infrastructure provisions and funding. Delivery Red tape and restrictions that stop rural of projects is the responsibility of all levels of enterprises from developing should be Government and the private sector. A good reduced. In the past, that was one of the example is water infrastructure development. biggest problems facing rural enterprises. We That can be done. Members of the previous are hoping to resolve some of the issues that I Government put together the Water will deal with soon. The one-policy-fits-all Infrastructure Task Force. We put together an approach of Governments creates problems. implementation plan. That is a very, very They tend not to be equipped to get their simple process. All the Government has to do minds around the fact that needs are different is follow the steps. This Government has a in regional areas. Housing needs are different problem with providing water infrastructure. in the Torres Strait from those in Stanthorpe. The argument is that that difficulty is based on Education needs are different in Hebel from environmental grounds. The reality is that most those in Hervey Bay. Queensland is a of those environmental issues were resolved. If particularly diverse State and Australia as a they have not been resolved, they certainly whole is even more diverse. Governments and should have been resolved. There is no bureaucracies need to understand that the reason why we cannot progress in that needs of different communities may vary. respect. Those initiatives would benefit the Simpler guidelines are needed in some more remote parts of Australia. particular instances to allow businesses, The summit urged recognition of the fact education and other Government services to that optimal health status for all regional be delivered in those regions. Australians requires the recognition of the I turn now to the major priorities identified specific health needs of rural and remote by each theme group. The delegates believed residents. That can be achieved only through that a great need exists to improve the empowering communities and developing communication structure within Australia. The partnerships that change the dominant summit urged delivery of communication metropolitan-focused mind-set, overcoming services that meet anticipated economic, barriers to access and ensuring equitable social and cultural needs to allow businesses resource allocation. Health is also a very to compete in the use of electronic commerce important part of the package. and the Internet in order to allow people to live As to community wellbeing and interesting and fulfilling lives where they lifestyle—the summit urged the development choose to live. Local call access to the nearest of community capacity and leadership, service centre should be ensured. The including our young people. That resource coverage, affordability and functionality of exists. Unfortunately, for many years we have mobile communication should be improved to been exporting our greatest resource: our kids. ensure that regional Australia is not left behind They have been moving to the coast and in the telecommunication revolution. For most overseas. They have been taking jobs that are Australians, a mobile phone service is a closer to the metropolitan regions. We need normal thing. In many areas—as one finds resources to attract them back or provide when travelling on regional roads—mobile opportunities so that they do not need to leave coverage just does not exist. Currently, that is in the first place. being addressed, particularly by funds from the sale of the second tranche of Telstra shares. In relation to finance and facilitating We are on track to improve the coverage, but entrepreneurship, the summit called for action that will not solve all the problems that we to achieve a more efficient and effective have. We often hear it said that 80% or 90% market for capital in regional Australia. It urged of the population will have this or that, but the the removal of regulatory impediments to reality is that many of the people who do not entrepreneurship. It called for the development have adequate coverage are spread over a of a new, modern regional business culture very large portion of Australia's land mass. and paradigm to be stimulated by rural and As to infrastructure—the summit urged regional business foundations. delivery of a basic level of access to services, As to value adding to regional particularly energy, water, health and communities and farming industries—the 5960 Matters of Public Interest 7 Dec 1999 summit urged recognition of the need for As to community and industry Government to create a supportive business leadership—the summit clearly identified that climate ensuring provision, maintenance and effective leadership in all sectors at all levels is enhancement of infrastructure and cost- a key to building the future. The summit called effective delivery of accessible services. on the Federal Government to commit to Governments and businesses should form leadership development in regional Australia partnerships to meet the enormous through the provision of sufficient funds to opportunities available for value adding to empower communities and industries to shape industries and local governments. As recently their own futures as vibrant and productive as this morning and yesterday, we heard communities and industries. The objective is to about rural industries trying to go about their engage all levels of government, industry and maintenance. They were being attacked for the community in partnership to build doing that by the Premier in his statement leadership from the inside out throughout about the smoke he saw from an aeroplane. regional Australia. That is unbelievable. That statement will go Education and training are also very down in history as a particularly unfortunate important. The summit urged all levels of statement. He will wish he never said it. Those government, industry and communities to fires are a normal part of maintenance that develop strategies that ensure equality of occurs all the time. access to quality education and training in Mr Reeves: How do you know every one regional Australia. Regional Australians must was? develop a culture of life-long learning to enable them to adapt to and maximise the benefits Mr HOBBS: They have been there since from change. Education providers, Captain Cook sailed up the east coast. Fires Government, businesses and community are more regulated and managed now. members must collaborate to deliver significant People are trying to go about their normal improvements in learning and education business. opportunities that should be determined by the Mr McGrady: Were there any fires before communities themselves. Cook arrived? As to philanthropy and partnerships—the Mr HOBBS: Absolutely. We presume so. summit urged a greater understanding of and Australia has been burning for centuries. That renewed respect between regional and urban is the way it is. It will continue for many years Australia. There is opportunity for philanthropy to come. to take a strategic role. Time expired. Mr Gibbs: They reckon you are a bit of a hot flame. Population Policy; Immigration Mr HOBBS: You never know. Mr NUTTALL (Sandgate—ALP) (12 p.m.): Vegetation management is one of the Today I would like to inform honourable significant issues about which people always members of the critical need to develop a seem to be under attack in this place. It is not national population policy. Recently, the necessary. Most farmers are very conscious of Commonwealth Government tabled a the environment. They do not wish to do response to a report prepared by a House of anything that would go against them in the Representatives Standing Committee. The future. report, titled Australia's Population "Carrying In relation to new industries and new Capacity": One Nation—Two Ecologies, made opportunities, the summit urged that a series of recommendations to the Governments, the corporate sector and Government regarding a population policy. communities develop partnerships to create an The Commonwealth Government has rejected environment that encourages and supports most of the report's recommendations and new industries and supports opportunities for clearly intends to continue along its current regional Australia through eliminating path of ad hoc population policy. unnecessary bureaucratic processes and As a result of the current administrative encouraging the spirit of community interest. arrangements, the nation's population policy The Government's role should be that of a amounts to little more than a reactionary policy catalyst to ensure that that happens. One without vision, driven by immigration targets good example of that sort of measure is the set on an annual basis. The range of other Water Development Incentive Scheme. It factors that should be considered in the seems that that has been thrown on the scrap context of developing a population policy, such heap. as environmental management practices, 7 Dec 1999 Matters of Public Interest 5961 fertility and mortality rates, the state of the employers to adopt family-friendly policies. economy, regional development and Such measures will become increasingly technological changes, is not considered by important if we are to maintain a young the Commonwealth Government in the context dynamic nation with a sizeable labour force of population issues. The complex nature of able to support older Australians. population policy is noted explicitly in the In the context of a population policy, I Queensland Position Statement on wish to alert honourable members to the Immigration endorsed by the Government on immense benefits that immigration has had, 25 October this year. The statement notes— and continues to have, for Queensland. Firstly, "Overseas migration is just one of the immigration has been one component of components of population growth. It is population growth in Queensland, along with important that national population policy is interstate migration and fertility rates. recognised as a separate policy issue Population growth expands the domestic from immigration, although the two issues market for locally produced goods and are related. In addition to immigration, services, both in the short and long term. In population policy must incorporate issues turn, this increases employment, income and such as the environment, demography, economic growth. As a result of the rapid regional development, infrastructure and population growth that occurred in Queensland economic conditions." over the past decade, private consumption With a clear national population policy we expenditure accounted for almost 70% of could develop long-range planning in areas Queensland's economic growth over this such as infrastructure, service delivery, regional period, which was substantially more than its development, immigration and social support 61% share of gross State product. However, mechanisms. With long-range immigration one of the key drivers of population growth in targets we would have some degree of Queensland this decade was large-scale certainty for investors, business, major projects interstate migration. This is now declining. In and planners alike, which would offer clear fact, in 1998-99 the net overseas migration economic benefit for Queensland. intake exceeded the net interstate migration intake for the first time this century. The Federal Leader of the Opposition, the Furthermore, Queensland may well lose some Honourable Kim Beazley, MP, has announced of its New Zealand-born population due to calls that a Federal Labor Government would for New Zealand expatriates to return home, establish an office of population to advise on combined with the introduction of the two-year Australia's optimal population target and the waiting period for social security benefits now necessary support policies to achieve it. That imposed on New Zealand entrants. If these would include a broad focus on both trends continue, overseas migration will play immigration and family-friendly policies an increasingly important role in maintaining designed to boost our national birthrate. This Queensland's population growth and its marks an important departure from the current attendant economic benefits. narrow approach to population policy in this country, which is determined by default Recent research undertaken by ACIL through immigration intakes. Consulting found that the current size and mix of migration and humanitarian programs has a There are many compelling reasons why net positive impact on the Commonwealth we should develop a clear population policy, Budget from the first year of arrival, and this not the least of which is the greying of rises from then on. This is due in large part to Australia, that is, the ageing of the population. the current emphasis on skilled and business The ageing of the population is generally migration. Currently, Queensland attracts a regarded as an inevitable consequence of reasonable share of the national skilled and social change, improved quality of life and business intake. One example of the medical advances. However, Governments do innovative entrepreneurial spirit of Queensland have some capacity to retard the ageing of the migrants is the success story of Asian Foods population through the implementation of Pty Ltd, an Asian foods company based in family support mechanisms that make it easier Cairns. In 1998 Ms Sim Hayward, originally for people to balance work and family from Malaysia and of Chinese descent, saw responsibilities and through strategic the potential for a niche market opportunity in management of the immigration program. Asian food. Since then Asian Foods has grown Such mechanisms might include tax relief for to include two Cairns retail outlets and working families, improved child-care services, wholesale and manufacturing divisions social security support, improved equal employing 16 staff. The company's products employment opportunities and encouraging include import replacement pastes and sauces 5962 Matters of Public Interest 7 Dec 1999 and use local fruit produced on the tablelands social cohesion and builds communities. The to replace imported Asian fruit products. This is position statement also recognises the just one example of the regional business importance of our humanitarian program, opportunities that can result from immigration, which flows from Australia's membership of the not to mention the local employment world community. A balanced immigration opportunities which result from such program planned strategically over a number enterprises. of years can offer enormous social and However, the Commonwealth's current economic benefits to Queensland. approach to skilled immigration policy places a Furthermore, long-range planning of high premium on the selection process, immigration would complement a formal including a long set of rigid criteria. This is what national population policy, which is vital to my Federal colleague Mr Con Sciacca, MP, ensuring sound planning and the optimal use calls the bureaucratic process of people of this country's resources. choosing. Conversely, there is less emphasis on what is on the ground to assist in Rural Queensland productive settlement. The Federal Opposition has declared its commitment to attracting Mr SEENEY (Callide—NPA) (12.10 p.m.): skilled migrants to regional areas by focusing I rise today to participate in this Matters of on the provision of long-term incentives to Public Interest debate, to stand up for the migrants, local infrastructure projects, financial people of rural Queensland and the primary and fiscal incentives for new activities and producers across the State, and to say simply ethnic-friendly services. This is in stark contrast on their behalf that enough is enough. On to the current Commonwealth policies, which behalf of those people, I want to say that we are based on high selection standards without are proud of the contribution we make to this commensurate support services and incentives State's economy; we are proud of the at the final destination of entrants. My Federal contribution we make to the unique colleagues are also advocating long-range Queensland culture; we are proud of the planning of immigration intakes, suggesting professionalism and the ingenuity of the that targets should be set over at least a five- operators who constitute our primary industries year period. This is in accord with the and it is about time they were given the Queensland Position Statement on recognition and the credit they deserve. Immigration, which advocates long-range It is high time that the know-it-all urban planning and consistency in the migration media and the know-it-all ideologists in the program. Labor Government cast aside the old I wish to conclude by informing stereotypes and took a fresh look at primary honourable members of the key principles industries and the people who are involved in underpinning Queensland's position on them and took a fresh look at the way the immigration, as outlined in the position urban media seek to portray farmers generally. statement. It states— It is about time that the whole business of farming and the professionals who are "Queensland is committed to an engaged in it as a career were awarded a immigration policy which is non- much higher level of esteem in the general discriminatory with respect to race, community and a much higher priority in the religion, country of origin or gender. business of this State Parliament. Queensland supports a migration Of late it seems that everyone is an program which remains flexible and able expert on the core issues that affect our to respond to changing circumstances primary industries; everyone is an expert on and needs. resource management; everyone is an expert A policy which balances skilled, on industry deregulation; and everyone is an regional, family and humanitarian expert on industry development. This week immigration will ensure that Australia's everyone is an expert on resource social and economic welfare is accorded a management—everyone, that is, except the high priority, while also showing sufficient people who have invested their futures in regard to Australia's humanitarian primary industry and everyone except the obligations." people who have been managing those The position statement explicitly resources for generations. recognises the economic benefits of It seems that everyone is claiming temporary, skilled, business and talented expertise from a safe distance. Everyone is migration, and also recognises the social claiming expertise from the safety of a benefits of family migration, which ensures comfortable urban existence. And to top it all 7 Dec 1999 Matters of Public Interest 5963 off, yesterday the Premier claimed expertise attacked the worth of freehold title; he has from 40,000 feet in the air in the comfort of the attacked the worth of irrigation entitlements; he Government jet. It is easy to be an expert and has threatened land values across the State; to develop fine sounding ideologies from the and he has thrown the land development comfort of urban isolation and the comfort of programs of almost every land-holder in the Government jet. The Government's cute Queensland into disarray. Unfortunately, in ideologies and oversimplistic solutions will not some cases, he has thrown those land and do not last long in the harsh economic development programs into panic mode. Now and climatic reality of the real word of rural Premier Beattie, in an attempt to deflect Queensland—that is, if Government members pressure from the extreme greens, has joined ever leave the bitumen road and the the attack. From 40,000 feet and at 400 miles airconditioned office and put their feet on the per hour he is suddenly an expert on resource ground. management. How breathtakingly untrue it is Many members of this Beattie Labor to claim that this Government has any sort of a Government display their arrogance and their working relationship with rural industry or ignorance every time there is a debate in this understands even remotely the issues in rural House about primary industries or resource Queensland. management issues. From the Premier There has never ever been a Queensland through to the backbench, no member of the Government of any political persuasion that current Government has demonstrated even a has been more out of touch than this Labor basic understanding of the complexities of Government is with the issues of rural primary industries or the very real issues that Queensland in general and resource we, who engage in primary industries, face. In management in particular. That was clearly the two portfolios most important to rural illustrated by the response of key Ministers in Queensland, the Minister for Natural question time this morning, notably the Resources and the Minister for Primary Minister for Primary Industries, who did not Industries have demonstrated a woeful lack of have a clue about the issues posed to him in capacity to even understand the issues that the question he was asked. In this are involved, let alone respond in ways to Government's blind pursuit of an ideological produce positive outcomes for the industries agenda, it has taken away any certainty or that rely on them or for the State as a whole. hope for the future of so many rural No member of the Labor Government has communities. taken the time or the trouble to genuinely try to Not only has it destroyed the hope that understand the real issues that confront the irrigation industry had for a major primary industries and rural Queenslanders infrastructure development program, not only generally. Instead, the Beattie Labor has it attacked the worth and basis of Government has adopted a systematic traditional land titles but it has also attacked approach of demonising and vilifying farmers the people of rural Queensland themselves. and land-holders generally in relation to a Nothing illustrates that better than the claim by range of issues which a succession of Labor the Minister for Natural Resources that we Ministers clearly know nothing about. Indeed, were breeding dingoes to falsely claim a $10 the Government's whole approach to rural bounty. Nothing illustrates that better than the Queensland has been to try to justify its claim by the Treasurer that our wives would ideologically driven approach by demonising suddenly take to driving the cattle truck to town and vilifying Queensland's rural land-holders in to rort the diesel fuel rebate. Nothing illustrates a totally unforgivable manner. It is difficult and, better the extent to which this Government I would suggest, dangerous for any completely fails to understand rural Government to underestimate the growing Queensland and the people who live and work level of frustration and anger at the there and who generate the State's wealth continuation of this preposterous approach. than the recent tree clearing debacle. Rural Queensland has had enough of the In recent months we have seen one of political doublespeak and the cynical the most cynical propaganda campaigns ever manipulation of a compliant urban media by mounted in Queensland politics—a this Labor Government. propaganda campaign that obviously has set This Government's handling of its out to demonise the people of rural responsibilities with respect to the Queensland as environmental vandals—as management of Queensland water resources irresponsible resource managers. I believe that has been terrible. Its handling of the that propaganda campaign that attempts to vegetation management issues has been demonise the people of rural Queensland has worse than abysmal. Minister Welford has been driven directly from the office of the 5964 Matters of Public Interest 7 Dec 1999

Minister for Natural Resources and has been They have consistently refused and still ably assisted by his ideologically like-minded refuse to give recognition for the incredible cohorts in the Queensland Conservation effort that has gone into organisations such as Council and, of course, yesterday the high- Landcare and Integrated Catchment flying Premier in the Government jet. That Management and for their emerging success propaganda campaign has been the stories. How many times have we heard about forerunner of the introduction of a series of those success stories in this Parliament? How pieces of legislation which will change forever many times have we heard those people the resource use and the traditional primary praised by the Minister for Primary Industries or production resource base of rural Queensland. the Minister for Natural Resources? Those This Government has blatantly ignored opposite should show us the record. How any attempt at objectivity in every issue it has many times do we hear a positive dealt with in the past 15 months. The Minister contribution? Instead, we hear negative for Natural Resources has blatantly ignored contributions all the time. We hear attacks on any attempt at objectivity on any issue within those people all the time in an attempt to his department. Instead, he and the justify a preconceived agenda. Government generally have driven this Rural land-holders have been subject to propaganda campaign. They have this continual flow of ideological rubbish that encouraged a media blitz against farmers to has no practical focus, serves only to cause try to justify their own preconceived ideological alarm in rural Queensland and, tragically, in positions on a range of resource management many cases brings about a result opposite to issues. It has been difficult to find any what all responsible stakeholders have been evidence at all of any understanding of the trying to achieve. Too often we end up with a economics of land development or the result opposite to what responsible rural economics of primary production in any of the leaders have been working successfully contributions to this House from the Minister or towards for many years. We end up with the from any member on the Government side of opposite result because of the ham-fisted, bull the House. There has been no evidence of in a china shop approach of people who do any understanding by the Minister of the not have a clue what they are talking about. economics of resource management— Time expired. Mr Palaszczuk: You are so out of touch. Mr SEENEY:—particularly the Minister for Australian Broadcasting Corporation Primary Industries, who likes to interject. This morning he demonstrated that he has Ms BOYLE (Cairns—ALP) (12.20 p.m.): I absolutely no understanding of the issues that speak today not only as the member for Cairns are involved in his portfolio. He likes to act the but also as a friend of the ABC. The Australian clown around rural Queensland, but in the end Broadcasting Corporation is an institution of he knows nothing about the job that he has great historical, cultural and social importance. been given; he knows nothing about the Australians know that and they value their ABC issues that he is involved in; and he knows and its contribution. nothing about the effect that his incompetence Even those who do not routinely listen to is having on rural Queensland. or watch the ABC recognise the essential Huge advances have been made in contribution made to broadcasting by the ABC. recent years towards recognising and For example, polls conducted by Newspoll and achieving the goals of sustainability in rural AGB McNair reveal 85% support. In a 1996 Queensland. Huge advances have been Taverner survey for the Sydney Sun-Herald, made by the very people whom this the ABC was rated as the top institution, with Government set out to demonise. Tragically, it 85% of respondents believing the ABC to be a seems that this Government cannot or will not positive influence in Australia today. acknowledge the depth of practical land Submissions were given to the Howard management experience both within the Government's Mansfield review in 1996 from general Queensland rural community and commercial radio and television stations. They within the Department of Natural Resources. It reiterated the importance of and balance refuses to recognise the skills and the provided by the ABC and its importance as an experience of Queensland farmers generally. It Australian institution. refuses to recognise the skills and experience What has happened to the ABC since the that have been built up over generations. It election of the Liberal/National coalition refuses to recognise those skills and Government in 1996 is a sad and sorry story of experience because it does not understand broken promises and, through budget cuts, even what skills are involved. serious erosion of the ABC's capacity to 7 Dec 1999 Matters of Public Interest 5965 deliver. Honourable members of this House The meaning of these cuts in regional may need reminding of the Howard/Alston areas is indeed very serious. It may well be team's broadcasting policy as they went to the that in metropolitan areas of Australia—in the election in 1996. In its policy prior to the south-east corner of Queensland—the ABC's election, the coalition maintained that it would contribution is not as important as it is in continue existing levels of Commonwealth regional areas, and even more so in remote funding to the ABC. It states— areas such as the Cape York Peninsula. For "The Coalition is strongly supportive many in the remote areas of Australia the of Radio Australia's existing services and ABC's radio network is the only coverage they will ensure that they are not prejudiced or get, and even that is not complete. They rely downgraded in any way." on ABC Radio for all news. For many areas in northern Australia, ABC television is still the Senator Alston, the then shadow Minister only option. The importance to those people of for communications, was asked if the Radio National programs particularly, as well as commitment to maintain funding in real terms local news broadcasts—even if "local" really stood if the budget's bottom line turned out to means regional news broadcasts—in order to be worse than claimed by the Labor stay in touch is a matter of life itself. Cutting Government. He replied— these services is indeed disgusting politics. "Absolutely. John Howard's made it The cuts have also unfortunately affected very plain that we want to honour all our another of the ABC's important services, that commitments, and the ABC is a very is, the Triple J radio network. Those who have important part of that." listened to Triple J will know that it is a station that proudly promotes Australian music—and What a charade that turned out to be. not just Australian music and Australian What empty reassurance indeed. What musicians who are already recognised and are actually happened was that the coalition afforded frequent opportunities by airing on Government cut the ABC's annual budget by other commercial radio stations and other $66m straight away. That is 12% of its television outlets. In fact, Triple J has done a budget—2% in 1996-97 and a further 10% in very important service to young, new 1997-98. This cut was much bigger than that musicians in Australia by playing their first sustained by any other area of Government. offerings. Not always are these the most The budget cuts resulted in a staff cut of 25%. sophisticated or likely to be top of the hit People of considerable skill who had taken parade, but it has provided an opportunity for pride in their contribution right around Australia music in Australia to be heard. and to Australia's image overseas were now unemployed. More important than its contribution to the development of contemporary Australian The cuts resulted in reduced coverage of music, however, Triple J as a network has Radio Australia—Australia's voice to the Asia- united our young people. It has given young Pacific. I am told that it can now barely be people across Australia the feeling of heard on short-wave transmissions in most of belonging, of being in touch with other young Asia. What a short-sighted, silly reduction in people—from Broome to Cairns to Thursday light of the events that have occurred in Asia Island to Melbourne and into country areas of and the importance of us having an Tasmania. The budget cutbacks to the ABC opportunity to broadcast the Australian point of have stopped the roll-out of the Triple J view on world news—on events within Asia as network into country areas. The cuts have well as within Australia. meant that there is less live concert recording Importantly, too, program cuts have been and less of the wonderful Unearthed program. necessary—in documentaries, in arts and Triple J went out to regional areas and held entertainment, in news, in current affairs and in competitions and concerts for new musicians sport. Very important cuts also have been and "unearthed" talent right around Australia. made to the ABC's capacity to produce Unfortunately, Triple J has also had to axe its Australian quality programs of cultural value Internet site. This in itself was important as a and intellectual integrity. Additionally, we see means of communication for young ABC television forced to repeat programs over Australians. This was most evidenced by the and over to fill the time. In fact, analysis in Reach Out program and its attempt to help March 1999 revealed that first-run Australian young people to reach out towards each other content on ABC television has declined to a rather than to take that dreadful choice in meagre 7% when sport, parliamentary times of desperation of youth suicide. broadcasts, late night music video clips and We have seen favourite programs gone news and current affairs are excluded. from Radio National, programs such as 5966 Superannuation Legislation Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

Saturday National and the Week in Film. We Mr Hamill: Wildly acclaimed. have seen outside broadcasts in regional radio Dr WATSON: Wildly acclaimed? I am sure diminish. We have seen local news in regional that the Treasurer is speaking on behalf of all areas diminish and a reliance on more capital members in that case. Obviously, the changes city programs. This is, of course, to our that were instigated by the Commonwealth country's detriment. In television, yes, this have an impact upon all States. In particular, means fewer Australian documentaries, and they have an impact upon members of that is important; reduced budgets for news, Parliament, on Governors and, of course, on Lateline, Four Corners, Landline, Australian judges in each of the States. Those Story; and cutbacks in Compass and the differences across the States are reflected in Quantum series. We should be proud of the slightly different pieces of legislation in each quality of our news broadcasts and our State. For example, in Queensland—and it is independent news and current affairs shows. reflected in this Bill—both Governors and To cut these back is to cut back the very judges are constitutionally protected with independent communication lifeblood of respect to salaries. This particular Bill makes Australia. And although the ABC was perhaps the surcharge of the Commonwealth a not providing shows with high ratings, it was personal taxation liability for them. providing important coverage of religious ceremonies around Australia. But they, too, For members of Parliament, of course, have had to be cut. the taxation liability is imposed upon the superannuation fund. That is not true in other So what for the future of the ABC with this States. For example, in South Australia and present Federal Government? Further cuts are Western Australia, members of Parliament are threatened next year, and that is my primary also constitutionally protected. But the way reason for drawing honourable members' around that is to make it a personal liability for attention to the Friends of the ABC and their them, too. campaign to get the message to the Howard I appreciated the Treasurer's interaction Government and Minister Alston that the cuts with myself and the member for Caloundra have gone too far, and their campaign to when looking at this in detail. I also thank ensure that the three new board members Michael Pennisi, who I think is in the lobby. who were appointed only several months ago The explanations were thorough and detailed. should be there on merit, not because they will be political cronies and will do as the Prime Mr Hamill: Illuminating. Minister wishes. Dr WATSON: Illuminating. Perhaps it did Budgets will be set for the ABC early next not assuage everybody's concerns, but it was year. I encourage all members, especially done in an appropriate manner and, most those from rural and regional areas of importantly, it enabled me to understand Queensland, to join the Friends of the ABC, so exactly the impact of the changes and I was ably led by Elisabeth McClement in able to convey that to my colleagues on this Queensland, to speak out for the importance side of the House. and for the standards of our national ABC Ever since superannuation became a broadcasting. major savings area, it has been a bit of a political football at the Commonwealth level. I think that is true whether we have a Labor SUPERANNUATION LEGISLATION Government or a coalition Government in AMENDMENT BILL Canberra. We are seeing constant changes to Second Reading superannuation legislation, and this makes it difficult for people to plan their retirement and Resumed from 10 November (see their savings. This latest change is simply p. 4823). another example of that. And certainly, for Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the people in business, who need to make Liberal Party) (12.31 p.m.): I rise to make a decisions about their investments and how very short contribution to the debate on this they are going to control their business life, Bill. Obviously, the Opposition will be constant changes—whether they be in relation supporting the Bill as it goes through the to taxation or superannuation—do not Parliament. The Bill, of course, comes about encourage certainty, nor do they encourage because the Commonwealth Government businesses to invest appropriately. made changes to superannuation legislation in The lesson that we could all take on its 20 August 1996 Budget. Those changes, of board, and particularly the Commonwealth course, have an impact upon a variety of Government—of whatever political people. persuasion—is that if it keeps making changes 7 Dec 1999 New Tax System Price Exploitation Code (Queensland) Bill 5967 to areas that are particularly important to SUPERANNUATION (STATE PUBLIC saving, businesses and other people will have SECTOR) AMENDMENT BILL (No. 2) a great deal of difficulty in planning for the Second Reading future, and that will discourage investment for the future. And if investment is discouraged for Resumed from 23 November (see p. the future, that will impact on all of us, in terms 5145) of having money available for retirement, and Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the it will impact upon the willingness of people to Liberal Party) (12.40 p.m.): I rise to participate make long-term investments, which will then in the debate on the Superannuation (State have implications for the level of economic Public Sector) Amendment Bill. I must say it is activity and jobs in our country. amazing how quickly we can agree to impose I am not going to pursue that issue, taxes on ourselves. because it is not particularly relevant to the The objective of this Bill is fairly legislation before the House, but I think it is straightforward. It allows employees of the worth making that point. With those few words, South East Queensland Water Board to retain I support the Bill. their membership in the State Public Sector Superannuation Scheme when they transfer to Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) the Queensland Water Corporation Limited. (Treasurer) (12.36 p.m.): I thank the Leader of This legislation follows a Bill which was earlier the Liberal Party for the Opposition's support presented to the House, namely the South for the legislation. As was indicated, this East Queensland Water Board (Reform legislation has been made necessary by Facilitation) Bill 1999, which was passed by this decisions which the Commonwealth has taken House on 17 September 1999. That Bill was with respect to the taxation treatment of the subject of some debate and received superannuation. bipartisan support. I must say that I echo the sentiment of The coalition gave bipartisan support for the Leader of the Liberal Party in relation to the creation of this new public entity, the the continuation of a line of policy at the Queensland Water Corporation Limited. The national level which has undermined the value coalition supports this Bill. of superannuation as a form of national saving. I believe that there were significant Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) reforms to national savings that were built (Treasurer) (12.42 p.m.), in reply: I thank the around superannuation in the last 10 years or Opposition for its support of this measure. This so. Certainly, the extension of superannuation Bill preserves the right of employees of the across the work force was very important, South East Queensland Water Board to particularly in the context of an ageing remain members of Q Super, if they so desire. population. I do not believe that the direction That element of choice is important. of Commonwealth policy over a number of Motion agreed to. years now, which has whittled away at the value of that superannuation, has done our nation a service at all. Committee Clauses 1 to 3, as read, agreed to. Nevertheless, this Parliament is meeting its obligations to the nation in terms of Bill reported, without amendment. complying with the requirements of the Commonwealth in relation to the parliamentary Third Reading and non-parliamentary schemes and also those constitutionally protected schemes. As I Bill, on motion of Mr Hamill, by leave, read said, I thank the Opposition for its support. a third time. Motion agreed to. NEW TAX SYSTEM PRICE EXPLOITATION CODE (QUEENSLAND) BILL Committee Second Reading Clauses 1 to 14, as read, agreed to. Resumed from 23 November (see Bill reported, without amendment. p. 5146) Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the Liberal Party) (12.44 p.m.): I rise to support the Third Reading New Tax System Price Exploitation Code Bill, on motion of Mr Hamill, by leave, read (Queensland) Bill. This Bill is obviously a third time. designed to support the Commonwealth 5968 New Tax System Price Exploitation Code (Queensland) Bill 7 Dec 1999

Government's introduction of the goods and Consumers were certainly paying lower services tax. It is quite obvious that the new prices— taxation scheme, which is being introduced in Mr Purcell: Find out where they are now. Australia from 1 July 2000, imposes a tax on a They will go straight up. range of goods and services. Dr WATSON: All I can say to the member A critical part of the introduction of a new is that there were a lot of advertisements taxation system is the elimination of a whole concerning that particular issue. The drop in series of other taxes, including the wholesale the wholesale sales tax was apparent in the sales tax, which is a major component of the price of television receivers. Honourable production of goods processed in Australia. As members will recall that demand for such the transition period continues, a range of goods spiked. There was a lay-off for a couple State taxes will be affected. of weeks because people knew that prices Theoretically, in a competitive market, a were going to be reduced. I cannot answer for reduction in taxes which impact on the the ACCC as to what it is doing now, but I production process—namely the wholesale know that it was monitoring— sales tax and a number of State Mr Purcell: How about interest for the taxes—should result in lower costs of Howard Government? production and thus lower prices for Dr WATSON: The member would have to consumers. The problem is that in any go to the Commonwealth Parliament to economy there are always some impediments receive an answer to that question. I am only to a smooth change in the pricing system. responsible for what goes on in this House. Under those circumstances, it is possible—because of such things as time The idea is for the Trade Practices Act to delays—that there could be potential in the have new powers to ensure that price short term for price exploitation. exploitation does not take place. As is well known to people in this House, under our All members of this Parliament and the Constitution, the Trade Practices Act can Commonwealth Parliament are interested in operate only at the Commonwealth level with seeing the introduction of a system of taxation respect to corporations and, for non- which makes Australia more productive and incorporated entities and persons, it needs to gives us a more competitive environment. This be applied at the State level. Essentially, this will aid us in competing in a rapidly changing Bill gives the ACCC the right to apply those world. I am sure that no parliamentarian wants powers that it has at the Commonwealth level to see businesses indulging in opportunistic to the State level. This is to ensure that no-one behaviour and overcharging consumers. This is disadvantaged in the same way as legislation will help to ensure that that does not corporations are not disadvantaged at the occur. Commonwealth level. This Bill also ensures This Bill gives the Australian Consumer that consumers know that anybody with whom and Competition Commission the power to they are dealing, whether they be an guard against price exploitation. The incorporated body, an unincorporated body or commission will do this through the application a person, is subject to the same regulatory of the Trade Practices Act. regime and that they have confidence in that. Mr Purcell: Have they started yet? This Bill is an essential part of a series of Bills that will be introduced to change Dr WATSON: What? Australia's taxation system. I think that Mr Purcell: Checking prices yet? everybody in this place should support it, because it is an attempt to ensure that there is Dr WATSON: The member would have to no price exploitation during the transition refer that to the Chairman of the ACCC, but I period to a new taxation system. believe that he appeared on television a while ago and suggested that the mechanism had Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM (Gladstone—IND) already been set up. I have had discussions (12.50 p.m.): This Bill is to address looming with a number of people involved with the problems in relation to the implementation of a ACCC in regional areas and I am told that the new taxation regime. This morning during monitoring process has already started. question time and in other discussions that have been held it has become more and more In answer to the member's question, I evident that the GST is going to be might say this: with the earlier drop in the complicated and cause a great deal of wholesale sales tax we noticed a significant difficulty. There will be more teeth in the detail reduction in the price of television receivers. than was at first anticipated. Because of the The process was well advertised by the ACCC. complexity and confusion surrounding the 7 Dec 1999 New Tax System Price Exploitation Code (Queensland) Bill 5969 implementation of the GST, during the the GST is not another way for some—and not transition stage people who want to act all—unscrupulous commercial operators to unscrupulously will have an increased take advantage of consumers. opportunity to do so. When the GST was There are a number of reasons why price introduced, it was billed as a simple tax—a fair exploitation will be easy. One is the complexity and equitable revenue raiser. It is my of the GST. The GST was going to be a simple perception—and, I think, the reality—that that tax. However, time has shown that the GST is is proving to be far from the truth. not going to be a simple tax; it is going to be The objectives of the Bill state that the quite complex. Therefore, those people who ACCC is going to be empowered to monitor want to act unscrupulously will be able to hide prices in order to prevent the possibility of their actions within the complexity of the GST. I consumer exploitation. From the comments think the confusion surrounding the that I have received to date from members of implementation of the GST is one of the main the community, I have to say that many reasons why people who want to act illegally people in the community believe that that is will be able to get away with it. I would like to happening already. The previous speaker's cite an example of that. Page 13 of The contribution and the interjections of the New Tax System—Here's what you need to member for Bulimba during that contribution know—I have not been able to find a printing indicate that that is already the case. date for this publication, but it was a little while I do not think that consumers are silly. ago—states— When it comes to shopping, they are very "How will the changes affect astute. Those of us who shop on a weekly charitable activities and religious services? basis see the fluctuation in prices. I will cite an The non-commercial activities of example of how easily a GST hike could be charitable institutions, charitable funds or camouflaged. Although the increase in the CPI gift deductible entities will be GST-free. is running at less than 2%, shoppers find that items that they bought a week ago have Charities will have access to the increased significantly—far more than any Government's $500 million GST start-up increase in the CPI. So it is going to be very funding. difficult, if not impossible, to convince These organisations can register for consumers that the price hikes have not GST so they can claim back any GST occurred already in relation to certain items. If they pay. the ACCC is not monitoring those price hikes Religious services, such as marriage already, it needs to do so straight away. ceremonies conducted by a religious I refer to the announcement in the practitioner, will be GST-free." Budget of increased taxes on tobacco. I think Rightly or wrongly, most people have that all of us received complaints from interpreted that to mean that institutions such consumers that the day after the increase was as schools with P & C fundraising would also announced the price of tobacco in the stores be GST free. After all, they are raising funds to had increased. The shopkeepers would have benefit their own children—the students at the bought that tobacco before the tax hike was school—to enhance their educational announced, yet they applied that increase to opportunities. the stock that they were holding. The same It has now come to light that schools with thing happens with fuel prices. The world price over $100,000 in turnover—not in profit, but in of crude oil might increase on one day, and turnover—will be subject to the GST. A lot of then the next day the petrol bowser reflects the country schools would not turn over that increase in price. However, the garage $100,000. However, a large school with 1,200 owner would have bought that petrol prior to or 1,400 students which as part of its that announcement of an increase in the world fundraising has a tuckshop would have a price of crude oil. turnover of over $100,000, although its profit I think that there is going to be huge could be quite modest. Suddenly, those scepticism on the part of the community that schools have to face the spectre of paying tax. the Government—and hopefully the Federal That is just one example of the confusion that Government will carry the can on this one—will is being generated with the implementation of police these abuses of the pricing system. Not the GST. As the ATO rulings are becoming only does the ACCC need to say that it is public, it is becoming more and more obvious going to police price increases; it also needs to that somebody who wants to flout the system, do something about it so that it can show somebody who wants to abuse the system consumers something tangible to prove that and take consumers for a ride financially, will 5970 New Tax System Price Exploitation Code (Queensland) Bill 7 Dec 1999 be able to get away with it unless it is ACCC, made a clear statement about the monitored stringently by those who have the severity of the penalties he would impose on power to do so. those businesses that attempt to profit from The other reason why the transition to a the changeover to the new tax system. What GST will make it easy for exploitation to occur is less clear is what accounting systems will is that the information that has been have to be adopted by small business to distributed, as evidenced partly from what I comply with the requirements set by the have just quoted, is inaccurate. Statements ACCC. The concern is: how will those small are made and then over time they are businesses fund their conformity with the modified by the comments of other people requirements of the ACCC and the GST who are administering this new tax. So simply legislation without passing on any increased because of the complexity, the confusion and costs to the consumer? the inaccuracies of information about the GST, Many small businesses manage their own there are a lot of avenues through which books, because they cannot afford to employ exploitation can be achieved easily. additional staff or accountants to perform that Everyone in this place says—and I know function. More time spent on paperwork is less that we believe it—that representing our time spent working their already-under- community is the most important part of the pressure business. In an interview with the job that we do. Every single one of us would ABC on the 7.30 Report, accountant Max agree with that. This legislation is intended to Warlow commented— give those in our communities who are the "The ACCC is trying to police the most vulnerable some protection. On that pricing policy of 1,473,000 businesses. It basis, I believe that every member of this really has no hope in doing that." House would support the legislation without The whole system is being geared on any hesitation. I certainly commend the Bill to the assumption that most businesses are the House. on a computer, but if you look at the Sitting suspended from 1 p.m. to 1,473,000 businesses which will be 2.30 p.m. registered for GST, around 33 per cent of Mr FELDMAN (Caboolture—ONP) them are not computerised, so they will (2.30 p.m.): It is with pleasure that I rise to become the unpaid bookkeepers of the speak to the New Tax System Price Tax Office. Exploitation Code (Queensland) Bill 1999. The Their time spent on their books and implementation of the GST in the year 2000 records will significantly increase, which will create a certain level of upheaval in the means it's a down, lost time, non- retail and services industry. Of that there is productive time spent ..." certainly no doubt. Already we have seen retailers engage in the GST hype, either by As a result, they could lose their businesses. subtle price increases to gain extra profits or by I will discuss specifically subcontractors. promoting tax-cut sales prior to the GST Most subcontractors are small businesspeople implementation. who are battling to earn a dollar. They do not The passage of the New Tax System have a magic GST button on anything that Price Exploitation Code (Queensland) Bill will they own. They will find trouble when they see the Australian Consumer and Competition come home from work. Most of their work is Commission, the ACCC, given new powers to done after work. They get up at the crack of guard against price exploitation while the dawn, when it is just light. They usually get Commonwealth Government implements its home when it is late at night. Most of their time GST. One Nation supports that objective, as it in the wee hours will be spent losing sleep, is inevitable that some retail groups may use because they will be trying to ensure that they the new tax system to exploit customers into have dotted the i's and crossed the t's so they paying higher prices for products and services. will not have someone breathing down their As other speakers have already highlighted, neck and prosecuting them. In the same the confusion and suspicion that exist in the interview, Business and Economics editor, marketplace are tremendous. Unscrupulous Alan Kohler stated— people will benefit from that confusion. "Business groups agree that the We would like to express our concerns ACCC will have an uphill battle monitoring regarding the effects that this legislation will the price movements of every business." have on the small business sector and, in Mark Paterson from the Australia particular, in relation to administration costs. In Confederation of Commerce and Industry also July this year, Alan Fels, Chairman of the commented— 7 Dec 1999 New Tax System Price Exploitation Code (Queensland) Bill 5971

"If there's an expectation that This morning the Leader of the Liberal businesses have to maintain records of Party was endeavouring to try to ascribe the impact of the price changes on 29 responsibility for the goods and services tax to July, when the wholesale sales tax rate this Government. goes from 32 to 22 per cent, and then Dr Watson interjected. again on 1 July next year, when the major changes occur, that's one level of Mr HAMILL: There he goes again. One compliance which most businesses, I can deny the truth, as the member of the think, will be able to meet. Liberal Party is now seeking to do. By those sorts of wild claims one can only realise that he The challenge will be if there's an is whittling away what little credibility he has. expectation that every price variation that goes on in the market, many cases every Let it be absolutely clear that the day of the week, if there's an expectation Queensland Government—and the Premier of maintaining records of all those price and I were the ones who bore the changes, there will be a backlash, without responsibility of negotiating with the question." Commonwealth in relation to the intergovernmental agreement—fought right Without question, the Government will down the line in relation to the goods and have to address small businesses' concerns services tax. Through our activities, we made it about the compliance costs. There is a real risk absolutely clear in the intergovernmental to the small business sector that the costs of agreement that three jurisdictions— administering the GST could outweigh any Queensland, Tasmania and New South revenue generated, forcing some small Wales—opposed the GST and that our businesses to close due to the losses that they signatures to the revenue sharing document will inevitably incur. Considering that the small should not in any way be construed as support business sector employs about one-third of our for the Commonwealth Government's goods nation's work force and generates more than and services tax. I remind the Leader of the half of the Australian gross domestic product, I Liberal Party of that fact. cannot stress enough how detrimental that Nevertheless, this legislation is designed could be to rural and regional economies and to try to overcome some of the downside of to the Australian economy as a whole. the implementation of the goods and services One Nation agrees with the ethos of this tax and to enable the ACCC to have a broader Bill. It will create a national scheme to prevent jurisdiction to deal with matters that would price exploitation while the Commonwealth otherwise be able to be dealt with only under Government implements its new tax system, State law. However, this legislation is only short the GST. While we give tentative support, we term. It runs until 1 July 2002 and is designed hope that there is no devil to be found in the to cover the implementation period of the upcoming detail that could send a lot of those goods and services tax. The Government's small businesses to the wall. That would commitment to getting this legislation in place increase the unemployment in this country and is absolute. I foreshadow that, should the would be detrimental to this country indeed. Chamber vote in favour of the legislation this Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) afternoon, as I expect it will, we will have the (Treasurer) (2.36 p.m.), in reply: I thank all appropriate proclamations put in place so that members for their participation and this legislation is put into effect on Friday. We contribution in the debate on this Bill. There is are determined to get this legislation in place. certainly no doubt whatsoever that the advent It is important that that be done, and we are of the goods and services tax is causing doing so with utmost dispatch. considerable heartache to the small business Motion agreed to. sector and to charities across this State and nation. At the outset we indicated that we believed that the detrimental impacts of the Committee goods and services tax would certainly Clauses 1 to 37 and Schedule, as read, outweigh any of the proposed benefits, agreed to. certainly in Queensland. Our economic Bill reported, without amendment. modelling bolstered us in that view. A significant part of Queensland's economic activity is in service industries. Service Third Reading industries are the ones that will be hurt most of Bill, on motion of Mr Hamill, by leave, read all. a third time. 5972 Motor Accident Insurance Amendment Bill (No. 2) 7 Dec 1999

MOTOR ACCIDENT INSURANCE arises because of an incident and for the AMENDMENT BILL (NO. 2) purpose of the person's employment". I wish Second Reading to bring to the attention of the House a couple of obvious cases in which that provision could Resumed from 10 November (see become a problem. For example, from time to p. 4825). time, members of Parliament are approached Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the by constituents who wish to raise an incident Liberal Party) (2.42 p.m.): It gives me pleasure affecting them. to contribute to the debate on the Motor Mr Schwarten: They don't come knocking Accident Insurance Amendment Bill (No. 2) on your door saying, "Gee, you're a good 1999. The Opposition will be supporting this bloke." Bill, which is designed to restrict the ability of certain individuals to tout at the scene of traffic Dr WATSON: I am glad the Minister accidents. The Bill has three tiers, and I have interjected; that is precisely the point I was no problems with a couple of them. However, I going to make. They do not generally wish to explore one issue in particular in approach us just to pass the time of day. respect of which we will be moving an Normally, they wish to raise an issue amendment at the Committee stage— concerning the Government. Irrespective of something I have taken the opportunity to which political party is in Government, people discuss with the Treasurer over the past week. approach us to speak about those sorts of As I said, there are three tiers to this Bill. issues. For example, someone might complain Firstly, the Bill introduces an offence for a to the Treasurer about the impost of payroll tax prohibited person—for example, tow truck on their business or the impost of land tax on operators or other people attending the scene their personal affairs. A public housing tenant of an accident for the purpose of their might approach the Minister who interjected a employment—to solicit or induce a person to moment ago concerning a problem. The point make a claim. Secondly, the Bill introduces an is that they approach us because an incident offence for nominating a particular lawyer or has happened. Generally, people do not just firm of lawyers and also for disclosing drop in. They approach us by virtue of our information in the course of employment, if employment. There might be some used for the purpose of soliciting. Thirdly, the constitutional issues about whether, Bill attempts to make it an offence to pay or to technically, members of Parliament are seek payment for soliciting a person to make a employed as such. However, people approach CTP insurance claim. us by virtue of our role in the community as a We have no problem with the idea of member of Parliament. It could be interpreted trying to stem the growth in the claim that the definition in that clause could apply to frequency associated with traffic accidents. We members of Parliament who respond to have no problem with this legislation applying constituents approaching them in relation to to people such as tow truck operators, panel their involvement in a traffic accident. Because beaters and others whose employment is they do not know where to go, they approach linked directly with traffic accidents. Madam their member of Parliament. Clearly, we are Deputy Speaker, you will have to forgive my caught by that clause. referring specifically to the clauses now so as Other professionals could also be caught to save time during the Committee stage. by that provision. Generally, people see their Madam DEPUTY SPEAKER (Ms Nelson- medical practitioner because they are ill or Carr): That is fine. injured. They do not normally go to a medical Dr WATSON: In particular, I refer to practitioner simply to pass the time of day. It is clause 3 of the Bill, which inserts proposed expensive to see a medical practitioner and new sections 97A(2)(a) and (b). I have no usually people do not fork out money for the problem with those provisions being in the Bill, sake of doing so. They usually see a medical because in my opinion they go directly to the practitioner because they are injured or have a issue of touting at the scene of an accident. medical complaint. If, a day or two following a However, I have difficulty with proposed new traffic accident, people go to medical section 97A(2)(c), because it expands the practitioners with, for example, a complaint coverage of the Bill to people other than tow about a back injury arising from the traffic truck operators; in fact, anyone who comes accident, again, the medical practitioners, by into contact with a potential claimant is virtue of their employment, could be caught covered. The provision contains the broad under this piece of legislation, because definition of "a person who has contact with a "employment" is defined very broadly in the potential claimant if the contact substantially Bill. 7 Dec 1999 Motor Accident Insurance Amendment Bill (No. 2) 5973

I will give a third example. In practice, under pressure at the time of the accident. most accountants deal with businessmen. There is no question about that. People who Many of them are sole operators or run a attend an accident in the normal course of family business and they are involved with their their employment do have information which clients on a day-to-day basis in a whole range they would not gain for any reason other than of financial, accounting and business activities. that they happen to be a policeman, Again, it is quite possible for a small business ambulance driver or tow truck operator. There operator to be involved in an accident. A few is no question about that. We support days later they could be attending with their eliminating that kind of use of information. accountant evaluating the impact on their That is why we will be supporting the Bill in business. Again, the situation arises that they general. have been with the accountant because of an The particular clauses in this Bill are drawn incident and it relates to the person's so broadly that I believe it is incumbent on this employment. House not to accept the legislation as it is I have discussed this issue with the currently written. I have suggested to the Treasurer and he has had advice, and I am Treasurer that there may be alternative ways sure he will speak for himself in a moment. of handling the problem, such as drawing a The advice that he seems to have received is clause to allow the Treasurer under regulation that we cannot expect this particular clause to to specify classes of people, such as tow truck apply because the contact is incidental to their drivers, who may be prohibited from passing normal contact with a member of Parliament, on the information about which the Treasurer medical practitioner or accountant, but the Bill is concerned. I believe that the way the Bill is does not say that. I think I have had enough drawn at the moment is too broad. It would be experience with legislation to know that, if inappropriate for this House to accept the Bill those kinds of things are not specifically in that form. I will leave the more detailed inserted in legislation, it is open to a court's debate until the Committee stage. interpretation, and this particular clause is Mr DALGLEISH (Hervey Bay—ONP) drawn very broadly. (2.55 p.m.): I rise to support this Bill. It gives to At the Committee stage I am going to the accident victim a form of protection from move an amendment which, although it leaves harassment and pressure by unauthorised that broad clause as it is in the main, will add people. It is not necessarily the tow truck to proposed section 97A(3)(b) the words "for a operators, as mentioned in previous speeches, fee". The reason for doing that is that, in the who are the scalpers for the lawyers; there are examples I gave previously, if a constituent many other people at the accident scene. I goes to a member of Parliament and talks to agree with the principle, but I am not sure that him or her about a traffic incident, the member I agree with the Minister's reasoning in regard would not receive a fee just for talking to the to the compulsory third-party insurance constituent. I think there are some other Acts scheme. that preclude that kind of possibility. By adding This scheme exists so that justified claims those words, members of Parliament would be can be made against it if people are using the eliminated from the capture of that particular system appropriately. This Bill should be clause because they do not receive a fee. It passed because it will stop harassment of would enable a member of Parliament to give individuals at a time of distress. This Bill should the name of a lawyer to a constituent who not be about reducing the number of needed legal advice. compulsory third-party insurance claims. The The same kind of thing would be true of system was set up so that people could an accountant or medical practitioner, as I was rightfully claim against this fund. It is wrong to saying earlier. In the normal course of their think that the way to stop the rise in CTP operations, a client going to see a medical premiums is to stop people from knowing their practitioner or an accountant would not be rights so that fewer people will make claims. It caught in that subclause because, under simply translates into more people bearing the normal circumstances, the medical practitioner loss themselves. I do not condone the or accountant does not receive a fee for that. Minister's way of thinking on that issue. They would receive a fee for medical or The majority of tow truck operators are a accounting advice, but not for the purpose of valuable resource not only to the victim of the giving the name of a lawyer. accident but also to the emergency services We agree with the objectives of the Bill. people who attend the scene of the accident. I There is no question that touting is a social think it is about time that tow truck operators problem. People have accidents and are were given a little bit of credit for their efforts. 5974 Motor Accident Insurance Amendment Bill (No. 2) 7 Dec 1999

Whilst a lot of people in this Chamber are in care. I am not sure to what extent that will bed at 2 o'clock in the morning, the towies are apply. out there assisting people in their time of Mr Hamill interjected. need. I commend the Bill to the House. Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM: I was asked for a Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM (Gladstone—IND) meeting under false pretences, then. I was (2.57 p.m.): I just wanted to make a couple of concerned mainly about the fact that the ones comments and perhaps seek clarification from who are mostly likely to be affected are those the Minister on a couple of issues. The intent who can least afford to be affected. of the Bill is to address an explosion of claims The only other issue that I want to raise against the compulsory third-party insurance with the Minister is an issue that the Minister system. I think all of us are in favour of responded to the Scrutiny of Legislation legislation that will reduce frivolous claims, if Committee about in relation to the Motor you like. The greatest source of those claims Accident Insurance Amendment Bill. The was the touting that has been referred to in committee wrote to the Treasurer discussing the Minister's second-reading speech and by the application of the restriction if a person was other speakers. There are a couple of areas of referred to a panel of solicitors versus an concern, though, that I would like to raise. individual solicitor. The committee also pointed The Queensland Law Society's accident out that often the touting occurs when a compensation committee recommended a solicitor gives a kickback to a tow truck blanket ban on advertising for personal injuries operator or the like when they refer clients to work. That is good to see. I know that there that particular solicitor's firm. The Treasurer's was an attempt to get that committee to response indicated that it was a much broader toughen up the solicitor's right to advertise for catchment than just an individual company of workers compensation cases, and it was solicitors; it would also include a panel of perhaps a little bit less forthright in that matter. solicitors. The committee has also called for the abolition The member for Moggill has already of accident victims' rights to seek recovery of touched on this, but most members would legal costs for settlements of amounts less have had people come to their electorate than $50,000. I am concerned about that. I offices who are in extreme financial difficulties. am not sure whether that was covered in the They may have had a long time off work and Bill. may not even be aware of some of their legal Mr Hamill interjected. rights as regards access to compensation. That is not ignorance on their part; it is a lack Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM: That is good. My of experience. This Bill catches any of us—the briefing indicated that it was. I apologise to the member for Moggill raised doctors in relation to Minister for that. I was very concerned about this issue, and I had not thought of that aspect, because people who do receive them—when people who are in dire straits settlements under $50,000 are often battlers come into our electorate offices for help. We who have diminished access to funds for legal really do look around for options to help them action. It would be detrimental to them and I out. We may give a general response by think wrong of us to in any way impinge upon telling them that they need to go and talk to the ability of a person to seek justified redress. their solicitor to see what redress they have One group raised a couple of points with open to them and what rights they have to me. I have not yet had a meeting with them. I compensation. We might even give them a just wanted to clarify a couple of those issues piece of paper which entitles them to a 10- with the Minister. It is proposed that the Act be minute free consultation or a 20-minute amended to abolish the costs indemnity rule, consultation for $20. including outlays for claims where the total Dr Watson interjected. damages recovered are under $30,000, and Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM: No. We say, to prescribe the maximum recoverable "Have a talk to your solicitor." professional legal costs inclusive of counsel at $2,500 for claims not less than $30,000 but Dr Watson: Oh, I see. I thought you were less than $50,000. I just wondered what saying us. assessment was undertaken of the types of Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM: No. We might people that this change would affect and what say, "Talk to this solicitor to see where you disadvantage that would place them under. I stand." If this Bill is presented in such broad also understand that part of the Bill is intended terms that we are going to be caught in it, we to change the access by the family of an are going to be doing a disservice to our injured party for compensation for gratuitous constituents. We are not touting for anything. I 7 Dec 1999 Motor Accident Insurance Amendment Bill (No. 2) 5975 have no great love for solicitors. They are all a insurance scheme is vital. We as the little bit— Government see the retention of a compulsory Mr Littleproud: Don't go any further. third-party system as very much in the public interest. That is the first point. Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM: No, I think I had better leave well enough alone while I am The second point is that, in saying that, ahead. We do need to have those avenues we need to safeguard the affordability of the available to enable us to give advice to scheme. We have seen a massive growth in people. We usually see only the ones who are relatively small claims. I think the member for genuinely in need. They genuinely do not Gladstone used the term "frivolous". There know what avenues are available to them. I will have been lots and lots of small claims. In fact, be supporting the amendment, which allows I have been advised of these figures. In June flexibility as regards our working responsibilities 1995 some 120 claims were being made for as members of Parliament. every 100 hospital admissions due to motor Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) vehicle accidents. In the space of but three (Treasurer) (3.02 p.m.), in reply: Again, I wish years the number of claims has grown to 180 to thank all honourable members for the way claims for every 100 hospital admissions. We in which they have approached the Motor have had a significant swelling of the number Accident Insurance Amendment Bill. I think of claims being made under the Act. I do not everyone has indicated from their remarks that deny the right of anyone to pursue a claim they accept the rationale behind this Bill and where they have sustained injuries and where regard it as a very desirable piece of they have a right of claim. This legislation does legislation. There have been a number of not in any way inhibit the lodgment of claims. issues that have been raised in passing. I will The changes that I wish to foreshadow in not seek to deal with them in the order in the other legislation to come before the which they were presented but will try to rely Parliament next year will seek to put measures upon my recollection of them. I will start at the in place to encourage the early settlement of end in relation to the remarks of the member claims so that the settlement will for Gladstone with respect to issues such as fundamentally contain the compensation party and party costs and putting a cap on the element rather than court fees, lawyers' fees legal fees. and all the rest of the add-ons which are Whoever it was who sought the ear of the costing the community dearly with respect to member in relation to these matters was not compulsory third-party insurance. The single seeking it in relation to this legislation. What figure that came out of the review of they were seeking was an audience in relation compulsory third-party insurance which to the findings of the committee report on the concerned me as Minister was that, over the review of the compulsory third-party insurance last five years, around 62% to 63% of all the scheme. Whilst this Bill arises from a part of moneys collected by way of premiums for third- the work of that review which I established in party insurance were actually paid out to April this year, I wish to foreshadow that there injured parties. Some 38% of the moneys will be a much more significant piece of collected found its way either into the pockets legislation that will come before the Parliament of the legal representatives or the processors, next year to deal with matters such as those the insurers. raised by the member for Gladstone, and Frankly, that is unacceptable to me and it other issues as well. The significance of this is unacceptable to the Government. We make legislation will be as follows. The review panel no apology for putting measures in place to sought to ensure that compulsory third-party ensure that the maximum amount of dollars insurance was affordable. We need to have an flows from premium payments to injured affordable system of compulsory third-party parties. Obviously there is going to be a role insurance. If that falls apart and if people find for the insurers and the lawyers. What I and that they cannot afford to have compulsory the Government say is that there is an third-party cover, it means there will be a lot of appropriate role. The scheme is about unregistered vehicles on the road and it will providing compensation to injured parties, not be— underwriting a holiday house or a handsome Mr Schwarten: The battlers. retirement scheme or a dividend to a Mr HAMILL: It will be the battlers who will shareholder. That is the important point. be most exposed because they will be the The matters that the member for ones who will be exposed totally in law in the Gladstone raised are important matters that event of an accident causing injuries to will be canvassed in greater detail when the another party. The compulsory third-party other legislation is before the House. There are 5976 Motor Accident Insurance Amendment Bill (No. 2) 7 Dec 1999 obviously some trade-off issues here. In As the member for Hervey Bay correctly accepting the review committee's report, we pointed out as an aside during the debate—I have endeavoured to maintain—and our appreciate his comment to me in relation to intention is to do this—common law access for this—these measures are consistent with what injured parties. That comes at a price. There is being done in relation to the Tow Truck Act, are certain trade-offs involved, on the advice of which has also been designed to crack down the Law Society, the Plaintiff Lawyers on the secret commissions and so on which Association and so on and so forth. were passing between certain operators and There will be proposals to limit access to others; in other words, trading out of other party and party costs. There will also be people's misery. As I said to the honourable proposals to cap the amount of economic loss member, I appreciated that comment because it is true. that can be claimed by an injured party under the scheme to, if my memory serves me This legislation is consistent. It dovetails correctly, $2,000 per week after tax. Those with what has been sought in the Tow Truck people who are on a very high income indeed Act. It is good legislation. It is legislation that might have to tighten their belt a bit so that has been the subject of extensive they have an after tax income of only consultation, and not only into the $100,000 per annum if they are to gain the recommendations of the Government's benefits under the scheme. To me, that is a appointed committee looking at the reasonable trade-off in the interests of compulsory third-party scheme on a particular ensuring maximum access for those people term of reference. These provisions have also who are hurting the most as a result of road been put past the Queensland Law Society, trauma. the Australian Plaintiff Lawyers Association and the Insurance Council of Australia, all of In respect of the other issue which has whom have endorsed these amendments. been raised by the member for Moggill, I They are good amendments. They are understand where the honourable member is designed to meet a public good. I commend coming from in relation to his amendment. I do them to the House. not believe that the concern he has will be Motion agreed to. addressed by the words that he proposes in the amendment. I do not intend to go into detail now. I will happily discuss it when we Committee consider the individual clauses. I say to the Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) honourable member and to the honourable (Treasurer) in charge of the Bill. member for Gladstone, who raised a similar Clauses 1 and 2, as read, agreed to. point: there is nothing in the Bill which would preclude a member of Parliament doing his or Clause 3— her duty in respect of the interest of a Dr WATSON (3.13 p.m.): I move the constituent. The Bill will and certainly does following amendment— allow a constituent to go to see a member of "At page 5, lines 10 and 18, after Parliament and, as the member for Gladstone 'must not'— said, the member of Parliament is quite within his or her rights to say, "If you have an insert— accident claim—you have had an injury—you ', for a fee,'." should go and see your solicitor." The member This amendment proposes to amend of Parliament is not touting business for a section 97A(3)(b) to read— particular solicitor; obviously that is a matter for "(b) mentioned in subsection (2)(c) must the individual. not, for a fee, give the potential If a person says, as people do from time claimant the name, address or to time, "I do not have a legal practitioner with telephone number of a particular whom I have any particular dealings", I point to lawyer or firm of lawyers." the Law Society list of practitioners. That way, I Towards the end of his speech in reply to am not recommending a particular firm or the second-reading debate the Minister panel of firms. I am saying, "These are the suggested that the way the Bill is written would people who are qualified to help you." That is allow members of Parliament to carry out their quite a legitimate process for any member of normal functions. I notice that he was very Parliament to go through. It does not in any careful in saying that it would not stop a way undermine the integrity of this anti-touting constituent coming to a member of measure. Parliament, discussing the issue and the 7 Dec 1999 Motor Accident Insurance Amendment Bill (No. 2) 5977 member of Parliament saying, "You should are doing our jobs as members of Parliament I talk to your solicitor about it", and then, if the do not believe we will simply refer them to the person does not have a solicitor, referring to list provided by the Law Society. the Law Society's list. We all know that some lawyers in that list I respectfully suggest that I do not think have expertise in some areas and others have that is how it actually works in practice. I must expertise in other areas. If we give the name admit, not a great number of people in this of a lawyer who happens to be an expert in circumstance have come to see me, but I am Corporations Law when the person really sure that other members here have had more. wants a plaintiff lawyer or something like that, I think the member for Gladstone was far more we are doing them a disservice. They want us realistic in the way she approached this to do the sifting. It seems to me that we are particular issue. People who come to see going to get caught. members of Parliament are usually looking for We are talking about a contact which advice. When we say, "I think you should see substantially arises because of an incident and a solicitor about it", they ask, "Which one? people have come to us for the purpose of Who would you recommend?" That is the employment. I discussed this with question, because they do not have any Parliamentary Counsel—I had a bit of expertise in these things. discussion with a number of them—and the As someone who has been in the problem is that "employment" is fairly broadly accounting profession and as someone who is defined. It includes self-employment. As I said, a member of the professional bodies, I am we could have a constitutional argument about very careful about what I say with respect to whether a member of Parliament is employed, recommending a lawyer or an accountant. In but certainly professionals such as medical most circumstances I would give two or three practitioners or accountants, who are clearly alternatives. I would give a panel. Invariably, self-employed and therefore fall under the constituents say things such as, "Who would definition of "employment", get caught by you use?" Members can pretend that that proposed section 97A(2)(c). The incident arises does not happen, but that is the reality. That is because their client has come to see them what tends to happen. Section 98A(2)(c) because of a traffic accident and they are states— employing them, and the definition of "(c) a person who has contact with a "employment" includes self-employment. So potential claimant if the contact that is the reason for adding the words "for a substantially arises because of an fee". incident ..." As I said during the debate on the second I have said previously that people invariably reading of the Bill, I believe that a better way come to see members of Parliament for a of approaching this is to have a clause in the reason. They do not just drop in to have a cup Bill which allows the Treasurer, by regulation, of tea with us. Some constituents who like us to define classes of people to which this may, and it is nice when they do drop in to say applies. I would support that, because the what a good job we are doing— Treasurer can do that. But what I object to is Mr Musgrove: Why are you laughing? the broadness of these particular clauses. I do not believe that this is good legislation at all for Dr WATSON: It happens from time to this Parliament to be passing. It includes such time. I realise that the member for Springwood a broad definition that it not only encompasses is a relatively new member and probably has us as MPs, potentially, but also virtually every not had that experience yet. provision that operates in our community. That Mr Sullivan: It's just that nobody likes is simply unacceptable. him. If the Government wants to stop touting— Dr WATSON: I take that interjection. I am and I agree that we should stop touting—it sure he will not have to worry about it after the behoves the Parliament to be more specific, to next election. stamp out not only that practice but all People come to see members of potential issues associated with a whole lot of Parliament because they have a problem. professionals who are not engaged in the Something has arisen in their life that requires business of touting. This captures a broad them to come and see us. If they have had a range of people, and I do not believe that, as car accident and they are coming to us for our a Parliament, we should do that. I believe that advice and we believe from the conversation we should be far more specific. we have had with them that it is in their best Perhaps what I have suggested we do in interests to go and see a solicitor about it, if we the future is not good enough. If the Treasurer 5978 Motor Accident Insurance Amendment Bill (No. 2) 7 Dec 1999 has a problem because it is too restrictive by concept into words; we will always have scope adding "for a fee", then I am quite prepared to for argument. That is why—dare I say it—our say, "Look, accept 'for a fee' to begin with, and colleagues in the legal profession do so very then let's come back with a way of making it well, because the language is an imperfect more specific to the particular classes of vehicle of trying to convey the idea. people we want to stop." And if we do that by But to take the honourable member's regulation, and we come across problems in point—I, too, consider that proposed section the future but we have the general power in 97A(2)(c) could be construed to include a the Bill, and the Treasurer is then given the member of Parliament. It says— power to do it by regulation, we know that we can get regulations through very quickly and "... a person who has contact with a stop any escalation of these problems. Under potential claimant if the contact those circumstances—and even without substantially arises because of an incident seeing it—I would be prepared to look at that and for the purpose of the person's kind of thing and offer our support. But as it is employment." written now, this is too broad. It is not good There is an argument to say that that could legislation, and I urge the Committee to include a member of Parliament, and I accept support my amendment. that. Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM: I wonder if the Treasurer can clarify a point for me. Proposed But to take the example to which the subsection (2)(c) says— honourable member refers, that is, the example which is rendered in lines 15 to 19, "... a person who has contact with a the feature of that example is that the potential claimant if the contact person—albeit, in this case, a panel beater; substantially arises because of an incident someone whose employment is very much and for the purpose of the person's involved in dealing with the aftermath of road employment." accidents—does not know and has not met I think that specifically includes members of the other party. So this person is coming to a Parliament. If a member of Parliament has person certainly because there has been an contact with the claimant, they have come in accident, but the panel beater is not a person because they have a problem as a result of who is given to providing legal advice to the accident. And as to "the contact someone. Likewise, a medical practitioner is substantially arises"—it is solely because we not in the business of providing legal advice to are in the type of employment that we are in. someone. So I suggest that the example So I think that proposed subsection (2)(c)— tends to close the range of persons to whom and I am no lawyer—does catch members of proposed subclause (2)(c) applies. Parliament. One could well still argue that the role of a I want the Treasurer to clarify whether the member of Parliament is to give advice. I have example given on lines 14 to 19 is, at law, certainly always held to the very strong view sufficiently specific to then exclude us. I have that, as a member of Parliament, whilst I can some concerns about whether it does. To me, direct people to where they believe appropriate proposed subsection (2)(c) does include advice of a legal nature can be obtained, it is a members of Parliament, because those very foolish member of Parliament who people come to see us because of our job and purports to give legal advice themselves. It is a because of an accident. So we are caught very foolish member of Parliament who would unless that qualification that the member for purport to take on the role of giving any sort of Moggill is proposing is included. Is the professional advice. The most appropriate example that is given on that same page at advice a member of Parliament can give to a law sufficient to then exclude us? person who is in need of professional advice is Mr HAMILL: Again, I will seek to respond to direct them to a source of appropriate to the specific inquiries of the member for professional advice. Gladstone first—not because I am trying to be Mr Lucas: I give them a leaflet from my sexist but rather— local Community Legal Centre. Dr Watson: I understand you're a Mr HAMILL: The honourable member, gentleman. who is not practising but certainly is a person Mr HAMILL: I thank the member. I will who is admitted to practise as a solicitor in this bear that in mind. The issue that has been State, does not give legal advice but, rather, raised by the member for Gladstone is directs the constituent to a place where legal important. Certainly, this is the difficulty, I advice is available—as well he should, and as suppose, with any attempt to try to distil a well he might. 7 Dec 1999 Motor Accident Insurance Amendment Bill (No. 2) 5979

In this particular case, and in the particular we have found it necessary to amend the amendment moved by the member for principal legislation in this way demonstrates Moggill, I suggest that what the member for an imperfection in the original drafting. If it so Moggill is trying to do and what his transpires that problems arise out of these amendment does are two different things. The amendments, no doubt we can bring a Bill amendment says that a person, such as those back here. I believe that this amendment will we have just described, mentioned in deal with the mischief that we are seeking to subsection (2)(c) must not for a fee give the address and, for that reason, I ask honourable potential claimant the name, etc., of a members to support it. I also ask honourable lawyer—not for a fee, not for a payment. But members to maintain a watching brief over there are plenty of other sorts of these issues into the future. As I said, if there considerations that could well pass between a is a problem that needs addressing, let us person who was seeking to have business address it. I do not believe, however, that the pushed in their direction and a person who amendment put forward by the member for was prepared to tout for them than a payment Moggill addresses the issue. of a sum of money. Dr WATSON: I want to reply to one thing Mr Musgrove: What about a campaign raised by the Treasurer. The words "for a fee" donation? address most of the issues. I understand that Mr HAMILL: It could be a campaign someone could make a campaign donation, or donation. It could be some services rendered. something such as that, in a technical sense. I do not believe that the amendment moved In any case, I am not sure that that would not by the member for Moggill—well intentioned be covered. There are other issues associated though it may be—actually addresses the with that aspect when one is speaking of a point which concerns him. I believe that the member of Parliament. reading of these provisions would not leave a I invite honourable members to consider member of Parliament exposed, or a member the case of a medical practitioner or an of Parliament precluded from doing a member accountant. I do not believe that medical of Parliament's duty. In fact, I have to reflect practitioners or accountants will refer clients that, in the 16 or so years that I have been a who come to see them about CTP claims to a member of Parliament, I do not recall any particular set of lawyers. I do not believe that persons involved in motor vehicle accidents doctors and accountants will receive a quid pro coming to me seeking legal advice. They have quo for referring a client to certain lawyers. I always found their way pretty well, I think, into believe that is stretching the argument. I actually lodging a claim and then pursuing it. cannot believe that family doctors will have In the unlikely event— special arrangements with particular firms of Mr Littleproud: They generally come lawyers. If a patient comes to see a doctor or because the matter hasn't been settled, that's an accountant with a problem concerning CTP, all. it is hard to see such professional men referring their clients— Mr HAMILL: I will take the honourable member's interjection. They are seeking a Mr Hamill: We've had cases already person to take the claim up for them mainly where— because they feel aggrieved at the outcome of Dr WATSON: Are you talking about the the claim. That is what frequently happens. majority of medical practitioners? Whilst the amendment may be well- Mr Hamill: We're not talking about the intentioned, it does not meet the objection majority of cases here either, are we? which the member has found in relation to the Bill. The drafting of the legislation is broad, but Dr WATSON: I find it difficult to believe it is broad because it needs to be broad. The that the normal medical practitioner or the practice of touting, giving commissions and so normal accountant will have an arrangement on is something like an amoeba—one gives it on the side with a firm of lawyers whereby they a prod in one place and it pushes out in can refer clients with CTP problems to such a another place— legal firm. If that sort of thing is happening, then perhaps this legislation may be Mr Schwarten: A jellyfish. appropriate, but let us first of all see these Mr HAMILL: A jellyfish; that is a similar specific cases. The legislation is so broad that analogy. This is designed to stamp out a very the ordinary family doctor is going to be unsatisfactory, unsavoury practice, and I caught. If a doctor suggests that a patient believe the legislation will do that. I say to the should see a lawyer, and the doctor mentions honourable member for Moggill, and any other a particular firm of lawyers, the doctor is caught member of the Committee, that the fact that by this legislation. 5980 Gaming Machine and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 7 Dec 1999

If there is a particular problem, the aspects of this Bill. The first aspect is that this Government should come forward with a Bill extends, particularly in clause 21, the range solution that addresses that problem. The of issues that the Gaming Commission must legislation should not be so broad that it is consider when permitting gaming machines in going to catch people who are carrying out establishments. They have to take into their normal professional operations. People account social and community issues. The who could be caught by this legislation include second aspect of the Bill, which covers the doctors, accountants and members of vast majority of the clauses in the Bill, is really Parliament. The legislation should not be so the final stage of the implementation of the broadly drafted that people who have no gaming machine white paper. The third aspect relationship with a firm of lawyers specialising of the Bill relates to a number of other in CTP claims could be inadvertently caught. I miscellaneous Acts, including the Wagering understand what the Government is trying to and Lotteries Act, the Keno Act and similar do in this instance, but I am concerned about legislation, to reflect the ongoing changes that the breadth of the definition. I believe the are occurring in the gaming industry. Government should be far more precise in this My colleague the member for legislation. Indooroopilly, the shadow Minister for Families, Question—That Dr Watson's amendment will speak in a little more detail about the social be agreed to-—put; and the Committee and community aspects of gaming that the divided— Opposition believes ought to be considered AYES, 39—Beanland, Black, Connor, Cooper, when gaming machine permits are issued. E. Cunningham, Dalgleish, Davidson, Elliott, Feldman, There is no doubt that gaming, gambling and Gamin, Goss, Grice, Healy, Hobbs, Johnson, the prevalence of gaming machines is Kingston, Knuth, Laming, Lester, Lingard, becoming more of a social problem. In that Littleproud, Malone, Nelson, Paff, Pratt, Prenzler, regard, the Opposition supports the Quinn, Santoro, Seeney, Sheldon, Slack, Government's initiative in this Bill. I realise that, Springborg, Stephan, Turner, Veivers, Watson, in many respects, the Treasurer has Wellington. Tellers: Baumann, Hegarty foreshadowed already further things coming NOES, 39—Attwood, Beattie, Bligh, Boyle, Braddy, out of his gaming review. However, the Bredhauer, Briskey, J. Cunningham, D'Arcy, Edmond, Opposition believes that more attention should Elder, Fenlon, Foley, Gibbs, Hamill, Hayward, Hollis, be paid to the social impacts of gaming. We Lavarch, Mackenroth, McGrady, Mickel, Mulherin, need to explore things such as better Nelson-Carr, Nuttall, Palaszczuk, Pearce, Pitt, Reeves, Roberts, Robertson, Rose, Schwarten, information about the potential risks that Spence, Struthers, Welford, Wells, Wilson. Tellers: people face when they participate in gaming Sullivan, Purcell activities, better support services for problem gamblers and their families, perhaps tougher The numbers being equal, the Chairman restrictions on access to automatic teller cast his vote with the Noes. machines and lines of credit, perhaps more Resolved in the negative. Government regulation with respect to Clause 3, as read, agreed to. consumer protection, and perhaps tighter controls on advertising. Bill reported, without amendment. When I was involved in the white paper, I explored those aspects of gaming with Third Reading organisations such as Break Even. The Bill, on motion of Mr Hamill, by leave, read previous Government and I were addressing a third time. those issues and I think that it is appropriate that this Parliament and the current Government continues to address them. GAMING MACHINE AND OTHER However, I want to say one thing about LEGISLATION AMENDMENT BILL (No. 2) the white paper, which is something that I Second Reading emphasised time and time again in my negotiations and public performances in Resumed from 23 November (see respect of it, and that is that the white paper p. 5144). was not about increasing the types of venues Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the into which gaming machines could be placed. Liberal Party) (3.43 p.m.): I rise to speak to the Representatives from numerous organisations, Gaming Machine and Other Legislation such as the cabaret association, came to me Amendment Bill (No. 2) 1999. At the outset, I and said that they wanted gaming machines indicate that the Opposition will be supporting included in their venues. I made it quite clear this legislation. I will refer briefly to three that that was not the purpose of the white 7 Dec 1999 Gaming Machine and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 5981 paper; the purpose of the white paper was liquor licence is no longer such a restrictive about the kinds of issues that clubs and hotels mechanism. While a criterion that could be were facing with rapidly changing technology used or that should be used— and their ability to remain competitive with Mr Hamill: I'm glad that you didn't mix other types of gaming that were coming on to singular and plural. the scene in the not-too-far distant future, such as the Internet and eventually home gaming Dr WATSON: Yes. While a criterion products through interactive television. Those should be used, it is not the be-all and end-all. things are a reality. They are going to be there. It is a criterion and perhaps other criteria are It seemed to me that if clubs and hotels were also appropriate. going to continue to operate and perform, Mr Hamill: We'll make sure that gets into particularly their important social functions, the mass media, or whichever medium you they were going to have to compete in a new choose. technological environment and we had to permit the mechanism for that to occur. That is Dr WATSON: Other criteria could be or what the white paper was about. As I said, perhaps should be used. Clause 21 in the Bill time and time again in public meetings and in allows the Gaming Commission to consider private meetings that point was made with other criteria. The social and community those various organisations. impacts of gaming ought to be taken into account when looking at where and when It is interesting to note that the access to gaming machines are to be approved. I am gaming machines comes via liquor licensing. sure that this is the beginning of a broadening That was done originally by the Goss of the criteria and a narrowing of the types of Government when it introduced gaming establishments that will be permitted to have machines into Queensland. It is important to gaming machines. That is an appropriate way understand that the reason for picking liquor to go and it is consistent with the way that we licences as an access point was that it would have gone. represented a hurdle over which an organisation had to jump to allow gaming The second aspect of the legislation that I machines onto its premises. At that stage, wish to refer to is the implementation of the liquor licences were regarded as a mechanism white paper. This was always going to be a that restricted people's ability to access lengthy process, for a number of reasons. gaming machines and, in some respects, if an Firstly, with the introduction of licensed establishment could have a liquor licence, then machine operators and so on, we introduced a adults were in attendance—people had to be significant change in the way that the gaming 18, they had to have the right to vote. If those machine business is conducted in clubs and people possessed those attributes that were hotels. It was always intended that that be generally accepted in a democracy, then it was done in stages, and it has been done in felt that they should have access to gaming. stages by the previous Government and this Government. Mr Lucas: It was also good criteria for the suitability of character of a licensee, as well. We always said that it was our intention to Dr WATSON: I agree that another issue come back to the legislation, and indeed that associated with the issuing of a licence was was a recommendation of the white paper, the character of the individual involved in the which identified the administrative problems operation. It is important to understand that that needed fixing. Those issues were left till the liquor licence was seen not as a the end because they could wait. I think that mechanism for expanding the incidence of this is the final chapter. gaming but as a barrier to entry. It was a Mr Hamill: It's more like a volume. restrictive mechanism. Dr WATSON: Yes, the final volume. I am Over the past couple of years, the way realistic enough to understand that, as society that the general liquor licence has been and technology changes, other modifications interpreted and allocated has really changed will have to be made to the excellent because of social requirements that have legislation that was introduced by the previous come with the advent of the cafe society and Government. Having looked through the Bill other kinds of restaurants that want access to and spoken with the Treasurer's staff and the a wider range of entertainment and staff of the Office of Gaming Regulation, I am beverages. Therefore, I can understand why satisfied that the changes that are proposed in there is a greater tendency to move outside the amendment Bill simply fix up the kinds of the restrictive area of hotels and clubs to which things that we had always intended to be fixed the liquor licences generally applied. Now, the up. 5982 Gaming Machine and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 7 Dec 1999

The legislation amends a series of other pressing the Treasurer to release the report, as Acts, such as the Wagering Act. This reflects the recommendations that come from that some of the changes that are taking place with inquiry can only be a step forward. Not for a the privatisation of the TAB and the moment is anyone saying that we should not implications of that for the people that the have poker machines. They are a way of life in organisation employs, as well as the people this State now. They have been in clubs since employed under other gaming regulations. the beginning of the Goss Government and That has to be taken into account. Some of now they are located in hotels as well. the other changes relate to products in the However, as the shadow Treasurer, the Leader broad gaming area that are covered by of the Liberal Party and member for Moggill different Acts and that need to be taken care indicated, a problem occurs when one tries to of. I have pleasure in supporting the Bill. tie poker machine licences to liquor licences. Mr BEANLAND (Indooroopilly—LP) While I can well understand why that was done (3.55 p.m.): As the shadow Minister indicated, in the first place, it is fair to say that we have much of this Bill deals with technical now moved away from that situation. amendments. However, clause 21 does not Situations exist where Brumby's bread relate to technical amendments solely. Clause shops have been turned into taverns or 21 states that when considering applications— licensed restaurants that have poker "... the other information or material the machines. Premises that used to be Sizzler or commission may have regard to includes Pizza Hut restaurants now have poker information or material about social and machines. At Belmont Road, Tingalpa, the community issues." owners of premises that used to be a doctor's surgery, which is located next door to a child- This is a particularly important matter. care centre, have applied for a gaming Under the chairmanship of the member machine licence. Indeed, the new operation for Cleveland, the Government has been will have its own child-minding facilities. Again, undertaking an inquiry into gaming machine that is in the middle of a shopping centre that gambling for some time now. In fact, I is just down from the road from a hotel. understood that the report of that inquiry was Although the majority of people use due to be issued in the middle of this year, gambling—whether it be at the racetrack, which is almost six months ago, but still it has poker machines or whatever—as an not surfaced. Unfortunately, during that time entertainment, for enjoyment and an outlet, we have seen an influx of applications for unfortunately the figures indicate that growing poker machines, particularly in shopping numbers of people are addicted to gambling. centres. This is of real concern. Certainly there It is a disease that leads to poverty, crime and has been an increase in poker machines in a drugs. It is a disease that means children go to number of areas, but people are primarily school without food. In many cases, children of concerned about the availability of poker addicted parents miss school. They simply do machines in shopping centres because of their not go to school at all. It is a disease that ready access to people going about their results in people losing their homes and their ordinary everyday activities such as shopping. dignity. It is a disease that engulfs the total The annual report on machine gaming for lifestyle of those who are addicted. This is a 1998-99 states that in the 12 months to 30 particularly important issue. It is for that reason June 1999, there was an increase of 87 that we are looking forward to reading the machine gaming venues in Queensland. report that must be about six months overdue. Licensed club machine gaming venues It was originally indicated to me that the report increased by two and hotel machine gaming of the inquiry being chaired by the member for venues increased by 85. Of course, it is with Cleveland was due around June or July of this hotel gaming that the problem of poker year—somewhere in the middle of this year. I machines in shopping centres is occurring. I read some statements to that effect. noticed that just the other day the clubs I stress that Opposition members' organisation expressed some concern about concerns relate to poker machines in shopping this issue. I am sure that the Treasurer is well centres. A new mechanism needs to be put in aware of that. In that 12-month period, the place for the granting of poker machines. I total number of gaming machines in operation accept that the Bill provides that the increased by 4,430, which is an increase of commission may have regard to information 1,149 at licensed clubs and some 3,281 at and material about social and community hotels. That in itself is quite significant. issues. In the past, that may have been It is for that reason that people like me appropriate for the establishment of clubs. and others on this side of the Chamber are Most clubs are stand-alone facilities. We all 7 Dec 1999 Gaming Machine and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 5983 have them in our electorates. For many clubs, were included in retail sales. The ABS figures poker machines have been very successful. show that the definition of "turnover" includes For many smaller clubs, poker machines have retail sales, wholesale sales, takings from been unsuccessful. I will not take the time of repairs, meals and hiring of goods—except for this House to go into that. However, rent, leasing and hiring of land and circumstances have changed. The only way to buildings—and commissions from agency tackle this issue appropriately is to give people activity, for example, commissions received the opportunity to object. In future, from collecting dry cleaning, selling of lottery consideration must be given to applications for tickets and so on, and net takings from poker machines as distinct from applications gaming machines, etc. If the net takings from for general liquor licences that allow licence gaming machines are included in the figures, it holders to seek a poker machine licence. A is little wonder that retail sales continue to rise, separate application process should be because that would be a considerable figure. required so that people have an opportunity to It is worth while noting that the figures to object to the Queensland Gaming 30 June 1998—the latest set of figures that I Commission. was able to obtain—show that 80.1% of all It has been discussed in this place and bankruptcies were non-business bankruptcies elsewhere that local governments should and 19.9% were business bankruptcies. Many handle that process. I do not know that that is of those bankruptcies were people who have a very good idea. I do not think that would be gambling addictions and who have become an appropriate system. The Queensland totally carried away. As a result of my recent Gaming Commission is the appropriate comments, I have received quite a number of authority to consider all the facts. Local letters expressing concern by people who are governments do not consider all the facts in aware of the problems of gambling. They are relation to this issue. A number of local discovering that family members are becoming governments that have gaming machines in addicted to that particular vice. It is a growing shopping centres in their region are opposed concern. In common with the former to them. Time will tell how successful they will Government, this Government provides be in their opposition. An independent appeal counsellors. Relationships Australia and structure similar to that existing in the town Lifeline are two organisations that do planning process needs to be in place. It is counselling work that come to mind. unfortunate that the situation has developed in Relationships Australia has the biggest this way; nevertheless, that is how it has contract with the Queensland Government. I evolved. understand that those counselling services are Previously, the restricted number of inundated and are not coping very well general liquor licences meant that poker because of the large number of people who machines were limited. The general liquor are becoming hooked on poker machine licence was a barrier, as it required a certain gambling and who are suffering problems type of facility and the licensee had to be of associated with that addiction. Those people good character. Recently the process has require counselling on a variety of subjects, developed, and all that has changed. I including financial counselling with the Break understand that the Office of Gaming Even counselling service, in order to help them Regulation and the commission are inundated out of their many problems. with applications by people who are wanting to Governments have done very well. The get in before the report of the inquiry is last Treasurer's Annual Statement shows an presented. The public needs to read that increase of 28.3% in revenue from gambling report, digest it and make some comment on machine taxes. Those tax receipts are up by it. Then some action can be forthcoming in some $52.4m. I know that the community is relation to that matter. I suggest to the awaiting the Government report. I hope that Treasurer that consideration needs to be given that report will make some differences that will to placing a freeze on poker machines in lead to some legislative changes. shopping centres. I am not referring to clubs, The proposed change in the legislation stand-alone hotels or other circumstances that concerns the word "may". I understand that is we have recognised generally over time. If because of the way the legislation is currently there is to be some delay in considering the worded. More changes are needed in order for report, consideration needs to be given to it to state "must take into account", because halting the rush to install poker machines in the Gaming Commission could receive shopping centres. applications from stand-alone clubs for an People have often raised with me the increased number of poker machines. question of whether gaming machine figures Depending on where the hotel or club is 5984 Gaming Machine and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 7 Dec 1999 situated, it may not be necessary in those Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM (Gladstone—IND) circumstances to go though a whole process (4.11 p.m.): I commend the Minister for the of canvassing social and community issues to provision in the Gaming Machine and Other cover the ambit of those aspects. Of course, Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) that is with respect to new ones being set up in intended to restrict the location of gaming shopping centres, I believe it is essential—it is machines. In July this year it was reported that a "must" and not a "may". That is another Queenslanders spend $1.8 billion a year on reason that the Treasurer needs to exercise gaming—nearly five times the amount spent a some vigour in relation to that section. As a decade ago. Much of the growth is attributed result of recent changes, a wholesale change to poker machines. Queenslanders have not is needed. only been gambling more across-the-board; Through emotive advertising we need to increased access to poker machines has seen get across a message about gambling and the expenditure of gambling dollars grow gambling addiction. We have advertising exponentially. Problem gamblers account for about road rage and road accidents. There almost a third of the total, on average losing needs to be better advertising that advises about $12,000 a year. A problem gambler people about where to go if they become loses what is for a lot of people in our addicted to gambling and to warn people community about an entire year's income . On average, non-problem gamblers lose $625 a about the addiction of gambling. No doubt year. Those who have a problem significantly some people are hooked on Gold Lotto or Oz affect not only themselves but also their family, Lotto, but the poker machine sector seems to if they have a family and children. The be the growing sector of concern right across- statistics tell us that 80% of Australians gamble the-board. at least once a year. No doubt that would This is becoming a big social issue. It is of include the Melbourne Cup. Some 40% are particular concern to families and community weekly gamblers. However, problem gamblers groups. This problem is not isolated to a few tend to use gaming machines, or pokies, groups within the community that have spoken casino tables and the TAB. out in the past about problems to do with Overwhelmingly, in regional Queensland gaming and gambling addiction. Unfortunately, the game played by problem gamblers is this is a disease that has taken off within the poker machines, which have become readily community and which affects many families accessible in pubs and clubs. Some gamblers and individuals. Recently, a person hooked on follow a pattern and go to the pub or club on a gambling was convicted of murdering their regular basis. Others are more opportunistic. I grandmother because of their addiction. commend the Minister for the proposed Addicts will go to any lengths to lie, cheat and restriction on gaming machines in shopping mislead people. centres. If we wanted young people to develop a gambling problem, we would make gaming Not very long ago someone remarked machines readily accessible in shopping that problem gambling can lead to the centres, because that is where they hang breakdown of the family unit and the around with their mates. Any attempt to individual, the loss of employment, financial constrain the growing problem of gambling, security, self-esteem and friends, and that it particularly in respect of our young people, is can also lead to theft, lies and a loss of trust. to be applauded. I am sure that this move This disease, once it takes hold of people, is would be supported by groups such as very debilitating. I urge the Treasurer to take Gamblers Anonymous. The closest such group action and see that the report is produced. I to Gladstone is based in Rockhampton. and many other people within the community People from Gladstone came to my office to expected that report in the middle of the year. protest about that. They were concerned It is long overdue. We trust that there will be about either their gambling problem or that of some worthwhile recommendations in it. I ask a family member. They are experiencing the Treasurer to give in-depth consideration to difficulty in accessing support. Our face-to-face some of the issues that I raised today and Lifeline counsellor has been defunded. That is previously and which I know other people in another person who is not available. The St the community are raising with him. I am Vincent de Paul and the Salvos cop the brunt aware that there is an advisory committee and of these problems, particularly at this time of I am sure it is also raising the problems of the year. On behalf of the people in my gambling addiction with the Treasurer. It is in community, I commend the Minister for his the interests of all Queenslanders that the intention to restrict gambling in shopping Government takes action in this regard. centres. 7 Dec 1999 Gaming Machine and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 5985

I commend the Minister for a comment in going ahead with restrictions on the location of his second-reading speech that it is not gaming machines. I intend to make a brief appropriate to allow the expansion of gaming statement that I have been meaning to make facilities into shopping centres and other public for a long time. We hear a lot about how bad areas and that they ought to be available to gambling and gambling addiction is, and I do meet demand, not flaunted to create it. That is not deny that this is devastating for families a comment of which the Minister can be affected by problem gambling. However, the justifiably proud. When gaming machines were benefits to the community from gambling are introduced, they were intended to be another immense. For example, a small hall in our area string to the bow of entertainment and received a Gaming Machine Community recreation available to the community. They Benefit Fund grant of around $11,000. Jaggon have certainly grown well beyond that and we Hall would not have received funding from any now recognise that problem gambling is a source other than the Gaming Machine significant social problem that, unless curtailed, Community Benefit Fund. It is my belief that will continue to grow. the benefits that flow from gambling in the I am concerned that through clause 93 form of these grants—sometimes small grants the Minister is intending to remove the of, say, $3,000 or $4,000 for a kindergarten, a restriction on minors being employed in the school, a hospital and so on—far outweigh gaming industry. There is nothing in the some of the negative points with respect to Explanatory Notes about this clause. We are gambling. This point is often overlooked. For told that clause 93 omits section 117, but no every 100 gamblers in society—for example, explanation is given for that omission. I can every person who plays the pokies on a only see exposing young people—presumably Sunday—there might be one problem anyone under the age of 18—to gaming gambler. The same applies with respect to machines as adding to the problem. I cannot alcohol use. Plenty of people consume understand why the Minister has made that alcohol, but not all of them are alcoholics. In omission and what its purpose is. I understand my opinion, the— that the Minister might be able to argue that it Mr Lucas: It is about striking the would open up employment opportunities in appropriate balance. casinos in Brisbane for university students and Mr NELSON: Yes, that is exactly right. others. Ultimately, in my view, greater problems would be created by making gaming This is a difficult issue, and I do not have accessible to young people. If they were the answers to this problem. However, as a permitted to work within the industry, they person from a rural and regional community, would get a taste of the ethos, the culture and there is no bigger highlight in my day than the lifestyle. In my view, it would only have the when I am advised—and I cannot remember potential to add to future social problems which Minister sends this advice to me; it might rather than solving them. be the Treasurer—that a Gaming Machine Community Benefit Fund grant has been I ask the Minister to clarify the reduction in allocated to a hall, a school and so on. Those the penalties imposed. The maximum penalty grants are of particular importance to the was 1,000 penalty units or $75,000. It is community. Some communities do not see proposed to decrease that to 200 penalty those benefits rolling in as often as they would units. No clear reason seems to have been like. given for that reduction. What was the Minister's rationale for that? It certainly cannot Although there are problems associated be held up as being a deterrent, because the with gambling—and this might be flying in the amount of the penalty is being reduced. I face of political correctness or the current would like to understand the Minister's purpose attitude—I really think that we should not in legislating for that significant reduction. always look at the negatives that come from it. Whilst I do welcome restrictions on places On behalf of my community, I commend where gambling can occur, I would not like to the Minister for taking this action. I am sure see a time when the benefits from it did not there would be those within the industry who flow through to the community—so that would be looking to see gaming machines in Jaggon Hall, for example, could not be certain public places so as to encourage upgraded—because we restricted the use of patronage from passing traffic. In spite of my gaming machines too much. With those points of opposition, I commend the Minister comments, I support the Bill. for taking a stand. Mrs PRATT (Barambah—IND) Mr NELSON (Tablelands—IND) (4.20 p.m.): I, too, would like to commend the (4.17 p.m.): I also commend the Minister for Minister for the restrictions on the location of 5986 Gaming Machine and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 7 Dec 1999 gaming machines. At this point in history, Nation's stance on this issue has always been people are really worried about social structure. one of concern for the average bloke and his Poverty is becoming more prevalent. We hear family and for the impacts that gaming has on daily of children having to be fed breakfast or the community. The legislation is the last of a another meal at school because mum and series that has implemented many changes dad did not have enough money to feed them within the gaming industry. We have at home. This is due to many reasons, but supported the legislation because it has sorted gambling would be one of them and drugs out many inadequate structural and procedural and alcohol would be another. aspects of the gaming machine industry. This The member for Tablelands said that he Bill adds to these improvements. Therefore it, is very appreciative of the grants and so on too, will receive our support. Our concern is for that come from gambling. I believe that most the effects that gaming has upon society communities are thankful for that funding. which still exist. I reiterate One Nation's However, I think it is sad that the money has to rejection of laws that step over the boundaries come via that means. People have generally of individuals' choice and promote the decay lost their generous nature. Once upon a time if of a decent society. a community needed a new hall, people got I am pleased to see that one of the together and came up with fundraising changes that the Bill makes is to allow the ventures and the hall was built. Now it has Queensland Gaming Commission to take into almost become accepted that people go account societal and community matters when begging to the gaming machine fund for some making its decisions. What confuses me, money to build a hall or whatever. however, is the lack of this type of power in the I was very concerned at the thought of first place. Why has it taken until this piece of gaming machines going into shopping centres legislation to make a simple amendment which because, as the Minister said, it was creating a ensures that the societal and community new clientele for the future. Children would be consequences are taken into consideration attracted to the lights, whistles, bells and so when the Queensland Gaming Commission on. Someone very close to me put their life assesses applications for gaming machine savings through gaming machines in a matter sites? I would have thought that the effects of three or four years, so I know what damage upon society would have been one of the they can cause. I also know that, for those most important considerations that the who control the habit, they are a great deal of Queensland Gaming Commission should have fun. For the community in general, as I said, taken into account prior to and during the there are some rewards in the funding that is application process. provided to build new halls or venues in which I have said before that there is not much children can play. that I can do to stop gambling and gaming The issue of educating people in relation machines in this State, but I do stop to to gambling also has to be addressed. Places consider the far-reaching moral considerations in which counselling can be provided need to of legislation. Gaming is one of those issues be more widespread. People should be able to that, regardless of what the figures or the access those services at any time—day or experts say, has negative societal effects. night—and I think in a lot of instances they can Charity organisations such as Lifeline, St do that already. However, in rural communities Vincent de Paul, the Salvation Army, the that is not necessarily so. It is often difficult to Smith Family and a host of other charities, find aid for people who have these sorts of including the likes of Caboolture Community problems. Care, can tell real horror stories in relation to I think we all realise that the saddest gambling. They will tell you of people who aspect of gambling is the bashings, theft and spend their family's income on gambling at the other crime that it can lead to. These people expense of necessities such as food and do not steal only from strangers; the odd carer clothing and, more often than not, the rent. or two has been known to help themselves to Quite a number of people fall behind in a disabled person's finances to feed their their rent and then seek the assistance of gambling habit. In fact, we have heard of such members of this Parliament to prevent them a case recently. I congratulate the Minister on from being evicted, including from housing the part of the Bill that addresses that issue. provided by the Queensland Housing Mr FELDMAN (Caboolture—ONP) Commission. These charities know this and (4.23 p.m.): It is with pleasure that I rise to they pay for the existence of that family until speak on the Gaming Machine and Other the next payday arrives. Drug addiction Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 1999. One certainly is not the only addiction in this 7 Dec 1999 Gaming Machine and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 5987 country. Each and every one of us knows it "It is entirely appropriate, in my view, and we pay for it each and every day. that clubs and hotels continue to provide I have been told—and I have no reason gaming machines to their members and to disbelieve it—that the busiest times for patrons." ATMs in and around the Treasury Casino is After all, patrons and members of clubs know about 2 o'clock in the morning. That is usually exactly what exists in those clubs. That is the just after Government departments, other reason why they go to those particular clubs agencies, financial institutions and other and give them their patronage. If their intent is institutions have transferred the salaries of to play on these machines, they know that their workers into bank accounts. To indicate they are available; and they also know what how bad and perhaps how corrupt our auxiliary things occur in that club. The Minister addiction to gambling has become, recently a went on to say— potato chip manufacturer was placing Scratch- It tickets into chip packets. What sort of "It is not appropriate to allow the generation of gambling addicts are we trying to gaming machine facilities into shopping produce? centres and other public areas. They ought to be available to meet demand, Perhaps if religious institutions and not flaunted to create it." charities had their way, many rules in relation to gaming might exist, such as a cap on the Allowing poker machines at shopping total number of poker machines, the removal centres is not meeting demand; it is flaunting of the capability of those machines to accept it. Gaming machines should not be in currency notes, prohibition on machines to shopping centres. We have just debated a Bill accept credit cards, requirements that which dealt with touting for business in relation machines have automatic shut-down periods to motor vehicle insurance. We spoke about to break a betting cycle and a requirement to tow truck drivers touting for business. I think display the real odds of winning. These are just that putting gaming machines in shopping a few that they might consider. The point is centres is really touting for business. I think the that gaming should not be encouraged but same avenues of debate apply here as were should be discouraged and that the real debated in the previous Bill. Gaming machines societal effects of gambling should always be should not be in any public area where examined. The focus should not always be on children are present. How young do we want the amount of revenue that can be made; the our young people to begin gambling? What is impact upon the family unit and the general mum going to do with little Johnny while she is wellbeing of society should be well and truly having a go at the pokies for an hour in taken into account. between buying the groceries and perhaps It is for this reason that poker machines doing the banking? should not be situated in shopping centres, as I do not deny that there is a demand for the Minister clearly indicated. There is no need poker machines and that they do provide for it and it is completely unacceptable. The some benefit to the community. After all, as idea of placing gaming machines in shopping has been highlighted by a couple of other centres can only be to attract more people to speakers, many charities and community the centre so that retailers can make more organisations benefit directly from the Gaming money and so that these machines can create Machine Community Benefit Fund each year. a new money-making fetish. It is a greedy and Clubs often use some of the profit from the selfish way for retailers to attempt to draw machines to offer cheap services to their customers into their establishments in order to patrons such as meals and to fund functional make money, and it is completely workings of the club. Many people enjoy a play unacceptable. I am sure that if that did at the pokies, and they have the right to do so. happen, rather than seeing children But poker machines have their place, and that abandoned in cars in car parks under the place is definitely not in shopping centres. I am casino or in the inner city, we would see them pleased to see that the Treasurer and I both floating around the malls and shopping agree on that matter. centres. I suppose that if they were in the mall I am generally satisfied with this Bill. It at least they would have a chance to get some furthers the regulations on the gaming industry fresh air and perhaps purchase a cool drink or and accounts for the future growth of something. However, it is not the sort of technology in this area. I am particularly freedom that we want to see our children pleased with the amendment to ensure that forced into. the community and societal factors are taken The Minister summed it in up in his into consideration when the Queensland second-reading speech when he said— Gaming Commission assesses applications for 5988 Gaming Machine and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 7 Dec 1999 gaming machine sites. I have already community. The important issue for us, expressed my opinion in this regard. therefore, is to put in place a regulatory I also share the same concerns which the environment which recognises the benefits member for Gladstone highlighted in relation and the disbenefits, which has an to a reduction in penalties. That is an area of arrangement to balance those out and which concern for me as well. I look forward to the provides the safeguards and the support to Minister's response to the member for those who have suffered because of the Gladstone, as that will also answer my query incidence of machine gaming and other forms and, I hope, alleviate any of the fears that I of gambling in the community. The member have with respect to the reasons behind the for Tablelands made mention of the Gaming reduction in those penalties. Any move to Machine Community Benefit Fund. tighten up the industry and to further ensure Mr Mickel: A great fund. that all business is conducted with integrity is a Mr HAMILL: I take the interjection from positive one. Whilst expressing my scepticism the member for Logan. It has been very of any beneficial effects that gambling has successful. It has met a particular niche in the upon society, I and One Nation will be community. It has distributed something in the supporting this Bill. order of $60m worth of funds into the Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) community since its inception and has (Treasurer) (4.31 p.m.), in reply: At the outset I provided the difference between some want to express my thanks once again to community organisations being able to provide members for their support of these measures. a service and not being able to provide a Whilst it is a very large Bill, there are some very service. That has been very important for the important provisions in it which will have communities they serve. It is but one of the considerable bearing as to the direction of the tools that we have at our disposal to try to machine gaming industry in this State. In deliver a community dividend or community summing up the discussion we have had this benefit to try to redress the undeniable afternoon, there are a few points that need to problems that gaming has generated for some be made. individuals and in some communities. Whether it has been the Productivity Part of the rationale behind the Gaming Commission report of the Commonwealth or Machine Community Benefit Fund, the the foreshadowed report of the gaming review Charities and Rehabilitation Fund administered which I commissioned earlier this year, the by the Department of Families and the Sport considered view of all those who have been and Recreation Fund was to deliver benefits involved in examining the industry in Australia back into the community from the dollars that and in Queensland is that gaming has flow through gaming machines. In particular, generated more benefits to the community the Gaming Machine Community Benefit Fund than disbenefits. In saying that, we must had another role in this, and that was to recognise that considerable employment has compensate the range of community activities flowed from the expansion of gaming in the that previously existed—often around bingo community. We have seen a growth in halls and other sorts of non-profit gaming— entertainment and in the availability of which were used to generate funds for local community services. By and large, the club community projects and local community industry has flourished in this State. There was groups. It is not a perfect system; I am the first a time not that many years ago when clubs to recognise that, but there have been were very impoverished indeed. Since the significant benefits that can be seen, benefits introduction of machine gaming in this State, that have made a difference in particular there has been substantial investment in communities. facilities which have benefited not only sporting This is a dynamic industry and the clubs and the sporting teams involved but also problem for the regulator is that, generally, the the broader community. regulator is placed in a position of having to Having said that, I must say that there are respond to the unwelcome changes where truly major losers. Many of those people who people have perhaps pushed the envelope find themselves with an addiction to gambling just a bit further than the legislators had ever are truly major losers. Whilst one should not really intended. We had a very good example overestimate or exaggerate the negative of that in this House last year when I brought a impacts of gaming—around about 2% of the Bill into this place at the end of the year to population really have a major problem—our deal with what I thought was a very eyes should not be closed to the social unwelcome development indeed—that is, the consequences of problem gambling in the activities of TABCorp in endeavouring to 7 Dec 1999 Gaming Machine and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 5989 establish a number of super clubs around the Government be. We have a social obligation State without any regard whatsoever to the to regulate an activity in the community and to community impact of that further proliferation get it right. We should not be out there trying of gaming outlets. I recall that the House to wring every last dollar out of the gaming spoke as one in saying that this was not the industry, because that would not be in the sort of activity which we welcomed. It was an public interest. What is in the public interest, unintended consequence of a number of the however, is putting our regulatory environment changes that have been made through the in place as a sound environment that upholds white paper process. We put a stop to it, and the public interest. rightly so. I think the community benefited as a I remember a few years ago debating result. probably the first part of what has been the In this context, we should also look at the trilogy of the white paper changes to machine measures contained in this Bill. Yes, there are gaming. I remember having a number of a great number of measures which are, if we discussions with the member for Gladstone in like, housekeeping measures—tidying up the that debate. At the time some concern was white paper process and refining some of the expressed about the direction of some of the regulatory procedures that govern the industry. changes. I think a number of members in the In that context, I wish to make particular Parliament at that time said, "We really need mention of the issue raised by the members to see how this pans out. We really need to for Caboolture and Gladstone in relation to see what the future holds in relation to these penalties. We have sought to review offences changes." I have to say that in one particular and penalties throughout the Bill. In some area I think we got it wrong. That was in cases, the penalties have remained the same. relation to the numbers of machines that were There are very significant penalties of 1,000 being permitted on sites. penalty units with imprisonment as the default As a result of the white paper reforms we option. In other cases, we have considered have seen a significant increase in the number that penalties of that magnitude are not of machines in the community. The member appropriate to the nature of the particular for Indooroopilly has been railing about this in offence and we reviewed them accordingly. the public arena, saying "Tut-tut. It is dreadful. Also, in taking away the prison option in a The number of machines has increased." He number of cases, we have been able to put in did so again this afternoon in the debate by place the use of on-the-spot fines and the highlighting the increase in the number of penalty notice system. In a way, it is refining sites. the enforcement procedures under the Act. All of the increases in site numbers were The second point I raise relates to in respect of hotels. Why? The white paper amendments dealing with the employment of reforms have meant there has been a minors. Again, this is about trying to harmonise significant increase in the number of machines legislation. Everyone knows that venues which permitted at hotel sites. It has become much have been licensed for the operation of more attractive for hoteliers and hotel gaming machines have also had to be companies to put machines into hotels, with a licensed under the Liquor Act. Under the Keno maximum of 35 machines. In fact, it is now the Act and the Liquor Act there are certain case that many hotels have more machines arrangements for the employment of minors. than do licensed clubs. As a consequence of When there are gaming machines operating that, we have seen such growth in the here, keno operating there and the liquor numbers of machines in the community—not licence operating across the whole of the in clubs but in hotels. We now have a situation premises, it is an absolute nonsense to have where a maximum of 35 machines can be different provisions in relation to the placed in a hotel and a maximum of 280 employment of people on site. Here we have machines can be placed in a licensed club. brought it all together and have the same But very few licensed clubs actually have the provisions in place, but the Act still prohibits maximum number of machines. minors playing gaming machines. That is the important point. Dr Watson: There were a few with around As was the case in respect of those 250. amendments that impacted upon TABCorp's Mr HAMILL: Indeed. The honourable expansion plans in Queensland last year, and member's interjection is right on the mark. But similarly in relation to the measures contained the changes generated through the white in the Bill, as Treasurer I am not driven by paper process have meant there has been a revenue maximisation with respect to significant increase in the number of machines gaming—nor should I be and nor should the that are on licensed premises, that is, hotel 5990 Gaming Machine and Other Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 7 Dec 1999 premises. I think we as a community need to passage of this Bill, we will be able to bolster be concerned—not that there are machines in our efforts in seeing that gaming machines are hotels, but just in terms of the proliferation of placed in appropriate places. machines in the community as a whole. It is the case that when gaming machines I do not subscribe to the view expressed were first introduced premises had to have a by the member for Caboolture that we should liquor licence. I believe that simply because pick a number out of the air and say, "This is one has a liquor licence does not mean one the number of gaming machines we should should automatically be able to have a licence allow in Queensland." If we do that we ascribe for a gaming site. That nexus needs to be a value to those machines that should not be broken. These measures will help in achieving ascribed to them. But we need to be very that. I foreshadow further measures to come conscious about what the community before the House as a result of Cabinet's standards and community expectations are consideration of the work of the gaming with respect to the placement of machines. review. That is why the amendments I propose, which I place on record my appreciation of the I have circulated, and the key provision in the efforts of my Parliamentary Secretary, the Bill—a new clause 21—are so important. member for Cleveland, and I acknowledge the The member for Indooroopilly and the very able assistance rendered to him by the member for Caboolture went on about why it is members for Cairns and Archerfield and also taking so long and why this provision was not the officers who worked with the team in in place before this. We and the Gaming bringing together a very detailed report to Commission believed that it had the power to Government. I have chosen not to release the put various conditions in place with respect to report at this stage, because I think it is also the placement of machines. I thought the important that we look to see what are member for Indooroopilly, who has now left the practical recommendations that can be Chamber, was going to become my pen pal, implemented. because he was writing to me frequently about I foreshadow that Cabinet will consider a circumstance at Indooroopilly where a that report very soon. I believe Cabinet will put particular proponent wanted to put gaming a range of recommendations in principle out machines into premises at the Indooroopilly into the public arena so that the community as Shoppingtown. The Gaming Commission a whole will have an opportunity to express its rejected that and I upheld the views of the view in relation to them. Then I anticipate that Gaming Commission. in the new year we can have further legislation There have been several other attempts before the House, which perhaps will not end by proponents to put gaming machines into the matter but further refine the regulatory suburban shopping centres. It was as a result environment in which machine gaming of the Government's concern about the operates in Queensland. proliferation of gaming machines and the Having regard to the comments of appropriateness of sites that the Gaming honourable members in the debate this Commission put in place its guidelines with afternoon, I believe that the views of the respect to shopping centres. Recently it has gaming review and Cabinet will be warmly come to my attention that those guidelines are welcomed by the House. I thank honourable being challenged as being of little value members again for their support for this Bill. because the Gaming Commission did not Motion agreed to. have the power to take into account those other social and economic issues. This Bill and the amendments to it are important so that Committee there can be no doubt that the Gaming Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) Commission has such powers—or more to the (Treasurer) in charge of the Bill. point that this Parliament wants the Gaming Commission to have such powers. Clause 1, as read, agreed to. There are a number of applications that Clause 2— are trying to push the envelope just that little Mr HAMILL (4.50 p.m.): I move the further with respect to sites. I say that the following amendment— community does not want to see gaming "At page 14, line 7— machines in these sorts of places of public access. I believe from the views that have omit, insert— been expressed this afternoon that the '2.(1) The following provisions commence Parliament does not want to see it. With the on assent— 7 Dec 1999 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 5991

¥ section 21 Third Reading ¥ section 154, to the extent it inserts Bill, on motion of Mr Hamill, by leave, read new part 11, division 3 heading and a third time. new section 241 ¥ parts 3 to 9 REVENUE LAWS AMENDMENT BILL ¥ schedule 2.'." Second Reading This amendment seeks to ensure that the Resumed from 26 October (see p. 4295). Gaming Commission has full advantage of the additional powers which we are conferring Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the upon it by way of the amendments that are Liberal Party) (4.54 p.m.): I rise to participate in before the Committee this afternoon. In other the debate on the Revenue Laws Amendment words, that proposed section 21—and I have Bill 1999, which has three objectives. The first foreshadowed the amendment that I will move objective is to amend the Land Tax Act 1915. following this, that is, the amendment to These are minor amendments in respect of clause 154—will come into play immediately land owned and operated by port authorities. upon assent being granted to the amending They exempt that part of land used for Bill. I commend the amendment to the specified Government purposes or for airport Committee. purposes. Dr WATSON: Having looked at these The second broad objective of this Bill is amendments, I agree with the Treasurer that to amend the Stamp Act 1894. These the Gaming Commission should have access amendments address some stamp duty to the powers immediately the Bills are avoidance issues to align the corporate assented to. I think this is a good move. reconstruction provisions with existing administrative arrangements and to provide, Amendment agreed to. broadly, a marketable security duty exemption. Clause 2, as amended, agreed to. The Opposition supports both of those Clauses 3 to 153, as read, agreed to. objectives in the Bill. However, there is a third Clause 154— objective, that is, to amend the Pay-roll Tax Mr HAMILL (4.51 p.m.): I move the Act 1971. The purpose of that part of this Bill is following amendment— to include employer superannuation contributions in the payroll tax base and to "At page 132, after line 3— amend the rates. I foreshadow an amendment insert— to a clause in this section of the Bill. 'Consideration of social and community The Opposition will not oppose the issues for existing applications second reading of the Bill, because of our '241. Applications for gaming machine general support for the first two objectives of licences for which section 38(1A) has this Bill. However, that support is conditional, of effect include applications made before course, upon the acceptance of the proposed the commencement of the subsection amendments at the Committee stage. If they that, at the commencement, are still to be fail, the Opposition will be opposing the third decided by the commission.'." reading of the Bill. This amendment ensures that the Let me address the issue of the payroll Gaming Commission's enhanced powers are tax changes. The payroll tax amendments, available to it to consider applications which including superannuation in the payroll tax are before it, as well as prospective base, expand the base on which payroll tax is applications, in order that the community calculated. The reduction from 5% to 4.9% standards that we have talked about here this and then to 4.8%, while leaving the exemption afternoon can be brought to bear in the level at $850,000, increases the real payroll consideration of all the matters before the tax payable by small businesses. We saw in Gaming Commission. the Budget process that that change alone—simply increasing the payroll tax base Amendment agreed to. by including superannuation—changes the Clause 154, as amended, agreed to. amount that the Government is going to Clauses 155 to 210, as read, agreed to. receive from payroll tax by a minimum of $28m. I say "a minimum" because my Schedules 1 and 2, as read, agreed to. suspicion is that that figure included in the Bill reported, with amendments. Budget process is an underestimate. 5992 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

This is clearly an anti-business and an place, namely workers compensation and anti-employment change. There is absolutely industrial relations, are working against no question about that. It is a tax on business in Queensland. It is no wonder that employment, and it is a tax that employers business people are upset. However, those have to pay. That is why business same people have yet to suffer the havoc that organisations, such as the QCCI, and this Bill will bring them. individual businesses are reacting negatively to The Yellow Pages Small Business Index the change in the payroll tax provisions. indicates that business confidence has fallen. Numerous employers have written to me about Over the past 12 months, the confidence of this. A couple of my colleagues on this side of Queensland business in this Government has the House, including the member for Warwick, reached its lowest level since May 1998. It is the member for Hinchinbrook and others, have reported that only 43% of Queensland sent me copies of letters that they have businesses have confidence in their prospects received from constituents of theirs who are over the next 12 months. Twice as many employers who are now receiving payroll tax Queensland companies suggest that the accounts that show a substantial increase in policies of this Government work against them the tax that they have to pay. rather than for them. In other words, twice as Payroll tax is going to increase for two many Queensland firms believe that the reasons. Firstly, from 1 January 2000 to 30 policies of the Beattie Government work June 2000, employers will have their payroll against them. That is why business is not as tax base expanded by the inclusion of willing to invest as much as we might think it superannuation, but the tax rate of 5% is should invest, given the fantastic economic going to remain constant. The Government is conditions which have been provided by going to increase the base but leave the tax Federal Government policies. rate constant. From 1 July 2000, the tax rate Business investment has been growing will decrease by a mere 0.1%. The tax rate will elsewhere in Australia, with a consequent be reduced from 5% to 4.9%, and later to reduction in unemployment. One would expect 4.8%. That is not a revenue neutral change; it that Queensland, which has been the growth is still revenue positive. The increase in payroll State for a long period of time, ought to be tax by the inclusion of 7% for superannuation doing better than the other States. However, is not offset by the reduction from 5% to 4.9% we are not doing better in such areas as in the taxation rate. unemployment, simply because the policies of Superannuation is compulsory under the this Government are having a negative effect Commonwealth Act. By the time it reaches on the attitude of business towards 9%, the reduction of the payroll tax rate to investment. Business in Queensland has little 4.8% will not compensate companies for the confidence in the future and, as a extra amount they are going to have to pay consequence, is unwilling to invest in our because of the increase in the payroll tax State. base. If one looks at the Yellow Pages index on the perception of business with regard to the Many companies are presently not paying economy, businesses in this State believe that payroll tax, but these companies will have to the State's economy is going to worsen. More pay payroll tax in the future because of the business people believe that this State's inclusion of superannuation. The coalition economy will be in a worse situation than it is Government moved the taxation threshold now. from $800,000 to $850,000. The inclusion of the 7% for superannuation in the payroll tax Mr Reeves: Are you talking about the base essentially wipes out the coalition's action GST? because 7% of $800,000 is $56,000, which is Dr WATSON: This is about your greater than the increase in the exemption Government's policies. Issues such as the level of the payroll tax threshold. In one fell ones the honourable member is talking about swoop this Government has negated the work go right across the country. Business of the previous Treasurer who increased the perceptions in Queensland are worse than payroll tax threshold tax from $800,000 to those anywhere else in Australia. As I said, it is $850,000. no wonder that business people in this State It is no wonder that business has lost do not have confidence in the policies of this confidence in this Government. I notice the Government. member for Clayfield has just entered the The Premier and the Treasurer indicated Chamber. The issues that have been central that they were not going to increase taxes, to the honourable member's concerns in this when in fact they are increasing taxes simply 7 Dec 1999 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 5993 by broadening the base on which the This change to payroll tax will hurt calculation is made. That action has the same business, it will hurt job growth in this State, it effect as increasing the taxation rate. The will discourage people from expanding their effect is exactly the same. When one includes businesses, and it will encourage some firms superannuation in the base, the effective that are on the threshold, in order to stay payroll tax rate as a percentage of the current under the threshold, to not employ that extra base rises to 5.23%. By expanding the base to person or to let go somebody whom they have include superannuation, and taking into employed recently. Those are the kinds of account the drop in the payroll tax rate, we will behaviours that this change is going to still have an effective rate of 5.23% on the encourage. I urge this Government to current payroll tax base. reconsider where it is going and to support the In the Committee stage the Opposition change that the Opposition is going to suggest will move amendments which will make the in the Committee stage. changes revenue neutral, in the sense of Under the coalition's changes to the lowering the rate at which the Government threshold, thousands of businesses were collects payroll tax. This will offset the benefiting. Those thousands of businesses are expansion which will be brought about by the now going to be put back under the umbrella inclusion of superannuation in the base. If the by the changes that this Treasurer and this Government wants to encourage business Government are making. The Opposition will investment, and if the Government is really oppose this section of the Bill and suggest serious about having a taxation regime which changes to the Parliament. The Opposition is not increasing taxes on the productive side hopes that the Parliament decides that it of our economy, it should support the wants to be pro-business, pro-investment and coalition's amendments. pro-jobs in Queensland. Recently, I was speaking with some Mr SANTORO (Clayfield—LP) (5.12 p.m.): people in the information technology area. I wish to support strongly the contribution that These people drew to my attention the fact has just been made by the shadow Treasurer, that the changes affect their industry more the honourable member for Moggill. In than any other industry. The reason for that is common with the honourable member for that the information technology industry is Moggill, I also talk to many business people labour-intensive. This Government pretends who either live within the electorate of Clayfield that it wants to be the Smart State. It pretends or who own or operate businesses within my that it wants to encourage investment in the electorate. They have raised concerns with me information technology area. However, the about land tax, payroll tax and stamp duties reality is that because of the labour intensity of that have been forced upon them by this that particular industry, and because of the Government. When I have discussed with payments that are made to individuals who are them some of the detail contained within this creative—and it takes a lot of creativity to Bill, they also expressed concerns. For that operate successfully in this area—this reason, I wish to make this contribution. Government is going to tax these people at a higher rate. At the same time, of course, the As the honourable member for Moggill Government is trying to tell us that it wants to has just stated, the Bill amends three encourage Queensland to be the Smart State. significant revenue-raising statutes of this Parliament: the Land Tax Act, the Pay-roll Tax It is not a very smart Government that is Act and the Stamp Act. I intend to limit my going to penalise the very industry and the comments to the amendments that the Bill very people whom they want to promote. This makes to the Pay-roll Tax Act, which will Government needs to decide whether or not it include all superannuation contributions in the wants to be a competitive, tax-competitive payroll tax base as well as the proposed minor State in Australia; whether it wants to reduction of the payroll tax rate. encourage industries, particularly the developing industries such as information One of Queensland's great advantages in technology; and whether it wants to encourage attracting residents, businesses and jobs has companies to grow, expand and to increase been its low tax base. Ever since the abolition employment. If the Government really wants of death duties by the coalition in 1977, that to occur, then it ought to make sure that Queensland's low-tax status, together with its the changes that it is making in this Bill are at many mineral and natural advantages, has least revenue neutral, if not revenue negative. acted as a major catalyst for the strong growth The change that I am going to suggest in the in our State's economy. I think that it was in Committee stage will, in fact, achieve that 1971 that the then Federal coalition result. Government gave to the States payroll tax as 5994 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999 a broad-based tax with growth potential as a be of concern to anyone who is genuinely means of addressing many of the vertical fiscal interested in creating the right tax climate to imbalances that were then, and still remain, a reduce unemployment and to give incentives feature of our Federal system. There is no to business to take on young Queenslanders doubt that payroll tax is broadly based and is a to give them a go in the workplace. It should growth tax. However, as the honourable be of particular concern and, in terms of member for Moggill has just stated, it is also a implementing decent policies, a top priority of tax on jobs. Until the current Federal coalition a Government that has as its mantra jobs, had the courage and foresight to introduce a jobs, jobs and an already recognised mythical broad-based consumption tax and to put in 5% unemployment rate target. place a visionary and progressive tax-sharing To understand how this regressive arrangement with the States—and under this situation has come to pass, one has to Government Queensland was very quick to examine three things. Firstly, there is the jump on board, despite the fact that day after proposal in this Bill, and announced in the day we hear them criticise the Budget, to include employer superannuation arrangement—we had the unfortunate contributions in the payroll tax base. In the situation whereby the States were compelled Budget papers, the Government made it clear to rely upon payroll tax to keep afloat. that it wants to maintain the payroll tax base In recent years, that reliance has been as broad as possible. It was claimed that, over exacerbated with various High Court decisions time, the exclusion of superannuation on excise duties that have further limited the contributions from payroll tax would erode the ability of State Governments to move away tax base and, to deal with that, all employer from payroll taxes. In the 1998-99 financial contributions would be included from 1 year, Queensland received $971m from payroll January 2000. It is not correct to assume that tax. It is the single biggest source of tax superannuation contributions are totally revenue for the State, only approached by exempt from payroll tax. Currently, employee- stamp duties at $784m, and motor vehicles at elected salary sacrifice arrangements that $708m. Nevertheless, the point must be made involve superannuation payments are taxable. again and again that payroll tax is a tax on Of course, whenever the tax laws change to jobs and it is a burden particularly on small widen the scope, there seems to be a manic business. It acts as a disincentive for the compulsion to introduce retrospective laws as employment of young people and, to that well as a range of other measures designed to extent, presents as many social problems as it prevent so-called avoidance schemes but such presents tax advantages. actions only add further burdens and problems I recognise that the current payroll tax rate for business. This Bill is no exemption. of 5% is the lowest payroll tax rate in Australia The Budget papers do not spell out how and that the exemption threshold is also the much of the increase in payroll tax revenue highest exemption threshold in Australia and that change will produce. However, at one compares favourably with the $600,000 stage the Premier said that it would bring in threshold in New South Wales and the paltry around $30m this year alone. I suggest that $515,000 threshold in Victoria. However, when that is a conservative estimate. It is clear that one reads this year's Budget papers, it is clear this tax burden will grow rapidly. The that this Government is actually aiming to Explanatory Notes to the Bill make it clear that, increase payroll tax takings from employers with the proposed increase in superannuation and that the net effect of the changes contributions from 7% to 9% in 2002, tax announced in the Budget will be to further revenues will increase significantly. burden the business community in general Nevertheless, other implications of this and the small business sector in particular. measure are not in the long-term interests of As I said, last financial year the State the community. Clive Bubb, the chief executive received $971m from payroll tax. However, of the QCCI, pointed out that those Budget Paper No. 2 at page 92 estimates that companies—and there are quite a few—who this financial year payroll tax receipts will jump pay significantly more than the 7% mandated to $1.092m. In short, under the Beattie Labor superannuation contribution will reconsider this Government, during this financial year alone employee benefit to avoid being caught up in payroll tax receipts will jump by more than the payroll tax system. $100m and for the first time in Queensland's That gets back to the $850,000 threshold, history business will be paying more than which is my next point. However, before $1 billion a year to the State Government for turning to that, I suggest that the Government the privilege of employing fellow should be doing everything that it can to Queenslanders. That is something that should encourage superannuation contributions. Self- 7 Dec 1999 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 5995 funded retirees are essential for the long-term The third matter is the supposed good welfare of this State and this nation. With an news item in this Bill, namely, the decrease in ageing population and a tax base that cannot payroll tax from 5% to 4.9%. Welcome though keep pace with social welfare requirements, it is, that small decrease will not come into play without many more people saving for their until 1 July 2000. While that small decrease retirement, it is socially irresponsible and has been delayed until the next financial year, fiscally myopic to try to widen the payroll tax we see the tax grab in the form of the net in this fashion. I suggest that the extra tax widening of the tax net to include revenue garnered from this exercise is far superannuation contributions coming into play outweighed by the disincentives that it will from 1 January. What we have is a six months create for certain small business employers lagging indicator. For six months business will paying more than the 7% superannuation get absolutely nothing in the form of tax relief contribution because of the payroll tax and the State Government will be able to threshold. This widening of the tax base is a maximise revenue collection. That is only one good example of bean counters not factoring aspect of the deceptive nature of the in the wider social and community implications. supposed reduction in payroll tax. In this context, I think that the Government The second aspect is that in almost every has again shown that it does not have the case the 0.1% reduction will be offset by vision needed to ensure the long-term including superannuation contributions. Even prosperity of the State of Queensland. though there will be a reduction, the The second matter is that the $850,000 Government's widening of the tax base will threshold has remained unchanged. The have wiped out any advantage for business. Treasurer would or should know that many That will actually ensure that, even after 1 July small businesses deliberately keep employee next year, nearly every business operating in payrolls under the payroll tax threshold to this State will pay more tax. avoid the payment of potentially crippling The third and most regressive aspect is taxes. What we are seeing at the moment is the fact that, although medium and big annualised wage growth of around 3% to 4%, business will be paying more, the real losers with consequent increases in payrolls. Small are small business which will be pushed over businesses that are currently paying no tax will the threshold and will have to pay payroll tax be pushed above the threshold. This is for the first time. If the Government had been compounded by the inclusion of the 7% serious about bracket creep and avoiding the superannuation contribution. At the moment, harm that these measures will cause to mum the 7% contribution is exempt from payroll tax. and dad style small business operations that However, this will change from 1 January, and employ young kids straight from school, it in another two years it will be 9%. would have increased the threshold amount by For many small businesses, the reality is at least 7% to take into account the that the combined effect of pay increases and superannuation changes. the widening of the payroll tax base to include The reality is that an increase in the the 7% superannuation contribution will result threshold of around 10% is needed just to in the threshold decreasing by more than 10% maintain the status quo this year. With respect this year alone. Not only will we see a situation to the Treasurer, I suggest that this is not too where there will be no incentive in small much to ask. I suggest that such a change businesses for employers and employees to would help many small businesses and their agree to superannuation contributions of more employees. The sad thing about the changes than 7%, but we will see a situation where is that they will come into operation on 1 many small businesses may not put on more January, which is when many kids have left staff because of the payroll tax threshold. It school and finished their post-breakup holidays would be tragic if some small businesses are and will be looking for their first full-time job. At actually forced to lay off staff because they the very time that those kids are seeking cannot afford to pay payroll tax and need to employment, this Government is creating reduce their payrolls under the $850,000 limit. disincentives for small businesses to employ While this Government continually suggests them. For a Government that is supposedly that it wants to reduce unemployment to 5%, fixated with job creation and is constantly over the past year it has introduced a range of lecturing the business community about giving taxes and imposts, red tape, regressive laws kids a go, that is a strange message to send and a 1950s style industrial relations system to small businesses that, as a result of that will actually result in job losses and will put enlightened Government policies, should have a straitjacket around the State's business the capacity and the incentives to give the kids community. a go. 5996 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

As I have said, the extra revenue that this the amendments favourable consideration and Bill will generate will in no way compensate for then enjoys the political and social benefits the potential social and economic harm that it that will result. will cause. I welcome the fact that we still have Mrs SHELDON (Caloundra—LP) a competitive edge on the other States with (5.26 p.m.): I have some concerns that the our payroll tax system—that is something that Revenue Laws Amendment Bill, particularly we all should be proud of—and I welcome the with regard to payroll tax, is actually a decrease in payroll tax to 4.9% from 1 July disguised revenue grab. For a very small next year. Any decrease in payroll tax that can decrease of 0.1%, we are going to see a be factored into our Budget in a fiscally considerable broadening of the base which, responsible manner deserves bipartisan over a period, will continue to broaden and support. However, as I have indicated to the more and more small businesses will be House, those positives are overwhelmed by brought into the net. When one starts putting the negative impact of widening the tax base employer contributions for superannuation into and not increasing the threshold. I encourage the equation relating to the baseline of the the Government to speak to the small people who have to pay payroll tax, one business community and reconsider the payroll broadens the base quite considerably. tax threshold. In the event that this law remains unaltered, I am concerned that it will When the coalition was in Government, drive down small business confidence and act on two occasions we increased the threshold as yet another disincentive to job creation in by $50,000. The threshold was $850,000 Queensland. starting on the first day of 1998. As a result of that increase in the threshold, some 3,000 As the honourable member for Moggill Queensland businesses received a new year's has said and as I have indicated in my gift in the form of paying less payroll tax. contribution, these tax initiatives and policies Obviously, that number of businesses and add to the other burdens that the Beattie more will be adversely affected by having their Labor Government has imposed on small businesses dragged back into the payroll tax business, such as antiquated industrial net. relations laws, a workers compensation system that is hitting small business and business The Treasurer keeps saying that that will generally very hard with massive increases in not occur, but I know that it will occur. Indeed, workers compensation premiums, and native he knows that it will occur. There is no other title policies that have discouraged exploration reason to make that change. One does not and the development of new mines. The story give a minuscule reduction in rate and could go on and on, but I will not abuse the broaden the base unless one knows that one privileges that the House affords to people like will get more revenue. That is the real issue. myself by visiting areas of policy that can be This legislation will affect particularly small debated at another time. businesses or businesses with a reasonable number of people employed. This Government I ask the Treasurer to consider very is supposedly out to create jobs, but this is not seriously the amendments that have been the way to do it. We should be giving more foreshadowed by the honourable member for incentives and the threshold should be raised Moggill on behalf of the Opposition. I believe even higher so that fewer businesses are that those amendments will negate most of caught by what is a pretty iniquitous tax. the regressive aspects that are contained within the Revenue Laws Amendment Bill. If This is another in a series of cases in the Treasurer does that, he will receive many which the Government has not acted positively plaudits from the small business community towards business. When I was Treasurer, the and the business community generally. More last Budget that I brought down provided a importantly, he will be able to bask in the stamp duty exemption for the refinancing of pleasure of making a very real and significant loans and other financial instruments. The contribution by providing the incentive for small benefits to business were going to be businesses to employ Queenslanders, significant. For example, there would have particularly young Queenslanders. The been an indicative saving of $200 for worthwhile amendments that have been refinancing a home mortgage of $150,000 foreshadowed by the Leader of the Liberal and $400 for refinancing a home mortgage of Party, the shadow Treasurer, will mean that $200,000. the Bill will not bankrupt the State or disrupt its We were also going to look at helping fiscal strength—serious as that may be in the businesses to refinance a loan, irrespective of eyes of the Treasurer—to any great extent. I how big or small they were, provided the same strongly recommend that the Treasurer gives amount of the loan was to be refinanced; they 7 Dec 1999 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 5997 would not have been allowed to up the ante or turned around. That is what moves the have a completely new loan. Upon refinancing economy along. If we are going to adopt the a loan for the same amount, the stamp duty negative point of view that no-one should ever would have been dropped. That was not make a profit or make any money, who will followed through. Business thought that was a provide jobs and an economic lift? really good incentive. Given that the prevailing Mr Sullivan: You're being silly. interest rates were often much lower than when businesses took out their loans, Mrs SHELDON: No, I am not; it is people renegotiating their loans at a lower interest rate such as the honourable member for would have saved them a lot of money in Chermside, who has a total welfare mentality, monthly repayments. One of the reasons a lot who are being silly. I note that even Noel of them were not doing so was the Pearson is against that sort of welfare, and Government stamp duty they would have to good on him. I think what he is suggesting has pay. We thought it only fair that stamp duty be a lot of merit and it should be looked at in removed so that people could refinance their detail. That Aboriginal leader is showing that loan. Unfortunately, that has not been followed he has thought through the problems and is through. trying to help his people. I hope his ideas are looked at. I am also concerned that this Government has not followed through on the proposed We have to show that we appreciate stamp duty exemption for crop insurance to be people who put in a hard dollar and take a risk provided from 1 January 1999, which would and that, as a Government, we are prepared have assisted farmers by reducing the cost of to give them some help. I know we are the low protecting crops. That would have had a tax State, and I certainly hope we always stay revenue cost of $1.3m in a full year, yet this that way. However, because we are also a very Government has not followed through on it, stable State financially and we have a great which is terribly petty. That would not have balance of assets over liabilities, a been a big cost to consolidated revenue, but it Government can, if it so wishes, give would have been a big plus for farmers. It incentives to its small businesspeople and showed people battling on the land that the others who help turn the economy around and Government was concerned about how they make jobs. It can say, "We understand your were going and that, in a small way, we were problems. As a Government, we are making prepared to help. Unfortunately, that has not our contribution as well." The axing of those been continued. incentives by this Government was a negative step. Yes, it might have saved some money I am also concerned about what will for consolidated revenue. happen to land tax. We made a commitment that we would totally phase out land tax and, I know that all of the tax reductions that in every year, we put in place steps to do that. we made in the first year were going to cost I notice this Budget states that that will about $63m to consolidated revenue. continue in this financial year. However, there However, we know that the Government is is no mention of it continuing in the out years. receiving increased revenue from the gambling There is a genuine concern that it will not tax. Unless the Treasurer is prepared to make continue. We increased the general land tax some genuine efforts to put more of the rebate from 5% to 10% and we introduced the consolidated revenue that he gets from new $40,000 statutory deduction for gambling tax into welfare and helping people companies, trusts and absentees. That helped who have problems, the Government is really people being hit with land tax. The old just making a lot of money out of these people argument that only the wealthy pay land tax is and not putting more back. As there is a a nonsense. It is a furphy put about by the considerable increase in the take for the Socialist Left Wing of the Labor Party, who Government, it would not hurt to increase the believe that anybody who pays land tax has to percentages put into the Sport and Recreation fit into the category of the wealthy. That is a Fund, the Welfare Fund and the Gaming load of nonsense. A lot of people, particularly Machine Community Benefit Fund. I support people on the land, battle to pay land tax. the amendment flagged by Dr Watson. I urge Because of land tax, a lot of people choose the Treasurer to do likewise and to show some not to continue with any further investment. genuine commitment to trying to help small They may have money to invest, but if they do businesspeople and create jobs. so they have to pay it back to the Government Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) by way of land tax. However, if those (Treasurer) (5.35 p.m.), in reply: This afternoon investments were made, they would create I am pleased to draw this debate to a close. jobs and business. The economic dollar is However, I admit that it is always a source of 5998 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999 fascination to me to hear the former coalition Mrs SHELDON: I rise to a point of order. I Treasurer lecture us about tax. After all, who find those comments untrue and offensive and has forgotten the former Treasurer's first I ask them to be withdrawn. Budget? This afternoon we heard all about Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: The honourable how taxes should be cut. The member for member finds them offensive. I ask the Caloundra was the person who brought into Treasurer to withdraw them unreservedly. this House a Budget that contained no fewer than seven new taxes, charges and hikes—all Mr HAMILL: I am sorry. I do not in her first Budget. She knows how to put up understand. I was meaning to attack the taxes, but she does not know much about member for Clayfield, but I am pleased to hear bringing them down. that the member for Caloundra still supports him. Mrs SHELDON: I rise to a point of order. The Treasurer would have all of the Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: No. The information at his fingertips. He knows that is Treasurer did say "Caloundra". incorrect. I find it offensive and I would like it Mr HAMILL: No, I had moved off the withdrawn. member for Caloundra; I was referring to the Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Mickel): member for Clayfield. Order! The honourable member for Caloundra Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: The member for would like a withdrawal. Caloundra found the reference to her Mr HAMILL: I did not want to offend her offensive. I ask the Treasurer to withdraw it, in any way personally. and then we can get on with it. Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! She would Mr HAMILL: I must admit that I do not like a withdrawal. know what the member could have found offensive. If she found anything offensive, I Mr HAMILL: I withdraw anything that she withdraw it. may find personally offensive, and I would refer her and— Just as the Opposition did not understand the levying of land tax, similarly we heard the Mrs SHELDON: I would like it withdrawn in Opposition betray its ignorance in relation to an unqualified manner. payroll tax. Where was the member for Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: The Treasurer will Clayfield when the member for Caloundra was withdraw it in an unqualified manner. the Treasurer? Obviously, he did not listen to Mr HAMILL: I unreservedly and her speeches. At that time, the member for unqualifiedly withdraw anything I have said Caloundra used to tell us ad nauseam how which may have offended the tender small business in Queensland does not pay sensitivities of the member for Caloundra. But I payroll tax. I remember it well. The member for refer the honourable member to Hansard, Caloundra used to say that, because of the where the issues are adequately and highest threshold for the payment of payroll comprehensively canvassed and show that the tax, only around 4% of Queensland Borbidge Government's first Budget businesses pay any payroll tax whatsoever. foreshadowed some seven new or increased Mrs Sheldon: I said there'll be more now. taxes and charges. It is there for all to see, yet Mr HAMILL: Was that offensive? Does the member for Caloundra is telling us how all the member want me to withdraw that as well? of these taxes should be abolished and that Of course not! Then the member for the Budget measures contained in this Caloundra sat back and allowed the member legislation ought not be supported. for Clayfield to mislead the House with respect Nevertheless, a number of other furphies have to payroll tax. been peddled by honourable members opposite. I would have thought that a former The member for Clayfield was saying that Treasurer would have known, for example, in all of these small businesses were going to be relation to land tax that, contrary to her adversely affected because of the change to assertion that all of these people on the land the base in payroll tax. The inconsistencies are paying land tax, that is not the case. uttered from the Liberal Party in relation to taxation measures are worth noting by all Mrs Sheldon: I said "some". members of the House. They really cannot be Mr HAMILL: Of course, agricultural land is believed when they make these expressions of exempted from the payment of land tax. But concern, as they have done this afternoon. then again it does not surprise me that the But what of the measures in particular? The former Treasurer would have made such a member for Clayfield talked about the blunder in that regard. Nor does it surprise me increases in land tax. He talked about his that I heard the member for Caloundra— constituents in Clayfield coming to talk to him 7 Dec 1999 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 5999 about the increases in land tax. This capital works and services without cutting Government delivered an extension in the services. I would have thought that any rebate to land tax, and that was done in this business that reordered its activities in a way Parliament not all that many months ago. We which ensured that services were enhanced also heard from the member for Caloundra a and output increased would be a business that litany of abandoned taxation measures. What ought to have received the approval and we have from this Government has been the support of honourable members opposite. honouring of commitments in relation to land That should be the case in relation to the tax. We have had concessions in relation to Government's Budget. stamp duty, including those contained in this What of the amendment moved by the Bill. They are important concessions to assist Leader of the Liberal Party this afternoon? new capital raisings from Queensland Apart from the fact that the amendment of the companies on foreign markets. I trust that Leader of the Liberal Party would see his those opposite will support that. adjustments to payroll tax rates occurring When we hear the ultimate condemnation immediately upon assent of the Bill and that the measures contained in this Bill are an despite the fact that there is a mismatch with attack upon business, then I say bah and the start-up time for the inclusion of humbug to the Opposition. If they look at the superannuation in the base of assessments performance of this Government and the for payroll tax, I suggest that the amendment measures that this Government has put in is fundamentally flawed. I had been led to place to foster economic and business activity believe that the Opposition, because of their in this State, they can clearly see that this silence on the matter, had given us support in Government has been extraordinarily relation to the economic principles which were successful. I illustrate the point. Apart from the enshrined in our charter of social and fiscal revenue measures which I have just outlined, responsibility. I believed that the Opposition what was the business community's reaction to supported us in our objective to at least this Government's commitment to capital maintain or seek to increase total net worth of expenditure? Absolute rapture. Last year this the State. True? Come on! It is not a trick Government delivered a record capital works question. I believe that the Opposition program in this State of some $4.979 billion, endorsed that principle. I believe that the far in excess of anything that was delivered Opposition also endorsed the principle of under the coalition Government—a capital maintaining in a full and actuarial basis the program which fostered business confidence provision for the contingent liabilities of and business activity. In fact, were it not for the Government. Government's capital works program, we would not have seen GSP growth in this State at Dr Watson: That's right. near the level it was last year. We have been Mr HAMILL: You do? able to sustain a significant margin on the Dr Watson: So what? national figure for growth. It is likewise this year. Mr HAMILL: The honourable member In the Budget we have foreshadowed says, "So what?" It is a very important principle growth which exceeds that for the nation as a without which Queensland would go down the whole. Yes, Treasurer Costello forecast an slippery pole of that of other States and easing in growth in the Australian economy. Territories. After all, Queensland is a part of Australia. We Mrs Sheldon: It's not a new principle. cannot simply paddle our own canoe in the Mr HAMILL: It is an oldie but a goodie, opposite direction to the rest of the nation. We and one to which we adhere. I also thought are forecasting growth which exceeds the the Opposition would have supported the growth of the national economy again this principle that Governments do not go around year, notwithstanding the significant challenge borrowing willy-nilly for social infrastructure and that the Asian economic crisis and the impacts that, within a Budget, Governments only of low commodity prices have held for a borrow for capital infrastructure and only to the number of our export industries. extent of, if borrowing outside the provision Those opposite talk about not being where there is an income stream directly able sympathetic to the needs of business. In the to service the borrowing, at least borrowing formulation of the Budget this year this within the operating bank of the operating Government identified some $568m worth of surplus. That was the sort of principle outlined lazy money, money which was not working in in the commission of audit report which had the best interests of the people of been commissioned by the former Queensland. We directed those funds into Government and which they endorsed. 6000 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

Mrs Sheldon: Very good. member for Moggill. That is the sort of Mr HAMILL: The member for Caloundra economic irresponsibility that this Government says, "Very good." I agree with her. It is very will not tolerate. The impact of the Opposition good. It is a principle which we enshrined in amendments would be to plunge the Budget our charter of social and fiscal responsibility. I into deficit. It should not be supported. would have also thought that the Opposition Mrs Sheldon: That is absolute garbage, would have believed that it is important that, in and you know it. the provision of services, those services can be Mr HAMILL: I am sure the member for afforded and that the provision of these Caloundra calling it garbage will sway the vote services can be sustained. That is a tricky one, in the House. isn't it? They are deathly silent. Motion agreed to. Opposition members interjected. Mr HAMILL: You do not disagree with that principle either? The way we do it is Committee through the maintenance of that operating Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) surplus in GFS terms. Those opposite also (Treasurer) in charge of the Bill. believe, and I have heard them say— Clauses 1 to 8, as read, agreed to. Dr WATSON: I rise to a point of order. Clause 9— The Government has borrowed $350m via the GOC. That is what the Government has done. Dr WATSON (5.50 p.m.): I move the That is the only reason it is staying there. following amendment— Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Mickel): "At page 8, lines 24 to 27— Order! There is no point of order. The member omit, insert— will resume his seat. '(a) for wages paid or payable before 1 Mr HAMILL: The member for Moggill and July 2001—4.7%; the Leader of the Liberal Party should not talk about $850m. That was the magic figure they (b) for wages paid or payable on and raided from the electricity industry in 1997. We from 1 July 2001—4.6%.'." all know about that, too. But my point is this: I covered this matter fairly extensively in the Opposition this afternoon has said that my speech during the second-reading debate, they support the maintenance of a competitive but I will reiterate. The arguments that the tax environment in Queensland. This Treasurer used in his reply to the debate legislation does so. Through the analysis I simply do not have any logic to them. All of the have done of our Charter of Social and Fiscal statements may have been true, but it does Responsibility, they also support the other not lead necessarily to his conclusion. Even if measures that are part of those five measures we accept all of his premises as being true, that make up the charter. Yet this afternoon in they do not necessarily lead to his conclusion. this House, the Leader of the Liberal Party That is what the non sequitur was. I would came into this place and sought to move have thought that somebody with the amendments which would result in the removal Treasurer's education would have understood of the operating surplus which would put us that. into an operating deficit. That would be the The member for Caloundra was right impact of the measures that have been when she said that what the Treasurer was moved by the Leader of the Liberal Party. saying was garbage. That is precisely what it Dr WATSON: I rise to a point of order. I was. Everything that the Treasurer says implies would have thought that the member for that something else cannot be done in the Ipswich would have known what a non sequitur Budget. It assumes that the kinds of things was and would not have done it in the House. you did to— Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! There is The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: The no point of order. Treasurer did. Mr HAMILL: I know what an economic Dr WATSON: Well, actually, they were not fraud is, and it sits opposite. What we have his actions. I understand. It was the then here is a Leader of the Liberal Party who Acting Treasurer, because the Treasurer had would put forward an amendment to the other issues. It probably was not the fault of taxation revenue of the State that would the Treasurer. It was actually the fault of the plunge the Budget into an operating deficit. Premier and then Acting Treasurer. But the That is the sort of economic management we Government ripped off $1.235 billion. That is have come to expect from the likes of the the cash deficit in GFS terms. The 7 Dec 1999 Tree-clearing Guidelines 6001

Government took that by raiding, quite TREE-CLEARING GUIDELINES unconscionably, the GOCs. It raided their Mr SPRINGBORG (Warwick—NPA) dividends. It made them borrow to fund (6 p.m.): I move— essential capital development. It used those proceeds to support its Budget. You cannot "That this House calls on the come into this place and say that we are the Government to postpone plans to economic vandals. You are the one— introduce mandatory tree clearing restrictions on freehold properties or a The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! moratorium on clearing until the The member will address his remarks through completion of independent economic and the Chair. social impact assessment studies on the Dr WATSON: The then Acting Treasurer is benefit of such restrictions for the the one who put this State in a perilous environment and the impact of such position with respect to a whole lot of GOCs. restrictions on rural freehold property That is the real situation. values; property productivity and viability; rural jobs; and rural communities; Mr Hegarty interjected. and further that the Beattie Dr WATSON: Of course. We will wait to Government stop making scurrilous and see what happens. We will wait to see what ill-informed judgments from the window of the accounting is next year to make that the Government jet at 40,000 feet." evaluation. I have no problem with moving this Over the last few months we have seen a amendment. From both a business viewpoint situation across this State in which the Beattie and an incentive viewpoint it is the right Labor Government has set out shamelessly to amendment to move. There is no problem with demonise rural communities, in particular respect to the economic impact on the Budget farmers and graziers, by beating up and by or the State. overstating their level of land clearing in this Mr HAMILL: I have made my comments State. It has done that in a number of ways. in relation to the fiscal impact of the The Government has deliberately amendment moved by the member for misinterpreted much of the data that is Moggill. However, I thank the Opposition for its currently available, including the data that is support of the measures which have included available with regard to the number of tree- superannuation as part of the base. It is an clearing permits that have been granted in important reform and one which makes sense, Queensland, which has nothing to do with the given the degree to which superannuation is freehold tree-clearing issue. It has rolled that part of income in this day and age. into figures which it is using as a beat-up. It Question—That Dr Watson's amendment alleges that there is significant panic clearing be agree to—put; and the Committee going on across Queensland. In many cases, divided— nothing could be further from the truth. As I have said over the last couple of days, if AYES, 40—Beanland, Black, Connor, Cooper, something like this is actually happening, then E. Cunningham, Dalgleish, Davidson, Elliott, Feldman, the Premier and the Minister for Natural Gamin, Goss, Grice, Healy, Hobbs, Johnson, Kingston, Knuth, Laming, Lester, Lingard, Resources need look no further than the mirror Littleproud, Malone, Nelson, Paff, Pratt, Prenzler, to see the cause. Quinn, Santoro, Seeney, Sheldon, Simpson, Slack, When we were in Government, we were Springborg, Stephan, Turner, Veivers, Watson, working with primary producers around this Wellington. Tellers: Baumann, Hegarty State to try to put in place some sort of NOES, 40—Beattie, Bligh, Boyle, Braddy, reasonable regime to be able to come to an Bredhauer, Briskey, Clark, J. Cunningham, D'Arcy, arrangement whereby we protected some of Edmond, Elder, Fenlon, Foley, Gibbs, Hamill, the most sensitive areas of vegetation on Hayward, Hollis, Lavarch, Lucas, Mackenroth, freehold land. And by and large, the rural McGrady, Mickel, Mulherin, Musgrove, Nelson-Carr, communities in this State were comfortable Nuttall, Palaszczuk, Pearce, Pitt, Roberts, Robertson, with the approach that was adopted by the Rose, Schwarten, Spence, Struthers, Welford, Wells, then Borbidge Government. We were going Wilson. Tellers: Sullivan, Purcell down the path of putting in place a voluntary The numbers being equal, the Temporary process—a process whereby we took the rural Chairman (Mr Reeves) cast his vote with the communities with us, we took the farmers and Noes. the graziers of this State with us, and we Resolved in the negative. ensured that we treated them with respect and acknowledged that what they had done over Progress reported. the last 15 or 20 years through the operation 6002 Tree-clearing Guidelines 7 Dec 1999 of Landcare had done much to protect some probably far more conciliatory and has a of the sensitive areas that were likely to fall greater understanding of this particular issue. victim to erosion in this State, as well as some We must have an idea of the impact of this on of the higher sloping country, which may also rural properties, their valuations, their have fallen victim to erosion due to land productivity and their viability levels, as well as clearing. Many of those groups put in place the impact on rural jobs and rural communities, their own voluntary guidelines, which were which are very much interlinked to any decision followed very well, and significant gains were that is made by this Government. made on a cooperative basis. Members need only cast their minds back As soon as this Labor Government came a few years to when the Goss Government to power in Queensland, it set about was in power and its negative and adverse deliberately demonising rural producers. There impacts on services in rural communities. Tom is little doubt that, in many cases, those rural Burns, who had some degree of credibility and producers who have five or 10-year tree- respect in rural areas, brought in a system of clearing programs on their freehold properties rural impact— have brought forward those programs. But Mr Littleproud: Not much, though. generally, they have managed the trees on Mr SPRINGBORG: No, not much. their properties in a very responsible way. Nevertheless, he was probably one of the Surely, if we are going to justify some sort better blokes. He was a nice bloke. He put in of legislation that this Government might bring place a system whereby there had to be a into this Parliament tonight or tomorrow or the rural impact statement before these sorts of next day, or if we are to justify a moratorium on decisions were made. Where is that sort of tree clearing in this Parliament, we must have process now? What we are seeing from this some sound basis in fact to justify that and to Government is a process of smoke and vindicate the decision of Government. But we mirrors. I guarantee that for those farmers and have nothing like that, other than a bit of graziers who have bought their properties on hyperbole on the part of the Minister for the understanding that they are able to Natural Resources, who is using dodgy figures responsibly self-manage their own timber, this to justify his position. He is rolling together the will have an impact on their viability and their freehold and leasehold figures and approvals plans. for leasehold land, which is the majority of land Some people have said to me, "We will clearing in this State and which is already compensate you for the value of that particular regulated by his own department. land, which you paid for, minus the capacity of The only way to do this is on a scientific being able to clear the trees, and you can shift basis using the SLATS program—something some of your enterprise up the road." That is which we resourced very well when we were in not a simple thing to do, because many Government, thanks to the actions of the people might not be geared up to do that. honourable member for Warrego, and which They might not be able to shift their tractors, has suffered under this particular Government trucks or whatever a long way. This is all about from budgetary cuts. We need a scientific justifying the decision of the Government. It is basis for this. In the absence of that—if the saying, "Put on hold your plans until such time Government is going to rush into this—then as you have been able to demonstrate that through this motion we are saying that we there is a positive, not net negative, influence should have a moratorium on the introduction of this." of tree-clearing guidelines. What have we seen from the Premier This Government should be able to justify over the past couple of days? He has made its statement that there will be a net benefit to an absolutely scurrilous and outrageous attack the environment. This Government should be on the integrity of people in rural areas—policy able to justify its position by showing that there from 30,000 or 40,000 feet out of the porthole will be no negative impact whatsoever on the of a jet. The Premier is a modern-day Biggles, viability of rural properties and no negative floating around Queensland with telescopic impact whatsoever on the valuation of those and X-ray vision; he can see right across the rural properties. Last week, a number of very State, and can make some sort of unilateral senior valuers from the major rural property decision or assessment that all this smoke houses in this State put into print their across Queensland relates in some way to particular concerns. I know that the Minister for panic land clearing in all instances. Primary Industries—whilst he will be bound to This morning in the House, members vote a certain way on this motion—is very noted that the Minister for Emergency Services much aware of some of those concerns and is and the Minister for Primary Industries were 7 Dec 1999 Tree-clearing Guidelines 6003 somewhat less enthusiastic about that members now, we are not going to cop it one particular assessment than the Premier was minute longer. himself. I think it is probably fair to say that he Look at the muck-up that those opposite has been trying to dig himself out of a hole. He have made in the bush in recent times. The also said from his leather-bound seat 40,000 regional forest agreement is now a can of feet above the ground that he was able to tell worms. If those opposite do not believe me, the difference between lightning strikes and they should go to the Gympie area and talk to burning off, pasture rejuvenation and a whole representatives of local government. This range of other things. I have news for the Government is trying to shut down music Premier: nobody I know uses fire as a means tuition in the bush. Goodness me, what does of clearing virgin timber. It is inefficient. It does this Government think it is coming at. not work. This Government is going to impose tree- Mrs Edmond interjected. clearing guidelines on freehold land. It does Mr SPRINGBORG: How does one burn not care how it will be done and it does not down a 100 year old gum tree? Has the care what hurt it will inflict on bush people. This member ever seen a 100 year old gum tree or is the philosophy of the Labor Party. I simply a 500 year old gum tree? The only time that say to those opposite: to legislate land-clearing fire is an effective management tool is when guidelines on freehold land, or to have a dealing with saplings or seedlings. Otherwise, it moratorium, is a treacherous thing to do. It is is not an effective management tool. And if ill-researched, it is irresponsible, it is the Premier did see any fires relating to land destabilising and it is property devaluing. It clearing out there, they would have been offers a bucketload of uncertainty. This burning stacks that have been there for the Government is guilty of a breach of trust. It is last six, eight, 10 or 12 months and which guilty of betrayal of the bush. have dried out. An owner has to pay hundreds of Also, the Premier cast the notion that this thousands of dollars to freehold a property. was some sort of Russian retreat from the The people who pay that sort of money are Napoleonic advances; that we are going to responsible. They want their land to continue slash and burn and pull back because we are to be productive. They want their land to worried about the invasion from the city and increase in value. These days, farmers and we are worried about what the Premier is going graziers study and practise the best to do. Those people out there might have had management practices possible. To impose some semblance of respect for this particular land-clearing guidelines and restrictions on Government, but I can tell members that that freehold land not only devalues properties but has evaporated, considering what the restricts incentive and stops people from Government has been doing and the way it moving into new technology and has been demonising those people out there developments that are so essential to allowing in the last few days. If the Premier is going to farmers to compete and sell their products, not do these sorts of things, he should at least only in the domestic market in competition have some base knowledge of the difference against imports, but also on world markets. between pasture rejuvenation and fire Because the owner of a property will no management. I ask him to consider that even longer be the boss, it will be the Government before Captain Cook came to Australia, the that dictates how a property will be run. That is Aboriginals used fire as a way of creating new why properties will be so very badly devalued. growth. If this scurrilous activity goes ahead, property Time expired. owners will be subservient to a band of public servants who will come on to their properties Hon. V. P. LESTER (Keppel—NPA) without notice. These public servants will (6.10 p.m.): In seconding this motion, I am invade properties like white ants and will issue calling upon the Government to stop its purge on-the-spot fines and impose court action on of the bush, to stop using the bush as a property owners who they merely think have scapegoat and to buy votes in the city and to crossed over some of the guidelines. stop using the media to try and hype up some sort of feeling that we in the bush act like If those opposite do not believe me, I criminals. suggest they look at some of the agricultural developments in north Queensland. These A Government member interjected. developments have been put on hold and Mr LESTER: That is what The clearing has been halted because it has simply Government is trying to do; it is trying to make been suggested that perhaps mahogany us look like criminals. I will tell Government gliders might live on the properties. There is no 6004 Tree-clearing Guidelines 7 Dec 1999 proof of this, but the property owners' futures and the regional forest agreement. Who has and their bank overdrafts have gone into been out there undermining Tarong? The oblivion. What about property owners who Opposition! Who has been out there have been made— undermining the job security that we gave to Mrs Edmond: I wish my bank overdraft the South Burnett? The National Party! Who would go into oblivion. has been out there undermining the heritage trails? The National Party! Who has been out Mr LESTER: Come on! The Minister there undermining the meetings I have been would not know what she is talking about; she having with farmers? The National Party! cannot even look after hospitals in the bush. Who the heck is she to start interjecting? Do honourable members know why the National Party has been doing this? The Let us consider Mr Beattie when he was reason is that the National Party is only some 40,000 feet in the air and looking at interested in trying to win back votes from One what was going on. The Premier thought he Nation. Let me tell those opposite this: we will was seeing cleared trees being burnt. I have continue to sit down and talk with farmers. No had many phone calls today from surveyors matter how much the National Party hates it who are angry and bewildered. Does Mr and tries to undermine it, we will listen to Beattie not know that the properties he flew farmers because they are great over on his way from Charters Towers to Queenslanders. They have made a significant Brisbane—properties such as Yacamunda, contribution to this State. No matter how the Bulliwah and Scartwater—are pastoral National Party tries to undermine the farmers holdings. Indeed, some of those properties are and the bush, the Labor Government will leasehold; they are not freehold properties at stand by the farmers, we will stand by the bush all. The people involved were burning off dead and we will make sure that the farmers and the grass in anticipation of the summer rains so bush receive a fair go under my Government. that new grass could grow and provide better feed for cattle. That is what running a property That is why I spent this afternoon sitting is all about. I ought to know because I baked down with the farmers and my two Ministers, bread for those people. Rod Welford and Terry Mackenroth. We talked to the farmers about tree-clearing and about I can assure the Premier that those the future. Do honourable members know people are very upset about what is occurring. what those farmers want? They want a future They are also upset at the Government's lack for their kids and for their grandkids. That is of feeling. I simply say to the Premier that this why they want sustainability. They want land Government— management that will protect their farms and Time expired. protect their futures. My Government will stand Hon. P. D. BEATTIE (Brisbane Central— side by side with the farmers as we protect the ALP) (Premier) (6.15 p.m.): I move the sustainability of their land. Let there be no following amendment— doubt about it, we will work with the farmers; that is why I spent the whole afternoon in "That all words after 'calls on the discussion with farmers. Government' be deleted and replaced with— My Government will come down with a consultative approach—a real approach—to 'To ensure fair and consistent tree protect farmers, their children and their clearing controls on leasehold and children's children. That is what this is all freehold tenures in keeping with about. commitments given to the people of Queensland prior to the last State Let me turn to the issue here. The other election, to ensure that rural productivity is day I received a letter from the President of placed on a long-term viable basis and the Senate, Margaret Reid, who wrote— that our unique biodiversity continues to "The Senate notes the alarming rate thrive over much of its original range, and in clearing of native vegetation in further that this House commends the Queensland where every day without Beattie Government for the manner in controls sees another 1,000 hectares which it has consulted extensively with all destroyed with disastrous impacts on stakeholders on this issue.' " biodiversity, increased risk of salinity and This is the most pro-bush Government that other land degradation, and adding to Queensland has seen since Sir Joh. We are Australia's greenhouse gas emissions." out there looking after the bush. Consider the The Senate further acknowledged the heritage trails that we have supported, the Queensland Government's intention to opening of Tarong, the extension of Tarong implement controls on clearing native 7 Dec 1999 Tree-clearing Guidelines 6005 vegetation and called for this to happen as a the first time that the former Premier has done matter of urgency. The Senate has called on that. the Commonwealth Government to give The previous Government also finalised Queensland appropriate financial assistance leasehold guidelines. This Government is so that the clearing controls can be proposing to implement a fair and consistent implemented effectively and quickly. approach to the management of these issues Let there be no doubt about this in this across the State. Nothing can be fairer. What House: Senator Hill and the Senate have been does the Opposition want? More delay, more pursuing, as aggressively as possible for a uncertainty and another smokescreen. It considerable period of time, land-clearing comes up with excuses about something that measures in this State. The coalition comes in the Premier said this week or an economic and here and talks about this issue while its mates social impact the next week. These are all just in Canberra are right behind tree-clearing excuses for inaction. It is the same kind of measures. The Liberal Party and the National inaction for which the Opposition members Party in Canberra are right behind tree-clearing have become renowned in rural Queensland, measures. That is why I received a resolution which is why they were voted out and why One of the Senate— Nation won so many votes. The previous An Opposition member interjected. Government never delivered for rural Queensland. It never, ever gave them the Mr BEATTIE: Those opposite do not like it certainty that they were looking for. because I am exposing their hypocrisy. Senator Hill has been behind this measure Yes, there has been some uncertainty right from the beginning. Have those opposite and, yes, there has been some pre-emptive lifted a finger to get any money for a regional clearing. The Opposition is trying to blame the forest agreement that will protect jobs in the Government for that. This Government has South Burnett? No! consulted with rural industry, as it promised to Today, a National Party Federal Minister is do. We have delivered to rural industry in our running around trying to prevent Queensland State in exactly the way in which we said that getting $100m to subsidise farmers. We are we would. However, for two and a half years, wanting $100m to compensate Queensland the former Government ran them around in farmers. Who is out there opposing it? The circles, led them up the garden path, delivered National Party! Today, a Federal Minister is them no certainty and left the issue up in the opposing it! In this place, the National Party air. and the Liberal Party are trying to prevent When the coalition was in Government for compensation to Queensland farmers. two and a half years, they fiddled. I am going Tonight, I say to Queensland farmers, "We will to help out the members opposite. I am going stand with you." I will fight Senator Hill all the to finish the job that the Opposition failed to way down the line to get a fair deal. I want get done. I am going to give rural industry the $100m for Queensland farmers. I will fight for certainty that they deserve because, to this that. My greatest opposition, and the Government, rural industry is important. To this Government's greatest opposition, is from the Government, rural industry is one of the National Party. Every farmer in this State biggest industries in our State. It stands should know that. alongside tourism, mining and manufacturing Hon. R. J. WELFORD (Everton—ALP) as one of the big industries of our (Minister for Environment and Heritage and State—industries that deserve planning Minister for Natural Resources) (6.20 p.m.): I certainty, industries that deserve to have second the amendment moved by the applied across the State a fair and consistent Premier. In doing so, I want members to be regulatory regime, industries that deserve to absolutely clear about the motion that was have Government leadership and guidance to moved by the Opposition. It is a pathetic, show them how they can achieve long-term stalling tactic, a diversion, a denial of the real economic security built on a foundation of issue—an issue that the Opposition failed to environmental sustainability. deal with when it was in Government, an issue That is why all this year this Government that it knew had to be dealt with and which it has been working with rural industry. That is took on in a half-hearted way when Mr why this afternoon the Premier, the Minister for Borbidge, the then Premier, signed the NHT Local Government and I met with rural industry agreement with the Commonwealth. The leaders. That is why last week and the week former Premier made a commitment to reverse before the Minister for Local Government and I the net loss of vegetation across the State, but met with rural industry. Why? Not because we never delivered on his agreement. That is not take them for granted, as do the Opposition, 6006 Tree-clearing Guidelines 7 Dec 1999 but because we take their concerns seriously. gave a commitment were the Greens. The We want to get an outcome that is good for Government had nothing to do with the rural industry, good for the environment and primary producers, who currently are suffering. good for the long-term future of land-based The Deputy Premier said that he was able industries that depend ultimately for their to distinguish between freehold land and survival on the sustainability and sound land leasehold land. In fact, what occurred was the management of the natural capital—the land normal management, end of year annual resource on which rural industry is built. maintenance burn-off program. For the benefit There are two fundamental principles of the members opposite, I point out that the about our approach—principles that the process involves moisture being present in the Opposition never had the courage to take up. ground, the farmers undertaking a burn-off They are fairness and certainty—an openness and then the grass growing back quickly. That and honesty with rural industry and the other is a sustainable management practice that has stakeholders to work towards a solution that is been in place for many, many years and will fair and provides people with planning be in place for years to come. certainty. Yes, there will be some anxiety, and I refer to the whole tree-clearing debate. there has been some anxiety, as there is in At present, much of the focus has been on the any transition from one set of arrangements to detail, not on what is happening. Is the issue a new set of arrangements. However, unlike greenhouse gas emissions? Is it the Opposition, this Government is going to environmental biodiversity? Is it degradation? finish the job. This Government is going to give Is it salinity? Or is the issue the Federal a new set of arrangements that are fair, that Government? In the short time that I have, I demonstrate that we respond to the needs of will go through quickly those issues. The issue rural industry, and arrangements that is not greenhouse gas emissions, because in recognise that the long-term sustainability and Queensland we create 78 million tonnes of economic security of that industry must be built greenhouse gas emissions with our tree on the sustainability of their natural clearing. Under the Kyoto Protocol of 2010, we capital—the sound management of their land can go to 90 million tonnes. The thickening upon which so many farmers are looking to the process creates 140 million tonnes of Government to give certainty. greenhouse gas credits. The documents are The National Party are out of touch. That available for everyone to see. We are not in is why they take these knee-jerk, cynical, breach of any greenhouse gas emissions. In political cheap shots in motions such as this. fact, 40% of the cleared country will go back to That is why they lost the support of rural regrowth and 60% is regrowth in the first place. Queensland and bequeathed it to the One So the majority of the land will have vegetation Nation Party. The Opposition never responded of some type on it in a very short period. We to the needs of their constituency by giving are not losing that amount of timber cover. In them the certainty that they deserve. many instances, the land is going back to Time expired. regrowth. So the environmental biodiversity is not changing dramatically. In some areas, it Mr HOBBS (Warrego—NPA) (6.25 p.m.): may because the land might be used for "No child will live in poverty." Do members farming, particularly in cane-growing areas. remember that statement by Bob Hawke? Do honourable members also remember "Lock, A little while ago, the Premier talked about stock and barrel", by Mike Ahern; "Primary sustainable development. Is he saying that producers breeding dingoes for profit", by Rod those practices are not sustainable? In most Welford; "Primary producers' wives driving road cases, they are. In some few cases, the trains to town to rort the diesel fuel rebate", by practices may not be correct but, under a David Hamill; "In December, fires seen at normal land management program, such 30,000 feet from Brisbane to Charters Towers practices could be corrected. In relation to as evidence of panic tree clearing", by Peter salinity, no evidence at all has been given to Beattie, 1999— this House that salinity has been or will be a problem in Queensland. We are not saying Mr Springborg: Biggles. that we are not cautious about the salinity Mr HOBBS: Yes, that is about it. We are issue; we are very aware that we do not want seeing an absolutely blatant attempt by this salinity to occur. Much has been said about Government to bring in tree-clearing Robert Hill and the Federal Government guidelines, according to this amendment, forcing the State Government to do this. We "along with commitments given to the people drafted the agreement and the previous of Queensland prior to the last State election". Premier signed it. There is room to move in The only people to whom the Government that document. It is wrong for anyone to say 7 Dec 1999 Tree-clearing Guidelines 6007 that one has to put in hard and fast rules to affect the National Party's consistency, yet comply with the Federal Government when in Government the National Party protocols. That is wrong. ignored them. Having listened to the previous Mr Welford: So you were deceiving the speaker, it is obvious that the former Federal Government, were you? Government ignored its own constituency and deceived the Federal Government in the same Mr HOBBS: Let me put it this way: we breath. wrote the document and we put in enough room to move. That can be done. The Minister The regional forest agreement was is fiddling the figures. He said that there is only another issue that the National Party ignored 18% regrowth when, in fact, in my time as because it was too hard. It was left for this Minister there was 60% to 70% regrowth. Even Government to resolve. This Government the permits are in the 50% to 60% range, so came up with a resolution by negotiating with how come they are going back to 18%? The the industry, the conservation movement and Minister has been manipulating the figures. the communities involved. We have achieved an outcome that all the interest groups Mr Welford: I didn't say 18%. support. If I am wrong, the people of Kingaroy Mr HOBBS: It says so in that document. are bad judges. The people of Kingaroy, That is a significant amount. There is no including supporters of those opposite, came reason that we cannot put in place a voluntary to me and said, "Make sure you legislate for code of practice that provides the flexibility that this while you are in Government, because if is required under the Federal guidelines. you lose, and we do not expect you to, these Presently, butcher shops, abattoirs and people will come in and overturn it. We have numerous other organisations use self listened to the Leader of the Opposition and assessment. We can do that in the same way. the member for Crows Nest and we know they It will not cost what the Minister claims. He has will overturn it. We want the security, the plucked the figure of $120m out of the air, and certainty and the jobs in the communities." that is not an insignificant figure. Those are the words of the constituency of Time expired. members opposite. That was not said by our constituency. We have given those people a Hon. J. P. ELDER (Capalaba—ALP) good outcome. We have given them surety of (Deputy Premier and Minister for State timber supply for 25 years, 425,000 hectares Development and Minister for Trade) of land will become parkland and we have (6.30 p.m.): The biggest difference between looked after regional mills and communities. this side of the House and those opposite is that we address the hard issues. We take on The meat industry was also too tough for the hard issues and we achieve outcomes. If those opposite to deal with because it involved anyone needed an example of why this issue closing abattoirs in areas where the coalition went nowhere over the years of National Party knew One Nation would take it to task and Governments, particularly following the coming politically cut the legs from underneath it. The to power of the Borbidge Government, they former Government released a report that have just heard it. Could anyone make sense stated that 17 abattoirs would close in regional out of the beginning of the speech of the Queensland and 5,000 jobs would be lost. A member for Warrego? I hope that Hansard couple of those abattoirs were in our can translate it for the understanding of the consistency, but mostly they were located in members of Parliament. That speech was a the constituency of members opposite. demonstration of why this issue went nowhere Through the efforts of the Minister for Primary under the coalition. I am sure that no-one, not Industries and myself, this Government even members of the National Party developed a $20m package that has resulted constituency, could make sense out of it. in regrowth in that industry. We have seen a regrowth in abattoirs in Charleville, Wallangarra It always intrigues me that the people and Toowoomba. The Danpork project was a whom the National Party, with its lack of action Goss Government project, but it fell in a heap on the major issues and major policies, hurt when the coalition came to power. It got most are its own people—the people in the bogged down and went nowhere, even though bush. All of the big issues that this it was an important project for the former Government has had to deal with in its first 17 Government's constituency. This Government months in office impact on the bush. Those has cleared the blockages and brought the are the issues that the former Government project to fruition. ignored. Those issues affect the National Party's own constituency, and it ignored them The issues of native title and mining and treated them with contempt. Sustainable leases, and the fisheries issues that the land use and farm practices are issues that Minister for Primary Industries is dealing with 6008 Tree-clearing Guidelines 7 Dec 1999 are all policy issues that the coalition did not for the past 150 years. Their skills and have the intellectual depth to do anything managerial practices are based on experience, about. It lacked the ticker to do anything about education and know-how. They are far more them. knowledgable than anyone on the other side If members opposite want to play a of the House. The Government should leave positive role when it comes to the issue of tree them alone and let them get on with it. The clearing, they should challenge the Federal farmers have used fire for 150 to 200 years Government to make a financial contribution to and the Aboriginals used it for 40,000 to compensate their constituency. It is the Labor 50,000 years before that, yet the Government Government that is advocating the case for is trying to tell them how to run their compensation for those people. Where are businesses and manage their land. That is members opposite? They have vacated the absolutely beyond belief. The Government is field. They have walked away from their own creating anxiety for the people of the bush, constituency. As the Premier has said, it is no who have had enough of the Government's wonder that those people ask us to resolve constant interference. Now the Government major policy issues and it is no wonder that wants to impose tree-clearing guidelines on they do not go through the Opposition doors freehold land, despite the fact that the owners any more. The reason is that they do not trust of that land know how to manage it. the Opposition any more, because it cannot The Government will put in bureaucrats deliver on the most critical and important and tin gods to tell the people of the bush how issues in the State. Members opposite do not to manage their land. We all know how those represent their constituents by taking up those people operate. They will tell individual issues with their Federal colleagues. That is property owners how to run their places, but the biggest problem that members opposite they have no experience whatsoever. The have. It is the reason that they are in Government wants to impose rules and Opposition and it is the reason that they will guidelines which are grossly unfair. That is an stay in Opposition. absolute slap in the face and an insult to those Time expired. people and their experience. Hon. T. R. COOPER (Crows Nest—NPA) I have personal experience of such (6.35 p.m.): It is sad that this debate on tree issues. In 1960-61, I had a green block at clearing has to take place, because all one Wallumbilla. Thirty-eight years later, that place hears from speakers opposite is their absolute is something of which I can be proud. It is ignorance of the topic. The fact is that they absolutely parklike. The timber belts and the have had no experience whatsoever in issues creeks are well looked after. It is a very related to tree clearing or the bush. The productive place. That was achieved through Government solves problems such as the RFA hard work, know-how and experience. I learnt by bringing in the union heavies and making from the successes and failures of others. I am people sign so-called agreements that they not alone in saying that. My neighbours and, cannot live with. The people now know that indeed, people across the State have learnt they cannot live with those agreements, which how to manage the land in that way. Now, the are starting to come unstuck. Members Government is trying to impose rules on opposite keep saying that the RFA issue is people who already know how to manage their solved, but it is not. The people are starting to land. They simply do not need or want the see through the Government. expertise of those on the other side of the The Government is trying to con the House. farmers. It has used the Greens, Imogen I wish the Premier would try to understand Zethoven and Aila Keto. As far as the rural the damage that will be inflicted on the people people are concerned, they are nothing but of the bush through these impositions. They parasites. If anyone sticks up for the rural have had enough impositions. From 1990-91 people, we do. We know the Government is onwards, they have been to hell and back trying to con them, just as it tried to con those through drought and collapses in commodity involved in the RFA debate. prices. Now the Government wants to impose A Government member interjected. even more difficulties on them. This is the last thing they need. There are plenty of useful Mr Springborg: Talk to them. things that the Government could do, instead Mr COOPER: We talk to them, all right. I of making life harder for these people. They appeal to those opposite to get off the backs are productive and they know, as I know—I of the rural people. I appeal to the have done it—that we must leave the land Government to leave them alone to manage better than when we found it. That is my job; their land as they have done very productively the land was bequeathed to me on the 7 Dec 1999 Tree-clearing Guidelines 6009 understanding that I would not destroy it. If I honourable members opposite will know what did do that, that land would no longer be this Government is doing. For the sugar productive. I want that country to be industry, we have delivered new legislation to productive. It would not be productive if I set the framework for the future of abused it. Ninety-nine per cent of people on Queensland's $4.7 billion sugar industry and the land understand and want that. That is enhanced flexibility within the industry by why we are becoming better managers. We do retaining the single desk and giving greater not need to have legislation imposed on us. control to local growers and millers to manage We have done without legislation in the past. their own affairs. The Government also Why does the Government suddenly want to announced a $1m Wet Tropics Sugarcane impose legislation? That is for one reason Solutions Project, which allows DPI scientists to only—to satisfy the Greens. The Government work directly with growers and industry would have them interfere in the operations of agencies to address the far-north region's productive people who simply do not need or declining sugar production. want their so-called expertise. Most of it is In terms of climate research, this based on scaremongering in the media and Government has progressed the world-leading trumped up television programs— forecasting regime, the Queensland Centre for Time expired. Climate Applications, and thus generated tens of millions in extra income right across the Hon. H. PALASZCZUK (Inala—ALP) State. Also, we are investigating the potential (Minister for Primary Industries) (6.40 p.m.): In use of satellite technology for improved climate rising to support the Government's amended forecasting, which is already delivering motion, I wish to take the time to highlight to productivity gains and boosting sustainable the House the achievements of our management practices for our farmers. This Government in the area of primary industries. Government is also committed to the In doing so, I will be responding to a taunt sustainability of our Queensland's fisheries, made by the honourable member for Crows which is in the interests of all users of fisheries Nest, who asked: what useful things has the and the wider community. Government done for primary producers in Queensland? Therefore, I intend to highlight Mr HOBBS: I rise to a point of order. This some of the great achievements of this is totally irrelevant to the issue. Fishing—that is Government in the area of primary industries. not tree clearing. Earlier today I launched the Department Mr SPEAKER: Order! I will decide that. of Primary Industries new Agency for Food and Mr PALASZCZUK: Opposition members Fibre Sciences. As per the Government's are knockers and whingers. They never like to election commitment, the Agency for Food hear anything positive being done for our and Fibre Sciences will unite the research primary producers. efforts of 1,400 DPI staff working in areas as State Cabinet also approved an in- diverse as biotechnology and climate possession limit on prawns taken by forecasting through to farming systems. This unlicensed fishers. It imposed a 10 litre bucket year the agency will have a budget of about limit for people fishing on Moreton Bay. Last $100m, which comes from Government and month I announced that this summer more industry. The agency will deliver for than 810,000 fingerlings would be released in Queensland and for future generations. Firstly, 47 Queensland streams and dams across the I inform the House that, by the year 2010, State under the State Government's Queensland food and fibre industries will earn Freshwater Recreational Fishing Enhancement $32 billion in gross revenue. That is a very Program. This Government is also delivering significant increase on today's figure of $12 security to the cypress pine timber industry— billion. Secondly, by the year 2010, more than one of the most decentralised timber industries one fifth of Queensland's total work force will in the world. The cypress pine industry already be employed in our food and fibre industries. earns $30m per annum for the State and is a That is a total of 500,000 jobs—almost twice major employer in western Queensland. In the number that we have today. terms of food safety, this Government is set to This Government is progressing primary become a national leader in food safety for the industries in this State. Industry is behind us three high-risk animal protein sectors—meat, and we are working together, as partners in dairy and seafood. Queensland will lead the progress, for a strong future for the food and field following Cabinet's approval of a proposal fibre sectors. It would be impossible for me to for the establishment of a new agrifood detail all of the achievements, but I wish to authority in this State. The Government is also place on record some of them so that the ever vigilant to the threat of pests and 6010 Tree-clearing Guidelines 7 Dec 1999 diseases. Along with industry, the Government than the one we just witnessed from the has implemented a number of protective Minister for Primary Industries. He is an measures for the Queensland sugar industry embarrassment not only to his party but also following the outbreak of sugarcane smut in to the primary industries he purports to Western Australia last year. Meanwhile, represent. Australia's most successful exotic plant pest It is only reasonable that those studies campaign reached a climax in May with the should determine the impacts of these declaration of the eradication of papaya fruit fly mandatory development restrictions on the in far-north Queensland. This Government has environment, rural freehold property values, also overseen a $5.3m upgrade of the DPI's property productivity and viability and, most Tick Fever Research Centre at Wacol, which importantly, rural jobs, rural communities and was officially opened in August. It begins a the people who live there. They are important, new era in Queensland's century-old campaign too. The people of rural Queensland—the against tick fever, which costs the State's land-holders and those who live in livestock industries up to $28m per year. communities that have a primary production- Opposition members interjected. based economy—will have to live with Mr PALASZCZUK: Opposition members whatever is decided for a long time to come. do not like good news. This is all good news The Green fanatics and the Left Wing of the and there will be more good news coming. The Labor Party will go on to another issue next Government has established an information week. The decision will probably give them a and inspection centre at Coen, on the Cape warm inner glow for a couple of days, but they York Peninsula, that has become the front-line will not otherwise be affected—secure and defence in the State's ongoing war against remote, as they no doubt are, in their exotic animal pests and diseases. comfortable urban existence. In conclusion, the honourable member for The debate about this issue has been Callide should listen and learn from what this dominated by hysterical emotive claims from Government is doing. This morning I listened the Left Wing of the Labor Party. The issue to the honourable member for Callide has been deliberately clouded by a speaking about the importance of primary propaganda campaign that has set out to industries in this State. He claimed that this demonise and vilify farmers and rural land- sector is very important to his electorate. I holders across the State. In recent months we would like to know how he can explain to his have seen one of the most cynical and constituents that, of all the 89 members of this dishonest propaganda campaigns ever House, he has made fewer than a dozen mounted in Queensland politics. It is the type representations to me since I became the of cynical and dishonest propaganda that I Minister for Primary Industries 17 months ago. hope never to see again in Queensland Where is his interest in primary industries? The politics. honourable member for Callide is all huff and It has been a propaganda campaign that, puff. If, as expected, he does join the front with the cooperation of the urban media, bench this week, it will be more reflective on hungry for cheap sensationalism, has set out the sheer dearth of talent in the coalition than to demonise the people of rural Queensland on the member's ability. I hope he can as environmental vandals; as irresponsible respond to me directly about the fact that he resource managers intent on destroying the has made fewer than one dozen very land that sustains them; almost as representations to me over the past 17 kindergarten children not able to take months. responsibility for what they are doing. The Mr SEENEY (Callide—NPA) (6.47 p.m.): I current emotive, highly charged environment is rise to lend my support to the motion moved not one conducive to sensible decision by the member for Warwick calling for the making. There needs to be a level-headed completion of the independent economic and and balanced approach to this issue, which social impact studies before the introduction of certainly will have major impacts on rural land- mandatory tree-clearing restrictions on freehold holders across the State and the businesses land. That is the motion we are debating. It is they run. These restrictions will certainly have a measure of their embarrassment over their major impacts on the productivity and the record on this issue that not one Government viability of rural enterprises. Therefore, they will member spoke to the motion. Speaking of inevitably affect capital values. These embarrassment, I do not think I have seen a restrictions will inevitably affect jobs in rural more embarrassing contribution to a debate in areas and the viability of rural communities. It this House in the time that I have been here cannot be reasonably argued otherwise. 7 Dec 1999 Tree-clearing Guidelines 6011

It would seem reasonable to any fair community. It takes courage to do something thinking person that the Queensland about an issue that has been ignored by Government should determine what those successive Governments. This Government impacts are likely to be before they make a has the courage to get on with the job and decision that will affect the livelihoods of many come up with the best outcome for all parties. land-holders, the people they employ and the In the interests of future Queenslanders, tree rural communities that they depend on. It clearing is an issue that requires a would seem reasonable to determine what the commonsense approach by all parties— cost of this ideologically driven proposal is landowners, environmentalists, the public and going to be before the decisions are made. political parties from both sides of the House. What is the outcome in terms of the economic I do not think anyone on this side of the and social costs? It would seem reasonable to House doubts that there has been an quantify what the benefits are likely to be and uncertainty surrounding the guidelines that has to whom those benefits are likely to accrue seen some farmers continue to clear land in before rushing headlong into what appears to anticipation of increased restriction. The be a simplistic solution. proposed reforms will involve new controls over The State Government, the Premier and freehold land. Perhaps there will be tighter more particularly the Minister for Natural restrictions, but I do not accept that the answer Resources have done none of those things to the yet unannounced proposed changes is that commonsense would dictate as fair and indiscriminate clearing—panic clearing that can reasonable. Instead, they have sought to potentially have a significant impact on the dishonestly demonise the people who have long-term viability of a property. the most to lose and very little to gain from I cannot recall ever hearing the Premier or their ideologically driven agenda. They have any Minister of the Government saying that engineered a strategy to set rural land-holders tree clearing would be forever banned. My up as scapegoats, completely ignoring and understanding is that, yes, as a Government belittling the knowledge and the skills they representing the people of this State we will have built up over generations of land expect tree clearing to be carried out in a way management. The Premier has demonstrated that gets right the balance between clearing his contempt for those people with his nose indiscriminately, disregarding the long-term pressed against the window of the sustainability of the land, or commonsense Government jet 40,000 feet in the air setting clearing using approved guidelines to allow for himself up as an expert on resource the expansion of industry that is sustainable management issues. and, at the same time, ensures that local Instead of meaningful involvement in a ecosystems survive and that nature's own scientifically based process that is balanced environmental checks and balances are and objective, rural land-holders have been respected. There are lessons to be learnt from subject to a continual flow of ideological the past that should be heeded immediately rubbish that has no practical focus. Such an by landowners who are out there clearing large approach serves only to cause alarm in rural areas simply to beat the proposed changes. Queensland. Tragically, in too many cases it The hypocrisy of the people sitting on the brings about the opposite result to what other side of the House never ceases to responsible stakeholders are trying to achieve. amaze me. When in Government, the National It is time to put an end to the hysteria. It is Party recognised that the number of trees lost time to recognise the great wealth of expertise through clearing greatly outstripped those and experience that exists in resource planted, and hence Queensland was under management both within the rural community strong pressure to act. In 1997 the then and within the Department of Natural National Party Government signed a Federal Resources. It is time for a scientifically based agreement under the Natural Heritage Trust approach in order to achieve acceptable program requiring that by June 2001 as many outcomes. trees had to be planted as were cut down. The Mr PEARCE (Fitzroy—ALP) (6.52 p.m.): agreement specifically required new controls As elected representatives of the people of on clearing, but the Nationals, now in Queensland, we have obligations to be Opposition, strongly opposed that as an environmentally conscious of the day-to-day affront to the sacrosanctity of private property. activities of our lifestyles that impact on our What hypocrisy! land, our waterways, our oceans and the air We should be taking a few things into that we breathe. The tree-clearing issue is one consideration in this debate. I quote from an that will always cause division in the article in the Sydney Morning Herald written by 6012 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

Greg Roberts, who talked about an economist, That puts Mr Hobbs' argument to sleep Dr John Rolfe. The article states— forever. "In a recent study, Rolfe concludes Time expired. that while productivity is boosted within a Question—That the amendment be few years of clearing, it gradually agreed to—put; and the House divided— declines." AYES, 41—Bligh, Boyle, Braddy, Bredhauer, Those opposite should know that. The article Briskey, Clark, J. Cunningham, D'Arcy, Edmond, goes on to state— Elder, Fenlon, Foley, Gibbs, Hamill, Hayward, "In the two years to 1995, when Lavarch, Lucas, Mackenroth, McGrady, Mickel, Mulherin, Musgrove, Nelson-Carr, Nuttall, hundreds of thousands of hectares were Palaszczuk, Pearce, Pitt, Reeves, Reynolds, Roberts, cleared, beef production statewide Robertson, Rose, Schwarten, Spence, Struthers, dropped from 750,000 tonnes a year to Welford, Wellington, Wells, Wilson. Tellers: Sullivan, 650,000 tonnes." Purcell Yes, I know that we have to take into NOES, 39—Beanland, Black, Connor, Cooper, consideration the drought, but there was only E. Cunningham, Dalgleish, Davidson, Elliott, Feldman, a slight increase. The article goes on to state— Gamin, Goss, Grice, Healy, Hobbs, Johnson, Kingston, Knuth, Laming, Lester, Lingard, "Rolfe says: 'If you look at other Littleproud, Malone, Nelson, Paff, Pratt, Prenzler, shires where there has been much less Quinn, Santoro, Seeney, Sheldon, Simpson, Slack, clearing, there is not much difference.'" Springborg, Stephan, Turner, Veivers, Watson. That is, in the productivity levels. Guess what? Tellers: Baumann, Hegarty The article goes on to state— Resolved in the affirmative. "Rolfe doubles as a farmer, running Question—That the motion as amended an 18,000-hectare cattle property, Broken be agreed to—put; and the House divided— Dray, near Springsure, south of Clermont. AYES, 41—Bligh, Boyle, Braddy, Bredhauer, He intends to leave the 40 per cent Briskey, Clark, J. Cunningham, D'Arcy, Edmond, of the property still in its natural state." Elder, Fenlon, Foley, Gibbs, Hamill, Hayward, Lavarch, Lucas, Mackenroth, McGrady, Mickel, What are those opposite saying? That he is a Mulherin, Musgrove, Nelson-Carr, Nuttall, fool because he has a head on his shoulders, Palaszczuk, Pearce, Pitt, Reeves, Reynolds, Roberts, he has a little bit of commonsense and he is Robertson, Rose, Schwarten, Spence, Struthers, doing the right thing? He is keeping the Welford, Wellington, Wells, Wilson. Tellers: Sullivan, balance right. The article goes on to state— Purcell "Adam Clark, who runs cattle on two NOES, 39—Beanland, Black, Connor, Cooper, properties near Taroom, south-west of E. Cunningham, Dalgleish, Davidson, Elliott, Feldman, Springsure, says it is in farmers' long-term Gamin, Goss, Grice, Healy, Hobbs, Johnson, interests to retain vegetation because it Kingston, Knuth, Laming, Lester, Lingard, Littleproud, Malone, Nelson, Paff, Pratt, Prenzler, helps protect pasture from the elements, Quinn, Santoro, Seeney, Sheldon, Simpson, Slack, and is an insurance against salinity." Springborg, Stephan, Turner, Veivers, Watson. Is that man a fool, too? That is what those Tellers: Baumann, Hegarty opposite are trying to say those people are. Resolved in the affirmative. The article goes on to state— Sitting suspended from 7.06 p.m. to "Salinity is again in the headlines, 8.30 p.m. with the Murray-Darling Basin Authority's salinity audit, released last week, painting a grim picture of the problems posed by REVENUE LAWS AMENDMENT BILL rising salt levels in soil and water Resumption of Committee nationwide. Resumed on clause 9 (see p. 6001) Queensland has been largely spared these woes, in part because it does not Dr WATSON (8.30 p.m.): I just want to have the southern States' long history of correct one thing. The Treasurer made a bit of land clearing. a gratuitous remark at the end of his last contribution. Nothing I have said tonight, nor This is changing, the audit says, with any actions I have taken, indicates that the between 10,000 and 20,000 hectares of Opposition necessarily supports the inclusion Queensland's land identified as being of superannuation in the base. I said that I salt-affected and a 'significant' increase was not going to divide on the second reading likely in salinity outbreaks, which may hit because there were aspects of the Bill we agricultural productivity." supported, which were the amendment to the 7 Dec 1999 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 6013

Land Act 1915 and the amendment to the amendment relates to clause 13 and the Stamp Act 1894, and that we would propose second relates to clause 16. The remarks I some amendments in Committee with respect make now in relation to amendment No. 1 are to the payroll tax changes, which we were not equally applicable to amendment No. 2. supporting. We could have picked a number of In the State Budget we announced a new those but we picked just one, that is, the rates. exemption from conveyance stamp duty to be I said that if they were not accepted, we would provided for transfers of shares or rights in then oppose the third reading. I said that in my respect of shares in Queensland incorporated speech at the second-reading stage, and that companies on approved foreign exchanges to is what we propose to do. Not voting against non-residents. The provision within the Bill the second reading does not imply that we referred to the transfer to be recorded on the necessarily accepted those amendments. overseas branch register. Upon reflection, it Mr HAMILL: I thank the Leader of the has been considered by the Government that Liberal Party for that clarification. I was it is more desirable to give a variety of mistaken. When there was no dissent from opportunities to Queensland companies so clause 8 being accepted as part of the Bill I that they may avail themselves of this assumed that the Opposition was supportive opportunity to reduce the costs of their capital of clause 8. I now understand that the raising. Opposition intends to divide the Chamber Consequently, this amendment expands twice more before the Bill is passed this that provision of overseas branch registers to evening. That is, of course, if we have the include other share registry arrangements such numbers. Let us test the water. as subregisters. Nevertheless, we are Question—That clause 9, as read, stand maintaining the requirement for a branch part of the Bill—put; and the Committee register. Providing a variety of opportunities for divided— companies would therefore reduce the AYES, 38—Boyle, Braddy, Bredhauer, Briskey, administration costs those companies would Clark, J. Cunningham, Edmond, Fenlon, Foley, incur in seeking to obtain the exemption. I Gibbs, Hamill, Hayward, Hollis, Lavarch, Lucas, commend the amendment to the Committee. Mackenroth, McGrady, Mickel, Mulherin, Musgrove, Amendment agreed to. Nelson-Carr, Nuttall, Palaszczuk, Pearce, Pitt, Reeves, Reynolds, Roberts, Robertson, Rose, Clause 13, as amended, agreed to. Schwarten, Spence, Struthers, Welford, Wells, Clauses 14 and 15, as read, agreed to. Wilson. Tellers: Sullivan, Purcell Clause 16— NOES, 38—Beanland, Black, Connor, Cooper, E. Cunningham, Dalgleish, Davidson, Elliott, Feldman, Mr HAMILL (8.41 p.m.): I move the Gamin, Goss, Grice, Healy, Hobbs, Johnson, following amendment— Kingston, Knuth, Laming, Lester, Lingard, "At page 13, lines 4 to 6— Littleproud, Malone, Nelson, Paff, Pratt, Prenzler, Quinn, Santoro, Seeney, Sheldon, Simpson, omit, insert— Springborg, Turner, Veivers, Watson, Wellington. '(c) the share or right is recorded on an Tellers: Baumann, Stephan overseas register of legal or The numbers being equal, the Chairman beneficial title; and cast his vote with the Ayes. (d) the transfer is to be recorded on the Resolved in the affirmative. overseas register.'." Clauses 10 to 12, as read, agreed to. Amendment agreed to. Clause 13— Clause 16, as amended, agreed to. Mr HAMILL (8.39 p.m.): I move the Clauses 17 and 18, as read, agreed to. following amendment— Bill reported, with amendments. "At page 10, lines 5 to 7— omit, insert— Third Reading '(c) the share or right is recorded on an Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) overseas register of legal or (Treasurer) (8.43 p.m.), by leave: I move— beneficial title; and "That the Bill be now read a third (d) the transfer is to be recorded on the time." overseas register.'." Dr WATSON (Moggill—LP) (Leader of the Government amendments Nos 1 and 2 Liberal Party) (8.44 p.m.): As I indicated are identical in their effect. The first previously, the Opposition will be opposing the 6014 Revenue Laws Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999 third reading of the Bill because of the reduce costs to continue to survive, the implications for payroll tax. During my speech most logical way is to reduce the on the second reading of the Bill, I mentioned workforce." that the member for Hinchinbrook had made I think that really sums up the issues that representations to me and had referred to me affect a whole range of businesses—even a number of his constituents' concerns. The small businesses—across this State. They will member has just handed me a letter from one react to this particular increase by reducing of his constituents which I think sums up the their investment and their employment, and for issue and why the Opposition is opposing it that reason the Opposition will be opposing and why businesses throughout Queensland the third reading of the Bill. are appalled by what the Government is doing. The letter states— Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) (Treasurer) (8.46 p.m.): In responding to the "Dear Sir/Madam honourable member, I make these points. We have received the attached letter Queensland has the lowest rates of payroll tax of advice from our accountants in respect anywhere in the nation. In fact, this legislation to changes in the Payroll Tax Legislation will ensure that the reduced rates of payroll tax which if correct we find most disturbing." lead Australia. Furthermore, Queensland has That was the impact of this change on their the highest threshold in respect to the particular firm. The letter continues— application of payroll tax. We make no apology for that. We are proud of that fact. Thirdly, we "By way of background we are major believed that, under the national tax reform employers in the Tully area with a current agenda of the Commonwealth, there may well workforce of between 150 and 200. Our have been some opportunity to remove payroll main activity is the growing of bananas for tax. We made submissions that we believed Australian consumption, a very labour that a sharing of the income tax base was a intensive industry. We also grow more equitable way of raising revenue for the sugarcane with a total of 65 000 tonnes States. That view was not shared by the harvested this season and have a fat Commonwealth, although the Commonwealth cattle operation running an average of spent some considerable time suggesting to a 1000 head of cattle. variety of employers that the abolition of As primary producers we are price payroll tax may be one of the outcomes of the takers rather than price fixers. As a result tax reform agenda. That was never to be the we have no way of passing on increases case. It was never on the Commonwealth's in operating costs to the consumers, agenda. Small businesses were duped in that market forces determine the price of our regard, just as they were duped about the cost produce. of the GST. But we are determined to maintain Queensland's competitive tax advantage. This The majority of banana growers and Bill does that. sugar cane farmers are below the payroll tax threshold and do not pay payroll tax Question—That the Bill be now read a as a result. Because we have chosen to third time—put; and the House divided— remain as a family operation, we are in AYES, 37—Boyle, Braddy, Bredhauer, Briskey, effect unfairly penalised for remaining as Clark, J. Cunningham, D'Arcy, Edmond, Fenlon, a large family group. There are now seven Foley, Gibbs, Hamill, Hayward, Lavarch, Lucas, male family members and their respective Mackenroth, McGrady, Mickel, Mulherin, Musgrove, Nelson-Carr, Nuttall, Palaszczuk, Pearce, Pitt, wives operating the farms. This results in Reeves, Reynolds, Roberts, Robertson, Rose, a payroll considerably above the threshold Schwarten, Spence, Struthers, Welford, Wells. for payroll tax and consequently the family Tellers: Sullivan, Purcell incurs the cost of payroll tax, which does NOES, 37—Beanland, Black, Connor, Cooper, not affect the majority of other growers. E. Cunningham, Dalgleish, Davidson, Elliott, Feldman, We paid over $200,000.00 in payroll tax Gamin, Goss, Healy, Hobbs, Johnson, Kingston, in the year ending 30 June 1999. Knuth, Laming, Lester, Lingard, Littleproud, Malone, We pride ourselves in being fair to Nelson, Paff, Pratt, Prenzler, Quinn, Santoro, our employees and even when we have Seeney, Sheldon, Simpson, Springborg, Turner, suffered significant crop losses only Veivers, Watson, Wellington. Tellers: Baumann, Stephan reduce our permanent workforce as a very last resort. The numbers being equal, Mr Speaker cast his vote with the Ayes. Payroll tax increases make it very difficult to continue to do this, as we must Resolved in the affirmative. 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6015

FORESTRY AMENDMENT BILL Queensland Department of Primary Industries Second Reading management restrictions which are not maximising cattle or timber production, to the Resumed from 3 December (see disadvantage of the national estate. Further, p. 5926). those at the meeting asked that they be Dr KINGSTON (Maryborough—IND) involved in the development of self-regulating (8.52 p.m.): In his second-reading speech the codes of practice. The SGP holders asked for Minister said that the RFA will ensure job consultation. The receipt of their submission security. Let us have a look at another facet of was acknowledged but, despite further this industry. For many years, forestry reserves attempts to establish dialogue, they have have been leased to graziers for grazing a been ignored. So much for consultation! defined number of cattle. These graziers have These families spend almost every day on acted as unpaid caretakers for the Department their SGP land. The health and productivity of of Primary Industries (Forestry) in what was a that leased land has a direct impact on the synergistic relationship. future welfare of their families, so they do not I had a forestry lease for many years. My abuse it. The uncertain future of the SGP's, men were there almost every day. We and concern for the timberworkers, caused a maintained roads, crossings, fences, controlled petition of 806 signatures from the residents of feral animals and weeds and paid rates. Wide Bay to be presented to this House on 10 Currently, these SGP holders do not know if June 1999. I ask: who listened? Who they will be in business in the future. There are responded? Nobody! 115 SGP holders within the Maryborough Independently, the Gaeta and District forestry district alone. What is obviously not Progress and Landcare Association presented understood is that many of these family a similar submission to the Government. businesses own a small area of freehold land Additionally, the high range leaseholders and have a large area of forestry lease. As an centred at Kilcoy—supported by the Kilcoy example, one Maryborough SGP holder owns Shire Council, the Esk Shire Council, the some 200 acres of freehold land and relies on Kilkivan Shire Council, Agforce and the Local 40,000 acres of SGP land. Government Association of Queensland— In general, if these SGP holders lose made submissions and asked for further secure access to their forestry leases, they will consultation. They stressed the flow-on effects lose critical mass and, thus, viability. So much within their communities. Meanwhile, the for jobs! SGPs have been regarded as having Premier and the Deputy Premier were adequate security for them to be traded. somehow extracting the backbone from the Recently, some SGPs sold for around $500 QTB executive—two dedicated and strong per beast area. I ask: is the Government going personalities. Obviously, the opinions of rural to compensate the current lessees for loss of shires counted for nought. Effectively, they their leases, their viability and, in many were disfranchised. instances, the investment of many years of The Friends of Jimna and Connondale family labour? Range Committee responded to the paper The Maryborough district forest SGP titled A Directions Report Towards a South- holders, who lease 510,000 hectares, met on East Queensland RFA and associated 15 June and on 17 June wrote to the documents with a submission which is cynically chairman of the SEQRFA CRA unit and, unfortunately, accurately predictive of the enunciating nine points concerning the situation today. Among the points they made payment of rates by SGP holders as shire are the following. income, the proven benefits of silviculture, the Firstly, one of the JANIS provisions— progressive reduction in carrying capacity values protected by prescription—appears to caused by Department of Primary Industries have been ignored in the consideration of (Forestry) restrictions on weed control and management. The second point was as burning, the increased fire risk and so on. follows— This SGP meeting unanimously adopted "Since practically all the State forests two recommendations to the RFA CRA unit. have been logged once, and much of the Those motions essentially said, firstly, that area given silviculture treatment, and are secure grazing access should be maintained still considered suitable for inclusion in a with minimal restrictions except for the already CAR system, there is no argument put accepted responsibility to enhance the forward as to why State forests cannot national estate and, secondly, that dismay was continue to be managed for forest expressed at the insensitive and inflexible products under a prescription system." 6016 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

Sadly, this is so reminiscent of Fraser Island. plantation proposals to have plantation The third point is— hardwood ready to replace the current harvest "This prescription approach would from State Forest reserves stated categorically allow for responsible forest management that currently QDPI was eight years away from with a continuation of employment having the proven technology to undertake the opportunities in forest management, responsible establishment of hardwood logging and processing industries—within plantations. a CAR reserve system. Such prescriptions The RFA backbench committee visited would only be an extension of the current Kilcoy and Maryborough, but did not inspect codes of practice." the variety trials and the results of The fourth point is as follows— silviculture—impressive stands of timber nurtured by graziers practising silviculture and, "There is no evidence that past lately, habitat retention. The land owned by logging or silvicultural treatment history these graziers is producing four times more has been taken into account in the sawlogs than forestry country just through the development of any of the scenarios fence. Some families have been doing this for proposed. Scientific studies in the three generations, and their timber production Conondale Range forests have found that is increasing. there is no significant difference in the fauna in logged and unlogged forest I have worked with farmers, graziers and areas. It was also found that the effects of timbermen all my life. I am acutely aware of logging are short term with a very small the accumulated wealth of knowledge and impact over the whole forest in any year." wisdom that they have acquired the hard way. The fifth point is as follows— They are an underutilised resource, often ignored by people with a better, but narrow, "There is no guarantee that placing a formal education. I am sure that the member forest in a CAR reserve system will sustain for Gregory, if he were here, would agree. the biodiversity status for which the area was reserved. In all ecosystems, there is a Having consistently asked for progression to an ecological climax. We consultation, including many letters to the are aware of a recent study undertaken Minister—none of which were acknowledged by DNR/DOE which warned of this process as far as I am aware—the members of the and advocated its consideration in three SGP groups were surprised and assessing the long-term likelihood of dismayed to stumble across an invitation from maintaining the current biodiversity. It is the DNR Forest Planning and Sustainable Use interesting that this study has not been Unit in issue 35 of Between the Leaves in included in the papers made available for September 1999, inviting the formation of public perusal." registers of interested people in the development of seven codes of practice. The The sixth point is as follows: forest Maryborough SGP group wrote to Rebecca management provides infrastructure, such as Williams and John Kelly, as suggested. roads, for general forest users. Tourism Practically, there is considerable overlap within benefits, and can coexist with sustainable the implementation of these codes. To a large forest management. extent, it is impractical to consider them The seventh point is as follows: they were separately. A holistic approach would be more cynical of eucalypt plantation proposals. They productive. This suggestion was made to the pointed out that the hoop pine plantation Planning and Sustainable Use Unit. Their reply establishment started before 1920; that is still anxiously awaited. Such behaviour harvesting of natural stands of hoop pine did makes one wonder if the title "public servant" not cease until the 1980s, that is, a lead time is still applicable. of 60 years. I ask: where is the lead time in the In summary, regarding consultation, I current proposals? submit to the House that consultation has I share their lead time concern. On my been and continues to be woefully own grazing property, I have one of the few inadequate, confined and concentrated. I second-generation trials of eucalypt species sincerely hope that that concentration has and cultivars. Those trees are only 18 months been on a truly representative and non- old and insect pests are already obvious. For threatened source. The Minister claims that his many years, I have monitored the QDPI trials purpose is to improve security of supply. I want at Toolara forestry without finding any cause to assure the Minister that the security that this for excitement. A senior forestry and ex-QDPI process is creating in rural communities is not researcher, consulted about the current bankable. In fact, some commercial banks are 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6017 already questioning the security provided by I now wish to go back and refer to the SGP holders. Additionally, in the future, when origins of this debacle, the National Forest a radical TV crew films a State forest logged Policy Statement 1992. It is an agreement down to 40 BHD, as is now suggested, then between the Commonwealth and State there will be an outcry from the Governments on broad goals for the environmentalists and timbermen. management of Australia's forests, with the dual aims of conserving the natural and I would like to touch on a critical point: cultural values of forested areas and hardwood plantations. I have worked in and developing a dynamic and internationally inspected many plantations of eucalyptus competitive forest products industry. The word camaludensis in South-East Asia and "dynamic" is encouraging. With the goals of Indonesia, planted for seven-year pulp the NFPS in mind, the QTB, the AWU and the rotations. I can assure the House that progress FPS developed their Regional Forests has not been without hiccups, despite the Development plan. It brought together three heavy involvement of leading CSIRO scientists crucial elements for the future management of and Savannah Machinery from Yandina. SEQ forests, namely, improved native forest However, it is a comfort to know that Australia management, a transition towards plantations, has this experience with pulp production in and a reserve system expanded by 200,000 countries wherein the common predators of hectares, making the reserve system eucalypts do not occur. comprehensive, adequate and representative. I have a very serious concern about the This tripartite plan maintains wood supply to restriction that the plantations that will replace industry at current allocation levels whilst State forests have to be on already cleared maintaining the structure and quality of the freehold land. The price of such land is forest in the long term. In response to this significant and the current availability is low. I plan, many small mills indicated a am aware of one company that is already preparedness to invest upwards of $1m each experiencing difficulty finding land to undertake to improve their value-adding capacities and to their own ambitions. Earlier in this debate, the undertake more efficient log conversion. Minister announced that a recent report had Larger mills have indicated a willingness to shown that land was available from Miriam invest in excess of $10m. Vale south. In actual fact, the report by An indication of the industry benefits of ABARE and the Bureau of Natural Resources this plan can be obtained from ABARE's stated that there was adequate land that was economic analysis of the various scenarios. suitable following soil and rainfall analyses, but There will be 300 more direct jobs and a $15m for it to be available, the current owners have per annum increase in production. Rod to be prepared to sell at a reasonable price. I McInnes, Selena Walters and various AWU ask the Minister: once he has guaranteed representatives did a magnificent job of selling supply to the timber mills, and this is known the plan, which generated tremendous support publicly, what does he think will happen to the but suddenly disappeared from the agenda. I value of land within those three broadly know that the Premier, the Deputy Premier defined areas? and the QTB executive continued to have back-room weekend meetings. What I hope that the Minister and forestry ultimatum was given to two men whom I companies have deep pockets and that the respect that made them suddenly capitulate? Minister has thought about the chance of class They capitulated in the interests of urban actions if the Government cannot fulfil its votes, giving no thought for the negatively promise of 25-year security. Conversely, the impacted rural communities and the dedicated production of timber by silviculture is so much timbermen. cheaper and involves no land disturbance and, thus, no deep ripping and, thus, no release of All the rural people who were in favour of soil-stored carbon dioxide. Biodiversity is this plan were disfranchised. The night before greater under mixed species forests, but mixed the Premier's Solomon-like announcement species plantations are difficult to manage and QTB members were advised and were led like harvest. The technology for silviculture is innocents to the slaughter. With the passage already known and practised. It involves the of time and more serious consideration, most multiple use of land. Multiple land use is of the mills and all of the councils have regarded as desirable by international changed their approval to disapproval. I know agencies, such as the Commonwealth Forestry that many millers are too scared to speak out Group and FAO, through the Tropical Forest for fear of retribution. Action Plan, the World Food Security Program I finalise this contribution by issuing a and the Non-Petrochemical Energy Program. challenge to the Government. Aila Keto is not 6018 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999 well regarded in serious scientific circles, but desperately wants the RFA to fail that he will she has had a tremendous impact on the Bill. I go to any lengths to undermine the challenge the Government to employ a world- agreement. Members opposite are being renowned environmental scientist who is childlike. They are jealous that, since the RFA acceptable to the millers, the silvipastoralists, was signed, there have not been huge howls the graziers and the Government to examine of protest on the streets of south-east this scheme and the suddenly abandoned Queensland. tripartite industry scheme, and then abide by Obviously because the stakeholders are his recommendations. I can provide the name standing by the RFA and working towards its of one of the deservedly most respected implementation, the coalition is doing natural resources scientists in the world. If the everything in its power to tear it apart. The Government is not prepared to seek such speeches of its members are thickly laden with independent opinion, it must accept the words and phrases that expose the fact that criticism levelled at it by the member for Callide they are trying to undo the agreement and that, basically, it does not give a damn about whip up a political storm. They are trying to the rural electorate. manipulate the communities in the South-East To encourage the Government to agree Queensland Regional Forest Agreement to an independent mediator, I seek leave of region and are irresponsibly promoting and the House to table two graphs of expected inducing feelings of insecurity when no such sawlog supply. The top graph is an estimate of feelings need to be felt because of the RFA. sawlog supply resulting from the tripartite They want the communities to feel insecure agreement that councils supported. The and they will do everything in their power to bottom graph shows an estimate of sawlog stop them from prospering and feeling supply resulting from the Bill that we are confident about themselves. The Opposition is debating. The bottom graph illustrates a trying to create conspiracies where crippled timber industry. conspiracies do not exist. Leave granted. In fact, the Nationals are desperately trying to win back their heartland from One Mrs LAVARCH (Kurwongbah—ALP) Nation. They think that by playing yesterday's (9.13 p.m.): Enough is enough. We have politics, they can out gun One Nation. They listened to hours of scaremongering from the think that they can "out nation" One Nation. other side and now it is time to put some They think that by talking the language of sanity back into this debate. On its face, the insecurity and alienation, they are talking the Forestry Amendment Bill 1999 is a relatively language of the people living in the affected simple Bill. It contains only seven clauses and communities. However, tonight I give the essentially deals with only two time periods. coalition members a tip. If they think that those One time period is of 25 years for the granting tactics of community manipulation and that of a sales permit for getting native forest style of politics will win back votes in towns like hardwood sawlogs under the native forest Wondai, Linville, Woodford, Maryborough, sawlog allocation system for south-east Peachester and Mapleton, to name just a few, Queensland. The other time period is of 10 they are dead wrong. They are on the wrong years for the extension of the legislated track. The tactics that they have displayed exemption from the provisions of the Trade throughout the debate on the RFA, especially Practices Act. The current exemption expired since the election of the Beattie Government, on 27 November this year, which was a great have shown clearly that they still do not day as it was my birthday. However, the affect understand why people in Queensland and in of those two time periods is of most vital National Party seats turned to One Nation. importance, because they are an essential Until they listen and learn from their mistakes, part of the regional forest agreement which, in they will continue to occupy the Opposition turn, is essential to providing the much sought benches. after security for the hardwood timber industry. Essential to understanding the feelings of It seems to me that some Opposition insecurity is understanding that people do not members are bitterly disappointed that there like dishonesty in politics. At the start of this has not been community discord about the debate, the shadow Minister for Primary regional forest agreement. They are bitterly Industries, Russell Cooper, was so blatantly disappointed because they wanted a re- dishonest in his speech that I interjected, enactment of the situation that occurred when asking for someone opposite to be honest. Western Australia first had a go at putting Again, I ask for members opposite to be together a regional forest agreement. Mr honest about the timber industry, the RFA and Borbidge, the Leader of the Opposition, so the RFA process. One and a half days of 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6019 debate has taken place since I asked for that on that day he had signed an interim someone to be honest and so much agreement with the Commonwealth to protect nonsense has come out of the mouths of the conservation values and timber industry those opposite that it will take us a week and a interests in the forests of south-east half to set the record straight. Queensland. He said that this agreement had As part of the Opposition's political tactics been achieved as a result of unprecedented are a number of charges that it has made cooperation between the Commonwealth and against the Government. The charges are State Governments and particularly between numerous and I will try to list them. They are the timber industry and the conservation as follows: firstly, they say that the State movements. He went on to say that there was forests do not have 25 years of sawlogs no doubt that some difficult decisions had to supply. That is nonsense. Secondly, they say be made, but both sides had worked with the that there has been no science used in Government with the single aim of achieving formulating the regional forest agreement. good outcomes for the community. He went Again, that is nonsense. Thirdly, they allege on further in that press release and paid that there has been a behind-closed-doors special tribute to Dr Aila Keto, of the Australian sleazy deal. In fact, they say that there has Rainforest Conservation Society, and Rod been no agreement. That is wrong. Fourthly, McInnes, of the Queensland Timber Board, for they allege that there has been no their leadership and commitment in that consultation. Fifthly, there has been process. Those are two of the same scaremongering that there will be mass job signatories to the full regional forest losses and town closures. Sixthly, they said agreement signed on 16 September 1999. that the cypress pine industry will be under What has changed over the past 18 months? threat. Underlaying all of the charges laid by What has changed for the Leader of the coalition, One Nation and ex-One Nation Opposition to claim now that Dr Keto and Rod members is the notion that in some way the McInnes are no longer proper representatives Beattie Government has conjured up a to sign an RFA? process called the regional forest agreement Let us look at some of the charges in to cause maximum harm to timber towns and further detail. There has been extensive that it has all been some sort of a con. The consultation. I know that, because I was part short response to each of those charges is: of the consultative team. During May, June what absolute rubbish! and July of this year, together with the Members opposite do not let facts get in members for Logan and Barron River, I spent the way of a good story. Firstly, in relation to many days on the road visiting and the regional forest agreement— listening—and I stress: listening—to as many stakeholders as we could get to, including Mr Veivers interjected. sawmillers, millworkers, AWU representatives, Mrs LAVARCH: The way members indigenous representatives, local government, opposite talk, I do not think they appreciate beekeepers, forestry workers and graziers. A that it is an agreement. They seem to think it number of speakers from the Opposition said has been imposed on people. that there has been absolutely no consultation with the graziers. When the member for Western Downs, Brian Littleproud, was the Minister for Mr Cooper: They will tell you that Environment, he issued a press release on 5 themselves. May 1998 proudly listing as the first and major Mrs LAVARCH: That is incorrect. There achievement of the coalition Government in has been extensive consultation and there is respect of environmental issues the first State ongoing consultation. I point out that the regional forest agreement. He was half right; it Minister for Environment and Heritage and was an interim agreement. The Borbidge Minister for Natural Resources held a meeting Government started the regional forest with non-timber stakeholders, including agreement process back in 1997 and was graziers, on 28 October 1999. There were supposed to have it completed by 30 June numerous meetings leading up to the RFA 1998, but they squibbed. They well being signed and there have been meetings understood the scientific reasons why a since. Those meetings have been to discuss regional forest agreement is needed, but it the implementation of the Queensland plan. was just all too hard. It is ridiculous for them to There were ongoing negotiations with Agforce deny the need for such an agreement now. regarding the process for the renewal of stock On 16 March 1998, Mr Borbidge, the then grazing permits and term leases for additional Premier, announced proudly in a press release conservation reserves. 6020 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

We also met and listened to contractors, government authorities in the region, and foliage collectors—and what a great success more detailed mapping information showing story Cedar Hill Orchids, at Palmwoods, State forests and new conservation areas has is—and the recreational forest users. Again, I now been provided to most of those wish to point out that there have been ongoing authorities. consultations with the recreational forest users. There was another meeting on 22 Again, in November last year the Minister for November 1999 with 19 mayors, together with Environment and Heritage and Minister for the councillors and support staff, at the Wide Natural Resources convened a meeting with Bay/South Burnett/North Burnett combined the Forest Recreation Reference Group to region association meeting held in ensure that its concerns were considered. The Maryborough. Minister also met with them again on 27 October this year and reiterated his previous Mr Veivers: What date was that? assurances to the Forest Recreation Mrs LAVARCH: That was on 22 Reference Group that there would be further November 1999. consultation prior to the final tenure allocation At the meeting in Maryborough, the for additional conservation reserves. The Mayor of the Cooloola Shire provided an Minister for Environment and Heritage and invitation for senior members of the Forest Minister for Natural Resources has indicated to Timber Industry Task Force to be present at a recreationalists that his aim is to have no net meeting on 29 November. There is no truth to loss—I repeat: no net loss—of recreational the charge that there has been no opportunities in the south-east Queensland consultation. There has been wide and region. Going further, we met with continued consultation. environmental groups, tourist operators, businesses and locals. We listened and we Mr Veivers interjected. reported back on what they were telling us. Mrs LAVARCH: The member for Many of the issues raised were addressed by Southport is admitting that there has been the RFA. Much has been alleged by members consultation. opposite about consultations with local— Much has been said about Boral and the Mr Cooper interjected. job losses there. Speaker after speaker said that 80 jobs will be lost. Yes, there will be Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr D'Arcy): some job losses. With the closure of Nandroya Order! As pleasant as it is to see the member and Cooroy, 53—not 80—full-time jobs and 25 for Crows Nest back in the Chamber, it was contractor positions will be lost. Boral intends much quieter without him. keeping its administration processing centre at Mrs LAVARCH: Thank you, Mr Deputy Nandroya operating, and this will result in the Speaker. It was obviously my charm that continuation of the existing 22 jobs. The brought him back. Government is moving directly to create jobs in plantation and conservation estate Along the way, there have been direct management and is working with the private meetings and consultations with all local sector by providing incentives to also create governments in the south-east Queensland plantation jobs and jobs in value adding. regional forest area. Leading up to the signing These opportunities will deliver an estimated of the RFA and even on the very day that the 471 new jobs, including 241 jobs in softwood Premier announced the Government's plan for value adding, of which 191 will be around the South East Queensland Regional Forest Maryborough; 30 in the Laminex MDF plant at Agreement, a concurrent meeting was also Gympie; 100 in plantation establishment and arranged by the Deputy Premier's office to management; and 100 in conservation estate provide a briefing on the RFA plan for all of the management. As honourable members well local government authorities in the region. know, the Government has established a Terry Mackenroth, the Minister for shopfront in Cooroy to deal with the workers' Communication and Information and Minister inquiries regarding employment opportunities for Local Government, Planning, Regional and on a one-to-one basis. Staff at the centre have Rural Communities, chaired that meeting. Six already had discussions with over a third of mayors representing the shires of Beaudesert, Boral's workers. As we speak, the union and Caboolture, Cooloola, Esk, Noosa and the workers from Nandroya and Cooroy are Woocoo, together with some of the councillors currently negotiating with Boral on the from those shires, were able to attend the redundancy agreements. The Queensland briefing. Officers from the Forest and Timber Government will find jobs for displaced Industry Task Force have subsequently had timberworkers in timber and timber related further contact with a number of local occupations. 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6021

Another point raised by the member for Taken individually those statements sound Warrego related to the cypress industry. very good. But I wonder how 350 jobs could Mr Cooper: That has nothing to do with be created, when tacked on to that was a the RFA. statement that 80 timberworkers' positions would be gone and that there was a great deal Mrs LAVARCH: Well, I ask the member to of disquiet among some in the timber industry. tell that to the member for Warrego, because A fact sheet released by the Premier says that, he raised it. He kept saying that it was under of those new jobs, 30 would be created at threat. It is not under threat. The coalition did MDF Laminex in the Gympie region and 100 not provide them with the security. This would be created in forest estate management Government has delivered security and in the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. I certainty to the cypress pine timber industry. In really hope that that is accurate and correct. I October the Minister for Primary Industries have looked at national parks management in officially opened a new million dollar sawmill in my own area. We need two foresters to Mitchell. It will employ 15 people and process manage the forest at Kroombit Tops to allow timber for growing export markets. Members better public access. We cannot even get two. opposite know that well. They know that the One of the big challenges in this State has State Government is committed to the cypress been the adequate management of national pine industry, which is part of a healthy and parks and wildlife. With the difficulty that has sustainable native forest industry in occurred over the past few years in getting one Queensland. or two Parks and Wildlife Service rangers in to Time does not permit me to address all manage our national parks, I cannot help but the other allegations that have been made, wonder how such a glib statement can be but I know that other Government members made that 100 jobs will be created in the Parks will address them in full. In conclusion, I can and Wildlife Service. say that the South East Queensland Regional Forest Agreement will result in an Mr Veivers interjected. unprecedented 25-year guarantee of Crown Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM: Lamington native hardwood supply at current levels. One National Park is a beautiful national park. I of the greatest causes of risk to the have walked it on a number of occasions. The Queensland timber industry will be removed by fact sheet also says that another 100 jobs are support for this Bill. I urge all members to going to be created in plantation support the Bill and show their support for the management. That appears to me to be more communities. feasible. If 10 million trees are going to be Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM (Gladstone—IND) planted over the next five years, plantation (9.31 p.m.): I rise to speak to the Forestry managers are certainly going to be needed. If Amendment Bill because of its importance to the Government is relying on 100 Parks and the livelihoods of many people across this Wildlife Service people, how are those 100 State. We have heard a lot of speakers on this positions to be created when there have been issue say, as did the member for Kurwongbah, difficulties in the past in getting one or two that there are speakers on the non- rangers? I would welcome them. We have Government side who are scaremongering. some beautiful national parks that could create However, rather than scaremonger, I want to a high level of tourism and a high level of voice some of the concerns that have been recreation for members of the community, had expressed to me and the contradictions I have there been sufficient people working in the observed in what has been said by both service. However, as I said, there appears to parties to this agreement. have been an inability to create even two or three positions let alone 100. The Minister, the Honourable Henry Palaszczuk, in a press release issued late last A previous speaker in the debate made a week, stated— comment regarding the attitude of recreational bushwalkers. On 22 September this year in a "Central elements of the south-east letter to a paper, Mr Christensen, from the Queensland Regional Forest Agreement Environmental Access for Recreation signed by the State Government, timber Federation Inc. of Bellbowrie, said— industry and conservationists in September, include: "The Regional Forest Agreement has at least 350 extra jobs; been touted by Premier Peter Beattie as a triumph of consultation. The marvellous planting of at least 10 million trees consultative process has been a transition to plantation forests over overestimated. Despite numerous 25 years." assurances that recreational users of 6022 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

state forests would be considered in the than express support for the RFA, they RFA process, we have been overlooked. expressed very severe doubts and concerns Recreation and tourism is one of the about it. That was a week ago. It concerns me largest industries in Australia." that, as close as a week ago to this debate That is another one of those contradictions in tonight, mayors were concerned about the this whole debate that concerns me. I would emerging information about the impact of the be the last person to say that I know all of the RFA on their councils. detail of the RFA, or indeed all of the detail of One of the mayors said that their concern the timber industry. Given its importance to was that the Government had not given timber towns—and I have a couple of small sufficient consideration to people in the towns in my electorate that rely on timber; it is industry. They were concerned that the the lifeblood of those little towns—if their Government did not go back to the LGAQ access to timber disappears, and Kroombit when the final RFA was agreed to with the has been locked up, then those little towns will timber industry and the conservation groups. suffer socially and economically. It is not just at That final agreement was not referred back to the mill that the jobs will go. The school will the LGAQ for ratification. It is my close. The clinic will close. Other positions in understanding that that had been agreed to the town, at the pub and at the shops, will also just prior to the RFA being redrafted. So the go. The economic and social implications for LGAQ appear to have been left out of the the towns that are particularly reliant on timber loop. Another mayor said that they felt that 21 are more than just the loss of timber councils all agreed that local government had allocations. been sold out by the Timber Board, or perhaps In his second-reading speech, the more accurately by the representatives of the Minister said— Timber Board. He cited to me a statistic which is not directly related to the RFA, but it is an "The Queensland Government plan indication of the sorts of repercussions which was underpinned by an agreement can accompany these decisions. It is an between the Australian Rainforest emotional statistic but, again, my purpose is to Conservation Society, the Queensland table their concerns as expressed to me that Conservation Council, Wilderness Society, night. the Queensland Timber Board and the Queensland Government." He said that after the closure of Fraser There is an imbalance in that list. I know Island four workers committed suicide and 14 representatives of the three conservation had nervous breakdowns, such was the impact groups—the Rainforest Conservation Society, of the loss of jobs, the loss of revenue and the the QCC and the Wilderness Society—and loss of family stability. That is the last outcome they are one wonderful people. However, they that any of us here would want from this RFA. have a particular focus. If they were included Again, the Minister and the Premier are saying and there was not a balancing number of that the outcomes will be good, positive and people available to discuss the timber just. I hope they are right, because there are industry's needs, it is a concern. Again, my people in positions of influence who disagree. purpose tonight is to address the I notice that one million acres of Kroombit, contradictions that have been become evident which is partly in my electorate, are to be in the past week. locked up. I have had a number of tours Cooroy big businessman and Noosa Shire through Kroombit with timber cutters in order Councillor Ray Kelly said that the town had for me to try to be able to identify harvested been sold out by both the Government and areas versus non-harvested areas, and it is Boral Timber. I read that as an introduction to very difficult. Some timberworkers—I cannot some of the concerns that have been say all, because I do not know them all—work expressed to me by local government. Again, very studiously and very effectively to ensure a the member for Kurwongbah listed her sustainable harvest. Not all are cowboys; in consultation and the consultation of the fact, very few are. Government with local government The local government representatives representatives. She also spoke about a again said that the Queensland RFA does not number of mayors with whom they had met. I conform to the Federal Government's submit to the Parliament tonight that on 1 guidelines and therefore the potential is that December representatives of One Nation and Queensland will lose $36m of Federal the Independents met with the Mayor of Government allocations. I have heard the Monto, the Mayor of Woocoo, the Mayor of Premier rightly campaigning in this Chamber Cooloola and a councillor from Gympie. Rather and through the media to the effect that we 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6023 remain open to Federal Government The Local Government Association raised assistance. That is critical. The industry needs issues in a number of other areas. It felt that that money. there was insufficient attention given to the Another concern expressed was that impact of the RFA on the rural economy. It felt whilst there is a discussion about a 25-year that there was a lack of consideration given to supply of timber, it cannot be guaranteed. I the negative impact on the economic situation notice that the clause in the Bill that discusses of predominantly rural communities. I have the allocation states "of not more than 25 already touched on the fact that if these towns years". I ask the Minister whether that enlivens are dependent on the mill and the mill closes, the prospect of the allocation, which is touted it does not affect just the 40 or 50 people who as 25 years, being reduced at some point in work in the mill; it affects the schools, the time. The clause says "of not more than 25 clinics, the hospitals, the shops—the whole lot. years". That does appear to allow an Six thousand people lived in a town in a opportunity for that 25-year period to be community of which I was mayor. One of the reduced. major industries there sacked 80 blokes One of the greatest disappointments to overnight. That town, which had a much more these local government representatives was sustainable basis than some of these small that in the last few weeks they were having timber towns, closed up for 18 months. It took trouble gaining access to State Government them 18 months to recover. It just knocked the Ministers. They wanted to express their guts out of them. They did not expect it. Eighty concerns directly to the Premier and to the people were out of a job, but it was not just the Minister for Primary Industries and they were fellows who were employed who were affected. unable to gain access to the relevant It was their wives and their children. The Ministers. downturn and the depression was felt by the rest of the workers there—the uncertainty, The Local Government Association wondering about their futures. When a major expressed a number of concerns in its industry in an area closes, the implications and submission on the South-East Queensland the impact are significant. Regional Forest Agreement directions report. I bring forward to this Chamber some of those The LGA also talked about the concerns. The background outlines a number implications on council planning, particularly in of meetings that had been held with relation to open space and recreation. In great stakeholders. Members of a forum in which all measure in my area this again touches on councils were involved passed the following areas such as Kroombit, which is being locked resolution in April 1998— up as a national park. In principle I do not "Participants at the forum submit that have a problem with that—it is a beautiful the south-east Queensland hardwood national park—but its value to the community forests are sustainably managed and that as a replacement investment, whether it be for there should be no decrease in logging tourism or whatever, is only as effective as its areas. Rather, that these areas should accessibility. continue to be made available for In the regional office in Rockhampton it managed harvesting and regeneration. has been said by one or two of the operators Further the forum agreed that this that Kroombit will not be open for public resolution should be supported by the access any more than currently unless there LGAQ Executive only on this basis." are rangers in-house. So there has to be a Subsequently the LGAQ executive did support recognition that if these areas are going to be that resolution. Since that time the directions locked up they must be not only accessible for report was released and there was a six-week recreation but also managed. consultation period for all stakeholders to On a regular basis we have experienced consider the directions report. The Queensland the situation that where fire fuel in national Local Government Association expressed parks is not properly managed—that is, the serious concern that insufficient consultation level of fuel that is available in either the forest had been provided to consider the directions area or the national parks area—fires start and report. In addition, councils have stated that they sweep through and wipe out rural farms. there must be consultation on any final On a regular basis the farms in the tablelands recommendations. These local government area and the Boyne Valley area are burnt out representatives stated to us on that evening because the fires sweep down off Kroombit that there was not final consultation on the and take all in their wake. Those farmers take recommendations. a long time to recover. 6024 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

The LGA raised a number of issues. It should be a win-win document that will benefit raised the impact on grazing leases and other our community. non-timber forest uses and council's rate base. My electorate has a timber industry, It raised the issue of sawlog timber allocation although it is not as large as the timber and sustainable forest management, which industries in many other electorates. The largely negate the need for locking up people who work in that timber industry are resources. It raised the issue that responsible people. Most of them have had consideration must be given with regard to their fathers in the timber industry—in the other wood products—that is, non-mill, locally milling industry—and they were looking forward sourced products. It also sought recognition to their sons and daughters being involved in that differences in community and local the milling industry in the future. I would not circumstances in specific areas will dictate like to support anything that would jeopardise alternative RFA outcomes reflecting those the responsible management and husbandry differences. It raised the fact that there needs of a resource which, over the years, has been to be a strong commitment from both looked after. I would not support something Commonwealth and State Governments that, by implication, says that those people towards the development of hardwood have been poor stewards of the resource in plantations on both State and freehold land. their region, because my observation is that An issue that will be coming up very soon they have not been. is the right to clear timber on freehold property. I am not opposed to the Bill per se, but I Whilst it is an allied issue, in either of these am concerned that there are such agreements—whether it is the RFA or tree contradictory points of view, one week out from clearing—it is not necessarily the right of this Bill being debated, when it is touted as a freehold landowners to be able to clear timber win/win situation. I voice those concerns indiscriminately if they want, but it is also the genuinely. I support the people in my rural right of a freehold landowner to be able to area who work very hard to ensure a better realise a return from an asset which they future for their communities, and I wish them, bought in good faith. That is tied up with this, through this document and any amendments because some of the hardwood logs would be to this document, every success in their available off private land if restrictions that are farming futures. not too onerous are brought in. Mr ELLIOTT (Cunningham—NPA) The other issue raised by the Local (9.51 p.m.): As a member representing a Government Association was that insufficient country area which also contains forestry, I consideration was given to social assessments wish to make a few points about the cypress of local communities. I have already touched pine industry. Around Cecil Plains and various on the fact that when a mill closes it is more other areas, a large number of people are than just the mill workers who are affected. involved in the cypress pine industry, as are The Local Government Association said the member for Crows Nest and the member that consideration had to be given to 20-year for Western Downs. Large numbers of people tenures on stock grazing permits in State are involved in that industry. Regrettably, very forests. It also recommended expanded little is known amongst the general public opportunities to be provided for joint venture about the cypress pine industry. People who arrangements for leases and the State understand the industry and have had a fair bit Government with natural regeneration of State to do with it tend to find that, over the years, forests. cypress pine grows very much like a weed. In All of this flies in the face of what no time flat, areas that have been logged are ultimately was the RFA agreement, but I am able to be logged again. concerned that things are being said in I believe that there is very little support of the RFA agreement that are understanding of the cypress pine industry contradicted by equally valid documentation amongst those in the conservation movement. and statements by people affected by the They do not really go into those areas. They RFA, and they have been made one week out seem to be able to hug the trees closer to the from this debate. So there is still a lot of coast where the climate is kinder to them. concern in the community that has not been They can walk around in the Cooloola National addressed. There are still a lot of people who Park and various other forestry areas, they can have a responsibility to their local government look at those trees and ooh and aah and goo communities who have concerns that have not and carry on. But we do not see many been responded to. While ever that occurs, we conservationists in areas where it is 110 in the will not get full support for a document that shade and the goannas need to take a cut 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6025 lunch to survive in the middle of that country. The timber industry in my electorate is We never see them in those areas. It is a very important, although it is not huge great pity that we do not take them out there, compared to the cotton or the grain industries. give them a compass and a couple of dry old However, it employs many people, including a corned beef sandwiches, let them loose and lot of small businesspeople and subcontractors see just how far they get. That way they would who bring the timber back. It employs the see exactly what is out there—the types of millers who work in the sawmills at Cecil Plains eucalypts and other trees that are there. and various other places. The whole fibre and In common with the member for structure of all those little towns and Maryborough, I challenge the various communities throughout Queensland—and Ministers—not so much Mr Palaszczuk, but Mr there are many of them—is dependent upon Welford, the Deputy Premier and the Premier; that timber industry. I challenge them in particular. I would like them The Government cannot allow the to let the cat out of the bag and tell us what conservation movement to get at it and screw really went on. I have seen clear evidence in everyone into the ground. No-one is more writing that the Queensland Timber Board's interested in the conservation of this State general manager recommended that a court than I am. I was responsible for the extension challenge be taken up in relation to this whole of the Cooloola National Park, which was exercise. But somewhere along the line probably directly against the forestry industry at someone got at those people. Who got at that time. So members should not think that them? What did they use as a lever to my philosophy is: if you can stand on it, plough convince those people that they should not go it, and if it stands, chop it down. That is not the ahead with a court challenge and that they case at all. We must be practical. We must should back down? have a balanced view. And quite frankly, this outcome is not balanced. Therefore, I do not In fact, it was resolved to challenge the support this legislation. pricing review in court, if implemented, and the Queensland Timber Board was concerned that Hon. K. W. HAYWARD (Kallangur—ALP) the pricing policy was coming directly from the (9.57 p.m.): The South-East Queensland conservation movement. The Minister's Regional Forest Agreement, signed by the adviser, A. J. Brown, advised that the State State Government, the timber industry and Government wished to review the RFA conservationists, will create hundreds of jobs objectives. Both the Federal Government and while preserving areas of high conservation the industry walked out of the meeting at that value. It is the outcome of two years of stage. One could say that perhaps the negotiation. It is the outcome of a lot of hard Government will try to have us believe that work. When considering issues concerning there was a signing off, if you like, on the conservationists and the timber industry, we whole process at that stage, but that is not are not talking about natural allies. We are not correct. The task force agreed to the way in talking about people who, in normal which it was to be done—in other words, the circumstances, get along with each other. But way in which they were to arrive at the end in this case, an agreement has been result—but they had not signed off on it at all. negotiated. There was very definitely a decision taken to Opposition members interjected. take it on in the court, if necessary. But Mr HAYWARD: And don't members somewhere along the line those people were opposite hate it! They hate it because they got at. That is the only way in which that could hoped that a deal would never be done. They have changed. I have seen that in writing. did not want to see certainty. They wanted to The DNR Minister's adviser indicated that, create an air of uncertainty. They wanted to be from 1 October 1998, the allocation would be able to go around south-east Queensland, reduced by 40%. There was no justification for and the rest of Queensland for that matter— that whatsoever. In the beginning, there was a Opposition members interjected. lot of goodwill and common ground in respect to some of the things that were being Madam DEPUTY SPEAKER (Ms Nelson- suggested. But the Government let the Carr): Order! If I am to hear what the member conservation movement take over the whole is saying, I need more quiet in the Chamber. process. They then stuck their bib in, the Mr HAYWARD: Members opposite Government caved in to them, and then the wanted to be able to go around Queensland Federal Government and the industry walked saying, "Look, this State Government can't put out of the meeting. Somewhere along the line, this deal together." But the fact is that the deal this Government got something over those has been put together. And what happened people and was able to make them cave in. then? Because members opposite never 6026 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999 thought for one minute that the deal would be The dumb thing about this issue is that done, they never involved themselves in the those opposite come from a million miles process. behind because they did not think an Those opposite thought there would be a agreement could be reached. The problem for problem here and a stuff-up there. They the coalition is that the timber industry, the thought that this Government could not do it. conservationists and the community in general Those opposite woke up one morning and the have given this measure strong support. As I deal was done and they found themselves said, those opposite hate the thought of an completely on the back foot because they had agreement being reached. Now they have to dealt themselves out of the process. hunt around and see if they can scavenge a few people who are not happy about things. Mr Cooper said something along the Those opposite will have to jump on their tram lines, "We are not going to do sleazy deals and say, "This is what has happened; these with the Greens behind closed doors just for people were not part of it." The reality is that the sake of a few lousy preferences." Let things have moved on. The deal has been history speak for itself. Everyone knows that done. Mr Cooper is capable of doing sleazy deals Mr Cooper: A sleazy deal. because the courts have shown that. Mr HAYWARD: Earlier, the member for Mr COOPER: I rise to a point of order. I Crows Nest asked that I withdraw certain think the honourable member has been on the remarks. He is the same person who meths. I take offence at the honourable referred— member's remarks. They are false and Madam DEPUTY SPEAKER (Ms Nelson- offensive and I ask that they be withdrawn. Carr): Order! Will the honourable member for Mr HAYWARD: I withdraw. The Crows Nest please refrain from using honourable member for Crows Nest can talk unparliamentary language. about a sleazy deal, but those opposite would Mr HAYWARD: The member for Crows have done a deal if they had the opportunity. Nest spoke about sleazy deals. The reality is Let us not kid ourselves, because history that this deal cannot be construed as such. shows that those opposite are capable of People who had conflicting objectives were at negotiating deals with all sorts of divers groups the table. They had their say and the deal was in our society. They are quite capable of done. It must be acknowledged that getting negotiating deals with the Greens. I know that these people together to forge an agreement from personal experience because I have was a difficult thing to do. I know those been in an election campaign where the opposite do not accept that, but let us accept Greens have given their preferences to my for one minute that it is not an easy thing to conservative opponent. So it should not be do. The agreement has been reached. Those said that the coalition is not capable of doing opposite should give some credit where credit deals, because I know that it is. is due. Members can ask anyone who knew The coalition is no longer part of the anything about the 1995 election about deals game. The important thing is that this being done with the Greens. Let us not kid agreement provides some certainty. If one ourselves that, somehow, there is a group of gets in a car and drives from Caboolture to people lurking on the other side of the House Kilkivan or Biggenden, one soon finds that who are incapable of doing a deal, because if people want some certainty in their they are incapable of doing a deal, they will community. The Minister and his staff have put remain in Opposition for a long time. I will be in the hard work and, with the conservationists pleased to see that. and representatives of the timber industry, Our society is about doing deals. Our they have been able to produce a result. society is about working through problems. I am sure that not everyone walked away That is how one operates in our society. That from the table and said, "I got what I wanted", is how one gets people from the timber but they got something. The most important industry and the conservationists to come thing that people received was certainty for the together. One is able to work through the timber industry and certainty for the problems. As one comes to a problem, one conservation groups. Most importantly, a lot of either ticks it off or puts it to one side and says, people employed in the industry received job "We will come back to that one later." It is a certainty. The central element of this new matter of trading things off. That is what has forestry agreement is hundreds of new jobs. happened in this case. Mr Stephan: Where are they? 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6027

Mr HAYWARD: Let us look at the new this House. Those characters would not be jobs. We have an increase of 425,000 here if coalition members had not run around hectares in the amount of native forest which and created uncertainty. The coalition either will be protected from logging. Logging of would not deliver or it could not deliver. The native forests will end by the year 2024. It is Labor Government is delivering. Those very difficult to negotiate such a result, but it opposite take the attitude that they oppose has been done. This agreement has provided this legislation, although I am getting the a 25-year wood supply in the form of a sales impression that they are arguing, "It is 25 permit which ends in the year 2024. years, but it should be 35 years." In that Mr Cooper: That's not enough—25 years. sense, the Opposition is basically accepting what the Government is talking about. One Mr HAYWARD: From the honourable could not get that impression from what the member's interjection, I can see that he is at shadow Minister said in his response to the least conceding the point that that bit of Minister's second-reading speech. certainty is there. Mr Cooper interjected. An Opposition member interjected. Mr HAYWARD: No, I tried to make sense Mr HAYWARD: Those opposite are of the shadow Minister's speech, but it was saying that it is 25 years but it should have very difficult. I read, "We were not going to do been 35 years. If those opposite had played sleazy deals behind closed doors with the some role in the initial negotiations instead of Greens just for the sake of a few lousy sitting on the sideline and stirring up apathy in preferences", and next to that I wrote, "Would the community— if they could". Let us not muck around, we all An Opposition member interjected. know that. Mr HAYWARD: It could have been sheer The South-East Queensland Regional laziness, but I am passing it off as apathy. Forest Agreement will cost more than $80m to What would have happened is that the implement fully. I do not think that anyone Opposition would have been able to play a opposite is disputing that. They have all role in the negotiations. As I said earlier, those accepted that! This is amazing stuff! We are opposite really come at this game from a long finding some common ground. We have way behind. The score is 15-nil before they agreed to 25 years and we have now agreed even get on the field. The reality is that they to the cost of $80m. To contribute to that cost, cannot catch up because the agreement has the State Government is seeking up to $36m been reached. All they can do is try to grab from the coalition Government in Canberra. hold of a couple of players who might not have That is where we need some support from the fitted into things and somehow jump on their members opposite. We need a united front tram. from Queensland for this contribution from the Federal Government. I am sure I heard the This Bill is designed to implement shadow Minister say that he agreed that the provisions for the critical long-term security and cost would be more than $80m. We have now certainty of the forest and timber industry for moved on to seeking up to $36m from the Queensland and for Queensland rural and coalition Government in Canberra. So why regional communities. This is extremely could the members opposite not use their important. Those opposite will scream and yell, influence with their colleagues in Canberra so but one must look at what they were doing that they would realise how important it is, and when they were in Government. They did how desperate Queensland is, to get this nothing. $36m so that we can fix up the Regional Mr Cooper: Sensible, practical solutions. Forest Agreement? When the $36m is put in Mr HAYWARD: Sensible, practical the tin, then $80m will get pumped into these nothing! Those opposite had a do-nothing local communities. That is so important. approach to this— I say to members opposite that, by not An Opposition member interjected. taking on Canberra, they run the risk of being labelled supporters of Canberra. As Mr Cooper Mr HAYWARD: If those opposite were knows, the problem is that if the members doing all this, where was the agreement and opposite keep saying that they support what where was the work? If the coalition had done the coalition decided to do in Canberra, come the work, the next Government would not be a State election, they are going to wear it. able to undo that work. Those opposite were prepared to go along and maintain the air of Mr Cooper interjected. uncertainty. They did it so well that they Mr HAYWARD: Then why is not the brought the One Nation Party members into member opposite in Canberra saying to his 6028 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999 colleagues, "We on this side of the House do don't agree with what they did", people will not agree completely with everything, but we ask, "What about the money?" Then the agree with a couple of things, and one of member will have to say, "No, we didn't do those things is that it is going to cost $80m."? that. We just thought that Canberra could hold Mr Cooper: You said that; I didn't. the money." He will have no hope of surviving the electoral contest, because if he is seen Mr HAYWARD: I thought that the going around defending the Federal member agreed with that figure. The member Government—and I know this because I have must agree that it will cost something. been in this Parliament when there has been a Mr Seeney interjected. Federal Labor Government; let us not kid Mr HAYWARD: The next thing the ourselves and live in dream time—the member member is going to tell me is that Lennox will live with it, too, long and hard. That is what Lewis cannot box. Fair dinkum! It is very is going to happen: the member will be seen difficult to have a logical discussion with as not standing up for Queensland. The somebody who simply says, "I do not agree members opposite should forget the logic, with anything that you say." Even if the forget the arguments—forget everything—they members opposite do not agree with what I will be seen as not standing up for am saying, they should think about this: there Queensland. It is not a matter of whether the will be a State election coming up soon and, in members opposite are right or wrong—in this the lead-up to that election, one of the things case, they are wrong—it is a matter of the that the members opposite are going to have members opposite digging a really deep ditch say is that they did not go out to get $36m for for themselves, because they did not stand up Queensland. They did not chase after their for Queensland. When they travel from colleagues in Canberra for the money. No, Brisbane to Cairns, out through Kilkivan, up they took the view that they would oppose the through Monto to Biggenden and they do not Labor Government in Queensland and support stand up for Queensland, they can forget their colleagues in Canberra. I know that, when winning the next election. It is as simple as the member for Callide drives along that road that. to Kilkivan up through Monto, the last thing The problem with the Queensland that the people in those areas want to hear is National and Liberal Parties is that they have that they were dudded by somebody in failed to do anything to help to obtain Federal Canberra. Even if it is half true, it is the last funding to help implement the agreement. For thing that those people want to hear. The what it is worth, my advice is that the members member opposite knows that, because he is opposite could oppose the agreement, but the master— whatever they do, they should not oppose Mr Seeney interjected. getting the money. When the members opposite oppose getting the money, they are Madam DEPUTY SPEAKER (Ms Nelson- then seen to be not standing up for Carr): Order! The member for Callide is Queensland. I need not give the members interjecting from other than his correct seat. opposite any advice; they are determined to Mr HAYWARD: I think that he is thinking stay seated on the opposition side. That is about moving in the course of the— good. I do not particularly want to interfere with Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: It might be an that. However, it strikes me as incredibly idea if the member for Callide resumed his illogical of the Opposition in Queensland to not correct seat. do that. It does not matter what the One Nation members and the Independents do; Mr HAYWARD: The member has not they do not fit into the process much anymore. quite moved to that seat yet. At this point, he However, if the members opposite threaten to is just getting used to that seat. I am sure that create more uncertainty, then they give those Mr Cooper would agree that the member members a window of opportunity to have should be given the opportunity to get used to some influence. the seat. That is okay. We will see what happens Mr Cooper: Not a problem at all. down the track. It is important to note that the Mr HAYWARD: Exactly. I agree. However, State Government is implementing the plan. when the member for Callide is the shadow However, in order to implement that plan, Minister and in the lead-up to the State which is estimated to cost more than $80m, election he goes around and says, "We didn't we need that Federal Government support. work our butts off to get $36m from Canberra. There is a chance for the Opposition to We didn't bother to do that. The Labor demonstrate its commitment to Queensland Government in Queensland tried that. We and provide that important support. I suggest 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6029 to members opposite that they get on the has vastly different ideas from the greenie phone and lobby their colleagues in Canberra. coalition about how to responsibly manage a They should tell their colleagues that they want native hardwood forest. The greenies' idea is the money coming to Queensland. If the to lock up vast areas of the timber country in members opposite do not tell their colleagues the State - timber country that has sustained a that they want the money coming to well-managed native hardwood industry for the Queensland, come the next State election, past 150 years at least. As a result of this they are going to be punished by their pincer movement, which is slowly squeezing constituents, and they are going to be the lifeblood from our timber towns, loggers punished so severely that they will continue to desperate for timber will be forced to cut trees remain in Opposition. The members opposite that, in the normal course of events, would be are going to be punished also for failing to left for the next rotation. That will be the cue produce a plan. They have failed to put for the greenies to rise up in their normal forward ideas to resolve this important issue. sanctimonious manner, point to the Through their failure to do so, the members degradation that they have been responsible opposite have shown that they are anti-timber for promoting and roundly condemn the poor industry and anti-timberworkers. Most struggling timbermen who are trying to glean a importantly, their failure to do so is anti- subsistence living from the inadequate timber Queensland. The members opposite will be blocks allocated for their use. punished for that at the next State election. No-one wants to see our native hardwood Mr PAFF (Ipswich West—ONP) forest degraded. The timber industry believes (10.18 p.m.): Last week, I listened to this that the best way to meet all the objectives of debate on the Forestry Amendment Bill. In the agreement is to reduce the area of country that debate, the contributions of the member that has been locked up and make much for Whitsunday, the member for Crows Nest greater areas available for systematically and possibly the Leader of the Opposition controlled logging. This allows the thinning of seemed to make sense. The people in the older trees that are in demand, which in turn bush are not butchers of the bush; they know promotes the accelerated growth of the forest that they must manage the forest, for it is their in general. As most people would be aware, livelihood. The Forestry Amendment Bill one of the great issues facing us as a global facilitates a South-East Queensland Regional village is the production of carbon gas. Old Forest Agreement. That is an agreement dying forests are not very active and, between the Australian Rainforest therefore, do not consume much carbon. Conservation Society, the Queensland However, young dynamic selectively logged Conservation Council, the Wilderness Society, forests are growing rapidly and have a far the Queensland Timber Board, and the higher demand for atmospheric carbon, as it is Queensland Government. The stated one of the basic molecular building blocks of objectives of this agreement are listed as timber. being a world-class conservation system, the The next stated objective is a competitive ecologically sustainable management of and efficient timber industry. We can be very forests, a competitive and efficient timber sure that the first half of that statement will industry, and enhanced economic come true. The industry will certainly be development and employment prospects for competitive. The industry will be forced to rural communities. compete desperately against itself for the What is a world-class conservation reserve meagre scraps that are thrown to it by the all- system? Is it simply a big system? Perhaps powerful greenies. However, will we have an size really does matter to the greenies. I think efficient timber industry? I do not think so. that a world-class system is simply the system What we will have is an industry that is forced that a minority of loud greenies considers by Government policy to cut timber to such a appropriate. No-one in this State objects to small diameter that it will make logged areas holding natural resources of various sorts in look like war zones. Once again, the greenies reserve to maintain such values as biodiversity will come along with their television cameras and the naturally occurring balance between and, lo and behold, on the 6 o'clock news the species that are found in the wild. What they public will see graphic shots of chainsaw- do object to is the locking up of huge tracts of wielding loggers, unmercifully attacking Crown forest that are far larger than necessary defenceless little trees, and a barren to meet the requirements of conservation. landscape. Nobody will bother to mention that Once again, few would argue against the this situation was brought about directly by the ecologically sustainable management of our actions of the greenie coalition and this forests. The problem is that the forest industry Government. 6030 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

Recently, I read a book on the history of want to get into the task of value adding the Brisbane Valley, which was published by product can do so. Millers will know that if they the Esk Shire Council. I was amazed to learn make an investment, they will have resource of the amount of logging that took place in the security for 25 years. Of course, we hear area of Blackbutt, Linville, Toogoolawah, Esk objections from those opposite because this is and Fernvale since first settlement in 1841. a major departure from their policies: their Hundreds of thousands of tonnes of timber policy of annual sales permits, their policy of was taken out of that area. Lars Anderson was reduced reductions and their policy of no a miller in the area. Prior to 1900, there was no planning. In other words, their policy of death management. However, since about the by a thousand cuts. 1920s, there has been some control and in all This is landmark legislation from a Labor these years there have been no problems with Government. It is landmark legislation that forestry management. I ask: why now? leaves the Opposition floundering in its wake, Honourable members can be assured because it is only the Labor Party—and that the small towns of Blackbutt, Linville, historically it has always been the Labor Toogoolawah, Esk and Fernvale will be hurt by Party—that delivers the right outcomes for the introduction of this Bill. Those towns primary producers and regional and rural depend on the forests for work and that Queensland. The Labor Party has done that dependency affects the whole community, because we are not hogtied by the vested including shopkeepers, carriers and others too interests that control the preselections of all numerous to mention. The introduction of this National Party members opposite. The Bill comes at a very bad time, when people are National Party was never able to do the hard really hurting. There is a lot of uncertainty things or the decent things because, when it amongst country people. If we fail to listen to comes to reform, it has a heart the size of a the bush, we do so at our own peril. A lot has split pea, and it knows it. been said on this matter and I will not go on. To prove my point, I ask members to look However, the Government should be warned: at the two and a half years of the Borbidge although the population of the bush is down Government. What did it introduce for primary on votes, at the end of the day the people will industries? Two minor pieces of legislation! have their say at the ballot box. The Borbidge Government was supposed to I grew up in the bush. I recall when I was be the farmers' Government, but the farmers a child that I went cutting timber with my woke up to it and deserted it in record father. That was pretty tough work. I remember numbers in favour of the One Nation Party. On my father cutting logs with a crosscut saw and the big primary industries issues of the day, then using wedges to cut the timber into split the National Party was never able to front up fence posts. That was a long time ago. My to the starting gate, whether the issue was father was a conservationist. He would only cut sugar, dairying, animal care and protection, the amount of timber that he needed. Today, east coast trawler management, butcher the people on the land are still doing the same shops or the cypress pine industry. The Labor sort of thing. When I bought land in Party delivered on all of those issues. Queensland, I did the same thing. I only cut The Labor Party gave the cypress pine the timber that I needed to build a fence. I did industry 15-year security agreements and new the work myself. I used a chainsaw to split the mills are starting as a result. With butcher fence posts and I fenced the property. I left a shops, the Labor Party had to clean up the good stand of timber. That philosophy was mess left to us by the member for handed down from my father. I do not think Hinchinbrook. With sugar, the National Party that a lot of people really understand how hard was unable to put into legislation an bush people work. If a little bit of real thought agreement that had been signed off three was put into the forestry management years ago. All it had to do was come into proposal before the House and some sort of a Government, pick up the book, look at the moratorium was held, I am sure that a better agreement and put it to work, but it could not scheme would come up than the one we have do it. In relation to the dairy industry, they been discussing for the last couple of weeks. fudged it to the point at which it will again be the Labor Party that has to step in and resolve Mr MICKEL (Logan—ALP) (10.26 p.m.): the issue. And so it has been with respect to This Bill gives the hardwood timber industry the RFA. According to some, the RFA is the what it has always been seeking: 25 years of first State regional forest agreement. It is an resource security. It gives the industry 25 years achievement. to plan for the future so that regional towns can get on with the job and so that millers who Mr Seeney: It's a con job. You know it. 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6031

Mr MICKEL: A con job? I am inclined to have been done. But in keeping with the think that it is an achievement. Why do I think record of the National Party, they were never it is an achievement? A press release of 5 May acted upon by the former member for 1998 from Brian Littleproud lists some of the Barambah when he was the Minister for achievements of the coalition Government. At Primary Industries. They were certainly the top of the list is the "First State regional available to the member for Hinchinbrook forest agreement". The National Party is during his unhappy but brief term as Primary walking away from its own Ministers in Industries Minister. He never acted on those Government. It claimed it as an achievement studies on the availability of land. in Government, yet in Opposition they walk What the Government has achieved is away from it. The further away they get from this: unprecedented resource security. We are Government, the worse their advice becomes. providing $10m for industry development so How dare the honourable member disown the that firms that want to undertake a much- member for Western Downs in such an needed value added component within their unconscionable manner. How dare the industry can do so. Using technology, more of member for Callide, in his scramble to get to the log can be used and this leads to value the front bench, walk over the still warm body adding. At the moment, we all know that, of the member for Western Downs. We heard using the existing technology, too much of the from the Leader of the Opposition about how log is wasted. With advanced technology, we the spin doctors get to everything. He might can reduce that wastage and achieve greater like to speak to the honourable member for value adding—flooring, furniture and hobby Western Downs about his media release. Of wood. course, disappointments have been expressed, with claims that— Yesterday I was approached by somebody who presented me with a new "... the RFA process represents a business strategic plan for using some of the destabilisation of the timber industry. wood from western Queensland—gidgee, Such claims do nothing to achieve the boree, coolibah, wilga, blackwood, orange box, RFA process; it's not a fait accompli and Burdekin flame. He claims that those sorts situation because RFA is about of timbers can be put to use earning export consultation and negotiation. The RFA is dollars for Australia in all of those industries not just about identifying areas for that I just mentioned. Has the National Party conservation, it's also about building in ever said a word about that? Have we heard the development option to ensure about that in the debate so far? Absolutely Queensland's vital timber industry is in a not! Yet this is the stuff that could be providing better position ..." employment opportunities not for Labor Mr Seeney interjected. electorates but for western Queensland towns, Mr MICKEL: I hear the member for which Opposition members claim are dying. Callide disagreeing with that statement also. However, they have not done a darned thing Those words were uttered by none other than about it. There will be great need in some of the member for Hinchinbrook on 11 March these communities and there are some 1998—word for word. The member for Callide outstanding representatives in them. is this time scrambling over the body of the I wish to speak about the mill we visited at member for Hinchinbrook. Wondai. Outstanding people work in it and Mr Rowell interjected. outstanding leadership is being shown by the team there. Let us talk about Skene Finlayson, Mr MICKEL: The honourable member is Linville, which is outstanding in terms of disowning his own words. After the butcher technology, as is Grants in Woodford. But shop debacle, why would he not disown his many other mill owners are looking for own miserable performance in Government? resource security so that they can think about He was not able to deliver a thing, including whether they would like to undertake that the RFA—and I just quoted his media release. value-adding process. I include in that Hyne They had all the time in the world to get an and Son in Maryborough, an outstanding firm RFA. As we have seen from those two which as a result of this RFA process will ministerial press releases, they did nothing. provide bigger and better job opportunities in There was no consultation and nothing was Maryborough. The member for Crows Nest completed. Similar to all of the other Bills, it and the Leader of the Opposition said there was put in the too-hard basket. has been no consultation in all of this. In fact, The Leader of the Opposition spoke there has been extensive consultation, and about availability of land studies being done. I they know it—consultation that they could not am reliably informed that many such studies be bothered with or were too lazy to get on 6032 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999 with. All of the departments were involved in it, "The National Party isn't for us. It is good to contrary to the advice given to this House by see you consulting." the Leader of the Opposition. The DPI, DNR, State Development, the Environmental We also heard from the honourable Protection Agency—all played a role on the member opposite about deals with the negotiating team. All played a role in providing Greens. I will speak about a deal with the advice. Greens. Let us speak about the 1995 deal they did with Drew Hutton. There is absolute The Leader of the Opposition went on to silence from members opposite. The member mention the Forestry Institute. I thought it for Burnett, Doug Slack, along with all of the strange that it had not been included. What connivance and contrivance of those opposite, did I find when I got hold of the document? went along with a preference deal with the The document that the honourable member Greens in the 1995 election. We know that for Crows Nest and the Leader of the and the results are there for all to see. They Opposition were speaking about was not a would get back into bed with him as quickly as post RFA document at all. In fact, it was a pre- they could if they thought they could win the RFA submission to the Directions Report. The election with him. We know all about the document they quoted from is dated 25 June National Party and its shabby deal with the 1999, well before our decision. All of the Greens. people I mentioned are members of the Forestry Institute. The member deliberately I want to commend the people who made misled this House in the way he presented that themselves available to consult with the document. A squadron of people after him all backbench committee when we conducted claimed some authorship of this document. In extensive consultations over a period of fact, it was a document that was readily months throughout many parts of available. What happened? Wilson Tuckey Queensland—Dingo, Rockhampton, rang the department for it and, not long after Gladstone, up in the back of Benaraby to that, I understand the Leader of the Builyan, Many Peaks, Bundaberg, Opposition's office woke up and said, "This is a Maryborough, Linville and the little towns out document we can use." In other words, they from Maryborough, Gympie, Cooroy, had not done even the most basic research. Mooloolah, Peachester and Woodford. On two This document was available. occasions in Woodford we were not only able An Opposition member interjected. to meet with the mill workers and mill owners but went and did the hard yards that the Mr MICKEL: I said "25 June". National Party have never done—we went and What does it say? The honourable saw the forestry for ourselves and saw the member for Crows Nest spoke about remarkable job they do. plantations and their inability to be grown in 25 years. I wish to quote from the document that Mr Stephan: That would have been the all Opposition members have loved to quote first time you had been in a forest. from but have never had the intestinal fortitude Mr MICKEL: I hear the honourable to wave around because they knew that the gentleman from Gympie interjecting. He was date would give them up. What does it say? It nowhere to be seen when we visited stated that there can be a 30 to 40 year Gympie—not a skerrick in sight; he was rotation, although given adequate research nowhere to be seen. I want to commend the and technological advances this could possibly Grant family in Woodford for the foresight they be reduced to around 20 years. have shown in setting aside their own private Mr Stephan interjected. areas of land some years ago for the private Mr MICKEL: The honourable member for harvesting of hardwood timbers. That is Gympie is now walking away from the foresight in an industry that was sadly lacking document that the Opposition has quoted ad at a Government level. In those dreadful 32 nauseam in this debate. They have given up years that quite happily came to an end 10 Opposition spokesmen. Now they are giving years ago under my predecessor the National up the Forestry Institute. They will give up Party found hardwood plantations all too hard everybody. and gave up. They could not be bothered. They could not see a future in it. So we are all Mr Hayward: I think the electors will fix left with those endearing images of Sir Joh them up. Bjelke-Petersen on a bulldozer clearing the Mr MICKEL: The electors woke up to land. In other words, he was clearing away all them. That is why they voted for One Nation in the job opportunities for people—for the droves. That is why people in the bush say, timberworkers and their families who were 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6033 forgotten during that whole period of National the RFA. But I am advised most of those Party Government. comments were pre-RFA submissions sought I also want to thank the members of the in the directions report. Politics is about a Australian Workers Union, the general battle of ideas. We have a Government with secretary, Bill Ludwig, and all the AWU ideas, proposals and plans. Do we ever hear a organisers who made themselves available to plan, an alternative or a vision from the meet with us and enable us to meet with the Opposition? No, it is knocking because they work force who are doing a great job in all want to go about business the way they did those areas. I also want to thank people like last time—the same miserable Opposition Rod McInnes, John McNamara, Shein producing the same miserable Government Finlayson and the Grant family who showed a they were for two and a half years. maturity in their negotiations with What people want to know from the professionalism and an eminent desire to be Opposition is where they stand with the reasonable. Federal Government. Do they stand with Opposition members interjected. Wilson Tuckey and his attempts to derail the RFA, as he did so disastrously in Western Mr MICKEL: Above all, these were the Australia? Do they stand with Senator Hill on people in the negotiations who, unlike the his tree-clearing initiatives? Do they stand with members interjecting, were putting it on the Senator Hill in his stance on coal fired power line, putting their hands in their pockets to stations? Do they stand with Senator Hill on his make the investment. Financially the workers plan on reef management or do they want to wanted security, security so they could do all back Queensland for a change? Get up and the things that other people do—buy a car and work with the State Government and ensure pay off a house. I also thank the Timber Board the Federal Government comes right in behind representatives because they wanted to give us in a financial way to ensure that there is what was sadly lacking in their industry— some indication of the likely level of Federal namely, security to their members. Government funding. As I have said, these people are At this stage, the indications are that the concerned about forestry, as are the workers in Federal Government will not fund any the industry. There was a tremendous amount plantation development—not any plantation of maturity shown in how they care for the development! We have to get on to the forest and where they saw their future. They Federal Government to ensure that it starts were prepared to give it their all. What has releasing some of the purse strings so that been the result? We have an outcome that is regional and rural Queensland benefit. It is a model for all other jurisdictions—a national those benefits I want to speak about in the model that can provide a base for all the next few minutes. I commend the Minister for people who want to live off forestry as well, Primary Industries for calling for expressions of such as beekeepers and florists. I have interest for the propagation of half a million noticed in these debates in the past that those hardwood seedlings required for planting next opposite always have a bit of a giggle about year in thousands of hectares. It is proposed the florists because they do not understand that the seedlings are to be planted at Miriam the industry. Vale, in a region from Caboolture to They do not understand that a Bundaberg, Kilcoy, Lockyer and the Brisbane multimillion-dollar industry has been created in Valley. The seedlings to be propagated are a the electorate of the honourable member for eucalyptus species including blackbutt, Nicklin which exports millions of dollars worth of Gympie messmate, spotted gum, white gum products to Europe and which creates much and rose gum hybrid. needed employment for people in the Not only will this initiative help provide a hinterland of the Sunshine Coast—Cedar Hills secure future for Queensland's hardwood Orchids Pty Ltd, trading as Cedar Hill Flowers industry, it will also stimulate jobs and growth in and Foliage. What is more, when we met with the nursery industry. There are already some them, they were very critical of the Boral 700 hectares of hardwood plantation on extraction practices. I know that honourable private land in south-east Queensland. In members opposite think it is a giggle because addition to this, the Government is progressing they have never bothered to get in the car and hardwood research valued at $8m. This is a get up there and see them. They think they tremendous initiative and a tremendous know it all. I also want to commend the opportunity. It is what people have been recreational users. looking forward to from the Government—any The honourable member for Crows Nest Government. Unlike the previous Government held up examples of what people felt about and unlike any of the speeches that have 6034 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999 been given by the Opposition in this My experience with hardwood plantations Parliament, we are actually doing the work and in my area is that there have been a number showing the lead. In Opposition and in of trials. There have been some problems with Government, we have been on about resource getting a species suitable for plantation use. I security. We want a hardwood industry that know that a lot of work has been going on in can go forward, but I make this point: I believe the southern area of the State, but the we need the right-to-harvest legislation. We Opposition is concerned about the should be working on that to ensure that these Government pinning so much hope on an plantations are secure. I would like to be in a industry at such short notice. If it is properly situation where the environmental movement, managed, this resource can go on for a long the extremists— time. I think it is important that the integration Time expired. of a plantation is carried out. Of course, we do not want to depend on it to the extent that this Mr ROWELL (Hinchinbrook—NPA) Government is. If we do and we find that it (10.46 p.m.): In following that two minute does not meet the expectation, we may find wonder, it is quite interesting for me to observe that many people—sawmills and people who that Queensland is in no doubt about needing are dependent on the timber industry—will a forest industry. Certainly, the hardwood have some difficulty. industry is extremely important. To hear that I refer to an incident in the Ingham district. people know it all after a few visits around the A mill that employs something like 17 people countryside is quite remarkable. They probably needed rose gum for roof battens. Rose gum did not get any sawdust under their fingernails. is quite a hard timber. Unfortunately, the pines I think the sawdust is mostly in their heads. It is are not suitable because they do not meet extremely disappointing. cyclone specifications. Almost 12 months ago the mill approached the Department of Natural The timber industry is an important Resources for approval to get a supply of rose industry. At the present time, we import gum. It is still waiting for an answer. I think that something like $2 billion worth of timber is absolutely disgraceful. There have been products. It is incumbent on us in Government studies conducted. This Government has a and in Opposition to make sure that the propensity to study things to death and not do resource is fully utilised to the best of its a heck of a lot. In this instance, those people capacity. I do not think that that has been who are so dependent on that hardwood for done with this agreement, and that is our the survival of the mill, particularly the major concern. Yes, we did have an interim employees, do not know what the future holds. RFA we were working through. A lot of On 19 April representatives of the mill met scientific background went into it. It was quite with the Minister for Natural Resources and important that we went down that track. It is Minister for Environment and Heritage at a interesting to note that that was about two Community Cabinet meeting in Townsville. years or even longer ago. We now have a There has been no response. There has been Government touting that it knows quite a bit no indication of what they are able to do in about the timber industry. In fact, during its six relation to getting that resource. Of course, the years in Government I do not recall the sleeper cutters in that hinterland area, where planting of any trees at all. In relation to the 32 they are hoping to get the rose gum from, are years before that, this State is now benefiting being left to wither on the vine. That was a to a large degree from the many trees planted very important industry. A large number of by the now Opposition when we were in people were employed in it. It is very Government. Big areas of softwood disappointing to see people just fobbed off, plantations are now being utilised. In my not talked to and not granted permits. They do particular part of the world, something like not know where they stand and they have to 11,000 hectares were planted. Hopefully, in take their equipment and whatever the very near future we will come up with a possessions they have away from the area in proposal to use that resource. There are order to try to earn an income in some other people working at present on a proposal to type of pursuit. Very often those people are have a sawmill put in place. In the Tuan area getting quite elderly—they are in their 50s and and all through the southern area of 60s—and they find it very difficult to adapt to Queensland, enormous areas are now some other form of work. benefiting from the plantations established by The World Heritage listing of north the coalition when in Government in the early Queensland rainforest was a debacle created 1960s. They are an important resource for by a Labor Government in Canberra. It saw Queensland. tourism as a panacea once the logging 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6035 stopped. That did not eventuate to the level forest but, having been involved in planting that was imagined. It has been something like some forest myself, I know pretty much what is 12 years and only a very limited amount of involved in forest maintenance. First, though, tourism is going on in some very specific one has to find land on which forest can be areas. planted. It has to have reasonable rainfall. The hinterland of Ingham contains Much of this land is valuable land. The attractions such as the Wallaman Falls. It was requirements for forest planting are very similar not until the previous Minister for Main Roads, to those of the sugar industry. In the past the member for Gregory, came up and there has been a lot of competition for this consulted with the council that we were able to particular type of country. There are probably start to build an all-weather road into that some ways around that, but I think that is region. It was done through a TIDS program. It something we have to work through. was essential that we be able to get people up The cost of planting is one issue. The there in wet weather. That program is ongoing. grass has to be suppressed for four to five It was put in place when we were in years. One just cannot simply plant a species Government. Graciously, I have to say that this and walk away from it. It has to be World Heritage listing had to go ahead. Of tended—admittedly in some small manner in course, the way to get around the problem the initial stages. Once the canopy develops, was the expansion of the tourist industry. As I the extent of tending is not as great as in the said, that did not come into being in the earlier stages. Of course, trimming has to be manner we thought it would. carried out to ensure the development of a Also, because of the lack of management good stem. That is another process that costs there are plenty of pigs in the area. We are money. seeing the infestation of sicklepod. Any individual involved in growing forests Neighbouring farms are having immense would have to have some other source of difficulty keeping those weeds out of their income, because forests are a long-term farming operations. It is of great concern to investment. It takes 25 to 30 years to realise those people whose land adjoins World anything on the investment. The other Heritage listed land that the management is important issue is that we actually want to extremely poor. It needs to be upgraded. Of guarantee that after growing these trees we course, with the Department of Natural will be able to harvest them. Money is invested Resources we have seen the demise of forest over a long period. It requires that additional rangers. Some of them have been expressing backing which is so important to anybody who concern to me about the management is going to try to do it properly. Forests in a process. Although this Labor Government had major program can generate some economies much to say about green issues once upon a of scale. We do not want there to be little time, it never really fulfilled those obligations. blocks planted all over the place. During the time the areas were logged, We certainly have to make sure that we they were taking something like only two trees can compete against those very efficient out of an area the size of a football field every operations in New Zealand, with its softwoods, 40 years. Now those trees are decaying. They and probably other countries. Pine mills almost really never grow into timber. They just fall to certainly include a drying process. It is not a the ground and die. I think that is a great loss. cheap operation. The capital investment at the When we harvest timber and allow those older Tuan and Caboolture mills is very extensive. trees to be taken out, we allow the younger That is the sort of investment we need in order trees to come up through the canopy. The to compete against the rest of the world. We species survives and goes on. need areas of 30,000, 40,000 and 50,000 One of the big issues was job losses. A lot hectares to ensure that there is sufficient of mills were closed down in the Ingham and resource to justify investment in the mill. There Ravenshoe areas. Unfortunately, those are some rainforest species being planted by workers were on a short-term program for a people up in north Queensland such as Errol very small amount of money. At the end of the Wiles, who is a real forest enthusiast. He is day, many of them had to leave the district doing an excellent job with those rainforest because there were no jobs. I know that there species. I believe that in the future they will were probably about 100 timberworkers in the have a part to play. Ingham district who were affected by that Harking back to the RFA agreement—it is process. not the type of agreement that members on I am not taking the Minister to task about this side of the House would have put some of the things he said regarding planting together. And the more that I hear about it 6036 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999 and the discontent of the nine mayors and the difficult issue that we must face? Or is there 16 shires who were involved in a meeting only some genuineness in this? I would like to hear a week or so ago - from the Minister exactly what the proposal is Dr Prenzler: Twenty-one mayors. all about, because there has not been a great opportunity for Opposition members to Mr ROWELL: Twenty-one mayors understand fully what it is really all about. I altogether? I am very interested to hear that have not seen any plans. Are they available? there were that many, because that Where are the areas going to be taken from? I demonstrates the enormous concern of those hear odds and ends about a few thousand people who represent areas that will be hectares here and a thousand there, but the impacted upon by the RFA agreement. areas that the Minister is talking about must be I listened to the very emotional speech quite substantial. And of course, they should made by the member for Noosa. That Boral be in a rainfall belt that will allow forests to mill at Cooroy will lose quite a considerable grow at a satisfactory rate. income, as will those people who work within Some of the forest areas that are that operation. It is going to be very tough for available are very marginal. And if we plant them. I know what happened to the displaced trees and they do not get the necessary timberworkers after the World Heritage rainfall to get them through the predicted debacle, particularly in my electorate. I believe period that the Minister is talking about, we that it is extremely important that the could find it quite embarrassing that, in 20-odd Government has a solution to that problem if it years or even sooner, the expected outcome is determined to go down that track. A load of will not eventuate. Trials have been rubbish was spoken by the member for Logan undertaken in wet areas throughout the about what we did or did not do in southern and northern parts of Queensland. Government. We did trials in north Queensland, and some Mr Mickel: You didn't do anything. That of the material grown was not satisfactory. It was pretty easy. just did not perform as it should have. Shell did Mr ROWELL: You would not be a number of trials in that district. I know that competent enough to get sawdust out of your some eucalypt hybrids have been developed, head. and they look quite promising. But "quite promising" has to be determined over a long Mr Cooper interjected. period. We cannot put the faith of the whole Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Reeves): industry in seedling developments that have Order! The member for Crows Nest! I remind occurred only in recent times, because we the member for Hinchinbrook to speak through cannot be quite sure whether they are going to the Chair. match expectations. That is a major concern of Mr Cooper interjected. mine. I would like to see more data on that before I would give any support to this Bill. Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The member for Crows Nest will cease interjecting. I know what the Government is trying to Mr Cooper: Altogether? do, but I do not think that it is reaching the required level of expectation. There is no Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Altogether. safety valve if things go wrong. The Opposition Mr ROWELL: The issue of planting is particularly concerned about that aspect of hardwood forests is quite important to the this legislation. So I would like the Minister to future development of those forests in give us a briefing on exactly what is proposed Queensland—whether it be in north and the areas that are to be planted. It is easy Queensland or southern Queensland. But the to cite very large areas and say, "This is where last thing that we want to do is raise the we are going to plant them." But even if they expectations of people. Of course, it is an are planted in a rainfall area that is suitable for enormous operation. In some instances, the growth over 25 years, we cannot guarantee land must be cleared and prepared. I have the outcome. We cannot guarantee that, seen those operations. It is very costly. There somewhere down the track, we will be able to is little doubt about that. But at the end of the supply the necessary level of timber to sustain day, we must be confident that those forests those sawmills. are going to grow at the expected rate. The Opposition is particularly concerned If we deny those mills the opportunity to about the sustainability of the industry. We do access hardwood from existing native forests, not want to see people wither on the vine, as I where do they stand at the end of the day? Is have seen happen under Labor Governments it a con job, as many members have said? Is it in the past. A lack of experience and a lack of just a political opportunity to get around a very understanding of what an industry is all about 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6037 has led many people to a very sorry end. I with Queensland's unique but common native have seen it happen too often in a couple of flowers and foliage, and I urge all members of instances in my part of the world. Parliament to recognise and to support the Mr Bredhauer: What instances? real, new job opportunities which are being created in that clean industry in the region as a Mr ROWELL: The World Heritage listing result of the company's ability to have resource of the Wet Tropics rainforests and what is security. happening in the hinterland of Ingham at the present time. Mr DAVIDSON: I rise to a point of order. I respect what the member for Nicklin is saying Mr Bredhauer: You go for it, Forrest! about the new jobs that are being created, but Mr ROWELL: You go for it! The member I think he should tell the House what he thinks would not know a road from a dirt track. about the jobs that are going to be lost— Ms Bligh: He's the Minister for Transport. Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! There is Mr ROWELL: He is the Minister for no point of order. Transport, and that is an indictment on him, Mr WELLINGTON: After considering all really. He would not know what he is talking the issues which have been raised in the about. debate today, I intend to support the Bill. Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The Mr Davidson interjected. honourable member is nearly finished his Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The speech. member for Noosa! Mr Mickel interjected. Mr Davidson interjected. Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The member for Logan! I suggest we let the member for Noosa will cease interjecting. member finish his speech. Mr Davidson interjected. Mr Mickel interjected. Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! I warn the Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The member for Noosa. member for Logan! Dr CLARK (Barron River—ALP) Time expired. (11.09 p.m.): This is the third day on which the Mr WELLINGTON (Nicklin—IND) Forestry Amendment Bill has been debated in (11.06 p.m.): I rise to participate in the debate this Chamber, and the contributions of on the Forestry Amendment Bill. I note that members opposite have confirmed yet again the principal objective of this Bill is to give for me that the only role that the majority of effect to part of the Queensland Government's them want to play in this House is that of plan for the South East Queensland Regional spoiler or scaremongerer or generally to Forest Agreement. I also note that there has denigrate the genuine commitment and hard been a lot of discussion during the debate work of a wide range of people to achieve the over the issue of jobs. I do not propose to go historic outcome of the RFA agreement. over all the issues that have already been What is it that fuels this anger and the at raised in the debate in relation to this matter. times vicious, even slanderous, abuse that has Instead, I take this opportunity to put on the been hurled across the Chamber during this record the great work that Cedar Hill Orchids debate? This is the behaviour of people who Pty Ltd is doing in my electorate in assisting know that they have failed. They hate to see people to find jobs. anyone succeed where they could not I think it is appropriate during this debate succeed—and fail they did. Those opposite that I refresh members' memories on Cedar had the opportunity to progress the interim Hill's activities. I remind honourable members RFA to a successful conclusion. They even that, a few months ago, the company won the had a date by which they could reach Sunshine Coast region's exporter of the year agreement, and that date was June 1998. award. I understand that, as a result of this However, they failed. regional forest agreement, that company has Now they go out into the bush, into rural employed an additional 12 people. I am towns and into council chambers intent on further informed that the company employs doing their very best to make sure that this three research scientists and that 99.7% of the Government's agreement does not work. They company's total sales are export guaranteed want it to fail. They want it to fail because that and all products have a quality guarantee. would suit their political purposes. Those I understand that the company's primary opposite say that they are concerned about business is supplying the international market the future of workers and regional towns, and 6038 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999 no doubt they do have some concerns, but I I want to go further and table this am quite sure that they would get great document because I do not believe that some enjoyment out of seeing the Government fail members opposite have read it. I believe they in what it is trying to do because they would have taken these broad generalisations and then be able to say, "Look at this Government decided that the agreement is no good. that could not get its act together. Look at this Mr Rowell: How many trees have you for a con job." planted? Mr Cooper: You are too cynical for words. Dr CLARK: That is very interesting, Dr CLARK: You will have to forgive me for because for the last 15 years I have been being cynical. I have not been here as long as planting trees in creek banks and on hillsides. I you. do not have any hesitation in saying that I Mr Cooper: You should have more faith. have probably planted as many trees as the honourable member. Dr CLARK: I should have more faith? That is interesting. A Government member: The difference is that you did it successfully. Mr Cooper: Ye of little faith. Mr Bredhauer: They got black spot. Dr CLARK: I am glad to hear the Dr CLARK: That is right, the papaws had honourable member say that because he, the black spot. I want to refer to section 2.13 perhaps, should have a little more faith in us. of the agreement, which reads as follows— Mr Cooper: I would love to. "To provide timber supply to industry Dr CLARK: Okay. Other speakers in this at the agreed volume for the 25 year debate have, I think very convincingly, pointed period logging will continue on State out the lack of consistency, the distortions and forests and timber reserves and leasehold the outright untruths which the Opposition has lands not included in the 425,000 ha tried to put forward in this debate—using reserve. language which, I might say, I find quite The balance of the area of crown offensive. Those opposite have described the hardwood forest may be logged once in agreement reached between the conservation general accordance with the schedule movement and the timber industry as "a attached. This schedule has been shabby deal","a sleazy deal", "a con job" and developed to ensure that the government "a cosy little back room job". These words were is able to deliver its commitments to the used by the Leader of the Opposition and they timber industry while avoiding logging on are insulting to the very many people who the areas of highest conservation value were involved in coming to this agreement. unless it is unavoidable to do so. The total In my contribution this evening, I want to area available for logging will be subject to focus on two particular aspects of the RFA two separate harvesting regimes (Part A which are particularly relevant to the Forestry and Part B) listed in the schedule. Where Amendment Bill and which demonstrate that any logging occurs within Part A (an area the RFA is not a con job. This amendment of approximately 80,000 ha) it will occur authorises the Primary Industries Corporation under current harvesting rules. Where to issue sales permits for 25 years to sawmill logging occurs within Part B it will occur owners based on items 2.9 to 2.13 of the under modified harvesting rules. These agreement which identify the volumes of modified rules, after making allowance for timber to be supplied over the next 25 years to the DNR Code of Practice (including the 28 mills in 12 allocation zones. habitat tree retention) will involve a I want to refer to this agreement in a little harvest of all the trees of commercial bit of detail because one of the things that has species that are 40 cm or greater at been asked time and time again in this debate breast height and that meet compulsory is, "Where are the details?" I want to refer to sawlog standards, known as 40 section 2.9 of the agreement, which specifies cm+diameter limit cut. It is understood the supply levels which are proposed. We are that the harvesting schedule has been talking about a supply level of 82,981 cubic developed based on SKED modelling and metres for the first year, then 54,619 cubic will be subject to further refinement metres for nine years and 49,119 cubic metres through operational planning." for the next 15 years which will be provided to The point of giving honourable members all the industry. That level of detail demonstrates those details is to refute the claims in this the kind of work that has gone into this debate that the agreement did not contain agreement. details, or that it was not based on any 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6039 scientific or reliable data. The SKED modelling Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! I remind that underpins the agreement is the same the member to speak through the Chair and to modelling for predicting timber volumes that refer to people by their correct titles. was used by the Opposition, because the Dr CLARK: If the member for Callide can same people in DPI and DNR do this work. It is produce some evidence from DPI to show that their data, and there is no reason to suspect I am wrong, I will apologise. that this data is not reliable. Mr Seeney: Done! Further to that, I want to draw honourable members' attention to some statements which Dr CLARK: Done! were made by the member for Crows Nest in Mr Mickel: You will wait in vain. this debate because he made great mention Dr CLARK: I think I will. A majority of small of the fact that the harvesting practices were logs will be taken, but we have not reduced reducing the minimum size of trees. I want to the minimum size. That was the basis of the remind the member for Crows Nest of what he agreement. It does not take a rocket scientist said in his speech because this is really to figure out that, if one is going to have a important. He said— reserve area, what is left will be logged more "The Beattie Government claimed intensively. That is understood. It is not a that no clear felling would be allowed matter of coming here and trying to dupe under its plan, but the harvesting anybody about anything. practices to be employed in the remaining Mr Cooper: That is stupidity. area of Crown forest able to be logged where the minimum girth size of millable Dr CLARK: No, it is not stupidity at all. logs is to be reduced so that every tree 40 In the time that I have left, I turn to the centimetres or greater in diameter will be question of hardwood plantations. Just as the harvested is virtually clear felling. It is Opposition did not want to know the details of cutting down the size of the girth, so that how the industry was going to be supplied with they can go for the smaller trees and timber for 25 years, it claims that there is no knock them down within five to 10 years way that the hardwood plantations will be at the most. But then there will not be any available in time for the transition. I think that it timber left to cut." is interesting to refer to the quote— I think it is quite shameful that the member for "Hardwood plantations are a new Crows Nest and the member for Callide—and I initiative of the Government to support am sorry that he has gone to the bar for a future expansion of the native forest drink— industry." An Opposition member interjected. I wonder who said that? Was it the Minister for Primary Industries? Was it the Minister for Dr CLARK: I am glad he has come back. I Natural Resources? Will the real author please saw a few gestures; I know what they mean. stand up, because he is sitting opposite? The member for Callide had better come back Those are the words of the member for to his seat because he will want to interject. Hinchinbrook. The point about this is— Mr Rowell: I agree. Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Reeves): Order! I remind the member to speak through Dr CLARK: He did not before. It seems as the Chair. though, during this debate tonight, he has changed his mind. Dr CLARK: The member for Crows Nest and the member for Callide should know that it Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Reeves): is standard practice with DPI to have a 40 Order! centimetre minimum girth. That is not reducing Dr CLARK: I am just making the point— it to 40 centimetres— Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The Mr Seeney: That is not true. member for Barron River will speak through the Chair. It would probably suit everybody if the Dr CLARK: It is absolutely true. member spoke through the Chair rather than Mr Seeney: It is not. look for interjections. Dr CLARK: It is true. Dr CLARK: I want to make the point that Mr Seeney: It is not. How many timber the Opposition members were fully supportive cutters do you know? of hardwood plantations. They talked about DPI Forestry looking to expand the plantation Dr CLARK: I challenge you to table base with hardwood species that they know to information to show that I am wrong. be viable, including Gympie messmate, 6040 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999 spotted gum, blackbutt and tallowwood. So legislation. As I said earlier this year, they left there is no doubt that those sorts of all the very important pieces of legislation in plantations can succeed. As we have heard the back paddock. tonight, through this agreement this Mr Bredhauer: It was too hard for them. Government is moving down that track by planting 10 million trees over five years as part Mr PALASZCZUK: As the Honourable of an $80m softwood and hardwood plantation Minister for Transport said, they would not program and establishing a hardwood timber make the hard decisions. All of those hard research and extension program. Yes, we do decisions were left to our Government. know where they are going to be planted. The On the issue of certainty and security, the strategy is based on four broad regions for biggest cry came from the people of western new plantations in south-east Queensland, Queensland who were involved in the cypress Miram Vale, Boonah/Beaudesert, pine industry. The coalition Government could Caboolture/Bundaberg, Kilcoy, Lockyer and not give the cypress pine industry in the Brisbane Valley. Those are the places Queensland security and certainty. When that where those plantations can be grown. issue was raised with me, and I could see the plight of those people out there who supported Just last week, the Minister for Primary a $30m industry, I took it upon myself to Industries came into this House and told us ensure that we gave those people there about expressions of interest that had been security and certainty. We did that. We called for for the planting of half a million delivered security and certainty to the cypress hardwood seedlings on an area of 1,000 pine industry with 15-year contracts. They had hectares. We are getting on with the job. I say been working on contracts that went year by to the member for Crows Nest: have some year. faith. We believe in what we are doing. We would not be selling out our rural industries. That is why I am so passionate about this We would not be selling out the timber piece of legislation, because I believe that, industry. So the member should also have when enacted, it will give security and certainty some faith, and we will see. to our timber industry and particularly our hardwood timber industry. That is why I was Hon. H. PALASZCZUK (Inala—ALP) very disappointed to hear the contributions of (Minister for Primary Industries) (11.22 p.m.), in many of the members opposite. At the end of reply: Before I discuss the contributions made the day, all the coalition members were doing by honourable members on both sides of the was politicking, trying to regain the hearts and House, I want to say a few things in relation to minds of the rural constituency in those seats many of the issues that were raised by that the One Nation members and the Opposition members, One Nation members Independent members won from them. At the and certain Independent members. I have end of the day, that means that, once again, been a member of Parliament for about 15 they are creating that air of uncertainty and years now. I have certainly travelled the State insecurity among those rural and regional quite extensively. I have spent quite a bit of communities who really, really depend upon time speaking to our primary producers the timber industry for their living. throughout the length and breadth of the State. In my travels since 1996, when the Let me reiterate that this Government is Federal Government changed and the about trying to give not only the timber industry coalition Government was installed in power, security and certainty but also other primary and the coalition assumed Government here industries because, at the end of the day, our in Queensland, the rural constituency believed primary producers have suffered for far too that they would be looked after. Unfortunately, long. This Government is trying to address they were not looked after. The further I many of the problems that they experience. travelled in this State and the more I talked We want to give our primary producers a with our rural producers, two words were sense of hope for the future. As I mentioned in echoed by those people. The rural producers my contribution during the tree-clearing wanted certainty and security. Those two debate, I make the prediction that, by the year words—those two issues—were never 2010, our primary industries will be worth $32 addressed by the Federal Government and billion as against $12 billion this year. they were never addressed by the coalition Other concerns were raised by certain State Government. In the two and a bit years members. I note that the member for that the coalition Government was in power Hinchinbrook raised a number of concerns here, in primary industries—which, of course, is about plantations of hardwood timbers— the engine room for a National Party whether there will be enough rainfall and Government—they passed two minor pieces of whether the soil types are correct and so on. I 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6041 would like to inform the member that a land when it came to reading the Bill. I have study was carried out by the Department of explained to the House that the Government is Primary Industries (Forestry), which ascertained about giving security and certainty to the that there is available land with the right soil hardwood timber industry. types with sufficient rainfall. That study was My backbench committee has taken the commissioned by Trevor Perrett when he was time to travel to areas within the RFA region the Minister for Primary Industries. I am quite and to speak with all the stakeholders sure that when the honourable member for involved. That was part of the consultative Hinchinbrook became the Minister for Primary process that the Government undertook prior Industries, he was also aware of that study. I to the signing of the RFA. Certainly that dispels am saying that, for our hardwood plantations, the comments of the member for Crows Nest, we have available land and soil types with who stated that no consultation with adequate rainfall. stakeholders took place. Quite a while ago, I The honourable member for Gladstone spent a number of days with the Forest raised a couple of issues. Let me assure her Protection Society doing exactly what my that there are courses for DPI Forestry and backbench committee did. Unfortunately, I Queensland Parks and Wildlife rangers believe that the Opposition has missed the conducted at the Gatton University. Each year, boat. Months and months ago this DPI Forestry take about 12 to 15 of these Government began talking to the people people through their Gympie establishment involved, as the members for Kurwongbah, and out of those about four or five are Logan and Barron River can attest to. employed each year. So there are a number The honourable member for Crows Nest of people who have been adequately trained spoke at length, but I do not believe that he to be able to take on those jobs. She also really addressed the contents of the Bill. His mentioned the issue of why, in the legislation, contribution was based on numerous press we talk about sales permits of up to 25 years. releases. Most of the other members opposite Obviously, that is the way in which the carried on in the same vein. I thought that their Parliamentary Counsel has drafted the contributions were repetitive to say the least. legislation. In the actual sales contract, which will be negotiated with individual mills, the I wish to read into Hansard an extract contract will run from 1 January 2000 to 31 from correspondence from the Queensland December 2024. Basically, that means that Timber Board, which I received very recently. the sales permit will last for the 25 years. The letter states— I understand that the honourable member "The member for Crows Nest claimed for Crows Nest will move three amendments to in his speech that the main peak players the legislation. I believe that if the honourable had been left out of the agreement. The member for Crows Nest listens very closely Queensland Timber Board endorsed"— now, my explanation might make him rethink Mr Cooper: They claimed that, not me. his position. Clause 4(3)(c) of the Bill will Mr PALASZCZUK: I am quoting the "require the permittee to give the State the first Queensland Timber Board. The letter right of refusal to an assignment or transfer of continues— the permit". The principal reason for the State having the first right of refusal to purchase a "The Queensland Timber Board permit is to endeavour to ensure that the endorsed the agreement after extensive associated saw milling business remains in its consultation between the timber board's current and rural community, continuing to chairman and deputy chairman and provide the same or improved local general manager. employment opportunities. We do not want Various issues within the agreement that business to move away from the rural were canvassed with industry members to community in which it is centred. We want it to seek a level of support or otherwise stay there. The Government has proposed this without declaring the long term intention amendment to the Forestry Act to require the or the agreement as a whole." permittee to give the State the first right of The operative phrase is "canvassed with refusal to an assignment or transfer of the industry members". The letter then states— permit. "The Q.T.B. members endorsed the I thank Government members for their agreement, these members represent very important contributions to the debate. 90% of the Crown sawlog volume in They certainly showed that they understand south east Queensland and therefore what this Bill is all about. Unfortunately, the bulk of the investment and members opposite really missed the boat employment opportunities. These 6042 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

members continue to support the State industry and conservationists. Under this Government/stakeholder agreement. agreement, the Government is growing jobs, Not one Q.T.B. member has protecting regional communities and resigned nor has written to the board preserving south-east Queensland's native expressing concern or a reluctance to forests. participate in the implementation of the Last week, the Premier and Deputy agreement. Premier outlined the Government's The Forest Protection Society is disappointment with the Federal Government's mentioned in the member for Crows response. For instance, the coalition's Nest's speech. I would like to point out business tax changes will end the immediate that the FPS is a timber communities deductibility provisions for investments in new organisation that is supported and funded timber plantations. Despite the pledges of the by the timber industry." Federal Forestry Minister, Wilson Tuckey, the Those are not my words; they are the words of Federal coalition Government has taken a the general manager of the Queensland decision that will undermine regional Timber Board, Rod McInnes. development. The silence and inaction of the coalition members in this place undermines With respect to the Nandroya sawmill, that regional development. In stark contrast, I will mill is owned by Boral Timber. Boral negotiated highlight the State Government's commitment an outcome that was acceptable to all sides: to hardwood plantations. Boral itself, the State Government and the Australian Workers Union, which is the body As honourable members would know, and that represents the workers of that mill. All a number of honourable members have parties agreed. mentioned this fact, previously the The comment of the honourable member Government announced its intention to plant for Crows Nest with respect to the 25 year 10 million trees and establish 5,000 hectares growth cycle for plantation hardwood, that is, of plantations. Last week, I told the House that that "any idiot would know that 25 years is not the Department of Primary Industries (Forestry) long enough", warrants response. Various advertised for expressions of interest for the members of Federal Minister Tuckey's propagation of half a million hardwood Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and seedlings. It is proposed that the seedlings be Forestry and the two well-respected scientific planted at Miriam Vale, in a region from organisations contained therein, namely, the Caboolture to Bundaberg, at Kilcoy and in the Bureau of Rural Sciences and the Australian Lockyer and Brisbane Valleys. The seedlings Bureau of Agricultural and Resource to be propagated are eucalypt species Economics, say that one can, in fact, grow including blackbutt, Gympie messmate, trees within 25 years. In September they spotted gum, white gum and a rose gum published a document to support that hybrid. Not only will this initiative help provide a statement. According to the honourable secure future for Queensland's hardwood member for Crows Nest, the scientific people industry but it will also stimulate growth in the from ABARE and the Bureau of Rural nursery industry. Sciences are idiots. Those were his words. I I return to Wilson Tuckey. In Queensland, am sure that they would be pleased to have we can be grateful that he had nothing to do such a tag from the member for Crows Nest. with the historic South-East Queensland The honourable member for Crows Nest Regional Forest Agreement. In Mr Tuckey's went on to talk about 25-year wood supply home State, the RFA has been disowned by agreements and other issues that are the coalition State Government and the necessary for industry in the context of that 25- conservation movement. year period, including log haulage costs and In conclusion, I reaffirm the importance of structural adjustment for a change of species this Bill. The objective of the Bill is to amend mix. Those issues are covered in the the Forestry Act 1959 and, specifically, to agreement in a number of areas, namely implement part of the RFA and extend paragraphs 2.2, 2.3 and 2.17. legislative exemption to the provisions of the Members opposite were united in refusing Commonwealth's Trade Practices Act 1974. to acknowledge the important role that their Those objectives relate to managing State- coalition colleagues in Canberra need to play owned forests to ensure ecologically in this matter. As its name suggests, the RFA sustainable development, to achieve efficient is an agreement. In Queensland, we have production and wood distribution and to achieved an historic agreement that was promote the stability of the processing signed by the State Government, the timber industry, including ensuring security of supply. 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6043

The contribution of the honourable scheme of things, 10 years is not much to ask member for Maryborough was worthy of for, and we are certainly asking for it now. consideration. Once the honourable member As Opposition members have indicated in for Maryborough thinks this issue through and their second-reading speeches, the coalition understands what this Government is does not support the Government's proposed about—trying to give our hardwood timber RFA for a range of reasons and, accordingly, is industry security and certainty—I hope that he committed to reviewing any forest will reconsider his decision to not support the arrangements introduced by the Beattie Bill. Government that are not in the interests of the Motion agreed to. forest industries and forest communities. I want to make that known clearly. However, we recognise that the Government of the day is Committee empowered to introduce legislation. With this Hon. H. PALASZCZUK (Inala—ALP) amendment we have sought to significantly (Minister for Primary Industries) in charge of improve the proposal being put forward by the the Bill. Government for the benefit of the timber Clauses 1 to 3, as read, agreed to. industry and, by virtue of that, the workers and communities that depend on that industry for Clause 4— their livelihoods. Mr COOPER (11.40 p.m.): I move the One of our primary concerns revolves following amendment— around the philosophy that underlies this Bill, "At page 4, line 23, '25'— and the Government's proposal, that logging is omit, insert— not compatible with the sustainable management of Crown native forests. The '35'." coalition begs to differ and is of the view that This amendment increases the so-called the cessation of logging in Crown native forest guarantee from 25 years to 35 years. is not desirable on economic, social or Incidentally, this is what the industry wanted in environmental grounds. That is a defining the first place. It was negotiated down. The policy difference between those on the Greens wanted to give it nothing; they just Government benches and those in the wanted to kill the industry dead. A compromise coalition. It is also a view supported by the was reached whereby the industry had no acknowledged and pre-eminent forest choice other than to agree, with a gun held to authority the Institute of Foresters of Australia, its head, to come down from 35 years to 25 Queensland Division. That body has some 120 years. I wish to deal with some of the members, including professionals working in comments by members opposite—some of forest growing, timber processing, forest whom know what they are talking about and management consultancies, forest planning, some of whom do not have a clue—about the conservation and recreation groups. A lot of its length of time and the 35-year time frame. I members are in fact top scientists and wish to read into the parliamentary record foresters within the State Government's very some of the issues relating to this own DPI, DNR and Parks and Wildlife Service. amendment. It referred to a joint Federal/State There are two major factors in the Bill that Government study and stated in its submission we are dealing with. One is the 25-year to Government— guarantee and the other is the 10-year "Coincidently, a major government exemption from the effects of the Trade study of forest-related taxa at risk in SEQ Practices Act. We support that. We want found that the greatest threat to taxa is guarantees. However, we want guarantees not posed by selective harvesting but by that mean something, not compromises. other factors not directly addressed in the Compromises sound all very well, but when we RFA process." look ahead 25 years, we see that most It went on to state— people—in fact, I would say all people—in this place will not be here. However, we would like "Most potential disturbances can be to think that the timber industry will be. We effectively managed by informal know that it needs more than 25 years, reservation or management prescription, because we deal with it all the time and we and in reality, managed production forests know how long it takes to grow trees. I ask are frequently able to offer superior anyone who thinks that it can take only 25 protection of biodiversity through years: if those trees are not ready, what will maintaining a management presence and happen? That is our worry. In the whole funding superior infrastructure. For 6044 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

example, fire was often identified as a fact that there is no incentive scheme yet significant risk to taxa. In truth, severe offered by the Government to overcome that wildfires are more likely in poorly managed issue and provide an income to the land- reserves than in managed production holder within that 25 years. Add to that the forests." backdrop of widespread uncertainty fostered One of our other concerns which is by the Beattie Government regarding the subsequent to that just mentioned is the time security of tenure and resource security in frames proposed by the Government for the terms of mandatory tree-clearing controls, the cessation of logging in Crown native forest and lack of right to harvest legislation and so on. a transition to a plantation-based resource. As I would like to make the point that our this clause stands, the time frame proposed is concerns regarding the 25-year time frame are 25 years. Ordinarily, I would ask the Minister shared by a host of others, including exactly how this time frame was reached and grassroots sawmillers, timber communities and on what scientific grounds. However, I will save professionals. I make the point that most of him the embarrassment of conceding that he these people were left out of the negotiations was not involved in the final negotiation of the which decided upon this 25-year period. For Government's proposed RFA and it was not instance, the Institute of Foresters of Australia, his department that made the Queensland Division, is also not convinced recommendation. The 25-year time frame has that 25 years is sufficient. This is what it had to not been carefully planned, is not based strictly say in its submission to Government regarding on science, is not supported by the experts the RFA and specifically the issue of the time and is not supported by any form of feasibility needed to establish plantations, where it also study or detailed strategy. I suspect it was the cited a Government research agency— best deal the Queensland Timber Board could "The Queensland Forest Research screw out of the three conservation groups Institute (QFRI) currently believes that logs against the backdrop of Labor's policy to close suitable for sawing (sawlogs) can be down the Crown native hardwood forest—a produced confidently on a 30 to 40 year policy where there were no ifs, buts or maybes rotation, although given adequate and a policy that definitely provided for the research and technological advances, this closure of Crown native forest. could possibly be reduced to around 20 The coalition is cognisant of the fact that years (pers. comm.) Research initiated as the Bureau of Resource Sciences and ABARE part Of the Queensland Government's recently released a report titled Opportunities Private Plantations initiative has identified for Hardwood Plantation Development in a number of problems that would need to South East Queensland, which identified land be addressed through a focused R&D suitable for plantations in south-east program before the possibility of Queensland. However, if we scratch the hardwood sawlog production from 20 year surface of the report and take a closer look at old plantations could be considered. the findings, we see that the picture is not so Issues include the optimum plantation rosy. One of the findings was that of the 1.4 silviculture, the development of improved million hectares available, 200,000 hectares genetic material, wood quality and generates plantation values that exceed 75% utilisation." of estimable agricultural values. Some 47,700 hectares generate plantation values that It goes on to say— exceed 95% of estimated agricultural values. "It is reasonable to conclude that the That finding is eventually distilled down to the development of commercial hardwood need for 20,000 hectares to provide the sawlog plantations in SE Queensland necessary wood supplies. That may be so, but would require a minimum lead time of 30 a number of factors have to be taken into years, even with an immediate financial account. commitment to the necessary R&D First and foremost, to achieve that requirements." plantation development on private land, the The submission goes on to give examples of Government would be asking land-holders to other transition strategies taking up to 60 years tie up their resources in a new industry for at and so on. I rest my case. I have heard from the very minimum a negligible net gain and up the other side of the Parliament that the 25 to 25% less than their current earning capacity. years would in fact be adequate. When we Putting that scenario against the long-term read what has been put by the other side in its nature of the plantation industry—returns on full context, it is in fact at least 30 years, up to investment are not made until the harvest of 35 years and, in some cases, up to 60 years. the crop in at the very least 25 years, and the As far as we are concerned, we believe that a 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6045 change from 25 years to 35 years is a very to give stability and certainty to the timber reasonable amendment to make. We believe industry, and that is what we are trying to do. all members of this Chamber should support Mr Palaszczuk: Security. that. An extra 10 years is really nothing in the scheme of things. It is everything as far as the Mr HOBBS: And security. The key is timber industry is concerned. If those opposite security and certainty. We are not going to be are really fair dinkum about a guarantee when able to get it in that short period of time. As they go on with this passion about how they the member for Noosa mentioned, the trees really want to support the timber industry, now have not even been planted. I was involved as is the chance to prove it. Minister with Trevor Perrett in trying to find 30,000 hectares for plantations. So we started Mr DAVIDSON: As the Minister knows, in that process. It is very difficult to find the land. relation to the Nandroya and Boral mills at Quite a few legislative changes would need to Cooroy, I raised issues in this Parliament last be made to enable that process to occur, and Friday about the impact the RFA I believe they have not been made at this announcement by the Premier on 16 stage. We are a long, long way from that September would have on many of the men stage. Having a 25 year sales permit for trees who work at that mill. Some of those men live that have not even been planted will create in the seat of Noosa; some of them reside in instability in the industry. the seat of Maroochydore; some of them reside in the seat of Nicklin, and some of them The timber industry has been through an reside in the seat of Gympie. In the last three enormous amount of anguish over a number months a number of those men have said to of the years since this process started. There me, "There is a commitment to plant 10 million was native title, the Trade Practices Act and a trees." They have asked me as their local code of practice that they went through. They member to find out where those trees will be did an enormous amount of work with the planted and where the plantation jobs will be. department in order to try to work their way through this very difficult process. There were Given that there are 54 mill workers who lots of negotiations that continued for long are about to lose their jobs, they are very keen hours into the night to try to reach some sort of to know where they may be relocating to if conclusion. At the end of the day, what the they apply for the jobs that have been industry really wants is security and stability. I promised and committed to by the Premier in believe that we cannot deliver that long-term the announcement of the RFA agreement— security with a period of 25 years. I would whether it be to further down the south-east certainly urge the Government to reconsider corner in the hinterlands of the Gold Coast, in the amendment before the Chamber to the Lockyer Valley, up around Harvey Bay, extend the period to 35 years. Mackay or further north in north Queensland. Mr SEENEY: I rise to support the A lot of those men considering future amendment moved by the member for Crows employment in the timber industry are really Nest. It would go a long way to addressing a concerned that, with the plantation lot of the issues raised in the second-reading announcement as part of the RFA initiative, debate by members on this side of the there has been no indication as to where the Chamber. It is particularly disappointing to me plantations will be. that the Minister chose not to reply to many of There has been no indication by the the issues that were raised in a very genuine Government, the Premier, the Minister way. They are very genuine concerns that are responsible for this portfolio or other Ministers held very sincerely by a large number of of the Government where the land has been people within the electorates that we acquired for those plantations or whether it will represent. They are concerns that are held be a partnership deal with the private sector very sincerely by a large number of people and where the land owned by the private who will be affected by this legislation. It is sector actually is. On behalf of those men who somewhat arrogant for this Government to live in Nicklin, Maroochydore, Gympie and come into this Chamber and introduce Cooroy, I ask: where will the proposed legislation and then refuse, in a plantations be for those 10 million trees that condescending way, to explain it. were part of the announcement by the Premier I raised the issue of why a complete on 16 September and where will the future withdrawal from native forests is necessary at jobs be? all. There is a particularly large body of opinion Mr HOBBS: I support the member for that native forests can be successfully Crows Nest in relation to the extension to 35 managed on a sustainable basis—on a years for the sales permit. The RFA process is perpetual basis—and they have been so 6046 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999 managed for many years. Yet, the Minister in about this legislation guaranteeing certainty. In his response to the second-reading debate reality, it does nothing of the sort. If we cut made absolutely no effort to address that through the rhetoric, the garbage, the fancy issue. The amendment that the member for words and the gobbledegook that is Crows Nest has moved—the extension of the continually sprouted by members on the other time from 25 years to 35 years—is the key side of this Chamber, we see that this issue. Yet, the Minister chose to totally ignore legislation adds to the uncertainty. it; he totally refused to make any attempt to There are two areas of uncertainty about explain or justify the position that is being which the Minister quite rightly said members adopted by the Government. I cannot help on this side of the Chamber became thinking that that is a measure of the somewhat repetitive in speeches at the arrogance with which this Government is second-reading stage. They became repetitive approaching the whole issue. because they are concerns of everybody. A number of backbenchers on the other Once again, the Minister chose not to address side read speeches that obviously had not them. been written by them. They had obviously been written by somebody else. They have The first area of uncertainty is whether obviously had a little team of researchers there will be enough timber available to beavering away trying to find all sorts of things provide the existing mills with a 25-year supply, that can be misconstrued. A number of given that an additional 430,000 hectares has Government backbenchers read speeches— been locked up and denied to the timber foremost amongst them is the member for industry. There has been no evidence Logan—to deliberately set out to misconstrue presented and no attempt made to justify the issues and to make a lot out of the issue of broad statement that all of the existing mills will security for the industry. The security of supply be provided with a supply of sawlogs for the for the industry would not be nearly the issue next 25 years from existing forests. It is just a that it is except for this philosophical broad statement that has no basis in data. No commitment to ending logging in native supporting evidence was presented. There has forests. There has been no attempt by either been no attempt to alleviate the growing the backbenchers who read those speeches or concerns in the timber business that that will anybody else in this debate, including the be quite simply impossible. Minister in his summing up at the end of the It is fine to stand up in the Chamber and second-reading debate, to address that key say that. It is fine to sit up on the 15th floor of issue. Nobody is prepared to stand up in this the Executive Building in a negotiation Chamber to try to justify it—nobody! The situation and say, "Yes, we will agree to that", Minister has had two opportunities, and he will but out there in the bush the people who know have a third opportunity in a moment. I will sit the bush and the industry are increasingly quietly and listen to hear if the Minister will coming to the conclusion that that is quite lower himself sufficiently to try to justify his simply impossible. It is quite simply an absurd Government's position in regard to that issue. suggestion that the mills will be able to access Nobody else justified the Government's a timber supply from the remaining areas of position. We saw some drama and some State forest for the next 25 years. theatrics from Government backbenchers Once again the Minister made no attempt reading speeches, but nobody—not one to address that issue in his reply to the member of this Government—is prepared to second-reading debate. I cannot help but stand up in this Chamber and address the key reach the conclusion that it is the absolute issue in this whole debate. The position that height of arrogance for the Minister to just sit this Government has taken is unjustifiable and here and listen to that position being put untenable. All those opposite know that. It is repeatedly by members who are genuinely an ideologically driven position that bears no concerned and who are putting that position relation to the science, that bears no relation on behalf of their constituents. That is their job. to the research and that bears no relation to Members come here and represent their the historical fact. It is a position that is being constituents very genuinely and then the driven by the ideological fruitcakes in the Labor Minister stands up at the end of the debate Left. All those opposite know it. None of those and makes absolutely no attempt to explain. opposite is prepared to stand up in this Either the Minister cannot do it through Chamber and debate it sensibly and logically, absolute incompetence or he chooses not to because they simply cannot. do it through absolute arrogance. I suggest There are two other issues that impact on that the Minister has an obligation to address certainty. As I said, much has been made the issues raised by members on this side of 7 Dec 1999 Forestry Amendment Bill 6047 the Chamber in their speeches at the second- brought up on a farm, I saw much timber reading stage. grown over many years and I was involved in The second area in which uncertainty is the harvesting of timber for a while—they will increased by this particular proposal relates to know that there is no certainty in primary the question of whether the plantations will be industries or primary production. For the available at the end of the 25-year time frame. Minister to say that he can guarantee that in That was dealt with over and over by members 25 years these plantations, wherever they may who contributed to the second-reading debate. be planted, will produce timber of sawlog It is a very real concern out there in the harvestable quality is in my opinion a little airy- electorate. It was dealt with by the member for fairy. Crows Nest when he moved this amendment. Many things can go wrong in primary I concede that in his reply the Minister production. There are droughts, floods, fires made at least some attempt to address that and pestilence. I cannot believe that the issue, but the arguments advanced to justify Minister can guarantee enough sawlog that position could hardly be called convincing. harvestable timber in 25 years. Thirty-five years They could hardly be of such merit that they as set out in the Opposition's amendment is a would instil any sense of security in the people more reasonable figure and I believe this involved in the timber industry who are putting Chamber should support that. their money up and risking their investment on As the member for Callide said, we this particular proposal. cannot even guarantee that what the Minister There have never been hardwood has left in the forest to be harvested over the plantations successfully grown in south-east next 25 years will provide enough timber. We Queensland. There are simply none that are of see no evidence of that. For the member for any significant size or any significant security. I Barron River to say that timber mills will start stand to be corrected. If that is not the case, I harvesting timber at 40 centimetres in invite the Minister to stand up in this Chamber diameter is an absolute joke. It is just not right. now and tell us where they are. I would like the Minister to tell me where in the Lockyer Valley these plantations are to be Mr Mickel: Seven hundred hectares. sited. Mr SEENEY: The figure of 700 hectares The CHAIRMAN: I listened to the was mentioned by a backbencher on the other contributions of the member for Callide and side of the Chamber who does not know how several other members on the Opposition side big 700 hectares is. He has obviously been with a great deal of patience after the second- given that figure by some researcher in the reading debate. We are now on the clauses, Labor machine. I invite the Minister to tell us debating specific proposals. While I am in this tonight where that 700 hectares is, because I chair I am not prepared to put up with the do not know and I have not met anybody else repetition I have heard so much about. The who knows where the 700 hectares is. The member is repeating himself now. plantations may be ready in 25 years, but I would not like to be betting on it because it is Dr PRENZLER: One Nation supports the only a hope. It is only a wish. It is a dream. amendment for the extension from 25 years to 35 years for the very good reasons I have put Mr Littleproud: More like 35. forward. I believe this will further guarantee the Mr SEENEY: Thirty-five years would build possibility that plantations will deliver on time if in a margin of safety, if nothing else. Twenty- we extend that period to 35 years. five years is by no means adding to security, Mr PALASZCZUK: The Government will which everyone quite rightly agrees is the main not accept the amendment moved by the issue for sawmillers. It is the main issue for Opposition simply because extending the term people in the timber industry. from 25 years to 35 years would in effect wreck Time expired. the agreement and plunge our hardwood Dr PRENZLER: I thank the Minister for the timber industry back into uncertainty. That is little plug he gave the Gatton campus of the the last thing I as Minister would like to University of Queensland. That timber course happen. It is on that point that I will not accept is certainly excellent and I thank him for saying the honourable member's amendment. so. One Nation will be supporting the A Government member interjected. Opposition's amendment relating to the Mr PALASZCZUK: Of course. That is change from 25 to 35 years. We do so for a exactly what the Opposition wants to happen. I number of reasons. will not go into that any further. I think I said as If honourable members have had any much as I need to in my reply to the second- experience in primary production—I was reading debate. 6048 Forestry Amendment Bill 7 Dec 1999

I reiterate for the information of the Mr DAVIDSON: I rise to a point of order. I Chamber that the 25-year period is the asked the Minister where these plantations cornerstone of the Queensland Government's were proposed. Could he advise the House plan for the South-East Queensland Regional where these plantations will be planted? Forest Agreement. This period was agreed to The CHAIRMAN: Order! There is no point by the Queensland Timber Board on behalf of of order. And I clearly heard the Minister say the native forest industry, the Australian that he had departmental advice that the Rainforest Conservation Society, the areas were available. Queensland Conservation Council and the Wilderness Society. Mr COOPER: I want to respond to the Minister, because he has quoted various Mr Hobbs: They're all greenies. groups—mainly conservation groups—as Mr PALASZCZUK: Those groups, along being satisfied with 25 years. All I can say to with the Queensland Government, signed the that is: they would say that, wouldn't they! South-East Queensland Forests People in the timber industry, and the Institute Stakeholder/Government Agreement on 16 of Foresters, want at least 30 to 35 years and September 1999, agreeing to specified up to 60 years. So why does the Government management arrangements for 25 years from not give them what they need, if it is fair 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2024. Under dinkum about giving them an industry at all? this agreement, there is provision for relevant I was referring earlier to the sawmillers to be given 25-year sales permits to recommendations from the Institute of guarantee their supplies of State-controlled Foresters. After saying that it needed at least hardwood sawlogs. 30 years and up to 60 years, it went on to These arrangements for the 25-year sales say— permits provide long-term certainty and "The IFA believes that an effective security for an industry that previously hardwood plantation base in SE operated amidst great uncertainty. Queensland will not be secured without: Scientifically based resource assessments ¥ a stated, long-term commitment by undertaken by DPI Forestry confirm the government (both Federal and State) availability of sufficient hardwood sawlogs to to provide the financial support for meet the guaranteed supply for the next 25 the development of plantations by years under the proposed sales permits. both private and public sectors; Current levels of supply to all sawmillers entering into 25-year sales permits will be ¥ government recognition that a maintained for the duration of these permits. genuine hardwood transition policy cannot rely on private plantation All harvesting in the State-owned native establishment programs alone forests of south-east Queensland will be done providing a secure base for a in accordance with the code of practice for hardwood sawlog industry, but needs native forest timber production to ensure that the nucleus of a government-owned these areas are harvested with minimal plantation estate to provide industry environmental impact and to leave a security; productive residual forest. There will be no clear-felling in these forests, and the ¥ government legislative reform to harvesting arrangements for the so-called 40- enshrine the rights of owners of centimetre-plus areas will also be consistent native plantations to harvest sawlogs with the requirements of the code of practice. of native species in the future." Nothing has been said about the right to In addition, let me reassure this House harvest. That is something that is of heart- that I have been assured that the hardwood burning concern to people in the industry. The plantations to be established as the supply report concludes with these remarks— source to take over from the native forests will be producing suitable hardwood sawlog "Without recognition of these material within 25 years. The first 1,000 requirements, the term transition strategy hectares of these hardwood plantations will be as outlined in the Directions Report must planted within this current financial year. Plans be interpreted for what it is, a euphemism for subsequent plantings in the following for the phase out of native hardwood financial years are also well advanced. There is sawlog harvesting and processing in no reason for any extension beyond 25 years SEQ." based on existing resource availability, That is how people in the timber industry establishment of new plantations and industry regard the agreement. They do not agree with support for the agreed arrangements. it. They know that it is a fake. They know that it 7 Dec 1999 Adjournment 6049 is a furphy. They know that it is a sell-out. It is financial year, there will be another 8,000 a sell-out to the Greens. That is all this machines operating in Queensland by the end Government ever did in the first place. That is of June. That represents a total of 12,000 new why it started this in the first place. That is why poker machines for this year. it has sold out those people. We are not on The major concern for Queensland the record as saying this ourselves. The residents is the fact that many of the new Institute of Foresters says it, and all the timber poker machines approved for operation will not mills and timber towns and shire councils with be located in established clubs and pubs; which we have dealt throughout this whole rather, they will be lining the walls of suburban process are the ones who tell us, and we are shopping centres and other venues with a the ones reporting back to this Parliament— general liquor licence. Since coming to office in The CHAIRMAN: Order! The member is June last year, the Beattie Government has now repeating himself. paved the way for a massive increase in poker Mr COOPER: They are the ones we machine applications. represent. That is why we are reporting back to Mr HAMILL: I rise to a point of order. The this Parliament—not from where we come from honourable member is misleading the House. but from where they come from. If someone This afternoon, we passed legislation to does not stick up for them, then we are going prevent the very thing that the member is to, and this Government will be proved wrong talking about. for selling out the timber industry. That is what Mr GOSS: For the first time in our history, is so tragic about this. I know that the Minister our State's gaming is now allowed in a range knows that is happening, but he has been of venues, such as restaurants. In my conned and caught up in this whole process. electorate alone, the number of poker That is the tragedy of it. We are supporting 35 machines has increased significantly over the years. past few months. Most recently, a former Progress reported. Sizzlers restaurant in a busy shopping centre has been converted to a tavern with 35 poker machines. The tavern is surrounded by banks ADJOURNMENT and ATMs, a busy 24-hour newsagency, fast Hon. T. M. MACKENROTH (Chatsworth— food outlets and a variety of other shops that ALP) (Leader of the House) (12.15 a.m.): I attract young people, families and gamblers move— alike. "That the House do now adjourn." The increase in the number of gaming machines combined with their increased accessibility is a major concern to people, and Gaming Machines it is of major concern to the viability of local Mr GOSS (Aspley—LP) (12.16 a.m.): junior sporting clubs that have relied on Many Australians, and probably quite a few gaming machine revenue for many years. One members, have bought a Scratch-It, put a bet junior club in my electorate has seen profits on a horse or put a dollar into a poker machine drop by more than $220,000 in the last year. at some point in their lives. However, every With less money for clubs, many sporting clubs year, more and more Australians fall victim to will have to cut back on the number of teams what has been described as the social cost of and coaches and will not be able to afford or gambling. And from what I have seen, the upgrade equipment and facilities as they have Beattie Labor Government appears to be done in the past. And no doubt there will be a turning a blind eye to these problems. Ten loss of jobs. That fate will no doubt befall many years ago, when I first entered Parliament, junior sporting clubs. poker machines were allowed only in However, it is not only junior sporting clubs Queensland's casinos. Today, around 30,000 that will suffer. The Productivity Commission, in poker machines operate throughout the State, its recent report into the hidden costs of and the number of approvals for new gambling, estimates that up to 400 people machines is on the rise. throughout Australia commit suicide each year. In a question on notice to the Treasurer, I Suicide is such a tragic thing and it is a great was informed that, in the 1998-99 financial waste of life. However, the Government does year, an additional 7,678 poker machines were not appear to be doing anything in an effort to approved to operate in Queensland. This curtail the rapid expansion of this problem. figure compares with 3,996 new machines We are still waiting for the Briskey report. approved between July and October this year. It has been promised so many times that it If approvals remain constant for the rest of the should be renamed "The Never-Ending Story". 6050 Adjournment 7 Dec 1999

Mr Beattie and his Government are happy to Most importantly, we have start-up accept the $250m boost to State revenue companies in the Narangba industrial estate. which is generated by poker machines, but When one spends some time on the estate, it they are quiet with regard to the fact that really comes home to one that Queensland is Queenslanders spend an average of $700 per the small job generator in Australia. That is capita on gambling every year. quite obvious on the Narangba industrial The Licensing Commission reports a flood estate because some of the business located of applications from people for general liquor in the special zoning include tanneries, licences. When local residents lodge appeals chemical manufacturers, treated timber and the matter goes to the Licensing Appeal manufacturers, animal feeds manufacturers Tribunal, the residents are totally ignored and and oil recyclers. the problem recurs. I must say that the These businesses have developed on the Licensing Appeal Tribunal's representative is estate by taking advantage of, firstly, the the rudest person I have ever met at a tribunal location. The estate is close to the airport and or a court. the Bruce Highway. This means that the Recently, Wayne Goss stated that he companies involved are close to their product wished that the Labor Party had never had its suppliers. The chemical manufacturers are poker machine policy. He claimed that he located close to live agricultural areas such as never envisaged that it would be as the Moree/Goondiwindi area, the Western widespread throughout pubs and clubs where Darling Downs and the Emerald area. A lot of they are too often accessed by people who the work involving the manufacture of can least afford to play them. agricultural chemicals was previously undertaken in Sydney. In moving to this estate Time expired. the companies are closer to their market. They also generate jobs for local Queenslanders. Narangba Industrial Estate Because the businesses on the estate are new businesses, they are operating out of Hon. K. W. HAYWARD (Kallangur—ALP) new premises. I spoke to the proprietor of one (12.21 a.m.): I rise to draw members' attention of the chemical companies and I was to the importance of the Department of State interested to see the modern laboratory Development's industrial estates program to facilities which are available. job generation in Queensland. Tonight, I want to take the opportunity to focus on the Most importantly, the estate provides Narangba industrial estate which is located on employment opportunities for the available both sides of the Bruce Highway after the skilled and trained labour force in the Boundary Road exit in the Caboolture Shire. Caboolture and Pine Rivers area. The estate is The estate is divided by the Bruce Highway, important to such a fast-growing area as but is joined by a recently opened bridge Caboolture. The importance of the companies across the Bruce Highway. This bridge is situated on the estate to the local community important because it provides good access to cannot be understated. A number of the one part of the industrial estate. companies are involved with local schools. Visits are organised to various companies by The estate provides job opportunities for the children of the Narangba school. Company local people. I estimate that currently around staff also visit the schools and carry out basic 600 people are directly employed there. The chemistry experiments to the delight of the estate has two business zonings, namely a students. The businesses also provide a general zoning and a special zoning. The source of revenue for local schools through special zoning is on the Deception Bay side of their support of local groups. the Bruce Highway. Time expired. Recently, the special zoning area has been expanded—I welcome that—and is well positioned for business undertakings. The Queensland Government Industrial estate has been able to attract interstate Relations Policy companies which have decided to relocate to Mr SANTORO (Clayfield—LP) Queensland. We also have companies which (12.26 a.m.): The Queensland coalition totally have relocated from the more developed rejects the State Government's claims that areas of Brisbane. These companies were Australian workers have suffered as a direct under pressure in Brisbane because of local result of the Federal Government's and the housing developments et cetera and needed previous State coalition Government's to find alternative areas in which to operate workplace relations laws. Both the Beattie their businesses. Government and the Federal Opposition failed 7 Dec 1999 Adjournment 6051 to provide the recent Senate inquiry with even For example, at a time when awards are one example of the abuse of workers resulting being re-regulated in Queensland with union from coalition workplace relations laws. I preference and mandatory union control of reiterate—not one example was able to be independent contractors, it is essential that the provided by the Beattie Labor Government or Federal system can provide an escape the Federal Labor Opposition. mechanism for employees who are interested Mr Braddy, Mr Beazley and Ms Kernot are in productivity, jobs and agreement making long on rhetoric and very short on evidence of rather than union control. There can be no joy the alleged abuse of workers and employees for Queensland from the actions of the Federal by coalition workplace relations laws. Since Senate and its industrial relations committee. those laws came into being when I was Unlike the Queensland Labor Party, the Minister, not one issue of abuse was raised in Federal coalition Government's "more jobs, this Parliament, in the media, with unions or in better pay" Bill was the product of an open other forums, yet those opposite still continue and transparent policy put directly to the with the rhetoric that those laws were abusive. people before the Howard coalition Government was re-elected in 1998. There The recent ministerial statement by was a mandate for it. In contrast, Queensland Minister Braddy is a sign that the ALP thinks Labor hid from the people of Queensland their that workplace relations is a political game. real motives, set up a flawed and self-serving State Labor obviously has such little inquiry after their election, and since then have confidence in the Federal ALP, Mr Beazley or proceeded to play the tune of their union Ms Kernot to deal with Federal legislation that mates. It is noteworthy that Democrat Senator they are having to use the Queensland Murray, in his Senate committee report in the Parliament to speak on Federal legislation. "more jobs, better pay" Bill tabled in the The Queensland Government should be Senate on Monday, stated that the 1996 Act concentrating on more important things and, by implication, the Queensland coalition relevant to Queensland than the machinations 1997 Act, had been successful. That is a of the Senate in Canberra and ALP/Australian reference to the very reforms that the Democrat posturing on Senate committees— Queensland Labor Government has torn things such as the ever-increasing Queensland down. Will Minister Braddy join with the Federal unemployment rate and why it is moving in the Democrats and laud the success of the 1996 opposite direction from the national Act and its template reform in Queensland? Of unemployment rate. That is the real issue course not! I suspect that he is only interested which the Beattie Labor Government refuses in playing a game, not the real issues. to deal with. The Bill, which has now failed to pass It is a disgrace that the Beattie Labor through the Senate, would have provided a Government would support in the Queensland continued safety net award regulation of Parliament the blockage in the Federal Senate wages and conditions of employment for the of industrial reforms which have helped the low paid and disadvantaged workers; country reduce its unemployment rate and continued access to uncapped negotiated pay provide higher real wages on the back of increases and improvements in conditions of higher productivity. It is as shameful as the employment and productivity for workers Queensland Government re-regulating the making collective or individual workplace industrial relations system in this State, as it agreements; continued rights to non- has done in its first 12 months in Government. discrimination, to freedom of association and The Queensland Government keeps on doing to equal pay for work of equal value; continued just that. access to compulsory conciliation and If ever there was a need for further compulsory arbitration on award-regulated sensible industrial relations changes to come issues; a continued independent, resourced from Federal Parliament, it is now—at a time and effective commission; continued rights for when State Labor Governments are re- workers to collectively associate or bargain, as regulating the system and rebuilding union well as rights to individually bargain without power. For example, at a time when the coercion; and continued operation of an Queensland Labor Government has taken employee no-disadvantage test. away the right of small business to be They are the sorts of conditions that were exempted from unfair dismissal laws for 12 contained within that Bill—conditions that are months when employing new employees, it is certainly not recognised by members opposite essential that Federal unfair dismissal laws and conditions that would have led to the provide a better and fairer deal to small creation of more jobs right throughout Australia business. and, indeed Queensland, but conditions that 6052 Adjournment 7 Dec 1999 will now not prevail and not assist the ALP bring with them their own potential for disaster achieve its 5% unemployment target. In the if they are not managed properly. The end, the big losers are Queensland workers. students of the Murarrie State School also Time expired. provided a pictorial for that calendar, and were well represented tonight at the award ceremony. This Fantastic Century Schools History BP, Shell, Incitec, Rhone Poulenc and Competition; Gateway Industries Community Queensland Cement, which are members of Safety Calendar 2000 the Gateway Industries Group, along with the Mr PURCELL (Bulimba—ALP) Department of Emergency Services, put (12.31 p.m.): I would like to congratulate a together that calendar, which was launched couple of schools in my electorate whose tonight. It was designed to act as a constant students have done themselves proud, their reminder against hazard at work and in the parents proud, and their fellow students proud. home. It will be distributed to households The students of those schools entered the neighbouring the Gateway Industries Group's This Fantastic Century Schools History work sites. Each month of that calendar Competition. In the pictorial section, a $1,000 features an excellent safety message and prize went to the Hemmant State Primary students from local primary schools, to of School. At that school, Years 3,4 and 5 which are located in my electorate, put a great students compiled a picture book of vibrant, deal of effort into illustrating each message. colourful drawings that give a very real sense It is particularly timely to launch the of the life and history of the school. The picture calendar now. Traditionally, the Christmas book ranged from a sombre image of the holiday period can be a particularly dangerous Founding Fathers in 1864 to a bright picture of time for inquisitive children, as they spend Years 3, 4 and 5 students in 1999. I whole days at home and have a lot of time on congratulate those students on the wonderful their hands. In fact, over 70% of the 26,000 work they did on that pictorial. calls made to the Poison Information Centre Also, the latest technologies were put to each year relate to children who have use by Norman Park State School Year 7 swallowed or come into contact with chemicals students. Their entry won the $1,000 during the summer holiday period. I encourage multimedia award. Melissa Walker, David everybody to pay careful attention to the Kinder and Billie-Lee Malcolm presented their calendar's safety message and to be vigilant school's history with special effects that about the potential hazards inside and outside included the school bell tolling, animated the home. talking heads and the schoolboy howling while I would also like to reiterate my he was getting the cuts. Also, Year 2 students congratulations to those two schools, the of the Norman Park State School entered a principals and the teachers on taking the time pictorial of students during the 1920s, the and effort to encourage the children to enter 1960s and the 1990s, which was highly their drawings in such competitions so that commended. they can show their skills and show off their This year, the Hemmant State School is schools. 137 years old. It is the oldest continuously operating State school in Queensland. John Christianson is the principal of that school, and Native Vegetation Legislation I would like to congratulate him on the Dr KINGSTON (Maryborough—IND) marvellous work that is doing with the (12.36 a.m.): I wish to talk about the non- students. The Norman Park State School will effectiveness of top down legislation with be 100 years old next year. Val Thomas is the particular reference to Government-imposed principal of that school. Lately, she has been a native vegetation legislation. Since European bit crook, so Carolyn Waterson is currently the settlement, the Australian landscape has acting principal. changed. Unfortunately, in some areas land I would also like to mention some awards degradation has occurred. However, the that were given to two schools in my causes of land degradation are multifaceted. electorate. The students of the Hemmant Rabbits have been a significant cause of land State School were awarded a prize for their degradation and, in arid areas, cloven-hoofed pictorial work for the Gateway Industries domestic animals have altered the floral Community Safety Calendar 2000. They drew composition. pictures to show children the safe way to Professor Henry Nix, a world-renowned handle fire and chemicals. Although chemicals natural resource use scientist, reviewed land and fuels are essential to our daily lives, they degradation in Queensland. He concluded that 7 Dec 1999 Adjournment 6053 the majority of degradation—in fact, 90%— through enthusiastic rural land holder occurred in the first 30 years of settlement. In participation. Such participation will not be each area, the first generation of settlers forthcoming in a cooperative spirit if the applied European technology to our more Government continues down a planning fragile soils. Professor Nix's conclusion was instrument path." that research and education were essential World history has constantly shown us that and should be increased and continued. command policies do not work. For example, it In August 1995, the New South Wales took two years under a communist command Government issued the State Environmental regime for Laos to go from a rice exporter to a Planning Policy No. 46—Protection and net rice importer. I could quote many more Management of Native Vegetation—or SEPP examples, but I will not. The New South Wales 46. The aim of this policy was to prevent the Farmers Federation continued— inappropriate clearing of native vegetation. "SEPP 46 has been a disaster in That was to be achieved by requiring the conservation terms for trees in New South consent of the director-general of the Wales." Department of Land and Water Conservation before any native vegetation could be cleared. SEPP 46 was repealed on 1 January 1998 The consent would be given only after each and replaced by the Native Vegetation proposal had been assessed to ensure native Conservation Act of New South Wales. I hope vegetation was protected and managed in the that this Government has taken notice of what environmental, social and economic interests happened in New South Wales and is looking of the State. What a bureaucratic nightmare! for a bottom-up policy in native vegetation. The New South Wales Farmers Federation was strongly critical of the Cairns Minerals and Lapidary Club legislation and its application. I would like to Ms BOYLE (Cairns—ALP) (12.40 a.m.): quote some of its statements— Last Saturday, I was invited to officially open "The legislation was unnecessarily the renovated and refurbished premises of the confrontational, creating a negative Cairns Minerals and Lapidary Club. I was attitude to the retention of native expecting a pleasant afternoon. I was only the vegetation by land managers; newly elected member for Cairns when I first the command and control, conflict met the newly elected President of the Cairns generating, top down planning instrument Minerals and Lapidary Club, Mr Bill Reece. He approach typified by SEPP 46 is is a retired gentleman who is prepared to offer unacceptable to the members of this his time and considerable efforts to promote association; the Cairns Mineral and Lapidary Club. our association proposes a regime As it turned out, this was more than just a which recognises a bottom up approach pleasant occasion; it was a special occasion. and the primacy of education and Through the efforts of Mr Reece and the training; executive of the club, funds were made available through the Gaming Machine it is impossible to meet all the Community Benefit Fund, the Reef Casino compliance criteria and achieve an Benefit Fund and the Cairns City Council. I am unconditional approval; pleased to say that I too have added my the native vegetation that SEPP 46 support to the upgrading of those premises. protects was left through past good land They have been refurbished to allow for the management practices. SEPP 46, different work areas that are required. The therefore, has the effect of rewarding land machinery that is available to students and managers who have previously heavily recreational participants in the club has also cleared their country and penalises those been upgraded. A large display area caught who have not; the eyes of many people who attended the open day. A modest shop sells mementos for SEPP 46 with its negative command those of us who have a particular interest in and central approach with no incentives gemstones and who take pleasure in jewellery. for proactive voluntary management of Even more importantly, those interested in arts native vegetation offers no positive and crafts related to minerals, such as motivation for farmers to undertake native sculpting, carving and silversmithing, were vegetation protection and regeneration; catered for. The jewellery and, indeed, the with a large area of the State skills of the artists that were on display were privately owned, any effective well beyond what one would have expected conservation can only be achieved from a recreational environment. 6054 Adjournment 7 Dec 1999

A great number of people from around important problem for members of clubs such Cairns attended the club's open day to see as the Minerals and Lapidary Club. what was going on. It was especially pleasing It was also apparent that the upgrade of to note that they were people of all age the club's premises is not an end in itself. It groups. Certainly, senior citizens and other has opened the door to the expansion of the retired people who clearly have taken a long club's services in all kinds of ways. For interest in the minerals of far-north example, it has allowed the club to offer tuition Queensland attended. However, it was also services to younger members of the clear that younger people and their children community and newer members of the club were fascinated by the amazing rock who are interested in mineral exploration and formations, the patterns and the diversity of usage. the minerals of far-north Queensland. I congratulate Bill Reece and others like A couple of serious issues were spoken him who give of their time, their effort and their about on Saturday, not least of which is money. I also congratulate the club's executive accessibility for recreational groups such as the and all its members who have had the faith Cairns Mineral and Lapidary Club to areas now and the commitment to continue with the under native title. While those groups have project to refurbish the club's premises. They previously enjoyed easy access, they are are now seeing the fruits of their labours. concerned about how they will obtain access Those people bring great benefits Cairns, not to certain areas of interest under the new only directly through their activities as a mineral rules. and lapidary club but also through the This is an issue for far-north Queensland preservation and valuing of our history. The in particular, because many of our interstate club provides a very safe, important and visitors want to enjoy the occasional day or two enjoyable activity for members of the fossicking. Of course, those people do not community. May we all wish them well in their have the time or the resources to go through future endeavours. extended or complicated procedures in order Motion agreed to. to be permitted access to suitable areas to do that. I am hopeful that in the near future the The House adjourned at 12.45 a.m. Government will resolve this minor although (Wednesday)