PARLIAMENT OF VICTORIA

PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD)

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

FIFTY-SEVENTH PARLIAMENT

FIRST SESSION

Book 5 5, 6 and 7 April 2011

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

By authority of the Victorian Government Printer

The Governor Professor DAVID de KRETSER, AC

The Lieutenant-Governor The Honourable Justice MARILYN WARREN, AC

The ministry

Premier and Minister for the Arts...... The Hon. E. N. Baillieu, MP

Deputy Premier, Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Minister for Bushfire Response, and Minister for Regional and Rural Development...... The Hon. P. J. Ryan, MP

Treasurer...... The Hon. K. A. Wells, MP

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

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

Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations, and Minister for Manufacturing, Exports and Trade ...... The Hon. R. A. G. Dalla-Riva, MLC

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 Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship...... The Hon. N. Kotsiras, MP

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

Minister for Corrections, Minister for Crime Prevention and Minister responsible for the establishment of an anti-corruption commission . . . The Hon. A. J. McIntosh, MP

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

Minister for Ports, Minister for Major Projects, Minister for Regional Cities and Minister for Racing...... The Hon. D. V. Napthine, MP

Minister for Gaming, Minister for Consumer Affairs, and Minister for Energy and Resources...... The Hon. M. A. O’Brien, MP

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

Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Women’s Affairs and Minister for Community Services...... The Hon. M. L. N. Wooldridge, MP

Cabinet Secretary...... Mr D. J. Hodgett, MP

Legislative Assembly committees

Privileges Committee — Ms Barker, Mr Clark, Ms Green, Mr McIntosh, Mr Morris, Dr Napthine, Mr Nardella, Mr Pandazopoulus and Mr Walsh.

Standing Orders Committee — The Speaker, Ms Barker, Mr Brooks, Mrs Fyffe, Mr Hodgett, Mr McIntosh, Mr Perera and Mrs Powell.

Joint committees

Dispute Resolution Committee — (Assembly): Ms Allan, Mr Clark, Ms Hennessy, Mr Holding, Mr McIntosh, Dr Napthine and Mr Walsh. Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee — (Assembly): Mr Battin and Mr McCurdy. (Council): Mr Leane, Mr Ramsay and Mr Scheffer. Education and Training Committee — (Assembly): Mr Crisp, Ms Miller and Mr Southwick. (Council): Mr Elasmar and Ms Tierney. Electoral Matters Committee — (Assembly): Ms Ryall and Mrs Victoria. (Council): Mr Finn, Mr Somyurek and Mr Tarlamis. Family and Community Development Committee — (Council): Mrs Coote and Ms Crozier. House Committee — (Assembly): The Speaker (ex officio), Ms Beattie, Ms Campbell, Mrs Fyffe, Ms Graley, Mr Wakeling and Mr Weller. (Council): The President (ex officio). 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 and Mr Scott. (Council): Mr P. Davis, Mr O’Brien and Mr Pakula. Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee — (Assembly): Ms Campbell, Mr Eren, Mr Gidley, Mr Nardella and Mr Watt. (Council): Mr O’Brien and Mr O’Donohue.

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 Pandazopoulus, Dr Sykes, Mr Thompson, Mr Tilley, Mrs Victoria and Mr Weller. Leader of the Parliamentary Liberal Party and Premier: The Hon. E. N. BAILLIEU 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. R. J. HULLS

Member District Party Member District Party Allan, Ms Jacinta Marie Bendigo East ALP Lim, Mr Muy Hong Clayton ALP Andrews, Mr Daniel Michael Mulgrave ALP McCurdy, Mr Timothy Logan Murray Valley Nats Angus, Mr Neil Andrew Warwick Forest Hill LP McGuire, Mr Frank 2 Broadmeadows ALP Asher, Ms Louise Brighton LP McIntosh, Mr Andrew John Kew LP Baillieu, Mr Edward Norman Hawthorn LP McLeish, Ms Lucinda Gaye Seymour LP Barker, Ms Ann Patricia Oakleigh ALP Madden, Mr Justin Mark Essendon ALP Battin, Mr Bradley William Gembrook LP Merlino, Mr James Anthony Monbulk ALP Bauer, Mrs Donna Jane Carrum LP Miller, Ms Elizabeth Eileen Bentleigh LP Beattie, Ms Elizabeth Jean Yuroke ALP Morris, Mr David Charles Mornington LP Blackwood, Mr Gary John Narracan LP Mulder, Mr Terence Wynn Polwarth LP Brooks, Mr Colin William Bundoora ALP Napthine, Dr Denis Vincent South-West Coast LP Brumby, Mr John Mansfield 1 Broadmeadows ALP Nardella, Mr Donato Antonio Melton ALP Bull, Mr Timothy Owen Gippsland East Nats Neville, Ms Lisa Mary Bellarine ALP Burgess, Mr Neale Ronald Hastings LP Newton-Brown, Mr Clement Arundel Prahran LP Campbell, Ms Christine Mary Pascoe Vale ALP Noonan, Mr Wade Mathew Williamstown ALP Carbines, Mr Anthony Richard Ivanhoe 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 Pallas, Mr Timothy Hugh Tarneit ALP D’Ambrosio, Ms Liliana Mill Park ALP Pandazopoulos, Mr John Dandenong ALP Delahunty, Mr Hugh Francis Lowan Nats Perera, Mr Jude Cranbourne ALP Dixon, Mr Martin Francis Nepean LP Pike, Ms Bronwyn Jane Melbourne ALP Donnellan, Mr Luke Anthony Narre Warren North ALP Powell, Mrs Elizabeth Jeanette Shepparton Nats Duncan, Ms Joanne Therese Macedon ALP Richardson, Ms Fiona Catherine Alison Northcote ALP Edwards, Ms Janice Maree Bendigo West ALP Ryall, Ms Deanne Sharon Mitcham LP Eren, Mr John Hamdi Lara ALP Ryan, Mr Peter Julian Gippsland South Nats Foley, Mr Martin Peter Albert Park ALP Scott, Mr Robin David Preston ALP Fyffe, Mrs Christine Ann Evelyn LP Shaw, Mr Geoffrey Page Frankston LP Garrett, Ms Jane Furneaux Brunswick ALP Smith, Mr Kenneth Maurice Bass LP Gidley, Mr Michael Xavier Charles Mount Waverley LP Smith, Mr Ryan Warrandyte LP Graley, Ms Judith Ann Narre Warren South ALP Southwick, Mr David James Caulfield LP Green, Ms Danielle Louise Yan Yean ALP Sykes, Dr William Everett Benalla Nats Halfpenny, Ms Bronwyn Thomastown ALP Thompson, Mr Murray Hamilton Ross Sandringham LP Helper, Mr Jochen Ripon ALP Thomson, Ms Marsha Rose Footscray ALP Hennessy, Ms Jill Altona ALP Tilley, Mr William John Benambra LP Herbert, Mr Steven Ralph Eltham ALP Trezise, Mr Ian Douglas Geelong ALP Hodgett, Mr David John Kilsyth LP Victoria, Mrs Heidi Bayswater LP Holding, Mr Timothy James Lyndhurst ALP Wakeling, Mr Nicholas Ferntree Gully LP Howard, Mr Geoffrey Kemp Ballarat East ALP Walsh, Mr Peter Lindsay Swan Hill Nats Hulls, Mr Rob Justin Niddrie ALP Watt, Mr Graham Travis Burwood LP Hutchins, Ms Natalie Maree Sykes Keilor ALP Weller, Mr Paul Rodney Nats Kairouz, Ms Marlene Kororoit 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 2 Elected 19 February 2011

CONTENTS

TUESDAY, 5 APRIL 2011 Planning: Moonee Ponds development...... 887 Champions of the Bush awards...... 887 QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE Hell on the Way to Heaven...... 888 Children: protection...... 867, 868, 872 Rural Financial Counselling Service: Mildura Treasurer: ministerial council attendance ...... 867 office...... 888 Taxation: GST revenue ...... 869, 870 Tucge Akkok...... 888 Minister for Community Services: departmental Women: Gembrook electorate...... 889 briefings...... 870, 871 Member for Gembrook: community consultation...... 889 Rail: regional link ...... 871 Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club...... 889 Police: transit division ...... 873 Silvan Football Club...... 889 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AMENDMENT BILL 2011 Nunawading Basketball Centre: hall of fame...... 889 Introduction and first reading...... 875 Forest Hill electorate: cost of living...... 890 Rail: Altona loop service ...... 890 CRIMES AMENDMENT (BULLYING) BILL 2011 HEALTH SERVICES AMENDMENT (HEALTH Introduction and first reading...... 875 INNOVATION AND REFORM COUNCIL) FAMILY VIOLENCE PROTECTION AMENDMENT BILL 2011 (SAFETY NOTICES) BILL 2011 Second reading ...... 890 Introduction and first reading...... 875 LIQUOR CONTROL REFORM AMENDMENT DENTAL HOSPITAL LAND BILL 2011 BILL 2011 Introduction and first reading...... 875 Second reading ...... 901 PETITIONS RULINGS BY THE CHAIR Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Media conference: recording ...... 915 Centre: funding ...... 876 RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES AMENDMENT (PUBLIC Rail: regional link ...... 876 HOUSING) BILL 2011 Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne Second reading ...... 916 North: duplication...... 876 ADJOURNMENT SCRUTINY OF ACTS AND REGULATIONS Rail: regional link...... 929, 930 COMMITTEE Cycling: Tour of Gippsland...... 929 Alert Digest No. 3...... 876 Emergency services: Echuca...... 930 DOCUMENTS ...... 877 Schools: Tarneit...... 931 ROYAL ASSENT...... 877 Sandringham: beach renourishment...... 931 APPROPRIATION MESSAGES ...... 877 Defibrillators: public access...... 931 Mount Pleasant Road Primary School and BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE Kindergarten: funding...... 932 Program ...... 877 National curriculum: Hindi language...... 932 MEMBERS STATEMENTS Mordialloc Creek: dredging...... 933 Autism: eastern suburbs school ...... 883 Responses...... 934 Loral Ipsum: expansion ...... 883 Monash Gallery of Art ...... 883 Castlemaine State Festival...... 883 WEDNESDAY, 6 APRIL 2011 Melbourne Museum: Tutankhamun exhibition ...... 883 Eaglehawk Primary School: future ...... 883 PETITIONS Schools: Ferntree Gully electorate...... 883 Box Hill to Ringwood bike trail: funding ...... 939 Stud Road: bus lanes...... 884 Rail: regional link...... 939 Lakesfield Drive–Napoleon Drive, Lysterfield: Rail: Werribee line...... 939 keep-clear marking ...... 884 Schools: Doreen...... 939 Clean Up Australia Day: Ferntree Gully...... 884 DOCUMENTS ...... 940 Corio-Norlane education regeneration project ...... 884 Fishing: high country competition...... 884 BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE Orbost Cricket Club: premiership...... 885 Adjournment...... 940 Police: city of Wyndham ...... 885 Orders of the day ...... 967 Bonbeach Life Saving Club: fundraiser ...... 885 Sessional orders...... 972, 985 Emily Prinnet...... 885 MEMBERS STATEMENTS Patterson River Secondary College: basketball Celebrate Mooroolbark 2011...... 940 and netball stadium...... 885 Dental services: waiting lists...... 940 Schools: upgrades ...... 885 Penola Catholic College: redevelopment ...... 940 Maryborough fire brigade: 150th anniversary ...... 885 Echuca Regional Health: funding ...... 941 Treasurer: ministerial council attendance ...... 886 Autism: eastern suburbs school...... 941 Melbourne Food and Wine Festival: Afghan Asian honeybees: control...... 941 banquet...... 886 Brunswick Secondary College: funding...... 942 Relay for Life: Cobram Barooga...... 886 Planning: Mount Eliza land ...... 942

CONTENTS

Toorak College: music centre opening...... 942 DENTAL HOSPITAL LAND BILL 2011 Geelong Trades Hall Council: Labour Day Statement of compatibility...... 1023 dinner...... 942 Second reading...... 1023 Oxfam: Trailwalker fundraiser...... 943 LIQUOR CONTROL REFORM AMENDMENT World Autism Awareness Day ...... 943, 946 BILL 2011 Victorian Women’s Honour Roll: inductees...... 943 Second reading...... 1038 Schools: former government performance ...... 944 Third reading ...... 1042 Schools: Kyneton...... 944 HEALTH SERVICES AMENDMENT (HEALTH Youth: under-age drinking...... 944 INNOVATION AND REFORM COUNCIL) Sunshine Football Club: achievements ...... 945 BILL 2011 Melbourne Central: anti-Israel protest ...... 945 Second reading...... 1043 Berwick trades career centre: funding ...... 945 Third reading ...... 1043 South Barwon Football and Netball Club...... 946 ADJOURNMENT Barwon Heads Bowling Club: 40th anniversary ...... 946 Somerton Road: duplication...... 1043 Deakin University: funding...... 946 Kilsyth electorate: sports facilities ...... 1043 Kangaroos: control ...... 946 Epping Road, Epping: duplication...... 1044 Roberts McCubbin Primary School: Japan gift...... 947 Princes Freeway, Morwell: closure ...... 1045 Ashburton: community fun day...... 947 Rail: Geelong station ...... 1045 Ian and Mena Camier: 60th wedding Schools: Forest Hill electorate...... 1045 anniversary...... 947 Vertex: Ballarat customer support centre...... 1046 Brian and Miriam Cherry: 50th wedding Floods: Murray Valley electorate ...... 1047 anniversary...... 947 Lionsville aged-care facility: lease...... 1047 Mental health: western suburbs forum...... 947 Kananook Creek: management plan...... 1047 Margaret Hardy: 80th birthday...... 947 Responses ...... 1048 MATTER OF PUBLIC IMPORTANCE Industrial relations: government policy ...... 947 DISTINGUISHED VISITORS...... 975, 1029 THURSDAY, 7 APRIL 2011 QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE PETITION Mr Finn (Western Metropolitan Region): Rail: Werribee line...... 1053 comments...... 976 Treasurer: ministerial council attendance ...... 978 DOCUMENTS ...... 1053 Minister for Community Services: critical PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEES incident reports ...... 979 Membership...... 1053 Former government: renewable energy policy ...... 979 MEMBERS STATEMENTS Minister for Community Services: departmental Sonja Josipovic ...... 1053 briefings...... 980, 983, 984 Bernie Trevaskis and Graeme Young...... 1054 Police: election commitment...... 981 Ron Gleeson ...... 1054 Children: protection...... 982 Schools: Lowan electorate...... 1054 Rail: Cardinia Road and Lynbrook stations...... 982 Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Rock Eisteddfod Challenge: funding ...... 984 Centre: funding...... 1055 SUSPENSION OF MEMBER Kokoda Trail: Salute to the 39th dinner...... 1055 Member for Yan Yean ...... 984 Frank Chandler...... 1055 RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES AMENDMENT (PUBLIC Baxter Preschool: sausage sizzle ...... 1056 HOUSING) BILL 2011 Port of Hastings: ministerial visit...... 1056 Second reading...... 995, 1043 Frankston Hospital: upgrade ...... 1056, 1057 Third reading...... 1043 Fawkner Bowling Club: Presidents and MULTICULTURAL VICTORIA BILL 2011 Veterans Day ...... 1056 Second reading...... 996, 1024, 1029, 1043 Mordialloc electorate: student leadership ...... 1056 Third reading...... 1043 Sebastopol: smoke night ...... 1057 Frankston TV...... 1057 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AMENDMENT BILL 2011 Police: Frankston...... 1057 Statement of compatibility...... 1017 Frankston: hoon driving ...... 1057 Second reading...... 1017 Golden Square Primary School: funding...... 1058 CRIMES AMENDMENT (BULLYING) BILL 2011 Castlemaine Secondary College: funding...... 1058 Statement of compatibility...... 1018 Blackburn North parkland: future...... 1058 Second reading...... 1019 Box Hill to Ringwood bike trail: funding ...... 1058 FAMILY VIOLENCE PROTECTION AMENDMENT VCE Season of Excellence 2011...... 1058 (SAFETY NOTICES) BILL 2011 Youth: Benalla electorate ...... 1059 Statement of compatibility...... 1020 City of Kingston: alcohol-free zones ...... 1059 Second reading...... 1021 Stonnington Primary School: student leadership ....1059

CONTENTS

Toc H site, Point Lonsdale...... 1060 37. Education: Kyneton Secondary Winaccom Association: funding ...... 1060 College — upgrade ...... 1124 Solar energy: government initiatives...... 1060 38. Housing: shire of Hepburn ...... 1124 GOVERNOR’S SPEECH 39. Housing: shire of Moorabool...... 1125 Address-in-reply...... 1061, 1098 40. Housing: shire of Macedon Ranges...... 1125 ABSENCE OF MINISTER...... 1088 QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE MEMBERS INDEX...... i Mr Finn (Western Metropolitan Region): comments...... 1089 Governor of Victoria: retirement...... 1089 Melbourne Racing Club chief executive officer: comments...... 1090 Latrobe Valley: government initiatives ...... 1091 Monash Medical Centre: children’s centre...... 1092 Autism: eastern suburbs school ...... 1093 Children: protection...... 1093, 1096, 1097 Schools: languages other than English ...... 1094 Floods: government assistance...... 1097 SUSPENSION OF MEMBER Member for Monbulk ...... 1097 ADJOURNMENT Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne North: duplication...... 1109 Patterson River: boating facility...... 1110 Portarlington Primary School: redevelopment...... 1110 Rail: Southland station...... 1111 Schools: Port Melbourne ...... 1112 Seymour District Memorial Hospital: management...... 1112 Eltham High School: funding ...... 1113 Gembrook electorate: sports facilities...... 1113 Melbourne Markets: relocation...... 1114 Aboriginals: north-eastern Victoria ...... 1114 Responses ...... 1115

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

TUESDAY, 5 APRIL 2011

19. Education: Sebastopol College — upgrade...... 1119 20. Housing: neighbourhood renewal — Delacombe...... 1119 21. Housing: city of Ballarat...... 1120 23. Public transport: rail — Ballarat– Geelong service ...... 1120 24. Public transport: rail — Ballarat– Bendigo service...... 1121 25. Public transport: rail — Wendouree service ...... 1121 28. Public transport: Ballarat link road — funding ...... 1122 29. Sport and recreation: Marty Busch Reserve, Sebastopol — BMX facility.....1122 30. Sport and recreation: regional soccer and community facility, Ballarat...... 1123 35. Roads: Ballarat-Buninyong Road, Ballarat — upgrade...... 1124

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 867

Tuesday, 5 April 2011 within the standing orders for the minister to canvass what other governments did or did not do. That is not The SPEAKER (Hon. Ken Smith) took the chair at relevant to the question — on any reading of it. This is 2.06 p.m. and read the prayer. an offence against the standing orders.

The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE of order. I believe the minister is being relevant. Children: protection Ms WOOLDRIDGE — My responsibility is to make sure each and every one of these incident reports Mr ANDREWS (Leader of the Opposition) — My gets a targeted, specific response to make sure that the question is to the Minister for Community Services. I children concerned are protected and that we can ask: does the minister read and note all child protection reform the system across the board. That is exactly critical incident reports sent to her? what I am doing as minister: providing the leadership and taking the responsibility to ensure that the children Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Community are getting the care and protection they need and to Services) — I thank the Leader of the Opposition for reform the system to make sure these things do not his question. This is a very important area and one happen again in the future. which presents incredible challenges. My responsibilities as minister are twofold: first of all, to Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, the ensure that the children concerned in the incident minister was asked a very simple question. Her answer reports that I receive are getting the individual care and is not relevant to that question: does she read the reports the protection they deserve from the child protection or does she not? We can only conclude that she does system; and secondly, my responsibility is to make sure not read the reports — — that we learn from what has happened in the incident reports, that we do the critical thinking, that we do the The SPEAKER — Order! The minister has strategic thinking and that we make sure that as a result concluded her answer. we can reform the system to improve it for children in the future. Treasurer: ministerial council attendance

Mr Andrews — There is no doubt that these are Ms WREFORD (Mordialloc) — My question is to serious matters. My point of order is on relevance. It the Premier. I refer the Premier to the meeting of the was a very simple question: does the minister read the Ministerial Council for Federal Financial Relations to reports or does she not? It is a very simple question and be held in Canberra on Thursday, and I ask: will the one that I would have thought was deserving of an Premier highlight to the house the importance of answer. Victoria being represented at this meeting to fight for a fairer GST deal? The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point of order. The minister was being relevant to the Mr BAILLIEU (Premier) — This is one of the question asked. most important issues facing Victoria. In recent weeks the commonwealth, through the Commonwealth Grants Ms WOOLDRIDGE — The reality is we are Commission in an update of GST relativities, has seeing many failures in the child protection system as a stripped $2.5 billion out of the revenues of Victoria. result of 4000 days of Labor neglect and failure in the This was not foreshadowed; it was unpredicted, and it system. We respond to these reports. We know what is will have a significant effect on all Victorians. It is going on. $2.5 billion, and this was done using a relativities GST distribution system which is flawed. Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, the question was very direct. It was about whether the The Treasurer made a submission to the minister reads — — commonwealth, and indeed to the federal Treasurer, indicating the flaws in that system. Perhaps not The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the unsurprisingly the Prime Minister accepted that the Opposition should understand that a point of order is system was flawed. What we have said is that if the not a chance to ask the question again. system is to be reviewed because it is flawed, then the federal government should put back the money it has Mr Andrews — I had not concluded my point of taken from Victoria first. What we have seen from order. The question was very simple, and it is not members on the other side of the house is absolute

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

868 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 silence on this issue. They do not care whether the order I made regarding the Premier’s attack on commonwealth strips $2.5 billion from Victoria. members of the opposition.

In good faith we sought from the opposition a pair for The SPEAKER — Order! I ruled on the point of the Treasurer to attend a ministerial council meeting to order. present his submission on Thursday of this week. When we were in opposition, on every previous occasion it Mr BAILLIEU — It is clear that some people do was necessary, we granted the former Treasurer a pair not mind if $2.5 billion is stripped from the Victorian in such situations. budget, but we care and the Treasurer cares. There are other parliaments sitting this week, and in each case — Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, the in South Australia, Tasmania and Western Australia — Premier is now starting to go down the path of the Treasurer has been given leave to attend the misleading the Parliament. Pairing arrangements were ministerial council meeting. You would have thought it never provided by the opposition for ministerial council would be in Victoria’s interests for the opposition to meetings. provide that pair, Speaker, to allow the Treasurer to attend on Thursday and present Victoria’s case. Some The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of $2.5 billion is at stake, and that money will assist order. Victorian families. The opposition does not care. It is placing politics before the interests of Victorian Mr BAILLIEU — We provided the former families. We are not going to have a bar of that. If that Treasurer with a pair where it was appropriate, is the approach of opposition members, then so be it; it including in the other place. When the Treasurer was in will be on their heads. Victorian families want their the other place a pair was provided. It is evident that the case presented. people of Victoria do not care for this opposition putting politics before Victorian families. There you Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, under have Tiny Tim, the $2 million Man — $2 million every standing order 145 I would like to table my letter to the day, and they do not care — — Leader of the House, which states that the attendance of the Treasurer at the ministerial council meeting is not a Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, I matter for the opposition and that the Treasurer should appreciate the Premier has been practising this answer feel free to attend. I would like to table that document all day, but he is now starting to debate the question. I for the attention of the house. suggest that casting reflections on the opposition is not answering the question he was asked. The SPEAKER — Order! This is not the right time to be tabling documents. The member may do that later. The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point of order. I ask the Premier to return to answering the Children: protection question. Mr ANDREWS (Leader of the Opposition) — My Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, I ask you question is again to the Minister for Community to provide guidance to the opposition on this matter. Services. I refer the minister to comments she made last Under which standing order has that ruling been made? week in which she indicated that since becoming Under which standing order is the Premier allowed to minister she had received some 400 critical incident directly attack members of the opposition? It would reports. I ask quite simply: how many of those help us — — 400 reports has the minister read and noted?

Honourable members interjecting. Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Community Services) — I thank the Leader of the Opposition for The SPEAKER — Order! The member for his question. I only wish the opposition had had as Bendigo East stood up and said her point of order was much interest in child protection in government as it that the Premier was starting to mislead the house. does now. If it had, we would not have the crisis — — There is no point of order, and I ask the member to sit down. Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, the question related to the minister and her ministerial role; Ms Allan — On a further point of order, Speaker, I it did not refer to the opposition, and it did not refer to ask that you rule on the point of order I just made, not the former government. It is a simple question that I the previous one. I ask that you rule on the point of would think could be answered simply.

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 869

The SPEAKER — Order! On my estimation the Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, the minister had been going for less than 20 seconds. She question in no way related to the previous government. was being relevant to the question that was asked. It was a very simple question: of the 400 reports, how many has the minister read? Could the question have Ms WOOLDRIDGE — The context of my been any simpler? It has nothing to do with the response is very relevant because it refers to the crisis I previous government or opposition. It is about the am facing in child protection services left by 4000 days minister’s office and her duty as a minister. Nothing of neglect by the former Labor government. else is relevant to this question.

Mr Andrews — My point of order is on the issue of The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point relevance. The question related to whether the minister of order. The answer was relevant to the question that has read the critical incident reports that she indicated was asked. The minister has concluded her answer. she had received since becoming the Minister for Community Services. That was the context of the Taxation: GST revenue question, and it can be answered simply. If the minister would stop avoiding answering the question and answer Mr ANGUS (Forest Hill) — My question is to the it, then maybe she could fulfil the commitment given Treasurer. Can the Treasurer update the house on how by the Premier that answers will be direct, factual and the proposed $2.5 billion cut to Victoria’s GST revenue succinct. will affect the state’s public finances and say what opportunities the Treasurer will have to fight for better Mr Ryan — On the point of order, Speaker, it is services for Victorian families? absolutely apparent that there is a carefully orchestrated campaign on the part of the opposition to interfere with Mr WELLS (Treasurer) — I thank the member for the way in which ministers are answering questions. It Forest Hill for his question. The member understands is being done on a very constructed basis to try to the impact that the $2.5 billion cut will have on interfere with the flow of responses by ministers, and I Victorian finances and how it will affect every single ask you, Speaker, to rule this point of order out of household in this state. order, as has been the case with the other points of order that have been raised. On 25 February the commonwealth announced a massive unprecedented attack on Victoria’s finances. Ms Allan — On the point of order, Speaker, the Before that the largest cut in one year in Victoria had Leader of the Opposition made a point that is entirely been around $70 million. This is six times more than relevant under standing order 58(1)(b). The minister that. No other state has suffered the reduction in per was clearly debating the question, attacking the capita terms that Victoria has. We are now more than opposition and not addressing the substance of the $80 per person worse off. question. I ask that you rule in favour of the Leader of the Opposition’s point of order and have the minister When the proposed cuts were announced this state said answer the question she was asked. that it was not going to take them lying down and that we would make strong representations to the Prime The SPEAKER — Order! Members of the Minister and the federal Treasurer. The cuts are opposition will be aware from their time in government unjustified, and there is no logic to them. Given that we that the preamble that comes with the question and the have around 25 per cent of Australia’s population, these way the question is asked are important. The minister cuts make it even worse, as they will take Victoria’s was being relevant to the question that was asked. I share of GST revenue down to around 22.5 per cent. cannot direct the minister how to answer the question, We are currently subsidising other states to the value of and I believe the answer was relevant to the question around $123 per person, and the cuts will mean that that was asked. will rise to $206 per person.

Ms WOOLDRIDGE — Each and every incident Last month the Victorian government put together a report receives a targeted response from me, my office very strong and compelling case about the and the Department of Human Services. That is exactly unprecedented cut to our finances. I am pleased to what they deserve and that is exactly what they are advise that the Prime Minister has accepted the advice getting. That is in direct contrast to what happened of the Victorian government and asked for a review of under the previous government. I stand by that process, the GST. We are now asking that the Gillard and we are looking to improve the outcomes for government suspend that unfair $2.5 billion cut whilst vulnerable children. the review is going on. It is clear that the

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE

870 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 commonwealth government itself does not have any the regional rail link, which has been announced and confidence in the existing formula. It defies any sort of confirmed by this government. That is something to logic for the Prime Minister to justify a $500 million which we are committed, but we now find that with an cut in one financial year. We acknowledge that the extra $2.5 billion being carved out of our budget we commonwealth’s current GST distribution is face the prospect of the project being delayed. We face unpredictable and unfair. The review that is going to problems with it in any event, and delivering it is going take place is a complete vindication of this state’s case, to be a challenge. which we put to the Prime Minister. Our predecessors in government, who now sit opposite On Thursday all the treasurers will meet to discuss the us, undercosted this great project to an appalling GST carve-up, and it is absolutely imperative that degree. We know it was undercosted by at least Victoria is represented at that meeting. I call on the $800 million, and somehow we are supposed to find opposition to put the interests of the state ahead of petty that $800 million from the resources we have available politics, to put the interests of every Victorian family to us. In addition to that we have had $500 million ahead of those of its Labor mates in Canberra and to shaved off the available commonwealth funding support our plan to get a better deal in Canberra on because of issues around the initiatives being taken by Thursday. the federal government in relation to the floods. Minister for Community Services: As a state we understand that arrangements across the departmental briefings federation are very important and that the less populous states have to be accommodated in terms of receiving a Mr DONNELLAN (Narre Warren North) — My fair share of this important resource. What we do not question is for the Minister for Community Services. I understand is why Victoria, which is the second most refer the minister to revelations by the Department of populous state in the Australian federation, should have Human Services that there are currently been singled out for what is an absolutely unforgivable 600 outstanding briefs awaiting the minister’s urgent and inexplicable cut of $2.5 billion. Regional Victoria response, and I ask: why will the minister not make produces an enormous amount of food product, and as vulnerable children a priority? an island nation of 22 million people, Australia exports to vast parts of the world. To do that we depend upon Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Community our rail and road networks. Services) — I thank the member for his question, and I can say that the assumptions in his question are When we have to cop cuts like this to the programs we completely wrong. are instituting as a government it leaves an enormous hole in our ability to deliver those programs. And it is Taxation: GST revenue not only those programs that are affected; this sort of thing imposes enormous stress on other programs in all Mr BULL (Gippsland East) — My question is to their forms, both capital and recurrent, which the the Deputy Premier. Can the Deputy Premier inform government is obliged to provide on behalf of the the house of the effect a proposed reduction of people of Victoria. $2.5 billion in Victoria’s GST revenue would have on regional Victorians? So it is that we are in circumstances where, in addition to all of that, we are day by day discovering even more Mr RYAN (Minister for Regional and Rural black holes left to us by the former Labor government. Development) — I thank the member for his question When you put the totality of that together, the simple and for the great work he is doing on behalf of his fact is that a cut of $2.5 billion, as is proposed by what constituency of Gippsland East. Is it not great to have is now before us, is a hit to our economy which is an active member in this Parliament working on behalf simply unfair and unjustified and needs to be remedied. of the constituents of Gippsland East! One of the keys to doing this is to make sure that on Thursday the Treasurer of the state is up in Canberra The member for Gippsland East understands that if this presenting the case of behalf of Victoria. The former iniquitous cut of $2.5 billion from Victoria’s economy Premier, even though he might have left a few black goes ahead, there are going to be catastrophic holes behind — yes, he did — also understood there consequences for all Victorians, including those of us was a problem in this. That is why the Gillard who live in rural and regional Victoria. Apart from government has appointed him to be involved in the anything else it will have a terrible impact on our review. We need our Treasurer to go up there and make capacity to deliver regional rail programs, particularly the case. This opposition is putting politics before the

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 871 interests of all Victorian families and all regional The SPEAKER — Order! The minister, to families and businesses, and it is a disgrace. continue.

The SPEAKER — Order! The minister’s time has Ms WOOLDRIDGE — There are no limitations on expired. my ability to do the policy work I need to do to reform the mess that Labor left in relation to vulnerable people, Minister for Community Services: and I am getting on with that job. I am getting the departmental briefings briefs, I am getting the advice and I am making decisions in relation to Victoria’s vulnerable people, Mr DONNELLAN (Narre Warren North) — My and that is what I am going to continue to do. question is to the Minister for Community Services. Did the minister or any member of her staff, including Rail: regional link her acting chief of staff, Mr Terry Barnes, send an email to senior Department of Human Services staff Mr KATOS (South Barwon) — My question is to directing that they do not initiate briefs of advice to her? the Minister for Public Transport. Will the minister inform the house how the government will deliver Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Community improved public transport for residents of Melbourne Services) — I thank the honourable member for his and regional Victoria, and will he outline to the house question, but experience has taught me not to take any what the threats are to these proposals? question from the member at face value. In fact, in one of the recent questions he asked me he accused me of Honourable members interjecting. failing to act to protect — — Mr MULDER (Minister for Public Transport) — The SPEAKER — Order! I ask the minister not to We got there! I thank the member for South Barwon for debate the question. his question. I was delighted to announce yesterday that despite the previous government’s failure to adequately Ms WOOLDRIDGE — I do not take questions scope and control the cost of the regional rail link from the member for Narre Warren North on face value project, the coalition government will be building this because it has been proven that his questions are important project for Victoria. We will get on with the incorrect before they have even been asked. On that job, and we will deliver. When completed in 2015–16, basis all his questions are questionable. the separation of country and metropolitan trains under the regional rail link will allow 10 extra country train We are getting on with making sure that Victoria’s services and 23 new metropolitan train services to vulnerable citizens have the care and protection they operate during the 2-hour morning peak period, with need in a whole range of areas. We are managing that similar benefits in the afternoon. We are getting on with process. We are introducing policies. the job, and we are delivering.

Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, the The regional rail link will provide extra capacity, not minister’s answer is not relevant to the question asked, just for the busy Craigieburn, Upfield, Watergardens, and she is debating the issue. Is it the minister’s Werribee and Williamstown suburban lines operated by contention that if she does not like a question, she does Metro Trains Melbourne but also for V/Line passengers not have to answer it? This answer is not relevant to the from Ballarat, Bendigo and Geelong and longer question, and the minister is debating the issue. distance train travellers from Warrnambool, Ararat, Echuca and Swan Hill. The whole of Victoria will An honourable member interjected. benefit from this action by the coalition government. Mr Andrews — There was no preamble at all. Upon coming to office the coalition government The SPEAKER — Order! I partly uphold the point discovered that the key threat to this project was of order. I believe the minister was starting to debate Labor’s utter incompetence. Specifically we discovered the question, and I ask her to return to answering it. that Labor had failed to adequately scope and cost the project. It is clear that Labor simply found responsible Ms WOOLDRIDGE — I can assure you, Speaker, financial management just too difficult once again. For and the house that every single brief that I need is instance, the previous Labor government was so sloppy coming to my office to be dealt with in relation to — — in its project oversight that it massively underestimated the cost of signalling and land acquisition. This meant Honourable members interjecting.

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872 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 that a blow-out of up to $1.1 billion was discovered Mr MULDER — We are dealing with Labor’s upon this government taking office. sloppy approach to this project, and we are now moving ahead. We will proceed with this project. We will But Labor’s incompetence goes further. We discovered manage it properly and make the investment needed to that Labor failed to include funding for the cost of meet the growing demands on our rail system. We will grade separation at the two Anderson Road level make sure that Victorians get the best value for money crossings. This unfunded commitment comes in at a from their taxes. We will be asking industry to take its cost of $150 million — announced, but no money. It best shot at coming up with innovative ways of gets worse. Labor proposed a railway project without delivering the project at the best possible price. Labor funding the required railcars. In other words, the cart will not acknowledge its incompetence. It refuses to was there but there were no horses. The cost of the admit that it threatened a project that will make the 34 new V/Line V/Locity railcars is around lives of so many Victorians better. It prefers to play $260 million. Who would build a railway without politics. It places politics before families. We will railway trains? Who would do that? A Labor deliver this project for Victoria. government would. Thanks to Labor’s incompetence, the incoming coalition government has a $1.5 billion Children: protection Labor black hole to deal with. Mr ANDREWS (Leader of the Opposition) — My The black hole has been made worse by the decision of question is again to the Minister for Community the federal Labor government to defer $500 million of Services. I refer her to a statement in the house just a previously committed Infrastructure Australia funding. few weeks ago, when she said: We have to deal with Labor’s financial mess, but we also have to deal with Labor’s shabby treatment of … my policy has always been to respond promptly to urgent those affected by this project. matters raised on child protection issues. In light of that quote, why did it take three weeks for Since coming to office I have met with Footscray the minister to learn from 3AW about a nine-year-old residents who were shamefully treated by the former boy being abandoned in Coburg? Labor government. These residents learnt from the media that their houses would be acquired, not from the Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Community former minister or the former government. Services) — I thank the Leader of the Opposition for his question. This case is a very concerning one. There The SPEAKER — Order! There is a point of order. is no doubt that no child should be left unattended, Stop the clock. particularly children in child protection. There has Mr MULDER — We are dealing with Labor’s clearly been some questionable decision making. What sloppy approach to this project, and we are now moving I have in place is a system that ensures a number of ahead. things. In contrast to what we have seen from the opposition today, we have a process that first and The SPEAKER — Order! There is a point of order. foremost looks at the safety of the child and what is happening. Secondly, we make sure we know what has Mr MULDER — Stop the clock. happened to the workers — whether they been stood down or how they have been dealt with. Thirdly, we The SPEAKER — Order! The minister seems to look at whether a police investigation is under way and have excited both sides of the house, which I thought whether the Department of Human Services was an impossible thing to do. investigation has commenced.

Ms Allan — I think my point of order is going to be Each of these individual steps was followed in relation well made by the minister himself. He was clearly to this particular case, and we were assured at every reading from a document. I ask that he table the level that each of those steps had been followed. My document he was reading from, because he obviously staff has assured us, my department has assured us and did not even see that I was seeking to raise a point of I now have the confidence that each and every one of order. those steps has been followed in relation to the case.

The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point We focus on making sure we have processes in place of order. and that every appropriate action has been taken. In relation to the question from the Leader of the Opposition, I respond — —

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 873

Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, the to make our public transport network safer for minister is debating the issue, and that debate is not Victorian families? relevant to the question. The question was: why, in light of her stated comments about being promptly informed Mr Hulls interjected. and acting, did she have to learn from 3AW about a matter that has been sitting in her office for weeks? Mr RYAN (Minister for Police and Emergency Services) — You’re a sad shell. The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point of order. The minister was being relevant to the I thank the member for her question over an issue question that was asked in explaining the situation. which is vitally important to all Victorians. I can ask in a rhetorical sense: hasn’t it been a great week for Ms WOOLDRIDGE — In the substance of this announcements about additional police numbers in issue every response has been appropriate. The Victoria! It has been a great week — just a terrific response of the Department of Human Services has week — and to think we have another 450 graduates been appropriate and the response of my office has coming out of the police academy by 30 June, when been appropriate. We have responded to every question they will be doing their — — and satisfied ourselves that the child is safe, that the staff have been dealt with and that investigations are Honourable members interjecting. under way. That is the process that I think focuses on The SPEAKER — Order! The member for the safety of the children, which is the core of this: not Bendigo East on a point of order. Stop the clock! playing politics with vulnerable Victorian children — — Ms Allan — We would appreciate it actually if the clock would start for the minister’s answer. Honourable members interjecting. The SPEAKER — Order! That was a frivolous The SPEAKER — Order! The member for point of order. Lyndhurst! Mr RYAN — As I was saying, it has been a Ms WOOLDRIDGE — That is all we have had wonderful week for announcements, with from members of the opposition today. We have not 450 additional police coming out of the academy by had one question of substance in relation to the 30 June to be looking after Victorians — it is a protection of children from those who, in government, wonderful thing — and another 150 existing police placed children in harm’s way. That is the contrast being redeployed on to the front line. All of this is a between this government and the opposition. part of the delivery of the commitment made by the Mr Hulls — On a point of order, Speaker, I am sure Baillieu government in the campaign that we would you would take the same view as I do: that for the deliver another 1700 front-line operational police to minister to be saying that questions about vulnerable look after Victorians by the time this first term of our kids are not relevant, are not questions of substance, is government had concluded. an outrage. She should apologise to the house for In the course of this week’s announcement there was saying such an outrageous thing about vulnerable kids. another very pleasing aspect, which may have escaped The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of the attention of some, and that is why I bring it to the order. The minister has concluded her answer. attention of the house today. Of the police who will be taking up their posts by 30 June, 100 are going to join Mr Merlino interjected. the transit police force. This will mean we have 350 police surfing the system, looking after the interests The SPEAKER — Order! The member for of Victorians who use the transport system, doing the Monbulk is on a warning. sorts of things that the former Labor government could never ever hope to do and making sure that those Police: transit division people who travel the system in Victoria are kept safe. This is of course but a component of the package which Mrs BAUER (Carrum) — My question is to the we brought to the campaign. But the prospect of having Deputy Premier and Minister for Police and Emergency these additional 100 officers as part of the transit force Services. Will the minister inform the house of how the is an enormously wonderful announcement for those coalition government is delivering on its commitment people who do use the public transport system.

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874 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011

Only today I had the great pleasure of being down at Parliament need to be updated and circulated to all Southern Cross station where, in company with police, members of the house. we were jointly celebrating the fact of the imminent arrival of these 100 officers to join the transit force. It The SPEAKER — Order! I will look at the matter. will mean that the police will be able to carry out many more of their important projects by way of keeping the Ms Edwards — On a point of order, Speaker, I travelling public safe. They have already got in place draw your attention to sessional orders adopted by this Operation Trojan. They have had Operation Omni chamber requiring ministers to respond to adjournment running. They have got other projects which are matters within 30 days. On 1 March I raised an running as a matter of general course, and today was important matter in this place for the Minister for Water about Operation Barracuda. This is very important, calling on him to ensure that the independent inquiry because it means that we have police who are actually into the recent floods in Victoria investigate the coming into the centre of Melbourne. They start from prerelease policies of the water authorities, specifically the outer stations and travel in on the network to central Goulburn-Murray Water. I have not yet received a Melbourne in the course of the daily travel. That is but response from the minister, and I ask that you write to one component of what these transit police are doing in him and seek an explanation for this delay and a their important work. response to my adjournment matter.

In addition to this we have had the announcement over The SPEAKER — Order! I will write to the these last few weeks of the specialist transit police minister. team — initially 25 officers — whose members are Ms Halfpenny — On a point of order, Speaker, I able to be deployed to stations where there is a draw your attention to sessional orders adopted by this particular need. They will be able to ensure that where chamber requiring ministers to respond to adjournment the really bad trouble spots erupt there will be at least matters within 30 days. On 2 March I raised an 25 police — more on the really busy days — who will important matter in this place for the Minister for be able to respond to those areas of need. Planning in relation to continuing funding for the On top of all this we will be delivering 940 protective hugely successful Creating Better Places grants services officers (PSOs) to man railway platforms program initiated by the Brumby Labor government. across metropolitan Melbourne and right throughout the As yet I have not received a response to that regions in the major regional centres. The PSOs will be adjournment matter. I seek an explanation, and I ask there by the time our first term of government that you write to the minister asking why there has been concludes, adding strength to the system and keeping such a delay. Victorians safe. We are very proud to have delivered on The SPEAKER — Order! The matter has been the first element of this package. One hundred of these noted, and I will follow it through. police are going to the transit force — yet another promise made and kept. Mr Carbines — On a point of order, Speaker, I draw your attention to sessional orders adopted by this The SPEAKER — Order! The time for questions chamber requiring ministers to respond to adjournment has expired. matters within 30 days. On 2 March I raised an Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, I have important matter in this place for the Minister for Police been advised by the member for Tarneit that he was and Emergency Services, calling on the minister to doorstopped this morning by a Channel Ten reporter, ensure the reopening of the Heidelberg West police Gareth Boreham, within the parliamentary precinct. station in Altona Street. As I have not yet received a The member for Tarneit advises that a woman who response from the minister, I ask that you write to him identified herself as a government staff member and seek an explanation for this delay in responding to operating under the instruction of the government’s my adjournment matter. media director, who I am informed is Josephine The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Cafagna, recorded the member for Tarneit’s comments. Ivanhoe’s point of order has been noted. I ask As this incident occurred within the parliamentary government ministers to note that the sessional orders precinct, I ask that you consider this matter and advise state that they have 30 days to respond to matters raised whether you believe the longstanding protocols and on the adjournment. I ask all ministers in this house and practices governing the recording of members of ministers representing those from the other house to comply with the sessional orders.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AMENDMENT BILL 2011

Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 875

Mr Foley — On a point of order, Speaker, I too seek CRIMES AMENDMENT (BULLYING) to draw your attention to those same sessional orders BILL 2011 and in so doing perhaps highlight the fact that this government’s commitment to transparency has turned Introduction and first reading very much into spin and disdain. On 2 March I raised an important issue in this place calling on the Minister Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) — I move: for Planning to refer the processes surrounding the That I have leave to bring in a bill for an act to amend the decision regarding amendment C86 in the City of Port Crimes Act 1958, the Stalking Intervention Orders Act 2008 Phillip planning scheme, which governs the height and the Personal Safety Intervention Orders Act 2010 and for controls of 1 Albert Road — the so-called ‘tower of other purposes. power’ — and 35 Albert Road, to an independent Ms HENNESSY (Altona) — I request a brief public inquiry. As I have not yet received a response explanation of the bill from the Attorney-General. from the minister, I ask that you write to him and seek an explanation for his delay and a response to my Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) — The principal adjournment matter. purpose of the bill is to amend the Crimes Act 1958 in relation to the offence of stalking to make clear that a The SPEAKER — Order! The member’s point of range of conduct that constitutes serious bullying is order has been noted. covered by that offence.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AMENDMENT Motion agreed to. BILL 2011 Read first time. Introduction and first reading FAMILY VIOLENCE PROTECTION Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and AMENDMENT (SAFETY NOTICES) BILL Small Business) — I move: 2011 That I have leave to bring in a bill for an act to amend the Public Holidays Act 1993 and for other purposes. Introduction and first reading

Mr ANDREWS (Leader of the Opposition) — I Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) — I move: would be grateful to the minister if she could provide the house with a brief explanation of the bill. That I have leave to bring in a bill for an act to amend the Family Violence Protection Act 2008, the Personal Safety Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and Intervention Orders Act 2010 and for other purposes. Small Business) — I would be delighted to provide an Ms HENNESSY (Altona) — I request a brief explanation to the Leader of the Opposition. The bill explanation of the bill. will allow regional councils to have flexibility when they substitute a public holiday for Melbourne Cup Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) — The principal Day. It will allow regional councils to declare part-shire purpose of the bill is to remove the sunset provision arrangements or half-day holidays according to their applicable to family violence safety notices so that choice. This is something the previous government those notices will be ongoing. failed to do, and we are rectifying that situation. Motion agreed to. Motion agreed to. Read first time. Read first time. DENTAL HOSPITAL LAND BILL 2011

Introduction and first reading

Mr R. SMITH (Minister for Environment and Climate Change) introduced a bill for an act to provide for the revocation of the permanent reservation of the former dental hospital and dental school site in Parkville to facilitate the construction

PETITIONS

876 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre on Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne that site, to make consequential amendments to the North: duplication Royal Melbourne Hospital Act 1935 and for other purposes. To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria: The petition of certain citizens of the state of Victoria who Read first time. use Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road draws to the attention of the house the traffic congestion and delays that motorists experience, particularly between Pound and Thompsons PETITIONS roads.

Following petitions presented to house: In particular, we note: 1. There is considerable traffic congestion on Narre Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Warren-Cranbourne Road, between Pound and Centre: funding Thompsons roads.

To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria: 2. Narre Warren South is a fast-growing community.

The petition of the people of Victoria draws the house’s 3. Casey Central Shopping Centre is having a major attention to the Baillieu government’s refusal to commit to expansion, putting more pressure on Narre funding for the final stage of the Olivia Newton-John Cancer Warren-Cranbourne Road. and Wellness Centre at the Austin Hospital. The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative In particular, we note that, once completed, the Olivia Assembly urges the Baillieu government to ensure that funds Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre will be a for the duplication of Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road world-class facility, providing the latest cancer treatment and between Pound and Thompsons roads are provided in the care to patients. 2011 state budget. The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative By Ms GRALEY (Narre Warren South) Assembly of Victoria urge the Baillieu government as a (945 signatures). matter of urgency to provide funding to complete the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre. Tabled. By Mr BROOKS (Bundoora) (1195 signatures). Ordered that petition presented by honourable Rail: regional link member for Bundoora be considered next day on motion of Mr BROOKS (Bundoora). To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria: Ordered that petition presented by honourable The petition of Wyndham residents and public transport users member for Lara be considered next day on motion in the western suburbs of Melbourne draws to the attention of the house the Baillieu government’s failure to commit to the of Mr EREN (Lara). regional rail link project. In particular we note the project would provide: Ordered that petition presented by honourable member for Narre Warren South be considered 1. Capacity for an extra 9000 passengers per hour by next day on motion of Ms GRALEY (Narre Warren providing up to 12 extra train services every hour on the Werribee, Sydenham and Craigieburn lines. South).

2. Two new stations in Manor Lakes and Tarneit with the Manor Lakes train tracks to be located in a full-depth SCRUTINY OF ACTS AND REGULATIONS cutting between Lollypop Creek and Ballan Road in Wyndham Vale. COMMITTEE

3. Fourteen new grade separations to ensure no new Alert Digest No. 3 road/rail level crossings will be constructed, making sure that local road links continue to flow. Ms CAMPBELL (Pascoe Vale) presented Alert Digest No. 3 of 2011 on: 4. Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo with 50 kilometres of dedicated new rail track running from West Werribee to Education and Training Reform Amendment Sunshine and then through to Southern Cross station. (School Safety) Bill 2010 The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Fisheries Amendment Bill 2011 Assembly of Victoria ensure that this vital project proceeds. Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation By Mr EREN (Lara) (381 signatures). and Reform Council) Bill 2011 Justice Legislation Amendment Bill 2011

DOCUMENTS

Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 877

Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011 Melton — C65 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011 South Gippsland — C55 Parliamentary Salaries and Superannuation Amendment Bill 2011 Southern Grampians — C19 Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public Yarra — C103, C131. Housing) Bill 2011 The following proclamations fixing operative dates together with appendices. were tabled by the Clerk in accordance with an order of the House dated 8 February 2011: Tabled. Education and Training Reform Amendment (Skills) Act Ordered to be printed. 2010 — Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 (except Divisions 3, 4, 5, 7 and 9), Part 4 (except ss 55(3), 56, 59 and Division 3), Part 5 and Part 6 (except s 72(1)) and the Schedule — 1 April DOCUMENTS 2011; Division 3 of Part 4 — 1 July 2011; Divisions 3, 4, 7 and 9 of Part 3 — 1 January 2012 (Gazette S102, 29 March 2011) Tabled by Clerk: Justice Legislation Further Amendment Act 2010 — Part 3 — Accident Compensation Act 1985 — Order approving 22 March 2011 (Gazette S95, 22 March 2011). compliance codes under s 212 (five documents)

Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 — Order under s 17B granting a licence over St Kilda Botanical Gardens Reserve ROYAL ASSENT

Financial Management Act 1994 — Report from the Minister Message read advising royal assent on 29 March to: for Finance that he had received the Report 2009–10 of VicFleet Pty Ltd together with an explanation for the delay Civil Procedure and Legal Profession Amendment Bill 2011 Members of Parliament (Register of Interests) Act 1978 — Summary of Primary Return April 2011 and Summary of Police Regulation Amendment (Protective Variations notified between 8 February 2001 and 4 April Services Officers) Bill 2010 2011 — Ordered to be printed Shop Trading Reform Amendment (Easter Parliamentary Committees Act 2003: Sunday) Bill 2011 Shrine of Remembrance Amendment Bill 2011. Government response to the Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee’s Report on the Inquiry into State Government Taxation and Debt APPROPRIATION MESSAGES Government response to the Road Safety Committee’s Report on the Inquiry into Pedestrian Safety in Car Messages read recommending appropriations for: Parks Fisheries Amendment Bill 2011 Planning and Environment Act 1987 — Notices of approval of amendments to the following Planning Schemes: Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation and Reform Council) Bill 2011 Bass Coast — C116 Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011 Benalla — C13 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011.

Brimbank — C113, C125 Part 1 BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE Frankston — C72

Greater Bendigo — C133, C136 Program Greater Dandenong — C128, C130 Mr McINTOSH (Minister for Corrections) — I move: Greater Geelong — C215, C218, C221, C238

Hume — C129 That, under standing order 94(2), the orders of the day, government business, relating to the following bills be Kingston — C113 considered and completed by 10.00 p.m. on Wednesday, 6 April 2011: Knox — C103 Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation and Maribyrnong — C47 Reform Council) Bill 2011

BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE

878 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011

Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011 Changing sessional orders to accommodate those needs Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) is a dramatic step, but it is a step that is necessary so Bill 2011 that Victorians have the opportunity for their Treasurer to go to Canberra, to put forward Victoria’s case and to and the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011 contingent upon ensure that we do not have $2.5 billion ripped out of it being made an order of the day for Wednesday, 6 April 2011. our coffers. To do otherwise would be irresponsible. The government wants to be responsible in relation to There are a couple of matters I need to address in this matter, and that is why we have listed these moving this motion. The first matter is that the motions non-controversial matters for Thursday and why the on the address-in-reply and the earthquake and tsunami government business program will be completed by in Japan are still on the notice paper. We are providing Wednesday evening. an opportunity to the house to consider those two matters on Thursday. There are still a number of Ms ALLAN (Bendigo East) — I rise to speak on the speakers who wish to make a contribution to debate on motion before the house regarding the government’s those motions, and we will provide that opportunity business program, which, regrettably, the opposition is prior to the adjournment on Thursday. The second not in a position to support. I will go through the matter is that the government business program has reasons for that position. been limited to four bills. We have done that Honourable members interjecting. deliberately because we wish to have the government business program completed by 10.00 p.m. tomorrow. I Ms ALLAN — If members opposite are surprised, am sure there will be an opportunity over the next two perhaps they could seek some guidance from their days for members wanting to make a contribution to leadership as to why the opposition continues to be debate on those four bills to do so. I believe the time we treated with contempt and disregard by the government have allowed for debate is adequate. when it comes to setting the program for this chamber. We understand that the chamber performs at its best I note that there is another most important when there is cooperation and some flexibility on both consideration. The government wants to ensure that sides. However, we are yet to witness that. We are yet Victorians are represented in Canberra and that they to witness — — have the Treasurer of Victoria making that representation on their behalf so that we do not have Mr McIntosh interjected. $2.5 billion ripped out of our government coffers over the next four years. The opposition parties in Tasmania, The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the South Australia and Western Australia have provided House! pairs to enable the treasurers of their governments to go to Canberra. That provision has been denied by the Ms ALLAN — We are yet to witness any sort of opposition here. Accordingly the controversial matters negotiation and flexibility being offered by the in relation to the four bills I have mentioned will be government. dealt with before Thursday and we will have to deal with the motions on the address-in-reply and the Mr McIntosh interjected. tsunami and earthquake in Japan on Thursday. The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the House Members will be given those opportunities in a has had his opportunity. non-controversial manner. Ms ALLAN — The specific matters I refer to are The important thing is that this is being done because the two notices of motion — as innocuous as they may the opposition wants to put petty politics before appear at first blush — that the Leader of the House just Victorian families. It is that issue that causes the moved to change the orders of the day in relation to the government and the people of Victoria profound Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011 and the sessional concern. It is unlike what has happened in Tasmania, orders. It would have been nice, courteous and in line South Australia and Western Australia and unlike what with previous norms of the house for the opposition to happened when we were a responsible opposition and have been given a heads-up and to have been advised provided a pair to Mr Lenders in the other place to that this was coming. I can understand that from time to make those sorts of representations as Treasurer. time when there are politics around issues the This opposition will not in any way contemplate that, opposition will not always be brought into the and accordingly we have to deal with these matters in government’s confidence, but on matters like this — an appropriate fashion and get the bills through. matters that are reasonably straightforward and

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 879 benign — it would be courteous and appropriate for Ms ALLAN — It is fair to say that the practice on there to be some discussion across the chamber, as both sides of the house has not been to provide a pair happened previously. for ministers to attend ministerial council meetings. This was a particular issue when Labor was in We are seeing the complete arrogance of members who government between 1999 and 2002. At that time it have been in this place for less than 150 days. For them was not a majority government; it was a minority to be behaving like arrogant government backbenchers government, and there was not the opportunity to have within such a short period of time reminds us of the pairs afforded to the government of that time. period of office — — In this circumstance we have a majority government. Mr Shaw interjected. The Treasurer attending the ministerial council will not change the outcomes on the floor of this Parliament. It The SPEAKER — Order! The member for is not up to the opposition to do the job of the Treasurer Frankston will desist from interjecting in that manner. and the government for them. To try to blame the Ms ALLAN — It reminds us well of the period opposition demonstrates once again that this is a between 1992 and 1999 when the then government that still, after nearly 150 days, has not Liberal-Nationals government treated this chamber and come to grips with the fact that it is in charge here. It the opposition with complete contempt. has to determine the legislative agenda. The government, not the opposition, has to determine the I am pleased to also have the opportunity to make some Treasurer’s agenda. That is why we fully support the comment about the issue of the Treasurer’s attendance Treasurer going to the ministerial council, but we are at the ministerial conference on Thursday. We fully not in a position to support this government business support the Treasurer attending his ministerial council program. meeting on Thursday. We fully support — — Mr O’BRIEN (Minister for Gaming) — The Mr McIntosh interjected. government accepts responsibility for its business program, and that is why we have moved this motion: The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the to make sure that the bills on our legislative program House! are debated and passed by the Parliament this week. It is because we take responsibility for this legislative Ms ALLAN — We fully support the Treasurer’s program that this motion is now before the house. attendance at the ministerial council. I wrote to the government advising its members of that. It was Nothing demonstrates the absolute failure of leadership interesting to see the government seeking that the by the Leader of the Opposition and the member for opposition do its job for it. It is not our decision as to Bendigo East more than their not being prepared to whether the Treasurer goes to the ministerial council. It provide a pair to the Treasurer so he can fight in is not for the opposition to determine the Treasurer’s Victoria’s corner at the federal meeting of treasurers. It diary; that is solely a matter for the Treasurer and for is an absolute failure of political leadership on the part the government, and accordingly that is what we of members opposite. As the member for Kew said, this communicated to the government. is a perfect example of how members opposite are more interested in playing petty politics than they are in The Treasurer should feel absolutely free to attend. We standing up for Victorian families. are glad he is attending. However, we are just following the past practices of this house. If members check the This course of conduct we have seen from the pairs book, they will see that no pair has been granted opposition since the election betrays its contempt for in this chamber since May 2001. The pair that was the election result. The bitterness that opposition granted at that time and the pair that was also granted in members have shown since the election of the April of the same year were both for legitimate personal Baillieu-Ryan government has infected all their conduct health reasons, which we understand come up from in this place. They have taken every opportunity to time to time. You have to go back to 1993 in the pairs attempt to disrupt proceedings, and they have taken book to find another pair that has been granted in this every opportunity to call quorums. In the last sitting chamber. week we even saw the bizarre spectacle of the member for Northcote calling a quorum while the member for Mr Hodgett interjected. Tarneit was on his feet giving a speech. They are calling quorums against each other. That shows how The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Kilsyth! out of control the opposition is and how it has

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880 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 absolutely no respect for the election result. Opposition is proposing to inflict on Victoria. We have heard what members are acting like a government in exile. They that is going to mean for Victorian families, Victorian are throwing the toys out of the cot like a bunch of services and Victorian public sector workers. Let us not upset children. That is way they are behaving in relation hear any more cant or hypocrisy from members to the running of this house. opposite about how they care about the Victorian public service or public sector workers, because when the This government takes responsibility for getting its rubber hits the road and the coalition government wants legislation through, which is why this motion is before to stand up to what Canberra is proposing to do — the house. Let me talk about the hypocrisy of members wants to stand up for Victoria’s budget, wants to stand opposite. On the weekend we saw them out there up for decent services in this state — who is standing in before the press as if butter would not melt in their our way? It is the members of the Labor Party, a mouths, saying, ‘Who — us stopping the Treasurer hypocritical opposition. going to Canberra?’! Then later there was some further commentary, with the Labor Party saying, ‘Actually we Mr WYNNE (Richmond) — What hubris and think the Treasurer is trying to get a pair so he can arrogance from this government. Today we see this avoid scrutiny. We think the Treasurer should be here unedifying spectacle of the Leader of the House having at question time’. The opposition apparently did not to truncate debate on important bills that, as we well want him to be there. recall from the last time we sat, we did not even have the opportunity of a two-week break to thoroughly First of all it said it wanted him to go to Canberra, but consult in relation to a number of bills that are up for then it said, ‘No, he’s dodging scrutiny; he should be in debate today. I refer specifically to a bill that we will be Parliament on Thursday to face questions at question debating sometime over the truncated period of the next time’. But today we have heard the member for two days, which is the amendment bill in relation to Bendigo East say, ‘No, the opposition does not oppose public housing matters. I am sure members of the house the Treasurer going to Canberra; we are happy for him will be well aware that that is an issue of significant to go to Canberra, and he should go to Canberra’. concern to this side of the house. Nonetheless we will Maybe the member for Bendigo East did not get the have to debate that bill and the other three bills over the memo, but members on her own side said, ‘If he goes next, in effect, day and a half. That is all for the sole to Canberra, he is ducking scrutiny in the house’. They purpose of ensuring that on Thursday Victoria will be do not know what they are talking about. They are represented at the Treasurers conference. We have confused because they are directionless and absolutely indicated very clearly, including over the weekend and leaderless. today through the member for Bendigo East and the Leader of the Opposition, that we support the The member for Bendigo East referred to pairs and Treasurer — — took us back to 2001. She did her research — I saw her standing there looking at the pairs book, and she said, Mr McIntosh interjected. ‘The last time there was a pair in this place was 2001’. Yes, that was a situation where the government of the The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the day was in a narrow situation in terms of its ability to House! We would like to hear the member for get legislation through, and the responsible course of Richmond in silence. action of the opposition of the day was to provide a pair, because we acknowledged the will of the people Mr WYNNE — We support the government of Victoria and the democratic result of the election. attending that important conference because the We acknowledged that, and we facilitated a pair in that government will still have control of the chamber. It is a situation where the numbers were tight. fact that on any vote the government would have control of the chamber. What do we see when the Labor Party is in opposition and the government has a narrow majority? We see a The Leader of the House indicated that there had been a complete repudiation of that fundamental decency pairing on an occasion during the last term of our which says that the government has been elected, it has government. In 2001 there was a pair on one occasion. a majority and it has a right to govern, and it should be As the member would be aware, that was the provided with a pair when the interests of the state are particularly tragic circumstance of the passing of the on the line — and the interests of the state are on the partner of one of our ministers. To come into the line. We have heard right throughout question time chamber, as the member has done, and seek to make a today what the impact will be of the $2.5 billion in cuts petty, cheap political point in relation to a member of to the GST revenue that the federal Labor government this house and the death of her husband is

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 881 reprehensible. In the entire time of the previous reign of way in trying to block the Treasurer from going to this government, it provided no pairs. We say to the Canberra. The facts are that the South Australian, government that this is an important meeting which is Western Australian and Tasmanian parliaments are all to occur on Thursday, that we would expect the sitting this week and have all paired to allow their Treasurer to attend and we welcome his being at that treasurers to attend. If the truth be known in relation to meeting to represent the interests of this state. There is the contributions we have heard from those opposite, if no reason for the Treasurer not to be at that meeting. they were acting in the interests of Victorians they The government controls the house. It controls the would quite simply cooperate and offer a pair to allow affairs of the house and it will have the numbers on the the Treasurer to go to Canberra. That is an undisputable floor of the chamber on Thursday when any of these fact. bills are debated and voted upon. Those are simply the facts of the matter. On this side of the house we believe in and support putting the interests of Victorians first, and clearly those It is wrong that the government can manipulate, as it opposite just want to put politics first. It is a disgrace, it will do with its numbers here today when we divide on is irresponsible, it is obstructionist and they deserve to this matter, important bills that ought to be debated and be in opposition, where they are. given enough time to be debated over the three days of this sitting week. It has chosen to truncate debate and Mr PALLAS (Tarneit) — I rise to oppose the not provide that opportunity, as will happen in relation government business program. In so doing I note that it to the bill I have an interest in, where a range of is important that we recognise that there is no speakers who would seek to speak on that bill will have requirement or need for the government to be provided their opportunity to do so truncated. This is simply a with a pair. Government members control the majority stunt. The government should send the Treasurer to and the numbers in this chamber. That being the case, Canberra on Thursday because it has control of the we are left with the confounding question: who is it that house. those opposite do not trust to provide them with the numbers on that side of the chamber? Who is it they are Mr HODGETT (Kilsyth) — What a load of wind! concerned about? It is my pleasure to rise to make a few brief comments on the government business program. We are all elected to this place by our constituencies to represent their interests in this chamber. We of Mr Wynne interjected. course — —

The SPEAKER — Order! The member for An honourable member interjected. Richmond has had his opportunity to speak. Mr PALLAS — Not only have I been there, but I Mr HODGETT — Members opposite can argue have been able to secure Labor’s regional rail — — and carry on all they want but the reality is that this is a responsible action to allow the government to get its The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Tarneit government business program through in an orderly will address the Chair. and responsible manner. On this side of the house we too have a number of speakers on the Health Services Mr PALLAS — The principal objectives of the Amendment (Health Innovation and Reform Council) relevant arrangements are to ensure the smooth Bill 2011, the Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill functioning of this chamber. There is no need for a pair 2011, the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011 and the to be granted in circumstances where the majority in Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) this chamber is available to the government to Bill 2011. prosecute its business paper. Government members are so unsure of their ability to prosecute business in this As was outlined by the Leader of the House, we still place that it is as if they need a security blanket in have to return to debate on the motion about the which they want to wrap themselves. They are not earthquake and tsunami in Japan. A number of exactly sure about this situation because they are not members who were affected by those disasters wish to particularly numerate. But who could blame them for make a contribution on the motion. There is also the that? After all they have a Treasurer who did not know address-in-reply to the Governor’s speech to be the difference between capital and recurrent continued. As was succinctly outlined by the Leader of expenditure and who went into the witness protection the House and the Minister for Gaming, the fact is that program before the last election. Now they say it is those opposite are acting in a disgracefully irresponsible desperately important for the people of Victoria that we pull the Treasurer out of the witness protection program

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882 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 and out of his luncheon dates with his costers in order God help us, represent Victoria’s interests however he for him to represent the interests of Victoria. might see fit. He is well supported by an efficient and effective Treasury; let us hope Treasury staff are there Mr Weller — You agreed with it. You agreed he and can help him with the numbers. Clearly those should be going. opposite need a heck of a lot more help than they are getting. Mr PALLAS — The member for Rodney said, ‘You agreed he should go’. We do agree he should go; House divided on motion: we just do not agree he needs a pair. Those opposite are so innumerate that they cannot work this out, perhaps Ayes, 44 because it takes more fingers and thumbs than they Angus, Mr Mulder, Mr have available. Perhaps they should take their shoes and Asher, Ms Napthine, Dr socks off and count their toes. The fact is that they do Baillieu, Mr Newton-Brown, Mr Battin, Mr Northe, Mr not need the extra numbers; they already have the Bauer, Mrs O’Brien, Mr numbers. Their concern comes from not having any Blackwood, Mr Powell, Mrs confidence in their own numbers. Their concern is that Bull, Mr Ryall, Ms as a government they cannot manage their own Burgess, Mr Ryan, Mr business program. They are so concerned about the Clark, Mr Shaw, Mr Crisp, Mr Smith, Mr R. fairness and processes that this place affords to the Delahunty, Mr Southwick, Mr Treasurer — — Dixon, Mr Sykes, Dr Fyffe, Mrs Thompson, Mr Honourable members interjecting. Gidley, Mr Tilley, Mr Hodgett, Mr Victoria, Mrs Mr PALLAS — Then let’s send the Treasurer — Katos, Mr Wakeling, Mr send him! You do not need a pair to do it. You still Kotsiras, Mr Walsh, Mr McCurdy, Mr Watt, Mr have the numbers in this place. The business of this McIntosh, Mr Weller, Mr place can be prosecuted fairly and efficiently, and it McLeish, Ms Wells, Mr does not require that one member of this place, properly Miller, Ms Wooldridge, Ms elected, need abrogate their responsibilities to their Morris, Mr Wreford, Ms constituency when a vote occurs or when they need to Noes, 43 speak on issues of substance and importance. Only Allan, Ms Hulls, Mr when needed, of course, should a pair be provided, and Andrews, Mr Hutchins, Ms then only in the most necessitous of circumstances. Barker, Ms Kairouz, Ms Beattie, Ms Knight, Ms Those opposite have so misconstrued the processes of Brooks, Mr Languiller, Mr this place — they are so innumerate and so unprepared Campbell, Ms Lim, Mr Carbines, Mr McGuire, Mr to manage the business of this place — that they come D’Ambrosio, Ms Madden, Mr to the opposition asking us to help them: ‘We have not Donnellan, Mr Merlino, Mr actually worked out the maths’. We should all kick in Duncan, Ms Nardella, Mr for a calculator for them! It is quite apparent that they Edwards, Ms Neville, Ms Eren, Mr Noonan, Mr do not need a pair. Their level of insecurity and Foley, Mr Pallas, Mr incompetence is breathtaking. The great thing, though, Garrett, Ms Pandazopoulos, Mr is that if they cannot win a debate they just change the Graley, Ms Perera, Mr rules under which the debate occurs. So what we have Green, Ms Pike, Ms from this government of feckless phoneys is essentially Halfpenny, Ms Richardson, Ms Helper, Mr Scott, Mr a proposal that we change the sessional orders in order Hennessy, Ms Thomson, Ms to achieve an outcome that government members could Herbert, Mr Trezise, Mr not ordinarily get through the normal functioning and Holding, Mr Wynne, Mr processes of this chamber. What an outrage! It is back Howard, Mr to the old days of, ‘If the rules don’t suit, change the Motion agreed to. rules so that you are set up to get the outcome you want’.

There is no need for a pair to be granted. There is no need for it to allow the Treasurer, as innumerate and concerned as he may be, to go off to Canberra, and,

MEMBERS STATEMENTS

Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 883

MEMBERS STATEMENTS moving experience awaits all those who attend this amazing show at the Melbourne Museum. Autism: eastern suburbs school Eaglehawk Primary School: future Mrs VICTORIA (Bayswater) — The Victorian government has funded the establishment of a P–12 Ms ALLAN (Bendigo East) — Last week the school for children with autism spectrum disorders. The Liberal-Nationals government called for submissions, new outer eastern school enables students to gain via an advertisement in the Bendigo Advertiser, on the access to specialised education facilities. This project future of the Eaglehawk Primary School. I am had been the subject of great concern to local residents encouraging the local community to take the time to after Labor again proved that it had put politics above make a submission to ensure that all the options around Victorian families by claiming it would fund it if the future of education in the Eaglehawk community re-elected, even though it had misled these dedicated are considered. parents, staff and students into thinking the money was already allocated. I say shame on Labor for trying to The Liberal-Nationals government and its local trick these people, and I thank the Treasurer and the representative, a member for Northern Victoria Region Minister for Education for their commitment to this in the other place, Mr Drum, have not made any public project. statements about the calling for submissions and the placing of an advertisement last Friday. I am deeply Loral Ipsum: expansion concerned about what this means for the students at Eaglehawk Primary School and for the parents who had Mrs VICTORIA — Yesterday I helped celebrate planned to send their children to the new $11 million the expansion of a wonderful local business, Loral school that was planned to be built at Comet Hill. There Ipsum (Aust) Pty Ltd. Since 1997, Greg and Wendi is now massive uncertainty in the local community Pearce have been manufacturing and bottling quality about the future of this $11 million school. cleaning products. Over 70 people are employed by Loral Ipsum. This adds security to existing jobs and The government, the Minister for Education and provides the capacity to take on new staff. This is a Mr Drum, in calling for submissions and, according to company that believes success in industry is not the Bendigo Advertiser, ‘looking at the needs of dependent on offshore operations but on quality Eaglehawk PS’, need to allow this consultation process products and customer satisfaction. to consider all the education options for children in the local community. They should not run away and hide Monash Gallery of Art behind the department and consultants on this important issue. Mrs VICTORIA — Monash Gallery of Art is a renowned photographic gallery which relies heavily on I am forced to make this statement in the Parliament the kindness of lovers of this medium to continue their because, as I said, the government, including the outstanding work and collection. Congratulations to all minister and the local member, have not made a public those who dug so deeply at the annual auction on statement about the placement of this advertisement or Saturday. about the calling for submissions on the future of Eaglehawk Primary School, and I want to make sure Castlemaine State Festival that the local community, which I represent in Bendigo East, is fully apprised of the details of this and can Mrs VICTORIA — Congratulations to Martin make submissions accordingly. Paten and all involved with the opening night of the Castlemaine State Festival. A truly community Schools: Ferntree Gully electorate inclusive event, it showed the depth of talent we have in this area of Victoria. Mr WAKELING (Ferntree Gully) — I was very pleased to attend the recent announcement of the Melbourne Museum: Tutankhamun exhibition coalition’s $8 million commitment to fund stage 2 of the eastern autistic school. This funding has been Mrs VICTORIA — The Pompeii and Titanic warmly received by local residents and forms part of a exhibitions were huge hits for the Melbourne Museum, $23 million funding commitment by the Baillieu but I think Dr Patrick Greene and his team have government to rebuild five schools in Ferntree Gully outdone themselves with the amazing Tutankhamun during this term of government. exhibition. A truly jaw-dropping and exceptionally

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884 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011

Stud Road: bus lanes and how they learn. It will also provide students with modern, state-of-the-art facilities designed for improved Mr WAKELING — Knox residents have educational outcomes. The transition to eight schools expressed their joy at the removal of the hugely has been a smooth one so far. This project has been unpopular Stud Road bus lane between Ferntree Gully very successful, with positive feedback from the and Kelletts roads in Rowville. The former Brumby community, principals, teachers, parents and students. It government had removed a lane of Stud Road to install is vital that this important development continue under a bus lane. Knox residents railed against the the new Baillieu government. The school regeneration establishment of this bus lane. The previous board is eagerly awaiting the stage 2 funding, which is government showed its refusal to listen to the needs of to the tune of $16.9 million. This funding is absolutely my community by removing this section of all-vehicle necessary to ensure that the regeneration project road, and I am pleased to see that the Baillieu continues successfully and the new infrastructure is government has acted swiftly to return this section of built to cater for new and existing students. road to an all-vehicle lane. Recently I wrote to the Minister for Education to seek Lakesfield Drive–Napoleon Drive, Lysterfield: his full support for this vitally important project. I asked keep-clear marking what the plans were going forward and what funding will be available to complete the project. I have sent the Mr WAKELING — I am pleased to advise that the letter twice, but I am yet to receive a response. I fear coalition government’s commitment to install that without the funding that is required to further keep-clear markings at the intersection of Lakesfield stage 2, the project will be jeopardised and success will Drive and Napoleon Road, Lysterfield, has been not be assured. delivered. As early as August 2007 I wrote to the former Minister for Roads and Ports requesting the I want to reiterate that Arda Duck, who has now passed keep-clear markings, but my request was refused. away, was the project manager. The project will be a Again in July 2008 I presented a petition, which was great legacy for her. She was a champion of this tabled in Parliament, about this issue. This was also project, and I would really appreciate it being funded. ignored by the former government. The Labor government was not willing to act, but after years of Fishing: high country competition Labor’s inaction the coalition’s election promise has been delivered to the community. Mr BULL (Gippsland East) — I wish to note the terrific work of the Omeo and Benambra angling clubs Clean Up Australia Day: Ferntree Gully in planning the inaugural Victorian high country fishing classic scheduled for 31 December this year and Mr WAKELING — I wish to thank the many 1 January next year. It will be a magnificent event. The residents who joined me on Sunday, 6 March, at my clubs are expecting between 300 and 500 entries, and Clean Up Australia Day site at Ferny Creek Recreation they are undertaking this event with a view to boosting Reserve in Ferntree Gully. The event was well attended the local economy and introducing to the Victorian high by local residents, who assisted in the removal of a country people who have not been there before. It will significant amount of rubbish from this important be marketed to interstate, intrastate and — hopefully — community reserve. international anglers. Local organisers are very passionate and keen to make this event a huge success. Corio-Norlane education regeneration project Much is known about the great saltwater fishing Mr EREN (Lara) — I wish to take this opportunity options of the Gippsland region, but often our today to talk about the extremely important freshwater angling is overlooked. The good folk of Corio-Norlane education regeneration project. As Omeo and Benambra are passionate about their region members may be aware, stage 1 of this three-stage and the future of their townships, and they see this as a project was funded by the previous Brumby Labor good way to attract people to the region. government to the tune of $10 million. It involved eight school communities collaborating to form a brand-new In line with responsible fishing practices it will be a school located on five campuses. catch-and-release competition, so photos have to be taken of the fish caught. Prizes will be secret weight The new Northern Bay schools will allow for a more and some trout will be tagged so that if they are caught, collaborative and flexible approach to teaching, which a special prize will be awarded to the successful angler. means students will be more involved in what, where

MEMBERS STATEMENTS

Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 885

Orbost Cricket Club: premiership Bonbeach Life Saving Club: fundraiser

Mr BULL — I also congratulate members of the Mrs BAUER (Carrum) — Sunday, 20 March, saw Orbost Cricket Club on winning the Bairnsdale Cricket the Bonbeach Life Saving Club hold its annual open Association A-grade premiership on the weekend water swim, and I enjoyed presenting awards to the before last. For many years the easy beat of the BCA, in placegetters. This is the club’s biggest fundraiser of the recent years the club has become a powerhouse due to year, and I am sure everyone in this place recognises strong administration, development of juniors and a the vital work that lifesavers across our state perform. proactive approach to attracting international players. My congratulations go to the competitors and also to Sporting clubs are often the hubs of rural communities. the club for hosting such a successful event. I congratulate Orbost Cricket Club. Emily Prinnet Police: city of Wyndham Mrs BAUER — On 11 March I was delighted to Mr PALLAS (Tarneit) — I would like to raise a attend the 106th birthday party of Emily Prinnet. I was matter regarding police resources in Wyndham and the warmly welcomed by residents and also shared cake recent allocation of only eight new police officers to and a sherry with Emily. I wish Emily all the best for that area. The Brumby Labor government built the the future. Wyndham North police station and provided approximately 27 additional police officers to staff that Patterson River Secondary College: basketball facility. The Brumby government’s last budget funded and netball stadium approximately 1700 extra police officers, and we are now seeing the first of those additional police officers Mrs BAUER — Patterson River Secondary College coming into the community. recently opened its new basketball and netball stadium, and it was my great pleasure to attend its first Big V Wyndham is Victoria’s fastest growing municipality, basketball game. This magnificent facility will be used with growth of 8.8 per cent or over 12 500 people and enjoyed by the school, sporting clubs and the moving into the area every year. Unfortunately it seems Carrum electorate for years to come. to have been overlooked when it comes to significant increases in police numbers, even though it has over Schools: upgrades 150 000 residents. Mrs BAUER — The opposition has been busy As Wyndham’s population grows, crime rates continue claiming that the Victorian government is turning its to increase, especially in the areas of assault, family back on students and schools. I remind those opposite violence, youth-related incidents, difficulties relating to that while in government they oversaw the closure or emerging cultural groups and issues in the industrial merging of 135 primary or secondary schools. area. This increase in crime has seen the workload of Members of the former government spent 11 years the Werribee Magistrates Court grow from two to five sitting on their hands whilst schools closed, hospitals days per week, which further burdens local officers in were left half-funded and our transport system was left their role of escorting prisoners to court. Wyndham to decay, yet they happily contend that this government, police also have responsibility for responding to only four months in, will not commit to election incidents at Werribee Mercy Hospital and its attached promises made by Labor. In fact $250 million has been psychiatric unit as well as Port Phillip Prison, which is allocated to the upgrading of Victorian schools. located within the city of Wyndham. Maryborough fire brigade: 150th anniversary With the expansion of the urban growth boundary and an ever-increasing population, Wyndham’s police Mr HELPER (Ripon) — I would like to use this officers are now stretched to a ratio of 1 to 1400, a far opportunity to acknowledge the generations of cry from the state average of 1 to 400. With the training Maryborough firefighters — both men and women — of 1700 police officers — — who have served their community for more than 150 years. On Saturday, 26 March, the Maryborough fire The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The brigade celebrated its 150th anniversary, and I was member’s time has expired. grateful to have been present at the dinner that night. The brigade was formed after community agitation following the destruction of the Freemasons Hotel in

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1861, and since then it has had a long and proud history will feel the effect of the cut to the Victorian budget as of protecting the community. a result of Canberra’s decision to decrease Victoria’s GST receipts. Labor believes its own desperate and It is interesting to note that the brigade’s foundation selfish political interests are far more important than captain, Thomas Casey, served in that role from 1861 to supporting the fight for Victoria’s fair share. 1917, or 56 years — an extraordinary length of service. In fact the average time of service by captains of this Our Treasurer, Kim Wells, needs to represent Victoria brigade is 15 years, a demonstration of each captain’s and its financial future in Canberra, and he should be dedication. This is true of the present captain, Darryl granted leave from Parliament for that one day to fight Wagstaff, who has led the brigade very ably over the for Victorians. The refusal by Labor to grant this last 22 years. He also conducted proceedings during the request is a low and despicable act and further 150th celebration dinner with much aplomb — for jeopardises Victoria’s financial future. instance, he led all present in a fine rendition of the brigade’s song. Given the long service history of this Melbourne Food and Wine Festival: Afghan brigade, I think it is only appropriate that its song be at banquet long last committed to Hansard. It is best for all present that I do not sing it, but the words of the chorus are Mr PANDAZOPOULOS (Dandenong) — It is a indeed a gem. They are: pleasure to stand up and highlight the fantastic events that took place in Dandenong as part of the Melbourne Then long life to the fire brigade Food and Wine Festival, an event with which I have For their motto is ‘Who’s afraid?’ been associated and which I helped bring to Should fire be raging Dandenong. I commend Liz Van Doorn and the You’ll find them engaging VicUrban team in Dandenong, which has been working In the work of the fire brigade on revitalising central Dandenong, for bringing the I thank current and past brigade members for their Afghan banquet to Dandenong Market. This event saw service over the last 150 years. 650 people, mostly from outside Dandenong, come to the area as part of the Melbourne Food and Wine Treasurer: ministerial council attendance Festival to see the new Dandenong and to taste the multicultural food in the area. Dandenong has its own Mr HODGETT (Kilsyth) — I wish to condemn Afghan bazaar, the only one outside Afghanistan, as Labor opposition members for further jeopardising well as the only Little India in the Southern Victoria’s financial future. They have refused the Hemisphere, and that is what the food and wine festival Treasurer leave from Parliament to attend a vital is really all about. ministerial meeting in Canberra. This meeting, to be held on Thursday, will discuss the GST carve-up. It is I also commend Natalie O’Brien and Tony Tan from vitally important that the Treasurer represent and fight the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival, who entrusted for Victoria’s fair share at this meeting, but the Labor Dandenong with this event. They shared their Party insists on engaging in reckless, irresponsible and knowledge, supported us and walked us through the petty politics by refusing leave. process, believing that the festival creates a wonderful opportunity for us to help reposition and rebrand Three other state parliaments — Western Australia, ourselves as part of the new Dandenong. There are South Australia and Tasmania — are in session this amazing culinary treats that you will find only in week, and the opposition parties in each of these three Dandenong, including from the Uygur community of states have granted their treasurers leave from north-western China. Parliament to attend the ministerial meeting in Canberra. Previously the Victorian Parliament has I look forward to working with VicUrban and the granted leave to the then Labor Treasurer to attend such council so that we can grow the event next year and meetings, but this Labor opposition refuses to do so. highlight the other stages and opportunities available as part of the festival, in which Dandenong now plays a It is hardly surprising that Labor members have refused key role. leave for the Treasurer to attend the meeting when they have been silent about Victoria losing $2.5 billion in Relay for Life: Cobram Barooga GST receipts and not said one word about the extraordinarily unfair treatment of our state. This Mr McCURDY (Murray Valley) — It is with silence indicates that Victorian Labor clearly supports a pleasure that I congratulate Cobram Barooga Relay for $2.5 billion cut to Victoria’s finances. Every Victorian Life, which at its very first event has raised over

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$120 000 for cancer research. Under area coordinator Easter and Anzac Day holidays and many people will Rob Petrie and through its tireless efforts, the volunteer have limited opportunity to turn their minds to such committee put on a truly amazing event. Almost consultation. The planning minister will have the final 1000 registered entrants took part in the inaugural event say in deciding whether or not the land can be rezoned. at the Cobram showgrounds, with 34 team tents The racing minister could also assist the Moonee bordering the grounds. Donations are still rolling in. Valley Racing Club by providing financial support The top fundraiser was Penny Snow, who raised $4660. through unallocated racing dividends. Before the last The top team, the Cobram Barooga runners and cycling election the Liberal Party said it would stop high-rise club, raised $14 565 in an amazing effort — but every and support the racing industry. This is its chance to single donation counts. It is frightening to realise that show it will keep its word and, rather than making every 5 minutes an Australian is diagnosed with cancer. Moonee Valley an Unhappy Valley, maintain it as the While survival rates are improving every day, cancer place we have grown to know and love. remains a leading cause of death. Relay for Life is more than a fundraiser; it is an opportunity for members of Champions of the Bush awards the community to come together to celebrate life, remember loved ones and fight back against cancer. Ms McLEISH (Seymour) — It was my pleasure to attend the recent Champions of the Bush awards Participants ran, walked, and rocked their way around presentation dinner for the Spirit of Entrepreneurship the track for the 24-hour event, which sees members of award, where I found myself in the company of many teams of 10 or more challenge themselves to take turns champions, including several from my electorate. The in keeping the baton moving in a relay style walk or dinner was held at the Black Spur Inn at Narbethong. run. This raises funds for Cancer Council Australia and Narbethong was chosen to support the businesses and celebrates cancer survivors. The first lap of the Cobram individuals who suffered during the 2009 Black showgrounds honoured cancer survivors and carers, Saturday bushfires. The inn was a Black Saturday and it was a time of high emotion. Many participants survivor and became one of the havens for locals. Scott had been personally touched by cancer. There are no and Dianne Kennedy of the Black Spur Inn are to be age limitations or fitness requirements, and each congratulated for the hotel’s presentation on the night participant is encouraged to raise $100 or more. The and for the wonderful meal they provided, which was a communities of Cobram and Barooga can be proud of great promotion for their business and for tourism in the their achievements. region. Planning: Moonee Ponds development A local business finalist for the Spirit of Entrepreneurship award was Kinross Farm, a family Mr MADDEN (Essendon) — I rise to express my owned and managed business that has been producing concern at the residential development proposed to be high-quality eggs for over 40 years. Philip and Jane built on the Moonee Valley racecourse land, as was Szepe’s farm utilises state-of-the-art egg grading and reported in yesterday’s Age. I believe the Minister for packaging equipment and its own dedicated fleet of Planning, Matthew Guy, and the Minister for Racing refrigerated delivery vehicles. In 1965 the farm had have been briefed on this matter and have both shown 4000 hens; today it produces 3.5 million eggs a week, considerable enthusiasm for the project to turn the which are sold nationally. The eggs are also used in the Moonee Valley racecourse into the equivalent of Hong manufacture of human influenza vaccine. Other local Kong’s Happy Valley racecourse. nominees were Kinglake Ranges Wilderness Camp and the Outdoor Education Group. My concerns are as follows. There is a lack of detail as to how the substantial traffic volumes in the local area In addition to the Spirit of Entrepreneurship award, will be managed. Any such development generates the community awards were presented. Both recipients need for the provision of complementary services in the were from my electorate — BlazeAid and the area, such as education, health, child care, transport and Marysville and District Chamber of Commerce. A open space. There are also concerns about the visual touching presentation from Christine Adams of Mystic bulk and massing, which will starkly contrast with the Mountains Tourism reminded the gathering of how far immediate low-rise residential neighbourhood. the community has come since the fires and of the road still to be travelled. It seems that the immediate local neighbourhood has had very little opportunity for input into the design development to this point. The timing of community consultation is of concern because it crosses school,

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Hell on the Way to Heaven floods, while knowing that they too could be in the unemployment queue on 1 July. Ms BARKER (Oakleigh) — Today in Queen’s Hall I had the honour of hosting the presentation of the book It is my understanding that around 150 to 200 farmers Hell on the Way to Heaven to the Victorian are vulnerable and that around half of them have debts parliamentary library. The book was written by of around $1 million each — and they are employers. Christine Foster and co-authored by Paul Kennedy. I The loss of these growers will have a significant ripple thank the Speaker for his support in ensuring this effect on the local economy, as these are our larger presentation could be made. farmers. The fallout of the loss of these farmers will take 18 months or so to occur, and in my view the lack This book was written by Christine because of the of the Rural Financial Counselling Service to assist horrific sexual abuse of two of her three daughters by them will be a crime. Father Kevin O’Donnell at the girls’ Catholic primary school. Once knowledge of these horrific crimes was The wine industry is now reporting nearly 50 per cent revealed, Christine and Anthony Foster began a battle of the wine grape crop as lost or damaged and to find out how this could have happened. What they downgrading a proportion of the remainder. It therefore found offered by the church was silence, lies, denials beggars belief that people in the Riverland region of and threats. This book is the chilling and heartbreaking South Australia, with reportedly half the losses of true account of the family’s suffering and their Sunraysia, have retained their exceptional determination to stand up for themselves against the circumstances conditions. How callous can a federal might of the Catholic Church. It is testament to the Labor government be not only to reject exceptional strength of a mother’s love and the resilience of the assistance for Victoria but also to cast in doubt the human spirit. future of the Rural Financial Counselling Service? This appears to be yet another example of Labor putting The book has been made available to the parliamentary politics before Victorian families and playing favourites library to raise awareness amongst all members of this amongst the states. Parliament of the suffering of many traumatised and silent sufferers of sexual assaults by the clergy. I am Tucge Akkok very sure that if members of this Parliament were to read this book, they would have no hesitation in Ms BEATTIE (Yuroke) — Today I recognise agreeing with me that what is required is a truly Tucge Akkok of Roxburgh Park, who is in year 8 at independent state-commissioned inquiry into the school and is now 14 years old. From birth Tucge church’s policies and actions. I ask all members to join battled severe liver failure but was given the gift of life me in ensuring that these crimes against children are no at 6 years of age, when she received a liver transplant longer subject to secrecy by the Catholic Church and thanks to an organ donor. Tucge still requires regular that all of the survivors and those who have yet to find medication for her health, yet thanks to the transplant their voice are offered true justice, care and support. I she is able to live her life with a fully functioning liver. indicate to the Foster family that my support for their efforts will continue until we can truly find justice and At any one time in Australia approximately change in an open and accountable process. I ask 1700 people are on the organ transplant waiting list, and members to read the book. as a nation we have one of the lowest rates of donation in the developed world. Tucge’s case highlights the Rural Financial Counselling Service: Mildura difference that an organ donor can make to one office person’s life and the wonderful advancements that have been made in the areas of medicine and science. Tucge Mr CRISP (Mildura) — As the Mildura electorate can now run, play and keep up with her girlfriends and struggles to recover from the February floods and the her siblings — a far cry from her situation eight years subsequent loss of around half its grape crop, it is ago. disturbing to hear that the federal Labor government will not offer any indication of the security of the I have no doubt that Tucge will go on to become all she Mildura office of the Rural Financial Counselling dreams to be, but without her organ donor this would Service beyond 30 June. Currently the Mildura not have been possible. Tucge is supported by her financial counsellors are having to show extraordinary father, who also advocates organ transplantation. I wish professionalism in dealing with many farmers, some of Tucge all the best for the wonderful life that is ahead of whom are extremely vulnerable as a result of the her, and I also wish to thank the organ donor who gave Tucge the wonderful life she has now.

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Women: Gembrook electorate 600 players and 40 teams, the Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club has experienced the demand for and the challenge Mr BATTIN (Gembrook) — Last Friday I had the of delivering enough adequate venues to play the pleasure of acknowledging the work of women in our game — a particularly tough challenge in the community. More than 50 guests gathered to celebrate Dandenongs. With the support of the previous Labor the work of nine outstanding local community members government and in partnership with Yarra Ranges Shire who volunteer their time for the benefit of others. We Council and the club, the Monbulk pitch was replaced recognised Non Blair, Wendy Dixon, Joan Clarke, with a synthetic surface and had new lights installed. Mandy Gipps, Jo Jenkinson, Judith Martin, Jeni That was implemented as stage 1 of the project. The Mathieson, Carol Porter and Viv Williams. bigger plan is to create a regional soccer hub in Monbulk. This exciting $7 million project has already All of these women make valuable and often received commitments of $2 million from the federal unrecognised contributions to their community, government and $3.7 million from the council. whether it be coordinating the Cardinia shire’s largest food bank and financial counselling service or visiting During the last election Labor committed $1.5 million distressed families and providing basic amenities for to this project. Unfortunately the coalition did not those in need. match Labor’s promise. I will be working with the club and council to secure vital state government funding for Gillian Franklin, a Berwick local, gave an inspiring talk this exciting project, and I call on the government to on her life and the challenges and positives of being a support it. woman in business. Denis Moriarty from the Our Community Group also encouraged our guests to Silvan Football Club nominate their peers for the Order of Australia. Since the honour system was introduced in 1975 many Mr MERLINO — On another matter, on Saturday, deserving Australians have been recognised, but 2 April, I attended Silvan Football Club’s first home women — who volunteer at a greater rate than men — game for 2011. It was a special day for a number of make up only a small percentage of nominations each reasons. This year the club is celebrating its 90th year year. I hope our morning tea inspired some of the of competitive footy. It is also making a fresh start in guests to nominate outstanding women in the the Eastern Football League following its switch from Gembrook electorate for Australian honours. the Yarra Valley Mountain District Football League. Member for Gembrook: community The day was also a time of sadness and reflection. Club consultation president Chris Maclagan spoke movingly of Vinny Bonanno, the 22-year-old player who died suddenly of Mr BATTIN — Recently I conducted eight cardiac arrest on the field during a practice match on listening post events in the electorate to give 6 March. Despite desperate attempts to save his life, community members the opportunity to discuss issues Vinny could not be revived. The club is determined to that relate to them. I met with people in Warburton, honour Vinny’s short life and the contribution he made Yarra Junction, Cockatoo, Emerald, Gembrook, to his community and club. Pakenham and Beaconsfield. During these events I heard many concerns, including various issues of Nunawading Basketball Centre: hall of fame neglect over the past 11 years. People in Gembrook are concerned about the lack of police throughout the entire Mr ANGUS (Forest Hill) — A few weeks ago I was electorate, about issues with the health system and privileged to attend the opening of the Nunawading about increased ambulance response times. Basketball Centre hall of fame. It was a great opportunity to recognise and honour the numerous men The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The and women who have made an outstanding member’s time has expired. contribution to the sport of basketball as players, coaches, referees, officials or volunteers. I congratulate Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club all those involved in organising this event, in particular those who had the initiative to establish this hall of Mr MERLINO (Monbulk) — On Friday, 1 April, fame. It is now a lasting tribute and provides just Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club celebrated another recognition for the many great men and women who milestone, with the completion of light towers at the have dedicated themselves over many years to the sport Monbulk facility. Soccer has enjoyed a massive of basketball in the eastern suburbs and beyond. increase in participation over recent years. With over

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Forest Hill electorate: cost of living services were being sacrificed to provide greater network capacity. This might be a predictable start by Mr ANGUS — On another matter, I note an this government, but the hardworking people of ongoing issue of great concern to the residents of Forest Melbourne’s west are already banding together to Hill — that is, the increase in cost of living expenses. I oppose this blatant attack. The government should have have been contacted many times by residents concerned a rethink and devise a fairer approach immediately. about the cost of living pressures they are experiencing, particularly the cost of household utilities. The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The time for members statements has expired. At the same time as many Victorians are struggling to balance their household budgets, all Victorians are being unfairly punished by the federal Labor HEALTH SERVICES AMENDMENT government, which has slashed Victoria’s share of GST (HEALTH INNOVATION AND REFORM funding by $2.5 billion. The Victorian Treasurer has the COUNCIL) BILL 2011 opportunity later this week to attend the commonwealth Treasury meeting and to fight on behalf of all Second reading Victorians for a fairer share of the GST allocation for Victoria. However, the state opposition has effectively Debate resumed from 24 March; motion of refused leave to the Treasurer to attend this meeting. Dr NAPTHINE (Minister for Ports). This refusal is an example of the narrow-mindedness of Ms GREEN (Yan Yean) — I rise to speak on the the state opposition, the members of which put politics Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation and before Victorian families and are supporting the federal Reform Council) Bill 2011. At the outset I reiterate government in punishing all Victorians for political concerns that I raised at the time of the second reading, ends. including a concern about the short period of time that The slashing of Victoria’s GST income will have a was allowed for debate and discussion within the direct negative impact on all Victorian households and community when this bill was introduced to the house. should be roundly condemned. This is yet another example of how this government cannot organise its legislative program in a timely Rail: Altona loop service manner so that the community can be aware of what work is before the Parliament. Mr NOONAN (Williamstown) — The Minister for Public Transport has displayed a contemptuous attitude The former Labor government had a very proud record towards Altona loop rail passengers by rubber-stamping of achievement in the area of health; however, anyone a new Metro Trains Melbourne timetable that will who has sat on the government benches would know deliver local people a second-class rail service. The that there is always work to be done in keeping up with minister and two of his upper house Liberal developments, innovation and advances in medical colleagues — both self-proclaimed fervent advocates treatment. There is always room for continuous for the west — have twice been invited to front improvement, and none of us should rest on our laurels. community meetings about the changes out in Altona but have sent apologies on both occasions. However, I think it is important to note that during its time in government Labor boosted recurrent funding The people in the west do not need apologists; we need for health services by 153 per cent. We invested a government that will not turn its back on our $7.5 billion in rebuilding our health system — the community at the first opportunity. We need a largest health capital program in the state’s history. We government that will not approve a set of rail services recruited more than 3000 doctors and almost for the Altona line that delivers no direct access to the 11 000 extra nurses. In 2009–10 more than city loop, no express trains, no direct access to the 155 300 Victorians received elective surgery — the Werribee line, reduced frequency during the peak hour highest number of operations undertaken in a single and an off-peak journey travel time to the CBD of up to year and more than 39 000 more surgeries than were 50 minutes, which may involve up to three trains. It is a performed in 1999. disgraceful and treacherous act. Of all the health bills and plans that could be put before The 500 community members who attended the most Parliament it is rather interesting that it is this rather recent community meeting on 29 March were thin bill. It seeks to implement one of the coalition’s effectively told by Metro’s CEO that Altona loop election commitments — that is, establishing the Health Innovation and Reform Council. The bill amends the

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Health Services Act 1988 by inserting a new definition four major hospital upgrades worth $557 million in the and a new part to establish the council. The bill states coalition’s first term. An upgrade to the Royal that the council’s role is ‘to provide advice to, and Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital will take more than report to, the Minister and the Secretary’ of the eight years to complete, with only $40 million provided Department of Health on the ‘delivery of quality health for the $165 million project. The coalition matched services at the request of the Minister’. The bill Labor’s $250 million commitment to the Monash stipulates that the council must consist of no more than children’s centre, but under Labor the centre would seven members, including a chairperson, and that at have been completed by 2014. We now know that the least one member must be a registered service coalition intends to invest just $60 million over the next provider — that is, a registered medical professional. four years, which is not going to deliver a hospital to The bill allows the council to form committees subject that corridor. to the approval of the minister. The coalition committed an additional $40 million to During the election the coalition committed that the the redevelopment of Box Hill Hospital, but it intends council would advise a yet to be established to invest just half of that money within the next four commission for hospital improvement on a range of years. The remaining $20 million will not be available matters, including data integrity, hospital and service until 2015, when the development is due to be quality and hospital access as well as clinical and completed. Bendigo residents will see only $21 million hospital administration best practice. It is unclear to me of additional funding for the new Bendigo hospital. The when the coalition intends to establish the commission remaining $81 million needed will not be delivered for hospital improvement. until 2015, which is just one year before the new hospital is due to open. Additionally, a litany of Although the government has committed to consult initiatives were slashed, including the expansion of with the sector on appointments to the council, it Casey Hospital and money to allow more patients to appears that to date only very limited consultation has undergo surgery. been undertaken by the government. The bill provides for the council to undertake work only requested by the Just like this bill there are still many unanswered minister. The council will not be able to dictate on what questions about the coalition’s plan to improve the matters it advises the minister and department and it health system. The second-reading speech refers to this does not require that requests made of the council by as being an indication that the government has a clear the minister, or advice provided to the minister, be objective — that it should be a leader in health reform made public. and innovation. The question which should be asked and which is certainly being asked throughout the The bill does not detail any accountability mechanisms northern suburbs is: where then is this government’s for the council. That is another broken promise or commitment to the northern academic and medical backflip by this government; it is another one to fall by research precinct? Labor committed an initial the wayside in the government’s so-called commitment $3 million to the precinct and added $11 million as an to transparency and accountability. There is also no election commitment. That matched the $14 million provision for the council to table a report in the committed by the federal government, $7.2 million Parliament so that Parliament may scrutinise its from Melbourne University, $7.2 million from activities. La Trobe University and $5 million from the Northern Hospital network itself. The failure by this government A number of issues in this bill and in respect of the to match Labor’s commitment or have any idea about government’s broader agenda for health need to be or commitment to the health needs of the north, clarified. We have seen in respect of each bill that has particularly to innovation and the academic and medical come before the house an incredible lack of detail and research precinct, just shows that they have absolutely that it poses more questions than it answers. A number no interest. of details were missing from the coalition’s health plan. More than 120 days on, Victorian patients and health Dr Napthine — We built the Northern Hospital. staff are still waiting for the Premier and the Minister for Health to provide them with details. In order to Ms GREEN — The minister at the table is assist them, it is this side of the house that had to indicating that the coalition built the Northern Hospital. release the Baillieu government’s plan for health. The It is interesting to remind the house that it had been plan reveals hundreds of millions of dollars in black Labor’s plan to build the hospital prior to the Kennett holes for major hospital upgrades and a list of government coming in. What happened when the half-baked policies. Only $186 million will be spent on Kennett government took the government benches was

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892 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 that it said it was opening a new hospital in the north, Newton-John herself was absolutely delighted that we but at the same time it closed the Preston and Northcote announced additional funding in last year’s budget for Community Hospital (PANCH) and built a much the much-needed Olivia Newton-John Cancer and smaller version of the Northern Hospital than Labor Wellness Centre. It was certainly not matched by those had planned. So poor was the emergency department opposite. that when patients were in beds their feet were poking out the cubicle doors because the Kennett government I also was very pleased to visit the centre last Thursday had scaled down the design of Labor’s planned hospital with an enormous rally of local community members, for the north and scaled down what was delivered. in particular Michelle Molinaro and the Four Cs — Chicks with Cancer who Coffee and Chat. Women I am very proud that we provided capital funding on throughout the northern suburbs who are survivors and three occasions to increase the capacity of the Northern sufferers of cancer were there because they believe that Hospital, including the commitment to the academic cancer treatment should be above politics. They were and medical research precinct. We think that people in absolutely aghast that this government had to be the north and in the western suburbs — areas which dragged kicking and screaming to support the funding seem to be foreign countries to this government — for the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness have a right to high-quality health services where they Centre, and they were pleased to put their support live. Having a research and training precinct in the together with that of Labor members in the northern north will mean that kids in the north can aspire to a suburbs who spoke up in support of this great centre. I career in health, be trained in their own community and have no doubt that this government had no plans to give back to their own community. It will mean that we support the centre before the community had spoken or will have more specialists operating in the north so that before thousands of people had signed petitions, which people in our communities do not have to travel to were tabled or will be tabled in this Parliament. The access health services. government had to be dragged kicking and screaming to support this. We welcome it coming on board, but I I had a great visit to the Austin Hospital last week. I am also hope to see it come on board for that other great glad the minister at the table, the Minister for Ports, institution in Melbourne’s north, the northern academic reminded the house of the coalition’s record in health and medical research precinct at the great Northern the last time it sat on the government benches. I Hospital. certainly hope it is not going to replicate that record this time around, but I fear it will. I remember attending a In relation to other parts of the state I know my very well-attended event in 1999 which had an auction colleagues, particularly those in the south-eastern sign out the front. It was a great event because the then suburbs, would feel it was remiss of me if I did not shadow Minister for Health, John Thwaites, mention how the coalition has scrapped a plan to successfully highlighted how the Liberal-Nationals expand the Casey Hospital. I know the member for coalition was intending to sell that great hospital — the Macedon would like me to mention the fact that the Austin Hospital. It was going to sell that hospital, just coalition has also scrapped a plan to boost emergency as it closed down PANCH. The coalition closed down care services at the Sunbury Day Hospital, which was one of the hospitals in the northern suburbs and then another initiative of Labor in relation to health. failed to open an adequate facility to serve the outer suburbs — its plan was underfunded and poorly The coalition dumped a plan to introduce a maximum designed — and then it planned to close the Austin waiting time for patients to see a specialist, and it also Hospital, which to this day delivers specialty treatment discarded a policy to reduce the incidence of ambulance to residents in the northern suburbs and across the state. ramping by half. I have many friends who are very The coalition was going to sell that great asset. I am senior paramedics, and they have been pushing a drive very pleased to say that, under our watch, that hospital for a national registration framework for paramedics. was the largest public hospital project ever undertaken That is something that also fell by the wayside on the in this country, and together with the Mercy Hospital coalition’s medical agenda. We saw the coalition dump for Women it is one of three fantastic hospitals the 60-bed expansion plan for the Ballarat base delivering health services to the north. hospital, dump the idea of maintaining after-hours emergency care at Phillip Island and truncate its plans On budget day last year I was very pleased to visit the for the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital. site of the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre with the member for Preston; the then health It is interesting that coalition members were talking minister and now opposition leader, the member for about new beds across the hospital network. We heard Mulgrave; and the then Premier, John Brumby. Olivia three different versions of that plan: first it was 600 new

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 893 beds, then it was 500 beds and then it was 800 beds. about the importance of transparency, accountability What is the community to believe? and clarity in the health system. However, what we are hearing from this minister and this government is: ‘Do Dr Napthine — On a point of order, Deputy as I say, not as I do’. If he were committed to those Speaker, the bill before the house is a fairly narrow one. sorts of things, this information would be public and the While the first speaker has a degree of latitude, the advice provided to the minister would also be made member for Yan Yean has exceeded that latitude on public. The bill itself would have accountability more than one occasion. She has been given a fair mechanisms for the council, and there would be a degree of freedom, and I now ask you to bring her back provision for the council to table annual reports in this to the bill before the house. place.

Ms GREEN — On the point of order, Deputy With those comments I conclude by reiterating that the Speaker, I remind the minister at the table, the Minister opposition will not be opposing this bill. However, we for Ports, that he began his second-reading speech on think there is much more this government could do. It is this bill by saying: yet to deliver a cogent health plan to the Victorian community that is well costed, balanced across the state The Baillieu government is committed to undoing the damage done to the Victorian health system under Labor over the last and scheduled to be delivered in this term — not in 11 years. 8 years or 12 years. With a growing state, an ageing population and increasing complexity every day in the Since he began his speech in that way, I think it is only delivery of health services, the least this government fair that opposition members and I, as lead speaker, could do is offer that plan and deliver it to the Victorian should be able to canvass a wide range of matters, just community with a decent amount of funding. It should as he did in his second-reading speech. cost its election commitments properly and not mislead the community with faux concern for the health budget The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The lead and those who need to use the public hospital system. I speaker is given a lot of latitude on many bills, but I ask look forward to hearing the rest of the debate. the member for Yan Yean to bring her comments back to the bill if she can. Mr WAKELING (Ferntree Gully) — It gives me pleasure to rise to contribute to the debate on the Health Ms GREEN — As I said at the outset, Labor will Services Amendment (Health Innovation and Reform not be opposing this bill. However, there are many Council) Bill 2011. I stand on this side of the house other parts of the government’s health plan that the proud to support this bill, which is another example of Victorian community would have liked to have seen the Baillieu coalition government delivering on its before this bill came into the Parliament, and there are election commitments. This was a policy the coalition also many gaps in the bill. There is a lack of clarity took to the election, and we proudly stand here in this about the timing of the establishment of the house supporting this piece of legislation to ensure that commission for hospital improvement, which this it becomes an important part of our health framework. Health Innovation and Reform Council is supposed to be advising. What work will the council have to do It was interesting to hear the convoluted contribution of when no commission has been established? the member for Yan Yean. If ever one needed to be reminded of why those opposite were voted out of The opposition also has concerns about the paucity of government by the Victorian people last November, consultation with the sector about this council; it harks one only need hear the contribution of the member for back to the failure of this government to manage its Yan Yean. We heard a tirade; here again a member of legislative program, as does the timing of the the opposition still thinks she is in government. The introduction of this bill. The government cannot get its opposition has actually forgotten that the Victorian act together. The opposition is also concerned that the community sent it a message that after 11 years of council will only be able to undertake work requested failing to deliver for Victorians enough was enough. It by the minister; it will not be able to undertake work on sent the former government packing. Health is one of its own initiative and it will not be able to dictate what the key portfolios where the former government failed the minister and the department can move forward on. Victorians badly. The bill does not provide for requests made to the The bill before the house seeks to establish a Health council by the minister to be made public, and that is of Innovation and Reform Council. Once it is established concern. We heard long and often from the Minister for it will be a fantastic organisation that will help to Health when he was on the other side of the chamber improve the public health system in the state of

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Victoria. It will advise the minister and the Secretary of former government’s own figures demonstrate that the Department of Health on a range of matters relating across the state it failed five. After 11 years of being in to the effective and efficient delivery of quality health control of the health system the former government services, and this state is sorely in need of failed five of the nine benchmarks it had established. improvements in the quality of health services. For The Leader of the Opposition was the man in charge example, the council will be able to provide advice to when Labor lost office. The man in charge of the health the minister on ways in which the government can system is now the person who is supposedly running enhance the accuracy of data provided by the public the rabble known as the opposition. health sector and on further improving the quality of care provided by the sector. It will also provide advice The former government failed five of the nine on how to improve the provision of clinical and benchmarks. What does that actually mean for management services to ensure that Victorians receive Victorians? It means that approximately the best possible health care. 267 000 patients, 267 000 Victorians, were not admitted to a bed within 8 hours or were not discharged The bill seeks to amend the Health Services Act 1988. within 4 hours from emergency departments. After It is appropriate that this council be established under 11 years of government 267 000 Victorians were that act, given that the act regulates the provision of suffering. Approximately 125 000 patients who were health services in the state of Victoria and its focus is category 1, 2 or 3 did not receive emergency on the quality of care in the public health sector. The department care within the clinically appropriate time council will be made up of seven appointed members frames. who will be highly respected leaders in health planning and policy development. At least one member must be I ask that anyone opposite put their hand up and say a senior clinician, and this person will be able to that that is a great record to support. I ask the member provide key advice to the minister through the council. for Yan Yean to stand up in this house and say she is proud of the record and legacy of the Brumby We are very proud to see policies like this become law, government. I want her to stand up in this house and because we went to the people of Victoria and said, say to Victorians, say to one of those 267 000 patients, ‘We need to do a lot more in health’. The only point on ‘I’m proud of the fact that my government failed you which I agree with the member for Yan Yean’s rambled when you needed help in our emergency departments’. contribution is that much more is needed to be done by this government with respect to health. Truer words Approximately 23 000 patients waited too long for were never spoken. So much is needed to unravel the elective surgery, according to official lists. Those mess of 11 years of a tired, arrogant Labor government opposite can sit over there and whinge and whine as that put spin and rhetoric before the needs of much as they like, but when you look at health you are Victorians, that was more interested in feathering the talking about people. You are talking about Victorians, nests of its friends and was not concerned with and you are talking about vulnerable people who need delivering health, education and law and order services help and assistance when they attend a hospital for the benefit of Victorians. Members need not take department. As the member for Yan Yean so rightly the coalition’s word for it, because the people of pointed out in her contribution, there is so much more Victoria made that decision last November. The that this government is going to have to do to unravel Victorian community sent a clear message to the Labor the mess after 11 years of neglect. Party. Again we have heard today that the Labor Party still does not get it. Acting Speaker, you only need to look at the hospitals to which members opposite were referring. One of When we talk about the mess that was left behind by those was Box Hill Hospital. It is pleasing to see the the former government, we need only look at its own member for Burwood in the house, because we all figures to see how bad health services had become after remember the former member for Burwood who used 11 years. We need only look at the Your Hospitals to whine and carp about the way in which his report, which statistically examined the benchmarking government was looking after the people of Box Hill in of hospitals in this state between July 2009 and June relation to the Box Hill Hospital; all of us remember the 2010. Members should not take the coalition’s word for tirade. Under the government of which he was a key this; they should take it from the former government’s member for 11 years what did he deliver for his own statistics. community? He delivered a hospital that failed six of the nine benchmarks that his government put in Of the nine benchmarks that the former government place — six of the nine benchmarks that were set up by established for the operation of health services the his government. The former government only passed

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 895 three of nine benchmarks. I would like to see those administration, to improve health services and practices opposite stand up and say that the people of Box Hill to improve morbidity and mortality in our community. I who were serviced by that hospital were well served by would hope the new board would focus particularly on the former government. preventable illness, which has been such an increasing factor — — As at June 2010 there were 2398 patients on elective surgery waiting lists in the area served by Eastern Dr Napthine — I hope they’re not improving Health, so that is 2398 Victorians who were suffering mortality. under the former government in that area. Twenty-four per cent of category 2 urgent patients were not treated Mr SCOTT — Improving mortality rates. I note the within the clinically appropriate time of 10 minutes. interjection, but improving mortality means lowering it, The list just goes on and on. Those opposite do not I would hope, unless you happen to believe in eugenics, want to talk about statistics. They were never interested which I do not. in talking about people. They were always interested in rhetoric and spin and attacking everybody except I return to the bill. I noted the inflammatory and rather themselves. The one group of people they forgot, the entertaining contribution from the member for Ferntree only people they forgot, were the patients. Gully, who is blessed with an ability for self-reflection which I would say is more limited than the abilities of Ms Green interjected. the persons who have contributed to the development of health services over the generations. I note that in the Mr WAKELING — The member for Yan Yean second-reading speech the minister made reference to can sit there and yell at us, but you know what? I do not ‘consideration of practices, methods and technology’ care, because at the end of the day the people who do and ‘incremental and transformational change to our care are the Victorians the opposition forgot. Without health system’. providing gratuitous advice to the opposition, I suggest that what the opposition should be doing is going out to One particular aspect of technology that perhaps the Victorians and saying, ‘Do you know what? After reform council could examine is the track changes in 11 years we actually got it wrong. We were sent a Microsoft Word, because it is important when giving message and we actually got the message that we health policies to the community to be open about your messed up. After 11 years you have got a health system own processes. In fact the scientific process which I in crisis’. Unless those opposite start doing that we are was referring to is one that is based on openness and going to see them sitting on the opposition benches for accountability. many years to come. I note that the policy of the government seems to have Mr SCOTT (Preston) — It gives me great pleasure changed radically since it was in opposition. Perhaps to rise to speak on the Health Services Amendment the reform council could examine changes in policy and (Health Innovation and Reform Council) Bill 2011. As the methodology used to develop policy, because the lead speaker for the opposition indicated, the within three hours on one day and for the rest of the opposition is not opposing this bill. As someone who election campaign the coalition slashed its health plan, has served on a community health centre board, I would dumping proposed cuts to waiting lists by over like to place on the record the great respect I have for 20 000 over the next two years — I note, quite all health practitioners who add to the great wealth of ironically, that this was referred to by the member for knowledge that builds over time. In fact the decrease in Ferntree Gully — wearing down the $100 million list mortality and morbidity that has been concurrent with overall, changing the maximum waiting times for the advances in health practices across our society and outpatient services within its policy and dropping its across the Western world has been one of the great policy of 26 weeks for 90 per cent of outpatient stories of the last couple of hundred years and has appointments. served not only this community but all communities well. So I would like to place on the record my There were a number of cases where the government appreciation to all persons involved in that. promised capital works projects in its policies but then sneakily bumped off payment until after the next The Minister for Ports, who is at the table, is obviously election. The government had a number of policies for an animal doctor by practice, but he would understand which it planned to make investments in capital the sort of scientific process that has been undertaken expenditure, but only a small proportion of the by many dedicated individuals, not just clinicians but investments — in fact only $186 million out of a people working in health management and

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$557 million coalition capital works program — were report to Parliament — I think that would be a useful to be spent during this term. way of providing scrutiny — and the fact that the council itself acts on the initiative of the minister, which I have spoken previously of the government’s dealings I think would leave the council hamstrung. The council with the accountancy firm Yates Partners — that is, should be free to pursue health reform and innovation sneaking off after a long lunch to do things. That might in any manner it sees fit. Often ministers have particular seem okay, but I think that sort of approach to capital hobbyhorses or there are particular lines of inquiry that works programs could be something that the reform they would not want followed because it may highlight council could examine. It could examine whether it is shortcomings in their administration. An independent appropriate for a political party to promise funding body, free of ministerial control, may be able to provide during an election but then, once it attains government, greater assistance to the community by highlighting to promise the majority of the delivery of that capital areas where there needs to be further improvement in works program in its next term. It would be appropriate service delivery. There is a classic conflict of interest for the council to examine how health policy is between the role of the minister and the role of the developed and how it is put before the people in a executive government in seeking to maintain an democratic process, because being honest about health independent body to provide advice on best practice policy is important and being essentially within the health sector. It would be a useful straightforward with people is very important. improvement if the council was able to undertake its own work without a requirement for direction from the It is the height of spin for a political party to promise a minister. series of capital works projects during an election but then to indicate in a document that it slips to the media, As has previously been stated the opposition does not which is outside of public scrutiny, that it will provide oppose this bill, and again I would like to reiterate my the funding for those projects in its next term of great respect for all of those health professionals, government. That would be an excellent thing for the whether they be practitioners or others within the health reform council to examine. It would allow the way in sector, who have contributed so much by lowering the which health policy is planned to be examined and the rates of morbidity and mortality in our community and way in which it is executed to be measured against improving the quality of life for so many. those particular issues. Mr CRISP (Mildura) — I rise to make a I take it that the Acting Speaker is suggesting that I contribution to the debate on the Health Services speak about some of the other clauses in this bill. Amendment (Health Innovation and Reform Council) Bill 2011. The purpose of the bill is to amend the The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! Health Services Act 1988 to establish the Health Exactly. Innovation and Reform Council. As the minister at the Dr Napthine — Any of the clauses in the bill would table, the Minister for Ports, made clear in his be an improvement on where you are now! second-reading speech, this bill is quite clearly about getting health back on track. As a reforming group the Mr SCOTT — I return to the bill. As has been Health Innovation and Reform Council will restore stated, the Health Innovation and Reform Council Victoria as a leader in health services. It will also allow would consist of not more than seven members for the consideration of practices, new methods of appointed by the minister. I welcome the provision that treating people, technology and changes to the system. at least one member of the council be a registered health provider within the meaning of the Health The council will have a clear focus on improving the Services (Conciliation and Review) Act 1987, which quality and safety of our health system, and it will has been mentioned by previous speakers. I also note move patient health outcomes to the forefront of how that according to the provisions of the bill a committee we as a community think about health system may, subject to the approval of the minister, be management. It will also ensure that there is a clear appointed by the council for the purposes of carrying focus on evidence-based medicine in decision making out any of the functions of the council. This committee and health planning. I think that sums up what the would consist of any members of the council health system should be about. These sorts of things are determined by the council and any other persons very much the focus of health professionals. When you determined by the council. move in those circles and talk to those people every day, that is what they are looking at — better outcomes I raise a number of concerns about the bill, particularly for patients who are in the system. the fact that there is no requirement for the council to

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It can be difficult when there is an outcome that we do unfortunately. Each case review has to be a positive not desire, and that may be the time to critically review learning experience, and the people involved have to be our systems. In doing so we also need to review what is truly professional. The membership of this council will done not just from a state perspective but also at a wider be important, and the legislation covers that well. level. We do need to do things better. We need to learn from others. We certainly need to keep track of modern However, there is an issue going forward. We have technology. Modern technology is something that focused on it a lot. The $2.5 billion cut to Victoria’s offers so much for us going forward in health, and we budget over the next few years will inhibit the way we are going to need professionals to advise and lead us in can invest for the future. It is vital that the federal this area. government understands what this cut will do. If you take some of the money out of the health system and We all know that health funding in the future will be inhibit some of the planning now, the consequences very difficult. There has been a lot of debate about this will flow on for decades. It is the old stich in time saves over the last two years or so. As baby boomers like nine scenario. Being able to afford health services will myself grow older the demand on the health system is be important moving forward, and Victoria’s budget going to be enormous. Everybody now agrees that we will have to meet that challenge, but it has been given a cannot continue to do things the way we currently do fairly solid kick in the guts by Canberra. That has made them. I have seen some predictions that indicate that by the job of the members of this council just that bit more the time baby boomers are at the peak of the cycle the difficult as we move forward. health budget will be at a level equal to or greater than that of the state budget. Clearly we cannot go on as we We all know that health technology is the most are; we in this chamber know that. What we need is a expensive of all technologies. All of us who have been body that can take on the challenge and lead us through involved in this area know that if you have a year where it. the inflation figure in health services is only double the consumer price index, you have done well. We are in Technology has a lot to offer. We are starting to move the situation of having a diminishing budget while we in those areas now, with some remote monitoring of are trying to afford the development and patients using technology. Also in our more isolated implementation of these technologies. I have great areas remote diagnosis is becoming more and more a expectations for this council going forward, because we feature of everyday life. Anyone who has had an know the predicted future is one we cannot afford. orthopaedic injury in the country is likely to have been Those people who are appointed to this board will have the subject of remote radiology. That involves a an important role in Victoria’s future. radiographer taking a look at what the doctor thinks is busted. The image is digitised and then sent off to a I am happy to support this bill. It is a way forward for radiographer somewhere. In Mildura it might be sent to Victoria out of a dilemma that would otherwise lead to someone outside Australia. Even nurses have been a disaster. Similarly I am concerned that our upskilled to have remote radiographer capacity in some commonwealth friends seem intent on having as many remote areas where just a while ago radiographers were dilemmas turning into disasters in Victoria as they can. seen to be a scarce commodity. The fact that the commonwealth is going down that path is something about which I feel sad and annoyed. There is a lot to be done. It is going to be a difficult It is an excellent bill. Let us get on with it and assure process. Placing all of our faith in the future of the integrity of our health future for Victorians. technology is going to require some good people to guide us. This is where we come to the membership of Ms HUTCHINS (Keilor) — I rise to support the the council, which is set out in proposed section 134R. Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation and We have canvassed widely to get the best people we Reform Council) Bill 2011. Victorian families deserve can find to take us forward and to offer us advice on to have access to the best health services, regardless of those long-distance, big-picture health issues that we where they live. The Bracks and Brumby governments need to address. Meanwhile we cannot forget the boosted recurrent funding for our health services by day-to-day issues in relation to improving those 153 per cent, as mentioned by our lead speaker earlier. outcomes. When reviewing each case in a hospital or a health service we need to ask what was good, what was Whilst we have a good health system, we know we can bad and what we could have done better. That is very make it better. Unlike one of the previous speakers, the much part of the professional life of health member for Ferntree Gully, I refuse to talk down our professionals in the country, because things do not health system in Victoria. When you compare our always turn out the way you want them to, health system to those of other states and countries, you

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898 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 see that our health system is a good one, but it needs to Over 30 babies are born every day in the west. Western be built upon as our population grows. Health is the largest health provider to Victoria’s fastest growing community. The two local government areas The purpose of this bill is to establish the Health within the catchment are experiencing the highest Innovation and Reform Council. The function of the growth rates among all municipalities in Australia and council is to advise and report to the Minister for Health are in the top 10 fastest growing Australian and the Secretary of the Department of Health on the municipalities by population volume. The Western effective and efficient delivery of quality health Health catchment population will climb to more than services. This is a policy that was taken to the election 1 million within the next 15 years, with an increase of by the Baillieu government together with a 350 000 people, and the proportion of the population commitment that the council would advise a aged over 70 will increase by 120 per cent during the commission for hospital improvement on a range of same 15-year period, triggering a major increase in issues, including data integrity, hospital and service demand for hospital services. The current government quality and hospital access, as well as clinical and needs to commit more to the upgrade of the Sunshine hospital administration — all extremely important Hospital, and I call upon the new commission and the initiatives that require monitoring to further improve new council that will be formed under this legislation to our state health system. But it is unclear how and when make sure that they take up those challenges out in the the Baillieu government intends to establish the west. commission for hospital improvement. According to the policy the current government took to the election We have seen some of the current government’s plans the commission will cover a whole range of initiatives, for health, not through what it has announced but including establishing an independent source of through some leaked documents or some policy that information for all stakeholders, which I hope will was left behind. Some of the key highlights of the extend to members of the public. The commission will coalition’s secret health plans include $180 million to also act as a watchdog to ensure the integrity of be spent on four major hospital upgrades when in fact performance data. I hope the current government stays the net amount needed is more like $557 million. true to these initiatives; only time will tell once the commission is formed. In addition, the new In terms of plans or any leaked plans about health in the commission will report on mechanisms that allow data west, there seems to be silence on those issues and I ask to be collected accurately and reliably. where the rest of the health plan is. Hopefully the new commission for hospital improvement and the new They are extremely important issues in the western Health Innovation and Reform Council may be able to suburbs, where we have huge population growth. While uncover some of the planning required by the Minister we have a good system in the Western Health region, for Health for expenditure on health in the west. due to health demands and the growth in population — the western suburbs being the fastest growing region in Certainly the facilities that are required in the west are a Australia — Western Health needs more resources. I key requirement as a result of the population growth call upon the commission and the newly formed taking place. The Health Innovation and Reform council when it is established under this legislation and Council needs to be prepared if the government does is up and running to take direction from the minister in not take any action or commit expenditure, particularly terms of the resources needed in our western suburbs. for Sunshine Hospital, for the fact that there will be consequences of the failure of commitments. I hope the Certainly during the Bracks and Brumby years in data research the council will undertake will include government we prioritised the value of making sure that analysis of the lack of capacity to provide adequate every Victorian had access to high-quality health care health services to the growing population of when they needed it. That included our investments in Melbourne’s west. Western Health, particularly the Sunshine Hospital redevelopment. At the time of the election we made a If there is no investment and nothing is improved, there commitment to provide new inpatient buildings with will be a lack of capacity to meet emergency care ambulance facilities, a new special care nursery and demands due to competing demands for inpatient clinical support services. I encourage the minister and services, high levels of patients leaving emergency the new council to take up those commitments made by departments at Western Health without being seen by a the previous Labor government to deliver services for doctor and the possibility of escalating blow-outs in the outer western suburbs and to deal with the growth surgical waiting lists. Thousands more western suburbs in population that is estimated for that region. patients will need to seek treatment at other hospitals

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 899 many kilometres away if our western suburbs hospitals quality and safety of our health system. It may be are not appropriately funded in the future. convened to undertake a range of research or it might be to try to identify and evaluate best practice. More I support the establishment of the Health Innovation and more we see organisations, including health and Reform Council and the policy concerning the organisations, move towards identifying, evaluating and commission. My request is for the council to be understanding what best practice is about. independent, for its members to be independent and for it to take seriously the challenges of growth in the west. The council will also draw on the theme of I commend the bill to the house. evidence-based research. It is particularly important when decisions about health care are made that they are Ms McLEISH (Seymour) — I rise also to support the right decisions. ‘Sounds like a good idea’ is not the Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation good enough. ‘We thought it might work, but gee, we and Reform Council) Bill 2011. This bill amends the were proven wrong’ is not good enough. The Health Services Act, the key act for the regulation of government wants to use evidence-based data and provision of health services in this state, to establish the empirical research that will show that the decisions Health Innovation and Reform Council. The bill being made are the right decisions. provides that the council will focus on further improving the quality of care provided through the A number of years ago I was involved in putting public health sector. This is really important because together guidelines for managing people with back people who are ill need to be treated in a timely manner injuries. Despite the fact that it was some 13 years ago, and to know they will receive quality treatment and get evidence-based research and empirical research was the best treatment in Victoria. critically important to confirm that what was being proposed as methods of treatment for those people was As I said, the purpose of the bill is to establish the something that would work and not just a fad or the Health Innovation and Reform Council. Prior to the latest apparatus or technology being considered for use. election, and even since then, it was no secret that there We need to improve public health. We can enhance the is room to improve the public health system, and we are accuracy of data through these provisions and improve on our way to doing that. It is important that these the overall quality of health services. In addition the improvements are made now, because we cannot lag provision of clinical and management services can also behind as the population increases in both Melbourne be looked at. and regional Victoria. We need to be on top of the demands now and not wait until the future, when it will Why is this important? After 11 years of a Labor be too late. government, improvements could be made in the area of health services. The former government’s own Prior to the election the coalition made a number of information reveals that hospitals failed five of nine commitments in the area of health services. The benchmarks, as was mentioned earlier by the member coalition government aims to change the way health for Ferntree Gully. Evidence shows us that in excess of services are delivered in Victoria. This bill is the start 260 000 patients were not admitted to a bed within for us, as a government, to deliver on our health 8 hours or discharged within 4 hours. Approximately commitments. By convening the Health Innovation and 125 000 people did not receive emergency department Reform Council, an avenue for specific advice is care within the clinically appropriate time frame. Over opened. What we really want for people who are ill is 20 000 people waited too long for elective surgery on effective and efficient delivery of quality health official lists — and they are only the lists we know services. The establishment of this council will allow about. the minister to make requests of it with the intent to deliver effective and efficient health outcomes. Those of us who have worked in the health industry know very well about the unofficial lists. You need At the request of the minister the Health Innovation and only speak to people who have worked in a hospital to Reform Council will be able to provide advice and hear them say, ‘There is the figure and then there is the report to both the Minister for Health and the secretary real figure’. The former government was worried about of the department. The council will be convened by the the spin; we are worried about the patients. The minister and requests of it will be made by the minister. previous speaker mentioned the growing population. It will not be a council that meets for the sake of Victoria’s population is not only a growing one but also meeting. There will be reasons for the council to an ageing one, and the number of people who need function and a very clear focus on what those reasons treatment will also grow. It is important that we have a will include, because it is all about improving the

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900 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 handle on this growth before it occurs so we are in a The second point I proudly put on the record relates to better position to deal with it. the legacy of our time in government in relation to health. We are very proud of that legacy, because the I want to also comment on the composition of the Labor government invested record funding, and we council. It will have seven members, which is a good treated a record number of patients. We are absolutely number. You will see that in following best practice proud of the fact that we boosted recurrent funding for many boards are moving to this number as well. It is our health services by 153 per cent. We invested not such a large number of people as to be $7.5 billion in rebuilding our health system — the cumbersome, but it is large enough to encourage largest health capital program in the state’s history. We divergent thinking and different ideas and people. The recruited more than 3500 doctors and almost council’s members themselves will be appointed by the 11 000 extra nurses. In 2009–10 alone more than minister. Highly respected professionals — people 155 300 Victorians received elective surgery, which is credible in their field who have relevant experience — the highest number of operations undertaken in a single will be appointed. There will be a senior clinician. year and is over 39 000 more surgeries than there were There is also the expectation that the council will be in 1999. broad enough in its composition to include senior health service managers and academics. It would be remiss of me not to mention — and of course my colleague the member for Keilor referred to Senior health service managers could be really this — the history of Labor in the western suburbs. I important in terms of looking at the levels of service remember that when Labor came into office we had within the public health system. Academics may be gynaecologists and psychiatrists going into Sunshine crucial in generating some of the more innovative Hospital in one of the areas most in need. We did material and helping with some of the evidence-based similar things in other areas of health, whether it was research. The council will be able to work in diabetes, cardiovascular health, respiratory health, partnership with national bodies and professional obesity or any of the other areas that are so fundamental associations as well. It is important as Victoria to the community. Why am I putting this on the record? re-establishes itself on the map of good governance and I am putting it on the record because government leadership that we establish ourselves in the area of members referred to the track record of the Labor health and that other states and countries can look at us government, and it is incumbent on me and warranted and learn from us. to put on the record that it was Labor that brought about the Sunshine Hospital. I am sure government members What is important about this council relates to the will not mind me saying — — words ‘health innovation’, which refer to new measures and ideas and indicate that we can lead the way and Honourable members interjecting. carry out reform. Reform is about the changes we need to make to bring about a better health system for all. I The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! commend this bill to the house. It would be helpful if the member could return to the bill. Mr LANGUILLER (Derrimut) — It gives me pleasure to rise tonight in support of the Health Services Mr LANGUILLER — I am sure members will not Amendment (Health Innovation and Reform Council) endeavour to silence me when I say that Labor built Bill 2011, whose purpose is to amend the Health Sunshine Hospital and turned it into a generalist Services Act 1988 to establish the Health Innovation hospital, that Labor delivered an emergency department and Reform Council. As my colleagues on this side and and that Labor set up the partnerships. the shadow minister at the table have stated, the opposition will be supporting this bill. An important The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! point I wish to put on the record at the outset is how The member for Derrimut will return to the bill. proud we are of all health workers and health professionals; they provide a wonderful job for the Mr LANGUILLER — Members of the community. They do their utmost — the best they can. government have referred to our track record. I see That includes the staff of the departments relevant to nothing wrong with me, as the elected member for this bill. I say, ‘Well done!’. Sometimes one wonders Derrimut, being able to put on record what members of about an issue related to them; if governments were to the government questioned. be more supportive and to commit more funds I am The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! very confident these workers could do even better. This has been a wide-ranging debate, which I have allowed. However, we have now heard 4 minutes of a

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10-minute speech on the former government’s record, Parliament? There is also the question of the and I think it would be helpful if the member returned independence of the body. I accept that the council will to the bill. have to provide advice to the minister upon request and that the minister will refer matters to the council, but it Mr LANGUILLER — In relation to the bill it is is equally important that the council be able to important to record that it seeks to implement one of the undertake some initiatives independently and look into coalition’s election commitments, the establishment of issues, because if one were to be cynical about this, one a Health Innovation and Reform Council. The bill could advance the proposition that the minister will be amends the Health Services Act 1988 by inserting a very narrow in terms of the brief he gives to the new definition and a new part to establish the council. council. The bill allows the council to form a committee, subject to the approval of the minister. At the election the Nevertheless, this bill is a good step. The opposition coalition’s commitment stated that the council would hopes it will provide for accountability, transparency advise a yet to be established commission for hospital and openness, and I sincerely hope the minister improvement on a range of matters including data responds to what I regard as important questions that integrity, hospital and service quality, hospital access we have raised on behalf of the people we represent — and best practice in clinical and hospital administration. a very large part of the Victorian electorate. I remain of the view that the former government had an It is unclear, and I am sure the minister will clarify this extraordinary track record, one I am proud of. in due course, when the coalition intends to establish a commission for hospital improvement. What we are Debate adjourned on motion of doing now precedes the commission that is to be Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Mental Health). established and which the coalition has said will be independent. While the government has committed to Debate adjourned until later this day. consultation, it is important that the minister explain the degree of consultation that has taken place. LIQUOR CONTROL REFORM The bill provides for the council to only undertake work AMENDMENT BILL 2011 requested by the minister — in other words, as I understand it, the council will not be able to undertake Second reading initiatives of its own. The bill states that it is only upon Debate resumed from 24 March; motion of the referral of the minister that the council can provide Mr O’BRIEN (Minister for Consumer Affairs). information and advice. I ask: will the council be able to undertake its own initiatives? It was the coalition, Ms D’AMBROSIO (Mill Park) — I rise to speak now the government, which said the two bodies — and on the Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011. as I understand it they are separate bodies — will be Alcohol consumption is one of the biggest social issues independent. Therefore I ask: will they be able to facing Victoria’s young people. On this side of the undertake those initiatives? house we are very keen now, as we were when we were in government, to support effective ways of reducing The bill does not require that requests made of the the harmful effects of alcohol consumption on young council by the minister be made public. In other words, people. Alcohol is not healthy for a developing body no reports or advice to the minister will be required to and mind, and it is important that all adults play a role be made public, and nor will there be any other in educating young people about the harm caused by accountability mechanisms applied to the council. alcohol consumption. There is no provision for the council to table a report in Parliament, but I would have thought there would be The Labor Party is committed to ensuring that alcohol such a provision in light of discussions and in light of is consumed responsibly, especially among young the coalition’s promises and policies — and I could people. When consumed in moderation alcohol is a quote them. I am mindful of the Health Innovation and normal part of adult life. However, the abuse of alcohol Reform Council provision, but the government said in can ruin lives, damage communities and disrupt relation to the commission for hospital improvement families, and we can all tell stories about this, if not that it would be an independent source of information about our own families then certainly about our for all stakeholders. friendship groups or colleagues. We are seeing significant increases in the level of alcohol abuse, These are pertinent questions. Will reports be made where people are drinking to become very drunk, public? Will reports be made available to the particularly among 14 to 29-year-olds. Educating our

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902 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 young people about making decisions about drinking the act to impose further restrictions on the supply of alcohol is the responsibility of the whole community. liquor to minors. The changes will commence on proclamation or on 1 February 2012. The level of alcohol-related harm in our community is not acceptable, and we need to act to educate our Section 119 of the Liquor Control Reform Act currently children, change the culture and keep the community provides a range of offences that attract 60 penalty units safe. In government we put in place many solid and addresses exemptions around the supply of alcohol programs and initiatives to do just that. We introduced to minors. Currently alcohol may supplied to minors in Victoria’s Alcohol Action Plan 2008–2013 — certain circumstances, such as with a meal in the Restoring the Balance, a $37 million long-term strategy company of parents at licensed premises or in a for addressing alcohol-related harm. It is an action plan residence. The bill seeks to amend section 119(5)(e) of that has a five-year life span, and we certainly hope it is the act, which provides exemptions to offences. It is continued by the current government. proposed that offences relating to the supply of liquor to a minor will not apply under subsection (e) to the The alcohol action plan included 35 actions in the areas supply of liquor in a residence to a person under the age of health, community education, liquor licensing and of 18 years by a parent, guardian or spouse of the enhanced enforcement, and significant additional work person if the spouse is of or over the age of 18 years, or was undertaken to address alcohol-related harm. More someone who is authorised by a parent, guardian or effective alcohol and drug education was provided in spouse of the person, if the spouse is of or over the age Victoria’s schools, including the development of of 18 years, to supply liquor to the person. The effect of comprehensive alcohol curriculum materials for year 8 this amendment is that parents may provide their own and 9 students. We also introduced a number of children with alcohol, or, if the parents provide consent, campaigns to educate the community about the another adult may do so. consequences of making the wrong choices about alcohol and violence, including a program entitled We know that the New South Wales, Queensland and ‘Will you handle your alcohol or will alcohol handle Tasmanian jurisdictions have already adopted you?’. This program ran two years ago. We also had the secondary supply legislation. However, I must say that Your Move-Championship Moves campaign as part of we have been unable to ascertain any direct evidence the Respect strategy. This is an indication that not only from those jurisdictions as to the effectiveness of these do you need a strong and coherent program of policies, laws in reducing harm to young people — and that is communication and campaigning to alter community the point we all sign up to. We all sign up to the desire behaviour about what is acceptable in terms of alcohol to have effective ways of reducing harmful effects on consumption but you also you need to ensure that it is a young people as a result of alcohol consumption. It is dynamic program that runs year in, year out. worth noting that the Queensland legislation goes further than this bill by introducing a second offence of As I said, a lot of these programs targeted young irresponsible supply, which occurs when an adult, people. There was one called ‘Step Back. Think.’, whether that be the parent or another person, who which aimed to alter the way teenagers think about otherwise legally supplies a minor with alcohol, does so violence, and a lot of that is alcohol related. We dealt in a manner that is not responsible. This bill, however, with a lot of those issues, but I will not go through more does not specify that the supply of liquor to minors because we would be here for much longer than the must be in a responsible manner. 30 minutes I have been allotted. This is just to give members a sense of the seriousness with which the The government has announced that this legislation will opposition considers this issue and deals with it. be supported by a comprehensive information and education campaign as it will affect every family and Currently the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 does every household across Victoria. That is something we not regulate how people provide alcohol to friends and need to be well aware of. It is fundamentally imperative family in their own homes. There is no specific ban in that members of the community, in particular parents Victoria on adults providing alcohol to minors inside a and children, understand their responsibilities. For that private home if the children are not their own. That is reason it is vitally important that the government be the nub of the bill before us. What is proposed in this serious about how it communicates and programs its bill under the so-called secondary supply laws is that an strategies to deal with the harmful effects of alcohol. It adult may not supply alcohol to a young person at a is not just a matter of using legislative tools. Many private place unless the adult is a parent or guardian or families from culturally diverse backgrounds allow has the specific permission of the parent or guardian of their young people to consume small amounts of that young person. The purpose of this bill is to amend alcohol at the dinner table. I, for one, was party to such

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 903 a practice in my family. How will the government responding to other call-outs whilst they are involved in ensure that its communications strategy reaches these enforcing this law? That is an important point, and I families, for example, so that there are no unintended wonder whether the government has thought through consequences of this new law. the perhaps unintended consequences of this impost on police resourcing, especially at night, when many I have spoken about the bill with several key parties tend to be held. stakeholders, including the Youth Substance Abuse Service, the Australian Drug Foundation, the Youth Under the principal act ‘supply’ is defined to include Research Centre, the Police Association Victoria and of selling, offering or exposing for sale, exchanging, course the Leigh Clark Foundation. Most of those disposing of and giving away. This sets the parameters organisations have been on record as supporting the of the notion of what it is to supply alcohol. If a minor objectives of the bill. It is important though to state for were to remove alcohol from their parents’ house, this the record that some of those organisations have would not be an offence as the parent had not supplied expressed the view that the law could be difficult to the alcohol. It is good that this has been confirmed. enforce. With that in mind I wish to raise some concerns about the enforceability of the legislation in Despite the hype around this bill, the matter of a minor the hope the minister can provide explanations to taking alcohol to a private residence is not covered by address these concerns. This would be a very important the bill. The adult at the house does not need to seek thing to do given the difficulties we have encountered permission from another adult for that alcohol to be in finding evidence from other jurisdictions that have consumed, as they are not the ones supplying it. There such measures in place about the efficacy of the will still be nothing illegal about the minor drinking legislative tool that has been provided in those alcohol at the residence because the bill is all about jurisdictions. supply by the adult at the residence. We need to be clear — and the government needs to be clear in its As an example I raise the situation where an explanations to the community — about what the 18th birthday party is held at a home and a neighbour expectations and legal responsibilities are for parents, calls the police and complains about the noise, as a lot guardians or indeed other adults in their own homes of neighbours do. The police visit the home at which regarding the consumption of alcohol by minors on the party is being held with the intention of dealing with their premises. What the bill does is stop the adult of the noise. Whilst there the police note that some of the the house supplying alcohol to a minor guest without guests consuming alcohol may be under the age of 18. the consent of their parent, guardian or spouse. This is What will the police be required or expected to do where the offence is created. We need to be absolutely under this law? clear about that.

It seems that the police would need to commence a The bill creates a situation where an adult cannot lengthy process to determine the ages of potentially all supply alcohol to guests who are minors at their the party-goers and whether they have permission to 17-year-old’s birthday party without the approval of the consume alcohol. Where the parents or guardians of guests’ parents, guardians or spouses. However, there is minors are present, the police would need to establish nothing illegal about the guests arriving with their own with them whether they have given this permission, and alcohol to drink on the premises, as the adult in charge where they are not the police would need to determine has not supplied it. The offence is all in the supplying whether the adult in charge of the party has received without consent. In this situation enforcement will be a this permission from the parent or guardian of each challenge, as some children may have been given person under 18. How would the adult in charge go consent to be supplied with alcohol, whereas others about demonstrating to the police that they have have not — they may have just brought their own received this permission? That is not something that is alcohol. dealt with in the bill, nor have I read any comments from the minister about how that would work. One can This legislation attempts to address only half the see that what would otherwise be a short police visit to problem. The bill does not address parents’ concerns deal with a noisy party would end up being a very about their under-age children obtaining alcohol by lengthy process of establishing whether the law has their own means, turning up to a party and consuming been broken and by whom. it. The government should not try to pretend that it has fully addressed this issue. We hope it has not done this That may be fine, if that is what the government wants simply for the purposes of spin, but there has certainly to do, but the question must be asked: will police be been a record of it doing this over its 120-odd days in given extra resources to deal with the delays caused in government. We will have to leave it to the government

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904 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 to answer that question. A good starting point would be Amendment Bill 2011. The purpose of the bill is to to respond to the questions the opposition is putting impose further restrictions on the supply of liquor to forward in this debate. minors. As a previous speaker has said, alcohol consumption causes great problems in our community. I turn to other important issues. There is no definition of I have taken note of the comments made by the ‘parent’ in the act or the bill. When we think it through member for Mill Park — that is, that this legislation carefully, we realise that the act was designed to deal will not be the end of the matter and will not solve the with the availability, supply and consumption of problems on its own. However, I also make the point alcohol in premises other than private homes, so there that the previous government had 11 years to take these are deficiencies in the legislation that perhaps the steps, yet it is the Baillieu government that is getting on government could have been more attuned to in the with the job and implementing what it promised to do. crafting of the bill. There is no provision or requirement in the bill for adults to ascertain the age of minors. If Members of this government made a commitment at charged, an adult would be required to prove they had the 2010 election to prohibit the secondary supply of checked the age of the person drinking — that is, there liquor without parental consent to minors in private is a reverse onus of proof. homes, and now we are delivering on that commitment. This legislative amendment to the secondary supply of Another question I have about enforceability — and I alcohol laws is aligned with the government’s policy of seek the minister’s response to this — relates to the providing parents with further support in determining following situation. A friend is invited over to a mate’s how and when their children are exposed to alcohol. house after school. They are both 17 years of age. There is no adult at home. The 17-year-old who lives Currently section 119(3) of the Liquor Control Reform there and who is allowed to have a little bit of alcohol, Act 1998 prohibits the supply of liquor to minors; proceeds to get some from the fridge and offer it to their however, section 119(5)(e) of the act provides an mate. What happens in this situation? Is the 17-year-old exemption to this prohibition, therefore any adult may who lives in the premises the person who is responsible legally supply a minor with liquor in a residence. The and have they therefore committed an offence under the bill removes this exemption by providing that liquor bill? These are some of the practical issues that will must not be supplied to a minor in a residence unless come to the fore once the bill becomes law, and the the person supplying the alcohol is the minor’s parent, government will need to provide a practical response to guardian or spouse, if the spouse is aged 18 years or them. older, or if the person has been authorised to supply liquor to the minor by the parent, guardian or spouse, if It is vitally important that children are provided with the the spouse is of or over the age of 18 years. right message about the safe consumption of alcohol. The opposition urges the government to ensure it It is a defence to prosecution under this section if the informs all Victorians of the consequences of this supplier of alcohol saw proof of age that the recipient bill — both the consequences that have been put out was aged 18 years or more. The defence provides there for discussion and the consequences that have not protection of an adult who supplies alcohol to a minor been discussed and debated. That is vitally important. with a legitimate basis for believing that the minor is aged 18 years or over. A maximum of 60 penalty points The government should acknowledge that the bill will applies for the supply of liquor to a minor in a residence not solve the problems associated with alcohol use by persons other than a parent or guardian without amongst young people in private homes. To suggest parental consent. that it will would be extremely irresponsible, to say the least. Strong and well-targeted education campaigns Mr Eren — How much is 60 points? about the harmful effects of alcohol use amongst young people must be supported by the government. They Mr RWELLE — Sixty points costs $7160. I know must form part of a strategy to alert all Victorians, it is wrong to respond to interjections, but I am happy to young and old, as to the harmful effects of alcohol help the member for Lara. consumption. Every Victorian home, every Victorian family, will be affected by the bill. I conclude my As we all know, the consumption of alcohol by young remarks by saying that despite the concerns we have people is a concern to the community, and there are about its enforceability, Labor does not oppose the bill. some interesting statistics. The level of alcohol consumption amongst persons under the age of Mr WELLER (Rodney) — It gives me great 18 years is striking. The second-reading speech states: pleasure to rise to speak on the Liquor Control Reform

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The Victorian Drug and Alcohol Prevention Council’s 2009 We all have a role to play. The article also states: Victorian youth alcohol and drug survey found that 84 per cent of 16 and 17-year-olds surveyed confirmed they had ‘The Victorian government has an abundance of information consumed alcohol. Thirty-one per cent had consumed 20 or available to people to make the right choice when it comes to more standard drinks in any one day at least once in the past this issue’, he said. 12 months. ‘This isn’t just a police responsibility’. Recent studies suggest that frequent and excessive consumption of alcohol by young people leads to a range of Currently it is illegal to supply liquor to children, but there is health and social harms. These include alcohol-related an exception when it happens in a private home. injuries, hospital admissions, mental health problems and criminal and antisocial behaviour. This loophole has angered drug and alcohol groups for some time. Australian Drug Foundation chief executive John Clearly there is an issue that needed to be addressed, Rogerson yesterday applauded the new laws, saying they and this government is addressing it. Other jurisdictions would help reduce under-age drinking and prevent have already made similar amendments to their alcohol-related harms. legislation, including New South Wales, Queensland John Rogerson, the chief executive of the Australian and Tasmania. This legislation will harmonise Drug Foundation, supports the Baillieu-Ryan Victorian legislation with legislation in other parts of government in bringing this bill into the Parliament. Australia. The article continues:

Let me highlight that it is not just government members He said research showed that alcohol could damage a young who believe this step should be taken. An article by person’s brain and increase the risk of problems with alcohol Whitney Harris in the Bendigo Advertiser of 22 March later in life. states: ‘Parents deserve to be in control of their children’s access to alcohol, and this law puts this power back in their hands’, Adults who supply children with alcohol could face fines of Mr Rogerson said. more than $7000 under tough new laws to be introduced into Parliament this week. ‘It also gives parents an avenue for recourse when things go wrong’. The new legislation means Victoria will join New South Wales, Tasmania and Queensland by making it illegal for There are some other interesting aspects of the bill. adults to give other people’s children alcohol in their homes without parental permission. While the bill provides that parents can give their children permission to consume alcohol in another Under the new ‘secondary supply’ law, police will be able to home, it gives them the power to do it responsibly. We act on complaints by parents about their children drinking at should be demanding the responsible drinking of another person’s house. Police can issue on-the-spot fines of up to $7167 if they attend a private party and find under-18s alcohol. The member for Mill Park indicated that in her drinking without parental consent. household younger people were allowed to have a small drink with their meals. In many cultures young Sergeant Tony Kekich said the new laws would help Bendigo people are encouraged to drink responsibly at home and police tackle alcohol-fuelled violence, public drunkenness and street offences. learn how to manage alcohol responsibly at a young age. This bill returns power to parents so that they can ‘Bendigo Police will support any new laws that will assist in work with their children on the responsible reducing instances of antisocial behaviour and other offences consumption of alcohol, and it takes away the loophole brought on by under-age drinking’, he said. that enables children to consume alcohol in other ‘Ultimately this will assist in keeping young people safe in residences. The bill places the responsibility with the community’. parents and guardians so they are in control.

Those are not the words of government members; they The Australian Drug Foundation, Victoria Police and are the words of Sergeant Tony Kekich. The article the wider community have been asking for this continues: legislation, and this government is delivering on its Sergeant Kekich said police would be able to use the new promise. This government went to the 2010 election powers given to them to enforce the laws, but that it was up to with a commitment to change this legislation, and it is parents and carers to be vigilant and teach their children about yet another promise on which we are delivering. the dangers of alcohol. Ms BEATTIE (Yuroke) — I rise to speak on the Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011. Everyone knows that the consumption of alcohol is one of the biggest social issues facing not just Victorians

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906 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 but young people in general. During the last Parliament supply alcohol to a young person at a private place I was a member of the Drugs and Crime Prevention unless that adult is the parent or guardian of that minor Committee. Time after time when we were given a or unless they have specific permission to provide it to reference and had to inquire into drug and alcohol use the young person. we would hear from police, social workers and other parties that alcohol is one of the biggest issues in our The purpose of the bill is to impose further restrictions. society. Problems associated with alcohol consumption The changes will come into effect on 1 February 2012. include violence and under-age drinking, and they Currently alcohol can be provided in certain affect our society and our culture. circumstances such as when there is a meal being served at a licensed premises or in a residence. The It is not only confined to young people: alcohol effect of the bill is that parents can still provide their damages any brain. You do not have to be under 18 to children with alcohol and they can say to their friends, have your mind addled by alcohol. Sadly many people ‘My son or daughter can have a drink’. In Queensland who live with alcoholics know that. In relation to young the legislation goes even further. I do not think it is people we know that alcohol is not good for a envisaged that we will go down that path just yet. developing body, and it is not good for a developing mind. It is up to adults to teach young people to drink This side of the house does not oppose the bill. I talked responsibly. about being on the Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee, and it was during that time that we saw a We have heard others say that when they were young whole raft of legislation and social programs brought their parents gave them a drink, but that was in the into the Parliament under the Bracks and Brumby home and under parental supervision. A culture seems governments. One of those programs was about looking to have developed where young people can go to after your mates when they have had a drink. We parties and consume alcohol. We all know that alcohol provided a lot of drug and alcohol programs in schools, can damage lives, communities and families. We have particularly relating to year 8 and 9 curriculum seen a significant increase in the levels of alcohol materials. consumption. When I was on the Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee many people talked about their One of the things the previous government did under growing concern about the number of younger women the Victorian alcohol action plan was to introduce new drinking. We know that it is especially a problem for laws requiring licensed venues to provide free water for those aged 14 to 29. The responsibility for educating their patrons. Members will remember when it was young people about alcohol belongs not just to parents cheaper to buy a couple of beers than it was to buy a but to the whole community. glass of water in some licensed premises. There was also the campaign that asked young people to consider The member for Rodney talked about the issue of if they handled their alcohol or if alcohol handled them. 60 penalty units. Others have said it may be difficult to It is all about changing the culture. police this law. I think it will be very difficult, but it is not really about policing the law; it is about the cultural We often see young people being encouraged to drink, change that will occur so that it becomes almost particularly around festive occasions such as the Spring self-regulating. It will become unacceptable for young Racing Carnival and the football finals. It is about people to go to their mate’s place and have a drink. implementing legislation to create a cultural change That will be the cultural change. We have seen that in rather than the heavy hand of fines. It is about changing relation to smoking with young children in cars. People the culture. One of the things I was particularly pleased just do not do it now. We have seen a whole lot of about under the Bracks and Brumby governments was things that have caused cultural change. Cultural when we brought in the Safe City taxi ranks. People change, rather than the penalties, is what it is about. Of could go to a taxi rank and be safe there. We also had course the penalties will be there, but it is really about the ‘Step Back. Think.’ program to alter the way changing the culture. teenagers thought about violence. We granted police greater powers in the entertainment precincts and The current legislation does not regulate how people ensured that closed-circuit TV was installed in some of provide alcohol to friends and family members in their those city venues. We put a record number of police on own homes. There is no specific ban on people the streets as well. providing alcohol to minors in a private home if they are not their children. As other speakers have alluded This bill comes after a whole raft of legislative and to, many states have secondary supply laws and those educational programs to try to encourage cultural laws seem to have been successful. An adult must not change, and cultural change is the hardest change to

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 907 make. We have to impress upon young people importance of parents being the ones to make decisions particularly that you can go out and have a good time about the consumption of alcohol by their under-age without getting what is commonly known as ‘rotten as children. chops’. What is very clear in the bill is that even when An honourable member interjected. permission is given, a person who gives that permission cannot provide that permission recklessly; there is a Ms BEATTIE — Haven’t heard that? You have led duty of care in regard to the provision of alcohol. a very sheltered life! Alongside this the government will launch a $1 million education campaign, going absolutely to the heart of the You can go out and have a good time; just drink issue in relation to what the new law will be and, more responsibly. It is about the parents’ role in supervising broadly, why supplying alcohol to young people is the provision of alcohol to young people. It is about risky and can cause harm, as well as going to broader taking responsibility for the supply or non-supply of health messages. I am very proud that we will be alcohol when their son or daughter’s friends come into combining the introduction of new legislation with an the house. This bill takes one more step towards education campaign that will be very significant in controlling antisocial behaviour within our community. terms of getting this message across and changing It is not acceptable to give young people alcohol, and it outcomes in relation to risky drinking by young people. is not acceptable to have an unfettered supply of alcohol given to young people. This bill is very important because it puts control back into the hands of parents. There is very clear research With those few words, Labor will not be opposing the that shows that parents feel that they have limited bill. I hope this bill builds on earlier educational control in this regard; they say they do not know when programs and changes the culture in which young their children are drinking. These might be people think you have to be plied with grog to have a 12-year-olds, 13-year-olds or 14-year-olds. Parents good time. want that knowledge, they want that control and they Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Mental want that decision making. We are not seeking to limit Health) — I am very proud to speak on the Liquor the decisions parents can make in relation to their Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, which will children; we are seeking to limit the decisions that other introduce limitations on the secondary supply of people can make in relation to children who are not alcohol. I am very proud of the Baillieu government for their own. Parents also currently face a lot of pressure introducing this very important legislation. It is a great in relation to the supply of alcohol at under-age parties. step forward and has long been needed. I would also This bill draws a very clear line in the sand in relation like to recognise Leigh Clark, a 15-year-old boy who to that. You can say no; you can limit the supply of died just over 10 years ago as a result of an adult alcohol to young people; and if you provide alcohol to providing alcoholic substances to him, with tragic minors without permission, you will be breaking the consequences. His father, Bruce Clark, has long been a law. campaigner for this change in law, and in many ways The member for Rodney outlined the statistics, and it is the debate on this bill is in recognition of Leigh as a very concerning to see the data. Nearly 85 per cent of very stark example of the implications of not having 16-year-olds and 17-year-olds drink. Forty per cent of these laws in place. 16-year-olds and 17-year-olds had a drink last week, This bill seeks to limit what we believe is a loophole in and 31 per cent of 16-year-olds and 17-year-olds who the current legislation. Currently alcohol can be drink say that in the past 12 months they have provided to any person, including minors, in a private consumed more than 20 standard drinks on any one residence, and this legislation will limit that supply — day. There is massive amount of binge drinking and it is very clearly supply. We have always said it is happening across the board, and we see the implications supply, and the bill is about the supply of alcohol to of that on our streets, in our communities and in our minors. Under this bill alcohol will be able to be schools. The incidence of binge drinking by young supplied to minors with the permission of a parent, people is dramatic in our community, and this bill will guardian or spouse of a parent or guardian, but will not take an important step in terms of addressing those very be able to be provided freely and without any important issues. permission, as is the case currently. The penalty for In relation to where young people get their alcohol doing this without permission is 60 penalty units. We from, 61 per cent of young people surveyed said they think that sends a very clear message about the obtained alcohol from a friend. This goes to the heart of

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908 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 the bill. Many young people get alcohol from parents, That was also supported by Victoria Police Deputy and that is fine if that is a decision that parents make. Commissioner Kieran Walshe and former Chief But 61 per cent of young people surveyed said that they Commissioner of Police, Christine Nixon. The former obtained alcohol from a friend, obviously outside the police commissioner supported the introduction of permission of parents, parents’ friends or other adults, these laws. What we saw from the previous government and this bill goes to the heart of that issue. was that it received recommendations year after year and consistently refused to implement them. The We know there are serious consequences of under-age former member for Mitcham is quoted in an article in drinking, both short term and long term. I have recently the Age of 3 September 2010, which states: released data that the former government had sat on for a number of years that shows an increase in … consumer affairs minister Tony Robinson was dismissive alcohol-related assaults and alcohol-related of the idea, saying it was problematic … hospitalisations involving young people during the What we saw was that for years the former government period the former government was in office. The issue had recommendations made to it at all levels, such as has been spiralling out of control. We also know there from the Alcohol Policy Coalition and the child safety are long-term implications in relation to alcohol and commissioner. Its own Victorian alcohol action plan young people. There are many people who have been said: recommending this sort of legislation for a long time, but it was something that the former government … parents of young people generally feel ill-equipped in refused to put through. knowing the ‘right’ age or circumstance to permit alcohol consumption and that parents are not receiving clear guidance In 2006 the Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee about providing alcohol to minors and need some assistance. recommended the introduction of secondary supply However, the former government refused to take the laws. The member for Scoresby spoke very strongly on step of introducing this legislation and refused to put that, but the former government refused to do it. In parents back in control in relation to their children. 2010 the member for Yuroke, who was on the Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee, spoke in relation to I can go on. The Australian Drug Foundation and that issue. In fact it must stick in the throat of the Professor Rob Moodie — people again and again made member for Yuroke that she cannot support this recommendations. In fact VicHealth recently conducted legislation when it was a unanimous recommendation some consumer attitude surveys that show that 91 per of the Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee that this cent of parents support the introduction of these laws. secondary supply law be introduced. There is significant community support, there has been significant advice across the board and there have been There was direct advice to the former Minister for significant recommendations made, but it is the Mental Health from the Victorian Drug and Alcohol coalition government that is introducing the legislation. Prevention Council on exactly this issue. The response That is what makes the real difference. Enforcement was always, ‘We’ll look at it, we’ll think about has been happening in other states; fines are being something else’. The former minister was provided issued as a result of these laws in other states. We will with advice from her own council that this was be working with the police to introduce the measures, important, that it would provide a protective and we will be working on an educational campaign so community culture for young people, that it would that parents will know they have control in relation to it provide support to parents, that it would be an effective and will be able to make a difference in relation to their symbolic statement and would educate young people on children’s drinking. the harm. In concluding I want to once again thank Bruce Clark Mr Herbert interjected. for his advocacy and leadership on this issue in the name of his son, because these laws will make a Ms WOOLDRIDGE — The member for Eltham difference for other people’s sons and daughters. That asks about the police. Let me give the direct advice is what the Baillieu government is doing; it is drawing a provided to the minister from her own council in line in the sand as a starting point in relation to young relation to the police. The Victoria Police representative people binge drinking with the tough decisions we are is reported as saying that Victoria Police: prepared to make. This very important secondary … believes that it could prove to be a powerful tool for supply legislation is just an example of that. I commend parents to make choices about their children, and not others this bill to the house. I commend the government for making these choices on their behalf. introducing it, and I look forward to working with

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 909 families and communities to realise the benefits of the sporting clubs. The Good Sports program that was run reduction of alcohol-fuelled violence as a result. under the previous government provided excellent advice and resources to sporting clubs in Victoria — Ms GRALEY (Narre Warren South) — I rise today and dollars in many cases — to run programs to to speak on the Liquor Control Reform Amendment encourage parents to think about how they could Bill 2011. I note this bill amends the Liquor Control behave better and provide guidance to young people Reform Act 1998 to make changes to the way in which who may be nipping one behind the sports shed after a people under 18 years of age obtain access to alcohol in game. The races or sports clubs are often places where private residences. The amendments to the Liquor kids start their drinking habits, and often, as we know, Control Reform Act 1998 make it an offence to supply these habits can have detrimental effects on them in the liquor to a minor in a residence without parental future. consent. As other speakers on this side of the house before me have said, Labor does not oppose this bill. I The other day I spoke to a lady in my electorate office think everybody in this chamber is quite aware of the who said that a sporting club in my electorate has fact that alcohol consumption is really a very big issue decided not to serve alcohol from Monday to Friday. It for many young people and many families, as it is for is a senior football club where it is the norm for men many people in my electorate. and women to sit around drinking during and after training. This sporting club has taken the matter into its I represent an electorate that has many young people in own hands; it has realised what is going on, and it is it — in fact a great deal more young people than attempting to change the culture. This kind of action is anywhere else in Victoria. My electorate is infamous something that was very much supported by the for running one of the biggest parties of all time. In that previous government in many different ways. Members incident, which happened around the Christmas-New of this club have taken it into their own hands to stop Year period, hundreds of young people were enjoying a drinking during the week, mainly because they do not party — and I use that word ‘enjoying’ with some want their kids to see it but also because — and this is a degree of leniency. It was a sad case illustrating how very pertinent point which was made by the lady I parties to which kids go along to have a good time can spoke to in my electorate office — the sports club is actually get out of control. In this case the parents were building a new community facility that it wants to rent not at home, but we have all heard about parties out to people from all sorts of different backgrounds children have gone to where alcohol has been made and age groups and it does not want people sitting freely available by adults, and this has caused distress around drinking when others come to use the to families, distress to parents and has resulted in young community facilities. The sports club wants to establish people getting drunk. a community facility that is a safe place for all people to enjoy. Binge drinking is taking place in alarming proportions, and we are all concerned about it. I agree with the The Minister for Mental Health spoke earlier about all member for Yuroke that it is particularly disconcerting of these kinds of things spiralling out of control. It is to see so many young women getting drunk. I suppose true that alcohol has become a prevalent issue in the we have all been to the races during the Melbourne Cup community. I have to say that when I watch the cricket carnival, where one of the most unedifying sights you I find it a little too much when every cricketer turns can see is young women dressed to the nines falling their shoulder to bat and they have a big VB sign on over themselves as they are leaving the races or trying their shoulder. I know that cricket, footy, soccer and to get home from the races. It is not a pretty sight. basketball teams need the support of sponsors, but that Anything that helps to change the culture around VB sign is right in your face every time Ricky Ponting drinking — — drives down mid-on. It is a bit disconcerting. We have to think seriously about the fact that alcohol is so Ms Wooldridge interjected. widely promoted.

Ms GRALEY — I say to the minister, as I have Some people are very concerned about the already mentioned, that Labor does not oppose this bill. enforceability of this legislation. There will be people As our lead speaker pointed out, there have been many who say that this is party pooping or that it is the nanny cases of the Bracks and Brumby governments taking state gone crazy. I hear these concerns so often when action to try to change the culture around drinking. A the government takes up responsibility on such issues number of people in my electorate have talked to me and leads the way, especially when parents are not about the appalling behaviour of some parents at doing the right thing, but what the bill does is allow people to say no. That is a good thing. Parents need to

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910 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 be encouraged to have the confidence to lead by think appropriate, and it aims to prevent alcohol from example and to say to their children, ‘Do not do as I being introduced to teens without parental support at say, but do as I do’. However, I can see that some places like parties. It will mean teens will be taught parents may be a little concerned about how this new responsible drinking at home rather than being legislation is going to be enforced. pressured into getting wasted at a party. It will provide for a safe introduction to alcohol rather than a situation I have spoken a lot about things that happen in my that might end in tragedy. This legislation will electorate. Not so long ago I had the personal empower parents. This law is common sense. That is experience of attending a medical appointment with a why the coalition has introduced it after Labor would young family member. The appointment was with a not do so during its 11 dark years of neglect and neurosurgeon, and we were discussing the future health harm — 11 dark years of disempowering parents and and wellbeing of this family member. She had been communities, 11 dark years of allowing alcohol-related sick, and she asked the neurosurgeon when she could problems to flourish in our communities and 11 dark start drinking alcohol again. I was very impressed by years of media releases and glossy brochures but no the neurosurgeon, because he answered her in a way positive outcomes. that I think everybody should take notice of. He said to her, ‘You know, in 10 years time when we are looking Let me provide the house with an example of what can at the effects of alcohol on young people’s brains, the happen. This example, taken from the Australian Drug effects of binge drinking and the effects of alcohol Foundation’s PolicyTalk newsletter, is a situation that consumption on the community, we will be as alarmed took place in 2005. The newsletter states: then as we are now about tobacco’. Alcohol is the tobacco of our times. The neurosurgeon implored this During school holidays — young member of my family to drink wisely while a 15-year-old — enjoying her parties and made sure she knew that having a good time did not mean going out and getting … was staying with the family of a school friend. The father what the member for Yuroke called ‘rotten as chops’. of the family purchased a 24-can carton of vodka and orange and gave it to the three 15-year-old boys. The boys lit a As I have said, Labor will not oppose this bill. It campfire and started to drink the alcohol, unsupervised, on a country property. The parents allowed the three boys to drink provides parents, families and the community with the entire carton, and after consuming eight cans — another step in the right direction towards providing a change of culture around the consumption of alcohol. the teen —

Ms WREFORD (Mordialloc) — I rise in strong … passed out and fell into the campfire, badly burning support of the Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill himself. 2011. I am passionate about doing something to address No parent wants their child put at risk. I am aware of the negative impacts alcohol has on young people and other first-time drinking situations that have resulted in their families. unplanned pregnancies, serious injuries and even death. Families have lost their children to incidents of Far too often I have heard stories from families about alcoholic poisoning or incidents that have occurred what has happened at the party the kids were at over the because they were too intoxicated to walk straight in weekend or what might happen at the next one. Many dangerous environments where the parents were not parents have complained to me about the pressures they present and others provided the alcohol. There are some face as their children have their 15th, 16th and famous examples of children becoming injured after 17th birthday parties. In so many cases peer pressure someone else provided alcohol and there being little or dictates that your children could become outcasts if you no recourse. All of that was acceptable to the previous do not supply alcohol at a party, no matter what your government. This coalition is fixing the problems. opinion or the opinion of your child is. Between 1999 and 2008 the previous government More importantly alcohol is dangerous for teens. In oversaw alcohol-related ambulance attendances communities where there is less peer pressure in increase by 167 per cent and alcohol-related visits to relation to alcohol at parties this legislation will not emergency departments increase by 98 per cent. Every bother too many. In communities where alcohol is a big year in Victoria there are about 2000 assaults involving problem this bill will give worried parents a great deal alcohol-affected youths, 24 000 hospitalisations related of support. This legislation empowers parents. This to alcohol abuse, over 4700 alcohol-related ambulance legislation will allow families to manage their call-outs, 15 000 apprehensions for public drunkenness children’s early encounters with alcohol in a way they and 700 alcohol-related deaths. These statistics are

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 911 unacceptable. In all that carnage Labor never grabbed likely to be with a meal rather than an exercise on its the bull by the horns. It never took strong enough own. This legislation is about harm minimisation — action. It never thought to listen to the community and making it safer for people drinking for the first time, empower parents with legislation like this. That is why making it safer for families, making it harder for parties it is in opposition. to get out of control, reducing the number suffering injuries and making it safer for those around us. I have been a long-time advocate for the empowerment of parents and the preventing of the secondary supply This legislation makes the law clear and consistent. of alcohol. In my previous life, at a council meeting on Until you are 18 only your parents or guardians can 15 April 2008 I moved that council write to the state provide you with a drink — that is simple. We have all government seeking changes to the Victorian state heard horror stories and none of us wants to be making legislation to make it an offence for anyone, except a judgements about whether someone else’s parents are parent or guardian, to sell or supply liquor to a minor, going to put on a safe party. We do not want harm to as per section 114 of the New South Wales Liquor Act come to our kids, and it does not need to be that way. 1982. The motion was carried. The response from the The previous government would not support families, former minister dated 6 October and received in teens and the community. It would not act, but we will. December — it took two months to find a postbox! — was disappointing. It said that there would be a This legislation will dramatically improve first discussion at the Council of Australian Governments in encounters with alcohol, remove a lot of pressures and December 2008. Labor had two years to do something empower parents. This legislation will provide a safety after that discussion but still failed to take action. Even net for young people, especially the vulnerable. It will the former New South Wales Labor government reinforce the community message that it is both unsafe managed to get this right before it was thrown out of and unacceptable to supply an under-age child with office because of its scandals and the carbon tax, but alcohol unless you are their parent or guardian. It will Victorian Labor was unable to do so. reduce pressure on minors to start drinking earlier. It will provide parents with good reasons to resist Last August the Victorian Parliament’s Drugs and supplying minors with alcohol for consumption without Crime Prevention Committee tabled its final report on their supervision. It will give parents clear reasons and its inquiry into strategies to reduce assaults in public support to impose boundaries, which will help with the places. parenting of their children. It will provide the catalyst for a change in attitudes surrounding the safe Sitting suspended 6.30 p.m. until 8.01 p.m. consumption of alcohol for young people.

Ms WREFORD — The parliamentary Drugs and The Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011 will Crime Prevention Committee had been pushing for be a big win for Victorian families. I commend the bill secondary supply laws for some time. In 2006 it to the house. recommended that the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 be amended to prohibit secondary supply in Mr PERERA (Cranbourne) — I will make a brief private residences, but the advice was not accepted by contribution to the Liquor Control Reform Amendment the then government. The prospect of secondary supply Bill 2011. The bill before the house amends the Liquor legislation had been sitting in the previous Control Reform Act 1998 to make it an offence in a government’s hands for at least four years, yet that private house to supply liquor to minors — children government did nothing. who are under 18 years of age. The overwhelming majority of stakeholders in the alcohol industry support The coalition government is taking action to protect this legislation because it attempts to reduce alcohol teens and families, making them a top priority. Alcohol binge drinking behaviour among minors. Under current is dangerous for teens because their bodies and brains legislation it is not an offence to supply alcohol to are still developing and alcohol can be harmful to that minors in a private residence. The exemption is that development. Studies show that drinking from a young when the parent, guardian or spouse of the under-age age can harm physical and mental health, lead to minor consents to the provision of alcohol, then any learning and memory difficulties, increase risky adult can supply alcohol to a minor. behaviour in the future, increase antisocial behaviour in the future and much more. Many of these risks are The fine for supplying alcohol to a minor at a private significantly reduced with a later introduction to residence is set at 60 penalty units, which is equivalent alcohol. If you learn to drink with family, it is more to $7167. That is a hefty penalty. In my view, for the likely to be based on restraint than excess and it is more community at large to benefit from this bill there has to

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912 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 be a wide-ranging publicity campaign about the Minister for Community Services to say parents are enactment of this legislation. Publicity should be part of this. She also said 91 per cent of parents support undertaken through ethnic radio and print media in the the legislation. She cannot walk on both sides of the different languages that are widely used in Victoria. road. Awareness is really important for the success of this legislation, because it is all about the education process. If the government really believes that parents regularly Adults and minors need to be aware that there is supply alcohol to their young children’s mates at parties legislation which provides that if you breach the act, in their house, then it should expect those parents to you will be liable for a fine of up to $7167. This will be already be supplying their own kids too. Parents will very hard to implement. I wish it could be easier, but not be supplying alcohol to their son’s mates if they are implementation will be more or less impossible. not supplying alcohol to their son. However, this bill Despite this, the bill is a positive step towards reducing does not prohibit parents from supplying alcohol to the alcohol consumption by minors; therefore I and the their own children. Take the example of a parent in a other members of the opposition support this bill. family with a strong alcohol culture supplying some alcohol to a child on their 18th birthday. A father may Apart from the education aspect of the bill, however, in offer a bottle of wine, whisky or whatever to a son and my view not only are all of its good intentions say, ‘Mate, you are an adult today, so you can have invariably redundant but the bill will create issues for this’. A week later the son might have a party for his hosts who are not guilty of breaching the legislation. mates, some over 18, some under 18, and he might The bill will not have the effect the government argues share the bottle of alcohol. If there is loud music and a it will have. The second-reading speech states that the police car turns up, the police will then have to check 2009 Victorian youth alcohol and drug survey reported who is over 18, who is under 18 and who supplied the that over half of the minors surveyed indicated that they alcohol. As far as the police know it could have been usually consumed alcohol at a friend’s place. That is the workmates who supplied the alcohol, so the police case most of the time, with 61 per cent of respondents would have to go after the workmates too and find having received alcohol from a friend or acquaintance. exactly who supplied the alcohol. This would be a big That friend or acquaintance could be anybody. The job for the police, exhausting their resources. That is survey did not specify whether minors were receiving why I am worried — it is a very unfortunate effect. It is alcohol from their friends’ parents or family members. a good bill, but its implementation will be very hard, and it will not have the effect intended. No survey has indicated that a high percentage of parents of minors’ friends have supplied alcohol to The Brumby government introduced a $37 million minors at private parties or in private houses. In fact I long-term strategy for addressing alcohol-related harm, have not heard of any incidents where adult hosts Restoring the Balance — Victoria’s Alcohol Action supplied alcohol in a big way to guests who were Plan 2008–2013. This featured awareness campaigns to minors. Younger, pre-teen kids generally do not change community attitudes and encourage a safe and consume alcohol at private functions; they go to sensible approach to alcohol use, early intervention and McDonald’s or sometimes have a good time at private prevention initiatives to encourage problem drinkers to houses. The problem is with teenagers, especially those seek help or change their drinking habits and the aged 15 to 18. At that stage most young people do Quality Care for Alcohol Problems project to help GPs part-time work and therefore have some money and and primary health teams by providing support for also have friends over 18, so it is not hard for them to specialists trained in treating addiction and organise their own alcohol if they so wish and if their alcohol-related problems. circle of friends has an alcohol-consuming culture. These were effective measures. Under the Brumby Some minors who live in a party culture even have the government there was also the campaign which asked opportunity to steal from their parents’ cupboards. If ‘Will you handle your alcohol or will alcohol handle there is no group alcohol culture, the minors will not you?’ to educate the community about the consume alcohol even if adults such as parents offer consequences of making the wrong choices about them alcohol at their house. The survey also reported alcohol and violence. Such education measures are very 84 per cent of the 16 and 17-year-olds surveyed important for both adults and minors. I support the bill. confirmed they had consumed alcohol. There were no alarming statistics to say they had consumed alcohol in Mr NORTHE (Morwell) — It gives me great residences where parents or adults had supplied it. As I pleasure to rise to speak on the Liquor Control Reform said earlier, 61 per cent said they got alcohol from Amendment Bill 2011. The purpose of the bill is to friends or acquaintances; it is misleading for the amend the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 to impose

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 913 further restrictions on the supply of liquor to minors. In If you look at the statistics in relation to younger people some senses the bill is simplistic in its intent. It is yet consuming alcohol, you find that they are quite another measure being taken by the Baillieu-Ryan damning, and other members have mentioned this in government to assist in the tackling of alcohol-related their contributions. The Victorian Drug and Alcohol incidents. Prevention Council’s 2009 youth alcohol and drug survey indicates where younger people consume Clause 3 explains very clearly what the bill seeks to do, alcohol and how they acquire it. The statistics for 16 to and that is to amend: 17-year-olds show that 53 per cent of persons in that age bracket consume alcohol at a friend’s house, and … the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 to further restrict the supply of liquor to a person under the age of 18 in a residence this legislation seeks to ensure that parents of children to the following circumstances … who might venture off to a mate’s place to have a drink have a reason to ask the other parents about their child’s Such circumstances are: access to alcohol if that is what they desire — or not, where the liquor is supplied by a parent, guardian or spouse and I think that is the important part. The survey also over 18 years of age; or shows how people under 18 years obtain alcohol: in 2009, 44 per cent obtained alcohol that was bought by a where the liquor is supplied to the person under the age of 18 parent, and that is quite a significant statistic with by someone who is authorised by that person’s parent, guardian or spouse over 18 years of age. respect to how younger people are acquiring alcohol and where they are drinking it. In part this legislation This is one element of a number of measures being put seeks to address what is an anomaly. in place by the coalition government to reduce alcohol-related harm. In the last sitting week of In her contribution the Minister for Mental Health Parliament we introduced the Justice Legislation detailed the high-profile case of 15-year-old Leigh Amendment Bill 2011, which provides for a range of Clark, who tragically lost his life due to the excessive measures including increasing the maximum penalty consumption of alcohol. That case was highlighted for being drunk and disorderly. It introduces the new because the alcohol was purchased by Leigh Clark’s offence of remaining in the vicinity of a licensed mate’s parents. Leigh’s father, Bruce, has been a very premises from which an individual has been refused strong advocate for this legislation on the basis that entry or requested to leave. It also introduces the new there were really no laws that applied to the person who offence of re-entering a licensed premises within purchased and supplied Leigh Clark with alcohol in 24 hours of being refused entry or of being requested to order to bring them before the judiciary. Along with leave. That legislation includes a number of other many other advocates, Bruce Clark has had his say with measures which seek to tackle not only alcohol-fuelled respect to this legislation. violence but also alcohol-related harm. The Alcohol Policy Coalition has come out very In recent times the coalition has taken other measures, strongly to endorse the legislation before us today. The including just this week introducing a new requirement coalition consists of a number of prominent and for packaged liquor outlets to obtain a planning permit pre-eminent authorities. A media release from the before commencing their business. This fulfils an coalition dated 21 March states: election commitment to ensure that liquor licensees fall ‘This legislation has widespread support. We know a under the jurisdiction of a five-star rating and demerit significant majority of the population is behind the Victoria point system. We have seen the introduction of government’s plans for the legislation. A Victorian additional front-line police officers, and 16 additional parliamentary committee recommended this law in 2006, and police were allocated to the city of Latrobe, which goes similar laws are already in place in New South Wales, Queensland and Tasmania’, Alcohol Policy Coalition some way to tackling alcohol-related incidents. spokesman Geoff Munro said. I have mentioned many times in this house the good Geoff Munro is further quoted as saying: work of the Traralgon and Morwell central business district safety committees. I am an active participant on The state government has made a wise decision to take action those committees. They seek to put in local initiatives to reduce risk drinking among Victoria’s children … to address alcohol-related incidents not just from a That is a strong endorsement by the Alcohol Policy community safety perspective but also to ensure that we Coalition with respect to the legislation being debated try to change the culture of our young people taking up today. alcohol in significant quantities.

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In a media release dated 21 March the Australian Drug and sanctions that can be imposed on other adults who Foundation states: are supervising children who are not their own. The Labor Party does not oppose the legislation because it is The Australian Drug Foundation today commended the important that members of this place send a clear Victorian government for their move to protect children from alcohol harm by this week introducing Victoria’s first message to the community that the supply of alcohol to secondary supply law. minors without permission from a parent or guardian is illegal. Hopefully the bill will pass. John Rogerson, the CEO of the foundation, is quoted as saying: This issue is dealt with in clause 3 of the bill, and the second-reading speech gives some interesting statistics. Parents deserve to be in control of their children’s access to In particular it notes that the 2009 Victorian youth alcohol and this law puts this power back in their hands. It also gives parents an avenue for recourse when things go alcohol and drug survey found that over half the minors wrong. surveyed said they usually consumed alcohol at a friend’s house and that 61 per cent of respondents had Those are three examples of endorsement of the received alcohol from a friend or acquaintance. legislation. Ultimately these amendments are about continuing the community discussion about the obligations and In her contribution the member for Yuroke mentioned responsibilities we have as parents or guardians to the culture that may exist amongst our younger people children in our care, whatever the circumstances. with respect to alcohol consumption, and I agree with her comments. This is not an approach that will Peer pressure is clearly a defining issue for young eliminate the excessive use of alcohol by younger people in so many ways. It remains to be seen whether people. Somehow we need to change the culture, but I these amendments, if supported and used by parents firmly believe this legislation will add to a culture and guardians, can also ease the pressure on young whereby parents will be empowered to ensure that their people who find themselves at a friend’s party and children do not go to a mate’s place and undertake saying yes when alcohol is offered by the host. There is excessive use of alcohol. no doubt that parents also come under pressure when hosting parties for their sons and daughters and perhaps The penultimate paragraph of the minister’s turn a blind eye at times to who is drinking alcohol. second-reading speech really says it all. It states: There will perhaps be a greater level of responsibility The objective of the bill is to provide parents with greater imposed on parents in their home to manage these support in deciding how their child is exposed to liquor. This issues if they are hosting other minors who are friends objective will be supported by a comprehensive information of their sons or daughters and they are providing them and education campaign that will provide the community with with alcohol. a greater understanding of the issues associated with under-age drinking. I note that the Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Unfortunately we have a problem, but I think this Committee has no substantive issues with the bill. I legislation is a great step in the right direction. It is ably would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the supported by many people with vast experience in the work of some young people who are part of the ‘Step field. It is in line with other jurisdictions across Back. Think.’ campaign to alter the way teenagers think Australia, and it is a great step in the right direction to about violence and alcohol. The young people I refer to ensure that our younger people change their culture and saw one of their own number suffer serious acquired understand what is available to them. It is also brain injury from one punch related to alcohol-fuelled important for parents of younger people. Like many violence. The Bracks and Brumby governments worked other members in this place I have children who are at with those passionate and committed young people who an age where they are looking at these types of things. are seeking to drive change among their fellow young It is important that parents are empowered to ensure people. The Brumby government worked with them to that when their child goes out to a mate’s place they can tell their story in local schools and through leadership be confident about their safety. programs in an effort to get more young people to understand the repercussions that one alcohol-related Mr CARBINES (Ivanhoe) — I am pleased to speak act of aggression could have on others. on the Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, which seeks to provide a mechanism that bans adults Many young people in our community are taking steps from supplying alcohol to a minor in a private home to address antisocial behaviour that is fuelled by unless parental consent is given. This bill potentially excessive alcohol consumption. The bill seeks to gives parents some peace of mind about the obligations empower parents and obliges them to take greater

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 915 responsibility for minors who are friends of their sons opposition has still chosen to use this minor event for political and daughters and who socialise and attend parties at effect. their home. Ultimately we all have a role to play. The letter is signed by Michael Kapel, chief of staff in Nothing will stop parents from being anxious at times the Premier’s office. when their teenagers as part of their rite of passage are out on the town with their mates or at a mate’s house. Ms Hennessy — On a point of order, Speaker, there This legislation legitimately gives parents a greater are a number of assertions contained in that letter that opportunity to play a role in supporting young people as the opposition would contest. Given that those they make their way in a community in which alcohol assertions go to conduct that occurred within the is a significant component of social activity in so many parliamentary precinct, I seek some clarity from you as contexts. I wait with interest to see how many to the basis upon which you will seek assurances. For prosecutions are brought under this legislation and how example, will the tape recorder be required to be involved police are in dealing with these matters when produced for you to be able to assure yourself that the parties get out of control because of alcohol-related assertions contained in that letter are correct? activity. The SPEAKER — Order! I did not believe that that Every initiative helps and we have much more to do. I was part of the original issue that was put to me. It was hope that this amending bill will add to the significant a matter of the recording and what happened. It also initiatives the Labor Party took in its time in related to where the media was going with this issue. I government to work with the community to grapple understand that this was the very first day this young with the causes and effects of excessive alcohol lady had been employed and that she was quite upset consumption in our society. I commend the bill to the about the issue. She was not aware she was doing the house. wrong thing at the time. She immediately stopped when she was made aware of it and apologised to Mr Pallas at Debate adjourned on motion of Mr CLARK the time. (Attorney-General). Ms Hennessy — Further on the point of order, Debate adjourned until later this day. Speaker, when the manager of opposition business raised this issue with you, she sought clarification as to RULINGS BY THE CHAIR your ruling on a member of Parliament being taped in the parliamentary precinct without their consent. Is it Media conference: recording your intention to provide a ruling on that issue?

The SPEAKER — Order! I have received a letter in The SPEAKER — Order! I believe the apology has response to the question that was raised earlier by the been given. I understand from the way that it read that member for Bendigo East in regard to the member for the girl was very apologetic. It was not her intention to Tarneit and the recording device that was used. I made tape the member for Tarneit; in fact at the time she was some inquiries. I now have a letter from the Office of not aware of who the member for Tarneit was. It is one the Premier which I would like to read into Hansard so of those small problems that has arisen, and I hope the that people understand the situation. The letter states: apology that has come through has set out the issue clearly. Today in the house an opposition member alleged that a member of the government’s media staff was instructed to Ms Hennessy — Further on the point of order, record a media conference being conducted by the member Speaker, I foreshadow and reserve the rights of both the for Tarneit, Mr Pallas, outside Parliament House. This claim member for Tarneit and the manager of opposition is incorrect. business — — During media conferences today, a new government media assistant was recording government members’ comments for The SPEAKER — Order! I sought an explanation; the purpose of preparing a transcript. She mistakenly also the explanation has been given. I have read it to the recorded an opposition member. house so that people understand that there was a When the mistake was pointed out, the media assistant genuine explanation as to the difficulty. immediately stopped taping, apologised to Mr Pallas, and left. Mr Eren — On the point of order, Speaker, it needs There was absolutely no intention to interfere with the usual to be put on the record that it is not about the individual; etiquette surrounding media conferences. The mistake was it is about the ruling of the Speaker in terms of the explained at the time. It is disappointing that, regardless, the practices of the house about behaviour within the

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916 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 parliamentary precinct. As we understand it, only I thank the Office of Housing for providing me with a journalists have the right to record members. It is about briefing on the bill. It was helpful in clarifying a the Speaker making a ruling on that. number of matters. The bill inserts two new sections, 250A and 250B, into the principal legislation. I will The SPEAKER — Order! I do not know that there take them separately. New section 250A, to be inserted has ever been any sort of ruling as such on the issue that into the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, seeks to was raised. We should all be aware that when a minister proscribe a range of conduct: trafficking or attempting or member of Parliament makes statements outside the to traffic a drug of dependence; supplying a drug of house there is normally somebody there from one party dependence to a person under 18 years of age; or the other who will be taping them so that the tapes possessing a preparatory item with the intention of can be referred to in case of any difficulties regarding using it for the purpose of drug trafficking; possessing, what the media reports as having been said. The young without a lawful excuse, a tablet press or a precursor lady believed she was recording a member of the chemical; and cultivating or attempting to cultivate a government, not a member of the opposition. She narcotic plant. apologised profusely at the time. I advise the member for Lara that I do not believe this to be a major issue. It The bill gives the director of housing the authority to was a genuine mistake, and apologies have been made. prosecute such conduct by serving a public housing I do not think this should go any further. tenant notice to vacate, alleging the commission of an offence in the rented premises or a common area, and by applying to VCAT to evict the tenant. The director RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES AMENDMENT can take this action without the person being charged or (PUBLIC HOUSING) BILL 2011 convicted of any offence.

Second reading During the four years I had the honour of being the Minister for Housing preceding this Parliament, the Debate resumed from 24 March; motion of custom and practice was that my office took a number Mr DELAHUNTY (Minister for Sport and of cases to VCAT, but in each of those cases the Recreation). minimum evidentiary requirement was that a person be charged by Victoria Police — at least they were Mr WYNNE (Richmond) — I rise to put the charged! This legislation provides for a significant position of the opposition in relation to the Residential departure from what was the accepted practice in my Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) Bill 2011. By time as minister, because it is a very serious matter way of background, members of the house will be potentially to take a person’s property — their aware that in late January and early February there was household — away from them. As we know, many some media coverage of a particular decision of the tenants living in public housing are some of the poorest Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal. The people in our community. I was always extremely decision went against the director of housing in relation measured in my approach to trying to address these to a matter she brought before VCAT regarding very difficult questions. allegations that a public housing tenant had been trafficking in drugs on a public housing property. Drug trafficking and these types of criminal behaviour are not in any way particularly associated with public The particular aspect of the VCAT decision which the housing — as we know, they are matters that occur bill seeks to address in new section 250A is that the more broadly across the community — however, I note director of housing had failed to form a clear linkage that the amendment before us specifically deals only between the public housing unit and the illegal with property that is within the direct control of the behaviour to which the tenant freely admitted. I think director of public housing. I will come back to that on at least a couple of occasions he had admitted to matter, as will some of my colleagues, in relation to the Victoria Police that he had been trafficking in drugs. It social housing sector and the rooming house sector. It is is in that context that the amendment made by new a significant departure for the director of housing to be section 250A is before us for discussion tonight. The in a position to make a judgement about somebody’s reason for the decision was that the VCAT member was character, and the evidentiary burden that is provided not satisfied that the alleged illegal behaviour had been does not even go to the point of requiring that a person committed in the public housing unit itself, but rather in be charged by Victoria Police. We find ourselves facing the doorway or common area near the flat. In this a potentially very dangerous precedent. instance I understand it was a high-rise unit in the inner city.

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My experience over nearly 25 years of involvement in In my prior working life many of my colleagues in the public and social housing — and in this context I will legal fraternity were not happy with me because they only speak in relation to the high-rise estates, because felt that, whilst this evidentiary burden was perhaps a that is the area in which I have spent most of my reasonable one, people ought to have the right to have working life — was that it takes only a very small their matter heard in the courts and their guilt or number of people who may be engaged in illegal innocence resolved. activity, such as drug trafficking, to ruin a public housing tower. In my own area I have had numerous Mr Delahunty interjected. experiences of cases where the lives of thoroughly decent people have effectively been ruined by the Mr WYNNE — The minister opposite says they behaviours of a tiny number of people. It may often be can take the matter to VCAT, which is where these only one, two, three or four people in a tower of 200 — matters are contested, and of course we do have one on or a tower of 300, as is the case in the electorate of my appeal, which is well known to members who take an colleague the member for Albert Park — who can interest in these matters. absolutely ruin the amenity for the decent folk who live On balance — and it was an on-balance decision that there and who want to make a life for themselves, many we made — we felt that if there was an evidentiary of whom use their public housing property as a burden placed upon the director of housing that stepping stone to other housing options in the future, somebody be charged, then at least that would be a but fundamentally housing that is safe, affordable and reasonable proposition. Members of the opposition secure. have significant concerns about the application of new I was always very sympathetic to the many pleas and section 250A as currently proposed by the government. representations that were made to me. Some people If there is goodwill, there are ways these matters can be said to me, ‘How is it that these people who are known resolved between the houses. drug traffickers manage to maintain a tenancy in this In relation to these amendments, as members of this housing and completely ruin the amenity for other house would know, we had only a week to have people?’. Indeed we did act, and in a way that I think broader consultation. was measured, balanced and responsible. We said that the vast majority of residents who lived in public An honourable member interjected. housing ought to have peaceful enjoyment of their property, that they ought not be in fear of drug Mr WYNNE — That is not correct. By agreement traffickers who were illegally using a public housing we have had a week. We have had only a week to property and that it was a responsible measure for the consult with a range of interested parties, who have state to address this question. We addressed this very clear views about these amendments. Indeed it question by taking a number of cases to VCAT, some was only at 4.30 p.m. that I received some consolidated successfully. One case is on appeal at the moment, advice from a range of interested parties, including, not which I will come back to at the end of my surprisingly, the Victorian Council of Social Service, contribution, because there are some questions that the Public Interest Law Clearing House, the tenants and need to be addressed. others in the legal profession who had spent a good deal of time assessing consequences — and indeed potential However, in general terms it is not an unreasonable unintended consequences — that may lie at the heart of proposition to suggest that in relation to the proscribed this bill. Quite literally we have had only a very brief activity that was sought to be addressed through the period of time to assess what our colleague VCAT decision — that is, the behaviours of people stakeholders have to say about this bill, and who were dealing in drug trafficking, and I indicated unsurprisingly they also have significant concerns what the broader scope of those provisions were — a about the application of the bill itself. minimum requirement should be that an evidentiary burden be placed upon the director of housing in that Proposed section 250B goes to the question of the circumstance. It should not be a carte blanche power or director of housing having the capacity to take a matter a situation where the director of housing can give from to VCAT if a tenant has allegedly committed an her — in this case — own point of view any guidance indictable offence. It provides the director of housing as to when she or her officers should act on these with a means by which a tenant can in fact be evicted matters. I would have thought a minimum requirement from their property. Members of the house would know would be that a person ought to have at least been that an indictable offence — and I bow to the superior charged. knowledge of the speaker who will follow me, the member for Brunswick, who will address some of these

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918 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 questions — can vary from a theft through to some of charged. The director of housing — and may I say she the most serious crimes that we could consider. is an excellent director of housing — will now find herself in an invidious position of being both judge and When I was in the briefing I asked the briefing officers, jury over behaviours because there is no point at which ‘What is the policy intent of this broad-reaching anybody independent of the director is able to judge provision in new section 250B? Is it a catch-all for all these matters. This is bad, bad legislation. It is bad indictable offences?’. Frankly, the briefing officers did legislation when you do not have checks and balances not have an answer. They could not point me to any in place to ensure that there is some moderation over offence that they sought to proscribe in new the state, particularly when it is dealing with the section 250B. Perhaps they have thought of some along question of a person’s shelter. That is a fundamental the way, but it strikes me that you ought not thing. Shelter — safe, affordable and secure housing — proscriptively seek to apply a legislative measure to a is a fundamental thing, and we have to ensure that there matter that you are not even sure about — that is, you are appropriate checks and balances in the process. We are not even sure there is an offence that you would argue from our side that checks and balances are necessarily wish to cover off. currently missing in new sections 250A and 250B.

As I indicate to the house, and indeed to the Minister I turn now to some issues addressed by the Scrutiny of for Housing, who I am sure is listening to this debate, if Acts and Regulations Committee in Alert Digest No. 3, there is a matter of such urgency and import that needs which was tabled today. We have only had limited to be covered off by way of the proposed section 250B, opportunity to review the deliberations of SARC. There bring it before the Parliament, tell us what is is a matter in Alert Digest No. 3 that I think is quite proscribed — what is the illegal behaviour that you interesting. I ask that the Minister for Sport and seek to proscribe — and we will debate it, just like we Recreation, who is at the table, and the government debated new section 250A, which quite specifically consider this matter in any further debate that may proscribes drug activity. If it is such an urgent matter, if occur on this bill and, if not tonight perhaps tomorrow, it is of such import, then we would happily debate the or indeed between the houses, provide the house with matter. We would bring that matter on any time that the some advice. I quote from page 14 of Alert Digest government wanted because we treat seriously the No. 3: rights of tenants to have peaceful enjoyment of their property. The committee observes that a case is presently pending before the Court of Appeal that is expected to clarify the It was put to me in the briefing, ‘It might be about a extent of the legal obligations of public landlords under the charter and the ability of VCAT to provide a remedy for any Redfern riot’, which I could not quite understand. What breach of those obligations. does a Redfern riot have to do with the provisions that are simply not articulated here? This is a catch-all. It is The committee refers to Parliament for its consideration the a maybe proposition. ‘We are going to legislate for question of whether or not clause 3, by providing for a notice to vacate based on the tenant’s commission of a specified possible action for something possible that may occur illegal act on rented premises or in a common area, rather in the future’. than the tenant’s deliberate use of those premises for an illegal purpose, is compatible with the charter’s right against Mr Delahunty — It is a very serious offence. arbitrary interference in the home.

Mr WYNNE — No, it is not a serious offence That essentially summarises some of the outstanding because the government has not articulated it. I say to matters that SARC sought to address in its the minister at the table that if he had — — consideration of the bill. From the point of view of the former government, we very proudly stand before the Mr Delahunty — Indictable. house on what I think is an extraordinary track record of commitment to the provision of safe, affordable and Mr WYNNE — Indictable offences are a broad secure housing. This government — — sweep. I invite the minister to listen to the contribution of the member for Brunswick, who will follow me Mr Gidley interjected. shortly. She will, in her usual expert way, articulate for the minister what ‘indictable offences’ mean in this The ACTING SPEAKER (Dr Sykes) — Order! context. The member for Richmond should be allowed to continue without assistance from either government or The other aspect that I again point to is that there is no opposition members. evidentiary burden at all. There is no suggestion of an indictable offence with which a person would be

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Mr WYNNE — You’re the member for Mount Mr WYNNE — Indeed the member points out — Waverley, are you? —

The ACTING SPEAKER (Dr Sykes) — Order! I An honourable member interjected. ask that the member for Richmond address his comments through the Chair. Mr WYNNE — This is absolutely on the bill, because it is about the provision of safe and affordable Mr WYNNE — I think he is the member for Mount housing. Our government had, and the new government Waverley. He intervenes in this debate with clearly no has now inherited, the legacy of the magnificent knowledge of and no track record in this area. I am investment, through the partnership of both the federal sorry the member for Burwood is not here. Perhaps we and state governments, in the provision of in excess of can invite him back so I can teach him a little bit about 6500 units of housing that will be built both through the the crucial importance of public and social housing in base program of the Office of Housing and the funds the lives of some of the most vulnerable people in our from the federal stimulus package. Those projects will community. He got up by way of interjection this be built right across metropolitan Melbourne and morning to condemn one of the most important public regional Victoria as well. housing — — There are some in this chamber who prior to the Mr Weller interjected. election sought to oppose public and social housing for their own cheap, base political ends. It is to their great Mr WYNNE — You’re awake now, are you? The discredit that they chose to oppose and to talk down — Ashwood Chadstone — — or worse, to demonise — the construction of much-needed public and social housing. The ACTING SPEAKER (Dr Sykes) — Order! The member for Richmond should address his Mr McIntosh interjected. comments through the Chair and return to the bill without the assistance of government members. Mr WYNNE — Is that right? Says you. Cut it out.

Mr WYNNE — It is good to see that the member I summarise on behalf of the opposition that there are for Rodney has woken up. still some very significant matters that need to be addressed by the government, either in the debate in The ACTING SPEAKER (Dr Sykes) — Order! this house tonight or while the bill is between the The member for Richmond is to continue on the bill. houses. In particular there are matters of significant concern in relation to the application of new Mr WYNNE — We had a proud record of section 250A, in which there is no evidentiary hurdle achievement every year over the 11 years of our that has to be crossed by the director of housing before government. We will let the record show that every a matter can be brought before the Victorian Civil and year we were in government our commitment to the Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). I think that is a provision of housing was above and beyond our question that the minister at the table, the Minister for requirement under the commonwealth-state housing Corrections, ought to consider and take back to the agreement. The government does not like this because Minister for Housing for further consideration. it is the truth. We committed above and beyond our requirement under the commonwealth-state housing In relation to new section 250B, by what is frankly in agreement every single year that we were in office. my view the admission of the briefing officers, there is no public policy justification for this new section that is An honourable member interjected. before the house today. The Minister for Corrections Mr WYNNE — Tune in, brother. You will like this. suggested that the provisions of new section 250B will This was topped up by the extraordinary $500 million be achieved by way of regulation. Can we be assured that was provided by the previous Premier, that there will be a regulatory impact statement done for Mr Brumby, for the provision of public and social this? housing through previous budgets — the biggest An honourable member — There always is. commitment ever by a state government to public and social housing. Mr WYNNE — It is not always the case. There are other remedies available to the government, as An honourable member interjected. members well know. It can get a certificate from the Premier that exempts them. We would like some

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920 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 assurances that where an indictable offence is addressed According to the Age, he insisted that ‘people who push by way of regulation, there will be a regulatory impact drugs on their public housing neighbours were ruining statement that attaches to any such proposition. I scores of lives’. I think we would all approve of that. indicate that we reserve our position on this. We will He went on to say, ‘These people really should give up not oppose the bill in this house, but we reserve our their right to subsidised housing’, and I think we would right to craft amendments when the bill is between the all agree with that comment too. houses. We indicate to the minister that we may craft amendments to this bill to address some outstanding To me, this debate should centre on very simple matters, particularly in its application. principles. Are we going to allow a known loophole in the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 to remain? Are we I point out that in this bill we are dealing with one going to allow drug traffickers and associated offenders group of people — public housing residents. We do not to continue trafficking and not do anything about it? deal with a further group of people who are public Does this Parliament recognise and accept the housing residents who in fact live in social housing. We responsibility that we have to public housing tenants? do not deal in any way with the fact that, at least under Finally, do we really want children and families in the administration of the previous government, 50 per public housing to live in safety and grow up in a secure cent of residents came off the public housing waiting environment? They are the basic principles we are list to go into housing provided by housing talking about here. We on this side of the house believe associations. That is not addressed in this bill. We have those things are fundamental. The Parliament needs to essentially carved out one group of people. take up the challenge and resolve this problem. We are strong on crime on this side. We are prepared to put a I think these are serious questions, because they go to stake in the ground and make a stand on loopholes that the application of this amendment in a very practical need to be fixed. Once again the Baillieu government way. They go to the question of whether in fact the state has been left to fill the gaps left by the former seeks to take somebody’s property off them. They are government. in safe, secure and affordable housing. We do not resile from the fact that the practice of the previous The former minister acknowledged there was a problem government was that we took people to VCAT on the and in fact referred to the policy. He conducted a pilot basis of using their property for illegal purposes. We program. No doubt he considered it but in the end indicated to the minister that we were very happy to absolutely nothing of substance was done to solve the seek to address the question of this anomaly that had problem. That is what we are doing now — trying to arisen through the VCAT decision. solve the problem that the former government was well and truly aware of but failed to fix. It is our view that the way this has been addressed in proposed section 250A without an evidentiary burden Mr Eren — On a point of order, Acting Speaker, I raises serious questions. Proposed section 250B is a notice that the member is clearly attacking the catch-all provision that has no public policy rationale to opposition on previous policy and has drifted way off it. It is ill conceived by the government and is a matter the bill before the house. I ask you to call him back into we will consider while the bill is between houses, as we order. have not had the opportunity of a two-week layover to address it more thoroughly. The ACTING SPEAKER (Ms Beattie) — Order! There is no point of order, but the member will stick to Mr MORRIS (Mornington) — I was interested to the bill. note the summary of the comments of the member for Richmond where he indicated that at this stage the Mr Weller — Frivolous! opposition would not be opposing this bill but reserved its position. Obviously it has taken some time to come TheG ACTIN SPEAKER (Ms Beattie) — Order! I to grips with this legislation. It is interesting that at this do hope that was not a reflection on the Chair. stage the opposition position is support but that that Mr Weller — No. may change. It is instructive to the approach that has been taken by the former government, which is now in Mr MORRIS — Nor, I hope, was it a reflection on opposition. the matter before the house, because it is anything but a frivolous matter. Given the very limited time I have left I was interested to note in an article in the Age of I want to move on specifically to — — 21 March last year a quote from the member for Richmond, who was then the Minister for Housing.

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Mr Eren — Acting Speaker, I draw your attention rigorous scrutiny that these regulations have to go to the state of the house. through is still there. The process is still there. The regulations are still tabled in this house. Quorum formed. Finally, of course, the opportunity for disallowance Mr MORRIS — I have even less time now, and I remains. It is not correct to say that the Parliament does want specifically to address proposed sections 250A not have the opportunity to scrutinise any regulations and 250B. The current section 250 allows the director made under the act, but I would suggest that had this to evict a tenant if it can be demonstrated that the tenant clause in fact been part of the act when the issues were has used rented premises or permitted their use for a occurring last year, the former minister would have had specific illegal process. The alternative action is to deal the opportunity to act and to protect the affected with the matter under section 263. However, rather than families that he claims to want to protect. there being a termination notice period of 14 days under section 250, there is a termination period of 120 days or Briefly in conclusion, public housing tenants have the 4 months. Clearly that is not acceptable in this case. same right as every other citizen of Victoria to live in safety and to have their children grow up in a safe and The intent of this amendment to the act is to ensure the secure environment. These amendments will assist in safety, security and wellbeing of public housing that task, and I commend the bill to the house. tenants. Currently there is no provision that allows the director to evict a tenant who engaged in trafficking, Ms GARRETT (Brunswick) — I rise to speak on manufacturing or cultivation of prohibited drugs in a the Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public common area. That is the crux of the problem. It is Housing) Bill 2011. I do so with great privilege and about the common areas — hallways, stairwells, car pleasure. Supporting the most vulnerable in our parks, playgrounds and those sorts of areas. community and providing safe and appropriate Additionally, as this relates in part to the comments by accommodation for those requiring public housing is an SARC (Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee) absolute foundation of a just and civilised society and is there is a difficulty in that it is necessary to determine if at the heart of Labor’s commitment to social justice and an illegal activity constitutes use of premises, and the equality of opportunity. Doing this requires significant question is whether the premises were integral to and investment of resources and time, a caring and facilitated the commission of a particular offence. innovative approach and a commitment across governments to coordinated and targeted service That is where the case that was referred to earlier fell delivery. over. In that case the director applied to evict a tenant. Some of the offences were said to have occurred on Clearly the bill before the house in part aims to deal common property, and in fact the Victorian Civil and with the recent Victorian Civil and Administrative Administrative Tribunal member referred to that Tribunal decision. That is important, and that has been difficulty in the decision. Clearly the current legislation acknowledged by this side of the house as being an does not work. SARC addressed the issue and the important thing to do. The question for us on this side bottom line is that to include the element of use in of the house is whether the bill before the house goes rented premises would undermine the intent of much further than is required to deal with that recent government policy. The concept of use is not relevant decision and what the implications of that may be. in the context of these policy objectives. As members are aware, caring for and advancing the I turn briefly to the issue of proposed section 250B. I interests of public housing tenants is of particular was interested to hear the member for Richmond say concern to those of us who represent inner city that in relation to 250B there was no evidentiary communities. Many public housing tenants reside in burden. In fact proposed section 250B(3) indicates that our communities and add so much to those the director may only give a tenant notice if the tenant communities. As members are also aware, and as the has been convicted or found guilty of that offence. I do member for Richmond pointed out, the record not think there is an issue of evidentiary burden; it is investment in and support for social housing that there as subclause (3) of proposed section 250B. occurred under the previous government was one of the hallmarks of that government. In addition to that, all appeal rights remain intact. All the checks and all the balances are there despite the With the energy and passion of the former housing points alleged by the member for Richmond. A minister, the member for Richmond, and the regulatory impact statement is still required and the commitment across government to provide housing for

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922 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 vulnerable Victorians and to tackle homelessness, great What this bill does — and those on the other side of the strides were made. These included, as the member for house should take note — is remove that step of a Richmond pointed out, billions of dollars of investment proper process of charging. It allows the director of in new homes for families living on low incomes; the housing to make decisions — — biggest social housing program since the 1956 Olympics; the largest single commitment in social An honourable member — Section 250B(3). housing by any state government; the provision of 4500 new social housing dwellings in Victoria, in Ms GARRETT — Let’s go to that, Sir. That partnership with the federal government; and absolute proposed section says that nothing in the bill should be cutting-edge approaches in social housing and public taken as stopping the director of housing from acting housing, including innovative programs like the whether or not the individual has been found guilty of neighbourhood renewal program. an offence. All of us in this house and in this community should have some serious questions to raise Ms Miller interjected. when our fundamental rule of law is threatened. We have a process under that rule of law for evidence to be Ms GARRETT — You would learn something if mounted against an individual and for an independent you would listen, my friend. authority to make a decision as to whether that person should be charged and should face the courts and be This is what a comprehensive approach to tackling able to defend their innocence. homelessness and social housing is about. We are yet to see such an approach from those who now occupy the The concern that we on this side of the house have is government benches, and we will be interested to see that this legislation threatens that process in a what the budget may throw up in terms of reducing fundamental way, because to remove someone’s access waiting lists for public housing. to a roof over their head is an extraordinary sanction, and this bill proposes to allow that sanction to take Members on this side of the house are committed to place on the reasonable belief of the director of housing changing lives by providing proper housing and and the giving of 14 days notice. Our entire system is delivering services to the most vulnerable in our designed to prevent individuals from making those community, and we will support measures that assist in sorts of decisions without going through an entire ensuring the safety, security and enjoyment of public process of checks and balances. The fact of the matter housing tenants. That is why the member for Richmond is that the legislation as it has been put forward is so said that while we are inclined to support the bill that is thin and so quiet and relegates so much to regulation before the house we do have some concerns about its that what we are debating goes to the very heart of the current form and the consequences — perhaps rule of law. unintended — it may have in operation. Honourable members interjecting. As members are aware, the bill will amend the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 to create a power for The ACTING SPEAKER (Ms Beattie) — Order! the director of housing to give 14 days notice to vacate There is too much noise in the chamber. to a tenant who is involved in one of two types of activity: the cultivation, manufacture, supply or Ms GARRETT — I ask those on the other side of distribution of prohibited drugs, or indictable offences. the house to listen to this. Anyone who has anything to do with indictable offences will know that the list is very long. This is Honourable members interjecting. where, as the honourable member for Richmond The ACTING SPEAKER (Ms Beattie) — Order! pointed out, we get into some tricky territory in relation The Minister for Sport and Recreation! to the fundamentals of our legal system and the protection of justice in this state. What will the Ms GARRETT — It is in order to protect not only indictable offences on the list be? What will they look the rights of individual tenants and the integrity of the like? And who is going to determine whether or not public housing system but also our system of justice someone has engaged in an indictable offence? that we continue to uphold and respect, particularly in this house where we are charged with that obligation. At the moment in the normal way under the rule of law We must have the appropriate checks and balances on the Director of Public Prosecutions would charge the presumption of innocence and natural justice, and somebody with an indictable offence as the Director of we must have clarity about the types of incidents that Public Prosecutions saw fit on the evidence available. 250B is designed to tackle and how in practice this

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 923 would operate. For example, what does reasonable detail is provided to the best ability of the government belief entail for the director of housing? What are the and that the government allay any fears that what we criteria? What evidence is required? What resources are doing is providing carte blanche by taking power will she be able to access to inform her view? Normally away from what would normally be the role of the if you were seeking to do this, you would go to the Director of Public Prosecutions and putting it in the Director of Public Prosecutions and there would be an hands of the director of housing. I ask: under what evidentiary hurdle that would have to be met. criteria would this happen, for what reason and what will the outcomes be? We on this side of the house absolutely and fundamentally respect the right of public housing Mr SOUTHWICK (Caulfield) — I rise to speak on tenants to safe and secure enjoyment of their homes. It the Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public is outrageous, it is ill informed and it absolutely, Housing) 2011. We have heard from the circus tonight. fundamentally whittles away our very rule of law and It is evident that we on this side of the house went to the the fundamental justice by which we all stand that we election with a very clear message. That message was on this side must stand here asking for the right of that we were going to go hard on crime, we were going public housing tenants to have safe and secure to protect families and we were going to protect each enjoyment of their property. That is why unprecedented and every Victorian. On the other side we have heard investment in public and social housing and innovative nothing but ‘soft’ — soft on crime and an attitude of programs occurred under the previous government. looking after the drug dealers. That is very unfortunate.

We have heard nothing from the other side of the house Mr Wynne — On a point of order, Acting Speaker, about how they propose to open the door to people in the member has made some nice introductory our vulnerable communities. We ask that more comments and that is fine, but how about we get onto information is provided. We are potentially going down the bill and hear less of the rhetoric? a slippery slope in relation to the rule of law that protects us all. All we ask for, and all the honourable The ACTING SPEAKER (Ms Beattie) — Order! I member for Richmond has asked for, is that we get ask the member for Caulfield to continue, on the bill. more information about what is a fundamental change. This is not just about dealing with an issue at the Mr SOUTHWICK — It is very clear that this bill is Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal. This is all about protecting vulnerable families. The Baillieu opening the door to — — government supports the most vulnerable Victorians, and some of the most vulnerable Victorians live in Mr McIntosh — We do not like drug traffickers. public housing, as the member for Richmond would quite rightly know. What we are hearing about from the Ms GARRETT — Don’t you? opposition tonight is the protection of people who live in public housing, those who we on this side of the The ACTING SPEAKER (Ms Beattie) — Order! house also care about. In fact we probably care more The member for Brunswick has the call. about those people than opposition members do, because we are looking at doing something about this Ms GARRETT — What I like and what I think we issue. The opposition had a long time in government to should all like is that we honour and acknowledge the look into this issue and do some trials. rule of law and the system within which democracy flourishes. If you are going to attack the rule of law and I draw the attention of the house to an article in the Age the way in which our system flourishes, then you had of 21 March 2010. It is very interesting. In his speech better provide some serious evidence for doing so. You the member for Richmond spoke about the concern of had better provide more than has been provided. people being evicted when they had not even been charged. However, in this article in the Age he said that I assume all members want public housing tenants to in his term as minister he ran a pilot program in Fitzroy have safe and secure enjoyment of their homes, but I to see how this would work and that rather than waiting would absolutely emphasise that the record of those on for residents to be charged by police or found guilty of this side of the house is far better than that of those on trafficking by the court the former government planned the other side in providing social housing and providing to proceed with this. The member for Richmond was for those who require social housing — that is, those quite concerned about the issue at the time he was the who are vulnerable in our community. What we ask is Minister for Housing. Now that he is sitting on the that the same courtesy now be extended by the other side of the house he has swapped his position; he government to ensure that we are not on a slippery has changed sides. We have heard tonight that the slope, that we are not undermining the rule of law, that

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924 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 opposition is supporting the bill and it may not be government, although given the actions of the supporting the bill. It is just like it was when the opposition it seems we will be here for a long time — opposition was in government; opposition members will be able to move swiftly if problems in housing have no idea what they are doing and no idea where estates other than drug offences become significant. they are going. That is what this bill seeks to do.

The bill we have put before this house is very clear. New regulations under proposed section 250B will not What it seeks to do is tidy up the loopholes and the be made lightly and will need to pass a rigorous mess. New section 250A, inserted by clause 3 of the regulatory impact statement process and satisfy the bill, specifies behaviours that can see the tenant human rights charter as well as face parliamentary evicted — for instance, if they engage in drug scrutiny, which may lead to the tabling of a trafficking, supply or cultivation of drugs on the disallowance motion. We are not just making laws and property. However, if a tenant happens to be doing changing things willy-nilly. The law will apply to illegal activities such as drug trafficking off their indictable offences — I underline that: indictable property — that is, in the common areas, in the offences. They are serious offences. The laws will not corridors, in the playgrounds or in the areas where these apply to just leaving your laundry at home; they are for vulnerable people live — under the current law we indictable offences. They are for serious crimes. We have to wait 120 days before we can do anything about have to ensure that our families are protected. We have it. That is 120 days for those drug dealers to continue to to ensure that the most vulnerable are protected, and push drugs and make vulnerable families even more that is what this bill seeks to do. The new provisions vulnerable. and any operational guidelines relating to them will be firm but fair, and that is what the government has This bill seeks to tidy up the law and make it intended from the very first day it came to office. Every consistent — and it seeks to protect families. It seeks to single one of our policies has been firm but fair. Our protect the most vulnerable, and that is what we are policies are to ensure that we are protecting individuals about. If someone were dealing drugs on the common and the rights of each and every Victorian. property, under section 263 of the principal act they would be given at least 120 days notice of eviction if no Proposed sections 250A and 250B both state that the specific reason was given. Imagine what someone can director ‘may’ — not ‘shall’ — remove a tenant in the do in 120 days. We have to do something about it, and case of an illegal act in a common area. It is a that is what we are seeking to do by changing the law. discretionary power. It does not mean it will be used all the time. The discretionary power will allow the I want to relay a story I was involved in. It occurred in director to make the decision as to whether there is the my local area where we have a child-care centre potential for someone to be harmed. The director will underneath some commission flats in South Yarra. One make a decision on a case-by-case basis, taking into of the drug dealers stormed into the common area and account all relevant factors, including the consequences into the child-care centre. They upturned the whole for the residents and their families. Any decisions will child-care centre and put the kids, the carers and other be based on hard evidence of a prescribed illegal families at risk. When that sort of behaviour happens activity, especially charges laid by police and facts the kids are traumatised for life. This bill seeks to deal supporting those charges. with that. The crux of this matter is that the law-abiding tenants We have heard tonight about indictable offences. The have nothing to fear from this bill. If you are not doing other side of the house is concerned about what we anything wrong, then you should have no problem at all might seek to do in the future under the bill. This bill with this bill. That is the crux of this bill. It is about will give us the opportunity to move in quickly when protecting families, not about protecting drug traffickers there is a problem that we need to rectify. The member and making people scared out of their wits. It is about for Richmond quite rightly pointed to — although he ensuring that if you are in public housing, you are going was a bit unsure of the riots he was alluding to — the to be looked after and not scared out of your wits by Redfern riots. We all saw at that time that if we do not drug traffickers. If the opposition had been serious have a chance to repeal a law and to put something in about this when it was in office, it would have done place to fix a problem, then unfortunately we are going something about it. But, as per usual, it has been all talk to put people at risk for a long time. That is what this and no action. That is unfortunate, and that is why we law seeks to do; it seeks to tidy up the legislation and are sitting on this side of the house and Labor members ensure that the government is being responsible. It will are over there — because they did not act. We are about also ensure that future governments — not just our

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 925 to change that. That is what this bill and every other bill However, as covered by the minister in the is about. second-reading speech:

I am confident that we will make a real change and … the director may only evict the tenant if the rented make housing facilities safe. We will do that by premises was integral to and facilitated the commission of the illegal activity, as opposed to the rented premises being the evicting drug traffickers and allowing vulnerable scene of a crime. members of our community to get on with their lives. This has been the subject of some discussion, Mr NOONAN (Williamstown) — I am certainly particularly around the Victorian Civil and pleased to have the opportunity to join the debate on the Administrative Tribunal matter, which came to Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) prominence earlier this year. VCAT made a ruling and Bill 2011, and in doing so I want to place on record my some comments were made around that ruling in respect for the member for Richmond. Various relation to a convicted heroin dealer. The VCAT deputy comments have been made in this house about the president, Heather Lambrick, ruled that the director of member and his contribution as the previous Minister housing had failed to prove that the tenant had used his for Housing, but the record demonstrates that the flat for illegal purposes, even though one of the deals member for Richmond oversaw an enormous was carried out in the tenant’s doorway. That is what investment in public and social housing during his time this bill aims to deal with. as minister. The former minister might correct me if I am wrong, but in 2007–08 he plunged $500 million Whilst this is an important issue, we have to be careful into public and social housing, which is the single as a Parliament not to overstate the significance of this largest commitment by any state government. It was particular issue. The absolute majority of public part of a large project in collaboration with the housing tenants are extremely good, law-abiding commonwealth to provide 4500 dwellings, with the citizens. I know this because I have a couple of public centrepiece being the Elizabeth Street Common Ground housing estates in my electorate of Williamstown. project. It is worth putting that on the record. Residents tell me that illegal activity at their towers is as unwelcome as it is anywhere in our community. In relation to this particular bill, according to the minister’s second-reading speech its key objective is to However, I was pleased to see that in the minister’s allow the director of housing to evict a tenant from their second-reading speech he indicated that drug rental premises after a 14-day notice period if the trafficking and manufacturing only takes place through director reasonably believes that the tenant has illegally the actions of a very small minority of residents. We carried out one of a range of acts on the premises or in a need to be careful not to perpetuate a negative image of common area. There is some conjecture about what public housing tenants when discussing this bill or of ‘reasonably believes’ might mean. It is worth putting on unnecessarily over sensationalising. record also that the second-reading speech and the statement of compatibility make it clear that it will not Last year, during the course of the public hearings of be necessary for the director to wait for criminal the Family Community Development Committee prosecution to occur before taking this action. There is inquiry into the adequacy of future directions of public broad debate about the merits of the director having that housing in Victoria, the former Victorian Civil and capacity, because it will put power in the director’s Administrative Tribunal president, Justice Kevin Bell, hands to essentially become judge and jury over each of confirmed just how few residents are evicted from the public housing tenants in the state. public housing properties each year. During that hearing in Melbourne on 9 February 2010, Justice Bell As the member for Richmond has stated, there are provided some statistics in relation to cases of specific reasons for the director using that power under possession by the director of housing. He said: proposed section 250A. They are trafficking or attempting to traffic a drug of dependence, supplying a Actual possession orders between 1 July 2008 and 30 June 2009 — and I will round down — were 2200. The majority drug of dependence to a person under 18 years, of those applications were rent arrears. Of course, only possessing a preparatory item with the intention of 580 warrants of possession were issued, and of those only using the item for the purpose of drug trafficking, 110 were executed. possessing without lawful excuse a tablet press or precursor chemical and cultivating or attempting to Justice Bell went on to explain just how many of those cultivate a narcotic plant. There are provisions in the matters were settled during discussions inside and current act which grant powers to the director to evict a outside of the tribunal. He also made a very strong tenant after at least 14 days notice has been received. point that the overwhelming number of cases referred

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926 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 to VCAT related to unresolved rental arrears matters. public housing tenants, and it is about ensuring Other matters that he touched on were really about appropriate supports exist. tenants trashing properties or in other cases perhaps being a regular disturbance or nuisance to their In conclusion, whilst the opposition will not be neighbours. There was no mention from Justice Bell opposing this bill, we do, as indicated by the members during the course of those hearings that the use of drugs for Richmond and Brunswick, have some problems in or drug manufacturing or trafficking was a significant relation to proposed section 250B, which, as I said from source of regular possession orders. That does not for a the outset, grants fairly broad powers to the director of moment suggest that there are no problems, but it is a housing as they are stated in this bill. One would never reminder that we need to retain a sense of perspective argue that the safety of residents on an estate must be a about this issue. priority, but as I have said a number of times, there must be a balancing against the rights of individuals. Before moving away from Justice Bell’s contribution to What we are seeking here as an opposition would be the parliamentary committee hearing that day, he also some further information about the intent of this clause made a very strong point about the impact of eviction and how it might be used, such as what conditions on the people who are evicted and the role of the justice would constitute a problem serious enough to require system in this process. He stated: further intervention through regulation.

There is nothing positive about worrying to death about Let us not forget that in the absolute majority of cases eviction. That impacts on family care, it impacts on personal where evictions from public housing occur, the evicted wellbeing, it impacts on family life; it has so many consequences. So it is an aspect surely of justice itself if we individuals will end up homeless, and that will place can reach those people and build their capacity to negotiate an pressure on homelessness service providers. These outcome and a solution with their landlord, then we have matters should not be taken lightly; they need to be restored them to the ordinary … life where they can enjoy dealt with and it is incumbent on the government to wellbeing and make a positive contribution to the community. provide some better information so that we can be That was a very constructive and thought-provoking better informed. aspect of the committee’s inquiry. It recognised the Dr SYKES (Benalla) — I rise to contribute to the revolving door syndrome that can often take place in Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) our justice system. It also highlighted one of the key Bill 2011 and, as other speakers before me have policy tensions within government in this homelessness indicated, this bill implements the Baillieu-Ryan area, and that is the potential of evicting people into government’s public commitment to amend the situations of homelessness as opposed to preventing Residential Tenancies Act 1997 to allow the director of homelessness in the first instance. That is a policy housing to address illegal drug activity in public tension that will continue to play out for this housing and particularly allows for a tenant to be government, but it is an important reminder that there evicted from a rented premise after 14 days if the needs to be a balance in this system. director reasonably believes that the tenant has illegally I recently spoke to Bryan Lipmann, chief executive carried out a number of activities mentioned by officer of Wintringham, who is known to the member previous speakers. for Richmond and who is a highly respected figure in This bill is very important to me because the issue of the social housing sector. Bryan gave evidence to the public housing and the associated concerns that it committee last year. Bryan’s central point about this generates is a significant issue in the electorate of issue is that evictions could potentially be avoided if a Benalla. We have a number of public housing different approach is taken by tenancy staff. Last year, communities in the electorate: in Bright, Myrtleford, in giving his evidence to the inquiry, Bryan explained Mount Beauty, Eildon, Murchison, Longwood and Wintringham’s approach when he said: Benalla itself. I note that the member for Richmond, … the approach that Wintringham would take is not to get who has raised a number of concerns about the bill, that man evicted. It would be to say, ‘Why is this man so agreed with the propositions behind the bill, if I angry? Why is this man who has clearly got a psych issue correctly paraphrase him, he said that there are a small been placed without supports?’. number of people engaged in drug trafficking that ruin The theme here is about building relationships between many other people’s lives; they absolutely ruin the tenants and landlords in order to avoid evictions. That is amenity for the decent folk who live in public housing. a very important issue in relation to any matter that is The vast majority of people are entitled to safe, brought before this Parliament in relation to evicting affordable and secure housing.

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 927

I am sure all of us share that view. In spite of the passport from poverty to prosperity. We have some animated exchanges in some of the debate preceding very good educational facilities in Benalla, particularly my contribution, I would have to say there would be at the Benalla 31 Primary School, which has made a real least 80 to 90 per cent agreement on what we are trying effort to connect with these young people. Through the to achieve — that is, to provide safe, affordable and You Can Do It! program and other means of providing secure housing for many people. self-esteem and building resilience in young people we are going to help these young people avoid falling into With that in mind, as the member for Benalla, I have the trap of being caught up in undesirable activities had quite a few approaches made to me by people such as drug trafficking et cetera. living in public housing who have raised their concerns about alleged drug trafficking activity and other forms I am saying that this legislation is part of an overall of antisocial behaviour. The concern is that these sorts package to help our people living in public housing to of activities carried out by these people frustrate efforts become part of our community, to grow as people, to on the part of the community to provide safe and secure contribute to our community and to have rewarding and housing and to provide means for people in those enjoyable lives. I picked up that the member for communities to connect with the broader community, Brunswick was starting to lead us towards a suggestion particularly the community of Benalla. By way of of class war and the idea that members on this side of example we have the Rose City Christian Life Centre, the house did not appreciate the issues affecting people whose staff for a number of years went to Benalla west in public housing. In response to the member for to pick up young people and take them to the centre. Brunswick I say that many members on this side of the Pastor Daryl Marshall and people such as John and house have come from humble beginnings and Jenny Varcoe would interact with the young people and backgrounds — for example, the Treasurer was raised give them a decent meal, some guidance, a little touch in a Bairnsdale public housing estate, and he is very of religion and a big dose of love. Those young people proud to talk about that. Many of us on this side share were being given support and encouragement to make such humble beginnings, and we want to make sure we something of their lives and were made to feel part of provide support for people in the public housing our broader Benalla community. situation as we do in the broader community, because we are as one. The member for Richmond and others have raised concerns about aspects of the legislation, and I say in I make a point in relation to the protection mechanisms response that the proof will be in the pudding. We will introduced by the previous government — the charter see how it plays out. Members on this side of the house of human rights. As I understand it, when it was have indicated there are safeguards in place. We will reviewed it was found that the good intention of the see over time whether the safeguards we have put in charter of human rights — to protect vulnerable place achieve the intended outcome we all want. The people — was in fact being abused and that many of intention of this bill is, again, to complement other the beneficiaries of that well-intended approach and efforts we need to have in place to ensure our legislation were in fact criminals and others using it to vulnerable people and those who may be having a frustrate the dispensing of justice. We need to therefore battle for a range of reasons can get on with their lives make sure that our good intention is backed up with and have that safe and secure housing. common-sense, practical legislation. This bill before the house is an attempt to do that; it provides a practical In Benalla we have a number of other activities such as solution to the problem which was recognised by the the Tomorrow Today Foundation’s efforts to engage previous Minister for Housing, by enabling prompt with the parents of young people, including parents of dealing with the minority who are causing grief in children up to 2 years old, to ensure they get support public housing situations. This bill provides people with and stimulation so they can break out of the cycle of the ability to evict tenants in 14 days rather than in poverty that sometimes exists. We also have a need for 120 days as under the current legislation. Absolute outreach workers to connect with people and provide mayhem could be delivered within 120 days if the other services people need to grow as people and to offenders chose to do so. learn about proper health and nutrition. We also have Foodshare groups such as the one in Benalla run by In supporting this bill, I note there is a large degree of Rhonda and her team which provides a fantastic service shared desire for a good outcome for our people in with the support of many parts of the community. public housing. The real point of debate is whether this piece of legislation is going to provide powers that may In the longer term we need to make sure we provide be abused or powers that are going to achieve the people with a sound education, because education is the intended outcome. This side of the house, as members

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928 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011 will see over the next four years of government, will public housing. They related to maintenance issues, deliver practical, common-sense solutions to a wide they related to appropriate accommodation for large range of problems. This will be one problem where we families and they related to support they needed from will deliver a practical, common-sense solution that will either the Office of Housing or the Department of ensure that everyone in Victoria has the opportunity to Human Services with regard to substance issues or have safe and secure housing — a roof over their head. mental health issues and to other family issues they Those who need help and support regarding drug were dealing with. All these matters intertwine and traffickers will get that protection through this relate to some of the reasons why people require the legislation, and if they need other protection and support of public housing. support, whether it be health services, financial counselling, education or a broader range of things, we Whether it is through the residents groups or through will deliver that. I commend the bill to the house. the Wednesday night barbecues at the housing estate in West Heidelberg led by the Exodus Community Mr CARBINES (Ivanhoe) — I am pleased to speak through Brother Harry Prout and Sister Sally Bradley, on the Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public there are many in our local community who seek to Housing) Bill 2011. What do I know of these matters improve the lives of residents of public housing in West and what involvement and interaction do I have with Heidelberg. public housing communities in order to make an informed contribution to this matter? I live in the Cases relating to drug trafficking in public housing Olympic Village in West Heidelberg where more than have been raised with me by local residents. Often they 50 per cent of the 3081 postcode area consists of public are concerned about raising those issues because they or social housing. My neighbours are public housing fear repercussions, just as they fear raising issues of tenants. As a Banyule city councillor for five years, maintenance on their properties and just as they fear at having been elected twice by the West Heidelberg times raising matters in relation to what type of community, I worked with the community to raise what accommodation they have because of their concerns was critical to local residents to improve their about repercussions and what level of support they will neighbourhood in relation to the behaviour of their get from the Office of Housing or from their neighbours. community.

This bill aspires to improve the community and the Labor does not oppose the bill, but the concerns raised neighbourhoods of public housing tenants, and it is that by people in my electorate of Ivanhoe relate to their link that I want to relate my comments to. My interaction with the Office of Housing. They relate to electorate office is in the mall, which is in the heart of their desire and need to be treated with respect by that the West Heidelberg community and the public housing office, to have their maintenance issues attended to and estates. But what do the residents make of the proposed to have their priorities in relation to their local changes that the government has put forward? What do community dealt with, including other housing issues. they talk to me about with regard to their public These are the sorts of things that people constantly raise housing? We chip away together on maintenance with me as their priorities. The number of people who issues. We work together with neighbourhood renewal, come to talk to me about drug trafficking in the public which is a fine and lasting program and an initiative of housing estates in West Heidelberg does not bear the previous Labor government, to give residents of mentioning. public housing an opportunity to have a stronger voice and a say in their neighbourhoods to make sure that I am looking forward to hearing from the government there is greater accountability from state and local about what further investment and support it is going to governments and the agencies of government in the provide to residents of public housing to change their Department of Human Services and the Office of circumstances in relation to where they live and the Housing to provide a better standard of support and neighbourhoods and communities they live in. This is advocacy for those residents who live in public an important issue. The Labor Party does not oppose housing. That work continues to this day, and I look the bill. We seek to support these arrangements to forward to some ongoing contributions and strengthen the communities in West Heidelberg and all commitments from the government in relation to the communities in relation to making sure that they have work that neighbourhood renewal does in so many an appropriate and respectable place to live. But communities in Victoria. ultimately the improvement that is going to result in people who live in public housing having strengthened The first few constituents who came to see me in my those communities — — office after my election raised matters in relation to

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The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The time As I said, there is strong support for the regional rail appointed under standing orders for me to interrupt the link from many in the community, and now that the business of the house has now arrived. The honourable project has been confirmed as going ahead it is member may continue his speech when the matter is important that the minister immediately have his next before the Chair. department talk to Mr McGregor and his company to understand their needs in terms of appropriate planning Business interrupted pursuant to standing orders. for him to find a new site in a smooth and speedy manner. I appreciate that these matters are difficult and challenging, but I am sure the minister would agree ADJOURNMENT with me that 15 jobs are important and that providing The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The question is: services to the rail industry is important. I hope he takes that matter into account. That the house do now adjourn. Cycling: Tour of Gippsland Rail: regional link Mr BLACKWOOD (Narracan) — I wish to raise a Ms ALLAN (Bendigo East) — This evening I raise matter for the Minister for Tourism and Major Events. a matter for the attention of the Minister for Public The action I seek is for her to provide funding to assist Transport. The action I seek is for the minister to Caribou Publications with the staging and marketing of provide assurances about the future of a company that this year’s Tour of Gippsland cycling event. is owned by a constituent in my electorate of Bendigo East in relation to the regional rail link project. Tourism Victoria has financially supported the ongoing development of the Tour of Gippsland since 2005. It Today we were very pleased to see that the Minister for has supported the Tour of the Murray River since 2000, Public Transport was finally dragged kicking and and in 2009 it also provided support for the Tour of screaming to the table in support of Labor’s regional Geelong. All three tours form part of the Scody Cup rail link project. This is terrific. However, I raise this series, and the grand final of this year’s series will be issue in all seriousness because besides being large this held in Tasmania from 4 to 9 October. The 2011 Lakes project also has implications for existing businesses on Oil Tour of Gippsland will be held from 27 to 31 July. the rail line, including a company that is owned by This year’s course is still to be finalised, but last year it Graham McGregor called G&V Equipment passed through my electorate of Narracan. Maintenance. The company has 15 staff members who provide on-train repairs and carry out repairs on the In 2010 the Tour of Gippsland attracted 159 riders, of terminal within the North Melbourne railway station which 46 per cent were from regional Victoria, 47 per precinct. cent were from interstate and 7 per cent were from overseas. Organisers estimate that 200 staff members Mr McGregor came to me because he is concerned that and support crew were involved, and the average length to date he has not been consulted in any way by any of of stay in the region was five nights. The economic the groups involved in planning the regional rail link. benefit derived from the Tour of Gippsland was spread He is concerned that the needs of his staff are being across numerous municipalities throughout Gippsland. overlooked. The issue that Mr McGregor has is that he This provided a significant boost to local economies needs to have a transition period. He supports the and protected local jobs at a time when many of these regional rail link project, like many people in central communities and businesses were recovering from the Victoria do. However, he operates from a site that may Black Saturday fires. be needed for that project, and what he is seeking is to work with the government, VicTrack and the The marketing of the event is aimed at increasing Department of Transport in particular to ensure that visitation from intrastate and interstate markets and will there is an appropriate transition period so that he and include television advertising with nightly news the 15 staff he employs — and of course the services highlights, rider interviews on WIN TV and a national they provide to the rail industry — are able to be teams documentary series screening on SBS. Promotion transitioned to a new site in an appropriate way. He is will also occur in metropolitan and regional newspaper concerned that as he is close to the Southern Cross editorials and advertisements and through the station end of the works there will not be adequate time distribution of programs and event posters across for an appropriate site to be identified and then regional Victoria and visitor information centres. appropriately serviced to enable his business to relocate Online access to details of the event will be available there. through Cycling Australia, Cycling Victoria and the

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‘Cycle Sport News’ and ‘Cyclingnews’ websites. There treated with sensitivity. I hope we are now seeing the will also be public relations activities, banners and end of the uncertainty that they have had to live with poster signage. since the government decided to put this commitment under review. I welcome the fact that the government I encourage the minister to maintain support for this has finally seen the light on this issue, thanks to the year’s event in Gippsland in particular but also the pressure of the community and the Labor Party. I Geelong and Murray legs of the Scody Cup series. welcome the decision, but I ask that the minister deliver Once again, this will demonstrate the strong support the on those stations. coalition is providing for regional tourism right across Victoria. Emergency services: Echuca

Rail: regional link Mr WELLER (Rodney) — I wish to raise a matter for the attention of the Minister for Police and Ms THOMSON (Footscray) — The matter I raise is Emergency Services. An exciting proposal has been for the Minister for Public Transport, and it concerns developed to establish an emergency services precinct the regional rail link project. The action I seek from the at Echuca to accommodate the State Emergency minister relates to the impact of this project on the inner Service unit, Ambulance Victoria, the Echuca search west. Whilst I welcome the fact that the government and rescue squad and the Country Fire Authority has finally come to its senses and is supporting the rail brigade at the one site. link project, I am very concerned that the commitments made by the previous government to upgrades to the As a first step the project would see the Echuca SES Sunshine and Footscray railway stations, the proposed unit relocate from its existing site at the Campaspe new station at West Footscray and the road separations, shire’s depot to the north-western corner of the Echuca two of which are at Anderson Road, be met and that the South Recreation Reserve. The relocation is necessary upgrades be properly done. as the SES unit has outgrown its current site and the facilities are no longer suitable in terms of space and There was a lot of consultation with people in the inner amenity. A master plan has been developed by the SES west about the need for an upgrade of the Sunshine and detailing how all emergency service units could be Footscray stations, and we were expecting there would accommodated at the one site into the future and how it be first-class upgrades to those stations as well as a is possible to accommodate the needs of all parties and brand-new station at West Footscray together with road achieve a layout whereby facilities such as entrance separations at intersections with Anderson Road. This ways, car parking and outside training areas are shared would ensure safety on Anderson Road. It would also to help reduce costs to all organisations in the long ensure the safe management of traffic and that the trains term. now going through that area would have minimum impact. The project would cost $290 000 and lay the foundation for a state-of-the-art emergency services precinct in The action I seek from the minister is that he meets the Echuca. The Echuca SES has committed $37 500 of its commitments of the previous government in relation to own funds to the project, and $82 500 has been secured the quality of the renovations and the works that will be from the state government’s community safety done at Sunshine station, which include the complete emergency support program. The SES has also renovation of all security and the placement of submitted an application for $100 000 to the state underpasses, that we see a full upgrade of Footscray government’s volunteer emergency services equipment station, including the escalators as well as additional program, and the Campaspe shire has agreed to elevators and that we see the building of the new West contribute $50 000 from council funds in support of this Footscray station. application. This is in addition to the $20 000 the shire allocated to the project last year. The population of the inner west is growing, just as the population right throughout the west is growing. The I extend an invitation to the minister to visit Echuca in use of public transport is growing, and the provision of the very near future to meet with members of the quality stations for people who are commuting is of Echuca SES unit and other relevant local emergency critical importance. The action that I seek is that the service units and to discuss this proposal in further minister meet the former government’s commitment to detail. I further ask that the minister give serious provide the best possible standards at stations for the consideration to committing funds to this exciting people of the inner west in my electorate of Footscray. I project to enable it to proceed as soon as possible. also ask that people who are adversely affected be

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Emergency services in the seat of Rodney suffered electorate stakeholders with an interest in works to from serious underfunding during 11 years of Labor’s protect the foreshore and a range of foreshore assets. incompetence and neglect, and I look forward to During the last 18 years or so a number of beach working with the minister to ensure their interests and renourishment works have been undertaken around Port needs are protected in the future. Phillip Bay. There has also been loss or serious erosion of a number of beaches, starting with beaches near Port Schools: Tarneit Phillip heads, then in Blairgowrie and in Aspendale and Sandringham, both near Ricketts Point as well as at Mr PALLAS (Tarneit) — The matter I wish to raise Edward Street, Royal Avenue, Hampton Beach and a is for the Minister for Education. The action I am number of other locations around the bay. seeking is for the government to make a commitment to the Wyndham community that it will take immediate In the 1990s the Association of Bayside Municipalities action to continue to provide for educational needs in triaged the works to be undertaken, and in the late the growth area of Wyndham and build a new P–9 1990s the then Liberal government allocated recurrent school in Tarneit. funding for beach renourishment works. Unfortunately this program was not continued in the earlier part of this Wyndham is Victoria’s fastest growing municipality. It century, and it took a while for beach protection works is also Australia’s fastest growing municipality. It is to be allocated around the bay. This led to delays that growing at a rate of over 8 per cent, with over saw the undercutting and erosion of a number of 12 000 people a year making this local government area beaches in the Sandringham electorate. There was a their home. Tarneit is a suburb that has seen significant delay regarding the protection of the beach exponential growth over the last few years, and it is north of Red Bluff. extremely important that with this growth we continue to plan ahead. In the present case there is the proposed installation of a groyne to anchor the sand at Half Moon Bay. There are In the suburb of Tarneit, which is north of Sayers Road a number of stakeholder interests to be advanced and and to the west of Derrimut Road, we are seeing protected in that region. Attempts have been made to phenomenal growth. Wyndham City Council statistics ascertain the perspectives of the Black Rock Yacht show that seven babies every day are born to Wyndham Club, the Half Moon Bay Surf Life Saving Club, a mums, which equates to two prep classes per week. number of the owners of bathing boxes along the foreshore and a local business. It is apparent from the The exponential growth in the Tarneit area meant that consultation to date that some stakeholders do not have during the election campaign the Brumby Labor a formal view as to the proposed works and that some government announced plans to build a new P–9 school of the other stakeholders are opposed to the works. I behind the senior campus currently under construction would like to arrange a deputation to meet with the in Leakes Road. The surrounding primary schools, such minister to clarify the outstanding issues so that the as the Baden Powell and Cambridge primary schools, foreshore in this part of Port Phillip Bay can be currently have a zone in place, along with Westgrove maintained as one of the great places of Melbourne. and The Grange primary schools, and are fast reaching their capacity. Defibrillators: public access

I became extremely concerned about the government’s Ms DUNCAN (Macedon) — I raise a matter for the lack of interest in this growth area when the Wyndham attention of the Minister for Health. The action I seek Leader of 1 February quoted a government from him is the funding of an initiative that will deliver spokeswoman for the minister as stating that the three defibrillators for sporting clubrooms across the state at primary schools, including one for Tarneit, ‘were not a cost to the state government of approximately priority projects for the government at this stage’. It is $2 million. imperative that the government continue to plan for future growth, be open with the community on where it Andrew White is a mobile intensive care ambulance plans to build future schools and not neglect the west. paramedic in Gisborne, and his vision, inspired by his own work experiences, would see 700 to Sandringham: beach renourishment 800 defibrillators installed in football clubrooms which are well used by football, cricket and netball teams and Mr THOMPSON (Sandringham) — I raise a their supporter groups and for many social functions. matter for the attention of the Minister for Environment This is about putting defibrillators in locations that will and Climate Change. I seek the opportunity to lead a maximise their availability, particularly in rural areas. small deputation to the minister of Sandringham

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Andrew raised this initiative with me last year Mount Pleasant Road Primary School and following the death of a young man named Stephen Kindergarten: funding Buckman in May after a sudden cardiac arrest while training with the Rupertswood Football Club. Andrew Ms RYALL (Mitcham) — I raise a matter for the attended Stephen as a paramedic, and this experience Minister for Education, and the action I seek is that he motivated him to pursue this initiative. As Sue visit the Mount Pleasant Road Primary School and Buckman, Stephen’s mother, said: Kindergarten in Nunawading. The school reports that it has had no capital works conducted since 1971. It has This initiative is to prevent this happening to any other been neglected by the Labor government and the mother. former member for Mitcham. It has missed out when Since Stephen’s death we have had another sudden other schools have benefited, and its pleas have fallen death, that of 52-year-old Steve Simpson, who was on deaf ears. training the Gisborne under-18s. Contrast this with the survival of Dr Geoff Allen, a 48-year-old who was The parents and friends community at the school has defibrillated within 3 minutes of his cardiac arrest. It is banded together and raised much-needed funds for these cases and many thousands like them that motivate infrastructure at the school in the absence of support Andrew White. from the former government. This lack of support has taken its toll on families, many of whom have said they Late last year the Brumby government announced felt neglected by the former Labor government. This funding to place 150 defibrillators in public places as lack of support has taken its toll on families, many of part of an $8.2 million package aimed at increasing the whom have said they felt neglected by the former survival rate of heart attack victims, having previously Labor government. installed public access defibrillators in over 20 venues across the state, including Melbourne Airport and the One example of that neglect is the breezeway in the Shrine of Remembrance, to name a few. We need to school — people have not been able to close the doors continue this rollout of automatic external defibrillators. because of the smell from the toilets. Another problem is that parents have had to pay for second-hand A study into sudden cardiac arrest outcomes at the computers to meet the needs of students. MCG and the Shrine of Remembrance, published in 2000, supports this case. It concluded that a massive Mount Pleasant Road Primary School and Kindergarten 85.7 per cent success rate was achieved for patients in Nunawading has a fantastic community and who received early defibrillation after sudden cardiac wonderful atmosphere. I have been delighted to attend arrest. Given that the standard ambulance response time several special assemblies there. There are great bonds is 10 to 12 minutes, it is very rare that an ambulance between the families, and the children at the school are crew will be on the scene within the first 5 minutes after a terrific group. The community’s fear is that new a cardiac arrest. A sufferer’s chance of survival drops students will not be attracted to the school because of by a massive 10 per cent with each minute that passes the past neglect that they have faced. I invite the without defibrillation. Minister for Education to visit the Mount Pleasant Road primary school. Andrew believes this initiative would be a partnership between the state and local governments and the private I make the point that two schools in Mitcham were sector. At approximately $2400 per unit, the neglected for a great length of time by the former defibrillators would be rolled out to local governments, government, and Mount Pleasant Road Primary School with each municipality being given approximately and Kindergarten is one of them. It is about time 30 units. Andrew believes this will allow for a good someone took notice, had a look at the premises and saturation of automated external defibrillators talked to the school community. I invite the Minister for throughout each community. Some municipalities may Education to do so. require more and others less, depending on their size. National curriculum: Hindi language Andrew White has named this initiative Defib Your Club, for Life!, and he has already done an enormous Mr PERERA (Cranbourne) — I raise a matter for amount of work to achieve his vision. The action I am the attention of the Minister for Education. The action I seeking on his behalf from the Minister for Health is for seek is that the minister provide adequate funding to the government to allocate a budget that supports the support the teaching of the Hindi language throughout fundraising efforts of Defib Your Club, for Life! our public schools in Victoria.

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The teaching of Hindi is well supported by eager The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The participants throughout not only this great state of member’s time has expired. Victoria but also throughout the whole of the nation. Nationally statistics show that more than 70 000 people Mordialloc Creek: dredging speak Hindi at home, with more than 18 000 Hindi speakers in Victoria. The figures I have quoted are Ms WREFORD (Mordialloc) — I raise a matter for 2006 figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the attention of the Minister for Water. The action I so it would be fair to say that national and state figures seek is for the minister to visit Mordialloc Creek and to would have increased since then. work towards the fastest possible delivery of the government’s promise to dredge the creek. It is also my understanding that the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority will In this place you often hear the apt description of the soon be finalising languages to be included in the last 11 years under Labor as having been dark, and national curriculum and that a formal submission has never has that description been more true than in been lodged for the inclusion of Hindi by the reference to Mordialloc Creek. During those 11 years a Committee for Hindi, which is based in Victoria. I urge blind eye was turned to the creek as it filled with a dark this government to also make representations to the silt that at times rendered it impassable for boats. federal government supporting the proposal that the Mordialloc Creek was one of the jewels of the crown teaching of Hindi be included in the national that was Port Phillip Bay. It can be a beautiful, curriculum. family-friendly riverside environment where boats It is interesting to note that within a few years India is come and go, protected as they enter the bay. Rather likely to become this nation’s third-largest export than maintaining its beauty and usefulness, the previous market, behind China and Japan. Conservative government allowed it to fall into decline. In 11 years, estimates predict that India will rank in the world’s top as the silt built up leaving boats high and dry, members five economies by gross domestic product in 2025, a of the former government never thought to dredge the time at which kids entering primary school now will be creek — at least not until the Liberal Party made a completing their education. commitment to do so.

A few years ago Goldman Sachs predicted that India At a recent Legends of the Creek dinner the member for would overtake the USA by 2050 and become the Carrum and I had the pleasure of providing the second-largest world economy, after China. Just Mordialloc Creek community with an outline of the recently India was confirmed as Australia’s targets to be met in order to have the creek dredged in fourth-largest merchandise export market and the quickest possible time. This passionate creek group seventh-largest merchandise trading partner. Two-way was formed due to a lack of action on the part of trade between India and Australia, including goods and members of the previous government, who for 11 years services, is worth nearly $22 billion, with states like ignored the environmental and usability issues raised by Victoria benefiting strongly from this important trade the local community. Mordialloc Creek now needs partnership. complete dredging to remove the unacceptable levels of silt build-up, which this coalition government has In recent years Indian companies have also shown a undertaken to do. great interest in investing in this state, not only in the mineral resource industry but also in agriculture, From the day we were elected and the new government information technology and consulting. The benefits of was formed we have been working to have the dredging becoming fluent in Hindi are not confined to commence at the earliest possible time. We have been Australians of Indian ancestry; they apply to all working with the community, Kingston City Council Australians, including those who are of European and various departments to move this project along. ancestry, who would envisage lucrative careers The stages of this project fall largely within the working with India and Indian companies either in responsibility of the Minister for Water, and it is India or here in Australia. important to the Mordialloc community that the minister comes to see firsthand the work that is required Let us prepare for the future. Let us give Victorian kids to be done. the best opportunities in the competitive international market. Over the past two decades Victoria has evolved Dredging the Mordialloc Creek is part of the symbolic as the state that focuses more on the innovative, change that Victoria has undergone since November service-based and diversified industry sector. last year. After 11 years of no action from Labor, the

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Premier came to visit the creek and announced Ms ASHER — It is not a point of order this time; it $6 million of funding if the Liberals were elected to is just a barrage across the table. government. The next step is a visit from the Minister for Water so he can help drive this important process. The member for Narracan has indicated that the average length of stay last year was five nights and that Mr R. Smith — On a point of order, Deputy the event provided a substantial boost to the local Speaker, I seek your guidance on the matter raised by community. I am delighted to advise the member for the member for Tarneit. I refer you to page 4 of Rulings Narracan that funding has been approved for the from the Chair, which states: marketing of the Tour of Gippsland in July, for the Tour of Geelong in August and for the Tour of the What constitutes action. Asking a minister to continue to do Murray in September. There are significant economic something does not constitute asking them to take action. benefits, particularly in the cases of the Tour of The member asked the Minister for Education to Gippsland and the Tour of the Murray River, across a continue to provide for the growth of education in broad number of regions, which is why Tourism Wyndham. I seek your guidance on whether that Victoria is prepared to grant this funding. Caribou particular request is in order. Publications, a Geelong-based firm, will assist with marketing. The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! I thought I was clear on what the member was saying. The member will be pleased to know that $27 500 has been approved from Tourism Victoria’s events program Mr Pallas — On the point of order, Deputy in order to promote these particular events going Speaker, I have the note in front of me that I have through his electorate and the electorate of the member provided to the Clerk. It states: for Geelong, who I note has not asked me for funding, and a whole range of electorates along the Murray The matter I wish to raise is for the Minister for Education. The action I seek is for the government to make a whose members have asked for funding from the commitment to the Wyndham community that it will take government. immediate action to continue to provide for the educational needs for the growth area … Mr MULDER (Minister for Public Transport) — The member for Bendigo East raised an issue on behalf The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! That is what I of a constituent in relation to the impact of the regional understood the adjournment matter to be. The member rail project. I will go back to my department and get also highlighted the increase in Wyndham’s population, that information for the member for Bendigo East and particularly the number of children and the need for respond accordingly. further education. I cannot uphold the point of order. The member for Footscray raised an issue in relation to Responses the upgrading of stations in her electorate. I understand that the member asked that her constituents be handled Ms ASHER (Minister for Tourism and Major with a degree of sensitivity in terms of how we move Events) — I respond to a very important issue raised by forward with the regional rail project. As the member the member for Narracan, who is a very strong for Footscray would be aware, the Baillieu government advocate for tourism and has been since he was elected committed to putting two protective services officers on to Parliament. The member has asked for funding for stations in her electorate from 6.00 p.m. until the last Caribou Publications, specifically for the Tour of train at night, seven days a week. At the moment we are Gippsland, which is to be held from 27 to 31 July. This doing an audit of the stations to determine what year’s route is yet to be finalised, but it did go through facilities are required to house those protective service the Narracan electorate last year, so he is — — officers, but that will in its own right provide a great Ms Allan interjected. deal of security for people who travel late at night and it will ensure that patronage grows late at night. People The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member will be prepared to travel. It will do away with a lot of for Bendigo East! I am having difficulty hearing the the assaults that have occurred on railway stations in minister. and around the metropolitan area.

An honourable member — She is taking a point of In relation to the member for Footscray’s request to order, is she? handle her constituents with sensitivity, I would like to give a bit of background on this issue. If we go back to the start of the regional rail link project, we will all

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Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 935 recall very clearly the way the former Labor which for 11 years had nothing done to it by the Labor government handled the residents of those homes in Party — — Footscray. The government of the day organised a filling of faces — that is, a lavish lunch — then Ms Allan interjected. attracted the media to that function and sent government officers out to houses to knock on doors in Mr WALSH — It was ignored by the previous an attempt to draw attention away from the media. It government, as the member for Bendigo East reminds was an absolutely disgusting and outlandish way to me. It is obviously fixed in her mind that she ignored handle people. Mordialloc Creek for 11 years. But the issue that the member for Mordialloc quite rightly raises is that of the The way to deal with this issue is the way we dealt with de-silting of Mordialloc Creek — — it when we came to government. We announced that the project was under review. I invited a group of Ms Allan interjected. people from Footscray into Parliament House to sit The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member down and talk with me. I took them through the entire for Bendigo East will cease interjecting. project. They were astounded that they had access to a minister; they could not believe that they would get Mr WALSH — As the member for Mordialloc access to a minister. We gave them that access. Not mentioned, de-silting Mordialloc Creek will improve only that but I also instructed the Regional Rail Link the amenity of the area for the people who use that Authority to make sure that people who wanted to get creek. The now Premier went to Mordialloc during the on with their lives could be paid out and their houses election campaign and made an announcement of acquired so they could do just that. We handled those $6 million in funding to de-silt the creek. The members people with a great deal of sensitivity — — for Mordialloc, Carrum and Sandringham and Mrs Peulich, a member for South Eastern Metropolitan Mr Pallas interjected. Region in the other place, met with Melbourne Water a The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member number of weeks ago — — for Tarneit! Ms Allan interjected.

Mr MULDER — I will just refer to the The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member announcement that was made yesterday in relation to for Bendigo East knows it is disorderly to communicate the Regional Rail Link Authority. We held over that with people in the gallery. She has now been warned. announcement so the Regional Rail Link Authority could call every person who was affected in the Mr WALSH — We had a very good briefing with Footscray area and make sure they were informed that Melbourne Water about this issue. Melbourne Water the project was going ahead. We then made the media staff brought maps of the area with them, and it was announcement — that is, after that information was very helpful for me as minister to understand how the provided to those residents. That is the way that you issues in relation to the creek fit together. The member deal with people. You put people before politics. That for Mordialloc has now invited me to have a look at is why we are sitting here and Labor is on the other Mordialloc Creek. I accept her invitation and look side. We put people first. We put the people of the west forward to going there and having a look at the issues first with the regional rail link, and that is why we were firsthand so that I can work with those members with elected to government. We will continue to treat people an interest in the creek to make sure that the Baillieu with the degree of respect they deserve. government delivers a good outcome for that area.

Ms Thomson interjected. Mr DIXON (Minister for Education) — First of all the member for Mitcham asked me to come and visit The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member Mount Pleasant Road Primary School. The member for for Footscray will cease interjecting in that matter. Mitcham is already a very strong advocate for her local Mr WALSH (Minister for Water) — I want to schools. As a candidate she knew her schools and they respond to the adjournment matter raised by the knew her, and she has continued that tremendous member for Mordialloc on both her own behalf and connection with them as the new member for Mitcham. also the member for Carrum’s behalf. I am also told I think it is very important for me to go and see that the member for Sandringham has an interest in this firsthand how some of the schools in Victoria have issue as well. This issue concerns Mordialloc Creek, been neglected. I think the member for Mitcham said the last works at the school were done in the 1970s.

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It is interesting to note that we have had Labor number of scholarships so that we have many teachers governments here in Victoria for 21 of the last 28 years, who are able to teach a language other than English, and now we have countless schools that have just been because we know how important that is for economic, left behind and had absolutely no money spent on them. cultural, educational and social reasons for students in Once again that is something we are inheriting. I think Victoria. it is very important for me, as the minister, to go and talk to the school community and look at what the Even though we have a higher participation rate in issues are. I will be accompanied by the member for languages other than English than any other state in Mitcham. It will be a great pleasure to visit that school Australia, when you take a global view you see we are community with her, and my office will make way behind, so it is very important for our students to arrangements for that visit. have the capacity to learn another language in our schools. As far as Victoria is concerned there is The member for Tarneit asked for an action, eventually, absolutely nothing stopping the Indian community from about the provision of a new P–9 school in the Tarneit working with local school communities or establishing area, and he indicated the growth in the area and the after-hours community language schools. In fact we need for a school there. Amongst the policy priorities have increased funding from $120 to $190 for every that we announced during the election campaign were student who attends a community language school, so new schools in the growth areas of Torquay and there are a lot of opportunities here in Victoria for Officer, and in the case of Officer that includes both a schools and community groups to teach their special school and a secondary school. As for other community language. education needs around Victoria — and there are many — it is interesting that a lot of opposition In a national sense I do not know whether the member members are asking why we have not rebuilt a school for Cranbourne made a submission to the Australian in the three months we have been in government when Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority, they have had 21 out of the last 28 years, and more which is the body in charge of developing the national specifically the last 11 years — — curriculum. I met with representatives of that body this morning. I do not know if the member for Cranbourne Mr Pallas interjected. or members of his community did that, but all is not lost if they have not, because they have until Thursday, The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member 7 April, when there will be a consultation process for Tarneit should listen to the response he is getting regarding the languages being nominated as the first from the minister. tranche of languages for the national curriculum. Hindi is obviously not one of those, but there is an Mr DIXON — We have inherited a long list of opportunity for them to do that, and I encourage them needs in education in terms of the renewal and to do so. rebuilding of schools, as well as the building of new schools and the purchase of land. I am aware that the I think Hindi is a very important language, and as far as need for a new school in Tarneit is strong, and I will Victoria is concerned I have some say in that matter. I certainly consider the need for that school. As I have encourage the community to push for that, and I said before in this place, our first priority is to meet our encourage the community to take it up as a language policy commitments. They are what we went to the other than English. It would do a great service to the election with and what we were elected on. The other young children of Victoria, whether they are Hindi needs, modernisations and new schools, as well as the speakers themselves or they wish to take on that extra purchase of land in growth areas, will certainly be language. considered as part of our ongoing planning and budgetary processes. Mr R. SMITH (Minister for Environment and Climate Change) — In response to the member for Finally, the member for Cranbourne asked for support Sandringham, who asked me to come and meet with the from this government to make representations to the community group about various environmental issues, I federal government for Hindi to be recognised as a say that I will be happy to do that at a time that is national language to be taught as part of the national mutually agreeable. curriculum. I can assure the member for Cranbourne that this government is very proactive and absolutely In response to the member for Macedon, who raised an sees the importance of languages other than English issue for the Minister for Health with regard to funding being taught, in a real sense, in our schools. Our policy an initiative to ensure that defibrillators are made is to build the capacity of our teachers through a available in areas that maximise their availability, I will

ADJOURNMENT

Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 937 ensure that the Minister for Health has that passed on to him.

The member for Rodney raised a matter for the Minister for Police and Emergency Services asking the minister to meet with Echuca’s emergency services providers in Echuca. I will ensure that the Minister for Police and Emergency Services receives that request.

The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The house now stands adjourned.

House adjourned 10.42 p.m.

938 ASSEMBLY

PETITIONS

Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 939

Wednesday, 6 April 2011 Rail: Werribee line

The SPEAKER (Hon. Ken Smith) took the chair at To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria: 9.33 a.m. and read the prayer. The petition of certain citizens of the state of Victoria who travel on the Altona train line draws to the attention of the house the Baillieu government’s plan to cut train services, cut PETITIONS the frequency of city loop trains and abandon the regional rail link project. Following petitions presented to house: In particular we note that these changes would:

Box Hill to Ringwood bike trail: funding 1. increase crowding on existing train services;

To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria: 2. be less convenient for commuters;

The petition of residents of Victoria, particularly those 3. result in further delays and longer travel times residing east of Melbourne, draws to the attention of the house the need for a safe cycle trail following the railway line The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative from Box Hill to Ringwood to connect these planned central Assembly urges the Baillieu government to reverse its plans activity districts and to link with existing trails. The proposed to cut services and abandon the regional rail link project. trail should as far as possible be off road to encourage use by schoolchildren and less confident riders of the general By Mr NOONAN (Williamstown) (323 signatures). population. Such a trail will reduce road congestion and atmospheric pollution and simultaneously increase the health Schools: Doreen and fitness of riders. Refer to the BHRRT report by Whitehorse Cyclists 2010. To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria:

The petitioners request that the Legislative Assembly of The petition of certain citizens of the state of Victoria draws Victoria constructs a 10-kilometre shared path between Box to the attention of the house the rapid increase in families Hill and Ringwood. moving to Doreen and Mernda, suburbs of northern metropolitan Melbourne. By Ms RYALL (Mitcham) (3031 signatures). In particular we note: Rail: regional link 1. there are now almost 1000 students enrolled at To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria: government primary schools in Mernda and Doreen, with that figure set to increase in the years to come; The petition of Wyndham residents and public transport users in the western suburbs of Melbourne draws to the attention of 2. there are no government secondary colleges in Mernda the house the Baillieu government’s failure to commit to the or Doreen; regional rail link project. In particular we note the project would provide: 3. land has been purchased by the previous Labor government for a secondary college to be built in 1. capacity for an extra 9000 passengers per hour by Cookes Road, Doreen. providing up to 12 extra train services every hour on the Werribee, Sydenham and Craigieburn lines; The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Assembly urges the Baillieu government to urgently fund the 2. two new stations in Manor Lakes and Tarneit, with the building of a secondary college in Doreen. Manor Lakes train tracks to be located in a full-depth cutting between Lollypop Creek and Ballan Road in By Ms GREEN (Yan Yean) (328 signatures). Wyndham Vale; Tabled. 3. 14 new grade separations to ensure no new road-rail level crossings will be constructed, making sure that Ordered that petition presented by honourable local road links continue to flow; member for Williamstown be considered next day 4. Geelong, Ballarat and Bendigo with 50 kilometres of on motion of Mr NOONAN (Williamstown). dedicated new rail track running from West Werribee to Sunshine and then through to Southern Cross station. Ordered that petition presented by honourable member for Mitcham be considered next day on The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative motion of Ms RYALL (Mitcham). Assembly of Victoria ensure that this vital project proceeds. By Mr PALLAS (Tarneit) (1790 signatures). Ordered that petition presented by honourable member for Yan Yean be considered next day on motion of Ms GREEN (Yan Yean).

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940 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011

Ordered that petition presented by honourable scouts and Country Fire Authority activities; stalls member for Tarneit be considered next day on selling a wide variety of goods; and as always the motion of Mr NOONAN (Williamstown). stalwarts of the community, the Lions Club of Mooroolbark, and its sausage sizzle.

DOCUMENTS The festival was supported by the Yarra Ranges Shire Council, the Bendigo Bank and many other Tabled by Clerk: organisations which donated funds to ensure that this true community festival was a success. Congratulations Auditor-General: to the committee chair, Andrew Lang; the vice-chair, Facilitating Renewable Energy Development — Randall Bourchier; the secretary, Jean Mitchinson; and Ordered to be printed their loyal band of helpers. Problem-Solving Approaches to Justice — Ordered to be printed Dental services: waiting lists

Crimes (Controlled Operations) Act 2004 — Report of the Mrs FYFFE — Another matter I wish to raise is Special Investigations Monitor under s 39 dental waiting lists. The appalling inaction of the Parliamentary Committees Act 2003: previous Bracks and Brumby governments left many poor, hardworking Victorians suffering excruciating Government response to the Family and Community pain and waiting ridiculously long times to get basic Development Committee’s Report on the Inquiry into dental care. Two constituents came to my office on the the Adequacy and Future Directions of Public Housing in Victoria same day last week complaining about separate public day dental clinics, the Ranges Community Health clinic Government response to the Outer Suburban/Interface in Lilydale and the Royal Dental Hospital of Services and Development Committee’s Report on the Melbourne. Both patients were on waiting lists for close Inquiry into Farmers’ Markets to three years, and they had even had to wait over Statutory Rule under the Building Act 1993 — SR 14 4 hours for emergencies. Fillings falling out, severe nerve pain and gum inflammation did not count as Subordinate Legislation Act 1994 — Documents under s 15 in emergencies. relation to Statutory Rule 14. Penola Catholic College: redevelopment BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE Mr McGUIRE (Broadmeadows) — I rise to Adjournment acknowledge the redevelopment of Penola Catholic College in my electorate. Last week I had the privilege Mr McINTOSH (Minister for Corrections) — I of opening the digital language laboratory and the move: hospitality centre at the Broadmeadows campus of the school. It is critically important that students have That the house, at its rising on Thursday, 7 April, adjourn access to the highest quality infrastructure and until Tuesday, 3 May. opportunities at school. The new hospitality centre Motion agreed to. means students undertaking the school’s program will no longer need to go elsewhere for practical experience.

MEMBERS STATEMENTS The facilities add to the serene surroundings of the school, which resemble those of a university campus, Celebrate Mooroolbark 2011 and have helped to raise educational aspirations throughout the community. When I asked the school’s Mrs FYFFE (Evelyn) — This year’s Celebrate co-captain, Christian Makhol, what the new language Mooroolbark festival, held on Saturday, 26 March, was centre meant to students, he gave a one word response: a terrific event with a great family and community ‘Awesome’. He meant that in both the original and the atmosphere. Brice Avenue was closed off in the contemporary meaning of the word. It sums up the morning for the fantastic parade of local groups, bands appreciation of students for what has been delivered and schools. Horse and carriage rides were very popular and their engagement in terms of what they can achieve with many visitors. The festival included bagpipes; in the future. belly dancers; jumping castles; a miniature railway; children’s activities, including writing competitions;

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 941

These state-of-the-art facilities provide students with their successful campaign to secure funding for the the highest quality of infrastructure, and I would like to second stage of the eastern autistic school. The school pay tribute to the Australian government for its is a very important facility catering for children with significant investment in the school. autism spectrum disorder in the eastern suburbs. In government Labor funded stage 1 and committed a I would like to applaud the federal member for Calwell, further $8 million for stage 2. Maria Vamvakinou, for her work in helping to deliver these projects and thank the college’s principal, However, in what has become the standard operating Mr Christopher Blake, the chair of the college board, procedure of the Baillieu government, it dithered and Mrs Gabrielle Rees, and the Penola community for dithered and tried to rewrite history, causing their commitment to ensuring that their vision became a unnecessary anxiety and uncertainty. The members for reality. In particular I would also like to thank Madison Ferntree Gully and Bayswater inappropriately took the De Zilva and Christian Makhoul, the co-captains, who principal’s comments out of context for their own conducted the guided tour with infectious enthusiasm. grubby political purposes. Along with my colleague, Shaun Leane, who is a member for Eastern Echuca Regional Health: funding Metropolitan Region in another place, I had the pleasure of meeting with members of the ASD Mr WELLER (Rodney) — I would like to thank secondary school action group. We are more than the Minister for Health for accepting my invitation to happy to support their very important campaign on this visit Echuca Regional Health later this month for a issue. briefing on the urgent need to commence the hospital’s redevelopment. The Liberal-Nationals coalition brought I am pleased to say that the clear arguments, passion great joy to the people of Echuca and district when it and commitment of the school principal, parents and came to power at the November election and local community have now convinced a reluctant committed $40 million to this exciting and minister to fund the vital next stage of this very long-overdue project. This $40 million commitment is important facility, and we can now look forward to the in stark contrast to Labor’s refusal to acknowledge or completion of the school, hopefully without any more fund the desperately needed upgrade during its 11 years political game playing. in government. The commitment includes a new accident and emergency department; maternity, Asian honeybees: control paediatric, surgical and medical wards; a pharmacy; and a new reception area, public cafeteria and entry Mr TILLEY (Benambra) — I rise to speak on a foyer. major food security issue facing agribusinesses in Victoria and across the nation due to a lack of At the conclusion of this redevelopment hospital bed leadership by the federal government. Recently I had numbers will have increased from the current level of the good fortune to speak with a local honey producer, 68 to 113, representing a 66 per cent increase. In itself Mrs Jodie Goldsworthy from Beechworth Honey. this will provide a major boost in the ability of the Mrs Goldsworthy has described to me the potential hospital to deliver the full range of health services so devastation that the invasion of the Asian honeybee — necessary to a large and ever-growing regional centre. Apis Cerana — may cause.

I was pleased recently to receive confirmation of this This is a complex matter, and decisions must be made funding commitment in a letter from the Minister for on the best available scientific advice. However, there Health, and I am also appreciative of advice that the is a substantial divergence of expert scientific opinion Baillieu-Ryan government has written to the federal on the potential of the Asian honeybee to spread across Minister for Health and Ageing seeking additional the nation and into Victoria. There is scientific funding under the Health and Hospitals Fund for further uncertainty, and the potential consequences threaten additional works at Echuca Regional Health. I look Australia’s honeybee industry, food producers and food forward to meeting with the minister when he visits stakeholders as a whole, who are vital to Victoria’s Echuca hospital on Tuesday, 19 April. contribution to feeding not only its own population but also the nation’s population. No satisfactory method Autism: eastern suburbs school has been developed to control the Asian honeybees. Finding the nest and destroying it has been the only Mr HULLS (Niddrie) — I want to congratulate the control measure used to date. principal, Gail Preston, and the parents of Wantirna Heights ASD (autism spectrum disorder) facility on

MEMBERS STATEMENTS

942 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011

The cessation of eradication funding is the latest Planning: Mount Eliza land indication that the federal government has no interest in Australia’s biosecurity, and it is costing business in Mr MORRIS (Mornington) — In late March the north-eastern Victoria. More than 200 bee campaigners Mornington Peninsula Shire Council moved to advise descended on Parliament House in Canberra earlier in the Minister for Planning of its support for a planning the month to protest the lack of action by the scheme amendment to introduce controls to protect the Gillard-Brown government. I join with the federal Mount Eliza Woodland area, similar to the controls member for Indi, Sophie Mirabella, and the federal scuttled by former planning minister, the member for shadow Minister for Agriculture and Food Security, Essendon, after they had gathered dust on his desk for John Cobb, in calling for the federal Minister for two years. Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Joe Ludwig, to do the right thing by rural business and commit to further The council decision will support the government’s eradication works. election commitment to protect the Woodland area from the threat of extensive subdivision. It will allow Brunswick Secondary College: funding local and state agencies to work with the community to introduce planning controls in line with community Ms GARRETT (Brunswick) — It is becoming expectations and protect this sensitive area from increasingly apparent that this government is inappropriate development. determined to ignore the needs of our northern suburbs. Of critical concern to the many constituents in my The plan to protect the woodlands has a very high level electorate is the need to ensure that there is adequate of support, both within the immediate area and in the provision of quality secondary school places in the area. broader communities of Mount Eliza and Mornington. I congratulate the council on its decision to continue its Brunswick Secondary College has achieved great support for an appropriate planning regime for the success. It has had an outstanding reputation in recent Woodland area, and I look forward to working with the years and is subject to an ever-growing demand from council and the community to achieve the best possible families in the area. It is a proudly diverse, outcome. academically focused school with a strong commitment to sports and the arts. Toorak College: music centre opening

I was most disappointed with recent comments from Mr MORRIS — On another matter, last the spokesperson for the Minister for Education Wednesday night, my wife Linda and I had the great indicating that the minister and this government will pleasure of attending the opening of the Toorak College continue to play politics with the provision of education music centre. The centre is an exciting project which in this state, particularly in the northern suburbs. The provides opportunities for students to take individual minister has refused to commit to schools in the north, lessons, rehearse in ensembles, compose and record instead reiterating that only coalition election promises music, and of course perform in an indoor/outdoor will be given priority. This approach is not based on performance space. The centre brings together students good public policy or on the needs of this state’s of all ages, musical disciplines and teaching staff under children. the one roof.

At the last election the previous Labor government Opening night was headlined by James Morrison and committed to a substantial capital upgrade and a cappella group The Idea of North, who were joined modernisation of Brunswick Secondary College which by many staff and students from the school, would allow the school to expand its student body and culminating in a grand finale of over 200 talented its offerings. This is important, given the growing performers. population in the area and the increase in the number of families staying in the inner city to raise their children My congratulations to the Toorak College board, through to adulthood. This growing demand has also principal Noel Thomas and the school music staff on a been acknowledged by the Department of Education tremendous achievement. and Early Childhood Development. Geelong Trades Hall Council: Labour Day In the lead-up to the budget and on behalf of my dinner constituents I reiterate my calls to this government to come through with the goods for this vital school. Mr TREZISE (Geelong) — On Friday, 18 March, I once again had the privilege of attending the Geelong Trades Hall Council’s Labour Day dinner. As usual the

MEMBERS STATEMENTS

Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 943 night was a resounding success, with in excess of Team Holding. It was a great effort by these ladies and 250 people commemorating the history of Labour Day, all competitors. the Eight-Hour Day and the union movement in Geelong. Fittingly, a book titled 100 Years of Also competing was Team Whoopsadaisy, consisting Struggle — The History of Geelong Trades Hall of members from the Latrobe Valley police force, Council was launched. The book was researched and including Constable Sarah Bartorelli and Sergeant written by Allan Sargent, and I congratulate him on his Sharon Matheson. Team Crorajoto and Macca’s Megga efforts. Team competed in honour of a past participant, Dave ‘Crocka’ Williams, who passed away suddenly on New The night also saw a number of other important Years Day at the age of 35. Crocka was a local achievements recognised. Anne Morrison, office Churchill football legend who was widely respected, manager at the Geelong Trades Hall Council, has not only by the football community but by the provided 20 years of dedicated service, and this service community in general. I also applaud the Churchill was recognised with a moving presentation to her. I Football Netball Club for hosting a recent dinner to take this opportunity to commend Anne on her service raise funds for Crocka’s family. The fundraiser was a and thank her for all the help she has given me over the huge success with a massive crowd in attendance, and it years. was a fitting tribute to a person who was universally admired. Our sympathies are with Crocka’s wife, In addition, each year the Geelong Trades Hall Kylea, and their three children. Women’s Network recognises one female unionist for her work or achievements throughout the year. Fittingly World Autism Awareness Day in 2011 Sharon Rowlands, an Australian Services Union delegate, was recognised for her work and Ms HUTCHINS (Keilor) — I rise to acknowledge commitment in negotiating into the workplace the second year of the Teddy Bears Picnic in Keilor on enterprise bargaining agreement a clause covering leave 2 April, World Autism Awareness Day, which I for employees who are affected by domestic violence. I attended. The annual picnic raises awareness about congratulate Sharon on her work in paving the way by autism, raises funds for the non-profit organisation negotiating the introduction of this groundbreaking Autism Angels and provides a fun day out for local clause. families, including families with autistic children. Autism Angels, led by its president, Dina, and Finally I commend the Geelong Trades Hall Council secretary, Despina, does an amazing job advocating on secretary, Tim Gooden, and president, Dave Ball, and behalf of families with autistic children in the west. their team for another successful Labour Day dinner and for their important work in representing, protecting I also commend the Taylors Lakes Lions Club on its and promoting workers’ rights in the Geelong area. efforts in organising the event, staffing the teddy bears doctor stall and assisting with the barbecue. I Oxfam: Trailwalker fundraiser acknowledge the sponsorship of Brimbank City Council and the volunteers from the council, in Mr NORTHE (Morwell) — Last Friday I had the particular Dominic, Effie and Lisa Frost. I also opportunity to witness the 100-kilometre Oxfam acknowledge the volunteer efforts of Don, Margaret, Trailwalker endurance event commencing at Jells Park, Virginia, Jackie, Diane and Mark. Wheelers Hill, and concluding at Wesburn Park near Warburton. This is an amazing endurance event that It was a great event with a sausage sizzle, a jumping raises funds to support those in need, and this year’s castle, a teddy bears doctor stall, a teddy bears fashion event raised approximately $2.5 million. Many parade and a teddy bears and kids dance-off, which was residents from the Gippsland region competed in this a highlight of the day. Special thanks go to the member year’s event, and one can only admire the efforts of all for Altona and her staff for their kind contributions and the participants from in excess of 700 teams. donation of two large teddy bears and to Steve Moncur from Aussie Farmers, our local milkman, for providing I had the pleasure of being part of the support crew for the fruit and vegie boxes for the raffle. the Fearless Foursome team consisting of four ladies from the Morwell electorate. Sandra Timmer-Arends, Victorian Women’s Honour Roll: inductees Deb Piercy, Leanne Keating and Jenny Northe completed the 100 kilometres in 13 hours and Mr THOMPSON (Sandringham) — I mark the 40 minutes, finishing in 10th place and not far behind induction of two Sandringham electorate residents into the Victorian Women’s Honour Roll. Professor

MEMBERS STATEMENTS

944 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011

Jayashri Kulkarni is described on the Department of Kindergarten, along with the regional education office Planning and Community Development website as: and many other interested stakeholders, including me. The master planning process has worked well over the Winner of the 2010 New Inventors grand final for inventing a past five years and has seen the educational community biomarker device to diagnose mental illness. Internationally recognised for her work in the treatment of mental health develop an exciting plan for a new K–12 school to be disorders, particularly in women’s mental health, pioneering located on and adjacent to the present secondary the use of oestrogen as a treatment in schizophrenia and college site. depression. In recent years both the primary school and the I also acknowledge the excellent contribution of the secondary school have relinquished their opportunities many professionals working in the field of mental to apply for major federal stimulus funding. The school health who have made an important contribution to the community, working with the regional education office, welfare of my constituents in the Sandringham is very excited by its plans, which it sees as highlighting electorate. the need to start works to replace buildings on the Ms Virginia Simmons, the other inductee whose secondary college site as quickly as possible. The induction I wish to mark, is described by the school community and I have made the new education department’s website as an: minister aware of the situation and have encouraged him to visit, but I hope this can happen as a priority and … innovator in vocational and tertiary education. First that the schools will receive substantial funding in the female director of a TAFE Institution in Victoria; longest upcoming budget to enable this plan to become a serving female TAFE CEO and director in Victoria reality. (Chisholm). She also pioneered youth training access to TAFE and Youth: under-age drinking funding support for people from culturally and Ms MILLER (Bentleigh) — Recently I visited linguistically diverse backgrounds. several schools in the Bentleigh electorate to talk to Schools: former government performance them about politics and the political system. I was struck by the amount of concern these young people Mr THOMPSON — I also mark the failure of the have about under-age drinking, including legalities and previous government to properly fund Victorian potential health effects. The acceptance of alcohol secondary schools. When I was first elected to this within both their friendship groups and their families place I was staggered to learn that in the Labor led them to the understanding that under-age drinking heartland schools had walls that had been kicked in and was okay. Over the 11 long years of Labor the previous spouting that had rusted up, with weeds growing out of government turned a blind eye to this escalating it. I find it remarkable that in the current context, when alcohol-fuelled behaviour on our streets and the the Labor Party has been in office for almost 75 per growing problem of under-age drinking. cent of the last three decades — — The Baillieu government is taking the lead and a strong The SPEAKER — Order! The member’s time has position by saying that under-age drinking is not okay. expired. The students and I discussed the real risks involved with alcohol — not just the medical effects but the Schools: Kyneton dangers involved with drink driving and impaired judgement. I used the horrifying example of the recent Mr HOWARD (Ballarat East) — Kyneton tragedy at Crib Point, where a car load of five navy Secondary College is a great school with a great cadets hit a concrete power pole, killing two and history. However, many of its facilities are in need of injuring three. It is unfortunate that extreme imagery major redevelopment. This redevelopment would have and true life situations are required to illustrate to some been under way, but the college, working with the young people the real dangers of alcohol and to show primary school, recognised a greater educational them that they are not invincible. opportunity for Kyneton and the surrounding district if the schools developed a master plan together. I commend the students of Bentleigh for listening and now starting to think before they drink, and I applaud Principals Glenn Davey, of the secondary college, and the Baillieu government for providing a clear direction Wendy Pearce, of the primary school, have therefore for our youth into the future. worked with their school communities, Macedon Ranges Shire Council and the local Lady Brooks

MEMBERS STATEMENTS

Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 945

Sunshine Football Club: achievements products but businesses that are owned by members of the Jewish community. Ms THOMSON (Footscray) — Last Wednesday the member for Derrimut and I were fortunate to attend Given this local disgraceful activity in Melbourne and the Western Football League’s season launch. I was the current turmoil in the Middle East, it is very pleased that Sunshine Football Club, which is in disappointing to hear that on this day the Labor Party, my electorate, and the Sunshine Heights and Altona through the member for Thomastown, seeks to create a junior football clubs were the recipients of the 2010 Victorian Parliamentary Friends of Palestine friendship teams of the year awards. It was a fantastic night group. I know that Melbourne’s Jewish small business enjoyed by all, and I congratulate the organisers of the community will not be threatened, intimidated or event. prevented from trading as a result of the actions of this extreme element in our society. I am sure that Bialik In this statement I want to concentrate on the Sunshine College, which has representatives in the gallery today, Football Club, which does wonderful work in a very will be aware of this issue. disadvantaged area encouraging many people from many different ethnic groups to participate in Berwick trades career centre: funding Australian Rules football. The club creates an atmosphere where friends and family can go and enjoy Ms GRALEY (Narre Warren South) — Chisholm the club’s activities. I congratulate everyone involved in TAFE needs certainty from the Baillieu government the management of the club on their well-deserved over the future of the Berwick trades career centre. The award, and I wish them all the best for the 2011 season. former Labor government has a proud record in I will certainly be supporting them through the year. providing for the vocational education and training needs of our young people in the south-east. We built Last year the Brumby government gave a grant to the the Berwick Technical Education Centre (TEC), which Sunshine Football Club to renovate its kitchens, and I has been highly successful in the completion of am looking forward to seeing meals served from that pre-apprenticeship programs. kitchen to the hundreds of people who come there to have a meal every Thursday night. I also look forward The greatest immediate need for the current and future to working with them on the development of their training and employment prospects of our young people grounds and meeting their future needs and the future is the trades career centre. The centre is needed to offer needs of young people. pathways to further training, apprenticeships and employment for those completing pre-apprenticeships Melbourne Central: anti-Israel protest at the TEC.

Mr SOUTHWICK (Caulfield) — I rise to speak Chisholm TAFE, under the leadership of the chief about a protest which was held in Melbourne Central executive officer, Maria Peters, has been lobbying hard shopping centre last Friday, where extreme groups, largely for this facility for a long time. I have met with comprised of left-wing students, attempted to threaten and Ms Peters on a number of occasions, and I brought the intimidate retailers selling Israeli-made goods as part of a matter to the attention of the former Labor government. disgraceful and racist Boycott Divestment and Sanctions I was pleased with our pre-election commitment of campaign, or BDS campaign. This global campaign, $23 million to build the Berwick trades career centre. which carries the endorsement of the New South Wales branch of the Australian Greens, is an appalling effort by The Baillieu government has so far refused to match the extreme left to attack Israel through consumer-led Labor’s commitment and provide funding for this sanctions, with the aim of hurting Israel’s economy and important facility. In fact the member for Gembrook small businesses here in Victoria for having the audacity suggested in the Casey Weekly Berwick that he and the to sell Israeli products. Baillieu government are unsure of the requirements of Chisholm TAFE. The government can deliver on this. The retailers here in Melbourne suffered financial loss One need only look at the midyear financial report to owing to the need to close, and their staff were see that it has inherited 11 years of sound financial intimidated and denied the right to work while the management and a substantial budget surplus. The leftist anti-Israel fanatics rampaged through the public Berwick trades career centre would be located in what shopping centre. This is even more concerning when it we commonly refer to as the Berwick education appears that this group is determined to cause mayhem precinct, which includes the TAFE, TEC, Monash and in some cases violence. There is now talk that this University and Nossal High School — all proud group is not only threatening businesses that sell Israeli achievements of the Bracks and Brumby governments.

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If the member for Gembrook and the Liberal Kangaroos: control government cared about the education and training needs of young people in our community, they would Ms GREEN (Yan Yean) — This morning I call on ensure that the funding for the Berwick trades career the Minister for Environment and Climate Change to centre is included in the coming state budget. Our take action to suspend and withdraw the Department of community and our young people deserve nothing less. Sustainability and Environment’s issuing of permits to Northern Melbourne Institute of TAFE to cull South Barwon Football and Netball Club 300 kangaroos at Eden Park within the Yan Yean electorate and withdraw any permits already issued. It Mr KATOS (South Barwon) — On Saturday I had is extremely disappointing that the DSE has issued cull the pleasure of attending the season launch of the South permits in this instance without consulting the local Barwon Football and Netball Club. There is no doubt community. This is a sensitive environmental issue that it has been one of the most successful clubs in which has raised considerable concern in the Geelong Football League history, winning the 2001, community. Residents have expressed their anguish 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009 and 2010 premierships. over the welfare of kangaroo populations and the lack of notification and consultation with the community. I was also very humbled, along with Margaret Many residents in Whittlesea and district remain Whealan, to be made the club’s no. 1 ticket-holder for traumatised following the fires of Black Saturday, and the 2011 season. Congratulations to club president the loss of kangaroo families is simply another symbol Richard Holz on organising a fantastic event. I wish the of loss and damage to our community’s fragile club every success for the 2011 season. environment.

Barwon Heads Bowling Club: 40th anniversary The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has advised that it will investigate all reports Mr KATOS — On Sunday I attended the of animal cruelty in the kangaroo cull. I call on the 40th anniversary of the Barwon Heads Bowling Club. It department to provide information to the residents of was a good old-fashioned community afternoon, with the city of Whittlesea on the following questions: how the clubrooms filled to capacity. The first Barwon many kangaroos are to be shot; who will do the Heads Bowling Club committee was formed in 1971 shooting and what expertise do they have; how will the and included Mr John Van Den Eykel, who is a life culling be monitored and recorded; how is it decided member and still bowls at the club today. I would like what kangaroos are shot — male, female or joeys; what to congratulate men’s president Les Jennings, women’s will happen to joeys that are orphaned in this process; president Sandra Green and executive officer Maureen how will neighbours be notified; and, importantly, how Brooks. The club now has around 120 active members. will their safety be protected? I wish the Barwon Heads Bowling Club every success over the next 40 years. In 2005 I was involved in a similar case in the shire of Nillumbik, and there were new protocols adopted by Deakin University: funding the then Minister for the Environment, John Thwaites, Mr KATOS — I am proud that there is already an which protected the kangaroo populations and the excellent working relationship between the Baillieu community. I call on the government to adopt these government and Deakin University. Last week the protocols, protect the local community and protect the Baillieu government announced $10.2 million to go kangaroos at Eden Park. towards 311 new beds for student accommodation at World Autism Awareness Day Deakin University’s Waurn Ponds campus. Approximately 70 per cent of students who study in Mr WATT (Burwood) — On Saturday, 2 April, I regional Victoria stay in the region in which they study. joined approximately 1500 Victorians, including the Minister for Community Services, in a walk from I would also like to welcome the Victorian Peanut Farm Reserve to the lower esplanade in government’s announcement of $7 million towards a St Kilda. The walk was in recognition of World Autism new regional community health hub at Deakin Awareness Day and coincided with the release of University’s Geelong campus. The health hub is thousands of multicoloured balloons representing the expected to accommodate 1500 new students and individuality of those with autism spectrum disorder. I 172 new staff — — congratulate Murray Dawson-Smith and Autism The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The Victoria for organising the walk. member’s time has expired.

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I would like to mention the work of Matt Hore who This realisation prompted Ms Gomez-Benitez, a organised a walk of the Kokoda Track in October this Sunshine West resident, to organise a mental health year to raise money and awareness of autism. I am sure forum at Glengala Community Centre last Friday. The that all those touched by autism would join me in forum is open to all residents in the region. Speakers thanking Matt for his efforts. included Vanessa Couzens, sharing her experience of mental illness, and Janet Glover, manager of Mind’s Roberts McCubbin Primary School: Japan gift Building Family Skills Together. Stress, psychosis, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia were among the Mr WATT — I recently visited Roberts McCubbin topics that were discussed. Vanessa talked about her Primary School in my electorate and was joined by the experiences and how friends and family have helped Minister for Education. Roberts McCubbin students her through the journey, according to the stories that have been making paper cranes for their fellow she took to the forum. Japanese students as a sign of compassion and optimism following the recent disasters in Japan, This event, like many other events, was organised for something that I am sure will be well received. the purposes of breaking down the barriers of social isolation and was another crucial step in tackling mental Ashburton: community fun day illness. I commend the organisation for its good work and encourage it to continue. Mr WATT — I invite all members, along with members of the Ashburton community, to join in the Margaret Hardy: 80th birthday community fun day on 10 April at Markham Reserve. The day will include a soccer game between Ms CAMPBELL (Pascoe Vale) — Congratulations community members and police as well as a to the kindest, most beautiful and youngest in heart world-record tunnel ball attempt. Everybody is woman in my electorate, who today celebrates the first welcome. anniversary of her 79th birthday. Happy birthday, Mum. Ian and Mena Camier: 60th wedding anniversary MATTER OF PUBLIC IMPORTANCE Mr WATT — I congratulate Ian William and Mena Patience Camier on their 60th wedding anniversary Industrial relations: government policy celebrated on 31 March 2011. What a marvellous milestone. The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The Speaker has accepted a statement from the member for Tarneit Brian and Miriam Cherry: 50th wedding proposing the following matter of public importance for anniversary discussion:

Mr WATT — I congratulate Brian and Miriam That this house condemns the Premier for his sustained attack Cherry on their 50th wedding anniversary celebrated on on Victorian workers through: 31 December 2010. (1) proposing wage increases below inflation for Victorian public sector workers; Mental health: western suburbs forum (2) passing as his first act the Shop Trading Reform Mr LANGUILLER (Derrimut) — I was happy to Amendment (Easter Sunday) Bill 2011; attend the Brimbank mental health forum organised by (3) seeking a reduction in the minimum hours of work for the Latino-American Women’s Association of Victoria. young people; and People living in communities in the western suburbs are susceptible to suffering mental illness in silence, (4) constraining wage increases for Victoria’s lowest paid workers. according to community leaders. The Latino-American Women’s Association of Victoria coordinator Cecilia Mr PALLAS (Tarneit) — It gives me great pleasure Gomez-Benitez said the stigma around mental illness to address this chamber in respect of the matter of keeps many people from discussing the matter with public importance. At the outset I make the point that anyone, even friends and family. She said: this is a government which in many ways sought to We cannot say anything if we are suffering. People are afraid obtain the high office of government in this great state to accept they have a mental illness, to go out and find the in misleading and contrived circumstances. It told the help they need. people of Victoria, in what effectively constituted a

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948 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 commitment, that it was about making sure that Honourable members interjecting. Victoria’s welfare and wellbeing would be protected. Of course it has failed to deliver the high standard it set The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! for itself. Mr PALLAS — One of the most important dates in To demonstrate exactly how far this government has terms of festivities and religious belief has in effect fallen below the level of expectation, I will quote a been made a day on which workers can be made to Scottish essayist, Thomas Carlyle, who once wrote in work while receiving only ordinary Sunday rates of relation to wages: pay. All the government had to do to show one shred of compassion for working people was to ensure that it at A fair day’s wages for a fair day’s work: it is as just a demand least had the day gazetted as a public holiday, but those as governed men — opposite could not bring themselves to do it. and women in our case — What else has the government done? It has sought a ever made of governing. reduction in the minimum hours of work for young people, and it has constrained wage increases for Just pay for their work should be something that is a Victoria’s lowest paid workers. There is no real matter of bipartisan acknowledgement as the right and commitment to a fair day’s wages for a fair day’s pay entitlement of every working person. The right to a fair for Victorians — — day’s wages for a fair day’s work is something that the Labor Party has for many years sought to achieve for Ms Ryall — On a point of order, Deputy Speaker, I both men and women in the state of Victoria and right believe the member is reading from his notes. across the country. It is a core belief of the group of men and women who sit on this side of the chamber. It The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! Is the is not so for the men and women who sit opposite and member reading from his notes? their leader, Premier Baillieu. Mr PALLAS — Less than the transport minister Since its election to office this government has shown was yesterday, but let me say — — time and again that it is prepared to break promises and The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! Can the that it is prepared to break the hearts of the working member confirm that he is referring to notes? people who put so much faith in the coalition at the last election. So far the achievements of the Victorian Mr PALLAS — I am referring to notes. government include its proposed wage increases at a rate that is below inflation for Victorian public sector The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member workers. So much for the commitment to assist for Tarneit, to continue. working people! Mr PALLAS — Here we are in a position where Mr Clark interjected. we have a government that is in effect prepared for its principles to be constrained. Let us think for a moment Mr PALLAS — I hear from the minister at the table about where this government has let Victorians down that that is not right. Of course the minister will at some and what its philosophical predisposition is. Let us not stage rise and explain to us how an offer of 2.5 per cent forget — — is anything other than a reduction in real wages. Ms Ryall — On a point of order, Deputy Speaker, I We then saw the government pass as its first act the believe the member is reading from his notes. Easter Sunday trading bill, which will be crippling for Victoria’s small retailers as they will be forced to open The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! Members are under the changed requirements. Let us not forget what permitted to refer to notes but not to read whole this will mean for employees on Easter Sunday. The speeches. I ask the member for Tarneit to confirm two days before Easter Sunday and the two days after whether he is reading from notes. Easter Sunday will be public holidays, but without even a shred of introspection this government has shown that Mr PALLAS — I am referring to my notes, Deputy it does not care that workers will be required to work on Speaker. Easter Sunday without even being afforded public holiday rates of pay. What an outrage! It is a The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member demonstration of this government’s priorities. for Tarneit, to continue.

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Mr PALLAS — Let us not forget the observations individual choice over collective bargaining even when that the now Minister for Public Transport made when it comes to a worker seeking to get just pay for their he compared workers to dogs in this chamber. He said: work, as Thomas Carlyle said.

It is possible for a dog to replace two people on a farm. On a On 10 August 2006 in this place the now Premier said, big farm a farmer would pay $30 000 a year for each labourer ‘WorkChoices is about two things — work and hired. A dog would not attract any WorkCover premiums, superannuation, holiday pay or sick leave entitlements. It choices’. He went on to say that WorkChoices: would never complain, and it is cheap and easy to maintain. It is hard to replace that type of value-added source of farming … provides them — income. employers and employees — There you go. Members have heard from the now with the prospect of flexibility — and they can choose. They Minister for Public Transport, who is now known by can choose their collective arrangements. They can choose to working people throughout the state as Old Two Dogs. be represented. They can choose to do it the minister’s We have heard his basic belief that you can compare way — the productive value of workers to that of dogs. In many ways we see nothing other than a continued as it then was — diminution of the contribution working people have if they want to. They can also choose to represent themselves made to this state’s productivity. with AWAs and be part of a flexible system. On WorkChoices and AWAs (Australian workplace … agreements) we know exactly where those opposite WorkChoices offers Victorians the capacity to control their stand. They support antiworker legislation, as we see, working relationships. for example, from what the now Minister for Corrections said on 10 August 2006 in this place: I do not believe you would ever hear anything more ludicrous, anything further from what is the reality of … when you compare award conditions with conditions the interaction between a worker and an employer, and under an AWA, you are almost universally better off under an AWA. anything that could be any more patrician in its perspective. That is very interesting, because work has been done comparing this in a considered way — that is, when We know by the voting record of this government ideology has not been the motivating factor behind the exactly where it stands when worker legislation is comparison. Professors David Peetz and Alison Preston brought before this place. We can look at all the bills conducted a study in July 2007 in which they found that that the now government opposed when it was in the median AWA worker earnt 16.3 per cent less than opposition — bills such as the Federal Awards the median EBA (enterprise bargaining agreement) (Uniform System) Act 2003, the Outworkers worker. They found that men on median AWA (Improved Protection) (Amendment) Act 2005, the earnings earnt 15.4 per cent less on AWAs than on Owner Drivers and Forestry Contractors Act 2005, the EBAs. They also found that typically Victorian workers Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004, the Child not on collective agreements earnt 23 per cent less than Employment Act 2003, the Long Service Leave workers on collective agreements, which reflected the (Amendment) Act 2003, the Long Service Leave industry composition of employment in Victoria and (Preservation of Entitlements) Act 2006, the different patterns of AWA uptake by industry. Construction Industry Long Service Leave (Amendment) Act 2004, the Workplace Rights Putting aside ideology, overwhelmingly what we see is Advocate Act 2005, the Public Sector Employment that if you deny the fact that there is a difference in (Award Entitlements) Act 2006, the Working with bargaining position and you put workers in a position Children Act 2005, the Victorian Workers’ Wages where they have to bargain with their employer, then of Protection Act 2007, the Equal Opportunity course workers will lose out when they are on their own Amendment (Family Responsibilities) Act 2008 and because the bargaining position and economic power an the Equal Opportunity Amendment Act 2007. It is a list employer wields is far superior than anything an of shame which demonstrates that this government’s isolated worker can muster. That is why the state has to preferences and priorities are clearly constrained. Its maintain a role of moderating and regulating fair and view is that what it really should be doing is providing effective outcomes. That is where this government has rights and entitlements to employers and businesses, so far failed Victorian workers. In effect it has indicated and it shrouds its disdain and lack of concern for that it will continue to be supportive of the idea of

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950 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 working people by hiding behind a mantra of ‘freedom has been moved in this house, one need only look at of choice’. item 2 of the honourable member’s matter of public importance. He claims that the Premier passed as his During the election the Premier and the member for first act the Shop Trading Reform Amendment (Easter Doncaster, who is now the Minister for Women’s Sunday) Bill 2011. That is absolutely factually untrue. Affairs and the Minister for Community Services, One need only look at the Legislative Council Hansard promised a pay rise to the community sector if it was to see that it is not true. One can see at page 478 of ordered by Fair Work Australia, even if the budget for Hansard of Tuesday, 22 March, that the first piece of it went over $200 million over four years. However, legislation passed through this Parliament was in fact following the election the Premier and the Minister for the Shrine of Remembrance Amendment Bill 2011. It is Community Services suddenly backflipped on the just plain factually wrong. If the member cannot get the promise and in effect abandoned that commitment to basics right, how can he expect the rest of his motion to community workers, who are predominantly female. have any credibility? That should come as no surprise. It is more evidence that the government supports the big end of town and Just in case the honourable member and his colleagues pursues antiworker policies. That was seen in the first want to try to weasel out of that and say they are talking act it passed after coming to government and its refusal about the first piece of legislation to end up on the to enable public holidays entitlements. statute book, that is wrong again. The first bill to end up as the first act of 2011 on the statute book is the Civil The government has set its colours to its mast. I will Procedure and Legal Profession Amendment Act 2011. refer back to its fundamental philosophical The honourable member has not done his homework predisposition and quote a Liberal in the small ‘l’ sense and has not got his facts right. His matter has no of the word, the founding father of the Liberal Party. In credibility whatsoever. his famous 1942 speech, The Forgotten People, Robert Menzies talked about people being more than mere Let us go through the rest of the items that the member calculations in an economic equation. He went on to for Tarneit has put in the motion. Item 1 relates to the say in his last address to the Liberal Party federal government’s wages policy. The fact of the matter is council in 1964 that individual welfare and the that we have basically continued the policy of the development of men and women must be the main previous Brumby government. Under the previous concern of government. Whatever happened to the government’s policy the initial guideline increase was Liberal Party that Robert Menzies founded? Where is 2.5 per cent. That was introduced by the previous the concern for individual men and women? It is lost, government in 2009, and it is being continued by the because the Liberal Party is valueless. That is not the current government. The singular difference between creed of the Premier and his team, which has our wages position and that of the previous government effectively undermined the coalition’s commitment to is that increases above that 2.5 per cent need to be more police numbers and to real wage increases. The matched by genuine productivity savings, unlike the Liberal Party gave a commitment to teachers that they charades the previous government often engaged in. would be the highest paid in the country, but we have seen nothing of it. We are more than happy to arrive at a figure above the 2.5 per cent starting point guideline, as long as it is The Premier has never in this chamber uttered the accompanied by genuine productivity savings. We words ‘wage’ and ‘increase’ in the same sentence. That would welcome that, because we are looking for a shows where his priorities lie. He has absolutely no flexible, innovative and productive workforce. The concern for working people. It is about time that this honourable members opposite should stop crying government lived up to its policies and its promises and crocodile tears over this matter. Let me make a further looked after working people in this state. point about the 2.5 per cent starting point guideline. It is consistent with many other states around the nation, Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) — What a including Labor-governed states. There is nothing out laborious effort by the member for Tarneit! He tried to of the ordinary on that point. It is a continuation of the mount an attack on the government, but it is clear his position of the previous government. heart was not in it. He obviously drew the short straw in caucus and was sent out to mount this weak, rostered Let us leave aside the honourable member’s basic error attack without being committed to it. about the Easter Sunday trading bill being the first act passed under the new government and look at the issue If one wants to see any evidence of the lack of of substance. The debate on this point revisits the issues commitment and the lack of attention to the motion that that were argued before this house in relation to the

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 951 legislation itself. The position adopted by the previous people across Victoria not have the opportunity to earn government was riddled with flaws and anomalies. On some money after school hours in the way they have the one hand it had a piece of legislation, and on the done traditionally. This will be a real acid test of where other hand it had a list of exemptions as long as your the hearts, souls and commitment of those opposite lie. arm. There is no fundamental issue of principle on which those opposite can seek to take a stand on that Let us look at the last ridiculous point that has been matter. raised in this motion by the member for Tarneit in relation to the national wage case submission being Let us have a look at the third item on the honourable made by the Victorian government. The accusations member’s list: minimum hours of work for young being made by the member are completely off the people. In effect what those opposite are saying is that mark. The Victorian government has indeed made a they do not want school students to have the submission to Fair Work Australia for the national opportunity to have employment after school hours. minimum wage case review. We have been supporting The so-called Fair Work legislation, put in place by a responsible increase in minimum wages. The their federal counterparts, has led to award conditions government believes the national wage review outcome that make it practically impossible for young people to needs to promote a strong Victorian economy, be get — — conducive to sustained employment growth and the creation of real Victorian jobs to foster competitive and Ms Hennessy interjected. productive workplaces and facilitate the determination of conditions by employers and employees at the The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member enterprise level. We said in our submission that Fair for Altona will cease interjecting in that manner. Work Australia needs to have regard to a variety of Mr CLARK — It will become practically factors in settling a new minimum wage and in any impossible for young people to get a start in the determination it makes to vary the modern award workforce through working during after-school hours, minimum wages. as many generations have done for years and years. It The sorts of factors we have been talking about are the gives a win-win opportunity. It is a win for a young performance and competitiveness of the national and person, who can earn some money while being a Victorian economies, including the impact on Victorian student, learn the ways of the workforce, build up their businesses and regional economies, easing economic experience and training and get a good start in life. It is conditions in Victoria, the provision of a safety net that a win for young people to have that opportunity. It is encourages bargaining between employers and also a win for small businesses and other businesses employees at the local enterprise, the needs of the lower across the state, which can have young and enthusiastic paid — we have emphasised that point in our people coming into the workforce, getting some submission — and the need to encourage high levels of experience through their after-school-hours work and workplace participation. We have been arguing for a taking the opportunity to be productive members of the fair and responsible outcome in the national wage case workforce going forward. review.

What are those opposite and their federal counterparts For Labor members to say that we are acting against seeking to do? They are saying that under their scheme providing appropriately for the interests of Victoria’s young people would not be allowed to work after lowest paid workers is just utter hypocrisy, because school hours to earn a few dollars in the way that they, when we look at the submission made by the Brumby their parents and grandparents and generations before Labor government to the national minimum wage case them have done. They brought in that initiative as part review last year, we see it made very similar points to of the Fair Work package, but they failed to the points that are being made by the current acknowledge the injustice and the anomaly in doing so. government. The previous government called on Fair The retailers have tried to get some sense into it, and Work Australia to consider the economic impact of any the Victorian government has been backing them in that increase in minimum wages. When it was in effort. What we need to hear from honourable members government it said that Fair Work Australia needs to opposite during the course of this debate is whether or have regard to economic impact, as it should and as the not they are going to stand up for Victorian school current government is. We are exactly maintaining the students and employers and for opportunities for young position in that respect that was being maintained by people in Victoria and whether they are going to the previous government. For members opposite to support getting this ridiculous anomaly in the suddenly change their tune shows the hypocrisy, legislation fixed or whether they want to see young

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952 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 inconsistency and lack of responsibility they are The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member showing now that they are in opposition. was not on her feet and the house calls the member who is standing. I asked for further speakers to encourage The previous government said specifically that there the member to stand, but she did not rise and I was then needed to be an economically sustainable increase for bound to call the member who was on their feet. The low-income earners in the increases that were provided. speaking lists are for the guidance of the Chair only. It It also said that the increase needed to reflect prevailing is up to members to be ready to stand. I have called the economic and social conditions. It made the point that member for Ferntree Gully. that was necessary in order to ensure that a balance was made between the outcome for workers and employers. Mr WAKELING — Thank you, Deputy Speaker. That is exactly the point that the current government is Certainly members on this side of the house are keen to making and asking Fair Work Australia to consider. participate in the debate.

As I have been saying, what members opposite need to It gives me pleasure to rise to contribute to the debate demonstrate now that they are in opposition is whether on this matter of public importance (MPI). I or not they are going to act responsibly in the interests congratulate the Attorney-General, who spoke before of Victorians, whether they are going to act responsibly me, on his contribution. in seeking a fair and balanced outcome from Fair Work Australia, whether they are going to act responsibly in I acknowledge that the performance of the member for standing up for young Victorian workers and defending Tarneit was a little half-hearted. I have heard better their right to get opportunities in the workforce through contributions in this house by the member, who was a working after hours, whether they are going to continue former minister, but clearly this is not an issue that he is to support the policy on public sector wages which they passionate about. Obviously someone in the Leader of followed when they were in government or whether in the Opposition’s office has tapped him on the shoulder opposition all that approach is to go out of the window, and said, ‘This is your turn to speak. Go out; here are and whether they are going to accept that their Easter some prepared notes, do your best’. Clearly his best Sunday trading policy was absolutely riddled with was not that great, and he did not realise that point 2 of anomalies and caused all sorts of difficulties for the the MPI prepared in his name — and I am assuming Victorian economy, particularly in regional Victoria. now he had nothing to do with it because he is walking away from it at a million miles an hour — concerning This matter of public importance (MPI) is ultimately a the first act passed in this Parliament being the Easter matter about responsibility and the credibility of the Sunday trading bill was wrong. I am happy to come to opposition and whether it is going to attempt to that in a moment as part of my contribution. maintain any degree of respectability and coherence in its position or whether it is going to resort to every wild It is interesting to hear those opposite talk about and intemperate argument that it can come up with industrial relations in this place. I am reminded that without regard to a consistent and appropriate policy back in 1996 the Kennett government ceded industrial position and abandoning the things that it was saying relations powers to the federal government. At that time just a few months ago when it was in government. those opposite were bleating about the supposedly parlous state of industrial relations in this state. One As I said at the outset, the member for Tarneit does not would have thought the first thing they would have seem to have his heart in this MPI. His contribution was done would have been to reintroduce the state award one of the most laborious and uninspiring critiques of system for Victorians — other states had state awards an MPI that I have come across and shows the systems, and the Kennett government had abolished the complete lack of credibility of the matter the member state award system — but no, the first thing the Bracks has put before the house. government did was to create an industrial relations task force chaired by Professor Ron McCallum, an The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! Are there no eminent and respected industrial relations professor, further speakers? I call the member for Ferntree Gully. who came up with a proposal for the Fair Employment Bill. What became of the Fair Employment Bill? Mr WAKELING (Ferntree Gully) — Thank you, History will tell us nothing. Interestingly, the then Deputy Speaker. government changed its tune, saying, ‘In fact, we want Ms Hennessy — On a point of order, Deputy to continue with having a federally regulated industrial Speaker, the member for Thomastown was actually in relations system’. her place, standing, before you called the member for Ferntree Gully.

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Those opposite talk about WorkChoices. Those who Did he make that call in 2009? Or in 2007? In 2006 he have actually worked in the industrial relations field — was not a member, but was it done by members such as and there are some on the other side who I know have the member for Melton, who is sitting in the chamber been industrial relations practitioners — would be well and who was a member in 2006, 2005, 2004 and 2003? aware that the federal government utilised the constitution’s corporations power to facilitate Clearly the answer is no. Those opposite were more WorkChoices for incorporated organisations. The only than happy to allow people who worked in hot bread reason unincorporated businesses in the state of kitchens, in service stations, at Bunnings or for myriad Victoria were covered by WorkChoices was that the other small organisations across this state to work on former government was agreeing that those businesses Easter Sunday and not receive a public holiday rate. be covered by WorkChoices as part of its referral. At Then — shock, horror! — those opposite lost any point in time those opposite, who had the numbers government, and now all of a sudden it is our fault that in both houses, could have introduced legislation to people are working on Easter Sunday and not getting remove the referral and to create an industrial relations public holiday rates. Those opposite had years to deal system that included an award system for with this issue. unincorporated businesses. You just have to look at their wages policy. This Despite all the bleating and protestations of those government has adopted the policy that was opposite, for 11 years they did nothing. What they did implemented by the former government. John Brumby, was to create the workplace rights advocate. The the former Premier, and John Lenders, the former member for Tarneit was preaching about the benefits of Treasurer, who is a member for the Southern the workplace rights advocate, but those of us in who Metropolitan Region — the people who ran the ship, were in the 56th Parliament will recall that the former believed it was appropriate and developed the government took actions to abolish the workplace rights guidelines and established the principles of a 2.5 per advocate. cent wage increase. That increase was not established by this government, which simply inherited the system As a former industrial relations practitioner I attended a established by those opposite. forum convened by the advocate where the question ‘What was the greatest achievement of the Office of the Those opposite have come into this chamber thinking Workplace Rights Advocate?’ was asked. Its this was the matter of public importance that was going representatives stood up there and said how fantastic it to bring the government down. However, this is a lazy was that they had referred a number of issues to the opposition that could not even work out what the first federal department of workplace relations. Their act of Parliament passed under this government was. I greatest achievement was to pick up a phone and call would be more than happy to move an amendment to the federal department, which, funnily enough, fix the mess for them, but given that this is their MPI, I regulated workplace relations, and say, ‘Here are some will let those opposite move the amendment to fix this people with issues; can you please investigate these mess. Those opposite sit there and moan, whine and matters for us?’. For all the hype and the millions of carp, but when they were in government they could dollars that those opposite wasted, all they had to show have done a lot more if they actually believed in this was a phone advisory service that effectively referred stuff — but their heart was not in it. people from a state government department to a federal government department. What a crock! What a waste! The minimum number of hours for work were raised by It belies the manner in which those opposite claim they a young person on the Neil Mitchell radio program. He dealt with industrial relations in this state. had gone to his business and said, ‘I want to work’, and the business owner had said, ‘You are not allowed to I heard the member for Tarneit talking about Easter work because of the law’. A campaign was run; they Sunday trading. I would like the member to explain to tried to get the federal government to change the law, someone who worked at Bunnings last year on Easter but it refused to participate. All we are doing is standing Sunday under legislation that was introduced and up for young people and giving them an opportunity to established by those opposite why that person was work if they want to work. I will stand up in this place allowed to work on Easter Sunday and not get public and support that. holiday rates. The question I would like that person to ask the member for Tarneit is: when did the member for Ms HALFPENNY (Thomastown) — I rise to add Tarneit stand up in this house calling upon the my voice in condemnation of the Premier, who leads a government to introduce legislation to establish Easter government that seems hell-bent on attacking Victorian Sunday as a public holiday? Did he do that in 2010? workers on all fronts in spite of its attempts to hide its

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954 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 real intentions behind rhetoric and slippery words. I do about an adjustment to compensate for the increasing so not just as a trade unionist but also because I believe cost of living and the soaring price of basic necessities. in the standards of fairness and equity held by most This is about getting a fairer share of the economic pie. Victorians, who do not believe that the sort of thing this government is doing is right. The government’s submission cautions Fair Work Australia on awarding an increase to minimum rates It seems the Liberal and National parties and their because in its opinion it may hurt employers. It also leaders really cannot change their spots. Just looking at argues that workers in regional areas are the lowest paid leaders from the not-so-distant past we see John and that they should stay that way. It is regional Howard and his vicious antipeople WorkChoices laws, workers who have most to gain — or, if the and former Premier Jeff Kennett, who ripped up government has its way, the most to lose — in the minimum standards of working conditions for some of minimum wage review. So now we get a glimpse of the the most vulnerable, slashed pay and privatised public real coalition conservative government, which is a very services. We are still paying for the damage he wreaked different picture to the spin of the 2011 Victorian especially on those living in the Latrobe Valley and on Families Statement that was given by the Premier less women who required refuge because of domestic than two months ago. The Premier said that his violence and who had nowhere to go because of statement was for families, whatever form they take, funding cuts. because this coalition government governs for all Victorians. That is not true. Now the Baillieu-Ryan government is showing its true colours and going down the same path of reducing the The government is not governing for the families of the rights of working people and their families. Already it low paid, for working families in regional Victoria, for has cut penalty rates and work rights on Easter Sunday, families of public sector workers or for our kids who and it should be condemned for that. Already the have entered or will soon be entering the workforce. government has announced cuts to real wages to The Premier tells us in his statement that families thrive teachers, nurses, police and public servants, and it best when their most basic of needs are met and that the should be condemned for that. Already it has government will better represent the interests of announced that Victoria’s youngest workers — Victorian families. Yet when it really matters, when schoolchildren working part-time around their families really need government support to maintain the studies — will have their minimum shifts cut in half so most basic of living standards, this government lets that with their already low wages they will struggle to them down. cover the cost of travel and the time taken to get to and from work, and the government should be condemned For those who may not be aware of it, the current for that. minimum wage rate for an adult is $15 per hour — or $29 600 a year. The junior rate can be almost half of Already the government has announced a backflip on this. That is in spite of the $28 or so awarded at the last its commitments to fund equal pay in the community review, and according to the most conservative of sector, demanding that workers, the low paid and the definitions it is below the poverty line, but we do not poor pay for equality through cuts to services, and the see anything about that in the government’s submission Baillieu-Ryan government should be condemned for to Fair Work Australia. To put it into context, it is an that. Here we are a little more than 120 days into the annual wage that is less than the annual electorate Baillieu project, which is designed to fix the problems allowance paid to members to provide visitors with tea and build the future, and — surprise, surprise! — it and scones, to attend conferences and functions and to turns out that the Premier will not be governing for all reimburse them for general small-change items. That Victorians as he promised. allowance is more than the amount received by low-paid workers. Yet the government argues caution Let me turn to the Victorian government’s submission in deliberations on the awarding of a modest lifting of to the Fair Work Australia annual wage review that the minimum wage rate. determines the wage increases, if any, for the lowest paid workers in the country. Guess what? The Coming back to the families statement, the government Baillieu-Ryan government’s submission is less than complains about high Victorian taxes, but our taxes are supportive of a fair and adequate increase to the safety subsidising employers so they do not have to pay a net minimum wage or award rates of pay. The wage that working people can actually live on. I am government has said that the best way to provide for the new to this place, having been elected in November last needs of the low paid is to facilitate employment — but year, but I get around to various people and these people are already working. We are talking here organisations in the Thomastown electorate — —

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 955

Mr Battin — On a point of order, Deputy Speaker, I Victorians now so it can be judged, and I am sure draw your attention to the fact that the member for condemned, by Victorian workers and their families. Thomastown seems to be reading her speech. Mr NEWTON-BROWN (Prahran) — The member The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! Is the for Tarneit suggests that the Liberal coalition has member reading her speech or referring to notes? engaged in a sustained attack on workers. In 100 short days and three weeks of the sitting of the Parliament, Ms HALFPENNY — I am referring to notes. apparently we have engaged in an attack on workers — and not just an attack but a sustained attack. The motion The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! I believe the implies that the Labor Party is the great friend of the member is referring to notes. worker in Victoria, but it had 11 years to show how Ms HALFPENNY — The Thomastown electorate strong that friendship was. covers Fawkner, Lalor, Reservoir and Thomastown. I Let us have a look at what the Labor Party did for see the daily struggles of many people on low wages. workers and what it did to the Victorian economy to They are earnest people trying to get by on the create meaningful jobs for Victorian workers in those minimum wage. Many are women now single due to 11 years. One area which it is useful to look at is the marriage breakdown or because their children have area of innovation. This is an area where, with the right grown up and moved out of home. At this point they do government input, significant new jobs can be not receive the family income supplements any more. generated. They are working, yet their largest bills — rent and utility costs — are still the same, and they are having It is an area where jobs can be created which are trouble getting by. meaningful to workers and provide great opportunities for career advancement. Under Labor we had plenty of Last night in this chamber the member for Benalla said rhetoric for 11 years, but it failed to chart a way that many in the coalition government had come from forward for innovation in this state. It failed to provide humble beginnings, but that has not made the opportunities for workers in new jobs and new government more tolerant, more understanding or more industries. It ignored the needs of young Victorians supportive of the need to lift the minimum wage, to who would prefer the creation of meaningful jobs rather protect young workers and public holidays or to than members such as the member for Thomastown recognise and remunerate our public sector workers. On squabbling about how many extra cents per dollar they the contrary; the government seems to have hardened should be paid for working in a job they do not like. its resolve to push through this agenda to slice back the rights and conditions of Victorian workers and their The view of the Liberals is that the state government families. The government could not keep a lid on its should allow innovation to flourish. In the course of our real agenda for too long. It has been in office for a little government this house will see the Liberal government over four months, and the cat is out of the bag. It is not fostering the passion of innovators in our community. It governing and does not intend to govern for all will be assisting them to fulfil their vision and creating Victorians at all. an economic environment where their ideas can grow. It will be helping to deliver sustained economic Judging from an article in the Australian Financial prosperity by providing research infrastructure, putting Review yesterday, there is one hard-nosed, antiworker resources into education to inspire and motivate warrior from old who will be proud of this government. students — — Do members remember Peter Reith? He is the person who organised balaclava-hooded thugs carrying iron Mr Nardella interjected. bars on the waterfront. They were hired to carry out the orders of Patrick Stevedores and other employers on the Mr NEWTON-BROWN — Let us talk about waterfront to smash workers’ rights and challenge teachers; let us talk about education — maths and democracy and decency. Mr Reith is now urging science. Under the former Labor government maths and coalition members of Parliament and business leaders science was an area in which Victorian school students to put practical reform back on the agenda. He is were well below the national average. The expressing disappointment that the coalition has not Baillieu-Ryan government is going to invest money in made a concerted effort to argue that individual that area, where in the past it was neglected. We will contracts are a good idea, especially for young people. give our kids maths and science teachers who are on a If this is where this government is heading, it should tell par with those in the rest of the country. We will reward enterprise; we will increase research and development

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956 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 investment, inspire the next generation of innovators Labor blamed the liquor licensees for the and encourage the best and brightest of Australia’s out-of-control, alcohol-fuelled violence. The licensees expatriates to come back to Australia. What comes out were the scapegoats for the problems of the last of all this investment in innovation by the Liberal government. Look at the 2.00 a.m. lockout. What a coalition government? We grow the pie for Victoria. failure; what a shameful passing of the buck to small We do not squabble about petty issues such as those business in the state. The previous government that have been raised by many members in the house demonised those small business owners because Labor today. We grow the pie and we create meaningful jobs had lost control of law and order on our streets. for Victorians for the future. Ms Green — On a point of order, Acting Speaker, Another good area to look at in this debate is liquor the member for Prahran appears to be reading from a licensing, an area which also provides great potential document, and I ask him to make it available. for employment. The jobs are less skilled than some of the jobs that can be created in the innovation sector, but The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Tilley) — Order! Is they are nonetheless jobs that are very important for the member for Prahran reading from notes? There is Victorians. In 100 short days we have provided a stable no point of order. environment for liquor licensees. Members would not believe the number of people who have stopped me in Mr NEWTON-BROWN — The 2.00 a.m. lockout the street in my electorate of Prahran and said, ‘We are did not even work. KPMG evaluated it, and its report so glad that Michael O’Brien is now the minister in on post-midnight hospital admissions for assault stated charge of the liquor licensing area’. When the member that there was actually an increase after 2.00 a.m. That for Malvern took on the portfolio he acted swiftly to cut strategy did not even work. liquor licence fees by half. This action was delivered to What about the impact on those small businesses and liquor licensees in Victoria within months. We eased their workers? It was collateral damage. Many small the financial pressures on these small businesses and businesses went under at that time, the most ensured that they could thrive and prosper. We high-profile one being the Tote Hotel. The Tote was introduced a fairer regime for liquor licensees that closed due to the unrealistic expectations of the recognises and respects the role they play in providing previous government that businesses would employ employment for so many young Victorians. large numbers of security guards. The previous On the other hand, let us turn our minds back to last government was passing the buck again. It was virtually year — just 100 short days ago. What was the saying, ‘Let us blame the venues; let us make them employment environment like for these small employ more security guards and we can say that it is businesses then? What did the government do to ensure their problem. They are the problem, and they can fix that the tens of thousands of young people who work in the problem’. this industry had jobs? Under Labor holding a liquor The Tote has thankfully opened under new owners, but licence became unaffordable for many businesses. let us not forget about those working at the Tote at that From 2008 many sports and community clubs had their time who lost their jobs as a direct result of Labor fees increased by over 1000 per cent. Labor oversaw a government policy. Let us not forget that the former $20 million increase in the state government take from government’s own report showed that there was no link liquor licensing fees, and what did licensees get for it? between alcohol-fuelled violence and live music. Let us Nothing. There was no return to businesses. They not forget that many of the venues that were impacted received nothing to invest back into their businesses, upon had no record of violence. It did not matter. They which would then have helped their workers. It was were there to solve a problem — to be the scapegoat for shameful. The government attached itself to this the previous government — and the workers were the industry like a leech and sucked it dry. It did not care collateral damage. Many young workers became about the collateral damage; it did not care about the innocent victims in the dying days of the last workers employed in those licensed premises. Many government, as it flailed around trying to find someone businesses gave up their licences, and the jobs went but itself to blame for the mess that Victoria had with them. What did Labor do? become.

Mr Nardella — Like who? This is no sustained attack on Victorian workers. In the Mr NEWTON-BROWN — Like who? The Tote. course of the Baillieu-Ryan government we will see the The Tote Hotel has reopened, but I will get to that in a business environment improve and the number of minute. It is just one example.

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 957 jobs — and meaningful jobs — grow. We will not see when you can usually guarantee that you will see them petty squabbling from this side of the house. and they will spend the day with you: Christmas and Easter. However, the chances are that kids who have Ms HUTCHINS (Keilor) — I rise to speak on the part-time jobs in the retail or hospitality sectors will be matter of public importance put forward by the member forced to work, because those who are a little brighter for Tarneit, which says in part that the house condemns or smarter and have been in the workforce longer the Premier for his sustained attack on Victorian would have already rostered themselves off. The workers. There is a myth in society that generation Y Baillieu government’s choice of this bill as one of the and generation Z, the new generation entering the first to be passed demonstrates its lack of understanding workforce, do not want to work. Why would they be of what it is like to work in the retail sector. I doubt that motivated to work under the changes the government is the Premier has ever worked on Easter Sunday. currently pushing? If workers are rostered on Easter Sunday, they will not get penalty rates. In fact young The other part of the government’s attack on Victorian workers in the retail sector will probably be pushed into workers is on public sector workers and their wages. working on Easter Sunday. Will they ever aspire to Before the election many promises to look after work in the public sector when the pay increase offer is workers were made, but they have not come to fruition. 2.5 per cent with lots of trade-offs? When the minimum We are 120 or so days into the government’s term and shifts for young workers will be cut from 3 hours to we have a mooted offer of a 2.5 per cent wage rise, 1.5 hours, what is the motivation for young Victorians with productivity savings that put cash in the bank. to work? This is clearly an attack on them. What does that really mean? What is a productivity saving in the public sector? Is it about how quickly a I wonder where the member for Prahran has been living prison officer locks up an inmate during a riot? Is that a for the last 10 years, because he is certainly out of touch productivity measure? Is it about how many minutes it with Victorian workers. One of the first pieces of this takes for a prison officer to put someone back in jail? Is government’s legislation to pass, the Shop Trading it about how many kids are removed from or returned Reform Amendment (Easter Sunday) Bill 2011, which to their families by a Department of Human Services abolishes Easter Sunday as a public holiday by officer? Will that be a productivity measure? I do not allowing shops to trade, opened the gates for young think the government has any idea about productivity people to be forced to work on Easter Sunday whether when it comes to the public sector, and it certainly has they want to spend time with their family or not. They no idea of the real costs of living for Victorian families will not be given a choice, as it will come down to and the public sector workers who underpin the running whether they want their job or not. of the state.

I spoke to some of the workers at my local Woolworths A 2.5 per cent increase does not cover the gamut of only last week, and I asked them what their views were economic growth. It does not cover mortgage costs, the on Easter Sunday trading. It was the more mature increased cost of petrol and the increased cost of women who said, ‘No, we have rostered ourselves off. communications — that is, mobile phones and the We will not be put in the situation of not being internet — that comes in on top of a household’s compensated for working on that Sunday’. However, weekly grocery bill and its electricity, gas and water the young workers — the 16-year-olds — looked bills. These are the extra costs that are not factored into blankly at me and said, ‘What are you talking about? the consumer price index, but they are a real part of What do you mean we will not get paid penalty rates increased household costs. The federal government has for that Sunday?’. had a look at the real growth for federal public sector worker wages; it is really around 4 per cent, not 2.5 per Honourable members interjecting. cent.

Ms HUTCHINS — Public holidays, forced to We know that the government’s calls for productivity work, not time with their families! Opening shops on gains to be made by public sector workers is code for Easter Sunday will mean that retailers will treat that day cutting conditions. We know that leave loading has like any other day and in most cases will simply roster been costed by the Department of Treasury and Finance people on to work. and will be on the table as a 1.4 per cent saving, As a mother and a stepmother I know what an something that will be attacked in these negotiations. important time Easter is to spend time with kids, The government will try to strip this from public sector particularly teenagers and kids in their early 20s, workers. The productivity cash-in-the-bank clause is because there are really only two times of the year about cutting public sector jobs; that is the reality of it. The Baillieu government is again out of touch, and I

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958 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 condemn this attack on fairness for Victorian public Ms RYALL (Mitcham) — I rise to speak on the sector workers. They were promised the world before matter of public importance submitted by the member the election, but those promises have been left to slide for Tarneit, which must not be important to members of since the election. the Labor Party because most of them are not in the chamber for this debate. If they are not here, how The substandard, retrograde wages offer for Victorian important is this matter to them? Members of the Labor public sector workers provides no growth to the real Party think they have a monopoly on the protection of economy in Victoria. The government has backflipped workers, but interestingly enough I am wondering how on its pre-election promises. It said, ‘We are going to many of those opposite have ever started a business? deliver wage increases to police and make Victorian How many of them have employed people? How many teachers the highest paid’. These are the things the then have lived on a loan with no income to make sure opposition promised. It said it would do better in somebody else had a job? How many? looking after the health system. Nurses are the backbone of the health system. They do a terrific job Honourable members interjecting. caring for Victorians, but Premier Baillieu does not understand their plight. He has probably never been in Ms Graley — Me. the care of a nurse in a public hospital in his life. Ms RYALL — One! That is good to see. As In fact he probably does not even know what minimum someone who has actually started a business and wages are for many of those who work in our public employed people, I know it is not as easy as it seems to sector. A Victorian police officer recruit earns $37 982 those opposite. Most of those opposite think that people in their first year — hardly big bucks. An entry point who run small businesses crunch the gravel on the way project fire officer in the Department of Sustainability to the golf course when running those businesses. How and Environment earns only $38 668. With the current far from the truth that is! Those in small business know cost of living rising and bills and other costs increasing how much we go without, how much we set aside and every week, these basic wages in our public sector do how difficult it is to run such an enterprise. The not stretch very far. An entry level nurse earns $42 536, increasing cost of compliance for small business makes and a first-year entry point correctional officer earns it hard to keep the doors open. $33 182 — about the same as a junior manager at McDonald’s. On the other side of the small business equation sit young kids who want to work for an hour and a half; The race to the bottom begins with the drop in they want to spend their afternoon between the end of minimum hours of work for young people, from school time and the dark evening hours of study and 3 hours to 1.5 hours — 90 minutes. I will tell you what: home time working for an hour and a half. Members of it is not much incentive for young people to drag the former nanny government over there — — themselves to work. Mitchell, a 16-year-old worker in my electorate, travels from Hillside to the Keilor Rd An honourable member — They want the jobs for McDonald’s to work a couple of shifts a week. It takes the paid-up union members. him an hour and a half to get there by public transport. Ms RYALL — That is right. The members of the The wages for an hour and a half are not going to cover former nanny government opposite do not want those his time or travel costs. On behalf of young workers kids to be able to work for an hour and a half. Many of and all the casual workers in my electorate, I condemn us who did work while we were at school know that it this attack on their earnings. taught us a work ethic; it helped us understand what Premier Baillieu’s choice to constrain wage increases work was about. It gave us an income in that period of for Victoria’s lowest paid workers needs to be time, and we liked it. Those opposite would like to take condemned. He has probably never had a job with a that opportunity away. 3-hour minimum restriction on it. He has probably Imagine if a plumber came around to your house to do never had a job which has had a 1.5-hour shift. He says some work. If the job is done within an hour, are those he stands for families. What about these families? What opposite going to insist that the plumber stay for about their jobs? The Premier’s choice to constrain 3 hours? That is not going to happen. These kids want wages for Victoria’s lowest paid workers says an opportunity to work, and small business has time everything about him. He does not understand what it is available to give them, yet those opposite do not want like to work for a minimum wage. The Baillieu them to have that opportunity to learn a work ethic, to government’s decision shows that the Premier does not earn some money and to spend the very small amount understand what Victorian families really need.

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 959 of time they have after school to contribute to Those who go into small business are constantly living employment and to the country. on the edge. Often they live on loans, they go without and they care about their staff. Why do we care about Those opposite may not know, but people in small staff? It is because we know that without staff we have business are the second-largest employers in the nothing. Staff and small business owners are as country, next to government. That is absolutely huge. important as each other. I am sorry to disappoint those Without small business there would be no work for opposite, but this argument is not just about one side; it anybody. Do those opposite want to put more pressure is a two-sided argument, and it is important that those on those young people who want an opportunity and opposite understand how important it is. more pressure on people in small business who would like to give them that opportunity? Are those opposite My thoughts are that this situation has arisen because of saying, ‘No, you have got to cough up 3 hours?’. Sorry, a bungled federal Labor initiative to deprive countless but people in small business do not have enough fat in numbers of young people of the opportunity to work for their budgets or enough money from what they make to periods of time less than 3 hours. Those of us on this be able to do that. It is ludicrous that those opposite side of the house want to give young people the would deny two people the opportunity to work out a opportunity to work, including to perform casual retail solution so that a young person can work in retail, or work. This issue does not need a one-size-fits-all wherever the workplace may be, for a couple of hours approach, and it is about time that those opposite in the afternoon, when they want to work. understood that. People on one side of the equation are not more important than those on the other. The Often these jobs provide young people with their first argument is about how to work together to get the best taste of work and their first taste of real money. It is outcome for everybody and the best outcome for the their also their first opportunity to build their reputation country so that we can all benefit. It is absurd to suggest and their work ethic. My daughter works part time and that all small business owners can afford to employ goes to school. She has the opportunity to work part young kids for 3 hours. time, and she loves it. Why should she sacrifice that opportunity with a small business? What does it matter This idea that suddenly young kids have 3 hours to if those kids work for only an hour and a half? What is work in the afternoon is just ludicrous. They have the problem with that? If they want to work for an hour study, friends and family. If we are talking about and a half, why is that an issue? Who says those work-life balance, then let us be serious. The opposite know what is best? Who says members of the government is about improving the working former nanny government know what is best? opportunities for ordinary working people and young kids who want to get a foothold in the workforce and Mr Newton-Brown — School, homework and a increase their employment opportunities. We are about minimum of 3 hours work. giving small business the ability and openness to provide that opportunity. Ms RYALL — That is it. People in small business live on loans. I went six months without pay. Would an I have been a worker and a business owner. I have been employed worker go for six months without pay? I do on both sides of the fence. not think so. It is about time those opposite looked at small business owners as people as well as workers. All Honourable members interjecting. people should have an opportunity to earn a dollar. The view that someone who owns a business is flush with Ms RYALL — That is right. This is coming from money is a disgrace; it has never been the case. someone who actually has an understanding of both sides, as opposed to most of those opposite. We believe Honourable members interjecting. in lower minimum casual shifts for young people entering the workforce, smoothing their transition into Ms RYALL — That is right. We cannot afford to full-time employment. This will make it easier for have small businesses close if they are the employers to get staff for shorter periods when they second-largest employers in this country, next to need to. government. They need to do what is in their own interests and what is in the interests of young people. Ms KNIGHT (Ballarat West) — I am very pleased Employers and workers need to be able to work to rise to support the motion of the member for Tarneit together and not have some group of people dictate to ‘That this house condemns Premier Baillieu for his them what is right. We do not want the dictators on the sustained attack on Victorian workers’. An attack on other side of the house, thank you very much.

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960 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 workers is an attack on families, and that is what I fear But we should not be surprised that the government is happening with this new government. does not want to play fair. There is a list of legislation enacted by Labor and opposed by the Baillieu The Premier is very good at making grand family government when in opposition. In opposition the statements, but I do not believe there are actions to Baillieu government opposed providing an award follow through on those statements. To stand and make safety net for schedule 1A workers through the Federal statements suggesting that the wellbeing of families is a Awards (Uniform System) Act 2003. It opposed priority, that the government considers families in the allowing vulnerable outworkers access to award course of its decision making and that in fact the issues entitlements through the Outworkers (Improved of families are critical to the government’s decision Protection) Amendment Act 2005. It opposed requiring making would be funny if it were not so insulting. How owner-drivers with information to assist informed can the government have the audacity to make these decision making through the Owner Drivers and claims and statements and then cut at the foundations Forestry Contractors Act 2005. It opposed keeping and at the very heart of families? We just need to look workers safe through the Occupational Health and at the government’s record so far to see what is Safety Act 2004. It opposed protecting children under happening. 15 years of age so they can benefit from work experience without jeopardising their health, education Firstly, I will look at the Shop Trading Reform or social wellbeing through the Child Employment Act Amendment (Easter Sunday) Bill 2011. Labor opposed 2003. that bill because it does not believe that families have been put at the centre of that bill. We would do that. When in opposition the Baillieu government opposed Easter is a very important time of religious significance, improving long service leave access through the Long but it is also an important opportunity for families to Service Leave (Amendment) Act 2003, the Long spend some time together. Easter Sunday was one of Service Leave (Preservation of Entitlements) Act 2006 the few days of the year when larger retailers closed and the Construction Industry Long Service Leave their doors, thereby allowing smaller businesses to also (Amendment) Act 2004. It opposed establishing a keep their doors closed. This may not be an option now. workplace rights advocate through the Workplace Retail workers will be expected to work without even Rights Advocate Act 2005. It opposed protecting the receiving any penalty rates to compensate them. There award wages and conditions of more than are no safeguards for Victorian workers who could be 254 000 public servants through the Public Sector pressured, harassed or coerced into working on Easter Employment (Award Entitlements) Act 2006. Sunday. I cannot see families as central to that decision at all — certainly not the families of retail workers. When in opposition the Baillieu government opposed There are precious few opportunities during the year for assisting in protecting children by ensuring that people families to get together. Now we have one less. who work with or care for children are checked by a government body through the Working with Children I condemn this attack on fairness for working Act 2005. It opposed protecting vulnerable workers Victorians, who should be appropriately and fairly paid through the Victorian Workers’ Wages Protection Act for work done on Easter Sunday. I condemn this attack 2007, and it opposed expanding the range of what on fairness for the people of Ballarat West who will be constitutes discrimination through the Equal forced to work on Easter Sunday. I also condemn this Opportunity Amendment (Family Responsibilities) Act attack on their families. 2008.

I turn now to the issue of constraining wage increases The member for Prahran states that the minimum wage for Victoria’s lowest paid workers. I fail to see how is a petty issue. I would absolutely disagree. Certainly putting in a submission to Fair Work Australia calling on this side of the house we do not see it as petty at all. for restraint in minimum wage increases for Victoria’s We see it as being really important and crucial to lowest paid workers is conducive to supporting people’s wellbeing and quality of life. I condemn this families. It is also beyond me how a government that attack on fairness for working Victorians who rely on claims to have a focus on reducing the cost of living minimum wage increases to make ends meet. I can in the same breath constrain wage increases for condemn this attack on the working people of Ballarat Victoria’s lowest paid workers — workers like my West and their families. partner, a storeman in the retail area, who works for about $15 an hour. I turn now to the issue of wage increases below inflation for Victorian public sector workers. This government has betrayed the trust of Victoria’s public

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 961 sector workers. It went to the election with a promise to for young people to have part-time work, so those make teachers the highest paid in Australia. It went to people continue to do that. It is a very good experience the election on a law and order platform and quite for young people. From my perspective it was a rightly praised our police force for reducing crime, necessity, because we simply did not have enough having a real impact on the road toll and doing a money to provide some of those extras like concert difficult job under often difficult circumstances. It was tickets that my children wanted. absolutely right to do so. This government is now treating the police and their families with contempt by Young people deserve a fair go in the workplace, and responding to a pay claim with only a 2.5 per cent they deserve to know that when they go to work they increase — and that increase is contingent upon will get a substantial amount of time in their shift, trade-offs of conditions. I do not know how this is particularly if it has taken a substantial amount of time going to affect the goal of recruiting 1700 more police to get there. I condemn this attack on the rights of for this state, but I believe that target has just become young working Victorians, who deserve a fair go, and I much more difficult to reach. condemn this attack on their families. In conclusion, I absolutely support the motion the member for Tarneit What of those front-line community sector workers — has put to this house. those who care for the most vulnerable in our community? What happened to the promise that they Mr SOUTHWICK (Caulfield) — I rise to speak on would receive significant wage increases? Six months the matter of public importance raised by the member ago I was one of those workers, working in Lifeline and for Tarneit. When I first saw this matter I could not UnitingCare’s family counselling services alongside believe my eyes. Firstly, I take note that the member for drug and alcohol workers, those who work with the Tarneit is not even here to support his matter. That homeless, those who provide hot meals every single shows how important he feels this matter is. Secondly, day to people who would not otherwise have an if you look at the wording, you see that the second item opportunity to eat, those who work with families who is factually incorrect. In the haste of putting the matter face complex struggles and challenges in their lives of public importance together the opposition failed to every single day and people with mental health issues realise that the Shop Trading Reform Amendment who must face those challenges every single day. Each (Easter Sunday) Bill 2011 was not the first bill passed day those people go to work to help those whom by this Parliament. It has been a sloppy attempt by the society tends to forget or ignore or does not know what member to put this matter together. to do with, and they get paid a pittance to do it. It is quite ironic, because we have all been waiting for Those people, my ex-colleagues, deserve to get paid this big matter of public importance that was going to properly, for their sake, the sake of their families and bring down the government. This was a matter that was the sake of the families they support every single day. I going to make us return to the opposition benches. We condemn this attack on fairness for Victorian public can see that there is hardly a member of the opposition sector workers, whose trust was betrayed and who were in the house. Every single speech by opposition promised the world but are now being offered a slide in members that we have heard thus far has been delivered pay and conditions. I condemn this attack on their in a very half-hearted manner, and they certainly do not families and the families they support. speak with any conviction about what they believe. One must question if they believe in anything they have I do not even know where to begin with the reduction said. of the minimum hours of working for young people. Despite having two children of my own who were I am pleased that the member for Tarneit has finally working part time from the age of 15, this reduction is chosen to join us again. I welcome him back. something I cannot even fathom. I know a little bit about this, because I spent years ferrying them to and What we have heard here today is very interesting. We from their part-time jobs and our home. Luckily I did have heard a whole host of things from the opposition not have very far to take them, but there are people in about supporting workers. If we are being clear, this is my electorate and in the region who have to travel half not about supporting workers at all; it is about an hour or longer just to get their child to their part-time supporting the unions and union mates. Every single job. To get them there for just half an hour or an hour element of it is about that. The opposition members are and a half makes it a lot more difficult. However, they not fair dinkum. They are not here to support workers, all do it because they know it is very good for their kids and if they were, they would have done a lot more in to have part-time work. I do not think anybody on the 11 years that they were in government. They had either side of the house would argue that it is not great 11 long years to do something about this, but

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962 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 unfortunately in those 11 years — long, dark years — We have to look at protecting families. We have to stop they did absolutely nothing. this cloak and dagger approach that has been continually adopted by the Labor Party. It used a whole This matter was raised this week, the same week that lot of approaches during the Easter trading debate. We the member for Tarneit and his opposition colleagues heard from the opposition about religious freedoms. We put the needs of their Labor mates in Canberra ahead of looked at the union fix. We looked at a whole lot of Victorian families by not allowing the Treasurer to different things. What we did not look at was what the attend an important GST summit. What hypocrisy! You effect would be on many of the workers who are now did not support him. You could have paired him off, but able to work. The member for Tarneit has Cosco and you did not do it and you do not care. Instead all you Mitre 10 in his electorate. Those retailers were open continue to do is attack Victorian workers. That is what over Easter for many years while he was in you do, and your federal colleagues ripped the guts out government. Certainly none of those workers were ever of us — $2.5 billion just ripped out. If you were fair given overtime or double time during Easter, and the dinkum, you would have taken that $2.5 billion and member for Tarneit was never in this house standing up stood up for Victorian families — — for them then. Very conveniently he has forgotten that and has now tried to stand up for them while in Ms Pike — On a point of order, Acting Speaker, I opposition. Labor had 11 long years to do something, draw your attention to the fact that the member is not but for those 11 long years the former Labor referring to those opposite using the correct government did absolutely nothing. parliamentary terminology. He should understand that when he uses the word ‘you’ those comments are in Let us turn to the part of the MPI that looks at wage fact directed to the Chair, and it is unparliamentary to increases for Victorian public sector workers. The refer to the Acting Speaker in those terms. The member coalition government’s wages policy is well known. needs to refer all his comments through the Chair, and Increases above the guideline of 2.5 per cent are therefore the use of the word ‘you’ is unparliamentary available to be negotiated where parties can achieve a and inappropriate when referring to opposition genuine productivity offset. I am very disappointed that members of Parliament. I ask you to bring the member the opposition is unaware of exactly what productivity back to using correct parliamentary terminology. means. We have seen plenty of examples of this. Unfortunately every single project the former The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Tilley) — Order! I government did was done with budget blow-outs and ask the member for Caulfield to be mindful of those was never delivered on time. Never once was a project points and to address the house through the Chair. delivered on budget — not once on budget. So in the Mr SOUTHWICK — Let me continue. The fact of language of the opposition, productivity is the matter is that we have seen that Victorians will have unfortunately unheard of — — a great result under this current government, a result Ms Green — On a point of order, Acting Speaker, I that we would never have seen under the former am afraid that I will have to ask the member for government. Caulfield to withdraw that comment. He is misleading Let us look at this matter of public importance (MPI) the house. I could go through a list of projects, that has been put forward, this very weak matter of including the bridge on the Greensborough Highway public importance. Let us start with point 2, relating to over the Plenty Gorge, that were actually delivered the Easter Sunday trading bill, which was supposedly ahead of time and under budget. The things that are said the first bill that we passed but in fact was not. The MPI in this house need to be factual, and I ask the member is a bit unclear there, but that is okay. Let us proceed for Caulfield not to mislead the house with blanket with what this means. There is nothing clearer than the comments. fact that this is an attack on small business. This is, The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Tilley) — Order! I again, Labor Party payback to their union movement have been listening intently, and I do not uphold the mates. We recall a $240 000 promise that was made to point of order. Labor’s union mates to try to stop Easter Sunday trading. Unfortunately for the unions that did not Mr SOUTHWICK — Let me continue about the succeed. The $240 000 gift from the union movement budget blow-outs under the former government. There to the Labor Party was a very poor decision, a very was a huge number of budget blow-outs. We can talk unwise choice, by them. That sweetheart deal did not about the desalination plant, the cost of which members work out so well for Labor’s mates in the union of the public — the Victorian taxpayers — will have to movement. live with for 30 years because they have been signed up

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 963 to a deal about which they unfortunately made no of its ambitions: its desire to reduce the working decision. Unfortunately they have been signed up conditions of the most important and vulnerable for — we have been signed up for — a blow-out of workers in this state. Members of the conservative $2.6 billion. The EastLink freeway project blew out by coalition conduct themselves in a manner they consider $2.5 billion — and the list goes on. to be paternal — that is, they say they are doing the right thing — but in the end their manner is patronising If you want to look at what Victorian workers deserve, and they display that in all the actions they take. they deserve a government that cares about them. They deserve a government that will seek to look after them. What we are seeing on a number of fronts is the impact They need a government that is there for them. That is this government has had on key workers, whether they what we are here for. This government cares about be police officers; teachers, who have received broken Victorian workers, not about unions and not about promises about wage increases; or nurses, who care for union mates. We will be here standing up for families. the most vulnerable. All of these workers had We will be here standing up for Victorians. We will be expectations of this government. Prior to the election here standing up every single day for Victorian the coalition indicated that it would deliver for them, workers. but we know the government is backtracking on what it promised to deliver with the enterprise bargaining Mr MADDEN (Essendon) — I rise today to agreement (EBA) process. condemn the Premier on an issue that is certainly critical to this debate. I think the best way to describe We already know about Easter Sunday trading; I will this government and to describe this Premier is the way not go into that in great detail. What I want to do is give former leaders of the federal Liberal Party have been a few examples of what happens to real people, described over time — that is, as ‘mean and tricky’. something I suspect that members of the conservative They are words that came from within the Liberal coalition fail to see in their day-to-day lives. I will give Party. I say ‘mean and tricky’ because what the an example that relates to Easter Sunday trading. There electorate thought it was getting when it elected this is a small trader who operates not far from where I live. Premier was a sensitive new-age Premier — the She is a retailer and an elderly lady. She likes to spend Renaissance man, the swimmer, the architect, the Easter with her family. She does not have to open her aesthete, the athlete — but unfortunately the only business on Easter Sunday, as she sells young Renaissance characteristic that is displayed by this children’s and baby’s clothing. However, her business Premier — — is not far away from one of the major retailers. What will happen on Easter Sunday is that the major retailers Mr Burgess — On a point of order, Acting Speaker, will open their doors and so will the indoor shopping the member is clearly reading, and I ask you to stop complex around the corner. him from doing so. This elderly lady will have to spend the entire day in The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Tilley) — Order! Is her shop because of the likes of Woolworths and Coles, the member for Essendon referring to notes or reading a which sell the same sorts of clothing she does, being speech? open. If she does not open on Easter Sunday, she will potentially lose that sort of trade. It is highly likely that Mr MADDEN — I am just referring to copious she will sell very little clothing on that day on which notes, Acting Speaker. she will spend a lot of time away from her family. She The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Tilley) — Order! I tells me that Easter Sunday is one of the few days of the do not uphold the point of order. year on which she has the opportunity to spend time with her family. Mr MADDEN — The only Renaissance characteristic displayed by this Premier is the way he In relation to minimum hours of work, I want to talk strolls around like a latter-day Medici; he is distant, about the example of a family I know very well. We remote, removed and aloof, and he has little have heard from the government — the conservative understanding of what real families do, how they members opposite — that we are doing young people a conduct their business and how they go about life. favour by employing them for only 1½ hours at a time. We hear that patronising tone again. There is no doubt The conservative Liberal-Nationals coalition has tried employment is going to help young people. to do many things in its first 100 days, or so it says, but they have had very little impact or effect. The most Ms Ryall — You have no idea! important thing it has done is signal what sits at the core

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964 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011

Mr MADDEN — I will take up that comment. I do There is another thing that members opposite have have an idea. I have worked with young people in forgotten in relation to these matters. They say good vulnerable situations, and I will give you some parents have to drive back and forth. We have all done examples: I was self-employed for many years in a that and we are expected to do that for our children, but small business as an architect, I taught younger people the thing they have not taken into account is what is for many years, and I was the president of the AFL known as the vampire index. This index is used in Players Association at a significant time of change for urban planning. It relates to the amount of petrol you the AFL. At that time there were highly motivated have to use to travel long distances and the effect that young people desperately wanting to do the work, but has on your family budget. What this government they were not respected by their employers, who took a wants to do is reduce the income of key workers — patronising tone towards them. nurses, police, teachers, health workers and the like — — I return to the example of the family I know very well, which needs the money that the children bring in to Mr Weller — Reduce? You want to reduce income? make ends meet. I take up the point we heard from members on this side in relation to that. Government Mr MADDEN — I will take up that interjection. members are saying that this kind of money is a sort of Workers’ incomes will be reduced, because inflation is add-on, but for many families the money that their rising at a faster rate than that of the minimum wage the adolescent children can bring through the door helps government is offering through the EBA process. What make ends meet. This family I know has five children. you will see is real income reduced and a greater The daughter works at an ice-cream parlour in a main reduction in income because of that vampire index, street shopping centre. She will take the shortest shift particularly with rising petrol prices. The government is she can get because of what happens on a hot day. You encouraging the notion of parents driving across town might have a situation where the weather changes or to shopping centres and the like more often, getting different things happen, and that has an impact on the them to spend their hard-earnt money on the petrol it amount of ice-cream you can sell on a hot day. takes to drop off and collect their children when they are doing 1½ hours of work. After school this mother takes her adolescent child to the main street shopping centre to work on a hot day, or As well as that, what the government is intending to do any day really, to sell ice-cream. If it is not a hot day, is to push more people into the outer suburbs. We know her daughter will have a 1½-hour shift, with the that the demand for housing in inner suburbs by the key possibility of increasing the shift to 3 hours if the owner workers I have just mentioned will not be met, because chooses to do so at the time. However, what this means they will not be able to purchase those houses and is that this lady has to pack her four other children into cover the mortgage payments. What the government is the car, take her adolescent daughter down to the saying is, ‘We’ll put as many people in the outer ice-cream shop for her daughter’s 1½-hour shift, and suburbs as we possibly can, and we won’t let anybody then drive her home afterwards. That is called good else in those expensive suburbs’. What we are going to parenting, and these people are great parents. With the see is more vulnerable people out on the fringes with change to working conditions this girl would have had their salaries reduced. They will include key workers to work 3 hours. Currently if the shop is not selling who have to drive miles to take their kids to their places ice-cream, she is allowed to go home before the 3 hours of employment for small periods of time, and the is up because there is no point keeping her there, but government says this is a great thing. The government what will happen in the future is that she will only be does not understand; the Premier does not understand paid for 1½ hours regardless of the situation, but then because the Premier has never had to lead a real life in she may be asked to stay on for a bit longer. his world. He has never had to rely on those services, and he has never had to rely on a real income. Members opposite will say that it will be the end of civilisation if you change the minimum hours to Dr SYKES (Benalla) — Now we have seen 1½ from 3 hours. What the proposed new minimum it grovelling in the gutter — 6 foot, 7 inches grovelling hours will do is make a very real difference to this in the gutter! family, because this family’s child will now get paid for 1½ hours work rather than 3 hours work. That will Mr Madden — On a point of order, Speaker, the make a significant difference to the family budget at the member is misleading the house again, because I am end of the week. 6 foot, 10 inches!

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Dr SYKES — Still, he did not disagree with the Do members know what business that was? It was the second part about how low those people on that side IGA supermarket, the source of food. We had people can stoop to try to drive a wedge between us on this coming up to Bright to relax and have a hassle-free few side and the people who elected us to represent them. days — ordinary working people bring their caravans to We were elected by the people of Victoria to represent Bright and camp in the camping grounds and want to them because they know we are the people who stand enjoy the simple pleasures of the magnificent autumn up for a fair go — a fair day’s wage for a fair day’s tones of Bright — and Labor was saying to them that work. they could not get food from the IGA supermarket. This legislation brings in common sense and enables This matter of public importance is about containing working people to have an enjoyable family holiday wage increases and common sense in working hours. I and a low-cost meal without having to worry about a lot will put it in context. It is about managing a budget. of storage and refrigeration, because they can get fresh The first principle of managing a budget is to live food from the local supermarket. That is common sense within your means: to not spend more than you earn in legislation. It is about looking after working people. and to generate a budget surplus. Secondly, basic budgetary management dictates that you spend wisely Let us look at the issue of containing wages, which has and that you get value for money and spend it equitably been raised by those in opposition. Let us put this issue so that everyone benefits from the wealth and in context by looking at what has happened on the West prosperity of this state, not just a few, whom I will talk Gate Bridge. I have a niece whose partner worked on about in a moment. That is not how Labor operated in the West Gate Bridge. He told me he was on $100 000 its 11 years. We have had unbelievable financial a year as a labourer but that the work ethic was mismanagement because Labor cannot manage money. mind-blowing. That is only one issue. It has never been able to manage money, and it never will. Do members know why? It does not care, because I am pleased that the member for Lyndhurst, the former it is not its money, Ralph! It is taxpayers money, and it Minister for Water, is here in the chamber. I refer to the just blows it. north–south pipeline, which we plugged. One of the locals got invited to work on that job. He put in a quote The Baillieu-Ryan government has been elected by the for windscreen repairs at $60 an hour. The organisation majority of Victorians to bring in responsible financial came back to him and said, ‘You’re going to have to management to fix Labor’s mess, and what a mess it is. work those figures; it’s just not on’. He said that that Let us look at the specifics of the matter of public figure was as low as he could go. The organisation said, importance. Easter trading is extremely important to the ‘No, we don’t want you to take the figure lower; $60 an electorates of Benalla and Benambra. We rely on hour is far too low — we want you to go to $300 an tourists coming to north-eastern Victoria, which is a hour’. Why? Because it is just taxpayers money. fabulous part of Victoria, as is Echuca, the member for Rodney’s location. We have key towns in our electorate Then we have the daddy of them all: the desalination that rely heavily on the tourist dollar, including plant, where there are outrageous arrangements. Tradies Nagambie, Eildon, Mansfield, Bright, Myrtleford, there are getting $150 000 or $200 000 a year, and their Mount Beauty, Benalla and Euroa, and until — — work culture, as reported in today’s Age, is absolutely appalling. Let us get it right. If we are going to have a Mr McCurdy interjected. fair day’s work for a fair day’s pay, we cannot have the system put in place by the previous government, where Dr SYKES — With the help of the member for there was outrageous ripping off at the top. Then the Murray Valley — and Wangaratta! Until we introduced money will be available to make sure that the people the Easter trading arrangements we had the absolutely we care about are looked after properly. ludicrous situation where businesses with less than 20 employees could open but businesses with more Let us move on to the issue of minimum hours, which than 20 employees could not open unless it was a is particularly affecting newsagents. We have the hardware business or a nursery or unless there was an situation in Benalla where the minimum hours have exemption for the whole community, such as the one been pushed out to 3 hours. That has had an impact on for Bendigo, which is represented by a Labor MP. We business flexibility. It has made businesses less cost had the situation in Bright where there was only one effective, as it is costing more money to deliver the business in all of Bright — a community of a couple of same services. People have had their rosters changed; thousand people catering for up to 10 000 visitors — they are working fewer days and longer hours, and jobs that could not open on Easter Sunday. have been sacrificed. The problem is that the situation is making it harder for our young people. A couple of

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966 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 our young ones who work at the Benalla newsagent trading on Easter Sunday. This legislation clearly want to move to Melbourne so they can find work that represents an attack on workers and workers’ families fits in with their tertiary education. These country kids during a time of year that should be one of celebration have missed out on the opportunity to qualify for the and relaxation. Instead this government — in what youth allowance, and the opposition has failed to stand represents an ironic twist, given the Premier’s first up for country Victorians and ensure that they get a fair statement on the importance of families in Victoria — opportunity for education. The opportunities for has slapped Victorian working families in the face by country kids to work in Melbourne are being restricted removing the protection from being forced to work on because of the minimum number of hours. Easter Sunday. In that statement the Premier claimed that under his government families would be ‘at the It is interesting to hear the member for Essendon talk centre of our decision making’. He also claimed that about how it works the other way. He said that ‘All decisions of cabinet now consider in advance the increasing the minimum number of hours works against benefits for families’. I ask Baillieu and Co.: how does the worker. I am giving an example where increasing trading on Easter Sunday pass this test? How can this the minimum number of hours is working against our Liberal-Nationals government look the Victorian young people, who are currently severely people in the eye and say it legitimately cares and puts disadvantaged and need to work to pursue their the interests of Victorian workers first when it has taken educational opportunities. away the protection of workers from working on Easter Sunday? Ms Graley — But you don’t want them to be paid for working on a public holiday. Premier Baillieu has provided no proposals to protect workers from being compelled to work on Easter Dr SYKES — I thank the member for Narre Warren Sunday, and nor has he allowed for the provision of South. They will get paid for working on Easter compensation through public holiday penalty loadings Sunday, and they will continue to get paid a fair day’s for this day beyond the normal Sunday rate. Easter pay for a fair day’s work. Sunday is not a public holiday, and the government has I conclude by referring to the start of this debate, in not legislated protections for workers in Victoria in which the member for Tarneit made comments relation to Easter Sunday under the general retail accusing the coalition of misleading Victorians in a industry award. This highlights the hypocrisy of the contrived fashion. Is that not the pot calling the kettle Baillieu government: on one hand crowing about the black? From his copious notes the member came up importance of families and cutting the cost of living for with those little gems. On top of that, when the member Victorian households but on the other hand ripping out for Box Hill replied he immediately exposed the factual the heart of Victorian workers. incorrectness of the statements by the member for Ted Baillieu’s choice to make the Shop Trading Tarneit. Reform Amendment (Easter Sunday) Bill 2011 the first Let us examine where we fit into this. On this side we bill to be passed by this government says everything represent all Victorians, including the workers. We are about him and his priorities. Ted Baillieu has no sick and tired of the opposition attempting to create a understanding about what it is like to work, let alone to class divide, and I advise the opposition that many work on Easter Sunday. He has no understanding about people who used to vote Labor now vote what it is like for a retail worker at Coles to earn $18.40 Liberal-Nationals because we stand up for all per hour, and he has no understanding of what it is like Victorians. to pay rent or a mortgage, maintain a car, pay the bills and put food on the table on a weekly minimum wage. Ms KAIROUZ (Kororoit) — The Premier, Ted Baillieu and Co. were elected on a platform to fix the Baillieu, has been caught out. Baillieu and Co. has been problems. Of all the things they said they would be caught out. A leopard never changes its spots. It has dealing with, such as transport, health care and flood taken less than five months for Mr Baillieu’s true relief, they have chosen instead to target Victorian colours to come out and show his disregard for workers through passing the Easter Sunday trading bill Victorian workers and Victorian families. It took less as the first act in the 57th Parliament. than three months in office before Baillieu and Co. launched a two-pronged attack on the wages and Premier Baillieu’s announcement of the government’s conditions of workers in the retail industry. intention to seek a reduction in the minimum hours of work for young people is another attack on Victorian First, the Liberal government moved swiftly to workers. This is despite four failed attempts in the last introduce legislation that would allow open-slather three years by the Australian Retailers Association to

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 967 get Fair Work Australia to accept changes to minimum He does not understand the relative living standards and casual hours. Again, of all the things the government needs of the low paid, and he does not understand what said it would be doing, it has chosen to attack the most it is like to live on wages below the minimum wage or vulnerable workers — schoolchildren — and their to earn the current minimum wage of $15 per hour or wages and conditions. The 3-hour minimum casual $569.90 a week. He does not understand any of this model is just and fair, but the 1½-hour minimum is not. because he has never had to, and now he simply does In fact the Australian Retailers Association withdrew its not want to. submission when given a deadline by Fair Work Australia to provide evidence that workers would be Let us turn to Victorian public sector workers — better off working a minimum of 1½ hours. Yet Ted workers that this state cannot function without, such as Baillieu is pushing ahead, and he made a special police officers, teachers and nurses. The Premier request to Fair Work Australia — — promised the world to these workers before the election, and after the election he reneged. Premier The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! Baillieu’s decision to propose wage increases below I draw the attention of the member for Kororoit to inflation for the Victorian public sector workers is a standing order 108, which states: further alarming sign of the importance he places on the fiscal over the fair. In fact Baillieu and Co. have A member must refer to other members by their title of office decided to move the enterprise bargaining unit from or by the name of their electorate. Workforce Victoria to the Department of Treasury and Ms KAIROUZ — Premier Baillieu is pushing Finance, which basically means that public sector ahead, and he has decided that he will put in a negotiations will now be controlled in every part by the submission to Fair Work Australia to lop the minimum government, which wants to keep wage increases casual hours from the current 3 hours to 1½ hours. That below inflation. is despite Fair Work Australia delivering condemnation of the Australian Retailers Association case on a Sadly we have a Premier without any credibility. We reduction of hours last year. In its decision the ARA have a Premier who is very good at providing said: commentary but is not good at delivering on his promises. We have a Premier who does not understand It is hard to imagine a weaker evidentiary case for a general what it is like to work and does not understand what it reduction in the minimum period of casual engagement. is like to make ends meet from pay to pay. This attack on school student workers and their families represents the government’s malicious agenda and sole BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE function of representing employers and big business. The cruel decision by Premier Baillieu will have a Orders of the day detrimental effect on the vulnerable and poor within our society, but what would he know? He has never had to Mr McINTOSH (Minister for Corrections) — I work for a living. He has never had to save every cent move: to treat himself to go to the cinema or work to catch public transport or buy a treat from the school canteen, That the order of the house making the resumption of debate on the second reading of the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011 so the choice to reduce the minimum hours of work for an order of the day for Thursday, 7 April 2011 be read and schoolchildren from 3 hours to 1½ hours is not rescinded and that the bill be made an order of the day for surprising at all. Every Victorian deserves to know that Wednesday, 6 April 2011. their government will not abandon them to face the challenges alone, particularly the lowest paid workers. Two weeks ago a decision was made to place the Instead we have a Liberal-Nationals government that Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011 on the notice paper for attacks some of Victoria’s lowest paid and most Thursday, which constituted a two-week adjournment vulnerable workers. from the Thursday of the last sitting week. It is felt that, given the circumstances of this week, ample time will Once again we find Premier Baillieu launching an be provided tomorrow to give an opportunity to a attack on Victorian workers by recommending number of members to make their contributions to the constraining wage increases for Victoria’s lowest paid address-in-reply debate. I am sure there are also a workers. Premier Baillieu’s choice to restrain wage number of members on both sides of the house who increases for Victoria’s lowest paid workers says wish to speak on the Japanese earthquake and tsunami everything about him. He obviously does not motion. That could be accomplished by 4.00 p.m. understand what it is like to work for a minimum wage. tomorrow. Most importantly an opportunity to speak on

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968 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 both the address-in-reply motion and the Japanese The government’s view is therefore that, given earthquake motion will be afforded to all members tomorrow’s circumstances, which have been created by tomorrow. the opposition not providing a pair for the Treasurer, and given that the government is putting four bills on When the government business program was being the government business program with a guillotine at contemplated we kept the number of bills to be debated 10.00 p.m. tonight, we will be accommodating as many in the house to a maximum of four rather than allowing members as possible making their contributions on the usual six, seven or eight, which we have seen in those important bills, including the Multicultural normal business weeks of both this Parliament and Victoria Bill 2011. We think this will enable us, as I previous parliaments. We feel that four bills is a more said, to move on tomorrow to the less controversial than adequate number for completion in two days. matters I have already mentioned. Accordingly I am Accordingly we have decided to bring on the happy to commend this important motion to the house. government business program guillotine tonight. Ms BEATTIE (Yuroke) — The opposition will be The Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011 is obviously an opposing this motion. important bill, and many members will be given the opportunity to speak on it later today. As an important An honourable member interjected. bill it warrants as many members as possible making a contribution to the debate on it. Accordingly this Ms BEATTIE — If the member will listen, he will motion rescinds the motion agreed to by the house two give me an opportunity to speak. The opposition has weeks ago, which put the Multicultural Victoria Bill always supported multicultural affairs in a bipartisan 2011 on the notice paper for tomorrow, and instead way, and we hope to continue that bipartisan support. brings it on today. It is only one day earlier than was However, we do not support being gagged in a debate. originally agreed to when the debate was adjourned for In this great state the grandson of a Lebanese migrant two weeks. That will enable that bill to be debated can become Premier and the child of Sri Lankan today and put to the vote as part of the guillotine at parents can rise to become Governor. We have always 10.00 p.m. tonight, along with the other three bills. supported the multicultural nature of our state, and we want the opportunity to have a fair debate on this It is the government’s view that this will mean as many matter. We need more time on this matter, which is members as possible will be able to make a contribution really important for this state. to the debate on this very important bill and will give the house the opportunity to make significant inroads in Members will know that just recently there was a getting through the contributions of members who want cricket match in India. Many of my Indian constituents to speak on the address-in-reply and Japanese went to India to watch that match, and they are coming earthquake and tsunami motions. The timing of those back to Australia now. I have not had the opportunity to matters will obviously be dependent on discussions consult with my constituents on this very important bill. between the various parties. However, we can start with This bill will take multicultural affairs forward in this the address-in-reply debate, and the Japanese natural state, but it is a great change from what has been the disasters motion can be debated at some later stage. As case in the past. We have had multicultural I said, that will be the subject of discussion between commissioners; now we are moving to regional parties in the house. councils. We want an opportunity to go back to our communities, no matter where they are and no matter Given the unusual situation of the Treasurer being which country they are from or which religion they required in Canberra, on Thursday we would like the practise, to consult with them about the bill. house to deal with non-controversial matters, including the address-in-reply and the Japanese earthquake We thought we would have this extra time to consult, motions. Both of those matters are non-controversial in but now we do not because the Treasurer wants to go to the sense that they do not necessarily carry specific Canberra. That is his right, and we want him to go. We outcomes even though all members have the support him going to Canberra. I will even lend him a opportunity to make a contribution. The Melway to show him where the airport is — although address-in-reply debate can of course be partisan in Liberal members always know where the airport is, content, but the nature of the beast is that there is no because they cannot wait for July to have the long opposition to the motion itself, and I am sure there will winter break to go overseas. I am willing to take time be no opposition to the tsunami motion. out to give the Treasurer a copy of Melway so he can find his way to the airport, because I want him to go to Canberra and I want him to argue Victoria’s case. But

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 969 there seems to be some reluctance on his part, maybe Mr HODGETT — We look forward to the member because he has to pay for extra baggage to get his for Lara also making a contribution and perhaps saying abacus onto the little plane that goes to Canberra. He something sensible in the house for a change. cannot fit it in. As the Leader of the House has outlined, this will allow We want to consult with our communities on the all of Thursday to be used to debate the motion to adopt Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. In my community, in the address-in-reply to the Governor’s speech and the the municipality of Hume, there are people from some motion on the Japanese earthquake and tsunami. As I 120 nations. It is impossible to get around and consult outlined yesterday, we have a number of speakers who every community in Hume to get their input in two are directly or indirectly affected by those disasters, and weeks. Indeed I have some people coming in today so a few of them are keen to make a contribution on that that I can get their input on the bill. I want to have a motion. As has been outlined, this will allow the fulsome debate. I want to continue the great tradition of Treasurer to go to Canberra tomorrow to argue bipartisanship on multicultural affairs in this state, but Victoria’s case for a fair share of funding and to stand how can we make our multicultural communities feel up for Victoria. Of course, it will be without the support included in the debate when the guillotine is going to be of opposition members, who have failed to give him a applied? pair to facilitate his going to Canberra to argue our case for a fair share of funding. In the interests of time, I say The guillotine is one of the great traditions of the that I support the motion, and I urge opposition Liberal Party, and it never ceases to use it. We are four members to do the same. months into this government’s term, and we see it being used all the time because the government does not want Mr EREN (Lara) — At the outset I want to record to consult. It made decisions about the Multicultural that the opposition does not oppose the Multicultural Victoria Act 2004 before it came to government, and it Victoria Bill 2011, but what we are opposing is the does not want us to consult. I know that a former procedural motion before the house. In its first 100 days Minister for Multicultural Affairs has been consulting the government has brought in legislation and tried to widely, as indeed has the member for Dandenong and gag us and guillotine debate. Yet again we are seeing the Leader of the Opposition. We want more four important bills on which it wants to curtail debate. consultation. We do not want the guillotine to be It is trying to compress debate on four important bills, applied. We want the Treasurer to go to Canberra with bills that are important to the constituencies of all of us. his abacus to fight the case. The government wants to come in on Thursday and have a comfortable day, with nothing on the legislative Mr HODGETT (Kilsyth) — I rise in support of the agenda. Once again government members are proving motion moved by the Leader of the House. As has been themselves to be extremely lazy. They have no outlined, the motion seeks to move the order of the day legislative agenda, and they want to guillotine debate for the resumption of debate on the Multicultural on any important legislation before the house. Victoria Bill 2011 from Thursday to today, to allow the bill to be debated today and put to the guillotine tonight. Let me get on to the matter of the Treasurer going to We are seeking to change the process to allow that to Canberra tomorrow. All we have heard from the occur. I am informed by the Opposition Whip that the government is whingeing, carping, moaning and opposition has a number of speakers who wish to make dithering. It is somehow trying to blame the opposition a contribution to the debate on the bill, as do for not letting the Treasurer go. He can go. He should government members, who are also looking forward to not be afraid. I think he is trying to find an excuse not to making a contribution to the debate. As we heard from go; that is what he is doing, because otherwise he will the member for Yuroke, members are keen to make go to Canberra and be exposed for the fool that he is. their contributions, and it will be interesting to see how That is what he is afraid of. He is looking for all the much time opposition members spend debating this excuses under the sun not to go. When you look at the motion and the next. If they are keen to get up and pairs book, which sits just in front of the mace, you see make a contribution to the debate on the Multicultural that the last time there was a pair in this house was Victoria Bill 2011, we are keen to facilitate that and to 2001 — 10 years ago, and that was for a very serious allow them to speak. reason, as we heard yesterday.

Mr Eren interjected. An honourable member interjected.

Mr EREN — Excuse me! It was outlined yesterday that the reason there was a pair in 2001 was that a

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970 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 member’s partner had passed away, and that was the If the opposition wants to get on to the bill, let us get decent thing to do. This is purely about government through this motion and have the actual debate on the procedure. bill. It is absolutely essential that the Treasurer go to the ministerial council meeting tomorrow and defend our As I have indicated, the government should not try to entitlement to the $2.5 billion that the federal compress debate on these four important bills into a government has ripped out of the Victorian economy. matter of hours. We have a lot of things to say; we are very proud of our history in multiculturalism, and Ms Allan — On a point of order, Acting Speaker, government members, knowing we have that proud this matter of public importance is not about the history, are trying to gag us. Through the motion we are Treasurer’s attendance at the ministerial council debating the government wants to change procedures meeting; it is about the restructuring of the government and it says that is so the Treasurer can go to an business program to accommodate debate on the important meeting tomorrow. That is absolute rubbish. Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. Perhaps the member for Rodney could come back to addressing the motion I want to get back to how important multiculturalism is before the house. for my community in particular. We are very proud of the investments the former government made in Honourable members interjecting. multiculturalism. Only recently the new Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship came to Geelong Mr WELLER — What has to be remembered — — to celebrate the Pako Festa with us. The Pako Festa is a huge success as a result of the Labor Party’s policies The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! when it was in government. Over 100 000 people Before the member for Rodney continues it might be attend the annual Pako Festa in Geelong, and when the helpful for me to rule on the point of order. minister came to the festa this year he was amazed at Mr WELLER — If members of the house were how many people were participating in the event. quiet, I could hear the Acting Speaker.

There is Diversitat, a very important organisation in my The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! electorate with which we work closely. I am proud that On that point, as difficult as it might be to believe, I am the former Labor government invested over $1 million having trouble hearing the member for Rodney. I ask in a $3.5 million project to create a community hub that we just lower the temperature in the house a bit. which will provide services for migrant communities in There is no point of order, but I would appreciate the my electorate and North Geelong. It is a fantastic member returning to debate the motion. project, and we are very proud of investing over $1 million in this hub, which is almost complete. What Mr WELLER — What we have to remember is will happen now? After Labor has done all the work, that it has been the practice of this house to have the the new minister will come to Geelong and open the debate on all bills guillotined as part of the government building. That is fine, but what I oppose is the business program. In the last sittings of Parliament, government trying to stifle debate and gag the between 2006 and 2010 — — opposition on this important bill, the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. We will not be gagged. An honourable member — The dark years.

Mr WELLER (Rodney) — It appears that members Mr WELLER — They were very dark years, but of the opposition are suffering from amnesia after their agreements were often made that members would big fall on 27 November last year. Every sitting week speak for a shorter time so that all members could have during the last term of Parliament we had the guillotine their say. Unfortunately in this Parliament members of at 4 o’clock on a Thursday, and in many cases I was the party now in opposition do not want to work denied my full 10 minutes to contribute to debate on the towards all members getting a fair go. They are pulling bills. Back then there was an agreement that members stunts like this where we are wasting 15 to 30 minutes would speak for a shorter time so that everyone could debating a procedural motion rather than getting on contribute. Agreements were worked out. The with debating legislation. government and opposition whips sat down and worked out how everybody could have the opportunity to Honourable members interjecting. contribute. There was none of this rot of opposing Mr WELLER — The member for Lyndhurst things just to waste time such as we are going through interjects and says I am doing the talking. The reason I now. am doing the talking is that members of the opposition

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 971 are opposing this motion. They have chosen to waste The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! half an hour debating this motion when we could be Does the member intend to return to the motion? debating the bill. As we have seen throughout this Parliament so far, they want to play games. They want Ms GRALEY — When the VMC was set up it took to muck around and waste time when we should be nine months. having a proper debate on the bill. Let us get on with it. The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! Ms GRALEY (Narre Warren South) — We are not Does the member intend to return to the motion? We opposing this. There is a good saying that we should do seem to be debating the bill at this stage. twice as much listening as talking. Members opposite should take notice of that, because the fact is we are not Ms GRALEY — I am returning to the motion. I am opposing it. talking about the lack of consultation in relation to this bill. We are very pleased that the Government Whip has told us that the Treasurer is off to Canberra. That is The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! great news. That is terrific, because members on this If that is so, the member should couch her comments in side of the house cannot wait for him to get to those terms. Canberra. We are hoping that Mr Recurrent Capital will Ms GRALEY — I am talking about the lack of get a lesson in economics and accounting in Canberra. consultation of the very concerned people in my We cannot wait for federal Treasurer Wayne Swan to electorate. As I said, people are turning up at my office sit him down and tell him how to add up and how to worried about not only how they will operate but also read the budget papers. We just hope he will understand how they will be able to afford to operate in the future. what is going on in that room tomorrow. We really hope he will do Victoria proud. When the VMC was set up there was nine months of extensive consultation. People sat around and talked The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! about the best model for pursuing a healthy I ask the member for Narre Warren South to return to multiculturalism in Victoria. If I recall correctly, it was the motion. led by Liberal minister Haddon Storey at the time. This Ms GRALEY — As the members for Yuroke and is another example of the bipartisan approach Lara said, on this side of the house we are proud of our Victorians expect from government when it comes to record on multiculturalism. Victoria has a proud history multicultural affairs. What is happening with this bill is in this area. Even members on the other side of the a real shame, one which many people are concerned house have always championed multiculturalism in about. Because of the lack of consultation, we have no Victoria. I understand the Premier recently made an understanding — and the bill certainly does not give us excellent speech at a Victorian Multicultural that understanding — about the transition from one Commission (VMC) dinner which many people authority to another. attended. However, people from the Indian, Greek and I understand even people in the department are Latin American communities are coming to my office struggling to comprehend exactly what is happening, so and asking, ‘Judith, what is going on in Victoria with what hope do people in the community, who often have the changes to this act?’. Many people are upset, and limited resources, have in trying to deal with what they they are asking me very pertinently — — consider to be dramatic changes regarding the very The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! good things that so many of them are doing in the I again ask the member to return to the motion. community?

Ms GRALEY — They are asking, ‘Why did Motion agreed to. George have to go?’. They are wondering what has happened, and they are asking, ‘What do we need to do to keep our funding? What is changing here? What is happening?’. They are very disturbed. I say to the members opposite, who are trying to increase the teaching of languages in schools, that one of the basic things you have to understand when dealing with ethnic groups is that you have to give them the time and resources to understand change.

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BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE adjournment at 10.00 p.m. Of course a minister can move that the sitting be continued, but otherwise the Sessional orders question that the house adjourn is put automatically, without debate. The new standing order makes no Mr McINTOSH (Minister for Corrections) — I change to this procedure except by adopting the clear move: present practice of the house — that is, that it usually sits for a shorter time on Thursday. It also That the following new sessional order be adopted, to come into operation with immediate effect: acknowledges that the time for remaining government business has usually concluded by 4.00 p.m. on ‘8 Interruption of business for adjournment Thursday. Standing order 32 be suspended and the following to apply: Of course there is always the opportunity for a sitting to be continued on the motion of a minister. That option (1) Subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), the Speaker will will remain, and it may be the common practice in interrupt the business before the house at: relation to second-reading speeches — we will have to (a) 10.00 p.m. each sitting Tuesday and Wednesday; wait and see. I note that certainly in the last two years of the former government’s administration a number of (b) 4.00 p.m. on any other sitting day. second-reading speeches were made during the course of the debate. This government has not availed itself of (2) If a division is taking place when the time for the interruption arises, the division will be completed and that option on too many occasions. Second-reading the result announced. If the division is on a closure speeches will be made later this afternoon, but I motion, and the motion is agreed to, the question or understand that will only be a matter of some questions then required to be put to close the issue 15 minutes, so it should not trouble the house too much. before the house will also be dealt with. The Speaker will then interrupt business. The change is to reflect the common practice in this (3) If the time for the interruption arises: house — that is, to adjourn at 4.00 p.m. on most sitting Thursdays, or any sitting days other than Tuesdays or (a) at the same time as the completion time set by the Wednesdays. As I said, in each case there is still the government business program; or opportunity to extend the sitting in circumstances where (b) after the interruption for the completion time of the further business needs to be transacted, but the question government business program, but before all would automatically be put at 4.00 p.m. business on the program has been dealt with — The second substantial change is made by all business on the government business program will be paragraph (3), which talks about the government completed first. The Speaker will then interrupt business business program. The government business program for the adjournment. has been extensively used during the 11 years I have (4) After the interruption: been in this Parliament. It has been common practice, but there is a slight anomaly in relation to it. Under the (a) before a motion for the adjournment is proposed by the Speaker, a minister may move that the sitting existing regime it would occur only at 10.00 p.m. on be continued. That motion must be put any sitting day, and the anomaly is that if we had a immediately without amendment or debate. If it is government business program concluding on Tuesday agreed to, the house will resume debate at the point or Wednesday, then the questions may not be put. They at which it had been interrupted; or would have to be put before the automatic adjournment (b) if a motion is not moved, the Speaker will or the sitting would have to be continued. This change immediately propose the question ‘That the house makes it perfectly clear that if there is a government now adjourns’. Any business under discussion and business program set for the same time as the any other business not concluded at the time of the adjournment, then the government business program adjournment will be listed on the notice paper for the next sitting day. Any member speaking at the would be cleared before the automatic adjournment time of the interruption may, when debate resumes, takes place. continue his or her speech.’. Apart from those two substantial changes, the new The new sessional order largely replicates existing sessional order in effect replicates existing standing standing order 32 but makes two significant changes, order 32. As I said, for many years it has been the which I will outline to the house. The first is a change common practice for the house to sit for only a limited to the current arrangement whereby on any day the time on Thursday, with the questions for the house sits there is the opportunity for an automatic government business program being ultimately put at

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4.00 p.m. The new sessional order merely reflects the The change in proposed standing order 8(1)(b) goes one fact that on any sitting day there is the ability to move big step further, and it is that big step that the an extension of the sitting and provides for an opposition takes issue with. Bringing in a requirement automatic adjournment at the time that is the common that the house adjourn at 4 o’clock on any other sitting practice of this house. day constricts the opportunity for the Parliament to have a full debate on a range of different matters. Over I commend the motion to the house. my 11 years in this chamber it has been the case from time to time that we have sat late on Thursday; indeed I Ms ALLAN (Bendigo East) — I rise to make a recall that we have sat on Friday from time to time. The contribution to this debate regarding the new sessional reason those circumstances arose under the previous order moved by the Leader of the House. It was government was that we had a full legislative program. discussed yesterday and we are debating it today. We We came to office ready to go; we were ready with an appreciate that the government is very keen to have this agenda to implement new programs and new policies sessional order adopted and to have it become part of for Victoria. the practice of this chamber as soon as possible. I will come to the reasons for that in a moment. Unfortunately what we have seen over the four sitting weeks of this government — and let us not forget the For the information of the Leader of the House and the one glorious day we sat to open the Parliament before government, the opposition will not be supporting these Christmas — the government business programs and changes to the sessional orders, which I will go through the passage of legislation through this Parliament have shortly. been nothing short of a shambles.

In his contribution the Leader of the House suggested Let us recap and cast our minds back to those shambles. that the changes to the sessional order largely replicate When this Parliament opened we had a sitting week of the current practice under standing order 32. Whilst that one day. Members of the opposition were keen to have may be true in part, it is not true in the whole. The a full parliamentary week; we were keen to sit on change to the sessional order outlined in Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of that week, or paragraphs 3(a) and 3(b) cover matters the opposition even have a Wednesday, Thursday and Friday session, takes no issue with. I think the Leader of the House said but members of the government were only interested in this change redresses an anomaly when there is conflict sitting for one day. They were more interested in between the government business program and the having their garden party, with the cucumber adjournment of the house landing at the same time in sandwiches and the orange juice in the parliamentary the course of a sitting day, and it certainly makes sense gardens and the hats and the celebrations on the floor of that that change be made. If members of the the Parliament. That is what members of the government would like to extract that part of the government were more interested in. sessional order and put it forward separately as an individual item, they would find that opposition As you will recall, Acting Speaker, this situation was members would support that part of the sessional order. exposed when the opposition forced members of the government to bring in their legislative program. The However, the area opposition members take issue with government was quite content to have bills introduced is contained in paragraph 1(b). It appears that the but not exposed to scrutiny over the Christmas period. government is very keen to gag parliamentary debate at Opposition members called on the government — we 4.00 o’clock on every Thursday of every sitting week. used parliamentary procedures — requiring the At the moment the interruption for the adjournment is government to second-read those bills and expose them at 10.00 p.m. each sitting day, and we have established to scrutiny, and we had to do it repeatedly because the over quite a period of time that there is routine that government was not ready to get down to work. Parliament adjourns at 10 o’clock on Tuesday and Wednesday nights and then on Thursday, to facilitate a Then there was the start of the 2011 sitting year and number of things — including the second-reading sitting weeks with very skinny legislative programs, speeches that need to be delivered by government and this week provides an illustrative example of how ministers or perhaps the need for members to get back skinny the legislative program has been. Once again it to their electorates ready to spend Friday in their shows that members of the government are just not offices — it has been a convention that the house ready. They are happy to debate censure motions and ceases its business at 4 o’clock and the government puts attack opposition members relentlessly. They are quite in place the guillotine on the government business happy to pull stunts, such as introducing the program. Parliamentary Salaries and Superannuation

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Amendment Bill 2011, which provides for fining that was playing today. I wish I had a good excuse for members of Parliament. Members of the government not being here. I wish I was up at Mount Hotham or are quite happy to pull stunts and engage in those sorts even in Mildura visiting the member for Mildura. I of activities, but they are not quite ready to do the hard wish I was somewhere else. I wish I was anywhere but work that the Victorian public elected them to do. here having to continue this charade of defending the Treasurer’. These events have led to a circumstance where a proposed sessional order is being brought in not to help This state of affairs continued through question time the smooth running of Parliament or the procedures of yesterday, and indeed to today. Repeatedly members of this place and not to see legislation pass in a timely the government have stood up demanding that the manner; this sessional order is being brought in as yet Treasurer be allowed to go to the ministerial council another example of this government failing to do its job meeting. Go! We agree: he should go. We have properly and wanting to hide the Treasurer from the supported him in going. Then yesterday it was revealed ministerial council meeting in Canberra. that he is going, so what was all the fuss about? What was all that bluff and bluster about? He is going. There I have a theory on this bluff and bluster we have seen is no need for a pair to be provided. The absence of the from the government over the Treasurer’s attendance of Treasurer does not change the circumstances on the the ministerial council meeting. I think government floor of the Parliament, so what was all the fuss about? members quite enjoy it. I think they are quite happy for You can only wonder what the fuss was all about. this to continue for quite a while, because it covers up their true feelings on this matter. Government members Mr Holding — It was just a try-on. are quite happy for the Treasurer not to go and quite happy for him not to be exposed at the national level — Ms ALLAN — It was a try-on. Members of the at a national forum — as being the incompetent government were trying to conceal the real reason, Treasurer that he is. I think they are secretly quite which is that they did not want to send the Treasurer to pleased. Canberra. They were quite happy for him to be tucked up on level 4 at 1 Treasury Place, surrounded by his Honourable members interjecting. bureaucrats in his little cocoon. They do not really want to let him out and be exposed to the rough and tumble The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! of ministerial councils, because they know he would be The member for Bendigo East, without assistance. chronically exposed for his inability to do the job that is required of a Victorian Treasurer. Ms ALLAN — We only have to look at the bluff and bluster to which we have been subjected over the We are a major economy, not just by Australian last few days for proof of that. On Saturday afternoon standards but internationally. We are an important out trotted the Attorney-General, who very solemnly economy. We are an economy that is in transition. We declared the travesty that was brought on the state of are an economy that needs not just a safe pair of hands Victoria and the need for the Treasurer to attend the but a clever pair of hands — and we are not getting that ministerial council meeting in Canberra. What was the from this Treasurer. During the Treasurer’s past, response of the opposition? The opposition’s response applications he made to be the treasurer of his local has always been that the Treasurer should go. The issue scout group or similar organisations were probably of the Treasurer’s attendance at the ministerial council rejected. I am sure he would have been rejected for meeting tomorrow in Canberra is not a matter for the appointment to such roles in the past. But he is our opposition. Here is a newsflash for the government: it is Treasurer now. He is the Victorian Treasurer. Once the government, and it has to run its own diary. It is not again the government is trying to hide him away from my job, the shadow Treasurer’s job or the Leader of the scrutiny, just as it did for each and every one of the Opposition’s job to run the Treasurer’s diary; it is the days of the election campaign last November. It does Treasurer’s job and his office’s job to run his own not want to put the Treasurer up for scrutiny, and it is diary. He makes those decisions himself; it is not our trying to blame the opposition once again. Whenever job. the government gets into a bit of a pickle somehow it is the opposition’s fault. Government members go Obviously the poor old Attorney-General drew the through their list of excuses. ‘What is it today? Oh, we short straw on Saturday; he was the minister on media will use that one we love the best — playing the duty that day, so they wheeled him out. I can imagine opposition’. Somehow election commitments that were him sitting there in his office saying, ‘I wish I had not met by the government are the opposition’s fault. followed football. I wish I barracked for an AFL team The decision to not commit to fund the Olivia

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Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre is somehow Ms ALLAN — On this matter of pairs, we were a our fault — but it is not our fault that the Treasurer minority government and were not provided with a pair failed to include it in his costings document — — between 1999 and 2002 for ministers to attend ministerial council meetings. That is a fact. That is the Mr McIntosh — On a point of order, Acting practice that those opposite followed when they were in Speaker, this is drivel. This is utter drivel. I ask you to opposition; that is what was continued. In the past direct the member back to the motion. 11½ years that has been the practice and custom of this house. What we are seeing now is that the government The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! is trying — — I think it was more editorial comment, but I would appreciate it if the debate were turned closer to the Mr McIntosh — You petty little thing. motion before the house. The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! Ms ALLAN — The motion before the house is The member for Bendigo East, without assistance from about the government trying to restructure the standing the Leader of the House. and sessional orders, just as it has had to restructure its government business program so it can make sure that Ms ALLAN — On a point of order, Acting Speaker, the Treasurer goes to Canberra tomorrow. That is what I ask that the minister withdraw that reference to me as we support. We support the Treasurer going to being a ‘petty little thing’. Canberra for the Ministerial Council on Federal Financial Relations. The government should not give us Mr McIntosh — I withdraw. this charade along the way. It is trying to cover up its embarrassment about this Treasurer, and we are seeing Ms ALLAN — The difference between 1999–2002 this with excuse after excuse from both the Treasurer and today is that the government is a majority and the government not wanting to get on and do their government, not a minority government. It has the job. numbers on the floor of the Parliament. We accepted the outcome of the election of last November. It is just a I would now like to address the issue of pairs, because damn shame for the state of Victoria that members it has been raised repeatedly over the course of today. I opposite have not done their job. They are not doing the was a member of a minority government between 1999 job they were elected to do. They have used every and 2002. During that time pairs were not provided to opportunity to blame the opposition for their failures. the government to attend ministerial council meetings. Whether it be failing to deliver on projects or failing to Indeed if you look at the pairs book, you will see that a fund their commitments, they blame the opposition for pair was provided in 1993. I am not sure of the reason their failures. When it comes to procedures in this why — — house we are seeing the government once again trying to use the opposition as an excuse. Mr McIntosh — It was 2003. I will tell the government one thing: we are not going to Ms ALLAN — It was 1993. If the Leader of the play that game. We can see the government for what it House checks the pairs book, as I did yesterday — — is. We can see that the government does not want to carry out the job it was elected to do. Mr McIntosh interjected. Sitting suspended 1.00 p.m. until 2.03 p.m. Ms ALLAN — I said 1993. If the Leader of the House would clean the wax out of his ears and stop Business interrupted pursuant to standing orders. trying to bully those opposite, he might hear the contributions we are making. DISTINGUISHED VISITORS Mr McIntosh — On a point of order, Acting Speaker, the manager of opposition business is just The SPEAKER — Order! Before calling for wasting the time of the house. It is utter drivel, and I ask questions I would like to acknowledge in the gallery you to bring her back to the motion before the house. today the Victorian Youth Week Ambassador, Laura John. Welcome to you, and welcome to this house of The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Morris) — Order! democracy here in Victoria. As a youth ambassador we There is no point of order. particularly welcome you here to the Parliament, and we thank you.

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I would also like to acknowledge in the gallery Don Mr Clark — I was in the house last night when the Hayward, the former Minister for Education in the Speaker reported on the matter, and I listened to the Kennett government. It is great to see you here, Don. numerous points of order that were raised at that time. Thank you, and feel welcome. Speaker, as you indicated at that time, you have done what you had undertaken to do, which was to make Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, yesterday inquiries. You have received an account of the matter in I raised with you an incident that occurred in the response to various points of order that were raised on parliamentary precinct involving the member for that occasion. You indicated your conclusion on the Tarneit and a government staff member. I requested matters that had been raised. It seems to me that this that you consider this matter and advise if you believed was in effect a matter of etiquette. It has been dealt with the longstanding protocols and practices governing the on that basis, and you have fully discharged your recording of members of Parliament needed to be duties. These points of order are spurious in the extreme updated. In response you simply read into Hansard a and should not be taken further. letter from the Premier’s chief of staff which conceded that the issues I raised on the point of order were an The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point accurate account, but it then went on to make gratuitous of order. comments about my reasons for raising this matter.

I ask you whether the reading of this letter into Hansard QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE constitutes what you would describe as a completely independent investigation into this matter, and I repeat Mr Finn (Western Metropolitan Region): my request from yesterday that you advise the house, in comments light of the incident involving the member for Tarneit, whether you believe the longstanding protocols and Ms GARRETT (Brunswick) — My question is to practices governing the recording of members of the Premier. I refer the Premier to the Islamic Council Parliament need to be updated. of Victoria’s submission to a federal parliamentary inquiry, as reported in the Herald Sun of Monday, that The SPEAKER — Order! Yesterday I made some Victorians of the Islamic faith are concerned inquiries, and I have made further inquiries since then. about racism, and I ask: does the Premier condone the There are no set protocols in place. I believe members Facebook comments of Bernie Finn, a member for of Parliament have always been in a position where Western Metropolitan Region in the Council, on this they have used media people to record interviews with matter? He stated: the media. The matter was dealt with last night, and I consider the matter dealt with properly. I don’t understand how concerns about a religion that seems to sanction decapitation can be construed as racism. Mr Hulls — On the point of order, Speaker, as you Mr BAILLIEU (Premier) — I am pleased to get a would know, and as you have stated in this house on question about multiculturalism, because many occasions, the role of an independent Speaker is multiculturalism in this state has been important to the to act without fear or favour and to treat all sides state’s continuing development. equally. To assert that your inquiry simply involves quoting a political letter from the Premier’s chief of Honourable members interjecting. staff is, I respectfully suggest, not an independent inquiry. If you are asserting that it is, I suggest that you The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the perhaps re-read yesterday’s Hansard — your Opposition! contribution in Hansard and the issue raised by the manager of opposition business — and then reconsider Mr BAILLIEU — We will stand up and defend whether you believe your response was an independent multiculturalism at every opportunity. response or a political response. Honourable members interjecting. Mr Clark — On the point of order, Speaker, the The SPEAKER — Order! The member for point made by the Deputy Leader of the Opposition is a Footscray is on a warning. gross misrepresentation of what occurred in the house last night. As you undertook — — Mr BAILLIEU — And there is a bipartisan approach to multiculturalism. I have not seen the Mr Andrews — You weren’t here! comments to which the member refers.

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 977

Ms Garrett — On a point of order, Speaker, I am Mr BAILLIEU — As I say, Speaker, I have not more than happy — and seek to do so — to table the seen the comments — — documents to assist the Premier. If the Premier is unable or unwilling to answer the question, we can Honourable members interjecting. assist him with the information necessary. The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of Opposition is warned. order. Mr BAILLIEU — I have not seen the comments. I Honourable members interjecting. would encourage all Victorians to demonstrate tolerance, demonstrate their commitment to The SPEAKER — Order! We do not need props. I multiculturalism — — ask the Leader of the Opposition to put that down. Ms Garrett — On a point of order, Speaker, the Ms Garrett — On a point of order, Speaker, I have Premier may not have seen the comments and he may sought to table the document which is pertinent to this be unwilling to read them now, but he heard them, and I question, and I seek a ruling on it. ask that he come back to the question and answer the question that was asked. It was: what is his position on The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of the comments made by someone in his own order, and this is not the time to table documents. government team?

Honourable members interjecting. The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point of order. The Premier’s answer was relevant to the The SPEAKER — Order! I have ruled on the point question that was asked. of order. There is no point of order. This is not the time to be tabling documents. Mr BAILLIEU — I suspect that opposition members are not interested in an answer. They are Ms Garrett — On a further point of order, Speaker, interested in the question, not the answer. I would this is a very important matter to everyone in Victoria. I encourage all Victorians to demonstrate their tolerance seek leave to table this document that shows that and demonstrate their commitment to multiculturalism. members of this government — Mr Hulls — On a point of order, Speaker, the The SPEAKER — Order! Premier is clearly debating the question. The point of Ms Garrett — are out putting things on their order is quite simple. The question was: does the Facebook — — Premier support the dog-whistling policies of Mr Bernie Finn or not — yes or no? The SPEAKER — Order! I will not tolerate such behaviour in the chamber. When I call for order, that is Dr Napthine — On a point of order, Speaker, what what I want from the member for Brunswick. The we have seen from the opposition is an orchestrated member has raised her point of order and I have ruled pattern of behaviour which has clearly demonstrated its against the point of order. If the member wants to table lack of commitment to democracy, lack of commitment a document, she should do it when it is meant to be to a fair go and lack of commitment to getting an tabled. answer to the question

Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, just to The SPEAKER — Order! What is the member’s assist the opposition with this request that has been point of order? made by the member for Brunswick, under standing Dr Napthine — The Premier was being relevant to order 145 the member may seek leave to table a the question. He has hardly had an opportunity to document without giving prior notice. That is exactly answer the question, and I ask you to allow the Premier what the member for Brunswick was doing, and your to answer the question without being continually guidance on this matter would be appreciated. interrupted by this antidemocratic mob over the other The SPEAKER — Order! Documents are to be side. tabled at the appropriate time, not during question time. Honourable members interjecting. I ruled on that yesterday when the member for Bendigo East asked to table a document. The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point of order raised by the Minister for Ports.

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Ms Garrett — On the point of order, Speaker, given The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Melton that we are at the heart of democracy in this chamber, I is on a warning. ask that the Premier answer the question he has been asked: does he condone the comments? Mr BAILLIEU — Today I again wrote in good faith to the Leader of the Opposition seeking a The SPEAKER — Order! I had ruled on the point reconsideration of his position. He wrote back to me of order. I do not uphold the point of order. The this morning, and he has again declined to reconsider. Premier’s response has been relevant to the question He has acknowledged that the opposition is prepared to that was asked. give a pair in the other house, but it will not give a pair for the Treasurer in this house. Accordingly we are Mr BAILLIEU — I say again that I would taking steps to make provisions — — encourage all Victorians to demonstrate tolerance, common sense and sensitivity in dealing with Honourable members interjecting. multiculturalism and the related issues. Multiculturalism has been good for this state, and we The SPEAKER — Order! I do not want to have to stand by it. warn the Leader of the Opposition again. Treasurer: ministerial council attendance Mr BAILLIEU — We are in the process of taking steps to facilitate the Treasurer’s visit, if that remains Ms MILLER (Bentleigh) — My question is to the possible. What we have learnt in the last few sitting Premier. Can he inform the house of progress to ensure weeks of Parliament is that some members of this that Victoria is properly represented tomorrow at the chamber are prepared to obstruct, undermine, disrupt, meeting of the Ministerial Council for Federal Financial quibble and do anything they possibly can to hobble the Relations in Canberra so that the very best case to operations of the Parliament. That is fine; some people reverse the $2.5 billion cut to our state’s GST revenue can do that. It is childish, but they have the right to do can be put forward? it. They will be judged accordingly.

Mr BAILLIEU (Premier) — As members would However, some members of this house have remained know, the commonwealth, through the Commonwealth absolutely silent about the $2.5 billion cut to Victoria’s Grants Commission, has recently cut $2.5 billion from revenues. Some members are actually cheering from Victoria’s GST revenues over the next few years. In the sidelines, saying, ‘Take more!’ and inviting the response to the serious impact this will have on the commonwealth to take more. Some people are urging state’s budget position and Victorian families, the the commonwealth — — Victorian Treasurer wrote to the federal Treasurer and pointed out flaws in the system which was used to Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, I refer to make the decision about the $2.5 billion cut. The Prime page 158 of Rulings from the Chair dated November Minister recognised the logic of the Treasurer’s 2010, where the issue of opposition policy is argument and has called for a review of the system. In mentioned. It says, ‘A minister should not be invited to doing so the Prime Minister has indicated that the comment on opposition policy’. The Premier is clearly system is flawed, but that is the system that is being not addressing matters of government administration. used to take $2.5 billion out of Victoria’s revenues. The government decided two days ago to send the That will have a significant effect on Victorian families. Treasurer to the ministerial council meeting. It has nothing to do with the opposition. It is entirely a matter We have sought to have representation of Victoria’s for the government. I suggest that the Premier is out of interests by the Treasurer at the ministerial council order in answering this question. meeting tomorrow. The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of Honourable members interjecting. order.

The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the Mr BAILLIEU — As I was saying, some members Opposition! of this chamber are actually hoping for a deeper cut. They want Victorian families to lose — — Mr BAILLIEU — We wrote to the opposition last week seeking a pair for the Treasurer. I am sorry to say Mr Foley — On a point of order, Speaker, the that that request was declined. member for Bentleigh’s question was about Victoria being adequately represented. I do not think the Premier Honourable members interjecting. is answering the question in an appropriate manner in

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 979 that if Victoria were to be adequately represented, the fact is that this is another aspect of a pattern of last person you would send would be the Treasurer. I behaviour adopted by the opposition and led by the ask that — — Leader of the Opposition which is intended to achieve the situation of questions being repeated without the The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of minister, who is the subject of those questions, having a order. proper opportunity to answer those questions in a respectful manner. I ask you, Speaker, to rule this point Mr BAILLIEU — On the point of order, Speaker, I of order out of order. think we have just seen a demonstration of the absolute epitome of this opposition’s capacity to disrupt. The SPEAKER — Order! I do rule the point of order out of order. The minister was being relevant. It The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point was a question in regard to category 1 reports, and she of order. It was a frivolous point of order. was answering in regard to category 1 reports.

Mr BAILLIEU — Some people in this chamber are Ms WOOLDRIDGE — Where it is clear that the looking for a greater cut, and I ask: why would some response of the department and the response of the people do that? They wish to satisfy their objective of police are appropriate and that all appropriate actions disrupting and hobbling the Victorian economy and have been taken in relation to the child, the staff and the making things harder for Victorian families. In the investigations, I do not intervene. When I do intervene reply I got from the Leader of the Opposition there is is when it is needed to ensure the safety of the child and not one mention of the $2.5 billion cut, there is no to make sure that appropriate investigations are acknowledgement of how inappropriate it is and there conducted. Having been satisfied that the child is safe, is no acknowledgement of the flaw in the system. my focus is then on where the failures have occurred. I Opposition members do not care. ask whether we have failed to respond to the incident, Minister for Community Services: critical whether there is a failure in terms of the process, whether there is a failure of response in the system or incident reports whether there is a failure in the policy. That is when I Mr ANDREWS (Leader of the Opposition) — My intervene to make sure that our response to the incident question is to the Minister for Community Services. I is appropriate and the child is safe. That is what I will ask the minister how many category 1 critical incident continue to do because of the many hundreds of reports has she read and noted since becoming Minister incidents that are the result of the failure over 11 years for Community Services. of Labor to protect children who are vulnerable in this state. Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Community Services) — I thank the Leader of the Opposition for Former government: renewable energy policy his question. Category 1 incidents are traumatic, Dr SYKES (Benalla) — My question is to the heartbreaking and incredibly disappointing when they Minister for Energy and Resources. Will the minister occur. They include incidents of self-harm, allegations advise the house of the findings of the Auditor-General of sexual assault, harm from alcohol and drugs, concerning the former Labor government’s renewable accidents — all types of incidents are reported. I can energy programs and the consequences of those assure the house that all category 1 reports received by findings for current government policy? my office have been read and dealt with absolutely appropriately. The reports have been read and acted Ms Green interjected. upon by my office. It is clear that the response of the department and the response of the police are The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Yan appropriate. My office is satisfied — — Yean is on a warning.

Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, in Ms Green interjected. relation to relevance, the question was about reports the minister has read. The question did not relate to her The SPEAKER — Order! I will not ask the staff or her office; it was about how many reports she member for Yan Yean again. has read. It is a very simple question indeed. How many reports has she, not her staff, read? Mr O’BRIEN (Minister for Energy and Resources) — Members would be familiar with the fact Mr Ryan — On the point of order, Speaker, this that the Auditor-General’s report on facilitating point of order should be ruled out of order. The simple

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980 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 renewable energy development was tabled in the house 0.3 per cent over seven years. In seven years all the this morning. government could come up with was a 0.3 per cent increase. It is no wonder that the Auditor-General found Ms Green interjected. that ‘Using targets to facilitate the development of renewable energy has not been effective’. The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Yan Yean is on her second warning. The Auditor-General went further. This might be of interest to members opposite. He referred to the flaws, Mr O’BRIEN — I am afraid I have to report to the the lack of planning, the lack of business cases and the house that this Auditor-General’s report has blown the absolute failure of the former government to do its whistle on the former Labor government’s dishonesty homework, and then he said: and incompetence when it came to renewable energy policy. There is no doubt this report shows that Labor The same issue was raised in our November 2009 report, failed the environment and failed Victorian families. Towards a ‘Smart Grid’ — the Roll-out of Advanced Metering Infrastructure … There is one absolutely crystal clear finding, but I will give the house some history first. In July 2010 the The party that gave us the smart meters has done the former Labor government announced it was same thing to solar energy. It has jacked up power bills, introducing a large-scale solar feed-in tariff, which is it has failed on wind, it has failed on solar, it has failed essentially a way of saying that large-scale solar on the cost of living, it has failed on the environment generators will get paid a premium price for the energy and it has failed Victorian families. they produce. At the time a lot of questions were asked Minister for Community Services: about how much of an impact that would have on the departmental briefings electricity bills of Victorian families. The Premier of the day could not have been clearer. In an interview that Mr DONNELLAN (Narre Warren North) — My he gave to the Climate Spectator publication he said: question is to the Minister for Community Services. I So it is the feed-in tariff that would provide the necessary refer the minister to her answer yesterday, when she financial support for those projects. You saw the numbers we rejected the assertion that she had directed the ran out, starting at $5 a household, building to $15 … department not to send her briefs and to the subsequent admission in the Age this morning that this had indeed The former government was absolutely clear: this occurred, and I ask: at what point after question time large-scale solar feed-in tariff would cost Victorian did the minister remember this directive had been households between $5 and $15 a year. What did the issued? Auditor-General find? The Auditor-General found when examining this scheme that: Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Community Services) — I thank the member for his question. As a This represents an increase in average annual household electricity bills of $23 to $47 each year over the lifetime of minister it is perfectly reasonable to help to refine and the scheme. improve the briefing and advice — —

The claim from Labor was that the increase would be Honourable members interjecting. between $5 and $15, but the Auditor-General found it would be between $23 and $47. Those figures were The SPEAKER — Order! The minister will be known by the government of the day. This did not heard in silence. involve the then Premier going off on a frolic of his own; this was a matter that the government knew about. Ms WOOLDRIDGE — It is perfectly reasonable The government knew about those figures, and it stood as a minister for me to want to reform the advice that is by mute while the former Premier peddled to Victorian provided to my office and to me and to improve it in families a lie about the impact of Labor policies on the terms of its quality, its content and its timeliness. What cost of their power bills. Members opposite are we want is a closer relationship with departmental accessories before and after the fact. It is absolutely officers so they can pick up the phone and talk to us disgraceful. about what they are briefing on, what the advice is and what we are thinking in relation to that. That is the Let us look at the targets the former government set for process that we are developing to improve our advice renewable energy. What did the Auditor-General find? and my decision making — — He found that instead of Victoria’s share of renewable energy increasing by 6 per cent it had increased by just Mr Madden interjected.

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 981

The SPEAKER — Order! The member for other duties. We are pleased and proud to announce that Essendon is on a warning. we will have those additional 600 police officers out there. Ms WOOLDRIDGE — That is the process we are developing to improve my advice and the decision It is very important that the house appreciate that the making in relation to vulnerable Victorians, which is distribution of police and their allocation to police where our focus and priority is. I was involved in stations around Victoria is done using Victoria Police’s determining that we needed to improve the advice that I demand-based model. The Chief Commissioner of was — — Police makes the decisions about where these police are allocated. We are delighted to see that that Mr Madden interjected. decision-making process has resulted in great outcomes for the respective communities of so many members of The SPEAKER — Order! The member for this house. Essendon! I know the member for Frankston will be delighted that Ms WOOLDRIDGE — Of course I was involved 35 additional police officers are going to be allocated to in determining that we need better, more timely, more the police station in Frankston by 30 June. But it does relevant and more engaged advice from my department. not stop there; there is more good news. Ballarat will I did not draft the email, and I was not copied into the get 24 additional police; Bendigo, 12; Mildura, 14; email, but there is a system in place to improve the Latrobe, 16; Brimbank, 24; Melbourne, 21; advice we receive so that we can make better decisions Shepparton, 11; Hume, 18 — and on the list goes. for vulnerable young people — in contrast to the last These police officers will be located throughout 11 years under the government of those opposite. Victoria not only at police stations but also on our Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker — and I transport system. There are many waited an appropriate period of time before raising this programs — — point of order — the minister was not answering the Mr Eren — On a point of order, Speaker, the question she was asked, which was: at what point minister has been talking for some 3 minutes now, and during yesterday afternoon did she realise that she had he has indicated that there will be an extra 1700 police instructed her department that she did not want to know officers. I ask him: when are the 70 extra police officers about vulnerable children? coming to Geelong, because we have only got 8 so far?

The SPEAKER — Order! The minister had The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of concluded her answer. There is no point of order. order. The member for Lara can ask a question later.

Police: election commitment Mr RYAN — These extra police officers being available helps with the transport system, as I said to Mr SHAW (Frankston) — My question is to the the house yesterday. Operation Barracuda, which is Deputy Premier, who is also the Minister for Police and very important, operates during the day, and it is Emergency Services. Will the minister inform the important to support that program. Then there is house of the government’s commitment to deliver Operation Trojan, which can operate at any hour of the 1700 new police officers to protect Victorian families day or night. There is also Operation Omni, which has and make our streets safe again? recently been very successful in picking up people who Mr RYAN (Minister for Police and Emergency choose to go onto railway stations armed with a Services) — I thank the member for Frankston for his weapon of some sort. There is the new transit force, very good question. As a government we are which is a group of about 25 police officers who are proceeding with the commitment we made to the available day and night to go to those trouble spots in Victorian public that we will provide 1700 front-line our transport system where assistance might be needed. operational police by the time our first term concludes. This means police have a variety of mechanisms This is necessary because we need to address the available to them to help them assist the travelling chronic shortage of police officers in Victoria, public of Victoria, which I am sure everybody in the particularly as a result of the policies of the former house well understands is necessary. In addition to all failed Labor government. As has been announced this this, we are going to have more police officers being week, another 600 police will be out there on the front rolled out over the balance of our period in government. line by 30 June; 450 of them having graduated from the We need to do that, because under the former academy and 150 of them having been redeployed from

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982 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 government’s policies Victoria had sunk to the stage The SPEAKER — Order! The member for where the then government was spending less per Bendigo East’s constant chatter across the table is not capita on front-line operational police than was spent in good, and I would like it to stop. any other state in the nation. We had fewer front-line operational police per capita in Victoria than in any Ms WOOLDRIDGE — We will continue to focus other state in the nation. It is an appalling legacy. on the safety and protection of vulnerable children as the priority and to reform a system that has been left in When we released our proposal to fix this it was called crisis by the Labor government. magic pudding economics — that is what the former Attorney-General called it — but the former Rail: Cardinia Road and Lynbrook stations government then made poor efforts to try to match what we said we would do. We have undertaken to provide Mr BATTIN (Gembrook) — My question is to the 1700 police, and we will do that. Minister for Public Transport. Can the minister advise the house of any cost blow-outs he has identified as a Children: protection result of the previous government’s failure to properly provide essential infrastructure for the new Lynbrook Mr ANDREWS (Leader of the Opposition) — My and Cardinia Road stations on the Cranbourne-Pakenham question is again to the Minister for Community line? Services, and I ask: how is the minister’s directive not to receive category 2 child protection incident reports, An honourable member — Have you got your which include serious threats made against clients or notes, Terry? staff and client behaviour that could result in potential risk to others, consistent with her claim yesterday when Mr MULDER (Minister for Public Transport) — she said, ‘We know what is going on’. I’ve got my notes. Can I read again?

Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Community The SPEAKER — Order! I ask the minister to Services) — I thank the Leader of the Opposition once ignore interjections. again. There was no directive not to receive category 2 Mr MULDER — I thank the member for incident reports. Every matter that needs to be brought Gembrook for his question and for his great interest in to the attention of my office and me — — public transport. You would not get any clearer Mr Wynne interjected. example than what unfolded this week in front of the Victorian public in terms of a former Labor The SPEAKER — Order! The member for government’s incompetence in being able to present or Richmond is on a warning. produce a rail project for Victoria on budget and on time. The regional rail link project was a $1 billion-plus Ms WOOLDRIDGE — Every single matter that black hole — a project that was to be built without needed to be brought to the attention of my office and signalling to run the trains with, a project that was to be me, both incident reports and briefings, was provided to built without enough money to purchase the land on the office, and that is very clear. There has never been a which the rail line was going to run and a project that precedent for category 2 incident reports to be provided had no funding for the trains to run on the line. The as a matter of course either under the former former Labor government’s members brought the cart government or under this government. Certainly — — but they left the horse behind.

Mr Andrews interjected. It gets worse than that. Each and every rail project you look at that involved the former Labor government has The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the the same scenario. You can look at Laverton: an Opposition has asked his question. If he wants to ask ambulance trolley could not fit in the lift, and when the another question, he can get up and do so afterwards. lifts break down taxis turn up to take commuters to the other side of the station. You could look at Wodonga: Ms WOOLDRIDGE — My advice is that we are security guards have been employed to guard the getting information about all serious matters that need station there because the former Labor government to be brought to our attention. That is my advice in failed to oversee our investment in the relation to what has happened in the past and also what Albury-Wodonga–Melbourne rail project. is happening now — — When you think it could not get any worse, you find out Ms Allan interjected. it has got worse. I have advice from my department that

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 983 in relation to the Cardinia Road and Lynbrook stations, course we were going to get back to the water tower which were to be opened in late 2011, there is a further and the coke shovel. Was that the former government’s problem. These projects, once again, were not scoped idea with this particular project? It is an absolute properly by the former Labor government. debacle. Each and every railway project I look at, each and every project that the former government had its Ms Richardson — On a point of order, Speaker, I fingerprints on, turns out to be exactly the same. In ask that the minister table the advice he is reading from. terms of handling, scoping, costing and delivering projects, the former Labor government was absolutely The SPEAKER — Order! Is the minister reading hopeless. from advice? He is not reading from advice, so it cannot be tabled. Minister for Community Services: Honourable members interjecting. departmental briefings

The SPEAKER — Order! Was the minister Mr ANDREWS (Leader of the Opposition) — My reading? question is to the Minister for Community Services. I refer the minister to comments by her in this place, and Mr MULDER — I am not reading from advice, I quote, ‘We are committed to … greater transparency Speaker. It is advice I have received in relation to this. and accountability’. I ask: how is directing her department not to send her briefs and then refusing to The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of read the ones she gets consistent with providing greater order. transparency and accountability?

Mr MULDER — I am more than happy to give a Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Community run-down on the advice that I have received. Services) — I thank the Leader of the Opposition for his question. I am very pleased to provide more The SPEAKER — Order! I would ask the minister transparency in relation to child protection. Let us be to return to answering the question. transparent about the situation that is facing us: huge numbers of children without allocated caseworkers, Mr MULDER — I will give it to you right hundreds of category 1 incidents, thousands of now — — category 2 incidents just in three short months as a The SPEAKER — Order! I will sit the minister result of the failure in the system Labor has managed down. I ask the minister not to argue across the table, to for 11 years, massive turnover — — ignore interjections and to answer the question. Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, on Mr MULDER — The problem with both the the issue of relevance, the question was about the Cardinia Road and Lynbrook stations is that there is not minister’s processes in her office and her commitment enough overhead power to run the trains. There was not to transparency. She is happy to talk about 300 critical enough spark put into the project when the former incident reports but for two days running will not tell us Labor government decided to proceed with it. What the how many she has read. It is a simple question about advice is saying is that Lynbrook station trains could her own office and one she ought to answer. It was only operate under restrictions and Cardinia Road much easier for her to ask questions, it seems, than it is would be jeopardised because there would be no for her to answer them. redundancy remaining in the system. At the end of The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of 2011 we will have two railway stations completed and order. The minister was being relevant to the question ready to open but not enough power to run the trains that was asked. with. Ms WOOLDRIDGE — It is clear that the Once again we will be in the position we have been in opposition does not like — — up at Wodonga, where there are security fences and security guards while a power upgrade is carried out. I Honourable members interjecting. am advised that the power upgrade could take somewhere up to a further six months, so it will not be The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Yan completed until about the middle of 2012. We have this Yean! situation yet again. This was a smaller project. It was a simple project in relation to which you would have thought, no. 1, that trains need power — unless of

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984 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011

Ms WOOLDRIDGE — The opposition does not Rock Eisteddfod Challenge: funding like the transparency that shines the light on the mess its members left — — Ms McLEISH (Seymour) — My question is to the Minister for Youth Affairs. Will the minister provide an Mr Wynne interjected. update on the government’s promise to provide funding for the Rock Eisteddfod Challenge? The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Richmond! The member is on his second warning. Mr R. SMITH (Minister for Youth Affairs) — I thank the member for Seymour for her question and for Ms WOOLDRIDGE — It shines the light on the her interest in youth affairs. In the middle of National failure and the crisis in child protection that opposition Youth Week I am absolutely delighted to announce members left after 11 years of neglect. Foster carers funding of $200 000 towards the staging of this year’s were leaving in droves. We had front-line child Rock Eisteddfod Challenge, an event which protection workers leaving at massive rates, all because encompasses so many of the values and aims of of the system. The former government had 4000 days National Youth Week. This first instalment of $200 000 to run a child protection system, and frankly we are not is just part of the $800 000 that the coalition going to fix it in four days or four weeks or government has committed to the challenge over the four months; it is going to take a long time. But we are course of its first term. there for the long haul — — The Baillieu government is absolutely committed to Ms Green interjected. making sure that young people have access to the opportunities that encourage healthy and active Questions interrupted. involvement in recreation and the performing arts. These opportunities are why we are sponsoring the SUSPENSION OF MEMBER Rock Eisteddfod Challenge Foundation to deliver this very important secondary school-based event. The Member for Yan Yean Rock Eisteddfod Challenge is much more than just getting up on a stage to perform. It is about getting The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Yan physically active, it is about making friends and it is Yean has had her third warning. Under standing about having fun. In short, it is a great event. It is an order 124 I ask the member to leave the chamber for event that is embraced by many in the Victorian 1½ hours. community. That is why it was so surprising that the former government refused to step up and fund this Honourable member for Yan Yean withdrew from event last year. It was a real — — chamber. Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, the minister is offending against two standing orders. He is QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE debating the question and he is going down the path of misleading the house — and he is reading from his Ministerr fo Community Services: notes — because the former government did indeed departmental briefings support the Rock Eisteddfod organisation.

Questions resumed. The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of order. Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Community Services) — We are here for the long haul for children Ms Allan — Further on the point of order, who have been neglected and abused. We are not going Speaker — — to give up on them, as the previous government did. We are going to make sure they are safe, we are going to The SPEAKER — Order! Which point of order? make sure we have a system and policies in place and The first one or the second one? we are going to make sure that we have the transparency to shine the light on what was left by the Ms Allan — On a further point of order, Speaker, previous failed Labor government. you cannot deny that the minister was debating the matter. He was referring to the previous government — —

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The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE order. The minister was being relevant to the question that was asked regarding funding for the Rock Sessional orders Eisteddfod. Debate resumed. Mr Andrews — Speaker, I raise a point of order not on whether the minister’s answer is relevant to the Ms ALLAN (Bendigo East) — Before the lunch question but on whether he is debating the issue — and break we were debating the changes to the sessional he is clearly debating the issue. I am not challenging orders that the government is seeking to introduce. I whether it is relevant to the question, but he is clearly was reminding the house of the situation between 1999 debating the issue. That is not permitted under the and 2002 when the then Labor government was a standing orders and there have been numerous rulings minority government and the then Liberal-Nationals on debating in the last 150 years. coalition opposition refused to provide a pairing arrangement for ministers to attend ministerial council The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point meetings. of order. If I had considered the minister was debating the issue, I would have asked him to stop debating it. What we have seen repeatedly is a lot of bluff and bluster from those opposite over the true nature of this Mr R. SMITH — I can see why the opposition is debate. The opposition is not the story here. The embarrassed after it kicked Victorian students in the decision-making processes of the government are not a teeth last year. After the former government — — matter for the opposition to determine. In question time we saw once again that this government is failing to do Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, I put its job in governing for Victorians. It prefers to attack it to you respectfully that to refer to the opposition is the opposition. We saw the Premier make a hysterical debating the issue. It may be relevant, or the minister attack on the opposition. He was very happy to devote may see it as relevant, to the question he was asked. He enormous amounts of energy to hysteria in attacking is a minister and he ought be answering about the opposition over this issue but not when it came to government business and not attacking anyone else in the issue of refuting one of his colleagues, a member the chamber or previous governments. He is clearly for Western Metropolitan Region in another place, and debating the issue, and I ask you — as you just the comments made by the member for Brunswick indicated — to pull him up for clearly debating the during question time. Did the Premier show the same issue. passion and commitment to slap down those comments? No, he did not. The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point of order. However, we saw plenty of passion from the Premier when it came to attacking the opposition, and I think Mr R. SMITH — As a precursor to this funding that says it all about this government. It spends a lot of announcement I have to acknowledge the Minister for its time and energy attacking the opposition and Veterans’ Affairs for stepping up when he was the thinking up new and different ways to blame the shadow minister for youth affairs and encouraging the opposition for its inability to deliver on its election then opposition to commit this funding. I am very commitments. It spends question time talking about pleased to be able to fulfil the commitment we made opposition policy and opposition commitments rather before the election and come into this chamber to than government business. Really that is the great announce funding for this great event. failure of this government — —

I am absolutely delighted that students, teachers and Mrs Bauer interjected. parents will once again have the opportunity to come together to put on such an amazing event. They will be The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Carrum able to showcase their talents and show Victoria why will desist! we can be proud of our students. My message to all students during National Youth Week, and to all Ms ALLAN — The government needs to recognise students participating in this great event, is to get up that it has a job, and that is about governing. there and have some fun. I look forward to the opportunity of looking at some of the performances in Changing the sessional orders to make sure that the the future. Parliament behaves itself tomorrow and changing the government business program to minimise the issues around tomorrow is not governing. We just want the

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986 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 government to get on with its job and stop blaming the Ms ALLAN — I apologise, Speaker, and I hope that opposition for its failures and problems. As I said what I claimed was not correct. As I said, I would hope earlier, there are parts of this motion around the that there would be an opportunity — — sessional orders that the opposition would be comfortable with. They go to the issue where there is a Mr McIntosh interjected. conflict between the government business program and the adjournment, which is dealt with in Ms ALLAN — You can roll them as much as you paragraphs (3)(a) and (b) of the sessional order like. You can do it as much as you like! proposed by the government’s motion. If the The SPEAKER — Order! The member should government was happy to consult with the opposition, ignore interjections from across the table. we would be willing to work towards putting that change to the sessional orders through the Parliament. Ms ALLAN — It would be an opportunity now for the government to perhaps draw a line in the sand, to However, we have an issue with paragraph (1)(b) of the reach out to the opposition and say, ‘Let’s have some proposed sessional order. The issue of consultation is cooperation and consultation on the operation of this an interesting one, because this motion and the one Parliament. Let’s have some discussion about how moved before it regarding changing the orders of the Parliament operates’. If we want this Parliament to day to accommodate the Multicultural Victoria Bill operate smoothly and see legislation go through 2011 were introduced to the Parliament without appropriately, then let us have some appropriate warning. The government has every right to introduce consultation and cooperation on the way through. We this notice of motion into the Parliament; however, it are up for that dialogue; we are up for that arrangement. would have been appropriate, it would have helped the smooth operation of this Parliament and it would have Honourable members interjecting. been courteous of the government to give a bit of notice of its intentions to those across the chamber. Even Mr McIntosh interjected. 5 minutes notice would have been nice just to give a bit of a heads-up and say, ‘We’re proposing these changes. The SPEAKER — Order! I ask the Leader of the We’re going to put these up in a moment, and we just House to stop interjecting. wanted to let you know’. It is just a small courtesy, but Ms ALLAN — Unfortunately, though, it appears it is a way in which, when we have a Parliament — — from the behaviour of those opposite that that courtesy Ms Miller interjected. is not going to be extended. So be it. That is the government’s decision, just as it is the government’s The SPEAKER — Order! The member for decision to send the Treasurer to the ministerial council Bentleigh! The four members on the back bench are meeting. It appears that it has done that. The game is making a lot of noise. I ask them to desist. over. The fun is over, guys. Members opposite have got to get back to operating like a government. Ms ALLAN — It appears that the Leader of the House is confirming that his behaviour and the Mr WALSH (Minister for Agriculture and Food behaviour of the government is retribution for Security) — I rise to support the motion moved by the perceived sins that were committed against them in a Leader of the House on changes to sessional orders. previous lifetime. We are not into that. We want to see the smooth operation of the Parliament; that is why we An honourable member — Sensible. seek cooperation. Mr WALSH — Very sensible; and I congratulate Honourable members interjecting. the Leader of the House on the good job he is doing in managing the affairs of the house. Ms ALLAN — I hope that was not a rolling of the eyes, Speaker. It is interesting to follow the member for Bendigo East. While listening to the 20-minute contribution to the The SPEAKER — Order! The member is reflecting debate by the member I thought of the very old saying on the Chair, and I ask her to apologise. that if you have got nothing to say, you should just revert to personal abuse. All we have done is listen to An honourable member interjected. 20 minutes of criticism of the government of the day.

The SPEAKER — Order! The member knows Honourable members interjecting. what she is saying.

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 987

Mr WALSH — It was personal abuse; it was are sitting and they are allowing pairing so that their personalised around particular people. All I can say is treasurers can attend the discussion in Canberra. that opposition members, particularly the member for Bendigo East, are obviously such precious petals that The debate over the last two days about whether the they do not want to engage in the proper process. opposition will allow a pair for the Treasurer has been because opposition members are Labor Party first, The member for Bendigo East is very good at rewriting Labor Party second, Labor Party third and Victorians the history of the last 11 years. If we think back on how last. They do not care about Victorian families. They this chamber operated over that period, we can see that will stand condemned for their rhetoric over the last this motion by the Leader of House seeks to put in few days. This just reinforces the fact that Victorians place some sensible sessional orders to make sure the got it right last November when they voted for a change house runs in an organised and proper fashion. of government.

In her wide-ranging contribution to the debate the Mr HOLDING (Lyndhurst) — This debate is member for Bendigo East talked about issues that essentially about two things. Firstly, it is about a change occurred between 1999 and 2000 and the fact that the to the sessional orders. Members of the opposition then government believed it was a minority have, through the member for Bendigo East, made it government. I think anyone from country Victoria clear that we do not support one of the key changes would know that that government was never a minority being proposed by members of the government this government. They would recall that the three so-called afternoon. Secondly, it is something of a proxy debate Independents who were members of the house at that about the issue of pairs. The changes to the sessional stage were not independent. We also saw how they orders to facilitate tomorrow’s arrangements are really acted at the time they were in this Parliament. They about the government trying to prevent itself from were never Independents representing country Victoria; being exposed to what it perceives as some kind of they were creatures of the Labor Party. They proved jeopardy in relation to the arrangements around pairs. that with the way they voted all the time. It was very pleasing to see the last of the Independent members We heard the Leader of the House putting the view that leave this chamber at the 2010 election and to welcome somehow the position that has been adopted by the the new member for Gippsland East. opposition in relation to pairs is unprecedented and puts at risk the best interests of Victorian families. That is Those three Independent members never acted the line that was trundled out in question time and has independently in this house. They were effectively part been put forward by government members during this of the Labor Party for all the time they were here. The debate. Let us put to bed the farcical argument about member for Bendigo East was trying to rewrite history pairs that has been made by members of the in saying that the government between 1999 and 2000 government. The truth is there has been a longstanding was a minority government when it had the support of arrangement around pairs in the Legislative Council. In the three Labor Independents. the Legislative Council pairs are provided for, and they are granted for a range of reasons. It is the business of The changes that are being proposed by the Leader of the members in the other chamber — both opposition the House are about putting in place some sensible and government — when they provide those pairing operating rules. In particular the Treasurer can now arrangements, but they are provided often and there is represent us in Canberra. He can stand up and get a fair custom, form and practice in relation to the issue. go for Victorian families. In this chamber pairing is a totally different matter. An honourable member interjected. Over the entire 11 years that Labor was in government pairs were never provided for any ministerial council Mr WALSH — I know it is unruly to respond to meeting. No arrangement for pairs was granted by interjections, but I think the Treasurer will do a very members of the current government when they were in good job on Victoria’s behalf. I think we are sending a opposition in relation to ministers from the Bracks and very strong advocate to the ministerial council meeting then the Brumby governments who sought to attend on our behalf who will make sure we get a good ministerial council meetings. In fact no formal pairing outcome for Victorian families. arrangement has been consistently applied in this If you look at what the other states are doing, you see chamber since 1992. That is because members that the parliaments of Tasmania, Western Australia opposite, when they were in government during the and South Australia are allowing pairing. Their houses Kennett years, took the view that it did not suit their

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988 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 political interests to have pairing arrangements in place, We are being asked to support changes to sessional so there were no such arrangements. orders this afternoon. The change we do not support is made by paragraph (1)(b), which sets in stone the An honourable member interjected. interruption of business at 4.00 p.m. on any sitting day other than Tuesdays and Wednesdays. As the Leader of Mr HOLDING — They did not need them, as the the House has already outlined to the chamber, the Minister for Ports interjects. If you look in the pairs change is simply an expression in the sessional orders book, you will find that since 1992 there have been of the custom and practice of the last 11 years. Those almost no entries. There was an entry in 1993, and from were his words. That is the reason we do not support it. that time on the Kennett government refused to broach We simply say that if that custom and practice has been pairs. From 1999, when the government changed and a able to operate effectively over that time, it should minority government was put in place, there was not continue to do so. one instance in the next 11 years — in the Bracks years or in the Brumby years — when a pair was provided to We know what this is actually about — that is, giving a Labor minister to attend a ministerial council meeting. the government another blunt, crude and undemocratic instrument that it can use to stifle debate when the time Dr Napthine interjected. comes for the guillotine. We just do not support that The SPEAKER — Order! The Minister for Ports! proposition.

Mr HOLDING — That was the case when we were If it has been custom and practice — certainly during in a minority government position, when we had a large the years I have been a member of this chamber — majority after 2002 and when we had a smaller ordinarily for the question to be put at 4.00 p.m. on a majority after 2006. Thursday, then there is no reason that arrangement cannot continue with the sessional orders drafted the What this argument about pairs is really all about is way they are. When circumstances require a deviation demonstrated by the fact that the Treasurer will be from that, then it is fully within the competence, attending the ministerial council meeting in Canberra capacity and power of this house to be able to manage regardless of whether he gets a pair. It is a try-on from those situations when they arise. those opposite — an attempt to establish a precedent for pairs that has not existed in this chamber for the last This is all about the government being able to use its 18 years. We will simply not stump up to an numbers crudely and undemocratically when the time arrangement whereby ministers can skulk off at any comes to interrupt the business program at 4.00 p.m. on time, having sought a pair, whether it be to attend a a Thursday afternoon or any day other than a Tuesday ministerial council meeting or to attend a fundraiser for or a Wednesday, and members of the opposition just do the Higgins 500 Club, which would be of more not accept that proposition. If the government has been concern. We will not provide pairs in those sorts of able to work effectively on the back of custom and situations, and we are not willing to provide a precedent practice and within the confines of the existing standing that those opposite were not willing to provide over the orders and sessional orders, then it should be able to last 18 years. That is what this boils down to. continue into the future. Those opposite keep flinging across the chamber how difficult members of the If those opposite were really so passionate about pairs, opposition are making the functioning of this house. if they took the view that the interests of Victorians We simply make the point that our door is always open. desperately require a pairing arrangement in the If members of the government wish to sit down with Legislative Assembly, if they took the view that the opposition and have a sensible discussion about the parliamentary democracy could be enhanced and best way to manage the business of this house, our door asserted by such an arrangement, they would have is always open to have that discussion. supported it over the last 18 years, but they did not. We will not allow a pairing arrangement to be brought into Dr Napthine — Give us a pair! this chamber essentially through an act of bullying by Honourable members interjecting. those opposite. We will not sit still for that. We will not have a situation whereby ministers, instead of being The SPEAKER — Order! required to attend this chamber, are able to be sent off to the four winds for political or other campaigning. We Mr HOLDING — The member for South-West will not support that proposition. Coast interjects, ‘Give us a pair!’. Basically he is saying that we should give the government what it wants and then we will sit down and have a discussion about how

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 989 the government can use its numbers to bludgeon the the Leader of the Opposition in a very fair and opposition into giving the government whatever it reasonable fashion, and the Premier was refused. wants. We reject that proposition. Does anyone support the notion that a sensible, constructive, cooperative The Premier and the Leader of the House have made it dialogue can be entered into with a terrorist absolutely clear: they are trying to seek cooperation and smash-and-grab by those opposite taking the things the outcome that is in the best interests of Victoria and they want and then asking us for a discussion about Victorian families. Victoria has suffered a withdrawal how we can improve the forms and operations of the of $2.5 billion worth of GST revenue by the federal house in a way that would suit the government’s Labor government, the members of which have interests? Members of the opposition simply say to admitted the system they used to withdraw that funding government members that our door is open; we are is fundamentally flawed and needs to be changed. We willing to have a discussion about these matters, but need to have our Treasurer at the table in Canberra on there needs to be a bit of give and take. Those opposite Thursday, with the cooperation of the house — and need to be willing for that to happen. hopefully with the support of both sides of the house — fighting for Victoria. Members of the opposition recognise that the people spoke in November and that we do not have the I would have thought that members of the opposition numbers in this chamber, but the government also would have been prepared to stand up for Victoria. I needs to recognise that the smooth operation of this would have thought they would stand up for getting the chamber is best facilitated by a constructive and $2.5 billion back and for getting the best outcome for cooperative approach being taken by both sides. We Victorian families, but it is clear that, rather than taking stand ready to participate in that discussion. Members a cooperative approach, members of the opposition are of the government should put to one side their hubris taking a destructive approach. They have taken the following the election. They should step up to the plate same approach as they took in question time. Clearly and enter this discussion in a mature and sensible way. they are an antidemocratic rabble engaging in They say they are simply asking us to give them a pair antidemocratic behaviour that does not seek to allow because it is in the interests of all Victorians, when the ministers to answer questions but rather seeks to disrupt fact is that pairs have not been provided consistently in the smooth running of the house. this chamber for the last 18 years and never for a ministerial council meeting in the memory of any I have been in this house for 22 years. Interestingly I member in this place. have seen substantial changes to both standing orders and sessional orders. The member for Lyndhurst talked Mr Wynne interjected. about the 4 o’clock guillotine. That is only a relatively recent invention in this house — it was introduced The SPEAKER — Order! The member for firstly by the previous Labor government; it did not Richmond had better remember he is on two warnings. exist in the 1980s and 1990s — yet members of the opposition talk about it as though it has been the custom Mr HOLDING — I simply put the proposition that of this house for 150 years. That is absolute and utter this has got nothing to do with Victorian families. This rubbish. There have been consistent changes to is all about a smash-and-grab from those opposite, sessional orders and standing orders over the 22 years desperate to establish a precedent that we will not sit that I have been here and for the many decades prior to still for. that. Most of the changes to standing orders, like the one that has been put forward by the Leader of the Dr NAPTHINE (Minister for Ports) — The House, are — to echo the words of the member for previous speakers have talked about taking a Bendigo East — to provide for the smooth operation of cooperative approach. We in government would prefer this Parliament, including the operation of the 4 o’clock to take a cooperative approach, but it is a pity that rule on any other sitting day outlined in opposition members have decided to throw out the paragraph (1)(b) of this motion. window any semblance of a cooperative approach. When opposition members were approached in a The member for Lyndhurst also talked about the history sensible way by the Leader of the House with respect to of pairs. Again I think that a substantial rewriting or a pair for the Treasurer — it is in the best interests of interpretation of history is going on here. It is important Victoria and Victorian families for him to represent to know that between 1992 and 1999 there were no Victoria at the federal council of treasurers — he was pairs because there was no need for pairs. The refused. The Premier made another approach today to government of the day had a sufficient majority and did not need to seek pairs, so there was never a request for

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990 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 pairs. It is not as though the pairs were refused; they Victorian families, thus affecting our budget and our just were not requested. ability to deliver better services and infrastructure for all Victorians. Similarly, between 2002 and 2010 the Labor government had a sufficient majority and its members Let us not have any more of this humbug about trying never requested pairs. It is not as though there is a to rewrite the history of pairs. Pairs have been given in history of knocking back pairs; there is a history of no this house. They were given when we were in requests for pairs. That is what the history is. I was opposition between 1992 and 2002 in special Leader of the Opposition between 1999 and 2002, and circumstances. That is what this is about: these are to the best of my recollection I can only recall one special circumstances. In most other times in this house representation to me as Leader of the Opposition for pairs have not even been asked for. They have not been pairs, which was granted. Labor continues to try to refused; they have not even been asked for, mainly rewrite history when it comes to pairs in the Legislative because the government of the day had a sufficient Assembly. majority not to require a pair. Members of the opposition are continually trying to rewrite history. We There is provision for pairs in the customs and have heard today that in other jurisdictions pairs are traditions of this house. The provision of pairs is not given for treasurers to attend ministerial council automatic, but they should be available at times of meetings. The members of those parliaments recognise significance and importance, whether they be personal their primary duty to their state or territory and make issues to do with an individual member and their family sure their state or territory is represented by their or for a minister or a member to represent the interests treasurer at those ministerial council meetings. of Victoria and act in the best interests of Victoria. I suggest that on this occasion what we have is a clear Today in his response to the Premier the Leader of the example of where providing a pair for the Treasurer is Opposition said that the Legislative Council has a in the best interests of Victoria and Victorian families. history of giving pairs, including one for the previous Surely that is what we are all here for, or what we Treasurer, John Lenders, and suggested that if the should all be here for. Assistant Treasurer, Mr Gordon Rich-Phillips, wanted to go to the ministerial council meeting, it would We are elected as individual members of Parliament, consider giving him a pair. So this is absolute and utter irrespective of our political persuasion and irrespective tommyrot, humbug and political — — of the party we represent. I am elected first and foremost as the member for South-West Coast. The Mr McIntosh — Bastardry. member for Albert Park is elected first and foremost as the member for Albert Park, and his responsibility is to Dr NAPTHINE — I would not use that word. The represent the people of his electorate to the best of his opposition is playing political games in this house with ability. It does members of the opposition no credit regard to this issue of pairs. Let us not have any of that whatsoever when they put the interests of their party rubbish. Let us come back to what this sessional order and petty politics ahead of the interests of their is trying to achieve. individual constituents, individual families and all Victorians when they refuse a pair to allow the It is interesting that the member for Bendigo East has Treasurer to attend this important ministerial council said that the opposition supports many aspects of the meeting, where the Treasurer is needed to represent the proposed sessional order but that it has an issue with interests of all Victorians. paragraph 1(b). I put it to the opposition that sessional orders are the same as standing orders. Let us not forget Victorian families in Albert Park, Richmond, Derrimut that the standing orders were completely rewritten from and elsewhere right across the state need to be A to Z by the former Labor government. The idea that represented by the Treasurer of this state at that standing orders and sessional orders are set in concrete, ministerial council meeting. Whether or not the that they can never be changed and that they cannot be opposition likes it that the Treasurer happens to be a altered to best suit the interests of the house and the Liberal Party member of Parliament and a member of a interests of democracy and the people of Victoria is coalition government, he is the Treasurer of this state again further political humbug from the opposition. It is and he is fighting for the interests of all Victorians and just a political game. all Victorian families. There should be enormous support right across the chamber in agreeing that it is The opposition is playing games and trying to put the unfair, unreasonable and downright wrong that the interests of Labor ahead of the interests of Victorians federal government is taking $2.5 billion from

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 991 and Victorian families. It is a disgrace. I support the you get’ and that it would be open to a new era of adoption of this sessional order. transparency, accountability and no spin. And yet less than 150 days into its first term we now see the Mr FOLEY (Albert Park) — I thank the Minister government’s attempts, bit by bit, to roll back ways of for Ports for acknowledging that it is in the interests of ensuring accountability. We will see more attempts of the families and the people of Albert Park that I this in some of the bills that are going to make their continue to represent them in this place — just as I am way before the house, but I will not forecast debate on sure it is the job of the Minister for Ports to represent, those bills. I will restrict my comments to the issue of amongst other things, the interests of his constituents — the proposed sessional order before us. and I will do so to the best of my abilities. The proposed sessional order, as reflected in the However, what the people of Albert Park also changes it would make to standing order 32(1)(b), will expect — and there is a high density of constitutional provide that the guillotine can be applied at any time on lawyers per square metre in my electorate who would any other sitting day. In normal circumstances, if there be particularly keen about this — is that we, as a are such things, the Thursday afternoon protocol is to Parliament, protect, enhance and develop the finest allow for members, particularly country and regional aspects of the Westminster system and that we use the members, to return to their communities in time to elements of this place, as reflected in the sessional and carry out business in their electorates on the Friday. standing orders, in a way that holds the executive to That is all well and good, but there have been, and will account. That is the role of the opposition. For the be again, times in which the debate has been on Leader of the House, on behalf of the government, to substantial issues of important public policy, on holding propose a new sessional order that particularly affects the government to account or on a range of important standing order 32(1)(b) — the standing order that issues. There have been many important issues debated relates to the 4.00 p.m. cut-off on any sitting day other in this Parliament, and there will be in the future. than a Tuesday or Wednesday — appears to be a case of the government trying to neuter the ability of the What we are seeing is a curtailing of the opportunities opposition to hold the executive to account. for this Parliament to hold the government to account. It will be a dark day for the democratic forms which the This debate has rolled on through all sorts of topics. I member for South-West Coast so eloquently cannot comment on what happened in this place championed a few moments ago if he then sticks his 22 years ago. I have been a keen student of some of hand up for this change to the sessional orders, because those issues, and I can accept that sessional and that will see the very values that he was espousing put standing orders are always evolving. What is not an behind the opportunistic and political needs of the evolving issue is the responsibility of the opposition, conservative Liberal-Nationals coalition. We will see whoever it might be at any particular point of time, to the restriction of the ability provided by the sessional maintain the finest traditions of the Westminster system orders to hold the government to account on whatever and hold the government to account. the important public policy issue of the day is. We will see the use of the majority against the interests of I believe there is a strong argument in this instance to Victorians. We will see the majority numbers in this suggest that this is more than just the ‘Wells clause’ for place used to roll back areas of accountability and roll getting the Treasurer to the ministerial conference, back the ability of the Parliament to hold the which I understand he is attending. This may be an government to account. This cannot be good for the issue of the government trying to manufacture an very people the Minister for Ports quite eloquently argument that it will somehow lose control of the purported in his earlier contribution to represent. operations of the Parliament should this not be granted. However, the fact is that the government will still be The people of Albert Park, the people of South-West able to maintain its majority on the floor of the house. Coast and the people of all the electoral districts that we have the privilege to represent in this place expect This clause is really about the ways in which this many things from us. The minimum they expect from government operates. This is a government that has us, as the minister was pointing out, is to represent their taken only a few months to change the position it held direct interests, but they also expect us to represent the when it was in opposition of high indignation about the tradition of accountability and to maintain the systems forms of the house and the need to hold the government of government and the forms of this Parliament in to account. Straight after the election — an election in holding the government to account. What this motion which it was quite successful — the government began does, bit by bit, is chip away at that. We are seeing, and to give form to its promises that ‘what you see is what I suspect will see again in the near future in one of the

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992 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 bills that has been forecast in this place, an attempt by arrangements that have operated in both the 55th and this government to roll back those traditions. 56th parliaments, arrangements that operated very much by agreement and through cooperation between It will be a sad day for the democratic forms of this the government and the opposition. That allowed those place if we do not stand up and oppose this proposition, arrangements to work, and they did work. and I ask the Leader of the House and the Minister for Ports to reconsider their standover tactics and their Those days of agreement and cooperation have reliance on their majority in this house. I ask them to unfortunately evaporated. We have an opposition that reconsider whether proposed paragraph (1)(b) of the will seize on every point, every opportunity and every motion is necessary in the total scheme of things in possible way to divert the energies of the house from trying to apply a better form of the running of the the purposes for which we are here. We have an ALP house. opposition that will put, at every opportunity, politics first and Victorian families a very distant second. We have already heard from the manager of opposition business. There is material in this proposal that we In recent days we had the debate on the Residential think is sensible and enhances the smooth operation of Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) Bill 2011. An the Legislative Assembly, and we support that material, opposition member called a frivolous point of order, but not the material that is tied essentially to the ‘Wells was turned down and immediately sought to have a clause’ and that makes sure this change is all about quorum called. When the count was done we were only feeding the government’s media cycle and feeding the one member short of a quorum, but the call proceeded. government’s spin on the story of the week, which The lack of quorum would not have been any hindrance started on Saturday and has continued every day since. to the business of the house; the quorum was called When the forms of this house and the ability of the simply to disrupt business. opposition and the Parliament to hold the executive to account take a secondary position to the spin cycle of That is what we are dealing with at this moment. Every this government — this supposedly spin-free opportunity to interrupt business is taken. We have seen government that we were promised only a few months stunts, we have seen point-scoring, we have seen ago — it is a very sad day, and we would urge the filibusters, we have seen grandstanding, we have seen Leader of the House and those opposite to use this procedural devices and we have seen the manipulation opportunity to stand back and take on board the broader of any rule the opposition can come up with to disrupt interests of the Parliament and of holding the executive and thwart the business of the house and the business of to account. We would urge them to make sure that only the people of Victoria. That is what we are dealing with those parts of this proposal to change the standing in this case. It is all calculated to disrupt the Parliament orders that we support go forward and that they refrain and to disrupt proper debate. Indeed the opposition from pressing the issue of sessional order 8(1)(b) as seems to have trouble — despite the protestations of the currently proposed. member for Lyndhurst — with the concept that in fact it is not the government any more. Mr MORRIS (Mornington) — How the worm has turned in the few short months since November. Before The changes proposed by the Leader of the House I I start on the general principle of the motion I want to believe are necessary to ensure that the business of the speak briefly on the proposition that has been put house can proceed in an orderly fashion. Cooperation is forward in the recent comments of the member for certainly preferable. If we could, we would certainly Albert Park and the earlier comments of the member work cooperatively, but cooperation requires two sides, for Bendigo East expressing concern about proposed and when one side will not participate you cannot paragraph 8(1)(b). I refer to the current standing orders arrange affairs on a cooperative basis. The people of of the House of Representatives, which identify very Victoria expect us to work together to discharge their clearly in standing order 29 that the adjournment will business and not to use procedural devices in order to be proposed in that house at 9.30 p.m. on Monday, derail a program put before us. The opposition 9.30 p.m. on Tuesday, 7.00 p.m. on Wednesday and unfortunately insists on attempting to derail the 4.30 p.m. on Thursday. It is nothing new to have in program. It has consequently become necessary to place an identified time for the adjournment. move these proposed variations to the sessional orders. It would be best to do it by agreement, as I have said. In To return to the principle of the motion, what is this case we cannot. I think the Leader of the House has proposed with this motion is simply a new sessional in fact been entirely reasonable with the changes he has order to replace standing order 32 for the duration of proposed because they simply codify the arrangements the session. In effect what it does is codify the that have been in place for two parliamentary terms. If

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 993 we were really interested in gagging debate, as has been The SPEAKER — Order! Instead of going down suggested by some, I am sure there would be far more the old memory lane I ask the member to return to the effective ways of doing it. The changes that are debate on the motion before the house. proposed are entirely reasonable, and I commend the motion. Mr WYNNE — It is very germane, Speaker, to this particular matter that is before us — that is, to ensure Mr WYNNE (Richmond) — What a delight to be that we have an orderly flow of legislation into the with you, Speaker, as always, and to have followed the house. member for Albert Park, who I must say gave an excellent presentation of the opposition’s position in a Mr Hodgett interjected. very thorough, thoughtful and measured way. The member for Bendigo East in her usual erudite fashion Mr WYNNE — What a dismal failure you have has prosecuted the case on behalf of the opposition — been! What a dismal failure! that is, that we largely have no opposition to the The issue here, as we have seen, is the use of sessional proposed changes to sessional orders as detailed by the orders. The Leader of the House is an interesting Leader of the House. In fact we do not oppose them, character, because what he does is come in here and with the exception of proposed sessional huff and puff and blow and carry on, because that is the order 8(1)(b) — that is, of course, the guillotine. job that he has, but when he gets outside of the chamber By way of some introductory comments I want to take he says, ‘Look, that was all in the chamber, you know; up some remarks made by the member for Mornington, that’s all part of the rough and tumble. We actually who I regard as a measured person, by and large, in want to have a cooperative arrangement with you’. terms of his general contributions here in the house. I The SPEAKER — Order! I ask the member to must say, though, that it ill behoves the member for come back to the debate. Mornington to suggest that opposition members are simply here to manipulate the various opportunities that Mr WYNNE — He says, ‘We actually want to have are provided to us as members of Parliament and to a cooperative arrangement with you in the orderly frustrate the government in its endeavours. I would running of the house.’ Is that not going a treat, Speaker? submit to you, Speaker, that there is nothing further Within the broader rubric this week of saying, ‘We from the truth. Our leader has indicated on a number of need the Treasurer to go to Canberra to represent the occasions — and I say it again to the member for interests of Victoria in this very important Mornington — that we understand very clearly the will Treasurer’s — — of the people. The coalition is the government. We understand that. Those opposite are the government. Mr Hodgett interjected.

I have to say that the orderly transmission of legislation The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Kilsyth! through the Parliament, through the cabinet secretary — there he is at the table, the cabinet Mr WYNNE — Go back to being the cabinet secretary — and the Leader of the House leaves a lot to secretary and get on with the job, will you? He is out of be desired. his place and he is out of order; you know that. Come on, Speaker. The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Richmond will address his comments through me. The SPEAKER — Order! I trust that the member is not suggesting I am not doing my job. Mr WYNNE — I am sorry, Speaker, I was just — — Mr WYNNE — Not at all, Speaker; you are a delight to be with. The SPEAKER — Order! I know what the member was doing. I ask him to speak through me. The SPEAKER — Order! I thank the member.

Mr WYNNE — I was just momentarily distracted Mr WYNNE — Just a delight; you know that. and harking back to the old days when in fact I had the The SPEAKER — Order! I ask the member to honour of being the cabinet secretary. One of the return to the debate on the motion before the house. It is crucial jobs — — extremely entertaining.

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Mr WYNNE — We have seen here that the mistaken. This is not an opportunity. This is a test of the government has had to curtail debate. It has had to maturity of this government, but I do not think there is curtail debate on a number of bills here today — — much hope for this fellow. It is a test of the leadership of this government, of whether it is prepared to say, An honourable member — It never ever happened ‘Right. This is over. Let us actually try to find some to you? common ground and have some respect for the institution of this Parliament and for the fact that the Mr WYNNE — We never had to curtail debate by a opposition was elected to have the interests and voices full day. This is a stunt that the government has pulled of its constituents heard in this Parliament’. here, because the government knows full well that it will have the numbers in the house tomorrow. That is a We will not be fettered by this sort of nonsense and this simple fact, which will not be affected by whether the proposition to curtail debate in this Parliament, to use Treasurer is here or not here. The Leader of the House the guillotine at will and to close down debate as it has knows that the government has the numbers in the been closed down. We are to have two days of debate house, so it should not try to wrap this argument up in simply because the government needs to maintain this some nonsense and rhetoric and say, ‘We’re the only ridiculous proposition that it does not want to send its ones who stand up for Victoria, and we’re the only ones Treasurer to Canberra for what is an important meeting prepared to go in and fight for the interests of because it has not been provided with a pair when it is Victorians’. What a load of nonsense. simply a statement of fact that it will have the numbers on the floor of this chamber tomorrow. Shame on the The question of pairs has already been very ably Leader of the House. canvassed by a number of speakers. Last night we canvassed the matter of pairs when in fact pairs have Mr McINTOSH (Minister for Corrections) — I will only been given twice in the last 20-odd years and at briefly sum up the debate. I thank all members for their least on one of those occasions, as we know, that was contributions. I started this process by explaining the for particularly tragic circumstances surrounding one of mechanics of what was being achieved. As I indicated our members. We ought to cut to the chase here. This is at the very outset the 4.00 p.m. adjournment is about the orderly conduct of business in this house. To something that has been an effective and standard have orderly conduct in the business of this house you practice of this chamber certainly for the 11 years that I have to reach across the table and have some form of have been in this place. Once we get to the adjournment cooperative arrangement, respect for those on the other there is a rapid exiting of this place, and it seems that side of the chamber and some form of practice is being institutionalised in these sessional understanding — — orders.

Honourable members interjecting. I reiterate the words of the member for South-West Coast, the Minister for Ports. He has been a senior The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the House minister, a Leader of the Opposition and a senior is being very disruptive! shadow minister for over 20 years in this place, and he Mr WYNNE — We are all elected to be here in this indicates that between 1992 and 1999 there were no Parliament. We all have a right to be heard in this pairs because there was no need for them. My Parliament. We all have a right to represent the interests recollection is that on many occasions ministers of our constituencies in this Parliament — and indeed it attended to official duties, that there was a constant is quite improper for the Leader of the House to be requirement for ministers to attend to those duties and moving sessional orders, as we are seeing today, that that once every couple of sitting weeks at question time fundamentally seek to curtail the opportunity of both a minister would be away attending some official sides of the house to reflect the views of their function representing the state of Victoria. constituencies in this great legislature. This is not just about the pairing arrangement. The The government will be here for four years. The Leader pairing arrangement has been something of profound of the House seems to think this is a good start to concern and commentary in this debate. The reality is having a cooperative arrangement with the opposition. that it would be an appropriate thing to provide the pair; All he does is deride and drag down members in his it is consistent with the forms of this house that when a typical way that is fuelled by hubris and arrogance. If pair has been sought it has been provided. Likewise in he thinks that his outrageous, ridiculous, petulant and the Legislative Council, when a pair has been sought it immature behaviour is going to get him a cooperative has been provided. The government has sought a pair arrangement with our side of the house, he is sadly reasonably and responsibly. I originally did this myself.

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I wrote to the manager of opposition business Andrews, Mr Hutchins, Ms requesting it. That request was refused. Again today the Barker, Ms Kairouz, Ms Beattie, Ms Knight, Ms Premier sought from the opposition a bipartisan, Brooks, Mr Languiller, Mr reasonable and rational response to its request that was Campbell, Ms Lim, Mr above politics and in the interests of Victoria to provide Carbines, Mr McGuire, Mr a pair to allow the Treasurer to go to Canberra. It was a D’Ambrosio, Ms Madden, Mr Donnellan, Mr Merlino, Mr reasonable and responsible request. Duncan, Ms Nardella, Mr Edwards, Ms Neville, Ms The Minister for Ports has said that in the 20 years he Eren, Mr Noonan, Mr has been in this place, having seen opposition and on Foley, Mr Pallas, Mr other occasions government, this is the first time he can Garrett, Ms Pandazopoulos, Mr think of that a pair has been refused in this chamber. Graley, Ms Perera, Mr Green, Ms Pike, Ms That is deeply regrettable, because a pair ensures that Halfpenny, Ms Richardson, Ms good government is continued and that the government Helper, Mr Scott, Mr on behalf of all Victorians and on behalf of all 88 lower Hennessy, Ms Thomson, Ms house seats can properly represent all Victorians in Herbert, Mr Trezise, Mr Canberra at the treasurers meeting. Holding, Mr Wynne, Mr Howard, Mr I understand that when similar requests were made in Motion agreed to. other parliaments that are sitting this week to enable their treasurers to attend the ministerial council in Canberra — that is, in Western Australia, South RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES AMENDMENT Australia and Tasmania — pairs were provided. (PUBLIC HOUSING) BILL 2011

For some reason when a pair was requested this time, it Second reading was denied. However, the utility of the 4.00 p.m. adjournment has been a common practice in this place, Debate resumed from 5 April; motion of and certainly the amendment to provide for the Mr DELAHUNTY (Minister for Sport and 10.00 p.m. adjournment will properly reflect the Recreation). practices and procedures that have been in operation since I have been in this chamber. Mr CARBINES (Ivanhoe) — I am pleased to rise to continue my contribution on the Residential House divided on motion: Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) Bill 2011. In relation to indictable offences power will be given to Ayes, 44 the director of housing to evict people from their Angus, Mr Mulder, Mr properties. In the broader context, some of these matters Asher, Ms Napthine, Dr go to the amenity of local residents in relation to where Baillieu, Mr Newton-Brown, Mr they live and providing them with a safe environment. Battin, Mr Northe, Mr Bauer, Mrs O’Brien, Mr In terms of the people in public housing in my Blackwood, Mr Powell, Mrs electorate of Ivanhoe, particularly in West Heidelberg, Bull, Mr Ryall, Ms part of that is done through a range of projects that we Burgess, Mr Ryan, Mr initiated when we were in government, such as Clark, Mr Shaw, Mr Crisp, Mr Smith, Mr R. neighbourhood renewal and the provision of advocacy Delahunty, Mr Southwick, Mr for people in public housing. We have given them a Dixon, Mr Sykes, Dr stronger voice and a say in their own advocacy and Fyffe, Mrs Thompson, Mr representation. It is about holding the Office of Gidley, Mr Tilley, Mr Housing, the Department of Human Services and local Hodgett, Mr Victoria, Mrs Katos, Mr Wakeling, Mr government to account and allowing people to have a Kotsiras, Mr Walsh, Mr say fundamentally about the way they live their lives McCurdy, Mr Watt, Mr and about ensuring that they are treated with respect McIntosh, Mr Weller, Mr and dignity. McLeish, Ms Wells, Mr Miller, Ms Wooldridge, Ms What the people of the Ivanhoe electorate — Morris, Mr Wreford, Ms particularly the people of West Heidelberg, where I live Noes, 43 and where there is a large public housing Allan, Ms Hulls, Mr community — have raised with me about this

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996 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 legislation is the fact that often public housing is not advocacy and through discussion around improving suitable for their purposes, either because of the size of local facilities such as those at Malahang Reserve, as their families or because the housing has not been well as by holding local fetes and festivals that promote maintained. These are the sorts of issues that people Housing Week and their issues and holding local raise with me constantly in the Ivanhoe electorate. barbecues in the community. They have had barbecues These are the sorts of issues that the Labor government at the Bell Bardia estate and the Tarakan estate. We dealt with to ensure that people in public housing were want people to be able to put forward their issues and treated with respect and dignity. That is what Labor talk about what is important to them to ensure that the governments want to ensure. Office of Housing, the Department of Human Services and the government are listening and responding to When the government talks about public housing it their issues on public housing matters. looks for easy and cheap headlines, but we do not hear anything about investment in public housing or about In relation to this matter, ultimately the government has increasing the maintenance budget for public housing. a responsibility to house all vulnerable Victorians, We do not hear anything about building public housing including all those who may end up getting charged on on the vacant blocks in West Heidelberg. The an indictable offence, but what about their families and government wants to pay consultants to draw up fancy the homes in which they live that are public housing? plans, but when it comes to improving the amenity for Who is looking out for them, who is providing them people in public housing it says nothing about investing with confidence that the government and the people of in public housing itself. It does not want to talk about Victoria want them taken care of, looked out for and investing in building public housing on vacant blocks in advocated for? They will continue to get advocacy in West Heidelberg owned by the Office of Housing for West Heidelberg, they will continue to get it in Ivanhoe which the director of housing is responsible when and they will continue to get it on this side of the house, people are looking for somewhere to live and are but we will wait for the next budget to see what is expecting the government to provide them with provided by this government to invest in public housing opportunities. Those blocks are sitting there vacant rather than shutting it down and kicking people out. because this government will not provide the That is what we want to see done by this government, investment for more public housing to be built. but there is nothing but silence and a cheap headline. Housing is what we want to see in West Heidelberg and On the subject of investing in public housing and the Ivanhoe electorate. providing opportunities for constituents in my electorate to have somewhere to live and a roof over Debate adjourned on motion of Mr McINTOSH their head, I am pleased to talk about some of the (Minister for Corrections). homes and facilities that have been built for people who live in West Heidelberg. I will talk about some of those Debate adjourned until later this day. out in the Bellfield — —

Mr Shaw — On a point of order, Speaker, the bill is MULTICULTURAL VICTORIA BILL 2011 not about investment in public housing; the bill is specifically about the trafficking of drugs. Second reading

An honourable member interjected. Debate resumed from 24 March; motion of Mr KOTSIRAS (Minister for Multicultural Affairs Mr Shaw — The point of order is that the member and Citizenship). is not speaking on the bill. I ask you, Speaker, to instruct the member to speak on the bill and not about Mr ANDREWS (Leader of the Opposition) — I am investment in public housing. pleased to make a contribution to the debate on this important bill, the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. In The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point my capacity as shadow minister for multicultural affairs of order. I ask the member to return to debating the bill I have a special interest in the bill, and I indicate from before the house. the outset that the Labor opposition will not oppose this bill. Mr CARBINES — This bill goes to the heart of what the residents of West Heidelberg say to me. They I take this opportunity to talk about the value of our are keen to improve the amenity of their multicultural community and the value of neighbourhood. They work hard to do that through multiculturalism across Victoria. I have said many projects such as neighbourhood renewal, through their times that I am very privileged to have served for a

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 997 brief time as Minister assisting the Premier on ago when I was at primary school in country Victoria. Multicultural Affairs when Steve Bracks was the The experience is very different; we have come a long Premier and was also the Minister for Multicultural way, and we have changed. The differences that Affairs. It was an enjoyable experience and a real sometimes hijack debate, sometimes stain people’s honour for me to serve in that portfolio. I was very reason or colour their view appallingly are seemingly pleased to be able to assume the responsibilities as the not even registered by so many today because they are shadow minister for multicultural affairs after the just part of the lived experience; it is just what life is all change in government last year. about. The fact that our diversity is so beautifully grounded in our community is where our harmony and Many times I have said in this place and in other public strength come from. forums that our cultural diversity, our multiculturalism and the fact that we are a multicultural and multifaith This bill and all its provisions, which I will come to in a community are one of our greatest assets, one of our moment, is the government delivering on an election greatest strengths. That is what sets us apart from so commitment it made last year. It is appropriate that we many other parts of the world. It is also what makes us make sure we have the best and most contemporary an edgy, interesting and fundamentally great place to framework. It is also obviously important and live. We always have to make sure that we invest in and appropriate that the government deliver on the promises nurture that cultural diversity and multiculturalism, and it has made. that we value it in everything we do and say. We also need to ensure that we never take that diversity, and all I have referred to diversity not just in metropolitan the good that it brings, for granted. Melbourne but also in communities right across the state — proudly right across rural and regional Victoria. As members would know, over the years many Some of the best examples of our cultural diversity and different communities, different families and different the contribution of both the celebration and sharing people have come from right across the globe, some cultural heritage are in rural and regional areas. As a travelling for a new life in relatively peaceful and calm former minister who has visited places such as circumstances, many travelling as refugees, being Shepparton, Warrnambool, Bendigo, Ballarat and victims of torture and trauma, victims from much less Wangaratta, my home town, as well as other parts of settled, less civilised circumstances than those we north-eastern Victoria, and having visited ethnic sometimes take for granted here in Victoria. They have communities through organisations such as Diversitat made their way to build a new life for themselves and in the Barwon region, I know that so many of our rural their families in Melbourne, in our regional centres and communities do this very well. in many rural places within our great state. When we talk about these numbers and quote the The contribution of so many of those waves of statistics which indicate that 40 per cent of Victorians migrants, families and communities to our economic were either born overseas or have at least one parent prosperity, our cultural life and the diversity that is such who was born overseas, that we as a community come a key strength is very difficult to estimate. So huge, from 200 different countries of origin, that we speak comprehensive and important have those contributions more than 230 languages and dialects and that we been that they are very challenging to quantify. What follow more than 120 faiths, ‘we’ means every we know without a shadow of doubt is that those Victorian — that is, all Victorians from all parts of contributions have been manifestly important to Victoria. Multiculturalism is not just in Melbourne’s building a modern, respectful Victoria that is a suburbs and not just in the centre of our capital city; it is powerhouse, if you like, both in economic activity and found across the entire state. That is a significant point, in the generation of ideas, innovation and reform. The and I know it is one that is not lost on the minister nor, I contribution from our cultural and religious diversity is hope, on the government. central to those strengths in so many different ways. These features have made us the unique, vibrant, I do not want to single out any particular group; there interesting and dynamic place we are today. Since are many groups. We know that in our own local coming back to this portfolio as a shadow minister with communities and in communities right across the state the change of government, I have over the last few just how important that contribution is almost every months had the great pleasure and privilege of day. I have said many times when I have visited schools attending a number of functions. These have been really in my local community or when I have visited my own important functions not only for the specific children’s school that the lived experience for them is communities involved in organising them but also very different from what I enjoyed only about 30 years because they have been great examples of celebrating

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998 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 and sharing cultural diversity and cultural heritage and Through the Cultural Precincts and Community practice. They are important within a community in Infrastructure Fund $12 million was provided to ensure order to pass down that cultural heritage to the next that our key cultural precincts remain suitable and generation but, as significant as that is, they are almost available to facilitate the celebration of our more important in that they enable the broader multiculturalism. These are also important centres of community to share in the culture that all those different activity, and they tell the story of migration and groups have brought to Victoria. settlement patterns over a long period of time. They include the Eaton Mall in Oakleigh, the Little Saigon There has been the Greek national day at the shrine; the arch in Richmond and the new Hindu cultural and Antipodes Festival in Lonsdale Street, where I was education centre at the Carrum Downs temple. I have pleased to join in and share the stage with the minister; had the pleasure of seeing that building site and visiting the Afghan new year celebrations at the Springvale that magnificent temple on many occasions, and it is a town hall; the Chinese New Year celebrations in credit to everybody involved. Chinatown, which again I attended with the minister, the Premier and others; a number of different functions We also supported the enhancement of Melbourne’s celebrating the Hindu community’s holy festival of iconic cultural precincts. Most members are aware of colours; and many other examples. I have been pleased work that has taken place on Lygon Street, Little and really proud to be able to attend many of these Bourke Street and Lonsdale Street. Substantial financial functions in my capacity as Leader of the Opposition commitments were made to those precincts which and shadow minister for multicultural affairs. Each allowed them to become the true cultural icons we occasion has served as an important reminder — and always knew they were. That funding was about we all sometimes need such a reminder — of the helping those areas as physical spaces to facilitate the brilliance of that diversity and its centrality and best celebration of the cultural diversity that is importance to our state. absolutely synonymous with those three locations.

Perhaps the highlight of those events was the Premier’s We set up the 24-hour International Student Care gala dinner at Crown Casino, which was held as part of Service, a first in Australia and a service that became a Cultural Diversity Week. I made the point then, and I very important source of practical support for students. will make it again now, that we do this better than so It was one of the many different settlement services many other parts of Australia and the world principally where we either partnered with another organisation or because we do not just tolerate our cultural diversity, were the key and central funder. We are very proud to we celebrate it. There is a real, meaningful pride, not have done that. just in word but in deed and in belief. We are genuinely proud to be what we have become — a fundamentally From a personal point of view, both when I was diverse state, one built on respect and on Parliamentary Secretary for Health and later when I acknowledging the contributions that so many was Minister for Health I was very pleased to be able to communities within the broader Victorian community work with Bronwyn Pike, the member for Melbourne, make on a daily basis. on rolling out refugee health nurses in a number of different locations across the state. This again was When Labor was in government it was pleased and targeted support for the most vulnerable — that is, proud to support Victoria’s cultural diversity. Before I people who had come to Australia to build a new life return to the provisions of the bill I will just make a with, it is fair to say, a fair bit of primary health couple of points about our record and the various catch-up to be done, having left refugee camps where initiatives and policies we pursued in government. For they may well have lived for very long periods of time, Labor members they are a source of great pride, and for often with real and manifest mental health issues and multicultural communities across the state the practical often with physical health issues. The refugee health and meaningful support we provided to so many groups nurse program is something that I think has benefited was a source of real progress and achievement. In our many hundreds, indeed thousands, of newly arrived last year in government we provided $5.6 million to refugees and humanitarian settlers. It is a program of around 2200 multicultural groups, including which we are very proud. The refugee communities in 700 seniors groups, right across the state. That is a Brimbank, Dandenong, Hume, Maribyrnong, Moonee sevenfold increase in funding during our term in office, Valley, Melbourne, Darebin, Shepparton, Warrnambool and again we are abundantly proud to have been able to and Ballarat, almost all of which I think I had the provide that practical support to so many groups in so honour of visiting to celebrate the rollout of the refugee many different communities in a consistent way, each health nurse program, are very strong supporters of the and every year.

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 999 program, and we should acknowledge the great work legislative framework are re-enacted. However, there the nurses do in providing those services. are four key differences, and I will briefly go to those.

Of course we supported more than 200 community The bill provides for the restructure of the Victorian language schools across the state that teach about Multicultural Commission (VMC). Clause 8 affords an 50 different languages to over 34 000 students on a additional function to the commission, which will be regular basis. Those key government investments are able to research, report and advise the minister on central to making those programs possible. Obviously systemic community issues. We think that is important. we introduced a range of reforms and provided strong There will be a range of implementation challenges — financial support for interpreting and translating what type of research will there be; how well supported services for government agencies, and we made a will the commission be to do that work? — but we strong commitment — indeed more than think that is a broadening of the commission’s role. We $50 million — to the teaching of languages other than have no fundamental problem with that, and we wish it English and similar programs in primary and secondary well in that important function. schools. Clause 12 details the members of the commission, and Can I say as well that it is not just about resources; it is there is some change to the composition of the VMC. also about making sure you have a legislative The number of commissioners remains at 12, but the framework that facilitates, promotes and is clear about bill introduces two new requirements in terms of the what the community’s expectations are and what the appointment of members. There are two new categories standards are that we set for ourselves. To that end we of member, if you like, for the commission. One are very proud to have properly developed and put member at least must be a youth representative — that through this Parliament laws like the Racial and is, between 18 and 24 years of age. I think that is a Religious Tolerance Act 2001 and the Charter of worthy change to make. I am not sure what the actual Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006. These experience would be over the life of the VMC in its are all about making sure that no Victorian is in any different forms, but again it is important that we always doubt about the fact that across the community we promote the broadest cross-section of voices, and support and honour, revere and value the contribution young adults today who are active in local community that our multicultural and multifaith communities have affairs need to carry much of the workload as we go made, currently make and will certainly make in the forward in the celebration of cultural heritage. I think it future. is only appropriate that at least one younger person is there to be a voice for younger people involved in the There is no room for intolerance, there is no room for celebration of our cultural diversity. prejudice and there is no room anywhere in our state for people to lack the fundamental respect that is such a As I understand it, a further member must be a selling point and such a source of pride for us in a representative of the Ethnic Communities Council of broader sense. We have to be consistent about that. We Victoria. Again over many years and under many have to make sure that we support our cultural diversity different leaders I think the council has done a fantastic so it can thrive, that we value our cultural diversity so it job in supporting governments of different political can thrive and that we are always a loud and consistent persuasions and groups of all different sorts of voice speaking out against those who are less charitable perspective in the celebration of the diversity that is so and those who for some unknown reason cannot see the important to all of us. I want to take this opportunity to inherent value of our multicultural and multifaith congratulate the ECCV for the great work it does. I community. Being loud and consistent against that sort know Sam Afra, who is the chairman, very well. He of behaviour is a hallmark of our time in office; we are leads that organisation extremely well, but he is one of abundantly proud of that, and we will continue that many people who have done great service at the ECCV role, because I and the team I lead understand how over a long period. important those messages are. Part 4 sets up eight regional advisory councils across I now turn to the key features of the bill. As I said, we each of the whole-of-government regions. There will be will not oppose the bill; it is reflective of the five country and three metropolitan councils. Each will commitments that the then opposition made, and we be chaired by a member of the commission proper, and think it is important that the government delivers on its each will include in its ordinary membership volunteers election commitments. Although the bill repeals the drawn from the relevant region. The bill provides that current act, many of the provisions of the current the councils will offer advice to the commission on

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1000 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 matters relating to its function, obviously with the minister if he might perhaps give us some comfort unique perspective of the local community. around that at a later stage. But I am unaware of any wholesale consultation or substantial consultation to There are also new reporting provisions requiring heads make sure communities across the state put their view of government departments to ensure that every on this bill or on the broader policy positions that reasonable effort is made to assist the commission underpin it. when it is preparing a report. Again, there is nothing wrong with that; we think that is appropriate in terms of I am not for a moment suggesting the government was making sure the best policy approach is taken. not up-front about these matters, at least in broad terms, at the election, but in terms of multicultural I have a couple of issues and concerns I wish to raise. I communities and the community more broadly, the am sure the minister will be able to deal with these views of groups are unknown to us because I do not either in his summing up or when the bill is between the necessarily think there has been broad consultation. If I houses. Whilst many of the new provisions are routine, am wrong in that, I will be more than happy to concede some of the administrative changes initiated by the the point. But if consultation has been undertaken, I government are somewhat concerning, particularly the expect that it would have been perhaps of a targeted government’s decision to take away from the nature and would not necessarily have been a public commission many of its policy and administrative process. Again, I seek some clarification from the functions. Going back some years and after a very long minister on that front. and intensive consultation process we made a change — and I will come back to that issue in a In terms of the transition arrangements, obviously the moment — to merge the old Victorian Office of government has a majority in both houses and we know Multicultural Affairs and the VMC so we had one voice this bill will become law. We are going to move from across government with administration, policy and one set of arrangements to a new set of arrangements. advocacy functions under the one roof. That was an There is some doubt, some confusion and some approach we took. We saw that as a sensible, efficient uncertainty about the transition arrangements. Will and effective way of making sure that we got the best there be a period where there is no institutional possible whole-of-government advice and delivered the framework, if you like, or will the government through best possible outcomes. the appointment process, through the Governor in Council and through the proclamation of this bill as an The new government has a different view, and it is act ensure that there is a seamless transition from one entitled to have that view; it took it to the Victorian arrangement to the next? This may seem to be a community. But I would say to the minister — and I pedantic point, but it is important. Will there be am sure he has picked up on this because he moves continuity? We know that the needs of communities around the sector very regularly — that there are some and the value of multiculturalism are continuous; we all concerns and there is some uncertainty. The want to see and make sure that there will be a smooth combination of these changes and the different transition from one arrangement to a new arrangement. functions for the two bodies, and also changes in terms I seek some clarification from the minister on that point of leadership made recently at the commission, have I as well. think caused some concern for a number of groups. No doubt the minister will be able to provide us with some A number of these matters were raised with the acting assurances in relation to these matters, as I said, either chair of the Victorian Multicultural Commission, in his summing up or when the bill is between the Hakan Akyol, and representatives of the minister’s houses. office, and I thank the minister for the courtesy of the briefing. I also take this opportunity to thank Mr Akyol On the issue of consultation, as I have said many times for his advocacy and leadership at the VMC, both now today and over the years, our diversity is precious and as acting chair and previously. I was very pleased to important. Consultation and making sure that the work with Mr Akyol in a previous role. He is a diverse range of voices within our multicultural and first-class public servant and somebody who is multifaith communities each have a seat at the table and passionate and committed to ensuring that we make the an opportunity to put their view is very important, and I most of and protect and promote the diversity that, as I think in broad terms there would be bipartisan support think we all agree, is so important to the future of our for as consultative an approach to policy making and state. program delivery in support of our multiculturalism as is possible. I am unaware whether there has been The opposition does not oppose the bill. We have a extensive consultation around these issues, and I ask the series of questions; there is some uncertainty around

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1001 how these new arrangements will work. I encourage the The bill recognises and values the cultural, religious, minister, if he can, to provide some comfort on those racial and linguistic diversity of Victoria. It recognises issues. That would be good. If he cannot do that, he can that the principles of multiculturalism are based on write to me while the bill is between the houses. citizenship. It also wishes to promote Victoria as a united community with shared laws, values, aspirations I want to conclude by making the point that what this and, importantly, responsibilities, which we as government can count on in all things and at all times is Victorians from diverse backgrounds all play a part in unwavering support for our cultural diversity and the meeting. What is very clear in this bill and in the multicultural and multifaith nature of our community government’s reforms is the fundamental significance today. The government can bank on that. We are of the relationship between multiculturalism and absolutely and fundamentally committed to the citizenship. It is very clear in the coalition’s policy and promotion and celebration of our cultural diversity. We throughout this bill that we recognise and celebrate the get it; we understand it. We supported it in government, diverse backgrounds of Victorians. We also recognise and in opposition we will be there shoulder to shoulder the responsibilities that go with that diversity in our role with anyone who has a similar view. That will be our as citizens. When I talk about citizenship I am really position, and the current government can bank on that referring to the rights and responsibilities of all people at all times and in all things. in a multicultural society.

Finally this debate provides me with an opportunity to There are some key elements of the previous legislation thank the former chair of the VMC, George Lekakis. I which are incorporated in this bill. I do not intend to had the great pleasure and privilege of working with speak on them, but there are more than a few. However, George during my time as the minister assisting the there are some fundamental changes in this bill, and I then Premier and Minister for Multicultural Affairs, will highlight a couple of them to the house tonight. Steve Bracks. George is one of those people who does One is that the government fundamentally supports the not just work to support multiculturalism, he lives to democratic framework governed by the rule of law as a support multiculturalism. He is a fantastic example of principle of multiculturalism. I want to restate that someone who walks it, talks it and works it every single principle tonight, and I want to restate my view and the day. There is no stronger supporter in our great state of government’s view that Victoria and Australia should the cultural diversity, the harmony and the respect that work towards the future interests of our people. set us apart than George, and on behalf of the Labor Party I commend him for his leadership and the role he I note that the bill reflects the government’s view that played. We wish him well in his new role, which is an multicultural affairs and policy are fundamental and are important role in and of itself. It would be wrong if we not something to play politics with. That is why I was did not take this opportunity to acknowledge the so pleased to see in this bill the removal of the political leadership, the passion, the vision and ultimately the slogan ‘A great place to live, work, invest and raise a absolute credibility of George and the work he has family’. I am pleased to see that that slogan will be done. He is always consistent and always hardworking removed from the legislation because as we know it in the pursuit of something we all value. was political spin; that is all it was. It was not necessary to include it in legislation on multicultural affairs, and I With those few comments I wish the bill a speedy commend the minister for removing it. passage, and I look forward to the minister providing us with some comfort on the issues I have raised. I want to I also want to comment on clause 4(3)(f) in part 2 of the say finally that our cultural diversity is such a huge bill, which reflects the values the coalition took to the asset to our state. All of us across the community are election. It says ‘that all individuals in Victoria should charged with the responsibility to support that diversity be united in a shared commitment to Australia and to in any way we can. community service’. This is a fundamental recognition of the importance of volunteerism, which goes hand in Mr GIDLEY (Mount Waverley) — It is my great hand with citizenship. We took this idea to the last pleasure to rise to speak in support of the Multicultural election. The people of our great state should do Victoria Bill 2011. In my contribution to the debate everything they can to contribute the wealth they tonight I intend to concentrate on a couple of areas. The bring — the wealth of their background, the wealth of first is to look at the broad values and policies that are their diversity — to Victoria in all ways. It is great to the driving force behind this bill and the second is to see volunteerism so evident throughout the bill. look at how the government intends to implement them. The new legislation implements the whole-of-government approach that is of fundamental

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1002 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 importance in the coalition’s policy document. The highlights the government’s belief that diversity of government’s multicultural policy does not stop at one background and opinion is especially important to office or department; it is a whole-of-government Victoria. The legislation seeks to utilise that as much as approach. The coalition government has announced a possible. number of measures to ensure such an approach is taken. In particular I highlight the establishment of a I am very pleased that the new commission, being ministerial interdepartmental multicultural services independent, will have the power to conduct research advisory committee, which will be important to and advise and report to the minister on a range of ensuring that there is consistency across government issues. It is important to ensure that it has the authority and that the knowledge and skills of the different to provide that specialist advice, which is also departments are brought together so the government consistent with the coalition’s policy. It is great to see can put its best foot forward on multicultural affairs. in this legislation provision for the appointment to the commission of a person between the ages of 18 and 24. The mechanisms for implementing the government’s This is also consistent with the coalition’s policy to policy are important and fundamental. They represent ensure that there is a younger member of the significant changes in Victoria. First and foremost the commission. I commend the minister on following that bill re-establishes the Victorian Multicultural through. It will add another dimension to the Commission (VMC) as an independent statutory office. commission. It is important to highlight that because it is consistent with the overarching view of the government that the On the issue of independence, one great aspect of this commission needs to be seen as an independent body legislation is that the commission can determine when with a specialist skill set that is apart from politics and it needs to meet; it does not need ministerial direction to government. I note that under the existing legislation do so. That is part of the added value it provides: it the commission is an administrative office formed ensures the perception of independence as well as the under order in council and the Public Affairs reality. I commend the minister on this. Administration Act 2004 and that its chair is responsible to the Secretary of the Department of The provision establishing regional advisory councils Premier and Cabinet. One of the great things the bill represents the bottom-up approach — rather than a does is ensure that the commission is an independent top-down approach — that is consistent with the statutory office and that the chair is responsible to the government’s view that the skills, resources and minister. That is important to ensure not only the knowledge of multicultural affairs from across Victoria commission’s independence but also the perception of should be harnessed. They will be brought together its independence. I note the consistency between the through the regional advisory councils, which will coalition’s election commitment on multicultural affairs ensure that the information is fed up through the VMC and the bill before us, which delivers on that and that the contributions of all people across Victoria commitment. are valued. I note the increased reporting requirements of the commission to make sure that it fulfils its role of A number of questions have been asked about the reporting on whole-of-government measures. These independence of the commission — not necessarily the requirements are stringent and effective. They will current organisation but that of days gone by. I draw to achieve the intended outcomes. This is a great piece of the attention of members the fact that at one stage 8 out legislation that is consistent with coalition policy. It is of the 12 members of the Victorian Multicultural my great pleasure to commend it to the house. Commission were card-carrying members of the Labor Party. I do not think that was healthy for the perceived Mr PANDAZOPOULOS (Dandenong) — I would independence of the VMC or for multicultural affairs in like to say it is a pleasure to speak on this bill, but I Victoria. One of the benefits of having an independent think it is unnecessary. The current Victorian statutory office — one which will be much more Multicultural Commission (VMC) has been working independent in both reality and perception — is that we extremely effectively. As the member for Mount would be less likely to see that happen again. That is Waverley highlighted with the dot points in his fantastic. discussion notes, the reason this bill has been introduced is the perception members of the I bring to the attention of the house that the bill adds a government had of the commission when they were in couple of key objectives to the Victorian Multicultural opposition. Members of the government talked about Commission. One is to promote the rights and the independence of the commission — not necessarily responsibilities of citizenship as a unifying force that the current commission, but the past commission — strengthens our diverse multicultural community. This and the chair being responsible to the minister. This

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1003 highlights the paranoia members of the government had The Liberals got into government and created two about the commission when they were in opposition. agencies around that paranoia. They created a multicultural commission, which we did not sack or Opposition members will not oppose the bill, because remove people from; we kept the same people on the government did at least make it available to the board, because we knew that the people involved in community and roughly said what it would do. public policy in the multicultural area, irrespective of However, as the Leader of the Opposition has said, the their politics, are involved because they are passionate reality is that apart from what took place during the about this area. They are not involved in public policy election campaign there has not been a lot of discussion because they can get paid more working in this area amongst stakeholder groups on this issue. than in other areas; they are in this field because they strongly believe in it, and people from all sides of the I am not saying this because the multicultural political fence are very passionate and involved in commission has worked well or because I am a former multiculturalism. Minister Assisting the Premier on Multicultural Affairs and I am passionate about multiculturalism. It is also If such people are involved in employment in this area, not a criticism of the minister — who I would like to they are doing it for love, not money. They are say is a friend of mine — who understands that there is committed because they understand that a consistent a lot of bipartisan support for multiculturalism and that approach needs to be taken over time if you are to get we say certain things because we are passionate about appropriate support for diversity from the community them. As politicians we understand that sometimes we and if you are to get the appropriate recognition of and want to make points of difference during election service delivery for those people who come from campaigns, and just because we seek to make points of culturally and religiously diverse backgrounds across difference does not mean that they lead to good public Victoria to support their needs as Victorians and as policy outcomes, and the bill we have before us is a citizens of our state. reflection of that. The Baillieu government when in opposition had a point of difference with the In 1992 the Kennett government sacked the Ethnic government of the day — that is, the former Labor Affairs Commission within its first 100 days; in government — and there was a bit of paranoia around 2011 — bingo! — and a very similar event is the commission and its centralised focus, which happening now. I am highlighting that the government members of the former Labor government thought has form in this area. Yes, when you put in a lot more worked effectively. resources — as we did in government — sometimes you can confuse those extra resources going out in the The reality is that whilst it is extremely pleasing that a community theoretically with being of political benefit consistent bipartisan approach has been taken on to the government of the day, or you can have a look at multicultural affairs — and I commend the minister, that as an appropriate recognition of the need for who has from the earliest days of his government put resources to go into the community. out positive press releases and been supportive of some of these sorts of issues, which illustrates that bipartisan In previous speeches I have given on multicultural support — it does not mean that the government and affairs I have highlighted that the amount of money the opposition do not have differences of opinion going into multicultural affairs in the state budget around what is good public policy and around 2 years ago was a lot higher than it was 10 years ago, resources. The minister himself has said as much many but it is a pittance compared to what it is in a whole lot times when he has spoken at or attended different of other sectors, and we get good value for money from events. that funding. We should not confuse grants to communities — grants to encourage them to share their It is important to understand that it is not only the cultures and festivals with the broader community, government of the day that has had this issue. For good grants so that we can take programs like Cultural or bad, there is a bit of history in this area amongst Diversity Week into schools, grants that can support political parties on the other side. When I was elected in seniors groups with their activities and grants so that 1992, within a very similar time frame — roughly community groups can own their own buildings rather 100 days — the Kennett government abolished the than using other taxpayer-funded public buildings — Ethnic Affairs Commission, which had its own with political benefit for the government of the day that legislation. That commission was a similar body to the increased those resources. multicultural commission — one body doing both policy delivery and implementation, and administering With the greatest respect to the other side, I think there the grants program in consultation with the community. is a hint of this occurring, and we heard about it from

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1004 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 the previous speaker. I do not know whether the other department. That simply was not happening, and member for Mount Waverley was right that 8 of the that is why we brought them together. There was no 12 commissioners at one point in time were members political agenda. of the Labor Party. I have no idea; that is never a requirement for me, and it was never a requirement They were brought together because of the principles when I was minister. If you simply create a new on which Tourism Victoria is based — and guess what? structure because that is what you think, then you are Would government members like to know where we not handling public policy well, and I will outline some found the model? We found it because I was the of the problems with that. Minister for Tourism. I asked why Tourism Victoria worked: it distributes grants, consults with stakeholders, Some might ask why the former government merged does the policy development and delivery, and also the two organisations when I was Minister Assisting the reports separately to Parliament under its own act of Premier on Multicultural Affairs. On the one hand one Parliament. Tourism Victoria’s chair is independent, organisation was able to deliver grants, consult to its which is very similar to the commission, and it works heart’s content and report to the Parliament, but if it quite well because it is all streamlined. When someone could not do anything with that consultation, then it was talks about tourism, they know it is Tourism Victoria. a toothless tiger; on the other hand there was the Victorian Office of Multicultural Affairs — Of course when you are knocking on the door to have well-meaning public servants — and that agency had a meetings to deliver whole-of-government approaches, very high turnover, as any new agency will. To be this tends to happen. It is the same with Regional blunt, often multicultural affairs is an entry point to the Development Victoria, and the former Labor public sector and there is a big turnover of staff, which government created that structure. What we are simply can mean a lack of consistency in the doing now is moving away from good practice with whole-of-government approaches that we all preach other stakeholder-interest organisations, like Tourism about and support, including the government. It is good Victoria et cetera, and what we will have is a weaker to keep talking about having a whole-of-government policy outcome in the future. A less cohesive approach approach and developing mechanisms to develop that will be taken. I know the minister and the Premier are approach, but it was not working, because the chair of committed, but you cannot rely on commitment alone, the commission, who reported independently to the because at the end of the day what any minister Parliament — — understands, and the current Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship is learning it now, is that 50 per Mr Kotsiras — You sacked her. cent of the time ministers work at getting the government — the public servants — to deliver Mr PANDAZOPOULOS — No, the chair of the outcomes and the other 50 per cent of the time multicultural commission had less power, and the office ministers try to plan ahead, consult and do things on of multicultural affairs was weak in the sense that the behalf of the community that elected them. If you small number of people in that office — maybe cannot deliver the 50 per cent that you need the rest of 11 people at that point in time — were trying to move government to click on, you will not perform as well, their own agenda within a large department. Guess irrespective of how well meaning the minister of the what happens with departmental secretaries and the day and the Premier of the day are in their support of heads of departments? Multicultural affairs is not the multiculturalism. To me this will mean less cohesion in big item of the budget. The departmental head tries to the future and fewer resources available to communities protect the biggest item of the department’s budget, and in a competitive environment around a that is where most of the pressures are. The director of whole-of-government approach to multicultural affairs, the office of multicultural affairs was always battling and over time I think we will see fewer dollars for the this scenario. The reason the Labor government brought VMC as well. the two organisations together was to attain uniformity. The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Languiller) — If you are consulting, then you need to have power and Order! The member’s time has expired. authority. The chair of the VMC, including Stefan Romaniw and George Lekakis, was able to meet with Mr WAKELING (Ferntree Gully) — It gives me Simon Overland at Victoria Police and have a pleasure to rise to speak on the Multicultural Victoria discussion. The director of the office of multicultural Bill 2011. I stand in this place very proud of the Liberal affairs cannot do that, because he is not a deputy Party’s support for multiculturalism and very secretary or a head of department. Try to get that same supportive of the bill that is before the house. I must say meeting with the head of the health department, or any that I was concerned and disappointed by the comments

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1005 made by the member for Dandenong regarding the from around the world of separate organisations being government’s agenda for multiculturalism in this state, created that operate autonomously from each other. because we believe that multiculturalism should be Whether you are a minister or you are in charge of an bipartisan. It should be something that is supported by organisation, it is all about the way you set up a both parties, but the way in which the debate has been governance model and the way you control it to ensure conducted has been very disappointing. I must say that that the two separate organisations operate in an that tone concerns me if that is the way we are going to appropriate way. frame this debate. I am pleased that the Minister for Multicultural Affairs Nevertheless, we believe that as an incoming and Citizenship has taken the initiative to create this government we have an obligation to ensure that the new organisation to ensure that we put multicultural Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) operates affairs at the top of this state’s priorities, that we put in a sound manner and that it is run appropriately. The mechanisms in place that include appropriate checks objective of this government is to improve upon the and balances, and more importantly that the system that was in place under the Bracks and Brumby organisation responsible for dealing with many of the governments. The former Labor government had three ethnic groups around this state can do so without being members responsible for multicultural affairs in directly under the control of the minister. That is the Victoria: the former Premier, who was also the Minister hallmark of this legislation. for Multicultural Affairs; a Minister Assisting the Premier on Multicultural Affairs; and a parliamentary Some points were raised previously about the many secretary for multicultural affairs. Despite the fact that affiliations that VMC members had with the Labor there were three members of the government Party. People in this state have the right to be a member responsible for multicultural affairs, there remained a of any political party. There is no problem with that. All lack of coordination, vision and policy in the operation of us in this house are members of political parties. of this important portfolio. However, clearly there were concerns. You only have to look at the annual report of the VMC to see the Under the former Labor government the VMC’s number of staff who were members of the Australian independence was compromised. Many people Labor Party. There is nothing wrong with people being believed that the VMC became a mere mouthpiece of members of the Australian Labor Party, the Liberal the former government. That was not just the concern Party or The Nationals, but it is concerning to hear the of members on this side of the house but one raised by member for Dandenong, who was the Minister many in the multicultural community. These people Assisting the Premier on Multicultural Affairs and who expressed concern about the way in which the is at the table, say that he was unaware that the organisation was being run by the former government. people — —

The former Victorian Office of Multicultural Affairs Mr Pandazopoulos — No, I said that I doubted (VOMA) was incorporated into the VMC to guarantee whether it was true. political control. Concerns had been raised about the money spent on hiring consultants. There was very little Mr WAKELING — I can only say that I would value for money in terms of services delivered, and in have assumed that the then minister would have been fact issues were raised in this house by members of the aware of whether or not people who were serving on then Liberal opposition about the nearly $1.5 million his board would have been members of his own that was spent on casual and full-time staff and political party. He may not have known if they were consultants. Clearly there was concern about the way in members of another political party, but in the scheme of which multicultural affairs programs were being run things it would not have been unreasonable to think that under the previous government. he would have known whether or not they were members of his own political party. We will leave that There was constant conflict and argument between the to history; history will judge whether or not that was the VOMA and the VMC, and concerns were raised about case. whether or not the minister was in control. The member for Dandenong, who was the Minister Assisting the We on this side of the house are very proud of our Premier on Multicultural Affairs and who is at the table, record on multiculturalism. We take the view that it is will have his opinion about the way he operated his bipartisan, and many of us have attended functions on a department, and that is his right. However, he allowed bipartisan basis. Moving forward under the new the situation to evolve to a point where he had to government we hope that that spirit of bipartisanship amalgamate the two organisations. There are examples will continue to prevail with respect to multicultural

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1006 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 affairs. However, the way in which the previous Mr BROOKS (Bundoora) — It is a pleasure to join government operated was deeply concerning. I am the debate on the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. At reminded by the minister at the table, the Minister for the outset I reiterate the articulate comments made by Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship, of the time when the Leader of the Opposition in his contribution about he made a freedom of information request to VOMA. the way that this side of the house, and I think all An email from its then acting director was revealed, members of this chamber, value the important which stated: contribution of multiculturalism in Victoria and the rich diversity of our community that helps make the It looks like Nick Kotsiras wants to know what we have in Victorian community the strong community that it is. our cocktail cabinet and whether the government funds wild parties in the boardroom. The bill itself, as previous speakers on this side of the I do not think that is the type of comment we want house have mentioned, is effectively a replication of a made by our office for multicultural affairs. I am previous bill with some minor changes. Some of those advised that that particular public servant was shifted changes are worth supporting. The addition of regional sideways into another portfolio. Maybe that was advisory councils is a worthwhile one, and from a appropriate in the circumstances, but that demonstrates personal perspective I think it is a good addition to the a great concern that we have on this side of the house function of the Victorian Multicultural Commission about the way in which the previous system had (VMC). It is a bit unclear how those regional advisory operated. councils will work and how they will be based, so we look forward to hearing more detail about those. We Another area of great concern to many members on this want to know how they will complement or, if you take side of the house is in the area of languages other than the negative view, how they might duplicate some of English. That is clearly an area we have focused on as the functions of existing regional bodies that already an incoming government. There was concern that, perform fantastic work in regional Victoria and in under the previous regime, this area was fragmented different parts of Melbourne. and faltering. As we know, international students were falling victim to growing violence on our streets and One of the key functions of this bill is to repeal the there was complete inaction by the previous previous Multicultural Victoria Act 2004 and replace government about that issue. It was not until two years the Victorian Multicultural Commission with a new later that the former government acted on the concerns entity. One of the key concerns I have about this bill is of international students. It took until mid-2009 for the the way in which it has entered this house to be debated former government to act on that issue, and we are today. The previous bill, the bill that was introduced by seeing it played out now; we are seeing that enrolments the former Labor government in 2004, was not put up of Indian students, for example, are shifting to areas for debate less than two weeks after being tabled in the such as England because they do not see this state as a house, as this bill has been. The first we saw of this bill safe place to be educated. That is greatly concerning, was when it was tabled here less than two weeks ago. and I would hope in the spirit of bipartisanship we can There has been no real opportunity for consultation arrest that situation and once again make this state a with the Victorian community. great state where international students can be educated. That stands in stark contrast to what happened in 2004 As we know, one of the biggest employers in the city of when the previous minister, the member for Melbourne is the education services sector, particularly Dandenong, who is in the chamber at the moment, took as it relates to international students. It is not just a the bill that was to go through the house through an multicultural issue; it is an economic issue. It is clearly extensive consultation process. The then government in everyone’s interests. I am pleased to see that this appointed a panel of three eminent Victorians, and I government is going to take the lead on this issue and think people will remember those people: Maureen that it is going to put in place the framework that is Lister, Haddon Storey and the chair, Professor John needed. I am also very pleased that the minister at the Nieuwenhuysen. They produced a discussion paper table, the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and which went through an extensive consultation process. Citizenship, is very well versed with a large number of There were nine community consultation forums held multicultural organisations in this state. I can only hope throughout Victoria, both in regional Victoria and those opposite will be willing to embrace a bipartisan metropolitan Melbourne. People in Victoria were urged approach and embrace this bill. More importantly, let to contribute to the consultation process to help shape us focus on being positive and supporting this bill so we the legislation that was then brought into the chamber. can demonstrate that there is clear bipartisan support for this bill before the house.

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Importantly that discussion paper was produced in Tolerance Act 2001, again, went through a very 21 different languages, as you would expect of a bill of extensive consultation process, with, I think from this type, so that people from our multicultural memory, over 5000 submissions coming in. It was a communities were able to have input on the important very important piece of legislation that the Labor piece of legislation that was coming into this house. It is government was very concerned to make sure came to extraordinary that we have a bill here today that is very this place only after going through a thorough similar in nature, scope and importance — everyone consultation process. agrees on the importance of this sort of legislation — but has not gone through a similar process. It is only We are proud of the amount of funding that was available in English, so multicultural communities do delivered to multicultural groups through the period of not have the benefit of the sort of consultation process the Labor government. We can only hope the new in their own languages that was afforded to them by the government continues to support multicultural groups original Labor process. I think that is a valid concern, throughout our community in the way that the Labor and it is something that this government hopefully takes government did. The Leader of the Opposition onboard in future initiatives in the area of multicultural mentioned a sevenfold increase in funding to affairs. multicultural groups over the time of the previous government. Over 2000 groups throughout Victoria are As other members have mentioned, there are no recipients of that sort of funding. I know in my local substantive concerns about the content of the bill as area there are some fantastic small local groups, groups such. However, it would be quite reasonable to expect like the Bundoora Italian senior citizens, the Macleod that the government goes out and engages the Italian senior citizens and the Diamond Valley Greek community in conversation about what it is doing. In senior citizens, which bring together older people from part 6 of the bill, clause 26(b) outlines the need for non-English speaking backgrounds in their own cultural government departments to communicate with the groups over a game of cards or indoor bowls or over a community in languages other than English and make meal, which helps them connect and enjoy each other’s sure the multicultural media are engaged by company when otherwise they might be isolated. I government departments. It is quite ironic that a bill think the relatively small grants that are provided to that actually sets out the need for communication in a these groups would come out very well from a range of different languages does not do that itself in cost-benefit analysis of the benefits they bring to our terms of how it came to this place. local community.

The other aspect I want to talk about is in relation to the Another great initiative of the previous government was media release that the minister issued announcing these the Cultural Precincts Enhancement Fund, which saw changes on 3 February. That included the investment in our key cultural precincts — Lygon announcement that the VMC would be replaced with a Street, Lonsdale Street and Little Bourke Street — to more independent public entity. That was said to be in highlight and enhance those showpieces of our cultural accordance with the Liberal-Nationals coalition plan for diversity. multicultural Victoria that it took to the election. A number of changes to the Victorian Multicultural There are the language services that the previous Commission were outlined in that policy document, but government invested in, making sure that interpreting the replacement of the VMC was not mentioned in that and translating services were provided for government policy document. Therefore I think it was unfair of the services. Then of course there are settlement support minister to include that comment in the media release services. One of the services that has not received much and give people the impression that it was always attention but was a fantastic initiative of the previous understood that the coalition would replace the VMC government is the refugee health nurse program. when in fact that was certainly not made public. Refugees who arrive in Victoria often come from places where there are poor health services and As the Leader of the Opposition and the member for sometimes even non-existent health infrastructure. Dandenong have made quite clear, this side of the These people, who are mainly from Africa, Asia and house, the former Labor government in Victoria, has a the Middle East, are sometimes ineligible for Medicare very strong record in multicultural affairs. We are very assistance. These people are assisted and their primary proud of that record, including support for the act that I health care needs are addressed by the program. That have just talked about, the Multicultural Victoria helps them settle more quickly and comfortably into Act 2004, the Charter of Human Rights and new communities. I think that is a very important Responsibilities Act 2006 and the Racial and Religious policy initiative of the previous government. Again, I Tolerance Act 2001. The Racial and Religious

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1008 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 hope the new Liberal-Nationals government continues migrants have made their mark they have built the great to support and in fact grow that vital service. state of Victoria.

The last area that I want to focus on is the changes to The bill before the house makes a number of important the VMC that have been flagged by the minister in changes. These are driven by the current minister, the terms of the removal of the policy and administrative member for Bulleen, who spent 20 years of his life functions from that body. It is important that there is working in this field and who understands the issues. I some clarity delivered around how those changes will pay respect to other keen contributors to the arena, impact on multicultural Victoria, in particular on how including previous speakers of the house, former the grant allocation process will work. My personal ministers, the member for Dandenong and those people view is that it would be preferable that the situation who have served on the Victorian Multicultural continue where there is an independent body making Commission (VMC), who have had a great depth of decisions around grant allocation and supporting experience and expertise and who have sought to make multicultural Victorians rather than having that happen a contribution to the diversity and tapestry of the within the Department of Premier and Cabinet, making Victorian community. I nominate people in my own it effectively the minister’s process, with the experience of the commission, such as Professor Trang government allocating the funding. Thomas, Stefan Romaniw and in more recent decades George Lekakis, who held the brief over a long period There will always be a perception, whether it is factual of time. or not, that the government has influence on how grants are distributed. If we are going to have strong cultural The object of the commission is not to colonise an support for multiculturalism in Victoria, it is important organisation or entity with people of a particular to remove the partisan politics from this area. As I say, I political affiliation but rather to strengthen community think the best way of doing that would be to leave the groups and organisations that require support and to grants allocation process and the important policy and make those organisations that are beneficiaries of the administrative functions with an independent body like grants program function more effectively, whether they the VMC. I commend the bill to the house. be dealing with the aged end of the spectrum or an important initiative advanced by the minister at the Mr THOMPSON (Sandringham) — In the table, the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and chamber at the present time are people whose countries Citizenship, such as the promotion of the role of of origin or whose parents’ countries of origin include volunteers in Victorian community life. Volunteers Uruguay, Greece, Malaysia, England, Ireland, Scotland have been a great hallmark of what has made Victoria a and Germany. That is just to run through some of the great state in which to make a contribution. people in the immediate arena at the present time. Australia is a nation of immigrants and over 40 per cent From the wheatfields of the Wimmera, where the early of Victorians were either born overseas or had a parent Scottish and German Lutheran pioneers worked under who was born overseas. Victoria has developed the the heat of the sun, through to the different parts of reputation of being the multicultural capital of the Victoria where early settlers predominantly from world, in addition to being the sporting capital of the England, Ireland and Scotland made their way through world and formerly the BYO restaurant capital of the the goldfields, pioneers were strengthening the state to world. That is a reflection of the diverse backgrounds of the point at which over 100 years ago our capital city its citizens. became known as Marvellous Melbourne. At that time we were regarded in per capita terms as one of the Not far from here is what we might perhaps call a wealthiest places in the world in which to live. coliseum, where people have striven to advance worthy causes in a uniquely Australian game. The names that I would argue that the success of Victoria has not come have become legends within that arena include the by chance. It has come through the heritage of the early Jesaulenkos and Silvagnis through to the indigenous pioneers. I would also argue that the Judaeo-Christian players, the Riolis, and the people now embarking upon ethos and influence has been interwoven into the fabric that code who have emerged from the Horn of Africa of Victorian and Australian institutions. region, not to mention the great Irish experiment of people such as Jim Stynes and Sean Wight, who made In his book The Politics of Hope Rabbi Jonathan Sacks their mark on the Melbourne Football Club. It is there wrote that freedom is a moral accomplishment. It in the crucible of contest that people have had the requires strong families, cohesive institutions, habits of opportunity to make their mark in what started out as civility and law abidance, and a widely diffused sense the Port Phillip District. As successive waves of of fellow feeling. It needs virtues, rational reflection

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1009 and conversation, courage and persistence, the pursuit sought to live in Victoria’s prosperous economic of ideas and ideals, and the carefully cultivated climate that made Victoria a model which the rest of disciplines of dialogue with and mutual respect for the world could follow. those with whom we may disagree. It also needs institutions that inculcate these values and role models The bill before the house has made some important who might inspire our own efforts. The VMC has an changes to the structure of the commission, and I important role in this context in terms of the values it commend the minister for those initiatives and changes has articulated and defined and which serve to underpin and for the redefinition of the various bodies that the focus of future Victorian life. govern the implementation of policy in Victoria. In summary I would like to make the following Historically the arena of multicultural affairs has been comments. The role of volunteerism is pivotal to good treated within this chamber on a bipartisan basis, and it policy and good community outcomes in Victoria. The is important that that be outworked on a continuing engagement of the diasporas from over 200 countries basis so that there is a focus on inclusion in community who have settled in this state is of critical importance. debate and dialogue, not the partition, segregation or There should be a process of inclusion, dialogue and the raising of matters for pragmatic political advantage outworking of policies that are well adapted to the even where opportunities for that might arise. Victorian and national political context so that we stand as a stronger state and a stronger nation to meet the There are more serious debates in the West, but this challenges of the next decades. arena is not one in which to focus on those particular discussions. There are skilled and keen minds that can Mr LANGUILLER (Derrimut) — It gives me tackle the review of debates that have traversed the last pleasure to rise in support of the Multicultural Victoria 1500 years and that will of necessity be undertaken. I Bill 2011 and to follow many good speakers on both have always liked the 13th century story about a sides. It is always a pleasure to follow the member for discussion between a person of Jewish faith, one of Sandringham. We have had this discussion among Muslim faith and one of Christian faith which I will members of both sides on many occasions. I say at the broadly paraphrase. They did not conclude their outset — if Hansard is able to record my accent! — that discussion; rather they said they would agree to I am the son of a Uruguayan family of French-Italian disagree and would nevertheless agree to meet again to background, which came to this country thanks to the continue their discussions. It is very important that generosity of this nation and the Gough Whitlam dialogue continue to take place in a spirit of respect, federal government in 1974. goodwill and rapport. I turn to the things we need to do in relation to the bill. I As the multicultural capital of the world, Victoria has refer to the whole-of-government approach and the seen successive waves of migration, including the early responsibility the government departments will have Chinese settlers in the 19th century. Across the country under part 6 headed ‘Reporting requirements of there was the migration of Afghani settlers, who were government departments and ministers’. That is involved in managing the role of camels in Central fundamental. It is very good that we have a Australia. Then there were the people who arrived from whole-of-government approach, with government the Mediterranean after the First World War, and then departments having to undertake a whole range of the post-Second World War settlements of Germans, responsibilities and report to the minister, the Greeks, Italians and Slavs, followed by the migration of Parliament and the people of Victoria. It could not be the Vietnamese in the 1970s. At that time a pivotal done properly any other way. In passing I say that I am decision was made by former Prime Minister Malcolm proud of the Australian model — indeed the Victorian Fraser to allow the migration of Indochinese people model — that we have adopted and the work that has into the country. been done by both parties, particularly by the Labor government from 1999 onwards, including the I had the privilege of attending a number of community Multicultural Act we introduced. celebrations and gatherings which marked the contribution and successful settlement of those people May I say that I wholeheartedly support bipartisanship. from Indochina in Victoria and their ongoing regard for There are no winners in wedge politics. We have only freedom. At such a gathering one Indochinese lady told to look to Europe, the United States of America and a me that you only know the meaning of freedom when it whole range of other jurisdictions. Therefore it is is taken away from you. There are people who migrated incumbent on all of us to make sure that we control — here from Eastern Europe at a slightly earlier time and if I may say that — every member of the political have understood the meaning of freedom and have establishment in this country when they derail that

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1010 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 bipartisanship. There have been examples of that. I will this on the record. Members of this house would know not refer to them because I do not wish to tarnish this that the term ‘Australia’ was first used in 1606 by debate by referring to the examples that have from time Captain Quiros, a Spanish-Portuguese captain. He used to time derailed that bipartisanship. We expect the the term ‘Austrialia del Espiritu Santo’, translated as government will ensure that no member on that side or ‘the southern land Australia of the Holy Spirit’. on our side ever derails bipartisanship on this issue Members may have read about this. When he wrote to because, as I said, there will be no winners. the king at the time about the cartography of New South Wales it was the first time the name had been Having regional councils is a good idea. The member used in relation to Australia. Members would know that for Bundoora raised questions that are pertinent to how he was accompanied by Captain Torres, another they will work. I am confident the government will Spanish navigator who was in this region in 1606. Of work through those issues, and if necessary the course the Torres Strait, which unites us with Indonesia, government and the minister will talk to us and to the carries his name. community in relation to that. Since we are working in the spirit of bipartisanship we will be able to work Another important contribution of a multicultural through them. nature came from Captain Arthur Phillip. As we know, he captained the First Fleet. He was of German-Jewish I refer to the consultation that took place before and background and his father spoke six languages. Why do after the introduction of the bill. The minister would I refer to the life of Captain Arthur Phillip? Because, as have probably wanted more time for consultation I have said in the Parliament, he was not properly before and after he read the bill a second time for the recognised by either the English in the United Kingdom purpose of engaging the community in the process. As or by Australians at the time. As I have said also in this you would know, Speaker, this is a reflection of the fact Parliament in the past, Captain Arthur Phillip had been that the government’s legislative agenda is thin. The in my country of birth, Uruguay, prior to arriving at government has no other legislation and has had to Botany Bay. There was a multicultural and a bring the bill before the house today. I say to the multilingual connection — indeed one of a Minister for Multicultural Affairs that it would have German-Jewish background — in the very birth of this been better if the broader community of Victoria had nation when Arthur Phillip arrived at Botany Bay. had more time to engage in consultation on the legislation. However, it is good legislation, and we I am proud of the multicultural model and how it works should support it strongly. in this nation. I have looked at the models of other jurisdictions such as Canada, the United States and I will quote from a paper that I presented probably Europe, and I passionately believe we have the best more than 12 months ago at a Commonwealth model anywhere in the world. We must treasure it, we Parliamentary Association conference held in New must protect it and we must uphold it. I commend the Zealand. I talked about parliamentary democracy, government for introducing this bill. I particularly parliamentary multiculturalism and democracy in commend the Labor government because it introduced Victoria. Given my background it would be remiss of the Multicultural Victoria Act 2004 and the Charter of me not to refer to the fact that cultural diversity stems Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006. Those from a shift from a policy of assimilation with a two acts working in conjunction are fundamental to the monocultural Anglo-Saxon and Celtic ideal to a policy wellbeing of this nation and the wellbeing of Victoria. I of multiculturalism. That occurred when a speech was am delighted to be consulted by members of made by an old friend of mine and a Gough Whitlam parliaments in other jurisdictions who want to look at government minister, Al Grassby. In 1973 he the way we do business. introduced the term ‘multiculturalism’. That was the first time the term entered into the rhetoric of Australian It would be remiss of me not to put on the record again immigration policy. Grassby’s speech — I will quote and commend the work of the Victorian Multicultural from my own paper — ‘affirmed diversity in the Commission. I accept that it will change. I wish it good context of the United Nations International Covenant luck, but I am a bit concerned about it being split into on Civil and Political Rights’. That was an important two parts. We have talked about it — the member for turning point and an important part of Labor legacy. Dandenong talked about it at length, and I will not We stand proud of that. We are delighted to see that repeat that. Importantly, like the Leader of the other governments thereafter continued to build on that. Opposition, I place on record my congratulations to George Lekakis. He was a fantastic chair. He is a great I turn to the history of multiculturalism. It is a bit of a Victorian and a fantastic person who stood up for long shot, but again it would be remiss of me to not put multiculturalism in Victoria. I wish this bill a speedy

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1011 passage. I am sure it will work well. I also wish the dinner. They have told me that I planted my vegetables minister good luck. I know he will work with the at the wrong time, and I have told them that their wine opposition and the multicultural communities well. We was not as good as mine — all those sorts of things. look forward to strong bipartisanship in Victoria in relation to this bill. We all belong to this great nation. I go to citizenship ceremonies and I see people moving to the Yarra Mrs FYFFE (Evelyn) — I am pleased to speak on Ranges, which was predominantly Anglo-Saxon or the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. I start by Dutch but is now changing. We also have people from commending the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Africa and the Middle East moving to country areas, Citizenship, who travelled widely around Victoria and which is terrific. The recent multicultural gala dinner, consulted with every group he could possibly reach on which was attended by over 1400 people, was a this legislation and what it would do. He consulted so fantastic night featuring different languages and widely that he even spoke to a Pom, which is most costumes along with much colour and enjoyment. Like unusual when you are talking about multicultural most husbands, my husband does not enjoy dancing affairs! very much, and I was asked to dance by a lady from our table. In the end there were about 10 of us dancing I have great admiration for the person mentioned by the together. There were Indian ladies, a Malay-Chinese previous speaker who could speak six languages. I lady — I think — as well as ladies from Singapore and studied French at school for four years, and I remember Africa, and we had a wonderful time dancing, laughing going to France thinking that I would be able to have a and talking together. That is what Australia is all about. conversation. To my horror, no-one could understand It is something very precious and something we have to my English-accented French; it was a total disaster. The maintain. minister for multicultural affairs has his second-reading speech for this bill available in 10 different languages One of the things I love about this country is the on the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s website, predominant attitude of ‘live and let live’, a sentiment and that is fantastic. It is there on the website so that which the majority of Australians hold. They will say, many of those who do not have English as their first ‘I may not agree with what you say, but I will defend to language can still read and understand it. I commend the death your right to say it’ or ‘I may not agree with the minister for that. your religious beliefs, but I will defend to the death your choice to practise the religion you want’. That is I came here in 1967 from a tiny village in the middle of the attitude of the vast majority of Australians. There England, where my mother referred to people living are a few ratbags who we always need to guard against down the road as ‘the new people’ even though they and work on, but when we look at our schools and the had been there for 25 years. Members can imagine that beautiful children playing there, enjoying things and I was not exposed to many people of different totally enjoying their lives — — nationalities in that tiny village. When I came here I went to a migrant hostel where the majority of people An honourable member interjected. were English, Irish, Scottish and German. There were a few Turkish people and a few Europeans from Baltic Mrs FYFFE — I suppose, Speaker, I should refer to countries, but it was mainly inhabited by white people. the bill or you will pull me up. I was waxing lyrical It was great; I was quite impressed and felt quite about how much I love this country, this state and what sophisticated having friends from other countries. it all adds up to. I look around at the faces in the chamber today and listen to members with beautiful As the years have gone by I have watched the diversity Spanish or Greek accents — — of this country grow, and it makes me so proud. There is a beautiful mosaic of people here in Victoria. When An honourable member interjected. my family come out from England they just cannot believe it. Even though England has so many people Mrs FYFFE — Yes, you do have an accent. The from many other nations, they do not get on as well as Treasurer criticises me and is always asking me to say we do. There is such a broad, warm acceptance. ‘vegetables’ because he says I pronounce it incorrectly, Recently the minister came to the Yarra Valley with me but that is how you say it when you come from the and met with the Italian cultural group. They are people north of England. It is to protect that diversity that we who had been friends of mine for years, and I am need this legislation and we need to have this ashamed to say that I had never really thought of them independent commission. This builds on the policy as being Italian or needing a cultural group. They are which was taken to the election by the friends with whom we have shared food and eaten

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Liberal-Nationals government, and I quote from that … promote unity, understanding and harmony among … policy: diverse communities …

We are fortunate to live in a state where our various cultures As we learn more about each other we certainly have unify us by our commitment to our nation and its democratic that coming through. I refer back to the children again institutions, laws, values and the notion of a ‘fair go’ for all. and how they play happily together as long as no-one is telling them, ‘This person is wrong’, and ‘That person The fair go for all is what really makes us strong. With is wrong’. The kids can teach us a lot about the right attitude and willingness, we are going to understanding, harmony and working together. achieve great things. We have achieved so much in the last 40 years-plus that I have been living in Australia — The objectives of the commission are also to promote since I was a babe in arms. better understanding; promote interaction between individuals and communities; promote the social, We need this legislation in order to implement the cultural and economic benefits of diversity; promote the policies that the coalition took to the election. This bill rights and responsibilities of citizenship as a uniting incorporates an updated preamble to the Multicultural force that strengthens our diverse communities; and Victoria Act 2004, it updates outdated principles of promote community service as a principle that builds a multiculturalism, it re-establishes the Victorian stronger society — which of course refers to Multicultural Commission with updated objectives and volunteerism. Community service is something many functions, and it provides for the establishment of eight Australians are so good at, no matter what is happening. regional advisory councils. This is very important. I do When my husband was ill my Italian neighbours not really live outside Melbourne even though I think I brought food in when I was in this place. I have to tell am from the country. I am really on the fringes, but I members he ate very well — I was quite envious. This spend a lot of time in country Victoria and it is very is what we do. It is the community service, the looking important that we have these regional councils. after each other, the volunteering and the caring. No Recently I spent a weekend in Shepparton and saw the matter where we come from, no matter what accent we diversity of the nationalities there. have and no matter what colour our skin, we are all Mr Kotsiras interjected. Australians.

Mrs FYFFE — I actually went with my husband, Mr LIM (Clayton) — As the member representing Minister. It was a good weekend. the most multicultural seat in Victoria, I suppose I may seek permission from the Chair to be a bit emotional With regard to Shepparton, a regional council would and also a little chauvinistic about this bill. Of course mean that input from that region could be fed back to the opposition does not oppose this bill, but it would be the commission. The bill sets up the Victorian remiss of me not to address some of the talking down Multicultural Commission as a statutory authority that or dismissal of the achievements of the Labor will report directly to the minister. It will no longer be government over the past 11 years in this field. Having an administrative office aligned with any department. said that, and noting that the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship is at the table, I will say that I I did not know a lot about the previous commission. I think it has been taken for granted that multiculturalism have not had any complaints about it come to my is very cheap. This portfolio has the smallest budget in office, and I am assuming that this is because of the the state, and that has always been the case. This is very consultation that the minister did. Anything that much my concern, and later I will throw it as a strengthens its independence is something I totally challenge to the minister. support. It will have a research capacity. In the couple of minutes I have left I would like to highlight some of Allow me, however, to address my concerns with the the objectives of the commission, including to: bill. I have four areas of concern. Firstly, I will be in disagreement with the previous speaker, the member … encourage all of Victoria’s diverse communities to retain for Evelyn, who said that the minister had consulted and express their social identity and cultural inheritance and widely. Maybe he did consult about this bill before the to promote mutual respect … election as part of his campaigning, but as far as the How important it is that communities retain and express introduction of the bill to the Parliament is concerned their social identity as well as their cultural inheritance. there has hardly been any public consultation. This has been drawn to my attention by many community Some of the other objectives of the commission are to: representatives, who have been saying they missed out completely in the consultation and that therefore there … promote co-operation between bodies …

MULTICULTURAL VICTORIA BILL 2011

Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1013 has not been any awareness of this bill in the If you look at history, however, you see that in 1992 all community. the funding grants in this area were abolished. There was nil funding — zero funding — for the ethnic My second area of concern is about the splitting of the community for the whole year. It took the Kennett VMC (Victorian Multicultural Commission) and government seven miserable years — from 1992 until VOMA (the Victorian Office of Multicultural Affairs). 1999 — to increase organisational funding to its highest I am surprised that we have come full circle on this, level of $700 000. because we had problems previously. The two had been split during the coalition years. That created a lot of I bring this up because we need to look at the record of tension, rivalry and misunderstanding, because the governments; that cannot just be dismissed. Under the respective bodies, now named VOMA and the VMC, incredible leadership of George Lekakis the VMC is the were contradicting each other and were in each other’s most independent commission we have ever had. Let us way at the expense of the ethnic community. I could go look at its achievements, because the proof is in the on with that list for a long time. I just hope that this pudding. When we came to power in 1999 time the minister has got it right. organisational funding was $700 000. We increased that funding each year to more than $4 million at the My third area of concern is the so-called regional time when we lost government, which is a more than advisory councils. It may sound good on paper, but in 600 per cent increase in organisational funding alone. I practical terms we could take the example of am not talking about the ethnic precinct funding, which Shepparton, which the Deputy Speaker, who is also the was $4 million in the past year. We had made a promise member for Evelyn, spoke about when she was on her of another $12 million if we came back to government, feet. The regional Ethnic Council of Shepparton and but that is history now. Let us look at the figures and at District is a giant in its own right. It is a very powerful the achievements. Labor can walk tall so far as its body with very active and committed people, and it achievements in multiculturalism are concerned, and would be bewildering to them that the minister is members of the current government should not try to creating so-called regional advisory councils. They diminish that. would be attending functions and meetings and asking, ‘Who the hell are these new people appointed by the The bill will mean nothing if we do not address the minister as members of this so-called regional advisory concerns of the community. As I mentioned, the council in our area?’. This is creating unnecessary $4 million is nothing, because the VMC is part of the misunderstanding and rivalry in terms of policy input Department of Planning and Community Development, and involvement in a whole range of multiculturalism which dishes out more than $400 million a year to the areas. wider community, of which the VMC receives only a miserable 1 per cent. The fourth area of my concern with the bill is that the minister mentioned that some research would be done. Artistic groups in my community and throughout This is ironic. In 1992, when the coalition came to Melbourne and Victoria cannot get any money, whether power — I say this with the utmost respect to the they be an elderly Turkish group that performs classical minister at the table, and this pertains to him not as a dance on stage or a Chinese operatic group or other member of Parliament or as a minister but as what he groups that want to apply for small amounts of funding was at the time, the most senior adviser to the then to, for example, get costumes so they can dance in their Premier, Jeff Kennett — the whole — — national dress. If they go to the VMC, they are told, ‘We don’t have money for that kind of thing. Go to the Mr Kotsiras interjected. arts ministry’. That ministry says, ‘No, you are migrants. You are multicultural. You should go to the Mr LIM — You want to hear this. In 1992 a whole VMC’. So they end up with nothing. These people ask department of the Victorian Ethnic Affairs me, ‘Why is it that we fund the opera, the ballet and the Commission, the equivalent then of what is now the symphony orchestra to the tune of millions and millions VMC, a department with more than 60 full-time staff, of dollars? Why are the rich getting richer and being was abolished overnight. That department had an entire subsidised with millions of dollars?’. My groups cannot complement of research staff, and it was abolished. even get money for their costumes. They pay the same This bill will not mean anything if it constitutes taxes, and when they are older they want to have the window-dressing changes or if the minister is not satisfaction of reviving their culture. That is the kind of serious about the ethnic community. I hope he is. I issue the minister needs to address. personally have enormous respect for him because of his commitment to his portfolio area.

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A previous speaker talked about the needs of newly of the advisory councils and have a say in the service arrived migrants, bearing in mind that Victoria takes delivery that is provided in those areas. 30 per cent of all migrants who come to this country. The attractiveness of Victoria as a multicultural centre The Morwell electorate — the Latrobe Valley and is beyond question, and therefore unless in this new age wider Gippsland — has very strong links with we rise up to the challenge, the bill will mean nothing. I migrants. Indeed the very foundations of the Latrobe hope the minister takes these concerns into account, and Valley in some respects have been built by migrants to that he responds meaningfully and effectively. I hope this great country of ours. When you reflect on the the bill fulfils the minister’s intent. work ethic of migrants to this country you have to understand what they have had to endure in order to be Mr NORTHE (Morwell) — It gives me great successful, and you really appreciate their efforts. pleasure to rise to speak on the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. The bill implements the government’s When we talk in schools about the tolerance levels of election commitment to restructure and strengthen the people who come from other countries it is a really multicultural affairs and citizenship portfolio. Members good analogy to draw for students, who might have from both sides of the house have commended the been born in Australia, to say, ‘Have a think about the responsible minister. He was very active when a difficulties associated with moving school. Then maybe shadow minister and still is as a minister. I can certainly think about the difficulties associated with moving to a attest that we enjoy his visits to the Latrobe Valley and different town, and then think of the difficulties wider Gippsland, and we look forward to his work in associated with moving interstate. Then really ponder the future. the notion of coming to a completely different country’. For that I admire our migrants, and there are many The bill seeks to establish the principles of people who have come from different countries who multiculturalism. It also establishes the Victorian are now members of Parliament in this place. My Multicultural Commission and the regional advisory admiration for them is immense, because they have councils, which I will speak about a little further into experienced many challenges, and in many cases they my contribution. It establishes the reporting have come from countries where they did not enjoy the requirements for the commission and for government privileges we have here in Australia. departments in relation to service delivery. As one considers the profile of Latrobe city and the I refer to part 4 of the bill in relation to the regional Latrobe Valley you get some sense of the strength of advisory councils. Clause 22(1) establishes eight multiculturalism and the contribution made by migrants regional advisory councils for the regional areas of the to our region. In 2006 census data we see that of a state. This element of the bill enjoys widespread population of approximately 69 000 nearly 10 000 were support, not only from migrant community groups in born overseas. That gives some indication of the our region but also from those who provide services to strength of multiculturalism and migrant groups within migrants in our region. They feel this is an important the city of Latrobe. aspect of the bill which will allow those who settle in regional Victoria and provide services to migrants to Recently I had the pleasure of assisting the minister have a say at the table. with respect to some grants through the Victorian Multicultural Commission’s community grants Clause 23 details the functions of the regional advisory program. A number of my local groups were councils with respect to providing advice to the beneficiaries of that important program, which is an commission. Clause 24 details the constitution of the indication of the number of community organisations councils and their roles. It states that a council is to and groups in our region that provide such important consist of: service. It is terrific to see them recognised. They include Club Astoria; the German Australian Society; (a) a member of the Commission referred to in the Italian Catholic Federation in Morwell; the section 12(1)(e), who is to preside over the regional advisory council; and Australian Croatian Association in Gippsland; the Greek Orthodox Community of Gippsland, Elderly (b) volunteers drawn from the regional area of the State Citizens Group; the International Women’s Group; the covered by the regional advisory council. Morwell Senior Italian Citizens Club; the Polish Senior Citizen’s Club of Morwell; and the list goes on. There I reiterate the point that I think it is imperative that are a number of community organisations and groups those who reside in regional areas of Victoria are part that provide wonderful service to our community and demonstrate the diversity of the migrants in our region.

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I also want to make mention of Gippsland Multicultural many people who settle in our great country. Services, again an important organisation that assists Citizenship ceremonies are a great opportunity for us to recently arrived migrants to settle into our community. participate in the celebration of what is a special day for Without it our community would be much worse off. I them. It is an opportunity I look forward to continuing know the struggles that organisation has in terms of to have in the future. funding, support and resources. It plays a critical role within the community, and I commend Lisa Sinha and I commend the minister for the great work he did in his her team for the work they do in making life that little capacity as shadow minister for multicultural affairs bit easier for migrants settling in our region. and citizenship — a role he is continuing now as minister. I think all members of the house are as one in Another strong organisation in the Latrobe Valley is the acknowledging his efforts and commitment, which we Gippsland Ethnic Communities Council. Again, this know will continue. group consists of a number of representatives from different migrant groups across our community, who This bill is a great step in the right direction, and we play an important role within our community. For look forward to it passing through this house. example, members of the group participate in activities such as hosting and conducting the multicultural Ms THOMSON (Footscray) — I rise to contribute festival which I had the pleasure of attending recently. to the debate on the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, It was a wonderful opportunity not only for local which the opposition is not opposing. Members who residents but also for people visiting the region to attend spoke before me raised the concerns we have with this this important festival where many migrant groups bill and its separation of responsibilities back to the way were represented. They performed different dances and they were prior to the election of the Bracks and activities throughout the course of the day. This very Brumby governments, with the department being successful event has been conducted over the last five responsible for certain aspects of grant allocation and years or so. the Victorian Multicultural Commission being responsible for policy. Our concerns about that The area where this event is hosted is called Gippsland separation have been expressed by a number of Immigration Park. Groups there have done a wonderful speakers. job in constructing a wall of recognition, which is a fantastic asset to our region. I encourage all members However, I think all of us in this house celebrate the who have the opportunity of travelling through our fact that Victoria is a beacon for other states as an great region to stop and have a look at what is example of how multiculturalism can work and of how happening in that precinct. Migrants have the we have protected and valued it. That multiculturalism opportunity to place their family name on this wall of is a very delicate thing, and it does not take much to recognition to acknowledge where they have come disrupt it. It does not take much to incite hatred; it does from and when they settled in Australia. In part, the not take much to see racial tensions arise. It is important wall recognises the contribution those migrants have that there is bipartisan support for multiculturalism if it made to our community. I commend people such as is to work. There are plenty of places within Australia, Don Di Fabrizio, Maggie and Serge Auciello, Ted but more so outside Australia, where we see those Cowper and Graham Goulding for their continuing tensions heighten to a point where they break. That is work to ensure the recognition of those migrants who one thing we do not want to see in this state. have settled in our region and made such a significant It is true to say when you look at the past in both the difference. Australian and the Victorian communities that people My admiration for many migrants in our community from many countries and many ethnic backgrounds and extends to the business fraternity, and I place on record religions have played a role in forming what is now a that I think we have a lot to learn from the strong work very modern society. We can see that in the politicians ethic of people who come from other countries and just in this chamber. I was tempted to get up and say that it get on with the job of having a go. They have a go and is great to be able to join my other wog colleagues in get on with it, and they have been successful this house in debating this bill, but in truth there are businesspeople because of that attitude. Again I express many members of Parliament here who come from my admiration for them, one and all. many different backgrounds, and all of them bring a wealth of tradition and heritage to this chamber. That is In our roles as members of Parliament we have the a good thing; it is a great thing. We have also seen that opportunity of attending citizenship ceremonies on a heritage in the governors of Victoria, including our regular basis, and that is a wonderful occasion for so most recent Governor and the one who is now installed

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1016 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 in Government House. We have seen it in our asked, ‘How the hell does he attend that many governors-general. It is an incredibly rich heritage. In functions, support so many communities and make science, in mathematics, in education, in the law, in them understand how much they are valued by the sport — which of course Australians love — in music, government, the Parliament and the people of in entertainment, in the arts and in every field you can Victoria?’. I wish George Lekakis well for the future. think of and everywhere you look, the rich tapestry of He served Victoria extremely well, and he deserves a multiculturalism is threaded throughout. That is great deal of credit. We owe him a great debt for the something we should be very proud of. way in which he has helped mould multiculturalism in his time as chair of the VMC. I wish George all the best I represent a very multicultural electorate that is based in his future endeavours. on refugees, really — waves and waves of them. It is a traditional and very working-class Anglo electorate that We have heard much about the bipartisan approach to has welcomed people from many places around the multiculturalism. I hope all members will respect that world and said, ‘You can come here, you can feel free, bipartisanship. I hope individual members will think you can take part in democracy, you can take jobs, you very carefully about what they say in this place, what can participate in education and you can express your they put on websites, what they twitter in an indulgent opinion’. We welcome that. Footscray is a much richer moment and what they say in their communities, place for the people of many cultures who have come because we have a serious responsibility to foster the and made it the new and modern Footscray that it is multicultural environment. As I said at the start, now. multiculturalism is a delicate beast. It is easily broken, and we must remember that. We saw some of the I am proud of my own heritage, which involves tensions here around Indian students. We saw what it Russian and Polish Jews coming out to Australia at the could mean if we allowed it to fester. We did not; we onset of war. My mother’s parents set up an orchard in nipped it in the bud. We took care of that issue, but it is Shepparton and then moved to Carlton, which is a place still out there. There is within any community the to which a lot of Jews moved, joining with the Italians capacity for racism or ethnic hatred to rise up. I ask that and making a rich and vibrant community there. All all members, not just in this place but in the other place these people have brought a lot to Victoria and enriched as well, take very seriously the responsibility they have our lives. to foster multiculturalism. If they do not believe in it — and I know some do not — I urge them to be careful The bill creates the opportunity to see the next phase. what they say and what they play politics with, because Time will tell whether it is the right model. In truth the they do not want to wear the responsibility for the Bracks and Brumby governments did much to ensure consequences that may come with that. I am proud to that all people coming to Victoria, no matter where they be a Victorian who can travel, and has travelled, to came from — whatever their faith, the colour of their many places and talk about the multicultural nature of skin or their ethnicity — were welcomed as equals and Victoria and what it has to offer. were encouraged to play a role in the development of Victoria’s society. I pay tribute to Ahmed Kelly, who has just broken the 100-metre breaststroke world record. He is a modern We saw that with the Racial and Religious Tolerance demonstration of a young person and a beacon of Act 2001, the Equal Opportunity Act 2010 and the citizenship. He came from Iraq, has become a proud original Multicultural Victoria Act 2004 that saw the Australian and has taken on sportsmanship. He was establishment of the Victorian Multicultural born without fully developed arms, but he kept battling. Commission. He found an Australian who was prepared to adopt him I too pay tribute to George Lekakis, chair of the VMC, and bring him to Australia, enriching his experience of and all the commissioners of the VMC. They did an life. He has made all our lives richer. outstanding job in promoting multiculturalism and Debate adjourned on motion of Mr KATOS (South racial tolerance. They have served Victoria very well. I Barwon). do not think any member of this house would have gone to an ethnic community function and not either Debate adjourned until later this day. seen George Lekakis there or heard everyone talking about how he had been at the previous function that they had held. I do not think anyone could keep up his pace. I do not know how he did it. Every member of Parliament would have looked at the way he did it and

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AMENDMENT BILL 2011

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PUBLIC HOLIDAYS AMENDMENT Part-shire arrangements BILL 2011 Currently, subsection 8(4)(b) of the Public Holidays Act does not allow substitute public holiday arrangements to apply to Statement of compatibility different parts of the municipality. Instead, non-metropolitan councils are required to observe the substitute public holiday Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and across the whole of a municipal district. Small Business) tabled following statement in The new section 8A will repeal subsection 8(4)(b) and accordance with Charter of Human Rights and provide that non-metropolitan councils can request that either Responsibilities Act: the two half-day holidays, or the full-day public holiday, taken in lieu of Melbourne Cup Day, may apply to part of the In accordance with section 28 of the Charter of Human Rights municipality. The amendments will stimulate local regional and Responsibilities, I make this statement of compatibility communities by allowing them to celebrate their own with respect to the Public Holidays Amendment Bill 2011. particular shows and events in their particular part of the shire. In my opinion, the Public Holidays Amendment Bill 2011, as introduced to the Legislative Assembly, is compatible with Human rights issues the human rights protected by the charter. I base my opinion on the reasons outlined in this statement. The amendments do not engage the charter, because all Victorians will continue to receive the same net number of Overview of bill public holidays, although they may be across different days. People living in regional and metropolitan areas will receive The Public Holidays Amendment Bill 2011 seeks to allow the same number of public holidays per annum. municipalities in country Victoria to request one whole day or two half-day public holidays, in lieu of Melbourne Cup Day, Conclusion across the whole or part of a municipality. I consider that the bill is compatible with the charter because The Public Holidays Amendment Bill 2011 amends the it does not raise any human rights issues. Public Holidays Act 1993 (the Public Holidays Act) by inserting a new section 8A. The new section 8A provides that: The Hon. Louise Asher, MP Minister for Innovation, Services and Small Business Non-metropolitan councils may request one whole day or two half-day public holidays in lieu of Melbourne Second reading Cup Day; and Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and Non-metropolitan councils may request that a full-day, or two half-day substitute public holidays, taken in lieu Small Business) — I move: of Melbourne Cup Day, apply to part of a municipality. That this bill be now read a second time. Where a substitute public holiday or two substitute half-day holidays have been declared and gazetted in reference to part The Public Holidays Amendment Bill 2011 provides of a municipal district, the two substitute half-day holidays, or for non-metropolitan councils to request either one the whole-day public holiday, will only apply in that part of whole day or two half-day public holidays as a the district or municipality. All Victorians will continue to be substitute for Melbourne Cup Day. The bill also entitled to the same number of public holidays. provides that non-metropolitan councils may request Choice of two half-day public holidays or one whole-day that substitute Melbourne Cup Day holiday public holiday in lieu of Melbourne Cup Day arrangements apply to either the whole or different Currently, subsection 8(3) of the Public Holidays Act parts of their municipalities. provides that non-metropolitan councils may request in writing that the relevant minister make a declaration The bill amends the Public Holidays Act 1993 by appointing a substitute public holiday in lieu of Melbourne repealing the unnecessarily restrictive and inflexible Cup Day. However, subsection 8(5)(a) of the Public Holidays provisions enacted by the former government in 2008. Act does not allow non-metropolitan councils to request two half-day substitute holidays. Many regional shows and Cup In recent years non-metropolitan councils have not had Day events are half-day events. the flexibility to request two half-day public holidays or The new section 8A will repeal subsection 8(5)(a) and part-shire arrangements, because of those amendments provide that non-metropolitan councils may request two made by the former government. However, many half-day public holidays as a substitute for Melbourne Cup regional shows and cup day events are in fact half-day Day. Non-metropolitan councils must request either one whole day, or two half-days, to ensure that regional events, and many might be relevant to only one part of Victorians receive the equivalent of one whole public holiday a shire, such as the Speed Field Day in Buloke shire, or in lieu of Melbourne Cup Day. the Rupanyup Agricultural and Pastoral Show Day in Yarriambiack shire.

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The restrictive requirement for whole day and whole In conclusion, this bill reaffirms the government’s shire public holidays in lieu of Melbourne Cup Day commitment to regional communities by ignores the fact that some country municipalities have acknowledging their contribution to Victoria. two or more communities within their municipality and that their communities have different local show day I commend the bill to the house. and cup day arrangements. This has had negative consequences for agricultural shows and events held in Debate adjourned on motion of Ms NEVILLE regional Victoria. Many local race days and shows have (Bellarine). lost customers and turnover. Debate adjourned until Wednesday, 20 March. A greater number of agricultural shows and regional cup days across Victoria can now be more CRIMES AMENDMENT (BULLYING) appropriately celebrated. If the council so requests, the BILL 2011 Rainbow Agricultural and Pastoral Show can be celebrated in the Rainbow district of Hindmarsh, while Statement of compatibility the Jeparit Agricultural and Pastoral Show can also be celebrated in the Jeparit district of Hindmarsh. Many of Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) tabled following these types of events have simply missed out on being statement in accordance with Charter of Human celebrated in recent years. Regional councils have faced Rights and Responsibilities Act: a dilemma because they have been forced to recognise one regional event at the expense of others. In accordance with section 28 of the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities, I make this statement of compatibility Non-metropolitan councils will now have the flexibility with respect to the Crimes Amendment (Bullying) Bill 2011. they need with regard to substitute public holidays and In my opinion, the Crimes Amendment (Bullying) Bill 2011, regional Victorians, including schoolchildren, will as introduced to the Legislative Assembly, is compatible with benefit from the greater opportunities to celebrate and the human rights protected by the charter. I base my opinion attend their own local show days. on the reasons outlined in this statement. Overview of bill The government supports an equal number of public holidays for regional Victorians and residents of Human rights issues Melbourne. Importantly, the government will therefore 1. Human rights protected by the charter that are also ensure that the same number of public holidays relevant to the bill applies across Victoria. All Victorians, whether they live in regional Victoria or metropolitan Melbourne, The bill positively engages and fulfils the right to liberty and will still be entitled to 11 public holidays per annum. security of the person (section 21, charter act), freedom of movement (section 12, charter act) and the right to protection Melbourne Cup Day will continue to be the automatic from cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment (section 10, default public holiday throughout Victoria. Where charter act). substitutes are requested, non-metropolitan councils will be required to request either one whole day or two Serious bullying conduct involves repeated, socially aggressive behaviour aimed at causing another person half-days. Where a substitute public holiday or two physical or mental harm. In this way, serious bullying can substitute half-holidays have been declared and cause the victim to fear for their safety, thereby infringing on gazetted in reference to a part of a municipal district, their sense of physical security. Further, the impact of this Melbourne Cup Day continues to apply in all remaining fear can affect the victim to the point where his or her decisions and movements are impacted, thereby limiting their parts of that municipal district. freedom of movement and their liberty.

Specifically, the bill repeals the former government’s Serious bullying can affect the victim’s physical or mental unnecessarily restrictive provision of 2008 and inserts a wellbeing in a manner that may cause them serious physical new section 8A. The new section 8A(1) provides that or mental pain or suffering, humiliation and/or debasement. This is a serious breach of a victim’s right to protection from non-metropolitan councils may request either two cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment. It is not necessary for half-day public holidays or one whole day public the harm to be intentionally inflicted in order for this right to holiday in lieu of Melbourne Cup Day. Section 8A(1) be violated. That right is violated by serious bullying conduct also provides that a non-metropolitan council may that diminishes a person’s dignity and causes feelings of fear, request that the substitute public holiday arrangements anguish or inferiority capable of breaking a person’s moral and physical resistance. apply to all or part of that council’s municipal district. By ensuring that serious bullying conduct is recognised as an indictable offence, the amendments in the bill will protect

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these rights. The bill aims to deter such conduct in the shopping centres. This wide range of potential bullying community by providing that where such conduct occurs, it situations demands that a wide range of responses is will be charged and punished under the criminal law. available. 2. Freedom of speech These responses sit in a hierarchy. Bullying conduct in The bill prevents abusive or offensive words or acts in the the workplace is normally prosecuted and punished presence of a victim where that conduct is intended to cause under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004. If, harm (or the accused knew or ought to have understood that the conduct would have that effect). however, the conduct and consequences of the bullying behaviour are extremely serious, the bill provides Explicit in the section 15 right to freedom of expression is the another response — that of prosecution under the statement that ‘[s]pecial duties and responsibilities are Crimes Act for the offence of stalking. attached to the right of freedom of expression and the right may be subject to lawful restrictions reasonably necessary to respect the rights and reputation of other persons …’. In September 2006, Brodie Panlock, a young 19-year-old woman with her life before her, tragically Whilst the amendment may engage the section 15 right, it is a ended her life after enduring a persistent campaign of lawful restriction to freedom of speech consistent with appalling bullying. Her death was a tragic reminder of section 15(3), necessary to protect the rights of victims. the serious consequences that bullying can have on The purpose of the restriction is necessary to ensure the victims, their families and the community. respect and protection of a victim’s rights to liberty and security, movement and protection from cruel, inhuman or This tragedy was compounded by the fact that none of degrading treatment. those responsible for the bullying was charged with a The bill limits only offensive words or acts which are serious criminal offence under the Crimes Act. Instead, intended to (or which the person ought to have understood each offender was convicted and fined under provisions would be likely to) cause physical or mental harm in the of the Occupational Health and Safety Act. While that victim, or arouse fear or apprehension in the victim for their act has an important role in addressing significant safety or that of another person. workplace issues, this case demonstrates that the worst In this very limited situation, the rights of all members of the cases of serious bullying demand redress through the community to liberty and security, movement and protection criminal law. from cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment should prevail over the right of the accused to free expression. The government has therefore resolved to act swiftly Conclusion and effectively to address this issue. In my opinion, the Crimes Amendment (Bullying) Bill 2011, As part of its commitment to community safety, the as introduced to the Legislative Assembly, is compatible with government will strengthen the criminal law to ensure the human rights protected by the charter act. that bullying, be it in the workplace or elsewhere in the Robert Clark, MP community, is treated with the seriousness it deserves. Attorney-General The bill offers protection to people who have been bullied and provides serious consequences for those Second reading who engage in serious bullying conduct where they Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) — I move: intend to cause harm or fear, or should have known that their actions would be likely to have that result. That this bill be now read a second time. The current stalking provisions in the Crimes Act The government is committed to addressing serious provide that a person stalks another if he or she engages bullying in the community. The bill honours this in any course of conduct with the intention of causing commitment by strengthening the law of stalking to physical or mental harm to another, or the intention of cover the full range of serious bullying. arousing apprehension or fear in the victim.

Bullying is a term widely used to refer to conduct In order to ensure that serious bullying behaviour is involving repeated verbal, physical, social or clearly dealt with by the Crimes Act, the bill amends psychological attacks upon a person that causes the the current stalking provisions in four key ways. victim distress at the time and into the future because of fear of further occurrences. First, the bill makes clear that threats and abusive and offensive words or acts may form part of the course of Bullying can be committed by people of different ages, bullying conduct. in a variety of ways and in a variety of situations including workplaces, schools, sports clubs and

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Second, the bill broadens the description of a ‘course of now clearly punishable by up to 10 years conduct’ to include any conduct that could reasonably imprisonment. By strengthening the Crimes Act 1958 be expected to cause the victim to physically harm in this way, the bill affirms the government’s themselves. While it is clear that the current provision commitment to promoting community safety and will apply to conduct causing a victim to fear harm at reducing crime. the hands of the perpetrator, it is not clear whether it extends to conduct which causes a person to harm I commend the bill to the house. themselves. This amendment is necessary to make clear that the offence extends to conduct which causes a Debate adjourned on motion of Mr WYNNE victim to engage in self-harm. (Richmond).

Third, the bill provides that the fault element includes Debate adjourned until Wednesday, 20 April. the intention to cause the victim to physically harm themselves. Under the existing provisions, it is unclear FAMILY VIOLENCE PROTECTION whether the intention to cause harm extends to cover an AMENDMENT (SAFETY NOTICES) intention to cause the victim to harm themselves. The bill will resolve this uncertainty and make clear that the BILL 2011 requisite intention for stalking includes the intention to Statement of compatibility cause a person to harm themselves. Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) tabled following Fourth, the bill expressly provides that, for the purposes statement in accordance with Charter of Human of this offence, mental harm includes psychological Rights and Responsibilities Act: harm and causing a victim to engage in suicidal thoughts. Currently, the term ‘mental harm’ is not In accordance with section 28 of the Charter of Human Rights defined. Bullying is behaviour that is calculated to and Responsibilities, I make this statement of compatibility cause mental harm to others. The behaviour often with respect to the Family Violence Protection Amendment (Safety Notices) Bill 2011. results in a victim suffering from a sense of powerlessness and despair. In some cases, the distress In my opinion, the Family Violence Protection Amendment bullying causes its victims is so severe that it causes the (Safety Notices) Bill 2011, as introduced to the Legislative victim to engage in suicidal thoughts. The bill therefore Assembly, is compatible with the human rights protected by the charter. I base my opinion on the reasons outlined in this makes clear that mental harm includes psychological statement. harm and causing a victim to have suicidal thoughts. Overview of bill In addition to enabling prosecution under the Crimes The bill repeals the sunset provision for family violence Act 1958 for serious bullying that has already occurred, safety notices (FVSNs). It also clarifies the power of the the bill allows steps to be taken to prevent serious Magistrates Court in relation to adjournment of intervention bullying through the use of intervention orders. If order applications brought by way of FVSN and the power of satisfied that an applicant is being seriously bullied and the Magistrates Court to make intervention orders where the that it is likely to continue, the Magistrates Court can protected person does not consent to the making of the application by police and/or the order by the court. issue an intervention order under the Stalking Intervention Orders Act 2008 to quickly address the Family violence safety notices were introduced in 2008 and ongoing conduct and prevent it from continuing. allow police to impose short-term protective conditions after Breach of the intervention order can be charged as a hours for victims of family violence, pending further hearing by a court. These police issued FVSNs have a maximum separate criminal offence. length of 72 hours, and must be returned to a court within that time. The provisions were designed to sunset so that FVSNs Everyone has the right to feel safe in our community. could be trialled and evaluated. No one should be forced to endure the fear and degradation of persistent bullying. No family should be Human rights issues forced to grieve the loss of a child resulting from the There are a number of human rights engaged by the bill. Prior cowardly acts of bullies. to analysing the rights in detail I wish to make the following general comment. This bill sends the strong signal to would-be offenders The key purpose of the bill is to ensure that victims of family that the government will not tolerate bullying violence, mostly women and children, are afforded effective behaviour. Where serious bullying behaviour occurs it protection both within and outside the family home. I believe will be charged and punished with the full force and the bill achieves this through embedding FVSNs as an option stigma of the criminal law. Serious bullying conduct is available to police when responding to incidents of family violence, and clarifying the powers of the Magistrates Court

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in relation to adjournment of and consent to applications for violence, the real risk of irreparable harm or threat to life of family violence intervention orders. affected family members and the limited duration of FVSNs.

Clauses 3 and 4 Clauses 6, 7, 8 and 9

Clauses 3 and 4 clarify the court’s power to adjourn Clauses 6 through 9 of the bill clarify the court’s power to applications for family violence intervention orders make or amend a limited intervention order where the commenced by way of a FVSN. application brought by police and/or the court’s order is not consented to by the protected person. The clause also clarifies In clarifying the court’s power to adjourn applications that if a child(ren) is also on the application with an adult who commenced in this way a number of rights may be limited is not consenting to the application and/or the order, the court including the protection of families and children (s 17) and can still make a limited order. The court’s power to make or the right to liberty and security of the person (s 21). These amend an order engages the right to liberty and security of the rights may be limited as affected family members may be person (s 21). This right is engaged as an intervention order placed in a position where they are without protection may be made where the affected family member does not between the end of the FVSN and the court’s final consent to the making of the order. The right is limited determination of the intervention order application, thereby because the court is placing conditions on the way the potentially exposing them to the family violence the FVSN affected family member lives their life that have not been was issued to limit. consented to. Any limitation which may be placed on this right is, however, balanced by the right to protection of This limitation is considered reasonable as the adjournment of families and children (s 17) as the limitation is designed to the family violence intervention order application may be due protect children from the effects of family violence whilst to the court requiring clarification or further evidence on recognising the importance of minimising disruption to the which to make a final determination, or the failure of the child(ren)’s relationship with the respondent parent and parties to attend the hearing. In addition without clarification maintaining contact between parents and their children where of the power to adjourn, the court, faced with insufficient possible. evidence at the first hearing, may strike out the application without any further consideration of the protective needs of If the court is concerned that a child will not be appropriately the affected family members, thereby leaving them protected by the limited order, then the court can make an completely exposed to a recurrence of family violence. This intervention order to protect the child on its own initiative limitation is also balanced by the respondent’s right to a fair under s 77 of the act. hearing (s 24) because if they are unable to attend the first hearing an intervention order may be made against them Conclusion without being given the opportunity to present their case. I consider that the bill is compatible with the Charter of As such the limitations are considered reasonable taking into Human Rights and Responsibilities Act because, to the extent account the reasons of magistrates for adjourning hearings that some provisions may limit human rights, those and the rights of the respondent. limitations are reasonable and demonstrably justified in a free and democratic society. Clause 5 Robert Clark, MP Clause 5 of the bill repeals section 41 of the Family Violence Attorney-General Protection Act 2008 (the act), thereby embedding FVSNs as one of the suite of options available to police when Second reading responding to incidents of family violence. Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) — I move: Preservation of the FVSN regime assists in ensuring that affected family members receive effective protection from That this bill be now read a second time. family violence after hours, on weekends and during public holidays. This protection afforded by FVSNs enhances a number of rights including the right to life (s 9), freedom Reports of family violence in our community are from inhumane or degrading treatment (s 10), the protection continuing to increase. During 2009–10, police of families and children (s 17) and the right to liberty and responded to over 35 000 incidents of family violence, security of the person (s 21). Family violence safety notices a 5.4 per cent increase on the previous year. Women enhance the protection of these rights through, for example, and children suffer the most from the effects of family offering affected family members immediate protection from family violence thereby allowing them a greater opportunity violence. Women are over three times more likely to be to live a life free from family violence and the threat or fear of victims of family violence than men and around one in family violence. four children have witnessed family violence. As a society we have a responsibility to ensure that women Preservation of FVSNs will continue to place limitations on some rights of the respondent including the right to privacy and children are able to live a life free from violence, (s 13) and property rights (s 20), for example, through both within and outside the family home. imposing a condition excluding the respondent from the family home for a period of up to 72 hours. Whilst the In November 2003 the opposition released a policy to respondent’s rights may be limited through the imposition of give greater protection to women and children who conditions on the FVSN, these limitations are considered reasonable taking into account the seriousness of family were the victims of family violence. The policy provided for on-the-spot interim intervention orders for

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1022 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 up to 72 hours in circumstances where victims required In addition to embedding the family violence safety immediate protection from the perpetrator of family notice regime, the bill clarifies the Magistrates Court violence. powers in relation to two provisions.

It was not until the introduction of the Family Violence First, magistrates have the power to adjourn Protection Act 2008 that the then government accepted applications for intervention orders commenced by way the merits of the opposition’s position on the need for of family violence safety notice where no interim or immediate protection measures for victims of family final intervention order is made on the first hearing violence when they introduced similar provisions called date. This confirms that where the court is faced with family violence safety notices. The opposition parties insufficient evidence at the first hearing, the court has supported the introduction of family violence safety the ability to adjourn the application to a later hearing notices, but were disappointed that they were only date, allowing the parties time to gather the required introduced as a trial, pending the outcome of an evidence and attend court. The ability to adjourn evaluation. hearings in this way ensures that applications are not struck out without further consideration of the The family violence safety notice provisions introduced requirement for additional protection from family in 2008: violence for the affected family members.

provide immediate safety for victims and their Second, under current law, police can make an children; application for a family violence intervention order to protect a victim of family violence even if that person can include a condition to exclude a violent party does not consent to the police taking that action. The from the home; amendment simply confirms that when police bring act as an application to the Magistrates Court of these applications, with or without the consent of the Victoria for a family violence intervention order; affected family member, if the affected family member does not consent to the court making the order, the act as a summons to attend court; and court can still make a limited order that protects the affected family member but does not necessarily affect must be returned to court for review within 72 hours the living arrangements of the parties.

The evaluation has now occurred and has clearly Where there is a police application for making or demonstrated the contribution of family violence safety amending a single intervention order that protects an notices to protecting victims of family violence. The adult and a child(ren), the amendment confirms that the evaluation found that family violence safety notices: court may still make a limited order in circumstances where the adult does not consent to the making or contributed to an improved after hours response to amending of the order. incidents of family violence; The amendments to section 75 of the act maintain the led to an increase in civil actions taken against existing balance between providing protection and perpetrators of family violence; respecting the wishes of the affected family members throughout the intervention order process, from improved victim safety by removing the burden of application to the making of a final order. This balance decision making from the affected family member to is of particular importance as very often the affected the police; and family member, whilst recognising they may require increased perpetrator accountability by providing a protection, will not seek an intervention order for fear clear and immediate message that family violence is of retribution from the perpetrator. The complex nature unacceptable. and dynamics of family violence are such that often even where the affected family member does have the Through the introduction of this bill the government is courage to initiate a family violence intervention order, ensuring that family violence safety notices are or to support the police to apply on their behalf, they embedded as one of a suite of options available to may be pressured by the perpetrator into withdrawing police when responding to incidents of family violence or opposing the application. The amendments confirm to ensure that women and children are afforded a that police and the courts have the power to take greater level of protection from family violence. protective action for those who may not have the capacity to act in their own interests and afford affected

DENTAL HOSPITAL LAND BILL 2011

Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1023 family members protection under the Family Violence the bill. The only property right in existence at the Parkville Protection Act 2008. site is a lease, which is expressly preserved by clause 5 of the bill.

Finally the bill amends sections of the Personal Safety Conclusion Intervention Orders Act 2010. The Personal Safety Intervention Orders Act 2010 provides courts the power I consider that this bill is compatible with the Charter of to make intervention orders in circumstances that do Human Rights and Responsibilities. not involve family violence. To ensure consistency and Ryan Smith, MP clarity for the police and courts, provisions relating to Minister for Environment and Climate Change intervention orders in the both Family Violence Minister for Youth Affairs Protection Act 2008 and the Personal Safety Second reading Intervention Orders Act 2010 are procedurally identical. Amendments will be made to the Personal Mr R. SMITH (Minister for Environment and Safety Intervention Orders Act 2010 for intervention Climate Change) — I move: orders where the affected person does not consent to an application brought by police or the court making or That this bill be now read a second time. amending the order. This will ensure continued The purpose of this bill is to facilitate construction of consistency between the two acts. the new Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre on the I commend the bill to the house. former site of the Royal Dental Hospital in Parkville.

Debate adjourned on motion of Mr WYNNE Cancer is the greatest cause of mortality in Victoria and (Richmond). its impacts on the community are significant. The care of cancer patients represents a significant proportion of Debate adjourned until Wednesday, 20 April. all health care delivered in Victoria. This government is committed to funding and supporting cancer services for the benefit of Victorians. DENTAL HOSPITAL LAND BILL 2011 The Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre will Statement of compatibility provide a world-class centre of excellence for the research and treatment of cancer. It will bring together Mr R. SMITH (Minister for Environment and recognised leaders in cancer research, clinical services, Climate Change) tabled following statement in education and training — including the Peter accordance with Charter of Human Rights and MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne Health (which Responsibilities Act: includes the Royal Melbourne Hospital), the University In accordance with section 28 of the Charter of Human Rights of Melbourne, the Parkville branch of the Ludwig and Responsibilities, I make this statement of compatibility Institute for Cancer Research Melbourne, the Walter with respect to the Dental Hospital Land Bill 2011 (the bill). and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, the Royal Women’s Hospital and the Royal Children’s Hospital. In my opinion, the bill, as introduced to the Legislative Assembly, is compatible with the human rights protected by the charter. I base my opinion on the reasons outlined in this The fundamental objective of the Victorian statement. Comprehensive Cancer Centre is to reduce the burden of cancer. This will be achieved through the Overview of bill collaboration of recognised leaders in the delivery of The purpose of the bill is to facilitate construction of the new clinical services to cancer patients, through an increased Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre at 711 Elizabeth investment in biomedical research and through the Street, Parkville, by revoking the current permanent translation of innovative research discoveries into reservation of the site as a dental hospital and dental school. clinical practice and care. This collaborative approach Human rights issues will facilitate the continued education and training of current and future cancer clinicians and researchers, 1. Human rights protected by the charter that are ensuring that Victoria retains a strong specialist cancer relevant to the bill workforce. Property rights The Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre will Section 20 of the charter protects against deprivation of benefit all Victorians, providing services and treatment property other than according to law. This bill does not to patients from rural and regional parts of Victoria. In engage section 20 because no property rights are affected by addition the procurement, design, construction and

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1024 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 operation phases of the project will result in significant My parents come from a Greek background so I have industry participation, employment and skills firsthand experience with multiculturalism. My father development. migrated to Australia in 1949 and my mother followed in 1956, so they have been in Australia for well over Both the Victorian and commonwealth governments 50 years. They migrated to Australia from their have committed substantial funding to the development war-ravaged homeland. Greece was in tatters after the of the Victorian Comprehensive Cancer Centre, along Second World War and a civil war that saw the with contributions from other sources. Projected communist forces defeated by the nationalists. My funding for the project is estimated at $1 billion. This parents came to Australia seeking freedom and represents a significant investment in the health and opportunity, which is something that at times we take wellbeing of Victorians. for granted. They sought freedom and opportunity in a new land halfway around the globe, some The Parkville site on which the Victorian 15 000 kilometres from their homeland. Through hard Comprehensive Cancer Centre will be developed is work and determination my father created a successful permanently reserved for use as a dental hospital and small business. My parents integrated into the dental school. This bill will remove the current Australian community, but at the same time they never permanent reservation over the site in order to facilitate forgot their homeland, their language or their traditions. use of the site for more general health purposes, enabling construction of the Victorian Comprehensive We should celebrate different cultural traditions, Cancer Centre to commence. The bill also makes religions and customs and draw on this diversity to consequential amendments to the Royal Melbourne enhance our great state of Victoria. I recently had the Hospital Act 1935 to remove spent provisions pleasure of attending Greek national day celebrations associated with the site. twice, if that can be done. The first celebration was at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance. The Premier, the This bill will enable the development of a world-class Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship, the comprehensive centre for the research and treatment of Leader of the Opposition and also the member for cancer, facilitating a collaborative approach to fighting Dandenong were there — it was a very bipartisan cancer and reducing its impact on the community. group. It was fantastic to see that the crowds celebrating I commend the bill to the house. Greek national day were up by over 20 per cent on the previous year. Last Sunday I had the pleasure of Debate adjourned on motion of Mr WYNNE attending the Greek national day celebration in my (Richmond). community of Geelong. It is good to see people, while integrating into our country, still celebrating their Debate adjourned until Wednesday, 20 April. traditions.

Sitting suspended 6.33 p.m. until 8.01 p.m. Food is one of the best examples of how this integration has taken place and how these cultures are celebrated. After my father came to Australia he spent nearly all of MULTICULTURAL VICTORIA BILL 2011 his life in Geelong apart from a very small stint in Bendigo. When he went to cafes pretty much all he had Second reading to choose from was steak and eggs, roast lamb or lamb Debate resumed from earlier this day; motion of shanks. That was the menu of most cafes in the late Mr KOTSIRAS (Minister for Multicultural Affairs 1940s and early 1950s. If you walk down Lygon Street and Citizenship). in Carlton or Pakington Street in Geelong, you can now see the diversity of culture on display with all the Mr KATOS (South Barwon) — It gives me great different foods. People take it for granted now; it is a pleasure to rise this evening to discuss the Multicultural normal part of everyday life and everyday food. It is a Victoria Bill 2011. The Victorian population includes great example of how multiple cultures have integrated people from over 150 cultural backgrounds who speak into Australia. over 130 languages. Victoria and Australia are often referred to in Europe and other parts of the world in One thing that is very important — and I believe it is relation to how well people from diverse cultural the ultimate goal of multiculturalism — is that those backgrounds are able to live and work together in a who come here from other countries should become harmonious way. The bill seeks to enhance and citizens of our country. That is one of the most strengthen multiculturalism in Victoria. important things that can happen. Both of my parents became Australian citizens and integrated very well

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1025 into Australia, but at the same time they have never The commission structure will largely remain forgotten their roots and traditions. I believe the main unchanged. It will consist of 12 members. There will be role of multiculturalism is to encourage citizenship. a full-time chair, a part-time deputy chair and eight other part-time members. The difference here, though, The bill before us seeks to strengthen the multicultural is the other two members of the commission: there will affairs and citizenship portfolio and set out the broad be a youth representative aged between 18 and 24 years purposes of the Victorian Multicultural Commission. It and a member of a community organisation which is establishes the principles of multiculturalism and representative of ethnic groups. All current eligible provides for the establishment of the Victorian members will be able to reapply for their positions Multicultural Commission. The independence of the unless they have already done three terms, which would commission will be increased via new legislative and make them ineligible to continue — as is the case with administrative arrangements. The independence of the most boards and commissions. The eight regional commission is critical. In the past governments from advisory councils will be chaired by a part-time the other side of the house have used ethnic groups and commissioner with the support of the commission’s these sorts of commissions to gain access to those office. groups for political purposes, but the main reason for the commission should be to celebrate cultural diversity This bill will implement the government’s election and encourage citizenship. As was pointed out earlier in commitment by strengthening the independence and the debate, at one stage 8 out of 12 members of the membership of the commission. It will also empower commission were ALP members. To my way of the commission to report to the minister on matters thinking that was no accident. relating to its objectives. The creation of stronger links between government and diverse communities will also That is why I believe it is critical that the multicultural be a key part of the bill. I commend it to the house. commission be at arms length from the government. The commission should advise the minister; it should Mr PERERA (Cranbourne) — I wish to make a not take advice from the minister. The commission’s few comments on the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. role is to advise the minister on the best course of The opposition, as we all know, does not oppose the action. The commission’s purpose should be to bill. The bill will dismantle the existing Victorian strengthen multiculturalism and citizenship, and it Multicultural Commission and create a new should not be used — as I have seen in my experience multicultural commission under the guise of as a local councillor in Geelong — — strengthening the new VMC and making it a more independent statutory authority. The policy and Mr Eren — As a Labor councillor? administrative functions which were under the VMC will be transferred to the new Office of Multicultural Mr KATOS — The member for Lara forgets that I Affairs and Citizenship, which is a minute part of the was a councillor representing Deakin ward on the City huge Department of Premier and Cabinet. It will be a of Greater Geelong. I saw firsthand how multicultural very small fish in a very big pond and will therefore run affairs were used to gain access to groups. This access the risk of losing funding or not securing adequate was used not just for the recruitment of members to the incremental funding. When Labor came to office in ALP but in some instances, I believe, to branch stack. It 1999 the VMC multicultural community grants were was certainly used for purposes other than promoting worth $750 000 per year. When Labor left office that multicultural affairs and diversity. figure was over $5.5 million for the period of 11 years.

The bill also establishes the reporting requirements of The Baillieu-Ryan Liberal-Nationals government has the commission and of government departments with redefined the word ‘strengthening’. The stripping of respect to service delivery to diverse communities. most of its important policy functions are defined in the Eight new regional advisory councils — three in bill as strengthening the VMC. If an organisation loses metropolitan Melbourne and five in country Victoria — some of its core functions, it can easily be more will be established and will create a situation where independent because it is not interacting with other what is happening on the ground locally will be fed entities. Words such as ‘strengthening’ and back to the minister. This advice will be given back to ‘independence’ are used to confuse and mislead people the minister and he — in this case, he — will have and eventually to justify the dismantling of the VMC firsthand knowledge of what is going on locally on the and the establishment of the weakened form of the ground. commission. I have not seen any documentation or statement in relation to any type of consultation that might have justified the stripping of powers from the

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VMC. There is no logical argument for stripping those not taking direct responsibility for multicultural affairs. powers from the VMC. No government spin can overcome that disdainful approach. Feedback has been sought by the government from a range of stakeholders, including the Ethnic The Premier has increased the number of cabinet Communities Council of Victoria. Those stakeholders members by two to create a small portfolio for one of have expressed some concerns about the lack of his cabinet members. To add some muscle to this consultation undertaken by the government. portfolio the government has stripped the policy and administrative functions from the VMC and placed Mr Kotsiras — Who were they? Name them. them under the Department of Premier and Cabinet, which comes under the direct responsibility of the Mr PERERA — The Ethnic Communities Council minister. The minister with the portfolio of of Victoria. multicultural affairs and citizenship would probably Mr Kotsiras — They haven’t said anything to me. carry a workload similar to that of the current chair of the Victorian Multicultural Commission. Mr PERERA — I understand they have. On page 3 of the Victorian Liberal-Nationals coalition’s Nowhere in the second-reading speech does it say that policy and plans document for the 2010 election it says: the current VMC is broken and dysfunctional. Why fix … Labor did nothing until the public disquiet in Victoria and it if it is not broken? There was no election India began to draw strong public and media attention and commitment by the Liberal Party to strip those condemnation, including from the Indian government. independent functions from the VMC. It is a common secret that the Premier and other Are these jobs for mates? Is that the hidden agenda of members of the current government gave their this exercise? Why was the chair of the VMC moved blessings to those who carried out the protest against on as soon as the government came into office? Will the Brumby government to make it very unpopular. the existing commissioners be reappointed? In general They gave their blessings to those who ran scare the commissioners of the VMC and in particular the campaigns in Victoria and in India, making Victoria the former chair of the commission were well regarded worst place to study, holiday and do business. within the Victorian culturally diverse community. It is a fact that the Federation of Indian Associations of One of the largest ethnic organisations in Victoria is the Victoria stated in no uncertain terms that the attacks on Federation of Indian Associations of Victoria, which is Indian students were opportunistic, with the students very familiar to the minister. The FIAV is the peak being in the wrong place at the wrong time and that the body of 28 Indian community organisations. More than majority of the attacks were not racially motivated. 25 other Indian subcontinent-based entities such as They pleaded with the troublemakers not to go ahead dancing groups et cetera have affiliated with the FIAV. with those activities because they harm Victoria in Members of the federation have mentioned to me that general and the Victorian Indian community in had it not been for the support of George Lekakis and particular. The then Leader of the Opposition, who is the Victorian Multicultural Commission, they may not now the Premier, addressed a protest rally to gain cheap have been able to deliver half the community programs political advantage, damaging the image of Victoria. they have proudly carried on in the past. This is the man who was got rid of by the Minister for Multicultural Is it not a fact that Mr Baillieu and other senior Affairs and Citizenship. members of the then Liberal opposition were aware of the meetings taking place at the Australian Learning In the past 18 years under governments of both political Training and Education Centre to organise the persuasions the Premier, including former Premier Jeff taxidriver protest that would bring disrepute to Kennett, took the ministerial responsibilities for Victoria? Is it not a fact that the person who organised multicultural affairs. To my memory this is the first the taxidriver protest was a member of the Liberal Party time in 18 years that a Premier has not taken the who had the blessing of Mr Baillieu to seek multicultural affairs portfolio directly under his wing. preselection for a very marginal Labor seat? Probably In past years there was a minister assisting the Premier the majority of Liberal Party members did not want an on multicultural affairs and the independent VMC. This Indian-born person to represent the Liberal Party here combination worked very well for Victoria. It is a snub in the Victorian Parliament, therefore he lost to the people from diverse cultural backgrounds to preselection. Is it not a fact that this person was offered withdraw that support and recognition, with the Premier a job in the office of the Minister for Multicultural

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Affairs and Citizenship? Would that not be an dialects spoken in the home and 61 religions practised; endorsement of that person’s work of organising those that number includes Christian religions. One of the protests that brought disrepute to Victoria? most fulfilling parts of my role as the member for Carrum is attending citizenship ceremonies and The Baillieu government can now act as the born-again welcoming those who have chosen to join us as new custodian of multiculturalism. Its cheap political stunts Australians. This bill will ensure that the voices of these have harmed Victoria, businesses and the prospects of people are heard to a greater extent than they have been Indian students studying in Australia. These events in the past. gave the impression that some of the Indian students who work long hours and travel on late-night trains Members may have read Alan Howe’s article on the expose themselves to danger because they are Herald Sun website last week in which he emphatically struggling to make ends meet while studying here. That stated that multiculturalism has worked in Victoria impression resulted in the Australian High Commission whereas it has not in Europe. I believe he is absolutely in India putting in place stringent means-testing correct in his assertion. We are very lucky to be part of procedures when assessing the cases of potential Indian a society in which, for the most part, people accept one students. This prevented many not-so-well-off Indian another regardless of the colour of their skin, the students from entering Australia for studies. Students clothes they wear or the religion they practise. For the from well-off families were not sent to Victoria for most part Victorians generally accept that everyone has studies because their parents feared that their children the right to live their lives as they see fit, providing they could be subjected to harm. As a result of the Liberal act within the laws of this great country. Party legacy a number of education institutes either closed down or stopped expansion. Recently we have seen European leaders speak out against what they see as failed multicultural policies. The former owner of the Australian Institute of Fortunately the same cannot be said of Victoria. Education and Training told me that he had licences to Multiculturalism in Victoria can only be spoken of in take in 600 students. After this saga that number glowing terms. Multiculturalism and our diversity dropped down to 150. Eventually he had to sell the makes Victoria a great place to live. Our rich tapestry of school. nationalities is easy to see. Areas like Lygon Street, Lonsdale Street and Springvale all consist of large Please do not repeat such unsavoury negative migrant populations. Yet unlike similar areas in other campaigns — — states or countries, Anglo-Saxon Australians are welcome in these areas, with the predominant culture The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Thompson) — keen to share what they have to offer. But there is Order! The member’s time has expired. There has been always more that can be done, and this bill seeks to do a fair amount of audible conversation in the chamber. I that. It seeks to make positive changes. The bill seeks to ask that members contain the volume of their reaffirm this government’s commitment to a diverse conversation in the house. and multicultural Victoria.

Mrs BAUER (Carrum) — I rise to speak in favour The minister in his second-reading speech says: of the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. I am delighted to make a contribution to the debate. I am proud and The bill renews the principles of multiculturalism to supportive of this bill before the house. In the debate so incorporate principles of citizenship, values of a shared far tonight we have heard strong support from both commitment to Australia and to community service, and recognition of diversity as an asset for Victoria. sides of politics for the bill. This support has been illustrated in recent weeks through the establishment of It aims to do this by replacing the current Victorian many bipartisan parliamentary friends committees that Multicultural Commission with a stronger, more have been established, including friends committees independent body. Under the Multicultural Victoria Bill with China, the USA, Japan, Israel, Sri Lanka and 2011 the commission will become more independent Greece, to name a few. and will be able to provide a more accurate representation of multicultural society in Victoria. I consider myself fortunate to be part of a family that Following on from this, it will be able to provide has a wide and varied multicultural history. My family stronger links between this government and its is of Anglo-European origin, while my husband’s multicultural constituency. family is of German and Japanese origin. In my electorate of Carrum bloodlines of some Under an independent commission the only agenda will 142 nationalities are represented, with 92 languages or be ensuring Victoria’s multicultural communities get

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1028 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 the attention they deserve. When the issues confronting about our differences. If there is one thing that these these groups are not being crushed under the weight of events represent it is the contribution that immigrant spin and partisanship, they will actually be heard and cultures have played in making this state and Australia rectified. what they are today. How lucky we are to have such a broad spectrum of experiences to draw from in creating Making the Victorian Multicultural Commission our tomorrow. independent is a step that gives a clear message that our government is prepared to listen to how we can I would like to commend Minister Kotsiras for this improve the lives of those that make up our diverse Multicultural Victoria Bill. It is great legislation. It is communities. Furthermore, the commission will now consistent with coalition policy. The minister has be tasked with researching, advising and reporting to sought consultation from wide-ranging multicultural the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship. communities from all across Victoria. This bill further The commission will have the power to initiate recognises the contributions of our immigrant investigations or as a result of a request from the population, and for this reason I commend it to the minister. This bill gives the commission a purpose and house. a direction. The bill also provides for the establishment of eight regional advisory councils to represent regional Mr EREN (Lara) — It is an absolute pleasure for areas of Victoria. These councils will act as conduits of me to speak on the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. information from regional areas to the Victorian Having said that, I want to put on the record that while Multicultural Commission. we are not opposing this bill, I object to the fact that members on this side of the house particularly are being Finally, the multicultural communities in regional gagged and prevented from speaking fully on this bill. Victoria will now have a voice at the highest level. With so many different cultures contributing so much Mr Walsh interjected. to the development of regional Victoria, it is about time this happened. These regional councils will be chaired Mr EREN — It is going to be guillotined tonight — by the multicultural commission’s part-time there was a procedural motion. As the minister knows, commissioners, ensuring that the voice of the regions is the debate on the bill will be guillotined at 10 o’clock. I heard loudly and clearly at the highest level. It is want to stress to the new minister that it is a intended that these regional councils will not only dog-eat-dog world out there. You, as the minister, will provide feedback and advice to the Victorian need to fight for the portfolio of multiculturalism. Multicultural Commission from the multicultural The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Thompson) — populations of our regional areas but also promote Through the Chair, please! regional Victoria as a settling place for new migrants. Mr EREN — The Minister for Multicultural Affairs I have recently had the honour of representing the and Citizenship will need to fight to get every single Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship at a cent from the budget. Obviously — from all the couple of events, one being the Hindu Holi Festival of excuses the government is making about black holes Colours celebrations at the Shri Shiva Vishnu temple in here and black holes there and saying, ‘Boohoo, we are Carrum Downs and another being the opening of the running out of money’ and all that stuff — the minister, Dutch association of Australia’s new premises in who is in the chamber, will need to fight tooth and nail Carnegie. Both of these groups do fantastic work not to get every cent that this portfolio deserves. I wish him only for their own countrymen but for the wider all the best in that. community as a whole. I want to commend the people behind the minister in A great example of this was the presentation by the terms of the heavy duty work that goes on. Behind Hindu Society of Victoria of a $10 000 cheque for the every good minister are good bureaucrats working for Premier’s flood relief appeal effort. It was certainly an the portfolio. Hakan Akyol works hard for the portfolio honour to receive such a generous donation. of multiculturalism. Obviously through our term of I have also had the privilege of attending Aspendale government we had a lot to do with George Lekakis Gardens Primary School’s Harmony Day celebrations and Hakan. I appreciate the efforts of both in assisting on 26 March where 40 different nations were the multicultural community. represented. As I am sure many are aware, the aim of I want to put on the record some of the commitments Harmony Day is to bring people of all cultures together we made as a Labor government. People would recall to celebrate the things we have in common and to learn that back in 1999 the portfolio of multicultural affairs

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1029 had something like $750 000 allocated to it. We Debate interrupted. increased that figure to about $5.6 million. That is the challenge for the new minister: to make sure that not only is that level of funding maintained but it is actually DISTINGUISHED VISITOR increased. The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Thompson) — I am proud of the fact that we have the northern Order! Before calling the next speaker I acknowledge community hub in Geelong, which is led by Diversitat, the presence in the gallery of the former Speaker of the a fantastic organisation led by Michael Martinez, its House, the Honourable Ken Coghill. chief executive officer. I was very involved with that organisation during our term of government, and I was also active in terms of making sure that it was allocated MULTICULTURAL VICTORIA BILL 2011 $1 million. The then minister, John Thwaites, was kind Second reading enough to allocate that money, along with $1.5 million from the federal government and other moneys that Debate resumed. were collected by the organisation. We now have a fantastic facility in North Geelong in my electorate, of Mr NEWTON-BROWN (Prahran) — Before I which I am very proud. I am sure the minister will move on to some more positive comments I would like come out there and open the facility. We did all the to first respond to the disappointing politicising of this hard yards, and the minister will come out and open it. I issue by the member for Cranbourne, who made hope he mentions some of the hard work that the local reference to the Indian student situation that we had in member did in relation to establishing it. We are proud this state in recent years. The member somewhat of it. rewrote history in his comments. I draw the house’s attention to an article from the Age of 31 March 2011, I am particularly proud of it as a migrant from Turkey. I which carried the subheadline ‘Gillard Brumby remember coming here when I was very young. Dad ineffective over attacks on students’. The body of the was a fitter and turner and we came under the skilled article states: migration program. Fitters and turners were very much needed in Australia. There were two brothers — my Concerns for Indian students in Melbourne reached fever brother and me — and my mum and dad. We did it pitch in January 2010 following the stabbing death of a 21-year-old accountancy student, Nitin Garg. A visit by the tough and stayed in hostels for a little bit. We lived in then Victorian Premier, John Brumby, was ‘similarly the epicentre of multiculturalism, which is Coburg, for ineffective’ the then Victorian Treasurer, John Lenders, told a long period of time. Then we lived in high-rise Mr Thurston. commission flats and then moved to Broadmeadows. Then I made my way to Geelong. Putting that aside, multiculturalism is one issue that receives genuine bipartisan understanding and support I am very proud of those achievements. Having a in this house, of which I am proud. What makes migrant background myself I know there are trials and Australia great is that it is a true melting pot of peoples tribulations that every one of us goes through, from all around the globe. Multiculturalism has made particularly when coming to this country at a very Australia a socially and economically wealthy, stable young age. I am fortunate and privileged to be standing and tolerant country. It is a credit to our society that in this place and making this speech. It just goes to such a large variety of cultures choose to live in show that although there may be glass ceilings that Australia. They have chosen to live in this great country prevent certain people from progressing, by working because they feel welcome. They can live here hard enough anyone can achieve anything in this harmoniously. country. I will refer to a few statistics. In March 2010 Australia I know that my other colleagues would like to say a few had a population of 22.27 million people, a quarter of words on this bill, but we are being gagged by the whom were born overseas. The 2006 census showed government. We are not opposing the bill before the 45 per cent were born overseas or had one parent who house. I would have preferred the government to have was born overseas. We have over 250 ancestries consulted some more because it is a wide-ranging bill amongst us, and we speak over 200 languages. and it makes some significant changes, but under the However our country has not always been this circumstances we are supporting it. I commend the bill harmonious. The cultural harmony that we enjoy today to the house. did not always exist, and it did not come about by chance either — it is due to strong guidance from

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1030 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 politicians, state and federal, Liberal and Labor. In the 1957 non-Europeans who had lived here for 15 years early part of the last century we had the well-known could become citizens. In 1958 the controversial White Australia policy. dictation test was dropped, and the act was revised to remove references to questions of race. When it came The origins of the White Australia policy can be traced to 1959 the lack of support for the White Australia back to the 1850s, when half a million immigrants were policy really started to jell, and the immigration reform attracted to Australia, particularly to Victoria, by gold. group was founded in Melbourne. This group Their efforts largely went into assisting to build this advocated for the end of the White Australia policy. magnificent building in which we sit today. The white miners particularly resented the Chinese diggers, and In the 1960s student activism rose. My late father, Guy, violence flared up at Buckland River in Victoria and at was president of the student union at Melbourne Lambing Flat in New South Wales. As a result both the University in the 1960s, and he led the student fight Victorian and New South Wales Parliaments against the White Australia policy at that university, introduced restrictions on Chinese immigrants. Can you along with many other students throughout the country. believe that a £10 poll tax was imposed on Chinese In 1965 the Labor Party’s longstanding commitment to immigrants in 1855? This virtually stopped Chinese the White Australia policy was removed from its party immigration. It must have been an enormous amount of platform. In 1966 the White Australia policy was money back then. Similarly, Pacific Islanders worked dropped from policy. hard as labourers in Queensland. The factory workers there opposed their immigration for fear of losing their In 1973 Gough Whitlam took three further steps to jobs. remove the final barriers to dismantling the White Australia policy. Legislation was enacted to provide In 1901 the federal government passed the Immigration that all migrants of whatever origin were eligible to Restriction Act 1901. That act prohibited various obtain citizenship after three years of permanent undesirable characters from immigrating, including residence. Policy instructions were issued to overseas criminals or people with contagious diseases, but it also posts to totally disregard race as a factor in the selection prevented the immigration of people under contract to of migrants. All international agreements relating to perform manual labour, and that was the circumstance immigration and race were ratified. At the same time as of most of the South Pacific Islander labourers who introducing these laudable policies the Whitlam came to Queensland. There was a dictation test that also government reduced the overall immigration intake, so contributed to keeping non-English speakers out of the it did not result in any great influx of migrants from country. By and large community members applauded non-European countries at the time. An increase in the these policies and thought they were a good thing. number and percentage of migrants from non-European When World War I broke out immigration came to a countries took place only when the Fraser government complete halt. In 1919 Billy Hughes said that it was the came into office in 1975, which was when the great greatest thing we had achieved. waves of modern migrants entered the country.

During World War II the Prime Minister at the time, The first time the term ‘multiculturalism’ was heard John Curtin, reinforced the White Australia policy. He was in 1978. It was then formalised in the Galbally said: report that year. By the 1980s the African wave of migrants was well under way, with many coming from This country shall remain forever the home of the famine-struck Ethiopia. Channel O/28 began descendants of those people who came here in peace in order to establish in the South Seas an outpost of the British race. broadcasting and then morphed into SBS with the help of Petro Georgiou when he was working for Malcolm Many refugees entered Australia during World War II, Fraser. Today we have many skilled migrants, students but most left after the war ended. Some, however, had and family reunions — — married and wanted to stay. Arthur Calwell, our first Minister for Immigration, wanted to deport them, to Ms Graley interjected. much protest at the time. Mr NEWTON-BROWN — You will get your The first steps towards dismantling these policies came opportunity to continue the history lesson, no doubt. in 1949 under a Liberal government, when Minister Holt allowed 800 non-European refugees to stay. It has been a long road from the 1850s. Along that road Japanese war brides were also admitted. The next major political leaders eventually joined together and united in steps occurred in the 1950s. In 1955 the number of common support of multiculturalism. While many of post-war immigrants to Australia reached 1 million. In the post-war migrants were displaced by gentrification

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1031 in my own electorate of Prahran, there is still a sizeable bill. Having said that, I have some concerns regarding population of migrants who have come from all over the bill. I will go through some of them. the world. I pay particular tribute to the Greek community. Recently I had the honour of attending In my strongly held view — unless you are an Greek Independence Day, which was catered for by Jim indigenous person — we are all children of a great Pothitos from the legendary Greek Deli and Taverna on multicultural nation. Unless we are indigenous — it Chapel Street. That was a fantastic day. does not matter whether it is one generation, two generations or five generations ago — we all come I also had the pleasure of attending Holi, the Indian from somewhere else. If you went around this chamber, Festival of Colours. I never imagined when I woke up members would mention something in relation to one that morning that by lunchtime I would be covered in or two generations ago. A member might say, ‘My colour from head to toe and would be dancing in a grandfather was a Scot’ or, ‘My great-grandfather was sweaty mosh pit with the Leader of the Opposition! The Irish’. We all came from somewhere else. It is not a way that day ended demonstrated the depth of question of tolerance; it is a question of accepting that bipartisan support for our great multicultural society in we all came from somewhere else. By and large people Victoria. I commend the bill to the house. accept that.

Ms BEATTIE (Yuroke) — I thank the member for As I said, I have some concerns about the bill. Under Prahran for his history lesson. I want to touch on the previous government the Victorian Multicultural clause 1 in part 1 of the clause notes under the heading Commission worked very well. Some of the people ‘Preliminary’ which sets out to: there are very modest, but I would like to pay tribute to Hakan Akyol, who is now the acting chair of the establish the principles of multiculturalism … Victorian Multicultural Commission. He was formerly I take exception to that, because I think the principles of the deputy chair, and he does a great job. multiculturalism in this country, including this state, are In the short time I have left I would like to pay tribute very well established. I do not think we need to legislate to George Lekakis. If there was ever a champion of them, because they are already in our principles. multiculturalism it is George Lekakis — and he was so I will continue the history lesson that the member for from his earliest days. In conversations with George he Prahran gave us. I will not go so far as the member for has given me a bit of personal history. He became Dandenong in saying the Minister for Multicultural involved in multiculturalism because he was in a Affairs and Citizenship is a great friend of mine, but workplace where a woman spoke to him in Greek and there are aspects of bipartisanship that we, on this side one of the supervisors said, ‘Tell that person to stop of the house, admire. talking gibberish and speak English’. We have come a long way since then, and it is through great champions The member for Prahran talked about great leadership. like George Lekakis that we have come all that One of the instances I recall in more contemporary distance. They are people who were prepared to stand history was when Pauline Hanson, a former federal out front and say, ‘This behaviour, these words and member of Parliament, tried to make her debut in these attitudes are not acceptable in Australia, where we Melbourne and the then Premier of this state, Jeff all come from somewhere else’. So I salute George Kennett, stood up and said she was not welcome here Lekakis. and neither were her policies. I remember demonstration after demonstration being held when I turn to one of the points of the bill where I have a bit Pauline Hanson tried to bring One Nation policies to of a problem. I wish the regional councils well in their this great state, and she was rejected out of hand by deliberations, but given some of this bill’s detail about people in this state. I praise the people of the state, and I people reporting to the minister, there might be a praise former Premier Jeff Kennett for his actions then. tendency at some point in time for a minister — and obviously I am not talking about the Minister for I only wish that everybody in the Liberal Party had the Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship at the table — to same views as Jeff Kennett had on multiculturalism. seek to micromanage the VMC and interfere in its The Liberal Party went to the election with its day-to-day affairs and running. I trust that that will not multicultural policy. I am not a great fan of the ‘m’ happen. word — that is, ‘mandate’ — but people knew the Liberal Party’s policy. The Liberal Party has the right to There are many speakers on this side of the house who implement its policy so we will not be opposing this want to talk on the bill, so I will only take a moment longer. Having paid tribute to George Lekakis, I would

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1032 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 also like to pay tribute to the many VMC best serve the communities which make up this commissioners who have given so freely of their time. wonderful state. The bill demonstrates that this It has been said before that they do not do it for money government completely understands and embraces but because they have the passion for multiculturalism multiculturalism by its commitment to promoting full in this state. There are many VMC commissioners to participation of diverse communities in Victorian life. whom I pay tribute tonight, because they have been out there leading their communities, who are being guided We have heard from a number of members about by those with very safe hands. specific things that happen in their electorates and that they embrace. My electorate is no different. It has a The bill will go through the house. Labor does not large number of residents from Russian, Indian, oppose it. I have some concerns about a minister’s Chinese and South African backgrounds and a large ability to interfere with the commission’s day-to-day Jewish community. Because of this, Caulfield residents running. I would like to thank the previous ministers know first and foremost the benefits of multiculturalism who have taken the grants program from about and work strongly with the government to strengthen $750 000 to over $5 million, and I ask that that these magnificent institutions. In fact a current continue. I ask the minister at the table to argue in the commissioner of the Victorian Multicultural budget deliberations for multicultural Victoria and get Commission is from my area. those dollars increased. We are depending on the minister to support those who have gone before him This bill takes the party-political process out of and to support multicultural Victoria and relevant multiculturalism. It focuses on what the intent is: to programs, including cultural programs such as the embrace; to be holistic; and to not play party politics, cultural precincts program and various grants such as which I am sure is not what the multicultural the senior citizens grants. We are depending on the commission was ever intended to do. What was minister to take us forward into another golden year of intended with its set-up was to help people, to embrace multiculturalism. people and to get people to share their cultures and their diverse mix. That is the intent — to share the love. Mr SOUTHWICK (Caulfield) — I rise to speak on the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. I begin by This government is listening to the voice of the congratulating the minister on his terrific work in this community, not the voice of government. That is what area. Since he hit the ground running after the we need to be thinking about. It is about what people at November election he has done nothing but embrace the grassroots think, not what the government thinks or multiculturalism in Victoria. He has not stopped, and I what the previous government thought when it was am sure all the various multicultural groups in Victoria running in the race. We have taken all that away and are very grateful for the work the minister is doing. are focusing on embracing people and on sharing things in a diverse manner. We have heard from members on both sides of the house about the work they have been doing in their I would like to point out a recent controversy that various electorates. It is important that we embrace this happened in my electorate of Caulfield to show how issue, and this bill goes to extending that work. The multiculturalism can be embraced, which, I add, it is bill’s broad purpose is to establish the principles of under the current minister. We have a community multiculturalism, to establish the multicultural house in Alma Road that is designed to facilitate a commission and to establish regional advisory councils. number of activities. Recently on Friday nights a This particularly interests me. The eight regional Muslim prayer group had operated. A number of advisory councils the bill provides for will mean that people, many of whom were from outside the Caulfield people will be represented. It takes a very holistic electorate, objected to the Muslim prayer group approach to encompass multiculturalism right around operating. Due to multiculturalism being embraced Victoria. The bill also establishes proper reporting through my area, six rabbis wrote and published a requirements for government departments in relation to letter, which states: service delivery. This is important. If we are serious As religious leaders in keeping with Jewish tradition, we about this, which this side of the house is, we need to condemn all forms of racism and promote religious tolerance ensure that all the mechanisms are in place. This bill and harmony. goes far in addressing this. As a result of that, the prayer group now exists. In the This government is very much about taking a heart of Caulfield, over 30 per cent of which is made up whole-of-government approach. It is taking a of the Jewish community, there is a Muslim prayer whole-of-government approach to multiculturalism to

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1033 group as well. We in our electorate certainly embrace Lekakis, and other speakers have also mentioned him. I multiculturalism. worked with George on a number of occasions and at a number of events. People would know that my The terrific work our minister will continue to do is electorate of Narre Warren South is a rather young one. quite evident. Only last week the minister came to the It is an electorate which people have moved into mainly electorate to hand out some well-deserved cheques to a in the last 10 years. They have come from many number of great local organisations, including Italians different countries and many have had real settlement and Greeks. He was Father Christmas. People were issues, but they have settled into this country and taken lining up to receive money. It was not big money, I advantage of everything it has to offer, and they are point out, just the small amounts that make a difference making very full lives for themselves and for their and allow community organisations to go out and do children. things. They were not like the Labor Party’s cheques, because those had politics tied alongside them. We did George was absolutely terrific in supporting the groups not have any politics in ours; they were purely about the in my electorate as they started to flourish and to good work the local communities do. That is the way support their own ethnic groups. He would come and we intend to run our commission. We intend to take the talk to them and help them to access information. I have politics out and put the community back into always been impressed by his passion, his commitment multiculturalism. That is what we intend to do. and his hard work. I really thank him for everything he has done for the people of the Narre Warren South I want to finish by drawing the attention of the house to electorate. I thank him especially for the grant that a Malaysian-born Chinese woman named Marion Lau came from the Victorian Multicultural Commission last who 42 years ago moved to Australia as a young year to hold our first ever multicultural event — a big migrant. Last month Marion, who is a resident of dinner — which was an outstanding success. I will Caulfield, was inducted into the Victorian Honour Roll never forget the sight of the Afghani men dancing of Women by the Minister for Women’s Affairs. around the room and being watched by people from Marion was given this honour for her long history of India, Sri Lanka, Latin America and the Pacific Islands. working with migrant women and her work with the It was truly multiculturalism at its best in Victoria. Chinese community, the people of Victoria and the Whatever George does in the future I am sure he will Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria, of which she do with the enthusiasm he showed in his commitment was the first chair. She is one of the people who have to the Victorian Multicultural Commission, and I wish made a significant contribution to the state and, I am him luck in all his endeavours. proud to say, a significant contribution to my electorate of Caulfield. As I said earlier, I have been concerned about the bill and about the lack of consultation. I have been The residents of Victoria and the people of Caulfield informed that the Ethnic Communities Council of need no convincing about the benefits of Victoria is also concerned about that. I know the multiculturalism. This is a concept of society which has council works very hard, and I understand that forever strengthened our state and my local community. no-one — not one government representative, not the I am proud to support a bill which demonstrates our minister and no department officials — turned up at a commitment to multiculturalism and to the diverse past, meeting to discuss this bill. Either the government does present and future of the state of Victoria. I commend not know what is going on or it does not know how to the bill to the house. consult. A little bit more time and effort, as well as a bit more resourcing to get this bill into other languages, Ms GRALEY (Narre Warren South) — This would have gone a long way to allaying the fears of the evening it is a pleasure to speak on the Multicultural many people who have come to me. Victoria Bill 2011. While I will make a brief contribution, there are a number of points I wish to Mr Kotsiras — The second-reading speech is make. Victorian Labor has always had a strong translated into other languages on the webpage. commitment to multiculturalism in Victoria. Without Google! Google! reservation we have always been behind every ethnic community group, and we have encouraged everyone Ms GRALEY — They have come to my office, to be involved in making Victoria the successful, safe Minister, and actually said, ‘What is going on?’ and prosperous state that it is. Mr Kotsiras — Who? Name them! I take this opportunity to make a couple of brief points. The first is to recognise the outstanding work of George

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Ms GRALEY — I am not going to name them here, Multiculturalism is an important aspect of who we are but I will come over and see you later and tell you who in this country. As a blended group of people we have they are. travelled from many different countries, and we are a diverse mix. Cultural Diversity Week recently The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Weller) — Order! demonstrated the unity and variety that exists The member for Narre Warren South and the Minister throughout our communities. We have many examples for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship! in Victoria of how different cultural backgrounds have supported our communities and been the building Ms GRALEY — Those people were genuinely blocks of those communities. concerned. They wanted to know what was going on. This government is committed to multiculturalism, and Mr Kotsiras interjected. it is committed to initiatives that promote and Ms GRALEY — They were! encourage this diversity. Before you can promote cultural diversity you need to understand the diversity Mr Kotsiras interjected. that exists in our communities and the interaction between the different groups within the communities, Ms GRALEY — The minister is putting his head in while at the same time staying in tune with the whole the sand. community’s attitudes.

The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Weller) — Order! The bill sets out to establish the principles of The member for Narre Warren South knows it is wrong multiculturalism and create a framework for a Victorian to respond to interjections and the Minister for Multicultural Commission. It provides for the Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship knows it is wrong establishment of eight regional advisory councils. It to interject. also establishes reporting requirements for government departments in relation to service delivery for diverse Ms GRALEY — I know there are concerns in the communities and the principles of multiculturalism, and community — and concerns have been voiced on this it sets up reporting requirements for the commission. side of the chamber too, by both the member for Dandenong and the member for Yuroke — about In the Murray Valley there are many examples of making sure that this new institution will be well different cultures. In Whorouly, south of Wangaratta, funded. We know that dollars, albeit small cheques, there is an Italian community that for many years has make a huge difference to community groups. I implore been involved in the tobacco industry. The tobacco the minister to be on his game when he is in those industry has changed over time and has gone into budget discussions to ensure that all our community recess, so to speak. People like Joe LaSpina and Frank groups will be well supported, as they have been in the Primerano are members of those communities who past by the Bracks and Brumby Labor governments, have changed from growing tobacco to growing and that they will be able to enjoy the activities and capsicums, blueberries and various other niche occasions that they have always enjoyed in the past. products. The resilience that exists in these other cultures is second to none. As always I hope that everybody will continue to support multiculturalism in Victoria. Sometimes I have In the Cobram region people like Dom Siciliano and my doubts. Question time today threw a few question Ang and Frank Diaco have also used their skills in the marks up. I hope that both the minister and the fruit-growing industry. The Italians have a strong government will get behind all the ethnic groups and background in farming, and they do it very well. Even other groups out there in the community, because they members of the next generation of Italians in the region really deserve all our support for all the good work that have combined to offer large benefits for our they do. community. These people do not just coexist and live next door to one another; they share resources, work Mr McCURDY (Murray Valley) — It gives me together and build our communities. great pleasure to rise to speak on the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. I congratulate the minister for his Cobram is also home to a very strong Iraqi community leadership on this bill. I look forward to having the which for the last 10 years has been intertwining with minister in the Murray Valley to enjoy some of our the local population. A real test of how different culture in the near future. cultures come together is seen at the local football, because, as we know, for Iraqis and Italians soccer is the preferred sport. To watch junior football and see

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Italian and Iraqi kids playing with fifth generation As the member for Geelong I know that Geelong and Australians lets you know that multiculturalism is alive the greater Geelong area are made up of many and well and people are blending into our communities. ethnically diverse communities. An indication of that diversity is the Geelong Ethnic Communities Council, The Shire of Moira on the Murray River is a fantastic which is made up of representatives from something advocate for multiculturalism. During Cultural like 40 different communities and operates under the Diversity Week the shire held morning teas, and all auspices of Diversitat, which is a great organisation. I who came brought morning tea items pertaining to their take this opportunity to commend Michael Martin and country of origin and dressed in their traditional his team at Diversitat for the work they do with their costume. Countries such as Latvia, the Philippines, 40 affiliated communities. Chile, Italy, Poland, Scotland, South Africa and Papua New Guinea were all represented. Librarian Kerry Many groups have historically and significantly Currie of Yarrawonga Library said the Friends of the contributed to the establishment of Geelong. These Library had done a tremendous job organising and include the Irish, the Scottish, the Germans and the bringing together such diverse sections of the Chinese. Then of course we move into the post-World community. ‘Multiculturalism is alive and well’, she War II era, where we saw groups like the Italians, said. ‘Everyone has had a lovely time talking and Greeks, Turks, Croatians and Macedonians contribute sharing stories, and the different food people brought significantly to the community of Geelong. Now we along was just wonderful’. have seen other communities come into Geelong in the late 1990s and into the 2000s, such as the Sudanese As well as these activities local Moira shire councillors community coming out of Africa. So Geelong is very participated in the Yorta Yorta cultural insight program much a multicultural community, and I am always at the Yenbena Indigenous Training Centre in Barmah. pleased and proud to be a member of that community. The aim of this day was to increase awareness of Aboriginal culture and our Aboriginal community I speak on a regular basis about Pako Festa in Geelong, across the shire and to work together with traditional but it really does highlight Geelong as a multicultural owners. More recently cultural diversity was community. As I said in a previous speech this year, we experienced at the Numurkah town hall in a Celebrating had Pako Festa in February, when the Minister for Diversity event for the whole family which featured Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship came down and multicultural songs and dances. Rural and regional opened up the festa. I commended him at the time for Victoria has relied heavily on cooperation between his bipartisan speech in opening up the Pako Festa. As I many cultures, and we are proud of this unity. have said, we do see a real bipartisan partnership within this Parliament. Working together is what we do best, and particularly in rural and regional Victoria we need everyone, In supporting the bill I must also say that I am proud to regardless of colour, creed or country of origin, rowing have been a member of the former Bracks and Brumby in the same direction to ensure that our communities governments, which contributed enormously to this will prosper and use whatever resources are available. state as a multicultural community. As other members Multiculturalism is not just a part of our communities; have mentioned, something like $750 000 was spent by it is a fundamental building block for our next various multicultural community organisations in 1999, generations. This bill will ensure that the voices of our and in 2010 we saw something like $5.6 million spent diverse communities are better heard. Within our in the area. As I have said, I was proud to be a member communities we are taking multiculturalism seriously. of the Bracks and Brumby governments for their All of our communities will be the winners. commitment to multicultural activities in this state.

I commend this bill to the house. With those few words I would like to commend this bill to the house and wish it a speedy passage through the Mr TREZISE (Geelong) — I am very pleased to house. speak in support of this important bill before us tonight, because when it comes to multicultural issues in Mr WATT (Burwood) — Firstly I would like to Victoria we see bipartisanship in this Parliament. There congratulate the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and are two main issues on which members of this Citizenship on bringing this bill into the house. I think Parliament are bipartisan: one is road safety and the he has done a fantastic job in the short period he has other is multiculturalism. spent as minister. One of the things I would like to mention that is specifically stated in the bill is that Parliament recognises that Victorians have diverse

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1036 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 backgrounds and values and it recognises the richness communities; to promote interaction between that such diversity brings to the Victorian community. I individuals and communities from diverse groups; to think that is something that all members of this house promote the social, cultural and economic benefits of would agree with, and it is fantastic to see so many diversity; to promote the rights and responsibilities of members get up to speak on this bill, commend citizenship as a unifying force in strengthening the multiculturalism and say that they are greatly diverse multicultural community; and to promote supportive of it. community service as a principle.

Generally it is a bipartisan issue. However, it is These are all good things. Most members of the house disappointing to hear some members get up and have a would agree with all of those objectives. I am pleased bit of a gibe, because I would not have thought that this that the majority of members in this house have treated was an issue that was at all partisan. I would hope that this issue with the respect it deserves. I commend the those members who treat this as a partisan issue will bill to the house. rethink that position next time they get up to speak. Ms HALFPENNY (Thomastown) — I rise to speak This bill will increase the independence of the on the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011 and to say that commission by establishing a statutory body. The new the opposition does not oppose the bill. It is wonderful statutory body will retain the name of the Victorian to see the current government building on the great Multicultural Commission and will focus on work of the former Labor government to promote strengthening our community. I think it is a fantastic multiculturalism in Victoria. As a new member of thing to establish the further independence of the Parliament, I am still discovering the full diversity of commission. The bill will also create stronger links the communities that contribute to my electorate, but it between the government and Victoria’s diverse is clear that the strength people derive from their communities and provide a whole-of-government connections to their culture and history is a real asset. approach to multiculturalism in Victoria. As I have said, I think this is an issue that most of us would say is I have been overwhelmed by my welcome from the a good issue and an issue on which we should not be various communities in the Thomastown electorate. partisan. I appreciate the members in the house who do They have not only worked with me but also wanted to treat it as such an issue. share their cultures and the celebration of their national days and heritage. I will mention a few such events I One of the features of the bill that I would like to point have been to recently in order to highlight the out because I think it is particularly good is the diversity multicultural nature of the Thomastown electorate, and of not only multiculturalism within the community but then I will talk more about the bill. also of the regions. This is not a centralised policy; it is quite diverse in its make-up, with eight regional I have attended celebrations for the Vietnamese Lunar advisory councils as well as the inclusion of a youth New Year, the Chinese New Year and Greek commissioner and of someone from a community Independence Day, which was on 25 March. Last year organisation, which I think is a great initiative in this there was a festival in Thomastown for the Macedonian bill. I note that some people have been critical of setting national day. I have been to the Thomastown mosque. up some of the principles of multiculturalism, but I Regarding the Indian community, I attended the think enshrining those in legislation is a good thing. Darebin City Council’s Festival of Friendship and Light. Of course I also attended an event to mark The bill sets out the objectives of the commission. The Remembrance Day, which was run by the Epping promotion of full participation by Victoria’s diverse branch of the RSL. I have had talks with and attended communities in our social, cultural, economic and meetings by the Palestinian Community Association of political life is a good thing, as are the commission’s Victoria and the Khabour Chaldean Association. I even other objectives: to promote access by Victoria’s have a delegation from the Iraqi writers association diverse communities to services made available by coming to meet with me on Friday. governments and other bodies; to encourage all of Victoria’s diverse communities to retain and express It is fantastic that there has been such a promotion of their social identity and cultural inheritance and to multiculturalism, from which we have all benefited. promote mutual respect; to promote cooperation The former government encouraged multiculturalism, between bodies concerned with multicultural affairs and I hope it will continue to be promoted by the new and diversity; to promote unity, understanding and legislation. As I read my list of events I have attended, harmony among Victoria’s diverse communities; to one unfortunate thing I noted is that not one of the promote better understanding of Victoria’s diverse leaders of the groups involved has talked to me about

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1037 the bill, because there has not been any consultation Ballarat who have had particular involvement with and with them on it. People are concerned about change. been supported by the City of Ballarat in running events They hope it will be a good change, but I guess it is up within their own communities and in the broader to us to see what happens and keep the government community to celebrate their various cultural accountable. As I said, the opposition supports the backgrounds. That has been very exciting, and I have Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011 and hopes that it been very pleased to be involved in that. continues the promotion and encouragement of multiculturalism to the benefit of us all. On top of that the Ballarat Regional Multicultural Council has been established to help support various Mr HOWARD (Ballarat East) — I am pleased to groups, and the Victorian Multicultural Commission speak on the Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011. My (VMC) has been able to further provide support to electorate is celebrating its multiculturalism really well many of our ethnic groups. It has done so in recent at the moment. We have a great diversity of groups. I years by providing significant funding support. As we acknowledge the comments of the member for Yuroke. have heard, during the Bracks and Brumby years the She recognised that unless we are indigenous amount of support coming through the VMC to various Australians, we are either from another country ethnic community groups across the state increased ourselves or descended from forebears who were new dramatically, and I have seen that that has been of great to Australia at one point or other — that is, we are first, benefit to so many of those groups. second or third-generation immigrants. A number of our European ethnic groups, whether that I am pleased to note that back in the gold rush, which be the Italian pensioners group, the Alliance Francaise, was a very significant event for Ballarat in the 1850s the Dutch club or the Ballarat Italian Association, are and a time when its population increased quite finding that their members are ageing, so they greatly dynamically, we saw people from many different value the support provided through the Victorian countries come to settle in Ballarat looking for gold. Multicultural Commission in supporting their groups to We had people from all parts of Europe, parts of Asia be sustainable and trying to find ways of encouraging and the Americas coming to Ballarat at that time and younger members of their communities to be more building a distinct multicultural community. Of course actively involved in these groups. that continues. The VMC also supports the newer groups, whether it It is fair to say that as recently as the 1950s the be the Filipino friendship group, the Ballarat Indian predominant communities in the Ballarat area were Australian Association, the Chinese community groups from British and European backgrounds, but it has been that have been going a little longer or the new African quite exciting for me and many other members of the friendship groups; they are also receiving support to community to see in recent years that we have had ensure that their community organisations can be many more people from Asian backgrounds — from supported, can grow and can flourish. India, China, Vietnam, the Philippines and other parts of Asia — coming to settle in Ballarat. Even more I have been really impressed that George Lekakis from recently we have had a number of refugees who have the Victorian Multicultural Commission has been up to come from Sudan and Togo and settled in Ballarat and I Ballarat on many occasions with other members of the think that is exciting. It has certainly been exciting for VMC, and we have also had Sam Afra from the Ethnic me in recent years to attend citizenship ceremonies Communities Council of Victoria attending events in across my electorate where I have seen such a diversity Ballarat such as the Victorian multicultural ball held of new citizens becoming part of the Ballarat last year at the Greek hall associated with St Nicholas community. Church; that was a great event. We have had a number of terrific events over recent years being well supported Although earlier speakers on this bill talked about the by VMC and the Ballarat City Council, whether they be need to show tolerance in regard to people of other related to the Ballarat Begonia Festival or a range of nationalities and ethnicities, I believe we need to do a other community events happening in Ballarat such as lot more than that. If we are only showing tolerance, Springfest. I trust that the multicultural and ethnic that is disappointing to me, because we really can groups will continue to flourish. celebrate our diversity. I am very pleased to see that the City of Ballarat has got behind the concept of While we have all said that we are pleased to support supporting and celebrating multiculturalism in Ballarat the tenor of this bill, and those of us on this side of the for a number of years now. I think we have had three house certainly want to take a bipartisan approach in lots of multicultural ambassadors appointed across our support for multiculturalism, clearly the proof of the

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1038 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 pudding will be in the legislation and seeing how the was raped that evening by a number of people. Her changed Victorian Multicultural Commission will daughter sustained a number of injuries, and there were operate. In particular I will be interested to see how the significant medical outcomes for her that will affect her new regional advisory councils will operate, especially for the rest of her life. The girl’s mother was very in the Ballarat East electorate. I hope they can work to concerned about what had transpired, and this example provide terrific support for our ethnic communities, and illustrates one of the potential outcomes of unregulated I will certainly be continuing to provide support for access to alcohol and the jeopardy in which it can place those groups across Ballarat so that we can continue not individuals in their own personal circumstances. just to be tolerant but also to celebrate multiculturalism across our state, particularly in the Ballarat East This bill returns control to parents in a legal sense. It electorate. sets the bar so that community members understand what their obligations under the law might be. It lets We in Victoria have much to celebrate, and I hope we parents know that if they are holding a function or can keep the community on board in focusing on the party — possibly an 18th birthday party at home — the positivity associated with those groups from the many adult person holding the party has a legal obligation to different cultures that make up our community. I also conduct that function with the explicit consent of the hope that we can continue to celebrate multiculturalism parents or guardians of each under-age person attending and that the VMC and its subsidiary bodies will that function in relation to whether or not those continue to be a very important part of that. under-age persons are authorised to have access to alcohol. Debate adjourned on motion of Mr DIXON (Minister for Education). The reverse side of the picture is that over the last decade there has been an increase in the number of Debate adjourned until later this day. ambulance attendances where young people have been drinking, and this has led to an increased number of hospitalisations due to under-age alcohol abuse. There LIQUOR CONTROL REFORM has been an increased number of assaults on the streets AMENDMENT BILL 2011 of Melbourne, the general cause of which has been the overconsumption of alcohol. There are myriad other Second reading outcomes through the abuse of alcohol and the Debate resumed from 5 April; motion of correlation between overconsumption of alcohol and Mr O’BRIEN (Minister for Consumer Affairs). assaults and the ramifications that have occurred not just once or twice but regularly on the streets of Mr THOMPSON (Sandringham) — I am pleased Melbourne. to contribute to the debate on the Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011. From my experiences Within the Sandringham electorate there have been a as a member of Parliament representing the electorate number of zones around hotels — the Mentone Hotel, of Sandringham I have a couple of key recollections in the former Beaumaris Hotel and the Sandringham relation to alcohol and drug abuse. One memory is of a Hotel — where incidents have arisen through under-age visit to the Latrobe Valley, where the Parliament’s Law drinking. There has been a level of access to licensed Reform Committee was taking evidence on alcohol and venues where people have been able to circumvent the drug abuse and access to legal services. I found it security card system of hotels, but also within those extraordinary that in one particular community, along precincts on the Sandringham foreshore there has been with both a high level of alcohol abuse and a high level unregulated consumption of alcohol, which has led to of drug abuse, there was an accompanying problem myriad other adverse antisocial outcomes within my within that community of petrol sniffing, owing to its electorate that involve a cost to the community. cheaper availability. Having seen and understood the What this bill does is try to redress that and to set a impact of petrol sniffing, let me say to members that community standard so that people who have access to one child sniffing petrol for one day is one child too alcohol can supply it a person under the age of 18 only many. with parental consent. This makes it easier for parents On another occasion a mother came to my office and who are conducting a party to set the standard. It should told me she was concerned to see justice fairly done. encourage a wider community awareness as to what the One day her 16-year-old daughter had completed work benchmark should be, enabling young people to live at a local food store and joined a group of fellow productive lives rather than having certain life-changing workers on the foreshore. Unfortunately her daughter

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1039 events occurring to them through unsupervised This bill deals with a loophole. It is not the silver bullet overconsumption of alcohol and through inexperience. for adolescent binge drinking but it does provide an opportunity to address major concerns. My concern is Through my work as a member of Parliament I am that this bill does not strive to deliver a comprehensive aware parliamentary committees have taken on board alcohol strategy on the bigger levers for changing evidence in relation to this issue. I note too that the culture and reducing harm — marketing, supply, Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee had been distribution and price. pushing for secondary supply laws for a long time. Members of this Parliament and all-party committees I am also concerned about whether parents can make an have pushed for it. In addition, the Australian Drug informed decision before granting consent for their Foundation has pushed for reform of this area of the children to drink alcohol if they do not know about the law to mirror or duplicate what already exists in other most up-to-date evidence. states or to empower the Victorian legislature to enact similar provisions. This bill is a good reform, and if it However, the information and education campaign makes a difference to one life this year, it will be provides an opportunity that should not be missed to legislation well enacted. deliver crucial messages so that informed decisions can be made — for example, young brains do not fully Mr McGUIRE (Broadmeadows) — I rise to mature until the age of 25, according to recent research. address concerns about adolescent drinking and the A lot of drinking by 15-year-olds is binge drinking, strategic approach to be adopted in response. The bill which is defined as having five alcoholic drinks in a before the house amends the Liquor Control Reform row, and getting intoxicated. This is happening to about Act 1998 to make changes to the way Victorians aged one-third of Victorians aged 15 to 16 years according to under 18 obtain access to alcohol in private residences. the chair in health psychology at Deakin University, The amendments in the bill make it an offence to Professor John Toumbourou. supply liquor to a minor in a residence without parental consent. The fine for supplying alcohol to a minor in a Mr Wynne — One-third? private residence has been set at a maximum of $7167. The minister said this should act as a deterrent for Mr McGUIRE — Yes. These findings need to be adults contemplating supplying alcohol to children considered in the information and education campaign. other than their own. The conclusions of this research are that about 25 per cent of young people report that parents buy alcohol for One of the objectives of the bill is to provide parents them. While the parents’ motivation is to limit the with greater support in deciding how their child is amount of alcohol minors consume, introducing or exposed to liquor, and this is to be supported by a allowing alcohol consumption for minors raises some ‘comprehensive information and education campaign’ risks, according to this research. These risks also need to deliver a greater understanding of the issues. This is to be considered through a nuanced education strategy. crucial. Parents need to be informed before they give consent. Labor does not oppose this bill and is The research found that the likelihood that adolescents committed to ensuring alcohol is consumed will drink regularly at 15 is predicted on the age at responsibly, yet this bill remains silent on what the which they first consumed alcohol. If they drank at a government will provide in its information and younger age it was more likely they would be drinking education campaign. regularly by the time they were 15. A conclusion was that the more regularly you drink alcohol at 15, the I was a member of the Victorian Drug and Alcohol greater tolerance you have and the more drinks you can Prevention Council when it commissioned a survey on consume in a session. This is an issue because studies under-age drinking that found that 84 per cent of 16 and now show that the effect of alcohol on the adolescent 17-year-olds confirmed that they had consumed brain is much greater than the same quantity consumed alcohol. Almost one-third of those surveyed two years by an adult. According to the science, as young people ago had consumed 20 or more standard drinks in any develop a tolerance to alcohol they can drink a lot more one day at least once in the previous year. Put bluntly, before they get to a point where they have to stop. alcohol intake is one of the major issues, if not the major issue, affecting young Victorians. Research Drinking frequently at 15 also establishes how you are indicates that as this cohort ages, more than 25 per cent likely to be drinking in young adulthood. Research has of deaths will be related in some way to alcohol. This is found little of this drinking tends to be moderate. This tragic. In many cases it could be prevented. is regarded as a particular problem for females. According to these findings, young women are drinking

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1040 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 at higher rates than we have seen in Australia minors. There is plenty of notice for the previously. Experts are concerned about the adverse commencement of this legislation, which will be impacts. The rise in the numbers of young women February 2012. That notice will be needed because a lot drinking has emerged as a clear pattern during the past of parents of 17-year-olds and 18-year-olds, or perhaps two decades. younger children, are going to need to have some very deep and meaningful conversations. One reason has been described as the changing role of young women. According to the research, parents are The bill amends the Liquor Control Act 1998 to make now reportedly more reluctant to set a different changes to the way people who are under-age obtain standard for boys and girls. The research states that in alcohol at private premises. The amendments to the act previous generations there was a double standard and will make it an offence to supply liquor to a minor in a young girls were often put under a different regime by residence without parental consent, and this strengthens parents. Another reason is that the industry has targeted the role of parents in making decisions regarding young women as an emerging market for sweet children and alcohol. flavoured drinks which have been specifically designed for female tastes. Disturbingly, young women are not There are some disturbing figures, and I note the convinced by the evidence from psychology and contribution of the previous speaker, the member for physiology that alcohol has a different effect on them Broadmeadows, in obtaining some of these figures. The relative to men. The research has found that they Victorian Drug and Alcohol Prevention Council’s 2009 believe it is all right to drink at the same rates as young Victorian Youth Alcohol and Drug Survey — Final men. Report found that 84 per cent of 16 and 17-year-olds surveyed confirmed that they consumed alcohol, and Under-age binge drinking is a dangerous and 31 per cent of those had consumed 20 or more standard challenging social trend. We are constantly discovering drinks in one day in the past 12 months. That is a high new information that needs to be communicated to level of drinking for a young mind. The same survey parents, adolescents and the broader community. This also found that half the minors surveyed indicated they bill addresses one issue in a mosaic. It demands a more had usually consumed alcohol at a friend’s place, and strategic response to consider the latest scientific 61 per cent of respondents had received the alcohol findings and cultural understandings. from a friend or acquaintance. Many of us would find this disturbing at such a young age. Alcohol consumption is a major national problem that requires a comprehensive and coordinated preventive The operation of this bill is very much drafted to follow strategy. It can begin with this bill by using the similar bills in New South Wales, Queensland and proposed information and education campaign to Tasmania. The Victorian law has been drafted along explain in detail the evidence-based facts about which I New South Wales lines, and it brings up a number of believe many parents do not know. This is the least we issues. The provisions relating to the responsible should do so that parents can be informed when they service of alcohol to minors in Victoria will not be consider whether they should grant consent. Parents in regularly enforced; their predominant value is as a Broadmeadows and in communities across Victoria deterrent. That is something that is important. We need want to feel their children are safe at parties and that to send clear messages that alcohol and the developing they have made an informed decision about consent. mind must be managed and must be considered.

The opportunity also exists to deliver a coordinated There are a number of other areas and scenarios that strategy for a comprehensive response to the big picture parents will find themselves needing to develop and issues such as the marketing, supply, distribution and understand. It is the classic dilemma of the price of alcohol. This can be done at a national level, 18th birthday party. In many cases parents seek to have for example, under the auspices of the Council of these birthday parties in their homes so they can control Australian Governments and the newly established and manage behaviour in relation to the consumption of Australian National Preventive Health Agency. To do alcohol. However, in doing that the situation where less for our children would be a folly. parents supply alcohol to their child’s friends who are minors is something that will have to be considered. Mr CRISP (Mildura) — I rise to make a Our interpretation of this is very much that if a minor is contribution on the Liquor Control Reform Amendment at a friend’s house and a friend’s parent supplies the Bill 2011, a bill which I support. The purpose of the bill minor with alcohol, that would be against the law is to amend the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 to unless the minor’s parent, guardian or spouse impose further restrictions on the supply of liquor to authorised the supply.

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People will need to have this discussion. I think it is the minor’s parent or guardian and obtain verbal or very useful for parents and young adults to have these written consent prior to supplying alcohol to the minor. discussions, to talk about what happens and to If that consent is not forthcoming, either verbally or in understand what the law requires and what the parents writing, alcohol must not be supplied. require. This will be difficult, but I believe it will be good. Those scenarios can happen in many ways. The This bill obviously removes the current exception of consent part is important in this. The consent can be supply in a private residence, and it addresses a very verbal or written, but it will have to be worked out with important situation. Like many others in this place I am the parents. a parent of teenage children, and we have all had the experience where our children have innocently gone off I am very pleased to be supporting this legislation. It is to a function. I can think of one occasion where we time for this reform to occur. We need to be vigilant dropped our daughter off at a 16th birthday party only about the effects of use of alcohol, particularly on to find out later that the big brother was also having a developing minds. We need to be vigilant about the use function — an 18th or a 21st; I cannot recall. He and of alcohol by minors without their parents’ permission. his mates had plenty of liquor on the premises and the Parenting has its responsibilities, and this is one area mum and dad were not there. We got a call from our where we are going to step up to the mark and bring daughter saying, ‘This is turning into a bit of a difficult this valuable reform to the state of Victoria. situation’. Some of her friends were not as resilient as she was and succumbed to the situation that Mr ANGUS (Forest Hill) — It gives me great subsequently ensued. That was a concern, and as a pleasure to speak on this bill this evening. It is a very member of the community, that has been a concern to simple and very clear bill but yet a very profound bill. me for quite some time. It is good that we can stand We are all well aware, and we have heard from here in this place and solve these sorts of problems for members on both sides of the house in relation to this parents in the state of Victoria. bill, of many examples and much discussion in relation to the current use of alcohol in society. The difficulty It is also worth noting, as other members have noted, posed in our society by alcohol use, particularly the minister’s comments in the second-reading speech. excessive and inappropriate alcohol use, is very He stated that: apparent to all of us in this place, and to most people in society in general. There is no doubt that it is a major … the 2009 Victorian youth alcohol and drug survey also found that over half of the minors surveyed indicated that problem in our society. We as a responsible, incoming they usually consumed alcohol at a friend’s place. government are bringing legislation into this place to address many of the issues relating to that particular Again, that situation reinforces the issue and the problem, and this bill is certainly part of that. problem that exists, and the fact that together in a bipartisan manner we can now put this legislation I turn to the objectives of the Liquor Control Reform through the Parliament and solve the problem. The Amendment Bill 2011. The first objective of the bill legislation is going to be warmly received by that I want to talk about tonight is the fact that it community members here in Victoria. implements a clear government policy and commitment in relation to prohibiting the secondary supply of liquor It is interesting to also note that other jurisdictions to a minor in a private home without parental consent. already have this sort of legislation. If we consider the It is a clear piece of legislation and, as I said before, an situation particularly in New South Wales, Queensland important and profound one. and Tasmania, we can see they have already crossed this bridge. Other members have said that committees The second objective of this legislation is to provide have looked at this issue in the past, so even though we parents with further support in determining how and are lagging behind those states and even though it has when their children are exposed to alcohol. Without a taken a while, it is terrific that we are here. I shadow of a doubt this is what the community is congratulate the minister on this bill, and I heartily looking for from this place. People are looking for support it. I commend this bill to the house. leadership in relation to these sorts of problematic matters in the community. This piece of legislation Mr WATT (Burwood) — I rise to support the empowers parents once again, and that is what the Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011 and to community is looking for in relation to this particular congratulate the Minister for Consumer Affairs on such area. This bill puts the onus on the person who intends a fine piece of work. to supply the alcohol, and, as others have commented, it talks about how any supplier of alcohol must speak to Mr Wynne interjected.

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1042 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011

The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr Weller) — Order! I that there are consequences if something goes belly up will hear the member for Burwood without assistance as a result of an adult serving alcohol to another from the member for Richmond, who is out of his person’s child. That is important. Linked with that no place. doubt will be an ongoing education program to convey the messages that other members of the house, such as Mr WATT — This bill amends section 119(5)(e) of the member for Broadmeadows, have conveyed, which the Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 to further restrict are that younger people’s brains are less developed and the supply of liquor in a residence so that it may be less capable of dealing with the impacts of alcohol and supplied to a person under the age of 18 only by: that the damage that is done is long lasting and cumulative. We have seen the effects of alcohol in (i) a parent, guardian or spouse of the person (if the spouse is of or over the age of 18 years); or other circumstances, including where peer group pressure exists and given the bulletproof mentality of (ii) someone who is authorised by a parent, guardian or young people when it comes to death on our roads. spouse of the person (if the spouse is of or over the age of 18 years) … This bill is part of the suite of legislation that is intended to protect our young people and to give It is a fairly simple bill. I think most Victorians would parents a sense of control. It respects the rights of expect not to supply alcohol to someone who is not parents to bring up their children as they see fit and their child and that, as parents, they should have the encourages young people to be responsible. As the right to determine whether or not their children are member for Forest Hill indicated, he is doing a good supplied with alcohol. job with his children. When his daughter was I note that other jurisdictions have similar legislation. confronted with an awkward situation, she had the Both the New South Wales Liquor Act 2007 and the maturity and the faith in her parents to ring and express Queensland Liquor Act 1992 contain clauses that are concern about the direction in which the situation was similar to this. It is about time that we got on board. We heading. This legislation takes some pressure off have had 11 dark years of Labor with no action on this, children such as the daughter of the member for Forest and I think most Victorians would have expected that Hill and supports parents in doing what they do best — this was already part of the law. Most people would that is, bringing up their children. I commend the bill to expect that they should not give alcohol to someone the house. who is not their child. This bill is common sense. I Business interrupted pursuant to standing orders. would be very disappointed if someone else was plying my children with alcohol without my consent, keeping The SPEAKER — Order! The time set down for in mind that my children are fairly young. I commend consideration of items on the government’s business this fantastic bill to the house. program has expired and I am required to interrupt business. Dr SYKES (Benalla) — I wish to make a brief contribution to the debate on the Liquor Control Motion agreed to. Reform Amendment Bill 2011 and congratulate the Baillieu-Ryan government on introducing this piece of Read second time. common-sense legislation, which signals a cultural change in that it is no longer okay to supply alcohol to Third reading someone else’s child and to see the damage that it can do to them. Motion agreed to.

In the previous Parliament I was a member of the Drugs Read third time. and Crime Prevention Committee, which looked into this issue as well as binge drinking amongst young people. The committee made a recommendation to implement this piece of legislation. I note that it has been a number of years since that recommendation, and now the Baillieu-Ryan government has been elected and has shown the courage and common sense to bring it together.

The key message is that this signals a cultural change. It will be difficult to police at times, but the message is

RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES AMENDMENT (PUBLIC HOUSING) BILL 2011

Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1043

RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES AMENDMENT ADJOURNMENT (PUBLIC HOUSING) BILL 2011 The SPEAKER — The question is: Second reading That the house do now adjourn. Debate resumed from earlier today; motion of Somerton Road: duplication Mr DELAHUNTY (Minister for Sport and Recreation). Ms BEATTIE (Yuroke) — I wish to raise an urgent matter for the attention of the Minister for Roads. The Motion agreed to. action I seek is for the minister to fund the duplication Read second time. of Somerton Road in the upcoming budget. Many members of the house know Somerton Road, WHICH Third reading is incomplete. When VicUrban built Roxburgh Park, Somerton Road was duplicated to Roxburgh Park Motion agreed to. Drive. From Roxburgh Park Drive to Mickleham Road it can only be described as much less than satisfactory. Read third time. It is amongst the roads in the state most needing to be duplicated. That project has the support of the Royal HEALTH SERVICES AMENDMENT Automobile Club of Victoria. The CEO of the RACV, Mr Brian Negus, late last week identified Somerton (HEALTH INNOVATION AND REFORM Road as one of the most dangerous roads in the outer COUNCIL) BILL 2011 suburbs. It is certainly very high on the RACV’s list of roads that need to be duplicated. Second reading One of the things that has hastened the call for Debate resumed from 5 April; motion of Somerton Road to be duplicated is the fact that the City Dr NAPTHINE (Minister for Ports). of Hume, through a developer-funded road commonly Motion agreed to. known as the E14, or Aitken Boulevard, is now going to intersect Somerton Road near an estate called Read second time. Shannon Rise and near Kirkham Drive. That will almost create a crossroads, which will be extremely Third reading dangerous. There was a death on the corner of Magnolia Boulevard and Somerton Road late last year Motion agreed to. when a woman was doing a right-hand turn out of Read third time. Magnolia Boulevard and unfortunately was hit by a truck. This road duplication needs to be done. The speed limits were dropped to 70 kilometres an hour, but MULTICULTURAL VICTORIA BILL 2011 this section of Somerton Road goes up a big hill in front of the Greenvale Reservoir, and cars and trucks get Second reading their speed up to get up the hill.

Debate resumed from earlier this day; motion of Once again, the action I call for is for the Minister for Mr KOTSIRAS (Minister for Multicultural Affairs Roads to fund the duplication of Somerton Road from and Citizenship). Roxburgh Park Drive to Mickleham Road, paying special attention to the intersection of Kirkham Drive, Motion agreed to. Aitken Boulevard and Somerton Road. This road has taken lives. It is a proven death trap, and the duplication Read second time. needs to be funded now. I call on the minister to Third reading provide that funding.

Motion agreed to. Kilsyth electorate: sports facilities

Read third time. Mr HODGETT (Kilsyth) — I wish to raise a matter of importance with the Minister for Sport and Business interrupted pursuant to sessional orders. Recreation. I call on the minister to visit the electorate of Kilsyth to update my community on the progress of

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1044 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 the commitments made during the election campaign and it is a thrill, as the member for Kilsyth, to support and for the minister to see firsthand the needs of our local junior and senior clubs. local sports clubs and facilities. Epping Road, Epping: duplication Kilsyth is an electorate with a vastly diverse demographic. There is a strong sense of community, Ms GREEN (Yan Yean) — I raise a matter tonight and sports clubs are part of the glue that keeps our for the attention of the Minister for Roads. I ask him to suburbs and neighbourhoods strong. Kilsyth is home to make a commitment in the forthcoming state budget, many sports clubs and facilities, with almost every which will be delivered next month, to invest sport imaginable available. From football, basketball $17 million to duplicate Epping Road from Memorial and netball to BMX, table tennis and baseball, Avenue to Findon Road and to include traffic lights at thousands of residents in Kilsyth participate in regular that intersection. I am very proud to say that Labor in and organised sport. government had made a commitment to duplicate the road, as it had delivered work on many roads in the During the 2010 election campaign the coalition made a north of Melbourne. They included the duplication of number of important commitments to improve and Cooper Street and the duplication of Plenty Road from support some of the sports clubs in the Kilsyth Centenary Drive up past the South Morang fire station. electorate. I am extremely grateful for the coalition’s The current project, which I understand this commitment to local grassroots sport, and I am proud government tried to halt, is the duplication of Plenty of the benefits that improvements to facilities will Road heading towards Mernda. provide to the junior and senior sportspeople of my electorate. I ask the minister to come to Kilsyth to Anyone who read the media reports last Friday will confirm both his and the Baillieu government’s understand that Melbourne in general and the north of commitment to sports clubs and facilities. Melbourne are part of the largest area of population growth in this country. It seems to have escaped the Pinks Reserve in Colchester Road, Kilsyth has been attention of government members opposite that the Yan promised funding towards a new netball facility. Pinks Yean electorate is the most populous electorate in this Reserve is also the site of the Kilsyth basketball centre state. They failed to commit a single dollar to any form and the Kilsyth Football Club, and the creation of a of infrastructure to the north, whether it be roads, public netball centre will enhance Pinks Reserve as a true transport, hospital beds or schools. I call on the Minister sports hub. The Croydon and District Table Tennis for Roads to turn around this total abrogation of Association, which is the biggest table tennis responsibility for the communities of the north and in association in Australia and has produced four Olympic the forthcoming budget to consider the needs of the representatives, has had funding committed for new north so that people there can move around and get to lighting, new equipment and new tables. The coalition schools, work and shopping centres as they need to. has committed to funding for new lighting towers at Mooroolbark Heights Reserve. I am pleased to report I am proud to represent the communities of the north. that work on the new lighting towers has commenced We offer a great lifestyle. We have new schools and and that Mooroolbark Football Club will have the new communities evolving. There are not just new facility of new lights for training during the 2011 housing estates but new suburbs. We need to support season. those communities by providing them with good road networks and connections. Barngeong Reserve is home to the Croydon Junior Football Club, the Croydon North Junior Cricket Club It was not enough for the Liberal-Nationals coalition to and the Croydon Rams Baseball Club. The coalition decide not to commit anything to the north. Now it is committed funding for new clubrooms during the putting the wrecking ball to major job-generating election campaign. I am pleased that the Baillieu projects in the north. It is walking away from thousands government can provide brand-new facilities for all of jobs that the wholesale fruit and vegetable market in clubs resident at Barngeong Reserve to enjoy. A Epping would provide; it is not providing much-needed funding commitment was also made for master plan doctors at the Northern Health academic and research design works for new clubroom facilities at Silcock precinct; and it is not providing plans to upgrade a Reserve. single school in the north. I urge the government to act on High Street — — I ask the minister to visit Kilsyth and support the Baillieu government’s 100 per cent commitment to The SPEAKER — Order! The member’s time has grassroots sport. Kilsyth has a wonderful sports culture, expired.

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1045

Princes Freeway, Morwell: closure responsibility with respect to this particular matter. I call upon the minister to visit the Latrobe Valley in the Mr NORTHE (Morwell) — The matter I raise is near future to discuss these concerns. for the Minister for Roads. The action I seek is that he visit the Latrobe Valley to discuss measures the Rail: Geelong station government is taking to minimise traffic congestion over the Easter period following the closure of the Mr TREZISE (Geelong) — I raise an issue on Princes Freeway in Morwell in February. tonight’s adjournment for the Minister for Public Transport. The issue I raise relates to people with a On 7 February after a large rain event a sinkhole and disability or elderly or infirm people being able to cracking were identified in the northern part of the easily and efficiently access platforms 2 and 3 at Hazelwood mine and on the freeway and an adjoining Geelong railway station. Currently those people who area of land. As we know, that has caused great for whatever reason are unable to climb steep stairs are consternation. On the northern edge of the mine, not far unable to access platforms 2 and 3 at Geelong station to the north, we have an open drain. That open drain without the assistance of station staff. This is because effectively carries the stormwater of the township of an old footbridge provides the only access to Morwell. Further to the north we have the freeway, and platforms 2 and 3. further north again we have residential parcels of land at the edge of Morwell. These areas are in close The action I seek from the minister is that he investigate proximity, so obviously over the ensuing days an and fund some form of infrastructure that will provide assessment of the area was undertaken. On 10 February direct access to platforms 2 and 3 at Geelong station for it was determined that a full closure of the Princes people with a disability. At present any passenger who Freeway in Morwell would occur. Unfortunately it is unable to climb the steps of the footbridge is reliant would be fair to say that over time that has created on station staff to place them on a buggy, transport much consternation for not only the residents of them down to the end of platform 1, across rail lines 1 Morwell but also of course those who travel through the and 2 and then up on to platforms 2 and 3. In 2011 this area. There is no doubt that it is a challenging situation. is clearly unacceptable, and the time for some action to be taken is well and truly overdue. I take the opportunity to commend the emergency management team that is dealing with this matter — a In raising this issue I recognise that the problem has not group that is headed by the Victoria Police. Geoff been adequately addressed by numerous governments Newby and his team are doing a wonderful job in over the last 15 to 20 years, and I acknowledge that in communicating the current issues in relation to this recent years there has been some effort by V/Line staff incident. VicRoads, the Department of Primary to ensure that people requiring assistance do get this Industries, International Power Hazelwood and the assistance, but for people to be relying on busy railway Latrobe City Council are also doing their utmost to staff is not the best solution — far from it — and it is ensure that the community is kept informed of the time that some form of lift, for example, was installed situation. The community is getting ongoing updates on to provide more direct and adequate access. the status of the freeway closure. Within the emergency management team a traffic management group has been Numerous people have raised this issue with me in appointed to manage the road and traffic flows through recent years, including Cr Barb Abley and various Morwell and through alternate routes where possible. disability groups. I in turn have raised this with both V/Line and the Department of Transport. I am raising It would be fair to say that over the Labor Day long this with the minister, and before he says, ‘Oh, really’, I weekend there were some congestion issues in am not pointing the finger at him for the lack of Morwell, and it is imperative that over the Easter period action — far from it — because, as I said before, this the traffic management group’s communications get issue has been around for a number of years. I am out to all Victorians travelling through the area. We genuinely raising this tonight in an effort to finally and certainly sent out a clear message that Gippsland is once and for all resolve this issue for the betterment of open for business over the long weekend, and we want the Geelong railway station. to see the minister come down to Latrobe Valley to see firsthand the issues that we are experiencing. Schools: Forest Hill electorate

Of course the minister is very much across the issues. Mr ANGUS (Forest Hill) — I raise a matter for the We are keeping him informed on a very regular basis, attention of the Minister for Education. The seat of as we are informing all ministers who have Forest Hill suffered under the previous government,

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1046 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 with many areas having been neglected during the last Vertex: Ballarat customer support centre 11 years. For example, a number of schools in the electorate of Forest Hill suffered from the underfunding Mr HOWARD (Ballarat East) — I raise a matter of the Labor years and now have maintenance backlogs for the attention of the Premier. The action I seek is for requiring urgent attention. the Premier to come with his Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations up to Ballarat. Members might I have been in contact with all the school principals in be aware that in the last sitting week the Minister for the seat of Forest Hill, and they have outlined to me a Innovation, Services and Small Business spoke in this number of the particular needs of their schools. One of Parliament in response to a Dorothy Dixer in question the frequently cited needs that has been raised with me time and appeared to gloat over the stalling of the is the issue of outstanding maintenance. The previous establishment of a 500-seat customer support centre in government should be condemned for its neglect of Ballarat. The apparent stalling of this project, which public schools during its 11-year term. received much support at the time of its announcement from the City of Ballarat and the former government, is It is interesting to note that an article entitled ‘Schools obviously a source of much disappointment to Ballarat. in shambles’ on page 12 of yesterday’s Herald Sun newspaper talked about the issue of the school I am pleased that the new government is aware of the maintenance backlog. One paragraph in the article Vertex project and its apparent stalling, but it would states: therefore seem to us a high priority to have the Premier, along with the employment minister, come to Ballarat AEU Victorian president Mary Bluett said years of neglect had left maintenance as the number one problem for to talk with key people at the City of Ballarat, with principals. industry leaders and with other relevant stakeholders in the area about what can be done and what support the Years of neglect — that certainly sums it up. The state government can provide to either get the Vertex previous government failed the Victorian community in project going or to see alternative job creation many areas, including this vital area of maintenance of initiatives supported. public schools. The waste and mismanagement of the previous Labor government meant that taxpayers Under the former Bracks and Brumby governments money was wasted rather than being used where it was Ballarat was used to having the Premier visit to discuss needed. Given the maintenance problems that the new key issues and to deliver important state support project government has inherited, it is worth noting how some funding. It is now more than four months since the of the taxpayers hard-earnt money was squandered by government was elected and still the Premier has not the previous Labor government over the last 11 seen fit to visit Ballarat, the state’s largest inland city years — for example, the overrun on myki of some and the third biggest city in the state. Ballarat deserves $1 billion. Imagine what could have been done to erode ongoing state support. To date the level of attention the school maintenance backlog with an extra $1 billion given by the Premier has been minimal. He will not from this project alone. even follow the long-established tradition of speaking on local radio station 3BA in a regular slot. He appears I am aware that the new Baillieu-Ryan government has to be totally disinterested in the need to link with been working hard to address these matters and to Ballarat or to speak with anybody in Ballarat. implement actions that will restore the condition of schools throughout Victoria. The action I seek is that I repeat my request to the Premier that he come to the Minister for Education visit the seat of Forest Hill. I Ballarat, meet our people and learn what Ballarat would welcome the opportunity to discuss the needs of community leaders believe his government can do to Forest Hill schools with the minister and to outline to support jobs and community development. I will the minister some of the very important local school certainly be happy to show him around if he is shy. The issues that need to be addressed. Premier should come up and show some interest in our city and our region. Clearly he is wanted. We want a The SPEAKER — Order! I ask all members when Premier who cares about Ballarat. they get up to speak to let the Chair know which minister they are addressing their matter to and what The SPEAKER — Order! Members should not use action they want taken. props.

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1047

Floods: Murray Valley electorate seek the minister’s assistance to facilitate the possible extension of a current Crown land lease. Mr McCURDY (Murray Valley) — I raise a matter for the attention of the Minister for Regional and Rural Many years ago the Lions Club of Essendon developed Development. The action I seek is for him to support what is known as Lionsville. The Lionsville aged-care the people of Murray Valley electorate and more facility is in a prominent location on the corner of particularly the people of Wangaratta to help us to Pascoe Vale and Moreland roads, Essendon, alongside recover from the recent floods. the Moonee Ponds Creek. It has existed for about 50 years as a residential village for the elderly seeking During the recent flooding in Wangaratta there was independent retirement accommodation. extensive damage done to private and public property. Recently the minister visited Wangaratta and witnessed The initiative was established by the Lions Club of firsthand the damage that was caused. During this visit Essendon, which may I say recently celebrated its he supported the council with funding for roads, bridges 58th birthday. The club would like to progressively and other shire facilities. However, Merriwa Park, improve, renew and redevelop the site to accommodate which he knows quite well, was extensively damaged, more residents in a contemporary setting that is more and there remains an urgent need to restore and appropriate to the demands and needs of the residents re-establish infrastructure. Merriwa Park is an and to complement those needs with relevant services. important Wangaratta asset, with many large, shady grassed areas, a playground, a soundshell and a lawn I understand that as recently as last Monday the tennis club. Many sporting groups use the park for Lionsville committee of management was given the pre-season fitness training, and the tennis courts are go-ahead by the Victorian Civil and Administrative available to club and non-club members. Tribunal to allow a planning permit for the development to be granted by the City of Moonee Flooding last September and December damaged the Valley, which might I say is also extremely supportive recreational area badly. The lawn tennis club had of the development. extensive damage to its heritage-listed clubhouse. The unsealed and busy car park adjacent to the tennis club The difficulty the committee has is that the situation is a deteriorated considerably, requiring urgent relatively unique one and is different to the types of refurbishment. The project needs to resurface the car leases that the Department of Sustainability and park and install basic gates and fencing to entry areas Environment tends to deal with. My request tonight is for use at times when there is excess water. The total for the minister to direct the department to negotiate in project cost is $201 000, and we require $150 750 in good faith and explore the options that might provide assistance from the Victorian government, a further an arrangement whereby the lease can be extended for $40 000 from the Rural City of Wangaratta and as long as possible to allow Lionsville to expand and $10 000 from the Wangaratta Lawn Tennis Club. cater to the needs of an increasing number of elderly locals seeking suitable independent retirement I reiterate that the action I am seeking is that the accommodation. The minister might even meet with minister support the people of Murray Valley electorate representatives of the Essendon Lions Club and the to help us recover from these events. Merriwa Park is a Lionsville committee of management, in particular cornerstone of many community activities, and we seek Stephen Brown, the Lionsville business director, to the minister’s support. This park has previously been work towards a beneficial resolution for not only the inundated by floods, the latest being in 1998 and 1993. Essendon community but those elderly residents in the The park is highly valued by the local tourist area seeking independent accommodation. communities, and if it were not for the efforts of major volunteer groups and the council in sandbagging the Kananook Creek: management plan park and its perimeters, even greater inundation would have occurred. We request the minister’s attention to Mr SHAW (Frankston) — I raise a matter for the support the people of Murray Valley electorate through attention of the Minister for Water. The action I seek is the Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure Fund. for the minister to work towards the delivery of our election promise to clean up Kananook Creek. Lionsville aged-care facility: lease The story of Kananook Creek is important to Mr MADDEN (Essendon) — My request tonight is Frankston’s history and extends into the Carrum for the Minister for Environment and Climate Change. I electorate. In 1907 our newspaper, the Frankston Standard, reported that Kananook Creek was

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1048 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011 beautifully fringed with trees and that it wound in and This promise has been welcomed by the Kananook out in a pleasing and romantic manner. The creek made Creek Association — — it easy for fishing boats to shelter and berth from the at times unpredictable conditions on Port Phillip Bay. Honourable members interjecting.

At one time the creek attached to the Carrum Carrum The SPEAKER — Order! What is the action the swamp, providing a flow of water north and south. member is requesting? When the swamp was drained the creek became a stagnant series of ponds and was polluted by waste Mr SHAW — That the minister visit Kananook from the Frankston township, resulting in a foul smell. Creek and work towards the de-silting of it using the A once vibrant fishing creek was no longer. $2.5 million.

For decades possible solutions have been discussed by Ms Beattie — On a point of order, Speaker, I have many members of the community, all to no avail. In been listening carefully to the various contributions, recent times a number of sectors of government, and I know there are a number of new members, but the including Melbourne Water, Parks Victoria and the custom and practice of this house is to raise one matter City of Frankston, have passed responsibility to each for one minister. Members are raising several matters. other, with no-one taking the lead and breaking through The member for Frankston talked about police, and the bureaucratic barriers. No-one has stood up to then he talked about Kananook Creek. The member for provide leadership. Murray Valley asked the minister for support. I am not sure that these are actions. I seek your guidance, In the 1960s Kananook Creek had boat moorings, but Speaker. I ask that you have a close look at these silt build-up, amongst other things, drove away those matters that have been raised on the adjournment and who wished to moor their vessels. The creek has give some guidance to the new members on exactly launching ramps used by many fishermen in Frankston what form the adjournment should take. It is my and surrounding suburbs. Being a tidal creek, at low understanding that members should raise one matter tide many boat owners walk their boats back to the with one minister and then call for action. ramps from the mouth of the creek or from the ramps to Port Phillip Bay. The SPEAKER — Order! I very much appreciate the member’s point of order, and tomorrow I will As a central activities district (CAD) Frankston was peruse Hansard to analyse the matters that were raised. given $12.5 million over five years, compared to Dandenong’s $290 million. Frankston was the lowest Responses funded of the six CADs by Labor. It was obvious Labor Mr RYAN (Minister for Regional and Rural did not care about Frankston. Frankston was Development) — I rise to respond to an issue raised by underfunded and underresourced, not just in CAD the member for Murray Valley. I pay tribute to the funding but also in policing. That is why, on behalf of member for the great representation he is providing to the people of Frankston, I congratulate our government his electorate. He certainly has substantial shoes to fill. on its supplying of an additional 35 police this financial They were not necessarily the biggest shoes worn by year — the single largest police allocation in the state the former member, Mr Jasper, but metaphorically they from the largest police recruitment Victoria has seen. were very big shoes indeed. The member is doing a And what has been done with this $12.5 million CAD great job in his role as the current member for Murray funding? Some $9 million of it was spent on a Valley. boulevard at Kananook Creek, including $l.3 million on The member raised with me issues about Merriwa Park a bridge to 30 car spaces. What a waste of money. The and surroundings and the damage done by the floods in boulevard not only took over 100 car spaces from September and then again in December 2010. The park people wanting to enjoy the beach but was built on a is a vital asset to the Wangaratta community. Within its creek that is treated as a drain. boundaries it has many large, shady grassed areas; it I am pleased that with our commitment of $2.5 million has a playground, a soundshell and, very importantly, it to clean up the creek the image of Frankston will contains the lawn tennis club. Many of the sporting improve and a vibrant community area will be restored, groups in and around Wangaratta use the park for so that boating, canoeing and other activities can be preseason fitness training. The tennis courts are enjoyed. available to club and non-club members. They are used in the delivery of extensive tennis coaching as well as providing a very vibrant tennis competition. Indeed I

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Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1049 am reliably informed that there are something in the the community of Wangaratta. I am pleased to be able order of 500 members of this club in Wangaratta. It has to tell the local member that as a direct result of what he a great heritage of service to the Wangaratta district. has been able to put to us we can now enable this work to be done in conjunction with the council and During the two flooding events last year substantial volunteers. I am sure it will be a wonderful outcome for damage was caused to this very important recreational all concerned. area. The lawn tennis club also suffered damage, which was apparent in the extensive damage to the Mr MULDER (Minister for Public Transport) — I heritage-listed clubhouse. Some of the fencing was also will firstly respond to the issue that was raised by the a victim of the events, as well as the adjacent car park, member for Geelong in relation to an investigation into which requires extensive refurbishment to be federal Disability Discrimination Act 1992 compliance undertaken to improve access and complement tennis on platforms 2 and 3 at Geelong railway station. I facilities at Merriwa Park. The unsealed but would just like to inform the minister that as part of nevertheless very busy car park adjacent to the club the — — deteriorated considerably and requires urgent refurbishment. As the member has indicated, all this Honourable members interjecting. means that extensive capital works will be necessary if this great area of Wangaratta is able to be returned to its Mr MULDER — I would just like to inform the former glory. member, I mean. He is hoping! I would like to inform the member that as part of our process of dealing with I am very pleased to be able to tell the member and the railway stations, particularly new railway stations, I house that the government of Victoria will be able to have put in place a panel to work with the provide a grant of $150 750 towards the total cost of department — it will be made up of people from the $201 000 needed to undertake these extensive works. Victorian Council of Social Service and other The project will comprise various aspects, which will organisations in Victoria — to better inform the include the resurfacing of the two hard courts that were department in terms of railway design, particularly flooded and the restumping of the clubrooms, and as a focusing on the functionality of railway stations. consequence the clubroom walls will also need to be realigned. In addition, with the work done there will I have done this because since having come to power need to be exterior and interior painting, new floor and taken up this portfolio I have visited a number of coverings and the kitchen will need a complete refit. As the newer railway stations which have been built. we have seen so often when floods strike, the damage Obviously there are some significant problems in to kitchens, the whitegoods within them and the like, is relation to a lack of ramping. If you go to the Laverton always extensive. The project will also see the railway station, you will find some very steep stairs. resurfacing of a section of the car park and installation There are lifts in the public space that are often of some basic gates and some fencing into the entry vandalised. Quite often this results in elderly people and areas that can be used should flooding threaten again, people with disabilities having to be ferried around to which will prevent the extent of the damage that was the other side of the station in taxis, and sometimes done across the park services as a result of the events of those people have to wait for hours for taxis to turn up. last year. Yet we have had a massive multimillion-dollar investment in a railway station that does not cater for I am delighted to be able to tell the member that as a people in that situation. result of the sort of representation he has made to us as a government we will be able to see this work done. I I had a meeting on this issue today. The department is pay due regard to the contribution by the Rural City of currently setting up this panel. Each and every new Wangaratta. Coincidentally tonight I was in attendance railway station that is built will have input from people at a function for regional cities not far from Parliament from different sectors around the community. There where both Anthony Griffiths, the mayor, and Doug will be people representing cycling groups, there will Sharp, the chief executive officer, of the Rural City of be people representing those people who walk a lot and Wangaratta, were in attendance in their official roles there will be people representing the elderly and representing the rural city. disabled. We want to make sure when we build new railway stations that we get it right. There could It is a great thing that the council is supporting this perhaps be a role for the panel to have a look at some initiative. In addition to that, I pay great regard to the retrofitting and upgrades of railway stations to make wonderful volunteers who are part and parcel of the sure the money we spend gets the best outcome. club and the wonderful work the club does on behalf of

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1050 ASSEMBLY Wednesday, 6 April 2011

What I have asked the panel to think about — and this relation to getting people through Morwell, dealing is even in regard to some of the documentation I saw with delays, providing timely information and today about the regional rail link project — is the issue, providing updates in relation to traffic diversions. which I highlight again, of functionality in relation to Everything that can be done will be done for the people railway stations, because it is quite clear we have not of Gippsland, and particularly the people of Morwell, to been getting that outcome in relation to some of the make sure that Easter trading continues, that people buildings that have been constructed. That is under continue to visit the area and, most importantly, that we way. I will get my department to have a look at the get timely information out there to the Morwell and issue the member for Geelong raised. It will also be broader Gippsland communities. suggested to the panel that we start to look at some of the existing stations, particularly with those issues in I say to the member for Morwell that I will be up there mind. next week and will be inspecting that road with local VicRoads authorities. Whilst up there I will be sending From this point onwards those members of the a very clear message, and I understand other members community who have not been represented in terms of will be up there as well supporting the people of the design of stations will get a say in terms of how Gippsland and Morwell and making sure we send that those stations are fitted out, the access to those stations message to the broader Victorian community — that and how those stations will function best. I visited a Gippsland is open for business. station at Wendouree. It may have some great architectural features, but when you look at the bus stop Mr WALSH (Minister for Water) — I want to and platform area you find that if the wind comes from respond to the adjournment issue raised by the member a certain direction, people who are supposed to be for Frankston, which concerns the Baillieu getting protection from the weather do not get it. government’s commitment to clean up the Kananook Creek — the $2.5 million commitment we made prior I walked up to the front of that station and the glass to the election. The member for Frankston has invited doors did not open because I did not approach them in me down to view firsthand the works that need doing in the right manner. If you are going to have stations that that area. The member clearly set out the need for cater for the needs of people from across a broad sector something to be done with the Kananook Creek, the of the community, you have to make sure they actually fact that during the last 11 years the Labor Party did function. We have not been doing that. I am very keen nothing about it and his desire for the coalition to address that issue. I thank the member for Geelong government to show some leadership and do something for raising this matter. down there. The Baillieu government is going to show some leadership and is going to deliver on cleaning up The member for Yan Yean raised a matter in relation to the Kananook Creek. the duplication of Plenty Road and traffic lights. I will once again raise the issue with my department and get a Along with the members for Carrum, Mordialloc and response for the member for Yan Yean. Sandringham, the member for Frankston was part of a meeting we had recently with Melbourne Water at The member for Yuroke raised an issue in relation to which we went through in detail the issues in the area the duplication of Somerton Road. Once again, I will that need to be addressed concerning both Mordialloc take this matter up with VicRoads. I will get a response Creek and Kananook Creek, to which the member for for the member in relation to that matter. Frankston referred. Particularly in respect of Kananook Creek there was the need for Melbourne Water to do The member for Morwell raised an issue in relation to survey and design work on what needs to be done to me and other members visiting Morwell particularly to return that creek to its former glory as was set out by provide some support for the people within that the member for Frankston. I look forward to visiting community as a result of the closure of the Princes with him to see it firsthand. Freeway because of some subsidence in the ground that has affected the road in that location. Mr DELAHUNTY (Minister for Sport and Recreation) — I stand up to thank the member for It is very important that we show very strong support Kilsyth for raising an important matter with me tonight. for the people of Gippsland and, as we approach Easter, I acknowledge the great work the member has done and send a very strong message that Gippsland is open for the strong commitment he has to his electorate, business. This will involve VicRoads, in particular, particularly in relation to sport and recreation, areas in working hand in hand with Victoria Police to make sure which he has given enormous support to the that everything that can possibly be done is done in community. I know he is particularly interested in

ADJOURNMENT

Wednesday, 6 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1051 increasing participation across a variety of sporting and extra maintenance funding as part of our policy, and the community clubs right across his electorate. The details of that will be released in this year’s budget. member has outlined the diversity of clubs and community groups within his electorate, whether they Mr KOTSIRAS (Minister for Multicultural Affairs be involved in netball, table tennis, football, basketball, and Citizenship) — I will refer all other matters to the cricket or baseball, and the concerns they have. appropriate ministers for their direct response.

As we all know, the member for Kilsyth was very The SPEAKER — Order! I congratulate all the active in developing the coalition policy on sport and ministers who came into the house tonight. It was good recreation, particularly the initiatives affecting the to have a good round of answers, and I thank them for electorate of Kilsyth. He did a great deal of work in that. The house is now adjourned. relation to that and lobbied hard for it. The Victorian government places a strong priority on increasing House adjourned 10.47 p.m. participation in sport and recreation right across Victoria. Like the member for Kilsyth, as Minister for Sport and Recreation I want to see an increase in participation in sport and recreation right across the state. I have a strong commitment to increasing that participation across the state; I want to see more people being more active more often. My aim is to do that with the support of people such as the member for Kilsyth, so tonight I accept the member’s invitation, and I will visit his electorate in the very near future.

Mr DIXON (Minister for Education) — I am responding to a matter raised by the member for Forest Hill, who has asked me to come out to his electorate and address some of the issues in schools in his electorate. I must say that the member for Forest Hill is doing a wonderful job. He has made strong connections with his local schools, and I know the schools appreciate the interest he is showing in them because it is a bit of a novelty for them. He certainly already knows his schools.

It was pointed out yesterday by the Australian Education Union that the biggest issue facing many of our schools is the condition of and the lack of maintenance done in the schools over the last 11 years. I will be pleased to go out to the member’s electorate, visit those schools and tell them that we are going to address the maintenance backlog in three ways, one of which is through the usual maintenance that would be part of a school’s student resource package, which every school receives. We will also carry out a full, one-off audit of all the maintenance needs of all schools.

The former government had a series of rolling audits, so one could not get a snapshot of the total picture of maintenance required in government schools. It made it very hard to pin down a number, and it hid the degree of maintenance that was needed. We are having a one-off maintenance audit so we can get an idea and establish a benchmark from which we can improve. As the member is probably aware, we have also announced

1052 ASSEMBLY

PETITION

Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1053

Thursday, 7 April 2011 PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEES

The SPEAKER (Hon. Ken Smith) took the chair at Membership 9.34 a.m. and read the prayer. Mr McINTOSH (Minister for Corrections) — By leave, I move: PETITION (1) That Ms Allan, Mr Clark, Ms Hennessy, Mr Holding, Following petition presented to house: Mr McIntosh, Dr Napthine and Mr Walsh be members of the Dispute Resolution Committee.

Rail: Werribee line (2) That Ms Beattie, Ms Campbell, Mrs Fyffe, Ms Graley, Mr Wakeling and Mr Weller be members of the House To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria: Committee.

The petition of certain citizens of the state of Victoria who (3) That a select committee be appointed to inquire into and travel on the Altona train line draws to the attention of the report upon complaints of breach of privilege referred to house the Baillieu government’s plan to cut train services, cut it by the house and right-of-reply applications referred the frequency of city loop trains, abandon the regional rail under standing order 227, such committee to consist of link project and stop premium station upgrades. Ms Barker, Mr Clark, Ms Green, Mr McIntosh, Mr Morris, Dr Napthine, Mr Nardella, In particular we note that these changes would: Mr Pandazopoulos and Mr Walsh and that five be the quorum. 1. Increase crowding on existing train services (4) That a select committee be appointed to consider and 2. Be less convenient for commuters report upon the standing orders of the house, such 3. Result in further delays and longer travel times committee to consist of the Speaker, Ms Barker, Mr Brooks, Mrs Fyffe, Mr Hodgett, Mr McIntosh, The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Mr Perera and Mrs Powell and that five be the quorum. Assembly urges the Baillieu government to reverse its plans to stop the premium station upgrades, cut services and Motion agreed to. abandon the regional rail link project. By Ms HENNESSY (Altona) (290 signatures). MEMBERS STATEMENTS Tabled. Sonja Josipovic

Ordered that petition be considered next day on Ms CAMPBELL (Pascoe Vale) — I pay tribute to motion of Mr NOONAN (Williamstown). Sonja Josipovic, who is stepping down as school council president at Pascoe Vale North Primary School. After six years of dedicated service this remarkable DOCUMENTS woman can leave the school knowing she has well and Tabled by Clerk: truly made a difference. Sonja has worked tirelessly with the staff, the school community and me in Gambling Regulation Act 2003 — Report of the Review overseeing the transformation of the school from a Panel to the Minister in relation to invitations to apply for the cluster of buildings sinking into a swamp to a showcase grant of the Keno Licence under s 10.2A.11 — Ordered to be educational facility. printed

Parliamentary Committees Act 2003 — Government response Sonja is a courteous, no-nonsense, can-do person who to the Public Accounts and Estimates Committee’s Report on looks for solutions. Her natural people skills ensure that the Inquiry into Victoria’s Audit Act 1994. she brings others along with her in a collaborative working environment. The two-stage complete rebuild of the school called for expertise in project management, risk assessment, time management, financial management and human resources management along with a great deal of diplomacy. The rebuild was undertaken during the Bracks and Brumby Labor governments, and Sonja was outstanding in working with us to achieve it. Sonja learnt all those skills on the run in her commitment to making Pascoe Vale North Primary School the best it can be.

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1054 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011

Sonja’s history of volunteering at the school includes Ron Gleeson helping in the classroom, the art room, the music room and the IT area as well as sewing, making props, Ms RICHARDSON (Northcote) — Ron Gleeson fundraising, book covering and painting murals in the had a passion for his community and for the service of children’s toilets. Given the opportunity, she would others. His passing on 23 March at the age of 95 probably have given the builders a hand! reminds us of the incredible difference one individual can make to the benefit of us all. Ron served as a Sonja is well respected. She was recently announced as Northcote councillor for 36 years, including as mayor, the winner of the north-western region’s parent of the and was well known in the Alphington and Fairfield year award and goes on as a finalist for the state parent communities in particular. A trip to the Station Street of the year award. My congratulations and thanks go to shops would regularly become a talkfest for Ron, as Sonja Josipovic. She is extraordinary. people wanted to bend his ear or shake his hand in gratitude for the work he had done. In fact in 2004 an Bernie Trevaskis and Graeme Young area of the shopping strip on Station Street was named in his honour. Mrs POWELL (Minister for Local Government) — On Sunday, 3 April, I was delighted to attend the Ron served on boards throughout Darebin and was on official naming of the Bernie Trevaskis oval and the the council’s audit committee until the age of 89. He Graeme ‘Pee Wee’ Young oval at a special lunch at the chaired the Darebin Parklands and Fairfield hospital Sir Ian McLennan centre in Mooroopna. The two ovals committees. He was a Fairfield RSL life member and a were originally known as ovals 4 and 5 at the St Andrews Uniting Church secretary and presbytery Mooroopna recreation reserve. They are now named in standing committee member. As a justice of the peace honour of two of Mooroopna’s sporting legends and Ron always made himself available, day or night, to community champions. consider bail applications. He and his wife Maud also ran a fund to assist women and children forced to Bernie Trevaskis received a Medal of the Order of vacate the family home because of domestic violence, Australia in 1993 for his many dedicated years of and they were available at all hours of the day or night service to junior sport, including football and cricket. for that purpose. He was a champion sportsperson and took on many of the leadership positions in the clubs he was involved in, For his many services to the community, Ron was as well as coaching. He has won numerous awards and awarded the Order of Australia medal in 1986. Our medals. Bernie’s wife, Joan, their children and community will never forget Ron. We honour him grandchildren were there to help him celebrate. today for his selfless contribution to our local community. Pee Wee Young’s wife, Irene, and their children and grandchildren were also there. Pee Wee is another great Schools: Lowan electorate Mooroopna character and sporting legend. He was runner-up in the Goulburn Valley Football League’s Mr DELAHUNTY (Minister for Sport and Morrison medal, and he has won many awards and Recreation) — The Lowan electorate has 52 schools. medals in cricket and football. Pee Wee is a life On Tuesday this week students from Rainbow Primary member of the Mooroopna past players and officials School visited Parliament House. Parliamentary staff association, the Mooroopna Football Club and the and everyone else who met these students commented Mooroopna Cricket Club. He is also a great entertainer on their good behaviour and on how they were great and comedian who travels around Victoria making ambassadors for the school. I was able to spend time people laugh. with them talking about parliamentary procedure and showing them my office and The Nationals party room. I had the pleasure of being asked to thank Bernie and Parliamentary staff do a great job in showing students Pee Wee on behalf of the community. The naming of the key features of Parliament and answering their these two ovals in their honour is a fitting tribute and questions. That work does not go unnoticed. Students recognition of the great work and sacrifices made by from Hamilton’s Baimbridge College visited them and their families. It is also an opportunity for the Parliament House on Monday, and I was able to sit people of Mooroopna to say thank you to Bernie and with them in this chamber and explain the workings of Pee Wee for their great contribution. Parliament House.

Over the past couple of months I have visited many schools in my electorate, including Kaniva College, to

MEMBERS STATEMENTS

Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1055 present leadership badges. In fact I will be Horsham’s That is what the local paper said until we started to fight Holy Trinity Lutheran School on the first day of the a local campaign to secure the funds to complete the next term to perform similar duties. I encourage schools centre. I look forward to working with the Ivanhoe to take the opportunity to visit Parliament so students community to secure funds for other commitments in can learn about how Parliament operates and, the Ivanhoe electorate on which this government drags importantly, take in the grandeur of Parliament House its heels to support and to fund. We will continue to and its surrounds. As we all know, education is vital for fight in Ivanhoe for our fair share. the continuing development of Victorian students. The students from across the Lowan electorate are fantastic, Kokoda Trail: Salute to the 39th dinner their parents are great supporters, and they are also supported by good school staff. Importantly, students Mr BLACKWOOD (Narracan) — I take this need the opportunity to come here, meet with opportunity to inform the house and mark the occasion parliamentarians and staff and walk through this of the 4th annual Salute to the 39th Kokoda dinner I am building, which we know as our workplace but which is hosting in Queen’s Hall on Friday night, 8 April. The admired by the many people who come to this facility. inaugural dinner was held in 2008. It was seen as an opportunity to recognise in a formal setting the amazing Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness contribution the 39th battalion made on the Kokoda Centre: funding Track in 1942.

Mr CARBINES (Ivanhoe) — I rise this morning to When I first walked the track in 2003 I very soon congratulate the Ivanhoe community on its hard-fought realised that the sacrifices and heroism displayed by the campaign to secure the final $45 million in funding for 39th militia battalion in the early stages of the Kokoda the Olivia Newton-John cancer centre at the Austin battle were really all that stood between a marauding, Hospital. A very strong campaign was run to secure fanatical 2000-strong section of the Japanese army and these funds, including petitions with over grave danger for Port Moresby and ultimately mainland 3000 signatures received at my office. The campaign Australia. The 39th was outnumbered six to one, but was fought hard by the local community to ensure that still held the Japanese at bay at Isurava until the the centre received that extra $45 million from a 2/14th battalion reinforcements arrived. Surrender was government — — never an option. The 39th was made up of mainly young men from Gippsland, with an average age of 1 Honourable members interjecting. 18 ⁄2. They were thrown together at very short notice, given only two weeks training and shipped off to Port The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Moresby, some never even having fired a real rifle. Caulfield! Courage, sacrifice, mateship and endurance are the qualities of the Australian digger that were Mr CARBINES — Every time the Liberal Party immortalised on the Kokoda Track and have been has come into government its members have wanted to displayed in every theatre of war Australia has been blow over the Austin Hospital. When last in engaged in. government they wanted to flog it off — to privatise it — and it was the Labor Party, with its re-elected It is an absolute privilege to be able to host a dinner in member in Ivanhoe, that made sure we not only secured honour of 15 veterans of the 39th, who will be held in the future for the Austin Hospital but built two new awe by over 100 guests, most of whom have walked in hospitals on one site: the Austin and the Mercy. the ‘footsteps of the brave’ on the Kokoda Track and who are eager to meet and chat with their heroes. It was a Labor government that committed to and started to build the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Frank Chandler Wellness Centre, and what happened? We have had to fight hard to get that $45 million to complete that Mr SCOTT (Preston) — I rise to celebrate the centre. I know, and the community knows, that cancer contribution to the community of Mr Frank Chandler, affects one in three Victorians, and sadly particularly his long-term involvement in the Preston 10 000 Victorians die from cancer each year. An article Rostrum Club. Rostrum was founded in the United in the Heidelberg Leader states: Kingdom in 1923 and is the longest running public speaking organisation in the world. Frank joined a city If funding to complete the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and branch of Rostrum in 1957, the same year that he Wellness Centre is anything like new state Health Minister David Davis, then patients will be waiting for a long time. moved to his present address in Preston. By 1977 there were sufficient local members to justify the formation

MEMBERS STATEMENTS

1056 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 of a Preston Rostrum Club, and Frank was appointed as Frankston Hospital: upgrade assistant critic/coach. He is the sole remaining founding member. Mr BURGESS — Last Friday, 1 April, I attended the official opening of stage 2A of the Frankston The contribution made by Rostrum, and in particular by Hospital, conducted by the Honourable David Davis, Frank, to the Preston community is huge. Great the Minister for Health. This was a $45 million project, numbers of local people have overcome their fear of and it included the expansion and upgrade of surgical public speaking, their shyness and hesitancy and their services and the intensive care unit. Frankston Hospital lack of confidence to become more effective, is the major hospital servicing my electorate, and I am productive and happier people as a result of their confident that this upgrade will further improve activities with Rostrum. Frank is still active in Preston health-care services there. I commend Peninsula Health Rostrum, even as he approaches his 91st birthday. As a for the services it provides and trust that this new Rostrum Freeman — one of only 17 active in development will assist in improving health services Victoria — he is also a coach and training officer, as throughout my community. With the other guests in well as being the point of contact for new members. attendance at the opening, I was given a tour of the new Rostrum meets every Thursday, except during the ward and was impressed by the significant Christmas period, at Preston library. I hope Frank can improvements in technology and initiatives for patient continue his involvement for many years to come. wellbeing. Baxter Preschool: sausage sizzle Fawkner Bowling Club: Presidents and Veterans Day Mr BURGESS (Hastings) — On Sunday, 13 March, my wife, Lisa, and I attended a fundraising Ms HALFPENNY (Thomastown) — I rise to sausage sizzle for Baxter Preschool at Bunnings in congratulate the Fawkner Bowling Club on its very Frankston. The sausage sizzle raised significant funds successful Presidents and Veterans Day celebration, for a great preschool, and we were pleased to help in a which was held on Saturday, 26 March. I was pleased small way. Bunnings allows local community groups to and proud to be invited to attend and present the club hold fundraising sausage sizzles on a roster basis, and with a new Australian flag to be flown with pride at its its support for these groups is very important for the home in the heart of Fawkner. Unfortunately I was healthy functioning of our community, and I thank the unable to get there earlier in the day, but club members company. I congratulate preschool president Sharon told me they were pleased to have the Moreland City Howell and her Baxter Preschool committee for the Council mayor, Cr Oscar Yildiz, attend the main event enormous effort they put in to raising funds for and earlier in the day. managing their preschool for their children and their community. The club has been part of the Fawkner community since 1964 and boasts at least 120 active bowling Port of Hastings: ministerial visit members. The leading men’s team competes in division 3 of the pennant, and the ladies team competes Mr BURGESS — On Wednesday, 30 March, I was in division 1. I wish all the teams good luck for the rest pleased to host the Minister for Ports on a tour of the of the season. I would particularly like to thank the port of Hastings. During his visit the minister office-holders for inviting me to their wonderful club, confirmed that the Baillieu government will introduce and I congratulate them on a great event. legislation to return independence to the port of Hastings. The previous Labor government legislated to Special recognition goes to the club president, Stan gift complete ownership and control of the port of Vincent; the senior vice-president, Brian Parker; the Hastings to its competitor, the port of Melbourne. If this junior vice-president, Brian Buckley; the club secretary situation had been allowed to stand, the serious and ladies president, Brenda Smethurst; the assistant negative effects would have reverberated through every secretary, Dian Wright; the ladies secretary, Bev aspect of my local community and across the state. O’Connor; the assistant treasurer, John Dobbin; and the Local families, businesses, job seekers and the committee members, Larraine Vincent, William environment would have paid the price for the previous Lawson, Des Withers and Jimmy Mifsud. Labor government’s lack of courage, foresight and commercial sense. Mordialloc electorate: student leadership

Ms WREFORD (Mordialloc) — I have recently attended many events in my electorate. Amongst the

MEMBERS STATEMENTS

Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1057 most important were those that recognised young heart attacks on the day and could not attend — the leaders in schools. evening was very well attended. As we approach Anzac Day it is important to reflect on the support that RSLs I met with the student executive at Mentone Girls provide to our community and the important role they Grammar School. Amongst other things, I sought the play. Sebastopol RSL currently has a membership of student executive’s feedback on the secondary supply 83, and the women’s auxiliary has a membership of 25. laws — a matter that Labor totally ignored during its 11 dark years in office. Congratulations to Doug Higgins, president of the sub-branch, Mrs Val Allen, the current president of the I attended International Women’s Day and a women’s auxiliary, and all the other organisers on the badge-conferring assembly at Mentone Girls Secondary success of the smoke night. We wish the Sebastapol College at which I assisted with the presentation of RSL many more. leadership badges to the students. I would like to congratulate the college captain, Megan Foley; the Frankston TV college vice-captain, Bridget Tribe; the year 11 college vice-captain, Jessica Ivanoff; and the student Mr SHAW (Frankston) — Last month Frankston representative council president, Sophie Keye. They are TV was launched by TV’s Seven News Melbourne a fantastic group of young leaders under the tutelage of newsreader Peter Mitchell at Frankston High School, the principal, Deborah Lehner. with a special news broadcast prepared by year 8 students. Frankston TV is an initiative to get people I also presented badges to the leaders at Kingston Heath filming what they love about Frankston and to Primary School. I would like to recognise the school broadcast it to the world through YouTube. captains, Alycia and Mohammed; the house captains, Sharna, Jasper, Hayley, Harry, Bianca, Brock, Claudia Police: Frankston and Alvin; and their principal, Wendy Sterling. Mr SHAW — I congratulate the government for At Dingley Primary School I presented badges to the keeping its election promise to make our streets safe. leaders alongside the school’s principal, Gaye Peel. Frankston will receive the largest allocation of police Congratulations go to the school captains, Kim and from this latest graduation of recruits. The Frankston Corey, and the vice-captains, Jayde and Nemanja. City Council has so much faith in this that it stopped its controversial City Safe Officers program that cost Well done to all. ratepayers over $300 000 for the six-month trial. The trial was set up because of the lack of police and safety Sebastopol: smoke night in Frankston, and it highlighted the neglect of Frankston by the previous Labor government. Ms KNIGHT (Ballarat West) — On Friday, 1 April, I attended the Sebastopol RSL annual smoke Frankston Hospital: upgrade night. Sebastopol RSL had its first smoke night in 1947, one year after the sub-branch was formed. Smoke Mr SHAW — It was a pleasure to welcome the nights used to be really big around the country, but I Minister for Health to Frankston to open the new believe that Sebastopol RSL’s smoke night is one of the $45 million Frankston Hospital development with my few still going. The club also believes that it was the colleagues the members for Hastings, Carrum and first RSL to allow women to attend its smoke nights, Mordialloc and Inga Peulich, a member for South and it is a credit to the president at that time, Frank Eastern Metropolitan Region in the Council. The Wilson, that he invited women to attend. minister pointed out that the health budget equates to about 27 to 30 per cent of the state’s budget and that the The guest speaker on the night was Major Kaylene Gillard government’s rip-off of $2.5 billion of GST Baird, who spoke of her eight months working as a revenue will hurt all sectors of the community. nurse in Iraq. Major Baird showed photos of the conditions in which the hospital staff worked and of Frankston: hoon driving some of the injuries sustained by armed services personnel and also civilians — men, women and Mr SHAW — Last week Frankston City Council children. These images were sometimes confronting but held a community forum attended by over 150 residents important to see. in relation to the lenient hoon driving laws of the previous Labor government, clearly pointing out the Despite the fact that the average age of the sub-branch flaws in that legislation. The council, without members is now over 80 — in fact three members had consulting the new government, suggested its own

MEMBERS STATEMENTS

1058 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 proposed legislation, and albeit that it was stronger than brand-new school. This is not good enough when the Labor’s, it received a disappointing response from the community clearly needs a new school now. residents. When the Member for Hastings and I spoke about our election promises, there were sighs of relief The SPEAKER — Order! The member’s time has and head-nodding, because finally there is a expired. government that will not tolerate this kind of antisocial behaviour. Blackburn North parkland: future Golden Square Primary School: funding Ms RYALL (Mitcham) — I would like to bring to the attention of the house the absolute disregard by Ms EDWARDS (Bendigo West) — I rise on behalf Labor of a major environmental and recreational of two schools in Bendigo West, Maple Street Primary landscape in my electorate of Mitcham. The Junction School and Golden Square Primary School. Those Road parklands in Blackburn North are 11 hectares of schools merged last year and have been operating as open space and greenery, where people can escape the one school from two sites. They now need a new school hustle and bustle of everyday living. It is one of the few on the Maple Street site. The Golden Square Primary true open spaces in the Mitcham electorate. However, School has already completed its master plan for a new the former Bracks and Brumby Labor governments had school, and it has been ticked off by the department. no interest in protecting this parkland for the public to enjoy into the future. The school community has done the hard yards to get this new school off the ground with that planning. For 10 years the constituents of the Mitcham electorate Principal Barry Goode has been working extra hard for asked for this land to be protected. The ‘We’ll try to get this, and the school council and the community are around to it’ attitude of the former Bracks and Brumby right behind him. The expectation is that the next stage governments became too much. Labor is supposedly a will be a government commitment to funding. The party that has environmental ideals, yet in 2001 it was principal and members of the school community and more interested in trying to sell this land off for the school council, who have been passionately driving redevelopment as housing rather than in protecting it this project, will be devastated if funding is not made for future generations. The community sent a strong available. The school will face an uncertain future message last November that it wants this land protected without the guarantee of funding. All it asks for now is for future generations. It has taken the Baillieu the security of knowing that the funding for the government to commit to have the Junction Road completion of the project will be in the government’s parklands preserved for those in the Mitcham electorate May budget. to exercise in and to enjoy the open space now and into the future. Castlemaine Secondary College: funding Box Hill to Ringwood bike trail: funding Ms EDWARDS — The $7 million promised by the coalition government to build a new Castlemaine Ms RYALL — I would also like to bring to the Secondary College must be delivered in the May attention of the house the fantastic work of Whitehorse budget to give that school some certainty for the future. Cyclists and its advocates in gathering community Last week I visited Castlemaine Secondary College support for the rail bike trail that will run between Box with the shadow Minister for Education, the member Hill and Ringwood. Approximately 4000 signatures for Niddrie, to discuss the future of the Castlemaine were gathered by Whitehorse Cyclists advocate David Secondary College. The 1960s school is outdated, and Hall for a petition tabled in this house. This petition was the need for a new single-site school is paramount. presented to me last week on the site of the bike track’s extension. This petition shows that residents and the Last year Labor committed to funding for the planning wider Victorian community want the bike path of the new Castlemaine Secondary College which extended well beyond its current 250 metres behind the would merge the junior and senior campuses into a Box Hill town hall. I would like to reaffirm my support brand-new school on one site to be determined by the for the coalition government’s $5 million funding community. However, the government’s $7 million commitment. commitment would build a barn, not a school. The new Castlemaine Secondary College was estimated by VCE Season of Excellence 2011 Labor to cost around $20 million. The Castlemaine community does not want one-third of a school but a Mr HERBERT (Eltham) — I rise to congratulate nine local students whose outstanding work during the

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2010 school year has been recognised during the VCE I also wish to congratulate Rachel Tharratt from Lurg (Victorian certificate of education) Season of on being awarded a Macpherson Smith Rural Future Excellence 2011. The annual VCE Season of Leaders Scholarship to help her pursue her university Excellence comprises 12 concerts, 2 exhibitions and education. Rachel is a fine young lady, and we look multiple screenings of short films presented in forward to her returning to country Victoria to Melbourne’s major cultural venues from February to contribute to our climb out of social disadvantage and June. These works are a representative sample of the becoming a community leader. You never know, work of the most outstanding VCE students from the Rachel may even become the member for Benalla one previous year. day! Local students who have been honoured through this City of Kingston: alcohol-free zones fantastic program include: in the top arts category, Laura Casey from Eltham College of Education; in the Mr LIM (Clayton) — I rise to congratulate the City top designs category, Georgina Burley, Denny Louis of Kingston on introducing alcohol-free zones. As a and Max Kaskamanidis from Eltham High School, progressive city, Kingston has always been at the Amanda Shackleton from St Helena Secondary forefront of introducing and maintaining safety College, Matthew Duggan from Parade College, Hope measures to provide a secure environment for its Giacoppo from Warrandyte High School and Kayleigh residents to live, shop and socialise. The recent Nguyen from the MacRobertson Girls High School; introduction of two alcohol-free zones in Clayton South and in the top class sound composers category, I and Clarinda, in the electorate of Clayton, is testament congratulate Allison Wright from Eltham High School to the determination of the City of Kingston to improve and the Distance Education Centre Victoria. The talent its family-friendly and kid-friendly culture, as well as and commitment displayed by these brilliant students is its residents’ sense of security. not merely an inspiration to their peers, but to Victorians of all ages. I wish them success and There has been a growing trend of binge drinking in happiness in the future. Undoubtedly these bright general, as well as people drinking outside their local young achievers will excel in it. bottle shops. Local businesses and community groups have long supported the establishment of alcohol-free Youth: Benalla electorate zones to address irresponsible drinking behaviour. Residents and beach users in Kingston have also Dr SYKES (Benalla) — I wish to congratulate the submitted petitions to the council, calling for the further community of Violet Town for supporting their young restriction of alcohol consumption. The City of people in running a very successful ‘skate and jam’ Kingston’s decision to introduce alcohol-free zones session last week. People such as Annette Walton, means the consumption of alcohol will be prohibited in Andy Guerin and Rowena Allen all pitched in, as did designated blocks. Consumption of alcohol will be Deb Ellis from the Shire of Strathbogie. Young people regulated and controlled in those public places. I have such as Indigo Walton-Guerin were also actively confidence that this policy will play a crucial role in involved in what was a great opportunity for young curbing the unhealthy trend of binge drinking and people to show their skills on scooters and bikes in the related antisocial behaviour. More importantly, this company of friends and family. The community is also policy will help make local residents feel more secure supporting the young people’s bid for an upgrade to the and will help make the city of Kingston a great place to skate park. That is something I fully support, and I have live, work and raise a family. already spoken to the Minister for Sport and Recreation about it. Stonnington Primary School: student leadership Another example of a community supporting its young people is in Mansfield, where Andrew Nunn is Mr NEWTON-BROWN (Prahran) — On Monday encouraging disengaged young people to connect I had the pleasure of visiting Stonnington Primary through playing golf. As we all know, golf is a great School in Hornby Street, Windsor, which is run by a test of patience and self-control and an ideal vehicle for fantastic new principal, Anne McPhee. I was there to young people to overcome anger management hand out badges for leadership positions and I would challenges. Andrew Nunn is well supported in his like to congratulate the students involved. I congratulate efforts by the Mansfield Golf Club, Rotary and many the school captain, Chalinee, and the multimedia other sectors of Mansfield, which has a fine track captains, Antoine and Riahn, and the following student record as a can-do community. leaders. The house captains are Yasir and Helen, Peppercorn house; Brianna and Scarlett, Wattle house;

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Lauren and Uly, Waratah house; and Biatrisse and self-sufficient and is run by parents and volunteers who Jemima, Bluegum house. The class captains are Fiona, have children with intellectual disabilities. Sally, Byron, Penny, Pearl, Otis, Briely, Arjun, Gemma, Erin, Kelly and Liam. The green team is Aja, The role of Winaccom is to provide housing and other Linda, Elif, Enya, Paris, Ellie, Erin, Sarah, Robbie, opportunities for these young people to ensure that they Bianca, Zac and Scarlett. Well done in being elected to will be in a good position when the sad time comes of these leadership positions. It is a great honour and a their parents passing on. This is an innovative great responsibility. Perhaps in the future some of them organisation that is always seeking additional support. will end up as community leaders serving as members Visiting it was a great opportunity for me to gain a of Parliament in this house. better understanding of the issues surrounding intellectual disabilities and the support provided by this Toc H site, Point Lonsdale organisation.

Ms NEVILLE (Bellarine) — I raise a concern about I commend the organisation. I also commend the the future direction of the Toc H site in Point Lonsdale. commitment and dedication of the parents and This is a parcel of Crown land near the Point Lonsdale volunteers and the effort they are putting in. However, lighthouse reserve, which is administered by a at that meeting it was heartbreaking for me to see the committee of management set up by the DSE number of parents who have sought individual support (Department of Sustainability and Environment). packages through the Department of Human Services and who have been on waiting lists for years. This Initial planning in relation to the site occurred over the organisation has not requested capital funding for 1999–2001 period, and this led to a range of identified housing; the parents have requested individual support actions, including the allocation of staff and resources packages. Even with the commitment Winaccom has and the appointment of officers to maintain the site. The made, those support packages are needed. People have engine shed at the site received a grant from the former spent years on waiting lists as a result of the neglect of Brumby government through Regional Development the Labor government. This is heartbreaking, and all I Victoria for a feasibility study on its future to be could think of in talking to the people at that meeting undertaken. However, the site requires further was how many support places the former government investment and significant work to ensure that it is could have provided if it had not introduced myki, rehabilitated. This was the direction in which the smart meters and made every other bungle. government and DSE were heading prior to the last election. Solar energy: government initiatives

This work would facilitate the Borough of Queenscliffe Mr CRISP (Mildura) — I welcome the taking over the management responsibilities and commitment by the Minister for Energy and Resources ongoing maintenance of the site. This is something the to a solar future for Mildura. The minister has said that council is willing to do, given the site’s cultural and there were commitments made by the former Labor historical significance. However, DSE has now moved government in relation to two solar projects, and the away from undertaking any of this work, and a small coalition said in its election policies that it would match council like the Borough of Queenscliffe is not in a those Labor commitments. Those commitments stand. position to fund the work necessary to rehabilitate the This is welcome news for Mildura, as we have two very area. important solar projects. Mildura is a solar-capable community. Mildura wants and is seeking to lead This site, dating back to World War I, is important to Victoria in its solar future. Reassurance from this the history of not only Point Lonsdale but also Victoria. government that it would stand by those commitments I urge the Minister for Environment and Climate was welcomed by Mildura, and it will enhance our Change to take an interest in this issue and ensure that solar future. The employment opportunities that will be DSE comes back to the table with the Borough of brought to Victoria will be very welcome, particularly Queenscliffe and does not allow the site to further as these technologies need — — deteriorate. The SPEAKER — Order! The member’s time has Winaccom Association: funding expired. The time for members statements has concluded. Mr GIDLEY (Mount Waverley) — I recently had the privilege of visiting Winaccom, a great organisation operating in my electorate. It aims to be wholly

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GOVERNOR’S SPEECH but they are not in the local community of Doreen. The community deserves its own secondary college. Address-in-reply I want to thank all the mums who have been standing at Debate resumed from 23 March; motion of the school gate collecting signatures on the petition Mr GIDLEY (Mount Waverley) for adoption of about this matter. I want to acknowledge the great work address-in-reply. that the community sporting clubs in the area have done. I also want to thank the traders who offered their Ms GREEN (Yan Yean) — I take pleasure in support by displaying posters in support of the school. returning to my speech on the motion to adopt the address-in-reply to the Governor’s speech that I began a There is one group in this community — whoever it couple of weeks ago. is — that has been opposed to the idea of building a secondary college. I have received 1000 blank petitions I call on the government to end uncertainty over the each day in my office, subverting the community location of the Melbourne wholesale fruit and vegetable campaign. There is only one group in this community market and to confirm that Epping will be its rightful that has an interest in subverting this campaign. It might home. This uncertainty has gone on for too long. We think it is damaging me or my ability to speak up for need jobs in the north, and the government needs to my community, but I will not be silenced and the recognise that. communities of Doreen and Mernda will not be silenced. Those communities will campaign long and I move to the issue of educational needs in my hard, and their voices will be heard. I will back them to community. I am very proud that over the last five the nth degree. years five new schools have opened in the Yan Yean electorate, servicing the growing community. In Mr Dixon interjected. Doreen, where I live, a new school, Laurimar Primary School, has opened and now has more than The SPEAKER — Order! The minister at the table 600 students. It is a fantastic school. The Laurimar will desist from making such interjections. children’s centre will open next term. We in government put funding into that centre as well. Ms GREEN — This heartless government needs to discover that there is a community in the north that On Monday the shadow Minister for Education and I deserves its support. It has ignored the north and put visited Mernda Primary School. It is a fantastic school in — — that was built by Labor under a public-private partnership arrangement. The shadow minister was The SPEAKER — Order! The member’s time has absolutely amazed by the good quality of this school, expired. including the sporting facilities that are there to serve the community. He also perused the previous site of the Mr DIXON (Minister for Education) — It is an school. The community chose to move the school to the honour to respond to the Governor’s speech made late new site, and the old site is now for sale. last year and to be elected as the member for Nepean for the fifth time. I formally congratulate you, Speaker, I am glad the Minister for Education is in the house, on your elevation to the role of Speaker in this place. because I call on him to recognise that the Doreen and Mernda communities need a secondary college. There It is a wonderful honour to be re-elected as the member were only 1600 people on the electoral roll in that area for Nepean. I am absolutely thrilled and honoured to be four years ago; however, the community is now larger appointed by the Premier as the Minister for Education. than the city of Wangaratta. There is no-one in this state I congratulate all of my colleagues on this side of the who would say that a community of that size does not house on the incredible amount of work they did to be deserve its own secondary college. The old Mernda elected or re-elected and to enable us to form Primary School site should be sold in order to meet the government. Indeed I congratulate all colleagues in this educational needs of that community. A secondary place who have been elected or re-elected. A number of college should be built there within the next two years, colleagues on this side of the house have been returned otherwise we will have absolute traffic chaos and the with incredibly increased majorities. It is a tribute to community of kids will be divided up and will have to their hard work and their dedication to their local travel to Whittlesea, Mill Park, Diamond Valley or communities. There are some members on the other Greensborough. Those places all have great schools, side who have been returned with vastly reduced margins, but I congratulate them on making it here.

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I also especially congratulate the Premier on the office Finally, I thank the Liberal Party for the efficient he now holds and on the work he did to achieve that organisation of the campaign and the work leading up position. Being the Leader of the Opposition is a very to and during the campaign itself, in particular Tony hard job, and he has worked incredibly hard over the Nutt and Damien Mantach. They did an incredible job last four years. He has worked behind the scenes, he in the background. The organisation was wonderful. As has worked with community groups and he has worked I said, it is the fifth election I have contested as a with individuals, and he is held in very high esteem. He candidate and it was by far the smoothest and the best holds that office because he is the right person for it. He organised. is a great Victorian. He believes in Victoria, and he is going to make an excellent and wonderful Premier. Locally in my electorate there are a number of issues to consider. Some have already been addressed by this I thank my local campaign committee members who government. There are a number of other issues that I supported me incredibly well over the last four years took to the electorate as things I would be working on if and especially during the very busy campaign period I was elected as the member for Nepean, which I now when I was required all around the state. They looked recommit to follow through. I will name just a few. after me and looked after my interests in the electorate Already there has been a great idea, with support from in an incredible fashion. My thanks to Jackie, Colin, the Minister for Police and Emergency Services, who is John, Gwynne and David — they know who they are. I also the Deputy Premier, for an extra CFA (Country really appreciate the fantastic work they put it on my Fire Authority) brigade to be set up on the Mornington behalf. Peninsula at Blairgowrie. It is an offshoot of the Sorrento brigade. The reason it has been set up is the I especially thank my two electorate officers, Barb and fact that there are so many people living in that area Meredith. Meredith has been with me for over 10 years, who come down during the holiday season and the and Barb has been with me for the 15 years I have been traffic is so gridlocked, with so many narrow streets, a member of Parliament. I inherited Barb — she came that if there was a fire between Sorrento and Rye where with the job — and it was an absolute pleasure to ask the two CFA stations currently are, it would take too her to be my executive assistant in my ministerial long for a vehicle to actually get to a fire. As a office. Barb deserves that position. Our electorate temporary arrangement during the summer season one officers are often the unsung heroes assisting us in our of the Sorrento tankers will be placed at Blairgowrie, jobs and electorate offices, and they represent us well and the CFA is very pleased with that. within our communities. As we have already announced, there will be more I thank my family for their incredible support. My police on the Mornington Peninsula. It is great to see family members like politics and have not been put off that Frankston is getting the recognition it deserves, and by it. They are excited by it and incredibly supportive that flows right through to the southern part of the of me. They were absolutely thrilled, and one of the peninsula where we have been very low on police greatest joys I got from winning my seat and being numbers. In the 24-hour station at Rosebud, even appointed minister was the fact that my family and my though it theoretically had 39 officers, there has never community were so excited for me, proud for actually been that number in the station, working and themselves and proud for the community. available for duty. We welcome the increase in police numbers on the Mornington Peninsula. I thank my wife, Chris; it has been an incredible change of lifestyle for her, but she is doing so well. It is always In relation to rail station safety, my nearest railway good to know that my wife, as a teacher, can often point station is Frankston, which is 40 kilometres away, and a out the realities of the classroom to me when I go home great many people from my electorate access that with all sorts of ideas and plans. It certainly station to go to Melbourne or other places. It is used by complements my 20 years in the classroom and as a young people, old people and people in the workforce. principal, but my wife is the one on the ground at the It is a very important part of the infrastructure on the moment. I also thank my daughter, Julia, and her Mornington Peninsula. There are always safety husband, Lucas. My granddaughter, Ella, who was born concerns about Frankston station, to the extent that in recently, wore a T-shirt with the words ‘Vote 1 Poppy’ that precinct the local council has had to provide on election day, and I am sure that swung a lot of votes security officers because there were never enough my way. I thank my son, Marty, who is a real political police around to provide safety. To have protective animal. He is a great guy, he totally supports me and he services officers at the station will provide a wonderful takes an incredible interest in my career. sense of relief and safety. This week the Deputy Premier announced 100 extra transit police as well, and

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1063 a number of them will be riding on the Frankston line, We are also going through the budget process. I can which will add to the safety and security of the many guarantee that every single one of our election people from my electorate who use rail to access commitments in education will be funded and will be Melbourne or their workplaces. on the ground. The budget context, however, is very difficult at the moment. We have the Treasurer in The Rosebud Primary School has had a tough time with Canberra saying to Labor, ‘Why have you taken its BER (Building the Education Revolution) project, $2.5 billion away from Victoria, and what are you which has finally started, two years late. The school is going to do about it?’. That is a massive hole. That very excited about its project getting under way. Our change translates in just one year to $500 million. If, government will be supplementing that program with a say, $100 million of that $500 million has to come out $3 million upgrade of the school. In my role I am of education, imagine how much more we would be particularly looking forward to delivering that to able to do for education in this state if we had it! Rosebud Primary School. However, $500 million per year has been taken away, and I urge members opposite to put Victoria first and For a number of years Dromana Bay Life Saving Club the Labor Party second, to talk to their mates and to the has been operating out of shipping containers, which Victorian who is Prime Minister in Canberra and get has obviously restricted its membership and training. Its our fair share of that GST back. members do an incredible job. Though a community facility which they will be using along with other There are black holes everywhere. Every time we do community organisations is now going to be built on something we find another unfunded program or the foreshore, some people said it should not be built. another program lapsing when everyone thought it was The Port Phillip Conservation Council saw fit to hold an ongoing program. We have inherited that situation as that a lifesaving club building should not be on a beach. well. There is also obviously the situation with the I just could not believe that, and I was therefore very floods and the ongoing issue of how it is going to affect pleased to see the Minister for Planning call in that the Victorian community. We are therefore under a lot project. He will be making a decision about that soon. of pressure on the budget front, but we will deliver on There is a precedent for that, because a former Minister our election commitments. for Planning, John Thwaites, did a similar thing for the Rosebud lifesaving club. This week the Australian Education Union released its State of Our Schools Survey 2011. The AEU talked The coming on stream of Peninsula Link will have a about the no. 1 issue for principals being the physical number of implications in terms of traffic flows and state of the schools. I note that a few members opposite sound barriers needed on our current freeways, and I came out and said, ‘It is shocking; why haven’t you will be working with the community on that. We fixed it?’. We have been here for I think 123 days, obviously have the issue of Portsea beach — or the compared to the 4000 days of those opposite. In fact we former Portsea beach; it is no longer there. We might mention that Labor was in power for 21 of the recognise that the sea swells have changed there, but last 28 years. The damage was caused by the former we need to establish why and to address the problem. government. Its members had 11 years, they had a record margin, they had record income, they had their The final large issue in my electorate is the southern mates everywhere and they failed to deliver on this very Peninsula aquatic centre project; we are going through basic service. Further, they want us to fix it up in three a process of gaining consent in terms of coastal months. It is just unbelievable. I cannot believe the planning so that the proper planning process can begin cheek of Labor members. and the community can have a say about its need for that very important facility. We will be working with all schools. We will honour our election commitments, especially in a capital sense, In education we have established a number of task and then we will work through all the other issues of forces within the department to implement our policies. building new schools, of buying land and of upgrading We are very excited about the policies we are bringing schools. There are so many projects out there. There is into education, and as part of that implementation a huge queue of schools that thought they were going to process those task forces are working with key receive funding from the former government but never stakeholder groups, principals, parents and unions to got it. They have come to us, and we will certainly be work out the how: how do we actually implement this? working with all of them as part of our ongoing budget How will this work in a school? How will this policy and planning processes. I look forward to delivering work within the department? We are working through that. that process literally as I speak.

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In talking about school infrastructure it is interesting Mr PALLAS — I hear the members for Benalla and that because of the mismanagement of the BER Rodney ascribing princely virtues to me, but being a program rollout schools were forced to take a republican I would prefer that my electorate be treated one-size-fits-all template. Normally the only piece of like royalty by the government. flat land in a school is the car park or the asphalt. So what happened? That is where the template went, and The electorate of Tarneit is an amazing place. It is schools lost their playgrounds and they lost their car growing at the enormous rate of 8.8 per cent a year. On parks. We have announced $5 million under which his way out of town the member for Benalla may notice schools can apply to reinstate playgrounds, car parks that recently the capital of his electorate — the biggest and hard surfaces, and I encourage schools to apply for urban area of Benalla, at about 11 500 people — has that. We listened to schools, we know what the issues been overtaken as the benchmark city by the major are and we are addressing them. urban area in the member for Rodney’s electorate, which is Echuca, at around about 12 500 people. It is We are giving the 11 schools that had not even signed now the benchmark for the population growth in the up to the BER project when we came to power the local government area of Wyndham every year. In option to choose how they manage their projects. They effect, the city of Echuca is seeing its population added can self-manage them, they can give them to the to the local government area of Wyndham every year. It department to manage or they can manage the work in is quite amazing. partnership with the department. It is up to them. That is the way we will be doing business. We trust schools, It is also a community that embraces optimism and we trust school councils and we trust principals. aspires to the sorts of things that I suppose many of us aspire to in this place: to encourage and nurture children An honourable member — They know better. and facilitate the pursuit of opportunity. It is indeed an outstanding location, and I am thrilled and honoured to Mr DIXON — As the member said, they know have been elected once again to represent the seat of better, and I look forward to working with them. Tarneit.

In terms of the future of education, during the 1990s we During the time I served as a minister, and during the had real structural reform of education with devolution, time when we were in government, class sizes in my and that has worked very well. We lead the country in electorate were reduced from 26 to 23 children. In our that, and in some cases we lead the world. During the last term of office we saw the additional funding of 2000s we saw a very high emphasis on teaching and 24 police and the provision of the Wyndham North learning, on empowering teachers and on recognising police station. Whilst there was a bit of uncertainty for a our educational leaders, and that is a very strong basis little while, I am pleased to see the $4.3 billion — pick on which to build the next phase of education. From a figure, really, if you talk to this government — so the this decade on what we will be doing is taking this good regional rail link can proceed. What I seek to system and making it excellent. McKinsey has just assure — — recognised that fact. A lot of research around the world is saying now that the best way to take a system from Ms Asher interjected. being good to being excellent is from the bottom. It has got to come from the schools, from the local Mr PALLAS — I was never the minister for the communities, from the local teachers and from the local regional rail link, of course, but it is an outstanding principals. That is where the next drive in education project. It is a critical project for the community and will come from, and that is where we will take one that ultimately will stand the state and the western Victorian schools — from good to excellent. suburbs of Melbourne — and I might say regional Victoria — in particularly good stead as we go forward We will have a series of learning communities: we will and embrace the opportunities that growth and have a Victorian learning community, which will be conductivity can provide. local, regional, statewide, national and international. Once again Victoria will be at the forefront of It is also important in terms of a retrospective on the education in the world. change of government to recognise that the former Labor government governed for all Victorians. We Mr PALLAS (Tarneit) — It gives me great pleasure hope that the new government will live up to the to appear — — rhetoric incorporated within the Governor’s speech, that it will govern for all Victorians and that it will ensure Honourable members interjecting. that it is about integrity and accountability. Of course

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1065 accountability starts most notably when we talk about and all the government had to do was indicate that it the honouring of promises made to the people of was going to gazette Easter Sunday. We are not asking Victoria. We believe that as a government so far its for the world, simply that the government reflect — — record has not been particularly outstanding. If we look at the industrial relations area, we see that teachers have Mr Weller interjected. been offered a 2.5 per cent increase on the back of a justification that the global financial crisis-allocated Mr PALLAS — I hear the member for Rodney wage arrangements from the previous government asking why we didn’t do it. The answer is very simple: should continue to be applied in the current context. how many times do you have four public holidays split with one day, Easter Sunday, between them? It happens Similarly the police believe they have been rarely, if ever. But it has befallen this government. short-changed in terms of the offer of increases While members opposite were in government all they provided to them. It was not so long ago that the had to do was gazette that day. The member for Rodney Premier in a former life questioned the former Premier says, ‘Why didn’t you do it?’. It was because that about this in question time. He asked him whether or situation did not befall us. But why does this not he took responsibility for the uncertainty around the government not do it now? How hard is it to gazette a police industrial situation because of a failure to reach public holiday and essentially provide public holiday agreement around wages. The Premier at the time — entitlements to workers? Premier Brumby — answered quite honestly and directly that that was part of the negotiation process. It If your philosophical disposition is to say, ‘Let us get seems curious that the same principle is not now being rid of the way the previous government managed ascribed to the existing government — that is, that non-trading days and let us have trading on Easter when it created an expectation right across the public Sunday’, that is fair enough. That was the government’s sector that it would reward workers in a way that was policy in opposition before the election, and we have to entirely inconsistent with the policies it has enumerated, respect that. But if we respect it then we should respect it would then take responsibility for the uncertainty and working people as well and provide them with the the anger associated with the disconnect those workers opportunity not to be forced to work against their will, feel. as is the legislated situation in South Australia and New South Wales. Also the government needs to go further The government is responsible for the industrial than that and put in place appropriate arrangements to uncertainty, and the suggestion that police might take cater for public holidays. Nobody in their right mind, industrial action should be an issue of concern to all except perhaps those on the other side of the chamber, Victorians. The former opposition leader, who is now would argue that Easter Sunday should not be a public the Premier, asked the previous Premier whether he felt holiday, but for some reason they do. We hear the responsible because of the compromising of constant mantra from the member for Rodney, ‘You community safety. The government should seriously had 11 years’. The problem is that you are the recognise that it too, under its own test, has a government now and you are responsible for, I think responsibility to resolve these issues. your words were, ‘fixing the problem’.

Our community sector workers must feel aggrieved. Mr Weller interjected. The fact that in this chamber the Premier confused a commitment to fund community service workers equal The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member pay to a tune of $200 million with a minimum wage for Tarneit will speak through the Chair. The member case question really speaks volumes for the for Rodney will cease interjecting. government’s appreciation of the industrial relations Mr PALLAS — If the government believes its tasks that present themselves. But of course it is not excuse, its exculpation, for anything is to say, ‘Well, front of mind for this government, because its no. 1 something should have happened before’, that is a priority is not governing for all Victorians; it is about pretty good argument to say that members of the identifying those within the community who it seeks to government, in their own words, need do nothing. That prefer and enable to profit. in many ways also underlines their basic predisposition. Easter Sunday is a classic illustration of that. Here we Members of this government are giddy with excitement have a situation where there are two public holidays on about the prospect of governing, but they have been either side of Easter Sunday. We have Good Friday, running around in circles doing the victory laps for the Easter Saturday, Easter Monday and of course Easter last 123 days. It would be good if they got down to the Tuesday, which is Anzac Day, all as public holidays, business of governing. Perhaps that would explain to

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1066 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 the minister at the table why they have forgotten that we go! The great economic managers of our time who Easter Sunday should be a public holiday — they are so believed they had a clear appreciation of how to giddy from doing all of those victory laps. manage this project and thought it was overcosted now do not know how much it will cost — but it is going to The other thing we need to recognise is that the cost more. In terms of incorporating what the real cost government has raised the bar appreciably high. As we of this project is, where is this overrun? It is effectively know, the Premier has made it clear he will fix the and overwhelmingly in the contingency for the budget problems. In the Herald Sun of 15 November 2010 he and for the rolling stock for V/Line. was reported as indicating that there would be no new taxes, no job losses and no service cuts. That is a pretty This is a new level of accountability, and I embrace it. I unambiguous and outstanding commitment — and we hope this government will in future incorporate into as an opposition will seek to hold the government to every capital works project the contingency allocation that commitment. The government effectively said to for those projects. When we see the public sector community service workers, ‘We are constrained to comparators provided for any public-private $200 million’, despite the fact that that was not its partnerships that might be introduced by this unambiguous commitment to the union and to VCOSS government, we want to see the contingency allocation. (Victorian Council of Social Service) — and in effect to We want to see the notional value, not the actual value the community — at the time. If it feels that is going to of these projects. And goodness me, those figures are be the case and if it then proceeds to tell the going to be big. We are relishing the first project that community, as it did recently in the Age, that if the this government comes up with, because it will be increase goes beyond that we would see service cuts, enormous and the government will be hung by its own that is a direct breach of a commitment this government petard in terms of economic arrangements. gave to the community at the last election. I urge the government to reflect seriously upon the commitments Mr Walsh interjected. it gave to the community and to ensure that those commitments are honoured in full. Mr PALLAS — I promise not to hang you brutally by your own petard; I will do it with sensitivity but I It is important to recognise that this government is now will do it with alacrity. It will be important that this charged with some quite outstanding opportunities in government understand that if you are fiscally flatulent, terms of the delivery of infrastructure. The regional rail if you are feckless phoneys, then you ultimately will be link is one — and delivering on the regional rail link, an held to account for that flatulence. The people of initiative of the previous Labor government, will be an Victoria believe these things are important. outstanding achievement. The last issue I turn to is road safety. I say to the Depending on where you go for information, earlier this Minister for Roads that despite the opportunities he week we saw a variable level of alleged blow-outs or might see to score political points, the Arrive Alive black holes outlined by the government, depending on action plan is now some three months overdue. It would what level of hyperbole you wish to use. It could be ensure that Victoria maintains its position as about the $700 million, it could be $1.1 billion or it could be fifth-best jurisdiction in the world for road safety. $1.5 billion. To demonstrate how enormous this lie to the community is — the fact that we are telling the Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and community that there is a massive blow-out — we only Small Business) — I am delighted to participate in this have to look at the muddled transport minister’s address-in-reply debate that began with the opening of comments as reported in the Age yesterday. He told the the 57th Parliament. It is the 6th Parliament in which I Age that the government would not know what the cost have had the privilege to serve, and I am delighted to be of this project is until the tenders come in. That was our doing so on this side of the house. position. The Minister for Public Transport has been First of all, I thank my constituents in Brighton for busy reading our PPQs (possible parliamentary re-electing me with a significantly increased majority. I questions) when he stands up in Parliament — it sounds am humbled by that, and I am aware of the job I have in like he is reading straight from Labor PPQs extolling front of me to serve them. The electors of Brighton the virtues of the regional rail link. suffered significant neglect in terms of state But we cannot forget what the Minister for Public government services under the 11 years of the previous Transport said about the regional rail link when in Labor government. Already we are seeing some opposition, when we said it would cost $4.3 billion. He improvements in the electorate. By way of example, I said that we had inflated the cost of the project. Here am delighted that we have been able to deliver a

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1067 re-routing of bus route 626, which the previous I expect that the economic value of service industries to government put through residential streets, on to the the Victorian economy is not well understood by many main road. We want services, but we want them in the people. In 2009–10 service industries accounted for right place. Gardenvale railway station will be rebuilt 75.8 per cent of Victoria’s gross state product — that is, very soon. well over $206 billion. Service industries employ around 2.5 million workers, representing 80 per cent of I am also aware that I have to deliver in terms of Victoria’s total workforce. This is a very important addressing the significant problems in relation to the sector. As manufacturing declines, service industries New Street gates and the provision of funding for will fuel Victoria’s economic growth. In 2009–10 the Brighton Secondary College. As we undertook to do value of service industry exports was $13 billion, during the course of the last election campaign, these accounting for 41 per cent of Victoria’s total exports. commitments will be delivered throughout our term of As members of the house would be aware, some of the government. key service export areas are education services, tourism, transport services and ICT. There are Given the broad-ranging nature of this debate, I thank significant economic opportunities for Victoria in these my colleagues in the Liberal Party for re-electing me as areas. deputy leader. I have had two stints in opposition as Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party, under three leaders, In terms of business innovation, again there are for a combined total of seven and a half years. I think significant opportunities for Victorians and Victorian one of the most precarious positions in opposition is businesses. In 2008–09 Victorian industries invested that of deputy leader. I thank my parliamentary over $4 billion in business research and development, colleagues in the Liberal Party for having faith in me contributing 24.5 per cent of Australia’s expenditure on throughout that period of time. I want to acknowledge business research and development. There are some and thank them for the fact that I am still the Deputy key challenges in this area. We have great research Leader of the Liberal Party. I look forward to institutes and universities. We need to look at how undertaking that role in government. research is operating in Victoria and how we can commercialise that research into products that can be I also want to place on record my thanks to a number of marketed and thereby create further employment. It is a others. First of all I thank Veronica James, who worked big portfolio with big challenges — a job that I am for me for 18 years. She was always going to retire — relishing. in fact I begged her to stay on until after the election — after 18 years of sterling service during which she put In terms of small business, everyone on this side of the up with me, dealt with constituents and worked in my house understands the critical role it plays in the ministerial office during my first term as minister. I Victorian economy. There are more than 495 000 small thank her for all the work she has done during those businesses trading actively around Victoria that amazing 18 years. I also thank Julie Baird and Jenny contribute around 30 per cent of the state’s production. Amos for their work during the election campaign. Julie In some instances small businesses simply provide Baird had seven years of service in opposition — a self-employment, but in many others they provide tough gig — and is now working with me in my opportunities to employ others, often at significant ministerial office. personal cost to the owner-operator of the small business. Small businesses are a significant source of I also thank my husband, the Honourable Ron Best, for job creation, providing nearly half — 47 per cent — of what has now been 17 years of superb political and the state’s private sector jobs. That amounts to around personal support. Our lives have changed massively 1.2 million jobs. with the responsibilities I now have. I want to officially thank him for his support as well. Most small businesses are start-ups, independent contractors or sole proprietors, and they are I have now been appointed as Minister for Innovation, increasingly home based. That figure now stands at Services and Small Business and Minister for Tourism about 62 per cent. There are many Victorian and Major Events. The key issue for me with these microbusinesses, and the government needs to support portfolios is that raised on page 1 of the Governor’s them as well. Of particular significance to the sector is speech — that is, having a stronger economy with that 19 per cent of Victoria’s small and medium sustained growth. I will go through my disparate enterprises were exporting in the last year, and that is a portfolios in terms of the economic impact of the many relatively good position compared with other states and areas within them. territories, but significant focus and stress need to be placed on that position in order to grow employment in

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1068 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 the sector. According to my department, based on the each year, according to an Ernst & Young study for the 2009–10 Victorian GSP (gross state product) an state of Victoria. estimated small business dollar value would be worth around $102.7 billion to the economy. Ms Richardson — Speaker, I draw your attention to the state of the house. The Baillieu government has a range of plans for the small business sector. Obviously there are elements of Quorum formed. support services that were in place last time we were in government, including Business Victoria online and the Ms ASHER — As I was saying, Victoria’s major Small Business Mentoring Service. The Mobile events strategy is worth $1.4 billion to the state. It Business Centre is a new service that I support. The would be fair to say it is a strategy that was pursued by Office of the Victorian Small Business Commissioner, the previous coalition administration and one that which was a Labor initiative — I am prepared to make Labor — to its credit — pursued when it was in that point — has helped in dispute resolution, and the government, and it is obviously one that we wish to sector is strongly supportive of it. I might add that the embrace. We are very keen to see more events in coalition supported that initiative when Labor regional Victoria, and we are very keen to extract introduced the legislation to this place. significant tourism opportunities, not just event wise, for regional Victoria. It is with that in mind that the We have had significant problems and challenges with coalition has supported the development of Avalon the floods, and again we have provided support for Airport as the second international airport for the state, small businesses in particular as a consequence. and we are going to respond to industry demands of us Clean-up and restoration grants of up to $25 000 are to ensure that there is sufficient quality accommodation available, and we have announced two new programs. in regional Victoria to cover the required length of stay The first program is being delivered through Victorian by international and interstate visitors to enable us to Employers Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the grow the economic value of tourism to the state. Small Business Mentoring Service, to assist small businesses that need advice. Just the other day we also I also want to touch on a number of actions for which I announced $5000 loans up to a value of $1.5 million to have already been responsible. Firstly, Easter Sunday small businesses that were not necessarily flooded but trading has been mentioned by a number of speakers. were flood affected. One of the limitations of previous This will allow regional businesses to trade on three of small business assistance for flooding is that the the days of Easter. Of course Good Friday is a business had to be flooded to get the grant of assistance. non-trading day. I note that the member for Tarneit, Under the grant announced by the Baillieu government who spoke before me, called for an additional public businesses that are impacted on by a flood — for holiday for Easter Sunday. If the government agreed, example, a road has been cut or they have lost their that would mean that Victoria would have more public clientele in some other way — can be eligible for a holidays than other states, and businesses, including $5000 grant, which generally has been well received by small businesses, would have to pay additional penalty the sector. rates for that Easter Sunday trading day. We on this side of the house think there should be statewide On the tourism portfolio, tourism is a significant part of equality for public holidays. We noted early on in the Victorian economy. It contributes $15.8 billion, or opposition that the Labor Party believes small 5.9 per cent, of Victoria’s GSP and employs businesses should pay extra money to their staff to open 185 000 people right across the state. It is a very on Easter Sunday. I make the point that we have the important industry. I had the honour of being the same number of public holidays as other states. Minister for Tourism in a former Liberal government, and I am delighted to be back in the portfolio after an We have also announced that we will have an economic 11-year interregnum. I look forward to assisting the impact assessment of the grand prix in the interest of tourism industry to grow jobs and, I hope, its proportion transparency, which is a theme of the Governor’s of gross state product, because not only is tourism a speech, and we will release that economic impact critical employer in the state of Victoria, it is a assessment. Again I note that Labor did economic significant export opportunity for Victoria. It is impact assessments on the grand prix, and they were currently the no. 2 export for the state. not released. We have said we want to support the grand prix, but we want to make sure the grand prix On the major events portfolio, the government’s major delivers a benefit for the state. In the interests of the events strategy was referenced at page 6 of the theme of transparency enunciated by the Governor in Governor’s speech. Major events contribute $1.4 billion

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1069 his speech and by Premier Baillieu time and again, we term; Lee Tarlamis, a member for South Eastern will release that economic impact assessment. Metropolitan Region, who was deservedly elected to the other place; members of the Sri Lankan and Indian I note that the Governor’s speech had the themes that communities; and Labor Party members, especially the we had been talking about in opposition for a long time. rank and file members of the Carrum Downs, I am delighted to have been re-elected to this Cranbourne and Frankston North branches. I thank you Parliament. all dearly.

Mr PERERA (Cranbourne) — I begin by I would also like to thank my family and extended acknowledging the traditional owners of the land on family members, who have always been right behind which we stand and the land of my electorate, the Kulin me and have duly supported my parliamentary career. nation, and pay my respects to their elders past and Without these generous, hardworking, dedicated and present. selfless souls I would not have been able to run a 100 per cent local and effective campaign and retain the I take this opportunity to congratulate the member for seat of Cranbourne. A big thankyou to you all. I share Bass on his election to the high office of Speaker of this this victory with you. house. I sincerely hope he will carry out his duties professionally, impartially and with dignity, just as his Today the state electorate of Cranbourne is a really immediate predecessor did and the many other different place from what it was when I was elected members before him who maintained the position with after seven years of neglect under the previous Liberal dignity. It is not an easy task to function in that role government. I was proud to be part of the Bracks and impartially when one has been a long-time member of Brumby Labor teams, which continuously delivered for this Parliament. I also take this opportunity to the constituents of my electorate. I wish to mention a congratulate you, Deputy Speaker, on your election to few of the major achievements of the Bracks and your position. Brumby governments in the time I have represented the electorate of Cranbourne. First and foremost I would like to thank the electors in the seat of Cranbourne who had faith in me and kindly The Monterey High School had been closed, and its re-elected me for the third time as their representative in land subsequently sold by the Kennett Liberal the Victorian Parliament. The electors of Cranbourne government to a developer for a lucrative residential have provided me with the privilege of becoming the development, against the wishes of the local first Labor member to represent the electorate of community. I was proud to be part of the Bracks Labor Cranbourne. They have also provided this nation with government which bought back the land from the the opportunity of showcasing its multicultural developer and converted it into what it is today — an credentials by electing the first Sri Lankan-born iconic recreation park for the residents of Frankston member of any lower house of Parliament outside Sri North. Frankston North has been a forgotten place at all Lanka for a third consecutive term. After eight years in levels of Liberal government. The buyback was a gutsy this place I am still the only Indian subcontinent-born approach by the then Bracks government — a member in any Australian Parliament. It is a testament government committed to justice for all Victorians, not to the Australian Labor Party that it preselects just the wealthy ones. overseas-born candidates for winnable seats and not for seats without any hope of winning simply for pure It was a Labor government which built the first political advantage to maximise ethnic support on secondary school in the fast-growing suburb of Carrum election day. Downs at a cost of $15 million during my first term in office. I, along with other residents, lobbied hard to get Running an effective election campaign is neither an a secondary school for the Carrum Downs area during easy task nor a solo operation. Therefore I take this the Kennett Liberal years. It was like speaking to a opportunity to thank all of those who worked hand in brick wall. Land was also set aside for a secondary hand with me over the last four years right up to college in Carrum Downs along Greenwood Drive. election day on 27 November 2010. Surprise, surprise — again the Liberals sold the land along Greenwood Drive to developers for residential It would be remiss of me not to mention the true development. Closing schools and selling land to believers — the people and groups who were in the developers was second nature to the Liberal forefront in delivering a Labor victory in government during those years. Cranbourne — and they include my staff, Sammy, Ian and Jason, who all worked tirelessly during the last

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1070 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011

Community safety in the electorate was also well Frankston and Cranbourne. We have also seen major represented by the Bracks and Brumby Labor upgrades along Thompsons Road and Western Port governments. A $6 million state-of-the-art police Highway, to name a few. station was constructed at the Cranbourne end of my electorate, and an $8 million state-of-the-art police There remains a dire need for traffic lights to be station was constructed in Carrum Downs at the other constructed at the intersection of Frankston-Dandenong end of my electorate to service Carrum Downs and Road and Wedge Road in Carrum Downs. The Brumby Langwarrin. Labor government pledged over $6 million to have this intersection fixed. I hope to see this government deliver In the past few weeks my constituents in the electorate on that pledge. of Cranbourne and surrounds have been making inquiries regarding the rumour that a new police station The Labor government delivered in education. We now is to be built in Langwarrin. This was not one of the see new multimillion-dollar schools in Cranbourne, coalition’s commitments at the last election, but the such as Carlisle Primary School, Cranbourne East member for Hastings has been talking about it. He Primary School, Cranbourne East Secondary College would like one, of course; that would increase his and, of course, Marnebek School, Cranbourne. popularity. However, there is no commitment from the Marnebek is a special school proudly offering government. I ask the government to make a educational and social programs to students aged commitment one way or another rather than misleading between 5 and 18 years. and confusing constituents in this area. We also now see multimillion-dollar upgrades of our I was also pleased to see that the police commissioner schools, such as Cranbourne Secondary College, recently announced that the Frankston area will receive Cranbourne West Primary School, Mahogany Rise an additional 35 police officers during the course of this Primary School and Rangebank Primary School. financial year and a further 35 officers during the However, there is more to be done. I will be working course of the next financial year. This announcement with principals, staff and school councils to make sure came in very early this year before a single police cadet that the third stage of Cranbourne Secondary College is had been recruited to the police academy by the delivered, and I will also be lobbying for the rebuilding coalition government. Extra police officers are being of Seaford Park Primary School. I am also proud to say delivered as a result of the strong investment by the that, thanks to Labor, there are now more teachers and previous Labor government, which delivered over administration staff in local schools in the electorate of 2000 new officers. Cranbourne.

Recently the coalition government had the pleasure of Public transport was also a winner in my electorate opening the St Kilda Football Club’s $11 million elite under Labor. We have seen the introduction of a training facility located in Belvedere Park in my SmartBus service that runs frequently from Frankston electorate. Funding contributions came from the City of to Ringwood and then to Melbourne Airport. This bus Frankston, the AFL, the St Kilda Football Club and the service has been heartily welcomed by many residents previous Brumby Labor government. The Brumby living in the areas of Carrum Downs, Skye, Frankston Labor government contributed the most towards this North, Belvedere and Sandhurst. We have seen the project, with an injection of $3.45 million — yet introduction of new bus services and the enhancement another of its legacies. This government did not even of existing services in the electorate. We have seen a have the common decency to invite the local member $37 million upgrade of the Cranbourne railway station representing the area to this event. and the creation of an additional 400 parking spots.

When I won the seat of Cranbourne in 2002 the main Labor in office built a facility to house up to six trains arterials located in the electorate had simply been so that rail services can start from Cranbourne every neglected; they were little more than goat tracks. Today morning, avoiding empty morning travel from we see multimillion-dollar upgrades of many main Dandenong to Cranbourne that congested the tracks. arterials in the electorate of Cranbourne due to over This is innovative thinking by the Bracks and Brumby $500 million being invested by the previous Labor Labor governments. We have seen additional services governments. I wish to take this opportunity to speak along the Cranbourne and Frankston lines. We have about the recent completion of the $80 million, seen a further $5 million upgrade of the Frankston 23-kilometre Cranbourne-Frankston Road, which was station. As part of the $38 billion transport plan Labor built and delivered by the previous Labor government. also announced a $200 million investment to extend the This is now the main arterial to connect the cities of railway line from Cranbourne to Cranbourne East. This

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1071 includes the construction of grade separations and also no expertise to cut services; that is easy. There is much the construction of a railway station for Cranbourne more to good governance than cutting services, East. The question is whether the Liberal government flogging public assets — — will deliver on this great initiative for Cranbourne East. The SPEAKER — Order! The member’s time has Under Labor we have seen the construction of the expired. $80 million Casey Hospital. We have also seen multimillion-dollar upgrades of the Frankston, Monash Mr WALSH (Minister for Agriculture and Food and Dandenong hospitals. This government is Security) — It is a pleasure to rise to speak on the unfortunately backing away from its commitment to address-in-reply and respond to the Governor’s speech expand the Casey Hospital, which is located in one of from the start of the 57th Parliament. This is the the fastest growing areas in the south-east, and also one third Parliament I have been part of, and it is a pleasure of the high baby boom areas. That is why the Brumby to sit on this side of the chamber and be part of the government pledged $250 million for the Monash Baillieu government, which is going to deliver for all of children’s centre. I welcome the matching of this Victoria. pledge by the Baillieu government. Along with my Labor colleagues in the south-east, I will be watching I think one of the most powerful paragraphs of the this government in its delivering on that pledge. The Governor’s speech is on its first page in Hansard. It Brumby government pledged $50 million for a new states: emergency department and additional beds. On The government’s agenda will be based upon the principles 22 November the now Liberal member for Frankston of responsibility, fairness and respect. The government will pledged to match that. I congratulate the government on carry out its responsibilities with stability, dignity, certainty that commitment and look forward to it matching the and common sense. Victorian families will be listened to and their interest in what matters to them will be respected and Labor commitment. I am looking to this government to honoured. This will be a government of inclusion and honour these pledges, and I will be looking to the transparency, a government for all Victorians and for all government to do the right thing and deliver on its families. promises. There is a very powerful message in that paragraph The Bracks and Brumby Labor governments delivered about what the Baillieu government will be delivering for residents in the electorate of Cranbourne. I on and how it will be doing that over the next four challenge the Liberal-Nationals coalition to point the years. It is a pleasure to be a part of it, and particularly finger and show me any major project of this scale that to be a minister in the cabinet of that government. A lot was delivered in the Cranbourne electorate during the of people who come into this place and serve as seven years of the Kennett coalition government. These members of Parliament and then go on to serve in strong investments that I have proudly spoken about did cabinet do not get to be ministers in areas where they not occur automatically. They were delivered through have spent their whole lives, so for me it is a particular the hard work of the local member, who fortunately honour to be the Minister for Agriculture and Food happened to be part of a Labor government that was Security and the Minister for Water in this government, committed to investing in the future of the Victorian because those two sectors are where I have spent my community. The commitment to get things done in the whole working life. It is a great honour to represent my electorate occurs when its representative believes in constituents in this place. social justice and a fair go. If you think about what a government can deliver for That is what all of us on this side are about. We all are the people of country Victoria, you will realise there is part of Australia’s social democratic movement, no better example than what has happened in this place represented by three words: Australian Labor Party. We this week with the introduction of the Public Holidays in the Labor Party believe in equality, equality of Amendment Bill 2011. That was very contentious in opportunity, natural justice and a fair go. That is why I my electorate. When you have large country electorates believe a set of small business operators and toffs from you have a number of local government areas with across Victoria will not constitute either a good multiple towns that have country cups and country parliamentary team or a good government, because shows, and there is a need in those local government they lack the range of experience necessary to represent areas for the flexibility to have different public holidays constituents from all walks of life. It is hard to have for different events in different towns. That is a small good grassroots representation from those who believe thing in the overall scheme of the world but a great that unfettered markets are the panacea and that thing for many country communities that now have the markets will fix everything under the sun. People need

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1072 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 opportunity to have public holidays for the events that important changes, in this case in the food and fibre are held in their particular communities. sector.

The other contentious issue recently was the issue of If we increase the profitability of the industry, we will Easter Sunday trading. For businesses in the city of also increase its attractiveness to young people. If we Swan Hill it was always a worry that they had to get an want to make it attractive for the smartest and best to go exemption to trade on Easter Sunday because Swan into food and fibre production, there needs to be a profit Hill really buzzes over Easter. A lot of people come incentive there, and if you get younger people involved, into the community as tourists, and at one stage they you will get innovation, you will get passion and you were not able to go and shop on Easter Sunday. That will get the drive of the younger people. That will uncertainty for the community has now been removed increase the profit as well, so it becomes a circular as well. These are just little things, but they are things process that increases all the time. One of the things I that mean a lot to the communities they affect. want to do as minister is drive that sort of change.

The Baillieu government included food security in the One thing that was disappointing in the debate about title of the agriculture portfolio. I think the issue of food food security recently was the prominence in the press security is finally starting to get some prominence in several months ago of a particular economist who was community debate. It is a major issue at the moment, saying that we should not be using water for irrigation but it will become an even more important issue in the if we were exporting the food produced, that we were future. Another change we would like to see in relation harming the environment by exporting out of this state to this area of portfolio responsibility is for a focus on food that used our water. I think we need to be very food and fibre production to enter the vernacular. It is focused on the fact that water is an economic tool as not just about agriculture but also very much about food well as an environmental asset, and we need to and fibre production and making sure we link the co-manage those roles so that we can continue to producers of food and fibre in this state with the produce the food and fibre we want in an consumers. I think a lot of consumers do not environmentally responsible way. necessarily understand what is involved in producing food and fibre and what the connections are between One of the things I was informed of by the department the consumers and the producers. when I became the agriculture minister was that there is a major science component to the portfolio and there is Victoria is not only a producer of food and fibre for a substantial research part of the department. That is a people in Victoria to consume; it is a supplier to the very important part of the department, but we need to world. I want to put the issue of food security into the make sure that that research is put out onto the ground, context of Victoria being a state that has a responsibility so my role is about driving the extension of that part of to produce food and fibre not only for ourselves but for the portfolio as well and establishing how we link with the rest of the world, because we do have a the community in doing that. I want to build better links responsibility to do that. By definition that then creates with the likes of the Birchip Cropping Group, the jobs and wealth for this state. I think that is one of the Mackinnon Project and Southern Farming Systems so things that has been lost in some of the debate that has that we have links between the department, its research gone on over recent years. arm and the community that will ensure that we continue to get the research out to people on the If we are going to make sure that we are providing food ground. security for the world, we need to do some key things. As agriculture minister one of the things I want to see is I would like to give an important message to new that we actually spend time talking about the issue of members of Parliament. In the last Parliament I was a profit. One of the things that has happened over the last member of the Environment and Natural Resources 10 or 15 years is that everyone has started talking about Committee of the Parliament, which conducted some the issue of sustainability and those sorts of things but significant inquiries. Being involved in those built my they have not talked about profit. We have got to start knowledge base and assisted me in developing policies talking about profit. Profit in some ways in some as a shadow minister, some of which I am now going to sectors has been considered a dirty word, and we need implement as minister. to bring the focus back to the issue of people having to make money out of doing things. People who go to The first inquiry I want to touch on is the inquiry the work expect to make a profit — to get paid, in other committee conducted into Melbourne’s future water words. People who go into business also need the needs. The information we derived from that inquiry opportunity to make a profit, and that will drive has been very important in the development of the

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Baillieu government’s policies about increasing the use increasing the area of controlled burns in this state to of stormwater and recycled water in this state. At the lessen the impact and intensity of fires and the fuel time of the inquiry the north–south pipeline project had load. One of the smaller things coming out of the just been announced by the previous government. That inquiry was discussion about how you can use cattle to was a very contentious issue in country Victoria, reduce fuel loads. It was a pleasure for me to see the something that represented an absolute breach of trust photographs of cattle being returned to the high country by the then Labor government. After promising not to to do that particular job. People started to say, ‘What is do the north–south pipeline before the 2006 election, this all about?’. That policy was in the public arena for seven months later it totally reversed that decision. We 12 months before it was implemented. It was not all know very well the debate that went on within the something that should have come as a surprise to community and in this place and that the Plug the Pipe anyone. group was formed in response to that. One of the pleasures of being a local member in the If you look at the results of the election in November Baillieu government is being able to deliver on some of and think about what seats changed hands, you will the commitments that we made to our own electorates. realise that that was significant. The seat of Seymour In my electorate of Swan Hill, since the election — and changed hands because of that movement, and I I say this as the Minister for Water — it has not stopped congratulate the new member for Seymour on being raining in some ways. My electorate has been severely elected to this place to represent the interests of that impacted by the floods, but being able to be part of a community. Her win was very much influenced by the government that can provide assistance to those north–south pipeline debate. communities has been something that I have found very worthwhile. There is democracy in this state. People are being heard, and they made decisions about what seats should Commitments we made during the election are now have changed hands because of actions of the previous being implemented in my electorate. The Kerang and government, particularly cases where the previous District Hospital is one project that I am particularly government had lost its way or broken promises. One looking forward to seeing get started. Work had been of the commitments we made prior to the election and under way on the hospital for a number of years. There that I had great pleasure in delivering on was making were several false starts and several master plans, but sure that the north–south pipeline was turned off; that the hospital is now well advanced with its latest master was an undertaking made by the Premier and me. plan. The project control group will now be able to upgrade the facilities at the hospital. This is a project Something that will have a longer lasting effect is the that is well and truly overdue. commitment we made to have an inquiry into water savings projects in northern Victoria. I appointed the Another initiative for the city of Swan Hill that few Ombudsman to run that inquiry — another stamp for a people may know about is Chisholm Park, a motorsport policy implemented. The Ombudsman is working away complex 5 or 6 kilometres up the road from Swan Hill. and looking at the governance issues around the water It is a complex that has been built up over the years by savings projects that were put in place by the previous the motorsport community with very little assistance government — that is, how they are being managed and from government. A number of sports events are held whether there is validity to the water savings that were there. There is motocross, dirt track racing and speed promised. I am receiving regular updates from the cars, and there is a very strong push to get drag-racing Ombudsman. I look forward to his report because I happening there. We see a lot of focus on football, think it will give us the opportunity to refocus those netball, tennis, cricket and those other sports, but for a projects in northern Victoria so they deliver outcomes particular cohort of people motorsport is very for the community rather than just being rhetoric that important. The government was able to make a the previous government was putting out there about commitment of $2 million to assist that group in further savings. developing that facility and getting it up to speed so that there will be the opportunity in the future to put in a Another important inquiry of the Environment and drag strip there as well. That is something that is Natural Resources Committee — I will touch on policy missing across all of northern Victoria but particularly again — was concerned with the 2006 bushfires. It will in north-western Victoria. That is another thing that as be a pleasure to implement policies arising out of that part of the Baillieu government I look forward to being inquiry. We all know that the Black Saturday fires able to implement in my electorate. came several years later, but the inquiry into the 2006 bushfires resulted in recommendations around

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In winding up I would like to return to where I intentions of the incoming government, and as such it started — that is, I want to return to what I was saying was considered to be the comments of the government. about how the Baillieu government is going to work The minister referred to the first page of the Governor’s with the communities of Victoria. I come back to the speech, where the Governor said that the government particular words I used at the beginning of my speech. I would listen to Victorian families and would be spoke about being responsible, fair and showing interested in what matters to them and that those respect. I spoke about the issues around stability, matters will be respected and honoured. He also said: dignity, certainty and common sense. One of the things I want to do as a minister in the Baillieu government is This will be a government of inclusion and transparency, a government for all Victorians and for all families. make sure that in the decision making in which I am involved I put in place my first rule, which is to ask: It was interesting that the minister highlighted those does this decision or this matter with which I am words, particularly where the Governor said it would be involved actually make sense? I find that a lot of things a government that would govern for all Victorians. That that are done by both sides of the Parliament when they is what I want to address today. Aside from the number are in government do not make sense when you step of reviews that the incoming government has back and look at them. I look forward to bringing to my commissioned, the minister mentioned that he had role as a minister of this government my previous life appointed the Ombudsman to conduct a review into one experience at working in business and the community area in particular. No doubt the work the Ombudsman to make sure that many of the decisions we make pass is doing in that area is important, but it is worth making the common-sense test. At times some of the things that the distinction between the functions of government are done by governments do not pass the and the functions of statutory office-holders like the common-sense test. When it comes to the briefs and Ombudsman. It is important to ensure that those suggestions that are put to me, the first test I will have office-holders remain and are seen to be independent of will be the question, ‘Do they pass the common-sense government and, on another level, that they are not seen test? Are they fair? Are they responsible, and do they as replicating or taking over the work of government. involve the community in the decision-making There are some things that governments should do and process?’. Let us not lose sight of the fact that we come some things that statutory bodies should be left to do. to this place to represent the communities that elect us. What is becoming clear when I talk to the people in my Mr BROOKS (Bundoora) — It is a pleasure to be area is that this government does not have a positive able to contribute to debate on the adoption of the agenda for Victoria. Even in government the coalition address-in-reply to the Governor’s speech. At the outset seems to be adopting the same strategy it took to the I would like to thank the residents and citizens of the election when it was in opposition: the small target Bundoora electorate for placing their trust in me for the approach, where it tried to focus on the negatives of the next four years to represent their interests here in the then government rather than putting forward a positive Parliament. vision for Victoria. Coalition members may well say that they won the election so it was a justified political I would also like to thank the many people who strategy, but with respect, now that they are in supported me in my election campaign. There are too government it is time for them to set out a positive many people to name, but certainly I would like to vision of their own as opposed to continuing to focus mention Brian Smiddy, Frank Beard and Rosie Bray — on what the Labor government did in its time. Some three people who have been bedrocks of support for me legitimate points can be made on both sides of the over a number of years and certainly continue to be. I house about the performance of the other side. That is would also like to thank my staff over both the last term part of the political cut and thrust, but it is going to of Parliament and this term. That includes Steve Paul, become a problem in terms of Victoria’s governance Helen Coleman, Anne Paul, Kobe Quinlan, and my and a political problem for the government if it does not current staff, Jason McDonald and Sean Ingram. There start to enunciate a clear positive agenda for Victoria. are a number of staff here at Parliament I have worked with who have been of fantastic assistance, and they When you talk to people in my area about the Labor include Lesley Arthur, Eileen Kitching and Megan Party’s vision for Victoria they are clear about where Smith, to name a few. they see Labor Party policy taking Victoria. The Labor Party has a strong history of developing a strong It was interesting to follow the comments of the platform and strong policies and providing a vision for Minister for Agriculture and Food Security when he the people of Victoria. Everybody knew that the Bracks referred to the first few comments made by the and Brumby governments’ key priority was education. Governor in his speech. That speech was based on the

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That was a mantra of our government. Another thing The SPEAKER — Order! The Minister for we said was that we would always govern for all Environment and Climate Change is out of his seat and Victorians. I note that that has been picked up by the out of order. government, particularly in the Governor’s speech. Mr BROOKS — I will be interested to hear from When you look at education in my area you see a stark the Minister for Education or any other member of the example of how this government is governing for all government what schools they intend to upgrade or Victorians. We heard the minister talking earlier about rebuild in the northern suburbs of Melbourne. I would some of the projects in his electorate that he was ask them to name one, because the fact is that they have looking forward to. It is clear that in the northern no commitment to build even one school in the suburbs of Melbourne the electors did not vote for a northern suburbs of Melbourne. Baillieu government — every lower house seat in the Northern Metropolitan Region has returned Labor Mr R. Smith — That is poor representation by the members. Although many people in the northern local member. suburbs would have had issues they would have liked to have seen handled better by the previous Mr BROOKS — I will take up the interjection. The government, they ultimately returned Labor members minister at the table has blamed — — of Parliament because they thought the Labor The SPEAKER — Order! I ask the member to government deserved a further term. ignore interjections and to move on with the debate.

What we have seen since this new government has Mr BROOKS — Thank you for your guidance, come to office is promises made by the former Speaker. It is the height of arrogance for members of government not being honoured. An example is the the government to somehow blame the electors in the promised redevelopment of the Greensborough college. northern suburbs — the voters, good Victorian It is a fantastic school with a great principal and great families — for their choice at the last election and say teachers, volunteers, staff and students, a school that that is the reason they will not see their schools has a growing enrolment despite demographic upgraded in this term of government. It is the worst predictions, a school that is seen as a government display of partisan governance that you can imagine. school of choice. Ten years ago it had an enrolment hovering just over 300 and now it has an enrolment of The next area where Victorians see Labor governments just over 1000. It is tracking well. The energy in that doing well in is health. I have said this in the house school and the commitment of the staff are fantastic. It before, and the people in the north-east of Melbourne was great to go there last year with the then Deputy understand this clearly now — there is no better Premier to announce that the Labor government would example than the Austin Hospital. The Austin Hospital rebuild the school. The facilities are in need of is like a giant billboard in the north-eastern suburbs that rebuilding. The school population was ecstatic, so it tells the story of the different political parties and their was disappointing for them when this government said governance of health in the north-east. The former state it would not rebuild that school. president of the Liberal Party, the now Premier, with his mentor and friend Jeff Kennett as the Premier ran If the Minister for Education looked at educational down the Austin Hospital to the point where the real needs on merit, it would be difficult for him to say that estate could be sold off for residential development. this school is not worthy of being rebuilt. Effectively That was only stopped because of the election of the what the minister said in the adjournment debate is that Bracks government. One of the finest things the Bracks the government will fulfil Liberal Party election government did was to rebuild the Austin Hospital in promises before it comes to schools like Heidelberg. At the time it was the biggest public Greensborough. It is clear that the Liberal government hospital redevelopment in the country. intends to fund its own political promises before schools that deserve to be upgraded. People are starting Mr Watt interjected. to see that the Liberal government will look after its own electorates, but if you happen to live in areas The SPEAKER — Order! That is enough from the where Labor members have been returned, you can member for Burwood! expect to see four years of nothing. I will come to some other policy areas, but I will be interested to hear from Mr BROOKS — We had the attempt to flog off the the Minister for Education — — Austin Hospital by Jeff and his mates and then later we had the rebuilding. I do not think people could believe it Mr R. Smith interjected. when this government came to office and in one of the

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1076 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 most heartless acts decided not to proceed with the Mr BROOKS — Some of the members on the half-constructed Olivia Newton-John Cancer and government back benches should probably ask more Wellness Centre, even though it was already being questions in their party room about these sorts of bills, built, even though there was a commitment in the rather than making ignorant interjections in the house. budget and the completion of the final stages was accounted for in election costings. When we ran the The bill did very little and in the government briefing community campaign to get the government to change we found out that the bill would not do the work that its mind — which I note it has now done — people you was required to introduce PSOs at rail stations. That talked to just could not believe either side of politics work will take place much further down the track, would be so heartless, and some people said they could probably later this year, if not the year after. The bill not believe the government could be so stupid, as to was only a couple of pages, which I labelled at the time hold out from such an obviously deserving project. as a bit of a public relations stunt to give Victorians the impression that the government was moving on this Again I come back to the point that the Minister for issue when in fact the legislation to allow these things Agriculture and Food Security raised in his contribution will not happen until many months, if not years down as being referred to in the Governor’s speech: that this the track. would be a government of inclusion and transparency, a government for all Victorians and all families. He We have seen the problems the government has had spoke about the planned hospital in his electorate and with the Police Association about commitments how he looked forward to its construction. We obviously made to the Police Association on pay and welcome more hospitals in our state. Good on the conditions, and the enterprise bargaining agreement minister for that! negotiations that are now taking place. In that regard the Premier, Deputy Premier and Treasurer have been But the point I am making is that this government needs depicted in newspaper reports as being clowns in a to govern for all Victorians — as the Governor’s speech circus. alluded to — including people in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, not just the people in Nationals or Of the other issues that my constituents are concerned Liberal Party seats. We will see that theme beginning to about, a key concern would be transport, especially play out as this government starts to look carefully at with growth areas further out from my electorate along funding initiatives only in its own areas. We will the Plenty corridor in the suburbs of Mernda, South continue to see cuts to services and projects in Labor Morang and Doreen, which are growing rapidly. The areas, particularly in the northern suburbs, where previous government of which I was a part planned people decided they wanted to see Labor members transport infrastructure for those areas and was returned. This government does not want to treat them delivering transport infrastructure to those areas, not with the due respect they deserve. always as quickly as it should have been delivered, I have to say, but we were getting on with the job of The other key areas I address are law and order, the providing infrastructure. That is in stark contrast to number of police officers and the training they receive. what we see now from this government, which has The government rode an election winner on this issue. proposed no infrastructure for those growth areas. It is always an easy political ploy. The now government Again, not only do I want to hear what schools this raised some genuine concerns and some of the issues it government will provide for the northern suburbs, but I raised tried to piggyback politically on this issue. Both want to hear what extra transport infrastructure and major parties went to the last election promising more extra health infrastructure this government will provide police in attempting to address the concerns of many in the northern suburbs. Victorians on that issue. In finalising my comments, I indicate that over the last We are now seeing some of those policies starting to few days following questioning by the member for unravel. The first thing that this government did was to Narre Warren North of the Minister for Community bring in a very strange bill concerning the placement of Services we have seen a rejection of her responsibility protective services officers (PSOs) at rail stations. It in relation to child protection, which I think is a very was not until the government briefing, and I think I said important issue that requires further consideration. this during the debate on the bill — — The SPEAKER — Order! The member’s time has Mr Battin interjected. expired.

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Mrs POWELL (Minister for Local Government) — transparent and, as we have all said, we want to be a I am pleased to make a presentation on the government for all Victorians and all families. address-in-reply to the Governor’s speech made on the occasion of the opening of the 57th Parliament. First, I The Governor outlined a number of the government’s take the opportunity to pay tribute to Professor David intentions and initiatives which we believe will benefit de Kretser whose five-year term ends today, I believe. I all families in Victoria with better outcomes for attended a dinner with a number of my colleagues in families. I cannot go through all those issues, but some honour of the Governor of Victoria, Professor David de include cutting stamp duty rates for first-time home Kretser, and his wife, Jan, to thank them for their many buyers purchasing principal places of residence valued years of service. I wish them all the best for their at up to $600 000; a 17.5 per cent electricity price retirement. I also wish the new Governor, Mr Alex reduction for concession card holders; and ambulance Chernov, all the best on his new appointment. The membership fees cut in half for Victorians. We want to government looks forward to working with the new make sure that Victorians can afford to be involved in Governor. some of the issues that concern their welfare and safety.

In his speech Professor de Kretser acknowledged the The new leadership, as we have said, will govern for Kulin nation, the traditional owners of the land on Victorians, including those in regional and rural which we were gathering. The Premier also paid his Victoria which the former government forgot. Regional respects to the traditional owners when he signed the and rural Victoria made sure that the former Closing the Gap agreement on 24 March. The Premier, government paid the price at the last election. Deputy Premier, Leader of the Opposition, myself as Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and the shadow The government has established the $1 billion Regional Minister for Aboriginal Affairs all signed that Growth Fund to support regional Victoria, to create agreement in a recommitment to making sure that we new prosperity and to reverse Labor’s neglect of do close the gap on Aboriginal disadvantage. It is country roads and bridges. In country Victoria a important that we do that and it was pleasing to see that number of councils have bridges numbering in the it is a bipartisan agreement. hundreds, large municipalities and a small rate base, making it very difficult for them to maintain and The Governor also acknowledged that at the last upgrade those bridges. Knowing that, the government general election on 27 November 2010 there was a has put forward a $160 million fund so that 40 councils change of government. Sometimes those members on each year can access up to $1 million to upgrade their the other side forget that and still think they are in roads and bridges. That means over the term of this government. They come into the chamber and talk government 40 local councils will be able to receive up about what we have done in the last four months but to $4 million each to help them repair some of the forget that they have had 11 years to fix their problems results of neglect by the Labor government in the last which they are now pointing towards us and asking 11 years. Some $100 million has also been committed what we have done in four months. to extend natural gas across regional Victoria. That will be a huge boon to businesses in country Victoria. I have the honour of being the Minister for Local Government and the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs in The floods in country Victoria in September, in the Baillieu-Ryan government, and I take that honour November and December, in January and again in very seriously. Along with many of my colleagues, we February have worsened the poor condition of those want to make sure that we take our commission very roads and bridges and made dealing with them much seriously and govern in the best interests of all more difficult for councils. The government first set up Victorians. We want to make sure that happens and we a $5 million local government clean-up fund to enable have made a commitment that it will happen. councils to do the massive clean-up they had to do when the floods first occurred. Sixteen of the worst The Governor also outlined the government’s policy affected councils received $100 000 straightaway. agenda and the legislative intention of the Without being asked to account for that money, they Baillieu-Ryan government. As the record shows, we were given $100 000, which was put into their made all our commitments on our policy agenda based accounts, and they were very grateful for that. Those on strong principles of responsibility, fairness and councils have now been offered another $100 000 of respect. The government will carry out its clean-up funds, helping communities affected by the responsibilities with stability, dignity, certainty and, as worst floods to get back on track and to fix up some of the Minister for Agriculture and Food Security said, their streetscapes. The government also waived the also with common sense. We intend to be inclusive and landfill levy so councils could put rubbish into landfills

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1078 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 and not have to pay the exorbitant amounts of money protection system. The media has recently reported on they would otherwise have needed to pay. The child abuse and neglect in Aboriginal communities, and government has given many other grants to councils in as the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs I am disappointed terms of emergency services. greatly by the fact that the figures are not improving. A recent national report on government services reported When we look at community safety, which is a huge that substantiation rates for indigenous children are issue right across Victoria, we see that the number of around 10 times the rate for non-indigenous children in front-line police has been boosted by 1700 recruits in Victoria. That is an appalling statistic and one I know the government’s first term. Eleven of those new police this judicial inquiry will have a look at in order perhaps officers are going into the Shepparton district. For to put forward some recommendations about how we 11 years I was calling on the former government to prevent that and respond better to child abuse and increase police numbers in the Shepparton district, and neglect, not just in indigenous communities but also in it refused. Labor government members said they had non-indigenous communities. Hopefully some really achieved the correct number of police officers. They good recommendations will come out of that inquiry. I had not. Our government has looked at where police look forward to seeing the commencement of that officers need to go to ensure the safety of communities, inquiry and its recommendations, enabling us all to and we have put those police officers there. Shepparton have a look at how we can make sure our most now has 11 new police officers, as I said, and we are vulnerable children are protected. very grateful for that. Obviously police command will dictate where the new officers go. I turn to the issue of bushfire response. On Black Saturday 173 people lost their lives, which is an The government has introduced tough new laws, appalling statistic. The families of those people are still including baseline minimum sentencing for serious hurting. The government has said it will implement all crimes. For many years I have been lobbying for that 67 of the recommendations of the 2009 Victorian exact initiative because of two girls in my electorate Bushfires Royal Commission. One of the who were killed: Colleen and Laura Irwin. Every time recommendations local councils have had to deal with we talk about minimum sentencing I make sure I is the issue of neighbourhood safer places, or, as they mention the names of those girls so their parents know would be better called, places of last resort. I think there that something has been done in their honour and to is a perception in the community that these places are make sure that what happened to those girls — they safe, but when you have really bad fires such as the were killed by a repeat offender — never happens to Black Saturday fires the safest place to be is not in the any other family. area. We need to make sure there is some protection for communities, but we also need to make sure people Other initiatives taken by the government are in the know they need to have their own responsible fire plan health field. We are going to increase beds; reduce and know that, if the fires are as bad as Black waiting lists; improve facilities; and, with the $1 billion Saturday’s, they should heed warnings, leave their health infrastructure fund, boost numbers of place and go either to a friend’s place or go to some ambulances and mobile intensive care ambulance area other than where the fire storm is coming through. paramedics. Again, we in Shepparton will be getting some of those. The royal commission asked the former state government to identify neighbourhood safer places and In the area of education there is going to be funding for respond on that issue, but the former government an additional 150 primary welfare officers. These immediately passed that responsibility to councils welfare officers in primary schools will provide early without giving them the appropriate funding. Councils intervention, diagnosis and referral. It is very important now have to deal with that issue and community that we pick up mental health, welfare and social expectations surrounding it. If you look at the Country problems early so that the families, the schools and the Fire Authority website, which is the appropriate place community can deal with those and make sure there are to find out about the best place to have a programs in place to deal at an early stage with young neighbourhood safer place or a place of last resort and people with such problems. If you can get to them early where community members can go to seek safety from they can be supported throughout their whole life. a bushfire, you find that there are about I turn to the issue of abuse or neglect of children. The 157 neighbourhood safer places that have been media has reported many instances of appalling child identified. Not all communities have a neighbourhood abuse and neglect. The government is undertaking a safer place, so councils are dealing with that. They are comprehensive judicial review of Victoria’s child working through that, and they are trying to make sure communities not only are safe but also feel safe. This is

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1079 another issue that councils are having to deal with, and Mrs POWELL — I ask the member for Melton not the former state government just passed that to talk about the desalination plant. The election responsibility onto them. promises I made as a member of Parliament can now be met, and I am delighted about that. This government is One of the areas this government is addressing via an going to make sure it honours all of its election inquiry is something very close to my heart — that is, commitments. I am proud to be a member of the the food bowl modernisation project. All of us in this Baillieu-Ryan coalition government. place want to make sure that irrigation is upgraded, as we have an old irrigation system that needs to be Mr HULLS (Niddrie) — I want to start, as is the upgraded. This inquiry will investigate the probity of tradition in this place in the debate on the motion to the decision making in relation to the implementation adopt the address-in-reply to the Governor’s speech, by of the food bowl project and the north–south pipeline. It congratulating you, Deputy Speaker, on your will look at the social, economic and environmental appointment to high office. I also want to commiserate impacts of the project and at the impacts the project with you about the fact that you did not get the gig you continues to have on people who live in northern wanted even though you had the numbers. Victoria. I live in that area, and I have to say it is one of the biggest issues. Irrigators still come into my office Honourable members interjecting. saying they are going to have to get out of the industry because of the cost of water and the fact that they do The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! I will have not know if they are going to have irrigation water. order in the house.

An honourable member interjected. Mr HULLS — I also want to congratulate all the new members who have given their first speeches. In Mrs POWELL — I am going to ignore years to come their first speeches will be looked upon interjections because I know my community and I as something that defines them and as something they know the level of angst there is about the north–south will be judged by. In particular I want to congratulate pipeline. People have continued to come into my office members on this side on their stunning performances in over the time the pipeline has been there. This their first speeches. They gave speeches that were based government went to the last election saying, ‘We will on philosophy, social justice and true beliefs; they were not take water from north of the Great Dividing Range’. not Australian Women’s Weekly world discovery tours It said that before the election, and after the election it of their electorates. When one looks at the first did just that. An unelected, unappointed and speeches of new members, one can see an absolute unrepresentative group of people went to the former difference in philosophy between the Labor Party and government and said, ‘If you give us some water, we those opposite. We are very proud to stand for social will give you water through a north–south pipeline’. justice in this place. Whether we are in government or This contentious issue will be looked at — it will go in opposition we will continue to do that, and so I under the microscope — and we will see whether the congratulate in particular members on this side. social implications were looked at and whether the environmental issues were looked at and we will see if I am fortunate to be the shadow Minister for Education; the community is getting value for money. it is a great gig. When we look at the Governor’s speech and at the comments made about education, we One of the other things we have done as a government certainly see a stark contrast between the is stop the water from going through the pipeline. In Liberal-Nationals view of education and our view of effect we have turned off the water, and it will only be education. We have said previously, and our leader has turned on again for critical human needs. We are going said, that we were not a perfect government; that goes to phase out Melbourne’s reliance on the north–south without saying. No government is. But there is general pipeline. We have always said that Melbourne has other consensus in the community that education was our alternatives for water. Nobody wants to see Melbourne no. 1 priority. It absolutely was our no. 1 priority. When or any other community run out of water, but the you look at the Governor’s speech, you realise that that former government failed to find other options to position stands in stark contrast to that of the new supply Melbourne’s water requirements. There were government. The speech contains something like other options like recycling and run-off — — 70 paragraphs that set out the priorities of the new government, and education barely rates a mention. Mr Nardella interjected. There are four paragraphs on education, which goes to show quite clearly that education has never been a

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1080 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 priority of conservative governments in Victoria. This minister in the department. What does it say about the conservative government will be no different. government when the Minister for Education is not the senior minister in the Department of Education and I call it a conservative government, and it is interesting Early Childhood Development? It shows clearly that to note that it is being branded by those opposite as the education is not a priority of this government. As I said, Baillieu-Ryan government. We know why it is being if members look at the Governor’s speech, they will see branded in that way: the Leader of The Nationals is four small paragraphs about education. running around the place making it quite clear to anyone who wants to listen that he is the co-Premier of What has happened since the election? What education this state. Word has gone out that the government has to policies have been progressed since this government be branded as the Baillieu-Ryan government in order to was elected? The government said when in opposition keep The Nationals on side — — that it wanted teachers to be valued. It made an ironclad commitment, and it was made by the shadow Minister Honourable members interjecting. for Education at the time, the member for Nepean, and also by Mr Hall, a member for Eastern Victoria Region Mr HULLS — ‘Hear, hear!’, they say. No decision in another place, who is now the lead minister for of any substance is made in Victoria without the education. They made it clear that Victorian teachers co-Premier being consulted and giving it a tick. That is would be the best paid in the nation — and it was not a the reality. That is why we are hearing mention of the commitment made at a point in time; it was an ongoing Baillieu-Ryan government in debate. commitment.

In politics, as in life, you are judged not just by what We all know how the EBA (enterprise bargaining you say but by what you do as well, particularly when agreement) process works. We all know that there will as a minister you get the opportunity to implement your be an EBA in relation to teachers or police in one state vision and your government’s policies. I repeat that and an EBA for teachers and police in another state at a education was the no. 1 priority of the Bracks and the different time. But this commitment was ironclad: Brumby governments. It was not just in our statements Victorian teachers would be the highest paid in the but it was also demonstrated by our actions. Whether it nation, and that would be on an ongoing basis. Instead was retention rates on the rise, whether it was literacy the government has now turned its back on that and numeracy programs, whether it was schools being commitment. It has sent a message to teachers that they rebuilt or whether it was specialist programs being are not valued. It has said, ‘You are not as valued as we expanded, the fact is that we had a very good record told you you were when we were in opposition. Now when it came to education in this state. We said it was we are in government, we do not value you the way we our no. 1 priority, and our actions spoke even louder did when we were in opposition’. than our words. I repeat that this stands in stark contrast to the Baillieu-Ryan government, the government of The offer that has been made to teachers is 2.5 per cent; co-premiers. anything else has to be offset by productivity gains. To make Victorian teachers the highest paid in the nation Consider what the following confirms about where at the moment would require something like an 8 per education stands on the government’s list of priorities: cent pay rise — but that is at the moment. Western the coalition did not release a detailed education policy Australia is about to go into an EBA round, as is New with any vision during the election campaign. It had South Wales. We will have to wait to see the outcomes 11 years to develop some ideas, some innovation and from those negotiations. The government has offered some excellent policies in education, but it absolutely 2.5 per cent. My memory — and I could be wrong — is failed to do so. The coalition has not even promised to that there was a clause in the last EBA, which was develop an education policy, as it did in relation to entered into by the former government, that said that at health, since it has been in government — that is, in its the end of the EBA, until a new EBA is entered into, an first 120 days. It has not even promised to do that. automatic flow-on of 2.5 per cent will go to teachers. When you look at how the departments and portfolios That is in the current EBA. What the government is have been carved up, you see that if education was the promising and has committed to in its offer is no more no. 1 priority, you would have had the Minister for than exists at the end of the current EBA. In other Education as the senior minister in the Department of words, the government is not offering anything new to Education and Early Childhood Development. The teachers. I think it is an insult to teachers, and we will education minister is really no more than a see how that plays out. parliamentary secretary, because he is not the lead

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1081

The government also said that it wanted to ensure that due course’. That was not the commitment. The teaching facilities and standards in our schools were of commitment was that money would be paid at the start the highest order. One of the first decisions it made in of the school year, and not one cent has been paid. adhering to that commitment to upgrade standards in our schools and to have more programs was to cut Let us look at some of the other things this government $338 million out of the education budget. It is not just has done in education since it was elected to me saying that; that is what the department is saying. government. It has to be embarrassed about the absolute We know that the Department of Education and Early debacle in relation to the funding of the second stage of Childhood Development has been told it must find cuts the Eastern Autistic School — a school that Labor of at least $338 million out of its budget, including supported by delivering the first phase and by $36 million this financial year. It is an absolute committing $8 million to the second phase. The fact is nonsense to be saying that programs will not be that local members in that area have played absolutely affected. The fact is that programs, particularly in appalling politics with this. All I can say is thank relation to disabled kids, disadvantaged kids and goodness for the hard work of Shaun Leane in another disenfranchised kids, whether they be programs for place to ensure that the government finally went to jelly autism or other programs, are all under threat by the in relation to this issue and has decided to put in the need to cut the budget by $338 million. money. We do not mind the government going to jelly in relation to issues such as this, but it is Shaun Leane The government also said it would support Catholic and who has mounted a fantastic campaign on this matter. independent schools and it would meet 25 per cent of the cost of the education of kids in those schools. The We also have the debacle down at Torquay. We government also said, ‘We know Labor has done that promised that the current school there would end up as well. We know Labor has made that commitment. being a P–12 school, and we built a brand-new primary We are going further, and we are going to ensure that school at a site in North Torquay. Government $45 million extra will be paid to Catholic and members are now saying, ‘No, we’re going to reduce independent schools by the start of this school year’. I the current school to a P–6 school and we’ll build a have kids at school. My young boy in grade 2 has his brand-new secondary college on a site that’s not big last day of his first term tomorrow. We know enough for a secondary college’. That is not what the $45 million is supposed to have been paid to Catholic community wants, but the minister says, ‘We have had and independent schools by the start of the school year. that policy for five or six years’. Guess what? The first term has just about finished and not one cent Demographics change. The community down there is of that $45 million has been paid to Catholic and urging the minister to go to jelly on this issue, just as he independent schools. When it is put to him the minister did on the Eastern Autistic School, because they think it says, ‘Yes, but we have written them a letter’. is appropriate.

Mr Burgess — On a point of order, Deputy The other thing that is an absolute disgrace is the Speaker, in good conscience I am interested to correct abandonment of the Victorian schools plan. We the speaker. He has obviously made a mistake. I am committed $1.9 billion and then a further $1.8 billion to sure he was referring to his child being in a public rebuild, renovate or modernise every government school. school in the state, and that commitment was based on an independent assessment of need by the department. The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! That is not a The Essendon Keilor College, one of those schools point of order, and the member for Hastings knows that which is in my electorate, had been prioritised and had well. been earmarked for funding of $10 million. The minister is now saying, ‘Bad luck. Guess what our Mr HULLS — As you can see, Deputy Speaker, his priorities are? Our priorities are grubby politics, where career has kicked on. we had candidates deciding what should be getting upgraded in Tory electorates, as opposed to the real The fact is that not one cent of that $45 million has needs of the education community’. This confirms that been handed to Catholic and independent schools, but we now have a government that is prepared to play the minister says, ‘Don’t worry. I have written a letter’. politics with the education of young kids in this state. What the minister is really saying is he is asking Government members will live to regret the fact that Catholic and independent schools to give credit — that they are playing politics with kids. is, to be creditors — to the government in relation to this $45 million. He is basically saying, ‘Lend the Mr R. HSMIT (Minister for Environment and government back the money. We will pay it to you in Climate Change) — I start my contribution to debate on

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1082 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 the adoption of the address-in-reply to the Governor’s people in my area that we can finally move forward and speech by thanking the electors of Warrandyte for get some things done. placing their trust in me for another term and for playing a part in increasing the Liberal margin. I note We have some great plans for the Warrandyte that in the 2010 election the Labor vote fell electorate over the next four years. We have committed significantly, as did the Greens vote, and the margins to delivering on the redevelopment of the Ringwood for those two parties came to the Liberal Party. I am railway station, an issue that has been out there for I do very grateful to constituents in the electorate for giving not know how many years. Through every budget the me the opportunity to again come into this place and Ringwood community and the Maroondah City represent them, as I proudly do. Council waited with bated breath for the Treasurer of the day to say that the government was finally going to I would like to begin by saying that elections are not do the works that were desperately required at the won by individuals and that there is a great team behind station, and every single year they were disappointed. It me. I would like to put on the record my thanks to those was with great relief that the Ringwood community who assisted in my being re-elected: Jeff Ryall, my learnt that this government has promised to deliver on electorate chair, and the team behind him — Nora that commitment during its term in office. Lamont, who ran my campaign, Bentleigh Gibson, Grant King and many others who stood up and did the I raised issues involving schools in my area many times hard yards. We did not take the attitude that it was a in this place but they were overlooked. The severe safe seat; we were out at the shopping centres and at the maintenance issues that were prevalent were never prepolling. Certainly the response I received from given a look-in by the previous government. I am residents in the Warrandyte electorate was one of great pleased to be able to say to the schools in my area that support, and that was borne out on election day. now they have the opportunity to get that work done and to offer facilities that students can be proud of: the I also want to say a big thankyou to those people who best learning facilities for the 21st century. stand behind all of us in this place — our families. I thank my wife, Avril, who put up with the political This government has also committed to doing some campaign during a very busy time and solidly looked major renovation work at the Warrandyte Reserve to after our children, Brodie and Jaime, who were too accommodate all the clubs that use it. The Warrandyte young to understand what was going on. They just netball, cricket, football and junior football clubs have knew that their dad was not home all that often and that combined to lobby me over the last few years to have a life can get pretty busy. I put on record my thanks to all facility built that will accommodate the families who those people, but in particular to my family. attend activities run by those various clubs. In the two years that I had been raising the issue with the former In the four months since the Baillieu government took Minister for Sport and Recreation and the former office it has been a great relief to me and to my government my requests fell on deaf ears, but again this community that we are finally able to get some things government has been able to make a commitment that done. We have a great opportunity now that we do not that facility will be delivered in its first term. have to engage in correspondence warfare with ministers who do not care in a government that did not In the first four months a few small issues have been want to look at any of the issues in my electorate. At attended to. They might seem small when I talk about last we are able to sit down with and take issues to them, but they were issues that could easily have been ministers and the government and actually get things addressed by the previous government. Through sheer done. It has been a great pleasure in the last four bloody-mindedness it simply did not want to respond to months to have people in government listen to what my constituents in my electorate. Reduced speed limit signs electorate wants. have been erected near Andersons Creek Primary School. That seems like a small thing, but for two For a long time — before my time and for the last years, despite the tabling of a petition signed by 11 years, but most obviously to me in the last four 770 Warrandyte residents, the former government years — the government of the day did not give the refused to put up those signs. In just the first three or Warrandyte electorate the time of day. Schools were four months of our term we have been able to get those not maintained, public transport issues were not looked signs up, and the response to the delivery of that small at and police issues were not looked at. The electorate project has been enormous. I have had people write to was consistently overlooked by the former government. me, email me and come up to me in the street and thank Budget after budget we saw barely a line item on the this government for erecting those signs and making the Warrandyte electorate, so it is a great relief for the street next to that school a little safer for the kids.

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1083

Another small project that has been completed is a It is a bit galling to have Labor members come in here keep-clear zone in one of the streets in North now and complain that after four months we have not Ringwood. For two or three years the former Minister fixed the problems they left us after 11 long, dark years. for Roads and Ports refused to tick off on just putting I listened to them; they are acting like members of a paint on a road — a $300 project. It was absolutely government in exile. You only have to listen to their ridiculous. The whole street was fantastically pleased contributions to the address-in-reply debate or many about that issue. I was a little late getting to the photo other debates to realise they are itching to say that the session organised by the local paper, and when I Victorian public made a mistake. It is on the tip of their walked up to the 12 or so residents who were there they tongues. They are dying to say it, and I am sure one of said, ‘We were just talking about the fact that every them will let it slip sooner or later. single one of us is a former Labor voter and every single one of us voted for you. None of us has voted An honourable member interjected. Liberal in our whole life’. Over this $300 project the former government lost the votes of people in that Mr R. SMITH — The member for Richmond street. It certainly lost the votes of those 12 residents, acknowledged that we won. I am pleased about that, but potentially the votes of the whole street. It is and I am waiting for him to thank the coalition for absolutely amazing that a government could be so allowing him to keep his seat instead of giving it to a bloody-minded about such a small project and not listen Green. I am yet to have that thanks. to constituents. That is the price it pays. One of the big issues that was raised with me during the Another very contentious issue in the area was a bus last election campaign was the previous government’s interchange at Ringwood railway station put forward by waste of money. That is a pointed issue for me, because the previous government against community wishes that is why I put my hand up to enter politics after three and without any consultation. I was very pleased to years of the Bracks government. I saw the waste and have the Minister for Public Transport, Terry Mulder, the fact that the Labor government did not seem to come out to the area with me and the member for identify the money it had the responsibility to use. It did Bayswater, who worked very hard with me to ensure not realise that it was not its money. That is the main that that project was scrapped. It was amazing to go reason I put up my hand to join the Liberal Party in down there and join 50-odd people, including members 2002 and begin on the path that has led me here today. of the RSL, members of Legacy and Vietnam vets who I firmly believe Victorians voted for a change because were aghast that the former government planned to put they had been let down on the issues of law and order, a bus route through the memorial Clocktower Park. public transport and waste, as I said. I am delighted that These are people who should be respected by our Victorians made the choice they did. Those opposite community. They put their lives on the line in the past need to sit back and understand why that happened, in the service of their country, and to ignore them is instead of coming in here and spewing forth the really to ignore the very thing we should be embracing. vitriolic comments they have made in so many different I was delighted to get down there and have the Minister ways. for Public Transport cancel that project. On the subject of vitriol, the personal attacks on the I go back to 27 November 2010 when the Baillieu Treasurer I have heard over the last few days have been government was elected — and wasn’t that a great day! extraordinary. Victorians voted in this government. There was a huge swing to the conservative parties, and They expressed confidence in the member for I must say that although there are still many Labor Hawthorn to become Premier, in the Leader of The members in this Parliament I think all bar about two Nationals to become Deputy Premier and in the experienced a swing against them, and in some cases member for Scoresby to become Treasurer of this great quite a severe swing. It was very clear that Victorians state. The comments made imply that the previous were just sick and tired of the spin, of the broken government was the greatest economic manager this promises, of a Premier who would not listen and of an country has ever seen. I ask you rhetorically, Deputy uncaring government that really did not have a care in Speaker, if that were the case — if John Brumby and the world about the electorate. It got to the stage where, John Lenders, the previous Labor treasurers, were that vitriolic as Labor members were in this house, at the good — would we be left with the enormous black end of the day and as 27 November showed us, holes, the projects that were announced but not funded, members of the former government were the only ones the hospitals without anything inside them and the rail who still believed the lies and the exaggerations. lines that have no power connected to them? If they were such great economic managers, would we have

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1084 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 gone from a debt of $3.5 billion in past years to a debt In closing, it is a privilege to stand here as a member of that exceeds $32 billion now? the Baillieu government and a pleasure to work with my cabinet colleagues. It is a privilege to work with Mr Newton-Brown interjected. other members of the coalition. I particularly welcome the new members. I look forward to working with them Mr R. SMITH — As the member for Prahran all. reminds me, would we have projects like myki? Would we have projects like smart meters? Would we have the Mr NARDELLA (Melton) — I congratulate all the renewable energy projects that the Auditor-General so presiding officers, and in particular the Speaker, on eloquently discussed in his report? There was no due their election. diligence and no regard for the amount of money that was spent. It is extraordinary. I can only imagine that if The spivs and the white-shoe brigade are back in town. Victorians had experienced the poor fortune — — Members of the Liberal-Nationals coalition do one thing and do it very well — that is, they look after Honourable members interjecting. themselves and their mates. We saw it here at the garden party. The fascinator set, the spivs and the The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! If the member white-shoe brigade were out there ingratiating for Richmond and the member for Eltham wish to have themselves with the new government. The a conversation, I ask them to have it outside the conservatives promote their mates and incorporate them chamber. I am having difficulty hearing. into all facets of the Victorian community. They will Mr R. SMITH — If Victorians had experienced the infiltrate systematically. The collaborators will come poor fortune of having another Labor government in out of the woodwork, sucking favours here and this state, I can only imagine that it would have simply information there, influencing decisions only to benefit borrowed more money to pay for the many projects it themselves and their colleagues. That was how it was in had announced that were unfunded or underfunded. the seven long, dark years of the Kennett government. Time and again these collaborators were appointed to In the remaining time allowed to me I want to say that I various positions. They took the money to do the dirty see it as a privilege to begin this term of the Baillieu work, and in power this time around the government government as a member of cabinet. I am honoured and will do the same. delighted to do so. There are three goals I will pursue as Minister for Youth Affairs: increasing mentoring Let us take some examples. Tony Nutt, who was the opportunities for young people, encouraging youth Liberal Party campaign director, is now the volunteerism and encouraging youth to pursue director-general of the Victorian cabinet office. What alternative career paths, something I have taken a great does that mean? It means it is a job for the boys. He has interest in. Many young people are not academically been rewarded for having done the work as the minded, and it is important that we ensure that campaign director — — alternative career paths are made available to them. As Mr Wynne interjected. someone who left school at 16, I believe there are several career paths available to people who do not Mr NARDELLA — The member for Richmond want to or cannot go to university. I want to encourage asked, ‘Was it advertised?’. Of course it was not those who see a different path for themselves career advertised, because the Liberal Party and The Nationals wise. That is something I want to embrace. work in these underhanded and nefarious ways to appoint their own people to these positions. They look As Minister for Environment and Climate Change, I am after themselves, and the position was created looking after the government’s agenda in those areas. especially for Tony Nutt, the former campaign director The government understands that the environment is for the Liberal Party. our most valuable asset and that it should be protected and conserved. The government is investing heavily in Let us have a look at some of the staff members that our parks, in our forests and in reducing our exposure to former Prime Minister John Howard had on his payroll: bushfire risk. The important thing — and I think this Michael Brennan and Peter Poggioli. Here we go! A point was fundamentally misunderstood by the couple of others have been appointed by this mob — previous government — is that bushfire is a huge issue this government that is supposed to be open and in the protection of our environment, and we should transparent. This government is supposed to be take every possible step to mitigate the risk of bushfire. governing with a new paradigm for this state, yet these people are appointed with no advertising of the roles,

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1085 no openness and no transparency. Their positions are was to increase the size of the cabinet from 20 members not open to the market so that other people can have a to 22, to look after The Nationals. That is all they do; shot at them. Government members appoint their own they just look after themselves. It is not about fixing the to look after themselves, and those people are now on state. the public payroll. The government is in the process of getting rid of all the Just wait, Deputy Speaker, until the board positions great programs we put in place to look after country start to be filled. All of those people will be knocking Victoria. The Regional Infrastructure Development on the Premier’s door and the minister’s door saying, ‘I Fund is gone and has been replaced by the sham am in the Liberal Party. I am in The Nationals. I want Regional Growth Fund, 70 per cent of which has the sitting fees. I want the board fees. I will look after already been expended by this government. your back, and you owe me!’. That will be their mantra Government members are out there cutting and slashing as far as board appointments go. funding, and that will be seen in the budget that comes along. The Nationals only look after themselves. We all saw it here at the garden party when the fascinator set came out. They were the ones who ruined Let us go to myth no. 2: the Liberals are economically the state during the seven long, dark years of the responsible. Wrong! They create this image, but the Kennett government, when the dirty deals were done reality is that they leave people and families behind. time and again and when the brown paper bags came They talk about keeping all their promises, but in fact out at every opportunity. People from DDB Needham, they are going through a process of systematically ITT Sheraton and Crown Casino, the people who put breaking their promises because they do not care. together those dirty deals, were there. Already they are talking about black holes left by the previous Labor government where there are none. They Honourable members interjecting. will talk about the poor and the dispossessed, but they will pull the money out of the programs that help them. The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! Government members will come to order. Let us take a look at one of the major areas where the poor and dispossessed — those people with low Mr NARDELLA — These are the same people socioeconomic status — absolutely get the leg-up. who have been briefing the ministers. These are the Already it has been announced that $338 million will be people who ran the state down over seven years. They pulled from education. What do you do to try to give closed 326 schools, 12 public hospitals and six railway young people a future? You give them an education. lines in Victoria, and now they have come back to brief The Liberal Party and The Nationals are about taking and to give advice to ministers in this government. In those opportunities away from them. This will also the final analysis it was these nefarious characters who happen in housing. Imagine the present Minister for brought down the Kennett government from without Housing going into an expenditure review committee and within. You see them here. They are having coffee and putting any sort of case for the people she is there and crumpets, and they are taking the silver service to to represent! We have already seen this government’s give the advice and undertake the nefarious work they attitude to public transport and health, and I will come do. back to that.

Let me explode a number of myths. Myth no. 1: The All the things I have mentioned represent this Nationals represent country and regional Victoria. Is government’s modus operandi. The programs they cut that not a myth of huge proportions? The old Country in the 1990s will be cut again, mark my words. Dental Party is dead; it died 40 years ago when ‘Black Jack’ services were cut under the Kennett government — we McEwen, a former Australian Prime Minister, passed saw those kids and those families — and that will away. The Nationals stand for one thing and one thing happen again. only: the white cars and the chauffeurs. That is all they are concerned about. They just want the white cars to Myth no. 3: the Liberals care for the community. That drive them around, because they have been promoted is obviously wrong. They do not understand and they need a driver. It is a bit hard to drive around communities as they only see people in groups in terms when you are in The Nationals; you need a driver to do of their own interests and individual survival. The that for you. Liberals jump onto issues to bolster their electability, but they do not really believe in the cause. The only What else do The Nationals want? The higher duties groups the Liberals really listen to are their favourite allowance. What was the Premier’s first decision in business groups and businesspeople. That is a facade, relation to fixing Victoria’s problems? His first decision

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1086 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 however, as the real business groups are not groups at government has slashed funding for the hospital at all but the favoured sons and daughters of the Liberal Armstrongs Creek. Party. They are the only ones who get a look-in. Uncle Ron and Uncle Lloyd are back in town. Let us now look at child protection. The Labor government’s solution was to increase the number of There is a reversal taking place of the former Labor child protection workers. What is the conservative government’s philosophical and ideological touchstone solution to this, even though it was not its policy? There of governing for the whole of the state. When in are no further workers. There is no further support for government, a number of us discussed matters that existing workers and no budget increase, and there is a concerned areas outside of our electorates. Every minister who does not even read her briefs. You might question time ministers would come in here and talk need to write them in crayon for her to be able to read about what was happening in places like Horsham, them. Even then she would not read her briefs. All she Warrnambool, Benalla and the Latrobe Valley, but that has put in place is a further inquiry, to run until the end has been turned on its head. It was a central tenet of the of the year, to find out what the problems are in the Bracks and Brumby Labor governments to make system. That comes after report after report — two decisions that benefited every community, township, Ombudsman’s reports, an Auditor-General’s report and hamlet, regional city, suburb and major city and the internal reports. The government cannot read them, the people and families who lived there. minister cannot read them and the real tragedy is that the government is letting down vulnerable children in The Labor government helped businesses throughout Victoria. all of Victoria. That is why we have a strong economy. The Labor government dealt with disadvantage and We have been waiting months now for the myki report. created jobs and opportunities throughout all of Where is it? It has been over 150 days and the Victoria, not just in Labor Party seats. We maintained government still has not released it. It continues on with the budget in the black and reduced unemployment in the lazy position that it held when it was in opposition. all the regions. The last report, which came out only What it has done is release a report a day since the two or three weeks ago, reported the budget in surplus election. What is the solution for public transport? The by $400 million. We cut and abolished taxes, especially government slashes services. It is going to dump for the business community. passengers at Richmond station instead of continuing through the loop. It will cut rail services on the The attacks will come. Already we have seen working Williamstown and Werribee lines. It has increased people lose out on Easter Sunday, regardless of the public transport fares and it will start cancelling train happy clappers on the other side. Whilst government services. We will bring this government to account. The members are out at church, whilst they are out at mass Labor Party will develop policies over the next four on Easter Sunday — a sacred day for the Christian years. We certainly look forward to the election. community in Victoria — they will be sending people out to work. While government members will be at Mr BLACKWOOD (Narracan) — It is with mass, at church, clapping away then going home and pleasure that I rise to deliver my contribution to this having Easter turkey and Easter lunch, they will be address-in-reply debate. Firstly, I would like to sending people out to work on that day. congratulate you, Deputy Speaker, on your appointment and also congratulate the member for Bass The attacks will come, as ideologically that is where the on his appointment as our Speaker. You have done a conservatives sit. They will attack the poor, the fantastic job so far. I am sure you will serve this dispossessed, the advocacy groups and the communities chamber very well over the next three and a bit years. that did not vote conservative, and this will become Could I also congratulate the outgoing governor, David much clearer with the budget. It will attack democratic de Kretser, and his wife, Jan. They have made a institutions. Another early decision of the government significant and positive contribution to the lives of was to cut the opposition’s budget from $2.4 million to many Victorians over their term, and I wish them both $1 million. That is what this government believes well for the future. should be done to increase democracy in this state. The Governor outlined in his speech the blueprint for If you are sick, this government will not do the right the coalition’s direction over the next four years. This thing. Already the Labor Party has forced the blueprint is clearly and strongly weighted towards government to reverse its position on the Olivia recognition of and a plan to address the failures of the Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre. The previous Labor government — in particular, the waste and mismanagement that has jeopardised opportunities

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1087 for significant improvements in government service While I am focusing on regional growth and the delivery. It is estimated that the Bracks and Brumby Regional Growth Fund, there are significant challenges governments wasted on average $1 billion per year currently being faced by the native forest timber every year they were in government. That is $11 billion industry, particularly in East Gippsland. I will give you over its years in office, which equates to four new a bit of background about the industry in East hospitals each year the size of the West Gippsland Gippsland over many years. In 1986 the former Premier Hospital in my electorate. of this state, John Cain, established a timber industry strategy. It was a great document. It was a great piece of Waste and mismanagement of the Victorian economy work that gave the industry 15 years of security, but at over the past 11 years has hurt Victorian families with that time it reduced the amount of sawlog available to projects like the desalination plant, myki and be harvested in East Gippsland from 340 000 cubic HealthSMART. The member for Melton was going on metres to 178 000 cubic metres — a significant drop in about the report on myki, but what we want to know is activity and a significant hit to the communities of East where is the money. Where has the money gone? The Gippsland. Then in 2002 along came the Our Forests, failure and mismanagement of those projects is going to Our Future policy of the Bracks government. Once hurt every Victorian for many years to come. The again East Gippsland took a hit — a drop from Baillieu government is determined to reduce waste and 178 000 cubic metres a year to 120 000 cubic metres a use the savings to benefit the most vulnerable in our year. Then we had the Brumby hit — the extra communities, improve community safety and provide 45 000 hectares of national park in East Gippsland. more resources for schools, hospitals, police and other That was another 50 000-cubic-metre-a-year hit, from public services. Here we are, only about 120 days out 120 000 to 70 000. Once again the economies of those from the election, and already the coalition is delivering communities took a massive hit. on this promise. The government is supposed to manage flora and fauna A good example is the 17.5 per cent electricity price across the entire native forest estate. Survey and reduction for concession card holders. After only assessment work should have been done to support this. 120 days we have already delivered an extra 350 police The Department of Sustainability and Environment was to bolster numbers across many parts of the state. In unable to do this work because the Bracks and Brumby particular an extra 16 police have been allocated to my governments failed to provide the funds needed for the electorate, which has been a real positive for the morale work to be carried out. What we have is a concentration of the hardworking, dedicated police officers in the of that survey work only in areas that are going to be Latrobe Valley. The coalition has also made significant harvested for timber, so in relation to animals like the inroads into its promise of improving community powerful owl and the long-footed potoroo, individual safety, with 100 additional Victoria Police officers species are managed on an individual-species basis, not assigned to the transit safety division. on a population basis, across the whole native forest estate. This has left the industry high and dry. After only 120 days the Baillieu government has established the Regional Growth Fund, which will These challenges directly relate to the previous Labor provide $1 billion for regional projects over the next government’s decision to expand the national park eight years. The legislation supporting this fund has estate in East Gippsland by another 45 000 hectares. been adopted by the Parliament. It will facilitate the This decision was made by the Brumby government setting up of regional advisory committees that will and accompanied by the promise that there would be no advise the minister of projects that meet the criteria and net job losses in the timber industry. Once again the will thus become eligible to access this fund. Brumby Labor government let down rural communities, in East Gippsland in particular. It was The Gippsland local government network has very quick to declare the expansion of the national park developed a Gippsland regional plan, which has already but failed to deliver on the commitments made to the identified a number of high-priority and some almost timber industry that would have secured those jobs. shovel-ready projects. With the Baillieu government’s These promises include the review and return of special $25 million commitment to the Latrobe Valley protection zones to provide substitute resources for Advantage Fund the coalition has very clearly industry and the setting up of a small log line, with the demonstrated its determination to assist Gippsland, and provision of $2 million towards the cost of this venture. in particular the Latrobe Valley, through the challenging times ahead that could prove even more Special protection zones were set up over time to difficult for industry if the Gillard federal government provide temporary protection to threatened species of introduces a carbon tax. fauna but were always intended to be returned to

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1088 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 production forest once the need for them had expired. my electorate that has still not been delivered. A new As I said before, the Brumby government failed to ambulance station was promised to Neerim South. We commission the survey work needed to free up these are still waiting — another broken promise, another areas and make those resources available for black hole to be filled by the Baillieu government. harvesting. The Brumby government did not show the commitment needed to encourage investment in a small In education, the Baillieu government has already log line which would have allowed for the harvesting of honoured part of its commitment to give school low sawlog-yielding stands of forests and, importantly, principals more power, with the introduction of the the facilitating of a market for timber derived from the Education and Training Reform Amendment (School silvicultural thinning of regrowth. Thinning would have Safety) Bill of 2010. The Baillieu government has provided small-diameter resource in the short term and, already demonstrated in my electorate a genuine more importantly, would have increased the growth rate commitment to get out into the community, be of retained trees, which would have in turn increased accessible, be transparent and tackle the problems that the sustainable yield and timber available to the have developed after 11 years of neglect by the Labor industry in the future. The Brumby government had government. once again sold out the native forest timber industry for what it thought would be political gain. The new ministers have been very proactive, and I have had a number of visits from ministers in my electorate By the end of June this year up to six harvesting in the first 120 days of this government. The Minister contractors will be out of work as a direct result of the for Planning, Matthew Guy, has met with the shire on Brumby government’s political dalliance with the planning issues and how to manage growth — we have hardcore, city-based Greens in preference to caring for growth of about 4 to 5 per cent in the Baw Baw shire country communities. In my role as Parliamentary each year. The Minister for Environment and Climate Secretary for Forestry and Fisheries I am assisting the Change has twice visited my electorate and met with Minister for Agriculture and Food Security to do all we the shire, as well as with the Friends of the Horseshoe can to find work for these contractors and their crews. Bend Tunnel, who are under significant pressure from green groups to have the tunnel, which is an important In planning, the Baillieu government has promised to part of our heritage, destroyed. The Minister for Sport make more land available in growth areas in rural and Recreation and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs met Victoria to encourage population growth and also to with the shire, local scout groups and the RSL. The make land more affordable. Already after only Minister for Tourism and Major Events came down to 120 days the Minister for Planning has ticked off on a enjoy the World’s Longest Lunch event, which was to number of planning scheme amendments in the Latrobe be staged at Noojee Trestle Bridge but because of the shire that will deliver on our promise to provide 20 to weather had to be transferred to the Outpost Restaurant. 25 years supply of land. The Brumby government’s It was a great day and a strong indication from the policy of no more than 13 years supply was pushing the Minister for Tourism and Major Events that she is very price of land through the roof, stifling growth in rural supportive of regional areas in terms of tourism areas and putting enormous pressure on land prices due potential. to the lack of supply. The Baillieu government is already delivering on its commitment to allow the Sitting suspended 1.00 p.m. until 2.03 p.m. adjustment of urban growth boundaries in growth areas to accommodate logical inclusions and develop a Business interrupted pursuant to standing orders. population strategy for all of Victoria, not just Melbourne. ABSENCE OF MINISTER

The Baillieu government plan for a $1 billion health The SPEAKER — Order! I have received advice infrastructure fund is a fantastic initiative. It will benefit from the Premier that the Treasurer will be absent from hospitals in growth areas like Baw Baw and Latrobe, question time today as he is attending the ministerial and it is already filling black holes left by the Brumby council meeting in Canberra. I am advised that any government, such as the commitment to finish off the questions for the Treasurer today should be directed to Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre. The the Minister for Finance. coalition’s pre-election commitment of $2 million for the redevelopment of the emergency department of the West Gippsland Hospital is being honoured, and work on this upgrade will commence very soon. The former Labor government made a pre-2006 election promise in

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1089

QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE on the record the thanks of the government for his service and to note serendipitously that it is five years Mr Finn (Western Metropolitan Region): today since David de Kretser was appointed Governor comments of Victoria. He was announced as Victoria’s 27th Governor on 7 April 2006, and tomorrow he Ms GARRETT (Brunswick) — My question is to completes his five-year term as the representative of the the Premier. I refer the Premier to the outrageous and Crown in this state. offensive comments made on Facebook by a member for Western Metropolitan Region in the Council, Before coming to the role of Governor, David Mr Bernie Finn, in relation to the Islamic faith. I also de Kretser had in his own right a very distinguished refer to his subsequent comments on radio less than career — an internationally respected career — in the 1 hour ago, from which I will quote. The presenter of field of andrology and infertility. He had a the program said: distinguished career in the area of medical research and in education, having worked as a teacher and as a I note that the Premier down there, Ted Baillieu, he says he is communicator in the field of biotechnology. He was sticking by you. closely involved with Monash University over many Mr Finn’s response was: years and has shared responsibility for the establishment of the Centre for Stem Cells and Tissue Yeah, absolutely. Repair.

I ask: can the Premier confirm to the house that he David de Kretser as Governor, and indeed his wife, Jan supports Mr Finn and the comments he made? de Kretser, have occupied Government House with grace and charm. They have given an enormous Mr BAILLIEU (Premier) — I thank the member amount to the state and have supported hundreds of for her question. As I said yesterday, I encourage all Victorians in a wide range of endeavours and situations, Victorians, and indeed all Australians, to demonstrate through fires, through floods and through a range of their commitment to multiculturalism. I encourage all natural disasters, but also in some of the great Australians and all Victorians to demonstrate their celebrations of activity in this state, whether that be in tolerance — — the areas of tourism, sport, the arts or, of course, Ms Garrett — On a point of order, Speaker, the science. They have done it with dignity, energy and Premier has been asked an extremely specific question: compassion — and those who have had the privilege of does he condone the comments of Mr Finn, yes or no? being at Government House for a function will know This is not asking for a broad-ranging answer like the that they have also done it with Astro. Astro is the one we got yesterday. I ask you to bring him back to the guide dog that Governor de Kretser took on to train. question. Astro was wise enough to spot an opportunity for indulgence, failed his guide dog test and stuck around. The SPEAKER — Order! The Premier had been going for only 21 seconds. I do not uphold the point of The Governor’s field of expertise is in men’s health, order. which is a topical subject, as society has only recently felt the capacity to open up and discuss men’s health. Mr BAILLIEU — As I was saying, and as I said David de Kretser as Governor has been an integral part yesterday, I encourage all Victorians to do just as I of that. In his own way he has raised the profile of suggested before, and I am assured that Mr Finn has the men’s health through his public speeches and activities. same view. During his tenure the Governor has been advised by three premiers — Steve Bracks, John Brumby and me. I Governor of Victoria: retirement think on this occasion I can take the liberty to speak on their behalf in saying that we all regard the Governor in Mrs VICTORIA (Bayswater) — My question is to the highest possible terms and we congratulate him on the Premier. Given that this is the last full day of office his service. of his Excellency the Governor, will the Premier inform the house of the contribution that Professor and It is of course a truism that when a Governor is Mrs de Kretser have made to the state? appointed his or her spouse contributes. In her own way Jan de Kretser has done an extraordinary job, again Mr BAILLIEU (Premier) — As today is the last with grace and charm. She had her own career as an sitting day before the Governor, Professor David occupational therapist, and she has supported the de Kretser, retires, I want to take this opportunity to put

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1090 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 governorship and many Victorian communities over say to the community, ‘We need to be more open about this five-year period. confronting sometimes embarrassing issues’. The Governor has not simply done that. He has walked the On behalf of all members of the government, and talk. Anyone who has had the privilege of attending indeed all members of this house, I take this functions at Government House, or indeed anybody opportunity to publicly thank the Governor and who has spent any time in the company of the Mrs de Kretser and wish them all the very best in their Governor, will have been given a clear sense of the retirement. I know how keen David de Kretser is to importance of male health. I note that, with the resume his career in academia and medical research. He agreement of the Deputy Premier, we had the will do that in the future as well as he has in the past. Of opportunity to be versed by the Governor just recently course tomorrow we welcome Alex Chernov as the about these matters. Sometimes it is not easy to raise 28th Governor of Victoria, and we also welcome his these sensitive and sometimes embarrassing issues, but wife, Elizabeth. However, today we pay tribute to the Governor walks the talk on these important issues. Governor David de Kretser for the fantastic job he has That too does him great credit. done on behalf of all Victorians. I add to the comments the Premier has made on behalf Mr ANDREWS (Leader of the Opposition) (By of all of those on our side of the house, and I join with leave) — I wish to add to the comments the Premier the Premier and the broader Victorian community in has made, and I am grateful to the Premier for granting giving thanks, gratitude and praise for the work the leave. Governor and Mrs de Kretser have done in their five years at Government House. There is an often quoted I am pleased to pay tribute to the 27th Governor of our speech from a former Governor, the late Richard great state, Professor David de Kretser, on this, his last McGarvie, which I will now quote from. The former sitting day in office. Professor de Kretser has served Governor said: Victoria over these past five years with honour, integrity and a genuine commitment to every single The office of the Governor should be seen as a symbol of Victorian community, large and small. His commitment unity, strengthening social cohesion … and that of Mrs Jan de Kretser is clear for every … it is important that the person performing the functions of Victorian to see. They have travelled far and wide. head of state be seen to emphasise that the things that bind the They have shown real empathy, compassion and community are stronger than the things that divide. leadership, often in very difficult times for our state. As the Premier noted, they did this at times of fire and I think all members across the chamber and all flood. Victorians would agree that both Professor David de Kretser and Mrs Jan de Kretser have been symbols I particularly recall, and I am sure many other members of unity in Victoria. We thank them for all that they and other Victorians will recall, the dignified and have done. We wish them and their family the very best composed leadership that the Governor and for the future. I know that the Governor will be back at Mrs de Kretser offered during the Black Saturday fires. the Monash Institute of Medical Research almost That leadership, that quiet compassion and that immediately, working on really important matters of certainty, if you like, was a great comfort to so many. I medical research that will benefit patients not just in think the Governor and Mrs de Kretser should be very Australia but indeed right across the world. They have proud of their contribution at what was an extremely our gratitude and indeed our praise. challenging time for our state. Melbourne Racing Club chief executive officer: As the Premier has noted, prior to becoming Governor, comments Professor de Kretser had a very distinguished career. He was an eminent Victorian in his own right, and very Ms HENNESSY (Altona) — My question is to the much so, in terms of his contribution to medical Minister for Racing. I refer the minister to comments research in his work as a medical scientist — that is, as made at a government media event yesterday by an endocrinologist specialising in andrology, Mr Alasdair Robertson, CEO of the Melbourne Racing reproductive biology and health, particularly male Club, including sexist and offensive comments he made health. comparing members of the media to prostitutes and hit men, and I ask: did the minister condemn these I want to expand on the point the Premier made. The comments at the time and does he believe they Governor has not simply spoken about the need to appropriately promote the image of racing in Victoria? speak about male health. The easiest thing to do is to

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1091

Dr NAPTHINE (Minister for Racing) — I thank place for those sorts of comments in racing in Victoria. the honourable member for her question. As members Anybody who suggests that the racing industry of are aware, racing is an important industry in the state of Victoria is at all sexist is absolutely wrong. People of Victoria. It is a multibillion-dollar industry and both genders have served the racing industry well in provides employment for over 70 000 Victorians. Victoria and across Australia at all levels, whether as jockeys, trainers or officials. Males and females have Yesterday I was in the grounds of Parliament House served the racing industry well. promoting what is going to be a significant event for the racing industry this weekend. I was in the company of It was an inappropriate comment for which the person representatives of the Arab horse group; representatives responsible has apologised. I did not hear the comments of Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the at the time, and I condemn them, but I say at the same Deputy Ruler of Dubai and United Arab Emirates time that this should not distract in any way, shape or Minister for Finance; and representatives of the form from what will be a great event on Saturday — Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates. We were the Shadwell Arabian Mile. It is the first time we will promoting the inaugural Shadwell Arabian Mile race, have Arabian horses racing on a Victorian racetrack. It which will be raced on the Anniversary Vase race day is absolutely vital and important for the future of this on Saturday at Caulfield Racecourse. There was a state. media event to promote that race, which is an important race because it will be the first time that Arab horses Honourable members interjecting. will have raced on Australian racetracks under the Australian rules of racing. It is an important issue. The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Altona!

At that conference questions were raised with me about Dr NAPTHINE — It is important for the building not only that event but also other matters to do with of relationships between Victoria and the Victorian racing. Subsequently there were issues raised about industry and the United Arab Emirates. I urge people to some comments made at that event. I can assure the go along to that event. house that I did not hear the comments made at that Mr Madden — I reckon you heard those comments. event. I was not aware of them in any way, shape or I reckon you heard those comments. form. Dr NAPTHINE — The member for Essendon has Ms Allan interjected. just interjected twice, saying, ‘I reckon you heard those The SPEAKER — Order! The member for comments’. That is an absolute lie, and I ask you, Bendigo East! Speaker, to ask him to withdraw.

Dr NAPTHINE — Just take your time. The SPEAKER — Order! I ask the member or Essendon to withdraw. Honourable members interjecting. Mr Madden — I withdraw. The SPEAKER — Order! The minister was giving a serious answer to a serious question. I ask members of Latrobe Valley: government initiatives the opposition and members of the government to Mr NORTHE (Morwell) — My question is to the refrain from interjecting. Deputy Premier, who is the Minister for Regional and Dr NAPTHINE — I was advised this morning that Rural Development. Can the minister advise what the Melbourne Racing Club official who made these action the coalition government is taking to stimulate comments has apologised for what he described as his economic activity in the Latrobe Valley region? stupid and inappropriate comments. An article that Mr RYAN (Minister for Regional and Rural appeared online at www.smh.com.au at 12.43 p.m. on Development) — I thank the member for his question 7 April reports: and for the great work he is doing in the seat of ‘In the heat of the moment I made a stupid comment and I’ve Morwell on behalf of the constituency which he so actually openly apologised for it this morning’, Mr Robertson proudly represents in this place. told radio 3AW. The Latrobe Valley is one of the great productive Of course I do not agree with those comments. Indeed I locations in the state of Victoria. It truly is the believe those comments were totally inappropriate and powerhouse of our state. When one thinks of the totally wrong and should be condemned. There is no extraordinary work undertaken by Sir John Monash in

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1092 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 particular all those decades ago and the enormity of the Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, I am development which has gone on in the Latrobe Valley wondering whether the minister could, as a point of since then, one realises it is nothing less than a clarification, confirm to the house that this is new remarkable story. funding and additional to that provided under Labor’s blueprint of last June. That said, the government is concerned about the impact of recent business closures in the Latrobe Mr RYAN — On the point of order, Speaker, this is Valley, including the closure of the Moe Telstra call a spurious point of order being raised by the member centre. As a consequence of that event 80 full-time jobs for Bendigo East. It should properly be ruled out of and 30 part-time jobs were lost. Retrenched workers are order. eligible for a range of state government assistance programs. They include the Back to Work information The SPEAKER — Order! I ask the Deputy Premier service, which is managed by the Department of to sit down for a moment. I was just about to rule that it Business and Innovation; Skill Up, which is a specialist was not a point of order when he got to his feet. It was training program managed by Skills Victoria; and Job not a point of order. Seeker Fee Waiver, which is to do with the waiver of the normal fees that are otherwise charged for TAFE Mr RYAN — Before I was so rudely interrupted training programs. I am proud to say that Regional when talking about these important issues I was saying Development Victoria is working with all the that the working group will consult widely with companies, the unions and the local council to enable business, with unions and with the general community. this to be done. It will report to me as the minister responsible for these matters. On top of that, there is added uncertainty because of the current discussion about the carbon tax. We now know What we intend to do is make sure that we grow the as a result of the extraordinary admissions made by the future of the Latrobe Valley. We have already acted to former Prime Minister on television on Monday night establish the Latrobe Valley industry and employment that the federal Labor Party is deeply divided on this road map. It is an initiative of our government. We issue. One can only guess as to where it is going to go intend to build on the important work that has been in time to come. These contributing factors add to the undertaken by the local communities. We intend to uncertainty which prevails in the Latrobe Valley. work with the local member, who, as I said, is doing a fantastic job for his community. The same applies to That said, we have a strong and broadly based local the member for Narracan. Under the stewardship and economy in the Latrobe Valley. What we want to do as guidance of the parliamentary secretary, working in a government is ensure that we can add to the vibrant conjunction with me and the government at large, we economy of the communities that live in this great intend to make certain that the bright future which is region of the state. Accordingly I am pleased and proud assured for the Latrobe Valley is made brighter even to say today on behalf of the government that we are still. committing $10 million as a stimulus package for the Latrobe Valley. This is money which will be Monash Medical Centre: children’s centre coordinated and brought into the Latrobe Valley. It will Ms BARKER (Oakleigh) — My question is to the ensure that a range of programs will be available to in Premier. I refer to the commitment the Premier made in turn ensure that we can see added employment and this place on 24 March to building the new Monash industry development in the Latrobe Valley. children’s centre by 2014. Given that the Minister for The implementation of the package will be overseen by Health has admitted this week that, and I quote, ‘We a working group comprising members of Parliament. have indicated it will be delivered partially in this term That group will be chaired by the Parliamentary and partially in the next term’, I ask the Premier to Secretary for Regional Development in another place, overrule his health minister and fully fund the Monash Mr Drum. It will include the Parliamentary Secretary children’s centre so it can be completed by 2014. for Small Business, no other than the member for Mr BAILLIEU (Premier) — Our commitment to Morwell; and it will also include the Parliamentary the Monash children’s centre was made in the election Secretary for Forestry and Fisheries, the member for campaign, and that was a clear commitment. I referred Narracan. This group will consult widely with to that when this question was asked previously. We businesses and the unions — — stand by that commitment, and it has been accurately described by the Minister for Health.

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Autism: eastern suburbs school those families with secondary-school-aged children, have had to either send their children to mainstream Mr WAKELING (Ferntree Gully) — My question schools or travel long distances to specialist secondary is to the Minister for Education. Can the minister schools in suburbs many kilometres away. inform the house of the government’s commitment to education for students with an autism spectrum For a couple of years Labor misled that community into disorder? believing that $8 million would provide a full P–12 college. When on coming to government we looked at Mr DIXON (Minister for Education) — I thank the this closely, we realised that $8 million would only member for his question. The member for Ferntree provide a school for students in prep, year 1 and year 2. Gully is a great supporter of all education facilities and opportunities for every school and every student in the Mr Hulls — On a point of order, Speaker, the eastern suburbs. We have been a great supporter for a minister is now clearly misleading the house. He knows long while of the eastern autism school. Despite a full well that all he has done is reannounce what the distinct lack of support from the former Labor Labor — — government, the team at the Wantirna Heights School for children with autism has been doing a great job. It The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of has provided a wonderful learning environment for order, and the Deputy Leader of the Opposition should those very special children. be well aware of that from his years of experience in this house. When we came to government we were dismayed to realise that no funding had been made available to Mr DIXON — For many years this uncertainty has complete the new school. The former Labor created a high level of anxiety, which is the last thing government had provided only $8 million in the budget these students and their families need, considering their for what was and is a $16 million project — that is, it situation. Under the former government’s plan these had provided for only half the project. In previous years children would have been studying in what would the members for Ferntree Gully and Bayswater tried to virtually have been an ongoing construction site, but seek assurances on behalf of their communities that the this government is providing the full $16 million. The $8 million the former government was trying to pretend full project, a world-class prep-to-year-12 school for would complete the full P–12 school would actually do students with autism, will be delivered. We will give so, but they never received those assurances. those families that certainty, and they will know what we are delivering. That school will be delivered by Labor did not fully plan or fully commit to that project, 2013. but the coalition is — — I thank the member for Bayswater, the member for Mr Hulls — On a point of order, Speaker, I know Ferntree Gully — — he is the new and junior Minister for Education, but my point of order is that he should be reminded about the Mr Merlino interjected. forms of the house — — The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Honourable members interjecting. Monbulk is warned.

The SPEAKER — Order! Points of order will be Mr DIXON — I thank the members for Bayswater, heard in silence. Scoresby and Ferntree Gully for their great work in standing up for students with autism, their families and Mr Hulls — The Minister for Education should be their teachers in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. warned that he is not allowed to mislead the house. Children: protection The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of order. Mr DONNELLAN (Narre Warren North) — My question is to the Minister for Community Services. Mr DIXON — It gives me great pleasure to tell the Does the minister think it is acceptable that under her house today that under this coalition government new regime of reporting and responsibility, as exposed families with children with autism living in the eastern this week, without a phone call from 3AW she would region of Melbourne will receive a fully funded and not have been aware of the category 1 case of the fully costed P–12 school. For many years families in nine-year-old boy abandoned in Coburg? the Knox region with children with autism, especially

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Ms WOOLDRIDGE (Minister for Community The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of Services) — I thank the member for his question. We order. The minister was being relevant, and she has have a very thorough process in place in relation to concluded her answer. child protection support and policy. What we are doing is making sure, first and foremost, that children are Schools: languages other than English safe. Ms RYALL (Mitcham) — My question is to the Mr Andrews interjected. Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship. Can the minister outline to the house the steps the The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the government is taking to expand the teaching of Opposition! languages other than English in Victoria?

Ms WOOLDRIDGE — Category 1 incidents are Mr KOTSIRAS (Minister for Multicultural Affairs incredibly concerning and happen at a disturbingly and Citizenship) — Grazie per questa domanda. I regular rate. We are working to reduce the abuse of would like to thank the honourable member for her children in our community and to have the policies in question: θα ήθελα να ευχαριστήσω τη συνάδελφο μου place to make sure — — για την ερώτηση που μου έκανε σήμερα.

Mr Andrews — To reduce your workload. We on this side celebrate our cultural diversity. Victoria is the multicultural capital of Australia. We are Ms WOOLDRIDGE — The Leader of the absolutely proud of our cultural diversity. Opposition seems to believe the objective should be to reduce my workload. I am talking about reducing abuse Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, I can in our community, which is something everyone in this recall very vividly the Premier making it clear at a chamber should be seeking to achieve. It is an absolute recent function that one of the great strengths of our priority, and it is what we are focused on. We need to multiculturalism was the absolute bipartisanship with make sure that children are safe. We need to make sure which it is revered and celebrated. I take great — — that the appropriate processes are in place and that we have the policies to make a difference for children who The SPEAKER — Order! What is the member’s have been abused — — point of order?

Mr Donnellan — On a point of order, Speaker, the Mr Andrews — I am making my point of order. minister does not appear to be answering the question directly. It was a simple question. The minister appears The SPEAKER — Order! What is the member’s to know nothing and is doing a great impersonation of point of order? Sergeant Schultz. This is ridiculous. Mr Andrews — I am making it. The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of The SPEAKER — Order! When the Leader of the order. Opposition gets to his feet again, he should tell us what Ms WOOLDRIDGE — For all the incident reports his point of order is. We do not want a preamble; the received by my office, every single appropriate action member will tell us what his point of order is. is taken. We need to make sure that where I need to Mr Andrews — I take great offence at the intervene, I do. Our focus is on keeping children safe, suggestion that members on this side of the house do making sure staff have been dealt with and ensuring not support multiculturalism, and I ask that that be that the investigations are taking place. Our response is withdrawn. appropriate, and we are focused on protecting vulnerable children. Dr Napthine — On the point of order — —

Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, under the Mr Andrews interjected. changes to sessional orders, answers to questions must now be relevant. The minister is not being relevant to Dr Napthine — You raised a point of order. the question that was asked. Reducing the workload on the minister should not be placing vulnerable children Honourable members interjecting. at risk, and I ask the minister to answer the question.

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The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the just a while ago, he stood up and withdrew. I ask that Opposition stood up to make a point of order. We have you ask the minister to withdraw. a countering point of order coming from the other side. Mr KOTSIRAS — On the point of order, Speaker, Dr Napthine — On the point of order, Speaker, the if the Leader of the Opposition had allowed me to Premier has made it clear that there is bipartisanship on finish, I was going to go on to talk about lucky we are multiculturalism. That view is shared by both the in Victoria that we have bipartisan support. I said that Premier and the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and we on this side support multicultural affairs. Here in Citizenship. However, what the minister actually said Victoria we are lucky, but if the Leader of the was that on this side of the house we support Opposition thinks I said something, then I withdraw. multiculturalism. He made no comment about the views of the opposition on multiculturalism. There is The SPEAKER — Order! If the minister is going to nothing to withdraw. I am sure the Minister for withdraw, it has to be a withdrawal without Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship — — qualification.

Honourable members interjecting. Mr KOTSIRAS — I withdraw.

The SPEAKER — Order! I am not sure how many As I said, one of Victoria’s strengths is that both parties times I have to say that points of order will be heard in support our cultural diversity. However, we could also silence by both sides of the house. The Minister for be the multilingual capital of Australia, and I think this Ports has been constantly shouted down while he has is where we have dropped the ball. We have the been on his feet. I will not have it. population here with the cultural knowledge of the world, a population that can and does extend a friendly Dr Napthine — To conclude my comments on the hand to the people of the world and a population that point of order, both the minister and the Premier have speaks the languages of the world. made it very clear on a number of occasions that there is bipartisanship support for multiculturalism. On this In an environment that is global in its outlook occasion the minister said this side of the house Victoria’s diversity enables us to meet the challenges supports multiculturalism. He made no comment about on our own terms. As I have said previously, our the other side of the house. What he said is absolutely cultural and linguistic diversity is our greatest asset. We correct. There is nothing to withdraw, and he should not should not only promote it but should also try to utilise be asked to withdraw. it for Victoria. It is true that languages act as a link, as a bridge, between the various communities and that Ms Barker — Further on the point of order, enables us to live in peace and harmony with each Speaker, I have been in this chamber for a long time, other. When you learn a second or third language you and on all occasions on which — — also learn about culture and traditions, and that enables you to live in peace and harmony with your neighbour. An honourable member interjected. Further, languages also provide the key to trade with and investment in other parts of the world, and this is a Ms Barker — The member opposite who just said I great opportunity for Victoria to become the language have been here too long should go and learn respect for capital of Australia. other members in this place. My point of order — — It is disappointing that in the past we have allowed this Honourable members interjecting. not to occur. We have allowed the number of students The SPEAKER — Order! Less than 2 minutes ago undertaking LOTE (languages other than English) I asked that points of order be heard in silence — in studies to drop, and we have not utilised this skill. In silence! — and that is what I want from both sides of fact the number of primary schools that offer LOTE the house. education has dropped from over 96 per cent in 1997 to under 72 per cent in 2009. The number of secondary Ms Barker — Whenever multiculturalism has been schools that offer LOTE education has dropped from referred to in this chamber, it has never been couched in over 94 per cent in 2003 to under 88 per cent in 2009. terms of one side or the other. As the Leader of the That is why we are going to refocus and strengthen Opposition said, he took offence at the inference that it language education in Victoria by making it important is only the other side of the chamber which supports and by creating one of the most diverse language multiculturalism. I also take offence at that inference. programs. It is good for the economy and it is good for When the member for Essendon was asked to withdraw

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1096 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 community harmony, but to do so we have to be very necessary wherever a response is not appropriate. The careful and we have to work together. Minister for Community Services is dealing with a very difficult situation — — We are going to start by making LOTE compulsory from prep to year 10 by 2025. But to do that we have to Mr Andrews interjected. make sure we have the appropriate number of qualified teachers to undertake the task. That is why over the The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the next four years we will be offering scholarships to Opposition is supposed to be leading by example. His make sure we have enough teachers to teach LOTE. interruptions are not leading by example. We are also going to invest about $1 million towards resources and assistance for those primary schools that Mr BAILLIEU — The opposition is keen to make do not currently offer a LOTE program to make sure some political capital out of what was an unacceptable they pick it up, and we are going to make sure the event. The problem with the thesis the opposition is programs are of a high quality. We are also going to proposing is that the response to that unacceptable work with our community language schools, because event was appropriate. they are part of the system and we should work in Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, the partnership with them to make sure that Victoria is and Premier is clearly debating the issue, and the debate is remains the cultural capital but also the multilingual not even relevant to the question. The question was capital of Australia and the Asia-Pacific region. about whether the Premier finds it acceptable for the The SPEAKER — Order! The minister’s time has minister’s office to operate in that way: where she, it expired. would seem, remains ignorant and is happily ignorant of category 1 critical incident reports unless she turns Children: protection on 3AW radio. That is what the question was about, and that is what the answer should be directed to. Mr ANDREWS (Leader of the Opposition) — My question is to the Premier, and I ask: does the Premier The SPEAKER — Order! The Premier was being think it is acceptable that if not for a phone call from the relevant to the question that was asked. producer of the Neil Mitchell program on 3AW radio, Mr BAILLIEU — What I, and indeed the people of the Minister for Community Services would never Victoria, expect from the Minister for Community under her own office protocols have been made aware Services is to ensure that the response to any of a nine-year-old boy abandoned in Coburg? Is that unacceptable event be appropriate and timely, and acceptable to the Premier? where it is not that the minister intervene in a timely Mr BAILLIEU (Premier) — I recognise the way. That is exactly what happened in this case, and the importance of this issue, and I think everyone in this Minister for Community Services has been at pains to house does. The protection of vulnerable children has to demonstrate that. be a priority, and I believe the Minister for Community Mr Andrews — On a further point of order, Services has addressed this issue on multiple occasions. Speaker, the question clearly related to whether the What is clear is that the response to what was an Premier believes these arrangements — this unacceptable event was the appropriate response. manufactured ignorance — are acceptable to him. That Mr Andrews interjected. is what the question was about. Is it acceptable to run child protection through 3AW, or does the Premier The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the think the minister ought do her job? Opposition has had his chance to ask his question. The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of Mr BAILLIEU — It is demonstrated from the facts order. that the response — — Mr Andrews interjected. Mr Andrews interjected. The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the Opposition is on his second warning. Opposition is warned. Mr BAILLIEU — I think it is becoming Mr BAILLIEU — The response to the event was increasingly clear in this chamber that the opposition is appropriate. The minister’s intervention is required and not committed to policy improvement.

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Mr Andrews — On a further point of order, QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE Speaker, the answer to this question is not an opportunity for the Premier to run a commentary on the Children: protection opposition. It is an opportunity for him to make clear once and for all whether he supports this minister Questions resumed. failing to do even the most basic tasks in the Mr BAILLIEU (Premier) — Some people in this administration of her portfolio. It has nothing to do with chamber want to make a political point. honourable members on this side of the house. Mr Andrews — On a point of order, Speaker, the The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of answer the Premier is giving is not in accordance with order. the standing orders or in accordance with the custom Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, it is a and practice of this house. The answer should be about convention of question time, and indeed it is reflected government business, it should be relevant to the in the standing and sessional orders, that question time question and it should not be about debate. The Premier is not an opportunity for the government to attack the is offending all three of those principles simultaneously. opposition. This was not a question inviting the Premier If only his minister worked as hard. to run a commentary on the opposition. It was a The SPEAKER — Order! There is no point of question about the failure of the Minister for order. Community Services to do her job, and I ask that you bring the Premier back to answering that question. Mr Andrews — Of course there is not!

The SPEAKER — Order! I am sure the Premier The SPEAKER — Order! Then the member should will return to answering the question. not have raised it.

Mr Merlino interjected. Mr BAILLIEU — The minister ensured that the system was in place. The unacceptable event was dealt The SPEAKER — Order! The member for with appropriately. Monbulk is on his second warning. The SPEAKER — Order! The Premier’s time has Mr BAILLIEU — The Minister for Community expired. Services has ensured that the response in this particular case was appropriate. Floods: government assistance Mr Merlino interjected. Mr WELLER (Rodney) — My question is to the The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Minister for Ports. Can the minister advise the house Monbulk has already had two warnings. what the Baillieu government is doing to assist local communities with improving the boating safety of Honourable members interjecting. waterways affected by this year’s devastating floods?

Questions interrupted. Dr NAPTHINE (Minister for Ports) — I thank the member for Rodney for his question and acknowledge the flood damage that has occurred in his electorate. SUSPENSION OF MEMBER Last night, along with the Deputy Premier and Damian Drum, a member for Northern Victoria Region in the Member for Monbulk Council, I met with the mayors and CEOs of Regional Cities Victoria. The leader of the group, Cr Mark Byatt, The SPEAKER — Order! Under standing mayor of the City of Wodonga, specifically thanked the order 124 I ask the member for Monbulk to vacate the Premier, the Deputy Premier and the coalition chamber for 1 hour and 30 minutes. government for their rapid and comprehensive response to recent flood events across Victoria. These floods Honourable member for Monbulk withdrew from have caused massive damage, including damage to chamber. many waterways across the state. There has been damage to navigation aids, safety signage and the dumping of huge amounts of debris throughout our rivers, streams and lakes.

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Members in this house will be aware that recreational GOVERNOR’S SPEECH boating is a very popular activity on many of these waterways. Recreational boating also brings many Address-in-reply people to these rural areas and brings very important tourist dollars to these communities. The Baillieu Debate resumed. government is therefore very keen to work with Mr BLACKWOOD (Narracan) — Prior to the waterway managers and these local communities to lunch break I was outlining some examples of just how repair the damage to the waterways caused by the committed the Baillieu government is to governing for floods and to make sure the waterways are safe for all Victorians. Government members will not just recreational boaters. Therefore I am pleased to govern from Spring Street; they will go out to the announce that a $200 000 fund will be provided by the coalface, be accessible and transparent and listen to Baillieu government to assist waterway managers to what people are dealing with right across Victoria. repair flood damage in their local waterways. What better example is there of that commitment than Today I have written to waterway managers in the announcement just made during question time by flood-affected areas advising of this new and additional the Minister for Regional and Rural Development about funding and urging them to apply for funding which $10 million being provided for the Latrobe Valley to try could be used for removing hazards for safe navigation to fast-track some projects, to try to recognise and and replacing boat safety signs. The funding can also be understand the issues and to replace the jobs that have used to replace very important navigational aids. All gone missing in recent times with the closure of the these measures are vital to safe boating activity on these Telstra call centre at Moe and other job losses in the waterways, and they are also important for repairing region. The $10 million will go a long way towards boat launching facilities and associated car-parking fast-tracking the projects outlined in the Gippsland facilities. This is another example of the Baillieu regional blueprint and towards addressing the concerns government listening to local communities and of the people of Gippsland and Latrobe Valley, who are responding positively, particularly to those currently undergoing a fairly stressful time. communities affected by the floods. The floods affected a broad range of those communities, and one of the A good example of the Baillieu government’s areas that has been affected is the tourism dollar, which commitment to all Victorians, and in particular to those creates jobs and opportunities in regional and rural in regional Victoria, is today’s announcement that staff Victoria. of the Department of Premier and Cabinet will be based in regional areas. I quote from a press release issued Having safe, open waterways is an important part of this morning: tourism in regional and rural Victoria, particularly those areas affected by the floods in Gippsland and in the Premier Ted Baillieu today announced new satellite offices of north-east and north-west of Victoria. The Baillieu the Department of Premier and Cabinet … would be government, which meets with and listens to local established in Ballarat and Bendigo from July 2011 under the communities and responds positively to their requests DPC regional program. and needs, is creating funding to assist with flood ‘The establishment of DPC offices in Ballarat and Bendigo is repairs and with business. There is now this special the first step towards fulfilling our election commitment to fund to assist waterway managers to apply for funding bring government closer to the people of regional Victoria’, to restore navigation aids, to restore boat safety signs, to Mr Baillieu said. restore boat ramps and facilities and to make those This delivers on our pledge to govern for all Victorians, waterways safe for boating in regional and rural especially families living outside Melbourne who need Victoria. government services to be delivered quickly and efficiently. Having staff from the Premier’s department stationed in This assistance will help to bring the people back to regional centres will strengthen channels to enable local spend dollars in regional and rural Victoria, to boost the people to get direct help and direct access to the Premier. vitality of those regions and to boost jobs in those regions. I am very proud to be part of the Baillieu This initial phase of the DPC regional program will operate for nine months to enable us to refine how these offices will government, which is recognised throughout regional operate before DPC regional is expanded to any further and rural Victoria as a government that is out on the locations, which we anticipate will be Geelong, Bairnsdale ground, listening to local communities and providing a and Seymour.’ positive response to the emergency caused by these … floods.

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‘Victoria’s public servants are already doing great work in the address-in-reply speeches and at other times in this regions, but we want taxpayers in these areas to get the house I have spoken of the importance of health maximum possible value for money’, Mr Baillieu said. services, and health remains an issue of extremely high DPC regional will also assist in ensuring communities can importance to my local community. While we are access the coalition government’s $1 billion Regional Growth always aware there is more to do, I am very proud of Fund … the centrepiece of the government’s regional policy the work undertaken by the previous Labor government agenda. in improving health services. I am confident that the Baillieu government will honour all its promises to Victorians and that it will govern for I particularly refer to health services in the electorate I all Victorians. I am looking forward to assisting this represent — Southern Health and Alfred Health, or government to deliver on its promises to the electorate Bayside Health. We increased the budget for Southern of Narracan. Health from $286.3 million in 1999–2000 to $698.55 million in 2009–10, and its nurse numbers Ms BARKER (Oakleigh) — I am pleased to increased by 56.2 per cent. We increased the budget for contribute to the address-in-reply to the Governor’s Alfred Health from $238.03 million in 1999–2000 to speech, which always puts forward the mandate of a $523.42 million in 2009–10, and its nurse numbers new government — in this instance the Baillieu-Ryan increased by 52.8 per cent. conservative government. I congratulate the government on its election. The great thing about our Importantly, along with the recurrent funding we society is that we have a democracy and people are able allocated to the health services that primarily service to exercise their right to vote. I also congratulate you, my area, there were massive capital works for both Speaker, and the Deputy Speaker on your appointments those important health services, and they are still to the important positions that you now hold. It is the continuing. The day centre at the Alfred hospital has right of all members of this place to put forward their been a great boost for people requiring elective surgery. views on proposed legislation and the matters that In question time today I asked the Premier again about affect the people they represent, and the work of the the much-needed children’s wing at the Clayton presiding officers in ensuring that right is fundamental campus of the Monash Medical Centre. I heard to democracy and respects the will of the people in all someone comment about the length of time it has taken electorates in choosing their members of Parliament. to get to the planning stage for the Monash children’s As you, Speaker, are aware, I was fortunate enough to centre. We committed the $250 million. I worked with hold a position as a presiding officer in the last Southern Health for a number of years to properly plan Parliament. I have to say the people of Victoria and and design the children’s wing and work out where it members of Parliament are very fortunate in that the could go. That is why: it takes time. The space at the presiding officers are supported by fantastic staff who Clayton campus is very tight, but Southern Health has have a huge amount of knowledge about standing worked out how to connect it to the hospital and in orders and all the parliamentary processes and policies. particular to the operating theatres while at the same The clerks we have in this Parliament are truly time providing a specific children section. I ask that the exceptional. I am sure they will continue doing their conservative government match the commitment of the great work and supporting you, Speaker, as well as the previous government. There is no doubt that we need Deputy Speaker, in your work. the Monash children’s centre to be built, and it needs to happen by 2014. I sincerely thank all those in the Oakleigh electorate who have continued to support my work as the member Last year when we were having a debate in this for Oakleigh. I will continue my work to represent them chamber on, I think, the appropriation bill, the figures to the best of my ability, as I have always done. All that I had been given, which were old figures that I am election campaigns are busy, and they are often tense. I sure have increased, were that the number of children also thank the many volunteers who worked very hard and babies receiving care at Monash Medical Centre both during the election campaign and on a wet and was more than 27 000 — I think it is now close to windy election day to support me and my efforts to be about 30 000 — including around 1200 premature re-elected to represent the great electorate of Oakleigh. babies. In that very rapidly growing and busy south-eastern corridor there is no doubt that we need to There are many issues of great importance to the have that children’s service. We will have the fantastic Oakleigh electorate, and I will put some of them on the new Royal Children’s Hospital, but it would be better if record today in responding to the Governor’s speech. In the people from Gippsland who go to Monash could go addressing appropriation bills, in previous to Clayton rather than into the city. The planning and

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1100 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 design work has been completed, so it can now be I ask the Minister for Education to have a look at a started and could be completed by 2014. It is one of school in my area. We have been gradually improving those things that should happen; it is a commitment that the schools in the Oakleigh electorate, and they are should be followed through. fantastic, but one school, Amsleigh Park Primary School in East Oakleigh, needs attention. Amsleigh Local accessibility to community health services has Park primary came about as an amalgamation of also been a high priority for both me and my Amstel Primary School and East Oakleigh Primary constituents. We have progressively over a number of School, when they were merged under the Kennett years developed the work on how we would relocate government on the Amsleigh Park Primary School site. the MonashLink Community Health Service into more At that time they roofed the LTC (light timber appropriate areas throughout the city of Monash, which construction) area to provide for the junior school. is quite a large council area. We had funded, I think, When I became the member for Oakleigh in 1999 it $8.1 million, which saw a co-location with the Clayton would be fair to say that most of the primary schools in community health centre and also an expansion of the my electorate had very low enrolments. The dental service in Clayton as part of the MonashLink demographics had changed and people had got older Community Health Service. I am sure the new member and moved out, so the enrolments in most local primary for Mount Waverley is pleased with the $8.6 million, schools were low, with the exception of one in although I do not speak for him of course, allocated to Murrumbeena. the Glen Waverley site. Construction on that is now under way, again in partnership with Monash council. At that time Amsleigh Park primary had very low prep enrolments and things were manageable. There were For some time we in Oakleigh have had difficulty in some problems with a leaking roof and such, but the finding a site close to the major activity centre and in Labor government provided $500 000 for some of that particular close to the rail and bus interchange area, maintenance work to be undertaken and have provided which is one of the busiest in Melbourne. The former funds since then as well. Since that time the government had budgeted for and allocated demographics in Oakleigh have changed considerably. $2.5 million to the department for this purpose. I am Younger people have moved back, and the electorate is informed that MonashLink and the department have now a family area again. That is impacting on the now found a site in Oakleigh, so I sincerely hope that numbers of enrolments in the primary school in a very that money is not taken back and that we can get those positive way for once. Over the last couple of years the services into Oakleigh and close to where they are number of grade 6 students exiting has been around a needed. third or half the enrolment number of preps. All of the schools are growing, including Amsleigh Park. The As I said, there will always be difficulties with the LTC area, which is used for the junior school, is just public health system, but I strongly defend it. It is a too small, and the previous Labor government made a hardworking, innovative and quality public service, and commitment to rebuild that great primary school. I ask we expanded it. Everybody knows you can keep the Minister for Education to look at the situation and expanding the public health service, and that needs to give that project strong consideration, because it really happen, but you cannot do it all at once. Labor put more is a very rapidly growing school. Labor made some than 10 000 more nurses and doctors into the system minor improvements, but it needs to be rebuilt. and embarked on a huge capital works program, and there were very strong increases in recurrent health I will quickly touch on another issue which is very budgets on a yearly basis. important to my electorate and which was debated quite strongly during the campaign — that is, climate change. I noted what was said about education in the I have very strong climate change groups in my Governor’s speech: electorate, and residents are constantly contacting me The government will provide the best possible education about that issue. I was heartened to read an article in the standards and facilities for all students … Age of 18 January. I note that the new Minister for Environment and Climate Change said he agreed on the I also listened to the Minister for Education this climate change issue. The article states: morning, when he rightly said the conservative government would fulfil its commitments — and I Mr Smith said there was evidence that humans were changing respect that — and when he also said the government the climate, and that the government needed to respond to the would work with those schools that were not part of science. that commitment. ‘Without doubt people are making an impact as they operate’, he said.

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‘As a whole of government we acknowledge that a [national] celebrated our 40th wedding anniversary, so we are not carbon price is going to be the way to go and it is just a matter doing too badly. Jim has been a fantastic support to me. of looking at the detail. We’ll try to be involved in that as much as possible.’ I also thank my wonderful children, Michael and Kirsty, and their partners, Jacquie and Richard. I thank Of course that is a debate that is going on federally, but them not only for supporting me but for giving me two I am pleased to see that the Minister for Environment beautiful grandchildren, Bridgette and Jasmine. and Climate Change accepts that climate change is happening. I know he does, because of the passage of Mr DELAHUNTY (Minister for Sport and the Climate Change Act 2010. I will be watching very Recreation) — I commend the member for Oakleigh carefully the work that will need to be done as a result for her presentation and the balanced way in which she of that legislation — that is, how the new government went about giving it. She gained the respect of a lot of implements adaptation plans, climate covenants, people in this place by doing it that way. regulation of greenhouse gases and, importantly, the gas emissions reduction target. In my contribution to the address-in-reply debate today I will firstly thank the people of Lowan who on Another part of that is the Climate Communities 27 November elected me to represent them. It is a program, which has been an extremely successful fantastic opportunity to represent them in the program already. Residents in my area have met with Parliament of Victoria. I would also like to thank the regional coordinators, and those people are assiduously campaign committee that worked with me. As has been working on local projects. I hope that program of said by others, it is not an easy thing to go through an applications of up to $50 000 will continue and will be election campaign. It is bit like going through a job available to communities. There is no doubt that local interview where 36 000 or 37 000 people say whether communities want to know how they can deal with or not they are going to give you your job again. climate change at a local level — how they can educate other people, how they can implement energy-saving Mr Foley — Is that all you have? ideas and how they can understand new technology. I Mr DELAHUNTY — Voters, that is. Yes, I will know it is a great program, and it should continue. come back to that. I have the biggest electorate. The I commend the Minister for Multicultural Affairs. He campaign committee headed by Greg Walcott was very said when in opposition that if elected to government he supportive of me, and I thank its members immensely would match or fulfil the commitment of cultural for the support they gave me in my campaign. I also precinct funding in Oakleigh of $1 million to the City thank my staff, Joanne Bibby, who has been with me of Monash. He has done that, and I thank him for it. since nearly day one, and Diane McGenisken, for their The work on developing Eaton Mall as a cultural untiring efforts in the electorate office. precinct is well under way. I know the minister An honourable member — They deserve a medal. recognises our rich cultural heritage in the Oakleigh area, particularly our Greek heritage. There is a huge Mr DELAHUNTY — They do deserve a medal for Greek population in Oakleigh. putting up with me. It was a great effort. I would also like to thank The Nationals staff headed up by Luke In the limited time I have left, although there is much I O’Sullivan and the coalition people for the work we did could talk about in terms of my electorate, I want to say in relation to the development of policy, and more a couple more thankyous. We all do what we do in this importantly the work that was done in developing the place because we have fantastic staff in our offices who policies that went to the election. It was a great effort by work on a daily basis with our constituents. Megan all involved. Berry has been with me for nearly nine years, and she is just fantastic. I thank Megan, Caroline, who also works I particularly want to thank the polling booth helpers. I or me, and Stephanie, who was there for a short period have 52 polling booths in my electorate, and we staffed of time in the last parliamentary term. I thank them all of them. We did not lose any booths either, by the from the bottom of my heart for the work they do not way. just to support me but for my constituents. A big effort also goes into prepolling these days. We Last, but never least, I thank my family. I am very had two prepolling stations — at Hamilton and fortunate. I do what I want to do. I am in politics, and Horsham. I would like to thank Jessica Fishburn and that takes a lot out of the day and night. I am very her supporters down at Hamilton and also John and fortunate to have the total support of my husband, Jim. Marion Seater, who for a fortnight did an enormous Speaker, you might be pleased to know that we recently amount of work in both of those prepolling booths. I do

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1102 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 not want to leave it until last, but I must also thank my size of Ireland. In fact I could fit 76 of the other great wife, Judy, for her untiring support, and my 87 electorates of members who sit in this chamber family, Jarrod, Christian and Drew and their partners. inside my electorate. It is a big electorate and a big area As the member for Oakleigh said, I have a couple of to cover. grandchildren too. They had ‘Vote for my Pa’ on their T-shirts. I needed those one or two votes to get across Not only am I the proud member for Lowan but I have the line. also been given the great honour of being sworn in as the Minister for Sport and Recreation and the Minister I will turn my attention now to the Governor’s speech. I for Veterans’ Affairs. It is also interesting to note that want to join the Premier and the Leader of the not only am I a minister but there are eight other Opposition in thanking Professor David de Kretser, ministers sitting around the cabinet table who represent AC, and his wife Jan for the work they have done in the rural and regional Victoria. We have two in the last five years. They have been pleasant people to work south-west, two in the north-west, two in the north-east with. Judy and I have also had the opportunity to meet and two in Gippsland — how is that for the distribution with them on social occasions. I wish them all the best of ministers in the Baillieu-Ryan government? in their retirement. I am sure they will enjoy their lives. They are very decent people. In the short amount of time I have remaining I would like to talk about the Lowan electorate. During the I would like to highlight a couple of things from the election campaign, when I was shadow minister for Governor’s speech. Firstly, on page 1 the Governor youth affairs, the coalition allocated money to a very said: important cause. We wanted to increase the participation of young people in our communities, and The general election on 27 November resulted in a change of that is why we supported giving money to the Western government in Victoria. District Health Service. A lot of the youth activities in I think there are some people on the other side who do the Southern Grampians area are under the auspices of not realise this. They forget that they are in opposition the Western District Health Service, which services now. He also outlined the government’s policy agenda Balmoral and many other towns. The Western District and legislative intentions for its first term. We have four Health Service will be looking forward to seeing our years to implement that agenda. Importantly, we are budget. We will deliver on all of those promises in getting on with the job of doing it. order to support the youth of the south-west.

This government’s agenda is based on the principles of Next Friday, 15 April, Wimmera Uniting Care’s responsibility, fairness and respect. I think a bit more of Wimmera Youth and Community Mobile Centre will that would not do any harm, particularly during be launched. We promised some money to this. The question time in this Parliament. I think if we had project has great support from people like Geoff respect for the Speaker and respect for each other, we Handbury and others. There will be a mobile bus that would go a long way towards doing our jobs here in will travel around to support young people right across this Parliament. the region. Young people aged between 12 and 24 comprise about 18 per cent of the Victorian population. One other thing I wish to highlight is at page 2 of the There are approximately 4500 young people aged Governor’s speech under the heading ‘Regional and between 10 and 17 and a further 1400 aged between 18 rural Victoria’ where it says: and 21 living in the Wimmera region, so it is important that we provide those types of services to our young The government will establish a $1 billion Regional Growth Fund to support regional Victoria and create new prosperity, people. more opportunities and a better quality of life. Another thing that we offered in the election campaign I know all of us on this side of the house will be was $2.5 million towards the $8 million redevelopment looking forward to working with the Minister for of the Wimmera community service centre to be built Regional and Rural Development and also other in Horsham. As we know, Wimmera Uniting Care is a ministers in implementing that very important fund that very well-regarded organisation in my area. It delivers a will support rural and regional Victoria. range of important local activities, programs and events for families in need of these types of facilities right I am the proud member for the seat of Lowan, which as across the Wimmera, including the towns of Ararat and has been highlighted is the largest electorate in this Stawell, which are in the member for Ripon’s area. house. Other members in the chamber might not realise it, but it is 34 500 square kilometres or about half the

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Another project I was pleased to be able to support in of Victorian veterans. As we know, more needs to be the lead-up to the election campaign, and I am sure it done to care for their health and wellbeing. This will be delivered very quickly, is the establishment of coalition government recognises the enormous role that men’s sheds within the Lowan electorate. There are veterans have played in safeguarding our democracy. many of them right across the electorate. Men’s sheds As the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs I am committed to are workshops where skilled or unskilled men can share passing the stories of their deeds on to the next time with each other, swap yarns and have a little bit of generation, I am committed to commemorating their fun together. They are looking for support from the sacrifices and I am committed to increasing the support government, and they will get it from this side of the for their health and wellbeing. house. We are heading towards the centenary of Anzac Day. Mr Battin — They are great for men’s mental That will be in 2014, being 100 years since the start of health. World War I. As we approach this day the Victorian coalition government will work with veterans Mr DELAHUNTY — They are good for men’s organisations and other community groups to make mental health, as the member for Gembrook says. sure there are appropriate activities in recognition of that very significant day. It was recently announced by I know the member for South-West Coast is here. He the Premier that we will continue the Anzac Day free knows the Casterton area very well. The people of bus service, which is now in its 12th year. This is Casterton are looking for support from the government, important to help ensure that veterans who have served and we promised that support to them in the lead-up to this great country of ours have the opportunity, along the election. We promised $500 000 to build a new with their community supporters, to attend this most Casterton child-care centre. That now needs support significant event. from the federal government. We will wait to see if the federal government comes to the party in relation to Only a couple of weeks ago the Premier and the that. A lot of good things are going to happen in my government announced the 10 Victorian high school electorate of Lowan. students who would be the recipients of the Spirit of Anzac prize for this year. This is a once-in-a-lifetime The other thing I want to talk about is the fact that we opportunity to walk in the footsteps of our veterans. It is need more support. The Labor government has left a very important that on 13 April the recipients will be legacy of poor roads and bridges, so I am sure that heading out to some important war sites in Turkey and councils right across my electorate will be looking northern France. They were supposed to go to Egypt, forward to the support of the promised $160 million for but as we know Egypt is not a safe place to visit at this the 40 rural councils in country Victoria. That will help stage, so in consultation with the department we have them look after their roads and bridges. Importantly we changed plans. The Spirit of Anzac prize recipients — need that support to also come from the federal and I was there to see them receiving their prizes — are government. an inspiration. I have had many opportunities to meet There are 52 schools in the Lowan electorate, and a these young people. They will have the opportunity to couple of them still need work to be done. Obviously walk with the veterans. It is important for them to see there are good things happening in those schools, with the sacrifice that was made, particularly at the world the support of teachers, staff and families, but we need war sites. to upgrade some of their facilities, particularly at Recently I attended the opening of first stage of the new Horsham Special School and Horsham College, which, Vietnam Veterans Commemorative Walk in Seymour. along with Baimbridge College in Hamilton, need a lot The member for Seymour, who is right behind me here, more work done. I have had conversations with the the state president of the RSL, Major-General David Minister for Education, who is well aware of the McLaughlan, and I opened the first stage of the walk. challenges there. We have budget commitments and This is an amazing community project that pays tribute election commitments, but importantly those schools to the more than 60 000 men and women who served in will be worked on during the next four years of our the longest war in which Australia has been involved. government. The coalition government has also committed I want talk about the portfolios for which I have $1.2 million to complete the second stage of this responsibility. The veterans affairs unit is a positive important memorial. step that was implemented by the previous government. I now turn to the sport and recreation portfolio. Many We on this side want to honour the sacrifice and service members of this house know the value of sporting

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1104 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 achievement. We rate it very highly, and we value the In finishing, I will say there are many things we have opportunity for people to participate in sporting done in relation to sport and recreation. We have activities. We know that sport builds strong and healthy supported the redevelopment of the tennis centre. We communities, and from my role in VicHealth I also have allocated money for national and international appreciate the fact that sport gives people a great athletic meets to be held here. Importantly, we are also opportunity to make some good friends — and some helping to secure the future of the Stawell Gift — in tough enemies, particularly those Collingwood blokes. Stawell. I am sure I will be up there on Easter Tuesday We are coming up to Anzac Day, and one thing the this year to hand over some more money to help that Essendon blokes have to do is beat Collingwood on event. There are a lot of things happening. Good things Anzac Day. It is like winning a premiership on Anzac are being initiated from this side of the chamber. Day. Mr FOLEY (Albert Park) — I too rise to make a Mr Foley — Any day is a good day to beat few brief comments on the address-in-reply to the Collingwood! Governor’s speech. Before the minister at the table, the Minister for Sport and Recreation, who is also the Mr DELAHUNTY — Any day is a good day to Minister for Veterans’ Affairs, departs the chamber beat Collingwood! That’s right! there are two items I will bring to his attention relating to some local matters. One of them he shares Sport is not only good for your physical and mental responsibility for with the Minister for Major Projects, health; it also allows you to meet a lot of people and who is also in the house now. I ask the minister to make a lot of friends. Encouraging physical activity ensure that the state’s sports centre at South Melbourne, helps address many of the lifestyle-related diseases that the $52 million redevelopment of which will conclude are becoming more prevalent in our society today. The shortly, in keeping with the very themes the minister latest research shows that activity rates are decreasing spoke of — more sport, more action, and sooner — is and that there are rising levels of obesity, which is of made available to the South Melbourne District Sports great concern to me as minister and to this government. Club’s Little Athletics group on a Sunday morning. At Recent findings by Cancer Council Australia and the the moment its 400 metre track is only 300 metres, so Heart Foundation show that a quarter of young that makes it a little bit difficult for those aspiring Australians are overweight or obese, and reportedly athletes. That is a project that the Minister for Sport and 85 per cent are not doing enough exercise. My focus as Recreation shares with his colleague the Minister for the Minister for Sport and Recreation is to see more Major Projects. people being more active more often. It is good for our communities, and it is good for the health and The other item I raise whilst we still have the minister wellbeing of people across the state. in the chamber relates to his veterans affairs portfolio, and that is the looming 70th anniversaries of the battles Along with the Premier we are very keen on sport — of Crete and of Greece, which cemented the not only grassroots sport but also the peak level. I was relationship between the Greek people and the disappointed that the previous government reduced the Australian people in a very real and tangible way. I emphasis on physical activity, particularly in schools. I know that the minister is sympathetic and it would think members opposite recognise now that there was a assist the Hellenic RSL, which operates out of my failure to make sporting facilities in schools and tertiary electorate, immensely if the minister’s department institutions more accessible to the broader community. could reconsider its position on providing some form of There are many things the government has done. I do assistance to the Hellenic RSL — which is totally run not have time to go through them all. Since I have been by volunteers, as are most RSL branches — to appointed as minister I have met with stakeholders and participate in the formal celebrations being held in both I have visited flood-affected areas right across the state, Crete and Greece in May. I thank the minister for his particularly places such as Castlemaine, Newbridge, indulgence on those matters. Carisbrook and Charlton, which have been devastated. Of course the address-in-reply at the start of the Ms Edwards — Newstead. Parliament is an opportunity for members to do a few things. It is an opportunity for members to paint a Mr DELAHUNTY — Newstead, sorry. There has picture of their hopes and aspirations both for their own been enormous damage to those areas, and I know there communities and for the state broadly. It is also a is a lot of work going on to help the people there get chance to look at the issues and difficulties that lie their facilities back in order. ahead in relation to those hopes and aspirations. It is also a time to focus on the many differences between

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1105 the government and opposition parties in terms of how opportunity to paint, I think the progress they would each of us seeks to go about delivering on those hopes like to see from this government and this state over the and aspirations. For government members, with the next four years is very much around the themes of government controlling the public service, it is about continuing to build a fairer, a more just and a more how they will implement their policies. For opposition sustainable place in this thriving state, and to build a members it is about seeking to hold the government to better, indeed a greater, community for us all. account and pursuing the interests of their communities and the interests of those they represent across Victoria. Before it got its spin machine working the incoming government acknowledged in the public domain that it It is also an opportunity to recognise those people and had inherited a strong economy with record job growth. groups who have worked hard to assist us in getting to It knows the state has a diverse economic base that is this place and to recognise the efforts of others. I too strong, well regulated and competitive. It knows that it congratulate the presiding officers on their appointment has communities that are tolerant, diverse and strong, to the important positions of Speaker and Deputy and that it can deliver better and greater social Speaker, and I wish all those new members who have outcomes for all of our people into the future. That is entered this Parliament well. I particularly note the not to say that things are perfect. Before its spin powerful inaugural contributions made by the members machine went into overdrive the government, from the for Brunswick, Ballarat East, Bendigo West, Ivanhoe, Premier downwards, did acknowledge that on a number Broadmeadows, Thomastown and Keilor, which were of occasions. in many cases quite moving addresses. I also acknowledge and wish new members on the other side Of course there are themes in that picture of continuing well — at least for four years, perhaps not for much to build on those real strengths: ensuring that our longer! community sets higher and better standards for diversity, tolerance and inclusion and builds on our It is also an opportunity for me to thank those people thriving cultural and arts scenes, that we set even higher who assisted the ALP state election campaign benchmarks for other jurisdictions in this country and committee in Albert Park in getting me re-elected. I ensure that we not only remain the best state in the acknowledge the part they played in assisting me to federation of the Commonwealth of Australia but that have the honour of representing the district of Albert we build an even greater lead in that. It now falls to the Park for the next four years. I would like to particularly government benches to deliver on that and it falls to this acknowledge the efforts of the campaign director, John side of the house to make sure that the government is Lewis, and his campaign team and the members of the held to account in ensuring that occurs. five different branches — — The vibrant electorate of Albert Park is a great place in Dr Napthine — Will you thank the Greens for which to live and a great place to represent. It keeps me getting you across the line? very busy. It might not be as large as the electorate of the member for Lowan, but it certainly has a few more Mr FOLEY — I got preferences from the Sex people and it is incredibly challenging. It has a high Party, followed by preferences from the Greens party, level of demand and a high level of needs, as I would followed by preferences from an Independent suspect is the case in every other community around the successfully put me into the position of being elected. I state. Some of the themes on which it is my intention to thank the Minister for Ports for that interjection. hold the government to account include the continued need for ongoing investment in public education in the Over and above the assistance from the ALP local community. The Port Melbourne Primary School has campaign structures and the five local branches, I recently been completely rebuilt. We have seen it grow acknowledge the support of family and friends. I from a population of 120 kids to over 480, with acknowledge the efforts and support of my wife, projections that that will rise to 650 kids. There is an Sharon, and my two children. I recognise that they have ongoing need for investment at that school and we will had to put up with a husband and father who is be continuing to call on the Minister for Education to involved in politics, which means he is regularly not ensure it gets a new campus. I understand that minister there for important events in their lives. I hope they will is currently considering commissioning a report on that continue to show me that indulgence for the next four proposal, for which we have put in an FOI request. We years and hopefully beyond. have the support of both the Port Phillip City Council In terms of the picture of hopes and aspirations of the and the Melbourne City Council in that regard. people of Albert Park that this speech provides the

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We have had record investment in police powers, Another longstanding personal interest of mine is the numbers and presence throughout the district of Albert improvement of aged-care facilities. An arrangement Park, and that was particularly needed in the has been made with the Minister for Health, who is also entertainment precincts of both Southbank and Fitzroy the Minister for Ageing, to ensure that an initiative of Street in St Kilda. In the figures that came out last year, the former government, the Land Bank program at the well before the election and the hysterical response of Cecil Street site in South Melbourne, is finalised in the those who are now in government, we had seen a very near future. The program will deliver a significant reduction in crimes against the person in not-for-profit aged-care facility for both the high and those precincts and indeed a substantial reduction in low-care needs of the rapidly ageing population in the crime overall in the district of Albert Park. electoral district of Albert Park and beyond. I have received advice from parties involved in that program The district of Albert Park is particularly blessed in who have indicated that it has been put on hold while being the centre of the state’s arts and cultural precinct, the government considers its position in regard to the not only in the formal area of the Southbank arts budgetary commitment. It would be a very precinct, with the thriving range of educational, disappointing and sad outcome if the government does development and performance spaces, organisations not deliver on the last stages of the partnership for that and companies there, but also in the vast range of much-needed not-for-profit aged-care facility in South galleries, theatres and community arts events, all of Melbourne. which thrive around the innovation and creative class areas that create so much employment and vibrancy, In regard to a number of other areas in health, whether not just in the district of Albert Park but in the whole it is ambulance services and the commitments the state. It will be a big challenge to ensure that the government has made to improving them, by paying interests of that precinct are taken into account and professional rates to the staff of those services, promoted by the Premier, as the Minister for the Arts. implementing new facilities in both metropolitan and regional Victoria or dealing with issues like the At the other end of my electorate is Elwood College. In ramping up of the service and a whole range of other its election campaign the former government made a challenges, there will certainly be a role for this side of commitment to take the college to the next stage of the house to keep the government honest on that redevelopment on top of its current redevelopment account. Rather than just looking at what I think is program that has been organised through the Building about a 7 per cent per annum growth rate in ambulance the Education Revolution arrangements. I intend to services is the bigger picture of the issue of how ensure that the government honours its commitment primary health care and community health services are under the state schools program to fund that delivered. redevelopment between now and the end of its term. Of equal importance is the MacRobertson Girls High At the moment the government is at a very interesting School, which needs a year 11 and 12 dedicated senior and challenging point as to how it will go about girls campus building. That will well and truly be on partnering with the commonwealth through the Council my own agenda and that of the well-organised school of Australian Governments’ process of implementing community at MacRobertson Girls High School. the Medicare Locals; the reforms in community and primary health; dealing with issues of mental health We know about this government’s pork-barrelling reform; the challenges of an ageing community, where approach to funding all of these areas. We have heard we see chronic illness growing at an enormous rate; the members opposite line up to say with great confidence demands of technology; and an overemphasis on the that various projects will be funded in their electorate. tertiary health part of the health sector, which is a At the same time, despite their spin, ministers do in fact particularly important area requiring reform. This is know that they have to govern for the whole state and it both expensive and critical, and the opportunities for will be our job on this side of the house to make sure pork-barrelling by the government are real. It will be that the many projects that we have outlined will be our intention on this side of the house to make sure that done on merit, whatever we hear through leaks or FOI the government deals with those issues in a serious and requests, and whatever the ministers’ departments are appropriate public policy manner. advising them on. It will be our job to ensure that merit-based arrangements will drive public policy, not Mr WAKELING (Ferntree Gully) — It gives me the narrow sectoral interests of the conservative pleasure to speak on the motion to adopt the coalition partners. address-in-reply to the Governor’s speech. I say at the outset that it is with great pleasure that I stand here as a re-elected member of the seat of Ferntree Gully. In

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2006 I had the fortune of being elected to this house by government just took a lane of Stud Road — overnight, a majority of just 27 votes. Anyone who has gone without any consultation with anyone in my through that process would know it is certainly a community — and converted it into a bus lane. The harrowing time. I can proudly say that I stand in this member for Scoresby and I both stood up for our place after the 2010 election having received one of the community and said that the community wanted the largest swings towards the Liberal Party: just under section of the Stud Road bus lane between Ferntree 12 per cent. I am humbled by the fact that the residents Gully Road and Kelletts Road to be removed. And that of the electorate of Ferntree Gully put their faith in me is exactly what has happened under this government. to be their representative in this house again. You can drive along that section of road now because that bus lane has been removed. We said we would do We all take our roles as members of Parliament it, and we have delivered on that promise. seriously. Whilst I am a proud member of the Liberal Party, I am first and foremost a proud representative of Another project that is small but is another example of my community. I continue to advocate for my how out of touch the former government was is the community to ensure that we get a better deal in terms creation of a keep-clear zone at the intersection of of services and infrastructure. Lakesfield Drive and Napoleon Road in Lysterfield. In effect it involved just painting a section of road. I stood My community was greatly concerned about the lack of up in this house in 2007 and asked the former minister services and infrastructure afforded to it by the former to deal with this issue by painting the section of the government. Despite promises that were made over road to indicate that it was a keep-clear zone. I did not many years, a number of the former government’s ask for any infrastructure, but still it was too hard. We commitments never materialised. We held the former presented a petition in which hundreds of people in government to account. At the 2010 election there was Lysterfield asked for the keep-clear zone — but no, it a stark contrast between what the Liberal Party was was still too hard. Funnily enough, after the change of offering to the people of Ferntree Gully and what the government VicRoads got out there overnight with the Labor Party was offering them. There is no better paint and created the keep-clear zone. This again example of this than the issue of the Rowville rail demonstrates how out of touch the former government feasibility study. The Labor Party promised that to my was. community in 1999 only to squib out of it and stop delivering on that commitment over an 11-year period We heard in this house today how the former of government. That became a lightning rod for my government made a meal of the autism school at the community, demonstrating how out of touch the former former Ferntree Gully Secondary College site. The government was in responding to the needs of the Knox former government put politics before people. It did not community. tell the truth; it did not tell the community that when it gave the $8 million funding commitment in the May While in opposition we committed that if we were 2010 budget it was not going to deliver a P–12 school, elected, we would fund the Rowville rail feasibility as the community thought. The $8 million was actually study, I stand in this house and proudly say that after going to provide for just prep, grade 1 and grade 2 the 11 years of inaction of the former government the classes. You cannot educate year 12 students in a coalition has commenced the Rowville rail feasibility facility that has been constructed for just prep, grade 1 study within the 100-day time frame that was and grade 2 students. established as part of our election commitment. That study will explore options for creating a rail line Throughout our time in opposition we asked the extending from Huntingdale station to Rowville, near government this one question: what will the $8 million the Stud Park shopping centre. I am pleased to stand actually provide? If it was going to provide for a prep, here and say that the Treasurer, the member for grade 1 and grade 2 facility, you would have thought Scoresby, has been a strong advocate with me on this that the minister at the time, the member for issue. Funnily enough, the future line runs through the Melbourne, would have articulated that to my electorate of the Leader of the Opposition, but he has community. But, no, that never happened. It was not been quiet on the issue. It is now the government that is until the change of government, when we got the having to stand up for the people of Mulgrave. It is information from the now Minister for Education, that standing up for their interests to see that they get a we understood what was going to be delivered was in better deal. fact a facility that would educate children in only prep, grade 1 and grade 2. Another initiative we stood up for was the creation of bus lanes on Stud Road in Rowville. The former

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1108 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011

These children were being left hanging in the breeze. Bayswater, will receive new traffic lights. We had The community wanted a facility that provided a called on the former government to install traffic lights P–12 education specifically for children with autism. It at that dangerous intersection, but it refused to take called upon us to take action, and that is exactly what action. It refused to listen, regardless of the number of we did. The incoming government saw that this was an people who signed a petition calling for that occur. The issue affecting real people, and we went out there and former government was not willing to listen, but we fixed that problem. I am pleased that the Minister for stepped up to the plate and that will now happen. Education recently came out and told the residents of Knox that the autism school would be delivered. I am very pleased to see that there will be a $300 000 environmental contribution, which includes $50 000 to There was a range of initiatives that the coalition upgrade Blind Creek in Ferntree Gully, and there is also opposition committed to acting on if it were elected. a $200 000 investment to help Knox City Council with We committed to providing significant funding for four the project at the former CSR quarry. That is going to primary schools in Ferntree Gully, and Wattle View be a significant feature for people in the Ferntree Gully Primary School, Fairhills Primary School, Mountain electorate. Gate Primary School and Ferntree Gully North Primary School have all shared in a $15 million funding In the area of health, the former government was not contribution to rebuild those schools. Ferntree Gully willing to look at Knox Community Health Service. It North Primary School has not been touched in terms of was not willing to stand up and look at the future of that having its existing infrastructure improved since the site. We said that we would, and we are going to fund a 1950s. It is appalling that that is what happened for master plan that will look at developing a structure to 11 years under the former government. articulate the future delivery of services at that important piece of health infrastructure. The member for Niddrie said his party had education as its no. 1 priority. I ask the member for Niddrie to go I am very proud of our party’s commitment to upgrade and talk to the parents at Ferntree Gully North Primary local sporting facilities. In two parks we will be School, Wattle View Primary School, Fairhills Primary providing $1.5 million to upgrade nine sporting School and Mountain Gate Primary School and say, facilities with warm season grass and stormwater ‘Education was our no. 1 priority, but sorry, we actually harvesting. I remember a shameful contribution in this forgot you’, because that is exactly what the former house by the former Premier when he was asked by the government did. We have said that we will provide now Deputy Premier if he would look at the harvesting $15 million in funding over four years on top of the of stormwater and the former Premier thought it was a autism spectrum disorder school; that is a $23 million joke. He said the harvesting of stormwater is ridiculous. funding commitment for schools in Ferntree Gully. It is The City of Knox is doing it already. It captures the biggest investment by a state government in many stormwater out of the drains, treats it on site and uses it years, and it took a coalition government to do that. to water the ovals. It is not using any potable water; it is recycling water on site. At existing facilities there are We said we would act to try to find a new home for the 500 000-litre tanks in place, and the council is watering Rowville Country Fire Authority (CFA) brigade. The our ovals without reliance on potable water. The former brigade does a fantastic job, but it has outgrown its government said it was a joke; we know it is not a joke, location. We have already started the process and and we are investing to upgrade nine facilities. engaged with the CFA both locally and through CFA management to identify a new home for this brigade. In addition to that, those nine facilities will receive a The difference between our side of politics and the shared contribution of $250 000 to upgrade important former government is that we believe volunteers are facilities, whether it be for new verandas, for upgrading important. Given that we now have the charter in kitchens or for helping with a range of services. That legislation, we mandated that any discussion about has been warmly received by my community, and those finding a new home for the Rowville CFA had to important football and cricket clubs knew that it was involve the local brigade as part of that consideration. It only going to be a coalition government that would is not going to be done by senior management telling provide that level of contribution. the local brigade where it should be located; the local brigade, with their local volunteers, will be part of the Another small example is the Manna Gum Road bus process the whole way through. stop, which does not have disabled access. One of the first contributions I made in this house was to call upon The Tormore–Boronia roads intersection, which is in the former member for Thomastown when he was both my electorate and that of the member for Minister for Transport to ask if he could upgrade that

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1109 facility to make sure that it was compliant with the and say that within four months as a new government federal Disability Discrimination Act 1992. He sat in this government has delivered services and that chair, laughed and said, ‘Is that the best you can infrastructure that the former government was not come up with in this house?’. I can say one thing: that prepared to act on. There is so much more that we are was certainly no laughing matter to my constituents and going to do for my community, and I am looking to residents who are disabled, who knew that the former forward to working with my community to ensure that government was not willing to upgrade that facility. We in the future the people of Knox will receive the best said we would do it, we are getting on with the job and services possible. it will be done. Business interrupted pursuant to sessional orders. The Wellington Road school crossing upgrade is going to occur. We will review the application of the 10/30 right in Knox, as we said we would, and we are also ADJOURNMENT going to provide the Sant Nirankari Mission, Rowville — a fantastic Indian community — with a The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The question is: $150 000 contribution to upgrade its facilities, and I That the house do now adjourn. thank the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship for his work in that regard. Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne North: duplication Finally, I thank my family — my wife, Levili, and my three children, Thomas, Emily and Grace — for their Ms GRALEY (Narre Warren South) — The matter patience. Like all members with families, and I raise tonight is for the attention of the Minister for particularly young families, I know how difficult it is, Roads, and it concerns funding for the duplication of and I thank my family for their help and support. Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road. The action I seek is that the minister ensure that funding for Narre I thank Graeme and Maureen McEwin, particularly Warren-Cranbourne Road is included in the state Graeme, who has been unrelenting in his leadership of budget this year. the Liberal Party at a state and federal level. He has supported the election to this house not only of me but This week I have submitted to the house a petition with also of the former member for Knox, Hurtle Lupton, 934 signatures. The petitioners have urged the Baillieu and he was also responsible for the election of Peter government to provide the funding needed to upgrade Nugent, Chris Pearce and Alan Tudge to federal the Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road. The petitioners Parliament. I thank him for his dedication. use this road on a daily basis. They have to deal with frustrating delays on the road when they would much I acknowledge the support of Craig Heron, former rather be spending time with their families. Narre member Hurtle Lupton, Dawn Keast, David Jancik, Warren-Cranbourne Road is a major thoroughfare that Fred and Lois Stephenson, Andrew Blake and Debbie motorists use to get from Thompsons Road to the Field for their wonderful work. Princes Highway and Monash Freeway. It is also used by local residents to get to schools and shops. From To all those volunteers who were out there in shopping Pound Road to Thompsons Road there is only a single centres, doorknocking and letterboxing, I say thank you lane in each direction. very much. You worked tirelessly at the early voting centres. To everyone who worked on election day and A local Narre Warren South resident, Donald Hodgson, to the hundreds of residents who turned up on election is reported as saying, ‘Sometimes it can take up to day I say thank you all for that. I pay tribute to my 15 minutes to turn right into the road from my street, fantastic staff, Louise Daniel, the backbone of the which is ridiculous’. This traffic congestion that office, and also Emily Kavouras, and I thank them for Mr Hodgson and others experience is only going to get their help and support. worse with the major expansion of the Casey Central shopping centre, which is a project that I and my It was a fantastic victory. I was humbled at the support I community very much support. received. What the community overwhelmingly told me was that they were sick of being treated as Since the petition began I have received a letter from second-class citizens by a government that did not care. local resident Danny Milo, who said: The community wanted a government that would listen and deliver services and infrastructure. I am proud to be The upgrade proposal of Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road to able to stand here today and put my hand on my heart two lanes each way between Pound Road and Thompsons

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1110 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011

Road is the most sensible and important one I have heard of Minister for Environment and Climate Change. The since my residency began in the area in 2004. action I seek is for the minister to intervene to The duplication of the Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road determine if the Patterson River Launching Way is Casey Council’s highest priority for a main road facility can remain a manned facility. Lynette and duplication and upgrade. In fact the immediate past Trevor Hogan have operated the Launching Way boat mayor, who is now the Liberal member for Mordialloc, ramp facility for 16 years and are well respected by the issued a media release last year in which she stated: fishing and boating community not only in the Carrum electorate but right across the state — by people who Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road has failed to keep pace with recognise their knowledge and assistance. adjoining land development, which is increasing pressure on this road. As Cranbourne North and Cranbourne East are both The Patterson River Launching Way is Victoria’s high growth areas, without intervention by VicRoads this busiest boat launching facility, with over 52 000 boat situation will only get worse. launches a year, providing Melburnians with access to She also said: the bay for fishing and recreation. The Hogans ensure that the Launching Way facility runs smoothly. They VicRoads needs to act now to develop this infrastructure. operate ticket sales and a tackle shop and give a lot of weather and boating advice. They have been first on I also recall that when the now member for Mordialloc site on such occasions as cars accidentally driving into stood for the seat while she was also mayor of Casey the water and boating accidents and mishaps. This she promised that she would represent Casey’s interests would not have been possible were the facility not through her office in Cheltenham. This is what she told manned. They also work closely with the coastguard the Berwick Leader: and are heavily involved with Mates Day on the Bay, If I’m elected to state Parliament … I will be able to lobby for Australia’s biggest fishing day for people with Casey and I will not forget their needs. disabilities.

I hope she takes this opportunity to lobby for Casey The Hogans managed to extend their lease for two residents and that this is not just a case of the empress years in 2009 as a result of mediation. That extended having no clothes. I encourage her to live up to the lease expires in October 2011. The Hogans have gone expectations she has set and lobby her colleagues in the through mediation and court already but could not Baillieu government to provide the much-needed funds afford Supreme Court costs. Before the resolution was in the budget. I have been campaigning for this upgrade reached in 2009, eight pages of an online forum at ever since I became the member for Narre Warren www.fishnet.com.au were dedicated to supporting the South. Before the last election Labor promised Hogans. The fear of VRFish and users of this facility is $48 million to duplicate the Narre Warren-Cranbourne that Parks Victoria will replace the currently manned Road, and it is most unfortunate this commitment was facility with a ticket machine and boom gate. To this not matched by the Liberal Party. date no tender documents for the lease of the facility have been released. The executive officer of VRFish is The residents of my electorate need the Baillieu very concerned about this and is willing to be quoted as government to take action just as the Brumby saying so. government did in spending over half a billion dollars on roads in Casey during our time in office. As Danny The action I seek is for the minister to intervene to Milo said: determine if the Patterson River Launching Way can remain a manned facility and to give due consideration No disrespect to anyone involved with this proposal, but I hope common sense prevails. to the Hogans’ reputation within the fishing and boating community and their tenure as long-term tenants of the I call on the Minister for Roads to ensure that funding facility should applications for new tenants be sought. for the duplication of Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road is — — Portarlington Primary School: redevelopment

The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The Ms NEVILLE (Bellarine) — The issue I raise is for member’s time has expired. the attention of the Minister for Education. The action I seek is for the minister to commit to the redevelopment Patterson River: boating facility of the Portarlington Primary School and to enable the school as a matter of priority to proceed to schematic Mrs BAUER (Carrum) — The adjournment matter design. In December 2009 the commencement by I wish to raise this afternoon is for the attention of the Portarlington Primary School of a master planning

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1111 process was approved. As a result of this work, at the Rail: Southland station last election the Brumby government announced that there would be a $6 million redevelopment of the Ms MILLER (Bentleigh) — My matter is for the school if the government were re-elected. This funding Minister for Public Transport. During the election would have transformed the school, enabling the campaign I made a commitment to my electorate of building of seven new classrooms and the major Bentleigh to see a railway station built at Southland refurbishment of the heritage building. shopping centre. This is a piece of infrastructure that is long overdue, which is symbolic of the previous Labor At the time of the announcement the principal government’s inability to provide for our growing commented: community. I ask the minister to provide an update on this commitment and on when my electorate can expect It’s really exciting. I nearly fell over … It is a fabulous old building but it does need renovating inside. construction of this railway station to commence. This school caters to 150 children. It was first built in For 11 long years the previous government watched 1882. Over the decades since, the school has been Melbourne grow around it but refused to build the added to, and as the principal said: community services our city needed. It issued press releases and made flimsy commitments, but it simply There’s a bit of every single era at the school, so the funding did not deliver. That is the case with so many Labor will give us a chance to create a much more 21st century promises. The voters of my electorate responded to this learning environment. coalition commitment, which will dramatically improve As I said, the school has completed its master plan and access to the shopping centre not only for my has sought to proceed to schematic design, which is constituents but for the growing population of the only possible with approval of the minister, who must region. give an indication that funding will be provided. Of course without schematic design the school has no Southland shopping centre, in the electorate of my chance of funding. Unfortunately, to the friend the member for Sandringham, is a major retail disappointment of the school community, the school precinct for the southern suburbs, and according to its was told by the department last week it did not have website it receives approximately 16 million visits a approval to do schematic design and that it would — year. It is clear that a railway station is required at this and I am quoting the school — be quite a while. centre to ease traffic congestion, encourage public transport use and most importantly improve Rightly the school is devastated by this news. It is accessibility for the many elderly in the region as well critical that this school be upgraded, which is why we as those who do not have access to a car. committed to the funding before the last election. Of course Portarlington Primary School did not make the I am proud to be a member of a government that is list of election commitments of the new government. committed to solving the problems that Labor left The Liberal Party was not interested; as we have seen behind and a government that is committed to in the list of its commitments, that list was not about implementing the promises and policies that brought us supporting schools that were ready to go and that had into office at the November election. I look forward to already been through independent assessments and working with the minister to provide this facility to the assessed as requiring funding. Rather it is a list of region, and I look forward to continued improvements schools that had been politically determined and that to the public transport system. had more to do with the seats the Liberals wanted to In summary, I reiterate the importance of having this win than any commitment to proper processes. railway station at Southland shopping centre. It has The community of Portarlington, the families and the been required for quite some time. It could be utilised children deserve improved school facilities. They by the young people of my electorate and neighbouring deserve it not on some political grounds but because electorates, by middle-aged people and by the elderly, they have been independently assessed as requiring particularly those who do not have a car and who are upgrades and they have done all the hard work. I ask desperate to use public transport. This station will be a the minister to indicate his commitment to funding the real option for them. I ask the Minister for Public upgrade of the Portarlington Primary School and to Transport to update us on when we can expect the direct his department to grant permission for the school delivery of that railway station, and I look forward to to commence schematic design. The community of hearing from him. Portarlington deserves nothing less.

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1112 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011

Schools: Port Melbourne in place. The upcoming budget is the perfect opportunity for the minister to ensure that happens. Mr FOLEY (Albert Park) — The matter I wish to raise is for the attention of the Minister for Education. Port Melbourne Primary School does not necessarily The action I seek from the minister is that his want to take up the minister’s gratuitous offer of more government undertake to address the boom in inner city portables; it is not acceptable to the school community. primary school enrolments by funding and delivering a The Port Melbourne school community cannot wait for new primary school campus in Port Melbourne. I do so the minister’s processes to continue ad infinitum. It is because the minister is currently considering a report on ready to judge this minister by his actions in the the matter prepared for him by his department. looming budget. This fantastic school continues to grow, and the time for excuses from this government is The minister is also aware of this because he received a running out. letter dated 16 February from me following his gagging of his department in a meeting with me as the local Seymour District Memorial Hospital: member. It is a letter that he, as a member of this management ‘transparent and accountable’ government, is yet to respond to. He also received a letter from the Port Ms McLEISH (Seymour) — I make a request for Melbourne Primary School council earlier in the year the Minister for Health to take action regarding the which he did respond to — and can I say, it was not a management of the Seymour District Memorial very favourable response. Hospital. Local hospitals are at the heart of rural communities, and this is particularly true in the town of I seek this action from the minister because according Seymour. Communities need to feel a sense of pride in to local media reports he is considering a report that their local hospital, and it is often at the centre of how a was commenced by the previous Labor government on community thinks and feels about itself. I believe this issue. It pays to pause and reflect on how the communities deserve safe, effective and professional community got into this position. Largely it is the folly services that are available when they are needed most. of decisions taken in the 1990s to close three Rural communities rely on their local hospitals not only neighbouring inner south primary schools. for medical services but also often for aged and primary health-care services as well. Local hospitals are also the As the minister made clear in his recent letter to the major employer in many local communities, and it Port Melbourne Primary School council, he knows follows that communities must be confident in the enrolments are increasing rapidly in the inner south, services such hospitals provide. particularly in Southbank and Port Melbourne. This particular school has grown from having 122 students a I am pleased to note that in Seymour the town’s few years ago to now looking at current enrolments of hospital is now in a better financial position than it has 430 students, and it is projected to go to 650 students. been. However, since the election many constituents — That same letter from the minister makes clear his town residents, staff and volunteers — have appreciation that it was Labor that had spent over consistently raised concerns about the management of $6.5 million on completely rebuilding the school to the Seymour District Memorial Hospital. The regularity meet recent growth. He also goes on to acknowledge and nature of these concerns have led me to become the increasing numbers, the academic achievements of increasingly convinced that there needs to be close the school and its great community engagement. scrutiny of the governance and management arrangements of the hospital. However, as the school council made clear, the government needs to do more. It needs to match the It is important to my local community that its concerns commitment made by the former government to be addressed so that the community and the health commission and fund the study provided for in the service can move forward with confidence. In speaking 2011 budget to search for a new campus for the Port with members of the community I have been informed Melbourne school. This is not an easy task, because that in recent months reviews of the governance, they stopped making new land in Port Melbourne a management and operations of the Seymour District very long time ago. If the government intends to Memorial Hospital have been undertaken. It seems that establish its inner urban growth corridor in the these reviews are clear evidence that there need to be neighbouring area of Fishermans Bend, as announced real changes in approach by the leadership of this health by the Minister for Planning, it needs to ensure that the service. social infrastructure, such as this expanded primary school, is delivered before those arrangements are put

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1113

Therefore I ask the Minister for Health to take actions Gembrook electorate: sports facilities which will support the findings of the recent reviews of the Seymour District Memorial Hospital to address Mr BATTIN (Gembrook) — I wish to raise a community concerns regarding the management of this matter of importance with the Minister for Sport and organisation. Recreation. I call on the minister to visit the electorate of Gembrook to update the community on the progress Eltham High School: funding of the commitments made during the election campaign. Gembrook is a large and varied electorate, Mr HERBERT (Eltham) — I wish to raise an issue but each of its communities has something in common: for the attention of the Minister for Education. The a love of sport. From the small tourist communities in action I seek is that the minister provide an immediate the north to the rapidly growing suburbs of the south, commitment that Eltham High School will receive the the football, cricket and netball clubs are often the glue full $9 million allocated to it to fully complete the that binds the community together. school redevelopment project that is currently in progress. Gembrook is also home to robust tennis, baseball, soccer and basketball clubs, pony clubs, swimming Funding for this important project was included in the pools, golf clubs, a bowls club and of course dance 2009–10 budget. During the course of detailed planning studios. Pakenham also hosts the relatively new sport of for the project the Department of Education and Early floorball, with many members of our national team Childhood Development was concerned that the costs living in and around the electorate. would exceed the $9 million allocated in the budget and insisted that the school substantially reduce the scope of During the 2010 election campaign the coalition made a the project. When it went to tender quite late last year it number of important commitments to improve and came in substantially under budget, and consequently support some of the sports clubs in the Gembrook the school sought to include about $1 million worth of electorate. I am extremely grateful for the coalition’s deleted items back into the scope of construction, which commitment to local grassroots sport, and I am proud is a more than reasonable proposition given that for of the benefits that improvements to facilities will over one year the department insisted that the school provide to the junior and senior sportspeople of my had a fixed amount of $9 million, which was in the electorate. I ask the minister to come to Gembrook to budget papers — not one penny more nor one penny confirm both his and the government’s commitment to less. sports clubs and facilities there. I have a philosophy which is quite simple: build more sportsgrounds and Now with the new government and a department intent fewer jails. on finding $338 million in funding costs — $36 million this year — it would appear that the school is to have a The Gembrook football club has been promised massive $1 million in capital works stripped from its funding for new lights, which would allow its members rebuild. I have written to the minister twice about this to train for longer, and we are working together on this matter, most recently on 24 February, asking for an opportunity. Wesburn Junior Football has been urgent response, as construction is well under way. To promised funding to fix poor drainage at its oval to date I have not received a response. In that letter I improve safety for our young players. We have pointed out that the deleted components of the rebuild committed to a new toilet block and covered area for are not luxury items; they are basic items, including supporters at Berwick Football Club. We cannot forget year 12 facilities, a timber floor for the dance area, Beaconsfield Football Club where we are helping to shelving for the store rooms, roller shutters for lockers complete a major project, which is the club’s expansion and a drinking fountain. These are normal items that to Holm Park Reserve. The coalition has also one would expect to find in a new building of this size committed funds to Rythdale-Officer-Cardinia Football and nature. Club.

The money for this project was allocated and published All these clubs have long and proud histories. in the 2009–10 budget. Construction is well under way, Beaconsfield Football Club has just celebrated its and these items need to be put back in to the project 120th year, and Berwick Football Club recently scope before it is completed. The school needs an celebrated just over 100 years. There are also the assurance now that it will receive its full $9 million, Wesburn and Millgrove football clubs. We have such a which was the amount that was promised and contained good community sports feeling up there that we have in the 2009–10 budget. even had the Warburton and Gembrook under-18s teams merge to ensure that our young people can

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1114 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 continue to play sport. This is a sign that our haulage costs, which is predicted to reduce the cost of communities can and will work together, using sport as fruit and vegetables to Victorian families; this is one of a binding solution. the most crucial cost of living issues confronting Victorian families every night at the dinner table. The I ask the minister to visit Gembrook and support the relocation will also allow for an expansion of the port Baillieu government’s 100 per cent commitment to of Melbourne, with significant benefits for trade and the grassroots sport. Gembrook has a proud tradition in growth of the Victorian economy. sport, and as the member for Gembrook I am delighted to support these clubs. Let me put this bluntly. Business craves certainty. Melbourne’s north, and Broadmeadows in particular, Melbourne Markets: relocation crave jobs. The decision to relocate the markets must be confirmed as a matter of urgency. Mr McGUIRE (Broadmeadows) — The matter I wish to raise is for the attention of the Minister for Aboriginals: north-eastern Victoria Major Projects. The action I seek is for him to commit to Labor’s vision and confirm the relocation of Dr SYKES (Benalla) — My adjournment issue is Melbourne wholesale markets to Melbourne’s north. for the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. The action I This is a project of state significance. It will deliver a request is an update on registered Aboriginal parties range of rich opportunities for increasing growth and and how they are established, in particular action that is jobs in Victoria. It will also reduce the cost of living being taken to clarify registered Aboriginal party status and traffic congestion for Victorians. Critically for my in north-eastern Victoria. The electorate of Benalla is electorate, the relocation of the markets represents the the traditional home of a number of Aboriginal groups, biggest job creation project available for Melbourne s including the Yorta Yorta, Bangerang, Way wurru, north. It will deliver an estimated 10 000 jobs through Yaithmathang, Taungurong and Dhudhuroa. Through the market relocation and complementary businesses — my dealings with members of a number of these groups and that is the equivalent of four Ford Motor I have formed friendships with quite a few of the Companies being introduced into the region. This is Aboriginal people, including Ella Anselmi from vital for Broadmeadows, which currently suffers an Shepparton, Sandy Atkinson, a member of the unemployment rate of 15 per cent, three times the state Bangerang in Shepparton, and Wally Cooper and his average. This is also a critical project which concerns sons, who live at Glenrowan. my parliamentary Labor colleagues from Melbourne’s north, who are committed to jobs and growth in one of Locally the Yorta Yorta is the only recognised Victoria’s key economic engine rooms. registered Aboriginal party, and that has caused considerable grief to the Bangerang, who maintain that The Baillieu government’s failure to commit to this they have very strong claims to the lands around project has had a negative impact. I have been told that Benalla. The Bangerang are looking for the opportunity multimillion-dollar investments have been put on hold to be classified as a registered Aboriginal party, not because of the government’s repeated failure to meet its instead of but as well as the Yorta Yorta. In addition to own deadlines for announcing its decision on the that particular issue which is running, it is interesting project’s future. The arguments for the relocation were that an article in the Border Mail of 4 April reports a run and won years ago. They are compelling by any problem which has occurred because of indecision objective analysis: the wholesalers, retailers and about who are the traditional owners of various tracts of growers who use the markets and lease space made it land in the north-eastern area. There is a high degree of clear they backed the Epping site as the preferred uncertainty, which is impacting on costs for developers location for a new market; 80 per cent of produce and others developing land. comes from the north, which means that the produce from the Goulburn Valley, Albury-Wodonga, Mildura, One particular Aboriginal leader, Gary Murray, says: central Victoria and interstate will be catered for at a … developers and the government are now being forced to contemporary, purpose-built site with ample room for pay as many as five indigenous groups to assess the existence expansion. or proliferation of sacred sites and other culturally significant markets. The Epping site will avoid costly traffic congestion, with its detrimental impact on productivity and the Most charge $600 a day to establish the cultural significance of a site, with many of the studies taking several days and quality of the lives of tens of thousands of Melburnians sometimes weeks. as the relocation will stop the market traffic driving through inner city streets and suburbs. It will reduce

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Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1115

Mr Murray goes on to say the latest decision to clarify communities. My key aim as Minister for Sport and the situation is a joke and may lead to other actions. Recreation is to see more people more active more Clearly we have a need for action. This is an issue that often. I accept the member’s invitation to visit the has been on the table for a number of years. I seek an electorate of Gembrook in the near future to speak update from the minister on what is being done to about not only our policy commitments but also other address this situation and, from a local perspective in activities with sporting clubs right across that electorate. particular, an examination of the issue of the Bangerang’s strong claims to registered Aboriginal Mrs POWELL (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs) — party status for those areas around Benalla. The member for Benalla raised a very important issue with me regarding his concerns about some Aboriginal Responses groups in his area — the Yorta Yorta and the Bangerang in particular — and the Bangerang’s Mr DELAHUNTY (Minister for Sport and concerns about not becoming a registered Aboriginal Recreation) — I thank the member of Gembrook, who party (RAP). I advise the member for Benalla that there raised an important matter with me tonight. I note his will be a review of the Aboriginal Heritage Act 2006 particular interest in increasing participation across a and a parliamentary inquiry into the appointment and variety of community sports and activities in the seat of effectiveness of registered Aboriginal parties. Gembrook. I have to say that I was able to go out to Gembrook in the lead-up to the election and had many One issue on which I called for action when I became dealings with the current member, who was then the the minister was a review of the registered Aboriginal candidate, and I admired his tenacity and connection parties, because across the state of Victoria only nine with the community. It is great to see him in the registered Aboriginal parties have been established, and Parliament representing the seat of Gembrook. He is a they cover only 56 per cent of the state. The concerns great member, and his constituents should be proud to have come from local councils and from other groups. have a member such as him. The councils are saying that if they do not have a local registered Aboriginal party in their municipality, there I also acknowledge the member for Gembrook’s strong are concerns about delays in development. There are commitment to sport and recreation within his also cost increases in the municipalities. electorate. He has outlined tonight a diversity of clubs and community involvement, whether it be floorball, There are also some concerns amongst the Aboriginal baseball, soccer, football, cricket, pony club activities, groups that were not granted registered Aboriginal swimming, golf, bowls or activities at a local dance party status. One of those is the Bangerang group, studio. I know his daughter is a keen dancer at the whose members are quite concerned that their studio there. Importantly, though, he spoke about application to be a registered Aboriginal party was floorball. Many players of floorball in Victoria come declined. As the member for Benalla says, he is not from his electorate. asking that they be the registered Aboriginal party instead of the Yorta Yorta; he is saying that both of The Victorian government places a strong priority on those groups are well respected in the community. increasing participation in sport and recreation in Victoria. We want to work with the member for One of the issues of concern and one of the reasons we Gembrook and his local groups to ensure that people are having a review of the RAPs is that a number of are more active. Like the member for Gembrook, I, as former Aboriginal cultural heritage officers had their the Minister for Sport and Recreation, have the aim of badges taken away from them last year and they have increasing participation across Victoria. He spoke about not been reappointed. These are Aboriginal elders with wanting to build more facilities and fewer jails. A a huge amount of local knowledge, experience and magistrate in my area tells me that he can show that expertise; these elders know and understand the local people involved in sport, particularly in team sport, are cultural heritage of their area, and it is really important less involved with the justice system. It is great that the that we get their information. At the moment they are member for Gembrook highlighted that point in his concerned that their knowledge is not being used. We adjournment matter. have about 32 000 sites on the Aboriginal Heritage Register with only about 3 per cent of the state having Like the member for Gembrook, I also strongly support been surveyed, so we really need to get as many increasing participation in sport. We want to do that for Aboriginal people as we can with that expertise to make various reasons: it is good for the health of the sure we keep and protect our Aboriginal heritage, not community, it is good for the bonding of the just for Aboriginal people but for all Victorians, community and it also builds strong and resilient

ADJOURNMENT

1116 ASSEMBLY Thursday, 7 April 2011 because it is everyone’s heritage, not just that of relation to the need for duplication of Aboriginal people. Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road to ensure there are two lanes each way. The member indicated that traffic on My office, Aboriginal Affairs Victoria, has already the road is heavily congested and that there is commenced a review of the Aboriginal Heritage Act significant development around it. For safety and traffic 2006, and that review will examine the operation of the flow reasons the member has asked that we consider act to determine whether it is still efficient. There will funding of the duplication of that road. be widespread consultation, and the groups that the member for Benalla has spoken about will be able to The member for Narre Warren South also pointed out put a submission to that review. I know the member has that the Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road is considered a very good relationship with all of the Aboriginal Casey council’s highest priority in relation to road groups in his area, so I am sure he will pass on that upgrades in the area. As the member will be aware, the information and ask them to provide a submission to former Labor government had 11 years to deal with this that review. The report will be completed by May 2012. situation but failed to provide the funding to complete this road. I say to the member for Narre Warren South The parliamentary inquiry into the establishment and that we will consider this request in future budgets. As effectiveness of registered Aboriginal parties will also the member would also be aware, particularly in provide an opportunity for Aboriginal groups in the relation to the transport budget, we are looking at a community who feel they still want to be included and massive black hole as a result of the Labor heard. They will be able to put a submission to the government’s failure to properly cost the regional rail inquiry. That inquiry is having a look at the RAPs that project — a loss of $1.1 billion plus — and of course exist at the moment, whether they are effective and we have not yet worked out the final cost in terms of whether they are working; and if they are not working, which way we go with myki and how many millions of we want to know why not. We want to support those dollars of taxpayers money is again going to have to be RAPs that are not working, because it is important that forked out. As the member can understand, the we identify and protect our Aboriginal culture. I am transport budget is under considerable pressure at this sure everybody has that outcome in mind. point in time. However, we will consider her request in relation to the Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road. We need to make sure that our indigenous Victorians feel they have a voice, a say in the community and the The member for Bentleigh also raised a very important opportunity to put their point of view across. As the issue with me in relation to the building of a new member for Benalla has outlined, there are a number of railway station at Southland shopping centre. As the Aboriginal groups in his electorate that feel they have member will be aware, this was a commitment by the been sidelined in relation to some of the issues that the Baillieu government leading up to the last election, and former government brought forward. Apart from the the member for Bentleigh has been a champion in terms registered Aboriginal parties, there are a number of of pushing the cause to get this project up and running. groups there who still feel disaffected and divided about She has been duly supported by the members for who should be the person who speaks for their country. Sandringham and Mordialloc because this new station We need to have that conversation; we need to make will provide significant benefits to those communities sure we give them the opportunity of having their say. I as well. I am delighted to inform the house that the urge the member for Benalla to speak to the groups in Department of Transport has already undertaken a his area and let them know that those inquiries and concept development study into the proposed reviews are open and happening at the moment and that Southland railway station and in the next couple of the parliamentary inquiry will be commencing shortly. I weeks the department expects to recommend that it am sure those groups will be able to keep in touch with move to the next step, which includes a concept design the member for Benalla. for the station plus scoping and costing. The issue of scoping and costing points to the difference between I urge everyone to have their say — this includes all the the new coalition government in Victoria and the stakeholders, whether they be indigenous people or former Labor government. not — to make sure that we have the appropriate RAPs in place and that they are able to protect our Aboriginal Earlier this week I raised an issue in this house in heritage for the benefit of generations to come. I thank relation to two railway stations that were not properly the member for Benalla for his inquiry. costed and scoped by the previous government. The final outcome of that failing will be that the stations will Mr MULDER (Minister for Public Transport) — be completed in late 2011 but there will be no power to The member for Narre Warren South raised an issue in run the trains. The stations will therefore lay idle for at

ADJOURNMENT

Thursday, 7 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1117 least six months until the power upgrades are Mr McINTOSH — Budget amount, thank you. I completed. We do not want this sort of activity will ensure that the minister deals with that matter. affecting the projects that the coalition government embarks on. The work will be undertaken, the project Finally, the member for Broadmeadows raised a matter will be properly scoped and all the costings will be for the Minister for Major Projects and asked him to carried out so that we have a good handle on what this commit to the relocation of the Melbourne wholesale project will cost and we not run into the problems of fruit and vegetable markets to his electorate. I will sloppy administration that occurred under the former make sure that the minister deals with that in a timely Labor government. fashion.

I commend the member for Bentleigh on fighting the The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The house good fight for her community, duly supported by the now stands adjourned until the next day of sitting. members for Sandringham and Mordialloc. I look forward to attending, with those three members, the House adjourned 4.40 p.m. until Tuesday, 3 May. opening of the new and important Southland railway station.

Mr McINTOSH (Minister for Corrections) — The member for Carrum raised a matter for the Minister for Environment and Climate Change in relation to a launching facility at Patterson River, and I will ensure that the minister responds to that matter. I note that the minister was in the chamber, but he must have forgotten to respond. I will make sure that he responds to the member in a timely manner.

The member for Bellarine raised a matter for the Minister for Education in relation to funding for the Portarlington Primary School. I will ensure that the minister responds to that in a timely fashion.

The member for Albert Park also raised a matter for the Minister for Education. I note that the member is probably not interested in a response as he is not now in the chamber.

An honourable member interjected.

Mr McINTOSH — Apparently he has gone, yes. I will ensure that the minister responds to that member.

The member for Seymour raised a matter for the Minister for Health in relation to the Seymour District Memorial Hospital and asked that he take action to address her constituents’ legitimate concerns about the hospital. I will ensure that the minister responds to that matter.

The member for Eltham raised a matter for the Minister for Education in relation to Eltham High School and asked that the minister ensure that the commitments that have been made will fully fund all aspects of the redevelopment.

An honourable member interjected.

1118 ASSEMBLY

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1119

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

Answers to the following questions on notice were circulated on the date shown. Questions have been incorporated from the notice paper of the Legislative Assembly. Answers have been incorporated in the form supplied by the departments on behalf of the appropriate ministers. The portfolio of the minister answering the question on notice starts each heading.

Tuesday, 5 April 2011

Education: Sebastopol College — upgrade

19. Ms KNIGHT to ask the Minister for Education with reference to proposed capital works at Sebastopol College:

(1) Has the minister sought advice from the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development on the delivery of the works. (2) Has the minister received advice from the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development on the delivery of the works; if so, did that advice recommend a time line for provision of funding, what date was recommended and did the minister accept the recommendation. (3) Has the minister asked that funds for capital works be included in the 2011–12 budget by writing to the: (a) Premier; (b) Treasurer.

(4) Has the provision of funding for capital works been included in any budget submission made by the minister for the 2011–12 budget. (5) Has the minister taken any formal action to ensure the provision of additional funding in 2011–12; if so, what was the formal action.

ANSWER:

I am informed as follows:

As the member would be aware, consideration of budget initiatives is cabinet-in-confidence.

I can however reconfirm the government’s $18 million capital commitment to rebuild Sebastopol secondary college as part of the development of the Ballarat South Learning Community. This project involves Sebastopol secondary college and the adjacent Redan Primary School coming together under a single governance structure while remaining on their existing sites.

As one of the government’s priority projects, funding will be provided and works will commence during this term of government. The project is currently at the master planning stage and a number of community partnership opportunities are being explored.

The $18 million funding committed to the college will enable a major redevelopment and the provision of state-of- the-art learning environments for secondary students in Ballarat South.

Housing: neighbourhood renewal — Delacombe

20. Ms KNIGHT to ask the Minister for Sport and Recreation for the Minister for Housing with reference to the Delacombe neighbourhood renewal project:

(1) Has the minister taken any action to ensure the continuation of the project.

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

1120 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011

(2) Has the minister sought, through any formal process or action, funding for the project. (3) Is the minister committed to the ongoing operation of the project with financial support from the government.

ANSWER:

I am informed that:

(1) Yes, the minister has taken action to ensure the continuation of the Delacombe neighbourhood renewal project. She has given a commitment to support existing neighbourhood renewal projects to continue, including Delacombe, for the remainder of their funding period. The minister is currently undertaking a review of the initiative to ensure that the focus of renewal projects in the future will meet the new government’s priorities and strengthen outcomes for families and communities.

(2&3) Consistent with well established conventions adopted by successive Victorian governments, the details of the budget process and the forward estimates over the next four years is a cabinet matter. The budget will be presented on 3 May 2011 and will be subject to the usual parliamentary and public scrutiny.

Housing: city of Ballarat

21. Ms KNIGHT to ask the Minister for Sport and Recreation for the Minister for Housing with reference to public housing in the city of Ballarat:

(1) Has the minister sought, and received, Department of Human Services briefings on: (a) the availability of public housing; (b) projected capital works for the Office of Housing.

(2) What, based on previously approved projects, is the projected capital spend by the Office of Housing for the construction of new homes. (3) Has the minister taken any action to increase the number of residential properties owned by the Office of Housing; if so, what was the action.

ANSWER:

I am informed that:

(1) (a) The minister has received briefings on issues relating to the availability of public housing in Victoria. (b) The minister has received briefings on projected capital works.

(2 & 3) Consistent with well established conventions adopted by successive Victorian governments, the details of the budget process and the forward estimates over the next four years is a cabinet matter. The budget will be presented on 3 May 2011 and will be subject to the usual parliamentary and public scrutiny.

Public transport: rail — Ballarat–Geelong service

23. Ms KNIGHT to ask the Minister for Public Transport with reference to a feasibility study into the provision of a passenger rail service between Ballarat and Geelong:

(1) Has the minister sought advice from the Department of Transport on a study. (2) Has the minister received advice from the Department of Transport on a study; if so, did that advice recommend a time line for completion of the study, what date was recommended and did the minister accept the recommendation.

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1121

(3) Has the minister asked that funds for conducting the study be included in the 2011–12 budget by writing to the: (a) Premier; (b) Treasurer.

(4) Has the provision for conducting the study been included in any budget submission made by the minister for the 2011–12 budget. (5) Has the minister taken any formal action to ensure the provision of additional funding in 2011–12; if so, what was the formal action.

ANSWER:

I am informed that, as at the date the question was raised:

(1)–(5) Consistent with well established conventions adopted by successive Victorian governments, the details of the budget process and the forward estimates over the next four years is a cabinet matter. The budget will be presented on 3 May 2011 and will be subject to the usual legislative and public scrutiny.

Public transport: rail — Ballarat–Bendigo service

24. Ms KNIGHT to ask the Minister for Public Transport with reference to a feasibility study into the provision of a passenger rail service between Ballarat and Bendigo:

(1) Has the minister sought advice from the Department of Transport on a study. (2) Has the minister received advice from the Department of Transport on a study; if so, did that advice recommend a time line for completion of the study, what date was recommended and did the minister accept the recommendation. (3) Has the minister asked that funds for conducting the study be included in the 2011–12 budget by writing to the: (a) Premier; (b) Treasurer.

(4) Has the provision for conducting the study been included in any budget submission made by the minister for the 2011–12 budget. (5) Has the minister taken any formal action to ensure the provision of additional funding in 2011–12; if so, what was the formal action.

ANSWER:

I am informed that, as at the date the question was raised:

(1)–(5) Consistent with well established conventions adopted by successive Victorian governments, the details of the budget process and the forward estimates over the next four years is a cabinet matter. The budget will be presented on 3 May 2011 and will be subject to the usual legislative and public scrutiny.

Public transport: rail — Wendouree service

25. Ms KNIGHT to ask the Minister for Public Transport with reference to the extension of train services, which currently terminate at Ballarat station, to Wendouree station:

(1) Has the minister sought advice from the Department of Transport on the extension of services.

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

1122 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011

(2) Has the minister received advice from the Department of Transport on the extension of services; if so, did that advice recommend a time line for the extension of services, what date was recommended and did the minister accept the recommendation. (3) Has the minister asked that funds for the extension of services be included in the 2011–12 budget by writing to the: (a) Premier; (b) Treasurer.

(4) Has the provision for the extension of services been included in any budget submission made by the minister for the 2011–12 budget. (5) Has the minister taken any formal action to ensure the provision of additional funding in 2011–12; if so, what was the formal action.

ANSWER:

I am informed that, as at the date the question was raised:

(1-5) I have sought and received advice from the Department of Transport concerning the extension of additional Ballarat train services to/from Wendouree Station. This advice is currently being reviewed.

Public transport: Ballarat link road — funding

28. Ms KNIGHT to ask the Minister for Public Transport with reference to the planning works and land acquisition for the proposed Ballarat western link road:

(1) Has the minister sought advice from the Department of Transport or VicRoads on the proposed road. (2) Has the minister received advice from the Department of Transport or VicRoads on the proposed road; if so, did that advice recommend a time line for provision of funding to the project, what date was recommended and did the minister accept the recommendation. (3) Has the minister asked that funding be included in the 2011–12 budget by writing to the: (a) Premier; (b) Treasurer.

(4) Has the provision for funding been included in any budget submission made by the minister for the 2011–12 budget. (5) Has the minister taken any formal action to ensure the provision of funding in 2011–12; if so, what was the formal action.

ANSWER:

(1)–(5) Consistent with well established conventions adopted by successive Victorian governments, the details of the budget process and the forward estimates over the next four years is a cabinet matter. The budget will be presented on 3 May 2011 and will be subject to the usual legislative and public scrutiny.

Sport and recreation: Marty Busch Reserve, Sebastopol — BMX facility

29. Ms KNIGHT to ask the Minister for Sport and Recreation with reference to the government’s commitment of $60 000 to upgrade the BMX facility at Marty Busch Reserve:

(1) Has the minister sought advice from the Department of Planning and Community Development on the upgrade.

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1123

(2) Has the minister received advice from the Department of Planning and Community Development on the upgrade; if so, did that advice recommend a time line for the provision of funding for the upgrade, what date was recommended and did the minister accept the recommendation. (3) Has the minister asked that funds for the upgrade be included in the 2011–12 budget by writing to the: (a) Premier; (b) Treasurer.

(4) Has the provision for the upgrade been included in any budget submission made by the minister for the 2011–12 budget. (5) Has the minister taken any formal action to ensure the provision of additional funding in 2011–12; if so, what was the formal action.

ANSWER:

I am informed that:

Sport and Recreation Victoria are preparing advice on the implementation of all the government’s election commitments for funding of community sport and recreation facilities. This includes procedures for the department to meet with all recipients of funding to discuss their individual projects. This will include discussions on potential cash flows for the projects.

The outcomes of government budget deliberations will be announced by the Treasurer when the 2011–12 state budget is presented to Parliament.

Sport and recreation: regional soccer and community facility, Ballarat

30. Ms KNIGHT to ask the Minister for Sport and Recreation with reference to the government’s commitment of $2 million to build a regional soccer and community facility for Ballarat:

(1) Has the minister sought advice from the Department of Planning and Community Development on the facility. (2) Has the minister received advice from the Department of Planning and Community Development on the facility; if so, did that advice recommend a time line for provision of funding, what date was recommended and did the minister accept the recommendation. (3) Has the minister asked that the $2 million be included in the 2011–12 budget by writing to the: (a) Premier; (b) Treasurer.

(4) Has the provision of the $2 million been included in any budget submission made by the minister for the 2011–12 budget. (5) Has the minister taken any formal action to ensure the provision of the $2 million in 2011–12; if so, what was the formal action.

ANSWER:

I am informed that:

Sport and Recreation Victoria are preparing advice on the implementation of all the government’s election commitments for funding of community sport and recreation facilities. This includes procedures for the department to meet with all recipients of funding to discuss their individual projects. This will include discussions on potential cash flows for the projects.

The outcomes of government budget deliberations will be announced by the Treasurer when the 2011–12 state budget is presented to Parliament.

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

1124 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011

Roads: Ballarat-Buninyong Road, Ballarat — upgrade

35. Mr HOWARD to ask the Minister for Roads with reference to the proposal to provide $4.5 million to upgrade Ballarat-Buninyong Road:

(1) Has the minister sought, and received, advice from the Department of Transport on for the upgrade; if so, did that advice recommend a time line for the upgrade, what date was recommended and did the minister accept the recommendation. (2) Has the minister asked that funds for the upgrade be included in the 2011–12 budget by writing to the: (a) Premier; (b) Treasurer.

(3) Has the provision of $4.5 million for the upgrade been included in any budget submission made by the minister for the 2011–12 budget. (4) Has the minister taken any formal action to ensure the provision of $4.5 million for the upgrade in 2011–12.

ANSWER:

(1)–(4) Consistent with well established conventions adopted by successive Victorian governments, the details of the budget process and the forward estimates over the next four years is a cabinet matter. The budget will be presented on 3 May 2011 and will be subject to the usual legislative and public scrutiny.

Education: Kyneton Secondary College — upgrade

37. Mr HOWARD to ask the Minister for Education with reference to funding to upgrade Kyneton Secondary College:

(1) Has the minister asked that funding be included in the 2011–12 budget by writing to the: (a) Premier; (b) Treasurer.

(2) Has the provision of funding been included in any budget submission made by the minister for the 2011–12 budget. (3) Has the minister taken any formal action to ensure funding for the upgrade is provided in 2011–12.

ANSWER:

I am informed as follows:

As the member would be aware, consideration of budget initiatives is cabinet-in-confidence.

Kyneton Secondary College has undertaken planning for a proposed rebuild that will involve consolidation with Kyneton Primary School and links with TAFE and other local education providers.

Planning for this project is progressing, however funding cannot be determined until master planning is completed. This project will be considered along with other proposed school upgrades for capital funding in future budgets.

Housing: shire of Hepburn

38. Mr HOWARD to ask the Minister for Sport and Recreation for the Minister for Housing with reference to the availability of public housing in the Hepburn shire:

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

Tuesday, 5 April 2011 ASSEMBLY 1125

(1) Has the minister sought, and received, departmental briefings on: (a) the availability of public housing in the shire; (b) projected capital works for the Office of Housing within the shire.

(2) What, based on previously approved projects, is the projected capital spend within the shire by the Office of Housing for the construction of new homes. (3) Has the minister taken any action to increase the number of residential properties owned by the Office of Housing within the shire; if so, what was the action.

ANSWER:

I am informed that:

(1) (a) The minister has received briefings on issues relating to the availability of public housing in Victoria. (b) The minister has received briefings on projected capital works.

(2 & 3) Consistent with well established conventions adopted by successive Victorian governments, the details of the budget process and the forward estimates over the next four years is a cabinet matter. The budget will be presented on 3 May 2011 and will be subject to the usual parliamentary and public scrutiny.

Housing: shire of Moorabool

39. Mr HOWARD to ask the Minister for Sport and Recreation for the Minister for Housing with reference to the availability of public housing in the Moorabool shire:

(1) Has the minister sought, and received, departmental briefings on: (a) the availability of public housing in the shire; (b) projected capital works for the Office of Housing within the shire.

(2) What, based on previously approved projects, is the projected capital spend within the shire by the Office of Housing for the construction of new homes. (3) Has the minister taken any action to increase the number of residential properties owned by the Office of Housing within the shire; if so, what was the action.

ANSWER:

I am informed that:

(1) (a) The minister has received briefings on issues relating to the availability of public housing in Victoria. (b) The minister has received briefings on projected capital works.

(2 & 3) Consistent with well established conventions adopted by successive Victorian governments, the details of the budget process and the forward estimates over the next four years is a cabinet matter. The budget will be presented on 3 May 2011 and will be subject to the usual parliamentary and public scrutiny.

Housing: shire of Macedon Ranges

40. Mr HOWARD to ask the Minister for Sport and Recreation for the Minister for Housing with reference to the availability of public housing in the Macedon Ranges shire:

(1) Has the minister sought, and received, departmental briefings on: (a) the availability of public housing in the shire;

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

1126 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 5 April 2011

(b) projected capital works for the Office of Housing within the shire.

(2) What, based on previously approved projects, is the projected capital spend within the shire by the Office of Housing for the construction of new homes. (3) Has the minister taken any action to increase the number of residential properties owned by the Office of Housing within the shire; if so, what was the action.

ANSWER:

I am informed that:

(1) (a) The minister has received briefings on issues relating to the availability of public housing in Victoria. (b) The minister has received briefings on projected capital works.

(2 & 3) Consistent with well established conventions adopted by successive Victorian governments, the details of the budget process and the forward estimates over the next four years is a cabinet matter. The budget will be presented on 3 May 2011 and will be subject to the usual parliamentary and public scrutiny.

MEMBERS INDEX

ASSEMBLY i

MEMBERS INDEX Bills Public Holidays Amendment Bill 2011, 875, 1017

ALLAN, Ms (Bendigo East) Governor’s speech

Adjournment Address-in-reply, 1066 Rail: regional link, 929 BAILLIEU, Mr (Hawthorn) (Premier and Minister for the Arts) Business of the house Program, 878 Points of order, 979 Sessional orders, 973, 985 Questions without notice Members statements Children: protection, 1096 Eaglehawk Primary School: future, 883 Governor of Victoria: retirement, 1089 Points of order, 868, 869, 872, 873, 874, 970, 975, 976, 977, 978, Monash Medical Centre: children’s centre, 1092 981, 984, 1092, 1094, 1097 Mr Finn (Western Metropolitan Region): comments, 976, 1089 Treasurer: ministerial council attendance, 867, 978

ANDREWS, Mr (Mulgrave) (Leader of the Opposition) BARKER, Ms (Oakleigh) Bills Governor’s speech Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 996 Public Holidays Amendment Bill 2011, 875 Address-in-reply, 1099

Points of order, 867, 868, 869, 871, 873, 979, 983, 985, 1094, 1096, Members statements 1097 Hell on the Way to Heaven, 888

Questions without notice Points of order, 1095 Children: protection, 867, 868, 872, 982, 1096 Questions without notice Governor of Victoria: retirement, 1090 Monash Medical Centre: children’s centre, 1092 Minister for Community Services critical incident reports, 979 departmental briefings, 983 BATTIN, Mr (Gembrook)

Adjournment ANGUS, Mr (Forest Hill) Gembrook electorate: sports facilities, 1113

Adjournment Members statements Schools: Forest Hill electorate, 1045 Member for Gembrook: community consultation, 889 Bills Women: Gembrook electorate, 889 Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 1041 Points of order, 955

Members statements Questions without notice Forest Hill electorate: cost of living, 890 Rail: Cardinia Road and Lynbrook stations, 982 Nunawading Basketball Centre: hall of fame, 889

Questions without notice BAUER, Mrs (Carrum) Taxation: GST revenue, 869 Adjournment Patterson River: boating facility, 1110 ASHER, Ms (Brighton) (Minister for Innovation, Services and Small Business and Minister for Tourism and Major Events) Bills

Adjournment Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1027 Cycling: Tour of Gippsland, 934 Members statements Bonbeach Life Saving Club: fundraiser, 885

MEMBERS INDEX ii ASSEMBLY

Emily Prinnet, 885 Questions without notice Patterson River Secondary College: basketball and netball stadium, Taxation: GST revenue, 870 885 Schools: upgrades, 885 BURGESS, Mr (Hastings) Questions without notice Police: transit division, 873 Members statements Baxter Preschool: sausage sizzle, 1056 BEATTIE, Ms (Yuroke) Frankston Hospital: upgrade, 1056 Port of Hastings: ministerial visit, 1056 Adjournment Points of order, 963, 1081 Somerton Road: duplication, 1043

Bills CAMPBELL, Ms (Pascoe Vale) Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 905 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1031 Members statements

Business of the house Margaret Hardy: 80th birthday, 947 Sonja Josipovic, 1053 Orders of the day, 968 Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee Members statements Alert Digest No. 3, 876 Tucge Akkok, 888

Points of order, 1048 CARBINES, Mr (Ivanhoe) Rulings, 920, 923 Bills Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 914 BLACKWOOD, Mr (Narracan) Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) Bill 2011, 928, 995 Adjournment Members statements Cycling: Tour of Gippsland, 929 Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre: funding, 1055 Governor’s speech Points of order, 874 Address-in-reply, 1086, 1098

Members statements CLARK, Mr (Box Hill) (Attorney-General and Minister for Kokoda Trail: Salute to the 39th dinner, 1055 Finance)

Bills BROOKS, Mr (Bundoora) Crimes Amendment (Bullying) Bill 2011, 875, 1018, 1019 Bills Family Violence Protection Amendment (Safety Notices) Bill 2011, 875, 1020, 1021 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1006 Matter of public importance Governor’s speech Industrial relations: government policy, 950 Address-in-reply, 1074 Points of order, 976 Petitions Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Centre: funding, 876 CRISP, Mr (Mildura)

BULL, Mr (Gippsland East) Bills

Members statements Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation and Reform Council) Bill 2011, 896 Fishing: high country competition, 884 Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 1040 Orbost Cricket Club: premiership, 885

MEMBERS INDEX

ASSEMBLY iii

Members statements EDWARDS, Ms (Bendigo West) Rural Financial Counselling Service: Mildura office, 888 Members statements Solar energy: government initiatives, 1060 Castlemaine Secondary College: funding, 1058 Golden Square Primary School: funding, 1058 D’AMBROSIO, Ms (Mill Park) Points of order, 874 Bills Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 901 EREN, Mr (Lara)

Bills DELAHUNTY, Mr (Lowan) (Minister for Sport and Recreation and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs) Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1028

Adjournment Business of the house Gembrook electorate: sports facilities, 1115 Orders of the day, 969 Kilsyth electorate: sports facilities, 1050 Members statements Governor’s speech Corio-Norlane education regeneration project, 884

Address-in-reply, 1101 Petitions Members statements Rail: regional link, 876

Schools: Lowan electorate, 1054 Points of order, 915, 920, 981

DIXON, Mr (Nepean) (Minister for Education) FOLEY, Mr (Albert Park) Adjournment Adjournment Mount Pleasant Road Primary School and Kindergarten: funding, 935 Schools: Port Melbourne, 1112 National curriculum: Hindi language, 936 Business of the house Schools Sessional orders, 991 Forest Hill electorate, 1051 Tarneit, 936 Governor’s speech Address-in-reply, 1104 Governor’s speech Address-in-reply, 1061 Points of order, 875, 978

Questions without notice Autism: eastern suburbs school, 1093 FYFFE, Mrs (Evelyn) (The Deputy Speaker)

Bills DONNELLAN, Mr (Narre Warren North) Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1011

Points of order, 1094 Members statements Celebrate Mooroolbark 2011, 940 Questions without notice Dental services: waiting lists, 940 Children: protection, 1093 Minister for Community Services: departmental briefings, 870, Rulings, 893, 934, 948, 952, 955, 1081 871, 980

GARRETT, Ms (Brunswick) DUNCAN, Ms (Macedon) Bills Adjournment Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) Bill 2011, Defibrillators: public access, 931 921

MEMBERS INDEX iv ASSEMBLY

Members statements HALFPENNY, Ms (Thomastown) Brunswick Secondary College: funding, 942 Bills Points of order, 977, 978, 1089 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1036

Questions without notice Matter of public importance Mr Finn (Western Metropolitan Region): comments, 976, 1089 Industrial relations: government policy, 953

Members statements GIDLEY, Mr (Mount Waverley) Fawkner Bowling Club: Presidents and Veterans Day, 1056

Bills Points of order, 874 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1001

Members statements HELPER, Mr (Ripon) Winaccom Association: funding, 1060 Members statements Maryborough fire brigade: 150th anniversary, 885 GRALEY, Ms (Narre Warren South)

Adjournment HENNESSY, Ms (Altona) Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne North: duplication, 1109 Bills Crimes Amendment (Bullying) Bill 2011, 875 Bills Family Violence Protection Amendment (Safety Notices) Bill Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 909 2011, 875 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1033 Petitions Business of the house Rail: Werribee line, 1053 Orders of the day, 971 Points of order, 915, 952 Members statements Questions without notice Berwick trades career centre: funding, 945 Melbourne Racing Club chief executive officer: comments, 1090 Petitions Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne North: duplication, 876 HERBERT, Mr (Eltham)

Adjournment GREEN, Ms (Yan Yean) Eltham High School: funding, 1113

Adjournment Members statements Epping Road, Epping: duplication, 1044 VCE Season of Excellence 2011, 1058

Bills Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation and Reform HODGETT, Mr (Kilsyth) Council) Bill 2011, 890 Adjournment Governor’s speech Kilsyth electorate: sports facilities, 1043 Address-in-reply, 1061 Business of the house Members statements Orders of the day, 969 Kangaroos: control, 946 Program, 881

Petitions Members statements Schools: Doreen, 939 Treasurer: ministerial council attendance, 886 Points of order, 893, 956, 962

MEMBERS INDEX

ASSEMBLY v

HOLDING, Mr (Lyndhurst) Questions without notice Rail: regional link, 871 Business of the house Sessional orders, 987 KNIGHT, Ms (Ballarat West)

HOWARD, Mr (Ballarat East) Matter of public importance Industrial relations: government policy, 959 Adjournment Vertex: Ballarat customer support centre, 1046 Members statements Sebastopol: smoke night, 1057 Bills Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1037 KOTSIRAS, Mr (Bulleen) (Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Members statements Citizenship) Schools: Kyneton, 944 Adjournment Lionsville aged-care facility: lease, 1051 HULLS, Mr (Niddrie) Vertex: Ballarat customer support centre, 1051

Governor’s speech Questions without notice Address-in-reply, 1079 Schools: languages other than English, 1094

Members statements Autism: eastern suburbs school, 941 LANGUILLER, Mr (Derrimut)

Points of order, 873, 976, 977, 1093 Bills Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation and Reform Council) Bill 2011, 900 HUTCHINS, Ms (Keilor) Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1009

Bills Members statements Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation and Reform Mental health: western suburbs forum, 947 Council) Bill 2011, 897

Matter of public importance LIM, Mr (Clayton) Industrial relations: government policy, 957 Bills Members statements Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1012 World Autism Awareness Day, 943 Members statements City of Kingston: alcohol-free zones, 1059 KAIROUZ, Ms (Kororoit)

Matter of public importance McCURDY, Mr (Murray Valley) Industrial relations: government policy, 966 Adjournment Floods: Murray Valley electorate, 1047 KATOS, Mr (South Barwon) Bills Bills Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1034 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1024 Members statements Members statements Relay for Life: Cobram Barooga, 886 Barwon Heads Bowling Club: 40th anniversary, 946 Deakin University: funding, 946 South Barwon Football and Netball Club, 946

MEMBERS INDEX vi ASSEMBLY

McGUIRE, Mr (Broadmeadows) Members statements Planning: Moonee Ponds development, 887 Adjournment Melbourne Markets: relocation, 1114 Points of order, 964

Bills Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 1039 MERLINO, Mr (Monbulk)

Members statements Members statements Penola Catholic College: redevelopment, 940 Monbulk Rangers Soccer Club, 889 Silvan Football Club, 889

McINTOSH, Mr (Kew) (Minister for Corrections, Minister for Crime Prevention and Minister responsible for the establishment of MILLER, Ms (Bentleigh) an anti-corruption commission) Adjournment Adjournment Rail: Southland station, 1111 Eltham High School: funding, 1117 Members statements Melbourne Markets: relocation, 1117 Patterson River: boating facility, 1117 Youth: under-age drinking, 944 Portarlington Primary School: redevelopment, 1117 Questions without notice Schools: Port Melbourne, 1117 Treasurer: ministerial council attendance, 978 Seymour District Memorial Hospital: management, 1117

Business of the house MORRIS, Mr (Mornington) Orders of the day, 967 Program, 877 Bills Sessional orders, 972, 994 Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) Bill 2011, 920 Parliamentary committees Business of the house Membership, 1053 Sessional orders, 992 Points of order, 975 Members statements Planning: Mount Eliza land, 942 McLEISH, Ms (Seymour) Toorak College: music centre opening, 942

Adjournment Rulings, 970, 975 Seymour District Memorial Hospital: management, 1112

Bills MULDER, Mr (Polwarth) (Minister for Public Transport and Minister for Roads) Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation and Reform Council) Bill 2011, 899 Adjournment Members statements Epping Road, Epping: duplication, 1050 Champions of the Bush awards, 887 Narre Warren-Cranbourne Road, Cranbourne North: duplication, 1116 Questions without notice Princes Freeway, Morwell: closure, 1050 Rock Eisteddfod Challenge: funding, 984 Rail Geelong station, 1049 regional link, 934 MADDEN, Mr (Essendon) Southland station, 1116 Somerton Road: duplication, 1050 Adjournment Questions without notice Lionsville aged-care facility: lease, 1047 Rail Matter of public importance Cardinia Road and Lynbrook stations, 982 Industrial relations: government policy, 963 regional link, 871

MEMBERS INDEX

ASSEMBLY vii

NAPTHINE, Dr (South-West Coast) (Minister for Ports, Minister Bills for Regional Cities, Minister for Racing and Minister for Major Projects) Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 912 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1014 Business of the house Members statements Sessional orders, 989 Oxfam: Trailwalker fundraiser, 943 Points of order, 893, 977, 1094 Questions without notice Questions without notice Latrobe Valley: government initiatives, 1091 Floods: government assistance, 1097 Melbourne Racing Club chief executive officer: comments, 1091 O’BRIEN, Mr (Malvern) (Minister for Gaming, Minister for Consumer Affairs and Minister for Energy and Resources)

NARDELLA, Mr (Melton) Business of the house

Governor’s speech Program, 879 Address-in-reply, 1084 Questions without notice Former government: renewable energy policy, 979 NEVILLE, Ms (Bellarine) PALLAS, Mr (Tarneit) Adjournment Portarlington Primary School: redevelopment, 1110 Adjournment

Members statements Schools: Tarneit, 931 Toc H site, Point Lonsdale, 1060 Business of the house Program, 881

NEWTON-BROWN, Mr (Prahran) Governor’s speech

Bills Address-in-reply, 1064 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1029 Matter of public importance

Matter of public importance Industrial relations: government policy, 947 Industrial relations: government policy, 955 Members statements

Members statements Police: city of Wyndham, 885 Stonnington Primary School: student leadership, 1059 Petitions Rail: regional link, 939

NOONAN, Mr (Williamstown) Points of order, 934

Bills Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) Bill 2011, PANDAZOPOULOS, Mr (Dandenong) 925 Bills Members statements Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1002 Rail: Altona loop service, 890 Members statements Petitions Melbourne Food and Wine Festival: Afghan banquet, 886 Rail: Werribee line, 939

PERERA, Mr (Cranbourne) NORTHE, Mr (Morwell) Adjournment Adjournment National curriculum: Hindi language, 932 Princes Freeway, Morwell: closure, 1045

MEMBERS INDEX viii ASSEMBLY

Bills RYAN, Mr (Gippsland South) (Minister for Police and Emergency Services, Minister for Bushfire Response and Minister for Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 911 Regional and Rural Development) Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1025 Adjournment Governor’s speech Floods: Murray Valley electorate, 1048 Address-in-reply, 1069 Points of order, 869, 979, 1092

PIKE, Ms (Melbourne) Questions without notice

Points of order, 962 Latrobe Valley: government initiatives, 1091 Police election commitment, 981 POWELL, Mrs (Shepparton) (Minister for Local Government and transit division, 873 Minister for Aboriginal Affairs) Taxation: GST revenue, 870

Adjournment Aboriginals: north-eastern Victoria, 1115 SCOTT, Mr (Preston)

Governor’s speech Bills Address-in-reply, 1077 Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation and Reform Council) Bill 2011, 895 Members statements Members statements Bernie Trevaskis and Graeme Young, 1054 Frank Chandler, 1055

RICHARDSON, Ms (Northcote) SHAW, Mr (Frankston) Members statements Adjournment Ron Gleeson, 1054 Kananook Creek: management plan, 1047 Points of order, 983 Members statements Frankston: hoon driving, 1057 RYALL, Ms (Mitcham) Frankston Hospital: upgrade, 1057 Frankston TV, 1057 Adjournment Police: Frankston, 1057 Mount Pleasant Road Primary School and Kindergarten: funding, 932 Points of order, 996

Matter of public importance Questions without notice Industrial relations: government policy, 958 Police: election commitment, 981 Members statements

Blackburn North parkland: future, 1058 SMITH, Mr R. (Warrandyte) (Minister for Environment and Box Hill to Ringwood bike trail: funding, 1058 Climate Change and Minister for Youth Affairs)

Petitions Adjournment Box Hill to Ringwood bike trail: funding, 939 Defibrillators: public access, 936 Points of order, 948 Emergency services: Echuca, 937 Sandringham: beach renourishment, 936 Questions without notice Bills Schools: languages other than English, 1094 Dental Hospital Land Bill 2011, 875, 1023

Governor’s speech Address-in-reply, 1081

MEMBERS INDEX

ASSEMBLY ix

Points of order, 934 THOMPSON, Mr (Sandringham)

Questions without notice Adjournment Rock Eisteddfod Challenge: funding, 984 Sandringham: beach renourishment, 931

Bills SOUTHWICK, Mr (Caulfield) Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 1038 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1008 Bills Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1032 Distinguished visitors, 1029 Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) Bill 2011, Members statements 923 Schools: former government performance, 944 Matter of public importance Victorian Women’s Honour Roll: inductees, 943 Industrial relations: government policy, 961

Members statements THOMSON, Ms (Footscray) Melbourne Central: anti-Israel protest, 945 Adjournment Rail: regional link, 930 SPEAKER, The (Hon. K. M. Smith) Bills Absence of ministers, 1088 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1015

Distinguished visitors, 975 Members statements

Rulings, 867, 868, 869, 871, 872, 873, 874, 875, 916, 976, 977, 978, Sunshine Football Club: achievements, 945 979, 981, 983, 984, 985, 996, 1048, 1089, 1092, 1093, 1094, 1096, 1097 TILLEY, Mr (Benambra) Rulings by the Chair Members statements Media conference: recording, 915 Asian honeybees: control, 941 Suspension of members Rulings, 956, 962, 963 Member for Monbulk, 1097 Member for Yan Yean, 984 TREZISE, Mr (Geelong) SYKES, Dr (Benalla) Adjournment Adjournment Rail: Geelong station, 1045

Aboriginals: north-eastern Victoria, 1114 Bills Bills Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1035

Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 1042 Members statements Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) Bill 2011, Geelong Trades Hall Council: Labour Day dinner, 942 926

Matter of public importance VICTORIA, Mrs (Bayswater) Industrial relations: government policy, 964

Members statements Members statements Youth: Benalla electorate, 1059 Autism: eastern suburbs school, 883 Castlemaine State Festival, 883 Questions without notice Loral Ipsum: expansion, 883 Former government: renewable energy policy, 979 Melbourne Museum: Tutankhamun exhibition, 883 Monash Gallery of Art, 883

Questions without notice Governor of Victoria: retirement, 1089

MEMBERS INDEX x ASSEMBLY

WAKELING, Mr (Ferntree Gully) Business of the house Orders of the day, 970 Bills Health Services Amendment (Health Innovation and Reform Members statements Council) Bill 2011, 893 Echuca Regional Health: funding, 941 Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1004 Questions without notice Governor’s speech Floods: government assistance, 1097 Address-in-reply, 1106

Matter of public importance WELLS, Mr (Scoresby) (Treasurer) Industrial relations: government policy, 952 Questions without notice Members statements Taxation: GST revenue, 869 Clean Up Australia Day: Ferntree Gully, 884 Lakesfield Drive–Napoleon Drive, Lysterfield: keep-clear marking, 884 WOOLDRIDGE, Ms (Doncaster) (Minister for Mental Health, Schools: Ferntree Gully electorate, 883 Minister for Women’s Affairs and Minister for Community Services) Stud Road: bus lanes, 884

Questions without notice Bills Autism: eastern suburbs school, 1093 Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 907 Questions without notice WALSH, Mr (Swan Hill) (Minister for Agriculture and Food Children: protection, 867, 868, 872, 982, 1094 Security and Minister for Water) Minister for Community Services critical incident reports, 979 Adjournment departmental briefings, 870, 871, 980, 983 Kananook Creek: management plan, 1050 Mordialloc Creek: dredging, 935 WREFORD, Ms (Mordialloc) Business of the house Sessional orders, 986 Adjournment Mordialloc Creek: dredging, 933 Governor’s speech Address-in-reply, 1071 Bills Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 910

WATT, Mr (Burwood) Members statements Mordialloc electorate: student leadership, 1056 Bills Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 1041 Questions without notice Multicultural Victoria Bill 2011, 1035 Treasurer: ministerial council attendance, 867

Members statements Ashburton: community fun day, 947 WYNNE, Mr (Richmond) Brian and Miriam Cherry: 50th wedding anniversary, 947 Bills Ian and Mena Camier: 60th wedding anniversary, 947 Roberts McCubbin Primary School: Japan gift, 947 Residential Tenancies Amendment (Public Housing) Bill 2011, 916 World Autism Awareness Day, 946 Business of the house

WELLER, Mr (Rodney) Program, 880 Sessional orders, 993 Adjournment Points of order, 923 Emergency services: Echuca, 930

Bills Liquor Control Reform Amendment Bill 2011, 904