COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES

SENATE Official Hansard

MONDAY, 9 AUGUST 1999

THIRTY-NINTH PARLIAMENT FIRST SESSION—FOURTH PERIOD

BY AUTHORITY OF THE SENATE CANBERRA CONTENTS

MONDAY, 9 AUGUST

Senators: Swearing-in ...... 6995 President: Election ...... 6995 Presentation to Governor-General ...... 6998 Commission to Administer Oath or Affirmation ...... 6998 Election of Deputy President and Chair of Committees 6998 Ministerial Arrangements ...... 6999 Condolences— Interlaken Tragedy ...... 7002 Newman, Hon. Kevin Eugene, AO ...... 7002 Bishop, Hon. Reginald, AO ...... 7011 Mackay, Hon. Malcolm George, AM ...... 7020 Nuclear Weapons ...... 7022 Petitions— Student Unionism ...... 7022 Genetically Engineered Food ...... 7022 Sexuality Discrimination ...... 7022 Genetically Engineered Food ...... 7023 World Heritage Area: Great Barrier Reef ...... 7023 East Timor ...... 7023 Goods and Services Tax: Tasmania ...... 7023 Nuclear Weapons ...... 7024 Uranium: World Heritage Areas ...... 7024 Uranium: World Heritage Areas ...... 7024 Parliamentary Contributory Superannuation Scheme ...... 7024 The President: Election ...... 7025 Notices— Presentation ...... 7025 Business— First Speeches ...... 7027 Committees— Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee—Meeting . . . 7028 Notices— Presentation ...... 7029 Postponements ...... 7029 Business— Days and Hours of Meeting and Routine of Business ...... 7029 Fishing: Imports of Canadian Uncooked Salmon ...... 7029 Documents— Business of the Senate ...... 7029 Questions on Notice ...... 7029 Tabling ...... 7029 Auditor-General’s Reports— Report No. 5 of 1999-2000 ...... 7030 Report No. 1 of 1999-2000 ...... 7030 Report No. 4 of 1999-2000 ...... 7032 Report No. 6 of 1999-2000 ...... 7033 Constitution Alteration (Establishment of Republic) 1999 7033 Presidential Nominations Committee Bill 1999— Report of Republic Referendum Committee ...... 7033 Committees— Membership ...... 7040 Assent to Laws ...... 7040 Statute Stocktake Bill 1999, Law and Justice Legislation Amendment Bill 1999, Australian Sports Commission Amendment Bill 1999— First Reading ...... 7042 Second Reading ...... 7042 Bills Returned from The House of Representatives ...... 7045 CONTENTS—continued

Regional Forest Agreements Bill 1998— Second Reading ...... 7045 Adjournment— Information Technology: Access ...... 7068 Brown, Mr Leo ...... 7070 Interlaken: Ecumenical Service ...... 7072 Financial Counselling Services ...... 7073 Documents— Tabling ...... 7077 Indexed Lists of Files ...... 7079 Proclamations ...... 7079 Questions On Notice— Treasury: Accrual Accounting—(Question No. 548) ...... 7080 Aged Care Centres: Nursing Staff—(Question No. 593) ...... 7080 Aviation: Incident at Cairns Airport—(Question No. 683) ...... 7081 Minister for Industry, Science and Resources: Cost of Dinners and Functions—(Question No. 720) ...... 7082 Minister for the Arts and the Centenary of Federation: Cost of Functions and Dinners—(Question No. 721) ...... 7083 Child Support Payments—(Question No. 1008) ...... 7084 Tasmanian Regional Forest Agreement—(Question No. 1088) ...... 7084 Sun Healthcare—(Question No. 1090) ...... 7085 O’Connor Meats: Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service Officers—(Question No. 1092) ...... 7086 Australian Meat Safety Enhancement Program—(Question No. 1093) . 7086 Midfield Meat: Australian Quarantine and Inspection Service Officers—(Question No. 1094) ...... 7087 Tasmania: Television Reception—(Question No. 1099) ...... 7087 Department of Trade: Grants to the Electorate of Bass— (Question No. 1100) ...... 7088 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs: Grants to the Electorate of Bass—(Question No. 1114) ...... 7089 Long Day Care Centres: Accreditation—(Question No. 1120) ...... 7089 Long Day Care: Enrolments—(Question No. 1121) ...... 7093 Long Day Care: Enrolments—(Question No. 1122) ...... 7094 Sri Lanka: Australian Humanitarian Aid—(Question No. 1123) ..... 7095 Savengal Pty Ltd: Donations to the Australian Labor Party— (Question No. 1125) ...... 7096 Department of Family and Community Services: Environmental Efficiency Enhancements—(Question No. 1135) ...... 7096 Department of Family and Community Services: Annual Report— (Question No. 1137) ...... 7096 Goods and Services Tax: Funding for the Alice Springs to Darwin Railway—(Question No. 1149) ...... 7096 COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES SENATE Hansard 1999 FIRST SESSION OF THE THIRTY-NINTH PARLIAMENT (FOURTH PERIOD)

Monday, 9 August 1999 South Australia—Amanda Vanstone, Nick Bolkus, Nick Minchin, John Quirke, Meg Lees, Alan Ferguson The Senate met at 2.00 p.m. Tasmania—Kerry O’Brien, Eric Abetz, Shayne Murphy, Brian Gibson, Kay Denman, Brian SENATORS: SWEARING-IN Harradine His Excellency the Hon. Sir William Patrick Victoria—Stephen Conroy, Judith Troeth, Kim Deane, Companion of the Order of Australia, Carr, Julian McGauran, Jacinta Collins, Tsebin Knight Commander of the Order of the Tchen British Empire, Governor-General of the Western Australia—Christopher Ellison, Peter Commonwealth of Australia, entered the Cook, Ian Campbell, Christopher Evans, Brian chamber and, taking his seat on the dais, said: Greig, Susan Knowles Honourable senators: The abovenamed senators made and sub- scribed the oath or affirmation of allegiance. I am present to administer to senators elected to serve in the Senate from 1 July His Excellency the Governor-General 1999, the oath or affirmation of allegiance, as having retired— required by section 42 of the Constitution. PRESIDENT: ELECTION The Clerk produced and laid on the table the certificates of election of senators elected Senator HILL (South Australia—Leader of to serve in the Senate for the respective states the Government in the Senate) (2.18 p.m.)— from 1 July 1999. He also laid on the table a Mr Clerk, I remind the Senate that the time copy of the order of the Court of Disputed has come when it is necessary for the Senate Returns of 2 July 1999 relating to the return to choose one of its members to be President. of Senator Harris as a senator for the state of I propose to the Senate for its President, Queensland: Senator Reid, and I move: New South Wales—Stephen Patrick Hutchins, That Senator Reid take the chair of the Senate as William Daniel Heffernan, John Philip Faulkner, President. John William Tierney, Aden Derek Ridgeway, Michael George Forshaw The Clerk—Are there any further nomina- Queensland—Jan Elizabeth McLucas, Warwick tions? There being no further nominations, in Raymond Parer, Leonard William Harris, Joseph accordance with the standing orders Senator William Ludwig, Brett John Mason, John Reid is elected President and will take the Woodley chair. 6996 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

Senator Reid having been conducted to the you have correctly said, it is not always easy. dais— We do all sit in a chamber where no one The PRESIDENT—I thank the Senate for party has a majority on the floor of the the honour bestowed upon me. I am very chamber and that of course means that those conscious of the role of this chamber and the who are responsible for presiding here have difficulties that from time to time we face a particularly difficult and onerous task. As being a chamber where no group has a ma- far as the opposition is concerned—and I am jority. I think, on balance, it works together sure this is a view shared by all senators—we extremely well. I have enjoyed the three years acknowledge that you undertake that task and that I have been the Presiding Officer of this try to ensure that you preside with impartiali- chamber. I look forward to serving again and ty, with fairness, with even-handedness. It is I thank you for electing me. our expectation that you will continue in that regard in the next term and, Madam President, Senator HILL (South Australia—Minister you will do so with the support and the for the Environment and Heritage) (2.20 cooperation of Labor senators. We wish you p.m.)—Madam President, on behalf of well for the three years ahead. government senators, I congratulate you on your election as President. You have clearly Senator LEES (South Australia—Leader of received a vote of confidence from all sena- the Australian Democrats) (2.23 p.m.)—I rise tors today. I think that is a demonstration of on behalf of the Democrats to congratulate the fact that, in the eyes of all senators, you and to say on behalf of everyone that we during your first term you served this institu- have experienced your even-handedness and tion well with both dignity and professional- indeed we look forward to working with you ism. as President of this chamber for the next three Madam President, I think we all recognise years. We all pledge our support and cooper- that chairing the Senate is becoming a more ation as we all work to uphold standing orders challenging task, perhaps a reflection of this to the best of our ability at times which can chamber becoming more of a house of become a touch difficult. But we do con- government than was its design. Nevertheless, gratulate you on the excellent job that you with the numbers as they are, the task of have done over the previous three years. I holding your office and managing the cham- think the fact that you have stood unopposed ber is something of a challenge. There is on is a good indication of your very high stand- occasions in those circumstances advice given ing with all of us in this chamber. We wish to you by honourable senators as to how to you well and, on behalf of the Democrats, I manage the Senate in these somewhat difficult pledge our cooperation and support to get circumstances. I suggest that perhaps if all those standing orders adhered to. honourable senators were to take this occasion Senator BOSWELL (Queensland—Leader to commit themselves to respect the office of of the National Party of Australia in the the President then your task would be easier Senate and Parliamentary Secretary to the and then we would all be contributing to Minister for Transport and Regional Services) ensuring that the chamber retains, in the eyes (2.23 p.m.)—Congratulations, Madam Presi- of the Australian community, the high stand- dent, on your unopposed election. I believe ing that it has deserved over a long period of that shows you do have the support of the time. Madam President, as I said, we con- whole Senate and you should be very pleased gratulate you on being re-elected. We wish that you have been unanimously elected. Your you well in your second term. rulings over the last three years have been fair Senator FAULKNER (New South Wales— and impartial as you strive to keep control, as Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) (2.21 you said, in a house that does not have a p.m.)—Madam President, on behalf of opposi- majority, and you have done it skilfully and tion senators, I congratulate you on your well. On behalf of National Party senators, I election to this high office. It is a very im- congratulate you and we are very happy that portant office in the Australian parliament. As you have been elected unopposed. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 6997

Senator BROWN (Tasmania) (2.24 p.m.)— and groups this afternoon. I do reiterate that Madam President, congratulations. You have I am very honoured to be in this position. I been an excellent and impressive President. I regard it as essential that I deal with all 75 of cannot guarantee that in the heat of debate my colleagues absolutely equally and I cer- while remembering the reasons that some- tainly hope I have done that and will continue times fire the passion I will always abide by to do so. I think it is important for our the rules, but I am glad to know that you will parliamentary democracy that the Senate does be there to remind me, if necessary, and other what it does as efficiently as possible and that senators. You do an excellent job. Congratula- it also continues to do the things that it does tions. well and has done well, such as the Senator HARRADINE (Tasmania) (2.25 Parliamentary Education Program. p.m.)—Madam President, congratulations on Over 300,000 students have visited Parlia- being re-elected unanimously to that import- ment House in the last three years and two- ant office. Over the last 24 years that I have thirds of them have participated in the Parlia- been serving in this place there have been a mentary Education Program. It is a program few Presidents come and go. You are up there that other parliaments look at and some are amongst the best of them. We are all very imitating and putting in place as they recog- conscious of the fact that being elected to this nise the importance of young people under- chamber imposes a great deal of responsibility standing how it works. The Senate has con- on us as well as on you. We need to be tinued with the Occasional Lecture Series, and absolutely sure in the period ahead particular- there have been some 30 since I was elected ly that we do hold the executive government to office in August 1996. That will continue. accountable to the elected representatives of I believe that too is an important program. the people. You belong to the party that happens to be It is also of course through the work of the in government. But you have always, as I committees that the public, to a very great have seen, exercised your responsibilities in extent, has an opportunity to interact with the a very impartial and apolitical manner. For parliament. I know it is arduous for commit- that, you are indeed to be congratulated. We, tees to travel as they have to, but I do believe on our part, and you, most of all, need to be that it is important that senators make them- aware of the fact that, as has been referred to selves available, as they do, to travel on by the Leader of the Government in the committees to enable constituents in far flung Senate, this place has acted over the past few places to be able to interact with the Senate years and will act in the next few years in a and the work that it does. The Senate has in manner that has changed the course of quite this period introduced a web site giving a large number of pieces of legislation. In access to all proceedings of the Senate and those circumstances, I believe it is vital for particularly the committees and has also your impartiality and for your balance to be placed the Australasian Federal Convention at the forefront of the procedures in this debates on the web site so an even greater chamber. Congratulations and I wish you number of people are able to be involved. well. I particularly want to welcome the seven Senator HARRIS (Queensland) (2.27 new senators who have been sworn in today. p.m.)—Madam President, on behalf of Pauline I trust that they will enjoy the opportunity Hanson’s One Nation, I would like to con- that they have been given to serve their gratulate you on your election to the role of electorates and to listen to those who have President. I look forward to working with you elected them and speak in this place on their and my honourable colleagues in this chamber behalf. To the clerks at the table and the in a manner that is dignified and diligent. I attendants in the building, we are indebted to congratulate you and thank you. you for the role that you play in making sure The PRESIDENT—I thank the senators that the Senate functions and of course to all who have spoken on behalf of their parties the other Senate staff, some of whom we 6998 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 rarely see but all of whom are important to p.m.)—I propose to the Senate for its Deputy make sure that we function as we should. President and Chairman of Committees I want to refer just briefly, if I may, to the Senator West. I move: loss we suffered earlier in the previous term That Senator West be appointed Deputy Presi- when one of our number died. Senator John dent and Chairman of Committees. Panizza was in Cairns on committee work The PRESIDENT—Are there any further when his untimely death occurred. I am not nominations? There being no further nomina- the only one amongst us who recalls him with tions, I declare Senator West elected Deputy affection and has missed him and was very President and Chairman of Committees in sorry about what occurred. accordance with the standing orders. Last but by no means least, I want to thank Senator Sue West for the role she has played Senator WEST (New South Wales) (3.32 as Deputy President and Chairman of Com- p.m.)—Thank you, Madam President. It is mittees. There has not been an occasion in the with great pride that I rise today to say thank last three years when she has not been willing you to my colleagues for the honour of being to fill in for me or to do something that I elected to this position unopposed. I value the wanted her to do, and the cooperation that has honour that you have given me. I look for- existed I think has become a friendship ward to working with every one of you. As between us. I thank you, Sue, for the role that Senator Brown said earlier, I know there are you have played. times when the emotions take over and we Sitting suspended from 2.32 p.m. to have to stop and think about things and draw breath and behave, but I do look forward to 3.30 p.m. the cut and thrust of the future debates in this The PRESIDENT (Senator the Hon. place. I look forward to working with every- Margaret Reid) took the chair, and read body here, and particularly you, Madam Presi- prayers. dent. I thank you for your kind words earlier today and I look forward to continuing our PRESENTATION TO GOVERNOR- friendship and our working relationship GENERAL together. Thank you. COMMISSION TO ADMINISTER Senator HILL (South Australia—Minister OATH OR AFFIRMATION for the Environment and Heritage) (3.33 The PRESIDENT—I have to report that, p.m.)—On behalf of government senators, I accompanied by honourable senators, this congratulate Senator West on her election afternoon I presented myself to the Governor- unopposed. We on this side of the chamber General as the choice of the Senate as Presi- believe that she has done a good job as dent. The Governor-General congratulated me Deputy President and has well deserved our upon my election and presented me with a support today, and thus we have been pleased commission to administer to senators the oath to support her and wish her well during this or affirmation of allegiance. ensuing term. Commission laid on the table and read by Senator FAULKNER (New South Wales— the Clerk. Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) (3.33 ELECTION OF DEPUTY PRESIDENT p.m.)—On behalf of the opposition I say to AND CHAIR OF COMMITTEES Senator Sue West that we are also delighted that she has received the unanimous endorse- Senator HILL (South Australia—Leader of ment of the Senate as Deputy President and the Government in the Senate) (3.32 p.m.)—I Chairman of Committees. We believe that she remind the Senate that it should now choose has been a very competent, hardworking and one of its members to be Deputy President even-handed Chairman of Committees. The and Chairman of Committees. fact that she has been re-elected today unani- Senator FAULKNER (New South Wales— mously by this chamber is a demonstration of Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) (3.32 her capacity. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 6999

It is the case, as you would be only too interests. I think that should be commended. well aware, Madam President, that in this None of us have had very much regard to chamber there are often very complex com- affirmative action when choosing a President mittee stage debates. I believe that in the time and Deputy President; it has all been done on she has been Chairman of Committees Sena- merit. I look forward to again working with tor West has demonstrated a great capacity to Senator West, but I hope not for the duration handle those complex debates with compe- of those longstanding committee stage debates tence and with the necessary good humour like native title. Senator West sat through that is required from time to time. We certain- much of that and guided us through much of ly welcome your reappointment, Sue. On that. I look forward to working with her in behalf of opposition senators, I wish you well this coming period. for the three years ahead. Senator BROWN (Tasmania) (3.38 p.m.)— Senator LEES (South Australia—Leader of Madam President, I congratulate Senator West the Australian Democrats) (3.35 p.m.)—I rise on her election to this position. It is particu- to congratulate Senator West on behalf of the larly pleasant that it did not even require the Democrats. We are very pleased to support vote this time and that unanimity is the your nomination and election to this position. accolade for a job well done over the last The Senate’s committee system has become three years. I look forward to working in the a very important part of what we do. Your chamber. I am particularly pleased that the support of that system and the various chairs two presiding officers are women. I do not and deputy chairs is, I would imagine, at know that that applies in many other parlia- times quite an mentary chambers around the world. It is an excellent thing on the road to a greater parity arduous role but a very important one. We of numbers here on the benches, which I thank you for your contribution to date. We think will be a good thing for this country in look forward to working with you, particular- the future. I wish Senator West well and look ly in your role as Chairman of Committees. forward to working with her over the coming Senator BOSWELL (Queensland—Leader three years. of the National Party of Australia in the Senator HARRIS (Queensland) (3.38 Senate and Parliamentary Secretary to the p.m.)—I rise to congratulate Senator Sue Minister for Transport and Regional Services) West on her election to the position of Depu- (3.35 p.m.)—I too congratulate the newly ty President and Chairman of Committees. I elected Deputy President, Senator Sue West. look forward to working with her and with Both you, Madam President, and the Deputy you, Madam President, in both this chamber President make an excellent team which and in the committees to represent the people administers the business of the Senate in a of Queensland. I appreciate the courtesies that fair and bipartisan way. The fact that you will be afforded to me in my initial period have both been re-elected unanimously re- and again congratulate the senator. flects the great confidence the Senate has had in both of you previously as President and Senator WEST (New South Wales) (3.39 Deputy President. Sue, I wish you all the best p.m.)—I thank everybody for the kind words for the next three years. that they have uttered on behalf of their parties. I look forward to working with you. Senator HARRADINE (Tasmania) (3.36 I recognise that it is a great honour. I am sure p.m.)—I too would like to congratulate we will have fun and troubled times ahead Senator West on being elected. I think it is a and all sorts of variety. It will be great to be great thing for this chamber to have a Presi- able to work with Madam President and work dent from the governing party and a Deputy for the betterment of the Senate. President from the opposition. It shows maturity on the part of the chamber, particu- MINISTERIAL ARRANGEMENTS larly on the part of the government party at Senator HILL (South Australia—Minister this particular time. They have put the inter- for the Environment and Heritage) (3.39 ests of the chamber ahead of their self- p.m.)—I seek leave to interrupt the program 7000 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 at this stage to table, for the information of Senator HILL—I also seek leave to have honourable senators, an updated list of the full the list incorporated in Hansard. ministry reflecting the changes announced by the Prime Minister on 5 July 1999. Leave granted. Leave granted. The list read as follows—

SECOND HOWARD MINISTRY 9 August 1999

TITLE MINISTER OTHER CHAMBER Prime Minister The Hon John How- Senator the Hon ard, MP Robert Hill Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Senator the Hon John The Hon Philip Islander Affairs Herron Ruddock, MP Minister Assisting the Prime Minister The Hon Wilson Tuckey, MP Parliamentary Secretary to Cabinet Senator the Hon Bill Heffernan Minister for Transport and Regional The Hon John Ander- Senator the Hon Ian Services son, MP Macdonald (Deputy Prime Minister)* Minister for Regional Services, Territories Senator the Hon Ian The Hon John and Local Government Macdonald Anderson, MP Parliamentary Secretary* Senator the Hon Ron Boswell* Treasurer The Hon Peter Senator the Hon Rod Costello, MP Kemp Assistant Treasurer Senator the Hon Rod The Hon Peter Kemp Costello, MP Minister for Financial Services and Regu- The Hon Joe Hockey, Senator the Hon Rod lation MP Kemp Minister for Trade The Hon Mark Vaile, Senator the Hon MP* Robert Hill Minister for Foreign Affairs The Hon Alexander Senator the Hon Downer, MP Robert Hill Parliamentary Secretary (Foreign Affairs) The Hon Kathy Sul- livan, MP Minister for the Environment and Senator the Hon The Hon Warren Heritage Robert Hill Truss, MP* (Leader of the Government in the Senate) Parliamentary Secretary The Hon Sharman Stone, MP Minister for Communications, Informa- Senator the Hon Rich- The Hon Peter tion Technology and the Arts ard Alston McGauran, MP (Deputy Leader of the Government in the Senate) Minister for the Arts and the Centenary of The Hon Peter Senator the Hon Rich- Federation McGauran, MP ard Alston (Deputy Leader of the House) Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7001

Parliamentary Secretary Senator the Hon Ian (Manager of Government Business in the Campbell Senate) Minister for Employment, Workplace The Hon Peter Reith, Senator the Hon Rich- Relations and Small Business MP ard Alston (Leader of the House) Minister for Employment Services The Hon Tony Abbott, Senator the Hon Rich- MP ard Alston Minister for the Family and Communi- Senator the Hon Joce- The Hon Larry An- ty Services lyn Newman thony, MP* Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Status of Women Minister for Community Services The Hon Larry An- Senator the Hon Joce- thony, MP* lyn Newman Minister for Defence The Hon John Moore, Senator the Hon Joce- MP lyn Newman Minister Assisting the Minister for De- The Hon Bruce Scott, fence MP Minister for Veterans’ Affairs The Hon Bruce Scott, Senator the Hon Joce- MP lyn Newman Parliamentary Secretary Senator the Hon Eric Abetz Minister for Health and Aged Care The Hon Dr Michael Senator the Hon John Wooldridge, MP Herron Minister for Aged Care The Hon Bronwyn Senator the Hon John Bishop, MP Herron Parliamentary Secretary Senator the Hon Grant Tambling Minister for Finance and Administra- The Hon John Fahey, Senator the Hon Chris tion MP Ellison Special Minister of State Senator the Hon Chris The Hon John Fahey, Ellison MP Parliamentary Secretary The Hon Peter Slipper, MP Minister for Education, Training and The Hon Dr David Senator the Hon Chris Youth Affairs Kemp, MP Ellison (Vice-President of the Executive Council) Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Public Service Parliamentary Secretary The Hon Trish Worth, MP Minister for Industry, Science and Senator the Hon Nick The Hon John Moore, Resources Minchin MP Minister for Sport and Tourism The Hon Jackie Kelly, Senator the Hon Nick Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for MP Minchin the Sydney 2000 Games Parliamentary Secretary The Hon Warren Entsch, MP Attorney-General The Hon Daryl Wil- Senator the Hon liams, AM QC MP Amanda Vanstone Minister for Justice and Customs Senator the Hon The Hon Daryl Wil- Amanda Vanstone liams, AM QC MP 7002 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

Minister for Immigration and Multicul- The Hon Philip Senator the Hon tural Affairs Ruddock, MP Amanda Vanstone Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Senator the Hon John Reconciliation Herron Parliamentary Secretary Senator the Hon Kay Patterson Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and The Hon Warren Senator the Hon Rich- Forestry Truss, MP* ard Alston Minister for Forestry and Conservation The Hon Wilson Senator the Hon Tuckey, MP Robert Hill Parliamentary Secretary Senator the Hon Judith Troeth

Each box represents a portfolio. Cabinet Ministers Newman, Hon. Kevin Eugene, AO are shown in bold type. As a general rule, there is one department in each portfolio. Except for the The PRESIDENT—It is with deep regret Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, and that I inform the Senate of the death on 17 the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the July 1999 of the Hon. Kevin Eugene Newman title of each department reflects that of the portfolio minister. There is also a Department of Veterans AO, member of the House of Representatives Affairs in the Defence portfolio. for the division of Bass from 1975 to 1984, and at various times in that period Minister CONDOLENCES for Repatriation, Minister for Environment, Interlaken Tragedy Housing and Community Development, Minister for National Development, Minister The PRESIDENT—On behalf of all for Productivity, Minister Assisting the Prime senators, I express our deepest sympathy to Minister in Federal Affairs, Minister for the families and friends of those young Administrative Services and Minister Assist- Australians who were killed and to those who ing the Minister for Defence. were injured at Interlaken on 27 July 1999. I offer condolences to the families and friends Senator HILL (South Australia—Leader of of those citizens of Switzerland, New Zea- the Government in the Senate) (3.43 p.m.)— land, South Africa and Britain who also lost by leave—I move: their lives in this tragedy. I also wish to That the Senate expresses its deep regret at the commend the efforts of the rescuers and death, on Saturday, 17 July 1999, of the Honour- support services attending the scene and able Kevin Eugene Newman, Lt Col (Rtd), AO, a extend thanks to the Swiss authorities who member of the House of Representatives for the came to the assistance of the survivors, division of Bass in the State of Tasmania from friends and families. 1975 to 1984, Minister for Administrative Services from 1980 to 1983, Minister Assisting the Minister A number of senators who have just been for Defence from 1980 to 1982, Minister Assisting presented to the Governor-General commented the Prime Minister in Federal Affairs and Minister to him on his presence at the service at for Productivity from 1979 to 1980, Minister for Interlaken. I include our thanks to him for National Development from 1977 to 1979, Minister representing this country with the distinction for the Environment, Housing and Community with which he did on that sad occasion. I Development from 1976 to 1977, and Minister for Repatriation from 1975 to 1976, places on record invite honourable senators to stand and its appreciation of his long and meritorious public observe a minute’s silence in memory of service and tenders its profound sympathy to his those who died and in sympathy with their family in their bereavement. loved ones and friends whom we join in mourning. Kevin Newman was born on 10 October 1933 in Sydney, New South Wales. He was educat- Honourable senators having stood in their ed at Scots College and entered the Royal places— Military College, Duntroon in 1952. He had The PRESIDENT—I thank the Senate. a distinguished military career. Some of the Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7003 highlights included service in Malaya from tion of cultural heritage and services to the 1956 to 1957 as an infantry platoon com- Australian Parliament. mander during the Malayan Emergency and His was a lifelong commitment to com- in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968 with the munity service in his own right, but also of Second Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment. course after his retirement, in support of our He also served as an exchange instructor with colleague Jocelyn. The Newman family the British Army’s School of Infantry. continued to serve through the parliament Kevin Newman won the seat of Bass in when Jocelyn was elected to the Senate and Tasmania at a by-election in 1975, a result since she has served as a minister in the which was generally credited as contributing Howard government. His support of Jocelyn in a major way to the change of government in her work, particularly as his health deterio- that occurred at the general election later that rated, is something which we all admired. year when he, of course, won the seat again. They made a formidable political partnership, In fact, he held the seat for some nine years Madam President, both in Tasmania and in before resigning undefeated in 1984. As I the affairs of the nation. indicated a moment ago, he served as a On behalf of government senators, I extend minister in a number of different portfolios to Jocelyn and their children, Campbell and between 1975 and 1983, thus through the Kate, and their families our most sincere whole of the period of the Fraser government. sympathy in their bereavement. He had many interests and made a special Senator FAULKNER (New South Wales— contribution in so many areas of public life, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) (3.50 but I want to mention just two. The first was p.m.)—I wish to associate the opposition with his long interest in heritage matters, both this condolence motion moved by the Leader during his parliamentary service and after. As of the Government in the Senate on the death I said, he was Minister for the Environment, of the Hon. Kevin Newman, who was a Housing and Community Development when former minister in the Fraser government. the Australian Heritage Commission was There is no doubt that Kevin Newman established in 1976. He had been Chairman contributed much to Australian society, first of the Governing Council of Old Parliament serving his country as a soldier, then, of House since 1998, a member of the course, as a parliamentarian and federal Stockman’s Hall of Fame board since 1985, minister and then in public service. He had a Chairman of the Australian Council of Na- distinguished career in the military, rising to tional Trusts and President of the National the rank of lieutenant colonel. He graduated Trust of Tasmania from 1988 to 1991. from Duntroon in 1954. He was a platoon commander in the Third Battalion, Royal The other field I wanted to mention was his Australian Regiment during the Malayan contribution to the promotion of community Emergency in 1956 and then served as an health. He was Chairman of the Tasmanian operations officer in the Second Battalion in Committee of Nurse Education from 1986 Vietnam in 1967. until 1989. He was instrumental in establish- ing the Menzies Centre for Population Health Of course, he resigned his commission to Research at the University of Tasmania, and enter the political arena in 1975. He did so at its chairman from 1987 to 1990. He was the Bass by-election which he won for the Chairman of the Launceston Public Hospital Liberal Party. There is no doubt that it was Board from 1985 until 1989. one of the most significant by-elections in Australian political history. That would be Madam President, Kevin Newman was acknowledged by people on all sides of named in the 1994 Queen’s Birthday Honours Australian politics. Soon after he won that list and appointed an Officer in the General cathartic by-election in 1975, there was a Division of the Order of Australia for service change of government and he quickly as- to the community, particularly through the sumed ministerial responsibility. He held provision of health care services, the preserva- numerous portfolios throughout his ministerial 7004 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 career as Minister for Repatriation, Minister in a political career that spanned only about for the Environment, Housing and Community nine years, for 8½ of those years he was a Development, Minister for National Develop- minister. That is a very hard thing to beat and ment, Minister for Productivity and Minister in many ways it tells you a couple of things for Administrative Services. about judgment: you have got to know when Those of us in the parliament who have an to get in and when to get out. Given that he interest particularly in environmental protec- had already had a very distinguished military tion would acknowledge the very significant career, to move on in the way that he did and efforts that were made during his stewardship hold some very high offices over that long of the environment portfolio in saving Fraser period is ample testimony to his capacity. Island from sand mining. That ought to be But CVs do not ever really tell the full placed on record in this chamber today. After story. Certainly, they do not indicate the very that distinguished ministerial career, he human qualities that Kevin Newman pos- resigned from parliament in 1984 due to ill sessed. He always struck me as a person of health. As Senator Hill has indicated, it was very high principle. We all know that he not long after that that his wife, Jocelyn, suffered from a degenerative illness that entered the Senate and Tasmanians were finally cost him his life. During all of that represented by another Newman in the period when it was increasingly difficult for Commonwealth parliament. him to breathe—and indeed, at times, to I want to say this: Kevin Newman’s death move—he displayed the highest stoicism and does have particular significance for senators, bravery. I am sure that his military career because his wife is a serving senator and stood him in good stead in that regard. It is minister in the Howard government. He is a very easy, I am sure, for even those who person who was seen around this building a think they are of the strongest character to lot, in support of Senator Newman as she feel sorry for themselves on occasions, but we undertook her ministerial responsibilities and never saw that with Kevin. I an sure he was duties. I am sure that, because of the fact that forever grateful for the support of Jocelyn; Kevin Newman was married to a serving they were a wonderful team. senator in this chamber, his death has touched senators very deeply. I also knew, having appointed him as The opposition would acknowledge that chairman of the governing council of Old Kevin Newman served the people of Tasman- Parliament House and discussing with him ia and of Australia with distinction. We such things as the Stockman’s Hall of Fame particularly want to say to Jocelyn Newman on a number of occasions, of his long and that she has the sincere and deepest sympathy abiding interest in heritage issues. He was a of the opposition in this difficult time. We very good chairman. He consulted widely, also offer our sincere condolences to other had the noblest of instincts and very much members of Jocelyn’s family and to Kevin understood what was important. He was at all Newman’s friends. times committed to ensuring that we had bipartisan support on that council, that people Senator ALSTON (Victoria—Minister for understood the significance of the building Communications, Information Technology and and that we really did leave something for the Arts) (3.54 p.m.)—I am indebted to those coming after us. Senators Lees, Brown, Harradine and Boswell for allowing me the opportunity to say a few I simply want to say that most people who words on this occasion. Kevin Newman was go through this parliament can claim that they someone that I had known for more than 20 have achieved something, but Kevin Newman years. In all that time he always struck me— will live long in all our memories as someone and, I am sure, many others—as someone who really did bring a new, very high dimen- who represented the highest ideals of commit- sion in terms of personal qualities. I am sure ment to public service. His CV is a very that his family and friends will miss him for impressive one. I suppose the stand-out is that a very long time. I extend my special sympa- Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7005 thies to Jocelyn, the children and the wider Emergency in 1956. He then served as an family. operations officer in South Vietnam. In 1967 Senator LEES (South Australia—Leader of he resigned from the military to pursue a the Australian Democrats) (3.57 p.m.)—I rise future in politics. Kevin’s political life began to associate the Democrats with the motion with the now famous by-election in Bass, moved by Senator Hill. We were all very where he won the seat with a swing of over sorry to hear of the death of the former 17 per cent. This victory was critical for the minister and member for Bass, the Hon. Liberal Party and began a series of events Kevin Eugene Newman AO. He certainly was culminating in the election of the Fraser a very strong and very well-known advocate government. for Tasmania. The Hon. Kevin Newman’s After the election win, he was appointed as distinguished record, both before he entered a minister and, over the next eight years, held politics in 1975 and also while serving in the the portfolios of Repatriation; Environment, other place, is also very well known and has Housing and Community Development; again been detailed here this afternoon. In National Development; Productivity; and particular, he will be remembered for his Administrative Services. Kevin Newman will work on the environment—as has already be remembered for his strength of command been mentioned—on some of the key issues both during military operations and as a in his time as a minister in the Fraser govern- minister of the Crown. In the words of my ment. former leader Tim Fischer, Kevin was a He went on, yet again, after leaving politics, soldier’s soldier who enjoyed the company of to a third life, if you like, and did very all ranks. He pushed the envelope to keep distinguished work in the community, for moving the battalion forward and to build up which he was formally recognised. We also unit spirit. He applied the same philosophy of remember his work for community health and thinking and actions in the portfolios he particularly for the National Trust and the managed. environment generally. I want to extend the Due to ill health, Kevin Newman retired sympathy of the Democrats to his wife, from parliament in 1984. After this, he con- Senator Jocelyn Newman, and to say to her tinued to pursue public service and was now that our thoughts are with her at this appointed president of the National Trust of very difficult time and are also with the Tasmania and chairman of the National family and with Kevin Newman’s friends. Council of National Trusts. He was a member Senator BOSWELL (Queensland—Leader of the board of the Menzies Foundation and of the National Party of Australia in the a director of the Stockman’s Hall of Fame. He Senate and Parliamentary Secretary to the was also the chairman of the council for Old Minister for Transport and Regional Services) Parliament House. Kevin Newman received (3.59 p.m.)—I wish to associate the National the Order of Australia in 1994 after a lifetime Party with the condolence motion, moved by of service. Senator Hill for the government, for the Hon. I extend my sympathy to his wife, Senator Kevin Newman AO, who passed away sud- Newman, his children, Campbell and Kate, denly in July after a long battle with illness. his grandchildren, family members and Kevin was known to many of us in this friends, and offer them the condolences of the chamber, and I wish to express our deepest National Party. Senator Newman was fortu- sympathy to his wife, Senator Newman, and nate to have such a terrific supporter in to the family. Kevin. Kevin Newman was a leader before reach- It is rare to have a husband and wife team ing federal parliament. He had a distinguished where both have played a significant role in career in the military, reaching the rank of public life, each in their own way. We will lieutenant colonel. He graduated from the miss seeing Kevin’s face in the corridors. We Royal Military College Duntroon in 1954 and will miss learning of his involvement in was a platoon commander during the Malayan various activities, always related to some kind 7006 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 of public service. It is fashionable for some to I am one of those who seem to have made downgrade people who try to make their mark a career in finding dispute with ministers for in politics, but it is moments like this condo- the environment, and the former minister lence motion today when we can renew our Kevin Newman was no exception. But, as has faith in the importance of a life called to already been mentioned by Senator Alston, a public service. We recognise the sacrifices very important part of his success story is the and triumphs and how important it is to have protection of Fraser Island—one of the great someone to share them with. Our sincere moments in environmental history which sympathies are with Jocelyn on the loss of her occurred under the Fraser government during partner and a memorable Australian. the time Kevin Newman was Minister for the Senator HARRADINE (Tasmania) (4.01 environment. p.m.)—I too would like to associate myself I would add that Kevin Newman was with this condolence motion. It was a great somebody with the noblest instincts. He did privilege for me to be present at the service not bear grudges, and he was an affable, for Kevin Newman at the chapel of the Royal accommodating, genuine human being. I Military College, Duntroon. It was a very found that in my dealings with him right fitting farewell. Indeed, the eulogies were down the line. I do not know whether it was quite outstanding, I thought, and must have the inspiration of Launceston’s remarkable been of considerable comfort to Jocelyn and architectural heritage that made the difference, to her family. but he was a fighter for Australia’s heritage; Kevin I knew as a fellow Tasmanian as a person who has contributed greatly to the well as a minister for some years. Kevin was, wellbeing of the heritage of this country. there is no doubt about it, a battler for Bass. I would like to join other members in He continued talking about Bass, and certain- extending deepest sympathy to Senator New- ly talked about it within the spheres of man and her family at this time. government and power up here in Canberra, Senator WATSON (Tasmania) (4.05 as witnessed in some of the practical results p.m.)—I wish to be associated with this that flowed to the division of Bass. It has condolence motion. For many years Kevin been mentioned that for eight of his nine and I shared adjoining offices. years he was a minister, but it is interesting to note that he actually stood four times—he Kevin Newman will be fondly remembered had to face four elections in those nine years. by many residents of Tasmania, particularly Such was life in those days. It is not terrifi- the electorate of Bass, as a leader and as a cally well known by people nowadays, but he high achiever who represented his people very was a senior military officer—a lieutenant strongly in the federal parliament. Kevin colonel—at the age of 41. It is not too often brought a new and a very practical dimension that people get to be lieutenant colonel at the to federal-state financial relations, especially age of 41. He had shown a great deal of in the delivery of massive financial special spirit, administrative capabilities and, of payments to Tasmania. course, bravery. His landslide success in the Bass by-elec- There are a lot of things that could be said tion in June 1975 lit a spark which quickly about Kevin on both a personal and an offi- led to a revival of Liberal Party prospects cial basis. I, too, would like to join with my nationwide and the subsequent election colleagues in expressing sincere sympathy to success of the coalition government later that Jocelyn and to her family on the death of her year. Tasmanians elected Liberals to all five husband and their father. seats in the December 1975 federal election. Senator BROWN (Tasmania) (4.04 p.m.)— As a member of parliament, Kevin Newman I, too, would like to associate myself with this was accessible and respected, and regarded as condolence motion. In the passing of Kevin an energetic and warm human being. He also Newman, Tasmania and Australia have lost a had a distinguished life in community service very fine citizen. which began with his military career. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7007

Kevin Newman played an important role My major association with Kevin concerned during his time in parliament not only as a his management of all of the campaigns that hardworking and practical minister but also as I have been involved in. I have been re- the major voice for Tasmania in the Fraser elected successfully every time, and I think government. Of course, we see his loving and Kevin’s success rate as the director of the so capable wife Jocelyn as the major voice for Senate campaigns in Tasmania is second to Tasmania in this very effective Howard none. Those of us who worked with Kevin— government. What a wonderful partnership including Senator Watson and me—know that both Kevin and Jocelyn have been. he would tell us in no uncertain terms what Kevin Newman was an energetic and he thought we should be doing. His zest to determined advocate of Tasmanian causes, get on and win inspired us all. He suggested and after his retirement from parliamentary that we should hire a bus to do our cam- life he continued his strong contribution to paigning. Without going into any detail, I can community affairs, notably through his leader- assure you that driving a bus with Jocelyn, ship role in the National Trust at both state Shirley Walters and Brian Archer was some- and federal levels. Tasmanians have indeed thing that was an experience to be involved lost an exceptionally good citizen. Kevin’s in. I was the driver, and half the time I was advice and practical contribution to all will be being advised by everybody which turn we sadly missed. My sincere sympathy is extend- should be taking. Nevertheless, we got ed to Jocelyn, his daughter Kate, his son around, we won the campaign and we were Campbell, his sister, his brother-in-law and re-elected. Kevin’s support and advice to the also their families. Tasmanian Liberal Party, to the federal Liberal members and senators, was always Senator CALVERT (Tasmania) (4.08 appreciated and very well regarded because p.m.)—I, too, as a Tasmanian senator, wish to his advice was always the best. be associated with this condolence motion. Senator Abetz, who unfortunately has had to A lot of us probably do not realise how attend another meeting, would also like his well Kevin was known by the man in the name to be associated with the motion. street, because of his involvement at all levels. Particularly in Launceston he tena- Those of us who were privileged to be at ciously followed through all of his promises. the memorial service held for Kevin on He was involved in very great projects in Thursday, 22 July, could not have been Tasmania, such as the Australian Maritime impressed more, not only by the number of College, the Launceston General Hospital and people who were there but by the eulogies the Albert Hall convention centre. And, of that were given by former and current serving course, he was one of the original supporters members of the Defence Force. They spoke of freight equalisation. about just what sort of person Kevin Newman was. They went right back to when he was Kevin was a very strong family man and serving as a cadet officer and spoke about his supported Jocelyn, as we all know, very military career. There were many enlightening strongly, particularly after she became a very anecdotes about some of his achievements senior federal minister for Tasmania. I would and about some of the pranks that one would like to express my condolences publicly to expect from young officers and young cadets. Jocelyn and her family and, as I said before, Without going through all of his achieve- involve Senator Abetz in those remarks, ments, I think it is important for us to remem- because he unfortunately could not be here. ber that it was mentioned at the service that Senator GIBSON (Tasmania) (4.12 p.m.)— Jocelyn, his wife, described their relationship I also, as a Tasmanian Liberal senator, wish as ‘more than a love affair, but a great to be associated with this condolence motion friendship’. This was mentioned in Partners, for Kevin Newman. As my colleague Senator a book about Australian couples who have Calvert just said, Kevin managed our Senate been together for a long time. I believe the campaigns going back a long time. Kevin was Newmans were together since 1 July 1961. the manager of the two campaigns that I have 7008 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 been involved in—in 1993 and just last year Of course, that meant he became the van- in 1998. He made a great contribution to the guard of the tremendous 1975 election win for party, to Senator Eric Abetz and me, and to the Liberal and National parties, and their other candidates. He stayed cool, calm and return to government under Prime Minister collected throughout the election campaigns Fraser. He was the vanguard of those who and planned them well. Basically, when panic became known as the oncers: those of us who was going on here and there—which happens were elected to this parliament for the first a fair bit during election campaigns, as we all time in 1975 were described as thus by the know—Kevin was there, cool, calm and then Labor opposition—I suppose, in their collected, making sure that things were done hoping scorn—but in fact most of us turned correctly; ‘Settle down. This is what you’ve out to be at least thricers and survived got to do,’ et cetera. Through that process, of through the period of service that the Fraser course, my wife and I became good friends government gave to Australia. with the Newmans. Significantly, Kevin Newman survived One little thing I should mention—which beyond 1983 until his voluntary retirement in nobody else has done—is that Kevin, when 1984. It is worth reflecting that, prior to his national development minister, was a great election, Bass had been a relatively safe proponent of a cable across Bass Strait to link Labor seat and certainly since his retirement the Tasmanian electricity system to the in 1984 it has been a marginal seat which has mainland system. This was well before it was seesawed backwards and forwards between even mentioned in the public arena. I might the Liberal Party and the Labor Party. Yet add that that project is underway right now, Kevin Newman held that seat for the whole and not before time. It should have been done of his period in parliament, without loss, and a long time ago. Kevin pushed that strongly retired voluntarily. I believe that in itself in the early days—which, again, is not well reflects the positive attitude that the electorate known in Tasmania. Kevin showed great of Bass had towards Kevin Newman, the foresight, and it would have been a magnifi- respect they had for him and for the hard cent thing if it had been done when he had work that he undertook on behalf of his Bass suggested it. He was a great fellow. We will constituents. miss him, and our condolences are with My closest association with Kevin Newman Jocelyn and his family. was during his period as Minister for Environ- ment, Housing and Community Development Senator CHAPMAN (South Australia) between July 1976 and December 1977 when, (4.15 p.m.)—In joining in this condolence as minister for that portfolio, he initiated the motion may I say that I well remember 28 Fraser government’s policy to take an active June 1975, the date of the Bass by-election, involvement in youth affairs, with the estab- because on that same weekend there was a lishment of the Office of Youth Affairs within meeting of the federal Young Liberal policy his department. This was a tremendous initia- committee in Melbourne, and I was among tive on the part of the government, and on the seven or eight Young Liberals gathered at that part of Kevin as the responsible minister, meeting. I think our attention was fixed more because it was the first time that a federal on what was happening across Bass Strait in government had taken an active interest in Launceston on that afternoon of the by- youth matters. It was therefore an important election rather than on the matters of policy initiative by Kevin Newman, as minister, and that were confronting us. There was certainly something for which he is due great credit. a terrific celebration among that group on that He appointed me to an advisory committee Saturday evening when the results came in to work with him in relation to youth affairs and we discovered there had been an 18 per policy. During the period he held that port- cent swing to Kevin Newman as the Liberal folio, I was very much aware of Kevin’s candidate to secure victory for him in that by- unbridled enthusiasm not only for life but for election. his political responsibilities, and that was Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7009 certainly reflected in his approach to youth kind person. He was a member of parliament affairs and the policies that he initiated in that who was able to keep and exhibit all of those area and in his work with that advisory qualities, without compromise. committee. One of the wonderful things was that he After Kevin’s retirement, and my return to continued to contribute through his subse- the parliament in this place, I continued my quent community activities, which Senator association with him on his periodic visits to Hill mentioned in his speech earlier today. Canberra, as has already been mentioned, in Apart from being a loving and deeply caring his capacity as our colleague Senator Jocelyn family man, who was so incredibly proud of Newman’s spouse. I always regarded highly his wife, Jocelyn, and her achievements, and the opportunity to catch up with Kevin during of course their children, he was also someone those visits. Perhaps even more importantly who cared about others. When Kevin asked than those visits were his regular attendances you how you were, or what you had been at the oncers dinner—the reunion dinners that doing and what you planned to do, he actually have been held every year for those of us who meant what he asked. To me, he was one of were elected in 1975—as a ‘75er, albeit, as an those rare persons who listened to and were early ‘75er because, as I said, he was elected interested in your response. He did not ask in that June by-election rather than the the question and then not listen and walk December election. away. It is something I will always remember him for with great affection. To Jocelyn, Kate He was always enthusiastically involved in and Campbell, and their families, I extend to those dinners and it was of course on those you my heartfelt sympathies at the passing of occasions that Senator Newman attended as a person I call a real officer and a gentleman. his spouse, as Kevin attended those dinners in his own right. He certainly enjoyed those Senator ABETZ (Tasmania—Parliamentary occasions and I am sure he will be missed by Secretary to the Minister for Defence) (4.22 those of us ‘75ers who continue to gather p.m.)—I also seek to associate myself with each year to celebrate at those dinners. His the comments that have been made this company will be missed and his enthusiastic afternoon about Kevin Eugene Newman. He involvement in those dinners will certainly be is fondly remembered by all Tasmanians. His missed. I wish to extend my sympathy to life was an example to us all. It was a life of Jocelyn, and to his children and other mem- public service: service to the defence of his bers of the family. nation and service to the people of Bass and Senator KNOWLES (Western Australia) Tasmania as an elected member of the parlia- (4.19 p.m.)—I wish to contribute briefly to ment and as a minister in the Fraser govern- this condolence motion for Kevin Newman. ment. All of us here dedicate ourselves to Kevin is someone I too will always remember public service. It would be fair to say that because I was a Young Liberal in 1975 when Kevin Newman did that, but even more so. this fellow called Kevin Newman won the He dedicated the first part of his life to seat of Bass in Tasmania. It was a memorable military service, which is a calling potentially time for young people, particularly of the a lot greater than the calling of those of us Liberal persuasion, because he became the who serve in the public arena. He was willing masthead for a Liberal government and a through his calling to place his own safety at Liberal change. Even though none of us knew risk for the defence of the nation, and that is Kevin at that stage he was somehow etched a calling and commitment that should never in our memories for ever more. Once I got to be underestimated. know Kevin—throughout my time in the After having completed a very distinguished Liberal Party and in those early days when I military career, he continued to devote him- was involved at national conferences and so self to public service through the parliament. forth—I learned very quickly that he was He was prepared to make a commitment to someone who was absolutely and utterly Australia even after his distinguished military respected as a professional, intelligent and and parliamentary career. His support to the 7010 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

Tasmanian division of the Liberal Party of Michelle, I offer our sincere condolences to Australia was very much appreciated by me Senator Newman, Kate and Campbell. in my role as a former state president and as Senator PATTERSON (Victoria— a Senate candidate at the last election. We Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for were ably managed by Kevin Newman; he Immigration and Multicultural Affairs) (4.26 was our campaign manager. Throughout the p.m.)—I wish to associate myself with the numerous years that I have known Kevin, he condolence motion for Kevin Eugene New- struck me as being intelligent, forthright and man. My colleagues have spoken about his a very matter-of-fact type of man. He would distinguished military career. I have to men- be very quick to tell you if he thought you tion that, at the funeral service, Senator had done something wrong. It was over in a Calvert referred to the amusing story about minute or two, but it was just as forthright. Kevin Newman having arrived at Old Parlia- He would also go out of his way to tell you ment House in a pair of army pyjamas, when if he thought you had done something well. he was dumped there by some of his military He was very matter-of-fact, straight to the colleagues. I think that showed the sense of point and strategic, but he was also a man fun that he had then, a sense of fun that he who was very generous in spirit. There is one never lost. image that I have of Kevin Newman and that His parliamentary career has been referred is his big smile and twinkling eyes. Those of to and the fact that he served almost all of his us who were at the service at Duntroon saw parliamentary career as a minister. People that those characteristics have been inherited have referred to the achievements of that by his son, Campbell, who was so gracious as ministry. Others have referred to his com- to smile and who showed the same twinkling munity service in a wide range of areas since eyes as we were passing on our condolences. he left parliament. I cannot do anything better The Newman duo—Kevin and Jocelyn—were than quote from the words of Kevin himself a dynamic duo in Tasmania. They have made from the book, Partners, which Senator a fantastic contribution to Tasmania. Indeed, Calvert referred to. I want to read an extract it was Kevin Newman’s initiative that basi- from that book: cally brought about the Bass Strait freight There aren’t too many New Age guys in my equalisation scheme in the Fraser government. generation. It was through Jocelyn being the senior representative from Tasmania that, at the last I think that most of us of my age could say, election, we got the upgraded Tasmanian ‘Hear, hear,’ to that. The extract continues: Freight Equalisation Scheme—the Bass Strait It’s enjoyable supporting Joc and keeping the home passenger vehicle equalisation scheme. running, simply because she now has her chance to follow a challenging career which she never had All those benefits to Tasmania can be while she supported me. shown to have come from the commitment of As we know, he was often up there in the the Newmans. One thing that also impressed gallery when she was answering questions in me at all times about Kevin and Jocelyn was question time. I know that he kept the home their personal closeness and commitment to running because I benefited from a great each other. The rigours of public life do take number of meals that he cooked. Also, when their toll, but it was quite obvious that Kevin I stayed there, he always gave me Milo before and Jocelyn made time to ensure that their I went to bed. So I fondly referred to him as private life was not adversely affected. Can I my ‘Milo man’ and that name stuck for the say, on behalf of the Liberal Party in my whole time that I knew Kevin. It is really home state of Tasmania, that Kevin will be about my ‘Milo man’ that I am speaking and remembered as a hero of the Liberal Party, I am reading extracts from his book. He went especially given his efforts in the 1975 Bass on in the book Partners to say: by-election. He will be remembered as an Over recent years we have each had to look a activist and a worker. On behalf of all Lib- doctor in the eye while we were told we were not erals in Tasmania and especially my wife, immortal. In my case I contracted lupus which in Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7011 turn attacked my lungs. I now live with an incur- man. My sympathy goes to Jocelyn, Kate and able lung disease which is getting worse. Campbell, and his grandchildren, whom he I think he showed the practicality of being absolutely adored—and we often saw him able to face the fact that he was not immortal with them in the corridors here and having a with great strength and courage. I think that coffee, especially at Aussies. My deepest was something to be admired and most of us condolences and sympathy go also to his would wonder whether we would have that sister, his extended family and his friends. same courage. The PRESIDENT—Kevin Newman was Kevin also talked about Jocelyn’s illness in indeed a very fine man with a very strong this book. He said that those two things—the commitment to his community and to his fact that he was ill and the fact that Jocelyn family. Tom and I wish to offer our condo- had been ill—were pretty hard to come to lences to Jocelyn, Kate, Campbell and their terms with. But he went on to say: family. I would ask honourable senators to But it can also be enormously positive. The stand in silence to signify their assent to the heightened appreciation of life, love, family and motion. friends is something to be experienced. Every day Question resolved in the affirmative, is special and to be lived to the full. It also helps to put the problems in perspective. Political attacks, honourable senators standing in their places. be they ever so cruel, are not really of enormous Bishop, Hon. Reginald, AO importance. Just to be alive and loved counts for more than fame and fortune. The PRESIDENT—It is with deep regret There is a real message for all of us in those that I inform the Senate of the death on 3 July few words. He then went on to say: 1999 of former Senator the Hon. Reginald Bishop AO, a senator for the state of South We think fortune has smiled on us. When we married it was for love. But we all know that Australia from 1962 to 1981, and at various choosing a mate for life can be a pig-in-a-poke. For times in that period Minister for Repatriation, us, a long marriage has worked. We have been Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence blessed with great children and grandchildren, we and Postmaster-General. have both had important and influential careers, but best of all, we are still best mates. Senator HILL (South Australia—Leader of the Government in the Senate) (4.33 p.m.)— I think that sums up Kevin to a T. In all those by leave—I move: difficulties, he still saw the positive side. That the Senate expresses its deep regret at the I was overwhelmed to be asked by the death, on Saturday, 3 July 1999, of the Honourable family to read a lesson at the service. I said Reginald Bishop, AO, a senator for the State of to Jocelyn afterwards, ‘I am sure Kevin would South Australia from 1962 to 1981, Postmaster- have said, "Good on you, Jocelyn—at least General from 1974 to 1975, Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence from 1972 to 1974 and from you had one girl participating in the funeral June to November 1975, and Minister for Repatri- service."’ He was truly one of the few New- ation for 1972 to 1974, places on record its appreci- Age guys of his generation. That lesson was ation of his long and meritorious public service and from Ecclesiasticus, from the Apocrypha, tenders its profound sympathy to his family in their chapter 44, verses 1 to 15. It started by saying bereavement. ‘let us now give praise to godly men’. It was Reginald Bishop was born on 4 February a wonderful reading. It went on: 1913 in Adelaide, South Australia. He left But we will praise these godly men, whose right- school at 15 and commenced work with the eous deeds have never been forgotten. Their South Australian Railways at Islington as a reputations will be passed on to their descendants, clerk. From the very beginning Reg was an and this will be their inheritance. active member of the trade union movement His reputation—as Senator Knowles said—as and had a lifelong interest in industrial rela- an officer and a gentleman will be passed on tions matters more generally. In that vein, to his descendants and will be their inherit- before entering federal politics Reg worked as ance. We said let us praise godly men: Kevin an official with the South Australian branch was a godly man, a gentleman and a gentle of the Australian Railways Union from 1937 7012 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 until 1956. He became a full-time organiser the Order of Australia for his service to for them at just 24 years of age. Reg was the politics and government. He will be remem- Secretary of the South Australian Trades and bered by all who knew him and served with Labour Council from 1956 until 1962 and him as a passionate trade unionist as well as during this time was also Commissioner of a dedicated senator and minister. Sadly, Reg the South Australian Board of Industry. In Bishop lost his wife, Connie, in 1997 after, I addition to this, Reg was a member of the understand, more than 60 years of marriage. South Australian Advisory Committee on On behalf of the government, I extend to his Workmen’s Compensation from 1957 until children Romola and Phillip and their families 1961 and an Executive Member of the ACTU our most sincere sympathy in their bereave- from 1956 until 1962. ment. In fact, Reg’s lifelong support for workers Senator FAULKNER (New South Wales— was a feature of his parliamentary service. In Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) (4.37 his maiden speech Reg spoke of matters such p.m.)—I associate the opposition with the as the economy and unemployment in his condolence motion that has been moved by typical no-nonsense manner. During World the Leader of the Government in the Senate War II, Reg Bishop enlisted in the Royal on the death of Reg Bishop, a former minister Australian Air Force. He served from 23 in the Whitlam government. There is a great February 1943 until his discharge on 4 Janu- deal of sadness and regret in the Labor Party ary 1946. During this time he served in at Reg Bishop’s death. He was truly a great Darwin and in Borneo. Reg Bishop entered Labor stalwart. I think it makes many of us federal parliament in 1962 having been realise that, of the figures who were so elected to the Senate for South Australia the important and instrumental in the reforms and previous year. He was re-elected to the Senate changes that occurred in this country in the a further three times, leaving parliament at the early 1970s, that special time in Labor poli- expiration of his term in 1981. Reg Bishop’s tics, a number are now disappearing from our contribution to the parliament included his lives. considerable committee service. This included Reg Bishop played a vital role in the serving on many committees, including the Whitlam government, but for a very long Senate Standing Committee for the Library, period of time he had been a very significant the Senate Standing Committee for Regula- figure in the Labor Party in the state of South tions and Ordinances, the Joint Committee of Australia. He was one of those people who, Foreign Affairs, and the Foreign Affairs and in the 1950s and 1960s, really built and Defence committee, as it subsequently be- revitalised the South Australian Labor Party. came. He also spent some time on the Senate I am sure he will be remembered by so many Select Committee for Container Method of in the Labor Party for his loyalty and his Handling Cargoes during 1967-68 and did dedication to the party and the broader Labor numerous periods on Senate estimates com- movement. He was one of those no-nonsense mittees. Reg also participated in various people, dedicating himself and his life in delegations, conferences and visits during his tireless work for the Labor cause. Senate career. Reg Bishop was a son of South Australia. The aspect of Reg Bishop’s distinguished He worked in the South Australian Railways service for which he will perhaps be best from an early age—as a teenager. That really remembered will be as the last Postmaster- was the first step in his becoming very in- General of Australia. In this capacity he volved with the union movement which, oversaw the creation of Telecom and Austral- again, was a lifelong commitment for him. ia Post. Other initiatives included the abolition Reg became a full-time organiser of the of television and radio licence fees and the Australian Railways Union at the age of 24 part he played in the introduction of FM radio and, except for a comparatively short period in Australia. In 1984 Reg Bishop was ap- of three years when during World War II he pointed an Officer in the General Division of served in the Royal Australian Air Force, he Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7013 worked for the Australian Railways Union Party with the condolence motion moved by until 1956 when he became the Secretary of the government for Reg Bishop who passed the South Australian Trades and Labour away in July, aged 86. Reg Bishop was born Council. in Adelaide and spent the majority of his life In 1961, as we have heard, he became a representing the people of that state both in senator; he was elected in 1961 and his term the union movement and in the federal parlia- commenced in June 1962. That was the ment. His working career began in the rail- commencement of a very distinguished 19 ways. He then served in the RAAF during years in the federal parliament. But the World War II with postings to Darwin and highlight was his being appointed minister in Borneo. the Whitlam government, first as Minister for Reg Bishop had a long involvement in the Repatriation and Minister Assisting the union movement. He began as an official for Minister for Defence—he was appointed to the Australian Railways Union and later those portfolios in 1972—and then in 1974 he served as union secretary of the South Aus- became Postmaster-General, the last person to tralian Trades and Labour Council, Commis- hold that position in Australian politics. As sioner of the South Australian Board of Postmaster-General he oversaw enormous Industry and executive member of the ACTU. changes. One of the biggest changes in the Reg Bishop represented the people of South postal and telecommunications arena that we Australia as a senator for almost 20 years— have ever seen made by an Australian govern- from 1962 to 1981. During his distinguished ment, the creation of those two separate parliamentary career Reg Bishop served entities now known by the Australian com- Australia as the Minister for Repatriation, the munity as Australia Post and Telstra, was in Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence no small measure due to his administrative and Postmaster-General. Reg Bishop was the and political skills and his vision as Post- last Postmaster-General and undertook one of master-General. the largest administrative reforms in I would like to say, in speaking on this Australia’s history by creating Australia Post condolence motion, that Reg Bishop will be and Telecom. remembered by people in the Labor Party as someone who was a true believer. He was a As a minister in the Whitlam government, hardworking, straight-talking bloke who he played a role in some of the most contro- served his country with distinction but always versial political events in Australian history. had such great pride in the Labor Party and After retiring from the Senate in 1981, Reg the Labor movement. In relation to the Labor Bishop led a full and active life and continued movement, the name of Reg Bishop became to be involved in the South Australian Labor a byword for loyalty. He made a great contri- Party. I wish to extend the sympathy of the bution to the Labor movement. He was a National Party to his children, family and great stalwart of the Labor Party, and we will friends. never forget that. On behalf of the opposition, I express sincere sympathy to members of his Senator SCHACHT (South Australia) family and all his friends and supporters in (4.45 p.m.)—I rise to associate myself with the Labor Party and the broader Labor move- the condolence motion on the passing of ment in South Australia. This was truly a former Senator Reg Bishop. It was a particu- great Labor man who died recently and whose larly sad occasion for me and my wife per- contribution we remember today in the Sen- sonally when we received the news that Reg ate. had passed away, because during the halcyon days of the Whitlam government I had Senator BOSWELL (Queensland—Leader worked on Reg’s staff for over two years. I of the National Party of Australia in the was his senior private secretary both when he Senate and Parliamentary Secretary to the was Minister for Repatriation and Minister Minister for Transport and Regional Services) Assisting the Minister for Defence and when (4.43 p.m.)—I wish to associate the National he was Postmaster-General—the last Post- 7014 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 master-General in Australia’s history. I will Australian Air Force in Darwin and in Borneo return to that shortly. during the Second World War. Reg gave me great advice, assistance and In 1956 he stood for election as secretary comradeship during the time I worked for of that union and was defeated in a ballot at him. When I first went to work for him I was the time of the Labor Party split. It was—in 24 years of age, a very young and enthusiastic his terms, to me and others—the most disap- supporter and member of the Labor Party. But pointing part of his life in the labour move- Reg—being an experienced, wise trade union ment that he was defeated for that position of leader and a long-serving senator for the secretary. But, just as a defeat in the Labor Labor Party—offered much useful advice to Party sometimes opens up other new oppor- me and to others, particularly young people, tunities, within six months he had been about the way to make one’s way through the approached and supported to become Secre- often Byzantine nature of the Labor Party, the tary of the Trades and Labour Council of way to treat others and the way to work out South Australia in 1956. He put his energy the upside and downside of politics. into that job and reorganised the Trades and The two years I spent with Reg on his staff Labour Council of South Australia to make it was the most valuable learning experience a more effective organisation that represented that I have had in politics. I had previously the broad trade union movement in South studied politics for three years at Adelaide Australia. University. Reg taught me more in three At the same time he ensured that the trade weeks than I learnt in three years at Adelaide union movement in South Australia was University on the theoretical side of politics. working in a united way with the Labor Party What Reg taught me in practice has stood me to bring about the election of a state Labor in very good stead through all the years I government. Reg was one of those people have been involved in the Labor Party, both behind the scenes who did an enormous as an official and as a member of parliament. amount of work—with others such as Clyde Reg’s career was a great one for the Labor Cameron and Jim Toohey and, of course, up- Party. He grew up in the west end of Adel- front Don Dunstan and others—to bring about aide, a traditional Labor area in the 1920s and the election of a state Labor government and 1930s, in an overcrowded working-class ultimately to bring about the election of a suburb that is no longer there because of the federal Labor government. Through all of this change in the urban demography of Adelaide. period that Reg was active in the trade union But Reg was very proud of the fact that he movement, the Labor Party in South Australia was a west end kid. At the age of 15 he left was getting some of its best election results school and got a job as a clerk with the South ever, and Reg should take great credit for Australian Railways in the very late 1920s. assisting in those results. Because of his active mind, he became very In the 1961 federal election he was elected active as a young clerk in the trade union to the Senate, taking up his place here in movement in his workplace at the Islington 1962, and he served in the Senate until his railway workshops. term expired in June 1981—some 19 years. In 1937, at the age of 24 or 25, he became He spent a number of those years on the front a full-time organiser for the ARU, the Aus- bench in opposition and then became a tralian Railways Union. He used to tell me minister, as I have already said, in the about being provided with an old motorbike Whitlam government. His achievement as to go touring around the rural areas of South Postmaster-General is quite striking. When he Australia, particularly Eyre Peninsula, on took over as Postmaster-General, a royal gravel and dirt roads, visiting those small commission had just been completed which townships on the narrow-gauge railway of showed that the administration of the Post- Eyre Peninsula to organise for the union. He master-General’s Department, particularly was in that union for nearly 19 years, apart postal services, was in a dreadful mess. Some from the three years he served in the Royal may remember the mess of the Redfern mail Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7015 exchange and the delay in mail deliveries. ally next year. So never close off all your Reg set about implementing those recommen- options for dialogue or consultation.’ When dations to overcome the industrial anarchy he became a minister he found that some of that existed, which was brought about not the things he was saying as minister in ac- only because of the workers themselves but cordance with a government brief were also because of bad management. He used his contrary to what he used to say in opposition. considerable knowledge of industrial relations He said, ‘Hansard is replete with contradic- and rapidly improved the situation in the post tions where you change sides from being office. opposition to government.’ He said, ‘It is He also put into place the recommenda- always difficult to be 100 per cent consistent tions to break the PMG up into two new but one should always try to be that in poli- statutory authorities—Telecom Australia and tics.’ Australia Post. This was a massive piece of I believe that Reg Bishop not only at the legislation that went through this parliament federal parliamentary level but, in particular, in late 1974, early 1975. At that time there at the state level in South Australia has been were 120,000 employees in the Australian one of the half a dozen key figures who has post office and, as far as I am aware, he over the last 50-odd years made a contribu- reorganised the PMG into two statutory tion beyond any other to the Labor Party’s organisations without any direct industrial success in South Australia. He was not one to dispute. Reg was a strong believer in public be up in neon lights—Reg did not seek much enterprise. He strongly believed in the right publicity for himself—but those of us who for those services of the old PMG to be have followed him have lived on the success provided to the community in public owner- he created for the Labor Party. It was a very ship. I know he was as distressed as anybody great honour for me to have had the oppor- when in 1996 this present government started tunity to work on Reg’s staff during those the privatisation process of what we now call times of the Whitlam government and to have Telstra. That achievement alone will be accepted his advice when I became secretary remembered as a major achievement in of the party. Through difficult times he was anyone’s history of the Australian parliament. always ready to offer advice when you sought Reg retired in 1981 but, being the active it from him but he never did it in a way that person he was, he continued his involvement, was like trying to tell you how to suck eggs support and interest in the Labor Party, the or that he knew better. He was very clever at Trades and Labour Council of South Australia providing advice in a way in which you could and, in particular, the Labour Day celebra- take it and mould your ideas accordingly. tions. Reg was always on everybody’s back Therefore, his passing at the age of 86 is a about making sure they turned up at Labour great loss for the Labor Party in South Aus- Day marches. He did everything possible to tralia. keep the Labour Day march and the Labour He lived most of this century for the Labor Day celebrations going as he saw it as a Party in South Australia and his contribution commemoration of all those people in the was significant. He worked full time for the trade union movement, going back over 100 Labor Party for over 60 years of his life— years, who had worked to improve the work- from a mid-teenager to when he died—and ing conditions of ordinary Australians. that is a remarkable record. He lost his wife As Senator Faulkner said, Reg was a very Connie only a couple of years ago. She was direct person. He would always tell you very a great stalwart and worker for the Labor directly and honestly what he thought about movement in her own right. He leaves a an idea, but he never carried a chip on his family and grandchildren who were the shoulder and he never carried a vendetta. delight of his life when I worked for him, and Within the Labor Party he used to say, ‘Re- he leaves many great memories for many of member that your political enemy in the us in South Australia. All I can say is: as long Labor Party this month may be your political as many of us continue in this place and 7016 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 elsewhere in South Australia, his contribution advice. We used to get very good first-class will never be forgotten. advice, but we also got a mateship, a friend- Senator HARRADINE (Tasmania) (4.57 ship, out of it. Indeed, I think it can be said p.m.)—I thank Senator Quirke for allowing that Reg Bishop was a man who gave himself me to intervene here as I have a meeting at 5 to the Labor Party, who gave himself to the p.m. I do not know whether I am the only one Labor movement and who gave himself to here who was serving in the parliament when people. He was always there. Reg was here, but I do remember taking over Reg had a long life. He was born some 12 Reg’s office when he became a minister. That years after Federation. His life covered every was very interesting. His press secretary at the major political and historical event of this time had left some very interesting material century until a matter of a few weeks ago. in the drawers. Not being terribly interested Other speakers in here have given biographi- in the material, I was able to give it back to cal details of when he joined the trade union Reg. movement, when he first went to work— Reg did a lot of unsung work, if you like. which I understand was in 1927—when he It has been observed that he was very direct became the secretary of the Trades and in what he said. I found him not only to be Labour Council and when he came to the direct but also to have some very well chosen Senate. I want to discuss the importance of words. When you discussed some things with this man to the Labor Party and to the Labor him he would use a particular phrase which movement as such. I will not use here—it is not obscene, but it I well remember how I met Reg Bishop. I is not parliamentary—and you would know had made some comments at a state council where you stood. He would be able to go meeting and Reg came up to me. He did not through other things with you and discuss like what I had to say. I cannot remember them face to face. exactly what it was now. I tried to remember The portfolios that he held were indeed for the eulogy at the funeral. It was something portfolios in which he made his mark. He said I said which upset one of my great friends, that he obviously dealt with all people, irre- Georgie Whetherall. Neither George nor I spective of their background, in the same could remember what it was, but such was the way: he did not waste his words. I think that role that Reg played that I remember him is an important and likeable characteristic for coming up to me in the Trades Hall bar, a member of parliament. I suppose people buying me a drink and then taking me around would say, ‘It is a pity there are not a few the corner and saying, ‘Look, you got this more of you.’ I express my condolences to wrong tonight. This is what you should have Reg’s family, his daughter and son particular- said,’ or words to that effect. ly, and to his many friends in South Australia. Reg had a way of bringing people together. I associate myself very firmly with this In fact, when he left the Senate, Reg’s role motion of condolence. was not only to keep the trade union move- Senator QUIRKE (South Australia— ment strong in South Australia, to keep the Leader of the Government in the Senate) Labor Party strong, but also to foster the next (5.00 p.m.)—I wish to be associated with this generation of Labor people in federal and condolence motion as well. I understand that state politics. All the political generations in Reg Bishop’s time here Senator Harradine, were at his funeral—from Gough Whitlam Senator Watson and, for a very short time, and many of the surviving ministers of that Senator Reid served with Reg. Reg used to period right the way through to many people always tell me that the best thing was to live in Young Labor today and teenagers. They all long enough so no-one could actually remem- knew Reg. They looked forward to meeting ber you. Indeed, Reg had a long life. It is him. He was the sort of fellow who, when he very sad for myself and for others who used came into your office, no matter what you to meet regularly with Reg. I can quite hon- were doing or what your staff were doing, estly say that we used to lean on Reg for they took time to talk with because they knew Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7017 they were talking to a living legend. It is very here, in South Australia and wherever he was. sad that Reg is no longer with us. I will miss He was a larger than life figure. I am proud the many Friday lunches I used to have with to have known him. Some of my great mem- him where we would range over topics and I ories in the Labor Party are the times I spent would watch as party members would be in with Reg, with Jim Toohey and with some of awe of this man and the stories he could tell the others who were there. I am grateful that and the range of views he could bring to any I lived through these times and that I met discussion which took place. some of the great men of the Australian Labor I think on the Thursday night before his Party. funeral—in fact, I know that was the night; Senator BOLKUS (South Australia) (5.06 we had our state council—an argument p.m.)—I also rise to speak to this condolence erupted at the state council which I found motion. I regret that I was not able to be rather interesting at the time. Somebody got present at Reg Bishop’s funeral because I was up—I will not mention any names—and in the middle of the Tanami Desert at the invoked Reg’s name. They said, ‘Look, time and could not get back. But I do take effectively this would never have happened. this opportunity to speak not just as a Labor Reg would never have sanctioned this. Reg Party senator but also as a former staffer of would never have done that. Reg would never Reg Bishop. I worked with him initially in the have done this.’ Somebody else got up and veterans’ affairs portfolio, Repatriation as it took objection to it and said that we should then was, and also when he was Postmaster- not say that about somebody who so recently General. had died. In fact, I always took the view, and I still do, that it is better to be remembered I came here in 1981 when Reg Bishop that way than not to be remembered at all. retired from this place—in essence, I took his place. Reg, as everyone has said this after- While sitting back listening to this argument noon, was a special person. He was amiable. going on, I thought it was rather amusing that He had a cheerful disposition. If you got we were actually sitting in the Bishop Audito- something wrong, he very clearly and quickly rium. And, yes, it was named after Reg told you so, but it did not damage the ongo- Bishop for the work he did to build the ing relationships within the office. But he was Trades Hall in South Australia. Reg was a also crafty, cunning and extremely capable, distinguished politician. He was a distin- and I think the Senate records would bear guished Labor senator. He was a distinguished witness to that. Many of his achievements trade unionist. There are many things which, have been mentioned this afternoon by Sena- in the end, could proudly be said are on Reg tor Schacht and Senator Quirke—those as a Bishop’s masthead. trade unionist, a senator and a minister—but He loved his family. He loved his wife. I one thing that needs to be noted about Reg is spoke in here in an adjournment debate in his humble beginnings. Despite those begin- September 1997 when Connie died. Connie nings, he never let success take carriage of had had a stroke. She was not very well at all. him. She had a very sad and terrible end. For the In a sense, Reg and I are and were so 18 months or so before that time, Reg was different with so many years between us and there every day. I quite often used to drive different cultural backgrounds altogether, but him out to where Connie was. Even at the age we did ironically share quite a bit, and it was of 86 Reg got around. Reg had no problems not just the Australian Labor Party and some whatsoever with any kind of mobility. His involvement with the trade union movement. end came very quickly. In many respects, Reg was also a long-time dedicated member after what he went through with Connie, I of the West Adelaide Football Club, a club of think that that in itself was a blessing. which I was a committee member for some Reg was a religious man. Reg was a man 10 years, and we would always talk about the who believed very strongly in loyalty. Reg politics of the club and how the club was was a man who dominated his era in politics going on the field. 7018 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

But the origin that we did share was where Senator Faulkner looks around in surprise, but we were both born. Ironically, though, and the Chinatown lunch club still continues as decades apart, Reg and I were born in Hock- one of those informal institutions of Labor ing Place in Adelaide, just off Sturt Street and politics in South Australia. just around the corner from St Vincent de Much has been said of his humble origins. Paul and the Salvation Army and from White- Chris Schacht mentioned the work he did as more Square. It is a little street with some 14 an organiser with the Railways Union. One or 15 houses. I went back there last week for thing I am reminded of consistently—I was some reason and noticed that very little had by Reg and I have been by some of his changed—most of them are all 60, 70 or 80 former colleagues in recent weeks—is the fact years old. In a sense it is a dead-end street, that, when Reg was an organiser out in the but it is a street from which two senators of peninsula, out in the back blocks, his one the national parliament have been produced, form of mobility was a pedal bike as opposed and Reg and I always talked about the fact to the cars that are available now. He was not that two of us came from a street of about 15 afraid of hard work and dedication. He was houses—a street that was and continues to be also crafty. Senator Harradine mentioned one basically in one of the poorer parts of Adel- of the words that Reg would often use, and it aide. Whitemore Square still has its unfair is a word that appears in the story I am about share of homeless and unemployed frequent- to tell. ing the street, the Salvation Army is still full and St Vincent de Paul still gets a big roll up I remember being with him in the AMP at about 6 o’clock at night. building when he was Postmaster-General and it was the lead-up to budget decision making We did share that and we did share the in 1974 and the Postmaster-General’s Depart- essence of being westenders, something that ment advised him that the price of local calls never left him till his death and something had to go up and there was no option but to that I am sure I will carry with me while I am increase them by a large amount. The reasons alive. It was a twist of fate, therefore, that I were technical: all the telephone boxes across took his place in the Senate, and I can assure the country could not take anything other than other senators that I was not back in Hocking 20c as opposed to the then current rate of 5c Place to try to find future Senate candidates or thereabouts. Reg’s response was, in a for the Labor Party. There are enough of sense, one word. It starts with frog, the next those around already. two letters are ‘sh’, and he basically told the I worked with Reg for quite some years. It senior officers that there was another way was my first job in politics. I worked with around it. They insisted that they were right, Chris Schacht, and Reg had as one of his but he told them all to jump into the car with great friends John Quirke. That ambit of him. They drove down to the local PMG friendships, that ambit of personalities, reflect- depot and spoke to a local mechanic who ed in the three names that I mentioned shows assured him that what he wanted to do could what a special character Reg Bishop actually be done, which consequently put senior was. Having had Bolkus, Schacht and Quirke officers of the Postmaster-General’s Depart- in common as friends makes him an extra- ment back in their box. ordinary character in one sense or another. Reg, as Chris Schacht said, was a giant in We had a bit of history together when in Labor politics and, as Senator Quirke men- 1974 we were working for the Whitlam tioned, was so till the end. Connie was an government. Between Reg Bishop, Don important part of his life, and we all got to Cameron, Chris Schacht and me, we started know and cherish relationships with her. In the Chinatown Friday lunch club, which I summary, I will say that Reg Bishop was one think continues to exist. The bottles of Ben of West End’s best. I also offer my condo- Ean and moselle that we started drinking in lences to his family. the 1970s have probably run out, and so Senator CROWLEY (South Australia) probably has the Queen Adelaide riesling. (5.13 p.m.)—I wish to join in supporting this Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7019 condolence motion for former Senator Reg Reg and Connie were a duo of the same Bishop. Most everything that needs to be said character—exactly the same. It is a pity we has been said. I just wanted to put on the cannot in some way find the words that would record my own particular and special experi- so fully describe these people who were, until ence of Reg Bishop. He retired from the the time of Connie’s death, really devoted to Senate just as I arrived into it, but he be- each other and to their families, their children longed to a special group of Labor Party and grandchildren. They were also very people in South Australia who were extremely supportive of each other. If Reg wanted to strong in encouraging women into the Labor promote and support an aspiring young Party—and I would include amongst those Senator Rosemary Crowley, then Connie people like Mick Young, perhaps first and would too. Not that she followed Reg; she foremost, Jim Toohey and Geoff Virgo, to made up her own mind. Likewise, if Connie name some of them. People like Reg Bishop, were to support an issue in the Labor Party, I know and acknowledge, contributed to my then Reg would join her in that. being given the nod for preselection for politics in South Australia. Quite clearly, they were people of inde- pendent mind and different opinion but also That may not be a characteristic that distin- very able to talk things through and arrive at guishes him or makes him mighty by many a point of agreement. In fact, I think Connie people’s criteria, but it certainly does by belonged with a special group of women mine. But it was also not a fashionable view called the Hawker Ladies in the federal seat at the time. It is important to remember that of Hawker who at one stage were very able for a while there the Labor Party was way out to explain to the men in the Labor Party that, in front with the preselection of women and despite what the men in the Labor Party that we could be successful in House of thought about the role of women in the Labor Representatives or Senate preselections only Party, these women were about to tell them if men in the Labor Party supported us be- their description was not sufficient; and they cause the women in the Labor Party could not proceeded to set in motion and establish the achieve that; they did not have 50 per cent. so-called Hawker Ladies, who worked for the Regretfully, I suspect it is probably true that Labor Party, raised funds for the Labor Party, they still do not have 50 per cent, and one supported all sorts of candidates over many would not presume that all women would years and were characteristic of the party at necessarily want to vote on the same side. the time—to do with generosity, to do with an understanding of what the Labor movement Senator Hill—They judge other women was on about, to do with why it was so pretty harshly. important to have Labor governments and to Senator CROWLEY—I would think this make sure that the people they worked for would be a point that you would have great were represented by legislation, programs and sympathy for, Senator Hill. Unanimity of services which would ensure that they were view or support, I guess we are talking about able to live the kinds of lives they wanted, to here, whatever the gender. So I think that is make things okay for them but in particular the first thing I would have to note about to make it better for their kids. Reg and Reg. Connie were quintessential, core Labor Party people of that mould and they belong, I think, Secondly—and this word has been men- to a very special piece of history in the Labor tioned already—Reg was unfailingly generous Party in South Australia. I appreciated the and unfailingly prepared to listen. No matter support over many years of the Hawker what time of day or how tired he was, Reg Ladies. was always prepared to give an ear and pay serious attention to what you were saying. He Connie Bishop and Reg Bishop were a did not have that ‘I’ve got to go, come back team. They were unfailing in their generosity later’ attitude. ‘Generous’ is the word I would and their contribution, for those values that use about Reg. they held so very dear they in fact lived out 7020 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 through their day-to-day living. There was no That the Senate expresses its deep regret at the ‘now I am at the Labor Party’ and ‘now I am death, on Thursday, 8 July 1999, of the Reverend going to be an ordinary citizen’. The values Doctor the Honourable Malcolm Mackay, AM, a member of the House of Representatives for the that they held dear were the sorts of values division of Evans in the State of New South Wales they believed in the Labor Party, in their from 1963 to 1972 and Minister for the Navy from family, amongst their friends and in all the March 1971 to December 1972, places on record community and charitable work that they were its appreciation of his long and meritorious public involved in. They were actually splendid service and tenders its profound sympathy to his exemplars, and it is a shame that we will now family in their bereavement. depend on stories told about them rather than Malcolm George Mackay was born on 29 the full oral histories that perhaps we have December 1919 at Brighton, South Australia. missed the opportunity to really get from such Malcolm was educated at the Adelaide Tech- people. nical High School and, after finishing school, I want to put on the record my appreciation became a cadet engineer with the Adelaide of them for being the sort of people they were Electric Supply Company. in that they were able to model that without Malcolm was a man of several careers— ever looking for their name in lights; never public, private and parliamentary—all earnest- did they seek that. But they were a model ly pursued and complementary to his central couple of the sorts of values that were so dear faith and values. During World War II, to their hearts. I also want to acknowledge Malcolm was mobilised as a sublieutenant in that they were great supporters of mine. I the Royal Australian Naval Volunteer Reserve would like to place on the record that until from 1941 until 1944, during which time he the day I die I will appreciate their support— served in the New Guinea area. He was today, in particular, Reg Bishop’s support. discharged on demobilisation with the rank of That does not cover the important things acting lieutenant. that others have said about Reg’s origins in After the war, Malcolm Mackay studied at West Adelaide and his contribution to the the universities of both Adelaide and Mel- union movement and politics. I can only bourne, gaining a Bachelor of Arts and a concur with everything my colleagues have Bachelor of Divinity, before working his way said. I wanted to take this opportunity to put to Britain where he enrolled at the University my somewhat different appreciation of Reg of Edinburgh and gained his doctorate degree. and Connie on the public record and also to Malcolm then returned to Australia and began take the opportunity to convey my deepest a long and distinguished career with the sympathy to their children and grandchildren Presbyterian Church. From 1954 until 1956 he on the loss of two very special people. was the General Secretary, Australia, for the The PRESIDENT—I ask honourable World Council of Churches; in 1957 he senators to stand in silence to signify their became the first Australian-born minister of assent to the motion. Sydney’s Scots Church; he was the Founda- Question resolved in the affirmative, hon- tion Master of Basser College at the Universi- ourable senators standing in their places. ty of New South Wales from 1959. Mackay, Hon. Malcolm George, AM Malcolm Mackay entered federal parliament as the member for Evans in 1963. He served The PRESIDENT—It is with deep regret the McMahon government as Minister for the that I inform the Senate of the death on 8 July Navy from 1971 until he left the parliament 1999, of the Hon. Malcolm George Mackay, in 1972. During his parliamentary career, AM, member of the House of Representatives Malcolm served as Chairman of the House of for the division of Evans from 1963 to 1972 Representatives Select Committee on Pharma- and Minister for the Navy from 1971 to 1972. ceutical Benefits from September 1970 until Senator HILL (South Australia—Leader of March 1971. He was a member of the parlia- the Government in the Senate) (5.21 p.m.)— mentary delegation to Indo-China in 1970 and by leave—I move: led an Australian parliamentary mission to Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7021

Japan and Korea in 1972. One of his many entered politics in the early 1960s—as a cadet achievements was becoming founding presi- engineer and then, of course, as a devoted dent of the Association of Former Members Presbyterian, a lay preacher and home of the Parliament of Australia. He remained missionary in the Adelaide Hills. He served an executive member of the association until as a minister in a number of Presbyterian his death. parishes in rural New South Wales and Malcolm’s public activities included con- Victoria. From 1954 until 1956 he was the ducting a weekly current affairs television General Secretary, Australia, for the World program, The Burning Question, from 1957 Council of Churches and then in 1957 became until 1961 before moving to the ABC for the minister of the Scots Church, the first Austral- program Open Hearing from 1963 to 1971. ian to achieve that office. Malcolm Mackay’s concerns for the young Compared with his life in the church, his people of Australia were clear throughout all parliamentary career was relatively brief. He of his public activities and, indeed, from the entered federal parliament in 1963 in the seat start of his parliamentary career. In his first of Evans and held that seat until 1972 and speech he spoke extensively on the need for was appointed Minister for the Navy by the educational resources. He praised youth as then Prime Minister, Mr McMahon, in 1971. ‘having a zest for living and an inquiring He was someone who continued his interest mind’. in politics after his time in the parliament and After he left the political scene in 1972, he became the founding president and an exec- spent five years in Scotland, much of the time utive member of the Association of Former writing articles and a book, More than Co- Members of Parliament of Australia. incidence. In 1979 he was Assistant Minister On behalf of the opposition, I join with the of Scots Church Melbourne and Acting government in expressing the opposition’s Minister at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, sincere condolences to Dr Mackay’s family on Canberra in 1991. His enthusiasm for, and the tragic death of Dr Mackay and his wife in faith in, the future of Australia was recog- a car accident. To his family and friends we nised when in 1986 Malcolm was appointed express our sincere condolences. as a member in the Order of Australia for Senator BOSWELL (Queensland—Leader service to the community, particularly in the of the National Party of Australia in the fields of religion, education and politics. Senate and Parliamentary Secretary to the Tragically, Malcolm Mackay was killed in Minister for Transport and Regional Services) a motor vehicle accident which also claimed (5.30 p.m.)—I rise to associate the National the life of his wife of over 40 years, Ruth. On Party in the Senate with the condolence behalf of the government, I extend to their motion, moved by Senator Hill on behalf of children Andrew and Margaret and to their the government, for the Hon. Dr Malcolm families our most sincere sympathy in their George Mackay, who passed away with his bereavement. wife last month at the age of 79. Malcolm Senator FAULKNER (New South Wales— Mackay was born and raised in Adelaide. He Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) (5.26 began his working career as a cadet engineer p.m.)— I would, on behalf of the opposi- with the Adelaide Electric Supply Company. tion, associate the opposition with the motion He served Australia in World War II from that Senator Hill has moved on behalf of the 1941 as a sublieutenant in the Royal Austral- government on the death of the Hon. Rev. Dr ian Navy Volunteer Reserve. He was dis- Malcolm Mackay. As Senator Hill has indi- charged on demobilisation in 1944 with the cated, Dr Mackay was a member of the rank of acting lieutenant. McMahon government and a former minister Malcolm Mackay was firmly committed to in that government and had a very interesting the Presbyterian Church. During his days as background that he brought to the Common- an engineer, he spent time preaching and was wealth parliament. He was highly educated a home missionary at Mount Barker in the and had quite a diverse career—before he Adelaide Hills. He held ministries in regional 7022 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

New South Wales and Victoria, and he The petition of certain members of the La Trobe became general secretary of the World Coun- University community points out to the Senate the cil of Churches in Australia. In 1957, he detrimental effects that Voluntary Student Union- ism (VSU) legislation will have on the Students of became the first Australian to be appointed La Trobe University. minister of the Scotch Church in Sydney. Before his political life began, Malcolm Draws to the attention of the Senate: compered a religious affairs program on If VSU legislation is put in place it will mean Channel 7 and a current affairs program on the end to vital services provided by Student Organisations such as: the ABC. Child Care In 1963, he was elected to parliament in Student Representation the federal seat of Evans, and later became Minister for the Navy from 1971 to 1972 in Academic Advocacy the McMahon government. He was chairman Clubs and Societies of the House of Representatives Select Com- Legal Service mittee on Pharmaceutical Benefits from 1970 Sport and Recreation to 1971. He led the Australian parliamentary Entertainment mission to Japan and Korea in 1970. During his time in government he always stuck to his Dr Kemp states that this legislation will ‘ensure that all students have the same freedoms on campus conservative beliefs. He was often described that they have off campus’. This is currently the as one of the most conservative people in case. parliament. After being defeated in the 1972 Membership of these organisations is already election, he moved to Scotland before return- voluntary in that students may choose to be a ing to Australia in 1981. In 1988, he became member or not. the founding president of the Association of Your petitioners therefore ask the Senate to reject Former Members of Parliament of Australia. the VSU legislation. Today I wish to extend my sympathy to his by The President (from 123 citizens). family and offer them the condolences of the National Party. Genetically Engineered Food To the Honourable the President and Members of Question resolved in the affirmative, hon- the Senate in Parliament assembled: ourable senators standing in their places. The Petition of the undersigned shows that NUCLEAR WEAPONS unsafe practices are being followed in Australia, namely the sale and distribution of genetically Senator SCHACHT (South Australia) modified foods that have not been labelled as such. (5.31 p.m.)—I seek leave of the Senate to Your petitioners request that the Senate should table a declaration. It is not a petition. The take all actions within its power, to prohibit the declaration has been discussed with the sale and distribution of all unlabelled genetically opposition and the representatives of minor modified foods. parties, and I have got approval to seek leave by The President (from 4 citizens). to have it tabled. It is a declaration signed by several hundred people individually, asking Sexuality Discrimination for support for the abolition of nuclear To the Honourable the President and Members of weapons by the year 2000. the Senate in the Parliament assembled. Leave granted. The Petition of the undersigned shows: That Australian citizens oppose social, legal and eco- PETITIONS nomic discrimination against people on the basis of their sexuality or transgender identity and that such The Clerk—Petitions have been lodged for discrimination is unacceptable in a democratic presentation as follows: society. Your petitioners request that the Senate should: Student Unionism pass the Australian Democrats Bill to make it To the Honourable the President of the Senate and unlawful to discriminate or vilify on the basis of Senators assembled in Parliament. sexuality or transgender identity so that such Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7023 discrimination or vilification be open to redress at continuing massive scale of Human Rights abuses, a national level. and the continuing takeover of East Timorese land by Senator Bartlett (from 10 citizens). by illegal Indonesian immigrants. Your petitioners ask the Senate to call on the Genetically Engineered Food Australian Government to set up a non-partisan To the Honourable President and Members of the Working Group to work on: Senate in the Parliament assembled. 1. Rescinding of de jure recognition of Indo- The Petition of the undersigned call on the nesian sovereignty over East Timor. Federal Parliament to ensure that the current 2. Supporting the release and repatriation of all regulations relating to food content are retained by East Timorese prisoners in Indonesian jails. the Australian New Zealand Food Authority and that adequate food labelling is introduced which 3. Providing temporary visas for all East allows the Australian community to make a real Timorese asylum-seekers in Australia until it is safe choice when it comes to the purchase and con- for them to return to East Timor. sumption of food. 4. Supporting the U.N. Secretary-General in his Your Petitioners ask that the Senate support efforts to achieve a comprehensive peace plan for legislation which will ensure that all processed food East Timor. products sold in Australia be fully labelled. This by Senator Brown (from 239 citizens). labelling must include: all additives Goods and Services Tax: Tasmania percentage of ingredients To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled: nutritional information The petition of the undersigned shows that country of origin citizens of Tasmania think that the government’s food derived from genetically engineered organ- taxation package, including the goods and services isms tax, does not provide sufficient information nor by Senator Bartlett (from 15 citizens). detail and hence is open to inequitable application during its implementation. World Heritage Area: Great Barrier Your petitioners ask/request that the Senate Reef should not pass the legislation until the following To the Honourable President and Members of the questions are resolved fairly and equitable for the Senate in the Parliament assembled. citizens of Tasmania: The Petition of the undersigned shows strong 1. How will the government ensure Tasmania is disappointment in the Australian Government’s treated fairly in comparison to the more affluent inadequate protection of the Great Barrier Reef and larger States? Tasmania, on a per capita basis, World Heritage Area from the destructive practices has the highest unemployment, lowest average of prawn trawling. Prawn trawling destroys up to weekly wage, the oldest population, the greatest 10 tonnes of other reef life for every one tonne of number of people dependent on government income prawns while clearfelling the sea floor. There are support and the most decentralised population of 11 million square kilometres of Australia’s ocean any state of Australia. The government’s model for territory of which the reef represents just 350,000 estimating the cost of the GST does not allow for square kilometres. the different economic and social patterns between states. Your Petitioners ask that the Senate support the phasing out of all prawn trawling in the Great 2. How will the government ensure families can Barrier Reef World Heritage Area by the year afford good food which will be relatively more 2005. expensive in respect to ‘junk’ foods whose price will decrease after the removal of sales tax? by Senator Bartlett (from 16 citizens). Tasmanians pay the highest costs for food in Australia and are among the worst health status East Timor population in Australia. To the Honourable the President and Members of 3. How will the government ensure that organisa- the Senate in Parliament assembled: tions and charities can continue to provide the The petition of the undersigned draws to the necessary community services and support to attention of the Senate Indonesia’s continuing disadvantaged citizens? Community organisations illegal occupation of East Timor, its refusal to and charities in Tasmania will face a double withdraw its troops in accordance with U.N. jeopardy from the implementation of the Tax Security Council Resolutions 384 and 389, the Package. It is predicted that poverty in Tasmania 7024 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 will increase and more people will be seeking extra Uranium: World Heritage Areas assistance. At the same time organisations will have To the Honourable the President and Members of a reduced capacity to meet those needs because of the Senate in the Parliament assembled. increased administrative costs associated with compliance and in many instances reduced revenue The Petition of the undersigned strongly opposes because of the application of the tax to such things any attempts by the Australian government to mine as membership fees and fund raising. uranium at the Jabiluka and Koongara sites in the World Heritage Listed Area of the Kakadu National 4. How will government ensure that service Park or any other proposed or current operating quality and scope of education, child care and site. health services can be maintained without increas- Your Petitioners ask that the Senate oppose any ing the costs of these services? The government intentions by the Australian government to support proposes that essential services such as education, the nuclear industry via any mining, enrichment child care and health will be GST free. However, and sale of uranium. community based organisations offering these services will have increased costs arising from the by Senator Lees (from 390 citizens). extra administration and accounting requirements Parliamentary Contributory of the tax package. Superannuation Scheme by Senator Brown (from 79 citizens). To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament Assembled: Nuclear Weapons The Petition of the Undersigned shows that we To the Honourable the President and Members of believe that the current Parliamentary Contributory the Senate in Parliament assembled: Superannuation Scheme provides benefits to retired The Petition of the undersigned shows that the members which are overly generous and unfair. Canberra Commission on the Elimination of Your petitioners ask the Senate to call on the Nuclear Weapons (November 1995) calls for Australian Government to: countries throughout the world to commit them- Act swiftly to bring the Parliamentary Contributory selves unequivocally to the establishment of Superannuation Scheme in line with community Nuclear Weapons Free Zones. standards by: In the light of this, your petitioners are calling (1) Reducing the taxpayer subsidy which current- upon all Parties represented in the Federal Parlia- ly stands at an average of $6 contributed by ment to actively promote the establishment of such taxpayers for every $1 contributed by Senators and Nuclear Weapons Free and Nuclear Free Zones by members; ceasing access to all Australian ports by nuclear (2) Instructing the Remuneration Tribunal to powered vessels and vessels with a nuclear arma- substantially reduce benefits; ments capacity. (3) Removing the early payment of benefits, so by Senator Brown (from 16 citizens). that they are payable at the age of 55 in line with the rest of the community; Uranium: World Heritage Areas (4) Supporting the Australian Democrats’ Private Members’ Bill to overhaul the politicians’ superan- To the Honourable the President and Members of nuation scheme to achieve these aims. the Senate and the Speaker and Members of the House of Representatives in the Parliament by Senator Faulkner (from 23 citizens). assembled: Goods and Services Tax: Food The petition of the undersigned shows that To the Honourable the President and Members of attempts by any Australian Government to mine the Senate assembled in Parliament: Uranium at the Jabiluka site in the World Heritage The petition of certain citizens of Australia draws Listed area of the Kakadu National Park are to the attention of the House that a Goods and considered unacceptable. We are convinced the Services Tax (GST) on food will disadvantage low proposed mine would recklessly endanger the to middle income earners. World Heritage values of the Kakadu National Park Your petitioners request that the House does not and ignores the unequivocal opposition of the support the introduction of a Goods and Services Mirrar people to the project. Tax, while that legislation includes a GST on food, Your petitioners request that the Senate and the and that work be undertaken to address the general House of Representatives oppose the intentions of issue of the fairness of the taxation system in any Australian Government to mine uranium at the Australia i.e. a total review. Jabiluka site. by Senator Woodley (from 1,873 citizens). by Senator Brown (from 16 citizens). Petitions received. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7025

THE PRESIDENT: ELECTION Opposition, the Australian Democrats or any Independent Senator, and that such questions be put Senator HARRIS (Queensland) (5.32 accordingly. p.m.)—by leave—I apologise to Madam President for incorrectly referring to her as the (contingent on the moving of a motion to Speaker whilst congratulating her on her re- debate a matter of urgency under standing election. I formally apologise for that action. order 75) That so much of the standing orders be suspend- NOTICES ed as would prevent the senator moving an amend- ment to the motion. Presentation (contingent on the President proceeding to the Senator Harris to move: placing of business on any day) (contingent on the Senate on any day con- That so much of the standing orders be suspend- cluding its consideration of any item of ed as would prevent the senator moving a motion business and prior to the Senate proceeding to relating to the order of business on the Notice the consideration of another item of business) Paper. That so much of the standing orders be suspend- (contingent on any senator being refused ed as would prevent the senator moving a motion leave to make a statement to the Senate) relating to the conduct of the business of the Senate or to provide for the consideration of any other That so much of the standing orders be suspend- matter. ed as would prevent that senator making that statement. (contingent on the Senate proceeding to the consideration of government documents) (contingent on a minister at question time on any day asking that further questions be That so much of the standing orders relating to placed on notice) the consideration of government documents be suspended as would prevent the senator moving a That so much of the standing orders be suspend- motion relating to the order in which the documents ed as would prevent the senator moving a motion are called on by the President. that, at question time on any day, questions may be put to ministers until 28 questions, including (contingent on a minister moving a motion supplementary questions, have been asked and that a bill be considered an urgent bill) answered. That so much of standing order 142 be suspend- (contingent on any senator being refused ed as would prevent debate taking place on the motion. leave to table a document in the Senate) That so much of the standing orders be suspend- (contingent on a minister moving a motion to ed as would prevent the senator moving that the specify time to be allotted to the consideration document be tabled. of a bill, or any stage of a bill) Senator Allison to move, on the next day That so much of standing order 142 be suspend- ed as would prevent the motion being debated of sitting: without limitation of time and each senator speak- That the following matters be referred to the ing for the time allotted by standing orders. Environment, Communications, Information Tech- nology and the Arts References Committee for (contingent on the chair declaring that the inquiry and report by 1 September 2000: time allotted for the consideration of a bill, or any stage of a bill, has expired) The progress and adequacy of Australia’s poli- cies to reduce global warming, with particular That so much of standing order 142 be suspend- reference to: ed as would prevent further consideration of the bill, or the stage of the bill, without limitation of (a) the effectiveness of Australian policies to time or for a specified time. reduce greenhouse emissions in the light of Australia’s commitments under the frame- (contingent on the chair declaring that the work convention on climate change, includ- time allotted for the consideration of a bill, or ing: any stage of a bill, has expired) (i) the appropriateness of Australia’s com- That so much of standing order 142 be suspend- mitments under the framework conven- ed as would prevent the questions being put in tion, particularly under the December respect of any amendments circulated by the 1997 Kyoto Protocol, 7026 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

(ii) the effectiveness of Australia’s policies in That the time for the presentation of the report comparison to international practice, such of the Economics Legislation Committee on the as emissions trading regimes and other Customs Amendment (Warehouses) Bill 1999 and measures, and a related bill be extended to 12 August 1999. (iii) the level, and greenhouse implications, of Senator Tierney to move, on the next day the direct and indirect economic incen- of sitting: tives currently offered to both fossil fuel and renewable energy projects; That the time for the presentation of the reports of the Employment, Workplace Relations, Small (b) whether Australian government programs Business and Education Legislation Committee on and policies, both state and federal, are the provisions of the Tradesmen’s Rights Regula- sufficient to provide for the development in tion Repeal Bill 1999 and on the Navigation Australia of emerging renewable energy and Amendment (Employment of Seafarers) Bill 1998 energy efficiency industries, including: be extended to 12 August 1999. (i) the effectiveness of Australia’s efforts in Senator Carr to move, on the next day of relation to other national governments, and sitting: (ii) the potential of these technologies to That the Senate calls on the Minister representing contribute to a reduction in Australia’s the Minister for Transport and Regional Services greenhouse emissions; (Senator Macdonald) to declare that the Geelong Road linking Melbourne and Geelong be treated, by (c) potential improvements to Australia’s poli- reason of its national importance, either as a cies to reduce greenhouse emissions, in the national highway or as a road of national import- light of available studies of: ance for the purposes of funding under the Austral- (i) current and projected fossil fuel use in ian Land Transport Development Act 1998. Australia, taking into account the effects Senator Harris to move, on the next day of current greenhouse reduction policies, of sitting: trends in transport use of fuels, the use of energy by high-demand manufacturing That— and changes to electricity ownership and (1) The Senate directs that each senator provide generation, to the President, and the President present (ii) projected climate change impacts on to the Senate, on or before the tenth day of Australian industries, such as fishing, sitting after the passage of this resolution, a tourism, agriculture and others, certification, signed by the senator, that the senator is, to the best of the senator’s know- (iii) estimated costs of such economic impacts, ledge, qualified to serve in the Senate under to assist cost-benefit analysis of various section 44 of the Constitution, together with climate change abatement programs and documentary proof that the senator is not policies, and subject to the disability referred to in para- (iv) the impact of current land clearing prac- graph 44(i) of the Constitution. tices and policies on current and projected (2) For the purpose of paragraph (1), the docu- greenhouse emissions; and mentary proof is: (d) the projected effect of climate change on (a) a copy of a birth certificate indicating that Australia’s ecosystems, including, but not the senator was born in Australia and a limited to: certification signed by the senator that the (i) reef systems, senator has not subsequently been a (ii) alpine areas, and citizen of another country; and (iii) wetland areas. (b) if the senator was not born in Australia or has ever been a citizen of another coun- Senator Knowles to move, on the next day try, documentation indicating that the of sitting: senator has taken all reasonable steps to That the time for the presentation of the report renounce any foreign nationality or of the Community Affairs Legislation Committee citizenship. on the provisions of the Social Security (Adminis- Senator Chris Evans to move, on the next tration) Bill 1999 and two related bills be extended day of sitting: to 23 August 1999. That the following matter be referred to the Senator Gibson to move, on the next day Community Affairs References Committee for of sitting: inquiry and report by 30 June 2000: Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7027

How, within the legislated principles of and Harris to make their first speeches Medicare, hospital services can be improved by without any question before the chair. changes to Commonwealth and state responsibili- ties, closer working arrangements between the Senator FAULKNER (New South Wales— public and private sectors and better national Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) (5.36 standards for quality of care, with particular p.m.)—I want to ask the Manager of Govern- reference to: ment Business a question. I just want to be (a) the effectiveness of the Australian Health clear on this. Is the 20-minute time limit Care Agreements in delivering adequate going to apply to these speeches? Is that the hospital funding to meet the demand for government’s proposal? public hospital services; The reason I ask is that, as you would be (b) how state and federal responsibilities, fund- ing and service arrangements might be aware, Mr Acting Deputy President improved to remove duplication and the McKiernan, sometimes a little generosity has incentives for cost shifting to promote been applied. But there might be a little greater efficiency and better health care; inconsistency here as to whether we enable a (c) how to better coordinate funding and ser- senator, if they have not quite completed their vices provided by different levels of govern- remarks in 20 minutes, to have an extension ment to ensure the appropriate care is of time. That is the reason I raise this issue. provided through the whole episode of care, It strikes me that in first speeches we ought both in hospitals and the community; to be a little generous in relation to time (d) whether there has been any reduction in limits. I wonder if the government has given demand on public hospitals as a result of any thought to this or if, by leave, we could the private health insurance rebate; perhaps agree to extend a little more generosi- (e) the extent of use of public hospitals by ty than we normally would, that is all. private patients and the way these costs are provided for under the Australian Health Senator CHRIS EVANS (Western Austral- Care Agreements; ia) (5.37 p.m.)—by leave—I want to support (f) the impact of privatisation of public hospi- the view that has just been put by my leader, tals on the cost, availability and quality of Senator Faulkner. I think under the previous service; arrangements the whips had in place it was (g) the scope for private hospitals to tender to understood that if a first speech went to a deliver services for public patients; maximum of 25 minutes nobody would (h) the adequacy of currency national reporting interrupt. On the last occasion first speeches arrangements for standards of care, includ- were given, the President ruled quite correctly ing waiting times; and in terms of the formal arrangement and cut (i) the effectiveness of quality improvement off a senator giving a first speech. That was programs to reduce the frequency of adverse never the intention of anyone. On that occa- events. sion it had been agreed that the 20 minutes BUSINESS was a guide to new senators and advice was given to some of them that they would not be First Speeches interrupted if they went a few minutes longer. Motion (by Senator Ian Campbell)—by But that was not then reflected in the resolu- leave—proposed: tion. That consideration of the business before the It was always the understanding of the Senate be interrupted: parties that they would be given an indication (a) on Tuesday, 10 August 1999, at approxi- that they would get 20 or so minutes, but if mately 5.45 pm, but not so as to interrupt a they needed a few minutes more they would, senator speaking, to enable Senators McLucas and Ludwig to make their first for probably the only time in their careers, be speeches without any question before the extended the courtesy of being allowed to chair; and finish. I remember one Senator—I think it (b) on Wednesday, 11 August 1999, at approxi- was Senator Trish Crossin—was stopped mately 12 noon, but not so as to interrupt a before she had finished. I think that was not senator speaking, to enable Senators Tchen the intention of anybody. I think Senator 7028 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

Faulkner’s point is well made, that we ought times. I just raise that with the Manager of to allow a little more flexibility if they go a Government Business and ask him to be bit longer. mindful of this. Senator IAN CAMPBELL (Western I suspect that we can in an informal way Australia—Parliamentary Secretary to the work something out between the parties in Minister for Communications, Information relation to this, but I think that—given that Technology and the Arts) (5.38 p.m.)—by we have seven new senators, all of whom will leave—What I might do is amend the time for be giving first speeches—now is the time for the commencement of the first speeches to be us to get some consistency into how we apply made by Senators McLucas and Ludwig back this issue of the time limit. I think it is diffi- to 5.40 p.m. That would allow a maximum of cult to sit down a new senator who requires 25 minutes for each of them, so they will not a minute or two to conclude their first speech. run into the dinner adjournment. I am sure if I, for one, would want on this occasion, in we do hit the dinner adjournment and Senator these circumstances, to err on the side of Ludwig is still in full flight we could prob- flexibility. Where we might not always be as ably be a bit flexible. I know that has been generous in the chamber, I think in these the pattern, but we do not want to let them circumstances we ought to be. get into bad habits too soon—as long as they recognise it is a very special deal for very Senator HARRIS (Queensland) (5.42 special people in their first week. p.m.)—by leave—I would like to endorse I seek leave to amend my motion. both of the speakers’ calls for some leniency. Leave granted. Bearing in mind that there are tight time frames in the chamber, it would be greatly Senator IAN CAMPBELL—I move: appreciated. I, being the only new senator in Paragraph (a), omit "5.45 p.m.", substitute "5.40 the chamber at the moment, feel it would be p.m.". remiss of me not to speak to this motion and Senator FAULKNER (New South Wales— endorse these sentiments. I appreciate the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate) (5.39 opportunity to do this and ask that consider- p.m.)—by leave—On a similar and associated ation be given to extending the time. matter which relates to the Manager of The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT Government Business’s proposition—the (Senator McKiernan)—The question is that opposition, let me make clear, supports the the motion moved by Senator Campbell, as motion before the chair: is it possible that we amended, be agreed to. run a risk in regard to first speeches on Wednesday that if a senator is speaking at a Question resolved in the affirmative. few minutes to 12.00 and uses the time either for an extensive committee stage contribution COMMITTEES or perhaps a second reading speech, there is a potential to run into a problem at 12.45? I am not raising this point to bowl up a googly. Legal and Constitutional Affairs I just want to make sure that we allow a little Legislation Committee flexibility in the delivery of first speeches. Meeting I think Senator Evans’s point was well made because there has been a little inconsis- Motion (by Senator Payne)—by leave— tency here. Sometimes we have applied a agreed to: little flexibility; sometimes we have not. I do not think it is really fair to whoever is presid- That the Legal and Constitutional Legislation Committee be authorised to hold a public hearing ing. If the clock is set at 20 minutes, the during the sitting of the Senate on Tuesday, 10 President, the Deputy President or the Acting August 1999 from 6 p.m. to take evidence for the Deputy President is really obligated to ensure committee’s inquiry into the Norfolk Island that senators are limited in their speaking Amendment Bill 1999. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7029

NOTICES FISHING: IMPORTS OF CANADIAN UNCOOKED SALMON Presentation Senator O’Brien, at the request of Senator Motion (by Senator Carr)—as amended, Murphy to move, on the next day of sitting: by leave—agreed to: That the time for the presentation of the report That the Senate— of the Economics References Committee on (a) recognises the economic and social value of whether a new reactor should be built to replace the freshwater recreational fishing in Australia; High Flux Australian Reactor at Lucas Heights on (b) expresses support for Australia’s growing that site or on some other site in Australia be aquaculture industry when done in an extended to 1 September 1999. environmentally sustainable manner; Postponements (c) notes that a decision on the importation of Items of business were postponed as fol- uncooked salmon meat into Australia is lows: imminent; Business of the Senate notice of motion no. 1 (d) considers that any decision on the importa- standing in the name of the Chair of the Employ- tion of uncooked salmon meat should only ment, Workplace Relations, Small Business and be taken after exhaustive scientific evalu- Education References Committee (Senator ation and community consultation on the Collins) for today, relating to the reference of possible impact of the introduction of exotic matters to the committee, postponed till the next diseases on native fish and on Australia’s day of sitting. recreational fishing and aquaculture indus- tries; BUSINESS (e) views, with concern, the possibility of the introduction of exotic diseases into Australia Days and Hours of Meeting and Routine by the importation of uncooked salmon of Business meat; and Senator IAN CAMPBELL (Western (f) calls on the Australian Quarantine Inspec- Australia—Manager of Government Business tion Service to use all possible measures to in the Senate) (5.44 p.m.)—I seek leave to protect Australia’s recreational fishing move a motion to provide for an open-ended industry, aquaculture industries and native fish species from the importation of exotic adjournment debate this evening. diseases. Leave granted. DOCUMENTS Senator IAN CAMPBELL—I move: That the time limit of 40 minutes for the ad- Business of the Senate journment debate not apply today and that the Senate adjourn at the conclusion of the debate. Questions on Notice Question resolved in the affirmative. The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT—I table Business of the Senate for the period 1 BUSINESS January to 30 June 1999, and a summary of Days and Hours of Meeting and Routine questions on notice for the period 10 Novem- of Business ber 1998 to 30 June 1999. Motion (by Senator Ian Campbell) agreed Tabling to: The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT— That on Tuesday, 10 August 1999: Pursuant to standing order 166, I present (a) the hours of meeting shall be 2 pm to 6.30 documents listed in the attachment to today’s pm, and 7.30 pm to 12.40 am, Wednesday, Order of Business, which were certified by 11 August 1999; the President or presented since the Senate (b) the routine of business from 7.30 pm to last met. In accordance with the terms of the midnight shall be government business only; and standing order, the publication of the docu- ments was authorised. (c) the question for the adjournment of the Senate shall be proposed at midnight. The list read as follows— 7030 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

Travelling allowance payments to senators and tion of the government’s aged care reforms. members made by the Department of the Senate, It is highly critical of the government’s July to December 1998 (certified by the Presi- implementation and administration of the dent on 6 August 1999) reforms. The Treasury—Tax Expenditures Statement 1997-98 (presented to the Temporary Chair of It notes that had the original implementation Committees (Senator Calvert) on 9 July 1999) date of 1 July 1997 remained government Parliamentarians’ Travel Paid by the Department policy implementation would not have been of Finance and Administration, July to December adequately progressed to meet the standard 1998 (presented to the President on 6 August required by government. It found project 1999) planning and management was inadequate, Auditor-General Audit Report no. 1 of 1999- senior management were unable to properly 2000—Performance Audit—Implementing monitor the implementation of the reforms, purchaser/provider arrangements between the implementation was exposed to risks—some Department of Health and Aged Care and Centrelink (presented to the President on 13 July of which eventuated but could have been 1999) avoided with proper planning—and a lack of Auditor-General Audit Report no. 2 of 1999- accountability in the record of briefings and 2000—Financial Control and Administration decisions made by the minister. Audit—Use of financial information in manage- This report follows on the heels of the ment reports (presented to the Deputy President on 15 July 1999) Productivity Commission’s report into coales- cence of nursing home subsidies that high- Auditor-General Audit Report no. 3 of 1999- 2000—Performance Audit—Electronic travel lighted the inadequacies and inequities of a authority: Department of Immigration and key plank of the government’s reforms. Not Multicultural Affairs (presented to the Deputy only were the reforms bad policy but they President on 22 July 1999) have been badly, ineffectively implemented. Auditor-General Audit Report no. 4 of 1999- The Audit Office’s report is further evidence 2000—Performance Audit—Fraud control that the government’s rush to reform aged arrangements in Employment, Education, Train- care and dissemble in response to the political ing and Youth Affairs (presented to the Deputy pressure that was applied during that time has President on 22 July 1999) resulted in bad policy. Auditor-General’s Reports We have seen in this area budget targets Report No. 5 of 1999-2000 failed to be reached and significant increases The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT—In in complexity within the system as the accordance with the provisions of the Auditor- government layers more and more accounta- General Act 1997, I present the Auditor- bility processes into the system to try to patch General’s report No. 5 of 1999-2000 Perform- up the errors in the original framework. By ance audit—IP Australia: productivity and the government’s own target its reforms have client service. failed. Each of the key elements in the government’s aged care reforms have failed Report No. 1 of 1999-2000 to meet the targets that the government set for Senator CHRIS EVANS (Western Austral- them or, as in the case of accreditation pro- ia) (5.50 p.m.)—I move: cesses, still remain to be implemented some That the Senate take note of the document. two years after the reforms were to be intro- The Auditor-General audit report No. 1 of duced. 1999-2000 entitled Performance audit— The first area is the income tested fee. In implementing purchaser/provider arrange- the 1996-97 budget, the government predicted ments between the arrangements between the that the income tested fee would raise $160 Department of Health and Aged Care and million over the two years from 1998-99 to Centrelink is very important because it proves 1999-2000. We now find that the fee raised once again that the government’s aged care only $31 million over those two years, a reforms have failed. It is a damning report shortfall of $129 million. This is one of the from an independent body on the implementa- government’s key planks in its aged care Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7031 reforms: introducing user pays and allowing commitment to those residents in nursing us, to use its rhetoric, ‘to deal with the ageing homes before 1 October 1997 who have been of the population’. Not only did the fee fail forced to pay the accommodation charges to reach the government’s revenue target but despite the promise of the Prime Minister. it has also proved to be complex and time Only after Labor campaigned on this issue did consuming to administer. Senators should the government show any interest in deliver- look at page 31 of the report which sets out ing on its commitment, and that is after a flow diagram of how the fee is adminis- residents have been paying the charge for 18 tered. If you can make any sense of it, you months. are far better than me. It is a complete she- The third plank in the government’s reforms mozzle. was the resident classification scale. The new Residents and providers are complaining single classification scale for determining the that, where someone’s income varies constant- level of subsidy paid to providers has run into ly—as in the case of people receiving over- serious trouble. The department is publishing seas pensions—the provider has to constantly constant updates on its web page outlining vary the amount charged and constantly alter changes to how the scale should be applied. the amount refunded to the Commonwealth. This has served only to add to the amount of It is a nightmare for providers and a real material that staff have to be across in dealing confusion and worry for many older Austral- with and classifying residents. Because of ians impacted on by this process. This hap- these constant changes to the RCS, a recent pens even when the person’s income changes national validation of 2,500 residents found by only a dollar a fortnight. It is a ludicrous that half were over-classified according to and worrying complexity. records reviewed. I turn to the second element of the reforms: With the threat of having residents validated the treatment of concessional residents. For and funding reduced on the basis of residents’ each concessional resident, the Common- records, providers are now complaining that wealth pays the provider a concessional staff are spending more and more time ensur- resident supplement worth $4,500 a year in ing that the residents’ records are letter- place of a bond or charge. The government perfect and less time actually caring for the predicted that 27 per cent of residents would residents. The quality of care is being directly be classified as concessional residents. We affected by the complexities and bureaucracy now find that almost 50 per cent of residents being layered into the system. The govern- have been classified as concessional, doubling ment is so confident in its own system that, the cost of the concessional resident supple- in the 1999-2000 budget, it has allowed for ment to $142 million in 1999-2000, rising to over $93 million of mistakes being made in $181 million in 2001-02. The government’s classifying residents. At the same time, it has projections for the system are wildly inaccu- increased the number of checks that it is rate and the Commonwealth’s commitment to carrying out on residents under its own funding the system in this area is almost system. double that predicted. I turn briefly to the other plank: the accredi- The government has now indicated that it tation of aged care facilities. On 4 December will begin a process of validating the 1998, the Senate passed legislation to allow concessional status of residents, that is, to try for the setting of a schedule of fees for the to put something in place to fix up the mess accreditation of facilities. At the time, the made in the original aged care reforms. This government insisted that the legislation was will be another process put into the system urgent as the accreditation process needed to which will add complexity and be a further begin as soon as possible. That was on 4 confusion to both providers and residents. At December 1998, but we have still not seen the the same time, the government is creating a principles. The minister has still not been able separate category of charge-exempt residents to drag herself up to gazette those principles. and more complexities to finally deliver on its The 3,000 residential aged care facilities are 7032 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 facing a January 2001 deadline, by which I want to make some comments on the in- time they must be accredited. For the provid- depth report by the Auditor-General on fraud ers, every month is critical and they have control in the then Department of Employ- been justifiably frustrated by the minister’s ment, Education, Training and Youth Affairs. inability to get the accreditation system under I also want to comment more generally on the way—no-one has yet been accredited. I important role that the Auditor-General plays understand that the minister is, rather belated- in public administration in Australia. The ly, meeting today with the sector on this report No. 4 of 1999-2000 found that, while matter, nine months after the relevant legisla- the department had generally established a tion was passed and with less than 18 months framework to prevent and manage fraud, there remaining to accredit 3,000 facilities. had been no quality assurance component The minister’s failure to get accreditation incorporated in that framework. The Auditor- going is compounded by her failure to deal General also found that, in a number of with facilities that fail to meet required investigations, the systematic approach set out standards. Her failure to shut down those by the department had not been followed. He facilities was recently widely reported in the found that there was a risk to achieving press. The minister quickly attempted to successful outcomes from delays in taking blame Labor for her own inability to act on action. this critical issue under provisions in the As a result, the effectiveness of these government’s own Aged Care Act. We must investigations could have been improved if remember that the government got its aged they had been dealt with more promptly. Mr care reforms through the parliament. Providers Barrett also found the department’s fraud risk have refuted her claims about being unable to assessment methodology was sound. However, act, with Aged Care Australia saying: the Auditor-General found that fraud control It is therefore very disappointing to see the Minister performance indicators in division and branch for Aged Care highlighting the concerns of a small plans did not provide the range of indicators number of facilities as a political lever to get the Senate to pass new legislation, when she already necessary for balanced performance assess- has the power to act decisively now and is failing ment in relation to price, quantity and quality. to do so. I must say that it is notable that the depart- The minister—and the industry recognises ment agreed with all of the findings and this—has the power to ensure that proper recommendations of the report. This report is standards are maintained in nursing homes a good example of how the Auditor-General and hostel facilities caring for the aged in this and his office are able to provide an inde- country. She has the power, but—like in so pendent review of the performance and many other areas—she has been unable or accountability of government agencies and unwilling to act. This audit report, as I have entities. said, is a timely critique and reminder that the The Australian National Audit Office has government’s aged care reforms—amended the highly developed skills to enable it to under political pressure in 1996-97—are undertake timely and cost-effective perform- failing to meet the standards set for them by ance audits consistent with public sector the government. They are failing aged persons values. It presents a vital link between these in Australia. The system is a shambles, the public entities and the parliament and, there- reforms are a failure and the government must fore, the Australian community. I must say act to start cleaning up the mess that it has that the circumstances surrounding the ap- created. pointment of Mr Laurie Foley to the position Question resolved in the affirmative. of Assistant Director of the Civil Aviation Report No. 4 of 1999-2000 Safety Authority is another example that lends itself to a proper and open investigation by Senator O’BRIEN (Tasmania) (5.59 the Auditor-General. The skills that Mr p.m.)—by leave—I move: Barrett would bring to such an investigation That the Senate take note of the document. are essential in this matter. It is essential that Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7033 they be used to ensure that the matter is CONSTITUTION ALTERATION properly dealt with. (ESTABLISHMENT OF The current plan for the Civil Aviation REPUBLIC) 1999 Safety Authority board to have a Mr Stephen PRESIDENTIAL NOMINATIONS Skehill undertake an investigation of the COMMITTEE BILL 1999 Foley recruitment process and its role in that process is obviously unsatisfactory. The Report of Republic Referendum investigation into this matter must be inde- Committee pendent. While Mr Skehill is a very skilled Senator PAYNE (New South Wales) (6.05 and experienced lawyer, the Auditor-General p.m.)—On behalf of the Joint Select Commit- has a wide range of skills and much experi- tee on the Republic Referendum, I present the ence in such investigations. Any inquiry into committee’s advisory report on the Constitu- the Foley appointment must also be open and tion Alteration (Establishment of Republic) the resulting report tabled in the parliament. 1999 and the Presidential Nominations Com- In relation to the Skehill investigation, we mittee Bill 1999, together with submissions, have not been given an assurance by the Hansard record and minutes of proceedings. minister, Mr Anderson, that the Skehill report I seek leave to move a motion in relation to will be tabled. All we know is that he has the report. asked for a copy of the Skehill findings once Leave granted. the investigation has been completed. We Senator PAYNE—I move: have no assurance that the report will be That the Senate take note of the report. released to the public, as it should be. In contrast, the Auditor-General is required to The process of which this report is the result table his findings and make recommendations began substantially with the Constitutional to which the agency and the government must Convention held in February last year, a very respond. special event in Australian history, not only in terms of our democratic structures but also Finally, the circumstances surrounding the in terms of the ongoing debate about our head appointment of Mr Foley to this senior posi- of state. It and this report were both important tion in CASA are of serious concern to the steps in engaging the Australian community opposition and many people in the organisa- in an understanding of and debate on their tion itself as well as to the wider aviation Constitution and important steps in the pro- industry. It is in the interests of aviation, in cess of consultation and community engage- the interests of the Civil Aviation Safety ment. Authority and, I would have thought, in the At the outset, I would like to thank all of interests of the minister, Mr Anderson, to the committee staff, especially the committee have a proper and open inquiry into all the secretary, Claressa Surtees, for their work circumstances surrounding this appointment. over the past month or so. Arranging a com- Only then can we get on with the job of mittee of 18 members for such a process building a safer and more efficient aviation cannot have been an easy task. Between sector. coordinating diaries, desires and preferences, Question resolved in the affirmative. the staff have done an excellent job. I would also place on record my thanks to the chair- Report No. 6 of 1999-2000 man of the committee, Mr Bob Charles MP, The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT and my other Senate and House of Represen- (Senator Bartlett)—In accordance with the tatives colleagues who participated in the provisions of the Auditor-General Act 1997, committee. I present the following report of the Auditor- We received 122 written submissions from General: Report No. 6 of 1999-2000—Audit a range of interested individuals and organisa- Activity Report January-June 1999: Summary tions and conducted hearings all over the of outcomes. country—in Adelaide, Brisbane, Broome, 7034 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

Canberra, Darwin, Hobart, Melbourne, New- backgrounds have contributed enormously to castle, Perth, Sydney and Townsville. It was the development of our nation. It is my hope the view of many committee members that it as a republican that all Australians, from a was imperative to visit both regional and variety of backgrounds, will continue to metropolitan locations to ensure that all who enhance this development. It is fundamentally wanted an opportunity to address the commit- important for the President of this nation to be tee had that chance, and particularly to give truly representative of the diversity of our those outside metropolitan Australia an people. An appropriate way to ensure this is opportunity to express their views with regard to ensure a nominations committee which is to the bills. reflective of this diversity. A range of witnesses gave evidence to the These recommendations reflect a genuine committee, from constitutional lawyers—more concern by committee members to ensure that and more of those—and academics, both the referendum most accurately reflects the monarchist and republican, to those with less outcome of the Constitutional Convention. I expert, but no less enthusiastic, involvement believe it is important that this be maintained. and interest in the issues. The committee has The public was so actively involved in the made a number of recommendations that Constitutional Convention that it would repre- include changes to the long title of the bill; sent a breach of faith to not represent the membership of the Presidential Nominations outcome of that body as far as possible. Committee; the process of nomination; the I commented earlier that this report repre- qualifications, powers, dismissal and term of sents a culmination in a process of community office of the President; and the education engagement—and, of course, it is not the last campaign to be conducted prior to the referen- word on constitutional change. Another dum. I wish to briefly address two of those. process of engagement must now commence; Firstly, I refer to the issue of the long title that is, engaging the community in a debate of the bill. It is my view that the long title of about the merits of the proposed reforms and the bill as recommended by the committee the benefits which might be offered through does represent a more accurate wording becoming a republic. without making the question unwieldy or It is no secret that I will be seeking to vote misleading. It was important for us to keep in yes on 6 November. I note that the chairman mind that the aim is for the question put to of the committee, after this long and arduous the people to be as informative as possible process, has also put on the record this after- without being overly complex. However, I noon in another place a similar commitment. note that this afternoon the Prime Minister This process of engagement is one that must announced a new wording. I am sure that that continue until 6 November. I hope that this proposal will receive the considered attention report, in its own way, might mark the com- of all participants in the debate. Hopefully it mencement of a new round of invigorated and will address many of the concerns that have enthusiastic debate on the issue which will been raised in recent days by enthusiasts of lead to a positive outcome for the referendum change and opponents of change alike and in November. produce some of the balance much sought Senator BOLKUS (South Australia) (6.10 after by many of those people. p.m.)—I also rise to speak on the report of Secondly, I refer to the membership of the the Joint Select Committee on the Republic nominations committee. The committee has Referendum. I also start by commending the recommended that the Prime Minister, in committee secretariat for the amount of work appointing the nominations committee, have they have been able to put together and regard to, as far as practicable, the diversity analyse in a very short period of time. The of the Australian people. The diversity of the report is a very useful one, coming at a quite Australian populace is one of the fundamental critical time in the move towards Australia building blocks of our community. Australians becoming a republic. This report is a good of different ethnicities, genders, ages and reflection not only on the capacity of those in Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7035 the secretariat who were party to it but also, was the need not only for a new question but I must say, on all members and senators who also for a degree of fairness to be imparted were party to this process. So I place on the into this process. record my thanks to the chair and all mem- It is undisputed that an ever growing ma- bers of the committee for the way they contri- jority of Australians want Australia to become buted to this particular report. I also thank the a republic. The driving force for this parlia- 122 or so people who made original submis- ment should not be political trickery; it should sions as well as those appearing in person be to give expression to the will of that before the committee. increasing majority. I say ‘increasing’ because There were some 14 recommendations from the polls this morning indicate that some 63 the committee. It is fair to say that, with to 64 per cent of those who have a position respect to the majority of those recommenda- on whether Australia should become a repub- tions, if not all of them, the overwhelming lic support the model put up by the joint majority of members and senators came to the parliamentary committee. That is an all-time same conclusion. Our task, in essence, was to high. It is a high which still prevails, despite look at and assess the model which came the attacks of Mr Reith in trying to undermine through last year’s Constitutional Convention the move towards a republic and despite the to see how it was reflected in—and what game the Prime Minister is playing in this changes were needed to—the government’s particular area. Faced with the issue, the legislation to ensure that the spirit and the committee analysed alternatives extremely letter of the Constitutional Convention model extensively and came up with the question were reflected in that legislation. which, as I say, the Australian public has In a sense, this committee has achieved endorsed in the polls taken since that proposal much; it has achieved a refinement of the was floated in the media and in the public model. Thirteen of the amendments go to generally. issues that relate to the actual operation of the Australians want a fair question, and that is model proposed by the Constitutional Con- what the committee has come up with. It is vention. The 14th recommendation goes to the fair, and it is fairer than the question that is core issue facing the parliament and the now being proposed by the government. In Australian people—and that is the actual the last few hours or so, the government has referendum question to be put to the people. floated an alternative question to be put to the In that sense, the committee was faced by the Australian people at the referendum on 6 Prime Minister’s continuing campaign of November. The differences between that subterfuge. His personal proposal for what question and the question proposed by the should be the question to be put to the Aus- republic advisory committee are two, and they tralian people was found by the committee to are important. For some reason, the Australian not be a fair and accurate reflection of the government is not prepared to place the word considerations and deliberations of the Consti- ‘Australian’ before the word ‘president’ in the tutional Convention. In fact, the committee proposal put to the Australian people. This said: process is all about having an Australian The committee considers that the reference in the president at the end of the process. The fact draft long title to the two-thirds majority of the that the Australian government is not prepared members of parliament gives an incomplete picture to put the word ‘Australian’ before ‘president’ of the essential feature of the nomination process which involves public consultation and a process in the proposal going to the public reflects for bipartisan nomination by both the Prime very badly on the government and is also a Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. further reflection of the trickery that the Prime Essentially, we found that the government’s Minister is prepared to indulge in in order to proposed question was one that did not fairly sabotage the republic push. reflect the essence of the new system pro- The other aspect that the government is posed to the people through the referendum insisting on putting in the referendum ques- mechanism. The committee felt also that there tion is the reference to a president ‘appointed 7036 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 by a two-thirds majority of the members of a republic. He is doing it, and he knows full the Commonwealth parliament’. This is well that his colleague Mr Reith is also doing precisely the wording that the joint parlia- it. We have had enough of Peter Reith’s mentary committee found to be biased. This indulgence in this debate. We know that he is is precisely the wording which the committee no more than a monarchist in drag. We have in major part found reflected the unpopular seen his comments in the past; we have seen aspect of the process while not fully reflecting his more recent comments. We know that, the whole process. For that reason, the oppo- when it comes to constitutional reform and sition thinks what we have today is another the Constitution, he pays no respect to the instance of the Prime Minister’s trickery. But processes and conventions. He would be the it comes as no surprise, because this is the sort of person who would take us back to the Prime Minister who—by his own admission— damaging practices of 1975. For him to come does not want Australia to become a republic out parading as a republican but proposing and who thinks talk of a republic is a waste that we keep the Queen is something that has of time. I drove from Melbourne to Canberra been too rich for the Australian public to cop. yesterday and, hour after hour for six or seven hours, I heard on the news grabs of the Prime This has been a useful process because in Minister saying, ‘Whenever I get together part it has driven the government to propose with Mark Taylor, we don’t talk about the a new question for the referendum. But, as I republic. I don’t waste time talking about the said earlier, this question is also laden with republic.’ It is not a waste of time to talk trickery and is incomplete. We believe there about the republic. In fact, it is a reflection on should be reference to an Australian president. the poor standard of commitment that this We also believe referring to a president Prime Minister brings to the job that he thinks ‘appointed by a two-thirds majority of the cricket is more important than the constitu- members of the Commonwealth parliament’ tional structures that he should be responsible is an unbalanced reflection of the process. In for and should be promoting throughout the closing my contribution on the tabling of this country. report, I once again thank the chair and so It is a bad example for this country and for many members of the government together the children of this country to have the Prime with my colleagues and Senator Natasha Stott Minister saying, ‘Look, let’s talk about Shane Despoja for the contribution they have made Warne as a spinner, but don’t get serious to ensuring that this process is fairer than it about what sort of structure we are living was at the start of the committee process. under.’ And that is precisely what he was saying. It is a bad reflection on him, it dimin- Senator STOTT DESPOJA (South Aus- ishes the position of prime minister and it is tralia—Deputy Leader of the Australian also a bad example for Australia to have our Democrats) (6.19 p.m.)—I will begin where Prime Minister say that discussion of the Senator Bolkus left off by commending the Constitution and of the republic is a waste of participation and contribution of all our time. This statement belies the fact that the colleagues on the Joint Select Committee on Prime Minister is a person who has taken the Republic Referendum. As Senator Payne every step along the way, through one act of pointed out, 18 members on a committee trickery or another, to ensure that this propo- could potentially be quite unwieldy. Those sal does not get up. He knows full well that who participated at varying stages throughout for the proposal to have the maximum chance the process did so often with a passionate of succeeding, both sides of parliament need interest in the debate, but we tried to be fairly to be behind it. He plays a tricky game, clear headed as we listened to the evidence saying on the one hand, ‘I don’t have a provided. We also commend the chairman and position,’ and on the other hand, ‘If it ain’t the secretariat as well as the many witnesses broke, don’t fix it.’ who appeared before the committee and those The Prime Minister knows full well that he people who provided written submissions to is subverting the road to Australia becoming the joint select committee. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7037

I rise to speak on the report, entitled Advis- the unanimous decision made by the commit- ory report on: Constitutional Alteration tee in relation to the nomination process. (Establishment of Republic) 1999 Presidential Nominations Committee Bill 1999, as the But the concerns of the Democrats, as Democrat spokesperson on republican issues outlined in my minority report, relate princi- and also as the sole member for the Demo- pally to the procedure for the dismissal of a crats on this large committee. By and large, President. While the Democrats do recognise this report ensures that the legislation to come the safeguards that are incorporated in this before this place and to go before the Austral- legislation by way of requiring a Prime ian people on 6 November will reflect the Minister who has dismissed a President to outcomes of the Constitutional Convention come before the House of Representatives to last year. Australians will have the opportuni- explain his or her actions within a 30-day ty to vote to become an Australian republic period, the Australian Democrats believe that with a head of state who is chosen from the protection afforded the President can and among us for the first time in this nation’s should be strengthened. The President of an history. For more than a year, many of us Australian republic will be a unique figure—a have read headlines and various polls that constitutional umpire and symbolic head of have predicted the demise of the referendum state. The importance of such an office cannot in November, predicated on assumptions of be underestimated or, we believe, undermined. apathy within the Australian community on The majority of the committee has acknow- this issue. As part of the joint select commit- ledged the risks of politically motivated or tee on this legislation, we heard many submis- peremptory dismissal but concluded that sions from Australians from all over—from public reaction to such dismissal combined regional and remote areas and from towns and with the requirement for House of Representa- urban centres—and the enthusiasm with which tives ratification would presumably dissuade many greeted this legislation and the coming such action. This may prove to be the case, referendum gave lie to any reports that the but the Democrats would prefer that those Australian people are simply not interested in protections be stipulated and of course readily the republic issue. enforceable. As one witness, Professor Leslie Many witnesses who appeared before the Zines, stated to the committee: committee were supportive of the legislation, After all, the head of state is supposed to be above although, I acknowledge, many improvements us all and representing the community and a person were suggested and many people expressed who is neutral and not a protagonist and all that their support of the move to a republic per se. sort of thing. If you know anyone who can be dismissed instantly, and it says so in clear lan- Like those witnesses, the Australian Demo- guage—unlike the cover of the Crown where it is crats support the move to a republic with an not so obvious—obviously it is going to affect, I Australian head of state and, like a number of think, the way the people see the person. witnesses before the committee, we do have some concerns with this legislation which we As constitutional umpire and symbolic head hope will be addressed. of state, the President of an Australian repub- lic requires and deserves proper security of I should acknowledge that the Democrats tenure. The Democrats proposal would ensure support—and I have put this in my dissenting that he or she would be afforded similar report—a majority of recommendations that protection to that extended to federal judges have come from the committee and, in par- under section 72(ii) of the Constitution. A ticular, I commend the committee on recom- President would be able to be removed only mending that, as per the Constitutional on stated grounds of proven incapacity or Convention’s communique, there is reference misbehaviour and the dismissal would need to given to or attention paid to ensuring diversity be ratified by a two-thirds majority of a joint is included in the nomination process, that is, sitting of federal parliament—that is, involv- ensuring a diversity of views are involved in ing the Senate as well as the House of Repre- the nomination process. I certainly commend sentatives. This proposal also addresses our 7038 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 deep concern about the exclusion of the crats did believe and do believe that the Senate from the dismissal procedure. wording suggested in this report best fulfils At the 1998 Constitutional Convention, at the goals of simplicity and accuracy. How- which I was a delegate on behalf of the ever, this afternoon I understand that the federal Australian Democrats, I moved a Prime Minister has come forward with a series of amendments to provide a role for the suggested form of words, and I will be dis- Senate in the dismissal process. This proposal cussing that issue with my colleagues. We was not a new one. The requirement that the will get together shortly to examine the new dismissal of a President be ratified by a two- form of words proposed by the Prime thirds majority of a joint sitting of federal Minister, and that will give us an opportunity parliament was recommended by the Republic to assess its worth. On the one hand, it is a Advisory Committee in 1994 and was actually recognition by the Prime Minister that the a feature of the original Keating and Austral- original wording needed to be changed. But ian Republican Movement models. we will assess the worth of his new proposal and comment. Our proposal echoed the evidence of a number of witnesses before the committee The second issue relates to the education including Professor Leslie Zines, Professor campaign to be undertaken by the government George Winterton, Sir Zelman Cowan, Harry in the lead-up to the vote and to be conducted Evans, Dr John Hirst, Ms Anne Winckel, Ms by the yes and the no committees. Evidence Linda Kirk, Dr John Uhr, George Williams was received from witnesses around the and Professor Cheryl Saunders. In making nation on the complexity of the issues to be these recommendations, the Democrats are voted on and the difficulties, in particular, very much aware of the divergence from the faced by regional or rural communities in original Constitutional Convention communi- accessing information about the campaign. que or model but, as Dr John Hirst said in his The challenge facing the government and the evidence to the committee: two committees is to ensure that all Austral- ians are given access to the relevant informa- . . . I would guess there would not be 10 members tion on these issues well prior to referendum of that convention that would support this dismissal procedure now. day so that they will have an informed vote. The Democrats hope that the concerns of My personal commitment to Australia these legal and constitutional experts are becoming a republic is well known. As a taken into account when the legislation comes committed republican and member of the yes before this place for debate and of course committee, I look forward to 6 November and amendment. Our proposal is to ensure that the what I hope will be a vote by Australians for head of state under this legislation receives a system of government which will launch our the same protection from politically motivated second centenary of Federation as a truly or peremptory dismissal as that given to independent and mature nation. I also look federal judges. We appeal to both the govern- forward to a second Constitutional Conven- ment and the opposition to consider such tion to consider broader issues of constitution- amendments when the legislation comes al reform, something that the Australian before us. Democrats have long expressed a commitment to. I would like to refer to two other matters. The first is an issue which has received Sitting suspended from 6.30 p.m. to considerable attention—that is, the long title 7.30 p.m. of the bill, which will form the question on Senator BOSWELL (Queensland—Leader the ballot paper. In considering the evidence of the National Party of Australia in the before the committee on this issue, the Demo- Senate and Parliamentary Secretary to the crats were keen to ensure that the long title Minister for Transport and Regional Services) most accurately reflected the constitutional (7.30 p.m.)—Before dinner we were debating change to be effected by the referendum, and the report of the Joint Select Committee on even confirmed as of this morning the Demo- the Republic Referendum. As a member of Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7039 that committee, I was very much surprised to disguise it. It is a fact of life. That is what one night to turn the television on and hear the Constitutional Convention came up with that there was a unanimous report that the when there were three warring factions of the question be changed. I had spoken to the republican sector. There were the committee that day and advised them that I McGarvieists, the Turnbullists and then there sought the right to put in a minority report. In were those for a publicly elected President. fact, the Joint Select Committee on the Re- The question that was proposed by the three public Referendum produced five reports on sectors and supported by the Constitutional the republic—the majority report and four Convention was very clear: if you want a dissenting reports, including my own. Any republic you accept that two-thirds of the impartial observer would have to consider that parliament will elect the President. the abundance of dissent on the proposed Tonight I heard Senator Bolkus describing constitutional change does not augur well for the Prime Minister as unfair. I cannot think of the success of the referendum on 6 Novem- anything fairer than what the Prime Minister ber. has done. He has accepted the question and I was given five minutes to speak. I think amalgamated the question to cover the propo- I can extend that a bit, but I have to confine nents of the republic and the proponents my remarks. I emphasise that the committee against a republic. It is no good going out was in no way united in proposing a different there and saying that the Prime Minister is referendum question on the republic. Two of unreasonable. The Prime Minister has a the dissenting reports representing three position, as does Senator Bolkus, as do I. committee members opposed the majority’s Those propositions have been recognised in recommendation on the question to be put to the question, but do not attack the Prime the people. In some ways the Senate debating Minister or anyone else who does not support this referendum question at the moment will a change to a republic, because the question be bypassed by a decision by the cabinet and is honest, it is frank and it is accurate. by the National and Liberal party rooms who As Leader of the National Party of Australia have taken into consideration the views of the in the Senate, I support the existing question. republicans and the views of other people I support the government’s position to alter such as the McGarvieists and all those people the question to pick up both sides of the who are cobbled together to form the republi- debate. I think it is a defining characteristic can movement. of the constitutional change being proposed. The Prime Minister has brought forward a It goes to the heart of what the delegates at question to ask the Australian people. The the Constitutional Convention decided to put question is that the people of Australia are to the Australian people. It describes what going to vote on an act to alter the Constitu- kind of a republic Australians are going to tion to establish the Commonwealth of Aus- get. Not to have in the question the fact that tralia as a republic with the Queen and the the President will be appointed by a two- Governor-General being replaced by a Presi- thirds majority of the members of the dent appointed by a two-thirds majority of the Commonwealth parliament is not telling the members of the Commonwealth parliament. people the accurate way that a President will I see that as being absolutely fair. The Prime be elected. I think it would be plainly dishon- Minister has decided to listen to the other side est not to include that in the question. (Exten- of the debate and put to the people a question sion of time granted) that they believe is fairer and describes the As I say in my report, describing the repub- vote in a certain way. lic model as one which replaces the Queen It is no good telling the people an untruth. and the Governor-General with a President is If people vote for a republic they are going to like describing your car as having four get a republic with a head of state that two- wheels. We all know a car has four wheels thirds of parliamentarians will elect. It is no and we all know that a republic does not have good trying to hide that. It is no good trying a Queen and it does not have a Governor- 7040 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

General. If you do not include that part of the Finance and Public Administration References question, it tells you very little about the Committee— republic. Appointed: Senator Hutchins The committee’s majority recommendation Discharged: Senator Conroy of the wording of the referendum tells you Participating member: Senator Conroy very little about the nature of the republic. Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade—Joint Many Australians hold strong views about Standing Committee— methods of selecting a President, and they Appointed: Senator Gibbs have the democratic right to know exactly Legal and Constitutional Legislation Commit- what they are voting for or what they are tee— voting against. As legislators, it is our duty to Appointed: Senator Greig ensure that the question faithfully represents Discharged: Senator Stott Despoja the nature of the proposed constitutional Participating member: Senator Stott Despoja changes. Legal and Constitutional References Commit- I would like briefly to mention one other tee— aspect—that is, membership of the Common- Appointed: Senators Greig and Ludwig wealth of Nations. Australia would not auto- Discharged: Senators Hutchins and Stott matically continue as a member of the Despoja Commonwealth, and any other Common- Participating member: Senator Stott Despoja wealth country could veto our readmission. Native Title and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Senator Forshaw—Garbage! What a red Islander Land Fund—Joint Statutory Commit- herring! Why don’t you tell the truth? tee— Appointed: Senator McLucas Senator BOSWELL—I am going to tell Publications—Standing Committee— the truth. As a matter of fact, I am going to Appointed: Senators McLucas and Ludwig seek leave to table the document. The Secre- Discharged: Senators Sherry and Crossin tary-General must gain the concurrence of Regulations and Ordinances—Standing Commit- every Commonwealth country to readmit tee— Australia. While this may be a formality, it is Appointed: Senators McLucas and Ludwig not automatic, a point which is not picked up Discharged: Senators Gibbs and Hutchins in the majority report. I seek leave to table Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport Legis- correspondence between Professor David Flint lation Committee— from Australia for a Constitutional Monarchy Appointed: Senator Ferris and the Secretary-General of the Common- Discharged: Senator Calvert wealth of Nations on this matter. Participating members: Senators Calvert and Leave granted. Hutchins Senator BOSWELL—I thank the Senate Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport Refer- for its indulgence. ences Committee— Appointed: Senator Ferris Question resolved in the affirmative. Discharged: Senator Calvert COMMITTEES Participating members: Senators Calvert and Hutchins Membership Senators’ Interests—Standing Committee— The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT Appointed: Senator McLucas (Senator McKiernan)—The President has Discharged: Senator Hutchins received letters from party leaders seeking Treaties—Joint Standing Committee— variations in membership of committees. Appointed: Senator Ludwig. Motion (by Senator Troeth)—by leave— agreed to: ASSENT TO LAWS That senators be discharged from and appointed Messages from His Excellency the Gover- to committees as follows: nor-General were reported, informing the Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7041

Senate that he had assented to the following A New Tax System (Trade Practices Amend- laws: ment) Bill 1998 Appropriation Bill (No. 1) 1999-2000 A New Tax System (Family Assistance) Bill Appropriation Bill (No. 2) 1999-2000 1999 Appropriation (Parliamentary Departments) Bill A New Tax System (Family Assistance) (Admin- 1999-2000 istration) Bill 1999 NRS Levy Imposition Amendment Bill 1998 A New Tax System (Family Assistance) (Conse- quential and Related Measures) Bill (No. 1) 1999 Telecommunications (Consumer Protection and A New Tax System (Family Assistance) (Conse- Service Standards) Bill 1998 quential and Related Measures) Bill (No. 2) 1999 Telecommunications (Universal Service Levy) A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax Amendment Bill 1998 Imposition—Customs) Bill 1998 Telecommunications Legislation Amendment Bill A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax 1998 Imposition—Excise) Bill 1998 Telstra (Further Dilution of Public Ownership) A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax Bill 1999 Imposition—General) Bill 1998 Taxation Laws Amendment Bill (No. 6) 1999 A New Tax System (Luxury Car Tax) Bill 1999 A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax) A New Tax System (Luxury Car Tax Imposi- Bill 1998 tion—Customs) Bill 1999 A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax A New Tax System (Luxury Car Tax Imposi- Administration) Bill 1998 tion—Excise) Bill 1999 A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax A New Tax System (Luxury Car Tax Imposi- Transition) Bill 1998 tion—General) Bill 1999 A New Tax System (Australian Business Num- A New Tax System (Wine Equalisation Tax) Bill ber) Bill 1998 1999 A New Tax System (Australian Business Number A New Tax System (Wine Equalisation Tax and Consequential Amendments) Bill 1998 Luxury Car Tax Transition) Bill 1999 A New Tax System (End of Sales Tax) Bill 1998 A New Tax System (Wine Equalisation Tax A New Tax System (Bonuses for Older Austral- Imposition—Customs) Bill 1999 ians) Bill 1998 A New Tax System (Wine Equalisation Tax A New Tax System (Compensation Measures Imposition—Excise) Bill 1999 Legislation Amendment) Bill 1998 A New Tax System (Wine Equalisation Tax Imposition—General) Bill 1999 A New Tax System (Personal Income Tax Cuts) Bill 1998 Customs and Excise Amendment (Diesel Fuel Rebate Scheme) Bill 1999 A New Tax System (Closely Held Trusts) Bill Diesel and Alternative Fuels Grants Scheme Bill 1999 1999 A New Tax System (Ultimate Beneficiary Non- Migration Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 1) disclosure Tax) Bill (No. 1) 1999 1999 A New Tax System (Ultimate Beneficiary Non- Broadcasting Services Amendment (Online disclosure Tax) Bill (No. 2) 1999 Services) Bill 1999 A New Tax System (Aged Care Compensation Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conser- Measures Legislation Amendment) Bill 1998 vation Bill 1999 A New Tax System (Indirect Tax Administra- Environmental Reform (Consequential Provi- tion) Bill 1999 sions) Bill 1999 A New Tax System (Income Tax Laws Amend- Protection of Movable Cultural Heritage Amend- ment) Bill 1998 ment Bill 1999 7042 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

Taxation Laws Amendment (CPI Indexation) Bill 1999 and the Law and Justice Legislation 1999 Amendment Bill 1999 and move: Taxation Laws Amendment (Demutualisation of That these bills be now read a second time. Non-insurance Mutual Entities) Bill 1999 I seek leave to have the second reading Taxation Laws Amendment Bill (No. 2) 1998 speeches incorporated in Hansard. Taxation Laws Amendment Bill (No. 4) 1999 Leave granted. Health Insurance Amendment (Professional The speeches read as follows— Services Review) Bill 1999 STATUTE STOCKTAKE BILL 1999 Superannuation Legislation Amendment Bill (No. This bill continues the "statute stocktake" foreshad- 2) 1999 owed in the Government’s Law and Justice Policy and begun with the Statute Law Revision Act 1996. Aviation Fuel Revenues (Special Appropriation) The Government recognises that the Parliament, as Amendment Bill 1999 the primary law-maker, must bear a direct responsi- Customs Tariff Amendment (Aviation Fuel bility for maintenance and repair of Commonwealth Revenues) Bill 1999 statute law. Excise Tariff Amendment (Aviation Fuel Rev- The past 25 years have seen a dramatic increase in the volume, complexity and reach of Common- enues) Bill 1999 wealth law. Legislation impacts much more directly Export Market Development Grants Legislation and significantly on all aspects of daily life. Amendment Bill 1999 Whether it is family law, social security assistance, business regulation, environmental laws or taxation, STATUTE STOCKTAKE BILL 1999 laws passed by the federal parliament affect the community at a business, social and personal level. LAW AND JUSTICE LEGISLATION Indeed, today the expectation is that when a new AMENDMENT BILL 1999 issue arises within a Commonwealth head of power the Parliament will step in to pass legislation to AUSTRALIAN SPORTS COMMISSION cover the field and reduce uncertainty. AMENDMENT BILL 1999 Not surprisingly, there are now over 1300 First Reading Commonwealth acts on the statute book. Parliament cannot simply pass more and more legislation Bills received from the House of Represen- without re-examining our existing laws on a regular tatives. and ongoing basis to assess their suitability and continuing necessity. Senator TROETH (Victoria— Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for As the first stage of the statute stocktake, I wrote to portfolio ministers in 1997, asking them to Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) (7.41 identify legislation which was no longer required p.m.)—I indicate to the Senate that these bills and which could therefore be repealed. are being introduced together. After debate on The stocktake has revealed many redundant acts the motion for the second reading has been still on the statute book. adjourned, I will be moving a motion to have This bill will repeal 96 principal or stand-alone acts the bills listed separately on the Notice Paper. that are still on the statute book despite having no I move: further operation. That these bills may proceed without formalities, This will reduce the total number of substantive may be taken together and be now read a first time. acts on the statute book by over 7 per cent. Question resolved in the affirmative. The bill also includes provisions to make conse- quential amendments and transitional and saving Bills read a first time. provisions relating to the repeals. Second Reading The consequential amendments will remove references to the repealed acts and ensure that other Senator TROETH (Victoria— acts can continue to operate properly despite those Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for repeals. Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry) (7.42 The transitional and saving provisions will ensure p.m.)—I table the revised explanatory memo- that the repeals do not have any adverse effects on randa relating to the Statute Stocktake Bill existing rights. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7043

This bill repeals redundant laws as recommended mittee made 11 recommendations, of which the by the Small Business Deregulation Task Force. It Government has accepted 10. The Committee’s is an important contribution to the government’s recommendations were designed to strengthen the policy of reviewing and repairing the statute book. role and functions of the ARC. A copy of the Although of itself an important exercise, this is but Government’s response to the Committee’s recom- the first stage of the stocktake process. Ministers mendations, indicating the Government’s imple- and their departments have also been asked to mentation strategy, was tabled in the Senate on 1 identify legislation for repair. Further work will April 1998. The amendments contained in the bill continue to be undertaken to give effect to the will complete the Government’s implementation of Coalition’s ongoing commitment to clean up our the Committee’s recommendations. laws. The amendments to the Australian Law Reform The repair of legislation is politically a low profile Commission (Repeal, Transitional and task which does not attract much attention from the Miscellaneous) Act 1996 will update certain refer- media. Some might see it as a thankless task. It ences in, and provide for the commencement of, requires hard work, dedication and commitment. Schedule 1 to the act. The Coalition is doing what Labor failed to do in Government. The bill will amend the Australian Protective The winners, however, are all Australians. Whether Service Act 1987 to allow the Director of the it is small business taking out a franchise, a public Protective Service to lawfully charge for services company developing a major infrastructure propo- rendered to non-Commonwealth persons and sal, an aboriginal receiving Abstudy assistance to bodies. The amendment will require any such go to university or a family qualifying for the charge to be reasonably related to the costs of savings rebate, we all benefit from clearer more providing the services in question. accessible laws. The bill will amend the Bankruptcy Legislation This bill, together with the further changes the Amendment Act 1996 and the Corporate Law Coalition Government has initiated, reflects our Reform Act 1992 to correct drafting errors. commitment to reduce the volume of legislation, minimise the complexity of Commonwealth law The bill will make a number of amendments to the and ensure that any new legislation takes into Evidence Act 1995. Some of the amendments will account the impact it will have on our citizens. extend the operation of the Evidence Act to pro- The bill is expected to have no financial impact on ceedings in all Australian courts in relation to the Commonwealth. certain forms, applications, claims, returns and other similar documents received by Common- wealth departments and agencies. The amendments LAW AND JUSTICE LEGISLATION will apply the rules in the Evidence Act on the adducing of evidence to how evidence of such AMENDMENT BILL 1999 documents is given in proceedings in a State or The Law and Justice Legislation Amendment Bill Northern Territory court. Other amendments will 1999 amends a number of acts coming within the give effect to regulations made or amended after Attorney-General’s portfolio. It also amends one act the commencement of the Evidence Act giving within the responsibility of the Treasurer and one evidentiary effect to a certificate or other document, act within the responsibility of the Minister for accommodate the taking of evidence by affidavit, Employment, Workplace Relations and Small and make minor drafting corrections to the act. Business. The bill contains amendments of a minor policy nature, makes minor technical amendments The bill will make a number of amendments to the to existing legislation and repeals a spent provision. Federal Court of Australia Act 1976. One amend- ment will allow additional judges of the Supreme The amendments are explained in the explanatory Court of the Australian Capital Territory, as well memorandum circulated with the bill. The amend- as resident judges, to be included on the Full Court ments will not have any significant financial of the Federal Court. Another amendment will impact. provide that the Registrar of the Federal Court may Schedule 1 to the bill will amend Part V of the authorise officers or employees of the Court to Administrative Appeals Tribunal Act 1975 (the administer oaths and affidavits for the purposes of AAT Act). Part V of the AAT Act provides for the the Court. The bill will also insert into the act a establishment and role of the Administrative standard regulation making power. This amendment Review Council (the ARC). The Senate Legal and will ensure that regulations can be validly made Constitutional Legislation Committee produced a increasing the limit in relation to which the Court ‘Report on the Role and Function of the Adminis- may enter contracts, to a ‘prescribed higher trative Review Council’ in June 1997. The Com- amount’ where necessary. 7044 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

The bill will insert a similar regulation making Background power into the High Court of Australia Act 1979 for the same purpose. The Australian Sports Commission Act was enacted in 1989. Since that time, the incidence of the use The bill will amend the Judges’ Pensions Act 1968 of drugs to improve sporting achievement has to include service as a judge of the Supreme Court increased significantly. So too has the use of of the Australian Capital Territory in the definition substances which will conceal their presence in of ‘prior judicial service’. The amendment will put samples taken as part of a drug testing regime. ACT judges in the same position as judges of the Northern Territory and State Supreme Courts. Australia owes it to its athletes to take every possible step to make it clear that we intend to The bill will make a number of amendments to the pursue the principles of ‘fair play’ which are so Judiciary Act 1903. firmly entrenched in the Australian culture. We One of the amendments will expressly exclude the must make clear our intention that Australia will conferral of criminal jurisdiction on the Federal take action against any athlete who doesn’t play by Court, except where that jurisdiction is conferred the rules, who relies on drugs to improve their upon the Court by some other Commonwealth sporting performance—in other words, who cheats. statute. This will prevent a litigant from seeking to Our athletes have the right to expect that of us. use the provision to bring a private prosecution before the Federal Court, or to include a criminal The Commission has an obvious role to play in this matter as an element of a civil case in which the respect. It is important that the Commission be Federal Court has jurisdiction. Other amendments provided with the ability to maintain vigilance on will repeal a spent provision and provide that the our athletes’ behalf. The Commission must have restriction contained in the act, that a superior court the ability to keep in step with the contemporary is not invested with federal jurisdiction over a environment. It must be empowered to take action summary offence against the Commonwealth, is where it is clear that breaches of anti-doping confined to the exercise of federal criminal jurisdic- policies are likely to have occurred. tion by courts of summary jurisdiction. Major Features of the Bill The bill will amend the Jury Exemption Act 1965 to update certain references in the Schedule. The bill puts in place a mechanism to enable Customs to inform the Commission about the The bill will make amendments to the Law and importation, or the attempted importation, by a Justice Legislation Amendment Act 1997 and the competitor, or for the use of one or more competi- Marriage Act 1961 to correct minor drafting errors. tors, of performance enhancing drugs, and substan- The bill will amend the Workplace Relations and ces which can conceal the use of those drugs. Other Legislation Amendment Act 1996 to correct However, the information cannot be passed on by a previous misdescription of amendments intended Customs unless the Chief Executive Officer is to have been made by the act, and to correct a satisfied that a number of requirements set down in technical anomaly. the bill have been met. The bill also contains a provision for the Executive Director of the Commission to inform the relevant AUSTRALIAN SPORTS COMMISSION national or international sporting organisation about AMENDMENT BILL 1999 a likely breach of an anti-doping policy. It will Purpose of the Bill allow the Commission to pass information to those sporting organisations which have an anti-doping This bill amends the Australian Sports Commission policy and which are involved in the organisation Act 1989. of national or international competitions, or the The proposed amendments provide for an exchange preparation of competitors for those competitions. of information between the Australian Sports This provision will cover organisations such as the Commission and the Australian Customs Service in State and Territory sports agencies and academies. relation to the importation, or attempted importa- Again, the bill sets down the strict circumstances tion, into Australia, of substances that enhance under which the information can be passed on, and sporting performance, or substances that can be the purpose for which it can be used. used to conceal the use of performance enhancing The bill also contains provision for the Commission drugs. to pass limited information to Customs to assist in This information will be used by these agencies, identifying persons who may be importing sports within stringent safeguards, to contribute to the substances for use by one or more competitors, but pursuit of a sporting environment free from the again sets down the purposes for which the infor- unsanctioned use of performance enhancing drugs mation can be used, and the circumstances under or doping methods. which it can be passed. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7045

To ensure that information is not improperly Export Market Development Grants Legislation disclosed, there is provision in the bill for all Amendment Bill 1999 Commission officials to be subject to section 70 of the Crimes Act 1914 which imposes secrecy REGIONAL FOREST AGREEMENTS obligations on Commonwealth Officers. BILL 1998 In providing for the exchange of information between Customs and the Commission, these Second Reading amendments take care to also provide for the security of that information, and the rights of Debate resumed from 15 February, on competitors in relation to its use. motion by Senator Minchin: Financial Impact Statement That this bill be now read a second time. The Commission’s budget will absorb any costs Senator FORSHAW (New South Wales) associated with the additional administrative action (7.43 p.m.)—Finally, at 17 minutes to eight involved in this initiative. on 9 August 1999, we get to debate the Conclusion Regional Forest Agreements Bill 1998—a I am confident that most Australians will want to most significant occurrence. It is significant ensure that the Australian sporting ethos based on because this bill, on which we are commen- honesty, fair play, excellence, and opportunity for all, is preserved for future generations of Australian cing the second reading debate this evening, sports people. This bill will enable the Commission was first put on the Notice Paper at the to contribute towards the realisation of those beginning of this year. Indeed, late last year, values. the members of the Senate Rural and Region- It will also clearly signal to the international al Affairs Legislation Committee were told sporting community that Australia will not tolerate that this legislation was so vital and so im- or condone the use of performance enhancing portant that it needed to be debated and drugs. This is particularly important as we approach passed within the first week or two of this the Sydney 2000 Games. year’s sittings. Because of that urgency, the I must also take this opportunity to stress that this committee had to consider the legislation and bill is only one expression of the Government’s commitment to drug free sport. The Government report by the first week of the 1999 sittings— recently announced Australia’s Anti-drugs in Sport that is, the sittings that commenced in Februa- Strategy 1999-2000 and Beyond—Tough on Drugs ry this year. in Sport. This Strategy pulls together a suite of anti-doping measures which together form a So the committee dutifully did that, not- comprehensive and co-ordinated anti-doping withstanding the fact that it meant that the regime. committee’s deliberations had to be done over I commend the bill to the Senate. the Christmas-New Year period and that we had to truncate the public hearings to ensure Debate (on motion by Senator Quirke) that we could meet the timetable set by the adjourned. government and by the Senate and notwith- Ordered that these bills be listed on the standing that this was a piece of legislation Notice Paper as separate orders of the day. that had extremely wide interest right across BILLS RETURNED FROM THE the community, particularly in regard to those HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES areas where the logging of forests takes place. Messages received from the House of We met the timetable set by the government Representatives returning the following bills and we brought our report in. There was, of without amendment: course, a majority report by the government Broadcasting Services Amendment (Online which said the bill should be passed unam- Services) Bill 1999 ended. There was a minority report by the Labor opposition which indicated that there Migration Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 1) should be some significant amendments made 1999 to the legislation. No doubt we will get on to Message received from the House of Repre- those in the committee stage of the debate sentatives agreeing to the amendment made this week. There were also reports from the by the Senate to the following bill: Democrats and the Greens. 7046 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

That was back in February that we were set entered into with Minister Tuckey to, in to debate this legislation. Since then, despite effect, phase out logging in certain old-growth the legislation being on the program virtually native forests by the year 2003. But, of every week and despite the fact that I have course, not everybody takes Minister had this speech prepared and in the top Tuckey’s threats and outbursts seriously. We drawer, what has happened? The government, have learned to live with them on this side of at every opportunity that they had to bring the chamber because we know that it is all this bill on, baulked. They refused to bring it bluff and bluster and hollow threats, notwith- on for debate, notwithstanding the importance standing some form, which I will not go into, of this legislation to the completion of the from the past. Even the Western Australian RFA process whereby all regional forest government are now learning that they cannot agreements are due to be completed by the always take Wilson Tuckey’s outbursts and end of this year. threats seriously because, on the same PM Why has the government procrastinated and program last Friday, 6 August, the response delayed? We have seen clearly the evidence, from the state Western Australian Minister for and it has been because of the incompetence the Environment, Cheryl Edwardes, to Mr of the Minister for Forestry and Conservation Tuckey was: in this government, the Hon. Wilson Tuckey. Well I think perhaps that is just Mr Tuckey talking, The minister huffs and puffs and has spent and we are really not interested in a fight with the most of this year roaming around the country- government. The message we got very clearly from the local councils and the community yesterday was side making outrageous threats against state a positive one. They want proactive action in governments, against the ALP and against the reinforcing and attracting investment to those Senate. Indeed, we have again recently seen communities for alternative employment opportuni- the abuse that he hurls and the threats he has ties and that is what we are about. made against his own coalition colleagues in The interviewer, Joe Pritchard, asked: the state of Western Australia. Wilson Tuckey has said this is war between the Let me quote what Minister Tuckey has federal leaders and the state leaders. Is it war? said recently, in the last couple of days. This Cheryl Edwardes replied: was an interview that was replayed on PM Well we are not interested in a fight with the after the introduction by Mr Mark Colvin, the government, the federal government. We are more presenter, who said: interested in getting on and helping those south- Australia is at war this evening, though not a shot west communities. has been fired. It’s a civil war between Federal and Joe Pritchard: State Governments, and the declaration came from the Federal Forests Minister, Wilson Tuckey. Isn’t Mr Tuckey being unhelpful by stirring up so much emotion? Mr Tuckey was quoted as saying: Cheryl Edwardes: I got preliminary advice from other sources and, in fact, I’ve spent three hours on the phone. I got up Oh well, look, I think it is just Mr Tuckey talking. at 3 o’clock in the morning in Helsinki to talk to We have a major problem developing in the people at the appropriate time here, and as I told forest debate in this country, and it is one that them, if you proceed with this I quoted some words from Phantom of the Opera: ‘There will be war we on the opposition side are sad to see between us’. And that’s where I stand on it. occur. We all know, irrespective of our particular political point of view, that the That is what he said in respect of the decision forest debate has been a heated debate for taken by the Western Australian government. many years. Senator Quirke—Ironbar. It is not an easy issue to resolve. Indeed, Senator FORSHAW—This is Ironbar when we were in government we saw, assem- Tuckey; this is Chainsaw Tuckey. That is bled around this parliament, the trucks of the what he said in regard to Premier Court and loggers blockading this parliament. We have his government when they recently made a seen time and again over the years this debate decision to revise the RFA that they had degenerate into slanging matches between Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7047 representatives of industry, no doubt properly I want to turn to the legislation and specifi- concerned about the future of their industry cally to the proposals that the opposition will and the jobs of their employees, and the be bringing before the chamber in the com- equally strong views held on the environment- mittee stage. As we have said in our report of alist side. It has never been an easy debate to the Senate committee, the opposition supports try to stand in the middle of and resolve, but the RFA process. That is a process that was when we were in government we, with the developed under the previous Labor govern- cooperation of all the states, established a ment and one which can deliver satisfactory, process for the development of regional forest balanced outcomes for the competing interests agreements. within this industry. The process, of course, has its genesis in the National Forests Policy Unfortunately, with the current federal statement, and there are 11 goals of the minister, who has now been in that position National Forests Policy statement. I want to since October last year—pretty close to 12 quote firstly the introductory paragraph, months in that portfolio—what have we seen? because it is important to bear it in mind We have seen the debate become divisive when considering this legislation. This is what again. It has even got to the extent that it is the National Forests Policy statement said: divisive within his own party. We have The Governments agree that, to achieve their vision declarations of war between a Liberal federal for the forest estate and to ensure that the com- minister and a Liberal Premier and a Liberal munity obtains a balanced returned from all forest government in Western Australia. That is the uses, eleven broad national goals must be pursued. level that the debate has degenerated to. These goals should be pursued within a regionally based planning framework that integrates environ- And what have we seen in terms of results mental and commercial objectives so that, as far as in that period? Not one RFA finalised since possible, provision is made for all forest values. this minister has been in the position, except The eleven broad national goals are as follows:— for the RFA that was negotiated in Western and they are set out under the headings Australia and has since been revised by the ‘Conservation’, ‘Wood production and indus- Western Australian government itself. Yet this try development’, ‘Integrated and coordinated minister was put in charge of this portfolio decision making and management’, ‘Private specifically to get this process completed native forests’, ‘Plantations’, ‘Water supply within the time frame set down: that is, by the and catchment management’, ‘Tourism and end of this year. other economic and social opportunities’, ‘Employment, workforce education and That is the background against which this training’, ‘Public awareness, education and legislation now comes before the Senate. This involvement’, ‘Research and development’ is legislation that this minister has said, if it and, finally, ‘International responsibilities’. is amended by the Senate, he would prefer to withdraw rather than accept any amendments The first two of those goals, particularly to it—once again, another threat. The problem conservation and wood production and indus- is that, whether or not one regards Mr try development, are particularly critical. It is Tuckey’s performance as being over the top, the RFA process which seeks to achieve the or whether he thinks he is funny and witty or balance between, on the one hand, conserva- making threats that he can carry out, or tion and, on the other hand, wood production whether other people think they are threats and industry development. The RFA process that are hollow or that he is merely all bluff is about achieving these goals through proper and bluster and talk, at the end of the day it scientific analysis and through assessment and does not really matter. What matters is that negotiation with all the relevant stakeholders. the proper process for negotiating RFAs is The problem, of course, is that some par- being undermined by the actions of an irre- ticipants in the debate do not really believe in sponsible, out of control minister, and the finding a balanced outcome between conser- sooner the Prime Minister does something vation on the one hand and resource security about it and him, the better. on the other. We reject that extreme position, 7048 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 whether it comes from those whom Senator key amendments. We propose to insert an Brown represents—and he has stood in this objects clause. That clause will reflect the chamber and has attacked the position of the provisions of the national forest policy state- Labor Party, claiming that it is a sell-out to ment. We propose to insert a provision where- the woodchip companies, a claim which is by a wood and paper industry council would totally erroneous and grossly unfair—or be established under legislation. This was a whether it comes from the other side, from commitment made by and included within the Minister Wilson Tuckey, who is unashamedly wood and paper industry strategy and, indeed, pro-logging to the point of irresponsibility. was one which was carried on until this For instance, Minister Wilson Tuckey is on government came into office after the 1996 record as claiming that the commitment to election and John Moore abolished the coun- protecting 60 per cent of old-growth forests cil. under the JANIS criteria was only ever a target: it was never a firm commitment and But the most important amendment—which was not something that he saw really ever had will no doubt be the subject of debate in the to be achieved. I know that he said that, chamber—is our proposal whereby regional because I heard him say it at the ABARE forest agreements would be subject to further Outlook conference earlier this year in Can- parliamentary scrutiny by the federal parlia- berra. Yet, if you look at the JANIS criteria, ment before they are given the final approval. they clearly spell out that at least 60 per cent We propose a system whereby RFAs, once in of old-growth forests will be protected—and, a draft proposal form, would be tabled in the indeed, that figure can be expected to increase parliament by the minister. A period of 15 as plantations are developed into the future. sitting days would then be available during which a resolution disapproving of an RFA I have already referred earlier to the may be passed. If no such resolution is passed minister’s attacks and criticisms of the states, within the specified time, then the RFA would such as the attacks he has made upon the become operative. New South Wales state government and the agreements they have negotiated on the North Coast forests, and his threats to withhold There has been a lot of misinformation and funding from the states—particularly from the scaremongering about this proposal. I want to state of New South Wales, because it hap- make it very clear why we put it forward. pened to be a Labor state and he happens not Firstly, whilst the process of negotiating really to agree with the politics of the Labor RFAs is the correct one, it is clear that not all government. Consequently, not long before of the stakeholders come to that process with the state election, he was threatening to clean hands and with a desire to bring about withhold the funding for the properly negoti- a balanced solution in accordance with the ated agreements in that state. objectives of the national forest policy state- ment. You do not need any further proof of Of course, what happened? His threats were that than seeing what is happening in this rejected. Indeed, even his own people and debate in Western Australia at the moment. supporters within the coalition have rejected The situation is that an RFA was entered into his views in that state, and the agreements between the state government and the federal reached between the New South Wales minister. Within a matter of a couple of government and the industry have been weeks the state government, because of the strongly supported across the political spec- public clamouring and outcry, as well as the trum. internal objection within that government to In turning specifically to the amendments the provisions of that RFA, amended it. And that the Labor Party will be seeking to move so we have the minister saying that he is not in the committee stage—we will be making going to accept it. That is a substantial reason some extensive comments in regard to them for such an RFA to be subject to the final at that point in time—I particularly want to scrutiny of this parliament in an expeditious make some brief comments about some of the and timely manner. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7049

It is certainly incumbent upon this parlia- review or challenge, the claims of one set of ment, when we will be giving future RFAs sectional interests to the detriment of other resource security for the next 20 years and sections of the industry, the government’s committing in excess of $100 million of employment and regional development objec- taxpayers’ funds in industry support and tives, Australia’s international obligations and restructuring, to have the final opportunity to the broader interests of the community. It will scrutinise any RFA negotiated between the facilitate the destruction of areas of unique executive of the federal government and a environmental significance, and it will do so state government. (Time expired) permanently and needlessly. Senator BARTLETT (Queensland) (8.03 p.m.)—I rise to make the initial contribution The Democrats’ particular concerns with the for the Australian Democrats on this piece of regional forest agreement process as it has legislation, the Regional Forest Agreements occurred and the legislation can be summa- Bill 1998, which is a very important piece of rised as follows. The RFA process as it has legislation dealing with a very crucial issue. occurred fails to resolve one of the most long I do so as the Democrats’ environment running and contentious issues to face the spokesperson. The second reading stage of the nation. It fails to deliver on jobs for impover- debate will be closed by my new colleague ished and vulnerable rural areas. It unfairly Senator Brian Greig, who has primary car- discriminates against the plantation industry. riage of this bill as the spokesperson on It will destroy many areas of native forest, forestry issues. including old-growth areas. It fails to protect Australia’s biodiversity, contrary to an inter- Firstly, I would particularly like to reinforce national agreement. It discriminates unfairly my agreement to, and support for, Senator against other important cultural values and Forshaw’s comments about the completely social and economic benefits provided for by farcical committee inquiry process and the native forest areas. It will be mostly con- totally inadequate time frame that was forced trolled by state governments which have upon the committee to inquire into this piece vested or financial short-term interests in the of legislation. I think it did the Senate’s outcomes, thereby leading to positions of reputation no good at all to have such an conflict of interest. It raises constitutional important issue dealt with in such a incredibly issues and imposes potential legal and finan- truncated time frame. As Senator Forshaw cial difficulties on the Commonwealth and the highlighted, the great shame was that the taxpayer. The Democrats argue that this bill committee was forced to go through that legitimates a process which has been unscien- process in such a ridiculously fast time tific, uneconomic, illogical and immoral. We frame—I think back in February—and yet are totally opposed to this bill. here we are, six months later, finally getting around to debating the legislation. I urge the The future of Australia’s forests has unfor- Senate as a whole to consider more wisely in tunately become a contentious and highly future the timetable it sets for legislation. I divisive issue. Hundreds of thousands of think that is a particularly extreme case of a people have marched in the streets, taken part major problem, but it is not an isolated case in protests in the forests themselves, written either. Another aspect of Senator Forshaw’s letters or directly participated in public inter- comments that bears agreement is his reflec- est or industry organised groups about the tion on the inadequate performance of the issue. There have been blockades and some- Minister for Forestry and Conservation, Mr times violent confrontations in forests in Tuckey. I think, if anything, he has done several states and even a blockade of federal more to move this issue in a backwards parliament. Successive governments—both direction than anything else. state and federal—have tried a variety of This regional forest agreement legislation as means to satisfy competing interests and it stands risks legitimising, for an extraordi- Australia’s obligations under international nary period with extraordinary protection from treaties. The regional forest agreement process 7050 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 was supposed to bring an end to the divisive- where it might be heading. Apart from my ness and conflict. concern about where the agreement may end The Rural and Regional Affairs and Trans- up, I am certainly also concerned about what port Legislation Committee inquiring into the that may mean in terms of the community bill—and I attended one of the two brief protests that it will engender and the increas- committee hearings as part of that process and ing community disquiet and confrontation that examined many of the submissions—heard will occur in Queensland and in south-east allegations that agreements had been reached Queensland where I am from. I very much on highly unscientific grounds in bureaucratic hope that we can avoid going down that secrecy without equal opportunity for all unnecessary path. stakeholders to be represented, that lobbying Of course, the question of RFAs is so vexed had changed reserved areas that were suppos- that even Australia’s larger political parties edly set in stone and that biodiversity and have found it difficult to come anywhere near conservation needs had been met with consensus on this issue. The National Party, ‘loggers’ scraps and slivers’. Even if only the Liberal Party and the Labor Party have all some of these allegations are true, the bill will had public stoushes between branches, state set such flawed agreements in place for a and central bodies on the issue, with brawls considerable period and place them far be- sometimes becoming major news. As the yond challenge or amendment. It is hard to legislation comes into the Senate and finally see how this will reduce conflict over starts being debated, it is quite clear that those Australia’s forests. brawls are continuing. It will be interesting to The motivation behind this bill—which is view the careful speeches and delicate posi- quite a slim bill—seems to be solely for the tioning of individuals who are going to have Commonwealth to abdicate its environmental to justify themselves before their caucus, their responsibilities and legal powers to the states. states, their factions, their branches and their The bill removes hard fought for community electorates as this legislation progresses. Of and environmental safeguards, favours the course, the final vote in the chamber is what declining sector of the industry at the expense counts, and it is clear that some would prefer of the growing sector of the industry, and the legislation to be started all over again—or offers selective compensation as a means to to be thrown out all together—and that others put the schemes beyond the reach of further do not agree with particular aspects of RFAs consideration or challenge. and will be voting against their own judg- The Democrats are concerned that the ments. perception that one interest has achieved an It has also become obvious that many officially sanctioned game, set and match with politicians are so confused over the massive this legislation will exacerbate rather than amount of sometimes quite emotive informa- resolve community conflict. Indeed, the tion coming from either side and the passion- implied lack of productive outlets for express- ate nature of the issue that they have taken ing widespread community disquiet over the easy option of believing that you just woodchipping operations in old growth forests cannot win on forests, that there is no out- in particular may mean that protest assumes come which will satisfy anybody and that the a more extreme and confrontational aspect only way to deal with the dreaded ‘f’ word is than has been the case to date. We only need to hush it up and weld in legislation that will to look—as Senator Forshaw has alluded in push the issue aside for many years to come. his contribution—to the immense community It was clear from the submissions to the disquiet in Western Australia over the inad- legislative committee that examined the bill equacy of the process. that the range of people unhappy with the Speaking as a Queenslander with an RFA RFAs will not give up and will keep making that has been under negotiation for some time, this an issue, even if this attempt to lock the it clearly seems to be taking a turn for the forests out of the legislative protection at the worse and there is great concern in terms of federal level does actually pass this chamber. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7051

The Democrats predict that the issue will plantation industry? It does not. The National remain a bleeding sore for major parties and Forest Policy Statement provides for a com- individuals in those parties while ever the prehensive, adequate and representative industry remains unsustainable, while people reserve system. Does the RFA bill or the RFA are not offered meaningful and continuing process guarantee that? It clearly does not. work and while native forests are logged for Again, I only need to point to south-east woodchips. The RFAs lock in those concerns, Queensland in my own state where the clear- so it is logical to assume that the community ing that has already occurred puts the land will continue to be unhappy with their elected there beyond what is already an inadequate and aspiring representatives. and representative reserve system. Yet the The Democrats feel that the only basis for industry—and certainly Minister Tuckey—is greater community consensus on this issue proposing that significant areas of the already lies with an open process based on more inadequate remnants of native forests be equal inputs from stakeholders, undistorted further cleared. scientific and economic assessment and The National Forest Policy Statement community education. Compensation may allows for areas where comprehensive, repre- well be part of a long-term solution to the sentative and adequate systems are in place. vexed question of access to Australian forests. Approvals for exports of woodchips for However, it should be focused on assistance periods longer than one year assume the to affected communities rather than being—as Commonwealth will be able to meet its the RFAs risk implying—a handout to com- obligations under section 30 of the Australian panies, pork barrel for some electorates or a Heritage Commission Act. The question is: threatened big stick to ward off any communi- will the Commonwealth meet those obliga- ty efforts to rearrange or alter agreements. tions? The answer clearly is no. Clause 5, Yet the reason that the regional forest subsection (3) provides that, for areas under legislation has been put before the Senate is an RFA, section 30 of the Australian Heritage to provide a so-called resolution to forest Commission Act must be disregarded. Again issues. It is clear that this process has failed under the comprehensive, representative and that test, and voting for this legislation will adequate reserve system a set of nationally continue such conflict in the Australian agreed criteria—the JANIS criteria—were community. This reason alone—among many established. Do the RFAs meet those criteria? others—is sufficient to throw this legislation Let us have a look at a couple of examples. out. A benchmark of 15 per cent of the pre-1750 This piece of legislation comes with an distribution of each forest community was to explanatory memorandum which contains be protected within conservation reserves, yet assertions that in the Democrats’ view are this criterion has clearly not been met. An- simply not correct. I would like to focus on other benchmark is the retention in reserves two of them. The first is in the general outline of at least 60 per cent of existing old growth, of the explanatory memorandum: increasing up to 100 per cent for rare forest RFAs are the central focus of a package of meas- community old growth. Is that criterion met? ures designed to implement the National Forest Again, the answer is no. While on the old Policy Statement (adopted by the Commonwealth growth issue, this bill and the explanatory and all State and Territory Governments) in relation memorandum and the RFAs claim to be about to native forests. ecologically sustainable development. It is There are some simple tests to see if this patently clear that it is not possible to statement is accurate, and I will highlight just sustainably log old-growth forest. This fact a few. The National Forest Policy Statement was even recognised by that well-known left- provides for the development of Australia’s wing, pinko, feral greenie organisation, the plantation industry. Does this bill—and the Resource Assessment Commission. Just going RFA process that it seeks to legitimise—in back to the JANIS criteria, another criterion any way assist the development of Australia’s is the protection of 90 per cent or more, 7052 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 wherever practicable, of high quality wilder- been cleared since the middle of last century. ness. This is another criterion that is not met. In an open letter printed in the Courier-Mail The second falsehood in the explanatory recently a range of individuals and organisa- memorandum which needs highlighting will tions, including the Queensland division of be more fully explored by my colleague the Australian Democrats, urged Premier Senator Andrew Murray—it deals with finan- Beattie to protect the native forests of south- cial issues which is a specialty of Senator east Queensland, pointing out such facts that Murray’s—but is worthy of mention here. scientific studies have found only 2.7 per cent That is that the RFA has no direct financial of native forests in south-east Queensland are implications. It is beyond belief that any clearly identified as old growth. responsible government would seek to put out South-east Queensland has the smallest such a statement about a bill before the house percentage of forests protected in national of review, which this chamber is, and expect parks and other reserves of any forested to get away with it. region in Australia. An expanded parks This bill sets up provision for massive system must protect high quality habitat for compensation payouts to the states with a forest animals and include all high conser- blank cheque, and the government wants the vation value forests such as Mapleton, Senate to sign it—a blank cheque for about Bellthorpe, the Conondales, Mt Mee, Tewan- 20 years. Putting aside any environmental or tin and many more. South-east Queensland social arguments about the RFA process, this already has plantations providing 73 per cent simple fact alone should be enough for the of all sawlogs produced in the region. Estab- Senate to force the government to suspend the lishing additional plantations on already legislation until it can absolutely quantify the cleared land will help Australia meet its amount of compensation the public purse may obligations in dealing with the greenhouse be eligible for in the future. effect and assist in a speedy transition to plantation timber production. I would like to emphasise briefly the situa- tion facing the forests of south-east Queens- Polling conducted as part of the forest land, the area that I represent. The fate of agreement process has indicated that 83 per south-east Queensland forests, in part, may be cent of people in south-east Queensland do decided by the future of this legislation. As a not want logging continued in our native Democrat I was heavily involved during the forests and yet that is specifically the agenda last state election in Queensland in the discus- that Minister Tuckey, in particular, has tried sions with all parties about what their com- to impose on the negotiation process for the mitments would be on environmental issues, RFA in south-east Queensland. That process particularly relating to land clearing, which is had for some time been proceeding in a a vital issue in Queensland, and the future of constructive fashion between timber industry the forests. Clearly, the preference decisions representatives and conservationists, particu- of many Democrat voters were quite crucial larly the Rainforest Conservation Society, but to the Labor Party eventually winning govern- it was obviously a process of great concern to ment by an extremely narrow margin, as Minister Tuckey. He clearly put in a lot of everybody knows. effort to destroy that constructive working I am sure they were influenced in part by relationship and to ensure that protection of the commitments that the ALP made in Queensland’s native forests was not going to relation to the future of the native forests. I be an end outcome on the negotiation. call on Premier Beattie to stick to his election South-east Queensland is an area of ap- commitment to move logging out of native proximately 2.7 million hectares and is the forests as a matter of urgency. Queensland home of some of the most biologically rich forests are already the least protected of any and unique forests in Australia. Tall eucalypt in Australia and yet they contain the highest forests dominated by blackbutt and tallow- levels of biodiversity. Fifty-five per cent of wood rise above the ridge lines of the great native forests in south-east Queensland have divide and the coastal ranges. Amongst the Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7053 gullies and ravines there are precious rem- also be able to say, after so many years of nants of the once extensive subtropical rain- debate on this issue, that we are actually forest that dominated the landscape of south- heading somewhere. Who would have thought east Queensland for thousands of years. These that, after some 15 years, we would still be forests are of enormous significance to the heading nowhere and that this particular region’s traditional owners. Together with process would be in just as big a mess—if not northern New South Wales, these forests a bigger mess—today as it was 15 years ago? include the last global stronghold of subtropi- In looking at the Regional Forest Agreement cal rainforests and contain at least 284 plant legislation and the purpose for which it is and animal species that are found nowhere intended, we firstly probably have to look at else on the planet. the Regional Forest Agreement process, the Once extensive in south-east Queensland, processes prior to that that actually brought these forests have been fragmented and regional forest agreements about and why isolated by repeated unsustainable logging and those processes were put in place. clearing. The unsustainable activities of the We know that the forestry debate raged for native forest timber industry in south-east many years in this country and led to a Queensland have led to a wood supply crisis. process being introduced by the Common- Having decimated the extensive stands of red wealth government known as the National cedar, hoop and bunya pines, the native forest Forest Policy Statement, which was the industry has now nearly exhausted the avail- forerunner and mechanism through which able sawlog supplies of eucalypt species such Regional Forest Agreements would be devel- as blackbutt. oped. Part of that process, of course, was that Unsustainable logging and clearing has left we would see an end to the conflict in the a legacy of denuded river valleys and isolated forests and have an agreed process for the pockets of undisturbed old-growth and wilder- assessment of forests and ecosystems that ness forests. It is a matter of great concern to were worthy of protection and, indeed, war- me and, as I just pointed out, a significant ranted protection, as necessary for the well- majority of Queenslanders that these forest being of this country and its forests in the remnants are now under great threat with the longer term and, hopefully, forever. Secondly, RFA that is being considered at the moment that process was to provide some surety and in south-east Queensland. I again urge the security for the people involved in the com- state Labor government there to ensure that mercial aspect of forestry. We started off, I their pre-election commitments are met. think, with very good will and intent but, as The bill that we have started to debate I said, here we are now debating resource today is crucial in terms of how it increases security legislation and I have to say that, as the threat to those forests around Australia a process, it has succeeded in doing neither of that are subject to RFAs. In terms of my own the things that I just mentioned. region of Queensland, I urge the Senate not It has failed to determine the environmental to further increase the risk and threat to those debate in regard to what forests shall be valuable forests. I also urge the Senate to available, which shall not be available and explore another route to phasing out logging which shall be protected. More importantly— in old-growth forests as quickly as possible particularly from my point of view—I think rather than locking in financial protection for the Regional Forest Agreements that were woodchippers and loggers at the expense of supposed to provide security for workers in the very important and fundamental scientific this industry are not going to give that securi- and ecological criteria that were meant to be ty. Indeed, where Regional Forest Agreements at the foundation of the RFA process. exist today, those workers do not have securi- Senator MURPHY (Tasmania) (8.23 ty—not one little bit of security. I suppose p.m.)—What can I say? Although I come into that we have provided some security for some this place to make a contribution in regard to of the major companies involved in the this legislation, one would think that I might industry, particularly for the export 7054 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 woodchippers. We have provided circum- about which forests we are going to make stances where they can enter into what are available for commercial use. It is important known as ‘wood supply agreements’ that can that we make decisions based on sound last for many years, but what have we done science but also take account of the future of for workers? What is happening to the work- the forests of this country. What I cannot ers and contractors that those companies used stand, and never will be able to stand, is the to front the public profile and run the argu- wanton waste that I see going on around this ment and the case for security for this indus- country in the commercial use of these try? Most of them are losing their jobs. forests. Is the RFA system creating new jobs? Is it causing new investment in the industry? One As a nation, we ought to know that we have has to say no, not really; it is not doing that. such great opportunities, particularly within I know that in my state forestry is such an the hardwood industry. We know that nations important industry from a commercial point to our north and north-east have placed their of view. It is the second largest manufacturing hardwood forests under extreme pressure. employing industry in this state. It should be Indeed, some of them have been virtually the largest, but it is not. It will not ever wiped out. We know that, in Papua New become that until such time as governments— Guinea, the World Bank and the IMF have and I do not care of what political persua- instructed the government that it has to sion—are actually prepared to take up the change its practice with regard to its forests. issue and deal with this on the basis that it Anyone who has been there would know. You ought to be dealt with. can go through all of the Pacific nations and find the same problem. Although a small Head west, and the Western Australia timber supplier in world terms, we at least government signed a Regional Forest Agree- had an opportunity to take some steps forward ment with the Commonwealth that was in this process. But what have we done? We supposedly run through all the scientific have stuffed around with this issue for so processes to determine which forests would be long, vacillated and booted the political preserved and conserved and which would forestry football to and fro, that people are not, so that the people within the industry— fundamentally fed up with the issue. the workers and contractors; not the com- panies—would be able to at least have some My prime concern has always been the idea of what the future might hold for them. workers in the industry and the opportunities But no—what does Mr Court do? He reverts that exist for states and this nation to proceed to the old political game: forests and old- to have a better forest industry. I always growth forests are a political issue. The green thought governments ought to have played a Liberals say that we must preserve more of positive role in industry development. We saw the forests, so we throw out the Regional some aspects of that in the early days with Forest Agreement, which is supposed to be regard to some industry plans that were based on sound scientific knowledge. I am not developed by the former Labor government. going to purport to be an expert in that In respect of forestry, I have to say, we did respect, but that was the name of the game. not do all that well. In my view, we used it They were the processes put in place and wrongly as a political football for many years. agreed to, and yet they get ratted on. We finally started to head in the right direc- There is not a Regional Forest Agreement tion with regard to putting in place a process in this country, either existing or proposed, that was supposed to deliver outcomes—and that is going to deliver any security to work- I do not like to say this—for both views in ers in this industry. That is a shame because respect of forests. As I said, it has failed, and they are the ones whom we ought to have it is going to continue to fail until such time some feeling for. Of course, we must take as premiers, prime ministers and ministers account of the very important environmental responsible are able to put in place a process issues that are involved with making decisions that will stick. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7055

I have pursued the issue of forestry for a or federal, to come to grips with the issue and long time. Indeed, I have written to senators how the problem should be addressed. The in this place from time to time about forestry market for paper and the paper manufacturers related issues. As I said, I just cannot under- of the world will demand, and indeed are stand how we cannot get this right. It is not demanding, that the fibre that is supplied to as though it is difficult. It just needs a little them be whiter and younger. I would suggest bit of initiative and willpower and some that within the next three years we will see a proactive efforts on the part of government. self-declared end to the exporting of old- You can create a lot of jobs in this industry— growth hardwood woodchips. and I speak from my own state’s point of With regard to this bill, the opposition has view more than any other because that is the proposed some amendments, one of which I state that I have the most experience with. We have had a fair bit to do with—that is, the have recently had a review of segregation and one going to a wood and paper industry utilisation practices in my state, and I am council being established. The simple reason amazed at the fact that, despite the limited for my wanting that put into this legislation capacity of the reviewer and the fact that it is this: regional forest agreements have no was run at a time when forestry operations real review mechanism. There is a five-yearly were basically at a standstill, that person review—not annual, but five-yearly—but that developed a report that said that there were will be conducted by the participants to the significant things wrong. We have had an agreement and primarily by the state authori- industry growth plan proposed by the state ty. authority, the Forestry Corporation of Tas- mania. What are the mechanisms for us as a parlia- ment to make an assessment of the outcomes? By way of example, that industry growth How do we measure whether or not the plan proposed a certain number of things in commitments given by the state and the RFA terms of industry development, but primarily are being delivered? We cannot. If a state it proposed three laminated hardwood veneer does not deliver on its commitments, there is lumber plants. Of course, people say, ‘That no process by which the parliament can sounds like a reasonable idea.’ Yes, it does, debate the issues. In fact, once an RFA is except that there is really not much market for signed, a state, for all intents and purposes, hardwood LVL. Of course, if you ask any of can cut down all of the trees available in its the major consulting firms—that is, those that commercial forest area and ship them out as have any global experience—they will tell logs—and there is nothing we can do about you that there is not a market because of the it. At least if we have in this process a wood softwood competition and the fact that the and paper industry council, set up as proposed market essentially requires softwood LVL. by the opposition, it will provide for one They will also advise you that to produce a small mechanism whereby some people new product and then put it into the market- representing workers will be able to be in place could take as long as 10 years. there arguing the case for greater industry Of course, we have another aspect to the development. whole issue with regard to export woodchips. I notice that the government has proposed I listened to Senator Bartlett saying, ‘We want a late amendment that says it will ‘set up a to stop the export of woodchips.’ I do not forest products advisory council’ and that it disagree with that in respect of old-growth will be ‘constituted in accordance with the forests, but I say to Senator Bartlett, through regulations’. Of course, the Governor-General you, Mr Acting Deputy President, that it is may make regulations prescribing matters ‘(a) highly likely that those people exporting old- required or permitted by this act to be pre- growth hardwood woodchips will stop them- scribed or (b) necessary or convenient to be selves from that practice in terms of old- prescribed’ et cetera. With regard to the growth forests before we ever have any establishment of that council, it ‘provides for capacity at a governmental level, either state the establishment of a council to be known as 7056 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 the forest products advisory council’ and that is king of the woodchips, and it is certainly ‘functions of the council in relation to the not Paul Keating. It is the Prime Minister, forest and wood sector are to be prescribed by John Howard, who is king of the woodchips. regulations’ and ‘the council is to be consti- The existing minister for forests, try as he tuted in accordance with the regulations’. might, has not led this debate to where it We do not know what the regulations are. ought to be going. I just hope that one day a We do not even know whether workers will government might be able to do that; I do not be represented on the council. On the record think this one will, and I am not quite sure of the government, I have to say this: prior to whether we would. the last election, you people gave a commit- Senator BROWN (Tasmania) (8.43 p.m.)— ment to adhere to the national forest policy Once again I would like to commend Senator process, to adhere to the regional forest Murphy on his contribution. He comes at this agreement process—and that included the debate from a different angle and certainly establishment of a wood and paper industry with differently weighted priorities from me. council. It included a constitution for that But his concern for the workers in this indus- council and, indeed, a membership list for try underlines everything he says, and his that council. analysis of the failure of this industry to But the government did not adhere to that; deliver when it comes to average Australians it set up a thing not dissimilar to what it is is absolutely spot-on. proposing to set up again. That particular If we take today as an average day of forum established by the government I think logging activities taking place in Australian met only twice. You only have to see the native forests, 600 to 700 log trucks have circumstances with which we are now con- taken logs out of this nation’s native forests fronted to understand the worth of that to woodchip mills. The vast majority, 80 to forum—because we have gone nowhere. I 90 per cent—up to 95 per cent in Tasmania— have to say that I would have expected more; of those log trucks carting our native forest indeed, the government members on the heritage out of those wild forests are going to committee that dealt with this legislation— export woodchip mills. From export woodchip and I do not want to misrepresent them— mills, those forest products go through the certainly agreed that we did not want to have paper process and end up largely on the another forum that was of no value. rubbish dumps of the Northern Hemisphere, That is why it is of fundamental importance with a 1,000 per cent mark-up in the base that the amendment for the establishment of product going to overseas interests. a wood and paper industry council be in- There will be those who will talk about the corporated into this legislation and that there importance of jobs in this industry, and I only be a requirement at least that it then be wish the industry felt that was the case as included in regional forest agreements, both well. Since the export woodchippers set up those already in existence and those yet to their mills, first at Eden on the South Coast come. That will be the only way that workers of New South Wales—which is now the and contractors, people who have bought wholly Japanese owned Daishowa mill—and, plant and equipment in this industry, will shortly after, at Triabunna on the east coast of have some hope of getting some equity into Tasmania, the industry has shed 20,000 jobs. the process for themselves. That is what this This is largely due to the big corporations— was intended to do. I do not think anybody operating overseas or out of the states in intended ever to give security to export which the forests exist in the main—moving woodchip companies. I think both Labor in to close down small operators, small when last in government and the current sawmills, and bringing in technology which government said that on many occasions. In gets rid of workers in the bush where the little fact, I can remember the current Prime processing that remains occurs in Australia. Minister accusing the former Prime Minister They have got rid of workers both in process- of being the king woodchipper. I know who ing and in transporting. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7057

It pains me a lot to know that such workers mania to Melbourne. Besides that, Boral, the are out around the parliament of Western other big private woodchipper, in May this Australia tonight—much the same as they year cut its work force by nine jobs. were out around the parliament here a few Over 400 jobs have gone west in my little short years ago—at the bidding of the wood- state since the Regional Forest Agreement chip corporations, the big city based operators was signed, yet we have these corporations that fund the Forest Protection Society and that are interlinked through the National the other extensions of the woodchip industry. Forest Association crying crocodile tears in There is no security coming from those Western Australia and saying that the change corporations for the very people who sit out to the Regional Forest Agreement is causing there at night blockading parliament and, in the loss of jobs. We have a mass manipula- the case of Canberra—I do not know about tion going on there by these big corporations Western Australia—breaking the law with with the workers manipulated in the middle. impunity, something which conservationists I agree with Senator Murphy that it is time certainly do not get away with in the forests. that the workers’ interests were put at the It needs to be said that the hypocrisy of this forefront in this industry and the undue industry, crying crocodile tears over jobs, is influence of these big corporations was one of the reasons why it has lost the public. expunged from the political decision making In my home state of Tasmania, the Regional process. Forest Agreement was signed by the Prime I have only to reiterate to this chamber the Minister, John Howard, and by the then major decision made by the last government Liberal Premier of Tasmania, Tony Rundle, after Senator Faulkner, as minister for the and it has been taken up with gusto by the environment, made a very impressive stand now Labor Premier of Tasmania, Jim Bacon, for the wishes of most Australians that more who wanted to log even more of the forests. forests be protected in this country. That was In the short time since that was signed—less reversed under pressure. On the very day that than two years—we have seen the closure of the then forestry minister, Mr Beddall, issued the Burnie pulp mill, with a loss of 280 jobs licences to the woodchippers—21 December last October, and 10 per cent of the big 1965 is the date, if I am not wrong; I will woodchipper North’s work force axed, with correct that if necessary—the biggest suite of another 31 jobs lost in May and the sacking woodchip donations went to the big parties in of 33 workers—which is the entire work this parliament. That was not a coincidence. force, including the disabled work force—who That is undue influence, and it is only the tip were brought here to Canberra to campaign of the iceberg when one comes to analyse the for logging in the Tarkine against so-called power of these big corporations against not greenies. The lot of them have been closed only the interests of the forests the people are down and sacked since the Regional Forest concerned about but also the interests of their Agreement came in. own workers. Their major interest is profit: North then shed another 40 contractors’ downsizing, getting rid of jobs which cost jobs in February. Sixteen jobs went in the money and putting that across into their profit shake-up at Australian Newsprint Mills down line for the following year. in the Derwent Valley in June. Ongoing The big failure of this whole process and insecurity in the pine sawmilling industry due this legislation is to not look at the prudent to Forestry Tasmania’s refusal to give and feasible alternative, which is the massive Auspine and Wynwood secure contracts plantation establishment in this country, most continues. There has been the temporary of it paid for by taxpayers’ money over the closure of the Burnie paper mill in June this last 30 years. Those plantations are available. year. There has been North’s recent decision They are mature. They can provide all the to sell its private forests and plantations and wood requirements for this country, including its decision the month before last to transfer the current export woodchip aliquot. You nine information technology jobs from Tas- have mainly only softwood available but, as 7058 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 far as our important interests are concerned— Gippsland in Victoria—the first RFAs that including structural timbers for building in were signed. They are not to be brought this country—that is totally available from before parliament. There is no way Labor can plantations. We do not need to be destroying explain this inconsistency. That is why I will our forests and, what is more, the plantation be moving an amendment to ensure that all industry is at least involved in downstream regional forest agreements are brought before processing. Outside this whole process, the this duly elected parliament so that we can good news for jobs in this country is the new debate, analyse and give feedback as far as mill at Tumut which is going to employ 1,000 these regional forest agreements are con- workers in New South Wales and is totally cerned. based on plantations. That is happening at the In particular, if there is one thing I take same time as this crocodile tear shedding objection to in the provisions of this legisla- industry is putting hundreds of people out of tion it is section 7. It was the last section work, RFA signed or not RFA signed, in the added to this legislation, and it is the section native forest industry. which says that in future any Commonwealth What about the lost job opportunities? In minister who acts to protect part of my home state of Tasmania there are 18,000- Australia’s forest heritage makes the taxpayer plus jobs in tourism. Compare the 3,000 jobs liable to pay the woodchip corporations and that are dependent on forests and wilderness the other logging corporations who will lose to the 2,400 jobs dependent on logging access to the destruction of those very forests forests. These are on a collision course; you as far as their profit making future is con- cannot have it both ways. The smaller the cerned. There is a compensation clause in this wild forest aliquot the less interest, the less legislation added at the last minute under international renown and the more people are pressure of the woodchip corporations. But going to go elsewhere. So we have a choice there is no compensation in here for workers here: on the vertical, wild forests for the who lose their jobs—none at all. Is Labor tourist and recreation industry, which is going to support my amendment that puts that creating jobs, and they are good quality jobs; to rights? or, on the horizontal, forests on the back of a Why should we, as a parliament, be offer- log truck going to a woodchip mill to be ing compensation to these big woodchip processed elsewhere in the world where jobs corporations, including internationally based will be created while we lose jobs. corporations like Daishowa, but failing totally I am amazed that we are still having this to even get reskilling for workers who lose debate in this place. Moreover, this legislation their jobs because of the action of those very is a lay down misere for the woodchip indus- same corporations? It is totally wrong. This is, try. I am amazed that the Labor Party is going again, the parliament becoming involved in to support it, amendments or not. Let me look this manipulation by the woodchip corpora- at the pivotal amendment of the Labor Party: tions to their own interests. I foreshadow that it is that regional forest agreements ought to I will move an amendment to remove that be vetted by parliament. I am sure One compensation clause. I challenge the Labor Nation is going to agree that it is not good Party and the Democrats to back that. It is enough for a Prime Minister and a Premier to very important that we do not make the sign an agreement outside this parliament and taxpayers of this country responsible for say that that is how a publicly owned resource future moves by elected parliaments to protect is going to be worked for the next 20 years. the nation’s heritage in the interests of future Of course parliament should be vetting those generations or even in the interests of more regional forest agreements. But due to internal job rich alternative industries which depend pressures, including the enormous pressure of on those forests. the Bacon Labor government in Tasmania on In my home state there is an enormous the Labor caucus, the notable exceptions in amount of heritage at stake in this legislation. the Labor amendment are Tasmania and East For 20 years this will give the logging indus- Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7059 try based outside our state with boards of undertake RFA forestry operations—that is, management meeting elsewhere, most of whole scale woodchipping—without approval whom have never set foot in the wild forest of the minister if they are undertaken in we are concerned about, the power to deter- accordance with a regional forest agreement. mine what happens in those forests and it will I drew the attention of every Democrat to strip the federal authorities’—we, as elected this provision back in June. But they voted parliamentarians—right to stand up for this for it, and the destruction of the forests from nation’s heritage. I noted the contribution by here on in is on their plate. It is their respon- Senator Bartlett. I note that all nine Democrat sibility. They voted for it. To come in now members will be speaking in this second and vote exactly the opposite way shows at reading debate. I put this to the Democrats best, if we are going to put a good spin on it, and I ask the two new ones to look to those a complete confusion about their approach to who were here six weeks ago and ask this forests. More than that, it shows a culpability. question: how could you, how could the It shows a failure to carry through the rhetoric Democrats, without exception pass the so- of so many years of forest protection, and that called environment protection bill—guillotine has just been exemplified by what Senator it so that it could not be debated properly, Bartlett had to say, which, no doubt, every knock out the amendments through that Democrat in this debate is going to follow up guillotine process and in so doing endorse this with. I do not bring this matter up just as a very legislation? political point score. I drew this to their The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT attention before those votes were taken in (Senator Ferguson)—Senator Brown, I think June. They went ahead knowing what they you should address the Chair. were doing. Senator BROWN—How could they, This is dastardly legislation. It is awesomely Acting Deputy President? They will need destructive legislation. This locks this nation more than your protection before I am in for 20 years to the ongoing destruction of through in this debate, Acting Deputy Presi- our forests, our ecosystems and our wildlife dent. against the wishes, as the opinion polls show, The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT—Is of 80 per cent plus of people right around this that a threat, Senator Brown? Are you threat- nation. This is a failure of the political pro- ening the Chair? cess. This is a failure of the major parties. This is a tribute to political influence of the Senator BROWN—If you read it that way, corporate sector, including multinational it will not be the first mistake that has been corporations. It lets down not only the envi- made in this place. ronment but also the workers and tragically Senator Sherry interjecting— coopts them in the sort of event that is occur- Senator BROWN—And it will need more ring in Perth tonight and which we saw than Labor interjectors to come to the Demo- around this parliament only a few years ago. crats assistance on this. Just six weeks ago the I put this on notice: those who think that Democrats passed, with the use of the guillo- this is the end of the fight to protect, amongst tine, legislation which set in concrete the other things, the world’s tallest hardwood pivotal provision of this legislation which forests and ancient living ecosystems in my strips the Minister for the Environment and home state of Tasmania and to prevent them Heritage of the power to move to the protec- being turned across to this evil system inher- tion of the forests and their wildlife wherever ent in the regional forest agreements of an RFA is in place. That includes endangered logging, then fire bombing and then 1080 species. It overrides the endangered species poisoning—a complete destruction of eco- provisions of that legislation. That involves systems as a presage to putting in quick profit half the species of this nation’s plants and making, genetically manipulated plantations— fauna. The legislation which the Democrats and those who think that the spirit of the voted for in total says that a person may people who oppose that is going to go away, 7060 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 are very, very wrong indeed. If this legislation Statement 1992. The Commonwealth and the passes this Senate, and the signs are that it states and territories signed the National will, the fact that it is being sheeted home in Forest Policy Statement. That statement the way it is will be on the heads of not only outlined agreed objectives and policies for the the government but also the Labor Party and future of Australia’s public and private the Democrats. forests. It provided national goals in 11 areas. There will be a turnaround. It may be I will not go through those because time does difficult to achieve. It may take a lot of not permit. turmoil, but it will come. Worst of all is that As provided for in the National Forest we should leave that simply to the marauding Policy Statement, a comprehensive regional woodchippers to run out of profitability in the assessment, known as a CRA—a joint assess- forests that they are destroying at the moment ment of all the forestry values by the and say, ‘Well, this industry’s come to the Commonwealth and the state, an assessment end of its life.’ It should be transferred to a of the environment, the heritage, the econom- plantation basis now. It is a failure that, with ic and the social implications—will lead to the political system in this country, that is not the establishment of a comprehensive, ad- the outcome we are voting for in this legisla- equate and representative reserve system, tion. I move: agreements on forest management and the Omit all words after "That", substitute "further signing of regional forest agreements, known consideration of the bill be an order of the day for as RFAs. Where the CRAs are in place, the first sitting day after the first day on which all approvals for the export of woodchips for regional forest agreements have been completed periods longer than one year would be con- between the Commonwealth and Queensland, New sidered. The Commonwealth would be able to South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia". meet its legislative obligations under section Senator SHERRY (Tasmania) (9.03 30 of the Australian Heritage Commission p.m.)—It is not coincidence that, when look- Act. ing through the speakers list on this legisla- A regional forest agreement is an agreement tion, there are five senators from Tasmania of about the long-term management and use of the 20 speakers listed who will make a contri- forests in a particular region between the bution. As a senator from Tasmania, as indeed Commonwealth and the state government. The any of my colleagues know on all sides of the purpose is to reduce the uncertainty—and I chamber, in Tasmania you cannot escape stress the word ‘reduce’—the duplication and forestry as an issue. the fragmentation in government decision I am pleased to have been in the chamber making by producing a longstanding and when Senator Brown made his contribution. durable agreement on the management and Being from Tasmania, I am used to Senator use of forests. It was in December 1994 that Brown’s gross exaggerations. His somewhat the then Prime Minister, Mr Keating, inter- hysterical language, some of his use of termi- vened to expedite the regional forest agree- nology and some of the examples that he ment process. He announced a strict timetable paints to this chamber about forestry in that would be developed for each agreement Tasmania are gross exaggerations. I will refer which would be developed on the basis of to some specific instances a little later in my technical and scientific assessments of the contribution. Senator Brown has the habit, values of all the forests. and we are used to it in Tasmania, of painting In January 1997, the Commonwealth re- this as good versus evil, black versus white, leased details of the agreed criteria for the tourism versus forestry. You can never have reserve system. There were three broad a happy compromise according to Senator criteria of biodiversity for old-growth forests Brown. As I said, I will refer to some issues and wilderness: firstly, a benchmark of 15 per that he has raised a little later. cent of the pre-1750s distribution of each I turn firstly to the origin of the legislation forestry community to be protected within we are considering, the National Forest Policy conservation reserves; secondly, retention in Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7061 reserves of at least 60 per cent of existing old a national park or a world heritage wilderness growth, increasing up to 100 per cent for rare area in this country as well as have certain forestry and community old growth; and, areas set aside for the use of logging. You finally, protection of 90 per cent or more, can have both. Obviously there is an associat- where practical, of high quality wilderness. ed and very important spin-off in terms of I think it is fair to say that, on reflection of tourism in those world heritage and national forestry issues and the areas that should be park areas, and we have that in Tasmania. logged and the manner in which those areas Senator Brown would contend that the big should be logged, over the last 20 years, the corporations have moved in—they were his last couple of decades, Tasmania has been words—that they have closed in on the small strongly divided about the way in which operators and that the major parties are doing forest resources should be used and the way the bidding of the woodchip operators. He in which the environment should be protected. would argue that there should not be any If we look at the process that I and others woodchip exports. It is on that last point that have outlined, it had its genesis in the so- there would be some common ground be- called Salamanca agreement in Tasmania. tween Senator Brown and me. This was an agreement between the various I would fervently hope that we were not parties, including the environment movement, exporting woodchips from this country. I I might say, at that time and the then Labor would hope that we would maximise the government. I pay tribute to the contribution value adding of those woodchips in Australia. to that process by my state colleague David But, of course, what is the position of some Llewellyn and the ongoing development and, of the environment movement at least? It is I hope, finalisation of this process in the to oppose—at least at the present time—the recently signed RFA in Tasmania by my only practical way of converting those wood- colleague the Deputy Premier, Mr Paul chips into pulp or paper products in this Lennon. country, and that was well demonstrated by Senator Brown would have us believe that their attitude to the proposed pulp and paper every tree in every forest that is not in a mill development at Wesley Vale in my home plantation in Tasmania—and I will say some- state of Tasmania. thing about plantations a little later—is going Some in the environmental movement want to be chopped down, ruthlessly ripped to it both ways. They argue no logging of native pieces and exported as woodchips. That is the forests, convert over to plantations tomorrow scenario that Senator Brown would paint, but and no woodchips and do it tomorrow. That that is very far from the truth, and I can speak is simply not possible and not practical. If we with at least some knowledge of the situation were to adopt that as an approach, we would in Tasmania. shut down the entire forest industry in Aus- In my home state, the outcome of the RFA tralia overnight. The social and economic process has been that the total area of Tas- outcomes of that would be catastrophic in mania now within reserves is 2.7 million terms of not just the jobs lost in regional hectares, or 40 per cent of Tasmania’s total economies, I might say, not in the big cities, land area. As a result of the RFA process, an but the tens of thousands of jobs lost in additional 396,000 hectares of public land Australia, not to mention the thousands of reserved, based on the CAR criteria, was jobs lost in Tasmania, my home state, which placed into those reserves, thus expanding the has a very significant unemployment rate. amount of public land within reserves by an What is often lost in this debate is that additional 17 per cent. Some 95 per cent of forestry and the downstream processing of high quality wilderness areas are now includ- forestry is a major regional employer in this ed within the CAR reserve system in my country. It is all very well for Senator Brown home state of Tasmania. to say that the big corporations have moved I would contend you can have it both ways. in and are reducing labour and reducing You can have a world-class forestry reserve, employment—I accept that total employment 7062 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 levels have dropped in most areas of the we log old-growth forests in Tasmania, on a forest industries as a result of technology— sustainable basis, is that certain species of but Senator Brown’s solution is to wipe the good quality and high demand timber cannot industry out overnight, to not have the indus- be grown in plantations. Presumably under try at all. He wants to get rid of all the jobs Senator Brown’s proposed solutions you just and get rid of all the value adding because the say goodbye to that section of the industry jobs in the forest industries have been slowly One of the interesting issues about the reduced. He in fact proposes an accelerated environmental movement’s point of view is process to deal with what he considers to be plantations. Interestingly, in Europe much of the problem. Of course, forestry is no differ- the environment movement is very concerned ent from most other manufacturing processes about plantations because plantations are in this country with the advent of technology. monocultures. Plantations are single species I was disappointed that Senator Brown trees—vast thousands of hectares of crop used, as an example of the decline in jobs, the growing with very little biodiversity within manufacturing operation at Somerset, where those plantations. That is a major issue of there are a number of disabled workers. I concern in Europe amongst the environment make particular comment about this because movement today. It has, I would argue, a the closure of that operation in Somerset had much more significant impact on biodiversity, absolutely nothing to do with disputes about the local ecology and the water systems than access to forestry resources. As I understand native forest, both old-growth and regrowth it, it was something to do with the alleged forest, that is logged on a sustainable basis. poor management of the operation at the time. As I said earlier in my contribution, we It had absolutely nothing to do with the RFA have been dealing with this issue for about 20 or access to forestry products. He makes years in Tasmania. The Regional Forest mention of those disabled workers at Somer- Agreement has been completed in Tasmania, set in a misleading way, using that situation the legislation has passed the Tasmanian as an example of jobs declining in this indus- parliament and my hope is that, with the try. He talks about the undue influence of big successful conclusion of the RFA process at corporations, but if we were to get rid of a state level and at a national level, we will every big corporation in Australia—least of see the end of at least some of the difficulties all in Tasmania—not just in the forest indus- we have seen associated with forest industries. try but right across industry, I suspect we It is important for those who rely on the would be wiping out half the manufacturing forest industries to have security of resource. sector in this country overnight. It is not a That is an important issue. It is also important terribly logical argument from Senator Brown. that there are significant areas of wilderness We make a couple of comments about and world heritage that are put aside for plantations, but why do we log old-growth future recreational use and the important forests? Firstly, hopefully, and I think we are tourist industry. As I said earlier, we are now at that point, we are logging them on a fortunate, at least in Tasmania, to have the sustainable basis. We log old-growth forests best of both worlds. in certain areas in Australia because you One thing I did learn about this issue long cannot immediately switch over to plantations. ago is that you have to have a reasonable, It will take 20 or 30 years to switch over to logical and scientific process. If you do not plantations for logging purposes in this have that, you can make short-term political country, and even then there are certain judgments to satisfy particular constituencies, species of trees that are in demand, not for whether it be an industry constituency driven woodchips but for good quality timbers, that by its short-term needs, or it be the environ- do not grow in plantations. We have two ment constituency with its insatiable demand basic problems that the environment move- for preserving every tree. I do not think there ment would have us believe are solved over- would be one tree that Bob Brown could night, and they can’t be. One of the reasons point to in Tasmania that he would be happy Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7063 to see cut down—he would be opposed to and realisation of a reasonable reality and a every tree being cut down and there would balance on the reality of this issue. not be an exception. I can recall Senator I would say that I am concerned about Brown being opposed to the cutting down and woodchip exports. I think there is a real removal of some disease ridden exotic trees political danger that we will see an unravel- in the Hobart Botanical Gardens. Senator ling of RFAs unless we see greater down- Brown takes the most extreme views. It was stream processing in Australia, particularly in not a weed, but it was certainly a threat my home state, of woodchip exports. Wood- because of the disease and the fact that the chip exports are an unfortunate by-product of tree itself posed a significant threat. logging—and they should be a by-product and Senator Quirke—Not even a weed. not the primary purpose for logging forests. Senator SHERRY—Not even a weed can But, of course, I have highlighted the hypocri- be dispensed with. I do think that is some- sy of the environment movement when it times Senator Brown’s position. I find that comes to processing or downstreaming those very disappointing and very sad because you woodchips into pulp and paper in Australia. cannot compromise with Senator Brown, and That would certainly be of significant benefit compromise is possible. to my home state of Tasmania in terms of jobs and the critical problem that we have in With this legislation, and with the legisla- our balance of payments in the forest areas. tion that is passed in my home state of Tas- (Time expired) mania, we will certainly see a process set in place that ensures adequate reserve systems, Senator WOODLEY (Queensland) (9.23 that ensures world heritage and wilderness p.m.)—I also want to speak on the Regional values are maintained, on the one hand, and, Forest Agreements Bill 1998 and perhaps on the other hand, ensures that there are areas make a couple of comments about previous that are available to the forest industries for speakers. Let me commend Senator Sherry for their legitimate use. Senator Brown referred his speech. While I do not agree with all of to logging and firebombing. The reason you it, as usual it is a very thoughtful, considered burn a regrowth native forest after logging is and reasoned approach that he takes, and he to regenerate it. If any senators have seen an has made a useful contribution. old-growth forest that is not burnt after it has I was going to comment about Senator been logged, it is an absolute catastrophe; it Brown’s speech, but I think Senator Sherry is a wasteland. What regrows as a result is a has probably covered most of the things I total disaster. Fire is a natural part of the would want to say. I am not sure what Sena- forestry ecology in eucalypt forests in this tor Brown is trying to do, because he makes country. the same speech time after time, and it is Senator Quirke interjecting— always negative. One of the other problems Senator SHERRY—They are trying it out with Senator Brown’s contribution is that he in Western Australia. Senator Brown raises always uses half-truths, and half-truths are these highly emotive descriptions when, in probably the worst kind of lie that there is, fact, they are part of the very essence and because they always promote a suggestion survival of eucalypt forests in this country. He that what he is saying has some truth in it and never explains that to his particular constitu- therefore it should be listened to. But in fact, ency. I hope that we see at least the end of when you promote a half-truth, it is the most some of the more rancorous and outrageous dangerous lie of all. contributions we have had from sections of That is why I believe that what Senator the environment movement and, in particular, Sherry has said—while I would have wanted Senator Brown. Fortunately, with the setting to have gone into detail—covered some of the in place of this process in my home state of things that I would have said. Obviously, I do Tasmania, and I hope nationally, we have not agree with all of Senator Sherry’s contri- seen some security on both sides of the divide butions but, as I said by way of introduction, on this issue. We have seen some acceptance certainly it is always worth listening to the 7064 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 contribution he makes because it is always ing mechanisation, corporate consolidation well reasoned and well thought through. The and rationalisation of mill operations, and problem that the Democrats have is that we decreasing areas of easy source material. They do not really believe that the RFA process also include the takeover of pulping and delivers jobs—that is the biggest problem we woodchipping as the primary focus in many have with it—and certainly not for the impov- forest areas. This deters or deleteriously erished and vulnerable rural areas, where most affects downstream or value added invest- of the disputes are occurring. ment. Problems arise when plantation industry I had the responsibility of sitting in on the products, which are a greater employer, are Senate legislation committee which heard undercut to such an extent by lower employ- evidence from a number of witnesses about ment generating pulp and woodchip products. the breakdown of the social fabric of commu- The Democrats believe the only way in nities which are heavily dependent upon the which long-term job security can be assured timber industry. That breakdown continues, is through proper value adding to forest and that concerns me very deeply. I know products and basing the industry on sustain- some of these people personally, particularly able and existing plantations. It was demon- those in Queensland, and I know the hurt that strated by a number of witnesses, such as they are suffering. In particular, from the Judy Clark and Francis Gray, that the eco- Senate hearings, the evidence which was nomics of native forest logging are simply not given by the Forest Protection Society about sustainable. Of Australia’s 14 largest saw- this, and the evidence which they produced mills, each processing over 100,000 cubic and the documentation of the research which metres of logs per annum, all are softwood underpinned their evidence, is worth quoting plantation mills. None relies on native forest from. The Democrats are deeply concerned logs. about the decline in employment and popula- The Western Australian branch of the tion in many of Australia’s rural and regional Australian Workers Union is part of the way areas. The submission of the Forest Protection there in its assessment: Society stated in graphic language the situa- The jobs with manufacturing and processing tion: capability close to production of material in the RFA social assessments have identified many social south-west will enhance the quality of life for many affects our communities have, arising from inse- south-west residents. With this commitment to- curity and uncertainty, including very high unem- gether with that of the industry and workers, it ployment rates, increased suicides, substance abuse, would be possible for Western Australia to become marriage breakdowns and medical problems, as known for its furniture in the same way that well as economic consequences of bankruptcy and Holland is known for its tulips. There is no doubt debt related breakdown of business and family that, should this be the only exploitative use for units. those forests, the issue would not be as contentious. But since the majority use becomes focused around The Democrats recognise the loss of jobs in the voracious needs of the woodchip industry, the timber industry which has occurred over smaller saw millers are disadvantaged considerably. many years, although some witnesses gave Senator Shayne Murphy, in his evidence to evidence of a slight improvement in some the inquiry, argued that North Forest Products, areas. However, we reject the simplistic one of the main woodchippers in Tasmania, notion that job losses are primarily a result of is controlling the supply of logs for wood- attempts at environmental protection of old- chips to the detriment of small sawmillers and growth forests. that many logs are being sent to be chipped There are complex reasons for the loss of or even burnt when they could be processed jobs in the timber industry, some of which for higher quality uses. He pointed out that parallel the loss of jobs in many areas of rural sawlogs and timber for quality furniture are and remote Australia generally. Reasons being lost to the industry as a result. Senator unrelated to environmental activism—and, it Murphy showed the committee photos of a would seem, ones of far greater employment salvage operation after woodchip harvest significance—include the following: increas- where myrtle species suitable for sawlog use Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7065 were being taken away to be burnt. I quote farms in that area. There are about 11 differ- from his evidence: ent local government authorities involved in When you look at these photographs you will see, this particular experiment where, instead of and you do not have to be a rocket scientist to planting simply monoculture, the attempt has work it out, that these are sawlogs. The Forestry been made to plant a number of species in Corporation of Tasmania indicated to me—indeed, association with one another. So I take the in writing—that these coupes contain no sawlogs. point that Senator Sherry made that it is not Although some witnesses said the absence of necessarily the way of the future in relation completed RFAs was holding back invest- to plantation timber. ment, the actual evidence linking RFAs to employment outcomes was much less tan- The big employment generators are to be gible. Some basic figures were not available found in further processing of plantation sawn to the committee, including the exact number timber and wood panels into products like of jobs in the plantation sector and the num- furniture, joinery, roof trusses and the like. ber of jobs in the native forest sector overall. This way, the plantation industry further processes most of the timber it harvests, How are we to take the government on trust creating more jobs. The native forest industry that the RFA process is the way to solve the does not even get over the first hurdle of dispute about use of Australia’s native processing as they export most of their pro- forests? Senators certainly pursued a common ducts overseas as woodchips, and that is the line of inquiry in search of evidence that problem—they do not provide the raw pro- resource security will generate investment and duct for further processing. So it is nonsensi- jobs, but there was no substantial evidence cal to put money, legislative backing and time presented that it would. Even with RFAs into the native forest industry while failing at substantially in place the industry has not the same time to capture and increase jobs in made the commitment that it will invest in the the plantation sector. The irony is that most downstream processing that is the only pos- of those jobs are in regional Australia so it sible source of major new employment in the would match the government’s rhetoric native forest product sector. Indeed, evidence perfectly should they choose to deliver in this was given that the Burnie pulp mill closed area. with the imminent signing of the RFAs, with the loss of many jobs. The reality is that jobs Evidence was given that about 60 per cent in the native forest industry will continue to of wood logged from native forest is chipped decline because the native forest industry is and exported, and that is increasing and will relying more and more heavily on woodchip, continue to do so under the RFAs. Evidence despite the fact that the woodchip industry was also given that this process is heavily needs considerable propping up from the subsidised and the community receives a public purse and is unsustainable. grossly inadequate return on the use of its If the government were serious about long- resource. The majority of Australia’s pro- term jobs and security, then it should focus on cessed wood needs are being met by the the most commercially viable part of the plantation sector, and this process will con- industry—the plantation sector. Within that tinue despite the continuing heavy subsidy of sector investment must be encouraged in the native forest sector. The overall effect of processing and plantation wood, particularly the evidence, particularly that of economic at this time as we have larger and larger areas consultants, was that jobs would continue to of plantation coming on stream. I recognise be lost in the native forest sector covered by the comment made by Senator Sherry—that the RFAs and generated in the plantation is, that there is a problem with monoculture sector, which has been mainly ignored in the within plantations. However, it is not neces- RFA process. sary to have plantations simply of one spe- With indirect jobs the position only gets cies. There have been experiments in north worse. With the increasing dominance of Queensland particularly with revegetating and woodchipping in native forest logging, indi- replanting, particularly on clapped-out dairy rect employment in this area will continue to 7066 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 decline. It is apparent that government subsi- about investment or jobs. If the bill is before dies to increase downstream processing have the Senate in order to help increase employ- had an insignificant effect. In contrast, in the ment in rural and regional areas, it will have plantation sector not only is the employment the effect of suppressing employment in a multiplier greater, it will continue to improve growing sector and presiding over its dwin- regardless of the relative lack of government dling in a declining sector. The Democrats assistance. If the government were to match have not supported the RFA bill, because so its regional employment and development much information is distorted or missing and rhetoric with positive action it would be the RFA process does not satisfy our concern addressing a number of issues holding the for providing the maximum amount of jobs in plantation sector back, not continuing to prop a sustainable manner for rural and regional up a native forest sector even more in thrall Australia. to woodchipping interests which appear, from I want in the couple of minutes that are left the evidence, to have the lowest levels of to place on the record a number of articles by employment and the most minimal multipli- a journalist from the Courier-Mail in Bris- ers. bane, a journalist whom I respect very greatly. It is unfortunate, but apparently true, that His name is Tony Koch. Not only has he the plantation industry is at a crossroads written some very good articles on this issue; where there will be losses of potential down- he has written a number of articles in the stream jobs as a result of the RFAs. Prices of whole area of what is happening in Aboriginal native forest logs are now so low that there communities. They underline his commitment are starting to be stockpiles of sawlogs and to rural, remote and regional areas, particular- export of unprocessed plantation sawlogs as ly in my state of Queensland. He comments well. The Burnie pulp mill closed despite the about the particular issue in Queensland of imminent signing of the Tasmanian RFA, small sawmills, particularly in south-west meaning hundreds of jobs disappeared in an Queensland, that depend on the cypress pine area that could ill afford to lose them. industry. Senator Sherry—You should have built I need to underline that I do know a fair bit Wesley Vale. about this particular industry. Having lived in Senator WOODLEY—That is certainly an western Queensland for quite a few years, I issue that should be debated as well I think, was aware of the cypress pine industry there Senator Sherry. If the RFAs were truly about and of the important contribution it made and guaranteeing jobs, then this should not have makes to regional economies in that area. I happened. It would also not have happened if point out that cypress pine is one of those the industry in the area was sustainable. If the resources which regenerates without any help industry was based in plantations it may have from human beings. In some places it grows stood a chance, as there is little doubt that a like weeds but, nevertheless, it is a very good Japanese decision to source all chips from timber for building houses—and, I might add, plantation areas within a decade has had a for building churches. On one occasion I built significant impact on the decision to close. a church at Injune out of cypress pine that Events in Western Australia have reached was supplied by a grazier who supplied all of high farce, with decisions being made and the pine for the church and then a double remade against political tidal waves. Workers quantity to pay for the sawmilling. So I have have as little security from day to day as some experience of that. Western Australians do about the security of However, in his articles in the Courier-Mail their old-growth forests from woodchip mills. Tony Koch pointed out the threat to some of Western Australia has shown us conclusively those regional areas in Queensland because of that there is no certainty with RFAs in terms the possibility of the loss of the cypress pine of conservation of jobs. The bill, which resource to small sawmillers. That was not potentially exposes the Commonwealth to because of the RFA so much as through the huge compensation payouts, has no guarantee process of the national competition policy, Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7067 which would force the industry to throw open tected. Australians, I am sure, would not now the resource to public tender, and the possi- tolerate the logging of Fraser Island any more bility of large corporations moving in and than they would the wet tropics, and these taking over that resource and the small towns places now attract hundreds of millions of losing the employment which was provided. dollars in tourism revenue. The RFAs, I In his article, he points out: would argue, have the potential to destroy Cypress harvesting generates $30 million annual- infant and prospective tourist areas for a ly, and the State Government is paid almost $3 short-term—disgracefully underpriced—return. million in royalties from the sawmillers. In my home state of Victoria, the state Just let me put on the record: government sold timber from native forests for just 9c a tonne. The towns which would be affected by any closure of local mills include Inglewood, In terms of opportunity costs, the Demo- Millmerran, Cecil Plains, Chinchilla, Miles, Ta- crats predict that the tourism industry will be room, Wandoan, Injune, Roma, Augathella, one of the biggest losers in the RFA process. Mitchell, Mungallala, Dulacca-North and Surat. There was evidence in Western Australia that He says that the pessimism in those townships the tourism industry has been ignored by the about local ownership and control of the WA RFA process as well, and their concerns western Queensland cypress industry is about the RFA are well catalogued. Another reflected also in the departure of key staff witness suggested, not unreasonably, that the from the industry. I want to underline in my tourism industry could equally argue for contribution tonight the concern I have for the compensation under the RFAs for the oppor- loss of jobs in the timber industry—although tunity cost of areas that would be logged and I would give different solutions perhaps to mined. some of the ones given by Senator Sherry— Briefly, in terms of other forest uses, the because I am concerned also for all of those Wombat Forest Society presented evidence small towns which employ people in this that beekeepers would be significantly disad- industry. vantaged. They also pointed out that a large Senator ALLISON (Victoria) (9.43 p.m.)— number of people rely on high quality water I rise to speak on the Regional Forest Agree- through that forest region, which will be ments Bill 1998. Other Democrats colleagues detrimentally affected by logging, and that have spoken or will speak on the issues of irrigators downstream would also be negative- jobs, plantations and the environment and on ly affected. Logging continues in the Otways, legal issues, and I will address other less even though many coupes are in water attach- considered forest values. The Democrats ments. The evidence is clear that clear-felling believe the RFA process discriminates unfair- reduces water production very substantially ly against other important cultural values and and for many years to come. Geelong’s water social and economic benefits provided by supply depends on the Otways. The dams are native forests in this country. Forests account very low at present and we cannot afford to for an increasing amount of tourist dollars lose the water generating capacity of this or and, as a new market area is developed, more any other forest. areas open up, providing more value adding It is not clear that compensation has been to tourist experiences. Not only is the tourism ruled out for parties affected by RFAs and, industry a significant growth industry in again, perhaps there is potential for future native forest areas; it has a far better multipli- compensation claims on the Commonwealth er effect than the woodchip industry, and its as a result of these processes. The Wombat services are delivered on site in the local area, State Forest is quite close to Melbourne and rather than exported as a basic product. I think it is fair to say it is highly valued by It is hard to imagine an Australia without the surrounding communities. It was once some of our most significant natural areas, selectively and sustainably logged by foresters and very often they do not enter our psyches who are now appalled by the clear-felling as important until after they have been pro- taking place, as are those thousands of people 7068 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 who visit the area on a regular basis. The ADJOURNMENT question is whether it is responsible for the The PRESIDENT—Order! It being 9.50 Senate to vote on legislation that will certain- p.m., I propose the question: ly destroy areas of huge income potential which have the ability to create sustainable That the Senate do now adjourn. jobs in local areas, maintain water quality and Information Technology: Access generate wealth in return for one-off destruc- tion and export of a primary product. The Senator PAYNE (New South Wales) (9.50 Democrats simply do not believe so. p.m.)—In the book The Clever Country? The bill removes the capacity for the Australia’s Digital Future, Daniel Petre and Commonwealth to require export licences for David Harrington explore the capacity of hardwood woodchips and other unprocessed Australia to meet the challenges of an inevi- wood from an RFA region. Even the CFMEU, tably technological future. They comment not normally noted for being uncompromising particularly on the capacity of the Australian protectors of native forest areas, disagrees populace to utilise the ‘online revolution’ to with this provision of the bill and says that their advantage. They speak of the need for export controls should remain. The hundreds Australia to become ‘an information capital, of thousands of people who have participated not an information outpost’. Clearly, Australia in forest marches, and written to state and must use the information revolution to its federal governments over the last decade all greatest advantage, but how best to do that is think that woodchipping native forests has a often a matter for debate. significant impact on the environment. I have previously addressed issues relating Not only will large and ecologically signifi- to the IT revolution and information technol- cant areas be sanctioned for woodchipping, ogy in general, and most recently discussed with no environmental regulatory control; the the particular challenges for those in rural and Australian taxpayer will clearly be paying regional Australia in terms of their particular dearly for this devastation. Woodchipping route on the information superhighway. I have does not make money; it costs money, and also spoken, not in conjunction with this but plenty of it. In my home state of Victoria, in other areas, of the work of the NSW five years ago the state made $40 million out Liberal Women’s Council and Liberal of native forest woodchip export, but it cost Women’s Forum and the important efforts $90 million in the process. That means Vic- that they have put in in many policy areas. In torians paid $50 million to have our forests continuing to recognise their efforts, I want to chipped in just one year. put on record the success of their most recent endeavour, an annual rural rendezvous held in It seems to me that state governments have Mittagong in the New South Wales Southern a conflict of interest with regard to RFAs. Highlands which I attended a week or so ago. The RFA process will be mostly controlled by This year’s theme ‘The Bush Telegraph for state governments who have a vested and the 21st Century’ targeted questions of infor- financial short-term interest in the outcomes. mation technology for non-metropolitan The RFA agreements have been controlled regions. The range of speakers included Tom and negotiated, and will be managed by Worthington, who is the immediate past sections of state governments, and serious president of the Computer Society; Fay questions have been raised about their ability Lamont, a finalist in the Telstra Business- to provide objective assessment and regula- woman of the Year Awards in 1998; Meredith tion. One lot of evidence pointed to the Laverty, a board member of the Internet Western Australian EPA bulletin No. 912 Industry Association; and Dr Wendy Craik, which produced a landmark report stating that the Executive Director of the National Far- there was a significant conflict of interest in mers Federation. The benefit of the meeting the Department of Conservation and Land was in raising policy issues in the areas of Management— telecommunications and IT that need to be Debate interrupted. addressed, particularly for those Australians Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7069 outside metropolitan areas who are, in many two levels. Firstly, we need to encourage ways, at a disadvantage in terms of IT devel- women to pursue career opportunities in this opments. area. The Women in Technology International Issues of access, speed and resources are Foundation, based in the US, has this firmly very real stumbling blocks for those in rural in its sights. Founded in 1989, it is dedicated and regional areas who wish to join the to advancing women in technology. Its agenda information superhighway. For women, the includes increasing the number of women in challenges can be still greater. In addressing executive roles in technology and technology these issues, the organisers of the meeting—in based companies and encouraging young particular, the Vice-Presidents of the women to choose careers in science and Women’s Council, Robyn Parker and Juliet technology. In Australia women in IT are Arkwright—were focused on matters of developing their own support networks. crucial importance not only to women but The online publication Geekgirl has been in also to the broader Australian community. Of operation for some time. It is providing most interest to the meeting was the interac- support for women interested in IT by com- tion of women and IT. On the one hand, the municating with those women who might challenge is to ensure that women have access count themselves as cyber buffs. It started its to IT developments and can utilise them in life as a comic and went on to become an their daily lives. On the other hand, it is also immensely popular e-zine and even a more about ensuring that women take advantage of old-fashioned magazine. It is also important the employment boom in this area, so that the to encourage younger women towards IT IT industry is not just ‘jobs for the boys’. careers and we can start this process at a very Some of the international trends in this early age. In fact, in the United States Girl regard are of concern. The percentage of Scouts can gain a proficiency badge in tech- women holding technical jobs in the United nology and the Internet. In Australia, our States stands at just 28 per cent. In Australia, Brownies can pursue a badge in computers. the estimated percentage of women working One of the most important issues that I in IT is similar. When you combine that with think we need to consider as a nation amongst other US indicators, where female enrolments the issues relating to information technology in computer science degrees are dropping, that is that of the information poor. While we may low level is of concern, especially when you recognise the impact of the Internet on econo- reflect on the trend over recent decades of mies, employment and other areas, there is increasing numbers of women entering the growing concern that this impact may not be work force. This trend has been responsible equal across contemporary society. Informa- for much of the employment growth over that tion poverty is about those in our society who same period. Recently, Phil Ruthven, Exec- do not have access to or an understanding of utive Chairperson of IBIS Business Informa- IT developments and advantages. There is a tion, made the point on ABC’s Lateline that body of thought which predicts that, as IT 30 per cent of the jobs created since 1965 developments continue to sweep the world, have arisen out of the increase in the number we run the risk of creating a whole new class of working women who now require other of underprivileged. Because of the speed of people to do the work often traditionally done communication and information access inher- by women in the home. An area like child ent in information technology developments, care is a prime example. It is important to there is even concern that this trend may note this because the IT industry is clearly heighten gaps in our society between rich and distinct from this trend. IT is an area where poor rather than alleviating the divide, as women are not enjoying an automatic foot- many would hope. hold in its growth. Information poverty is visible at two levels: Ensuring that women are able to take at an international or macro level and at a advantage of this employment direction must community or micro level. At an international be done consciously and deliberately, and at level, there is a serious concern that IT 7070 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 advantages are accessible primarily to West- While I have a computer with Internet ern developed nations and not to those who access in my office in Parramatta, here at might benefit most from IT implementation. Parliament House and at home, most rural and Recent research in Information Technology regional Australians, particularly women, do for Development referred to the challenge of not have this range of access. For many of ensuring that IT is adopted equally across the them, their home is their office and, if they do globe. Current indications are that developed not pay for the access themselves, there is no nations, like Australia, are most advanced, but other option. underdeveloped nations have not been able to The capacity of information technology to adopt IT as easily. The comparison is in fact alleviate social divides is something on which staggering. In the January edition of Tech- we must focus. A special report in last nology Review, reference was made to the Saturday’s Sydney Morning Herald noted how spending of the United States on IT compared young residents of Newcastle are using the with other countries. For every $US1 spent in Internet to organise significant events and Bangladesh, for example, $3,000 is spent in help revitalise their city. One contributor said: the United States. The Internet has changed the dynamics of living I think this is an area in which Australia in a regional area. can play a leadership role, both in our region They went on to say that it had enabled and across the globe more generally, but not people to remain in Newcastle after finishing at the expense of those Australians who might university rather than automatically going to unwittingly fall into the category of informa- Sydney or Melbourne. This work is a remind- tion poor at a micro level—for example, those er of how the Internet can act as a catalyst for people in regional areas; women, as I have overcoming inequalities rather than reinforc- already referred to; those with little education; ing them. those on low incomes; and those from a non- In considering the preparedness of Austral- English speaking background. We have to ian governments to deal with advances in ensure that those on the inside, so to speak, technology, Petre and Harrington contem- do not gain advantage at the exclusion of plated the design of this very building. They others in the Australian community. Our asked: challenge is to ensure that new technologies do not reinforce existing inequities and, where . . . whether, given the communications revolution, possible, alleviate them where they exist. the architects would have changed the design of their building if undertaking the project today. A couple of weeks ago, an article in the Such hindsight is valuable but impossible to Australian Financial Review highlighted many attain. In a sense, however, we are now in an of the difficulties. It cited, again, American equivalent position with regard to the devel- statistics indicating a significant information opment of the IT industry in Australia. We divide, with the lowest users of the Internet in are at the designing stage and it is important the United States being rural and inner city that we have the best possible structure—one Hispanic households and inner city African- that assists development, whilst ensuring that American households. Indications are that the no Australians are falling through the cracks. disparity between these groups and others is Brown, Mr Leo growing. In the United States and Australia, this is real poverty. It is about people who Senator O’BRIEN (Tasmania) (9.59 cannot pay home phone bills, let alone buy p.m.)—Today we quite appropriately paid our mobile phones and computers for themselves respects to three former members of the and their children. The disparity in the Aus- Australian parliament who had recently passed tralian context is similar. Rural Australians do away. Tonight I want to put on record some not have the multiplicity or perhaps even the comments about a friend and colleague of luxury of access to the Net that many of us mine who passed away on 26 July this year enjoy. at the age of 75. His name was Leo Brown. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7071

Leo began life in May 1924. He was the ers—waterfront watchmen, a job that now third son of parents Bob and Ruby. I believe does not really exist. They were people who he was born in Hobart and educated at the maintained the security of vessels tied up Goulburn Street School and for a short while alongside the wharf in ports around Tasmania. at Hobart Technical School. I gathered from Leo proceeded to build that organisation to my conversations with Leo that he greatly represent a great many different callings, enjoyed his early life at school and formed particularly cleaners, in the area of Hobart. He close and lasting relationships not only with did that in the face of much adversity and his brothers and sisters but with many of his went on to become the secretary of the union classmates as well. But these were tough until 1972. He then became a full-time paid times for a young boy growing up in Hobart. president. He continued in that role until he Due to the toughness of living in Depression retired in 1989 and remained president until years, Leo needed to leave school at the age 1990. He subsequently became a vice- of 12. I am given to understand that Leo’s president of that organisation and an exec- teachers endeavoured to have him continue, utive member of the Amalgamated Liquor, but this was not possible. Leo had to become Hospitality and Miscellaneous Workers one of the breadwinners for his family in Union, a position which I believe he held up those very difficult years leading up to the to the time of his death. Second World War. Leo was a great activist in the trade union On 5 August 1942, Leo enlisted in the movement and in the labour movement. He RAAF. He was probably at the youngest was active in the Tasmanian Trades and possible age to do so. He lost his mother Labour Council and a contemporary of Sena- during the war. On discharge from the RAAF tor Harradine, who was, during Leo’s involve- at the conclusion of the war, he took up a ment, the secretary for an extended period of serviceman’s retraining position with a tailor the Tasmanian Trades and Labour Council. I and became a tailor’s apprentice. He liked think it had been the Hobart Trades and that work, and the skills that he learnt served Labour Council earlier. Leo was not only him well in later life, but his master informed interested in industrial affairs; he was a long- him that there was not a future in tailoring time activist in the peace movement, and he and advised him to take other employment. maintained that activity following his retire- Leo went to work in the printer area of the ment when he continued his involvement in Hobart Mercury. He worked there for a few an organisation known as the Tasmanian years but believed that his advocacy of the Peace Trust, for which he was treasurer from cause of his fellow work mates was not going 1994 until 30 June this year. to lead him to have a promising career at the He also played a pivotal role in the estab- Mercury. He applied for, and obtained, a lishment of the Community Mediation Service position on the Hobart waterfront as a water- in that state. His tenacity and his ability to side worker. lobby politicians were extremely valuable in In 1958, Leo was involved in the champion- securing the financial security of the com- ing of the cause of organised labour on the munity mediation organisation from the waterfront as part of the Waterside Workers, Keating government. I might say that, during a case that went to the courts and became his lifetime, Leo was honoured for his efforts nationally famous about the rights of organi- and his life’s work with life memberships of sations and the way they spend their mon- his union, the Liquor, Hospitality and eys—the Hursey case. During that year, he Miscellaneous Workers Union, the Tasmanian was approached by the then General Secretary Trades and Labour Council and, of course, the of the Federated Miscellaneous Workers Australian Labor Party. Leo was also hon- Union, Ray Gietzelt, and asked to take a paid oured by the Australian community and made position as the secretary of that organisation a member of the Order of Australia in 1988. in Hobart. At that time, that organisation There are a great many people who make represented only a very small group of work- important contributions to this nation. As I 7072 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 said earlier, we recognised some of those President, Samuel Bendt; and the many today. I think it is important that, as occurs officials who responded to this tragic event on many occasions, members of this com- with outstanding sensitivity. I should also like munity who spend their lives working within to put on record my thanks for the exemplary the community, without necessarily receiving manner in which Australian officials repre- their due rewards, should be recognised in sented their government and the support they this place. That is the purpose that I wanted gave to the survivors and the families of the to rise today. victims. Ambassadors Paul O’Sullivan, Les I was privileged in being able to speak at Luck and Geoff Raby all went to Interlaken Leo’s funeral on 30 July this year. Leo’s three and they and their officers provided comfort living sons, Dana, Greg and Lian, also spoke to the bereaved relatives. Particular mention and, I think, continue the tradition of forth- should be made of Consul-General Malcolm right speech that Leo would have established Skelly, who established an office there im- for them. I can say that Leo would have been mediately on learning of the accident and who very proud of their efforts and those of worked tirelessly, frequently without sleep, Pauline, his wife. Leo married Pauline in June over the next nine days. 1949, their marriage having continued for just Those who have experienced the loss of a over 50 years. Pauline, who remained one of child have some understanding of the grief his most loyal supporters for all of his life, that this entails, but few would have felt the has been left with the legacy of having lived helplessness associated with the sudden, unex- with a great man. Pauline herself, in my view, pected tragic death of their loved ones on the is a very great woman who, to a wonderful other side of the world, in a foreign country. and valuable extent, has contributed to the Sir William Deane spoke at the service on whole of Leo’s life since they met in 1947, behalf of the Australian people and made a and no tribute to Leo would be complete moving tribute which captured the emotions without giving the credit to Pauline which is of all those present. I believe it should be so due. recorded in Hansard and seek leave to have Can I say that it has been my privilege to it incorporated. have known Leo, as indeed it has been the Leave granted. privilege of many people. At Leo’s funeral The speech read as follows— there were somewhere between 400 and 500 people—people from all walks of life: mem- ADDRESS BY SIR WILLIAM DEANE bers of parliament, trade unionists, his col- GOVERNOR-GENERAL OF THE leagues and his family. It was sad in that Leo COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA FOR had lost his brother a matter of days before he THE VICTIMS OF THE CANYONING died. I think the world has been made a better TRAGEDY INTERLAKEN, SWITZERLAND place for having had the presence of Leo THURSDAY, 5 AUGUST 1999 Brown in it. We are gathered in great sadness to mourn the deaths of the 21 young people who were killed in Interlaken: Ecumenical Service the canyoning accident near here, last week. They Senator HERRON (Queensland—Minister came from five nations Switzerland, the United Kingdom, South Africa, New Zealand and Austral- for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ia. Their loss is a profound tragedy for their Affairs) (10.09 p.m.)—Last Thursday in families and friends who are in the thoughts and Switzerland I represented the government at the prayers of all of us at this service today. We the ecumenical service for those who lost pray with them for their loved ones who have died. their lives at Interlaken. The previous Wed- And we also pray that, in the words of our Lord nesday I met with the survivors and Swiss (Matthew Ch.5, v.4), they will truly be comforted. officials. Fourteen of the victims of the tragedy came from Australia. Collectively, their deaths represent I would like to put on the record my thanks probably the greatest single peacetime loss of to the President of Switzerland, Madam young Australians outside our own country. That Dreifuss; Vice President Adolph Ogi; Canton loss affects not only their families and friends, Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7073 dreadful though that is. It also deeply affects our Yesterday, my wife and I, together with family nation as a whole and all of its people. members and fiends of the Australian victims visited the canyon where the accident occurred. I have, as Governor-General of Australia, with There, in memory of each of the 14 young people Senator John Herron of our Government come here who came from our homeland we cast into the on behalf of Australia and of all Australians, to Saxetenbach 14 sprigs of wattle, our national floral mourn them, to be with and to sympathise with emblem, which we had brought with us from their family members and friends who are here, and Government House in Canberra. Somehow, we felt to demonstrate how important they were to their that was bringing a little of Australia to them. homeland. For us, the tragedy is somehow made worse by the fact that they died so far away from It was also in a symbolic way, helping to bring the homes the families, the friends and the land them home to our county. That is not to suggest they loved so well. that their spirit and their memory will not linger forever here in Switzerland, at the place where they Australia and Switzerland are on opposite sides of died. Rather, it is to suggest that a little part of the globe. Yet, in this age of modern telecommuni- Switzerland has become, and will always be, to cations, one effect of the disaster has been to bring some extent, part of Australia. As it will also be our two countries closer together. On every night part of other countries outside Switzerland—New since the accident, Switzerland has been in every Zealand, South Africa and the United Kingdom— Australian home that has been tuned into the from whence they came. television news, as well as on the radio, in all our It is still winter at home. But the golden wattles are newspapers and other media outlets. Conversely, coming into bloom. Just as these young men and the fact that two-thirds of those who died came women were in the flower of their youth. And from Australia has given rise to an increased when we are back in Australia we will remember awareness here in Switzerland of my country and how the flowers and the perfume and the pollen of its people. their and our homeland were carried down the river Switzerland has, of course, itself experienced the where they died to Lake Brienz in this beautiful shock and sorrow of overseas tragedy in the past. country on the far side of the world. Perhaps that has heightened the sympathy and May they all rest with God. understanding which it has shown in recent days. I have already had the privilege of meeting with Senator HERRON—On behalf of the you, Madam President, and with Vice-President Ogi government, I wish to join with Sir William and exchanging condolences. I would, on this Deane in expressing my sincere condolences solemn occasion, like to express to the Swiss to all of those who are bereaved. authorities and to the people of Switzerland, particularly the people of the Wilderswil and Financial Counselling Services Interlaken regions, our abiding gratitude for all the help and assistance they have provided in the Senator GIBBS (Queensland) (10.11 aftermath of the tragedy. In particular, I pay tribute p.m.)—I rise tonight to speak about the need to the bravery of all those who worked in the for extra funding for financial counselling rescue efforts. We thank them for their skill and services throughout Australia. The coalition dedication. I also particularly mention the compe- tence, the compassion and the kindness of all who government has not increased funding for have helped to look after the survivors and the these extremely important services for the last relatives who have come here. three years. Over that period these services have received the same allocation of funds, The young people—certainly the young Austral- even though the Central Queensland Financial ians—who have been killed all shared the spirit of adventure, the joy of living, the exuberance and the Counselling Service last year had its budget delight of youth. cut by $5,000 for some unknown reason. That spirit inspired their lives, and lit the lives of Financial counselling services were estab- all who knew than, until the end. We remember lished under the last Labor government in that and so many other wonderful things about response to the community’s need for such them as we mourn them and grieve for young lives services. The Labor government in its last cut so tragically short. And all of us feel and share budget allocated an additional $2 million in in their collective loss. For these 21 young men and funding to Commonwealth financial counsel- women were part—a shining part—of our humani- ty. As John Donne wrote, "No man is an island". ling services, but the coalition government Anyone’s "death diminishes" us all because we are withdrew those additional funds in its first all "involved in mankind". budget. 7074 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

Financial counselling services are needed creditors are quite often unrealistic in their more now than ever before. The workload of expectations of anyone on a pension. Many of the services has increased to a point where them all too quickly push personal bankruptcy they are being forced to cut back on the level as the best outcome. I ask: for whom is it the of services they provide so they do not have best outcome? One could say that, for the to turn away anyone who comes to them in creditors, this is a quick-fix solution. They the midst of a financial crisis. The services can claim their loss through their insurance or are in dire need of the allocation of extra use it as a tax break. What about the personal money to pay for extra services that are trauma these people experience and the long- desperately needed by people in the com- term personal humiliation they feel? munity. As the struggle for financial survival be- Another alarming fact is the increase in the comes more and more difficult, the number of number of applications for personal bankrupt- people who find themselves on the verge of cy. Almost 30 per cent of these applications financial ruin is constantly on the rise. Extra are coming from the small business communi- services are needed in regional communities ty. The coalition government claim to be great where people do not have access to organisa- supporters of small business, but the amount tions such as the Smith Family, the Salvation of small business bankruptcies is very disturb- Army or St Vincent de Paul. People in these ing indeed, and this is an additional service areas rely heavily on services provided by the that the financial counselling service has had counsellors of the Commonwealth financial to pick up. Fortunately, the current Bankrupt- counselling services. These services are cy Act ensures that the Insolvency Trustee becoming the most crucial of services in Service of Australia contacts the Common- today’s society. wealth Financial Counselling Service before any bankruptcy is processed. At least this Lately in the media there have been reports enables people to find out whether there is an about the amount of money that Australians alternative measure that could be taken before are spending on gambling. Unfortunately, it they formally and irretrievably go bankrupt. is becoming a huge problem for people in our community and an added workload for finan- The fact is that, whether the problem is due cial counsellors. This is an added problem to a breakdown in a relationship, a loss of that they would rather not have. And why employment, a business deal gone wrong or wouldn’t gambling be a problem? Everywhere a death in the family, the demand for the you go these days you bump into a poker service the financial counsellors provide is machine. In Queensland not only do we have constantly on the increase. There is no doubt casinos and clubs for gambling purposes but that the financial counselling services provide also every pub has numerous poker machines. an invaluable service to the community. The I know this is a great revenue earner for the fact is that they are suffering financial hard- states, but unfortunately gambling is becom- ships of their own due to the lack of adequate ing a national problem. funding by this government. These hardships Financial counselling services have reported include having to beg other organisations for that there has been a significant increase in postage stamps, stationery and even office the number of aged pensioners who are using furniture. The employees find themselves in their facilities because of credit card debt. It a situation where, when the funding runs out, is extremely difficult for these people to ask they are unable to draw wages. But the most for help. By the time they actually contact a severe hardship is the reduction in the ser- financial counsellor, they already are at the vices that they are able to provide to the crisis stage. Most elderly people have never people in their community at a time of finan- had to rely on credit card debt before but, due cial crisis. There is no additional funding for to the hardships they now face trying to make these or any other supplementary costs that ends meet, more and more are finding them- may be associated with the running of these selves on the verge of a financial crisis. The services. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7075

The Central Queensland counsellor did not the minister could find a few extra dollars to draw wages for 2½ months because her funds rectify this situation. Maybe this situation has ran out in May. This year’s funding did not not been brought to the minister’s attention. arrive until 27 July because of computer I hope that this may go a little way to allevi- problems in Treasury. But if you ring this ating that problem. particular financial counselling service on any Saturday or Sunday, you will invariably find Republic Referendum Committee: Report the counsellor working to keep up with the Senator ABETZ (Tasmania—Parliamentary enormous demand for her services. The Secretary to the Minister for Defence) (10.20 service provider in Townsville has an area of p.m.)—Today the Joint Select Committee on coverage that spans 200 kilometres to the the Republic Referendum tabled its advisory north, 200 kilometres to the south and 1,000 report on the constitutional alterations that kilometres to the west, and they do not were proposed by the Constitutional Conven- receive any additional funding for travel. tion and the legislation which the government Surely the government cannot expect that the drafted in response to that. It is now a matter people who happen to live 1,000 kilometres of public record that I dissented in relation to west of Townsville who find themselves on the committee’s report. Unfortunately, this the verge of financial ruin should be asked to afternoon there was not sufficient time for me fund their own travel to Townsville in order to be able to set out some of the reasons. I to receive counselling on how to cut costs. commence my comments this evening by This hardly seems like an acceptable arrange- congratulating the chair of the committee, ment. Bob Charles, on his chairmanship, and also the staff of the secretariat, led by Claressa The most difficult realisation that all of the Surtees. I believe the secretariat did a very centres are faced with is that they are no good job in a difficult time frame and with a longer able to meet the increased demand for very large committee of some 18 people. their services. Unfortunately, they are forced The committee made a recommendation in to change their model of service delivery. relation to the long title. That recommenda- Most of the clients cannot even see the tion was one that I strenuously opposed financial counsellor face to face; they have to because it sought to suggest that the word relay their personal circumstances to someone ‘Australian’ ought be placed in front of the over the telephone. This situation is totally word ‘President’ whilst not using the word unacceptable. ‘Australian’ or ‘Australia’ to describe the This government seems to be ignoring the position of Queen and Governor-General. The work of the financial counselling services in only reason, in my respectful submission to this country and, worse still, ignoring the the Senate and also to the people of Australia, reasons why their workload has increased to why one would seek to do that is to try to get such an alarming degree. With the introduc- some cheap jingoistic support for the proposal tion of the SACS award, all counsellors are that is to be put before the Australian people. now on incremental pay increases. With flat- The fact that Her Majesty is the Queen of lined funding, it is not taken into account that Australia is supported by a letter that hap- wages continue to rise along with all of the pened to cross my desk today from none other other expenses, such as phones, rent and than the Hon. E.G. Whitlam AC, QC, the electricity. The budget has not risen accord- former Labor Prime Minister of this coun- ingly. It is a simple equation: without any try—a letter dated 27 July 1999 to the chair increase in funding, the costs will continue to of the select committee. Whilst Mr Whitlam climb and the level of service will have to was arguing a different point, he makes this decline. I think it is time the minister took a very telling point in the last paragraph of his good, hard look at the financial counselling letter: services in this country and the fact that more If the Constitution is not altered, Australia’s head and more people are driven, through econom- of state will in due course be— ic circumstances, to use these services. Maybe and listen to this— 7076 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

Charles III, by the Grace of God King of Australia. would be a very workable minimalist model, And he goes on to say ‘not Charles III, by the and it would be fair to say that if his model grace of God King of the Commonwealth of at the Constitutional Convention had gained Australia’. He was wanting to make that point the support of the Australians for a constitu- in relation to the insertion of the words tional monarchy that would now be the model ‘Commonwealth of Australia’ in relation to that we would be voting for on 6 November, the President. So even Gough Whitlam, one because the model we have before us for of the most avowed republicans in this coun- consideration was not supported by a majority try, acknowledges that the monarch is the of delegates at the Constitutional Convention. Queen or King of Australia. The Governor- Sure, it was the most preferred option, but it General, Sir William Deane, I think would be failed to gain a 50 per cent majority of sup- very surprised if it were suggested that he was port from the Constitutional Convention. I anything other than Australian and that his believe Mr McGarvie’s model, being the most position was indeed anything other than minimalist approach to a republic which Australian. The position of Governor-General would have preserved the essential safety of Australia is set up in the Australian Consti- valve that the monarch provides in our sys- tution, drafted by Australians for Australians tem, would have gained overwhelming ma- and voted for by Australians so that it became jority support if those who supported the the Constitution. Therefore, to try to somehow current system would have voted for it as the differentiate the republic as being distinctly lesser of the evils in their eyes that were Australian yet referring to the Queen and the being proposed. Governor-General as somehow not having There is another matter that unfortunately unique Australian qualities was, in my con- needs to be dealt with. There were some sidered view, disingenuous. disingenuous leaks to the media suggesting I am glad to see that the proposed question that the committee’s views were unanimous. that the Prime Minister announced late this The only people who rejoiced in the afternoon removes the word ‘Australian’ as a committee’s proposed question were those descriptor for the term ‘President’ and, once supporting the republic model proposed and again, puts into the question the method of being promoted by Mr Turnbull. Whilst I was appointment of the President, because it is somewhat constrained before the committee fundamentally important that the people of had tabled its report in being able to say Australia realise what they will be voting for. where I stood on the issue, I was only able to Not only will they be voting for a republic; say that it was speculation that it was a they will also be voting for the type of repub- unanimous report. However, today when the lic that Australia might become. For those report was tabled in the House of Representa- who are republicans to not want to put before tives a speaker indicated to the House that the Australian people the type of republic that there was not one dissenting voice when the is being suggested is tantamount to an admis- final form of words of the proposed recom- sion that the model is flawed. Indeed, that is mendation was put to the committee and then my view, having had the opportunity of even after written dissents were taken into listening to witnesses, reading the Hansard account only one member of this committee and giving this matter very serious consider- has formally dissented from the agreed long ation. title. Let me say at this stage that I, in principle, That is simply incorrect. Anybody reading am a republican. I support the symbolism of the report and the dissenting reports will note Australia having all its constitutional arrange- that the honourable member for Wannon, ments within its own boundaries and within David Hawker, and I signed a joint dissenting its own sphere of influence. I was very much statement. It was very clear that it was a joint impressed by the former Labor government dissenting statement because it is headed appointed Governor of Victoria, Richard ‘Dissenting report: Senator the Hon. Eric McGarvie, in his proposal. I believe that Abetz and Mr David Hawker MP’. At the Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7077 end, there is the double signature block for Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 139. both me and Mr Hawker. Might I say that Australian National University Act—Statute No. divulging the private operations of the com- 257—Faculties (The Faculties) Statute 1998. mittee in relation to the unanimity or alleged Australian Prudential Regulation Authority Act— unanimity was inappropriate, in my submis- Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 141. sion, but, given the circumstances, I feel Australian Sports Drug Agency Act— obliged to place on record the circumstances Australian Sports Drug Agency Regulations— of that. Australian Sports Drug Agency Drug Testing Yes, there was a committee meeting. I was (Scheme A) Orders 1999. unable to attend it. However, I did attend via Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 159. a telephone hook-up for two hours. I was then Banking Act— unfortunately required to go elsewhere to host Determination of Restricted Expression in a lunch that was for the Prime Minister and relation to a Financial Business, dated 28 June Cabinet in the City of Hobart. Before calling 1999. off on the telephone, I indicated to the com- Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 142. mittee that I had other concerns and that I would raise them at 2 p.m. The committee, Census and Statistics Act—Australian Bureau of however, finished deliberations at 1.57 p.m., Statistics—Statement No. 2 of 1999. three minutes before 2 p.m., and therefore I Civil Aviation Act—Civil Aviation Regula- was unable to put my point of view. While I tions—Civil Aviation Orders— accept that the committee should not have Amendment of section 82, dated 30 July 1999. been held back in relation to my inability to Directive—Part— be there, to try to claim that somehow that 105, dated 24 [3], 25, 28, 29 [2] and 30 clothed the committee report with unanimity June; and 1 [11] and 2 [2] July 1999. is, quite frankly, disingenuous and misleading. 106, dated 9 June; and 2 [2] July 1999. I take great exception to that and the fact that the workings of the committee were publicly 107, dated 30 June; and 2 July 1999. divulged. Exemption Nos CASA 16/1999, CASA 19/1999, CASA 21/1999-CASA 24/1999 and Senate adjourned at 10.31 p.m. CASA 26/1999. DOCUMENTS Instrument Nos CASA 820/99, CASA 825/99, CASA 847/99, CASA 862/99, CASA 867/99 Tabling and CASA 884/99. The following documents were tabled by Commonwealth Authorities and Companies the Clerk: Act—Notice pursuant to paragraph 45(1)(a)— Establishment of ComLand Limited. Aged Care Act—Determinations under section— Corporations Act—Regulations—Statutory Rules 44—ACA Ch. 3 No. 2/1999-ACA Ch. 3 No. 1999 No. 143. 11/1999. Crimes Act—Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 48—ACA Ch. 3 No. 12/1999. No. 156. 52—ACA Ch. 3 No. 13/1999. Customs Act—Regulations—Statutory Rules Apple and Pear Export Charge Act, Apple and 1999 Nos 131 and 149. Pear Levy Act, Australian Horticultural Corpora- Dairy Produce Levy (No. 1) Act—Regulations— tion Act and Horticultural Policy Council Act— Statutory Rules 1999 No. 124. Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 158. Defence Act— Australian Capital Territory (Planning and Land Management) Act—National Capital Plan— Determinations under section 58B—Defence Determinations 1999/25-1999/30. Amendment No. 24. Defence Force Remuneration Tribunal— Approval of Amendment No. 24. Determinations Nos 9 and 10 of 1999. Australian Hearing Services Act— Defence Act, Naval Defence Act and Air Force Declared Hearing Services Amendment Deter- Act—Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. mination 1999 (No. 1). 152. 7078 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

Endangered Species Protection Act—Declaration Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 Nos 132 under section 18 amending Schedule 1— and 155. 99/ESP5. Statements for period 1 January to 30 June Export Control Act—Export Control (Orders) 1999 under section— Regulations—Livestock Export (Merino) Orders 48B [9]. (Amendment)—Export Control Orders No. 1 of 1999. 345 [7] Export Inspection (Establishment Registration 351 [28]. Charges) Act—Regulations—Statutory Rules 417 [78]. 1999 No. 148. Military Superannuation and Benefits Act— Farm Household Support Act— Military Superannuation and Benefits Amend- ment Trust Deed 1999 (No. 2). Restart Advice Scheme Amendment 1999 (No. 1). Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters Act— Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 150. Restart Re-establishment Grant Scheme Amendment 1999 (No. 1). National Environment Protection Council Act— National Environment Protection (Used Packag- Financial Management and Accountability Act— ing Materials) Measure, dated 2 July 1999, Determination No. 1999/01—Centrelink accompanied by the impact statement, summary Special Account. of submissions and the Council’s responses to Financial Management and Accountability submissions. Orders (Amendment) 1999 (No. 2). National Health Act— Financial Sector Reform (Amendments and Determination under Schedule 1—IHS7/1999- Transitional Provisions) Act (No. 1)— IHS9/1999. Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 144. Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 140. Financial Sector (Transfers of Business) Act— Native Title Act—Regulations—Statutory Rules Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 145. 1999 No. 151. Fisheries Management Act—Regulations— Patents Act—Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 Statutory Rules 1999 No. 130. No. 154. Health Insurance Act—Regulations—Statutory Primary Industries (Excise) Levies Act— Rules 1999 No. 157. Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 123. Hearing Services Administration Act— Rice Levy Specification (No. 1) 1999. Hearing Services Amendment Rules of Con- Primary Industries (Excise) Levies Act and duct 1999 (No. 1). Primary Industries Levies and Charges Collection Hearing Services (Participants in the Voucher Act—Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. System) Amendment Determination 1999 (No. 119. 1). Primary Industries Levies and Charges Collection Hearing Services Voucher Amendment Rules Act—Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 Nos 1999 (No. 1). 120-122. Income Tax Assessment Act 1997—Regulations— Private Health Insurance Incentives Act— Statutory Rules 1999 No. 147. Private Health Insurance Incentive (Form and Interstate Road Transport Act—Regulations— Content of Claim) Determination—PHIIA 15- Statutory Rules 1999 No. 133. 10(2)/1/1999. Life Insurance Act— Private Health Insurance Incentive (Form and Content of Notification) Determination— Prudential Rules Nos 34, 36-46 and 48. PHIIA 11-20(2)/1/1999. Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 146. Product Rulings PR 1999/72-1999/88. Migration Act— Public Service Act— Direction under section 499—Direction— Public Service (Defence) Determination Assessment of Required Assurances of Sup- 1999/5. port—No. 10. Public Service Determination 1999/5. Notice under subsection— Senior Executive Service Retirement on 96(1)—Pool mark, dated 23 June 1999 [2]. Benefit Determinations 1999/41-1999/45. 96(2)—Pass mark, dated 23 June 1999 [2]. Radiocommunications Act— Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7079

900 MHz Band Plan Variation 1999 (No. 1). TR 1999/7-TR 1999/11. Citizen Band Radio Stations Class Licence Therapeutic Goods Act—Therapeutic Goods Variation 1999 (No. 1). Order No. 64. Handphone Stations (27MHz) Class Licence Trade Marks Act—Regulations—Statutory Rules Variation 1999 (No. 1). 1999 No. 153. Personal Marine Distress Beacons Class Wheat Industry Fund Levy Act—Regulations— Licence Revocation 1999. Statutory Rules 1999 No. 127. Radiocommunications Devices (Compliance Wheat Marketing Act—Regulations—Statutory Labelling) Amendment Notice 1999 (No. 1). Rules 1999 No. 128. Radiocommunications Miscellaneous Devices Class Licence 1999. Wheat Marketing Legislation Amendment Act— Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 126. Radiocommunications Standard (Short Range Devices—9 kHz to 25 MHz Radio Equipment Wool International Act and Wool International and 9 kHz to 30 MHz Inductive Loop Sys- Privatisation Act—Regulations—Statutory Rules tems) 1999. 1999 No. 129. Radiocommunications Standards Revocation Indexed Lists of Files 1999. The following document was tabled pursu- VHF High Band Frequency Band Plan (148 to 174 MHz) Plan Variation 1999 (No. 1). ant to the order of the Senate of 30 May 1996, as amended 3 December 1998: VHF Mid Band Frequency Band Plan (70 to 87.5 MHz) Plan Variation 1999 (No. 1). Indexed lists of departmental and agency files for Radiocommunications (Transmitter Licence Tax) the period 1 July to 31 December 1998 and 1 Act—Radiocommunications (Transmitter Licence January to 30 June 1999—Statements of compli- Tax) Determination No. 1 of 1996 Amendment ance—Department of Veterans’ Affairs. 1999 (No. 2). PROCLAMATIONS Rice Levy Act—Regulations—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 125. Proclamations by His Excellency the Gover- Sales Tax Determination STD 1999/4. nor-General were tabled, notifying that he had proclaimed the following Acts and provisions States Grants (Petroleum Products) Act— Amendment No. 99/1. of Acts to come into operation on the dates specified: Student Assistance Act—Determination No. 1999/1—Determination of Education Institutions Anti-Personnel Mines Convention Act 1998—1 and Courses under subsections 3(1) and 5D(1) of July 1999 (Gazette No. S 288, 30 June 1999). the Student Assistance Act 1973. Australian Sports Drug Agency Amendment Act Superannuation (Excluded Funds) Supervisory 1999—1 August 1999 (Gazette No. S 349, 28 Levy Imposition Act—Regulations—Statutory July 1999). Rules 1999 No. 134. Authorised Deposit-taking Institutions Supervi- Superannuation (Productivity Benefit) Act— sory Levy Imposition Act 1998—1 July 1999 Declarations—Statutory Rules 1999 Nos 135- (Gazette No. S 289, 30 June 1999). 137. Customs (Anti-dumping Amendments) Act 1999— Determination—Statutory Rules 1999 No. 138. Items 1, 2 and 3 of Schedule 1—1 July 1999 Sydney Airport Curfew Act—Dispensation (Gazette No. S 286, 30 June 1999). granted under section 20—Dispensation No. Financial Sector Reform (Amendments and 11/1999. Transitional Provisions) Act 1998—Item 86 of Taxation Determination— Schedule 2—1 July 1999 (Gazette No. S 289, 30 June 1999). TD 94/48 (Addendum). Financial Sector Reform (Amendments and TD 1999/36-TD 1999/40. Transitional Provisions) Act (No. 1) 1999— Taxation Ruling— Transfer date—1 July 1999 (Gazette No. S 283, SST 16. 29 June 1999). Migration Legislation Amendment Act (No. 1) TR 94/22 (Addendum). 1999—Schedule 1 (except items 1, 2, 3, 4 and TR 96/16 (Addendum), TR 96/17 (Addendum) 10) and Schedule 2—22 July 1999 (Gazette No. and TR 96/18 (Addendum). S 337, 22 July 1999). 7080 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

QUESTIONS ON NOTICE

The following answers to questions were circulated:

Treasury: Accrual Accounting (1) Total expenditure on the move to accrual accounting for the 1997-98 financial year is esti- (Question No. 548) mated at $1,300,430. Senator Robert Ray asked the Minister representing the Treasurer, upon notice, on 9 (2) The department’s original budgeted estimate March 1999: for the 1997-98 financial year was $1,354,000. (1) What was the total expenditure on preparing (3) (a) Consultants were engaged to assist in the the department for the move to accrual accounting conversion of the existing Treasury cash budget to for the 1997-98 financial year. accruals. Consultants engaged included qualified (2) What was the department’s forecast for accountants and professional presenters involved in expenditure in this area. the training and education of Treasury staff. Programmers and technical consultants were (3) (a) In which instances were firms or individu- engaged to develop new systems to support both als engaged to provide consultancy services associ- the upgrade of old technology and to install new ated with the shift to accrual accounting by the technology and associated software. department; (b) which firms or individuals were engaged. (b) Consultancy firms engaged by Treasury were (4) (a) What was the total number of days that Coopers and Lybrand, Assist P/L and Catalyst consultants were engaged to provide this advice or Interactive P/L. services; (b) at what cost per day in each instance; (c) what was the total cost of each consultancy in (4) (a) The total number of days that consultants each instance. were engaged to provide this advice or services was approximately 124 days. The number of contractors (5) (a) What is the estimated expenditure on working on any one project varied daily, depending outside consultants to advise on accrual accounting on the requirements and complexities of the work for the 1998-99 financial year; (b) how much has being performed at any given time. been spent to date. (6) What is the estimated total expenditure on (b) Contractors were paid on varying rates per preparing for accrual accounting for the 1998-99 day depending on their qualifications, whether part- financial year. time or full-time, term of contract and period of Senator Kemp—The Treasurer has provid- involvement. ed the following answer to the honourable (c) The total cost(s) of each consultancy for senator’s question: 1997-98 was as follows:

Company Total cost(s) Coopers and Lybrand $34,350 Assist P/L $108,575 Catalyst Interactive P/L $35,500

(5) (a) The estimated expenditure for consultants Aged Care Centres: Nursing Staff for 1998-99 is $387,800. (Question No. 593) (b) A total of $352,800 has been expended on outside consultants from 1 July 1998 to 30 June Senator Chris Evans asked the Minister 1999. representing the Minister for Aged Care, upon (6) The estimated total expenditure on preparing notice, on 16 March 1999: for accrual accounting for the 1998-99 financial (1) Have a number of providers of high-level year is $1,062,940. residential aged care been replacing qualified Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7081 enrolled nurses with ‘aged care workers’ who have (5) The care subsidies are based on resident care no formal training. needs as assessed through the Resident Classifica- tion Scale (RCS). The Commonwealth pays a (2) What was the ratio of qualified nursing staff, higher level of subsidy in relation to residents with both registered and enrolled nurses, to residents in higher care needs. high-level aged care facilities, by state, in the 1996- 97, 1997-98 financial years and to date in the 1998- Under the RCS, all residents are assessed against 99 financial year. Question 18—Technical and Complex Nursing Procedures, which itemises complex nursing (3) Under the Aged Care Act what mandatory services under List 2. Such procedures ‘will be requirements are placed on providers to employ carried out by a registered nurse or other health qualified nursing staff. professional appropriate to the particular procedure, (4) Can a provider operate a high-level aged care based on initial and ongoing assessment, planning facility without any qualified nursing staff present. and management of the care recipient’s care by a registered nurse. Examples include medical practi- (5) Are the daily care subsidies paid by the tioners, stoma therapists etc.’ Commonwealth to providers based on the award rates for qualified nurses. If a resident requires these complex nursing services and, hence the input of a trained nurse, (6) Have the dependency levels of residents in their RCS rating will increase and consequently so high-level aged care facilities increased. will the subsidy paid to the facility under the RCS. (7) Can the Minister confirm that Principle 3.8 (6) The introduction of a new Resident Classifi- ‘Nursing Services’ is not being applied to low-level cation Scale in October 1997 makes it difficult to care facilities that retain residents who require high compare dependency levels of current aged care level care. facility clients with clients assessed under the Senator Herron—The Minister for Aged previous instruments. Care has provided the following answer to the It is, however, possible to compare the dependen- honourable senator’s question: cy levels of people already in residential aged care facilities with the dependency levels of people (1), (2) and (3) The Commonwealth Aged Care entering care since October 1997. When such an Act 1997/Part 4.1/Division 54-1(b) states that assessment is done, the dependency level is shown providers of aged care must ‘maintain an adequate to have increased by 1.54%. number of appropriately skilled staff to ensure that the care needs of care recipients are met.’ Service (7) Principle 3.8 Nursing Services applies to all providers must be able to demonstrate this to the high care residents who need the listed procedures Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency. regardless of the type of aged care facility in which The Quality of Care Principles of the Aged Care they are living. Act 1997 are measured by outcomes and therefore, the Act does not prescribe ratios of nursing staff to Aviation: Incident at Cairns Airport residents. (Question No. 683) The Aged Care Act 1997, Quality of Care Senator O’Brien asked the Minister repre- Principles, Schedule 1/3.8, lists complex nursing senting the Minister for Transport and Re- procedures which, for high care residents, must be carried out by a registered nurse or other profes- gional Services, upon notice, on 21 April sional appropriate to the service (eg. medical 1999: practitioner, stoma therapist etc). The Principles (1) Are Airservices Australia (ASA) air traffic also state that, for these services, ‘Initial and on- controllers required by the Air Navigation Act 1920 going assessment, planning and management of to report any incidents they witness within 48 hours care for residents, [must be] carried out by a of that incident occurring. registered nurse’. (2) Are the controllers also required by the (4) All high care residents must by virtue of Manual of Air Traffic Services to report any Schedule 1/3.8 in the Aged Care Act 1997, Quality incidents they witness. of Care Principles have ‘Initial and on-going assessment, planning and management of care for (3) Did air traffic control (ATC) team leaders residents, carried out by a registered nurse’. In witness an incident involving a Cessna twin-engine addition, this Schedule lists complex nursing aircraft and a Navajo aircraft at Cairns Airport on procedures and states they must be carried out by 28 January 1999. a registered nurse or other professional appropriate (4) Did those ATC team leaders report the to the service (eg. medical practitioner, stoma incident as is required by the Air Navigation Act therapist etc). and the manual. 7082 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

(5) If those ATC team leaders failed to report the (7) Airservices undertook a limited investigation incident, what action did ASA and the Bureau of following discussions with BASI. Air Safety Investigation take. (8) (a)&(b) Radar data was not available and (6) Were the controllers involved in the above examination of the audio recordings shed no light incident suspended from duty; if so: (a) when were on the CAIR report. Accordingly no formal report they suspended; and (b) what was the duration of was completed. the suspension. (9) (a) The Terminal Area Stream Specialist and (7) Did ASA undertake an investigation into the the Tower Stream Specialist. above incident. (b) Both are qualified and experienced air traffic controllers who hold qualifications in incident (8) (a) What were the findings of that inquiry; investigations and (b) can a copy be provided of the subsequent report. (10) No. It was considered that the issues raised by the CAIR report did not require an investigator (9) (a) Who undertook the ASA inquiry; and (b) from another unit. what were the qualifications and experience of the (11) (a) and (b) The on-duty team leaders in the ASA investigator. tower were interviewed and could not recall any (10) Did ASA ensure that the ASA investigator incident. Airservices Cairns offered to conduct was from another ATC unit in order to ensure an more extensive investigations and interviews on absence of local bias in the investigation; if not, behalf of BASI. As the radar data was not available why not. BASI determined that further interviews were not warranted. (11) Did the ASA investigator interview all or any of the controllers who were on duty at Cairns Minister for Industry, Science and Airport at the time of the incident; if not (a) who Resources: Cost of Dinners and was not interviewed as part of the inquiry; and (b) what was the reason that those interviews did not Functions take place. (Question No. 720) Senator Ian Macdonald—The Minister for Senator Robert Ray asked the Minister for Transport and Regional Services has provided Industry, Science and Resources, upon notice, the following answer to the honourable on 6 May 1999: senator’s question: (1) On how many occasions did the department pay for dinners or functions, both in restaurants and Airservices has advised that: elsewhere, attended by the former Minister for (1) Yes. Science and Technology (Mr McGauran), not (2) Yes. including those paid for and approved by the Ceremonial and Hospitality Unit of the Department (3) The ATC team leaders did not witness an of Prime Minister and Cabinet, between his ap- incident involving a Cessna twin-engined aircraft pointment in March 1996 and his resignation in and a Navajo aircraft at Cairns Airport on 28 September 1997. January 1999. (2) In each instance: (a) when did the dinner or (4) No incident was reported by Team Leaders function take place; (b) what was the purpose; (c) for 28 January 1999 (see (3) above). who were the attendees; (d) what was the cost; and (5) The alleged incident at Cairns Airport on 28 (e) what was the venue. January 1999 was not reported to the Bureau of Air Safety Investigation (BASI) by Air Traffic Control Senator Minchin—The answer to the hon- team leaders as the team leaders on duty did not ourable senator’s question is as follows: observe an incident. The allegation was made to (1) 17 BASI on 3 February 1999 as a Confidential Avia- (2) There are two occasions where the Depart- tion Incident Report (CAIR). ment has paid for lunch and the only attendee (6) N/A. has been a journalist. Amount paid: $147.00

(a) When (b) Purpose (c) Attendees (d) Cost (e) Venue 7/5/96 Dinner 2 industry representatives 167.15 Parliament House, Canberra 27/5/96 Dinner 2 science representative 198.00 Parliament House, Canberra Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7083

(a) When (b) Purpose (c) Attendees (d) Cost (e) Venue 28/5/96 Dinner 1 science representative 78.70 Parliament House, Canberra 18/9/96 Budget briefings—Science 26 attendees, including 1 Depart- 177.50 Parliament House, Awareness Group. mental officer Canberra 4/11/96 Dinner 2 attendees 105.45 Parliament House, Canberra 8/11/96 Working lunch—New Images 1 attendee 59.50 Parliament House, program Canberra 9/12/96 Official farewell dinner—Chair- 19 attendees, including 4 ASTEC 1,254.25 Parliament House, man of ASTEC Secretariat officers Canberra 11/12/96 Departmental End-of-Year Re- Departmental SES 1,265.00 Old Parliament view dinner (hosted by the House Secretary) 16/12/96 Working lunch—R&D Start pro- 2 industry representatives 180.00 Ristorante Roberto, gram Melbourne, Victoria 28/1/97 Working lunch—Portfolio issues 1 journalist 45.00 Mamma Du Caffe, Southgate, Victoria 30/1/97 Working lunch—portfolio issues 1 journalist 102.00 Walters Wine Bar, South Melbourne, Victoria 11/2/97 Australia Prize Presentation Din- Nominators, nominees, Committee 55,105.00 The Great Hall, Par- ner (hosted by the Prime members, State and Federal parlia- liament House, Can- Minister) mentarians, academics, scientists, berra State and Federal senior public ser- vants 16/4/97 Official opening of the new IP The Governor-General, the former 3,500.00 Forecourt of Discov- Australia office in Discovery Minister for Administrative Ser- ery House, Phillip House vices, Mrs Matilda House of the Ngunnawal Aboriginal Land Council, senior public servants, 40 invited guests including former Commissioners of Patents, contrac- tors and consultants involved in the construction of the building, repre- sentatives of customer groups and about 250 IP Australia staff 29/5/97 Prime Minister’s Science Engi- 10 PMSEC members 621.00 Parliament House, neering Council (PMSEC) Canberra members’ dinner 18/6/97 Official farewell dinner—Chief 12 attendees 784.13 Parliament House, Science Adviser Canberra 30/7/97 Working lunch—gene technology 2 attendees, including 1 Ministerial 204.30 Marchetti Tuscan staff member Grill, Melbourne, Victoria 5/9/97 Working lunch—ANSTO 15 attendees, including, 3 Depart- 563.00 Hyatt Hotel, Can- mental staff, 3 Ministerial staff, 1 berra ANSTO staff

Minister for the Arts and the Centenary (2) In each instance: (a) when did the dinner or of Federation: Cost of Functions and function take place; (b) what was the purpose; (c) Dinners who were the attendees; (d) what was the cost; and (e) what was the venue. (Question No. 721) Senator Alston—The Minister for Arts and Senator Robert Ray asked the Minister the Centenary of Federation has provided the representing the Minister for Arts and the following answer to the honourable senator’s Centenary of Federation, upon notice, on 6 question: May 1999: (1) The department has not paid for any dinners (1) On how many occasions did the department or functions attended by the Minister where hospi- pay for dinners or functions, both in restaurants and tality was extended and where the attendees were elsewhere, attended by the Minister, not including ministerial colleagues or ministerial staff or jour- those paid for and approved by the Ceremonial and nalists only. Hospitality Unit of the Department of the Prime On four occasions the department paid for functions Minister and Cabinet, between his appointment in which were hosted or co-hosted by the Minister October 1998 and 30 March 1999 where hospitality was extended. 7084 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

Date Purpose Attendees Cost ($) Venue 8/3/99 Briefing on the National Mu- Attendees included media, $4,485 Acton Peninsula seum of Australia representatives from stake- holder organisations, senior Commonwealth and ACT de- partmental officers and site workers. 12/11/98 Launch of National Portrait 200-250 people including spon- $5,590 Old Parliament Gallery exhibition sors, media, representatives of House the diplomatic community and cultural institutions, local ar- tists, senior departmental offic- ers. 4/3/99 Launch of the National Portrait 400-450 people including me- $7,318 Old Parliament Gallery’s permanent collection dia, sponsors, Prime Minister House and former Labor Prime Minister, representatives of cul- tural attractions, the tourism and hospitality industries and the arts community, senior de- partmental officers. 2/12/98 Pre film screening cocktail Filmmakers, Members and $2,250 Parliament House reception Senators, senior departmental and portfolio agency officers.

Child Support Payments formed, but the underlying principle of the Child Support Scheme is that the natural and/or adoptive (Question No. 1008) parents remain financially responsible for support- Senator O’Brien asked the Minister for ing their children. Accordingly, the fact that a Family and Community Services, upon notice, parent has formed a new relationship does not, in on 21 May 1999: itself, have any bearing upon his or her child support assessment. (1) Is a working parent who lives in a permanent relationship with a partner who has a child from a The working parent could be entitled to Parenting previous relationship and a child to the present Payment, Family Allowance Childcare Assistance relationship entitled to claim both children and his and Family Tax Payment from Centrelink, subject partner as dependants for the purposes of the Child to meeting the income and assets test and all other Support (Assessment) Act; if so, what benefits is requirements. However, only one of a couple can the parent entitled to through Centrelink. receive Parenting Payment, so normally the non working partner would claim parenting payment (2) Are there any limits placed on Centrelink and be eligible for a higher rate. Similarly Family allowances payable to the second family; if so, Allowance and Family Tax Payment are usually what are the limits. paid to the primary carer. When calculating the Senator Newman—The answer to the family income for Family Allowance and Childcare honourable senator’s question is as follows: Assistance, 50% of any child support paid by the partner would be deducted from the family income. (1) Formula assessments of child support are based on the income of both natural and/or adop- (2) Otherwise, Centrelink entitlements payable to tive parents, and take into account a parent’s duty a second family are identical to those payable to to maintain any other natural children. Therefore, other families. a parent who is paying child support for a child of From 1 January 1999 child support payers with a previous relationship, and who has a natural child second families are able to claim 50% of any child in a new relationship, can claim that child as a support paid as a deduction from the household dependant for the purposes of the Child Support income used for determining the family’s entitle- (Assessment) Act 1989. ment of Family Tax Payment and Childcare If a person forms a relationship with a partner Assistance. who already has a child in their care, the partner remains entitled to receive child support from the Tasmanian Regional Forest Agreement child’s parent. The child support will still be based (Question No. 1088) on both of the parents’ incomes. The new partner’s income will not be taken into account. Senator Brown asked the Minister for The circumstances of parents and children may Environment and Heritage, upon notice, on 7 change in many ways, as new relationships are June 1999: Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7085

Following the Tasmanian Regional Forest Multiple Use Forest Land areas as at June 1999 Agreement: (excluding RFA reserves yet to be proclaimed). (1) How much of the following is protected in: Note includes informal reserves within Multiple (a) formal reserves; and (b) dedicated reserves in Use Forest Land. Tasmania: (i) Eucalyptus regnans (forest communi- (a) Eucalyptus regnans (forest community)— ty), (ii) Eucalyptus obliqua (wet) (forest communi- 59,400 ha; (b) Eucalyptus regnans (old-growth ty), (iii) Eucalyptus delegatensis (wet) (forest only)—8,200 ha; (c) Eucalyptus obliqua (wet) community), and (iv) Eucalyptus viminalis (wet) (forest community)—264,700 ha; (d) Eucalyptus (forest community). (Please note that this question obliqua (wet) (old-growth only)—42,300 ha; (e) differs from question on notice no. 513 because it Eucalyptus delegatensis (wet) (forest community)— asks about forest communities, not just old-growth). 163,500 ha; (f) Eucalyptus delegatensis (wet) (old- (2) How much of the following is in multiple-use growth only)—42,300 ha; (g) Eucalyptus viminalis forests in Tasmania: (a) Eucalyptus regnans (forest (wet) (forest community)—800 ha; (h) Eucalyptus community); (b) Eucalyptus regnans (old-growth viminalis (wet) (old-growth only)—20 ha. only); (c) Eucalyptus obliqua (wet) (forest com- (3) This data derived from the CRA forest munity); (d) Eucalyptus obliqua (wet) (old-growth community mapping and Forestry Tasmania’s only); (e) Eucalyptus delegatensis (wet) (forest provisional coupes as at June 1999. Actual coupe community); (f) Eucalyptus delegatensis (wet) (old- boundaries often vary from provisional boundaries growth only); (g) Eucalyptus viminalis (wet) (forest following final operational planning. community); and (h) Eucalyptus viminalis (wet) (a) Eucalyptus regnans (forest community)— (old-growth only). 47,300 ha; (b) Eucalyptus regnans (old-growth (3) How much of the following is in provisional only)—5,800 ha; (c) Eucalyptus obliqua (wet) coupes in Tasmania: (a) Eucalyptus regnans (forest (forest community)—195 400 ha; (d) Eucalyptus community); (b) Eucalyptus regnans (old-growth obliqua (wet) (old-growth only)—25,800 ha; (e) only); (c) Eucalyptus obliqua (wet) (forest com- Eucalyptus delegatensis (wet) (forest community)— munity); (d) Eucalyptus obliqua (wet) (old-growth 128,200 ha; (f) Eucalyptus delegatensis (wet) (old- only); (e) Eucalyptus delegatensis (wet) (forest growth only)—35,600 ha; (g) Eucalyptus viminalis community); (f) Eucalyptus delegatensis (wet) (old- (wet) (forest community)—550 ha*; (h) Eucalyptus growth only); (g) Eucalyptus viminalis (wet) (forest viminalis (wet) (old-growth only)—10 ha*. community); and (h) Eucalyptus viminalis (wet) * NB Wet E. viminalis forest is a community to (old-growth only). be managed under the RFA for protection on Senator Hill—The answer to the honour- public land outside reserves where prudent and able senator’s question is as follows: feasible. Any actual areas found within provi- sional coupes are to be excluded from the final The Tasmanian Regional Forest Agreement coupe where prudent and feasible. (RFA) includes a comprehensive, adequate and representative (CAR) Forest Reserve System of Sun Healthcare Formal Reserves, Informal Reserves and values managed by prescription. Boundaries of some new (Question No. 1090) reserves are still being finalised by the Tasmanian Senator Brown asked the Minister repre- Government in accordance with the RFA. Noting senting the Treasurer upon notice, on 7 June this the following are therefore approximate areas. 1999: (1) (a) (i) Eucalyptus regnans forest communi- (1) When the Assistant Treasurer approved Sun ty—10,200 ha; (ii) Eucalyptus obliqua (wet) forest Healthcare’s entry into Australia in August 1997 community—78,000 ha; (iii) Eucalyptus was the Assistant Treasurer advised of the incon- delegatensis forest community—69,600 ha; (iv) gruity between the claims of inadequate staffing Eucalyptus viminalis (wet) forest community—450 and substandard quality of care in Sun Healthcare’s ha. American facilities on the one hand, while Sun (1) (b) (ii) Eucalyptus obliqua (wet) forest Healthcare’s chairman claimed there was plenty of community—33,500 ha; (iii) Eucalyptus money in the system. delegatensis forest community—55,900 ha; (iv) (2) What steps were taken by the department and Eucalyptus viminalis (wet) forest community—80 the Assistant Treasurer to satisfy themselves about ha. the quality of care issues prior to approving the The information for questions 2 and 3 is not part entry of Sun Healthcare into Australia in August of the jointly owned RFA data and has been 1997. provided by Forestry Tasmania. (3) What steps does the Government plan to take (2) This data is based on the Comprehensive to protect Australians from the business practices Regional Assessment (CRA) forest mapping and of this company now that the serious problems 7086 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999 consequent to Sun Healthcare’s business practices (1) O’Connor Meats was under contract for the have been exposed by a United States Senate supply of six meat inspectors and one veterinary hearing, concerned citizens and the press in the officer from AQIS at the time of the closure. United State of America. (2) It is the Minister’s understanding the plant is (4) Does the Government plan to modify the closed owing to a failure to conclude enterprise process for approving the entry of multinational bargaining negotiations with the workforce. The heath care corporations into Australia in the light closure commenced on 5 March 1999. of experiences with National Medical Enterprises (3) AQIS costs are approximately $7450 per (now called Tenet Healthcare), Generale de Sante week. Internationale, Columbia/HCA and Sun Healthcare. Australian Meat Safety Enhancement Senator Kemp—The answer to the honour- Program able senator’s question is as follows: (Question No. 1093) (1) No. Senator O’Brien asked the Minister repre- (2) Extensive consultations were undertaken by senting the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries the Department on behalf of the Government. and Forestry, upon notice, on 9 June 1999: (3) A proposal by Sun Healthcare to acquire (1) Is the meat works at Rockdale (establishment additional businesses or shares in Australia would 517) the first plant to participate in the Australian be subject to an examination process with the Meat Safety Enhancement Program (MSEP); if so, relevant State/Territory Governments and Common- when were the new arrangements put in place at wealth agencies being consulted. that plant. (4) Under the present arrangements the (2) How many Australian Quarantine and Inspec- State/Territory health authorities have sole responsi- tion Service (AQIS) officers and how many com- bility for the licensing of private hospitals. This pany employees engaged in inspection procedures includes the responsibility to assess an applicant’s were employed at the plant prior to the introduction suitability to hold such a licence. The issue of a of the MSEP. Commonwealth provider number for private health (3) How many AQIS officers and company insurance purposes is contingent on the facility employees engaged in inspection services are possessing such a licence. employed at the plant after the introduction of the In examining proposals for foreign interests to MSEP. invest in Australian health care the Foreign Invest- (4) What are the savings from the new inspection ment Review Board will continue to consult with arrangements to the plant operator. State/Territory Governments and other relevant (5) How much product processed at establish- authorities. ment 517 was condemned over the 24-month period O’Connor Meats: Australian Quarantine leading up to the introduction of the MSEP. and Inspection Service Officers (6) How much product has been condemned at this establishment since the introduction of the (Question No. 1092) MSEP. Senator O’Brien asked the Minister repre- (7) Did the plant operator lodge a complaint with AQIS about the condemnation of product prior to senting the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries the introduction of the MSEP; if so: (a) what was and Forestry, upon notice, on 9 June 1999: the basis of the complaint; and (b) what action did (1) How many Australian Quarantine and Inspec- AQIS take as a result of the complaint. tion Service (AQIS) officers are employed at (8) Did the plant operator lodge a complaint with O’Connor Meats (establishment 1265) in Paken- AQIS about the condemnation of product after the ham, Victoria. introduction of the MSEP; if so: (a) what was the basis of the complaint; and (b) what action did (2) Is the plant closed as a result of an industrial AQIS take as a result of the complaint. dispute; if so, how long has the plant been closed. Senator Alston—The Minister for Agricul- (3) What is the estimated cost of employing the AQIS officers at the plant while it is closed. ture, Fisheries and Forestry has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s Senator Alston—The Minister for Agricul- question: ture, Fisheries and Forestry has provided the (1) No Australian plant has commenced oper- following answer to the honourable senator’s ations under the Meat Safety Enhancement Pro- question: gram. Rockdale is expected to be one of the first Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7087 plants to adopt MSEP sometime during (1) Midfield Meat has a contract with AQIS for July/August. the supply of twelve meat inspectors and one (2) Under the existing inspection requirements, veterinary officer. AQIS employs two meat inspectors and one (2) Of the twelve meat inspectors four are veterinary officer for each shift at the Rockdale permanent employees and eight are contractors. The plant. No company employees are engaged in permanent employees are located at establishment inspection procedures. 180 and the contractors at establishment 246. (3) After MSEP is implemented, AQIS would (3) The eight contractors were engaged when retain one meat inspector and one veterinary officer establishment 246 was registered for export oper- per shift. The company will employ two persons ations on 4 May 1999. Contractor costs are ap- with meat inspection qualifications, per shift, to proximately $8,500 per week. This includes some undertake the sorting function. contract costs for relief purposes at establishment 180. (4) The motivation for developing MSEP has been to enhance food safety outcomes. The move Tasmania: Television Reception towards HACCP-based inspection has required a considerable investment by the meat industry. The (Question No. 1099) issue of cost savings has thus been a secondary Senator O’Brien asked the Minister for consideration. AQIS has no information available Communications, Information Technology and about the costs to the company from the new inspection arrangements. the Arts, upon notice, on 9 July 1999: (5) From July 1997 to June 1999, there have (1) When did the Latrobe Council in Tasmania been 308 carcases condemned at Rockdale first write to the National Transmission Agency (NTA) about difficulties with television reception (6) The company is not yet operating under for many residents in Port Sorell, Shearwater and MSEP. Hawley. (7) Plant management at Rockdale raised the (2) Did the NTA receive any submissions from condemnation of some carcase parts by an AQIS any other organisations or individuals about the inspector. This matter was resolved at the plant poor television reception in those areas; if so: (a) level with the AQIS veterinarian reporting the who made those submissions; and (b) when were outcome of his investigation to the Area Office in they received by the NTA. Sydney. The review by the plant veterinarian (3) Did the NTA identify a site for a transmitter confirmed that the decision taken by the inspector to address the problems facing these communities. was correct and no action by AQIS was necessary. (4) (a) When did the NTA commence the process (8) The company is not yet operating under of site identification and transmitter development; MSEP. and (b) when was the site located. Midfield Meat: Australian Quarantine (5) Were any contracts let as part of the process and Inspection Service Officers of locating a transmitter in the region; if so: (a) what was the nature of each contract; (b) what was (Question No. 1094) the cost; and (c) was each contract completed. Senator O’Brien asked the Minister repre- (6) If some contracts were not completed: (a) senting the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries were they still paid out; and (b) what happened and Forestry, upon notice, on 9 June 1999: with regard to any unfinished work associated with each contract. (1) How many Australian Quarantine and Inspec- (7) (a) What expenditure was incurred by the tion Service (AQIS) officers are employed at NTA in progressing the establishment of a transmit- Midfield Meat (establishments 180 and 246) at ter to assist these communities; and (b) can a Warrnambool, Victoria. breakdown be provided of those costs. (2) Are these officers permanent employees or (8) (a) When did the NTA cease work on the contract employees. establishment of the transmitter, and (b) what was (3) If they are contract employees: (a) how long the justification for not completing the project. have they been engaged; and (b) what is the cost of their employment. Senator Alston—The answer to the honour- able senator’s question is as follows: Senator Alston—The Minister for Agricul- (1) Latrobe Council wrote on one occasion to the ture, Fisheries and Forestry has provided the National Transmission Agency (NTA) about the following answer to the honourable senator’s television reception in the Port Sorell district. The question: Latrobe Council letter is dated 9 February 1999. 7088 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

(2) (a and b) The NTA received three submis- visually intrusive and costing more than twice as sions concerning television reception in the Port much as would a facility on Hawk Trap Hill. Sorell area: (5) (a) (b) (c) and (6) (a) (b) (c) There were no The Hon Dick Adams MP, the Member for Lyons, contracts made to provide translator facilities in the who met with the NTA on 1 June 1995; area. A letter from Mr John Robertson of Port Sorell (7) (a) (b) The expenditure incurred by the NTA (received by the NTA on 24 October 1996); and to identify and acquire a suitable translator site at A letter from Senator Kay Denman, dated 17 Port Sorell is not separately identified in NTA March 1997, representing Mr Bob Walker of Port records. A breakdown of those costs cannot there- Sorrel, Mrs J Meehan of Shearwater, and Mrs fore be provided. Tuner of Northdown. (8) (a) The NTA effectively ceased work on the (3) The NTA identified a number of sites in the Port Sorell translator during the later half of 1998. area that could provide television signals, with (b) After the Government confirmed its intention varying degrees of efficiency, to the communities. to sell the National Transmission Network (NTN) Of these sites, Hawk Trap Hill was the preferred on 29 July 1998, the NTA undertook a review of location. A site adjacent to the Port Sorell reservoir projects in hand to determine which ones could be was potentially suitable. completed prior to the sale. As the NTA had not (4) (a) The Port Sorell area was identified as been able to acquire a suitable site at Port Sorrel, likely to require translator facilities during planning it determined that practical completion of the for Band II Clearance which commenced in 1991. translator, or the letting of contracts for later The NTA began actively considering potential sites completion, were not possible in the time remain- for the establishment of the translator in 1994, ing. The NTA therefore directed its resources to concurrent with the commencement of ABC TV such projects as could be brought to completion. simulcast UHF transmissions from Mt Barrow, Department of Trade: Grants to the Launceston. Electorate of Bass (b) The first and best translator location, Hawk Trap Hill, was identified in 1995. In August 1995, (Question No. 1100) an NTA field survey team conducted propagation Senator O’Brien asked the Minister for tests from this site. On the basis of the tests, the Trade, upon notice, on 9 June 1999: NTA determined that a translator located on Hawk Trap Hill could receive a program input signal (a) What programs and/or grants administered by suitable for retransmission and would provide good the Minister’s department provide assistance to UHF television coverage in and around Port Sorrel, people living in the federal electorate of Bass. Shearwater and Hawley Beach. (b) What was the level of funding provided The NTA was unable to complete the acquisition through these programs and grants for the 1997-98, of access to Hawk Trap Hill because the land, and 1998-99 financial years. which was designated as a public recreation area, (c) What level of funding provided through these was the habitat for Spyridium obcordatum. The programs and grants has been appropriated for the plant was listed as vulnerable under the Endangered 1999-2000 financial year. Species Protection Act 1992. Senator Hill—The Minister for Trade has The NTA consequently investigated a number of provided the following answers to the honour- other potential sites. Of those sites, the only viable alternative, near the Port Sorell reservoir, would not able senator’s questions: provide the degree of coverage offered by Hawk (a) Austrade administers the Export Market Trap Hill. It would require a much taller mast than Development Grants (EMDG) scheme which in the Hawk Trap Hill, and the installation of microwave years nominated provided grants to organisations links for program input, thereby being more in the Bass federal electorate.

(b)

Electorate of Bass Number of claimants Amount claimed $ Payment made $ 1997-98 4 93,138 92,068 1998-99 5 106,416 * Payment has not been finalised for Financial Year 1998-99 Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7089

(c) EMDG has an annual budget of $150 million, Senator Herron—The answer to the however there is no budget target for each elector- honourable senator’s question is as follows: ate. We expect grants in 1999-2000 to be similar to previous years. It should be noted that; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs: Grants to the Electorate of Bass A number of activities are funded to one organi- sation which operates on a state-wide basis, with (Question No. 1114) offices in the south, north and north-west of the Senator O’Brien asked the Minister for state. As the northern office is in Launceston, the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, allocation to Bass is stated as one third of the total upon notice, on 9 June 1999: funding to this organisation. (1) What programs and/or grants administered by There is also a CDEP activity which operates on the Minister’s department provide assistance to a state-wide basis. The allocation apportioned to people living in the federal electorate of Bass. Bass represents the proportion of participants who (2) What was the level of funding provided live in the electorate. through these programs and grants for the 1997-98 and 1998-99 financial years. The 1999/2000 year’s allocation have not been (3) What level of funding provided through these fully committed to activities as yet, therefore the programs and grants has been appropriated for the total level of funding for the electorate of Bass may 1999-2000 financial year. alter later in the financial year.

Level of Funding

1999-00 as at Program 1997-98 1998-99 24/6/98 Art & Cultural 60,219 217,202 100,276 Business Development 82,000 103,500 0 Community Housing & Infrastructure 899,020 1,729,490 729,544 CDEP 0 70,200 440,173 Language Maintenance 58,333 75,000 45,000 Legal Services 288,680 292,638 300,494 Link Up 20,453 29,057 38,957 Public Affairs 9,300 27,789 21,201 TOTAL 1,418,005 2,544,876 1,675,645

Long Day Care Centres: Accreditation through a plan of action; and (c) in self-study, in review, in moderation or waiting for a decision by (Question No. 1120) the National Childcare Accreditation Council. [Can the date be provided for the Commonwealth, with Senator Chris Evans asked the Minister sub-totals for each state and territory, and sub-totals for Family and Community Services, upon for private and community-based long day care.] notice, on 17 June 1999: Senator Newman—The answer to the hon- With reference to the 1999 accreditation status, ourable senator’s question is as follows: quality improvement and accreditation system for These figures are based on figures provided by long day care centres: What number and proportion the National Childcare Accreditation Council. Due of long day care centres are: (a) accredited for: (i) to the cyclical nature of the accreditation process, 1 year between reviews, (ii) 2 years between the information given is based on figures as at 24 reviews, (iii) 3 years between reviews; (b) working June 1999. 7090 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

NAT Accreditation status (Number of years between reviews) Community Private Total 1 105 484 589 2 56 180 236 3 839 1903 2742 Plan Of Action 41 227 268 Newly regis- 19 290 309 tered(not yet as- sessed) Total 1060 3084 4144

Accreditation status (Number of years between NSW reviews) Community Private Total 1 27 178 205 2 21 83 104 3 333 800 1133 Plan Of Action 5 83 88 Newly regis- 7 106 113 tered(not yet as- sessed) Total 393 1250 1643

VIC Accreditation status (Number of years between reviews) Community Private Total 1 28 137 165 2164056 3 205 308 513 Plan Of Action 11 45 56 Newly regis- 56873 tered(not yet as- sessed) Total 265 598 863

QLD Accreditation status (Number of years between reviews) Community Private Total 1167995 2 5 42 47 3 115 533 648 Plan Of Action 7 50 57 Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7091

QLD Accreditation status (Number of years between reviews) Community Private Total Newly regis- 26466 tered(not yet as- sessed) Total 145 768 913

SA Accreditation status (Number of years between reviews) Community Private Total

19918 26410 3 72 73 145 Plan Of Action 1 3 4 Newly regis- 11314 tered(not yet as- sessed) Total 89 102 191

WA Accreditation status (Number of years between reviews) Community Private Total

1 9 66 75 23912 3 58 133 191 Plan Of Action 10 37 47 Newly regis- 32831 tered(not yet as- sessed) Total 83 273 356

TAS Accreditation status (Number of years between reviews) Community Private Total

1224 22 2 3222345 Plan Of Action 1 1 7092 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

TAS Accreditation status (Number of years between reviews) Community Private Total

Newly regis- 134 tered(not yet as- sessed) Total 28 28 56

ACT Accreditation status (Number of years between reviews) Community Private Total 1 4 11 15 2123 3222850 Plan Of Action 2 4 6 Newly regis- 22 tered(not yet as- sessed) Total 29 47 76

NT Accreditation status Community Private Total (Number of years between reviews)

110212 22 2 312517 Plan Of Action 4 5 9 Newly regis- 66 tered(not yet as- sessed) Total 28 18 46

At 24 June 1999 there were: 360 centres awaiting review; 163 centres in moderation; 197 centres awaiting a council decision. The Quality Improvement and Accreditation System is a system that both accredits centres and encourages a process of constant self-improvement. Therefore, centres are encouraged to constantly review and evaluate their child care practices and to institute plans for improvement. 714 centres are due to submit formal self-study reports to the National Childcare Accreditation Council in the period July to December 1999. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7093

Long Day Care: Enrolments Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander; (e) non-English speaking background; and (f) no special needs. (Question No. 1121) [Can the data be provided for the Commonwealth, with sub-totals for each state and territory, and sub- Senator Chris Evans asked the Minister totals for private and community-based long day for Family and Community Services, upon care.] notice, on 17 June 1999: Senator Newman—The answer to the What is the number and proportion of total honourable senator’s question is as follows: enrolments in long day care for the following The information is set out in the tables below. groups: (a) child with disability; (b) parent with The most recent information relates to August disability; (c) referred because child at risk; (d) 1997. Data for 1999 will be available early in 2000.

Private Long Day Care—Number and Proportion of Additional Needs Children by State and Territory

Additional % Needs Chil- Aus- dren NSW % VIC % Qld % SA % WA % Tas % NT % ACT % tralia

Child with 1347 2 443 1 1058 2 108 2 264 2 12 1 4 1 27 1 3263 2 disability

Parent with 521 1 264 1 649 1 46 1 126 1 10 1 3 0 12 0 1631 1 disability

Referred be- 182 0 161 0 189 0 12 0 55 0 5 0 18 2 8 0 630 0 cause child at risk

Aboriginal 701 1 136 0 1439 2 56 1 234 1 5 0 58 8 19 1 2648 1 or Torres Strait Islander

Non English 12597 16 5260 14 4241 6 471 7 1273 8 73 4 77 10 438 16 24430 12 speaking background

No special 62100 80 32047 84 60651 89 6160 90 14458 88 1617 94 577 79 2327 82 179937 85 needs

Total speci- 77206 38168 68011 6841 16367 1721 733 2823 211870 fied *

Not speci- 1 0 29 0 0 0 0 0 30 fied

Total Chil- 77207 100 38168 100 68039 100 6841 100 16367 100 1721 100 733 100 2823 100 211900 100 dren * Note: Some of these children may be in more than one category Source: 1997 Census of Child Care Services

Community Long Day Care—Number and Proportion of Additional Needs Children by State and Territory

Additional Needs Aus- Children NSW % VIC % Qld % SA % WA % Tas % NT % ACT % tralia %

Child with dis- 842 3 379 2 232 2 205 2 131 2 80 2 15 1 37 2 1921 2 ability

Parent with dis- 279 1 167 1 99 1 64 1 72 1 17 0 8 1 21 1 727 1 ability

Referred because 204 1 83 0 35 0 24 0 55 1 10 0 11 1 8 0 430 1 child at risk

Aboriginal or 459 2 94 0 335 3 92 1 151 2 17 0 143 11 12 1 1303 2 Torres Strait Islander 7094 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

Additional Needs Aus- Children NSW % VIC % Qld % SA % WA % Tas % NT % ACT % tralia %

Non English 5907 20 3659 19 1135 10 502 6 910 3 98 3 106 8 290 15 12606 15 speaking back- ground

No special needs 21771 75 15389 78 10108 85 7530 90 5569 81 3476 94 1017 79 1513 81 66373 80

Total specified * 29221 19610 11875 8395 6839 3699 1293 1871 82802

Not specified 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Total Children 29221 100 19610 100 11875 100 8395 100 6839 100 3699 100 1293 100 1871 100 82802 100 * Note: Some of these children may be in more than one category

Long Day Care: Enrolments Senator Newman—The answer to the (Question No. 1122) honourable senator’s question is as follows: Senator Chris Evans asked the Minister There are no data available for 1996 and 1998 as for Family and Community Services, upon no Census of Child Care Services for private and notice, on 17 June 1999: community long day care centres was undertaken (1) Can a breakdown be provided, by age of in those years. Data from the 1999 Census of Child children currently enrolled in long day care. Care Services will be available in early 2000. (2) Can sub-totals be provided for each state and territory, and for and for community-based and Tables from the 1995 and 1997 Child Care Census- private long day care. es are below.

1995 Private Long Day Care Services—Number of Children by State and Territory

Ages of Chil- dren NSW Vic Qld SA WA Tas NT ACT Australia < 1 yr 897 1204 1251 218 514 42 11 114 4250 1 yr 2960 3865 5229 875 1485 208 63 426 15111 2 yrs 8677 5771 11808 1194 2903 2299 167 559 31378 3 yrs 20286 6799 17102 1398 3420 340 152 650 50147 4 yrs 23033 5722 15096 875 2629 309 108 621 48393 5 yrs 5655 1941 6654 115 990 93 16 167 15631 6+ yrs 1740 1302 2864 205 785 39 17 80 7035 Total Children 63249 26606 60003 4881 12724 1330 535 2617 171945 Source: 1995 Census of Child Care Services. These figures differ from those previously published due to estimation for non-respondents.

1995 Community Long Day Care Services—Number of Children by State and Territory

Ages ofChildren NSW Vic Qld SA WA Tas NT ACT Australia < 1 yr 554 719 403 457 300 151 53 90 2727 1 yr 2527 2870 1391 1488 1227 530 213 251 10497 2 yrs 5416 4237 2229 2206 1797 884 324 306 17401 3 yrs 8148 5185 2997 2326 2055 1063 340 397 22512 4 yrs 8742 4390 2743 1720 1543 802 290 294 20522 5 yrs 1802 1186 1253 87 380 230 33 113 5085 6+ yrs 77 61 85 57 30 40 6 0 359 Total Children 27267 18649 11102 8342 7333 3700 1259 1451 79104 Source: 1995 Census of Child Care Services. These figures differ from those previously published due to estimation for non-respondents. Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7095

1997 Private Long Day Care Services—Number of Children by State and Territory

Ages of Chil- dren NSW Vic Qld SA WA Tas NT ACT Australia < 1 yr 1226 1701 1490 301 569 31 15 157 5489 1 yr 4685 5537 6722 1226 2171 177 109 476 21102 2 yrs 12193 8538 13330 1712 3702 421 186 622 40704 3 yrs 23179 9512 17854 1948 4161 484 238 662 58038 4 yrs 25740 8117 16542 1255 3217 328 151 601 55952 5 yrs 7456 3035 7589 157 1196 118 24 227 19801 6+ yrs * 2730 1729 4513 243 1351 163 11 78 10815 Total Children 77207 38168 68039 6841 16367 1721 733 2823 211900 * Includes a small number whose age was not specified. Source: 1997 Census of Child Care Services. These figures have been weighted for non-respondents.

1997 Community Long Day Care Services—Number of Children by State and Territory

Ages of Children NSW Vic Qld SA WA Tas NT ACT Australia

< 1 yr 663 748 530 350 291 138 39 131 2891 1 yr 3009 3139 1627 1559 1259 545 211 316 11665 2 yrs 6151 4619 2556 2166 1815 923 346 452 19028 3 yrs 8353 5253 3126 2351 1883 1021 396 472 22856 4 yrs 8713 4424 2712 1748 1280 822 233 411 20343 5 yrs 2236 1303 1216 146 276 225 44 82 5528 6+ yrs 96 124 107 74 36 24 24 7 492 Total Children 29221 19610 18875 8395 6839 3699 1293 1871 82802 Source: 1997 Census of Child Care Services. These figures have been weighted for non-respondents.

Sri Lanka: Australian Humanitarian Aid around $4 million, was provided as emergency food aid (Australian wheat) for Internally Displaced (Question No. 1123) Persons. An additional $1.5 million was dispersed Senator Carr asked the Minister represent- through the Australian Community Resettlement ing the Minister for Foreign Affairs, upon Program. This program supports mines awareness, notice, on 21 June 1999: demining, trauma counselling, basic education, water supply and sanitation and income generation With reference to the continuing conflict in Sri activities in resettlement areas in conflict affected Lanka between the Tamil resistance and the Sri areas. A further $150,000 was channelled towards Lankan Government: humanitarian assistance through the AusAID-NGO (1) What is the level of Australian Government Cooperation Program including assistance for assistance to the humanitarian crisis in Sri Lanka. widowed mothers. The Australian Government (2) What measures has the Government taken to anticipates a similar level of expenditure on ensure that those funds are accounted for. humanitarian activities in Sri Lanka in financial year 1999/2000. (3) What is the Australian Government doing to address the humanitarian cost of the Sri Lankan (2) The Australian Government ensures that these Government’s economic blockade on the Tamil funds are accounted for by requiring those agencies population. receiving funds to sign agreements which comply with AusAID’s financial reporting requirements. Senator Hill—The Minister for Foreign Australia only supports those agencies which have Affairs has provided the following answer to been approved to work in conflict-affected areas by the honourable senator’s question: the Government of Sri Lanka and which can demonstrate a capacity to provide regular reporting (1) The Australian Government’s program of against agreed project outputs. Australia’s support development cooperation with the Government of is provided as food aid, accountable cash grants or Sri Lanka was an estimated $10 million in financial contributions to United Nations agencies, interna- year 1998/99 (final figures will not be available tional and local non-governmental organisations. until some months after the end of the financial The activities are closely monitored by AusAID year). Of this $10 million, an estimated $5.6 which has an officer posted in Colombo. The million was allocated for assistance to the ongoing activities are also monitored by the Government of humanitarian crisis. The bulk of this assistance, Sri Lanka. 7096 SENATE Monday, 9 August 1999

(3) Although the Australian Government is aware Department of Family and Community of claims by the Tamil community of an economic Services: Environmental Efficiency blockade, the Government has no evidence to Enhancements suggest that the Sri Lankan Government has imposed such a blockade. (Question No. 1135) Savengal Pty Ltd: Donations to the Senator Robert Ray asked the Minister for Australian Labor Party Family and Community Services, upon notice, on 23 June 1999: (Question No. 1125) What actions has the department undertaken to improve and enhance the environmental efficiency Senator Ferris asked the Special Minister of the department. of State, upon notice, on 22 June 1999: Senator Newman—The answer to the (1) Has the attention of the Australian Electoral honourable senator’s question is as follows: Commission (AEC) been drawn to donations to the Australian Labor Party (ALP) from Savengal Pty The Department of Family and Community Ltd and Snowdeal Pty Ltd, both of Tulong Avenue, Services has demonstrated a commitment to Oatlands, New South Wales, detailed in the amend- environmental efficiency through the established ed 1997-98 return submitted by the New South practices of: purchasing recycled paper; recycling Wales branch of the ALP. waste materials; reducing energy consumption through technology, such as after hours lighting and (2) Is the AEC aware that the Australian Securi- air conditioning controls; purchasing energy ties and Investments Commission (ASIC) database efficient office machines; and ensuring that the appears to have no record of a company by the fleet vehicles are equipped to minimise pollutant name of Savengal Pty Ltd and that the address for emissions, using unleaded fuel. Snowdeal Pty Ltd in the New South Wales ALP’s 1997/98 political party annual return is different Department of Family and Community from that on the ASIC database. Services: Annual Report (3) Can the AEC explain these apparent irregu- (Question No. 1137) larities; if so, what is the explanation; if not, what Senator Robert Ray asked the Minister for action will the AEC take to ensure that the require- ments of the Commonwealth Electoral Act have Family and Community Services, upon notice, been complied with. on 23 June 1999: (1) When did the department, or the former Senator Ellison—The answer to the hon- Department of Social Security, complete its 1997- ourable senator’s question is as follows: 98 annual report. (1) An amendment to the 1997/98 annual disclos- (2) How long did the Auditor-General take to ure return for the New South Wales branch of the certify the annual accounts. Australian Labor Party disclosing receipts from Senator Newman—The answer to the Savengal Pty Ltd and Snowdeal Pty Ltd was lodged with the Australian Electoral Commission in honourable senator’s question is as follows: December 1998, prior to public release of the (1) The report was completed and presented to return on 1 February 1999. the President of the Senate pursuant to Standing Order 166 on 30 October 1998. The President (2) The AEC has confirmed that the Australian tabled the report in the Senate on 10 November Securities and Investments Commission database: 1998. * has no entry for a company by the name of (2) The Australian National Audit Office provid- Savengal Pty Ltd; and ed the Department of Social Security with an unqualified audit report on 6 October 1998. The * shows a registered company address for signed certificate is reproduced in the Annual Snowdeal Pty Ltd that is different from the Report. address listed in the disclosure return lodged for the New South Wales branch of the Aus- Goods and Services Tax: Funding for the tralian Labor Party. Alice Springs to Darwin Railway (3) These matters raised will be considered as (Question No. 1149) part of the AEC’s programmed compliance investi- gation of the New South Wales branch of the Senator Crossin asked the Minister repre- Australian Labor Party. senting the Minister for Transport and Re- Monday, 9 August 1999 SENATE 7097 gional Services, upon notice, on 25 June (2) The Treasury advises that the GST should not 1999: add to the cost of construction of the railway, and (1) Will the goods and services tax (GST) be is more likely to result in a reduction. payable on the Federal Government’s $100 million This is because, while a business will have to funding to the Northern Territory Government for pay GST on its inputs, it will receive input tax the Alice Springs to Darwin railway. credits for that tax. This makes business inputs (2) Will the GST increase the cost of construc- effectively not subject to the GST, which together tion of the proposed Alice Springs to Darwin with the abolition of the existing wholesale sales railway; if so, how much will a GST add to the tax and certain other State taxes, produces a cost overall cost of construction. saving. Senator Ian Macdonald—The Minister for In turn the business will be liable to GST on the Transport and Regional Services has provided value of goods or services it sells and would pass the following answer to the honourable this on in its price. The price increase from the tax senator’s question: reform should be an amount equivalent to the GST, (1) The Commonwealth’s commitment of $100 net of cost savings from the abolition of existing million from its Centenary of Federation Fund for indirect taxes. the construction of the Alice Springs to Darwin rail This effect will apply to the construction of the link will constitute a taxable grant for the purposes railway as much as to any other business activity. of GST. $30 million of the grant is expected to be paid in this financial year under the existing During the construction phase, the railway will be taxation regime and the remaining $70 million to able to claim input tax credits for the GST on be paid in subsequent financial years and will be goods and services used and, if the credits exceed subject to GST. tax liabilities, obtain a refund of the tax paid.