3381 Questions and Answers

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PARLIAMENT OF NEW SOUTH WALES LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

1999-2000-2001

SECOND SESSION OF THE FIFTY-SECOND PARLIAMENT

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QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

No. 113

WEDNESDAY 17 JUNE 2001

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(The Questions and Answers Paper is published for each sitting day and will contain, by number and title, all unanswered questions, together with questions to which answers have been received on the previous sitting day and any new questions. Consequently the full text of any question will be printed only twice: when notice is given; and, when answered.) 3382 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Q. & A. No. 106 10 October 2001 (Including Question Nos 2388 to 2429) Q. & A. No. 107 11 October 2001 (Including Question Nos 2430 to 2473) Q. & A. No. 108 12 October 2001 (Including Question Nos 2474 to 2500) Q. & A. No. 109 24 October 2001 (Including Question Nos 2501 to 2528) Q. & A. No. 110 25 October 2001 (Including Question Nos 2529 to 2548) Q. & A. No. 111 26 October 2001 (Including Question Nos 2549 to 2577) Q. & A. No. 112 27 October 2001 (Including Question Nos 2578 to 2583) Q. & A. No. 113 21 November 2001 (Including Question Nos 2584 to 2612) 3383 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Notice of Question given on the date shown

4 SEPTEMBER 2001

(Paper No. 106)

*2388 AVO’S ISSUED IN NSW—Mr Armstrong to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) How many AVOs were issued in NSW in 2000? (2) How many AVOs were issued in NSW in 1999? (3) How many AVOs were issued in 2000 in the following Local Area Commands: (a) Griffith Local Area Command? (b) Cootamundra Local Area Command? (c) Wagga Wagga Local Area Command? (d) Lachlan Local Area Command? (e) Canabolas Local Area Command?

Answer—

(1) and (2) The Department compiles data in relation to AVOs on a financial year basis. Information has been provided about 1998/99 and 1999/2000, however information is not yet available for 2000/1. In 1999/2000, 13,448 Apprehended (Personal) Violence Orders and 25,104 Apprehended (Domestic) Violence Orders were issued. In 1998/99, 14,130 Apprehended (Personal) Violence Orders and 22, 855 Apprehended (Domestic) Violence Orders were issued (3) The Department compiles statistics for individual local courts, not on the basis of Local Area Commands (LACs). In relation to each of the following answers, the Police Service have provided advice about which courts come within the boundaries of particular LACs. (a) Courts within the boundaries of the Lachlan LAC: Court Process Issued (APVOs) Process Issued (ADVOs) Condobolin 38 47 Forbes 13 67 Lake Cargelligo 56 91 Parkes 33 211 Peak Hill 3 14 Total 143 430 (b) Courts within the boundaries of the Griffith LAC: Court Process Issued (APVOs) Process Issued (ADVOs) Griffith 55 146 Hillston 1 10 Leeton 41 205 Narrandera 18 68 West Wyalong 20 79 Total 135 508

(c) Courts within the boundaries of the Cootamundra LAC: Court Process Issued (APVOs) Process Issued (ADVOs) Cootamundra 31 48 Grenfell 2 6 Gundagai 6 8 3384 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Tumut 21 101 Young 36 77 Total 96 240 (d) Courts within the boundaries of the Wagga Wagga LAC: Court Process Issued(APVOs) Process Issued(ADVOs) Junee 10 34 Lockhart 0 1 Temora 13 24 Wagga Wagga 77 215 Total 100 274 (e) Courts within the boundaries of the Canobolas LAC: Court Process Issued (APVOs) Process Issued (ADVOs) Cowra 42 77 Orange 70 172 Total 112 249

*2389 DOWNSIZING SOIL CONSERVATION DIVISION—Mr Armstrong to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) What is the future for the 60 plus staff employed in the Soil Conservation division by the Department of Land and Water Conservation in NSW? (2) Are there any plans for the downsizing of this division? (3) Are there sufficient funds within the budget to maintain full staffing levels and all current programs and services? (4) Will the Minister announce a future directions statement for Soil Conservation? (5) What is the role of the Soil Conservation division in the various departmental reduction programs? (6) What is the role of the Soil Conservation division in the planning and environmental programs? (7) What is the role of the Soil Conservation division in the agricultural programs? (8) What is the role of Conservation division in the land environment programs? (9) What is the role of the Soil Conservation division in the national parks programs? (10) What is the role of the Soil conservation division in the department of public works projects?

Answer—

There is no Soil Conservation division, as such, within the Department of Land and Water Conservation. Mr Armstrong may be referring to the Soil Services business within the Department, which includes a soil conservation earthmoving operation, known as Soilworks. Soilworks operates 57 bulldozers across New South Wales and is engaged by both private and public clients, on a contract basis, to undertake planning and construction of earthworks for soil conservation and erosion control. In the main, these services involve individual property works for rural landholders or broader catchment management programs, but may extend to assisting with the soil conservation / erosion control input to a range of programs undertaken by other agencies. The future direction of the Department’s soil conservation earthmoving operation is currently under consideration and a proposal will be submitted to Cabinet in due course.

*2390 ONE MAN POLICE STATION—Mr Armstrong to the Minister for Police—

(1) How many shifts per fortnight is the Officer in charge of a one man police station expected to work? (2) How many shifts per fortnight is the Officer in charge of a one man police station expected to work under that responsibility? 3385 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Answer—

(1) to (2) I am advised by the Acting Deputy Commissioner (Field Operations) that the number and length of shifts may vary, based on the Police Service Award and flexible rostering. The Local Area Commander has the authority to deploy police resources in accordance with operational needs

*2391 DISTRICT COURT—Mr Piccoli to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

Will the District Court (criminal and / or civil) circuit continue to include Deniliquin in 2001?

Answer—

The District Court is currently not scheduled to sit in Deniliquin in 2001. The Chief Judge will continue to monitor the caseload at Deniliquin. If the caseload increases, he can arrange for the Court to sit at Deniliquin.

*2392 SATELLITE SERVICES FOR VISUAL MONITORING—Ms Seaton to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) Do any NSW Government Departments or Agencies in the Minister’s portfolio lease or pay for satellite services for visual monitoring of any land in NSW to aid land and water management, conservation or other environment data collection and service delivery? (2) What services are accessed? (3) What is the annual cost of these services? (4) How many times have satellite services been used in the six month period from: January – June 1999 June – December 1999 January – June 2000 June – December 2000 January – June 2001? (5) What information was gathered in each of those periods, and from what parts of NSW? (6) Who analysed or utilised this information in each period? (7) Were any reports produced from this information? If so by whom, and where are they available?

Answer—

(1) to (7) This question is identical to question number 2379 asked by Ms P. Seaton MP on 6 July 2001. I refer to the answer I provided to the previous question.

*2393 SATELLITE SERVICES—Ms Seaton to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Do any NSW Government Departments or Agencies in the Minister’s portfolio lease or pay for satellite services for visual monitoring of any land in NSW to aid land and water management, conservation or other environment data collection and service delivery? (2) What services are accessed? (3) What is the annual cost of these services? (4) How many times have satellite services been used in the six month period from January – June 1999 June – December 1999 January – June 2000 June – December 2000 January – June 2001 3386 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(5) What information was gathered in each of those periods, and from what parts of NSW? (6) Who analysed or utilised this information in each period? (7) Were any reports produced from this information? If so by whom, and where are they available?

Answer—

See previous answers to these questions in response to Question on Notice 2380.

*2394 EPPING—CASTLE HILL RAILWAY—Mr Richardson to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for

(1) Now that the Minister has conceded that he cannot meet the original schedule for building the Parramatta-Chatswood rail link, what is the Government’s timetable for completing its proposed Epping to Castle Hill railway line? (2) When will work commence on the proposed Epping to Castle Hill railway line? (3) When does the Minister expect the line to become operational? (4) Does the Government intend to extend this proposed railway line to Mungerie Park Regional Centre? (5) If so, when will work commence on this section of the railway? (6) When does the Minister expect the first train to pull into Mungerie Park station?

Answer—

(1) The Epping to Castle Hill railway link is discussed in the Government’s strategic transport plan, Action for Transport 2010. (2) to (3) The Honourable Member is well aware that development of the proposed rail link is presently in the initial planning phase. The Department of Transport, the Rail Infrastructure Corporation and the State Rail Authority are currently undertaking conceptual design studies. A construction timetable cannot be determined until detailed design studies and the environmental impact assessment process are completed. (4) Action for Transport 2010 indicates that to meet growth beyond 2010, a detailed study will be undertaken and a route reserved from Castle Hill to Rouse Hill (Mungerie Park Town Centre). (5) to (6) Refer to (4) above.

*2395 RESIDENTIAL LOTS—Mr Brogden to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

Regarding your statement on 6 June 2001 that a spot check revealed that there were more than 10,000 serviced residential lots in new greenfield subdivisions in Sydney: (1) Where are the 10,000 serviced residential lots available for purchase? (2) Is each one available for purchase right now?

Answer—

(1) Stocks of new fully serviced residential lots are made up of those that have been registered with separate title and are either vacant or are having a new house built on them. The June statement used data for the December 2000 stocks, made up of 8, 107 vacant lots and 3,764 lots under construction. They were distributed in the following numbers in these local government areas: Local Government Area Vacant Lots at December 2000 Lots under Construction at December 2000 Baulkham Hills 1559 832 Blacktown 1133 643 Camden 669 349 Campbelltown 548 301 3387 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Fairfield 409 164 Gosford 295 95 Hornsby 86 52 Liverpool 1448 851 Penrith 235 213 Pittwater 66 11 Sutherland 194 122 Warringah 58 27 Wyong 1407 104 TOTAL 8107 3764 (2) The serviced residential lots include lots available for sale, lots on which houses are being built for sale as a house & land package and lots held by builders or investors.

*2396 LAND RELEASE—Mr Brogden to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

Regarding your statement at the UDIA on 16 June 2001 that you would provide a 15 year certainty of land release: (1) What does this mean? (2) How many lots will be made available? (3) How much of this land is owned by Landcom?

Answer—

(1) A 15 year supply of land for housing is regarded as a desirable goal to minimise booms and busts. (2) This would depend on demand and the property market. (3) This will depend on commercial decisions.

*2397 VISUAL MONITORING OF LAND—Ms Seaton to the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) Do any NSW government departments or agencies in your portfolio lease or pay for satellite services for visual monitoring of any land in NSW to aid land and water management, conservation or other environmental data collection and service delivery? (2) What services are accessed? (3) What is the annual cost of these services? (4) How many times have satellite services been used in the six month period from January-June 1999 June-December 1999 January-June 2000 June-December 2000 January-June 2001? (5) What information was gathered in each of those periods, and from what parts of NSW? (6) Who analysed or utilised this information in each period? (7) Were there any reports produced from this information? If so by whom, and where are they available?

Answer—

(1) to (7) I refer to my previous answer to question 2378

*2398 MEDALLIONS—OLYMPICS VOLUNTEERS—Mrs Chikarovski to the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship— 3388 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(1) (a) Has he or the Government received any offers of assistance from the private sector to enable medallions to be given to all Olympic volunteers? (b) If so, what form of assistance was offered? Why did the Government not take up these offers? (c) Since 7 January 2001, have you reconsidered this issue, so as to allow the Government to make a contribution to the cost of minting the medallions? (d) How much surplus was returned to the people of NSW from the Olympic Games? Why wasn’t this amount used to offset the cost of minting the medallions? (e) How many letters or phone calls did you and your Government receive from volunteers raising this issue? (f) What additional steps are you considering to fully recognise the Olympic volunteers?

Answer—

(1) (a) to (f) The Government wanted a fitting tribute to the men and women who did us proud. That’s why the Government supported, contingent on the assistance of a sponsor, the proposal to strike a medallion to thank our volunteers. Unfortunately, I am advised that no offers by sponsors had been made to the Olympic Coordination Authority.

*2399 MINOR CAPITAL WORKS EXPENDITURE—Mrs Chikarovski to the Minister for Education and Training—

What was the breakdown by electorate for minor capital works expenditure, for the years 1995-2001?

Answer—

I am advised that to answer this question would substantially divert the resources of the Department of Education and Training away from the exercise of its core functions.

*2400 CASUAL TEACHERS—Mrs Chikarovski to the Minister for Education and Training—

How many school classes were cancelled from February 1 2001 until June 30 2001, because of a lack of casual teachers?

Answer—

The organisation of classes and casual teacher staffing arrangements in NSW government schools is carefully managed by principals. Principals have a range of options to cover unexpected teacher absences, including the temporary engagement of casual replacement staff. In some cases, principals may allocate the students of absent teachers to other classes to take advantage of the programs and expertise of other teachers in the school. The decision to engage a casual teacher or make other arrangements to cover a specific teacher absence rests with the school principal, taking into account the circumstances of the day, the availability of casual staff at short notice and other arrangements within other classes at the school. The Department of Education and Training does not hold centrally information on casual staffing arrangements for individual schools or school classes for the period February 1, 2001 to June 30, 2001. Such information is held by school principals. I am advised that to provide this information would substantially and unreasonably divert resources away from the exercise of the Department's core functions. The Department has implemented a wide range of strategies to assist principals to manage schools' needs for casual teachers. The Department's School Staffing Unit also works closely with principals to identify replacement teachers when needed. 3389 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

*2401 GOVERNMENT SCHOOL RETENTIONS RATE—Mrs Chikarovski to the Minister for Education and Training—

What was the retention rate for Years 7 to Year 12 in NSW government schools for each school district, on a yearly basis from 1995-2000?

Answer—

Actual retention rates are not compiled on a state or school district basis. To create actual retention rates it would be necessary to track each individual student from Year 7 to Year 12. This would be impossible to do retrospectively. Apparent retention rates for full-time students are compiled by the Australian Bureau of Statistics from state and territory enrolment data and these rates are published in Schools Australia.

*2402 SYDNEY TO GOULBURN RAIL TRANSPORT—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Is he aware that the CityRail Timetable shows that the weekend 8.59am train from Central to Campbelltown connects with the 9.54am train from Campbelltown to Goulburn? (2) Is he further aware that the two trains do not, in fact, connect? (3) Is he aware that CityRail staff have frequently been paying for passengers caught by this timetable error to catch a taxi from Campbelltown to Goulburn? (4) On how many occasions have CityRail staff paid for taxis between Campbelltown and Goulburn? (5) What is the cost to the taxpayer each occasion that a passenger is transported to Goulburn by taxi?

Answer—

The State Rail Authority advises me of the following: (1) Yes. (2) The Honourable Member's assertion that the trains are not timetabled to connect is incorrect. The 8.59am service departs Central at 8.59am and proceeds to Campbelltown via the East Hills line, arriving at 9.48am The connecting Goulburn service departs from Campbelltown at 9.54am, allowing 6 minutes for connections to be made. I am advised that there have been some occasional circumstances where the Central to Campbelltown service has experienced minor delays. Where possible, CityRail staff will hold the Campbelltown to Goulburn service to ensure the needs of the most number of passengers are met and that connections are made. Delays may occur for a number of reasons, such as vandalism, illegal/anti-social behaviour, suicides and fatalities and severe weather conditions. (3) CityRail staff have not been frequently paying for taxis between Campbelltown and Goulburn, again contrary to the Honourable Member's assertions. When disruptions occur which inconvenience passengers, CityRail staff may choose to provide alternative transport for customers, including via taxi or bus in order to minimise or alleviate any inconvenience. (4) to (5) CityRail performs these occasional transfers as part of its ongoing commitment to outstanding customer service. I am advised that there have been a minimal number of occasions where alternative transport arrangements have been necessary. I am advised by CityRail that there has been a minimal level of complaint received in relation to this issue. CityRail will continue to monitor this situation.

*2403 PENNANT HILLS HIGH SCHOOL FIRE—Mr Tink to the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What were the results of the investigation into the fire that destroyed one-third of Pennant Hills High School on Monday 11 June 2001? (2) Have allegations that the security guard on duty was asleep at the time of the fire been fully investigated and if so what were the results of this investigation? 3390 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(3) What are you doing to tighten up school security at Pennant Hills High School and other schools in the neighbouring area?

Answer—

The NSW Fire Brigade, Fire Investigation Unit, conducted an extensive investigation into the fire at Pennant Hills High School that occurred in the early hours of the morning on Monday June 11, 2001. The NSW Fire Brigade has supplied a comprehensive report to the NSW Coroner. A comprehensive investigation by the NSW Police Service and an internal investigation by representatives of the Department of Education and Training was undertaken to determine if the static guard, placed at the school prior to the fire, was asleep. There was no evidence to indicate that this officer was asleep. Following a fire at Pennant Hills High School on June 9, 2001, a static guard was placed at the school. Following a further fire in the early hours of the morning on Monday June 11, 2001, two static guards were placed at the school until June 24, 2001. In addition, a security contractor specialising in guard dog patrols was assigned to the district from June 12 until June 24, 2001, and has been re-deployed on a number of occasions during identified periods of increased risk. Additional patrols were also arranged for schools within the area during the school vacation period. Close monitoring of the electronic surveillance systems is continuing.

*2404 TICK CONTROL—Mr George to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water

(1) Is the Government committed to, and will it guarantee that it will not walk away from tick control in NSW? (2) Could he confirm or deny that cattle producers in this State, if their herds become infected with tick, will be obliged to clean up such infestations by their own devices? (3) If NSW Agriculture staff are required in a supervisory capacity then will those staff be charged out at an hourly rate to the stockowner? (4) If this policy is to be implemented then could he advise as to what rate will be charged to the stockowner? (5) Is he currently considering altering regulations to permit NSW stockowners to “blood” their cattle? If so, could he spell out in detail the consequences of such action? (6) In detail, what are all the costs relating to the Tick Control Program over the last financial year together with a comparison of costs say for the year 1983/84? (7) What effect will the Standard Definitions and Rules relating to State boundaries have on the Cattle Tick Control Program in NSW? (8) What are the qualifications and practical credentials of the NSW Agriculture officials driving the agenda for cattle tick control in this State?

Answer—

(1) The Government is committed to achieving freedom status from cattle tick for all of NSW. The Government will maintain an effective Queensland border service to prevent as far as possible incursion of ticks from Queensland. In addition there will continue to be effective surveillance to detect ticks wherever they occur and a capability to eradicate them. The Government will not walk away from cattle tick control in NSW. (2) Owners of tick infested herds will be required to pay for chemical used. This requirement will be phased in starting with 25% in 2001 rising to 100% in 2004. This will bring ticks into line with all other disease control programs. Chemicals will continue to be purchased by NSW Agriculture at the most advantageous price. (3) In some circumstances, producers will be charged for the supervising activities of departmental staff. This only applies where an initial program has failed due to the producer’s failure to meet all 3391 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

necessary protocols. The decision on applying this charge will now be made by the Chairman of the Board of Tick Control with the advice of his board. (4) The charge rate for regulatory officers in this capacity is $55 per hour including GST, which of course can be claimed as an input credit. (5) The Cattle Tick Advisory Committee which comprises the best scientific knowledge available on tick control has advised me that there is no valid scientific reason to prevent producers using tick fever vaccine on cattle if they wish to. As there are no untoward consequences I have agreed to lift this prohibition. On a positive note it will open up opportunities for NSW producers to market stock in tick infested Queensland where vaccination is required. (6) Because of the success of the cattle tick program in eradicating ticks over the last decade it is not relevant to compare costs. The Government spent $5.7 million in direct salary and operating costs in the 2000/2001 financial year. This is more than any Government in Australia commits to any specific disease control program. (7) All national disease control programs are governed by Standard Definitions and Rules (SD&Rs) assessed and approved by Australia’s State and Commonwealth Chief Veterinary Officers. They ensure that all jurisdictions implement the same standards and procedures. This ensures that areas of equal status do not have artificial barriers, which unnecessarily impede orderly safe movement of livestock. Through this process SD&Rs have been developed and approved for cattle tick control. Before any implementation there will be widespread consultation with industry and agencies both in NSW and Queensland. Until these are agreed upon I am unable to answer this question. (8) The Program Leader, Program Manager and the Chairman of the Board of Tick Control are all veterinarians with postgraduate qualifications and extensive experience in successful disease control.

*2405 WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE TAXIS—Mr Barr to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) How many Wheelchair Accessible Taxi licences have been issued by the Department of Transport? (2) How many Wheelchair Accessible Taxi licences have been taken up (ie., how many Wheelchair Accessible Taxis are actually on the road)?

Answer—

(1) 358. (2) The Department does not keep statistics on the number of taxis on the road as this number is constantly varying. It is aware that a proportion of taxis are taken off the road from time to time for operational reasons. However, it is also aware of a number of Wheelchair Accessible Taxis being operated on unrestricted licences, increasing the number of these taxis available.

*2406 PROGRAM FOR GRIFFITH HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Piccoli to the Minister for Education and Training—

Would the Minister please advise when funds will be provided to complete the hot spot air cooling program for Griffith High School?

Answer—

Stage 1 of Griffith High School’s ‘hot spots’ in permanent buildings, as nominated by the school, were air cooled in the 1997/1998 Air Cooling Program at a cost of $171,206. Stage 2 of the air cooling of ‘hot spots’ in permanent buildings at Griffith High School will be taken into consideration for inclusion in the 2002/2003 Air Cooling Program. The Properties School Service Unit, Wollongong, will keep the school principal informed of developments in this matter. 3392 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

*2407 CRONULLA POLICE STATION—Mr Kerr to the Minister for Police—

(1) How many police were attached to Cronulla Police Station as at 30 June 1999? (2) How many police were attached to Cronulla Police Station as at 30 June 2001?

Answer—

(1) to (2) Police are allocated to Local Area Commands, not individual Police Stations. The deployment of staff at individual Police Stations may vary on a daily basis according to community policing needs.

*2408 CONFISCATION OF CRIMINAL ASSETS—Mr Stoner to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

In relation to the operation of the Criminal Assets Recovery Act 1990: (1) Is the property of persons convicted of major drug crime being confiscated under the Act? (2) If so, is there a register pertaining to such confiscations? (3) What is the value of property and goods seized since the Act commenced in 1990? (4) Is such property and goods sold and made unavailable to the person/s from whom it was seized?

Answer—

The Criminal Assets Recovery Act 1990 is administered by the Minister for Police and this question should be directed to him.

*2409 SOUTH WEST ROCKS SCHOOL SITE—Mr Stoner to the Minister for Education and Training—

What is the location and the status of the land you referred to when you visited South West Rocks on 29 July 1996 and stated that you had set a block of land aside to build a high school?

Answer—

On July 29, 1996 I officially opened new classrooms at the South West Rocks Public School. Kempsey Shire Council took this opportunity to meet with me and formally present a submission in support of a high school. Council’s submission identified two potential Crown Land sites, one located at Belle O’Connor and Bruce Field Streets and the other on the southern side of Gordon Young Drive. Kempsey Shire Council was subsequently advised that the demographic justification for the establishment of a high school at South West Rocks is some years away. The current demographic trends do not support the need for a secondary school in the foreseeable future. Preliminary investigations of vacant crown land at Belle O’Connor and Bruce Field Streets were undertaken. However, it is far from certain that this land would be suitable given its environmental sensitivity. Should it be decided to proceed with a new school at South West Rocks, this site and any other possible sites will be investigated.

*2410 SOUTH WEST ROCKS SCHOOL SITE—Mr Stoner to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for

What is the status of Crown Land located at Belle O’Connor and Bruce Field Streets, South West Rocks, which was identified in 1996 as the site of a future high school? 3393 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Answer—

I refer to the answer provided by the Hon John Aquilina MP, Minister for Education and Training, to Question No 2409, concerning land at South West Rocks.

*2411 PACIFIC HIGHWAY UPGRADES—Mr Oakeshott to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

What is the timeframe for the Pacific Highway upgrades at: (1) Taree to Coopernook? (2) Coopernook to Moorland? (3) Johns River to Kew? (4) Kew to Herons Creek?

Answer—

(1) Tenders are currently being invited for the construction of Stage 1 of the Taree to Coopernook upgrading project, including the Coopernook Bypass. Construction is expected to commence in 2002. (2) Community representations from the display of the Environmental Impact Statement have been assessed and the Representations Report is being finalised. A commencement date for construction has not yet been finalised. The starting date will be determined as part of the process of finalising the 10 year program. (3) Investigations are currently underway for the upgrade of the Pacific Highway between Moorland and Herons Creek, which encompasses the two areas of Johns River to Kew and Kew to Herons Creek. Route options were on public display from 11 May until 1 June 2001 and comments received are currently being considered prior to the determination of a preferred route. A commencement date for construction has not yet been finalised. The starting date will be determined as part of the process of finalising the 10 year program. (4) See answer to (3) above.

*2412 MID NORTH COAST AREA HEALTH SERVICE—Mr Oakeshott to the Minister for Health—

(1) How much funding from the Mid North Coast Area Health Service has been spent on the Oral Health Fee for Service program in the health service area? (2) How many people are still on the existing waiting lists in the Hastings and Manning areas? (3) When does the Government expect those people on the list to be seen by a community health dentist?

Answer—

(1) For 2001/02 the total enhancement funding for the Mid North Coast Area Health Service is $588,000. (2)to (3) Public dental services are administered across six state networks, not on an area basis. Disaggregated data is not available. The decision by the Commonwealth Government in 1997 to abolish the Commonwealth Dental Program has had serious repercussions on the delivery of public oral health care. It is estimated that, on an annual basis, 270,000 people in NSW were unable to be treated because of the cessation of the Commonwealth Program. In April 2000, the State Government announced a $33 million, three-year program which will enable the treatment of an estimated additional 30,000 patients in 2000/01 increasing to an additional 200,000 patients in 2002/03. In addition, funding, for the first time, will be allocated on a resource distribution formula basis. 3394 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

*2413 EMPLOYMENT OF DENTAL THERAPISTS—Mr Torbay to the Minister for Health—

(1) Why are dental hygienists allowed to be employed by private practice while dental therapists, with a higher level of training, are not permitted to be employed in private practice? Why haven’t dental therapists been given the same access to employment as dental hygienists? (2) Why is the Government allowing dental hygienists, who were not trained in NSW, to take dental auxiliary positions in the private sector, which should also be available to the NSW dental therapists? (3) Why won’t the NSW Government honour its promise of employment to the dental therapists they have trained? (4) Why is the NSW general public being denied the services of these dental therapists who have been highly trained at great expense to the NSW community? (5) Given that there is a growing demand for trained dental auxiliaries in the private sector yet an acute shortage of trained personnel available to be employed legally by private practice, why won’t the NSW Government rectify this situation when reviewing the NSW Dental Act? (6) Why hasn’t the NSW Government realised cost savings to the general public by following the lead of Victoria and Western Australia who have removed the workplace restrictions that were limiting their dental therapists to the public sector?

Answer—

(1) to (6) The provisions of the Dentists Act 1989 (NSW) and associated General Regulations 1996 restrict the employment of dental therapists to the public sector. A new Dental Practice Bill 2001 (NSW) has recently been introduced into Parliament. The restrictions on employment of dental therapists in the public sector remain, although provisions will be made for the recognition of the titles of dental therapist and dental hygienists which will allow for the registration of these professional groups. Dental therapists and dental hygienists perform different roles and clinical services within the dental profession. Dental therapists treat school aged children only. They perform clinical work such as fillings and extractions and preventive measures. Dental hygienists treat adults. They perform mainly preventive hygiene treatment, but do not provide clinical services. Demand for dental hygienists in the private sector is driven by competitive market forces, over which the Government appropriately does not seek to have influence. Employment opportunities for dental therapists in the public sector currently exist, with a number of vacancies in rural and metropolitan Area Health Services.

*2414 SENIORS ONLINE STRATEGY—Mr Torbay to the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) How long will people in non-metropolitan New South Wales have to wait until support is made available to grassroots driven seniors computer clubs in Northern New South Wales through the Seniors Online Strategy? (2) Why does the Seniors Online Strategy only appear to concentrate on adapting older people to technology and not on ensuring a more senior friendly technology environment within New South Wales? (3) Has the Government introduced a process to complement the Seniors Online Strategy to ensure that all Government employees and consultants, who are responsible for the implementation of technology based delivery of Government services, are implementing world best practice in trans- generations and universal design? (4) Why has the Government chosen to base the responsibility for the Seniors Online Strategy within the NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care, which has minimal access with other State Government Departments? 3395 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(5) What is the NSW Government doing to ensure that the information technology industry in the State is aware of, and responding to, the growing market for senior friendly technology based products and services not only within New South Wales, but also across Australia and elsewhere in the world?

Answer—

(1) The Seniors Online Strategy was launched earlier this year, and received funding of $1.7 million in the May State Budget to promote the benefits of seniors using computers and the Internet, and to work towards removing the barriers which stop older people accessing information technology. A key element of the Seniors Online Strategy is the Hands On program which provides computer training and support for older people across NSW. A small number of pilot projects under this Program have already commenced in the Western Sydney and Central Coast areas of the State. The pilot projects have been funded in this initial phase to determine what models work best in two regions of the State which have large numbers of people over the age of 60, and to establish some benchmarks for future funding rounds of the Program. After an analysis of the success of the pilot projects has been completed in late 2001, submissions will be invited from interested community- based organisations around the State to undertake access and training projects specifically for seniors. Microsoft Australia is also supporting the Strategy by providing $500,000 worth of software and licenses over the next three years to organisations that are training seniors in the use of computers. On the advice of the Department of Ageing Disability and Home Care, Microsoft has already provided software to two seniors computer clubs in the Northern area of NSW. The Tamworth and District Seniors Computer Club has recently received $9,012 worth of software, and the Guyra Adult Learning Association has received $21,020 worth of software. (2) The Premiers Forum on Ageing, which was held on the issue of Seniors and Information Technology in early 2001, was very valuable in providing the Government with many ideas that could be pursued under the Strategy. Among the ideas that were promoted by older people and those who work with older people in this area, were ways in which the IT industry could make their products more accessible. Issues such as cost, design, technical support in shops, computer installation in the home, and ongoing technical support were all discussed. There was also a strong feeling that older people should be consulted more on the design of hardware, software and web site content. All of these issues will be taken up and pursued with the IT industry over the next 3 years. As a first step, it is proposed that the Strategy use the NSW Seniors Card to encourage more IT businesses to offer special deals for seniors, which in turn may encourage a more ‘seniors-friendly’ approach by software and hardware vendors. (3) The Seniors Online Strategy forms part of the NSW Government’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Skills Action Plan, which is the responsibility of the Office of Information Technology. The Office has produced the publication “Providing Information and Services Using the Internet: A Guideline for NSW Government Agencies”. The guidelines state that accessible content should be developed as a standard feature of web pages, rather than being considered as a specialised feature for people with disabilities. Accessibility features improve access for all people not only those with disabilities. A copy of the Guidelines can be accessed from the OIT website at – http://www.oit.nsw.gov.au. (4) One of the main functions of the Department of Ageing Disability, and Home Care is to provide advice to NSW Government Agencies on policy and program developments which affect older people. The Department is also responsible for the coordination and monitoring of the Government’s ageing policy, the Healthy Ageing Framework. To date, collaborative partnerships have been established between 21 Government agencies and the Department to implement the Framework. The Department also administers the NSW Seniors Card scheme. It is therefore very well placed to provide government agencies with a direct link to the seniors of NSW, and can help publicise their achievements and current activities, as well as encourage transactions with them. The Department is also represented on the ICT Skills Cross Agency Implementation Working Group, convened by the Office of Information Technology. (5) The Seniors Online Strategy is using the NSW Seniors Card as the primary vehicle to engage, encourage and enthuse older people to use computers and to go online. With nearly 90% of all 3396 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

people over the age of 60 in NSW having a Seniors Card, it is in a prime position to attract businesses wishing to engage with this market. In particular, the new Seniors Card web site to be launched later this year as part of the Strategy, will act as a focal point both for older people and for businesses and government agencies wishing to interact with seniors. This will be helped by the fact that the Government has the world’s largest software company, Microsoft, as a partner in the implementation of the Strategy. This will put NSW in a very good position to learn from IT markets nationally and internationally as we progressively implement the Strategy. The Government will also be using every opportunity afforded to it through the Strategy to encourage the IT industry to increase the range and availability of communication and information technology products and services to older people in New South Wales over the next three years.

*2415 NEW ENGLAND AREA HEALTH SERVICES—Mr Torbay to the Minister for Health—

(1) Can he advise why it takes New England Area Health more than 20 weeks to process claims for assistance under the Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme (IPTAAS)? (2) What action is being taken to expedite payments to people in need? (3) Can he advise why people with gum disease and in urgent need of removal of teeth under anaesthetic have to wait more than 12 months for appropriate treatment from New England Area Health? (4) What action has he taken to address the dental crisis in the area administered by New England Area Health?

Answer—

(1) Approximately 50% of claims for financial assistance under IPTAAS are either incomplete or involve complex issues where doctors, specialists, social workers, travel and accommodation providers need to be contacted, as well as the patient. There is also an increasing number of advance payments for travel expenses for people who can demonstrate financial hardship. All claims need to be assessed properly and fairly. (2) A new IPTAAS Coordinator was appointed on 6 August 2001. An additional full-time Aboriginal designated administration officer’s position has been also been created to assist with the workflow. The IPTAAS office is also reviewing work practices to identify any procedures impeding the timely assessment of claims and to develop strategies to improve response times. Administrative practises have been implemented to assist those with genuine financial need and those who need repeated journeys to a specialist. (3) The regrettable decision of the Commonwealth Government in 1997 to abolish the Commonwealth Dental Program has had serious repercussions on the delivery of public oral health care, particularly on rural NSW, and has caused hardship for the elderly, the unemployed and other vulnerable groups in the community. The New England Area Health Service has received $144,000 in dental enhancement funding this financial year and the Area Health Service is assessing options for the best use of this funding. Part of this funding will support the implementation of the NSW Oral Health Fee for Service Scheme to improve access to oral health care for those who are eligible for publicly funded oral health care by offering them dental health care through participating private dental practitioners. (4) The NEAHS is also considering options for the Dentist from Armidale to be given operating time at other Hospitals in the northern part of the Area, which will particularly benefit residents from Inverell, Moree and Glen Innes. The NEAHS intends to recruit an additional dentist to the Area to provide services to Inverell, Glen Innes and Tenterfield and to alleviate the waiting list at the Armidale Dental Clinic.

*2416 TWOFOLD BAY AND HINTERLAND PLAN—Mr Webb to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

Regarding the Twofold Bay and Hinterland Plan: 3397 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(1) Can you advise of the situation of the Boydtown development that originally was due for gazettal in 1998? (2) Why has the proposed further development of Boydtown been held up? (3) As it has had prior approvals and is in keeping with the tourism potential of the Twofold Bay and Eden area what are the planning objections holding up the project? (4) As the development also has historical attributes and is located in an area already developed can you advise what assistance the developer has received from the appropriate planning bodies to further the project? (5) When would you expect the development would gain approval and be able to commence?

Answer—

(1) The planning controls for the Boydtown development are contained within Bega Valley draft Local Environmental Plan 1987 – Amendment No. 97. That draft plan is with the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning for a report to me. (2) I have been advised that the proposal conflicts with elements of the Government’s Coastal Policy and I want to be assured that it will only proceed if there is no compromise of significant coastal values or planning principles. (3) As for (2). (4) The Department of Urban Affairs and Planning is reviewing the Council’s draft local environmental plan in the light of the State Government’s Coastal Policy. The Heritage Office has contributed to maintaining the historic buildings and relics on the site. The only existing modern development in the area is a caravan park, half a dozen houses and a marina basin. (5) The development is under review by the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning which will report to me. The timing of the report is subject to the outcomes of discussions between senior officers of the Department, Bega Valley Shire Council and the developer. It is not possible to be definitive on the timing under these circumstances. My decision will be dependent on a range of factors, but will reflect this Government’s determination to protect and manage coastline.

*2417 FISAP ASSISTANCE—Mr Webb to the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) How many former timber industry employees have been assisted through FISAP? (2) How many of these owned their own homes? (3) What kind of assistance is available to a person relocated under FISAP who cannot sell their in pervious their town/location? (4) If a short fall between the rent received on the property and the mortgage payments exists does the program pick this shortfall up?

Answer—

(1) Under the FISAP 629 displaced timber workers have been approved under the Worker Assistance component of the FISAP. (2) The Forestry Structural Adjustment Unit (FSAU) does not collect data on home ownership at the time of redundancy. However, the FISAP has assisted 119 displaced timber workers and their families to relocate to take up new employment, and assisted 70 of these to purchase new homes. FISAP assistance of up to $20,000 is available for – · the cost of a removalist to relocate client’s belongings to the new location; · helping with the cost of rental bond and with rent assistance; · electricity, gas and telephone connection fees; · a contribution towards initial temporary accommodation; · storage costs for clients not moving all belongings at once; 3398 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

· mail redirection; · school uniforms for children. In addition to the above, a 10% house deposit to a maximum of $10,000, for clients purchasing a home is available and clients also receive financial assistance for · legal costs for the house purchase; · pre-purchase costs (eg pest and building inspections); · bank charges to establish mortgage; · building insurance as per loan conditions. (3) Provisions under the FISAP for clients who are home owners relocating to new employment include financial assistance for · mortgage assistance for up to 3 months; · real estate agent fees relating to sale of property; · associated legal costs; · bank charges for terminating home loan; · garden maintenance while property is on the market. In addition financial assistance is available to help with costs in relation to the client’s new accommodation including · the cost of a removalist to relocate client’s belongings to the new location; · assistance with the cost of rental bond and with rent assistance; · electricity, gas and telephone connection fees; · storage costs for clients not moving all belongings at once; · 10% deposit to a maximum of $10,000 for a new home in the new area. (4) The Worker Assistance guidelines do not provide “top-up” mortgage payments where rental income is less than mortgage payments. There is provision under the Worker Assistance guidelines to assist workers by providing rent assistance for up to six months in their new location. This payment is the difference between their previous mortgage payments and the new rent amount. These provisions were jointly developed between the NSW and Commonwealth Governments.

*2418 RESPITE CARE FOR YOUNGER PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY—Mr Webb to the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) Can the Minister advise what future plans are in place for the property known as “Elm Way” located in Jerrabomberra, which had been standing vacant for sometime? (2) Can the Minister advise when a respite care facility for people with a development disability and/or younger persons with disabilities will be reinstated for the families and carers in the Southern Highlands zone? (3) When will service providers to these people and their families be able to access a State service to provide respite for their clients rather than constantly competing for places in facilities in the ACT at great expense? (4) Can the Minister provide a cost comparison for utilising the property in Jerrabomberra as opposed to NSW taxpayers’ payments to interstate services?

(1) As part of the Devolution Program, my Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care is working with the residents of Strathallen in Goulburn, and their families and advocates, to develop new community living arrangements. A number of those involved have stated their wish for residents at Strathallen to move closer to their families, and these plans are underway. (2) In the 1999/2000 financial year a total of $4.6 million recurrent was allocated across the state for new respite services for people with disabilities and their families and carers. The Southern Highlands local planning area receives over $1M in recurrent respite dollars that are for use in a variety of settings. 3399 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Consideration is being given to the use of a cottage at Strathallen for respite for people with a disability in the area. In response to the collaborative effort of the Bega Local Community, capital funding of $430,000 has also been made available to Bega Valley Council for the construction of a respite facility in the Bega Shire. When complete, the facility will be in a position to offer planned overnight respite, 24 hour care and emergency respite services with priority to families living within a 2 hour radius, on the South Coast and in the Monaro area. (3) See Answers 1 and 2 above. (4) It is estimated that the cost to Government of a comparable service in NSW is at least equivalent. The Government remains committed to ensuring there is sufficient flexible respite available within the system so families can access the kind of respite they need, when and where they need it, including making better use of out of home respite in a choice of settings.

*2419 SOUTH WEST SYDNEY AREA DENTAL WAITING LISTS—Mrs Skinner to the Minister for

How many people are on the waiting list for dental care in the South Western Sydney Area Health Service in the categories: · Adult General · Child · Dentures · Orthodontics and how long is the longest wait in each category?

Answer—

Public dental services are administered across six state networks, not on an area basis. Disaggregated data is not available. The decision by the Commonwealth Government in 1997 to abolish the Commonwealth Dental Program has had serious repercussions on the delivery of public oral health care. It is estimated that, on an annual basis, 270,000 people in NSW were unable to be treated because of the cessation of the Commonwealth Program. In April 2000, the State Government announced a $33 million, three-year program which will enable the treatment of an estimated additional 30,000 patients in 2000/01 increasing to an additional 200,000 patients in 2002/03. In addition, funding, for the first time, will be allocated on a resource distribution formula basis.

*2420 NORTHERN RIVERS DENTAL WAITING LISTS—Mrs Skinner to the Minister for Health—

How many people are on the waiting list for dental health care in the Northern Rivers Area Health Service in the categories: · Adult General · Child · Dentures · Orthodontics and how long is the longest wait in each category?

Answer—

It is estimated that, on an annual basis, 270,000 people in NSW were unable to be treated because of the cessation of the Commonwealth Program. In April 2000, the State Government announced a $33 million, three-year program which will enable the treatment of an estimated additional 30,000 patients in 2000/01 increasing to an additional 200,000 patients in 2002/03. In addition, funding, for the first time, will be allocated on a resource distribution formula basis.

*2421 NORTH SYDNEY AREA DENTAL LISTS—Mrs Skinner to the Minister for Health—

How many people are on the waiting list for dental health care in the North Sydney Area Health Service in the categories: · Adult General · Child · Dentures · Orthodontics and how long is the longest wait in each category?

Answer—

*2422 MACQUARIE AREA DENTAL WAITING LISTS—Mr Souris to the Minister for Health—

What is the number of public dental patients on the waiting list in the Macquarie Area Health Service and what is the longest wait for these patients in the categories of: (a) Adult General (b) Child (c) Dentures (d) Orthodontics?

Answer—

*2423 NEW ENGLAND DENTAL WAITING LISTS—Mr Souris to the Minister for Health—

How many people are on the waiting list for dental health care in the New England Area Health Service in the categories: (a) Adult General (b) Child (c) Dentures (d) Orthodontics? and how long is the longest wait in each category?

Answer—

*2424 HUNTER AREA DEN TAL WAITING LISTS—Mr Souris to the Minister for Health—

How many people are on the waiting list for dental health care in the Hunter Area Health Service in the categories: (a) Adult General (b) Child (c) Dentures (d) Orthodontics? and how long is the longest wait in each category?

Answer—

*2425 JERILDERIE RURAL TRANSACTION CENTRE—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Transport, and

(1) Has the RTA been approached to participate in a Rural Transaction Centre to be established in Jerilderie? (2) If so, what has been the RTA’s response? (3) If the RTA’s response was negative, why? (4) Does the RTA have criteria concerning participation in Rural Transaction Centres? 3402 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(5) If so, what is the criteria?

Answer—

(1) The RTA has received a letter from the Council of the Shire of Jerilderie regarding the provisions of RTA Services through the Jerilderie Rural Transaction Centre (RTC). (2) The RTA advised Jerilderie Council that it is committed to utilising Government Access Centres as service providers in rural and regional areas, which is an initiative of the NSW Government, currently managed by the RTA, to provide a range of State Government services and information from one outlet. The RTA advised that Jerilderie will be considered under the Government Access expansion plans, however, considering the criteria for establishing a Government Access Centre and the availability of RTA Services within 35 kms at Finley, Jerilderie was likely to be a priority for the next expansion round. (3) The expansion of the Government Access Program is based on the Premier’s Department Guidelines for Delivering Shop-Front Services in Rural NSW. These guidelines outline criteria to evaluate priorities for access which includes a distance of 80 kms to access services, reducing to 50 kms if there are a number of factors that significantly inhibit access. Under the Guidelines, as Jerilderie is within 35 kms of Finley, it is unlikely to be considered a priority for the establishment of a Government Access Centre. (4) to (5) Where an RTA itinerant site requires premises for regular visits, local arrangements are made to determined suitable accommodation which can include an RTC. However, for any new agency arrangements, the RTA is committed to utilising the Government Access network as service providers in rural and regional areas. The principles of the Government Access Program include the utilisation of existing State Government infrastructure and staff, wherever possible. This enables the Program to build upon existing resources and support structures to create an efficient and sustainable local service. Where suitable premises are not available options can be explored with Rural Transaction Centres. Through the Government Access Program Operations Group, the RTA is working with other programs such as RTC’s to consider planning issues and identify synergies between projects with similar goals. The aim of the Government Access Program is to work flexibly with other organisations to meet the service delivery needs of local communities without reducing existing services or competing with community based organisations. Where suitable state government infrastructure is not available, Government Access services can either be delivered by state government staff on an outreach basis or some basic services can be contracted out to an appropriate local organisation. In either of these models , RTC’s can be considered as a potential location and the Government Access Program Operations Group is sharing information with the Commonwealth mangers of the RTC program regarding partnership opportunities.

*2426 BUCKETTS WAYS SIGNAGE—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for

(1) Has the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) commenced the upgrade of the Bucketts Way? (2) If so, have the RTA erected signs on the Bucketts Way concerning the upgrade? (3) If so, how many signs have been erected? (4) If so, is the information on the signs correct? (5) If not, what is incorrect about the signs? (6) If not, will the signs be corrected? (7) If so, when will they be corrected? (8) What has been the total cost of the erection of the signs on the Bucketts Way? (9) What additional costs will be incurred if any sign has to be corrected? 3403 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Answer—

(1) The upgrading of the Bucketts Way is being managed by three Councils: Great Lakes Shire Council, Gloucester Shire Council and Greater Taree City Council. (2) The RTA has not erected signs on the Bucketts Way concerning the upgrade. It is understood that the signs were supplied by Gloucester Shire Council and erected by the roadwork contractor. (3) See Answer (2) above. (4) to (5) The RTA has been advised that there was a spelling error with the word “Bucketts” on the signs. (6) to (7) The signs were corrected in September 2001. (8) As the signs were supplied by Gloucester Shire Council and erected by the roadwork contractor, the RTA is unaware of the cost involved. (9) It is understood that the manufacturer of the signs will bear the cost of correcting the spelling.

*2427 BONUS BOOK SCHEME—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Small Business, and Minister for

(1) Does Tourism NSW have particular criteria concerning individual business participation in the “Touring by Car New South Wales” Bonus Book Scheme? (2) If so, what are the criteria for such business participation? (3) Have all NSW tourism operators been advised of the operation of the scheme? (4) If not, why? (5) Does the Bonus Book Scheme operate throughout all NSW? (6) If not, why? (7) If not, which areas does it operate in?

Answer—

(1) to (7) The criteria for inclusion in the Touring by Car bonus book is to provide a value added offer for the bonus book that, if possible, does not involve a three night or longer stay. Participation is free of charge. Information on Touring by Car existing and upcoming routes is communicated by Tourism New South Wales to the Regional Tourism Organisations and local tourist associations. The operators contacted are on the existing touring routes or within 50kms of that route. As new routes are developed the Regional Tourism Organisations and local tourist associations will be contacted, and through them, operators invited to participate. Potential industry partners receive a letter and a follow up call inviting them to participate. The Touring by Car program was launched in February 2000. To date the following routes – with bonus books – have been launched: South Coast Drive – includes Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla, Sapphire Coast Pacific Coast Touring Route – Sydney to Brisbane via Pacific Highway The Explorers Way – Blue Mountains, Hunter and Explorer Country Kosciuszko Alpine Way – Sydney to Melbourne via Kosciuszko Alpine Way New England Highway – Sydney to Brisbane via New England Highway The Waterfall Way scenic drive promotes Coffs Harbour to Armidale via Dorrigo and a Touring by Car brochure promotes the Federation Towns of New South Wales – Tenterfield, Bathurst and Corowa. These do not have bonus books.

*2428 SOUTHERN AREA HEALTH SERVICES—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Health—

How many nursing staff were employed by Southern Area Health Service at Goulburn Base Hospital: (a) during 1995? (b) during 1996? (c) during 1997? 3404 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(d) during 1998? (e) during 1999? (f) during 2000? (g) on 1 July 2001?

Answer—

On 1 July 2001 Goulburn Base Hospital had 105.9 FTE nursing staff with an additional 4.2 FTE Vacancies. In 1995 the nursing staff levels were 115.2 FTE. The difference in nursing staff levels between 1995 and 2001 are due to the refurbishment of the maternity unit and the reduction in bed numbers as a result. Further, an additional staff member was funded on a short-term basis as part of the waiting list reduction strategy.

*2429 INTERNET ACCESS FOR HIGH SCHOOLS—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) How many internet access lines do the students at Yass High School have access to during their Computing Studies classes? (2) What is the capacity of each line? (3) What is the average size of each class? (4) Does each student in these classes have access to a computer? (5) How many students are required to access the internet at the same time? (6) Is it true that students often have to wait for as long as 20 minutes to download a page because of insufficient line capacity? (7) What action does he intend to take to rectify this situation?

Answer—

(1) to (7) Yass High School was connected via a Telstra ISDN data line in December 1998. This provides a permanent digital connection to the Department of Education and Training’s network. The Department is currently investigating methods of improving school access to the network.

5 SEPTEMBER 2001

(Paper No. 107)

*2430 SYDNEY DRINKING WATER—Ms Seaton to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What correspondence has the Sydney Catchment Authority received from: (a) Wingecarribee Shire Council (b) Department of Land and Water Conservation (c) National Parks and Wildlife Service regarding a subdivision of Glow Worm Glen Estate in the catchment of Dimmocks Creek near Bundanoon? (2) What assessment, if any, has SCA undertaken into the potential impacts of this development on Sydney’s drinking water?

Answer—

(1) to (2) The Sydney Catchment Authority advised me that it has not received correspondence from these agencies on this matter. This development is not subject to State Environment Planning Policy Number 58 and therefore the Sydney Catchment Authority is not required to provide concurrence. 3405 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

*2431 POLICE STATION RESOURCING—Mr Armstrong to the Minister for Police—

(1) How many shifts per fortnight is the Officer in charge of a one man police station expected to work when on duty at the station under his responsibility? (2) How many shifts per fortnight is the Officer in charge of a one man police station expected to work when on duty at a station located in an adjoining major centre?

Answer—

I am advised by the Acting Deputy Commissioner (Field Operations) that the number and length of shifts may vary, based on the Police Service Award and flexible rostering. The Local Area Commander has the authority to deploy police resources in accordance with operational needs.

*2432 TEACHER HOUSING AUTHORITY REVIEW—Mr Armstrong to the Minister for Education and

(1) When will the Teacher Housing Authority (THA) Review of the policy relating to the provision of furniture in the Authority’s ‘villa units’ be completed? (2) When will the outcome of the review be made public? (3) How many THA properties are planned for construction during the 2001-2002 financial year?

Answer—

(1) The Teacher Housing Authority (THA) review of the policy relating to the provision of furniture in the Authority’s ‘villa units’ has been completed. The Authority decided to rescind the decision to phase out the provision of furniture in villa units. (2) The THA wrote to all interested stakeholders advising of the decision by August 31, 2001. (3) 24 (7 houses and 17 villa units).

*2433 SUPPLY OF ALCOHOL TO MINORS—Mr Armstrong to the Minister for Police—

(1) In view of the growing incidence of offences, does he recognise the need to keep statistical records on the number of charges laid against parents for the supply of alcohol to their children aged under 18 years? (2) In view of the growing incidence of offences, does he recognise the need to keep statistical records on the number of charges laid against persons for the supply of alcohol to youth under the age of 18 years at sporting and/or social functions? (3) To allow for the upward or downwards trends in relation to these charges to be monitored, will he put in place a system to gather statistical data to assist in the development of strategies to combat this serious problem, as no such system currently exists? (4) Has he implemented any State-wide strategies aimed at addressing the problem? (5) If not, will he undertake to develop strategies in consultation with his Local Area Commanders across the State?

Answer—

(1) to (4) I am advised infringement notices issued under the provisions of the Liquor Act are monitored by Police. The Hon Member may be assured that Local Area Commanders are responsible for using intelligence to develop appropriate localised strategies to detect and deter this type of activity in their Commands.

*2434 AVALON PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr Brogden to the Minister for Education and Training—

Are there any plans to upgrade and/or extend the hall at Avalon Public School? 3406 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Answer—

Avalon Public School currently has a communal hall facility. The size of the hall at the school is consistent with the Primary School Facilities Standard.

*2435 SCHOOL AIRCONDITIONING—Mrs Chikarovski to the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) (a) How many demountable school rooms were installed with airconditioning in November 1998, during the Christmas school break of 1998-9, the first half of 1999, the second half of 1999, the first half of 2000, the second of 2000 and the first half of 2001? (b) How many non-demountable school rooms were installed with airconditioning in November 1998, during the Christmas school break of 1998-9, the first half of 1999, the second half of 1999, the first half of 2000, the second half of 2000 and the first half of 2001?

Answer—

Air-conditioning for demountable and non-demountable classrooms is provided for in the Department’s Annual Capital Works Budget. The number of rooms which have been air-conditioned during this period is determined by the annual budget allocation.

*2436 STATE CORONER—DETERMINATION—Mr Hartcher to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Has the State Coroner made a determination concerning the death of Norma Hall? (2) If so, what was the determination? (3) If not, when is the determination due to be finalis ed?

Answer—

(1) No. (2) Not applicable. (3) When the investigation into the death is complete and the brief of evidence has been finalised, a decision will be made as to whether an inquest will be held or whether an inquest may properly be dispensed with.

*2437 LAKE CATHIE—SCHOOL—Mr Oakeshott to the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) How many students are needed to warrant a new public school at Lake Cathie? (2) On current growth forecasts, when will a new school be required at Lake Cathie?

Answer—

(1) One of the factors considered in determining the need for a new primary school is a sustainable long term enrolment level. In coastal areas such as Lake Cathie, this threshold number is over 400 local students or 14 class groups. Another factor is the capacity of surrounding schools. (2) Current demographic trends and existing school provision indicate that there is insufficient justification for a new school at Lake Cathie at this time. The situation continues to be monitored.

*2438 MANNING AND PORT MACQUARIE—NEW POLICE OFFICERS—Mr Oakeshott to the Minister for Police—

(1) How many new police officers will be stationed in the Manning and Port Macquarie LACs from the latest round of police graduations from the Goulburn Police Academy? 3407 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(2) When, if any, will the officers arrive?

Answer—

(1) and (2) The Local Area Commands of Manning and Port Macquarie do not exist.

*2439 POLICE NUMBERS—SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS—Ms Seaton to the Minister for Police—

(1) Is it the case that there are 122 officers allocated to the Camden LAC? (2) If not, how many are allocated to the authorised strength of the LAC? (3) Of these officers, as at 1 September 2001 how many are: (a) fully operational and on active duty at this time? (b) on long term leave? (c) on sick leave? (d) on maternity leave? (e) are taking leave owing prior to retirement? (f) on study leave? (g) on light duties? (4) Can he confirm that police staffing levels in the Camden Local Area Command are currently under review? (5) If so, when will the results of this review be available? (6) When will commitments be made to increase staffing levels as a result of this review? (7) In the month of February 2001 and the month of July 2001, how many hours were consumed by: · Camden based police · Picton based police and · Bowral based police in each of the following: (a) prisoner escorts (b) juvenile escorts (c) mental health transports? (8) Can he also confirm that negotiations are being held with the Departments of Corrective Services and Juvenile Justice in regard to relieving police officers of police escort duties? (9) When will these negotiations be completed? (10) Why have arrangements made in 1999 to relieve local police of 2000 hours a year of prisoner escort duties been abandoned? (11) Will you guarantee that all police prison escorts in the Southern Highlands will be taken up by Corrective Services personnel? (12) In reference to my letter of 23 July to Commissioner Ryan requesting a meeting to discuss local policing shortfalls, why did letters of acknowledgement to my office not refer to the 1992 Ministerial guidelines requiring such applications to be made through your office? (13) Why did it take nearly six weeks for the Commissioner’s office to inform me of these guidelines? (14) How many sworn uniformed officers have included in their job description the requirement to work in the reception area of Police Headquarters in College Street? (15) How many officers undertake these duties on a normal working day? (16) How many uniformed officers work in the reception area on any shift on any working day? (17) How many non-uniformed staffed are employed for this duty, and (18) How many would normally work in the reception area on a normal day?

Answer—

The concept of ‘authorised strength’ was abolished by the Police Service Further Amendment Act 1996 as a result of Royal Commission recommendations aimed at increasing the flexibility of management of police resources. As the term has no official standing, it is not appropriate to answer questions in terms of authorised strength. 3408 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Local Area Commanders continually review staffing levels and deployment according to operational needs. The particular tasks of police officers vary and the time applied to particular tasks varies. The Government is implementing a program of transferring responsibilities for prisoner transport to Corrective Services officers and discussions between affected agencies are continuing. I am advised that your letter to the Commissioner was referred to the Deputy Commissioner (Field Operations) and that a copy of the 1992 guidelines was provided with a letter to you dated 31 August 2001. I am advised that sworn police officers are not tasked routinely for duty in the reception area at Police Headquarters, and that non-uniformed staff are not employed for security duties in this area.

*2441 PROPERTY COMMITTEE TO EXPLORE TRANSPORT PROJECT FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES— Mr Debnam to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

In relation to your press release of 13 August 2001, “Property Committee to Explore Transport Project

(1) Which properties in the eastern suburbs of Sydney have been identified and will be considered by the Committee? (2) How do you reconcile your statement that, “The community’s views will be considered throughout this process and consultation will be undertaken” with the requirement that an initial report be made as early as this month being September 2001? (3) Will the criteria used to determine whether a property is sold depend on the value of the land ? (4) What position if any has been formed on the allocation of transport properties for use as public open space and/or parkland? (5) What position if any has been formed on the use of transport properties for additional car parking space for users of public transport? (6) How will property sales incorporate the anticipated growth in use of public transport and ports?

Answer—

The Committee I have established is to explore options for funding further public transport initiatives using the transport portfolio’s existing base of property assets. The Committee is assessing and analysing the extent of property holdings of the NSW transport portfolio. As I have previously publicly undertaken, the community’s views will be considered throughout this process and consultation will be undertaken.

*2442 CONTINGENT LIABILITIES—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

In relation to contingent liabilities: (1) (a) Referring to the statement in the 2000/01 Annual Report of the Transport (p.67), “The Department may be liable for compensation as a result of the Government’s decision to discontinue the awarding of rail maintenance contracts in NSW to the private sector. . . . The amount of this compensation cannot be quantified and may be substantial”, what compensation, if any, has been determined and/or awarded? (b) If no compensation has been awarded, when will taxpayers be informed of the liability stemming from the Government’s decisions?

(1) (a) to (b) In its decision in relation to rail maintenance contestability, the Government agreed to provide reasonable compensation to tenderers affected by the decision in the Hunter Valley. The level of compensation was independently audited by Deloittes Touche Tohmatsu for the Department of Transport. Tenderers signed Deeds of Release which, inter-alia, provided for non- disclosure of terms to third parties. 3409 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

*2443 ROAD TOLLS—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

In relation to policies on the imposition of road tolls: (1) What scope is there for the discounting of tolls for off-peak use to facilitate demand management on the Cross City Tunnel, when completed? (2) Would discounted off-peak tolling on tollways such as the Cross City Tunnel improve overall patronage and reduce the overall costs to the taxpayer? (3) What advice have you received in relation to the capacity of discounted off-peak tolling to reduce vehicle emissions? (4) Has he considered using a discount toll on existing tollways as a financial incentive for users to adopt electronic tolling technology?

Answer—

(1) Three private proponents have been invited to submit proposals to finance, design, construct, maintain and operate the Cross City Tunnel as a tollroad. The invitation constrains the toll to be charged to a base toll which can only be adjusted in line with the consumer price index published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The successful company may choose to charge a lesser toll or charge a lesser toll during off-peak times. (2) The shortlisted proponents may submit proposals containing options to discount off-peak tolls to increase overall revenue and thus reduce costs. A proposal containing discounted off-peak tolling would be considered on its merits. (3) Projects such as the Cross City Tunnel do provide reduced vehicle emissions and the Environmental Impact Statements for these major projects assess and predict these benefits. I have not received any specific advice in respect of the relationship between discounted off-peak tolling and vehicle emissions. (4) There has been a steady increase in the adoption of electronic toll tags. Presently, the RTA has issued approximately 50,000 tags and the M5 & Eastern Distributor have issued 60,000 between them. The issue and use of tags is continuing to grow at a steady rate. It should be noted that the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Harbour Tunnel, M5 and Eastern Distributor have interoperable electronic tolling available to users. The M2 and M4 tollways are currently preparing for the installation of electronic tolling technology that will be compatible with other tollways. The determination of the toll regime on existing private sector tollways ultimately rests with the private sector operator. The tolls and escalation mechanisms are established in the project Deeds and reflect a toll level which sustains the overall viability of the tollways to the operators. Any variation of the agreed toll mechanism would need to be negotiated with each tollway operation. No discussions have been held to date.

*2445 IMPOUNDED VEHICLES—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Police—

(1) (a) Under the provisions originally legislated in the Traffic Amendment (Street and Illegal Drag Racing) Act and in subsequent legislation, how many vehicles have been impounded in calendar years 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001 to date? (b) In calendar years 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001 to date, what other penalties, additional to impounding have been imposed on offenders and on how many occasions have these penalties applied? (c) In calendar years 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001 to date, how many vehicles have been impounded a second time? (2) What are the physical locations of yards or depots that are used to store impounded vehicles?

Answer—

(1) The Acting Deputy Commissioner (Specialist Operations) has advised: 3410 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(a) Year Number of vehicles confiscated under the Act 1997 233 1998 359 1999 410 2000 327 2001 174 (to 31 August 2001) (b) Year Charges and Infringements issued with respect to the above confiscations 1997 690 1998 1086 1999 1256 2000 1120 2001 574 (to 31 August 2001) (c) The Acting Deputy Commissioner (Specialist Operations) has advised that it is not possible to accurately determine the number of vehicles impounded for a second time as offences are recorded against the owner or driver. (2) Vehicles are stored at a variety of locations and holding yards across the State.

*2446 ALLOCATION OF AUTOMATIC TICKET MACHINES—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) What benchmarks or other criteria exist which determine the number of automatic ticket machines that are placed at each CityRail station? (2) What are the most recent data for these benchmarks or criteria for Bondi Junction station? (3) What scope is there for additional ticketing machines at Bondi Junction station? (4) Could additional use of the Bondi Junction Bus/Train interchange be expected during construction of the Cross City Tunnel and if so, what measures will be in place to prevent further congestion and queuing?

Answer—

I am advised of the following: (1) CityRail determines the ticket vending machine requirements for its stations by closely monitoring patronage and demand, including seasonal factors. (2) Bondi Junction Station is currently equipped with four Booking Office machines, 5 large ticket vending machines, and 3 small ticket vending machines. I am advised that Bondi Junction Station is operating within its capacity in terms of ticketing capacity. (3) I am advised that additional machines are not considered warranted at this time. (4) The new Bondi Junction Interchange has been designed and constructed for some further expansion of services and has already proven its capacity for handling additional flows of passengers with the City to Surf crowds this year. Transport NSW, the Roads and Traffic Authority and other transport agencies will continue working closely together to resolve transport issues in relation to the Cross City Tunnel construction.

*2447 STAMP DUTY—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

(1) Given the considerable growth in dwelling prices since 1995, does he agree that home purchaser have been impacted by ‘bracket creep’ in the stamp duty rates? (2) Given that the land tax threshold is indexed, would it be consistent for the stamp duty brackets to be indexed? (3) Given the median price for a house in Sydney is now in the second highest stamp duty bracket, would it be appropriate to review the stamp duty brackets? 3411 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Answer—

(1) The average rate of tax applicable to median house prices has risen over time, reflecting the interaction of the progressive tax scale and growth in house prices. The buoyant conditions in the property market indicate that taxation has not been a significant impediment to property purchases. Targeted assistance with respect to contracts and conveyances duty and mortgage duty is provided to first home buyers through the First Home Plus Scheme. First home buyers do not have the benefit of capital gains on existing properties to help offset the cost of stamp duty. Assistance to first home buyers is also available under the joint Commonwealth-State First Home Owner Grants Scheme. (2) The two taxes are very different and there are no advantages in terms of tax efficiency or equity in applying the same treatment to both taxes. (3) Stamp duty rates and thresholds on contracts and conveyances are reviewed regularly in the context of preparing the State Budget.

*2448 SPREAD OF OVINE JOHNES DISEASE—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) By Rural Lands Protection Board District how many sheep properties were declared (i) infected (ii) suspected as at: (a) 31 January 1998? (b) 31 July 1998? (c) 31 January 1999? (d) July 1999? (e) January 2000? (f) July 2001? (g) January 2001? (h) July 2001? (2) Why has NSW Agriculture not updated the OJD Surveillance Reports on its Web Site since December 2000?

Answer—

(1) See attached Appendix A. (2) Due to an oversight these documents were not put on the web until within the last few weeks. The Surveillance Reports for the periods 1st January – 30th March 2001, and 1st April – 30th June 2001 have been posted onto NSW Agriculture’s external web site and this was done prior to the question being posed. The reports have been made widely available other than on the web site. For example, they have been sent to all members of the NSW OJD Advisory Committee and to The Land newspaper. Within the last few weeks, there has been a review of the approval/publishing process, and future reports will be made available on the web site by the end of the month following the quarter, with the report for the period 1st July - 30th September being collated early in October, and will be made available on the web site by the end of October. 3412 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Appendix A

OJD Flock Status By Board - 31st January 1998-30th June 2001

Reporting P/E IN SU 31-Jan-98 197 190 31-Jul-98 233 280 31-Jan-99 415 464 31-Jul-99 427 570 31-Jan-00 456 578 30-Jun-00 453 566 31-Dec-00 505 715 30-Jun-01 560 809

Current OJD Rural Lands 31-Jan-98 31-Jul-98 31-Jan-99 30-Jul-99 31-Jan-00 30-Jun-00 31-Dec-00 30-Jun-01 Zoning Protection Board IN SU IN SU IN SU IN SU IN SU IN SU IN SU IN SU Control Armidale 0 1 0 5 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 Bombala 0 1 0 2 0 2 0 2 Braidwood# 7 8 7 10 12 9 14 23 15 19 15 19 14 21 17 21 Condobolin 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 Cooma 2 4 2 4 2 12 2 13 3 12 1 10 6 12 6 21 Coonabarabran 1 2 1 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 Coonamble 1 1 1 3 1 3 1 3 1 3 0 1 Dubbo 0 2 Forbes 2 4 1 9 14 56 15 65 15 65 15 58 13 72 12 67 Gundagai 2 6 1 6 5 8 6 7 7 10 6 10 9 18 13 19 Hillston 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 Albury 6 2 Holbrook 3 6 Hume* 10 14 18 15 18 20 25 23 20 31 21 37 36 61 Hunter 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 Molong# 10 4 10 5 28 18 30 21 30 23 31 20 31 20 30 18 Moree 1 1 1 5 1 5 1 5 1 4 1 4 Moss Vale 1 0 1 1 1 1 3 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 Mudgee 0 2 Mudgee-Merriwa* 0 3 0 6 2 5 2 3 2 3 3 5 2 6 Murray 0 3 7 8 7 8 7 8 6 7 6 7 8 11 Narrabri 0 2 0 3 0 3 0 1 0 1 Narrandera 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 1 3 1 2 Northern New England 0 8 0 8 0 5 0 4 0 4 0 4 Warialda 0 1 Northern Slopes* 0 1 0 1 0 4 0 4 0 4 Nyngan 0 2 0 3 0 2 0 2 0 2 Riverina South Coast 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 1 0 Tamworth 0 2 0 3 0 5 1 3 1 3 2 4 3 4 Wagga Wagga 7 3 7 33 10 28 11 40 11 41 5 45 10 61 12 57 Walgett 0 1 0 1 Young 12 19 14 18 32 37 33 31 37 42 36 32 46 38 50 57 Residual/Control Yass 8 21 12 20 22 29 23 40 24 47 24 47 30 67 32 76 Residual Bathurst 66 25 Carcoar 47 26 Central Tablelands* 139 80 213 162 210 219 224 217 229 221 237 251 258 274 Goulburn 22 55 27 66 46 52 47 35 48 35 56 34 72 82 76 98 TOTAL 54 63 55 114 134 221 427 570 456 578 453 566 505 715 560 809 Note1: As of June 2000 Reporting is only done on a quarterly basis, in-line with National Reporting Requirements Note2: Rural Lands Protection Boards not listed have never had flocks classified as an IN/SU status * Several Boards were amalgamated during the 31/1/98 - 31/7/98 period (Bathurst/Carcoar=Central Tablelands, Albury/Holbrook=Hume, Mudgee/Merriwa=Mudgee-Merriwa, Warialda=Northern Slopes) # A couple of Boards have changed zoning - Braidwood was Residual (changing between 31/1/00 & 31/3/00 and Molong was Residual/Control (changing between 30/4/00 & 31/5/01). *2449 FUTURE OF STAFF AT KENMORE HOSPITAL—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Health—

(1) With reference to your reply to Question on Notice 2155, will the Minister give a commitment that all of the Department of Health staff currently employed within the grounds of Kenmore Hospital in Goulburn will be offered suitable positions within Department of Health facilities in Goulburn when Kenmore Hospital is finally closed? (2) If the Minister cannot give a commitment that they will be offered employment in Goulburn, in which other Southern Area Health Service facilities will they be offered employment? 3413 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Answer—

(1) to (2) No staff will be forced to move from Goulburn although a number of Southern Area Health Service staff who are based at Kenmore will relocate to the Area Office in Queanbeyan. The relocation of the Area Health Service staff is to improve operational efficiency and is not related to the disposal of the Kenmore Hospital site.

*2450 BOWNING DEVIATION—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

As the commencement of the construction of the Bowning Deviation is now almost a year overdue will he give a firm date for commencement of construction on the Deviation?

Answer—

The Government recognises the importance of the Burley Griffith Way as a link between agricultural producers and the markets in Sydney and Canberra and has been upgrading the route accordingly. In regard to the Bowning Deviation, it is proposed that an environmental assessment be undertaken in 2001/02. The date of commencement of construction will depend on the outcome of this assessment, the availability of funds and the ranking of other works on a Statewide priority basis.

*2451 CHILDREN IN CARE—Mr Hazzard to the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1)How many case reviews of children and young people in care have been carried out this year by DOCS officers and/or any other designated body? (2)How many children were there in kinship care: (a) at 30 June 2000 (b) at 30 June 2001 (c) have had case plans developed for them by DOCS officers and other relevant bodies in each such year? (3)How many children were there in non-kinship care: (a) at 30 June 2000 (b) at 30 June 2001 (c) have had case plans developed for them by DOCS officers and other relevant bodies in each such year?

Answer—

(1) The Department of Community Services (DoCS) is unable to identify the number of case reviews of children and young people in care carried out by DoCS and other designated bodies. External case monitoring and review functions will be carried out by the Office of the Children’s Guardian. These functions will commence on the proclamation of the relevant section of the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998. In addition, DoCS, in conjunction with non-government organisations, has initiated a Supplementary Minimum Data set to enable the collection of data on case plans and case plan reviews. This information will not be available until mid to late 2002. (2) (a) As at 30 June 2000, 3,424 children and young persons were in kinship care. In addition, 632 children and young persons were placed with parents or in adoptive placements. (b) The data for 2000/2001 is currently being extracted and undergoing quality assurance processes. (c) 3,448 case plans were developed as at 30 June 2000. This figure does not include case plans developed by other designated bodies. (3) (a) As at 30 June 2000, 4,461 children and young persons were in non-kinship care. (b) The data for 2000/2001 is currently being extracted and undergoing quality assurance processes. 3414 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(c) 3,711 case plans were developed as at 30 June 2000. This figure does not include case plans developed by other designated bodies.

*2452 FOSTER CARE—Mr Hazzard to the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) How many children and young people in substitute care in each year since 1995 have been involved in the juvenile justice system (in terms of the total number and as a percentage of all children/young people in care)? (2) How much money was paid to foster carers in total in the financial year: (a) 1997-1998 (b) 1998-1999 (c) 2000-2001? (Specify total of separate contingency payments where applicable.) (3) How many children were there in foster care (a) as at 30 June 2000 (b) as at 30 June 2001?

Answer—

(1) The last data match that examined the correlation between clients of DoCS and the Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ) was undertaken in 1999 as part of the Wards Project. The data match found that approximately 3.5% of wards were involved in the Juvenile Justice system. This data represents one point in time and comparable yearly data is not available. The Wards Project (now known as the DoCS/ DJJ Project) is continuing, and negotiation is occurring between DoCS and DJJ for the regular exchange of information that will more easily enable the identification of joint clients. (2) (a) $36,752,603 (b) $ 50,317,955 (c) $72,182,948 - This amount reflects the new CARE payment rates introduced on 1 July 2000. (3) (a) $2,676 children and young people. (b) The data for 2000/2001 is currently being extracted and undergoing quality assurance processes. It will be available when annual data figures are approved for publishing.

*2453 SITE B MORT BAY—Mr Humpherson to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Has the sale of Site B, Mort Bay been finalised? (2) If not, when will it be finalised? (3) If so, who has purchased the site? (4) How much was the site sold for? (5) When was the sale finalised? (6) What is the zoning classification of Site B, Mort Bay?

Answer—

(1) Agreements with the successful tenderer have been executed. (2) N/A - refer answer Question 1. (3) The successful tenderer was Makawe Pty Ltd. (4) The value of return to the Department of Housing from the divestment is commercial in confidence. (5) Agreements with Makawe Pty Ltd were executed on 21 August 2001. (6) Site B, Mort Bay is zoned Residential 2(b3) under the Leichhardt Local Environmental Plan No. 20, 1998. 3415 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

*2454 STEWARD CONSTRUCTIONS—Mr Humpherson to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Does the Department of Housing contract out maintenance work to Steward Constructions? (2) If so, within which region does Steward Constructions work? (3) Has Steward Constructions been contracted to complete maintenance work by the Broadway Department of Housing office? (4) If so, how many contracts have been awarded to Steward Constructions? (5) Which Department of Housing officer(s) were in charge of awarding contracts to Steward Constructions? (6) Has Steward Constructions replaced fire doors in Wentworth Street, Glebe in recent years? (7) If so, on which dates was this work completed? (8) How many fire-doors were replaced? (9) Are all the front doors in units on Wentworth Street, Glebe fire-doors?

Answer—

(1) No. (2) N/A (3) N/A (4) N/A (5) N/A (6) N/A (7) N/A (8) N/A (9) N/A

*2455 CHRISTINE BORFIELD—Mr Humpherson to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) How long has Christine Borfield been employed by the Department of Housing? (2) In which office does she work? (3) Has she recently taken stress leave? (4) If yes, on what date did she start leave and for how long will she be on leave? (5) Do you know where Christine Borfield resides? (6) Has your office had recent contact with Christine Borfield? (7) When is she expected to return to work?

Answer—

(1) No person by that name is employed by the Department of Housing. (2) to (7) N/A

*2456 SALE OF HOUSING PROPERTIES—Mr Humpherson to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) How many Department of Housing properties were sold in 1994/95, 1995/96, 1996/97, 1997/98, 1998/99, 1999/00, 2000/01 in each of the Department of Housing regions? (2) What was the total revenue raised by the sale of these properties in 1994/95, 1995/96, 1996/97, 1997/98, 1998/99, 1999/00, 2000/01 in each of the Department of Housing regions?

Answer—

(1) Records on property sales are not available by region for all those years requested. 3416 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(2) Records on total revenue raised by the residential asset sales referred to in (1) are not available by region for all those years requested.

*2457 COST OF LEGAL RESOURCES—Mr Humpherson to the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

(1) What is the total cost of supplying Ivan Milat with access to legal resources? (2) How long has Milat had access to legal resources? (3) What are the legal resources Milat has access to? (4) How many hours is Milat allowed to have access to legal resources per day?

Answer—

(1)–(4) Legal resources are available to Ivan Milat and all other Goulburn Correctional Centre inmates through the Goulburn Correctional Centre library and from the legal library at the Metropolitan Remand and Reception Centre. Additionally, all inmates are allowed to borrow law books from external organisations, to make legal phone calls at their own cost, and to employ a legal representative should they so wish.

*2458 BLOOD-BORNE DISEASE—Mr Humpherson to the Minister for Health—

(1) What is the current cost per year to treat NSW inmates who are infected with blood-borne diseases? (2) How many NSW inmates are thought to be infected with blood-borne diseases as at 1 June 2001? (3) What drugs are given to NSW inmates who are thought to be at risk of contracting HIV from sharing needles in prison? (4) How many incidents of needle sharing disease transmissions in NSW prisons have there been in the following years: 1995/96, 1996/97, 1997/98, 1998/99, 1999/00 and 2000/2001? (5) What was the total cost to your Department for treating Ivan Milat following a hunger strike and swallowing metal objects?

Answer—

(1) The Corrections Health Service has a budget of approximately $38 million to provide health services to inmates, including treatment for blood borne diseases. (2) Unknown as at 1 June 2001. (3) Zidovudine, Lamivudine and Saquinaviro, when appropriate. (4) Because many inmates are in correctional centres for very short periods of time, and because knowledge of injecting in correctional centres is anecdotal, it is not possible to determine whether exposure occurred in the community or in correctional centres. (5) Approximately $2,200.

*2459 SUTHERLAND HOSPITAL—Mr Kerr to the Minister for Health—

In relation to Sutherland Hospital: (1) What is/was the total number of beds available in each of the years: 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001? (2) Of these beds what are the various classifications, for example, maternity, day surgery, general surgery, mental health? (3) How many beds are/were available in each classification for each year? (4) What is the maximum number of beds that the current design and plans of the hospital allow for? 3417 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Answer—

I have been advised by the Chief Executive Officer of the South East Sydney Area Health Service that it would take one officer one full week to prepare the information required in this question and it is not known if access to the information is possible. Resources in the public health system should be diverted to patient care. However, I am able to advise the member that there are currently approximately 255 beds at Sutherland Hospital.

*2460 SYDNEY CATCHMENT AUTHORITY—Mr Webb to the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) Is there a plan to transfer ownership of lands under the control of the Sydney Catchment Authority in the Tallaganda Shire to the National Parks and Wildlife Service? (2) If so, how many hectares are to be transferred? (3) Is the transferred land to be declared as a reserve? (4) When will this take place? (5) Does the Authority pay council rates to Tallaganda Shire Council on all the lands under its control in the Shire? (6) If not, which lands are either: (a) exempt from rates; or (b) land on which a lessee pays the rates? (7) Are you aware that some years ago during riverbank stabilisation works African Love Grass was introduced to the Tallaganda Shire by the Authority? (8) Are you now aware that the weed is out of control in many areas of the Shire as a result of this introduction? (9) Why was African Love Grass chosen as a plant suitable for riverbank stabilisation? (10) How many hectares of land under the control of the Authority are infested with the weed? (11) What percentage is regarded as severe infestation? (12) What control and eradication measures are undertaken with respect to the weed? (13) Which other weeds are considered a threat to the environment of the Shoalhaven River and its tributaries, and for each weed, why? (14) What measures to control and eradicate, if possible or desirable are undertaken by the Authority for each weed riverbank stabilisation?

Answer—

(1) to (14) This is a matter for the Minister for the Environment.

*2461 RESPONSE TO CORRESPONDENCE—Mr Webb to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for

(1) When will you respond to my letter to you dated 23 March 2001 on behalf of the Reid family of Berridale to which I have only received an acknowledgement dated 9 April 2001, under your reference 98289? (2) If you have responded directly to the Reid family will you forward a copy of that correspondence to my electorate office?

Answer—

(1) The reference number quoted in this question does not refer to correspondence on behalf of the Reid family of Berridale. (2) A reply to representations from Mr Webb on behalf of the Reid family of Berridale was forwarded to Mr Webb’s electorate office on 4 September 2001 under reference number 98389. 3418 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

*2462 PUBLIC DENTAL SERVICES—Mr Webb to the Minister for Health—

(1) When will the voucher system be readily available for people seeking dental treatment in the Queanbeyan area? (2) How many private practitioners have agreed to be part of the voucher system to provide public dental services in: (a) Queanbeyan (b) Cooma (c) Braidwood (d) Bombala (e) Pambula/Eden areas? (3) What are the budgetary provisions for this voucher system for the remainder of the 2001/2002 financial year? (4) Have any discussions taken place between the NSW Branch of the Australian Dental Association with respect to reviewing the working conditions for public health practitioners? (5) If not, why not?

Answer—

(1) Planning for the introduction of the Oral Health Fee for Service Scheme in Southern Area Health Service has commenced and it will be progressively implemented from approximately October 2001. (2) Approximately five across the Southern Area Health Service. (3) Up to $9 million across the state for 2001/02 (4) No. (5) N/A.

*2463 SCHOOL HALL PROGRAMME—Mr Kerr to the Minister for Education and Training—

Will any public school in the Cronulla electorate receive a new school hall as a result of the 2001/02 budget announcement of an $80 million programme for such facilities?

Answer—

The Department of Education and Training is reviewing the forward Capital Works Program with reference to the commitment of additional capital funding over the next four financial years. As part of that review the needs of schools in the Cronulla electorate will be taken into consideration.

*2464 TRAIN DELAYS —Mr Kerr to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

How many trains were cancelled or delayed on 30 May 2001?

Answer—

The State Rail Authority advises me that on-time running across the CityRail network has been showing improvement. On-time running figures for the CityRail network are now published on the CityRail internet site, www.cityrail.nsw.gov.au.

*2465 WESTERN SYDNEY DENTAL SERVICES—Mrs Skinner to the Minister for Health—

How many people are on the waiting list for dental health care in the Western Sydney Area Health Service in the following categories: (a) Adult General (b) Child (c) Dentures 3419 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(d) Orthodontics and how long is the longest wait in each category?

Answer—

*2466 INVERELL EMERGENCY SERVICES—Mrs Skinner to the Minister for Health—

(1) Is the Inverell Hospital Emergency Department closed for four nights each fortnight because there are not enough doctors to cover a safe staffing roster? (2) Is this because over the past 12 months the number of procedural General Practitioners available to participate in the roster have fallen from twelve to four? (3) Do you agree with doctors that there is potential for mistakes to be made when doctors are on call every night, every day for seven days a week? (4) What measures have you taken to ensure that staff are available to cover the Inverell Emergency Department shift 24 hours a day, seven days a week? (5) What alternative arrangements are in place for patients who require emergency care while the Inverell Emergency Department is unstaffed? (6) Should an emergency department which serves a community of more than 10,000 have better access to emergency medical services?

Answer—

(1) No—the Emergency Department at Inverell Hospital has not been closed at any time. (2) Of the 13 Doctors in Inverell, one retired from the Hospital some time ago, one has recently resigned as a VMO, three have not provided ED cover for a long period, and three have recently withdrawn from providing ED cover because of their procedural work. (3) No Doctor has been asked to provide on-call services to the Inverell Emergency Department at Inverell Hospital every night and every day for seven days a week. (4) The New England Area Health Service has been able to provide cover 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for life threatening cases who present to the Emergency Department at Inverell Hospital. (5) The Emergency Department of Inverell Hospital has not been unstaffed. All attendances to the Department are assessed and appropriate action taken. (6) A 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Emergency Department service is available to the community of Inverell.

*2467 WENTWORTH AREA DENTAL SERVICES—Mrs Skinner to the Minister for Health—

How many people are on the waiting list for dental health care in the Wentworth Area Health Service in the following categories: (a) Adult General (b) Child (c) Dentures (d) Orthodontics 3420 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

and how long is the longest wait in each category?

Answer—

*2468 NPWS OFFICE MUSWELLBROOK—Mr Souris to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What was the date of the official opening of the NPWS office, newly built, in Muswellbrook? (2) How many staff, at its peak, worked from that office? (3) How many staff now work at the office? (4) Is it intended to close the NPWS office at Muswellbrook and re-lease the premises to the Department of Corrective Services which will, in turn, close its existing office location in Muswellbrook? (5) Why has the NPWS office in Muswellbrook been downgraded over the years since its opening? (6) Will the NPWS office, proposed to be relocated to Scone, be downgraded either in its status or in its staffing level?

Answer—

The building was officially opened on 31 May 1998. I am advised that the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is currently negotiating with the Department of Corrective Services to sub-lease the office at Muswellbrook. This will enable the NPWS’s Upper Hunter Area staff to relocate to Scone. I am advised that the NPWS does not plan to downgrade the status of or reduce staffing levels at its Upper Hunter Area Office.

*2469 PUBLIC SERVICE NUMBERS—Mr Stoner to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

How many public servants were employed by the NSW Government, both full-time and part-time, as at: (a) 30 June 1995 (b) 30 June 1996 (c) 30 June 1997 (d) 30 June 1998 (e) 30 June 1999 (f) 30 June 2000 (g) 30 June 2001?

Answer—

General Government Staff Numbers 1994-1995 241,005 1995-1996 235,886 1996-1997 236,176 3421 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

1997-1998 237,613 1998-1999 235,531 1999-2000 234,594 2000-2001 Unavailable at this time The figures are for full time equivalent staff numbers.

*2470 DENTAL SERVICE MID NORTH COAST—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for

(1) What is the amount of funds made available for the Oral Health Fee For Service Scheme in 2001? (2) How much of the funds available for the Oral Health Fee For Service Scheme have been allocated in the Mid North Coast Health Service Area in 2001? (3) How much has specifically been allocated to the following areas for 2001: (a) Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest area (b) Forster Tuncurry area (c) Taree area (d) Gloucester area (e) Bulahdelah area? (4) Is a patient’s eligibility under this scheme determined by prioritising patients through the Information System for Oral Health (ISOH) questionnaire? (5) If so, are patients assessed as code 1, code 2, code 3a or code 3b under the ISOH questionnaire eligible for treatment? (6) If so, what is the criteria for code 1? (7) If so, what is the criteria for code 2? (8) If so, what is the criteria for code 3a? (9) If so, what is the criteria for code 3b? (10) Under NSW Health Dept Circular No 2001/50 issued 15 June 2001 at page 3, the words “within an appropriate time frame” are used. What is this appropriate time frame, in hours, for each of the codes listed above? (11) How many private practitioners have agreed to treat patients, using the Oral Health Treatment Voucher Authority of this scheme, in the Mid North Coast Area Health Service jurisdiction for each of the following areas: (a) Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest area (b) Forster Tuncurry area (c) Taree area (d) Gloucester area (e) Bulahdelah area? (12) How many patients have been issued with the Oral Health Treatment Voucher Authorities in each of the following areas: (a) Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest area (b) Forster Tuncurry area (c) Taree area (d) Gloucester area (e) Bulahdelah area? (13) How many people are on the waiting lists in the Mid North Coast Area Health Service and what is the length of waiting time for the following: (a) Adults General (b) Children (c) Dentures (d) Orthodontics? (14) How many people on the waiting lists are from the following areas and in what classification: (a) Tea Gardens/Hawks Nest area (b) Forster Tuncurry area (c) Taree area 3422 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(d) Gloucester area (e) Bulahdelah area?

Answer—

(1) Up to $9 million across the state for 2001/02. (2) For 2001/02 the total enhancement for the Mid North Coast Area Health Service is $588,000. (3) The enhancement funding is allocated to the Area Health Service for their allocation on a needs basis. (4) Yes. (5) Yes. (6) Criteria includes emergency situations such as swelling, haemorrhage and supervening infection. (7) Criteria includes any medical condition where failure to give dental care would adversely affect general health or the commencement of urgent medical treatment. (8) Criteria includes pain such as that which keeps the patient awake at night. (9) Criteria includes pain. (10) 24 hours, three working days, five working days and 10 working days. (11) Approximately 11 private dentists have undertaken to participate across the Area Health Service/network. (12) Estimated that by the end of October, 120 vouchers will have been issued in the Mid North Coast Area Health Service. (13) to (14) Public dental services are administered across six state networks, not on an area basis. Disaggregated data is not available. The decision by the Commonwealth Government in 1997 to abolish the Commonwealth Dental Program has had serious repercussions on the delivery of public oral health care. It is estimated that, on an annual basis, 270,000 people in NSW were unable to be treated because of the cessation of the Commonwealth Program.

In April 2000, the State Government announced a $33 million, three-year program which will enable the treatment of an estimated additional 30,000 patients in 2000/01 increasing to an additional 200,000 patients in 2002/03. In addition, funding, for the first time, will be allocated on a resource distribution formula basis.

*2471 HIGHWAY UPGRADE—NERONG—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for

(1) Have plans been completed for the upgrade of the Pacific Highway adjacent to the village of Nerong? (2) If so, has any provision been made for an underpass to allow residents of Nerong access to the western side of the Pacific Highway? (3) If so, what form will such underpass take? (4) If no provision has been made, how will residents of Nerong safely access the western side of the Pacific Highway?

Answer—

(1) No. Community submissions received in response to the display of the Environmental Impact Statement are currently being assessed prior to a final decision being made on the project. (2) No. (3) N/A. (4) As part of the proposed upgrading of the Pacific Highway to provide dual carriageway conditions between Karuah and Bulahdelah, the intersection with Whimbrell Drive will be improved to provide for safer traffic movements into and out of Nerong. 3423 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

*2472 RAINBOW FLAT ACCIDENTS—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) What has been the number of reportable accidents that have occurred at or near the intersection of the Pacific Highway and Main Road 111 at Rainbow Flat for the period 1995 to date? (2) What has been the seriousness or otherwise of such accidents?

Answer—

(1) There have been 19 accidents reported at the intersection from 1 October 1995 to 31 December 2000. (2) There have been no fatalities at the intersection. 12 of the accidents were injury accidents.

*2473 HEALTH WARNINGS—TOBACCO PRODUCTS—Mr E. T. Page to the Minister for Health—

(1) Were health warnings on Australian tobacco products mandated in Federal legislation in 1973? (2) Were these warnings updated in 1987 and 1985? (3) Do these warnings address general health, lung cancer, heart disease, addiction, low infant birth weight and harm to others through passive smoking? (4) Was the adoption of these health warnings vigorously opposed by the tobacco industry? (5) Traditionally, has the tobacco industry continually been opposed to further hard-hitting, specific statements in favour of more bland, general warnings? (6) Is Age-related Macular Degeneration, AMD, the leading cause of blindness in Australia? (7) Is it true there is no treatment for the majority of AMD cases and support services for blind people are very costly? (8) Have recent population-based, cross-sectional data from four countries, including Australia, together with data from two large cohort studies, consistently identified smoking as the strongest environment risk factor for AMD? (9) Has the Beaver Dam Eye Study found that, in both men and women, smoking was related to the incidence of large drusen, the principal precursor lesion for late stage AMD lesions? (10) Is it stated in the article “Smoking is a Major Cause of Blindness” in the Medical Journal of Australia, volume 171 dated 16 August 1999, that of the 100,000 people with late stage AMD in Australia around 20,000 may have AMD directly attributable to smoking? (11) Is it also stated that evidence indicates that approximately 10,000 Australians are currently likely to be blind as a result of smoking? (12) Has Professor Hugh Taylor from Melbourne University stated that smoking leads to oxidated damage to the macula and is the only single factor known to influence the development and progression of macula degeneration? (13) In view of this, what steps can be taken by you to have included in the health warnings on Australian tobacco products that smoking causes blindness?

Answer—

(1) to (2) Yes. The health warnings were updated in 1985 and further updated in 1994, when the Federal Government introduced regulation requiring all packaging for cigarettes, loose tobacco and cigars (except cigars sold singly), manufactured from 1 January 1995, to carry specified health warnings and content labelling. (3) Yes. (4) This question should be directed to the Commonwealth Minister for Health and Aged Care, The Hon Dr Michael Wooldridge MP, as this matter falls within his area of responsibility. (5) Yes. (6) Yes. (7) Yes. However, if AMD is diagnosed early, laser surgery may prevent further deterioration. (8) to (11) Yes. 3424 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(12) The NSW Department of Health is not aware of this statement. (13) Health warnings on tobacco products are governed by the Trade Practices Act. This legislation is administered by the Commonwealth Minister for Financial Services and Regulation in close consultation with the Minister for Health and Aged Care.

6 SEPTEMBER 2001

(Paper No. 108)

*2474 LASER POINTER—Mr Maguire to the Minister for Police—

(1) In recent years has a device known as a “Laser Pointer” which transmits a passive beam “dot” similar to that of a “red dot” assault sight, been made a prohibited device in public, the use of which is deemed as assault upon the target person? (2) Could the actions of a group known as the National Coalition for Gun Control in Martin Place, Sydney, on Friday 27 April 2001, by projecting a red cross-hair similar to a laser red dot onto numerous passers-by, constitute an illegal act? (3) If the above question is answered in the affirmative, and a breach of the law has occurred, why did the City of Sydney Council issue a permit, and should they be pursued and prosecuted? Answer—

(1) and (2) A “laser pointer” is not prohibited under the Weapons Prohibition Act 1998, or any other legislation within my portfolio. (3) The Honourable Member should address his question about the issue of a permit to the Council of the City of Sydney.

*2475 MEDITERRANEAN FRUIT FLY—Mr Armstrong to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for

(1) How widespread is the incidence of Mediterranean Fruit Fly in South Australia and what is the frequency of outbreaks? (2) Is there a widespread trapping program in place in the fruit growing regions of South Australia to catch this fly, similar to what we have in NSW for Queensland Fruit Fly? (3) Exactly where are these traps and how often are they inspected? (4) Does South Australia have a baiting program to control the Fruit Fly and where is the baiting done? (5) Are other States notified of an outbreak of this Fruit Fly? (6) What control programs are in place in NSW to prevent an outbreak of this fruit fly in this State? (7) Does NSW require all fruit coming from South Australia to be treated for Fruit Fly? (8) If not, will he put in place a requirement that all fruit coming in from South Australia in the coming season must be treated for Mediterranean Fruit Fly?

Answer—

(1) There were nine (9) Mediterranean fruit fly outbreaks in the Adelaide metropolitan area but none in horticultural production areas in 2000/2001. Most of South Australia is usually free from Mediterranean and Queensland fruit fly. (2) Yes. (3) Traps are on a 400 m grid in Adelaide and all towns in production areas and on a 1 km grid in orchard areas according to the trapping protocol. They are inspected weekly in the summer and fortnightly in winter. (4) South Australia deploys an extensive baiting program following the declaration of an outbreak of fruit fly in Adelaide and production areas. (5) Yes. 3425 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(6) There has been no Mediterranean fruit fly detected in NSW since 1941. The control program relies on early detection in the surveillance program throughout the Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone (FFEZ) and chemical control following an outbreak. Chemical intervention before an outbreak would negate all trade agreements. (7) Fruit from areas free of fruit fly does not require treatment. Commercial fruit from outbreak areas must be treated before entering NSW. (8) No, because only fruit from outbreak areas is required to be treated. Produce from fruit fly free districts does not pose a risk to NSW.

*2476 RAILWAY LEVEL CROSSINGS—Mr Oakeshott to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Is there a Government principle or policy to reduce the number of railway crossings in NSW? (2) Is there concern that 3 level crossings exist on the Lansdowne Road between Cundletown and Lansdowne?

Answer—

(1) The Government’s long standing policy towards reducing the number of railway crossings in NSW has been to: · discourage the construction of new level crossings; · rationalise level crossings that are poorly serviced by road commuters; and · rationalise those level crossings that are deemed a significant safety risk to road and rail commuters. To ensure that the Government’s policies are implemented, the Level Crossing Strategy Council, chaired by the Director General of Transport, has been tasked to coordinate level crossing policy- setting and oversee the implementation of safety improvements to level crossings across NSW. It should be noted that over the term of this Government, a significant number of level crossings have been upgraded or replaced, which has led to an overall reduction in the number of persons killed or injured at level crossings. (2) While there is always an inherent safety concern when road and rail intersect, I have been advised that the 3 level crossings on Landsdowne Road are all actively protected with lights and bells.

*2477 FUNDING SIS/EIS AT LAKE INNES—Mr Oakeshott to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Is the Government committed to funding an SIS/ EIS at Lake Innes to assess impacts of the closure of the Lake on Lake Cathie? (2) If so, when?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) A steering committee comprising the Service, Hastings Council and a community representative is to be established by the end of October 2001 to arrange, implement and support the project.

*2478 NOXIOUS WEEDS—PORT HACKING—Mr Kerr to the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs, representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

What progress has been made in eliminating noxious weeds from Port Hacking? 3426 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Answer—

The invasive seaweed Caulerpa taxifolia is a noxious weed which was previously popular in the aquarium trade. On 1 October 2000 Caulerpa taxifolia was declared a noxious marine vegetation, making it an offence to possess, sell or release the plant in the coastal waters of New South Wales. In June 2001, after extensive consultation with commercial and recreational fishers, the Government implemented closures to commercial and recreational fishing methods in order to avoid further spreading of the weed. Techniques to remove the weed have been trialed and these trails are continuing, to attempt to learn which different techniques are required for different infestations. NSW Fisheries is consulting with overseas experts who have been unsuccessfully attempting to control populations in the Mediterranean since the 1980’s, and more recently in California. The Government has also implemented an extensive advisory campaign focusing on waterway users to inform the community of practical things they can do to help minimise the spread of the weed.

*2479 CHARGE AGAINST SENIOR CONSTABLE—Mr Kerr to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

What was the reason that the charge against Senior Constable Maria was not proceeded with?

Answer—

As the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions had determined that there was no reasonable prospect of a conviction, it sought and was granted leave to withdraw the charge of assault against Senior Constable Maria.

*2480 ITEMS REMOVED—BOTANY BAY NATIONAL PARK—Mr Kerr to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

What items have been removed from display at the Discovery Centre, Botany Bay National Park to allow for the representation of the central theme of a ‘meeting place of cultures’?

I am advised by the National Parks and Wildlife Service that no items have been removed from the public display at the Discovery Centre, Botany Bay National Park, for the purpose of allowing for the representation of a central theme of a “meeting place of cultures.”

*2481 MONA VALE ROAD UPGRADE—Mr Brogden to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) On what basis are the cost estimates for the upgrade of the Mona Vale Road made ( refer to answer to question 2140)? (2) Who provided the cost estimate? 3427 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Answer—

(1) The section of Mona Vale Road from Kanangra Road, Terry Hills to Bungan Street, Mona Vale is 7.5 km in length. The cost estimate for the duplication of the existing 70 km/h alignment is $15M per kilometre, which includes at grade intersections, property acquisition, utility relocation, rehabilitation of the existing roadway and improved access. The equation is 7.5 km @ $15M which equals $112.5M, approximately $115M. (2) It is a strategic estimate by the RTA based on rates per kilometre for recent similar work to Mona Vale Road, which includes property acquisition and utility relocation.

*2482 SAFE BACKPACKING LEAFLET—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Tourism—

(1) What was the total cost of designing, printing and distributing the “Safe Backpacking in New South

(2) What other action if any has she initiated to solve backpacker related problems including dumping of rubbish, dumping of cars, noise pollution and illegal accommodation? (3) What is being done to improve both the quality and quantity of approved backpacker accommodation in Sydney and NSW and the amenity of neighbouring residential areas?

Answer—

(1) The design, printing and distribution of the “Safe Backpacking in New South Wales” leaflet was done in accordance with Government guidelines. (2) Not applicable. This matter should be referred to the Minister for Local Government. (3) Not applicable. This matter should be referred to the Minister for Local Government.

*2483 ELECTRONIC TRANSACTIONS ACT 2000—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

(1) Why hasn’t this Act been proclaimed? (2) When does he anticipate that it will be proclaimed?

Answer—

(1) This is a matter for the Attorney-General. (2) This is a matter for the Attorney-General.

*2484 STAMP DUTY POLICY—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

With the abolition of wholesale tax, has the Government’s decision to levy stamp duties of a GST- inclusive basis led to an increase or a decrease in 2000/01 stamp duty revenues and if so, by how much?

Answer—

The Government has not sought to quantify the impact of levying stamp duties on a GST-inclusive basis in 2000-01 because: the policy is consistent with past practice of levying stamp duty on prices inclusive of Commonwealth taxes, the impact is likely to be small, and because of the inherent difficulties in preparing such estimates and concerns that the results would not be reliable. Prior to the introduction of the GST stamp duties applied to prices inclusive of Commonwealth Wholesale Sales Tax (WST). Generally, State and Territory governments have continued the policy of 3428 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

applying stamp duty to prices that include Commonwealth taxes. Similarly, the Commonwealth levies GST on the price of petrol and tobacco inclusive of Commonwealth excise duties. The impact of levying stamp duty on GST-inclusive prices rather than WST-inclusive prices may affect stamp duty collections at the margin. That is, the stamp duty collected will vary if the change from WST to GST has affected the price of transactions subject to stamp duty. In the case of motor vehicles it is known that the GST has resulted in lower prices and consequently lower stamp duty per vehicle than would otherwise have prevailed. For other taxes the situation is not clear-cut. For example, for contracts and conveyances stamp duty (the largest component of stamp duty revenue) the net impact of the GST on housing prices is difficult to discern separately from general economic forces affecting housing prices.

*2485 NATIVE DOG CREEK BRIDGE—Mr Webb to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) What was the result of the recent testing of the beams and foundations of the Native Dog Creek Bridge of the Monaro Highway? (2) When will work begin to widen the dangerously narrow bridge? (3) Are you aware that there is a serious misalignment between the bridge’s balustrade (wall) and the guide post on the southern approach to the bridge which have been used to close off the former access to the creek causing the bridge to appear wider than it is, particularly at night? (4) Are you also aware that there is only one warning sign in place on the northern side of the bridge warning of its narrowness?

Answer—

(1) Recent testing did not examine the beams and foundations of the bridge. However, test bores were drilled adjacent to the bridge abutment and on the deck to assist in assessing the nature and extent of future repairs to the bridge expansion joint. (2) A firm timetable has yet to be established for widening of the 6.2 metre wide bridge. (3) Guide posts were installed on the southern side of the bridge to close a parking area due to safety concerns caused by limited sight distance. Arrangements have been made for a night inspection to determine whether the location of guide posts and guardrail on the bridge approach gives a false impression of road conditions. Adjustments will be made if required. (4) Bombala Shire Council’s Traffic Committee recommended installing only one narrow bridge sign due to the limited opportunity on the northern side of the bridge to locate additional signs. The effectiveness of this arrangement will be reviewed by site inspection.

*2486 STOLEN LIVESTOCK—Mr Webb to the Minister for Police—

(1) How many cattle have been reported stolen within the Monaro Electorate in the last twelve months? (2) How many sheep have been reported stolen in the same area during the same period? (3) What has been the estimated value of this livestock? (4) How many, if any, have been recovered? (5) Have any charges been laid with respect to the stolen livestock or their transportation?

Answer—

The Commissioner has advised that: (1) Six incidents of cattle theft have been reported in the Monaro Local Area Command. (2) 17 incidents of sheep theft have been reported in the Monaro Local Area Command. (3) Owners estimate the valueat approximately $51,000. (4) 58 Sheep have been recovered. (5) Police have attended saleyards at Braidwood, Queanbeyan, Cooma, Delegate and Bombala on 18 occasions, making checks of stock and Travelling Stock Statements. I am advised that two charges have been laid so far. 3429 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

The deployment of trained Rural Crime Investigators at 32 non-metropolitan Local Area Commands, including the Monaro Local Area Command, will help reduce crime in rural communities, including stock theft. I am advised that 20 police have already completed a five day training course on rural crime.

*2487 MONARO HIGHWAY—Mr Webb to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Are you aware of the early failure of the emulsion road surface on several areas of the Monaro Highway, such as to the north of Bredbo, on the Snowy Mountains Highway west of Cooma and the Kosciuszko Road near the Snowy Mountains/Cooma airport? (2) Are you aware that the resultant loose gravel has caused vehicle and windscreen damage necessitating expensive repairs? (3) When will the problem be fixed and the roads resurfaced?

Answer—

(1) Pavement rehabilitation works were undertaken by the RTA on the Monaro and Snowy Mountains Highways, as well as similar work on the Kosciuszko Road by a contractor to Snowy River Shire Council. There has been stripping of aggregate from some patches of the new bitumen surface. (2) The RTA will sympathetically consider claims from motorists whose vehicles may have been damaged, including broken windscreens. (3) Loose aggregate has been swept from the road. More permanent repairs will be completed during warmer weather conditions before Christmas.

*2488 SOUTH WESTERN SYDNEY DENTAL SERVICES—Mrs Skinner to the Minister for Health—

How many people are waiting for dental care in the South Western Sydney Area Health Service in the categories: · Adult general · Child · Dentures · Orthodontics and what is the longest wait in each category?

Answer—

*2489 SOUTH EASTERN DENTAL SERVICES—Mrs Skinner to the Minister for Health—

How many people are waiting for dental care in the South Eastern Sydney Area Health Service in the categories: · Adult general · Child · Dentures 3430 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

· Orthodontics and what is the longest wait in each category?

Answer—

*2490 CAMMERAY PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr Collins to the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What are the projected enrolment figures for Cammeray Public School for each of the next five years? (2) How are these figures compiled? (3) Specifically, are these projected figures consistent with data compiled by DUAP, the Australian Bureau of Statistics and North Sydney Council? (4) Is there a ceiling on the numb er of enrolments planned for Cammeray Public School? (5) Does the Department of School Education have a maximum enrolment number for NSW primary schools which cannot be exceeded? (6) What is that enrolment ceiling?

Answer—

(1) Projected enrolments at Ca mmeray Public School are 2002 – 518 students, 2003 – 538 students, 2004 – 540 students, 2005 – 558 students, 2006 – 562 students. (2) The Australian Bureau of Statistics Census of Population and Housing results are used to analyse population by age, dwelling types, attendance at government or non-government schools, employment by type and change from census to census. The ABS also provides births by year of occurrence by local government area and new dwelling approvals by type of dwelling by census collector district and these data are used for broad and detailed projections and planning. Medicare data on persons registered by age and by postcode provide an important source for kindergarten enrolment projections at the school level. This information is used in conjunction with actual enrolments by school and by grade and trends in retention rates to generate projected enrolments. (3) Information from local government planners and the Department of Urban Affairs and Planning regarding existing and proposed urban development is critical to the assessment of future enrolments and effective planning of school facilities. (4) Enrolment ceilings are established for government schools based on the available permanent accommodation at each school. When the redevelopment of the Cammeray Public School is completed the school will have a modern administration, library, ten new classrooms and other classrooms refurbished, with an enrolment ceiling based on permanent accommodation for around 550 students. Enrolments at the school will continue to be monitored and if necessary the school intake area will be adjusted in consultation with the school. (5) Enrolments in individual schools are managed by adjusting school intake areas, the provision of temporary demountable accommodation or additional permanent classrooms or the construction of new schools. (6) There is no maximum enrolment number. 3431 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

*2491 DEMOUNTABLE SCHOOLS—NORTHBRIDGE PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr Collins to the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) How many demountables are currently in use at Northbridge Primary School? (2) How long are these demountables expected to be used by primary school students? (3) What plans are in place to replace the demountables with additional permanent accommodation? (4) What budget provision has been made for this purpose?

Answer—

(1) There are seven demountable classrooms and a demountable canteen at Northbridge Public School. (2) The length of time for demountable facility provision depends on the enrolment pattern at the school. (3) The replacement of long-term demountable accommodation in schools is a Government priority. The program to replace demountable classrooms is targeting schools with the largest number of students. The needs of Northbridge Public School will be taken into consideration as part of the review of this program. (4) As announced by the Treasurer in the May 2001/2002 State Budget, $1.1 billion has been set aside to build, renovate and renew government schools over the next four years. This package includes $50 million extra to replace 330 demountables with permanent facilities.

*2492 STORM EVENTS—NSOOS CATCHMENT—Mr Collins to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) (a) How are storm events in the NSOOS catchment measured? What are the locations of the weather stations used and the calculation procedure for quantifying storm severity from the station measurements? (b) How many storm events have occurred since overflow test began? What are the dates and rainfall quantities distributed over the storm duration? (c) How many additional storms are required to permit issue of an operating licence for sewage overflow tunnels? (2) (a) What data has been collected on the filling of the three major sewage overflow tunnels during recent Sydney storms? (b) Have records and telephone logs been kept of warnings issued to members of the public, schools etc located close to portals, shafts and vents of the sewage overflow system during these exploratory experiments of an unlicensed system? (c) What insurances provide public risk protection for surrounding properties? (3) (a) On what dates since May 2001 has tunnel air been discharged through the sewage overflow vents on the lower North Shore? What volume was discharged on each occasion? (b) What arrangements have been made to monitor biological organisms in vent gases on either side of the outflow filters? What measurements have been made of organisms lodged in the filters? On what dates have such biological evaluations been made? What were the results? (4) (a) How will performance criteria in the operating licence for sewage outflow tunnels be set? (b) Will the operating licence require approval of the Minister and/or Governor ? (c) Which authority will be responsible for monitoring the compliance of operators to the licensed pollution limitations? (5) Who will be responsible for issuing public warning of impending or existing violations of the licence conditions for the North Shore sewage overflow tunnels? (6) What time delays for operation supervision will be permitted in the licence? (7) What penalties & public damages litigation will be permitted or overruled by the licence?

Answer—

This question should be directed to the Minister responsible for Sydney Water, the Hon Kim Yeadon MP. 3432 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

*2493 CADE UNIT GOULBURN—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Health—

(1) Will the Minister confirm that negotiations are underway between the SAHS and a private aged care provider to take over the functions currently offered by the Giles Court Confused and Disturbed Elderly unit at St John of God Hospital in Goulburn? (2) When does the Minister expect these negotiations to be completed? (3) Has the SAHS or the NSW Department of Health conducted any negotiations with the Commonwealth Government regarding the transfer of responsibility for the care of dementia patients to the Commonwealth? (4) If so, when did these negotiations take place? (5) When does he expect these negotiations to be completed?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) Negotiations are in the early stages and no time-frame has been set. (3) Yes. (4) May 2000 and August 2001. (5) Ongoing discussions will occur as needed.

*2494 SMARTTRAIN COURSES—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) Since June 1999 has the NSW Department of Agriculture given any subsidies or financial assistance to NSW TAFE to run the SMARTtrain courses in the safe handling of farm chemicals? (2) If so, what is the extent of these subsidies or financial assistance?

Answer—

(1) No. NSW Agriculture has not provided any financial assistance or subsidies to TAFE NSW to run the SMARTtrain Chemical Program courses. SMARTtrain courses provided to industry by my Department and TAFE NSW are funded on a commercial basis. The costing of courses reflect all salaries, on-costs and resources involved in the training. (2) Not applicable.

*2495 SOIL TESTING OF BATLOW MPS SITE—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Health—

(1) Is the Minister aware that there is considerable concern within the community at Batlow over the possibility of soil contamination on the proposed site of the Batlow MPS? (2) Will the Minister give a commitment that suitable soil testing of the proposed site will occur? (3) When will this testing take place?

Answer—

(1) to (3) If considered necessary soil testing will take place after a site has been selected for the Batlow MPS.

*2496 FAR WEST AREA DENTAL SERVICES—Mrs Skinner to the Minister for Health—

How many people are waiting for dental care in the Far West Sydney Area Health Service in the categories: · Adult general · Child 3433 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

· Dentures · Orthodontics and what is the longest wait in each category?

Answer—

*2497 PARK ENTRY FEE—Mr J. H. Turner to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) What has been the amount that has been collected from Booti Booti National Park by way of park entry fees from all sources for the periods 1999-2000, 2000-2001 to date? (2) What is the breakdown of the source of those fees? (3) What have been the administration costs associated with the collection of those fees? (4) What has the surplus of fees, if any, been expended upon?

Answer—

(1) and (2) I am advised that around $18,000 was collected from day use fees, Single Park Passes and Regional and State-wide Annual Passes. (3) I am advised that the administrative costs associated with the collection of these fees are integrated within the broad function of park management. (4) Surplus funds are allocated to the construction of local park infrastructure, in this case an access track to Cape Hawke lookout in Booti Booti National Park.

*2498 INCLOSED LANDS PROTECTION ACT—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Education and

Does the Inclosed Lands Protection Act apply to schools? (1) If so, how many prosecutions have been launched under the Inclosed Lands Protection Act for the years 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001 to date? (2) How many prosecutions have been successful for the above years? (3) What is the primary reason for use of the Inclosed Lands Protection Act by the Department of Education or other relevant authority? (4) If it is not for the protection of security of buildings, what is the procedure and protocol for the prime protection of school buildings, students and teachers?

Answer—

(1) The Inclosed Lands Protection Act 1901 and updated Inclosed Lands Protection Amendment Act 1997 Number 97 relate to the protection of inclosed lands from intrusion and trespass. Schools, in particular, are listed as prescribed premises, and as such, this Government acted to double penalties under the Inclosed Lands Protection Amendment Act 1997 for school intrusions and offensive behaviour. The penalty under Section 4A of the Inclosed Lands Protection Amendment Act 1997 3434 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

doubled to a maximum of $2,000 (plus GST) for anyone trespassing who refuses to leave the school grounds, or who conducts him or herself in an offensive manner. The maximum penalty for anyone who enters inclosed lands without a lawful excuse also doubled to $1,000 (plus GST). The Department of Education and Training does not maintain records relating to the prosecution of offenders which are conducted by the NSW Police Service. This matter should be referred to the Hon Paul Whelan MP, Minister for Police. (2) See (1) above. (3) The Inclosed Lands Protection Act is used by the Department as a means of ensuring that its premises are safe for students, staff and visitors. Students and staff can request unwanted intruders to leave school grounds. The Act can also be used to arrest and charge people who enter school grounds after hours, although this would normally be in relation to other criminal offences that may have occurred at the school. (4) The Department of Education and Training has in place a wide range of programs and strategies to address crime in schools including: · a comprehensive return to base electronic surveillance program; · contracted guard and alarm maintenance services; · physical and electronic security programs; · training and awareness programs in schools including the Security Guidelines and Asset Protection Plan; · school-based risk assessments; working closely with the NSW Police Service and other government agencies that have a common interest to reducing crime within the community; · training school principals to adopt simple security strategies in schools; and · the SchoolWatch program.

*2499 BULAHDELAH BY-PASS—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) When will the Minister advise the final route for the Bulahdelah By-Pass? (2) If a decision hasn’t been made, will the Minister rule out various options that will definitely not be considered so that people that may be affected by those options can go about making decisions for the future of their property? (3) If so, what options will be ruled out? (4) If so, when will such options be ruled out? (5) If the Minister is not prepared to rule out options that will definitely not be considered, why not?

Answer—

(1) In the near future. (2) Announcement is imminent which means that other options do not need to be ruled out. (3) N/A. (4) N/A. (5) Announcement of the preferred route is imminent.

*2500 MOONAN FLAT SCHOOL PRINCIPAL—Mr Souris to the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Why is the Acting Principal of Moonan Flat Public School being denied the opportunity to apply for the position of Principal despite overwhelming local community support? (2) Will the prime consideration in the appointment be the best interests of the students? (3) In the best interests of the students and in view of local community support, will you instruct the Department of Education to accept the legitimacy of the application of the current Acting Principal? 3435 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Answer—

(1) Under the Teaching Services Act 1980 (Section 59D(1)) only a permanent officer in the Teaching Service can be considered for promotion in the first instance. (2) The prime consideration in selecting a principal for any school is to appoint the best eligible applicant. This will be the case for Moonan Flat Public School. (3) If the selection panel does not recommend any applicant or there is insufficient initial interest in the vacancy, the position may be advertised in the press and the Acting Principal of Moonan Flat Public School will then be eligible to apply.

18 SEPTEMBER 2001

(Paper No. 109)

2501 OCHTERTYRE STREET CROSSING—Mr Piccoli to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

2502 PERISHER SEWAGE PLANT SPILL—Ms Seaton to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2503 PERISHER SEWERAGE PLANT SPILL—Ms Seaton to the Minister for Public Works and Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

*2504 EASTERN SUBURBS FERRY SERVICES—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

In relation to Eastern Suburbs ferry services: (1) (a) For weekday journeys in each of the financial years 1999/00 and 2000/01, what are the patronage figures (average passengers per journey) for the Rose Bay/Watsons Bay Ferry Service? (b) For weekend journeys, in each of the financial years 1999/00 and 2000/01, what are the patronage figures (average passengers per journey) for the Rose Bay/Watsons Bay Ferry Service? (2) What has been the on-time running record for the Rose Bay/Watsons Bay Ferry Service for the 2001/02 financial year to date?

Answer—

I am advised by the State Transit Authority that patronage figures for the services requested by the Honourable Member have shown a steady and encouraging increase, as more people examine and take up various public transport options, including ferries. I am also advised that available results for on time running for this service for the current financial year is a pleasing 98.8 per cent.

2505 STUDENT ASSAULTS—Mr Piccoli to the Minister for Education and Training—

2506 VACANT SERGEANTS POSITIONS—Mr Torbay to the Minister for Police— 3436 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

2507 ABOLITION OF BANK ACCOUNT DEBITS TAX—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

2508 DATES OF FINANCIAL REPORTING—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

2509 OVER STRENGTH POLICE STAFFING—Mr Stoner to the Minister for Police—

2510 HOUSING FOR HEALTH PROGRAM—MACLEAY DISTRICT—Mr Stoner to the Minister for

2511 ABORIGINAL HOUSING OFFICE—MACLEAY DISTRICT—Mr Stoner to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

2512 CROC FESTIVAL FUNDING—Mr Slack-Smith to the Minister for Education and Training—

2513 KIAH LONG DAY CARE CENTRE—Mr Slack-Smith to the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women

2514 MURRAY RIVER CROSSING—ECHUCA/MOAMA—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Tourism—

2515 FORSTER PUBLIC SCHOOL LIFT—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Education and Training—

2516 PUBLIC DENTAL CARE—QUEANBEYAN—Mr Webb to the Minister for Health—

2517 SEXUAL ASSAULT COUNSELLING SERVICES IN TUMUT—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Health—

2518 BEEF CATTLE OFFICER IN TUMUT—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

2519 SHOPLIFTING IN GOULBURN—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Police—

2520 CRONULLA POLICE STATION—Mr Kerr to the Minister for Police—

2521 DEMOUNTABLE CLASS ROOMS—SUTHERLAND—Mr Kerr to the Minister for Education and Training— 3437 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

*2522 STATE RAIL PROPERTY—CRONULLA—Mr Kerr to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

What consideration has been given to the sale of State Rail property in the Cronulla electorate?

Answer—

I am advised that the State Rail Authority is undertaking a detailed review of its property portfolio holdings across NSW.

*2523 BONGS—Mr Maguire to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Why is it legal to display and sell ‘Bongs’ used for the consumption of drugs in New South Wales but illegal to use them? (2) Will he take immediate steps to rectify this anomaly?

Answer—

(1) Section 11A of the Drug Misuse and Trafficking Act 1985 makes it an offence to sell, supply or display waterpipes for sale. The section defines a waterpipe as “include(ing) a device known as a bong”. (2) There is no anomaly to rectify.

*2524 ALLIANCE NETWORK INTERNATIONAL—Mr Maguire to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Does he contract the services of Alliance Network International to perform Head Contractors duties for the Department of Housing? (2) Can he explain why Alliance Network International originally paid subcontractors within two weeks of month end and changed to pay 30 days after month end? (3) Why does it now take up to six weeks after month end for subcontractors to be paid? (4) How secure are accounts in arrears of subcontractors if Alliance Network International fail to secure the new head contract which will be allocated in year 2002? (5) Approximately what is the average subcontractor in Southern NSW monthly account in dollars submitted to Alliance Network International? (6) How much is owed to subcontractors 30, 60 and 90 days as of 31 August 2001 by Alliance Network International? (7) Can he explain the obvious deterioration in payment arrangements to subcontractors by Alliance Network International over the past six months? (8) What action does he propose to rectify the late payments to subcontractors and guarantee their overdue accounts should Alliance not be successful in gaining the new head contract?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) Refer to Alliance Network International. (3) Refer to Alliance Network International. (4) Refer to Alliance Network International. (5) Refer Alliance Network International. (6) Refer Alliance Network International. (7) Refer to Alliance Network International. 3438 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(8) If a complaint or information is received by the Department of Housing that calls into question the ability of the head contractor to pay their subcontractor/s, Clause 17.3 of the Maintenance General Conditions of Contract can be invoked up to the end of the contract term.

*2525 M5 PROPERTY VALUE GUARANTEE—Mr O'Farrell to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

How many property owners affected by the M5 East took advantage of the State Government’s ‘property value guarantee’?

117 have taken advantage of the Property Value Guarantee scheme. This scheme will continue until 12 months after the opening of the Motorway to vehicle traffic.

*2526 NATIONAL MONUMENT FOR RAIL WORKERS—WERRIS CREEK—Mr O'Farrell to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) How much money has been allocated to restoring and redeveloping the Werris Creek Railway Station into a National Monument for Railway Workers? (2) When will these monies be made available for this project?

Answer—

Australia's first memorial to rail workers will be built as a result of the work of this Government. It should be noted that I announced on 13 September 2001, five full days before the Honourable Member lodged his question on notice, that $1.3 million had been allocated for the project. For the benefit of the Honourable Member, who is clearly behind the times on this matter, the money will be spent as follows: · $750,000 for an obelisk to honour those who have lost their lives in active service on the railways; · $350,000 for a major upgrade of Werris Creek station; · $200,000 to commence the process of developing a Railway Hall of Fame to commemorate the important history of the district. A committee will be established to oversee the future progress of the Hall of Fame, including members from the Department of Transport, State Rail Authority, local Council and the local MP, Mr Tony Windsor MP. Others will also be invited in due course.

*2527 LIQUOR LICENCES—STATE RAIL PROPERTY—Mr O'Farrell to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Did he in his letter dated 21 August 2001 to Kim Stapleton, Solicitor acting on behalf of Mrs Gesuarda Hopkins, state that the decision to withdraw support for the sale of liquor at the Gosford Railway shop was based on SRA’s obligations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act 1983? (2) What evidence does he rely on to support this claim? (3) What other licensed premises on State Rail property are also earmarked to have their liquor licences withdrawn?

Answer—

(1) Yes. (2) As explained in the letter referred to, the existence of licenced premises in the paid areas of railway stations increases the risk of assault to SRA employees, that people who have exited those licenced premises have a greater risk of self-harm and the consumption of alcohol in such areas increases the likelihood of disputes between SRA patrons, due to the close proximity to the running lines from the 3439 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

paid areas of railway stations. Liability under the legislation is strict liability and SRA needs to take appropriate measures to ensure that it meets its obligations. (3) The bar at Wollongong Station.

2528 MURRAY RIVER CROSSING—ECHUCA/MOAMA—Mr J. H. Turner to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

19 SEPTEMBER 2001

(Paper No. 110)

2529 NUMBER PLATE OBSTRUCTION—Mr Armstrong to the Minister for Police—

2530 McCAFFERTYS/GREYHOUND CENTRAL WEST BUS SERVICES—Mr Armstrong to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

2531 PADP SERVICES IN GOULBURN—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Health—

2532 FUTURE OF CROOKWELL HOSPITAL—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Health—

2533 PHOTO IDENTIFICATION FOR DISABLED PEOPLE—Ms Hodgkinson to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2534 RAIL BRIDGES MAINTENANCE—Mr Stoner to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

2535 RAIL BRIDGES—Mr Stoner to the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

*2536 PACIFIC HIGHWAY UPGRADE AT NABIAC—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Transport, and

When will the actual roadwork for the upgrade of the Pacific Highway at and near Nabiac occur?

Answer—

Planning is currently underway for the upgrade of the Pacific Highway between Bundacree Creek and Possum Brush, which encompasses an upgrade of the Highway at Nabiac. The preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is nearing completion, with a display expected in the near future. An opportunity will be provided at that time for the community to make formal submissions on the proposal. A commencement date for construction is yet to be finalised. The starting date for construction will be determined once the EIS process, including project planning approval, has been completed. 3440 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

* 2537KISSING POINT ROAD INDENTED BUS BAY—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Transport, and

(1) Has he had representations made to him from any persons seeking the provision of an indented bus bay on Kissing Point Road in the vicinity of Dundas Public School? (2) If so, what has been the outcome of any RTA design or safety audit in relation to the proposal? (3) If so, what guidelines would need to be met for the indented bus bay in the vicinity of Dundas Public School for inclusion in a program of works?

Answer—

(1) Following a site meeting, Parramatta City Council submitted a concept plan to the RTA for an indented bus bay to accommodate one bus only, outside Dundas Public School. (2) The RTA undertook an extensive Safety Audit which identified a number of safety issues, including conflict between buses and vehicles entering and leaving the school, limited sighting distances on the western carriageway and lack of provisioning for the queuing of buses. Notwithstanding these significant safety factors, the RTA is prepared to continue working with the Council on this issue. (3) There has already been significant expenditure on Kissing Point Road along this site by both the State Government and the local Council. There is a heavy warning presence on this road of the need for motorists to slow down and drive according to the prevailing conditions, especially in the wet. Recently the road was repaved with a highly skid resistant pavement material called rhyolite, which should assist motorists reduce the incidence of skidding. Road drainage issues, particularly during wet weather have been examined and the number of drainage pits found adequate. However the site will be monitored. A 40km/h zone was instituted and operational for the start of the 2001 school year. An oversize school warning sign was also installed for westbound traffic. The sign was installed on a mast arm that actually hangs over the traffic lanes and is significantly visible. In addition, other warning signs have been installed in both traffic directions. Overhanging vegetation has been trimmed and some median strip vegetation replaced with grass to improve visibility. I am advised that the Roads and Traffic Authority will continue to monitor the situation.

2538 PACIFIC HIGHWAY UPGRADE—MOUNT KARUAH—Mr J. H. Turner to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2539 CANBERRA AIRPORT AIRCRAFT NOISE—Mr Webb to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

2540 DRUG REHABILITATION—ELECTORATE OF MONARO—Mr Webb to the Minister for Health—

2541 OUTSTANDING CORRESPONDENCE—Mr Webb to the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

2542 ALLEGATIONS OF POLICE CORRUPTION—Ms Seaton to the Minister for Police—

2543 ILLEGAL NUMBER PLATES FOR VEHICLES—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads— 3441 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

2544 ACCESS ECONOMICS PUBLICATION—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

2545 PAINTED OR ILLEGAL NUMBER PLATES—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Police—

*2546 TRAIN SERVICES IN THE SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS—Ms Seaton to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Can he confirm that the new timetable due to be published in October/November for trains between the Southern Highlands and Central will now not be published until January 2002? (2) Can he confirm that the new timetable will reflect that a number of train services will continue to operate between Moss Vale and Central without passengers being required to change at Campbelltown or anywhere else en route to the city?

Answer—

(1) to (2) I refer the Honourable Member to my answer to a Question without Notice asked of me in the House on Thursday, 20 September 2001. I also refer to your correspondence to my office dated 20 September 2001 in which you acknowledged my answer and thanked a staff member in my office, Simon Carroll, for his assistance to you in this matter. I repeat the relevant passage of my answer in the House, namely: "I wish to make it clear that every single station in the CityRail network will continue to be served by trains. I should like to deal with the mischievous assertion made by the honourable member for Southern Highlands on her local radio station this morning. I assure the House that CityRail will continue to run trains direct from the Southern Highlands to Central. In fact, the number of carriages will be increased."

*2547 GWYDIR RIVER MANAGEMENT—Mr Slack-Smith to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for

(1) Has the Department of Land and Water Conservation run IQQMs on all regulated river systems based on rainfall rather than river flow? (2) Does this system take adequate account of drought conditions? (3) What margin of error does this system have? (4) Has the Department of Land and Water Conservation altered the cap limit on the Gwydir three times? (5) Has the Department of Land and Water Conservation now finalised the IQQM limitations on regulated and supplementary flow for the Gwydir Valley? (6) Have all but one regulated river valleys expresse their opposition to the cap process? (7) Will you now withdraw this process and recognise the licences issued by the Department of Land and Water Conservation? (8) Has the Department of Land and Water Conservation dishonoured its commitment to the irrigation industry by removing full access to the entitlements previously given? (9) Will you now discontinue this process and honour the Government’s commitment by not imposing a cap any less than the irrigators storage entitlement?

Answer—

(1) Yes, as our rivers are driven by rainfall and evaporation. (2) Yes, the models are configured to consider the worst drought over the last 100 years. (3) The error in the differences between current and benchmark running of the models is expected to be small. It is dependent on good information on on-farm development being provided by water users. 3442 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(4) The Department has made a number of changes to the Gwydir cap estimate as the model has progressed through the developmental stages. (5) The model is approved for evaluation of diversions under cap conditions and evaluating long-term diversions under current conditions. It also allows for supplementary fine-tuning of access rules and limitations if required. (6) A number of river valleys have expressed opposition to the cap process in respect of limitation being placed on their use, but are supportive of restraints being placed on water users in valleys upstream. (7) No (8) No. No licences in any valley have been reduced. (9) No

*2548 GWYDIR RIVER IRRIGATION—Mr Slack-Smith to the Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for

(1) Did seven lay members of the Gwydir (Regulated) River Management Committee fail to attend the 4 September 2001 meeting? (2) Did five other members only attend the meeting part-time? (3) Did three leave at lunch time? (4) Was this meeting to have been the second last meeting before a recommendation was to be made to you on the future of irrigation in the Gwydir Valley? (5) Does the failure of members to attend indicate a failure of process? (6) Will you now abandon the so called community consultation process in favour of negotiation between government and the irrigation industry? (7) Are you aware that despite the Barwon Regional Director of your Department advised the Gwydir (Regulated) River Management Committee on 18 July 2001 that $20,000 was available for triple bottom line research? (8) Are you aware that no money was paid except by the committee? (9) Will you now direct the Department to refund the money to the Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association to meet their necessary expenses in regard to an IQQM review?

Answer—

(1) No. Five members were not present but their apologies were received by the Chair prior to the meeting. (2) No. Two members attended part-time. These were both Councillors with Council commitments. (3) No. Two members left at lunch time to attend a Gwydir Watercourse Landholders meeting which has implications for the Environmental Flow Rules. (4) No. At the previous meeting on 18 July 2001, future meeting dates were set for 4 September 2001 and 20 November 2001. At the September 2001 meeting the committee decided that a meeting in October was necessary and this meeting is scheduled for 31 October 2001. (5) No. Members attend when they are able to do so, and this is an advisory process, described under Section 388 of the Water Management Act 2001. There is no requirement for a quorum in this process and I expect recommendations on occasions will be made outside a quorum. In the committee process, I am tolerant to individual needs and commitments of individuals in going about their private business, although I would be concerned at trends of individual committee members being continuously absent during meetings. (6) No. (7) Yes. The department is prepared to support triple bottom line evaluation of water-sharing rules if the committee makes clear what types of impacts they consider are worthy of investigation. This only becomes apparent when agreement on the rules finally occurs – towards the end of the planning process which is now being reached. 3443 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(8) and (9) I understand that irrigators are graciously prepared to fund half the study, which, at this stage will cost around $35,000. This is truly a good example of government and the community working together.

20 SEPTEMBER 2001

(Paper No. 111)

2549 NSW VALUATION ROLL—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

*2550 NATIONAL COMPETITION POLICY REVIEWS—Mr Debnam to the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

In relation to Premier’s Department Memorandum 2001-10, “National Competition Policy Reviews”: (1) Given the Memorandum says, “Cooperation from agencies will be needed to make this happen, and in some cases your personal intervention may be required”, which Ministers have been asked to personally intervene in order to complete National Competition Policy (NCP) obligations? (2) Which agencies failed to meet the 31 August 2001 deadline for submission of proposals to the Cabinet Office?

Answer—

(1) Memorandum 2001-10 was issued to all Ministers as a reminder of the NSW Government’s commitments under National Competition Policy (NCP). No Minister has been asked to personally intervene in order to complete NCP obligations. (2) The 31 August 2001 deadline is an internal Government due date as per operational requirements. All agencies are working towards the completion of NCP reviews by the 30 June 2002 deadline agreed by the Council of Australian Governments.

2551 INSURANCE PROTECTION TAX—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

2552 EXTENSION OF EXPLORATION LICENCE 5552—Mr Souris to the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs, representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

2553 EXPLORATION LICENCE 5552—OPEN CUT MINING—Mr Souris to the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs, representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

2554 EXPLORATION LICENCE 5552—WINE MAKING AND TOURISM—Mr Souris to the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs, representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries—

2555 EXPLORATION LICENCE 5552—LANDOWNER COMPENSATION—Mr Souris to the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs, representing the Minister for Mineral Resources and Minister for Fisheries— 3444 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

2556 PARKING PATROL OFFICERS—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Police—

2557 NURSING RESTRUCTURE IN GOULBURN—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Health—

*2558 FUTURE OF YASS JUNCTION RAILWAY STATION—Ms Hodgkinson to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Are there any plans to downgrade Yass Junction Railway Station to unstaffed status? (2) Are there any plans to change train schedules so that passengers will no longer be able to embark on trains at Yass Junction Railway Station? (3) Will he give a commitment that Yass Junction Railway Station will remain at its existing level of staffing and operation?

Answer—

I am advised by the State Rail Authority of the following: (1) No. (2) No. (3) I am advised by Countrylink that current levels of staffing and operation at Yass Junction Railway Station will be maintained for the foreseeable future. I am advised that Countrylink currently has no plans to downgrade Yass Junction Railway Station to unstaffed status.

2559 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING—SWIMMING POOLS—Mr Humpherson to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

2560 ABORIGINAL HOUSING TENANTS—Mr Humpherson to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

*2561 PUBLIC HOUSING ELIGIBILITY—Mr Humpherson to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) How many tenants are signed on the tenancy agreement for 13/172-176 Silvania Road, Miranda? (2) Does Ms Wendy Davies live with Mr Norm Davies at 13/172-176 Silvania Road, Miranda in a Department of Housing property? (3) Is Ms Wendy Davies on the tenancy agreement? (4) Has the Department received complaints about the occupants of 13/172-176 Silvania Road, Miranda? (5) If yes, what has been the nature of the complaints? (6) Have the tenants in 13/172-176 Silvania Road, Miranda been cautioned for using the electricity and refrigerator in the area’s common room for personal use? (7) If yes, why were they cautioned? (8) Does the Department of Housing use the criteria that if tenants are seen to have a brand new car, an overseas holiday and new furniture it would request documents to reassess eligibility for housing? (9) Are Department of Housing tenants, who are on full British pensions, eligible for public housing? (10) Are Department of Housing tenants in Silvania Street units allowed to have pets? 3445 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

Answer—

(1) The provisions of the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 precludes comment on this question. (2) to ( 7) Refer to (1) (8) No. (9) To be eligible for public housing a person must, amongst other things, be a citizen or a permanent resident and must meet the income criteria. (10) Yes.

2562 INMATES MEDICAL CIRCUMSTANCES—Mr Humpherson to the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Corrective Services, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

2563 MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS OF YOUNG PEOPLE—Mr Hazzard to the Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

2564 DRUG REHABILITATION—ELECTORATE OF CRONULLA—Mr Kerr to the Minister for Health—

2565 CRIMESTOPPERS—Mr Maguire to the Minister for Police—

2566 SCHOOLS CAPITAL FUNDING—Mr Maguire to the Minister for Education and Training—

2567 OVERPAID PAYROLL TAX REFUNDS—Mr O'Doherty to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

2568 HORNSBY HOSPITAL—Mr O'Doherty to the Minister for Health—

2569 STATE DENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM—NORTHERN RIVERS AREA HEALTH SERVICE ALLOCATIONS—Mr D. L. Page to the Minister for Health—

2570 NORTHERN SYDNEY AREA HEALTH SERVICE—DRUG AND ALCOHOL PROGRAMS—Mr O'Farrell to the Minister for Health—

*2571 TURRAMURRA RAILWAY STATION—EASY ACCESS—Mr O'Farrell to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

When will Turramurra Railway Station be included in CityRail’s Easy Access Program?

Answer—

The State Rail Authority advises that Turramurra Railway Station will be considered in the development of future years’ Easy Access programs. Information on the current Easy Access program is contained in the 2001/02 Budget Paper No. 4. 3446 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

2572 SCHOOL HALLS—ELECTORATE OF MYALL LAKES—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for

2573 NATIONAL PARKS—FERAL PIGS—Mr Webb to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

2574 FORESTRY FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE—Mr Webb to the Minister for Information Technology, Minister for Energy, Minister for Forestry, and Minister for Western Sydney—

2575 SOUTHERN AREA HEALTH SERVICE AND ACT HOSPITAL TREATMENT—Mr Webb to the

*2576 COLOUR VERGE LINES—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Has he or the Department received any suggestions that different colours be used on verge lines or separation lines on multi lane roads to indicate different speed zones operating in those particular areas? (2) If so: (a) What consideration has been given to that suggestion? (b) Will he be carrying out any action in that regard? (c) When?

Answer—

(1) and (2) Numerous suggestions regarding the use of coloured road markings have been received. However, the suggestion of using coloured road markings to denote certain road characteristics, in particular speed limits, has several practical constraints. These include variations in the abilities of individuals to distinguish colours, the need to maintain consistency of standards across different jurisdictions and the considerable increased cost of installation and maintenance. The RTA linemarks all roads according to the Australian Design Standards which ensure national consistency. Currently other colours are used to indicate other road characteristics, such as red being used to indicate some parking zones. It is considered that it would be impractical and confusing to drivers if linemarking were to be used for another purpose, such as indicating speed limits.

*2577 BUCKETTS WAY UPGRADE—Mr J. H. Turner to the Minister for Transport, and Minister for

(1) As part of the Bucketts Way upgrade project, for which funding is received by the State Government, has it been a requirement by the RTA that councils involved employ an engineer and on-site supervisor for the project? (2) If so: (a) Why? (b) Will there be any cost to the councils? (c) Will any cost be taken from the funding received for the Bucketts Way improvements?

Answer—

(1) The councils were encouraged and agreed to undertake the project management for the works, and subsequently engaged an engineer and on-site supervisor. 3447 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(2) (a) So that the project could be effectively managed and to maximise the benefits of the available funding. (b) to (c)The cost of appropriate project management resources is a legitimate cost to the project and would be shared between the RTA and the councils.

21 SEPTEMBER 2001

(Paper No. 112)

2578 PRIVACY COMMISSIONER REPORT—Mr Webb to the Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

*2579 PRIVACY AND PERSONAL INFORMATION AND PROTECTION ACT 1998—Mr Webb to the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Pursuant to the Privacy and Personal Information and Protection Act 1998, what authority does the Privacy Commissioner have to require Local Government Councils to comply with the orders of the Commission? (2) If a Local Government Council is obliged to comply with the orders of the Privacy Commission under which section of the Local Government Act 1993 is the obligation described? (3) What action will you take with respect to the Report tabled on Tuesday 18 September 2001 in this Parliament by NSW Privacy Commissioner entitled “Special Report No.1 to the NSW Parliament under section 65 of the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998” dated September 2001, regarding the affairs of Queanbeyan City Council?

Answer—

(1) The Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 does not provide a mechanism to require a Local Government Council to comply with recommendations or orders of the Privacy Commissioner. (2) Not applicable. (3) Implementation of the recommendations of the Privacy Commissioner’s Special Report in relation to the affairs of Queanbeyan City Council is a matter for the Council and the parties concerned.

2580 LEVY ON CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY—Mr Webb to the Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

2581 INFRASTRUCTURE ADVISORY UNIT—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council—

2582 ECONOMICS REPORT—Mr Debnam to the Minister for Education and Training, representing the Treasurer, Minister for State Development and Vice-President of the Executive Council— 3448 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

*2583 PUBLISHED GOVERNMENT POLICY—Mr Debnam to the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

In relation to published Government policy: (1) (a) Is he aware of twenty eight policies that currently appear on the website: www.nswalp.com? (b) Which if any of these twenty eight policies are currently endorsed by your Government? (c) Given that these policies are ascribed to the Government and that the website displays your photo, will you arrange to remove those policies not supported by your Government?

Answer—

(1) (a) to (c) The ALP Web Site is administered by the ALP (NSW Branch).

16 OCTOBER 2001

(Paper No. 113)

2584 NSWAG YASS OFFICE STAFFING—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water Conservation—

(1) Is he aware that the Office Assistant at the NSW Agriculture Office in Yass has resigned effective Friday 19 October 2001 and these duties will not be covered by temporary staff until the position is filled after Christmas? (2) Is he further aware of the significant concern of many local landholders that the decision by NSW Agriculture not to employ temporary replacement staff will mean a decrease in the ability of the remaining staff to respond to their concerns? (3) Will he instruct NSW Agriculture to employ temporary staff until the position of Clerical Officer can be filled on a permanent basis?

2585 MULWAREE HIGH SCHOOL—WATER MAINS—Ms Hodgkinson to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Is he aware that Mulwaree High School was closed for the first day of the current school term because of a burst water main? (2) I refer to your answer to my question 1288 of 27 February 2001, has a tender for a total permanent replacement water main for Mulwaree High School been called for? (3) When will the permanent replacement work be completed? (4) Why, when the Department of Education and Training has been aware of this problem since April 1998, has this work not yet been completed?

2586 JUSTICE OF THE PEACE APPOINTMENTS—Ms Hodgkinson to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) Will he confirm that he intends to change the tenure of Justices of the Peace from lifetime appointments to five year terms? (2) When will these proposed changes be introduced? 3449 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

2587 SCHOOL ROAD SAFETY—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Are there in existence classification or prioritisation lists that relate to the implementation of road safety measures near schools? (2) If so, how many such lists exist? (3) If so, what criteria are used to place schools on these lists? (4) If so, under what circumstances are schools moved from one of these lists to another? (5) If such lists do not exist, what criteria are used to prioritise schools with regard to the need for safety issues to be addressed?

2588 NERONG BUS STOP—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) Has the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) agreed to the widening of the northbound shoulder of the Pacific Highway just north of Whimbrel Drive at Nerong to accommodate a bus stop bay? (2) If so, when will the work be carried out to allow the bus stop bay to be completed?

2589 GREAT LAKES LGA—Mr J. H. Turner to Minister for Health—

In answer to question 2127 of 5 September 2001, you stated that “the Great Lakes LGA had approximately 30,940 usual residents. After accounting for different usage patterns across age groups, Great Lakes residents accounted for approximately 11,200 (27.7%) of Manning Base Hospitals total catchment population”: (1) What “different usage patterns across age groups” is used? (2) How are such “different usage patterns across age groups” determined? (3) Who determines the “estimated catchment population” for the Great Lakes (4) How is the “estimated catchment population” determined?

2590 CATTLE TICK PROGRAM—Mr George to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and Water

In correspondence signed by the Minister dated 17 September to myself it states that the budget for the Cattle Tick Program for 1999/2000 was $7,121,807. Could further detail be provided of this exact expenditure?

2591 COMMUNITY DRUG ACTION TEAMS—Mr George to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

(1) How many Community Drug Action Teams (CDATs) are in NSW? (2) Where are they situated? (3) Of these CDATs: (a) How many people are genuine community representatives? (b) How many people are employed or receive support through government positions or government funded organisations?

2592 QUEANBEYAN YOUTH RESOURCES INCORPORATED—Mr Webb to Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) Can she advise why her Department took such harsh action against the Board of Queanbeyan Youth Resources Incorporated? (2) What factors led her Departmental officers to assume the Board guilty of allegations prior to the allegations being proven or disproved? (3) Can she provide evidence that any of the allegations made against the Board of Queanbeyan Youth Resources Incorporated were proven? If so, what is that evidence? 3450 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(4) Can she advise why the Board was forced to relinquish management? (5) Can she guarantee future funding for the current 5-8 youth places provided in Queanbeyan at the Department’s present properties in Kathleen Street and White Avenue Queanbeyan? (6) If the answer to (5) above is yes, will she guarantee that the service will be run by a local community group rather than a state or national provider of welfare services? (7) What alternative arrangements have been made for the youths housed by QYR at the time of closure? (8) When will the youth refuges in Queanbeyan re-open? (9) In the meantime what assistance is available to troubled or displaced youths in Queanbeyan?

2593 MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES IN QUEANBEYAN—Mr Webb to Minister for Health—

(1) Can he advise what present arrangements are in place for usage of premises owned by Southern Area Health Service in Queanbeyan, which are managed by the Mental Health Service and known as Willowview, Ford Street, Queanbeyan? (2) Why were the occupants of Willowview moved to alternative accommodation if in fact the Willowview property is to be maintained? (3) What support was provided to the residents of Willowview and the support staff to pack, relocate and unpack all the goods and chattels? (4) Is it true that the residents of Willowview did not have available to them the normal facilities of an equipped kitchen during the first 24-hours in their new residences? (5) If the answer to (4) above is yes, why, and how could a professional team of health experts allow such an incident when these residents particularly require this type of support and familiarity to maintain stability? (6) Is it true that a member of SAHS Mental Health team is now being housed in Willowview? (7) If the answer to (6) above is yes, then why is that necessary and what rent is being paid? (8) If the answer to (6) above is no, then for what purpose is the staff member using the property? (9) If the property is being used as office accommodation, why is that necessary? (10) If the answer to (6) is yes, then why isn’t the whole of the mental health team located in the one place and when will he provide sufficient funding for suitable clinical administration premises for the Queanbeyan District Health Service and Mental Health Service?

2594 MENANGLE PUBLIC SCHOOL SITE—Ms Seaton to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Was the Menangle Public School site a gift from a private estate to the community? (2) If so, what were the details of this gift/donation? (3) Were there any conditions placed on the use of the land, such as for educational use? (4) What were the detailed issues regarding the certainty of title to this land that the Crown Solicitor gave advice upon? (5) Why was title not clear?

2595 PUBLIC HOUSING PROPERTIES—OXLEY ELECTORATE—Mr Stoner to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

Can he provide details, including numbers and addresses, of public housing properties sold or for sale in the Oxley Electorate for the years 1999/2000, 2000/2001/and 2001/2002?

2596 CRONULLA POLICE—Mr Kerr to Minister for Police—

(1) What is the breakdown of police ranks at Miranda Local Area Command? (2) Of this number, how many Constables are allocated to Cronulla Police Station at any one time? (3) Of this number, how many Sergeants are allocated to Cronulla Police Station at any one time? 3451 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(4) Of this number, how many Senior Sergeants are allocated to Cronulla Police Station at any one time? (5) Of this number, how many Detectives are allocated to Cronulla Police Station at any one time?

2597 YOUTH TASKFORCE—Mr Brogden to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

In relation to the youth taskforce established to co-ordinate assistance for vulnerable young people in their fight against drugs: (1) Who is on the taskforce? (2) What groups are represented on the taskforce? (3) How is the taskforce funded? (4) What is the total funding that will be received by the taskforce over the current financial year? (5) What is the exact brief or terms of reference for the taskforce?

2598 PRIMARY CONNECT PILOT PROGRAM—Mr Brogden to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

In relation to the Primary Connect pilot program: (1) What does the pilot seek to achieve? (2) Where does it operate? (3) How is it funded? (4) What is the total funding that will be received by the pilot program over the current financial year?

2599 FORMER MINISTER BRIAN LANGTON—Mrs Chikarovski to Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for Citizenship—

(1) Since March 1999, what State Government boards or committee has the former Minister Brian Langton been appointed to? (2) On what terms, conditions and financial remuneration were these appointments? (3) Who made these appointments? (4) Are these positions still being currently held by Mr Langton? (5) Since March 1999 what positions, including consultancies, has the former Minister Langton been appointed to by the State Government? (6) On what terms, conditions and financial entitlements were these appointments? (7) Who made these appointments? (8) Are these positions still being currently held by Mr Langton? (9) Apart from his parliamentary pension and associated entitlements, since March 1999 has Mr Langton received, or still receiving, other entitlements, or remuneration from the State Government? If so what are the details?

2600 AVO LAWS—Mrs Chikarovski to Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

(1) In the period May 2000 to May 2001 how many stalkers have been sentenced to jail for causing their victims psychological distress, following new apprehended violence order (AVO) laws? (2) In the period May 2001 to October 2001 how many stalkers have been sentenced to jail for causing their victimcs psychological distress, following new AVO laws? (3) In the period May 2000 to May 2001 how many AVO applications have been referred for mediation? (4) In the period May 2001 to October 2001 how many AVO applications have been referred for mediation 3452 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

2601 LAPTOP COMPUTERS—Mrs Chikarovski to Minister for Education and Training—

(1) In the period February 2001 until September 2001, how many teachers have received a laptop computer from the Department of Education? (2) In the 2001/2002 financial year to date, how many teachers have received a laptop computer from the Department of Education? (3) In the 2001/2002 financial year to date, how many teachers are scheduled to receive a laptop computer from the Department of Education? (4) What is the current state of negotiations over the supply of a laptop computer for every public school teacher in NSW? (5) What are the possible financial options being considered for the supply of a laptop computer for every public school teacher in NSW?

2602 SPEED CAMERAS—Mr Collins to Ministe

(1) Are speed cameras regularly deployed along Eastern Valley Way within the Willoughby Electorate? (2) How does the road accident rate along Eastern Valley Way compare with other high volume, fast flowing arterial roads on the lower North Shore? (3) Is there evidence that speed cameras deployed on Eastern Valley Way actually reduce the road toll? (4) If so, will permanent full time speed cameras – some real, some dummy cameras – be placed there?

2603 STAFF TRAVEL—Mr O'Farrell to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) In the period September 2000 to September 2001, how many cabcharges were used by your Ministerial Office? (2) In the period September 2000 to September 2001, what was the total cost of the cabcharges being used by your Ministerial Office? (3) Are staff members in your Ministerial Office issued with passes for free or subsidised public transport in NSW? (4) If so, on what terms and conditions are these issued? (5) If so, what is the estimated cost to the Government of these passes?

2604 MINISTERIAL TRAVEL—Mr Richardson to Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Tourism—

(1) What were the positive outcomes and achievements from your trip to the United States, Germany and the United Kingdom between February 29 and March 20 2000? (2) What tourism initiatives have been put in place as a result of your trip? (3) How many additional tourists do you estimate have been attracted to New South Wales as a result of your trip? (4) What tourism benefits resulted from your visit to the New York Stock Exchange on March 8 2000? (5) What did you do on the weekend of Saturday March 4 and Sunday March 5 2000? (6) What programmes have been put in place in New South Wales as a result of your visit to Covent Garden, London on Sunday, March 18 2000? 3453 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

2605 WASHINGTON VISIT—Mr Richardson to Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Tourism—

(1) What were the positive outcomes and achievements from your trip to Washington from September 4-10 2000? (2) What tourism initiatives have been put in place as a result of your trip? (3) How many additional tourists or conventioneers do you estimate have been attracted to New South Wales as a result of your trip?

2606 MINISTERIAL TRAVEL TRIP TO INDIA—Mr Richardson to Minister for Small Business, and

(1) What were the positive outcomes and achievements from your trip to India between 17-24 March 2001? (2) What additional business has been attracted New South Wales as a result of your trip?

2607 NSOOS TUNNEL ETHICS COMMITTEE—Mr Collins to Deputy Premier, Minister for Urban Affairs and Planning, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister for Housing—

(1) Because of the experimental/unique status of the Northside Storage Tunnel, was an ethics committee set up to review the objectives and procedures of operating the NSOOS Tunnel system: (a) During unpredictably severe peak storm events? (b) Without previous full scale trials using uncontaminated water with leak-indicating additives? (c) Without any legal protection provided by an operating licence? (d) Transporting millions of tonnes of potentially toxic overflows under private and public property? (2) (a) Who were the members of this committee? (b) Did they represent particular interests and if so were there any possibilities of conflict of interest? (c) Were there independent representatives of the public on the committee? (d) What access to technical advice did the committee have? (3) (a) Was there an independent consultant’s view of the EIS before the ethics committee reviewed the procedure? (b) Did that review include a full examination of changes of actual construction from the EIS (such as the changes in tunnel diameters)? (c) Did the consultant’s review examine, and reach scientific certainty, on health issues raised in the EIS and the parliamentary inquiry? (4) (a) Was a list of unknown factors drawn up that were to be evaluated by the experiments? (b) Did it include a list of matters of public safety and/or public concern? (5) Were all matters of uncertainty and public concern raised in the Parliamentary inquiry into the system included in the factors to be evaluated, including all matters covered in submissions and minority reports? (6) To which unknown factors and in what way did the ethics committee apply the “precautionary principles” to control and safely stage the test procedures? (7) (a) Were any manuals or legislation on risk management principles or procedures followed? (b) Were graphical relationships between frequency of occurrence and severity of damage produced for the variety of factors being examined by the experiments? (8) (a) Was the method of “receiver operating characteristic” employed to show the relationship of false alarms, failure to detect and signal alert of abnormal operation, etc. resulting from the experimental results? (b) Have costs or insurance risk valuations been determined for failures and false alarms and expected frequency of occurrence? 3454 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

(9) Were differing numbers and severities of storm events required to reach numerically specified “statistical confidence intervals” of certainty with respect to the factors to be determined? (10) What is the present status of the experiments: which factors have been fully investigated and when will each of the remaining issues be determined to a confidence interval level justifying conclusion of the experiment?

2608 CROWN ROAD MAINTENANCE—Mr Webb to Minister for Agriculture, and Minister for Land and

(1) Are you aware that the Crown Road running off the Beloka (Dalgety) Road and leading to the property of Mr and Mrs Bruce Hodge and on to the Snowy River and used for access by your Department and other Government Departments and agencies is in need of repairs and ongoing maintenance work? (2) Can he advise if his Department intends to provide any maintenance and upgrading to this Crown Road? (3) If so, how much will be spent and how regularly will this road be given maintenance? (4) Are there any liability or indemnity problems associated with repairs and maintenance work carried out on a Crown Road leading to, but not through, the private property that the Crown Road provides access to?

2609 GRADUATED LICENSING SCHEME PARENT WORKSHOP PROGRAM—Mr Torbay to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

(1) With regard to Recommendation A in relation to driver and rider education and behaviour (Pages v and vi – Recommendations) can you explain how the RTA will be ‘strengthening the focus on young drivers’ motivations, their attitudes and the risks confronting road users’? (2) How will the community be informed about the “best practice guidelines…for use in community- based safe driving programs for novice drivers?” (3) When and where will “the Graduated Licensing Scheme Parent Workshop Program” be organised in rural New South Wales? (4) When will the “Traffic Offenders Program for serious offenders” be available in Northern New South Wales and how can interested communities discover details of this program?

2610 COUNCIL ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE—Mr Maguire to Minister for Local Government, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) If an elected Council wishes to determine a new organisation structure should it be conducted as Section 333 status within 12 months of a general election? (2) If a Council wished to conduct a determination to alter the organisation’s structure following the expiry of the statutory 12 months in Section 333, what steps should a Council take? (3) What legal requirements in complying with the Act are necessary for a Council that wishes to re- determine its organisation structure? (4) What difficulties can a Council expect to encounter if the Act is not complied with in accordance with your answers to (2) and (3) above?

2611 STUDENT BUS TRANSPORT—Mr Maguire to Minister for Transport, and Minister for Roads—

How much money is expended on free bus transport for school students in the Local Government areas of Wagga Wagga, Tumbarumba, Holbrook and Lockhart in one financial year? 3455 LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS Wednesday 17 October 2001

2612 PRE-SCHOOL FUNDING—Mr Maguire to Minister for Community Services, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Women—

(1) What criteria was used to determine which pre-schools in the Riverina would benefit from recently announced funding ($217,908)? (2) How did pre-schools apply for the supplementary funding? (3) How was the availability of funding advertised?

______Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales