FISHERIES (FURTHER AMENDMENT) BILL

590 COUNCIL Tuesday. 28 April 1992 conducted by walking through and examining Port Fairy, where I spoke to abalone divers with forests. The research establislunents are starved of whom I am acquainted. People think diving for funds. The additional revenue collected from the abalone is a glamorous profession, but the divers fishing industry should not go into the consolidated have a hard life. Every time they dive they risk revenue but should be allocated to the research getting the bends and their working life is very establishments. short. It is true that they make large amounts of money, but they do so for only a short period. like Mr Mier and Mr IVictoria is one of the few places in the world that time it is not much good increasing the penalties if still has a viable abalone industry. The abalone resources are not allocated to the officers who are resource is dwindling and controls must be placed required to control the industry. The fisheries on the catch. It is not acceptable for abalone to be enforcement staff, who are understaffed and lack fished out because of the demand for it overseas. boats and surveillance equipment, perform a Victoria should not allow this valuable industry to difficult job. go the same way as the abalone industries in other parts of the world. The fishing portfolio is extremely difficult to administer. When I was the Minister in charge of Practically all the witnesses that appeared before the fishing I found it an extremely confused area. I was fishing industry inquiry expressed concern about the given conflicting advice by various experts. It was need to protect the resource and ensure it is not lost extremely difficult to make correct decisions. to future generations.

Mr Mier pointed out that various Ministers have The Bill introduces a per fish penalty for the illegal been in charge of the industry over a number of possession of abalone. That provision will assist in years. The public accepts that controls need to be stopping the poaching of abalone. The officers applied, and the government must look to the future responsible for the policing of illegal fishing told me and allocate money for research so that the fishing some amazing stories. Apparently poachers come in resource is preserved for future generations and so their boatloads and catch enough fish to supply that ordinary men and women can take boats out on restaurants and other fishing outlets. They undercut the water and fish to provide for their families or for the price that professional fishermen receive for their sheer enjoyment. catch and they have a Significant effect on the industry. I hope the government will introduce legislation in the next sessional period that will incorporate some It has been suggested that stricter laws should be of the proposals suggested by Mr Mier and by the imposed and that restaurants should be required to opposition. I am concerned that if changes are not produce dockets verifying from where they made future generations will not be able to enjoy purchased the fish so that inspectors could ensure Victoria's fish resource. the purchases were made through the proper channels. Many of these people go out in their boats Hon. C. F. VAN BUREN (Eumemmerring) - I and catch boatloads of fish. They are not catching support the Bill. like Mr Mier, I was also a member them for their own consumption, and it would be of the Natural Resources and Environment preferable if bag limits ensured that fewer fish were Committee, which inquired into the fishing industry. taken. A general concern raised by many people who presented submissions to the inquiry was the need Everyone involved with the inquiry agreed with the to preserve the fishing resource and ensure that the concept of bag limits because the genuine amateur industry was protected from illegal fishing. Many fisherman, such as Mr Mier, goes out in his boat to concerns were expressed about people who fished catch a few fish and enjoy himself. He does not take without having fishing licences. That is a problem too many fish away - just what he needs. He does not just for the fishing industry but also for the not take them in a greedy fashion just because they tourism industry because many Victorians travel to are biting, but that is not so with others. The concept fishing resorts to enjoy fishing. of bag limits was very much approved by the inquiry. During the course of the inquiry I had the opportunity of travelling around the State. I visited Since 1988 catch quotas have operated in abalone different towns in the Western District, including fisheries. The quotas are determined on an annual FISHERIES (FURTHER AMENDMENT) BILL

Tuesday, 28 April 1992 COUNCIL 591 basis and have helped in stabilising commercial into what catches have been taken. It would be harvesting practices in the industry. However, there beneficial if groups such as fishing clubs kept continues to be a significant problem with records of what fishing was done and where so that commercial practices and they need to be controlled. they could be collated to provide some knowledge of what fish are available where. Poaching or illegal netting is another major problem. When the fish spawn, the fishermen put nets across In some fishing areas amateurs told members of the the spawning areas and catch many of the fish. This committee that no fish at all were biting but then the taking of undersized fish stops the whole breeding professionals told us fish were available but were cycle. After speaking to people who have been spawning in a different area. Despite those involved in the fishing industry for years, it appears differences, there was an amazing harmony between that illegal netting is now a major problem. the two groups.

Abalone poaching has been a major concern for The professionals set themselves voluntary codes. years but it has now reached a new level of For example, during the Christmas, Easter and sophistication. The poachers have a full illegal holiday seasons, they would not fish in certain areas operation which includes middlemen. Various to ensure that fish were available for the people who people are involved in the crooked dealing, fish in these areas while on holiday. including those selling the fish on the market and getting the abalone for a high price. It is not simply a The evidence provided to the committee proved that matter of fishing offshore in their boats, these people the fishing industry has a big role to play in tourism have set up a whole production line. because people going to their favourite fishing spots during the summer months ensure that little country Many people from other countries do not towns are maintained by patronising the motels, understand the need to protect the abalone resource pubs and little businesses. and they have a tendency to take what they can without concern. They even take other people's Stamping out the people who are doing the wrong abalone. Honourable members have read in the thing by the industry is most important, and for that newspapers of shooting incidents and virtual reason I commend the Bill to the House. warfare within the fishing industry because of this problem. Hon. P. R. HALL (Gippsland) - The Bill is unusual in that the two amendments it makes to the The government is attempting to address the Fisheries Act are both industry driven. That may not problem but it is not enough for the Department of be unusual in itself because industry often drives Conservation and Environment to increase changes in legislation, but in this case the industry is surveillance; increased penalties should be advocating that its members pay additional levies to introduced. One way of penalising these people is the government. I do not think too many industries through an additional per fish penalty which will would be prepared to compel their members to pay enhance the court's ability to apply appropriate additional government levies in this particular penalties to all parties involved in the illegal economic climate, but the Victorian Fishing Industry operations. The courts must have the power to do Federation has advocated that course and, I might that, and the Bill provides those powers. add, for good reason.

It is most important that illegal fishing and poaching Clause 3 requires the holder of a master fisherman's is stamped out because they are the two major licence or processor's licence to pay a levy of $150 on problems facing the industry. The report produced top of previous licence charges. The levy paid by the by the all-party Parliamentary committee studied abalone licence holder will be an additional levy of the problems in the industry generally through $500, and although I understand the levy is to be public hearings and heard of the value of the paid directly to the government as part of the industry and the consequences of these problems. renewal of its fishing licence, it will be passed back directly to the Victorian Fishing Industry Federation. The hearings highlighted not only the need to protect the resources but also for studies to be done The second-reading speech explains that the on what resources are available. I agree with federation's major source of funding is the Mr Mackenzie that, apart from some recordings 15 per cent levy applying to most commercial taken by professionals, no studies have been done fishing licences, and the additional $150 surcharge FISHERIES (FURTHER AMENDMENT) BILL

592 COUNCIL Tuesday, 28 April 1992 for master fishermen's licences and the The poaching of abalone has been the subject of $500 surcharge for abalone licences will significantly debate in this House on several previous occasions. boost the funding of the federation. In a recent Budget debate there was an extensive discussion of the issue of abalone poaching. At that In his second-reading speech the Minister said that time the House was debating a Bill that increased funding for the federation will be increased from abalone licence fees to $25 000 a year. That is a approximately $90 000 per annum to approximately Significant amoWlt to be paid by holders of abalone $240 000 per annum. Since its fOWldation in 1989 the fishing licences, but one appreciates that it is a Victorian Fishing Industry Federation has done a lucrative industry; there are substantial returns for sterling job in representing its members and abalone divers, and they are prepared to pay those bringing to public attention serious issues that fees. At the same time, they expect some return for concern the industry. the fees they have paid in the form of government assistance in stamping out the illegal poaching of Since I have been a member of Parliament I have abalone. received numerous reports from the federation covering areas such as scallop, abalone, rock lobster Abalone poaching remains a significant problem. I and shark fishing and methods of fishing. All those was impressed by a report that was completed by reports have been produced by the federation and the Abalone Subcommittee of the Victorian Fishing have provided valuable input, in terms of Industry Federation. That report, Resource Protection knowledge and information, to the public debate on for the Abalone Fishery: Reform to Penalties and Other the many fishing issues. Enforcement Matters, is dated JWle 1991. If one has an interest in this subject I suggest it is a very There have been many public debates on issues worthwhile report and I recommend that relating to the fishing industry. In many respects the honourable members obtain a copy and read it. The federation has been doing the work that one would report was produced entirely by the industry at its think should be the responsibility of government, own cost, with the abalone divers in Victoria that is, research into the sustainability of the prOviding something like $9000 towards its industry. It is commendable that this industry is production. That is commendable. prepared to ensure its future by putting in the money and doing the research work to ensure it The report points out the state of the industry and remains viable in the future. says that in the financial year ending JWle 1990 Victoria exported $40 million worth of abalone. I have received representations from some However, more alarming was the concern that the fishermen who object to having to pay the extra $150 estimated quantity of illegally harvested abalone levy that will be applied to their licence renewals. I was about 50 per cent of the total allowable catch - have some concerns about adopting the principle of that is, some 700 tonnes of abalone with a beach imposing a compulsory levy on their licence fees. price of $10 million. One could liken the payment of such a levy to compulsory unionism, so that those people become It is of further concern that the report highlights that part of an industry federation. 60 per cent of the illegal catch is Wldersized fish. That poses a serious risk to the fragile balance of the I am concerned at the principle of imposing this industry. particular levy in addition fishing licence fees. However, knowing that that levy is going to the As has been stated by previous speakers, the abalone Victorian Fishing Industry Federation, and knowing industry has been self-disciplined and wise in how wisely it has spent money in the past to regulating the amoWlt and size of the fish it takes. It enhance the industry, I am prepared to accept that is concerned to ensure its resources are preserved the levy should be paid by all holders of fishing and it has been responsible in taking measures to licences. ensure the industry continues, certainly in the near future. Clause 4 of the Bill provides for the imposition of an additional penalty on persons taking abalone The report also refers extensively to the various illegally. I have listened to the comments made by methods of illegal operation. I heard Mr Mier talking previous speakers on both sides of the House about some of those methods. It also refers to the concerning the illegal poaching of abalone and I market outlets for illegal operators, both in Australia agree with their comments. and overseas. It is of concern that consumers and FISHERIES (FURTHER AMENDMENT) BILL

Tuesday, 28 April 1992 COUNCIL 593 some retail outlets in Victoria accept illegally taken has done in producing reports such as this. abalone. Advances in stamping out the illegal fishing of abalone is largely the result of the subcommittee. Its The report also refers to the problems of detection work has gone a long way towards ensuring that and the apprehension of offenders. There are some this valuable Victorian export industry remains real concerns in that regard. There are very viable and strong. It would be easy for divers to sophisticated operators who will use whatever exploit the industry and make quick money means they can to deceive the people trying to overnight, but their efforts have been enforce the law. self-diSCiplined and sincere. They should take full credit for the provisions set out in clause 4. The report also compared the penalties that can be applied to illegal operators within the industry in When the Bill was before the other place it contained Victoria and other States. I was interested to learn a clause relating to the prohibition of commercial that Victoria has more lenient measures compared fishing in Tamboon Inlet. I am delighted that the with South Australia, where the conviction for government agreed to omit the clause because there certain offences can result in penalties up to 10 times had been no consultation with the people who fish higher than those that currently apply in Victoria. in Tamboon Inlet. I could not have agreed to the passage of the Bill if that provision remained. I The report made nine recommendations to assist in understand the clause is now in a separate Bill that improving methods of detection and apprehension will be debated in the other place and then and the penalties to be applied. Several of those introduced into this House. recommendations are now being taken up by the Department of Conservation and Environment. A I hope the government will consult with the two or further recommendation deals with the imposition three professional fishermen who will be affected by of a per fish penalty for illegal possession of abalone; the closure of Tamboon Inlet. There must be that is the subject of clause 4 of the Bill. consultation with these people before the House debates the future closure of Tamboon Inlet. I raise a query with the Minister for Conservation Although I have some concerns about the and Environment - and he might find time to compulsory membership of the Victorian Fishing comment on it during the debate or at a later time. Industry Federation and clause 3 which will impose Clause 4 of the Bill states: a higher levy on fishermen, I believe the federation will use the money wisely. It has performed a great Any person, other than the holder of an abalone job for the industry in the past and I am sure it will licence, who has in his or her possession abalone in continue to do so in the future. I am pleased to excess of the bag limit fixed under the regulations, is support the Bill. upon conviction for an offence under the regulations liable to an additional penalty ... Hon. G. P. CONNARD (Higinbotham) - I join the debate because Higinbotham Province is I question why a person is liable to only an contiguous to Port Phillip Bay running from additional penalty. Why is a mandatory penalty not Mordialloc to Brighton. Therefore, I am conscious of applied? Every speaker on this Bill has expressed the needs of the bay and of members of the fishing serious concerns about the poaching of abalone and industry. Over many years professional and the need for stringent measures to reduce the illegal amateur fishermen from the Mordialloc Creek area activities within the industry. It seems to me that, have lobbied and advised me, and I refer rather than making a person liable to an additional particularly to the Pompei brothers, Jack, Sal and penalty, we should consider making a penalty Joe, who have been associated with Mordialloc mandatory as it is for holders of abalone licences. I Creek and fishing in the bay as boat builders, am told that if a diver has three offences against him professional fishermen and advisers on tourism. he faces a mandatory loss of his licence. I would They told me the Department of Conservation and appreciate a response from the Minister regarding Environment is not very good at looking after the the use of the words '1iable to an additional penalty" bay for the bulk of its users, particularly professional instead of making the penalty mandatory. fishermen and sporting and amateur fishermen.

I commend the Abalone Subcommittee of the Jack and Sal Pompei have been professional Victorian Fishing Industry Federation for the fishermen all their lives. Sal Pompei is annoyed with responsible attitude it has displayed and the work it the imposition of the levy because he has been a LIBRARIES (AMENDMENT) BILL

594 COUNCIL Tuesday, 28 April 1992 professional fisherman for 50 years and now just as the wrong position. I have raised this issue in the wants to earn a living from the bay. He does not past but nothing has been done about it. want to stretch himself too far or be a burden on the public purse. He has a boat, he fishes regularly and Recently the department issued warnings about the earns sufficient money to keep himself and his ingestion of some of the shellfish caught in the family. He has reached a stage in life where he is Brighton, Elwood, Sandringham and Hampton semi-retired and wants to continue to earn a living at areas. No-one knew whether the mussels at Black a slower pace. Rock were safe to eat. The department issued no advice to protect the small industry in that area. It The imposition of this surcharge on the renewal of was incompetent in not issuing proper advice when his master fisherman's licence will have a direct that problem arose two or three months ago. impact on his ability to fish at his desired pace. He told me that a Significant number of fishermen Although the department has provided guidelines around the bay regret the large impost. Although for on the harvesting of shellfish on the shores of Black many years they have been described as successful Rock and Sandringham, no adequate policing of the fishermen they are now in semi-retirement and want activities of the migrant communities has been to continue practising their profession at a less hectic evident. Members of migrant communities often pace. This large impost on the ordinary fisherman's collect shellfish illegally from the shores so that licence will be a Significant burden on them. today few shellfish remain. I suggest that issue could have been addressed in this Bill. I make those The Pompei brothers are second generation comments and direct the Minister's attention to fishermen and the family has a BD-year history of them. fishing in the bay. The brothers not only have definite views but also highly skilled knowledge of Finally, irrespective of the good work of the the variety and volume of fish in the bay. Their Victorian Fishing Industry Federation, as outlined conversations with me about abalone have been by my colleague from Gippsland, the Bill will give interesting for a layperson such as myself. They additional funding to that federation. maintain that abalone are cyclical in that over five to seven years their numbers become Significant and Will the Minister take note of the difficulty some of over the next one or two years their numbers are the semi-retired master fishermen will have with the reduced while the young abalone grow. They told introduction of the high penalties associated with me that although young departmental officers may this Bill? have degrees and doctorates and have been "educated", they take little notice of the practitioners Motion agreed to. in the field who have the knowledge but not the degrees or the flash boats. Read second time.

Despite having been successful fishermen in the bay Passed remaining stages. for more than two generations, the advice of the Pompei brothers is ignored. They maintain the LIBRARIES (AMENDMENT) BILL department is pushing them around and takes no notice of the correct and true principles associated Resubmission of questions with the industry; it simply wants to impose high levies on them. A surcharge of $500 on the renewal The ACfING PRESIDENT - Order! When the of an abalone licence is an extremely high impost for Libraries (Amendment) Bill was considered by the people who simply want to continue fishing the bay House earlier today, the second and third readings because they enjoy the profession they have of the Bill were passed by a majority of the members participated in over the past 40 years. then present. It has subsequently been realised that, because some of the provisions of the Bill alter or Another aspect of the fishing industry is the mussel vary the provisions of section B5 of the Constitution farming that occurs in my electorate. I believe Act 1975, absolute majorities should have been sensible, firm controls should be imposed on the obtained on that occasion. fishing and development of mussels. It is interesting to note that for many years the mussel farm off the In view of my ruling, I now propose to rectify the Black Rock cliffs has remained in what is regarded matter by resubmitting the questions for the second AGRICULTURAL AND VETERINARY CHEMICALS BILL

Tuesday, 28 April 1992 COUNCIL 595 and third readings. I shall ask the Clerk to ring the 1. Clause I, page 2,line I, after "health" insert "and bells. welfare". Hon. R. S. de FEGEL Y (Ballarat) - The coalition Hon. D. M. EV ANS (North Eastern) - On that does not agree with the amendment. The clause, point, Mr Acting President, is there not a procedure which protects the health of the general public and that requires certain information be given to the users of the products; is adequate. It is hard to honourable members prior to a variation of the define "welfare" as suggested in the amendment; it Constitution Act, and has that been done? broadens the meaning of clause l(i) to such a degree that the coalition will not accept the amendment. The ACI1NG PRESIDENT - Order! That information was given in the House. Hon. D. M. EV ANS (North Eastern) - I support the stand taken by Mr de Fegely. 'Welfare" can also Bells rung. refer to people who have psychological problems or a psycholOgical disagreement with the use of Members having assembled in Chamber: agricultural sprays or chemicals and can seek to use Second reading a widening series of so-called disadvantages to severely curtail good and proper agricultural production of good and proper, pure and safe The ACTING PRESIDENT - Order! I resubmit agricultural produce in the State. the question on the second reading: The question is: To widen the clause to include "welfare" - because That this Bill be again read a second time. of its broad definition - could be dangerous not only for Victorian but also for the whole of Required number of members having risen: Australian agricultural production. I concur with what Mr de Fegely has said. It is a dangerous Resubmitted motion agreed to by absolute widening of the Act. majority. Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation Read second time. and Environment) - I regret the opposition is Third reading adopting this attitude. The extension to the definition to include "welfare" makes the legislation more relevant to community health, and to The ACTING PRESIDENT - Order! The occupational health and safety issues. question is: We need not be fearful about the complexities. Most That this Bill be again read a second time. people are aware of the interactions between health and welfare; a change of this type will enhance the Required number of members having risen: operation of the legislation to bring it into line with other legisla tion. Resubmitted motion agreed to by absolute majority. Amendment negatived; clause agreed to; clauses 2 and 3 agreed to. Read third time. AGRICULTURAL AND VETERINARY Clause 4 CHEMICALS BILL Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation and Environment) - I move: Committed. 2. Clause 4, page 3, line 2, after "preparation" insert Committee "(whether in a solid or liquid form)". The amendment extends the definition of "aerial Clause 1 spraying" to include preparations in solid or liquid form. Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation ar.d Environment) - I move: Hon. R. S. de FEGELY (Ballarat) - This provision has been inserted after discussion AGRICULTURAL AND VETERINARY CHEMICALS BILL

596 COUNCIL Tuesday, 28 April 1992 particularly with the aerial agricultural sprayers. It was considered sensible to proceed with a They were concerned about the insufficient clarity of Victorian registration scheme because of the delays the definition. The opposition commends the that may occur at the Federal level. The amendment government for moving the amendment. allows for a phase-out when the national scheme is introduced. Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to; clause 5 agreed to. Hon. D. M. EV ANS (North Eastern) - Without disagreeing with any of the foregOing debate on this Clause 6 issue, the procedure introduced by the amendment is interesting; that is, Significant amendments or Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation changes under the Act may be made by an and Environment) - I move: announcement in the Government Gazette. It would mean, unless I am gravely mistaken, that in this 3. Clause 6, line 9, omit "that 12 months" and insert provision there would be none of the normal "than two years". scrutiny of the subordinate legislation subcommittee The amendment follows discussions with the of subordinate legislation. That has happened Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Association occasionally in other Acts of Parliament. (AVCA). It is a very rare procedure that Parliament should Amendment agreed to; amende4 clause agreed to; allow a power to be given outside the scrutiny of clause 7 agreed to. Parliament with no opportunity for such scrutiny to occur. Had it been, for example, not by proclamation Clause 8 in the Government Gazette but by regulation, a full scrutiny could have been carried forward. Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation and Environment) - I move: This is a matter of Significance and when a procedure of this nature is introduced in this 4. Clause 8, after line 7 insert - fashion, Parliament should be aware of this course of "(3) If national registration arrangements for action. preparations come into existence under the Commonwealth Act - Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to; clauses 9 to 13 agreed to. (a) the Minister may, by notice published in the Government Gazette, declare that those Clause 14 arrangements apply for the purposes of this Act; and Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation (b) while the registration of a preparation is in and Environment) - I move: force under those arrangements the 5. Clause 14, lines 28 and 29, omit paragraph (b) and preparation must be taken to be registered insert- under this Act.". "(b) on any prescribed ground.". The amendment results from discussions with A VCA because there was no provision for automatic This qualifies the powers for cancellation of registration under any national registration scheme. registration by stipulating that it must be on any It will allow for automatic registration in Victoria of prescribed ground; such grounds must be contained those preparations under the ambit of the national in the regulations. scheme. It will allow for a more speedy and rational approach to registration. Hon. R. S. de FEGEL Y (Ballarat) - This is a sensible amendment. In considering the original Bill Hon. R. S. de FEGEL Y (Ballarat) - The AVCA said it believed that the registration could be opposition agrees with this sensible amendment. cancelled on the recommendation of the board, and The proposal for national legislation was one reason the previous question as to whether the board also we were not prepared to proceed with the Bill registers agricultural chemicals is also relevant. during the last sessional period. Such Federal legislation would have made it unnecessary for AVCA said it could not accept the proposal as it Victoria to have its own scheme. was, namely, that the registrar could cancel registration for any other reason that the registrar AGRICULTURAL AND VETERINARY CHEMICALS BILL

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thought appropriate. Consequently, this amendment we agree with the Minister that the amendment will removes that provision from the clause and makes it simplify the system and put in place advisable more acceptable. safeguards.

Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to; Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to; clause 15 agreed to. clauses 28 to 31 agreed to.

Clause 16 Sitting suspended 6.31 p.m. until 8.3 p.m.

Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation Clause 32 and Environment) - I move: Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation 6. Clause 16, line 3, omit all words and expressions on and Environment) - I move: this line and insert -

That it be a suggestion to the Assembly that they make the following amendment in the Bill: (a) the names of all registered preparations; and 1. Clause 32, line 30, omit "8" and insert "9". (b) the names of the wholesale dealers in registered preparations." . Hon. R. S. de FEGEL Y (Ballarat) - The coalition will not support the suggested amendment, based The amendment defines the requirements of on what it believes are good grounds. The Animal registra tion. Preparations Board will comprise people with specific skills who will make recommendations to Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to; the Minister on various chemical products. The clause 17 agreed to. members of the board will also decide whether products should be allowed on the market. If Clause 18 members of the board are to make informed decisions, they will need considerable expertise. Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation and Environment) - I move: I under~tand the amendment was suggested by the 7. Clause 18, line 22, omit "12 months" and insert "2 Austrahan Workers Union. The coalition believes years". the union will be unable to propose someone who could be considered to be representative of This amendment is consequential to my amendment veterinary surgeons, pharmaceutical chemists and No. 3. the like in the same way as the people to be proposed by the Victorian Farmers Federation, the Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to; chemical manufacturers association and other clauses 19 to 26 agreed to. organisa tions. Clause 27 The coalition believes the expansion of the board to include a person simply on the basis of his or her Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation being an employee is inappropriate. Therefore the and Environment) - I move: coalition will vote against the suggested amendment. 8. Clause 27, line 24, omit ", and time at which,". Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation The amendment ensures that advice notes are and Environment) - The reaction from the supplied to purchasers at the time of delivery of opposition is disappointing. As it stands the Animal preparations supplied in bulk so the correct advice is Preparations Board will have eight members who available on the way such preparations should be will be selected for their expertise by bodies that the handled. This appears to present cl helpful check to Minister considers to be representative of veterinary ensure people using chemicals are fully aware of the surgeons, pharmaceutical chemists, and the information associated with their use. manufacturers and users of veterinary chemical preparations and stock foods. All the amendment Hon. R. S. de FEGEL Y (Ballarat) - The coalition seeks to do is to add an additional member, an does not object to the amendment. Although at first employee who would bring to the board his or her ~e were somewhat puzzled by it, after having been knowledge gained as a result of working in the area. gIVen an explanation by officers of the department AGRICULTURAL AND VETERINARY CHEMICALS BILL

598 COUNCIL Tuesday, 28 April 1992

The functions of the board are to make Hon. R. S. de FEGEL Y (Ballarat) - I take the recommendations to the registrar regarding the Minister's point of view. Perhaps in different registration, composition, labelling, sale or use of circumstances we would have been prepared to go any veterinary chemical preparation or stock food, along with the addition of an employee on the board or the standard for any veterinary chemical because such members often enhance the ability of preparation or stock food, and to investigate and boards and bodies to ensure the best possible results make recommendations to the Minister or the occur. This is a specialised board which makes registrar, as the case requires, regarding any matter considered judgments about the use of chemicals, referred to the board by the Minister or the registrar. and obviously the members need to make clear The inclusion of a person with a working decisions as a result of expert knowledge. background in the industry would enhance the board. The Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Association of Australia Ltd has had some input into Given the way in which other members of the board the legislation and as a result of the discussions held are to be selected, due regard would be given to the between it and the Minister we came up with a Bill person's capacity to make a contribution to the that will be acceptable to all when the amendments board's functions. I remind the Committee that the are made. It said there does not appear to be a persons appointed to the board will be chosen from justification for such an increase in the membership a panel of three nominated by the organisations of the board, and in view of the pressures for referred to. The same formula would be applied in reduced regulation it would seem consistent with the appointment of an employee :..- in other words, the consolidation principle being adopted in the Bill he or she would be chosen from a panel of not less to reduce rather than increase its size. than three names. The inclusion of an employee - who would be only one of nine members of the We have given the amendment due consideration. In board - does not seem too threatening. fact we agonised over it to some degree but came down on the side of the view that we should not A previous amendment accepted by the Committee increase the size of the board because it needs will ensure that people who use chemicals in bulk people such as those I have mentioned earlier with form are given adequate information about their use. an expert and qualified background, and for that Given that part of the board's functions is to make reason the opposition will oppose the amendment. recommendations to the Minister on the labelling and use of veterinary chemical preparations or stock The ACTING CHAIRMAN food, I find it difficult to understand why the (Hon. D. M. Evans) - Order! I understand coalition is opposing the inclusion of someone who suggested amendment No. 1 moved by the Minister would represent people who work with such also tests suggested amendments Nos 2, 3 and 4. preparations and foods. It is not as if the board would be swamped by members of a union in such a Committee divided on suggested amendment: way as to change its representative functions. It would be a minority point of view - one-ninth of Ayes, 15 the committee. It is unfortunate that the opposition Coxse

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Pairs council spraying on properties and found links Ms Kokocinski MrCox between individual pesticides and residents who Mr Landeryou MrsTehan had died. She would like the book to be evaluated MrsMcLean MrLawson by department officials and a response made. MrSgro MrGuest There is nothing in this very important Bill which Suggested amendment negatived. protects the health of human beings and evaluates poisons. In recent times a community in Yarram Clause agreed to; clauses 33 to 41 agreed to. evaluated the important issues of poisons and human beings. Numerous organisations are doing Clause 42 evaluation work on this but it is not being drawn together and addressed by legislation in this Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation Parliament. I am pleading for the Minister to take and Environment) - I move: these views to his colleague the Minister for Food and Agriculture to ensure that the research that is 9. Clause 42, lines 31 and 32, omit "over land that is not being done on the effects of chemicals on people and owned or occupied by the person". the evaluations that are made are translated into This works in conjunction with clause 43. The effect legislation. of adding this is to handle the situation where the Bill in its original form would have allowed I ask the Minister to draw to the attention of his someone to hold his own land without an insurance colleague the book by Mrs Dolman. It is an policy. This would have placed the neighbours at a important book. This lady spent 10 years bringing disadvantage and this clause rectifies that situation. these matters to the community and her work must be responded to. Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to. Clause agreed to; clauses 51 to 54 agreed to. Clause 43 Clause 55 Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation and Environment) - I move: Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation and Environment) - I move: 10. Clause 43, lines 20 and 21, omit "on land not owned or occupied by the pilot". 11. Clause 55, line 26, after "dealer" insert- This is consequential. "if- (i) it is being carried out for a prescribed reason; or Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to; clauses 44 to 49 agreed to. (ii) the result of the testing shows that the preparation does not comply with standards Clause 50 set under this Act; or

(ill) the result of the testing shows that the Hon. G. P. CONNARD (Higinbotham) - I wish preparation has been changed in a way that is to make a few brief remarks on this clause. In a sense required under this Act to be approved and the clause refers to land use restrictions and the approval has not been obtained". registration surrounding them. In his contribution to the second-reading debate Mr Mackenzie referred to This amendment is directed towards reducing the a case concerning one of my own constituents. chance that wholesale dealers may have to pay for Mr Mackenzie outlined the circumstances of unnecessary testing by associating that with a Mrs Yvonne Dolman whose daughter died of cancer prescribed reason established by regulation or if the in 1976. Mrs Dolman wrote a book called Children, preparation is found to be defective as a result of Fools and Pesticides. It is a worthy book and I endorse testing. It sets some limits on requests for testing by it. It should be widely read not only by members of requiring it to be specifically related to a cause or this House but also by officials of the department. reason.

What occurred is an example of what can happen. Hon. R. S. de FEGELY (Ballarat) - The coalition Mrs Dolman found that 30 people living in her street agrees with the amendment, which is necessary and had died of cancer. She tracked the cause to previous sensible and has come about due to the discussions HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

600 COUNCIL Tuesday, 28 April 1992 between the Australian Veterinary Chemicals Amendments agreed to; amended clause agreed to; Association, other interested groups and the clauses 60 to 65 agreed to. department, and we fully support the amendment. Clause 66 Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to. Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation Clause 56 and Environment) - I move:

Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation That it be a suggestion to the Assembly that they make and Environment) - I move: the following amendment in the Bill: 12. Clause 56, page 43, line 23, after "owner" insert­ 5. Clause 66, line 22, after "office" insert - "if- ; and (i) it is being carried out for a prescribed reason; or (c) unless he or she holds a full-time government office (within the meaning of the (ii) the result of the testing shows that the stock or Public Service Act 1974) or a full-time office agricultural produce (as the case requires) is in the public service or with a statutory contaminated or that, in the case of land, the authority, is entitled to be paid allowances for growing of plants or the grazing of stock on it travelling and personal expenses at the rates would be likely to result .in the production of and on the conditions applicable to officers of contaminated agricultural produce or the the public service.". contamination of the stock". This suggestion basically comes from the Victorian The reasoning for this is similar to that for the Farmers Federation and it provides that non-public previous clause except that in this case it is directed servant members who are part of the Victorian at the owner of stock, land or agricultural produce Agricultural Chemicals Advisory Committee would rather than the wholesale dealer. receive some allowance for expenses for attending the necessary meetings. Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to; clauses 57 and 58 agreed to. Suggested amendment agreed to; clause postponed. Clause 59 Clauses 67 to 91 agreed to; schedule agreed to. Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation Progress reported. and Environment) - I move: 13. Clause 59, line 5, before "A" insert "(1)". Suggested amendment and amendments reported to House. 14. Clause 59, after line 11 insert- "(2) A person must not make any statement about a Report adopted. preparation or its use that is false or misleading and likely to cause a person who Ordered to be returned to Assembly with message relies on the statement to commit an offence intimating decision of House. under this Act. HERITAGE RIVERS BILL Penalty: In the case of a corporation, 100 penalty units. Second reading In any other case, 50 penalty units.". Debate resumed from 8 April; motion of Hon. B. T. Hon. R. S. de FEGEL Y (Ballarat) - The PULLEN (Minister for Conservation and Australian Veterinary Chemicals Association was Environment). concerned about the clause as it is in the Bill because it includes the impOSition of a penalty on any person Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - Five years making false or misleading statements about a ago the Land Conservation Council was given the preparation and its use if that statement is likely to task of making recommendations on rivers and cause an offence under the Act. This amendment streams in Victoria taking into account their scenic, accords with that. recreational, cultural and ecological values. In the HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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period since June 1987 the Land Conservation management of that land than with the zoning of it. Council has been reviewing that issue and The Bill is principally about one issue: the consulting widely with interested individuals, management of the rivers that have been chosen. groups, government departments and other bodies. The consequence of that review was the report More than anything else it could be said that the Bill entitled "Rivers and streams. Final is educational in that it does not seek to prescribe recommendations" which was made available to the new, strict and specific uses for the rivers that have public in June 1991. been called heritage rivers. Instead it sets in place a process for the creation of new management plans Today we debate the Bill which is largely based on for those heritage rivers. The coalition takes it in the those recommendations. From the outset we make it spirit that this is an educational process of dealing clear that the Bill will pass Parliament. The concept with what have been cited as the most important of properly managing and responsibly protecting rivers in Victoria because of natural features and so significant rivers in Victoria is shared by all political on and we hope that it leads to a broadening debate parties. The coalition places on the record the view about the need for improved catchment that the rivers that are denoted in the Bill warrant management within Victoria, catchment special treatment and special recognition, and we management being a concept that we have long have no disagreement with the general thrust of the supported as a style of dealing with improved idea that has been put forward in debate. Crown land management.

We will be moving amendments to the Bill which The recommendations put forward by the Land we believe will, firstly, make it accord more Conservation Council (LCC) have largely been accurately with the Land Conservation Council reflected in this legislation, although, to be perfectly recommendations and, secondly, accord more frank, the most important way of reflecting the LCC practicably with public opinions and expectations. conclusions is twofold: firstly, to adopt the rivers it However, the overall thrust of the Bill will become has chosen; and, secondly, to adopt the idea of reality, will become legislation and inevitably will having specific management plans for those rivers. become some form of benchmark. That has been done in the legislation and we will not interrupt the process. It is not our intention to The LCC report recommended that 17 rivers be remove any single river; and it is not our intention to entitled heritage rivers: Mitta Mitta, Ovens, disagree with the idea of having management plans Howqua, Big, Goulburn, Wimmera, Genoa, Bemm, for each of those rivers. Goolengook, Arte, Errinundra, Snowy, Suggan Buggan, Berrima, Upper Buchan, Mitchell, Indeed, it is our intention to add one extra river, the Wonnangatta, Thomson, Yarra, Lerderderg, Aire Aberfeldy River, to the list of heritage rivers. It is and Glenelg, and that these rivers require full or part also our intention to strengthen the management protection. Because of their natural condition they plan process to ensure that it is highly credible and were regarded as the rivers to be recognised as highly productive. Significant and given unique treatment. The Heritage Rivers Bill will therefore proceed These rivers were chosen after an exhaustive survey through Parliament with our support, following by the LCe. It must be said at the beginning that this some amendments, and as a result for the first time was a unique task for the council because it was a there will be statutory recognition granted to departure from the references normally given to it. Victoria's most Significant river systems. In the past the references given to the LCC have been to study the values associated with separate We can therefore generally give our assent to the Bill parcels of land and then to recommend different because, like most Victorians, we want to see the land uses. It may well be that the council best possible management of our river environs with recommended, for example, that part of the land in government agencies and adjoining private question be allocated for a national park, part for a landowners working to ensure the highest possible State park, part for forest purposes or part for some standards for those areas. other purpose applicable to Crown land. We live in the real world and recognise that passing This reference was different in that although it this Bill will, of itself, actually achieve nothing. After applied only to Crown land or what could be called we establish a new national park, the real question Crown property, it really had to do more with the will be: how will the area be managed? Will funds HERITAGE RIVERS BaL

602 COUNCIL Tuesday, 28 April 1992 be allocated to implement the ideas that are implicit I was pleased to be advised earlier today by the in declaring an area a heritage river or declaring an Minister that he will be moving an amendment to area a national park? the Bill relating to the grazing of cattle on streamside and riverside reserves. The Land Conservation It is a tragedy that over the past 10 years there has Council final recommendations were explicit in been a progressive reduction in the allocation of saying that the recommendations should not public funds to vital areas of Crown land, regardless interfere with existing grazing rights, but the Bill of whether it is Crown land in national parks, State was silent on the matter and could therefore have parks or other historic areas. There has been a cut in been read by some as meaning that grazing rights the allocation of funds for fire protection on Crown were being removed. land, as outlined in the recent Auditor-General's report. There has been a reduction in the support As unlikely as that was, it would be improper for us given to our national parks in terms of rangers being to pass a Bill that was silent on a matter when allocated to manage those parks. There has been a legitimate objections have been raised by reasonable recent attack on the National Parks Service by the people about it. We are pleased that the Minister is government, which was fortuitously overturned moving an amendment and, although we have to recently, but it was seen that there was no clear look at the final wording, it will certainly enjoy our policy message on improving public land support. management. The LCC report on grazing was clear cut. It was As we live in the real world, we believe the Bill has discussed at page 9 under the heading ''Rivers and to be couched in the context that it will mean their frontages": something only if it leads to better management and an improvement in the attitude of the Department of Adjoining landowners have had problems with litter, Conservation and Environment because, as I have damage to stock and property, and fire arising from said time and again in debates about national parks, careless use of frontages by some members of the as I supported the creation of new national parks, it public. Further, the government, if it were to assume means nothing if we do not properly resource them sole responsibility for vermin and weed control, and manage them in the long-term interests of the fencing, and other management activities, would incur State. significant additional costs. These recommendations emphasise that degraded frontages should be restored I get no warm inner glow out of passing legislation; I cooperatively, and that access for appropriate forms of only get a sense of satisfaction out of visiting Crown recreation be provided. land that is well managed and therefore managed up to the standards that generations of Victorians At page 32 of the report the LCC went on to say, would expect. I am not confident that under this specifically on grazing: government the Bill will mean anything other than a short headline for it, but I certainly dedicate the ... where currently permitted, and at the discretion of future government to the proper management of corridor managers, public land within the Victorian heritage rivers and the improved management of heritage rivers corridors continue to be available for national and State parks throughout the State. grazing ...

As I said earlier, there is a need for some It is clear from the report that the LCC had reached amendments to the Bill which will be moved in the what we regard as an utterly practical and Committee stage. I shall briefly outline some of the reasonable conclusion. It is ludicrous to suggest that amendments, which accord with public government departments would ever be able to representations made to us by a variety of land provide hands-on practical management of every users, municipalities and individuals. streamside reserve along heritage rivers. In the end, the only body we can actually rely on to do so is the We have consulted widely on the Bill, including long adjoining private landowner; we have to work with discussions with bodies as diverse as the Victorian adjoining private landowners to ensure the job is National Parks Association and the Public Lands well done. Council. On balance we believe we have arrived at the correct conclusion in passing the Bill, supporting All of us would be able to find examples of rivers key concepts, but also putting forward some being degraded because of improper management Significant amendments. by private landowners. I can find just as many HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

Tuesday, 28 April 1992 COUNCIL 603 examples of rivers being degraded because of a lack government plans exist for any dam or diversion to of management by the public landowner. There is no be built on any of the heritage rivers listed in the Bill. use pointing the bone at those individuals; it is far better to say, as the LCC report does, that in future On behalf of the coalition, I make it clear that we we should work cooperatively with all landowners have no policy commitments to build any dams or to get something done. diversions on any of the heritage rivers and we have no intention of announcing any policy commitments Part and parcel of the recommendation was the to build any dams or diversions on any of the acceptance that grazing could continue but, of heritage rivers. course, it is to be subject to management plans. We do not reject that concept and private landowners do In the end, any decision on future dam provision not reject it. Indeed, people involved in such projects will have to follow public debate and be subject to as LandCare say that to plan in advance and to use strict legislative tests. The coalition accepts that, as the land wisely is a sensible approach. would most people. It is inevitable that such dam construction will not go ahead purely on financial We believe the subject of the amendment the grounds, if not on environmental grounds. Cabinet Minister is suggesting is important, and we support is the body that will make the decision and the it. We will also move to ensure that the management coalition will amend the Bill to give Cabinet that plans suggested in the Bill are subject to the normal power. public consultative processes. The other amendment that will be moved will add An interesting aspect is that when the Bill was another river, that is, the Aberfeldy River, to the list considered by the coalition it realised it was silent on of heritage rivers. The Aberfeldy River was how the management plans for each heritage river considered by the Land Conservation Council (LCC) will actually be drawn up. We sought to find for inclusion in the list of heritage rivers, and it met precedents in other Acts, only to be surprised by the many of its stringent tests. Although I have tried not conclusion that there is no codified precedent in to be critical of the tests employed by the LCC, I current legislation for the construction, publication point out that at best one could say that some of the and finalisation of management plans relating to tests are purely value judgments - it is difficult to Crown land. Therefore, we have structured a modest build a scientific or computer model around but important series of safeguards to ensure that aesthetics or scenic value. management plans are made available for public consultation, that public views have to be heard, and The Aberfeldy River failed to meet the conditions set that there is a period during which draft for acceptance as a heritage river. However, the management plans must be publicly displayed. coalition maintains that it should be added to the list and it will move to that effect. In fact, the river is in The amendments will be moved because the significant territory. For much of its length it runs coalition considers them to be necessary because of through the existing Baw Baw National Park. an oversight in the preparation of the Heritage Because that important area is protected we Rivers Bill. Individuals and groups must be able to maintain that the Aberfeldy River should be comment on draft management plans and they must accorded the status of a heritage river. We will have a right to scrutinise totally any present certain other argument on that, should it be recommendation made. Such a guarantee is not necessary, during the Committee stage of the Bill. contained in the Bill. The coalition looks forward to good and proper The coalition has stated also that it will propose that management plans being prepared in the future for controls be put on the construction of dams and all the heritage rivers and other areas that have been diversions. Currently controls are in force in respect denoted in the Bill as important. We have of any major dam construction; they are contained in reservations at any time about adding to the the Planning and Environment Act, the expenses of the State through the provisions of any Environment Effects Act and the recently debated legislation but in this case we maintain that the Bill Water Act. All of those pieces of legislation lay should be amended because it will enhance the down strict guidelines should a plan ever be opportunity for COIlUllunity debate and public presented for building a dam on any of the heritage education about the importance of properly rivers. So far as the coalition can discover, no managing and caring for Significant rivers and streams throughout Victoria. HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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Hon. D. M. EV ANS (North Eastern) - The Goulburn River to its confluence with the River Heritage Rivers Bill is proposed legislation that the Murray, are important. The Goulburn River is a National Party, as part of the coalition, is happy to major channel for irrigation water from the Eildon support provided that the amendments dam to Shepparton and beyond. foreshadowed by my colleague Mr Birrell are agreed to. They will round out the legislation. It is of interest to note that the Salinity Advisory Committee is concerned that the banks of the Honourable members must understand that we Goulburn River be managed so that it continues to have some extremely beautiful rivers in Victoria, be kept in the way that the community requires it to that the river system in the State forms an important be kept. part of the rural economy and its productive capacity, and that it is vitally important for all urban Mr Birrell commented on the coalition's agreement development as a source of water supply. Therefore with the Bill and referred to the proposal to promote it is logical and sensible that we manage our river the idea of catchment-based management. I strongly resources as well as we pOSSibly can and that we support that approach. Indeed, since 1982, well take good care of them. It is almost axiomatic that if before the coalition was happily formed by the we look after the conservation and environmental Liberal and National parties, it had been part of values of our rivers to the best of our ability the National Party policy to have a catchment-based other objectives I have enumerated will also be well approach to river management. looked after. In drawing up that policy members of the National It is for this reason, if for no other, that it is Party saw it as involving not just the catchments of important to understand that our rivers need the rivers themselves; they recognised that things Significant attention. It is also true that as long as 40 that happened away from rivers could also affect or more years ago river improvement trusts were what happened in rivers; in other words, works such established in Victoria. As long ago as 1949 river as those carried out by LandCare groups and farm improvement trusts were set up in north-eastern tree planting groups also had Significant effects. Victoria because some far-Sighted landowners and other citizens in the community recognised that We also recognised that many landowners with action needed to be undertaken to protect river highly productive land could at times be at risk banks and other parts of rivers. when a rampaging river with high flows flooded and so on. We recognised that it may be difficult to With the benefit of hindsight, it is certainly possible stop all activities that may add to the danger that to conclude that some of the work done by the river would occur in those extreme conditions. There will improvement trusts would not stand up to modern be times, for example, when additional damage from tests and requirements. The work tended to involve fast-flOwing rivers will occur because there is less maintenance of the existing river banks and grass as a result of grazing. protection of private property in particular from river erosion and the effects of floods. Some of the Some of our most fertile soil for grazing and methods used, such as pulling snags out of the river intensive horticulture is on river banks, with from time to time and straightening river bends, significant investment having been made by private proved to be quite disastrous for good river individuals. Private investment in productive management. Some important lessons were learned capacity and the protection of the river and river many years ago. environs are at times in conflict. It is important that we attack the problem sensitively and sensibly, not Regardless of whether a river is declared a heritage just by imposing a blanket prohibition but by river under the Heritage Rivers Bill, it is important gaining an understanding of the best way to reduce that all the rivers are well looked after. Parliament the risks. At times it may be necessary to ensure that will recognise that some rivers have a higher degree the risk is removed altogether over a period. On of speciality than others. The Land Conservation some occasions the rights of private individuals will Council (LeC), after a five-year inquiry, has be involved in that process. suggested that some 17 rivers, either in whole or in part, be included in the group of heritage rivers. It must be recognised that rivers are dynamic. Over thousands of years rivers have wandered across the In my province some rivers that I know well, riverine plain and have changed course regardless of including the Ovens River below Peechelba and the whether man has been there. If one examines the HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

Tuesday. 28 April 1992 COUNCIL 605 creation of billabongs in certain areas on the river Council recognises that the successful restoration and plains one can see the course that the rivers took maintenance of frontages, beds and banks depends on hundreds or thousands of years ago. The river plains the interest and support of adjacent landowners which themselves have been built up by siltation and the will only be gained by a collaborative approach to the movement of soil from the high country to flatter identification and resolution of problems. areas. There is a desire among landowners in Victoria to Hon. B. W. Mier - That is the result of your collaborate in and assist with river management. A cutting down the trees. process of education, assistance and cooperation needs to be carried forward and, where they are able Hon. D. M. EV ANS - Go back to sleep! to do so, more landowners will then jOin in the slow process of providing proper protection while also The river plains have been built up by the meeting their own needs for the proper use of their movement of soil over thousands of years and that land and farms. process will continue. As I said, in the early days of river improvement and management, works were Honourable members will be aware that people who performed to protect private property and to stop have river frontages adjacent to their properties can rivers doing what they wanted to do, which was to either lease the area or fence it off. If they fence it off shift all over the river plains. We must understand, they must provide public access through unlocked therefore, that we are dealing with a very dynamic swing gates or stiles across fences that cut across the situation. river plains. A higher level of responsibility is exercised, if not legally required, by landowners I praise the development and understanding of river than by members of the public who sometimes make management that has taken place in Victoria in the use of river frontages. That can cause friction past 40 years. People like Mr Ian Drummond of between landowners and visitors such as fishermen, Drummond and Associates have an extensive picnickers, campers, duck shooters, and people knowledge of river management and of how to moving through the area to enjoy the scenery, watch obtain the best results from it. I happen to know the birds or even take their girlfriends for walks Mr Drummond and know of his work in along the river frontage. River frontages can be used north-eastem Victoria and Gippsland. Many other in many ways and the public has the right of access engineers and experienced people who have been to them. There is a need to educate the public to associated with Mr Drummond have been able to understand that a great deal of responsibility falls on draw on his knowledge. them when they use those areas.

People like Mr Harold Craig from the Shire of It also needs to be understood that if a landowner Tallangatta, who was also significantly involved in were forced to fence the stream banks it is not river management in a different area, and always perfectly clear exactly where the boundary is Mr Hubert Miller from the Association of Victorian between public and private land. In some cases the River Management Authorities have built up a landowner owns the land right to the water's edge wealth of practical knowledge and experience on and in other places there is a movement of the how to best manage our rivers for the benefit of the boundary by apprOximately 20 metres, or one chain whole community and in the best tradition of in the old measurements, according to the natural conserving rivers. movements of the stream bed. In other instances the boundary of the stream has been determined by a The catchment-based approach would appear to be survey and is recorded in the original title of land, a very sensible way of dealing with rivers. The regardless of where the stream flows. In a case Ovens River Management Board, which I where the landowner owns the land right to the understand was a pioneer in the catchment stream bank, movements of the stream can take the approach to river improvement trust work, has stream into the private property. In fact, I have shown just how well the process can be carried examples of all three of those situations on my forward with a reasonable amount of government farming property, so I am aware of the problem. assistance. It also adds weight to the comments made at page 118 of the Land Conservation Council If there were a requirfment to fence such an area it report that: would be an enormously expensive exercise to determine the boundaries and then to fence them. Further, streams can rise with great rapidity and HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

606 COUNCIL Tuesday, 28 April 1992 flow with great force, sometimes at 20 or land to lease areas of river banks, those landowners 30 kilometres an hour. Fences do not last long in will suffer significant detriment and a degree of those circumstances and they are expensive to uncertainty. maintain and replace. There is also the requirement for the landowner to have access to the water for The opposition recognises that certain areas will stock and domestic purposes. That is another need to be set aside by fencing or other means so important factor that must be taken into account. that access by livestock is denied. Mr Birrell pointed out that weeds and vermin on river banks are a Mr Birrell referred to the fact that in light of all of problem. I refer not just to St John's Wort and those factors additional protection methods will be Patterson's Curse, Noogoora and Bathurst burrs and required in some areas, particularly in relation to other weeds, but particularly to blackberries that heritage rivers. It is clear that in some cases livestock abound in the higher reaches of the river systems. and people who have public or private access to a Given the right conditions they spread quickly and river bank can cause damage that is not acceptable they are expensive to eradicate. They not only hide to the community or the responsible landowner. and blot out most other vegetation to the eventual That does not mean the whole river bank should be detriment of the river bank itself, but also restrict the protected by fencing, but from time to time certain general public's enjoyment of the area. It is sections of the river bank need to be protected and extremely difficult to gain access to river banks revegetation programs should be put in place using covered with blackberries. not just the indigenous plants and trees, but occasionally introduced species such as the willow There is good reason for the collaboration of the tree, which is the cause of some controversy. landowner and the authorities to be enshrined in the legislation, which is an LCC recommendation to That exercise is best carried out through cooperation which I have referred and which I have quoted from between the river management authority, the page 118 of the report. It is vitally important that this Department of Conservation and Environment, or requirement be recognised because there is a real whatever government department is involved, and concern that the declaration of a particular area of a the adjoining landowner. river or a whole river as a heritage river could in itself be regarded as the application of pressure to As a member of the coalition I support the proposed restrict the right of access and take away the rights legislation. I recognise the need to protect all rivers of landowners. and streams in Victoria, but I acknowledge that some rivers and streams have a special place in the The Land Conservation Council's recommendations environment, as indicated in the Land Conservation make it abundantly clear that reasonable Council's report. opportunity will be provided for cooperative action by landowners and the management authority to do Not all streams are unmodified. For example, the the necessary work. Many people in Gippsland are Goulbum River below the Goulbum Weir has been concerned that some water storages may be placed significantly modified as a result of the construction on the heritage list of natural catchments. That issue of irrigation systems, the Eildon Weir and the also concerns people in other parts of the State. Goulbum Weir. The river's flow regime and the way it distributes water for irrigation purposes during The Upper Ovens River and the Buckland River in maximum river flows have been Significantly my electorate are not currently on the heritage rivers altered, yet the Land Conservation Council (LeC) list. They may be added to the list in due course. has recognised that river as a heritage river. The Those two rivers supply water for intense Ovens River below Peechelba and to the west of horticultural production to various towns, including Wangaratta is not dissimilar because it has also been Myrtleford, and are a source of water supply for the significantly modified. The same applies to the residents of Bright, which is a major tourist Buffalo and King river systems. attraction, as well as landowners along their path. A developing requirement will exist for additional It is important to recognise that owners of land water storages to meet the expanding needs of those adjoining the river systems are facing the same towns. problems that I have spelt out. Indeed, unless the Land Conservation Council's recommendations are In due course pressure may be exerted for those fully accepted and the proposed legislation rivers to be declared heritage rivers without the recognises the continuing right of owners of adjacent amendment that would allow water storages to be HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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constructed after proper consideration by Cabinet heritage. Educating the public, including and other authorities, which was referred to by landowners, leaseholders and even the public Mr Birrell. A direct conflict may occur between the servants who have to prepare management plans tourism industry and proponents of the and maintain these rivers will tax the minds of those development of intensive horticulture. The who are charged with the preparation of the river amendment is therefore eminently suitable because management plans. That is a big responsibility, it will not allow the construction of water storages which should involve public consultation including on rivers without the proper processes being landholders and leaseholders and other interested followed. parties to ensure that all points of view, particularly the views of conservationists and environmentalists, There are good historical reasons why my colleagues are respected. in the National Party and I, as part of the coalition, support the Bill. Our enthusiasm is not new found; it All people should participate to ensure that, in the has its origins in party policy and is a logical and end, the river management plans will be satisfactory sensible development. and will ensure adequate protection for our rivers and catchment areas. Now is the time to act; time Provided that the necessary amendments are put in can run out and if we let these things go it will be place, the National Party will support the Bill. In too late. The Bill is timely, necessary and should be doing so it hopes it will add to the pressure exerted above party political considerations and point by the community for cooperation and education in scoring; it is too important for that. Matters of an attempt to give greater attention to our important environmental value should rise completely above river systems. political considerations. They should be embraced by Parliament as a whole and by the community as a Hon. B. A. E. SKEGGS (Templestowe) - The whole, and that means ensuring that responsibility Heritage Rivers Bill concerns modem management comes back to the people who use our rivers and approaches to rivers and catchments, which is water catchments just as it comes back to those who consistent with the modem land management policy use our land in national and State parks. supported by the opposition. The opposition's amendments will ensure that those river Equal values should apply to our heritage rivers and management concepts are improved. our catchment areas. Public authorities will now be charged with the responsibility of ensuring that The Land Conservation Council is to be grazing rights, while permitted in certain areas congratulated for its intensive study over a five-year along the heritage rivers, will not flout management period and its subsequent report and . principals. I am quite sure that those who draw up recommendations. It has singled out 17 of the great the river management plans will have that aim very rivers of the State for heritage river classification. much in mind, in the same way as they will have in mind the matter of timber harvesting, which will not The opposition has foreshadowed its intention to be permitted in certain heritage river areas. propose the addition of the Aberfeldy River to the Although there are certain areas where this will list of 17 rivers recommended for such classification. continue, other heritage rivers will be excluded. In Victoria's rivers are part of our natural heritage and addition, water diversions must not be constructed should be greatly valued by every Victorian and along certain heritage rivers. Those are the sorts of Australian. safeguards and guarantees that the people of Victoria want to ensure that our beautiful rivers are The potential for our beautiful rivers to increase protected and guaranteed by the Bill. tourism in this State is enormous. Of course, the rivers are also used for practical purposes by people We also want to ensure that every step is taken to on the land and for recreational purposes by many maintain free-flOWing rivers for the proper Victorians. Those who come to the State could not movement of fish and water fauna along the help but admire these wonderful rivers, particularly waterways and streams. We must ensure that all of the 17 classified in the Bill. I hope the Aberfeldy the values one comes to expect in a river classified as River will be added to the Bill to become the 18th being of heritage Significance are protected so they heritage river. will not be in any wax endangered or degraded by the actions of either this or future generations. Many of the great paintings of this State depict our beautiful rivers, and we should be proud of our river HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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The Bill has to set in place those principles. We have 1987, the Land Conservation Act 1970 and the Water to ensure that more than just lip-service is paid to Act 1989. the Bill and that there will be genuine implementation of conservation principles. I will be It gives me great pleasure to support the Bill watching closely, as I am sure most honourable although it seems that the legislation, which is members will, to see the enactment of the principles actually the first of its kind in Australia and which set out in the objectives of the Bill, and to see that the opposition, to its credit, is supporting, should protection for our heritage rivers is not only command some press attention. Yet looking up into enshrined in the Bill but is ensured by the directions the Press Gallery I see that not a single member of given to the public servants and those on the boards the media is present. of management charged with the responsibilities entrusted to them in the Bill. The objects of the Bill These types of debates should be reported because will demand adequate funding. Without it very little they show that some important legislation is passed will happen, and I commend not only to this in Parliament with the support of both sides of the government but to any future government the need House; and a Bill such as this will have a Significant to ensure that adequate finance flows for the bearing not only on the Victorians of today but also implementation of this legislation. on those of the future.

We have to improve the public's knowledge and I commend the government for introdUCing this Bill understanding of and respect for our great 17 or 18 and the legislation it has introduced since it has been heritage rivers. They should be used in a most in government. It has received a lot of flak over responsible manner, in the same way as the public recent months, some of which is its own fault and uses our national and State parks. Regardless of some of which is not. Some of it is deserved and whether the rivers are used for sailing, fishing, some of it is not. One must commend it for pressing tourism or grazing, people should be responsible in on with a range of legislative changes that have their use of rivers in the same way as they are with improved the environment of Victoria. our State parks. I cannot commend the government without I note with interest that clause 20 corrects an commending the opposition because it has the unintended effect of an amendment under the Water numbers and the ability to frustrate and stop any (Consequential Amendments) Act 1989, altering the proposed legislation that is presented. Although I definition of "public land" under the Land have been angry about some of the amendments the Conservation Act 1970 so that it does not apply to opposition has forced on some measures, to its land used or reserved for sewerage purposes other credit, in most cases the changes have been only than Melbourne Water land. Although it is an minor and the principles of the legislation that the imp~rtant clause, it must be applied with great care government has been trying to enshrine have by those drafting the plans. They should not forget survived. the problems that can be caused to the great streams by seepage, sewage and effluent. What I have seen in Parliament since 1979 reflects the general attitude of the community. There is no I embrace the Bill with enthusiasm, as do all doubt that the honourable members who sat in this members of this place. Heritage rivers are indeed a House when I came here in 1979 - particularly rich heritage. The 17 and I hope 18 great rivers to be those on the government side at that time - were a classified as heritage rivers of this State are precious lot more hard nosed than the gentlemen sitting on to all Victorians and, I hope, to all Australians. I trust the opposition benches now. They would never have they will be treated in the future with the respect, allowed legislation such as this Bill to get off the dignity and affection owed to that rich heritage our ground. In saying that I pay a tribute to the wonderful rivers have given this State. Ministers of the day; I am sure that if Mr Vasey Houghton and Mr Bill Borthwick had had their way Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE (Geelong) - I support in Cabinet many reforms would have been started the Bill, which provides for the protection of before the Labor government came to office. particular parts of rivers and river catchment areas that have Significant nature conservation, recreation, Hon. R. I. Knowles - They were! scenic or cultural heritage attributes and which amends the Conservation, Forests and Lands Act Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE -Some were, but very few. What I have seen in the 13 years I have been in HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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this Parliament indicates that not only has the More than 30 per cent of the State's natural wetlands general public been more aware and understanding have been lost, with much larger percentages of of the environment, but, thankfully, members of particular wetland types destroyed. in certain regions. Parliament have also become more understanding. 'This Bill reflects that fact. In Victoria, few catchments and their aquatic ecosystems survive in an essentially undisturbed and Victoria is very fortunate that it has a Land natural state. Those surviving occur mainly in the Conservation Council and I pay tribute to it - it is mountainous, forested. areas of Victoria's far the envy of other States. It has provided Parliament north-eastem and far south-eastem catchments. with recommendations over many years. I acknowledge that it was set up by the previous Native fish species have been severely affected. by government. human activities. Two species are now considered. extinct within this State. Of the remaining 44 species, 31 Previous speakers have spoken of the history of the are endangered, vulnerable, restricted in distribution or this Bill and pointed out minor alterations that need of uncertain status. to be made. I congratulate the opposition for foreshadowing its proposed amendment to include Throughout the State, drinking water quality generally the Aberfeldy River in the list of heritage rivers. fails to meet World Health Organisation (WHO) bacteriological guidelines. In 1984 an interdepartmental committee was set up which included representatives from the then The last point it makes is: Department of Conservation, Forests and Lands and the then Ministry of Water Resources and Supply; it Insufficient monitoring occurs to determine current may have included representatives from the then conditions and longer term trends for most aspects of Department of Agriculture as well. the State's inland aquatic environment.

The committee carried out a survey and presented a That report indicated we had to take action very report on the state of the rivers of Victoria. It was an quickly. Apart from this Bill a great deal of work has objective report that did not try to state solutions for been done on salinity control, which has had the some of the problems of the river systems; it just support of both sides of the House. I do not reported what the state of the rivers of Victoria was foreshadow any amendment. I do not intend to put at that time. the Barwon River, which is in my electorate, on the heritage list at this stage. No-one can accuse me of It was a frightening report because it said there were having a pecuniary interest because no river in my a lot of river systems suffering very badly. There electorate is included in this measure. I will be were a lot of well-meaning river improvement trusts investigating that over the next few days. that created considerable environmental problems because of their lack of understanding of what was I support this Bill. I have some concern about and needed in a river system. We are only just starting to will be seeking some explanation and clarification of understand some of it now. This report was an the amendments proposed by the opposition during eye-opener to many people. the Committee stage.

The State of the Environment Report 1988 prepared by I commend the government for introducing this Bill the Office of the Commissioner for the Environment and I commend the opposition for its support of it. I states: wish it a speedy passage.

Most of the State's rivers and streams have suffered Hon. P. R. HALL (Gippsland) - I am pleased to serious degradation of their water quality, aquatic speak in the debate on the Heritage Rivers Bill. animal and plant life. The most severe degradation has No-one in this debate, and no-one that I have spoken occurred. in the State's heavily agricultural central, to, disputes the fact that rivers and streams are a north-western and south-western regions, where valuable natural resource of this State, a resource riverine water quality suffers from high levels of that should not be thoughtlessly exploited. It is a turbidity, nutrient contamination and salinity, and the resource that should be protected with appropriate river bank or "riparian" zone is severely affected by measures. Our very existence depends on the water erosion and vegetation loss. in our rivers and streams. The resource has to be used in an appropriate way that achieves an HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

610 COUNCIL Tuesday, 28 April 1992 effective balance between the many environmental interests to ensure that the rivers and streams are not and developmental considerations and the domestic degraded and left in such a state that the resource is and industrial demands on our waterways. wasted. Those people are very careful in the management of that resource. It is true to say that this Bill has caused a lot of debate in my electorate, particularly in the East I cite as an example the irrigators who draw water Gippsland area, where five of the listed heritage from the Mitchell River in East Gippsland. Irrigators rivers flow. The decision to include the Mitchell are represented on the Mitchell River Water Board River in the list of heritage rivers has created which is the management authority for the river. The Significant concern in the Gippsland region. I have role of the authority is to monitor the water use and received many representations about the Bill from low-flow levels of the Mitchell River. Water from the concerned groups in East Gippsland, but almost Mitchell River, one of the rivers to be classified as a everyone recognises the need to conserve the natural heritage river in the Bill, is used primarily for three flow of our rivers and to put into effect practical purposes: to supply the domestic needs of the measures to protect them. Perhaps that view is best regional centre around the City of Bairnsdale; to expressed in a letter from the Shire of Avon which supply some of the needs of irrigators, sums up the sentiments of many groups in my predominantly vegetable growers, on the fertile electorate. In a letter of 12 April the shire secretary Lindenow Flats in East Gippsland; and for its states: recreational values for fishing, canoeing and rafting.

While the Avon Shire Council strongly supports the The Mitchell River is one of 17 rivers listed in the Bill concern of sensitive and effective control of our rivers, to bear the title of heritage river. Further, it is one of acknowledging rivers as an important part of our the rivers in which "no impoundments, artificial heritage, it holds concern for the manner and degree to barriers or structures are to be constructed". Tonight which protection is proposed in the report. Given the I shall confine my contribution to East Gippsland already quite extensive controls over rivers exercised and particularly to the Mitchell River because the by a number of government departments and in proposal to include it as a heritage river has created addition, local river management boards, the need for Significant public debate in my electorate. I refer the further specific legislation is strongly contested. House to copies of submissions on the Bill from the Further, it is suggested there now exists a greater city and shire of Bairnsdale. In a letter of appreciation than ever before and at all levels of the 16 December 1991 the City of Bairnsdale states: importance of rivers and the need for their protection and proper use. The Mitchell River, historically, has been subject to large fluctuations in its water level. The security of Avon shire council believes that in exercising control water supply is seen as a major factor limiting and protection of rivers it is important a proper balance economic growth and employment opportunities be maintained between the environmental, economic within the region, a factor recognised in the 1988 East and social values of rivers and would question whether Gippsland Regional Economic Development the heritage rivers report has achieved that "balance" Committee Strategy Plan "Prospects". believing too much weight has been given to environmental considerations. Many members of the community are of the opinion that a dam on the Mitchell River is required to ensure a I agree with the sentiments expressed by the Shire of satisfactory security of water supply, to satisfy both Avon. I am pleased that during the Committee stage increasing demands and the needs of irrigators. the opposition parties will move amendments to create a better balance between the demands placed Hon. B. W. Mier - What about the lakes? on water flowing in our rivers and streams throughout the State. It is my view that many people Hon. P. R. HALL - In a letter of 16 January the believe our rivers are being exploited and Shire of Baimsdale made a similar point: consequently degraded by the direct users of the resource. I know from Mr Mier's earlier interjections Water is an essential commodity for the future growth that he certainly holds that view. To my mind that is and development of this region and no legislation far from the truth. My experience is that the people should be passed without guaranteeing to local associated directly with the use of rivers are very residents that its water demands for urban water careful in protecting the rivers because their supplies, tourism, industry, agriculture and livelihoods depend on them. It is in their best horticulture can be accommodated. HERITAGE RIVERS BaL

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E.arlier Mr Mier asked ''What about the lakes?" I will 40 per cent. Currently we import tonnes of it from respond to his interjection when I refer to the the United States of America yet we have the environmental concerns of ensuring that we have capacity for growing it ourselves in Victoria were we aodequate flows of water down the Mitchell River. to better harvest and control the use of our natural The government's proposal to prevent a dam being resource, water. There are good reasons for one day oonstructed on the Mitchell River completely considering the construction of a dam on the disregards the future needs of the East Gippsland Mitchell River, which could be done without any p'eople. Plans and action have already been taken on detrimental effect to the environment. An upstream the proposal to build the dam. It is recognised that a storage dam on the river would be filled at a time of dam is essential for the future domestic needs of the flood and the flow could be regulated during the a.rea. The East Gippsland area around Baimsdale traditional low levels in summer. One could harness through to Lakes Entrance is one of the most rapid some of the environmental damage done during growth centres in Victoria. A more reliable and times of flood. Water could be released from the S€cure water supply is required to cater for the dam to ensure that the flow levels are kept to a future domestic water needs of this growth area. In minimum standard and that would be helpful for my view that can be achieved only by constructing a the fish and the aquatic flora and fauna. One could dam on the Mitchell River in the near future. guarantee a continual river flow rather than the present mere dribble during the summer period. A major advantage of the dam would be to address the future agricultural and industrial needs of the Hon. B. W. Mier - What about the lakes? area. I refer the House to a large vegetable processing plant in the City of Baimsdale known as Hon. P. R. HALL - The lakes would be better Garden Land. It normally employs 150 permanent served by having a consistent flow 12 months of the staff and in peak periods of the season it employs up year and not a reduced flow during the summer to 240 people in its processing area. The future of period. A dam on the Mitchell River would address Garden Land is under threat. It may be forced to some of the severe damage caused during times of close because it has not been guaranteed a regular flood. and adequate supply of water. That would be disastrous not only for the people working at the Any member of the House who had visited vegetable processing plant but also for the many Bairnsdale two years ago during the last major flood vegetable growers in Gippsland who supply the raw of the Mitchell River would have seen the material for processing. All vegetables processed at devastation caused to the local community. It would Garden Land are grown in Gippsland. have shocked most of us. An upstream storage dam has the potential to minimise some of that flood Recently, when speaking with one of the managers damage. of Garden Land, I was advised that with a more adequate supply of water Garden Land had the A dam on the Mitchell River was first proposed in potential to double the amount of processing it is the mid-1960s, and for some years environmental currently undertaking. Further, the processing studies were carried out and different sites were material - the vegetables - could be grown in the considered. In 1978 the then Premier announced that Bairnsdale area if greater irrigation were allowed the Mitchell River project would proceed. Some from the Mitchell River. At present there is no $3 million was spent on building access roads to the thought of increasing irrigation in the Mitchell River dam site. Preliminary drilling and excavation of the area because of the need for adequate flows, but if dam wall was carried out. an upstream storage facility were constructed it would be possible to regulate the flow and increase The project was halted in 1982 when the government vegetable production in the area. came to office. I hope one day the dam will be built. It is certainly needed in the east Gippsland area. I Hon. W. R. Baxter - And value adding! am pleased that a number of amendments are foreshadowed that will ensure a dam will be Hon. P. R. HALL - And value adding, as considered on the Mitchell River. Mr Baxter points out. During my recent visit to Garden Land, the manager said that within the Personally I do not favour the heritage tag being Lindenow Flats area they grow the finest sweet corn applied to the 17 proposed rivers in the Bill. There is in the world. Given an increase in irrigation they no worthwhile advantage in creating new legislation could decrease Australian imports of sweet corn by when existing legislation has all the protective HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

612 COUNCIL Tuesday, 28 April 1992 measures required to ensure that our rivers are not Generally, poor water quality was detected exploited. downstream of unsewered urban development. It is likely that these water quality problems are caused by If the majority of members decide to support the poorly functioning septic tank system and by untreated classification of heritage to apply to our rivers, so be sullage discharges. The poorest water quality was it. But, importantly, the opposition's foreshadowed detected at Yarra Junction and Launching Place. amendments will ensure that no immediate disadvantage is incurred by the current users of the Clearly the document says that the Environment streams and their catchment areas. I support Protection Authority has jurisdiction and controls that will ensure the protection of our enforcement but that is not being carried out. natural resources, our streams and rivers. I support the Heritage Rivers Bill. As a fly fisherman Hon. G. R. CRAIGE (Central Highlands) - It is I have fished the Big, Howqua and Goulbum rivers. important that a degree of responsibility is accepted Their beauty is a memory one will hold forever. by those who introduce such legislation. One of the Early in the morning with a mist hanging over the rivers included in the Bill is the Yarra River. I shall Goulburn River one will often see a red robin or a quote from the Environment Protection AuthOrity blue wren. Not many members would have had that Scientific Series, SRS92jOO1 entitled Impacts of Urban experience. The tranquillity of such a moment is Wastewater on the Upper Yarra River and its Tributaries. precious and we must not lose such opportunities. If The introduction states, in part: the government is serious and wishes to place our rivers in an important classification, it cannot and Protection of water quality in the Yarra River must not be allowed to shirk its responsibility when catchment is the responsibility of the Environment it comes to river management and provision of the Protection Authority. dollar. It must put up its dollar and provide proper management when it decides to introduce such In 1991 an extensive survey was carried out of the legislation. It can no longer walk away. It is time for Yarra River in areas around Yarra Junction, the public and the community to make the Wesburn, Warburton and Woori Yallock. government measure up to its responsibilities.

Hon. B. W. Mier - What about Swanson Dock? Over some time many river improvement trusts have done good work although some have not. Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - The results of the survey Recently I inspected some of the work done by a state: river improvement trust at Alexandra. There is a clear commitment from many people in our From the results obtained in this study it is apparent community to preserve our valuable rivers. that water, in drains and water courses downstream of unsewered residential areas in the Shire of Upper The fishing and recreational pursuits available in the Yarra, was polluted by both septic tank and sullage areas of the Howqua River and the Big River are wastes and did not meet the SEPP objectives. Other most important; many honourable members know studies have also shown that water quality within the about the famous Sheep Flats area. Upper Yarra area is adversely affected by urban wastes. For example, biological monitoring of the Yarra River Hon. Rosemary Varty - A great place. indicates that sites at Woori Yallock and Warrandyte are stressed due to organic enrichment. Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - Yes, a great place where mountain cattlemen run a top event every year. The The conclusions state: area is truly magnificent but we must ensure that declared heritage zones are allowed a continued use This study indicates that, in the Shire of Upper Yarra, and that those who use such areas respect them. several water quality objectives specified in the Yarra River SEPP are not met in tributaries of the Yarra River. It should also be noted that the Goulburn River In particular, dissolved oxygen and anionic surfactants suffers the effects of drying up in the summer do not comply. High levels of E.coli were also detected. because of the controls at the weir, with rapid river In addition, biochemical oxygen demand was elevated flow at other times. It invites the question about the above background levels in many locations. overall management of that river. I argue that at times we should have a more stable environment. HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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Hon. W. R. Baxter - Without the weir it would Victoria are farmers, miners and sawmillers was an dry up, the weir keeps it flowing. absurd notion, to use Mr Seott's phrase.

Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - The Goulburn River We are in a deal of difficulty if Mr Seott has so little needs to be managed so that it is not seen to be dry understanding of what underpins the economy of one week and flowing rapidly the next. There must Victoria because I entirely reject his claim that that is be a systematic assessment of our rivers. Data must an absurd notion. I have been most disappointed be collected on a uniform basis because at the that Mr Seott took it upon himself to make those moment the data gathered by different groups, comments not only in correspondence to me but also authorities and departments goes in all directions. in letters to newspapers throughout Victoria. I That does not add to the constructive management believe he is wrong. of the rivers nor to a proper environmental management of Victoria's and Australia's I am glad the LCC finally decided not to recommend waterways. wholesale fencing out of streams. That is not feasible for a number of reasons, not the least of which being We must immediately commence with available the cost involved to the adjoining landowners data and move quickly to assess properly and in an bearing in mind, as Mr Evans so graphically orderly fashion our rivers and streams to determine portrayed earlier this evening, that in most instances their future so that all may maintain their links with where private land abuts streams one encounters the rivers for either water supply, agricultural or riverland flood plains. recreational purposes. That management tool can be achieved with little expense. Tomorrow the In those circumstances floods would sweep away government could start organising and collecting any fences; someone would have to bear the expense data. of replacing the fences. The lower reaches of the Goulburn River experience a flood every two years; This Bill will achieve nothing unless the government Significant lengths of fencing there would be provides a commitment to funding and frequently destroyed. management. The community must respect its rivers and their Significance. The government must accept Also, if a frontage were fenced out a fire hazard its responsibility to maintain our heritage rivers. would rapidly develop and if the undergrowth were allowed to get out of control it would become a Hon. W. R. BAXTER (North Eastern) - The hazard, and a haven for vermin - foxes, feral cats, inquiry undertaken by the Land Conservation rabbits, and the like. Areas where blackberry growth Council (LCC) into heritage rivers caused much could get out of hand may become a habitat for such concern throughout rural Victoria, and particularly vermin. It saddens me to say that blackberries are in my province and, I understand, in Gippsland. getting out of hand. In the past few years in Initially most people considered any declaration of particular blackberries have spread at an alarming heritage rivers would refer to the upper reaches of rate, caused in large part by a slashing of the funds those rivers, particularly to some of the pristine made available to the Department of Conservation areas where the rivers flow through Crown land and Environment to control the spread of the weed with no private adjacent land. on public land.

It was with some concern the landowners realised On Sunday I visited the Ovens and Kiewa valleys. that the LCC was proposing to declare rivers as While travelling on the road from Mount Beauty to heritage rivers in areas where they run through Bright across the Tawonga Gap I was saddened to farmland; that was the subsequent result, as has see the extent of the spread of blackberries across been alluded to tOnight by a number of honourable bush land. Blackberries will soon become a menace members. Certainly there was concern that the in those areas where streams are required to be council's draft report may recommend general and fenced off. wholesale fencing out of stream frontages. The coalition does not object to the fencing off of That led to some comment in the media and an problem areas, as Mr Birrell has already said. I have exchange of correspondence between the Chairman seen many useful examples of the fencing off of of the LeC, Mr David Seott, and me, which finally problem areas along streams. With the assistance of became a little vitriolic and led to Mr Seott stating the local LandCare group the Department of that my claim that the principal wealth producers in Conservation and Environment and landholders HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

614 COUNCIL Tuesday, 28 April 1992 have addressed the problems along the Indigo The ACTING PRESIDENT - Order! The Creek, which is in my electorate, to the advantage of number of conversations in the Chamber is making the community at large. it difficult for me to hear Mr Baxter.

The Huon Creek, which is a tributary of the House Hon. W. R. BAXTER - The regeneration will be Creek, which in turn is a tributary of the River enhanced by the selected logging of some of the Murray, is a small creek in north-eastem Victorian older trees, so I am glad that the Bill will not prohibit that has been fenced off from stock with the that activity. I am also pleased that the government assistance of the local LandCare group, whose intends to introduce an amendment to allow the valuable work has lessened the problems caused by continuation of existing grazing rights on heritage the local rabbit population and has helped get rid of rivers. Although the initiative will be valuable, I am noxious weeds. concerned that already the Department of Conservation and Environment has taken upon itself On the surface the idea is tremendous. Although the the modifying of long-standing grazing rights. Some creek is becoming attractive to passers by, it is also landholders with frontages to the Goulburn River becoming overgrown, and when it becomes below Shepparton have already received notices strangled with cane grass, cumbungi and other from the department - not last week, but last year growth, on the next occasion there is a cloud burst and the year before - advising them that they will such as occurred in the Huon Creek Valley in 1986, not be allowed to graze sheep on their frontages and the course of the creek is likely to change. Of course will have to restrict such grazing to cattle only. creeks have changed course for thousands of years, which I suppose does not matter on open farm land. That raises the problems about fencing I referred to But in its lower reaches the Huon Creek flows earlier. That area is sheep country, not cattle through urban Wodonga; and what a hue and cry country. If landholders are not allowed to carry out will go up when the creek changes course across the their normal farming practices - that is, farming backyards of Wodonga residents! sheep - without having to fence off their frontages, they will find themselves in difficulty. One of the No doubt the local LandCare group and the problems with fencing off certain areas is that government will be criticised for allowing the stream inevitably the fences are washed away every second bed to become so congested with undergrowth as to year. It is hard enough to make a farming dollar now force the creek to change course. I put those remarks without-- on the record, not only as a plea for balance but also to enable me to say, '1 told you so" when the creek Hon. B. T. Pull en interjected. changes course. That may not occur for another 50 years - the November 1986 flood was called a Hon. W. R. BAXTER -If you think the floods once-in-SO-years occurrence - but there is nothing are caused by erosion brought about by grazing, you to say that it will not. If the creek floods considerable show your ignorance of the problem, particularly in damage will be wrought on private land. By the Lower Goulbum area! I invite the Minister for pointing to the danger now, I will be able to say that Conservation and Environment to visit the area and at least some of us saw it coming. point out one example of erosion that has been caused by grazing. I cannot think of one example of I am surprised that the Lower Goulbum River has erosion, let alone erosion caused by grazing. been declared a heritage river. As Mr Evans said, the Lower Goulbum has been substantially modified I can find many examples of erosion in my electorate over 100 years of European settlement, so by no caused by the Minister's government. The most stretch of the imagination can it be said to be in a obvious is the impact of the construction by VIC pristine condition. That is not to say it is not in good ROADS of the Hume Freeway, which has caused the order, because it is. I am pleased that the Bill will not most dreadful scar across land at exclude timber harvesting from the Lower North Barnawartha. The construction of the freeway Goulbum, which has been a Significant source of has quickened and concentrated the flow of water river red gum for many years - and will continue to off the hills into the River Murray. Until recently the be so. government has done nothing; it was pressured by local members and locallandholders into accepting A great deal of natural regeneration of river red its responsibility by admitting that the construction gums is occurring on the Lower Goulbum, which of the freeway had caused the erosion. will be enhanced -- HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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Hundreds of tonnes of soil have been dumped in the On 2 March my colleague the honourable member river, resulting in the most dreadful scar across for Rodney and I attended a public meeting private property, which will take years to eradicate. convened at Kotupna. A decision was made by the landholders not to proceed with the scheme. So far Despite that the Minister has the nerve to talk about as I am concerned those are my instructions from erosion on the flat country along the Lower my constituents. Those on the northern side of the Goulburn River, where no such examples of erosion Goulburn River do not wish to go ahead with that exist that I am aware of. strategy. It is my firm view that in the future demands will again be made for works on that The Lower Goulburn is flood prone. For many years section of the river to better manage flood flows. it has been subject to -- I want to ensure that the declaration of the lower Hon. T. C. Theophanous - Floods don't cause Goulburn River as a heritage river will not impinge erosion; is that right? upon a community decision to undertake certain works along the lower Goulburn River, such as the Hon. W. R. BAXTER - Lower Goulburn floods installation of spillways in existing levy banks and are slow moving. I am not talking about the sorts of the remodelling of existing levy banks to manage floods you are alluding to. If you don't know flood flows. I do not want to see the legislation used anything about the specific locality of which I am in the future to maintain the status quo because the speaking you should keep quiet! river has been dramatically modified over the years.

In the 1890s the government of the day hired It would be a tragedy if in the future the legislation unemployed people to build levy banks along the was employed to prevent any useful work taking Lower Goulburn River. Quite substantial place. I do not suggest that is the intent of the modifications have been made to the flow of the legislation but I am concerned that with the river. Nevertheless floods have continued to occur. declaration of the lower Goulburn River as a In 1922 a decision was made to rate certain heritage river it might be construed that Parliament landholders on the northern side of the Goulburn has said the present condition of the river and River. The Loch Garry Protection District was environs will become inviolate so that new work established. In 1926 a spillway was built at Loch that is needed cannot be done. Garry and since that time farmers within the flood protection district have paid rates, which has always In the future it will be essential that new works are struck me as a contradiction in terms. They have installed and additional spillways are incorporated paid rates and they have continued to suffer floods. into the existing levies to allow orderly and Nevertheless the nuisance floods have been predictable outflows of flood water rather than the controlled and instead of being flooded every current situation of a reliance on random and second year flooding occurs one year in every four unpredictable breaks in the levy banks to pass flood or five years. flows down below Shepparton. I do not believe it is the intent of the legislation that in the future flood In 1974 there was a large flood in northern Victoria, flow will be restricted in the lower Goulbum River. I mainly on the Goulburn River. The State Rivers and would be most unhappy if that were to be the Water Supply Commission commissioned a situation. consultant to prepare a flood strategy for the better management of floods - they could not be Hon. B. W. MIER (Waverley) -I support the prevented; there is no way of doing that - and to Bill. Firstly, I shall refer to the comments made by deal with the outflow from the Goulburn River at earlier speakers that the Bill should be approached times of high natural flow. The river narrows from on a bipartisan basis. The Bill has relevance not only McCoys Bridge to Echuca and so there has to be to Victoria but also to Australia generally. Party some way for the flow to escape from the river politics should not be brought into play when because it cannot be conveyed down river. debating such important legislation. We are aware Subsequently, 16 or 17 years have gone by. The that it is unique legislation in the Commonwealth of consultants produced a strategy which was the Australia. I understand it is the first of this type of subject of widespread debate among local legislation to come before a State Parliament on a landholders and, I, as one of the local members, have neutral basis. I commend the Minister on its been involved. I am unhappy that we have been introduction. unable to reach agreement in the local community. HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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When we consider legislation such as this we should the Thomson River Dam, which would speed up the look at our nation in broad terms. In reality flow. Australia's greatest asset is its water. Without water we have nothing. lbis is the largest island on the Because of action taken by a host of people, planet. It has the lowest water supply. In other including the Labor Party, the plan never went words the rainfall is not as high as we would like. ahead. The major part of the continent is arid or semi-arid. It receives low levels of rain over long periods. As a Of course the Aberfeldy runs as a free, clean and result we must be extremely careful about uninhibited river. I appreciate the fact that preserving this resource. The availability of this Mr Birrell's amendment is intended to take into resource will determine our future in farming, account the fact that the Aberfeldy River should be industry and in the development of residential areas included in the Heritage Rivers Bill. The question of and cities. damming rivers is one that has created strenuous debate in this House over many years, certainly Honourable members cannot consider the legislation before my time. Nevertheless, I have heard past without examining some of the bad experiences of debates associated with the damming of the Mitchell the past. One of the worst in recent times has been River. Mr Hall referred to the fact that it was the dreadful effect of the bad management of the important that the Mitchell River be dammed. Darling River. For some months earlier this year and Actually I believe there is no real need to dam that probably last year the river was virtually dead. One river. By doing so we would create additional of the major problems was the fact that the river has problems as most damming programs do, apart four State governments administering it: from the fact that damming slows the flow of rivers Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and South and increases salinity as well. Australia. Unfortunately over some years those governments have not been able to get together to The Mitchell River is integral to the Gippsland Lakes produce proper planning to manage the river. Dams system and is required to flush out those lakes, that have been constructed in the headwaters of the which are in a bad state. river have been committed 100 per cent to farming. Hon. R. J. Long - Don't you think the Thomson In the case of Queensland that water has been was used to flush the lakes? committed to cotton farming and in New South Wales numerous towns along the river empty their Hon. B. W. MIER - In this House a few years waste and sewerage into it. Of approximately 20 ago I heard you condemn the fact that the flow from towns along the river I believe only three have the Thomson River Dam would not flush the proper sewerage processing plants. lbis factor has Gippsland Lakes. You said that. had a dramatic effect on the lower reaches of the river in South Australia where it flows into the River Hon. R. J. Long - Rubbish! Murray, which in turn flows into South Australia. Unfortunately for South Australians, particularly Hon. B. W. MIER - You said it in support of the people living in Adelaide, that State draws most of then shadow Minister Mr Hunt when he spoke on its water from the River Murray. To Australians, the question of the Thomson River Dam. You, water is very precious; therefore, when we consider Mr Long, supported the expansion of irrigation the Heritage Rivers Bill we have to appreciate its along the lower reaches of the Thomson River. You intent. are speaking with a forked tongue and you have a short memory. There are two proposed amendments. The first concerns the inclusion of the Aberfeldy River which Hon. R. J. Long - I have a very long memory. I fully support because I recall that some years ago plans were made to dam the river during the Hon. B. W. MIER - It is required to run in a construction of the Thomson River Dam. The then free-flowing form so it will flush the Gippsland Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of Works, the Lakes. The fact that some market gardens might authority responsible for the construction of the spring up along the Mitchell River were it to be dam, proposed to drive a tunnel through the area dammed does not balance the books so far as the that divided the dam from the river. The river would cost is concerned, and it is not only a financial cost then flow through the tunnel and be diverted into but an environmental cost. HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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Mr Mackenzie referred to a report on Victorian Hon. B. W. MIER - I shall do that but I want to rivers which was presented in 1988. It outlines the use the Darling River as a good example of what can very delicate and sensitive nature of our rivers. occur if proper administration does not take place. Unless we take extreme care with the management Unless we properly administer Victorian rivers the of the State's rivers and unless we get together to same thing will occur. care for them in a proper way we will continue to slowly but surely destroy them. I am referring not Again I point out that Mr Birrell's proposed only to the 17 or 18 rivers referred to in the Bill but amendment to include the Aberfeldy River is a the many additional rivers because of their extreme sound and practical one. Mr Hall's proposal to im portance to Queensland, Southern Queensland, eliminate the need to come back to the Parliament New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. when considering the construction of dams on Victorian rivers is a bad idea. The opposition is Nobody is supposed to water stock from rivers. always saying that all these issues must come back Mr Baxter indicated that he was concerned at to the Parliament for consideration. If dams are to be proposals to fence rivers off. There is no need to do constructed on our State's rivers Parliament should that. Watering stock in rivers is not the main be able to debate the matter. National Party concern; concern arises about the clearing of timber members sit in this House and continually complain along the rivers to enable stock to water. There is no that they are not consulted but when it comes to the n~d to do that. Clearing trees has been one of the construction of dams they thumb their noses at major problems with the Darling River. All its Parliament and use regulations or anything else timber was cleared to enable stock to water. within their means to do as they like with our rivers.

Hon. W. R. Baxter-Rubbish! Our rivers are precious assets and unless we manage and protect them correctly the future will be sad, not Hon. B. W. MIER - It has! so much for us but for our children.

Hon. W. R. BAXTER - Talk about something Motion agreed to. you know about! Read second time. Hon. B. W. MIER - It has! You know it! The reports clearly indicate that that is one of the major Committee reasons-- Clause 1 Hon. W. R. Baxter - You produce one report that backs that up! Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation and Environment) - I move: Hon. B. W. MIER - The development of algal 1. Clause 1, line 4, after "protection of" insert "public blooms along the river is due to the fact that the land in". river flow has been dramatically reduced. I thank honourable members for their general Hon. W. R. Baxter - It would have dried up this support for the Bill. With regard to the amendments year without dams! that have been circulated I can perhaps expedite the matter by saying that with the exception of the Hon. B. W. MIER - The dams blocked the flow. amendment that will be proposed by the opposition One hundred per cent of the catchment in the dams to remove the construction of any dams from the was committed to irrigation. scrutiny of Parliament, the government is prepared to accept the amendments proposed with some The ACTING PRESIDENT - Order! I am minor changes. having difficulty relating Mr Mier's remarks to the Bill before the House. I understand that he is With regard to the important transitional provision discussing rivers in other States with a view to the two amendments - the one that I proposed and somehow bringing them together to relate to the one proposed by Mr Birrell - are capable of Victoria's rivers system. At this stage Mr Mier being easily combined and I suggest that can be should come back to the matter of Victoria's rivers. achieved when the time comes.

Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to. HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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Oause2 expressing their views, and the final recommendations of the LCC on this issue have Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I move: spelt out clearly how the various rivers are to be managed. 1. Clause 2, line 11, omit "or days". The aim of the amendment is to ensure that all of the The amendments will add to the bureaucracy and Bill is proclaimed on one day. cause this whole issue to drag on. It is unnecessary and concerns have been expressed by people in the Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to; conservation movement that it will lead to clauses 3 to 7 agreed to. bureaucratic interference. I oppose the amendments.

OauseS Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - With the utmost respect, I think Mr Mackenzie has Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I move: misunderstood the intention of the amendments. The Land Conservation Council has recommended 2. Clause 8, after line 25 insert - that certain rivers be protected and that "() A management plan proposed to be made management plans be made for those rivers. We are under this section must be made available for not questioning that. We are saying that it is utterly public inspection for at least 60 days before it is reasonable that a management plan should have to made. go through some process of consultation. We discussed this matter with the LCC which made it ( ) The managing authority must have regard to clear to us that it expected management plans to be any comments made by persons who have made public and to be subject to some period of inspected the management plan during the public discussion. That is all we are asking for. inspection period. n.

3. Clause 8, after line 31 insert - It is not sufficient to say the LCC report was subject to public discussion because what we have "() the managing authority must cause a copy of a recommended is another process, which is that management plan made under this section and of management plans for each heritage river should be any amendment or revocation of such a plan to be subject to some form of public discussion. I do not published in the Government Gazette. think 60 days would cause an intolerable delay. ( ) Sections 5, 6 and 6A of the Subordinate There is no hidden agenda - we are trying to Legislation Act 1962 apply to and in respect of a entrench an existing practice by applying it to management plan made under this section, and virtually any management plan proposed by any any amendment or revocation of such a plan, as if government agency. the plan, amendment or revocation were a statutory rule within the meaning of that Act, Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation notice of which had been published in the and Environment) - The government will not Government Gazette on the day on which the oppose the additional clause relating to the Minister approved the plan, amendment or provision of 60 days public scrutiny because it is not revocation. n. regarded as a disadvantage. There is always a problem of arriving at a balance between The amendments will ensure that management consultation and timeliness. However, given the plans are made available for inspection by the public importance of management plans and the impact for at least 60 days and that the relevant they can have on individuals, the government will management authority, which will be one of the not resist the amendments. existing authorities, takes account of comments that are made, preferably in writing, in any management I would, however, suggest a change to the part of plan. the amendment that reads: Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE (Geelong) - I am The managing authority must cause a copy of a concerned about the amendments proposed. On the management plan made under this section and of any face of it they seem fairly reasonable but a amendment or revocation of such a plan to be considerable degree of public consultation has published in the Government Gazette. already occurred under the Land Conservation Council's processes whereby people have had two opportunities of making contributions and HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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Management plans could run to hundreds of pages. construction or diversion on one of the heritage I suggest the removal of the words "a copy" and the rivers, although there will inevitably be people from substitution of the word "notice" so that it would time to time who support such a concept. The read: government has not brought forward that proposal.

... must cause notice of a management plan made under As we understand it, government agencies do not this section ... have that on foot. The coalition has no policy to build such a dam or create diversions on any If a notice were placed in the Government Gazette it heritage rivers. We believe the legislation is better would direct people's attention to it without the stated in the form we are suggesting. necessity of having a management plan published in the Government Gazette. Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation and Environment) - The government totally rejects Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - The the amendment. Very weak arguments in support of Minister has suggested an amendment to my the amendment have been put forward by amendment No. 3 and I accept his suggestion. Mc Birrell. It is completely inconsistent with the attitude shown by the opposition in relation to, for Amendment No. 3 amended by leave. instance, other sections or regulations where on many occasions the opposition has argued quite Amendment No. 2 agreed to. strongly that the Parliament should have the right to judge those regulations. Amended amendment No. 3 agreed to; amended clause agreed to. Here we see that argument turned completely on its head. The opposition is saying that something as THE ACTING CHAIRMAN important as the damming or diversion of a river is (Hon. D. E. Henshaw) - Before proceeding with okay, that it can be done by Cabinet and that, to clause 9, I shall clarify to the Committee that the embark on the construction of a dam or the amendments circulated in the Minister's name are diversion of a river - in this case, a heritage river - dated 28 April; apparently an earlier copy had been if this legislation passes, does not need the scrutiny circulated to the Committee. The changes to his of Parliament. second amendment refer to clause 21 rather than clause 18 and a change appears at the end of the On one hand the opposition is saying, as I suggested clause, namely, ''heritage river area". I am understood the remarks in the second-reading advising the Committee that a new set of debate, that it supports this initiative for heritage amendments has been circulated in the Minister's rivers. The opposition said it welcomes the Bill and name. the work of the Land Conservation Coundl (LCC). Yet on the other hand it wants this little change, and Clause 9 agreed to. if we want to dam or divert a river, notwithstanding all the fine things we have said, the decision does Clause 10 not have to come back to Parliament for debate in both Houses; it does not have to be part and parcel Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I move: of a recommendation, we just place a notice in the Government Gazette, and the Governor in Council 4. Clause 10, line 13, after "3" insert "unless the says it is a decision that Cabinet can make. Governor in Council by notice published in the Government Gazette, approves its construction in It is transparent that a decision has been made to that area". leave open the path at some stage for damming or The reasons for the amendment were outlined in the some other change. To suggest there is no intention second-reading debate. We believe it is appropriate to have any damming is really an attempt at a that this matter be left to a decision by Governor in cover-up. We do not know of any reasons the Council by notice published in the Government government would ever want such a change. We are Gazette. prepared to indicate that if there were a damming proposal it would require legislation passed by To a certain extent this debate is academic in that Parliament. neither the opposition nor the government has suggested that there should be any dam HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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Only the opposition would have any desire to Guest,Mr Ives, Mr embark upon the damming or diversion of a river; Lawson,Mr Landeryou, Mr why else would it want to amend this legislation to Tehan,Mrs Sgro,Mr enable that to happen? I do not know whether the opposition members who supported the general Amendment agreed to. thrust of the Bill were rolled in the party room, but it seems to me that the amendment totally negates the Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I move: spirit of the legislation. The government will divide 5. Clause 10, line 15, after "3" insert "unless it is on the amendment and oppose it to the hilt. approved by the Governor in Council by notice published in the Government Gazette". Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE (Geelong) - I am very pleased that the government is taking a strong stand 6. Clause 10, after line 20, insert- because I agree entirely with what the Minister says. "() Sub-section (3) does not apply to a water It seems quite remarkable given that the opposition, diversion approved by the Governor in Council by especially over the past 12 months or so, has been notice published in the Government Gazette.". arguing very strongly on a range of issues about the supremacy of Parliament and that decisions of this The amendments flow from the previous debate. sort ought to be referred to Parliament. Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation Although Mr Birrell can be quite sincere, and no and Environment) - The government opposes all doubt he is offering assurances, he has no control the amendments to clause 10 that will have the effect over what will happen in the future. He may not be of removing from the scrutiny of Parliament any the Minister for Conservation and Environment; he application to dam or divert a heritage river. I am might not even be a Minister. Events could take taking the division we have just had as a test on the place well after he has retired. issue but the government is firmly opposed to all such amendments that have the effect of enabling It is important to remember that decisions have been damming or diversion of rivers to be undertaken by made in the past by Governor in Council without Cabinet decision as against a decision that comes the authority of this Parliament and the people of before Parliament as an amendment to legislation. I Victoria have lived to regret them. I am very pleased should have thought it preferable that if it were to be that the government is taking a strong stand and I made clear, "approved by Parliament" would have certainly support its opposition to the amendment. been substituted rather than "approved by the Governor in Council", if that capacity were to be Committee divided on amendment: emphasised. It is always open to Parliament to amend legislation in that way. Ayes, 19 Ashman,Mr Hallam,Mr As I said, the government will continue to oppose all Baxter, Mr Knowles,Mr amendments to clause 10 that have the effect of Best,Mr Long,Mr removing the ability of Parliament to deal with the Birrell, Mr Macey, Mr issues and transferring that ability to Cabinet and Chamberlain, Mr Miles, Mr (Teller) Governor in Council. Connard,Mr Skeggs, Mr (Teller) Craige, Mr Smith,Mr Amendments agreed to. de Fegely, Mr Storey, Mr Evans,Mr Varty,Mrs Hon. W. R. BAXTER (North Eastern) - I do not Hall,Mr doubt Mr Mier's sincerity, but I am disappointed Noes, 14 that his understanding of the situation is somewhat Crawford, Mr McLean,Mrs lacking. I want to give a couple of brief examples Davidson, Mr Mier, Mr (Teller) and put them on the record because I would not Hogg,Mrs Pullen,Mr want his comments in Hansard to be taken as the Kennedy,Mr Theophanous, Mr view of Parliament as a whole. Kokocinski, Ms (Teller) Van Buren, Mr Lyster, Mrs Walker,Mr Mr Mier was suggesting that the dams on the Mackenzie, Mr White,Mr Darling River were the principal cause of the Pairs outbreak of algal bloom this year. I invite Mr Mier to Cox,Mr Coxsedge, Mrs contemplate what is the real situation and to reflect HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

Tuesday, 28 April 1992 COUNCIL 621 on the fact that without dams this year the Darling diversion, particularly in sensitive areas. The River would have dried up and become a series of opposition has reinforced the sensitivity of those waterholes, exactly as the River Murray did prior to areas by allowing them to be declared heritage the construction of the Hume Weir. I have in my rivers under the Planning and Environment Act, the possession a photograph of Sir Ronald East standing Environment Effects Act and the Water Act. astride the River Murray in 1916. Without the dams, the Darling River would have been in a similar It is abundantly clear that if there ever were a situation to the River Murray as depicted in that proposition to build a dam or diversion on any of photograph. these rivers - there is none that we are aware of - it would be the subject of the most rigorous public I agree that some of the problems associated with scrutiny and debate and the most rigorous statutory the Darling River were caused by effluent run-offs control. It would also be open to Parliament to be a from towns; that problem needs to be addressed. I participant or a leader in that debate. do not agree with Mr Mier's contention that widespread timber clearing has taken place along This is an academic debate for all but a few people. the banks of the Darling River. If he were aware of The opposition has drawn strength from the existing the topographical situation, Mr Mier would know legislation, which penetrates every aspect of a that the river does not flow through timber country potential debate, and which would control every but flows largely through open grassland or aspect and potential negative or positive side of any woodland. I suggest that less than 1 per cent of the debate of this nature. area has been cleared and that certainly none of it has been cleared in the sense of commercial timber Hon. R. J. LONG (Gippsland) - I also wish to harvesting, because it is not that sort of timber. criticise Mr Mier. He implied that I supported the building of the Thomson River dam. I make it I put it on the record that Mr Mier has a perfectly clear to Mr Mier, in case he has misunderstanding about the situation, albeit a misunderstood the position, that that support was genuine misunderstanding, in terms of the scenario on the basis that Gippsland would receive 49 000 he painted. acre feet of water over Cowwarr weir. What did your mob do? They pinched it! Hon. B. W. MIER (Waverley) - I do not have a misunderstanding of the situation. The Hon. B. W. Mier - To supply the City of over-commitment of the waters of the Darling River, Melbourne! particularly for cotton farming in the headwaters in southern Queensland, had an unbelievable effect on Hon. R. J. LONG - And you have the audacity the flow of water in the river; its flow was down to to stand here tonight and talk about environmental the level of the waterhole. Mr Baxter should flows into the Gippsland Lakes. I do not know how understand that the headwaters of that river have you have the audacity to even mention it. The water been over-committed and more than 120 per cent of now belongs to Melbourne Water and we have to the water in the dams concerned has been buy water for irrigation. If that is what you call fair committed. play, Mr Mier, you and I must part company.

Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I wish to Hon. B. W. Mier - The citizens of Melbourne respond to the Minister's statement on the have to buy their water; what is wrong with that? amendments that have been successfully moved. The Minister indicated that the amendments would Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation take away control of these areas from Parliament in and Environment) - If Mr BirreIl is so keen on the future. The opposition strenuously objects to any scrutiny, why move the amendment at all? Why did furphy being created that that is true. he not just leave the provision as it stands in the Bill under the control of Parliament? Mr BirreIl has not The Minister's proposition is wrong on two counts: answered that point. firstly, because Parliament is always at liberty to debate the land use of any of these areas and that Amended clause agreed to; clauses 11 to 16 agreed will always be the case in the future; and, secondly, to. because Parliament has already put in place legislation which the opposition strongly supports Clause 17 and which controls the construction of any dam or HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

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Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I move: House of Parliament passes a resolution, I suggest it would be more in line with the effect of the 7. Clause 17, line 28, before "A" insert "(I)". amendment if that were to read ''both Houses of 8. Clause 17, lines 31 and 32, omit "or with any other Parliament". I suggest that wording would be more person or organisation". appropriate in relation to agreements that may be made with the Commonwealth government or other Clause 17 gives the power to existing managing major bodies that should be dealt with by both authorities to enter into agreements with other Houses of Parliament. bodies. The opposition accepts this delegation or agreement power but is concerned about the breadth Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I of the power enabling managing authorities to enter understand the Minister's argument, but this into an arrangement with "any other person or amendment would make the clause consistent with organisation". That is effectively liberty to do the regulation power, which says that either House anything. can disallow a regulation. In practice the opposition does not regard this as being of great significance Short of having explained to us what that provision but would rather leave the amendment as moved. is designed for, and in the absence of any explanation, we seek to delete those words from the Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to. clause. The opposition is happy for the authorities to enter into an agreement with anyone with whom it Clause 18 is reasonable to have an agreement, but not with anyone. Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I move: During the private discussions the Minister 10. Clause 18, after line 18 insert - indicated that he would accept an amendment but "(3) Regulations made under this section may be wished to add the words "any municipality". The disallowed in whole or in part by resolution of opposition accepts the Minister's proposal. either House of the Parliament in accordance with the requirements of section 6(2) of the Amendments agreed to. Subordinate Legislation Act 1962. Hon. M. A. BIRRELL - In accordance with my (4) Disallowance under sub-section (3) is deemed previous remarks, I move: to be disallowance by the Parliament for the purposes of the Subordinate Legislation Act Clause 17, line 29, after "authority," insert 1962 .... "municipality,". It is the coalition's standard disallowance clause. Amendment agreed to. Amendment agreed to; amended clause agreed to; clauses 19 to 21 agreed to. Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I move: 9. Clause 17, after line 33 insert- New clause AA "(2) The Minister must cause notice in the Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation prescribed form of the making of an agreement to and Environment) - I move: be laid before each House of Parliament within 10 sitting days after it is made. 2. Insert the following New Clause to follow Clause 21:

(3) The agreement has no effect if either House of U AA. Transitional provision. Parliament passes a resolution declaring it be of no This Act is not to be taken to disturb the continuity, effect within 10 sitting days after notice of the operation or effect of any instrument made making of the agreement is laid before the House. granted or issued under any other Act before (4) The Minister must publish notice of the the commencement of this Act which resolution of the House in the Government authorises the carrying out of the grazing of Gazette.". domestic stock in a natural catchment area or heritage river area .... Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation and Environment) - In relation to the proposed The new clause is designed to achieve a transitional wording that the agreement have no effect if either arrangement and to ensure that it is clear, as HERITAGE RIVERS BILL

Tuesday. 28 April 1992 COUNCIL 623 recommended by the Land Conservation Council, Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation that the effect of the legislation is not intended to and Environment) - It is not intended for the new automatically override existing licences and clause to confer additional rights to those that instruments already in force. They will be currently exist for people holding instruments to considered on their merits according to the impact of graze cattle. They will be subject to the normal the land use. management and assessment procedures that will decide whether such licences should be renewed. I have, as indicated earlier, inserted the words "or During the transitional process the Bill does not seek heritage river area" to put beyond doubt the to wipe out existing rights that people may have by intention of the legislation. holding an instrument, such as a licence.

Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - The New clause agreed to. opposition welcomes the Minister's amendment because it will ensure that existing legal Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I advise the arrangements for grazing and stocking in natural Committee that I do not propose to proceed with my catchment areas or heritage river areas will continue amendment No. 11. and will be subject to future management decisions. Schedule 1 Hon. D. M. EV ANS (North Eastern) - I support the amendment and thank the Minister for moving Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I move: it. This issue was discussed fully during the 12. Schedule I, page 11, after Part 17 insert- second-reading debate when it was indicated that there will be occasions when the management "PART 18 - ABERFELDY RIVER HERITAGE AREA authority, in cooperation with the landowner, will ensure that grazing is precluded from some sensitive All those pieces of public land along the Aberfeldy areas along a river so bank protection works can be River within an area of 200 metres wide along each side carried out. of the river for its entire length within the boundaries of the Saw Saw National Park." The amendment is in line with the recommendations of the Land Conservation Council which has The amendment will add the Aberfeldy River to the indicated that grazing should be continued. The list of heritage rivers. The opposition believes it has amendment also supports the comments made on an accumulation of values that warrant its inclusion page 118 of the LCC report on the necessity for and recognition in the Bill. I welcome the response cooperation between the landowner and the of government members who have indicated their managing authority for effective management of the support. environment and other values along the river. Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE (Geelong) - I am and Environment) - The government has no concerned about the proposed amendment that is objection to the addition of the Aberfeldy River as a accepted by the opposition. I hope the proviSion will heritage river. The Land Conservation Council did override the agreement regarding grazing. I am not place the same value on that river as on other worried about the continual pressure placed on rivers. governments of all persuasions to increase grazing licences. Licences were always granted on an annual Hon. R. J. Long - That is a value judgment, basis and for many years pressure has been exerted surely. on governments and Ministers of the Crown to extend these licences. The previous Liberal Hon. B. T. PULLEN - I am merely reporting on government withstood that pressure because it the recommendations of the Land Conservation thought annual licences provided an opportunity for Council. I make the point that it is clearly within the immediate action to be taken during periods of powers of Parliament to go beyond the drought when areas needed to be restocked recommendations of the Land Conservation relatively quickly. If a lease or an agreement covers a Council, and this is one such case. three or seven-year period the government will not have the flexibility to allow restocking in periods of Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE (Geelong) - I support emergency. I do not see the necessity for the the amendment and I commend Mr Birrell for amendment. moving it. I understand that rivers listed in the ADJOURNMENT

624 COUNCIL Tuesday, 28 April 1992 schedule can be added to and, indeed, they have complex answer, yet two days later two officers been added to. I commend the opposition for the from her department told the council that the amendment. Premier required full market value for the same land that was promised in writing to be sold for $32 000. Amendment agreed to; amended schedule agreed Its current estimated value is somewhere between to; Schedule 2 agreed to. $500 000 and $700 000 instead of the $32 000 originally promised. Schedule 3 I ask the Minister to explain to the House whether Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation she intends to honour the promise of the former and Environment) - I move: Minister for Health, Mr David White, or whether she supports the Premier's demands that have currently 3. Schedule 3, page 14, Column 1, heading, omit been placed on the council. "contructed" and insert "constructed". 4. Schedule 3, page 15, Column 1, heading, omit Banyule Homestead "contructed" and insert "constructed". Hon. B. A. E. SKEGGS (Templestowe) - I raise Amendments agreed to. for the attention of the Minister for Conservation and Environment the future of the historic Banyule Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I move: Homestead in the City of Heidelberg. Several 13. Schedule 3, page 15, in Column 1 after "Glenelg approaches have been made in recent times to lease

River Heritage Area" insert 11Aberfeldy River the property, which is presently on lease to the City Heritage Area". of Heidelberg but which is unused. 14. Schedule 3, page 15, in column 3 after "Glenelg I am aware that an approach has already been made River Heritage Area" insert "Aberfeldy River to the Minister by the Association of Motoring Clubs Heritage Area". Incorporated, which is a non-profit State level Amendments agreed to; amended schedule agreed organisation with more than 130 member clubs, to; Schedules 4 and 5 agreed to. representing in excess of 30 000 Victorian hobby motorists, not including their families, with vehicles Reported to House with amendments. in all age categories. They are looking for a permanent home, and it would appear that the Passed remaining stages. Banyule Homestead, which has not been used for some time since it was abandoned as part of the ADJOURNMENT State gallery, is quite appropriate for a use of that type. Hon. D. R. WHITE (Minister for Manufacturing and Industry Development) - I move: Another approach was made earlier by another organisation expressing interest, and it was reported That the Council, at its rising, adjourn until tomorrow in The Heidelberger newspaper of 22 April under the

at 10.30 a.m. heading, 11Abandoned Banyule draws a business bid." The opening paragraph states: Motion agreed to. A businesswoman has offered to lease historic Banyule Hon. D. R. WHITE (Minister for Manufacturing House and convert it into a nail sculpting salon in a bid and Industry Development) - I move: to save the building from its white elephant status.

That the House do now adjourn. It is true that Heidelberg council was Originally keen to lease Banyule Homestead to convert and use it as Sale of land at Pakenham a community arts centre. Unfortunately, that aim never materialised. In fact, a Friends of Banyule Hon. K. M. SMITH (South Eastern) - Recently I group was formed to support that notion, and there asked the Minister for Health a question regarding was a lot of public enthusiasm for a community arts the 1986 promise made in writing to sell 20 hectares centre, but insufficient funding could be raised to of land at Pakenham to the Pakenham Shire Council support the project. for $32 000. In reply the Minister said it was a ADJOURNMENT

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Therefore, even though the Heidelberg City Council amount of $312 and he found, to his dismay, that an has had a lO-year lease on the building, since 1987 extra levy had been included. When he examined the council has not been able to put it to use, the City of Sandringham rate notice, which was not although at one stage a sublease was taken up by a received by him until early December, he found that decorative arts trust. That trust had the sublease for the property had been revalued, which increased the a time, but never put it to use. For the past net annual value from $6000 to $10 500. He is not 18 months it has been purely a matter of the council disputing that fact. What he is disputing is not being maintaining the grounds and security of the advised at all by Melbourne Water. The original building. Obviously the future of such an historic account of $584 should have been the account homestead is a matter of prime concern, particularly running through that year rather than, because of to the constituents of the City of Heidelberg and the the incident of the municipal revaluation, an Templestowe Province. additional account made up during the course of the paying of that account. It would have been an There is great public affection for that beautiful interesting observation, had he paid the total of the homestead -- $584.82 at the beginning, whether the subsidiary amount would have been raised to $312. The ACTING PRESIDENT-Order! The honourable member is beginning to make a speech, Consequently, I am asking the Minister for and he should wind up his remarks. Conservation and Environment to raise this as a matter of equity with his colleague, the Minister for Hon. B. A. E. SKEGGS - I should like the Water Resources, because my constituent is strongly Minister to see what can be done to consider objecting to having received an original account and approaches for leases as soon as possible so that the then receiving an amended account in the middle of future of the homestead can be more appropriately the course of that 12 months after he had paid that determined. It cannot go on forever without usage. I account. I agree that as a matter of equity the would sternly oppose any thought of it being sold. It account for next year, which will be raised toward should be held in public ownership and leased to an the end of this year, should reflect that increased appropriate and responsible organisation for valuation. I should be grateful if the Minister would effective use and maintenance. inquire of his colleague and communicate with me as soon as he can on this matter. I ask the Minister to consider any surrender of the lease by the Heidelberg City Council in favour of an Secret Treasures of Russia appropriate organisation, to ensure its usage and maintenance. Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE (Geelong) - I raise a matter with the Minister for Ethnic, Municipal and Melbourne Water account Community Affairs in her capacity as Minister representing the Minister for the Arts. I bring to the Hon. G. P. CONNARD (Higinbotham) - I raise Minister's attention an exhibition called the Secret a matter with the Minister for Conservation and Treasures of Russia which encompasses 1000 years Environment representing the Minister for Water of gold and silver from the State History Museum of Resources. I have been asked by one of my Moscow. It is the first time these remarkable constituents to bring this matter to the attention of treasures have been outside Russia. Australia has the Minister, and it applies to a water account my been chosen as the first country in which these constituent received last year. marvellous treasures are to be exhibited. It seems a shame that Victorians will not be given the The property involved is at 2 Backhaus Street, opportunity to see these wonderful Russian Hampton. He received his normal account in treasures. September last year for an amount of $584.82. My constituent decided to pay it in the four quarterly What makes this even more disappointing is that it instalments of $146.20, and proceeded for three is because of Victoria that they were coming to quarters to pay on 9 October 1991,4 December 1991 Australia in the first place. A group of Russians and 5 February 1992. He paid the last quarterly visited Australia some time ago and were so instalment before the due date. impressed with the Victorian LandCare system that they intended to carry out a similar LandCare Following the payment of the last instalment he program in Russia. As honourable members would received an account summary containing an extra know, Russia has problems with soil erosion and ADJOURNMENT

626 COUNCIL Tuesday, 28 April 1992 bad farming practices. To raise funds they what he has said to the Minister for the Arts to see if persuaded the State History Museum of Moscow to there is any possibility of different venues being allow the treasures to come to Australia. They are found so that all Victorians can have an opportunity currently being exhibited in Sydney and they are to share and participate in the exhibition. then to go to Brisbane and Perth. Efforts have been made to have them exhibited in Melbourne but Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, some of and Environment) - Mr Skeggs referred to Banyule which I do not know - and I do not wish to criticise Homestead and mentioned the difficulties over time the museum or the gallery because they could have in finding a community use that assists in the good reason - they are unable to exhibit them in preservation of the homestead. I note he has Melbourne. suggested if such a use could be found the Heidelberg City Council would consider No doubt space could be found for them. I have surrendering its lease to facilitate that. I thank him made inquiries in Geelong and space is available at for that information and I will examine it to see what several venues, including the Geelong Art Gallery options are possible. and the National Wool Centre, where the treasures could be exhibited. It is a tragedy that such a Mr Connard raised a question for the Minister for wonderful exhibition that could pay for itself - and Water Resources regarding the way in which a I understand the crowds attending the Sydney constituent in Hampton has been billed for water exhibition are better than all expectations - cannot and the inequity of such bills. I will raise the matter come to Melbourne. with the Minister for Water Resources and seek a response. The government needs to guarantee the exhibition, which would cost apprOximately $200 000. If the Hon. M. A. LYSTER (Minister for Health) - government could give a guarantee for that sum, I Mr Smith again raised the land sale to Pakenham am sure it would more than cover that amount - council. I am not in a position to give an answer to the success of the exhibition in other States shows Mr Smith tonight. I can assure him, his constituents that. The unfortunate part is that it now would have and the people of the Shire of Pakenham that I have to come back to Melbourne from Perth, and that not ignored it. Since Mr Smith raised the matter I would cost another $SO 000. Nevertheless, on behalf have reviewed the whole of the correspondence and of the people of Victoria the government should file on the matter. I am currently seeking to draw the investigate every possibility of bringing this various issues together. I hope to be meeting with marvellous exhibition not necessarily to Melbourne the Premier and some other concerned individuals but at least to Victoria so that Victorians can have in the near future to finalise the matter. I can assure the opportunity to view the exhibition, the first of its Mr Smith that when that happens he will be among kind in the world. the first to learn of it. Mr Van Buren has also been making representations on behalf of the same Responses constituents because obviously it is a matter, as we have agreed, that has gone on for too long and must Hon. C. J. HOGG (Minister for Ethnic, Municipal be settled in the near future. and Community Affairs) - I thank Mr Mackenzie for referring to the Secret Treasures of Russia Motion agreed to. exhibition. I share his concern that Victorians will not have an opportunity to see these unique works House adjourned 11.48 p.m. of art. It may be that a venue has been unavailable. As he said, he is not being critical about that. However, tomorrow I will convey the substance of QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Wednesday, 29 April 1992 COUNCIL 627

Wednesday, 29 April 1992 Hon. R. M. HALLAM (Western) - The question I direct to the Minister for Consumer Affairs goes to the same issue. Yesterday in answer to a question from Mr Mackenzie the Minister vigorously asserted that the government's announced plans for the The ACflNG PRESIDENT (Hon. K. I. M. Wright) corporate restructure of Victoria's major public took the chair at 10.32 a.m. and read the prayer. trading enterprises did not constitute privatisation.

I ask ~e Minister simply: is it not a fact that the plan QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE has as Its very cornerstone the injection of external equity equivalent to 40 per cent? If that is the case, how can he pOSSibly deny that the plan constitutes a PRIVATISATION OF GOVERNMENT part-privatisation of those enterprises? UTILITIES Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for Consumer Affairs) - The answer to the question is Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - I refer the no, it does not constitute part-privatisation. There is Minister assisting the Minister for Manufacturing and Industry Development with responsibility for no 40 per cent equity. Corporatisation to the government's privatisation The issues relating to commercialisation and program for the Gas and Fuel Corporation and the Premier's public support for such a program, and I co~oratisation have nothing to do with equity so far as elther the blue book put out by me is concerned ask: is it a fact that the proposal to publicly issue or the discussions that I have been holding with the preference shares in the Gas and Fuel Corporation, government business enterprises, with business or in line with the Premier's policy commitment, was with other groups. The proposal is about principles not accepted in Cabinet? What is the government's of commercialisation. policy now on the privatisation of the Gas and Fuel Corpora tion? Hon. R. M. Hallam - There is no equity injection Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for involved? Consumer Affairs) - In respect of the Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - There is no corporatisation portfolio, firstly, let me say that it is quite clear that the only privatisation policy in this equity injection involved in any of the discussions had and that is why, Mr Hallam, it is not place is on the opposition side, not on our side of the that I have privatisation because, as even you would House. understand, privatisation involves the sale of equity. There have been no discussions relating to the Hon. R. I. Knowles - You're the only person sale-- who believes that; none of your colleagues do.

Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - We are Hon. Rosemary Varty - Investment of equity, not the sale of equity. prepared to concede that the opposition has two policies: one on privatisation and the other on a Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - An investment consumption tax. of private equity. I have not been involved in any As Minister assisting the Minister for Manufacturing proposal relating to that. and Industry Development it is my responsibility to Hon. Rosemary Varty - What about institutional develop the reform issues relating to the commercialisation of government business equity? enterprises. It is not my responsibility to enter into negotiations with the government business Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - There is no proposal, full stop, of which I am aware, relating to enterprises on the question of equity or anything equity in any of the GBEs. else of that nature. That is a matter for the responsible Minister which, in this place, is David White. The question asked of me should more Hon. R. M. Hallam - Where have you been for properly have been directed to him. the past six months? QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

628 COUNCIL Wednesday, 29 April 1992

Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - Listen to what I deceive the House. That is not what the question said! No proposal relating to equity in the GBEs has was about. been accepted by this government - you may have accepted it, but we have not. We have tried to Honourable members interjecting. develop principles. Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - The question Hon. R. M. Hallarn - What about Loy Yang B? was about corporatisation and commercialisation and proposals relating to the reform of government Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - You didn't ask business enterprises such as the Gas and Fuel me about Loy Yang B! Corporation, the State Electricity Commission and Melbourne Water, which have been the subject of Honourable members interjecting. discussions and for which I have general responsibility for developing policy on Hon. R. I. Knowles - Is that part of the SEC, or corporatisation and commercialisation. not? That policy does not contain any component relating Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - It was quite clear to private equity, whether it be 40 per cent or some in the honourable member's question -- other amount - and that is the first factor that distinguishes the policy of the government on this The ACTING PRESIDENT - Order! I suggest issue from that of the opposition. The second the Minister answer the question directly. It should distinguishing factor is that we on this side of the be noted that the first rule for answering questions is House recognise that those authorities are public that questions cannot be debated. bodies, that they must be accountable to government and that adequate controls must be in place to Hon. B. T. Pullen - What about the interjections? ensure they meet the needs of the people and the government. Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - Mr Acting President, I should like the opportunity to answer Hon. R. M. Hallam - What about the equity the question if the opposition is prepared to give me injection? Why don't you answer the question? that opportunity. Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - We are not about Honourable members interjecting. giving carte blanche to the authorities to do what ever they want, which is the policy of the opposition The ACTING PRESIDENT - Order! I ask as outlined by Alan Stockdale, the honourable honourable members not to interject and to give the member for Brighton in the other place. The Minister the opportunity to reply to the question. opposition wants to give up all responsibility for managing those businesses, letting them go off and Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - The question do what they want at the same time as selling off the was clearly about discussions on corporatisation and bits that suit it. That is the opposition's policy. The commercialisation. It was not about issues government's policy is about running those surrounding the sale of Loy Yang B. Mr Hallam businesses commercially. knows that is the case; he knows that Loy Yang B is not my responsibility, so I would not comment on it Honourable members interjecting. in any case. The ACTING PRESIDENT - Order! Although I The 40 per cent equity in Loy Yang B is on the record do not want to be unfair to the Minister - there and understood by everybody. That is not what Mr have been a considerable number of interjections - Hallam asked me about; and if he is now claiming the answer to the question has taken 7 minutes. At that that is what he is asking me about, he is that rate question time will take a long while. I deceiving the House. realise that much of the Minister's time was taken up with answering the question, but too much of it was Honourable members interjecting. spent debating the question.

Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - For Mr Hallam to claim that that is what he is asking me about is to QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Wednesday, 29 April 1992 COUNCIL 629

FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY a view about the food sector so that further opportwtities are realised by the Federal Hon. B. E. DAVIDSON (Chelsea) - Will the government giving a clear, unambiguous message to Minister for Manufacturing and Industry the food manufacturing sector that investments in Development inform the House of the progress that that sector will be supported. has been made to strengthen the growth of investment in Victoria's food processing industry? We look forward to a further impetus from the Federal government beyond the initiatives that have Hon. D. R. WHITE (Minister for Manufacturing been outlined today to further expand the food and Industry Development) - I am pleased to tell sector. the House about the continuing success of the cooperative project we have undertaken with the FUNDING OF TRADE UNION Committee for Melbourne. OFFICIALS

The food processing sector is of vital concern to the Hon. R. I. KNOWLES (Ballarat) - The Minister Victorian economy, and it is important that the for Health will be aware of the opposition and industry be world competitive, whether on the farm, community concern about the extent of public in the plant, on the road or at the ports. The sector money used to fund trade union officials in employs 14 per cent of the State's manufacturing government agencies and public utilities. Does the work force, produces 18 per cent of its output and is Minister believe the Monash Medical Centre has responsible for 55 per cent of manufacturing exports. used scarce Health Department Victoria funds wisely by employing Mr Clancy of the Trades Hall It is pleasing that major new investments have Council and Miss Gail Gills, President of the recently been made in the food processing sector in Hospital Employees Federation, at a cost exceeding this State. Last year Kraft Foods Ltd announced a $100 000 per annum? $76 million cheese processing plant at Strathmerton, a $25 million refurbishing of its Port Melbourne Hon. M. A. LYSTER (Minister for Health) - The plant and a $6 million research and development budget that is allocated to the Monash Medical facility to service Australia and the South-East Asian Centre is the largest budget of any hospital in the region. State. It is without doubt one of the initiatives of which the government is most proud: the creation of Bonlac Foods Ltd will proceed with $16 million a major tertiary hospital in the eastern suburban area worth of technology upgrades of cheese plants at of Melbourne, an area that had no access to services Cororooke, Camperdown and Stanhope. Meadow of that kind. Lea Foods is undertaking a $25 million consolidation of its world-class vegetable oil refining plant at The staff, the board and everyone involved with the Footscray. At Allansford, Warmambool Milk Monash Medical Centre are prOViding an excellent Products is upgrading the former Kraft service to the community. I pay tribute to the way Warrnambool Co-operative to the tune of $25 the board and senior staff have created a service that million. is greatly valued by the community.

Honourable members will be aware that the Food I assume that the board of management of the Industry Growth and Investment Group, under the Monash Medical Centre considered the matter leadership of Terry Ward, the Managing Director of carefully before making this allocation of funds from H. J. Heinz Co. Australia Ltd, is working to identify its budget. They would have taken that action to further ways of encouraging growth. Of course ensure that they got value for money. I reiterate my although they are not yet completed Heinz, support for the centre. Unifoods Pty Ltd and Nestle Australia Ltd have proposals under consideration. The State PRIVATISATION OF GOVERNMENT government is of the view, as are other States, that UTILITIES the Federal government's Australian Science and Technology Council, which published a report on Hon. W. R. BAXTER (North Eastern) - I direct the food processing sector last year, should form the my question to the Leader of the Govenunent. I basis of a food marketing strategy at Federal intended to direct it to the Minister who has government level. We will be putting pressure on responsibility for assisting on corporatisation but the Federal government via Federal Cabinet to reach after that Minister's answer to Mr Hallam's QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

630 COUNCIL Wednesday, 29 April 1992 question, which suggested that these sorts of Hon. R. M. Hallam - So the 40 per cent is a questions should be directed to the Leader, I shall happy coincidence? take that course. Hon. D. R. WHITE - No. I shall use the Hon. Haddon Storey interjected. Loy Yang analogy: one of the preconditions for Loy Yang to operate outside Loan Council requirements Hon. W. R. BAXTER - Yes, Mr Storey, despite is private equity. In the case of Loy Yang B the his wanting only three weeks ago to answer such government submitted to the Federal government, questions. and will continue to do so, that the new power station has 40 per cent private equity and therefore I refer the Leader of the Government to the consideration should be given to Loy Yang B being government's proposals to partially privatise able to operate outside the Loan Council. Victoria's major private enterprises, and I ask: is he able to provide any reasons why Victorians, already Hon. R. M. Hallam - My point precisely. sceptical about the government's bona fides, should not regard the scheme as a clever mechanism to Hon. D. R. WHITE - Leaving the Loy Yang avoid Australian Loan Council scrutiny for future example to one side, Mr Baxter wants to know what borrowings by raising private equity above the 40 would happen under the corporatisation or per cent benchmark? commercialisation of existing utilities where 100 per cent public equity was retained in the terms Hon. D. R. WHITE (Minister for Manufacturing Mr Theophanous outlined, and my response is that and Industry Development) - To make quite clear it is still possible for those utilities to fall outside the corporatisation proposal the government is Loan Council requirements and borrow developing, I indicate that the public utilities will independently of those requirements if they are seen still be under the requirements of the Loan Council. by the Loan Council to be operating in a Of course, when legislation is prepared and commercially competitive environment. introduced to this House after consultation with the community it will be possible for the opposition to Hon. R. M. Hallam - You know it won't happen examine it and consider the fact that the utilities will without the 40 per cent! have to satisfy certain principles set down by the Loan Council if they are to operate outside Loan Hon. D. R. WHITE - They do not necessarily Council requirements. Those principles are not have to have 40 per cent private equity; that is not a exclUSively built around whether a utility has necessary precondition. In any event, whether a 40 per cent or more private equity. utility falls within or outside Loan Council requirements is a matter the government must Hon. R. M. Hallam - They could be commercial submit to the Loan Council and it will determine as well? whether the body is deemed to be inside or outside its requirements. That process must be followed Hon. D. R. WHITE - Yes. A separate and with any Federal or State government utility. It is distinct set of criteria applies to a fully-owned not mandatory that there be 40 per cent private government entity so it can be treated by the Loan equity to be outside Loan Council requirements. Council as being outside its requirements if it is seen to be a commercial utility operating in a setting SALTWATCHPROGRAM where there is known and understood competition. In the case of one of our major utilities, such as a gas Hon. E. H. WALKER (Melbourne) - I preface or electricity utility, the Loan Council would have to my question, which is directed to the Minister for be satisfied that there was genuine competition and Conservation and Environment, by saying that over that the utility was operating in a genuinely 10 years this government has established an competitive environment at arm's length from the excellent record of tackling salt and salinity government in respect of day-ta-day operation. problems around Victoria.

It is not within the government's ambit to determine Honourable members interjecting. whether a utility or organisation within the State government will operate within or outside the Loan Hon. E. H. WALKER - If you say otherwise, Mr Council. Smith, you will be wrong! The reality is that this government has done a great deal. The State's QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Wednesday, 29 April 1992 COUNCIL 631

strategy titled Salt Action - Joint Action is an schools, so I am pleased the program will be important strategy -- launched in Brunswick.

Honourable members interjecting. For those who are not aware, Saltwatch consists of students, their parents and members of the The ACTING PRESIDENT - Order! It is not community monitoring the incidence of salinity. often we have the privilege of hearing a question Samples are measured by the electro-conductivity from Mr Walker. I request honourable members to (BC) method using portable instruments. Readings hear his question in silence. are given in EC units and the information is entered into a database at the Rural Water Commission Hon. E. H. WALKER - An important part of the which then updates maps of salinity levels strategy is the Saltwatch program for young people, throughout the State. especially schoolchildren, around the State. Will the Minister inform the House of any new or current This is a practical combination of an educational initiatives in the Saltwatch program as coordinated process that involves students, parents and the by his department? community and provides useful and accurate information to organisations such as my department Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation and the Department of Food and Agriculture. and Environment) - I thank Mr Walker for his question and acknowledge that many of the Honourable members interjecting. initiatives for tackling salinity, especially coordination with other States, started due to his Hon. B. T. PULLEN - Those who are cynical influence when he was the responsible Minister. about this ought to note that next week for the first time New South Wales, South Australia, The long-term effects of the educational side of the Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory program cannot be underestimated. Many country will be following the process. Officers of my people have been and will continue to be supportive department have assisted officers in those States in of this program. Schoolchildren, especially those at learning how to develop Saltwatch programs. schools that have become registered Saltwatch schools, are involved in a process that is both The system will be a grassroots approach based on educational and scientific, and to date some 200 schoolchildren and an educational approach for the schools have been involved in the program. community on the problems of salinity. Given that honourable members opposite represent country I am pleased to inform the House that on Friday I electorates, I should have thought they would be shall be launching the 1992 Saltwatch Week at the interested in this issue. They at least should realise Centre for Education and Research in that the cost to Victoria of the damage caused by Environmental Strategies at Brunswick East, and salinity is something like $50 million a year. They students from the Brunswick North West Primary should know that education and involvement in the School will demonstrate the methodology used in community is a key element in getting support for the Saltwatch program. the program. It shows their inability to be positive about any issues when on this issue alone they find Hon. M. A Birrell - Ever think of going to the themselves unable to do anything but jeer about a country to launch it? matter that is widely supported throughout Victoria, particularly by country people. Members of the Hon. B. T. PULLEN - The interjection is opposition ought to be congratulating the people interesting. Some 500 schools will be participating in involved in the program, as I am, rather than taking the program this year, a dramatic increase from 200. a negative attitude. Part of that increase is because more urban and provincial schools are becoming involved, and that PRIVATISATION OF GOVERNMENT is a good thing. Extending the understanding of the UTILITIES problems of salinity from country areas to urban areas is a healthy development because the Hon. B. A. E. SKEGGS (Templestowe) - I direct commitment to solving the problem of salinity the attention of the Minister for Consumer Affairs, in demands the attention of the whole community. respect of his corporatisation portfolio, to an article Despite the cynicism of Mr Birrell, I welcome the in the Herald-Sun containing a warning by four involvement of more schools including urban public sector unions that a State government plan QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

632 COUNCIL Wednesday, 29 April 1992 for three major public authorities to act as private All honourable members will be aware that breast sector corporations will make the ALP rout at the cancer is the most common cancer affecting next election a certainty. In light of that criticism, Australian women and although it cannot be will the government abandon its privatisation or prevented early detection has the potential to reduce so-called corporatisation policies? mortality and morbidity from the disease.

Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for The major issue about which the government is Consumer Affairs) - I have seen the article referred concerned is the appropriate age group for which it to by Mr Skeggs. On this occasion, as it has on many can draw most benefit from the targeting of a occasions, the Herald-Sun either does not understand screening program. Screening the right population the basis of what is being discussed or is being for breast cancer ensures early detection. However, deliberately mischievous and deceptive. I have screening the wrong population confers no benefit continually said there is no proposal to privatise. and introduces important downside factors, such as What is being discussed is a proposal to reform generation of anxiety in women with "suspicious" government business enterprises in order to give X-rays requiring recall and other intrusive them a more commercial orientation. The investiga tions. government will ensure that the safeguards necessary for proper accountability of those Last week I put that view to the Federal Minister for government business enterprises will be put in place. Health, Housing and Community Services. It has been supported by Dr Nigel Gray, the Chairman of The government is also in the process of consulting the Victorian Breast Cancer Screening Program and the trade union movement and other interested Director of the Anti-Cancer Council of Victoria, who community groups to ensure that any changes to agreed that the Victorian government position was reform government business enterprises will, firstly, correct. He said overseas evidence supported the not be in the area of privatisation and, secondly, will assertion that only women in the 50 to 69 year-old establish a set of commercial principles that will age bracket benefit from screening. Indeed, he went allow government business enterprises to reach on to say that: maximum efficiency and effectiveness while at the same time retaining the accountability structures the ... a large body of evidence fails to show any benefit for government has developed over a long period. The women aged. 40 to 49. government will expand on those so it can ensure that in the future the organisations are nm The government believes the inclusion of commercially and are accountable to the people and symptomless women in the 40 to 49 year age group the government. into the mass mammographic screening program is opposed by both the Australian Cancer Society and BREAST SCREENING PROGRAM the board of management of the Victorian Breast Cancer Screening Program and is an inappropriate Hon. LICIA KOKOCINSKI (Melbourne West) - use of limited resources. It agrees that only women I am sure all honourable members are aware of the in the 50 to 69 year-old age bracket benefit from discussion publicly and in the media about the screening and it will continue to point out that Victorian government's implementation of a breast diversion of resources from women in the 50 to screening program. Will the Minister for Health 69-year age group to those aged 40 to 49 years explain Victoria's pOSition? would produce very little, if any, benefit. The government will therefore continue its stance with Hon. M. A. LYSTER (Minister for Health) - the Federal government that the major group to be Given Ms Kokocinski's consistent activity and targeted in the mass mammographic screening interest in this area, I understand that she may be program should be the group aged 50 to 69 years. concerned to know the result of the important discussions last week between the Federal Minister The government is committed to the provision of a and me on this issue. It is appropriate that I place on breast cancer screening program throughout the record the attitude of the Victorian government Victoria. It is our priority that it be a quality and the reasons for the position it is taking. I mammography service to best meet the needs of concede that some differences exist with the Federal Victorian women in the appropriate and government on this issue. governinent-recommended target age group. QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

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INCREASES IN BUSINESS FEES The State Ministers sought the agreement of the Federal Minister to a jOint examination by him and Hon. G. H. COX (Nunawading) - Does the the State Ministers together with, where Minister for Consumer Affairs intend to increase appropriate, the heads of government, about the fees under the Weights and Measures Act 1958 and way all available funds - that is, all funds the Motor Car Traders Act 1986 by treble the rate of dedicated to health services throughout the inflation, the amount allowable without a regulatory country - could best be used. impact statement? If that is a fact, will he inform the businesses affected and explain these charges, taking The issue of private health insurance was raised but into consideration that added costs mean loss of it was not a major agenda item. However, at the end jobs? of the day, there was agreement with the Federal Minister that, together with the heads of Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for government, the renegotiation of the Medicare Consumer Affairs) - Fees are set from time to time agreement and, by implication - and, indeed, it by my department. The normal procedure is for a may have been specifically mentioned in the regulatory impact statement to be prepared to communique of the day - a thoughtful examination ensure that the appropriate process has occurred. of all available health funds would be part of the joint agenda in the coming months. Hon. D. M. Evans - Is it happening on this occasion? SMALL CLAIMS TRIBUNAL

Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - I am unable to Hon. JEAN McLEAN (Boronia) - Will the say whether it will be taking place on this occasion. Minister for Consumer Affairs outline to the House However, I shall ascertain from the department how changes to the scope of the Small Claims whether a proposal of that sort is currently in place Tribunal will assist small business and other groups and I will let Mr Cox know. I should say it is not in the community? normally done except in exceptional circumstances. Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for I should also add that the weights and measures Consumer Affairs) - The Small Claims Tribunal fees, along with a range of other fees charged by the was established in the 19705 to enable consumers to government, come under the policy of trying to, resolve small contractual disputes about the supply firstly, keep those fees as low as possible, and, of goods and services in a cheap, informal and secondly, applying the fees in the most equitable speedy manner without the need for lawyers being way possible given the parameters. present, and now provides a Significant service to the community. In the past financial year almost PRIVATE HEALTH INSURANCE 4000 consumers used the tribunal to settle disputes.

Hon. D. M. EV ANS (North Eastern) - At the It has become clear, however, that certain categories recent health Ministers conference why did the of groups and individuals in society are Minister for Health not support efforts to encourage disadvantaged by their inability to use the tribunal. participation in private health insurance to reduce Those groups are small businesses, farmers and hospital waiting lists? various community-type organisations.

Hon. M. A. LYSTER (Minister for Health) - The Today most community organisations are honourable member did not attend the health incorporated and, if they purchase unsatisfactory Ministers conference and is, therefore, not aware of goods or services from traders or businesses, are the nature of the discussions. The question of private unable to use the Small Claims Tribunal but must health insurance was incidental to the major issue at pursue any claims through normal legal processes. the conference, which was the first item on the The same situation applies to farmers who have agenda, to which I referred yesterday in answer to a incorporated their businesses and therefore suffer question, namely, the renegotiation of the Medicare the same difficulties. Many people are also involved agreement. As a result, there was unanimous in partnerships and are unable to use the tribunal. agreement among the States that there has to be a total restructure of the Medicare agreement. The government interlds to address the problems faced by small businesses, farmers and the various community groups I mentioned by enabling them to CORRECT USE OF TITLES

634 COUNCIL Wednesday, 29 April1992 use the Small Claims Tribunal if they purchase In addition to written translations, officers provide goods or services from manufacturers or other services in checking, editing, proofreading and word businesses and find that those goods or services are processing of translations, as well as recording video not up to scratch. voice-overs and audio cassettes.

This is an important microeconomic reform because The translation service is at the forefront of its field. many resources of small businesses and farms are The excellent multilingual word-processing often taken up by costly litigation over small equipment enables a faster, more precise service, accounts, or, just as often, small businesses do not and laser printing provides desk-top publishing proceed with actions because of the high costs presentation. involved. The changes in the scope of the tribunal will allow such people to settle disputes without the The health, education and welfare areas have need to refer them to lawyers. traditionally been the main users of the service, with heavy demands on the major 10 community LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMISSION languages. The health sector comprises CHAIRMAN apprOximately 25 per cent of the total demand for the translation service. Consequently, a Directory of Hon. G. R. CRAIGE (Central Highlands) - I Health-Related Translations, completed by the office refer the Minister for Ethnic, Municipal and over the past three years, has recently been compiled Community Affairs to the secondment of the and printed. Chairman of the Local Government Commission, Mr Russell Badham, to the Major Initiatives The directory lists the translations according to Secretariat, Treasury and I ask: what are the terms general subject title, with a brief description of the and conditions of this secondment? content, the languages into which it has been translated and the requesting organisation from Hon. C. J. HOGG (Minister for Ethnic, Municipal which the translation is available. All this and Community Affairs) - The secondment was information is provided in an easy to read tabulated made under section 23(E)(ii) of the Public Service form. Act which deals with secondments of statutory appointees to Public Service positions. It is a The directory is being widely distributed, free of part-time secondment that has been renewed - I am charge, through Health Department Victoria, the about to sign a letter now - for a period to mid-June Ethnic Health Unit and the Victorian Hospitals or the end of June. Association Ltd. It is anticipated that the directory will prove to be a valuable and readily accessible Hon. B. A. Chamberlain - Who is paying the resource that will facilitate the work of health salary? professionals. The resource is long overdue and will be very welcome in the health area. Hon. C. J. HOGG - The Ministry. CORRECT USE OF TITLES TRANSLATION SERVICE OF OFFICE OF ETHNIC AFFAIRS The ACTING PRESIDENT - Order! With reference to questions without notice and debate in Hon. G. A. SGRO (Melbourne North) - Will the general, I have noticed a growing tendency for Minister for Ethnic, Municipal and Community honourable members to use the Christian names of Affairs advise the developments that have occurred honourable members instead of their correct titles. I within her Ministry to enhance access by major users make the point that that is not appropriate in this to the translation service of the Office of Ethnic place. Affairs? SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT COMMIITEE Hon. C. J. HOGG (Minister for Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs) - The Office of Ethnic Mental disturbance and community safety Affairs translation service provides translations in 37 languages to a range of public and private agencies Hon. G. P. CONNARD (Higinbotbam) presented and institutions. third report of Social Development Committee on inquiry into mental disturbance and community PAPER

Wednesday, 29 April 1992 COUNCIL 635 safety, together with appendices, extracts from person with a personality disorder alone; and that proceedings and minority report. this Act not be used for the involuntary detention of a person with a personality disorder alone who Hon. G. P. CONNARD (Higinbotham) (By is deemed to be a threat to the safety of the leave) -I wish to comment on this very important community. report because it refers to a draft Bill, the Finally, the recommendations were agreed to by the Community Protection (Violent Offenders) Bill, committee by a majority of 11 to 1. Mr Leighton, a which is being circulated by the Attorney-General. registered psychiatric nurse, had a different view. The House will be well aware of the Community I emphasise to the House and to the community in Protection Act 1990, which is commonly referred to general that this report is very damning of the as the Garry David rule. That was sunsetted, but its Attorney-General's draft Bill and that a operation was extended in the latter part of 1991. Parliamentary committee has recommended that it not proceed. Since that time the Attorney-General has produced a draft Bill called the Community Protection (Violent Laid on table. Offenders) Bill. In 1990 the Social Development Committee produced a report titled Strategies to Deal Ordered to be printed. with Persons with Severe Personality Disorder who Pose a Threat to Public Safety, which was tabled in this Ordered that report be considered next day on House. motion of Hon. HADDON STOREY (East Yarra). The Social Development Committee regretted the PAPER introduction of the Community Protection Act 1990, which ignored all the recommendations in its report. Laid on table by Clerk: Consequently, the committee felt duty bound to examine the draft Bill. Exhibition Trust - Report and financial statements for the year 1991. I shall read two paragraphs from the chairperson's preface to the report, which has the agreement of 11 Ordered that paper tabled by Clerk be considered out of the 12 members of the committee. Margaret next day on motion of Hon. HADDON STOREY Ray, the chairperson, writes with the approval of the (East Yarra). committee: BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS Following a thorough consideration of the draft Bill, the committee recommends that this Bill not proceed. The Hon. R. I. KNOWLES (Ballarat) - I move: committee concludes that the provisions of the Bill are unnecessary, misconceived, potentially That this House deplores the decline of the bush counterproductive, and likely to erode human rights. nursing hospital system as a direct result of government policies over the past 10 years, and calls on It is a very damning statement. The committee made the government to immediately address this decline four recommendations, which I shall read so that by- people are aware of them: (a) acknowledging the role of bush nursing hospitals in The committee recommends: providing essential health services; and 1. That the proposed draft Community Protection (d) undertaking to ensure their ongoing viability (Violent Offenders) Bill not proceed. by- 2. That at the expiry of its present sunset clause, the (i) urging the Federal government to give financial Community Protection Act 1990 be not extended. incentives to persons without private health insurance; and 3. That no legislation for the preventive detention of violent offenders proceed, given the current (ii) where appropriate, entering into contracts with WU"eliability of predicting dangerousness. bush nursing hospitals to provide public beds in their facilities. 4. That the involuntary admission criteria of the Mental Health Act 1986 not be amended to include a BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

636 COUNCIL Wednesday, 29 Apri11992

This is a critical issue throughout much of country will in the world many families are unable to Victoria. The bush nursing movement is largely a maintain private health insurance. They have been Victorian phenomenon. It began in 1910 in response denied access to the very services they have worked to what was seen as a lack of adequate public health hard to establish. services in country Victoria, or certainly in areas outside Melbourne. It has developed to the point There are now only 32 bush nursing hospitals in where it plays a significant role in the provision of Victoria. In recent years a number of the hospitals health services for many communities, particularly have closed because they could no longer survive. small communities throughout country Victoria. Since 1983 the Korong, Murrayville, Tongala, Toora, and Violet Town bush nursing hospitals have closed. These agencies are private, non-profit and There has been a substantial change in a number of non-sectarian organisations and over the years they others where acute beds have been closed. The have grown and developed in response to critical nature of their services means many beds are needs within their communities. It is important that occupied by people who would be deemed to be we recognise that part of the reason they are in crisis nursing home-type patients. An additional centre at is simply because they are private organisations. Lancefield has been closed, but there are moves to Their services were developed by local communities try to reopen it. My colleague, Mr Craige, will speak working hard and raising funds. In other in detail on the Lancefield exercise. communities the same effort was undertaken but they were called community hospitals or public The critical issue is that almost all of the centres have hospitals, which has placed them in different operating deficits on their annual funding positions compared with bush nursing hospitals. arrangements. They are operating at losses and have been able to survive only because they have been The services have had to adjust to significant change using up their reserves built up over many years. I over the years, as have all health providers, but the understand many hospitals have had to severely most dramatic change that has occurred over the reduce maintenance on their buildings. Honourable past 10 years has been the election of Labor members will be well aware that is only a short-term governments at State and national levels, solution. The reduction of maintenance can often be particularly at the national level. As a result of the a foolish decision on the part of any organisation Federal government's pursuit of the Medicare because what might be minor maintenance today arrangements as the key mechanism for funding will become a major redevelopment in a couple of health care in this country and because bush nursing years. These centres have been forced to reduce their hospitals are deemed to be private hospitals they expenditure on maintenance in order to survive. have found themselves in a difficult situation. These hospitals have provided acute bed services, nursing The Victorian Bush Nursing Association has advised home services in more recent times, hostel services me that 8 to 10 centres are in severe financial trouble and domiciliary and district nursing services. and that many of them have contemplated closure Although there is commonality between some of the because of insufficient funds. There has been no services they provide each has developed to meet its reduction in the demand for services provided by own needs - the needs of its own community. these hospitals. Later in the debate my colleagues will provide details of specific centres in their The Federal government is primarily responsible for electorates that are facing this trauma. the difficulties faced by bush nursing hospitals. Today I will highlight the major cause of that I shall refer briefly to one other compounding difficulty - to use bush nursing hospitals one must problem for the centres: they provide services for have private health insurance. Although nursing home-type patients. That problem has been communities have worked hard and raised the compounded by the fact there has been a reduction funds to build the services, local residents, who in people taking out private health insurance, but often do not have transport to travel distances to even those who have insurance receive a reduced major health facilities, must have private health rebate from their health funds after the 35-day insurance to gain access to those services. period. For people holding private health insurance this means the financial difficulties of the centre are The House is well aware of the dramatic decline in increased. Many centres are keen to convert some of private health insurance over the past 10 years. That their acute beds to nursing home-type beds. has been exacerbated in much of country Victoria However, that issue is controlled by the Federal because of the rural depression. Even with the best government. BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

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The House will recall that three weeks ago it If the Commonwealth is to stick with funding of the debated a motion on the inadequacies of the beds Victoria requires more flexibility than it has CAM/SAM funding arrangements for which the because Victoria is at a severe disadvantage Commonwealth is responsible. There is a major compared with other States when one examines the difficulty in having many of the beds converted. In provision of nursing home beds. In recent years calculating the number of beds in any area the there has been the development of hostel-type Commonwealth government is insisting on using 40 accommodation. Many of the centres have taken up beds per 1000 patients over the age of 70 years. In that option as one way of trying to develop a many of the areas there are a number above that multi-service provision within their districts. They figure, at least on a regional basis. Because the wish to provide some low level acute beds, some Commonwealth will not allow new nursing home nursing beds, some hostel beds and some beds to be established in those regions, there must dOmiciliary services. It is a sensible development to be a relocation of an existing nursing home bed in a provide for the needs of those communities. In region to a bush nursing hospital. doing so, one cannot underestimate the impact that has on the local economies of communities. In many To highlight the number of patients, I shall quote such communities the health provider services are some random statistics provided by the Victorian among the major employers and the economic Bush Nursing Association. I shall mention specific activity they generate is significant. hospitals. Total in-patient bed days for the Ballan Bush Nursing Hospital for the year to 30 June 1991 That is a summation of the difficulties confronted by were 4006, of which 3098 were nursing home-type bush nursing hospitals in this State. It has become patient days. Total in-patient bed days for the progressively worse over the past decade, Chiltern Bush Nursing Hospital were 3768, of which particularly with a Federal Labor government. The 2162 were nursing home-type patients. The State government has a responsibility in this area. Trentham Bush Nursing Hospital, which is an area I know well, had 5231 in-patient bed days of which It is important to examine the response of the State 4840 were nursing home-type patients. government. Following much agitation by the Victorian Bush Nursing Association, local members The Minister will be aware of the difficulty in trying of Parliament and others, the government referred to transfer nursing home beds to places like the matter to the Economic and Budget Review Trentham when we are in the process at present of Committee, which produced a report in April 1987 negotiating the transfer of some beds to Creswick following a review of bush nursing services. It was a and Beaufort hospitals. I am well aware of the comprehensive report; it provided a detailed difficulties involved with that, but bush nursing examination and highlighted the importance of the hospitals are unable to obtain the beds for that bush nursing services to our general health care transfer to take place. It is a matter the opposition services throughout Victoria. has asked the government to pursue with the Federal government. There should be more The government's response to that report has been flexibility in the policy embraced by the Federal less than adequate. One of the recommendations government of 40 beds per 1000 patients over the was that the government should look at contracting age of 70 years for the calculation of the availability out public beds in bush nursing centres. The result of nursing home beds. of the recommendation has led to a contract arrangement of only two beds at the Sea Lake Bush Hon. M. A. Lyster - But also have consideration Nursing Hospital: of the 552 beds provided by the for payment of nursing home-type patients, bush nursing service two have been contracted out whatever they are. by the government for public patients. Contracting out is a sensible arrangement to address the problem Hon. R. I. KNOWLES - The Minister is quite for many of the communities whose populations right. That is another way of tackling the same cannot afford to take out private health insurance. problem; they fund the patient rather than the bed. They would be able to receive treatment as public That sort of flexibility must be introduced to address patients in their local hospitals, hospitals they have the problems, not only for bush nursing hospitals often worked hard to establish. but also a number of other hospitals and other services where it is the patient who should be If it is not possible to apply the arrangement across funded rather than the bed. the board, there will still need to be some establishment of it. The government has said it will BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

638 COUNCIL Wednesday, 29 April 1992 embrace that concept on a case-by-case basis. What the local communities, as has been done for more is the end result? One hospital is providing only two than 80 years. beds. The government could also take action by pursuing Mrs Tehan has been pursuing with the government Medicare renegotiation with its Commonwealth the concerns of the Upper Yarra Bush Nursing colleagues. Hospital in her province; concerns that have been raised in the House a number of times. On each Hon. M. A. Lyster - Yes, enthusiastically. occasion the present Minister for Health has indicated a willingness to examine ways in which Hon. R. I. KNOWLES - I am interested that the the hospital can be assisted. I understand the request Minister says "enthusiastically" because when it was for a contractual arrangement for the provision came to the crunch at the meeting of health of two obstetric beds or any other arrangement that Ministers, the Victorian Minister, Mrs Lyster, and would contractually enable the hospital to take and the Victorian government did not support their treat public patients. Labor colleagues from Western Australia to have the private health subsidy -- I understand there have been many discussions, but there has been no assistance and no change. That Hon. M. A. Lyster - It was there. hospital is under severe threat. Many hospitals find it difficult when someone without private health Hon. R. I. KNOWLES - I understand the insurance seeks services from them. Most of the Minister said she would like to support him but she hospitals provide the services and worry about how would never get it through Cabinet. to recoup the costs subsequently. It is hard for bush nursing hospitals in small communities to knock Hon. M. A. Lyster - She did not! back local patients who require care. The hospitals admitted the patients but subsequently discovered Hon. R. I. KNOWLES - The Minister should they did not have private health insurance and had have said that because then she would have been on to carry the cost. That has led to the closure of many the right track. Then we would have started to centres. Promises that alternatives would be put in address the real problems confronting health care in place have not been kept. Australia.

One example the association has brought to my Hon. M. A. Lyster - You don't know what the attention is the bush nursing hospital in the actual debate was. Murrayville area, which was closed in 1989 - or, perhaps "converted" would be a better word - Hon. G. R. Craige (to Hon. M. A. Lyster) - Tell from a hospital to a bush nursing centre. The then us, then. Minister for Health, Caroline Hogg, flew to the area and with much fanfare gave the people concrete Hon. R. I. KNOWLES - The reliance on assurances that because they were close to the South Medicare is destroying health services in this Australian border and because the Pinnaroo country. The ideological blind spot is stopping the Hospital in South Australia was being continued development of good health care in under-utilised, they would be able to receive Australia and obstructing the provision of health hospitalisation there. care for all who need it. If the government embraced the policy that we put prior to the last election, of The association tells me that is not operating encouraging people and providing incentives for smoothly; people previously treated at the them to maintain and to take out private health Murrayville BusJ:l Nursing Hospital are being insurance - which has been embraced by our refused admittance at the Pinnaroo Hospital. Federal colleagues in the Fightback package, where Despite the assurance of the government, that those who can afford it will be encouraged to take service is being withdrawn. out private health insurance - concrete and real health care could be provided to the Victorian Bush The coalition is committed to ensuring the survival Nursing Association to ensure the survival of bush of the Victorian Bush Nursing Association. Our nursing hospitals. health policy, when implemented, will ensure that services are maintained and made available to serve The opposition calls on the government to adopt two specific strategies: firstly, to enter into contractual BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

Wednesday, 29 April 1992 COUNCIL 639 arrangements with the bush nursing hospitals so omission by the government. Its inactivity is placing that some public patients can be treated in those the hospitals under the same threat that the Elmore hospitals; secondly, to pursue with some vigour its Hospital originally faced because of the Federal colleagues to effect policy change by government's deliberate decision. converting to a fonnula of funding based on the number of patients rather than beds, or if a beds We want from the government the same reaction to basis is to be maintained, providing increased the events that happened at Elmore. It must treat flexibility so that many of what are currently these hospitals as health providers for their deemed to be acute beds that in fact are used to treat communities. I say to the government: do not hide nursing home-type patients can be deSignated as behind the fact the hospitals are deemed private and nursing home beds. therefore are the responsibility of the Commonwealth because the Commonwealth will Hon. B. A. Chamberlain - A more flexible say, "You have to take the matter up with the State arrangement. government".

Hon. R. I. KNOWLES - As Mr Chamberlain The hospitals are being caught; their communities says, to adopt a more flexible arrangement. At the are being denied the services for which they have same time it could take seriously and put in place worked hard to provide. incentives to encourage people to take out private health insurance or, at the very least, to provide Hon. M. A. Lyster - Does this mean you have a some incentive to enable people to maintain health policy of funding nursing hospitals? insurance. Hon. R. I. KNOWLES - The government must Hon. R. M. Hallam - Even to address the seek to persuade the Federal government to change penalty would be a start. its policy. The Victorian government claims to have the same ideological base as the Federal Hon. R. I. KNOWLES - Or, as Mr Hallam says, government; it claims to have a close, special even to address the penalty. A number of changes relationship. The Victorian government and its key can and must occur; if not, it will be not only the Ministers went out of their way to bring down the bush nursing hospitals system that will collapse but last Leader of the Federal Labor Party and to install also many other health providers including small their nominee in the Lodge. It is about time the hospitals in the private sector, and we will all be the government extracted its price for that support and poorer for it. used it in the interests of small communities to enable them to keep the health services they have The issue is critical. Time is rapidly running out for fought so hard to develop. Unless urgent action is the Victorian Bush Nursing Association and for the taken small communities risk losing their health system it has developed, which has served this State services in the very near future. well. Another eight to ten hospitals in severe financial straits will not last much longer. I commend the motion to the House.

We need action, not words. For more than a decade Hon. R. A. BEST (North Western) - I support we have had words, promises of assistance, and the motion moved by Mr Knowles, which highlights promises of understanding. Now we need concrete not only the problems facing bush nursing hospitals action, such as that the government took in changing in rural Victoria but also the role the hospitals play its mind to help other small hospitals in Victoria in the lives of rural Victorians. Bush nursing because many of the bush nursing hospitals are in hospitals employ Significant numbers of rural no different circumstances to the Elmore Hospital Victorians; and as Mr Knowles has said they provide which the government had intended to close. In that services that are vital to the health and well-being of case the local communities, with strong support people who live in remote parts of the State. The from their local members, took up the fight, and the motion demonstrates the coalition's commitment to government changed its mind. and recognition of the role that bush nursing hospitals play while also illustrating the precarious That episode was identical to what is happening to financial situation the hospitals find themselves in. It bush nursing hospitals throughout country Victoria highlights the fact that both State and Federal Labor because they too are fighting for their survival. Their governments have failed to recognise the role the demise is not an act of commission but an act of BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

640 COUNCIL Wednesday, 29 April 1992 bush nursing hospitals play in supplying health when rural economies are having the recession they services to people who live in isolated areas. had to have!

The government boasts about the social justice I support the comments made by Mr Knowles, who strategies it has instituted in so many parts of said that it was time the Minister and her metropolitan Melbourne; but when it comes to government extracted their price for supporting the health services for rural Victoria social justice leadership ambitions of the current Prime Minister strategies seem to go out the window, as a result of and did something to ease the desperate plight of which rural Victorians are treated as second-class rural Victorians. citizens. Bush nursing hospitals are unique to Victoria. They were built by community funds in My electorate is unique. North Western Province response to the need to enhance the welfare of small takes in most of the Mallee, which is sparse and communities which, because of their isolation, marginal farming country. When I entered lacked access to basic health services. Parliament in 1988 my province contained 10 bush nursing hospitals. Now there are only eight, because Over the past 10 years the Federal government has two - the Murrayville Bush Nursing Hospital and categorised bush nursing hospitals as private Korong Bush Nursing Hospital at Wedderburn­ hospitals operating for profit. By doing so it has have been forced to close. prevented many people who cannot afford private health insurance from obtaining treatment from The eight remaining bush nursing hospitals - their local community hospitals - the same people Beulah, Nyah, Birchip, Pyramid Hill, Charlton, who, in many cases, have supported the attempts by Rainbow, Hopetoun and Sea Lake - all face hospital committees of management to raise funds financial difficulties and uncertain futures. for the ongoing benefit of the hospitals and their communities. It is unfair that a growing percentage If the hospitals were allowed to treat health card of people who live in small isolated country towns, holders and low-income earners many of the particularly those within my electorate, are being difficulties they face could be overcome. Certain denied access to treatment in their local hospitals criteria would have to be set down, in consultation because of Federal government policies. with the hospitals, because not every person who wanted that medical treatment would be able to Unfortunately growing numbers of families are receive it. Each of the bush nursing hospitals in my unable to afford private health insurance premiums, area has distinguishing characteristics and each which in some cases can cost up to $1200 a year. At a requires different mixes of beds to meet the needs of time of recession, when bank managers are their communities. Any formulas used to categorise scrutinising the incomes of farming families, families appropriate bed mixes must not be inflexible are being forced to forgo private health insurance. In because no one formula could alleviate all of the particular, elderly people in rural communities are problems facing bush nursing hospitals. having to face the difficult decision of either forgOing private health insurance or going without The Pyramid Hill Bush Nursing Hospital is being food, clothing and other essentials. encouraged to expand by facilitating the provision of hostel-type beds as a way of pulling itself out of its The Minister for Health may shake her head, but the huge debt. I am yet to be convinced that such a fact is that elderly people in isolated communities model will allow the hospital to remain viable. The are going without food and clothing for the sake of programs instituted by the Federal government to paying private health insurance premiums. The fund bush nursing hospitals are not based on Minister must realise this social justice issue must be appropriate formulas for bed mixes that allow each addressed if the problem is to be rectified. hospital to adequately solve its financial problems. The problems the Pyramid Hill hospital is The Minister and her government must be prepared experiencing are different from the problems to pressure the Federal government into allowing experienced at Rainbow, Beulah and Sea Lake bush public patients to be treated at bush nursing nursing hospitals. The Federal government has been hospitals. At present rural Victorians are being encouraging bush nursing hospitals to build hostels discriminated against; and it is time that the Minister to attract funding to enable them to alleviate some of for Health recognised the monumental problems the financial burdens so that they may remain viable. being faced by small rural communities. The Minister must address their concerns, particularly BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

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I shall address some of the individual problems Mr Knowles made the point many times that facing each of the bush nursing hospitals in my hospitals are unable to receive funding for treatment electorate. The problems at Charlton Bush Nursing of these patients. If it treats them it is a cost to its Hospital are different. At the end of last year it faced committee of management, but that is the strength a deficit of $10 000. This year, it has been suggested of those hospitals. it will break even. That is a wonderful achievement but it has staffing and work practice problems. The The rural recession has had a severe impact on the hospital has 10 beds and its attached hostel has 12 ability of the people in the Hopetoun area to pay for beds. In a letter to me, Mr John Turner, who is the private health insurance. Some areas of the Mallee manager of Charlton Bush Nursing Hospital, and are the most marginal farming areas in Australia. I who also works part time at Pyramid Hill, says: have been told by elderly people from that area that they are frightened to give up their private health ... it is unjustifiable to have on duty at all times two insurance and so they go without f~ and at times sisters at grade 4 class certification (for 22 beds). We without buying clothing so that they will have the also believe at night we should be able to be staffed by money to pay for it. That is a sad situation. one sister, two State-enrolled nurses. The possible savings would be substantial. However, extensive The committee of management at the Hopetoun negotiations would be required with the Australian Bush Nursing Hospital has invested its surplus Nursing Federation and we would want to have an funds to earn further interest. When interest rates enterprise agreement. were high it was able to meet the shortfall in operating expenses but now that interest rates have Although that facility has only 22 beds it has a fallen the income generated from those surplus problem with the Australian Nursing Federation funds will not now meet it. It appears that the and the required staffing arrangements. Flexibility is Hopetoun Bush Nursing Hospital will go down the required. This is a matter I am sure the Minister will same track as the Wedderburn, Murrayville and consider pursuing because it would greatly assist other bush nursing hospitals. They have a bush nursing hospitals to overcome some of their precarious future unless there is a change of union problems and it would ultimately result in government or the State and Federal governments substantial savings. Many hospitals have enormous change their attitudes. difficulties with the ratio of wages to administration in their budgets. The primary problem facing The Birchip Bush Nursing Hospital has 10 beds and Charlton Bush Nursing Hospital is the necessity to its nursing home has 10 beds. It has been struggling have separate staff in the charge pOSitions for its for some time to remain viable. It is only because of nursing home and the hospital. the endeavours and commitment of such people such as John Gould and others on the committee of Hopetoun Bush Nursing Hospital services a management that the hospital has been able to population of apprOximately 3000. The nearest survive. The government has been encouraging public hospitals are at Warracknabeal, which is 45 bush nursing hospitals to spend their reserves. minutes away, or Ouyen, which is 45 to 50 minutes away. The nearest major public hospitals are at Hon. B. A. Chamberlain - They have been Horsham, which is 1 hour and 20 minutes away, and forced rather than encouraged! Mildura, which is approximately 2 hours away. Hopetoun Bush Nursing Hospital has a visiting Hon. R. A. BEST - The reserve funds were spent speech therapist, podiatrist, district nurse - that are by the Birchip Bush Nursing Hospital to provide funded by the Warracknabeal District Hospital­ accommodation that was Vitally needed. The and a physiotherapist. It has an operating theatre community reCOgnised the need for a facility so that and midwifery facilities. It has facilities for elective its elderly people could be cared for in the surgery and once a month a plastic surgeon visits. community. The government has not provided All the services necessary for the health and funding for capital works or for maintenance. As a well-being of the community are available. A result, the Birchip hospital is in a precarious problem has arisen because a large proportion of the financial position. It has done everything within its population are ineligible to be treated at the power to address its financial crisis but its income is Hopetoun Bush Nursing Hospital. The hospital limited. In 1989-90 its occupancy rate was 75 per estimated that approximately 80 per cent of its client cent and it broke even. In 1990-91 its occupancy rate base have only Medicare and so they are unable to was again 75 per cent but it incurred a $52 000 loss. attend the hospital. In 1991-92 it is estimated that its occupancy rate will BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

642 COUNCIL Wednesday, 29 April 1992 again be around 75 per cent but it will probably Hon. R. A. BEST - They have given up the incur a $60 000 loss. They cannot increase their ghost. When you are in a precarious financial revenue. They have cut costs as much as possible position you take the most preferable option open to without jeopardising services but in the case of the you. When I contacted the Nyah hospital the Birchip Bush Nursing Hospital 83 per cent of president, Mr Ian Watson, was kind enough to send turnover is spent on salaries and government me some information which crystallises the charges,3 to 5 per cent goes to superannuation problems being faced not only by bush nursing contributions, 1 to 1.5 per cent goes to training hospitals but also by the local community. He lists a levies, 6.2 per cent goes to WorkCare levies, and number of pOints. His concerns are primarily aimed there are laundry charges and pharmaceutical at bush nursing hospitals in country Victoria. The charges, so the problems mount. first point he makes is that they are cost-effective and entirely private sector-financed. A similar problem is being experienced at the Hopetoun Bush Nursing Hospital. Many people in As they are community based a small loss of $20 000 Hopetoun cannot get health services from their local to $40 000 in a year's budget of $800 000 can very hospital. The point should be made again: the quickly send a hospital broke. It is difficult to raise nearest public hospital is at Wycheproof but there is that sort of money in the community year after year. no public transport to that town. Transport is not a Another vital point he makes is that allowing a problem in Melbourne. It is easy to get a tram, a community hospital to close basically guts the town. train or a bus to any hospital. In country Victoria the A huge number of bush nursing hospitals are about reality is that public transport does not exist as it 30 kilometres from larger hospitals. The concern is exists in the metropolitan area. that if one goes they all go.

There is no doubt that we need to assist local bush I turn to the experience at Wedderburn and nursing hospitals so the general community can Murrayville. While there are health services in those obtain treatment at the local hospital. That is why towns, employment has been lost. People no longer this motion is so important. It urges the State have employment and that impacts very severely on government to call on the Federal government to the local economy. give financial incentives to persons without private health insurance and where appropriate to enter into In debates in this House I often refer to the study contracts with bush nursing hospitals to provide implemented by Mr Walker in his former capacity as beds. the Minister for Agriculture and Rural Affairs. This small town study recognised the impact the loss of Mr Knowles mentioned the Sea Lake Bush Nursing one income had on a small town's economy and yet Hospital, which is not facing the same financial crisis here we have bush nursing hospitals ceasing to that other bush nursing hospitals are facing. Last operate, which means incomes are lost to the town. year the Sea Lake hospital broke even, and it will break even again this year. With the provision of I visited Murrayville with the then Minister for two public beds its problems are overcome. I do not Health, Mrs Hogg, and it was one of the most suggest that throwing money at bush nursing moving days of my Parliamentary career. The hospitals will solve the problem but if we consider people of the town and its surrounds lined the the bed mix - the allocation of acute bed days does streets of Murrayville while the Minister and I drove not mean necessarily allocating a number of beds - up in her car to meet the board of management of we may be able to overcome the problem. I urge the the hospital. The people carried placards which Minister to consider that suggestion. expressed their support for the local bush nursing hospital. What was so moving about the The same problems exist at the Nyah District Bush demonstration was that not one word was spoken Nursing Hospital, the Pyramid Hill Bush Nursing by the local community. It was as if they were all at Hospital and the Beulah and District Pioneers a funeral. They were bidding farewell to their Memorial Bush Nursing Hospital. Incidentally, the hospital. Rather than cause a ruckus in Beulah hospital has become a bush nursing centre demonstrating their concerns they were silent; they rather than a bush nursing hospital. behaved with very good manners and patience, which I do not think I could have done. They proved Hon. M. A. Lyster - With the support and conclusively to me what strength and will country assistance of the government! people have. BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

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Unfortunately this govenunent, like the Federal Hospital Policy and Administration Section, government, deserted them and once again they Department of Health, Housing and Community were let down. Services, which states:

Hon. R. I. Knowles - They were given false The Minister for Health, Housing and Community promises. They were promised services that they did Services, the Hon. Brian Howe, MP, has asked me to not get. reply on his behalf to your letter of 25 November 1991 to the Victorian Minister for Health about the plight of Hon. R. A. BEST - To appease the board of hospitals in rural areas, particularly bush nursing management, because I have no doubt she was hospitals. moved by the demonstration, the Minister made promises she knew she could not keep and the As things presently stand, the Commonwealth hospital was closed down. It was very government has no control over the operations of bush disappointing, especially for the local people nursing hospitals. Being private hospitals, they come because they had faith, but their hopes were dashed within the jurisdiction of the State government. by false promises. Minister, what responsibility do you take for the The Rainbow Bush Nursing Hospital is another plight of bush nursing hospitals? hospital in my electorate, and in my capacity as the Chairman of the Rural Task Force I met Hon. M. A. Lyster - My responsibilities are spelt representatives from the hospital who presented to out in my letter back to the shire secretary of 20 me a submission on the plight of bush nursing February 1992. hospitals. The submission was followed up by a letter from Ruth Mellington which outlines precisely Hon. R. A. BEST - I should be pleased if you the problems being confronted by bush nursing would read that to the House because I am most hospitals. In the letter, which is dated 29 March, she interested to know the information you passed on to says: the shire. We on this side of the House regard this as a game of flick-pass the football to anybody who Dear Sir, wants to pick it up because it is too hard for both State and Federal governments to fund bush nursing The problem facing bush nursing hospitals at the hospitals and assist them out of their financial moment is that neither State or Commonwealth plights. governments want to accept responsibility for them. Clearly the problems being confronted by bush This is highlighted in the attached Shire nursing hospitals are immense. Ruth Mellington, correspondence. Manager of the Rainbow Bush Nursing Hospital, wrote: That is correspondence from the Shire of Dimboola. In fact at the instigation of Gary Cross the Shire of As you are aware many bush nursing hospitals with Dimboola sent letters to both the Victorian Minister government assistance established nursing home for Health and the Federal Minister for Health, annexes. Housing and Community Services to ascertain their governments' policies on bush nursing hospitals. Hon. M. A. Lyster - So we have done something The reply from the Minister for Health reads in part: with govenunent assistance.

As the funding of bush nursing hospitals and the Hon. R. A. BEST- benefits for Commonwealth cardholders are the responsibility of the Commonwealth, I have directed These projects were undertaken on the assurance that your letter to the Deputy Prime Minister, Mc Brian there would be always some form of assistance given. Howe, Minister for Health, Housing and Community This has been in the form of 'top-up funding' in recent Services, for attention. years, which is now to cease; some agencies have been assured an extra 12-months funding (to 31 December Hon. M. A. Lyster - It is called the truth. 1992)-

Hon. R. A. BEST - It is called passing the buck. I Charlton is one of them - also have a letter from Mr Phil Tuckerman, Director, BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

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provided they meet restructure plans. To many One must also appreciate that those effective agencies, this reduction of funds will mean closure. full-time employment positions mean that many more people are employed. For example Hopetoun, In remote country areas, such as Rainbow, only a small which has 24.6 effective full-time pOSitions, actually percentage of the population are able to use the local employs 35 people and Charlton, with 25.5 effective hospital, because of non-acceptance of Medicare full-time positions, actually employs 45. A patients. This then means that the uninsured patient substantial level of employment is provided by bush must travel to Horsham or Nhill hospital for nursing hospitals. One also needs to appreciate the treatment - which makes it difficult for family to visit work that is done by the many volunteers on the without public transport. committee of management and the many people within the communities who work on a voluntary Again I mention the words "social justice". basis.

There have been two precedents set where bush Bush nursing hospitals in Victoria are facing nursing hospitals have been allocated public bed days financial crisis. As I said earlier, in 1988 there were to benefit both the hospital and community members. 10 bush nursing hospitals in my electorate and of those Wedderbum and Murrayville have closed, Rainbow Hospital has recently offered the services of a Beulah has become a nursing home and others at dentist to the Rainbow and Yaapeet communities. This Birchip and Pyramid Hill are facing severe financial service has been accepted well, but again, cannot be pressures. used by uninsured patients. Being an isolated town, it would be of great benefit to accept health care Victorian bush nursing hospitals have become the cardholders to use this service as has been done forgotten component of the Australian health elsewhere (Edenhope). system. Both State and Federal governments have put them in the too-hard basket. They are unique to Our hospitals are more than capable of delivering the Victoria. They are public hospitals but they are service required to the people of our community. non-profit organisations that are owned by their Through the denial of access to health care cardholders, local communities. Most of these hospitals are not only does it cripple our capabilities, but it also located in remote and isolated areas. In my burdens public hospitals. These public hospitals electorate residents have no choice but to rely on already have huge waiting lists. private health insurance if they are to seek treatment at their local bush nursing hospital. The catch 22 is that by not allowing health care cardholders to attend their local bush nursing That brings me to issues that I should like to expand hospital they are being pushed onto the waiting lists on. The first is to ask the Minister to explain to the of public hospitals within the region. House why bush nursing hospitals are so efficient in the cost-per-bed day. By comparing them with the The other issue I should like to raise is the important cost-per-bed day in public hospitals one can see the role of bush nursing hospitals in employing people efficiency of the bush nursing hospitals. I should like in country areas. Bush nursing hospitals are vital the Minister to explain whether she has perceived employers; that cannot be understated in the that that occurs and whether she recognises the role economy of small towns. In some cases they are the that bush nursing hospitals have played in biggest employers in the towns. The closure of bush providing services to country people. nursing hospitals is a potential time bomb for local economies. In fact it could be totally disastrous. Hon. M. A. Lyster - Are you saying there is no link between efficiency and cost? I shall explain the level of employment in bush nursing hospitals that occurs throughout country Hon. R. A. BEST - I am saying that the bush areas. In Beulah there are 16.2 effective full-time nursing hospitals have taken up a position that will employees at its bush nursing home; at Birchip, 21.7; allow them to treat patients where the hospital at Charlton, 25.5; at Hopetoun, 24.6; at Nyah, 12.7; at meets the cost. Pyramid Hill, 13.4; at Rainbow, 18.4 and at Sea Lake, 24.6. Some of those are bush nursing homes but I Hon. M. A. Lyster - That is not what you are have included them in the employment figures. saying. BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

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Hon. R. A. BEST -It is so. It is important that (i) urging the Federal government to give financial the government is prepared to contract out the incentives to persons without private health provision of beds to public patients. It is important insurance; and that we encourage people to take up private health (ii) where appropriate, entering into contracts with insurance and that we allow public patients to be bush nursing hospitals to provide public beds treated in bush nursing hospitals. Actions speak in their facilities. louder than words. I refer particularly to the former Lilydale Bush Four solutions could be initiated. Bush nursing Nursing Hospital, now the Lilydale and District hospitals should have, firstly, a mix of beds for acute Hospital, which has been in existence since the early care, nursing home patients and hospital patients, as 1930s. I was one of the first babies born at the then well as outpatient services; secondly, flexibility of Lilydale Bush Nursing Hospital, so I declare an staffing to provide the services that are required; interest in the hospital. In fact, my two brothers were thirdly, adequate capital funding to assist with their also born there. conversion; and fourthly, adequate ongoing funds to assist with recurrent costs. The interesting thing about the Lilydale hospital is that it was built by the community in the 193Os, The motion of Mr Knowles is important not only for during a time of depression, when Lilydale was the people in my electorate but for the people in all largely a farming community. The community had of country Victoria. The many boards of Cave Hill on the David Mitchell estate, part of Dame management of bush nursing hospitals have spent Nellie Melba's family estate, which was the largest many hours considering their futures and their dire employer in the area, but the hospital was also a financial problems and considering how they can significant employer. continue to provide the services that are enjoyed by people elsewhere in Victoria. Unless they have It is a quirk of history that bush nursing hospitals private health insurance people in rural have become private hospitals. As Mr Knowles said, communities often are unable to receive the hospital they are not public hospitals or community treatment they so rightly deserve. hospitals; they are perceived by the government as private hospitals. A private hospital would normally Some 80 per cent of the people in the community of be categorised as being owned by a company or Hopetoun are eligible for health card membership. people for the purpose of profit or, if not for profit, That means 80 per cent of the population cannot use run by a charitable organisation. Bush nursing the local bush nursing hospital. That is an hospitals are different because they are owned by indictment of the government because it divides the their local communities, and local communities still community into the haves and the have-nots. It is determine what happens to their hospitals. unacceptable to me and I know it is unacceptable to many of my colleagues. Until the advent of Medicare, Lilydale hospital functioned as an active, involved part of its It gives me great pleasure to support Mr Knowles's community. It was a major employer, proViding motion. acute, general, midwifery and ancillary services. Latterly, a nursing home wing has been added to Hon. ROSEMARY V ARTY (Nunawading) - I meet the needs of the ageing community. My family support the motion: has been involved with the hospital ever since it was built. Until quite recently my mother, who is aged That this House deplores the decline of the bush 84, went to the hospital to work in the kiosk, so she nursing hospital system as a direct result of was very closely linked to the hospital. government policies over the past ten years, and calls on the government to immediately address this decline In the early days Lilydale Bush Nursing Hospital by- did not have all the services I mentioned. When I went into hospital with a broken leg in the 1940s I (a) acknowledging the role of bush nursing hospitals in had to be taken to St George's Hospital at Kew for providing essential health services; and X-rays, because St George's had the nearest X-ray (b) undertaking to ensure their ongoing viability facility. Over time Lilydale has acquired many by- additional facilities which have been bought as a result of very intensive fundraising by the local community, at no small cost to the community, BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

646 COUNCIL Wednesday, 29 April 1992 which in years past was not urbanised in the way it which enables people to go home 2 or 3 days after, is now. say, a gall bladder operation, compared with the 7 to 9 days that patients had to stay in hospital Although Lilydale hospital is not in my electorate, it previously. As part of the capital spending to which is right on the border of my electorate. The bulk of I have referred, the hospital has invested the community which it has serviced for many years $50 OOO-plus in the latest anaesthetic monitoring will be in my new electorate. equipment to ensure compliance with the stringent standards now demanded in that area of care. The current financial position of Lilydale hospital has declined as its reserves have been depleted. As One could argue that the hospital should not have Mr Best pointed out, bush nursing hospitals have spent as heavily as it has in the areas to which I have managed their financial reserves very well over referred. If it had not, the number of patients treated many years, but their reserves have completely would almost certainly have been lower. Patients dried up in the past 12 months. As at 30 June 1990 would have gone to the bigger private or public the reserves of the Lilydale hospital stood at hospitals that offer the services now required by $700 000, but by 31 December 1991 that figure had people, that is, the hospitals in which the extra declined to nil. Having been in a very good financial equipment has been put to use. The point made by situation the hospital now faces a very difficult the hospital is that if it had not spent as much as it situation. It has not had to go into overdraft, but that has on capital items the number of patients treated prospect is now looming and will certainly occur would have been far lower. As a result the hospital next month. would have reached an overdraft position sooner. In a way it was perhaps putting off the evil day; if it The decline has occurred because, firstly, the nursing did not invest in the way it did it would have home has been a very great drain on resources. The reached the stage of being in an even more difficult issue of nursing homes was debated in this House financial situation than it is currently approaching. recently. It is common knowledge that nursing homes are under-funded by at least $5 per resident I refer to another cost. Because of the reduced per day. In the case of Lilydale hospital, which has number of patients treated, the hospital needs fewer 30 residents, that under-funding causes a deficiency staff. The result has been redundancies and of approximately $55 000 a year. retrenchments. In October of last year, in response to its seriously deteriorating financial position and The acquisition of capital items to keep the hospital following a considerable period of consultation with up to date creates a chicken and egg situation. If the the staff, the hospital made a difficult decision - it hospital does not have the equipment, people will is always a difficult decision - to retrench nine staff not come to the hospital; if the hospital buys the members. Another four were encouraged to retire. equipment, its resources will be depleted. The cost of that exercise depleted the hospital's finances by another $70 000. Although some of the Lilydale hospital has gone down the track of outlay was actually accrued long service leave and acquiring the latest technology and putting in place annual leave that had been provided for, in cold the latest procedures because they reduce the hard cash the exercise cost the hospital $70 000. patients' lengths of stay and therefore, of course, increase the utilisation of hospital beds. WorkCare is another important element that is increasing in cost. It has seriously impacted on the In the financial year ended 30 June 1990, the hospita1 hospital's financial viability. In the current financial spent some $320 000 on capital items; in the year year, Lilydale and District Hospital has faced a levy ended 30 June 1991, the amount spent was $213 000; increase of 50 per cent. Its claims record was and up to 31 March of this year, the hospital spent adversely considered by the Accident Compensation $180 000. Almost all of that has been investment in Commission because of two long-term work-related medical technology, such as a hysteroscope, which stress claims. Both the employees concerned were has averted the necessity for a total hysterectomy for militant union activists who had little interest in the 3 out of 10 patients. As a result a lO-day stay in financial well-being of the institution. When they hospital has been reduced to a I-day stay for those were challenged, they chose - at the direction of patients. their union - the WorkCare option. Again a financial burden has been imposed on the hospital The hospital has purchased equipment to enable it to through a manipulation of the system by militant use the latest techniques in laparoscopic surgery, unionists. BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

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Of course, the most damaging element of all has figures for theatre cases are shown for 1988 and been the decline in the level of private health following years. In the current year to date the insurance taken out in the community. Both occupancy rate is down to 61 per cent, with 2430 Mr Knowles and Mr Best went into some detail admissions, 578 births and 1482 theatre cases. about the decline and its impact. The community in the area served by the Ulydale and District Hospital The most alarming aspect of the statistics is that the has been hard-hit by the recession. It has a rural percentage occupancy rates for the first three component as well as a working-class component months of 1992 were 55 per cent in January, and, as honourable members are well aware, they 53 per cent in February and 52 per cent in March. are the two sectors that have been hardest hit by the One can see that there has been a continuing decline recession. in occupancy rates as a result of the worsening economic situation and the inability of the hospital The impact of the recession is evidenced in two to admit patients who are not privately insured forms: the rapid decline in the number of maternity unless the hospital is prepared to carry the cost of cases handled and the increase in the use by those patients. That means the number of uninsured uninsured patients of the facilities for short-stay patients has grown as a percentage of total surgical procedures. admissions.

Interestingly, the hospital has just commenced an We do not hear anything from the Minister for ophthalmology theatre list. On 23 March, the first Health about the statistics relating to uninsured operating day, eight patients were on the list and patients, and I am not sure whether Health seven of them were uninsured. That is the other side Department Victoria keeps records on them. In of the public hospital waiting list numbers, which 1989-90 at Lilydale the ratio of uninsured patients are obviously artificially low: the juxtaposition of a was 4 per cent; so far, in the financial year to new element being worked by the hospital, a new June 1992, it is more than 11 per cent, a trebling of unit, with seven of the eight patients being the number of uninsured patients. That is partly uninsured. I invite honourable members to reflect on explained by the fact that there are now day surgery what that means in terms of trends for the hospital. procedures that are less expensive than a long-term stay in hospital and uninsured patients are more In the first three months of this year the decline in prepared to carry the costs of those day procedures. the number of patients with private health insurance However, the figures illustrate the problems that are has been even more marked. Of course the major inherent in what is happening. medical funds have introduced some fairly heavy increases in health insurance costs, and as a result The Maroondah Hospital, the closest public hospital some families are having to opt out of private health to the Ulydale and District Hospital, has an cover. There has also been some fairly negative alarmingly long waiting list and very high media coverage of the health insurance industry and occupancy rates and it could benefit from a number that has not helped. of beds at Lilydale hospital being made available either for medical procedures or at least for Sitting suspended 12.58 p.m. until 2.3 p.m. recuperation following medical procedures that require patients to be hospitalised for more than a Hon. ROSEMARY V ARTY - Prior to the day. That option was explored tentatively some time suspension of the sitting I had outlined the ago. I am not sure of the outcome, but I suspect it fell contribution made over some 60 years to the through because it is not mentioned in the Lilydale and surrounding community by the information presented to me by Mr Allan Holder, Lilydale and District Hospital and was proceeding Chief Executive Officer of the Lilydale and District to examine some of the trends over time in relation Hospital. to that hospital. I am grateful to Mr Holder for so willingly In 1985 the hospital had an occupancy rate of supplying me with information. He has a genuine 70.2 per cent, with 3051 admissions and 1000 births. commitment to the continuance of the Ulydale and In 1986 the occupancy rate went up to 74.4 per cent, District Hospital. I also suspect that a number of with 3332 admissions and 1093 births. The people in Health Department Victoria also have a occupancy rate then began to decline, and by 1990 commitment to the continuance of some form of was 62.1 per cent, with 3205 admissions, 945 births hospital service; it seems the problem is only a and 1712 theatre cases. On the schedule I have, matter of finding the correct mechanism for BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

648 COUNCIL Wednesday, 29 April 1992 ensuring that hospitals like the Lilydale and District taken, and the discussions the Minister for Health Hospital do not close before action can be taken. had recently with her State and Federal counterparts provided an ideal opportunity to impress on the I alert the Minister to the fact that a critical stage has Commonwealth government the importance of been reached. Unless something is done before the providing inducements to people to rejoin or stay in end of the financial year not only will the Lilydale private hospital benefit funds. hospital be faced with possible closure but a significant number of other bush nursing hospitals Bush nursing hospitals are officially deSignated as will also close, placing an additional burden on private hospitals. That is a funny designation. The already stretched public hospital facilities. concept of a private hospital is based on private ownership, with individuals deriving some benefit I implore the Minister to heed the motion, and I in the form of a return on investment or a dividend. support the remarks made by my colleagues. The designation of private hospital is quite inappropriate for bush nursing hospitals. Ownership Hon. B. A. CHAMBERLAIN (Western) - The of these hospitals is vested in small local bush nursing system of hospitals in Victoria has a communities. The hospitals are in public ownership very proud record. Sadly, in the past decade there but the taxpayer is relieved of the burden of has been a reduction in the provision of acute providing capital and operating expenses. The State hospital services, depriving many communities of and Federal governments have wiped their hands of essential medical services. responsibility for bush nursing hospitals even though those hospitals provide 1000 beds that do not Under the system that operated 10 years ago almost have to be provided elsewhere. all bush nursing hospitals provided acute medical services and possessed substantial financial reserves. My colleague Mr Best quoted from correspondence When I was first elected to Parliament in 1973 I that was sent to the opposition by the Dimboola visited the Natimuk Bush Nursing Hospital and was Shire Council that clearly indicates a wiping of impressed by the way the investments of the hands by both the State and Federal governments. hospital board generated income and enabled the The council is concerned about the future viability of hospital to provide its own capital funding without the Rainbow Bush Nursing Hospital. I shall be assistance. pleased, along with my colleague Mr Hallam, to represent the Rainbow community after the next Ten years ago almost all bush nursing hospitals had election. That community is concerned about its substantial capital reserves that had not fallen into ability to provide medical services. their hands but had been gained through operating surpluses and fundraising by the communities. Bush I ask the House to contrast the contents of the letter nursing hospitals proVide their own capital funding from the Minister for Health to the Dimboola Shire and are not a drain on government. Council with the letter to the council from the director of the then Federal Department of Health, At the same time membership of hospital benefit Housing and Community Services. The Victorian funds was approximately 70 per cent. In contrast, Minister's letter to the shire council states: the number of bush nursing hospitals has now been reduced to 32 and many are just holding on. They As the funding of bush nursing hospitals and the provide more than 1000 beds, of which 550 are acute benefits for Commonwealth card holders are the and the rest aged care beds. I am advised by the responsibility of the Commonwealth, I have directed executive officer of the Victorian Bush Nursing your letter to the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Brian Association that only about three or four hospitals Howe, then Minister for Health, Housing and are operating with financial surpluses and that the Community Services, for attention. pressure on them is increasing daily. The letter to the council from the director of the Concurrent with that, the membership of hospital Federal Department of Health, Housing and benefit funds has fallen in some cases to less than Community Services states: 40 per cent of Victorian taxpayers. The estimate for the Natimuk hospital benefit fund is about 35 per As things presently stand, the Commonwealth cent! That reduction in membership of private government has no control over the operations of bush hospital funds has had a disastrous impact on the nursing hospitals. Being private hospitals, they come finances of bush nursing hospitals. Action should be within the jurisdiction of the State government. BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

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The council of the Shire of Dimboola wrote to the closure was a tremendous blow to the local Victorian Minister for Health on 20 February 1992 community. stating: The hospital has been in existence for decades and Council is disgusted with the replies. Please clarify the many families have been involved in fundraising or fact from fiction and advise who is responsible for bush working on committees to support the hospital. The nursing hospitals. town had a local doctor who could provide acute medical services, yet suddenly that has been Hon. M. A. Lyster - And I did in my letter back switched off and the patients have been moved to the council. elsewhere.

Hon. B. A. CHAMBERLAIN - I know the In December 1990 the Victorian Bushing Nursing Minister will reveal the pearls of wisdom contained Association put forward a number of proposals to in that letter. Mc Brian Howe, the then Federal Minister for Community Services and Health. The submission Hon. R. I. Knowles - But do they get any argued for flexibility in the way funds are provided. money? It states in part:

Hon. B. A. CHAMBERLAIN - No. Where does Our broad proposal is that fee for service per occupied the abdication of responsibility by the State and bed day for each acute admission will equate to the Federal governments leave those communities? current standard hospital fees for the purpose of They have no source of revenue for acute services payment of beds as detailed in the Department of other than payments by patients either directly or Community Services and Health standard hospital through the medical benefit funds. The fees ... Commonwealth government was paying a day bed allowance until some years ago, but that has since A supplementary fee for surgery, at the levels equating stopped. The lack of revenue has meant that many to the schedule at attachment "B" to the above circular, of the hospitals are rurming at a loss and are is also proposed for the designated patient group. That resorting to using the reserves they have built up submission was ignored by the Federal government. over many years. Flexibility is required because hospital beds can be I cite the classic example, which my colleague used for different purposes. For example, a patient Mr Hallam and I have been involved in, of the may enter the hospital for respite care, for which the Merino Bush Nursing Hospital - it is now a bush hospital is paid $40 a day. While the patient is there nursing centre. The hospital wrote to me in May last he or she could contract a serious illness such a year pointing out that even with 100 per cent pneumonia and, although continuing to occupy the occupancy it was rurming at a loss. As at March 1991 same bed as an acute patient, a health fund would it had lost $32 000. Its cash reserves had been have to pay $250 a day. Let us assume that the whittled down to $115 000, about the same figure patient then has a stroke and is entitled to be that it required to payout its staff when it closed. deSignated as a nursing home patient. The average nursing home rate is $115 a day. The 10 patients at that hospital were dispersed to other institutions. They are mainly elderly people In its submission of July 1989 the Natimuk Bush and they were dragged out of their community Nursing Hospital argued for a flexible approach, where they are well known and have families and which my colleague Mr Knowles spelt out in his sent to hospitals or accommodation elsewhere, far statement, to meet the varying needs of patients. I away from their families. It is the best way I know of shall read from the submission of the killing off old people! Manager /Secretary, Mc Doug Issell, who said:

The Merino Bush Nursing Hospital was forced to We consider the key to a successful multipurpose cease operating as a hospital and to operate as a facility would be the flexible use of beds: i.e. acute, bush nursing centre. It may have the opportunity of nursing home, hostel and respite care dovetailed into developing as a dementia hostel. I know pressure is other community based health services - community being put by Brierly hospital to provide for health centre, district nursing, home nursing, day care, dementia beds in south-western Victoria. The health care classes, and other services such as chiropody and dental on a visiting basis. BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

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The flexibility would of course provide the services not I note your request that bush nursing hospitals should only on a needs basis but would be fulfilling these be permitted to have access to Commonwealth card needs as required. If beds are strictly registered as to holders and concur with your view. In fact, I have their servicing: e.g., acute - then the beds would be raised this matter with the Minister for Health in the left unused if needed for another type of Parliament several times over the last few years, but to patient/ resident. date I have not had a positive response.

Because our institutions are not profit motivated the I can assure you that the State coalition will have a patients in our hospitals and residents in our nursing sound policy for bush nursing hospitals in place prior homes receive the best accommodation and care. to the next election. We have made a total commitment of support of the bush nursing system, and this will That is the sort of flexibility required to include a strategy to allow contracting out of local accommodate the unusual mixed needs of patients Medicare patients into the private system. and residents at those hospitals. That same hospital is seeking to increase its number of nursing home In that case the private system includes the bush beds by 10, and I was pleased that in a recent nursing hospitals. The response continues: discussion with Mr Bill McGrath, the honourable member for Lowan in the other place, and me, the You may also be aware that the Federal coalition has Minister gave a commitment and strong support - I released its health policy this week, and I am delighted suggested it was strong support and she said it was that the shadow Minister, Dr Bob Woods has support but later agreed that it was strong announced proposals to encourage more people to take support - to the application for a further 10 nursing out private health cover. home beds at Natimuk. The need to provide encouragement for people to Another nursing home at Cobden in Western return to or retain private health cover is absolutely Province has 30 nursing home beds and 15 acute vital for the continuation of the two hospitals still beds. I understand it has been seeking approval for a providing acute care through the bush nursing 3O-bed hostel, and if that goes ahead it will enable system. the valuable work being carried out by the community to continue, although under enormous I support the motion; it is of vital importance. The financial strain. bush nursing hospital system is still providing 1000 beds for medical and aged care to country As I said before, of the 32 bush nursing hospitals still Victorians, not only in distant country towns but in operating, only 3 or 4 are operating at a surplus. places as close to the city as Lilydale, which is now Mr Best spelt out the case of the Rainbow Bush an expanding suburb. That particular hospital Nursing Hospital which will be induded in Western nurtured Mrs Varty, so it must be a pretty good Province after the next election. Mr Hallam and I hospital! This community service must be will be happy to look after the needs of the people supported, and I commend the motion to the House. involved with that hospital. I know Mr Best looked after them well and I suppose Mr Wright may have Hon. G. P. CONNARD (Higinbotham) - I am been there occasionally. delighted to support the motion moved by Mr Knowles. As has been mentioned by my The hospital is dependent on community support. colleague, a Significant report on this subject in The president of the hospital committee, Cr Gary recent times was the Nineteenth report to the Cross, is committed to the continuation of services in Parliament: review of bush nursing seroices in Victoria of that town, but the finances are precarious. The the Social Development Committee. It was a child of requirements for a change in the system are the the Economic and Budget Review Committee, of same as those requested by Natimuk. In that case the which I was a member at that time. I participated question is: what would be the attitude of a coalition and took a keen interest in the inquiry. As a to that system? city-based person it was interesting to see the valuable services given by the bush community. At The Shire of Dimboola asked the shadow Minister that time the bush nursing movement in this State for Health, Marie Tehan, just that question, and in comprised 36 hospitals, 14 of which had nursing her response of 22 November 1991 she said: homes attached and 2 of which had hostels attached. Those hospitals were linked together as the Victorian Bush Nursing Association along with one BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

Wednesday, 29 April 1992 COUNCIL 651 nursing home and 17 nursing home centres. intended to address the problem. The report Mr Knowles outlined the beginnings of the particularly recommended mandatory HACC association in 1910 and I do not intend to cover that funding to assist bush nursing homes. That has not ground again. The motion took me back to the happened. As a result of their own initiatives, one or recommendations of the committee, all of which two of the bush nursing organisations have attracted were accepted by the Minister as valuable and the small amounts of HACC funding, but as a matter of majority of which were endorsed by the Minister. philosophy the socialist government does not However, I will comment on some of the approve of private enterprise facilities and it has not recommendations about which nothing has been encouraged the implementation of that done since. recommendation which would have given great advantage to bush nursing homes. As Mr Knowles said the bush nursing agencies are non-profit organisations and their essential character Recommendation 4.15 is very important. The is to provide services to rural Victoria. The committee recommends: committee certainly examined their economic efficiencies at that time and, much to my personal ... access to public hospital facilities is temporary, due surprise, I discovered the very acute interest of each to waiting time problems, consideration should be of the communities that had devoted a great deal of given to leasing beds in bush nursing hospitals for time, energy and effort to raiSing capital funds for public use. Where inadequate access to public hospital some excellent facilities - both bush nursing facilities is a persistent problem consideration should hospitals and bush nursing centres. be given to converting bush nursing hospitals to public status. The involvement of the community in those areas was indeed remarkable. At that time - five years As Mr Knowles commented earlier, only two beds in ago - one of the recommendations of the committee this State - I think they are at Sea Lake - have was that Health Department Victoria and the been converted to public use. Although that Department of Community Services Victoria give recommendation was broadly accepted by the then favourable consideration to applicatiOns for bush Minister for Health it has not been implemented. nursing hospitals to receive funding under the home and community care program, particularly when The second part of that recommendation - to those applications were supported by the regional convert bush nursing hospitals to public health officer and the local government authority. status -has not been taken up. Successive health Ministers, from Mr White through to Mrs Hogg and As has been explained by previous speakers, the the present Minister, have just ignored it. bush nursing hospitals and centres are Recommendation 4.16 states: fundamentally non-profit organisations, receiving very little if any funding from the government for The committee recommends that bush nursing their purposes. Previous speakers have explained hospitals continue, where appropriate, to enter into that because of the advent of socialist governments arrangements for the provision of care to patients for in both the State and Federal arenas the number of whom authorities such as the Transport Accident people who have health insurance has declined Commission and Department of Veterans Affairs have considerably. responsibilities.

At the beginning of the last decade approximately It would have been a powerful addition to the 68 per cent of the population were insured and by finances of the bush nursing hospitals if they could the time this report had been issued the figure had have access to rehabilitative care through the fallen to something like 54 per cent, and it is now of Transport Accident Commission (fAC) and the the order of 40 per cent. Consequently, people Department of Veterans Affairs. What has cannot afford to come to bush nursing hospitals happened? The answer is: nothing. The fundamental because they do not have health insurance and the difficulty is, and I quote from the report: beds are not subsidised by the government. As a result people do not have access to this form of The recent phasing out of Commonwealth private health care. hospital bed day subsidies and the replacement of hospital categorisation by patient classification for the Some of the recommendations made by the purposes of determining insurance rebates may have Economic and Budget Review Committee are significant effects on bush nursing hospitals. BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

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Up until that time the private hospitals generally gave me some recent correspondence which had a direct bed subsidy. Again, the socialist contained letters directed to former health Ministers government in Canberra, supported by the socialist Mr White, Mrs Hogg and the present Minister. government in Victoria, eliminated that subsidy from the mid-1980s, causing greater distress to the POSSibly the most germane correspondence finances of the bush nursing organisations. addressed to Mr Long comes from the Gelantipy District Bush Nursing Centre Inc., which gives a Because of my professional background as a summary of problems experienced by remote pharmacist I took a specific interest in visiting some nursing centres and the needs in their communities. of the bush nursing centres. These centres do not It sta tes in part: necessarily have beds, but they are content to give medical and surgical advice. Mr Acting President, Subsequent to the review, the Health Department you would know the area I visited because it is in Victoria Remote Area Nurse (RAN) Practice Committee the high mountain country in your electorate. No published its report (December 1987), recommending doubt you have visited these centres. changes in the drug regulations which would enable remote area nurses to administer and supply I saw dedicated nurses doing frontier work in those medications for patients who, due to illness, were mountains. I heard of an occasion one winter's night unable to travel to the nearest pharmacy or doctor. when a logging truck had an accident some 60 kilometres away from the nearest medical That situation is slightly different from the accident facilities. The logs had rolled off the truck and the problem I was describing earlier, but it is equally legs of the driver were pinned underneath. The important for families that live in the mountains, nearest ambulance was 60 kilometres away, more have no immediate access to doctors, and must than 2 hours drive away - and the nursing sister is travel for 2 or 3 hours along mountain roads to at the cutting edge with a man screaming in pain. receive medical treatment. Remote area nurses may have the education to cope with people suffering The only relief available to him was morphine. The from heart complaints or other serious complaints nurse was adequately equipped to give it, illegally. but they do not have the authority to provide the The nurse took that risk and gave him an injection necessary service and dispense drugs. The letter illegally. Nurses continue to do it illegally. If I were continues: involved in an accident in those hills I would be requiring an injection of morphine for the relief of The Poisons Advisory Committee, acting on advice pain, even if it was administered illegally. from a subcommittee set up to advise it on necessary regulatory changes, has agreed to allow remote area The committee's recommendation 6.10 states: nurses to be approved to administer those drugs listed on protocols drawn up for life threatening emergencies. The committee recommends that protocols be Any other substances under schedules 3, 4, 7 (Part 11) developed by the HDV covering any restricted and 8 may not be supplied. substances and drugs of addiction that remote area nurses may be authorised to administer to patients I do not have the drug list in front of me, but I am without having to obtain prior medical approval. advised that schedule 8 of the regulations applies to acute pain-relieving drugs and schedule 4 to drugs That was supported by recommendation 6.9, which for use in the treatment of heart conditions or states: vascular conditions that must be controlled by regulation. It appears the government quite rightly The committee recommends that the Poisons Advisory improved the position by providing limited facilities Committee draw up a list of restricted substances and but it has not given the nurses the ability to use their drugs of addiction which it would be feasible and professional competence in supplying medicines for desirable to allow nurses in remote areas to administer pain-relieving or acute services, so nothing has to patients in emergency situations without having to changed. obtain prior medical approval. Successive Ministers have said, ''Yes, the report says What has happened since then? Mr Long has given the problem is growing so we must protect our me a great deal of correspondence about his nurses who could well be summonsed, taken to activities as a local member attempting to have these court, charged and convicted." I have personal recommendations implemented. This morning he experience of the problem and have been advised on BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

Wednesday, 29 April 1992 COUNCIL 653 it by my colleague Mr Long, who represents know how well the government has managed Gippsland Province, I suggest the Minister consider Victoria over the past decade. The coalition believes the issue and then take action. It would not be in free enterprise and in providing opportunities for difficult for her to do something about the problem, groups of people to develop their own businesses although my own profession may not agree. I am and deliver services to the community. happy to assist the Minister in negotiations with my profession to get some commonsense into the Victoria's health services have deteriorated provisions. significantly because of the government's philosophy of not supporting bush nursing centres A Parliamentary report has been tabled and has and hospitals. It is a crying shame that health been extensively discussed but little has been done. Ministers over the years have not reopened the Recommendation 6.17 of the report states: Nineteenth report to the Parliament: review o/bush nursing services in Victoria, which was issued in 1987. The committee recommends that HDV capital funding In their contributions my colleagues have referred to be made available to bush nursing centres when a need similar stories about the government's failure to has been demonstrated. provide basic medical care to rural communities. I thoroughly support the motion moved by I have used the word "centres" in my contribution Mr Knowles because it is both germane and because these are not bush nursing hospitals. The appropriate. Although this, in part, is a Federal centres I refer to are in the mountains and remote government issue, we must make our protest as areas where there is limited ability to raise capital loud and as well as we can. funds for equipment or buildings. Although the Parliamentary committee made the recommendation Hon. G. R. CRAIGE (Central Highlands) - The to the government, only limited funding has been coalition is clearly dedicated to the bush nursing made available to improve the centres over the past hospital system. Honourable members on this side few years. I am not talking about millions of dollars; of the House have no problems about supporting perhaps only a few thousand dollars would be one of the most vital links in health services in sufficient to give these special nurses some comfort country Victoria. I refer the House to an article in the in their ability to administer drugs. Herald of 5 March 1912 which refers not to health services but to bush nurses and the Significant role Recommendation 6.18 states: they play in prOViding health services to the community. At that time their role was similar to The committee recommends that there be no general that of a policeman or a clergyman who were requirement for bush nursing centres to convert to considered to be the friends of all. The article states: community health centre status. Conversion may, however, be desirable in particular cases, but this Of all women workers, perhaps the Australian bush should only be achieved through negotiation and nurse stands highest ... A nurse with heart, brain and general consensus, not compulsion. education can tell the young mother just what she should know, just what the State school utterly failed to Since then Health Department Victoria has been teach her '" if she happens to be a woman fit for the saying there is no money in the State's coffers. It has position, (she) is the true missionary ... (bush nurses) told those centres to convert to community health often do the work of doctor, servant and nurse centres so that they can obtain some Commonwealth combined. More than that ... they think healthy funding. As a result many bush nursing centres and thoughts ... and inspire their patients with something of hospitals have been converted to community health their own feelings. centres rather than continuing in their roles of delivering health services through hospitals. We should never lose sight of the significant role Although the number of health centres may have nurses played in pioneering health services in rural increased the medical services provided in these Australia. areas have diminished. That is an enormous shame. Hon. E. H. Walker - You have to go back to 1912 This issue clearly distinguishes between the to find that out. philosophies of the Labor and coalition parties. The Labor Party, which is in office in Canberra and Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - I have quoted the 1800s. Spring Street, is a socialist party that believes the Clearly today we are ignoring history. We should government knows best. Honourable members not ignore it because one must learn from history. BUSH NURSING HOSPITAlS

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The dedicated nurses played a diverse community It is important to acknowledge and to place on role. When one reads the history of their role, one record the significant role they played throughout finds tales of how bush nurses were summoned to history. farms to be midwives. They delivered children but also had to stay with families on the farms; they Many of the nurses who work in bush nursing became members of the families. They were hospitals today have the same dedication. They expected to milk the cows, do the washing and cook work well beyond the realms of what one could the meals. Often it included copping the cold fury of expect in the normal workplace. They have added to husbands because they had delivered daughters the spirit of bush nursing hospitals and have created instead of sons. a community environment. 1hat has come from part of our history. We may make light of it, because the Hon. M. A. Lyster - Do you really want this in times were different then, but we should recognise Hansard? that what we have today has been built up through history. Bush nurses deserve much credit for the Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - Yes, because I believe the system that has evolved. Today they are learned in bush nurses played a Significant role in providing dealing with medicine. health services in Victoria and Australia and that is why we should go in to bat for them today. If that Hon. M. A. Lyster - What about a laparoscopic vital link is lost we have lost part of our heritage. cholecystectomy?

Hon. E. H. Walker - What about milking the Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - What is that? cows? Hon. M. A. Lyster - It is the removal of a gall Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - It went further than that; bladder. bush nurses throughout Australia were expected to bake the cream puffs and lamingtons for local balls. Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - I think they carry out It is important to recognise the role bush nurses and some of those operations in bush nursing hospitals. bush nursing hospitals played in the community. For the purpose of this debate we should call them gall bladder removals. There are many photographs: a bush nurse with snow skis and a pack on her back going to a farm in Hon. M. A. Lyster - It took me nearly 12 months the high country; and nurses riding horses through to say laparoscopic cholecystectomy! storms to reach sick or injured people or to deliver children. Sometimes they had the comfort of a horse Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - In September 1910 the and cart. They performed not only the tasks about Victorian Bush Nursing Association was formed which I have spoken but also they were professional because of the lack of health services in rural health providers. They provided numerous surgical Victoria and Australia. The boundaries of health care procedures, such as the incision of boils, applying ended at the edge of the metropolitan areas. cold or mustard poultices, and so on. Hon. M. A. Lyster - Why didn't the Liberal Hon. M. A. Lyster - Did they perform government do something about that? laparoscopic cholecystectomies? Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - Doctors visited the small, Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - They would not be too growing towns but provided services only to those good on those, but I assure you they carried out people who could afford them. Because of that there various remedies, such as using leeches to rectify was a real need to establish bush nursing hospitals. blood ailments. 1hat was considered a modern form of medicine. The Victorian Bush Nursing Association was founded by Lady Dudley, the wife of the then Hon. M. A. Lyster - Leeches are still used. Governor-General. Similar hospitals in England were established in those early days. In 1910 there Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - There are a few around, were more than 80 districts throughout Australia aren't there! I will not mention where they are. The interested in obtaining the services of bush nurses, nurses played not only the role of surgeons but also and seven centres were opened in 14 districts. Four of midwives, family planners, and child-care centres opened in 1915; five in 1916; and an workers. They also undertook community activities. additional four in 1918. By June 1921, after the first BUSH NURSING HOSPITALS

Wednesday, 29 April 1992 COUNCIL 655 bush nursing hospital opened in Beech Forest, some everything possible to keep that bush nursing 33 bush nurses were working throughout different hospital operating. The only reason it exists today is areas of Victoria. The nurses provided a vital service. because of community commitment, particularly Bush nursing hospitals are seen as non-profit through donations and bequests. organisations without religious affiliation but they are a real part of the community; they are In 1980 Lancefield had one doctor; today it has two self-contained and autonomous. We summon the doctors plus two visiting general practitioners. No Victorian Labor government to mount a charge on doctor would move to the area unless there is a behalf of rural Victoria and to go with as much perceived need. Obviously there has been an ammunition as possible to do battle for this very increase in demand for medical services, yet the important service that provides a network of health hospital is facing closure. care in rural Victoria. Today the hospital officials advised me that it would I am sure the Minister for Health has made some cost between $150 000 and $200 000 to close the noises to her Federal colleague in Canberra but we hospital. Where will that money come from? want a genuine attempt. In company with my colleagues on this side, I Hon. R. I. Knowles - We want a roar rather than support the motion of Mr Knowles. The government a whimper. can no longer walk around wearing blinkers and thinking that health services stop at the edge of Hon. G. R. CRAIGE - Yes, a roar rather than a suburbia; many changes have taken place in the whimper. It is important because we must be provision of health services. realistic. We are giving the Minister an opportunity to be armed with all the ammunition possible to Now Victoria needs greater flexibility in the fight the good fight. provision of health care. The Victorian government and the Federal government could immediately act In conclusion, I mention the situation facing the positively by entering into contracts with bush Lancefield Bush Nursing Hospital. In 1948 that nursing hospitals so that they may provide public hospital was finding it difficult to continue to beds. The government can walk out of here today operate due to constraints and funding problems. In and take that action tomorrow, if it is interested in 1955 it was renovated and upgraded to become a what is happening with health services. six-bed hospitat at a cost of £14000, with an additional £2000 used to equip the hospital further. The communities of rural Victoria are experiencing Much of that money was raised through local much tralll}la because of the uncertainty about community efforts. The local Returned and Services health serv_e5. It is time the government realised its League donated funds to that hospital appeal. responsibilities beyond the boundaries of metropolitan Melbourne. It has a responsibility to In March 1956 a three-bed ward was added to the provide health services for all Victorians. Therefore, building. Since 1956 the hospital has increased its it is with much pleasure that I support the motion of bed numbers by four. MrKnowles.

That hospital- now with thirteen beds - faces the Hon. M. A. LYSTER (Minister for Health) - I threat of closure due to a lack of funding. It is thank Mr Knowles for his motion; the government situated in a growth corridor. It is expected that the will not support it but it has been interesting to hear 8000 popula tion in the Shire of Romsey will increase the points made by different honourable members in to 13 000 by the year 2000. That growth corridor will the course of the debate. face a severe lack of hospital services. Its survival is important not only for today's local community but Next week I shall be meeting with the Victorian also for future citizens. People are moving to the Bush Nursing Association (VBNA) as a follow-up to area; they are not moving to Melbourne but out of a meeting I held with the association several months Melbourne and into the growth corridors, creating a ago. At the time I invited the representatives to real demand for proper services. They need a proper return to me with options about the way the hospital. government could most appropriately work with the association to look at the future of bush nursing At present the hospital staff are donating part of hospitals throughout Victoria. their wages and have taken pay cuts. They are doing CRIMES (CULPABLE DRIVING) BILL

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I would like to hear from the VBNA because I know unsafe driving, particularly where excessive speed it has already placed items on the agenda that have or alcohol is involved. not been raised by members of the opposition -- An aspect of that change has been an apparent The ACflNG PRESIDENT - Order! In this toughening of attitudes towards those who cause situation I take it that the Minister would like to death on the roads. Last year a number of reports in make a brief response, have the debate adjourned the media reflected the concern felt by many and reserve her right to speak after she has held the members of the community that the legal response meeting with the Victorian Bush Nursing to those who cause death when driving is Association? inadequate. In response to that concern I asked the Victorian Law Reform Commission to review the Hon. M. A. LYSTER - Yes. law relating to the offences of manslaughter, culpable driving causing death and reckless driving. The ACflNG PRESIDENT - Order! That, in In particular the commission was asked to consider fact, will require leave. whether there should be a clearer scale of culpability among the three offences and whether the present Hon. R. I. Knowles - Leave is granted. scale of penalties is appropriate. The commission analysed the present law and commissioned Hon. M. A. LYSTER - When I have heard from research into community attitudes to dangerous the association and further examined the points driving and the charging practices of police, and its made in today's debate I shall welcome the report makes a number of proposals for legislative opportunity to respond in more detail to today's change. debate. Manslaughter charges against people whose grossly Therefore, I reserve my right to respond and by negligent driving causes the death of another are a leave of the House, I move: rarity. Police have complained that prosecutors are reluctant to use the charge of manslaughter even in That the debate be adjourned. very serious cases. This is because they know that if by chance the manslaughter charges fail there is no Motion agreed to and debate adjourned. appropriate lesser charge to fall back on. Prosecutors are forced to choose between manslaughter - an Debate adjourned until next day. offence carrying a IS-year penalty - and culpable driving causing death - an offence carrying a CRIMES (CULPABLE DRI~NG) BILL 10-year penalty under the Sentencing Act 1990. It is easy to see why prosecutors would take the Second reading conservative approach of charging culpable driving causing death in all but the most extreme cases. This Hon. M. A. LYSTER (Minister for Health) - I means that cases which may well deserve the higher move: penalty of a manslaughter conviction go forward under the less serious charge of culpable driving That this Bill be now read a second time. causing death.

The key provisions of this Bill increase the penalty The priorities have gone badly wrong. The for culpable driving causing death to IS years and community's attitudes towards grossly negligent the penalty for dangerous driving to 2 years. There is driving - especially drunken driving - have unambiguous evidence that there has been a major hardened significantly since section 318 was inserted reduction in the road toll over the past two decades. into the Crimes Act to remedy the reluctance of A number of factors are responsible for this. Vehicle juries to convict drivers of manslaughter. In part that standards have improved and roads are better. More attitudinal change can be measured by the change in effective penalties, improved enforcement and a driver behaviour brought about by the government's range of education campaigns aimed at bringing drink driving and speed kills campaigns. In part it home the road safety message have generally can be measured in responses to a survey improved the level of responsibility among road commissioned by the Victorian Law Reform users. In particular, the community clearly takes Commission that showed a more punitive response road safety more seriously than it did 20 years ago towards grossly negligent driving than gross and is now prepared to take a more severe view of negligence in the handling of firearms. CRIMES (CULPABLE DRIVING) BILL

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The conunission proposed a drama tic restructuring come to mean conscious advertence by the of the offences of culpable driving causing death and defendant to the risk he or she is taking. As the dangerous driving in an attempt to establish a scale Victorian Law Reform Commission concluded, this of culpability which would address the concern of concept is out of place in what is essentially a the community that there should be some penalty negligence offence. available where death results from driving that is substantially negligent but which would fall short of People who take advertent risks should be dealt manslaughter. However, the Director of Public with under the general Crimes Act provisions Prosecutions and the judges of the County Court relating to reckless endangerment. However they have expressed serious concern that the proposal would also be liable for dangerous driving under an would produce lengthy legal argument and could be amended section 64. The Bill therefore removes the confusing to juries. At the same time Victoria Police reference to recklessness and by so doing makes it strongly opposed the recommendation to remove clear that the level of fault required for dangerous provisions relating to driving under the influence of driving is to be approached in the same way as the alcohol or a drug - section 318(2)(c) and (d) of the New South Wales Court of Appeal approached it. Crimes Act - from the present offence. That is, dangerous driving under section 64 involves a substantial degree of negligence, but this is less In recognition of these concerns, the government has than gross negligence under section 318. Careless decided to retain the existing offence but to increase driving involves a lower degree of negligence again. the maximum penalty to 15 years, the same penalty as for manslaughter. Section 318(2)(a) and (b) of the Thus by amending section 318(6) and removing the Crimes Act is based substantially on the definitions word "recklessly" from section 64, the Bill clarifies of reckless murder and gross negligent the relationship between culpable driving causing manslaughter. Drivers who meet that level of death and dangerous driving. Thus it will be culpability should be subject to the same maximum possible to charge a driver who has been acquitted penalty as that for manslaughter. However this of culpable driving causing death with dangerous change alone means that if a person is acquitted of driving on the basis that although the degree of culpable driving because the jury is not satisfied that culpability is less than that required for culpable the standard of driving was not so poor as to driving under section 318 of the Crimes Act it is amount to gross negligence, there is no lesser charge substantial enough to warrant a conviction for to fall back on. For that reason, the Bill repeals the dangerous driving under section 64 of the Road provision in section 318(6) that prevents a person Safety Act. who has been tried and acquitted for culpable driving from being subsequently proceeded against The Bill makes two further amendments to section for the summary offence of dangerous driving. That 64 of the Road Safety Act. Firstly, it combines provision was included in section 318 because it was offences relating to off-road vehicles and offences considered unjust that a defendant who had committed on a highway into one proviSion. There is undergone prosecution for culpable driving should no sense in maintaining the distinction; dangerous remain exposed to prosecution for other driving driving should be discouraged wherever it occurs. offences that differ from culpable driving only by Secondly, it increases the maximum penalty from reason of the fact that no death is charged. three months to two years in recognition of the potential harm involved in the offence. However this rationale no longer applies. As the discussion of a difficult line of authorities in These changes address concerns expressed about the Vickery's Motor and Traffic Law concludes, the gap between culpable driving causing death and structure and level of penalties attached to the dangerous driving. This Bill further demonstrates various negligent driving offences in the Crimes Act the government's commitment to effective and the Road Safety Act establish varying degrees of legislation aimed at reducing road fatality and road culpability. Highly persuasive authority for this trauma. proposition exists in the unanimous decision of the New South Wales Court of Criminal Appeal case of I commend the Bill to the House. Buttsworth (1983), 1 NSWLR 658, on provisions which substantially parallel section 64 of the Debated adjourned for Hon. J. V. C. GUEST Victorian Road Safety Act. However the New South (Monash) on motion of Hon. R. S. de Fegely. Wales provision does not include the term "recklessly" which in the general criminal law has Debate adjourned until next day. NA TIONAL TENNIS CENTRE (AMENDMENT) BILL

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NATIONAL TENNIS CENTRE centre $12 million a year for the next 12 years - a (AMENDMENT) BILL total of $144 million - to gradually repay the loans.

Second reading We could also criticise the government because initially it promised that the Flinders parkland Debate resumed from 7 April; motion of would be replaced almost immediately with other Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for parkland. However it took some time before the Consumer Affairs). Swan Street Army depot was reclaimed to replace the lost parkland. Hon. J. G. MILES (Templestowe) - The opposition will support the National Tennis Centre I pay tribute to the various people who were (Amendment) Bill. The Bill includes a provision responsible for the building of the National Tennis which allows regulations made under section 22 of Centre: Brian Tobin, the former president of Tennis the National Tennis Centre Act to be disallowed in Australia; my friend Colin McDonald, a former whole or in part by the resolution of either House of executive director; Geoff Pollard; and the current Parliament in accordance with the requirements of president John Fraser - brother of Neil Fraser, section 6(2) of the Subordinate Legislation Act 1962. Davis Cup captain - who have done a tremendous amount of work. Over many years they and many The National Tennis Centre has had a controversial others have played a part. Of course the former history. The coalition agrees that it has been a great Premier, Mr Cain, and the Minister for Sport and success. It is one of the landmarks for tourists who Recreation, Neil Trezise also played important roles visit Australia, Victoria and Melbourne. Credit must in the building of the centre. be given to the Cain Labor government for building this great edifice near the Melbourne Cricket The Bill amends the National Tennis Centre Act. It Ground. tidies up regulations dealing with hawkers who have licences to sell products around the centre. It If the National Tennis Centre had not been built also provides for powers of removal of people who Australia would have lost its Grand Slam are behaving badly in the environs of the centre. The tournament status and Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club government should have been aware that such would not now be used only by its members and for regulations were necessary, and they should have smaller tennis tournaments. Criticisms have been been incorporated in the original legislation. Similar made about the centre. Although I have praised the regulations are in place just across the walkway at government for its initiative I point out the the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) to deal with government overestimated the centre's earning this sort of behaviour. People may not sell goods in capacity and it undertook to guarantee loans to the the vicinity of the National Tennis Centre if they do extent that, with high interest rates, $17 million must not have a licence. I think this is reasonable. If be paid each year on the loans. The National Tennis someone pays a good solid franchise for the right to Centre makes approximately $5 million a year, so sell T-shirts, for example, at the cricket or the tennis, there is still a deficit of approximately $12 million a that person alone should have the right to do so year. rather than people who have paid no money and who have no franchise and therefore have no right I emphasise that the centre is a success story. With to hawk their goods. Until this Bill is passed there all its operations, not only the Australian Open, for are no regulations in the Act to control illegal which it is best known, but also entertainment hawking as there are in the regulations controlling functions, such as the Neil Diamond concert tOnight, the footbridge across to the MCG. which will be attended by many people, court hire, and top-line basketball games, the centre is making Also, there are no regulations suffiCiently tight to approximately $5 million a year. But there is still the control misbehaviour. It is difficult to control brawls problem of the repayment of the loan. that break out because of the lack of regulation in the Act. These are two small but important aspects of With hindsight it is easy to say the government, in the Bill. There must be incorporated into the Act a cooperation with the opposition, should not have set of regulations to cope not only with illegal been overly optimistic about the amount of money hawking but also to protect patrons from injury or the centre would make. If it had not done so we nuisance. would not be spending $12 million year to repay the loans. The government has agreed to grant the PUBLIC ACCOUNT (FURTHER AMENDMENT) BILL

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The Bill amends the regulation-making powers to framework of strong, accountable financial take account of these matters. The Bill also provides leadership as promised in the government's June the power to impose penalties and to remove any 1991 economic statement. Existing financial person for failure to comply with the regulations. All legislation can no longer adequately deal with the the Bill does is bring the National Tennis Centre, one financial management requirements of the 1990s. of Victoria's great sporting landmarks, into line with Control features embodied in current legislative the MCG where there are regulations to control provisions are increasingly inappropriate to modem illegal hawking and unruly behaviour. accounting systems and will become even less relevant with the extension of new technolOgies such Of course, with the disallowance regulation the as electronic data interchange. opposition wishes to state that it has pleasure in supporting the legislation. The proposed amendments provide a framework for overall financial management and control and at the Motion agreed to. same time ensure that departmental management retains relevant and effective controls. Read second time. The Bill provides for the receipt, payment and Third reading banking of public moneys and the recording of public resources. In addition, the Bill provides for Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for appropriations in respect of swap contracts and for Consumer Affairs) - By leave, I move: annotated appropriations. Those proposals formed part of the Public Account (Amendment) Bill 1991, That this Bill be now read a third time. which was rejected in the Legislative Council. Those provisions are essential elements in future financial I wish to thank the opposition for supporting the management initiatives to ensure that Victoria Bill. It is an important initiative. remains in the forefront of financial reform and financial practice in Australia. Motion agreed to. Honourable members should note that provision is Read third time. specifically made in Federal legislation for the Commonwealth Treasurer to enter into swaps or PUBLIC ACCOUNT (FURTHER similar financial arrangements. Some other States AMENDMENT) BILL have centralised debt management and thereby conduct interest swaps outside the Consolidated Second reading Fund. Such capability is basic to active management of public debt balances to minimise interest costs. For Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for Consumer Affairs), Hon. C. J. Hogg (Minister for In relation to annotated appropriations the Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs) - I government proposes that: details of the receipts for move: which there are to be counterpart appropriations, specified by type and amount, will be included in an That this Bill be now read a second time. explanatory table in the Budget Papers; and resource agreements, specifying objectives, inputs and The Bill to amend the Public Account Act 1958 outputs, between the Minister for Finance and the complements the Audit (Amendment) Bill by Minister administering the administrative unit will transferring the machinery provisions, including be introduced. those for receipts, payments and banking, from the Audit Act to the Public Account Act. It also Annotated appropriations have been in place in the introduces into the Public Account Act a number of Commonwealth for a number of years and have new concepts which are regarded by the been introduced in New South Wales and government as highly desirable for better Queensland from 1 July 1991. With this facility, management of annual budgets and improved Victorian departmental managers will have a financial planning and overall management. similarly enhanced ability to adjust resources to requirements with no diminution in accountability. The proposed amendments demonstrate the It will also provide an added incentive for government's commitment to providing the departments to benefit from management efficiency. PUBLIC ACCOUNT (FURTHER AMENDMENT) BILL

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The Bill provides for the public ledger to be the One significant matter addressed by the Economic cornerstone of the recording of the financial and Budget Review Committee (EBRC) concerned transactions and balances of the State, and allows for the responsibilities of govenunent managers. The the nature of the transactions to be recorded and committee then observed that: classified on bases determined by the Minister. Importantly, this provision will allow for the ... there is no reference in the Audit Act 1958 to any eventual recording of accounting information on an responsibilities of chief administrators for financial accrual basis - as is being adopted by other management or management generally. govenunents in Australia and overseas - and facilitate the periodic presentation of the State's The Bill provides for an accountable officer or balance sheet. accountable authority for each unit to which the Act applies, together with a chief finance and accounting The Auditor-General, with his agreement, will be officer. The Bill outlines their main responsibilities removed from the Governor's warrant process, with including the maintenance of accounting systems, the form of warrant continuing unchanged as a and accounting and other financial information. schedule to the Public Account Act. The warrant is These provisions should strengthen the chain of required in accordance with the Constitution Act accountability to Ministers and will implement a 1975 prior to the expenditure of moneys from the recommendation of the EBRC. Consolidated Fund. The form of the warrant guarantees the Governor's constitutional role in Again to encourage the matching of resources to releasing funds to the govenunent. needs, departmental managers are to be given a degree of flexibility to adjust spending by varying When the Bill is enacted it will be the Minister who the total allocation available in a year. will be required to table and explain the annual finance statement rather than the Auditor-General. The Bill provides, subject to the approval of the The finance statement must be given to the Minister, for units to borrow from future Auditor-General on or before 30 September for audit appropriations. Such action is dependent on the and must be tabled by the Minister on or before 15 expenditure being deemed by the Minister to be October. prudent, being incurred in the current year, producing benefits which will flow in future, and The form and content of the finance statement are to amounting in total to no more than one half of 1 per be determined by the Minister. This will allow an cent of the annual appropriation for that year. opportunity to reduce duplication in information Individual administrative units will be able to currently being provided to Parliament. borrow up to 3 per cent of the amount appropriated Departmental annual reports will contain all details in the annual appropriation for that year. of departmental financial transactions and operations, with the finance statement appearing as Administrative procedures already allow a modest a summary level report similar to the aggregate percentage of appropriations to be carried forward financial statement prepared by the Commonwealth as a first charge against appropriations for the Minister for Finance. following year - giving flexibility in the other direction and reducing end-of-year spending surge. The Bill consolidates the existing sections 15 and 18 relating to advances from the public account, and The Auditor-General supports the provision of limits the advance to the Minister to a fixed greater flexibility in appropriation management as percentage of the Budget rather than to a fixed dollar an excellent initiative. amount. It also removes antiquated references such as that to payment for the procurement of coal from Under the Bill the Minister will have power to issue Queensland. directions - for example, to establish the basis for accounting and recording in the public account. This The Bill provides for powers of the Minister to be power will be used to develop a set of instructions delegated. Such a provision is seen as essential with which will govern accounting and recording the ever-increasing complexity of govenunent processes in agencies and establish requirements for operations, and has been a subject of uncertainties in accountability . the past. It does not diminish the ultimate responsibility of the Minister. A number of minor consequential amendments will be required to other legislation. Honourable PORT OF MELBOURNE AUTHORITY (AMENDMENT) BILL

Wednesday, 29 Apri11992 COUNCIL 661 members will agree that these reforms are essential. authority's lack of power under its Act to delegate The Auditor-General also agrees and supports the to its officers administrative functions such as the proposals. The government views the passage of this issuing of pennits and approvals. This Bill and the Audit (Amendment) Bill 1991 as integral amendment is consistent with current legislative components of the continuing modernisation of drafting standards and enables the physical Victoria's financial administration. administration of the authority's regulations. 3. The Bill seeks to increase the level of penalties I commend the Bill to the House. that may be imposed for breaches of the authority's regulations. The penalties provided Debate adjourned on motion of under the Port of Melbourne Act 1958 for breach Hon. R. M. HALLAM (Western). of regulations concerning the transport, handling and storage of dangerous substances have not Debate adjourned until next day. been amended since 1983. The Bill seeks to bring the Port of Melbourne Authority Act 1958 into PORT OF MELBOURNE AUTHORITY line with the Dangerous Goods Act 1985 and (AMENDMENT) BILL regulations made thereunder, by increasing the maximum level of penalty to be applied. Given Second reading that breaches of these regulations may endanger the welfare of the community and the safety of For Hon. D. R. WHITE (Minister for property and the environment, an increase in the Manufacturing and Industry Development), maximum penalty is considered necessary so as Hon. C. J. Hogg (Minister for Ethnic, Municipal and to ensure compliance with the regulations. Community Affairs) -I move:

That this Bill be now read a second time. The Bill is specifically designed to confer on the authority more modem regulation-making powers The object of this Bill is to modernise the consistent with current legislative drafting standards. regulation-making powers of the Port of Melbourne Authority and to increase the penalties that may be I commend the Bill to the House. imposed for breaches of the authority's regulations. Debate adjourned for Hon. W. R. BAXTER (North The Bill provides for a number of administrative Eastern) on motion of Hon. R. S. de Fegely. changes to the Port of Melbourne AuthOrity Act 1958. These changes are required in order to enable Debate adjourned until next day. the authority to make effective regulations. The main amendments are as follows: AUDIT (AMENDMENT) BILL (No. 2)

Second reading 1. The Bill seeks to enable the authority to incorporate by reference in its regulations For Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for materials such as international and Australian Consumer Affairs), Hon. C. J. Hogg (Minister for codes of practice and standards. The Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs) - 1 incorporation of material in regulations other move: than Victorian Acts and regulations is prohibited under section 32 of the Interpretation of That this Bill be now read a second time. Legislation Act 1984, unless the Act under which the regulations are made specifically empowers This Bill and the Public Account (Further such incorporation. This amendment will enable, Amendment) Bill 1991 represent the core financial for example, the making of the Port of Melbourne legislation which guides the State's operations. Authority (Transport, Storage and Handling of Dangerous Goods) Regulations 1992 with the The Audit (Amendment) Bill and Public Account inclusion of references to internationally and (Further Amendment) Bill modernise Victoria's nationally applied rules for the handling of financial administration. Accounting and audit are dangerous substances. areas of public administration which in the past 2. The deficiencies in the authority's have drawn little attention, and where reform has regulation-making powers are highlighted by the been intermittent and infrequent. AUDIT (AMENDMENT) BILL (No. 2)

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Last year's amendments to the Audit Act, to clarify a summary of all public money coming into their the Auditor-General's power to conduct value for possession or control in the previous month. The Bill money audits, have been the first really substantive will now allow today'S electronic data interchange change to that Act since it was first enacted in 1859. technology to be used for instant revenue returns. Nor will the Auditor-General any longer need to Aside from the merging in 1970 of the consolidated transmit to the Minister the name of any collector of revenue fund and loan fund to constitute a single imposts failing to send the revenue summary. The Consolidated Fund, there has been no Significant Act does not say what the Minister should then do change either to the Public Account Act or its·bases with these names. of reporting since its 1951 enactment. It still remains a cash-based fund accounting system, rooted in The Bill also relieves the Minister of the burden of practice of stewardship reporting that traces back to sending to the Auditor-General on every day on the Westminster Parliament of 1688. which public offices are open all manner of accounting records and vouchers, and the Although we still value these traditions, it is time Auditor-General of the burden of examining these. our legislation moved on from the green eye-shade Modern, comprehensive auditing methods will now era to the contemporary world of electronic be freely applicable. information management and enabled the adoption of modern accounting and audit practice. The changes now being introduced give the Audit Act a clear focus, which is to provide for: The report of the Economic and Budget Review Committee on improving government management and accountability and the work of the Public an Auditor-General; Accounts and Expenditure Review Committee a Deputy Auditor-General; provide the background for these Bills. The the audit function; and government is confident that these Bills also meet the reporting function arising from audit. contemporary standards of public accounting and auditing as outlined and advocated by the Auditor-General in his reports to Parliament. They The amendments in no manner or form interfere are in line with initiatives taken by the with the important "performance audit" provisions Commonwealth and other States to improve public passed in the Audit (Amendment) Bill 1990. These financial management and accountability. remain in place.

In introducing Bills to amend the Audit Act and the The Bill provides for a fixed term of appointment for Public Account Act the government is mindful of the the Auditor-General of seven years. It neither view of the Economic and Budget Review interferes with the Auditor-General's independence Committee that: nor the process for removal from office as set out in existing legislation. There is no change either to The Audit Act is misnamed. Apart from providing for arrangements for setting the Auditor-General's the role of the Auditor-General as the external auditor salary, which will continue to be specially of the State government and its organisations, it covers appropriated. matters of financial administration. For example, the Act includes provisions governing the collection and The financial statements of the Victorian payment of public moneys and rules concerning the Auditor-General's office, which continue to be protection of public property. Its scope therefore goes subject to the provisions of the Annual Reporting beyond audit matters. Act, will be audited by an independent external auditor who will express an opinion on the financial The amendments being introduced remove these statements of the office. machinery proviSions from the Audit Act, simplify and restate them in modern terms, and place them in The annual "finance" statement will in future be the Public Account Act where they properly belong. prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Public Account Act, as amended, and the Other archaic provisions found in both the 1859 and Auditor-General will form an audit opinion on the 1958 Audit Acts are removed entirely. No longer, for statement in terms of Australian auditing standards. example, must collectors of imposts send by post No longer will the Auditor-General be required to before the tenth of the month to the Auditor-General "explain" the "finance" statement. That will become VICTORIAN SUPPLY SERVICE BILL

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the responsibility, as it should be, of the Minister or professional circles in recent years on standards for Ministers responsible for preparing the statement. public sector accounting and reporting. This does not, however, preclude the Auditor-General from reporting in the normal way I commend the Bill to the house. on matters relating to the operations of the Public Account. Debate adjourned on motion of Hon. R. M. HALLAM (Western). The power of the Auditor-General under section 36 of the Audit Act 1958 to surcharge an officer with Debate adjourned until next day. any deficiencies and loss of moneys, or when an officer fails to properly account for such moneys, is VICTORIAN SUPPLY SERVICE BILL to be removed. The Auditor-General has provided the following comments on these amendments: Second reading

I wish to confirm that my preferred option in relation to For Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for the antiquated provisions contained in the current Consumer Affairs), Hon. C. J. Hogg (Minister for audit legislation in relation to disallowance, Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs) - I show-cause and surcharge is for those provisions to be move: removed. In addition, I do not see a need for them in other legislation, e.g. the Public Account Act. That this Bill be now read a second time.

There are a number of precedents for this in terms of This Bill is to be considered in conjunction with Bills recent updates to State legislation and similar to amend the Audit Act 1958 and the Public Account provisions are not induded in Commonwealth Act 1958. legislation. Currently regulations under the Audit Act 1958 It is my view that the proposed legislative change to regulate supply in the inner Budget sector but, as the have the Auditor-General provide an opinion on the Audit Act amendments quite rightly limit the Audit finance statement will ensure all matters of a material Act to the audit function, it is appropriate for supply nature are commented upon either in that opinion issues to stand alone. and/or subsequently in the Auditor-General's report to Parliament. This Bill establishes a statutory authority to overSight the provision of supplies and services to The role of the Auditor-General in the issue of the Victorian public sector. The board of the warrants - which are required, in terms of section authority will undertake the role of the tender board 93 of the Constitution Act, prior to expenditure from in accepting contracts on behalf of government. the Consolidated Fund - has been removed. As identified by a working party established by the Once Parliament has authorised an appropriation, Treasurer, there is an increasing recognition that whether it be a special or annual appropriation, that properly harnessed government buying power and authorisation should be the ultimate authority. efficient supply arrangements will deliver the There is no need for the Auditor-General or any opportunity for substantial savings to government other person to certify that the money is legally and will provide a valuable instrument to assist in available to be spent. The Governor, in his the development and support of industry. The constitutional role, will still be involved in the Victorian Supply Service will enhance these process. opportunities.

This change has the full support of the The Bill further provides for the commercial Auditor-General and is consistent with legislation operations of the Treasury - for example, courier elsewhere. services, canteens and printing and publishing - to be managed by the new authority. One outcome of The government has had the benefit of consultation this will be that these commercial services will move with the accounting bodies in preparing the "off-budget" except for community services significant changes to financial legislation in this Bill obligations, which will continue to be funded by and in the concurrent Public Account Bill and has appropriation. been assisted also by the widespread debate in ADJOURNMENT

664 COUNCIL Wednesday, 29 April 1992

The separation of the commercial services activities (Amendment) Bills as collectively they lay the from the budgetary control and accountability foundation for public sector financial management, activities of the Treasury is seen to be appropriate supply management and the audit of related because it better separates the centralised financial transactions and efficiency and effectiveness of overSight role of the Ministry from the service operations. provision role. lbis will allow each group to focus more clearly on its respective responsibilities. I commend the Bill to the House.

The opportunity to have the Victorian Supply Debate adjourned for Hon. R. M. HALLAM Service responsible for the management and control (Western) on motion of Hon. P. R. Hall. of the commercial operations of the Treasury will assist in improving its accountabilities by: Debate adjourned until next day.

ADJOURNMENT separate reporting in a segmented format on each business unit, which will assist in business Hon. C. J. HOGG (Minister for Ethnic, Municipal decisions; and and Community Affairs) - I move: requiring the introduction of a commercial form of accounting to support those decisions. That the Council, at its rising, adjourn until Tuesday, 5 May, at 3 p.m. Honourable members would agree that it is vital that all government operations should be run in the Motion agreed to. most efficient and effective manner. As supply is the second largest expenditure of government after House adjourned 3.57 p.m. until Tuesday, 5 May. salaries and wages, the establishment of the Victorian Supply Service will greatly assist in achieving opportunities for substantial savings.

It is important that this Bill be considered in conjunction with the Audit and Public Account QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Tuesday, 5 May 1992 COUNCIL 665

Tuesday, 5 May 1992 oppOSition, as has been declared in the document circulated by the honourable member for Brighton in another place.

In that document Mr Stockdale makes it clear that The PRESIDENT (Hon. A. J. Hunt) took the chair the opposition sees its model of corporatisation as at 3.3 p.m. and read the prayer. one that leads to privatisation. Our policy pOSition is to reform the government business enterprises and put them on a sound footing, which will make them QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE efficient and effective while at the same time making them accountable to Parliament, the government and the community. PRIVATISATION OF GOVERNMENT UTILITIES Hon. W. R. BAXTER (North Eastern) -I refer the Minister assisting the Minister for Hon. M. A. BIRRELL (East Yarra) - In view of Manufacturing and Industry Development with his failure today to convince his caucus colleagues to responsibility for Corporatisation to the decision on support his corporatisation proposals for corporatisation made last Friday by the Australian government business enterprises, will the Minister Labor Party (ALP) administrative committee, which assisting the Minister for Manufacturing and states among other things: Industry Development with responsibility for Corporatisation now guarantee to the House that he The issue has now become so serious that the will introduce a Bill on corporatisation this sessional continuation of the current government program will period? alienate the Labor movement and ensure the government's loss at the next State election. Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for In light of the Minister's answer to Mr Birrell, is it Consumer Affairs) -The premise of Mr Birrell's question is incorrect. Caucus endorsed the approach not a fact that the administrative committee of the taken and the decisions made by Cabinet in dealing ALP has won and that the Minister's proposals are nothing more than a Clayton's corporatisation? with the whole reform process for government trading enterprises. That process will continue both in terms of the overall reform package, which is the Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for responsibility of the Treasurer, and of a continuation Consumer Affairs) -The opposition quotes from of the process of preparing a public authority's the press. Members of the opposition have not had any discussions with the trade union movement or reform Bill to be introduced for the consideration of seen any of the resolutions put up by the trade union Parliament. movement. Discussions will take place with the In the course of the preparation of the Bill there will trade union movement about the model the be consultations with the trade union movement government will propose and the Bill it will introduce to reform public authorities. and government trading enterprises. Those consultations, which have commenced and are continuing, are extremely positive with respect to The Bill will incorporate a model that will secure the the whole reform process, including the proposed efficiency and effectiveness of government business Bill. The principles the government has been enterprises and ensure that their operations are on a developing are clearly understood and will be sound, business-like footing. At the same time it will discussed with the community, the trade union ensure that GBEs are still subject to the appropriate accountability: they should be held responsible for movement and government trading enterprises in the development of a Bill that can be presented to meeting targets that might be negotiated in business plans and they should be accountable for Parliament. It is important, however, to understand appropriate levels of service what we will not be doing in that Bill: we will not be and keeping prices at a privatising our government business enterprises level below increases in the consumer price index so that consumers may benefit from any efficiencies (GBEs). That has been made perfectly clear by the Premier and others. that might flow from the proposed reforms.

The government is not introducing corporatisation All those factors are part of the reform package the government will put up, which is designed to as a means to privatisation, which is the policy of the QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

666 COUNCIL Tuesday, 5 May 1992 increase the efficiency, effectiveness and heavily represented than Victoria; so one cannot say accountability of GBEs. that our offices are over-resourced.

Honourable members interjecting. The government is also in agreement with other State governments that its representations on behalf Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS -If the opposition of business communities wishing to export to the does not concur with that model, but prefers to give Asian region should be undertaken in conjunction government business enterprises carte blanche to do with AUSTRADE, as is the case in other parts of the what they like it should say so. world.

Honourable members interjecting. The Office of Trade and Investment, headed by lan Ferris as Chairman, with Michael Roux as Chief Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - I have made Executive, is responsible for coordinating the perfectly clear the fundamental principles of the activities of officers who are clearly concentrating government's model: to secure increased efficiency their activities in particular areas. One such area is and greater effectiveness for GBEs; and to secure a our fifth largest trading partner, Taiwan, about relationship whereby GBEs present appropriate which more than 87 Victorian companies have been business plans in which they set out targets that will given general trade advice and assistance, and there be achieved and appropriate accountability have been trade missions to that effect. mechanisms. The opposition's model is set out in a paper written by the honourable member for The government has a responsibility for opening up Brighton in another place, and honourable members economic opportunities in Japan. The most recent opposite should read what it says. has come from a major building developer in Japan who is looking to source building materials from Hon. R. I. Knowles - And your administrative Victoria. Japanese building suppliers are having committee supports it! trouble meeting the growing demand for western-style materials. The Japanese company, Hon. K. M. SMITH (South Eastern) - On a point Arte, is proposing to build a new housing of order, Mr President, the Minister is now debating development consisting of more than 120 dwellings the issue and I ask you to bring him back to the in the new town area of Kuwana City near Nagoya. question. Some 27 Victorian companies met today with a view The PRESIDENT - Order! When the Minister to providing the Japanese market with access to moved from answering the question to allegedly western-style materials such as brick pavers, iron contrasting the policy of the opposition he was, of lace work and other materials. course, moving into the field of debating the question. Therefore, I uphold the point of order. I welcome the work of the Office of Trade and Investment in coordinating and bringing to fruition EXPORTS TO ASIA that specific initiative. I say to prospective investors and exporters generally that both the Deparbnent of Hon. R. S. IVES (Eumemmerring) - The Manufacturing and Industry Development and the Minister for Manufacturing and Industry overseas offices can provide a great deal of advice Development is aware of the general agreement on and assistance not only by introducing people to the need for this nation to increase trade with the opportunities in the Pacific Basin but also in Asian region. Will the Minister advise the House assisting with securing major commercial what the government is doing to assist Victorian transactions. That work within the department is industries to trade in the Asian region? going extremely well.

Hon. D. R. WHITE (Minister for Manufacturing PRIVATISATION OF GOVERNMENT and Industry Development) - All State UTILITIES governments have a responsibility to enhance opportunities for businesses exporting to the Asian Hon. HADDON STOREY (East Yarra) - In view region. Honourable members would be aware that of his answers on corporatisation earlier today will we have offices in both Japan and Hong Kong. Most the Minister assisting the Minister for State governments are represented in various parts Manufacturing and Industry Development with of Asia, with some State governments being more QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Tuesday, 5 May 1992 COUNCIL 667 responsibility for Corporatisation introduce a Bill on existed - and you will recall this debate, corporatisation this sessional period? Mr President, which was in 1981 - the then Premier of Victoria, Mr Lindsay Thompson, organised and Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for was present at a meeting of the heads of statutory Consumer Affairs) - As I said earlier it is the authorities in this building to tell the then shadow government's intention to introduce a Bill as soon as Treasurer, Rob Jolly, that no such funds were possible. available and that no such funds existed.

Hon. Haddon Storey - This session! When the Labor Party came into office it introduced the public authority contribution, despite the Hon. Rosemary Varty - It doesn't answer the opposition of the Liberal Party, on the basis that it question! was well recognised that the gas contract entered into in 1968 or thereabouts for the sale of gas at Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - There are 28 cents a therm was well under world prices. obviously a range of issues that relate to -- As Esso-BHP knows, that contract was entered into Hon. Robert Lawson - You can't do it next year, as a consequence of negotiations by the then you won't be here! chairman, Mr Neil Smith, and the prices in that contract compare with gas prices both in 1982 and Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - The government 1992 of more than $2 a therm. The payment from expects to introduce a Bill this sessional period, producers in gas contracts today is well in excess of subject to overcoming issues of drafting and the $2 a therm. In 1982 a surplus profit and reserve were workload of Parliamentary CowlSel. The proposed being generated by the Gas and Fuel Corporation. legislation will be designed to reform the authorities. Because of a lack of effort by the then government, The Department of Treasury is working on a range the corporation, as the main shareholder, did not get of questions, so there is a considerable process access to the surplus funds. involved in finalising all components of the proposed Bill. The government expects a Bill to be The amazing situation now exists that, on the introduced this sessional period and, subject to what grounds that it wants access to the source of revenue I have said, that will occur. from the public authority contribution at some stage in the future, the opposition does not want anyone GAS AND FUEL CORPORATION to tamper with it, even though it opposed the contribution's coming into existence. Hon. R. M. HALL AM (Western) - I ask the Minister for Manufacturing and Industry It is clear that the public authority contribution came Development: is it a fact tha t the government is into existence as a result of this government's negotiating with the Gas and Fuel Corporation of endeavours. The future endeavours of the Gas and Victoria to factor the public authority contribution Fuel Corporation will be a consequence of the obligation of the corporation? deliberations of this government, which will consider the merits of any proposal put to it by the Is it also a fact that such an arrangement would gain corporation.The current public authority an immediate $1.5 billion for this government at the contribution of $300 million is a declining revenue expense of the incoming government for the next source as part of the demarket contract which runs five years? out in 2004. The contribution will not be maintained throughout the 1990s. Can the Minister state categorically that the government is not intending such a sabotage of the I also make it clear that the government would not State's finances? be a party to a proposal that did not have the support of the producers. The initiative for any Hon. D. R. WHITE (Minister for Manufacturing decision to remove the public authority contribution and Industry Development) - I remind Mr Hallam, is a consequence of -- since he asks a question about the public authority contribution, that it was an initiative of the Cain Honourable members interjecting. Labor government under the former Treasurer, Rob Jolly. I also remind Mr Hallam that at the time Hon. D. R. WHITE - It is and has been the view Parliament was debating whether the resources of the producers that the public authority QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

668 COUNCIL Tuesday, 5 May 1992 contribution should not remain in existence, and it is care for many years. They have been involved in the the view of the government that it should take into Werribee region and provide an excellent hospice account the views of the producers. Mr Hallam has program based in Sunshine. They operate the Mercy asked whether the government wants the public Private Hospital, have public beds in the Mercy authority contribution to be prepaid, which would Hospital and are involved in the operation of St amount to full payment and settlement of both the Joseph's Nursing Home in Geelong. Therefore, they existing and continuing obligation in respect of the are well placed to provide appropriate links not only contribution. As with many policy issues, that view with their property in East Melbourne but also with has been canvassed and expressed by both the their other community-based services in the western producers and the Gas and Fuel Corporation. area.

I also advise the House that any initiative with Services proposed for the new hospital will include respect to the prepayment of the public authority general medicine and surgery, obstetrics and contribution would have to be the subject of gynaecology and neonatal care. Part of the reason legislation. That is well known and understood. If the Sisters of Mercy were selected to be the Mr Hallam had any understanding of the history appropriate operator was their excellent network in and origins of the tax base, he would understand the region as well as the expertise they will be able that prepayment of the public authority contribution to draw on from their East Melbourne site. would have to be the subject of legislation. That is known and understood by the producers; it is The project developing at Werribee is a great known and understood by the Gas and Fuel example of all the government has spoken about on Corporation; and it is known and understood by the partnerships. In the near future we will be government. announcing the private sector developer. We have an extremely well-respected operator who has many It is my view that the government will not proceed years of experience in the operation of public with the proposal in the life of this Parliament. It is hospitals. Of course, all that will be done in full not something the government needs to proceed cooperation with the local community. with, or will proceed with, in the formulation of the 1992-93 Budget. The final benefit of the proposal is the number of jobs that will be created: more than 800 direct and PROPOSED WERRIBEE HOSPITAL indirect jobs, many of them being local. No-one at the existing Werribee Hospital will lose his or her job Hon. LICIA KOKOCINSKI (Melbourne West) - and no-one at the existing Mercy Hospital site in I preface my question to the Minister for Health by East Melbourne will lose his or her job as a result of saying that the community of Werribee is certainly the development. As I said, we anticipate that pleased about the State government's announcement construction will begin in August and we expect the that a new public hospital will be built at Werribee. hospital to be treating patients within 18 months. Will the Minister advise the House of the progress that has been made on one of the most significant BAYSIDE PROJECT health developments for the western suburbs? I suggest that although it is certainly one of the most Hon. K. M. SMITH (South Eastern) - I refer the Significant developments it is not the most Minister responsible for Ports to the port of significant because what the government did with Melbourne's totally uneconomic lease with the the Sunshine hospital was also a major achievement. Bayside developer, which will allow Station Pier to be leased for $1 a year over the next 50 years, and I Hon. M. A. LYSTER (Minister for Health) - As I ask: what is his latest estimate of the maintenance have recently visited the area I can understand the costs for the pier over the next 50 years? delight of the Werribee community in the knowledge that construction of this hospital will Hon. D. R. WHITE (Minister for Manufacturing commence, it is hoped, in August. and Industry Development) - In answer to a similar question in the House the government The next step of which I want to apprise the House indicated that a contract had been entered into by today is the announcement that the new 127-bed the Port of Melbourne Authority and Sandridge City public hospital will be operated by the Sisters of Development Company Pty Ltd for part of Station Mercy. As most honourable members will be aware, Pier to enhance the Sandridge development. In the Sisters of Mercy have been involved in health response to the shipping and other users of the port QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Tuesday, 5 May 1992 COUNCIL 669 of Melbourne the government indicated that it had a the air. The agreement is the first of its kind in responsibility for the maintenance of Station Pier Australia and is a great step forward. It is certainly a given the contractual arrangements between the Port positive step by the companies to take up their of Melbourne Authority and Sandridge, and that it responsibilities in this area, and I should like to see was waiting to hear from the authority before giving other companies in this State take similar action. consideration to what government support could be Under the agreement the companies will report on provided to the authority for the maintenance of the the way the complex will reduce emissions of those pier. At this stage the authority has not yet compoWlds and will make their monitoring results responded, but when it is received the response will available to the Environment Protection AuthOrity be provided to Mr Smith. and to the public.

TESTING OF IMPORTED FOOD The seven companies have set up a local liaison PRODUCTS committee to work through this excellent process of sharing information on their progress towards the Hon. R. A. BEST (North Western) - I refer the target of reducing by half the emission of volatile Minister for Health to the widespread concern about chemical compoWlds. Last Friday senior the enormous volume of imported food products representatives of the companies presented me with coming into Victoria and the lack of testing of those a copy of the agreement signed by each company. It imports. Given that the National Food Authority is also interesting that cleaner production will be (NFA) was established by the States to police good not only for the environment but also for uniform testing and labelling standards for food business. One way the companies are achieving imports, will the Minister advise the House why the savings is through tighter maintenance programs, NFA has authorised tests on only 17 food products computer controls on valves and various other to date, and will she insist that the NFA Wldertakes features installed on their complicated plant. The a more comprehensive and rigorous testing reduction will occur partly by reducing the loss of program? valuable gases. Savings will be made by the companies because fewer gases will be lost and the Hon. M. A. LYSTER (Minister for Health) - The environment will benefit through fewer gases being creation of the National Food Authority was a sent into the atmosphere. significant step towards at least ensuring that there is some continuity and consistency of the standard In conclusion I offer my congratulations to the and that similar practices and processes are followed Altona Petrochemical Company Ltd, the Australian across the States. Because the NFA is a Federal body Synthetic Rubber Company Ltd, the BF Goodrich I am not familiar with the precise details to which Chemical Company, BASF Australia Ltd, Mr Best referred. I shall seek further advice on the Commercial Polymers Pty Ltd, the Dow Chemical matter and I will be pleased to communicate further (Australia) Ltd and Hoechst Australia Ltd. Another withMrBest. company in the local area, Chemplex Sales (Australia) Pty Ltd, although not part of the CHEMICAL INDUSTRY complex, has also agreed to meet similar reduction targets. Hon. JEAN McLEAN (Boronia) - I ask the Minister for Conservation and Environment: Public accoWltability and environmental because of the disaster of Coode Island and growing responsibility appear to be growing, and we need to public concern about environmental dangers from look to further cooperative exercises with other the chemical industry, the chemical companies at companies to benefit the environment. Altona have recently made a commitment to introduce cleaner production techniques. Will the BURIAL OF FROZEN CORPSES AT Minister report on the development of a volWltary LAKE CORANGAMITE agreement made by those chemical companies? Hon. M. T. TEHAN (Central Highlands) - I ask Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Conservation the Minister for Health whether it is a fact that and Environment) - The volWltary agreement Health Department Victoria's Cemetery Division made by the seven companies that make up the has approved the burial of up to 36 000 snap-frozen Altona Chemical Complex provides that during the corpses placed in plastic bags and buried vertically next five years they will voluntarily reduce by half in land adjacent to Lake Corangamite in western the volatile organic compounds they discharge into Victoria. QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

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Hon. M. A. LYSTER (Minister for Health) - I am Hon. K. M. Smith - Name names! aware of the concern that has been expressed by the local community in regard to this matter, but I am Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - I discussed the not aware of any approvals that have been issued. I issues on two occasions with a delegation from the will look into it because if there have been approvals Trades Hall Council. In addition, the process of they have not come to me. discussions --

PRIVATISATION OF GOVERNMENT Honourable members interjecting. UTILITIES Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - The discussion Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE (Geelong) - I direct a process that has taken place since the preparation of question to the Minister for Consumer Affairs in his the blue book, which outlines the set of principles for capacity as the Minister assisting the Minister for the government, has involved sending copies of the Manufacturing and Industry Development with book to 800 different organisations, including the responsibility for Corporatisation. In reply to my trade union movement. question last Tuesday regarding his consultation with the public sector unions on the government's Hon. R. A. Mackenzie - Did it include the State plans to corporatise or privatise the major public Public Services Federation? You said it did last week. utilities the Minister stated: Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - No I didn't! I have had extensive consultations with the trade union movement. Hon. R. A. Mackenzie - You did; I've got it here. Read your Hansard. I asked, 'With whom?" and the Minister replied: Honourable members interjecting. With the Trades Hall Council and unions interested in the issues. Hon. R. A. Mackenzie - All the unions involved, you said. Will the Minister explain why he misled Parliament? In actual fact he has never discussed the proposals Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - It is clear that with the State Public Services Federation Victoria, Mr Mackenzie does not want to listen to the answer one of the largest unions involved. to his question. The answer to his question is that all trade unions were invited to be part of the process. Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for Consumer Affairs) - It is a bit much for somebody Hon. R. A. Mackenzie - Untrue! That is untrue! who has nothing to do with the trade union movement to come into this Parliament -- Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - All unions were invited to be part of the process, and a Significant Hon. R. A. MACKENZIE (Geelong) - On a point number of them took advantage of the opportunity of order, Mr President, I point out that I have been a to have direct discussions with me. member of the trade union movement for 40 years, and I am still a member. Hon. R. A. Mackenzie - You never invited --

The PRESIDENT - Order! That was a point of Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - If he wishes, I explanation rather than a point of order. shaU provide Mr Mackenzie with a list of those unions. He did not ask me about a specific union; he Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for asked about the trade union movement. I explained Consumer Affairs) - I was about to say that the tohim-- trade union movement is closely associated with the Australian Labor Party. Anyone who understands Hon. R. A. Mackenzie interjected. that would know that someone who has abandoned the Labor Party is not likely to be the highest on a Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - I did not say I trade union list for discussion on issues such as this. had spoken to all trade unions. Don't tell lies! The I discussed these issues with the trade union trade union movement knows one thing: the movement and I have had several meetings with government will be discussing with them whatever representatives from the Trades Hall Council. reforms it intends to bring in -- QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

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Hon. R. A. Mackenzie - You misled the House! shortage of psychiatric staff despite widespread advertiSing and that the Health and Community Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - The discussions Services Union has categorically refused to will continue, based on the well-established countenance the use of any general nursing staff to relationship we have with the trade union open these beds? If so, how does the Minister movement - which does not include scabs! reconcile the government's supposed support for mainstreaming psychiatric services and her YOUTH ACCOMMODATION commendation of this particular union in the House last week? Hon. C. J. KENNEDY (Waverley) - Will the Minister for Ethnic, Municipal and Community Hon. M. A. LYSTER (Minister for Health) - Yes, Affairs inform the House of increases in youth I am aware of the staffing situation at the Yarraman accommodation since the release of the Burdekin psychogeriatric nursing home, the opening of which report in 1989? was attended by a number of members of Parliament, although not of this House. I am pleased Hon. C. J. HOGG (Minister for Ethnic, Municipal that Kingston Centre has assumed responsibility for and Commwlity Affairs) - The government has its management. taken a number of measures since the Burdekin report was released in 1989, many of which I have The shortage of staff is to a large part due to the alUlounced in the House. The government's speed of change taking place in the way psychiatric response emphasised and continues to emphasise services are distributed throughout the metropolitan the importance of service coordination, area. I recall somebody telling me some years ago of concentrating on preventive measures such as the difficulties that were encountered in Geelong mediation by peers and the establishment of a youth when Dax House was first opened. Because there homelessness task force. The govemment has taken had been no previous psychiatric service in that the following action to address the issue and area, it took some time for the Geelong area and Dax provide accommodation for young homeless people. House in particular to recruit appropriately trained staff. Some $8.6 million has been invested in 150 new wlits for youth accommodation; and a further Similarly in the south-eastem region of the $2.2 million has been spent in expanding the youth metropolitan area where there has been a hOUSing program. Since 1989 the government has considerable deficiency in the provision of established 51 youth-specific supported psychiatric and psychogeriatric services we find accommodation assistance program projects there is no ready and available pool of competent (SAAPs), which have the capacity to house up to 500 people on which to draw -- young people at anyone time. The figures for the 1990-91 financial year show that 3328 young people Hon. R. I. Knowles - But there is staff -- used SAAP services. Of those, 51.7 per cent were yOW1g women, 54 per cent were aged between 16 Hon. M. A. LYSTER - This was also and 18 years, and 19 per cent were under the age of encountered in the recruitment processes for the 16. Frankston integrated unit and the Carinya psychogeriatric nursing home in Golf Links Road, Those figures demonstrate the government's Frankston. commitment to alleviating youth homelessness in a practical way, not only through preventive and I am confident that we will be able to complete the supportive measures but also in ways that provide recruitment of staff for the Yarraman nursing home yow1g people with roofs over their heads where, in the near future. unfortunately, that is necessary. Hon. R. I. Knowles - Rubbish, absolute rubbish! YARRAMAN PSYCHOGERIATRIC NURSING HOME Hon. M. A. LYSTER - Certainly my discussions with the unit manager there gave me confidence in Hon. R. I. KNOWLES (Ballarat) - Is the Minister the capacity of that unit to be fully staffed so that we for Health aware that the Yarraman psychogeriatric can ensure that those 10 beds are occupied as soon nursing home set up under the auspices of the as possible. Kingston Centre has 10 empty beds because of the PAPERS

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WOMEN IN SMALL BUSINESS Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - Even with the many barriers that I have mentioned, women have Hon. lOAN COXSEDGE (Melbourne West) - I proven to be highly successful in their businesses. direct my question to the Minister for Small Business and I ask him to inform the House of the outcome of Hon. Robert Lawson - How patronising. the recent women's business initiatives forum. Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - That is Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for Small demonstrated -- Business) - Recently I was most pleased to open an extremely successful forum entitled 'Women in Hon. M. A. Birrell - Despite everything! Small Business. A Powerful Resource" that was held in Melbourne. The forum was organised with the Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - You don't have Small Business Development Corporation and many to suffer the discrimination, mate. women involved in small business attended. In fact it was rather pleasing for a change for me to be Hon. M. A. Birrell - I do -- addressing a business forum predominantly made up of women because, as people who have had to Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - Their success is address business groups would know, they tend to demonstrated by their higher survival rates in be dominated by men. business and by their higher profitability. We have analysed the situation and have seen that women Women are playing an extremely important role in who go into business have a higher survival rate business and that is borne out by the fact that they than their male counterparts. It is important to note comprise the fastest growing sector in the small that women tend to take less risks than men; business area, increasing at something like twice the perhaps this is a virtue that some men in business rate of their male counterparts. It is currently could adopt. estimated in Victoria that 66 000 small businesses, approximately one-third of all small businesses, are In the small business area we have tried to address owned or operated by women. some of these issues through the establishment of a women's business initiative forum and the women's However, women still come up against significant business assistance program, both being initiatives barriers and suffer attitudes that should be attitudes of this government. We have also provided funding of the past. In particular there is a perception that through the Victorian women's trust for enterprise women are unable to manage their finances as well connection, a business development service as men or that -- specifically designed for women who may be interested in self-employment. Hon. K. M. Smith - What are you saying? I am pleased that will be in Hansard! Many of the issues raised at the seminar are already being addressed by my department, induding the Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - It is rather need to cut red tape to improve services and to interesting that there is a barrage of interjections streamline access to finances for women and from the men opposite. businesses generally in our community.

Honourable members interjecting. PAPERS

Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS - It is an Laid on table by Clerk: important issue relating to men. Maybe it is some of those attitudes that women in this forum were Council of Adult Education - Report and financial concerned about, that is, the aggressive way in statements for the year 1991. which men quite often interact in the business community and the fact that in key financial areas Law Reform Commission - Report on Death Caused women are often not given the same degree of by Dangerous Driving, No. 45. credibility as are men. As a consequence, their opportunities -- Medical Board - Report for the year 1990-91 [incorporating the Report of the Hospitals Honourable members interjecting. Accreditation Committee for the year 1990-91). FAWKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

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Parliamentary Committees Act 1968 - Minister's That so much of planning scheme amendment RL 146 response to recommendations in the reports of the which does not provide zonings of currently vacant Estimates Subcommittee of the Economic and Budget land as public purposes open space, existing public Review Committee upon the 1990-91 Budget Estimates purposes or stream and floodway be revoked with the and Outcomes and the 1991-92 Budget Estimates. exception of the zoning of that parcel of land known as Lot 288 Lorne Street, Fawkner, identified as suitable for Planning and Environment Act 1987 -Notices of the purposes of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese Approval of the following amendments to planning Property Trust. schemes: On 20 November 1991 the Legislative Council, after Ballaarat (City) Planning Scheme - Amendment considerable debate on a motion I moved, revoked L25. three planning schemes that went to the same area Footscray Planning Scheme - Amendments L24 of land to which this motion is also addressed: the and L25. F2 freeway reservation between Bell Street, Coburg and Mahoneys Road, Thomastown. Frankston Planning Scheme - Amendment L33. Keilor Planning Scheme - Amendment L27. The opposition took that action at the time, albeit with some haste, because I did not become aware of Kerang Borough Planning Scheme - Amendment the government's intentions until a day or two L2. before the lO-day disallowance period provided for Lillydale Planning Scheme - Amendment L56 in the Planning and Environment Act was due to Part 2. expire. Malvern Planning Scheme - Amendment L16. The opposition took the action because it believed Marong Planning Scheme - Amendments L30 there had been insufficient consultation with the and L31. municipalities involved, particularly with the residents of that area, and that the government was Melbourne Planning Scheme - Amendment L56. flying in the face of a report from an independent Narracan Planning Scheme - Amendment L28. panel that recommended differently to what the planning scheme amendment was prOViding and it NWlawading Planning Scheme - Amendment provided for the disposal of open land in the L30. northern suburbs. It is acknowledged by all of us Port Fairy Planning Scheme - Amendment L7. that open space in the northern suburbs is a scarce commodity that should be disposed of only after the Springvale Planning Scheme - Amendment L36. utmost thought and consideration. Wimmera Planning Scheme - Amendment L7. The opposition saw at the time - it has been Statutory Rules Wlder the following Acts of Parliament: confirmed by subsequent events - that the lifting of Corrections Act 1986 -No. 57. the reservation via that series of planning schemes on that occasion was another try at an asset fire sale Evidence Act 1958 -No. 51. by a cash-strapped government in an attempt to Public Service Act 1974 - PSD No. 10. balance its Budget. Wildlife Act 1975 - No. 56. One of the most disappointing aspects of the debate Wonthaggi and District Hospital - Report and that took place on 20 November was the response financial statements for the year 1990-91. from the government. That response might properly be characterised as dishonest. The Minister for Ordered that reports tabled by Clerk be considered Conservation and Environment responded on behalf next day on motion of Hon. HADDON STOREY of the government in the terms that I expected; he (East Yarra). alleged that the opposition was pro-freeway and was interfering with the actions of responsible FAWKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT government. The most Significant part of his contribution was an omission to alert the House to Hon. W. R. BAXTER (North Eastern) - I move: the fact that the government had been negotiating, probably in secret, with members of the Greek community to sell some of the land that was subject FA WKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

674 COUNCIL Tuesday, 5 May 1992 to the planning scheme amendment for the purposes had been rejected by the Legislative Council only a of building a hostel for elderly Greek citizens - a couple of months before. laudable project indeed. I believe the government is acting in contempt of I am surprised that the government and the Minister Parliament by not taking any notice of a decision in his response to the motion did not alert the House made by this House; by taking no notice whatsoever to that fact. The opposition had no knowledge of the of representations made not only by members of the proposal to use that land. opposition but also by widespread community groups; and by introducing an identical amendment Hon. T. C. Theophanous - Rubbish! to one that had been rejected so shortly before. It is typical of the way the government has treated the Hon. W. R. BAXTER - The Minister for Parliament and this place on so many occasions. Consumer Affairs says rubbish. I say to him that as the shadow Minister I had absolutely no knowledge I have before me the Victoria Government Gazette of that this project was under consideration on that 26 November 1991. The government was so particular site, nor did members of the opposition. I keen - it was thumbing its nose at regret the trauma that was caused to the Greek Parliament - that it produced a special edition of community because of the failure of the planning the gazette to announce that it was introducing scheme amendment to proceed on that occasion. I another planning scheme amendment in identical have expressed that regret to His Eminence, the terms to the one rejected by this House six days Archbishop, and to members of the Greek earlier. It is worded in the usual standard terms of community. The government owes the community such amendments that are placed in the Government an apology because it did not alert the House at the Gazette for public notice. The government conducted time to these matters so that action could have been no negotiations with members of the opposition; it taken for the project to proceed without delay. had no negotiations with the Merri Creek Management Committee, although I would consider The main perpetrator of the negotiations was that might have been a useful body with which to Mr Kardamitsis who received his just deserts in the have discussion on such matters. Wills by-election. He attempted to make political capital out of it for himself by not disclosing that the The government faxed a copy of a letter to the three negotiations were going on. When they fell through municipal councils involved - Coburg, that led to the low vote that he polled as the Labor Broadmeadows and Preston ---on 22 November candidate in the Wills by-election a month or so ago. 1991, which was a Friday. The letter advised the councils of the Minister's intention to prepare a new Soon after this proposal had come to light, the amendment to remove the reservation and coalition, through the Leader of the Opposition, requested them to respond by 25 November, the Mr Kennett, in the other place, announced that it following Monday. In other words, the would agree to the lifting of the freeway reservation municipalities were advised on Friday afternoon from Bell Street to Mahoneys Road prOViding that it and the government requested a response by the was all zoned open space except for the site at Lorne following Monday! I ask: is this the way a fair and Street, which was required for the hostel for the responsible government should operate? I think not! Greek community. Moreover, the letter to the municipal councils says: The Leader of the OppOSition and I requested that the government, particularly the honourable The Minister proposes to exempt himself from all member for Pascoe Vale in another place who was requirements to give notice under sections 17, 18 and 19 making a lot of noise about this subject, introduce an of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, in amendment to provide for that. If that were the case accordance with section 20(4) of the Act, as the matters the opposition indicated that it would have no are considered not to warrant compliance with those objection to that amendment proceeding on the first requirements. day that Parliament met in the autumn sessional period in 1992, but the government did not take that Bearing in mind that the Parliament of Victoria, action; it introduced a planning scheme amendment through the Legislative Council, had rejected an on the first day Parliament resumed in 1992 that was identical amendment only two days before, one similar and had an identical purpose to that which would have thought the Minister would not take it upon himself to use those particular sections of the FAWKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

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Act to exempt himself from the usual public whatever the zOnings are that are provided for. I am exhibition requirements. One would have thought not able to do that under the Act. Therefore I have the fact that Parliament had revoked the amendment worded the motion in the terms that I have. would have led to negotiations being undertaken and that it might have been acknowledged that there The motion is in three parts. Firstly, it refers only to might be some interest groups in the community vacant land. whose members wanted to express a view on the amendment. But that was not the case with this Hon. B. T. Pullen - Tell us about the panel arrogant and dictatorial Minister! He resorted to process! provisions in the Act that enabled him to move immediately, without due process. Hon. W. R. BAXTER - There is no suggestion that the opposition wants to interfere with the The Preston City Council, to its credit, responded on rezoning of the freeway reservation where there are Friday, 22 November, the day that it received the any buildings currently on that reservation. notice from the Minister. The general manager said Therefore the motion refers only to vacant land. that he was of the view that his council would want to make a detailed submission on amendment Secondly, it proposes the revocation of those parts RL 146 but that, as his council would not in fact meet that are not zoned as open space. All the rezoning until the following Monday at 7.30 p.m. - by which under the amendment that provides for open space, time the Minister's deadline of 4 p.m. on that day whether it be for public purposes or stream and would have expired - he found himself in some floodway, will remain; those zOnings are not difficulty. He went on to say: touched by the proposals in the motion.

On the basis of previous discussion and the decision by Thirdly, the motion specifies the exemption of the Council, it is considered that the overriding interest of site at Lome Street that has been set aside for an Victoria does not warrant exemption from all of the elderly persons hostel for the Greek community. provisions under Part 3 of the Planning and That means that the planning for the hostel can go Environment Act ... ahead tomorrow because this is the 10th day after the notice of the amendment has been laid before the There we have it: the City of Preston, one of the House. I wish the project well and look forward to main interest groups in the particular proposal, attending the opening ceremony in due course. wanting to make a submission on the amendment but being denied the opportunity of doing so. Again, Clearly, those parts of the land affected by the I consider that outrageous. motion remain under the F2 freeway reservation. Obviously that is a most unsatisfactory situation but, Section 38 of the Planning and Environment Act, as I have already explained, under the Act I am not which will be well known to some honourable able to move an amendment to the planning scheme. members, provides an opportunity for Parliament to give consideration to planning scheme amendments. I urge the government to come to the negotiating Section 38(2) provides: table, to sit down with the opposition and other interest groups and formulate an amendment that is An amendment may be revoked wholly or in part by a acceptable to the various parties. I am not resolution passed by either House of the Parliament necessarily saying that all the land that is not within 10 sitting days after the notice of approval of the currently zoned open space ought to be zoned as amendment is laid before that House. such and remain open space forever. Some room exists for negotiation, and certainly it could be Honourable members will observe that it is open to advantageous to make an exchange of some of the the House to "revoke wholly or in part", but not to land which is not currently within the reservation amend. That put me in something of a difficult but which ought to be kept as open space for some situation when deciding how I should handle the of the land within the reservation that may pOSSibly wording of the motion that is now before the House. be used in due course for industry. I do not rule that I have had to couch it in the terms that I have, and in out. some respects it might be seen by some to be clumsy terminology. It might have been much simpler to Certainly the opposition is not attempting to be amend the zOnings so that they were all for open absolutely hard and fast as to what the ultimate use space and were not RI, industrial, or extractive, or will be, but we are adamant in our view and our FA WKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

676 COUNCIL Tuesday, 5 May 1992 intention that it be kept mainly as open space in the Officers of Melbourne Water and VIC ROADS were future. meeting with City of Preston officials on Thursday in anticipation of this planning scheme coming into One of the groups with which I have had a effect today after the 10 days had expired, and with considerable amount of consultation is the Merri the opposition doing nothing about the amendment. Creek Management Committee. It strikes me as a An erroneous assumption indeed! That is the sort of responsible group. For the benefit of honourable activity about which the opposition is concerned, members, I shall outline who makes up the and we do not wish it to proceed. committee. It is a fairly broadly based group, comprising the municipal cowlcils of Collingwood, It could well be that some of the residential land Fitzroy, Northcote, BfWlSwick, Coburg, Preston, could be sold in the future with the proceeds being Broadmeadows and Whittlesea, a group known as used to assist environmental activities in that area. the Friends of Merri, Melbourne Water, and the As an example, I allude to the Cooper Street Department of Conservation and Environment. grasslands. A few years ago the government stated with great fanfare that it would purchase the The committee made a detailed submission on what grasslands on behalf of the people of Victoria and it thought should be the zoning for the reservation, particularly the citizens of the northern suburbs. but, regrettably, that submission has been largely However nothing has happened; it is another broken ignored by the government. For example, the Merri promise by the government. Knowing how Creek Management Committee believes some of the bankrupt the government is, I suggest that perhaps industrial land, particularly privately owned land, there is an opportunity for some of this land - that could well be zoned for industrial development, not on which it can be agreed ought to be developed - immediately but further down the track. Most of the to be sold with the proceeds devoted to the purchase land is in public ownership, either by the Roads of the Cooper Street grasslands. Corporation, Melbourne Water, the education department or a municipality; but a small section is The Merri Creek Management Committee suggests privately owned, some by Kodak (Australasia) Pty that its proposals: Ltd and some by other industrial concerns. The idea put up by the management committee is worthy of Provide for the protection of the most important consideration and should be further examined. remnant vegetation and open space sites along the freeway alignment, while maximising opportunities for However, I certainly do not agree with the proposal urban consolidation through the development of lands in the planning scheme to zone some of the land for of low community value. use as a quarry. That is the last thing that should be established in a reasonably densely settled area in I endorse that sentiment. The committee continues: the northern suburbs, but this government proposes that some of the land be zoned for use as a quarry! The management committee considers that the There is also an area of land south of Mahoneys proceeds from the sale of public lands along the Road adjacent to Merri Creek in the City of Preston reservation should be put towards the purchase and which has been under Planning Scheme ongoing environmental restoration and management of Amendment R4. My amendment will revoke that public parklands along Merri Creek. zoning, but there is room for negotiation. The management committee certainly suggests that an In particular, the management council supports the exchange be made and that some of the land outside application of funds to enable the acquisition of the the reservation immediately adjacent to the stream whole of the Cooper Street grasslands, and the be exchanged for some that is within the reservation establislunent of a Merri Creek Environmental Trust for use as a residential development. Fund in which the balance of sale revenues may be held in perpetuity. Again, it is a negotiating point and I am not hard and fast on it. However, I am adamant that the The committee also suggests how the interest government should not be able to immediately sell generated might be applied and so on. I am not the land in that particular section for housing making a judgment on the proposal, suffice to say without further consideration. I understand that that that it seems to have a good deal of merit and it was the intention, and that they were moving very ought to be the subject of further negotiations fast. between the government and the Merri Creek Management Committee. FAWKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

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The land on the F2 freeway reservation is a valuable applied out there if this planning scheme were to be asset for the people of Victoria and would make an approved untrammelled. excellent green linear park in an area desperately short of urban space. It could well be the lungs for The document also referred to the establishment of the northern suburbs of Melbourne. the Metropolitan Open Space Advisory Council. I have not been able to ascertain whether that council Hon. B. T. Pullen - This is my speech. You've has been formed, but if it has it clearly had no input done a turnabout! into the decision made regarding the reservation currently being discussed by the House. It is another Hon. W. R. BAXTER - I am glad we're agreeing, example of the government promoting its objectives, Minister. I hope to see a reorientation of some of the praising itself and making promises. However, backyards and rear fences of properties which abut when the chips are down it is found wanting. that piece of land so when the area is cleaned up and developed into parkland the people will see that I should like to place on record my appreciation of their residences can be focused on parkland rather the assistance I received in this matter from a than on the streets as they currently are. number of sources. Yesterday I visited the council offices of Coburg, Preston and Broadmeadows and I A good example is the activities of LandCare groups spoke to whoever was behind the counter of the in country Victoria. They have been a worthy planning desks in each of those municipalities. In initiative of the government and have done some each instance it was a young person. So often young excellent work. I would like to see a similar principle people are criticised for being uninterested. It is extended to the Merri Creek in the suburbs. The suggested that they could not care less and do not Merri Creek Management Study is undertaking know what is going on. In contrast, I would have to similar activities to those of LandCare groups in say I was delighted with the attention, assistance country Victoria, but as I have indicated in reading and knowledge of the people in each of the out the composition of the management committee, municipal offices I visited yesterday, and that is a it is largely composed of statutory bodies - that is, tribute to each of them. councils and the like. It would be useful if it received an injection of support from volunteers as well as I should also like to thank Rod McLellan and Bruce some community input, and I put that on the table McGregor of the Merri Creek Management as a suggestion. Committee. They have been very positive in the representations they have made to the opposition The committee has similar scope to LandCare; it just while this imbroglio has been in place. I also want to needs to be developed a bit more, which leads me to thank Mr Con Karavitis, who clearly understands another big announcement made with great fanfare and appreciates the aspirations of northern suburb early in 1991 by the former Minister for residents. He has contributed to this debate in a Conservation and Environment, the Honourable most constructive manner and I thank him for that. Steve Crabb. When he launched the Open Space He is unlike the honourable members for Pascoe 2000 program he suggested it was the government's Vale and Thomastown in another place who have intention to preserve open space throughout done their best to mislead and deceive the residents Melbourne. He referred to: of the northern suburbs. Some of the press statements they have both made are outrageous. Identifying the key missing links in metropolitan open space corridors as part of an overall four-year action I am asking the House to carry my motion today plan. which, as I have said, does not interfere with the lifting of the reservation on land that has buildings He also talked about: or houses on it; it does not interfere with the Greek hostel site or with open space zonings. However, it Improving the streamside environment to conserve does put on hold for the time being zonings for other indigenous flora and fauna and to provide a safe and purposes on land which the government may sell off attractive environment. and which would be lost forever as open space. The motion represents the opposition asking the They are very laudable objectives but what government to come to the negotiating table and happened to them in the Merri Creek area? work out an experimental proposal. Apparently Open Space 2000 would not have FAWKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

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Hon. B. T. Pullen - First you said "lost for a introducing the amendment in a cavalier fashion. freeway". Now you say "lost for open space". Which The government was told that amendment would is it? not be passed and that the opposition would move a motion to remedy the situation. The government Hon. W. R. BAXTER - I made it clear in my also thumbed its nose at the local people who were remarks in November when the opposition moved in favour of the solution now being proposed by the to revoke the planning scheme amendment that it opposition. did so because time had run out when it became aware of the plans. The opposition believed it was The consultations Mr Baxter has had with local inappropriate to move at that stage without groups have proved that the local people are in adequate consultation, and that has proven to be favour of the solution proposed by the opposition. correct. I have always known it to be correct bearing The local members of Parliament from another place in mind the construction of the Western ring-road. cannot be representing the area very well if they That project will receive a boost from recent Federal have totally misread the mood of the people. I will grants that will be continued by an incoming later quote from a newspaper article to show that Commonwealth government. those representatives have not only misread the wishes of the people but also have tried to mislead Future access from Craigieburn and similar places the people about the true intention of the motion will probably be from a freeway as far south as now before the House. Mahoneys Road, which will in effect become the Western ring-road. Motorists will then proceed In the government's desperate desire to make some around that ring-road to the Tullamarine Freeway money - it does not have any left because it has and obtain access to Melbourne from that direction. wasted most of the State's money over the past 10 The move some years ago by the government to years - it thought it could sell some land for remove the southern section of that reservation industrial purposes and not worry about the means the building of a freeway through the land requirements of the local people for public open currently under consideration would result in severe space. Had the opposition not acted wisely to congestion at Bell Street. It does not appear likely preserve public open space, the government would that a freeway will be built there in the future. have thumbed its nose at the envirorunental and conservation ideals it professes to espouse. The opposition does not object in principle to Planning Scheme Amendment RL 146, which would The motion before the House is intended to lift the lift the freeway reservation. I do not want the F2 freeway reservation to preserve public open Minister to claim in his response that the opposition space; prevent the government from selling off has a secret plan to build a freeway on this certain areas of land that would be available for land - that is not true! I call on the government to industrialisation, which could lead to pollution; and work in the interests of the community rather than to preserve a small area of land for the building of a acting as a dictatorial juggernaut, ignoring the Greek elderly citizens hostel, which has long been wishes of the people with which it professes and planned and sought by the Greek Orthodox Church. often claims to have a special affinity, especially those in the northern suburbs. I seek the support of The Liberal Party candidates for the Legislative the House for my motion. Assembly seats of Pascoe Vale and Coburg, Mr Con Karavitis and Mr Ross Lazzaro, seem to have got it Hon. J. G. MILES (Templestowe) - I have great right so far as the feelings of the people in that area pleasure in supporting Mr Baxter's motion; he are concerned. Mr Lazzaro has clearly expressed his covered the technical aspects of the motion and point of view that the erection of residential or canvassed the reasons for it extremely well. industrial buildings would be detrimental to the environment of the area and that the area is already As Mr Baxter pointed out, late last year had the over-populated and industrialised. government listened to the requests of the opposition on this matter it would have been No-one wants the increased industrialisation that a possible to achieve the thrust of this motion in government sell-off of land would create. Most cooperation with the government. Although the residents in an area with limited open space and government knew exactly what the opposition was green parkland want open space retained. The desire about and the sort of solution being proposed at the of the government should have been to preserve as time it thumbed its nose at Parliament by much of that open area for public open space as FA WKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

Tuesday, 5 May 1992 COUNCIL 679 possible. That is the ideal constantly put forward by article to which I have referred. They are misleading the government. In this case the opposition is the public about the intentions of the coalition. a ttempting to protect the environment from the Mc Baxter and I state categorically that the coalition Labor Party, which has sold off some of the land to will protect that area of public open space. It does allow polluting industrialisation to take its place. not have to be told by Labor members in another place what it will do. ~1r Karavitis expressed his point of view in a letter published in the Coburg Courier of 18 February. His The article headed ''Freeway furore" written by view is the same as that of the residents: that public Vanda Hamilton is a good article apart from the open space should be preserved. The opposition's reported misleading and mischievous remarks of the motion has the strong support of ~ Karavitis, who Labor Party members from another place. is a long-standing representative of that area. The government wants to sell off the land reserved I pay tribute to the local press who, despite for some for the freeway so that developers can build factories years being fed a diet of misleading Australian and houses on it, but that will cause more pollution Labor Party propaganda from Labor candidates or and have a Significant effect on the environment. sitting members of Parliament in the northern and When in government the coalition will preserve the western suburbs, has done a good job of reporting reservation as public open space, adding to the few this type of issue. Vanda Hamilton of the Courier has parklands in that area. written many articles on the matter. Although many of the articles quoted the views of the honourable 1he opposition has been forced into moving the members for Thomastown and Pascoe Vale in motion because of the government's devious use of another place, more recent articles have given the Planning Scheme Amendment RL 146. I state again points of view of ~ Baxter, ~ Karavitis, that the opposition will not build a freeway or Mr Lazzaro and community groups. ~ Baxter's factories on that public open space. recent visit to the area with Liberal candidates was given good coverage by the Coburg Courier and The opposition is obviously more concerned about Vanda Hamilton. I commend them on their good environmental and conservation issues than is the reporting of the matter. government, which prides itself on its so-called ideals of protecting the environment. The In an article that appeared in the Coburg Courier of government has let down its supporters in the 21 April headed "Freeway furore", Ms Hamilton conservation community by its actions. appears to have been misled by the honourable members for Thomastown and Pascoe Vale in Mc Baxter referred to the consultation he has had another place. They attempt to spread the scare with the Merri Creek Management Committee and tactic of horror stories about what the coalition will other local groups in the area. They have indicated do. In that article both gentlemen are quoted as their support for the coalition's policy because it will saying that if the type of motion before the House protect the limited amount of public open space in today is passed the coalition plans to build a that area. freeway through the area bulldozing houses and any industrial properties in the vicinity of the I support the motion because it will prevent the reservation. Luckily those allegations are refuted by government from selling off the land for industrial ~ Baxter in the same article. Those allegations are development, which would further pollute the not correct. The Leader of the OppOSition, and environment. ~ Baxter, as shadow Minister for roads and ports, have said that the coalition will not build a freeway Hon. G. A. SGRO (Melbourne North) - In a in that area or bulldoze houses or factories, but that debate like this the first victim is truth. I have lived the land will be retained as public open space except in the area referred to in the motion for 40 years and for the area promised to the Greek Orthodox church I have walked my dogs along the Merri Creek for 30 for a hostel for its elderly citizens. The scare tactics years, so I know every inch of it. Mc Baxter and of the Labor government are nonsense. Mc Miles do not live in the area.

The honourable members for Thomastown and During the previous Liberal government's Pascoe Vale must have different standards of administration the creek smelt because it was accuracy and honesty to be able to say the things polluted. The local people voluntarily worked to they have been reported as saying in the newspaper clean up the creek and its tributaries, which were in FA WKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

680 COUNCIL Tuesday, 5 May 1992 a polluted state because of the neglect of the Liberal that person spoke to 200 people on the night of the government. meeting and was very clear on the issue. He promised the Greek community that the opposition, The coalition talks about freeways, but my house at when in government, would allow it to build an 45 Golf Road, East Coburg, is 200 metres away from elderly citizens hostel. the proposed F2 freeway site. My wife and I and residents in the area worked for 10 years to persuade I remind Mr Baxter that, as I was resident in the area governments not to build the freeway because the during the period of the Liberal administration, I local people did not want it and because it was not know that many approaches were made to the then necessary. Minister to do something about the shambles and the environment of the Merri Creek, which had had I remind Mr Baxter and Mr Miles that there are six cars, old tyres and rubbish dumped in it. The or seven blocks of land south of Bell Street that are residents of that area today suffer the consequences vacant because during the period from 1979 to 1985, of the previous government's policy. Many factories when the freeway was first proposed, many people have been built in the Newlands Estate area which sold their properties and moved out of the area. local residents and cOWlcils strongly opposed. The opposition gave the green light for them to proceed. I can understand Mr Baxter's view to a certain extent The residents suffer the consequences of having because he does not live in the area or wlderstand it. those factories in their area. At night they have to I accept that he did not know that the Greek close their windows whenever there is a north wind Orthodox church has wanted to build the elderly blowing because of the rotten stench coming from persons hostel for more than 15 years. Mr Baxter those factories. referred to the Labor Party's candidate for the Federal seat of Wills in the recent by-election, In a way I am glad to be discussing this motion Mr Kardamitsis; Mr Baxter can say what he likes because it is better late than never, but do not tell me about him, but Mr Kardamitsis was behind the effort this has been the policy of the opposition! It has to raise money for this hostel. changed its policy because the local people of the area organised rallies and told all politicians and The opposition has suddenly discovered the Greek political parties that they did not want any more community because there are some votes in it. I factories. supported the building of the hostel more than 15 years ago and I support it now, but the opposition is Hon. R. I. Knowles - You support the contents playing cheap politics in moving the motion. of this motion, do you?

The Greek community organised some rallies and Hon. G. A. SGRO - That is why Mr Baxter has meetings about the proposal and the opposition is come in here and moved this motion. Two or three now taking notice. As I said, it has just discovered months ago he did not know that an elderly citizens the Greek community in the area and is supporting complex was to be built there. These matters should the building of the hostel to make up for the groWld have been cleared up with the Liberal Party it lost some months ago - it now wants all the land representative who was present at the public to be public open space! meeting. He told us that the opposition wanted all the land from Mahoneys Road to Bell Street to be Hon. J. G. Miles - No. public land; now Mr Baxter says it can be negotiated.

Hon. G. A. SGRO - A representative of the I live in the area and I oppose any further building Liberal Party clearly stated at a public meeting held of factories or industrialisation there. I do not care in the area that his party believes all the land should what anyone else says, I tell you what the people are be zoned public purpose open space. Mr Baxter says saying to me: they have had enough of the stench the government and the opposition can negotiate on from the factories in the area. the issue, but the Liberal Party representative was quite clear about the opposition's view on the issue: Hon. R. I. Knowles - You support what that all the land from Mahoneys Road to Bell Street Mr Baxter says! He is representing their view, which should be zoned public purpose open space. is more than the government is doing!

I suggest that Mr Baxter, as the shadow Minister, Hon. G. A. SGRO - That is not true, and you talk to his Liberal representative in that area because know it. What Mr Baxter is saying now is, 'We can FA WKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

Tuesday, 5 May 1992 COUNCIL 681 negotiate". I am saying that area should be left as it Hon. R. I. Knowles - But you don't support it! is; it already has enough factories. Hon. G. A. SGRO - I do not support what the Hon. R. I. Knowles - The planning amendment opposition says. I have previous experience and I is allowing industrial development. That is what the know that what the opposition says today was not government wants to do! its view in the past. In the past the Liberal Party said there would be no more freeways but it did nothing Hon. G. A. SGRO - In certain areas. It can be for 20 years; it did not abolish the reservations, but negotiated, I accept that, but we do not want any kept them on the map. If the opposition speaks to more industry further north in the area near Bell local people in the area they will tell it that they do Street and through to the Newlands Estate. not trust it.

Hon. R. I. Knowles - You're supporting what Hon. B. T. PULL EN (Minister for Conservation Mr Baxter is saying! and Environment) - Mr Baxter has moved a motion that partly disallows aspects of planning scheme Hon. G. A. SGRO - Not what he is saying. amendment RL 146. As I have said previously, it is Twenty years ago at public meetings the then becoming a bad practice of this House to act as a de government used to tell the people of the area it did facto planning authority. Processes are in place, and not want any more factories built, but it left the any planning Minister who has been involved in freeway reservation on the map until this those processes in governments of different government took it off. The local people do not persuasions knows that one starts to play around believe what the opposition says. with those planning processes and bring them before the House at one's peril. Hon. R. I. Knowles - Ten years ago you opposed corporatisation and changed your policy! Hon. W. R. Baxter - Your Minister ignored the process on this occasion! Hon. G. A. SGRO - Forget about corporatisation - I have told you what I think. I Hon. B. T. PULL EN - I will come to the detail have told you that the people in the area do not later. By this example it is clear what difficulties the want freeways. Despite what the opposition now opposition has got itself into by seeking to use this says, until two years ago it did not want to cancel House to overturn due processes which have the plans for a freeway; it left the reservation there. involved public consultation, duly appointed panels, It was to be built from Bell Street to Fitzroy, and that hearing of objections, working out the pros and cons would have destroyed a beautiful area. of quite difficult cases and, finally, a resolution.

As a representative of the people of the area for On previous occasions I have said that the many years, I am glad that Mr Baxter has discovered opposition adopts an umpire's decision when it suits the older Greek community in the area. There is a it for political purposes, and at other times it knows tremendous problem with the older people there the process and -- and I am glad Mr Baxter has changed his mind. I am also glad that the opposition is saying what the Hon. R. I. Knowles - Your government has been Labor Party has said for the past 20 or 30 years: that doing that for years! the area from Fitzroy to Merri Creek and Edgars Creek should be beautified. Hon. B. T. PULLEN - Just be a bit patient.

The Labor government, in conjunction with local Hon. R. I. Knowles - At least be consistent! government, has planted more than 50 000 trees there in the past ten years. It has established Hon. B. T. PULLEN - I am being consistent in financial committees and provided them with funds the sense that we have seen this House being used to help beautify those areas. Recently the opposition many times to change the outcomes of a planning attacked the government for giving money to process. Anyone who has a real concern about various organisations in the area. proper processes must be worried about what is occurring. I do not support the amendment. Personally I will tell the House how I feel. I do not see anything This particular case is one of the clearest examples of wrong with it -- the dangers inherent in fiddling with the process in FA WKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

682 COUNCIL Tuesday. 5 May 1992 the way that the opposition has done. I could ask the The next part of the process was to deal with the question that I asked by interjection: what is the differences in those submissions, and an panel that the opposition has used? Does the public independent one-person panel was established. know how the opposition weighed up the pros and After considera tion, tha t panel recommended that cons? Was there any public process of hearing one the amendments not proceed pending a further side and the other side such as we had through the study to examine the strategic need for the planning process? reservation.

We duly exhibited the amendment that we That task was referred to the Minister for Transport, formulated. We formed a working group which who examined it and came back with the view that a included representatives from the Department of further study was not required, and that he was Planning and Housing, the municipal councils of satisfied the amendment could proceed. It went Preston, Coburg and Broadmeadows, VIC ROADS, forward in a form that would have enabled a the former Melbourne and Metropolitan Board of number of things to occur, some of which related to Works -now Melbourne Water -and the Merri the establishment of an elderly citizens centre for the Creek Management Committee. That working group Greek community. met a number of times and conducted inspections to determine suitable replacement zonings and That represented a better use of the land than reservations prior to public exhibition of the leaving it to lie dormant under the cover of road amendment. That was in the context of realising that reservation, with a doubt that it would ever be used this reservation, which had Originally been intended for that purpose; and if it were, that would be in to be a reservation for a major freeway route, was no opposition to the views of the community. longer required. Hence, there was a need to establish what is now its appropriate use. There was the For people who have not bothered to study the area threshold question of not leaving it sitting there or people who do not know it intimately, we have dormant for an unknown period, of no use to the photographs and plans which show that because of community. One could not just say, '1eave it there" the coincidence of the route of Merri Creek in many when the community has shown quite clearly that it places there was an opportunity to achieve open did not want to have an F2 freeway in the Merri space zonings for the long-term benefit of the Creek valley. That was the basic threshold community. proposition. When I spoke about this in the House in opposing There is a careful process for trying to determine what at that time was the straightforward what are the appropriate uses for that rezoned land. disallowance of the motion by the opposition, I Anybody who has had any experience with indicated that I thought there was the opportunity planning at the local government level knows that for it to be the lungs of the northern suburbs. I am complete agreement will not be obtained, so one interested that Mr Baxter has picked up that phrase works through the process as best one can. It is a this time. I am very pleased that he now shares the fairly reasonable process of bringing the parties view that there is some value in having open space together, and in this case the responsible authorities and other uses that were considered, given that the are key players, as representatives of local councils, original purpose of the reservation was to provide a their constituents and the local areas. wide road, something like an eight-lane freeway through natural areas, some of which seemed In this case, an important player was the Merri appropriate for residential development and others Creek Management Committee, which had a good of which adjoined industrial areas that seemed record of being interested in the management of the appropriate. creek and being involved in improving it and restoring it as much as possible to its former state. Is it surprising that the amendment that came forward really dealt with a number of issues? It The original documents were publicly exhibited for dealt with the issue of providing a clear opportunity one month in January and February of 1991; notices for a community - in this case, the Greek were placed in local newspapers in three areas; and community - to do something it had been desiring move than 300 effective property owners and to do for some time, to build a hostel facility. Here interested agencies were notified. As a result, 14 was land, when land is not that easy to obtain, that it submissions were received. could use. That is the first purpose that came out of the amendment. FAWKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

Tuesday. 5 May 1992 COUNCIL 683

Secondly, it provided a large increase in open space. anybody who is interested in the position that Thirdly, it provided for increased residential Mr Baxter took at that time to read the whole of the development in areas that were appropriate. text of his speech and Mr Guest's supporting speech Fourthly, it provided opportunities for industrial to Parliament on that occasion. development, the development of jobs and other opportunities in this northern area. That was the reason and that would still be the reason. They had not done their homework. They That has been achieved through the process. had not realised tha t part of the reason for this Basically, without total agreement, most of the rezoning was to assist a Greek community group by people involved saw that as a good outcome and providing a site for facility it needed. Then all hell still see it as a good outcome. What did we see broke loose because, having discovered that, they happen? This is the danger - this is why Mr Baxter had to do the somersault of all time. It was the road is really turning somersaults. The first somersault to Damascus all over again. Mr Baxter, his party and was in relation to his general attitude to whether the his Leader had to do a complete about-face and find freeway reservation should continue. a way out of the situation.

I had better make this very clear because, although I On discovering that they have realised they cannot welcome some of the attitudes that he has put press on and deny a community group access to a forward in his address to the House today, we ought piece of land it has been seeking. That was the very to make clear the basis of the disallowance last time. cynical reason why they changed their minds. They I refer to Mr Baxter's speech on page 1395 of Hansard did not stop there because they then thought, ''How of Wednesday, 20 November 1991: do we get out of this? What sort of arguments can we put up from that basic position?". They realised The point made is important: deleting the reservation there was no point continuing with a proposal that now closes off options for the next century. In other would leave a freeway reservation open because if words, what is done now will not only have an one looks at the plans, one will see that the site that immediate effect; it could have crucial effects 30 or 40 will be made available to the Greek community to years hence. build its facility is to the north, Lorne Street, right smack in the centre of where any freeway could go. Further down on the same page, talking about the They realised that once they had made that decision, anticipated population growth in the Merri and the whole freeway proposal was finished. Plenty corridors, Mr Baxter says: Hon. W. R. Baxter - There is room enough left to Those people will need the F2 freeway as their main build a freeway beside it. access to the City of Melbourne. I reiterate that it is absolutely unreasonable and premature for the Hon. B. T. PULL EN - I very much doubt that, government to be contemplating the removal of the but it is an indication that Mr Baxter is a reluctant reservation, particularly in light of the independent convert. He still hankers after his freeway but he has panel's report. accepted the brutal political reality that it cannot go ahead. So it goes on. Mr Baxter continually quoted from consultants, the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria The opposition wondered what it could do. It (RACV), and other sources to raise the argument decided to leap to the other extreme. Although the that basically the main thing wrong with the views of the Merri Creek Management Committee proposed rezoning is that it destroys the capacity for and other people concerned about open space did the reservation to become a freeway in the future, not figure in Mr Baxter's previous speech, the and that was supported by Mr Guest. opposition has seen the light and is suggesting it should all be open space. The motion, which The total thrust of the argument raised by the proposes to revoke part of the planning scheme opposition at that time was: let us keep this freeway amendment, suggests there is no place for housing; reservation. It is no wonder that in that debate I there is no place for jobs; and there is no place for indicated that that was not on, that the government properly zoned industrial development. did not want that freeway any more and that the people of Coburg do not want it any more, as has The opposition is not concerned with due process. It been expressed again today by the Honourable is not prepared to consider that issue. The Giovanni Sgro. That is a total rejection and I invite opposition wants to get something out of the issue FAWKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

684 COUNCIL Tuesday, 5 May 1992 and if it cannot do it in one way it will do it in The government views the motion as a move another. The opposition wants to be green! towards a satisfactory solution. It welcomes that because it can now go forward with its original The community is not stupid. It can see the obvious intention to provide the land to the Greek manoeuvring of the opposition. The community will community as part of the original proposal. The compare Mr Baxter's speech made in November areas of open space that are precious and important with the one he delivered today. People will for the Merri Creek can now be designated as such. recognise the reasons for such a turnabout. It is clear People will have greater certainty in undertaking that the opposition has totally mismanaged this and being involved in voluntary work there. issue. The principle is really above politics. When honourable members come into the Chamber they Although the government accepts the advance, it have to live with politics, but I suggest that it is not regrets that the issue has been left hanging. I suggest wise for honourable members to tamper with due the only process left to us is to bring back the process in an ad hoc way because they will be amendment at another time and hope commonsense brought undone. This is the most obvious case of will prevail when dealing with the remaining areas. being brought undone that I have witnessed. The opposition's about-face is transparent to all. Hon. W. R. Baxter - That's what I have asked for!

When faced with the government's rezoning Hon. B. T. PULLEN - The opposition has not got proposal, which matches the needs of the itself off the hook. It has recognised that the community and provides for the Greek community government's original proposal was more suitable to to build an important facility, all the opposition can the community. This is an advance towards the do is disallow the amendment in parts. All the government's and the Minister's original intention of opposition has done is leave a number of issues following due process, but I am certain the hanging and create problems and uncertainty. opposition has now learnt a lesson. All the people who read Mr Baxter's speech on the last occasion he The continued reservation of privately owned land moved for the disallowance of the amendment can for public purposes where that land is no longer compare it with today's speech to ascertain the required for such use could result in hardship for about-face the opposition has taken. They will landowners. The opposition wants a continued recognise the dangers in this House tampering ad alienation of land that could be used to cost hoc with amendments that involve due process, effectively generate new jobs and housing within the public consultation, panels and the consideration of existing urban area. All honourable members should objections and pros and cons. In that sense I am be in favour of that. pleased that some progress has been made and that we can preserve open space areas and provide land The opposition's motion will create the clearly for the Greek community to build an elderly citizens ridiculous situation of reservations, including a facility. major road reservation, with other pieces of land in between. It is a jigsaw: there will be a piece here, a Hon. R. I. KNOWLES (BaHarat) - I had not road there, open space, a small site for the Greek anticipated speaking during this debate, but the community and another piece of land for a potential response of the Minister to Mr Baxter's motion has freeway. I am sure no-one believes there will be a been breathtaking. The Minister has given the freeway, but it is ridiculous to leave a planning opposition a lecture. He suggested the opposition scheme in such a mess because the opposition wants had no part to play in the planning process despite to tamper with it and not go through the due the Act specifically allowing its participation. The process. The opposition is silent because it Minister laboured the point about due process. recognises it has taken a poor approach. Everyone There have been only two occasions when this involved in planning processes recognises that. House has disallowed planning amendments.

In clOSing, I must say that the opposition's change in Hon. B. T. Pullen - Three! attitude is an advance. At least some people can be given some certainty. For that reason I welcome Hon. R. I. KNOWLES - This is the third, but it Mr Baxter's motion; he has tried to repair some of covers two issues. On the other occasions the the damage. Within the limitations of disallowance government ignored the recommendations of panels he has basically tried to match the government's set up to consider proposals. The other issue was the intentions. planning scheme covering Mont Park where the FA WKNER PLANNING AMENDMENT

Tuesday, 5 May 1992 COUNCIL 685 government ignored the recommendations of its provides for Parliament to have an input into own panel. What happened after the opposition planning scheme amendments. That power is not revoked the planning amendment? The govemment used often - that is commendable - probably brought in another planning amendment that was because in most cases due process is followed. On more in line with the recommendations of the panel. the couple of occasions when it has not been The government has claimed that as its initiative. It followed Parliament has accepted the responsibility has tried to give credit to the honourable member it has to intervene. for Greensborough, Mr s Garbutt, as if it were all her work, yet the government fought tooth and nail Hon. B. T. Pullen - Seven times! against the disallowance motion. Hon. M. T. Tehan - That is an increase from Hon. B. T. Pullen - Just like the last time three times! Mr Baxter moved for the disallowance of a planning scheme. Hon. W. R. BAXTER - I do not intend to get into a debate on how many times the power has been Hon. R. I. KNOWLES - The government fought used. On the two most recent occasions and on this it all the way. Subsequently the opposition found third occasion the power has been used in the most that the Greek community's need reasonable and reasonable fashion because the government did not decided to accommodate that aspect of the proposal. follow due process. It thumbed its nose at due The opposition requested the government to amend process. In this case, despite a request from a the planning scheme to facilitate that and leave the number of interested parties, particularly the City of rest as open space. The government supported the Preston, the Minister took it upon himself to employ proposal. Did the government take on board the section 20 to exempt himself, as Minister, from the concerns Mr Sgro expressed about the need for open provisions of the other sections which provide for space; did it agree with the Minister who expressed due process. I invite the Minister to reflect on some support for the views of the local community? Did of his remarks. He might come to the conclusion that that view prevail? Not on your life! he is on shaky ground.

The government brought back the identical proposal I appreciated the sincerity of the contribution made that had been defeated before. So far as he can by Mr Sgro and the fact that he conceded I was not within the powers of disallowance provided under aware that there was a proposal for a Greek hostel, the Planning and Environment Act, Mr Baxter has but I was surprised by a couple of his other remarks. addressed the public response to the issues. The He said that he did not want any further industry in government is now changing its attitude. I the area. That is precisely the intent of my motion guarantee that it will not be long before the and therefore he should support it. He also alleged government is claiming credit for the end result, a that the land in question is a mess as it is littered result that has come about only because the with old cars. I agree with him that it is in that opposition has been prepared to act as a watchdog condition although some work has been undertaken under the power provided as a very last resort in the because I have been out there on a couple of Planning and Environment Act. We do not use that occasions, once as recently as yesterday. Moreover, power willy-nilly. We have always used it for 40 years I have been travelling in and out of responsibly when the government has refused to Melbourne years along that route. follow its own processes, which it professes to support. I strongly support the motion moved by I was intrigued by the claim made by Mr Sgro that Mr Baxter and I congratulate him for the way in the previous Liberal government should have done which he has pursued this issue in the interests of something about cleaning up the area. Perhaps it the people who live in the area. should have done that but his government has been in office for 10 years. I wonder about his influence Hon. W. R. BAXTER (North Eastem) - I endorse on the government and whether he has the interest the remarks made by Mr Knowles. He set out clearly of the area at heart if he is still complaining 10 years the discrepancies in the Minister's argument and the on that nothing has been done to clean up the area. It fact that the government totally ignores due process. has taken that time for the government to address Not only did it ignore the primary recommendation itself to this particular planning reservation. I believe made by the panel but also it totally ignored the it is too late to be blaming the condition of the land panel's fall-back position. For the Minister to talk on a previous government. The opportunity of using about due process is extraordinary. The Act STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION (MINIMUM ENERGY EFFICIENCY LEVELS) BILL

686 COUNCIL Tuesday, 5 May 1992 the excuse of 27 years of Liberal government ran out on-premises (restaurant) licences to apply to the in 1985. It cannot be used as an excuse in 1992. Liquor Licensing Commission of Victoria for authorisation to provide liquor to patrons in all the 1 invite the House to support the motion. I reiterate public area of the restaurants without the the offer I made to the government during the requirement for patrons to have meals. course of my principal remarks: this a matter for negotiation. 1 am interested in maintaining the At the moment section 50(3) of the Liquor Control totality of open space, but clearly the boundaries are Act 1987 provides that a restaurant that hold a 25 open to negotiation on similar terms to the excellent per cent authorisation may serve a patron liquor submission made by the Merri Creek Management without the requirement to purchase a meal if that Committee, which alluded to an adjacent piece of patron sits within the deSignated 25 per cent publicly-owned land, which perhaps, more liquor-without-meals area. appropriately, might be zoned as open space and would be useful in the maintenance of native The 25 per cent restriction is both illogical and grass lands in the metropolitan area. unworkable for licensees and especially for licensing inspectors who must try to establish whether An exchange could be advantageously made. That is someone sitting in the main section of a restaurant something the opposition would be happy to has eaten, will be eating or simply intends to drink accommodate. 1 call on the government not to leave without eating. this matter in limbo - as the Minister suggested the result of the motion will be and 1 concede it will. But Currently, 257 of the 1400 licensed restaurants in he conceded that the Act did not allow me any other Victoria hold the 2S per cent liquor-without-meals opportunity. It is the government's responsibility to authorisation. Upon the proclamation of this Bill, the ensure that the situation does not remain in limbo 100 per cent liquor-without-meals authorisation will for a period longer than is absolutely necessary and automatically apply unless a council or shire lodges that an appropriate planning scheme amendment is an objection with the Liquor Licensing Commission tabled as soon as possible. within 28 days of receiving notice from the commission's chief executive officer. The right of Motion agreed to. objection will be limited to councils and shires and will provide them with the opportunity to be STATE ELECTRICITY COMMISSION involved in the formal decision-making process on (MINIMUM ENERGY EFFICIENCY the basis that they represent community interests in LEVELS) BILL the area. Objections will be determined by the Liquor Licensing Commission. Introduction and first reading New applicants for 100 per cent For Hon. D. R. WHITE (Minister for liquor-without-meals authorisation will be required Manufacturing and Industry Development), to comply with the full due process of variation to a Hon. C. J. Hogg introduced a Bill to amend the liquor licence, including advertising and allowing State Electricity Commission Act 1958 and for other objections to be heard from councils, the police, the purposes. community and other interested parties.

Read first time. In determining a 100 per cent liquor-without-meals authorisation, both for current 2S per cent LIQUOR CONTROL (FURTHER authorisation holders and any new applicants, the AMENDMENT) BILL commission will have to be satisfied that the primary purpose of the premises remains that of a Second reading restaurant where food must be available at all times. The Liquor Licensing Commission will closely Hon. T. C. THEOPHANOUS (Minister for monitor this requirement and will have particular Consumer Affairs) -I move: regard to the number of patrons allowed on the premises if entertainment is provided. That this Bill be now read a second time. To ensure that restaurateurs understand their new The Liquor Control (Further Amendment) Bill 1992 responsibilities and obligations the Minister will be principally provides for liquor licensees holding consulting with the Liquor Licensing Commission VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING (AMENDMENT) BILL

Tuesday, 5 May 1992 COUNCIL 687 with a view to requiring all new applicants for The changes proposed in this Bill also contribute to liquor-without-meals permits to successfully the development of Melbourne's reputation as the complete the Victorian liquor licensing course at a restaurant capital of Australia and are supported by TAPE institution before the authorisation is granted the Victorian Tourism Commission, which sees the by the commission. lifting of the existing restrictions as being conducive to our growing tourism industry. Furthermore, in providing this opportunity for restaurateurs it is expected that they will have due The Bill builds on earlier reforms which have, in a regard to the maintenance of appropriate work controlled way, introduced competition in the environments for their employees and comply with industry and led to increased variety, higher quality approved award conditions. In my view this is an services, greater overall employment levels and a integral element of being a fit and proper person to range of spin-off effects in the building, refurbishing hold a liquor licence. and entertainment industries.

There are also three other important components in This Bill is a further step in the continuing this Bill. Firstly, the Bill expands the definition of development of the licensed hospitality industry in liquor subject to the Liquor Control Act 1987 to Victoria. It is a recognition of the changing drinking include any product determined by regulation. and eating habits of the community and will facilitate further investment in the popular This amendment will ensure the effective control of restaurant/bar concept. emerging products on the market such as jelly and iced confectionary with an alcohol content above 0.5 I commend this Bill to the House. per cent by volume. This will eliminate the potential for such products, which are currently not Debate adjourned for Hon. K. M. SMITH (South proscribed in the Liquor Control Act 1987, to be Eastern) on motion of Hon. R. J. Long. misrepresented or made available to under-age persons. Debate adjourned until Tuesday, 12 May.

Secondly, the Bill will put the onus for advising VOCATIONAL EDUCATION AND councils or shires of applications for TRAINING (AMENDMENT) BILL liquor-without-meals authorisations on restaurants. It will also make it possible for the Liquor Licensing Second reading Commission to require liquor licence advertisement and display requirements and notices to be Debate resumed from 13 November 1991; motion displayed on licensed premises, an example of this of Hon. B. T. PULLEN (Minister for Education and being that BYO restaurants will be required to Training) display their corkage fees on the front windows of their premises. These measures will add to the Hon. HADDON STOREY (East Yarra) - The effectiveness and efficiency of the control of liquor. Vocational Education and Training (Amendment) Bill makes a number of amendments to the Finally, the Bill gives the Equal Opportunity Board Vocational Education and Training Act, which was the ability to bring an action before the Liquor passed only a couple of years ago, and establishes a Licensing Commission in its own right for new framework for the operation of the system of suspension or cancellation of a liquor licence on the TAPE and training in Victoria. It is a complex Act grounds of discriminatory practices. and requires a review. Indeed, I recall that at the time it was being debated in this House the coalition This Bill is the result of extensive consultation with urged the government to ensure it reviewed the industry and community groups. operation of the Act within 12 months of its being passed because it would undoubtedly need The view of the Victoria Police is that the existing amendment. This Bill has been brought in to make provisions are difficult to police and do not provide those amendments. a patron with the option of consuming a drink without the requirement to have a meal. It is also They are miscellaneous amendments so it is not their view that the proposed expansion of possible to talk in general terms about the import of liquor-without-meaIs facilities will not lead to the Bill. However, it is desirable to go through the community amenity detriment or liquor abuse. different parts of the Bill and deal with the different VOCA TIONAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING (AMENDMENT) BILL

688 COUNCIL Tuesday,S May 1992 subject matters. In the course of doing so it is directors and the staff of the colleges. Although necessary to reflect upon the way the system is non-academic staff are employed directly by the operating at the moment, and to comment on how councils, academic staff are employed centrally. the system should operate and whether the Although academic staff may be selected by government is heading in the right direction in councils - it does not always happen - at present relation to TAPE colleges. they are members of the TAPE Teaching Service and are centrally employed. The issue is raised directly by the first major portion of the Bill which deals with delegations. Part 2 We must also address the issue of what sort of amends the principal Act to extend the range of system is needed. The coalition believes a persons to whom delegations may be made by the decentralised system is needed to enable the colleges Minister, the State Training Board itself and the to respond to the demands expressed by local people general manager of the board. Another clause and local industries, who are best able to highlight extends the ability of people to whom delegations the needs of particular localities. That should be are given to sub-delegate those powers to other done through the councils, which should be the people. governing bodies of the colleges. The councils should be accountable for the management of the This raises the issue of how the whole system should colleges and, to the maximum extent possible, operate. Should it operate through a complex series should be free to run the colleges under Statewide of delegations that come down from the top and find guidelines laid down by the government. their way through the many bodies to the people in the colleges operating in the field, or should there be We are moving into an era when training will be a more decentralised system under which colleges provided not only by colleges of TAPE but also by are given more power and flexibility? In the course private colleges, which will operate in competition of the second-reading speech the Minister with TAPE colleges, and by private industry, acknowledged the issue and addressed it in the through both in-house training and the training of context of the appointment of directors of colleges. people who are not necessarily employed by the particular companies concerned. When this legislation originally passed through the House it contained provisions that related to the That approach has been supported by almost every appointment of directors. The coalition put forward inquiry that has examined the issue of TAPE colleges the view that directors ought to be employed and training. I shall give the House some indication directly by the college councils; it regarded that as of the views expressed on training by various being consistent with the view that the councils committees of inquiry. Recently State and Federal should operate colleges. If that is to be done Ministers with responsibility for TAPE colleges and effectively, the principals of the colleges - namely, training commissioned a review, as a result of which the directors - ought to be directly responsible to the Commonwealth-State Advisory Committee was the councils. asked to send a mission overseas to study developments in training. Because the government acknowledged in part the force of that argument, by the time the Bill was The findings of the review, which were published at passed its provisions acknowledged the need for the end of 1990, state that most overseas education directors to be accountable to the councils, even and training systems exhibit two major features. One though the directors continued to be appOinted by is the clear separation of policy and delivery the government - in effect, from the centre. The mechanisms, and the other is the emphasis on local Minister gave an undertaking that the parties would as distinct from centralised decision making and be given an opportunity to address the appointment management. The overseas mission observed that of directors at a later stage - and in his the principal advantage of such an approach is that second-reading speech the Minister invited government training authorities are not hamstrung comment on the issue. by problems that arise from having vested interests in delivery systems. Therefore government training It is appropriate that that be done by a delegation of authorities are free to foster competitive and functions because the issue directly raises the market-driven vocational, education and training question of the relationships not only between the systems. centre, the colleges and the directors but also between the centre, the college councils, the INDEX

Autumn 1992 - VOLS 406, 407

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

(Bills are listed alphabetically under "Bills" and questions on notice are listed in numerical sequence at end of index)

A Altona - Chemical complex agreement, q 669. Mobil refinery upgrade, q 900. Abattoirs -Camperdown dispute,249,256. Ambulance Services -In north-eastern Victoria, Accident Compensation Commission - WorkCare q 838. Review, 1153, 1155. reports, 12, 1170. Animals - Leadbeater's possum, q 114. Kangaroos in Administrative Arrangements - Orders: Nos 98 to Chiltern Regional Park, 193, 198. Dobennan dogs, 478,479. Feral, 716, 720, q 783, q 946. Raid on dingo 102, 12; Nos 103 and 104,209; Nos 105 to 108,906. farm, q 837. Flora and fauna studies, q 1012. Advertising - Alcohol, 831, 834. Government Registration of cats, 1169. Jirrahlinga All Pets programs, q 1328. Boarding and Wildlife Sanctuary, 1226, 1228. (See also "Conservation and Environment'') Aged Services - Apprentices - Business training seminars, q 785. General - Seniors Card, q 115. Senior Citizens Week, q 151. Church and charity registration fees, q 837, Arts, The - Secret Treasures of Russia exhibition, 625, q 1164. 626. Nursing Homes - Queen Elizabeth Geriatric Centre, 27,36. CAM/SAM funding, q 205. Private, 271, q 904. Yarraman psychogeriatric, q 671, 767, 774. Ashman, Hon. G. B. (Boronia) Ovens and Murray Home for the Aged, 772, 775. Burnley Private, q 945, q 1100, q 1102, q 1104, Companion Animals Bill, 905. q 1105, 1169. Industrial dispute, q 1100. Entertainment and Modelling Industry Agents Bill, 1273. Agriculture (See "Food and Agriculture, Department Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, 987. of',) Harrods Furniture Pty Ltd - Employment practices, 1094. AIDS (See "Health - Diseases'') Housing Guarantee Fund - Registration of builders, q 481. Air Services - Airlines merger, q 1162. Industrial Relations (Enterprise Bargaining) Bill, 1483. Albury-Wodonga Development Corporation­ Industrial Relations (Superannuation Enforcement) Ministerial Council meeting dates, 770, 773. BilI,1217. Appointments, q 1011. Labour, Department of - Harrods Furniture Pty Ltd, 1094. Alcohol - Prices, 831,834. AdvertiSing, 834. Abuse, q 1434. Petitions - Companion Animals Bill, 905. Port of Melbourne Authority (Amendment) Bill, 796, Aluminium Smelters of Victoria Pty Ltd - Proposed 798. sale of Portland smelter, q 839. Questions on Notice - Answers, 116. (2) INDEX

Roads Corporation - Inner-city clearway provisions, Baxter, Hon. W. R. (North Eastern) 718. Intersection at Henderson and Ferntree Gully Albury-Wodonga Development Corporation - roads, 768. Ministerial Council meeting dates, 770. Small Claims Tribunal - Administration, q 1329. Appointments, q lOll. State Electricity Commission - Sale of Loy Yang B Auditor-General- Report on Bayside project, 1442. power station, 193. Crimes (Culpable Driving) Bill, 809. Financial Institutions (Victoria) Bill, 1338. Asia - Exports to, q 666. Fire and Emergency Services (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, 813, 817, 819, 820. Asset Collateralized Equity Ltd, q 1430. Gas and Fuel Corporation - Corporatisation, q 629, q 665, q 727, q 780, q 1428. Audit of Standards of Treatment and Care in Grain Elevators (Amendment) Bill, 710. Psychiatric Hospitals, 733, 787. Heritage Rivers Bill, 613, 620. Auditor-General- Perfonnance audit, 191. Reports: Hospitals - Private for Wangaratta, 28. Clinical fire protection, q 438, 441; Ministerial portfolios, 733; audit of psychiatric, q 567. integrated education for children with disabilities, Legislative Council- Housekeeper, 1504. 786; Bayside project, 1435, 1436. Role, q 898, q 941, Major Projects - Bayside, q 2, q 40, 1442. q 1009, q 1099, q 1158. Melbourne University (YCAH) Bill, 965. Aurora Gold Mine, 1003, 1006. Ministry, The - Ministerial responsibility: Minister Assisting the Minister for Manufacturing and Australian and Overseas Telecommunications Industry Development on Corporatisation, q 145. Corporation, q 728. (See also "Manufacturing and Mission Energy, q 204, q 26l. Industry Development" and "Telecom Australia") Municipalities - Road funding, q 835. General Australian Associated Motor Insurers Ltd - Vehicle purpose grants, 889. Rating of Loy Yang B power impact standards, 100, 106. station, q 1100. National Parks (Wilderness) Bill, 1316. Australian Cement Ltd, Geelong - Gas tariffs, q 1432. Planning - Fawkner planning scheme amendment, 673. Australian Communications and Computing Institute, q 263. Port of Melbourne Authority - Bayside project, q 2, q 40, 1442. Russian contract, q 107. East Swanson Australian Defence Industries - Benalla project, q 5. Dock, q 436, q 483, q 1162. World Trade Centre, q 1233. Australian Football League -Great Southern Stand, Port of Melbourne Authority (Amendment) BiJI, 794, 769. Admission prices, 1092,1095. 798,799. Road Safety (Licence Cancellation) Bill, 967, 972. Australian Hospitals Association - Health Ministers conference, 253, 258. School Education - Teacher transfers, 97. State Electricity Commission - Private Australian Loan Council - Guidelines, q 836. hydro-electric scheme, Koetong, 192. Sale of Loy Yang B power station, q 204, q 261, q 1100. Australian Medical Association - Bulk billing, q 1234. Corporatisation, q 629, q 665, q 727, q 780, q 1428. Victoria Grants Commission - Allocations, 889. Australian Newsprint Mills - De-inking plant, 949. Water (Rural Water Corporation) Bill, 1420. Australian Paper Manufacturers - Pulp and paper mill, Maryvale, q 433. De-inking plant, 949. Bayside Project - q 1, q 4, q 6, q 8, q 9, q 39, q 41, Australian Private Hospitals Association - Health q 668, 1435, 1436. Ministers conference, 253, 258. Beaumaris - Heathland, 101, 103. A viation (See "Air Services'')

B Best, Hon. R. A. (North Western) Aboriginal Land (Manatunga Land) Bill, 759. Banks - Banking Industry Working Group, q 487, Birds - Freckled duck, q 486. q 902. Credit card transaction fees, q 1104. Companion Animals Bill, 905. Banyule Homestead, 624, 626,1227,1228. Dangerous Goods - Storage of radioactive waste, q 1234, q 1328. Barwon South West Women's Health Service, 312, 315. Egg Industry (Amendment) Bill, 1411. Extractive Industries - Chew ton quarry licence, 939. Golden Aluminium, Bendigo, 253. Government Appointments, Committee - Minister for Transport, 67. Second interim report, 473. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (3)

Health - Testing of imported food products, q 669. reading, 39; second reading, 120,214; Committee, Victorian Health System Review, 856. Storage of 221; remaining stages, 223. radioactive waste, q 1234, q 1328. Classification of Films and Publications (Amendment> Hospitals - Bush nursing, 639. Bill- Introduction and first reading, 733; second Housing -Government home finance schemes, 739. reading, 733, 1046; remaining stages, 1050. Industrial Relations (Enterprise Bargaining) Bill, 1475. Classification of Films and Publications (Amendment> Bill Industrial Relations (Superannuation Enforcement) (No. 2) - Introduction and first reading, 762; Bill,1210. second reading, 764, 1080; Committee, 1085; third reading, 1086. Manufacturing and Industry Development - Textile, clothing and footwear, Collingwood Land (Victorill Park) Bill - Received from q943. Assembly and first reading, 835; second reading, 906, 1058, 1066; declared private Bill, 1055; motion Ministerial Statements - Victorian Health System to treat as public Bill agreed to, 1056; dissent Review, 856. recorded, 1056; Committee, 1079; third reading, Petitions - Companion Animals Bill, 90S. 1080. Public Transport - Subway at Castlemaine, 142. Companion Animals Bill - Received from Assembly Racing (Further Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, and first reading, 876; second reading, 950. 1415. Constitution (Governor's Salary) Bill- Received from RSPCA - Raid on dingo farm, q 837. Assembly and first reading, 577; second reading, Victorian Health System Review,856. 584; third reading, 585. Youth - Kids on the Brink program, Bendigo, 891. Constitution (Independence of Judges and Public Officers) Bill - Second reading, 24; second-reading motion negatived, 26. Bills - Adjournment 11, 786, 1505. Crimes and Juries (Amendment> Bill- Introduction and first reading, 440; second reading, 527, 799; Bills- Committee, 804; remaining stages, 805. Aboriginalumd (Manatunga Land) Bill - Received Crimes (Blood Samples) (Clarification) Bill - Second from Assembly and first reading, 474; S;,eCond reading, 291; Committee, 293; third reading, 296. reading, 526, 757; second-reading motion agreed Crimes (Culpable Driving) Bill- Introduction and first to by absolute majority, 760; Committee, 760; third reading, 576; second reading, 656, 805; third reading, 761; third-reading motion agreed to by reading, 809. absolute majority, 762. Crimes (Family Violence) (Further Amendment> Bill - Accident Compensation (Further Amendment) Bill - Introduction and first reading, 762; second Received from Assembly and first reading, 1157; reading, 765, 1362; Committee, 1367; remaining second reading, 1181, 1358; second-reading stages, 1368. motion agreed to by absolute majority, 1361; Crimes (Forensic Procedures) Bill- Introduction and Committee, 1361; third-reading motion agreed to first reading, 762; second reading, 789. by absolute majority, 1362. Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances (Further Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Bill - Second Amendment> Bill- Introduction and first reading, reading, 129; Committee, 595; suggested 1169; second reading, 1512. amendments dealt with, 1507; remaining stages, Education (Further Amendment> Bill-Committee, 1507. 1088; remaining stages, 1090. Agricultural Industry Development (Tomato Processing) Education (Out of School Education) Bill - Withdrawn, BiII- Received from Assembly and first reading, 127. 1489; second reading, 1514; remaining stages, 1520. Egg Industry (Amendment) Bill- Received from Alpine Resorts (Amendment) BilI- Introduction and Assembly and first reading, 1157; second reading, first reading, 762; second reading, 788, 1119, 1192; 1180, 1410; remaining stages, 1412. Committee, 1198; third reading, 1198. Entertainment and Modelling Industry Agents Bill - Approprilltion (July to October) Bill - Received from Second reading, 1264. Withdrawn, 1275. Assembly and first reading, m; second reading, 788, 1253, 1514; remaining stages, 1514. Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill­ Second reading, 922, 974, 987; Committee, 1121; Audit (Amendment) Bill (No. 2) - Received from remaining stages, 1151. Assembly and first reading, 433; second reading, 661,820. Fair Trading (Environmental Labelling) Bill- Received from Assembly and first reading, 1157; second Bank Integration Bill - Received from Assembly and reading, 1179. first reading, 1489; second reading, 1508; remaining stages, 1509. Financial Institutions (Victoria) Bill - Received from Assembly and first reading, 1099; second reading, Banking (Premium Accounts) BilI- Received from 1184, 1333; second-reading motion agreed to by Assembly and first reading, 1489; second reading, absolute majority, 1340; Committee, 1340; 1509; remaining stages, 1512. remaining stages, 1344. Building Control (Further Amendment) Bill - Received Fire and Emergency Services (Miscellaneous from Assembly and first reading, 1157; second Amendments) Bill- Received from Assembly and reading, 1178, 1408; remaining stages, 1410. first reading, 567; second reading, 578, 810; Chiropractors and Osteopaths (Amendment> Bill Committee, 817; third reading, 820. (No. 2) - Received from Assembly and first (4) INDEX

Fishmts (Further Amendment) Bill - Received from Monash University (Plulrmtlcy College) Bill - Received Assembly and first reading, 201; second reading, from Assembly and first reading, 520; second 213, 587; remaining stages, 594. reading, 577, 703; passed remaining stages, 709. Grain Elevators (Amendment) Bill - Received from National Parks (Wilderness) Bill - Received from Assembly and first reading, 529; second reading, Assembly and first reading, 1051; second reading, 581,710; remaining stages, 714. 1109, 1293; Committee, 1319; remaining stages, Health Acts (Revision) BilI- Introduction and first 1323. reading, 762; second reading, 762. National Tennis Centre (Amendment> Bill - Received Heritage Rivers Bill - Received from Assembly and from Assembly and first reading, 192; second first reading, 296; second reading, 296, 600; reading, 211, 658; third reading, 659. Committee 617; remaining stages, 624. Parliamentary Committees (Amendment) Bill (No. 2) - Hospitals and Clulrities (Extension) Bill - Received Introduction and first reading, 841; second from Assembly and first reading, 296; second reading, 841, 1237; remaining stages, 1242. reading, 298, 529; third reading, 530. Partnership (Limited Partnerships) Bill- Received Industrilll Relations (Enterprise Bargaining) Bill­ from Assembly and first reading, 941; second Received from Assembly and first reading, 897; reading, 958, 1282; Committee, 1285; third second reading, 955, 1462; remaining stages, 1489. reading, 1289. Industrial Relations (Superannuation Enforcement) Police (lndustrilll Functions) Bill - Second reading, Bill- Received from Assembly and first reading, 127; Committee, 127; remaining stages, 129. 897; second reading, 954, 1210; Committee, 1275; Port of Melbourne Authority (Amendment) Bill - remaining stages, 1276. Introduction and first reading, 576; second Legal Aid Commission (Amendment) Bill (No. 2) - reading, 661, 794; Committee, 797; third reading, Received from Assembly and first reading, 1157; 799. second reading, 1188, 1389; Committee, 1391; Public Account (Further Amendment) Bill- Received remaining stages, 1393. from Assembly and first reading, 433; second Libraries (Amendment) Bill- Received from reading, 659. Reference to Economic and Budget Assembly and first reading, 192; second reading, Review Committee, 879. 212,531,585; remaining stages, 587. Resubmitted Racial and Religious Vilification Bill - Introduction second and third-reading motions agreed to by and first reading, 950; second reading, 1053. absolute majority, 595. Racing (Further Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill - Liquor Control (Further Amendment) Bill - Received from Assembly and first reading, 1157; Introduction and first reading, 576; second second reading, 1182, 1412; third reading, 1415. reading, 686. Road Safety (Licence Cancellation) Bill- Introduction Local Government (Elections) Bill-Second reading, and first reading, 762; second reading, 791,967; 223; Committee, 233; third reading, 247. Committee, 9n; remaining stages, 974. Local Government (Financial) Bill - Received from Royal Melbourne Hospital (Redevelopment) Bill - Assembly and first reading, 897; second reading, Received from Assembly and first reading, 1003; 952,1201; third reading, 1210. second reading, 1112, 1393; second-reading Loy Yang B BiII- Received from Assembly and first motion agreed to by absolute majority, 1399; third reading, 1157; second reading, 1189, 1368; dissent reading, 1399; third-reading motion agreed to by recorded, 1388; Committee, 1399; suggested absolute majority, 1399. amendments dealt with, 1507; remaining stages, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology Bill­ 1507. Received from Assembly and first reading, 1009; Magistrates' Court (Costs) Bill-Second reading, 122; second reading, 1086, 1276; second-reading Committee, 125; remaining stages, 126. motion agreed to by absolute majority, 1281; Medical Treatment (Agents) Bill-Second reading, Committee, 1281; third-reading motion agreed to 299; Committee, 1113; remaining stages, 1119. by absolute majority, 1282. Melbourne Lands and Market Sites (Amendment) BilI­ State Electricity (Amendment) Bill-Second reading, Second reading, 958; second and third-reading 22; Committee, 23; remaining stages, 24. motions agreed to by absolute majority, 1323. State Electricity Commission (Minimum Energy Melbourne Market and Park Lands Bill-Second Efficiency Levels) Bill - Introduction and first reading, 957; second and third-reading motions reading, 686; second reading, 754. agreed to by absolute majority, 1323. Superannuation (Occupational Superannuation Melbourne University (VCAH) Bill - Received from Standards) Bill - Received from Assembly and Assembly and first reading, n7; second reading, first reading, 1086; second reading, 1111, 1290; 792, 907, 959; second-reading motion agreed to by Committee, 1291; remaining stages, 1293. absolute majority, 967; Committee, 1198; Supply (1992-93, No. 1) Bill - Received from suggested amendments dealt with, 1507; Assembly and first reading, n3; second reading, third-reading motion agreed to by absolute 755,912,990,1489, 1514; concurrent debate, 757; majority, 1507. third reading, 1514. Melbourne Water Corporation Bill - Received from Swinburne University of Technology Bill- Received Assembly and first reading, 1099; second reading, from Assembly and first reading, 1003; second 1171, 1451; dissent recorded, 1458; Committee, reading, 1051, 1344; second-reading motion agreed 1458; remaining stages, 1462. to by absolute majority, 1357; Committee, 1357; LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (5)

third-reading motion agreed to by absolute Gas and Fuel Corporation -Corporatisation, q 627, majority, 1358. q 665, q 723, q 727. Comments of chainnan, q 777. Treasury Corporation of Victoria Bill - Received from Government Appointments Committee - Second Assembly and first reading, 1157; second reading, interim report, 468. 1332. Government Departments and Instrumentalities - Vermin and Noxious Weeds (Poison Baits) BilI­ Enhanced resignation packages, q 151. Received from Assembly and first reading, 107; Corporatisation, q 627, q 665, q 723, q 727. second reading, 121,442; Committee, 530, 583; Health Department Victoria - Enhanced resignation remaining stages, 584. packages, q 151. Victorian Supply Seroice BilI- Received from Hospitals -Clinical audit of psychiatric, q 568. Assembly and first reading, 474; second reading, Heritage Rivers Bill, 600, 618, 619, 620, 622, 623, 624. 663. Legislative Council - Housekeeper, 1504. Vocational Education and Training (Amendment) BiIl­ Second reading, 687; second-reading motion Liquor Licensing Commission - Appointments, agreed to by absolute majority, 702. q 114. Water (Elections) BiIl- Assembly amendment dealt Major Projects - Bayside, q 1, q 6, q 9, q 39, 1436, with,879. 1450. Water (Rural Water Corporation) Bill - Received from Melbourne Lands and Market Sites (Amendment) Assembly and first reading, 1079; second reading, Bill, 1323. 1173,1416; second-reading motion agreed to by Melbourne Market and Park Lands Bill, 1323. absolute majority, 1423; Committee, 1423; Mission Energy, q 201. third-reading motion agreed to by absolute Mount Buffalo Chalet, q 487. majority, 1426. National Parks (Wilderness) Bill, 1293, 1320, 1321, Works and Seroices (Ancillary Provisions, 1992-93, 1322. No. 1) BiIl- Received from Assembly and first reading, 723; second reading, 756, 912, 990, 1489, Parliamentary Committees (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), 841, 1241. 1514; concurrent debate, 757; remaining stages, 1514. Parliament House - Smoking policy, 1506. Petitions - Victoria Park agreement, 576. Bio-Molecular Institute, q 263. Point Hicks Lighthouse, q 835. Points of Order - Selective quoting, 54. Questions: Birds - Freckled duck, q 486, q 488. Migratory wader, redirection, 111; scope, 724, 778. Offensive q 571. (See also "Conservation and Environment") remarks, 726, 1448. Amendments, 1122. Reflection on Auditor-General, 1159, 1160. Port of Melbourne Authority - Bayside project, q 1, Birrell, Hon. M. A. (East Yarra) q 6, q 9, q 39. Russian contract, q 107. Aged Services - Burnley Private Nursing Home, Questions on Notice - Answers, 1167. q 1102, q 1104. State Electricity Commission - Sale of Loy Yang B Air Services - Airlines merger, q 1162. power station, q 201. Corporatisation, q 627, q 665, Auditor-General- Reports: fire protection, q 438; q 723, q 727. Bayside, project, 1436, 1450. Unions - Grants, 512. Australian Paper Manufacturers - Pulp and paper Urban Land Authority - Land purchases, 1017. mill, Maryvale, q 433. Bills - Adjournment, 11, 786. Business of the House - Sittings, 442, 777. BLF Custodian - Reports: Nos 17 and 18,12; No. 19, 1170. Collingwood Football Club - Victoria Park agreement, 576. Boating - Mooring fees, q 435. Conservation and Environment- Department - Restructure, q 1015. Communications Budget - Report on Estimates, 13. system, q 1232, q 1235, q 1325. Advertising campaign, q 1427. Building Societies - Interest rates, 1094. General - Sale of Crown land, q 267. Mount Buffalo Business Advice to Rural Areas - q 48, q 206, q 486, Chalet, q 487. Freckled duck, q 488. Point Hicks q 575. lighthouse, q 835. Constitution Centenary Foundation, 442. Business of the House - Presentation of reports, 11, Corporatisation - Government trading enterprises, 22, 51. Notices of Motion, 271. Sittings, 442, 777. q 627, q 665, q 723, q 727. Interjections, 489. Use of correct titles, 634. Credit Tribunal - Appointment of chairperson, Adjournment debate: scope, 893. Sessional Orders, q 113, q 114. 986, 1078, 1157. Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, 922, 1121, 1122, 1123, 1124, 1125, 1126, 1127, 1128, 1129,1130,1131,1134,1135,1137,1138,1140,1141, 1142, 1143, 1144, 1145, 1146, 1147, 1148, 1149, 1150,1151. (6) INDEX

c Health - Drug shortages, 252. Human embryos, 1016,1435. Cemeteries - Land at Pakenham, 250, 258, 624, 626, Hospitals - Bush nursing, 648. 768,774. Proposed burials at Lake Corangamite, Library Services - For VCE students, 140. 'q 669. Livestock Market Reporting Service, 1005. Magistrates' Court (Costs) Bill, 124. Mission Energy, q 203, q 263. Chairman of Committees, The (Hon. K. I. M. Wright) Municipalities - Rulings and Statements- Camberwell- Administration, q 948. Debate - Amendments, 1122. Relevancy of remarks, Grenville - Ballarat-Skipton railway reserve, 1092. 1291. Petitions - Human embryos, 1016, 1435. Reference Rulings and statements as Acting President - to Standing Orders Committee, 1451. 828, 891, 893. Adjournment Debate - Scope, Scope. Points of Order - Question must not seek opinion, 7. of point of order, 832. Selective quoting, 54. Offensive remarks, 65, 455. Audit of Standards of Treatment and Care in Reflections on decision of House, 90. Telephone Psychiatric Hospitals, 787. infonnation service, 439. Incorporation of Auditor-General- Report on integrated education material, 462. Government Appointments for children with disabilities, 786. Committee, 832. Debate - Member must address chair, 938. Portland Smelter Unit Trust - Proposed sale, q 839. Identification of document, 938. Ports - Mooring fees, q 435. Distinguished Visitors, 782. Premier and Cabinet, Department of the - Hospitals - Audit of standards of treatment and Destruction of records, 829. care in psychiatric, 787. School Education - VCE library resources, 140. Joint Sittings of Parliament - Deakin University, Standing Orders Committee - Petitions, 1451. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and State Electricity Commission - Sale of Loy Yang B Swinburne University of Technology, 939. power station, q 203, q 263. Questions without Notice - Interjections 780, 840. r Toyota Motor Corporation Australia Ltd - Union Debating, 573, 628, 898. Scope, 778, 903. bans, q 1010. Rulings and statements as Deputy President - Urban Land Authority - Land purchases, 1020. Adjournment Debate - Interjections, 256. Only one Vennin and Noxious Weeds (Poison Baits) Bill, 442, matter may be raised, 475. Scope, 1006, 1093, 1225. 530. Relevancy of remarks, 1092. Wildlife Regulations 1992, 1225. Bills - Absolute majorities, 585, 594, 1323, 1423, 1426. Business of the House - Use of correct titles, 634. Debate - Interjections, 500, 1070, 1309. Remarks: Children's Protection Society - Alys Key Family relevancy, 617, 1077, 1223, 1307; offensive, 1220, Care program, 97. 1448,1476; withdrawal, 1221; unparliamentary, 1222. Quoted material, 1074. Audible Collingwood Football Club - Membership, q 7, 575. conversation, 1076. Tedious repetition, 1224. Victoria Park agreement, 576. Joint Sittings of Parliament - Deakin University, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and Community Affairs (See ''Ethnic, Municipal and Swinburne University of Technology, 1065. Community Affairs") Questions without Notice - Interjections, 573. Community Services - (See also "Wright, Hon. K.I. M. (North Western)") Children - Children's Protection Society Alys Key Family Care program, 97. (See also ''Youth'') Chamberlain, Hon. B. A. (Western) Intellectual Disability Services - Security accommodation for youth, 255. (See also Boating - Mooring fees, q 435. "Handicapped Persons" and "Health - Mental Building Control (Further Amendment) Bill, 1408. Health'') Conservation and Environment - Crown land: rentals, 27; Lang-Koop school site, 474. Companion Animals Bill, 905, 949. Communications system, q 1326. Crime - Bureau of crime statistics, 524. Crimes (Blood Samples) (Clarification) Bill, 293. Connard, Hon. C. P. (Higinbotham) Crimes (Family Violence) (Further Amendment) Bill, Aged Services - Private nursing homes, 282. 1365. Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Bill, 599. Government Appointments Committee - First Beaumaris Heathland, 101. Interim report, 13. Minister for Transport, 52, 94. Chiropractors and Osteopaths (Amendment) Bill Adjournment of debate, 90. Second interim report, (No. 2),217. 209,464. Companion Animals Bill, 949. Government Departments and Instrumentalities­ Destruction of records, 829. Consumer Affairs - Alcohol advertising, 831. LEGIS LA TIVE COUNCIL (7)

Croatian Community Welfare Association of 313,314; voluntary agreement, q 669. Zumstein Victoria, 1091. Park camping grounds, 310, 314. Four-wheel drive Fisheries (Further Amendment) Bill, 593. vehicles: levy, 475, 479; Tread Lightly program, Health - Victorian Health System Review, 864. q 487. Resource Assessment Commission report, Acupuncture, 1152. q 484. 488. Mount Buffalo Chalet, q 487. Environment handbook for small industries, HMVS Cerberus, 477. q 489. Banyule Homestead, 624, 626, 1227, 1228. Hospital Benefits Association Ltd - Merger, 890. Salinity: Saltwatch program, q 630; Goulburn Hospitals - Annual reports, 28. Monash Medical Valley drylands, q 1233. Greenhouse gas Centre, 52. Bush nursing, 650. Heidelberg emissions, q 781. Cranbourne Botanic Gardens, Repatriation, m. 828, 832. Point Hicks lighthouse, q 835. Raid on Manufacturing and Industry dingo farm, q 837. Wonnangatta station, q 839. Development - Appointment of deputy Mountain grazing licences, q 900, q 903. Toorour director-general, 255. Forest Lodge, 1004, 1007. Flora and fauna studies, q 1012. Blue-green algae, q 1014. World Melbourne Water - Accounts, 625. Environment Week, q 1103. Snowsafe, q 1166. Ministerial Statements - Victorian Health System Contaminated sites, q 1327. (See also "Animals", Review, 864. ''Birds'' and ''Earth Summit'') Monash University (Pharmacy College) Bill, 705. Mutual Community Ltd - Merger, 890. Consumer Affairs - Parliament of Victoria Committee - Third progress General- Vehicle impact standards, 100, 106. report, 1169. Labelling of toys, 193, 199. Prepaid funerals, q 269. Petitions - Monash Medical Centre, 52. Companion Increases in business fees, q 633. Uniform credit Animals Bill, 949. legislation, q 730. Regional trade measurement Points of order - Tabling of reports, 5I. authorities, q 783. Alcohol advertiSing, 831,834. Port Phillip Bay - Artificial reef, 143. Washing machine repair companies, q 84I. Commercial tenants, 892. Weight loss centres, Questions on Notice - Answers, 116. q 1235. Bunk beds, q 1331. Roads Corporation - Intersection at Chesterville Ministry - Telephone information service, q 439, Road and Bernard Street, Cheltenham North, 1225. q 1233. Adjudication branch, q 840. Use of car by Royal Melbourne Hospital (Redevelopment) Bill, director, q 902. Consumer tribunals, q 1013. (See 1397. also "Prices" and "Residential Tenancies School Education - Brighton Bay Secondary College Tribunal") site, 311. Primary Schools: Valkstone, 718; Moorabbin West Primary School, 1003. Constitution Centenary Foundation, 442. Social Development Committee - Report on mental disturbance and community safety, 634. Coode Island - Landy report, q 262, 310, 313, 314. Universities - Places, 184. Medical student numbers, Voluntary agreement, q 669. 195. Corporatisation -Government trading enterprises, Victorian Health System Review, 864. q 43, q 111, q 145, q 205, q 208, q 574, q 627, q 629, q 630, q 631, q 665, q 666, q 670, q 723, q 727, q 729, q 732, q 780, q 1158, 1331, q 1428. Conservation and Environment - Department - Commercial forests project, q 784, 893. County Court Judges - Report, 786. Appointments, 1005, 1007, 1152, 1154. Restructure, q 1015. State Conservation Strategy, 1170. Communications system, q 1232, q 1235, q 1325, Cox, Hon. G. H. (Nunawading) q 1326. Advertising campaign, q 1427, q 1429. Animals - Doberman dogs, 478. General - Oyster cultivation in Swan Bay Marine Consumer Affairs - Vehicle impact standards, 100. and Wildlife Reserves, q 8. Sale of spray carts, 27, Increases in business fees, q 633. Regional trade 34. Crown land: rentals, 27, 35, 887, 894; sale, measurement authorities, q 783. Ministry: q 267, 475, 479; Lang-Koop school site, 474, 479; adjudication branch, q 840; use of car by director, Ballarat-Skipton railway reserve, 1092, 1095. q 902; consumer tribunals, q 1013. Dandenong Ranges: picnic areas, 34, 36; land Grampians (Gariwerd) - Zumstein Park camping purchase program, 143, 144; conservation, q 436. grounds, 310. Jobs: council on fibre processing and sustainable development, q 44; funding by Priority Victoria, House Contracts Guarantee Act - Scope, 769. q 266, q 839, 1005, 1007, 1152, 1154. Alpine Liquor Licensing Commission - Appointments, Advisory Committee, q 47. Woodchipping by q 111, q 147. Midway Pty Ltd, 99, 103. Beaumaris heathland, Residential Tenancies Tribunal- Delays, q 265. 101, 103. Classification of saw logs, q 115. Mount Appointments, q 440, q 1166. Prosecutions, q 482. Disappointment State Forest, 142, 144. Artificial School Education - Life education centres, 33. reef for Port Phillip Bay, 143, 144. Hotham Chalet site, 143. Recycling and waste management, q 150, Small Claims Tribunal - Delays, q 265. q 1429. Private hydro-electric scheme, Koetong, Appointments, q 440, q 1166. 192,198. Coode Island: Landy report, q 262, 310, (8) INDEX

Coxsedge, Hon. Joan (Melbourne West) Social Development Committee - Report on motorcycle safety, 153. Aged Services - Nursing homes: State Electricity Commission - Sale of Loy Yang B power station, q 485. CAM/SAM funding, q 205. Toorour Forest Lodge, 1004. Conservation and Environment - Migratory wader Unions -Grants, 517. birds, q 571. Victorian Health System Review, 868. Consumer Affairs - Telephone information service, q 439. Washing machine repair companies, q 841. Weight loss centres, q 1235. Cranboume Botanic Gardens, 828, 832. Environment Protection Authority - Contaminated sites, q 1327. Health - Medicare, q 3. Crawford, Hon. G. R. (Jika Jika) Hospitals - Productivity gains, q 947. Universities - Places, 181. Legal and Constitutional Committee - Report on Unions -Grants, 514. Witness Protection Act, SO. Manufacturing and Industry Development - Commercial building energy code, q 1101. Credit - Uniform legislation, q 730. Card transaction Seniors Card, q 115. fees, q 1104. Small Business Development Corporation - Green Directory, q 152. Credit Tribunal- Appointment of chairperson, q 113, Women - Small business forum, q 672. Industry q 114, 153. restructuring, q 732. Croatian Community Welfare Association of Victoria, Youth - National policy, q 905. 1091,1094.

Crime (See ''Victoria Police'') Craige, Hon. G. R. (Central Highlands) Alpine Resorts (Amendment) Bill, 1119,1198. o Animals - Registration of cats, 1169. Australian Football League - Great Southern Stand, Dandenong Ranges - Picnic areas, 34, 36. Land 769. purchase program, 143, 144. Conservation, q 436. Conservation and Environment - Mount Disappointment State Forest, 142. Four-wheel Dangerous Goods - Landy report on Coode Island, drive vehicle levy, 475. Priority Victoria job q 262, 310, 313, 314. Altona: chemical complex funding, 1152. agreement, q 669; Mobil refinery upgrade, q 899. Storage of radioactive waste, q 1234, q 1328. Consumer Affairs - Labelling of toys, 193. Contaminated sites, q 1327. (See also "Conservation Entertainment and Modelling Industry Agents Bill, and Environment") 1264. Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, 988. Daratech Pty Ltd - Report, 441. Government Appointments Committee - Minister for Transport, 83. Heritage Rivers Bill, 612. Davidson, Hon. B. E. (Chelsea) Health - Victorian Health System Review, 868. Banks - Credit card transaction fees, q 1104. Hospitals - Bush nursing, 653. In northern suburbs, Conservation and Environment - Resource q903. Assessment Commission report, q 484. Industrial Relations (Superannuation Enforcement) Gambling - Gaming machines, q 7. Bill, 1212,1275, 1462. Government Appointments Committee - Minister Labour, Department of - Occupational health and for Transport, 62. Second interim report, 468. safety regulations, 311. Hospitals - Royal Children's, q 40. Monash Medical Libraries (Amendment) Bill, 586. Centre: Moorabbin campus, 98. Local Government Commission - Chairman, q 634. Industrial Relations (Superannuation Enforcement) Ministerial Statements - Victorian Health System Bill,1215. Review, 868. Manufacturing and Industry Development - Food Motor Car Traders Guarantee Fund - Fees, 1227. processing, q 146, q 629. Telecommunications, q 728. Textile, clothing and footwear, q 942, q 1428. Petitions - Registration of cats, 1169. Information technology, q 1232. Police (Industrial Functions) Bill, 127. Points of Order - Interjections, 8. Offensive remarks, Public Transport - Student concession cards, 890. 270. Reference to debates in same session, 462. Roads Corporation - Mansfield-Woods Point Road, Port of Melbourne Authority - East Swanson Dock, 1090. q434. School Education - Bus services: State Electricity Commission - Sale of Loy Yang B Craigieburn-Broadmeadows-Pascoe Vale, 251. power station, q 778. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (9)

Victorian Health System Review, q 1328. Dockland. Authority - Port of Melbourne Authority land, 771, 773. (See also ''Ports'') de Fegely, Hon. R. S. (BaJlarat) Drugs - Steroids, 33, 38. Illicit, 194, 198. Geelong rehabilitation program, 254, 259. (See also "Health'') Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Bill, 129,595, 596,597,598,599,600. Duck Hunting - Freckled duck, q 486, q 488. Agricultural Industry Development (Tomato Processing) Bill, 1516 . E Australian Cement Ltd, Geelong -Gas tariffs, q 1432. Earth Summit - Rio de Janeiro, q 781, q 1103. Bills - Adjournment, 1505. Community Services Victoria - Security Economic and Budget Review Committee - Reports: accommodation for intellectually disabled youth, cost of community service obligations, 12; 255. performance audit of Auditor-General, 118; Consumer Affairs, Ministry of - Telephone Parliamentary accountability and debt management, infonnation service, q 1233. 786. Membership, 118. Estimates Subcommittee Egg Industry (Amendment) Bill, 1410. reports: 1991-92 Budget Estimates, 13; World Congress Centre, 1!07, 1242. Fire and Emergency Services (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, 810, 817, 818, 820. Education (See "Employment, Post-Secondary Gas and Fuel Corporation - Tariffs, q 1432. Education and Training" and "School Education'') Government, The - Advertising programs, q 1328. Employment, Post-Secondary Education and Housing - Government home finance schemes, 751. Training- Law Courts - Skipton, 893. Employment - Jobs councils, q 44. Priority Victoria: Points of Order - Ministerial statement, 725. statement, 192; job funding, q 266, q 437, q 839, Prices - Gas, q 1432. 1005, 1007, 1152, 1154, q 1231, q 1325. In Public Record Office -Staff, 717. telecommunications industry, q 569. Harrods School Education - Ararat Secondary College, 773. Furniture Pty Ltd, 1094, 1096. Vermin and Noxious Weeds (Poison Baits) Bill, 454. General - Outer Eastern Group Training Ltd, 476. Post-Secondilry Education - Admission procedures, 29,35. Tertiary places, 154. Nurse education in Defence Service Homes - Merbein, 247, 258. country institutions, q 1164.

Dental Services -Stop-work meeting of employees, Energy (See "Conservation and Environment", "Gas q 781. School, q 942. and Fuel Corporation", "Manufacturing and Industry Development" and "State Electricity Distinguished Visitors, 732, 782, 1366. Commission'')

Divisions - Environment (See "Conservation and Environment'') Aboriginal Land (Manatunga Land) Bill, 761. Bush Nursing Hospitals, 1043. Environment Protection Authority -Contaminated sites, q 1327. Classification of Films and Publications (Amendment) Bill, 1050. Environment Protection (Fees) Regulations 1991,490. Collingwood Land (Victoria Park) Bill, 1078. Constitution (Independence of Judges and Public Officers) Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, 949. BiIl,26. Estimates Subcommittee (See ''Economic and Budget Crimes and Juries (Amendment) Bill, 804. Review Committee'') Crimes (Blood Samples) (ClIlrification) Bill, 296. Entertainment and Modelling Industry Agents Bill, 1274, Ethnic Affairs, Office of - Services: interpreting, 1275. q 440, q 948; translation, q 634. Local Government Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, 1125, Ethnic Affairs Ministerial Advisory Council, q 731. 1141,1145. Health education assistance, q 904. Croatian Community Welfare Association of Victoria, 1091, Heritage Rivers Bill, 620. 1094. The Jews and Italians of Carlton exhibition, Magistrates' Court (Costs) Bill, 126. q 1167. Migrant Skills and Qualifications Board, National Parks (Wilderness) Bill, 1321. 1170. Funding for community-based organisations, Partnership (Limited Partnerships) Bill, 1288. q 1330, q 1433. Select Committee on Government Appointments, 96. Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs­ Tertiary PlIlces, 191. General - Report on cost of community service Trade Union Grants, 520. obligations, 12. Urban Land Authority, 1029. Water (Rural Water Corporation) Bill, 1424. (10) INDEX

Ministry - Priority Victoria statement: local Works and Services (Ancillary Provisions, 1992-93, enterprise development initiative program, q 437. No. 1) Bill, 912. Exports - To Asia, q 966. (See also ''Manufacturing and Industry Development'') Evans, Hon. D. M. (North Eastern) Extractive Industries - Chew ton quarry licence, 939, Aged Services - Ovens and Murray Home for the 940. Aged,In. Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Bill, 135,595, F 596. Alpine Resorts (Amendment) Bill, 1195, 1198. Finance - Debt: management, q 4, q 7, q 145, q 147; Conservation and Environment - Sale of spray equity swap, q 778, q 779. Report on Parliamentary 27. 47. carts, Alpine Advisory Committee, q accountability and debt management, 786. (See also Kangaroos in Chiltern Regional Park, 193. "Corporatisation '') Mountain grazing licences, q 903. Feral, 716, q 783. Flora and fauna studies, q 1012. Fire Protection - Auditor-General's report, q 438, 441. Crime - Bureau of crime statistics, 520, 526. Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, Fishing Industry (See ''Food and Agriculture, 930, 1125, 1134, 1145. Department of - Fishing'') Finance - Debt management, q 7. Food and Agriculture, Department of - Food and Agriculture, Department of - Federal land management kit, 1153. Fishing - Oyster cultivation in Swan Bay Marine and Wildlife Reserves, q 8. Mooring fees, q 435. Forest Interpretative Centre, Toolangi, 251. General - Testing of imported food, q 669. Livestock Government Departments and Instrumentalities - Market Reporting Service, 1005. Federal land Debt management, q 7. management kit, 1153, 1154. Health - Insurance, q 633. Timber - Woodchipping by Midway Pty Ltd, 99, Heritage Rivers Bill, 604, 623. 103. Classification of saw logs, q 115. Resource Industrial Relations (Enterprise Bargaining) Bill, 1487. Assessment Commission report, q 484. Legal and Constitutional Committee - Reports: Commercial forests project, q 784, 893. Logging in outstanding references, 271; Interpretation of Shire of Otway, 1004, 1007. Flora and fauna Legislation Act, 441. studies, q 1012. (See also "Conservation and Environment'') Medical Services - Nurse education in country institutions, q 1164. Food Processing (See ''Manufacturing and Industry Melbourne Water Corporation Bill, 1451, 1458, 1459, Development'') 1460, 1461. Mineral Resources (Health and Safety) Regulations Forest Interpretative Centre, Toolangi - 251,258. 1991, 1017. Freedom of Information - Department of Mount Hotham -Chalet site, 143. Manufacturing and Industry Development, 30, 34. Municipalities - Public access to swimming holes, 309. Wodonga: proposed superannuation levy, Funerals - Prepaid, q 269. q 1429. National Parks (Wilderness) Bill, 1300, 1322. G Parliament House - Smoking policy, 1506. Points of Order - Absolute majorities, 595. Scope of Gambling - Gaming machines, q 7, 575, q 1010. adjournment debate, 722. Relevancy of remarks, Casino for Geelong, q 1166. 1307. Roads Corporation - Snow clearing on alpine roads, Gas and Fuel Corporation - Corporatisation, q 43, 830. q 111, q 145, q 205, q 208, q 574, q 627, q 629, q 630, Rural Water Commission - Funding, 1005. q 631, q 665, q 666, q 670, q 723, q 727, q 729, q 732, q 780, q 1158, q 1428. Public authority dividend, State Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 22, 23. q 667, q 731. Comments of chainnan, q 777, q 779. Supply (1992-93, No. 1) Bill, 912. Securitisation of trade receivables, q 941, q 1430. Trading Hours - Sunday, q 150. Asset Collateralized Equity Ltd, q 1430. Tariffs, Universities - Places, 172. q 1432. Vennin and Noxious Weeds (Poison Baits) Bill, 450. Gem Pier, Williamstown, 892, 893, q 947. Vocational Education and Training (Amendment) Bill,7oo. Geriatric Services (See "Aged Services") Water (Rural Water Corporation) Bill, 1416, 1423, 1424,1425. Golden Aluminium, Bendigo, 253, 257. Wodonga, City of - Proposed superannuation levy, Government, The - Advertising programs, q 1328. q 1429. Wonnangatta Station -Grass slashing, q 839. Government Appointments, Select Committee on - First interim report, 13. Minister for Transport, 52. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (11)

Alleged breach of privilege, 209. Second interim Hospitals - Psychiatric: staff recruitment, q 572. report, 209, 270, 455. Latrobe Regional Commission - Report, q 109. Government Commercial and Trading Enterprises Local Government (Elections) BiIJ, 232. Committee, q 145. Loy Yang B BiIJ, 1379. Manufacturing and Industry Government Departments and Instrumentalities - Development - Undersea electricity cable link, . Debt: management, q 4, q 7, q 145, q 147; equity q 1327. swap, q 778, q 779. Corporatisation, q 43, q 111, Melbourne University (VCAH) Bill, 959, 1200. q 145, q 205, q 208, q 574, q 627, q 629, q 630, q 631, Monash University (Pharmacy College) Bill, 704. q~q~q~qmqmqmqmq~ q 1158, 1331, q 1428. Enhanced resignation packages, National Parks (Wilderness) Bill, 1313. q 151,208. Appointments, 255, 258. Employment of Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology Bill, 1276. union officials, q 629. Destruction of records, 829, State Electricity Commission - Sale of Loy Yang B 832. Securitisation of trade receivables, q 941, q 1430. power station, q 437, q 729, q 900, 1102. Regional power conference, 828. Stockpiling, q 945. Government Employee Housing Authority - Eviction of Colac family, q 207, 718, 722. Swinburne University of Technology Bill, 1347. Supply (1992-93, No. 1) Bill, 1492. Government Trading Enterprises (See "Government Universities - Plac~, 159. Departments and lnstrumentalities") Vocational Education and Training (Amendment) Bill, 692. Works and Services (Ancillary Provisions, 1992-93, Guest, Hon. J. V. C. (Monash) No. 1) Bill, 1492. Classification of Films and Publications (Amendment) Bill, 733, 1049. Classification of Films and Publications Hallam, Hon. R. M. (Western) (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), 10BO. Accident Compensation (Further Amendment) Bill, Collingwood Land (Victoria Park) Bill, 1075. 1358, 1361. Constitution (Governor's Salary) Bill, 584. Appropriation (July to October) Bill, 1253. Constitution (Independence of Judges and Public Asset Collateralized Equity Lld, q 1431. Officers) Bill,24. Audit (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), 821. Crimes and Juries (Amendment) Bill, 799, 804, 805. Auditor-General- Role, q 898, q 941, q 1009, q 1099, Crimes (Culpable Driving) Bill, 805. q 1158. Crimes (Family Violence}(Further Amendment) Bill, Bank Integration Bill, 1508. 1362. Banking (Premium Accounts) Bill, 1509. Economic and Budget Review Committee - Reports: Collingwood Land (Victoria Park) Bill, 1058. cost of community service obligations, 12; Conservation and Environment, Department of- performance audit of Auditor-General, 118; Crown land: sale, 475; rentals, 887. Appointments, Parliamentary accountability and debt 1005. management, 786. Corporatisation - Government trading enterprises, Financial Institutions (Victoria) Bill, 1333. q 43, q 111, q 627, q 725. Health - HlV / AIDS testing, 1091. Economic and Budget Review Committee - Legal Aid Commission (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), Estimates Subcommittee report: World Congress 1389, 1391, 1392. Centre, 1249. Loy Yang B Bill, 1371. Finance - Debt: management, q 4, q 147; equity Magistrates' Court (Costs) Bill, 122, 125, 126. swap,q 778. Partnership (Limited Partnerships) Bill, 1282, 1286, Gas and Fuel Corporation - Corporatisation, q 43, 1287, 1288, 1289. q 111, q 627, q 725. Public authority dividend, Superannuation (Occupational Superannuation q 667. Securitisation of trade receivables, q 1431. Standards) Bill, 1290, 1291, 1292, 1293. Glenelg, Shire of - Union demarcation dispute, 98. Government Departments and Instrumentalities - H Debt: management, q 4, q 147; equity swap, q 778. Corporatisation, q 43, q 111, q 627, q 725. Hall, Hon. P. R. (Gippsland) Hospitals - Clinical audit of psychiatric, q 569. Hamilton Base, 829. Aurora Gold Mine, 1003. Leigh, Shire of - General purpose grants, 1226. Bairnsdale, Shire of - Boundaries, q 265. Local Government (Elections) Bill, 223, 233, 234 235, Education (Further Amendment) Bill, 1089, 1090. 236,237,238,239,240,241,242,243,244,245,246, Education - T AFE admission procedures, 29. 247. Tertiary places, 159. Local Government (Financial) Bill, 1201. Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, 977. Loy Yang B Bill, 1375. Fisheries (Further Amendment) Bill, 591. Melbourne Water -Securitisation of trade Heritage Rivers Bill, 609. receivables, q 1431. (12) INDEX

Mission Energy, q 202, q 206, 252. Smoking by youth, q 1012. Acupuncture, 1152, Moe, City of - WorkCare claim, 28. 1154. Municipalities -General purpose grants, 1226. Mental Health - Resignation of Director, Office of Status of councillors, 28. Tree planting, 309. Road Psychiatric Services, q 206. Psychiatric hospitals: funding, q 481. Accounting standards, 771. Dax House, Geelong, q 264; clinical audit, q 268, Points of Order - Audibility, 1106. q 567, q 568, q 573; mainstreaming programs, 309, 315,888,895, q 897, q 942; roster systems, q 570; Prices - Electricity, q 43, q 111. staff recruitment, q 572; audit of standards of Priority Victoria - A statement on jobs, 1005, q 1231, treatment and care, 733, 787; report on mental q 1325. disturbance and community safety, 51, 634; Public Account (Further Amendment) Bill, 879. qualifications of doctors, q 1433. Patient transport, Roads Corporation - VIC ROADS tender, 98. q 571. Yarraman psychogeriatric nursing home, q 671, 767, 774. State Electricity Commission - Morwell overburden, q 43, q 111. Corporatisation, q 43, q 111, q 627, q 725. Sale of Loy Yang B power station, q 202, Health (Radiation Safety) Regulations 1984, 715, 720, q 206, 252. Securitisation of trade receivables, q 725. q 1431. Health Services Commissioner - Report, 1016. Strategic Research Foundation - Chairman, q 263. Supply (1992-93, No. 1) Bill, 990. Taxation - Financial institutions duty on roll-over Henshaw, D. E. (Geelong) term deposits, 141. Aged Services - Private nursing homes, 279. Unions- Demarcation dispute in the Shire of Glenelg, 98. Barwon South West Women's Health Service, 312. Vermin and Noxious Weeds (Poison Baits) Bill, 444. Conservation and Environment - Leadbeater's possum q 114. Priority Victoria jobs Victoria Grants Commission - Allocations, 1226. funding, q 839. World Environment Week, q 1103. Vistel Ltd - Sale, q 434. Earth Summit - Rio de Janeiro, q 1103. WorkCare -Claim by City of Moe, 28. Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs, Ministry Works and Services (Ancillary Provisions,-1992-93, of - Priority Victoria: local enterprise No. 1) Bill, 990. development initiative program, q 437. World Congress Centre, 1249. Health (Radiation Safety) Regulations 1984, q 725. Hospitals - Psychiatric: Dax House, Geelong, q 264. Housing - Government home finance schemes, Handicapped Persons - Auditor-General's report on 753. integrated education for children with disabilities, Medicare, q 568, q 1160. 786. Access to national parks, q 901. (See also "Community Services - Intellectual Disability Points of Order -Offensive remarks, 1477. Services") Priority Victoria, q 437, q 839. Salinity - Goulburn Valley drylands, q 1233. HillTOds Furniture Pty Ltd - Employment practices, Small Business Development Corporation - 1094,1096. Forum, q 46. Hazardous Materials (See "Dangerous Goods'') Swan Bay Marine and Wildlife Reserves - Oyster cultivation, q 8. Health - Youth - Enterprise program, q 1015. Department Victorill- Enhanced reSignation Rulings and Statements as Acting Chairman - packages, q 151,208. Cemetery land at Pakenham, Debate - Amendments, 619. 250,258,624,626,768,774. Head lice programs, Rulings and Statements as Acting President - 771,775. Prosecution, q 784. Storage of radioactive waste, q 1234, q 1328. Debate - Interjections, 873. Diseases - Breast cancer screening program, 31, 37, q 632. Pediculosis, 771, 775. Cystic fibrosis, q 782. HMVS "Cerberus", 477, 478. HIV / AIDS: assistance to non-English-speaking community providers, q 904; testing, 1091, 1095. Drugs - Shortages, 252, 258. (See also "Drugs'') Hogg, Hon. C. J. (Melbourne North) (Minister for General- Medicare, q 3, q 45, q 568, q 1099, q 1160, Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs) q 1234. Funding: capital, q 49; CAM/SAM, q 205. Ministers conference, 253, 258. Barwon South Aboriginal Land (Manatunga Land) Bill, 474, 526, West Women's Health Service, 315. Human 760,761 embryos, 440, 1016, 1435. Consultative Council on Business Advice to Rural Areas, q 486, q 575. Obstetric and Paediatric Mortality and Morbidity Business of the House - Sessional Orders, 986, 1078. report, 576. Insurance, q 633, q 1231. Testing of Education (Further Amendment) Bill, 1089, 1090. imported food products, q 669. Community health centres, 786, 906. Church and charity registration Education (Out of School Education) Bill, 127. fees, q 837. Latrobe region services, 841. Victorian Ethnic Affairs, Office of - Services: interpreting Health System Review, 841, 843,1043, q 1328. q 440, q 948; translation q 634. Local Government LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (l3)

Ethnic Affairs Ministerial Advisory Council, q 731. q 149, q 1011. Western, q 149. Gippsland, q 149. Croatian Community Welfare Association of Geelong, q 149. Preston and Northcote Community, Victoria, 1094. The Jews and Italians of Carlton q 149. Austin, q 149. Box Hill, q 149. Peter exhibition, q 1167. Funding for community-based MacCallum Cancer Institute, q 149. Enhanced organisations, q 1330, q 1433. resignation packages, q 151. Psychiatric: Dax House, Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs, Ministry Geelong q 264; clinical audit, q 268, q 567, q 568, of - Priority Victoria: local enterprise q 573; mainstreaming programs, 309, 315, 888, 895, development initiative program, q 437. q 897, q 942; roster systems, q 570; staff recruitment, Hospitals and Charities (Extension) Bill, 298, 530. q 572; audit of standards of treatment and care, 733, 787. Medicare agreement, q 568. Bush nursing, 635, Libraries (Amendment) Bill, 192,212. 1030. Heidelberg Repatriation, rn, 775. For cystic Local Enterprise Development Initiative Program, fibrosis patients, q 782. Hamilton Base, 829, 833. q 437. Proposed Whittlesea, 830, 833. Loan council Local Government Commission - Chairman, q 634. guidelines, q 836. In northern suburbs, q 903. Local Government (Elections) Bill, 233,234, 235, 236, Productivity gains, q 947. Proposed Epping, q 1009, 238,239,240,242,243,244,245,246,247. q 1165. Financial performance of public, q 1432. (See also "Health - Mental Health") Local Government (Financial) Bill, 897, 952, 1210. Municipalities - Hotham Chalet, 143. Bairnsdale - Boundaries, q 265. House Committee - Report on completion of Camberwell - Administration, q 948. Parliament House, 1107. Finance - Road funding, q 481, q 836, q 1106. General purpose grants, 894, 1228. Rating of Loy House Contracts Guarantee Act - Scope, 769, 770. Yang B power station, q 1101. General - Status of councillors, 34. Tree planting, Housing (See "Planning and Housing'1 314. Cost of community service obligations, 12. Glenelg - Union demarcation dispute, 103. Housing Guarantee Fund - Claims by Department of Planning and Housing, q 437. Registration of Keilor - Annexation poll, q 10. builders, q 481. Leigh - General purpose grants, 1228. Moe - WorkCare claim, 34. Sherbrooke - Annexation proposals, 102. Hunt, Hon. A. J. (South Eastern) (See ''President, The Wodonga - Proposed superannuation levy, q 1429. (Hon. A. J. Hunt)") Priority Victoria, q 437. Questions on Notice - Answers, 115. I Rural Enterprise Victoria Scheme, q 48, q 206, q 486, q57S. Industrial Affairs (See "Labour, Department of" and Senior Citizens - Seniors Card, q 115. Senior ''Unions'1 Citizens Week, q 151. Industry (See "Food and Agriculture, Department of", State Electricity Commission - Sale of Loy Yang B "Fishing" and "Timber" and "Manufacturing and power station, q 1101. Industry Development'1 Swinburne University of Technology Bill, 1051. Victoria Grants Commission - Allocations, 894. Infertility (Medical Procedures) Act - Register, 1092, 1095. Victoria Police - Uncollected parking fines, q 1331. Victorian Family and Children's Services Council- Insurance - Health, q 633, q 1231. Report, 12. Western Port Development Council - Activities, Interpretation of Legislation Act - Report, 441. q 784. Women -Industry restructuring, q 732. Ives, Hon. R. S (Eumemmerring) Youth - Homelessness, q 267. Accommodation, q 671. Youth Policy Development Council, q 837. Australian Defence Industries - Benalla project, q 5. Kids on the Brink program, Bendigo, 894. National Crimes and Juries (Amendment) Bill, 801. policy, q 905. Enterprise program, q 1015. Entertainment and Modelling Industry Agents Bill, Ministers council, q 1237. 1274. Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs, Ministry of - Funding for community-based organisations, Hospital Benefits Association Lld - Merger, 890, 893. q 1330. Hospitals - Proposed private for Wangaratta, 28, 37. Exports - To Asia, q 666. Annual reports, 28, 37. Southern Peninsula, 29, 37, Government Appointments Committee - Minister 101, 105. Royal Women's, 31, 37. Royal Children'S, for Transport, 72. Second interim report, 270, 455. q 40. Monash Medical Centre, 52, 98, 103, q 149, 717, Health - Medicare, q 1234. 720. 5t John of God, Ballarat, 99, 309, 314, 888, 895. Yarra Junction District, 100, 105. Proposed Werribee, Hospitals - Capital works, q 148. q 113, q 668. 5t Vincent's, q 113. Capital works, (14) INDEX

Manufacturing Council of Victoria - Activities, qualifications of doctors, q 1433. Bush nursing, q836. 635,1041. Melbourne University (VCAH) Bill, 963. Housing Guarantee Fund - Claims by Department River Murray - Blue-green algae, q 1014. of Planning and Housing, q 437. Rural Enterprise Victoria Scheme, q 486, q 575. Industrial Relations (Enterprise Bargaining) Bill, 1480. Small Business - Development strategy, q 943. Medical Treatment (Agents) Bill, 307. Telecom awards, q 1165. Ministerial Statements - Victorian Health System Small Business Development Corporation - Early Review, 858. retired employees program, q 207. Planning and Housing, Department of - Housing Vocational Education and Training (Amendment) Guarantee Fund claims, q 437. Fawkner planning Bill,695. scheme amendment, 684. Government home finance schemes, 735, 875. Points of Order - Debating question, 573, 723, 945. J Remarks: offensive, 1220; relevancy, 1467, 1469, 1471. Proof of allegations, 1471. Jews and Italians of Carlton Exhibition, The, q 1167. Public Transport- Bus services for Maroona Primary School, 192. Jirrahlinga All Pets Boarding and Wildlife Sanctuary, 1226,1228. Supply (1992-93, No. 1) Bill, 921. Urban Land Authority - Land purchases, 876,1017, Joint Sittings of Parliament - Deakin University, 1028. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and Unions - Employment of officials in government Swinburne University of Technology, 939, 1065, departments and instrumentalities, q 629. Dental 1097. health services employees stop-work meeting. q 781. K Victorian Equity Trust - Debt management, q 145. Victorian Health System Review, 858. Kennedy, Hon. C. J. (Waverley) Works and Services (Ancillary Provisions, 1992-93, Apprentices - Business training seminars, q 785. No. 1) Bill, 921. Conservation and Environment - Jobs council on fibre processing and sustainable development, q 44. Kokocinski, Hon. Licia (Melbourne West) Health - Community health centres, 786, 906. Abattoirs - Camperdown dispute, 249. Hospitals - Monash Medical Centre, 717. Alcohol- Abuse, q 1434. Municipalities - Road funding, q 1106. Australian Newsprint Mills - De-inking plant, 949. Petitions - South Eastern Arterial, 209. Community Conservation and Environment - Environment health centres, 786, 906. handbook for small industries, q 489. Snowsa!e, Rural Enterprise Victoria Scheme, q 206. q 1166. Small Business, Department of - Banking Industry Consumer Affairs - Bunk beds, q 1331. Working Group, q 487. Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, 933. Youth - Accommodation, q 671. Policy Ethnic Affairs - Interpreting services, q 948. development, q 837. Health - Report on mental disturbance and community :;afety, 51. Breast cancer screening program, q 632. Cystic fibrosis, q 782. Victorian Knowles, Hon. R. I. (Ballarat) Health System Review, 861. Aged Services - Nursing homes: Queen Elizabeth Hospitals - Proposed Werribee, q 112, q 668. Geriatric Centre, 27; private, 288, Yarraman Keilor, City of - Annexation poll, q 10. psychogeriatric, q 671, 767; Burnley Private, q 945, Liquor Licensing Commission - Alcohol abuse, q lIDO, q 1105. Church and charity registration q 1434. fees, q 837, q 1164. Ministerial Statements - Victorian Health System Corporatisation - Government trading enterprises, Review, 861. q 732. Mission Energy, q 202. Dental Services - Stop-work meeting of employees, Mobil Oil Australia - Altona refinery, q 899. q 781. Personal Explanations - Environment Protection Finance - Debt management, q 145. (Resource Recovery) Bill, 949. Fisheries (Further Amendment) Bill, 587. Points of order - Scope of adjournment debate, 249. Government Departments and Instrumentalities - Offensive remarks, 520. Debt management, q 145. Corporatisation, q 732. Priority Victoria - Department of Conservation and Health - Capital funding, q 49. Victorian Health Environment job funding, q 266. System Review, 858. Social Development Committee - Report on mental Hospitals - St John of God, Ballarat, 99, 308, 888. disturbance and community safety, 51. Psychiatric: patient transport, q 571; Yarraman psychogeriatric nursing home, q 671, 767; LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (15)

State Electricity Commission - Sale of Loy Yang B Legal and Constitutional Committee - Reports: power station, q 202. Witness Protection Act, 50; outstanding references, Universities - Places, 163. 271; Interpretation of Legislation Act, 441. Victorian Health System Review, 861. Legislative Council - Housekeeper, 1504. Women - Breast cancer screening program, q 632. Liberal Party - Alleged activities of president, 249, L 256. Library Services - For VCE students, 140, 714. Yarra Labour, Department of - Occupational health and Plenty Regional Library Service, 714. safety regulations, 311. Harrods Furniture Pty Ltd, 1094, 1096. Life Education Victoria, 33.

Liquor Licensing Commission - Gaming machines, Landeryou, Hon. W. A. (Doutta Galla) q 7,575. Restaurant licences, q 110. Appointments, q 111, q 114, q 147. Alcohol abuse, q 1434. Business of the House - Notices of Motion, 271. Corporatisation -1331. livestock Market Reporting Service, 1005. House Committee - Report on completion of Parliament House, 1107. Local Enterprise Deve10pment Initiative Program, q 437. Parliament House - Smoking policy, 271, 1151, 1506. Parliament of Victoria Committee - Report on Local Government (See "Municipalities") Budget process, 13,441. Appointment of subcommittee, 754. Local Government Commission - Chainnan, q 634. Points of Order - Selective quoting, 54. Offensive remarks, 270. Public Bodies Review Committee - Corporatisation Long, Hon. R. J. (Gippsland) of State Electricity Commission, 1331. Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, Lands (See "Conservation and Environment") 1145,1148. Latrobe Regional Commission - Report, q 109. Health - Latrobe region services, 841. Law Courts - Medical malpractice litigation, 30, 37. Heritage Rivers Bill, 621. County Court judges report, 786. Skipton, 893, 895. Loy Yang B Bill, 1368, 1399, 1400, 1401, 1404, 1405. Medical Treatment (Agents) Bill, 306. Municipalities - Authority, 11. Lawson, Hon. Robert (Higinbotham) Petitions - Local government, 11. Latrobe region Classification of Films and Publications health services, 841. (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), 1084. Points of Order - Questions: relevancy of answer, Law Courts - Medical malpractice litigation, 30. 42; debating, 482; scope, 944. Quoted material, Loy Yang B Bill, 1387. 1468. Medical Profession - Malpractice litigation, 30. Reports - Procedures for presentation, 22. Melbourne University (VCAH) Bill, 964. State Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 22, 23. Port of Melbourne Authority (Amendment) Bill, 797. Public Record Office - Staff, 719. Lyster, Hon. M. A. (Chelsea) (Minister for Health) Public Transport - Rail crossings at Church and Bay streets, Brighton, 197. W-cJass trams, 830. Aged Services - Road Safety (Licence Cancellation) Bill, 970. General - Church and charity registration fees, q 837, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology Bill, 1280. q 1164. School Education - Correspondence School, 96. Nursing Homes - Queen Elizabeth Geriatric Centre, 36. CAM/SAM funding, q 205. Private, 285. Southern Consumer and Financial Advocacy Service, Yarraman psychogeriatric, q 671, 774. Ovens and 1227. Murray Home for the Aged, 775. Private, q 904. Supply (1992-93, No. 1) Bill, 1494. Burnley Private, q 945, q 1100, q 1102, q 1104, Tenancies - Commercial, 892. q 1105, 1169. Industrial dispute, q 1100. Universities - Places, 185. Ambulance Services -In north-eastern Victoria, Vocational Education and Training (Amendment) q 838. Review, 1155. BiIl,697. Australian Hospitals Associations - Health Works and Services (Ancillary Provisions, 1992-93, Ministers conference, 258. No. 1) Bill, 1494. Barwon South West Women's Health Service, 315. Cemeteries - Land at Pakenham, 258, 774. Proposed burials at Lake Corangamite, q 670. Leadbeater's Possum, q 114. Chiropractors and Osteopaths (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), 39, 120,221,222,223. (16) INDEX

Classification of Films and Publications God, Ballarat, 104, 314, 895. Yarra Junction (Amendment) Bill, 734, 1046, 1085, 1086. District, 105. Southern Peninsula, 105. Proposed Classification of Films and Publications Werribee, q 113, q 668. St Vincent's, q 113. Capital (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), 762, 764. works, q 148, q 1011. Western, q 149. Gippsland, Collingwood Land (Victoria Park) Bill, 835, 906, 1055, q 149. Geelong, q 149. Austin, q 149. Preston and 1079,1080. Northcote Community, q 149. Box Hill, q 149. Peter MacCallum Cancer Institute, q 149. Constitution (Governor's Salary) Bill, 577, 584, 585. Enhanced resignation packages, q 151. County Court Judges - Report, 786. Mainstreaming programs, 315, q 942. Bush Crime - Bureau of crime statistics, 734. nursing, 655, 1035. Heidelberg Repatriation, 775. Crimes and Juries (Amendment) Bill, 440, 527, 804. Hamilton Base, 833. Proposed Whittlesea, 833. Loan Council guidelines, q 836. In northern Crimes (Blood Samples) (Clarification) Bill, 291. suburbs, q 903. Productivity gains, q 947. Funding Crimes (Culpable Driving) Bill, 576, 656, 809. for proposed Epping, q 1009, q 1165. Financial Crimes (Family Violence) (Further Amendment) Bill, performance of public, q 1432. (See also Health) 762, 765, 1367. Infertility (Medical Procedures) Act - Register, 1095. Crimes (Forensic Procedures) Bill, 762, 789. Law Courts - Medical malpractice litigation, 37. Dangerous Goods - Storage of radioactive waste, Legal Aid Commission (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), q 1234, q 1328. 1157,1188, 1391, 1392, 1393. Dental Services - Stop-work meeting of employees, Magistrates' Court (Costs) Bill, 125. q 781. Medical Services- Nurse education in country Drugs -Steroids, 38. Illicit, 198. Geelong Victoria, q 1164. Qualifications of psychiatric rehabilitation program, 259. (See also "Health") service doctors, q 1433. Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances (Further Medical Treatment (Agents) Bill, 1113, 1114, 1115, Amendment) Bill, 1169, 1512. 1116,1117,1119. Ethnic Affairs - Health education assistance, q 904. Mental Health Act - Amendments, q 942. Financial Institutions (Victoria) Bill, 1184, 1340, 1341, Mental Health Review Board - Appointment, q 150. 1342, 1343, 1344. Ministerial Statements - Victorian Health System Fire and Emergency Services (Miscellaneous Review, 843. Amendments) Bill, 567, 578, 817, 818, 819, 820. National Food Authority - Testing of imported food Government Departments and Instrumentalities - products, q 669. Enhanced resignation packages, q 151,208. Obstetric and Paediatric Mortality and Morbidity, Health- Consultative Council on - Report, 576. Department Victoria - Enhanced resignation Pakenham, Shire of - Cemetery land, 626. packages, q 151, 208. Cemetery land at Pakenham, Partnership (Limited Partnerships) Bill, 941, 958, 258,626,774. Head lice programs, 775. 1285, 1286, 1287, 1288, 1289. Prosecution, q 784. Storage of radioactive waste, q 1234, q 1328. Personal Explanations - Enhanced resignation packages, 208. Diseases - Breast cancer screening program, 37, q 632. Pediculosis, 775. Cystic fibrosis, q 782. Points of Order - Offensive remarks, 29. Scope of AIDS/HIV: assistance to non-English speaking adjournment debate, 29. community providers, q 904; testing, 1095. Questions on Notice - Answers, 116, 118, 1169. Drugs - Shortages, 258. Racial and Religious Vilification Bill, 950, 1053. General- Medicare, q 3, q 45, q 568, q 1099, q 1161, Melbourne Hospital (Redevelopment) Bill, 1003, q 1234. Funding: capital, q 49; CAM/SAM, q 205. 1112,1399. Ministers conference, 259. Barwon South West Smoking - By youth, q 1012. Women's Health Service, 315. Insurance, q 633, Supreme Court Judges - Report, 786. q 1231. Testing of imported food products, q 669. Victorian Health System Review, 841, 843, q 1328. Unions - Employment of officials in government Smoking by youth, q 1012. Acupuncture, 1154. departments and instrumentalities, q 629. Stop-work meeting in dental services, q 781. Mental Health - Resignation of Director of Office of Psychiatric Services, q 207. Psychiatric hospitals: Universities - Medical student numbers, 198. Dax House, Geelong, q 264; clinical audit, q 268, Victoria Police - Traffic fines for pensioners and q 567, q 568, q 569, q 573; mainstreaming jobless, 198. programs, 315, 895, q 897, q 942; roster systems, Victorian Ambulance Services Review, 1155. q 570; staff recruitment, q 572; qualifications of Victorian Health System Review, 841, 843, q 1328. doctors, q 1433. Patient transport, q 571. Yarraman Women - Breast cancer screening program, 37, psychogeriatric nursing home, q 671, 774. q 632. Barwon South West Women's Health Health Acts (Revision) Bill, 762. Service, 315. Health (Radiation Safety) Regulations 1884,720, q725. M Health Services Commissioner - Report, 1016. Hospitals - Private for Wangaratta, 37. Annual Mackenzie, Hon. R. A. (Geelong) reports, 37. Royal Women's, 37. Children's, q 40. Monash Medical Centre, 103, q 149, 720. St John of Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Bill, 132. LEGISLA TIVE COUNCIL (17)

Arts, The -Secret Treasures of Russia exhibition, Russia - Secret Treasures exhibition, 625. 625. Supply (1992-93, No. 1) Bill, 1497. Australian Football League - Match admission Universities - Places, 175. prices, 1092. Vermin and Noxious Weeds (Poison Baits) Bill, 448. Bank Integration Bill, 1509. Victorian Health System Review, 870, 1043. Alpine Resorts (Amendment) Bi1I, 1192, 1198. Victree Timber Products Pty Ltd, 1004. Chiropractors and Osteopaths (Amendment) Bill Vocational Education and Training (Amendment) (No. 2), 219. Bill, 698. Collingwood Land (Victoria Park) Bill, 1055, 1063, Works and Services (Ancillary Provisions, 1992-93, 1066, 1079. Dissent recorded, 1056. No. 1) Bi11,1497. Conservation and Environment - Woodchipping by Midway Pty Ltd, 99. Classification of saw logs, q 115. Four-wheel drive vehicles, q 487. McLean, Hon. Jean (Boronia Province) Commercial forests project, q 784, 892. Coode Island - Landy report, 310. Aged Services - Nursing home industrial dispute, q 1100. Corporatisation -Government trading Altona Chemical Complex - Agreement, q 669. enterprises, q 574, q 670. Crime - Bureau of crime statistics, 525. Conservation and Environment - Recycling and waste management, q ISO, q 1429. Drugs - Illicit, 194. Geelong rehabilitation program, Coode Island - Landy report, 262. 254. q Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, 984. Dandenong Ranges - Conservation, q 436. Entertainment and ModelIing Industry Agents Bill, Earth Summit - Rio de Janeiro, q 781. 1273. Entertainment and Modelling Industry Agents Bill, Financial Institutions (Victoria) Bill, 1339. 1271. Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, 982. Fire and Emergency Services (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, 816. Gambling - Gaming machines, q 10to. Fisheries (Further Amendment) Bill, 589. National Parks (Wilderness) Bill, 1306. Gambling - Casino for Geelong, q 1166. Small Business, Department of - Banking Industry Working Group, q 902. Gem Pier, Williamstown, q 947. Government Appointments Committee - Minister Small Claims Tribunal - Scope, q 633. for Transport, 89, 90. State Electricity Commission - National electricity grid, q Government Departments and Instrumentalities - lOS. Corporatisation, q 574, q 670. Youth - Ministers council, q 1236. Government Employee Housing Authority - Eviction of Colac family, q 207, 718. McNiece Media Services - Consultancies, 1225, 1229. Health - Victorian Health System Review, 870,1043. Heritage Rivers Bill, 608, 618, 620, 623. Major Projects - Bayside, q 1, q 4, q 6, q 8, q 9, q 39, Housing - Government home finance schemes, 745. q 41, q 668,1435,1436. Industrial Relations (Enterprise Bargaining) Bill, 1478. Major Projects Unit - Report, SO. Jirrahlinga All Pets Boarding and Wildlife Sanctuary, 1226. Manufacturing and Industry Development - Loy Yang B BiIl- Debate, 1383. Dissent recorded, Department - FoI request on mining companies, 30, 1389. 34. Appointment of deputy director-general, 255, Manufacturing and Industry Development, 258. Department of - FoI request on mining Genera/- Food processing, q 146, q 629, q 1325. companies, 30. Golden Aluminium, Bendigo, 253, 257. Coode Medical Treatment (Agents) Bill, 305. Island: Landy report, q 262, 310, 313, 314. Melbourne Water Corporation Bill - Debate, 1455. Maryvale pulp and paper mill, q 433. Dissent recorded, 1458. Telecommunications industry: deregulation, Midway Pty Ltd - Woodchipping, 99. q 481; investment and employment, q 569; AOTC, q 728. Exports to Asia, q 666. Altona: chemical Ministerial Statements - Victorian Health System complex agreement, q 669; Mobil refinery Review, 870, 1043. upgrade, q 899. Textile, clothing and footwear, National Parks (Wilderness) Bill, 1310. q 942, q 943, q 1428. Energy: commercial building Otway, Shire of - Logging, 1004. code, q 1101; efficiency strategy, q 1163. Points of Order - Explanation, 670. Sub judice rule, Information technology, q 1232. Undersea 1056. Tedious repetition, 1224. electricity cable link, q 1327. Prices - Football match admission, 1092. Public Transport - Melbourne-Adelaide rail Manufacturing Council of Victoria - Activities, q 836. service, q 10. Medical Panels, Convenor of - WorkCare reports, 12, Road Safety (Licence Cancellation) Bi11, 970. 1170. (18) INDEX

Medical Services - St John of God Hospital, Ballarat: 433,723. Auditor-General's report on Ministerial magnetic resonance imaging unit, 99, 309, 314, 888, portfolios, 733. 895. Nurse education in country institutions, q 1164. Qualifications of psychiatric service doctors, q 1433. Mission Energy, q 201, q 203, q 206, 252, 256, q 261, q 263, q 729, q 778. (See also "State Electricity Medicare, q 3, q 45, q 568, q 1099, q 1160, q 1234. Commission'')

Melba, Dame Nellie - Lilydale Historic Museum, 254. Mobil Oil Australia Ltd - Altona: chemical complex agreement, q 669; refinery upgrade, q 899. Melbourne Cricket Ground - Great Southern Stand, 769. Motor Car Traders Guarantee Fund, 1227, 1228.

Melbourne Water - Accounts, 625. Securitisation of Motor Vehicles (See ''Roads Corporation'') trade receivables, q 941, q 1430. (See also "Corporatisation',) Motorcycles - Report on safety, 153.

Mental Health (See "Health - Mental Health'') Mount Buffalo Chalet, q 487.

Mental Health Act - Amendments, q 942. Mount Hotham - Chalet site, 143. Snow clearing on alpine roads, 830, 833. Mental Health Review Board - Appointment, q 150. Multiculturalism (See ''Ethnic Affairs, Office of',) Midway Pty Lld - Woodchipping, 99, 103. Municipalities - Bairnsdale - Boundaries, q 265. Mier, Hon. B. W. (Waverley) Broadmeadows - Fawkner planning scheme Collingwood Land (Victoria Park) Bill, 1069. amendment, 673. Fisheries (Further Amendment) Bill, 588. Camberwell - Administration, q 948. Heritage Rivers Bill, 615, 621. Coburg - Fawkner planning scheme amendment, Industrial Relations (Superannuation Enforcement) 673. BilI,I220. Diamond Valley - Planning scheme amendments Points of order -Offensive remarks, 1220. Nos L27 and RL141, 140, 144, 1006. Public transport, 768. Vermin and Noxious Weeds (Poison Baits) Bill, 450. Eltham - Public transport, 768. Finance - Road funding, q 481, q 835, q 1106. Migrant Skills and Qualifications Board - Report, Accounting standards, 771, 774. General purpose 1170. grants, 889, 894, 1226, 1228. Rating of Loy Yang B power station, q 1100, q 1102. Migrants (See ''Ethnic Affairs, Office 00 Geelong - Casino proposal, q 1166. General- Authority, 11. Status of councillors, 28, 34. Public access to swimming holes, 309, 315. Tree Miles, Hon. J. G. (Templestowe) planting, 309, 314. Yarra Plenty Regional Library Collingwood Land (Victoria Park) Bill, 1071. Service, 714. Local Government Ethnic Affairs Ministerial Advisory Council, q 731. Regional Education (Further Amendment) Bill, 1089, 1090. trade measurement authorities, q 783. Proposed National Tennis Centre (Amendment) Bill, 658. superannuation levy, q 1429. Planning and Housing - Fawkner planning scheme Glenelg - Union demarcation dispute, 98, 103. amendment, 678. Proposed Park Street, Cariton, Grenville - Ballarat-Skipton railway reserve, 1092, development, q 1235. 1095. Racing (Further Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, Keilor - Annexation poll, q 10. 1412. Ltigh - General purpose grants, 1226, 1228. Supply (1992-93, No. 1) Bill, 1501. Moe - WorkCare claim, 28, 34. Universities - Places, 179. Otway - Logging, 1004, 1007. Works and Services (Ancillary Provisions, 1992-93, No. 1) Bill, 1501. Pakenham - Cemetery land, 250, 258, 624, 626, 768, 774. Preston - Fawkner planning scheme amendment, Mineral Resources (Health and Safety) Regulations 673. 1991,1017. Richmond - Inner-city clearway provisions, 718, 722. Sherbrookt - Annexation proposal, 98, 102. Ministerial Statements - Parliamentary reform, 96. St Baths redevelopment, q 946. Priority Victoria, 192. Victorian Health System Kilda - Review, 843, 1043. Ministry, The - Ministerial Waranga - Rural Water Commission funding, 1005. responsibility: Minister Assisting the Minister for Wodonga - Proposed superannuation levy, q 1429. Manufacturing and Industry Development on Corporatisation, q 145. Absence of Minister, 201, Mutual Community Lld - Merger, 890, 893. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (19)

N Port Phillip Bay - Artificial reef, 143, 144.

Portland Smelter Unit Trust - Proposed sale of National Food Authority - Testing of imported food Portland smelter, q 839. products, q 669. Ports - Nursing Homes (See "Aged Services") General - Mooring fees, q 435. o Melbourne - Bayside project, q 1, q 4, q 6, q 8, q 9, q 39, q 41, q 668. Russian contract, q 107, q 109. Artificial reef in bay, 143, 144. East Swanson Dock, Obstetric and Paediatric Mortality and Morbidity, q 434, q 436, q 483, 718, 719, q 1162. HMVS Consultative Council on - Report, 576. Cerberus, 477, 478. Station Pier, q 668. Docklands Authority land, 771, 773. Gem Pier, Williamstown, Optus Communications, q 481. 892,893, q 947. World Trade Centre, q 1233. Outer Eastern Group Training Ltd, 476. Premier and Cabinet, Department of the - p Destruction of records, 829, 832.

Parks - President, The (Hon. A. J. Hunt) General- Alpine Advisory Committee, q 47. Rulings and Statements - Kangaroos in Chiltern Regional Park, 193, 198: Adjournment Debate - Remarks: controversial, 29; Training for friends groups, 197, 198. MountalO offensive, 29. Scope, 196,249. Sub judice rule, 250. grazing licences, q 900, q 903. Access for disabled, q 901. Auditor-General- Reports: fire protection, 441; Ministerial portfolios, 733; Bayside project, 1435. National- Grampians (Gariwerd): Zumstein Park camping grounds, 310, 314. Bank Integration Bill, 1508. Bayside Project, 1435. Parliament - Public Gallery protocol, 49. Televising of Bills - Absolute majorities, 26, 702, 760, 967, 1281, proceedings, 52, 1436. Reform, 96. Alleged breach of 1340, 1357, 1358, 1360, 1362, 1399. privilege, 209. Collingwood Land (Victoria Park) Bill - Declared private, 1055. Dissent recorded, 1056. Parliament House -Smoking policy, 271,1151,1506. Debate - Selective quoting: Standing Order No. 207, Honorary chaplains, 490. Report on completion of, 55. Remarks: offensive, 65, 270, 455, 1468; 1107. relevancy, 1466, 1467, 1470, 1471, 1472. Must be directed through Chair, 75. Reflection on decision Parliament of Victoria Committee - Reports: Budget of House, 90. Seconders of motions, 455. Reference process, 13,441; third progress, 1169. Appointment to debates in same session, 462. Sub judice rule, of subcommittee, 754. 1057, 1467. On tabling of reports, 1108. Allegations, 1468, 1469, 1471. Imputations, 1469. Pensioners (See 11 Aged Servic~" and "Senior Citizens'') Distinguished Visitors, 732, 1366. Personal Explanations - By Mr Theophanous, 153, Government Appointments Committee - Second 575. By Mrs Lyster, 208, 1169. By Ms Kokocinski, 949. interim report, 209. Alleged breach of privilege, 209. Petitions - State schools, 11. Local government, 11. Joint Sittings of Parliament - Deakin University, Monash Medical Centre, 52. South Eastern Arterial, Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and 209. Human embryos, 440, 1016, 1435. Victoria Park Swinburne University of Technology, 1065. agreement, 576. Community health centres, 786, 906. Latrobe region health services, 841. Companion Legislative Council- Housekeeper, 1505. Animals Bill, 905, 949. Registration of cats, 1169. Loy Yang B Bill - Dissent recorded, 1389. Reference to Standing Orders Committee, 1451. Melbourne Water Corporation Bill- Dissent recorded, 1458. Planning and Housing - Parliament - Public Gallery protocol, 49. Televising Housing - Housing Guarantee Fund claims, q 437. of proceedings, 52,1436. Alleged breach of Government home finance schemes, 735, 870. privilege, 209. Honorary chaplains, 490. Proposed Park Street, Carlton, development, Questions on Notice - Answers, 118, 270. q 1235. Questions without Notice - Debating, 6, 43, 46, 482, Planning - Planning scheme amendments: Nos U7 666, 723,945, 1236, 1326. Seeking opinion, 7. and RL141 in Diamond Valley, 140, 144, 1006; Interjections, 8, 149,489,1236. Scope, 42, 46,724. Fawkner, 673. Proposed development at Mont Imputations and allegations, 42. Conduct of Park, q 152. members, 45. Ministerial statement, 47, 725, 944. Relevancy of answers, 110. Redirection, 111. Point Hicks Lighthouse, q 835. Offensive remarks, 726. Audibility, 728. Pejorative term, 1104. Reflection on Auditor-General, 1159, Police (See "Victoria Police") 1160. Elaboration, 1329. Reports - Presentation, 11, 22, 51. (20) INDEX

Senate - Vacancies, 1427. Lang-Koop school site, 479; Ballarat-Skipton railway reserve, 1095. Dandenong Ranges: picniC areas, 36; land purchase program, 144; Prices - Electricity, q 43, q 111. Alcohol, 831, 834. AFL conservation, 436. Jobs: council on fibre processing match admission, 1092, 1095. Motor car trader and sustainable development, q 44; funding by licence fees, 1227, 1228. Gas, q 1432. Priority Victoria, q 266, q 839,1007,1154. Alpine Advisory Committee, q 47. Woodchipping by Priority Victoria - A statement on jobs, 192, q 1231, Midway Pty Ltd, 103. Mount Disappointment q 1325. Funding: Department of Conservation and State Forest, 144. Recycling and waste Environment, q 266, q 839, 1005, 1007, 1152, 1154; management, q 150, q 1430. Coode Island report, Ministry of Ethnic, Municipal and Community 314. Four-wheel drive vehicles: levy, 479; Tread Affairs, q 437. Lightly program, q 487. Resource Assessment Commission report, q 484. Environment Privatisation (See "Corporatisation") handbook for small industries, q 489. Greenhouse gas emissions, q 781. Cranbourne Botanic Public Bodies Review Committee - Membership, Gardens, 832. Raid on dingo farm, q 837. 118. Report on corporatisation of SEC, 1331. Mountain grazing licences, q 900, q 904. Toorour Forest Lodge, 1007. Flora and fauna studies, Public Record Office -Staff, 717, 719. q 1012. Blue-green algae, q 1014. Earth Summit, q 1103. SnOWSll/e, q 1166. Contaminated sites, Public Records Act, 829, 832. q 1327.(See also"Animals" and "Birds'') Public Transport - Daratech Pty Ltd - Report, 441. Bus Services -School: Maroona Primary, 192, 197; Defence Service Homes - Merbein, 258. Templestowe Technical, 248; Ed ucation, Post-Secondary - T AFE admission Craigieburn-Broadmeadows-Pascoe Vale, 251. procedures, 35. Tertiary places, 187. Lower Templestowe, 477, 479. Egg Industry (Amendment) Bill, 1157, 1180. Corporation - Surplus land, 1017. McNiece Media Employment - Jobs: council on fibre processing and Services, 1225, 1229. sustainable development, q 44; funding by General-Services in Diamond Valley and-Eltham, Priority Victoria, q 266, q 839, 1007, 1154. 768. W-dass trams, 830, 834. Student concession Environment Protection Authority -Contaminated cards, 890. sites, q 1327. Rail Services - Melbourne-Adelaide, q 10. Subway at Environment Protection (Fees) Regulations 1991,490. Castiemaine, 142. Crossings at Church and Bay Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, streets, Brighton, 197, 199. 1123,1124,1125,1126,1128,1129,1130,1131,1133, 1134,1136,1137, 1138, 1139, 1140, 1141, 1142, 1143, Psychiatric Services, Office of - Resignation of 1144,1145,1146,1147,1148,1149,1150. director, q 206. (See also "Health" - Mental Health") Fair Trading (Environmental Labelling) Bill, 1157, 1179. Fisheries (Further Amendment) Bill, 201, 213. Pullen, Hon. B. T. (Melbourne) (Minister for Food and Agriculture, Department of - Federal land Conservation and Environment) management kit, 1154. Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Bill, 595, 596, Forest Interpretative Centre, Toolangi, 258. 597,599, 600. Heritage Rivers Bill, 296, 617, 618, 619, 620, 621,622, Agricultural Industry Development (Tomato 623,624. Processing) Bill, 1489, 1514. Joint SiUings of Parliament - Deakin University, Altona Chemical Complex - Agreement, q 669. Melbourne Institute of Technology and Swinburne Animals - Feral, 720, q 783, q 946. Raid on dingo University of Technology, 939. farm, q 837. Flora and fauna studies, q 1012. Law Courts - Skipton, 895. Auditor-General- Report on fire protection, q 438. Melbourne Lands and Market Sites (Amendment) Banyule Homestead, 626. Bill, 958. Beaumaris Heathland, 103. Melbourne Market and Park Lands Bill, 957. Birds - Freckled duck, q 486. Migratory wader, Melbourne University (VCAH) Bill, 777, 792, 1198, q 571. 1199, 1200, 1507. Building Control (Further Amendment) Bill, 1157, Melbourne Water Corporation Bill, 1099, 1171. 1178. Midway Pty Ltd - Woodchipping, 103. Companion Animals Bill, 876, 950. Migrant Skills and Qualifications Board - Report, Conservation and Environment - 1170. Department - Commercial forests project, q 785, 894. Monash University (Pharmacy College) Bill, 520, 577. Appointments, 1007. Restructure, q 1015. Mount Buffalo Chalet, q 487. Communications system, q 1232, q 1235, q 1325, Mount Hotham -Chalet site, 144. q 1326. Advertising campaign, q 1427, q 1429. National Parks (Wilderness) Bill, 1109, 1319, 1320, General - Oyster cultivation in Swan Bay Marine 1321,1322. and Wildlife Reserves, q 9. Sale of spray carts, 34. Crown land: rentals, 35, 894; sale, q 267, 479; Otway, Shire of - Logging, 1007. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (21)

Parks - R General - Alpine Advisory Committee, q 47. Training for friends groups, 198. Access for Recycling (See "Conservation and Environment'') disabled, q 901. National - Grampians (Gariwerd): Zumstein Park Reports - Presentation, 11,22,51. camping grounds, 314. Mountain grazing licences, q 900, q 904. Residential Tenancies Tribunal- Delays, q 265. Planning and Housing - Planning scheme Appointments, 153, q 440, q 1166. Prosecutions, amendments: Nos L27 and RL141 in Diamond q 482. (See also ''Tenancies'') Valley, 144; Fawkner, 681. Government home Resource Assessment Commission - Report on forest finance schemes, 870. Proposed Park Street, and timber inquiry, q 484. Carlton, development, q 1235. Point Hicks Lighthouse, q 835. Rio de Janeiro - Earth Summit, q 781, q 1103. Points of Order - Amendments, 1122. Port Phillip Bay - Artificial reef, 144. River Murray - Blue-green algae, q 1014. Priority Victoria - Job funding, q 266, q 839, 1007, Roads Corporation - 1154. General - VIC ROADS tender, 98, 103. Report on Questions on Notice - Answers, 117, q 1169. motorcycle safety~ 153. Four-wheel drive vehicles: Resource Assessment Commission - Report, q 484. levy, 475, 479; Tread Lightly program, q 487. Road Melbourne Institute of Technology Bill, 1009, 1086, funding, q 481, q 835, q 1106. 1281, 1282. Roads and Highways - South Eastern Arterial, 209. RSPCA - Raid on dingo farm, q 837. Inner-city clearway provisions, 718, 722. Salinity - Saltwatch program, q 631. Goulburn Intersections: Henderson and Ferntree Gully Valley drylands, q 1233. roads, 768; Chesterville Road and Bernard Street, Sewerage - In Mildura area, 36. Cheltenham North, 1225. Snow clearing on alpine, 830,833. Mansfield-Woods Point Road, 1090, 1095. State Conservation Strategy - Report, 1170. St Kilda Baths - Redevelopment, q 946. RSPCA - Raid on dingo fann, q 837. Sunraysia Water Board - Sewerage facilities, 36. Swan Bay Marine and Wildlife Reserves - Oyster Rural Enterprise Victoria Scheme, q 48, q 206, q 486, cultivation, q 9. q 575. Swinburne University of Technology Bill, 1003, 1357, Rural Water Commission - Funding, 1005. 1358. Timber Industry - Woodchipping by Midway Pty Russia - Secret Treasures exhibition, 625, 626. Port of Ltd, 103. ClaSSification of saw logs, q 115. Logging Melbourne Authority contract, q 107, q 109. in Shire of Otway, 1007. Toolangi Forest Interpretative Centre, 258. s Toorour Forest Lodge, 1007. Universities - Places, 187. Deakin University, Salinity - Saltwatch program, q 630. Goulburn Valley Swinbume University of Technology and drylands, q 1233. Melboume Institute of Technology councils, 939. Urban Land Authority - Proposed housing Sandridge City Development Company Pty Ltd - development at Mont Park, q 152. Land Bayside project, q 1, q 4, q 6, q 8, q 9, q 39, q 41. purchases, 1025. Vennin and Noxious Weeds (Poison Baits) Bill, 107, School Education - 121,583. Department - Brighton Bay Secondary College site, Victree Timber Products Pty Ltd, 1007. 311. Vocational Education and Training (Amendment) General- Life education centres, 33. VCE: library Bill, 687. resources, 140, 714. Bus services: Maroona Water (Elections) Bill, 879. Primary School, 192, 197. Templestowe Technical School, 248; Craigieburn-Broadmeadows-Pascoe Water (Rural Water Corporation) Bill, 1079,1173, Vale, 251. Auditor-General's report on integrated 1423, 1424, 1425, 1426. education for children with disabilities, 786. Wildlife Regulations 1992,1228. School Dental Service, q 942. Wonnangatta Station -Grass slashing, q 839. Schools, Post-Primary - Budget, 11. Correspondence, World Environment Week, q 1103. 96. Yarra-Plenty region: VCE library resources grant, 714. Ararat Secondary College, 773. Q Schools, Primary - Valkstone, 718. Moorabbin West, 1003. Questions on Notice - Answers, 10, 50, lIS, 152, 208, Teachers - Transfers, 97. 270,575,785,949, 1167. (See also ''Employment, Post-Secondary Education and Training'') (22) INDEX

Secret Treasures of Russia, 625, 626. Urban Land Authority - Proposed housing development at Mont Park, q 152. Select Committee on Government Appointments (See Victoria Police - Traffic fines for penSioners and "Government Appointments, Select Committee on") jobless, 194. Sen.. te - Vacancies, 1427. Works and Services (Ancillary Provisions, 1992-93, No. 1) Bill, 1489. Senior Citizens - Seniors Card, q 115. Senior Citizens Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service, 714. Week, q 151. (See also "Aged Services")

Sewer.. ge - In Mildura area, 32, 36. Small Business, Deputment of - Banking Industry Working Group, q 487, q 902. Women's seminar, q 672. Development strategy, q 943. Goods and Sgro, Hon. G. A. (Melbourne North) services tax, q 1013. Telecom awards, q 1165.

Ambulance Services - In north-eastern Sm.. 1l Business Development Corporation - Forum, Victoria, q 838. q 46. Green Directory, q 152. Early retired employees Collingwood Land (Victoria Park) Bill, 1076. program, q 207. Tourism, q 572. Business training Consumer Affairs - Prepaid funerals, q 269. seminars for apprentices, q 785. Unifonn credit legislation, q 730. Ethnic Affairs, Office of - Services: interpreting, Sm.. 1l Claims Tribunal - Delays, q 265. q 440; translation, q 634. Health education Appointments, 153, q 440 q 1166. Scope, q 633. assistance, q 904. The Jews and Italians of Carlton Administration, q 1329. exhibition, q 1167. Funding for community-based organisations, q 1433. Manufacturing and Industry Development - Smith, Hon. K. M. (South Eastern) Telecommunications industry, q 569. Bayside Project, q 4, q 8, q 41, q 668. Planning - Fawkner planning scheme amendment, Cemeteries - Land at Pakenham, 250, 624. 679. Collingwood Land (Victoria Park) Bill, 1077. Senior Citizens Week, q 151. Companion Animals Bill, 906. Small Business - Goods and services tax, q 1013. Cranbourne Botanic Gardens, 828. Docklands Authority - Port of Melbourne Authority land,771. Skeggs, Hon. B. A. E (Templestowe) Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, 937. Aged Services - Private nursing homes, 281, q 904. Health - Human embryos, 440. Cemetery land at Banyule Homestead, 624, 1227. Pakenham, 250, 624. Building Societies - Interest rates, 1094. Hospitals - Southern Peninsula, 29, 101. Children's Protection Society - Alys Key Family Housing - Government home finance schemes, 748. Care Program, 97. Industrial Relations (Enterprise Bargaining) Bill, 1470. Classification of Films and Publications Industrial Relations (Superannuation Enforcement) (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), 1085. Bill,l220. Coode Island - Landy report, 313. McNiece Media Services -Consultancies, 1225. Corporatisation -Government trading National Parks (Wilderness) Bill, 1308. enterprises, q 205, q 631. Pakenham, Shire of - Cemetery land, 250, 624. Diamond Valley, Shire of - Planning scheme amendments Nos L27 and RL141, 140, 1006. Petitions - State schools, 11. Human embryos, 440. Drugs - Steroids, 33. Points of Order - Definition of "small business", 46. Relevancy: of answer, 109; of remarks, 1470. Sub Gas and Fuel Corporation - Corporatisation, q 205, judice rule, 249. Offensive remarks, 520, 1468. q 631. Debating question, 666, 903. Tedious repetition, Heritage Rivers Bill, 607. 1224. Industrial Relations (Superannuation Enforcement) Port of Melbourne Authority - Bayside project, q 4, Bill, 1219. q 8, q 41, q 668. Russian contract, q 109. East Library Services - For VCE students, 714. Swanson Dock, 718. Gem Pier, WiIliamstown, 892. Planning - Proposed development at Mont Park, Public Transport - McNiece Media Services, 1225. q 152. Questions on Notice - Answers, 115. Public Transport - In Lower Templestowe, 477. In School Education - Budget, 11. shires of Diamond Valley and Eltham, 768. St Kilda, City of - Baths redevelopment, q 946. Racing (Further Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, Tenancies - Dispute at Mount Martha, 195. 1413. Unions - Grants, 490, 518. School Education - Bus services: Templestowe Technical School, 248. Urban Land Authority - Land purchases, 1023. Supply (1992-93, No. 1) Bill, 1489. Victoria Police - Uncollected parking fines, q 1330. Smoking - By youth, q 1012. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (23)

Smoking - Parliament House policy, 271,1151. By Swinburne University of Technology Bill, 1344. youth, q 1012. Universities - Places, 154, 190. "Snowsafe", q 1166. Social Development Committee - Reports: mental Strategic Research Foundation - Chainnan, q 263. disturbance and community safety, 51, 634; Sunraysia Water Board -Sewerage facilities, 32, 36. motorcycle safety, 153. Superannuation - Proposed levy on municipalities, Southern Consumer and Financial Advocacy Service, q 1429. 1227. Supreme Court Judges - Report, 786. Southern Electric, q 900. (See also "State Electricity Commission") Swan Bay Marine and Wildlife Reserves - Oyster cultivation, q 8. Standing Orders Committee - Petitions, 1451.

State Conservation Strategy - Report, 1170. T

State Electricity Commission - Morwell overburden, Taxation - q 43, q 111, q 483. Corporatisation, q 43, q 111, q 145, q 205, q 208, q 574, q 627, q 629, q 630, q 631, q 665, Financial Institutions Duty - On roll-over tenn q 666, q 670, q 723, q 727, q 729, q 732, q 780, q 1158, deposits, 141, 144. 1331, q 1428. National electricity grid, q 108. Private General - Effects of goods and services tax on small hydro-electric scheme, Koetong, 192, 198. Sale of business, q 1013. Low Yang B power station, 193, 197, q 201, q 203, Land Tax - Increases, 892. q 206, 252, 256, q 261, q 263, q 437, q 485, q 729, q 778, q 900, q 1100, q 1102. Regional power Public Authority Dividend -Gas and Fuel conference, 828, 831. Securitisation of trade Corporation, q 667, q 731. receivables, q 941, q 1430. Stockpiling, q 945. Undersea electricity cable link, q 1327. (See also "Mission Energy" and "Southern Electric") Tehan, Hon. M. T. (Central Highlands) Aged Services - Private nursing homes, 271, 291. Statutory Rules - Environment Protection (Fees) Ambulance Services - Review, 1153. Regulations 1991, 490. Health (Radiation Safety) Regulations 1984, 715, 720, q 725. Mineral Resources Australian Hospitals Association - Health Ministers (Health and Safety) Regulations 1991, 1017. Wildlife conference, 253. Regulations 1992, 1225, 1228. Cemeteries - Proposed burials at Lake Corangamite, q 669. St Kilda Baths - Redevelopment, q 946. Chiropractors and Osteopaths (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), 214, 222. Health- Storey, Hon. Haddon (East Yarra) Department - Head lice programs, 771. Prosecution, Conservation and Environment, Department of - q 784. Advertising program, q 1429. Diseases - Breast cancer screening program, 31. Corporatisation - Government trading enterprises, Pediculosis, 771. q 208, q 666, q 729, q 1158. General - Medicare, q 45, q 1099. Ministers Finance - Debt-equity swap, q 779. conference, 253. Victorian Health System Review, Gas and Fuel Corporation -Corporatisation, q 208, 848. Insurance, q 1231. q 666, q 729, q 1158. Mental HtIllth - Resignation of Director of Office of Hospitals - Roster systems in psychiatric, q 570. Psychiatric Services, q 206. Psychiatric hospitals: Libraries (Amendment) Bill, 531, 585. clinical audit, q 268, q 567, q 568, q 569, q 573; mainstreaming programs, 309, 888, q 897, q 942; Melbourne University (VCAH) Bill, 908,1198,1199, audit of standards of treatment and care, 733. 1507. Fire and Emergency Services (Miscellaneous Mission Energy, q 261. Amendments) Bill, 816. Monash University (Phannacy College) Bill, 703. Health (Radiation Safety) RegulatiOns, 715. Parliamentary Committees (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), Hospitals - Women's, 31. Yarra Junction District, 1240. 100. Psychiatric: standards of treatment and care, Points of Order - Selective quoting, 55. Reference to 733. Proposed Whittlesea, 830. Loan Council debates in same session, 462. Tabling of report, guidelines, q 836. Proposed Epping, q 1009, 1107. Relevancy of remarks, 1466, 1467. q 1165. Bush nursing, 1030. Allegations, 1468. Imputations, 1469. Hospitals and Charities (Extension) Bill, 530. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology Bill, 1277. Industrial Relations (Enterprise Bargaining) Bill, 1485. State Electricity Commission - Corporatisation, Infertility (Medical Procedures) Act - Register, 1092. q 208, q 666. q 729, q 1158. Sale of Loy Yang B power station, q 261. Medical Treatment (Agents) Bill, 299,1114,1115, 1116,1117,1118,1119. (24) INDEX

Mental Health Act - Amendments, q 942. Financial Institutions (Victoria) Bill, 1099. Mental Health Review Board - Appointment, q 150. Gambling - Gaming machines, q 7, 575. Ministerial Statements - Victorian Health System Government Commercial and Trading Enterprises Review, 848. Committee, q 145. Melbourne Hospital (Redevelopment) Bill, 1393. Government Departments and Unions -Grants, 503. Instrumentalities -Corporatisation, q 43, q 145, Victorian Ambulance Services Review, 1153. q 574, q 627, q 631, q 665, q 666, q 670, q 723, q 727, q 729, q 780, q 1158, q 1428. Victorian Health System Review, 848. Government Employee Housing Women - Breast cancer screening program, 31. Authority - Eviction of Colac family, q 207, 722. Grain Elevators (Amendment) Bill, 529, 581. Telecom Australia - Small business awards, q 1165. House Contracts Guarantee Act - Scope, 770. (See also"AOTC" and "Manufacturing and Industry Housing Guarantee Fund -Claims by Department Development'') of Planning and Housing, q 437. Registration of builders, q 481. Tenancies - Dispute at Mount Martha, 195, 199. Industrial Relations (Enterprise Bargaining) Bill, 897, Eviction of Colac family, q 207. Commercial, 892. 955. (See also "Residential Tenancies Tribunal',) Industrial Relations (Superannuation Enforcement) Bill, 897, 954. Textile, Clothing and Footwear Industry (See "Manufacturing and Industry Development") Liquor Control (Further Amendment) Bill, 576, 686. Liquor Licensing Commission - Gaming machines, q 7,575. Restaurant liquor licences, q 110. Theophanous, Hon. T. C. Oika Jika) (Minister for Appointments, q Ill, q 114, q 147. Alcohol abuse, Consumer Affairs) q 1434. Accident Compensation Commission - WorkCare McNiece Media Services - Consultancies, 1228. reports, 12, 1170. Medical Panels, Convenor of - WorkCare reports, Accident Compensation (Further Amendment) Bill, 12,1170. 1157,1181,1361,1362. Ministry, The - Ministerial responsibility: Minister Assisting the Minister for Manufacturing and Advertising - Alcohol, 834. Industry Development on Corporatisation, q 145. Alcohol- Prices, 834. Abuse, q 1434. National Tennis Centre (Amendment) Bill, 192,211, Animals - Dobennan dogs, 479. 659. Apprentices - Business training seminars, q 785. Personal Explanations - Credit Tribunal, 153. Audit (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), 433, 661. Gaming machines, 575. Auditor-General- Role, q 1099. Planning and Housing, Department of - Housing Australian Football League - Great Southern Stand, Guarantee Fund claims, q 437. 770. Match admission prices, 1095. Points of Order - Questions: must not seek opinion, Banks - Credit card transaction fees, q 1104. 7; debating, 723; scope, 724,944. Scope of Banyule Homestead, 1228. adjournment debate, 196. Tabling of reports, 1107. Proof of allegations, 1471. Remarks: relevancy, BLF Custodian - Reports: Nos 17 and 18, 12; No. 19, 1471, 1472; offensive, 1476. 1170. Prices - Electricity, q 43. Alcohol, 834. AFL match Collingwood Football Club - Membership, q 7, 575. admission, 1095. Motor car trader licence fees, Consumer Affairs - 1228. General- Vehicle impact standards, 106. Labelling of Public Account (Further Amendment) Bill (No. 2), toys, 199. Prepaid funerals, q 269. Increases in 433,659. business fees, q 633. Regional trade measurement Public Transport - Railway crossings at Church and authorities, q 783. Alcohol advertising, 834. Bay streets, Brighton, 199. McNiece Media Washing machine repair companies, q 841. Weight Services, 1228. loss centres, q 1235. Bunk beds, q 1331. Questions on Notice - Answers, 116. Ministry -lelephone infonnation service, q 439, q 1233. Adjudication branch, q 840. Use of car by Racing (Further Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, director, q 902. Consumer tribunals, q 1013. 1157, 1182, 1415. Corporatisation - Government trading enterprises, Residential Tenancies Tribunal- Delays, q 265. q 43, q 145, q 574, q 627, q 631, q 632, q 665, q 666, Appointments, q 440, q 1166. Prosecutions, q 482. q 670, q 723, q 727, q 729, q 780, q 1158, q 1428. Roads Corporation - Snow clearing on alpine roads, Credit - Unifonn legislation, q 730. 833. Credit Tribunal- Appointment of chairperson, Road Safety (Licence Cancellation) Bill, 762, 791, 972. q 113, q 114,153. Small Business, Department of - Women's seminar, Education (Out of School Education) Bill, 127, 128, 672. Banking Industry Working Group, q 487, 129. q 902. Development strategy, q 943. Goods and services tax, q 1013. Telecom awards, q 1165. Entertainment and Modelling Industry Agents Bill, 1270. Small Business Development Corporation - Forum, q 46. Green Directory, q 152. Early retired LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (25)

employees program, q 207. Tourism, q 572. Melbourne - Council, 10SO. Business training seminars for apprentices, q 785. Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology - Council, Small Claims Tribunal - Delays, q 265. 939, 1065, 1097. Appointments, q 440, q 1166. Scope, q 633. Swinburne University of Technology -Council, 939, Administration, q 1329. 1065,1097. State Electricity Commission - Morwell overburden, q 43. (See also "Government Departments and Urban Land Authority - Proposed housing Ins tru menta lit ies") development at Mont Park, q 152. Land purchases, Telecom Australia - Small business awards, q 1165. 876,1017. Tenancies - Dispute at Mount Martha, 199. Eviction of Colac family, q 207. (See also "Residential v Tenancies Tribunal',) Tourism -Small Business Development Van Buren, Hon. C. F. (Eumemmering) Corporation, q 572. Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Bill, 134. Trading Hours -Sunday, q ISO. Cemeteries - Land at Pakenham, 768. Unions - Grants, 497. Environment Protection (Resource Recovery) Bill, 974. Victorian Accident Rehabilitation Council-WorkCare reports, 12. Ethnic Affairs - Local Government Ethnic Affairs Ministerial Advisory Council, q 731. Victorian Supply Service Bill, 474, 663. Fisheries (Further Amendment) Bill, 590. Vistel Ltd - Report, 12. Women -Small business forum, 672. Hospitals - Capital works, q 1011. Financial performance of public, q 1432. WorkCare - Reports, 12,441, 1170. Industrial Relations (Enterprise Bargaining) Bill, 1473. WorkCare Appeals Board - Reports, 12, 1170. Liquor Licensing Commission -.,; Restaurant licences, q 110. Timber Industry -{See "Food and Agriculture, Loy Yang B Bill, 1374. Department of - Timber'') Manufacturing and Industry Development - Telecommunications industry TooJangi Forest Interpretative Centre, 251, 258. deregulation, q 481. Energy efficiency strategy, q 1163. Food processing, q 1325. Toorour Forest Lodge, 1004,1007. Monash University (Pharmacy College) Bill, 704. Tourism - Small Business Development Corporation, National Parks - Access for disabled, q 901. q 572. Aurora Gold Mine, 1003, 1006. Pakenham, Shire of - Cemetery land, 768. Parliament House - Smoking policy, 1506. Toyota Motor Corporation Australia Lld - Union Rural Enterprise Victoria Scheme, q 48. bans, q 1010. Tourism - Small Business Development Trading Hours -Sunday, q 150. Corporation, q 572. Unions - Grants, 510. u Western Port Development Council - Activities, q 784. Unions - Youth - Homelessness, q 267. General - Demarcation dispute in Shire of Glenelg, 98, 103. Grants, 490. Employment of officials in Varty, Hon. Rosemary (Nunawading) government departments and instrumentalities, q 629. Dental health services employees stop-work Aboriginal Land (Manahmga Land) Bill, 757, 760, 761. meeting, q 781. Dispute in nursing homes, q 1100. Aged Services - Private nursing homes, 277. Electrical Trades Union - Bans at Toyota plant, q 10lD. Asset Collateralized Equity Ltd, q 1430. Health and Community Seroices Union - Conservation and Environment - Alpine Advisory Mainstreaming programs, q 942. Committee, q 47. Mountain grazing licences, q 900. State Public Seroices Federation Victoria - Dandenong Ranges - Picnic areas, 34. Land Mainstreaming programs, q 942. purchase program, 143. Victorian Secondary Teachers Association - Economic and Budget Review Agreement, 11. Committee - Estimates Subcommittee reports: 1991-92 Budget Estimates, 13; World Congress United Nations Conference on Environment and Centre, 1107, 1242. Development, Rio de Janeiro, q 781, q 1103. Gas and Fuel Corporation - Public authority dividend, q 731. Securitisation of trade Universities - receivables, q 941, q 1430. Asset Collateralized Deakin - Council, 939, 1065, 1097. Equity Ltd, q 1430. General- Places, 154. Illicit drugs, 194, 198. Medical Hospitals - Clinical audit of psychiatric, q 573. Bush student numbers, 195, 198. nursing, 645. Hospitals and Charities (ExtenSion) Bill, 529. (26) INDEX

Local Government (Elections) Bill, 230, 237, 240, 241, Western Port Development Coundl- Activities, 243,246. q 784. Melba, Dame Nellie - Lilydale Historic Museum, 254. Melbourne Water -Securitisation of trade White, Hon. D. R. (Doutta Galla) (Minister for receivables, q 941, q 1430. Manufacturing and Industry Development, and National Parks - Training for friends groups, 197. Minister responsible for Ports) Mountain grazing licences, q 900. Abattoirs - Camperdown dispute, 256. Outer Eastern Group Training Ltd, 476. Administrative Arrangements -Orders: Nos 98 to Points of Order - Length of answer, 47. Scope of 102, 12; Nos 103 and 104,209; Nos 105 to 108,906. adjournment debate, 249. Inaudible question, n8. Air Services - Airlines merger, q 1162. Sherbrooke, Shire of - Annexation proposal, 98. Albury-Wodonga Development Corporation­ State Electridty Commission - Securitisation of Ministerial Council meeting dates, 773. trade receivables, q 941, q 1430. Appointments, q 1011. Swinburne University of Technology Bill, 1349. Alpine Resorts (Amendment) Bill, 762, 788, 1198. Universities - Places, 168. Altona - Mobil refinery upgrade, q 900. World Congress Centre, 1107, 1242. Appropriation Guly to October) Bill, 777, 788, 1514. Asset Collateralized Equity Ltd, q 1430, q 1431. Auditor-General-Role, q 898, q 941, q 1009, q 1158. VIC ROADS (See "Roads Corporation") Report on Bayside project, 1446. Australian Cement Ltd, Geelong - Gas tariffs, Victoria Grants Commission - Allocations, 889, 894, q 1432. 1226,1228. Australian Defence Industries - Benalla project, q 5. Victoria Police - Australian Paper Manufacturers - Pulp and paper Crime - Bureau of crime statistics, 520, 734. mill, Maryvale, q 433. Bank Integration Bill, 1489, 1508. General - Traffic fines: for pensioners and jobless, 194,198; uncollected, q 1330. Banking (Premium Accounts) Bill, 1489, 1509. Victorian Ambulance Services Review, 1153, 1155. Bayside Project, q 1, q 2, q 4, q 6, q 8, q 9, q 39, q 41, q 668,1446. Victorian Equity Trust - Debt management, q 145, Boating - Mooring fees, q 435. q 147. Business of the House - Sittings, 777. Sessional Victorian Family and Children's Services Council­ Orders, 1157. Report, 12. Collingwood Land (Victoria Park) Bill, 1056. Coode Island - Landy report, q 262, 313. Victorian Government Major Projects Unit (See Corporatisation - Government trading enterprises, "Major Projects Unit") q 111, q 205, q 208, q 630, q 631, q 632. Victorian Health System Review, 841, 843, 1043, Dangerous Goods - Landy report on Coode Island, q 1328. q 262, 313. Docklands Authority - Port of Melbourne Authority Victorian Accident Rehabilitation Council - land, 773. WorkCare reports, 12. Economic and Budget Review Committee - Membership, 118. Victree Timber Products Pty Lld, 1004, 1007. Employment (See Priority Victoria) Vistel Lld - Report, 12. Sale, 118, q 434. Extractive Industries - Chewton quarry licence, 940. Finance - Debt: management, q 4, q 7, q 145, q 147; w equity swap, q 778, q 779. Gambling - Gaming machines, q 10lD. Casino for Walker, Hon. E. H. (Melbourne) Geelong, q 1166. Gas and Fuel Corporation - Corporatisation, q 111, Animals - Feral, q 946. q 205, q 208, q 630. q 631. Public authority Parliament House - Smoking policy, 1506. dividend, q 667, q 731. Comments of chairman, Salinity - Saltwatch program, q 630. q 777. Securitisation of trade receivables, q 941, q 1430. Tariffs, q 1432. Golden Aluminium, Bendigo, 257. Waste Management (See "Conservation and Government, The - Advertising programs, q 1328. Environment" and "Dangerous Goods") Government Appointments Committee - Minister Water (See "Melbourne Water") for Transport, 92. Alleged breach of privilege, 209. Second interim report, 209. Government Departments and Instrumentalities - Debt management, q 4, q 7, q 145, q 147. Corporatisation, q 111, q 205, q 208, q 630, q 631. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (27)

Debt-equity swap, q 778, q 779. Destruction of Premier and Cabinet, Department of the - records, 832. Destruction of records, 832. HMVS Cerberus, 478. Prices - Electricity, q 111. Gas, q 1432. Hospital Benefits Association Ltd - Merger, 893. Priority Victoria - A statement on jobs, 192, q 1231, Industrial Relations (Enterprise Bargaining) Bill, 1465. q 1325. Industrial Relations (Superannuation Enforcement) Public Bodies Review Committee - Membership, Bill,1275. 118. Latrobe Regional Commission - Report, q 109. Public Transport - Melbourne-Adelaide rail service, Legislative Council - Housekeeper, 1504. q 10. Liberal Party - Alleged activities of president, 256. Questions on Notice - Answers, 10, SO, 117, 152,208, 575,785,949,1168. Loy Yang B Bill, 1157, 1189, 1399, 1400, 1401, 1404, 1405, 1406, 1407. State Electricity (Amendment) Bill, 23, 24. Major Projects - Bayside, q 1, q 2, q 4, q 6, q 8, q 9, State Electricity Commission - National electricity q 39, q 41, q 668, 1446. grid, q 108. Morwell overburden, q 111, q 483. Corporatisation, q 111, q 205, q 208, q 630, q 631. Major Projects Unit - Report, SO. Sale of Loy Yang B power station, 197, q 201, Manufacturing and Industry Development - q 206, q 261, q 263, q 437, q 485, q 730, q 718, q 901, Department - Fol request of mining companies, 34. q 1102. Regional power conference, 831. Appointment of deputy director-general, 257. Securitisation of trade receivables, q 941, q 1430. General - Food processing, q 146, q 629, q 1325. Stockpiling, q 946. Golden Aluminium, Bendigo, 257. Landy Report State Electricity Commission (Minimum Energy on Coode Island, q 262, 313. Maryvale pulp and Efficiency Levels) Bill, 686, 754. paper mill, q 433. Telecommunications industry: Strategic Research Foundation -Chainnan, q 263. deregulation, q 481; investment and employment, Superannuation (Occupational Superannuation q 569; AOTC, q 728. Exports to Asia, q 666. Textile, Standards) Bill, 1086, 1111, 1292. clothing and footwear industry, q 942, q 943, q 1428. Energy: commercial building code, q 1101; Supply (1992-93, No. 1) Bill, 723, 755, 757, 1514. efficiency strategy, q 1163. Information Taxation - Financial institutions duty on roll-over technology, q 1232. Undersea electricity"cable link, tenn deposits, 144. q 1327. Toyota Motor Corporation Australia Ltd - Union Manufacturing Council of Victoria - Activities, bans, q 1010. q836. Treasury Corporation of Victoria Bill, 1157, 1332. Melbourne Water - Securitisation of trade University of Melbourne -Council, 10SO. receivables, q 941, q 1431. (See also Vennin and Noxious Weeds (Poison Baits) Bill, 531. "Corpora tisa tion") Victorian Equity Trust - Debt management, q 145, Ministerial Statements - Parliamentary reform, 96. q 147. Ministry, The - Absence of Minister, 201, 433, 723. Vistel Ltd - Sale, 118, q 434. Mission Energy, q 201, q 206, q 261, q 263. Works and Services (Ancillary Provisions, 1992-93, Mobil Oil Australia Ltd - Altona refinery upgrade, No. 1) Bill, 723, 756, 757,1514. q9oo. Mutual Community Ltd - Merger, 893. Parliament - Refonn, 96. Wildlife (See "Animals", "Birds" and "Conservation and Environment'') Parliament House - Smoking policy, lS06. Parliamentary Committees (Amendment) Bill (No. 2), Wildlife Regul~tions 1992, 1225, 1228. 843,1237. Points of Order - Selective quoting, 55. Alleged Witness Protection Act _. Report, SO. breach of privilege, 209. Sub judice rule, 250. Remarks: offensive, 726, 1468; relevancy, 1223, Women - Breast cancer screening program, 31, 37, 1291, 1466, 1467, 1470. Scope of question, 778. q 632. Barwon South West Women's Health Service, Reflection on Auditor-General, 1159. Imputations, 312,315. Small business forum, q 672. Industry 1469. restructuring, q 732. Port of Melbourne Authority (Amendment) Bill, 576, Wonn~ng~tt~ St~tion - Grass slashing, q 839. 661,797,798,799. Portland Smelter Unit Trust - Proposed sale of Woodchipping - By Midway Pty Ltd, 99, 103. Portland smelter, q 839. Ports - WorkCare - Reports, 12,441, 1170. Claim by City of Moe,28,34. General - Mooring fees, q 435. Melbourne - Bayside project, q 1, q 2, q 4, q 6, q 8, WorkCue Appe~ls Board - Reports, 12, 1170. q 9, q 39, q 41. Russian contract, q 107, q 109. East Swanson Dock, q 434, q 436, q 483, 719, q 1162. World Congress Centre - Report, 1107, 1242. HMVS Cerberus, 478. Docklands Authority land, 773. Gem Pier, Williamstown, 893, q 947. World World Environment Week, q 781, q 1103. Trade Centre, q 1233. (28) INDEX

World Trade Centre, q 1233.

Wright, Hon. K.I. M. (North Western) Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals Bill, 131. Defence Service Homes - Merbein, 247. Hospitals - Bush nursing, 1034. Sewerage - In Mildura area, 32.

y

Yarra Plenty Regional Library Service, 714.

Youth - Security accommodation for intellectually disabled, 255. Homelessness, q 267. Accommodation, q 671. Youth Policy Development Council, q 837. Kids on the Brink program, Bendigo, 891,894. National policy, q 90S. Smoking by, q 1012. Enterprise program, q 1015. Ministers council, q 1236. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (29) QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

Listed in numerical order of questions on notice answered during period covered by this index.

Ministerial portfolios and abbreviations

Conservation and Environment C&E Consumer Affairs Cons Affs Education and Training E&T Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs EM&CA Gaming Gaming Health Health Major Projects Maj Proj Manufacturing and Industry Development M&ID Ports Ports Small Business SB

Qn Date Page No. Subject matter Asked by A nswered by Answered No.

496 Staffing and Salaries - Labour MrAshman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 28.4.92 1521 733 Overseas Trips - Attorney-General's MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 7.4.92 537 Department 770 Estate Agents Guarantee Fund MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 7.4.92 539 925 Consultancies - Labour MrAshman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 19.5.92 1582 952 Staffing - Labour MrAshman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 317 977 Films and Videos -Attorney-General MrStorey Mrs Lyster (Health) 7.4.92 540 985 Films andVideos - Labour MrStorey Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 317 991 Accident Compensation Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 318 Regulations - Labour 1000 Grants - Municipal Mr Lawson Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 319 Officers Association 1001 Grants - Victorian Mr Lawson Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 319 Trades Hall Council 1037 Staff Attrition Rate- Mr Ashman Mr Pullen (C &: E) 24.3.92 423 Water Resources 1046 Opinion Polls - Treasury Mr Birrell Mr White (M &: ID) 17.3.92 322 1053 Opinion Polls - Attorney-General Mr Birrell Mrs Lyster (Health) 7.4.92 540 1056 Opinion Polls - Labour Mr Birrell Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 322 1071 Rented Properties - Attorney-General Mr Ashman Mrs Lyster (Health) 7.4.92 540 1078 Rented Properties - Labour Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 323 1105 Motor Vehicles - Transport MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 17.3.92 325 1112 Motor Vehicles - Labour MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 7.4.92 541 1116 Property, Vehicles and MrCraige Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 28.4.92 152 Equipment - Labour 1117 Publications - Labour MrCraige Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 28.4.92 1530 1131 Road Safety Campaigns - Mr Best Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 17.3.92 326 Transport 1132 Unpaid Fines- Mr Best Mrs Lyster (Health) 7.4.92 542 Attomey-General's Department 1162 Consultant - Labour Mr Birrell Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 327 1168 Speed Cameras - Mr Skeggs Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 327 "Away" Shots 1170 Speed Cameras - Mr Skeggs Mrs Lyster (Health) 14.4.92 560 Infringement Notices 1176 Publication "Fairplay" MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 327 (30) INDEX

Qn Date Page No. Subject matter Asked by Answered by Answered No.

1178 Publication "Price Action" MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Aiis) 7.4.92 542 1182 Unsewered Properties MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 7.4.92 543 1184 Omnimax Theatre - Funding Mr Birrell Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 7.4.92 544 1185 Traffic in Melbourne Study MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 328 1201 Grants - Labour MrSmith Mr Theophanous (Cons Aifs) 18.3.92 405 1202 Grants - Police and MrSmith Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 328 Emergency Services 1203 Grants - Corrections MrSmith Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 332 1208 Grants - Transport MrSmith Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 28.4.92 1536 1211 Grants - Treasury MrSmith Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 333 1214 Grants -Premier MrSmith Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 340 1216 Grants - Finance MrSmith Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 341 1227 Hospitals and Health Mrs Tehan Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 342 Facilities - Expenditure and Completion Dates 1232 Former Ethnic Affairs MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 5.5.92 1576 Chairman - Employment and Overseas Trips 1233 Lovell Report MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 7.4.92 545 1236 EFT Positions - Community MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 24.3.92 423 Services 1240 Bandicoot Breeding Program Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (C & E) 18.3.92 413 1241 Prosecutions - EPA Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (then E &: T) 17.3.92 343 1242 Licence Fees and Fines - EP A Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (C & E) 17.3.92 343 1246 Vic Image - Planning MrStorey Mr Pullen (C & E) 8.4.92 559 and Housing 1247 Vic Image - Sport MrStorey Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 344 and Recreation 1248 Vic Image - Conservation Mr Storey Mr Pullen (C & E) 17.3.92 345 and Environment 1249 Vic Image - Ports MrStorey Mr White (Ports) 17.3.92 351 1250 Vic Image - Ethnic, Municipal MrStorey Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 351 and Community Affairs 1251 Vic Image - Health Mr Storey Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 352 1252 Vie Image - Education Mr Storey Mr Pullen (E & T) 7.4.92 545 and Training 1253 Vie Image - Arts MrStorey Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 352 1254 Vic Image - Treasury MrStorey Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 352 1255 Vic Image - Small Business MrStorey MrTheophanous(SB) 18.3.92 414 1256 Vie Image - Food and Mr Storey Mr Pullen (C & E) 28.4.92 1545 Agriculture 1257 Vic Image - Police and Mr Storey Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 353 Emergency Services 1258 Vie Image - Major Projects Mr Storey Mr White (Acting Maj Proj) 17.3.92 353 1260 Vic Image - Transport MrStorey Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 354 1261 Infrastructure Contributions - Mr Chamberlain Mr Pullen (then E & T) 17.3.92 354 Urban Land Authority 1262 Grampians (Gariwerd) Campaign Mr Chamberlain Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 355 1263 Ministerial Review of School MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 17.3.92 355 Entry Age Committee 1265 Traralgon Manager - Department MrAshman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 24.3.92 424 of Labour 1266 Theatre Projectionists Licensing MrAshman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 356 1267 Special Day Off - Ports MrAshman Mr White (Ports) 17.3.92 363 1268 Special Day Off - Small Business Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (SB) 18.3.92 414 1269 Special Day Off - Manufacturing Mr Ashman Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 363 and Industry Development LEGISLA TIVE COUNCIL (31)

Qn Date Page No. Subject matter Asked by Answered by Answered No.

1270 Payments - State Mr Ashman Mr White (M &t ID) 21.5.92 1626 Superannuation Board 1271 Superannuation - Department of Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 363 Labour Employees 1272 Termination Package - Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 364 Labour Inspector 1272 Termination Package - Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 7.4.92 547 Labour Inspectorate 1273 Government Programs for MrAshman Mrs Hogg (EM &t CA) 18.3.92 415 Homeless Youth 1275 Enhanced Resignation Package- Mr Ashman Mrs Hogg (EM &t CA) 17.3.92 364 Arts 1276 Enhanced Resignation Package- Mr Ashman Mrs Lyster (Health) 7.4.92 547 Health 1277 Enhanced Resignation Package - Mr Ashman Mr White (M &t ID) 17.3.92 365 Manufacturing and Industry Development 1278 Enhanced Resignation Package- Mr Ashman Mr White (then Gaming) 17.3.92 365 Gaming 1278 Enhanced ReSignation Package - Mr Ashman Mr White (M &t ID) 25.3.92 429 Gaming 1279 Enhanced ReSignation Package- Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (SB) 18.3.92 416 Small Business 1281 Enhanced Resignation Package - Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 36S Sport and Recreation 1285 Enhanced ReSignation Package - Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 28.4.92 1545 Labour 1288 Enhanced Resignation Package- Mr Ashman Mr White (Acting Maj Proj) 17.3.92 366 Major Projects 1289 Enhanced Resignation Package - Mr Ashman Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 366 Police and Emergency Services 1290 Enhanced Resignation Package - Mr Ashman Mr White (Ports) 17.3.92 367 Ports 1291 Enhanced Resignation Package - Mr Ashman Mr White (M &t ID) 17.3.92 367 Finance 1293 Enhanced Resignation Package - Mr Ashman Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 367 Corrections 1294 Enhanced Resignation Package- Mr Ashman Mr Pullen (then E &t T) 17.3.92 368 Agriculture 1295 Enhanced Resignation Package - MrAshman Mr Pullen (C &t E) 17.3.92 368 Education and Training 1296 Enhanced Resignation Package - Mr Ashman Mrs Hogg (EM &t CA) 17.3.92 368 Education and Training 1297 Enhanced Resignation Package- Mr Ashman Mr White (M &t ID) 17.3.92 369 Premier 1298 Staff Attrition Rate - Ports Mr Ashman Mr White (Ports) 17.3.92 369 1299 Staff Attrition Rate- Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 370 Consumer Affairs 1300 Staff Attrition Rate - Arts Mr Ashman Mrs Hogg (EM &t CA) 7.4.92 547 1301 Staff Attrition Rate - Health Mr Ashman Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 370 1302 Staff Attrition Rate- Mr Ashman Mr White (M &t ID) 18.3.92 416 Manufacturing and Industry Development 1303 Staff Attrition Rate - Gaming Mr Ashman Mr White (M &t ID) 25.3.92 429 1304 Staff Attrition Rate - Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (SB) 18.3.92 416 Small Business 1305 Staff Attrition Rate- MrAshman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 371 Sport and Recreation (32) INDEX

Qn Date Page No. Subject matter Asked by Answered by Answered No.

1306 Staff Attrition Rate - Mr Ashman Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 19.5.92 1591 Community Services 1307 Staff Attrition Rate- Mr Ashman Mr Pullen (C & E) 17.3.92 372 Conservation and Environment 1308 Staff Attrition Rate - Mr Ashman Mr Pullen (then E & T) 17.3.92 372 Planning and Housing 1309 Staff Attrition Rate - Labour Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 372 1311 Staff Attrition Rate- Mr Ashman Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 373 Aboriginal Affairs 1312 Staff Attrition Rate - Finance Mr Ashman Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 373 1313 Staff Attrition Rate - Corrections MrAshman Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 373 1314 Staff Attrition Rate - Mr Ashman Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 374 Police and Emergency Services 1315 Staff Attrition Rate - Agriculture Mr Ashman Mr Pullen (then E & T) 17.3.92 374 1317 Staff Attrition Rate - Transport Mr Ashman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 28.4.92 1546 1318 Staff Attrition Rate- Mr Ashman Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 24.3.92 425 Education and Training 1318 Staff Attrition Rate - Mr Ashman Mr Pullen (E & T) 7.4.92 548 Education and Training Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 7.4.92 548 1319 Staff Attrition Rate - Mr Ashman Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 375 Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs 1320 Staff Attrition Rate - Premier Mr Ashman Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 376 1321 Fonner Ethnic Affairs Commission MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 18.3.92 417 Chairman - Employment Tennination 1322 Appointments - Ethnic Affairs MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 18.3.92 417 Commission 1323 Workforce Management Unit- MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 376 Department of Labour 1323 Workforce Management Unit- MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 5.5.92 1576 Department of Labour 1324 Braeside Joint Venture Proposal MrConnard Mr Pullen (then E & T) 17.3.92 376 1325 Taxi Hire for Train Crews Mr Wright Mrs' Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 377 1326 Government Outlay on Schools Mr Wright Mr Pullen (then E & T) 17.3.92 377 1328 Inter-country Adoptions - Applicants Mrs Varty Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 378 1329 Inter-country Adoptions - Approvals Mrs Varty Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 19.5.92 1592 1330 Child Abuse - Reports Mrs Varty Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 379 and Prosecutions 1331 Natural Gas Contract Mr Chamberlain Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 379 1333 Fonner Ministerial Adviser- Mr Birrell Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 380 Manufacturing and Industry Development 1335 Fonner Ministerial Adviser - Mr Birrell Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 18.3.92 418 Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs 1336 Fonner Ministerial Adviser- Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (C & E) 24.3.92 425 Education and Training 1336 Fonner Ministerial Adviser- Mr Birrell Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 7.4.92 549 Education and Training 1336 Fonner Ministerial Adviser- Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (C & E) 25.3.92 429 Education and Training 1337 Fonner Ministerial Adviser - Mr Birrell Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 380 Health 1338 Fonner Ministerial Adviser - Mr Birrell Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 380 Consumer Affairs 1339 Fonner Ministerial Adviser -- Mr Birrell Mr White (M & ID) 7.4.92 549 Finance LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (33)

Qn Date Page No. Subject matter Asked by Answered by Answered No.

1340 Former Ministerial Adviser- Mr Birrell Mr White (M & ID) 28.4.92 1546 Major Projects 1341 Former Ministerial Adviser - . Mr Birrell Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 381 Premier 1342 Former Ministerial Adviser - Mr Birrell Mr Theophanous (SB) 18.3.92 418 Small Business 1343 Former Ministerial Adviser- Mr Birrell Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 381 Tourism 1345 Former Ministerial Adviser - Mr Birrell Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 381 Aboriginal Affairs 1346 Former Ministerial Adviser - Mr Birrell Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 24.3.92 426 Arts 1347 Former Ministerial Adviser - Mr Birrell Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 382 Community Services 1348 Former Ministerial Adviser- Mr Birrell Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 382 Transport 1349 Former Ministerial Adviser- Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (then E & n 18.3.92 418 Agriculture 1350 Former Ministerial Adviser - Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (C & E) 17.3.92 382 Conservation and Environment 1351 Former Ministerial Adviser - Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (C & E) 7.4.92 550 Planning and Housing 1352 Former Ministerial Adviser - Mr Birrell Mrs Lyster (Health) 19.5.92 1592 Attorney-General 1353 Former Ministerial Adviser - Mr Birrell Mrs Lyster (Health) 19.5.92 1593 Corrections 1354 Former Ministerial Adviser- Mr Birrell Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 383 Police and Emergency Services 1355 Former Ministerial Adviser - Mr Birrell Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 7.4.92 550 Labour 1356 Former Ministerial Adviser- Mr Birrell Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 383 Sport and Recreation 1357 Journalists - Manufacturing MrConnard Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 383 and Industry Development 1358 Journalists - Ethnic, Municipal MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 18.3.92 419 and Community Affairs 1359 Journalists - Education MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 17.3.92 385 and Training 1359 Journalists - Education MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 7.4.92 550 and Training Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 7.4.92 550 1360 Journalists - Health MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 385 1361 Journalists - Consumer Affairs MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 386 1362 Journalists - Finance MrConnard Mr White (M & ID) 7.4.92 551 1363 Journalists - Major Projects MrConnard Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 387 1364 Journalists - Small Business MrConnard Mr Theophanous (SB) 7.4.92 551 1365 Journalists - Tourism MrConnard Mr White (M & ID) 17.3.92 387 1366 Journalists - Treasury MrConnard Mr White (M & ID) 7.4.92 552 1367 Journalists - Aboriginal Affairs MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 388 1368 Journalists - Arts MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 388 1369 Journalists - Community Services MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 17.3.92 388 1371 Journalists - Food and Agriculture MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 18.3.92 419 1373 Journalists - Housing MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 7.4.92 552 and Planning 1375 Journalists - Corrections MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 389 1376 Journalists - Police and MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 389 Emergency Services 1377 Journalists - Labour MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 18.3.92 420 (34) INDEX

Qn Date Page No. Subject mIltter Asktd by Answered by Answertd No.

1378 Journalists - Sport and MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 390 Recreation 1319 Journalists - Child Care MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 17.3.92 391 1380 Journalists - Women's Affairs MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 25.3.92 430 1381 Journalists - Premier MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 25.3.92 430 1383 Road Funds MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 29.4.92 1557 1384 Public Hospitals - Effective MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 19.5.92 1593 Full-time Staff 1385 Staff - Manufacturing and MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 17.3.92 391 Industry Development 1386 Staff - Gaming MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 7.4.92 552 1387 Staff - Ethnic, Municipal and MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 18.3.92 421 Community Affairs 1388 Staff - Education and Training MrConnard Mr Pullen (E &: T) 7.4.92 553 1388 Staff - Education and Training MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 26.5.92 1635 1389 Staff - Health MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 392 1390 Staff - Consumer Affairs MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 7.4.92 553 1391 Staff - Finance MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 7.4.92 554 1392 Staff - Major Projects MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 24.3.92 426 1393 Staff - Premier MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 25.3.92 431 1394 Staff - Small Business MrConnard Mr Theophanous (SB) 7.4.92 555 1395 Staff - Tourism MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 18.3.92 421 1396 Staff - Treasury MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 17.3.92 393 1397 Staff - Aboriginal Affairs MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 17.3.92 393 1398 Staff -Arts MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 17.3.92 394 1399 Staff - Community Services MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 17.3.92 394 1401 Staff - Food and Agriculture MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 18.3.92 422 1402 Staff - Conservation and MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 17.3.92 395 Environment 1403 Staff - Planning and Housing MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 7.4.92 556 1405 Staff - Corrections MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 14.4.92 563 1405 Staff - Corrections MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 19.5.92 1594 1406 Staff - Police and MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 14.4.92 S63 Emergency Services 1407 Staff - Labour MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 28.4.92 1547 1408 Staff - Sport and Recreation MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 396 1409 Staff - Child Care MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 17.3.92 396 1410 Staff - Women's Affairs MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 25.3.92 432 1411 Staff - Ports MrConnard Mr White (Ports) 17.3.92 397 1412 State Development Fund - Mr Birrell Mr White (M &: ID) 17.3.92 397 Loans to Major Projects Unit 1413 Property and Lands - Mr Birrell Mr White (M &: ID) 7.4.92 556 Major Projects Unit 1414 Jolimont-Eastside Project MrBirrell Mr White (M &: ID) 24.3.92 426 1415 Salmonella - Yarra River MrBirrell Mr Pullen (C &: E) 17.3.92 398 1416 Museum Air Monitoring Station Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (then E &: T) 17.3.92 398 1417 Treasury Buildings - Media MrKennedy Mr White (M &: ID) 17.3.92 399 ~an~tionsOCcupancy 1418 Open Space 2000 Programs MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 24.3.92 427 1419 Victorian Environmental MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 17.3.92 399 Education Council 1420 Housing Projects MrConnard Mr Pullen (E &: T) 7.4.92 557 1421 Health Department Employee MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 400 1422 Liquor Licence Holders - MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 401 Charges and Convictions 1423 Liquor Licence Holders - MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 17.3.92 401 Receivers and Bankruptcy Fees 1424 Public Hospitals - Budgets MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 401 LEGISLA TIVE COUNCIL (35)

Qn Date Page No. Subject ""'Iter Asked l1y Answered by Answered No.

1425 Fluoridated Water Supply Testing MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 17.3.92 402 1426 Pensioners - Winter MrAshman Mr White (M &: ID) 17.3.92 402 Electricity Discount 1427 Pensioners - Winter Gas MrAshman Mr White (M &: ID) 17.3.92 403 and Fuel Discount 1428 Pensioners - Motor Vehicle MrAshman Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 17.3.92 403 Registration Concessions 1429 Victorian College of the Arts MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 26.5.92 1635 Secondary School 1430 Fluoridation - Infant Fonnulas MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 28.4.92 1547 1432 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 14.4.92 564 Health Department Victoria 1433 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 19.5.92 1594 Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs 1434 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 14.4.92 564 Department of Conservation and Environment 1435 Employment of Former Member - MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 28.4.92 1548 Manufacturing and Industry Development 1437 Employment of Former Member - MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 28.5.92 1647 Premier 1436 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 26.5.92 1636 Consumer Affairs 1439 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr Punen (C &: E) 28.4.92 1548 Food and Agriculture 1440 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 28.4.92 1548 Finance 1441 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr Punen (C &: E) 28.4.92 1549 Planning and Housing 1442 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 14.4.92 564 Police and Emergency Services 1443 Employment of Former Member - MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 19.5.92 1594 Community Services 1444 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 21.5.92 1626 Treasury 1445 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 19.5.92 1595 Transport 1446 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Alfs) 26.5.92 1636 Sport and Recreation 1447 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 7.4.92 558 Aboriginal Affairs 1448 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 7.4.92 558 Gaming 1448 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 19.5.92 1595 Gaming 1449 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr Punen (C &: E) 5.5.92 1576 Employment, Post-Secondary Education and Training 1450 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 29.4.92 1558 Education 1452 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 19.5.92 1595 Major Projects 1453 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 5.5.92 1577 Water Resources 1454 Employment of Fonner Member - MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 2.6.92 1649 Arts (36) INDEX

Qn Date Page No. Subject matter Asked by Answered by Answered No.

1456 Employment of Former Member - MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 28.4.92 1549 Corrections 1457 Opinion Polls - Labour Mr Birrell Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 19.5.92 1595 1459 Publications - Conservation MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 21.5.92 1627 and Environment 1460 Publications - Consumer Affairs Mr Skeggs Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 2.6.92 1649 1461 Publications - Health MrSkeggs Mrs Lyster (Health) 29.4.92 1558 1462 Publications - Ethnic, Municipal MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 19.5.92 1596 and Community Affairs 1463 Publications - Ports MrSkeggs Mr White (M &: ID) 29.4.92 1559 1464 . Publications - Manufacturing MrSkeggs Mr White (M &: ID) 29.4.92 1560 and Industry Development 1465 Publications - Sport MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 26.5.92 1636 and Recreation 1468 Publications - Child-care MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 26.5.92 1638 1469 Publications - Community Services Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 26.5.92 1638 1471 Publications - Police and Mr Skeggs Mrs Lyster (Health) 19.5.92 1599 Emergency Services 1474 Publications - Aboriginal Affairs Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 19.5.92 1601 1475 Publications - Employment, Mr Skeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 19.5.92 1601 Post-Secondary Education and Training 1478 Publications - Planning MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 4.6.92 1655 and Housing 1479 Publications - Water Resources MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 19.5.92 1602 1480 Publications - Tourism Mr Skeggs Mr White (M &: ID) 21.5.92 1629 1481 Publications - Food and Agriculture MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 28.4.92 1549 1485 Publications - Women's Affairs Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 19.5.92 1602 1486 Publications - Premier Mr Skeggs Mr White (M &: ID) 19.5.92 1603 1488 Salaries - Conservation Mr Skeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 21.5.92 1629 and Environment 1490 Salaries - Health Mr Skeggs Mrs Lyster (Health) 28.4.92 1551 1491 Salaries - Ethnic, Municipal Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 19.5.92 1606 and Community Affairs 1491 Salaries - Ethnic, Municipal Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 20.5.92 1622 and Community Affairs 1492 Salaries - Ports Mr Skeggs Mr White (M &: ID) 20.5.92 1623 1493 Salaries - Manufacturing Mr Skeggs Mr White (M &: ID) 5.5.92 1577 and Industry Development 1494 Salaries - Sport and Recreation MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 26.5.92 1639 1497 Salaries - Child-care MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 26.5.92 1640 1498 Salaries - Community Services MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 26.5.92 1641 1502 Salaries - Gaming Mr Skeggs Mr White (M &: ID) 19.5.92 1607 1503 Salaries - Aboriginal Affairs MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 19.5.92 1607 1504 Salaries - Employment, MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 19.5.92 1607 Post-Secondary Education and Training 1506 Salaries - Labour MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 10.6.92 1660 1507 Salaries - Planning and Housing MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 4.6.92 1657 1508 Salaries - Water Resources MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 19.5.92 1608 1510 Salaries - Food and Agriculture MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 28.4.92 1552 1511 Salaries - Major Projects MrSkeggs Mr White (M &: ID) 19.5.92 1609 1517 Geelong Staff - Conservation MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 28.4.92 1552 and Environment 1518 Gee!ong Staff -Consumer Affairs MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 26.5.92 1642 1519 Geelong Staff - Ports MrSkeggs Mrs Lyster (Health) 28.4.92 1552 1520 Geelong Staff - Ethnic, MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 19.5.92 1610 Municipal and Community Affairs LEGISLA TIVE COUNCIL (37)

Qn Date Page No. Subject matter Asked by Answered by Answered No.

1521 Geelong Staff - Ports Mr Skeggs Mr White (M & ID) 29.4.92 1574 1522 Geelong Staff - Manufacturing Mr Skeggs Mr White (M eSt ID) 29.4.92 1574 and Industry Development 1523 Geelong Staff - Sport and Recreation MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 26.5.92 1642 1526 Geelong Staff - Child-care Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 26.5.92 1643 1527 Geelong Staff -Community Services MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 26.5.92 1643 1529 Geelong Staff - Police Mr Skeggs Mrs Lyster (Health) 19.5.92 1610 and Emergency Services 1530 Geelong Staff - Treasury MrSkeggs Mr White (M &10) 21.5.92 1630 1531 Geelong Staff - Gaming Mr Skeggs Mr White (M & ID) 19.5.92 1610 1532 Geelong Staff - Aboriginal Affairs Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM eSt CA) 14.4.92 565 1533 Geelong Staff - Employment, Mr Skeggs Mr Pullen (C & E) 6.5.92 1581 Post-Secondary Education and Training 1535 Geelong Staff - Labour Mr Skeggs Mr Theophanoous (Cons Affs) 19.5.92 1610 1536 Geelong Staff - Planning Mr Skeggs Mr Punen (C & E) 26.5.92 1643 and Housing 1537 Geelong Staff - Water Resources Mr Skeggs Mr Punen (C & E) 19.5.92 1611 1538 Geelong Staff - Tourism Mr Skeggs Mr White (M & ID) 19.5.92 1611 1538 Geelong Staff - Ethnic, Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 20.5.92 1624 Municipal and Community Affairs 1539 Geelong Staff - Food and Agriculture Mr Skeggs Mr Punen (C & E) 28.4.92 1553 1540 Geelong Staff - Major Projects Mr Skeggs Mr White (M & ID) 28.4.92 1553 1543 Geelong Staff - Women's Affairs Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 14.4.92 565 1544 Geelong Staff - Premier Mr Skeggs Mr White (M & ID) 14.4.92 565 1546 Trade Union Grants - Mr Skeggs Mr Pullen (C & E) 28.4.92 1553 Conservation and Environment 1547 Trade Union Grants - MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 2.6.92 1651 Consumer Affairs 1548 Trade Union Grants - Health Mr Skeggs Mrs Lyster (Health) 21.5.92 1630 1549 Trade Union Grants - Ethnic, Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 19.5.92 1611 Municipal and Community Affairs 1549 Trade Union Grants - Ethnic, Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 20.5.92 1624 Municipal and Community Affairs 1550 Trade Union Grants - Ports Mr Skeggs Mr White (M & ID) 29.4.92 1574 1551 Trade Union Grants - Mr Skeggs Mr White (M & ID) 29.4.92 1575 Manufacturing and Ind ustry Development 1552 Trade Union Grants - MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 26.5.92 1644 Sport and Recreation 1555 Trade Union Grants - Child-care Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 26.5.92 1644 1556 Trade Union Grants - Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 26.5.92 1644 Community Services 1558 Trade Union Grants - Mr Skeggs Mrs Lyster (Health) 19.5.92 1612 Police and Emergency Services 1559 Trade Union Grants - Treasury MrSkeggs Mr White (M eSt ID) 21.5.92 1632 1560 Trade Union Grants - Gaming MrSkeggs Mr White (M & ID) 19.5.92 1612 1561 Trade Union Grants - Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 14.4.92 565 Aboriginal Affairs 1563 Trade Union Grants - Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM eSt CA) 4.6.92 1658 School Education 1565 Trade Union Grants - MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C & E) 10.6.92 1661 Planning and Housing 1566 Trade Union Grants - Mr Skeggs Mr Pullen (C & E) 19.5.92 1612 Water Resources 1567 Trade Union Grants - MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C & E) 28.4.92 1553 Food and Agriculture (38) INDEX

Qn Date Page No. Subject mJltter Asked by Answered by Answered No.

1568 Trade Union Grants - Tourism MrSkeggs Mr White (M &: ID) 14.4.92 566 1569 Trade Union Grants - Major Projects MrSkeggs Mr White (M &: ID) 28.4.92 1554 1572 Trade Union Grants - Women's Affairs Mr Skeggs Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 28.5.92 1647 1573 Trade Union Grants - Premier MrSkeggs Mr White (M &: ID) 28.5.92 1647 1574 Overseas Trips - Community Services Mr Connard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 26.5.92 1645 1575 Overseas Trips - Conservation MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 5.5.92 1580 and Environment 1577 Overseas Trips - Tourism MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 28.4.92 1554 1578 Overseas Trips - Treasurer MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 2.6.92 1651 1580 Overseas Trips - Premier MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 14.4.92 566 1583 Overseas Trips - Ethnic, MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 19.5.92 1613 Municipal and Community Affairs 1584 Overseas Trips - School Education MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 2.6.92 1651 1585 Overseas Trips - Sport MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 26.5.92 1645 and Recreation 1587 Overseas Trips - Police MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 19.5.92 1613 and Emergency Services 1588 Overseas Trips - Food and MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 28.4.92 1554 Agriculture 1590 Overseas Trips - Planning MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 14.4.92 566 and Housing 1592 Australia Day Committee MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 19.5.92 1614 1593 China Advisory Committee - Staf( MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 28.4.92 1555 1594 China Advisory Committee - MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 28.4.92 1555 Members 1595 Australia Day Committee MrConnard Mr White (M &:ID) 19.5.92 1615 1596 Australia Day Committee MrConnard Mr White (M &: ID) 19.5.92 1615 1598 Appointments - Ethnic MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 19.5.92 1617 Affairs Commission 1599 Appointments - Liquor MrSmith Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 19.5.92 1619 Licensing Commission 1600 Collingwood Football Club - MrSmith Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 19.5.92 1619 Liquor Licensing Commission 1602 National, State and Marine Parks Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (C &: E) 19.5.92 1619 1603 Chemical Storage Facilities MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 28.5.92 1648 1605 Lake Connewarre - Siltation MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 26.5.92 1646 1605 Lake Connewarre - Siltation MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 2.6.92 1652 1606 Algae Contamination of MrSkeggs Mr Pullen (C &: E) 19.5.92 1621 Geelong Rivers 1607 Macquarie Bank Consultancy- MrHallam Mr White (M &: ID) 10.6.92 1661 Treasury 1608 Victorian Medical Board Mr Best Mrs Lyster (Health) 19.5.92 1621 Working Party Review 1614 "Conserve" - Conservation MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 21.5.92 1632 and Environment 1615 "Conserve" - Conservation MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 21.5.92 1633 and Environment 1616 "Conserve" - Conservation MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 21.5.92 1633 and Environment 1617 Women's Conservation and MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 26.5.92 1646 Environment Network 1617 Women's Conservation and MrConnard Mr Pullen (C &: E) 2.6.92 1652 Environment Ntework 1618 Four-Wheel Drive Motor Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (C &: E) 3.6.92 1653 Registration Levy 1619 ''Life Force" - Conservation Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (C &: E) 3.6.92 1653 and Environment LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (39)

Qn Date Page No. Subject PIUItter Asked by Answered by Answered No.

1621 Luscombe and/or Australian Mr Birrell Mr White (M ck ID) 10.6.92 1662 Community Research Consultancy - Premier and Cabinet

INDEX

Spring (August) 1992 - Vol. 408

LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL

(Bills are listed alphabetically under "Bills" and questions on notice are listed in numerical sequence at end of index)

A Bills- Borrowing and Investment Powers (MMBW) Bill­

11 Achieving Better Health and Health Services: Received from Assembly and first reading, 25. Strategic Directions 1992-94" - Missing pages, Intellectually Disabled Persons' Services (Trust Money) q 29. Bill- Received from Assembly and first reading, 25. Administrative Arrangements - Orders Nos 109 to Liquor Control (Clubs) Bill - Received from Assembly 111,39. and first reading. 78; second reading, 78; Advertising - National parks Community Awareness Committee, 79; remaining stages, 80. publicity campaign, 3. Liquor Control (Further Amendment) Bill (No. 2) - Introduction and first reading, 39. B Magistrates' Court (Filing) Bill - Introduction and first reading, 38. National Parks (Further Miscellaneous Amendments) Baxter, Hon. W. R. (North Eastern) Bill - Received from Assembly and first reading, Deaths - Hon. C. P. Stoneham, OBE, 2. 78. Government Appointments, Select Committee on - Parliamentary Salaries and Superannuation Third interim report: alleged breach of privilege, (Amendment) Bill- Received from Assembly and 27. first reading, 25; second reading and remaining Government, The - National parks Community stages, 77. Awareness publicity campaign, 9. Health Department Victoria - Achieving Better Health and HeJllth Services: Strategic Directions 1992-84, Birrell, Hon. M. A. (East Yarra) q29. Deaths - Hon. C. P. Stoneham, OBE, 1. Members - Retiring. 81. Electoral- National parks Community Awareness publicity campaign, 3. Environment Protection Authority - Report on Best, Hon. R. A. (North Western) Yarra River pollution, q 37. Brenan, Mr Justin - Report on appointment, 68. Government Appointments, Select Committee on - Government Appointments, Select Committee on - Third interim report: alleged breach of privilege, Third interim report on Department of School 28. Education, 68. Government, The - National Parks Community Awareness publicity campaign, 3. (2) INDEX

Liquor Control (Clubs) Bill, 79. D Members - Retiring, SO. Points of Order - Quoted documents, 12. Reflecting Davidson, Hon. B. E. (Chelsea) on decision of House, 13. Remarks: relevancy, 14; Brenan, Mr Justin - Report on appointment, 72. offensive, 74, 76. Scope of question, 34, 35. Government Appointments, Select Committee on - Privileges Committee - Membership, 28. Third interim report on Department of School Education, 72. Brenan, Mr Justin - Report on appointment, 39, 56. Deaths - Hon. C. P. Stoneham, OBE, 1. Business of the House - Postponement, 55. c E Economic and Budget Review Committee - Reports: Chamberlain, Hon. B. A. (Western) Public accounts committees, 39; health service Brenan, Mr Justin - Report on appointment, 56. agreements, 40. Business of the House - Sittings, 60. Electoral- National parks Community Awareness Government Appointments, Select Committee on - publicity campaign, 3. Third interim report: alleged breach of privilege, 25; Department of School Education, 41, 56. Environment Protection Authority - Report on Varra Privileges Committee - Membership, 28. River pollution, q 37.

Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs, Ministry Connard, Hon. G. P. (Higinbotham) of - Contract interpreters, q 33. Local Enterprise Development Initiative scheme, q 37. Social Development Committee - Report on mental disturbance and community safety, 40. Enns, Hon. D. M. (North Eastern) Conservation and Environment - Ecologically Business of the House - Postponement, 55. sustainable development principles, q 32. Government, The - National parks Community Awareness publicity campaign, 19. Consumer Affairs - Uniform credit legislation, q 36. Legal and Constitutional Committee -Subordinate Legislation Subcommittee, 55. Cox, Hon. G. H. (Nunawading) F Points of Order - Debating of question, 37. Finance - Sale of State Insurance Office, q 31. Coxsedge, Hon. Joan, (Melbourne West) Members - Retiring, 81. G

Government, The - National parks Community Craige, Hon. G. R. (Central Highlands) Awareness publicity campaign, 3. Brenan, Mr Justin - Report on appointment, 75. Government Appointments, Select Committee on - Government Appointments, Select Committee on - Third interim report: alleged breach of privilege, 25; Third interim report on Department of School Department of School Education, 41, 56. Education, 75. Hospitals - Proposed Northern, q 35. Government Departments and Instrumentalltles - Appointment of Mr Justin Brenan, 39, 56. Personal Explanations - Ms Ann Morrow, 86. Petitions - Pedestrian-operated signals, Epping, 38. Guest, Hon J. V. C. (Monash) Crawford, Hon. G. R. Gika Jika) Economic and Budget Review Committee - Report on Public Accounts Committees, 39. Deaths - Hon. C. P. Stoneham, OBE, 2. Liquor Control (Clubs) Bill, 79.

Credit - Uniform legislation, q 36. H

Hall, Hon. P. R. (Gippsland) Municipalities - Recreation officers salary subsidy scheme, q 32. LEGISLA TIVE COUNCIL (3)

Points of Order - Reflection on decision of House, 13. Debating of question, 37. Hallam, Hon. R. M. (Western) State Insurance Office sale, q 31. Kokocinski, Hon. Licia (Melbourne West) Health - Budget, q 30. Health - Members - Retiring, 83. Department Victoria - Achieving Better Health and Points of order - Offensive remarks, 76. Health Services: Strategic Directions 1992-94, q 29. Budget, q 30. L General- Priority Asthma program, q 31. Human embryos, 38. Lawson, Hon Robert (Higinbotham) Mental Health - Report on mental disturbance and community safety, 40. Members - Retiring, 84. Petitions - Human embryos, 38.

Henshaw, Hon. D. E. (Geelong) Government, The - National parks Community Legal and Constitutional Committee - Subordinate Awareness publicity campaign, 17. legislation subcommittee, SS. Members - Conflict of interest guidelines, q 33. Local Enterprise Development Initiative Scheme, q 37.

Hogg, Hon. C. (Melbourne North) (Minister for J. Long, Hon. R. J. (Gippsland) EthniC, Municipal and Community Affairs) Points of Order - Scope of question, 34. Business of the House - Sittings, 60. Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs, Ministry of - Contract interpreters, q 33. Local ~nterprise Lyster, Hon. M. A. (Chelsea) (Minister for Health) Development Initiative scheme, q 37. Intellectually Disabled Persons' Services (Trust Health- Money) Bill, 25. Department Victoria - Achieving Better Health and Municipalities - Recreation officers salary subsidy Health Services: Strategic Directions 1992-94, q 29. scheme, q 32. Budget, q 30. General - Priority Asthma program, q 31. Hospitals - Proposed Northern, q 29, q 35. Caulfield Hospitals - Proposed Northern, q 28, q 35. Caulfield General Medical Centre: WorkCare claims, q 31- General Medical Centre: WorkCare claims, q 31- Barwon rehabilitation services, q 35. Barwon rehabilitation services, q 35. Report on Magistrates' Court (Filing) Bill, 38. health service agreements, 40. State Insurance Office -Sale, q 31.

Hunt, Hon. A. J. (South Eastern) (See "President, The M (Hon. A. J. Hunt)'') Macey, Hon. Reg (Monash) Members - Retiring, 85.

Ives, Hon. R. S. (Eumemmerring) Mackenzie, Hon. R. A. (Geelong) Brenan, Mr Justin - Report on appointment, 62. Government Appointments, Select Committee on - Government, The - National parks Community Third interim report on Department of School Awareness publicity campaign, 21. Education, 62. Hospitals - Barwon rehabilitation services, q 35. Liquor Control (Clubs) Bill, 78. K Members - Retiring, 81.

Kennedy, Hon. C. J. (Waverley) McLean, Hon. Jean (Boronia) Credit - Unifonn legislation, q 36. Local Enterprise Development Initiative Scheme, Parliament House - Working conditions, 86. q37.

Knowles, Hon. R. I. (Ballarat) Medical Services - Barwon rehabilitation services, Hospitals - Caulfield General Medical Centre: q35. WorkCare claims, q 31. (4) INDEX

Members - Conflict of interest guidelines, q 33. Government, The - National parks Community Retiring, BO. Awareness publicity campaign, 11. National Parks (Further Miscellaneous Amendments) Morrow, Ann - Statement on, 86. Bill,78.

Motions for Adjournment of House to En~ble Honour~ble Members to Discuss Public Q Questions - National parks Community Awareness publicity campaign, 3. Questions on Notice - Answers, 38.

Municip~lities - Recreation officers salary subsidy scheme, q 32. R

p Ro~d8 Corpor~tion - Pedestrian-operated traffic signals, Epping, 38. Parks - National: Community Awareness publicity campaign, 3. s

Parli~ent, The - Alleged breach of privilege, 25. School Education - Report of Select Committee on Government Appointments, 41, 56. P~rli~ent House - Working conditions, 86. Select Committee on Government Appointments (See Personal Expl~ations - By Mr Craige, 86. "Government Appointments, Select Committee on'') Petitions - Human embryos, 38. Pedestrian-operated signals, Epping, 38. Sgro, Hon G. A. (Melbourne North) Members - Retiring, 83. President, The (Hon. A. J. Hunt) Rulings and Statements - Social Development Committee - Report on mental Deaths - Hon. C. P. Stoneham, OBE, 2. disturbance and community safety, 40. Debate -Interjections, 12,77. Minister not to refer to members in other place, 13. Scope, 13, 16. State Insurance Office - Sale, q 31. Reflecting on decision of House. 13. Remarks: relevancy 14,74; offensive, 74, 75, 76. Reflection on Stoneham, late C. P., OBE, 1. deliberations of Privileges Committee, 27. Government Appointments, Select Committee on - Third interim report: alleged breach of privilege, Storey, Hon. H~ddon (East Yarra) 25. Points of Order - Scope of question, 33, 34. Members - Retiring, 86. Parliament, The - Alleged breach of privilege, 25. Questions without Notice - Scope, 33. Debating, 37. Subordinate legislation Subcommittee (See "Legal and Constitutional Committee'')

Priority Asthm~ Prognm, q 31. T Priority Victoria - Local Enterprise Development Teh~, Hon. M. T. (Central Highlands) Initiative scheme, q 37. Hospitals - Proposed Northern, q 28. Privileges Committee - Membership, 28. Reference on third interim report of Select Committee on Government Appointments, 28. Theophanous, Hon. T. C. (Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Small Business, and Minister Public Accounts Committees - Report, 39. Assisting the Minister for Manufacturing and Industry Development on Corporatisation)

Pullen, Hon. B. T. (Melbourne) (Minister for Credit - Unifonn legislation, q 36. Conservation and Environment) Liquor Control (Clubs) Bill, 78. Liquor Control (Further Amendment) Bill (No. 2),39. Conservation and Environment - Ecologically sustainable development principles, q 32. Points of order - Debating of question, 37. Environment Protection Authority - Report on Victorian Accident Rehabilitation Council - Yarra River pollution, q 37. WorkCare reports, 39. Government Appointments, Select Committee on - Third interim report: alleged breach of privilege, 1S. LEGISLA TIVE COUNCIL (5) v

Varty, Hon. Rosemary (Nunawading) Economic and Budget Review Committee - Report on health service agreements, 40. Government, The - National parks Community Awareness publicity campaign, 16. Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs, Ministry of - Contract interpreters, q 33. Points of order - Relevancy of remarks, 16.

Victorian Accident Rehabilitation Council - WorkCare reports, 39. w

White, Hon. D. R. (Doutta Galla) (Minister for Manufacturing and Industry Development, and Minister responsible for Ports) Administrative Arrangements - Orders Nos 109 to 111,39. Borrowing and Investment Powers (MMBW) Bill, 25. Brenan, Mr Justin - Report on appointment, 39. Budget - Papers, 39. Deaths - Hon. C. P. Stoneham, OBE, 1. Government Appointments, Select Committee on- Third interim report: alleged breach of privilege, 27. Members - Conflict of interest guidelines, q 33. Retiring, BO. Parliamentary Salaries and Superannuation (Amendment) Bill, 25, 77. Points of Order - Reflection on deliberations of Privileges Committee, 26. Scope of question, 33, 34. Unparliamentary remarks, 86. Questions on Notice - Answers, 38.

WorkCare - Caulfield General Medical Centre claims, q 31. Reports, 39.

Wright, Hon. K. I. M. (North Western) Members - Retiring, 85.

y

Yarra River - Environment Protection Authority report, q 37. (6) INDEX QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

Listed in numerical order of questions on notice answered during period covered by this index.

Ministerial portfolios and abbreviations

Conservation and Environment C&E

Consumer Affairs Cons Affs

Education and Training E&T Ethnic, Municipal and Community Affairs EM&CA

Gaming Gaming Health Health Major Projects Maj Proj Manufacturing and Industry Development M&ID

Ports Ports Small Business SB

Qn Date Page No. Subject matter Asked by Answered by Answered No.

949 Inactive List - Labour MrAshman Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 89 1244 VICIMAGE - Premier and Cabinet MrStorey Mr White (M « ID) 12.8.92 89 1370 Joumalists - Transport MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 92 1431 Library Funding MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 93 1451 Employment of Former Member MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 93 1455 Employment of Former Member MrConnard Mr Theophanous (SB) 12.8.92 93 1458 Publications - Small Business MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (SB) 12.8.92 93 1470 Publications - Corrections MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 94 1473 Publications - Gaming MrSkeggs Mr White (M & ID) 12.8.92 95 1476 Publications - School Education MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 96 1482 Publications - Major Projects MrSkeggs Mr White (M & ID) 12.8.92 97 1487 Salaries - Small Business MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (SB) 12.8.92 97 1489 Salaries - Consumer Affairs MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 98 1499 Salaries - Corrections MrSkeggs Mrs Lyster (Health) 12.8.92 99 1500 Salaries - Police and MrSkeggs Mrs Lyster (Health) 12.8.92 100 Emergency Services 1501 Salaries - Treasury MrSkeggs Mr White (M & ID) 12.8.92 101 1505 Salaries -School Education MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM « CA) 12.8.92 102 1512 Salaries - Arts MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 103 1516 Geelong Staff - Small Business MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (SB) 12.8.92 103 1525 Geelong Staff - Finance MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 103 1528 Geelong Slaff - Corrections MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 104 1534 Geelong Staff - School Education MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 104 1541 Geelong Staff - Arts MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 105 1545 Trade Union Grants - Small Business MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (SB) 12.8.92 105 1554 Trade Union Grants - Finance MrSkeggs Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 105 1557 Trade Union Grants - Corrections MrSkeggs Mrs Lyster (Health) 12.8.92 105 1570 Trade Union Grants - Arts MrSkeggs Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 106 1579 Overseas Trips - Arts MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 106 1609 Sewerage Facilities Mr Birrell Mr Pullen (C & E) 12.8.92 106 1611 Standard Gauge Rail Line MrLawson Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 107 LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL (7)

Qn Date Page No. Subjtct mJJlter Asked by Answered by Answered No.

1612 Standard Gauge Rail Line MrLawson Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 107 1613 "Conserve" - Conservation Mr Lawson Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 107 and Environment NOTE: Should be ""Standard Gauge Rail Line" 1622 Four-Wheel Motor Vehicle Mr Birrell Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 108 Registration Levy 1629 Asset Register - Ethnic, MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 108 Municipal and Community Affairs 1634 Asset Register - Gaming MrConnard Mr White (M & ID) 12.8.92 109 1637 Asset Register - Tourism MrConnard Mr White (M& ID) 12.8.92 109 1639 Asset Register - Aboriginal Affairs MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 109 1641 Asset Register -Community Services MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 110 1642 Asset Register - School Education MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 110 1643 Asset Register - Employment, MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 12.8.92 111 Post-Secondary Education and Training 1644 Asset Register - Food and Agriculture Mr Connard Mr PuUen (C & E) 12.8.92 112 1646 Asset Register - Water Resources MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 12.8.92 112 1648 Asset Register - Corrections MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 12.8.92 113 1652 Asset Register - Sport and Recreation MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons A'ffs) 12.8.92 114 1654 Asset Register - Child-Care MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 116 1656 Motor Vehicle Accidents- MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 116 Higinbotham Province 1657 Boating Licence Fees MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 117 1658 Boating Facilities MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 117 1659 Traffic Black Spots MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 118 1667 Central Area Transport Strategy MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 118 1668 Sandringham Rail Service MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Alls) 12.8.92 119 1669 Frankston Rail Service MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 120 1670 Motor Vehicle Accident Fatalities MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 121 1671 Racecourse Licences Board MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Alls) 12.8.92 121 1672 Boating Facilities Fund MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 122 1673 State Water Laboratory MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 12.8.92 124 1677 Ministerial Advisers - Child-care MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 124 1680 Ministerial Advisers -Gaming MrConnard Mr White (M & ID) 12.8.92 125 1683 Ministerial Advisers - Corrections MrConnard Mrs Lyster (Health) 12.8.92 125 1685 Ministerial Advisers - Water MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 12.8.92 125 Resources 1687 Ministerial Advisers - Food and MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 12.8.92 126 Agriculture 1688 Ministerial Advisers - Employment, MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 12.8.92 126 Post-Secondary Education and Training 1689 Ministerial Advisers - School MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 126 Education 1690 Ministerial Advisers - Community MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 127 Services 1693 Ministerial Advisers - Treasury MrConnard Mr White (M & ID) 12.8.92 128 1694 Ministerial Advisers - Tourism MrConnard Mr White (M & ID) 12.8.92 128 1697 Ministerial Advisers - Manufacturing MrConnard Mr White (M & ID) 12.8.92 129 and Industry Development 1698 Ministerial Advisers - Ports MrConnard Mr White (M & ID) 12.8.92 129 1699 Ministerial Advisers - Ethnic, MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 129 Municipal and Community Affairs 1700 Ministerial Advisers - Conservation MrConnard Mr Pullen (C & E) 12.8.92 130 and Environment 1709 Brambuk Aboriginal Centre MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM & CA) 12.8.92 130 1718 Land Classification Review Committee MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 131 (8) INDEX

Qn. Date Page No. Subject matter Asked by Answered by Answered No.

1723 HACC Funding in Higinbotham MrConnard Mrs Hogg (EM &: CA) 12.8.92 131 Province 1724 State Bicycle Committee MrConnard Mr Theophanous (Cons Affs) 12.8.92 133 1725 Accounting - T AFE Colleges Mr Mackenzie Mr Pullen (C &: E) 12.8.92 134 1726 Accounting - T AFE Colleges Mr Mackenzie Mr Pullen (C &: E) 12.8.92 135 1727 Accounting - T AFE Colleges Mr Mackenzie Mr Pullen (C &: E) 12.8.92 135