PARLIAMENT OF VICTORIA

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD)

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

FIFTY-SEVENTH PARLIAMENT

FIRST SESSION

Tuesday, 11 June 2013 (Extract from book 8)

Internet: www.parliament.vic.gov.au/downloadhansard

By authority of the Victorian Government Printer

The Governor The Honourable ALEX CHERNOV, AC, QC The Lieutenant-Governor The Honourable Justice MARILYN WARREN, AC The ministry (from 22 April 2013)

Premier, Minister for Regional Cities and Minister for Racing ...... The Hon. D. V. Napthine, MP

Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, and Minister for Regional and Rural Development ...... The Hon. P. J. Ryan, MP

Treasurer ...... The Hon. M. A. O’Brien, MP

Minister for Innovation, Services and Small Business, Minister for Tourism and Major Events, and Minister for Employment and Trade .. The Hon. Louise Asher, MP

Attorney-General, Minister for Finance and Minister for Industrial Relations ...... The Hon. R. W. Clark, MP

Minister for Health and Minister for Ageing ...... The Hon. D. M. Davis, MLC

Minister for Sport and Recreation, and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs .... The Hon. H. F. Delahunty, MP

Minister for Education ...... The Hon. M. F. Dixon, MP

Minister for Planning ...... The Hon. M. J. Guy, MLC

Minister for Higher Education and Skills, and Minister responsible for the Teaching Profession ...... The Hon. P. R. Hall, MLC

Minister for Ports, Minister for Major Projects and Minister for Manufacturing ...... The Hon. D. J. Hodgett, MP

Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship, and Minister for Energy and Resources ...... The Hon. N. Kotsiras, MP

Minister for Housing, and Minister for Children and Early Childhood Development ...... The Hon. W. A. Lovell, MLC

Minister for Public Transport and Minister for Roads ...... The Hon. T. W. Mulder, MP

Minister for Liquor nd Gaming Regulation, Minister for Corrections and Minister for Crime Prevention ...... The Hon. E. J. O’Donohue, MLC

Minister for Local Government and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs ...... The Hon. E. J. Powell, MP

Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Technology and Minister responsible for the Aviation Industry ...... The Hon. G. K. Rich-Phillips, MLC

Minister for Environment and Climate Change, and Minister for Youth Affairs ...... The Hon. R. Smith, MP

Minister for the Arts, Minister for Women’s Affairs and Minister for Consumer Affairs ...... The Hon. H. Victoria, MP

Minister for Agriculture and Food Security, and Minister for Water ...... The Hon. P. L. Walsh, MP

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, and Minister for Bushfire Response ...... The Hon. K. A. Wells, MP

Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Disability Services and Reform ...... The Hon. M. L. N. Wooldridge, MP

Cabinet Secretary ...... Mr N. Wakeling, MP

Legislative Assembly committees

Privileges Committee — Ms Barker, Mr Clark, Ms Green, Mr Hodgett, Mr Morris, Mr Nardella, Mr O’Brien, Mr Pandazopoulos and Mr Walsh. Standing Orders Committee — The Speaker, Ms Allan, Ms Asher, Ms Barker, Mr Brooks, Mrs Fyffe, Mr Hodgett and Mrs Powell.

Joint committees

Accountability and Oversight Committee — (Assembly): Ms Kanis, Ms Richardson and Mr Wakeling. (Council): Mr O’Brien and Mr P. Davis. Dispute Resolution Committee — (Assembly): Ms Allan, Ms Asher, Mr Clark, Ms Hennessy, Mr Merlino, Mr O’Brien and Mr Walsh. (Council): Mr D. Davis, Mr Hall, Mr Lenders, Ms Lovell and Ms Pennicuik. Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee — (Assembly): Mr Battin and Mr McCurdy. (Council): Mr Leane, Mr Ramsay and Mr Scheffer. Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee — (Assembly): Mr Burgess, Mr Carroll, Mr Foley, Mrs Fyffe and Mr Shaw. (Council): Mrs Peulich. Education and Training Committee — (Assembly): Mr Crisp, Ms Miller and Mr Southwick. (Council): Mr Elasmar and Ms Tierney. Electoral Matters Committee — (Assembly): Ms Ryall. (Council): Mr Finn, Mrs Peulich, Mr Somyurek and Mr Tarlamis. Environment and Natural Resources Committee — (Assembly): Mr Bull, Ms Duncan, Mr Pandazopoulos and Ms Wreford. (Council): Mr Koch. Family and Community Development Committee — (Assembly): Ms Halfpenny, Mr McGuire and Mr Wakeling. (Council): Mrs Coote, Ms Crozier and Mr O’Brien. House Committee — (Assembly): The Speaker (ex officio), Ms Beattie, Mr Burgess, Ms Campbell, Mrs Fyffe, Ms Graley and Mr Weller. (Council): The President (ex officio), Mr Drum, Mr Eideh, Mr Finn, Ms Hartland, and Mr P. Davis. Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission Committee — (Assembly): Ms Hennessy, Mr Newton-Brown and Mr Weller. (Council): Mr Koch and Mr Viney. Law Reform Committee — (Assembly): Mr Carbines, Ms Garrett, Mr Newton-Brown and Mr Northe. (Council): Mrs Petrovich. Outer Suburban/Interface Services and Development Committee — (Assembly): Ms Graley, Ms Hutchins and Ms McLeish. (Council): Mrs Kronberg and Mr Ondarchie. Public Accounts and Estimates Committee — (Assembly): Mr Angus, Ms Hennessey, Mr Morris, Mr Pakula and Mr Scott. (Council): Mr O’Brien and Mr Ondarchie. Road Safety Committee — (Assembly): Mr Languiller, Mr Perera, Mr Tilley and Mr Thompson. (Council): Mr Elsbury. Rural and Regional Committee — (Assembly): Mr Howard, Mr Katos, Mr Trezise and Mr Weller. (Council): Mr Drum. Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee — (Assembly): Mr Brooks, Ms Campbell, Mr Gidley, Mr Nardella, Dr Sykes and Mr Watt. (Council): Mr Dalla-Riva.

Heads of parliamentary departments

Assembly — Clerk of the Parliaments and Clerk of the Legislative Assembly: Mr R. W. Purdey Council — Clerk of the Legislative Council: Mr W. R. Tunnecliffe Parliamentary Services — Secretary: Mr P. Lochert

MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY FIFTY-SEVENTH PARLIAMENT — FIRST SESSION Speaker: The Hon. K. M. SMITH Deputy Speaker: Mrs C. A. FYFFE Acting Speakers: Ms Beattie, Mr Blackwood, Mr Burgess, Ms Campbell, Mr Eren, Mr Languiller, Mr Morris, Mr Nardella, Mr Northe, Mr Pandazopoulos, Dr Sykes, Mr Thompson, Mr Tilley and Mr Weller. Leader of the Parliamentary Liberal Party and Premier: The Hon. D. V. NAPTHINE (from 6 March 2013) The Hon. E. N. BAILLIEU (to 6 March 2013) Deputy Leader of the Parliamentary Liberal Party: The Hon. LOUISE ASHER Leader of The Nationals and Deputy Premier: The Hon. P. J. RYAN Deputy Leader of The Nationals: The Hon. P. L. WALSH Leader of the Parliamentary Labor Party and Leader of the Opposition: The Hon. D. M. ANDREWS Deputy Leader of the Parliamentary Labor Party and Deputy Leader of the Opposition: The Hon. J. A. MERLINO

Member District Party Member District Party Allan, Ms Jacinta Marie Bendigo East ALP Languiller, Mr Telmo Ramon Derrimut ALP Andrews, Mr Daniel Michael Mulgrave ALP Lim, Mr Muy Hong Clayton ALP Angus, Mr Neil Andrew Warwick Forest Hill LP McCurdy, Mr Timothy Logan Murray Valley Nats Asher, Ms Louise Brighton LP McGuire, Mr Frank 6 Broadmeadows ALP Baillieu, Mr Edward Norman Hawthorn LP McIntosh, Mr Andrew John Kew LP Barker, Ms Ann Patricia Oakleigh ALP McLeish, Ms Lucinda Gaye Seymour LP Battin, Mr Bradley William Gembrook LP Madden, Mr Justin Mark Essendon ALP Bauer, Mrs Donna Jane Carrum LP Merlino, Mr James Anthony Monbulk ALP Beattie, Ms Elizabeth Jean Yuroke ALP Miller, Ms Elizabeth Eileen Bentleigh LP Blackwood, Mr Gary John Narracan LP Morris, Mr David Charles Mornington LP Brooks, Mr Colin William Bundoora ALP Mulder, Mr Terence Wynn Polwarth LP Brumby, Mr John Mansfield 1 Broadmeadows ALP Napthine, Dr Denis Vincent South-West Coast LP Bull, Mr Timothy Owen Gippsland East Nats Nardella, Mr Donato Antonio Melton ALP Burgess, Mr Neale Ronald Hastings LP Neville, Ms Lisa Mary Bellarine ALP Campbell, Ms Christine Mary Pascoe Vale ALP Newton-Brown, Mr Clement Arundel Prahran LP Carbines, Mr Anthony Richard Ivanhoe ALP Noonan, Mr Wade Mathew Williamstown ALP Carroll, Mr Benjamin Alan 2 Niddrie ALP Northe, Mr Russell John Morwell Nats Clark, Mr Robert William Box Hill LP O’Brien, Mr Michael Anthony Malvern LP Crisp, Mr Peter Laurence Mildura Nats Pakula, Mr Martin Philip 7 Lyndhurst ALP D’Ambrosio, Ms Liliana Mill Park ALP Pallas, Mr Timothy Hugh Tarneit ALP Delahunty, Mr Hugh Francis Lowan Nats Pandazopoulos, Mr John Dandenong ALP Dixon, Mr Martin Francis Nepean LP Perera, Mr Jude Cranbourne ALP Donnellan, Mr Luke Anthony Narre Warren North ALP Pike, Ms Bronwyn Jane 8 Melbourne ALP Duncan, Ms Joanne Therese Macedon ALP Powell, Mrs Elizabeth Jeanette Shepparton Nats Edwards, Ms Janice Maree Bendigo West ALP Richardson, Ms Fiona Catherine Alison Northcote ALP Eren, Mr John Hamdi Lara ALP Ryall, Ms Deanne Sharon Mitcham LP Foley, Mr Martin Peter Albert Park ALP Ryan, Mr Peter Julian Gippsland South Nats Fyffe, Mrs Christine Ann Evelyn LP Scott, Mr Robin David Preston ALP Garrett, Ms Jane Furneaux Brunswick ALP Shaw, Mr Geoffrey Page 9 Frankston Ind Gidley, Mr Michael Xavier Charles Mount Waverley LP Smith, Mr Kenneth Maurice Bass LP Graley, Ms Judith Ann Narre Warren South ALP Smith, Mr Ryan Warrandyte LP Green, Ms Danielle Louise Yan Yean ALP Southwick, Mr David James Caulfield LP Halfpenny, Ms Bronwyn Thomastown ALP Sykes, Dr William Everett Benalla Nats Helper, Mr Jochen Ripon ALP Thompson, Mr Murray Hamilton Ross Sandringham LP Hennessy, Ms Jill Altona ALP Thomson, Ms Marsha Rose Footscray ALP Herbert, Mr Steven Ralph Eltham ALP Tilley, Mr William John Benambra LP Hodgett, Mr David John Kilsyth LP Trezise, Mr Ian Douglas Geelong ALP Holding, Mr Timothy James 3 Lyndhurst ALP Victoria, Ms Heidi Bayswater LP Howard, Mr Geoffrey Kemp Ballarat East ALP Wakeling, Mr Nicholas Ferntree Gully LP Hulls, Mr Rob Justin 4 Niddrie ALP Walsh, Mr Peter Lindsay Swan Hill Nats Hutchins, Ms Natalie Maree Sykes Keilor ALP Watt, Mr Graham Travis Burwood LP Kairouz, Ms Marlene Kororoit ALP Weller, Mr Paul Rodney Nats Kanis, Ms Jennifer 5 Melbourne ALP Wells, Mr Kimberley Arthur Scoresby LP Katos, Mr Andrew South Barwon LP Wooldridge, Ms Mary Louise Newling Doncaster LP Knight, Ms Sharon Patricia Ballarat West ALP Wreford, Ms Lorraine Joan Mordialloc LP Kotsiras, Mr Nicholas Bulleen LP Wynne, Mr Richard William Richmond ALP Languiller, Mr Telmo Ramon Derrimut ALP

1 Resigned 21 December 2010 6 Elected 19 February 2011 2 Elected 24 March 2012 7 Elected 27 April 2013 3 Resigned 18 February 2013 8 Resigned 7 May 2012 4 Resigned 27 January 2012 9 LP until 6 March 2013 5 Elected 21 July 2012

CONTENTS

TUESDAY, 11 JUNE 2013 Ambulance Victoria: performance ...... 1986 St Paul’s East Bentleigh Football Club: DISTINGUISHED VISITORS ...... 1967 fundraiser ...... 1986 QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE St Peters Junior Football Club: cybersafety Ambulance Victoria: radio communications ...... 1967 initiative ...... 1986 National disability insurance scheme: Bentleigh Secondary College: debutante ball ...... 1986 headquarters ...... 1967 James Elliott...... 1987 Ambulance services: Gippsland ...... 1968 Australian Red Cross: Caulfield blood bank ...... 1987 Employment: Barwon region ...... 1970 Disability services: supported accommodation Ambulance services: Geelong ...... 1971 fees ...... 1987 Economy: government achievements ...... 1972 Hattah Lakes: environmental flows project ...... 1987 Frankston Hospital: funding ...... 1973 Samoan Independence Day ...... 1987 Schools: federal funding ...... 1974, 1975 Bill Sauer ...... 1987 Ambulance services: Bendigo region ...... 1975 Country Fire Authority: Dandenong complex ...... 1988 Local government: federal referendum ...... 1976 NewHope Community Care: volunteers ...... 1988 SUSPENSION OF MEMBERS Blackburn Primary School: funding ...... 1988 Member for Monbulk ...... 1975 Box Hill to Ringwood: shared pathway ...... 1988 Member for Kororoit ...... 1975 Rotary Club of Keilor East: Pride of Workmanship Awards ...... 1988 ACTING OMBUDSMAN ...... 1977 Country Fire Authority: Macclesfield brigade ...... 1989 ROAD SAFETY AND SENTENCING ACTS Men’s sheds: Berwick ...... 1989 AMENDMENT BILL 2013 Rotary Club of Eltham: 40th anniversary ...... 1989 Introduction and first reading...... 1977 Dartmouth Cup Fishing Classic ...... 1990 ROAD LEGISLATION AMENDMENT (USE AND King Valley: art show ...... 1990 DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION AND OTHER MATTERS) BILL 2013 Victorian Truck Drivers Memorial ...... 1990 Mount Buller: snow season opening ...... 1990 Introduction and first reading...... 1978 Mount Hotham and Dinner Plain: snow season MAJOR TRANSPORT PROJECTS FACILITATION opening ...... 1990 AMENDMENT (EAST WEST LINK AND OTHER PROJECTS) BILL 2013 Home and community care: eastern European Introduction and first reading...... 1978 community ...... 1990 Rotary Club of Chelsea: art show ...... 1990 BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE Kananook Primary School: member visit ...... 1990 Notices of motion: removal ...... 1978 Mordialloc Chelsea VIEW Club ...... 1991 Program ...... 1980 Bauer Kokoda Charity Challenge ...... 1991 PETITIONS Rail: Ballarat services ...... 1991 Dyslexia: student learning support ...... 1978 Ford Australia: job losses ...... 1991 SCRUTINY OF ACTS AND REGULATIONS APPROPRIATION (PARLIAMENT 2013–2014) BILL COMMITTEE 2013 Alert Digest No. 8 ...... 1979 Second reading ...... 1991 DOCUMENTS ...... 1979 STATE TAX LAWS AMENDMENT (BUDGET AND ROYAL ASSENT ...... 1979 OTHER MEASURES) BILL 2013 MEMBERS STATEMENTS Second reading ...... 2002 Tourism: business events ...... 1983 APPROPRIATION (2013–2014) BILL 2013 Chandler Park Primary School: rebuilding ...... 1984 Second reading ...... 2014 Protective services officers: Burnley and Narre ADJOURNMENT Warren railway stations ...... 1984 Hampton Park Secondary College: stadium Lions Club of Essendon: 60th anniversary ...... 1984 maintenance ...... 2033 Essendon Croquet Club: centenary ...... 1984 Tourism: Surf Coast region ...... 2033 Maribyrnong River: renaming centenary ...... 1984 Planning: broiler farms ...... 2034 Essendon Rowing Club: presentation night ...... 1985 Men’s sheds: Chelsea...... 2034 Aberfeldie Football Club: Anzac Day match ...... 1985 Rail: Macleod station car park ...... 2035 Gippsland East electorate: infrastructure Fruit growers: Goulburn Valley ...... 2036 funding ...... 1985 Creswick Bowling Club: flood relief funding ...... 2036 Maffra Cheese Company: expansion ...... 1985 Mount Hotham: medical services...... 2037 Gippsland Plains rail trail: upgrade ...... 1985 Cranbourne Secondary College: funding ...... 2037 Metung Food and Wine Festival ...... 1985 Small business: East Bentleigh ...... 2038 Schools: Kinglake bushfire support ...... 1985 Responses ...... 2038 Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery: Archibald Prize exhibition ...... 1986 Peninsula Link: shared pathway ...... 1986

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Tuesday, 11 June 2013 ASSEMBLY 1967

Tuesday, 11 June 2013 paramedics are delivering the best cardiac arrest survival rates anywhere in Australia, and we need to The SPEAKER (Hon. Ken Smith) took the chair at congratulate them on and thank them for that. What we 2.04 p.m. and read the prayer. are saying is that our paramedics are doing a professional job. They are working extremely hard, and

99BDISTINGUISHED VISITORS they are delivering improved outcomes for patients across Victoria. The SPEAKER — Order! Before calling for questions, I would like to acknowledge in the gallery To assist Ambulance Victoria and our ambulance today Mary Burce Warlick, who is the Consul General officers to do their jobs we are providing a record level for the United States of America. We welcome you to of resourcing — $662 million in this budget, which is the Parliament of Victoria and particularly to the 17.3 per cent more than when we came to office. We Legislative Assembly. are providing more ambulance officers. Indeed we promised 340 additional ambulance officers in the QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE lead-up to the 2010 election and already 323 have been delivered. So we are delivering more officers, we are

25BAmbulance Victoria: radio communications delivering more ambulance vehicles, we are opening more ambulance stations, we are putting more funding Mr ANDREWS (Leader of the Opposition) — My into ambulances and we are delivering better outcomes question is to the Premier. I refer the Premier to the in terms of survival rates, as evidenced through Ambulance Victoria observation report for Mildura of Victoria’s cardiac survival rates. In respect of the 28 May this year and to extensive reporting in the particular issue, I will examine that issue and get back Sunraysia Daily detailing an ambulance radio outage to the honourable member. which sent paramedics to the wrong location. Does the

Premier agree with his Minister for Health that both the 26BNational disability insurance scheme: observation report and the detailed accounts of headquarters attending paramedics were ‘flat wrong’ — yes or no? Mr KATOS (South Barwon) — My question is to Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — I thank the the Premier. Can the Premier advise the house of honourable member for his question. I do not know the developments with the establishment of the details of that particular case. I will examine the issues headquarters of the national disability insurance scheme that have been raised in good faith by the Leader of the (NDIS)? Opposition and get back to him. But I can say in respect of ambulance services in Victoria that on coming to Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — I thank the government we inherited a — — honourable member for his question and for his vigorous campaign to have the national disability Honourable members interjecting. insurance scheme headquarters go to Geelong. On 4 May this year I was very proud on behalf of all The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Victorians to sign the NDIS agreement with the federal Bendigo East! government. A little less than one month later I was Dr NAPTHINE — I can say that since coming to pleased to be with the Prime Minister at Cunningham office we have invested significant extra Pier in Geelong to announce that the national resources — — headquarters for the NDIS, DisabilityCare Australia, would be located in Geelong. Honourable members interjecting. The Victorian government has always been a very The SPEAKER — Order! It is the first question of strong advocate for the national disability insurance the day, and the house is becoming disorderly already. I scheme, and I congratulate particularly the Minister for would like members to come back to order and remain Community Services and the former Premier, the in order so that we can actually hear what is being said member for Hawthorn, for their strong advocacy for the by the Premier’s in his answer. I have heard enough NDIS. The Victorian government has also been a very from the member for Bendigo East today. strong advocate for the headquarters of the NDIS, or DisabilityCare Australia, to be based in Geelong. This Dr NAPTHINE — Our ambulance officers do a campaign certainly had great support from local MPs thoroughly professional job; they are working very hard the member for South Barwon and upper house MPs and delivering positive outcomes. Indeed our David Koch, Simon Ramsay and David O’Brien, all

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

1968 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 11 June 2013

members for Western Victoria Region. It also had interfacing directly with those beneficiaries of broad support from the City of Greater Geelong, from DisabilityCare. people with disabilities in the Geelong region and from local organisations servicing people with disabilities in 27BAmbulance services: Gippsland that region. Mr ANDREWS (Leader of the Opposition) — My In announcing this decision the Prime Minister — — question is again to the Premier. I refer the Premier to the fact that during the evening of Saturday, 8 June, Honourable members interjecting. there were no ambulances covering Cowes, Grantville, Wonthaggi, Leongatha, Korumburra, Foster, Moe, Dr NAPTHINE — I was happy to be alongside and Traralgon, Maffra or Sale, and I ask: when most of be photographed with the Prime Minister in Geelong at Gippsland has no ambulance coverage during the Cunningham Pier — — Queen’s Birthday long weekend, is it not time to acknowledge that Victoria is in the midst of an Honourable members interjecting. ambulance service crisis? The SPEAKER — Order! I ask the house come to Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — I will investigate the order. I am going to start moving a few people out of allegations made in the question, because I remember the house if they do not come to order. the last time we were in the house there were Dr NAPTHINE — I was pleased to be with the allegations made about failing to respond to a particular Prime Minister when this announcement was made. I letter, and that letter was responded to — — was also pleased that the Prime Minister was gracious Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, under enough to highlight that the Victorian government’s standing order 58 the Premier is not being relevant at all $25 million contribution was a significant factor in this to this question. He is actually trying to re-answer a decision. In her letter to me dated 31 May the Prime question from the last sitting week, and I ask you to Minister said: draw him back to answering the question that was I am pleased to advise that, on the basis of your government’s asked. additional investment of $25 million to meet the costs of relocation and establishment for the head office, I accept your The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point offer. of order. The answer is relevant to the question that was asked. In her press release the Prime Minister was gracious enough to say: Dr NAPTHINE — I can advise the house with The Gillard government has made this decision on the respect to the areas that were mentioned by the Leader location of the head office on the basis of the Victorian of the Opposition that in Wonthaggi, since we have government’s offer of $25 million toward the costs of been in office there have been six additional ambulance relocation and establishment for the head office. officers — —

Clearly what we have is a good level of cooperation Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, the between the federal and state governments. Geelong is question related to the evening of Saturday, 8 June, and the right place for this headquarters. It has a history of coverage on that night. It would be good for those innovation and leadership in services for people with communities and for all of us if the Premier were to disabilities. It has Deakin University and a TAFE, address his answer to the specifics of the question, strong educational sectors that provide the right training rather than denying it or bragging his way out of it. for people in this area, and the Transport Accident Commission headquarters in Geelong is a valuable The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the addition. Geelong also has direct access to Avalon and Opposition is well aware — I do not know how many Tullamarine airports. times I have to say this — that the preamble, which related to ambulances in the Gippsland area, was the The benefits of this include 300 jobs: 115 next year and basis of his question. In fact the Premier was being 300 by 2018–19, plus 150 in local service delivery, extremely relevant in answering the question that was worth $34 million per annum to Geelong. But the most asked, particularly in regard to Wonthaggi, which was important benefit is that senior bureaucrats and mentioned. policy-makers will be working alongside people delivering services to people with disabilities and Dr NAPTHINE — What I was outlining was the fact that since we have been in government there has

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Tuesday, 11 June 2013 ASSEMBLY 1969

been additional funding for ambulance services, gallery has, that the Premier is quoting from a additional resources for ambulance services and document. That is what you have just determined, and additional officers. With respect to the areas that the on the basis of your determination, I would ask that the Leader of the Opposition referred to, as I said, there are Premier make that document, from which he is quoting 6 additional officers at Wonthaggi, 6 additional officers and reading, available to the house. at Cowes through conversion of on-call to night shift, 6 additional officers at Maffra and a new 24-hour Mr Clark — On the point of order, Speaker, the branch with 12 officers at Grantville. honourable member is confusing two separate issues. He is confusing the rule about not reading one’s Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, the contribution to the house, which of course the Premier Premier is reading from a document. We ask that he was not doing, and the separate issue of quoting from a make that document available to the house. document, which is what gives rise to the right to request the document be made available, and that is The SPEAKER — Order! The Premier said he is when a person is citing a particular source as the referring to notes. authority for what the person is saying. That has not occurred in this instance. The Premier has simply been Ms Allan — On a further point of order, Speaker, I referring to notes, and he is therefore completely in can see in front of me that the Premier is reading from a order, and your rulings have been correct. spreadsheet with numbers and towns named on it. That is not notes; that is clearly part of the factual basis of his Mr Merlino — On the point of order, Speaker, I answer. The Premier is reading the figures from that refer you to page 71 of Rulings from the Chair, document, which is clearly a table. I ask that you make ‘Making documents available — summary of that document, from which he is clearly quoting as part principles’, which states: of the factual basis of his answer to the question from the Leader of the Opposition, available to the house. … where members quote from public documents in debate they must be prepared to make available on request those Ms Asher — On the point of order, Speaker, particular documents. whether one’s notes are typed or not typed is irrelevant The Premier was clearly, in your own words, Speaker, to the discussion. The fact of the matter is that the quoting from that document. He must be prepared to Premier is referring to notes, not reading from notes. make that document available to the house.

The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point The SPEAKER — Order! The Premier was of order. The Leader of the House is correct. referring to notes, I take it, and the Premier was also Ms Allan — On a further point of order, Speaker, I referring to a document that gave him statistical would appreciate you providing some clarification on information, but he was not quoting from a document. I this sort of ruling. I can see the document from here. do not uphold the point of order. The document has names and numbers on it. It is a Dr NAPTHINE — I was referring to figures on this clearly a document. It is the document that is sitting on table, which indicate the number of staff at top of the box. If the Premier has nothing to hide, why various — — will he not make this document available? He is reading from it; he is using the figures in that document as the Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, the basis for his answer. If that is not a document that is Premier has just made a mockery of your ruling. He has part of the record, then what is, Speaker? referred directly to the table he is taking statistics from. If that is not using a document to form the basis of an The SPEAKER — Order! I was watching the answer, what is, Speaker? Can you uphold the Premier when he was referring to his notes and longstanding conventions of this place — that is, answering the question. He was looking at the notes in longstanding conventions that have been in place for a front of him from which he was quoting particular very long period of time — about members of things. I ask the Premier: were you referring to notes? Parliament quoting from documents. That is exactly Dr NAPTHINE — I was referring to notes. what the Premier was doing, which is exactly what Hansard will show us tomorrow. You are throwing Mr Andrews — On a further point of order, away a centuries-long tradition of what goes on in this Speaker, your interpretation is completely incompatible place, and that is the sort of Speaker we are putting up with the answer the Premier just gave you. You have with. clearly determined, as we have and as I am sure the

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

1970 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 11 June 2013

Ms Asher — On the point of order, Speaker, the resources were available in Gippsland on Saturday, Premier has indicated now on multiple occasions in 8 June. response to multiple points of order that he has been referring to notes. The Premier is entitled to refer to 28BEmployment: Barwon region notes. He is not quoting from documents. The Premier has said he was referring to notes. I am interested in the Mr WAKELING (Ferntree Gully) — My question member for Bendigo East’s reference to hundreds of is to the Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional and years of tradition, because what we have seen in the last Rural Development. Can the minister update the house few weeks is a new tradition established by the member on how the Victorian coalition government’s regional for Bendigo East of raising point of order after point of policies are benefiting jobs and growth in the greater order to interrupt question time. Barwon region?

Mr Merlino — On the point of order, Speaker, the Mr RYAN (Minister for Regional and Rural moment the Premier resumed his answer he again Development) — I thank the member for his question. referred to the numbers in that document. He is Following Ford’s announcement of its intention to referring to the figures in that document. He is directly cease manufacture of its product at both Geelong and quoting from a document, and under both standing Broadmeadows from October 2016 our government has orders and Rulings from the Chair he should be worked constructively to secure the future of industries prepared to make it available, as requested. and jobs in Geelong and more broadly across the Barwon region. Mr Watt — On the point of order, Speaker, I apologise as I cannot find it in Rulings from the Chair, We have moved quickly with an action plan to support but I refer to the note you handed out last week, which the people who are most affected. In the first instance says: they are the 1200 folk in Broadmeadows and Geelong who will lose their jobs in October 2016. In addition to … a member must not continue to repeat a point of order that them, very importantly we have the hundreds upon seeks a ruling from the Chair where the Chair has already hundreds of people within the supply chain whose jobs ruled on the member’s original point of order … are also likely to be affected. There is now a total of That is exactly what the member for Bendigo East $49 million available through the Economic Diversity continues to do — raise the same point of order. I ask Fund. That comprises contributions of $30 million from you again to rule it out of order. the federal government, $9 million from the state government and $10 million from Ford. The Premier’s The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point Ford task force has already met to ensure we are of order. moving as quickly as possible to take up new job and business opportunities. Dr NAPTHINE — As I was advising the house, since we came to office there have been additional Last Friday I attended the automotive leaders dialogue, resources provided to ambulance services across together with the Minister for Manufacturing. The Victoria and throughout the Gippsland region, Prime Minister and her colleagues were also present, as including additional officers at Morwell, additional were representatives from the South Australian officers at Wonthaggi — — government and other industry stakeholders. The meeting confirmed our joint support for this industry Honourable members interjecting. and acknowledged our shared responsibility in ensuring a viable, innovative and efficient industry as we move The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the forward. We also emphasised that after 2016 Ford will Opposition and Deputy Leader of the Opposition, that still have more than 1500 employees in Victoria. In is enough. addition, we emphasised the point that the Premier has made repeatedly on behalf of the government — and I Dr NAPTHINE — There are additional officers at would hope on behalf of the Parliament — that other Maffra, additional officers and a new 24-hour branch at governments around Australia, both state and local, Grantville, and additional officers at Bairnsdale and should buy the local product. That was another basic Sale. With respect to Saturday, 8 June, I am advised by outcome of Friday’s discussions held in concert with Ambulance Victoria that there were full resources the Prime Minister. available in Gippsland. There was a high workload in Gippsland on that night, but according to advice I have Our government is very firmly focused on investing in received Ambulance Victoria has assured the office of future jobs. Since 2011–12 we have launched the Minister Davis, the Minister for Health, that full

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Tuesday, 11 June 2013 ASSEMBLY 1971

$11 million Geelong Advancement Fund and the appropriate services. In the next 18 months will add a $4 million Geelong Industry Fund. In the budget last new 24-hour unit with an estimated 12 paramedics at year we provided $93 million for the rebuild of the Leopold and an additional night shift at Lara with an Geelong Hospital. In this month’s budget we additional 9 paramedics. announced $22 million for the construction of the new Grovedale railway station and $50 million for the Ms Neville — On a point of order, Speaker, I ask Waurn Ponds community hospital. that the Premier be relevant to the question. This is about assuring Geelong residents that they will not be We have also worked with Cotton On, which will left without coverage for a third time. ensure that that organisation will establish its global distribution centre in Geelong, an initiative that will The SPEAKER — Order! The answer was relevant create another 500 jobs. Last week during our visit as a to the question that was asked. cabinet to Geelong I announced the new $277 million Epworth Geelong hospital. It will receive $2.85 million Dr NAPTHINE — I am advising the house about from the Regional Growth Fund. That will be enabling the additional resources this government is providing to infrastructure to see that great initiative go forward. It Ambulance Victoria and paramedics in Geelong and will be built in concert with the work being undertaken the Geelong region. I would have thought it was very by Deakin University, and it will result in a new relevant to ambulance services in Geelong. It is in the hospital which will provide patient care, research and context of a record budget of $662 million for medical education. ambulance services, which is a 17 per cent increase on when the previous government was in office, when it Furthermore, I announced along with the Premier the had the botched merger of the Metropolitan Ambulance expansion of our natural gas system at Winchelsea, a Service and Rural Ambulance Victoria. The current town very well known to the Premier, with $4.1 million Leader of the Opposition — — being invested in this initiative. It follows on the announcements of a similar nature I made at Mr Andrews — Better than now. What’s your best Bannockburn only a couple of weeks ago. I also response time? recently announced $2.94 million from our fund toward Dr NAPTHINE — The Leader of the Opposition the new $11.78 million pipeline into the Golden Plains asked about response times. I refer to Access to shire. A multitude of investments are being made and Ambulance Services, a Victorian Auditor-General’s an enormous amount of money is being invested into report of October 2010. It says: this great region of our state. Performance data shows that ambulance response times have

29BAmbulance services: Geelong worsened in both metropolitan and regional areas over the last six years — Ms NEVILLE (Bellarine) — My question is to the Premier. Last sitting week the Premier was informed of under that man. a complete failure of ambulances in the greater Geelong Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, the region. A leaked Ambulance Victoria report now Premier was asked a question about June 2013. Under reveals that this same shocking failure occurred again standing order 58 he is debating the question. We plead on Saturday, 8 June. What will the Premier do to make with you once again to uphold the standing orders in sure that emergency patients in greater Geelong will not this place and bring the Premier back to answering the be locked out of ambulance services for a third time? question. Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — Again I place on the The SPEAKER — Order! I ask the Premier to record my appreciation for the work our ambulance come back to answering the question. officers do around the state. With respect to ambulance services in Geelong, I advise that the number of Dr NAPTHINE — There was an interjection about paramedics in the Geelong region has increased by response times, and I can advise the house what almost 25 per cent, from 108 in the last year of the response times in Geelong within 15 minutes were: in Labor government in 2009–10 to 134 in 2013. Since we 2010–11 it was 67.3 per cent; in 2012–13 it was have been in government we have added two new 75.9 per cent; and in April 2013 — the latest data — it non-emergency patient transport crews totalling was 79.5 per cent. It has increased each and every year 6 paramedics and an additional 24-hour unit, which is under the coalition government. 12 paramedics. In 2012 we introduced RefCom to the Geelong region, which refers less urgent calls to

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Ms Neville — On a point of order, Speaker, again I Dr NAPTHINE — Notes. ask you to bring the Premier back to the question. It was not about response times. There was no response 30BEconomy: government achievements from ambulance services in Geelong on Saturday night. Mr McCURDY (Murray Valley) — My question is The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point to the Treasurer. Can the Treasurer update the house on of order. The answer was relevant to the question that recent indicators showing the strength of the Victorian was asked, specifically on response times. economy, and is he aware of any other views?

Dr NAPTHINE — As I was outlining to the house, Mr O’BRIEN (Treasurer) — I thank the member since we have come to government there are additional for Murray Valley for his question. Last week the resources in Geelong, there is additional funding for Australian Bureau of Statistics released the March Geelong and there are additional paramedics in quarter national accounts figures, which showed that Geelong. Response times have significantly improved, the Australian economy grew by 0.6 per cent in the from 67 per cent to 79.5 per cent — that is an increase March quarter — an annualised rate of 2.5 per cent. in response times. I can also advise the house that the The figures also showed that state final demand in the advice I am getting from Ambulance Victoria is that Victorian economy increased by 0.8 per cent in the there has been a 20 per cent increase in survival rates March quarter, which was the strongest performance of for adults suffering cardiac arrest in the Geelong region. any state in the country, stronger than the rise of So we are getting better response times — — 0.6 percent in Queensland and stronger than the rise of 0.4 percent in New South Wales. All the other states Ms Barker — On a point of order, Speaker, I refer actually declined. The national accounts recorded that you to Rulings from the Chair, page 71, which states: there were increases in Victoria in private business investment, gains in public consumption and gains in Documents from public officers, in connection to public questions, are regarded as public documents. household consumption as well. The Premier has referred to advice he has received from State final demand is not a complete measure of Ambulance Victoria. I suggest that officers from economic performance, partly because it does not Ambulance Victoria are public officers. Therefore I ask include the impact of exports. This is something that you to ask the Premier to make that advice available to some members of the house have trouble the chamber. understanding. State final demand is not a complete recorder of the state’s economy. That then leads to the The SPEAKER — Order! I do not believe that a question: how did Victoria perform on the exports front public document was sent to the Premier, so I do not last quarter? Against a national average increase of uphold the member’s point of order. 1.1 per cent the Victorian economy grew exports by 5.3 per cent in the last quarter. This is one of the Honourable members interjecting. strongest performances in the country.

Dr NAPTHINE — By interjection a member This government is determined to grow opportunities opposite asked, ‘What was that survival time?’. for Victorian businesses to find new markets. That is why we are expanding the port of Melbourne. That is Mr Andrews interjected. why we are developing the port of Hastings. That is Dr NAPTHINE — The Leader of the Opposition why the Premier is leading a super trade mission to has asked, ‘Over what period?’. It increased by 20 per South-East Asia, building on our missions to China, to cent from 2008–09 to 2011–12, largely the time we India and to the Middle East. The Victorian coalition have been in government. Those are better response government’s economic management is about growing times and better survival rates, and there are more investment in this state. It is why we have a record resources for ambulances in Geelong. $6.1 billion infrastructure program in this year’s budget. When it comes to the $6 billion to $8 billion stage 1 of Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, the the east–west link and the 3200 jobs it will create, there Premier is quoting extensively from a document. We is only one side of this house that supports that project, ask that he make the document available to the house. and that is the coalition side.

The SPEAKER — Order! Does the Premier have a These national accounts figures have been widely document or does he have notes? welcomed from a Victorian perspective. Indeed as

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Channel 10 reported on the evening news of 5 June, the 31BFrankston Hospital: funding Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data showed: Mr SHAW (Frankston) — My question is directed Nationally Victoria led the charge in economic growth. to the Premier. The Leader of the Opposition, a former Labor health minister, along with the member for In that same report there was a commentator who, in Cranbourne and two members for South Eastern the face of all these facts, peddled a contrary view. This Metropolitan Region in the Council — the shadow commentator said: Minister for Health, Gavin Jennings, and Lee What we are seeing in terms of the performance of the Tarlamis — have in recent weeks, in one of their Victorian economy I think is cause for substantial concern. campaigns to defame and downgrade Frankston, launched an attack on Frankston Hospital, thus If we are leading the country on state final demand, we attacking the hardworking doctors, nurses and other have an export performance more than four times the staff. They have criticised this government’s national average and we are seeing economic growth commitment to hospital funding and beds. Will the and a record infrastructure investment program in this Premier update the house on the current state of state, why would people be so negative? What we see is Frankston Hospital and the progress being made on the economic ambulance chasers. We see people who want $76 million budgeted for it in the first two budgets of to fly in the face of what the Australian Bureau of the coalition government? Statistics says. Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — I thank the Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, the honourable member for Frankston for his question, for Treasurer seems intent on giving the shadow his concern about health services in Frankston and for Treasurer — we have all worked that out — a belting. his concern about his electorate. The member for That is fair enough, but I would not think — — Frankston would understand that in the recent state Honourable members interjecting. budget $14.3 billion worth of funding was provided for health services across the state. That is a record level of Mr Andrews — If I can complete my point of funding. Significantly, it is nearly 15 per cent more order, if that is what the Treasurer is intent on doing, funding than was provided under the Labor that is fine by us, but what I do not think is appropriate government. With respect to Frankston Hospital, the is trying to make gags out of the questions we have doctors, nurses, auxiliary health staff and all the staff do been asking about an ambulance service in crisis. That an outstanding job of providing first-rate health is what we are on about, and it should not be — — services, and it is disappointing when people go to Frankston — they fly in and fly out — and criticise the The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point hardworking people at Frankston Hospital. of order. The member asked about capital works at Frankston Mr O’BRIEN — Some people do not like the Hospital. I can advise that in the 2011–12 budget facts — the facts are what the ABS says about the $35.9 million was provided for an inpatient expansion, strength of the Victorian economy — and they go out and in the 2012–13 budget another $40 million was there and try to peddle doom and gloom. The same provided for the redevelopment of the emergency people have been busted putting out misleading department — a total of nearly $76 million for capital economic statistics on Twitter. Whether it is Slater or works at Frankston Hospital. This was following whether it is Gordon, these economic ambulance 11 years of neglect by the previous government and the chasers in the opposition should hang their heads in previous Minister for Health. shame. Clearly what was needed was significant and strong Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, I had representation from the Frankston community and from hoped that the Treasurer might have refrained from local members to get this sort of funding for Frankston again trying to turn legitimate questions about Hospital. I am pleased to advise the house that the ambulances into a comedy routine. It is offensive, and it Frankston Hospital capital works redevelopment is — — project will now be undertaken as a single project. It will involve the construction of a new four-storey The SPEAKER — Order! ‘Offensive’ is not a point building to accommodate the expanded and of order. reconfigured emergency department. It will include 64 inpatient beds, 2 intensive care beds, 2 special-care nursery cots and 24 short-stay beds. When the new

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1974 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 11 June 2013

emergency department is completed, and it has these Mr DIXON — of education to the federal extra beds, there will be significantly less ramping for government and that it needed to underline the ambulances. importance of states in delivering education.

Members of the previous government now want to We began those negotiations in good faith. We have abuse the good people of Frankston, the good always been willing to negotiate, and we are now. In community of Frankston and the hardworking people of fact our officials are in an ongoing way talking with the Frankston Hospital. They know they were ignored and federal government. We are doing that. I have attended neglected for 11 years under the Labor government. every single ministerial council and subcommittee That is why we have problems with ramping at meeting that was relevant to this issue. I have asked Frankston. That is why we have insufficient beds and hard questions. They have not always been answered, an insufficient emergency department. That is why we but I have been there as part of that process. As I are putting $76 million in. pointed out last sitting week, the process has been an absolute shambles. We have had the data, the modelling The construction tender for this important project and the amounts change almost monthly and even concluded in May this year and is currently under weekly. evaluation. It is expected that this $76 million project will be completed by the end of 2014. This is an In the absence of a real plan we decided to be positive, important project for Frankston and the surrounding so in February we put forward a Victorian funding plan. communities. They know how important health Just two weeks ago we offered the federal government services are. They know how important it is to have an the opportunity of a four-way negotiation between the efficient emergency department. They know how state government, the federal government, the Catholic important it is to have 64 extra inpatient beds and schools and the independent schools in one room. Both 24 short-stay beds. They know how hard their doctors of those initiatives we put forward were absolutely and their nurses work, and they know how hard the dismissed by the federal government. people in the health service at Frankston work. They are getting the support from this government for the Even just a few weeks ago we were asked for some capital infrastructure they need to improve their service input. There was a meeting at Melbourne Airport about delivery for the local community. The Frankston the new commonwealth Australian Education Bill community is a very proud community, it is a very 2013, and we were asked to give our input. All our strong community and it deserves this sort of input has been largely dismissed. That is a really investment from a caring government. important piece of legislation, because that legislation, which has gone through the House of Representatives,

32BSchools: federal funding gives the federal government further control over education. It allows the federal government to override Mrs FYFFE (Evelyn) — My question is to the the policies of individual schools, individual sectors and Minister for Education. Can the minister update the individual states. It is a very dangerous piece of house on recent developments in the federal legislation. government’s negotiating strategy to change school funding? Despite the threats and despite the bullying we have always been willing to negotiate, so it was very Mr DIXON (Minister for Education) — I thank the disappointing to see that the letter that the federal member for Evelyn for her question and for her real minister wrote to me on 5 June went straight to the interest in school funding. As I said last sitting week, media before we even received a hard copy. Then Victoria will not sign up to a slogan. What we will sign yesterday a letter from the Prime Minister to the up to is a funding model that is going to benefit every Premier again went straight to the media. I will mention single Victorian school, child and family. All along we that letter, because do you know what that letter said? have had our principles on the table — that no Do you know what the Prime Minister said to the Victorian would be disadvantaged, that it would be Premier? The Prime Minister said to the Premier that it financially sustainable, that we would not be handing is time to talk; it is not — — over any further control — Honourable members interjecting. Mr Merlino interjected. Questions interrupted. The SPEAKER — Order! The Deputy Leader of the Opposition!

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Tuesday, 11 June 2013 ASSEMBLY 1975

100BSUSPENSION OF MEMBER Ms Allan interjected.

33BMember for Monbulk The SPEAKER — Order! It is not an opportunity to get up and debate an issue. Whether the member The SPEAKER — Order! I have reminded the believes an answer is right or wrong, a point of order is Deputy Leader of the Opposition to be quiet enough not the time to raise it. I do not uphold the point of times. He can leave the chamber for an hour and a half. order the member is trying to raise.

Honourable member for Monbulk withdrew from Dr NAPTHINE — Indeed I understand that — — chamber. Mr Andrews interjected. QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the Opposition will be out with his deputy in a minute. 34BSchools: federal funding

Questions resumed. Dr NAPTHINE — I was in Bendigo on 31 May to sign the contract for the new $630 million Bendigo Mr DIXON (Minister for Education) — That letter Hospital, and I saw firsthand the enormous resources said to the Premier that it is time to talk, not time for that the ambulance officers had in that area. Three doorstop diplomacy. Who is doing the doorstop ambulances were able to visit me at that location and a diplomacy when you see that? The Prime Minister in number of ambulance officers, who had enough that letter also put forward a 30 June deadline. If this is resources — — meant to be the educational reform of a generation, why do we have such an artificial time line being put on it? Ms Kairouz interjected. It deserves more than that. We want to talk openly, we The SPEAKER — Order! Enough is enough! want to talk factually and we want to talk consistently with the federal government. That is what we are Questions interrupted. requesting. Our door is open, and we are willing to do it that way, not through these sorts of letters leaked to the 101BSUSPENSION OF MEMBER media.

36BMember for Kororoit

35BAmbulance services: Bendigo region The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Ms EDWARDS (Bendigo West) — My question is Kororoit can leave the chamber for an hour and a half. to the Premier. Last sitting week the Premier was informed that no ambulances were available between Honourable member for Kororoit withdrew from Kangaroo Flat and Melbourne on 27 May. It has now chamber. been revealed that this same shocking failure happened again on 1 June. What will the Premier do to make sure QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE that emergency patients in Kangaroo Flat and the

Bendigo region will not be locked out of the ambulance 37BAmbulance services: Bendigo region service for a third time? Questions resumed. Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — I do not accept the premise of the question. Indeed I am advised by Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — As I have said, we Ambulance Victoria that the premise of the question — have provided six additional ambulance officers to referring to the earlier question — was not accurate and Bendigo, six to Mildura, six to Woodend, six to that there were resources available in the Bendigo Maryborough, six to Kyabram, four to Castlemaine and region at the times that were referred to in the previous three to Swan Hill. We have provided additional question. ambulance paramedics throughout the Loddon Mallee region. Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, the Premier is challenging the factual basis of the question Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, page 71 that was asked. I can provide a text message from — — of Rulings from the Chair dated December 2012 says where a member is quoting from a document they must The SPEAKER — Order! A point of order is not an be prepared to make it available on request. The opportunity for a member to get up and debate an issue. Premier clearly just quoted a series of figures and

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1976 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 11 June 2013

towns. He held up a document and quoted, and if that is ambulance services and an investment in ambulance not quoting from a document, then goodness knows officers, and that contrasts with what happened under what is. It is clearly not notes — it is a typed document the Labor government. If I look at a headline that says that has been made available to the Premier. We ask ‘Rural ambulance service worse than five years ago’, you once again to uphold the longstanding convention that was published on 7 October 2010. in this place and the Westminster system and ask that this document be made available to the house. Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, could you support the smooth operation of the house by upholding Ms Asher — On the point of order, Speaker, I refer the standing orders and ask the Premier to stop debating to the page of notes you distributed to this house on the question. 29 May entitled ‘Members — points of order’. I refer inter alia to a point that states: The SPEAKER — Order! I ask the Premier to stop debating the question and answer it. a member must not continue to repeat a point of order that seeks a ruling from the Chair where the Chair has already Dr NAPTHINE — The point I was making was ruled on the member’s original point of order; spurious and that under the previous government ambulances frivolous matters cannot be raised … services were merged, and that merger was absolutely I put it to you, Speaker, that you have already ruled and utterly botched. The Auditor-General said it was ad nauseum on this point of order. I invite you to do so botched by the then minister — — again. It has been raised on multiple occasions throughout the day with the purpose of disrupting The SPEAKER — Order! The Premier should put question time, not seeking information. the document down. I ask the Premier not to wave around the document. I ask him not to debate the issue Mr Pallas — On the point of order, Speaker, no but to answer the question. doubt it should be drawn to the attention of the Leader of the House that the manager of opposition business Dr NAPTHINE — When we came to government was making a further point of order in respect of the we inherited a service that had poor performance and document that the Premier — — low morale as a result of a botched merger under the previous health minister, who is now the Leader of the Honourable members interjecting. Opposition. What we have done since we have been in office is put in extra funding — nearly 17 per cent extra Mr Pallas — Of course, the circumstances attaching funding — we have increased the number of to that document and the language employed by the officers — — Premier go directly to whether or not the document should be employed. The point that the manager of Ms Edwards — On a point of order, Speaker, the opposition business was making was that the Premier Premier is clearly debating the question. The people was quoting quite graphically from a set number of living along the Calder Highway from Kangaroo Flat to figures and locations. It cannot possibly be that he is Melbourne deserve an answer. They want to know why selectively referring to the document; he is quoting they were left without ambulance coverage. directly from it. There is no other possible construction that could be applied, and in those circumstances we The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point ask that the document be made available to the of order. chamber. Dr NAPTHINE — As I outlined, we are putting in The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point a record level of funding. We have record numbers of of order. paramedics, we have record numbers of ambulance vehicles and we are opening more stations to provide Dr NAPTHINE — What I was outlining was the better ambulance services to the people of Victoria. fact that since we came to government there has been an increase in resources available for ambulances. 38BLocal government: federal referendum There has been a record level of funding, there are Mr MORRIS (Mornington) — My question is to additional ambulance officers, there are additional the Minister for Local Government. Can the minister ambulance vehicles and additional ambulance stations advise the house of the implications for Victorian local have been opened. Indeed the services are working, as government bodies of the forthcoming federal we have seen with figures with respect to survival rates constitutional referendum on financial recognition of from cardiac arrest. There is a significant increase in local government? survival rates. What we are seeing is an investment in

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Mrs POWELL (Minister for Local Government) — $44 million to put the referendum question and I thank the member for Mornington for his question and $11 million for what it is calling education or for his really strong support for local councils in information but what in fact is brainwashing of Victoria. The Victorian government does not support members of the community into thinking that they will the federal Labor government’s proposed referendum be getting more federal funds and that this policy will on local government, because we believe it will make be better for them. We believe councils will be worse Victorian councils worse off. This is purely a power off. grab from Canberra to bypass the states and impose its policies on Victoria’s local councils. Honourable members interjecting.

The referendum question that has just come in in the The SPEAKER — Order! I will not warn the last couple of weeks shows that it really is a power member for Richmond again. grab. If I can paraphrase the question, the federal government is seeking to give itself the power to ‘grant Mrs POWELL — The Australian Local financial assistance to any state, or to any local Government Association has also estimated that it will government body formed by a law of a state, on such put aside $10 million from councils across Australia to terms and conditions as the Parliament thinks fit’. That fund this case, so it is requesting $2 million from the shows that there could be an issue where councils lose Municipal Association of Victoria, from councils. money as a result of the change because there will be There are those who say there is a risk to the Roads to new strings attached to any funding going to councils, Recovery funding. There is no risk to the Roads to but there could also be changes made to the funding Recovery funding. Roads to Recovery has been funded regime by the federal government because under a by the commonwealth government over the last decade, national funding allocation it is likely that Victoria’s and it will continue to be so funded. This program has relatively efficient councils would lose money in been very successful, and the councils like it. Councils subsidising those poorly performing councils in other do not need to have constitutional recognition for this states. That means we could be subsidising those other extra funding. councils.

Honourable members interjecting. ACTING OMBUDSMAN

The SPEAKER — Order! The member for The SPEAKER — Order! I advise the house that Richmond! today I administered to John Taylor, the Acting Ombudsman, the oath required by section 10 of the Mrs POWELL — The Victoria Grants Ombudsman Act 1973. Commission, which distributes federal funding, expects that as a best-case scenario, under constitutional ROAD SAFETY AND SENTENCING ACTS recognition Victoria’s share of local government grants AMENDMENT BILL 2013 would fall to the same inequitable share that Victoria receives from the GST. This would result in a 18BIntroduction and first reading $36 million funding cut to Victorian councils from Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) — I move: Canberra overnight. That I have leave to bring in a bill for an act to amend the There are those who think that constitutional Road Safety Act 1986, the Marine (Drug, Alcohol and recognition will mean more commonwealth funding for Pollution Control) Act 1988, the Magistrates’ Court Act local government. Constitutional recognition will do 1989, the Sentencing Act 1991, the Criminal Procedure Act nothing to increase funding to Victorian councils, and it 2009 and the Sentencing Amendment (Community Correction Reform) Act 2011 and for other purposes. will do nothing to protect the level of federal funding to local government. In fact, Canberra’s contribution to Mr PAKULA (Lyndhurst) — I ask the local government through the federal assistance grants Attorney-General to provide a brief explanation of the fell from 1.02 per cent of total commonwealth taxation bill. revenue in 1996–97 to around 0.65 per cent in 2011–12. Even in this year’s federal budget, the Gillard Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) — The principal government has cut budgeted grants to Victorian purpose of the bill is to simplify and consolidate the councils by $13.4 million. This is at the same time that current complex range of provisions in the Sentencing the federal government has managed to find Act 1991 and the Road Safety Act 1986 relating to $55 million for this in this year’s federal budget —

ROAD LEGISLATION AMENDMENT (USE AND DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION AND OTHER MATTERS) BILL 2013

1978 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 11 June 2013 licence cancellations, suspensions and restorations, and deficient, and the bill improves the previous act by alcohol interlocks. streamlining the approval processes and providing a one-stop shop for dealing with those particular Motion agreed to. approvals.

Read first time. Motion agreed to.

ROAD LEGISLATION AMENDMENT (USE Read first time. AND DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION AND OTHER MATTERS) BILL 2013 BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE

39B 19BIntroduction and first reading Notices of motion: removal

Mr MULDER (Minister for Roads) — I move: The SPEAKER — Order! Notices of motion 8 to 17 will be removed from the notice paper unless That I have leave to bring in a bill for an act to amend the members who wish their notice to remain advise the Road Safety Act 1986 and other acts in relation to the use and disclosure of information and other matters and for other Clerk in writing before 6.00 p.m. today. purposes. PETITIONS Mr DONNELLAN (Narre Warren North) — I ask the minister to provide a brief explanation of the bill. Following petition presented to house:

Mr MULDER (Minister for Roads) — The bill 40BDyslexia: student learning support allows for VicRoads to provide certain information to other agencies, such as Victoria Police, in relation to To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria: tow-truck operators in the state of Victoria, it stops The petition of concerned residents of the state of Victoria persons from refusing to allow others to retrieve wishes to draw to the attention of the house that currently personal belongings from an accident-damaged vehicle primary and secondary school students living in the state of and it places clarity around the allocation system for Victoria who have the learning disability known as dyslexia do not have their learning needs catered for by the school tow-truck operators. system, in either government or non-government schools.

Motion agreed to. Currently government school teachers in Victoria do not receive mandatory training about how to either assess the Read first time. learning needs of or how to teach dyslexic students. The only information currently provided about how to teach dyslexic students the crucial life skill ‘reading’ is provided in the form MAJOR TRANSPORT PROJECTS of online information pages. There is no online support for FACILITATION AMENDMENT (EAST them to teach dyslexic students writing and/or spelling. WEST LINK AND OTHER PROJECTS) Imagine if teachers of non-dyslexic students were able to obtain their ‘qualifications to teach literacy’ by merely BILL 2013 following online information pages. Schools are not provided with appropriate levels of funding to cover the costs of 20BIntroduction and first reading necessary effective support, including literacy programs, specialist teaching, additional support staff or assistive Mr MULDER (Minister for Public Transport) — I technology, to address the disadvantage or discrimination move: these students endure.

That I have leave to bring in a bill for an act to amend the The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Major Transport Projects Facilitation Act 2009 to facilitate Assembly of Victoria introduce, debate and pass relevant the east–west link project and other major transport projects laws, or act under existing law and policy (as the case may by reducing procedural delays and red tape, to amend the be), to recognise dyslexia as a ‘learning disability’ or in some Transport Integration Act 2010 to improve the operation of other manner, so as to enable financial and other assistance to that act and for other purposes. be given to state of Victoria government and non-government schools to deliver effective learning support, including Mr PALLAS (Tarneit) — I ask the minister for a specialist teachers, additional support staff, literacy programs and assistive technology to students with dyslexia. brief explanation of the bill. Please note: currently the department of education in the state Mr MULDER (Minister for Public Transport) — of Victoria is attempting to have the Disability Discrimination The Major Transport Projects Facilitation Act 2009, Act ‘read down’. Therefore, it would not be sufficient to pass upon review by the department, was found to be legislation stating that dyslexia is a learning disability. For effective learning support to be delivered adequate funding

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Tuesday, 11 June 2013 ASSEMBLY 1979

must be provided, so that schools become effective in South Gippsland — C76 assessing the needs of these students and can provide students with appropriately qualified teachers, literacy programs, and Strathbogie — C59 assistive technology to enable them to reach their potential. Wellington — C71, C77 By Mr BROOKS (Bundoora) (522 signatures). Whittlesea — C169

Tabled. Wyndham — C164

SCRUTINY OF ACTS AND REGULATIONS Yarra Ranges — C109 Part 1 COMMITTEE Statutory Rules under the following Acts:

Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment 41BAlert Digest No. 8 Act 2002 — SR 56

Ms CAMPBELL (Pascoe Vale) presented Alert Conservation, Forests and Lands Act 1987 — SR 55 Digest No. 8 of 2013 on: Subordinate Legislation Act 1994: Borrowing and Investment Powers Amendment Documents under s 15 in relation to Statutory Bill 2013 Rules 53, 54, 55, 56 Catchment and Land Protection Amendment Bill 2013 Documents under s 16B in relation to: Justice Legislation Amendment Bill 2013 Fire Services Property Levy Act 2012 — National Parks Amendment (Leasing Powers and Notice under s 12, Determination of Levy Other Matters) Bill 2013 Rates Transport Legislation Amendment (Foundation Local Government Act 1989: Taxi and Hire Car Reforms) Bill 2013 Prohibition of Declaration of Differential Rates Inconsistent with Ministerial Guidelines — All together with appendices. Councils

Tabled. Prohibition of Declaration of Differential Rates Inconsistent with Ministerial Guidelines — Ordered to be printed. Monash City Council

Prohibition of Declaration of Differential Rates DOCUMENTS Inconsistent with Ministerial Guidelines — Moonee Valley City Council Tabled by Clerk: Racing Act 1958 — Harness Racing Victoria — Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 — Order under s 17D adoption of amendments to Victorian Local Rules of granting a lease over Yarra Bend Park Reserve Harness Racing.

Parliamentary Committees Act 2003 — Government response to the Road Safety Committee’s Report on the ROYAL ASSENT Inquiry into motorcycle safety Message read advising royal assent on 4 June to: Planning and Environment Act 1987 — Notices of approval of amendments to the following Planning Schemes: Heavy Vehicle National Law Application Bill 2013 Banyule — C77 Justice Legislation Amendment Bill 2013 Bayside — C98, C122 Sentencing Amendment (Abolition of Suspended Benalla — C27 Sentences and Other Matters) Bill 2013.

Boroondara — C173, C174

Cardinia — C115

Corangamite — C29

Greater Bendigo — C199

Monash — C93

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1980 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 11 June 2013

BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE this budget program, given that there have been significant opportunities to debate the budget in

42BProgram previous weeks. In fairness to the member for Bendigo East, I am also happy to indicate that I anticipate that Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and second-reading speeches will be made during Small Business) — I move: government business. As I said, given that there has been time to debate the budget previously, I think these That, under standing order 94(2), the orders of the day, government business, relating to the following bills be bills constitute a reasonable workload in the second-last considered and completed by 4.00 p.m. on Thursday, 13 June week of these sittings of Parliament. 2013: Ms ALLAN (Bendigo East) — In rising to speak on Appropriation (2013–2014) Bill 2013 the government business program I would like to make Appropriation (Parliament 2013–2014) Bill 2013 a few remarks on behalf of the opposition about the program that has been described by the Leader of the Borrowing and Investment Powers Amendment Bill House as a manageable program. I indicate that the 2013 opposition appreciates the opportunity for all those State Tax Laws Amendment (Budget and Other members who wish to speak on the budget bill to do so Measures) Bill 2013 and that potentially there will be the opportunity for Transport Legislation Amendment (Foundation Taxi them to do so in the next sitting week if the need arises and Hire Car Reforms) Bill 2013. at the conclusion of this week. The take-note motion will be discussed during the course of this week. It is I put it to the house that this is a manageable program. interesting to have the Leader of the House bring a The three budget bills which have been before the reform from the Legislative Council into this place. It is house for some time will form part of the government a new and different approach, and we can only hope business program. I expect there will be sufficient time that she will accept the opposition’s proposition for the today to debate the Appropriation (Parliament incorporation of second-reading speeches into Hansard, 2013–2014) Bill 2013 and the State Tax Laws which I believe happens in the upper house. Amendment (Budget and Other Measures) Bill 2013 and move to debate the budget after that. I also The incorporation of second-reading speeches would anticipate — although these matters are in the hands of provide more opportunities for debate and would mean the house — that after debate on the remaining two we would not have to sit here while speeches were read. bills tomorrow there will be an opportunity to go back We are all capable of reading them for ourselves and to further debate the budget. Again I imagine, doing the follow-up ourselves, but we know this depending on what the whips negotiate, that Thursday continues to be a point of debate between the two sides would be set aside for debate on the budget. of Parliament. We are keen to see a modest but forward-looking reform in this area. We know that the I am conscious, however, that even with that amount of Leader of the House has to negotiate with her time dedicated to the budget, some members may not colleagues in The Nationals, who do not want to see get an opportunity to speak on the budget during formal this sort of reform take place because they are more business under the government business program. I interested in scooting out the door at 4 o’clock on a therefore indicate to the member for Bendigo East that I Thursday than worrying about whether there is enough will move a take-note motion to allow members who time for debate to be held on the government business have not spoken on the budget to do so in the next program. sitting week. Those of us who came from the upper house will be familiar with the take-note motion that There are a number of bills on the program this week. I enables the Legislative Council to debate the budget hope there is ample opportunity — the Leader of the papers prior to the house receiving the bill. In the House did not go to this in her contribution — and Assembly’s case, it will allow Assembly members to significant time for debate on the transport legislation, debate the budget after it has passed through this which will introduce changes in the taxi industry. I am chamber. I think it is important that every member have sure members are aware of the controversy these an opportunity to speak on the budget, and I am very changes have already generated in the taxi industry and happy to facilitate that. more broadly. There have been a number of issues raised. We have already seen that the government is I also advise the house that my anticipated outcome for trying to ram these changes through. The government’s this week is that there will be standard hours. I do not response was flagged only two weeks ago and this see the need for any additional sittings to accommodate house will have had very little opportunity to debate the

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bills on the program in detail before 4 o’clock on compliment the member for Brighton on her Thursday. negotiations on the smooth running of the Legislative Assembly business and a very manageable government Perhaps the government might provide a business program. It is certainly important business. consideration-in-detail stage of the taxi bill, given that Most importantly, we are reaching the stage where it is many issues have been raised and many components of appropriate for the budget to be moved on. Giving as the Fels-Cousins report have not found their way into many members of the Legislative Assembly as possible the legislation. We know that taxi licence owners have the opportunity to make a contribution on the budget is a range of significant concerns and that regional taxi very important so that they can speak about their operators and taxi operators in places like Dandenong electorates and about how the government is and Frankston have concerns. There are issues right performing in and delivering to Victoria. across the industry with this bill, so we hope there will be sufficient time for debate on this bill. We also hope However, I noted the comment of the member for that on the first occasion the opposition has requested a Bendigo East about manageable programs. In the last consideration-in-detail stage in these sittings, we might several sitting weeks we have had to keep the program get one. Let us hope that is another reform that the new at this level because the opposition has collapsed the Leader of the House can introduce. She has been speaking list. It was not able to keep up with the tempo blazing a bit of a trail so far — a modest trail but a trail and provide and maintain enough speakers for the nonetheless. Let us hope we will see her convince her debate to continue. The Leader of the House in colleague the Minister for Public Transport to provide negotiations on the program has provided opposition that opportunity, because there is a lot of detail that members with just enough work to get them into this needs to be gone into in respect of that piece of place to do some work. On that note, I support the legislation. We on this side of the chamber will hold government business program. It is time to get on with our breath in anticipation that our desire will come to business. fruition. Mr NARDELLA (Melton) — Again I rise to I will finish by making some comments following on oppose the government business program. I from what the Leader of the House said regarding this acknowledge the decision of the Leader of the House to being a manageable program. It certainly is a very pick up something that has occurred in the upper house manageable program, and we were expecting a bit more for quite a while, and that is the take-note motion of a program from the government. On my counting debate on the budget papers. That is good. It has taken about seven bills are backed up on the notice paper. I two and a half years to get to this stage. It is been the think four or five bills were introduced today and practice for a while in the upper house, and now we are goodness knows how many more may come tomorrow slowly getting there. I urge the Leader of the House to and the next day. We are seeing that once again, as we work through the process in her own party to get to a head towards the end of the parliamentary session, the stage where the next quantum leap is a situation where government has struggled to manage its legislative debate is not stifled in this house because we are program. Unfortunately that is a trail that the Leader of listening to second-reading speeches, which does not the House has not been able to blaze; she has not been occur in the Legislative Council. In the Legislative able to change that practice of the government, and we Council, as in a number of other jurisdictions, are looking at a quite heavy workload in the last week second-reading speeches are tabled. of these parliamentary sittings, which is unfortunate. The SPEAKER — Order! I think the member is Ms Asher interjected. getting off the point of debating the motion before the house. What the member is debating is what he would Ms ALLAN — The Leader of the House is saying like to see happen, and it may in fact happen, but it does we should not assume that, which would also be not really relate to what is on the government business unfortunate because there are bills sitting on the notice program. I ask the member to come back to debating paper that probably need to be debated and put through the government business program. this Parliament. Once again the government cannot manage its own program, and the opposition will not be Mr NARDELLA — Yes, Speaker, and the supporting it this week. government business program has aspects within it of second-reading speeches being given when the debate Mr TILLEY (Benambra) — I rise in support of the should be on the bills; and that is what we are opposing government business program. It is certainly more than about the government business program. We have done manageable. I heard the member for Bendigo East that consistently, and I have done that consistently. If

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we look at other jurisdictions, we can see how they In supporting the program I will make a couple of increase the amount of time for debate on bills. comments. To the member for Bendigo East I state for the record that The Nationals will always support I noticed that in her contribution the honourable discussions on the operation of the house. We know member for Bendigo East said that it may also give that some things need to be changed, and we are happy time for a bill to go into a consideration-in-detail stage. to be involved in those discussions. In relation to An important bill that is on the government business comments about the size of the government business program in relation to taxi reform is being stifled program, it seems that opposition members are never because of the ongoing requirement that second-reading happy, but that is their lot in life. When there are not speeches be read by ministers in this house. The time enough bills on the notice paper we have comments, for debate is limited, and the consideration-in-detail but when there are plenty of bills on the notice paper stage is important. Many of us have been involved in we still have comments. As I said, it is their lot in life to the consideration-in-detail stage in this house, but always be on the back foot and be negative. certainly some honourable members, particularly members who have come to this place since 2010, have To the member for Melton I say that like my not been involved in the consideration-in-detail stage, counterpart the Liberal Party Whip I notice from time and that is not a good thing for democracy. to time that the speaking list of opposition members is exhausted and if time for debate is so precious, we We oppose the government business program. It is time expect opposition members to debate bills. I look to get rid of the practice in this place of having forward to that not happening in the future. second-reading speeches read by ministers. It is time that we have longer debates on the bills before the With that, it is time we get on with our parliamentary house, and that is why again today we oppose the sitting week. I support the motion on the government government business program. business program.

Mr CRISP (Mildura) — I rise to support the Mr McGUIRE (Broadmeadows) — Time is all we government business program on behalf of The have in this place. It is precious and it is highly Nationals. We have a number of bills to complete this contested, so what we really need is to maximise it, use week. There is the Appropriation (2013–2014) Bill it more efficiently and make it more effective. My 2013, on which many members are looking to make a argument is about the second-reading speeches; it is a contribution. I welcome the take-note motion that will simple reform that should be made — that ministers’ provide that those who will not get that opportunity this speeches be tabled. The Leader of the Government is week will have it during the next sitting week, while the also the Minister for Innovation, Services and Small bill is being debated in the upper house. The Business, and today she has offered the concept of an Appropriation (Parliament 2013–2014) Bill 2013 is also innovation from the upper house which we will pick up, part of the budget package, and it also needs to be but I encourage her to be more innovative and to debated this week. actually look at a simple proposition that would be practical, effective, efficient and go to all the values that Similarly with the State Tax Laws Amendment (Budget members on both sides of the house want to see and and Other Measures) Bill 2013, a number of aspects of that should be implemented. It is simple; there should that bill are of particular interest to country people, be no fuss and no fight over this matter, which is a especially around the Duties Act 2000, in relation to practical proposition. It is common sense. I put this on first home buyers, young farmers, land-holder the agenda. provisions and motor vehicle duty, and also around the amendments to the Fire Services Property Levy Act Honourable members interjecting. 2012, which clarify how the levy is assessed. These are big-ticket items for country people. Mr McGUIRE — Life is an evolution, life is about progress and innovation, and that is what we need to The Transport Legislation Amendment (Foundation do — it is time to evolve. Let us move on and get to the Taxi and Hire Car Reforms) Bill 2013 will also be point, because here is what we could be doing: we debated, as will the Borrowing and Investment Powers could be looking at other big issues of moment and Amendment Bill 2013, which will tidy up provisions in debating them within the Parliament as well. At the relation to the State Electricity Commission of Victoria moment there is nothing more important to my and its ability to borrow money, which mostly has to do electorate of Broadmeadows than what has happened with managing a particular contract, and of course the with the Ford motor factory and what has gone on there Melbourne Water Corporation’s borrowing limits. with the $9 million out of appropriation. We should be

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looking at that. Is that the appropriate amount? Should Dixon, Mr Sykes, Dr it be more? Is Broadmeadows going to get dudded Fyffe, Mrs Thompson, Mr Gidley, Mr Tilley, Mr again or are we going to be taken care of? How do we Hodgett, Mr Victoria, Ms get the balance with Geelong? Katos, Mr Wakeling, Mr Kotsiras, Mr Walsh, Mr The SPEAKER — Order! The member for McCurdy, Mr Watt, Mr Broadmeadows should get back to debating the motion McIntosh, Mr Weller, Mr before the house, not the Appropriation (2013–2014) McLeish, Ms Wells, Mr Miller, Ms Wooldridge, Ms Bill 2013, which will be before the house at some stage Morris, Mr Wreford, Ms during this week, if we can get past this motion. Mulder, Mr

Mr McGUIRE — It goes to the point that it is all Noes, 42 about how we manage our time, what we see as the Allan, Ms Howard, Mr high priorities and how we do that, so I am putting this Andrews, Mr Hutchins, Ms Barker, Ms Kairouz, Ms up in a positive way. I put it to the house that these are Beattie, Ms Kanis, Ms issues that we should have the flexibility to debate Brooks, Mr Knight, Ms within this chamber because of their significance. This Campbell, Ms Languiller, Mr is about globalisation. It is about how we take care of Carbines, Mr Lim, Mr local industries and local communities. My point is that Carroll, Mr McGuire, Mr D’Ambrosio, Ms Madden, Mr there is an opportunity cost by continuing this rote Donnellan, Mr Merlino, Mr proposition of speakers just going through the bills and Duncan, Ms Nardella, Mr the second-reading speeches. I am also happy to Edwards, Ms Neville, Ms support more time for debate on the taxi industry Eren, Mr Noonan, Mr Foley, Mr Pakula, Mr reform that is before the house. This is contentious for a Garrett, Ms Pallas, Mr range of different stakeholders, and it will be another Graley, Ms Pandazopoulos, Mr opportunity cost for this house if we are not able to Green, Ms Perera, Mr address it. Halfpenny, Ms Scott, Mr Helper, Mr Thomson, Ms With a new Leader of the House — no reflection on the Hennessy, Ms Trezise, Mr Herbert, Mr Wynne, Mr predecessor, of course — this is an opportunity, particularly if she comes from the frame of reference of Motion agreed to. innovation, and I would like to encourage that. These are simple propositions that we should be able to get to. MEMBERS STATEMENTS I am also encouraged that the member who spoke on behalf of The Nationals says he is open to innovation as 43BTourism: business events well. Here we have a joint ticket. Here is tripartisanship. We are looking for innovation. There it Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and is. Here is where we come together with a united Small Business) — I wish to advise the house, as I have approach. This is a simple thing that should be done. done on previous occasions, how important business We all know it is the right thing to do. I therefore put to events are to tourism in the state of Victoria. They the Leader of the House, the government and the lead generate significant economic benefits, assist with job speaker on behalf of The Nationals: can we just get this creation, spark research in new technology, drive done from now on so we no longer have to have a fuss regional dispersal and encourage repeat visitation. and a fight over these issues? Our medical profession has been most active in House divided on motion: securing business conventions for Victoria, and I thank it for that. I am pleased to announce that Melbourne has Ayes, 43 recently secured two major medical conferences. The Angus, Mr Napthine, Dr first is the 8th Asia-Pacific Heart Rhythm Society Asher, Ms Newton-Brown, Mr scientific session for 2015 and the second is the Baillieu, Mr Northe, Mr International Congress on Systemic Lupus Battin, Mr O’Brien, Mr Erythematosus — otherwise called SLE — for 2017. Bauer, Mrs Powell, Mrs Blackwood, Mr Ryall, Ms Combined, these two business events alone will Bull, Mr Ryan, Mr generate around $10.5 million for the state economy Burgess, Mr Shaw, Mr and will attract 2600 delegates. Clark, Mr Smith, Mr R. Crisp, Mr Southwick, Mr

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1984 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 11 June 2013

Since December 2010 the Melbourne Convention services officers (PSOs), this time to the Burnley and Bureau has secured 56 international association Narre Warren railway stations. This is part of the meetings, which are estimated to attract more than coalition government’s commitment to provide 77 000 delegates and are forecast to generate around 940 PSOs on railway stations across Melbourne and $370 million of economic impact for the state of regional centres. Victoria. I would like to thank the Melbourne Convention Bureau for its work and draw members’ On Monday, 2 June, together with local MLC Inga attention to a recent Ernst & Young survey which Peulich, a member for South Eastern Metropolitan showed that business events are worth $1.2 billion Region, Amanda Stapleton, Mick Moreland, Susan overall per annum to the Victorian economy. I urge all Serey, Gary Rowe, Louise Berkelmans and Victoria members to support these events. Police assistant commissioner Chris O’Neil, I had the pleasure of welcoming four PSOs who were

44BChandler Park Primary School: rebuilding undergoing induction at the Narre Warren railway station. Mr PAKULA (Lyndhurst) — Last week I had the privilege of visiting Chandler Park Primary School in The PSOs we met at Narre Warren were Joenna Keysborough and was shown great hospitality by the Nanfra, Christos Tsiros, Cameron Ryan and Jason principal, Mr Peter Paul. Mr Paul took me through the Nash. Three of these PSOs live in the local area, and history of the proposed merger between Chandler Park the fourth lived in the area until recently. PSOs Primary School and Maralinga Primary School, which formally commenced duties at both the Burnley and is less than 1 kilometre down the road. It is a merger Narre Warren railway stations on Tuesday, 3 June 2013 that the entire school community supports. It was and will be on duty at these rail stations from 6.00 p.m. committed to under the previous government and is until last train seven days a week, 365 days a year. This contingent on a rebuild of Chandler Park Primary deployment continues the coalition government’s School. commitment to make travel on the public transport system safer. It is pleasing to note that there are now The bulk of the rebuild occurred under the previous 376 PSOs deployed at 52 stations, targeting crime, government, save for one classroom block which is in a violence and antisocial behaviour. poor state of repair. Upon the change of government the rebuild ceased and has not recommenced. This means 46BLions Club of Essendon: 60th anniversary the merger cannot continue and the students at Maralinga continue to operate with vastly inferior Mr MADDEN (Essendon) — Congratulations to facilities. Students have to be bussed to the Chandler the Lions Club of Essendon, which celebrated its Park campus at heavy expense to the school. The entire chapter’s 60th anniversary with a dinner held at the merger may be in jeopardy. Moonee Ponds Bowling Club on 6 May. Congratulations to Kevin Plant and his team. A great When the principal raised this matter with the Minister night was had by all. for Education he was told the incoming government had its own series of commitments. That is fair enough, 47BEssendon Croquet Club: centenary but the government claims that those commitments have now largely been fulfilled. The works being Mr MADDEN — The Essendon Croquet Club proposed by Chandler Park Primary School can be celebrated its centenary on Saturday, 2 March, with a carried out at ultimately no or low cost to the wonderful afternoon tea and a gymkhana held at the department given the opportunities presented by the club. My congratulations to Dot Dickson and all the merger. There is no excuse for further delay. There is members. I make special mention of the release of the no excuse for the Keysborough community not to have club’s history, written by Dot Dickson. a great primary school campus. It is mostly done. I urge the government not to put the entire project in jeopardy 48BMaribyrnong River: renaming centenary by further delay and inaction. Mr MADDEN — On Sunday, 17 March, RIV CEL committee organised a celebration of the centenary of 45BProtective services officers: Burnley and Narre the renaming of Saltwater River as the Maribyrnong Warren railway stations River. There was a re-enactment and tree planting and a Mr WELLS (Minister for Police and Emergency commemorative plaque was unveiled at Maribyrnong Services) — It is with great pleasure that I announce to Park. I commend the committee members Elaine the house the deployment of even more protective Brogan, Eve Park and Peter Somerville, OAM.

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49BEssendon Rowing Club: presentation night $100 000 of state government funds. The work consisted of an 11-kilometre section of the trail between Mr MADDEN — Essendon Rowing Club wrapped Cowwarr and Tinamba being upgraded, which up another successful rowing season with a great completes a 55-kilometre section between Stratford and turnout at its presentation night on Saturday, 18 May, at Glengarry. Rail trails are very popular in my electorate, the Essendon Rowing Club social rooms. and this will provide great tourism opportunities. Congratulations to president Mark Dwyer, vice-presidents Glenn Bottrell and John Haag, and 54BMetung Food and Wine Festival secretary Tracey Buchanan-Black. Mr BULL — The Metung Food and Wine Festival

50BAberfeldie Football Club: Anzac Day match was held last weekend on the Metung village green with a massive crowd in attendance. Well done to all Mr MADDEN — Aberfeldie Football Club’s organisers and stallholders. Anzac Day match against Avondale Heights was a great event, with the ode For the Fallen recited by 55BSchools: Kinglake bushfire support Trevor Sinclair. My congratulations to all of the club for another wonderful and inspiring event and Ms ALLAN (Bendigo East) — Last week I was in particularly the president of the senior football club, Kinglake meeting with a number of principals from John Larkin. A great day was had by all. bushfire-affected schools and youth workers from Congratulations to all those celebrations across the across the Kinglake area. These communities continue Essendon electorate. to face many challenges, particularly the schools and the work they do in supporting their students and the

51BGippsland East electorate: infrastructure wider school community. The principals and staff do funding wonderful work in dealing with a whole range of welfare and post-traumatic stress issues for not just the Mr BULL (Gippsland East) — Last Friday this students but also for their parents and families, the staff government announced $1.7 million towards the East and indeed many of the principals themselves, who Bairnsdale infrastructure enhancement project, which were affected quite badly by the Black Saturday fires in will allow for significant expansion of Patties Foods 2009. They are going through an unfortunate and for further business and residential development in experience at the moment because funding for a the area. The project now awaits federal government number of programs that have been in place since the funding, and I would urge our federal counterparts to fires occurred is starting to wind down or has ceased get behind this project and support what is a very altogether, yet the principals have not been able to important infrastructure development for Bairnsdale make any progress with the government in gaining and East Gippsland as a whole. support for additional funding or for programs to continue. They have been trying to get the government

52BMaffra Cheese Company: expansion to take notice and act, sadly with no luck.

Mr BULL — I was delighted to join Maffra Cheese The schools have also reported that they were affected representatives Ferial Zekiman and Sam Riggall and by the broader cuts to the education department. They the Deputy Premier recently to officially announce have been forced to raise funds from the community $150 000 in state funding towards a $380 000 through the Smouldering Stump campaign, and this is a expansion of the Maffra Cheese facility at Tinamba. community that should not have had to dip into its own The expansion will create 10 new full-time equivalent pocket. They should not be doing this alone. Their case positions, providing employment opportunities for should not have to be proven time and again, as they residents in nearby towns such as Heyfield, Maffra, told me they are made to do by the government and Tinamba, Boisdale and Stratford. This is another great government officials. This is a deeply traumatised and example of our government investing in a great affected community. It is time the government company in regional and rural Victoria. responded and acted to ensure that schools and communities in bushfire-affected areas do not have to 53BGippsland Plains rail trail: upgrade run around and find the support that is greatly needed. Mr BULL — I also had the pleasure of joining the Deputy Premier and members of the Heyfield community to open an upgraded section of the Gippsland Plains rail trail, a $135 000 project with

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56BMornington Peninsula Regional Gallery: And what is this government’s response? It denies there Archibald Prize exhibition is a problem and stalls enterprise bargaining agreement (EBA) negotiations as much as possible, obviously Mr MORRIS (Mornington) — On Friday evening I using the same template it had for the nurses and had the great pleasure of attending the opening night of teachers. Where I come from that is not fixing the the 2013 Archibald Prize Victorian season at the problem but adding to it. Ignoring unfilled shifts, Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery. The exhibition ignoring ramping of ambulances at emergency opened to the public on 8 June and continues until departments and ignoring the stress of our ambulance 7 July. The Archibald is Australia’s premier portraiture officers is not a solution. Ambulance response times are prize, currently valued at $75 000. Established in 1921 going backwards, and that puts Victorian lives at risk. it features portraits ‘preferentially of some man or In an emergency every single second counts. Every woman distinguished in art, letters, science or politics, second spent waiting for an ambulance to travel from painted by any resident in Australasia’. The exhibition Beaufort to Ballarat is critical. This government needs includes the Archibald winner, Del Kathryn Barton’s to stop ignoring and start listening. It must resolve the portrait of Hugo Weaving; the Packing Room Prize, a EBA and appropriately resource our hardworking portrait of Tara Moss by Matthew Lynn; and the ambulance officers and paramedics, and it must do it People’s Choice Award, a portrait of Asher Keddie by now. her partner, Vincent Fantauzzo.

59BSt Paul’s East Bentleigh Football Club: That Mornington is hosting an exhibition of this stature fundraiser is a great tribute to the director, Jane Alexander, and to the gallery staff. It is also a tribute to the men who had Ms MILLER (Bentleigh) — I recently attended the the vision to establish the gallery when Mornington was St Paul’s East Bentleigh Football Club charity lunch. a much smaller place: Tom Hast, Vin Kennedy, David This year’s annual event was a fundraiser for Zaidee’s Collings and the founding director, Alan McCulloch, Rainbow Foundation. Founded by Kim and Allan one of Australia’s foremost art critics. The hosting of Turner, the organisation raises awareness of organ and the Archibald exhibition is a great coup for tissue donation. My thanks go to Robyn and Wayne Mornington. Manders and all at St Paul’s football club for arranging this community event.

57BPeninsula Link: shared pathway

60BSt Peters Junior Football Club: cybersafety Mr MORRIS — On another matter, the Minister initiative for Roads last week officiated at the opening of the Peninsula Link shared pathway at Moorooduc railway Ms MILLER — St Peters Junior Football Club station. The new path provides a connection from recently invited me to attend a cybersafety presentation Mount Eliza regional park via a 3-metre wide by Susan McLean from Cyber Safety Solutions. Players 25-kilometre trail to Patterson Lakes and is a substantial and their families were invited to this informative addition to the peninsula’s bike trails. Whether it is art session to discuss the risks, challenges and benefits of or sport, the peninsula has got it covered. engaging with others online. I congratulate Mark Dance, Steve lngham and Chris Harrington on this 58BAmbulance Victoria: performance fantastic initiative. I was impressed by the discussions on the night and was pleased to be in attendance to Ms KNIGHT (Ballarat West) — On 25 March this support the future leaders of the Bentleigh community. year Mrs James from Wendouree was out doing her shopping with her husband. She suddenly felt unwell 61BBentleigh Secondary College: debutante ball and, on the advice of her doctor, called an ambulance. Mrs James then waited over an hour for an ambulance Ms MILLER — Congratulations to Mrs Barbara to arrive. The reason: the closest available ambulance Duncan-Sandford for preparing students at Bentleigh was in Beaufort. There were no ambulances available Secondary College to make their debut. Bentleigh in Ballarat. This is not an isolated incident, rather just Secondary College students, surrounded by their family one example of an ambulance service in crisis. It is not and friends, were presented to me at their recent just the service that is in crisis; our ambulance officers debutante ball. It was a wonderful night of celebration, and paramedics are under increasing pressure. Their and I thank year 10 students Bailee Nisbett and Mason work is becoming more complex while demand is Dent for their kind invitation. An enjoyable night was increasing. Turnover of staff has never been higher and had by all. I congratulate all who were in attendance for morale has never been lower. participating in the spirit of the evening.

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James Elliott I have spent my life making sure my son is okay. If I hadn’t I don’t know where he would be today … I have been a widow Ms MILLER — Members of the Bentleigh for 17 years and believe me it’s been a long and stressful time. community are mourning the loss of James Elliott. An incredible number of people recently attended I urge the Napthine government to show some St Peter’s parish church for his funeral and heard about compassion and understanding for the difficulties faced James’s many talents, including karate, fishing and by carers and the disabled in these supported-care adventure sports. My sincere condolences go to James’s situations. We do not want our disabled Victorians family and friends. condemned — —

Australian Red Cross: Caulfield blood bank The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member’s time has expired. Ms MILLER — Recently I was delighted to attend the Caulfield blood bank to see Yehuda Kaplan from Hattah Lakes: environmental flows project Gift of Life Australia present a certificate of appreciation to Judith McMiIlan of the Australian Red Mr CRISP (Mildura) — The Hattah project to Cross blood service. Yehuda and Judith have created a irrigate thousands of hectares of red gums was a finalist partnership between their respective organisations to in the World Environment Day awards held recently in save lives. It was a privilege to hear from a donor Melbourne. The Hattah project, in which the Mallee whose generosity was assisting an overseas patient in Catchment Management Authority is a partner, was their fight for life. I encouraged families in the runner-up. This environmental water-saving project Bentleigh electorate to consider contacting the Red will allow the Hattah Lakes National Park to be Cross blood service to assist with its Queen’s Birthday irrigated without the need for huge volumes of weekend campaign. transported water. The project provides a clever use of the existing lake and creek system with engineering The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The structures to mimic large-scale floods. Well done to all member’s time has expired. those involved, particularly the catchment management authority, which has been the public face of this project. Disability services: supported accommodation The Hattah project is the forerunner of a much larger fees proposal for the Lindsay River system. The Lindsay River is an anabranch of the Murray River between Ms HUTCHINS (Keilor) — In this year’s budget Mildura and the South Australian border and lends the Napthine government dramatically increased fees itself to an engineering irrigation solution that will save paid by people with a disability who live in state-run huge amounts of transport water, thus preserving the residential units. This increase targets some of the most food production capacity of the basin. vulnerable people in this state. Residents have been notified that their fees for board and lodging are set to Samoan Independence Day rise by 50 per cent to approximately $17 500 annually. This equates to 75 per cent of the disability support Mr CRISP — I was invited to celebrations to mark pension. The fee hike will make supported the 51st anniversary of Samoa’s independence from accommodation unaffordable for many residents in my New Zealand. A night of South Sea islander hospitality, electorate. One resident, Ms Liz Sibbald, wrote to me food and culture, which took the form of singing and on behalf of her son who lives in supported care. Her dancing, was attended by over 100 Samoans and other letter says: Pacific Islanders from north-western Victoria. The Pacific Islanders have established a strong community When it comes to the pension there is not much left after they in my electorate and are active participants in our pay for board and lodgings. Fees for the centres keep going up. My son is a bad epileptic, and he is up for a few tablets community. plus webster packs that they have to be put in. He wears glasses, dental and everything else. By the time he has Bill Sauer finished there is nothing left. Mr CRISP — On another matter, Bill Sauer, There is nothing left of his pay. The letter also says: teacher, sports commentator and master of ceremonies Three quarters of these clients have no-one behind them as extraordinaire, was awarded a Medal of the Order of they have all walked off and left them because everything is Australia in the Queen’s Birthday honours. in the too-hard basket. Congratulations to Mr Sauer for over 25 years of

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dedicated community service. It is a fitting award that 70BBlackburn Primary School: funding honours his enormous contribution to Mildura. Ms RYALL — I was pleased to join the Premier in

68BCountry Fire Authority: Dandenong complex announcing funding of $5.2 million to rebuild the majority of Blackburn Primary School, replacing the Mr PANDAZOPOULOS (Dandenong) — I am old worn-out and run-down teaching, resources and looking forward to next Wednesday, 25 June, as one of administration areas with new state-of-the-art facilities. many people who have been invited to see the Minister This is the fulfilment of an election commitment to the for Police and Emergency Services turn the sod for the school, and I am grateful to the principal and teachers, new Country Fire Authority (CFA) southern the school council president, Paul Hart, and members of metropolitan regional headquarters and emergency the school council and school community for their management complex and the new Dandenong fire continued advocacy and desire to see that the facilities station at a different site. This is a project that was match the excellent culture and learning that occurs in funded in the last term of the Labor government, with Blackburn Primary School. over $5 million allocated to build a new Dandenong fire station. The project recognises the changing needs of a 71BBox Hill to Ringwood: shared pathway revitalised Dandenong, with its new high-rise buildings, office blocks, apartments et cetera. There is a need for a Ms RYALL — I am thrilled to see in the 2013–14 variety of different types of firefighting appliances to budget funding for the Box Hill–Ringwood shared bike provide effective firefighting services, particularly path. In 2010 the Whitehorse Cyclists were keen given the complex industrial area. advocates of the project, and they did not need to convince me of the merits of this project. It is very The project was caught up in the bureaucracy following exciting to know that my local community will benefit the 2009 bushfires, the subsequent 2009 Victorian from the area designated for walking and bike riding, Bushfires Royal Commission and the role of regional an area that has many schools within 1 kilometre, that response centres. I am glad the new minister has finally people can use to commute or to head out to the shops resolved these issues and that the project can proceed. It or just for health and recreation purposes. I thank the has been over seven years since this work was started. I Whitehorse Cyclists for their continued advocacy to see commend the CFA on its ongoing work and this project come to fruition. particularly the regional manager, Peter Schmidt, who has worked very hard through the process of finally 72BRotary Club of Keilor East: Pride of achieving not only a new modern state-of-the-art fire Workmanship Awards station for Dandenong but also recognition of the need for a more strategic regional headquarters centre, Mr CARROLL (Niddrie) — On 20 May I had the heeding the lessons learnt from the bushfires royal pleasure of attending the Rotary Club of Keilor East’s commission. annual vocational awards night, the Pride of Workmanship Awards. The objective of the awards is

69BNewHope Community Care: volunteers to honour those people, irrespective of age, gender or vocation, who show a distinct quality in their approach, Ms RYALL (Mitcham) — I was delighted to attend attitude and dedication to their vocation. on 6 June the NewHope Community Care thankyou evening to volunteers. Director Monique ten Hoopen I take this opportunity to extend my sincere spoke of the amazing work done in our local congratulations to all three awardees: Natasha Boyd of community through the organisation’s programs. the Book Bonding Independent Bookstore located in NewHope Community Care provides counselling, Keilor Road, Niddrie, and also now in Gisborne; advocacy, housing and courses for life. It will also soon Rudolf Arends of the 15th Essendon Sea Scouts, who be commencing a debt centre to assist those in the has committed 35 years of his life to the scouting community who are struggling financially because of community; and well-known and respected Strathmore debts that hold them back. I commend the work veterinarian Murray Sykes, who goes above and undertaken by NewHope Community Care and all its beyond providing normal service levels for members of fabulous staff, volunteers and donors, who make sure our local community and their pets. this important work continues to meet the needs of our community. I also congratulate John Walsh on receiving the Rotary Paul Harris (Sapphire) Award, the highest individual award offered by Rotary, in recognition of excellence in service to Rotary and the community. John Walsh was

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a Paul Harris Fellow prior to receiving the award, and Another issue that arose was planned burning, which I has a long history with Rotary, serving as the president promised I would raise with the Minister for of the Rotary Club of Keilor East from 1996 to 1997 Environment and Climate Change, and I will do that for and then as assistant district governor for the Rotary them. district from 1999 to 2001.

74BMen’s sheds: Berwick John is also a big part of the local community. He has served as president of the Rosehill Secondary College Mr BATTIN — I congratulate the people at the school council since 1989 and has been president of Berwick men’s shed, whose members do a great job Holloway Aged Care Services since 2002. John was a under the leadership of John Byron. The Berwick scout leader for 40 years and a founder of the East men’s shed has a strong committee and has been a Keilor Leisure Centre, where he volunteered as a fantastic organisation in Berwick. It supports swimming teacher for 20 years. His new award comes beyondblue’s current TV campaign called Man after being named the City of Moonee Valley’s citizen Therapy, which I recommend that everybody look at, of the year in 2007. I want to congratulate John on his with the new commercials to ensure men have an many achievements and thank him for his work in our opportunity to speak about their health issues. I think community over the last 50 years and, we hope, for this is a fantastic campaign with men’s sheds and a very many more years to come. important initiative for Victoria.

Finally, a big thankyou to vocational director, Mandy 75BRotary Club of Eltham: 40th anniversary Glassey, for all her hard work in organising the Pride of Workmanship awards. Mr HERBERT (Eltham) — I rise to congratulate the Rotary Club of Eltham on its 40th anniversary. As The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The is normal for Eltham Rotary, club members put on a member’s time has expired. magnificent evening to recognise and celebrate their substantial achievements over the last 40 years. It has

73BCountry Fire Authority: Macclesfield brigade been 40 years of productive work within our local community and on international projects assisting more Mr BATTIN (Gembrook) — I rise to talk about the unfortunate nations around the world. Country Fire Authority (CFA) Macclesfield brigade. The Macclesfield brigade, with its captain, Sharon In my opinion Eltham Rotary is by far the best Rotary Merrit, is a fantastic CFA within my electorate. I had club in Australia. As well as running the annual Eltham the pleasure this week of attending a meeting at the Festival, the Rotary Club of Eltham supports many brigade, where we had a chat about some of the issues local projects. Recently the club was instrumental in that are going on in the area. Macclesfield is located in building pergolas as part of the former Labor an area of high fire danger, so it is important that the government’s and Nillumbik council’s funding of a brigade prepares now. The brigade members are sensational sensory playground in Eltham South. The starting to get their plans in place for the next fire club’s annual Pride of Workmanship Awards are season and starting to get the message out into the coming up on 8 August, and I look forward to joining community of what they want to do to make sure that the members in recognising the many innovative and houses are prepared, street sides are prepared and successful local businesses in our community. everybody is ready to roll and has a plan in place come the fire season. Internationally Rotary undertakes many projects, including the terrific Aquabox program, which enables The Macclesfield brigade members raised an issue that up to 2000 litres of polluted water to be treated quickly I promised to follow up, and I will follow up for them, and cheaply, greatly reducing disease, illness and death in relation to internet connectivity. They have a in many poorer countries. problem with internet connection. It has been an ongoing problem for a long time, and I will be working The club also supports other great causes. Recently with them to overcome it. We will be speaking to there was a huge contingent of Eltham Rotary at the Telstra. At the moment the connection goes to about Bollywood Bedazzled Charity Ball in support of 2 kilometres down the road, so we have committed to Maskaan, a charity which raises funds to help children work through that problem with Telstra and see what of the slums of Bhopal in India get an education. we can do to help out the Macclesfield brigade Finally I would like to congratulate the — — members. The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member’s time has expired.

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76BDartmouth Cup Fishing Classic 81BHome and community care: eastern European community Dr SYKES (Benalla) — It was a great Queen’s Birthday weekend in north-east Victoria. On Friday the Mr PERERA (Cranbourne) — Recently, together member for Benambra and I joined hundreds of fishers with the Leader of the Opposition, I had the honour of at the Dartmouth Cup Fishing Classic. Well done to hosting an eastern European community forum. The John Scales and his team for organising such a great community forum was well received and subsequently event. well attended. Eastern European community leaders from inner and outer suburbs of Victoria took part in 77BKing Valley: art show this very effective forum. Each leader had the opportunity to raise matters that dearly affect their Dr SYKES — On Friday night, along with communities. Many topics were discussed on the 200 other guests, I attended the King Valley art show. evening. The topics included the support of culturally The art show was part of King Valley’s Fit For a King specific senior citizens who rely on care — that is, care weekend, at which thousands of visitors enjoyed supported by home and community care (HACC) excellent local wine and food. funding. After much discussion I was advised that the Napthine government has contacted councils stating 78BVictorian Truck Drivers Memorial that the state government’s contribution towards HACC Dr SYKES — On Saturday I attended a funding will decrease in the next financial year. commemoration service at the Victorian Truck Drivers Much-needed programs supported by HACC funding Memorial at Alexandra. This event commemorates include domestic assistance; personal care; nursing, truck drivers who have lost their lives through various including community nursing and home nursing; allied causes; it was attended by over 100 people. Well done health services such as physiotherapy, podiatry, to organiser Bette Phillips and her team and to Andrew dietetics et cetera; food services, including meals on Embling and his team, who conducted yet another wheels and centre-based meals; planned activity highly successful truck and ute show. groups; property maintenance; and respite services. For example, Frankston City Council was duly notified by 79BMount Buller: snow season opening the government that the council will now have to find Dr SYKES — On Saturday the Minister for an additional $40 000 to keep up with the care that the Environment and Climate Change opened the snow council delivers to the elderly in its municipality, while season at Mount Buller. The event brought together the government is supporting the so-called independent business operators, skiers and members of the resort member for Frankston, who is sitting on his hands. This management board. A spectacular fireworks display is cost shifting at its worst on the part of this state capped off a great start to the snow season. government. Another issue raised was building — —

80BMount Hotham and Dinner Plain: snow season The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The opening member’s time has expired.

Dr SYKES — On Sunday the Mount Hotham snow 82BRotary Club of Chelsea: art show season was opened by the member for Kew. The event brought together business operators, skiers and Mrs BAUER (Carrum) — On the Friday evening of members of the resort’s management board, all of the Queen’s Birthday weekend I enjoyed attending the whom were extremely grateful to the Department of Chelsea Rotary Art Show. Congratulations to the Sustainability and Environment, VicRoads and committee of the Rotary club. The event was the club’s contractors for getting the Great Alpine Road open after 38th annual art show, and the club has been supporting the bushfires. I opened the snow season at Dinner Plain, local charities within our community for 38 years. and there was also great appreciation there of the 83BKananook Primary School: member visit opening of the Great Alpine Road. My message is clear: the north-east is open for business. Come along Mrs BAUER — On Wednesday, 5 June, I visited and enjoy! Kananook Primary School to meet with the principal, Rob Kinniburgh; school council president, Vera Roberts; and parents and friends group president, Nicki Fidge. We toured the school, had a look at the lovely junior kitchen and discussed the school’s requirements

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and the lack of investment that had occurred under the Unfortunately these are not the only events recent with trains Labor government. regularly being late in each direction. It is becoming noticeable that trains are running later and later with the new timetable of 28 April, actually making things worse, not 84BMordialloc Chelsea VIEW Club better. What is also noticeable is the fact trains are being slowed down to try and achieve timetable, but are failing at Mrs BAUER — Recently I attended a meeting of many junctures. the Mordialloc Chelsea VIEW Club at the Patterson River Country Club. The club was celebrating 22 years Clearly this email and other feedback I have received of supporting Australian children in need. It was a over the last year indicate the great distress this issue terrific effort by the VIEW club committee and by has caused to travellers on the Ballarat and Bendigo president Margaret Hayes, who is a well-loved member lines within my electorate. It appears to demonstrate of our community. that, like the Kennett government, this government is not serious — — I was also pleased to see Kingston councillor Tamsin Bearsley, a member of the VIEW club and also one of The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The 20 000 ladies across Australia who are committed to member’s time has expired. providing educational opportunities for disadvantaged Australian children. 87BFord Australia: job losses Mr McGUIRE (Broadmeadows) — I call on the 85BBauer Kokoda Charity Challenge coalition not to dud the people of Broadmeadows over Mrs BAUER — On 4 June I attended Matt’s Place the distribution of funding following the demise of Ford at St Chad’s Anglican Church in Chelsea, which was and to increase its contribution to $30 million to match celebrating its fourth birthday, and we announced the the contribution of the commonwealth government and Bauer Kokoda Charity Challenge. As a volunteer Victorian Labor. I want to remind — — waitress once a month I enjoy having a chat with guests The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The time for and the wonderful group of volunteers. I am delighted statements by members has expired. the Bendigo Bank has kick-started the challenge with a $1000 donation. APPROPRIATION (PARLIAMENT The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The 2013–2014) BILL 2013 member’s time has expired.

21BSecond reading

86BRail: Ballarat services Debate resumed from 7 May; motion of Mr HOWARD (Ballarat East) — A major Mr O’BRIEN (Treasurer). achievement of the Bracks Labor government was the upgrading of rural and regional rail services across the Mr PALLAS (Tarneit) — It gives me pleasure to rise state that were allowed to become run down under the to speak on the Appropriation (Parliament 2013–2014) former Kennett government, with some services being Bill 2013. It is Labor’s intention not to oppose this bill. closed altogether. Under the regional fast rail project There are a number of issues that I wish to raise in the tracks and trains were upgraded to provide a faster, context of my address on this bill, specifically relating to more comfortable service for travellers, and service those omissions within the bill that concern the state provision was also increased. This saw patronage rise parliamentary Labor Party. Overall it is interesting to significantly as travellers viewed rail as a real and note the disparity in the allocations identified by the pleasurable alternative to taking the car. Sadly those Presiding Officers in terms of the evidence and the slides travellers have seen service provision deteriorate since they provided to the Public Accounts and Estimates the change of government. As an example, I refer to an Committee. The appropriation is identified in the email that I received less than a fortnight ago from a second-reading speech, and I would ask for some Ballarat rail traveller: clarification in terms of the disparity of the figures.

I am writing to you to seek your comment and assistance to In the 2013–14 budget the total appropriation identified the recent deterioration in rail service between Ballarat and by the Presiding Officers was $96.9 million, the special Melbourne. In the last three days rail services have been appropriation was $33.9 million and the total delayed by in excess of 30 minutes in each direction in the appropriation was $130.8 million. I am sure this is just morning and evening peaks. an issue of clarification, but if members look at the second-reading speech associated with the bill they will

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see that $112.218 million was identified for the Effectively we have a quite emphatic indication of the Parliament in respect of the 2013-14 financial year. I government’s intention to establish an all-party process ask for some clarity about how that appropriation is for costings and to reallocate resources from Treasury provided and at what magnitude it actually sits. to the Parliament to ensure that that happens. Whilst there has been some trepidation and indeed wavering in The other area that concerns me is that prior to the 2010 terms of the government’s position, perhaps the most state election members of the Liberal Party and The concerning thing is that we have seen no tangible Nationals made a promise quite emphatically to the evidence that there is any movement occurring. To this Victorian community to establish a body similar to the end I wrote to the Treasurer on 8 April and indicated commonwealth’s parliamentary budget office to the opposition’s concern, firstly, about the lack of examine the costings of political parties’ policies. clarity in terms of the limitation of the policy, and However, of course, there is no reference to any secondly, that if this process were not established in the allocation for such an office, and during the course of context of an all-party committee looking at the the budget estimates the President of the Legislative operation of the legislation that would constitute the Council confirmed that no funding allocation had been basis under which the parliamentary budget office provided for the establishment of the proposed would operate, it would have a grave impact on the parliamentary budget office, either from the executive ability of that body to be able to adequately perform its or the Parliament. In subsequent hearings the Minister function in a way where it had the confidence of those for Finance, who is at the table, confirmed that the parties to whom its resources were intended to be of government remains committed to introducing a benefit. parliamentary budget office in time for the upcoming state election. One cannot help but think that the longer the government delays this and fails to resource this The basic point I would like to make is that that time is Parliament in a way that is consistent with its now. Indeed the longer the government leaves it, the pre-election promises, the more likely it is that the less likely it is to be a process that will be effectively process will be at best shambolic and at worst utilised by all parties. I do recall the government’s predetermined to ensure that it has no credibility. Quite position on the parliamentary budget office was that it frankly, the government is bound to its election would be something that would be available and commitments. On our side we will find a process that applied to all parties. Indeed on 9 November 2010, will adequately and appropriately deal with costings in when in opposition, the member for Box Hill, who is terms of our policies going forward. We will not now Minister for Finance, produced a media release require our luncheon mates to put them together for us, that said the opposition was committed to ensuring that and we will do it in a way that we think best utilises the a truly independent process was put in place. The resources made available to us as an opposition. If the document states: government remains committed to its processes, well and good, and we would encourage it to continue that Treasury in Victoria is part of a public service that Labor has increasingly politicised and brought under the government’s process but in a way that is transparent and that gives thumb and it’s nonsense to claim they are truly independent the people of Victoria and those opposition parties that and able to treat all parties equally. seek to utilise the budget office the opportunity to have confidence in it and to ensure it is adequately resourced. …

In Canberra, all parties have agreed to scrap Treasury costing Mr Clark interjected. of election policies — Mr PALLAS — I hear the Attorney-General, who all parties — is at the table, say, ‘Are you going to use it or not?’. We would like to see what ‘it’ is. It may be like the and instead set up an independent parliamentary budget office. commonwealth parliamentary budget office — that is, the budget office that you said you believed there was That is what a coalition government will do, and that is what value in, and you drew comparisons in terms of the John Brumby should commit to do. desirability — — A coalition government will establish a parliamentary budget office within Parliament, overseen by the Auditor-General. The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! Through the Chair, not ‘you’. We will transfer to the parliamentary budget office the taxpayer-funded resources Labor is using exclusively to Mr PALLAS — The opposition obviously believes develop and cost its own election policies, and make those that if a parliamentary budget office is to be established, resources available for all parties and MPs.

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its resourcing and its financing will be critical. Might I government did not put in place effective legislative say in relation to the parliamentary budget office that prohibition on the transfer of information to the public the comparable equivalent that the government has sector and the conveyance of information about policies drawn favourable comparison with — the under development by opposition or third parties, that commonwealth arrangement — has recently been the would be a matter of grave concern. We have seen how subject of evidence to a Senate estimates committee. that was misapplied in many cases in the West Essentially, what we are seeing is a very substantial Australian elections, where effectively we saw Treasury fiscal commitment to ensure that the federal costings used to undermine an opposition’s capital parliamentary budget office operates. Indeed, in the works policy. Senate estimates a further $1.5 million in funding was provided to that body, which will see its staff expand to We say it is critically important that the government 34 people by the end of July. Mr Phil Bowen, who looks to these issues. We stand committed to working heads up that body, said he expected to see with the government in order to operate in a bipartisan 39 permanent staff this year giving his office what he sense to get this body up and running, but it must has described as a surge capacity to deal with extra happen this financial year. If it is left until too late, its costing requests ahead of the September federal credibility will be undermined. Do not think that the election. He has said that his office has also used public or the government will be able to stand up and private sector contractors costing just under $800 000, say, ‘You are not committing to a process that we have and that he believed his office would be expanded by a just sought to foist upon you’. I doubt that would have further 12 people ahead of the election. any credibility with the public at large. Once again I urge the government to get on with the job of engaging The point I make is this: this is a process that has been us and talking about the policy framework within which in place for quite some time. If you look at the New the parliamentary budget office would operate to assure South Wales equivalent since 2010 you see that these us that it is in fact, as they say, independent, properly processes have not been imposed upon the community, resourced and able to perform its work well in advance or indeed upon the Parliament or the political parties, at of the next election. the last minute. If you look at the level of confidence that these processes have therefore gained from the I now turn to the other provisions contained in the bill, political parties, you will see that in the federal context and in particular to the fact that the bill provides for as of 17 May there have been some 418 requests for substantial allocations across a number of areas. I take costings from political parties and 280 have been members to those provisions that relate specifically to completed. This will give the community some the allocations within various departments of the confidence. To cut a long story short, we support the Parliament, and most notably I draw to the attention of idea of the establishment of such a body, but not in the members that the bill seeks to ensure that staff and context of an open cheque. We want to have some salaries are adequately resourced. I also wish to involvement. I have been waiting for a response to my recognise the staff of this Parliament who perform an letter of 8 April to the Treasurer, but still it does not outstanding job, sometimes in what would appear to be come. Nonetheless we live in hope. a very hostile environment. If they find their jobs hostile, I assure them that they are only collateral The key thing here is that we need to start that damage in what is a robust democratic process. engagement quickly. If an allocation does not come until next year, and if a process does not start and is I also recognise that electorate officers do an imposed upon us at the last minute, members should outstanding job for all members of Parliament not be surprised if we do not participate in it. If the regardless of our political persuasion, ensuring that the government wants a serious process, it should get government and the opposition are able to perform their serious about it and involve us, and it should not worry tasks as local members efficiently. It is these men and for one moment if it thinks we might not be able to women who are at the front line, of course, and who adequately ensure that we have costed our policies assist us in interacting with our communities and in appropriately; that will be attended to, make no helping our constituents to access government services mistake. Nonetheless, there is merit in the idea of once where needed and to provide informational assistance and for all being in a position where we can have some on the operations of statutes that are legislated by this confidence that policies are appropriately configured. Parliament. We must ensure that we equip our The idea that the government put forward that it would electorate officers with the necessary resources to carry transfer Treasury staff into the parliamentary budget out their duties efficiently and effectively. It is therefore office has much to commend it, but a lot will depend on paramount that the government does not seek to reduce the legislative safeguards that are put in place. If the the carryover of electoral allowances from members’

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budgets. The Speaker of the Legislative Assembly basis or justification would be pre-emptive. There may highlighted that the Treasurer may move to cut any be a variety of reasons for electorate relocation. Indeed, such surplus carryover. Any such move would be quite in respect of my own electorate office some concerns harmful to the effective operations of members’ offices have been expressed about a variety of matters that around the state, and I am sure the Treasurer will might make my tenure at that location untenable for the recognise this when he reviews these figures in future Department of Parliamentary Services, not for me, and finances. in those circumstances that is just the sort of relocation that would occur in the normal course of events. But we It is also of critical importance that when looking at the have the redistribution coming on, and any suggestion operation of the budget we note that there are very that electorate offices would be changed from their substantial appropriations being made to the areas of current location to any other location would be the Parliament that face budgetary pressures. Those inappropriate. Indeed, it would be a pre-emptive and areas that need resourcing have been identified as the political act for that to occur. Legislative Council select committees, the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission and the audit Members should remain in their electorates until their office. These matters are critical to the effective electorates are not their electorates — until the people functioning of this Parliament. The oversight of Victoria have determined who should represent those committees need to be adequately resourced in order to electorates that have been properly constituted after the perform their functions effectively. election. That is an issue of grave concern to the opposition. If there were to be any relocations that We note that the overall rental allocation for electorate pre-empted the electorate boundary redistributions, offices has increased by an average of 6 per cent per there should be discussions with the appropriate parties, annum, with a 27 per cent increase in 2012–13. There is because the justification for such an action would need a 10 per cent increase in the utilities allocation for to be quite profound. electorate offices and the parliamentary precinct, and an increase for IT leasing and communications costs. I also take this opportunity to recognise the great work These matters remain an issue of concern to the that is being performed by staff of the Department of opposition. While I am sure there is a robust effort to Parliamentary Services, including the library, catering, ensure that all members are adequately provided with Hansard — they in particular, given my pronunciation quality information technology, I note that the member of certain things, have done an outstanding job — the for Frankston, in a contribution in this place, expressed clerks and all other assisting staff. Whilst this is his concern about the capacity for IT to be flexible and sometimes lost in the dour discussions associated with relevant to the needs of particular members. I will budget allocations and the highly politicised debate that continue to reinforce those concerns. accompanies the interchange of priorities and preferences, their work continues to be of the highest I see that the budget also contains an increased quality. I believe all members would join with me in allocation for security. Perhaps now it is an appropriate recognising what has been a tremendous job under the time to recognise that James Vongvixay is back at pressures of the restructuring that is occurring and the work. I am sure I have pronounced his name cuts being made through government efficiency incorrectly, and I apologise to him. James is one of dividends and other cost-reduction measures. many who perform an outstanding job. He has made a full recovery from his injuries sustained in that most I raise some significant concerns over the potential shocking attack upon him as he provided security in further strain placed on the services, with an estimated effect for all of us here. That attack is a demonstration $2 million expected to be cut in the 2013–14 budget that security is something you cannot take for granted. over the forward estimates, as well as $200 000 from The people who provide it to us should be recognised this year’s budget, as outlined in the 2013–14 Public and receive our highest esteem and regard, because they Accounts and Estimates Committee hearings. It is provide a critical function. important that these cuts have no impact on the functionality of the Parliament in holding the executive One area of concern I will note is the allocation for to account, which is the primary role of this Parliament electorate office relocations. The only concern I express under the Westminster system. in respect of those relocations is that one of the justifications for them is boundary redistributions. Just as important as holding the executive to account is Those boundary redistributions will not take effect until the core understanding of the separation of powers. I the next election, so any effort to relocate members of was concerned to hear evidence of Treasury Parliament from their existing electorate offices on that involvement and intervention — I would say

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inappropriate intervention — in the settlement of the honour its pre-election commitments and make sure the electorate officers enterprise bargaining agreement. It is parliamentary budget office is adequately resourced and one thing for Treasury to form a view about whether an provided for in an adequate time frame with the full agreement would sit comfortably with policy, but at the inclusion and involvement of opposition parties. end of the day the constitutional principle of the separation of powers — effectively meaning that the Mr MORRIS (Mornington) — It is a great pleasure executive, the judiciary and the Parliament are three to rise to support the Appropriation (Parliament separate arms that place checks and balances on each 2013–2014) Bill 2013. A cornerstone of our other — is a critically important one. democracy, indeed the foundation of our democracy, is a strong and independent Parliament, and this bill and I find it a matter of great concern that there is a capacity the appropriation that authorises it certainly ensure that. outside of the appropriation process for the itemised This bill provides some $112 million for the and managed relationship of the Parliament and its 2013–14 year to fund both this house and the other staff, and in this context I mean electorate officers. We place, the parliamentary committees and the are not talking about any public service staff here; we Department of Parliamentary Services as well as the are talking about the staff of this Parliament, and we are Auditor-General. The amounts are identified in the bill talking in many cases about the staff who are and they are the nub of it, but they are a dry summary representatives of all of us when we are not present in of what is a multiplicity and great diversity of activities. our electorate offices. That is critically important to bear in mind. These people are effectively an extension The core operations are of course the sitting of this of members of Parliament, performing the functions house and the other place and the staff and support they have been truly elected for, so I have grave services that go with that. While I am on that subject, I concerns about the idea, beyond an appropriation, of recognise the contribution made to the running of the there being a process whereby the Department of Parliament particularly by the clerks. I note the service Treasury and Finance can intervene in the content of an of Liz Choat to the Parliament and her impending enterprise agreement that is duly made, authorised and departure, and we greatly appreciate the work the staff signed off by the Presiding Officers. do — the attendants, the Hansard staff and all the other staff who make it possible for this place to tick. In that respect there are a number of points in this budget that continue to raise concern. There is a Beyond its core function as a legislature this Parliament continuation of the $4 million in cuts made last year, conducts very important activities in a range of other and the government’s efficiency dividend will once areas, not the least of which is the education function. again equal a reduction in the budget of a further Literally thousands of children come through the doors $300 000. The general efficiency dividend this year is of this place every year. Substantial outreach activities $200 000 off the budget. The dividend looks to be over are undertaken by the Parliament, such as taking the $2 million, which needs to be cut in the 2013–14 Parliament to children in schools, and there is the budget. development and provision of educational resources as well. I note that the stonework at Parliament will cost $5.6 million. I am one of the individuals who has been The bill funds the parliamentary outreach program. In expelled from their previous place of residence under the last 12 months we have had the pleasure of regional the stairs. I do not know whether I was co-locating with sittings in Ballarat and Bendigo. This is not a cheap the rats, but I do know that those offices were exercise, and it puts great demands on the staff. It puts desperately in need of work and I accept that that work some demands on members, but they are nowhere near had to occur, as much as the people of Victoria as significant of course. Importantly regional sittings probably cannot see that there is much value in it. I note are an opportunity for regional communities to engage. also that there is overwhelming support for that We all play our part, sometimes more effectively than proposition from my colleagues in The Nationals. at other times, in maintaining the dignity of the Parliament, but we also have a role to play in ensuring I will finish by making the point that this budget is that the Parliament is recognised for what it actually critical to the Parliament’s effective performance of its does and the role it plays as the body in this state: task. It is critically important that we retain the capacity making the laws. It is unsurprising that the focus is on to have a properly resourced Parliament and ensure that government. Political debate is generally about the all of the processes involved in presiding over the actions of government and government needs the executive are adequately resourced. Finally, I urge the support of the Parliament. Yes, as members we have government to recognise that as a government it should differences of opinion and, yes, we often divide on

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bills, but quite often — in fact more often than not — Committee (PAEC), which I have the privilege of we are in agreement. chairing, has just completed the estimates process. It is a substantial and often arduous process, but it does We should remember that the public institutions in this deliver good outcomes. I also want to recognise the state derive their powers from this place and the other Family and Community Development Committee for place. If a Victoria Police officer arrests an individual, its efforts in recent weeks and months in pursuit of its that power of arrest comes from this Parliament. The inquiry into child abuse. I spent an hour or so standing very law that person is alleged to have broken has at the back of the room on the last day of its hearings. probably been made by this Parliament. Local Excellent work was done on that day and on every government derives its capacity to levy rates effectively other day that the committee worked. via delegation from this Parliament. Most of the exercise of power and authority in this state is actually Each of those two committees has consumed derived from this Parliament, and that is something that substantial resources, and the undertaking is a should not be overlooked and probably too often is. substantial logistical exercise. Large numbers of the That is why the education and community engagement public come in, and there are additional burdens on functions of the Parliament are important. In the last security, on the clerks, on Hansard and on the whole year the 26th Youth Parliament was held, with 20 teams operation of the place. Again I think all do a great job in engaged in that. supporting those activities. The work that the committees do is invaluable. It informs policy Of course there is this building. Perhaps because of its considerations, it informs debate in this house and it history, and in part because of the function it informs debate in the other place, and indeed in the undertakes, it is a major tourist attraction in its own community. The committee work provides a substantial right. Overseas jurisdictions quite frequently charge for return on the investment that the public is making admittance. If you go to Westminster and you do not through this appropriation. have business there and you are not visiting your member as a constituent, then you pay. I think the fee There are considerable challenges in undertaking for entry was something like £22. I notice our cousins committee work in the 21st century when you are in Canberra, the federal Parliament, have been looking working in a 19th-century building, some of which are at how they can raise extra revenue. I believe the technical challenges. The expectations of the public and outcome from that inquiry was to try to extract a few media in the 21st century are very different. Again I more dollars from the gift shop rather than in any other commend the staff on the work they have done in way. Tourism is an important part of what goes on in dealing with the reality of a 150-year-old-plus building this place, and it is important that the tourism function and making it work. The fact that ABC 24 could carry a should not be allowed to subsume the parliamentary live feed from our cameras for most of the afternoon function. when the Family and Community Development Committee last met publicly speaks volumes about the Security is funded from this budget, and the member work that has been done to deal with those challenges. for Tarneit quite rightly recognised James Vongvixay in his contribution. I certainly want to add my good The building is much loved by those of us who work in wishes to James for his speedy return to full-time it, although members do get away from it for the duties, as I am sure all members do. majority of their time. But it is loved by the public too. The fact that 2500 people came through on the public This bill funds the parliamentary committees, of which open day is indicative of the public interest in this we have a very broad range. We have the domestic place. It has challenges, as does any old building. It committees of this house — the Privileges Committee needs ongoing maintenance. It would be nice to put and the Standing Orders Committee — but we also $60 million on the table and fix it all at once, not that have the joint investigatory committees, which are in anyone has the skills or capacity to undertake a task of transition at this time. I believe the current number is that size. It must be done over time, and the 14. We also have the relatively new Legislative Council parliamentary precincts program is a multidecade plan standing committees. Many members make very strong that is intended to deal with that issue. contributions to the committee process, generally in a bipartisan way, and they certainly add to the quality of We have all become familiar with the challenges of public debate in this state. working on a major building site. Although that is not necessarily a direct impact for most of us, we all need I particularly want to note the efforts of a two to work around it, whether it be the stone restoration, committees. The Public Accounts and Estimates whether it be the replacement of the electrical

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Tuesday, 11 June 2013 ASSEMBLY 1997 infrastructure — the Speaker and the President government departments do have that role but not the produced some spectacular photos when they addressed parliamentary departments. That is well understood by PAEC on the condition of some of the lamp-holders members on both sides of the house. It is well that came out of Queen’s Hall — or whether it be a task understood by frontbenchers on both sides of the house such as waterproofing the front steps. All are major and certainly by all those who form ministries, and that tasks. The detail is not always obvious when those sorts has been so for as long as I have been in the Parliament. of tasks are undertaken. I do not believe we have an issue there.

I note that in the last 12 months the bluestone chimneys However, the distinction is not always equally on the library roof had become unstable and had to be appreciated by the Victorian public service, it has to be dismantled, taken down and rebuilt. They were there to said, and sometimes there is an expectation that the start with, and they were there when the work was Parliament will fall into line with the rules that apply to finished. The work is not always obvious, but it is government departments. I do not think we make that important. Again a problem such as water penetration distinction often enough, and we need to make sure that in the refreshment rooms parapet wall does not need we repeat it again when necessary. immediate attention, but if it is not fixed, eventually the whole wall will fall down. There has also been I was pleased to note that part of the budget for the substantial work associated with the replacement or Parliament includes seminars in parliamentary process repair of the stonework and the replacement of the for the Victorian public service, because it is not just windows of Queen’s Hall. Some needed restoration and about the process, it is about what we do and it is about some replacement. why we do it, and that distinction between government departments and the parliamentary departments needs However, the bill is not all about Spring Street. A large to be maintained. A parliamentary democracy, a part of this budget supports the activities of members parliamentary system such as ours, is the foundation and their electorate work. There was a time when upon which the rest of the state is built. The bills we members of Parliament did not undertake electorate consider and the laws we make in this Parliament work or have electorate offices, and I am sure we would provide the framework for the type of government and all have a much more restful life if that were the case the type of state we want to have and the type of place now. But it is now very much an important function of we want to live in. This bill provides the resources to any elected member, and we would be much less ensure that the Parliament has the capacity to discharge effective in our role as legislators and much less that important task. engaged with our communities if we were not served by our electorate offices. Our electorate offices are the Mr SCOTT (Preston) — It gives me great pleasure first point of call for most Victorians engaging with to rise to speak on the Appropriation (Parliament their parliamentarians. 2013–2014) Bill 2013. Firstly I too, as other speakers have, place on the record my appreciation on behalf of The member for Tarneit noted the issue of the electoral the electors of Preston, opposition members, I am sure, redistribution. My recollection is that the Parliament and all members of this house, for the great work that is was simply preparing for the impact of the done by those who work for the Parliament in all its redistribution and the potential for there to be two guises, whether it be those who work for the Legislative electorate offices in one electoral district. I think that is Assembly, the Legislative Council or the Department of entirely appropriate in the context of planning Parliamentary Services or indeed the electorate officers appropriately for the future. who serve as the public face of members of Parliament in their electorates. There are, as we know, two appropriation bills on the notice paper today: one to fund the Parliament and one Electorate officers do such good work in resolving to fund the balance of the government sector in complex and trying constituent issues that arise through Victoria. It is done that way because we need to ensure the fault of bureaucratic incompetence, the failure of the independence of the Parliament. Whether it be the some regulation or the complexity of a person’s Department of Parliamentary Services, the Department circumstances. They deal with injustices that arise for of the Legislative Assembly or the Department of the individual members of the community regardless of Legislative Council, these are not just any other their political allegiance and ensure that people get as department. We have, and those departments have, a fair a deal as possible, thereby allowing MPs to act in unique and specific role. The starting point is that it is many ways as local ombudsmen in relation to the not the role of the houses, nor that of the parliamentary provision of government services and interaction with departments to implement government policy; all the executive government. It is a role that I know all

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members take very seriously. It is an important role and But if this office is not in place in an appropriate time one that is undertaken particularly through the auspices prior to the election — it has not been funded in this of the electorate officers who serve the community so budget, and there will be very limited time from the well and without much public fanfare. next budget for the process to be undertaken prior to the election — we on our side of politics will raise a An important matter I will turn to later is that electorate significant concern regarding the timing of the officers have been assaulted — including one of my operation and what functions will be undertaken by that own electorate officers — and serious issues have office. It should have been funded sooner. We would arisen in a number of offices of members of Parliament. have preferred it to have been operational prior to the We should take time to reflect upon those within the time it will be, which if it is not funded in this budget Parliament, the staff here, and obviously the terrible will clearly be in the next financial year, because incident that occurred at the front of Parliament House, significant issues will arise if that particular office is which I will not dwell on, but there are other staff only operational immediately prior to the next election, members who, in serving the community, have been the and I think that is unfortunate. subject of attacks, particularly by members of the community who are often, sadly, not necessarily in Secondly, an issue was raised — in returning to the control of their faculties. It is a very serious issue, and I theme of the good work done by electorate officers on put on the record my appreciation, a view that I am sure behalf of members of Parliament — in relation to the is held by all members, of the services of those who enterprise bargaining agreement (EBA) negotiations make our work possible, particularly in our electorate and the issue of the separation of powers. Before going offices and here at Parliament itself. on to that I echo the sentiments of the previous speaker, the member for Mornington, regarding the important The parliamentary appropriation is the means by which separation of the Parliament and Parliament not being salaries and other associated costs of those staff part of government. Parliament does not exist at the members are paid, and without their work and their whim of executive government. In fact my willingness to serve the community, often in roles understanding of constitutional crises of the without much fanfare or glory, Parliament could not do 17th century and their resolution and how its work on behalf of the Victorian community. I am parliamentary democracy has evolved subsequently is one who generally believes that people who come to quite the reverse. It was Parliament that established its this place and serve the Victorian community usually effective supremacy through the various upheavals of do so with motives of wanting to create a better the English Civil War, and in the resulting crises community and serve the public of this state and to leading to the Glorious Revolution, parliamentary ensure that in the future the lives of Victorians will be sovereignty was established as a concept. Therefore better than that of those who have gone before. That Parliament is not subject to the whims of executive work is only possible through the dedication of many government and particularly government departments staff, both those within the Parliament who serve in a and government policies. non-partisan way and those who serve members of Parliament directly. That is the reason, particularly in a matter that related to evidence provided by the Presiding Officers to the Like the lead speaker for the opposition, the member Public Accounts and Estimates Committee relating to for Tarneit, I have a number of concerns with this the Parliament’s budget when there was discussion of budget, principally related to the failure of the budget to the EBA, the President of the Legislative Council, fund the parliamentary budget office. I know the Bruce Atkinson, made a number of comments relating minister at the table, the Attorney-General, has to expectations, particularly of the Department of indicated that it will be funded prior to the next Treasury and Finance (DTF), for there to be election. However, I put on record that we think the compliance with government policy. Further evidence earlier this matter is resolved and the rules relating to its was provided by the minister at the table in relation to operation are clear and acceptable to all political parties there being an issue regarding compliance and in the better. I presume from the evidence that has been particular compliance with Fair Work Australia. I do given by the minister, and I take the minister at his not wish to verbal the minister, but the concern I would word, that it will be able to provide an addition to the have, having investigated this matter, is that matters Victorian parliamentary discourse in such a way that which were subject to DTF’s intervention included will allow fair and confidential policy costings to be mentioning the word ‘union’ in the agreement. I fail to undertaken, and that will provide additional benefit to see how that could possibly relate to compliance with the Victorian community. Fair Work Australia requirements since, on the advice I

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Tuesday, 11 June 2013 ASSEMBLY 1999 received, EBAs that make reference to unions as When laws are passed requiring that there be bargaining agents are struck regularly. parliamentary oversight, money needs to be made available to ensure that that oversight can be carried out The President also mentioned a further issue relating to efficiently by the Parliament. reallocating staff when the services of a person are terminated, and in particular when a member is The Presiding Officers also raised issues relating to IT defeated. This demonstrates a misunderstanding by leasing costs and improved security costs. I think all Department of Treasury and Finance officials about the members would be concerned for the safety of those nature of the staffing of parliamentary representatives. I who work in the Parliament. I hope members would not am sure the defeated member would be quite keen to quibble with that matter. The safety of those who work have their staff continue to work for the member who to ensure we can carry out our tasks in Parliament defeated them, but I am not sure the new member should be paramount to us all. would be so keen to receive such assistance. Their future re-election may be somewhat imperilled by that The lead speaker for the opposition raised concerns assistance, knowing the loyalty of staff to a political relating to the electoral boundaries redistribution. I will cause and to the member they previously served. There not touch on that matter in great detail. Obviously the are some interventions by the Department of Treasury electoral boundaries will come into effect at the next and Finance that raise important issues relating to the election and we will watch with interest to see how independence of the Parliament from the executive with those matters are dealt with. which we have some concerns. There have obviously been some cuts that have not Significant funding cuts to the Parliament’s budget been subject to much coverage. In last year’s budget were also outlined, and these were briefly touched upon there were cuts to MPs’ budgets and also to the by the lead speaker for the opposition. It is worth going operating expenses of the Department of Parliamentary through those figures in further detail. The output Services. It is important to note that the Department of funding cuts made in the last budget flow through to Parliamentary Services carries out much work for this budget. There were cuts of $4.1 million in Parliament. I hope members are observing the trend as 2013–14, $4.2 million in 2014–15, $4.31 million in the department slowly shifts over time from being a 2015–16 and $4.42 million in 2016–17, adding up to a traditional bureaucracy to becoming a helpful total of $17.03 million. That is the effect of the cuts organisation which seeks to ensure that members can over the current estimates period that stem from the carry out their duties. previous budget. For example, a number of the services that have A further series of cuts were made relating to measures traditionally been provided by large-scale IT in this year’s budget, particularly to the general organisations within the Department of Parliamentary efficiency dividend. They include $0.2 million for Services are now much more ubiquitously available. 2013–14, $0.9 million for 2014–15, $1.4 million for Dropbox is an example of a freely available service that 2015–16 and $2.1 million for 2016–17. That is a total once required large bureaucracies to ensure that the of $4.6 million. The grand total of the cuts made in this provision of information could continue. The roles of budget and the previous budget is $21.63 million over services like IT and others within the Parliament are the estimates period. In fact that total is over undergoing a subtle but important shift whereby the $25 million when you consider the impact of the cuts service organisation and those who are employed by it from the 2013–14 budget in 2013, which was are not simply there to run a system but are in effect $4 million. These are significant pressures on the becoming a helpdesk to facilitate the work of members budgets of the Parliament, which raises to the question of Parliament in a much more direct way. of whether the Parliament can conduct all the business it is required to conduct. The types of services these areas once provided are now more ubiquitously available to members of Parliament I also join other members in praising the work of the without the need to create large-scale bureaucratic committees. Particular issues will arise for the institutions, although there are always issues relating to committees in the coming year with the establishment security of data of which members of Parliament need of a number of new committees, particularly the to be particular cognisant. There has been a shift in the oversight committees for the Independent Broad-based culture over time that ensures that all those who work in Anti-corruption Commission. That will be an important the Parliament are now doing so to facilitate the work issue for the Parliament to deal with. There are other of others. In effect they are helping MPs to better carry challenges relating to Legislative Council committees. out their role.

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In the brief time I have left I would like to touch upon Parliamentary Services. The Auditor-General’s office is the work of the library. The library is an exemplary also funded by this bill. All of these departments play organisation within the Parliament. It has provided important roles. much help to members of Parliament over a long period of time. It has a really good culture of assisting We have 14 parliamentary investigatory committees. members of Parliament to carry out their duties in a The work they do is important as it provides non-partisan manner. Once libraries were about sorting information to the Parliament which then flows through and providing information; we can all remember the to form policy and the backbone we need for change. Dewey decimal system. Over time, as information has become more freely available, the role of library staff We also cannot fail to notice the work that goes on with has shifted to their becoming facilitators in the this grand building, which is divided between provision of access to information and research. The day-to-day maintenance and the restoration that is library does a really fantastic job of providing occurring. I appreciated the tour of the works that the parliamentary staff provided for me. It gave me a information and performing those sorts of tasks. It provides a pointer for the sort of work that is taking chance to look behind the scenes of this building to see over other sections of the Parliament. The library is a the works that are being undertaken. It has been a very role model. As times change, the requirements of large job. information technology change and roles change it When I was first elected to Parliament I went on a opens up scope to be more effective in providing holiday to Queensland. I said to someone there, ‘I services to members of Parliament. I think the library would like to look at Parliament House. How do you has done a fantastic job. get there?’. They said, ‘Follow the stonemasons’. The I will conclude by again thanking all those who work stonemasons were here when I arrived, and I think they will still be working here when I leave, because it is a on our behalf, without whom members of Parliament could not serve the Victorian community, and also by very large project. This year the stonework alone will echoing the comments made by the last government cost over $5 million. The stonemasons have moved speaker about the importance of recognising the true from one side of the building to the other and have set separation between executive government and the up in a way that tells us they have a lot of work to do and will be here for a while. There is also the work on legislature. The legislature is not a wing of the executive government and never should be. the front steps. When the drought broke, the layer underneath the steps was no longer impervious. That Mr CRISP (Mildura) — I rise to support the has been a significant job, but I notice that it is Appropriation (Parliament 2013–2014) Bill 2013 on progressing. It is a grand old building. It has held its age behalf of The Nationals. The purpose of the bill is to well, but it is over 150 years old and does need make provision for the appropriation of certain sums considerable work. out of the Consolidated Fund for the Parliament in respect of the financial year 2013–14. This building also has a major educational role. There are tours for the public and tours and educational I will be adding to and acknowledging the contribution programs for schools. These are invaluable. Another made by the member for Mornington, who went thing that MPs do is visit schools. The first thing you through much of what the Parliament does. I think it is say to children at a school is, ‘Hands up those who have worthwhile to look at democracy at work and therefore been to Parliament’. That’s how you know where to the working of Parliament. An enormous number of start in talking to them about your job as a services are required, and I will just quickly run through parliamentarian. them. There are the Hansard staff — who take out the ‘ums’ and ‘ahs’, for which I thank them very much — There are also once a term visits by the Parliament to the ground staff, the chamber staff, who look after us, regional cities. Last year the lower house visited security, the library, the Speaker’s office and many Ballarat. Taking the Parliament out of Melbourne to regional areas is a wonderful exercise, but it is not more. without its costs and difficulties. Schedule 1 of the bill outlines the expenditure of the various departments that comprise the Parliament. They I would like to respond to an issue raised by the include the Department of the Legislative Council, the members for Tarneit and Preston, which concerns the government’s commitment to the parliamentary budget Department of the Legislative Assembly — which both have budget allocations — the parliamentary office. I will draw on the 5 June presentation to the investigatory committees and the Department of Public Accounts and Estimates Committee (PAEC) by

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the Minister for Finance. Briefly, to paraphrase what Parliament it invites the public to make comparisons the Minister for Finance said at PAEC, this government regarding its priorities. is committed to establishing the parliamentary budget office. We are doing the preparatory work to have that Having said that, the allocation of funding for the office established, and we are looking for the best Parliament building in this budget is financing some possible model. Other models are being developed important work. The restoration and maintenance elsewhere, and we are particularly interested in the one projects around the Parliament are extremely important being developed by the federal government. We are for the ongoing maintenance of this building. This looking at those other models and pulling that work historic building is part of Victoria’s heritage, and it together to make sure we get something that works, is belongs to all of the Victorian people. As I am sure compatible and can be understood. That work is other members would agree, when people from our continuing, and rushing it would invite disaster. electorates visit the Parliament, particularly those who have not been here before, including those in their older There are also our electorate officers, the people who years visiting for the first time, they are astounded by serve our constituents day in, day out. What I have the architecture in this place. This is worth preserving observed, and I am sure other MPs have also, is that a for future generations. The maintenance of this building member of Parliament’s office is often the last stop for and the restoration works that have been funded and are constituents, many of whom are under stress and being gradually carried out are very important. The looking for help. As I said, our electorate officers do a works on the front steps and the sandstone facade work marvellous job day in, day out to deal with people who that has been occurring around the building are part of are often under stress. the upkeep of the building.

The Parliament building itself is a tourist attraction. I I want to acknowledge the work of many people within note that 2500 people came through the building on the the Parliament itself. In the Department of recent open day. This initiative has been well supported Parliamentary Services the people working in the by the community. That is a lot of people in this finance and organisation development areas assist building in one day, so I congratulate all involved for members with a range of human resource matters. I the success of the open day again this year. acknowledge the work of the people in the security and electorate properties unit, building and grounds The redrawing of the electoral boundaries has also been services, and catering, and the support provided to mentioned during debate on this bill. The draft report members by the information technology unit. I on electoral boundaries is due out very soon. Most of us acknowledge the Hansard staff, the people who accept that we will represent additional constituents. somehow make our contributions in this place look a That is especially true for regional MPs, because the lot better in writing than they probably were in reality, demographics of the state are changing. Melbourne is and the library staff, who do a fantastic job providing growing rapidly. Rural members will be representing research and reference support to members of larger areas, and everybody will be representing more Parliament. constituents. This adds considerably to all our workloads, particularly the workloads of our electorate Picking up on a point that was made by a previous officers, because as I said earlier they are there day in, speaker from the other side of the house, resourcing the day out. work of the education and community engagement unit is an important facet of this place. On both sitting days This bill has been well debated by other members. I and non-sitting days it is great to see groups of will keep my contribution reasonably short. I support schoolchildren in this place learning how democracy the Appropriation (Parliament 2013–2014) Bill, and I works in Victoria. It is something we could further wish it a speedy passage through the Parliament. enhance, and I commend the work of that unit and its important role in the Parliament. I acknowledge the Mr BROOKS (Bundoora) — It is a pleasure to rise support members get from the clerks, the to contribute to this important debate on the budget for Serjeant-at-Arms, the attendants and other staff, and of the Parliament. The allocation of additional funds for course our electorate staff, who do a fantastic job in our the Parliament in this year’s budget in comparison to electorates. I also acknowledge the work of the last year will raise questions in the minds of members committee staff. of the public. That is particularly so because we have a government that is under fire for its cuts to education, Returning to the subject of electorate staff, as this bill health and a range of other services, which I will not go also relates to salaries, they are party to an ongoing into now. When the government allocates funding to a enterprise bargaining agreement negotiation. At the

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Public Accounts and Estimates Committee estimates which was then in government — hearings it was revealed that the Department of Treasury and Finance had offered a view on an must abandon its current sham ‘independent’ policy costings and back a truly independent parliamentary budget office if it agreement that had apparently been reached. A is to have any credibility on costings … previous speaker on the other side of the house made a similar point. It is vital that the Parliament remain He went on to say that people could not have any separate from the executive and that government ‘confidence’ in the current system; that there was departments do not encroach on decisions taken by the ‘nothing independent’ about it, and that the Liberals Parliament. It is fine for the Presiding Officers to be and The Nationals were committed to an independent mindful of general public sector wage policy and to parliamentary budget office. The government has taken reflect on those things — and in terms of how we an inordinate amount of time to deliver on this promise. approach these issues, it would be foolish to suggest As I said, it is another promise from this government that the Parliament and the way it pays its staff should that has gone by the wayside. be an island — but we must remain separate from the executive. It is vital for our democracy that this In conclusion, this is a budget that provides ongoing Parliament remain the master of its own destiny, a point financial support for the important operations of this well made by a number of speakers on both sides of the Parliament. The Labor Party does not oppose its house. passage.

Something else that has come up in this debate is the Debate adjourned on motion of Mr KATOS (South issue of the redistribution of electoral boundaries in Barwon). Victoria. I think the draft maps are due to come out Debate adjourned until later this day. later this month, with the final maps to be released later this year. If past redistributions are anything to go by, a number of current electorate offices will be located STATE TAX LAWS AMENDMENT either outside their new boundaries or close to outside (BUDGET AND OTHER MEASURES) their new boundaries. In terms of how any relocations BILL 2013 of offices are approached, a high level of impartiality is 22BSecond reading important so that either members are not moved prior to the election and before new members are elected or Debate resumed from 8 May; motion of there is some agreement on a fair way for that process Mr O’BRIEN (Treasurer). of moving members to occur. Mr PALLAS (Tarneit) — It gives me great pleasure There is a failure in this budget to allocate funds for the to rise to speak on the State Tax Laws (Budget and independent parliamentary budget office, which was a Other Measures) Bill 2013. In so doing I indicate that strong commitment given by the previous opposition, members of the opposition will not oppose the bill, the now government. It is a great shame that the although we will raise some concerns about the Liberals and The Nationals have not been able to fulfil government’s continuing obsession with finding new that election commitment. Government speakers have and insidious ways of increasing its capacity to extract indicated that the government still intends to create a money from Victorian taxpayers. A summary of the parliamentary budget office to provide political parties content of the bill has been provided by the Treasurer in and Independent members of Parliament with an the context of the second-reading speech, but it is independent mechanism to cost their policies. The important to note that those of us on this side of the government says it is still committed to establishing chamber have grave concerns about some aspects of that office, but without funding in this budget it will be this bill. very difficult for that office to be established after the next budget and in time for the election, which will take The government’s claims about the comparative merits place a few months after that. We can strike this of its budgetary and financial management of the election promise off as another failed election economy do not stand up to any rigour. This bill commitment. increases the amount of the congestion levy and extends it to short-stay parking spaces in the CBD and In opposition the Liberals and The Nationals were very inner Melbourne. I do not think anyone would be able keen to trumpet its establishment. Back on 9 November to find a single member of the now government who in 2010 the now Minister for Finance said: opposition did not stand and indicate their diametric The Labor Party — opposition to the concept of a congestion charge.

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Before they came to government, one after another they Victorians will see through that and through the got up in this place and said the congestion levy was transparent costs that will afflict them. When Victorians nothing short of a revenue-raising measure. get to see both their insurance bills and the amounts they will have to pay as the fire services property levy, Since coming to government members opposite have they will know. demonstrated their hypocrisy by showing that they have nothing better to do than raise revenue. The fact is they Mr Walsh interjected. have turned it into an art form. After expressing a desire to remove the charge, government members are not Mr PALLAS — There we go! We have heard from only increasing it but they are extending it. They got up the Deputy Leader of The Nationals that Victorians will in this place and said, ‘We hate the idea of a congestion have significant savings. We will put that to the test levy; we would get rid of it in government’, but what when we compare the cost of those insurance bills and happened when they got into government? They did not the fire services property levy with the previous get rid of the levy but instead found a way of allocations. Make no mistake! We will be watching. substantially increasing it not only in terms of the Victorians will be watching, and they will be voting amount it manages to garner from Victorians but also with their feet. its physical scope, which will increase the government’s capacity to extract funds from more users Thanks to a freedom of information request, I have of car parking spaces in the state. That is exactly what already received a list of literally hundreds of people this bill does. who have written to the Department of Treasury and Finance expressing concerns about the operation of the This bill stands testament to this government’s fire services property levy. It is not good enough to say, hypocrisy and lack of philosophical clarity in terms of ‘We will put it to the Public Interest Monitor’. If people the direction it wishes to take. This hypocrisy is are going to be disadvantaged as a consequence of impeding not only the government’s capacity to unfair legislation, then it is members opposite who are manage the state’s economy but also its ability to responsible for it, nobody else. Government members elaborate a clear vision for the future. This bill is an should not try and hide behind Alan Fels or anybody attempt by the government to garner funds from else. They will stand responsible for the operation of whatever sources it can in an effort to embellish an this legislation. eroding budgetary position that it has been the custodian of and is ultimately responsible for. Overall this bill is sneaky, dishonest, hypocritical and ineffective in terms of its broad objectives. The The changes to the first home buyer grant are a thimble members of this government have become and pea trick that in many ways will significantly exceptionally good at increasing debt. disadvantage many Victorian first home buyers. We know this will happen because the experts have said so, Honourable members interjecting. and I will speak about that in due course during my Mr PALLAS — Yes. They are the gold medallists contribution. On the subject of the fire services property at increasing debt. This is a government that is better levy, opposition members know exactly how difficult than any government in the last — — government members are finding it to sell their message, and it will only get more difficult as we go The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Weller) — Order! forward. Members of this government are out there The member for Tarneit, without assistance. using taxpayers funds to extoll the virtues of their fire Government members will get their turn. I ask them to services property levy. They claim that their advertising come to order and listen to the member for Tarneit. campaign is information and re-education — any other word but ‘advertising’. Mr PALLAS — I hope you insist that government members are factually correct, because we know what If we think back, we can remember that members the Auditor-General said in his midyear update in opposite used to get up one after another to complain November 2012. He made it very clear that there are when government funds were used to fund Transport increasing concerns about this government’s debt Accident Commission or Victorian WorkCover strategy and its capacity to manage its debt issues. Authority advertising. They described Labor’s campaigns as political, but now they claim their own This government has continued to grow debt further advertising campaign for the fire services property levy and further, and at the same time its members have is not political advertising. They say the campaign’s found new and imaginative ways to raise revenue. focus is on educating people about their entitlements. Government members are doubling the amount of the

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congestion charge in terms of the revenue the claim to be encouraging construction activity but only government will receive. Government members are provide a meagre measure through the provision of the imposing charges on the public despite having first home buyers grant. There is less value in the grant promised before the last election not to raise taxes. That than there was when this government came to power, was their commitment to the Victorian people — not to yet government members are presenting the first home raise taxes. We should sit back and see exactly how buyers grant as if it is a win for the people who receive many taxes this government has raised. it. They are in effect delegating tax collection powers to councils and potentially outsourcing State Revenue I remember how, after 10 years of Labor being in Office functions to the private sector. government, the previous Treasurer — temporarily the Treasurer, now pursuing different fields of endeavour Let us look at this government’s so-called budgetary as Minister for Police and Emergency Services — put management skills. In the second-reading speech the together a list of 26 taxes and increases in charges over Treasurer made the following amazing claim: the CPI that the Labor government had imposed upon Victorians. How big do we reckon that list is after two Over the past decade, the state saw considerable revenue growth which was outpaced by increases in government and a half years of this government? Let me tell expenditure, and without action the growth in government net members that it has at least doubled during this debt would have become unsustainable. government’s term of office, and opposition members have not even been trying. Government members spent The Treasurer was saying in effect that revenue growth 11 years putting together a list of those taxes. It was a was outpaced by expenditure growth. In fact in terms of tawdry little list, but now we get to see exactly what own-purpose funding over the period 2005 to 2010, members of this government are good at — that is, revenue consistently covered expenditure amounts. getting into Victorians’ pockets. They are good at Much of the growth that occurred in revenue and talking up a good fight about debt reduction and then expenses in the final years of the Labor government doing nothing about it, indeed doing quite the contrary. was due to grants and projects stemming from the commonwealth government’s stimulus package. The Then we heard the nonsense coming from the mouth of revenue and expenses generated by the state the Gilligan who pretends to be the Treasurer of this government itself actually remained relatively flat over state. He got up and said that if Labor had remained in that time. government, debt would have got to 17 per cent of gross state product. It is the sort of argument you would What has happened since the coalition government was hear from somebody who does not understand that elected? We would have expected the Treasurer to have governments confront the challenges that present shown his great capacity to wean himself off revenue themselves. They adjust the economic circumstances growth. In fact state-generated revenue and expenses and — guess what — they govern in the interests of have both increased. Victorians. They do not just pretend to have a strategy or a policy before an election and then turn around and Ms Ryall interjected. trash it in terms of the policies that they put in place. Mr PALLAS — We hear the member for Mitcham This legislation is nothing short of a demonstration that interject about the GST. Let us remember a little bit strips this government bare of any philosophical about the GST. Back when the Treasurer was the commitment, any philosophical touchstone, anything second-best adviser to former federal Treasurer Peter that actually made its members stand up for any Costello Victorian receipts under the GST averaged principle before the last election. 84 cents in the dollar.

Before the election government members said they Mr Nardella — How much? were going to reduce taxes, but they have increased them. They said they would not increase debt, and in Mr PALLAS — It was 84 cents in the dollar. While effect they went about massively increasing debt. he was in opposition it reached the dizzy heights of Members of this government have absolutely no idea 90 cents in the dollar, and he declared that the Victorian about not only what their policies are but what their government — a Labor government — was swimming principles are. This is a government stripped bare of in ‘rivers of gold’. He described it as rivers of gold. Of any principles that would commend it to the Victorian course now that we are back to a return in GST of public, and this is a bill that makes government around the 90 cents in the dollar, we hear him bleating. members totally unmeritorious in terms of their Why did he not stand up for Victoria when he was prosecution of the responsibilities the Victorian people Peter Costello’s second best adviser? He was doing gave them at the last election. Government members nothing. Essentially what we know is that debt

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remained consistently very low in terms of percentage Let us talk about how it is going to do that through this of gross state product under the previous government bill. The congestion levy is a tax that is currently but has increased rapidly since the 2010 election and is applied only to long-stay car parking spaces in the projected to peak at the dizzy heights of 6.6 per cent in CBD. Long-stay car parks are those where you enter 2015. before 9.30 a.m. and stay there for at least 4 hours. This tax was designed to capture car spaces used by people Prior to the 2010 election the coalition promised to who commute to work in the CBD by car but avoid improve services without pushing up debt. That was its taxing those who are in the city for other reasons — and promise. Coalition members put their hands on their for good reason. It is not about cutting back the hearts and said to the Victorian electorate, ‘We are not economic activity of those areas. If you had listened to going to push up debt, and we are not going to raise the former Treasurer, the former Premier or the current taxes — because we are magic’. Once in power, what Premier when they were in opposition, you would have did they do? Debt has gone up through the roof, and thought that imposing such a tax would have massively they have increased taxes. This bill is a demonstration affected the capacity of retail businesses. However, it that they will not stop at any opportunity to get their cannot have affected them so greatly, because when hands in the taxpayers pocket. They promised to prop those members got into government they decided it up the Victorian economy effectively by their would be a really good idea to double the tax take intervention, by their sage and deft hand on the tiller of through a variety of measures contained in this bill and the economy, and what did we see? We saw them in these specific provisions. That is as clear a increase own-source revenue — that is, the stuff that condemnation as you can get of a government. they are responsible for, not anybody else. This government put it through the roof. It is this To this end, there are exemptions in the bill which deal government and no other that has developed new and with residential parking, visitor parking, special events, imaginative ways to pump up revenue options, and this disabled parking and so on. When the levy was legislation contains some of them. introduced in 2005 the now Premier denounced it as ‘purely another tax grab by the greedy Bracks Labor But how do you find that revenue? Firstly, you have to government’ and said it would do nothing to ease cut yourself adrift from anything you ever said in congestion. The coalition has taken a tax that it was opposition. You have to give up on anything you ever diametrically opposed to — because the tax would not said because that was the stuff you pretended to believe work — and decided, ‘It does not work. Let’s double it! in before you formed government. This government is That’s a good idea’. That is the principle the not only tawdry but is also full of impostors. It government stands for: the principle of having no pretended to be one thing in opposition but when it got principles. What a government! into government it did exactly the opposite. To prop up its solitary goal of economic achievement and budget In the lead-up to the 2013–14 budget the government management this government insists on disseminating announced that it would apply the congestion levy to all the myth that it has controlled the level of state debt and car parking spaces, not just long-stay car parks. That is expenditure, but it continues to grow both. a dramatic change, which may well have an impact on businesses in the area, particularly as it will affect This government has been both hypocritical and people who are coming in not because they like to profligate, and it requires a pretty deft hand to get away commute to work but because they want to shop in with it really. It is a government that says, ‘We know retail areas. Remember retail areas? Retailers were the how to manage debt, and by the way it’s going through people government members in opposition cried rivers the roof, but it would have been worse if that of blood for, claiming retailers were going to be government that had previously managed to keep debt affected by the inappropriate actions of the previous to about the same level as a percentage of gross state government. The no. 1 issue was the congestion levy, product as the Kennett government did when it left which the then opposition saw as nothing more than a office — not before it left office — were in power’. tax grab. Government members have now turned the The Labor government managed to do that. This tax grab into a tax bonanza, to use their own language. government has managed to double the level of debt as We have seen in the government’s budget that this a percentage of gross state product since then. We are allocation, this tax, will raise $183.4 million over the seeing state debt rising to an enormously high level next four years. from a government that pretends it has a solution but whose only solution is to get into your pocket. There is also a technical change to the Congestion Levy Act 2005, which brings into doubt whether the exemption for hospitals will remain in place. Because

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2006 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 11 June 2013 the parking space must be owned by the hospital, if a roof. Not only does this government have no idea but it health service has sold the contract for the car parking has no sense of virtue. Quite frankly, government services to another operator, the tax may apply. There members should be hanging their heads in shame. This are reports that the Epworth hospital may, for example, bill is a demonstration that the government has no idea be affected. In opposition the now Premier derided the about how to best manage the circumstances of this congestion tax as a greedy tax grab that would hurt state. business. The Premier is not just intent on hurting business but has raised the prospect of grabbing money We now move on to the changes for first home owners. from hospitals, which will find one of their revenue First home owners currently receive a grant and stamp sources has been cut or at least that their return from duty reduction on the purchase of their property. In that revenue source has been substantially undermined April the Treasurer announced a series of changes to by the additional tax liability that is proposed in this these benefits. Firstly, the first home owner grant will bill. now only be available to purchasers of new homes valued at less than $750 000, but the grant has been Applying the congestion levy to short-term car parks increased from $7000 to $10 000. This follows the means that it directly targets shoppers at a time when removal last year of the new-home-only $13 000 first the future of retail has never looked less certain and home bonus and the $65 000 regional bonus, which when literally hundreds of thousands of jobs are being were introduced by Labor in 2010. The stamp duty reported by the Australian Retailers Association as reduction has been maintained for all first home falling out of this sector. This is a job-destroying purchases, and the cut of 40 per cent for homes up to government. It is a government that in its first budget the value of $600 000 has been brought forward to have could not even bring itself to mention the word ‘jobs’. effect from 1 July 2013, rather than 1 January 2014. This government was not prepared to put in place a jobs and investment plan like Labor’s, but every now and The justifications for this move to providing the grant again you hear government members pick out a part of for only new homes are, firstly, to encourage that policy that they really like, such as our construction activity, and secondly, to bring the scheme procurement policy. In Parliament today we heard into line with New South Wales, Queensland and South members and ministers of this government suggest that Australia. The number of dwelling construction local government should buy more local cars. Guess approvals has fallen since December 2010: there were what? That was in our procurement plan, that was 5849 dwellings approved in that month and 3872 in Labor’s policy and it only took government members April of 2013. Full-time construction jobs have actually eight months to get around to implementing it. This is a gone backwards by 6400 jobs since November 2010. government that wants to be in our pockets but cannot This has been a continuing pattern with this manage the finances of this state. government over the last two years. The changes will do little to offset the cuts from last year. In its haste to get this tax through the Parliament the government has written a very sloppy piece of When these changes were announced the Treasurer legislation. The result could be taxing people for claimed that the effect would be to make the dreams of visiting their relatives in hospital. The result could be a many young Victorians become a reality sooner. demonstration that this government has no moral Nothing could be further from the truth, or more cruel. compass and no economic virtue. The government says He noted that a first home buyer buying an established that the revenue is going to go back into public property, because of the stamp duty concession being transport and roads, but where is the evidence of that? brought forward, would have the loss of the first home Where in this bill do we see a commitment to owner grant offset by stamp duty savings of $7588. The hypothecation? announcement failed to mention that the majority of first home buyers will actually be worse off as around The government has cut road maintenance funding, it 70 per cent of first home purchases tend to be of only provided $294 million for its east–west tunnel established rather than new stock housing. You could procurement plan and our public transport is getting not find a more dramatic demonstration of a thimble less reliable every year. Government members say, ‘We and pea government. This is not a government with the are going to put the money in — take our word for it’, heart of a pea or a thimbleful of courage when it comes but that is all you are left with to take. Who in their to putting in place a serious economic agenda but a right mind would take the word of this government? It government that likes to pretend to the people of is a government that said it would reduce taxes, and Victoria that it is trying to do something for them when then it increased them. It is a government that said it the practical effect of these changes is that 70 per cent would not increase debt, and then debt went through the

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of all first home owners — that is, those who buy have been led to believe there will be no losers from established stock — will be worse off. these arrangements, but we will see. The changeover process has put people at risk of being overcharged by That is what this government is all about: trying to insurance companies that should be phasing out the fire pretend to be doing something and making things services levy component of their premiums. We know worse, because its values are so skewed. Its basic this government has become addicted to finding new principles and its lack of honesty with the Victorian and insidious ways to tax people, and this bill is just a people about what challenges confront the state and further manifestation of a government without vision or what genuine efforts need to be made to address them effort. have been shrouded in an effort to pretend that all is going fine and there are no taxes, and if there is Mr MORRIS (Mornington) — As he often is, for anybody to blame, it is the Labor Party, it is the most of his 30 minutes the member for Tarneit was financial crisis, it is the GST or it is the federal moderately entertaining, but as he often is, he was government. You name it, but it has nothing to do with certainly short on facts and long on fiction. It is clear this government. that the shadow Treasurer, like his predecessor the former member for Lyndhurst, is not a member of the Most first home buyers will be worse off under this Public Accounts and Estimates Committee. If he were, scheme. The government claims it is seeking to he may well be better informed on the detail of the encourage housing construction, but under its watch it budget. The member for Lyndhurst is well informed in has reduced the incentives overall, and we know what that regard. the practical effect is. Because of the government’s policies since its election in November 2010, the I am pleased to support the State Tax Laws volume of people employed in this industry has reduced Amendment (Budget and Other Measures) Bill 2013, overall. The government is taking the grant away from which is an essential part of the budget process. It is fair the majority of first home buyers to give it to the to say that state taxation makes a relatively modest minority, effectively robbing Peter to pay Paul. contribution in terms of defraying the cost of running Whatever constitutes the policy framework that the state, but nevertheless when you are talking about a underpins this, virtue and fairness is not part of it. budget of some $50 billion plus it is nevertheless a significant amount of money, and it is an important Finally, I turn to the fire services property levy contribution towards running the services that are amendments. This government is putting in place a fire provided. services property levy which is a burden on councils. It likes to pretend that it is a council tax. The government The bill amends the Duties Act 2000, the Congestion has required councils to raise the revenue for it. It has Levy Act 2005, the Fire Services Property Levy Act even put in place arrangements that dictate exactly how 2012, the First Home Owner Grant Act 2000, the the levy is to be raised. I hear from the Minister for Liquor Control Reform Act 1998, the Payroll Tax Act Agriculture and Food Security, who is at the table, that 2007, the Taxation Administration Act 1997 and the the government is not forcing councils to raise taxes, Water Act 1989. I venture to suggest that with and I hope he puts that on the record because plenty of 8 minutes left for my contribution I am not going to get councils will take that option straightaway. They will to a lot of those changes. say to the government, and they have said to the government, that it is contracting them to do this This is very much a bill about building for growth. I against their will. That is a new form of contract. It is contrast that with the spectacular failure of the former the contract you have when both parties do not reach government to invest in infrastructure over an extended what a lawyer would say is a ‘consensus ad idem’ — period and its failure to build, although towards the end that is, if there is not an agreement, you just tell them of its term there was a bit of a mad panic and a great what to do. That is basically the standard operating splurge. It was not particularly well directed, but a lot of procedure of this government. It says, ‘We will tell you money was spent. There is the legacy, and it is a what to do, take our word for it and, quite frankly, we significant legacy, of an infrastructure deficit; a legacy will force an outcome that we see as being appropriate’. of ramped-up debt, which we now need to service; and a legacy of many public-private partnerships (PPPs), The fire services property levy is a burden on councils. including two major PPPs which have been completed More generally, the Treasurer will not give a straight in the last 12 months — Peninsula Link and the answer about whether people who had previously been desalination plant. One is certainly of some benefit, and paying the fire services levy through their insurance I enjoy driving on it despite the cost to the taxpayers of might end up paying more under the new charge. We Victoria, but the other one is perhaps of less benefit.

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One might ask what the relevance of those comments to services, and on-street parking are all exempt from this the bill is. It is really quite simple. When commitments levy. are made, they need to be funded. Those commitments have been made, and we need to fund them. We need to The increase will raise an additional $44 million. The continue to find the funds for infrastructure that was not levy is about resourcing public transport. I contrast the funded or built when it needed to be — the shortfall I $44 million that is raised by this modest increment with was talking about. We need to pay the interest, we need the additional $300 million in new money going into to pay the debt and we need to pay the recurrent and public transport in this budget. That money is funding ongoing costs of the PPPs. All of those things need to new trains, railway stations and grade separations. be met, and they need to be met from state resources. Contrast the $300 million of new money that is going into public transport with the $44 million raised by this I am very pleased that we have done the hard work. We tax. now have the budget under control. The member for Tarneit endeavoured without much success to suggest Another point the member for Tarneit attempted to that despite the facts expenditure growth did not exceed make related to the length of time a person is in the city. revenue growth over an extended period. We know that He seemed to be saying if you come into the city for a is not correct and that for an extended period long period you should use public transport, but if you expenditure growth was much faster than revenue are only coming into the city for a short time you growth, and that is clearly unsustainable. The should not use public transport. We do not believe that government is now very close to funding infrastructure is the case; we believe we need to get as many people from the budget, and indeed in the next couple of years as possible onto public transport, and that is why we are we will close in on that target. putting in the work in this space.

All of that has been achieved despite the cost to revenue Towards the end of his contribution the member for of the difficulties with the GST. I was interested that the Tarneit attempted to make a point about compulsion. member for Tarneit appears to believe that the He talked about the local car industry and the efforts the $7 billion hit that this state has taken in receipts from state has been making not only to support the efforts by the GST is a mirage. Obviously if he really believes it is the commonwealth, South Australia and this a mirage, if he were to hold the job of Treasurer, he jurisdiction to source our vehicles locally but also to would not be responding by terms of cutting expenses encourage other jurisdictions to do so as well. He talked to address that so-called mirage. He would just carry on about the opposition policy which would force local spending. In his contribution the member did not make councils to purchase Australian-made vehicles. any suggestions about where money might be saved. There are some changes to first home owner assistance, That is the difference between the two sides: one will act responsibly, recognise the facts of the situation and with a $10 000 increase in the first home owner grant, deal with them, and the other will pretend difficulties the bringing forward of the 40 per cent stamp duty are a mirage and go on spending. concession to 1 July this year rather than 1 January next year as was originally intended and stamp duty savings There has been some discussion already today about the worth up to $12 428 for first home buyers. There are a changes to the car park levy. There are two significant range of eligible new homes and the grant will no changes. One is that the charge is extended to include longer be paid for first home buyers purchasing existing short-stay car parks from 1 January next year. It is homes. There is great support for these changes from important to make the point that all current exemptions the building industry, in particular from the Master remain, and I will run through them in a moment. The Builders Association of Victoria, the Housing Industry levy is increased to $1300 per annum per space. That Association and the Urban Development Institute of needs to be put into perspective: firstly, the increase is Australia. I have one quick quote from the Masters less than $1 a day. By comparison, the current levy in Builders Association of Victoria: the city of Sydney — $2160 — is $860 more or The new incentives will help our industry rebound … two-thirds higher than the levy proposed by this bill. You need to keep that perspective when you have this I contrast that approach with the cuddling up to the discussion. The second point to make on this topic is on Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union that the issue of exemptions. Visitor spaces, residential we see from members on the other side. parking, hospital parking and patient parking — despite what the member for Tarneit said — local government Regarding the fire services levy, we see the removal of spaces, charity spaces, spaces for shift workers, spaces stamp duty, the removal of the GST, the removal of a for people with disabilities, spaces for emergency tax on a tax. The member for Tarneit seemed to suggest

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that those who are not currently making a fair when asked about his plan for debt said, ‘The first step contribution should continue to not make a fair is: it cannot go any higher’. Is that what has actually contribution. We believe in equity, and we believe that happened? Has it not gone any higher? No, of course it the fire services levy is the appropriate way to go. I has continued to rise. Not only has it continued to rise commend the bill to the house. but the point at which it starts to come down is getting pushed out every year. In 2011 we were told it would Mr PAKULA (Lyndhurst) — We have heard lots of get to $23 billion and then start coming down; the next fantastic claims from the government. They have been year we were told it would get to $23.8 billion and then coming since almost immediately after the last election, start coming down; this year we were told it will get to when the books were first opened and the former $25 billion and then start coming down. What will we Premier indicated that everything was basically as the be told next year? We will have to wait for that. The new government had been told in opposition. It seemed fiction and fantasy that is being propagated by this that shortly thereafter someone in the Liberal-Nationals government about debt needs to be seen to be believed. strategy unit indicated to him that it did not leave the government much wriggle room to say that the budget We were also told that taxes would come down, that no was as it was told it would be. jobs would be lost and that all infrastructure would be funded out of the surplus. That was the Vertigan plan. From that moment on the new government made a At the last budget estimates hearing these guys all ran range of extraordinary claims about the state of the from Vertigan like Dracula from garlic. No-one would budget, because it is inconvenient for a new admit ever having heard of Vertigan, ever having seen government not to have an alibi or a series of alibis. We him or ever having read his report. No-one wanted to have seen all of them trotted out in a mere two and a know about it. This government continues to maintain half years. We have seen the alibis about the that it is going to fund all of this infrastructure out of commonwealth, the GST, the state of the budget as the surplus, but it wants to deny the author of that plan his former government left it and the desalination plant — recognition. We were promised there would be a magic we have seen them all — so that the government can pudding. avoid responsibility for anything it has done, anything it has said, every promise it made, every commitment it We were promised that the problems would be fixed took to the last election and every cut for which it has and that the future would be built with no new taxes, been responsible. with no increase in taxes; by bringing down debt, by nobody being sacked, by infrastructure being built We have heard the claim from the new Treasurer and totally out of surplus, with the cost of living being the former Treasurer that they were left with this brought down, all at the one time. This budget incredible structural deficit, completely ignoring the demonstrates what we always knew, what we always fact that for 11 years straight — it is not as if it was a said and what was always obvious — that is, that the one-off or an aberration — the state budget was in government never had a magic pudding and that debt, surplus and the state had a AAA credit rating. The rather than coming down, is going up as a percentage of Liberal-Nationals government wants to wish that gross domestic product. The only thing the government history away. It wants us to believe the former can hang its hat on is that in the out years debt will start government never had a surplus and never had a to come down, but it has told us that since the day it AAA rating. That is a fiction being propagated and came to office and it has not happened yet. We are maintained by the government in order to provide itself being asked to buy a pig in a poke on the matter of debt. with an alibi for everything it chooses to do. This government has got its surplus by slashing We have heard just today the claim that debt would programs. Despite solemn promises to the contrary, it have hit 17 per cent of gross domestic product if the has got its surplus by slashing a huge number of public former government had remained in office, ignoring the sector jobs. Government members say, ‘But we have fact that there was no trajectory — other than that based been able to do that without any impact on front-line on the Liberal-Nationals’ own propaganda — that ever services’ when we have heard in this place week after suggested that debt would go anywhere near those week about the impact on ambulance services that the numbers and ignoring the fact that debt never went near government continues to bury its head in the sand those numbers. about. We know about the parents who have lost their School Start bonus and we know about the parents who In fact before the last election the then Leader of the have lost their education maintenance allowance. We Opposition, the member for Hawthorn, who then know all of these things, but the government continues became the Premier and then stopped being Premier, to maintain that front-line services have not been

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affected. This is despite the fact that road maintenance ensure that all the insurance companies will do the right is down, despite the fact that traffic congestion is thing. The government knows that is a commitment it getting worse and not better, and despite the fact that cannot give. We do not object to the fact that now just a year ago we had a minister threatening to resign people who have not been paying before might start to over the slashing of TAFE funding. The government pay, but if you have been doing the right thing you are now pretends there has been some miraculous at least entitled to a commitment from the government improvement in TAFE. I have always wondered why a that you will not be worse off. This government knows minister would threaten to resign over a miraculous that is a commitment it cannot make. improvement. What we are seeing is debt going up with no plan that To get to the point, in this budget we see fines revenue we can rely on to bring it down. We see taxes going up budgeted to go up by $38 million, registration revenue to the highest rate they have ever been and all those budgeted to go up by $72 million, an $82 million health commitments not being worth a thing. What have we benefit levy on two gaming companies that ran the got to show for it? Are our schools better? Are our system for 46 days of the financial year and that are hospitals better? Is our ambulance service better? Is now in court, and $78 million in electronic gaming congestion better? No, they are not. machine revenue. There is the congestion levy, which the member for Tarneit has already talked about, where Mr Watt interjected. we see for the first time no consideration of the rate of vacancy and where we see for the first time a tax — Mr PAKULA — If the member for Burwood wants that was described by the now Premier as a poorly to go out to his constituents and tell them that targeted and greedy tax grab — being almost doubled congestion has improved, that the ambulance service is and applied in a way in which it has never been applied better and that schools are better, I invite him to do that, because he will be butting up against reality and he will before. lose all credibility. In regard to the first home buyer scheme we see that if you are purchasing an existing home in metropolitan Mr McCURDY (Murray Valley) — I am delighted Melbourne, you are worse off than you were under the to rise to speak in the debate on the State Tax Laws Amendment (Budget and Other Measures) Bill 2013, last budget; if you are purchasing an existing home in regional Victoria, you are worse off than you were which did not get a look-in with the opposition under the last budget or under the former government; members who most recently spoke on the bill. They if you are purchasing a newly built home in ranted about various things but rarely, if at all, metropolitan Melbourne, you are worse off than you addressed the bill. If members read the Daily Hansard tomorrow, they will see there was hardly any mention were under the previous government; and if you are purchasing a newly built home in regional Victoria, you of the state tax laws amendment bill. The member for are worse off than you were under the previous Tarneit has obviously been delirious since taking up the government. So much for an incentive for new home portfolio of shadow Treasurer. His rant on this bill was building. misguided and just wrong. If you listened to the member for Tarneit, you would think that butter would In regard to the fire services levy, which the not melt in his mouth. But he preached to us about government is so proud of, I lost count of how many increasing costs. Has he forgotten the desalination opportunities we gave the Treasurer and the Minister plant, the source of the biggest tax on Victorians in for Bushfire Response to make one very simple and living memory? If members opposite start talking about clear commitment that if you were doing the right taxes that we are imposing, they must have forgotten thing, if you were someone who had been paying your about the desalination plant. fire services levy over recent years — not someone who was not paying but someone who had been Mr Wynne interjected. paying — the government would provide a guarantee Mr McCURDY — You could not even sell poker that you would not be worse off. Every minister who machine licences — — was asked the question dodged the opportunity to provide that commitment. Why? Because they know The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Weller) — Order! they cannot give it. They cannot give it with their hand If the member for Richmond insists on interjecting, he on heart because they do not know what the insurance can leave the chamber. companies are going to do, and they do not control every local government authority. What they rely on Mr McCURDY — As I was saying, members of entirely is Allan Fels and his powers to somehow the opposition could not even sell poker machine

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licences properly, and now, when we are trying to be after young farmers and give them opportunities, proactive, they are telling us what to do. The minute we because farmers, not just in the Murray Valley but all bring in a fair system for the payment of a fire services over Victoria and Australia, have a difficult task. They levy, they are critical. They are critical about a fair are up against Mother Nature, they buy on the retail system, when they locked us into an unfair system market — all their inputs are bought on the retail which they would not even talk to us about. market — and they sell their produce on the wholesale market. It is almost the reverse of what most retailers Mr Wynne interjected. do, so they always have challenges on their hands. These changes are aimed at helping young farmers in The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Weller) — Order! I particular in order to keep them on the land and make ask the member for Richmond to behave! sure they continue coming through.

Mr McCURDY — The shadow Treasurer needs to Broadening the duty concession is consistent with the look at Labor’s failed legacies before criticising this government’s policy for attracting and retaining young government. people who wish to pursue a career in agriculture. In The member for Lyndhurst, since coming into this November last year the government announced that it house, has obviously had rose-coloured glasses on would double the threshold for stamp duty concessions because they are certainly not mirrors — he has no for young farmers to $600 000 following a review of rear-vision mirror. He cannot look backwards; he can the program. As I said, agriculture is crucial to only see the challenges we have in front of us. We Victoria’s economy, generating more than $8 billion a understand that we face challenges, but many of those year in exports. It is an example of the old story: you do are because of the 11 long years under Labor — but we not know what you have until it is gone. If we continue will fix the mess. Rome was not built in a day. We are to lose young farmers from our regions, we will not taking responsibility and we are getting on with it. have a farming and agriculture industry. I think people are aware that Victoria’s farmers feed more people than I will come back to the bill. The bill amends the Duties just Victorians. I understand that Australia wide we Act 2000, the Payroll Tax Act 2007, the First Home produce enough food for more than 60 million people. Owner Grant Act 2000, the Fire Services Property Levy Act 2012, the Taxation Administration Act 1997, the The coalition government has set aside $12 million for Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 and the Water Act stamp duty concessions to help remove potential 1989. We are making changes to these very important barriers to young people who want to take up farming. bills for the benefit of all Victorians. At the end of the last financial year 118 farmers had benefited from more than $900 000 in concessions. This government’s strong financial management has set After reviewing the program, the government is the state up well to fund a sustained program of determined to broaden the eligibility criteria by lifting infrastructure construction. Over the past decade the that threshold to $600 000 from $300 000, with a state saw considerable revenue growth, which was phase-out at $750 000. Again, this is very welcome outpaced by increases in government expenditure. news in all electorates, certainly in regional electorates, Without action, the growth in government net debt and it will be taken up by all and sundry. The review would have become unsustainable. As we heard from found that pre-existing provisions in stamp duty previous speakers, we are now starting to make some of legislation meant that the scheme currently favours those changes. Since coming to office, the coalition large multiple title and multiple farmer transactions. government has implemented savings and new, targeted The decision to increase the threshold will see more revenue-raising initiatives totalling approximately young farmers receive the maximum concession. $2.4 billion in 2013–14. We have achieved this while ensuring that the quality of Victoria’s front-line services I will now touch on the first home owner grant. As part has been enhanced. We have also been able to make of the 2013–14 budget, the amendments in this bill will significant reforms to state taxation. This bill includes support first home buyers and job creation in the key budget measures that support economic growth and housing construction industry by increasing the first deliver prudent financial management. home owner grant for newly constructed homes to $10 000 and bringing forward the 40 per cent stamp I will begin with the stamp duty exemption for young duty reduction. That will take effect from 1 July 2013. farmers. Agriculture drives the Murray Valley region. It is not like our federal colleagues with the Gonski There is no doubt about the value agriculture adds to report, who have tried to suggest that they will bring in the region. The average age of farmers across Australia all these wonderful things by 2019 and way into the is about 66 to 68 years. It is very important that we look future so that we will never see them. These changes

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are going to take effect immediately, and that is what will be lost forever. It is important that our industries this government is proud of — making decisions that continue to stay viable. The dairy industry has been will change things for the better for our communities deregulated. There is no artificial assistance in those and changing them as soon as we can. This is an agricultural areas. We need to do what we can by example of that. cutting red tape, making the fire services levy fair and giving stamp duty concessions to young people. The Bringing forward the 40 per cent duty reduction will Australian dollar is coming down, and that is a good see eligible first home buyers save up to a maximum of thing. It has rained, and that is also a good thing. Our $12 428 on the purchase of a home from 1 July. To local communities can now start to prosper, and this offset the cost of these new measures the current first government will give them the opportunity to do so. I home buyers grant for the purchase of established commend the bill to the house. housing stock will conclude on 30 June, bringing Victoria into line with New South Wales, Queensland Ms HUTCHINS (Keilor) — I rise to speak on the and South Australia, and I think that is very important. State Tax Laws Amendment (Budget and Other This is about targeting the grant to newly constructed Measures) Bill 2013. The bill makes a number of homes. It will promote more housing construction and amendments to various acts in order to put the budget lead to more employment, greater housing supply and in place. The following changes will be considered in reduced residential price pressure for Victorian this bill: firstly, the congestion levy expansion; families. That is very important when we look at secondly, the first home buyers grant policy changes; flow-on effect — that is, if we can continue to get the thirdly, the amendments to the Duties Act 2000; and housing sector back on its feet, whether it is in regional fourthly, a clarification of the fire services property Victoria or metropolitan Melbourne, we will be levy. Whilst Labor does not oppose the bill, we have creating those jobs that we hear about from opposition some significant concerns about problems in relation to members, who all the time keep carping that we are not some of the decisions that have been taken by the coming up with enough jobs. That is exactly what we Treasurer and by the government in making changes are doing. We are getting on with creating jobs, and we that go to the core of increasing the cost of living for are doing it creatively and in a way where people will many Victorians, particularly those in my electorate really see the benefits. We are very proud of those and in the outer suburbs. changes. First of all, I will touch on the expansion of the In terms of the congestion levy, the second budget congestion levy which in effect increases the levy by measure in this bill implements changes which will 37 per cent, taking it from $930 to $1300. Previous help to fund improved public transport and road speakers have said that is as little as $1 per day, but infrastructure. It is important that although there will be when we look at it in the context of all the other charges changes to the congestion levy — a levy that has been and increases that this government has put in place in place for a long time but will now be increased — through previous budgets and this budget, it is not just we will endeavour to use this money on public transport $1 per day; it is compounding all the cost effects going and road infrastructure. It is about using the money that on to the daily, weekly, fortnightly and monthly is generated in those areas. It is important that we do budgets of those who are struggling with the cost of that. The bill will amend the congestion levy to living from day to day. The congestion levy is an even incorporate short-stay car spaces and increase the levy bigger kick in the guts for those living in the outer rate to $1300 from 1 January 2014, equivalent to less suburbs given recent announcements by the Minister than an extra $1 a day for a long-term parking space. for Public Transport about increases to public transport costs and the 8 per cent slug on fares that has come into I am running out of time, Acting Speaker. I thank you place. The cost and the lack of service is driving more for the opportunity of an extension, but I will move on people onto the roads and not doing anything to ease to my summary because many of the changes that will congestion. made through the provisions of this bill are very important to the people in my electorate of Murray The government has failed to outline exactly where the Valley. The young farmers concession and the first congestion levy is going to be spent to improve public home owner grant are particularly relevant to our transport or to improve road infrastructure to ease community. Regional Victoria is reliant on this congestion and particularly ease congestion for those government to make sure that we can create a level who are travelling long distances from the outer playing field and an opportunity to do business. If we suburbs to go to work every day and who do not have lose too many young people we will lose the dairy much choice in public transport options, who find it industry and the peach and apricot growers, and they hard to get a car park at a station close to them in order

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to get a train that gets them to work on time — if they that for the many Victorians out there who are currently can rely on that train not to skip stations and make them in the market looking for land and homes, this change is late or actually turn up on time. going to make a really big difference.

Sitting suspended 6.30 p.m. until 8.02 p.m. It is also important to place this in the context of the Outer Suburban/Interface Services and Development Ms HUTCHINS — Before the dinner break I was Committee’s report from its inquiry into the livability speaking on the State Tax Laws Amendment (Budget options of outer suburban Melbourne, which had and Other Measures) Bill 2013. I was touching on some almost 100 recommendations and is as thick as a phone of the effects of the 37 per cent increase on the book. The report found that there is a real need for congestion levy, which will mean an increase from investment in the outer suburbs, to which this $930 to $1300 per year. I was astounded to read in government has failed to commit. On one hand the Hansard that when the congestion levy was debated in Treasurer is saying, ‘If you want to get the first home this house in 2005 the current Premier said that the buyers grant, you have to build on new land’, and on Labor government of the time was using the congestion the other, ‘But at the same time we are not going to tax as nothing more than a greedy grab. invest in all the needs that are out there in the community with regard to new roads, new public It is not so far down the track, but things have changed transport, new hospitals’ — all the absolutely essential dramatically in terms of the greedy grabs that have things that are needed by first home owners to lead a come out of this last budget. Those greedy grabs decent and livable life. Yet again the government is include this congestion tax, which is ripping money out failing Victorians — unfortunately mostly those who of the pockets of commuters and hard workers — live in the newer areas of the outer suburbs. These particularly city-based workers who travel from the issues are compounded when combined with the outer suburbs on Victorian roads. They are the same congestion levy. roads in which there has been no investment in the budget and for which there have been massive cuts to I would like to refer to the Real Estate Institute of maintenance programs, while there is no future vision Victoria’s press release of 29 April, which looks at the investment in public transport, as is particularly effects of these changes in the budget on first home demonstrated by the lack of commitment around buyers. In the press release CEO Enzo Raimondo says: Metrolink. The majority of first home buyers — around 70 per cent in Still on the topic of the congestion levy, I would like to the March quarter — prefer to choose established homes. turn to one of the specific changes in the budget addressed in this bill — that is, that car park users in Yet again this government is just pandering to the wants and desires of the developers, its mates who Docklands will no longer be exempt from a 50 per cent decrease in the levy. That will now be lifted. I am sure contribute to its campaigns, to make sure that these people are pushed into the outer suburbs. In my area of businesses, in particular the retailers and restaurateurs the outer western suburbs there has been a 28 per cent of Docklands, will feel the effect of the dramatic change in cost to local car parking that will be placed growth in population over the last four years, with very little investment in infrastructure in the last two and a on those visiting the precinct. In addition to the pressures of the financial cycle we are in I believe this half years under the coalition government. will take those businesses backwards. It brings total It is the same across the board in the outer suburbs — if shame on this government and its budgetary actions. the issues dealt with in this budget and this bill are combined with the congestion charges and changes to I will move forward to touch on the amendments proposed by this bill on the first home buyers grant. the first home buyers grant, members will see that the cost of living is bearing down on these people, and the The changes are quite significant and a little shocking lack of resources and services by the government only in their focus. I say ‘shocking’ because the changes emphasise that if you want to access the first home serve to compound these issues. buyers grant you will have to prioritise buying a newly I would like to refer to a document released just weeks built home. This is despite the fact that 70 per cent of ago by the Property Council of Australia called first home owner purchasers buy dwellings that are Supercharging the Victorian Economy — Ideas for already established. This cuts out a whole lot of people Reform, in which there is a whole chapter on from the market. In his media release of 28 April the congestion charges. In the biggest possible font on Treasurer claimed that this will make the dreams of page 32 it quite clearly states: many young Victorians a reality. I can tell members

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Congestion charging would need to be packaged with a new children, a major Bendigo Hospital for our regions and structure for public transport fares. countless upgrades and new constructions. There are This is exactly the track on which people in the outer too many to mention. suburbs need this government to focus. They do not While the state Labor opposition continues to carp need broken promises. They do not need to see this about what needs attention and swans around arm in government break the promises that it took to the last arm with the Construction, Forestry, Mining and election, at which time it committed to protecting Energy Union, the coalition government is out there on Victorian public sector jobs and increasing the the front foot delivering more services. Let us be clear: efficiency of government services by getting a better without efficient transport our networks and our state deal on behalf of taxpayers. In fact all we have seen is would grind to a halt. We saw that recently when a more fees and charges affecting those in the outer truck accident on the Bolte Bridge seemed to close suburbs — — down the whole road network in that sector. One of the The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! tunnels was also closed recently, and there was sheer The member’s time has expired. chaos. We have the foresight to look forward, the courage to commit and the financial ability to make it Debate adjourned on motion of Mr ANGUS (Forest happen. The east–west link will be the jewel in the Hill). crown for Melbourne’s road network. However, that is not all; there will be more. We will have 8 new Debate adjourned until later this day. X’trapolis trains, 40 new V/Line carriages and 50 new trams. This government has a balanced approach and a APPROPRIATION (2013–2014) BILL 2013 commitment to preparing for the future.

23BSecond reading In education there is a further $203 million to cater for Victoria’s growing population. In terms of community Debate resumed from 30 May; motion of safety we continue to roll out protective service officers Mr O’BRIEN (Treasurer). (PSOs) on suburban train stations, and we are committed to more police and upgraded police stations. Mr McCURDY (Murray Valley) — I am delighted We are not compromising on our law and order to continue my contribution on the Appropriation platform. Clearly we are building for growth, getting (2013–2014) Bill 2013. This government has set its tough on crime and increasing our spend in key health priorities, and it is delivering a balanced approach that and welfare areas, while all of the time living within our has credibility. This coalition government has means. This is unfamiliar to the opposition: living credibility, unlike our dear friends in Canberra, I might within our means. The federal government cannot do it add. This government has an exceptional track record. in Canberra, but we can do it here in Victoria. We score 10 out of 10 on delivering for our communities. This is in contrast to Canberra. It is Let us look at regional Victoria and the great Murray amazing that the federal government is spending money Valley. The centrepiece is a $1 billion Regional Growth that it does not have and is then blaming a lack of Fund. This is the shining beacon that sheds light into income. The federal Treasurer, Wayne Swan, is acting every pocket and every corner, no matter how large or like a tenant from hell with less than 100 days till small. From Wangaratta to Wilby, from Rutherglen to eviction, while the Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, is Whorouly and from Cobram to Katamatite this fund is demanding that the next tenant explain how it all will an example of how to manage mo. We all know how to be restored. It is bizarre. multiply, and we all know how to grow our assets, but this is leveraging. It is taking $1 from the hard-earnt of Thankfully Victoria is in safe hands, and this Victorians, adding commonwealth money, adding government delivers on what it has promised. Let us private sector money and turning it into $3. We are not look at the broad context of Victoria in terms of magicians, and we are not borrowing it. It is called finances. We have reined in the net debt forecast by the leveraging. We have taken $300 million from the previous government’s ad hoc approach, and we have Regional Growth Fund and we have turned it into secured stable financial management and the outlook $900 million worth of projects. By the end of next year for it to continue. We are committing a record we will have turned $500 million into $1.5 billion $6.1 billion in infrastructure, which includes worth of projects. That is fantastic. Regional Victoria is $4.8 billion in health. We are delivering the most up and off its knees and halfway down the straight ambitious investment to Victoria’s hospitals in a already, thanks to this initiative called the Putting decade. This includes a new Monash hospital for our

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Locals First program. That is what we do best in the Let me return to the wonders of the Murray Valley country. electorate because I know you are all wondering about the great Murray Valley, which is bordered by the The Numurkah hospital is in the great electorate of Murray River to the north, the foothills of the great Murray Valley, a community that was absolutely Victorian Alps to the south and all through the middle savaged by the floods in 2012 and wondered if it would we have agriculture. There is also value adding to ever see its hospital return. Jackie Phillips and her agriculture, which is just as important as agriculture board continued to lobby me and the Minister for itself. We have tourism, we have manufacturing and we Health to restore this community asset. The Minister for have a benchmark wine industry that produces some of Health verbally agreed that we needed to rebuild and the finest wine that Australia has to offer. If members that we should rebuild. He received the support of the do not know that by now, they should come and visit Premier and the Deputy Premier. Steadfast in their and see how great the Murray Valley is. resolve, they said they would return this hospital to the Numurkah community, and they delivered. We have I know the member for Benambra passes through the trust in our leadership and trust in the regions. The area quite regularly, and he constantly tells me what a leadership knew what was required, and they returned great part of the world it is. Yes, we have had our ups those resources back to our communities. Budget day and downs. We have had floods that have hurt farmers 2013 will be remembered in Numurkah as the day the and townsfolk in equal proportions at Tungamah, sun began to shine again — the day we had real dollars Wilby, Telford, Katamatite and of course the bookends committed to a new facility. The irony is the demolition of Yarrawonga and Numurkah. This budget will assist of the old hospital started just last week, so within agriculture both at the farmgate and with the weeks of the budget being announced we are getting on value-adding sector in the Murray Goulburn with the job. Co-operative, Bega Foods, Brown Brothers and Campbell Wines. They are all part of the retail sector There is an acute facility in the new hospital, as there that will grow at the same speed. was in the previous one. It will also include 16 multiday beds, 6 same-day treatment spaces, a theatre suite, and We can now follow that yellow brick road, the road urgent care and imaging services. In addition a from the regions right down to the port of Hastings, the two-chair dental service will be provided. Outstanding final piece of the puzzle for our exports, because we thanks should be extended to a committed coalition will need the port of Hastings as we grow and as government. These are real facilities, which our value-adding in the agricultural sector grows. communities need to survive. There is no desalination plant in our budget, there is no wasted money on failed Have I told members about funding for maintenance of poker machine sales and there are no pipelines that the roads? create jobs but have no real meaning or purpose. An honourable member — No. An honourable member interjected. Mr McCURDY — Let me tell members about the Mr McCURDY — I hear an interjection about roads. We will continue to honour our commitments to protective services officers (PSOs). Someone from the regional people. The coalition government is delivering opposition believes that PSOs are a waste of money. No an extra $170 million to fix Victoria’s roads, some of wonder the Labor members are in opposition if they which are in the shires of Moira and Indigo and the think that PSOs are a waste of money. Every dollar great rural city of Wangaratta. Under the previous spent by this government has been carefully government our roads and bridges were left to appropriated because we know how to manage money. deteriorate and decay. The Napthine government is There are so many projects that we could not fit in. determined to slowly but surely bring our roads back Rome was not built in a day, but in time Victoria will at and restore them to what they used to be. This extra last get on that road to recovery. We will be back, but $170 million will be delivered over three years and is we will not be driven by a lazy, inconsistent, hard-hat on top of the $160 million allocated to 40 regional wearing, hi-vis Labor Party that when in government councils over four years. This is what planning is all believed that if you throw enough money at someone, about. It is not policy on the run, as happens in they will reward you at the polling booth. Victorian Canberra. This is a planned, organised, progressive state Labor learnt that in 2010, and I suspect the federal rollout of much-needed infrastructure in our regions Labor will learn that in September 2013. that local government authorities can plan and manage.

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Let me talk about the fire services levy. If ever there After 11 long years of neglect we are turning Bendigo was an unjust tax, an unfair system and a blatant around. Despite that member’s negativity, I have a disregard for rural and regional Victoria, we should great belief in the people of Bendigo and that Bendigo look no further than the fire services levy. The previous is a wonderful place to raise a family. government slapped regional Victoria in the face when it introduced this unfair taxing system. Yes, Finally, I have enormous faith in our Treasurer and his metropolitan Melbourne was affected as well, but not to team to make changes as they are required. It is easy to the same extent as regional Victoria. This tax to fund hand out money that does not belong to you — our emergency services was previously only paid by borrowed money that is not yours — but it is far more those who insured their properties. As Robin Hood difficult to reel in out-of-control spending. This stole from the rich and gave to the poor, the Labor government is responsible and accountable. We have government robbed those who were insured and delivered a budget with a $225 million surplus and we sprinkled those funds across the emergency services. will deliver on the $225 million surplus, as we have For many years regional Victorians were paying a with our previous surpluses. Our AAA rating is another higher rate than those in metropolitan Melbourne who great thing that we will maintain as we move forward. were insured. Regional Victorians carried the bulk of this burden. I am very proud that this year’s budget We have managed to provide new infrastructure and a finally rights those wrongs. The new fire services levy record spend in health while not compromising our law and order platform. In 2010 the people of Victoria finally sends a clear message that all Victorians share this cost and therefore all Victorians will share this load screamed out for a law and order platform. They said, going forward. The property-based levy is being ‘We want Victoria to be safe. We want our children to imposed on all property owners via local government be able to feel safe. We want our elderly to feel safe. and is a logical, fair and sustainable way to fund this We want everybody to know our community is turned around and that thugs will be dealt with’. Our law and important service. order platform is absolutely outstanding. There are As I mentioned earlier in my contribution, the Murray 1700 new police and there are PSOs at train stations. As Valley electorate is home to the Murray River, we roll out more PSOs, people will feel safer at more magnificent winegrowing, fishing, camping and various train stations and they will use more public transport other tourism-based opportunities. This budget delivers after dark. It will be a win-win situation for all. over $8 million to continue to promote regional Victoria. As the Australian dollar comes down This budget is one that I am very proud of. As the Australian tourists who previously were taking overseas member for Murray Valley, I can say it delivers for trips based on the advantage of a high Australia dollar Murray Valley and delivers for regional Victoria, but on the whole all Victorians can feel very proud of this will now allow that dollar to flow back at a faster rate into our regions, and we want to be ready for that. I am budget. I commend the bill to the house. grateful to the Minister for Tourism and Major Events Ms D’AMBROSIO (Mill Park) — I join this debate because she is prepared to spend money to make sure with a sense of despair for my electorate and for the we get the tourist dollars back into our regions. When state of Victoria. We have a budget that has a different the dollar was at parity or higher international sponsor but makes the same savage cuts to basic destinations were very affordable, but with the recent services which our community needs and deserves. drop to as low as US92 cents — and it may go even Instead of making things better for our community, lower — this will change, and we will be there to take everything this government touches, everything it does, advantage of that. I am very grateful for the $8 million makes things worse. It has made things worse in our that is to be spent promoting rural and regional Victoria schools, in our hospitals and in our ambulance service. to all Victorians and Australians and even international It has made things worse on our roads and on our buses, visitors. trains and trams. It has made things worse on our This budget is a time for Victorians to rejoice. It allows streets, in our suburbs and in our towns. In fact I find it them to look forward with comfort in the knowledge hard to find any significant redeeming features in this that we are again on track, both financially and with government’s program over the last two and a half strong leadership. The sad tales that the member for years, and the budget for the next year does not give us Bendigo West tries to peddle in this place are simply any real hope that things will improve. untrue, but they are a reflection of Labor’s core values. I concede that some things have changed in Victoria, Bendigo West needs a representative who is proactive but we must not let that fool us. We might have a new rather than one who whines and moans about things Premier and a new Treasurer, but the essence of this that are not being achieved at the speed she would like.

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government is the same. It is the same uncaring, These cuts have occurred on top of massive blow-outs out-of-touch, mean-spirited government that has no in ambulance ramping and response times across the sense of purpose or vision to guide Victorians through state. What was the Premier’s response in question time tough times. in the last sitting week and today when confronted with multiple instances of delays in ambulance services? Let us have a look at the record as it is and what we During the last sitting week he blamed the ambos. That have to look forward to. Not long ago the Napthine is the way of this uncaring Premier. He is a brawler at government released its latest hospital data for the heart and blames somebody else when in fact it is the March quarter. That data was released after the government that is the problem. It is always somebody appearance of the Minister for Health at the Public else’s fault when it comes to this government. The Accounts and Estimates Committee’s (PAEC) budget paramedics sitting in the gallery during the last sitting hearings so that he could not be questioned on the week knew that, and every other Victorian knows that disastrous state of emergency and elective surgery as well. services. There has been a further blow-out in the number of Victorians waiting for elective surgery. That Victoria’s paramedics are overworked and number is now a record 5500 waits across Victoria, underresourced; that is the reality. They are faced with with 1849 people on the waiting list at the Northern logjams at emergency departments because this Hospital alone. This government waited until after the government is failing to fund the beds it promised to minister’s appearance at a PAEC budget hearing to fund and which are needed to serve our growing release that data, and we can see clearly see the community, including my electorate, which has a disastrous result that has occurred on this government’s burgeoning birthrate. The government does not want to watch. know about the burgeoning birthrate in areas such as my electorate, which needs more funding in its health Despite a minimum target of 79 per cent of category 3 services, not less. Because this government is the patients in emergency departments being treated within problem, it is giving communities less. Paramedics 30 minutes, only 56 per cent of patients at the Northern need backup from this government; they do not need Hospital were treated in time. Despite a minimum blame. Patients need responsive ambulance services, target of 90 per cent of ambulance transfers occurring not delays and increased risk to life and wellbeing. within 40 minutes, only 59.7 per cent of patients at the Northern Hospital were transferred within time. Despite When we look at schools, we see that the record is no a minimum target of 80 per cent of elective surgery better. The Liberals’ $70 million cut to education is category 2 patients being treated within 90 days, only putting at risk $4 billion of federal Better Schools and 48 per cent of patients at the Northern Hospital were Gonski funding for Victorian students. Even today in treated within optimal time. Is it any wonder that when question time we again heard the commentary from you rip a further $210 million out of the health sector in members of this government — ‘What’s the hurry?’ — this budget things will only get worse, not better? in terms of signing up to Gonski. Government members have no plan and no idea, and they do things to suit The government’s answer to this crisis in our health themselves rather than the Victorian community. The system has been to produce yet another savage cut to hallmark of this government is playing politics ahead of health funding. This is not leadership by a new Premier; what is best for Victorian schools, Victorian children it is negligence. The Napthine government simply and Victorian families. cannot manage hospitals and patient care and, what is more, its members really do not care. That is the reality Schools across the state are being underfunded by the of the situation. By every measure our health system in Napthine government only spending an average of Victoria is going backwards when we look at the $203 million a year on capital works, compared to an Northern Hospital, which services my community. average spend of $469 million in Labor’s last term of office. The Napthine government has cut education Some $826 million has been ripped out of our health funding three years in a row, a record not to be proud system in two and a half years, an enormous amount of of. money. This is not fixing the problems, as this government said it would do when it was elected. The The government has also said that it would reverse its government itself is the problem. These figures should mean-spirited decision not to continue funding the come as a big wake-up call, and unfortunately we have School Focused Youth Service funding, which has all come to realise that is the case. lapsed. The School Focused Youth Service aims to prevent kids from disengaging from school and other important parts of their lives and helps to prevent

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truancy, homelessness, substance abuse, mental illness my electorate of Mill Park, work in the automotive and suicide. However, there is no replacement funding industry. It certainly was a black day for those families for the service in this budget. Welfare agencies in my two or three weeks ago, yet the Premier’s response was electorate raised this concern with me last year. They to offer a measly $9 million in adjustment support. had received word that funding would not be renewed Labor offered $30 million; we matched the federal for this life-saving program. government’s funding allocation announced around that time. Apprentices across the state have also suffered a blow in this budget because the Napthine government is The government has offered no jobs plan whatsoever, scrapping the $20 million trade bonus for apprentices, and it is offering no hope to these people who will be which will see skilled apprentices no longer eligible to facing job losses and retrenchments come 2016. In receive the bonus at the commencement of their contrast, Labor has a plan to use the buying power of apprenticeships. The Napthine Liberal government’s government departments and agencies to ensure that failure to adequately fund the Victorian education jobs stay in Victoria and that the services and sector is very real; make no mistake about it. The automotive sectors continue to be strong contributors to government’s cuts demonstrate to families in my the Victorian economy. These policies form part of electorate that they cannot trust the Premier and the Victorian Labor’s Plan for Jobs and Growth, which Liberals and their coalition partners, The Nationals, was released last year and outlines 67 practical and with their children’s education. It is as simple as that. affordable initiatives that will secure Victoria’s economic future and begin to undo the damage caused Jobs? There is no mention of how many jobs the by this government. As I said, the Leader of the Liberal government would create in the coming Opposition announced three weeks ago that a future financial year. Government members have given up Labor government would allocate $30 million from the before they have even started. They have given up 2015–16 period to assist the retrenched Ford workers in making an effort or talking about it — two and a half both the Geelong and Broadmeadows areas. years in government, and no effort. Government members have abandoned the jobs target, and in the After gutting $1.2 billion from the TAFE system in last face of numerous announcements of workplace year’s budget and restoring a miserly $200 million, closures, there is still no government plan for what it only $5 million of which will be spent in the next will do to address the critical issue of jobs. 12 months, the Premier has made his position clear: education and skills do not matter one iota to this The only thing the government has done is deliver government. On top of the damage to TAFE, the budget thousands of job losses in the manufacturing sector and presented the other sitting week has seen the following the public sector, jobs that Victorian families depend impacts on skills training: $20 million has been upon for their income and their services. You cannot dropped from the apprentice trade bonus program; trust this government to protect and create jobs to help apprenticeship enrolment numbers are expected to drop ordinary Victorians tackle the cost of living. Almost by 10 000, or 16 per cent, on last year; and the 30 000 more people have been forced onto the much-vaunted TAFE Reform Panel package will only unemployment queue in Victoria under this deliver $5 million in capital funding for the whole government. There are now over 172 000 Victorians TAFE system in the next financial year. without a job, an increase of over 27 000 since the 2010 election. In two and a half years Victoria has had a There are more and more cuts, but I need to move on to decrease in the number of people in jobs. a number of other issues in the very short time I have left. Cuts made to concessions by the Napthine Under the Premier, Victoria’s unemployment rate government, and this is a very important area, have increased from 5.4 per cent to 5.6 per cent in March, seen ambulance funding drop from $416.1 million to and youth unemployment is at a staggering 18 per cent. $406.1 million and education concessions drop from Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics $138 million to $124.6 million, which is a indicate that Victoria is now in recession. The situation $13.4 million cut. The Napthine government has also has become worse in the last two or three weeks with restricted retrospective claims to concessions to the terrible, gutting news of the closure of Ford’s 12 months for gas, electricity, water and property rates, vehicle manufacturing plants in Victoria. Ford’s which amounts to a cut of $55 million. This is a mean Broadmeadows plant near my electorate helps support and tricky government, a world away from the the automotive components industry in the northern openness, transparency and ‘no spin’ promised in its suburbs. I can say that more than 1000 families in the early days. ‘Cutting the cost of living’ and ‘Fixing the federal electorate of Scullin, which encompasses all of problems’ — these elaborate promises were made but

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soon fell away. Eligibility for automatic energy promote over on this side. We have funded eight new concessions has been capped at $2763 for the annual X’Trapolis trains. With eight new trains you can electricity concession and $1462 for gas bills over six increase services, and we have already increased them months, a cut of $44.3 million. by more than 1000 so far. Not only does this benefit the Gembrook electorate but it benefits the Bass electorate Mr Katos interjected. as well, and it makes sure that people from that area get home on time. We have 40 new carriages for V/Line Ms D’AMBROSIO — I do not think I will be currently being built, and 50 new trams were funded in having a heart attack before you. Expressed in dollar this budget. Again, that is 50 new trams to keep people terms that cap means that some Victorians will be hit moving around Melbourne and getting home on time. harder than others. If you are just using electricity rather than dual fuel, you are likely to hit the cap sooner. If One of the great investments we have made in my you have a large family with young kids and live in electorate is the $25 million for the Dandenong train poorly insulated home, you will be hit harder. The line and additional services. I am looking forward to the government must explain how this is fair to families. member for Cranbourne getting up and talking about this one, as well as the members for Narre Warren Ms Wooldridge interjected. South and Narre Warren North. I am sure they will be Ms D’AMBROSIO — The Minister for out there with media releases talking about how good Community Services, who is at the table, wishes to this is for their communities. It is fantastic that we can interject, but the minister described the government cuts increase the number of trains on the Cranbourne and to a family’s utility and rates concessions as an effort to Pakenham lines and that we can improve the signalling streamline the administration of concessions. I do not systems to make sure that they run on time every day so know how honest that is; it is certainly a supreme act of people can rely on them and use them more. The more spin. That is what we get from this government. You people we get on the trains the less people we have on cannot believe what it says. Government members the roads, which is obviously good for everybody. claim to support families doing it tough, yet they are Another investment in my electorate is the extension doing everything but. and duplication of Cardinia Road. We have put I could go on, Acting Speaker. I am distraught that I $9.4 million into the duplication of Cardinia Road, have only got 15 seconds left on the clock as I could go which is absolutely fantastic. It was an election a lot further. We have also seen a massive cut to the commitment, and it will ensure that we are prepared for Consumer Affairs Victoria budget. There has been a the growth that is occurring in the area as new schools de-escalation of $26.2 million in two years — — and estates are developed, rather than having to wait for so many years like we did to get Clyde Road fixed. The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! Getting it fixed now is costing so much because the The member’s time has expired. former government had to buy back the land rather than planning in advance. It was something that it was told Mr BATTIN (Gembrook) — The best thing about about many years ago. listening to members on the other side is that they never let the truth get in the way of a Labor story. That is Everybody has spoken about the east–west link. If you what we have heard from the members on the other want to hear about a jobs plan, there are 3200 jobs in side. They were talking about the cuts, they were the east–west link, and that is a fantastic opportunity. talking about everything else; however, we want to talk One of our other big commitments is to make public about Victoria’s economy. We want to talk about transport safer, so we are continuing the rollout of building for growth. If you want to talk about growth protective services officers (PSOs). It is absolutely areas, my electorate covers an area that has one of the astounding that people on the other side still want to highest growth rates in the state — the growth corridor talk the PSOs down. Go down to local station and have through Pakenham and Berwick — and we are doing a chat not just with the PSOs but with the people who everything we can to ensure that we are ready. catch the trains and ask them how much better it is when they get home at night and the PSOs are on the As more people move into the Casey and Cardinia railway station. Commuters can feel safe when they get municipalities we want to make sure the train system, out and walk to their cars or walk home if they live just which was neglected under the last government, is at a around the corner. The PSOs are making sure that stage where it can operate effectively and get people people feel safe within their community. It gives people moving so they can get home from work and have more the confidence to get on the trains. Again, it is more time with their families. That is what we are going to people off the roads and onto the public transport

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network where they should be. We have improved taxes and bushfires, and they will all happen in the public transport, and we will continue to improve it. Gembrook electorate. It is important that we are prepared for fires in my electorate, and it is important In education, we are talking about growth in Officer. that we support the Country Fire Authority (CFA) and We are not talking about waiting for the growth to its volunteers. It is also important that we have a fair happen so that all of a sudden there are another system to fund it. There has been much commentary for 10 000 people out there. With $11.5 million in this many years around the introduction of a fire services budget we are putting a secondary college in Officer to levy that is fair and funded by all Victorians. The prepare for those people moving into the area. The system we have put in place is a property-based fire building of those houses has not yet started, but this services levy, which means that every household has to government is on target to start building a new contribute towards the CFA and the Metropolitan Fire secondary college so that as people move into the area Brigade. We want to make sure they are on call when they have a new school to go to and they do not have to fires or disasters happen, and it is important that they relocate. This coincides with a special school that we are funded correctly and fairly throughout the state. committed to in a previous budget and which will open next year. What a fantastic education precinct we will There is $61 million for CFA station replacements and have. There will be a special school next to a state upgrades. I have already seen the effects of this in my school, which will give kids in both of those schools the electorate, including at Yellingbo with Paul Spinks and opportunity to mix socially and benefit not only his team, at Hillcrest, at Warburton with Tony van educationally but also by blending into the community. Meurs and at Berwick with Alan Boyd. They have already seen upgrades or rebuilds of their stations, and We have also put $6 million towards the Emerald we want more throughout the electorate. Many of these Primary School, and the principal, Mark Carver, is stations are not just about the CFA, and they are not just absolutely ecstatic. He has been waiting a long time. there for when there are fires; they are community The member for Monbulk was very happy about it. He hubs. If you go up to Westbourne and Millgrove and had been planning to visit the school to have a chat chat to the CFA volunteers, they do not just talk about about it; however, he decided to cancel the visit when the fires that come through; the stations are hubs for he realised we were funding it, which was something their communities. Westbourne and Millgrove stations the opposition could not do in its 11 years in have barbecues every Tuesday. They are in low government. What he did not realise when he said he socioeconomic areas, and the barbecues give people an would go to the school was that it had termites. That opportunity to eat and have a chat. There is a chaplain was one of the first things I saw when I visited the there, and there is a genuine community feel. That is school after I had been elected to Parliament. I what the CFA is about. It also supports the local promised the school that no matter what, I would markets to ensure that people can go safely into the car campaign until it got the funding. The school now has parks. They do it for a very small fee, which goes back the funding, and we are looking to make sure not just into what has already been built and towards some of that it is a great school but that the community facilities the new equipment. I will continue to fight for the that will be built within the school will enhance the upgrades, and I will continue to speak to the head of the Emerald area. CFA to ensure that Millgrove and Westbourne are adequately resourced with what they need for the We are not just talking about schools in coalition areas. future. There is funding for schools in Doreen, South Melbourne and in Melbourne’s west. These are schools In relation to law and order, I spoke before about within Labor Party electorates that we do not hear much protective services officers. I think this is probably one about from members of the opposition. It would be nice of the best changes we have seen in crime prevention in if they could talk about some of the positives within Victoria. We now have them at Narre Warren station, their electorates, and about how good it is that this which is just outside my electorate but on the same government is delivering in their electorates when they railway line. I have seen firsthand the effects the PSOs had failed to do so. have had at Dandenong railway station. I was a police officer in Dandenong, and I have recently spoken to I want to talk about managing Victoria’s bushfires some of the boys down there; they said they threat. My electorate includes the Dandenongs and infrequently get called to Dandenong station now. They areas up into Warburton where bushfires are a very real do not get called on very often in the evenings or at the risk. We also talk about that risk in Cockatoo. The top weekends, whereas formerly they were called out quite end of my electorate was affected by the Black regularly during those times. That was almost Saturday fires. In Victoria we have three things: death, guaranteed when you worked there. Now the

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worst-case scenario for those police officers is that they the street and domestic violence. There are people who have to go down to pick up an offender who has been would not have reported a crime previously because picked up on a warrant and who probably would not they thought there would be no action. By having extra have been picked up if it had not been for the PSOs. police available and following up on reports that are coming through, people are encouraged to report crime, In addition we have PSOs at Pakenham and Berwick. and that is very important. Just prior to the election it was sad to see that at Berwick, which has been my home town all my life, Jobs and investment go together, but you have to add to there was an incident where a gentleman at the railway that the $1.6 billion port of Melbourne extension. That station was hit to the back of the head with a bottle and is not just good for jobs during the extension process; it his laptop was stolen. That is what we want to prevent. is good for our exports and imports and creates jobs on You do not need to see that sort of thing in the media. the docks. It also creates jobs on farms because we can We want people to have the confidence to walk to the increase our exports. railway station and hop on a train safely. At Ringwood station there has been a $66 million We have also had upgrades to the police stations in Sale upgrade, which has led to a $500 million private and Somerville, and the stations at Carrum Downs and investment in the area and 2000 jobs in Ringwood. Mount Waverley have been upgraded so that they are There has been $66 million from the state government now manned 24 hours a day. The member for Mount to upgrade the Ringwood railway station. There are Waverley is sitting next to me, and we were talking PSOs on the station so people feel safe and now a about it earlier. Having a police presence for 24 hours a private investor is looking at $500 million to add to that day is very important — and that is in addition to the and 2000 jobs. That is great for the area. It is a fantastic upgrades we are already doing at the moment at result. The state government can take a bit of the credit Emerald police station, which is also going to be a for putting in the new station, but that is what has 24-hour police station. The upgrade to that station is not created the environment where people want to invest, just about having a Victoria Police presence around and it has created a further $500 million. because of the crime rate; it is about having police on the mountain to respond to any natural disasters or The first home buyers grant for newly built homes has emergencies at any time of the day or night. History increased to $10 000. That is great for Gembrook and tells us that bushfires do not only burn during the day; great for jobs in my electorate. If more people build as they also burn through the night, and it is important to land becomes available, then there will be more trades have police available in Emerald so that should fires coming in and more opportunities for people to work in come through, there is someone on the ground the local area. We are very keen on employing people straightaway. locally. We have the employment precinct in Pakenham, and we want to encourage people to invest There is $137 million for 357 new prison beds in the there. If houses are being built, we can create a local state including a 40-bed facility in Melbourne, and just workforce. recently we announced a further 500 beds at Ravenhall. We have never compromised in what we are doing in I know a lot of people in the Pakenham and Berwick relation to law and order. We have 1700 more police areas; it is a great local workforce. We have a huge coming onto the streets over our term of government, range of people in trades, in the professional sector and which is a record number coming through the academy. in investment. With all these skills in the Berwick and I believe that by 1 July we will have around 1200 police Pakenham areas, through Officer and Beaconsfield, on the streets doing what they do best. What you notice why would you not want to put your business in is that when you have extra police on the streets, extra Pakenham? Why would you not want to invest there crime is detected. The crime has always been there, but and build your business up, knowing that all your more will be detected and people will feel more workforce lives within a 10-minute or 15-minute drive comfortable about reporting it. It is a big thing if people from your business? are encouraged to report crime. I will continue to work with local, interstate and Mr Andrews interjected. international companies, encouraging them to come down to the Gembrook electorate to build their Mr BATTIN — I note the Leader of the Opposition businesses, whether they be factories, sales or anything saying, ‘Against the person’. Yes, it is against the else. It is important that we encourage the provision of person, and that includes domestic violence. People will more jobs in the local area. feel more comfortable to report crime, both crime on

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The final issue I wish to raise is the $8 million for the previous leader, who was sitting at the cabinet table China tourism strategy. More Asians travelling to when all these miserable decisions were made. Australia is good for jobs. In my electorate this is specifically true regarding Belgrave and Puffing Billy. The east–west link story is nothing but an attempt to Puffing Billy is one of the greatest travel icons; it is one dress this government up as a government of action. of the best things we have ever had in our state; it is a This is a prime example of the government misleading long-term investment. The government has invested Victoria. The Napthine government knows that $4.3 million in Puffing Billy, the highest level of Victorians will not be using the east–west link tunnel funding it has ever received from the state. Soon putting for decades. The state government has pledged just a new Puffing Billy train on the line will be considered. $294 million for a $6 billion to $8 billion project — This is all good for investment in the area. If we have that is, less than 4 per cent of the toll road’s total more tourists coming across from Asia, that is great for estimated cost. The Napthine government is expecting our local economy. Having more people walking the balance to come from the federal government and through the main street of Belgrave — or going up to the private sector. It did not submit a business case to Gembrook, at the other end of the Puffing Billy train Infrastructure Victoria. Because of its laziness, it did line — spending money in cafes, buying souvenirs and not conduct a proper business case process but now it having a nice lunch in town supports local jobs in my screams that the federal government could jeopardise electorate, and that is what I promised I would stand up the project if it refuses to contribute $1.5 billion to the for. toll road. This is incompetence at best. No sensible federal government would provide funding without a This budget is all about investment. It is all about detailed business plan. creating an environment for private investment. Investment, private or public, builds growth. Most At a projected construction cost of just under three importantly, it creates job opportunities for ordinary times the cost of CityLink, the tolls for the tunnel Victorians. would need to be at least three times the cost of an average trip on CityLink if investors are to be attracted Mr PERERA (Cranbourne) — I rise to speak on the to the project. Unfortunately this will not be a good and Appropriation (2013–2014) Bill 2013. The delivery of equitable solution for our road users, and it will not budgets says volumes about the character of a sitting happen in the foreseeable future. government. The reality is that resources are limited. Therefore budget funding priorities showcase what a What we are seeing in this budget is the government government stands for and who it actually represents. taking money from much-needed services for With this budget, like the previous two budgets of the Victorians, cutting public services to the bone. It cuts Baillieu government, the Napthine government has the trade bonus to save a paltry $20 million. It cuts proved that the Liberal-Nationals coalition lacks the $69 million from the education system and is vision to take the state forward while delivering to all recalcitrant about the Gonski reforms — reforms that Victorians, not just its conservative base or the wealthy the public education system and my constituents are end of town. eagerly waiting for, reforms that would lift the standard of education of the majority of Victorian children, It is sad to see that the Napthine government does not reforms that minority wealthy conservatives prefer not have a sound jobs plan for Victoria. It is no wonder jobs to have. growth is forecast at only 0.5 per cent for 2013–14. The government should explain that to the many working This government fashioned something called a families in my electorate. It is no surprise that youth structural adjustment fund — money to induce unemployment has skyrocketed year after year under campuses to merge and to downsize. Only a fifth of the this conservative government. As this Liberal-Nationals money the government took out of the system — only government did not invest for its last two and a half $5 million this year — went into capital projects. years in office it is no wonder the Victorian economy Meanwhile TAFE campuses are closing in Lilydale, was growing at the appallingly low rate of 1.5 per cent. Kyneton and Greensborough, 2000 TAFE staff are The people of the Victorian community soon found out losing their jobs and young people are being denied that the Baillieu government’s do-nothing stand was opportunities. These are institutes that could have been costing them jobs, and therefore they quite rightly used to retrain mature adults when they lose their identified it as a one-term government and were waiting jobs — just like the Ford employees. No wonder the impatiently to get rid of it at the next election, so the Premier is hiding when Ford employees are losing their government got rid of its leader and recycled a failed jobs.

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An additional $210 million was cut from the health prime land to a developer mate and leave students, budget, taking the total cuts since this government was teachers and the local Seaford community in the dark. elected to $826 million. That is enough money to fund After a fierce campaign by the local community 165 000 elective surgery procedures. The coalition including media coverage the then Premier and his government was faced with the biggest health crisis in Minister for Education did an about-face. Leading up to generations after taking millions of dollars out of the the 2010 election the then Labor government pledged health budget. The waiting list is still growing by over $300 000 to kick off the modernisation of Seaford 125 names a week; it is the longest on record. Not a Park Primary School. Again, after three conservative single cent has been allocated in the budget for those budgets, we see no money for that school. 800 so-called new hospital beds; there has been a $1 billion cut in much-needed services. However, this The purchase of land for the construction of the government can find money for an additional proposed Cranbourne South West primary school has 357 prison beds this year. vanished from the Napthine government’s radar. It was listed in the 2012 budget; however it has omitted the These budget priorities clearly indicate what the purchase in this year’s budget. What a slap in the face Liberal-Nationals coalition stands for, and that is less for the growing young families in the Cranbourne area money for education, training and skills development. who are expecting this land purchase and subsequently This means hanging our young people out to dry. The the construction of the much-needed Cranbourne South government knows well that these cuts will lead to West primary school, which was the hope of people in more and more average Victorian youngsters getting the south-west of Cranbourne because the Cranbourne into unsavoury activities and hence getting into trouble West Primary School is over capacity. Exactly the same with the law. The government is building more and things happened in the dark days of the Kennett more prisons; probably thinking building prisons is a government. Members will remember that the Kennett vote winner. government sold the former Frankston North Secondary College site to developers. Fortunately the Victorians are paying more in taxes, fines and fees than incoming Bracks government bought back the site and at any time in our history. State taxes are up converted it into a beautiful park for the Frankston $900 million to $16.5 billion; GST revenue is up North community. $300 million to $11.3 billion; total revenue is up $2.2 billion to $50.3 billion. Speed camera fines will Locally we are seeing teachers sacked and increase by $38.3 million to $325.3 million in total, much-needed training programs cut from the famous something which the coalition when in opposition William Angliss Institute in Cranbourne East. Why? described as revenue raising. Stamp duty is up Because of this government’s savage cuts to TAFE $290 million to $3.46 billion; vehicle registration fees funding. are up $60 million to $1.24 billion. Locally we are seeing Casey and Frankston hospitals’ waiting list for The Gonski reforms — what can I say? The Napthine elective surgery growing very quickly. Patients are government is walking away from an average spending a record length of time waiting in the $1.8 million boost for every Victorian school under the emergency departments of Casey and Frankston national plan. The Premier has put the wishes of Tony hospitals with vital ambulance response times in Abbott and the federal Liberal Party ahead of the needs Cranbourne and Frankston now much slower. of Victorian school children. He should stop playing politics with the needs of Victorian students and sign up Cranbourne Secondary College is one example of many to these very important reforms. schools in Melbourne’s growth corridors like Cranbourne that have missed out on vital development We are seeing a further $16.1 million cut from the funding in this state budget. The last three budgets have Department of Transport, Planning and Local contained no funding for the final stage of the Infrastructure. This is in addition to the $439 million Cranbourne Secondary College. This was a school already cut from the old Department of Transport. funded by the Labor government — $8 million for There is no provision for the extension of the stages 1 and 2. Cranbourne Secondary College Cranbourne railway line to Cranbourne East and the currently has 1330 students and is near capacity due to construction of the much-needed railway station in the rapid growth of the local area and an increasing Cranbourne East, committed to by Labor in the lead-up demand for local schools. to the 2010 election with a promise of $200 million. There is no provision for new bus routes in the Nine months into government this state government electorate from Carrum Downs to Cranbourne; a direct wanted to close Seaford Park Primary School, sell the bus route would enhance the movement between the

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suburbs of Cranbourne and the industrial area of person will see the logic in this. Victoria Police Carrum Downs. Frankston area crime statistics reveal that the total crime rate jumped 11.5 per cent in the Frankston area Road asset management funding has been cut by alone. $5.7 million at a time when road users are screaming for the upgrade of arterial roads in the Cranbourne Mr THOMPSON (Sandringham) — The current electorate. The notorious intersection of Wedge Road budget delivers important benefits to the Sandringham and Frankston-Dandenong Road in Carrum Downs was electorate. Of greatest importance is the investment of identified by Labor in 2010 as needing a significant some $6 million towards the upgrade and maintenance upgrade to improve motorist and pedestrian safety. of Sandringham College. Sandringham College was a Subsequently $6.6 million was committed in the flagship reform of the then Labor government in 1988, lead-up to the 2010 election. We have taken up the when four schools were converted into one school community’s fight to have this intersection improved. across three sites. The Hampton High School site was We have lodged a petition with the Liberal government sold off by the then Labor government and is now a signed by more than 1100 residents and calling on the residential development. The Highett site became a Premier to fund the repair of this intersection as a 7–10 secondary college. The Holloway Road former matter of urgency. Instead of taking action, the Premier Sandringham Technical School became an 11–12 and his Minister for Roads have turned a blind eye to senior college campus, and the Beaumaris campus of community concerns, potentially putting motorist and Sandringham College is a 7–10 campus. pedestrian lives at risk. The government knows very well that this is an important intersection. The former In recent months there has been much debate about the Premier, the member for Hawthorn, visited a Hindu future of the college and its teaching programs across temple in the electorate, and at a meeting a former 2002 the three campuses. I am very pleased to note that there Liberal candidate requested him to consider funding is an ongoing commitment by the school to its three this intersection. The government knows very well that campuses, with a proposal to conduct a science it is important, but it is turning a blind eye. academy and a sports academy across the two junior campuses. The reinvestment of $6 million into The duplication of Thompsons Road, between Sandringham College will provide an important Westernport Highway and South Gippsland Highway upgrade to the school. Historically it had been regarded and between Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road and as a school that had achieved excellence in the Berwick-Cranbourne Road is still missing in action. performing arts and in a range of vocational education The Labor government invested over $50 million to and training and Victorian certificate of applied provide for the part duplication and triplication of learning subjects. In addition, students have accessed Thompsons Road, but there has been no action on the mainstream tertiary courses through the academic much-needed Thompsons Road duplication in three subjects taught within the school, and the school is years. currently also undergoing a transitional process with an increased focus upon achieving strong academic A further funding cut of $48.6 million has been made to outcomes. the Department of Justice allocation, bringing the total to $455 million, whilst both the Cranbourne and There is a new school leadership, and I pay tribute to Frankston area crime rates are at record highs. It is of the great work undertaken by Mr Ron Wakefield, the quite serious concern, as the previous Liberal school council president, in guiding the school through candidates for both the Frankston and Cranbourne a review of its educational course provision and the electorates ran a hard campaign on community safety. upgrade of its general facilities. It should be noted that The budget allocated money for the Carrum Downs there is significant need across Victoria for investment police station to increase operating hours from 16 to in the upgrade and maintenance of schools. A 24 hours a day, and the budget papers say it will $400 million-plus maintenance backlog has occurred, increase services to Langwarrin. The question is: when and I recall the days when I first entered this place the opening hours of a police station are increased, how when there was a $600 million maintenance backlog in can the services in Langwarrin be increased? Victoria. That was a statistic. It was only when you Langwarrin is about 16 kilometres away from the went to visit the schools and saw firsthand the damaged police station. What a stupid idea! If the government infrastructure — worn-out spouting, punched-in wants to increase the police presence in Langwarrin, it walls — and saw a learning environment that was not should provide more police resources to increase the conducive to strong academic attainment that you police presence in Langwarrin, not keep a police station understood what would be the result of a dereliction of open from 12.00 midnight to 6.00 a.m. No sensible a maintenance commitment. It is pleasing to note that

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this is a budget that will deliver an important outcome A matter of some controversy over the last few years in this regard to the Sandringham electorate. was the closure by the former government of the New Street, Brighton, railway gates. The New Street gates The government has already delivered on a are located in the electorate of the member for commitment for a new pedestrian crossing in Bay Road Brighton, and I note that they also serve some 60 per in Sandringham, which is providing an important break cent of the Sandringham electorate. There were in the traffic in Bay Road. Additionally there was a complaints by traders in Hampton Street following the modification of traffic movement in Bay Road, which closure of the gates that there had been a massive uplift has seen significant increases in recent years with the in delays and that significant bottlenecks had occurred implementation of a 40-kilometre-per-hour speed zone within the Hampton Street shopping precinct. proximate to the Sandringham East Primary School. By Furthermore, there was a build-up of right-turning virtue of this school not abutting Bay Road, it was traffic at a number of junctions along Beach Road, adjudged by the former government as not being in an notably within my electorate at Bridge Street in appropriate position for it to introduce a Hampton, which stemmed the free flow of traffic to the 40-kilometre-per-hour speed zone — albeit that the city at peak time in the morning. Highett campus of Sandringham College had over 400 students, Sandringham East Primary School had A side aspect of this was that with drivers seeking to over 400 students and the senior school itself had well avoid the build-up of traffic and the bottleneck it was, over 600 students — and that there was not a case for in my view, a danger to the commuter and recreational speed modification in this particular area. It took a cyclists along Beach Road at particular times of the day coalition government to introduce that speed through lane changing by drivers. The reopening of the modification. gates will re-establish a pathway for local traffic that has operated for over 120 years. I understand works Recently I had occasion to attend the official opening of have been undertaken over some significant time now. the Livingston Kindergarten, which had been modified The government will fulfil its election commitment, inside and out as a result of a $230 000 state with works due to start in August and to be completed government grant to the school to prepare its towards the end of the year. This is an important local classrooms for its classes of four-year-old and measure and a reform that will be funded by the budget. three-year-old children. There are three groups of four-year-olds and two groups of three-year-olds that In a larger sense there is also the infrastructure that will are built around 15 hours a week of preschool result from the government’s commitment to build the education. east–west link. There is some $6 billion to $8 billion committed for the leg of the project which will run Last month I also had occasion to attend a launch by the from Hoddle Street and connect with the Tullamarine Premier of an announcement of $100 million being Freeway, with an underground tunnel forming part of it dedicated to the Frankston railway line, which will as well. Interestingly, when a number of people from allow an extensive upgrade of the line. It will improve the south of Melbourne commute to the north and signalling and enable X’trapolis trains to run on it with north-east it is possible for them to journey along Beach full vision of the signals from the driver’s cabin. There Road, make their way onto the Bolte Bridge and turn will be other important upgrades in terms of the off at Flemington Road, thereby providing a pathway to infrastructure being placed on the railway station the east. Once this project is completed it will facilitate platform rather than being concentrated in one area that the movement of traffic across Melbourne. provides limited opportunities to use all the doors of a train. At a number of stations improved coverage of the Under the coalition government there has been a platform area to protect against weather conditions will massive commitment to the ports of Victoria. Some also facilitate swifter access to and egress from trains. $1.6 billion has been committed to the port of This is an important development in improving the Melbourne. The east–west road works include access to Frankston railway line and its service reliability. the port of Melbourne in a way that will improve the movement of freight and vehicles across Melbourne It is interesting to note that under the coalition and facilitate a more productive level of economic government there are over 1000 additional train activity. services across the metropolitan and regional network, providing stronger opportunities to improve commuter Further reforms outlined in the budget include the fire transport options. services levy reform, which is one of the most far-reaching reforms emanating from the Treasury in Victoria in the past 50 years. It will remove the notion

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of a tax on a tax. It will spread the burden of the levy I will comment briefly on a few federal matters as we more equitably so that those who formerly did not take move towards a federal election. There was Fuel out insurance or those who underinsured will now be Watch, Grocery Watch, the cash for clunkers policy, obligated to pay their share of meeting the cost of fire the citizens assembly policy, a promise not to introduce services in this state. Those all represent significant and a carbon tax, a promise to deliver a budget surplus this important reforms to which the government is year, the Malaysia solution, the East Timor solution and committed. a ban on live cattle exports which was imposed and then withdrawn. Then there was the headline to an The following through on election commitments is article by Samantha Maiden in the Sunday Telegraph of important. A federal member has noted that the ethical 7 April which read ‘Julia Gillard’s $10 000 teachers outcomes in this state are a result of governments being bonus election pledge exposed as a hoax’. committed and true to their word in relation to what they deliver. Every now and again there may be In the present case the state budget is purposed to unforeseen exigencies, reasons or circumstances which deliver on political commitments. In the case of the mean it is not possible to deliver on a political Sandringham electorate these include the reopening of commitment, but perhaps federally we see the stark the New Street railway gates in Brighton and the reminder as to why there is little regard for aspects of delivery of $6 million to Sandringham College. Earlier political leadership when a government says one thing political commitments have seen the resurfacing of the prior to an election and then does another. There has play area at Sandringham Primary School, the been some debate in national terms and also in state introduction of traffic safety interventions in Bay Road terms regarding the non-delivery of political promises. and money expended to repair the seawall at Blackrock. Those are just a few of the measures that are part of the During my time in opposition in this place I saw result of efficient economic management and promises that included the reintroduction of a passenger responsible government in Victoria. I am pleased to rail service to Mildura; opposition to a desalination commend the budget to the house. plant; tolls not being used to construct new roads; the building of a rail link to Melbourne airport and a The ACTING SPEAKER (Dr Sykes) — Order! I tramline to Knox city; the introduction of safe injecting welcome the member for Bundoora and extend to him facilities in five locations in Melbourne; reducing the the flexibility provided to the previous speaker, if he time it takes an ambulance to arrive at the scene of an wishes to go there. accident from 15 minutes in 90 per cent of cases to 12 minutes in 90 per cent of cases; fighting to improve Mr BROOKS (Bundoora) — I thank the Acting Waverley Park as an AFL venue; the return of Speaker, and I surely will. This is a budget where it is 100 conductors to our trams; the phasing out of free not surprising that we have had such a lacklustre plastic bags by 2008; a requirement for all homes to contribution to the debate from the other side of the have 3-star showerheads and dual-flush toilets before house. I have been listening for the last couple of weeks being sold, which was to be phased in by the end of to members making contributions on this budget in the 2008; and putting an end to the use of the public purse house, and it has been very hard to find members from for inappropriate political advertising and promotion. the other side of the house who have been passionate enough to speak with great enthusiasm about the There was also a promise to set a target to increase the budget. This is the third budget this government has share of Victoria’s electricity expected from renewable handed down and it is another sorry tale of cuts, lack of energy sources from 4 per cent to 10 per cent by investment and of smoke and mirrors. 2010 — and the Auditor-General established in a report undertaken in the last couple of years that there was an I turn firstly to my electorate of Bundoora in the increase in renewable energy in Victoria during that northern suburbs. It is a great place which unfortunately time but that it was from 3.6 per cent to 3.9 per cent, has been neglected by this government. You need only not to 10 per cent. There was a further political promise look at the health system and the looming merger of the by the Labor Party in the 1999 state election to Austin Health and Northern Health services. In the past introduce family-friendly parliamentary hours, with the we saw the Kennett government go down the path of house to adjourn at 7.30 p.m. Those are just a number looking to sell off the Austin Hospital to real estate of matters in state political terms where promises were developers. Not surprisingly, under the new Premier made in the political process at election time and have talk has once again risen in the cabinet room of a not been fulfilled. merger between health services in the northern suburbs. No doubt there will be further talk of privatisation and

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rationalisation of services that will impact on patients in The ACTING SPEAKER (Dr Sykes) — Order! the northern suburbs. Shadow ministers.

I have had ambulance officers from the northern Mr BROOKS — Next election, Acting Speaker. suburbs talk to me about their concerns regarding the There has been wanton neglect of Greensborough endless response times in my area, including the College by this government and a failure to commit to problem of ramping at hospitals, which is something the rebuilding of that great school to reward the work of that is of great concern to me. Hospitals do not want to the committed teachers and school leadership team. I go onto bypass; the Austin is simply letting ambulances hope that one day this government will be able to see queue up. There is one account of six patients on past the party political skewing of capital funding for trolleys at the entrance of the Austin Hospital waiting school projects and look at school funding based on for health care. need rather than on whether or not schools are in Liberal marginal seats. That is what we saw with the TAFE cuts are also impacting on my local area, in recent allocation of $51.5 million of school terms of not just fee increases or the number of courses maintenance funding — the vast majority of that being cut but also the looming sale of the money went into Nationals and Liberal Party seats and Greensborough campus of the Northern Melbourne strangely enough avoided many schools in Labor Institute of TAFE. We are going to see the loss of a electorates. Not one cent of that maintenance money significant TAFE campus in the Greensborough area was spent in the Bundoora electorate, yet — and I think because of this government’s savage cuts to the TAFE I said this before — eight schools in the Premier’s sector. It sends a very clear message to families in my electorate somehow managed to get maintenance electorate that this government does not care about our funding. kids’ futures. Then there was the case of the maintenance audit of all This government has provided no capital funding in this schools for which this government was patting itself on budget for kindergarten infrastructure in my area. We the back and which found that 12 buildings at Horsham have seen the pressures under which kindergartens have College were in good condition even though those been placed in relation to providing 15 hours of care. buildings did not exist. One of them was a library Some of them are having to restructure the way they building that burnt down two years ago. Some serious arrange their sessions and groups in order to fit children questions must be asked about the quality of that audit in. In particular most of the kindergartens in my area report and how much it cost Victorian taxpayers. need capital funding in order to accommodate those children as well as the increasing demand for There is also the jobs issue. We have seen this three-year-old kinder. This government has not government simply watch as manufacturing jobs have provided one cent of capital for kindergartens. In fact left this state. There is no plan for jobs in Victoria. The the last time a project was finished in my area was Premier ran off to Wodonga when Ford announced that Yallambie Park Preschool, which was funded by the it was shutting up shop at Broadmeadows and Geelong. Labor government — — That is something that will have a massive impact on the northern suburbs, which has a range of industries The ACTING SPEAKER (Dr Sykes) — Order! reliant on automotive manufacturing in order to There does not seem to be a minister at the table. continue business.

Mr BROOKS — There are two ministers at the The east–west tunnel has been mooted by this table. government as its stand-alone, big-ticket infrastructure project. Some serious questions need to be asked about Mr Wynne — Here I am. this project — for example, in the budget the cost of The ACTING SPEAKER (Dr Sykes) — Order! If this project is estimated at $6 billion to $8 billion. I the member for Richmond would care to sit at the table, would have thought that was a very rough estimate for that would be fantastic. a serious infrastructure project being put forward by this government. I would have thought that taxpayers Honourable members interjecting. expected a government to know exactly what a project cost before it committed funding to it. Mr BROOKS — Shadow ministers, I think you mean, Acting Speaker. How much traffic will the east–west tunnel carry? People in my electorate want to know how traffic is going to exit from or enter the east–west tunnel in the

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city. Those questions have not been answered. What through its Gonski reforms. It is important to know the about the increased traffic that this tunnel may dollar figure that is being passed up by the Napthine introduce on roads like Greensborough Highway, government because of its reluctance to sit down with which runs right through my electorate? It is currently the federal government and sign up to an arrangement used as a main link between the northern Metropolitan on Gonski. We have also seen cuts to the Department Ring Road and the Eastern Freeway. People are of Education and Early Childhood Development and to concerned about the number of heavy vehicles using school support, which is having a real impact on that road and also Rosanna Road, which is in the Victorian students and families. electorate of my colleague, the member for Ivanhoe. What does this government intend to do if it goes ahead Earlier there was a discussion before in this chamber in with the east–west tunnel in terms of the impact of relation to crime rates. It is important to note that in the increased traffic, particularly trucks, on that road? Can last round of crime figures drug crime was up by the Victorian people trust this government not to 14.6 per cent. At the same time the Napthine impose a toll on the Eastern Freeway? I think we all government has cut 18 dedicated drug education know the answer to this question. This government is officers from the education department. These are the planning a big fat toll on the Eastern Freeway. people whose job it was to ensure that kids in our schools have the right education and skills to say no to In terms of education, a matter that is dear to my heart, drugs and that they understood the dangers of illicit unfortunately we have seen games being played by the drugs and avoided them throughout their teenage years Minister for Education in Victoria in relation to the and into later life. Those positions have been ripped out Gonski reforms. We have seen the Napthine of the education department; all 18 of them have gone. government, through the Minister for Education, trying to evade having to negotiate a good outcome for I have to give credit where credit is due: these positions schools in Victoria. We have seen him trying to play were created in the Kennett years, under the Turning every trick in the book to avoid signing up to the the Tide project. This was a reform, like the School Gonski reforms. We saw a very flimsy document put Focused Youth Service, that was introduced in the forward by the Minister for Education — — Kennett years and was a good thing. The Kennett government did a lot of bad things. I have to say that Honourable members interjecting. these programs were probably its only two good moves. We have now seen this government rip those drug The ACTING SPEAKER (Dr Sykes) — Order! education officers out of the education system. If I were Can we please provide the member for Bundoora with a backbencher on the other side of the house, I would the due respect he deserves as he delivers his speech? be asking the question in the party room, ‘Why did we That involves members on both sides of the house. get rid of these 18 drug education officers?’.

Mr BROOKS — Thank you, Acting Speaker, that The government’s decision to backflip on its position in is going to be difficult for some members on the other relation to the School Focused Youth Service and fund side of the house. There is no doubt that this the service was a good one. The government should government has run away from the Gonski reforms. It never have tried to abolish it in the first place, but at produced a flimsy document, the school funding reform least it got the decision right by re-funding it. I would plan, back in February, in which it put forward a argue that the case of drug education officers is another $400 million proposal which was a lot less than the one the government should look at re-funding. $3 billion that would be provided by the federal Gonski reforms. Strangely enough the government did not We have seen the cuts to the Victorian certificate of provide any funding in this budget to implement that applied learning, and I have mentioned the cuts to $400 million plan, so you have to question whether it is TAFE. The issue of regional network leaders is at all serious about school reform. In fact the budget something that is carefully picked up in the recent papers quite clearly prove that the government is not report of the Victorian Competition and Efficiency serious about school reform at all; it is simply trying to Commission on its inquiry into school devolution and obstruct that very important process. accountability. It makes the point that the middle layer of support for schools is vital to improving Victoria’s It is important for people to have an understanding of educational performance. In the report the commission what sort of improvement we are talking about; we are is talking about the sorts of supports that are provided talking about an average of around $1.9 million per to schools from the regional level, which have been school in Victoria. That is the sort of improvement and ripped away by this government. It is important that level of investment the federal government is proposing members on the other side of the house, who

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commissioned this report that has been put out for a waiting list. It provides a minimal service to those public comment, should carefully consider it because it families to help them out while they are on the waiting talks about the things that are important to improving list. One of the cruellest things you could do would be school performance. to cut that service to those families when they are going through a very difficult time and trying to get their The government has carefully danced around the issue children the services they need. I ask the government to that the minister and the Treasurer wanted addressed, reconsider these cuts because this budget inflicts a which was school autonomy, the charter school model range of measures on Victorian people which are cruel from the United States and the academy school model and short-sighted and which will mean many people from the United Kingdom. Why you would argue that will be worse off. you want Victoria to have a top-tier education system and then ask the Victorian Competition and Efficiency Mr NORTHE (Morwell) — It gives me great Commission to study jurisdictions that are below us on pleasure to rise this evening to speak in the budget the Programme for International Student Assessment response debate. From the outset my congratulations go rankings is beyond me, but that is what this government to the Premier, the Treasurer and the former Premier did. The Victorian Competition and Efficiency and Treasurer for their contributions to what have been Commission came back and spoke very strongly about two a half years of massive work to ensure that we the need for a strong middle level of support in the restore the budget and the fiscal management of this school system. state to what it should be.

I want to finish by talking about this government’s The coalition government inherited a number of factors values, particularly in relation to disability. I came that it has sought to improve over the last two and a half across an email the other day from constituents of mine years. This budget delivers on that and provides great who have a son with autism and an intellectual confidence to our communities generally and indeed to disability. They have contacted me about the cost of the business community that we are in a strong fiscal board and lodging, which the Napthine government is position, particularly when that position is compared increasing from $12 500 to $17 500 at his Department with those of other states and territories throughout of Human Services residential unit. On top of his Australia. One of the issues we have had to deal with is medication, his clothing and modest entertainment the write-down in our share of GST revenue. That has costs, their son also covers the cost of his day program been written down substantially over past years. Unless with his disability allowance. That day program costs you do something about your expenditure, you will end about $5000 every year. His parents have said that with up in a dire predicament, and that has been reflected in the increased cost of about $5000 for his the federal Labor government’s budgets of the last few accommodation it is likely that their son will not be years. It is worth acknowledging the fine work that the able to afford the day program, effectively meaning that Premier and Treasurer have done in delivering a he will be stuck in the residential unit and be unable to $225 million surplus, particularly in these tough fiscal access that program. They said that this would bring times. back the old days of the asylum as most clients would lack the necessary finances to pay for the programs. I will take up some points raised by the member for Bundoora. He raised a number of issues — criticisms of This is a cut, or an increasing cost, by the Napthine the government — particularly with regard to school government that will affect thousands of Victorians maintenance. On the one hand the member for with disabilities. I ask the government to have some Bundoora acknowledged the investment this heart and to reconsider this cruel increase in costs for government has made in school maintenance, but on people with disabilities. the other hand he seemed to claim that an unfair advantage was given to coalition members. I can Another aspect of these cuts and the way this inform the member for Bundoora that, like him, my government’s approach to those with disabilities is electorate was not the beneficiary of school impacting on people in my electorate is the fact that the maintenance funding. A formula was applied across the Kalparrin early intervention service in Greensborough, state of Victoria which was fair and equitable. The which provides early intervention for young children member for Bundoora also holds the view that the who have a disability, has not only not had any new Victorian government has not subscribed to the federal early intervention places funded in the last round of government’s Gonski reforms. The fact is that in funding but has also had its vital waiting list service cut. introducing legislation the federal Labor government This is a service that is provided to parents who have has not adopted all of the Gonski reforms, as it would not been funded for their children’s program but are on have us believe. The Premier and the minister will

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reflect fairly and equitably on what is presented to our did not insure their properties at all or underinsured government with respect to the Gonski review. their properties, they were not contributing fairly, so the property-based levy proposed by the government is a Finally, from a local perspective I object to the member system which has been embraced by regional for Bundoora’s view that there is not a jobs plan. I can communities. The tax on a tax on a tax element of that give absolute evidence from a Morwell electorate will be abolished, and we will have a far better and perspective that that is not the case at all. Indeed our fairer system. government is putting measures in place to ensure that we do have a very strong jobs plan for Victoria and For example, from a regional community perspective indeed for the Morwell electorate. It is interesting when some of our businesses might currently be paying you look at the budgets handed down by the Treasurer $1000 in insurance premiums. Under the existing here in Victoria as compared to those by the federal system you might be paying another $950 on top of Treasurer. Here in Victoria, despite the tough fiscal that, plus stamp duty, plus GST. All of a sudden the times, we have been able to rein in our expenditure. $1000 insurance premium ends up being about $2200. Many people, in particular economic experts, would We have long called for this situation to be addressed. It say, ‘It is not actually a revenue problem; it is an has been, and I congratulate all the relevant ministers, expenditure problem, and until you rein in that particularly the Treasurer, as well as the previous expenditure you are going to run into problems and Treasurer, for introducing this measure. The new create further debt’. That is the case for the federal system is welcomed and supported by our regional Labor government. communities.

Members need only look at the 11 years under the Turning to some broader announcements made in the former state government when expenditure was budget, the $170 million in additional funding for the increasing at around 8.3 per cent per annum. What we road maintenance program in regional Victoria is on have had to do to ensure that Victoria remains top of other announcements made prior to the budget. economically strong is contain that expenditure. In this All those announcements have been very much budget we are saying that we want expenditure growth welcomed. Our additional funding for disability to be around 2.7 per cent in comparison to Labor’s services and health services has been very much 8.3 per cent, whilst our revenue growth will be around welcomed. I take up another point raised by the 4.1 per cent in comparison to Labor’s growth of 7.9 per member for Bundoora, who seemed to criticise the cent. I will clarify those two figures: during Labor’s government for our funding of disability services. In 11 years in government there were average annual question time today we heard from the Premier about increases in revenue of around 7.9 per cent on the one the national disability insurance scheme (NDIS). If it hand and on the other hand expenditure growth was at was not for the Victorian government putting forward 8.3 per cent. As members would know from running an initial $25 million for the NDIS, we would not have households or businesses, those figures do not add up it being set up in Geelong. I am not sure where the and your debt is going to grow. The government has member for Bundoora was coming from with his sought to curtail that debt. particular argument, but we are very proud, through our budget, to have more money for health services and From our perspective, we have introduced some major more money for disability services. initiatives. The announcement of the east–west link has been very well supported by the community — and Our planned burning program across Victoria is very certainly by my local community — because coming important and was recommended by the 2009 Victorian from the east of the state we have to deal with some of Bushfires Royal Commission. Also of vital importance the bottlenecks that currently exist. This project has is the $8 million allocated for regional tourism been very well supported not only by the transport campaigns to make sure people are well and truly industry but by the business industry and the aware of the offerings of regional and rural Victoria. community more generally. It is a great project, and we We have also supported the first home buyers grants look forward to it coming to fruition. and job creation in the housing and construction industry. That has been very well supported in regional As you would know, Acting Speaker, from a country areas as well. perspective the dramatic change concerning the fire services levy has been very well received within our From a local perspective, some important regional communities. Previously the fire services levy announcements were made through the budget, with captured those who took out insurance, and only those $8.3 million provided for Clean Coal Victoria. It plays people contributed to the fire services levy. If people a very important role in assessing the brown coal

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resources that are prominent through the Latrobe Valley programs, and I can say from a local perspective that region. Funding for this particular organisation was due the Morwell electorate has done extremely well. For to cease, but it is important we keep its role going into example, we have what is called the Latrobe Valley the future. As I said, it plays an important role not only Industry and Infrastructure Fund, which makes in identifying brown coal resources in the region but $15 million available to local businesses that are also providing an economic stimulus to our community. seeking to grow and expand their operations and create new employment. Those businesses can tap into this There is $16 million for the Macalister irrigation fund. district, a wonderful program for the farming communities within the Gippsland region. Southern This government has made a number of Rural Water and farmers in that area will contribute to announcements, including announcing a $1.5 million this $32 million upgrade. Some $4.2 million has been contribution to the growing aerospace manufacturing at allocated to address some of the mine stability risks Latrobe Regional Airport, announcing $1.5 million in within the Latrobe Valley. Unfortunately in recent funding for Lion Nathan National Foods for an times we have had some issues relating to mine expansion of its facilities and operations, and stability. Our government is standing up and saying, announcing the allocation of close to $300 000 for ‘Yes, we are willing to help and support those particular Hydro Australia in Morwell to expand its operations. businesses, industries and the community to deal with There is also funding for Fisher’s pallet and wood some of those challenges and risks’. GippsTAFE has timber treatment plant in Morwell and for Stirloch been allocated $5 million to instigate some electronic Constructions in Traralgon. There is also funding for learning technology available in this day and age. I Australian Sustainable Hardwoods in Heyfield. know that initiative is very much welcomed by the local community. The member for Gippsland East, who is sitting in the gallery, and the chief executive officer of GippSport The important Traralgon night bus service will continue can talk about many programs. There is funding for in the next financial year. A lot of people from Sage Technology in Morwell, Pinegro in Morwell and neighbouring towns come into Traralgon on a Saturday Australian Paper. They have all been beneficiaries of night, and this important bus service enables a great programs through our state government outside budget number of people to get back to the neighbouring allocations. This funding seeks to create employment communities of Moe, Morwell and Churchill on a and new jobs in our region. These initiatives are in stark Sunday morning. The Traralgon Central Business contrast to what members of the opposition say — that District Safety Committee initiated this bus service, so is, that there is no jobs plan and no programs creating it is very supportive of its continuation. jobs in my region. I absolutely oppose that notion because I have just given many examples of programs Another very important initiative is the four new adult to which our government has been pleased to mental health beds in the Flynn unit within Latrobe contribute. Regional Hospital and the five-bed mother-baby unit at the hospital. This is part of a $9.4 million investment in Barry Switzer, the chief executive officer of GippSport, mental health services, particularly to assist women will be very pleased to know that other initiatives who have a mental illness at the prime time in their include the resurfacing of the Traralgon tennis courts. lives when they have new babies. It is important that This government has contributed $400 000 to that such women have local services available to them, so project and $75 000 to upgrade the Glengarry tennis this new mother and baby unit is very important. and netball courts. This government has also provided $25 000 to refurbish the Cowwar hall and money to A new multidisciplinary centre will be established in restore the Glengarry hall. We have also provided the Latrobe Valley to improve responses to sexual $320 000 to upgrade Yallourn North town reserve assault. The centre will take a holistic and integrated facilities and $140 000 for projects at Kernot Lake in approach through which police and support workers Morwell. A number of schools in my community will will deal with people who have been the victims of benefit from funding for primary welfare officers, and sexual assault. It might not appear to be a trendy there is funding for a new early learning centre at announcement, but it is very important for my local St Paul’s Anglican Grammar School in Traralgon. community. Some people might say, particularly those on the other side, that the cupboard is a little bit bare for There are also 60 additional police officers in the my electorate in terms of the budget, but that is not true. Latrobe Valley region. I was speaking with Inspector As you know, Acting Speaker, many programs are Mick West just last week, who said, ‘Russell, for the available through state government initiatives and first time ever there are no vacancies in the Latrobe

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Valley’. Whilst these may not be line items in the the minister then dissembled widely on a range of budget, they are indicative of the types of initiatives this subjects, none of which particularly addressed his government has contributed to my community, and failure to fund for both population growth inflation and they are reflected right across the state of Victoria. wage inflation, which shows again the lack of These and other programs show what is available for commitment to education in this budget. There are communities to tap into. Other coalition members have many ways to use the specific to try and trump the spoken about their particular highlights and initiatives. I general. We can look at individual projects but commend the budget to the house. aggregate numbers often tell the real story. Aggregate numbers tell what is really happening with resource Mr SCOTT (Preston) — In discussing the budget, allocation — what is really happening and what the real the first issue I would like to raise is education. Having priorities of a government are. I have not even touched sat through the Public Accounts and Estimates on the 7 per cent cuts to higher education and skills, but Committee (PAEC) hearings and had the honour of I will leave that to others who have covered off the cuts participating in that process, I also had the misfortune to TAFE. to hear the dissembling by the Minister for Education on the real cuts to education included in this budget. If We can then look at how this budget purports to be a members turn to page 74 of budget paper 3, they will budget that builds for growth. The headline project is see an output summary for education. That indicates the east–west link, which has $224 million allocated to that ‘School education — primary’ has received an it in the 2013–14 year, although the total cost is increase of only 1.5 per cent. Members would be aware somewhere around $6 billion to $8 billion, an allocation that in budget paper 2 the figures are given for both of approximately 3 per cent for that particular project, inflation and population growth. In 2013–14 population depending upon how you cut the figures. But then we growth is expected to be 1.7 per cent, the consumer can look at the underlying numbers for different types price index is expected to be 2.5 per cent and the wage of infrastructure investment and what is happening with price index 3.5 per cent. Whichever way you cut it, and infrastructure investment over time. Infrastructure whether or not you want to include wage costs, in real investment over time is not increasing; in fact the terms there is a cut to both primary and secondary budget papers predict a decrease in net investment over education. That shows clearly the priorities of this the forward estimates period from over $6.1 billion in government. debt down to under $4 billion. While under $4 billion is above depreciation, it is a significant cut and well There is a significant cut of over 2.5 per cent if you below the level of 1.3 per cent of gross state product, simply use inflation. It would be a higher cut if you which the government itself has identified through the used the figures that included wage costs, which are a interim Vertigan report. I will turn to that report later. significant part of the education budget. Whichever way you cut it, the priorities of this government are The interim Vertigan report identifies the required level shown by its willingness to cut education in real terms. of investment through the general government sector Education plays such a critical role not just in my and infrastructure. We therefore have a government electorate but across the state in ensuring equality of which, far from predicting a growing level of opportunity. I hope all members would believe this is infrastructure investment over time in order to build the so, but sadly the budget speaks otherwise. Education capital stock required for the provision of goods and should be funded in such a manner as to provide the services and transport infrastructure, is actually seeing a opportunity for persons, wherever they live in Victoria, fall-off — a significant drop — in infrastructure to have the opportunities in life to perform whatever investment over the estimates period. Obviously that professional role their abilities allow them to attain drop will have a very negative influence on the state, through the wonderful vehicle of education, which has and it makes a mockery of claims that this budget played such an important role in our history. builds for growth and builds for infrastructure needed over time. The budget is actually cutting infrastructure In response to this, the Minister for Education made investment over time. It predicts a significant cut in some extraordinary comments to the Public Accounts infrastructure investment over time, and that shows the and Estimates Committee, including: real priorities of this government.

The budget papers do not predict population growth. I turn to my own areas of responsibility, and in As members would know, budget paper 2 does make particular to WorkCover. WorkCover pays a dividend predictions for population growth. Projected population to the government, and this dividend was introduced in growth is on page 13 in table 2.1. At the PAEC hearing the last budget. However, we are already seeing significant decisions in the works that indicate what this

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budget means for WorkCover. An article of 9 June is has already expended, but unfortunately the facility has headed ‘Vic’s workplace health checks in doubt’. The been classified by the Department of Education and word I have from information inside WorkHealth is that Early Childhood Development as an over-entitled it may not be as dead as a dodo, but WorkHealth is facility and as a consequence the college receives zero certainly very likely to be cut. recognition from the department for the cost of utilities, cleaning, refurbishment or maintenance of it. The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The time appointed by sessional orders for me to interrupt I ask the minister to give that situation a second look. business has arrived. The member for Preston can The stadium is a very important piece of infrastructure continue his contribution when the matter is next before for the Hampton Park community, both for the students the house. and for the young people who are part of the Hampton Park Basketball Association and use the facility. It is Business interrupted under sessional orders. very efficient for a resource to be utilised in that way, and on behalf of the school community and the young ADJOURNMENT people who are trying to do what we as policy-makers want them to do, which is get involved in healthy team The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The question sports, I ask the minister to provide support to Hampton is: Park Secondary College to repair the stadium roof and That the house now adjourns. allow the students and the young basketballers to get on with being fit, healthy and involved.

88BHampton Park Secondary College: stadium maintenance 89BTourism: Surf Coast region

Mr PAKULA (Lyndhurst) — The matter I wish to Mr KATOS (South Barwon) — It is my pleasure to raise is for the Minister for Education, and it concerns rise on this evening’s adjournment to raise a matter for the stadium at Hampton Park Secondary College. This the attention of the Minister for Tourism and Major matter was first brought to my attention by Mr Geoff Events. The action I seek is for the minister to consider Reid, a constituent and parent of three boys who play any new and innovative initiatives to help raise the basketball with the Hampton Park Basketball profile of the Surf Coast region to encourage intrastate Association. For some time the association has used the and interstate visitors to visit this spectacular part of facilities at Hampton Park Secondary College for its regional Victoria. basketball competition, but it has been unable to use the The Great Ocean Road is one of the world’s most facility for the past few weeks due to a leaking roof that scenic drives. It officially starts at Torquay in my became apparent during the recent heavy rains and electorate of South Barwon and extends along the Surf highlighted the safety implications of the moisture that Coast to Apollo Bay, passes the famous Shipwreck has become a feature of the stadium. Coast and the Twelve Apostles and continues all the I should make it clear that the association’s exclusion way to Port Fairy. Tourism is an important industry that from the facility as a result of that leakage is through no contributes to the economic growth of regional fault of Hampton Park Secondary College. When the Victoria, and the Great Ocean Road is the gateway for college took over management of the facility from visitors and tourists to the Surf Coast region. The many Basketball Stadiums Victoria it was already in a state of stunning and historically significant towns and villages disrepair, and the college has undertaken and paid for make this region a mecca for tourism and attract some extensive refurbishment work at a cost of some visitors to a diverse range of events. These events $28 000 versus receipts of $10 000 from the leasing of include Toast to the Coast, a food and wine festival the stadium. The decision to close the facility for the held in the Surf Coast in Bellarine; the iconic Lorne time being was essential due to occupational health and Pier to Pub swim; the Apollo Bay Music Festival; and safety concerns. the Port Fairy Folk Festival.

The refurbishment that has been carried out so far is Tourism is a key industry within my electorate and acknowledged by all to be insufficient to rectify the indeed the wider region along the Great Ocean Road. problem. In fact the only thing likely to resolve the Townships like Torquay, the surfing capital of problem is a roof replacement, for which the school has Australia, have the reputation of being world-class received a quote of some $85 000. The principal of the surfing destinations, while nearby Bells Beach hosts the school, Mr Finnerty, is understandably not prepared to annual Rip Curl Pro, where the world’s best surfers sacrifice student programs given the money the school compete over the Easter period. Torquay is also the

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birthplace and home of iconic surfing brands that are The minister may also be aware that a Nationals known worldwide. It is important that marketing colleague of his in the other place, a member for initiatives continue to be developed to showcase our Western Victoria Region, Simon Ramsay, called for a region to attract visitors from not only across the state review of the broiler farm code in October last year and interstate but also overseas. because of concerns about the impact the current 500-metre buffer zone is having on neighbouring The Great Ocean Road attracts the highest volume of land-holders and farmers. Issues that the Baringhup domestic overnight visitors of any region in the state, community has raised with me include biodiversity with 2.4 million overnight visitors in 2012. Domestic issues; environmental and conservation issues; cultural overnight tourism expenditure in the Great Ocean Road significance issues; odour and waste; traffic region was $932 million for the year ending December management — the minister may be aware that just 2012. The Great Ocean Road also attracts the highest over two weeks ago a broiler farm truck crashed near volume of international overnight visitors of any region Newstead, with over 1000 chickens dying or having to in the state, with 149 900 overnight visitors bringing in be destroyed; noise; visual amenity; impact on $101 million for the year ending December 2012. waterways; impact on property values; tourism; cross-contamination; and the ongoing viability of local There have been huge advances in mobile technology small businesses. such as iPhones, iPads and BlackBerrys along with 3G, 4G and free wi-fi access. Many families access the The applicant has applied for a permit in what is a internet, email and social media when they choose a general farming zone, but the reality is that this holiday destination. The advent of social media has enterprise is a corporatised industrial factory, a fact seen the growing use of and reliance on digital media underscored by the 1.1 million birds being churned out and the growing need for the Surf Coast region to every six weeks, the 24 massive industrial-sized sheds, incorporate this technology into marketing campaigns the 338 extraction fans and the up to 500 000 dead birds and tourism promotions. I welcome the minister’s per year, as well as the up to 3500 additional advice regarding any proposed initiatives to tap into semi-trailer, B-double and other large truck trips per new media that could generate economic benefits for year on the shire’s roads. regional tourism communities and businesses along the iconic Great Ocean Road. I note that both the applicant and Damian Drum, a member for Northern Victoria Region in the other

90BPlanning: broiler farms place, have referred to the economic benefit of this development and to employment opportunities. This Ms EDWARDS (Bendigo West) — The matter I argument is completely implausible. The number of raise is for the Minister for Agriculture and Food ongoing local employees would be very small. The Security, and the action I seek is that he meet with reality is that if local businesses that currently employ members of the Baringhup community who are significant numbers of local people are forced to move increasingly concerned about the broiler farms that are out of the area, there will in fact be a net deficit in planned for the area. employment. There are already a number of businesses that collectively employ well over 25 people that are I recently tabled a petition with 1700 signatures openly stating that they will have to leave the district regarding this matter with the request for a review of and the shire should this development be allowed to the Victorian Code for Broiler Farms 2009 to address proceed in the designated location. The community of the loopholes that enable the construction of contiguous Baringhup does not believe that the location of these broiler farms without an environmental risk assessment broiler farms is appropriate in this area, and community (ERA) of the entire project nor an odour ERA to members would like the minister to hear their concerns determine the environmental impact of the project. In firsthand. The minister may also be aware that, as I the case of Baringhup, the code enables the said, in the case of Baringhup the code enables the construction of four contiguous broiler farms consisting construction of four contiguous broiler farms. of six sheds per farm with over 1 million birds at any one time. The residents are of the belief that the 91BMen’s sheds: Chelsea applicant has consciously structured the permit applications as four separate farms in order to avoid Mrs BAUER (Carrum) — I wish to raise an issue scrutiny by the Environment Protection Authority and for the Minister for Community Services. The action I to avoid needing an ERA. seek is for the minister to inform the house of upcoming opportunities for men’s shed funding. The Chelsea men’s shed is a community support program of

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Chelsea Care Works, the community services arm of 92BRail: Macleod station car park the Chelsea Church of Christ. The shed is a dedicated, friendly and welcoming meeting place where men Mr BROOKS (Bundoora) — I wish to raise a come together and undertake a variety of activities. matter for the attention of the Minister for Public Open to all men, regardless of age, background or Transport. The specific action I seek from the minister ability, Chelsea men’s shed is a place where skills and is that he fund the construction of the southern works knowledge are shared with others, as well as car park at Macleod train station. The Macleod railway opportunities to learn new skills or develop old ones. station car park has been a source of significant frustration for local residents, commuters and traders in Men of all ages in the Chelsea and surrounding the Macleod area because of the number of commuters community meet to participate in woodwork. I have who seek to park their cars at the station. It is quite a seen some of the lovely products that members of the popular train station. There has been a significant men’s shed make. They will often make or fix timber problem with overflow of car parking into the wooden toys for charity, repair and repaint toys for the surrounding area, which is impacting on traders, local Kingston toy library or make billycarts. They have residents and other uses of the Macleod area. Very made a Punch and Judy puppet show theatre, close to the train station there is a tennis club which is letterboxes for the local caravan park and picture used during the day, a preschool, a maternal and child frames for the local retirement village. There is also health centre and, as I said before, the Macleod Village metalwork and welding, gardening, computer training, shopping centre traders, who are in a lovely little home maintenance projects and counselling and shopping strip which does quite well. support services on men’s health and personal relationship issues, as well as referrals to agencies and It is quite obvious that the train station car park needs to groups that provide health, wellbeing and support be expanded to meet commuter demand. There is a services. section of the car park at the end, which is currently roped off, that is only available for the use of railway I always enjoy visiting the men’s shed and seeing what works. However, all the observers who have reported a difference it makes to the lives of participants. I back to me say this section is hardly ever used in any recently called in to a morning tea, shared a sausage or significant way. It is pretty much a vacant space which two and a cake with the participants and saw firsthand could be very easily sealed and used for commuter car how men of all ages who may be feeling socially parking. isolated or depressed or experiencing mental illness, loneliness or a disability enjoy the support and I ask that the minister investigate this matter on behalf fellowship. It is certainly a great place to learn new of constituents in my area and the commuters who use skills, it is always a hive of activity and I must admit I Macleod station to see if there is a cost-effective way of do love the smell of sawdust. increasing the provision of car parking for commuters. It would take pressure off the other uses of the area, Chelsea men’s shed has a partnership with Central which are currently experiencing problems with car Bayside Community Health Services, which provides parking. Recently I was contacted by Macleod local disability services and support. Attending the Preschool Centre because the council had to change its men’s shed provides men with a disability with the parking arrangements due to this problem. It is having a opportunity to be outdoors and experience friendship, real impact on my constituents — for example, young teamwork and taking pride in their projects. Another mums dropping off children or stopping at the maternal example of a successful men’s shed partnership is the and child health centre to have their children’s health Chelsea sustainable garden project. The area around the checked are being forced to park further way. People men’s shed and the church premises now has a pergola, using the park and its popular play equipment are mosaics, wooden seats and a beautiful garden area. Job unable to park close to the playground, which means seekers and young people from our local area worked children are having to cross the road with their parents, with the men’s shed to complete the project. creating safety issues.

During my recent visit members of the men’s shed This is an issue that has many flow-on impacts. Given asked me to investigate and advise them about the next the government’s cuts to bus services in my area and round of grants opportunities, as they would like to the reluctance of the government to invest in other build an extension over an area outside. I welcome the forms of public transport in the Bundoora electorate, I minister’s advice on upcoming opportunities for men’s see the construction I request as a fairly inexpensive shed funding. way of doing something to at least increase the provision of public transport services for people who

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use them and for the wider community in the Bundoora prepared to listen to their concerns. It is now time to area. move to the next phase of this dilemma, and therefore I seek the minister’s support. I have concerns for the

93BFruit growers: Goulburn Valley health and wellbeing of many of the growers, and until they have a clear plan, they remain vulnerable. Again, I Mr McCURDY (Murray Valley) — I raise a matter thank the minister for taking the time to meet with for the attention of the Minister for Agriculture and them, but I seek his support in any way he can provide Food Security, and the action I seek is that he outline it. what action the coalition government is taking to help growers affected by SPC Ardmona’s decision to reduce 94BCreswick Bowling Club: flood relief funding fruit intake by up to 50 per cent. As I have spoken about many times in this chamber, recently Coca-Cola Mr HOWARD (Ballarat East) — I wish to raise an Amatil, which now owns the SPC cannery, has issue with the Treasurer. I would like the Treasurer to delivered some terrible news to many fruit growers in follow up on requests from the Hepburn Shire Council both the Cobram and Mooroopna areas, and I have to meet with its representatives in relation to the been working with the member for Shepparton on the Creswick Bowling Club. The club was washed out in issue. Many of the fruit growers have been dealt a September 2010 and then, sadly, again in January 2011, savage blow and their businesses may not be destroying both of its bowling greens and its clubhouse. sustainable. Some have been told that they do not have The club plans to move. It has been very pleased to a contract anymore, so zero fruit is required from next receive allocations of funding from the state year onwards. Others have been told to cut their government of $900 000 to assist it. However, it has produce to SPC by 50 per cent. also sought funding from the federal government under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery This is on top of the fact that over the last two or three Arrangements. Initially it was advised by the state years many of the growers have been told to change government that it was ineligible. varieties to provide better ones for SPC. Some of their trees have not even yet borne fruit, so it has certainly However, the shire, along with the bowling club, put pressure on their cash flow. I have visited many of followed up with the federal member for Ballarat, the growers in the region over the last week, and most Catherine King, who then followed up with the federal of their problems are about financial viability in both Attorney-General, Mark Dreyfus, who wrote back the short and long term. The next issue is what to do indicating that it was possible for Creswick Bowling with the fruit trees. Obviously they need to be pruned Club to access the funding under special conditions, and sprayed now, but if the fruit is not going to be recognising that the club is a very significant required next year, the financial predicament of the recreational venue for people in Creswick, including growers is in trying to justify what they should do. If the older population, and that without the use of the this goes on further, the Queensland fruit fly will raise bowling club the community is severely impaired. its ugly head around October or November, and that is another issue for the fruit trees, which will affect the The Hepburn Shire Council has been trying to contact whole industry and not just those who are exiting it. the Treasurer to follow up on this matter. The club knows that the cost to move to the proposed new site at It is fair to say that these growers need support, Lindsay Park would be $2.186 million. That funding financial counselling and a chance to discuss a way falls short at the moment by about $800 000, which the forward. Many of the families are both confused and club is hoping to gain from the federal Natural Disaster concerned. Many of the farmers I visited simply do not Relief and Recovery Arrangements funding, but it even have the equity to close down their businesses wants to clarify that. The club urgently needs the properly. My understanding is that over 100 families Treasurer to meet with it to follow up on this matter and have been deeply impacted throughout the region, and I hopefully to support its application for the federal seek support from the minister, in this early phase, so funding so it can gain the full $2.186 million and go that growers can make a plan to move forward. ahead and get the full plans into action so the bowling club can be relocated. If the club cannot get this money, We need to make a distinction: cannery fruit cannot just it will try to work around it, but it means that instead of be used in the fresh fruit market. There are different having two bowling greens it may only have one varieties that are used for the cannery versus fresh and initially and lesser facilities in its clubrooms, which are export varieties. I was very grateful that the minister used for lawn bowls too. I urge the Treasurer to respond came to my region to visit growers last month. They as quickly as possible. I wrote to him last week, and I were buoyed by his visit and grateful that he was hope there will be a quick response.

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95BMount Hotham: medical services paid for by a patient or the cost borne by the doctors themselves. The difficulty in recovering the cost of Mr McINTOSH (Kew) — I have a matter for the consumables threatens the viability of the medical attention of the Minister for Environment and Climate clinic. I request that the minister consult with Change. The matter I wish to raise is the medical representatives of the Mount Hotham Alpine Resort services at Mount Hotham, and the action I seek is that Management Board to ensure the continued viability of the minister consult with the Mount Hotham Alpine delivering medical services at Mount Hotham. Resort Management Board to ensure it can continue to deliver adequate medical services at Mount Hotham. 96BCranbourne Secondary College: funding

Last weekend I had the great honour and privilege of Mr PERERA (Cranbourne) — The matter I wish to representing the minister at the opening of the 2013 ski raise is for the attention of the Minister for Education. I season at Mount Hotham. While there was only a call on the minister to take action and fund the final smattering of snow, it was a wonderful weekend of stages of the modernisation of Cranbourne Secondary activities. Regrettably the weekend was marred by College. The college is home to 1330 students, and it is tragedy. skilfully run by principal Ken Robinson and his very dedicated staff. An honourable member interjected. Recently I had the pleasure of visiting Cranbourne Mr McINTOSH — The member may not be Secondary College with the Leader of the Opposition in interested in this tragic event, but the fact is that there relation to the Napthine government’s non-commitment was a tragedy at Mount Hotham last weekend when a to stage 3 of the modernisation project for the college. young man suffered horrific injuries as a result of In government, Labor funded over $8 million for the slipping from a very high balcony. The young man completion of stages 1 and 2 of the college’s survived the fall and was conveyed to the Mount modernisation, one after the other. Hotham Medical Centre and treated by the dedicated team of doctors and medical professionals who In 2005–06 we announced, funded and completed stabilised him, enabling him to be evacuated by air stage 1, which involved the modernisation of the ambulance. Unfortunately the young man later died. college’s administration building, information While the accident was not caused by skiing, his technology area, general purpose room and music injuries were similar to those often sustained in skiing room. In 2009–10 we announced, funded and accidents. completed stage 2, which involved the modernisation of the college’s library, canteen, home economics facilities In treating the young man the doctors and nurses used a and arts facilities, the provision of additional staff significant number of what the doctors call administration facilities and the completion of the consumables. These consumables included intercostal music room. drain sets, waterproof seals, devices to enable breathing, defibrillator pads and assorted bandages and The college is screaming out for the final stages of tubes. However, the Mount Hotham Medical Centre is completion, which include the modernisation of the not a hospital, so these consumables have to be paid for remaining poorly ventilated, damp classrooms with by either the patient or the doctors personally. I asbestos tiles and the modernisation of the boiler-driven understand the cost of the consumables can amount to central heating, to name two much-needed thousands of dollars at a time. In the above case cost modernisation projects. I quote from a journalist, recovery will probably be impossible. Catherine Watson, in the Casey Weekly Cranbourne of 24 May: The doctors and nurses at Mount Hotham have to deal with the usual array of coughs and colds, but due to the With its peeling walls, leaking roofs, cracked floors and very nature of skiing many people suffer significant 40-year-old graffitied desks, Cranbourne Secondary College is no pin-up modern school for the state government. traumatic injury. I understand that last year at Mount Hotham approximately 1000 significant injuries Since the election of the Liberal-Nationals government occurred, requiring in some cases the injured to be the last three budgets have contained no funding for the conveyed to the medical centre and ultimately to final stages of the modernisation project, which would hospital. I understand also that the medical basically leave the college wholly modernised on consumables are normally covered in a hospital but not completion. I urge the minister to act and to fund the in a medical clinic. The Mount Hotham clinic is not a final stages to complete the modernisation of hospital, and therefore these consumables have to be Cranbourne Secondary College for the sake of its

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1330 students, their parents, the school’s staff and the I am proud of the business community in Bentleigh, Cranbourne community in general. which makes a significant contribution to improving local opportunities for others. In 2012 I hosted the

97BSmall business: East Bentleigh inaugural Marriott Cup vegetable-growing competition and invited primary school students to grow broccoli Ms MILLER (Bentleigh) — I direct my request to and learn about the importance of good nutrition. Local the hardworking Minister for Innovation, Services and fruiterers Tony and Helen Natoli, who the minister will Small Business. The action I seek is for the minister to meet on her visit, supported this important initiative. visit the Bentleigh electorate to meet with small The victorious students enjoyed a generous fruit platter business owners in Centre Road, East Bentleigh. and were invited to visit the Natoli’s fruit shop to enjoy a free fruit drink. This is just one example of East The East Bentleigh shopping centre is a historic Bentleigh traders contributing to important local shopping strip, with Rose’s shoe shop, Aldo’s initiatives, and I thank the Natolis for their support. I hairdressers and Fong’s Chinese Restaurant having invite the Minister for Innovation, Services and Small operated locally for many years. East Bentleigh traders Business to visit the Bentleigh electorate to meet with have faced challenges in difficult economic times. I small business owners in Centre Road, East Bentleigh. would appreciate the minister visiting the electorate to discuss with business owners the significant new 98BResponses reforms being implemented by the coalition government. Local traders would benefit from learning Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and about the projects which will boost Victoria’s Small Business) — The member for South Barwon productivity and competiveness and are creating a raised an important issue. The member, who has been a stronger economy. strong supporter of tourism in his electorate from the moment he was elected, discussed the importance of It was a pleasure to welcome the Premier to the tourism to his general area and in relation to the Great electorate earlier this year when he met with business Ocean Road as a whole and asked what innovations the owners in East Bentleigh. It was a fantastic opportunity government has in mind to help raise the profile of the to gain a further understanding of the experience of wider region. He made the valid point that these days small business owners and to discuss matters of people rely on a range of communication tools other importance to them. This ministerial visit would be an than old-fashioned advertising, and the tourism industry opportunity to meet with local businesses a few months needs to adapt to that. after the Premier’s visit and to discuss the benefits of the coalition’s third responsible budget. This includes I am delighted to inform the member for South Barwon ensuring that the state’s finances are managed in a that the coalition government has established a sustainable way while delivering a major infrastructure $350 000 Regional Cooperative Marketing Innovation strategy that will encourage economic growth. It also Fund. The point of this fund is to recognise that online includes minimising red tape to ensure that Victoria is a technologies and applications are an increasing part of competitive, low-cost place to do business. daily life and consumers are researching and booking their travel and accommodation online. They are using Despite its challenges, the East Bentleigh shopping smart phones and other digital media devices to centre remains vibrant, with a variety of businesses organise their itineraries as well as sharing their including restaurants, hairdressers, grocers, butchers, experiences on social media. In tourism we see a lot of not-for-profit stores, cafes, chemists, retail outlets, late decision making where people make up their minds financial services and jewellers, among others. We are where to stay and what to do once they have arrived in lucky to have a number of strip shopping centres in the a place rather than preplanning. Indeed the whole Play Bentleigh electorate, including Bentleigh, East Melbourne campaign is predicated on last-minute Bentleigh, Mackie Road, Chesterville Road, Patterson decision making and exploring to get the most out of Road and others. Having grown up locally, I am aware our fabulous city. I am pleased to advise the member of how important these local hubs are to families. It is for South Barwon that the Great Ocean Road region has important that the coalition continue to nurture these received $40 000 towards delivering free wi-fi at iconic strip shopping centres and encourage local trade. I locations throughout the region, backed by an congratulate the minister, who is at the table, on the integrated marketing campaign to promote awareness wonderful Streetlife grants program, a $6 million of these wi-fi hot spots. This is designed to initiative over four years to 2016 to help small traders accommodate the modern traveller. in community shopping precincts improve their business and retail management skills.

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I am further pleased to advise the member, as a trader groups and councils in their electorates to apply consequence of his inquiry, that other regional projects for these grants, which are now open. will be funded under this government initiative. There will be $40 000 to Destination Gippsland for a social I look forward to meeting with East Bentleigh traders in media campaign titled the Gippsland Gear Hunter, the Bentleigh electorate in the company of the member $35 000 to Grampians Tourism to produce and for Bentleigh, and no doubt we will arrange a mutually integrate aerial vision of the region for online and social convenient date soon to do that. I thank the member for media platforms, $27 500 to Daylesford and Macedon her ongoing support of small business and for the fact Ranges to develop an official digital visitors guide that that she fully understands how vital small business is to can be accessed by iPad or mobile phone, and $30 000 the economy of Victoria. I very much look forward to to the Yarra Ranges and Dandenong Ranges region to that trip. deliver free wi-fi at key locations, and I know you, Deputy Speaker, have been very supportive of that. Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Community Services) — It gives me pleasure to join the There is $25 000 for Destination Phillip Island to adjournment debate tonight and respond to the member develop a digital map, online imagery and video for Carrum about the Chelsea men’s shed. The content highlighting key attractions; $27 500 to the member’s contribution tonight clearly outlined her high Mornington Peninsula to integrate the publication Wine, level of commitment to, involvement in and Food and Farmgate into a social media and online understanding of the men’s shed program, particularly format. I point out that the member for Nepean has the contribution her local men’s shed makes to the been very strong in his advocacy on access to these community in terms of engaging men and the broader modern techniques for modern travellers. community in a whole range of activities. I give her credit for her involvement with the local group and with There is $40 000 to the goldfields region for a the many other groups in her electorate of Carrum. mobile-friendly version of visitballarat.com.au and a mobile phone application to promote food fossicking in The men’s shed movement has grown very rapidly in Bendigo, which I am sure both members for Bendigo recent years, and there are now more than 230 men’s will be interested to hear about. There is $50 000 for sheds across Victoria which fulfil an important role in Tourism North East for digital technology and a media our community. They establish social networks and and marketing kit for the iconic Falls to Hotham alpine work on meaningful projects. They enable people to crossing walk and $35 000 to the Murray region for learn new skills and also contribute to their digital technology. communities by being involved. What men’s sheds are particularly trying to make sure they achieve is that all Again, I thank the member for South Barwon for the men involved are able to remain independent, active raising the important issue of modernising the and healthy. They support social connectedness through advertising campaigns run by Tourism Victoria. These encouraging improved self-esteem, confidence, and innovative projects will ensure a wider awareness of physical and mental health, particularly for vulnerable regional Victoria’s many attractions and provide a men. They strengthen local communities by engaging better and more informed experience for visitors. men in volunteering, in working and in mentoring others. They also make sure there are further pathways The hardworking member for Bentleigh asked me to for education, training and employment for younger visit her electorate. She asked if I would cross over the men who need to develop relevant skills. border from East Brighton into Bentleigh, and of course I shall. She wants me to meet with various owners of In terms of the coalition’s funding I was very pleased small businesses, particularly those located in strip that we have committed $4 million for the shopping centres. Again, I thank her for her comments Strengthening Men’s Sheds program. I was also very about the Streetlife program. I have just signed off on a pleased to announce earlier this year $700 000 in letter to every member of this Parliament urging them funding that leveraged up to $1.2 million worth of to contact their local traders and councils in relation to investment for refurbishment and different initiatives in this grants program, which will support retail men’s sheds. These are things that allow men’s sheds to businesses. There are many threats to retail businesses expand to meet increases in demand as well as from online trading, and it is very important that the occupational health and safety requirements and ambience of our strip shopping centres is maintained. I disability guidelines. There are 36 men’s sheds that have written to all members of Parliament urging them access that funding for existing sheds to be able to to get behind this program and to encourage businesses, address some of those issues. This is the first time that

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men’s shed funding has been available for existing is very keen to have development in its shire. Loddon sheds to build on the facilities they have. shire is very keen to work with Hazeldene’s, which is a major employer in that particular area. It has a number I am very pleased to inform the member and the house of poultry sheds which create further employment in that within the next week we will be opening a new that area and it takes the grain that is produced in the round of funding for new men’s sheds. This will be area and value adds to it to make even more economic well over $1 million of funding to enable sheds to activity in that area. The issue of that development is access grants of up to $60 000 so that they can either being worked through with the Environment Protection construct a new men’s shed, redevelop an existing Authority, but I think it is in a farming zone. It creates building into a men’s shed or redevelop a building so employment and wealth in the area. If we were to look that a men’s shed can be co-located as a multipurpose at what Hazeldene’s contributes to the economy in the facility or hub. This will be another important electorate of the member for Bendigo West, we would opportunity for communities, and many members in the see that she should be very careful about how antijobs house have raised this initiative of wanting to expand she is in her electorate. men’s sheds in their communities. That opportunity will be available very shortly. The member for Murray Valley raised the issue of the growers in his electorate and in the electorate of the In terms of the member for Carrum’s interest in the member for Shepparton who have been affected by the Chelsea men’s shed, later this year there will be another cut in intakes of fruit by SPC Ardmona. I went to funding round for existing men’s sheds for them once Cobram recently with the member for Murray Valley again to be able to develop their facilities. This is and met with a number of his fruit growers and John because we had such a good response last time. Clearly Wilson from Fruit Growers Victoria. Fruit Growers we have to support both the existing men’s sheds and Victoria has surveyed the affected growers, and there the growth of the men’s shed program. are something like 114 growers who have been affected by the cuts by SPC. SPC has cut its fruit intake by up to I am very pleased that the coalition government has 50 per cent, and quite a few of the 114 growers now such a clear commitment to men’s sheds, to the have no contract at all with SPC. John Wilson and the important role they play in men’s health and wellbeing and the Victorian Farmers Federation briefed me last in the community and how they are integrated as part of Thursday morning on the work the organisations have the broader community infrastructure and assets. I am been doing with the growers around what the impacts also very pleased with the support of the member for will be. We are now working with them on how the Carrum for her local Chelsea men’s shed. state government can respond and what the possibilities Mr WALSH (Minister for Agriculture and Food are for the federal government to assist with this. Security) — I will respond to two adjournment items, I can inform the member for Murray Valley tonight, the first being from the member for Bendigo West, who and the member for Shepparton, who will be equally raised an issue about a review of the broiler farm code, interested about this because she has also been talking particularly in relation to a proposed broiler to me about the impact on the people in her electorate, development at Baringhup. A couple of weeks ago I that $100 000 will be made available for a package was at Eddington, which is not far from Baringhup, for which will be called the Goulburn Valley Support the Loddon shire business awards. Hazeldene’s Services Package. Affected growers will receive a Chicken Farms, one of the major chicken processors in personalised visit from staff from the Department of the area, was one of the sponsors of those awards. I Environment and Primary Industries. They will have a assume the Hazeldene’s plant is located in the member single point of contact for financial counselling, health for Bendigo West’s electorate, and I am surprised that and social services. There will be one-on-one visits she is so against jobs in her electorate. As I travel from departmental staff and referrals will be made to around and visit parts of the Bendigo West electorate I other agencies depending on the needs and the hear quite often that the member for Bendigo West is circumstances involved. very negative about any sort of development and really opposed to positive things that are happening in her This package will work with a number of other services electorate. in that particular area: the Department of Human Services; the Goulburn-Murray-Hume Rural Financial The Baringhup development, as the member for Counselling Service; obviously Fruit Growers Victoria; Bendigo West said, is in a farming zone. It is an issue the Ethnic Council of Shepparton, because that that is being worked through with the council, but I organisation will work with some of the different ethnic know the adjoining council, the Loddon Shire Council, groups around Shepparton who have been impacted by

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these cuts; Centrelink and Goulburn Valley FamilyCare our long-term capital commitments, that will certainly services. be part of our considerations, as will be a range of other schools that members have raised with me over the last This is a small step, a first step in what the government 12 months and no doubt will continue to raise with me will be doing to respond to the issue in Shepparton that over the coming 12 months. has impacted on those growers. I suppose the key thing with this is that the government is very keen to work Mr MULDER (Minister for Public Transport) — with SPC. Despite the cuts, we still want to see SPC The member for Bundoora raised with me an issue in stay in Shepparton, because it is absolutely critical to relation to the Macleod railway station. He is concerned keep that business in that region and in that economy to about an overflow from the car park, with cars parking make sure that it is there for the future. We will work in the residential streets and around the commercial with those growers who have been impacted by the cuts centre as well, causing difficulty in relation to a and equally work with SPC to make sure that they are child-care centre and a nearby tennis club for people there for the long term, taking fruit and providing jobs dropping off and picking up children. He has asked that in that community, as they have for nearly 100 years. I look at providing an extension to the car park at Macleod to cater for these additional cars. I note that Mr DIXON (Minister for Education) — The the former Minister for Roads and Ports was sitting member for Lyndhurst raised an issue with me alongside the member for Bundoora, and I am not sure regarding Hampton Park Secondary College and a whether this is an issue that has just occurred in the last leaking roof at the stadium there. The college is to be two and a half years because I am sure that had it commended for taking on what seems to be the lion’s happened prior to that the former minister would have share of the use, maintenance, upkeep and management addressed it. The only thing I can assume is that since of the stadium. It just goes to show how important it is the coalition came to power people are flocking to the that whatever joint-use agreement enables that to Macleod railway station and causing an overflow of happen, you have to be very careful about the long-term vehicles from the car park. implications for all parties of maintenance and major works, who is responsible for them, how they might As the member would be aware, that station was built, I work and how they might be funded. It will be very think, in 1911; it was upgraded to a premium station in interesting to see the detail of the agreement to see who 2001 and has 102 car parks and 5 bicycle cages to cater is or is not staying within the parameters of that for the community. I also understand that the staff who joint-use agreement. We are more than happy to work there do an excellent job in terms of serving the investigate that and to work with the school and any people of Macleod, but the member would also outside bodies that are associated with the stadium to understand that our major commitment is for protective see that people are upholding their end of the bargain, services officers (PSOs) on Macleod station, and my and we will take the issue from there. role as the Minister for Public Transport is to make sure that I keep ahead of the recruitment program and ensure The member for Lyndhurst mentioned that as well as that those facilities are provided for the PSOs on that taking on the stadium, the school will have to bear the station. costs of the utilities, cleaning and maintenance. That is often one of the issues that schools have to cope with. I The member indicated that a section of the current car know that the overentitlement space in our schools after park towards the end is roped off and there appear to be the Building the Education Revolution (BER) program some works taking place at one end of it, perhaps used went up to 38 per cent, and when the previous by VicTrack or Metro Trains Melbourne for some form government signed up to the BER, no-one thought of works program. I will check with Metro and Public about utility costs, maintenance or cleaning, and they Transport Victoria to find out the current status of the are costs that schools have had to pick up. We have underutilised section of the railway station car park, and mitigated those costs by giving extra funding to I will get back to the member once I receive that schools. We had to find money for that because no-one information. had thought of it. It is an important part of the ongoing work that schools need to consider, but we will follow Mr R. SMITH (Minister for Environment and up the agreement and see where we can assist the Climate Change) — The member for Kew raised a school. matter regarding the Mount Hotham Medical Centre and used a tragic incident that happened over the long The member for Cranbourne raised with me funding for weekend to illustrate his point. Of course there are a the final stage, stage 3, of Cranbourne Secondary number of medical consumables that are used in College. As we work towards next year’s budget and treating cases such as the ones in the incident that the

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member raised as well as a number of other ski-related incidents that happen at Mount Hotham resort. As the member would know, the alpine resorts management boards are the organisations that manage many of the issues around the alpine resorts and they have their eye on a number of community service obligations that they have as they manage the mountains. I assure the member for Kew that I will discuss his concerns with the chair of the Mount Hotham Alpine Resort Management Board and with the rest of the board to see whether we can find a way forward. I understand that issues similar to this in nature have been solved on at least one other mountain, so I will certainly have that conversation with the board in question.

It is worth noting, Deputy Speaker, that there have been seven ministers here to answer matters raised by members of the house. That is further evidence that this government is very serious about addressing issues that representatives of the community have raised, and that is a credit to all ministers who come into the chamber during the adjournment debate. It is certainly not something we saw under the previous government when there were several examples of not even getting correspondence returned because of the absence of ministers appearing in the house to answer issues raised during the adjournment debate. It is a credit to this government that ministers are happy to come in here and discuss matters and respond to the issues that were raised.

There was one further matter raised by the member for Ballarat East for the attention of the Treasurer, asking the Treasurer to meet with representatives from Hepburn shire in relation to the Creswick Bowling Club, and I will pass that on to the Treasurer.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The house stands adjourned until tomorrow.

House adjourned 10.51 p.m.