22 Oct 1998 Legislative Assembly 2681

THURSDAY, 22 OCTOBER 1998 PAPER MINISTERIAL PAPER The following paper was tabled— Mr SPEAKER (Hon. R. K. Hollis, Redcliffe) Minister for Primary Industries (Mr Palaszczuk)— read prayers and took the chair at 9.30 a.m. Report of the Supply Management Working Group on the Extensions of COMMONWEALTH PARLIAMENTARY Supply Management Arrangements to the ASSOCIATION Entire Queensland Dairy Industry. Mr SPEAKER: Order! I wish to remind honourable members that the annual meeting MINISTERIAL STATEMENT of the Queensland branch of the CPA will be held in this Chamber at 1 p.m. Overseas Visit MEMBERS' DAILY TRAVELLING Hon. P. D. BEATTIE (Brisbane Central— ALLOWANCE CLAIMS ALP) (Premier) (9.34 a.m.), by leave: Last week, I undertook a four-day visit to three key Mr SPEAKER: Honourable members, I areas of the People's Republic of China—a lay upon the table of the House the annual country which I regard as one of report of the daily travelling allowance claims Queensland's, if not Australia's, most by members of the Legislative Assembly for significant emerging trading partners. The 1997-98. purpose of the visit was to strengthen existing ties with China and develop new relationships PETITIONS as we move towards the next millennium, The Clerk announced the receipt of the particularly as much of the rest of Asia following petitions— continues to suffer the effects of a serious economic downturn. As the Treasurer informed this House earlier this week, even the Asian Nagoorin; Monto Road economic dynamo, Japan, is forecasting From Mrs Liz Cunningham (288 negative to zero economic growth in the short petitioners) requesting the House to give the term. highest priority to bitumen sealing the section Queensland's ties with China are of road from Nagoorin to the bitumen sealed therefore even more important now than they section on the northern end of Monto Road. were when we established sister State relations with Shanghai nine years ago. Russell Island, Shire Council Indeed, one of the key reasons for the visit was to sign the fifth memorandum of From Mr Hegarty (26 petitioners) understanding with the Mayor of Shanghai, Mr requesting the Minister for Communications Xu Kuangdi. and Information and Minister for Local Government, Planning, Regional and Rural The importance of this relationship with Communities to conduct a poll for an Shanghai cannot be overstated. Queensland expression of opinion for the formation of a is indeed privileged to be in such a close new Russell Island Shire Council as a matter of relationship with what is regarded as one of urgency. the growth regions of Asia, not just China. The visit to China also provided me with the opportunity to continue to spread the message Redcliffe, Police Beat to our friends in Asia that Queensland is a From Mr Hollis (3,814 petitioners) tolerant, multicultural society that welcomes requesting the House to act on the advice of and encourages foreign investors and foreign the CJC to the Queensland Police Service and tourists. initiate a trial police beat project for the whole Two other key objectives of the visit were of the City of Redcliffe. achieved in the south-western municipality of Chongqing. Honourable members may be Brookfield State School, Preschool aware that this municipality, which was the From Dr Watson (318 petitioners) capital of China during the Second World War, requesting the House to erect a preschool at is the most populous in the world, with 30 Brookfield State School that meets the million people. It was here that I was able to Government's current regulations return about 100 ancient Chinese coins to their rightful owners. The coins, some more than Petitions received. 1,300 years old, were found 20 years ago in 2682 Ministerial Statement 22 Oct 1998 an urn in the abandoned Chinese goldminers' I am pleased to be able to advise the township of Maytown in far-north Queensland. House today that Cabinet this week gave Now, they have been returned to the Chinese approval for me to give such endorsement on and will be displayed in the Three Gorges Queensland's behalf. Accordingly, I have Museum, again strengthening the cultural ties written to the Prime Minister advising him that between Queensland and China. the strategy has Queensland's support, and I Let me turn now to the other major table a copy of that letter. So Queensland is achievement of the visit to Chongqing. Some committed to contributing its fair share to the honourable members, such as the member for national effort to cut emissions, but it is a Logan, would be aware that there has been commitment made with a careful eye on an international competition to design the protecting Queensland jobs and industries. In master plan for the reconstruction of the my letter, I have reminded the Prime Minister ancient city heart of Chongqing. As a measure that Queensland has a high dependence on of the scope of this project, honourable energy-intensive export industries and the members may be interested to know that the State's international competitiveness must be estimated cost of this project is $4 billion. The protected. I have advised the Prime Minister international competition has resulted in six that my Government requires that the consortia being short-listed for the project, Queensland implementation plan be based on including one from Queensland. During my certain principles. They are the full exploration visit to Chongqing, I was able to meet of no-regrets options and market-based members of the Queensland consortium and solutions, protection of employment levels in to assist them in presenting their credentials to Queensland, maintenance of international the Chongqing officials. I make no apology for competitiveness for Queensland's industry, standing up for Queensland companies and I and continuing progress on the introduction of wish the consortium, and other Queensland competition reform in the energy sector. companies trying to do business in China, all As well, my Government believes that the best and offer the assistance of the three other issues must be addressed for the officers in our Trade and Investment Office in national strategy to be successfully Shanghai. implemented. We must develop a domestic As the scope of this visit was quite emissions trading system and we must do it extensive—and much more extensive than quickly. This would be a valuable tool to help what I have dealt with in this short minimise the total national cost in reducing statement—I seek leave to table a more emissions. Queensland also believes that comprehensive report with support material for there must be quick action to develop a the benefit of honourable members. I will table comprehensive system for forecasting two copies. greenhouse gas emission levels to help Governments and industry in their policy Leave granted. development. Finally, turning the strategy into reality will MINISTERIAL STATEMENT require substantial resources. While the strategy provides a cost-effective mechanism National Greenhouse Strategy for achieving reductions, Queensland Hon. P. D. BEATTIE (Brisbane Central— considers it essential that the Commonwealth ALP) (Premier) (9.37 a.m.), by leave: The assist in funding programs that will be Commonwealth has committed Australia to implemented cooperatively. Without playing a part in the global effort to reduce Commonwealth funding, Queensland would greenhouse gas emissions. At an international find it difficult to meet these challenges. As I forum in Kyoto in 1997, Australia signed the have said, Queensland is committed to playing framework convention on climate change. The its part in the national effort, but we are just as so-called Kyoto agreement sets targets for committed to protecting the interests of this reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Under State. I table a copy of that letter to the Prime the agreement, Australia is committed to limit Minister for the information of members. growth in emissions to 8% above 1990 levels by 2008-2012. The Commonwealth's primary tool for meeting this commitment is a national greenhouse strategy, which was finalised in MINISTERIAL STATEMENT June this year. The Prime Minister has asked Treasurer's Annual Statement every State and Territory to endorse this Hon. D. J. HAMILL (Ipswich—ALP) strategy. (Treasurer) (9.40 a.m.), by leave: As the House 22 Oct 1998 Ministerial Statement 2683 will be aware, the Treasurer's Annual area. On 1 October, Robert Mason was Statement is my report to Parliament on the appointed as a commissioner of the financial results for the State Budget sector for Queensland Corrective Services Commission the financial year 1997-98, audited as board following the elevation of respected necessary by the Auditor-General. As such, it businessman Sir Bruce Watson to chairperson brings together details of transactions in the and the appointment of Stan Macionis as Consolidated Fund and Trust and Special deputy chair in July. Mr Mason brings many Funds, including outlays provided for in the years of management experience at BHP Coal Appropriation Acts for the year. An appendix to and MIM Holdings and is well regarded in the the statement sets out the unforeseen field of organisational development. expenditure requirements for which I have also appointed businessman Mr supplementary Supply is sought in the Stephen Lonie as the new chairperson of Appropriation Bills 1998. Queensland Corrections. Mr Lonie was The Consolidated Fund outcome is in line previously the deputy chairperson of the with the 1997-98 Budget forecast. The final Q Corr board and was elevated following the surplus in cash terms of $16.34m compares resignation of Des Knight. Mr Lonie is with the Budget estimate of $13.63m. managing partner for KPMG Queensland, an Underlying this result was an increase in actual expert management consultant and adviser, receipts compared with Budget estimates of and has served on a number of boards 7.3%, allowing a corresponding increase in including KPMG Australia and the Pacific Film spending on services and infrastructure for the and Television Commission board. Another Queensland community. Both receipts and addition to the Q Corr board as director is expenditure in 1997-98 totalled $15.3 billion. barrister-at-law, Ms Dianne Linnane. Compared with the previous year's receipts The chair of the Queensland Community and expenditure, the 1997-98 results Corrections board also needed to be filled represent an increase of 10.1% in each case. following the departure of Des Sturgess. The more significant components of the QCCB's deputy president, barrister-at-law and increase in Consolidated Fund receipts were former police officer Frank Lippett, has been increased Commonwealth payments, gaming appointed to fill this vacancy. I have no doubt machine tax, stamp duties, royalties, interest, that Mr Lippett's extensive experience as a borrowings and a return of equity payments as Queensland and Federal police officer, a a consequence of the electricity industry Crown prosecutor and his position as president restructure. Offsetting these gains to a partial of the Brisbane Community Corrections board extent were decreased collections from tax mean he is ideally suited to the position. equivalent payments, payments from Indeed, the very fact that my predecessor, the Queensland Rail relating to coal haulage, and Honourable Russell Cooper, appointed Mr repayments of capital advances and Lippett to his role as deputy president of the unrequited transfers from Trust and Special board acknowledges his ability to do the job. I Funds. will be making announcements in the future In summary, the 1997-98 year closed with about the replacements for the deputy a slightly better than expected cash result, a president position vacated by Mr Lippett and surplus of $16m. More importantly, revenue the deputy chairman position on the Q Corr growth continued and, as well as supporting board, which are currently vacant. an improved surplus, allowed for better provision of services and infrastructure with MINISTERIAL STATEMENT increased actual outlays of over 10%. I table the Treasurer's Annual Statement 1997-98 Literacy and Numeracy and the attached Statement of Unforeseen Hon. D. M. WELLS (Murrumba—ALP) Expenditure to be Appropriated 1997-98. I (Minister for Education) (9.45 a.m.), by leave: commend these statements to the House. On 26 August 1998 I tabled the 1995-96 report on literacy and numeracy in Queensland MINISTERIAL STATEMENT by the Queensland School Curriculum Council. Honourable members will recall that that report Board Appointments identified a dramatic differential between the Hon. T. A. BARTON (Waterford—ALP) performance of boys and girls in respect of (Minister for Police and Corrective Services) literacy. I said that the underperformance of (9.42 a.m.), by leave: I wish to advise the boys should have set alarm bells ringing for House of several appointments that I have the previous Government, which not only failed recently made to boards within my portfolio to table the documents but did not even make 2684 Ministerial Statement 22 Oct 1998 them available to the board of management of needs to be refocused, and the Education the Education Department. budget needs to be reconfigured to target this I now table the council's latest report, critical problem. I will advise the House of my entitled Statewide performance of students in department's response to this report in the aspects of literacy and numeracy in near future. Queensland 1995, 1996 and 1997. The report indicates improvements in performances in all MINISTERIAL STATEMENT aspects of literacy for all 1997 Year 6 students as compared to the performances of the 1996 Historic Bricks, West End Public Housing and 1995 students. There is an improvement Project in performance in the measurement and Hon. R. E. SCHWARTEN (Rockhampton— space aspects of the numeracy test. There is ALP) (Minister for Public Works and Minister for also an overall improvement in the Housing) (9.48 a.m.), by leave: Last Friday, the performance of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Courier-Mail carried a story quoting a Criminal Islander students in some aspects of the tests Justice Commission spokesman saying that as compared to the 1996 results. there appeared to be no basis for suspecting However, the report confirms the findings any misconduct in the disposal of historic in the 1995-96 report on literacy and numeracy bricks originally meant to be used in a Housing presented to the previous Minister—a report, I Department project at West End. I am pleased might add, to which he did not seem to pay to inform the House that yesterday, almost a any particular attention. It confirms the week after the Courier-Mail story, I received differences in performance between boys and official advice from the CJC to that effect. This girls, and it confirms the extreme differences in advice should put an end to the Opposition's performance between Aboriginal and Torres efforts to imply that I as Minister for Public Strait Islander students and non-Aboriginal Works and Housing was somehow to blame or and Torres Strait Islander students. It identifies had overseen or approved a transaction that significant disparities between the performance was less than honest. The Opposition took this of urban and rural children. Interestingly, the approach despite the fact that the bricks were schools west of the Great Dividing Range did advertised for sale and sold in early 1997 over worst under the previous Government's a period spanning the time in office of two Leading Schools policy. Aboriginal and Torres Liberal Ministers. Strait Islander students continue to perform Honourable members would be aware substantially below all other students in all that the issue of the missing bricks first arose aspects of literacy and numeracy tested. The publicly when the member for Mooloolah Government will implement strategies scored an own-goal by asking questions at the designed to improve the outcomes for these Estimates hearings that only embarrassed his students and enhance their ability to operate own party and two former Liberal Ministers. Not successfully in the 21st century. even tougher gun laws could prevent the Throughout the State, boys performed member for Mooloolah from shooting himself below girls in all aspects of the literacy test. In in both feet and wounding two of his reading and viewing, the performance of the colleagues in the process. boys was markedly below that of girls, and Last week's Courier-Mail article carried when one looks at the results for writing, the comments attributed to the Liberal Leader, gap is even wider. The results for numeracy tell who was the Minister for Public Works and a different story. The results for both groups Housing at the time the bricks were sold. His are similar except for the questions on space advice to me was that I should instruct my where boys performed better than girls. department to find a way to get them back. Despite this, the boys' performance in That is the sort of hands-off, do-nothing literacy lags behind that of girls. This attitude that caused this problem in the first underperformance of boys in literacy is place. But it is typical of the approach of the dramatic, and requires a dramatic response. former Minister. It is no wonder, coincidentally, The approximately $5m annual increase in that when he held this portfolio, in his literacy funding that is a feature of this Labor department he was nick-named "Brick". And Budget will help. However, even more than they still refer to him that way. that needs to be done. There needs to be I became aware of the sale of the bricks public debate about this issue. The minds of only a few weeks before the Estimates the entire education community need to be hearings and had been trying to secure their engaged so that we can work together towards return. Let me say that I did not take the collective solutions. The education system Liberal Leader's advice. I did not leave it to my 22 Oct 1998 Ministerial Statement 2685 department. Yesterday, after receiving the CJC Islander Policy and Minister for Women's letter, I rang the person who bought the bricks. Policy and Minister for Fair Trading) Today, I am pleased to announce that we (9.52 a.m.), by leave: I would like to draw agreed that my department would buy enough honourable members' attention to the activities of the bricks to enable them to be incorporated of a Cairns-based business which I believe is into the West End public housing project, as doing considerable damage to the interstate promised to the Brisbane City Council and and overseas reputation of Cairns, and local residents. Queensland, as a tourist destination. I have never publicly mentioned the name The Cairns Office of Fair Trading has of the person concerned, believing that he and regularly received complaints about Jolly Frog, his family were being dragged unfairly into the a car rental business. The company has had a spotlight by Opposition point scoring. I do not poor complaint history over the past five years intend to deviate from that practice. But I do and at times the office has received up to 10 call on the member for Mooloolah and the telephone calls per month about this trader. Liberal Leader to make a full and public Over the past year complaints have increased. apology for the distress that their cheap and Many of the complaints have been resolved in misguided stunt has caused to the person the aggrieved client's favour, but only after concerned and his family. extensive work by Office of Fair Trading staff. Mr LAMING: I rise to a point of order. Jolly Frog Car & Bike Rentals Pty Ltd— That comment is untrue and offensive and I ACN 055 235 320—has its registered office ask it to be withdrawn. and principal place of business at 147 Mr SPEAKER: Order! The member has Sheridan Street, Cairns. I understand the Jolly asked for those words to be withdrawn. Frog operates from a number of sites in Mr SCHWARTEN: If he wants me to Cairns. An affiliated business, North withdraw my call for him to make an apology, I Queensland Car and Bus Rentals, operates withdraw it. The reason members are sitting on from the same address and also attracts the Opposition side is that they never admit it considerable complaints. Both businesses are when they are wrong. They have distressed managed by Michael David Kennedy. Mr this family beyond belief with their cheap and Kennedy is understood to also have childish stunt that backfired and embarrassed businesses on the Gold Coast, including them. another Jolly Frog car rental outlet. Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Minister will Significantly, the 1989-90 annual report of return to his statement. the then Consumer Affairs Bureau reported Mr SCHWARTEN: In its response, the the following under the heading "Traders to CJC suggested that—— Avoid in Cairns"— Mr LAMING: I rise to a point of order. Mr "Like all cities, Cairns has received its Speaker, I ask for that comment to be share of unethical traders and two such withdrawn. That is not the reason that I businesses were named during the year. brought up the matter. Michael Kennedy and Kathy Jones, who carried on business as Cairns Car Buying Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no need to and (later) as Cairns Motor Market of debate the issue. The Minister will withdraw. Spence Street, Cairns were involved in Mr SCHWARTEN: I will withdraw. The the sale of unroadworthy motor vehicles member should put away his gun. and the supplying of false information to In its response, the CJC has suggested finance companies." that the Department of Public Works examine Earlier in 1987 Mr Kennedy had surrendered its storage and record keeping his motor vehicle dealers licence after inquiries practices—systems that were in place under were made into his conduct. Mr Kennedy is no the previous Government that allowed this stranger to suspect business practices. I also mistake to occur. I have ordered my understand the Cairns police have received in department to do just that to ensure this excess of 100 complaints about Jolly Frog's incident will not be repeated. operations. Jolly Frog, North Queensland Car and Bus Rentals and Mr Kennedy are also well MINISTERIAL STATEMENT known to the Department of Transport, which has successfully prosecuted them for having Jolly Frog Car & Bike Rentals Pty Ltd unregistered vehicles and for numberplate Hon. J. C. SPENCE (Mount Gravatt— offences. The department has also pursued ALP) (Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait them over dishonoured cheques. 2686 Ministerial Statement 22 Oct 1998

Jolly Frog was the subject of an article in the possession of the hirer. The second imprint "The Fixer" column of the Sunday Mail. The is to cover hire fees. Upon the return of the reported case was of a British tourist vehicle in an undamaged condition, one overcharged $750 on his credit card when he imprint should then be destroyed. But this is used the Gold Coast Jolly Frog and who had not always done, although consumers are to wait eight months for a refund which came assured it has been or will be. Then a debit is only after much pressure was brought to bear made under some pretence which advantages by the young man's relatives and through the cash position of Jolly Frog even if only newspaper exposure. temporarily. Complaints to the Office of Fair Trading It is not unreasonable to suspect that this about the Jolly Frog's activities include company relies on slippage in that some allegations of— consumers may not notice the extra charges failing to return deposits; or, if they do, will not do anything about them overcharging hirers' credit cards without because of the cost, inconvenience, perhaps consumers' knowledge in relation to even embarrassment at being ripped off and vehicle damage allegedly sustained to the general difficulties of dealing with problems hired vehicles; from a distance, particularly if they live in another country. As with many consumer supplying vehicles of a mechanical matters formal complaints to fair trading standard that the hirers considered agencies are usually only the tip of the iceberg unsatisfactory or unroadworthy; and as many people do not lodge written vehicles breaking down and substitutes complaints. With the Jolly Frog the "tip" is having to be provided. substantial and a very large iceberg of I understand there is also evidence that in one consumer disadvantage is likely to be below case the trader hired out a motorcycle which the surface. was unregistered at the time. Honourable members will share my These complaints go way beyond the concern that visitors to this State, particularly complaints received against any other car overseas visitors, are those most vulnerable rental companies. One foreign consumer when dealing with the Jolly Frog. Complaints claims that he was charged $50 to clean the have come to Fair Trading from the United car because it had become dirty when it was Kingdom, Europe, the United States and rained on. Consumers are strung out for South America, as well as from other months waiting for the resolution of invalid Australian States and Territories. Many debits to their credit cards. I understand that overseas tourists apparently do not become allegations have also been made by aware their credit card accounts have been consumers of being abused by the trader's debited until weeks later after they have staff. returned home. This often leaves them with little means of effective redress and a very The company adroitly walks the fine line sour view of their Queensland visit. No doubt between legality and illegality. It has a they spread the word to their friends and common practice of debiting credit cards for family. amounts of $300 to $500 without justification. If challenged by the consumer, there is then a It is reasonable to suspect that foreign long drawn-out process which costs the tourists are seen as easy prey because consumer considerable time, inconvenience language difficulties, travel commitments and and expensive telephone calls and faxes. Files the cost of seeking redress work against them are "misplaced" or the relevant company enforcing their consumer rights. Many local representative is hard to find. residents in Cairns already know of the Jolly If the Office of Fair Trading becomes Frog's appalling reputation. Visitors are not so involved, the time of the office's staff is taken lucky and unsuspectingly hire vehicles from the company. up by the petty, lame delaying tactics by Jolly Frog's management to avoid paying the As honourable members would refund. In some cases belatedly the refund is appreciate, in areas such as Cairns and the made after the Jolly Frog's bank account has Gold Coast where tourism is a large industry, benefited from the extra money at the the practices of traders such as the Jolly Frog consumer's expense. The company usually can have a serious adverse effect on that takes two credit card imprints and has the industry and the image of the State overall. If consumer sign them before the hire vehicle is we are to maintain and enhance our delivered. The first imprint is a deposit to cover reputation as a safe and enjoyable place for any form of damage to the vehicle while it is in tourists, it is essential that unscrupulous 22 Oct 1998 Ministerial Statement 2687 traders are weeded out and unsatisfactory than Queensland's agricultural production of business practices rectified. Their cavalier $5.67 billion. behaviour threatens the reputation of an To ensure safety and maintain customer industry employing 125,000 Queenslanders. confidence, these companies are bringing Moreover, the bad reputation of the Jolly Frog producers and processors along the length of may discourage tourists from using other small the supply chain into production relationships. rental companies which are well run and are These relationships are set out in protocols striving to build their businesses by offering determined by retailers. The protocols are competitive services to consumers. designed to allay consumers' fears about The Office of Fair Trading will continue to pesticide residues, adverse environmental investigate complaints against the Jolly Frog impacts from food production and ethical and will consider prosecution where there is issues. For farmers, the protocols determine to evidence of breaches of consumer protection a large extent what is grown and when, and laws. Meanwhile, I am warning all consumers what pesticides and herbicides are used. to be very wary of any dealings with the Jolly These retailers' protocols are setting minimum Frog in Cairns or the Gold Coast or with any worldwide operating standards for suppliers. business run by Mr Michael Kennedy. The In addition, large international business practices of this operator are supermarket chains are looking to guarantee completely unacceptable. In particular, their supply year round and are establishing consumers should ensure that all credit card their sources of supply from growing areas slips are either completed by them or, if not around the globe. Any one of these giant used, destroyed to prevent unauthorised retailers will have supply chains established in debits being made. They should never leave a many countries to source safe, quality foods all blank credit card slip with the business. They year round. Supply chains in Queensland will should also ensure that the vehicle is compete with supply chains in South America, thoroughly inspected with the company's Africa, Eastern Europe, North America and any representative before and after renting so that other potential source of supply. Supply chains the hirer cannot be stuck later with a bogus for different retailers will also compete with claim for damage. each other. We berate the cane toad as a pest in our I would like to again emphasise that these environment, but the Jolly Frog is an changes in the international marketplace have obnoxious creature which plagues our tourism been driven by the strict standards adopted by industry. the retailers. They are intended to provide a guarantee for consumers that the foods they are buying are safe and deliver on the other MINISTERIAL STATEMENT issues that are important to them. Unless Primary Producers; Supply Chains Queensland primary producers identify and Hon. H. PALASZCZUK (Inala—ALP) access the potential of these supply chains, (Minister for Primary Industries) (10 a.m.), by they will find it increasingly difficult to improve leave: Primary producers are facing a their long-term position. revolution in the way they will be required to do Small producers may find it difficult to business in future. The core of the revolution is access these markets on their own. To a phenomenon known as supply chains. address this problem, the Department of Supply chains are an emerging global trend, Primary Industries is going to help small and Queensland primary producers need to be producers to get into the supply chains, and aware of how it will impact on them. Around thus create a more secure future. The aim is to the world fundamental changes are occurring help producers take advantage of supply in the way primary industry based products are chains, rather than end up as victims. DPI will marketed. This affects how business will be do this by focusing on building the capacity of done in the future. rural Queensland to develop the knowledge, The key to the matter is the supply chain, capabilities, innovation and leadership to make driven by international retailers that seek to the transition to this new way of doing control primary products from the paddock to business. Our programs to achieve this the supermarket shelf and then to the plate. objective include Building Rural Leaders, The implications for Queensland producers, FutureProfit, rural market development and the processors, transport, export and retail are Queensland Centre for Climate Application. huge as many of these major global retailers DPI is also providing a range of have annual turnovers of between $50 billion information, intelligence and analysis services and $100 billion. This is 10 to 20 times larger to support farmers in making informed 2688 Members' Ethics and Parliamentary Privileges Committee 22 Oct 1998 strategic decisions in their business. This position that I am in now, making this includes risk management, export and market announcement for our producers. development. Of special relevance to the Producers interested in more information department's support for farmers is a series of about supply chains can contact the DPI call publications on value chain analysis, an centre on 13 25 23. Forging and strengthening important new management tool for producers supply chain linkages is a key priority for the and processors. I will just inform the House Department of Primary Industries. It is just that the department has produced four another way that we are using DPI's expertise publications. The first one is on beef, the to allow our producers to build a more second one is on sugar, the third one is on prosperous and secure future, based on wheat and the fourth one is on horticulture. competing in a global marketplace. These are available to all honourable members. Value chains describe the chain or MEMBERS' ETHICS AND PARLIAMENTARY sequence of costs and activities from paddock PRIVILEGES COMMITTEE to plate. This has been developed by DPI's Citizen's Right of Reply specialist Business Strategy Unit and has the Hon. T. M. MACKENROTH (Chatsworth— potential to help primary producers and ALP) (Minister for Communication and marketeers unlock higher product prices and Information and Minister for Local higher profits. The value chain analysis series Government, Planning, Regional and Rural currently includes reports on sugar, wheat, Communities) (10.08 a.m.), by leave, without beef and horticulture, as I have pointed out to notice: I move— the House already. These very detailed reports document, for the first time—and this is very "(1) That this House notes Report important—the series of steps and processes No. 23 of the Members' Ethnics from the farm gate to the end consumer in and Parliamentary Privileges Japan and China. Most importantly of all for Commi ttee and the recommendation of the planning, these booklets provide the costs and margins associated with each link in that chain. committee that a citizen's right of reply be incorporated into Beef provides an ideal example. The DPI Hansard; and analysis shows that Queensland cattle (2) That the House adopt the producers receive only 8% of the final retail committee's recommendation." price in Japan for grass fed and grain fed beef. The processors receive 4% and the retailer in Motion agreed to. Japan receives a massive 69% for grass fed Response by Mr Mark Le Grand to Remarks beef and 46% for grain fed beef. Obviously, made by the Member for Sandgate on 4 August these figures send a powerful message to 1998 1 producers: they need to secure a greater part In a statement made to the Legislative of the income in the supply chain. Assembly on 4 August 1998, the Member for The report provides producers with Sandgate, Mr Gordon Nuttall MLA, referred to me by name and made comments which, given options. The most obvious way for the their context, have adversely affected my Australian beef industry to gain a greater share reputation. of the final market value is to shorten the value chain—in layman's language, cut out the Mr Nuttall implied that the CJC and I were attempting to "stop an inquiry" by the middle men. This could be achieved by Parliamentary Criminal Justice Commissioner. producing consumer-ready portions of meat in Mr Nuttall's claim relates to a letter dated 24 supermarket-ready packages for export to July 1998 from the solicitors representing the Japan or by establishing distribution systems in CJC and me to the Parliamentary Japan through joint ventures or alliances. The Commissioner. This letter was written in same applies to sugar, wheat, fruit and response to the Parliamentary Commissioner's vegetables. request for submissions in writing to her Producers interested in more information "concerning the manner in which such an investigation should be conducted". She about supply chains—— promised to give careful consideration to such Opposition members interjected. submissions. Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is too much I deny that I am participating in any attempt to audible conversation. derail the Parliamentary Commissioner's efforts to resolve the allegations made by Mr Allan Mr PALASZCZUK: Some of those Grice MLA. Quite the contrary, the submission backbenchers opposite would love to be in the responded to a request for assistance and was 22 Oct 1998 Privilege 2689

received by the Parliamentary Commissioner in PRIVILEGE that spirit. Ms M. O'Donnell The difficulty is that if experienced Senior Counsel advice is correct, the Parliamentary Mr DAVIDSON (Noosa—LP) (10.11 a.m.): Commissioner is about to embark on a hearing I rise on a matter of privilege. After the debate process which lacks statutory authority and is yesterday in this place on the report of invalid. I have nothing to fear from any further Estimates Committee D, members will now be inquiry; indeed I welcome the opportunity to aware of the issue surrounding the clear my name. However, an invalid inquiry appointment of Ms Margaret O'Donnell to the would further nobody's interests. position of Director-General of the Department 1 Statement agreed to by Mr Le Grand and of Equity and Fair Trading. In the House on 4 the Members' Ethics and Parliamentary August 1998, in response to a question Privileges Committee in accordance with the without notice directed to the Premier by the Resolution of the Queensland Legislative Leader of the Opposition regarding Assembly on 18 October 1995, reintroduced on 11 October 1996. appointments to senior executive positions within the Public Service, the Premier stated— "... those positions will be filled on the PERSONAL EXPLANATION basis of merit. People who had previously Minister for Police and Corrective Services been appointed to the position of director- Mr FELDMAN (Caboolture—ONP) (Leader general on the basis of merit were eligible of the One Nation Party) (10.10 a.m.), by for reappointment, which is exactly how it leave: Yesterday the Minister for Police and is being done. If they had previously been Corrective Services implied that I had in some appointed to one of those positions, they way interfered or attempted to interfere with a will be entitled to be reappointed; they police operation on 9 October. I seek to have gone through a merit selection remind the Minister of the facts. process and they were appointed on merit. It is that simple. Those who do not The police operation in relation to this fit within that category will have their matter commenced somewhere between 9 positions advertised. A number of those p.m. and 10 p.m. on 9 October, as a direct positions are now in the process of being result of my phone call to the Longreach police after I received relevant information. In the advertised, such as that for Public Works and Housing. There is a string of them. early afternoon of 9 October, when the That is the clear position." Minister's office received my fax, no such police operation existed. I caused the That being the clear position, I was operation after my phone call to the surprised at the appointment of Ms O'Donnell Longreach police. The Minister further misled to the position of director-general, which was this House yesterday when he said— gazetted in Queensland Government Gazette "I provided a standard No. 118 on 14 August 1998—— acknowledgment that was prepared, Mr SPEAKER: Order! The member for signed by me and sent to the member." Noosa—— I table a copy of the reply that was forwarded Mr DAVIDSON: I now table it for the to me, which I received on 14 October. Unless information of honourable members. the Minister has changed his name to Ross Musgrove, he certainly did not prepare it or Mr SPEAKER: Order! I am not sure that sign it, because that is whose name and this is a matter of privilege. signature appears thereon. Mr DAVIDSON: It is a misleading of the I again thank God for his intervention and House by the Premier, Mr Speaker. for the sincerity and integrity of the member for It should be noted that Ms O'Donnell has Gregory, who made the safety of the boys never been appointed to a director-general's paramount and put it above politics. He position previously. This appointment was returned my call, subsequent to a similar fax I made, despite the fact that the position was sent to him, and in the strictest of confidence never advertised and a formal selection set about the retrieval of two youths I was process was not conducted. Given the concerned about and in the process previous employment history of Ms O'Donnell, discovered the third. I trust that the Minister will it would have been necessary to adhere to this cover himself with ashes and sackcloth and process to be in compliance with the Premier's prostrate himself before this House in abject appointment process outlined in this House, as apology for such an indiscretion. I mentioned previously. 2690 Private Members' Statements 22 Oct 1998

Based on this apparent breach of the "That this House supports the publicly stated appointment process, I inquired privatisation of the Queensland TAB." of the Minister for Fair Trading during the time allocated to non-Government members at the Estimates Committee D hearing whether the PRIVATE MEMBERS' STATEMENTS appointment of Ms O'Donnell and the process Disney Theme Park used for her selection had the support of the Hon. R. E. BORBIDGE (Surfers Premier. The Minister informed the committee: Paradise—NPA) (Leader of the Opposition) "Absolutely". Given that the Minister advised (10.15 a.m.): Following negotiations initiated the committee that the Premier supported the by my Government in 1997, Queensland was appointment of Ms O'Donnell despite non- able to secure from Victoria a bid for a project compliance with the process that he himself known as Starland, which represented the outlined, it is clear that the Premier has misled opportunity for Queensland to secure the first this House. I therefore ask that this matter be Disney theme park of the new millennium. brought to the attention of the Members' Those negotiations were continuing, having Ethics and Parliamentary Privileges been commenced by the previous Minister for Committee. Emergency Services and Minister for Sport, Mr Veivers. In January of this year, I held PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE discussions in confidence with Mr Dick Nunis, the CEO of Disney. I am concerned that the Reports opportunity for Queensland to secure this Mr ROBERTS (Nudgee—ALP) major investment project has been bungled, (10.13 a.m.): I lay upon the table of the House and bungled badly, by an appalling lack of Public Works Committee reports Nos 49 and confidentiality by the current Premier. 50 on its inquiries into the upgrading of the Townsville Correctional Centre and the The facts are these: Disney was in construction of a hot fire training facility by the discussions, through its associates in Starland, Queensland Fire and Rescue Authority. with the Victorian Premier, Jeff Kennett. Under my Government we were able to transfer the The committee considers the additions to site of those negotiations to the State of the Townsville Correctional Centre as Queensland. In what was an appalling breach necessary and suitable for the purpose for of security, what was a closely-guarded secret which they will be constructed. The committee under the coalition became the talk of the does make a recommendation to the town under Labor. It could not keep it secret. It Queensland Corrective Services Commission breached confidentiality and showed regarding the processes it uses to determine enormous disrespect for the sensitivities of the its future needs for additional prison beds. Disney organisation. The committee considers that the hot fire The Courier-Mail carried a report on 5 training facility will be a positive investment in October, as follows— the future safety of Queenslanders. It recommends that the Queensland Fire and "A month later, Mr Beattie wrote to Rescue Authority formalise and finalise its the Disney organisation seeking a clear negotiations on key aspects of the project indication by the end of September as to before proceeding with any other components whether the Starland project had sufficient of the project. support"—— I place on record my thanks to all those Mr ELDER: Mr Speaker, I rise to a point who assisted the committee with these of order. If the former Premier and now Leader inquiries, particularly those who made of the Opposition wanted it kept confidential, submissions, appeared before the committee he should never have leaked it to the Courier- and assisted with inspections. I also thank my Mail. fellow committee members and thank the Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no point of committee staff for their research and order. The Leader of the Opposition's time has assistance. I commend the reports to the expired. House. Mr BORBIDGE: Mr Speaker, I rise under Standing Orders 119 and 120. The Deputy NOTICE OF MOTION Premier would be aware that I alerted the Premier that the Courier-Mail was making Privatisation of TAB inquiries. The Premier also knew of my Mr HEALY (Toowoomba North—NPA) absolute confidentiality and the fact that I had (10.15 a.m.): I give notice that I will move— refused to comment to the Courier-Mail. It is 22 Oct 1998 Private Members' Statements 2691 the Premier who leaked to the Courier-Mail Ms BOYLE: I am drawing to the attention and jeopardised a project that could have of the House—despite interference—a very generated over $1 billion in investment in this important matter, that is, the wearing of school State. uniforms by children at the direction of their Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no point of principals and their P & C associations. order. The Honourable Leader of the The Ombudsman's decision has caused Opposition will resume his seat. I call the some considerable concern in Cairns, honourable member for Cairns. particularly to the principal of the Cairns State High School, Mr Bernie MacKenzie. Even the editorial of the Cairns Post has pointed out this School Uniforms morning the important and good reasons why Ms BOYLE (Cairns—ALP) (10.17 a.m.): I schoolchildren should be strongly encouraged bring to the attention of the House the to wear uniforms. The main one, of course, is Ombudsman's decision that principals are their recognition and their protection and, acting unlawfully by making students wear therefore, their safety and security within uniforms. This decision—— school grounds. Mr Gibbs: Tell them the rorts you got into When the school policies do recognise over it. You're a sleaze-bag. diverse needs in different areas of this State Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Minister for and when those policies also are negotiated Tourism! between the principal and the P & C, then I would like publicly to state for Mr MacKenzie Mr BORBIDGE: Mr Speaker, I rise to a and other principals at high schools in Cairns point of order. The comments made by the and in primary schools that I will strongly Minister are unparliamentary, offensive and I support their endeavours and those of the ask that they be withdrawn. P & C to ensure that their school students are Mr SPEAKER: Order! Do you withdraw appropriately dressed. those words, Minister? Mr GIBBS: I do not know what he found Queensland Livestock and Meat Authority offensive: the fact that I referred to him as a sleaze-bag or that the whole thing was a rort. Hon. T. R. COOPER (Crows Nest—NPA) Which one? (10.21 a.m.): On Tuesday, the Minister for Primary Industries informed members that he Mr SPEAKER: Order! The remarks are was appointing an administrator to the unparliamentary. I ask you to withdraw, QLMA—another example of the Beattie Minister. administration's penchant for purging Mr BORBIDGE: I rise to a point of order, competent and respected boards and Mr Speaker. What about the new replacing them with Labor lackeys. The parliamentary standards promised by the Minister pointed to the coalition for leaving the member for Brisbane Central? QLMA in debt to the tune of $1.8m. On Honourable members interjected. Wednesday, he was forced to retract that and put forward alternative figures of a negative Mr SPEAKER: Order! The House will equity of $212,000 and an operating loss for come to order. 1997-98 of $1.845m. The Minister should now Mr GIBBS: The Leader of the Opposition clarify his position to the Parliament, and he deliberately misled the Parliament in what he has an obligation to do so. was saying, but I withdraw. The Minister has talked of Government's Mr BORBIDGE: I rise to a point of order, responsibility to contribute to meat safety and Mr Speaker. I have not deliberately misled the hygiene. That is a refreshing backflip from Parliament. I find those remarks offensive and Labor's past policies, when Ed Casey and his I ask that they be withdrawn. Where are the Cabinet colleagues saddled butchers with full parliamentary standards that were promised by fee for service and plundered the $500,000 the member for Brisbane Central? annual Government contribution to the QLMA, and that is where the QLMA's financial Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Minister will problems stem from. withdraw those words that the Leader of the Opposition finds offensive. The meat industry already fears that they will again face fee hikes to cover the cost of Mr GIBBS: I withdraw. operating the QLMA, just like they did when Mr SPEAKER: Order! I again call the Labor last held office. Their industry has a member for Cairns. reputation for safety and hygiene standards. 2692 Private Members' Statements 22 Oct 1998

That achievement has come at a considerable where she once prepared for her award- cost, as butchers have had to refit their shops winning eisteddfod performances. while staving off competition from the big three Emma Cheers joins a host of home-grown supermarkets. The coalition has been criticised talent on the national and international dance for failing to approve a new fee schedule which stage, including renowned choreographer would have increased butchers' fees by up to Natalie Weir and former Australian Ballet $200. If that is a crime against small business, member Janette Mulligan and, of course, then we stand guilty. Robyn Croft. Saturday night at the Townsville The worst ramification of this extreme Civic Theatre will be a proud occasion for decision is the impact it will have on the Emma Cheers and her parents, Judy and confidence of the meat industry and its Brian, and her mentor Robyn Croft. It will also reputation for exceptional standards; and that be a very proud occasion for all the people of is the issue. If the Minister is serious about Townsville. food safety, as he claims, he should reverse the decision to sack the QLMA board and maintain the coalition's commitment for Cystic Fibrosis Association Government to fund its rightful obligations to Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM (Gladstone—IND) the QLMA. (10.24 a.m.): I would like to take this opportunity to recognise the work of the Cystic Fibrosis Association in Queensland. It provides Miss E. Cheers vital support and information to sufferers of Mr REYNOLDS (Townsville—ALP) cystic fibrosis as well as their carers. Cystic (10.22 a.m.): Townsville has a proud record of Fibrosis Week is from 16 to 24 October. cultural and community development. This is Although Red Rose Day was last Friday, I have exemplified across the city's range of continued to wear this ribbon, because one endeavours in the performing and visual arts. I day slips past too quickly. would like to inform the House today that The association had a family picnic on Townsville ballerina Emma Cheers has come Saturday at Wynnum, and it is proposing to home as the youngest member of the have a ball this Saturday at the Convention Queensland Ballet. The 17-year-old will make Centre. Over 500 families in Queensland are her stage debut at the Townsville Civic Theatre affected by cystic fibrosis, with family support on Saturday amongst a cast of 22 in the workers Jenny Corrie and Orma Ringberg romantic 1841 Paris Opera ballet Giselle, giving essential assistance, support and which is touring north Queensland. emotional support to those sufferers. I have Emma Cheers, who has spent two years sufferers in my electorate, and I know that the in Melbourne at the highly acclaimed Christine parents really value some relief. They have to Walsh Dance Centre, will be watched on stage do physiotherapy every day, particularly by her parents, Judy and Brian, who have postural drainage. I know that parents in my recently moved to Adelaide. The couple has electorate have sought relief, say, one day travelled from Adelaide for the show and will every now and again as a respite from physio be joined by Emma Cheers' former mentor to be able to just have a rest. and Royal Ballet of London dancer Robyn I commend this week to the House. I Croft in the crowd. Robyn Croft, who grew up in congratulate the Cystic Fibrosis Association on Townsville, is internationally acclaimed in her the work that it does and place on record our own right. Ms Croft said yesterday, "I am proud thoughts and our concerns for all those of her", as her brightest student posed for the families affected by cystic fibrosis. camera. Ms Croft said, "She has been dedicated throughout. She would get up at 6 a.m. for lessons and that's why she is where Tournament of Minds Competition she is today." The little dancer, who stands at Mr WILSON (Ferny Grove—ALP) 162 centimetres but weighs in at just 46 (10.25 a.m.): In two hours, seven courageous kilograms, is one of the 11 village girls in the and talented young students from Patricks ballet. Road State School will board a plane to Emma Cheers gained a berth in the Canberra to do battle on Saturday against the exclusive Queensland Ballet line-up after best young brains in Australia in the national auditions in Brisbane more than a month ago. Tournament of Minds competition. This And now, under the watchful eye of ballet guru tremendous team of primary school students Francois Klaus, Emma is making her Saraya Veltmeyer, Ashton Guy, Toby professional stage debut in her home city. Thompson, Ross Chandler, Luke Muller, Tom Yesterday, she returned to the dressing rooms Muller and Anthony Bull from one of the great 22 Oct 1998 Questions Without Notice 2693 primary schools in my electorate has recently Youth Allowance won the State Tournament of Minds Mr REEVES (Mansfield—ALP) competition at the University of Queensland in (10.28 a.m.): I want to talk about a young the maths/engineering section. man, 18 years of age, named Brett from my The competition is hailed by schools— electorate. Brett left school less than a year Government and non-Government—as the top ago and has worked most of the time since he contest for Queensland's brightest students. A left school. Unfortunately, Brett was retrenched record 651 schools in Queensland entered the about eight weeks ago. At the time he was competition this year, culminating in primary living with, and paying board to, his father. His and secondary State finals in the categories of mother has left Queensland and he is unsure social sciences, language, literature and of her whereabouts. Things had become very maths/engineering. The competition, widely tense at home. His father, who is also known as the "Battle of the Brains" provides supporting a number of younger children, an avenue for gifted and talented students. could not afford to support Brett. Brett had to The Patricks Road team is one of six leave home. It was becoming too hostile at representing Queensland this coming home and, secondly, his father could not Saturday. continue to support him. At the State finals, teams were locked in a Brett's girlfriend is expecting a baby. room for three hours while they had to solve a Brett's predicament is that he is 18, trying to challenging task using their thinking skills and do the right thing and support his girlfriend, but some props. The Patricks Road team first won he has been put in an impossible situation. their regional contest and then took the State They are paying $200 per fortnight for a rented title after beating the winning schools from the caravan but are receiving only $240 per other 12 regions. In the maths/engineering fortnight from his girlfriend's youth allowance. section, the long problem involved relocating Brett's car has run out of registration, but inhabitants of an imaginary planet, Squash, to he cannot afford to renew it, because owing to a suitable parallel universe by travelling unjust criteria of the coalition Federal through a worm hole. Government's Youth Allowance he is not Congratulations to all the parents in the eligible to receive it. He cannot go home. His school community who, in three short weeks, father is not prepared to support him. He is have raised approximately $4,000 to cover the trying to do the right thing, support his girlfriend travel and related costs of the students, one and find a job. Recently, he rode a pushbike parent and one teacher going to Canberra. from Eight Mile Plains to Browns Plains only to This is a mighty effort from the school of 500 be told when he got there that the employer students. Congratulations also go to the did not want him because the company could school principal, Mr Bill Haworth, and not afford him. He and his girlfriend are community liaison officer Anne Cameron. I am expected to live on $40 a fortnight. The sure that all members here join with me in strange thing is that once the baby is born, he wishing all our young Queensland is eligible for assistance; but while she needs a representatives the best for the "Battle of the lot of support during her pregnancy, they can Brains" this Saturday. have only $20 per week for food. The way that genuine young people are being treated by this callous Federal Government is shameful. Bus Shelter, Ipswich State High School The unfortunate part about Brett's story is that he is not alone. It is about time that those Mr PAFF (Ipswich West—ONP) opposite convinced their Federal colleagues to (10.27 a.m.): My sincere sympathy goes out to have a bit of heart. all those parents and students who were Mr SPEAKER: Order! The time for private caught in the massive storm of 13 October at the Ipswich State High School while waiting for members' statements has expired. the school buses. Fortunately, there was no serious injury sustained during the course of QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE the storm. MIGATE I assure the students and parents of the Mr SANTORO (10.30 a.m.): I refer the Ipswich State High School that, with the Minister for Employment, Training and assistance of the Minister for Education and Industrial Relations to a brief dated 13 August the Minister for Public Works, I will do 1998 to his director-general from a director of everything possible to provide shelter to them TAFE Queensland. In that brief the director in the future. recommends that the proposal that the Mount 2694 Questions Without Notice 22 Oct 1998

Isa Institute of TAFE divest itself of question. As the member knows, my engineering training should not be supported Government will more than double the number because that would disadvantage clients in of Queensland Rail apprentices taken on in Mount Isa, reduce the level of choice available 1999 from 70 to 150. This huge increase is to individuals, communities and industries in part of the Government's determination to the north-west and western regions, not create jobs, to give people skills that will earn support the initiatives expressed by the them a living for life and to look after regional Government's 10-point plan for TAFE Queensland. Our determination to put jobs Queensland and result in adverse criticism of back into regional Queensland is TAFE Queensland, DETIR and the demonstrated by the fact that more than half Government. I ask: does the Minister support of the initial intake for 1999 will be outside the that recommendation from one of his most Brisbane/Ipswich area. That is our commitment senior departmental and TAFE officers and the to regional Queensland. As a Government, we reasons behind it? If he does, when will he tell are doing everything we can to create jobs his ministerial colleague the member for Mount throughout Queensland. I congratulate the Isa and chairman of MIGATE to lay off Mount Transport Minister, Steve Bredhauer, on that Isa TAFE? initiative. Mr BRADDY: Mount Isa residents are very In addition to those apprenticeships, the fortunate. They have several opportunities in Government will be creating about 24,500 relation to vocational education and training, apprenticeships, traineeships and job particularly in the engineering field, at both placements over four years to give hope to TAFE and MIGATE. Several proposals have young and unemployed people throughout the come from MIGATE and TAFE as to how this State. Paul Braddy and I addressed a number particular training should be undertaken. They of key business people yesterday outlining our do not always agree with each other. Since I latest strategy, the advertising campaign, to received that brief, there have been very work in partnership with business to drive those fruitful discussions between the people who apprenticeships across the State. The operate MIGATE and officers of my advertisements for those first 99 positions in department in relation to TAFE. A very good QR have been appearing in Queensland working relationship is being worked out. I am newspapers this month. We are already doing going to Mount Isa on Saturday prior to the it. Regional Queensland will have 52 of those regional Cabinet in Mount Isa on Monday. I will apprenticeships. Let me release some of the be attending a function with MIGATE. I will details of where they will be. All honourable also be talking with departmental officers. I members will be interested. Toowoomba will believe that the relationship is working very be having four of them. Roma will have two; well. I believe we have now arrived at a good Maryborough, seven; Rockhampton, 15; solution that will guarantee better opportunities Townsville, nine; Gladstone, four; Mackay, two; for trainees and apprentices in that field and and Cloncurry, two. We could not get a bigger will guarantee TAFE's prominent position in the regional mix than that. That is only the conduct of that training. The training people in beginning. Other areas will be included as time my department are very happy with the goes by. outcome and the negotiations. The apprenticeships will include trades Mr Santoro: What about the TAFE such as electronics, plumbing, carpentry, people, are they happy? vehicle building and engineering. It is a broad Mr BRADDY: The TAFE people in Mount range of apprenticeships. It overcomes some Isa are also very happy in relation to the of the problems that we saw last year when a outcome that has been achieved. north Queensland company had to import boilermakers from South Korea to do some work. We never want to see that happen Employment; Queensland Rail again. That is what those apprenticeships are all about. The increased intake of an extra 80 Mr SULLIVAN: I refer the Premier to the ridiculous allegations from the Opposition that apprenticeships will provide job opportunities his Government is not doing enough to create for young Queenslanders who might have jobs, that it has ignored rural and regional thought that they had no chance of gaining a Queensland and that it has a poor record in skill or a job. The important thing is that the relation to Queensland Rail. I ask: what is the successful applicants will have a skill for life Government doing to create jobs in QR? and the ability to gain employment in the private sector or start their own business. We Mr BEATTIE: I thank the honourable do not particularly care if, at the end of the member for Chermside for that very intelligent day, they leave QR and set up on their own. 22 Oct 1998 Questions Without Notice 2695

They can stay with QR if they want, but if they department. The mere fact that the Opposition go out on their own, they already have a skill appears to have some earlier information does for life. not mean that that was the determination. I will Successful applicants will start their check the information in relation to any apprenticeships in February. It is expected that expenditure and will give that information to the remaining 51 positions will be filled in mid the Leader of the Opposition. 1999. That is a clear indication of our commitment to giving young people in this Call Centre Strategy State apprenticeships, a hope for employment, skills for life and skills to give Mr PURCELL: I ask the Minister for State them meaningful employment. Development and Minister for Trade: can he advise of any practical results of the implementation of the Government's call MIGATE centre strategy? Mr BORBIDGE: I ask the Minister for Mr ELDER: I thank the member for his Employment, Training and Industrial Relations: question. The Government has identified call why is his Government preparing to give centres as an area of strategic advantage for MIGATE, a private training organisation this State over other States. That is because headed by his colleague Minister McGrady, a we have a ready and available work force that monopoly on apprenticeship training within his is multiskilled and multilingual—which, I must electorate of Mount Isa? say, is the result of an initiative of the former Mr BRADDY: I have already answered the Goss Government. The former Goss question. I repeat: a proposal in relation to the Government's comprehensive foreign allocation of training positions that was put by language studies program is now starting to MIGATE has not been accepted by me or by bear fruit by bringing forward young people my department. Since that proposal was put with language skills so that they can get good forward, it has been balanced by information jobs, and good wage-paying jobs. received by me in relation to the position that I can inform the House that a call centre TAFE should occupy in that area. There has employing 300 people is currently being set up been a very suitable and relevant at Robina Quays on the Gold Coast and will be apportionment in relation to this matter. As fully operational by the end of this year. members opposite should recall from their Mr Horan: The Premier said 400 last days in Government, the fact that proposals night—who's right? are merely put up does not mean they are accepted. That proposal certainly has not Mr ELDER: It was the State Government, been accepted. It has been amicably worked in conjunction with Telstra, that attracted out. TAFE Mount Isa will continue to operate in Stellar to Queensland. Call centres grow. Does that area and continue to play a prominent the member understand the concept of how role in relation to training call centres build their businesses and grow? The member's problem is that he does not understand the detail. MIGATE Over the past few months Stellar, in Mr BORBIDGE: I again refer the Minister conjunction with Telstra, has been working with for Employment, Training and Industrial my officers to find a suitable location. That Relations to MIGATE, the company of which location is now Robina Quays, where it will the Minister for Mines and Energy is chairman establish the Asia-Pacific region call centre for and of which his son is an employee. I ask: its operations. That is the type of business that why is an estimated $600,000 of taxpayers' we are looking for. At the moment we are money going to be spent to upgrade the talking to US companies, European-based apprentice workshops at Mount Isa Mines companies and other Asian companies about when state of the art workshops already exist establishing their call centres in Queensland. at the Mount Isa Institute of TAFE and are The main reason is that, above Sydney and capable of providing that training? Melbourne, we have a good, steady work force Mr BRADDY: On the information I have at and one that is not in transit, as occurs in other present, I do not accept that that amount of States. These call centres need only a money is being spent as the Leader of the telephone line. So we can look at offering sites Opposition says. I will check the information in within regional Queensland that the relation to the matter. As I said, proposals that companies find attractive. were put forward originally in relation to that Mr Connor: No, they don't. You don't matter were not accepted by me or by my know what you're talking about. 2696 Questions Without Notice 22 Oct 1998

Mr ELDER: I say to the member for happened under the previous Government Nerang that we should encourage these types was nothing short of a disgrace. It was a of jobs to Queensland. The revolution in vicious attack on the skilling of the work force telecommunications and technology means in this State. The former Government pulled that such jobs can come on line in this State funds out of TAFE and the Federal coalition for our young people. Government did exactly the same thing. What I say also to the House that significant has this Government done? It has moved to interest has been expressed by a raft of restore the importance of TAFE in training companies. I am currently negotiating with young people—and people of all ages—not some major companies regarding the only to give them the skills to find employment establishment of call centres in Queensland. In but also to give them some hope and a future. the next few weeks a large, international I make it very clear to the House that the banking institution will be looking at priority with which we regard TAFE will establishing a call centre in Queensland. I continue. It does not matter whether we are believe that we will have a positive talking about Mount Isa, Brisbane, Cairns, announcement in relation to that major Townsville or anywhere else; our commitment international group in the very near future. to TAFE will remain. The joint venture between Telstra and Opposition members interjected. Excel, that is Stellar, will have those jobs up Mr SPEAKER: Order! and running. Interviews are being conducted now, which means jobs for Gold Mr BEATTIE: There they go, seeking to Coasters—300 jobs coming on stream—by trivialise the importance of TAFE. That is Christmas. typical. When the coalition was in Government, the Opposition sought to destroy—— Mr BORBIDGE: I rise to a point of order. MIGATE The question related to when the Premier Dr WATSON: I refer the Premier to knew about the conflict of interest by the MIGATE, the company of which his Minister for Minister for Mines and Energy. Mines and Energy is the chairman, and its Mr SPEAKER: There is no point of order. moves to undermine Mount Isa TAFE which, in turn, threatens the jobs of Mount Isa TAFE Mr BEATTIE: I have indicated already trade teachers, and I ask: has the Premier's that I do not regard the basis of the question Minister McGrady disclosed to him the depth as having any credibility. There is the clear of his apparent conflict of interest in this answer. matter? Does the Premier sanction the moves The Government has restored the that he has made which have put these TAFE importance of TAFE. We have done it in a way jobs at risk? that will give young people some hope. The Mr BEATTIE: I am always happy to Opposition had a disgraceful record in TAFE. answer questions from the Leader of the When it was in office, it gutted TAFE. It took Liberal Party, who is usually such a charming away a lot of people's hopes of getting soul. I am surprised—— training. That is what it did. Mr Schwarten: The "Brick". Mr Borbidge: What about Dalby? Mr BEATTIE: I do not necessarily share Mr BEATTIE: What about Dalby? Dalby is that view. I am a little bit more compassionate an important centre in this State. Let me tell and understanding. However, I can members opposite that we are more understand where that view came from. committed to the bush than they were. We know where Dalby is. Mr Gibbs: Glen Lazarus would be very insulted. A Government member: Doubled the courses in Dalby. Mr BEATTIE: He would be. The usual goodwill and charm that we are used to from Mr BEATTIE: I thank the member. We the Leader of the Liberal Party has not been doubled the courses in Dalby. How about that! reflected in his question. I thought that the I am absolutely delighted that the Leader of Minister had indicated clearly that there were the Opposition mentioned Dalby. no jobs at risk. Under those circumstances, the Mr Littleproud: That was done before you point made in relation to the member for got there. Mount Isa simply has no foundation. Mr BEATTIE: I like to hear the This Government has restored the member—— importance of TAFE in the training field. What Time expired. 22 Oct 1998 Privilege 2697

Disney Theme Park commitment. The next crucial sentence Mr MULHERIN: I refer the Premier to the explains the situation even better. It states— claims by the Leader of the Opposition in the "Therefore, unless your government House this morning that the Queensland is willing to commit to this type of Government had not fully pursued a Disney funding"— project for Queensland, and I ask: is there any that is, the $850m— truth in these claims? "we don't believe that probabilities warrant Mr BEATTIE: I thought that the Leader of further time and energy being spent by the Opposition's performance this morning to either of us." try to score some cheap political points in regard to the Disney project was nothing short This Government handled this matter of disgraceful. These projects are important appropriately. We took it down the road to its projects. When the previous Government was full extent to see whether this project was in office, it supported the Disney project. When possible. At the end of the day, we had we came to office, so did we. In fact, I asked Starland wanting to continue to dip into public Wayne Goss and the then acting head of funds to survive. If the Leader of the Treasury to represent this State in the United Opposition wants to come into this place and States in sensitive negotiations to try to make be an advocate for Starland, he should come the Disney project a reality. in and tell the truth. What he was advocating was throwing more taxpayers' money down the Why has it not gone ahead? I will tell drain. My Government does not work that way. members why. I have a letter from Walt Disney Attractions dated 17 September 1998 that explains exactly why it has not gone ahead. Power Purchase Agreements This matter should not be the basis of cheap Mr HORAN: I ask the Minister for Mines stunts in this place. The letter states— and Energy: will he give a 100% guarantee to "The support of Queensland's private operators proposing to build new power Premier, Peter Beattie, and Prime Minister stations in Queensland that his Government Jeff Howard has been very much will not enter into any power purchase appreciated." agreements with any operators? It goes on to state— Mr McGRADY: A similar question was "After absorbing the information that asked of me yesterday and the point I tried to you presented and revisiting our make then is that we will talk to anybody at all attendance and investment assumptions, in this State, or indeed in this nation, who is we still strongly believe that the interested in doing deals for this State that will economics of doing a Disney theme park be in the interests of the people whom we project in Queensland are difficult. For a represent. My door is open all of the time, as Disney project to be feasible"—— are the doors of the other Ministers. Day after day I receive numerous people who want to Mr Borbidge interjected. discuss some of the proposals that they have. Mr BEATTIE: The Leader of the I will continue to talk and listen to those Opposition should just be patient. The letter people. continues— Any decisions of the Queensland "... it would require direct government Government will be made in the interests of support"— the people of this State. As I said the other and members should listen to this— day, it is about time that the Opposition tried to assist the Queensland economy, rather than "including land, infrastructure, tax carrying on with this absolute nonsense. incentives and capital dollars for construction costs of the theme park of at Interruption. least US $300 million to $500 million, most likely toward the upper end of this PRIVILEGE range." Minister for Mines and Energy, Alleged Do members know what that means in Conflict of Interest Australian dollars? An amount of $850m! Hon. R. E. BORBIDGE (Surfers Mr Gibbs: Unsecured. Paradise—NPA) (Leader of the Opposition) Mr BEATTIE: The Minister is quite right. (10.51 a.m.): I rise on a matter of privilege Not only was it unsecured; the previous suddenly arising. In an answer to a question Premier was prepared to give an open-ended this morning, the Minister for Employment has 2698 Questions Without Notice 22 Oct 1998 disputed but acknowledged that large sums of prisons are less likely to reoffend if they lead money may be directed to a private company stable lives. That is pretty logical and sensible, of which a Minister in this Government is the and Government needs to play a role to chair. encourage it. We all know that a vital element Mr Fouras: Where's the privilege? of leading a stable life is having a job. However, naturally many employers are Mr BORBIDGE: I am coming to that. He dubious about employing people with criminal disputes the amount of $600,000, but he says records. I understand that of every 100 clients that at a later time he will inform me of the of the Second Chance Foundation, only three extent of that funding. Clearly this is a very reoffend. This compares with the statistic that significant conflict of interest in regard to the nearly half of all people who leave prison Minister for Mines and Energy. reoffend. Therefore, one can see the value of Mr Speaker, I ask you to consider whether this scheme. this matter should be referred to the Members' The previous State Government promised Ethics and Parliamentary Privileges funding that never materialised and then the Committee, bearing in mind that the Leader of support that had been provided by the the Labor Party prevented members of my Commonwealth Government was withdrawn. Government from voting on land matters when Both the previous State Government and the they held leasehold titles. Federal Government withdrew funding from a Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Leader of the very worthy cause. The foundation was then Opposition is now debating the issue. I will faced with having to close its doors and turn confer with the Clerk on the matter and give an away people who wanted to improve answer to this in the Parliament. themselves. The program was defunded by Mr BEATTIE: I rise on a point of order. the coalition at State and Federal levels. There are two matters in relation to this issue. The foundation wrote to my office saying One is that the Minister concerned has that it would have to close unless the Labor declared it in his pecuniary interest. Secondly, Government could help. My Government is he receives no personal benefit. Under those committed to doing everything it can to circumstances, the matter of privilege has no prevent crime and to provide jobs for as many credibility. Queenslanders as possible. Therefore, the Honourable members interjected. State Government has given the Second Chance Foundation a second chance with a Mr SPEAKER: Order! The debate across grant of $150,000 for this financial year so that the Chamber will cease. it can keep operating. In so many of these areas, amounts of QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE money like that can make a real difference. My Second Chance Foundation Government is determined to make a real difference when it comes to jobs and fighting Mrs NITA CUNNINGHAM: I refer the the causes of crime. This is the sort of Premier to an organisation called the Second sensible, constructive and pragmatic approach Chance Foundation, which plays a major role that my Government will have to tackling crime in the rehabilitation of offenders who have and creating jobs. served their time in prison and are looking for work so that they can start new lives, and I ask: does the Government have a role to play Prison Privatisation and Corporatisation in this area of jobs and crime prevention? Mr PAFF: I ask the Minister for Police and Mr BEATTIE: I thank the honourable Corrective Services: does the Government member for Bundaberg for her interest in this support the privatisation and corporatisation of matter. For the record, I note her commitment prisons in Queensland where the profit motive to group training schemes in Bundaberg, is obviously responsible for undermanning, which will play a significant role in training thereby threatening the safety of officers, the young people, particularly under the schemes public at large and the prisoners themselves? that have been announced by the Minister for Mr BARTON: In the run-up to the recent Employment over the last few days. election, the Labor Party clearly stated that we The Second Chance Foundation plays a did not support the privatisation of prisons. vital role in the overall crime prevention Proposals were put forward by the previous program by trying to find jobs for people with Government, the current Opposition, outlining criminal records. It tries to give them a second its intention to sell two prisons, Borallon—which chance in life. People who are released from I believe is in the electorate of the member for 22 Oct 1998 Questions Without Notice 2699

Ipswich West—which was to be sold to its China, I witnessed the signing of the fifth operators, and the Arthur Gorrie facility, which memorandum of understanding with was to be sold to its private operators. The Shanghai, our sister State. In fact, I signed objective was to use the funding that was that agreement with Mayor Xu. That obtained from those sales for the massive agreement provides for the continuation and prison expansion that is currently under way. furthering of cultural, economic and The former Government had its own proposals educational ties between the two States. I for that expansion and we have continued attended also the signing of a number of them. Clearly, those two prisons will be under agreements between a number of contract to the Queensland Corrective Services Queensland universities and local Chinese Commission for some time yet and I have no universities for the furthering of student intention of interfering with that arrangement. exchanges and educational opportunities. Private-sector operators of the two prisons are By its very nature, the agreement involved and that is a contractual provides enormous employment opportunities arrangement. for Queenslanders. Coincidentally, next year The previous Government also intended will be the 10th anniversary of that agreement. to fund a replacement Rockhampton Shanghai offers Queensland significant trade correctional facility using private sector funds, opportunities and is one of our largest mineral so that prison would also have been owned by export markets. Queensland exporters have the private sector. In the run-up to the election, also taken the huge step in moving into fresh this Government decided that we would not food exports—a move that I am sure would be agree with that. We have our own alternative supported by both sides of the House. funding mechanisms for the expansion. We Furthering these and other new export will provide alternative Government funded opportunities can mean only one thing, and mechanisms for the construction of the that is jobs, jobs and jobs. That is what my Rockhampton correctional facility. Government is about. That is what I promised In the long term, I think that people are Queensland when we came to power and that aware that the 10-year review is currently is what we are delivering. taking place, as required under legislation that, China is the largest emerging consumer as a result of the Kennedy inquiry and the society in the world. They are buyers and Kennedy reforms, was introduced 10 years traders. We must take full advantage of the ago by the honourable member for Crows Nest opportunities that China offers to create long- when he was the Minister responsible for term jobs for Queenslanders. During my trip, I prisons. That 10-year review is currently under was also able to explore investment and way. I expect to have a report from Mr Frank business opportunities in other provinces, in Peach, who is conducting the review, early in particular the Province of Chongqing, a city of the new year. We will then determine our over 30.4 million people, which I understand is future attitudes to the structures of the prison the largest city in the world. Several system in this State. No doubt we will also Queensland companies are currently involved consider how the structures fit with the in a bidding process for the right to design the corporatisation issue. Currently, the State- new city heart. We have an excellent chance owned prisons are run by a GOC, Queensland of securing that contract. It means that billions Corrections. Whether that continues will be of dollars in construction and investment determined as a result of decisions taken once opportunities will flow from this project alone. It I receive the report from the Peach review. is an opportunity for skills utilisation in urban planning, architecture, engineering and so on. Premier's Overseas Visit My visit highlighted the vast untapped potential for Queenslanders to move into Mr MICKEL: I refer the Honourable specialist skilled areas. China, and Asia as a Premier to his recent trip to China and whole, represent the biggest opportunity for congratulate him on his support for the future investment markets for Queensland. consortia bidding for the Chongqing project, That is one of the reasons why I gave it and I ask: could the Premier outline the job priority. The Government to Government opportunities for Queensland that may stem relations, particularly in the meeting in from this visit? Chongqing, enabled those Queensland Mr BEATTIE: I thank the honourable businesses to be introduced directly to the member for Logan for this question. I relevant Chinese authorities who will be acknowledge publicly his support for trade making appropriate considerations in relation opportunities, because like this Government to those contracts. While it is a fair and he knows that trade means jobs. While in transparent process, in my view that assisted 2700 Questions Without Notice 22 Oct 1998 those Queensland companies to better believes available funding should be applied, understand what was required and to be in a and the whole issue of funding for victims of better position to win those contracts. That is crime is in the hands of my colleague the the sort of approach that my Government will Attorney-General and Minister for Justice, who have. We will take every opportunity we can to has put in place a most significant increase in pick up trade opportunities because, I say the funding available for victims of crime in this again, trade means jobs. year's Budget.

Victims of Crime Association One Nation Party, Effect on Asian Relations Mr RAPPOLT: I ask the Minister for Police Ms BOYLE: I refer the Treasurer to his and Corrective Services: can he explain why recent ministerial visit to Asia with the the Labor Government has deemed it Queensland Treasury Corporation, and I ask: necessary to allocate $65,000 to prisoner is there still concern in the region over the support groups in the far north while it is influence of Pauline Hanson's One Nation unable to find any more than a miserly $1.40 Party on Australian economic and foreign per case for the victims of crime? Does the policy, and is this damaging Queensland's Minister have any plans to address the fact relations in the region? that the Victims of Crime Association is Mr HAMILL: On the first morning I was in hopelessly underfunded and able to provide Singapore I had a media interview with CNBC, only the most basic and inadequate level of a major television network in Asia with some service in Cairns and Townsville? 40 million viewers. One of the first questions I Mr BARTON: I should indicate at the was asked concerned the influence of Pauline beginning that the funding that is given to Hanson's One Nation Party. Similar issues community groups, prisoner support groups were raised with me in Hong Kong. This was and other groups working in conjunction with shortly after the Federal election. I was able to Corrective Services is in fact not determined by report that the One Nation Party had done the Minister. The structures in Queensland are very poorly at the Australian Federal election such that we have an independent statutory and its impact on public policy would be body, the Queensland Corrective Services absolutely minuscule, if any. We might ask: Commission, that is responsible for policy and why is that so? the major decisions and audit of Queensland's At the State election we saw the Liberal prisons, with it contracting out the operation of and National Parties catapult a large number prisons to the two private operators and to the of One Nation members into this Parliament GOC Q Corr. on their preferences. We saw at the Federal Those decisions are made by the board election, though, the Liberal and National of the Queensland Corrective Services Parties wake up to their folly and officially direct Commission. The decisions that were made on preferences away from One Nation, except, of the grants issued this year, a few of which course, for a few renegade Nationals in sadly have proved controversial, were taken Queensland. And we know who they are. while the previous Government—the current I thought perhaps the coalition had Opposition—was in office. They were announced subsequently because they got learned from its folly and that it had suddenly held up by the election. But the entire review found some political principle. However, back and the changes in policy with regard to that in Australia, I picked up the Sydney Morning were taken by the previous QCSC board under Herald this morning to find out that it is all on its previous leadership and while the coalition again with the New South Wales election was in office. coming up. We see that in relation to the New South Wales election the One Nation Party is In relation to the individual examples that in the process of doing a preference deal with the member mentioned—for example, prisoner the National Party. The article states— support groups—I have no argument with who gets that level of funding. I should also point "In response to the preferences swap out that support for victims of crime is not suggestion, the Nationals' NSW chairman, within my portfolio, it is under that of the Mrs Helen Dickie, said her party's Attorney-General and Minister for Justice. He preferences would be decided seat-by- has added in this budget an additional $1m seat and that the Liberal Party would over and above what was there for victims of 'understand'." crime previously under the coalition. I should I bet the Liberal Party understands. We make the point that the Queensland Corrective certainly understand. I reckon every member in Services board makes decisions about where it this House understands what is on. It is 22 Oct 1998 Questions Without Notice 2701 straight from the Rob Borbidge school of wink, This morning we have seen a most wink, nudge, nudge politics. That is what it is. I disgraceful question from the shadow Minister noticed also in today's newspaper that the on the basis of trivialising what has been a New South Wales Senate candidate from One most serious incident in a Queensland prison Nation was trying to gatecrash official functions in the past 24 hours. That certainly is the at the IndyCar race on the weekend. This is allegation, that a woman prisoner has been the party that said no to Indy. Mr Oldfield very seriously sexually assaulted, and it is an turned up at the official box and, when he was alleged incident because it is still under rejected there, he went to the Carlton United investigation. It is being investigated by the box next door. Obviously, corporate Australia police, as it should be. But if it is found this has good sense. Corporate Australia showed incident as alleged did occur, it is a most him the door. It is just a shame that the Liberal serious incident and I am shocked that this and National Parties do not show One Nation shadow Minister would trivialise such a serious the door. Why are they not showing One incident. Nation the door? Is it just a case of grubby It is a distressing incident and I can politics and that they do not care what the assure him it is one that it is being investigated implications are for Australia's and by the police. It is an incident that is also being Queensland's trade in the region? investigated internally because it is most Mr Gibbs: Carlton wouldn't even give him appropriate that Queensland Corrections does a can of Fosters. its own internal investigation on how its Mr HAMILL: He would not get a can of procedures went wrong. It is also being Fosters, not even an empty one. investigated by the Queensland Corrective Services Commission, which has the proper role of auditing the work of the individual prison Sexual Assault, Townsville Prison operators who are contracted to it. I expect to have those reports back in my hands within Mr GRICE: The Minister for Police and two weeks and, of course, the police will be Corrective Services would be aware that a doing their investigation in their time, because female prisoner was sexually assaulted by a I do not interfere in the operations of the convicted rapist in Townsville prison. She was Police Service, and it is investigating it. unsupervised and working in the garden of the male section of the prison. When the Minister It is a most serious incident. We have an was in Opposition, he demanded that the then incident in which a female prisoner is alleged prisons Minister, Russell Cooper, accept to have been sexually assaulted. Immediate personal responsibility for all breaches in steps have been taken to ensure that the Queensland prisons. He has now been procedures are such that women prisoners are Minister for three and a half months and there not allowed into the secure custody men's have already been at least six serious area unless they are escorted very closely by incidents. I ask: will he now institute the usual prison officers. It is an incident about which I ALP task force, advertising campaign, am very concerned and, again, I am departmental inquiry— shocked—absolutely shocked—at the manner in which the shadow Minister has trivialised a An Opposition member: Or 1800 most serious incident. number.

Mr GRICE:—or 1800 number with some MIGATE Skills Centre Funding sporting stars involved to find out why he is such an irresponsible Minister? Ms NELSON-CARR: I ask the Minister for Employment and Training: will he inform the Mr BARTON: Talk about the pot calling House of the funding position of the MIGATE the kettle black when it comes to sporting stars skills centre in Mount Isa? wanting to use 1800 numbers! We have not seen anything like the sorts of incidents that Mr BRADDY: I have now received occurred under the previous coalition information in relation to the proposed funding Government when there were major escapes of the MIGATE skills centre. The situation is of the most dangerous criminals and naked this: MIGATE submitted a proposal for skills women found under beds in open custody centre funding and the proposal was originally prisons. endorsed by the department, and ANTA approved that MIGATE receive $367,000. Mr Beattie interjected. However, that proposal was put up in July Mr BARTON: It was a regular Peyton 1997 under the previous Government. It was Place. I think we should get back to the reality endorsed by the department when Mr Santoro of what this most serious incident is about. was the Minister and the Leader of the 2702 Questions Without Notice 22 Oct 1998

Opposition was the Premier, and it was also Mr BORBIDGE: I move that the Minister endorsed by ANTA. table the two documents that he has just Mr Santoro: What about the $600,000 referred to. application? Mr SANTORO: I rise to a point of order. The remarks made by the Minister in relation Mr SPEAKER: Order! The member for to my endorsement of the applications in Clayfield will cease interjecting. terms of apprenticeship training by MIGATE to Mr BRADDY: I will answer if the member take over TAFE are not true. I find the opposite gives me a chance. If he is quiet, I statements offensive, because the statements will answer. made by the Minister about me approving applications in favour of MIGATE at the However, that proposal did not proceed expense of TAFE are not true, and I ask him and has not proceeded under this to withdraw them. Government. We have had a good look at it. The matter has not been finalised. Since the Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no point of original endorsement, new issues— order. Mr Santoro: Ah, not finalised. Mr SANTORO: I find the statements about approvals that I allegedly gave to Mr BRADDY: Just be quiet—have come MIGATE in relation to Mount Isa TAFE untrue, to light and the earlier endorsement of the and I ask him to withdraw them. proposal is under very, very serious Mr BRADDY: May I argue the point? reconsideration. Although the previous Minister There is no point of order. I did not say he endorsed it, we have not. He and ANTA approved them at the expense of TAFE. I endorsed it; we have not. I can inform the said—and it is absolute fact—that, under the House that, since we have been in previous Government and the former Minister, Government, no funding has been received $367,000 was approved by his department from either the Commonwealth Government or and ANTA to go to MIGATE. I did not say "at the State Government. the expense of TAFE", as he alluded to. So Mr Santoro interjected. there is nothing wrong in what I said; it is a matter of fact. Mr SPEAKER: Order! I warn the member for Clayfield under Standing Order 123A. Mr SANTORO: Mr Speaker, I would, therefore, ask if you could allow me the same Mr BRADDY: As the information I gave indulgence that you just allowed the Minister. the member before indicated, the proposals that come up are not automatically endorsed Mr SPEAKER: Order! I am not going to by this Government. It was not endorsed. No allow a debate on this. funding has been received. There is no Mr SANTORO: The comments—— $600,000 proposal that has received Mr SPEAKER: Order! I will not allow endorsement. As I said before, officers of the debate on this. We are in question time and department have been out there talking to we are going to resume question time. both MIGATE and TAFE. They are working through a process to make sure that the Mr SANTORO: I found the comments training needs of the area are properly made by the Minister offensive, and I ask for endorsed. them to be withdrawn. Mr SPEAKER: Order! The member will No $600,000 has been endorsed by us. resume his seat. The comments did not refer The previous Minister endorsed $367,000. We to the member; they referred to a department. have not proceeded with it and Don Swete- They have been explained. Kelly, the Minister's former general manager of TAFE, set out to work through the problems of Mr SANTORO: He was talking about my MIGATE and TAFE. They are working through approval. them very well. A consultant also went out Mr SPEAKER: No, he was not. there on 15 October to commence the process Mr SANTORO: Yes, he was. of development of a training plan and potential in relation to MIGATE and how it fits in with Mr BEANLAND: I rise to a point of order. TAFE. The only proposal for paying substantial The member finds the—— funds that was ever endorsed was under the Mr SPEAKER: Order! I am not listening to previous Minister. It has not proceeded under two points of order at the same time. Is the us and there is a very serious doubt that it ever member for Indooroopilly taking a point of will. order or is the member for Clayfield? 22 Oct 1998 Questions Without Notice 2703

Mr BEANLAND: I rise to a point of order. compassion—perhaps for the school The member found the words offensive and I community or perhaps for the then marginal ask them to be withdrawn. Liberal member of Parliament—and he Opposition members interjected. decided on that occasion that he would be moved to fund the foundations for the school's Mr SPEAKER: Order! I am controlling the multipurpose ball courts. This is a noble thing Chamber. The Minister explained fully, I which the former Premier announced but, believe, that the comments were directed at a unfortunately, what he was able to supply in department approving those claims. The the announcement he was unable to supply in Minister said that they were directed at the the execution. Absolutely nothing whatsoever department approving those claims. I am quite was done about it after that. happy to peruse the Hansard of this event this morning and I will get back to the honourable I know that the then Minister for member for Clayfield. We will now resume Education said that this was wrong, because I question time. read in the South-East Advertiser, "Our commitment was rock solid." It was so rock solid that it did not appear in the capital works Sporting Complexes; Lang Park program of the Department of Education. The Redevelopment trick is, one has to actually do something apart Mr HEALY: I ask the Minister for Tourism, from merely announce it. I am not going to go Sport and Racing: is it true that his department ahead and fund every little bit of pork-barrelling is currently in discussions with the Brisbane that the former Premier decided to do in the City Council relating to the transfer of run-up to the last election—— responsibility for major venues, such as the Mr Hamill: Even with your $3 billion Chandler and Boondall complexes, to the budget you wouldn't be able to afford it. State Government in exchange for support for Mr WELLS: I take the Treasurer's the redevelopment of Lang Park; are he and interjection. his departmental officers frustrated in their attempts to negotiate with Lord Mayor Mr Borbidge: The only thing sillier than Soorley's office in an attempt to have the the interjection was the fact that you took it. Broncos released from their long-term contract Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Minister for at ANZ Stadium; and is it true that the member Education will continue his answer. for Mount Coot-tha has not been involved in Mr WELLS: He is drawing attention to the these discussions because she is regarded as enormous accountability requirements of this a stumbling block in his efforts to redevelop Government. While I am not going to fund Suncorp Stadium? every piece of pork-barrelling that this former Mr GIBBS: I have to treat the question Government engaged in, there are particular with the contempt it deserves. There is simply circumstances in this case. This school no truth to anything the member has said. He community, on faith, went ahead with the is way off beam. program. It would be most unfair and inequitable if it were slugged with this now. In those circumstances, I think the only fair thing, Coorparoo Secondary College taking into account the interests of the school Mr FENLON: I draw the attention of the and the interests of the Premier of the time, Minister for Education to reports in a local who should not be embarrassed in this way, newspaper of a promise made by the member would be to go ahead and keep his promise. for Surfers Paradise when, as the former He did not keep his promise, but we will keep Premier, he told a gathering at the Coorparoo it. Secondary College that they would have new The honourable members for Surfers sporting facilities. Would the Minister please Paradise and Merrimac may now safely go inform the House whether the department has back to Greenslopes in the sure knowledge a record of the promise being funded? What is that their names will not be mud. Although the Minister's position on providing assistance they did not deliver on their promise, we to the college? delivered on their promise. Mr WELLS: This is a famous event. I Time expired. have heard on a number of occasions how the former Premier attended the speech night of the Coorparoo Secondary College. Apparently Waiting Lists it was a very emotional experience for him and Miss SIMPSON: I refer to claims by the he had a tremendous up-welling of Minister for Health about a hidden waiting list, 2704 Questions Without Notice 22 Oct 1998 and I ask: will she table this hidden waiting list? that is acceptable; I simply do not. We are Specifically, will the Minister give details about working very hard to address the shortage of the specialty areas she claims are in this physicians in Mackay so that that is no longer waiting list? Is it true that this alleged hidden the case. As we get more information about waiting list of 36,000 people is comprised of where these problems are, we will be not only those waiting for elective surgery but addressing them. also medical and mental cases? Miss Simpson: Table the report. Mrs EDMOND: I have to say that I am Mrs EDMOND: I do not have a report surprised the member opposite asks this here. As I said in the media, we have early question, because it leads to enormous indications. I have asked the department to embarrassment for the previous Minister, who start collecting this information and these are kept standing up in this place and telling us the early indications given to me. that he had the waiting lists under control and that nobody was waiting more than a couple of Time expired. months when that was not the case, as is quite clear from the letters I received on a daily Cooler Schools Program basis in Opposition and from the letters I am still receiving from members opposite about Mr PEARCE: I draw the attention of the people who have been waiting for a couple of Minister for Education to the Government's years. Those opposite know that this is the commitment to the Cooler Schools program. fact. I see some of the smirks and the Can the Minister inform the House as to the concern. They are saying to me that they difference between Labor's promise and the could not get Mike Horan to admit it and that promise made by the member for Surfers hopefully I will sort out the problem. Paradise, when as Premier he promised to provide funding for the cost of airconditioners The former Health Minister, in trying to fitted to Moranbah schools? make himself look good in front of the cameras, was prepared to keep patients out of Mr WELLS: The situation there is the hospitals. People were waiting not just for extremely interesting. I have here a letter from surgery; they were waiting to see specialists. the former Premier, addressed to the secretary Was there any attempt to get any indication of of the Moranbah school's airconditioning how many people were waiting? I kept hearing committee. The letter states in part— the rumours. If I kept hearing the rumours that "While Moranbah lies outside the there were 1,000 at the Gold Coast, 1,200 at area for which Cabinet has approved the Nambour and 500 at Rockhampton, why did use of evaporative cooling equipment in the Minister not hear some of these rumours? schools at government expense, I believe I have actually asked the department to start that special circumstances exist in this looking at how many people were waiting. instance." Miss Simpson: Table the document. Mr Foley: Which Premier was that? Mrs EDMOND: If the member is so Mr WELLS: That was former Premier of concerned about the documents, why does Queensland Mr Rob Borbidge. The special she not go through the extensive files of the circumstances that existed at that time were previous Minister and all the transition the forthcoming local government elections. documents we have handed her. She has The letter was actually dated 26 March 1997. everything. She should look and see how There was a big push in that local government much work the former Minister did to find out area for a little bit of credibility for the how many people were waiting. Nothing! Zilch! Government. I have actually started the process and The Government then went ahead. The the early indication, as I said, is that there are then Government was proposing to fund this almost as many people waiting to see out of a special Co-ordinator General's capital specialists at the hospitals as there are waiting works allocation from the Premier's for surgery. Some 20,000 of those people are Department—a rather unusual and peculiar waiting in key surgery areas such as way of funding Education Department orthopaedics, ENT and so on. My programs. Of course, that is not possible under understanding is that some of those people the more accountable arrangements we have, are also waiting for medical specialists, and but the Education Department will ensure once that is a concern. In Mackay, I was told, again that the member for Surfers Paradise is diabetics are waiting four months for an not embarrassed. We do not want the former appointment with a physician to have their Government to be embarrassed in this way diabetes stabilised. Those opposite may think and, in particular, we want to ensure that the 22 Oct 1998 Privilege 2705 children of Moranbah get adequate Premier on any financial assistance or airconditioning. We are prepared to deliver on otherwise for MIGATE. the former Premier's promise. It is true to say that, recently, the Premier Mr SPEAKER: Order! The time for attended a meeting of the Mount Isa City questions has expired. Council, and amongst other issues which were raised was the problem of training young people in outback Queensland. The Premier PRIVILEGE requested one of the councillors, who was also Apprenticeship Training, Mount Isa at that time the general manager of MIGATE, Hon. T. McGRADY (Mount Isa—ALP) to put his thoughts in writing, which he did. The (Minister for Mines and Energy and Minister general manager of MIGATE asked me would Assisting the Deputy Premier on Regional I pass on the suggestions to the Premier, Development) (11.30 a.m.): I rise on a point of which I did—I understand via Her Majesty's privilege. Approximately 10 years ago, I visited mail. I have received no further information an operation in Townsville known as Torgas, from the Premier on this matter. which was the local group apprenticeship Let me assure this House that if scheme. At that time I was Mayor of the City of Opposition members feel that by this scurrilous Mount Isa. I was convinced that if Townsville attack this morning they are going to prevent could operate such a scheme, we could do so me from helping the kids not just in Mount Isa in the north-west. I got around me a group of but right throughout the gulf country, then they union leaders, businesspeople and others, are sadly mistaken. I would suggest to and we eventually secured assistance from the members opposite that they involve ACTU and the Lend Lease Corporation to do a themselves in some of the community report into the feasibility of such a group organisations which are bringing benefits to apprenticeship scheme in Mount Isa and the young kids. north-west. We eventually succeeded in The relationship between MIGATE and getting financial assistance from the State and the Mount Isa Institute of TAFE has always Federal Governments. been excellent until very recent times. Let me In the first year, we put through 130 also inform the House that, at the annual young kids who otherwise would have been on general meeting of MIGATE, which occurred a the unemployment scrap heap. Over the 10 couple of weeks ago, I moved—and it was years that I have been chairman of MIGATE, unanimously carried—that we invite either the we have put through some 1,200 young director or one of his nominees to be a director people. During those 10 years, I have never of my board. I also suggested that maybe one received a single solitary cent from MIGATE. I of my board members could sit on the college have never attended a conference at its council. I understand that this offer has been expense or, indeed, been on any trip. accepted. I further inform the House that tomorrow night a barbecue has been arranged In the early days, the directors of TAFE between TAFE and MIGATE at which my wife played a prominent part in my organisation, and I, and possibly my son, will be in either as a director of the board or, indeed, helping in many other ways. In recent times attendance. Mount Isa Mines—— In conclusion, I want to reiterate a couple of points. First of all, I am totally committed, as Mr Borbidge interjected. this Government is, to the success of TAFE. I Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Leader of the have assured anybody who has ever asked Opposition! The Minister will be allowed to me about my position in regard to TAFE of make his point of privilege. that commitment. I am the chairman of a Mr McGRADY: In recent times, Mount Isa group apprenticeship scheme which is trying to Mines Limited, which used to take on well in put kids into jobs. I see that role as a very excess of 100 apprentices a year, took a important role in the life of a member of decision that it was no longer interested in that Parliament. My position on MIGATE is in the type of training. It made an offer to MIGATE to register of pecuniary interests of members. see if we would be interested in taking up The Minister has pointed out that the where they left off. Negotiations and assistance came not from the Labor discussions were entered into by the general Government but, indeed, the coalition manager of MIGATE and officers of Mount Isa Government. And as I have said many times Mines. At no time was I ever involved in those this week, for heaven's sake get out of the negotiations. I have never at any time had gutter and try to assist those people who are discussions with the Minister or, indeed, the trying to do the right thing by the young kids of 2706 Privilege 22 Oct 1998

Queensland. I make no apologies to anybody, members of the Government do not want that either in this House or in this State, for trying to privilege extended to me. help the kids whom I represent. There are Mr SPEAKER: Order! I need to hear the 1,200 kids from Normanton, Mount Isa, member's point of privilege. Cloncurry, Karumba and right around the gulf who—— Mr BORBIDGE: The simple fact is that there has been widespread concern in Mount Mr BEANLAND: I rise to a point of order. Isa about the future of TAFE operations in that Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Minister is just city and the fact that TAFE operations in that concluding. city may have been compromised by the Mr BORBIDGE: Can I rise on a matter of conflict of interest of the Minister for Mines and privilege and have equal time to reply? Mr Energy in his capacity as chairman of that Speaker, will you give me the indulgence of particular organisation and the fact that his son having equal time to respond on a matter of is employed by that organisation. When this privilege? Government came to office, we were told—— Mr SPEAKER: Order! Mr SPEAKER: Order! I need to hear the member's point of privilege. Mr McGRADY: In conclusion, I believe that, in the past 10 years, we have got 1,200 Mr BORBIDGE: It is the very matter of kids jobs, trades and apprenticeships thanks to privilege that the member for Mount Isa—— MIGATE and the work of that organisation. Mr SPEAKER: Order! No, that is not a point of privilege. Mr BORBIDGE: I move— PRIVILEGE "That the Leader of the Opposition Apprenticeship Training, Mount Isa be further heard." Hon. R. E. BORBIDGE (Surfers Mr SPEAKER: Order! I have not asked Paradise—NPA) (Leader of the Opposition) the Leader of the Opposition to resume his (11.37 a.m.): I rise on a matter of privilege, seat. and I ask for the same courtesies to be extended to me. The simple fact is that Mr BORBIDGE: Mr Speaker, are you today—— happy for me to continue? Mr Elder interjected. Mr SPEAKER: Order! I have not asked the Leader of the Opposition to resume his Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Deputy seat; I have asked him to state his matter of Premier! privilege. Mr BORBIDGE: What about a very Mr BORBIDGE: Mr Speaker, I am moving distinct conflict of interest? that I be further heard. I take it that you have Government members interjected. no objection to that. Mr BORBIDGE: As Premier in this place, I Mr SPEAKER: Order! I will confer with the listened to the honourable members opposite Clerk. who are interjecting telling my Ministers that Mr Seeney interjected. they could not vote on a land Bill because they held leasehold land. Those were the standards Mr SPEAKER: The member for Callide! I imposed by honourable members opposite. warned the House before about interjections. There will be no further interjections. I will hear Honourable members interjected. the Leader of the Opposition. I ask that the Mr SPEAKER: Order! The House will Leader of the Opposition keep his point short. come to order. I will hear the member's point Mr BORBIDGE: Thank you, Mr Speaker. I of privilege in silence. I want to know what the appreciate your courtesy. The fact that a point of privilege is. If there are any further member of Parliament lists a pecuniary interest interruptions to the proceedings this morning, I on a register does not mean that that member will start warning members under Standing of Parliament cannot be asked questions in Order 123A. respect of a potential conflict of interest. I Mr BORBIDGE: My point of privilege is headed a Government for two and a half years exactly the same point of privilege as that that was subject to blatant muckraking by the raised by the Minister for Mines and Energy, member for Brisbane Central in respect of the member for Mount Isa. Mr Speaker, I allegations of conflict of interest. appreciate your giving me the indulgence Today we have a senior Minister who is a despite the fact that, clearly, a number of chairman of a company that is in competition 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2707 with TAFE for the provision of services in his the work done by that committee, especially electorate and we have widespread concern in the behind-the-scenes work. Recognition of Mount Isa that TAFE services are being these dedicated, committed and, dare I say, withdrawn. That is the fundamental area of tireless workers is very necessary. The Minister concern in respect of this particular matter. for Women's Policy has demonstrated a When questions were asked of him this genuine commitment to supporting morning, as usual the Minister for Employment Queensland women wherever they live. The refused to answer them. My matter of privilege addressing of the high level of domestic is this—— violence that exists in some Aboriginal and Mr BRADDY: I rise to a point of order. I Torres Strait Islander communities is find that remark untrue and offensive. I demonstrated in the Minister's commitment to answered all the questions. I even sent for social justice issues and her awareness of the extra information and supplied the dollar need for programs to be culturally relevant. figures in relation to this matter. Therefore, the The Department of Families, Youth and remark is untrue and offensive. Community Care provides and supports a Mr SPEAKER: Order! The Leader of the diverse range of services for children, young Opposition will withdraw. people, people with a disability, older people and families. The department works with other Mr BORBIDGE: If the Minister finds those organisations and communities to ensure the remarks offensive, I withdraw. ongoing development of community networks Clearly the Minister has been caught out and the delivery of services that are responsive in attempts to wind down TAFE operations in to people's needs. I acknowledge that the Mount Isa to the benefit of his colleague the Department of Families, Youth and Minister for Mines and Energy. If the member Community Care is responsible for the for Brisbane Central imposed the same ethical development of services for people who have standards on his Ministry as he sought to a disability. Some of those services include the impose on mine, there would be two Ministers provision of a range of direct and funded in his Government who would be giving a very accommodation and lifestyle support. I solid explanation in respect of their likely congratulate the department on its budgeted breach of the ministerial code of ethics that I support that will be provided to people with an introduced, which this Premier refuses to intellectual disability or complex support needs. enforce. Funding is provided to further address the high Mr SPEAKER: Order! Will the Clerk read levels of unmet need in the disability sector. the order of the day? Those funds will be used to provide accommodation and support services to Mr Elder interjected. individuals and families, ensure equitable Mr BORBIDGE: The Deputy Premier has access to disability services for disadvantaged made certain offensive remarks leaving the groups and commence the piloting of local Chamber. I ask that he return to the Chamber area coordination. and withdraw those remarks. Those improvements that support and Mr Elder: If he wants me to withdraw the assist people with disabilities are very welcome fact that he is a fraud, I withdraw. in my electorate. Today I would like to pay Mr BORBIDGE: The Deputy Premier did respect and homage to an incredible human not return to his seat. being in my electorate, Mr Vincent Morelli. He is 28 years old. Three years ago he was Mr ELDER: If he wants me to withdraw involved in a diving accident that left him with the fact that he is a fraud, I withdraw the quadriplegia. Prior to his accident, Mr Morelli remark. was an active and productive member of society; now he is mostly bedridden, APPROPRIATION (PARLIAMENT) BILL wheelchair bound and is unable to perform APPROPRIATION BILL simple tasks such as feed himself, dress himself, get out of bed or answer the Committee (Cognate Debate) telephone without assistance. Vince is now Estimates Committee D totally reliant on carers for everyday support. Report His quadriplegia has left him with biceps but no triceps, so he can raise his arms to a certain Resumed from 21 October (see p. 2665). height but he is unable to put his arms down Ms NELSON-CARR (Mundingburra—ALP) again. He cannot grasp anything. He has no (11.43 a.m.): I rise to support the report of sensation in his upper body and requires Estimates Committee D. I wish to commend postural support to be able to sit. It is almost 2708 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 impossible to imagine what it must be like to the Minister, Ms Spence, and her ministerial go from being an active member of the staff and departmental officers. I think they community to becoming reliant on everybody were as cooperative as they could be given for everything. These limits and restrictions the task at hand of having a new Minister in a must take their toll. new portfolio and going through the process of I had the opportunity to meet with Vince establishing her ministerial offices, and get to know him a little. What I discovered departmental offices, director-general's office was human nature at its best. Vince is an and so on. I thank her for her cooperation and accepting, caring and loving person whose endeavours to answer questions in a manner attitude to life leaves one feeling humble and that was both acceptable to me and indeed in awe. Despite the physical hardship appreciated by me as a shadow Minister. and emotional upheaval that the accident During the Estimates committee hearing I would have caused, Vince has a wicked sense raised one or two issues that were of concern of humour and wonderful outlook on life. To to me. This morning, in rising on a matter of meet him is truly an experience. He lives within privilege, I again raised the issue concerning the community in a private rental property that the Premier and the appointment of Marg has been modified for wheelchairs. In the O'Donnell as the Director-General of the community, he is supported by two carers on Minister's department. In this House, the carer payments from Centrelink. One carer Premier stated that any director-general who supplies support at night. During the weekend had no previous experience in Government he is supported with two hours on Saturday would have to go through a formal application and two hours on Sunday by HAAC. The interview process. During the Estimates difficulty is that carers require respite and time committee process, I was surprised to learn off each week. Without the flexibility of having that the Minister had not adhered to that. In his own finance to arrange carer hours, fact, Marg O'Donnell was appointed to that Vincent is continually struggling to juggle carer position by the Minister and that appointment hours and his personal care needs. He has was approved by the Premier without that been left in the position of being in bed for position being advertised. As I said, that is now three hours urgently requiring assistance but a matter for the Members' Ethics and was unable to contact anyone. Vince requires Parliamentary Privileges Committee. recurrent funding for 35 hours per week. I also find the Sagacity saga difficult to I would like to take this opportunity to comprehend, given that the Minister was thank not only Vince for allowing me to visit but aware of Mr Ken Maddock's employment as a also the Queensland Paraplegic and consultant by the Director-General, Marg Quadriplegic Association of Queensland for O'Donnell. A $10,000 consultancy fee was inviting me to meet with them. They are a paid to Mr Maddock and two days after the wonderful and hardworking association and completion of that consultancy he was deserve lots of praise for the work that they do. appointed to a senior position in the I will be actively campaigning towards department—an SES level position on some improving Vince's lot and giving him the $100,000 a year—without an interview process opportunity to live a better life and become a and without that position having been productive member of our community. It is with advertised in the Government Gazette before pride that I work in the Beattie Government. I his appointment. I know that the position was once again congratulate the Minister for advertised four or five days after his Families, Youth and Community Care on her appointment, but it had not been advertised in very fair, supportive and positive budget. the Gazette before his appointment. I was Mr DAVIDSON (Noosa—LP) (11.48 a.m.): advised by one of the Minister's officers that I would like to recognise the Chair of Estimates Mr Maddock and Miss Marg O'Donnell had in Committee D, Mr Sullivan. I thought that he their previous lives worked together in the did a fairly good job. He was a bit tough in former Departments of Attorney-General and some areas and had to pull me up once or Consumer Affairs. Obviously, they had some twice, but that is Terry. I congratulate him on friendship and relationship in days gone by. I getting through the process without too many would not go as far as to say that it might have dramas. His chairmanship of that committee been an old mate's act in Mr Maddock and his cooperative working relationship with receiving that consultancy or being appointed the staff was something that I appreciated. I to a senior position within the Minister's thank him for that. I recognise the efforts of department on $100,000 a year without that the staff, David Thannhauser and Penny position being advertised in the Gazette. Sullivan, and express my thanks to them. They During the Estimates committee hearings, were excellent and always available. I thank I raised another matter that has concerned me 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2709 and that was that the Minister was not able to Because of the manner in which the give an iron-clad commitment that the Retail Estimates committees are formed, the Shop Leases Act would be administered by honourable member for Crows Nest was the her department or by the Minister for State sole voice for the Opposition. I trust that he Development. She was quite uncertain and thought that the hearing was worth while. toing-and-froing, "It may be my department; it Gauging by his comments yesterday, I believe may be the State Development Department." that he thought that to be the case. At the She did not go so far as to say that it could be hearing, the member for Crows Nest administered by some other department. The expressed a lot of interest in an address in Minister and the Government need to September by the United States President, Bill appreciate that small business and business Clinton, to the National Farmers Union. In generally across this State place a heavy common with the honourable member, I reliance upon the work that is done for them looked up Mr Clinton's address on the Internet by the officers who administer the Retail Shop and noted it. I recognise that any comments Leases Act. I really believe that, as a matter of on agriculture made by a US President hold urgency, certainty should be given to the significance for Queensland's primary business community in this State as to who will producers. It is also interesting to note that Mr be the Minister responsible for that Act and Clinton's address to the National Farmers that it should be given a home as quickly as Union was made on 15 September, the same possible. date as this Government delivered its first Budget. In closing, I thank the chairman, the staff, the Minister, her ministerial staff and the As I informed the House on Budget day, I departmental staff. I think the process is worth was in a position to announce an increased while. I have often questioned whether the budget for the DPI. I would specifically like to Estimates committees are essential to the mention this Government's $2.38m initiative administration of this Parliament, given the over four years for a campaign against the enormous cost and the time that it takes heliothis threat to Queensland's field crop and departmental officers to prepare and the horticultural industries. This research program enormous resources that are used in will unify the research, development and preparation for these hearings. extension effort against heliothis across industries, regions and providers of research, Time expired. development and extension. The Opposition had made some noises about what it was Hon. H. PALASZCZUK (Inala—ALP) going to do about the heliothis threat, which (Minister for Primary Industries) (11.53 a.m.): I could cost our field crop industries about would like to thank the Estimates committee, $150m per annum. Unfortunately, the especially its chairman, the member for honourable member for Crows Nest has been Chermside, for their participation in the the one making the noise, but I fear that he committee hearings. I would also like to take was not properly briefed on what his this opportunity to thank the Department of colleagues did and did not do. That is a Primary Industries staff who also participated. shame. A press release promise is one thing Estimates committees are a very important and a Budget commitment is another thing. part of our democratic process, and it was Unfortunately for our grain, cotton and refreshing to see this particular committee run horticultural industries, the former coalition so smoothly. Again, I would like to congratulate the honourable member for Government refused to include any funding for Chermside on the manner in which he carried heliothis control in its May Budget. out his duties as the chairman of the I will take this opportunity to comment on committee. a couple of the issues that were raised by various members of the committee. First of all, It was also a pleasure for me to commend I acknowledge the contribution made by the the Department of Primary Industries budget honourable member for Nicklin. On a couple of for 1998-99 to the Estimates committee. The occasions I was surprised and stunned by the focus for the increased DPI budget for 1998- questions that he asked and I was very 99 is investing in the future. The DPI has a pleased that I was able to respond to him in a very important role of fostering and developing satisfactory manner. To the members on the the economic potential of Queensland's Government side who asked questions and primary industries. This Government has took part in the Estimates process, I must recognised how crucial this role is and it is commend them on the quality of their investing in the Department of Primary questions, the research that they undertook, Industries to enhance it. and their commitment as members of the 2710 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998

Estimates committee to primary industries in completed its strategic review of management Queensland. In conclusion, I pay personal options to increase the exotic pine plantations. thanks to the honourable member for Crows Of course, we hope that that will proceed. Nest for the manner in which he took part in The National Competition Policy is the Estimates committee. As he said, he did affecting the dairy farmers in my area and quite extensive research. I am quite sure that throughout Queensland. Those farmers can the exchange of ideas will really help the DPI. do without this policy, which hinders what they Mr STEPHAN (Gympie—NPA) have been doing for a long time. There is no (11.58 a.m.): It gives me great pleasure to doubt in my mind that the diary industry is take part in this debate, particularly as it is going from strength to strength. important to horticulture and agriculture. I note Time expired. that the committee inquired into the Rural Market Development Unit and the work that it Hon. A. M. BLIGH (South Brisbane—ALP) can do for potential exporters. I was also (Minister for Families, Youth and Community pleased to note that the Queensland Care and Minister for Disability Services) Horticulture Research Development Committee (12.04 p.m.): I start by thanking all members of is very interested in export markets and for Estimates Committee D for their work in bringing together this year's Estimates. I some time has been going down that track. particularly congratulate the Chair, the member The horticulture industry is involved in for Chermside, for his expert guidance of the global competition and needs to be industry deliberations of the committee. I also driven to satisfy customer and market needs, recognise the hard work of the staff of the thus resulting in the improved profitability, committee, my own ministerial staff and the sustainability and lifestyle of our growers. staff of the department who, as always, have Research and its extension plays an integral put in an outstanding effort. part in maintaining and improving the The first Budget of the Beattie Labor industry's leading position in Australian Government in this portfolio is the largest horticulture and is vital to the industry's vision. allocation in the history of the agency. By the The Queensland Fruit and Vegetable time that this Government is introducing its Funding Committee has contributed $1m for fourth Budget in the year 2001, we will have research into horticulture, which has been injected nearly $280m into the base funding of matched dollar for dollar by Government. the agency. People with disabilities, their Through the committee structure, industry has families and support services have received a direct input into the direction of horticultural the biggest ever single injection of funds. An research in Queensland. The importance of allocation in excess of $126m over four years this research can never be underestimated. will be used to address the unmet needs in With consumer demand for high-quality fruit disability services right across the State and will and vegetables, the growers themselves are substantially address and repair the neglect of under constant pressure to deliver a high- this sector by the previous Government. quality product, often in the face of changing In this Budget we kept our promise on market demands and environmental disability funding. In one Budget we have conditions. Continuing research will assist achieved what the coalition Government growers to meet those challenges. I wish them comprehensively failed to do in three Budgets. all the best and congratulate them on a job We have provided $30m worth of funding well done. into disability services—twice what the member The Forest Production Program is being for Indooroopilly squandered on the developed, but it has a long way to go. The Connolly/Ryan inquiry. The Budget also committee was informed that the 1998-99 provides a $25m increase over four years to target of 450 hectares for the expansion of community sector organisations to meet their farm forestry plantations reflected the industrial obligations. Those organisations will increased expressions of interest and equity now be able to provide services and sharing by private landowners, and is up from adequately reward their committed and often 335 hectares of plantations that were allocated overworked staff. This commitment stands in in 1997-98. The committee was advised that stark contrast to the attitude of the previous during the latter part of 1998 and the early part Government. The Minister for Health at the of 1999, the department will proceed to call for time, the member for Toowoomba South, expressions of interest in the purchase of a stated—— major volume of uncommitted exotic pine from "There are few better examples of the Gympie/Maryborough plantations. This will the greed and callousness of the Union be undertaken once DPI Forestry has movement than the Social and 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2711

Community Services (SACS) Award. The not serious. If they were and he seriously actions of Labor's mates, the ASU, in believed that I had misled the committee, he pursuing this award against the wishes of would be taking further action. many working in the voluntary and non The comments of the member for Government sector, were calculated to Indooroopilly regarding the Forde inquiry are strike at the aged, the sick and the simply disgraceful. To use the dissenting report poor ..." to make those comments is little more than This Government does not regard the another grubby attempt by him to undermine industrial rights of workers in that way. the inquiry and besmirch the character of one of the commissioners. In the dissenting report The Budget commits $17m to new child- the member repeats the false accusation that care initiatives. The package of funds will Mr Hans Heilpern was sacked from his position improve the quality of child care through facility as director-general when he knows this to be upgrades and equipment purchases, the false. He has been unable to present any construction of three new centres and evidence to the contrary to the Parliament. It expanded outside school hours care was not the subject of any discussion at programs. Ours is the only State Government Estimates Committee D and, in my view, is in Australia that is taking any action to redress inappropriately placed in the dissenting report. the effects of the savage attacks on child care The attacks by the member make a mockery by the Howard Government. of the Opposition's so-called claims to support Older Queenslanders have not been the Forde inquiry. The member for forgotten. Not only have we reintroduced the Indooroopilly and the Opposition continue to motor vehicle registration concession, attempt to undermine a very serious inquiry by benefiting more than 28,000 Seniors Card trying to score cheap political points. The holders but also the ambulance subscription comments of the member for Indooroopilly concession to be administered by my regarding the Children's Commissioner are department will see free ambulance cover for similarly appalling. I commend the budget for seniors. In addition, this budget includes funds this portfolio to the Committee. to establish three pilot juvenile justice centres, Time expired. provides for the relocation of Basil Stafford residents, and funds the implementation of Mr ROWELL (Hinchinbrook—NPA) youth suicide prevention strategies and (12.10 p.m.): A number of frivolous claims juvenile crime prevention programs. This is a have been made by the Minister for Primary good-news Budget for all who care about the Industries. In taking part in this debate on the health and wellbeing of our children, our report of Estimates Committee D, I wish to make absolutely clear to the Parliament my families and our communities. involvement with the QLMA. I refer the Minister What does the member for Indooroopilly for Primary Industries to a letter dated 14 May have to say about this budget in his dissenting 1998 from me, as the then Minister for Primary report, which I believe can only be described Industries, to the Chairman of the Queensland as churlish, mealy mouthed and mean Livestock and Meat Authority, Mr Richard spirited? Firstly, he expresses concern about Goldup, which stated— whether any of the $209,000 for machinery of "... I am pleased to advise that additional Government changes was expended on funding will be made available in 1998/99 signage. I answered this question both on to address the potential insolvency of the notice and in the hearings. He has presented QLMA. The exact amount is yet to be nothing to refute my answer, which stands. He determined, but sufficient funding will be goes on to express concern about a question provided so as to prevent the insolvency on notice regarding task forces. I clarified the of the QLMA." member's concern in detail at the hearings, yet he continues to fail to provide contradictory The letter went on to state that "based upon a information. Yesterday afternoon in the further independent assessment as outlined in Chamber, he was unable to name one task my previous letter which will be undertaken force, one review or any such thing that I had over the next four weeks" there will be no cost instituted and not brought to the attention of incurred to the authority. A lot of what the the committee. The Government's Minister has been saying about the QLMA is commitment to increasing the staffing absolutely incorrect. We were prepared to resources in child protection is also support it in redressing the situation that it questioned. Again, the documents provided found itself in as a result of the Casey era. and my answers to the committee do not I wish also to speak about certain other substantiate his concerns. His concerns are aspects of the DPI. I note that money has 2712 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 been provided for the Northwatch program. and thorough in preparing briefs for me for the That is absolutely essential. During the papaya committee hearing. fruit fly outbreak in Queensland, $30,000—a I believe the majority report of the very meagre amount—was provided by the committee correctly identifies the important then Government, with Mr Casey as Primary initiatives of the two new departments—the Industries Minister, which did not allow for a Department of Equity and Fair Trading and the complete trapping program to be carried out Department of Aboriginal and Torres Strait around the Cairns area. I believe it was largely Islander Policy and Development—and also because of that that up to five generations of those with respect to my other ministerial the papaya fruit fly were allowed to breed responsibilities, those of the Building Services before being detected in the Cairns region. Authority and the Residential Tenancies Earlier in the year, there was almost an Authority. epidemic on the islands close to PNG. DPI I have to say, though, that I found the staff monitored the situation and assisted with minority report of the committee very a program of eradication similar to that on the disappointing. It reflects the very sad lengths mainland in the Cairns quarantine area. That to which the shadow Minister will go to score outbreak was very costly for the growers. The cheap political points. I wish to dwell on a few program of disinfestation meant that growers of the issues raised in the minority report that I had to spray their fruit with chemicals. A lot of believe should be refuted in this Chamber. In good work was done by the DPI, and the saying that I was disappointed in the minority public also assisted greatly. Roadblocks were report, I will also add that I am surprised that set up and the public had to stop to have any the member for Crows Nest has signed off on fruit they were carrying inspected. Additionally, this report, as he was not there at all during consignments from growers were also the Estimates committee hearing when I was inspected. It was a considerable disadvantage in attendance. Similarly, another member in for the growers and it also caused disruption to this House, Mrs Dorothy Pratt, recently claimed the general public. It would have cost more but in the South Burnett Times that she has been for the very good work by both growers and very busy in Brisbane lately attending the DPI which resulted in total eradication. This Estimates committees in relation to Aboriginal program will be completed in about May/June and Torres Strait Islander issues and Fair 1999. Monitoring will continue and, hopefully, Trading, and that the following week she would we will maintain total eradication, with the be attending another Estimates committee. If support from the other States. There is no members are going to make these claims and doubt that it is a great achievement. sign off on minority reports, the least they can I wish to move on briefly to discuss the do is attend the committee hearings. It is not sugarcane smut problem, which could prove too much to ask to scrutinise the Queensland detrimental to the Queensland sugar industry. Budget. It has been found in Western Australia and A Government member interjected. some work is being carried out to ensure that we do not see smut on the east coast, which Ms SPENCE: It is disgraceful. would disrupt the $2 billion industry in The first issue that I wish to draw to the Queensland. I hope the Minister is conferring attention of the House in the minority report is very closely with the Western Australian that of the ministerial office upgrade. The Government, because the transportation of all minority report states— sorts of products from Western Australia could "The non-government members note prove detrimental to Queensland. with concern the costs associated with the Time expired. upgrading of conventional office space in Hon. J. C. SPENCE (Mount Gravatt— Mineral House to accommodate a ALP) (Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait ministerial office ..." Islander Policy and Minister for Women's I explained very clearly at the Estimates Policy and Minister for Fair Trading) committee hearing that there was no (12.14 p.m.): I wish to begin by thanking the ministerial office for me. We had created two committee for its deliberations, especially the new Government departments, and there was Chair of the committee, Mr Terry Sullivan, who no office for my director-general or the senior I believe conducted the whole day's staff of my office. I resided temporarily in an proceedings in a very professional manner, office in the Environment Department building, and the staff of the committee. In doing so, I but that obviously was not going to be recognise also the very hard work of the staff satisfactory for me or the senior staff of the of my two departments, who were professional department in the long run. 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2713

I draw to the attention of the House the has agreed that there will be electricity fact that I was very honest with respect to my concessions, although they will be means ministerial office upgrade and informed the tested. Maybe we have to move away from Estimates committee that it cost some means testing in the future, but at least those $360,000. That compares very favourably with people who, through means testing, will qualify ministerial office upgrades under previous for electricity concessions will get concessions National Party and Liberal Party Governments. for using their oxygen concentrators and I wish to draw attention to one previous kidney dialysis machines. I certainly thank the ministerial office upgrade that occurred in the Government for agreeing to that particular last Government, namely, that for the Minister point. for Lands at the time, Mr Howard Hobbs, who I was disappointed during the Estimates years ago decided that the ministerial office he to see once again the Minister concentrating inherited in the Lands Department was not an attack on the former director-general, Mr good enough for him and that he would create Allan Male. This has really become an a ministerial office for himself in Mineral House. indecent obsession for the Minister, but still I At the time, that cost over $400,000. By suppose it results from the fact that Jackie comparison my recent upgrade is quite Byrne was sacked originally. However, it still is modest. an indecent obsession and I am disappointed The fact that the Opposition should to see that the member for Chermside choose to attack me on this issue is participated in that particular attack, especially disappointing but predictable. The coalition, when he recently gave quite a speech in this which was very happy to see the Office of Chamber about what he thought about the Women's Policy and the Office of Aboriginal Christian Brothers and what we should do and Torres Strait Islander Policy shunted away about them. I think the member for Chermside in town out of sight now cannot handle the fact would admit that Allan Male is one person who that the new Labor Government has given has really worked hard in the Shaftesbury these areas priority. In fact, so little is the Centre. coalition concerned about the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people of Queensland Nine thousand to 10,000 FOI forms were that it does not even have a shadow Minister accessed through the Department of Families. responsible for that portfolio. One can imagine A criticism was found in those 9,000 to 10,000 how embarrassed I am when I go to meetings, forms that were accessed about the as I did in Cairns last week, and address the Shaftesbury Centre back in the 1970s about a formal council of the Aboriginal Coordinating particular audit brought on because of Council and have those people ask me, sickness at that particular time. The Minister "Minister, who is the shadow Minister in the then took that particular comment and coalition for Aboriginal and Torres Strait criticised the Shaftesbury Centre and then Islander Affairs?", and I have to say to them, eventually Shaftesbury Campus. Mr Male does "They do not have one." They care so little for not want me to continue talking about it. I these people in Queensland that they have know the details. I do not want this attack to not even assigned a shadow Minister for this continue because Mr Male has no recourse to portfolio. It is shameful, outrageous and an Parliament. But it still is an indecent obsession embarrassment to all of us. In the very limited that the Minister has continued with over the time I have available, I wish to refute the past two years. predictable but disappointing criticisms that we I am also disappointed to find that $2.6m have heard today and also read in the minority was allocated for neighbourhood centres, report. which are called multipurpose centres. Time expired. However, at a recent opening of one of those neighbourhood centres, one of the Hon. K. R. LINGARD (Beaudesert—NPA) departmental people spoke about the 10 (12.19 p.m.): On 18 September I raised my neighbourhood centres or multipurpose concern that the ALP might be going to drop centres that this Government was going to the electricity concessions for life support build. Back in 1996 there were to be 10 systems for people who might be on oxygen multipurpose or neighbourhood centres. We concentrators or kidney dialysis machines. I allocated $2.6m for five of those centres. have received an answer from the Minister for Those five were to be Edmonton, Nambour, Mines saying that the concessions were in Whitsunday—which is Cannonvale—Miles and place, yet the Minister for Families who now Acacia Ridge. administers that particular concession was not agreeing to it. I am delighted to see that, I went ahead with the construction of during the Estimates, the Minister for Families those five neighbourhood centres. When I saw 2714 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 another $2.6m in this budget, I asked, "Where Mr MULHERIN (Mackay—ALP) are the next five centres to go?" But now I find (12.24 p.m.): In speaking to the report of that that money is for the original five centres. Estimates Committee E, I would like to thank So in honesty, there are not 10 the Deputy Chair and member for Burnett, neighbourhood centres or multipurpose Doug Slack, the committee, Ministers and their centres; there are only five, which are the departmental officers for their cooperation and original 1996 multipurpose centres. We chose contributions during the Estimates process. I five from the original 10, but now those extra would also like to commend the staff of the five will not be built. So those communities will committee secretariat—Mr Chris Garvey, the miss out on their centres. research director; Mr Andrew Timperley, research officer; and Ms Mandy Elcome, I also ask the Minister to make a definite executive assistant—Mr Alan Watson, the staff decision about the Beaudesert respite centre, of Hansard and the parliamentary attendants which is to be located at Jimboomba. People for their valuable support and assistance wrote on 21 July asking about definite during the Estimates process. progress on this particular centre. To this date—three months later—the Minister has not The committee examined the budget of advised the Beaudesert people whether this Queensland Health and the Department of respite centre, which was decided upon in Mines and Energy. The Department of Mines 1997, would go ahead. I know it has been a and Energy Consolidated Fund budget for political game. I know that, unfortunately, the 1998-1999 is $160.6m, an increase of $5m then deputy director-general, Dr Peter over the 1997-1998 budget. During 1998-1999 Botsman, passed away when he was the department will continue to promote gas, negotiating all of this and the Challinor Centre. mineral and petroleum exploration using But let me say to the Minister: in negotiating modern geological techniques, improved data for people to come out of the Challinor Centre extraction and enhancement, and imaging of and go into the community, there is a need for exploration reports. During this financial year, respite in the Beaudesert area. the department will rehabilitate abandoned mine sites at Horn Island, Gympie and Certainly there were discussions with the Charters Towers, and improve the Beaudesert Shire Council about whether one environmental performances of the mining of those particular centres, which are now industry. being built at Loganlea, could be built at Beaudesert. In the discussions about whether In the area of mine safety, the people with disabilities could come into the department will employ an additional eight Beaudesert area, it was discussed that there inspectors to undertake inspections and safety was a need for respite. So it was agreed to audits within the industry. The employment of build a respite centre. In fact, in letters from these additional eight inspectors will be the Minister—me at that time—it was actually welcomed by the industry, especially in the agreed that $400,000 was allocated for that area of coalmining as it has the highest centre. It has now been through Project accident frequency rate of any industry in Services. Tenders have been called. Money Australia. Available statistics show that the has been allocated and money has been used coalmining industry in Queensland accounted in Project Services. But still the Minister will not for more accidents and fatalities than the say whether she agrees to go ahead with the remainder of the mining industry within recent respite centre. People with disabilities have times. In 1996-1997 there were 335 accidents been transferred to Beaudesert to use that and three fatalities in underground coalmines respite centre. The post-school options and 237 accidents and fatalities on surface program has also been placed there. coalmines in Queensland. This level of injuries and fatalities is unacceptable. It causes Time expired. economic loss and grief to the families of workers who are employed in the industry. Report adopted. The electricity industry will expend $820.7m on capital works, including the Estimates Committee E expansion of the Callide and Mica Creek Power Stations as well as enhancing the Report transmission system from central Queensland The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr to southern Queensland, which will reinforce Mickel): Order! The question is— electricity supply to Brisbane. The Minister for Mines and Energy inherited from the coalition "That the report of Estimates an industry in a mess which has led to load Committee E be adopted." shedding due to plant failure and the 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2715 cancellation of the Eastlink transmission line, acclaimed Budget for the 1998-99 fiscal year. which would have provided additional electricity It was so good that in most instances the supply to Queensland. The Minister outlined current minority Labor Government has his strategies in the short, medium and long reproduced it. term to reform the industry so that the State One has to wonder why it took the Beattie has a competitive but reliable supply of administration three entire months to plagiarise electricity for industrial, business and domestic the coalition's Budget—a three-month Budget consumers. I commend the Minister for his freeze of huge proportions. The Budget was determination to make the Queensland not plagiarised in its entirety. In actual fact, electricity industry the leader in this country. during those three months the minority Labor I now turn to the Queensland Health Government made some significant and highly budget for 1998-99 of $3.722 billion, which is questionable changes to the coalition Budget. an increase of $288.4m on the 1997-98 Mines and Energy is one portfolio in which the budget. The key priorities for Health include Minister and his Cabinet colleagues fiddled continuing to reduce elective surgery waiting with the books, and the Estimates process times, improving health service infrastructure, enable this fiddling to be highlighted. enhancing mental health services and Undoubtedly the most questionable maintaining the level and quality of services in change uncovered by the coalition was the the face of reductions in Commonwealth Beattie administration's interference in the funding. The abolition of the former Health electricity market. A ministerial direction issued Minister's capital charge—or the Horan tax—on jointly by the Minister and the Treasurer was capital works has been welcomed throughout aimed at slowing down the Callide C project in Queensland. This insidious tax would have favour of other projects. In fact, the seen a reduction in health services across committee's discussion on Callide C, the Queensland. In Mackay, this tax would have presentation of the budget forecasts for this meant that $1m a year would have been project and the responses to the questions ripped from the budget of the District Health taken on notice during the Estimates led the Service, affecting service delivery to the people coalition members to the conclusion that the of the Mackay region. Capital works spending Minister sought to mislead the committee as to this financial year will provide some 9,000 full- the Government's actions and intentions time equivalent jobs within the building and towards this project. There has been such construction industry. inconsistency between the Budget papers, Mr The Minister demonstrated throughout Jardine's response and the replies to the the Estimates process that she was on top of questions on notice that non-Government her portfolio and, unlike the former Minister, members can have no faith in the veracity of she has brought down a budget in which the this budget. commitments are fully funded and do not Further, the Minister could not recall burden our public hospitals and public health issuing the directive to CS Energy and could system. The Minister has a huge task ahead not give a definitive answer as to whether he of her: to clean up the mess left by her had issued a directive at all. In fact he still predecessor, the member for Toowoomba cannot, and nor can the Treasurer. Given the South. requirements of the Government Owned The statement of reservation by the Corporations Act 1993 and the significance coalition members of the committee was a normally associated with a ministerial directive, bitter personal attack on the Minister for Mines this reply was and is extraordinary. and Energy and the Minister for Health, who The folly of the ALP Government's claim have demonstrated their knowledge of their that it would reamalgamate the electricity portfolios and a vision for the future. The industry has also been revealed. The Minister coalition offered no positive alternatives to the claimed to support both the establishment of a Government's agenda. I commend the report competitive electricity market and the to the Chamber. reamalgamation of the industry. He cannot Mr MITCHELL (Charters Towers—NPA) have it both ways, and the ACCC has recently (12.29 p.m.): I rise to address the report of advised that the ALP's claims have now been Estimates Committee E, particularly the exposed as the cheap political stunt they section of Estimates devoted to the 1998-99 always have been. The Minister misled the budget for the Department of Mines and committee by implying that the coalition Energy. All members of this Chamber should supported the closure of district departmental agree that the former Borbidge Government offices, and the budget documents contained did indeed produce an excellent and widely no detailed costings of the relocation of the 2716 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 regional departmental office from Townsville to I note some of the claims made by the Mount Isa. shadow Minister. I inform the shadow Minister During the Estimates hearing it was also that, when in Government, his Minister and his made plainly obvious that the minority Labor Premier had a stance on the fly-in, fly-out Government is taking little if any action to practice. That was that the decisions of the progress the Century Zinc project, despite mining companies were commercial decisions significant delays in relation to the provision of and as such the Government had no role, nor power and restricted access to the mine site did it propose to take any role in trying to because of delays over the construction of the change the views of the mining community. In Gregory River bridge. The minority Labor fact, the former Minister made a comment that Government's Budget has denied the people the days of the Mount Isas and the Dysarts of of the Boulia and Barcoo Shires access to the this world are over—they have gone; they are remote area electricity supply trial. $5m was finished. provided in the Borbidge Government's I inform the House today that a task force Budget. An inadequate $1m has now been will be established. I will be making some provided for the trial. There has been no announcements regarding this issue in Mount planning as to exactly what the trial will involve Isa on Sunday or Monday. I am sure the and where it will be used. shadow Minister will come out in a blaze of It has also become apparent that there glory and support the initiatives of this has been no meaningful contact with the Government. Federal Government at any level by the I refer again to the comments of the Department of Mines and Energy or the fly-in, shadow Minister about the Boulia scheme. I fly-out task force. Given the importance of have had the opportunity on two occasions taxation policy to the fly-in, fly-out practice, the this week to rebut comments made by the lack of contact indicates that the task force will shadow Minister. I put the facts on the table. operate in isolation, limiting the Government's The shadow Minister and some of his ability to address the problems associated with colleagues have been requesting that the $5m the fly-in, fly-out policy. the former Government had in its proposed I thank my committee colleagues and the Budget should have remained and that I chairman, the member for Mackay. I thank the should have continued the scheme. Minister and all the public servants. There was There are 1,700 properties in Queensland a good roll-up of public servants in the areas of which should qualify for some assistance with Mines and Energy and Health. I thank the staff regard to grid power. I have been getting of the parliamentary committee office, who constant requests from Boulia and Barcoo. I ably assisted the committee and put the report had a meeting yesterday with the Mayor and together, and all those who contributed to the the chief executive officer of Boulia Shire. They Estimates hearing. understood the situation. The taxpayer Hon. T. McGRADY (Mount Isa—ALP) contribution towards such a scheme would be (Minister for Mines and Energy and Minister $94m. The previous Minister placed $5m in Assisting the Deputy Premier on Regional the coalition's Budget. There was nothing in Development) (12.34 p.m.): I am pleased to recurrent funding. be able to participate in the debate this When I asked the department, "What is afternoon. I will mention a couple of issues this $5m?", the response was, "Tom made raised during the Estimates process. some sort of a promise." I said, "What's Some criticism was levelled at me for happening next year? What do I do with $5m being slow in setting up the fly-in, fly-out task when the scheme is going to cost $94m?" We force and for the fact that we had not involved have left $1m there. We have set up an Office the Federal Government. In Opposition I was of Sustainable Energy. If people in this forever and constantly calling upon the former Parliament think that I am going to start Minister and the former Government to do playing games or lead the 1,700 potential something about the mining industry and to customers up the garden path by making see what we could do to get the key players in these promises, they are wrong. I do not work this industry together to work out some that way. strategy to defend the industry against the This is one of the things the new Office of downturn in the Asian economy. That Minister Sustainable Energy will look at. The people out and that Government refused on every single there in voter land are sick and tired of the slick occasion. Within weeks of the Beattie Labor politicians who promise the earth five weeks Government coming to office, a task force was before election day and then say that, when convened in Moranbah. the figures are studied, there are no dollars in 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2717 the bin. There was to have been $5m this expenditure. This Labor Party Government is year, nothing next year and nothing the year locking itself into a position whereby, at some after. time in the future, it will probably have to think Time expired. seriously about selling additional assets. In addition to what the former Government was Mr SLACK (Burnett—NPA) (12.40 p.m.): going to privatise in the marketplace, this In relation to the Mines and Energy portfolio, I Government is proposing to sell off more of wish to refer to some points that were made by Suncorp-Metway than we had proposed to the Minister during this debate on the sell. That will inject more funds into the system. Estimates committee's report. One aspect that The Government is also proposing to sell the I found very disturbing was the Minister's Government's shareholding in the Bank of admission of a lack of policy in relation to Queensland in the not-too-distant future. incentives for the provision of power in this State. The Minister referred to that again this There is an inconsistency in all this. I have morning when he answered a question about read in the newspapers that the Government major project development in this State. If the is selling down all the shares of Suncorp- Government is to maintain that line without Metway. It defends that on the basis that it is any policy in this direction, obviously that is not going to make any difference to Suncorp- going to throw uncertainty on major projects for Metway's headquarters—wherever they may power generation within this State. be. Yet I understand that the Government is going to retain 10% to 15% of the Bank of I ask the Government to address this Queensland because it wants its headquarters problem as a matter of urgency, because we to stay here. So there is definitely a degree of cannot have a situation in which the success hypocrisy in the arguments that are being of a proposal—whether or not the Government advanced. is going to support it—will depend on who comes through the door and what proposition At the end of the day, when the is put forward. In a commercial market where Government's private investments are being would that leave the individual private sold to private industry, at some time in the companies which will be providing the power future this Government will be looking for the for this State in the future? There is no doubt money to maintain the level of expenditure in my mind that the Minister has left in the that is going to result from the sale of those minds of power generating companies a Government assets. I would like to hear from position of uncertainty for the future which the Minister where that money is going to needs to be addressed. come from in the future because, to me, that is inconsistent with the Government's Obviously, jobs and reliable power commitment not to privatise. At the end of the supplies in this State are interdependent; jobs day, it cannot have the extra services or the are dependent upon industry developing, and extra capital expenditure, and it cannot that is dependent upon reliable power and the maintain them, without increasing taxes or provision of power at a reasonable cost. further privatisation. Unfortunately, under the Goss Government we started to lag behind the other States in Time expired. relation to the cost of power to industry. That Mr PEARCE (Fitzroy—ALP) (12.44 p.m.): I needs to be urgently addressed by this appreciate the opportunity to take part in this Government. debate on the report of Estimates Another point that the Minister raised at Committee E, which scrutinised the Ministerial the Estimates committee hearing related to Portfolio Statements of the Department of the possible sale of the power generating Mines and Energy and the Department of providers within this State. The Minister made Health. In the few minutes allocated to me I allegations that the previous Government was will concentrate on matters relevant to the thinking of selling AUSTA and the power Department of Mines and Energy and, in generating providers. I make the point that we particular, the coal industry. had not discussed that in Cabinet. We did not The department has put considerable select a chairman of a committee with that in resources into the preparation of new mind. We looked for the independent provision legislation that will repeal the current Coal of advice to our Cabinet and to ourselves on Mining Act. The Minister has been working the future of the industry in this State. virtually nonstop with coal employers and The Budget brought down by this employee representatives in an effort to reach Government contains an increase in the an agreement satisfactory to all parties on the provision for capital expenditure and an new coalmining health and safety legislation. increase in some areas of recurrent Given my experience in the coal industry and 2718 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 my ongoing close association with is of the highest standard, but the team can mineworkers and their families, I am only perform to its expectation if it has the committed—in fact, you might say that I am support of those who manage it. I respectfully passionate about it—to ensuring that this urge the Minister to closely monitor the Parliament does everything in its power, as the performance of the board of management and legislator in this State, to provide the legislative give consideration to how we might be able to framework that delivers a safer and healthier get employee representatives on that board. work environment for mineworkers. The We should not forget for one minute— Minister has been patient. He has been and I pray that it never happens—that if we do understanding and, where necessary, he has have an incident of a serious nature and the remained focused and strongly committed to rescue brigade is incapable of doing its job achieving the best outcome for both the because of failures by management, it will be industry's employers and its employees. I am the Government that will stand condemned. I looking forward to the introduction of the new know how I felt after the Moura No. 2 health and safety legislation into this place. underground mine disaster of 7 August 1994, Personally, I have concerns about self- and I have to tell members that I do not want regulation, as it places the responsibilities of to go through that again. health and safety in the hands of those who, I turn now to health, which has been an too often, put production and profits ahead of issue in central Queensland, particularly a committed health and safety regime. I mental health. This is one of the issues that acknowledge that, in today's world, the current have been driving a mental health lobby group Coal Mining Act is too prescriptive, and that in that particular area. We welcome the extra there is a real need for a more simplistic $29m in the Labor State Budget that will be approach to the writing of law for the operation injected into mental health services. It should and functioning of our most important export be noted that this represents the biggest industry. However, the health and safety of our funding increase in the history of mental mineworkers must remain at the forefront of health. It means that we will be spending more any of the changes to the legislative structure. than $270m on mental health services in We, as a Parliament, should never forget that Queensland in 1998-99. That represents a the current Coal Mining Act is written in the 16% increase on the recurrent budget that was blood of dead and injured mineworkers. And brought down by the coalition in May. we, as elected members and representatives of the people, must take every precaution to One in five Queenslanders will experience ensure that we do not set the scene for future a mental illness or serious mental health disasters in our mines. problem at least once in their lives. People with mental health problems, their friends and I note that the Department of Mines and families are a significant and long-neglected Energy no longer has a role in the group of people who are getting a better deal administration and management of at last. The money allocated by Labor will Queensland's Mines Rescue Brigades. The mean 200 extra mental health experts, Queensland Mines Rescue Service is now a including four staff for a new stand-alone private company funded under the principles facility at Emerald, which will service central of user pays by the Queensland coal producers. I was most concerned when the Queensland, including the Fitzroy electorate. former Government—now in Opposition— Time expired. introduced and passed the legislation which Mr SEENEY (Callide—NPA) (12.50 p.m.): allowed for the restructuring of the service. I appreciate the opportunity to comment on Failure by the then Government to include this Budget Estimates committee report. The union representatives on the board of Estimates committee hearing illustrated management was the first step towards a beyond any doubt to me the laughable decline in the quality of service, and it has put incompetence of the Minister for Mines and at risk the ability of the Mines Rescue Brigade Energy, the only Minister who has apologised to continue to provide an effective rescue in advance for his own failings. His handling of service. the Callide C project has destroyed forever any I have no confidence in the board of credibility he may have had. It is interesting management. They are employer friendly, that, in his comments on the Estimates dismissive of the needs of rescue brigade committee hearings a few moments ago, he members and are lacking in a genuine made no mention of Callide C. Is that any commitment to maintaining an effective and wonder? The saga that has developed around efficient Mines Rescue Service. The quality Callide C has exposed the total incompetence and commitment of rescue brigade members of this Minister. Despite the obvious 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2719 importance of this project to the future power for the project. So the figure went from $128m supplies of this State, there can be no doubt to $27.9m to about $70m. What incredibly from the Estimates committee hearings that inept financial management for what was the this Government and this Minister in particular biggest capital works project within the tried twice—not once, but twice—to stop that Minister's field of responsibility! With such project. inconsistency, the "Minister for Apologising in At the same time as he was apologising Advance" demonstrated beyond doubt his in advance for power blackouts that he knew own incompetence. He did not have a clue were coming, he was desperately trying to stop what was going on and he still does not. a project that he knew would provide cheap, Callide C is a very important project to the reliable supplies of electricity for this State. Two Queensland power supply, but it is even more ministerial inquiries—one of which Mr McGrady important to the community of Biloela and told the Estimates hearing he could not central Queensland. It represents 1,000 recall—were ordered to try to find a way to construction jobs in a relatively small rural break the contracts that had been entered into community and ongoing employment for by the coalition Government. Two ministerial operators and coalminers. Naturally, as the attempts were made to kill a project that local member I took a close interest in the represented 1,000 construction jobs for my budgeted expenditure for this project, and electorate and 900 megawatts of electricity for other members in this Chamber would have Queensland. done the same had that project been in their electorate. Failing in what was a desperate attempt to give the Chevron gas project an unfair and With his constantly changing positions on unjust advantage, it became obvious from the this matter, with his conflicting statements and Budget figures that the strategy became one his totally unsustainable logic, the "Minister for of delaying the project by denying funds this Apologising in Advance" demonstrated for all financial year. The figure allocated to Callide C to see his total inability to handle this most was $27.9m. That figure, despite the Minister's important project and his total lack of control of denials, is written on page 50 of the Capital his portfolio. It is a portfolio that is too Outlays Budget Paper No. 3. That is some important to this State to be left in the hands $100m less than the amount identified in the of such demonstrated incompetence. An coalition Budget brought down in May. Almost apology in advance is no substitute for a unbelievably, the "Minister for Apologising in reliable, affordable power supply. An apology Advance" stupidly tried to deny that Budget in advance is no substitute for performance. cut. When faced with the evidence of his own Mr McGrady should be replaced. figures, he adopted the absurd position that Hon. K. W. HAYWARD (Kallangur—ALP) the project would proceed this year anyway, (12.55 p.m.): It is certainly a great pleasure to but the payment schedules had been speak this afternoon in this debate on the renegotiated until next year. No doubt, that report of Estimates Committee E. I will made many of the contractors involved in the concentrate my remarks on the Mines and project somewhat nervous. They were being Energy section of Estimates Committee E. I told that they were going to do the work this take this opportunity to congratulate the year and not get paid until next year. The committee Chair, Mr Mulherin, on the work that stupidity of that position quickly became he undertook during and after Estimates apparent even to the "Minister for Apologising Committee E to ensure that the reports and in Advance". A new story was concocted. The matters related to Estimates Committee E Estimates committee was told that the $27.9m were prepared in order. was just an indication. $27.9m sounds pretty This afternoon, while dealing with the precise to me and to most of us, but we were Mines and Energy portfolio, I will concentrate told that it was just an indication and did not particularly on mining exploration. Exploration represent the total to be spent on Callide C is what drives the mining industry. Exploration from this Budget. The figure of $27.9m was activity has associated with it high costs and, published in the capital expenditure of course, high risks. In many ways, the level documents, but did not represent the amount of exploration activity is the measure of to be spent! That was an equally absurd investor confidence, the measure of what the position and just as quickly became market thinks and what investors think about unsustainable and was abandoned by the mining in their State or area. I congratulate the "Minister for Apologising in Advance". Minister on the moneys that have been set Then the figure changed again. Mr aside for the Geological Survey subprogram, Jardine from Powerlink told the Estimates which has been allocated $5.5m, and the committee that $70m was the figure required Resource Development subprogram, which 2720 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 has an allocation of $11.344m. The aim of Sitting suspended from 1 p.m. to those two items is to increase exploration 2.30 p.m. activities in Queensland, to ensure that Mr JOHNSON (Gregory—NPA) explorers know that the Government of (2.30 p.m.): It gives me pleasure to join in the Queensland is concerned and able to help debate on the report of Estimates Committee them in their exploration activities. E. In relation to the Health Estimates, I Published expenditure data shows that endorse the comments that the member for exploration expenditure has been falling in this Fitzroy made about the mental health facility at State over the past couple of years. There the Emerald Hospital. I pay tribute to the have been delays in the processing of former Health Minister, Mike Horan, for the exploration permits. It has been suggested great work that he did in putting together that that a political agenda was involved in those hospital. After six Labor Budgets, in the two delays. The previous Government blamed the and a quarter years of the coalition Wik decision and native title issues for those Government, we saw that hospital in Emerald delays. put in place. I congratulate Mike Horan on that One of the major factors over which none effort. I also make mention of the support that of us has any real control is the simple fact Jimmy Pearce, the member for Fitzroy, gave that mineral commodity prices have been low me in lobbying for that mental health facility at over the past couple of years. We read about the Emerald Hospital. that every day. There may be some evidence However, I want to speak to the Estimates that Australian exploration trends are changing of the Minerals and Energy portfolio. Just this because capital is becoming much more week in this Chamber I asked the Minister mobile. It is prepared to travel overseas. As about power in western Queensland. I refer to Governments establish themselves as stable, the Barcoo and Boulia Shires. The Minister it is prepared to move into those areas. A lot of made mention of $5m being in the factors are involved in that, including the Borbidge/Sheldon Budget that was not signed increased political and economic stability that off. There is $1m in this Budget for that same may exist in other places and policies that are program. Last Tuesday, in answer to my introduced by Governments that reduce the question in this place, the Minister said that he investment risk that is involved in exploration. has put in place an Office of Sustainable I congratulate the Minister and the Energy, which will look at putting power into department for putting in place the funds for rural and remote Queensland. That is an the Geological Survey subprogram and the absolute waste of money: $10m to again Resource Development subprogram. That will create more Public Service jobs when we could give confidence to the industry. It is an industry be giving power to people in rural and remote that functions on confidence. In many ways, it Queensland who only ever dream of it. is an industry that functions on perceptions. If There are people in the cities throughout it is perceived that the Government wants to the length and breadth of this State who take help and is putting in place funds to ensure power for granted. This morning, a young that programs are undertaken to assist in the mother and I met with the Premier's exploration for minerals, then exploration Parliamentary Secretary, Mr Nuttall. I am very money will follow to do that. thankful to him for giving us his time. That What is required is an innovative strategy. young mother has three little boys aged That is what Minister McGrady and the between five and one. She referred to one Department of Mines and Energy are putting occasion when her husband was away, all in place. In the Geological Survey subprogram, three kids were sick at the one time and in the when data is prepared, it is then made middle of the night, with no generator going, available to prospective explorers. That gives she was trying to clean up vomit and what explorers the opportunity to target scarce have you with a torch. These are the money for exploration activities and, in circumstances under which these people live. particular, the minerals they want to explore. I say to members opposite that they All members should be aware that, if we do should show some compassion and show not have any mineral exploration, we will not some understanding of the cause. The have growth in minerals and energy Minister talks about $93m. The former Goss development. It is a very competitive field both Labor Government should never have within Australia and outside Australia. Capital is corporatised the power industry in this State much more mobile. We need to have a and instead got on with the job of putting Government that encourages activity. power in some of these places. We should Time expired. forget about the dollar cost; we should think of 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2721 the human cost. We should show some role as a non-Government member on an compassion and give these people in rural Estimates committee with my now Cabinet areas the quality of life that they deserve. colleagues the Minister for Families, Youth and In relation to my own electorate, I Community Care and the Minister for congratulate Pacific Coal on its purchase of Aboriginal and Islander Affairs. Arco's share of the Gordonstone mine. I encourage all members of this Chamber Yesterday, Pacific Coal purchased its 80% and the media to compare the two statements share. I salute Pacific Coal/Rio Tinto. It is of reservations. The one that is now before this fantastic news to know that that mine is going Chamber is little more than a petty, thinly to be fully operational again by mid next year. disguised attempt to whitewash the dismal The work force, which is currently 450, will be performance of the member for Toowoomba taken up to some 800 when they get into full South—"Headlines" Horan—as a policy maker swing with all of their other operations, such as and administrator. If the Opposition's greatest Hail Creek, coming on stream, too. I certainly concern is that this Government has funded wish Pacific Coal, in joint venture with Mitsui many of "Headlines" Horan's unfunded and MLC, the best of luck with Gordonstone. It commitments, then that is a sad indictment on is going to be fantastic to again get that great the Opposition working within the Westminster mine working and making Emerald, which is system. So much for Opposition scrutiny! located in my electorate and which is a dormitory town for those coalmines, again I will point out the key elements of Health functional for the miners and their families. that those members opposite have never wanted to hear and never wanted to be made I hope and trust that the unions show public. This Minister's commitments are fully some understanding and sense in their funded and this Minister will not be burdening negotiations with the new owners. At the end our health system with a Horan hospital tax. of the day, the issue is productivity and Our massive boost to mental health is fully maintaining a livelihood for the miners and funded. The ads for the extra 200 staff started their families. If the operation is kept going, the appearing in black and white in today's shareholders will be happy—everybody is Courier-Mail. Our massive capital works going to be happy. There will be jobs, and that program is fully funded without a Horan is what it is all about. hospital tax. Almost 10,000 jobs in I also want to refer to the corporatisation construction and health service delivery are of the power industry. I touched on this matter fully funded. More than $18m has been a while ago. The other thing that the Labor allocated for extra elective surgery and other Government signed off on—and in recent measures to cut public hospital waiting lists. An months members opposite have been very amount of $14m in recurrent funding has been vocal in slamming it—is the National allocated for extra surgery, increasing to Competition Policy. I say to those members almost $18m next year—not just "Headline" opposite to be very, very careful about how Horan's one-off, pre-election bucket of money. they manage this regime from here on in, There has been a 3.2% increase to hospital because this side of the Chamber will not recurrent budgets instead of a 0.1% increase support it in any way, shape or form. We have across all of Queensland—a measly $2m. We seen exactly how the National Competition gave more than that to the Gold Coast Policy has destroyed rural and remote Hospital and the Nambour Hospital to meet Queensland, not only in the area of main their needs. The former Government wanted roads, for which I was Minister, but also in the to allocate $2m across all of Queensland. It power industry. I believe that we have to see in said that was all the increases that the this State the decorporatisation of these public hospitals should get and kept loading extra utilities so that the Government can take work onto them. Unlike "Headline" Horan's control and give the people the benefits that commitments, all of this Government's they deserve to receive, whether it is power or commitments are fully funded. whatever else. With regard to point 2.1 of the statement Time expired. of reservations by non-Government members, Hon. W. M. EDMOND (Mount Coot-tha— clearly the member for Maroochydore is ALP) (Minister for Health) (2.35 p.m.): I thank confused about the Standing Orders. The the chairman of the committee and all the answers were provided well within the time limit members for their participation in Estimates specified. If she had simply picked up the Committee E. I acknowledge the statement of phone and called the secretary of the reservations by the non-Government members committee, she would have been able to find of the committee. Last year, I filled a similar out. I have checked that and it has been 2722 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 proved. The member was either confused or that they were running so late that the too lazy to lift up the phone to call. planning had not been done, as it had not In relation to point 2.2, I stand by my been done in Nambour. comments about unfunded commitments, Time expired. although I will concede—and I am quite happy Miss SIMPSON (Maroochydore—NPA) to concede—that there was a mistake made (2.40 p.m.): I am very disappointed with the on the issue of the unfunded commitment to rubbery answers and lack of detail provided by provide a bus for the Charleville 60 and Better the Health Minister in regard to the Budget. Program. In fact, this occurred at Charters Today in Parliament, Health Minister Wendy Towers. I was aware of the one at Charters Edmond has been caught out. She has been Towers; I had already made reference to it. forced to admit that her claims of a 36,000 However, when I saw another reference to hidden elective surgery list are false and Charleville in my briefing notes from the misleading. The Minister has artificially inflated department, I thought that this was just elective surgery waiting lists by including another one. The former Minister had patients with mental illnesses, skin rashes and promised so many around the State, it was diabetes. The fact is that many of those another one. I readily admit that that was a people do not require surgery and will never be mistake. I am surprised that the previous placed on an elective surgery waiting list. I Minister has failed to pass on his list of have also received advice from medical staff commitments and briefing material to his that many of those patients will wait less than colleague and that she has had to rely so 30 days to see a specialist. heavily on the information that I gathered in Since releasing elective surgery figures in Opposition and as Minister. July this year, Ms Edmond has claimed that I am glad that Opposition members again elective surgery waiting lists will increase under raised the matter of the Robina and Noosa Labor. It is an absolute disgrace that Health hospitals, because this is one of the great all- Minister Edmond has used patients with time health scandals that "Headlines" Horan diabetes and mental illnesses to increase pulled off. Queensland now has a $909m debt elective surgery lists. Next the Health Minister to buy public health services from private will remove all of the mental health and hospitals—not from public hospitals, but from medical patients from the waiting lists and will private hospitals, one of which is a profit- claim that they have had their operations! Ms making hospital—on the Gold Coast and Edmond must come clean and release the Sunshine Coast for the next 20 years. That will details of where the 36,000 patients are lock in all the growth funds for the next 20 located, what specialities they include and how years. As to the appointment of Allen Allen long they have been waiting. and Hemsley, a check of the Hansard yet After making claims about a hidden again shows the untruth of the Opposition elective surgery waiting list, the Minister is now member's statement. Judging by their trying to claim that she does not have a overreaction, someone must be feeling a little departmental report to back up her own sensitive on this issue. I wonder who it could figures. How rubbery can she get? She has be. been asked to table it and she has refused. I beg to differ with paragraph 2.4, which She cannot back up the statements that she states that the previous Minister always makes in the media through her press provided health service budgets in answer to releases. my questions. There is no way that that To take another example—the district happened. He provided some to the dorothy health reports—we do not know how much has dixers, but the answers that he gave me were been spent in all of the districts because the for the Budget of the year before. Those Minister has not had the accountability or the answers were one year out of date. He never credibility to table that information in this gave me budgets for anything that was Parliament. At no time did she respond to the current. When we got the information, it was committee's request for that information. She so out of date that it did not matter, because I has treated it with contempt. No details have already had it. been released about the actual amounts that Paragraph 2.5 refers to capital works and, are being spent in all of the districts in as I have done several times already, I will try Queensland. The Minister has refused to do to explain this very slowly and carefully to the that. member for Maroochydore. The changes and At the end of day, the people want to see the allocations to projects in the 1998-99 year this Minister getting on with the job of were for a range of reasons, including the fact managing the health system, rather than 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2723 making excuses as to why waiting lists will get Turning to the situation with the Robina worse under her reign. During the Estimates and Noosa hospitals, one would think that an hearing, the Health Minister said that she was organisation such as the Mater Hospital, which pleased to see that waiting lists were going to is working under contract to Queensland grow. That is staggering. What sort of a Health Health, must have been doing something right Minister will say that he or she is pleased to because it is exactly the same situation: they see waiting lists about to grow? It is about time have been delivering quality health care with that the Minister set some targets and started public hospital beds to the public, but through planning, rather than looking for excuses as to a non-Government provider. That is what we why she is not putting any effort into improving had intended with the Noosa and Robina the situation with waiting lists. hospitals. Under the coalition Government, Time expired. Queensland went from having the worst waiting times in Australia to the best waiting Mr MICKEL (Logan—ALP) (2.47 p.m.): I times for Category 1 and Category 2 surgery, will say one thing about the member for that is, urgent and semi-urgent surgery. The Maroochydore: she is the only one capable of real number of people receiving surgery making the member for Toowoomba South increased, with something like an extra 13,000 look good. I will pick up on a couple of things people receiving their operations. However, that the honourable member said. She said that does not mean that the task is over. that the Minister had been caught out. My Under the coalition, the Surgery on Time attention has been drawn to the Gold Coast Program was to be expanded to further Sun of Wednesday, 14 October, and the hospitals and we had targets for reducing headline "Caught Out". What has been caught waiting times for Category 3 surgery—non- out? The fact that no funds were committed to urgent surgery. However, this Minister has not the Robina hospital! The member for announced any targets. She has only made Maroochydore also said that there was going excuses and, further, she has rubbed salt into to be a slowdown on the Sunshine Coast. the wounds of the people who are waiting Where has she been for the last five years? legitimately to get into hospitals, particularly for Under the coalition, the Nambour Hospital was Category 3 surgery, by telling them that she is underfunded consistently and it had some of pleased to see that waiting lists are going to the worst waiting lists, yet the Noosa hospital is grow. That is just not acceptable to the coming on stream with no recurrent funding. In Opposition. actual fact, the shortfall for that hospital runs to several hundreds of millions of dollars over 20 The Beattie Government claimed that it years. Almost $900m worth of commitments was going to hurry up capital works, but we were not funded. In fact, according to one have seen a slowing down of capital works in report, those two hospitals alone will account the hospital redevelopment program. for all of the growth funding. The next time that Approximately $40m less is being spent in the coalition members go to an election and want Brisbane area alone. Vindictiveness came to to promise something, they should remember the fore when the Government slashed about that $900m worth of their promises are sitting $10m from this year's capital works programs out there. They have to get their heads around on the Sunshine Coast. In Cairns—and this is that if they want to get around waiting lists. interesting—the Minister claimed that there was a $17.9m increase in funding for the The member for Toowoomba South did Cairns Base Hospital redevelopment, but not mention that his electorate had some of strangely enough she forgot to include that in the worst waiting lists in the State, and that the Budget papers under the total estimated was when he was the Health Minister! If he cost of the redevelopment, which was could not fix it when he was the Health increased by only $4.6m. That was the only Minister, how will he get on now that there is a hospital redevelopment program in the capital bit of equity in the system? Even when he was works list where the Minister did not outline the the Health Minister, the member could not get full cost of the project. In fact, according to the it right for his own hospitals. document, the funding was only increased by Something that is near and dear to my about $4.5m. That is another example that heart on the subject of underfunding is the shows that the Minister is not up to the task. Logan Hospital. According to the Budget She cannot get it right on capital works. She is figures provided under the coalition, Stage 4 of slowing down redevelopment programs in the Logan Hospital is way behind schedule. Brisbane and telling the people that she is That is a disgrace. pleased that they will have to wait longer for surgery. Mr Robertson interjected. 2724 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998

Mr MICKEL: I know that the member for marrow transplantation unit for Townsville, in Sunnybank thinks it is a disgrace, too, respect of which $680,000 was missing; the because many of his constituents use that private hospital public patient contract for hospital. It was not just the Logan Hospital that Crows Nest was to cost a quarter of a million was left behind; the whole Logan/Beaudesert dollars, but no funds were available. The same area has been left behind. I speak up for the thing applies with respect to the quarter of a member for Beaudesert, because I am very million dollars promised for Killarney. $3.2m is confident that he is feeling ashamed of the missing for the Cairns Base Hospital fact that the Beaudesert hospital was left way redevelopment. In respect of education behind in the coalition's Capital Works facilities in Cairns, almost $1.8m worth of Program. I hope that the Minister is listening, commitments were unfunded. because the people of Logan want to see some action on the Logan Hospital. We want Time expired. to see exactly the same standard of hospital Mr HORAN (Toowoomba South—NPA) as the one that I very proudly opened in (Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (2.53 p.m.): Toowoomba. The most amazing feature of this Estimates Mrs Edmond interjected. process has been the admission by the Health Minister that she is pleased that waiting lists Mr MICKEL: I want not only one car park, will go up. In two and a quarter years under but transport access similar to what they have the previous coalition Government we did the in Toowoomba. It was a very great pleasure to amazing: we took the waiting lists in open that hospital with the member for Queensland from being the worst in Australia Toowoomba South. I think he did a good job to being the best. on that hospital, even if he did not do a good job on the waiting lists. There was absolutely no data, information I express my disappointment at the fact or planning. We put in place a plan and that there is $200m worth of unfunded funded it and we performed some 13,000 commitments from the election. No funds have extra operations in two years. We took been provided for the Jimboomba community Category 1 from having 49% long waits, the health centre. Time and again the coalition worst in Australia, to less than 5%, which was promised that, but no funds were provided. the target that we set. Before we left Government, we took Category 2 from having I remember also that before the 1995 some 44% long waits, the worst in Australia, election the member for Toowoomba South down to 9% or 10%, and we were on track to and the member for Albert were depicted in a meet our 5% target in the following month. photo with the new Coomera hospital. The Coomera hospital consisted of nothing more What have we seen from this embattled than a shovel and a bit of dirt! In common with Health Minister? All we have seen her do is the shovel, the hospital has never been seen stand up and say, "I am pleased that waiting since. lists are going to go up." Already we have seen the fraud in relation to the so-called Mrs Edmond: It sounds like the 36,000 people on the outpatients list. Many of Jimboomba health centre. those people are simply people with mental Mr MICKEL: It may sound like the health problems or medical problems such as Jimboomba health centre. skin rashes and so forth who want to see a In Logan we want decent, funded health doctor as an outpatient. That has nothing to services. So many promises have been made do with Surgery on Time. by the coalition. As I said, it gave $200m worth One of the great achievements of this of unfunded commitments. My good friend the coalition Government in its two and a quarter member for Toowoomba South, who very years was the fact that it found $1.2 billion to kindly put on the Carnival of Flowers for me fund the unfunded capital works programs of when I was up there, had a horrible trait: he Queensland Health. When we left was "Dr Yes" when it came to anybody who Government, some 125 projects across the wanted a commitment, but he provided no length and breadth of this State, from school funds. He cannot explain that away. community health centres to major hospitals, A few of the facilities that were promised such as the RBH and the PA, were under way. but which were completely unfunded were: the Half of those projects would never have community health centre for Bribie Island; the started. The member for Logan whinged and community health centre for Coomera—no complained about the Logan Hospital. Its funds; the medical school in Townsville, in fourth stage was completed only because the respect of which $10m was missing; the bone former coalition Government found the money 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2725 to make that happen. That is the only reason it led by the nose by the bureaucrats—a weak is there. embattled Health Minister who cannot do One of the most disgraceful things we anything by herself—and turned her back on have witnessed since the change of all of the promises made to the people at Government has been the attempt by the Maryborough. We need a Health Minister in minority Beattie Labor Government to try to this State with a bit of strength. We need a stop the Robina and Noosa Hospitals. For Health Minister who can see that budgets are some reason they think that the people in the met and that waiting lists are fixed, not a two fastest growing areas of Queensland—the Health Minister who will turn poor old Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast—do not Maryborough into a fiasco and who promised deserve an extra hospital. They have some money at Cairns but did not even have the sort of philosophical problem with putting in money in the budget. The real expose today place a system that is exactly the same as that was that there was no report on the 36,000 at the Mater at South Brisbane, where we people in outpatients. have the Mater Children's, the Mater Mothers Time expired. and the Mater Public all operating on a system Report adopted. whereby the Government provides money to the Sisters of Mercy to provide free public hospital systems. The Government is opposed Estimates Committee F to this system. We will be telling everyone on the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast that Report the Labor Government did its best to stop that. The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Dr Clark): Fortunately, it could not do so. Order! The question is— It is a change to see a Health Minister "That the report of Estimates who is the laughing stock of Queensland Committee F be adopted." Health and the people of Queensland. In the Mr ROBERTS (Nudgee—ALP) Budget Speech, $17.9m was promised for the (2.56 p.m.): As Chairman of Estimates Cairns Base Hospital. What was in the Budget Committee F, I take this opportunity to thank papers? Some $4.65m! We have already my fellow committee members for their seen a backflip by the Health Minister, who contributions during the Estimates committee promised in a major speech before the process. In particular, I thank the committee election that no co-location would go ahead at secretariat staff for their professional advice RBH, PA and Prince Charles. and assistance, particularly during the Mrs EDMOND: I rise to a point of order. preparation of the report. Their work certainly That is totally untrue. I never, ever said that. paved the way for a smooth operation of the The member knows that. He has heard committee and also, as I have noted, the speeches in which I have said that our policy preparation of the report. I make particular supports co-location. mention of research director Ms Megan Collins The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Dr Clark): and also Veronica Rogers and Mandy Elcome. Order! There is no point of order. I thank also Hansard and other parliamentary staff for their professional assistance on the Mr HORAN: Even the $200m list that she day of the hearing. was forced to put forward—the so-called unfunded projects—was all rubbish. All that is With respect to the two portfolios within mentioned is growth funds. New initiatives are Estimates Committee F, which were not mentioned. None of those things are Employment, Training and Industrial Relations mentioned. Conveniently, the only thing and Education, I simply note at the outset that referred to is the growth funds. The Minister is it was pleasing to see significant increases in a total fraud. When we added up the list, it budgets for both portfolios. With respect to came to $22m, and all of that is a load of Employment, Training and Industrial Relations, rubbish. that increase was in the order of 18%. With respect to Education, the increase was in the What we have seen in health in order of 5% on the 1997-98 Estimates. Queensland since the embattled Health Minister has taken over has been an absolute There was one significant area of disaster. What a tragedy for a system that was disappointment in relation to this Estimates fixed up and professionalised so that it met its committee, and that was the content of the budgets, activity levels, turned the waiting lists statement of reservations provided by the around and gave people confidence in the member for Clayfield, which in my view has system! Firstly, we saw the fiasco at unduly politicised the committee's report. After Maryborough, where the Health Minister was asserting in his statement of reservations that 2726 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 the Minister had politicised the process, the The other area that I want to comment on member then went on to make probably the in relation to industrial relations reform is the most political statement of all the statements current provisions relating to section 293, or of reservations attached to committee reports the old section 45 of the Act, which allow for in this year's Estimates process. predatory behaviour both by trade unions and I wish to make a few comments on some employers in demarking coverage of union of the more significant issues arising from the members to a particular union. I have strong views on this particular provision in the Industrial Relations portfolio in particular. In legislation as I have had direct experience with relation to employment initiatives, it is very its consequences. In my view, it should be an clear that the Budget has the issue of job area of significant debate and hopefully creation as its central platform. The Premier significant amendment in any future industrial and the Minister for Employment have stated relations legislation. on a number of occasions that they are both obsessed about the issue of job creation, and The other issue that I will make brief it is pleasing to see such a heavy emphasis on mention of is—— job creation initiatives in this Budget. For Time expired. example, $283m will go towards facilitating the Mr QUINN (Merrimac—LP) (3.01 p.m.): At creation of 24,500 additional apprenticeships, the outset, I also place on record my traineeships and job placements. Also of appreciation to the member for Nudgee for his significance is the requirement that 10% of the chairmanship of this particular committee and employment on Government capital works also the secretariat for the work that it did in projects be allocated to apprentices. putting together the final report. The I just want to comment briefly on some of Opposition has put in a dissenting report. I the consultation currently taking place within think the issues that were canvassed in the the community on job creation. I participated in report are of general concern to interested an employment forum recently at the Kedron- groups within education itself. Basically, as I Wavell Services Club, which was attended by have said on many occasions before, this is over 50 local businesspeople and the coalition's Education budget with some representatives from training organisations and additional moneys in some key areas—and we also community organisations. I was most have acknowledged that—where they are encouraged by the active participation of the needed most. community representatives in that forum. The As I said before, we do have some discussion focused heavily on identifying concerns in terms of the amounts of money barriers to employment creation and also that have been taken out of the local area identifying employment opportunities within our networks, whether or not the additional funds region. The Minister and his department are to for the airconditioning—the extended be congratulated on initiating that consultative zone—will be sufficient over the longer term, forum, and hopefully it will be a feature which what will happen to the discretionary grants will continue into the future. now that the Leading Schools program has The other issue I might touch on arising been abolished, and whether or not there is from the Budget papers on the subject of enough there for the longer term as well, and industrial relations is in relation to the reform of also the issue of funding for primary schools the industrial relations system, an area which is and preschools. I also note that other interest dear to my heart given my previous life as an groups have raised the latter issue with the industrial advocate for the Electrical Trades Minister and his department on a number of Union. It is important, in my view, that we occasions and they have attempted to give move from an industrial relations system that is those groups replies. Many of the answers currently based on individual contracts, on have been contradictory, circulatory and not individual conflict pitting worker against worker altogether believable, I might say, in terms of and worker against employer in an unequal trying to satisfy their particular concerns. bargaining situation. We must move to a I understand that some three weeks ago situation in which there is more fairness and the QCPCA put to Education Queensland or equity. During recent debates in this the Minister's office a range of questions that it Parliament, I was disappointed that we were would like answered on primary school not successful in abolishing QWAs. I hope that funding. It has yet to receive a reply, despite one day this Parliament takes that significant even prompting the department for an answer step to restore some proper balance to the about a week ago. I would be very interested power relationships that exist between to see that request for further information employers and employees. answered as soon as possible. 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2727

Mr Wells: You could also put in an FOI difference in the longer term in terms of application. educational outcomes, expectations for further Mr QUINN: The QCPCA could also put in life, social cohesion and a whole range of an FOI application, along with the 30 or 40 areas in which education is so important. other people who put in applications to As I said before, the coalition supports the Education Queensland every month. budget, with some reservations, and I have instanced those. No doubt they will be areas of I would also like to canvass the issue of some debate in future, particularly amongst the report today by the Queensland Schools members in this Chamber, if not amongst the Curriculum Council and the graphs it contains various interest groups. about the levels of literacy and numeracy within our schools. I notice a great deal of play Time expired. has been made about the gap between the Ms STRUTHERS (Archerfield—ALP) cohorts and the various groups within the (3.06 p.m.): I firstly wish to express my support education scene, such as children from non- of the Budget Estimates process. This is an English speaking backgrounds, Aboriginal and essential accountability tool and one that the Torres Strait Islander kids, boys versus girls Parliament must have in order to restore and and the need to put in place programs to retain public confidence in the Parliament. In narrow the gap. I agree with that. I think that my former life as the Assistant Director of the that is a worthwhile cause and one that we Queensland Council of Social Service, I can should be looking at. recall sitting in on a number of Budget However, I do point out that Education Estimates hearings. Many expenditure items Queensland has been looking at these issues were revealed that the public would not over a number of years, along with every other normally hear about. I certainly think it is State Government and Education Department important that, in the words of one of my in Australia, and has yet to find answers to infamous Labor colleagues or new Labor these particular problems. I suspect that this is recruits, "We have to keep us bastards a problem that not only Australian systems but honest", and I think the Estimates process also other systems around the world are trying performs a vital role there. I also thank the to grapple with. There are some problems in committee support staff for its great work. trying to come to grips with these particular As I sat on Budget Estimates issues. I do take heart from the fact that, Committee F, I can recall feeling both greatly overall, standards are rising within the systems encouraged and greatly disturbed—greatly both State and non-State, and that is clearly encouraged to hear more about the evident in the report. The challenge from now responsible Budget initiatives that our on will be to make sure that, in fact, these Government has introduced in the key portfolio standards keep rising and that we do not areas and greatly disturbed to hear about plateau off or fall away. some of the extravagant spending of the former coalition Government. On the One of the key issues there will be the encouraging side, I am pleased to be part of a ongoing commitment to provide additional Government that is tackling unemployment funds for education over the next couple of head on, rather than relying solely on an years. I note with a great deal of delight that, unpredictable, self-serving market to deliver when the coalition was in Government, for the jobs. first time ever, funding for education in Queensland passed the national average. I I was encouraged to hear the Minister for think that was a particularly important Employment, Training and Industrial Relations milestone in terms of education funding in report on much-needed employment Queensland. We need to be ever vigilant that initiatives. These include the establishment of it never slips below that average from now. We a Workplace Strategies Unit to provide labour must make sure that additional funds keep market research to support policy on flowing into the system and that they are well employment growth, job security and related targeted and well used. It is not much use areas. $104m has been allocated to job having the additional funds if the policy placements and has been budgeted for over a settings are not right and the money is frittered four-year period to achieve 9,000 job away and wasted. We always have to make placements through the Community Jobs Plan sure that we focus on achieving better and Community Employment Assistance Plan. outcomes for kids, we improve our educational We have heard a lot about our initiatives system and we do leave a lasting legacy to our in regard to apprenticeships and traineeships. children. This is one of the very few areas in $15m over three years has been allocated to which Governments can make an important provide $2,000 cash bonus incentives to 2728 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 private sector employers or group training had little hope of getting work. In addition, we schemes to employ apprentices in industries heard that the previous Government suffering skill shortages. In addition, $144m will extensively downsized the department, with in be provided for public sector apprenticeships excess of 500 voluntary early redundancies, and traineeships. I will certainly be working totalling more than $21.5m. There was a hard to make sure that people in my area range of excesses there. I do not think the benefit from these initiatives. Despite ongoing former Minister has much to be proud of. criticism from members on the other side of In relation to Education, things were a the House, we are already getting on with the little better. There was some excessive job. spending in the Leading Schools program, lots I am also delighted that $4m has been of conference money and other things and, allocated to my home turf for the Construction overall, not a great deal to be proud of. Our Training Centre at Salisbury to complete road Government will not be extravagant. We are work and administration facilities. This will have committed to our jobs target and we are on the centre fully operational very shortly. I grew track to achieve it. up in Salisbury, near the centre, and I know Mr SANTORO (Clayfield—LP) (3.11 p.m.): first-hand the difficulties that people had when It is a pleasure to participate in this debate, it was the site of the Evans Deakin engineering because it gives me the opportunity to works. Many of my friends' fathers lost their highlight some of the deficiencies contained jobs during the 1970s and early 1980s, and it within the Estimates that we are debating and is both ironic and very positive that this site is to rebut some of the more scurrilous now being used as a construction skill centre. comments made by members opposite. Estimates Committee F heard that, in the I admit that my report of reservations is Education portfolio, $40m will be spent on somewhat political, as was the performance of addressing numeracy and literacy in schools, the Minister at the Estimates committee that an additional $2.5m has been allocated to hearing. I think the Estimates committee behaviour management and that 685 process has been the subject of gross abuse additional teachers would be employed this by this Government. It has been politicised year. These are all positive initiatives to secure right across the departments. Rather than the futures of our children. seeking to inform the Parliament and the I referred earlier to some of the disturbing public of the detail of its expenditure things that I heard during the hearing for estimates, the Government has politicised the Estimates Committee F, firstly in regard to the process—for example, delving into training initiatives of the former coalition consultancies—as it undoubtedly will at next Government. The Minister, Mr Braddy, year's Estimates committee hearings. We will revealed that, far from 1997 being the Year of then see how this Government's record Training, 1997 was more like the year of compares with that of others. training those already in training or those The Government politicised the process. It already in jobs. The Minister noted that far too expects us to just sit here and cop it, but I will much money was spent on paper respond accordingly. I said that the Minister qualifications for existing workers and not on lacked knowledge. That is true. He sat there unemployed people or new workers. As at 30 and could not tell us what his Government's June 1998, 2,317 of the 2,717 trainees employment targets were. He could not assure employed in the State Government were us about the 5% unemployment target. I am existing workers who were converted to simply stating the facts. I do not want to be trainees. personal or nasty. I am just disappointed that The previous Government abolished the Minister could not tell us what the many employment programs, totalling in Government's employment targets were. excess of $16m. Those programs included One of the major aspects of my probing many that were providing great support to into the Government's Estimates related to young people, such as the YES program, a how they protect the jobs of TAFE staff. I network of youth employment coordinators asked questions in relation to job security and around the State, the Self-Employment the reform and restructure of TAFE. The Venture Scheme, the local employment and Minister assured us that everything was okay. enterprise facilitation project and others. This He was not prepared to accept my suggestion $16m cut, combined with the Howard to him that TAFE was in trouble. I will quote Government's savage cut of $1.8 billion from from page 13 of the most recent edition of the labour market programs, has meant that State Public Services Federation Queensland young unemployed people particularly have newsletter, which sets out its assessment of 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2729 the Minister's budget. Let us see if it differs needed? I totally stand by the statements that greatly from my own. It states— I made. Not only do I stand by them; I will "The budget has also confirmed the widely circulate them and let the real judge, Government's decision to 'maintain the the public, decide whether it is the Minister's level of non-user choice competitive performance or my performance that is funding at January 1998 levels for a credible. three-year period'. We are proud of our training achievements. We had a record number of The Union wrote to the Department seeking clarification of a number of parts trainees and apprentices when I was Minister of the TAFE budget. The responses from and when the coalition was in Government. the Department showed that despite the This Minister, through TAFE, will be training increased funding, more jobs would be fewer students. Unfortunately for them, they lost this financial year and total student will be much worse off as a result of this enrolments in TAFE had not increased on Minister's lack of effort, lack of attention to the earlier estimates." detail and lack of intelligence. Time expired. There we have it. The SPSFQ backs up what I said at the Estimates committee hearing and Madam TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Dr outside of this place. Jobs are at risk; Clark): Order! Before I call the member for enrolments are down but more money is being Ferny Grove, I remind all members that, whilst given to TAFE. Is that an efficient use of they may be provoked, parliamentary moneys? I would suggest not. If those language should be used and care should be opposite call that politicisation, then I stand by taken when making comments. it and I will continue to do it. Those opposite Mr WILSON (Ferny Grove—ALP) talk about speaking the truth; I have been (3.17 p.m.): It is with great pleasure that I rise backed up by the SPSFQ, which for once has to speak in this debate on the report of done the decent thing and gone on the record Estimates Committee F. This is a beaut and told the truth. Beattie Budget. We will see more of that over If I talk about the Government depriving the remaining months of this financial year and Dalby and Noosa, which are in two coalition it will be repeated in years two and three of this electorates, of the colleges that were funded in term and in subsequent terms of the Beattie the coalition's Estimates, am I being political? I Government. This has been the first occasion am simply stating a fact. How convenient that on which I have had the opportunity to two facilities which are very much needed experience the Estimates committee process, within those electorates have been taken out and it was quite an eye opener. of the Minister's budget. I express my appreciation to the two Am I being political if I defend myself Ministers who so excellently reported to the against the scurrilous, unsubstantiated charge committee on the expenditure allocated to that I destroyed the Long report, when the their portfolio areas. I commend the Minister knows that prior to the Estimates his departmental officers on the work they did and director-general physically saw it and handled it the support they provided for the benefit of the and other people on the 12th floor physically committee, or those of the committee saw it and handled it and when there was a members who were willing to listen rather than copy of the report in his department, in one of talk at the committee table—those who his regional offices? I sent it to one individual, actually wanted to learn more about what the who gave it to that particular office prior to the Government proposes to do for Queensland in election. We have a Minister who seeks to the areas of education, training and jobs, as make things up. I defend myself. On that opposed to those who are preoccupied with basis, I am said to have been politicising these defending their sensitivities in regard to their issues. failure of the people of Queensland when they were in charge of certain portfolio areas in the Mr BRADDY: Madam Temporary recent past. Chairman, I rise to a point of order. I find it I wish to commend the Government on a offensive and untrue that I am a Minister who couple of key areas within the portfolios of "seeks to make things up". I ask that it be Industrial Relations and Education. I will then withdrawn. return to a key area of concern to me. I Mr SANTORO: Those comments are commend the Government on the work that it withdrawn. Is it being political to state that the sets out to do in relation to workplace health agricultural colleges were deprived of $6m, and safety. Only people such as I and others despite the fact that those new dormitories are on this side of the Chamber, who know what it 2730 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 is like to work in industry, know how important it Dr KINGSTON (Maryborough—ONP) is to defend and promote workplace health (3.22 p.m.): Firstly, I thank the member for and safety. We are delighted to be providing Nudgee for the way in which he chaired our the funds for another 15 workplace health and Estimates committee. My remarks relate to the safety officers throughout Queensland. Ministerial Portfolio Statements issued by the I am also delighted that we are going to Minister for Employment, Training and restore the TAFE system to the central training Industrial Relations but will be confined to a provider status that it had in the past but which brief consideration of TAFE Queensland. I am was not observed by the coalition. We are now grateful to be the only One Nation member going to restore TAFE to that central role, and invited to be on the Estimates committees. I we are going to build the sort of alliances that hope that the member for Broadwater notes are needed between it and industry to deliver that statement after the remarks that he made real on-the-job training for the workers who yesterday. I have to admit that during the need jobs here in Queensland. That brings me Training debate I felt like a junior flyweight to the apprenticeship and traineeship system, between two heavies. However, I am happy to for which we are also going to lift the funding, say that I still have two intact ears. and the 10% rule for trainees on Government As a newcomer to this Assembly, and projects. after some 15 years of writing and reviewing national and state budgets for developing As to education, I commend the Asian and Pacific countries, I am surprised and Government for its focus on behaviour disappointed by the presentation of the management control within the schooling Ministerial Portfolio Statements. The funding system; the funding for students with agencies with which I am accustomed to disabilities and learning difficulties; the 685 working, including the IMF, would not accept increase in teacher numbers; and the abolition such documents because of their lack of clarity of the Leading Schools program, which was and clear definition. I have been told that the the greatest threat to the key principle of any Federal statements are worse, but that is of Labor Government, that is, equity within the little consolation. education system. Praise be to the Labor Government for abolishing that iniquitous I am gratified that a 10-point plan for system! TAFE is being implemented, but I am a little curious about the $12m that this Government I turn now to the Salisbury skills centre, is providing to assist in the restructuring so that which has been the subject of some adverse TAFE can become more competitive in the comment by members opposite. That provision of vocational education and training excellent training skills centre in the suburb of by improving internal operations and Salisbury is a joint venture between TAFE and management. This is, after all, the age of the industry. Its board was appointed in 1994-95 National Competition Policy, is it not? The with a manager, and it involves a bipartite previous Minister is to be congratulated on relationship between a number of key throwing vocational training and the provision representatives from industry and TAFE. In of accredited courses open to private that centre, which is receiving $4m from this providers, but in so doing he has correctly budget, a number of brilliant training initiatives created the need to convert a business are being undertaken, and they deserve the structure shaped like a rectangle into a lean bipartisan support of all members in this place. and mean pyramid. I commend the Government's initiative in assisting the funding of that centre. Plant The performance indicators are presented operator trainees and scaffolders are being in an unusual manner but are nevertheless trained there. interesting. In 1997-98, 49% of staff were involved in administration-type activities and Mr Purcell: Builders labourers. 51% were teaching related. In 1998-99, it is Mr WILSON: And builders labourers. predicted that this ratio will improve to 45% Those people are being trained in many trades administration and 55% teaching. However, it and related skills. That centre has been must be remembered that TAFE has a commended by industry, and companies such separate sales and promotion budget of as Thiess, Hollands, Barclay Mowlem, $50m. I have spoken to some private McIlwains, the Abbey group, Civil & Civic, providers, and it appears that their Bechtel and Concrete Constructions have administration and sales costs total 20% of contributed $170,000 to developing the their expenses. My own college in Laos—with infrastructure associated with that skills centre. some 900 private fee-paying students— allocates 10% of expenses to administration Time expired. and sales. 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2731

The TAFE Queensland cost per student needs. It is a budget of approximately an contact hour is $10.16 for non-competitive additional $5m each year for literacy and courses. This includes an on-cost of $2.87, or numeracy. It is a budget of an additional $5m 39%. I understand that some private providers per year for behaviour management. It is a are charging about the same on-cost budget that considerably enhances the capital percentage, but I must say that that surprises works program above the levels that they me, as from my own experience that is low, would have otherwise been. It is a budget that and my college operates from a very modest will do a great deal for education in this State. structure. Within the agricultural consulting There is a dissenting report to the industry the on-cost on salaries accepted by committee's report, and I would like to refer to the Federal Government after a long inquiry is it briefly. I thank the honourable member for 90%, or a factor of 1.9, and within large Merrimac for his witty and erudite remarks accounting firms it is up to 200% for senior earlier and the interesting paradoxes with partners. This low gross profit margin becomes which he presented us on the way more understandable when TAFE admits to a through—like "more is less", "consultation is 35% loss of revenue forgone due to TAFE's secrecy" and "transparency is opacity". concessional policy. The honourable member for Merrimac TAFE consumes taxpayers' dollars in the was trying in his own witty and erudite way to hope that non-taxpayers will pay tax by being persuade people that a record budget was, in employed, or existing taxpayers will pay more fact, a budget of savage cuts. The fact that he tax by being employed in a more rewarding managed to engage the Courier-Mail in that position. No-one would disagree with that joke just shows what good humoured and fun- general philosophy. But how do we make it loving people they are there. The truth of the more revenue positive? TAFE teachers ideally matter is that there were no cuts to any teach for 21 hours a week and are expected to program in the Education Department. The spend 11 additional hours in lecture honourable member for Merrimac has referred preparation, that is, 32 hours a week. Unlike to the local area network service. $13m is what similar institutions in other countries, TAFE we believe we will spend if we pay the bills as does not provide courses on a three-shifts-a- the work gets done as fast as we can get the day basis and, in general, TAFE is closed to work done. If we can get the work done faster students for around 12 weeks a year. than that, then we will pay more bills. If we get Additionally, I know of courses being provided the work done less quickly, we will pay fewer for apprentices in the sugar industry in the bills. It as simple as that. That was not a cut. middle of the crushing season and for trainees With respect to airconditioning, the in the beef industry in the middle of the member for Merrimac says that the Cooler mustering season. Thus I suggest that, while Schools program will be delivered at a lesser we have TAFE facilities that are the envy of cost per school than it was under the most countries, those facilities are severely Government of his complexion. The dissenting underutilised, as are some very good teachers. report states that, if one adds up the funds Solutions could include getting closer to allocated to all the schools and divides that industry, combining with private providers and leasing them time in underutilised facilities—— figure by the number of the schools, one will find that the average cost is much less than Time expired. the average funds that we have allocated for Hon. D. M. WELLS (Murrumba—ALP) doing the rest of the schools. That is (Minister for Education) (3.27 p.m.): Firstly, I interesting arithmetic, but it neglects the thank the honourable member for Nudgee, the considerable start-up costs for the members of the committee and the staff of the airconditioning program. If one subtracts the committee for their superb work in respect of start-up costs, takes into account the schools these Estimates. This is a great Education that we will be airconditioning in the new zone budget of $3.46 billion. That is close enough where there are fewer centres of major to $3,500m. This is a record budget. It is a population concentration and divides by the budget in which the spending is above the right number, one will find that we have approximately the correct amount. I say to the national average, and it is the highest figure honourable member for Merrimac and to that has ever been spent on education in a honourable members generally that we will get single year in this jurisdiction. that program going as fast as we can. If it This is a budget that has a number of costs a little more or a little less, we will pay significant features. It has an additional $35m those bills. We promise that we will pay the over four years for our Education for All bills, because we have a budget for the bills program to provide for those with special that we pay. 2732 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998

The honourable member for Merrimac Education Department planning branch advice said in his dissenting report that there were and decided to move the high school from cuts to the primary sector. That is not exactly Jimboomba across to a new area called true. $26m was parked in the primary schools Flagstone Creek, which is south of Greenbank budget, but that $26m came from the works and where, in the future, there will certainly be budget in the previous year. That $26m was all significant development. I disagreed with that parked in there and it is now back in the works decision of the Education Department budget. It is still dedicated for Queensland planning branch and the Minister, David schools. There is no less money in the primary Hamill, who said at that time that he could not sector. The ratios will remain the same in guarantee the growth of Jimboomba. Anyone Years 1, 2, and 3. We will still have 25 who has ever been through Jimboomba would students for one teacher, except that large know that originally it was a hotel and a dance numbers of additional people also will be hall. Now, over 25,000 people live at making their appearance in the classroom as a Jimboomba. It is much, much larger than result of our behaviour management Beaudesert. We can expect the residential programs, literacy and numeracy programs development to continue to extend from Park and the Education for All initiatives. Ridge towards the south and towards This is a spectacularly good Education Beaudesert. That growth will naturally come. It budget. I am concerned that the members of does not matter what sort of industries are put the Queensland Council for Parents and at Beaudesert and Jimboomba; the growth will Citizens are awaiting a response. They are come there in the same way that it will come to being advised that they will be fully briefed Beenleigh. As the main roads follow the Mount next week and they will have all their questions Lindesay Highway and the south-east answered. motorway, that is where the growth will be. The difficulty of moving the high school Hon. K. R. LINGARD (Beaudesert—NPA) site from Jimboomba across to Flagstone (3.32 p.m.): Today is the celebration of my 15 years in Parliament. In those 15 years, one of Creek is that we have to wait for Flagstone the most delightful things has been the Creek to develop a population that is large building of at least 20 schools in my electorate. enough for a high school to be viable. The My electorate originally started in Springwood Camira bypass has not gone ahead and the and came down through Woodridge/Kingston area behind the military camp at Greenbank to Beaudesert. It has been an area of does not have developed main roads, thus we amazing growth. One of the delights has been do not have the growth at Flagstone Creek to to watch the number of schools that have cater for a high school. The ALP and the developed in that area. However, currently we Education Department moved the site across are fighting for a particular high school, that is, to Flagstone Creek, an area that does not have the growth in population needed for a Jimboomba high school. I was disappointed to high school. As a result, we now have the see that, in the last Estimates, Jimboomba unbelievable situation of Beaudesert having high school had not been catered for. over 1,600 students in a most limited area of We watched the residential development land and we are unable to provide relief in the of Kingston grow until the Kingston State High northern area. School had over 2,000 students. We watched The Education Department planning that residential development extend through branch has been adamant that it will not build Marsden to Browns Plains and Park Ridge. a high school at Jimboomba. However, the The growth of that development was easy to facilities branch has decided to buy land at predict. However, I have been disappointed Jimboomba and get ready for a high school. that until 1990 it was quite obvious that a high Now we have a split between the planning school at Jimboomba would be necessary, not branch and the facilities branch. Unfortunately, only to cater for the residential development the planning branch is supported by the ALP. that was coming south but also to take the The Education Department is saying to pressure off the Beaudesert State High Jimboomba students that they must travel School, which has now hit 1,600 students. north to Park Ridge, while saying to students in That is a very small rural school with very Canungra that they must travel across to the limited area. It is not possible to maintain a Gold Coast. There is no way that students in population of 1,600 students at that school. Canungra and Jimboomba, who have always In 1990 when the ALP came to office, the been linked to Beaudesert, want to travel to Government made a very significant decision. the Gold Coast or to Park Ridge. The coalition The Minister, David Hamill, who also today decided that those students would be allowed celebrates 15 years in Parliament, took to attend the Beaudesert State High School 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2733 and that we would not say to those students This funding will create 6,500 that they must move back to the Marsden, apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities in Loganlea and Kingston schools—schools that Government departments, local governments have decreased in size because they have and statutory authorities. The private sector been left in a vacuum. can also play its part. With support from the The Beaudesert State High School will Government, up to 9,000 additional continue to grow. There is massive growth in apprenticeships and traineeships will be the number of Year 10s and Year 11s. The created. These include 7,500 apprenticeships numbers will soon swell because of a very high and traineeships in industries with skill retention rate. The Year 10 students will be shortages or in regions with poor employment retained and go into Year 11. As a result, the prospects. A $2,000 cash bonus will be offered Beaudesert State High School will become to employers or group training schemes that larger and larger. I now receive from the employ additional apprentices in skills shortage planning branch the theory that large high areas such as tourism, building and schools are good and necessary and that construction and the metals and engineering unless a school has a large number of industries. Significantly for the building and students that school will not have a top drama construction industry, we are also establishing department and a top arts department. I a $5.4m training fund, which is expected to probably pushed that theory when I ran a create up to 1,000 additional apprentices a school of 2,000 students. The Education year. Department must consider the issue. This portfolio has a key role to play in developing the economy and promoting Time expired. sustainable employment and training. Hon. P. J. BRADDY (Kedron—ALP) Specifically, our initiatives will produce a better (Minister for Employment, Training and educated, highly skilled and more flexible work Industrial Relations) (3.38 p.m.): I am pleased force, consolidate TAFE as a dynamic and to report that the 1998-99 budget for viable public provider of vocational education Employment, Training and Industrial Relations and training, attain a fair and balanced provides hard evidence that the Beattie Labor industrial relations system, and promote safer Government is serious about employment and and healthier workplaces. We will also review the creation of jobs. Record expenditure of the existing industrial relations legislation and $721m represents an overall increase of 4.8%. promote new legislation. Our aim is to That reflects our commitment to jobs and our establish an industrial relations system that is intention of creating an economic environment fair and equitable. It will be based on that promotes growth and generates cooperation and consultation that improves sustainable jobs. All activities within my economic competitiveness, fosters job growth portfolio are ultimately related to the need to and enhances job security. create job opportunities for Queenslanders. The Beattie Labor Government inherited We are doing what our predecessors failed to a TAFE system in crisis. Funding had been do by addressing unemployment, the State slashed to such an extent that TAFE was skills shortages and job security with a range of brought almost to the brink of ruin. We will get positive initiatives designed to get on with the job of addressing the urgent Queenslanders working again. funding and organisational needs that will The $283m four-year Breaking the restore TAFE to its pre-eminent role in Unemployment Cycle package will create more Queensland's training market. As part of our than 24,500 apprenticeship, traineeship and 10-point plan for TAFE Queensland, we will job placement opportunities throughout the maintain competitive funding at January 1998 State. Specifically, the Budget provides $109m levels. A $10m adjustment has been made to to create 9,000 job placements for the long- the TAFE program to meet this commitment. term unemployed, including disadvantaged Further funding of $12m will also be available youth, and mature-aged and indigenous to assist TAFE Queensland to become more people to work on essential public and competitive in the training market. It is certainly community works. This Government believes it true that we cannot make all the has the responsibility as an employer to give improvements that we need to make to TAFE young people the opportunity to gain work in our first 12 months in office because of what experience and on-the-job training. We will set had been done to it in the previous two and a an example for the private sector and the half years by our predecessors in Government. community by attacking unemployment at all However, this is a very good start. levels through a $48m budget allocation in a Finally, $1m will be provided for the full year. employment of an additional 15 workplace 2734 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 health and safety inspectors to service the the Minister for Training and Industrial building and construction industry. This will Relations must make it happen. There are too ensure a greater level of compliance within the many talkers on the Government side of the industry, particularly in regional Queensland. Chamber and not enough doers. Too many The Beattie Labor Government will deliver on talkers are concentrating on the rhetoric and its election promises to reduce unemployment tomorrow's press release rather than getting and alleviate the State's critical skills results in the field. Sooner or later, they have shortages. The 1998-99 Budget provides the to be judged on the results on the ground, and means to achieve that. it is those results that count. The success or Mr SEENEY (Callide—NPA) (3.42 p.m.): I otherwise of this Budget and the initiatives that appreciate the opportunity to make some it contains will not be measured in terms of comments about this Estimates committee dollars spent, or speeches made, or press report. At the outset, I commend the Minister releases issued; it will be measured in terms of for Education on the implementation of the people trained and tradesmen produced. Cooler Schools program. It is a program that During the comments of the Minister for has particular importance for a large section of Employment, Training and Industrial Relations my electorate. I feel sure that a great number on this Estimates committee report, he of schools will also benefit from it. I just hope criticised the performance of the coalition that the Minister for Education has allocated Government. It is worth repeating some of the enough funds in his budget allocations to cater things that the coalition Government did. for the uptake that will inevitably come for that Under the coalition Government, part-time program. arrangements were built into apprenticeships Mr Hamill: A lot more than there was in and traineeships so that the number of May. businesses that could for the first time consider Mr SEENEY: It is a great program. I give employing an apprentice or a trainee in their credit where credit is due. In the short time that own right was widened significantly, and many, I have been in this Chamber, I have not had many businesses took up that opportunity. cause to congratulate too many of the Ms Struthers interjected. Ministers sitting opposite, but in all sincerity I commend the Minister for Education on the Mr SEENEY: If the member is going to Cooler Schools program and the way in which interject, she should do it loudly enough so it has been implemented according to the that I can reply. I enjoy responding to election promises. I think that the four to one interjections, but I cannot respond when I subsidy rate is a great result. I just hope that cannot hear them. those schools will see that scheme come to The coalition introduced school-based fruition, and I say that most sincerely. apprenticeships and traineeships, which I would now like to revert to form and allowed young Queenslanders to gain relevant make some comments about the Training part and useful industry experience as well as of the Estimates committee. I have listened to vocational qualifications whilst still attending the rhetoric from the Minister for Training and school. The coalition introduced work-based Industrial Relations. Unfortunately, I cannot delivery of training, significantly reducing and in see that that rhetoric is backed by fact. It is many cases eliminating the need for worth repeating some of the figures that I apprentices and trainees to leave their quoted for the building industry during a workplaces to receive formal education. The debate in this Chamber yesterday. In 1992-93, coalition upgraded efforts to ensure the the number of apprentices and trainees in the application of competency-based training building industry who completed their training across the full vocational training spectrum. All was 1,246. Two years later, under a Labor of those policies were designed to achieve Government, that figure dropped to 874. That positive results, they were achieving positive was a reduction of 362 apprentices and results, and they would have continued to do trainees—and the member for Bulimba should so. listen to this because I know that he has an All we have heard from this Government interest in the business. There were 362 is a repeat of the same old rhetoric. However, apprentices who never completed their training in that one industry. That was the pattern we must all ensure that that rhetoric produces across the gamut of industries while Labor was results. Of the apprentices who start their in power. indentures, 55% fail, and that is an unacceptable result for all of us. Sooner or later, this Government must be judged on more than rhetoric. Sooner or later, Time expired. 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2735

Mr NUTTALL (Sandgate—ALP) and they still cannot find the time capsule. It is (3.48 p.m.): Angry young man, isn't he? still hidden away somewhere. Although all portfolios are important, the Mr Lucas interjected. Education and Industrial Relations and Employment portfolios are probably two of the Mr NUTTALL: Actually, my stand-up most important. Therefore, I would like to plebiscite was held at that school and I comment on matters relating to those happened to win it, too. I believe that the portfolios. Building Better Schools program has been a worthwhile project for primary schools and we The Premier has given me the should look at extending it to secondary responsibility of looking after multicultural schools. In terms of future job creation and affairs. A couple of weeks ago, I took the improving our schools, the Building Better opportunity to visit the Milpera Special School Schools program should be extended to at Chelmer. For members' information, I point secondary schools. out that migrants who have decided to make Australia their home but whose children are Mr HEGARTY (Redlands—NPA) unable to speak English, or who can speak (3.53 p.m.): Although I did not take part in very little English, have the opportunity of Estimates Committee F, I am interested in the attending the Milpera Special School which is, subject matter of the committee. I take an as I said, a special school earmarked to teach interest in the State and non-State schools in young people English. I commend the work my electorate, as I am sure the honourable that is being done at that school by the member for Rockhampton does. I congratulate teaching staff and I say to the Education the Government on maintaining the level of Department that it is a great institution. After spending on education that was set by the about six months or a little longer, the children previous coalition Government. For the first have a grasp of English as a second language time, we now spend up to the national and can move into mainstream high schools. average. The Government has maintained The school does a great deal of good work. that level of funding and has, in fact, exceeded it. It should be commended for its Speaking of English as a second interest in the education of children in language gives me an opportunity to talk Queensland. about the LOTE program. I applaud the LOTE program, but teachers that I have spoken to The information technology initiatives, believe that there needs to be some flexibility Schooling 2001 and Connect-Ed, are very in this program, particularly in primary schools. important to bring children into the 21st Children who are struggling with their own century through the provision of state-of-the-art language of English are still required to learn education facilities and give them the skills that another language. There needs to be some they will need in pursuing their roles in life. I flexibility in the program to allow principals to am a little concerned about the impost that is sign kids off the LOTE program so that they placed on schools in providing information can concentrate on their English and improve technology. Schools will have to maintain their own language. That needs to be equipment, look after programming and do all addressed. of the things that one has to do with new technology. However, the funding for that is The Building Better Schools program has not sufficient. Many schools are forming been a great success, particularly in my clusters whereby one full-time technician may electorate, which has a number of older be employed by several schools in order to schools. In fact, this year the Sandgate State maintain and upgrade information technology School celebrated its 125th year, which gives equipment. I highlight that problem for the an indication of how old some of the schools in Minister, although I am sure that he is aware my electorate are. of it. Provision will certainly have to be made Mr Purcell: I've got the oldest school in for that, not in the distant future but very Brisbane down in Hemmant. shortly, because several hundred schools are Mr NUTTALL: One hundred and twenty- on line and are utilising new technology. five years is not a bad track record. When the Some communities that have not yet school celebrated its centenary, they hid a been connected to the Internet are concerned time capsule in the grounds. They went at the possibility that the provision of fibre-optic looking for it for the 125th anniversary and cabling may not be continued but will be they could not find it. They asked former downgraded to a copper cable, which would students if they knew where the time capsule be cheaper. It could prove to be a retrograde was hidden, and they were told about 17 step in the long term if short-term expediency different locations. They checked every one and savings take precedence. I certainly hope 2736 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 that that is not the case. The issue has been Estimates Committee G raised with me when I have visited school Report communities in my electorate, so I raise it with the Minister today. The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Dr Clark): The question is— The provision for 685 extra teachers is very welcome. Most of those teachers will go "That the report of Estimates to secondary schools, which of course Committee G be adopted." desperately need them. However, I highlight Mr LUCAS (Lytton—ALP) (3.58 p.m.): the problem of some of the small primary This afternoon it is with great pleasure that I schools throughout the State, many of which speak to the report of Estimates Committee G have only part-time administrative assistants. during the Committee stage. Before I The principals have to do most of the duties commence, I wish to comment on various that principals of larger schools have to aspects in relation to the Estimates committee. perform, yet they have a shortfall in the I thank the committee staff—our research administrative support that would only be fair director, Les Dunn, and our research officer, and reasonable for them to receive. We have Cassandra Adams—for the excellent job they to look at the ratio of administrative staff to did. I thank also Hansard. I thank my fellow student numbers, which cannot always be committee members from both sides of the calculated using a simple formula. Chamber. Both sides approached the job in a constructive and cooperative fashion. Not only The Government will not proceed with the was it conducted in that spirit; it was also coalition's Leading Schools initiative. We look conducted in a pleasant and cheerful manner. forward with anticipation to finding out what will It is always nice when we can get on with replace it. Some of the schools that went into people while at the same time undertake a rounds 1 and 2 of the program made serious task. As the member for Kurwongbah commitments on the basis of the funding that indicated, there was no dissenting report. That was promised. Another $15,000 is due to is clearly a pat on the back for the committee them in the first semester, and that funding is and for the Government's Budget. I thank also supposed to be ongoing. I certainly hope that the Ministers and their departmental staff for that is the case, because there is a degree of the cooperation and assistance they gave to scepticism in the community on this issue. The the committee. Minister would be wise to keep his commitment for next year's funding and The portfolios of three different Ministers ensure that it is ongoing as promised. were examined by the committee. Firstly, I wish to speak about the Department of The Building Better Schools program will Communication and Information, Local provide $80m for primary schools and a further Government and Planning. Under the $10m for backlog maintenance, which is very proposed budget, there has been a 17% important to schools throughout the State. A increase in expenditure to $90.5m. One of the number of schools in my electorate have very important things that Minister Mackenroth outgrown their administration block facilities as has achieved in his administration of this the student and staff numbers grow and as portfolio is the amalgamation of five functions deputy principals and other staff are in information technology over a number of appointed. Many schools do not have the agencies into one department. I understand room to provide extra accommodation. that Queensland, through the Labor To cite another problem, $158,000 worth Opposition and then Opposition Leader Peter of maintenance was identified as being Beattie, was the first State in Australia that needed at one school, yet only $11,000 was proposed having an information technology allocated for this year. portfolio. That information technology portfolio Another area of concern is the Special has been adopted subsequently by many Needs Support Group. Shailer Park High other States and the Commonwealth. That just School in my electorate is the only school in shows how a good idea from Queensland the Logan/Beaudesert district that does not Labor is being adopted and administered have that vital support. That school takes throughout the country. students from a low socioeconomic area and We have a very decentralised State, and they need that sort of vital support. I wish to we have seen a number of commitments to highlight the fact that all the schools in my increase rural access in the budgetary area—— documentation. Technology can be a great leveller. The Minister and the department will Time expired. put a lot of effort into looking at competition up Report adopted. and down the State, from Brisbane to Cairns, 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2737 in relation to our fibre-optic capacity. At I do not have a lot of time left, but I wish present, Telstra has a monopoly. In Brisbane to mention one very disturbing issue that came there is plenty of competition. However, we up in the Estimates committee hearing, and need to have competition up and down the that was the expenditure by the previous State so that people in rural and regional Government on sports facilities. We heard the communities can have a fair go. outrageous information that $5.5m was spent In particular, I support the Information in Joan Sheldon's electorate for the benefit of Industries Branch under the leadership of Liz her electorate. I understand that there are only Manning. A lot of effort goes into assisting three tartan tracks north of Brisbane, and two information technology and computer of them are in Joan Sheldon's electorate. That programs to be developed within this country is outrageous. to be sold both here and overseas. Also, in Time expired. Local Government and Planning we have Hon. V. P. LESTER (Keppel—NPA) seen a $45m increase in expenditure, with (4.03 p.m.): At the outset, I congratulate those $12.4m for Planning. Regional and rural members who participated in the Estimates communities are very important in the State of committee process, in particular the chairman, Queensland. Eight new QGAP offices will be the member for Lytton, who conducted the built in 1998-99. I was lucky enough to inspect proceedings very fairly. I also point out that, the Mirani site with Bruce Flemming, the despite key differences in many respects, I Director of Rural Communities. I was very enjoy a courteous relationship with the Minister impressed with the facilities that are being for Environment and Heritage and Minister for offered for people in rural communities. Access Natural Resources. I am pleased to say that to those facilities is important. They are being that courtesy was extended during the brought together in the one place by working hearings of Estimates Committee G. That with the local community. I note that the does not mean to say that we did not get Minister for Public Works and Housing is stuck into each other, but we were decent, fair agreeing with me. He takes particular interest and courteous about it. in rural and regional communities in this State. Mr Seeney: I agree with you, too. Having said that, the State coalition still has a very serious reservation about the State Mr LUCAS: I know that the member for Budget allocations for the 1998-99 financial Callide agrees with me, too. On many year to the Department of Environment and occasions he has told me how he really does Heritage and the Department of Natural support the initiatives that this Government Resources, and a number of other has come up with. departments. The State coalition has also Mr Seeney: I support that one. been very concerned about the continued Mr LUCAS: I know that the member attempts by the Beattie Government to stymie supports that initiative. It is very good of him to the Gold Coast's chances of hosting Expo 2002. Our concerns were further fuelled when recognise that. the Minister admitted to the Estimates Mr Schwarten: He is a nice bloke. committee that his department had been Mr LUCAS: He is a nice bloke. I look asked by the Department of State forward to his recognising that in a number of Development to compile property descriptions other debates. and valuations of sites around Brisbane, The Minister for Tourism, Sport and including the RNA showground site. The Racing is in the Chamber at the moment. I admission came despite previous suggestions congratulate him on being a Minister with a by the Premier and his deputy that they had real commitment to and a real idea about the no intention of moving the proposed Expo site policy future of this State. We have had a from Coomera on the Gold Coast to the $59.3m increase in Consolidated Fund Brisbane area. The Gold Coast Bulletin carried expenditure in the last Budget. Tourism is the a very appropriate headline following the second largest industry in this State. One in 12 Estimates debate titled "Exposed". The State Queenslanders is directly employed—not coalition has some concerns. We wonder indirectly—in tourism, and it contributes 10% to whether the Government's intentions are as gross State product. That is almost double the honourable as it claims. contribution of mining, at 5.4%, or agriculture, The Government's failure to address at 5.5%. We have only to look at the benefits environmental issues is further demonstrated of Indy that the Minister has indicated to see with cuts in funding to the Gurulmundi secure the great initiatives that this Government has landfill site. This site, which in the past has taken in this area. been used as a toxic waste dump, was to be 2738 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 funded to the tune of $4.9m under the the Chair of the Parliamentary Committee for previous coalition Government. This funding Electoral and Administrative Review, that was for the rehabilitation of the site and committee unanimously recommended that ongoing monitoring as well as an extra the Queensland Parliament adopt an evaporation pond. The Government has cut Estimates committee system for examining the this funding to $3.9m. However, the Budget. I think it has been most successful Government's slashing of the environmental and I am really pleased to see that it has program put in place by the former Borbidge continued. There are always accusations of it Government goes even further. being misused by members on either side of When the Borbidge Government handed the Chamber, and I will touch on that later. down its Budget in May this year, we provided I was particularly pleased to have been a further 160,000 hectares to be acquired for involved in Estimates Committee G, because national parks. Even though the Queensland that committee involved portfolios with Conservation Council was critical of that target, responsibilities very important for Cairns and saying that it did not go far enough, the far-north Queensland—environment, tourism, Beattie Government has set its national parks planning, communication, and regional and acquisition target at 100,000 hectares—some rural communities. It is important that people 60,000 fewer than that proposed by the former of far-north Queensland and Cairns are aware State coalition Government. that all of these areas have received additional funding from the Government in this Budget As has become normal for Labor for a range of programs and initiatives that are Governments across the nation, it has not benefiting our region. taken this Government long to commence its onslaught on rural communities. Nearly $45m Members would know of my interest in earmarked by the former Borbidge conservation matters, and if I have time I will Government for priority water projects has certainly address some of those issues in the been scrapped. That is a disgrace. Nearly Budget. However, I would like to use my time $30m set aside for the Water Development to examine in some detail what I do consider Incentive Scheme has vanished under the to be a misuse of the Budget Estimates present Government. That scheme was an process by the member for Toowoomba North. initiative of the former Borbidge Government During the Estimates committee hearing itself, and came from an independent water advisory the member asked a legitimate question in task force. The scheme provided farmers with relation to whether or not the Government had a 22% subsidy for on-farm water storage. actually provided an additional $5m in this budget. He pointed to what he believed was Earlier this year, the coalition extended an increase in the overall budget of the QTTC the program even further by announcing that of an amount of only $1.2m. On the basis of the threshold of eligibility would be reduced that, he argued that there had not been this from constructions costing $200,000 to increase of $5m. $75,000. Industry groups welcomed this announcement, particularly the grazing and He put a number of questions—very dairy industries, the canefarmers, fruit growers carefully worded questions—to the and vegetable growers. Unfortunately, this departmental officers; the CEO of the QTTC scheme is no more. Although I acknowledge and the Director of Finance and Administration that the Government has committed to were there. For the benefit of the members of finalising those water projects already under this House, I think it is worth while actually way as a result of the policies of the former giving some indication of the responses that coalition Government, it is obvious that future were provided. I refer to the transcripts. It was construction will not receive such a priority. made abundantly clear to that member that, in fact, the budget of the QTTC, which was for Water is what will drive this State in the $47.2m, did include the $5m Asian response future. If we do not have it and if we have not grant from the previous Government. Mr Ronai provided for it, we will be so much worse off. said— This year's Budget shows that over $14m will be slashed from the budget of the former "The current Government has put Government's Category 1 water projects. another $5m towards marketing in relation to Asia and in relation to the domestic Time expired. response, and has also reaffirmed, for Dr CLARK (Barron River—ALP) another $4.5m, commitments made by (4.08 p.m.): I am particularly pleased to the previous Government." participate in the debate on the report of Mr Gregg went on to try to clarify the situation Estimates Committee G, because when I was for the member and he said— 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2739

"I think there is confusion because important issues. Once again, I will be some of our funding in the previous year watching closely to ensure that the rhetoric is was in one-off, one-year grants. For this matched by the action. The Labor year, that money has been replaced by Government's record in these areas is not the Government." good and I hope that the Minister's rhetoric is He went on— matched by some action. In common with the rest of rural "Because the previous funding was a Queensland and the shadow Minister who one-off grant, if we did not receive the $5m replacement from this Government spoke before me, I am very concerned about our actual budget would have been the rather obvious lack of commitment to the $42m. It would have been less. The $5m implementation of the report of the Water Infrastructure Task Force that was set up by has been added back into our budget. the coalition Government. The funding for the The previous funding was just for 12 construction of Category 1 projects identified in months and it was expiring at the end of that report was slashed from $21m to $7m, July. The incoming Government has and $7m will not build many projects or provide provided another $5m and has reaffirmed much in the way of badly needed infrastructure the commitments of the previous in rural and regional Queensland. It is badly Government." needed to provide the jobs and the economic This debate went on. To me it was really opportunities that come with irrigated disappointing that, even knowing the agriculture. information provided to him and having been A great example of how important the offered a briefing by the QTTC, instead of provision of irrigation infrastructure is can be accepting the answer from the departmental seen in the small community of Mundubbera people, the member for Toowoomba North in the central Burnett. I invite the Minister to travelled the length and breadth of come to Mundubbera and see for himself what Queensland, including coming to Cairns, small communities can achieve when water is creating a story which had headlines "ALP available. Unlike so many other small rural duping tourism over extra $5m". That he would communities, Mundubbera is a growing town. do something like this, I must say takes the There are new houses, urban land member down in my estimation when he knew development and new caravan parks, and full well the facts of the matter. He went public, even a backpackers hostel is currently being not allowing the facts to spoil a good story. He built. Real unemployment is almost non- wanted to dump on the Government and existent in Mundubbera. If people genuinely mislead the tourism industry. I put it to want to work, they can always get a job in the honourable members that he has lost orchards, in the packing sheds or as a field credibility with the tourist industry over this. The hand. In fact, there is a shortage of labour, industry knows the facts; it knows where this especially to meet seasonal demand. It is a money is being spent, and it is very, very real problem at times and many people travel regrettable that, when information was given to there to take advantage of the work him by officers, the member went out and opportunities in the picking season. That deliberately misrepresented the situation. season is extending as the range of crops Mr SEENEY (Callide—NPA) (4.13 p.m.): I extends from the traditional citrus out to do appreciate the opportunity to comment yet grapes, mangoes, avocados and a whole again on the report of an Estimates range of horticultural crops. All these jobs and committee. I regret that I have only five these job opportunities are based on the minutes, because there are some very availability of irrigation water. There is a important issues in this portfolio for rural tremendous potential to expand those Queensland. In particular, I would like to make industries. If the water infrastructure is provided some comments about the budgeted on the Burnett, Auburn and Boyne Rivers, expenditure program for the Department of those job opportunities will expand. Natural Resources and, for the second time The future growth of those industries, today, I would like to commend the Minister. both in Mundubbera and right throughout the Some of the answers that he gave, particularly Burnett Valley, is curtailed—restricted—by the in regard to some of the big issues in the lack of that water storage infrastructure. irrigation business—the tradeability of water Therefore, it was particularly disappointing to rights, water pricing, the COAG agreement and see that the extension of the Jones Weir at that whole issue of full cost pricing—surprised Mundubbera was delayed, awaiting the result me. I was gratified to hear the Minister's of yet another study. The Minister advised the appreciation of these very complex and Estimates committee that no projects in the 2740 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998

Burnett catchment would proceed until the time for them to attend the committee hearing. catchment study and the WAMP study are I also commend the Opposition members of completed, and that is deplorable. As well as the committee for their constructive and those two major catchment-wide studies that cooperative approach during the day. are under way at the moment, each of these The hearing ran smoothly; however, I projects has been studied individually. know that a comment was made at the end of No-one disputes the need for proper the day that we would have liked more time to planning and studies, but there is a scrutinise the budget of the Department of widespread frustration out there in my Tourism, Sport and Racing. The time went too electorate and out there in rural and regional quickly and I know that there were a lot more Queensland that these studies have become questions we wanted to ask. Next year's just another ongoing excuse not to build committee may wish to take that into anything. No-one—let me repeat: no- consideration. one—disputes the need for studies and Turning to specific issues, and starting consultation with the community to minimise with Tourism, Sport and Racing, I applaud the the costs both in economic and environmental Minister for reintroducing the funding program terms. But in the end we have to make a for the construction or upgrade of the decision. We are never going to achieve the multipurpose sport and recreation centres consensus; we are never going to reach a throughout Queensland. This was an excellent point at which everybody agrees. Sooner or program when it was first introduced in 1995 later we have to make a decision that the but, regrettably, it was chopped by the costs are worth the development, the jobs and previous Government. the opportunities that flow from these projects. These projects are worth the small cost, in Mr Lucas: A disgrace. many instances, that they bring to the Mrs LAVARCH: An absolute disgrace. At environment, and the evidence is there in the time Labor went out of office, there were places such as Mundubbera where these 87 formal submissions awaiting assessment projects have been proceeded with. under that program. I know that the If this Government is serious about jobs, if reintroduction of this program has been warmly this Minister is serious about his role—and his welcomed in my electorate. I have a large role is a very big one in producing the jobs and youth population that does not have so many the economic development in rural and places to go. Recreation centres are being regional Queensland—then I strongly urge that cried out for. The cost of building or upgrading the Category 1 projects identified in the Water multipurpose centres is enormous and beyond Infrastructure Task Force be fast-tracked and the reach of most community groups and even that a start be made on building some of local governments. This program will go a long them. way to providing these much-needed facilities. Mrs LAVARCH (Kurwongbah—ALP) I make special mention of one group in (4.19 p.m.): We will have to get a volume my electorate that is using innovative sporting control for the member for Callide. If he programs to get young people, especially continues at this rate, he will have a heart those with disabilities, job ready. John Hart and attack before the next election. Perhaps the his dedicated team at the Spectrum rest of us can have some earplugs. organisation have found that young people who are involved in sports and fitness I am pleased to be able to participate in programs gain confidence in themselves, the debate on the report of Estimates become more motivated and learn to work Committee G. Before I speak to the report, I cooperatively with others. I do not think we can will make some general comments. Firstly, I ever underestimate the benefits of being pay tribute to the Chair, the member for involved in sport, no matter at what level. Lytton, who did a marvellous job. I also thank Regrettably, this organisation's application to the committee staff. In particular I pay tribute the previous Government for assistance with to the three Ministers who had their budgets this program and for facilities was refused. scrutinised by the committee that day—the Honourable Terry Mackenroth, the Honourable Mr Lucas: Caloundra did okay. Bob Gibbs and the Honourable Rod Welford. I Mrs LAVARCH: I was going to get to that, was most impressed with the breadth and because the detail of what occurred is very depth of their knowledge of their departments. revealing and very disturbing. At the Estimates I felt that they only called on their committee hearing the Minister advised us that departmental staff to make them feel part of Caloundra received $5.5m in funding for sports the process and so that it was not a waste of facilities. Compare this with grants given to 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2741 some of the Labor electorates. Everton The Government members may have received only $4,467 and even the Minister's only a few questions pertaining to, say, liquor own electorate received only $9,311. I licensing in their 20-minute block while the understand that the electorate of Kurwongbah non-Government members may have a lot did a little better, but the amount was still only more, even carrying over into their next 20- $55,000. That is 1% of the amount spent on minute block. Either the relevant departmental sporting facilities in the electorate of the officials would then have to come back or the member for Caloundra. committee would have to split up the 20- Another disturbing fact came out in minute questioning periods. This all became relation to funding for sports and recreation very confusing, particularly for the research programs. It was revealed that $3.15m went to staff in working out just how much time was left the shooting fraternity throughout Queensland. for the Government and non-Government One sporting discipline was favoured over all members at the end of the day. I think this is other sporting disciplines. As the Minister something that can be worked out down the pointed out, the tragedy of this $3.15m being track. If the Minister does require that certain spent on the shooting fraternity—that is after departmental officers be in attendance at the Port Arthur tragedy—is that—— particular times that is fine, but I think we have to work on an improvement to the system, Time expired. particularly in an area such as Tourism, Sport Mr HEALY (Toowoomba North—NPA) and Racing, which contains some other (4.24 p.m.): I place on record my appreciation departmental people who may not be required for the way the Chairman of Estimates for the questioning. Committee G, the member for Lytton, The Minister for Tourism, Sport and conducted proceedings before, during and Racing followed exactly the same pattern as after the hearings. I think he displayed a most of the other Ministers by using the certain amount of professionalism and as a hearing to answer Dorothy Dix questions from result he gained complete cooperation from all Government members of the committee and members of the committee, including the non- to launch an attack on the previous coalition Government members. I also thank the Government and the initiatives that either were research staff for their cooperation and included in the May Budget document or had assistance. been announced as part of the lead-up to the As to the Estimates committee process in election. That is somewhat hypocritical, given general, I suppose by the time Estimates the fact that the Labor Party did not radically Committee G came around most of the change the content of the coalition's Budget mechanics were running pretty smoothly, but in fact mirrored many of its initiatives. although I do feel—I agree with the member In the couple of minutes remaining to me, for Kurwongbah—that in the future perhaps I will concentrate my comments on the Racing consideration could be given to allowing a little area of the portfolio. I will have more to say more time for the portfolio of Tourism, Sport about this subject in my speech to the motion and Racing to give a little more time for that will be debated tonight. As everybody questioning. knows, a decision will be made at the Labor Mr Lucas: Your colleagues might not Party State conference next month which agree with that. could have the most enormous ramifications on the future viability of the racing industry in Mr HEALY: They agree with it. It is a large the State—probably even since Statehood. portfolio area—I am sure the Minister will understand that—with a lot of different areas Mr Lucas: If you join the party, we will get that require examination. Another half or three- you a seat there. quarters of an hour would have allowed more Mr HEALY: You have no chance of that, time for us to examine in detail the Estimates my friend. of the various areas of portfolio responsibility. Mr Springborg: But you're still alive. Also in the area of Tourism, Sport and Mr HEALY: That is a point. We on this Racing—this is no criticism of the Minister—the side of the Chamber are still alive. The point I Minister requested that certain departmental make—I will reiterate it later tonight—is that officers be present in a particular order to this infamous catchcry of the Premier of "jobs, assist with the answering of questions jobs, jobs" will mean absolutely nothing if the pertaining to certain parts of the department. Labor Party does not agree to the privatisation That is fair enough, but a problem arises with of the TAB. If Labor members reject the 20-minute blocks allocated to both privatisation, the jobs of thousands of their Government and non-Government members. fellow Queenslanders will be immediately at 2742 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 risk. That is something they have to identify as a high-profile protector of their remember. It is about employment as well as quality of life. all of the other areas of the racing industry. In addition, we will be re-establishing— Over 25,000 people are employed in the probably as a subdepartment with its own lines racing industry in this State. If the Labor Party of accountability and reporting—the decides to reject privatisation, it will be at its Queensland National Parks and Wildlife peril. Service to be a front-line environmental Time expired. education agency, not just to manage our national parks and the natural heritage which Hon. R. J. WELFORD (Everton—ALP) they contain for future generations but also to (Minister for Environment and Heritage and provide high-quality interpretive services so Minister for Natural Resources) (4.30 p.m.): It is that all Queenslanders and, indeed, all visitors my pleasure to join in this Estimates debate. I from around the world can have the thank the chairman of the committee and the opportunity to understand and enjoy the great members of the committee for their very diversity of flora and fauna within our national thorough examination of the Estimates for my parks. $5m was earmarked as a new initiative two departments. I also thank the Opposition this year in the budget for capital works in spokesman for his constructive participation in national parks, including new walkways and the debate, although I must say—as I am amenities. This will be on top of the roughly about to point out—that there are a number of $4.25m of combined base funding and errors in the assertions that he has been unspent moneys from last year. So a total of making. And as to some of the statements more than $9m will be injected into capital that he has been making in the media—I works in our national parks this year. That is would not for a moment suggest that he was probably the biggest single expenditure on deliberately saying things that he knows to be capital works for national parks ever. untrue, but the fact is that many of the things that he has said are untrue, and I will come to Key environmental priorities also include those in a moment. improving air quality and water quality, reducing greenhouse emissions with a $1.5m The two departments under my portfolio allocation to address climate change issues have between them a budget of just over over the next four years, and a special $800m—$188.5m for the Department of allocation to address coastal protection and Environment and Heritage and $611.9m for coastal management issues, which will be part the Department of Natural Resources. The of the important environmental planning funding that we are providing to these two function of the new EPA. departments will carry out a very important The Department of Natural Resources, as role, and bringing the departments together other members have indicated and as gives us an opportunity to achieve some members opposite who have rural synergies and economies of scale from having constituencies would well appreciate, has a the departments work more closely together. very important role in providing water We have been able to do that, in a sense, by infrastructure and managing the other maintaining the previous Government's resources of rural areas—land and vegetation. budget, but probably not increasing it to the The budget of the Department of Natural extent that I would have desired or, indeed, Resources has not been cut in any of the some of the constituencies that rely on the respects that Opposition members have work of these two departments might have suggested. The figures that they used in desired. But the budget will, of course, grow in relation to cuts in funding for water future years. Nevertheless, we have retained infrastructure seem to be plucked out of the some very important initiatives in both air. The Opposition spokesperson used one portfolios, and I would like to outline a couple batch of figures, and the member for Callide of them now. used another batch of figures, but none of Firstly, we have already made a start on them squared up and none of them were the establishment of the Environmental accurate. The allegations made about cuts in Protection Agency which, contrary to the funding for water infrastructure are simply media statements that the Opposition keeps untrue. releasing, is not a new layer of regulatory What has happened is that some of the bureaucracy; it is, indeed, a transformation of budget that still exists has been put into the the existing department into a much more out years, that is, it is well acknowledged—and industry focused and a much more proactive the previous Government was simply inflating agency which members of the public will artificially the figures it was putting in the 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2743 budget in an unrealistic expectation that that for about six months and we would go down money would actually be spent; but the money the gurgler very quickly. is all still there in the budget, and it will be The Minister for Tourism, Sport and spent in future years. Racing is still in the Chamber. I think he has Time expired. been waiting for an excuse to make a comment during this debate, but he has not Mr STEPHAN (Gympie—NPA) found one yet. His department is very (4.35 p.m.): The Minister has just said that important, particularly because of the subsidies there has not been a cut in funding. However, that it provides to sporting clubs. There is no he has not actually been spending very much doubt in my mind that this has had a great money on some of these programs, either. I influence on many clubs throughout the State. refer to a couple of small projects in my It has helped them to upgrade their buildings electorate, such as the raising of the level of and grounds and to provide lighting at various the Cedar Pocket Dam and the pumping in of centres where daytime and night-time sports Gympie's water supply. I have not heard events are held. Although the funding that anything from the Minister about those some of those clubs have received is not projects, and I will be looking for affirmative necessarily great, it provides incentives to correspondence in that regard. younger people and others who are taking part Mr Gibbs: Do you still give elocution in sports and ensures that they can take part lessons? in the sports of their choice. That certainly Mr STEPHAN: No, I am learning from the makes a great difference to the viability of Minister, actually. I would not worry too much many country sporting centres. about that. Time expired. I turn now to the proposal for a Mary Mr REYNOLDS (Townsville—ALP) Burnett Centre for Water Sustainability, which (4.39 p.m.): I rise in support of the Estimates has been put forward by people in the Committee G report and congratulate the industry. I commend them for their interest and chairman of that Estimates committee, the support. The proposal for a Mary Burnett member for Lytton, on the excellent work that Centre for Water Sustainability brings a he and the committee did in scrutinising the regional focus to an issue of critical importance budget requirements for the departments that to the future economic viability and quality of come under the scrutiny of Estimates life in the Wide Bay region. The centre will not Committee G. One particular aspect of the be a decision-making body, but it will focus on report in regard to planning within the knowledge and education and communication Department of Communication and skills. The activities supported and the Information, Local Government and Planning programs developed will have a regional focus, is of particular interest to me. The report but the centre will develop State, national and states— international networks. "The goal of the Planning program is Water sustainability will not be viewed in to ensure sustainable development isolation. It does not matter where we come through integrated planning, that from; we need to take notice of that particular balances social, economic and aspect because, in many instances, we are environmental considerations." using water but we do not really know where it I will take this opportunity to commend the is coming from. There is a lot of work to do in committee, the department and the Minister that sector, particularly in relation to the on the work that is being envisaged to be underground water system. I do not believe done in the forthcoming budget year. that much has been done to look for I would also take this opportunity to talk underground water supplies. In some areas it about the launch of the Townsville/Thuringowa is very intense. strategic plan, which I launched on behalf of I turn now to highlight the problems the Minister in Townsville a couple of weeks pertaining to weeds and weed control. ago. Members would be aware that I am a strong supporter of regional planning in Mr Springborg: Rat-tail grass. Queensland, particularly in the area of Mr STEPHAN: Rat-tail grass is only one of Townsville and Thuringowa. I am very pleased them. I ask the Minister not to forget about with the way regional planning has been that program. He should make sure that it is embraced, not only by Governments but also controlled as much as possible. Although it is by regional stakeholders and the community. being controlled reasonably well—and I say There is a growing recognition that cooperative that with all sincerity—we need only to let it go regional planning is the most sensible way to 2744 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 deal with growth management, resource and cost-effective manner. At the same time, allocation and environmental conservation the attractiveness and liveability of the region issues. I am very proud to be able to say that must be maintained. Above all, there are now eight regional planning Townsville/Thuringowa must be proactive if it is exercises in Queensland coming under the to shape its own future. The cooperative, control of the Minister. Most of those have consultative type of regional planning we have been at the request of local government with adopted in Queensland has had a few the support of their communities. detractors in some planning circles. They say I stress the enormous potential of the that it is not strong enough or that it is too Townsville/Thuringowa region. The twin cities bureaucratic. It is interesting to note the level of Townsville and Thuringowa have an of interest and support from other States as to established role as the largest urban centre how Queensland is planning its regions. It is outside of south-east Queensland. They an open process that encourages participation comprise a major transport and export and increases the likelihood of obtaining the gateway and industrial and service centre for best balance between economic, social and north Queensland, the Pacific rim and beyond. environmental objectives. I applaud the Even in the difficult economic times planning process that has been examined occasioned by Asia's problems, there is good through the Estimates committee. The reason to be confident when one considers Townsville and Thuringowa region can only be the assets, the quality of life and the economic better for it. potential of that area. I know that regional Time expired. planning will play a substantial role in guiding Mr SPRINGBORG (Warwick—NPA) decision making to realise desirable future (4.45 p.m.): In opening I will comment on an outcomes for the Townsville/ Thuringowa issue that was raised in a contribution by the region. It will also be a vehicle to promote honourable member for Kurwongbah in confidence in the future of the area and an relation to the funding of some of our shooting un der st and ing as to h ow organisations around Queensland. We Townsville/Thuringowa will grow and develop. witnessed the beat-up during the Estimates That has been sustained through proper and committee process and in the Parliament consistent regional planning for the area. today about how unfair that was alleged to Once complete, The have been. I support very much the Townsville/Thuringowa strategy plan document responsibility of Government in ensuring that should provide a framework within which the we have proper facilities for our shooting complex interactions between the economic, organisations. In the post Port Arthur period, a social and environmental elements of the lot of our decent shooters went through an region can be recognised and managed. Over extremely traumatic period. I am sure that the the next two decades, the population of Minister would appreciate that. We saw a Townsville/Thuringowa is likely to grow by growth in many of the shooting clubs around some 46,000 people. At the same time, the Queensland. Those clubs were wanting to put region can expect to expand and diversify its in place decent and proper facilities for their economic base and its role as the primary members. It is very important to ensure that, if industrial and service centre in north we encourage people to join rifle clubs, pistol Queensland. As we know, growth and clubs or clay target clubs as a legitimate development places increased demands on reason for the ownership of a firearm, we need infrastructure and services, the natural to ensure that those people have the facilities environment and the region's human capital. It to properly vindicate their right to use a firearm. is critical, therefore, that future development That is extremely important. Therefore, I very occurs in a sustainable fashion commensurate much support the actions of the former with the region's environmental values, lifestyle Minister in supporting our shooting opportunities and the aspirations of its people. organisations around Queensland in obtaining The planning process ensures that the reasonable and decent facilities for their consultation process and the process of members to use. working with the stakeholders include those I will touch on the Estimates of the inherent values. Minister for Natural Resources and the Minister It is important that continued prosperity for Environment and Heritage. I was a Minister needs to be assured through economic growth in the Department of Natural Resources for a and investor confidence. Infrastructure to brief period. That is an extremely challenging support future economic and community portfolio. A lot of people do not realise that, development needs to be planned ahead of when considering the issues of land titling and time so that it can be provided in an efficient the effect of infrastructure development and 22 Oct 1998 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 2745 resource management, a whole range of very to continue down that line. Obviously the interesting and important issues start to come prerogative is his and the department's. In in: for example, the greenhouse response, some ways, I believe the process that we put catchment management and planning, water in place was not necessarily appreciated and allocation management and planning, tree was unjustly maligned, because it did clearing, and water management planning as recognise an important principle. in the case of Cooper Creek. A wide range and Time expired. a whole raft of issues are involved. From time to time, those issues prove to be challenging. Hon. R. J. GIBBS (Bundamba—ALP) (Minister for Tourism, Sport and Racing) I hope that the Minister continues the (4.49 p.m.): Firstly, I wish to express the view actions of the former Government in relation to that I have held for quite a few years that I am the catchment planning process that was put not a particular admirer of the Estimates in place by the Water Infrastructure Task committee system. After being a member of Force. We set about properly identifying the this place throughout the years the system has sites for new infrastructure in Queensland in been operating, I have come to wonder what it areas that could actually sustain dams. We achieves. We often hear the term were not just constructing dams or weirs on a "accountability" used in this place. However, I whim. I think that process was good, because tell members now that, in terms of it leads us to examine the catchments to accountability, I do not believe that this whole establish how much water was in them and process that we go through means much to how many of the projects that may have been my constituents, who are more interested in suggested for that area could be constructed issues other than those mentioned during the some time down the track. Estimates process. I say that for a number of The St George issue is challenging for the reasons. I realise the great effort that goes Minister. Although we still had some towards the preparation of these Estimates controversy, many aspects of what I was within my own department. For example, some putting in place were drawing to a conclusion. I evenings there were people working until 2 wish the Minister all the very best in getting all a.m. the next day preparing for this exercise. the parties together. It is a very difficult issue. However, I have never considered the In relation to Stage 1, there is no doubt that Estimates committees to be anything more that can soon be ready to go. In my final than a blood sport. negotiations with Mr Cooper regarding Stage 2, I think we were on the verge of reaching a I certainly congratulate the member for Lytton on the way in which he chaired the reasonably amicable agreement on a scaled- committee. I take great comfort in the following down version. There were some issues that point that he makes in his foreword— were no doubt outstanding. That matter had gone on for eight years. How much longer "The committee believes the could we let something like that go on for? It individual skill of members in interpreting has dogged a lot of Ministers. It dogged my the budget papers and asking pertinent honourable colleague and friend the member questions will always be the underlying for Warrego. If we were to sit back and decide reason for success of the estimates to review the issue once again, we would process." never get anywhere. It certainly disappointed me to see I will briefly touch on the issue of the Opposition members come to that committee Cooper Creek water management plan and who, quite frankly, were not across the portfolio encourage the Minister to continue considering programs and had very little knowledge of the the draft plan that we put in place, which I facts contained within the Budget papers. That believe was a fairly good draft plan for was borne out by the abysmal performance of consultation. Once again, that issue involved a the member for Toowoomba North, who simply balancing act. Before we started considering could not seem to absorb the fact that there the issue of a water management plan for that had been a $5m increase by this Government area, nothing was regulating the level of in the budget of the Queensland Tourist and extraction other than the normal licensing Travel Corporation. The member for Barron process. I know that some people in that area River was quite correct: he went the length and have differing views. At least for the first time breadth of Queensland uttering untruths about we recognise that a cap should be put in place the Budget and, much to his embarrassment, with a maximum level of extraction based on a he now realises that what he was saying was subcatchment basis. That is important. I incorrect. There should be some process believe we had in place a reasonable template whereby the Opposition members can come to for the Minister to start with. I encourage him some understanding of the rudimentary 2746 Appropriation (Parliament) Bill; Appropriation Bill 22 Oct 1998 fundamentals of the Budget before they come Queensland to stop the plundering of to the Estimates committees. Queenslanders' money, which went over the The member for Warwick referred to the border and into the coffers of the New South firearms issue. I am not against people Wales Government. That has paid handsome legitimately joining sporting clubs because they dividends for our sporting organisations. If want to participate in the sport of shooting. there is one regret, it is that poker machines That is a recognised and legitimate pastime. were kept out of this State for years because The point that I made at the Estimates of corruption and underhand payments. committee was that, over the past 18 months, Time expired. an extraordinary amount of money has gone into shooting clubs. Of course, it is no Mr HOBBS (Warrego—NPA) (4.55 p.m.): coincidence that that happened at a time Firstly, I want to say that the committee worked when the National Party was doing its best to very well. I thank all the committee members defend its support base in the bush. Although as well as the staff and the public servants, it is true to say that there was a massive who were able to answer some questions at growth in the number of members of shooting various times. I thank also the Minister for his clubs, the participation rates in those clubs professional approach to the Estimates this declined. It was nothing more than a cheap year. I believe that he did it in a very political exercise of encouraging people to join professional way, and it was quite good. He shooting clubs so that they could keep their had difficulty with his voice, and I wish him all weapons. That is what it was all about. By the best with his health in the future. encouraging people to join shooting clubs so The Minister for Tourism, Sport and that they could keep their weapons, the Racing questioned the benefits of the organisations were rewarded with massive Estimates committee process. To a certain grants. degree, I question them as well. I have no A concern was expressed at the problem with going through the process, but at committee in relation to the review under the the end of the day all it really does is sharpen National Competition Policy of the liquor up the members and the department. It costs licensing laws of Queensland. I have given probably $1m for each department to go certain commitments in that regard. However, through the process, which involves bringing there is one commitment that I am not going staff from all over Queensland. At the end of to give, and I want to make that clear here the day, what do we get? I ask members: over today, as I did when I addressed the annual the past two weeks, what have we achieved? dinner and awards function of the Queensland During the Estimates process, for a couple of Hotels Association last night. The previous nights the news headlines related to the Government had a tendency to react to issues Education portfolio and $2,000 worth of that it believed would be vote catching or lunches somewhere and a night spent in popular. Despite the attitude expressed at the Townsville on a training issue relating to the recent local government conference, I want to Department of Mines and Energy. I referred to make it very clear that I am not going to be a $10.8m pork-barrelling bid by this part of any move to reduce trading hours on Government to get Lorraine Bird re-elected. the evenings of Anzac Day, Good Friday, or However, that did not even rate a mention in Christmas Eve. The simple reality is that, if we the news. At the end of the day, I wonder what did that, we would become the laughing-stock benefit the Estimates process offers of this country. We are a major tourist Queensland. During this process, what was destination in our own right. Only two States in exposed? If one considers the news broadcast Australia restrict trading, and they are of the Estimates, nothing! As the Minister said, Tasmania and Western Australia. Our liquor all the media is interested in is the politics of it, licensing laws are now recognised as among anyway. the very best in this nation. It is certainly not my intention to change them simply because I wish to refer to a few issues that relate to the Department of Local Government and some yobbo happened to disturb a dawn Planning. I believe that the Minister has service somewhere in Queensland and the inadequately funded the contaminated landfill former Premier happened to be offended by it. sites section. That is a very, very important I am proud to note the massive growth in issue for local authorities to address. It will cost the Sport budget. When Labor came into them something like $500m over the next 10 office in 1989, the Sport budget was $6m. This years. Although the allocation of $2.5m for year, it is $94.25m—a massive increase owing 1998-99 and $5m for 1999-2000—a total of to the foresight of the Government of the time $7m—is something, I believe that in that of introducing poker machines into second year it will be very, very much short of 22 Oct 1998 Transport Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 2747 what is required. In the first year, the TRANSPORT LEGISLATION AMENDMENT Government may get away with that level of BILL (No. 2) funding because it takes a while for any group Hon. S. D. BREDHAUER (Cook—ALP) to get together professional people to do the (Minister for Transport and Minister for Main studies, call tenders and things like that. So Roads) (5.02 p.m.), by leave, without notice: I the Government may squeak through with that move— level of funding in the first year. However, it certainly will not in the following year. The "That leave be granted to bring in a coalition estimated something along the lines Bill for an Act to amend Acts administered of $20m a year, which was what it would have by the Minister for Transport and Minister been prepared to put into that program. for Main Roads, and for other purposes." Obviously, that funding would have been on a Motion agreed to. sliding scale. So down the track we will be requiring quite a lot more funding for contaminated landfill sites. First Reading I referred previously to the $10.8m for the Bill and Explanatory Notes presented and Bowen Shire, which was really nothing more Bill, on motion of Mr Bredhauer, read a first than a pork-barrelling exercise. Anyway, during time. the Estimates committee hearing I also said, "Good luck to the Bowen Shire." I understand that Councillor Brunker was a bit upset with me Second Reading for even raising the matter. However, I think Hon. S. D. BREDHAUER (Cook—ALP) that he probably got the wrong impression of (Minister for Transport and Minister for Main what I said from the media. It was something Roads) (5.03 p.m.): I move— in which I was rather interested. If that shire can obtain $10.8m to reduce its rates, to "That the Bill be now read a second reduce its sewerage costs, to reduce its water time." charges and to reduce its debt and create The objective of this Bill is to provide for a employment, what are the guidelines for such range of amendments to a number of Acts funding so that other shires can participate as administered by my Department of Transport. well? They are the Traffic Act 1949, the Transport Another important issue that was raised (Gladstone East End to Harbour Corridor) Act and that we probably need to talk about a little 1996, the Transport Infrastructure Act 1994 more is private certification and the associated and the Transport Operations (Passenger costs to the housing industry. In fact, private Transport) Act 1994. These statutes deal certifiers can save Queenslanders $40m per respectively with traffic management, transport year. That is quite a substantial amount, planning, transport infrastructure and public especially when one considers that transport issues. They are of importance to approximately 70,000 houses are built each Queenslanders throughout the State and year in Queensland. Those savings can be impact on each of us to differing degrees. The made if private enterprise takes over use of an omnibus Transport Legislation certification for the building code and Amendment Bill means necessary plumbing. That is a big saving for new home amendments to legislation can be owners. We must assist local governments in conveniently made in one Bill. It is in fact the reviewing the charges and reaching a stage at second Bill of its kind that I have introduced which a changeover can occur. There may into the House this year. This Bill facilitates the need to be an inquiry into fees and charges. improvement of a number of policy areas and The Minister assured me that at the moment the delivery of important reforms that will help the department is talking with local the Government reach its 5% unemployment government to see how that is going, but we target by stimulating the development of may have to do something a bit harsher than employment opportunities in Queensland. that. This Bill amends the Traffic Act 1949 to Report adopted. alter the law as it currently exists with respect Clauses 1 to 5, as read, agreed to. to the seizure and removal of vehicles and Schedules 1 and 2, as read, agreed to. animals from roads. At present this can be Bills reported, without amendment. conducted only by Queensland Police Service members. This amendment will allow a local authority to seize a vehicle on a road that has Third Reading been abandoned by the last person who drove Bills, on motion of Mr Hamill, by leave, it, or to seize a vehicle on a road that is read a third time. creating, or is likely to create, a danger or 2748 Transport Legislation Amendment Bill (No. 2) 22 Oct 1998 obstruction to other road users and the driver Development project, SUDAW. This project is cannot be readily located or that person fails to estimated by the Department of State immediately remove it when required to do so Development to potentially generate 1,000 by the local authority. Similar provisions exist in new permanent jobs and thousands of flow-on relation to animals on roads. These changes jobs throughout the State. will benefit both the Queensland Police Service In addition, the Transport Infrastructure and Queensland's local authorities by Act 1994 will also be amended by this Bill to extending to local authorities the powers of alleviate difficulties encountered by project seizure and removal of vehicles and animals proponents and financiers of miscellaneous from our roads. transport infrastructure corridors, for example, This Bill also seeks to amend the pipelines and conveyors. For example, this Bill Transport (Gladstone East End to Harbour will alleviate difficulties where a proposed Corridor) Act 1996. Members would be aware miscellaneous transport infrastructure corridor that this Act facilitated the QCL development crosses an existing road or rail corridor. in Gladstone. In that case, a rail corridor was Currently, where this occurs the corridor ceases necessary to allow QCL efficient access to at the side of the road or railway and resumes expand its capacity at its Gladstone on the other side, and permits must be operations. By establishing the rail corridor, this obtained for the intersecting land through Act avoided the unacceptable expansion of negotiation with the relevant local government heavy vehicle road use in Gladstone. Of or State authority. There is no compulsion on course, the previous Labor Government these agencies to even negotiate, let alone helped to facilitate this project so that coral come to an agreement on the terms of the dredging could be stopped in Moreton Bay. crossing. Consequently, the integrity of the This Act was passed by the previous corridor is viewed by major utility providers as Government, with reservations expressed by being insecure, discouraging investment in my colleague the Deputy Premier and Minister their provision. The amendments proposed by for State Development and Minister for Trade, this Bill establish a mechanism for negotiating who was then the shadow Transport Minister, the establishment of the crossing through and was supported by Labor members when existing corridors. Procedures are also in Opposition. The Bill proposes amendments established to allow my colleague the Deputy that will clarify property descriptions for land Premier and Minister for State Development acquisition that has already taken place. The and Minister for Trade to facilitate the approval clarification of the property descriptions will only of the crossing if required. Naturally, any affect local Government-owned properties and approval granted will be with conditions, as will not affect any privately owned land. The required. In effect, the means for arbitration proposed amendments are retrospective to over these conditions will also be firmly the date of assent of the Transport (Gladstone established. East End to Harbour Corridor) Act 1996 and The amendments to the Transport are put forward only on the basis that they Infrastructure Act 1994 contained in this Bill clarify property descriptions for land acquisition exempt the Minister making the decision to that has already taken place. The Government grant or refuse an approval from the Judicial understands concerns about the intended and Review Act 1991. Consequently, the Judicial unintended consequences of retrospective Review Act 1991 is amended to reflect this legislation. However, in this case the effect of situation. Similar provisions were enacted in retrospectivity is to correct the legislative the Transport (Gladstone East End To Harbour record. The amendments made by this Bill do Corridor) Act 1996. This is not done lightly. The not in any way affect a person's civil liberties need to ensure legislation that is capable of and rights. promptly and efficiently responding to the Further amendments to the Transport transport infrastructure requirements of the Infrastructure Act 1994 will enable proponents State requires that judicial review be excluded. of railways in Queensland to access land for It needs to be emphasised that the exemption investigating the feasibility of future railway of judicial review is circumscribed and subject options. These amendments facilitate to important safeguards. At the outset it development of new rail corridors in should be noted that the exemption will only Queensland without the proponents of these affect Government or Government owned new corridors having to be accredited railway corporation land. operators at the feasibility study stage. All Finally, and most importantly, to ensure a future proponents of a railway will benefit, but properly accountable decision is made it is a immediate results will flow to the proponents of requirement that a statement of reasons for the Surat/Dawson Valley Infrastructure the decision be tabled in this House within 14 22 Oct 1998 Building and Construction Industry (Portable Long Service Leave) Amendment Bill 2749 sitting days. These amendments will benefit all The facts are that because of my desire Queenslanders through their facilitation of to fully comprehend the Estimates committee infrastructure development in this State and process, on two non-consecutive days I did reflect this Government's determination to travel from Kingaroy to attend as an observer. increase the number of jobs available in I resent the Minister's implication that I have Queensland. not been interested or diligent. Even more, I This Bill also amends the Integrated resent the fact that the Minister has so little Planning Act 1997 to ensure that minor works integrity that she has either deliberately misled associated with rail feasibility studies are not the House or holds the truth in so little esteem subject to this Act. Lastly, the Transport that she has, as have other members of the Operations (Passenger Transport) Act 1994 is House, used "The Bottom Line" as her amended to close a loophole by clarifying that reference material. charter buses and taxis are very different modes of public passenger transport and have BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY different rights and responsibilities. Several (PORTABLE LONG SERVICE LEAVE) charter bus operators have been able to act AMENDMENT BILL much like taxis while not having to meet the Second Reading significant social justice role that taxis play in exchange for protection from competition. This Resumed from 20 October (see p. 2571). has, of course, disadvantaged taxi service Mr BEANLAND (Indooroopilly—LP) operators. Under the amendments, charter (5.12 p.m.), continuing: I rise to continue the bus operators will not be restricted from debate on this piece of legislation, which was running a charter bus service but they will have adjourned a couple of days ago. There are a restrictions that will effectively prevent them number of very important issues in relation to from acting like taxis. this matter, one of which I was touching upon The amendment in fact allows for the when this debate was adjourned in the House removal of an existing restriction on charter the other day, namely, the raiding of hollow bus operators which prohibits operators from logs. providing a charter bus service for a group of This legislation seeks to give the Minister less than six people where the area in which the power to raid yet another hollow log. Labor the operator provides the service has a made a complete mess of the Workers population less than 10,000. In summary, this Compensation Fund. That is now history. It Bill amends legislation administered by my obviously now wants to get its hands on the department in a way which will benefit all Portable Long Service Leave Authority, to Queenslanders through the delivery of which major reforms were made by the infrastructure and by contributing to coalition. The funding for the scheme is employment growth in the State and financed by a levy imposed on construction particularly regional Queensland. I commend work with a project value worth some $42,000 the Bill to the House. or more. At the time of its introduction, the levy rate was 0.5% for projects valued at $40,000 Debate, on motion of Mr Beanland, or more. After some gradual reductions in adjourned. previous years, the coalition reduced the levy to 0.15% in 1997. At the time of this reduction, the then Minister, the honourable member for PRIVILEGE Clayfield, stated— Attendance at Estimates Hearings, Member "... this levy rate reduction will provide a for Barambah direct benefit to the building and Mrs PRATT (Barambah—ONP) (Deputy construction industry as it will reduce the Leader of the One Nation Party) (5.11 p.m.): I impost on clients of the industry by $4.3m rise on a matter of privilege suddenly arising. I per year without affecting benefits to have been criticised in this House today for not employees coming under the scheme or being involved in the Estimates committee using the fund's surplus as a funding process. One Nation was offered only one source." position, which we filled. The Minister for The coalition treated this scheme as a form of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Policy and security for workers in the building industry, not Minister for Women's Policy and Minister for as a hollow log that could be raided at the Fair Trading has accused me of not attending whim of the Government of the day. The any of the hearings. The Minister has misled coalition funded skills shortages initiatives out the House with that statement. of consolidated revenue, and Labor has not. 2750 Building and Construction Industry (Portable Long Service Leave) Amendment Bill 22 Oct 1998

Importantly, that is a significant difference. We would be fine. However, this is not the normal all remember the situation. That was confirmed course of events. A raid is taking place— in Labor's Budget. $35m was put into the something that we have seen so often in this Workers Compensation Fund, now WorkCover. place in relation to other funds. That followed a $35m injection two years ago It is worth while noting that the legislation by the incoming National/Liberal coalition had to apply from 1 October. I notice in the Government and, of course $35m, last year. A amendments that have been circulated—at total of $105m has been poured into the least I think they have been circulated—that Workers Compensation Fund, now WorkCover, that has now been changed. Obviously, the out of consolidated revenue to bail it out after Minister had some problem in getting the it was raided. We are seeing the same thing legislation into Parliament in accordance with again in this instance. We are now seeing the timetable. If the Bill was so important, one another raid. would have expected that at least he would Members of the Government can point to have been able to have the matter processed the healthy condition of the Portable Long through this place in the normal course of Service Leave Fund today. However, world events. That has not even occurred and there financial markets—not so much Australia's— have had to be some amendments. are highly volatile at the moment, and that will The coalition did fund skill shortage have an effect on this country and no doubt initiatives out of consolidated revenue. We on this fund. One cannot say with any certainty need to be very concerned about just what is that the fund will remain in its healthy state in taking place. Is the Government not prepared the long term, given the current state of to put up funds for this area of activity? We financial markets. In the future, unforeseen have heard so much from the Government circumstances might mean that this authority about jobs, jobs, jobs. What was it? "Last thing will require all of its funds. at night, first thing in the morning." If it was the If the Government wishes to put aside last thing at night and the first thing in the more funds out of consolidated revenue for morning, it has very quickly been given a fairly various training programs, so be it. It can do low priority in that suitable funding has not so. There is nothing stopping it. But raiding this been made available in this area. I notice that hollow log—something for which the former this Budget has allocated $25m less for capital Goss Government was so famous—will spell works than what the National/Liberal coalition disaster in due course. This raises another had in its May capital works budget. So much important issue, namely, that the independent for that! There was an opportunity there to trustees will not be audited by the Auditor- generate jobs and opportunities for people General. I understand that they will be audited with skills and to help people gain additional by someone else. That they will not be skills by being trained. It must ring alarm bells monitored by the Auditor-General is a matter for the building industry that the Government is of grave concern. After all, who knows what going about this matter in this way. It is "independent trustees" means? That can something that should be of major concern to mean anything. The Minister will appoint the all those opposite. trustees. I am not saying that they will be close In relation to this piece of legislation, I friends of the Minister, but they may be people would have expected that some detail would who are from the Labor side who wish to have been revealed as to the numbers who ensure that the Government continues to have are going to be trained and the jobs that are input into this area. That is fine. However, we going to be created in the long term through all know what happened in certain this process, yet none of that has been States—Victoria and South Australia—when revealed in this particular piece of legislation at banks were allowed to go unchecked when all. It seems to reveal that the Minister has no they should have been brought to heel long strategy—none at all—in place to reduce before they were. So we could end up getting unemployment. We are certainly not getting into a serious situation in relation to this fund. that through this piece of legislation. We are That is simply not good enough in this told that it is so important yet, if it cannot show day and age. The Labor Party in Government what the benefits are going to be at the end of elsewhere has been caught before and is the day through long-term job creation, one walking into a similar trap in relation to this has to question what the purpose of this matter. This raises a range of serious issues in legislation is except to milk the cow and raid people's minds. People have every reason to the hollow log so that the Government can get question where this Government is heading. If its hands on additional funds, because the money was coming out of the Consolidated relevant Minister has been singularly Fund in the normal course of events, that unsuccessful in convincing Cabinet, Treasury 22 Oct 1998 Building and Construction Industry (Portable Long Service Leave) Amendment Bill 2751 and the Treasurer that he should have The Department, through the additional funds to spend in this particular area Vocational Education, Training and for training initiatives. Employment Corporation, contributed In speaking of that, I should say that the $4.304 million to the establishment and Government will need many initiatives—more maintenance of the Queensland than what we are seeing here in this Construction Industry Skills Centre fund legislation—to bring down the unemployment represented by— figure to 5% over three years. The facts are $4 million for property purchase ... that the figure has grown in recent times. It is $0.250 million for the purchase of one thing to create opportunities for skills and equipment; and training—we certainly need all of that—but it is another again to put in place long-term jobs, $0.054 million for a contamination job opportunities and job security for people. survey on the site. This piece of legislation is deficient in a As no audited statements had been number of very important areas, areas in which received to support the expenditure from I believe the people of Queensland have every the Department's appropriations and the right to get some indication from the Minister uncertainty of taxation issues not resolved as to exactly what the bail-out arrangements in respect of the College of Warehousing, will be when this fund gets into trouble. He has I qualified my audit certificate ..." to give some indication and some commitment The same senior departmental officers and to this Parliament in this debate as to what is other officials who were responsible for that going to be the situation. Surely this unsatisfactory situation are now driving the Government is not going to let this fund agenda to focus construction training at this deteriorate to the extent of the problems a centre. It is little wonder that this side of the number of years ago with the Workers Chamber has these concerns when we see Compensation Fund—now WorkCover—which this sort of situation. Again the same people needed a direct input of $105m over three are in charge who were in charge previously, years out of consolidated revenue before and these problems can easily come up again. doing something about it. Surely there will not I am sure that if it is left to the people at the need to be a change of Government, with the helm currently, they will certainly do just that. National/Liberal coalition coming to power, before this fund is bailed out. We do not want In that situation millions of dollars were to get into that situation because it is not good collected through this backdoor approach and for the long-term benefit of this State or for the then control of these moneys was vested in small businesspeople out there, and it is independent trustees. The Minister needs to give this House a few assurances, as I have certainly not good for those people who are in already indicated, in relation to independent the training field and those who are being trustees. We are going down the same trail trained and gaining skills and long-term job again that we have been down previously. opportunities. It is to no-one's benefit and to Wherever one looks, one sees that it is a no-one's long-term gain for that sort of repeat of what has gone on previously under situation to occur. Therefore, it is important the former Labor Government. It is repetition. that we get some commitments and We see it in other States and we see it here indications from the Minister as to exactly what time and time again. There seems to be a will happen in relation to this matter. problem when it comes to managing the The Minister raised a number of other taxpayers' funds in these particular areas. matters in relation to this. One such matter relates to the Construction Industry Skills It is worth while noting also that the Centre joint venture. In a report back in 1995, Minister and his leader have been unable to the Auditor-General was very critical of the way get right some of the simple arithmetic to in which the then Government was operating match up what are essentially straightforward this particular centre. He said— items to show the transparency of the financial operations. In the second-reading speech, the "The Construction Industry Skills Minister says— Centre joint venture was established to provide high quality building and "The amount involved under the construction industry related training and current activity levels will be approximately skills enhancement in which industry, $5.4m in the first year of operation. The unions and TAFE Queensland aim to fund will be administered by Construction deliver training and skills focused on the Training Queensland ..." industry's needs and employment However, in a speech to the Construction 2001 outcomes. conference last October, Mr Beattie said— 2752 Building and Construction Industry (Portable Long Service Leave) Amendment Bill 22 Oct 1998

"Around half of the $4m raised Mr MICKEL (Logan—ALP) (5.29 p.m.): through the levy would be used as The Building and Construction Industry incentives to employ apprentices." (Portable Long Service Leave) Amendment Bill There is a slight disparity even in those figures: 1998 has to be supported. The figures $5.4m and $4m. Surely it cannot be fully provided in the second-reading speech show accounted for by an increase in collections by that between 1993 and 1996 spending on the Portable Long Service Leave Authority training in the industry fell from 1.63% to during the period since October 1997 when 1.38% of gross payroll nationally. This the member for Brisbane Central, the then amounted to $14m. This represented a fall of honourable Leader of the Opposition made approximately 30% in investment in training by those statements and when the Minister made employers. The worrying thing is that those statements today. There is quite a Queensland accounted for $8m of that significant disparity. national decline, or 56%. Those figures are sobering, and I am glad to see the Minister for Similar differences in arithmetic occur Employment, Training and Industrial Relations throughout. We are concerned that those and the Government taking positive action. differences do not come back to bite the The funds will be available through moneys taxpayers of this State, as we have seen so that are surplus to the requirements of the often, and as we saw with WorkCover—the Portable Long Service Leave Fund. This is a workers compensation scheme. At the end of good scheme which has industry support, and the day, it is small businesses that will have to it deserves our support. pick it up, unless it comes out of consolidated revenue. As the money came out of Yesterday, when referring to Breaking the consolidated revenue, it was the taxpayers Unemployment Cycle, I think it was the who bailed out the WorkCover scheme. Had Premier who alerted us to the shortage of that not occurred, small businesses would boilermakers, requiring people to be brought in have had to. The taxpayers' contribution of from, I think, Korea. That is a shameful $35m a year has not been recognised as situation. As I have pointed out previously, my saving small business from that particular electorate has the second-lowest percentage onslaught of costs that would have occurred in of people with skills. By "skills" I do not mean a that instance. university degree; I mean a trade qualification. Anything that can be done to improve that There are similar differences when the situation and to provide opportunities to gain honourable member for Kedron, the Minister, skills for those young people and young and the Premier discussed Labor's radical families in my electorate will have my total proposal to let contracts for 150 public houses support. to be built under the Housing Industry Trade Training Scheme, thereby enabling Labor to I also refer to the TAFE system. I know match the coalition allocation of housing to this that the Minister is taking a great interest in the particular scheme. repair of TAFE. When he was the shadow Minister he came down to the Logan TAFE—I I could go on at length, but I think that I had the pleasure of accompanying him on that have already shown the very significant day—and he encountered quite a disgraceful concerns that this side of the House has situation. We found that the acting TAFE because of the failings we have seen over and director in Logan was muzzled that day. She over again when these people in the Labor was not able to speak freely at all because the Party are running these programs. The funding then Minister, the member for Clayfield, had problems that they experience speak for told her that she was not to speak to the then themselves. It is obvious that they did not shadow Minister. That was a shameful throw in $105m out of Labor Party funds for muzzling of the Public Service. WorkCover. It is little wonder that we are concerned about seeing the taxpayers having The person sent to preside over this to pick up the tab each time. meeting was a very respected public servant, Stan Sielaff. What was his reward for presiding We believe that this Bill is totally over this? After the then Premier gave an unnecessary. The funding for this training undertaking that no more public servants should clearly come out of consolidated would be sacked, Mr Sielaff was one of the revenue. I think that this highlights that the ones sacked by the then Minister. That was his Minister is simply not up to the job. He has reward for going to the Logan TAFE college to failed the trainees and the young people of help brief the then shadow Minister and me the State yet again, because he has not been about the situation there. The Goss able to honour his election commitments Government inherited the lowest per capita without raiding this hollow log. funding for TAFE of any Australian State. 22 Oct 1998 Building and Construction Industry (Portable Long Service Leave) Amendment Bill 2753

Mr SANTORO: Mr Deputy Speaker, I rise support the member for Clayfield; he is just to a point of order. The comments made by being dragged along with him. the honourable member for Logan that I I also congratulate another group sacked the former executive director of TAFE interested in training, wanting to help out are false. I find them offensive and I ask that wherever it can. I refer to the Greenbank RSL. they be withdrawn. It has 51,000 members. I declare my Mr MICKEL: If he finds the words pecuniary interest by saying that I am one of offensive, of course I withdraw any offensive them. As a result of its recent extension, words. That does not alter the fact that Labor Greenbank RSL has taken on 50 people. It is inherited the lowest per capita funding for seeking to set up traineeships so that it can TAFE in Australia when it came to power in train people in the hospitality industry. The 1989. That also meant that Queensland had RSL employs many locals in the Logan West some of the lowest intakes per head of suburbs and I congratulate it on wanting to population. Young people in Queensland were participate in the scheme set up by the disadvantaged by the low level of funding and director-general of the department. Another the low level of intake. Lack of training meant person taking an interest in trying to provide that Queenslanders were being further left that extension service is David Jack from the behind. Logan West Community Centre. Anything we can do to improve the accessibility of training As I said, under the Goss Government, in Logan West is something that I know the through this Minister, the TAFE system was Minister supports and it is something that I, as brought back to national average in funding. the local member, support. We gave people in Logan—those people seeking apprenticeships, those people seeking I know that the traineeship program being training—a bit of a go at it. In two and a half offered in Salisbury has been touched on, years this situation was virtually destroyed by because it is in the electorate of the member the member for Clayfield. To try to ingratiate for Archerfield. There is $3m in this budget for himself with the Federal Government and that program. It is a very good scheme. I am Minister Kemp, he tried to concertina into one hoping that the students in my electorate can access it. As I have told the House before, the year a process that had been taking three problem in my electorate is one of a lack of years in other States and virtually privatise it, transport to access those services. The leaving teachers out of the system and leaving Brisbane City Council, through the Labor courses almost abandoned. administration of course, has set up a bus I recognise that the Minister has an service that goes from the Grand Plaza in important challenge in trying to rectify that Browns Plains. It will now take students all the situation at the Logan TAFE, and he has my way to the Salisbury traineeship scheme. That full support. I know that Carol Haase is doing will be a big asset in trying to overcome the her level best to try to provide training for those tyranny of distance that people in those outer people. Importantly, she is trying to rectify for metropolitan areas face. the people of the Logan West suburbs the The other service I am trying to secure, situation brought about by the complete along with my colleague the member for neglect that went on for two and a half years. Springwood, is one that makes sure students I also congratulate the new Director- can access the Logan TAFE college from east General, Mr Bob Marshman, for altering what to west. I congratulate the member for had been two and a half years of bureaucratic Springwood on the energy he is showing in neglect at that senior level in relation to the relation to that and for the representations he people of Logan. It has taken only a couple of has made to the Minister for Transport in that months. I have had Bob Marshman out in the regard. area with some senior people from the I note from the Minister's second-reading department to see what sort of extension speech that Government departments will services can be provided. I know that the promote traineeships. I refer particularly to the member for Crows Nest is deeply interested in efforts being made by the Public Works this, because he knows that if we can get Department. Maybe I will get into trouble with training there will be training for people such as the Government for saying this, but so be it. I the folks in Crows Nest. Once we get that really want that maintenance money given to training going and give them hope, both in the Department of Education put back in with Logan and Crows Nest, people's ability to the Public Works Department. The reason for obtain and retain a job is enhanced. I know that is very straightforward. In my view, it that the member for Crows Nest would not should never have been taken over there. It 2754 Building and Construction Industry (Portable Long Service Leave) Amendment Bill 22 Oct 1998 was a mistake. I think it was a mistake by the I want to return to at a later date when I have previous Government under the Leading a bit more time. Schools program, by which this responsibility Yesterday, I was disappointed—I was was to be devolved to school principals. shocked, actually—that the One Nation Party I believe that a school principal should be wanted to attack the setting up of the dairy interested in the welfare of the school processing industry in my electorate. Although community and the educational curriculum that would create jobs for Queenslanders and opportunities. It should not be the principal's jobs for Logan, that joker over there wants to role to have to work out what maintenance oppose it. We get a humble firm in my money the school needs or what maintenance electorate, and that cackle over there want to program is needed. The Public Works oppose it. Department provides a very important Dr Prenzler interjected. maintenance program in regional rural Queensland. I notice that the member for Mr MICKEL: Did the member say that he Burnett is in the Chamber. The program that opposes the jobs going to Logan? I will the department provides in Bundaberg is first remember that, and when I next do a report to rate for all those small schools. That the people of Logan I will let them know that the One Nation Party opposed that factory and responsibility should never have been given to those jobs opportunities—120 jobs. the Department of Education. Dr PRENZLER: I rise to a point of order. I The Department of Public Works employs did not say that we oppose jobs going to the greatest number of apprentices in the Logan at all. building program. It is very sad, when I attend P & C meetings, to find that some of those Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER (Mr Reeves): attending believe that Public Works should be Order! There is no point of order. done away with so that they can employ a Dr PRENZLER: That is what the member contractor. said that I said, but I did not say that at all. I Mr Sullivan: And they want to get rid of ask him to withdraw that. Q-Build. Mr DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! There is no point of order. The member did not say that Mr MICKEL: That is what I have said. I the remark was offensive. There is no point of am behind the times. It does not matter. I order. If he did not say those words, there is would rather be right than consistent. The no point of order. point is this: the department employs the apprentices; a contractor would not do that, Mr MICKEL: If it satisfies the member, I because they have to get the lowest price. So will withdraw it. I just noted that members of if we want to stick with apprentices, we have to the One Nation Party oppose that industry and stick with Q-Build. I make no apology for those jobs going to Logan. The member for saying that. Members can distribute these Tablelands opposed it yesterday. I know what remarks around my electorate. I would be they are all about: no more job opportunities happy to defend apprentices any day of the for Logan. Did members see the pathetic week. performance from the member for Whitsunday when he opposed it? Pauline Hanson said that Mr Pearce: Quality of work. kids could leave school at 14 or 15 and get Mr MICKEL: Their quality of work is apprenticeships. She loses, goes out of sight, outstanding. and so does One Nation's policy. I also want to touch on another issue. We I support the Bill. Of course, I want the are employing contractors now—and I notice Minister to make sure that those people in that Suncorp is starting to do it—in the motor Logan get every opportunity to gain those trades and the vehicle repair industry. They are apprenticeships, which we consider to be trying to squeeze the margins for those vehicle absolutely vital for their future. repair operators. I believe that means that Mr SLACK (Burnett—NPA) (5.44 p.m.): In many of those small businesses will go to the his second-reading speech on 6 August, the wall. As well, it will reduce the ability of that Minister for Employment, Training and repair industry to take on apprentices. That is Industrial Relations made the claim that the something that we all have to guard against. coalition had done nothing in the area of They are trying to reduce the margins. And training during its time in office, except for a Suncorp has been just as guilty of this as massive engagement in rhetoric. The member anyone else. I encourage the Minister to have for Kedron knows all about rhetoric. He knows a close look at that, because it is an issue that all about rhetoric to the exclusion of practical 22 Oct 1998 Building and Construction Industry (Portable Long Service Leave) Amendment Bill 2755 and positive effort. I will take this opportunity to that regard. We would all agree that training remind the House of the strategy that our young people for a lifetime in the work underpinned the coalition's fine efforts in force is the most important thing that we can training in the 28 months in which my do. And the fact is that the coalition was doing colleague the member for Clayfield was it with—on the evidence so far to hand—rather Minister. And I turn for inspiration in this more effect than the Labor Party has instance, firstly, to the occasion of the demonstrated this time around. Construction Training Expo held in Brisbane In an economic context, Governments at two years ago. The member for Bulimba was both Federal and State levels in this country present on that occasion. He may like to have to work to promote an economic remind the new Minister of the occasion. environment and climate which will encourage The gathering heard on that occasion the demand and, in turn, ensure supply. That is an coalition Government's view that the elementary rule of government on which there construction industry historically had made a should be no argument on a partisan basis in great contribution to the development of this House. The question turns more on the Queensland. We should all recognise that ways of achieving this sort of outcome on a contribution and pay it due credit. It is a major regular and sustained basis. In the contributor to Queensland's economy and a construction industry, the subject of the significant employer of the State's work force. legislation before us at the moment, It is true, as my colleague the member for subcontracting, for example, brings into play Clayfield pointed out on that occasion—as he complications that do not exist in other sectors had done previously and has done and for which, if I may make another critical subsequently—that there has been a observation about the relative weight of reduction in the number of formally trained rhetoric versus action where this minority Labor tradespeople currently working in the industry. Government is concerned, the ALP's history He referred to the fact that evidence suggests and political imperatives seem ill equipped. that the majority of workers in the industry do High-level training wages is one such case not hold formal qualifications and to the fact in point. There remains a broad consensus that there had been a drop-off in the number among employers—one acknowledged by the of apprentices in training over the preceding union movement; a factor that deserves to be two years, following a peak in 1995. noted—that these are often too high to But what was not perhaps widely known encourage private sector employers to take on at that time—outside the construction industry apprentices. In Opposition, the member for itself—was that, by the third quarter of 1997, Brisbane Central sought to persuade us that there were more apprentices in training in the the answer lay in a compulsory training levy building tradespersons category than there imposed by the Government—one of those were in 1990—a 13% increase, in fact. At that Clayton's taxes; the tax you pay when the time, the Opposition—the Labor Party now in Government of the day does not want you to office but not in power—was making a lot of wake up to the fact that you are paying a tax. the reduction in new apprenticeship approvals He takes the same view in Government, as we over the preceding couple of years. It was, of know. That is why we are having this debate course, ignoring the cyclical nature of the today. But however the Premier and his construction industry—something that relates Minister for Training dress up this little scam, to another factor that the Labor Party the fact remains that a training levy in the historically has had difficulty comprehending: construction industry is simply another new tax the law of supply and demand. This must for home buyers and developers to pay—a inevitably have an impact on the intake of new tax that effectively will force up the price of apprentices. building a house or high-rise apartment block It is never surprising that, in the private and thereby help to reduce demand. That is sector—the sector from which the legislation exactly the opposite of the outcome that a we are debating proposes to obtain a development-friendly Government should be concessional cash flow from workers' holiday seeking. pay to fund training—bosses who must be There are better ways to achieve the driven by the profit and loss account are slow thoroughly laudable goal of a better trained to add costs when things are not going as well building and construction industry work force. It as they might. We would all agree that the would be better to focus on the wage issue bumps in the private sector economy should within the industry's cost structure rather than be ironed out as far as possible. The key lies in add a further bureaucratic element to that what is possible. And I just make the point that structure. That is something else that Labor Fabian meddling has been a historic failure in has yet to understand as it grapples with the 2756 Building and Construction Industry (Portable Long Service Leave) Amendment Bill 22 Oct 1998 horrific difficulty of dragging its early 20th young job seekers than to the Premier's century class struggle mentality into the bright political requirement to deliver the future of the 21st century. undeliverable, his 5% promise—relies When the member for Clayfield as overwhelmingly on the public sector. It is the Minister introduced the portable long service private sector that drives Queensland. It is the leave levy in 1997, it was well received by the small-business sector that drives Queensland. industry and the community for the cost- This is the private enterprise State, the small- reduction effect it brought to bear. What we business State. Does Labor know that? Does have now, of course, is a Labor plan to get Labor really care? round the unpleasant public relations The coalition's jobs creation strategy— downside of a formal training levy by raiding now being undermined by Labor's meddling— the Portable Long Service Leave Fund. This encouraged work-based training that reduced minority Labor regime wants to do what all the need for apprentices to spend long periods meddlesome and manipulative Labor regimes away from their workplace. It demands training have always done: it wants to rob Peter to pay programs that are flexible and which offer Paul—in this case by happy coincidence short-term training arrangements. It is private almost literally. The difficulty for the Peter in sector oriented. It is aimed at delivering this principle, however, is that paying Paul will training in the productive, wealth-creating in the end inevitably cost votes. private sector. Labor's recipe instead carries According to the Minister for Training, the the threat of a return to the failures of the past. building and construction industry has been It is important that that is recognised, calling for a training levy. He said in his particularly since the Government-run—or at second-reading speech that we had ignored least Government-controlled— training regime those plaintive cries for help while we were in promoted by this Government proposes to office. He went on to say—and I believe his fund a dubious public policy by raiding the words are worth repeating—that Labor's holiday funds of private sector workers. initiatives offer substance that equates to real In his second-reading speech, the jobs and real skills. He said— Minister told the House that as of 30 June this year the building and construction industry "While I do not contend that these portable long service leave scheme had initiatives will be a panacea, resolving all investment funds of $144m. The Minister— the industry's skills problems overnight, and one could almost see the gleam in his eye they are a positive step in the right when he mentioned this—said that that direction, ensuring that a strong skills base is developed to take this industry represented many times the amount required into the 21st century. This will also avoid to cover payments of claims. Aha! There was a the necessity to import skilled labour from surplus, a hollow log for Labor to scrape out in overseas." pursuit of money to fund its manipulation of the industry. It never makes good financial So that those opposite hear it one more time, I sense to raid funds simply because there is a repeat: the coalition is the jobs-building party. surplus that can, with the stroke of a ministerial The coalition produced 40% of all of Australia's pen, be made available for immediate use. It new jobs when it held office in Queensland makes far less sense when the use to which it between February 1996 and June 1998. That is planned to put those funds lies outside the is a proud record and one that gives the lie to ambit of the original intent. It is close to Labor's self-serving prevarication on the issue. downright daylight robbery to seize the funds I remind members opposite that when the of building industry workers without so much as Goss Government left power, growth in a by-your-leave. Queensland was 2.2%. When this Labor There are many great workers in the Government took office the figure had grown building industry who toil long and hard to earn under the coalition Government to 4.5%. I am their crust. They are entitled to view the pleased to see that the Minister is modest balance in the long service leave fund as enough not to claim that he can create his theirs, collectively, to be used for the purpose brave new world in six days plus smoko time. for which it was collected and on which their He will not be curing the problem overnight. fund can earn interest in the commercial We can be sure of that at least. deposit market. That is what is so wrong with Training is a complex issue made more the Government's smash-and-grab policy in complicated in this instance by the fact that this instance. It is not the Government's Labor's much-vaunted jobs creation strategy— money; it is the workers' money. For the a strategy that owes its true sense of urgency benefit of the Minister, I repeat: it is the less to the predicament of Queensland's workers' money. It does not deserve to be 22 Oct 1998 Privatisation of TAB 2757 turned into a tax on effort and enterprise at employment through the contribution that has either end of the building industry—the input been made by BACAS and by the people end, where the workers are, or the output end, associated with it. I take the opportunity to where the buyers are. commend those people for the contribution It is also worrisome that these that they have made to the employment of amendments to the coalition's sensible young people. arrangements are predicated by the Minister I would like to point out that the on the basis that they represent no additional administrative costs have been contributed by cost either to industry or the Government—for Government. $146,000 has been provided by which, read the taxpayer. The danger is that a combination of funding from this another financial raid precedent is being set. Government, the previous Government and The danger is that once a justification has the Commonwealth Government. Industry been found to siphon $5.4m a year out of the itself contributes a considerable amount of building and construction industry workers' money to BACAS. holiday fund, some justification will be found in Mr Speaker, as you are well aware, the future to siphon off a few more dollars. members of the Opposition are very supportive I turn now to an organisation in of apprenticeships and traineeships. Through Bundaberg that has done a lot towards the the efforts of the previous Minister, the now creation of apprenticeships and traineeships Opposition spokesperson, over the short years for young people. I refer to the role that that we were in Government the coalition BACAS plays. BACAS is a public company developed policies that contributed to a limited by guarantee that was formed in 1986 considerable number of people being to help increase the level of apprenticeships employed in the construction industry. It is and later traineeships that were available in wrong for the Government to imply that little or the Bundaberg district. It is one of more than nothing was done by the coalition in the two 100 such group training companies in and a half years that we were in office. As operation throughout Australia employing members opposite well know, the figures more than 26,000 apprentices and trainees. speak for themselves: 40% of all jobs created Currently BACAS employs 129 apprentices, 60 in Australia in the period that the coalition was trainees and 28 administrative training staff. in Government were created in Queensland. No doubt the members opposite would join Debate, on motion of Mr Slack, with me in commending BACAS for the efforts adjourned. that it makes in providing a future for young people. PRIVATISATION OF TAB BACAS was created in 1986 in response to a need. It was delivered by private Mr HEALY (Toowoomba North—NPA) enterprise. It has a board. The original (6.01 p.m.): I move— chairman, Mr Phil Ainsworth, is still the "That this House supports the chairman of BACAS, which is funded by privatisation of the Queensland TAB." private enterprise with assistance from the If ever there was a motion that deserved Government. The manager of BACAS, Mr the full support of this House—from all of those Tom Quinn, is well known to many members. members in whose electorates there are He has provided excellent leadership in the racetracks, dog tracks, harness racing role that he has played between 1986 and complexes, TABs, clubTABS, pubTABS right 1998. across this great State—it is this motion. It Mr Santoro: He is one of the outstanding deserves support from every member of this trainers in Queensland. House whose constituents are transport Mr SLACK: He is one of the outstanding operators, who work for feed companies, who trainers in Queensland. He has been are veterinarians, who work for catering recognised by an OAM in the 1997 honours companies, who are farriers, office staff, TAB list. He has been recognised by industry with staff, trainers, jockeys or stable hands. In fact, several awards over the years. We need to across this State more than 25,000 people are pay tribute to the role that he plays in the employed in an industry that is the very much Bundaberg area. The scheme that he under threat at this particular moment. If the administers provides 70% of the trainees and Queensland TAB does not privatise, the jobs apprentices in the building industry in the of many of those people are very much under Bundaberg region, which includes Monto, threat. Gayndah and Mundubbera. Since 1986, many I know that there are people in the Labor young people have gained jobs and Party who are totally opposed to the 2758 Privatisation of TAB 22 Oct 1998 privatisation of the TAB. I know that there are are then able to go down the road of people within the Labor Party who are totally in privatisation, it will come down from 28% favour of it. As members would recall, last year to 25%, and that 3% difference—that is, the ALP State conference passed an urgency Queensland will have 25% as compared resolution opposing TAB privatisation. In fact, with Victoria and New South Wales, which until only recently, the Premier indicated his have 28%—will offset the distinct caution on privatisation. Earlier this week in this advantage that they have in relation to place, it was pleasing to hear him indicate that poker machine revenue into their TABs." perhaps he had changed his mind a little on The Minister is spot-on. If it comes down to the issue. In fact, the words that he used in 25%, we will have that 3% advantage that we this House on Tuesday could not be more do not have now and we will not have under true. He stated— corporatisation. "It is important, I think, that we do set The Queensland racing industry in all clearly on the record for the purposes of three codes has identified a number of issues this debate that the profits of the TAB are, which, in themselves, have not helped in the in fact, distributed as prize money to the battle for the State's gambling dollar. Let me race clubs of this State; they are not say that I think that the three codes have done provided to the taxpayer. The a pretty darned good job in putting their Queensland taxpayers receive the strategic plans together. For the first time in benefits from a wagering tax. That many years, they have shown some sort of wagering tax will, in fact, be charged on partisanship. I refer to the thoroughbred the TAB whether the TAB is in strategic plan, because the industry has gone corporatised form, in its current form or in out and identified for itself some of the a privatised form. So that money will be problems within the industry. The plan outlines going to the taxpayers." the problems as follows— Even with the privatisation of the TAB, the "Racing's ability to compete level of TAB wagering tax revenue to the effectively with other forms of gambling Government would still be at 25%. However, it and entertainment (eg the industry's would allow Queensland to be able to ward off share of the Queensland gambling the scavengers; for Queensland and the market plummeted from 74% to only 18% Queensland TAB to be even more since the start of the 1980s); competitive. Not only did the Premier make those statements in the Parliament but also he Rapidly changing lifestyles and made statements publicly. On 20 October, an consumer leisure patterns; article in the Courier-Mail stated— Heightened competition from privatised interstate TABs." "Signalling the Government's intention to privatise the TAB, Mr Beattie I refer to TABs such as TABCorp in Victoria, said yesterday he and Racing Minister which is already privatised, already into Bob Gibbs would argue strongly for the Queensland, and already seeking out those proposed sale." markets. The plan has identified those factors. The plan states further— Then, also on 20 October on the Carolyn Tucker program, the Premier stated— "Too many race meetings and races, contributing to comparatively small field "I've signalled my support for the sizes and poor quality racing." privatisation because I think if we don't the TAB has a very bleak future." I congratulate the industry on identifying those sorts of problems. However, we have to be The Premier is 100% right. I refer to the able to fix them. As a Government, we have to answer that the Minister for Tourism, Sport and allow industry to take control of its own destiny Racing gave to me during the Estimates so that it can compete with those other committee hearings. This answer is part of the organisations. basis for the whole argument. I asked him a question in relation to TAB tax revenue. I This will be a real test. This debate tonight will be most interesting, because for probably asked him about the fact that it is now 36%. the first time and probably the last time the The Minister stated— Opposition is going in to bat for the Minister. It "It is currently 34%, which puts us at is a strange situation indeed when the Minister a distinct disadvantage, as you know, supports the privatisation of the TAB, the compared with Victoria and New South Premier lends his support to the privatisation of Wales. Once we corporatise it on 1 the TAB, many members of the Government January it will come down to 28%. If we who have spoken to me privately on this issue 22 Oct 1998 Privatisation of TAB 2759 are supporting the privatisation of the TAB, the will send the message that the Parliament coalition supports the privatisation of the TAB, debated the issue and resolved to show the industry supports the privatisation of the bipartisan support for the Queensland racing TAB, yet the most important decision on the industry. The thousands of constituents—both future of one of this State's greatest industries yours and mine—who derive an income from will come down to the vote of a few party the racing industry, who put food on their hacks at an ALP State conference. tables at night, educate and clothe their kids I will refer again to the Premier's and put petrol in their cars because of the comments made in this House the other day. racing industry will get the message that One of the issues that has been raised by the members of Parliament from both sides of ASU and Janice Mayes is job security. Even politics have agreed to support them. the Premier has said— Time expired. "In terms of the job security issue—I Hon. T. R. COOPER (Crows Nest—NPA) have had discussions with the Australian (6.11 p.m.): I have great pleasure in seconding Services Union. The job security issue is the motion. This is not a case where people one that both the Minister and I have have been screaming and yelling in an taken very seriously. There will be ongoing attempt to convince others that this is the right discussions with the ASU to protect way to go. I was the Racing Minister when we employment opportunities. We are of the started to move towards privatisation. In view that there will be jobs growth out of a moving from stage 1 to stage 2, the privatised TAB; not only will existing jobs corporatisation side of the process, we be protected, there will be jobs growth as involved people from across-the-board and I a result of it." kept the current Minister fully informed. We The Premier is spot-on. At the moment, we brought together people from all sides of have an industry that does not have growth, politics, such as Ian Brusasco, Jim Kennedy, because in other States of Australia two large Craig Black and John Crowley, who are heavily TABs have decided to privatise. They are out involved in what was a fragmented industry. If there competing directly against Queensland. one could get the people from the harness If we allow the industry to make the move to racing, greyhound and thoroughbred industries privatise, we can compete on even better than together and one achieved some unity, it a level playing field. If there is growth in the would be nothing short of a miracle. However, industry, there are jobs in the industry. If we do that sort of thing happened, not because we not achieve that growth and allow this great said that the industry must privatise but racing industry of ours to wither on the vine, because the industry itself wanted to privatise. there will be job losses. People in the industry know very well that the chances of surviving against the Victoria and This is going to test who is really running New South Wales organisations are slim, if not this State. Is it the Premier and his Caucus almost hopeless. No-one can tell me that the colleagues or is it the union heavies and the consultation process has not taken place. It party hacks? The decision at the ALP State has taken place and it has been going on for conference will send a clear message to months and months. The industry itself was Queensland on who is leading this State. Is it constantly saying, "When are we going to Janice Mayes, Don Brown and Bill Ludwig or bring this together? Let us bring it together." I Peter Beattie and Bob Gibbs? table all of the press releases and any other Already this week we have seen and information that people may want. heard all about the aggressive exploits of the To those people who are having trouble privatised Victorian TABCorp in Queensland. I making up their minds, all I can say is that a lot hope that the Minister is considering talking to of work has been done, and members his Crown law advisers in relation to some opposite cannot claim otherwise. They can legislative amendments that may prevent what catch up on it. I say that quite openly and in is happening with TABCorp in Queensland. the friendliest possible way, because we are The important thing to remember is that if only speaking for the industry—all the people privatisation is to go ahead and it is done right, whom the member for Toowoomba North it may give the average Queensland mum and mentioned, the little players and the big ones, dad the chance to invest in a major company and all of the people who enjoy racing and without having to have a bet. want to see the industry competing with the This is a chance for the Parliament and southern States. For example, the other day we must not walk away from it. If almost this case was presented to me: in everybody agrees with it, why cannot this Queensland, a racing pool can get 2 to 1 for motion be passed tonight? Tonight's debate its horse, but it will be listed in Sydney at 7 to 2760 Privatisation of TAB 22 Oct 1998

1. People know damn well that we are on a doing and I know full that the Minister, Ian loser up here. Therefore, this is really about Brusasco and people from either side of sticking up for the industry. politics support privatisation. Control of the industry will stay in Time expired. Queensland. TAB headquarters will always Mrs LIZ CUNNINGHAM (Gladstone—IND) stay here. Under the coalition, the racing (6.17 p.m.): I move the following industry was going to be in a position to control amendment— and own the TAB. Therefore, both sides of the racing industry would have controlled it. Such "Delete all words after 'That', and things are possible under the scheme that we insert the following— have going. However, if we wait and 'given the importance of the racing procrastinate, the industry will lose badly. industry of Queensland and To give people a rough idea of the particularly the implications of any benefits that would have flowed to the racing change to the TAB to the racing industry, in the first year it would have received industry, that the issue of approximately $20m. That money could have privatisation requires a full and gone towards increasing prize money, informed debate as part of a formal improving infrastructure and so on. That was to legislative process.'." be done by cutting taxes from 34% to 28% in My main reason for moving the the first stage. We were ready to rock and roll amendment is that this is a very important with Stage 2, which would have seen the tax issue. I do not dispute that there has already rate drop from 34% to 25%. Therefore, the been a great deal of debate, discussion and Government of the day would have forgone research into the privatisation or non- $20m-odd in revenue, which is a massive hit privatisation of the TAB. However, because of for the industry. The coalition planned to its importance to the industry, this is not a forgive a $31m debt, which would have decision that we should be making in a one- provided another massive hit for the industry, hour debate at 6 o'clock on this sitting night, and give it $10m up front to boot. That when no preparatory work has really been package was worth an extra $20m to the done. My last briefing on TAB Queensland industry. That was the sort of thing that it was probably 12 months ago with the previous hungered for, and still does. The people who Minister. We had a well-informed discussion talk about the loss of jobs and those who want and he certainly had every suit from around to listen to the Janice Mayes of this world are the place in the room. They told me about backing a loser. Janice Mayes does not know their aspirations for the TAB. However, some what she is talking about and it is unfortunate concerns remain. that people listen to her. I have a personal opposition to the There has been a tremendous and rare privatisation of public assets. The racing unity in the racing industry, be it intracode or community in my own electorate has a split intercode. A common purpose can bring the view on the privatisation of the TAB. In the last three codes of the industry together, and the little while I certainly have not discussed their common purpose that exists is to privatise so current views with them, because I was not that the industry can have total control of its expecting this debate to come up. I certainly own destiny. It will be able to grow and expand have concerns about the effect of privatisation in Queensland, Australia and various parts of on country racing, especially the smaller racing the world. That is the modern way; that is the clubs. We may see the demise of some of the information technology way. It is going to country clubs. The Calliope club has about four happen anyway and we do not want to be left race meetings a year, which are terrific. at the start. This is far too important. Gladstone City has a very active racing I feel sorry for those who say they want community. How will it affect them? I have more consultation, because there has already received anecdotal advice that they will be been so much consultation. We must give the better off, but I have yet to be convinced that racing industry a chance, because the industry that is the case. I have yet to hear the views of covers all political bounds. It affects the little my own electorate on the issue. people, the big people, everyone who loves a From briefings and information that I have bet and everyone who owns a horse or a dog. received in the past two years it would appear The coalition is supporting and sticking up for that the TAB is in financial trouble, and that its those people. For heaven's sake, let us get on returns will deteriorate over time and will with the job. As I said, I used to keep the continue to deteriorate. However, in the last current Minister informed of what we were financial report for the TAB, its returns had 22 Oct 1998 Privatisation of TAB 2761 increased. I still have not received a logical that a redundancy package is in place for reply or response as to why that is occurring. If employees in the extremely unlikely event in the last 12 months there has been such a of job losses at the TAB; huge amount of pressure on TAB from that market conditions allow for a southern betting, why is TAB Queensland still favourable sale price; returning a healthy profit? that the final package provides fair and I have read the comments of the Premier, equitable value to investors in the TAB the Honourable Mr Beattie, regarding the TAB Queensland; sale. I have also had a number of meetings with Janice Mayes from the union, who holds that the sale of the TAB only proceeds grave concerns about the employment stability with the support of the racing industry and for workers in the TAB. Again, this is an issue is subject to ongoing contractual that we keep talking about. We keep talking negotiations between the industry and about the need to retain jobs for people, and Government; and yet historically privatisation processes almost that it be subject to the industry's support guarantee that jobs will disappear. We have to for the Racing Industry Strategic Plan due look very carefully at any guarantees with to be completed later this year. respect to the long-term work force in the TAB. Obviously one of the grave concerns that I notice that the Premier's position has people have—and it is a legitimate concern— changed on the privatisation of the TAB. Even relates to the jobs of the Telebet operators of if he is not going to address us on that subject the Queensland TAB. I accept that. I think tonight, he will in the very near future. I am not anybody coming from the Labor side of politics saying that this matter has to be put aside for who did not accept that would be out of touch. months and months to come, but I reiterate I remember in Opposition that that was an that I do not believe it is an issue in respect of issue that I discussed with the then Minister, which we have had adequate time to be Russell Cooper, on a number of occasions. informed after its being raised this morning without notice for debate this afternoon. There As a result of my concerns about that are a lot of new members who may or may not matter, I have recently given a direction to the have been briefed on the matter. I believe it is board of the TAB to commence negotiations important that in the process of making a final with the ASU in a spirit of trying to work out a decision on this matter we are fully informed, proper and equitable outcome that would that we have a full and open debate, and that cover any redundancies that may take place all of the information relating to the matter is as a result of corporatisation or privatisation. I available to all members. I commend the do not believe that there will be job losses amendment to the House. under either of those circumstances. Hon. R. J. GIBBS (Bundamba—ALP) Recently, as a result of the introduction of (Minister for Tourism, Sport and Racing) home viewing on Sky, we have seen a (6.20 p.m.): I am happy to second the massive growth rate in the TAB. Approximately amendment moved by the member for another 40 operators have started at Telebet. Gladstone. I understand that One Nation is to The working hours that they have been offered move an amendment. I am happy with that have increased by about 60%. Home betting amendment also. I accept that amendment. In accounts, which normally run at about 210 saying so, I agree with what the member for new accounts per week being opened up at Gladstone said. In an hour it is impossible to the TAB, are being opened up at in excess of have a constructive debate about what will 1,000 per week at present. probably be one of the most important issues The threat to future job security at the for the Queensland racing industry in the TAB will not come from corporatisation or future. privatisation. The biggest threat to jobs at the I accept that the member for Toowoomba TAB will be technology changes in the future. I North has brought the motion to the House in do not have the answer to that. I do not think a spirit of goodwill, but I question the politics of any member in this House has the answer to his doing so this evening. However, although that. Earlier, I was telling some members that there will be a difference in the wording of the the Hong Kong Jockey Club has almost motion, broadly speaking there will be some perfected a system that I understand will be bipartisanship displayed this evening. I was put in place at the New South Wales TAB going to move an amendment as follows— possibly within the next 18 months to two that all head office functions currently years. People will record a phone bet straight undertaken in Queensland remain in this into a computer. The computer will voice State; identify people's accounts and the wager will 2762 Privatisation of TAB 22 Oct 1998 be laid. That is the way technology is going. I Let me make it clear that One Nation in do not know how that can be stopped. principle is opposed to the privatisation of The other issue that people have a public assets. Too often Governments sell the concern about is that head office functions farm to pay for all sorts of other bills and debts must remain in Queensland. I agree with that. that outrageous election promises land them It is a State institution of Queensland. That is with. Corporatisation and privatisation are the why I share with members from One Nation processes that destroy jobs and put profits and other members in this Parliament a above people. Economic rationalism is the real commitment to ensure that whatever form, if it issue here—the concept of shedding jobs for is approved by the party conference, that the profits. Of course selling TABQ would generate sale should take—and, again, I remember that a profit. Similar to the sale of Telstra, those we shared this point of view before—it must profits could be large. I wish to highlight that it remain primarily in the hands of Queensland was the Federal coalition Government that investors. There is no intention on behalf of sold off Telstra—something that was opposed me or the Treasurer to allow the New South very strongly, and rightly so, by Federal Labor. Wales TAB or the Victorian TAB to take up the Similar to the sale of Telstra, I fear that majority shareholding in it. That is not the aim the profits would be used to fund more at all. Certainly, I would see that part of the election promises and used to provide a false strategic plan of the TAB in the future would Budget surplus, therefore making the be to try to be a bit predatory in relation to Government's job of reducing unemployment South Australia or the Northern Territory—— to 5% a little more realistic. The facts are Time expired. completely ignored in most cases in this House. Politics always gets in the way. TABQ Mr NELSON (Tablelands—ONP) generates a massive amount of income for the (6.25 p.m.): I move the following amendment State. Millions of dollars are already poured to the amendment moved by the member for into Government coffers from taxes and Gladstone— statutory remittances. In Victoria, non-TAB "Add the following words after meetings were radically reduced in number 'process'— and therefore regional areas were affected the 'and that all steps are taken to most by privatisation. This fact clearly shows ensure that in the future no jobs—full that privatisation is not in the best interests of time or part time—are lost in the Queensland—a largely decentralised State corporatisation and privatisation with an important regional area. This is the process. Furthermore, that in any crux of why I am opposed to this proposition. public float Queenslanders would Herein lies the choice: only One Nation will have a controlling ownership of defend the people of Queensland from the TABQ.'." horrors of privatisation. I wrote an incredible speech on the An honourable member: Rubbish! presumption that I would get an absolute Mr NELSON: It is not rubbish. flogging for moving this amendment. Mr Beattie stated in Parliament on Government members interjected. Tuesday that the issue will go to his party's Mr NELSON: I did. I was incredibly wrong. conference in Maryborough in November. Any I am used to taking an absolute pounding real member of old Labor and not today's when I stand up to speak in this place. Labor would never support Mr Beattie's However, tonight, after negotiations and the confused and radical shift in direction. I wonder reaching of a couple of agreements, we have what the hardcore unionists—wharfies, managed, I think, to come to a consensus in builders, labourers, and members of the this House. This comes as an absolute shock Transport Workers Union—would think of to me. today's Labor supporting the concept of privatisation, not to mention the concept of Mr Gibbs interjected. same-sex marriages. And they wonder why Mr NELSON: I must say that, yes, the they lost six seats to One Nation! Minister for Tourism, Sport and Racing has I for one do not lament the fact that the treated us rather fairly, and I acknowledge Government will not listen. In doing so, it that. However, I will continue with my prepared signed its death warrant. It has not heard the speech, because I feel that as a member of voice of dissent against the concept of One Nation and as a person who has to speak economic rationalism. With that realisation, I out on these subjects I should make some of believe that the old parties are on their last the points that I wished to make. legs. 22 Oct 1998 Privatisation of TAB 2763

I could not go to my ancestors knowing turncoat Mrs Kernot as its spokesperson on that I did not do my best on their behalf. To this topic. Now the Queensland Government the members of the major parties in this intends to do the same by taking away non- Chamber I say, "You sold out. You stopped TAB races in the bush. When will it learn? fighting the good fight. You have lost your way Let us get this in perspective. We can and you are hopelessly wandering around stop this. I am sure now that the member for without any direction. What are you going to Nicklin will support this motion, as will the do when there is nothing left to sell? You Independent member for Gladstone. I say to cannot sell your souls; they have already these members, "Here is your chance to really gone." support the non-privatisation/corporatisation of Mr FELDMAN (Caboolture—ONP) these industries. I am pleading with you on (6.30 p.m.): I rise to second the amendment of behalf of the people and on behalf of 438,000 the member for Tablelands and, in doing so, I Queenslanders who voted for One Nation for acknowledge his support of the ASU, being an support on the amendment to this motion. old union man himself from the TWU. I am This is not too much to ask and it is something sure he reflects the feelings of most unionists that I am sure you will be able to support." The in this matter. plea also goes to our friends from Labor, who are still old Labor, "Think about what you do. I agree that in this debate many have lost Think of your voters and supporters. Think of their way, but selling out a public utility is not the platform that you stand on. Just have the the answer. The only short-term lift out is the integrity to stand up for your principles and not bandaid solution—a bandaid for spending. It vote along the party line." I say that especially will only be used to fund election promises, for the benefit of the members for Bundaberg, and even then it is dubious as to whether or Rockhampton and Mackay. not it will really work out in that way. This is a classic case of killing the goose that lays the In closing, I say that privatisation is a golden egg. flawed and dangerous concept. The people of Australia are against it and they have shown An Opposition member: That's original. that with the vote for Telstra. The Labor Party Mr FELDMAN: It certainly is. The figures was once against it before its recent backflip. from 1991 to 1997 actually show that TABQ Now the only voice for the destruction of returned $584m in State taxes and other economic rationalism is the One Nation Party. statutory remittances to Queenslanders. The Tonight, if justice is to prevail, I am sure this Queensland racing industry also received motion will be passed in the right manner. $335m in direct funding. What more could I Hon. K. W. HAYWARD (Kallangur—ALP) possibly say? This is income, and income that (6.34 p.m.): I think tonight's debate in this will be there for the long term. It is not a one- Parliament is a very important one. When we off. It is self-funding and it is a sure-fire talk about a debate such as this, we need to investment in Queensland's future. Selling it talk about some of the history of this matter. I off is unthinkable. One Nation will never have just heard the two members from One support the sell-off. Nation who said that basically they are against We look also at the concept of privatisation, they are against changing or privatisation. Is it all that it is made out to be? doing anything to the TAB and there is nothing Will it really be of any benefit to Queensland at that we could do to shift them. The reality of all? Let me give honourable members an life is that, when we talk about the TAB in example. When Suncorp-Metway goes Queensland, we have to realise that it only through privatisation, it is expected that around commenced operations in Queensland on 11 1,500 jobs will be lost. Privatisation will not August 1962. So people such as One Nation benefit the unemployed of this State at all. It members would have been arguing in 1961 will not provide a long-term solution for "do not bring in the TAB". unemployment—not for anyone. I have Those sort of arguments are silly because spoken with Janice Mayne from the ASU, and they fail to recognise two important things, that she has lobbied me heavily in respect to what is, as we all know, history is evolving and she believes may be the loss of full-time and changing all of the time. In this world, as we part-time jobs in the privatisation/corporatisation are now, we have to deal with the changes of the TABQ, and I cannot support that sort of that are occurring in technology and the job loss. Another loser in this debate will be demands that that technology causes in regional Australia. Federal Labor has shown its raising capital. Organisations such as the TAB extreme lack of respect for regional Australia just do not exist on thin air. We do not put the with the recent appointment of the well-known massive computer technology in for nothing; 2764 Privatisation of TAB 22 Oct 1998 we have to do that by raising significant The issues of technology are driving our amounts of capital. society. Whatever one thinks and whatever I think we all know the history of why the one does, in the end that is going to TAB started in Queensland. Basically, it was determine where jobs are. What is important founded out of the increasing incidence of about this is that the Government has ensured illegal betting via SP bookmakers. Of course, that a redundancy package for any TAB at that time the betting laws in Queensland person who loses their job is in place, whether were very restrictive. If punters wanted to have it is related to the sale of the TAB or not. They a bet in this State, they were required to are the two issues that we have to deal with. attend a racecourse and bet with a registered The other myth, of course, is that the bookmaker. Would anyone seriously suggest Queensland TAB can compete effectively in its in this year that, if people wanted to have a current state. The reality is that the TAB now bet, they had to go to the racecourse and they faces increasing competition from other forms had to bet with a registered bookmaker? No, of gambling. There are now forms of legalised because the reality is that history changes. Of gambling that many years ago people thought course, for some people it changes; for most would never be possible. of us it changes. Time expired. The TAB came into existence and it Mrs GAMIN (Burleigh—NPA) (6.39 p.m.): offered legalised betting and some protection This Parliament has a responsibility to do all it from the law. Of course, it got rid of the can to protect Queensland's very proud racing problem that was occurring with SP industry. That is why I support tonight's original bookmakers, which was the extension of motion, as moved by the member for credit. So it got rid of one of the worst aspects Toowoomba North, calling on this Parliament of SP bookmaking. Importantly, it also to give its endorsement to the privatisation of provided to clubs throughout the State profits the TAB. The Opposition has no problem with from the TAB. Through people betting off the the amendment moved by the member for course, the money was able to go back to Tablelands, but we cannot support the those courses. amendment moved by the member for What we have had here and what we are Gladstone, as supported by Government going to have is a series of myths about the members. TAB. The first one, of course, is that the TAB The issues are quite clear and we do not provides profits to the Government. The reality need further procrastination. Tonight's original is that that does not happen; it never has. It motion presented a unique opportunity, has never provided the Government with because it would have allowed the Premier profits from wagering. All profits from the TAB and the Minister for Racing to stand by their are reinvested in the racing industry for prize word and support the State coalition. The money and infrastructure development. As the carriage of the original motion could have member for Crows Nest said, the industry itself united both sides of politics for a common wants the change. That is the reality. good. The argument about job losses is a The racing industry contributes $298m to complex argument, but the reality is that there Queensland's gross domestic product—that is have been no forced redundancies from the based on 1996-97 figures—yet it is estimated sale of the TAB in New South Wales or in that the industry contributes a further $700m in Victoria. Of course, if we sit on our hands and flow-on terms. In addition, the racing industry do nothing and do not raise the necessary accounts for the creation of 14,200 full-time or capital that is needed, privatisation is going to equivalent jobs in Queensland—6,800 created be forced upon us. As the Minister said, as directly and 7,400 created from the industry's technology changes and the ability is there for flow-on effect. a person to get on the phone—even the One There is little doubt that the racing Nation mob opposite can get on the phone industry is an enormous economic and and make a phone call to Victoria and bet employment contributor to our State but, most through the Victorian TAB or, if they are in New importantly for all Queenslanders, the industry South Wales, they will bet through the New promotes an enormous amount of recreational South Wales TAB. So technology is changing. opportunities. It is estimated that racing Surely they know how to use a phone. That is attracts an audience second only to Australian the problem. Of course, some advantages Rules. On the Gold Coast, where I come from, come through changing technology. As the the racing industry is second only to the Minister said, pay TV racing has had the effect tourism industry in size. That is why it is of increasing employment opportunities. important for this Parliament to stand by the 22 Oct 1998 Privatisation of TAB 2765 job, revenue and recreational contribution the transition program. This was a particularly racing industry provides. That is why it is important issue in rural and regional areas, important that we support the privatisation of which account for up to 40% of the revenue the TAB. generated by the racing industry. This is not a political agenda; it is an The plan put in place by the former industry agenda. The privatisation of the TAB coalition Government ensured the offers the industry autonomy and maintenance of a strong and viable wagering responsibility. Even more importantly, it offers and racing industry which maximised returns to the industry security. The Racing Minister the taxpayer. The program put in place himself has admitted in the media that, unless provided certainty for potential investors, TAB we proceed down the track of privatisation, employees and stakeholders in the community Queensland simply will not be able to stay on and in the racing industry. If the coalition an equal footing with New South Wales and motion were to be passed tonight—as it Victoria. The TAB's Chief Executive, Dick should be because the Premier and the McIllwain, also has been quoted in the press Minister have already given their public as saying that jobs will be lost to the industry support—then honourable members could be unless we proceed down this track. As the assured that the racing industry is ready. former Minister for Racing, Russell Cooper, so Time expired. correctly pointed out, the privatisation of the TAB would allow the racing industry to be in Mr REEVES (Mansfield—ALP) the driver's seat. It would allow the industry to (6.44 p.m.): I am extremely happy to support determine its own future. the amendment proposed by the member for Gladstone and, dare I say it—I do not think Under the former Borbidge Government, even I believe this—I actually support the privatisation was well on track, with Stage 2 of amendment moved by One Nation. In the plan scheduled to be implemented in the common with the member for Tablelands, I second half of this year. Since the minority believe there needs to be a fuller and more Beattie Government was elected, all we have informed debate about the advantages and seen is procrastination. Week after week it has disadvantages of privatising the TAB. In put this decision on hold. Now it has decided common with the member for Gladstone, I to leave it to ALP conference delegates to have made up my mind on the issue. The decide. That decision has been viewed with Minister knows this, but he is putting up a dismay in the racing industry as the greatest convincing argument. insult. The Premier, Mr Beattie, has come out Effectively, the minority Beattie and stated clearly his opinion on the issue. He Government has said to the industry, "It's not has also demonstrated his principles in relation your call. What would you know? We will leave to it. We often hear people talking about it to our conference to decide—a conference politicians promising something and not that knows nothing whatsoever about your delivering. The ALP currently has a party policy industry or its future." By contrast, the State against privatisation, and rightfully so. We coalition has always shown a strong have a democratic party—a democratic party commitment to racing. That is why, when the that selected all of the current Government industry itself said that it wanted a privatised members to be candidates for election, and TAB, we said we would back it and we would what a good bunch it is! I am extremely make it work. The former Minister embarked confident in the ability of the State conference on extensive consultation with representatives of the ALP. If it can choose such a great lot of from the three racing codes—the members, it can debate and make a correct thoroughbred, harness and greyhound racing decision on the privatisation of the TAB. industries. Listening to One Nation talk about our After Cabinet gave approval for the first approach to the matter is quite strange, as it is steps towards privatisation in October 1997, the only private political party I know of. the then Minister put in place a five-year My final consideration in deciding whether interim privatisation deal which protected I support the privatisation of the TAB will be developmental race clubs. Part of that deal based on the most important issue, that is, was to ensure that developmental clubs would jobs. We must all consider some important have at least $5.8m in financial points when we talk about the job implications support—equal to the current level of funding. of the privatisation of the TAB. Firstly, the This funding commitment gave clubs and racing industry is the fourth largest industry in communities confidence that their local race the State. It contributes over $400m annually clubs would be safeguarded through the to the Queensland economy. Racing is a 2766 Privatisation of TAB 22 Oct 1998 relatively labour-intensive industry and a major back to the party at the State conference in employer in Queensland. It employs over November to debate this issue. Unlike many 6,000 people directly in racing and racing- members opposite, particularly One Nation related activities. A further 25,000 are members, we do have a democratic party. employed in supporting industries. Much of Mr NELSON: I rise to a point of order. I this employment takes place in rural and find that comment offensive and ask for it to regional Queensland. be withdrawn. The industry includes a wide range of Mr SPEAKER: Order! There is no point of stakeholders, including breeders, livestock order. The comment was not directed at a agents, owners, trainers, jockeys, bookmakers, particular person. TABQ employees, suppliers to the industry and racing clubs. Amendment (Mr Nelson) agreed to. Question—That Mrs Cunningham's Mr Purcell: And punters. amendment as amended be agreed to—put; Mr REEVES: And punters. I must declare and the House divided— my interest: I have been punting at the TAB AYES, 50—Attwood, Barton, Beattie, Black, Bligh, ever since I can remember—not very Boyle, Braddy, Bredhauer, Clark, E. A. Cunningham, successfully! In addition, race clubs form an J. I. Cunningham, Dalgleish, Edmond, Feldman, important part of local communities throughout Fenlon, Foley, Fouras, Gibbs, Hamill, Hayward, regional Queensland. Kingston, Knuth, Lavarch, Lucas, Mackenroth, Mickel, Mulherin, Musgrove, Nelson-Carr, Nuttall, The Queensland racing industry is virtually Paff, Palaszczuk, Pearce, Pratt, Prenzler, Reeves, dependent on TAB Queensland for funding. Reynolds, Roberts, Robertson, Rose, Schwarten, Approximately $60m annually of the prize Spence, Struthers, Turner, Welford, Wellington, money for thoroughbred, harness and Wells, Wilson. Tellers: Sullivan, Purcell greyhound racing is sourced from TAB NOES, 29—Beanland, Borbidge, Connor, Cooper, Queensland, representing 85% of the total Davidson, Elliott, Gamin, Goss, Grice, Healy, Hobbs, prize money available to the three codes. A Horan, Johnson, Laming, Lester, Lingard, Littleproud, downturn in TAB Queensland's performance Mitchell, Quinn, Santoro, Seeney, Simpson, Slack, would mean a reduction in funding available to Springborg, Stephan, Veivers, Watson. Tellers: Baumann, Hegarty the Queensland racing industry and those rural and regional racing clubs. Pairs: Elder, Sheldon; D'Arcy, Malone; Briskey, Rappolt; Rowell, McGrady TAB Queensland profits could fall as much as 20% in less than five years in the Resolved in the affirmative. absence of significant structural changes. As a Mr SPEAKER: Order! For any further result, there is a potential for a 20% to 25% divisions the bells will ring for two minutes' reduction in employment in the racing industry, duration. resulting in a loss of a minimum of 1,500 jobs. Question—That Mr Healy's motion as We need to look at this prediction in the light amended be agreed to—put; and the House of what has occurred in the past few months divided— with the introduction of pay television coverage. There has been a massive increase AYES, 50—Attwood, Barton, Beattie, Black, Bligh, in employees in the telephone betting system. Boyle, Braddy, Bredhauer, Clark, E. A. Cunningham, J. I. Cunningham, Dalgleish, Edmond, Elder, Feldman, We must consider all of this when coming to a Fenlon, Foley, Fouras, Gibbs, Hamill, Hayward, conclusion on the merits or otherwise of the Kingston, Knuth, Lavarch, Lucas, Mackenroth, sale. Mickel, Mulherin, Musgrove, Nelson-Carr, Nuttall, Paff, Palaszczuk, Pearce, Pratt, Prenzler, Reeves, I got my punting skills from my father. I Reynolds, Roberts, Robertson, Schwarten, Spence, must admit that the day pay television Struthers, Turner, Welford, Wellington, Wells, introduced home viewing of racing was my Wilson. Tellers: Sullivan, Purcell father's happiest day. My father is NOES, 29—Beanland, Borbidge, Connor, Cooper, housebound due to a stroke and now he can Davidson, Elliott, Gamin, Goss, Grice, Healy, Hobbs, watch the races at home. I will be considering Horan, Johnson, Laming, Lester, Lingard, Littleproud, his opinion also when I contemplate the Mitchell, Quinn, Santoro, Seeney, Simpson, Slack, privatisation of the TAB. Springborg, Stephan, Veivers, Watson. Tellers: Baumann, Hegarty I emphasise that Premier Beattie has taken the truly democratic path. We currently Pairs: Rose, Sheldon; D'Arcy, Malone; Briskey, have a party policy against a privatised TAB, Rappolt; Rowell, McGrady so we would be dead wrong if we did not go Resolved in the affirmative. 22 Oct 1998 Grievances 2767

GRIEVANCES enforce appropriate uniform standards. The Leckie Road Connection; Airport Motorway 1997-98 Ombudsman's report has created an uncertainty on this issue that needs to be Mr SANTORO (Clayfield—LP) (7.01 p.m.): clarified at the earliest opportunity. It is my view I wish to talk tonight about the decision by the and understanding that the establishment and Beattie minority Labor Government not to enforcement of appropriate uniform standards proceed with the sale of land along the Leckie are supported by the vast majority of parents, Road connection. My challenge to the and also by the Queensland Teachers Union honourable member for Chermside, who lives and the Queensland Council of Parents and right smack bang on the Leckie Road Citizens Associations. connection, is to take up the challenge to the Minister for Main Roads and Minister for Australia has a unique history with respect Transport and to be of assistance to the to the wearing of school uniforms. Although member for Clayfield as he fights again for the steeped in the traditions of the old English sale of the Leckie Road connection. public school, the practice in Australia has its basis more in egalitarian principles that sought The honourable member for Chermside to remove the contrast between children from was very much part of the original decision by families from different socioeconomic the now discredited Goss Labor Government backgrounds. I support that principle. Uniforms to build an airport motorway through my also assist in maintaining discipline and in electorate. Only because of me and the focusing the minds of students on their role organisational and strenuous efforts of the and place within the school community. They local community was that proposal put aside also provide a significant contribution towards and destroyed once and for all. We thought enhancing the security of students within that it was once and for all destroyed when the school grounds. Easy identification of coalition Government came to power and students, visitors or unauthorised persons on a decided to sell that land as a result of a school ground is a crucial safety issue for decision by the Minister—then the Honourable today's schools. Vaughan Johnson, the member for Gregory and then Minister for Main Roads and It is interesting to note that countries that Transport—and, of course, the Government as have a long tradition of not making uniforms a whole. compulsory—for example, the United States—are now starting to re-evaluate their During all of that battle, the honourable stance and examine the benefits of such a member for Chermside, who constantly chides policy. In Australia, we have a longstanding me, has been singularly silent. He lives in the tradition that has worked well and is worthy of community through which that road is going to protection. Any initiative undertaken by the go. He goes to church, he has his friends, he Government should enable the decision on has his Labor Party branch members, his whether uniforms are to be compulsory to be supporters and his mates, yet he remains determined by the local school community. singularly silent. The honourable member for Any other approach would be unsatisfactory. Chermside will do nothing again, and it will be In this regard, I believe the Government up to me, as the local member of the should be examining the possibility of electorate within which the honourable providing legislative support to schools that member for Chermside resides, to force this choose the compulsory uniform option. Government to abandon its dastardly decision to reverse the decision of the coalition Government to sell off that land. International Garden Festival I say to the honourable member for Mr HEGARTY (Redlands—NPA) Chermside: save some of the reputation that (7.05 p.m.): The Nursery Industry Association you have lost amongst your friends, of Australia—NIAA—is left surprised and neighbours, party members, fellow church confused by the Beattie Labor Government's goers and all those people who expect from decision not to proceed with the International you some action and some resolve. Garden Festival planned for Queensland for Time expired. the year 2000. The NIAA held the licence to hold a garden festival in Australia and had been working on it for four years. Originally School Uniforms planned for Gosford in New South Wales, it Mr ROBERTS (Nudgee—ALP) was decided to move to Queensland late last (7.03 p.m.): I take this opportunity to call upon year after receiving bipartisan Government the Government to take the necessary action support. The site for the festival was to be the to support school communities that wish to old Roma Street goods yards, planned since 2768 Grievances 22 Oct 1998 the Goss Government days to be redeveloped from a two-week comatose condition and is into a park precinct. A major legacy for now receiving treatment for his illness at the Brisbane from the festival would be a Townsville General Hospital. permanent garden of international standard Harold is currently on dialysis three days a worth an estimated $97m at no cost to week and has reached a satisfactory level of Queensland taxpayers. The gardens were health. The high cost of treatment, planned to be named the "Millennium accommodation and living expenses since his Gardens", similar to projects of a lasting nature arrival over a year ago has totally consumed being planned by cities all around the world to his financial resources. If it were not for celebrate that event. community and church support, Harold's Although requiring over $200m worth of position would be extremely troubled. Harold's funding, capital and festival running costs are wife, Faith, and youngest son, Harry, have expected to be recouped and provide a come down to be with him during his ordeal surplus. The Government's financial and are being housed at Red Cross House. commitment is to underwrite the festival, During the months in Townsville, family and although private underwriting and insurance community desperately tried to raise funds for will substantially minimise the risk. The benefits the life-saving operation. A live kidney to Queensland are considerable. An estimated transplant is planned at Brisbane's Princess 13,000 jobs—man years—would assist the mid Alexandra Hospital and Harold's younger to long-term unemployed in particular. A brother is to be the donor. Anne Brooke further 25,000 jobs would be created indirectly Wagner consulted with me as soon as we through the festival. The number of ongoing were elected and the process to provide funds jobs provided through the established at last began. The Health Minister, Wendy Millennium Gardens has not yet been Edmond, acted immediately and the State estimated. The economic benefit to the Labor Government will fund the kidney Queensland economy is estimated at transplant for Harold Maroroa. That decision $4 billion. The boost to tourism from a six- will allow Harold to return to work as a PNG month event similar to Expo 88 is obvious. Government builder and allow his family to Most importantly for the long-term benefit of resume a normal life back in their home the horticultural industry in Australia and country. I am pleased to say that Harold's Queensland in particular, our industry will be brother arrives next week and the operation exposed to the world market and show our can now proceed. cutting edge, environmentally sustainable That story is an example of how horticultural technology, such as water communities can achieve desirable results by recycling, waste management and nutrient working actively and cohesively and involving a recycling. That will open opportunities for new committed Government. This Government is markets in Europe, Asia and the Americas for listening to the grassroots. This Government is exports, thus creating more jobs. proactive. I congratulate the efforts of all those Despite assurances given to the NIAA by involved in effective community consultation, the Labor Government when in Opposition but thanks must go to the Minister for her and subsequent assurances of support—— prompt action during our first couple of months in Government. Time expired. Time expired.

Mr H. Maroroa Gatton-Gympie Allgas Pipeline Ms NELSON-CARR (Mundingburra—ALP) Mr LAMING (Mooloolah—LP) (7.09 p.m.): (7.07 p.m.): I would like to recognise and I rise this evening to make a few remarks on commend the efforts of many community behalf of constituents in the electorate of groups in Townsville for their tireless Mooloolah in relation to the Gatton-Gympie endeavours to raise funds for Mr Harold Allgas pipeline. I believe that there is Maroroa. In doing so, I must also congratulate considerable goodwill towards having gas the organiser of fundraising, Ms Anne Brooke come through the area because of the Wagner. Soon after we were elected to office, economic benefits that it will bring. However, Anne approached me detailing Harold's plight. there are some problems. In common with Last September, Harold suffered renal failure. most of those sorts of initiatives, some people He fell into a coma and an emergency are asked to contribute more than others. evacuation from his home in PNG brought him Everybody benefits, but some people— to Townsville. Harold arrived in Townsville in particularly those who have the pipe go crisis without family or friends. He recovered through their property—are asked to make a 22 Oct 1998 Grievances 2769 greater contribution towards the outcome than official opening of the Kuranda State High others. School, which enrolled its first students in The contribution that those people are February of this year. This architect-designed making is in relation to the compensation that school is built on a magnificent, elevated site they would receive, the loss of potential for bordered by the Barron River in harmony with subdivision and further development and the its stunning rainforest backdrop. This 40-acre costs of having solicitors act on their behalf. site was purchased by the Labor Government. Some of them are very concerned that the However, I wish to commend the former valuers from the company have not even Minister, Bob Quinn, and member for Barron visited their property. Land in Mooloolah is not River, Lyn Warwick, for following through on similar to broadacre land, where one acre the Labor commitment. I acknowledge their might be very similar to another. In those strong support for that school. tighter areas in Mooloolah, the properties are Mr Johnson: And the roadworks. only small, but it is all that many of those Dr CLARK: Also the roadworks. Although people own. It is very important to them. One it is true that the official opening of the gentleman and his wife want to sell their Kuranda State High School was a long time in property. This has been going on for 18 coming, it was well worth the wait. The dance months. They do not know how to value the and musical items showed clearly both the property when they do not know whether the talents of the students and the cultural pipe will go through their property. They also diversity which is a unique feature and strength have the problem that future water and of the school. I congratulate Principal Jenny sewerage pipes might not be able to cut Jensen and her staff on their innovative through the gas easement. They need advice program that values each and every one of on those issues. They now have to pay for the students and helps them to achieve their solicitors to act on their behalf. If the pipeline individual potential. was not going through, they would not be going anywhere near solicitors. I call on the I would also like to recognise the Minister to talk with his departmental officers commitment of those members of the and the people from Allgas and ask them to community who have worked so hard since explain to people how to proceed as soon as 1978 to make their dream of a high school in possible. Kuranda a reality. I feel privileged to have played a role in obtaining the land and so Time expired. helping to realise that dream. Time expired. Kuranda State High School Dr CLARK (Barron River—ALP) Caboolture Business Enterprise Centre (7.11 p.m.): The Kuranda region was included Mr FELDMAN (Caboolture—ONP) (Leader in the Barron River electorate following the of the One Nation Party) (7.13 p.m.): Jobs, 1992 redistribution. The lack of services in that jobs, jobs is the cry of Premier Beattie and his area, which had been part of the Tablelands Labor Government. It is the cry also of all electorate held by the National Party member, parties in this House, and rightly so, because Tom Gilmore, was immediately apparent to through jobs the wealth, prosperity and me. The lack of a high school and an progress of our community can be directly ambulance station was of particular concern. transferred into individual and family wealth Subsequently, I made it my top priority to and thereby improve and strengthen our remedy this appalling situation, which was society economically and socially. That is why I largely the result of a past failure to identify again draw the attention of the Minister for and purchase land that had the support of the Employment, Training and Industrial Relations community. I put a lot of time and energy into and other members of this House to the addressing these problems, working very success of the enterprise centre at Caboolture. closely with the community and the Mareeba This centre is probably the most successful Shire Council. centre in Queensland. In August 1995, those efforts paid off and Since the centre opened in 1995, it has the Kuranda Ambulance Station opened, created some 855 jobs in about 500 which is providing an excellent service to the businesses. That is a great achievement and community. Providing a high school took a little helps to explain why Caboolture is one of the longer, but I am pleased to inform the House nation's great growth areas. The centre is that last week I joined the Minister for strongly community based, with 373 individual Education, the Honourable Dean Wells, at the small businesses joining in just three years and 2770 Grievances 22 Oct 1998 attests to the CBEC's credibility to the recommendation by the training division was community. made on 8 July 1998. At the time, this was not Now, as a direct result of the CBEC's brought to the attention of either the director- support and help, some 530 new ventures are general or me. On 22 July 1998, ANTA up and running. These employ some 920 local endorsed funding to the department. people. That means 25 new enterprises have However, this does not complete the been established every month since April process. Under existing arrangements, the 1998. It also means that some 45 full-time training division would forward the proposal for jobs have been created every month during approval of the project and expenditure to the that same time. These are tremendous director-general and/or the Minister, depending achievements. These indicate what can be on the level of funds involved. Before any such done when Government gives a free rein to funding approvals were sought either from the individual enterprise at the community level. director-general or me, a number of relevant The leadership of the CBEC deserves full issues came to light. credit and commendation for the excellent Contrary to suggestions in Opposition service and support that it is giving to job questions today, no funding approvals for the creation—jobs, jobs and more jobs. The MIGATE proposal have ever been given by Caboolture Business Enterprise Centre the director-general or me. The training division deserves the full support and confidence of has requested ANTA to suspend action on the the Government, which would include the full funding to the department pending further funding entitlement of such enterprise centres. advice. The training division has commissioned I commend the enterprise centre concept to a study of the training needs in the Mount Isa the House and, in particular, the Minister's region and the viability of the MIGATE Skills pledge to the Caboolture Business Enterprise Centre proposal. Both TAFE and MIGATE Centre—a centre that has a proven record and have agreed to this study. is in general a proven model for enterprise centres, ideal for both this State and this I inadvertently advised the Parliament, nation. based on advice from the department this morning, that all of the processes for the funding of the skills centre occurred under the MIGATE Skills Centre previous Government. I now make it clear that, Hon. P. J. BRADDY (Kedron—ALP) after a review of the file, there has never been (Minister for Employment, Training and any approval to fund the MIGATE proposal Industrial Relations) (7.15 p.m.): I rise to clarify from me or the previous Minister or the my answers given in Parliament today department under either Government. I concerning the funding of the MIGATE Skills apologise to the Parliament for incorrect Centre in Mount Isa. My department has information I inadvertently provided in my reviewed the file and has advised me that the answers to questions this morning. processes involved were as follows. In July 1997, the department received from MIGATE Flinders Highway a proposal for approximately $600,000 in funding for a skills centre in Mount Isa. Over Mr JOHNSON (Gregory—NPA) the next 12 months the department and (7.17 p.m.): I rise to point out to the House the MIGATE, in consultation with ANTA, reviewed state of play in relation to Type 2 road trains and refined the development of a detailed traversing the Flinders Highway in north proposal. On 1 June 1998, the department Queensland. The piece of highway in question referred a proposal to establish a skills centre is that which is located between Cloncurry and in Mount Isa involving $367,000 of ANTA Hughenden. The situation is that, with the funds to ANTA for its reaction. That referral curfew over that 259 kilometre section of road, advised that most of the ANTA criteria had these road trains had to have an escort been met and that, prior to making a formal vehicle. That is another impost not only on the recommendation to ANTA, the department industry but also on the transport operator. was awaiting the outcome of a whole-of-mining I say to the Transport Minister that this is industry study to see whether there were any a very ridiculous set of circumstances. Talk implications for the proposal. about road safety! These are some of the The study by the mining industry was most road safety conscious people in the delayed and the training division of the country today. The road transport industry is department decided to formalise the already on its knees. This impost is certainly recommendation to ANTA without waiting for going to further cripple the industry in north the outcome of the study. That Queensland. It will also affect the mining 22 Oct 1998 Grievances 2771 industry, the road freight industry and the Some of these measures include the livestock industry. installation and operation of a landfill gas and I say to the Minister for Transport: lift this disposal system. The collection and removal of curfew before everybody in north Queensland landfill gas is probably the single most goes broke. At a meeting that he will attend in significant odour control strategy. The EMP Mount Isa on 26 October, I plead with him to requires full gas collection for closed cells, show commonsense and to listen to what rather than the precious pilot program in gas these people are saying. Some of these road collection. Methane levels will be measured trains can sit up to 12 hours or 14 hours above the landfill surface and in site buildings waiting for an escort vehicle. At the same time and other structures. Also, future cells will be we have cattle standing on road trains. These smaller than the present size of cell 3. I believe cattle are destined for the meatworks. So that that these measures will rectify the present and future problems of the dump. I thank the delay is a cost to the producer, a cost to the Department of Environment and Heritage for meatworks and a cost to the transport industry. the effective guidelines that it has placed on We have to keep the industry viable in the Brisbane City Council in its operation of the trying economic times. We all know that the Rochedale landfill site. road has been carrying Type 2 road trains for a Time expired. long period. If the Minister wants to play politics with industry—the mining industry, the freight industry and the livestock industry—he Coorparoo Secondary College is not being fair dinkum about creating jobs in Mr QUINN (Merrimac—LP) (Deputy Queensland, especially north Queensland. Leader of the Liberal Party) (7.22 p.m.): This The mining industry is on its knees as a result morning, the Minister for Education tried to of some of these ridiculous decisions. salvage some pride from the wreckage of his Time expired. attempt to short-change the parents and students of the Coorparoo Secondary College. The Minister announced that he would fund Rochedale Landfill Site the full extent of preliminary site works associated with the construction of multi- Mr REEVES (Mansfield—ALP) purpose ball courts at the Coorparoo (7.20 p.m.): I rise tonight to inform the House Secondary College. It was not correct when he of the requirements that the Environment said that the project was an unfunded promise Department has imposed on the Brisbane City of the previous Government and that the Council in its operation of the landfill site at P & C would have to pay an extra $40,000. As Rochedale. As many members of the House, proof, I table two letters from Education including the member for Redlands—who, Queensland to the school's P & C. The first, unfortunately, is not here—will attest, many dated 9 February 1998, states— years ago I fought hard to stop the dump. Unfortunately, many of the concerns that were "I refer to the school's proposal to expressed then have come to realisation. The construct a multi-purpose courts complex promise of world best standards has not been and confirm the government's delivered in the operation of the landfill. commitment to provide a suitable platform for the facility." Therefore, the Department of Environment and Heritage has taken steps to Education Queensland was fully aware of its obligation to fund the full extent of providing a force the licence operators to spend immediately nearly $10m to fix the problems. platform for the multi-purpose area. The Those steps will ensure that the problems of second letter that I will table is also from the present are rectified and will also mean Education Queensland to the school. It is that future problems can be avoided. The dated 19 June and tells the P & C to go ahead stringent guidelines will allow the Department with the project and keep separate the costs of of Environment and Heritage to constantly the platform and the courts. monitor the performance of the dump and The Education Minister's exercise in allow for the enforcement of these strict deception this morning was a disgrace. requirements. In fact, any breaches will result However, even more disgraceful and in much higher penalties. Further, the despicable is the cynical approach that this department can place extra requirements on Minister and his partner in deception, the the operators to ensure that residents are not member for Greenslopes, have taken. Despite subjected to detrimental health effects and the fact that the funding was in place under diminished lifestyle qualities. the previous Government, and even though 2772 Grievances 22 Oct 1998 the contractor is almost finished the work and was re-released by the previous Government. is seeking payment—— However, clearly more work needs to be done. Mr FENLON: I rise to a point of order. I Our focus is now on expanding find the suggestion that I have been involved community-based services, particularly in far- in any form of deception highly irregular and north Queensland and regional Queensland. offensive. I ask that it be withdrawn. Emphasis will be on closer integration of public, private and not-for-profit sectors to Mr QUINN: I withdraw. It is my promote shared-care service, suicide understanding that the Minister is refusing to hand over the money before speech night prevention programs, improved appropriate when he or the member for Greenslopes can housing for the mentally ill and better bask in the reflected glory of the hard work of adolescent services. the previous member for Greenslopes, Ted Radke, who secured this funding. Wandoan State School Mr SEENEY (Callide—NPA) (7.26 p.m.): Mental Health Week The Wandoan State School is badly and indisputably in need of a new administration Mrs LAVARCH (Kurwongbah—ALP) block to solve many of the problems with which (7.24 p.m.): On Sunday, the Minister for the school community is currently struggling. Health, the Honourable Wendy Edmond, There is no space for effective administration, launched Mental Health Week in conjunction no dedicated office space for the principal or with Melanie Scott, president of the heads of department, no space for confidential Queensland Association of Mental Health, and interviews and nowhere for specialist Keith Williams, the executive director. The personnel, such as speech pathologists and incidence of mental health problems in the guidance officers, to talk to students during community is higher than most would expect. their visits to the school. The previous coalition A 1997 Australian Bureau of Statistics survey Government recognised this rather obvious found that almost one in five Australian adults problem and had plans drawn up for a new fitted the criteria for a mental disorder at some block to be built at the Wandoan school. Of time in the 12 months prior to the survey. One course, the school P & C has heard nothing of in five of us will experience a mental illness or this since the election and wrote to me and the a serious mental health problem. Mental Minister seeking a start date for the building. I Health Week is about increasing community also wrote to the Minister seeking a start date awareness and understanding of mental for the Wandoan project. health issues. On 1 October I received a copy of a letter The message of this Mental Health Week to the Wandoan P & C from the Minister's is: it is on for young and old. This message office. That letter was not even signed by the has been chosen to remind us that people of Minister; it was signed by a ministerial adviser. all ages as well as all social and cultural groups It very arrogantly states— can suffer from mental illness. It has been a "The Minister is unable to give an neglected area. However, we have come a indication as to when funding will become long way in our approach to treating mental available for this project to proceed." illness. We have certainly come a long way since the Carter commission of inquiry into It concludes— Townsville's Ward 10B. "Your interest in the welfare of the Labor is proud of its achievements in students attending Wandoan State mental health care reform. During our six years School is appreciated." in Government, we put the focus firmly on the It is a shame that the obvious interest that patients. Queensland was widely applauded the Wandoan P & C has in the welfare of the as the first State to introduce minimum service students attending the Wandoan State School standards. By the time that the Burdekin report is not shared by the Minister and his policy into human rights and mental health in adviser. They have obviously killed off this Australia was released in 1995, Queensland project or delayed it indefinitely, as they have had already put into place an action plan for done or tried to do with so many other ongoing reform. I speak of the Queensland projects, large and small, throughout regional mental health plan that was released by the Queensland. This is yet another example of then Minister, Ken Hayward, the member for the contempt that the Labor Government has Kallangur, in 1994. This was a significant step for communities and people living outside the forward for Queensland mental health and major urban areas. The Minister for Education would appear to have bipartisan support as it stands condemned for his arrogant letter to 22 Oct 1998 Special Adjournment 2773 the Wandoan P & C, which he could not even Pacific Coal Management. If I can help in find the time to sign himself. getting miners back on the job, I am prepared I call on the Minister to reconsider his to give it my best shot. That is my role. I do not decision and to allocate some funds to this want to butt in, but if I can be of any much-needed project for the children in the assistance to either of the parties, I am only Wandoan State School so that they can to too happy to do so. The economy needs jobs some small degree enjoy the type of facilities and the workers in the area have the expertise that city children take for granted every day of and the commitment to get on with the job. I the week. believe that with the right commitment, good faith and goodwill, we can get Gordonstone operating again. Gordonstone Mine The company's managing director was Mr PEARCE (Fitzroy—ALP) (7.28 p.m.): I right when he said, according to today's note yesterday's announcement that Rio Tinto Courier-Mail, "We have to hire the best has bought the majority stake in the people." Gordonstone's world record breaking Gordonstone mine, which is in the Fitzroy production figures demonstrate the ability and electorate north-east of Emerald. As members expertise of the mine's available work force. It would be aware, for over 12 months the is time for coal producers to stop the billion Gordonstone mine has been closed by its dollar expenditure on expertise. It takes years owners, Arco Coal, because of its inability to for workers to gain all the skills that are reach an agreement with its work force. As the required and our mineworkers have those skills mineworkers' representative in this place, I am and commitment. I say to the company: take keen to see Gordonstone back on line advantage of the dollars invested in those producing coal. I want to see mineworkers workers and get on with the job. back at the coalface. Therefore, I encourage the new owners and the unions to sit down at SPECIAL ADJOURNMENT the table and talk through the issues. Hon. T. M. MACKENROTH (Chatsworth— I am very much aware of both sides of the Leader of the House) (7.29 p.m.): I move— argument and the principles at stake. Only the "That the House, at its rising, do parties involved have the credentials to talk adjourn to a date and a time to be fixed through those issues. However, as the State by Mr Speaker in consultation with the member of the Queensland electoral district in Government of the State." which Gordonstone sits, I wish to make myself available if and when required to assist the Motion agreed to. unions and Rio Tinto's Queensland subsidiary, The House adjourned at 7.29 p.m.

R. G. GILES, ACTING GOVERNMENT PRINTER, QUEENSLAND—1998