PARLIAMENT OF VICTORIA
PARLIAMENTARY DEBATES (HANSARD)
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY
FIFTY-SEVENTH PARLIAMENT
FIRST SESSION
Tuesday, 15 October 2013 (Extract from book 13)
Internet: www.parliament.vic.gov.au/downloadhansard
By authority of the Victorian Government Printer
The Governor The Honourable ALEX CHERNOV, AC, QC The Lieutenant-Governor The Honourable Justice MARILYN WARREN, AC The ministry (from 22 April 2013)
Premier, Minister for Regional Cities and Minister for Racing ...... The Hon. D. V. Napthine, MP
Deputy Premier, Minister for State Development, and Minister for Regional and Rural Development ...... The Hon. P. J. Ryan, MP
Treasurer ...... The Hon. M. A. O’Brien, MP
Minister for Innovation, Services and Small Business, Minister for Tourism and Major Events, and Minister for Employment and Trade .. The Hon. Louise Asher, MP
Attorney-General, Minister for Finance and Minister for Industrial Relations ...... The Hon. R. W. Clark, MP
Minister for Health and Minister for Ageing ...... The Hon. D. M. Davis, MLC
Minister for Sport and Recreation, and Minister for Veterans’ Affairs .... The Hon. H. F. Delahunty, MP
Minister for Education ...... The Hon. M. F. Dixon, MP
Minister for Planning ...... The Hon. M. J. Guy, MLC
Minister for Higher Education and Skills, and Minister responsible for the Teaching Profession ...... The Hon. P. R. Hall, MLC
Minister for Ports, Minister for Major Projects and Minister for Manufacturing ...... The Hon. D. J. Hodgett, MP
Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship, and Minister for Energy and Resources ...... The Hon. N. Kotsiras, MP
Minister for Housing, and Minister for Children and Early Childhood Development ...... The Hon. W. A. Lovell, MLC
Minister for Public Transport and Minister for Roads ...... The Hon. T. W. Mulder, MP
Minister for Liquor and Gaming Regulation, Minister for Corrections and Minister for Crime Prevention ...... The Hon. E. J. O’Donohue, MLC
Minister for Local Government and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs ...... The Hon. E. J. Powell, MP
Assistant Treasurer, Minister for Technology and Minister responsible for the Aviation Industry ...... The Hon. G. K. Rich-Phillips, MLC
Minister for Environment and Climate Change, and Minister for Youth Affairs ...... The Hon. R. Smith, MP
Minister for the Arts, Minister for Women’s Affairs and Minister for Consumer Affairs ...... The Hon. H. Victoria, MP
Minister for Agriculture and Food Security, and Minister for Water ...... The Hon. P. L. Walsh, MP
Minister for Police and Emergency Services, and Minister for Bushfire Response ...... The Hon. K. A. Wells, MP
Minister for Mental Health, Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Disability Services and Reform ...... The Hon. M. L. N. Wooldridge, MP
Cabinet Secretary ...... Mr N. Wakeling, MP
Legislative Assembly committees
Privileges Committee — Ms Barker, Mr Clark, Ms Green, Mr Hodgett, Mr Morris, Mr Nardella, Mr O’Brien, Mr Pandazopoulos and Mr Walsh. Standing Orders Committee — The Speaker, Ms Allan, Ms Asher, Ms Barker, Mrs Fyffe, Mr Hodgett, Ms Kairouz and Mrs Powell.
Joint committees
Accountability and Oversight Committee — (Assembly): Ms Kanis, Mr McIntosh and Ms Neville. (Council): Mr O’Brien and Mr P. Davis. Dispute Resolution Committee — (Assembly): Ms Allan, Ms Asher, Mr Clark, Ms Hennessy, Mr Merlino, Mr O’Brien and Mr Walsh. (Council): Mr D. Davis, Mr Hall, Mr Lenders, Ms Lovell and Ms Pennicuik. Economic Development, Infrastructure and Outer Suburban/Interface Services Committee — (Assembly): Mr Burgess, Mrs Fyffe, Mr McGuire and Mr Shaw. (Council): Mrs Peulich. Education and Training Committee — (Assembly): Mr Brooks and Mr Crisp. (Council): Mr Elasmar and Mrs Kronberg. Electoral Matters Committee — (Assembly): Mr Northe. (Council): Mr Finn, Mrs Peulich, Mr Somyurek and Mr Tarlamis. Environment and Natural Resources Committee — (Assembly): Mr Bull, Ms Duncan, Mr Pandazopoulos and Ms Wreford. (Council): Mr Koch. Family and Community Development Committee — (Assembly): Ms Halfpenny, Mr McGuire and Mr Wakeling. (Council): Mrs Coote, Ms Crozier and Mr O’Brien. House Committee — (Assembly): The Speaker (ex officio), Ms Beattie, Mr Burgess, Ms Campbell, Mrs Fyffe, Ms Thomson and Mr Weller. (Council): The President (ex officio), Mr Drum, Mr Eideh, Mr Finn, Ms Hartland, and Mr P. Davis. Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission Committee — (Assembly): Ms Hennessy, Mr McIntosh, Mr Newton-Brown and Mr Weller. (Council): Mr Viney. Law Reform, Drugs and Crime Prevention Committee — (Assembly): Mr Carroll, Mr McCurdy and Mr Southwick. (Council): Mr Ramsay and Mr Scheffer. Public Accounts and Estimates Committee — (Assembly): Mr Angus, Ms Hennessey, Mr Morris, Mr Pakula and Mr Scott. (Council): Mr O’Brien and Mr Ondarchie. Road Safety Committee — (Assembly): Mr Languiller, Mr Perera, Mr Tilley and Mr Thompson. (Council): Mr Elsbury. Rural and Regional Committee — (Assembly): Mr Howard, Mr Katos, Mr Trezise and Mr Weller. (Council): Mr Drum. Scrutiny of Acts and Regulations Committee — (Assembly): Ms Barker, Ms Campbell, Mr Gidley, Mr Nardella, Dr Sykes and Mr Watt. (Council): Mr Dalla-Riva.
Heads of parliamentary departments
Assembly — Clerk of the Parliaments and Clerk of the Legislative Assembly: Mr R. W. Purdey Council — Clerk of the Legislative Council: Mr W. R. Tunnecliffe Parliamentary Services — Secretary: Mr P. Lochert
MEMBERS OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY FIFTY-SEVENTH PARLIAMENT — FIRST SESSION Speaker: The Hon. K. M. SMITH Deputy Speaker: Mrs C. A. FYFFE Acting Speakers: Mr Angus, Ms Beattie, Mr Blackwood, Mr Burgess, Ms Campbell, Mr Gidley, Mr Languiller, Mr McCurdy, Mr McIntosh, Ms McLeish, Mr Morris, Mr Nardella, Mr Northe, Mr Pandazopoulos, Ms Ryall, Dr Sykes, Mr Thompson and Mr Weller. Leader of the Parliamentary Liberal Party and Premier: The Hon. D. V. NAPTHINE (from 6 March 2013) The Hon. E. N. BAILLIEU (to 6 March 2013) Deputy Leader of the Parliamentary Liberal Party: The Hon. LOUISE ASHER Leader of The Nationals and Deputy Premier: The Hon. P. J. RYAN Deputy Leader of The Nationals: The Hon. P. L. WALSH Leader of the Parliamentary Labor Party and Leader of the Opposition: The Hon. D. M. ANDREWS Deputy Leader of the Parliamentary Labor Party and Deputy Leader of the Opposition: The Hon. J. A. MERLINO
Member District Party Member District Party Allan, Ms Jacinta Marie Bendigo East ALP Languiller, Mr Telmo Ramon Derrimut ALP Andrews, Mr Daniel Michael Mulgrave ALP Lim, Mr Muy Hong Clayton ALP Angus, Mr Neil Andrew Warwick Forest Hill LP McCurdy, Mr Timothy Logan Murray Valley Nats Asher, Ms Louise Brighton LP McGuire, Mr Frank 6 Broadmeadows ALP Baillieu, Mr Edward Norman Hawthorn LP McIntosh, Mr Andrew John Kew LP Barker, Ms Ann Patricia Oakleigh ALP McLeish, Ms Lucinda Gaye Seymour LP Battin, Mr Bradley William Gembrook LP Madden, Mr Justin Mark Essendon ALP Bauer, Mrs Donna Jane Carrum LP Merlino, Mr James Anthony Monbulk ALP Beattie, Ms Elizabeth Jean Yuroke ALP Miller, Ms Elizabeth Eileen Bentleigh LP Blackwood, Mr Gary John Narracan LP Morris, Mr David Charles Mornington LP Brooks, Mr Colin William Bundoora ALP Mulder, Mr Terence Wynn Polwarth LP Brumby, Mr John Mansfield 1 Broadmeadows ALP Napthine, Dr Denis Vincent South-West Coast LP Bull, Mr Timothy Owen Gippsland East Nats Nardella, Mr Donato Antonio Melton ALP Burgess, Mr Neale Ronald Hastings LP Neville, Ms Lisa Mary Bellarine ALP Campbell, Ms Christine Mary Pascoe Vale ALP Newton-Brown, Mr Clement Arundel Prahran LP Carbines, Mr Anthony Richard Ivanhoe ALP Noonan, Mr Wade Mathew Williamstown ALP Carroll, Mr Benjamin Alan 2 Niddrie ALP Northe, Mr Russell John Morwell Nats Clark, Mr Robert William Box Hill LP O’Brien, Mr Michael Anthony Malvern LP Crisp, Mr Peter Laurence Mildura Nats Pakula, Mr Martin Philip 7 Lyndhurst ALP D’Ambrosio, Ms Liliana Mill Park ALP Pallas, Mr Timothy Hugh Tarneit ALP Delahunty, Mr Hugh Francis Lowan Nats Pandazopoulos, Mr John Dandenong ALP Dixon, Mr Martin Francis Nepean LP Perera, Mr Jude Cranbourne ALP Donnellan, Mr Luke Anthony Narre Warren North ALP Pike, Ms Bronwyn Jane 8 Melbourne ALP Duncan, Ms Joanne Therese Macedon ALP Powell, Mrs Elizabeth Jeanette Shepparton Nats Edwards, Ms Janice Maree Bendigo West ALP Richardson, Ms Fiona Catherine Alison Northcote ALP Eren, Mr John Hamdi Lara ALP Ryall, Ms Deanne Sharon Mitcham LP Foley, Mr Martin Peter Albert Park ALP Ryan, Mr Peter Julian Gippsland South Nats Fyffe, Mrs Christine Ann Evelyn LP Scott, Mr Robin David Preston ALP Garrett, Ms Jane Furneaux Brunswick ALP Shaw, Mr Geoffrey Page 9 Frankston Ind Gidley, Mr Michael Xavier Charles Mount Waverley LP Smith, Mr Kenneth Maurice Bass LP Graley, Ms Judith Ann Narre Warren South ALP Smith, Mr Ryan Warrandyte LP Green, Ms Danielle Louise Yan Yean ALP Southwick, Mr David James Caulfield LP Halfpenny, Ms Bronwyn Thomastown ALP Sykes, Dr William Everett Benalla Nats Helper, Mr Jochen Ripon ALP Thompson, Mr Murray Hamilton Ross Sandringham LP Hennessy, Ms Jill Altona ALP Thomson, Ms Marsha Rose Footscray ALP Herbert, Mr Steven Ralph Eltham ALP Tilley, Mr William John Benambra LP Hodgett, Mr David John Kilsyth LP Trezise, Mr Ian Douglas Geelong ALP Holding, Mr Timothy James 3 Lyndhurst ALP Victoria, Ms Heidi Bayswater LP Howard, Mr Geoffrey Kemp Ballarat East ALP Wakeling, Mr Nicholas Ferntree Gully LP Hulls, Mr Rob Justin 4 Niddrie ALP Walsh, Mr Peter Lindsay Swan Hill Nats Hutchins, Ms Natalie Maree Sykes Keilor ALP Watt, Mr Graham Travis Burwood LP Kairouz, Ms Marlene Kororoit ALP Weller, Mr Paul Rodney Nats Kanis, Ms Jennifer 5 Melbourne ALP Wells, Mr Kimberley Arthur Scoresby LP Katos, Mr Andrew South Barwon LP Wooldridge, Ms Mary Louise Newling Doncaster LP Knight, Ms Sharon Patricia Ballarat West ALP Wreford, Ms Lorraine Joan Mordialloc LP Kotsiras, Mr Nicholas Bulleen LP Wynne, Mr Richard William Richmond ALP
1 Resigned 21 December 2010 6 Elected 19 February 2011 2 Elected 24 March 2012 7 Elected 27 April 2013 3 Resigned 18 February 2013 8 Resigned 7 May 2012 4 Resigned 27 January 2012 9 LP until 6 March 2013 5 Elected 21 July 2012
CONTENTS
TUESDAY, 15 OCTOBER 2013 MEMBERS STATEMENTS Workplace bullying ...... 3304 ABSENCE OF MINISTERS ...... 3285 Science and innovation awards ...... 3305 QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE Angel Calderon ...... 3305 Frankston Hospital funding ...... 3285, 3287, 3289, Police stations ...... 3305 3292, 3293 Thomastown electorate constituent ...... 3306 East Werribee employment precinct ...... 3286 Breast Cancer Awareness Month ...... 3306 Desalination plant ...... 3288 Shooting and hunting events ...... 3306 Budget 2012–13 ...... 3289 Brooklyn industrial precinct pollution ...... 3306 Frankston ambulance services ...... 3290 Century Club afternoon tea ...... 3307 Western suburbs education facilities ...... 3291 Federal government ministry ...... 3307 Western suburbs public transport ...... 3293, 3294 Walsh Street shootings anniversary ...... 3307 SUSPENSION OF MEMBERS Sporting club volunteers ...... 3308 Member for Albert Park ...... 3288 Cranbourne electorate roads ...... 3308 Member for Kororoit ...... 3292 Mildura speedway ...... 3308 Member for Bendigo East ...... 3293 Cardross spring show ...... 3308 Member for Tarneit ...... 3294 Regional leaders forum ...... 3308 City of Hume Sunbury plebiscite ...... 3308 ENERGY LEGISLATION AMENDMENT (GENERAL) BILL 2013 Shindig at Mordialloc Life Saving Club ...... 3309 Introduction and first reading...... 3294 Parkdale Family and Children’s Centre ...... 3309 Rotary Club of Mordialloc...... 3309 COURTS AND OTHER JUSTICE LEGISLATION Woodlands Golf Club ...... 3309 AMENDMENT BILL 2013 Plan Melbourne ...... 3309 Introduction and first reading...... 3294 South Barwon electorate community facilities ...... 3309 STATE TAXATION AND FINANCIAL LEGISLATION Police and emergency services Waurn Ponds AMENDMENT BILL 2013 facility ...... 3309 Introduction and first reading...... 3295 Pat Smith ...... 3310 TRANSPORT ACCIDENT AMENDMENT BILL 2013 headspace Sunshine ...... 3310 Introduction and first reading...... 3295 East Gippsland Business Awards ...... 3310 TRANSPORT ACCIDENT FURTHER AMENDMENT Darcie and Damon Morton ...... 3310 BILL 2013 Keith Henderson ...... 3310 Introduction and first reading...... 3295 Toorloo Arm Country Fire Authority brigade ...... 3310 DRUGS, POISONS AND CONTROLLED The Age Music Victoria Awards...... 3310 SUBSTANCES AMENDMENT BILL 2013 Anthony Traill and Rhiannon Murrie ...... 3311 Introduction and first reading...... 3295 Blessing of the animals ...... 3311 VICTORIA POLICE BILL 2013 Prahran Greek Orthodox community ...... 3311 Introduction and first reading...... 3295 worldOutgames ...... 3311 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT BILL 2013 Stonnington Primary School ...... 3311 Introduction and first reading...... 3295 Dianella Community Health ...... 3311 PROFESSIONAL BOXING AND COMBAT SPORTS ROAD LEGISLATION AMENDMENT BILL 2013 AMENDMENT BILL 2013 Introduction and first reading...... 3296 Second reading ...... 3311, 3318 BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE RULINGS BY THE CHAIR Notices of motion ...... 3296 Parliament House incident ...... 3318 Program ...... 3300 CORRECTIONS AMENDMENT (PAROLE REFORM) PETITIONS BILL 2013 Epping Road duplication ...... 3296 Second reading ...... 3332 Northern suburbs bus services ...... 3296 ADJOURNMENT Doreen road safety ...... 3296 Carrum Downs Secondary College ...... 3348 Donnybrook railway station ...... 3297 Midsumma Festival ...... 3348 Supported accommodation fees ...... 3297 Education conveyance allowance ...... 3349 SCRUTINY OF ACTS AND REGULATIONS Support Small Business Day ...... 3349 COMMITTEE East–west link ...... 3350 Alert Digest No. 13 ...... 3297 Carwarp thermal power station ...... 3351 Statute Law Revision Bill 2013 ...... 3297 Springvale needle exchange program ...... 3351 DOCUMENTS ...... 3298 Burwood electorate youth forum ...... 3352 ROYAL ASSENT ...... 3299 Lara electorate railway noise pollution ...... 3352 APPROPRIATION MESSAGES ...... 3300 Mount Waverley electorate public safety...... 3353 Responses ...... 3353
QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
Tuesday, 15 October 2013 ASSEMBLY 3285
Tuesday, 15 October 2013 him of the improvements we have made to health services in Frankston since we came to government. The SPEAKER (Hon. Ken Smith) took the chair at When we came to government the budget for the 2.04 p.m. and read the prayer. Frankston Hospital, or Peninsula Health, was $315 million. The current budget for the Frankston ABSENCE OF MINISTERS Hospital is $372.4 million, which is an increase of $56.9 million. That is an 18 per cent increase in funding The SPEAKER — Order! I wish to advise the for the Frankston Hospital since we took over house that the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and government and since we took over the health system Citizenship, who is also the Minister for Energy and from the former Minister for Health, the current Leader Resources, will be absent from question time today. of the Opposition. Questions for the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship should be addressed to the We know, and I can advise the house, that the number Attorney-General, and questions for the portfolio of of people on the elective surgery waiting list at energy and resources should be addressed to the Peninsula Health is lower today than when we came to Treasurer. government. I can tell the house that the number of people receiving elective surgery is actually higher now Mr Merlino — On a point of order, Speaker, I than when we came to government. I can tell the house understand that half an hour ago a member of this that since we came to government the number of Parliament — allegedly the member for Frankston — patients treated at Frankston’s emergency department assaulted a member of the public on the front steps of has increased by 5500 people. There is more funding, the Parliament building. I ask that you investigate this more patients are being treated and more patients are serious incident as a matter of urgency and report back being treated at the emergency department. to this chamber, and I ask that any CCTV footage is immediately released to Victoria Police. I can also tell the house that since we came to government there are now 48 more doctors and The SPEAKER — Order! I have been made aware 53 more nurses at the Frankston Hospital. I explain to of the incident. I have asked for the CCTV footage and house that in the 11 years Labor members were in for some members who were present to speak to me. government — 11 years of neglect where they could not use their GPS or their Melway to find their way to Mr Merlino — Further to the point of order, Frankston — — Speaker, can I ask for the time line for your reporting back to the house? Mr Pallas — On a point of order, Speaker, question time is not a time for the Premier to talk about the The SPEAKER — Order! I will be doing it as record of the previous government but to answer the quickly as I can. It is as simple as that. question that has been directed to him. Might I say that he should show a shred of human compassion about the QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE real victim involved in this.
Frankston Hospital funding The SPEAKER — Order! The question related to Frankston Hospital, a hospital crisis and an ambulance, Mr MERLINO (Monbulk) — My question is to the and the answer was relevant to the question that was Premier. At today’s people’s forum in Frankston, asked. hosted by the Leader of the Opposition, Rosemary Chesney told us the story of her husband, Ian, who was Dr NAPTHINE — What I can tell the people of a tragic victim of the crisis in Victoria’s hospital Frankston is that over 11 years under Labor the total system. Ian suffered a heart attack after waiting in an amount of money spent on capital works at Frankston ambulance at Frankston Hospital for 2 hours. Because Hospital was $71 million. I can tell the people of the Frankston cardiac lab was shut, Ian had to be Frankston — — transferred by ambulance to the Monash Medical Centre in Clayton, but he died en route. In light of Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, under Rosemary’s story, will the Premier now concede that standing order 58 and changes to sessional orders far from services at Frankston Hospital improving, the answers to questions must be relevant. The question did situation is in fact worse than it has ever been? not relate to the previous government’s administration; it related to a tragic circumstance where a man passed Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — I thank the Deputy away as a result of the crisis in the hospital system. We Leader of the Opposition for his question. I can advise
QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
3286 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 15 October 2013
ask you to bring the Premier back to answering that coalition government’s initiative to grow jobs and question rather than debating the issue. opportunities?
The SPEAKER — Order! I have said to members Ms Allan interjected. of this house previously that any preamble — in this case it included hospitals and ambulances — becomes The SPEAKER — Order! The member for part of the question. I do not uphold the point of order. Bendigo East!
Dr NAPTHINE — What I was saying to the people Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — I thank the of Frankston, through you, Speaker, was that during honourable member for South Barwon for his question. 11 years of Labor the former government spent There is no doubt that the city of Wyndham is one of $71 million on capital works at Frankston Hospital. We the fastest growing areas in Australia. Indeed 11 babies have been in government for two and a half years and a day are being born in the city of Wyndham and we have spent $92 million on capital works at 10 families a day are moving into the that city, and it is Frankston. We are investing in 92 extra beds. We are expected that its population will exceed 250 000 by investing $40 million in a whole new emergency 2025. One of the key challenges for a government and department. I was very proudly down in Frankston the community is to provide the jobs and economic turning the first sod — — opportunities in Wyndham to meet the needs of this rapidly growing community. That is why last week the Mr Merlino — On a point of order, Speaker, the whole coalition cabinet was there in Werribee, in Premier is not being relevant to the question. The Wyndham, meeting with the local council and talking question related to Rosemary Chesney and her to local community leaders. husband, who passed away. Rosemary stood up in Frankston today — — During that visit with the Minister for Planning, I was pleased to release the structure plan for the very The SPEAKER — Order! A point of order is not an exciting and innovative East Werribee employment opportunity to repeat the question. It is not a point of precinct. This precinct, on the site of the former State order, and I do not uphold it. Research Farm, is a unique site which presents an opportunity for development and the creation of new Dr NAPTHINE — What I can say to the people of job opportunities in the Wyndham council area and Frankston, through you, Speaker, is that after 11 years other parts of Melbourne’s west. The structure plan of neglect under the Labor government, we as a provides for 58 000 new jobs to be created in that government are investing over $90 million in upgrading employment precinct, 7000 new homes, 20 000 local that hospital, including a new emergency department. residents and 170 hectares of waterways and open We are delivering 18 per cent more in recurrent space. funding. We are reducing the waiting lists. We are treating more patients. We are putting more patients As you will understand, Speaker, when you create through the emergency department. We have got more 58 000 new jobs and bring 20 000 new residents to an doctors, and we have got more nurses. We are taking area, you have a net import of jobs from other parts of these issues seriously because we listen and we care the city of Wyndham, so people in Tarneit, Truganina, about the people of Frankston. Wyndham Vale and Manor Lakes will have the opportunity to get jobs in the west — in the East We care about delivering improved health services. We Werribee employment precinct — as will people right put our money where our mouth is. We do not treat the across the growing western suburbs of Melbourne. This people of Frankston with contempt; we actually go and is a great and unique opportunity for employment visit Frankston. We listen to the people of Frankston. growth in this area. We put more money into recurrent funding. We put more money into capital works. We are delivering an What is different about this project is that it is being run improved health service after 11 years of neglect under by a coalition government. We are investing up-front in Labor. $70 million of key infrastructure, including $40 million for a full diamond interchange at the Sneydes Road and East Werribee employment precinct Princes Highway intersection. The upgrade of the Hoppers Lane intersection as well as the upgrade of the Mr KATOS (South Barwon) — My question is to western end of the Sneydes Road intersection were the Premier. Can the Premier advise the house how neglected by a Labor government for 11 years. We are families in Melbourne’s west will benefit from the
QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
Tuesday, 15 October 2013 ASSEMBLY 3287
turning Sneydes Road into one of the great boulevards for Health, now the Leader of the Opposition, who of Melbourne and Victoria. failed to invest in Frankston as he should.
This employment precinct will be a great place to live Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, I fail to and a great place to work, and these jobs will integrate see how under standing order 58 the very direct with the 2000 jobs already in this region — at Werribee question about the circumstances at the Frankston Mercy Hospital, the expansion of which this Hospital around the closure of the cardiac lab on government announced in the last budget; at the weekends and about whether the Premier will provide expanding Wyndham Private Medical Centre; and at the funding to open it now has anything to do with the the proposed St Vincent’s private hospital, which will previous 11 years of Labor administration. There was also have major investment. The Melbourne University no mention of the previous 11 years in the preamble to veterinary school, which I know well, is also expanding my question, and I ask that you bring the Premier back and creating job opportunities, as is the University of to answering a with a very direct yes or no, without Notre Dame Australia clinical school. There is already attacking the former government, which does not help a nucleus of high-value jobs in that region, and the East the Chesney family. Werribee employment precinct will build on that. The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point We are creating jobs where people live — in the growth of order. areas of Melbourne’s west. That is what the community is on about and that is why Cr Heather Marcus, the Dr NAPTHINE — I am outlining the context of the mayor of the City of Wyndham, told us both at the situation we inherited when we came to government. community cabinet and publicly that this coalition We are trying to fix the problems we inherited because government has invested more and done more for the of the neglect of the previous government, particularly city of Wyndham and for Werribee than any other the neglect of the people of the Frankston area with government in the last 10 years. regard to health services. That is why what we have done since we came to government is to massively Frankston Hospital funding increase funding for Peninsula Health. Under Labor, Peninsula Health received $315 million in the 2010–11 Ms ALLAN (Bendigo East) — My question is to budget. Under our 2013–14 budget it received the Premier. Again at today’s peoples forum, hosted by $372.4 million, an extra $56.9 million and an 18.1 per the Leader of the Opposition, Rosemary — — cent increase in funding.
An honourable member interjected. We give that money to the hospital management and staff, and they are entrusted to use it in the best interests Ms ALLAN — This is about Rosemary Chesney’s of treating patients in that area. What the professionals husband, so we will just get through the question first, at that health service have done is employ 48 more shall we? At today’s people’s forum, hosted by the doctors and 53 more nurses. They are treating more Leader of the Opposition, Rosemary Chesney told how patients in the emergency department. They are doing her husband was unable to get the care he needed at his additional surgeries and reducing the waiting lists, and local hospital because the Frankston cardiac lab is we are assisting them by investing in key capital works closed on weekends. In light of this tragedy, will the that will make a real difference in Frankston. Premier now stop his boasting and ensure that Frankston Hospital has sufficient funds to open this After years of neglect we are investing $92.2 million in vital service on weekends so that no other patients are capital works at the Frankston Hospital. Included in that put at risk as Rosemary’s husband was? is $40 million for a new emergency department so that we have a better and more efficient emergency Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — I thank the department to treat those patients and to match patient honourable member for her question. Frankston growth and population growth in the area. We are Hospital is an important hospital delivering vital investing nearly $36 million to create additional beds. I services to the people of Frankston and that subregion. am advised that there will be an extra 92 beds at the When we came to government we inherited a situation Frankston Hospital when the program of investments in at Frankston where the hospital was underfunded, Frankston is put in place. After 11 years of neglect underresourced and did not have the capital under Labor, 11 years of being treated with contempt infrastructure that was needed after 11 years of neglect by Labor, 11 years — — under the Labor government and the former Minister
QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
3288 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 15 October 2013
Ms Allan — On a point of order, Speaker, under news for Melbourne water customers. As all members standing order 58(1)(a) answers questions must be of the house would know, the previous government factual. It is an absolute disgrace that the Premier is built the Wonthaggi desalination plant. At the time the attacking the opposition when someone has died. debate was not around whether there should be a desalination plant but about its size, expense and The SPEAKER — Order! What is the member’s proximity to Melbourne. We all know that the previous point of order? government put in place the biggest plant in the Southern Hemisphere — too big, too expensive and too Ms Allan — We asked a very simple question about far away from Melbourne, being 80 kilometres from the whether the Premier will provide funding to ensure this Cardinia Reservoir. cardiac lab is opened. We seek an answer to that question without the disgraceful attack. This morning the government was able to announce that after very long, protracted and robust negotiations The SPEAKER — Order! I do not uphold the point with AquaSure, the $1.3 billion in claims against the of order. state for that project have been resolved. With the Dr NAPTHINE — In summary, we are advising state’s consent, AquaSure has refinanced $3.7 billion of the people of Frankston that this government bares its debt. As we all know, the project was financed at the genuinely about additional health services. That is why height of the global financial crisis. There has been the we have put in 18 per cent more funding, that is why opportunity to create value by negotiations between the we are treating more patients, that is why we have put state and AquaSure — or Thiess, Degrémont and Suez on more doctors and nurses and that is why we have Environnement, the builders — to create value out of invested in major capital works. I also advise that the that refinancing in the best interests of both AquaSure hours of operation of the cardiac catheter lab are the and Melbourne water customers. same now as they were under the previous government. The $1.3 billion of claims against the state was around Honourable members interjecting. claims for what were called cyclonic weather events at Wonthaggi as the plant was being built. It was around Questions interrupted. claims for industrial relations issues at the plant while it was being built. It was around claims for water revenue SUSPENSION OF MEMBER during the commissioning phase. As many members of the house would know, because there was a zero water Member for Albert Park order there was no requirement on the state to pay for the water that was produced in the commissioning of The SPEAKER — Order! Under standing the plant. All those claims have now been resolved. It is order 124, I ask the honourable member for Albert Park a great weight lifted off both the state and Melbourne to vacate the chamber for an hour. water customers that that $1.3 billion is off the table. It has also avoided a long and protracted legal battle Honourable member for Albert Park withdrew involving tens of millions of dollars in legal fees from from chamber. both sides of the debate. That is a really good outcome.
QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE With the refinancing of the debt, with the hedges that will be put in place over the next two or three months, Questions resumed. the fixed charges for the desalination plant each year will be lower and there will be an opportunity for Desalination plant savings for Melbourne water customers out of that. Mr GIDLEY (Mount Waverley) — My question is Once the hedges are in place, once we have quantified to the Minister for Water. Can the minister inform the the actual savings, we will make an announcement house of how Melbourne water customers will benefit about what the savings are and what benefits from today’s announcement of a resolution to the Melbourne water customers can expect to get out of desalination plant claims against the state? that.
Mr WALSH (Minister for Water) — I thank the When we were elected we said we would work very member for Mount Waverley for his question and for hard in the best interests of Melbourne water customers the interest he has taken in this issue on behalf of when it came to this project. In February 2011 the then Melbourne water customers in his electorate. This Premier, the member for Hawthorn, and I announced morning I had the opportunity to announce some great what was actually in the contract. Members of the
QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE
Tuesday, 15 October 2013 ASSEMBLY 3289
previous government have alluded to the contract being we have been in government is 14.6 per cent. But it is about $400 million per year. As we were able to interesting to note that in some areas we need to announce at that time, the fixed charges were over increase health funding by even more than that. One of $650 million per year. We put the facts out there for those areas which was neglected previously is the Melbourne water customers and in particular for Frankston Hospital. Melbourne Water, which had not been told about these issues. For the Frankston Hospital we have not just increased funding by 14.6 per cent; we have increased it by Over the journey we have been able to negotiate a 18.1 per cent. This is a government that genuinely cares better electricity licensing deal, through which we have about the people of Frankston, genuinely listens to the saved Melbourne water customers $13 million per year. people of Frankston and genuinely responds to their We have been able to negotiate a favourable tax ruling needs in terms of improved health services. That is why on that electricity contract, saving $5.6 million per year. we have increased the number of doctors at Frankston The zero water order for two years has saved something Hospital, that is why we have increased the number of like $200 million in costs for Melbourne water nurses at Frankston Hospital and that is why, as at customers for desalination water. 30 June this year, the number of people on elective surgery waiting lists at Peninsula Health is lower than We have heard a lot about the opposition leader being when we came to government in December 2010. in Frankston. I would hope that at that public forum he is standing up and apologising to the people of That is why the number of elective surgeries performed Frankston and broader Melbourne for the white is higher under this government than under the previous elephant desalination plant he has left Melbourne water government. That is why the number of people who customers with. front and get treated at the emergency department is 5468 more patients than when we came to government. Frankston Hospital funding We understand that when you have got a growing community and growing community demand for health Mr PALLAS (Tarneit) — My question is to the services that you also need to invest in key Premier. After $826 million in health cuts, the infrastructure. That is why we are spending $40 million government’s figures forecast that at 30 June next year on a new emergency department and investing there will be 1856 people waiting in pain for surgery at $36 million in additional beds. Frankston Hospital, an increase of 211 in 12 months. I ask the Premier: given that the situation at Frankston We are getting a new emergency department, 92 extra Hospital is in fact worse than it has ever been, are his beds, extra money, extra nurses and extra doctors boasts about improving services not just a cruel hoax on because we genuinely care. We do not just talk about those patients waiting in pain for surgery? caring; we deliver. We match our rhetoric with real funding increases in acute funding and real funding Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — I thank the increases for capital works, because there is no point honourable member for his question. The question went saying you care if you do not deliver, and we say we to the amount of funding for health across Victoria. I care and we deliver. am pleased to tell the honourable member that health funding has increased significantly under this Budget 2012–13 government. In this year’s budget a record $14.3 billion was allocated for health funding, which included an Mr BULL (Gippsland East) — My question is to extra $2 billion above what was previously allocated by the Treasurer. Can the Treasurer provide an update on the last Labor government, when the Leader of the the final outcome of the coalition government’s Opposition was the Minister for Health; so that is a 2012–13 state budget and the benefits to all Victorian 14 per cent increase in funding for health. families and businesses?
We increased that funding for health because we care Mr O’BRIEN (Treasurer) — I thank the member about the people of Victoria, we care about those who for Gippsland East for his question and for his great need health services, and we care about those who need interest in the state of Victoria’s finances. Yesterday the to go to emergency departments to seek treatment. We Premier and I were pleased to table the annual financial put in additional funding for health. We have put in report for the state of Victoria for 2012–13. At a time funding above and beyond the rate of inflation. We when every government in Australia — national, state have boosted health funding by over $2 billion. As I and territory, except for Victoria — is either in deficit said, the total increase in health funding over the time or forecast to go into deficit over the forward estimates,
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this report demonstrates that the Victorian coalition that rating years ago. The simple fact remains that government’s economic management is securing our Labor cannot manage money, and the economy is state’s future. always better off under a coalition government.
Members may recall that the May 2012 budget Frankston ambulance services projected a surplus for the 2012–13 year of $155 million. This estimate was revised in May this Mr NOONAN (Williamstown) — My question is to year to $177 million. The annual financial report the Premier. I refer to the fact that average ambulance recorded that in fact the surplus delivered for 2012–13 response times in Frankston have blown out by a was $316 million. This healthy surplus was delivered whopping 4 minutes and 22 seconds since 2010, which despite tax revenue being $90 million lower than stated is the second-largest increase in metropolitan in the revised forecast. Importantly the 2012–13 Melbourne. Given that the situation is in fact worse unemployment rate, which was forecast in May this than it has ever been before, are not the Premier’s year to be an average of 5.75 per cent, was 5.6 per cent. boasts about improving services and caring for people We brought in lower unemployment than we forecast just a cruel hoax on those patients waiting in pain for an and a higher surplus than we forecast. ambulance?
Part of the way we have been able to do this is by Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — I thank the restraining backroom bureaucracy and expenses. honourable member for his question and for his interest Expenses were limited to a growth of 2.1 per cent. This in important services such as ambulance services. Let contrasts with Labor, which had an average expenditure me place on the record once again the appreciation of growth of 8 per cent over the decade to 2009–10. Under this government — and I believe of all members of this Labor expenditure growth outstripped revenue growth. house — of the quality of the professional services If any of those opposite had ever run a business, they provided by our paramedics throughout the length and would know you cannot keep having expenditure breadth of this great state of Victoria. growth outstripping revenue growth or you wind up in a structural deficit. We are backing up the quality professional work of the paramedics by providing resources to Ambulance The fact that we have been able to deliver restrained Victoria so it can deliver even better services into the expenditure, a higher surplus than we forecast and a future. That is why we provided $662 million for lower unemployment than we forecast is good news for ambulance services in the 2013–14 state budget. There Victorian families and businesses. We have been able has been a significant increase in funding since we to do this while not only protecting but also enhancing came to government because we care about ambulance and expanding front-line services. That is why, as the services and we want to provide Ambulance Victoria Premier has indicated, we are spending a record amount with the resources it needs to deliver the services the on health. We have a record infrastructure budget. people of Victoria need. I can also advise that that Some of the health projects started in the 2012–13 year $662 million is a 17.3 per cent increase in funding include the new Monash Children’s hospital, the relative to the last budget under the Labor government. upgrade to the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital Even if you take into account the effect of inflation, you and the Geelong Hospital upgrade. see that that is a genuine and real increase in funding for our ambulance services. We are investing more than any government in health care, more than any government in education and more Because we are able to provide a real increase in than any government on roads, public transport and funding for our ambulance services, Ambulance public safety. We can only do this because we are Victoria has been able to put on 465 additional prepared to make the responsible financial decisions paramedics. Today there are 465 more paramedics than that the former government was not prepared to make. there were under the previous government. These We are the only state in the country that has a 465 paramedics are dealing with over 800 000 calls per AAA credit rating with a stable outlook by both major year; there is a significant number of calls coming in ratings agencies. from a growing population. That is why we as a government that cares about ambulance services are Mr Merlino interjected. putting in record levels of funding. That is why Ambulance Victoria has put on 465 paramedics with Mr O’BRIEN — The Deputy Leader of the the funding we have provided. It is also about opening Opposition says that is a surprise. If we had stayed on new ambulance stations and about providing new the path those opposite put us on, we would have lost ambulances and new resources. Indeed we have
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recently opened a new station at Frankston as part of Since we came to government we have invested that process. $57 million in new schools and land to meet growth pressures in that area. In this year’s budget we provided Because we understand the cost of living pressures on $10 million for stage 1 of a new P–9 school at Victorians and Victorian families — — Truganina. That $10 million investment is for state-of-the-art facilities for that community and An honourable member — What? specialist facilities for the school. We have also Dr NAPTHINE — Cost of living pressures; it is provided $11.5 million for a brand-new primary school something you might not know anything about. We in Wyndham Vale. That is going to be built on a site we have provided $242 million to assist each and every purchased in 2011. Construction is about to commence, Victorian to afford an ambulance subscription; we have and we should have students in that school by 2015. halved the cost of ambulance subscriptions. We have also invested $11.5 million in the new Melton North West Primary School. This is just in this year’s Mr Noonan — On a point of order, Speaker, I budget. It comes on top of previous capital investments believe the Premier is debating the question. The in the west. question was not about cost of living; it was about the blow-out in response times at Frankston. I would ask There is $10 million for the Tarneit Central P–9 you to draw him back to the question. College and a further $10 million for the construction of a new P–9 school in the Point Cook area, the The SPEAKER — Order! I ask the Premier to Alamanda K–9 College, which is now open. Students come back to answering the question. and teachers are there this year. In fact the Premier was there last Monday with the Minister for Children and Dr NAPTHINE — We are making it more Early Childhood Development to open a brand new affordable for all Victorians to have an ambulance kindergarten and early childhood learning centre. We subscription, and I urge them to take that up. have worked very closely with the City of Wyndham to provide this facility. It not only provides a one-stop In conclusion, let me say that we are providing a record shop for the parents; it also provides a seamless level of funding for Ambulance Victoria. We are education for our young people, right from the very providing 465 extra paramedics, and we have provided early years, throughout child minding and into early extra ambulance stations and extra ambulances on the learning, kindergarten and primary school. That is a road so that Ambulance Victoria has the wherewithal to great outcome. It is a good example of the state deliver the ambulance services that are needed in this government working with local government in state. Wyndham.
Western suburbs education facilities Of course it is not only new buildings in which we are investing. We had to rebuild the old Galvin Park Ms MILLER (Bentleigh) — My question is to the Secondary College by providing $14 million. It was Minister for Education. Can the minister inform the totally neglected; it had literally fallen down around the house of the coalition government’s progress in ears of its students and teachers. The member for providing enhanced education provision for families in Tarneit just watched it happen. It took this government Melbourne’s western suburbs? to spend $14 million to rebuild that school. I was there Mr DIXON (Minister for Education) — I thank the recently; it looks fantastic and the community is very member for Bentleigh for her question and for her great happy. advocacy for schools in her electorate. This government We provided $9.5 million for the Rosamond Special is committed to providing the best possible educational School to be completely rebuilt. We provided opportunities for all children in Victoria, no matter $16 million to complete the Laverton P–12 College, where they live. One of the great examples of that is our which is co-located in Jennings Street with the first investment in educational opportunities in the autism-specific school in the western suburbs. That is a fast-growing suburbs of Melbourne’s west. It was great fantastic project — — to be out in the city of Wyndham with the Premier and my ministerial colleagues, talking, listening to and An honourable member interjected. working with the local people to provide the services they expect. Mr DIXON — No, you did not do that; we did that. We provided it. Out in the west Werribee Secondary College is the first government secondary college to
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provide the International Baccalaureate diploma in Dr NAPTHINE — The people of Frankston Victoria. It is fantastic for the people of Werribee. We understand that we listen, we care and we deliver. We are making a difference to the education of young do not just talk about these issues; we actually deliver people in Victoria. It does not matter where they are. genuine funding increases. We have increased the There is no better example than the way we look after funding for Peninsula Health’s Frankston Hospital by the educational opportunities for the people of the west. 18.1 per cent. That is 18 per cent more money, which means there are more doctors and more nurses, and Frankston Hospital funding more people are being treated at that hospital. More people are being treated in the emergency department. Mr MERLINO (Monbulk) — My question is to the The people of Frankston understand this, because they Premier. I refer to the following facts: 1856 people can see it before their very eyes when they go to waiting for surgery at Frankston Hospital, 990 people Frankston and go past Frankston Hospital. When waiting in the emergency department for more than members of the Labor Party get a GPS or a Melway and 24 hours, the second-largest increase in ambulance find Frankston — response times, and the story from today’s people’s forum of a patient who died — — Ms Kairouz interjected.
Honourable members interjecting. The SPEAKER — Order! The member for Kororoit! Mr MERLINO — Are we laughing about this again? Are we laughing about someone who died? Dr NAPTHINE — they will see that there is work being done at the — — Honourable members interjecting. Ms Kairouz interjected. The SPEAKER — Order! The house will come to order. The member for Kew! Questions interrupted.
Mr MERLINO — And there was the story from SUSPENSION OF MEMBER today’s people’s forum of a patient who died after he was unable to be treated for a heart attack at Frankston Member for Kororoit Hospital. I ask the Premier very simply: how can he continue to boast, as he has done today, about The SPEAKER — Order! The member for improving services at Frankston Hospital when his own Kororoit can leave the chamber for an hour; she does $826 million in health cuts means that the situation is not know when to stop. now worse than it has ever been? Ms Kairouz — Under which standing order? Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — I thank the Deputy Leader of the Opposition for his question, although I do The SPEAKER — Under standing order 124. The not accept the premise of the latter part of the question member has been thrown out often enough to know because there have not been any cuts to health. What which standing order. we have done is increase funding for health — to $14.3 billion compared to the funding under the Honourable member for Kororoit withdrew from previous government. That is $2 billion more than chamber. when we came to government, so we are spending more on health — a record level of funding — not less. QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE With regard to Peninsula Health — — Frankston Hospital funding Mr Merlino interjected. Questions resumed. Dr NAPTHINE — The Deputy Leader of the Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — The people of Opposition can interject all he likes, but what the Frankston can see that this government is genuinely people of Frankston want to understand is that — — interested in delivering better health services in Honourable members interjecting. Frankston. They can see the works going on to build a new $40 million emergency department to cater for the The SPEAKER — Order! That is enough from the growth in demand. They can see there is a $36 million Deputy Leader of the Opposition and the member for program to expand inpatient beds. They know this Bendigo East! Their interjections are not appreciated. government is delivering 92 beds above and beyond
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what was delivered under the previous government. very strong interest in public transport and the regional They know there is a new short-stay facility being rail link project in the western suburbs. The regional created at Frankston. They know there are works going rail link project is steaming ahead. It is a $4.8 billion on in Frankston to match the increase in recurrent project that is running ahead of time and within budget. funding. What I would say to the people of Frankston It is a capacity-building project for Victoria’s public is: judge people by what they do, not what they say. transport system. It will deliver 33 additional services, of which 23 will be in Melbourne and 10 in regional The people who really care about Frankston — the Victoria; a range of new railway stations at Wyndham people who really listen to the people of Frankston — Vale, Tarneit and West Footscray; and upgrades to are on this side of the house. Footscray and Sunshine stations.
Honourable members interjecting. What a great boost to Victoria’s economy — $25 million a week is being injected into the Victorian Dr NAPTHINE — The people who genuinely go economy as this project steams ahead. There has been a down there and genuinely listen to the people of great deal of cooperation between the contractors and Frankston, not merely as part of some political workers on site and the Regional Rail Link Authority, stunt — — which has enabled us to have extended shutdowns so Honourable members interjecting. that we could do major pieces of work that will bring this project home a lot sooner than would have been the Questions interrupted. case under the former government.
SUSPENSION OF MEMBER The Premier and I were at West Footscray on Sunday for the opening of the West Footscray station. It was in Member for Bendigo East October 1888 that they first had trains at the station at West Footscray, and 125 years later the Premier of The SPEAKER — Order! The house will come to Victoria and I opened a new station in the western order, and the member for Bendigo East can leave the suburbs. It is a fantastic building that is all about chamber for an hour under standing order 124. The accessibility. We did not want to repeat the problems of member should leave as quickly as possible. the Laverton station, compliments of the former Minister for Public Transport. We did not want to Honourable member for Bendigo East withdrew repeat that failing whereby the lifts would not take from chamber. ambulance trolleys and would continually break down, stranding people on station platforms. This station now QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE has lifts, ramps and stairs to make sure there is absolute accessibility for all members of the community — and Frankston Hospital funding they all work.
Questions resumed. In relation to the western suburbs, there are extra trains and buses. Since 2010 the government has ordered Dr NAPTHINE (Premier) — The people who 15 new X’trapolis trains and introduced 1078 extra genuinely care about Frankston are on this side of the metropolitan train trips per week across Melbourne. house, and we are delivering increased recurrent The Werribee line has received an additional 37 train funding, more doctors, more nurses and $90 million trips every week day, including 8 new peak trips in the worth of redevelopment at Frankston Hospital. That is 2011 timetable change. It is a massive upgrade and putting your money where your mouth is, caring about improvement. The April 2013 timetable change Frankston and delivering better health services. included trains for the new Williams Landing station, Western suburbs public transport stopping every 10 to 12 minutes during peak times — — Mr McINTOSH (Kew) — My question is to the Mr Pallas — On a point of order, Speaker, on the Minister for Public Transport. Can the minister update question of relevance, the minister should not be using the house on the benefits for commuters of the coalition question time to praise the former government for its government’s public transport initiatives in the western initiatives. suburbs, including the progress of the regional rail link? Questions interrupted. Mr MULDER (Minister for Public Transport) — I thank the member for Kew for his question and for his
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SUSPENSION OF MEMBER ENERGY LEGISLATION AMENDMENT (GENERAL) BILL 2013 Member for Tarneit Introduction and first reading The SPEAKER — Order! That is a frivolous point of order. The member for Tarneit can leave the Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and chamber for an hour. Small Business) — I move:
Honourable member for Tarneit withdrew from That I have leave to bring in a bill for an act to amend the chamber. Electricity Industry Act 2000 and the Gas Industry Act 2001 and for other purposes. QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE Ms D’AMBROSIO (Mill Park) — I request that the minister provide a brief explanation of the bill. Western suburbs public transport Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and Questions resumed. Small Business) — On behalf of the Minister for Energy and Resources, the bill streamlines existing Mr MULDER (Minister for Public Transport) — publishing and notification requirements for electricity Of course trains stop every 20 minutes during off-peak retailers in light of the recent introduction of flexible periods. We have also introduced 3400 extra bus trips pricing in Victoria. The bill also amends some per week across Melbourne and more than triple the lodgement requirements for electricity and gas retailers number of bus trips each week in the Point Cook area. in relation to their financial hardship policies. The number of bus trips has trebled, from 697 to 2120 trips a week in that area. There are five new bus Motion agreed to. routes to connect with trains at Williams Landing, a new bus route in the Caroline Springs area and Read first time. improvements to Altona bus routes 413, 416 and 415 to simplify journeys to the railway station and improve COURTS AND OTHER JUSTICE coordination between buses and trains. LEGISLATION AMENDMENT BILL 2013
Of course we have deployed protective services officers Introduction and first reading at Altona, Hoppers Crossing, Laverton, St Albans, Werribee, Williams Landing and Yarraville stations. Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) — I move: Compare this to the situation reported in an article in the Age of 27 July 2010, which states: That I have leave to bring in a bill for an act to amend the Births, Deaths and Marriages Registration Act 1996, the Court Security Act 1980, the Legal Profession Act 2004, the … free travel will apply to train, tram and bus commuters, Magistrates’ Court Act 1989, the Police Regulation Act 1958, transport minister Martin Pakula said. the Supreme Court Act 1986 and the Terrorism (Community … Protection) Act 2003, to repeal the Courts Legislation (Neighbourhood Justice Centre) Act 2006, to amend other … a finance expert estimated this morning’s rail meltdown acts to update redundant references to the federal magistrates would cost Victoria’s economy at least $12 million in lost court and for other purposes. productivity after the travel plans of 400 000 peak-hour commuters were thrown into chaos. Mr PAKULA (Lyndhurst) — I ask the minister to provide a brief explanation of the bill. … Mr CLARK (Attorney-General) — The bill makes The Craigieburn, Upfield, Sydenham, Williamstown and Werribee lines were the worst hit … a range of amendments to various court and justice-related legislation, probably most significantly That was thanks to the former Minister for Public to repeal the sunset provision for the neighbourhood Transport. justice centre. It will improve the operation in the assessment of the referral court list in the Magistrates Court and bring change of name procedures more into line with national practice.
Motion agreed to.
Read first time.
STATE TAXATION AND FINANCIAL LEGISLATION AMENDMENT BILL 2013
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STATE TAXATION AND FINANCIAL TRANSPORT ACCIDENT FURTHER LEGISLATION AMENDMENT BILL 2013 AMENDMENT BILL 2013
Introduction and first reading Introduction and first reading
Mr O’BRIEN (Treasurer) — I move: Mr O’BRIEN (Treasurer) — I move:
That I have leave to bring in a bill for an act to amend the That I have leave to bring in a bill for an act to amend the Commonwealth Places (Mirror Taxes Administration) Act Transport Accident Act 1986 to enable the introduction of a 1999, the Duties Act 2000, the Financial Management Act fixed-cost model for any claim, application or proceeding 1994, the Land Tax Act 2005, the Taxation Administration under section 93 by order of the Governor in Council and for Act 1997 and the Unclaimed Money Act 2008 and for other other purposes. purposes. Mr DONNELLAN (Narre Warren North) — I ask Mr SCOTT (Preston) — I ask the minister to the Treasurer to provide further explanation of the bill. provide a brief explanation of the bill. Mr O’BRIEN (Treasurer) — This bill will Mr O’BRIEN (Treasurer) — This bill does a introduce provisions to help ensure that effective number of things of great utility. It simplifies the way control is maintained in relation to the cost of the mirror taxes are administered in Victoria. It supports the scheme for the Transport Accident Commission. national electronic conveyancing system. It introduces a new exemption for land owned by the trustee of a Motion agreed to. special disability trust, uses the principal beneficiary’s principal place of residence, removes the six year time Read first time. limit for claiming the principal place of residence exemption where a person moves into care under DRUGS, POISONS AND CONTROLLED certain circumstances and makes other adjustments to SUBSTANCES AMENDMENT BILL 2013 the Unclaimed Money Act 2008 and the Financial Management Act 1994 in relation to procurement. Introduction and first reading
Motion agreed to. Mr WELLS (Minister for Police and Emergency Services) introduced a bill for an act to amend the Read first time. Drugs, Poisons and Controlled Substances Act 1981 and for other purposes. TRANSPORT ACCIDENT AMENDMENT BILL 2013 Read first time.
Introduction and first reading VICTORIA POLICE BILL 2013
Mr O’BRIEN (Treasurer) — I move: Introduction and first reading
That I have leave to bring in a bill for an act to make Mr WELLS (Minister for Police and Emergency amendments to the Transport Accident Act 1986 to further Services) introduced a bill for an act to re-enact and improve the operation of that act and for other purposes. modernise the law relating to the governance and Mr DONNELLAN (Narre Warren North) — I ask regulation of Victoria Police, to retitle and the minister for further explanation of the bill. substantially repeal the Police Regulation Act 1958 and for other purposes. Mr O’BRIEN (Treasurer) — This legislation will improve the operational efficiency of the Victorian Read first time. transport accident scheme through clarifying the original intent of the current legislation, increasing EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT BILL 2013 some client benefits and addressing small anomalies. Introduction and first reading Motion agreed to. Mr WELLS (Minister for Police and Emergency Read first time. Services) introduced a bill for an act to establish new governance arrangements for emergency management in Victoria, to repeal the Fire Services Commissioner Act 2010, to consequentially amend
ROAD LEGISLATION AMENDMENT BILL 2013
3296 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 15 October 2013 emergency management legislation and certain 3. the project continues to receive strong community other acts and for other purposes. support. The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Read first time. Assembly urge the Baillieu government to fund and commence work on the Epping Road project as a matter of ROAD LEGISLATION AMENDMENT BILL urgency. 2013 By Ms GREEN (Yan Yean) (17 signatures). Introduction and first reading Northern suburbs bus services Mr MULDER (Minister for Roads) — I move: To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria:
That I have leave to bring in a bill for an act to amend the The petition of certain citizens of the state of Victoria calls on Road Safety Act 1986 in relation to the demerit point scheme, the Baillieu government to reverse its recent cuts to bus licensing and registration and other matters, to amend the services. Heavy Vehicle National Law Application Act 2013 in relation to miscellaneous matters and for other purposes. In particular, we note:
Mr DONNELLAN (Narre Warren North) — I ask 1. the localities of Greensborough, Plenty, Mill Park, the minister for a brief explanation of the bill. Bundoora, Yarrambat, Whittlesea and beyond have all been hit hard by cuts to services. Many bus stops at Mr MULDER (Minister for Roads) — This bill schools, aged-care and sporting facilities have been closes a loophole that existed under the Labor removed altogether; government that allowed overseas licence holders and 2. the Baillieu government’s 2011–12 bus review was done interstate licence holders to commit traffic offences in in secret and in the shadow of budget cuts and has Victoria and not be subject to the demerit point scheme. resulted in many service losses, overcrowding and massively increased travel times including Motion agreed to. Greensborough losing 561 weekly services and Doreen commuters journey times blowing out by over 26 per cent; Read first time. 3. the Baillieu government’s review is in stark contrast to BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE the 2008–09 review of bus services by the former Labor government, where there was extensive community Notices of motion consultation and delivered over 1000 extra weekly services for the north;
The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! Notices of 4. these cancellations are causing great distress to locals in motion 7 to 16 will be removed from the notice paper Melbourne’s north, who use bus services to access unless members wishing their notice to remain advise employment, shopping, health and education. the Clerk in writing before 6.00 p.m. today. The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Assembly of Victoria urge the Baillieu government to PETITIONS reinstate these services and deliver better public transport for our growing community including increased number of bus Following petitions presented to house: services and commitments to upgrade our public transport infrastructure. Epping Road duplication By Ms GREEN (Yan Yean) (8 signatures). To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria: Doreen road safety The petition of certain citizens of the state of Victoria draws to the attention of the house the Baillieu government’s refusal To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria: to fund the Epping Road project in the 2011 or 2012 state budgets. This petition of certain citizens of the state of Victoria draws to the attention of the house the exceedingly dangerous road In particular we note: safety issues experienced by school students and pedestrians trying to access Doreen Primary School, Plenty Valley 1. Epping Road services some of the most rapidly growing Christian school and numerous other secondary schools areas in Australia; attended by Doreen teenagers. By 2016 almost 4000 12 to 17-year-olds will live in postcode 3754 and most will still be 2. the intersection of Epping, O’Hern’s and Findon roads is forced to catch buses to school. recognised by the RACV as one of the worst in Victoria;
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In particular, we note: Supported accommodation fees
1. Yan Yean and Bridge Inn roads carry high volumes of To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria: traffic way in excess of what they were designed for with no footpaths, bike paths or pedestrian crossings; This petition of certain citizens of Victoria draws to the attention of the house the intended introduction of a rise in 2. Doreen Primary School and Plenty Valley Christian fees for people with disabilities who live in Victorian school students have no ability to walk even short government-managed group homes. distances to school, due to the absence of footpaths; The increase in fees, from 50 per cent to 75 per cent of the 3. there is currently no state secondary school in Doreen or disability support pension (DSP) — in addition to 100 per Mernda and a shortage of primary schools, so students cent of the commonwealth rental allowance — will create catch buses to schools as far as Whittlesea, Mill Park, severe financial hardship reducing affected Victorians’ Yarrambat, Epping, Greensborough, Eltham, income to less than $5000 annually for the majority of their Montmorency and Diamond Creek; remaining basic needs. This will severely diminish their quality of life. This is a cruel and an intolerable imposition on 4. there is inadequate bus stop space for the volume of the lives of Victoria’s most vulnerable citizens. buses with one bus stop even located in a no-standing The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative zone; Assembly of Victoria reverse the decision to increase fees to 75 per cent of the DSP. 5. there is no safe area for parents to park and drop off their children especially within an 80-kilometre zone. By Ms GREEN (Yan Yean) (6763 signatures). The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative Assembly urge the Liberal government as a matter of urgency Ordered that petitions presented by honourable to: member for Yan Yean be considered next day on motion of Ms GRALEY (Narre Warren North). (1) fund new bus services, cycle and foot paths; and Tabled. (2) support Whittlesea and Nillumbik councils to plan and deliver road improvements and safety upgrades. SCRUTINY OF ACTS AND REGULATIONS By Ms GREEN (Yan Yean) (22 signatures). COMMITTEE
Donnybrook railway station Alert Digest No. 13
To the Legislative Assembly of Victoria: Ms CAMPBELL (Pascoe Vale) presented Alert Digest No. 13 of 2013 on: This petition of certain citizens of the state of Victoria draws to the attention of the house the poor conditions of Corrections Amendment (Parole Reform) Bill Donnybrook station and the need for an urgent upgrade. 2013 In particular, we note: Fire Services Levy Monitor Amendment (Ensuring Fair and Equitable Levies) Bill 2013 1. that Donnybrook V/Line station is an increasingly popular station for commuters to reach the CBD; Local Government (Rural City of Wangaratta) Bill 2013 2. with the rapid growth in Mernda, Doreen and Wollert Radiation Amendment Bill 2013 and lack of other public transport options for people as Tobacco Amendment Bill 2013 far away as Whittlesea and Kinglake means that this station’s usage will continue to increase in future years; Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Bill 2013 3. the station and car park are currently in a very poor state together with appendices. and the growth in patronage is forcing commuters to park all over Donnybrook causing problems for locals Tabled. and local businesses such as the general store and hotel; Ordered to be printed. 4. the previous Labor government had pledged $1 million towards the upgrade of Donnybrook station — a commitment not matched by the now Liberal Statute Law Revision Bill 2013 government. Ms CAMPBELL (Pascoe Vale) presented report, The petitioners therefore request that the Legislative together with appendix. Assembly urges the Liberal government to upgrade the station including providing more and better commuter car Tabled. parking and improved lighting. Ordered to be printed. By Ms GREEN (Yan Yean) (42 signatures).
DOCUMENTS
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DOCUMENTS Harness Racing Victoria — Report 2012–13 Human Services, Department of — Report 2012–13 Tabled by Clerk: Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission — Australian Centre for the Moving Image — Report 2012–13 Report 2012–13 — Ordered to be printed
CenITex — Report 2012–13 Judicial College of Victoria — Report 2012–13
Commission for Children and Young People — Report Legal Practitioners Liability Committee — Report 2012–13 2012–13 Library Board of Victoria — Report 2012–13 Community Visitors — Report 2012–13 under s 35 of the Disability Act 2006, s 116A of the Mental Health Act 1986 Liquor Control Reform Act 1998 — Report 2012–13 under and s 195 of the Supported Residential Services (Private s 148R Proprietors) Act 2010 — Ordered to be printed Melbourne Market Authority — Report 2012–13 Corangamite Catchment Management Authority — Report 2012–13 Melbourne Recital Centre Ltd — Report 2012–13 (two documents) Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978 — Order under s 17B granting a licence over Maldon Historic Area Members of Parliament (Register of Interests) Act 1978 — Summary of returns June 2013 and Summary of variations Duties Act 2000 — Reports 2012–13 of exemptions and notified between 25 June 2013 and 30 September 2013 and refunds under ss 250B and 250DD (two documents) Summary of primary return September 2013 — Ordered to be printed Education and Early Childhood Development, Department of (together with Victorian Skills Commission Report 1 July Metropolitan Waste Management Group — Report 2012–13 2012 to 31 December 2012) — Report 2012–13 Museums Board of Victoria — Report 2012–13 Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority — Report 2012–13 National Environment Protection Council (Victoria) Act 1995 — Third Review of the Act under s 64 together with Environment Protection Act 1970 — Order varying the State National Environment Protection Council Response Environment Protection Policy (Prevention and Management of Contamination of Land) National Gallery of Victoria, Council of Trustees — Report 2012–13 Financial Management Act 1994: North Central Catchment Management Authority — Report Financial Report for the State of Victoria 2012–13, 2012–13 incorporating Quarterly Financial Report No. 4 — Ordered to be printed North East Catchment Management Authority — Report 2012–13 Reports from the Minister for Environment and Climate Change that he had received the reports 2012–13 of: Planning and Environment Act 1987 — Notices of approval of amendments to the following Planning Schemes: Commissioner for Environmental Sustainability Bayside — C87, C123 Goulburn Valley Regional Waste Management Group Campaspe — C69 Mornington Peninsula Regional Waste Management Group Casey — C163
Victorian Environmental Water Holder Colac Otway — C72 Part 2
Reports from the Minister for Public Transport that he had Darebin — C108 Part 1 received the reports 2012–13 of: Glen Eira — C112 Rolling Stock (VL-1) Pty Ltd Greater Bendigo — C192 Rolling Stock (VL-2) Pty Ltd Greater Dandenong — C179 Rolling Stock (VL-3) Pty Ltd Greater Geelong — C67, C264 Taxi Services Commission Greater Shepparton — C110, C121 Fire Services Commissioner Victoria — Report 2012–13 Melbourne — C218 Geelong Performing Arts Centre Trust — Report 2012–13 Melton — C134, C149 Greyhound Racing Victoria — Report 2012–13
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Moira — C51, C74 Surveillance Devices Act 1999 — Reports 2012–13 under s 30L (three documents) Moreland — C122, C148 Surveyor-General — Report 2012–13 on the administration Mornington Peninsula — C170 of the Survey Co-ordination Act 1958
Murrindindi — C49 Transport Accident Commission — Report 2012–13
South Gippsland — C72, C84 V/Line Corporation — Report 2012–13
Stonnington — C167 V/Line Pty Ltd — Report 2012–13
Surf Coast — C78 Victims of Crime Assistance Tribunal — Report 2012–13
Towong — C29 Victoria Legal Aid — Report 2012–13
Warrnambool — C77 Victoria State Emergency Service Authority — Report 2012–13 Whitehorse — C123 Victorian Arts Centre Trust — Report 2012–13 Wodonga — C94, C107 Victorian Catchment Management Council — Wyndham — C86, C148, C168 Report 2012–13
Police Integrity, Office of — Report period ended 9 February Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor 2013 — Ordered to be printed Regulation — Report 2012–13
Port Phillip and Westernport Catchment Management Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Authority — Report 2012–13 Commission — Report 2012–13 — Ordered to be printed
Public Prosecutions — Director, Committee and Office — Victorian Funds Management Corporation — Report 2012–13 Report 2012–13
Public Record Office Victoria — Report 2012–13 Victorian Law Reform Commission:
Roads Corporation (VicRoads) — Report 2012–13 Report 2012–13 — Ordered to be printed
Rolling Stock Holdings (Victoria) Pty Ltd — Report 2012–13 Succession Laws — Ordered to be printed
Rolling Stock (Victoria-VL) Pty Ltd — Report 2012–13 Victorian Rail Track — Report 2012–13
Sentencing Advisory Council — Report 2012–13 Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation — Report 2012–13 State Development, Business and Innovation, Department of — Report 2012–13 West Gippsland Catchment Management Authority — Report 2012–13 Statutory Rules under the following Acts: West Gippsland Healthcare Group — Report 2012–13 Conservation, Forests and Lands Act 1987 — SR 116 Wimmera Catchment Management Authority — County Court Act 1958 — SR 122 Report 2012–13. Crimes (Controlled Operations) Act 2004 — SR 123 The following proclamations fixing operative dates Infringements Act 2006 — SR 114 were tabled by the Clerk in accordance with an order of the House dated 8 February 2011: Magistrates’ Court Act 1989 — SR 120, 121 Company Titles (Home Units) Act 2013 — Whole Act — National Parks Act 1975 — SR 115 1 October 2013 (Gazette S337, 24 September 2013)
Road Safety Act 1986 — SR 118 Fortification Removal Act 2013 — Whole Act — 6 October 2013 (Gazette S341, 1 October 2013) Supreme Court Act 1986 — SR 117, 119 Major Transport Projects Facilitation Amendment (East West Subordinate Legislation Act 1994: Link and Other Projects) Act 2013 — Whole Act — Documents under s 15 in relation to Statutory Rules 114, 25 September 2013 (Gazette S337, 24 September 2013) 115, 116, 117, 118, 119, 120, 121, 122 Sustainable Forests (Timber) Amendment Act 2013 — Whole Documents under s 16B in relation to the Wildlife Act Act (other than s 17 and Division 2 of Part 2) — 1 October 1975 — Amendment of the Declaration of Dingo to be 2013 (Gazette S337, 24 September 2013). Unprotected Wildlife
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ROYAL ASSENT indicated to me that it wanted to debate the Superannuation Legislation Amendment Bill 2013 at Message read advising royal assent on 24 September length. I try to accommodate the opposition by to: allocating a reasonable spread of time for bills in which it shows an interest, and I shall endeavour to do so in Catchment and Land Protection Amendment Bill the future depending on the program. 2013 Children, Youth and Families Amendment Bill The matter of consideration in detail is usually raised on 2013 these occasions, and I make the observation that the Local Government (Rural City of Wangaratta) opposition had a chance last week to have a Bill 2013 consideration-in-detail stage on a bill, which was the Plant Biosecurity Amendment Bill 2013 local government bill, and it declined to do so. That is Road Legislation Amendment (Use and its right, but I make the observation that the opposition Disclosure of Information and Other Matters) had a chance to have a debate in consideration in detail, Bill 2013 for which the opposition has been asking for some time, Road Safety and Sentencing Acts Amendment and I emphasise as is its right, it declined that Bill 2013. opportunity. I again flag for the house that the second-reading speeches — obviously we have had the APPROPRIATION MESSAGES introduction and first readings of bills — will be given tomorrow. Messages read recommending appropriations for: The member for Bendigo East is not in the chamber, Tobacco Amendment Bill 2013 but not due to any choice of her own, I might add in her Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and defence. I have had a discussion with her about the Compensation Bill 2013. notice of motion I just gave which seeks to recommit for a statutory majority the third reading of the Courts BUSINESS OF THE HOUSE Legislation Amendment (Judicial Officers) Bill 2013, which was debated last sitting week. I indicated Program privately across the table to the member for Bendigo East that I will not necessarily move this motion Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and tomorrow; I would like to engage in a discussion with Small Business) — I move: the opposition on this matter. We have a circumstance where clearly the government is not in a position to That, under standing order 94(2), the orders of the day, government business, relating to the following bills be obtain a statutory majority, and last week there were a considered and completed by 4.00 p.m. on Thursday, series of circumstances, including illness, that probably 17 October 2013: did not allow sufficient consideration of that statutory majority. Corrections Amendment (Parole Reform) Bill 2013
Fisheries Amendment Bill 2013 I understand that the Attorney-General is also having a discussion with the member for Lyndhurst on this Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Amendment reform, which is supported, I gather, quite extensively Bill 2013 and was not opposed at the time by the opposition. I Tobacco Amendment Bill 2013 indicate formally to the house, particularly to members of the opposition, that I am prepared to have further Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Bill discussion with them about that notice of motion. If it is 2013. possible to move it tomorrow, I would like to do so. If it By way of observation, a five-bill program is a very is not and the opposition would like further discussion, reasonable program. Indeed I note that last week a the government is prepared to engage in that further similar workload was ridiculed by the member for discussion. With those few words, I note that I think Narre Warren North, and we did not get to debate one this is a reasonable business program. bill at all last week. The program I put forward is a reasonable one. I also add that the opposition chose to Mr MERLINO (Monbulk) — I am pleased to rise waive its adjournment rights, as is its right, on the Local to speak on the government business program, and Government (Rural City of Wangaratta) Bill 2013. there are a few points I would like to raise. I will get to Obviously that occupied some time on the Thursday the notice of motion that the Minister for Innovation, that I had set aside in good faith, given the opposition Services and Small Business referred to in a moment.
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Firstly, there is the issue of going into a Mr MERLINO — I will confine my comments to consideration-in-detail stage. I hear the point the the government business program, but there is a reason minister is making, but it needs to be understood that on that a statutory majority was not achieved for the the overwhelming majority of occasions, on almost Courts Legislation Amendment (Judicial Officers) Bill every occasion, the government refuses to go into 2013. We are in a situation now where this chamber is consideration in detail on any legislation. being treated with contempt, and there is going to be a suspension of standing orders to allow this bill to pass. I want to indicate at the start that we will be opposing But as I said, it is not a piece of legislation we are the government business program on the issue of opposed to, so we will engage with the government in consideration in detail, specifically in relation to the bill regard to the timing of that motion. being scheduled for debate on Thursday, the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Bill 2013. This In summing up, we will be opposing the government is a very significant piece of legislation. It is a complete business program, and I have moved an amendment to rewrite of existing acts related to workplace injury and remove the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and comprises some 749 pages. I will not go into detail Compensation Bill 2013 from the program. There are because this is not a debate on the bill, but it includes injured workers right across the state, and the only thing clauses that limit the rights of workers. We are talking we should do is consider that bill in detail. about an area of public policy which involves premiums of approximately $2 billion. The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member’s time has expired. As I said, this is a significant bill with some 750 pages in a significant area of public policy. Given the limited Mr TILLEY (Benambra) — I will make my time to debate the legislation — and there will be a contribution very brief and short, keeping in mind the number of second-reading speeches on Thursday, comments made by the member for Monbulk and his further curtailing the amount of time we have to debate goodwill on the importance of continuing negotiations bills — and given the size and complexity of this with the Leader of the House. I support the motion legislation and the fact that it concerns one of the most moved by the Leader of the House on the government significant and important areas of public policy of any business program. It is a reasonable and easily state administration, we would want to go into a manageable program with five bills. I will work in consideration-in-detail stage on this bill. I therefore cooperation the Opposition Whip to see that there is an move: opportunity for each and every member of the Legislative Assembly to make a contribution, if that can That the words ‘Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and be managed. On that note, I support the motion moved Compensation Bill 2013’ be omitted from the motion. by the Leader of the House on the government business In speaking to this motion I stress the vital importance program. of going into this very important piece of legislation in Mr SCOTT (Preston) — I rise to support the detail. contribution of the Deputy Leader of the Opposition, Finally I refer to the notice of motion given by the the member for Monbulk, and the amendment he has Leader of the House in regard to the suspension of moved to the government business program, in standing orders in relation to the Courts Legislation particular on the issues relating to the Workplace Injury Amendment (Judicial Officers) Bill 2013, and I indicate Rehabilitation and Compensation Bill 2013 and the that we will engage with the government in terms of desirability of going into a consideration-in-detail stage when that matter arises. As the minister said, this is not on that bill. a bill that the Labor opposition is opposing. We want to Without debating the bill, I would like to provide some see its passage through the chamber, so we will engage context regarding the importance of workplace in those discussions as to when the vote related to the legislation. As has been noted, this is a rewrite of the statutory majority will take place. I must say, though, existing legislation, the Accident Compensation Act that the status of this bill is a reflection of the chaos this 1985 and the Accident Compensation (WorkCover Parliament has descended into. That is what happens Insurance) Act 1993, which are important and when the member for Frankston is not in the chamber. significant acts. I will not use a prop, but the bill is a The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member large, weighty piece of legislation amounting to for Monbulk will stay on the government business 749 pages. As is the nature of such a piece of program. legislation, the bill’s numerous clauses are highly
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technical and relate to complex matters regarding the its deliberations to continue in such a manner that the rights of individuals in this state. important aspects of the bill that relate to injured workers and the important work undertaken by Without debating their merits or otherwise, it is WorkSafe on behalf of the community to ensure that important to consider in detail these matters, workplaces are safe can be considered in the detail they particularly given that, as the deputy leader alluded, this deserve. is a significant aspect of our community. I am sure all members would agree that one person injured at work With those brief comments — — is one too many, but a large number of Victorians suffer from workplace injuries. From memory, the figure was Mr Crisp — They weren’t brief. just under 30 000 last year. That is 30 000 individuals Mr SCOTT — I could have spoken in much more who made claims for compensation or other matters such as medical payments under the legislation. detail on the bill, so it seemed brief to me. There is much that could be said on the bill, but I have resisted It is important that the consideration of such a the temptation to discuss the clauses of the bill itself. I significant part of our community’s life should be given emphasise that this is a significant area of endeavour the weight it deserves. In particular, as was noted within the community that deserves the attention of previously, if you just look at the aspects relating to Parliament. business — once you move beyond the terrible personal situations injured workers find themselves Mr CRISP (Mildura) — The Nationals support the in — you see it is a very significant part of business government business program. Like the rest of this side, we anxiously await the result of discussions about the operations, as it should be. Approximately $2 billion of revenue is garnered from Victorian businesses for this Courts Legislation Amendment (Judicial Officers) Bill purpose, and there are also self-insurers who in effect 2013. I welcome the fact that the opposition will not pay their own premiums on top of that amount. It is oppose the bill, so hopefully those discussions will be important to understand that a large amount of activity, short and fruitful. including almost 50 000 visits to workplaces, and This week’s program contains a number of interesting significant public assets — over $10 billion in public bills. The Professional Boxing and Combat Sports assets are held by WorkSafe Victoria — relate to these Amendment Bill 2013 has certainly created some matters. This bill seeks to address these issues. interest in the community. Similarly, the Corrections I hope that all members would regard issues relating to Amendment (Parole Reform) Bill 2013 is topical in our WorkCover and the operations of WorkSafe as highly community. Hopefully these reforms will be debated significant within our community and deserving of the and will pass the house this week. The Fisheries attention of Parliament, in particular in a Amendment Bill 2013 is probably close to many consideration-in-detail stage. This would allow the people’s hearts, particularly in establishing the Fisheries complex matters and important details around clauses Advisory Council. Fishing and gardening probably regarding the rights of injured Victorians and Victorian remain Victoria’s largest nominated pastimes. The Tobacco Amendment Bill 2013, about smoking at businesses — in particular, as has been noted, regarding aspects of the bill that reduce the ability of Victorian certain outdoor venues, is another piece of legislation workers to exercise their rights in relation to injury that has been well debated in the public arena. claims — to be given due consideration. This is a And of course there is the Workplace Injury significant piece of legislation because it deals with Rehabilitation and Compensation Bill 2013, which is such important matters. the subject of an amendment that has been moved by It is important that we are able to drill down into the opposition to remove it from the government aspects of the bill clause by clause in order to examine business program. I will briefly comment that this is a in detail how the bill will impact on the rights of substantial and important bill. I note that in the past we have heard much from members on the other side about Victorian workers, particularly those who have been injured, and how it relates to the inspections undertaken lightweight business programs, but when something by WorkSafe and the important work on occupational substantial comes along — and the opposition has been health and safety undertaken by Victorian businesses given three weeks notice on this — they proceed to and WorkSafe. The Treasurer, as the minister duck and weave. I wonder whether they support the bill or not. That is something I did not find out from the representing the Assistant Treasurer, who is the minister responsible for the legislation, could then debate. With those comments, there is a program of provide further information to the Parliament to allow
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some merit this week, and we need to get on with the amendments to the legislation because government debate. members will not deal with it properly in the first place. This bill should be considered in detail by this house Mr DONNELLAN (Narre Warren North) — This and not slipped through — having been second read on week we have another small government business a Wednesday and passed on a Take-It-Easy or program with nothing particularly substantial, apart Go-Home-Early Thursday. from the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Bill 2013, a substantial bill of We are here to debate large bills, and this substantial approximately 1000 pages which has been sneaked in bill is more than 700 pages long with a 300-page at the last moment. That bill is about the size of my explanatory memorandum. No-one is going to tell me garage, and it will require substantial and serious that the government is going to get it all right; there is debate — a whole day at the very least. The issue is that no chance in Hades that it will. For the rest of the week this bill will limit workers common-law rights in we are going to proceed at a glacial pace, just cruising relation to compensation. This bill should not be along, and then it is proposed that we will slip this bill sneaked through at the last minute; it should be debated through without proper consideration, and then we will fulsomely and considered in detail. be back here again. This situation highlights that this legislation has been slipped in at the last minute and is The Leader of the House has indicated that an offer was not part of a program which would allow it to be made in the last sitting week to have a bill considered in considered properly. detail, but realistically this is not about ambulance chasing. You would hope that if someone’s relative was Realistically, the government’s business program is not injured in a workplace environment, members of the well organised, particularly when we look at this bill government would care about that and not make jokes and the Tobacco Amendment Bill 2013, which perhaps about solicitors’ pay and the like. Obviously some would be better called the Citizen’s Arrest Bill because government members do not consider workplace injury there is no capacity for its provisions to be enforced or to be deadly serious, but I do. It is a terribly serious to arrest people for smoking in inappropriate places. If matter that requires proper debate. I have no doubt that, we are asking citizens to arrest each other for smoking as sure as God made little pigs, we will soon be back in in inappropriate places, then that matter needs to be this house to deal with amendments to the legislation considered in detail. Such an arrest would have to be arising from this bill. made either by citizens or by local government health officers. In relation to courts bills and the like, government members have been warned that they would be better There are several bills on the government business off if we considered these matters in detail and got them program which will require serious consideration, but right, but unfortunately members of this government the main one is the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation never learn. They shove the damned bills through at and Compensation Bill. Because it is so large it will 100 miles an hour and then say, ‘We are back again require serious consideration, and that is why with the same legislation and we need your help to get opposition members will be opposing the government’s it through quickly because we are like naughty children business program, and will continue to ask for the bill who would not listen’. Government members would to be considered in detail. It is vital that when people not be told, and at the end of the day someone needed are injured they have the capacity to sue and to exercise to tell them, and it was us. We were — — their common-law rights without their rights being impinged upon by this or any other government. The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! I inform the member for Narre Warren North that the microphones The SPEAKER — Order! The Leader of the House are working. has moved the government business program motion. The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has moved an Mr DONNELLAN — Thank you, Deputy Speaker. amendment to that motion to omit the Workplace This is a bit like needing to raise your voice at your Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Bill 2013 from child because they are not listening and you have got to the program. The question is: get the message across. In the case of the Workplace Injury Rehabilitation and Compensation Bill, I have no That the words proposed to be omitted stand part of the doubt that I would be a sure winner if I were to put all question. my money on a bet that we will all be back here within a month — maybe a month and a half — to deal with this matter all over again. This government will make
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House divided on omission (members in favour vote Gidley, Mr Tilley, Mr no): Hodgett, Mr Victoria, Ms Katos, Mr Walsh, Mr McCurdy, Mr Watt, Mr Ayes, 42 McIntosh, Mr Weller, Mr Angus, Mr Mulder, Mr McLeish, Ms Wells, Mr Asher, Ms Napthine, Dr Miller, Ms Wooldridge, Ms Baillieu, Mr Newton-Brown, Mr Morris, Mr Wreford, Ms Battin, Mr Northe, Mr Bauer, Mrs O’Brien, Mr Noes, 40 Blackwood, Mr Powell, Mrs Allan, Ms Hutchins, Ms Bull, Mr Ryall, Ms Barker, Ms Kairouz, Ms Burgess, Mr Ryan, Mr Beattie, Ms Kanis, Ms Clark, Mr Shaw, Mr Brooks, Mr Knight, Ms Crisp, Mr Smith, Mr R. Campbell, Ms Languiller, Mr Delahunty, Mr Southwick, Mr Carbines, Mr Lim, Mr Dixon, Mr Sykes, Dr Carroll, Mr McGuire, Mr Fyffe, Mrs Thompson, Mr D’Ambrosio, Ms Madden, Mr Gidley, Mr Tilley, Mr Donnellan, Mr Merlino, Mr Hodgett, Mr Victoria, Ms Duncan, Ms Nardella, Mr Katos, Mr Walsh, Mr Edwards, Ms Neville, Ms McCurdy, Mr Watt, Mr Eren, Mr Noonan, Mr McIntosh, Mr Weller, Mr Foley, Mr Pakula, Mr McLeish, Ms Wells, Mr Garrett, Ms Pallas, Mr Miller, Ms Wooldridge, Ms Graley, Ms Pandazopoulos, Mr Morris, Mr Wreford, Ms Halfpenny, Ms Perera, Mr Helper, Mr Scott, Mr Noes, 40 Hennessy, Ms Thomson, Ms Allan, Ms Hutchins, Ms Herbert, Mr Trezise, Mr Barker, Ms Kairouz, Ms Howard, Mr Wynne, Mr Beattie, Ms Kanis, Ms Brooks, Mr Knight, Ms Motion agreed to. Campbell, Ms Languiller, Mr Carbines, Mr Lim, Mr MEMBERS STATEMENTS Carroll, Mr McGuire, Mr D’Ambrosio, Ms Madden, Mr Donnellan, Mr Merlino, Mr Workplace bullying Duncan, Ms Nardella, Mr Edwards, Ms Neville, Ms Ms GARRETT (Brunswick) — On 8 October I was Eren, Mr Noonan, Mr privileged to attend an on-site information session Foley, Mr Pakula, Mr about workplace bullying at a city construction site, Garrett, Ms Pallas, Mr Graley, Ms Pandazopoulos, Mr hosted by the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Halfpenny, Ms Perera, Mr Energy Union (CFMEU) and Damien and Rae Panlock. Helper, Mr Scott, Mr As members of the house would be aware, Damien and Hennessy, Ms Thomson, Ms Rae Panlock lost their daughter, Brodie, in the most Herbert, Mr Trezise, Mr horrific and tragic circumstances when she took her Howard, Mr Wynne, Mr own life in 2006 at the age of 19 after being subjected Amendment defeated. to horrendous bullying at her workplace, a local cafe. Her courageous parents, Damian and Rae, have taken House divided on motion: the very brave decision to channel their grief into ensuring that other families do not have to suffer in the Ayes, 42 way theirs has. Angus, Mr Mulder, Mr Asher, Ms Napthine, Dr Their tireless advocacy has seen the introduction of Baillieu, Mr Newton-Brown, Mr Battin, Mr Northe, Mr Brodie’s law, and they have been visiting workplaces Bauer, Mrs O’Brien, Mr all over Victoria to share their story and that of their Blackwood, Mr Powell, Mrs cherished daughter. The Panlocks have partnered with Bull, Mr Ryall, Ms the CFMEU to ensure that the message is given to the Burgess, Mr Ryan, Mr Clark, Mr Shaw, Mr thousands of construction workers and apprentices Crisp, Mr Smith, Mr R. across various industries and that they in turn share that Delahunty, Mr Southwick, Mr message with their children, their families and the Dixon, Mr Sykes, Dr broader community. At the information session we Fyffe, Mrs Thompson, Mr
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talked about the insidious and unacceptable nature of seeks to find common ground in the spirit and living bullying and how we all have a responsibility to stamp experiences of Indigenous people in both Australia and it out when we see people being treated inappropriately. Guatemala — from their culture, colour, traditions and I pay tribute to the Panlock family. the long-lasting memories of their ancestors.
Science and innovation awards He also seeks to express through his paintings the memory of formative years in Guatemala, particularly Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and the years of student activism and armed struggle. Small Business) — On Tuesday, 8 October, before ‘Painting’, he says, ‘has become a happy medium to some 200 people in Queen’s Hall, I announced that live with, a great way to share experiences and feel Professor Lloyd Hollenberg from the University of connected with people’. Calderon also said: Melbourne and Professor Alan Cowman from the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research had The art of exile for me is a way to find an explanation around conflict, understand its meaning and implications for both been awarded the 2013 Victoria Prize for Science everyone who has experienced it. It also enables me to and Innovation in the physical and life science survive, and to strive for a broader explanation about its categories respectively. The prize for each is $50 000. I consequences for society in general. also announced the 12 recipients of Victoria fellowships. I thank all those who assisted with the exhibition, including Dr Philip Darby of the Institute of The Victoria prize and the Victoria fellowships were Postcolonial Studies; Sarah Blatchford from Taylor and established by the Kennett coalition government in Francis Australasia; Lara McKinley, a photographer 1998 to support and celebrate the work of the people from Oxfam Australia; Paul Noonan from RMIT who drive Victoria’s science and innovation University; and Dr Rod Ling from the University of capabilities. In the 2012 state budget the coalition Newcastle. government doubled the number of Victoria prizes and Victoria fellowships on offer each year, and in 2013 the Police stations government also appointed an organisation known as veski to deliver the Victoria prizes and the Victoria Mr WELLS (Minister for Police and Emergency fellowships on behalf of the government. We have also Services) — This members statement informs the house implemented election commitments to establish six of progress on the government’s record investment in new Victorian postdoctoral research fellowships and building new and refurbished police stations to support double the number of veski innovation fellowships the delivery of 1700 extra front-line police members by awarded each year. We appointed Victoria’s first lead November 2014. In addition to the scheduled building scientist, Leonie Walsh, to provide strategic advice on program for new police stations, a number of existing the role of science and technology in driving industry police stations are being upgraded to accommodate and economic growth. 1700 additional police officers and 940 protective services officers. Put simply, the allocation of I congratulate Professor Hollenberg and additional police officers to police stations requires Professor Cowman on their achievement and the infrastructure works to accommodate these additional 12 new Victorian fellows on what they will achieve on police officers, because in many cases the existing their research missions. I also thank the Australian premises cannot cope without infrastructure work. French Association for Science and Technology for once again supporting two Victorian fellows who The 2011–12, 2012–13 and 2013–14 Victorian budgets choose to study in France. committed a total of $119.9 million to carry out these works. The 2012–13 state budget included funding of Angel Calderon $56.4 million over four years to upgrade 87 police stations. The government has also committed to leasing Mr LANGUILLER (Derrimut) — I commend the existing buildings and for capital works to build a art exhibition entitled Uncertainty, Creativity and Art, number of new police stations, including Ballarat North which is presented by Angel Calderon, an artist and and Daylesford, which I opened recently, and a number academic of Guatemalan background. The theme of of new stations that are expected to be completed or disappearance is manifested in his paintings in substantially progressed within the next 18 months, remembrance of the life of his 21-year-old brother including City West, Sale, Somerville, Waurn Ponds Vinicio, who disappeared on the evening of 20 July and Forest Hill. The government has also committed to 1982 when he was walking home after refereeing a building a new operational training and safety tactics game of basketball. In his paintings Angel Calderon facility at Craigieburn.
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Thomastown electorate constituent Coincidentally, I also joined a number of members of Parliament at the politicians clay target shoot hosted by Ms HALFPENNY (Thomastown) — During the the Melbourne branch of Field and Game Australia at last sitting week I raised a terrible situation that is being Lilydale last Friday. Well done to the winning team, faced by a family living in the Thomastown electorate. Liberal A. It was an excellent day, with good company, Their mother, who lived in Libya, required urgent challenging shooting, an impressive display of gun dog radiation treatment for breast cancer. She applied for a skills and some very enjoyable game delicacies. medical treatment visa to come to Australia but was refused. The need for treatment was urgent, and the These events are but some examples of the wide range family applied to visit Turkey instead. That application of shooting and hunting activities engaged in by was accepted. I thank the Turkish government and the Victorians of all ages and ethnic origins as well as Consul General of Turkey for their country’s interstate and overseas visitors. My electorate has compassion and care in helping Jamila in her time of shooting clubs in many locations, including Benalla, need. I commend the Turkish government on its Mansfield, Mount Beauty and Woods Point. We also humane policies in this area. have James Corbett, winner of the 2013 Queen’s Prize, living locally. Many of those involved in hunting are Breast Cancer Awareness Month also avid conservationists, as exemplified by their efforts with the magnificent Heart Morass near Sale. Ms HALFPENNY — On another note, October is The Liberal-Nationals coalition government proudly Australia’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and on and productively supports hunting and shooting, as the 8 October the member for Yan Yean and I, having evidenced by it delivering on its commitment to set up both turned 50 this year, joined with local breast cancer an independent game management authority. survivors Sofia Mastorias, OAM, and Maureen Corrigan, OAM, in an effort to remind women to Brooklyn industrial precinct pollution prioritise their health and book a breast screen. We met with Sharny McLean from BreastScreen Victoria at the Mr NOONAN (Williamstown) — The 2012–13 Epping breast screening centre, where we were shown annual report of the Environment Protection Authority the mammogram equipment and shared a discussion outlines its ongoing work to address odour and dust about breast cancer. issues in Brooklyn and the priority of targeting dust generated from unsealed roads and verges whilst The latest BreastScreen Victoria participation rate minimising the impact of pollution from local report card for the Thomastown district shows that businesses in the area. This is important work, but sadly 51 per cent of women aged between 50 and 69 take Brimbank City Council is being thwarted in its efforts advantage of the free service. However, this rate is to seal Bunting Road in Brooklyn by a collection of lower than the statewide average. Screenings are free businesses that are refusing to agree to a special charge for women 50 and over and take only 10 minutes. scheme. Two of those objecting businesses are Statistics reveal that one in nine women will be Swanmont Pty Ltd and Bunting South Pty Ltd, which diagnosed with breast cancer, and the latest Cancer are part of the Sunshine Group waste management Council Victoria statistics indicate that breast cancer is business. one of the most common cancers. I commend BreastScreen Victoria for its strong work in the fight In January this year two other companies under the against breast cancer and encourage all women to book Sunshine Group’s umbrella, Western Land a screening today. Reclamation and Brooklyn Materials Recovery, were targeted by the Environment Protection Authority and Shooting and hunting events issued with pollution abatement notices. Interestingly, Brooklyn Materials Recovery has since been Dr SYKES (Benalla) — Yesterday I joined deregistered and a new company named Action 287 students from 32 schools at the 51st annual Recovery and Recycling has popped up. Despite only schoolboys and schoolgirls clay target shoot at Benalla. being registered a year ago, Action Recovery and Congratulations to all winners and participants and Recycling was awarded a very generous $500 000 participating schools from places as far away as to taxpayer-funded grant by the Minister for Environment Tallangatta, Lilydale, Melbourne and Echuca. and Climate Change in July this year. This has led Congratulations on conducting the event go to the some in my community to ask why known polluters Benalla and district Field and Game Australia members should receive the benefit of taxpayer funds to support and to their many helpers. The event provides a healthy, and grow their businesses when those same polluters challenging activity for young people. are hampering long overdue pollution abatement works,
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such as the sealing of Bunting and Jones roads. This is It is disgraceful that the federal government has now an affront to our community and the environment, defined multiculturalism as a welfare issue rather than which for years has been exposed to excessive levels of something that defines who we are, unites us with the pollution from the Brooklyn industrial precinct. rest of the world, helps our economy and make us a stronger and better society. I would have liked to hear Century Club afternoon tea the Minister for Multicultural Affairs and Citizenship condemn this move and ask the Abbott government to Mrs BAUER (Carrum) — It was my pleasure to correct it. have started the Century Club event in 2011. In excess of 150 centenarians have now participated in this very I would have also liked to hear the Minister for exclusive club. The third Century Club event was held Tourism and Major Events criticise the federal on 30 September. To have so many wonderful government over the fact that there is no federal Victorians share their inspiring stories and memories minister for tourism. This is the first time in over has been extremely rewarding. 40 years that there has been no federal minister for tourism. That is quite disgraceful. To make matters Some secrets to longevity shared by this year’s 100 to even worse, the federal government has split the 107-year-olds include happiness, plenty of sea air and a portfolio’s functions: international tourism goes with massage once a week; do not harm anyone, steal, trade, and domestic tourism goes with industry and has misbehave, tell lies or take alcohol; early to bed, early to compete with all other areas of industry. Do we to rise; no smoking or drinking; home-cooked meat and really think that there is going to be this great, effective vegies, fresh air, good living and plenty of fruit; being ministerial support for the domestic tourism industry? polite to everyone, church on Sunday and always The reality is no. barracking for Carlton; always having a project, everything in moderation and, most importantly, be Walsh Street shootings anniversary happy; lots of hard work; enjoying a glass of wine or two; making the best of each day brings new Mr BATTIN (Gembrook) — On 12 October experiences, and the love of your family means 25 years ago Victoria changed forever. Just hours everything; eating lots of fish; a life of no alcohol and before a call-out to an abandoned car in Walsh Street, lots of gardening; living an honest life, helping others South Yarra, police had shot dead Graeme Jensen in and an extremely happy marriage of 40 years to a Narre Warren as he avoided arrest for armed robbery. wonderful partner; having a good wife of 60 years, a At 4.39 a.m. a call came in for St Kilda 311 to attend a relaxed demeanour and a good sense of humour; live routine job of the sort that police officers would attend and let live, follow the footy and have an occasional every day. St Kilda 311 was busy at the time so brandy; make the most of every opportunity, join in and Prahran 311 took the call. Constable Steven Tynan, surround yourself with a wonderful family; be 25080, and Constable Damian Eyre, 26483, attended interested in life and, if possible, find work you enjoy; Walsh Street at approximately 4.50 a.m. to investigate a and eat, drink and be merry. Commodore parked in the middle of the street with an open door. It appeared to be a stolen vehicle. Federal government ministry What happened next still puts chills down our spines. It Mr PANDAZOPOULOS (Dandenong) — I have was a callous, weak and disgusting act of violence been waiting since the announcement of the Abbott against not only two young men doing their job but all ministry to hear the state government express its Victorians. Constables Tynan and Eyre were ambushed concern that there are no longer federal ministers for with no warning or opportunity to react. Two of multicultural affairs or tourism. It is a great shame that Victoria’s police family were gunned down in cold this has happened. The Howard federal government blood in an act of revenge. The events that took place abolished the position of minister for multicultural on that cold morning affected the heart and soul of this affairs until there was a community-based campaign to state. Two young police officers, one only months out reinstate a minister with that portfolio. Now there is no of the academy, had their lives cut short in an act of minister. The portfolio has been pigeonholed as a revenge. welfare issue under the federal Minister for Social Services, Kevin Andrews, and is not really about who My thoughts this weekend were with the families of we are as a country — a group of people from migrant constables Tynan and Eyre, as well as with the police backgrounds who work hard for this country and who officers who are out on our roads every day protecting also connect us with the world and describe who we the community. My special thoughts go out to all who are. serve or who have served at Prahran over the years.
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Every one of them still gets a cold chill when they drive intensive support of members, working bees and the down Walsh Street when working Prahran 311. generosity of local businesses. This has rekindled the spirit that formed the track in the first place. I would Sporting club volunteers like to thank the volunteers who have given up their weekends for almost six months to undertake a rebuild Mr PERERA (Cranbourne) — The winter sports of the track, which has seen improvements to pits, season has come to an end. It is timely to congratulate lights and spectator areas. I look forward to the first not only the sporting teams that participated in sport meeting of the season on 16 November. during the season but also the unsung heroes, not just those in my electorate of Cranbourne but across Cardross spring show Victoria. Mums and dads, brothers and sisters, grandpas and grandmas make the effort week after week to come Mr CRISP — The Cardross spring show was held out and not only support their family members who are last Saturday, and as usual it was a wonderful success. participating in these sports but also volunteer their There were displays of flowers, preserves, produce and valuable time. Many mums and dads volunteer their baking. It was a truly spectacular event. Well done to time in many ways. Some run canteens and some take the community of Cardross. on an official capacity in their family member’s sport. It may be running the line at a soccer game, time-keeping Regional leaders forum at a junior football event or providing the oranges at half-time at a family member’s rugby event. Mr CRISP — Regional Development Victoria and its leaders met in Mildura and brought together Time after time we hear about this season’s premiers. Regional Development Australia chairs — — However, we must also take our hats off to the local sporting organisations and the volunteers. I pay tribute The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The to them. They are also heroes in my eyes. member’s time has expired.
Cranbourne electorate roads City of Hume Sunbury plebiscite
Mr PERERA — Time after time I get up in this Ms BEATTIE (Yuroke) — I rise today to express place seeking much-needed road funding from the disgust on behalf of the residents of the Yuroke conservative government for the residents of the electorate at the abject failure of the Minister for Local electorate of Cranbourne. However, my pleas fall on Government to apply any form of even the most basic deaf ears. In three budgets the government has not governance to the Sunbury Out of Hume ballot. Tens of invested a red cent in any of the roads — — thousands of ratepayers and businesses across the electorate of Yuroke have received ballot papers with The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The absolutely no explanation as to why and upon what member’s time has expired. they are being required to vote. This ballot is being conducted in a vacuum devoid of debate and Mildura speedway explanation of the issues or implications of the outcomes of a vote that could see Sunbury secede from Mr CRISP (Mildura) — The Mildura speedway is a the City of Hume. Many people have brought their Mildura institution run by the Mildura Motorcycle ballot papers into my office to seek guidance. Club. The club was established in 1947, and after a number of events staged around the district it settled at A vague reference to the Victorian Electoral Johnson’s Bend on the edge of Mildura. A 400-metre Commission website and a seven-word proposal is all track was established, and racing began. Improvements that has been provided to electors, and anyone with a were made over the years by club members, but by the basic understanding of the electoral process could not end of 2012 the track needed a major upgrade to possibly make an informed decision. The fact that the lighting and the safety fence in order for it to be able to only directive for information that is given is via a continue to hold international events. website is discriminatory to anyone without access to or understanding of the internet. Gavin Sedgmen, the president of the Mildura Motorcycle Club, and his team went to work, and in You cannot run a chook raffle in this state without a May this year the state government was able to permit, and yet here we have a constituency being announce funding of $200 000 from the Regional bound by a vote — presided over by the Liberal Growth Fund. The club then went to work and has government — which has serious implications, both delivered extraordinary value for money with the financial and in terms of service delivery, for all
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residents of the city of Hume with neither a fact sheet in Footscray and Sunshine, it does nothing to provide nor an explanatory accompanying letter being provided. support for that growth to occur. As a matter of fact we This is straight out of the Robert Mugabe book of have a minister who has given approval for democracy, or it may come from Sergeant Schultz, who developments in Footscray of 31 storeys, when the said, ‘I know nothing’, and that is — — skyline study suggests a limit of 14. This is a sham plan that does nothing to ensure that there is livability in a The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The plan and strategy that the minister has said will member’s time has expired. guarantee livability.
Shindig at Mordialloc Life Saving Club There is also no guarantee about transport infrastructure being put in place to recognise this growth as it occurs, Ms WREFORD (Mordialloc) — I recently attended and there is no strategy to deal with the increased truck the Shindiggers reunion. Shindig was a Sunday night traffic to and from the port. Nothing in this plan dance at the Mordialloc Life Saving Club founded by addresses the problems of the inner west. It is a hoax on Hazel Pierce in 1957. Hazel attended every Sunday the people of Footscray, a hoax on the people of dance for 22 years and has been at all the reunions Sunshine and a hoax on the people of the western since. I went to Shindig as a teenager. Well done to suburbs. This plan provides only platitudes; there are no Hazel and to the lifesaving club for running a fantastic answers for the people of Footscray. The minister reunion. should hang his head in shame. This document provides no answers and no solutions. Parkdale Family and Children’s Centre
Ms WREFORD — Kingston Mayor Ron South Barwon electorate community facilities Brownlees, Parkdale Secondary College president Marc Mr KATOS (South Barwon) — I was delighted to Wilson and I turned the sod for the Parkdale Family join the Minister for Sport and Recreation in making and Children’s Centre, a $6 million project on the community facility funding announcements in my college site that will create three long day care rooms of electorate last Tuesday: $70 000 to upgrade the Barwon 27-place capacity and two kindergarten rooms of Heads Village Park playground; $100 000 to redevelop 22-place capacity. Being co-located, it will provide the H. Blyth Field at Barwon Heads Village Park to great educational opportunities. improve the playing surface and install lighting and irrigation for Barwon Heads Soccer Club; $466 000 Rotary Club of Mordialloc towards a new pavilion at the Geelong cycling Ms WREFORD — The Rotary Club of Mordialloc criterium track in Belmont. People in Torquay will also recently invited me to speak about a day in the life of an benefit from $100 000 in common funding for a new MP. I also spoke about the club’s great work for the natural turf soccer pitch, complete with lighting, at community. It runs charity golf days, an art show, Banyul Warri Fields. Parkdale station working bees, the Victorian Gnome Police and emergency services Waurn Ponds Festival and more. Congratulations to president Len Dawson and the team. facility
Woodlands Golf Club Mr KATOS — Last Thursday the Premier marked the beginning of the construction of a new Ms WREFORD — Woodlands Golf Club held a $15.6 million police station and SES complex in Waurn centenary event on Saturday. Woodlands is a beautiful Ponds. The Premier joined me to turn the first sod at the historic golf club that is very well run, as evidenced by construction site that will create approximately its 100-year history. It has regularly hosted the 54 full-time jobs during the construction phase and Victorian Open and the Australian amateurs create significant flow-on benefits for the Geelong championships. Well done to captain Lindsay Brown, community. Local company E. J. Lyons & Sons of general manager John Stamp and company. Geelong will build the facility due for completion late in 2014. The new 24-hour police station will initially Plan Melbourne accommodate 30 staff, and the SES headquarters and training facility will accommodate up to 60 SES Ms THOMSON (Footscray) — The Plan personnel and will feature an operations room, training Melbourne strategy document released by the Minister facilities and a large motor room. for Planning and the Premier is nothing but a hoax on the people of the west. Whilst it allocates growth areas
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Pat Smith award. Well done Washer, Julie, Matt and the team at Hendo’s Cafe. Mr KATOS — I would like to congratulate Pat Smith of Highton, who was named the 2013 Senior Darcie and Damon Morton Victorian of the Year. Pat devotes an enormous amount of volunteer time to UnitingCare Geelong and was Mr BULL — I congratulate Darcie Morton of honoured for her pastoral care and support for Marlo, who was recently crowned the Australian vulnerable people, for her coordination of emergency under-15 table tennis champion. On Sunday I presented relief support and for establishing the education Darcie with a $2000 elite athlete travel grant, along assistance program for disadvantaged young people in with her brother, Damon, who is a world-class the Geelong region. biathlete. The elite travel grants scheme is fantastic for regional athletes wanting to pursue ultimate sporting headspace Sunshine success on the world stage. I wish both Darcie and Damon the best for their upcoming events. Ms HUTCHINS (Keilor) — Last Friday, 11 October, I was pleased to work with and get to know Keith Henderson many of the young people from the Sunshine Visy Youth Hub in conjunction with headspace Sunshine, Mr BULL — Keith Henderson was recently Western YAC and Western YAG, in putting on a flash awarded a life membership of the Bairnsdale Cricket mob performance at the Sunshine Marketplace Association. He is a very worthy recipient. Keith has shopping centre. For those in the chamber who are been a great supporter of the game in East Gippsland as unaware of what a flash mob is, it is an impromptu well as being a great administrator and a great fount of dance performance in a public place. This was one done knowledge. I congratulate Keith on the award and with great pride and lots of energy to celebrate Mental recognise the great ongoing support of his wife, Bev, Health Week and promote headspace Sunshine. Many and the family. of the young people who participated had at one time or another used the services at headspace Sunshine, and Toorloo Arm Country Fire Authority brigade performing in public when you are not a trained dancer Mr BULL — With the fire season almost upon us is a big step by young people that takes a lot of courage. and planned burning under way in East Gippsland, it They performed amazingly, and my heart swelled with was with great pleasure that I was able to announce a pride at the smiles on the faces of those who new tanker for the Toorloo Arm Country Fire Authority participated and at the smiles in the large crowd that brigade last week. Toorloo Arm is just east of Lakes formed as the performance took place. Entrance. This announcement continues this In a week highlighting mental health, the smiles that government’s commitment to supporting local Country came to people’s faces showed that this project was a Fire Authority brigades. The tanker is the latest of huge success for headspace Sunshine and the young several new vehicles that I have had the pleasure of people involved. Headspace Sunshine offers services to making announcements about and presenting to young people between the ages of 12 and 25 who need brigades in East Gippsland. help with their health, are feeling depressed or anxious or are worried about drug or alcohol use. I acknowledge The Age Music Victoria Awards the beautiful performers who took part last Friday, in Ms KNIGHT (Ballarat West) — You cannot deny particular Sharny, Tenealle, Tara, John, Teisha, John that Ballarat is an awesome place that produces and Blake. awesome musicians. In nominations for the best regional act in the Age Music Victoria Awards, three of East Gippsland Business Awards the five finalists are from Ballarat. Hunting Grounds, Mr BULL (Gippsland East) — On Friday I attended Gold Fields and Yacht Club DJs have all been the East Gippsland Business Awards, a night that nominated. Not only have three of our local bands been showcased the great enterprises throughout my region. I nominated in their category, but Karova Lounge has make special mention of Hendo’s Cafe, a fantastic also been nominated for the best regional venue award. Bairnsdale business, which scooped the pool, and I think it is safe to say that the Ballarat music scene is Mallacoota Abalone Pearls Australia, for winning the really kicking it. judges award. Hendo’s managed to win awards in four Shaun Adams, Karova venue coordinator, is quoted in categories, including the outstanding achievement today’s Ballarat Courier as saying:
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With the support of national touring acts, we have also been worldOutgames blessed to have the support of a great live music scene … Mr NEWTON-BROWN — I attended the farewell I could not agree with him more. I am of the era of the party for Victorian athletes attending the Bridge Mall Inn, or the Rat as it was known, and was third worldOutgames, which recently took place in lucky to be able to hear great local music there. The Antwerp, Belgium. The sporting events at the Mavises, The Fat Thing, No Idea, Immaculata, The outGames offer a little more diversity than the Olympic Dead Salesmen and Wretched Child were just some of Games. Alongside hockey and synchronised the bands I had the privilege of seeing. My kids now go swimming, categories also include bridge, inline to Karova and are experiencing bands just like those skating and same-sex dancing. Events such as the world that have been nominated for these awards. I want to outGames emphasise the importance of inclusion, thank Karova, Hunting Grounds, Gold Fields, Yacht regardless of sexuality, gender, race, religion or Club DJs and all the local bands who perform there for political beliefs. providing my kids and their friends with wonderful experiences and lifelong memories. I hope that as a Stonnington Primary School venue Karova goes from strength to strength, and I wish it luck in the upcoming awards. Congratulations to Mr NEWTON-BROWN — It was great to spend Hunting Grounds, Gold Fields and Yacht Club DJs on time with the students at Stonnington Primary School their nominations. I say to everyone in Ballarat: hop on as principal for a day and to answer questions on line and vote, and get around our local musicians and politics and cyber safety. I received a grilling on politics our local live music venue. from the students and continue to be amazed by some of the insightful ideas these kids have for our future. Anthony Traill and Rhiannon Murrie Dianella Community Health Mr NEWTON-BROWN (Prahran) — Congratulations to Anthony Traill and Rhiannon Mr McGUIRE (Broadmeadows) — I am concerned Murrie from MCC Hockey club, who were awarded that funding for Dianella Community Health’s mental Male Umpire of the Year and Female Umpire of the health services will be cut and vital jobs will be lost Year respectively at the 2013 Hockey Victoria Awards under the Victorian government’s tender process that dinner at the MCG recently. appears to be designed to force providers to do more for less but risks the quality of the services and the Blessing of the animals necessary established bonds between providers and clients. Mr NEWTON-BROWN — I was pleased recently to attend the 20th annual blessing of the animals at The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The time for St James the Great Anglican Church in St Kilda East members to make statements has now expired. with the members for Bayswater and Caulfield. This event is celebrated on the feast day of St Francis of PROFESSIONAL BOXING AND COMBAT Assisi, who is the patron saint of creatures great and SPORTS AMENDMENT BILL 2013 small. Father Kelly and festival patron John-Michael Howson led the ceremony, which included a street Second reading procession to the churchyard gardens, where every pet, including the member for Caulfield’s blue-tongue Debate resumed from 5 September; motion of lizard, received an individual blessing and a St Francis Mr DELAHUNTY (Minister for Sport and medal. Recreation). Prahran Greek Orthodox community Mr EREN (Lara) — I rise to speak on behalf of the Victorian parliamentary Labor Party, the opposition, on Mr NEWTON-BROWN — Congratulations to the the Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Greek community of Prahran at St Dimitrios in Prahran Amendment Bill 2013. I would like to indicate at the for securing a grant of $15 000 through the Victorian outset that the opposition will not be opposing the bill. Multicultural Commission’s buildings and facilities This bill comes to the house having some public improvements grants program. Father Kourabis and his prominence, and although it is a good step in the right team will use the grant to renovate the kitchen area, direction, more needs to be done to strengthen the which will then be used as a soup kitchen to serve boxing and combat sports industry in Victoria. We need Prahran’s most vulnerable community members. more than an act that increases the regulatory burden.
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The question I put to the minister is: who has been and combat sports to be run by people of good consulted in relation to establishing this bill we have character and reputation. This is important not only to before us today? It is my understanding that there has ensure that community expectations are met but also to been minimal consultation with stakeholders, which is uphold safety while reducing the risk of malpractice. consistent with the approach to decision making this government has taken. To get back to the issue of safety, what about the safety of the fighters in combat sports? There has been a lot of The bill amends the Professional Boxing and Combat discussion recently about the safety of the mixed Sports Act 1985 to strengthen controls relating to the martial arts (MMA) community. The minister is well probity of industry participants. The amendments aware of issues in relation to safety in combat sports, primarily relate to the criteria for issuing licences to and he is aware that it needs to be seriously considered participate in the industry. The bill inserts a new and improved. He definitely knows that, because he definition for ‘prohibited person’ to define gets that advice from the Professional Boxing and circumstances in which a person is automatically Combat Sports Board. The minister needs to take that prohibited from obtaining or holding a licence under advice from his board. As I understand it, the the act. These circumstances include being convicted of Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Board has an indictable offence and sentenced to imprisonment made a recommendation to the minister that organisers for 10 years or more; having a comparable conviction of MMA events be required to use a specifically and sentence in another state or territory; or being designed, enclosed structure to replace the current use subject to a control order under the Criminal of a conventional boxing ring. Organisations Control Act 2012, either as an individual or a member of a declared organisation or a In 2007 the Labor government made some changes to corresponding order in another state or territory, or the legislation relating to enclosures, and it made a being subject to an exclusion order made by the Chief determination that it deemed appropriate. When you Commissioner of Police under the Casino Control Act look back to the situation at that time and during the 1991, the Racing Act 1958 or a corresponding order in following five to six years, you see there has been a another state or territory. dramatic increase in not only the participation rates in MMA but also in the number of events that now Clause 6 of the bill substitutes a new section 6 in the regularly occur. The number of events happening principal act. Substituted section 6(2) indicates that the throughout Victoria has increased by over 100 per cent. application for a licence must be accompanied by Unfortunately organisers of those events are forced to prescribed documents, including a certificate specifying use a conventional boxing ring, and at the end of the any criminal history of the applicant — for example, a day the stakeholders involved in that particular combat national police certificate. I would like the minister to sport have indicated that that type of ring is an unsafe respond to this question: is there an agreement or an one in which to practise mixed martial arts. understanding of information sharing between the states and territories in relation to accessing this information A number of issues need to be looked at. As I have or applying this law? Whilst we welcome these indicated, many more events are happening now that changes, I wish the government were as fast at bringing include MMA rather than conventional boxing as we in the changes we all know are necessary to improve know it. These events have bouts of kickboxing and safety in combat sports, not just the changes it believes bouts of MMA, and they are all fought in the same ring. will assist in removing some malpractice. As I have indicated on a number of occasions, combat sports are not everybody’s cup of tea, and if you are not In 2001, in his contribution to the debate on the into combat sports, you are not going to like boxing, Professional Boxing and Martial Arts (Amendment) kickboxing or MMA. Nevertheless, MMA is a very Bill 2001, the member for Hawthorn strongly outlined popular sport. In fact it is the fastest growing sport in that that bill did very little and was another missed the entire world, and that does not exclude Australia — opportunity. Today the government has an opportunity we are very much up there. The sport attracts female to make a difference and make some changes to the participants, who take it up for fitness purposes and sport that will benefit it going forward. Unfortunately, self-defence — not everybody jumps in the ring and instead of doing that, the government is not doing decides to be an MMA champion. enough. Much more could be done with this bill while we have the opportunity. Currently in this state we have a situation where participants in MMA are not allowed to practise their In his second-reading speech the minister indicated that sport in a safe environment. It needs to be understood the Victorian government wants professional boxing that MMA is a contest where there are a number of
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different rules to ensure that fighters are safe; the sport are part of the regulatory controls over professional is very strictly regulated. It is a highly skilled sport, boxing and combat sports. As I understand it, New which mixes wrestling, taekwondo, judo and boxing. South Wales, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania have similar regulatory controls, and I Concerns have been brought to my attention, suppose we are now following in their footsteps to particularly in relation to the safety of those fighters, make sure that we are in tune with what is going on in and I think the minister is aware of them because they the combat sports world. I point out that we in Victoria were raised with him by his own board. Under current should be leading the way in relation to all of the Victorian rules the boxing ring is legal for combat advances in this area, not following other states and sports. However, it is possible, and in fact it is seen territories. I wish on occasion we could act as if we regularly on YouTube and the internet, that fighters are were the sporting capital of the nation. thrown through the wires of a conventional boxing ring and potentially face the prospect of serious injury, Ms McLeish interjected. ironically as of result of hitting their head on the ground, particularly concrete. The enclosure would Mr EREN — I inform the house that we used to be certainly assist in making sure existing safety hazards the sporting capital of the world, but I think we have for those fighters are eliminated, and that is what they lost that to London, so we are now second. are calling for. I would have hoped that, in introducing this bill to the house, the minister would have made Mr Delahunty interjected. some minor changes as a result of the request by his Mr EREN — I am just pointing out that we are not own board in relation to the safety of our sport. anymore. I agree with the minister that we should be.
There are also benefits that flow to the economy from Mr Delahunty interjected. MMA events that come under the jurisdiction of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). For members Mr EREN — The minister also acknowledges that who do not know, the UFC is a pay-per-view service we are now second, so we need to get back to being that costs about $35 per event. It is not just on Foxtel; no. 1. It is very important to make sure we lead the you have to specifically buy that service to watch that way, because we deserve to be the sporting capital of event on Foxtel. Hundreds of millions of people right the world and the nation, and all of these things are an across the globe watch this sport. Currently the states of indication that we are slipping. All I am saying is that Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia we need to lead the way. benefit economically from UFC contests being held in those states. Victoria and Western Australia are now the Given that those opposite felt the need to remove parts only two places in the world that do not comply with of the Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Act UFC requirements. As I understand it — the minister 1985 when they were in government back in 1996, I would be aware of this — there have been some would like to point out that the fit and proper test that discussions between UFC and Etihad Stadium. As soon they now want to implement was removed by the as they get a tick to have that enclosure they think they Kennett government when it was in power. I find it could potentially fill Etihad Stadium with ironic that the current Minister for Innovation, Services 53 000 people to watch that contest. and Small Business was the Minister for Small Business back in 1996 and that when she first read the A local Greek boy, George Sotiropoulos, is a UFC bill and led the Legislative Council debate she took an champion. He is a very good man who will be in a ideological position, arguing in favour of reducing contest on Sunday. I wish him all the best. He has regulation. She especially made the point that anything indicated that he has not got much longer to go in his that results in a reduction of licensing and regulation is career. He is a champion, a well-regarded person and in a highly desirable outcome. When we fast forward particular an icon of the Greek community in Victoria. some 17 years, we see that the fit and proper person test He would very much like at some point to fight in front has been reintroduced and that the industry is facing of his home crowd in Victoria, so he is pleading with more regulation and controls than ever before. It is the minister to change his mind on the enclosure rule. ironic that some of those people who were allowed to get their licences back then are now regarded as big bad Returning to the bill, a number of different aspects of it guys who should not have their licences. It is very will enable the Professional Boxing and Combat Sports ironic that the same member who spoke about relaxing Board to consider whether a person is a fit and proper these laws now gets up in this place and says we should person to hold a licence and whether it is in the public strengthen them. interest for that person to hold the licence. These tests
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The bill introduces a requirement for timekeepers to be public interest to issue a licence to that person. The licensed, on the register of the board and approved by chief commissioner must outline reasons to the board the board. The licence is in addition to licences for so that it can have confidence in relaying that advice adults to act as the promoter, matchmaker, referee, when making a decision. The bill also requires the judge and trainer. The previous practice was that a board to give written notice of its decision, including timekeeper did not have to be approved by the board; providing reasons for that decision, to a person who has they could be approved at ringside or at the weigh-in by been refused a licence. However, the board must not the Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Board disclose any protected information when giving reasons member who attends each event. As indicated to me by for its decision, and if the reasons for the decision are stakeholders, there is no reason why that board member based on protected information, the written notice must could not continue to take on this responsibility and specify that reason and state that it is based on advice provide an interim licence in the case of emergency so from the chief commissioner. that the event could go on. This advice from the chief commissioner to the board I understand that the reasoning behind now including will be protected under provisions in the event that the them — and I do not want to underplay the importance board’s decision is reviewed by the Victorian Civil and of a timekeeper role — is that it is considered to be one Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). The bill also outlines of the menial tasks that could be performed by many changes in the process by VCAT. If it receives an people in case of an emergency. However, I understand application for review of a decision by the board to that tightening some of the regulations around refuse, not renew or cancel, a licence, then VCAT must timekeepers is necessary to ensure the integrity of the ask the board whether the reasons for its decision were competition. It has also been highlighted to me by based on advice from the chief commissioner. If that is stakeholders that country and regional Victoria the case, VCAT must ask the chief commissioner promotions will be most impacted by this change whether any of the advice provided to the board was because they have to wait at least 28 days to acquire a based on protected information. If this proves to be the timekeepers licence from the board. This could result in case, VCAT must follow special procedures to protect promotions being cancelled. sensitive information. These provisions are primarily based on the Private Security Act 2004. The government needs to ensure that promotions are handled correctly and that enough adults are licensed I do not want to be a cynic, but I certainly would ask a accordingly or hold multiple licences at regional events question that would arise, for example, in the case of a to step in just in case of an emergency. The bill does not person who does not have a criminal record and has not specify how much a timekeepers licence will cost. I been convicted of an indictable offence and sentenced hope some more information will be provided in an to imprisonment for 10 years or more, has not been appropriate time frame to clarify that, as the industry subject to a control order under the Criminal does not know and stakeholders do not know what the Organisations Control Act 2012 and has not been costs of these licences will be. subject to an exclusion order made by the Chief Commissioner of Police under the Casino Control Act The bill also provides for application forms to be 1991 or the Racing Act 1951. If this person’s interest changed so that pertinent information can be sought was not to be a licence-holder but was based on an from people when they apply for a licence, and it ulterior motive to find out if there was an ongoing provides for the board to request further information investigation, that would be an easy way to find out. from an applicant before a decision is made. The bill What would happen if, for example, we inadvertently now requires all applications for a licence to be gave to the said person information that they were accompanied by prescribed documents, including a being denied a licence even though they had not certificate specifying any previous criminal activity by committed any of those offences? That would indicate the applicant. to him or her that at some point they were being investigated. As part of considering the probity of applicants, the bill provides for the board to refer applications to the Chief I am not sure how you get around that. I suppose in Commissioner of Police, who will provide written cases where particular people are denied a licence and, advice within 28 days. The advice may take a number as I have indicated, have not committed any of these of forms, including advising that the applicant is offences — which would mean legally they should not automatically prohibited from obtaining a licence, be denied anything — unless there is a sufficient giving a view that an applicant is not a fit and proper investigation that cannot be revealed that person then person, or advising whether it would be contrary to the says, ‘That’s all right; I have just found out that the
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police are investigating me for some reason’. I am just national framework for combat sports that needs to be putting the question of how you might inadvertently considered. give some information that could be sensitive. It is a shame that the minister has not made it his I will turn back to the bill in relation to the sections that personal duty to spearhead this at meetings of provide for the board to vary, suspend or cancel commonwealth sports ministers. Labor has indicated existing licences if it determines that an existing that it will push very strongly for a national code that licensee is not a fit and proper person, or that it is not in includes regulating both amateur and professional the public interest for that person to continue to hold a combat sports, a common approach regarding medical licence. If this occurs and the person has failed to meet supervision for bouts, blood and drug testing and how the probity requirements, they will be barred from often a fighter can compete, and for all state bodies to reapplying for at least 12 months. In addition, the bill have access to this information, amongst other things. If also prohibits a promoter from either employing or we want to improve safety in the sport, as the minister entering into any business relationship or arrangement says, these are vital reforms we need to consider. We in a professional context with any person who has been need lots of consultation with stakeholders. refused a licence or had their licence cancelled because they are not a fit and proper person to hold a licence, or We are getting on with the job of making our policies because it is not in the public interest for that person to after listening to stakeholders. I bring that up in terms hold a licence. Given that this person cannot be directly of uniformity and harmonisation federally, and of the employed or have a licence, does this mean they can states and territories particularly. For example, if a sponsor? I know there has been some media fighter fights tonight in a boxing ring and gets concentration on this particular area, but this legislation concussed or knocked out, there is a period of time will not, cannot and does not completely exclude from during which that boxer cannot get back into the ring the industry people who are not fit and proper. There unless he jumps on a plane. He can be in Queensland in are still some loopholes within the bill before the house 4 hours and he can have another bout on the same night that will allow people to play a large part in the and no-one will know. That is a serious problem. industry, such as through sponsorship. Mr Delahunty interjected. Mr Delahunty interjected. Mr EREN — I am just saying that unless there is Mr EREN — I am just saying that if a person some uniformity, understanding and consultation with cannot — — other parts of Australia, it is going to be very hard to make the sport totally safe, and we need to make sure The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr McIntosh) — we are on top of these issues. It is very much about Order! The member should ignore interjections. consulting and listening to the sector. We have changed our policy position to move with the times; we have to Mr EREN — What I am trying to — — keep our finger on the pulse. We need to listen to the sector and try to benefit from it while at the same time The ACTING SPEAKER (Mr McIntosh) — making the sport a lot safer not only for the participants Order! What I am saying is the member should not take but also for the people who go to the events or watch the bait. them at home. It is very much about making sure we Mr EREN — Through the Chair, if I could just can benefit economically from the sector. That is why a highlight some of the questions that have been asked of sporting organisation like the Ultimate Fighting me in relation to this, I am pointing out that there are Championship (UFC) is very serious. These events are still liaisons that occur where a person who is alleged to watched by millions of people around the world. be somebody who is not fit and proper to be engaged in It is very much about contracts being signed with the industry is still engaged in the industry. It is not a Etihad Stadium to get in 53 000 people. By the way, on big secret; I think the minister opposite reads the that point, according to UFC’s information, when these papers, watches the news and listens to the radio. This events happen in Queensland, New South Wales and has been all over the news, and that is all I am South Australia, 40 per cent of the people who attend highlighting to the minister — that is, as much as he the events are from Victoria, so we are losing a lot of may want to cover loopholes or whatever, he clearly is money in relation to these events. There are states that not covering all of the issues in relation to trying to are benefiting from them. We are considered to be the make this sport a lot better than it is perceived to be. I sporting capital of the nation, and we have a champion am just highlighting to the minister some of the in George Sotiropoulos, a Greek god in the sport, if I possible inadequacies of the legislation. There is a
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can call him that, saying, ‘I would love to compete in I have 14 seconds to go. I wish the bill a speedy my home state’. There are a number of factors that we passage, but it would be good if the minister could need to consider. answer some of the questions I have put during my contribution. The minister is more than welcome to take any of our ideas and run with them, because it would be for the Mr BATTIN (Gembrook) — I rise to support the good of the state. I know he listens to his board on Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Amendment occasion, and he should listen to his board more often Bill 2013 and I note that the Minister for Sport and in relation to some of these events. The sector would Recreation is at the table. It is wonderful to see that so benefit from some incentives from government. It is not many members have come into the chamber for such an all about trying to make it tougher and burdening the important bill. All our friends in the media are here sector with red tape and regulation to try to push people because they understand how important this bill is to away. It should be more about making the sport safer, Victoria, to boxing and to our economy. I thank them having integrity and making sure we cover all bases in for that. terms of keeping it clean, but at the same time it is incumbent on the state government, which requires all The government requested a review into professional these changes, to think about supporting the sector in boxing and combat sports and a review into the criteria some way and not excluding it from consultation, as related to gaming and the licensing of someone to act as has happened. a promoter in Victoria because it understood how important boxing is to the state’s economy. It is I am not sure how much consultation there has been important to note that the original act and the first with the sector in relation to the bill. I have spoken to a statute in Australia to control professional boxing lot of members of the sport. They do not disagree that contests followed the death of a young boxer at a tent we need to tighten up the regulatory burdens in terms of fight in 1974 in Geelong. That legislation was the integrity of the sport, which is paramount. They introduced in 1975 and it put in place the first laws to want it to be cleaned up as much as possible. However, protect fighters and measures to increase safety. That is having said that, they would have liked at least a little something we want to continue today. We need to consultation in order to have their concerns heard. One ensure that we have the best safety measures in place of the concerns, as I indicated before, is about for competitors in any of our combat sports. timekeepers and how much of a concern they could potentially be, particularly for regional Victoria in In Victoria in 2011–12 approximately 74 promotions conducting their events. If there is an emergency and a were held, ranging from very modest events in hotels timekeeper cannot make it, the event is off, and that is a and halls to televised events that were broadcast to lot of jobs and a lot of money for regional areas. We thousands of people across the state, across the country have to make sure we give the sector assistance, not just and sometimes across the world. This proves how make it harder for those people. important the industry is to our economy, and if it is managed correctly, I am sure it will stay important to It is very important with the obesity epidemic we have our economy in the future. at the moment. We in this state are getting fatter and fatter, and we need to make sure that people are more To give members some of the history leading up to active more often. The minister knows his catchphrase where boxing is now, I point out that at the time the better than I, but they are not just words; it is about report was provided to the Premier and cabinet there action as well. The minister needs to make sure we were 45 licensed promoters. To protect boxers there is a invest heavily because every $1 spent in sport is $4 requirement that one or more of the current board saved in health. Combat sports, whether it is mixed members is present at each of the events. It is important martial arts, judo, wrestling or any of those combat to have someone who is on the board at the event to sports, play a critical role in making sure that the health manage it, to see what is happening and to ensure that of the community is intact. They help to control our the correct procedures are followed. This is to protect obesity epidemic. If we make it harder for these sports, those involved in any of the combat sports. As I said, then obviously a lot more people will decide not to be we must not forget that this legislation is about active and will put on weight and cost the system a lot protecting the competitors. more. I urge the minister when he brings bills like this to the house to attach a little incentive to them to make In addition to promoters there are 32 matchmakers, 44 referees, 76 judges and 232 trainers, as well as over sure the sector does not shrink but grows. 1200 contestants in combat sports in Victoria. The current act provides that the state board must issue a
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Tuesday, 15 October 2013 ASSEMBLY 3317 licence to act as a promoter to any person who fills in One thing we know is that as Victorians we love our the paperwork correctly and pays the fee. So the current sport, and combat sports are part of that whole family situation is that if you fill in the paperwork correctly of sport. We are lucky to have three very good and you do everything right you will get a licence. This organisations that have very strict procedures and legislation will stop that practice and introduce for the policies in place to protect the safety and integrity of first time in Victoria a proper and fit person test. With their competitors. This bill brings boxing and combat the current state of the industry it is important that we sports in line with the AFL, Cricket Australia and put this test in place to ensure that any person applying Racing Victoria, three organisations in Victoria that for a licence is tested to ensure they have a proper and currently have an outstanding reputation for ensuring fit character. The board will then have discretion as to they have policies and procedures in place to whether or not it issues a licence. This will protect the investigate should anything untoward arise. industry and its image. This legislation ensures that any person who is looking at promoting events will be Another area of interest in this bill relates to the someone who can not only promote the event connections of a promoter of an event. It is important to effectively but who will put the safety of contestants note that information will need to be provided on who a first. promoter will be doing deals and sponsorship with. We may hear of people trying to be a sponsor, and we need This new bill will allow police to offer a view on all to put the message out there that should someone who applicants. When someone applies for a licence the is a promoter engage in a business transaction with board will discuss whether they need to undergo a someone who does not pass the proper and fit person proper and fit person test. It is important to note that, as test, their licence as a promoter may be affected. People with other licences, an applicant who is denied a coming into the sport are generally in it for the promoter’s licence has the opportunity to appeal against betterment of the sport, and we have good, effective that decision at the Victorian Civil and Administrative promoters out there. When they enter into any business Tribunal. If the application is denied based on transactions it is also vital that they look for people information from the police, it is important to note that coming on board who are promoting the best safety any information the police put forward as a reason why measures within the sport. someone does not meet the proper and fit person test may be protected. This bill has been discussed for quite a while to ensure that through it we improve the integrity of combat The police may put information on the table that is sports. One of the most important factors in these types protected and confidential and it is not in the public’s of sports is people’s perception of them. This bill will interest to release that information. The police will have ensure that practices are in place to protect the an opportunity to remove that information from any perception of combat sports in Victoria, including application to protect that confidentiality. Victoria boxing. We understand how important boxing is; we Police has been consulted on this legislation. There understand how important all sports are in Victoria. have been discussions on amendments to the act to This is yet another sport that is fantastic for the ensure they are satisfied with the protections in place Victorian economy. regarding confidentiality if the information they provide puts at risk another member of the community, an As I said before, this amendment bill allows any investigation or a case they are working on. information provided by Victoria Police in its input to be protected. I know that during our discussions that Another important part of the legislation which also was one of the big points that was put forward — the involves the police is concern about information need to ensure the protection of any information put relating to an applicant becoming public. This bill forward by the police. I know from working with the contains provisions to ensure that penalties are in place Minister for Sport and Recreation on this bill that the if any information is leaked. If a board member or Chief Commissioner of Police will have the employee of the department inappropriately discloses opportunity to ensure that such information is information relating to the probity of an applicant they withdrawn. will be liable for a fine of 30 penalty units, which is currently equivalent to $4330.80. The bill also proposes As I said in my contribution, I support the bill going to add to the duties of a promoter under section 13 of forward. We understand that the idea of the bill is to the act, and failure to comply would make the promoter ensure that we have a system with integrity that is in subject to a fine of up to 120 penalty units, currently line with what occurs with our three lead agencies in $17 323.20, or 12 months imprisonment. Victoria, that people have confidence in boxing and combat sports in the state and are able to make good
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investments in promoting these sports throughout the irony is not lost on me that this bill deals with integrity state, which will be a good thing for the Victorian of sport. One of the interesting things about this economy. With that short contribution, I wish the bill a sport — and I certainly recognised this when I was speedy passage. sports minister in the other place — is that it is traditionally a sport of colourful characters, of Debate adjourned on motion of Ms KAIROUZ individuals who are committed to it for a variety of (Kororoit). reasons, and that it therefore needs to be regulated heavily. Debate adjourned until later this day. I put on the record my sincere thanks to the chairs of RULINGS BY THE CHAIR the then Professional Boxing and Martial Arts Board of Victoria during my time as sports minister, Ron Casey Parliament House incident and Bernie Balmer. Their task was not an easy one. The industry is one of colourful characters, of individuals The SPEAKER — Order! Following an incident who enjoy the sport and want to be involved in it. They outside Parliament House earlier, I have reviewed the are often volunteers of varying competencies — and video footage. I advise the house that the police are that is not a criticism — with the hard-nosed character now investigating the incident. I also wish to advise the that goes with the sport. Combat sports, whether boxing house that it is a contempt of the Parliament to interfere or other combat sports, are often romanticised. There is with a member of Parliament either inside or outside the myth of the outsider, the battler, someone from the the house. I have an extract from Erskine May, which I other side of the tracks — the underdog. There is the will read to the house: notion of the great comeback — a great test of It is a contempt to molest a member of either house while character. The story of the great contender is not about attending the house, or coming to or going from it, and in the what you have been but about what you are or what you 18th century both houses roundly condemned ‘assaulting, might become. insulting or menacing lords or members’ going to or coming from the house or trying by force to influence them in their The history of these sports arises out of bare-fist conduct in Parliament. Members and others have been punished for such molestation occurring within the precincts fighting. There is nothing glamorous about that. I of the house, whether by assault or insulting or abusive believe it was in 1867 that the Marquess of language, or outside the precincts. Queensberry introduced rules to give order to the notion of bare-fist fighting and turn it into what was Without saying too much, I have concerns, and I assure then known as prize-fighting. In a sense the emphasis members that I am going to look after their protection. I of prize-fighting has not changed that much. It often will protect them, certainly while they are entering this involves characters who do not necessarily have many house. skills other than the ability to fight on their feet. They Mr Merlino — In relation to the 80-year-old and in are often the ones who seek to draw an income, or at relation to my point of order earlier this day, I ask least test the opportunity to draw an income, from the whether you, Speaker, will release the CCTV footage to likes of prize-fighting, boxing or professional fighting, Victoria Police. as opposed to amateur fighting, which is conducted in the Commonwealth Games and the Olympics. The SPEAKER — Order! The footage is now in the hands of the police, and they are considering The issue is that often this sport attracts individuals who charges. They are investigating the incident. come from difficult circumstances and who want to challenge themselves and the rest of the world by PROFESSIONAL BOXING AND COMBAT taking on other contenders, and who hope that by doing so they might make an income. The history of the sport SPORTS AMENDMENT BILL 2013 shows that the people involved in it often do not come Second reading from privileged backgrounds. Sometimes it is their last opportunity to make something of themselves, which in Debate resumed from earlier this day; motion of itself is a great test of character because it shows that Mr DELAHUNTY (Minister for Sport and they have not given up on themselves. Such people set Recreation). about testing themselves and testing their opponents in order to become great contenders. In a sense boxing is a Mr MADDEN (Essendon) — Today I am making a sport that often attracts the marginalised in society, contribution to the debate on the Professional Boxing which is why American professional boxing attracts so and Combat Sports Amendment Bill 2013, and the many African-American boxers who make good.
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Muhammad Ali, a prominent boxer at the end of the and at the end of the day you have to have enough last century, was seen as such a powerful force for good people to administer that regulation and control. not because he was a boxer but because he became a spokesperson for all the downtrodden and I hope this highly regulated area does not place an disadvantaged individuals who could rise above their undue burden upon participants in the sport, upon circumstances and become something more than just a volunteers or upon those who might draw an income boxer, or pugilist. In a sense that is the great romantic from it. However, we need to be mindful of certain vision of boxing, but in many ways I have been talking issues. We need to ensure that participants in boxing about the atmospherics of the sport. We should and combat sports continue to be protected. Victoria remember that for every champion who rises above, has been a leader in this field, but I am not sure that it is there are thousands of boxers who will never have that any longer. Nevertheless, I hope this legislation puts us opportunity, including many of limited ability who back in that position. I hope so, but I cannot be sure. throw themselves into the ring and end up being I know that other states lagged behind Victoria, which poleaxed or beaten to a pulp. I have mixed views about the sport. The sport is one that glamorises its heroes, of was a leader in terms of regulation. Many states which there are very few, and many other participants romanticised the notion of Jimmy Sharman’s boxing in the sport are left by the wayside, including many troupe so much that they did not regulate the sport, to who are led to believe they can be something more than the extent that anybody could walk off the street into one of the tents at an agricultural fair or festival and they are and in a sense suffer the consequences. have the hell knocked out of them by a professional Because of that, we in Victoria have gone to great boxer or someone trying to be a professional. Often lengths over many years to regulate the sport, and it has those people were naive amateurs who wanted to throw been very important to make sure that we regulate themselves into the ring, probably after having a few controls on the sport for the health and safety of those sherbets. who participate in it. The provisions in this legislation are an extension of that process to see greater control The issue is that we have to protect boxers and and regulation in the administration of the sport. It is participants in combat sports. We also have to make timely legislation, because in recent times — at the sure that the administration of such sports is regulated, but not to the point where we destroy them. If a sport is national and international level — we have all seen issues arise which relate to organised crime’s attempts not regulated in a manner that is balanced and fair, then to make inroads into sport by manipulating the results it could be pushed underground, which I understand or manipulating participants in the sports. Because of was the case for many years at the end of the this, it is important to make sure that we set in place a 19th century, even after the introduction of the Marquess of Queensberry rules. Apparently boxing structure that ensures that not only are participants protected but also that the sport itself, in whatever went underground for a while and was brought back manifestation it may take, is regulated so that people into the limelight so that it could be regulated and can have confidence in it. controlled. With that, I wish the bill a speedy passage, and I will be Nevertheless, I am a little concerned that the introduction of this legislation is a knee-jerk reaction to very interested in seeing whether the government is the way one colourful character has presented himself able to deliver these regulatory controls in a way that in the media, which may have led the Premier to feel does not create greater problems for the participants in that he needed to address this matter quickly. I hope the such sports, including volunteers and sports administrators. department has been developing this legislation for a while and that it is more than a knee-jerk reaction. I Mr SOUTHWICK (Caulfield) — It is my pleasure also hope that once this legislation has been put through to rise to speak on the Professional Boxing and Combat the Parliament there will be full and frank discussions Sports Amendment Bill 2013. I note that the Minister with the industry about how the legislation will be for Sport and Recreation is in the chamber today, and I implemented and how the regulation will be would like to congratulate him on his tidy work in undertaken, because I suspect that some challenges will delivering this very important bill to the house. arise; indeed some have already been highlighted by the member for Lara. I refer to the technical issues of The bill proposes to protect the integrity of boxing and putting this legislation in place, particularly given the combat sports. It is about sending a clear message to fact that so few individuals regulate and control the not only all those involved in these types of sports but sport. Volunteers and people on the ground will have to also people involved in all of the various codes of ensure that they comply with the regulatory controls,
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sports that we play, support and promote within 232 trainers in addition to over 1200 contestants. Many Victoria. We want to ensure that they are protected, people participate in this sport. because Victoria has a great history when it comes to sport. Sport is certainly a big business when it comes to The Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Board tourism, and Victoria has a significant reputation not ensures that bouts are properly sanctioned and that only in Australia but around the world. rigorous standards are maintained around the competitions. With this legislation we are ensuring that Victoria has hosted events like the Australian Open only a person deemed fit and proper may promote a Tennis Championships — which in 2013 injected boxing or combat sports event or hold a licence. Some $238 million into the state’s economy — the Australian of the changes made by this bill include the Formula One Grand Prix, the AFL Grand Final; the establishment of probity checks for promoters, Australian Masters Games in Geelong and the recent matchmakers, referees, judges, trainers and match between English Premier League club Liverpool timekeepers. This is to ensure that those involved in all and Melbourne Victory, which netted in excess of facets of the event possess integrity and pass the proper $10 million in economic benefits for Victoria. The list checks and balances. goes on in terms of the significance of sport and the economic benefit it brings and also in terms of the There are automatic bans for holders of professional number of viewers, spectators and people who support boxing or combat sports licences if they do not meet the various sporting codes that we play. specific criteria. The board may obtain advice from Victoria Police on the probity of applicants and The previous speaker, the member for Essendon, licence-holders. This gives comfort to a lot of people. It outlined some of the history of boxing and combat obviously gives comfort to people who are participating sports. Looking back to the 1800s, members can see directly in the sport and also to those who are viewing that boxing was certainly very significant. In a the sport. I think all members would agree that no village-type setting on a Sunday people would stand up, matter what sporting code we are talking about, we bare knuckled, and engage in combat sports. Jem Mace, need to make sure it is fair and balanced and that we who was recognised as a world heavyweight in the have people with the right intentions and sound 1800s, recalled that in his youth there was not cricket or integrity involved in playing and promoting that sport. football; for him the real sport was boxing. He said that That is what this bill goes a long way towards doing. It people would turn up on weekends to frequent boxing ensures the integrity of those who are involved in competitions of varying levels. boxing and combat sports. Other states have also clearly recognised the importance of this. New South In the 1860s in the US there was a fight between Wales, South Australia, Western Australia and American John C. Heenan and Englishman Tom Sayers Tasmania each have fit and proper persons tests as part which went for some 37 rounds before the ring broke. of their regulatory control of professional boxing and Heenan broke his right shoulder during the bout but combat sports. kept going. After another five rounds Heenan lost the use of his arm for the rest of his life. Back then it was a In Victoria such tests exist in other industries. Industries very combative sport. It was pretty bloody, and there involving firearms, gambling, liquor sales, private was very little regulation. I think all those in the security, real estate agents and motor car traders all chamber would agree that we have come a long way in have that fit and proper test. When we talk about the years since. Boxing has continued to grow, develop boxing, particularly in the professional sense, we are and be promoted. talking about a business. It needs to be taken seriously, and we would expect that the people who are Whether members like and support boxing or whether promoting, managing and profiting from these they do not, I think they would all agree it is important exercises would be fit and proper people when they are we have strong rules and regulations around boxing to taking part in such activities. protect those who are competing and those who are part of the business. At the professional level boxing is very It is logical for Victoria to legislate when it comes to much a business. In 2012 in Victoria we had some boxing and combat sports industries to bring them into 74 events ranging from modest bouts to matches line with other states and industries. If we want the drawing big crowds of people who paid significant sport to continue to grow and develop — and I am sure money to be ringside. Boxing contributes to the all of those who are involved in boxing certainly want economy. At the time of the report which led to this bill their industry to be protected — this bill will ensure it 45 people were licensed to act as boxing promoters and does so. there were 32 matchmakers, 42 referees, 76 judges and
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The bill protects the industry by keeping out the rogues was in 1996, when she spoke in favour of removing the and those who should not be involved in this sport. fit and proper person test, telling Parliament: With this bill we are saying, ‘We are fair dinkum, and we are ensuring that only the right type of people are The purpose of this bill is to deregulate sections of the professional boxing and professional martial arts industries … associated with this’. As we have heard, there have and to restructure the statutory boards responsible for control been colourful characters associated with boxing for of the industries. many years. We are not proposing to take away colourful characters. We remember Don King in the The 1996 bill made provision for the Professional US — he has certainly been a colourful character over Boxing and Combat Sports Board, which was the years. This is not about keeping out the colourful responsible for matters of probity in the industry, but characters but ensuring that colourful characters retain removed the board’s power to consider whether an the integrity of the game and are able and fit and proper applicant for a licence was fit and proper. to take on roles in terms of management, promotional or business opportunities in this sector. Currently, thanks to the changes the Kennett government made, the board has no option other than to Victoria is the sporting capital of Australia, and issue a promoter’s licence as long as an applicant can Victorians have the right to expect that our state’s demonstrate to the board an appropriate knowledge of sporting endeavours are beyond reproach. There is a the act and regulations, any relevant rules made under need for standards and integrity in all of the sports we section 23 of the act and any conditions to which the play and a need for all those involved to maintain those. licence would be subject if issued. When the board Sport is a very serious business, as I said before. We issued Mick Gatto a promoter’s licence, instead of the need to protect our reputation, and we should go to Premier explaining that he had been part of the Kennett great lengths to protect it. That is what the minister and government that had removed the fit and proper person the Premier have done with this legislation. It is good, test and therefore the board’s ability to exercise solid legislation. It is certainly leading with the right fist discretion in the interests of probity, the Premier forward in terms of what we are doing here. We are ordered his Minister for Sport and Recreation to protecting the sport, protecting its integrity and hoping conduct an urgent review of the circumstances under to grow it in terms of participation and viewing and which the licence was awarded. Where did the Premier attending events. We want to ensure that the reputation do this? In a front-page exclusive article in the Herald of this sport and of others continues not only to be Sun of 17 May. Criticising the board’s decision, the maintained but to grow. I commend the bill to the Premier declared it was — and I am quoting the house. Premier here — ‘out of step with community expectations’. Mr McGUIRE (Broadmeadows) — I rise to make a succinct contribution to the debate on the Professional The Orwellian twists in this saga include the Premier’s Boxing and Combat Sports Amendment Bill 2013. The failure to reveal to the readers of Australia’s highest coalition won government promising a new era of selling newspaper that the reason Mick Gatto was able transparency in Victoria and an end to spin. The reality to obtain a licence was that the Kennett government had is that the Napthine administration has become a master removed the fit and proper person test that the Premier of doublethink. In his political exposé 1984 George is now seeking to reintroduce. The same small business Orwell described doublethink as: minister who introduced the current legislation to re-regulate the industry has previously argued it should The power of holding two contradictory beliefs in one’s mind be deregulated. She now argues for reinstating the fit simultaneously, and accepting both of them … To tell and proper person test she previously argued should be deliberate lies while genuinely believing in them, to forget any fact that has become inconvenient … removed. The coalition is spinning so fast it is dizzy. The Premier’s credibility is taking a standing eight The inconvenient fact the Premier has forgotten to tell count. The Minister for Innovation, Services and Small Victorians is that he was a minister in the Kennett Business has been KO’d by ideology. The Minister for government that removed the fit and proper person test, Sport and Recreation remains mute on this matter. allowing underworld figure Mick Gatto to recently be Mick Gatto has handed back his promoter’s licence to granted a licence as a professional boxing promoter. If the board. the Premier forgot the inconvenient fact that the Kennett government in which he was a minister had I support a fit and proper person test for boxing removed the fit and proper person test, all he had to do promoters, and I call on the Premier to apologise to the was consult his deputy Liberal leader. She has been Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Board and its recycled as the minister for small business, which she long-serving chairman, lawyer Bernie Balmer. The
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Premier should also inform Victorians of the had many world champions in its midst. People might inconvenient truth concerning the Mick Gatto spin. To remember Rocky Mattioli, a Morwell boy who do so would be fit and proper. immigrated from Italy. He was a light middleweight champion who had a professional career that spanned Mr NORTHE (Morwell) — It gives me pleasure to some 12 or 13 years in the 1970s and early 1980s. rise this afternoon to speak on the Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Amendment Bill 2013. The bill Rocky Mattioli’s career culminated in winning the does a number of things, including requiring that World Boxing Championship (WBC) light certain specified requirements be met by a person middleweight title, which he defended on a couple of before a licence can be issued to, or renewed by, a occasions. It is interesting to note that Rocky was a person under the act; providing for the cancellation or Morwell boy and some of his first professional bouts suspension of a licence under that act if certain were held there. He went on to fight at Festival Hall, specified requirements are not met by a licence-holder; which was well known in boxing circles, and then requiring a person acting as a timekeeper to be licensed; ventured around the world, during which time he enabling the Chief Commissioner of Police to provide ultimately won the WBC light middleweight title. advice to the Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Board with respect to a person applying for or holding a Of course Lionel Rose would also be well known to licence under the act; and making other consequential members in the chamber. Lionel came from the amendments to the act. Warragul-Drouin area and went on to become our first Indigenous world champion in 1968, when he won both This is all about making sure that we have the utmost the WBC and World Boxing Association bantamweight integrity in boxing and combat sports. As we have seen titles, which he defended three times. over recent times in terms of other sports and forms of recreation it is important we have that integrity not only Will Tomlinson, who is from Bairnsdale, in the enhanced but retained into the future. As the member member for Gippsland East’s electorate, is undefeated for Gembrook said in his contribution, Victoria has a at this point in time. He holds the International Boxing fully integrated scheme that regulates professional Organisation world super featherweight title. boxing and combat sports. It is very important that we These guys are inspirational to many locals. It is not have that, because what is paramount for participants and those associated with the sport is to ensure that the just about the physicality of these sports; it is about safety, health and wellbeing of participants is people gaining confidence from participating in and maintained at all times and that the integrity of the sport obtaining skills from them. That is just a quick outline is upheld. Victoria was the first state to introduce laws from a local perspective. to regulate boxing in 1975. The member for Gembrook In terms of the bill before us, there are many regulatory gave some background as to how that came to pass. controls currently in place to determine whether a Professional boxing and combat sports are an important licence will be granted to a person who is involved in part of activity not only in metropolitan Melbourne but professional boxing or a combat sport. This can be of a trainer, judge, referee, matchmaker or promoter. in regional Victoria as well. Boxing clubs and combat sports that are undertaken in them provide an important Interestingly, in New South Wales, South Australia, outlet for many people, and they are very popular, Western Australia and Tasmania a fit and proper person particularly in the Morwell electorate. Whilst test forms part of the regulatory controls of those states. professional boxing, kickboxing and other forms of At the moment Victoria does not have this regulatory control, and the government is seeking to address that martial arts are captured under the act it is important to note that some traditional forms of martial arts such as issue through this legislation. karate, judo and tae kwon do are deemed amateur The Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Board, sports and are not captured by the act itself. which determines whether to grant or renew a licence, will now also have to factor in whether a person is a fit If I could just talk about kickboxing for a minute, it was interesting to note that Stan Longinidis, a kickboxer, and proper person when it considers allocating or was recently inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of renewing a particular licence. The board itself must Fame. He joins a number of people from both the have at least five but no more than seven members. boxing fraternity and other combat sports who have Bernie Balmer is the chairperson of the board. The board must comprise a number of different people. For been inducted, including Vic Patrick, OAM. If I could just reflect on professional boxing from a local example, it must have a member of the police force of perspective for a moment, Gippsland is proud to have Victoria and no more than five people who, in the
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opinion of the Minister for Sport and Recreation, have a bill also changes the means of controlling timekeepers good knowledge of boxing or one or more combat from being listed by the board to being formally sports. licensed. Essentially this will mean that this role is subject to the same regulations as other roles relating to I note that the Minister for Sport and Recreation has professional contests. just walked in. It is great to see him at the table. He has a great passion for this bill and for making sure we have The bill also creates a duty for a licensed promoter not more people more active more often. to employ a person who has been refused a licence or had their licence cancelled because they are not a fit As the member for Caulfield articulated in his and proper person to hold a licence in relation to a contribution, the fit and proper person test already professional contest. This is extended to a business applies in many other industries and sectors — for relationship or arrangement. It is designed to stop such example, in the private security industry. The test has people entering third hand into competitions as well. I also been applied on many occasions in the gaming and commend the Minister for Sport and Recreation on liquor industry. Whether you are a real estate agent or a bringing a very good bill before the house. motor car trader, a fit and proper person test applies. We are now extending that test to professional boxing Mr PERERA (Cranbourne) — I wish to make a and combat sports. brief contribution to the debate on the Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Amendment Bill 2013. The The circumstances under which a person is guts of the bill are aimed at strengthening the controls automatically prohibited from obtaining or holding a relating to the probity of participants in the boxing and licence under the act are articulated in the act and in the combat sports industry. Before 1996 it was Victorian second-reading speech. These circumstances include law to subject all industry participants to a fit and being convicted of an indictable offence and sentenced proper person test. Then in 1996 the coalition to imprisonment for 10 or more years; being subject to government took to the ideological position of reducing a control order under the Criminal Organisations regulation and it removed this requirement. This Control Act 2012; being subject to an exclusion order allowed even those with a criminal history to obtain a by the Chief Commissioner of Police in relation to the licence — what a short-sighted policy! casino or racecourses; and comparable convictions and sentences, as well as comparable orders, in other states The debate at the time was led by the current leader of or territories. government business in this house, who was then the Minister for Small Business and a member for Monash When considering the probity of an applicant, the board Province in the Legislative Council. The minister said can refer an application to the Chief Commissioner of this was part of the government licence simplification Police for advice. The chief commissioner would then program for which she carried responsibility. I request provide that advice to the board. that the government review the legislative changes made under the licence simplification program to make The bill also includes provisions to protect sensitive sure all such stupid changes are fixed, because this information used by the Chief Commissioner of Police simplification program created many loopholes in other when providing advice to the board in the event that the legislation as well. board’s decision is reviewed by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). This follows other Under the new legislation a person will be procedures to protect sensitive information. If VCAT automatically prohibited from obtaining or holding a receives an application for review of a decision by the licence if they are convicted of an indictable offence board to refuse, not renew or cancel a licence, it must and sentenced to imprisonment for 10 years or more. ask the board whether the reasons for its decision were Even if this person demonstrates good behaviour after based on advice provided to the chief commissioner. If having served their time and been released into the this is the case, VCAT must then ask the chief community, they will still be disqualified from holding commissioner if any of the advice provided to the board a licence. I think this is something that should be was based on protected information. That provides considered in the future, because people who are another control for the protection of sensitive rehabilitated need to earn a livelihood. information. A person is automatically prohibited from obtaining or Importantly, the bill also provides for the board to vary, holding a licence if that person has been subject to an suspend or cancel existing licences, which is important exclusion order made by the Chief Commissioner of in the context of what we are talking about today. The Police under the Casino Control Act 1991. When
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Crown Casino had manual card-shuffling blackjack Victoria because the board may not permit them to do tables, card counters were banned from entering the so. casino. These people were not engaged in criminal activities; they had simply developed card counting Victoria is currently doing about 60 to 70 shows a year. skills to try to beat the system. It was smart playing if The industry is alive and well. It is a good industry; it is indeed they were really able to beat the system. If they an industry that keeps the state ticking over by were subject to an exclusion order, they will now also contributing to the economy. Labor believes a national be prohibited from obtaining a boxing licence because framework for combat sports led by Victoria — they will fall into this particular category under the bill. because Victoria is the sporting capital of Australia — needs to be agreed to at a meeting of the Council of The changes to the licensing regime affect those who Australian Governments. Regulatory reform is required act as promoters, matchmakers, referees, judges, to produce a uniform national code of practice for all trainers and also people acting as timekeepers. After the states and territories, as well as the introduction of a bill is enacted, timekeepers will need to obtain licences. safe alternative to the boxing ring for mixed martial arts A person will need to be registered and to have events. A move towards national regulation was raised obtained a licence 28 days before a match in order to be previously at a meeting of all sports ministers but has a timekeeper. If the promoters are not careful and not gone anywhere. conscious of this requirement, then in some instances This bill will make boxing and combat sports much the match itself could be jeopardised. At present cleaner and will fix the problems created in 1996 by the promoters can pick anybody — even someone in the simplification process of the Liberal-Nationals coalition audience — to be the timekeeper as that person government. Many years later this legislation is a step currently does not need a licence. in the right direction, and therefore I wish it a smooth passage. If this legislation is passed, then in circumstances where the licence-holding timekeeper cannot attend on the day Mr WATT (Burwood) — I will quote the lyrics of a due to sickness or for any other reason, the match will well-known song. They are: have to be cancelled. Promoters may well need to obtain licences for more than one person to make sure Rising up, back on the street an event runs smoothly. This will come at a cost: I Did my time, took my chances believe the registration will cost $100. The payment of Went the distance, now I’m back on my feet the licence is incumbent upon the promoters; the Just a man and his will to survive. opposition does not oppose this, but it is an issue. So many times it happens too fast You change your passion for glory All in all this bill is a step in the right direction. It puts Don’t lose your grip on the dreams of the past in place safeguards to ensure combat sports are clean, You must fight just to keep them alive. competitive environments. These legislative requirements come on top of the new rules introduced It’s the eye of the tiger It’s the thrill of the fight by the Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Board Rising up to the challenge of our rival in 2013. The board also advised the minister on these And the last known survivor issues. Stalks his prey in the night And he’s watching us all with the eye of the tiger. According to the new rules the prescribed registration, as well as fitness and serology testing, must be Face to face, out in the heat completed in full and the paperwork handed over to the Hanging tough, staying hungry board no later than 24 hours before a match. The only They stack the odds ‘til we take to the street exception is in cases of the late arrival of overseas For the kill with the skill to survive. fighters whose flights have been delayed. Eventually it It’s the eye of the tiger becomes the responsibility of the promoter of the event It’s the thrill of the fight to make sure that fighters are fit to fight and properly Rising up to the challenge of our rival registered in Victoria. Registration-holders in other And the last known survivor jurisdictions such as New South Wales, South Australia Stalks his prey in the night and Western Australia are exempt; all those coming And he’s watching us all with the eye of the tiger. from other jurisdictions will have to obtain a licence. If Rising up, straight to the top a competitor is registered in Victoria or intends to come Had the guts, got the glory to Victoria to fight on a pro card and they have a very Went the distance, now I’m not going to stop poor fighting record, they may not be able to fight in Just a man and his will to survive.
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It’s the eye of the tiger The downside of that is when the wrong people get It’s the thrill of the fight involved in sport and corrupt that dream and that vision. Rising up to the challenge of our rival Only recently we have heard of soccer teams whose And the last known survivor members have corrupted that sport, and we know about Stalks his prey in the night And he’s watching us all with the eye of the tiger. cricket. I love my soccer; I am a member of the Melbourne Victory. I am a huge fan, but not such a big The eye of the tiger fan of the Melbourne Heart. It is disappointing that The eye of the tiger Harry Kewell is a turncoat and has ended up playing for The eye of the tiger the Heart when he was a Victory man, but that is okay. The eye of the tiger. The point I am trying to make is that if we cannot make My kids know that song quite well; I have a sport incorruptible, then we need to make sure that 12-year-old and a nine-year-old. I would have sung it if people view sport as being above board and that the not for the fact that it would be unparliamentary for me people who are associated with sport are fit and proper to do so. But I make the point that my two boys know people. that song quite well because it is one of my favourite Some people can go off the rails, and we are not songs and I play it regularly for them. Now that I am necessarily talking about somebody who is able to get standing here and speaking on this bill I am reminding in there and compete. We all know the story of Rocky myself that I should probably pull it out of the cupboard Balboa, who is a collection man for a shady character. and put it back in the CD player so the kids can hear it He was not necessarily the type of person you would again. want running the sport, but as a participant in the sport The movie from which that song comes is one of my there was no issue. However, when people are running favourite movies in one of my favourite groups of a sport, you need to be confident that those people are movies. It is the story of Rocky Balboa and it is about going to do what is in the best interests of that sport and taking your chance when you get the chance. If you get the participants in that sport. The Professional Boxing knocked down, you get up again. In his contribution the and Combat Sports Amendment Bill 2013 seeks to do member for Essendon talked about the romanticism of that. boxing, and I agree with him that there is a romanticism In effect approximately 320 people who currently hold about people who have no ability to do anything else. In licences as operators, promoters, matchmakers, one of the movies Rocky Balboa quotes something his referees, judges and trainers will be covered under the father said to him, ‘You weren’t born with much of a act, including 60 people who have a licence to brain, ya know, so, uh, ya better start using your body, undertake different roles, plus another 14 who are right?’, but that is not to say that everybody who is timekeepers. The bill will cover 46 promoters, involved in boxing has no brains. 35 matchmakers, 43 referees, 40 judges, 240 trainers, The Minister for Sport and Recreation talks about and as I said, 14 timekeepers. We want to make sure getting more people more active more often, and I think that they are fit and proper persons for the sport and that that is a fantastic motto. One of the things that gets me there is a public interest in their being involved. going is knowing that kids especially have the I have listened to members on the other side talking opportunity to play sport and make something of about history from 20-odd years ago and trying to say themselves. I talked earlier about Rocky Balboa and the they corrected a massive problem. Fortunately I am one fact that in the movie he talks about having no brains, of the lucky ones who was not here for the 11 long, but the thing I think we should aspire to as members of dark miserable years of hard Labor, during which those Parliament is making sure that children have the opposite did nothing that achieved anything for the opportunity to progress in life. I have talked a number people of Victoria. If they really thought there was a of times about my history and where I came from, and problem that needed correcting over those 11 long, one of the things I attribute my standing here in this dark, miserable years of hard Labor, they would have house to is the fact that I was given a good education. I got off their backsides and done something about it. We progressed along a different educational path than are fixing what is perceived to be a problem with others in my family and I was able to progress in sport people having the potential to get a licence. The and did fairly well in junior sport and into the senior problem with the system is that the board has no ability ranks. That has put me on a good path in life. I think to determine whether it is in the public interest or sport in general has the ability to do that. whether they are a fit and proper person to promote or be involved in the sport. Currently the board has no choice but to issue a licence to a person who can
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demonstrate they have the knowledge and skills. It is Being a little bit older and wiser one starts to fine to have the knowledge and skills, but we want to understand that governance arrangements over the past make sure that they have integrity and the right decade have been a focus for governments. This was intentions. particularly the case during the terms of the Bracks and Brumby governments when we saw governance As I said, I occasionally watch the sport of boxing. improvements and changes relating to a range of areas, Other members may not appreciate all the different whether in the racing industry, in regard to hospital and sports, but during the Olympics I love watching all the practice boards or cemetery trusts. In more recent years sports. I particularly like sitting in front of the television we have even seen changes in terms of oversight bodies 1 and watching 3 ⁄2 hours of a 50-kilometre walk, but not that have a role in relation to members of Parliament. It everybody would necessarily want to watch every step. is no surprise that we are again considering matters in That is me; I will watch it. I like watching many other relation to the boxing industry, perhaps one of the last sports as well, but I want to make sure that the people bastions in Victorian sport needing greater involved in those sports are suitable to run the sports. accountability and better governance arrangements. For the member for Eltham, the walking event is probably one of the most enthralling events in the The behaviour of the Professional Boxing and Combat 1 Olympics. I watched it for 3 ⁄2 hours and saw Jared Sports Board is interesting. Having read the legislation Tallent come in second with a brilliant performance. He introduced by the government, I am surprised we have is a proud Victorian, and as a member of the Victorian not seen the board show some leadership in this area Parliament I am proud to see a Victorian out there and put forward to government some of its own doing a great job at the Olympics. It is remiss of me not suggested reforms that perhaps could have seen these to know at exactly which event he recently got a bronze matters dealt with much sooner. The board should not medal. It is fantastic for Victoria that we have such take any pleasure from being outed by a public outcry great competitors in many sports, including walking. over decisions it has made that do not pass the smell Kickboxing has been talked about, and members have test. Perhaps it made a choice that somehow it is also talked about people in other sports. absolved from any leadership in these matters or from being held accountable because ultimately it is acting I could speak for a very long time on this bill, but I under legislative parameters. It is still incumbent on the would like to finish up by saying that when it comes to board to show leadership and bring forward to the the member for Lara talking about cage fighting, his government of the day reforms to increase community hypocrisy knows no bounds. I note in December 2008 confidence in its integrity and the way it manages the the minister then responsible, the member for Monbulk, sport and fulfils its duties. banned cages, but we now hear the opposition say that maybe we should reintroduce the ability for people to It comes as some surprise to me looking at these use cages. As I said, hypocrisy knows no bounds. We matters in relation to the bill that the board has not need to know that integrity in sport is paramount as we chosen to show more leadership in the way it has encourage more people to be more active more often. conducted itself on these matters. It might have led to some of the changes we are considering today coming Mr CARBINES (Ivanhoe) — I am pleased to make from its leadership, which has been lacking, rather than a contribution to the debate on the Professional Boxing a response being required from the minister and the and Combat Sports Amendment Bill 2013. In thinking government in relation to community outcry and media about my contribution on the bill I reflected in the first embarrassment over the way the board has chosen to instance on boxing contests. I grew up watching boxing pursue matters. contests and recall the names of Fenech, Ellis, Michael, Tyson and Holyfield. At the time I was thinking about I would like to acknowledge that in the past some of the the contest in the ring and not so much about framework of this legislation was the result of work by governance arrangements, integrity, the way in which the former member for North Geelong, Neil Trezise. I the sport is managed for Victorian audiences or even got to know Neil well in my time living and working in the colourful histories of the management of the sport Geelong. He was a passionate supporter of boxing and around the world. Very much like the sport of racing, a long-serving Victorian sports minister. He was very boxing has a colourful history, and in relation to both much involved in the legislative framework in relation sports it is no surprise that there is a history of to these matters and integrity around boxing. Some of regulation and legislation in state Parliament. that was touched on by the member for Gembrook in Recreation activities and entertainment enjoyed by relation to tragic circumstances in Geelong some people requires some oversight by government. 30 years ago. An individual from Thomson lost their life in a gala day boxing bout, and as the member for
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Gembrook touched on, that led to the introduction of a I think the public is interested in particular in those range of boxing legislation and further work in this area clauses of the bill that relate to the fit and proper person by the government of the day. test. They are probably the salient points of the reforms that the government is bringing back through this The member for Broadmeadows remarked on the fact amendment legislation. That is something that it should that in 1996 the Kennett government made some be commended for doing. There is always a desire in decisions in relation to boxing legislation. While there the community to see greater confidence in industries was the claim that that was about reducing red tape, such as boxing. What I think is disappointing — and I what we saw was not just a cut in red tape relating to will reiterate the point — is that when people are how boxing was administered and the legislative appointed to serve on boards such as the one we are requirements around that but also a cut to integrity, considering here, which oversees integrity in boxing oversight and community confidence. All that has now and many of the decisions that are made in that respect, found its way back to this Parliament to undo. These we expect that they not only follow the letter of the law are decisions that were made by the Kennett but also that they show some leadership through their government, and I think it is salient to refer to the experience in the way they deal with these matters. words of the current member for Brighton in Hansard of 1996. She spoke in relation to reforms to boxing The government of the day should expect that when integrity that were passed by the Kennett government at reforms are required, when suggestions are needed and the time. The member said: when policy changes need to be considered, that that information will come from the board members who Firstly, the bill is consistent with the part of the government’s are put forward. Whether they are Governor in Council licence simplification program for which I carry responsibility, and anything that results in a reduction of appointments or are receiving remuneration, they are in licensing and regulation is a highly desirable outcome. leadership positions and there is an expectation from the Victorian community that they will not only apply Members of Parliament come and go. Perhaps not the letter of the law and undertake their responsibilities everyone has gone at the moment, but Hansard is there but that they will also show leadership, have a weather for all time. At some stage time comes for us all, but eye to the future and use their experience to provide the while we are here we should be mindful of the fact that government of the day with an opportunity to consider Hansard stands as a record for all time. It is interesting where reforms are needed. that some people are back in government who have served for many years, who may recall those debates It is a shame that it has taken community concern and and who are now faced with dealing with the an outcry through the media to drive change in this consequences of their previous government’s desire, area. While I commend the government — and the ideologically driven perhaps, to pursue matters of what Labor Party supports the amendments in this bill — I they would call red tape but which really led to less think the board needs to seriously consider its actions oversight and brought discredit to some of the recent and deliberations and why it has not been the one to decisions of the board. They are very interesting points lead and to bring these changes forward. That is that the member for Broadmeadows has raised. something on which it should reflect very seriously. While I commend the amendments that have been There is no doubt that the decisions the legislation has brought forward, I think that it is not only the way in been introduced to deal with, particularly around which the board seeks to apply these matters in the clause 1, relate to the necessity that certain specified future that is important but also that it is incumbent requirements be met by a person before a licence can be upon it to continue to reflect on what has happened and issued — a fit and proper person test, which is touched show some leadership. I commend the bill to the house. on in clause 5, and the details around prohibited persons. In relation to the act we talk about those who Mr THOMPSON (Sandringham) — It gives me have been convicted of an indictable offence or pleasure to contribute to the debate on the Professional sentenced to imprisonment for 10 or more years. We Boxing and Combat Sports Amendment Bill 2013. In are picking up on legislation that has been covered in the eyes of contemporary young Australians the idea of other states. Other points in clause 5 relate to being combat sports is in some ways reflected through subject to a control order under the Criminal presentations from Hollywood and the exploits of Organisations Control Act 2012 and also matters that someone like Jason Bourne. To those who grew up in relate to an exclusion order that has been made by the Australia in the 1960s and 1970s, there were the Chief Commissioner of Police under the Casino immortal acts of combat by people such as Lionel Rose, Control Act 1991 or the Racing Act 1958. Johnny Famechon and Muhammad Ali. I remember my days out at Monash University, when people crammed
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into the science laboratory to watch Muhammad Ali while captain-coach he kicked 10 goals in one game fight. I am not sure whether it was a fight against Sonny against Birchip, a prodigious record; a record that also Liston or George Foreman, but the laboratory where included winning a premiership. Winning a premiership there was a TV set available for people to watch this in a country town is a little bit like a prize fight; particular fight was packed. everyone is there and everyone follows the game and the victors are saluted in no less a way than a boxer There was a poetry to Ali when he took on the ‘gorilla might be. in Manila’. There was the fight in Africa and the role of promoters in developing fights. There was also the A former sports minister in the state, Tom Reynolds, aspect of combat in boxing where Lionel Rose was a was a great enthusiast for all sports, but he had very national hero as he took on Fighting Harada; when the strong concerns about boxing. Tom was a shearer, a skill and finesse of Johnny Famechon was much great cricketer, a great footballer and a great sports applauded by people around the nation; and when minister, who is well followed by the present sports trainers such as Jack Rennie trained future boxers and minister, the member for Lowan. But Tom had provided the backdrop to recent former Australian concerns about the medical impact of boxing, and if he boxers such as Lester Ellis and others who followed in had had his way he may have regulated it out of his wake. Then there was the eloquence of fighters existence. from Sydney who took on the world and became world champions, inspired by the Australian boxers of the The regulations today in the Professional Boxing and 1970s and 1980s. There were those for whom boxing Combat Sports Amendment Bill 2013 have a number was an art form that enabled them under the agile of purposes, which include that certain specified guidance of good promoters to make their way in the requirements be met by a person before a licence can be world from Third World countries to progressively issued to, or renewed by, the person under that act; and serve their fights through the amateur leagues to the provide for the cancellation or suspension of a licence Olympics and into the professional realm. under that act if certain specified requirements are not met by a licence-holder; and require a person acting as There is an unforgettable photo of Muhammad Ali. A a timekeeper to be licensed; and enable the Chief photographer had the ingenuity to place a camera above Commissioner of Police to provide advice to the the boxing ring. In that fight Ali knocked his opponent Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Board in to the canvas; his opponent was flat out on the canvas respect of a person applying for, or holding, a licence and there was an aerial overview of the victor and the under that act; and make consequential and other vanquished which won renown throughout the world as amendments. a famous sports photograph. That is the wider background. In my younger years I attended the Royal Melbourne Show when Jimmy Sharman ran his boxing tent and On 10 October Stan ‘The Man’ Longinidis, a people were invited into the ring to have a go at the kickboxer, was inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of professional boxers. I was there perhaps pre my Fame, an event attended by the Minister for Sport and potential boxing days and did not have the opportunity Recreation. I understand the minster had to go to the to step into the ring, but it certainly presented a event, and presumably he had front row seats. There is roadshow that travelled up and down the eastern also the kickboxing prowess of Eric Bana in the film seaboard providing entertainment to those who The Castle, where up by the shores of Bonnie Doon he attended. was able to improve his personal fitness and develop his skill and finesse. It was very important to Eric Bana, It is important that as the sports capital of the world, whose name in the film was Con Petropoulous. He may Victoria has a range of regulations in place that protect have been inspired by Stan ‘The Man’ Longinidis to the interests of the sportsgoer and of those who develop his fighting prowess. participate in the sport and that there is good leadership within the sport of boxing so that it is well managed I understand the Minister for Sport and Recreation was and that any fights which are promoted are well not a boxer in his day; he never went to the AFL promoted. tribunal as an assailant. In his 46 games with Essendon as a ruck-rover or a captain-coach he never made his There are a number of definitions in clause 5 of the bill way to the tribunal for his pugilistic skills to be judged which allude to a prohibited person as someone: by the wider world. Nevertheless he had the prowess to (a) who has been convicted of an indictable offence for enable him to kick the Sherrin over a wheat silo when which the person is sentenced to a term of imprisonment he was captain-coach of Murtoa. I understand that of 10 years or more; or
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(b) in respect of whom a control order applies and is in In the context of this legislation, the bill aims provide effect under Division 2 of Part 3 of the Criminal greater control over who may enter the professional Organisations Control Act 2012; or boxing profession. These people include boxers, (c) who is a member of an organisation in respect of which trainers, referees, promoters, judges and timekeepers, a control order applies … or all of whom will now be required to be registered with the Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Board. In (d) who is subject to an exclusion order under section 74 of the Casino Control Act 1991; or particular, the bill provides that people wishing to apply for a role within the profession must now pass a (e) who is subject to an exclusion order under section 33 of suitable character test. Previously people of the Racing Act 1958; or questionable character could enter the industry (f) who has been convicted of an offence and given a unchallenged. sentence of a kind corresponding to that specified in paragraph (a) in another State or a Territory; or This bill amends the Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Act 1985 to ensure that a person convicted of an (g) who is subject to an order in another State or Territory indictable offence and sentenced to imprisonment for corresponding to an order specified in paragraph (b), (c), 10 or more years, or someone with a comparable (d) or (e). conviction in another state or territory, will no longer be I have omitted a few words in one of those subclauses. able to enter the profession. While applicants will be There is a view that it is necessary to have a standard of automatically prohibited from entering the profession if performance and integrity in the code that will be to the they have a prior conviction and have been sentenced to benefit of the sport into the medium term. a term of imprisonment as previously stated, they will also be automatically prohibited if they are subject to a When one speaks to the parliamentary attendants in this control order under the Criminal Organisations Control building, every now and again you hear stories that Act 2012 or if they are subject to an exclusion order come off the walls of the building and through the mists made by the Chief Commissioner of Police under the of time. There are stories of pugilistic contests that Casino Control Act 1991, the Racing Act 1958 or a occurred in the Legislative Council chamber in corresponding order in another state or territory. yesteryear. There are other stories of keen combatants just outside the back of this chamber, but they are The decision as to whether to admit an applicant into perhaps buried in the mists of time and not able to be the profession lies with the Professional Boxing and evoked for the purpose of commenting on the bill Combats Sports Board. The board will now have access before the house. to the criminal history of applicants and may request further information about an applicant. The bill amends Boxing is a sport participated in by many, and it is a the principal act to ensure that when an application for a sport that needs to be wisely regulated. This bill makes licence is received by the board it is accompanied by an important contribution to ensuring that the highest documentation specifying any prior convictions or standards of integrity are applied to the boxing code so terms of imprisonment, along with other prescribed that it is conducted in the best interests of professional documents. sport in Victoria, in the best interests of the athletes who participate in it and to further advance Victoria’s In addition to the board’s decision, applications for reputation as the sporting capital of the world. licences will be referred to the chief commissioner, who must provide written advice within 28 days. That Mr LIM (Clayton) — I am very pleased to response may be either an advice of automatic contribute to debate on the Professional Boxing and prohibition because of the commissioner’s view that the Combat Sports Amendment Bill 2013. I propose to applicant is not a fit or proper person or that their entry stick to my script but in the latter part of my into the profession would be detrimental to the public contribution I would like to share my view from the interest. The decision of the chief commissioner will be perspective of my background where traditional protected in the event that the board’s decision is boxing, better known as Thai boxing, is practiced. It reviewed by the Victorian Civil and Administrative originated in Cambodia, and those who have been to Tribunal. If a decision is made to refuse a licence, the Angkor Wat temple will have seen the carvings on details of the decision will be provided to the applicant its walls which illustrate that clearly. I will go on later by the board. The changes this bill introduces will to mention how it is regulated and controlled and also affect all existing industry members who are already how it is respected in that country. It is very much part registered with the board. Existing licences may be of the culture for a young boy growing up in that part of varied, suspended or cancelled if the board deems that a the world. member is not a fit or proper person to hold a licence or
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that their holding of a licence is not in the public cause a knockout and sometimes death. That is why interest. when Thai people go to Cambodia or Cambodians go to Thailand to fight they bring a coffin with them, This character test also extends to any employees or accompanied by a funeral music band. people who enter into a business relationship with a promoter. Promoters may no longer enter into any Having said that, the people who are at the top of this business relationship or arrangement with anyone who profession or sport are national heroes; everybody has been refused a licence by the board because they glorifies them. The sport is also a reminder of the old have been deemed not to be a fit or proper person or days when Cambodia ruled the whole peninsula of because the board forms the view that their holding of a Indochina and its only enemy was Thailand. There was licence would be detrimental to the public interest. a lot of conflict, and in certain cases the top generals or royal households brought out their top boxers and they In general terms I support the bill, and the opposition settled the score between just two people rather than also supports it, because it is obvious that this burning, looting and wrecking a whole province. It is a legislation will screen out people who are not of respectable tradition. Because of that long respectable sufficient character to hold a licence. The measures the tradition, the profession was expected to regulate itself. bill introduces will go a long way towards improving I have never heard of any unseemly or darker side to it the integrity of boxing and combat sports in Victoria, or of any people being involved in it who should not be. and I commend Victoria Police and the Professional It is a respectable profession. I wonder to this day why Boxing and Combat Sports Board in particular for their UNESCO has not made it a world heritage sport and hard work and assistance in developing these changes. the International Olympic Committee has not adopted it as a sport, as it did with tae kwon do and karate. With I mentioned earlier that it would be remiss of me not to that contribution, I wish the bill a speedy passage. put my view from the perspective of where I came from. Combat sports in Cambodia, my birthplace, is Mr BULL (Gippsland East) — It is with great just part of growing up for many young men and now pleasure that I rise to make a contribution on the many young women. We take these sports very Professional Boxing and Combat Sports Amendment seriously and we honour them, therefore they are Bill 2013. It is great to see the Minister for Sport and self-regulated. Every time we have a major combat Recreation at the table. At some points during his sports event people from all walks of life are involved, distinguished football career I believe he treated from the motorcycle taxidriver to the prime minister to football like a bit of a combat sport. I commend him on members of the royal household and the king. Their introducing this legislation to the house. To allow eyes are glued to the television screen if they cannot people of questionable character to run professional attend in person. These events are promoted. boxing and combat sports is simply not in line with current community expectations. The bill addresses the Each event is almost a festival in its own right. They are current situation whereby people must be granted a now very much international affairs, because many licence regardless of their standing in the community or combatants from all over the world come to join in. their reputation. This is what is better known in the west as Thai boxing. We in Cambodia call it free boxing because all parts of As has been mentioned by previous speakers, the the body can be used as weapons. You can imagine the people of this state and the wider community are great knockout or damage from a blow from the elbow or lovers of all sports — there is no doubt about that. We knee or from a side kick, which is not like a kick in are the sporting capital. A number of sports that have karate or tae kwon do kick because it uses the shin. It been mentioned — racing, cricket and AFL — have does so much damage it can break a rib. overarching bodies that look after their integrity. A lot of resources and effort go into protecting the integrity Not many people are aware that the music played while of these popular sports. Those attending matches, the two combatants are boxing in the ring in Cambodia having a wager or taking any other interest in these or Thailand — the two major countries that enjoy free sports know that they are doing so in relation to a boxing — is funeral music. This means we take this sporting event that is subject to very tight scrutiny. fighting very seriously; it comes with responsibility and Professional boxing and combat sports have no honour. If I am not wrong, the member for Caulfield overarching bodies, and that is one of the main reasons mentioned that in the 1860s some fights went for the government regulates in these areas — to promote 34 rounds. The type of combat I am talking about safety, reduce risk and uphold the integrity of these would not last more than two or three rounds, because a sports in general. king hit by the elbow or the knee is so severe that it can
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Boxing is a great sport. I have gained a greater insight The bill amends the criteria for issuing licences to into boxing with the current world champion Will participate in the industry. These licences include those Tomlinson, a friend of mine, coming from Bairnsdale. for adults acting as promoters, matchmakers, referees, He has certainly made his mark on the world stage in judges and trainers, and now the bill provides that a recent years. He is a great advocate for sport and for person acting as a timekeeper must be licensed and on boxing in particular. the register of the board. As somebody who, like most if not all of us, loves sport and boxing, I welcome this The circumstances that would prohibit a person from bill and any efforts made to clean up the industry. Let holding a licence were developed in consultation with us be absolutely clear: if we love the sport and really Victoria Police. They are intended to automatically understand what boxers — amateurs, professionals or disqualify people of poor character and reputation otherwise; athletes — have to go through to do well in without excluding other groups. For that reason, the the sport they love, we must protect them. We have to provisions in the bill are designed to capture significant deliver safety in as transparent a system as possible. matters that relate to probity. As has been mentioned, some relate to a person having been convicted of an I have been a little bit involved in this sport. I have been indictable offence and sentenced to 10 years or more in close to many athletes in the game, and I know that prison, but there is also provision for convictions for these people do it tough. They train hard, and by and lesser offences to be picked up under this new large they do so with enormous difficulty. legislation when it comes to deciding whether those Fundamentally and primarily they are very humble convicted are fit and proper persons to be involved in people who love their sport, and what they do is this sport. tremendous. The government and opposition owe it to these people to deliver and regulate a transparent It has been asked whether it would be better to apply system. I welcome many, if not all, of the this probity test only to promoters. If that were the case, recommendations and provisions made by this bill. people of questionable character might become involved in other capacities such as by being The bill defines circumstances whereby a person is matchmakers or judges. Simply introducing probity automatically prohibited from obtaining or holding a tests for all but one or two roles licensed under the licence under the act. These circumstances include act — such as excluding trainers, for instance — would being convicted of an indictable offence and sentenced present a risk that such people might fill other roles to imprisonment for 10 or more years, which I think is within these sports. There is no need to apply this test to reasonable and acceptable, or having a comparable contestants in bouts. Contestants who become involved conviction and sentence in another state or territory; in sport are often looking for a bit of direction in their being subject to a control order under the Criminal life. They are often looking to get back on track and Organisations Control Act 2012, either as an individual make a real difference in their lives through sport. This or as a member of a declared organisation, or a is a common-sense bill. I wish it a speedy passage, and corresponding order in another state or territory; or I commend it to the house. being subject to an exclusion order made by the Chief Commissioner of Police under the Casino Control Act Sitting suspended 6.30 p.m. until 8.02 p.m. 1991 or the Racing Act 1958 or a corresponding order in another state or territory. Mr LANGUILLER (Derrimut) — First of all I indicate my appreciation to the Minister for Sport and I welcome these provisions; they are good. I commend Recreation and the government for allowing me to say them because I have been close to this sport. In my time a few words about this important bill. I also extend my I have known people in the sport, including Barry appreciation to the Government Whip, because he Michael, who used to train in a shed in Altona. Having helped make it possible for me to make a contribution a Latin American background and having known to the debate. I also thank my parliamentary colleague amateur athletes going back a long way, I can tell the member for Lara, the shadow Minister for Sport and members that the best thing we can do for the guys Recreation, who has done extensive work and who involved in the industry, and for boxing and other dares to think outside the square in relation to this combat sports in general, is to clean them up and be important bill. The government understands that the absolutely determined to ensure that these athletes are opposition is not opposing the bill, the intent of which protected as much as they can be. Unfortunately, as is to strengthen controls relating to the probity of with other industries, combat sports, particularly industry participants. boxing, sometimes become contaminated by individuals who take advantage of good athletes and sportsmen and women to corrupt the industry and the
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sport. Whatever can be done to clean up this situation the industry so it can run well. We say that more needs and regulate the sport to ensure that athletes are safe to be done in order to strengthen the boxing and combat and protected should be done. I welcome such reforms. sports industry in Victoria. We can and should lead the way nationally. We welcome the propositions advanced However, the shadow minister very respectfully has by the shadow minister and the opposition in relation to also advanced concerns to the minister and the there being a national framework for combat sports led government, and we hope the minister and the by Victoria. I ask the minister and the government to government — particularly the minister, who lead the way and undertake the establishment of that understands regional and rural issues — take them into framework. account. I have been close enough to this sport to understand the complexity of, for example, attracting In conclusion, combat sports are not necessarily my timekeepers. In the city — in the CBD and in the favourite, but I have been around sports long enough to well-run and well-funded tournaments that the industry know that unless you regulate them and work with may run — it is easy to attract timekeepers and there is them, they can go underground. I will not name them, no issue. However, the industry is not just made up of but there were underground sporting practices followed well-funded and well-resourced groups who run these in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly in combat sports. games. I remember only too well that in rural and Unless you work with sporting communities, establish regional areas there are times when it is difficult to get architecture and make provisions for sports to happen people to be timekeepers; they cannot always be found. legally and in a well-regulated manner, you do not In some sports they can be found, but in others they protect the safety and wellbeing of the athletes. They cannot. I suggest that the government make resources may go underground eventually. Not in my electorate available to ensure that timekeepers can be trained and, but in the electorates of other members, underground if need be, paid, because they cannot always be found sporting competitions could well be held without the and if we are to license them, then they should be paid. supervision that is required and therefore without the I welcome this reform. I also think it is important that safety that is required. promoters, trainers, matchmakers, referees, judges and timekeepers hold licences. We call on the government and appeal to the minister to consider that maybe the best way forward is to regulate If that is done, then the next question is: in order to and strengthen the mechanisms that are required for the ensure that the sport can continue, particularly in protection of the athletes. In general I welcome this bill. remote, regional or rural areas, should provisions be I think it is a good initiative. Fundamentally, if we love made to provide some assistance to events held in these boxing and combat sports, we must welcome making areas? For example, if a tournament is organised and its this industry transparent. We must rid it of any crooks timekeeper is not properly licensed, then the event that may be around it, because they do not work in the cannot take place. Such a circumstance affects the interests of the athletes and the athletes should be athletes who have trained hard and who have looked protected. forward to the tournaments. All of a sudden an entire tournament can collapse, despite the regulatory regime, Debate adjourned on motion of Dr SYKES which I think is good and should be welcomed. More (Benalla). often than not this is likely to happen. Debate adjourned until later this day. I used to be a little involved in and close to this industry and these athletes, so I know there are times when CORRECTIONS AMENDMENT (PAROLE somebody has to be pulled out of the audience and REFORM) BILL 2013 asked to do the timekeeping, otherwise a tournament would not take place. I point out that these athletes go Second reading through much training, including getting up at 4 in the Debate resumed from 19 September; motion of morning, training, going to work and then coming back Mr WELLS (Minister for Police and Emergency and doing more training. Despite all the regulation, Services). tough as it is and should be, and the requirement of licensing of timekeepers, these arrangements should not Government amendments circulated by be impediments to continuing to promote the industry Mr WELLS (Minister for Police and Emergency and boxing and other combat sports per se. Services) under standing orders.
As the minister would be aware, we in the opposition Ms HENNESSY (Altona) — I rise today to speak are saying that we need to make resources available to on the Corrections Amendment (Parole Reform) Bill
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2013. At the outset I wish to place on the record that the eligible to be appointed as the chairperson of the board. Victorian opposition will be supporting this bill. The It provides for the appointment of a deputy chairperson bill deals with some of the less controversial elements of the APB and for a maximum term of office. It also of the Callinan review recommendations. In essence it provides for registered victims to be notified before goes to the governance structure of the parole system release of a prisoner on parole. by enshrining in legislation one of the indicia that the parole board is required to consider when considering The first of these purposes, to include in statute the parole decisions. It provides an extra notification notion that safety and protection of the community is opportunity to victims and broadens the pool from paramount in parole decisions, is noble, and we support which the government could appoint members to the it. I make the point that, as set out in its manual, the parole board. These are not necessarily controversial adult parole board is already required to apply that recommendations. They are also not parts of the index. Going by my briefing with Corrections Victoria Callinan review that are going to be difficult to during which I inquired about the practical change — implement. I will make some comments on that as I go. and I again thank those officers for their time and their briefing — there really is none insofar as this bill picks Mr Callinan made 23 recommendations following his up an existing practice of the parole board. It could be review. As I have previously outlined in this house on argued, however — and the argument was made to the topic of parole, the opposition is very supportive of me — that enshrining that index in legislation affords it measures to effectively reform the Victorian justice a more probative weight. system, particularly to ensure and better protect community safety. I do not think there is one member From the perspective of the opposition the real issue is of this chamber who would contest the proposition that the requirement for the investment of significant there have been some serious, catastrophic and tragic resources to support not just the parole system but the failures in the justice system — and not just at the hand wider community corrections system. It is very easy for of the parole board, may I say. Those failures have been us to talk in the abstract about the need for reform — unforgivable in their consequences. and legislative response is incredibly important — but the efficacy of that is only as great as the resources we I enjoy the fact that all members of this chamber are, I put into it. believe, sincere in their commitment to address the failures in the justice system. We might occasionally In his report Mr Callinan indicated that he considered debate the efficacy of the legislative response to those the workload of the adult parole board to be ‘intolerably failures. We will indeed debate the adequacy of heavy’. There have been calls from all quarters across resource allocation to the justice system — I will make the community, including from people who are intimate some comments on that in the course of my with and work within the justice system, for the contribution — but I do not for one minute contest the government to accept its responsibility to invest the authenticity of the commitment of all members of this additional resources necessary to enable the adult chamber to the broader ideals of ensuring that our parole board and the agencies that support its work to justice system achieves its aim of community safety. be funded properly.
Opposition members fundamentally support the According to the adult parole board’s last annual report, propositions contained in this bill. Whilst we have had the board met on 30 per cent more occasions than it did misgivings about the very secret nature of the Callinan the previous year, when it considered 10 205 cases, review, we support the idea of ongoing review of the which was a 14 per cent rise on the year before that. justice system and the parole system to ensure that we The number of parole releases, denials and are able to build community confidence in those cancellations has risen by 35 per cent between 2010–11 systems. It is our position that they should, however, be and 2012–13, and meetings of the detention and transparent and inclusive processes. supervision order division have increased by 44 per cent over the same period. That is the division charged This bill amends the Corrections Act 1986. It picks up a with the very difficult responsibility of making phrase that is already in the parole board’s manual — decisions around the management of the most serious that is, ‘safety and the protection of the community is sex offenders. paramount in parole decisions’. It makes amendments to the membership of the Adult Parole Board of We therefore see there is an incredible increase in the Victoria (APB) to provide for the appointment of workload and demand in the system. Yet funding retired judges of superior and intermediate courts of increases for the board have failed to keep pace with other jurisdictions. It expands the classes of members that very large increase. As Mr Callinan says, this now
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‘intolerably heavy’ workload really needs to be Given the large growth in the board’s work, having a addressed by way of additional resources as well. In full-time chair is important. There is also a very strong fact the most recent adult parole board annual report desire to increase the sense of accountability and indicates that since 2010–11, staff numbers at the board responsibility around the kinds of decisions that are have decreased by two full-time equivalent positions. being made with respect to parole, so on top of that a That is quite startling in light of the serious nature of deputy chairperson’s position is being provided for by what we expect the adult parole board to achieve, the this bill. That really reintroduces this concept; there massive increase in its workload and the demand in the have been deputy chairpeople in the past. It is an old system. role that existed in a different era. Again, I think that is a sensible proposition, given the heavy workload and One of the issues in Mr Callinan’s report that I was the need to ensure seamless consideration. quite taken by was his noting that the adult parole board is required to deal with 20 to 30 cases a day to give all Clause 7 of the bill provides for the limitation of an matters adequate attention and consider material which appointment to the adult parole board. That is in inevitably identifies many of the risks involved. There response to recommendation 10 of the Callinan report. are significant issues around the paper-based nature of What is being proposed is that nobody can serve longer the material board members are required to deal with. than nine years on the adult parole board. I take it from He identified that as a very serious issue along with the Mr Callinan’s review that the concern he sought to treat need for an electronic case management database. We in that recommendation was the risk of people have seen some of the horrific consequences, right becoming institutionalised in terms of their working for across the justice system, when paper-based systems go the organisation and the desire to bring fresh ideas and wrong. different perspectives to the organisation. I am not quite sure how we landed on nine years as a way of I thought it was quite remarkable that on the day the addressing that risk of institutionalisation, but Callinan report was released the Premier and the nine years it is. We certainly do not have any problem Minister for Corrections said any reform that was to be with those particular provisions. implemented in light of the review would be funded from within the existing budget. Anyone who works There are also some provisions around increased within this system will tell you that is simply not statistical reporting in the annual report. I certainly possible. As I said, having regard to the issues believe that the greater the transparency of the justice canvassed in the Callinan report, it is almost impossible system, the greater the confidence we are ultimately for any parts of our justice system to more effectively likely to build as people seek to better understand the protect the community within the existing budget and difficult dilemmas that a person in the justice system — without further investment, yet that is the proposition whether that be a judge or a parole board we are being asked to accept. decision-maker — has to make, and I think that is a good thing. The next of the bill’s purposes is to amend section 61 of the Corrections Act to remove the requirement that a There is also the introduction of the 14-day waiting judge of the Supreme Court be appointed chair of the period for the actual release date following a parole adult parole board and add the category of retired order being made. That is to ensure that there is judges of a superior court or an intermediate court to adequate time to notify the victim of the actual release the class of members who may be appointed. It date. I should clarify that it is only registered victims removes the requirement that these and other who receive notification of a parolee’s release date. appointments made under existing section 61(2) of the There are existing processes whereby the views of act be on a part-time basis. These are simply a matter of victims are in fact taken into consideration, but one has logic. If you appoint a full-time chair — and I think that to be a registered victim. I certainly support those is a sensible proposition — then you cannot also measures. appoint a full-time member of the Supreme Court. The purpose is therefore to facilitate the appointment of a Further tranches of legislation around parole will full-time chair and also to broaden the class of people inevitably come. As I said, the changes before us are from which an adult parole board appointment may be probably less controversial or difficult to implement. I made. The amendment adds to the current power under encourage government members in the course of their the act to appoint a serving or retired judge of the contributions to the debate to identify for us what Supreme Court of Victoria or the County Court. These recommendations, if any, have already been are sensible reforms, and we certainly support them. implemented by way of administrative action. There are certainly a number of those recommendations that can
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be implemented by administrative action, so it would be where fundamentally they are set up to fail because good to understand which of those, if any, have actually they do not have the tools or the powers to do their jobs been implemented. properly.
I am particularly concerned about the transition from a I know this is a matter of deep concern within that paper-based filing system to an ICT filing system. We sector at the moment; I know these issues have been know that there are great challenges right across the raised with the Minister for Corrections and that he is justice system in getting the information technology currently contemplating his response to them. Again I right so that Victoria Police, the courts, the Adult Parole lend my voice to the importance of addressing those Board of Victoria and Corrections Victoria can talk to issues incredibly quickly because it is often these each other and ensure that appropriate information is staffers who are overlooked due to the fact that we being shared. We have seen horrific errors occur in the develop the laws but we do not often talk about the past because of a misunderstanding around the resources required to implement them. We have staff in application of the Privacy Act as to which law that sector with incredibly high workloads. We have a enforcement agencies are able to access which whole range of staff on casual and fixed-term contracts. information. It is critical that justice agencies have We have a recruitment freeze in place. We see the great access to intelligence when they are fundamentally challenges these staff members encounter around assessing risk or they bear positive legal obligations to accessing information from other law enforcement respond. agency databases.
This is a matter that people from all those law agencies It is in all of our interests to ensure that the system raise with me constantly. It is also an issue that works and that the police, the court system, the parole Mr Callinan has covered. I do not pretend it is an easy system and community corrections staff work as an issue to solve but it is one that I would encourage the integrated body, not just for the sake of community government to address posthaste. Given that the safety but to make sure that we back our very important Callinan review was a closed process, I think it is public sector workforce, which deals with some of the incumbent upon the government to also advise both most difficult offenders in the state, so they have a houses of what action has been taken to date, not just sense that we understand and respect their work and the legislative action. will ensure that they have the correct tools by way of legislation. In my view the government needs to lift its It is incredibly important that we bring Victorians with game when it comes to the resource component. With us when it comes to reform. It is critically important those few words I wish the bill a speedy passage that adequate resources are applied. I know that is a through the house. matter of deep concern to those who are currently working in the area, particularly in the community Mr MORRIS (Mornington) — I am very pleased to corrections sector. Community corrections workers are rise to support the Corrections Amendment (Parole charged with the responsibility of supervising parolees. Reform) Bill 2013. As I and others have said frequently It is an incredibly difficult job and one that we ought in this place over the last 12 months, parole is a better value because we are all appalled when the privilege, not a right. It is no secret that the parole system fails. However, we have to be equally system in this state has not been working as it should. It committed to the system working in the first place and has been broken for far too long. For too long it to resource it properly. supported the interests of convicted criminals over those of victims. It needs fixing. The Callinan review, There is significant concern within the community which was tabled in Parliament less than two months corrections workforce around their workload. As I said, ago, recommended some 23 measures be implemented. they do very challenging and important work. We need The government has committed to the implementation to ensure that we do not value and honour their of all of them. contribution to community safety in just words alone; we need to also value and honour it through resources The failures of the parole system are, sadly, only too and respect. We need to ensure that we protect and well known. An effective parole system is a critical part build a greater workforce capability in the community of an effective corrections regime. If convicted corrections sector. That means being attendant to many criminals are to be genuinely rehabilitated, if they are to of the occupational health and safety risks these staff be placed on a path where they can lead a productive confront. It means supporting them with investment in life, then clearly we owe it to the individual, we owe it proper training, professional development and support. to the public purse — because it is not cheap to keep It means not putting these staff members in a position them inside — but, most significantly, we owe it to
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society to make sure that the system is genuinely has been committed. It is fair to say that the working. This system has not been doing that. As I said, government has been pretty active in this space. That is the house is only too familiar with the tragedies. They as it should be considering the way the system was are a result of that failure. That is not acceptable to the failing to operate. Today we see the first tranche of the government, it is not acceptable to the community and I legislative reform proposed by Justice Callinan. Some am sure it is not acceptable to the house. of the proposals are relatively straightforward and are essentially the ones contained in this bill. Some are Any parole system obviously has to strike a balance. It more complex and require more detailed assessment. It is a delicate balance between the interests of offenders, is obviously important that we get the necessary work the interests of those who are harmed by offenders and done to make sure the system will work in the interests the interests of the community. The current system does of those it is intended to protect. not strike that balance appropriately. It is focused on the rights of the offender; it is not focused on the rights of As I know members are aware, a cabinet task force has the victims or of the community. been formed that includes the Premier, the Deputy Premier, the Minister for Corrections, the Treasurer, the The Callinan review of the parole system in Victoria Attorney-General and the Minister for Police and found that the current approach is not appropriate — Emergency Services. We have all of the heads around not surprisingly, given what I have said. The first the table that we need there. Work has been under way priority of any parole system has to be to ensure the since the report was received. Further measures will be safety and protection of the community and prevent any brought before the house in due course. As has been further depredations of offenders. mentioned previously in this debate, this bill is first and foremost about enshrining a guiding principle in the As the house is aware, there have been extensive act — that is, that the paramount consideration in reforms to the parole system over the last 12 months. In determining whether parole should be granted, whether all matters the government has taken what I think is a it should be varied, whether it should be revoked, considered and indeed a staged approach to reform. whether it should be cancelled or whether a Members will recall that this year we dealt with a bill cancellation of parole should be revoked is in every that became the Corrections Amendment Act 2013. As case the safety and protection of the community. There a result of that act we now have better information are no ifs and no buts: the safety and protection of the sharing between Victoria Police, Corrections Victoria community is the paramount consideration. and the Adult Parole Board of Victoria. We have clarity about when parole should be cancelled where an The remaining provisions of the bill relate primarily to offence has occurred partly during a parole period. The the leadership and accountability of the board. The board now has the authority to cancel parole when an changes provide a strong leadership framework for the offender on parole has been sentenced to any term of board. They include allowing the appointment of a imprisonment. Prior to that change the term for that full-time chair of the board, providing for the offence had to be at least three months. Those changes appointment of a deputy chair and providing that a have been in effect since 30 April. Victorian Supreme Court judge, a County Court judge, a retired superior court judge from another Australian We have also made changes under the Justice jurisdiction or a retired intermediate court judge from Legislation Amendment (Cancellation of Parole and another Australian jurisdiction is eligible to be Other Matters) Act 2013. That legislation ensured that appointed to the board, whether as a part-time or a parole was reviewed or cancelled when an offender on full-time member. parole reoffended, whether they were charged or whether they were convicted. That act also allows The bill also raises the accountability bar. It provides automatic cancellation in the case of serious offences. that registered victims should be given 14 days notice Those reforms commenced on 20 May this year. of a prisoner’s release on parole. That certainly is a significant improvement on the current arrangements. Most recently we considered the Corrections Additionally it requires that the board include in its Amendment (Breach of Parole) Bill 2013, which will annual report the numbers of people convicted of come into operation in the first quarter of next year. serious offences whilst on parole. That will give the That bill makes it an offence to breach the prescribed board, and indeed the public, a very clear indication of conditions of parole, and permits police to arrest a whether the board’s cumulative decision making is in prisoner released on parole if the police have a line with community expectations. suspicion — a reasonable suspicion of course — that an offence of breaching a prescribed condition of parole
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The bill also sets a limit on the potential service of the our community. By its very nature it is trying to predict members of the board: nine years in total, with the future behaviour, which for anybody is an incredibly exception that the chair of the board is capable of being difficult thing to do. Some breaches of parole can result appointed for a further three years. The default in catastrophic outcomes, as we have seen in a number commencement date for this amending act is of high-profile cases, but it does not necessarily mean 16 September 2014, but of course implementation of that the system is broken; it just means that there are the Callinan recommendations is already under way. some really bad people out there who, regardless of Certainly if this bill receives the support of the what is done for them or to them, will continue to Parliament — and it would appear from the member for offend. Altona’s comments that it will — then those reforms can be progressively implemented well ahead of that It is very dangerous for us to suggest that the parole default date. system is somehow broken, because if that is the case, this legislation will not fix it. This legislation makes a Some of the matters that are already under way include number of changes, none of them groundbreaking but the appointment of an acting chief executive officer of all of them constructive in the ongoing way in which the Adult Parole Board of Victoria and full compliance we seek to introduce reforms in this state. We continue with a recommendation that only very experienced to learn that legislation is an organic thing, and we forensic psychologists and psychiatrists can be engaged continue to try to incorporate the things that we learn to prepare assessment reports. That is especially so in along the way and some of the things that occur to cases in which detention might be sought. Full-time cause us to reconsider. In recent times there have been a additional members of the board are being recruited and number of very high-profile cases that have drawn the an electronic system for board matters is expected to be attention of the community and the media back to the operational in December of this year. Regulations parole system and have been used as a means of beating exempting the board from the Charter of Human Rights up on the Adult Parole Board of Victoria. I would like and Responsibilities Act 2006 are also expected to be to spend a minute or two commenting on those cases, presented to the Governor in Council later this month. not to dismiss the tragic outcomes in a number of those cases but to let the facts be known. In one of those We have a duty to the people of Victoria to provide the high-profile cases the perpetrator was not a parolee; state with a parole system that works. I believe that the they had actually finished their parole. Reoffending by proposals before the house today will assist with the parolees is often used as a criticism of the parole board, progressive and complete overhaul of the parole system but in that case it was not due to a function of the parole in Victoria. It is a complex process, as I have said, and board that that reoffending took place. We need to be there needs to be a considered and staged approach. It is very mindful of these things. proceeding, and I think it is proceeding very well. This reform is essential because a parole system that fails the As a former chair of the parole board, Justice Simon state, fails offenders and fails victims is not effective in Whelan, said, one measure — and it is just one terms of corrections. The amendments that we are measure — of the way in which you determine whether putting in place through this process will remedy the a parole system is working is to look at the recidivism situation we have had in which the system has failed rate. He does that, and as he points out, Victoria does the state for far too long. The reforms will provide extremely well when it comes to recidivism rates. certainty, and Victorians need certainty about their Comparisons were made to New South Wales and parole system. I commend the bill to the house. Queensland, and Victoria compares quite well to those states. The rate in Victoria is 35.1 per cent compared to Ms Hennessy — Acting Speaker, I wish to direct a national rate of 39.3 per cent. A recidivism rate of your attention to the state of the house. 35 per cent is still a pretty high rate, but in at least one of those high-profile cases the perpetrator, who now Quorum formed. thankfully is in jail, would fall within that 35 per cent. It Ms DUNCAN (Macedon) — I rise to speak on the is a high rate, but clearly more than 60 per cent do not Corrections Amendment (Parole Reform) Bill 2013. reoffend, so that is but one measure of looking at the Before I make my contribution, I will refer to parole board. Again I think it is dangerous for us to comments made by previous speakers, including you, suggest that the parole board is broken and therefore Acting Speaker. First of all I will restate, as Justice needs to be thrown out. Callinan does in his review, the importance of having a I will now comment on some of the issues that Justice parole system in our state. As members would be well Callinan raised in his review. The parole board aware, parole is a means of reintegrating prisoners into responded to some of the points that he made, and it is
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most unusual for the parole board to come out and provides for registered victims to be notified before the make statements. One of the problems with our release of a prisoner on parole. This often happens. In criminal justice system is that judges and magistrates, fact if someone is a registered victim, often the police and the parole board in many cases, are very reluctant will keep them informed of where the perpetrator is to make any comments in their own defence. within the justice system and where they are Sometimes that is a problem, and it allows progressing down the line with eventual release. Often misinformation or inaccurate information to be repeated a range of orders are put in place to protect victims. and become fact. Justice Callinan made the point that There may be geographic limits to where the parolee the filing system was antiquated. The parole board has can go, all designed to protect the victim in an ongoing been calling for an automated system for some period way. of time, and I will quote from the parole board’s comments in that regard. It said: We have seen many of the failures of the parole board, but the Bayley case would be an example of where To the casual observer files may appear to be difficult to there has been a failure of the various jurisdictions to navigate but they are compiled according to a system and communicate. An automated system would assist with they are orderly and manageable. that. It is amazing to see how antiquated the IT systems As is stated in his report, Justice Callinan attended one that continue to operate in our court systems are, all of meeting and there observed interviews with three which points to one of the most overwhelming prisoners who had their parole cancelled. Justice problems that the parole board faces, which is its Callinan did not attend any meeting where parole was ever-increasing workload and its rarely increased approved. He suggested that in the Bayley case the file budget. I fear that while this government makes big did not contain a detailed analysis and chronology of statements and introduces legislation that makes only Mr Bayley’s history and criminal record. That was not minor changes, the critical issue for the parole board in the case; all that information was in the file. While all its difficult and growing role is for it to be adequately our fingers are pointing at the parole board, there is a resourced. Until those resources are put into the parole chain of command in all these things. For those who board, a lot of these changes will be piecemeal. They may not know, the last court appearance that Mr Bayley sound good and they look good on the front page of the made was in the Geelong court where he sought and Herald Sun, but they make very little practical was granted bail. The police did not object to bail being difference to the way in which we continue to make granted at that time. sure that our communities are safe.
Putting all those general points aside, the bill makes a Mr NEWTON-BROWN (Prahran) — One of the number of legislative changes. Some of them are not most profound failings of the previous government was exactly groundbreaking; in fact they codify what is the way in which the parole system was allowed to go already in practice. I think it is important to emphasise off the rails. The previous speaker, the member for that community safety is and always has been the no. 1 Macedon, gave a lame defence of the parole system consideration of the parole board. What practical under the previous government. She suggested that the difference it may make in the future we will only know changes made by this bill are not significant, and that is with the passage of time. We support that change. in light of her no doubt being aware that the parole Expanding the classes of members eligible to be board itself has indicated that it is indefensible that appointed as chairpersons is a good move. It is good to Adrian Bayley was out on parole when he raped and have a variety of people on the board. We have seen murdered Jill Meagher. piecemeal legislation on the parole board, some of which changes to be perfectly frank are quite offensive It is clear that the former Attorney-General was asleep because they suggest that certain things do not at the wheel. He was too busy social engineering and happen — for example, that there are no victims pandering to those who fight for the rights of criminals interests represented on the parole board. That is not when he should have been turning an eye to looking true. after the interests of victims, their families and the general community. On his watch the parole system This bill provides a maximum term of office for was allowed to descend into farce, on his watch the members. We will not know if that will make a community expectation was not met and on his watch a difference until some time has passed. It also provides culture was allowed to develop at the Adult Parole for a deputy chairperson of the adult parole board. I Board of Victoria — as detailed by Justice Callinan in think that is something that happened in the past. It also his report Review of the Parole System in Victoria — provides for the appointment of retired judges of that has had profound consequences for those who were superior or intermediate courts of other jurisdictions. It attacked, raped and murdered by violent criminals.
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Mr Pakula — Acting Speaker, I draw your attention report — this government had introduced a suite of to the state of the house. legislation to strengthen and tighten the parole system.
Quorum formed. On 20 April this year the Corrections Further Amendment Act 2013 commenced. This act improves Mr NEWTON-BROWN — The member for information sharing between police, Corrections Lyndhurst called for a quorum during my contribution Victoria and the adult parole board. It clarifies when and thereby cut it short by a couple of minutes. We parole can be cancelled if events occur partly during a studied law together at Monash University. As lawyers parole period, and it allows the board to cancel parole if we tend to have ingrained in us the need to stand up for the term of imprisonment was originally more than the rights of everybody, including those who perpetrate three months. violence, but this government and the current Attorney-General have a view that the scales have been On 20 May 2013 the Justice Legislation Amendment tipped too far in favour of the rights of perpetrators. The (Cancellation of Parole and Other Matters) Bill 2013 Callinan report certainly shows that that is the case, and came into effect. It provides that parole is reviewed or this bill seeks to redress that imbalance. cancelled upon reoffending, either upon being charged or on conviction. It allows for automatic cancellation of Justice Callinan’s report was damning. It referred to parole for serious offending. Finally, in the first quarter several violent criminals who had been released into the of 2014, the Corrections Amendment (Breach of community without proper regard to public safety. It Parole) Act 2013 will come into operation. This act will made particular reference to the notorious case of make it an offence to breach a prescribed condition of Adrian Bayley. How devastating for Jill Meagher’s parole, and it will allow police to arrest a prisoner under parents, her husband, family and friends that her death a parole order if it is reasonably suspected that an may have been prevented if the parole system had been offence has been committed. This bill before the house working more effectively, if it had been working in the today will commence on 16 September 2014 if it passes interests of the public, if the scales had been tipped to both houses. find the right balance between the rehabilitation of offenders and looking after the rights of victims and the The bill will amend the Corrections Act 1986 to community. It is a matter of public record that enshrine the safety and protection of the community, Mr Bayley had pleaded guilty to an assault while on and it will make it clear that this is paramount when parole for several violent rapes. He had appealed his reviewing whether to vary, revoke or cancel parole. It sentence for that assault, but inexplicably he had not will appoint a full-time chairperson to the adult parole been incarcerated pending the appeal. board. It will set time limits of nine years for appointments to the board. Importantly it will provide Justice Callinan was very critical in his report of a registered victims with 14 days notice; they will know presumption that had been allowed to develop over the when an offender is being released so they can make years that after their non-parole period has expired appropriate arrangements. It will require the board to every prisoner has a right to parole. Under the Napthine include in an annual report the number of people who government parole is a privilege, it is not a right. It is a have been convicted of serious offences while on privilege you earn, and it is only to be exercised with parole. In other words, the board will be required to the utmost care. At a media conference on 20 August fulfil its duties with greater transparency. The bill will this year the Premier said the government had provide for the appointment of a deputy chairperson, introduced laws that make Victoria’s parole system the and it will also expand requirements in relation to toughest in Australia. He said: people’s eligibility to be appointed to the board. This will include retired judges from other jurisdictions. This report draws a line in the sand. The culture of parole in Victoria must and will change … In previous contributions to this place I have provided Dangerous offenders in the past have been given the benefit details in relation to the victims of people who have of the doubt that they shouldn’t have been. That changes been inappropriately released on parole. For example, today … parole is a privilege not a right. Margaret Burton was killed by her ex-boyfriend — she The Callinan report is significant in that the government had her throat cut with a meat cleaver. Raechel Betts has accepted many of its recommendations, if not most was strangled and dismembered by a parolee, John of them. Those that have not been dealt with already are Coombes, in 2009. Evan Rudd was killed in 2011 over being considered by a special committee. As a result of a parking dispute. Joanne Wicking was stabbed to death the Callinan report — and even prior to the Callinan by Sean Maraffko while he was on parole. Sarah Cafferkey was killed by a parolee following a verbal
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fight. Mersina Halvagis was murdered by Peter Dupas legislation makes are somehow going to be a cure-all while she was visiting her grandmother’s grave. These for the parole system. are all horrible murders that may have been prevented if our parole regime had been strengthened in the way that Let us be clear about what this bill does in practice. It it soon will be by this government. enshrines in legislation community safety as the no. 1 consideration, a consideration which is already no. 1 in In conclusion, most of Justice Callinan’s the Adult Parole Board of Victoria’s manual. Whilst it recommendations are being implemented by this bill, is good for that consideration to be enshrined in and the scales are being tipped back in favour of the legislation, the government ought not kid itself and community and protecting law-abiding people who Victorians that somehow the horrible crimes and simply should not be molested, assaulted or murdered murders we have seen committed by parolees in the by low-lifes improperly released on parole. The culture past will be a thing of the past because of this will change under this bill and the bills before it. The legislation. The government ought not — — laws have changed. This bill adds to the work that has already been done. The Napthine government truly has Mr Newton-Brown interjected. brought in a new era in Victoria for the parole system, and I commend the bill to the house. Mr PAKULA — If the member for Prahran did not say that, he went mighty close to saying it. The ACTING SPEAKER (Dr Sykes) — I call the member for Lyndhurst. Ms Hennessy — We will hold you accountable. Mr PAKULA — As the member for Altona says, Mr PAKULA (Lyndhurst) — Can I say how pleased I am, Acting Speaker, to see you in the chair, we will hold you to it. I also make the point that if we given that it will make it harder for you to heckle me. want the system to operate effectively, then it needs to be properly funded — not just one bit of it; all of it. We Mr Watt interjected. do not need a court system groaning under the weight of all the matters brought before it. We do not need a Mr PAKULA — I say to the member for Burwood legal aid system which is in the middle of a financial that if he wants to call a quorum, I will not take it crisis, as evidenced by the annual report from Victoria personally. The opposition is supporting the bill, as the Legal Aid that we saw only today. We do not need a member for Altona has already indicated to the house. situation where the Premier, as he has done in this We have consistently stated that we support reform of circumstance, says that he is going to ask the adult the parole system, but it would be unwise for anybody parole board to accommodate all of these changes to take the view that somehow this bill will act as a within its current financial envelope, even in an panacea or cure-all for the problems that have beset it. I environment where former High Court Justice Callinan was surprised to hear the member for Prahran go described the work of the adult parole board as through a litany of horrible crimes that had been ‘intolerably heavy’. committed by offenders on parole and to then suggest that those things may not have occurred had this We have a situation where the adult parole board’s legislation been in place. It is terribly unwise for the workload is described by the person chosen by the government or anybody to set that kind of test or bar to government to do the review as ‘intolerably heavy’. jump in these circumstances. It does both this The government asks the adult parole board to Parliament and this legislation a disservice if fundamentally change the way it operates and yet says contributions such as those made by the member for that it all has to be done within the existing funding Prahran, or previously by the Premier, in effect suggest envelope. If the government is not prepared to properly that this kind of thing will not happen anymore after the address the matter of the funding of the justice system, government makes its tough-on-crime parole changes. then it is mucking around and just tinkering at the edges. You are not going to have a justice system run Ms Ryall interjected. properly when you have police in effect acting as corrections officers, when you have Victoria Legal Aid Mr PAKULA — The member for Mitcham says I unable to represent people before the courts and am twisting it. After he had gone through half a dozen 18-month delays in the County Court, when you have horrible crimes, the member for Prahran said quite people stacked and racked in our prisons and clearly that these things may not have happened under everything is put on the long finger, just like the these changes to the legislation. Let us wait and see, but government’s 50-year plans for everything else. I suspect government members will be disappointed if they believe that the very minor alterations this Honourable members interjecting.
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Mr PAKULA — It feels as if I am in a Public head, making some very strong public comments. He Accounts and Estimates Committee meeting! I also spoke on behalf of that board very well, and I think that have to say that the secrecy attached to this whole augurs well to the extent that the parole board should be process has been quite concerning. The fact that the more prepared to comment, explain and defend its Callinan review was conducted in secret and that decisions, and communicate with the Victorian people. Victorians were not given an opportunity to provide I think the Victorian people will be more accepting and any input into that process was a concern. The best the understanding of decisions of the parole board if that government could do to allow community participation engagement — that two-way communication — and in that process was to provide an email address where those explanations are forthcoming. I think that people could register their views after the report had intervention by Justice Whelan was a welcome one. been released. The process demonstrated a lack of commitment from the government to really seek to Mr McCURDY (Murray Valley) — I am delighted understand the views of Victorians about the system. to rise and speak on the Corrections Amendment (Parole Reform) Bill 2013. The purpose of this bill is to We have a situation where we have legislation that the amend the Corrections Act 1986 to provide that the government would have us believe is going to be a safety and protection of our community are absolutely major reform in regard to the parole system and where paramount in the decisions that are made by the Adult the funding is not being provided to address the real Parole Board of Victoria. In some ways I agree with the systemic issues in the parole system, the police force, member for Macedon, who spoke about not all parolees the courts or legal aid. We have a situation where all the being a danger. We need to be careful as the bill really does is tinker around the edges. one-size-fits-all approach will not solve all of our problems. However, Victoria has seen some heinous We have a situation where there has been excessive and crimes committed by people on parole, which has unjustified secrecy from the government in the way it outraged those in our communities, and they have said, has handled it. That excessive and unjustified secrecy ‘Enough is enough!’. This Napthine government has really correlates with the way the government operates not and will not shy away from the tough decisions and in all manner of things. Whether it be the Vincent will do whatever is necessary to protect our report, the treatment of former Chief Commissioner communities where possible. Overland or the situation with Ken Jones — all of these matters have been conducted in secret or in a Star When the member for Lyndhurst talks about us not Chamber. The fact that the Callinan review was done in kidding ourselves that this bill will solve all the a similar way really should come as no surprise to situations and all the problems, I understand what he is anyone. saying. However, he also needs to understand that we have the courage to stand up to try to make changes that However, I want to make a couple of comments about will benefit our community. This is another terrific step the changes that I think are worthy of it. The ability to forward — certainly on the back of the Callinan have retired members of the judiciary sitting on the review — and these are just steps along the way and Adult Parole Board of Victoria is a welcome change. I hopefully will make a considerable difference for our know that the County Court, groaning under the weight communities. There is no doubt Victorians have spoken of its workload as it is, can barely tolerate having sitting loudly and clearly, and we are going to support this cry judges of the County Court off dealing with adult for help with legislation that narrows the scope for parole board matters, or in fact other matters where they those who continue to scoff at the law. As the member are being taken away from their court duties. Every for Macedon said, we have to be careful of a judge in our underfunded court system needs to be heavy-handed approach for those who breach the functioning as a judge and dealing with matters before conditions. I respect that as well, but at the end of the the court. Perhaps if County Court judges are freed day looking after our communities and safety in our from the responsibility of sitting on the adult parole communities is absolutely paramount. This legislation board, you may find that the 18-month wait we are continues to support our strong law and order platform, seeing in the civil jurisdiction of the County Court may which Victorians continue to demand of us. start to come down a little bit as those judges are freed up to do their full-time job, which is to act as judges of The bill’s purpose is also to provide for the the County Court. appointment of retired judges of superior and intermediate courts of other jurisdictions and to expand The other point that I think is worthy of comment is the classes of member eligible to be appointed as a that in response to the criticism by former Justice chairperson. It is also to provide for a deputy Callinan, you had Justice Whelan, the parole board chairperson of the adult parole board. That will provide
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for a maximum term of office and for registered victims some six months out that a prisoner was due for parole to be notified before the release of a prisoner on parole, in the near future, but nothing specific was given to which I will go into in a moment. those victims. It can be quite a shock, because as we have seen, some of the victims still live where they The bill amends the Corrections Act 1986 to implement have always lived and feel threatened if somebody who the first part of the legislative reforms arising from the has committed a crime against them is to be released measures of the Callinan review, as I have said and as and they are not sure when that will be. Certainly the others have referred to this evening. The review was 14 days notice is an improvement for the victims. released on 20 August and identified 23 measures to improve Victoria’s adult parole system. The The bill requires the board to include in its annual government is committed to swiftly implementing a report the number of persons who have been convicted number of the administrative and legislative changes of a serious offence committed while on parole in the that have been recommended in this report. Former previous 12 months or the reporting period. Again, that High Court Justice Callinan undertook the most allows for accountability and transparency. If the parole comprehensive review of Victoria’s parole system in board is doing its job and getting it right, that will be decades. Failures have occurred in the parole system reflected in the annual report, and if it has not been that have led to tragic consequences, and some of those getting it right and people have been convicted in the cases have been spoken about this evening and are previous 12 months, that will also be transparent. known to most of the members of this house. The coalition government and the Victorian people rightly The bill provides that retired superior court and believe that these tragedies are unacceptable, and this intermediate court judges from any Australian will go some way to reducing the chance of these jurisdiction are eligible to be appointed as members of crimes happening again. the board. Again, this gives flexibility. Obviously the full-time chairperson does not need to be a sitting Justice Callinan also found that the system had become judge; they can be a retired judge. That gives flexibility skewed too far in favour of the offenders and away and wider scope for a skills-based approach on the from the victims, because sometimes it is the victims parole board. The Governor in Council may appoint as who are forgotten in these situations, and certainly their deputy chairperson a member of the board who is families and the broader community. The coalition eligible to be appointed chairperson to exercise the government agrees that a long-term process of reform functions and powers of the chairperson when the of the parole system should continue, and this bill chairperson is unable to do so. That is another practical begins the reform process. Other measures that were outcome; the show will go on if the chairperson is not identified in the Callinan review will require further available. detailed consideration to ensure that they are most effectively implemented. This work is being In accordance with measure 7 of the report, the bill will undertaken, and a cabinet task force led by the Premier amend the act to enshrine that safety and protection of himself has been established to consider the complex the community is the most important aspect when we legal challenges involved. Again this is an ongoing are looking at parole. It is not about the rights of a process. We will not change things overnight, but this is person going on parole; it is about looking after the the next step. safety and security and even the perception of safety and security in our communities. We know that being The bill will implement the legislative reforms safe in our community is important, but feeling safe is identified for swift action by amending the act to just as important. enshrine the safety and protection of the community as paramount. It will allow for the appointment of a I am running out of time. I have covered in part the full-time chairperson and introduce time limits for 14 days notice, so I do not think I will go much further appointments to the board, so that board members are into that. not representatives on the board for any longer than An honourable member interjected. nine years. The member for Altona mentioned that in her contribution, and for many reasons that is a Mr McCURDY — No, I just do not know which practical outcome — that is, that nine years is a ones to choose, but I will prioritise them and summarise maximum. I think that is another positive step forward. my comments.
The bill also ensures that registered victims are given at We heard earlier this evening that parole is a privilege least 14 days notice of a prisoner’s release on parole. In not a right, and it is important that we make that the past a registered victim may have been notified message clear. The changes we are making through the
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bill endorse the fact that parole is a privilege and should It is important that I, as someone on the left of politics, be treated that way. We also know that community someone who came here as a human rights lawyer, and safety is our no. 1 criterion when we are considering all of us on this side of the house, honour and expand a changes. The provision concerning the adult parole rights-based, intellectual tradition of those who have board chair speaks for itself, as does the nine-year been the victims of crime, who are so often women and maximum for board members and 14 days notice of a children. While it is critical that we have first-rate prisoner being released on parole. people defending and standing up for those who find themselves on the wrong side of the law, that is not the The legislation will not bring back Jill Meagher and only path for human rights lawyers, and our side of others like her. We hope we do not see such crimes politics must properly develop and respect the language again in this state. Things change, and who knows what of rights of those who have suffered. will happen in the future, but all we can do is try to make the reforms that will prevent such crimes being Similarly, I believe those on the other side of politics committed by those on parole. It will certainly underpin must understand that it is complex and difficult to our law and order platform, and hopefully we can avoid navigate the justice system and that cutting services and some of the horrific crimes we have seen in the past. removing from those who are disadvantaged and All we can do is continue down this path to make sure vulnerable the pathways to a meaningful and that we do our best given the circumstances of the day participatory approach to society compounds and and the evidence we have. We must ensure that expands problems relating to criminal activity and community safety is our no. 1 priority. I commend the making the wrong choices in life. Again I say we need bill to the house. an honest conversation about where resources are allocated, about where rights lie and about where we Ms GARRETT (Brunswick) — It is a privilege to see the future of our community. Clearly there is a rise to speak on the Corrections Amendment (Parole major problem in some of the most deviant and Reform) Bill 2013. It is a privilege for every member of diabolical individuals being released on parole to then this house to speak on the bill, because I know that continue to commit the most appalling and every member keenly feels the losses that our unimaginable crimes. community has suffered with the horrific crimes we have witnessed and experienced, particularly over the We support this bill, but as my colleagues have said, the last little while. This is a deeply distressing issue for concern is that it does not do what it purports to do. In members of this house and the communities they particular we note there has not been an honest represent. Our communities have been deeply conversation. We note that the drafting of the bill was wounded. Of course, though, their wounds are minor conducted in secrecy, and as a community, given what compared to those of the families and loved ones of we have all gone through, the days of secrecy and not those who have suffered. having honest conversations on matters such as these are over. It is clear when you hear the raw stories of the This bill is on a topic that I know each member, families profoundly affected by some of the decisions regardless of the side on which they sit, feels deeply. I that have been made by those in our justice system that know the passion with which people speak, and what I they feel that secrecy has compounded their distress. have heard from them reflects that. The member for We certainly highlight that as a major issue. I Prahran went through a range of heinous situations we understand that these are difficult conversations, but have witnessed, and his voice reflected the pain he they are difficult conversations we all need to have. feels. We all feel a deep sense of loss. We know, particularly in circumstances like the Jill Meagher case, There is no point in making changes if the resourcing is that the justice system failed these people profoundly. not there to back up those changes in a meaningful way, As I speak on the bill, reflecting on the words of those and that is absolutely clear. The fact that the budget for who have spoken before me and acknowledging this the Adult Parole Board of Victoria is just shy of distressing issue, I know that clearly this community $3 million, the fact that we have had a series of needs an honest conversation about the justice system. legislative changes from the government claiming that Both sides of the house need to have an honest it is changing the law and order agenda with no money conversation with the community about the justice to back that up, the fact that we are seeing what could system. Plenty has been said on my side of the house be described as just window-dressing changes to our about the failings of those on the other side in this area, justice system that really are not addressing the area and no doubt I will touch on some of them. where we need to be focusing resources and our attention, is very disappointing.
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The parlous state of legal aid in this community is short importance of the government’s determination to sighted. It is bringing much of our system to its knees, rebalance our criminal justice system to ensure that our and it is compounding costs at the other end. community is safer.
Mr Watt interjected. This bill will amend the Corrections Act 1986 to ensure that the safety and protection of the community is a Ms GARRETT — It is. Trials are being abandoned paramount consideration in whether parole should be and strange decisions are being made. I understand that granted, varied, revoked or cancelled or whether the member for Burwood is agitated about these truths cancellation of parole should be revoked. That is but we are trying to have, as I said, an honest important language because it will give people in my conversation — — community and in the rest of the state some comfort that with these changes to the act their safety and Mr Watt interjected. protection will be the paramount consideration. Clearly, Ms GARRETT — I think the member for Burwood that has not been the case up until now in some cases. should reflect on some of the comments he has made. I The bill also allows for the appointment of a full-time do not mind robust discussion but I would not accuse chairperson for the Adult Parole Board of Victoria. myself of grandstanding. I am not afraid to say that Again, that provision recognises the importance the sometimes I do, but not tonight. government is placing on the parole board getting these These things are critical. If the government wants to decisions right, keeping in mind the consequences of convince Victorians that it has a genuine agenda in this decisions that are not right. The bill will also set a time area and that it wants to clearly address some of the limit for the appointment of members of the board of major failings in our justice system and does not want not more than nine years in total. That again reflects the to compound those failings by creating a system in fact that it is a positive move to have fresh faces and which people are unable to get away from a potential fresh ideas over time on the parole board. The life of crime, then it needs to do a lot more than it has government has accepted that recommendation in the done with this piece of legislation. It needs to do a lot Callinan review. more than it has done with its previous pieces of The bill also provides that registered victims are given legislation in the law and order space. at least 14 days notice of a prisoner’s release on parole. As I conclude on what is a profoundly distressing topic It ensures that the board must include in its annual for every member of this house I ask for that honest report the number of persons convicted of serious conversation. The government holds office, and it is up offences during the reporting period, and it makes a to its members to show leadership on this issue; we will number of other amendments. be holding them to account on that. The secrecy, the That summary, as I said, shows the determination of the lack of resourcing and, to paraphrase the member government to ensure that the parole system, which has opposite — even though I am not supposed to take up not got the balance right in the past, is improved. I interjections — the ‘grandstanding’, have really been would like to be able to say to the house tonight that we all on the government side on so many of these issues. would always be able to ensure that victims are It has failed the Victorian community with hollow considered first and foremost in every instance. The words that are not backed up by genuine change. government is certainly working towards that because it I call on the government to embrace that honest is important that victims of crime have a greater say in conversation, to embrace change and not to fall back our criminal justice system, and this government has, into old language and old habits. Rather, it needs to see since day one, been rebalancing our criminal justice the complexity of, the reality of and the difficulties in system and other aspects of government to ensure that the justice system and do the best it can to make sure public safety is paramount. those who need it the most, the vulnerable and the Let us have the honest conversation that others across victims, actually get the relief and the care they deserve. the chamber have talked about. Under this government Mr GIDLEY (Mount Waverley) — I rise tonight to we will have 1700 additional front-line police. That is a make a contribution to debate on the Corrections and fact; that is the record of the government. Under the Amendment (Parole Reform) Bill 2013 and I intend to opposition when it was in government, Victoria had the comment on the changes the bill makes to our parole lowest, not the second lowest, number of front-line system and then more broadly, in line with the way the police per head of population of any state in Australia. debate has developed tonight, on public safety and the That is the honest conversation.
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Let us have a look at the previous government’s record enforcement duties. In addition, there is the on suspended sentences. It is crucial that we get this establishment of a Victims of Crime Consultative right — that the sentence is appropriate for the crime Committee to provide a permanent reference group for and that rehabilitation opportunities are provided where victims to have input. These are just a few initiatives. possible — not only for the person who has been They are the facts; that is the honest conversation; they convicted but also for the victim and the victim’s are the initiatives that this government has put forward family. from day one. It is a record the community supports. It is a record that gives priority to crime prevention, I turn to deal with suspended sentences. I can only community and public safety and justice and imagine the heartache that a victim of a serious crime or rehabilitation, balancing the needs of victims against a member of their family would feel seeing a convicted the needs of offenders. offender walk out of the courtroom with a fully suspended sentence. It took until 5 minutes to There has also been some commentary by the midnight — a state election year — for the previous opposition in relation to the corrections system. Again government to come to its senses and take up the then let us have an honest conversation. Did we come to a opposition’s policy of abolishing suspended sentences situation where we had pressures on our corrections for serious criminal offences. Let us have that honest system overnight after November 2010? We did not. conversation. We have that pressure on our corrections system because for the 11 years of the previous Labor The Age and the ABC are two news sources I have government it did not get that balance right. It did not come across that talk about that honest conversation. invest in the capacity of the corrections system. It did An Age article of 14 May 2010 carrying the headline not invest the right resources. That is why we have the ‘Brumby in backflip on suspended sentences’ states: problem. The community will not be fooled. It did not happen overnight; it happened over a period of time. The Brumby government, in a major policy reversal ahead of the state election — This government is taking the appropriate measures to undo that damage, but it cannot be undone overnight. this was a state election year — We are building additional capacity, such as the work is set to abolish suspended sentences for serious crimes in that has gone into the Ararat prison, again because of Victoria. the failings of the previous Labor government to get The article describes the government as adopting a that right. If this government had not taken corrective position that was almost identical to that of the coalition action to ensure that the facility could be built, at the time and goes on to say: constructed and completed, our corrections system would have been the worse for it. Again, from a public Victims of crime advocates welcomed the change, but safety point of view, in which this debate has engaged admonished Labor for what one called a spectacular backflip. widely tonight, we would have had additional strain on I say this because of the importance of getting the our policing resources. policy and the conversation right. There is no doubt that I am all for honest conversations; I think we should the determination not to abolish suspended sentences have them. Let us put the facts on the table. In was wrong; it was a failure of the previous government. summary, let us address those facts again. We have This government has taken strong action to abolish abolished suspended sentences for serious crimes; suspended sentences. Those are the facts. introduced 1700 additional front-line police officers, In addition to that, there are a range of other initiatives taking Victoria from the lowest number of front-line that the government has put forward and is in the police officers of any state in Australia; and we have process of implementing to rebalance the criminal reformed the Sentencing Advisory Council. We have justice system, to ensure that victims have a greater say ensured that our corrections system is better resourced in the rehabilitation process and to ensure that our to fix the failings of the previous government. We have streets and communities are safer. These include things rebalanced the scales to ensure that in our parole like the introduction of community corrections orders to system, as I have identified tonight, and in a number of allow community-based orders now to include jail time, particular areas, the safety and protection of the and increasing the membership of the Sentencing community is paramount. These are all indicators. Advisory Council board to include a member from a These are actions, decisions and policies being victim-run support or advocacy group and a member implemented by this government that were not who is a police officer actively engaged in law implemented over the 11 years of the previous Labor government.
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Whilst I welcome the sense of bipartisanship which has but other recommendations may be enacted through been put forward by people from the opposition on administrative processes. some aspects of public safety, if they want to go down that path and have that honest conversation, they should We on this side of the house would like to see more at least concede their fundamental failures in this area. resources put in. In particular we would like to see They did not act. This government is prepared to act more resources made available to the parole board and deliver for a stronger, safer and more prosperous itself. Of course we always would like more resources Victoria. to be made available to the court system, because even Ian Callinan described the workload of the adult parole Ms BEATTIE (Yuroke) — I rise to make a board as ‘intolerably heavy’. Even though the number contribution to the debate on the Corrections of parole releases, denials and cancellations has risen by Amendment Parole Reform Bill 2013. Members of the 35 per cent — an extraordinary number — and the opposition do not oppose this bill — in fact we support number of meetings of the detention and supervision it. Although the bill contains some difficulties we order division has increased by 44 per cent, funding has would like to see addressed, on the whole it is a good increased by only 14.5 per cent in actual terms, and bill. staff numbers have been cut by two full-time equivalent positions, so we can see that things are a bit askew. The Before I start my contribution, I pay tribute to my friend workload is getting heavier, but resources are becoming the member for Brunswick on an extraordinarily fewer and fewer. This government needs to listen to not difficult contribution for her to make to this debate. One only the call from this side of the house but also the of the heinous crimes that has been much talked about calls from victims and their families for more resources during the debate has touched her personally, so I to be made available to the parole board. admire her for the contribution she made and the manner in which she made it. She made a plea that any As I said earlier, nearly all the stakeholders called upon discussions on these matters be conducted in a sensible have talked about the board’s intolerably hard workload and cooperative manner, and I agree with her, as I am and the need for the provision of more resources. After sure do all members of the house. In these sorts of the redacted version of the Callinan report was released matters we on this side of the house are not the bad on 20 August, one measure put in place was the guys, and neither are those on the opposite site. The bad provision of an email address so that victims and their people who do bad things are the bad guys, and we families could put their concerns on the record. have a collective responsibility to try our utmost to Opposition members do not think that an email address prevent bad things from happening. However, no is a good enough mechanism for people to register their matter what we do we will never prevent all crime from views. We think that the government has shown a lack happening. No matter how many resources we put in of commitment in involving the public in the workings and no matter how many bills we pass in this house, of the adult parole board. It would have been better to crime will happen because bad people are out there, and have involved experts, victims and workers. Another they do bad things all the time. aspect of the bill is that it provides for the appointment of retired judges of superior or immediate courts of The legislation before the house has arisen from a other jurisdictions to the adult parole board, which is a review of the operation of the Adult Parole Board of good thing. It also provides for registered victims to be Victoria which was conducted by former High Court notified before the release of registered prisoners on judge, Ian Callinan, AC, a most learned and respected parole. Some victims say that they need to know if a jurist. However, we on this side of the house are a little prisoner who perpetrated a crime upon them is going to concerned that initially the review was conducted with be released, otherwise they will live in fear all the time. a degree of secrecy. The review was not conducted in Sometimes victims of heinous crimes are the most public, nor were submissions sought from members of vulnerable people in our society. They are often women the public. As I said, given the public interest in these and children and are particularly vulnerable. Through issues, we on this side of the house feel that an this legislation such people can be notified of the opportunity was missed to consider expert advice and release of a prisoner who has perpetrated a crime to hear the concerns of a wide range of people, against them. including victims and their families. On 20 August a version of Ian Callinan’s report was released, and the I turn to the provisions of the bill relating to the terms of reference for that review were made public appointment of the chairperson and deputy chairperson only at the time of the report’s release. My of the adult parole board. As I said earlier, such understanding is that some 23 recommendations were appointments can be made of retired judges of the made, most of which will require legislation to enact, Supreme Court or the County Court who have held
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office, but a couple of conditions are attached to that. In the majority of instances registered victims are, Such a judge must not have held office as a member of through this bill, provided with 14 days notice of a a board for the previous 12 months, and on appointment prisoner’s release on parole. The bill also ensures that is also appointed as chairperson. I reiterate what I said the adult parole board annual report will state how earlier in my contribution to this debate. many people were convicted of a serious offence within that reporting period while they were on parole. This side of the house supports this legislation. We hope that it goes some way to providing victims and The bill enables a Victorian Supreme Court judge, a their families with some comfort and support. County Court judge or a retired superior or intermediate However, these sorts of offences will continue to court judge from any jurisdiction within Australia to be happen, and as a society we can attempt to close the eligible for appointment to the board, either full or part gaps and continue to close the gaps. However, neither time, and one of these will be eligible for appointment opposition members nor government members are the as the chairperson or deputy chairperson. bad guys. The bad people are those who perpetrate heinous crimes upon the most vulnerable people in our This bill enshrines the community’s safety and society. I conclude by saying that this legislation is protection in legislation, making it the first priority of another step in society’s — not the Parliament’s — the adult parole board. That is to be commended. attempt to close the gaps and to lock people who have Community safety and protection should rightly take no hope of reform away from society. I commend the priority when making parole-related decisions. It is bill to the house. what the community expects and wants. I have spoken to victims of crime in my electorate of Mitcham and in Ms RYALL (Mitcham) — I rise to speak on the my community. They have related their experiences to Corrections Amendment (Parole Reform) Bill 2013. me and also told me their concerns about the parole This bill is about putting in place the first tranche of system. Their concerns relate to sentencing and to being reforms that have arisen out of former High Court judge treated with respect. They believe the system should be Ian Callinan’s review of the parole system in Victoria. weighted toward them and away from the offender. The bill amends the Corrections Act 1986. The That is what they want. As a government we have seen Callinan review was released on 20 August this year our changes to the justice system focus that weighting and identified 23 improvement measures for Victoria’s on community expectations and on what victims of adult parole system. A number of these improvements crime want and away from the offender. are able to be quickly put in place and relate to administrative and legislative changes. There are other I spoke to a man in my community whose son, measures, however, that require considerable tragically, was murdered. Any time I hear about a consideration to make sure that when we implement person being murdered, particularly a child, the thought them we get them right. A cabinet task force has been to me, as a mother, is absolutely horrendous. I do not put in place to consider those complex and legal know how I would cope with such a circumstance. I changes that are required. had a very long conversation with this man from my community. His grief was evident. It was palpable, and The main finding by the review was that the parole I could feel it; I could relate to it and identify with it. system was skewed in favour of the offender and away But I got to go home at the end of the day, whereas he from the victim, the family and the community. This was stuck with the fact that his son has been murdered government has implemented reforms to the parole and is never coming back. To even try to identify with system, and this bill builds on those reforms that have that situation is very difficult. already been made. In determining whether a person should be granted parole, have it varied, revoked or Criminal cases and tragic circumstances have been cancelled, or whether cancellation of parole should be reported in our media in recent times. They have been revoked, the bill makes community safety and in the forefront of our minds. As we have said on many protection a paramount consideration. occasions, parole is not a privilege; it is a right. I am pleased that this government has acted and continues to The bill also allows for the appointment of a full-time act in rebalancing our justice system. chairperson of the Adult Parole Board of Victoria as well as a deputy chairperson. There will be a limit of I want to touch on a point posed by those opposite. tenure on the board in terms of no more than nine years, Those opposite claimed there has been some secrecy with one exception. around the review and the report. Justice Callinan is eminently qualified. He is a former High Court judge — an esteemed individual. It is unfair — in fact I
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think it is ridiculous — to suggest that this report was College. I urge the minister to take action and fund prepared in secret. Page 3 of the report details terms of these works for the sake of the college’s 919 students, reference. The report in appendix 1 also contains a list the students’ parents, the staff and the Carrum Downs, of the people who were consulted and who submitted Skye and Sandhurst communities in general. information. There has been an open and frank assessment that has recognised the people who have Midsumma Festival contributed. There has not been anything secret. Mr NEWTON-BROWN (Prahran) — My I also want to point out that those opposite seem to adjournment matter is directed to the Minister for believe that any change or improvement has to relate to Tourism and Major Events. The action I seek is that the money. For years we heard about all the money Labor minister consider directing funds to the 2014 was spending, but we never actually heard about the Midsumma Festival to assist with its promotion as one cause being treated. Therefore what we saw was of the premier major events on Melbourne’s calendar. deterioration of services over time. Justice Callinan has The 2014 Midsumma Festival will be held from been quite clear in this review that this is a cultural 12 January and will run through to 2 February 2014. It issue. You cannot buy a change of culture. It is not really is a fantastic event, encompassing everything something that money can buy. Culture is the unique and diverse within the gay, lesbian, bisexual, assumptions and values of people. It is situations and transgender and intersex (GLBTI) community. circumstances like those we have seen that start to impact on that culture and the legislation we put in First held in 1988, Midsumma showcases the artistic place. talent of Melbourne’s queer community. The festival attracts an array of queer arts and cultural participation Business interrupted under sessional orders. through community-produced events such as arts exhibitions, cabaret and musical performances, theatre ADJOURNMENT performances, live bands, dance parties, picnics, discussion forums and sporting events to cater for queer The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The question is: and mainstream participants.
That the house now adjourns. While Midsumma Carnival has now become a mainstream event that is enjoyed by the wider Carrum Downs Secondary College community, back in 1988 Midsumma must have been a Mr PERERA (Cranbourne) — The matter I raise is groundbreaking festival for the GLBTI community. It for the attention of the Minister for Education. I call would have given the community a real sense of pride upon the minister to take action to fund the and strength in those early days. It has now grown to be much-needed modernisation needs of Carrum Downs recognised nationally and internationally as a Secondary College. Carrum Downs Secondary College prominent annual arts and cultural festival that is home to 919 students and is ably led by principal celebrates the pride and diversity of Victoria’s GLBTI Marie Walker and her very dedicated staff. The college community. is located in the Frankston municipality in my Events are held in over 85 different venues throughout electorate of Cranbourne. Carrum Downs and metropolitan Melbourne and, importantly, in regional neighbouring Skye have a number of newer housing Victoria as well. In 2013 approximately 132 000 people developments, many which have been developed since attended Midsumma Festival events, and recent the early 2000s. Many young families have moved into indications suggest that 10 per cent of attendees came the Carrum Downs-Skye-Sandhurst catchment area. from regional Victoria. It is therefore not just an inner These young families call Carrum Downs and Skye city Melbourne event; it is a broader major event, and it home, and many of them send their children to Carrum is an important event for the state of Victoria as a Downs Secondary College for their educational needs. whole.
The school is in dire need of outside undercover areas The Prahran Liberals have been involved with the where students can be out of the weather in winter and Midsumma Festival for many years. Last year I was the enlargement of the gymnasium to cope with the pleased to represent the government at various events college’s needs. There is also a need to replace the during the festival. The year 2014 will mark the 26th portable classrooms with permanent buildings. year of Midsumma Festival, and the largest event of the Unfortunately this government has not invested a red festival, Carnival, will return on 12 January. Carnival is cent over its last three budgets to rectify the situation a highlight for festival goers and is a day-long with much-needed works at Carrum Downs Secondary
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celebration which opens the festival. Over Ms GRALEY — The answer, of course, is no — 100 000 people attend Carnival day. Along with that is right. Instead, the minister has intervened and Carnival, there are a number of free and ticketed events reinstated the conveyance allowance for a school in and shows which are designed to appeal to a wide Mornington — for a school, I might add, that is located audience. just outside his electorate in an electorate held by one of his Liberal friends, who, as I mentioned, is in the The event is positioned as a cultural festival that is also chamber tonight: the member for Hastings. In the a tourism destination, and that is why I am calling on article headed ‘School bus exception not the rule’ from the Minister for Tourism and Major Events to consider the Western Port News, it is reported that: providing some funds for its promotion. In previous years the festival has attracted people from overseas as Hastings MP Neale Burgess has successfully lobbied his well. Liberal Party colleague, southern peninsula-based Minister for Education Martin Dixon, to allow Somerville children newly enrolled at Mornington secondary onto a school bus if Midsumma Festival Inc. is a non-profit association with an older sibling already uses the service. a volunteer board and a budget of around $600 000. It receives a government contribution from Arts The article is of course accompanied by a photo of the Victoria — through the Minister for the Arts — and honourable member surrounded by satisfied local from the cities of Melbourne and Yarra. It is a great day parents and students. Nice smiles all round. And why out. It is a major event in Victoria’s action-packed would they not be happy? Jenny Cuffe and her four events calendar and well worthy of consideration for a children would have loved the assistance, not to contribution given its tourism contribution to mention the special attention. It is clear that the minister Melbourne and to Victoria. I ask the minister to has seen the devastating impact his cuts are having on consider making such a contribution. schools right across the state, yet he has chosen to display favouritism. Education conveyance allowance The minister has chosen to reward the member for Ms GRALEY (Narre Warren South) — My Hastings, someone with an electorate very close to his adjournment matter is for the attention of the Minister own, while families in my own electorate are once for Education and concerns the student conveyance again left behind. The spokesman said: allowance. The action I seek is that the minister reinstate the student conveyance allowance for families The department’s school transport policy has remained in Narre Warren South — and I am very happy to see unchanged since 2012. the member for Hastings in here this evening. The There has been no specific or blanket ministerial intervention conveyance allowance had been used by local schools with regards to siblings of students who are eligible for to subsidise school buses to ensure that there were student transport. transport options available to all students, but these Such is the hypocrisy of the minister that when quizzed options are disappearing and local parents are being by the Berwick News a spokesman denied that the forced to make difficult decisions about where they can minister had intervened at all. Yet students in a Liberal send their children. Party-held seat have been exempted and can travel In an article entitled ‘Creeping school cuts’ in the without charge with their older siblings. Meanwhile Berwick News, Jenny Cuffe, a mother of four children, students at Berwick’s St Francis Xavier College and said, ‘The cost impact is an insidious creep other local schools receive no subsidised public unfortunately’. She further added, ‘I can’t see it being transport. All I am asking of the minister is for him to fixed — the alternative is that we’ll slowly lose our be fair and reinstate the transport conveyance allowance bus’. Jenny’s children attend Berwick’s St Francis for families in Narre Warren South — — Xavier College, one of the many local schools hit hard The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The by the devastating decision to cut the conveyance member’s time has expired. allowance. But has the minister or indeed anyone from the Napthine government taken action to relieve the Support Small Business Day burden to ensure my local families have access to reliable and safe transportation to and from school? Mr THOMPSON (Sandringham) — The matter I raise is for the attention of the Minister for Innovation, Mr Nardella — No. Services and Small Business. I note that the minister also holds the portfolios of tourism and major events, and employment and trade. The action I seek from the
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minister is for her to advise my constituents as to what The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The benefits they will receive as a result of registering for member’s time has expired. Support Small Business Day, which is set to take place on Saturday, 19 October 2013. East–west link
Small business is the engine room of the Australian Mr MADDEN (Essendon) — My matter tonight is economy. Over 96 per cent of businesses in Australia for the Minister for Roads. I ask that he have VicRoads are small businesses. They are a major employer. review aspects of the intersection at Mount Alexander Within the Sandringham electorate there are the Road where it meets Flemington Road and where business precincts of Hampton, Black Rock, access is needed to Elliott Avenue travelling towards Sandringham, Cheltenham, Beaumaris, Mentone and the east. Currently traffic from Mount Alexander Road Highett. In addition to the retail high street precincts of needing to travel up Elliott Avenue towards or past the those areas, many other businesses are run from home State Netball Hockey Centre needs to merge across two and are also in the light industrial sectors of the lanes of traffic and a bicycle lane to get into the far economy. Businesses that 40 years ago started in Bay left-hand lane in order to turn left up Elliott Avenue. At Road through the good work of migrants, who came to times this lane can be full of traffic coming off the Australia with their suitcases and their hopes, have been freeway. transformed into major employers in the district that export to the world. There are multiple stories of people Alternatively, traffic coming from Mount Alexander who applied their skill, ingenuity and innovation to Road can turn right into Boundary Road and travel up developing products which have serviced not just the to Racecourse Road and turn left onwards to Elliott domestic market but international markets as well. Avenue. The difficulty with this is that there is no dedicated right-hand lane from Mount Alexander Road There are a number of ingredients for a business to to make this turn. Though there is a right-hand turn succeed. One is the infrastructure that services the light, the road markings do not indicate the ability to community, and the Victorian government has turn right; they only have straight arrows in those two committed to the development of the ports of Victoria lanes up Flemington Road and the green arrow is only and the road network to facilitate the movement of available for a short time. If this option is taken up, it goods and the export of primary products, which have forces traffic to back up into Mount Alexander Road. gone through the port of Melbourne at record levels. These are all factors that underpin the strength of the Currently many parents from the Moonee Valley area Victorian economy. seek to travel up Elliott Avenue to take their children and sometimes themselves to participate in either Not many people are aware in the highways and netball or hockey in this area. My concern is that the byways of the state of the contribution to the national current traffic congestion will be exacerbated by the economy of the major export products, or indeed what government’s proposition in relation to the east–west they are. They include coal, iron ore, tourism and, most link. The Linking Melbourne Authority suggests that interestingly, tertiary education, which is one of the there will be increased traffic on these arterial roads of major export earners of the national economy. These somewhere between 10 and 15 per cent. export products drive employment. The knock-on effect of forcing traffic onto Boundary There are also the roles of industry and the major events Road or Racecourse Road is quite significant, program in this state, which are interdependent, one particularly for those travelling from the southern upon the other. The major events calendar includes the section of the Moonee Valley area. If they are accessing September AFL finals season, the Spring Racing Elliott Avenue, travelling towards the State Netball Carnival, the Australian Open Tennis Championships, Hockey Centre or even further to the east, or potentially the Melbourne International Comedy Festival and a raft onto what will be the new access points to the of other events that drive outcomes — — east–west link to the east on Elliott Avenue, my concern is that this will exacerbate the levels of traffic Honourable members interjecting. congestion and traffic safety.
Mr THOMPSON — The interjections made from Currently the merging traffic at the end of Mount the other side are that these are in broader Victoria, but Alexander Road heading towards Flemington Road, the world yachting championships are held within the including those cars coming off the freeway that want Sandringham electorate, as is the World Cup of Golf. to merge across the freeway lanes into Mount They all provide jobs and employment — — Alexander Road to get towards North Melbourne, is
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diabolical and in particular risks the safety of anyone atmosphere. The crop is harvested, processed and burnt, travelling in those cars. My request to the minister is and thus the cycle continues. that he have VicRoads review this as a matter of urgency to see what significant difficulties will be This is an excellent example of how one industry can caused by the east–west link in relation to this issue. lead to another. The investment in almond processing by Olam Orchard on Carwarp Road was the catalyst for Carwarp thermal power station this proposed development. The coalition government assisted with the establishment of Olam, and it is now Mr CRISP (Mildura) — I raise a matter for the seeking support for Balfour Beatty Investments to build attention of the Deputy Premier and Minister for this exciting engineering development. As a lapsed Regional and Rural Development. The action I seek is electrical engineer, it is pretty satisfying to see a project for him to advise what assistance the coalition of this nature; however, I diverge from the issue. Can government will offer for the development of a biomass the minister outline what the coalition government can thermal power station near Mildura. Balfour Beatty contribute towards the development of this project? Investments has announced its intention to build a substantial thermal power station on Carwarp Road. A Springvale needle exchange program power plant is being developed by a subsidiary of Balfour Beatty, which is a UK infrastructure company. Mr PAKULA (Lyndhurst) — The matter I wish to The power plant will use waste almond shells, hulls and raise tonight is for the Minister for Mental Health and grape marc for fuel. It is going to be co-located with an Minister for Community Services. It concerns the already existing almond processing plant. closure of the needle exchange program in Springvale and its winding down in Dandenong. This matter was There will be considerable benefits to the community if brought to my attention by Mr Hung Vo and Mr Tony this project is undertaken, including job creation and Berrigan, both former employees of Monash Health, ongoing economic contributions. The project will who have been personally involved in the foot patrol require around 100 employees during the construction program in Springvale. The needle exchange program period and 20 to 30 employees for its operation. It may provides tens of thousands of clean syringes every also create local training opportunities, and I will touch month, and at the same time removes used ones from on that a little bit later. The waste product that will be circulation. There have been regular foot patrols in produced by the power plant is an ash that is quite high Springvale, which have been responsible for picking up in potassium and which can be on-sold to local dirty needles that would otherwise have been left in companies. streets and parks, posing a major health risk to the people of Springvale. Workers on the ground have also Balfour Beatty Investments contacted the government been assisting those affected by drug abuse to access about 18 months ago and has been working with the health and other community services. Constituents of Deputy Premier, Regional Development Victoria and mine who have been involved in the program consider the Mildura Development Corporation to develop this it to be a great success, as does Angela Long, the mayor project. I pay tribute to everybody in this chain who has of the City of Greater Dandenong. Both Mr Vo and worked very hard on this project, in particular the Mr Berrigan have told me of their experiences as part Mildura Development Corporation and its CEO, Anne of the regular foot patrols. Users in the area have come Mansell. Without Anne’s attention to detail and to know the route they take and actively seek their persistence, this project would not have come about. assistance.
I will just give some more detail about biomass. Monash Health has downgraded the facility in Orchards grow the almonds. They are hulled and Dandenong from a primary to a part-time facility with a shelled and the kernel is then sent to market. Those couple of casual nurses, and it has closed the outreach shells sit there as a source of fuel. Grape marc is winery program in Springvale altogether. This has led to a waste — that is, stems, skins and seeds. The Deputy number of staff being made redundant, with several Speaker will well know that is the case, coming as she more expected to lose their jobs. A number of workers does from an area where grapes are processed. This is have left because of their disagreement with the dried off. Some is used for tartaric acid, but most of it is changes that are being made. The axing of the foot dried and is currently awaiting a use. The olive pips at patrols in Springvale and those outreach programs will Boundary Bend — I must save that thought — I am leave drug users and other members of the community sure will burn as well. The burning is carbon neutral. at greater risk of contracting blood-borne diseases, The trees and vines sink and store the carbon from the including HIV, due to the sharing of needles as well as
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the increased risk of exposure to dumped needles in about. I want to make sure that the students of the parks, near train stations, in streets and in alleyways. Burwood electorate get the opportunity to be inspired, as I was as a youngster. The last Burwood youth forum I ask the minister if she can look into this situation and was a great opportunity for the youth of Burwood to provide support for the needle exchange program, engage with the minister, and by all reports it was a including the foot patrols and outreach programs in roaring success. I look forward to the minister’s Springvale, in order to assist those affected by drug involvement in the next forum. abuse and to reduce the health risk to the Springvale community caused by the sharing and discarding of Lara electorate railway noise pollution used and dirty syringes. Mr EREN (Lara) — I wish to raise an urgent matter Burwood electorate youth forum for the attention of the Minister for Public Transport. The action I seek from the minister is an investigation Mr WATT (Burwood) — My adjournment matter and rectification of the issue of train noise in the Lara is for the Minister for Youth Affairs. The action I seek electorate, especially near the St Laurence Park is that he join me in hosting a forum for student Retirement Village on Station Lake Road, Lara. I know representatives from local schools in the Burwood the minister is aware of this issue because I have raised electorate. The last Burwood youth forum was attended it with him now a number of times, including tabling a by Burwood students from both independent and public petition on 14 November 2012 from concerned schools. The schools involved were Ashburton Primary residents regarding this issue. The residents of Lara, School, Ashwood College, Roberts McCubbin Primary specifically the elderly and frail residents of School, St Benedicts Primary School, St Cecilias St Laurence Park, have serious concerns in relation to Primary School — which I should note is just outside the impact of noise from passing trains that are literally my electorate, in the electorate of the member for metres from their homes. Hawthorn — St Dominics Primary School, St Michaels Parish School, Salesian College, Solway Primary Elderly residents have complained that the sound of the School and Wattle Park Primary School. It was a great engines and the track noise are excessive and getting opportunity for young people to raise issues they felt worse, not to mention that there is an overuse of were relevant to them. Topics in the last forum piercing and invasive horns, which is very annoying. traversed a diverse range of issues, such as Residents have also complained about the number of cyberbullying, public transport, education and TAFE freight trains, which vary in number and size. Some of funding and even areas of federal significance, such as them have six engines these days and are very long the Marriage Act 1961. indeed. Most of them come past at night causing disturbed sleep, which is a serious health hazard. The As I have said previously in this house, my life noise level from some trains is 92.5 decibels in one circumstances were changed by a member of the resident’s lounge room, which is totally unacceptable. Parliament of Western Australia when I was a young Their windows rattle, and they can hardly hear student. My experience has shown me that members of themselves speak as trains go past. With that said, these Parliament can inspire the students of today to become residents are aware of the importance of and need for the leaders of the tomorrow. I spoke of this experience public transportation within our community. They are in my maiden speech. I have also said a number of not being unreasonable but are asking that some times in this house that I think members of Parliament consideration be given to their quality of life and that can provide good pathways through sport and education the construction of sound barriers be given serious that will set up the youth for the future. That is why I consideration by this government. am proud of the investments we have made in the Burwood electorate, including the $10.5 million rebuild I am sure the minister gets many complaints such as of Ashwood College and the $6 million investment in these, but each must be taken into account and Ashburton Primary School, as well as the investments reviewed on its merit. We need to put this issue into in Bennettswood Reserve, the home of the Emmaus context. These residents are elderly, and some are very St Leo’s Old Collegians Football Club, known as The frail members of our community, whom we need to Animals, Emmaus Wattle Park Junior Football Club support and take care of. They are suffering from a and Deakin Cricket Club. severe reduction in their quality of life because of this government’s lack of empathy for their situation. But what I am interested in is hearing from the youth of Again, the action I seek is for the minister to investigate the Burwood electorate. I am sure the minister would and rectify the issues of train noise in Lara, especially also be interested to hear what the youth are talking
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near the residents of St Laurence Park Retirement What we can do, as I said, is put in place as a priority Village on Station Lake Road, Lara. this comprehensive strategy of action to improve our local community. The minister’s visit to my electorate Mount Waverley electorate public safety will ensure that he continues to build on the good work that has been done in his portfolio and that he takes into Mr GIDLEY (Mount Waverley) — My account the views of residents in relation to preventing adjournment matter tonight is for the Minister for crime. That is why I ask him to come to our community Crime Prevention. The action I seek is for the minister to meet with residents and me to build on that work. to visit the Mount Waverley electorate to discuss ways to further improve public safety in our local The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The community. The coalition government has made a member’s time has expired. significant impact in improving public safety across the state and in our local communities. As a candidate in Responses the 2010 state election, improving public safety was a significant aspect of my local campaign, and it remains Ms ASHER (Minister for Innovation, Services and a significant priority for our community. Small Business) — The member for Prahran spoke about the Midsumma Festival and requested funding Thus far in government the coalition has delivered for the 2014 festival being held from 12 January to $39 million for a community crime prevention 2 February 2014. The member for Prahran has been a program. We have also introduced community very strong supporter of Midsumma over many years correction orders, which allow community-based orders and has over many years successfully raised the matter to include jail time. We have increased the membership of funding for this festival. I am pleased to advise the of the Sentencing Advisory Council board to include a member for Prahran that the government, through member from a victim-run support or advocacy group Tourism Victoria’s events program, has allocated and a member who is a police officer actively engaged $10 000 to help market the Midsumma event. That is in law enforcement duties. We have also established a on top of the funding from Arts Victoria of $50 000 per Victims of Crime Consultative Committee, which is a year for the next three years. The member for Prahran permanent reference group to enable crime victims to made the point that this is a cultural festival as well as a have input into policy and to contribute to improving tourism festival, and it is appropriate for Midsumma to support services for victims. I note that the coalition has receive arts funding for the festival itself and tourism also created the victims groups small grants scheme, funding to market the festival. enabling victims groups to apply for grants to help meet the costs associated with their work in helping victims. The government provides support for events such as Midsumma because it wishes to attract interstate and As I mentioned earlier tonight, the coalition has acted to overseas visitors to Victoria. In 2013, 12 per cent of all abolish suspended sentences for serious crimes. It is attendees at Midsumma were visitors from interstate or also in the process of funding the recruitment, overseas. Sixty per cent of the interstate attendees came deployment and training of 1700 additional front-line from New South Wales, and the majority of overseas police officers. In my local community the government visitors came from the UK, North America and has undertaken a $27 million upgrade to the Glen Malaysia. Funding from Tourism Victoria will assist Waverley police academy to ensure that not only is our with the production and distribution of the program, a local economy supported also but future and existing ‘travel to Melbourne’ section on the website and a members of Victoria Police have the best training national advertising campaign. I reiterate the strong facility possible to ensure that they can provide the best advocacy of the member for Prahran over many years policing services to our local community to reduce on this matter, and I am delighted to inform him that crime and improve public safety. I also note the funding will be forthcoming. contributions the government is making in its proposals in this bill to improve our parole and corrections Similarly the member for Sandringham has been a systems. All these aspects I have mentioned are part of powerful advocate in this chamber and in his electorate a comprehensive package of reforms to ensure that as a for the cause of small business. He fully understands government we are doing everything we possibly can to the role that small businesses play, and he is well aware improve public safety on our streets and in our homes of their contributions to his own electorate and to and communities. Victoria statewide. He has asked me to outline the benefits to his constituents of participating in Support It would be nice to be able to prevent every single Small Business Day, which will be held on Saturday. I crime, but realistically we know that is not possible. urge the member for Sandringham and all members of
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Parliament to participate in Support Small Business opposed by Labor members of the committee. Day. Nevertheless, with a lot of push and shove, I got an inquiry up, and a lot of money was invested in level In an ideal world we would all make time to visit a crossing safety as a result of it. We have seen some participating business in our electorate. I know the significant benefits in terms of what appears to have member for Sandringham will be doing that. His been a considerable downturn in relation to accidents in constituents, both businesses and consumers, can and around level crossings. register via a website. The event is being sponsored by National Australia Bank. Previously I have detailed to The member also spoke about freight trains, and I am the house the very generous shopping voucher sure that he would understand the importance of the arrangements that are available on the web. I encourage port of Geelong, which is a very important employer members of Parliament to advise their constituents of for the people of Geelong. The coalition invested a lot these arrangements rather than applying for grants of money in the upgrade of rail lines to make sure that themselves. we could take more freight to the port of Geelong. We upgraded the tracks so trains could carry more weight Mr Pakula interjected. in the containers that were going to the port, and this provided greater development opportunities for the port Ms ASHER — Clearly the crouching tiger has not of Geelong and greater opportunities for employment in been listening to me in the house, because I have that area. mentioned Support Small Business Day on a number of occasions in this place, and I have urged all members to As the Deputy Speaker would appreciate, freight train participate. I urge the member for Lyndhurst to drivers also need to sound the horns on those trains to participate in his own community. make sure that motorists and pedestrians in and around level crossings are aware they are approaching and that I thank the member for Sandringham for raising this they are safe. I do not intend to interfere with drivers or issue with me. I urge him to disseminate promotional driver training. If the member for Lara would like to material to his constituents in the few days available to take the matter up with the Rail, Tram and Bus Union us, and I urge all members to support this day on and tell it that he believes its drivers are using the train Saturday. horns to excess, I invite him to do so. After all, he is a Mr MULDER (Minister for Public Transport) — great union man. I invite him to go to the Rail, Tram The member for Lara raised with me an issue relating and Bus Union and tell it that its training needs to be to train noise and in particular the horns on trains. He modified. raised concerns in relation to train drivers using train Mr Eren interjected. horns to excess and indicated that this is having an impact on a group of his constituents who live close to The DEPUTY SPEAKER — Order! The member railway lines. for Lara will cease interjecting in that manner.
I will inform the member for Lara about train horns. Mr MULDER — The member for Essendon raised They are used by train drivers, and drivers are trained in an issue with me in relation to the east–west link and their use. They usually use them when approaching Elliot Avenue. Obviously he has recently been reading level crossings. Horns are used in relation to safety for an awful lot in newspapers in relation to this issue and drivers, passengers, motorists and pedestrians. If the following the views of some so-called academics and member for Lara is suggesting that train drivers stop how they see traffic volumes flowing in and around the using the horns, then he would have to understand what east–west link, which may have also been the catalyst the impact of that would be. for the article that referred to the potential for stampeding elephants in relation to tunnel boring for the We have just gone down the pathway of investing an east–west link. enormous amount of money in grade separations and upgrades to level crossings in and around rural and I can assure the member for Essendon that traffic regional Victoria to drive down a spate of very serious modelling in relation to the east–west link was carried accidents around level crossings that occurred under the out by Veitch Lister Consulting, an organisation that is Labor government. I was on the Road Safety very well respected Australia-wide and was engaged by Committee with the member for Lara when I pushed the former government to carry out a lot of work in very strongly for an inquiry into safety around level relation to traffic modelling on various road projects. crossings. If I remember rightly, I had a great deal of We have gone to the same highly reputable company to difficulty in getting that inquiry up, because it was
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undertake this work on our behalf. The east–west link example of regional development which makes the project is going to be delivered by the Linking most of a community’s existing asset. Melbourne Authority, the CEO of which was appointed by the former government. We are now ramping up the Honourable members interjecting. resources within that organisation to deliver this very important project for the people of Melbourne and Mr RYAN — I note the humour from Labor Victoria. members on the other side of the house who would have absolutely no idea where Carwarp is let alone We know there are knockers of this project, but there whether they should celebrate a magnificent investment are not many of them out there. There is Anthony Main of this nature or even have any idea what it entails, and Cr Jolly from Yarra City Council, and of course the because the issues around regional Victoria are news to Leader of the Opposition stands alongside them all of them. As I was saying, this facility will be located cheering on the 30 protesters who represent the whole next to Olam Orchards Australia’s processing facility at of Victoria in relation to this project. The project also Carwarp. The power plant will utilise waste almond has a lot of support from those opposite. I know Cesar shells and hulls as well as other waste material from the Melhem, a member for Western Metropolitan Region region. It is good to see some use being made of waste in the Council, and the new federal Leader of the hulls. Opposition, young Billy Shorten, are great supporters of this particular project. Former Premier John Brumby The Olam almond facility has already been a great and the members for Williamstown and Footscray success for the Mildura region. This is an innovative supported the project, so there is an awful lot of support next step which continues to build on that great story. I for it. had the great pleasure, in company with the local member, the member for Mildura, of opening the The construction unions support the project because facilities of the Olam investment some six months ago they realise that as the regional rail link project starts to or thereabouts. As I recall, that project produced about wind back, 3400 construction workers will all be 40 jobs on site. It has already been a great success, and looking for work. We know where they want to go. the addition of this extra facility will only add to that They want to go to the east–west link project, but they success. The new facility will utilise approximately are not getting much support from their mates in the 215 000 tonnes of horticultural residues — primarily Labor movement. They are not getting much support in almond husks and shells — and will produce that place. I say this to the member for Essendon: it is a 35 megawatts of energy. great project. All issues in relation to Elliot Avenue have been taken into consideration in the traffic Once it is completed the project will provide substantial benefits to the community, including the creation of modelling that has been carried out. It is a project that everyone, and I would have thought particularly those another 20 to 30 full-time jobs. It will provide 100 jobs on the other side, should get behind. during the course of construction. It will also reduce power costs for power users in Mildura and the Mr RYAN (Minister for Regional and Rural surrounding communities by reducing transmission line Development) — I rise tonight to respond to a matter losses. The project is a direct result of the wider work raised with me by the member for Mildura regarding that the coalition government has been doing in relation Balfour Beatty Investments’ proposed renewable power to investment in bioenergy and biofuel projects. It is an plant in Carwarp. The member for Mildura has been industry that has huge potential for growth, and through passionate in his advocacy for this project, and Regional Development Victoria we are working closely Regional Development Victoria and Mildura with potential investors and our regional communities Development Corporation have been working very to secure these types of projects and the related supply closely with Balfour Beatty Investments over the last chains. As part of that, I have had the great pleasure of 18 months. having a number of conversations with people who are directly involved, through the company, in the It is in these circumstances that I am pleased to development of this project. We have had that announce this evening that through our $1 billion discussion over the past 12 to 18 months or so. Regional Growth Fund the Victorian coalition government will provide $3 million towards a project This is yet another example of a worthwhile project that which will see a total investment of almost the coalition government is investing in to help deliver $180 million. The power plant will be run by biomass alternative energy solutions for regional and rural fuels from throughout the region, including almond Victoria. As the house knows, we have a $100 million husks and shells and grape marc. This is a great Energy for the Regions program. We have already
ADJOURNMENT
3356 ASSEMBLY Tuesday, 15 October 2013
committed $10.5 million towards the augmentation of Affairs, are aware of those issues. I commend the Mildura’s gas supply by some 50 per cent, and we hope member for Burwood for his involvement in his that will come on stream by approximately the middle community across all demographics and certainly on of next year. This particular initiative is on top of a the commitment to involve young people in his string of other investments that we have made, community as much as he possibly can, so it is with particularly through the use of the Regional Growth great pleasure that I can tell the member for Burwood Fund, in the Riverland area. We are pleased to see that that I will go to his electorate and meet with those this is another great project to mark the progress made young people with whom he has engaged. to date. The members for Cranbourne and Narre Warren South I conclude by saying that out of a commitment of about raised matters for the Minister for Education around $320-odd million from the first $500 million of the Carrum Downs Secondary College and the transport Regional Growth Fund, something in the order of conveyance allowance respectively. 1150 projects have been developed. In total they have produced investments worth between $1.2 billion and The member for Lyndhurst raised a matter regarding $1.3 billion on the back of that $320-odd million which needle exchange programs in Springvale and we have committed. It is a great outcome, which I am Dandenong for the Minister for Mental Health. sure all Victorians celebrate — well, almost all. We hope that if the Labor opposition can warm to the task, Finally, the member for Mount Waverley raised a we will eventually get a commitment from it that it will matter for the Minister for Crime Prevention regarding keep and support the Regional Growth Fund in the the minister coming to his electorate and discussing highly unlikely event that Labor returns to government ways to further improve public safety in that area. I after 29 November next year. Hopefully we will hear certainly will pass on those issues to the respective ministers. some more about that from the opposition in due course. The SPEAKER — Order! The house is now Mr R. SMITH (Minister for Youth Affairs) — In adjourned. response to the member for Burwood, I would be happy House adjourned 10.46 p.m. to come to his electorate and talk to a youth forum there. There are many occasions where I am able to go out and talk to various youth forums and indeed to youth councils and youth advisory groups right across this state. In fact just last week I was with the member for Gembrook in his electorate where we spoke to a number of representatives from schools and touched on the very important issue of mental health for young people and the youth suicide issues that are prevalent in the Casey-Cardinia area.
It was great to be able to talk to those people, along with a representative from the local headspace organisation, and talk about those very important issues that are affecting those communities. I previously have met the group of young people that the member for Burwood has convened for me, and I have to say that I was quite impressed with the wide-ranging topics that group was able to put to me. The topics included how Parliament operates, how government works and the programs that the government is running in the youth portfolio, along with the many other policies and positions that this government has across the range of portfolios.
The member for Burwood has a very keen interest in the views of young people and is very keen on making sure that the government and I, as Minister for Youth