Queensland

Parliamentary Debates [Hansard]

Legislative Assembly

THURSDAY, 29 AUGUST 1974

Electronic reproduction of original hardcopy

Questions Upon Notice [29 AUGUST 1974] Questions Upon Notice 407

THURSDAY, 29 AUGUST 1974 (2) Is the Caboolture Shire Council's expected rate revenue of $665,000, which is $256,000 more than that of 1973-74, caused by the higher valuations? Mr. SPEAKER (Hon. W. H. Lonergan, ( 3) Is there any substance in the claim Flinders) read prayers and took the chair at by the shire chairman that some of the 11 a.m. valuers appeared only to have driven down roads before setting their valuations? PAPERS ( 4) Is there any substance in the cla!ms by the shire chairman that the Valuer­ The following papers were laid on the General's Department did not have enough table:- trained men to carry out the valuation Orders in Council under the Industrial of the shire and that it had been one Development Act 1963-1973. big guess, which had been wrong? Regulations under- (5) What amount of money has been Motor Vehicles Insurance Act 1936- granted to the council out of the $9 1974. million Federal grant which was announced Primary Producers' Assistance Act 1972. on August 23? (6) Could any of this money be used to reduce the rate increase recently PETITIONS approved by the council?

KINGSTON HOUSING COMMISSION AREA Answers:- Mr. D'ARCY (Albert) presented a petition ( 1) ''The matter of the amount of rates from 210 electors of Albert praying that the levied in a local authority area is a matter Parliament of Queensland will provide the for decision by the local authority itself. necessary finance to enable urgent sanitary If the total amount of the rates levied work to be carried out in the Housing in a shire is increased this is in no way Commission area of Kingston. the responsibility of the Valuer-General, although the Valuer-General's valuation Petition read and received. can result in some individuals paying higher rates even if the council does not increase SCHOOL-CHILDREN'S Bus FARES the total amount of the rating levy. This would be the case where an increase is Mr. LANE (Merthyr) presented a petition more than the average in the local auth­ from 390 citizens of Brisbane praying that ority area. The reverse would apply if the Parliament of Queensland will take all an increase was less than the average." necessary steps to move for an immediate restoration of school-children's concession (2) "No. The council's rate revenue in rates, or free travel, on Brisbane City Council any particular year is solely dependent on buses. the budget adopted by the council for that year and the rates founded on such budget. Petition read and received. The additional rate revenue budgeted for by the council this financial year I under­ stand is $256,000 above last year's revenue. ORDER IN GALLERY If this is so it indicates that the council has increased the incidence of rating by Mr. SPEAKER: Order! Will the police­ $256,000 above any amount that could women please remove the posters from the be attributed to recent re-valuation of gallery and also the persons responsible for Caboolture Shire." displaying them. (3 and 4) "Valuers employed in the Mr. Marginson interjected. Valuer-General's Department are regis­ tered by the Valuers Registration Board Mr. SPEAKER: Order! I shall deal with of Queensland. The valuers do upon occa­ the honourable member if he interjects again. sions have assistants working with them who are under their direct supervision. Any valuer who does not properly investi­ QUESTIONS UPON NOTICE gate a valuation would be failing in his duty and the alleged statements by Coun­ INCREASED RATES AND LAND cillor Barr are somewhat surprising in view VALUATION, CABOOLTURE SHIRE of the fact that in a newspaper published on November 3, 1971, when the valuation Mr. Frawley, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Local Government,- was first released, Councillor Barr is reported to have stated-That the Valuer­ ( 1) Is there any substance in the recent General based his valuations on comparable statement by the chairman of the Cabool­ sale prices, and although there would prob­ ture Shire Council that the council was ably be some anomalies, which could be not responsible for the recent rate increases corrected by appeal, one would have to but that they were caused by the new agree that values for the most part were high unjust land valuations? reasonably accurate'. The Valuer-General 408 Questions Upon Notice (29 AUGUST 1974] Questions Upon Notice

has informed me that he has enquired certain very large sums of money placed of the district valuer who supervised the at certain T.A.B. offices and which large valuation of the shire and he was informed investments on particular horses in double that in the performance of the task there and treble events have been responsible for was no shortage of registered valuers. It very large payouts to what appears to be is also mentioned that the notices of valua­ very active betting syndicates. In one tion were posted to landowners on October instance $1,600 was invested in a treble, 29, 1971, and the valuation did not come and involved only six horses in all. The into force and effect until June 30, 1974, total win dividend collected was $8,900. upon which date the amount of undeter­ I understand someone made a statement mined objections or appeals was below over a radio station that the Chairman of 15 per cent. of the valuation of the shire the Trotting Board wagered heavily on area. Therefore every opportunity has one of the horses involved in a recent been given to landowners to lodge objec­ inquiry in which two drivers were dis­ tions and appeals and to pursue them qualified. I am assured that such state­ before the valuation was utilised for rating ment is without foundation." purposes." (3) "Action taken by the stewards of (5) "$54,000." recent weeks has clearly demonstrated that (6) "I am advised that the council has they are faithfully carrying out their duties, already adopted its budget and made rates and at this stage I know of no sound and charges for the current financial year. reason for the setting up of a special form In these circumstances I do not consider of enquiry into the conduct of trotting in that the grant could be applied to reduce this State." such rates and charges. The grant could favourably influence the rates for the ensu­ ing year dependent on the financial policies of the council." AUCTION SALE BY W. BOARDMAN AND Co. TROTTING INDUSTRY Mr. Frawley, pursuant to notice, asked Mr. Frawley, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Justice,- The Treasurer,- (1) Further to his Answer to my Ques­ (!) Is he aware that there appears to tion on August 21 regarding an auction be a purge on Queensland's top trotting sale conducted by W. Boardman and Co. drivers, namely Brian Pelling, Rodney Bel­ on June 6, can the principal of this auction, ford, Ross Croghan and trainer Noel Crog­ Mr. R. Egger, Kelvin Grove Road, Kel­ han, who were recently disqualified for vin Grove, be forced to supply the goods 12 months, and that a charge was made purchased at this sale? over a radio station that the chairman (2) Is he aware that Mr. Egger is well of the Trotting Board wagered heavily on known to Brisbane auctioneers and that the winner of one of the races which this is not the first occasion on which he resulted in a disqualification? has refused to supply goods after receiv­ (2) Does this indicate that there is ing payment? something seriously wrong with the trot­ ( 3) Why did the Registrar of ting industry in Queensland? Auctioneers and Commission Agents tell (3) Does he consider that the position Mr. Boardman that he must pay any is serious enough to warrant a full-scale money collected at the auction to his inquiry and, if so, will he. institute thh principal, Mr. Egger, even though this inquiry as soon as possible? man had refused to hand over the goods purchased? Answers:- ( 1 and 2) "I am aware of recent action Answers:- taken by the trotting stewards attached to the Queensland Trotting Board against a ( 1) "As I indicated in my Answer to number of drivers taking part in trotting the Honourable Member's previous Ques­ events at Albion Park, &mthport and Red­ tion this is a matter for determination cliffe trotways. As a result of enquiries, by the Court." certain drivers have been disqualified for (2) "The Office of the Commissioner various periods of time. Such action does for Corporate Affairs has no knowledge not indicate any particular purge, but I of any complaints of this nature against would point out to the Honourable Mem­ Mr. Egger." ber that what has happened did not surprise me, because over the past few weeks I ( 3) "No such instruction was given by have received a number of letters and the Registrar or any of his officers. How­ anonymous telephone calls urging a 'clean­ ever, I am informed that Mr. Boardman up' in what has been described as deliberate stated at an interview in the Office of race rigging. Further, I would inform the the Commissioner for Corporate Affairs Honourable Member that over the past that he had been advised by his solicitor three months I have had the Totalisator to pay monies collected at the auction Administration Board keep me advised of to his principal, Mr. Egger." Questions Upon Notice (29 AUGUST 1974] Questions Upon Notice 409

SALARIES AND ALLOWANCES OF (2) Will assistance of similar measure PREMIER'S STAFF be given to the council this financial Mr. Newton, pursuant to notice, asked The year? Treasurer,- ( 1) What salary and allowances are Answers:- paid to each member of the Premier's ( 1) "The State Government paid staff, including his Secretary, his Govern­ $1,471,916 to the Townsville City Council ment News and Information Officer and during 1973-74 by way of subsidies on his Air Pilot? capital works. Other forms of assistance given were-(a) the making available of (2) What other personnel, such as steno­ graphers, directly assist the Premier and debenture loan offers to the extent of his staff and what are their salaries and $1,341,000; (b) payment of State/Com­ monwealth grant of $208,069 1owards the allowances? cost of restoration of damage by Cyclone (3) What individual salary and allow­ Althea, which is now finalised; (c) approval ance-~ are paid to the Public Relations of State/Commonwealth grants for the Officer, the Senior Assistant Public Rela­ restoration of flood damage, $67,178." tions Officer, the Assistant Public Relations (2) "The level of subsidy assistance Officer, the Photographic Liaison Officer, paid to local authorities varies year by the Assistant Photographic Liaison Officer year according to the extent of capital and the Cinematographer? works carried out and the percentage ( 4) What is the cost of providing the Government subsidy applicable to those Premier with personal protection by works. The 1973-74 figure included a specially assigned police officers? substantial figure on account of the Ross River Dam. There is no certainty that the same level of subsidy will be attracted Answers:- in 1974-75. Moreover, the amount of (1 to 3) "The Premier's staff includes debenture loan offer assistance given will his private secretary, a female clerk, two be dependent upon the availability of funds stenographers and a press secretary. The for investment in this sector." total annual salary and allowances paid to these officers is $42,393. As was the case when I recently answered a question in relation to the staff of the Leader of BoHLB INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, TOWNSVILLB the Opposition, I consider it would be most Mr. Aikens, pursuant to notice, asked The unfair to nominate the salaries of the Minister for Development,- above officers separately and I do not (!) How many firms have been allotted propose to do so. The Air Pilot is not land at the Bohle Industrial Estate, Towns­ regarded as a member of the Premier's ville, for the purpose of establishing busi­ staff as she is engaged to pilot the Govern­ nesses or industries, and what is the total ment aircraft which is at the disposal of area of land involved? other Ministers as well as the Premier. The annual salary and allowances paid (2) What is the total number of people to the Air Pilot, the Public Relations employed on the estate? Officer, the Senior Assistant Public Rela­ (3) What is the estimated total amount tions Officer, the Assistant Public Relations of money involved in the construction of Officer, the Photographer, the Assistant buildings, roadways or any other works Photographer and the Cinematographer ancillary to the various undertakings? total $76,658. However, I would point ou1 that whilst these officers are attached (4) Has the Commonwealth A.L.P. to the Premier's Department, they provide Government assisted in any way in the a service for all sections of Government." development of the estate and, if so, to what extent? ( 4) 'The cost of providing the Premier with personal protection would come· within the normal operations of the Police· Answers:- Department and no particular dissections ( 1) "Fourteen firms have been allocate.d are maintained of individual assignments." sites on the estate totalling 23 · 5 hectares." (2) "Approximately 125 persons."

FINANCIAL AID TO TOWNSVILLB CITY (3) "The Department of Commercial CouNCIL and Industrial Development has expended approximately $700,000 on land acquisition, Mr. Aikens, pursuant to notice, asked The construction of roads, water drainage and Treasurer,- sewerage services for the estate and con­ ( 1) How much did the Queensland struction of a rental factory building. The Government give to the Townsville City various organisations established on the Councfl., in subsidies or other form of estate have invested $2 million in bui'ding assistance, during the year ended June construction, plant installation and associ­ 30, 1974? ated works." 410 Questions Upon Notice (29 AUGUST 1974] Questions Upon Notice

( 4) "No. The State Government has (2) What are the names of the com­ financed the whole of the development of panies and what were the fines in each the estate." case? (3) What were the total costs incurred by the Crown in each case and were these FERTILISER SHORTAGE, MACKAY REGION costs levied on the companies concerned? Mr. Newbery, pursuant to notice, asked ( 4) What was the reason for prosecution The Minister for Primary Industries,- and by what margins did the companies ( 1) Has his attention been drawn to exceed air pollution standards? the non-availability of fertiliser mixtures in the Mackay region? ( 5) On how many occasions and for what firms has he or the Governor in (2) In view of the recent beneficial Council overridden decisions of the Air rains and the necessity for immediate fer­ Pollution Council in a similar manner to tiliser applications, wm he endeavour to the decision on the sulphur content of fuel rectify this serious interference to sugar at Greenvale? production? Answers:- Answer:- ( 1 to 4) "I refer the Honourable Mem­ (1 and 2) "Yes. My department has ber to the Answers I gave to the same maintained a close watch on the fertiliser Questions he asked on August 23, 1973." supply position. Following the Common­ wealth Government's announcement of its (5) "A request was received from Bab­ intention to abolish the phosphate subsidy, inda Sugar Mill on July 31, 1972 for and the increasing cost of fertilisers, there permission to use two oil-fired package has been considerable forward buying by boilers for two years with a thirty-foot farmers. This has reduced stocks held by chimney. This was considered by the the manufacturers to abnormally low levels. Air Pollution Council, who decided that The situation has been aggravated by indus­ a 125-foot chimney was required. This trial unrest, which has caused distribution decision was rescinded by the Governor problems and a cessation in the produc­ in Council on September 21, 1972, and tion of some mixtures. I understand that the Air Pollution Council was directed to manufacturing capacity is being increased, allow the sugar mill 'to use an existing and an improvement in the supply position chimney stack thirty feet high in associa­ might soon be expected." tion with the operation of two oil-fired package boilers until a chimney stack 125 feet high, as required by the Air Pollution OIL SPILLAGES Council of Queensland, can he constructed, but not later than the commencement of Mr. Burns, pursuant to notice, asked The the 1973 crushing season.' The taller stack Minister for Conservation,- was subsequently installed by the start of ( 1) How many oil spills have been the 1973 season." reported during 1971, 1972, 1973 and 1974 to date in Queensland? (2) How many of these spills occurred (b) Mr. Burns, pursuant to notice, asked in the Brisbane River? The Minister for Health,- (3) How many prosecutions were ( 1) Is he aware that the Queensland launched and how many were successful? Air Pollution Council director, Dr. Graham ( 4) What were the names of the com­ Cleary, has said that present investment in panies fined and whaJt were the fines levied research and environmental pollution con­ against each? trol will have to be increased immediately if we are to maintain present standards? Answer:- (2) What action has his department ( 1 to 4) "The information sought by taken to increase this most vital research, the Honourable Member is not readily what sums were spent in the years 1971-72, available at the Department of Harbours 1972-73 and 1973-74 on such research and and Marine. I have arranged for it to what was the percentage increase on each be collated from all Queensland port occasion? authorities and forwarded to the Honour­ (3) Did Dr. Cleary suggest that there able Member as soon as it is available." should be a limit on car-engine · sizes through disincentives such as taxation and prohibitive legislation? AIR PoLLUTION CoNTROL ( 4) Did he suggest that engines should (a) Mr. Burns, pursuant to notice, asked he restricted to a 3.5 litre capacity? The Minister for Health,- (5) What is the Government's intention ( 1) How many companies have been on this matter and what steps are planned prosecuted under the provisions of the on a State basis to control pollution from Clean Air Act? motor vehicles? Questions Upon Notice [29 AUGUST 1974] Questions Upon Notice 411

Answers:- . (5) "The Government will closely exam­ ( 1) "The Honourable Member is prob­ me all developments in this field. The ably referring to a talk given by Dr. following Australian Design Rules and Graham Cleary back on April 9 of this· Draft Regulations have been incorporated year to a joint meeting of the Clean Air into the legislation of Queensland under Society of Australia and New Zealand the Motor Traffic Act to control emission& and the Institution of Chemical Engineers. from automobiles. Draft Regulation 1202 The title of Dr. Cleary's talk was "Air (2) which applied to vehicles registered Pollution and Man; Status Fact and on or after July 1, 1970, and prohibited Phantasy". Dr. Cleary has 'advised that escape of crankcase gases to the atmos­ he did say that research in environmental phere, thus reducing hydrocarbon emis­ pollution and its control would need to sions. Australian Design Rule (ADR 26) be increased substantially to even maintain which applied to all passenger cars manu­ present environmental levels of pollution factured on or after January 1, 1972 and ~~ the fac~ of projected increases in popula­ limited the carbon monoxide conte~t of !JOn and mdustrial growth. He was speak­ the exhaus~ gases to 4 · 5 per cent. by mg on a global scale (not specifically about volume at 1dle. The more comprehensive Queensland) and his remarks should not ADR 27 which applied to all passenger be taken out of this context. Furthermore cars manufactured on or after January I, he was speaking about all forms of environ­ 1974, was based on a European regulation mental degradation (i.e. air, water, soil, and limited hydrocarbons and carbo~ heavy metal pollution, noise, radiation, monoxide when tested on a prescribed et cetera). As the Honourable Member time/speed cycle. Roughly, the percentage reduction from uncontrolled vehicles was m~y .know ~r .. Cleary was formerly a sc1ent1fic specmhst with the Head Office 25 per cent. for hydrocarbons and 56 per cent. for carbon monoxide. It is expected of the World He~alth Organization in Gen~va, Switzerland, and he is eminently that ADR 27A will be introduced and will qualified to make such judgments. While apply to passenger cars and derivatives in his former, senior appointment he was m<;nufactured on or after July 1, 1976. concerned with environmental pollution on It 1s based on the US 1973 regulation. The a global scale. Amongst other matters limits are hydrocarbons 2·1 grams per he gave advice on research needs and the vehicle mile, carbon monoxide 24 · 2 grams development of research programmes in per vehicle mile and oxides of nitrogen· environmental pollution generally (not con­ 1 · 9 grams per vehicle mile." ~ned to air pollution) and on the planning,· 1mplementat10n and co-ordination of col­ laborative research projects on national COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT regional and global bases. We ar~ INTERVENTION IN STATE SUPREME COURT extremely fortunate that he has decided to MATTERS settle in Queensland." Mr. W. D. Hewitt, pursuant to notice (2) "The Government of Queensland asked The Minister for Justice,- ' does not have a distinct research depart­ ment in the environmental sciences. Never­ ( 1) Will he conduct investigations, if theless the Government seeks to keep necessary in conjunction with the Western abreast of research developments in those Australian Minister for Justice to determine whether any action is p~ssible parts of ·the world where the major research to prevent the Commonwealth Govern­ effort is going on. That is to say in, ment obstructing and pre-empting lawful Europe, U.S.A., and the U.S.S.R. I should processes and the decisions of State add that in conjunction with other States Supreme Courts, in the light of the action of Australia and the Commonwealth the of the Commonwealth Government in pre­ Division of Air Pollution Control expects empting the decision of the Western Aus­ to become involved shortly in wide-spread tralian Supreme Court by using an monitoring of ambient ground level con­ R.A.A.F. plane to fly a Russian violinist out centrations of air pollutants in the major of Australia while a writ of habeas population centres in Australia. The' corpus was before the Western Australian information gathered will be a valuable Supreme Court against the cultural attache input to pollution research programmes." of the Russian Embassy to allow the (3 and 4) "The short Answer to both court to determine whether the violinist Questions is "Yes". Again, Dr. Cleary was leaving Australia by his own free will was speaking on the world scene and not or by Russian pressure? specifically about Queensland. Neverthe­ (2) Will he have this matter raised at less, in his view overly large engines; the next meeting of the State Attorneys­ encourage not only needless pollution but General with the Commonwealth Attorney­ are also a waste of resources (i.e. petrol). In respect to capacity he suggested that Genera:! and will he confer with the although it was difficult to decide 'off the Western Australian Minister for Justice cuff' specifically where the limit should to ascertain whether action is possible be, in his view this might be set at against the Minister for Foreign Affairs around 3t litres." for contempt of Court? 412 Questions Upon Notice [29 AUGUST 1974] Questions Upon Notice

Answer:- LAND UsE CoMMITTEE (! and 2) "The question of contempt of Mr. B. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked the Western Australian Supreme Court is The Premier,- one for the authorities in Western Aus­ (1) Who are the members of the Land tralia to determine. If any action is taken Use Committee under the Environmental by the Western Australian authorities, it Control Council and what are their will be a matter of public knowledge; and respective positions? at that stage a determination could be made as to whether the State of Queens­ (2) What reports have been completed land might become involved." by the committee and what are being prepared at present?

CONTROL OF MOTOR VEHICLE NOISE (3) Are reports now completed avail­ LEVELS able for examination by interested people? Mr. B. Wood, pursuant to notice, asked ( 4) Has the committee recommended The Minister for Works,- any changes in legislation concerning land use and is any action planned? (1) Has the Queensland Government adopted the Australian Transport Advisory Answers:- Council's recommendation on upper noise levels for motor cars manufactured after (1) "The members of the Land Use January 1 and motor cycles manufactured Committee of the Environmental Control after July 1? Council are-Mr. R. Skeates, Director (Planning & Development), Co-ordinator­ (2) Will the police rigidly enforce General's Department, Chairman: Mr. these regulations and what steps have been P. L. Ellis, Director (Environmental Con­ taken to do so? trol), Co-ordinator-General's Department; (3) How many prosecutions have been Mr. W. M. Robinson, Senior Forester, initiated since the regulations came into Reforestation, Forestry Department; Mr. force? A. Britton, Assistant Director of Harbours and Marine Works Division, Department ( 4) What technical equipment is of Harbours and Marine; Mr. D. Beattie, necessary to test noise levels and what is Chief Irrigation Engineer, Irrigation and presently available to police? Water Supply Commission; Mr. M. A. (5) What control is exercised over Johnston, Member of Land Administration vehicles, of all sorts, manufactured before Commission, Department of Lands; Mr. those dates? A. S. Muhl, Planning Officer, Department of Local Government; Mr. J. Woods, Chief Answers:­ Government Geologist, Geological Survey, (1) "Yes." Department of Mines; Mr. J. E. Ladewig, (2 to 4) "The specifications contained Director of Land Utilisation, Department in Design Rule No. 28 included in the of Primary Industries; Mr. B. J. Ryan, Table to Clause 99 of the Schedule to Australian Institute of Landscape Archi­ ·Part 13 of the Traffic Regulations pre­ tects Incorporated; Dr. G. McDonald, scribes decibel values to be determined Geography Department, University of under controlled laboratory conditions with Queensland; Mr. J. M. Armstrong, Secret­ expensive sound level measuring instru­ ary, Local Government Association; Dr. ments. The Advisory Committee on W. E. Westman, Queensland Conservation Vehicle Performance which recommended Council; Professor C. Rose, Chairman, to the Australian Transport Advisory Coun­ School of Australian Environmental cil the adoption of Australian Design Rule Studies, Griffith University." No. 28, has stated that it can find no (2) "The Committee has considered a correlation between the Australian Design wide range of specific land use issues on Rule test and any known uncontrolled which it has reported to the Environmental stationary test. The Committee could not Control Council, and has also made a define a suitable stationary test which could number of recommendations concerning be carried out in uncontrolled conditions, studies and investigations, e.g., studies of e.g. a roadside test by a police officer with coastal areas. Reports have been pre­ a portable decibel counter, and which pared on the following topics:-(a) would present clear-cut evidence to a court Environmental Impact Studies-describing that the sound being measured was the the nature and purpose of project-oriented sound solely of the subject vehicle." environment studies and associated respons­ (5) "Any motor vehicle irrespective of ibilities of State Government; (b) Tree date of manufacture is subject to Clause Clearing-existing controls; (c) Land Sub­ 76 of the Schedule of Part 13 of the division-concerning problems associated Traffic Regulations which states that there with some major types of land develop­ shall be affixed to the vehicle an efficient ment. The first of these reports was used silencing device so constructed that all as a basis for departmental action and exhaust from the engine is projected legislative amendments and is unpublished. through such device in such a manner that The second report is substantially com­ it will prevent 'the creation of undue plete and being published. The third noise." report is still under preparation." Questions Upon Notice [29 AUGUST 1974] Questions Upon Notice 413

(3) "It is intended that the Tree into environmental problems in order to Clearing report will be made available make available to the Environmental Con­ when published, and it is expected that trol Council scientific information to guide the Land Subdivision report will also be it in its decisions? made available." (2) If not, to whom does the Environ­ ( 4) "Yes. See reply to (2) ." mental Council refer its research pro­ grammes? (3) How many investigations have been ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES carried out by the Environmental Control (a) Mr. B. Wood, pursuant to notice, Council and what have been the main asked The Premier,- problems that it has dealt with? ( 1) What environmental studies have Answers:- been ordered by the Government since its policy decision on this matter? ( I) "No." (2) In each instance, which people or (2) "State departments, statutory auth­ bodies have carried out the studies and orities, advisory sub-committees, and in what details have been sought? some instances the Australian Environment Council. These bodies may seek con­ ( 3) Does the Government seek to sultant advice from private consultants or examine studies carried out by local tertiary institutions." authorities or statutory bodies? (3) "The Environmental Control Coun­ ( 4) Are studies, whether carried out for cil as a policy advisory and co-ordinating the Government or for other bodies, avail­ body does not normally deal with specific able for examination by interested people environmental research which may properly and, if so, which are available? be undertaken by existing State depart­ ments or statutory authorities; these are Answers:- referred to the appropriate organisations ( 1) "Environmental studies are called for attention. The main problems of a for by the administering department or specific nature that have been or are being authority which is responsible for granting dealt with by the Environmental Control approval for development. Since the intro­ Council are- (a) Formulation of the duction of the Government's environmental policy on environmental impact studies; policy in November, 1972, a large number (b) The preparation of a procedural of studies have been called for by the manual for environmental studies for use various administering authorities. A com­ by decision-making authorities and entre­ prehensive list would take considerable preneurs (public and private); (c) Con­ time to prepare." sideration of land use controls, e.g., tree­ (2) "The administering department or clearing, land subdivision, etc.; (d) Con­ authority is responsible for establishing sideration of noise pollution controls with guidelines for studies. When required, a view to preparing draft legislation for the the Environmental Control Council pro­ consideration of Cabinet; and (e) Con­ vides assistance to departments in formul­ sideration of the several problems relating ating guidelines. The choice of people or, to the disposal of solid and liquid wastes consultants to undertake studies is the on land, and the recycling of wastes." responsibility of the developer, public or private." (3) "Assessment is also the respons­ BEEF AcQUISITION ScHEME ibility of the administering department or Mr. Hartwig, pursuant to notice, asked authority. In certain cases the administer­ The Premier,- ing authority requests the Environmental In view of the depressed state of the Control Council to comment on the report beef market, which is at its lowest ebb but the final decision remains with the since the depression of the late 1930's, administering authority." and as prices are lower than costs of ( 4) "Whether a study becomes available production, will he approach the Prime for public examination rests with the Minister with a view to introducing a decision-making authority. The Environ­ Commonwealth Government acquisition mental Control Council has suggested to plan for beef, similar to that of the wool administering authorities that studies acquisition scheme? should be made available except where confidentiality is important." Answer:- "My Government has received no rep­ resentations from industry organisations requesting support for such a move. I (b) Mr. Sherrington, pursuant to notice, am fully aware of the problems facing asked The Premier,- the beef producers but the question is (1) Has the Government given consid­ one primarily for the grazing industry to eration to setting up an environmental make an approach on an Australia-wide research laboratory to carry out research basis." 414 Questions Upon Notice [29 AUGUST 1974] Questions Upon Notice

SoFTWOOD PRODUCTION tanker carries a full load and draws 32 Mr. Alison, pursuant to notice, asked The feet and channel depths at Urangan Minister for Lands,- required to service such a vessel would be 27 feet at low water in the channel and ( 1) What area of Crown land is avail­ 33 feet at low water in the berth. The able for softwood planting in (a) the costs of dredging and beaconing to pro­ State, (b) Tuan forestry area and (c) vide these depths would exceed $3 million Toolara forestry area? and when the Urangan port revenue of (2) By what year is it estimated that some $60,000 a year is taken into account (a) Australia and (b) Queensland will be such a development is not possible." self-sufficient in softwood production, based on the present respective planting rates? CONTROL OF LITTER (3) What assistance is given by the Mr. Marginson for Mr. Shenington, Forestry Department to private enter­ pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for prise interested in planting and maintain­ Local Government,- ing softwood plantations? Will he consider setting up a committee to investigate (a) the increase of litter Answers:- caused by the use of non-returnable con­ ( 1) "It is estimated that areas of Crown tainers and non-reusable bottles and its land available for softwood planting are effect on the environment, (b) what steps in excess of-(a) The State, 260 000 hec­ should be taken to minimise the increas­ tares; (b) Tuan Forestry Area, 40 000 hec­ ing amount of waste material as a result tares; and (c) Toolara Forestry Area, of 'this development and (c) improved 48 000 hectares." methods for the disposal or recycling of (2) "It is estima.ted that at present plant­ waste, to eliminate the costly and pollutive ing rates self sufficiency will be obtained­ procedures of burning or burying waste (a) in Australia by 2010; and (b) in material from the community? Queensland by 2005." Answer:- (3) 'The department supplies free an extension service to provide advice on "The matters raised by the Honourable suitability of species, cultural treatments Member are already being considered by and protection of the growing forest. Plants the Waste Disposal on Land Committee are provided at concession rates for bona of the Environmental Control Council fide plantings of forest plots and planta­ which functions under legislation adminis­ tions and seed is supplied at cost to owners tered by the Honourable the Premier." who have their own nurseries."

PROPOSED CONSERVATION DIVISION OF NATIONAL PARKS, WILDLIFE AND DEPTH OF WATER AT CENTRAL FISHERIES QUEENSLAND PORTS Mr. Alison, pursuant to notice, asked The Mr. Marginson for Mr. Sherrington, Minister for Conservation,- pursuant to notice, asked The Premier,- ( 1) What is the depth of water required In view of the need to co-ordinate the by the oil tanker which visits Urangan efforts of conservation of our indigenous and what depth of water is available at species, will the Government consider the ports of Gladstone, Bundaberg and centralising the various aspects of this Urangan? matter by setting up a Division of National Parks, Wildlife and Fisheries? If not, (2) Will he take action to ensure that why is it considered that these matters are dredging is carried out at the port of best handled by responsibility being spread Urangan, so that in future the tanker can over several Ministerial portfolios? visit Urangan first on its trip north? Answer:- Answer:- "Presently only two Ministers are ( 1 and 2) "The depth of water required involved in the administration of National by the oil tanker which visits Urangan Parks, Wildlife and Fisheries, and I am depends upon the load the vessel is carry­ satisfied that conservation efforts are ade­ ing. If the tanker was carrying sufficient quately co-ordinated." petroleum product to completely fill the storage tanks at Urangan it would require a depth of 27 feet of water. To half CoMMONWEALTH REPORT ON fill the storage tanks it would require BURDEK!N RIVER PROJECT 24 feet of water. The depths of water available at ports in Queensland depends Mr. Bird, pursuant to notice, asked The upon the state of the tide but available Minister for Conservation,- depths at low water are 34 feet at Glad­ Have any progress reports been received stone, 20 feet at Bundaberg and 17 feet from the Commonwea1th Government on at Urangan. On its northern voyage the the appraisal of the Burdekin River system, Questions Upon Notice [29 AUGUST 1974] Questions Upon Notice 415

which includes the proposed Urannah East Ayr State School under priorities as Dam? If not, will he ascertain if progress established by the Department of Educa­ reports will be forthcoming in the near tion." future? Answer:- SALE OF BUILDING LOTS, KUMBARI A VENUE, SOUTHPORT "The appraisal of the Burdekin Basin Mr. l\'larginson for Mr. D'Arcy, pursuant is being undertaken by the Burdekin Pro­ to notice, asked The Minister for Lands,- ject Committee comprising representatives of the State and Commonwealth. The With regard to the sale of building lots accelerated investigation programme is pro­ in Kumbari A venue, Southport, which is posed to be continued during 1974-75 and set down for Thursday, September 5- it is anticipated that a report on the ( 1) As the conditions of sale allow only overall study will be prepared when the one lot to each purchaser to ensure that investigation programme is completed. It the blocks are purchased by those wishing is not intended to prepare progress reports to build homes for their own use, and as on the various phases of the study. With the average prospective home-builder on respect to the Burdekin Extension the Gold Coast will find travel to Brisbane (Urannah Dam) Project it is believed that for this sale a great inconvenience and the Department of Northern Develop­ expense, involving a day off work and in ment's appraisal of the project is virtually some cases an impossibility, why is this complete. No progress has been made by sale not being held at Southpor:t, in accord­ the Bureau of Agricultural Economics on ance with the assurance given me by the their examination of the project." Minister? (2) If all blocks are not sold at the sale, GIRu-KILLYMOON CREEK SECTION, will prospective purchasers from the Gold BRUCE HIGHWAY Coast have to travel to Brisbane to buy a block? Mr. Bird, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Mines,- (3) How was this sale publicised on the Gold Coast, did notice of the sale appear When will major reconstruction of the in local newspapers such as the Gold Coast seotion of the Bruce Highway between Bulletin and what steps will be taken to Giru and Killymoon Creek commence? improve publicity in the local area for such sales in future? Answer:- " It is recognised that this section of the Answers:- Bruce Highway is losing shape and carries (1) "It is considered that this sale will a significant volume of traffic. As soon attract persons other than residents of the as the final details of the proposed National Gold Coast. Whilst the position of Gold Highways Bill are known a review of con­ Coast residents is appreciated, the sale is struction priorities will be carried out. not, and could not be, restricted to local This section of the Bruce Highway will residents." receive consideration when the programme (2) "Allotments which, having been is being drawn up.'' offered at auction and not sold, are, in terms of the Land Act and as stated in the sale notification, open for purchase LIBRARY BLOCKS, AYR AND EAST AYR at the upset price by the first applicant STATE SCHOOLS whose personally signed application, on Mr. Bird, pursuant to notice, asked The the prescribed form, accompanied by the Minister for Works,- prescribed deposit and full amount of sur­ When will construction commence on vey fee, is lodged with the Land Agent, the new library blocks at the Ayr and Brisbane." East Ayr State Schools? (3) "In addition to The Courier-Mail published on August 17 and 24, 1974, Answer:- notice of the sale appeared in the editions "The new library block to be con­ of the Gold Coast Bulletin on August 16 structed at the Ayr State School is one and 23, 1974. Such publicity is normal of the fifty-eight (58) school blocks to be procedure and considered adequate." erected progressively for the Department of Works, under contract by Jennings Industries Limited at 39 separate schools. EXPENDITURE ON METROPOLITAN The contractor's programme at this stage RAILWAY ELECTRIFICATION for commencement of construction on the Mr. Marginson for Mr. D'Arcy, pursuant Ayr site is April 21, 1975, to complete to notice, asked The Minister for Transport,- by June 30, 1975, but the Honourable ( 1) How much money was actually Member will appreciate building com­ spent by the Queensland Government on ponents will have been in the factory pro~ the electrification of the metropolitan rail­ duction line well before that time. No way service prior to August, 1957 and prov1s1on is made in current draft pro­ what were the amounts in the respective grammes for a new library block at the years? 416 Questions Upon Notice [29 AUGUST 1974] Questions Upon Notice

(2) How much money has actually been It will be noted that the total expendi­ spent since August, 1957 on this electrifica­ ture since the present Government took tion and what are the respective amounts office is almost double the amount outlaid in each year? by the A.L.P. Government."

Answer:- NEw PoLICE STATION, SoUTHPORT ( 1 and 2) "Details of expenditure on preliminary works for electrification, with Mr. Marginson for Mr. D'Arcy, pursuant expenditure on quadruplication shown to notice, asked The Minister for Works,- separately, are set out hereunder. The ( 1) When will the building of the new expenditure under the heading 'Electrifica­ police station at Southport be commenced? tion and Associated Works' includes (2) Will this work be carried out by his expenditure on improvements which, of department and not allowed to go to public themselves, were desirable, irrespective of tender, as this would help to assure a whether electrification proceeded, but continuity of work for the employees of which were necessary pre-requisites to the the department? electrification of the suburban system. It has not been practicable to separate these Answer:- items. ( 1 and 2) "The project is in the for­ 1. Expenditure prior to August, 1957 ward planning stage and it is proposed Electrification and Associated Works to invite tenders for the work when the availability of finance is established. No $ indication can be given at this stage as 1949 12,729 to when this will occur. However the 1950 3,232 local Member Sir Bruce Small will be 1951 68,924 kept fully advised on this project." 1952 414,842 1955 79,944 1956 1,146,328 AUTHORITY TO PROSPECT 642M 1957 1,473,319 Mr. Marginson, pursuant to notice, asked Total $3,199,318 The Minister for Mines~,- Further to his Answer to my Question Quadruplicatinn on August 20- $ ( 1) What are the real property descrip­ 1951 73,910 tions of the portions included in the 1952 512,118 Authority to Prospect 642M? 1953 675,389 (2) What are the details of existing 1954 369,112 mining-lease applications referred to by 1955 998,196 him as part of the consideration for trans­ 1956 1,291,415 fer and what was the gross sale price of 1957 1,803,799 minerals mined from those lease applica­ tions? Total $5,723,939 ( 3) Did the holders of the authority to prospect incur expenditure to the amounts 2. Expenditure since August, 1957 specified in the conditions peculiar to this authority? If so, what were the amounts Electrification and Associated Works expended in the first year, the second year, 1958 1,336,510 the six months from July 1, 1971, the year 1959 1,013,910 from January 1, 1972 and the year from 1%0 1,134,136 January, 1, 1973? 1%1 274,471 1962 79,620 Answers:- 1974 247,760 ( 1) "The various parcels of land included in the Authority to Prospect are Total $4,086,407 shown on plan No. AM 2088 held at ,the Department of Mines, Brisbane. Copy Quadruplication of this plan I now table." 1958 2,081,446 (2) "The then existing Mining Lease 1959 2,016,161 Applications were Nos. 74, 75, 105, 113 1960 2,062,723 and 114, Nanango. However, Nos. 74 1961 2,535,287 and 75 are no longer in existence but 1962 1,480.745 parts thereof are included in M.L. 1963 770,718 Application No. 159 since applied for. 1964 397,768 Production details are available in the Warden Nanango's reports included in the Total $11,344,848 Annual Reports of the Under Secretary for Mines." Questions Upon Notice [29 AUGUST 1974] Questions Upon Notice 417

(3) "Actual expenditures are regarded private auction, tender and/or priv~e as confidential between the department negotiation, to bolster an unsound finanCial and the holder of the authority. How­ position caused by its financial extrava­ ever, the scale of required expenditures gance and mismanagement? was fully in keeping with that usually (2) If such a programme of land sales laid down for such authorities, whereas is being pursued by the council, is this in the last year the expenditure exceeded reducing the availability of land to it for requirements by almost $1,000, but in all constructing buildings such as libraries, previous periods the expenditures were and the reason for it constructing such more than double requirements." buildings on land reserved for park and Paper.-Whereupon Mr. Camm laid recreational punposes, and the alienation upon the Table of the House a copy of the of those parks by enclosing them for plan referred to. sporting purposes, thus reducing . the amount of open area for the pubhc to COMPENSATION TO VICTIMS OF enjoy and, in particular, reducing play CRIMES OF VIOLENCE areas for children? Mr. Alu~rn, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Justice,- Answer:- With ·reference to the new scheme ( 1 and 2) "Except in limited circum­ recently announced by Cabinet in relation stances, such as the sale of land acquired to compensation for innocent victims of by the Brisbane City Council for develop­ crimes of vlolence- ment or redevelopment purposes under the Brisbane Town Plan, the sale of land (1) How much money ls available to owned by the council is a matter within the relatives of a deceased person? its sole discretion pursuant to the City (2) Does this apply to victims regardless of Brisbane Act 1924-1973. I am aware, of age? however, that adverse comments have been (3) How much money is available to made in certain quarters regarding pro­ an injured person and is there any age posals of the Council to enclose park and qualification? recreation areas for use by sporting bodies and to erect a library building in one ( 4) In the event of a delay in the of the city's parks." apprehension of the perpetrator of the crime, what time must elapse before an application for assistance can be enter­ tained? DENTAL CARE FOR PRIMARY ScHOOL CHILDREN Answer:- Mrs. Jordan, pursuant to notice, asked The ( 1 to 4) "At this point of time it would Minister for Health,- be improper to make public details of ( 1) What is the total amount already any proposed amending legislation in rela­ spent on the new school dental service tion to issues raised by the Honourable designed to provide free dental care for Member." all primary school chHdren by 1980? (2) What is the total amount received CLOSURE OF DIRRANBANDI HOSPITAL from the Commonwealth Government for Mr. Melloy, pursuant to notice, asked The this purpose? Minister for Health,- Has the closure of the Dirranbandi Answers:- Hospital been under consideration or is (1) "The total amount expended by this now being decided? If so, when is my Department under the Commonwealth it to be closed and for what reason? Government's school dental service scheme Answer:- sioce its inception on July 1, 1973, to August 28, 1974 was $1,237,030." "I am not aware of any proposal for the closure of this hospital. The Dirran­ (2) "Commonwealth Government pay­ bandi Hospital is under the control of the ments for the same period was $952,833." Balonne Hospitals Board and the Manager has advised that the Hospitals Board does not intend to take any action to close HIGH ScHOOL FOR WESTERN SUBURBS, this hospital." IPSWICH Mrs. Jordan, pursuant to notice, asked The SELLING OF BRISBANE CITY COUNCIL Minister for Education,- LAND ( 1) Has there been any future planning Mr. Miller, pursuant to notice, asked The for an additional high school in the western Minister for Local Government,- suburbs of Ipswich? (!) Has the Brisbane City Council been (2) Has any land been acquired and, selling off every piece of available land if not, will he acquire land for this at the highest price it can get, by purpose? 418 Questions Upon Notice [29 AUGUST 1974] Questions Upon Notice

Answers:- courses, draws attention to the importance ( 1) "There are no plans for building of correct signalling of turning intentions a further high school in the North Ipswich and the proper use of turning signals. area in the immediate future. An in­ In addition, this is also dealt with in depth survey of needs in capital expendi­ Chapter 2 of the Queensland Traffic Code ture for education purposes is at present Handbook which is issued free to drivers being mounted in the Department of and in the Driver Training Manual which Education." may be purchased from the Queensland Road Safety Council. However, I will (2) "No land has been acquired for a certainly consider whether there is a need high school in the area as yet. However, to further emphasise this part of driving the purchase of seven blocks of land in behaviour in our road safety campaign." the Ipswich and near Ipswich area has been recommended. These are in the Churchill­ Leichhardt area; Raceview; Tivoli; Redbank CLEARING OF MANGROVE AREAS, Plains; Goodna; Goodna West and Goodna REDLAND BAY ISLANDS South." Mr. Dean, pursuant to notice, asked The Minister for Primary Industries,- With reference to the mangrove areas SECONDARY SCHOOL COURSES FOR on the islands of Redland Bay, since STUDENT NURSES 1968- Mr. Row, pursuant to notice, asked The (1) How many applications have been Minister for Health,- made to his department for felling and In view of the present difficulties being clearing mangroves and by whom? experienced in obtaining adequate nursing (2) How many acres or hectares have staff for hospitals, will he make overtures been cleared and for what purposes? to the Education Department to provide suitable special secondary-school courses (3) Is he aware that, according to esti­ to enable students to enter the nursing mates made to the end of 1972, approxi­ profession with more specific academic mately 27 acres, or 11 hectares, were qualifications than are available at present? cleared from Macleay Island alone?

Answer:- Answers:- " A pre-nursing course was first intro­ ( 1) "Since 1970 applications were duced at three metropolitan and two pro­ received from the following in respect of vincial high schools in 1969, to enable islands off Redland Bay:-T. Dickinson persons who were desirous of entering the Island Sales Pty. Ltd., Lamb Island; T. profession to retain and stimulate their Dickinson Island Sales Pty. Ltd., Russell interest in the nursing field. Subjects Island; M. C. Rose (Macleay Island), making up the course were considered at Perulpa Island; A. J. Fox on behalf of the time to be the most advantageous Peter Kurts Pty. Ltd., Russell Island; and to the interested student nurse and would K. L. Williams Garden Subdivisions enable them to have an early start with Investments Pty. Ltd., Russell Island. Prior their theoretical studies for the first year to February, 1970, applications were of the nursing curriculum. The course handled by the Department of Harbours lapsed at the end of 1972 mainly through and Marine, which Department comes lack of student participation." within the ambit of the Honourable the Minister for Conservation, Marine and Aboriginal Affairs." USE OF MoTOR VEHICLE TURNING (2) "No assessment has been made as INDICATORS to the actual acreage cleared. Any clearing Mr. Dean, pursuant to notice, asked The would have been for the purpose specified Minister for Transport,- in the permits issued and/ or in accordance with other Department's requirements." As it is becoming exceedingly apparent that many vehicle operators are using their (3) "Two permits were issued in May, turning indicators only when actually turn­ 1970 and October, 1971 in respect of ing and not before, will he consider hav­ Macleay Island. No estimate was made ing the road-safety campaign emphasise the of the acreage of trees removed." correct and safe procedure?

Answer:- SPORTING FACILITIES FOR STATE HIGH ScHOOL, MANSFIELD "I appreciate the interest shown by the Honourable Member and share his con­ Mr. Kans, pursuant to notice, asked The cern at this lax driving behaviour which Minister for Works,- is a breach of the Traffic Regulations. The As no sporting facilities are available at Queensland Road Safety Council, through the Mansfield State High School, when its films and publications as well as through will his department commence the pro­ the defensive driving and learner driver vision of these facilities? Questions Without Notice [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 419

Answer:- is a matter of grave concern for the who~e "The provision of sporting facilities on nation that we have a Government m this site is a major project involving a Canberra prepared to do everything in its staged development of drainage and power to bypass the Constitution as it stands reclamation works and the construction of and as it has been recognised by other a sports oval. Preliminary planning is Governments over the years. Unfortunately in hand and it is not possible to indicate the present Government in Canberra will not at this stage when the programme of work, recognise it in so many areas. as outlined, will be commenced." DECLARATION OF ELIZABETH Il AS QUEEN OF QUESTIONS WITHOUT NOTICE QUEENSLAND EFFECT OF COMMONWEALTH GOVERNMENT'S Mr. TUCKER: In view of that, I ask RESOURCES POLICY ON EXPORT OF PRIMARY the Premier as a supplementary question: PRODUCTS Has there been any submission from Queens­ land in regard to the question that he is Mr. TUCKER: I ask the Minister for now proposing, namely, to have the Queen Mines and Main Roads: In view of his declared "Queen of Queensland"? Has that statement yesterday criticising the Australian been put to the Constitutional Convention? Government's natural resources policy, while I appreciate the fact that the selling of our Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: Goodness me! primary products to Japan is important, how The Government in Canberra-- can he be so out of touch with reality in Mr. Aikens: It is already in the the light of the agreed price increase of Constitution. over 20 per cent for iron-ore to Japan announced in today's Press? Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: That is quite correct and as the Leader of the Opposition !VIr. CAMM: If the honourable member realise;, the' action we are taking is to have reads the Press report correctly, he will Her Majesty confirmed as the Queen of see that this 20 per cent was what was Queensland because some doubt may have agreed by the mining companies and the been cast on the issue as a result of the Japanese importing companies and is not the action taken by the Commonwealth Govern­ price that has been demanded by Mr. Connor ment to give Her Majesty the title of Queen in Canberra. of Australia. The Commonwealth's step has confirmed our contention that the Com­ COMMONWEALTH CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM monwealth Government does not want Her Majesty recognised as the Queen of Queens­ Mr. TUCKER: I ask the Premier: In land. In fact it has taken liegal action view of Edward Heath's attitude that Aust­ in an endeavour to prevent Queensland from ralian constitutional disputes are internal, having Her Majesty so recognised. We can the existence of the Royal Styles and Titles see the direction of the Commonwealth's Act, and the fact that the validity of con­ drift towards making Australia a totalitarian stitutional issues is decided in the High nation and Queensland a totalitarian State. Court, will the Premier recognise the folly of portraying himself as the guardian of At 12 noon, Queensland's sovereignty and pledge his Government to co-operate with other Aust­ In accordance with the provzszons of ralian Governments on constitutional reform? Standing Order No. 17, the House proceeded with Government business. Mr. BJELKE-PETERSEN: The whole question of constitutional reform is being considered by all the States of Australia at ADDRESS IN REPLY the Constitutional Convention. We meet RESUMPTION OF DEBATE-FIFTH ALLOTTED again shortly in Adelaide for another week. DAY This is the process that has been taking place and we in Queensland have always demon­ Debate resumed from 27 August (see p. strated that we stand very strongly and 357) on Mr. Lane's motion for the adoption firmly by constitutional procedures and of the Address in Reply. methods and thus with the Constitution itself. Mr. LICKISS (Mt. Coot-tha) (12.1 p.m.): We will always maintain this attitude. Our I wish to associate the citizens of Mt. concern is that the Commonwealth does Coot-tha with my expression of loyalty to not abide by such procedures and methods the Throne and thank His Excellency and has sought by various other means to the Governor Sir Colin Hannah, for his bypass the Constitution to eliminate, in effect, untiring and 'devoted services as Governor many of the issues for which the Constitution of this State. Like many other Queens­ stands. landers I trust that he will continue in office Consequently we have been compelled­ for ma'ny years to come. He is a . dedicated not only Queensland but other States as well, Australian and we are fortunate mdeed to and, on occasions, all the States of Aust­ have such a person as Air Marshal Sir. Col!n ralia-to take a very firm and definite stand Hannah as Her Majesty's representatrve m against the Commonwealth Government. It this wonderful State of Queensland. 420 Address in Reply [29 AuGUST 1974] Address in Reply

I congratulate my colleagues who moved been honoured and to what extent that Gov­ and seconded the motion for the adoption ernment should intrude into the field of of the Address in Reply. It is common know­ urban and regional development. ledge that, following the election of the In making a Queensland assessment of the A.L.P. Whitlam Government to the Treasury Federal Government's involvement in urban benches in Canberra in 1972, there has been affairs, I want to consider, firstly, the Federal a deliberate and concerted move to change Government's activities over the past 20 the life style of the Australian nation as well months and, secondly, the constitutional as the accepted constitutional forms of Gov­ aspects of Federal involvement in U!'ban ernment which this country has willingly affairs. Let me first deal with the so-<.:alled accepted and under which it has prospered activities. To date, the major elements con­ for many, many years. stituting this involvement in urban affairs No-one in Australia can deny that the include:- so-called system which we have enjoyed since (!) Urban studies Federation is unacceptable to the present (2) Land prices centralists of the A.L.P. Government under (3) Growth centres Prime Minister Whitlam and that his Gov­ (4) Sewerage backlog (now referred to as ernment is doing all that it can to change the national sewerage programme) that system to accord with its centralis! (5) Public transportation socialist policies enabling it to move this (6) Grants Commission country closer and closer towards a socialist (7) Housing republic and, in so doing, destroy the role In 1972, Mr. Whitlam promised action in the of the States and local government as we cities as a matter of urgency. Briefly I would presently know it. like to outline what has been achieved so far Today I wish to address myself to the in Queensland. Let us have a look at the first activities of this centralist Commonwealth one, which is urban development studies. Government in its moves to weaken State Funds have been allocated to Queensland for sovereignty and to intrude into the sovereign studies in the Moreton Region, the Fitzroy rights of the States. I wish particularly to Region and Townsville. Endless discussions refer to the actions of the Department of have occurred with Cities Commission Urban and Regional Development and its officers, and progress has been deplorably Minister, Mr. Tom Uren. I state quite slow. categorically that the department, under that The· second is land prices. In order to Minister, is designed as the vehicle to be used provide "land and housing at fair prices'' for the annihilation of the States and the the Federal Government has proposed- annihilation of local government as we pres­ (!) the establishment of a Land Com­ ently know it for the concentration of total mission and failing that the establishment power through fiscal means and any other of an Urban Land Council; means possible, and for the creation of a (2) the introduction of land-price unicameral form of so-called regional gov­ stabilisation legislation; and ernment throughout Australia beholden solely (3) the adoption of leasehold land to an all-powerful central Government in tenure. Canberra. However, Queensland already has the Land Mr. Speaker, it is one thing to make such Administration Commission which buys and statements: it is another thing to back them sells land in all Queensland's growth areas, up--and this I propose to do by example. !ln and a Housing Commission geared to provide doing so, I shall expose the present Federal cheap housing. One could expect then,. in Government's intrusion into urban affairs view of the Federal mood of urgency, that since it assumed office, and the purpose for Queensland would be well placed to take its so doing. I want to point out and clearly advantage of additional funds and the new demonstrate that, despite the A.L.P. prorpa­ initiatives promised by the Federal Govern­ ganda machine, in real terms the results in ment. In spite of this the State has not yet assistance to this State in the field of received a single cent. endeavour of urban affairs has been totally The third is growth centres. In his policy political and, from a material point of view, speech of November 1972, Mr. Whitlam almost worthless. said- Let me start now to draw quite clearly, I " In our first term of office a Federal hope, the picture as I see it. Prior to Labor Government will concentrate its December 1972, promises were made by the own initiatitves and endeavours on two Whitlam A.L.P. to the people living in the areas-Albury-Wodonga and Townsville." cities of Australia. Those living in the outer Where are these initiatives and endeavours suburbs of Sydney and Melbourne believed in Townsville? Could I ask the Leader of that those promises would be honoured and, the Opposition that question? He represents accordingly, the Federal Labor Party was part of the area. In that same policy speech voted into power. The promises related Mr. Whitlam emphasised the need for close to urban and regional development. Let us co-operation and consultation with local examine to what extent those promises have government. It is difficult to reconcile this Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 421

statement with the intention of the Cities urban areas of less than 60,000 pDpulation, Commission to establish development corpora­ and consequently cities such as Cairns, which tions which will wrest control of planning and is represented in this House by an A.L.P. development from local authorities. A refer­ member and in which .the A.L.P. member ence to the "Telegraph" of Tuesday, for Barron River also is interested, and Glad­ 4 December 1973, reveals the following stone, represented here by the A.L.P. member recommendations of the Commission of for Port Curtis, missed out on the opportunity Inquiry into Land Tenture- to participate. They are cities in which such 'The report says it is essential that the aid could have been of immense value. corporations take over the power to grant It is known that a longer-term agreement development consents from the local is being formulated, but unless the Federal councils so the future development is free Government honours its promise of real from political pressures or any imputation grant money-that is, non-repayable grants that vested interests are in a position to -we in Queensland must not raise our receive favoured treatment." The Whitlam expectations of equitable Federal assistance. Government has accepted the report. So much for co-operation with local govern­ What puzzles the State Government is the ment! It wishes to take authority from local way in which the Federal Government has government. It wants ad hoc corporations. approached the sewerage backlog problem. So repeating it, there has been no positive We would like to see an increase in the Federal action on growth centres in Queens­ debenture loan programme, which would land, irrespective of policy promises, and achieve the same objective for local author­ local government will be left lamenting. ities more cheaply and in accordance with State priorities. Unfortunately, the Federal The fourth is the sewerage backlog, now approach to the sewerage backlog problem is called the national sewerage programme. In indicative of its approach to other urban his policy speech, Mr. Whitlam said that a problems. It seems that it wants to be Labor Government would- involved in State urban affairs at any cost. " ... immediately ask the principal water I refer now to public transpDrtation. The and sewerage authori.ties what Common­ Federal Treasurer indicated that in 1973-74 wealth grants in the present financial year Queensland will receive approximately (1972-73) would enable them to embark $2,000,000 to assist in upgrading Queens­ promptly and economically (and I stress 'economically') on an uninterrupted pro­ land's urban public transport services. Thi~ gramme to provide services to all the assistance is based on the formula of $2 Commonwealth for every $1 State, and it premises in their areas by 1978". will facilitate the development of Brisbane's Mr. Whitlam went on >to say that- rail system. "for subsequent financial years, the Com­ It should be noted that in 1969 the monwealth Grants Commission will investi­ Queensland State Government had already gate and recommend the size of Com­ initiated planning for public transport monwealth Grants required to see .the pro­ improvements. A major element, namely, gramme through". the cross-river link, was a recommendation That promise was made by Mr. Whitlam in of the study and already subject to detailed November, 1972. feasibility study. Now, given the financial The Federal Government has offered assistance, the State is able to proceed with $3,100,000 :to the State Government for the implementation of this project and the selected local authorities in Queensland as a over-all programme. It is interesting to note loan fully repayable over 30 or 40 years, that the first year's programme was impos­ at the long-term bond rate, that is, $3,100,000 sible to mount because the agreement as a loan fully repayable. On required by the Federal Government had the other hand, the State Government has for not been negotiated and was in fact ratified years been assisting local authorities finance only in the next financial year. Only the their sewerage works on the following terms: fact that the State had allocated loan funds 40 per cent free grant, and 60 per cent to the cross-river connection allowed any repayable over 40 years. expenditure in 1973-74. The truth is that the Federal scheme, if I shall deal now with the Grants Com­ accepted by the local authorities, would mJssJon. In June 1973, the Grants Com­ double the sewerage rate for the householder. mission Act was amended in order to pro­ Therefore because the promised grants are in vide grants to regional groupings of local fact onerous loans, the Federal Government authorities. Regions have been defined by has not been of assistance in reducing the rthe Departm1ent of Urban and Regional sewerage backlog. Not only are the financial Development for this purpose, and it is conditions attached to this assistance gratifying to know that Queensland's expert­ unreasonable, but the areas qualifying for ise has at last been acknowledged, as assistance were restricted to the Brisbane evidenced by that department's adoption of Statistical Division and urban areas with the regional boundaries defined by the Co­ populations in excess of 60,000. Despite ordinator-General's Department for the pur­ State efforts, the Federal Labor Government pose of regional planning and regional co­ refused to extend sewerage backlog aid to ordination. 422 Address in Reply (29 AUGUST 1974) Address in Reply

However, this is small comfort in the amounted to $8,954,000. Nine local authori­ light of the Federal Government's proposal ties received nothing. Four of these were to deal direct with local authorities. This coastal local authorities, with difficult growth now appears to apply to regional groupings problems. The other five were from among rather than individual local authorities. the smallest local authorities in the State, and Historically, all the powers of the Federal one would expect that assistance to them Government and local authorities were in these days would be vital. derived from the States. Queensland, in Housing is next on the list. To assist establishing local authorities, did so in order in the provision of low-cost housing, the to provide assistance in administering the Federal Government promised the Queens­ State, and thereby promote the health, wel­ land Housing Commission loan funds at a fare and well-being of Queensland. fixed rate of 4 per cent instead of the The apparent wooing of a direct relation­ fluctuating rate of I per cent below the ship between the Federal Government and long-term bond rate. Conditional upon that local authorities is seemingly designed to was the Federal requirement that the houses weaken and ultimately destroy the State and be for rental purposes only. However, the local government relationship which, under State Government negotiated on this con­ a federal system, is the very essence of dition and it was agreed that up to 30 sound governmental administration. The per cent of funds could be directed to the Federal Government proposals represent construction of houses for private ownership. either complete ignorance of inter-govern­ Apart from the rental condition, two other mental relations, or deliberate sabotage of unfortunate factors attach to this aspect of existing State relations through the ruthless Federal involvement in urban affairs. Firstly, manipulation of State taxpayers' finances. it is likely to entail considerable increases The Queensland State Government has for in administrative effort and costs. Secondly, a long period operated a subsidy scheme the imposition of uniform eligibility stan­ that has been developed, and is evolving, to dards on an Australian-wide basis fails to suit local government expenditure priorities. recognise significant differences between dif­ It is interesting to note that the total of ferent parts of the country, and it hinders Queensland Government subsidies to local flexibility in administration. government on loan work approaches $22,000,000 per annum, and grows annually. It is another indication of the uselessness of centralised administration from Canberra. For example, note the following subsidies­ In fact, I do not think that the agreement Per cent outlining these proposals has yet been Water Supply 50 ratified. Filtration 33t In summary, the 4 per cent interest rate Sewerage 40 is satisfactory, but that aspect is offset by General Works the Federal rules, restrictions and eligibilities, 15 particularly the restriction on home owner­ School buildings and recreation ship that is Queensland State Government facilities 40 policy. As others have noted, the Federal Swimming Pools 25 Labor Government has an unhealthy pro­ Erosion 25 perty titles fetish which has dominated its Community facilities 20 urban proposals. Library 50 In the much-publicised cities programme­ Flood mitigation 33t a programme seen as a matter of urgency in November 1972-only a sewerage agree­ Electrification . . 50 ment of $3,100,000 has been approved, an? This subsidy scheme is irrefutable evidence I remind honourable members that that IS that the Queensland State Government has a fully repayable loan. That is a complete in fact been involved in an urban budget summary of the Federal Government's strategy for many years. For example, how efforts to date in urban affairs. many people realise that the Brisbane City Why is that so? Does the Federal Gov­ Council in 1972-73 received a State sub­ ernment have any intention of honouring sidy of over $5,700,000, including in excess its promises? Does the Federal Government of $2,000,000 for water and in excess of care about the people of Queensland? To $2,200,000 for sewerage? In fact, since date the Federal Labor Government's urban 1966 the Brisbane City Council has received programme has been characterised by inde­ subsidy approaching $30 million. decision and confusion, conflicting policies, On all counts, surely it would be more presentation of policies that have not been efficient and equitable if the so-called Federal thought through, and imposition of onerous grants were channelled through the State and conditions to which I shall refer later. There distributed in the established manner. Per­ are more characteristics, but they are less haps this system, which has worked in the complimentary. "The Bulletin" of 1 Decem­ interests of the community of this State, ber 1973, in an article headed "One Year's is peculiar to Queensland? Hard Labor" on page 14, notes that- What happened at the recent meeting of "There is a certain simple dedication to the Grants Commission? Total Grants Com­ activity, a hurriedness and a busyness in mission payments to local authorities the behaviour of these men and a disdain Address in Reply (29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 423

for reflection, indicating that they know of urban areas is an integral part of the precisely what needs to be done and the process of economic development, and only limit on achievement in government for this reason States must be able to is the energy they can apply to the formulate. and implement urban policies task." suited to their needs. We acknowledge that there has been action, :( 4) Every village, town and city has a but action does not constitute progress. A different culture and character of its own. man running on the spot is very active but This culture and character will be he gets nowhere-particularly if the spot is destroyed by domineering policies eman­ in Canberra. ating from a Canberra-based Government which is devoid of regional .feeling, In preparing my notes I thought of labelling physically isolated and ignorant of local the preceding section "Achievements" but customs and traditions. upon reflection I had to acknowledge th~t the only honest title would be "Activities". How­ Therefore, for very sound reasons, the State ever, I should like to take this opportunity to Governments have retained their sovereign point out that at officer level co-operation and right to exercise control in the field of urban consultation between the Governments have affairs. been substantial. The characteristics out­ Hned by me so far are therefore not a reflec­ While interfering in State matters the Fed­ tion on the abilities or personalities of the eral Government is spending less time in Federal officers. These characteristics are dealing with the many problems in the fields a reflection of the Federal Labor Party's which the States ceded to it. I refer ideology and approach to problem-solving. again to defence, communications, customs and excise, foreign relations, and so on. Its Having examined the Federal Govern­ performance in these fields is dismal indeed. ment's record of some 20 months of involve­ ment in urban affairs I should like to con­ I should now like to refer to the proper sider the constitutional aspects of that Federal role. To what extent should the involvement. Is it in fact constitutional for Federal Government be involved in urban the Federal Government to be involved in affairs, assuming that it is really concerned urban affairs? Today I believe it is oppor­ about the quality of life in the cities, and not tune and appropriate to clarify the rights of merely peddling its political ideology of cen­ the Federal Government and the sovereign trali!>ing power in Canberra? rights of the State Government with reference to urban affairs. Firstly, with a national perspective of urban growth, the existing powers of the Before federation all power rested with Federal Government, for example, over immi­ the States. The States then decided to form gration and social services, are sufficient to the Commonwealth of Australia and volun­ influence urban life. The Federal Govern­ tarily surrendered certain defined powers to ment should show that it is capable of exer­ the Commonwealth Government. These cising these powers responsibly before enter­ exclusive powers are confined to defence, customs and excise duties, currency and coin­ ing the field of urban affairs, and its involve­ age, external affairs other than certain inter­ ment should then only be in consultation imperial relations, Federal Territories and through the responsible State Government. the control of the Federal Public Service. Secondly, the role of a Federal Govern­ Examination of the Constitution clearly ment department dealing with urban affairs, reveals that the Federal Government has no such as the Department of Urban and right to impose any urban policies on the Regional Development, should be restricted States by attaching conditions to Federal to a purely co-ordinative and advisory grants and loans. Lest it be misconstrued function with reference to urban affairs that changing circumstances and technology where national priorities need to be estab­ warrant Federal control I should like to lished and additional Federal funds pro­ outline the rationale for the retention of the vided. If Mr. Uren gets his way, the States' sovereign powers over urban affairs, Department of Urban and Regional as follows:- Development will become a monstrous, (1) The State Government is more bureaucratic, pin-pricking department wit'h aware of, and more responsive to, the numerous subdepartments none of them particular and special needs and prob­ knowing what the others are doing but each lems of its citizens. going its own way. Confusion and wasteful duplication appear to be inevitable, particu­ (2) The States know best how to handle larJy if the Federal Government persists in their own problems. We would be able to duplicating State functions and instrumental­ handle these problems more efficiently if ities. In fact, the apparent lack of co­ our own money were returned to us with­ ordination between instrumentalities, both out conditions attached. within the Department of Urban and Reg­ (3) The State Government has primary ional Development and between the Depart­ sovereign responsibility for the economic ment of Urban and Regional Development development of the area under its juris­ and other Federal departments, is already diction. The development and growth evident. 424 Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply

Thirdly, the Federal Government, to prove (5) The introduction of a new concept its bona fides, could play a useful role by in State-Commonwealth financial relations, providing an urban development or infra­ namely, the interest-bearing grant, which structure programme fund which would be may be defined as a Commonwealth a general revenue-sharing fund. This fund euphemism describing a loan bearing a would provide for specific needs and State relatively high interest rate and repayable over 30 years, to be spent according to priorities. Within defined limits, access to Commonwealth specifications. such funds would facilitate the formulation of regional budgets. (6) The exacerbation of urban prob­ lems by increasing home-loan rates. In this regard, the financial aspects of (7) One could question the long-term Federal-State relations in the United States significance of the Grants Commission as are instructive. After a period of the the first step towards the replacement of Federal disbursement of conditional grants, the State and local governments with reg­ Congress recognised that the States know ional governments with total power vested best their own problems and how to solve in Canberra-well known as being A.L.P. them. Accordingly, Congress enacted the policy. State and Local Fiscal Assistance Act of 1972, which authorises $30 billion in (8) The imposition of blanket urban appropriations for general revenue-sharing policies formulated in Canberra without for the five-year period to 1977. Similar referenbe to State priorities or approaches. action by the Federal Labor Government in In conclusion-the State Government is Australia would constitute a badly needed willing to co-operate with the Federal Gov­ act of good faith in view of its long list of ernment in any scheme which will help broken promises and would encourage the Queensland as an integral part of Australia, States to view more favourably Federal but it will not do so at the risk of forfeiting involvement in urban affairs. its traditional and constitutional rights. The But the Federal Government has not Commonwealth ought to wake up to that. taken this approach, and the evidence of the Government-State, local and Federal-is past 20 months shows that its involvement no more than a means to an e"ld. ]n broad in urban affairs has, to date, been neither terms the goal of government is lhe satis­ successful nor constitutional. On the other faction of the needs of people. The dif­ hand, Queensland is approaching the future ferent levels of government merely reflect backed by the State and Regional Planning the recognition that some functions of gov­ and Development, Public Works Organiza­ ernment are more efficiently, effectively and tion and Environmental Control Act-legis- equitably performed at different geographical 1ation which was enacted over three years and administrative scales. ago, in 1971. We are pursuing a rational, well thought-out strategy for development It is essential that each level of govern­ and using our sovereign powers. The simple ment adopts its rightful role as outiined fact is that the State and local authorities in the State and Commonwealth Constitu­ need more Federally collected funds. We tions. Only in this way will inter-govern­ have the expertise to use these funds mental relations assume a spirit of har­ efficiently and equitably. mony, co-operation and respect ~nd a dedi­ cation to move forward in the mlerests of By way of reappraisal, before continuing the common good. this part of my speech I should like to reiterate the facts as they relate to Federal It has been said that as soon as a man involvement in urban affairs so that this is elected to a local government council Parliament can make its own evaluation. As he becomes an expert engineer. It seems I see them, they are as follows:- also that as soon as an A.L.P. member is elected to the Federal House he becomes (1) The State possesses all the an expert in telling the States how to run knowledge and experience required to their affairs. formulate and implement urban policies. (2) Conversely, the expertise of the I said at the beginning of my remarks Federal Government in the field of urban that the present Federal Government has affairs has been, and is being, acquired shown a passionate, ruthless ambition to at the expense of the States and local change the Australian life style. The pre­ authorities. To a large extent, this repre­ sent Federal A.L.P. Whitlam Government sents a wasteful drain on the resources has shown a ruthless disregard for State of the nation and unnecessary duplica­ sovereign rights, and through the ve_hicle tion of manpower and effort. of the Department of Urban and RegiOnal Development, under the. cont:ol . o~ . the (3) The lack of a concise Federal policy Minister (Mr. Tom Uren), rs makmg msrdwus placing emphasis on local decision-making moves through fiscal means into State and local participation. sovereignty. I am pleased to see that local (4) The failure to formulate an government in Queensland is not falling f?r approach to urban affairs which recognises the ruthless game being played by Mr. Whit­ the sovereign rights of the States. lam and his clan. Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 425

Queenslanders on two occasions have In conclusion, I can only hope that the rebuffed the Whitlam A.L.P. centralist people of Australia will take note of what Government, and the support which that is happening to their country. On the one Government received in other States is hand, they can live in an Australia conducive certainly now on the decline. to the continuation of a life style to which they have become accustomed, in a country It would be my wish to see that every which enjoys the greatest degree of freedom Australian analyses what is happening in and democracy and a standard of life worthy and to Australia today. If we at State of our forbears who set out in the Constitu­ level were to comment on the Federal Gov­ tion a blueprint under which Australia can ernment's role in office we could indicate that prosper. On the other hand, they can fall for Mr. Whitlam and his team are pre­ the ploy of the Whitlam socialists in Can­ siding over a crumbling national economy. berra, backed by the Communists, who will But it is a situation of their own bring this country crumbling to i~s knees. creation, because when they took office the economy was in a very healthy state Mr. MELLOY (Nudgee) (12.36 p.m.): I indeed. We could say that the Whitlam wish .to echo the concluding remarks of the Government is presiding over the worst honourable member for Mt. Coot-tha. I industrial anarchy in recent history whereas hope that the people of Australia are aware it promised the people of Acstra!ia industrial of what is happening to their country. I harmony. We see rapidly escalating unem­ think the Whitlam Government is the greatest ployment whereas the Whitlam Government thing that has happened to Australia for promised the people full employment. We many, many years,. and I sincerely hope that see the Whitlam Government presiding at the public recognise what is presently taking a time when the morale within the fighting place in this nation. Despite the efforts of forces and our defence capability are at all Opposi1ion members in the Australian the lowest ebb in modern history and with Parliament, the Australian Government will the tendency worsening daily. We see the continue to enact legislation that will be Whitlam Government presiding at a time the salvation of this country economically when our allies are being abused, while and in every other way on both ~he home it embraces the Communist nations to the front and overseas. north already dedicated to the Australian Listening to the speeches of the Queens­ take-over. We see America's representative land Government members, one could easily in Australia embarrassed and abused by Mr. form the opinion that this Government has Whitlam's colleagues, and he is now fear­ abdicated its responsibility to Queensland. ful to take the action that he should in Also, and what is more dangerou~, I think, that regard. realising their own inadequacies, they are Our overseas balance of payments under adopting .the dog-in-the-manger attitude of, "If we are not capable of doing things, we are the Whitlam Government is being uselessly going to make very sure the Australian and callously whittled away, and in so doing Labor Government does not have the oppor­ the Whitlam Government is wilfully exploit­ tunity of doing them on a national basis." ing the Australian wage-earner by increasing the work opportunities for foreign workers I do not think that a Government ever in Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia and other indicates in the Governor's Opening Speech, whether intentionally or not, just v•hat it South-east Asian countries at the expense proposes for the ensuing 12 months. Usually of the Australian work-force. All this is Opening Speeches are barren. Either the the result of a stupid across-the-board 25 Government does not want to disclose its per cent tariff cut. intentions or it does not know what its Surely if the State Governments were to intentions are, but I do not think that the offer advice to Mr. Whitlam on these and Governor's Opening Speech on this occasion other matters upon which he has demon­ could have been less impressive. It does strated inefficiency, callousness and rank not indicate to the Parliament or 1he people stupidity, this State Government and other what the Government has in mind. This State Governments would be told to mind is borne out by the speeches of the mover their own business, as these matters were and seconder of the Address in Reply, as the prerogative of the Commonwealth Gov­ well as by those of Government members who ernment. I say to Mr. Whitlam to mind followed. his own business, to attend to the matters The contents of the Governor's Opening to which he has a constitutional right and Speech included some matters that are, I to keep his smelly, political, inefficient fingers think, open to debate. It has been indicated out of the sovereign rights of Queensland that the Government intends to continue and the other States of the Commonwealth, home construction for rental and ownership. and Australia will be much better off for which is a proposal of doubtful merit. I do it. Modern history will confirm that no not believe that the programme is substantial country outside the Communist bloc has enough to meet the current demand for been brought to its knees or had its national housing in Queensland. If the programme pride and standing sabotaged as quickly as continues at the same rate as it has in the Australia today under the centralist, socialist, past, there will still be 10,000 people on doctrinaire Whitlam Government in Canberra. the books of the Housing Commission. Our 426 Address in Reply (29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply inqumes in the past about the availability For the second example, I take the recent of rental accommodation have always elicited increase from 14c to 18c in the price of the reply that the Government builds homes, a bottle of milk. That is an outrageous sells some, and makes available for rental increase. If there was any increase in costs, those that are not sold. We all know what it would have been a gradual increase over happens. New homes are just not available the past 12 months, so there could have been for rental in the Brisbane area because they a gradual increase in the price of milk. are all sold. This is one of the problems con­ That would be bad enough. I want to illus­ fronting Opposition members of this Parlia­ trate something to prove my point. I have ment and, I presume, Government members, here three different-sized bottles of eucalyp­ although possibly Government members are tus, a product that very many people buy given some priority in applications for rental during the season when colds are prevalent. accommodation. As the size of the bottle decreased, the price The Governor's Opening Speech refers to paid for the eucalyptus went up-from 29c Queensland's health service. I go along with to 46c to SOc. One would think that the reference to both the community home care prices would only go up as the size of the programme and the community health ser­ bottle increased, but that is not the case. vices. They are essential and I hope that The large bottle cost 29c, the middle bottle the health services will be expanded to cost 46c, and the smallest bottle cost SOc. provide what is necessary for the people The bottle costing 29c was bought about in the outer areas of Brisbane as well as 3 months ago, and last week the larger of in provincial towns and cities. the other two cost 46c and the smaller SOc. That pricing is outrageous. I now want to refer to inflation. Every time the Government is put on the spot, or I quoted an instance of a man increasing found to be deficient on any point or pro­ his prices to such an extent that he recovered position, it refers to inflationary costs that 10 times the amount of a wage increase. This it cannot meet. I do not know the answer is something that it is impossible to legislate to inflation but, to a large extent, I believe against. It is the result of human greed and it is one of society's self-inflicted wounds. fear, and no Government can legislate against human emotions. But prices of articles These days it appears that everybody in could be controlled, and this is where the the community is trying to insure himself, by Premier should step in. His Government some means or other, against what he feels has the power to prevent exploitation of the is the worst that is to come. Workers are type that I have demonstrated. His Govern­ seeking higher wages while employers are ment, with other State Governments, has seeking lower production costs and higher denied the Australian Government the right income-tax exemptions, and putting up the to control prices. This power and respon­ prices of their goods. All of this is done sibility still rests with State Governments, so in an endeavour not so much to meet the what is the Premier going to do about these situation as it is, but to insure against what things? Apparently he is quite content to is feared to be the worst to come in the continue to ignore the cost of living in this future. This can only lead to snowballing State, and also the fact that he has power inflation. It is in this context that the Prime to introduce price control. Minister has been making a point in his appeal to all members of the community to When price control was first removed, I get down to the job of playing their part remember the Government of the day, which in containing inflation. was of the same political colour as the pres­ ent Government, saying that competition I shall give two examples of what is caus­ would even out prices. It was claimed that ing the inflationary spiral. Recently I was there would be a stabilising effect with the speaking to a friend who has his own busi­ ness. He employs a qualified tradesman who removal of price control. There is no doubt receives a full wage. Recently, the tradesman that there has been a stabilising effect, but received a salary increase of $10 a week. all the stabilisation has been up rather than My friend immediately added $4 to each of down. Until price control legislation is the 20 units he produces a week. Therefore, introduced, the present situation wiJ,J to cover the $10 a week wage increase granted continue. to his employee, he assured himself of an I propose to deal with health services dur­ additional $80 a week. ing this speech, but before doing so I want We were discussing inflation and he said, to make a few comments on what has been "You know, I am partly responsible for the happening recently in connection with the inflation that is occurring. But I am not office of Agent-General in London. The the only one. We talk about this down at Government has appointed to this position a the golf club. The same thing is happening Country Party member-over the heads, as in the cake business and the dry-cleaning I understand it, of two Liberal candidates. business. They are all doubling and trebling The previous holder of this office was a what they pay in wage increases. They member of the Liberal Party. The Country are covering themselves S or 10 times over Party has therefore again dominated the by increasing charges to meet the higher scene in the control and internal workings of costs they claim are confronting them." the coalition. Address in Reply [29 AuousT 1974] Address in Reply 427

I was rather surprised to see the honour­ Mr. MELLOY: It would be of benefit to able members for Aspley and Ashgrove them to visit some of the hospitals in this mentioned as contenders for this position. It State, particularly the country hospitals, as seems to me that the Liberals are very slow honourable members on this side of the to learn. I think they should have learnt Chamber have done. We are familiar with by now that, if a Liberal is to oppose a what is going on in the hospitals in Queens­ Country Party member for any position, he land; the same cannot be said of Govern­ should make sure that he has at least two or ment back-benchers. I suggest that they go three proxies in his pocket. Apparently they out of their own electorates and visit country are essential if a member of the Liberal hospitals and inspect the Princess Alexandra Party wants to defeat a Country Party Hospital and the Royal Brisbane Hospital member, or if a Country Party member wants and see what is going on there. I suggest to defeat a colleague. also that they talk not to the administrators or the superintendents but to the staff at This, of course, is not the only problem ground level. They will very soon be told in that the Liberals have on their plate in this no uncertain terms what is wrong with the coalition Government. With the intrusion hospital services of this State. of the Country Party into metropolitan seats, Any attacks made on the hospital services one does not need to be a Daniel to read by members of the Opposition are not attacks the writing on the wall for the Liberal Party. on the staff of the hospitals. We realise and I do not think there is any doubt that a appreciate the work that is being done by take-over move is on the way. Very soon people in all sections of the hospital system. the Liberals will find that they have been They are doing the best they can under a reduced to an urban conservative party, very poor system, and it is frustrating to more or less with the stature of the D.L.P. them to find that they are not able to do Eventually they will suffer the same fate as the job they are supposed to do. the D.L.P. and there will be a Country Party Government in Queensland, or as the party Over the past few years it must have is now calling itself-today, anyhow-a become obvious to the Government that National Party Government. something is seriously wrong with the hos­ pital system, because the criticism of it is That is one of the reasons why the Liberal coming from all sections of the community Party is so ·anxious to hold an early -nurses, doctors, members of Parliament, election. Its members can see the intrusion the Press, the university, economists, and of the Country Party into the metropolitan members of the general public. They want area and the progress that that party is mak­ to see an efficient service established in this ing in What is the Liberal Party's stronghold. State. They do not want to be refused The situation is becoming very serious for admission to hospitals; they do not want to them. be bundled out when they are at the con­ valescent stage. These are the things that are I now wish to comment on health services worrying ,people at present. There is no in Queensland. With the resignation of the doubt that, once people are admitted to his­ Minister for Health in the offing, I know pital, the treatment they receive is of the that the medical profession is rather intrigued highest standard. The problem is to get by what is going on down here, particularly into State hospitals and, having got in, to the movements of the honourable member stay there. for Ipswich. Apparently the honourable member is doing a bit of canvassing or log­ Basic to the problems of our hospitals is rolling in the medical world. He has been the existence of huge, unmanagable medical empires such as the Royal Brisbane and seen in conference with doctors at several Princess Alexandra Hospitals. With the hospitals, and I think he is setting the scene increasing traffic congestion in the cirty, the for a take-over in preference to his colleague fallacy of centralised hospital services is the honourable member for Wavell. I do becoming more and more apparent every not know whether the honourable member day. Staff are being frustrated because of for Ipswich has been long enough in the overwork and lack of co-ordination. Patients House to achieve ministerial rank, but I think are concerned about the work-load the staff he is very seriously involved in the ground­ have to carry. The endurance of the medical work at this stage. staff is being overtaxed. More ambulance As to the criticism of State hospitals that vehicles are becoming involved in traffic is being voiced by all sections of the com­ accidents every year. This is all attributable munity, I think it is time the Government to the fact that we have a huge, centralised realised that the people who are criticising hospital system. In order to properly cater the hospitals and the health services are doing for the public there must be more decen­ so because they are very concerned about the tralisation into the suburbs. Although a welfare of the patients and the services that large, centralised hospital is essential for are being dispensed to the community at the provision of sophisticated specialist ser­ large. vices, for run-of-the-mill trea:tmenrt we require hospitals in the outer suburbs of Brisbane. Mr. Jensen: Some honourable members The frustrations of the staff are being opposite should be working in the hospitals further aggravated by the unco-operative instead of wasting their time here. attitude of the Minister for Health. In May 428 Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply last year he criticised the staff of Queensland "Several senior staff members are under­ hospitals, saying that he was gravely con­ stood to have threatened to resign if the cerned at the failure of the staff to work proposals are implemented by the Hos­ as a team. He said, "As far as my observa­ pital Board." tions go, an essential element, an esprit de corps, is present among the top administra­ This has been confirmed by the superintend­ tors of the majority of our hospitals, but it is ent of the Royal Women's Hospital, who said absent in some places, and very important this morning that he is not applying for the places at that." What an indictment that was new position in the New Year. He said he of the ordinary worker in the hospitals! The will not work with any reduction in his Minister was prepared to criticise the staff in that manner for their lack of team-work, clinical responsibilities. I agree with him. which is so important in a hospital. He is appointed as a medical superintendent, not as an administrative superintendent. It It is evident from the reports of dissatis­ is understood also that senior doctors are faction and frustration among medical and nursing staffs that the lack of team-work fiercely resisting an attempt to redefine their deplored by the Minister-if there is such a duties and to restrict them to purely admin­ lack-stems from the fact that very little istrative matters without any direct clinical effort is made to understand the difficulties responsibility. This was reported in "The and frustrations confronting the staff. Courier-Mail" of 20 July this year, which While we appreciate the need for some went on to say- inquiry into what is going on-indeed, we "Doctors employed at the hospital (that would favour a full, open inquiry into the hospital situation in this State-the institu­ is Royal Brisbane Hospital) confirmed that tion of white-washing inquiries, inquisitions relations between senior staffers and the and witch-hunts are not likely to inspire board had become 'very strained and confidence in the staff of our hospitals. Every tense' over the planned change in their time there is intense criticism of something, official duties. we have a one-day inquiry or something of that nature. Following that another white­ "They said certain management altera­ washing report is submitted, or it is pigeon­ tions recommended by the Scott Report holed and nobody knows anything about it. were unacceptable to the staffers, who The Minister is alienating the good will of were highly trained medically and were the top administrative staff, with which he refusing to become totally 'desk bound'." earlier expressed satisfaction, by the introduc­ tion of the inquisitorial team of Scott and Co. This is understandable because they have per­ This is one of the tragedies of our hospital formed an expert job as medical superin­ administration. In fact, it is one of the tendents and it is a retrograde step to alter tragedies of this Government thM it has had their set-up. In any case, with the shortage to resort to that type of thing in trying to of doctors, their services are still required in solve the problem of hospital deficiencies. a clinical capacity at the hospital. We just One has only to go to the grass roots of the cannot afford to lose the services of highly hospital staff to really know what the trained medical men like superintendents of deficiencies are, and how they are brought hospitals. about. [Sitting suspended from I to 2.15 p.m.] Dr. Scott-Young: If he is no good he Mr. MELWY: Before lunch I was speak­ could quite easily be lost. ing about the attitude of the Minister to the hospital situation and in particular a:bout his Mr. MELLOY: I cannot hear the honour­ criticism of the lack of team work among able member. staff, and that sort of thing. His latest onslaught is on the senior medical staff and Mr. R. E. Moore: Don't you want to hear this has brought about a situation of concern a sensible interjection? and confusion among senior medical men chiefly as a result of the recommendations Mr. MELLOY: The honourable member of Scott & Co. as to administrative duties to for Townsville, as a doctor, should be in be performed by those senior medical officers. sympathy with his colleagues in this regard. Apparently one super senior medical officer The article goes on to say- is to be appointed and probably the medical superintendents of the various hospitals will "The doctors said that senior medical be no more than administrative officers. staff have not been consulted about the Doctors are in a state of high concern re-defining of duties or alterations to the over this move and to demonstrate it I operation of hospitals. quote the following from "The Courier•Mail" "The management consultants have of 20 July this year- badly lowered morale. "Senior medical officers at Royal Bris­ bane Hospital complex are in revolt over "One doctor said: 'Most of the senior proposals to curb their medical roles and staff are involved in this and are consid­ reduce their authority. ering leaving'." Address in Reply [29 AuousT 1974] Address in Reply 429

These are not laymen's comments or disorder. It is only their dedication that criticism; they are statements by the doctors enables them to maintain adequate care and involved in the new move envisaged by treatment of patients. Nurses who are brought Scott & Co. Further on the article says- to Queensland from other countries will not "Another doctor said: 'The issue is tolerate these conditions, and I am sure extremely sensitive and complex and that they will soon migrate to other States. everyone here is concerned about it. This is already happening with many nurses "There are problems, and the relation­ who are trained in Queensland. ship between the senior staff and the board Last year the Treasurer, who was aware have deteriorated badly during the last few of the deficiencies in the operating theatres, weeks." came into this matter. In June of last year The report goes on to say- he told us that he would fly anaesthetists "The hospital board Chairman, Mr. from other countries to Queensland. He Wotley, said last night he was not aware made that statement at a time of a grave of any concern among staff at proposed shortage of anaesthetists and of lengthy delays management changes." of up to six months in operations. However, that was the last we heard of his plan; It is extraordinary that the chairman of nothing has eventuated. the board should be unaware of what is going on among the medical staff. Every­ At about the time of the anaesthetists' one else seems to know about it. Yesterday blue, the Minister conducted a snap one-day the Minister made it quite plain that he investigation into the complaints made by is aware of the concern that has been Dr. Lee on staff shortages. The result was expressed, and he gave that as the reason to be expected; it was a complete whitewash, for endorsing the actions of W. D. Scott and the report was pigeon-holed as other & Co. There is a great disparity between previous reports on our hospitals had been. the statements made by the Minister and In any case, what would a one-day investiga­ the chairman of the hospital board. tion do about the problems being experienced at Royal Brisbane Hospital? Mr. Wotley said also that the role of In June of last year the Acting Minister superintendents in future would be essentially for Health-I think it was Mr. Campbell­ administrative. This is the crux of the prob­ stated that an immediate inquiry would be lem. He said, "We will be placing more held into the claim by a group of doctors emphasis on delegating authority throughout that 40,000 reports on patients at Royal the hospital." Discontent and uncertainty Brisbane Hospital had not been filed. One are spreading among the senior medical staff. could well imagine the disorder caused by Although the situation is nearly chaotic, 40,000 reports floating round the hospital apparently the Minister will not change his somewhere, not filed, not under anybody's attitude; he will not take any notice of what control and in most cases not available to the doctors say. the hospital. Last year while the House This crisis has had a serious effect on was in session I dealt very fully with the our medical services. Only last year the matter of these missing reports, but nothing Royal Brisbane Hospital was forced to reduce came from the inquiry foreshadowed by the its operating sessions by 15 per cent as the Acting Minister for Health. It is another result of the shortage of anaesthetists and problem that has just been pigeon-holed and nurses. If it is the Minister's wish to con­ left to solve itself, if possible. tinue to provide adequate medical services he must cease his harassment of the staff. In May of this year, Dr. A. C. Dugdale of It is impossible for them, dedicated as they the Queensland University said that Queens­ are, to do their jobs to the best of their land hospitals provided merdy a break-down ability if they are subject to harassment by service and were not reaching the roots of the Minister. health problems. I thoroughly agree. We do not have the staff, the time or the room In May last year the State president of to investigate fully and treat complaints the A.M.A. claimed that patients who suf­ brought to the hospitals. As Dr. Dugdale fered severe pain were forced to wait as said, our hospitals are only service stations. long as three months for operations, and he A patient going to a hospital with a com­ contended that this situation had arisen as plaint is much like a motor-car being taken the result of the staffing crisis. But appar­ to a service station for a superficial examina­ ently the Government is not aware of the tion every now and then. That is not good crisis; it simply does not know what is going enough for our hospitals. Over the years we on and has engaged this inquisitorial team have been inclined-and rightfully so-to to carry out a witch-hunt and to do some boast about our hospital services. Today we whitewashing in the hospitals. do not have the services that we had 10, 15 As to the shortage of nurses, there is or, more particularly, 20 years ago, when the little point in the Minister's embarking on Australian Labor Party was in control of crusades to obtain additional medical staff, Queensland's hospital service. even from Canada, if. he cannot exercise Earlier this year there was the tragic judicious control over the present staff. closure of two wards at Royal Brisbane Hos­ Apparently his control has been lost, with pital because of a shortage of nurses. Since the result that the staff are in a state of then the Minister has appealed for volunteers lS 430 Address in Reply (29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply to assist in nursing duties at the Princess "A board meeting decided to close two Alexandra and Royal Brisbane Hospitals. I of the three wings at the 43-bed Mitchell have been told ,that these volunteers are Hospital. Outpatients' service hours have administering drugs in the wards in the been restricted. absence of qualified nurses. That cannot "A State Health Department spokesman be allowed to continue. It is a dangerous said last night that most western Queens­ practice, and one that should be stopped land hospitals were short of staff, but the­ forthwith. In most cases these volunteers department \,as ensuring that doctors con­ are not trained nurses and they should not tinued to can regularly at all towns." be given the responsibility of administering drugs to patients. However, I am told that That is not good enough if the full hospital that is taking place in the hospitals. It facilities are available. must stop. The report continues- At the time of the closure of these wards "The Roma board spokesman said the the board's chairman, Mr. Wotley, said that three hospitals could be closed for inpatient patient admissions would be restricted and care unless the staff situation improved." some delays in surgery would result. More The medical staff are becoming more restive recently it has been suggested that two more every day in view of the existing staff situ­ wards will close. Fewer wards mean fewer ation, which is explosive. Scott and Co. beds, as reported in "The Courier-Mail" a few spoke to the hospital staff at the Princess weeks ago. On 4 July this year that paper Alexandra Hospital at the beginning of this reported: month and the report received a hostile "Senior medical staff at Royal Brisbane reception. The -medical superintendent Hospital have warned that a crisis is expressed his hostility to the proposed recom­ approaching because of the diminishing mendation on administrative and medical number of beds available for emergency control. The meeting carried a unanimous patients. resolution that one person should be the "Doctors have expressed concern in dis­ chief executive on site and that this person cussions with hospital administrators that should be the medical superintendent. the hospital would soon have a 100 per An article in today's '·Courier-Mail" cent occupancy rate."- further emphasises the doctors' concern. It which is undesirable at any time because of reads- an absence of emergency beds. The report "The Australian Medical Association continued: Queensland president (Doctor R. M. "Hospital medical staff have been asked O'Shea) said yesterday that doctors at the to review their policies on admission and three hospitals VI/ere concerned that super­ discharge". intendents would not have at least some As I pointed out, there is no guarantee that clinical responsibility." once a patient is admitted, he will remain (Time expired.) until his illness has cleared. The medical staff have been asked to review their policy Mr. HARTWIG (Callide) (2.32 p.m.): I on admission and discharge in an attempt to pledge my loyalty and that of the electors ease the situation caused by the shortage of of Callide to Her Most Gracious Majesty beds. The report continued: Queen Elizabeth. "Mr. Wotley said a margin for emer­ I also take this opportunity to congratulate gencies could be maintained by cutting His Excellency Sir Colin Hannah on his fine down on admissions for non-urgent Speech in opening the Third Session of the surgery." Fortieth Parliament. I also congratulate him That is a most undesirable situation. on the great interest and dedication he has applied to his worthy position of Governor In the main, Mr. Speaker, I have been of Queensland by acquainting himself with dealing with the Brisbane metropolitan hos­ the problems of the great State and by pitals. What is the situation with our hos­ makin2' extensive tours of its far-flung areas. pitals in the country? In fact, it is chaotic I rec;ll His Excellency's recent visit to and that is dangerous. The demand on Biloela to open an R.S.L. conference and medical services in the country is not being undertake a conducted tour of mining enter­ filled. prises in the Banana Shire. It was much On 21 June 1974, "The Courier-Mail" appreciated by Biloela residents. Surely t~is reported- is indicative of His Excellency's keen desire "A shortage of nurses has curtailed to meet the people of Queensland in their medical services at three south-west working clothes, as it were. Queensland hospitals and could close them As much has happened over recent months within a month. in government, I feel that at this time it "The Roma Hospital Board said yester­ would be appropriate for me to pay tribute day that its hospitals at Mitchell, Surat to our fine Premier, the Honourable Job. and Injune were facing a staffing crisis. Bjelke-Petersen. History will record that "Staff was refusing to handle any further the Premier of Queensland has been one of maternity cases. the outstanding statesmen that this country Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 431

has produced. He stands high on the pedestal I am afraid that a halt has now been of great Queenslanders. The Premier, along called to this development, and industrial with his wonderful Cabinet, has continued growth in Queensland and all the other States to guide and govern the affairs of this State is being slowly but surely strangled by the in a free democratic manner. The people present Federal Government's handling of of Queensland have very much appreciated the financial affairs of this once-great nation. the wonderful stand taken by our Premier Mr. Campbell: You can say that again! against the socialistic Whitlam charade in Canberra. As much as Opposition members Mr. HARTWIG: I will say it again-Aus­ have tried unsuccessfully to belittle him on tralia is being slowly but surely strangled by hundreds of occasions, it is time that we, the present Federal Government's handling as everyday Queenslanders, paid tribute to of the financial affairs of this once-great this great Queenslander. nation. Therein lies a tale. Industry after Because of the great image of our Premier industry has gone flat, as it were, and and his ideologies, because of the increased expansion has been put aside until the pre~ vote for the National Party and Liberal Party sent Government in Canberra is removed against socialist A.L.P. candidates, and and once again there is a progressive attitu~e because Labor's pin-up boy, Alderman Clem by all concerned in the development of thrs Jones, was once again donkey-licked, there nation. naturally was panic in the A.L.P. camp. In place of the confidence and security to Naturally, A.L.P. members had to find a which this nation was accustomed under pre­ scapego:,t. They sent poor old Jack Houston vious Federal Governments, there is now to Adelaide, and whilst he was out of the inflation at a level that presents the utmost State his deputy got busy and embarked upon danger. There is within the community a a "Get rid of Jack" campaign. A hurried growing feeling of insecuri~y ~nd. lack . of meeting of top echelon A.L.P. members confidence in the future, whrch rs mcreasmg followed, and, after some dicey lobbying, the alarmingly, and a real element of fear and axe fell on the then Leader of the Opposi­ frustration. This has been brought about by tion. Even though he represents a party a Federal Government that bases its policies with which we on this side of the House do on socialism. not see eye to eye, he was a leader for whom I had some liking and admiration. I regret to say that the mood of more and more people is becoming ominously aggres­ Now there is a new Leader of the Opposi­ sive. The present state of affairs concerns tion, and that is surely good news for the thousands of decent, law-abiding citizens who Government. To be a great and true leader, have been absolutely frustrated by negative a man must have some outstanding qualities. strikes instigated by Communist union leaders In my opinion, the present Leader of the and backed by honourable members opposite Opposition cannot hold a candle to his pre­ and by Hawke, Carmichael and Mundey. decessor. During my time in this House, he Their actions have placed in jeopardy the has been ordered to withdraw from the future of thousands of housewives and child­ Chamber, and I have discovered from perus­ ren in this great country. ing "Hansard" that he has been ordered to withdraw on several earlier occasions. He Mr. Houghton: Don't you think they also stoops to the old Labor tactic of making should stand uo and be counted now, if they personal attacks. I am sure that the people want to survi,;e? of Queensland will have no trouble in sum­ Mr. HAR'fWIG: I agree. Whitlam's high­ ming up the qualities of the Premier and comparing them with those of the new Leader handed action in allowing interest rates to of the Opposition at the forthcoming election. soar to in excess of 12 per cent surely is an admission of bungled administration. Of course, the poor record of Whitlam Honourable members will recall the great and company in Canberra has improved the promises made by Whitlam prior to 1972, record of the National and Liberal Parties and I shall mention only a few of them. in Queensland. The Queensland Government He was going to do so much for the young has given this State the soundest economy, people of Australia. He promised them land; and the most stable government, of any State he promised long-term loans to enable young in Australia. Its continuing decentralisation couples to acquire a home at low-interest policies have provided steady growth in rates. That was his prime promise. He industry and other forms of private enter­ also requested "a fair go for us all". Even prise. Cities such as Townsville, Mt. Isa, honourable members opposite are now Rockhampton, Mackay, Toowoomba, Bunda­ admitting that Whitlam has had a pretty berg, Cairns and Maryborough are all show­ fair go, and we can see the disastrous ing considerable increases in population and results-! stress "disastrous results"-that industrial growth. I might also include have been achieved by men who are not fit Biloela and Y eppoon, in my electorate, and to govern a nation such as Australia. neighbouring country towns. Yeppoon, for example, has shown a natural growth rate What does one see in Australia today? of 6 per cent. This growth is indicative The highest interest rates in the history of the policies that the Government has of the nation. Whitlam was going to control implemented over the last 15 or 16 years. inflation and reduce interest rates. In fact, 432 Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply he was going to really fix the economic Mr. HARTWIG: I agree that the price of problems of the country. I will not go any meat is high. It is a pity it is not a bit further than that. higher. Let me deal now with fuel and oil. When The loss of the T.B. compensation scheme I was first elected to this Assembly, Oppos­ has been a blow to people in country areas ition members were calling for an inquiry where we have been trying to eradicate the into oil companies on the ground that they T.B. scourge in beef herds. were making too much profit. Since Mr. Let us look at another important segment Whitlam has been in office in Canberra of Federal administration. there has been complete silence from hon­ ourable members opposite. They have seen Mr. Wright: This is a State Parliament. the price of petrol increase by as much as 10 to 12c a gallon to the working people Mr. HARTWIG: Yes, but this concerns whom they claim to represent, yet they have the people who put the honourable member not raised one word of protest. In other and myself here. wc:rds, honourable members opposite are Mr. Wright interjected. qmte happy to allow Mr. Whitlam and his socialist advisers to penalise the people who Mr. HARTWIG: The honourable member put them into Parliament and let them pay would be surprised at what I know. I know for the mistakes made by the Government enough about him, for a start. in Canberra. They have not the courage to rise in this Chamber and say, "Mr. Mr. Wright: Will you say it publicly? Whitlam, you are not doing the right thing by the citizens of ,this State and this nation." Mr. HARTWIG: Yes, if the honourable member pushes me. I have not heard one word of protest from honourable members opposite against I refer now to post and telegraph services. the. remov~l of the petrol subsidy, which will It now takes six days for a letter from Bris­ senously mconvenience people in western bane to be delivered in Biloela, a distance areas of the State. In fact, it will not only of about 380 miles. That is what is hap­ inconvenience them; it will also financially pening under the administration of Mr. embarrass them, because many people have Whitlam and his advisers. It is an insult to drive 50 or 100 miles to the nearest to our mentality to expect us to put up with country town. The Federal Government that sort of service. In my hey day I was believes that, by increasing the price of pretty good on a push-bike. In those days I petrol and removing the subsidy, it can use could have ridden a push-bike from Brisbane t?e few million dollars saved to employ the to Biloela in a shorter time than it now takes likes of Grassby and send him on a world a letter to get there by mail. Such is the tour: wasting money as if it is going out of poor service that is being offered to the fash10n. The Federal Government believes public. It seems that the Federal Govern­ that its easiest way of getting money is to ment has forgotten the people and their take it from people who offer the least requirements. resistance. Unfortunately they are those The introduction in the postal service of pers'?ns who are . c;ngaged in primary pro­ ductiOn and restdmg outside the thickly the five-day week has resulted in complete populated areas of the State. chaos. A person at Emu Park was going to be charged $360 for the installation of a Inflation is running at the highest rate telephone, even though the service was con­ ever. We have seen virtually the end of nected to his next-door neighbour. When I the dairying industry. That has been brought took the matter up, it was discovered that a about by Senator Wriedt's announcement mistake had been made by the computer, about the; ph~sing. out of the dairy subsidy. and he was required to pay only $180. The substdy IS bemg phased out at a time when the price of butter is at its lowest ebb Mr. K. J. Hooper: Brilliant representation. for over 30 years. Butter can be sold over­ Mr. HARTWIG: That was good repre­ seas. My visit to Japan indicated to me that sentation. I saved him $180, anyway. quart.er-pound packs would be readily sa:le­ able m that country if sufficient supplies were The whole attitude of the Federal Gov­ available. The Commonwealth Government ernment just makes me sick. Its constant withdraws primary producers' subsidies to hatred of primary producers and its attitude finance its socialist policies for other towards them are now beginning to have industries. repercussions closer to home. I refer partic­ ularly to the redundancy that is beginning to Mr. Wright: You don't know what you're show up in employment generally. Many talking about. You should go back to industries depend more on primary products grazing. than Mr. Whitlam realises. Now the Gov­ ernment is panicking and is trying to come up Mr. HARTWIG: Look who is talking! with some scheme that will stop galloping One can't be a butcher and a politician, too. unemployment. But I am afraid it is too late; the gate is being closed after the horse has An Opposition Member interjected. escaped. It is about time that Mr. Whitlam, Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 433

Mr. Wriedt and company realised the value What has happened to its trade? Why is to the nation of the work of the man on your Federal Government going to Peking, the land. the Soviet Union and North Vietnam?" And they are no more concerned about An Opposition Member interjected. the worker, the housewife and the pensioner. Speaking about pensioners-only two weeks Mr. HARTWIG: If the honourable mem­ ago I received a letter from an aged pen­ ber lived over there and were a Com­ sioner couple at Biloela in my electorate, munist, he would be shot. In Thailand the requesting my assistance because the Social Communists come out of the scrub, shoot Services Department in Canberra had reduced people, and then run for cover. In fact their fortnightly pension from $90 to $18 on the very morning that we left Kuala as from 8 August. Lumpur the chief of police in Malaysia was shot down by Communist terrorists only Mr. Houghton: On what grounds? two blocks from our hotel. Mr. HARTWIG: The husband is 73 years Let us look at the frightening rate at of age and has a weak heart. His wife, which Mr. Whitlam has expanded the already who is also on the pension, has raised bloated Commonwealth Public Service. Prior seven children and the couple have never to 1972 the Liberal-Country Party Govern­ asked the State or the Commonwealth for ment set an annual growth rate of 3 per cent one cent in assistance. They have a bank on the Commonwealth Public Service. How­ balance of $57.20. They sent me a photo­ ever, under the Labor Government the rate stat copy of their account book. Their has accelerated alarmingly. Between June pension was reduced because the poor old and December 1973 the Commonwealth Pub­ lady took a job for a week or two and lic Service grew at an annual rate of 10 the department's spies found out that she oer cent. The total bill for administrative had earned in excess of $40 a week. The ~alaries sky-rocketed from $429,000,000 in result was that both the husband and wife 1970-71 to $675,000,000 in 1973-74-an were stripped of their pension. When I increase of almost 60 per cent. made representations on their behalf I was Mr. Houghton: What about jobs for the advised by the department, if Mrs. Smith­ boys? that is not her correct name-stopped working, their pension would be reinstated. Mr. HARTWIG: Yes, look at the salaries That is the policy of the Commonwealth some of the boys are getting. The annual Government today-stop working. People salary of a second-division public servant are being encouraged to stop working, with on the lowest grade is $17,300; the highest­ the result that productivity is low and we grade public servant-one of Cameron's fat are in the grip of inflation which is amongst cats-receives an annual salary of $26,225. the worst in the world. The blame can be laid entirely at the feet of the bungling Mr. Frawley: AI Grassby. Government in Canberra. Mr. HARTWIG: Mr. Whitlam has Mr. Whitlam has championed the cause employed this man, who was sacked by the of pensioners. He increased their pension people, and paid him a salary of more than by $5 a week, but before they could reach $26,000 a year. He also employed a friend the corner shop excessive wage demands of his at a salary of $25,000. He has a and increased prices had more than whittled couple of secretaries, too, and I will touch away the increase of a few dollars a week. on that matter in a moment. Further, many of these poor old pensioners Mr. K. J. Hooper: What about Kevin are now being asked to complete income tax Cairns? returns. Many of them have not done so for years and I would say it could Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER (l\1r. Lickiss): bring about their early demise. I have Order! I warn the honourable member for seen old people become excited because they Archerfield that persistent interjections will had to vote, so one can imagine the effect not be tolerated. on them of having to fill in an income tax return, and I refer particularly to those who Mr. HARTWIG: I was wondering when have not the money to pay an accountant. you were going to call him to order, Mr. This is Whitlam-the great champion of the Deputy Speaker. pensioners, the great man who said, "I am Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! The here to assist the workers!" I say here and now that he could not care less about Chair will control the proceedings in the the working class. He and his cohorts are Chamber. interested only in the Communist system. Mr. HARTWIG: It is questionable whether Opposition Members interjected. suflkient people with the necessary quali­ fications, experience and personal talent to Mr. HARTWJG: They don't like to hear justify such salaries are available to meet it. expansion of this magnitude. During my visit to Thailand and Malaysia Mr. Marginson: Who wrote that for you? I was asked by Government Ministers, "What has happened to Australia's external policies? Mr. HARTWIG: I wrote it myself. 434 Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply

Mr. DEPUTY SPEAKER: Order! My I would now like to touch on a few items warning to the honourable member for of interest relating to my own electorate. Archerfield is al~o given to the honourable The approval by the Minister for Health member for Wolston. and the Treasurer for plans to be drawn up for a new 35-bed hospital at Yeppoon is Mr. HARTWIG: The Whit!am Govern­ greatly appreciated by all and sundry on ment has also engaged in the practice of the Capricorn coast. The hospital is much appointing advisers from outside the Public needed, and I believe that the Y eppoon Service. For example, ministerial assistants Hospital was shifted from Cawarral almost come in various guises, from Press secre­ 100 years ago. I hope that tenders will soon taries who earn more than $12,500 a year be called to enable Matron Moore and her wonderful staff to do justice to the amount to private secretaries on $16,43 3 a year. of work they are called upon to do. In 1973 a member of the Prime Minister's The construction of 3 · 7 miles of main staff-incidentally he has a private road between Keppel Sands and Rockhamp­ staff of 14-received the sum of $8,3 86 in ton is nearing completion and will provide overtime payments. That is more than a residents at Keppel Sands with a fully sealed lot of Queensland's primary producers are road to Rockhampton. That will do much earning at present. A huge oversized bureau­ for that small centre of Keppel Sands, and cracy has serious implications for both the I am sure it will be appreciated as well by taxpayers and the economy. It has even those people from the hinterland who travel more serious implications for democracy. For to the coast every week-end. the taxpayers the consequences are obvious The completion of a new hospital at enough-the salary of every additional mem­ Biloela is appreciated by all residents of the ber of the staff of the Government must region. It cost in excess of $600,000 and be paid out of the taxpayers' pockets. was opened by the Treasurer. The widespread empire-building in Gov­ Mr. Houghton: It was only through your ernment departments is totally different from personal representations that that was private enterprise. For example, a depart­ obtained. mental head in private business must justify any increase to his staff, and costs exert a Mr. HARTWIG: Certainly. Though I sobering influence on private enterprise. feel that many participated in the event, and However, consider a public utility such as the modern hospital will provide years of the post office, which can always raise benefit to the community. However, I draw charges to compensate for the inefficiency the attention of the Minister for Health to that I referred to earlier or the extravagant the fact that a new male ward is urgently expenditure that, if made by private enter­ required for the Biloela Hospital. prise, would incur the wrath of thousands. I am pleased to see the Minister for However, when it is made by a Govern­ Works and Housing in the Chamber. He ment enterprise it goes largely unchallenged. has assisted me greatly by the provision of All these matters of uncertainty are rooted many Housing Commission homes in Biloela in_ the fact that Australia is facing a great to alleviate the housing problem created by historic choice about its future. Confronted the activity, progress and prosperity of that with two roads (and, I stress, two roads fine country town. I remind him that more running in different directions) Australians accommodation is required for teachers. are justified in feeling that, once they go a certain distance along one of them, it My thanks go to the Minister for Conser­ might be impossible to turn back. vation for the hundreds of thousands of dol­ lars spent on the construction of a very nice Mr. Bromley: Who wrote that for you­ boat harbour at Rosslyn Bay. We still need Jeff Wall, who is taking Keith Livingstone's a jetty at Great Keppel Island, and the place? Livingstone Shire and the Government are negotiating in this matter. The construction Mr. HARTWIG: I wrote it myself. The of a pre-school centre and rooms for remedial honourable member would not be capable of teaching at Biloela are highly valued by all writing anything like this. people in the Banana Shire. The decision will rest between a society As we run through the list of these new in which government occupies a position of buildings and extensions, I wonder how many dominance with personal feelings counting of us ever stop to consider how much this for little and a society in which the individual State Government has assisted throughout is largely free to determine his own destiny Queensland. We should be very grateful to and work out his life in his own way. Might the Minister for Education and the Minister I ask to what extent we as Australians are for Works and Housing for making so many prepared to concede to the Government the improvements to our schools and providing right to intervene in our business affairs, to pre-schools, etc. shape the pattern of our living and to make The extensions to many schools throughout decisions on our behalf? Very soon Austral­ the Callide electorate have been extensive. ians will be compelled to make one of the The school at Keppel Sands and the State climactic decisions of our history. primary and high schools at Biloela and Address in Reply 29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 435

Y eppoon are indicative of the development reducing the Reserve Bank deposit require­ and progress in my electorate, for which I ment from 25 per cent to 5 per cent. Such am grateful to all departmental officers. investment adds to employment opportunities Whilst appreciating the years of service for people, and people are important. given to the Government by Sir Alan Fletcher At Butterworth, we were told that Mr. -I understand he intends to retire at the Whitlam was withdrawing the two squadrons forthcoming election-! must draw attention of Mirage fighters from the Asian sector. At to the anomalies that exist in payments to Chainat, 125 miles north of Bangkok, under school-bus operators. the Australian-Thailand Colombo Plan pro­ ject, which has functioned very well, Aus­ Mr. Jensen interjected. tralian entomologists and agronomists are Mr. HARTWIG: We have the largest doing a very fine job in advising the Thai pineapple industry in Central Queensland. people in farming methods. Mr. Whitlam is now withdrawing these people and cutting Many school-bus operators find a great off Australia's Colombo Plan aid to Thailand. difference between operating on a sealed What do we see in place of Australian aid? highway or road and operating on a dirt or The Taiwanese, the Dutch, and people from gravel track. Nobody could deny that the other nations are entering these countries to operator of a school-bus service over rough, assist them by imparting technical know-how unsealed roads has to carry greater expendi­ in farming. ture and maintenance costs than the operator who drives on a sealed road. I ask the ln Japan we saw high industrialisation, Minister to have a look at this matter. and we visited many factories. Ito Ham was one of interest. It is one of the largest The recent, miserable Commonwealth processors of smallgoods in Japan, and it allowance to Queensland for arterial roads employs over 6,000 people. leaves much to be desired. The amount has been reduced from something like $13,000,000 (Time expired.) this year and will be down to a little over Mr. CASEY (Mackay) (3.13 p.m.): The $8,900,000 by 1976-77. This might mean first thing that I should like to do in this that certain arterial roads of great import­ debate is to express the loyalty of the people ance, such as the missing links between of the Mackay electorate to His Excellency Gladstone and Biloela and between Monto the Governor, Sir Coiin Hannah, and to con­ and Thangool, as well as the upgrading of vey our best wishes to him for the balance the Yeppoon-Rockhampton road, will have of his term of office. We hope that in the to wait. It will be very serious if the work near future we will again see him on a visit on these roads has to be put back. I appeal to our area. to the Minister to do everything in his power to see that they are given the high priority This House is, of course, a unique place, they deserve so that improvements can be and strange things sometimes happen here. made to them as quickly as possible. I think one of the things that help members along very considerably when they first come Let me comment quickly on a proposal here is the attitude of the staff, and the put forward by the Lucerne Growers' Co­ assistance that they receive from them. This operative in the Callide valley. It requested year, as usual, ma.'1y old faces are missing the Treasurer to guarantee a bank loan so in the ranks of House staff. that growers could conserve lucerne in a good season. The idea has much to com­ In the first place I place on record my mend it. Unfortunately, owing to some prob­ appreciation of the services rendered by Mr. lems in the drawing up of the document, the Stan Rohl, the former Chief Reporter of Treasurer was unable to back the enterprise. the "Hansard" staff who has just retired. I appeal to the Treasurer to investigate the I pay tribute to his 12 years of service as possibility of introducing a scheme under Chief Reporter, and also the 30-odd years which lucerne-growers who grow and con­ of service that he gave to the State of serve fodder in good seasons in order to Queensland on the "Hansard" staff. We all remain in production receive some payment know that over the last three or four years for the hay that they put in their sheds. Stan's health was not the best, and some of his condition could possibly be attributed to I should now like to comment briefly on the lengthy hours that he worked and the my overseas trip. We visited many countries. devotion to duty that he displayed. However, I observed industrial development at Malacca through all of this time Stan's friendliness and Penang, where foreign investment was and his remarkable, dry sense of humour creating quite a lot of interest. always came through, and it was a pleasure Mr. WrigM: Did you go to any night-clubs? to talk to him. I found it indeed a pleasure to hear him Mr. HARTWIG: That is what the hon­ spin the great tales he used to tell of his ourable member for Rockhampton would do experiences when, as a young reporter, he if he went there. followed court sittings throughout the length We would do well to take a leaf out of and breadth of Queensland. I think that one the Malaysians' book. I am pleased to see of his proudest moments must have been that the Federal Government has now appre­ when his own son came to serve under him ciated the value of foreign investment by on his staff. We welcome his son to the 436 Address in Reply [29 AuGusT 1974] Address in Reply staff, and we know that he, with all the other time when all public representatives must members of the "Hansard" staff, will carry show a willingness to do what they believe out his duties with the same dedication and is in the best interests of the majority of their devotion that his father displayed. We wish fellow men. Unfortunately, many of those now Stan all the very best in his retirement. playing leading roles in the community are not Jim Swan, who spent 12 or more years doing that, and I am referring not only to par­ on the messenger staff of the House, retired liamentary leaders but also to leaders at all during the year, and Ron Clyne, who was levels in various organisations outside Par­ the chief cleaner of the House for over 12 liament. I believe that many of them have years, also retired. I would be remiss, too, lost touch with the wishes and the feelings of if I did not take the opportunity offered by the ordinary person in the community. the Address-in-Reply debate to mention the Recently there has been a polarisation in work of the late Graham Furness, who unfor­ Australia of one political party against another tunately passed away earlier in the year. He another political party, of country against was a very fine man, and he certainly went city, of youth against parents. Because of out of his way to assist members wherever that, and because of pressures brought to possible. bear upon them by sectional interests, many of the leaders, I think, have lost touch with The support and assistance that members the average Australian. of this Assembly receive from the staff make their task very much easier. Irrespective of Who is the average Australian? What their politics, all honourable members receive does he or she want? First and foremost, of similar treatment from the staff. course, the average Australian is a wage­ earner; thus he is responsible to someone else I should like to mention particularly one who provides an opportunity for his employ­ other familiar face that is about to disappear ment. He is married and wishes to enjoy from this Chamber. Jim Erskine, who repre­ the companionship of the woman he has sents the country news services, has been in chosen to be his wife. He wants to share the Press gallery for well over 20 years. He his life with her, and wants her to bear his completes his service here this week and children. He wants to set up his own home moves on to another job. For more than for his own family, and to care for, feed and 20 years he has rendered sterling service to clothe them. He wants his children to the readers of many country newspapers, and receive the best opportunities in education. on behalf of all members representing coun­ Educational opportunities probably were try electorates, I thank Jim, through you, Mr. denied him. He is a Christian and wants Deputy Speaker, for the unbiased way in to enjoy the basic freedom of the right to which he passed on the news from this worship. He cares for his fellow man and, House. in particular, he cares for the sick, the aged In this period, of course, he has learnt and the infirm in the community. a tremendous amount about the State of Basically he is interested in his job, Queensland, and he displays an amazingly and he is prepared to do a fair day's good knowledge of the issues affecting various work. Usually he is a member of a union localities, some of which have extended over or a professional association. All he wants many years. Because of that, Jim has been is the opportunity to earn enough to pro­ able to report authentically on the comments vide for his family and be able to afford of members in this Chamber. On my own an occasional luxury-not for himself but behalf, and particularly on behalf of the for his family. He likes to be able to readers of the Mackay "Daily Mercury", I afford an occasional beer and to smoke. say to Jim, "Thank you very much. We He likes to have a bet on the races or wish you well at your new task." a ticket in a raffle. He wants to have some Mr. Jensen: He has beaten us at cricket, leisure-time and to be able to take his too. family for an occasional holiday. He likes to know that, if sickness strikes him or his Mr. CASEY: He certainly has. I hope family. the best of medical care the com­ that the padiamentary Press staff will be able munity can provide will be aYailable. to call on his services again this year; they The average Australian wants to be able will most assuredly need them. to use the fruits of man's ingenuity and The Governor's Opening Speech sets out technology. He wants to have at his disposal the Government's intentions for the coming the telephone, electricity, all the modern year, and the Address-in-Reply debate gives electrical gadgets and a motor-car. Basically one an opportunity of reviewing the activi­ he loves his country, and he is intensely ties of the Government and comparing them proud of his country's achievements. He with its future programme, and also of has confidence in those whom he elects to ascertaining what is happening in this State run his nation, his State and his own local and, indeed, in the nation. authority, and even the parents and citizens' I think one can rightly say that the present association or other organisations in the situation must be one of the most serious community of which he is a member. in Queensland's and Australia's history; cer­ Now Jet us look at the pressures he is tainly it is one of the most serious in the being subjected to today. Let us look at lifetime of Australians now Jiving. It is a the pressures within the community that are Address in Reply [29 AuGusT 1974] Address in Reply 437 being aimed against those things that the about this when they start testing their average Australian wants and likes to enjoy. 15-year-olds' spelling or mathematics. They He finds that within his own employment soon find out that what we regarded as the his employer, instead of being the friendly basics of education are no longer there. The fellow he always knew, has become a big average child today cannot spell correctly corporation executive. Many of the smaller and children are being encouraged to do less businesses are disappearing, and more and and less simple mathematics. If a child has more the average worker in the community been fortunate enough to be in the top 10 is finding that he is being employed by a through the secondary-education field, he bigger organisation and that his boss is then receives a tertiary education. If he has just a little bit more remote. His boss is not, it is jolly bad luck. a corporation executive rather than the friendly boss he once knew. In the manage­ The average Australian today finds that in ment situation a class-type division is being certain quarters, and in certain sections created between employer and employee in of the media, particularly television, anti­ our nation. Christians seem to have unlimited right of access. This access is tremendously dispro­ The average Australian is being encouraged portionate to their numbers in the com­ to enter into relationships with more than munity. I think this is is a matter that should one woman, rather than adhere to the great be looked at by the Broadcasting Control established tradition of marriage and family Board. Children are encouraged, on all sides life. If he does not like it, he can go and by all types of people, to rebel against and try elsewhere; the State will look after their father's authority. While the average any issue that might come about as the Australian father sets out to teach his child­ result of unions that he is being encouraged ren to be clean, neat and tidy, he finds to seek. On all sides this is the way the that advertising, commercialism and deviates average Australian is being bombarded. It and drop-outs in our community advocate is something that is happening in other that they become dirty, foul-mouthed and lands, and he is told that it is something unwashed, that they should do their own that is good for him to have a go at. "thing" no matter what >the consequences are If he marries and starts a family he to themselves or to their fellow man. Con­ cannot afford to buy a home. He cannot sequently, we are hit with such things as afford the high interest rates that are being the drug problem we are facing today. This charged. He is unable to save the large was totally absent from the scene some years deposit that is required before he can ago. purchase his own home. The average Aust­ All around him the average Australian sees ralian is finding it increasingly difficult to his fellow workers doing less and expecting get his own home, consequently he is com­ to be paid more. So why should he make mitted to pay a high rental for life. But any effort? In some fields productivity is if he has a family he suddenly finds it harder increasing rapidly while in others it is not to rent premises. "Sorry, no children so good when compared with the big increase allowed", "Sorry, no children wanted here", in the use of machinery in the last few years. he is told. Children, the future generation The attitude is, "Let the union or the pro­ of this country, are put in the same category as cats, dogs, and pet snakes by landlords fessional groups to which I belong pressurise throughout our land. He finds that it is the boss. There is no need for me to take becoming an almost impossible task to feed, an active part in union activities. Let some clothe and care for his family because of body else do it." In fact, people are begin­ the high increase in food and clothing costs ning to believe that others enjoy the "Jack" and all the other necessaries for his family. system. We all know what that is Just within the last week the basics of his -"Blow you, Jack; I'm all right." So family food, bread and milk, have been everyone gets on the band wagon to enjoy increased in price. the "Jack" system. It at least appears to The average Australian family man with the average worker that many others are three or four children will find as a result getting away with it. When he does succeed of the price increases just within the last in obtaining more money, he is encouraged week that it will cost him an additional to spend more on beer and such things. If $3 a week to buy bread and milk to he gets more leisure time, it means that he support his family. If he has not the $3, has more time to enjoy himself and get away he has to buy less milk and less bread. It from the rat race. is the children who will suffer. In order to be able to care for his family he has to Today's society is also being encouraged send his wife out to work. This, of course, to feel that people should no longer worry creates greater social problems both for about looking after their aged parents, or children and for the community generally. the sick or infirm. Let the Government do that! They seem to do it quite well or Many of these thoughts have been expres­ provide avenues through which it can be sed in various debates in this Chamber. On done. These are some of the pressures to the surface it would appear that children are which the community today is being sub­ receiving a better education, but people with jected and which, I believe, are in many teenage children often have serious doubts respects, setting us on the wrong track. 438 Address in Reply [29 AuGusT 1974] Address in Reply

Although ,the average Australian may not lace and finds that such laces are not avail­ get sick very often, he sees others obtaining able to the public but are supplied only to doctors' certificates in order not to miss out the shoe manufacturers. Is the community on their "sickies". Of course, many people heading in the right direction? Is it better who live outside the capital city cannot off than before? I don't think so. The con­ afford the specialised treatment that should sumer is faced with a tremendous number be available to all Queenslanders and Aus­ of little problems of this type. tralians. On a much larger scale the community Once people have become used to is faced with the greater problem of des­ telephones, television, electricity and other poliation of the environment by litter, by things, they find that they cannot buy parts developers and by pollution. The nation is for the cheaper foreign-made electrical confronted with the prospect that the burning appliances which were the only ones they passion of nationalism that existed in the had been able to afford in the first place. hearts of earlier generations does not appear When they break down, throw them away! to be present in today's young people. I Buy another one on hire-purchase! No wonder how well the present generation would Problem! People these days have come to respond to the call if required to do so­ regard the telephone as basic; but costs are please God they will not have to. Will beginning to put telephones out of the reach they respond as our forefathers did in 1939 of the ordinary man. and 1914? Is the spirit of nationalism as He thinks twice before he insures his car. strong today as it was in those years? In many instances, because motor vehicle insurance premiums are so high, he cannot Today we see a constant erosion of afford to insure his car. He can, however, authority as well as the whittling away of afford to buy a motor mower, but even in co;Jfidence in those who are trying to uphold this technological age, when a man can be authority. We see a downgrading of the sent to the moon and broc1ght back to earth person who is trying to do something by spot on in a pre-determined place, he cannot knockers who are prepared to get on the buy one that will start v ith the first kick. band wagon and criticise anyone who speaks on what he believes to be right. We see the The average Australian is being warned downgrading of persons both in responsible that the prepacked food that he buys off positions and in small organisations, par­ the shelves of the supermarkets-and because ticularly voluntary organisations. We have they are the cheapest foods available they great difficulty in persuading persons of good are all that he can afford to buy-contains standard in the community to enter local chemicals and that if he continues to eat government. In some areas it is difficult large quantities his health may suffer. to hold elections because too few people are As to clothing, good-quality clothing is prepared to put themselves forward for almost unprocurable. How often do shirt election. They say to themselves, "What's the buttons suddenly pop off or break? How good? If I am elected I will get my guts often do ladies find after losing one button kicked out for nothing." Unfortunately, their from a dress that they cannot buy an fears are quite justified. identical one but are forced to purchase a card of six and so have to cut off and It is time that we had a national look replace the ones remaining on the dress? at ourselves. We are beginning to see dominance by irresponsible persons on the Mrs. Jordan: You can't buy them singly. Australian scene, and unfortunately this will lead to a community comprising irresponsible Mr. CASEY: That is what I am saying; people. As a nation is only as good as its they cannot be bought singly. How long people, it will not be long before the nation does elastic in undergarments last? After as a whole does not care. It's time, all a short time it stretches so much that the right-it's time that we had a close look wearer suddenly finds himself or herself in at ourselves. an embarrassing situation. Men find that after they have worn socks only five or six times I go along y;ith Gough Whitlam, who they push their heels or toes through them. has sa'd that I\ e must curb our demands; This low-quality clothing that is being foisted I go along with Joh Bjelke-Pctersen, who upon the community lasts no time at all, has urged each of us to stand up for our and the manufacturers and retailers say to rights; I go along with Bob Menzies and themselves, "Although it is cheap and nasty believe he is right when he says that we we will put it out on display and get rid of it." as Australians are starting to become greedy; and, although I doubt his sincerity, I even Why women persist in buying pantyhose, go along with Jack Egerton and believe he I don't know. After a very short time it has is right \\hen he sa:;s there is anarchy in to be discarded. The same comments can be made of a simple little item like shoe­ our ~'1'dsL laces. Although a tremendous range of foot­ I believe that, instead of encourag­ wear is available, a purchaser who buys a ing the indiv;dual to strive for prestige pair of exnensive shoes finds that after he within our comrrmnity so that he can, in has worn them five or six times one of the a sense, feel more important, strive for shoe-laces breaks. Quite often he attempts wealth to lavish selfishly on himself, and to buy a replacement to match the remaining even strive for power to exert over his Address in Reply [29 AuGUST 1974] Address in Reply 439 fellow men, we should be displaying more an attempt should be made to overcome faith in ourselves, in our fellow men and some of the problems. As I said earlier, in our nation as well as showing our hope the industry has a history of slumps. As for the future and our hope that the goals sure as there is a record sugar price, a we have for the average Australian will be slump will follow. achieved. That will be accomplished by It must be remembered that this is Queens­ each of us giving of our personal love to land's main agricultural industry and main our fellow man and, through him, to our agricultural export-earner. It has kept the God. I believe that these three great vir­ coastal belt alive-right up to Mossman. tues of faith, hope and love are the basic l learned the other day that, apart from fundamentals of life, and we must do some­ capital cities, eight of the first 20 major thing to adapt them to community living. cities in Australia are in Queensland, and I now move to the sugar industry. Quite four of them rely almost entirely on the a lot has happened in the industry in Queens­ sugar industry for support. That shows land since the last session, and there are how important the industry is to Queensland. some things that it is well to relate, record As I said, as sure as we have a high price, and discuss here and now. One very import­ a low price will follow. This has been ant development in the industry is the amaz­ the history of the industry since the 18th ing and outstanding world record price now century. being paid. The industry has a history of Mr. B. Wood: The 19th century? great price fluctuations caused by the small amount of surplus sugar available for trade Mr. CASEY: The 18th century. I go on the free world market. Consequently, back further in the history of the world in times of low stocks of surplus sugar, very sugar industry than the honourable member high prices prevail. I believe that the pre­ for Barron River. sent price is more than double that obtaining when negotiations broke down last year for I call on the Government to appoint, as a new International Sugar Agreement. quickly as possible, a royal commission into the sugar industry similar to many previous Another very interesting development in inquiries. The history of the industry has the industry has been the problems been one of determination by public inquiry encountered by Britain in the distribution of rather than political decision. I believe its sugar. The sale of sugar to Britain that a royal commission should inquire has been the bastion of the Australian sugar into- industry for a long, long time-as far back 1. The distribution of the recent farm as when the industry commenced to pro­ peak increases in Queensland. gress within this State, particularly after 1915 y,hen the Ryan Labor Government intro­ 2. The basis of future expansion of the duced the Sugar Acquisition Act. In recent sugar industry in Queensland. times great concern was expressed throughout 3. The feasibility of the marketing struc­ industry circles about 1Nhat \Nould happen ture in Queensland and the possibility of when Britain entered the European Economic a change. Community. Amazingly, Britain has now 4. The establishment of more storage become short of sugar to the extent that facilities for sugar in Queensland. sugar is being rationed in almost the same 5. The building of better port facilities way as it was during the war years, except in certain areas of Queensland. that no coupons are being made available. 6. The effect of the proposed establish­ Persons shopping in supermarkets in Britain ment of a sugar industry in Western today must produce evidence that they have Australia. not previously been there, and even then 7. The costs of fertiliser and its dis­ only a certain quantity of sugar is sold tribution throughout the sugar industry. to them. 8. Freight costs in the sugar industry. Generally speaking, there is a big demand 9. The structure of the Queensland Cane in the world market for surplus sugar. Con­ Growers' Council. sequently, we in Australia are in a very 10. The problem of substitution on urban fortuitous position. The home price for sugar has increased slightly, though for the lands. first time since 1967. I think all honour­ 11. The employment of females within able members would agree that there have the industry. been major price increases for most com­ 12. The areas of future irrigation needs rr::odities. It seems fairly definite that next within the sugar industry. month a new Commonwealth-State sugar Time will not permit me to cover the 12 agreement will be made. Since Parliament points into which I seek an inquiry, but I rose in April, the new farm peaks have been will go into some detail on some of them. allocated. I shall touch on those a little In April, I spoke briefly in this Chamber on more as I proceed. the problem of distribution ~f the rec~nt On the surface, everything in the sugar farm peak increases. In answenng a questwn industry looks rosy. In fact, the industry I asked the other day of the Minister for has never looked better. In good times a Primary Industries, he revealed that almost look should be taken at the industry and 40 per cent of the appeals to local cane 440 Address in Reply [29 AuGusT 1974] Address in Reply

prices b_oards and to the Central Sugar accord, it has to take some sort of com­ Cane Pnces Board against decisions on the mercial risk; it has to decide whether to go new farm peaks came from two mill areas­ ahead or remain where it is. Racecourse and Millaquin. In both cases I believe that this resulted wholly and solely Mr. Row: That's all right if you live in from the greed of some of the people a favoured district. involved in allocating the new farm peaks. Mr. CASEY: The honourable member for It is to the credit of the system that has Hinchinbrook said, "That's all right if you been established in Queensland by legislation live in a favoured district." His comment over a number of years that both of the demonstrates my reason for calling for an schemes were eventually thrown out by open inquiry by persons outside the industry. the Central Sugar Cane Prices Board and Local sugar politics are pushed on all poss­ new schemes were substituted. It is impos­ ible occasions, and the only group that will sible in any mill area to evolve a scheme suffer in the long run is the industry as a of farm peaks which is to the satisfaction whole. If a certain district cannot produce of every farmer and, although the new the required sugar, it should not want schemes still contain anomalies, they are restrictions placed on the entire industry to much fairer than the original ones proposed prevent other areas producin'g it. An out­ by the mill peak committees in those areas. side organisation could investigate whether I believe that a royal commission would the additional sugar could be produced more evolve a fair basis on which distribution economically in Mackay, Bundaberg, Burde­ should be made. kin, Maryborough, or any other district, than in Ingham. . I ~ow tu~n to the basis of future expan­ It is necessary to take an over-all look at swn m the mdustry. As I mentioned before the present marketing structure. In these this year there has been an expansion t~ comments, I combine two things. The first the extent of 10 per cent of over-all farm is the marketing structure, and the second is peaks. the effect of the establishment of the industry Mr. Row interjected. in Western Australia. The honourable member who has been interjecting comes Mr. CASEY: The honourable member from an area that is completely dominated does not have me worried in the slightest. by the C.S.R. Company. If he will only sit and listen, he will hear Mr. Row: Hear, hear! :nore about a few other aspects of the sugar mdustry. I hope he will take them on to Mr. CASEY: He would give his eye­ !he Minister, because he, too, is obviously teeth to be a grower in a co-operative mill Ignorant of them. area such as those in the Mackay district. This year a 10 per cent increase has been The C.S.R. Company has been the marketing granted on mill peaks. The new peak allo­ agent for Queensland sugar for a long time, cated to the entire industry in Queensland but that is no reason for saying that it is has been exceeded by the industry in four not time for a change. It is no reason for of the last six years. That fact in itself is saying there is no need to set up our own p_roof that there is scope for additional expan­ overseas marketing structure. At the last swn. There are at present two factions sugar peaks hearing before the Central Sugar within the sugar industry. One says, "Go", Cane Prices Board, when every mill area and the other says, "Hold". But the sugar was looking for an increase, the C.S.R. industry itself must accept that in the present Company's advocate appealed to the board world sugar situation it has to make a to refrain from recommending any increases. decision whether to take what could be He said- classified as a commercial risk in the pro­ "It is the considered opinion of my client duction of sugar. Unfortunately for so that there should be no general expansion long the industry has been backed' by guar­ under the present economic climate." anteed markets. He was complete,ly out of touch with what Brazil is an example of a country that was desired by all other sugar mills in has taken the bit between its teeth and Queensland. He was speaking on behalf of decided to go ahead. There has been an the giant C.S.R. Company. The truth of increase of approximately 10,000,000 tonnes the matter was that there was very little room in world sugar production in the last five for expansion in the C.S.R. mill areas. years, and Brazil has produced one-third of The C.S.R. Company has recently had to that increase. In fact, Brazil has had an leave the sugar industry in Fiji. What average increase of 12 per cent in each of has happened? The point I am making is the last five years. Brazil has profited to that Sir Charles Court, the Premier of the extent that it is now in a far better bar­ Western Australia, has employed the C.S.R. gaining position on any future international Company to conduct a further study into sugar agreement than it was five years ago. establishment of a sugar industry in Western In exactly the same way, I believe that the Australia. Earlier the honourable member Australian industry should start taking a for Hinchinbrook mentioned productivity in similar look at the situation. Of its own the sugar-growing areas. If the C.S.R. Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 441

Company is fair dinkum, I believe it will the Burrum, Tiaro and Woocoo Shires. It find that Western Australia cannot possibly is of great importance to all those who live produce sugar, in the present economic in the area. I sincerely congratulate the climate in that State, nearly as cheaply as Minister for Local Government and Electri­ it can be produced in Queensland. If the city for seeing the project through. Although industry there is to be viable, it will require the recommendations contained in the report massive support from the State Government have not yet been implemented, I am con­ in setting up the infrastructure; it will also fident that in due course they will be. require massive support from the Federal I also congratulate sincerely Judge Mylne, Government, in addition to that already given the chairman of the tribunal, Alderman for the Ord River irrigation scheme. Abbott from Mackay, and Councillor Rogers, Consequently, I think we in Queensland the president of the Local Government must look very closely at where we are going Association, who comprised the tribunal. with the C.S.R. Company. All honourable They tackled their task with determination. members are aware that only about one­ with patience, and with great thoroughness. third of its interests are in the sugar industry. I attended part of the sittings in Mary­ It is now a major mining organisation and borough, and the tribunal spent quite a a major manufacturing organisation. It is an long time there listening to the many sub­ entirely different company from the one missions made, and they went into them which became marketing agent for Queens­ very thoroughly. I commend all members land sugar. of the tribunal for the way they carried out their task. I think it is time we asked, "Shouldn't we sell our sugar overseas for ourselves as After considering the report, I can only best we can, with the support and assistance say that the recommendations made by the of the Commonwealth Government?" Queens­ tribunal are very wise and a logical com­ land is receiving very strong assistance from promise in a very difficult situation. Dr. Patterson, and there is now a ministerial Consider the present situation of the four group in Canberra responsible for sugar in local authorities which were considered, the Federal sphere. It is the first time there namely, the Maryborough City Council, the has been a group such as that, and I think Burrum Shire Council, the Tiara Shire Coun­ we are very fortunate indeed to have it at cil and the Woocoo Shire Council. The present. That is why I ask that it be area of the Maryborough City Council is included. hemmed in on all sides. I doubt whether As I said earlier, the C.S.R. Company the Maryborough City Council has more has not had room for expansion in its own than an acre or two of suitable vacant resi­ mill areas, and that is why it has strongly dental land in any one area under its con­ opposed expansion. I believe that the claims trol. Thirty seven per cent of the 9 · 6 square of all the other sugar-growing areas should miles of the city of Maryborough is taken be considered carefully. up with flood-bound area, aerodrome and railway reserve, so the 9 · 6 square miles is (Time expired.) cut down quite drastically-by more than Mr. ALISON (Maryborough) (3.52 p.m.): one-third-when those areas are taken out. I am pleased to take part in this debate They are useless really for local govern­ and reaffirm my loyalty and that of my ment purposes. constituents to Her Majesty the Queen. I Tinana is across the river from Mary­ do that with particular emphasis on this borough in the Burrum Shire. As it is occasion, having in mind the attacks that it cannot expect to be sewered in the fore­ have been made, both within and outside seeable future, because Burrum simply cannot Australia, on our democratic system of gov­ do it. But after the recommendations are ernment and our democratic way of life, brought into account, and Tinana comes into which is based, of course, on the British the Maryborough area, I should say that democratic system that has evolved over the that suburb can certainly expect to be sew­ centuries. erect and receive a proper water supply in due course. We are fortunate to have a Governor of the calibre of His Excellency Sir Colin The Burrum Shire is rather unfortunate Hannah. He brings both dignity and in that over the years it has grown lop­ strength to his office and is obviously sin­ sided. It completely encircles the city of cere in his efforts to do whatever he can Maryborough. Ninety per cent of its local for Queensland. I also commend Lady government activities are carried out on Hannah, who accompanies her husband what might be termed the Hervey Bay round the State, for the very gracious way coastal strip. The shire office is situated at in which she carries out her duties. Maryborough, which is really the geographical centre of the shire, but 80 per cent or 90 Earlier this week Cabinet released the report per cent of local government activities are of the local government boundaries tribunal carried on 20 miles away. As it stands, this affecting Maryborough and Tiaro, Burrum is completely unsatisfactory. I can and Woocoo Shires. The report has been sympathise with most of the people in the keenly awaited, of course, by residents of Burrum Shire who submitted various matters my electorate and also by the residents of to the 'tribunal. 442 Address in Reply [29 AuGusT 1974] Address in Reply

I maintain that the two small shires of representatives, and the balance of Burrum Tiara and Woocoo are simply not viable Shire will make up division 1 of the new propositions. The Woocoo Shire has a shire and have five representatives, making population of 480 and a valuation of in all 12 councillors with, of course, a chair­ $1, I 00,000. About one-third of its rates are man to be elected by the total shire. eaten up in administration. This is not the fault of the elected representatives or the I hope, and certainly expect, that these new clerk and his staff; it is just a fact of life. local government boundaries will act as a Tiara Shire is not much better off. With blueprint for progress and harmony in the a population of 1,860 it has a valuation of whole area. In the past we have had a $1,300,000. Here again it is too small to considerable amount of disharmony. There be a viable proposition to give the best have been many earnings and goings between service and best value to the ratepayers. Maryborough City and Burrum Shire. We have had much strife and public mud-slinging, Mr. Jensen interjected. which is to be regretted and which does nobody any good. So far as I can see this Mr. ALISON: Now that this Governemnt should be all overcome when the recom­ has made a start at looking at local govern­ mendations in the report are implemented. ment boundaries, I am hopeful that it will look at quite a few other areas. It is important that ,the district act as one on projects which are for the good of all The recommendations outlined in the report the local government areas concerned and it are simple and straightforward. Briefly, they is my earnest hope that there will be no contain the over-all recommendation that the more nit-picking and straight-out public four local government areas be reduced to mud-slinging once these boundaries are three and that the area of the Maryborough implemented. I can well understand that City Council be enlarged from 9 · 6 to 179 there will be grumbles from some people in square miles. That might seem to be a Woocoo Shire and possibly some in Tiara colos_sal_ local government area for a city, Shire, who may say, "We are being swal­ but It Is not really because a great portion lowed up." They are not being swallowed of that area is valueless land. As pointed up at all; they are being amalgamated into out in the report, the Maryborough City what I maintain quite strongly is a viable Council, the strongest local authority in the proposition for a local government. area, should be the one to handle this The thinking of the tribunal as regards valueless land. On the basis of the recom­ local government areas complementing each mendations the city's valuation will increase other is set out quite concisely in a very from $12,490,000 to $12,750,000, and the brief statement on page 35 of the report population will be something in excess of referring to the proposed Hervey Bay Town 21,000. I wholeheartedly agree with the Council. It reads- recommendation of the tribunal on that pro­ posed boundary. "lt is felt that this new local authority which is already attracting some industrial One of the recommendations is that a development in addition to its mushroom­ new local authority be set up, namely, the ing residential expansion will both com­ Hervey Bay Town Council based on the plement and stimulate development in Hervey Bay coastal strip plus some of the Maryborough." ~interland behind that strip and also taking mto account Frazer Island and all those I certainly concur with that but, of course, islands between Fraser Island and the main­ it works two ways. The Hervey Bay people land. The valuation on this proposal at the must realise, as I am sure they do-particu­ present time would be $4,580,000 with a larly the business people-that they would population of something like 7,000. be in some strife if it were not for Mary­ borough people going down at week-ends for The third local authority to be set up under fishing, swimming, picnics and so fotth, and the recommendations is the Baddow Shire especially in quiet tourist periods. So I Council. This is an amalgamation of the stress again that I believe that the recom­ Tiara Shire, the Woocoo Shire, and the mendations as outlined in this report, will balance of the Bm-rum Shire. Together this be a blueprint for progress and harmony and area makes up a viable proposition for v,ilJ eliminate the disharmony we have had local government. It will have a valuation of in the past. $4,230,000, based on present values and a population of something like 2,5oo: It is In answer to my question without notice recommended by the tribunal that the new yesterday, the Minister said that there could be elections in March next year. This makes shire should. ha~e its shire office in Mary­ borough, which IS the most suitable. central good sense. I hope that there will be no place. I certainly go along with that dilly-dallying with the implementation of recommendation. ' these recommendations, because the sooner we have them implemented the better. The It is recommended also that the new sooner they are implemented the sooner Baddow Shire be split into three divisions. we will reach a sensible basis of local gov­ What was Woocoo Shire will be division 2 ernment in the area. The whole exercise and have three representatives; what was has been a great success and will serve as Tiara Shire will be division 3 and have four an example to other areas of the State with Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 443 local government problems. One of the by the Minister for Tourism that tourist matters on which I would like to see much bureau takings from tourist bookings in the greater co-operation in the district is tourism. financial year 1973-74 jumped by 21 per cent to a record $8,800,000. The Minister Mr. McKechnie: It may not be necessary said that this figure demonstrates the resi­ to hold them in Maryborough because the lience of our tourist industry, especially as area won't alter much, but it certainly will be it was achieved in the face of floods and necessary in the other local authorities. other adverse conditions. I go along with his statement, but I believe that greater Mr. ALISON: Yes. That makes a lot of emphasis should be placed on tourism pro­ sense. It is officially recognised that the motion. tourist industry is the third-ranking industry It is my belief that the functions of the in Australia so far as value is concerned. Government Tourist Bureau should be mainly Queensland certainly gets its share of the to endeavour actively to promote both tourist dollar and the Queensland Govern­ inside and outside the State the tourist ment Tourist Bureau can certainly take a attractions of the State, and secondly to bow for assisting to a not inconsiderable extent. To a degree the electorate of Mary­ promote tourism by organising and co-ordina­ borough depends indirectly on the tourist ting the tourist facilities provided in the industry for its economic stability. Of course, State. the main attractions in the Maryborough I do not believe that the Government district are Hervey Bay-fishing in Hervey Tourist Bureau should concentrate its efforts Bay and the straits area-Burrum Heads, and finance on selling tourist bookings both Fraser Island and other coastal resorts as in and out of the State, but it should pro­ well as certain tourist attractions inland. vide this service in a secondary role. Cer­ Maryborough is the centre of all this activity tainly the Government Tourist Bureau should and it is clearly in the interests of my have offices outside the State-in other electorate to support anything that will States and overseas-selling and promoting upgrade the tourist industry in this area. the tourist attractions of the State and making bookings for travel and accommoda­ Last year a film entitled "Listen to the tion in the State. In short I believe that Sunrise", depicting the tourist attractions of the Queensland Government Tourist the Maryborough-Gympie-Fraser Island area, Bureau's main function should be to act as was made and financed by the Queensland a promoter of our attractions, to guide and Government Tourist Bureau at a cost of assist investment in the tourist industry and $22,000. Earlier this year this film, which to assist generally in promoting tourism in was produced by a Brisbane company, Martin the State. In addition to Queenslanders we Williams Films, had its premiere in Mary­ want other Australians and, of course, people borough. It is a film with a difference and from all over the world moving about our very graphically portrays the many splendid State. attractions in our area. Later this year the 1974 Queensland Tourist Industry Seminar Last year the sum of $200,000 was pro­ will be held in Maryborough. I mention vided for the development of tourist attrac­ these facts to point out the importance of tions. This is certainly a step in the right Maryborough to the tourist industry of the direction, but I would like to see even more State. Of course, we in Maryborough are provided in this year's Budget. very grateful to the State Government for One area that is ripe for development the support that it has given us through in the tourist industry is regional promotion. the tourist bureau. Victoria, ·western Australia and New South Earlier this month approval was given for Wales are using the regional idea of pro­ the payment of a subsidy of nearly $600 motion to great benefit. Today's tourist towards the cost of reprinting 30,000 bro­ wants to see a region rather than just one chures depicting Maryborough and Hervey town or city in that region, and for this Bay. This subsidy will be of tremendous reason, amongst many others, it is wise to assistance to the tourist industry in our prom.oie regions rather than individual towns. district. Basically this idea of regional promotion is carried out by local regional tourist promo­ The film "Listen to the Sunrise" has been tion authorities formed by a partnership in accepted for commercial distribution by each region of local government and the Columbia Pictures, and has been screened business community, supported and assisted in theatres thrm1ghout Australia and New by the State Government. Zealand. It has also been sent to London so that consideration can be given to releases In Victoria the State Government makes throughout the United Kingdom. available to regions an annual subsidy of from $8,000 to $10,000, provided local After studying the annual report and regional tourist authorities raise between financial statements of the Queensland Gov­ $16,000 and $20,000 a year from local ernment Tourist Bureau I wonder whether sources. too much emphasis has been put on increas­ ing takings from tourist bookings by the One of the conditions attaching to the bureau and not enough on the promotion subsidy paid by the State Governments in of tourism. Last month we were advised Victoria, New South 'vVales and Western 444 Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply

Australia is that the regional authority and so on. For instance, I understand employs a promotion officer of a standard that for the Wide Bay/Burnett district a of professional competence acceptable to the regional brochure was printed by the Tourist Minister. His office must be in a suitable, Bureau some 12 months ago but that this strategic location within the region and must brochure is not available to our local tourist operate essentially as a tourist information offices. It seems that the Tourist Bureau centre. keeps its brochures strictly for distribution to its own offices. Again, apparently the In addition, in Victoria and Western Aust­ bureau will distribute only to its own offices ralia the Department of Tourism provides lists of accommodation throughout the tourist the entire cost of a regional promotion areas of Queensland. I cannot understand brochure for each region in the States. I such an attitude and I hope that that policy would like to see our State Government will be changed and the lists given freely start in earnest this financial year to provide similar subsidies to local regional tourist pro­ to private-enterprise tourist offices. motion offices. I believe that both the I hope that in the Budget, which will be State Government and the local regions would brought down next month, we will see a get better value for money this way than by greatly increaseu vote for tourist promotion, putting in a tourist bureau officer directly including the financing of this regional con­ responsible to the tourist bureau in Brisbane. cept of tourist offices. I firmly believe, after This stands to reason, because direct control studying what has happened in other States by the properly constituted authority in the with regional tourist centres, that if the region, made up of local government and State Government sponsored the establish­ business representatives, must give better ment of regional tourist offices there would direction and better value for money than be better co-ordination, a better standard remote control from Brisbane. I realise this of tourist literature and brochures, and better suggestion is in direct contrast to the ideas and development and promotion of tourist attrac­ theories presently emanating from Canberra. tions throughout the State. The Federal A.LP. Government is quite convinced that those in Canberra know 1\'Ir. Jensen: You can't eat tourists. best what is for the common good of the people whether they live in Perth, Mr. ALISON: Tourism is an industry. Darwin, Timbuktu or Thursday Island. How­ For the past 21 months an A.L.P. Gov­ ever, I make no apologies for this suggestion. ernment has been in office in Canberra. I am a great believer in continuing the decentralisation of Government activities Mr. Jensen: You're not on that, too, are generally as against the centralis! policies you. of the socialist Government in power in Mr. AUSON: Yes. Stick around. Canberra at the present time. The past 21 months has been quite an In Queensland, of course, the Queensland experiment for the Australian people, because Government Tourist Bureau will consider an a Liberal-Country Party Government had application for a subsidy on tourist brochures been in power for more than 20 years from a local government only. That is prior to that. It was not generally accepted unfortunate, because, although many local that the A.L.P. had changed its spots con­ governments are doing a good job in this siderably since coming into power. In the field by sponsoring brochures from time to campaign leading up to the election in time, the element of parochialism creeps December 1972 the A.L.P. did not come into some local governments. I firmly clean with the people of Australia by openly believe that the best result would be achieved declaring its intentions should it gain office. by the regional idea of promotion, with After the A.L.P. had been in government the regional office controlled by representa­ for some months, it became clear from state­ tives of local government and business ments by some of the Federal Ministers as interests. well as other people associated with the A.L.P., including certain Left-wing trade I understand that in N.S.W. the local union officials, that the electors of Australia authorities and commercial interests con­ had let a tiger out of its cage. It became tribute funds to the regional tourist office, reasonably clear that, although Mr. Whit­ and the activities and employees are con­ lam and other Labor leaders had not referred trolled by the local board, with the salaries to Labor's socialist aims of nationalising the of a manager and typist paid for by the means of production and distribution, cer­ State Government. That is a slightly dif­ tainly this was the long-term (and perhaps ferent system from that used in Victoria not-so-long-term) aim of the majority of the and Western Australia, but nevertheless the A.L.P. caucus. regional concept of promotion is the theme. On 18 May this year, as a result of From the activities of the Queensland the double dissolution, we had another elec­ Tourist Bureau one could infer that it tries tion. Again the A.L.P. hoodwinked the to be too fiercely competitive with private­ electors by playing down the socialist aims enterprise tourist promotion firms instead of of the A.L.P ., or not mentioning them at working with those firms and assisting them all, and played on the sympathy of the by co-ordinating information, package tours electors by asking them for a fair go for Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974) Address in Reply 445

Labor. The great deceiver himself, Mr. month. He made it clear also that the Whitlam, early in the election campaign­ Government, instead of cutting back on its in April this year-did not even refer to own spending to help take the heat out of inflation. demand inflation, will do quite the reverse. The A.L.P. Government will certainly con­ Later in the campaign, because Mr. Sned­ tinue to spend money as if it were going den and his associates made it quite clear out of fashion. Apparently this is the new that Australia was in fact in the grip of theory. It is all right as long as money a very serious bout of inflation, Mr. Whit­ can be printed, so why worry? Jam at last referred to inflation, even ack­ nowledging that there was inflation in In view of all ,this, is it any wonder that businessmen are scared stiff of the future and Australia and that it was a problem. How­ that John Citizen is completely confused and ever, not to worry. Mr. Whitlam assured has completely lost confidence in the socialist the electors that the Government had inflation Federal A.L.P. Government. Anyone looking beaten and on the downturn. from a distance objectively at what has gone Shortly after the election, from official on in Australia in the past 21 months could siatistics supplied it was quite obvious that be excused for thinking that the Federal this was just not so. In fact, after June, it A.L.P. Government is putting into effect a came out officially that the Consumer Price deliberate plan to completely wreck the econ­ Index moved up 6 points in the very quarter omy of the country and bring Australia to of the election-a record increase of 4 per its knees. cent-while Mr. Whitlam was claiming that There is no doubt in my mind that this the A.L.P. had inflation on the run. It was in fact is what is going on at the present quite apparent that, even while Mr. Whitlam time. The socialist Lef,t, which has the was assuring Australia that inflation was on numbers in the A.L.P. Caucus at the present the downturn, in actual fact we were suffering time led by Dr. Jim Cairns, is doing just the worst quarter of inflation for years. What that systematically-wrecking our country deception! economically and in every other way so Since 18 May, we have gone from one that they can ,then offer the people of Aus­ economic crisis to another. At times, it tralia a socialist economy and a socialist way seemed that someone in the A.L.P. Federal of life as an alternative. Cabinet or Caucus would reveal the A.L.P. Dr. Cairns stated on television quite clearly policy on inflation; but no. We had Mr. that it was not the actions of the Federal Crean admonishing business people gener­ A.L.P. Government but 'the system that had ally because of the lack of confidence in the brought about the unemployment figure of business world. Why on earth should we 100,000 plus. This is the thin end expect business people to have confidence in of the wedge. The next thing he will be the future and in the Government when suggesting is that we should change the nobody-least of all the Federal A.L.P. Gov­ system. Dr. Cairns stopped short of sug­ ernment-would disclose what was planned gesting that this would happen under a to counter inflation? socialist system; but that is what he meant. Sure, we had this low-interest Govern­ Some people might be able to live under a ment letting interest rates run up to their socialist or Communist economy, but not highest level ever. Yes, there was a 25 per the Australian people. The Australian is cent slash of tariff rates, which put thousands too rugged an individualist to tolerate any out of work in Australian industries. True, Government trying to shackle him with a there was introduced a requirement of a socialist or Communist type of Government. 331 per cent deposit, interest free, with the There would be a revolution before that Reserve Bank, of funds coming into Aus­ happened. tralia, which effectively stopped Australian Mr. Hinze: I reckon the army would come companies borrowing overseas funds for in. development purposes. Certainly the pri­ mary producers got the greatest kick in the Mr. ALISON: I agree. teeth they ever had with tax concessions wiped, the superphosphate bounty to be Mr. Hinze: There is a bit of an uprising wiped, petrol subsidies scrubbed and back-up now. finance harder to get and dearer. Yes, we Mr. ALISON: That is right. There would have had the worst run ever on loss of time be a Right-wing revolt and the army would through industrial stoppages. All of this take over. seems to make up the great A.L.P. policy on inflation, because nothing else has happened An Honourable Member interjected. or been suggested. Both Mr. Cameron and Dr. Cairns have admitted that the number of Mr. ALISON: That is right and it is far unemployed could reach 200,000 in the next better than putting up with socialism and six months. Communism. This week, Mr. Whitlam made it quite Nevertheless, the situation is serious. I clear that he is not in charge of the Federal hope that the Governor-General recognises Government and has not had his way on it. The A.L.P. Government has lost any the type of Budget to be brought down next claim it might have had to the support of 446 Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply anything like the majority of people. Should clearly that while the Prime Minister was the Federal A.L.P. Government fail next saying this on television, inflation was very month to bring down a Budget which could definitely still on the upturn. I repeat that Mr. be considered to be tackling inflation with Whitlam at that time either was "snowed" some prospect of being effective, His Excel­ by his advisers or was completely dishonest. lency should, in the interests of all Australian people, exercise his prerogative and dissolve The people of Maryborough have had a the Federal Parliament to let the people particularly glaring example of dishonesty decide now that their eyes have been opened, in a Federal A.L.P. Minister in the debacle and whether we are to continue along the of the Maryborough shipyards. Let me path to socialism and eventually Communism briefly recount the facts leading up to the based on the theories of Russia, China, closure of Walkers' shipyards at Mary­ Bulgaria or some other Communist countries, borough. By early 1973, everybody in Mary­ or we are to get back on the rails in our borough who knew anything at all about free Australian way of life based on British Walkers Ltd., and in particular the ship­ democracy. yards, knew that they were in trouble. The man in the street knew. In fact, blind An Honourable Member interjected. Freddie knew that, unless the Federal Gov­ ernment reversed the trend in reduction of Mr. ALISON: I would consider secession subsidy or gave Walkers some cost-plus con­ before coming under a socialist government. tracts for the construction of ships to help combat the uncontrollable rises in ship­ One of the worrying and completely building costs, the shipyards were certainly unnecessary developments in Federal politics in strife. What assistance was forthcoming over the last couple of years, with an A.L.P. at that time from the Federal A.L.P. Gov­ Government in power, has been the blatant ernment? Absolutely none! deceit and shocking arrogance with which certain A.LP. Ministers, including the Prirrie The beginning of the end started in August Minister, have treated ,the electors of Aus­ J 973. At that time, the management of tralia. Whilst at election time it is taken Vialkers let it be known that they needed for granted that some things are said in shipbuilding orders urgently to keep con­ the heat of the moment ,that might be tinuity of work in their shipyards, including, slightly distorted or perhaps a little exagger­ of course, in the drafting office and assoc­ ated, 1 believe that it is part of the Aus­ iated sections. In fact, in that month tralian parliamentary tradition to expect Walkers submitted the lowest tender to the honesty from Ministers of the Crown at both FeJeral A.L.P. Government for the con­ State and Federal level. Back-benchers and struction of an oceanographic ship for the candidates for political positions might be naval service, but the Federal Government, for excused if they become too over-enthus­ some inexpiicable reason, gave the order to iastic or zealous at times, but surely to the 'Williamstown dockyards. What a shock­ goodness we can expect Ministers to be ing thing! Vv'alkers won the contract, but, honest and straightforward with the electors for some re;,son that it is probably best not and people of Australia, and not to treat to go into, it was given to the Williams­ them as if they were a pack of idiots-that t0\1 n dockyard. anything will do to shut them up at the Meanwhile, the management and employees time and buy their votes. of Walkers remained dangling in the air. I shall elaborate in detail on the shocking Early in September it was quite obvious to saga of the Maryborough shipyard, ~md the me that the then Federal member, Mr. part that the Federal Minister for Transport Brendan Hansen, an A.L.P. member who (Mr. Charlie Jones) played in this disgusting was subsequently defeated, was being most business. It is my considered opinion that ineffective in getting the Federal Govern­ Mr. Jones is not a proper or fit person to ment to do anything to assist Walkers. I hold an office of the Crown, and I shall therefore took up the matter with Senator endeavour to convince you, Mr. Deputy Bonner on 11 September, requesting him to Speaker, of that. We have had example make urgent representations to the Federal after example of shoddy treatment and Minister for Transport (Mr. C. Jones) to blatant deceit by various Federal Ministers. seek orders for Walkers to keep up their I think one of the most glaring examples of continuity of planning and work. straight-out dishonesty was when Mr. Whit­ On 11 September last year, Mr. Tom lam went on television shortly before the Braddock, the chairman of Walkers Ltd., May election and stated quite categorically made a Press statement to the effect that and without hesitation that Labor's attack the company would have to lay off men on inflation was taking effect, and that in their shipyards in the immediate future inflation w ts on the downturn. What a unless orders were received very soon. 'What shocking piece of misrepresentation! In fact. was the result from the Federal A.L.P. what a dreadful example of straight-out Government? Once again, nothing. I kept blatant dishonesty! It was either straight-out in regular communication with Senator Ban­ dishonesty, or Mr. Whitlam was being ner in the hope that he would be able to see "snowed" by his department. Events since, in Mr. Jones at a very early date to get across particular the official figures of the increase to the Minister just how serious the position in the cost of living, have shown quite was for Walkers Ltd. shipyards. I know from Address in Reply [29 AuGusT 1974] Address in Reply 447

Senator Banner's secretary and the Senator There seems to be a lot of hoo-ha among himself that he tried repeatedly to make honourable members opposite about tracking appointments with Mr. Jones. However, it Mr. J ones down, or taking two months to was not until 14 November that he was track him down in Canberra. Let me quote permitted to have a discussion with Mr. briefly from "The Australian Financial Jones. Review" of 22 October. Referring to Mr. J ones, the Victorian Minister for Public It took Senator Banner a full two months Works (Mr. Roberts Dunstan) said- to track down and corner Mr. Jones, who quite obvious)y was determined not to be "The background to an answer is littered confronted by Senator Banner, or by any­ with Commonwealth Government indeci­ body else, on this very delicate matter. In sion, apparent disinterest, procrastination fact, Mr. J ones did not see Senator Banner and cancelled appointments." until after he had announced on 7 November That is Mr. Jones for you! that Walkers Ltd. had been offered a con­ tract to build three vessels for the Royal He continued- Australian Navy. As events shortly after­ "The Honourable Charlie Jones, Fed­ wards proved, these orders were too late to eral Minister for Transport, has had eight save the situation for Walkers Ltd. ship­ months to recommend the appropriate yards. assistance for a new dry dock (for Mel­ bourne). I have not the idea what his In the long week-end in January, of course, thinking may be. The proper course floods occurred at Maryborough and caused would be for the Minister to resign." very heavy and serious damage to the ship­ yards. Shortly after this flood, the chair­ So much for Mr. Jones! man of the board of directors of Walkers Ltd. announced that Walkers would be clos­ Mr. Bjelke-Petersen, the Queensland ing the shipyards. No doubt if the board Premier, stated a day or two afterwards that needed a last straw to close the shipyards, he was very sceptical about this promise as then the flood was certainly just that-the he believed it to be merely an election gim­ last straw. mick. He was savagely attacked by A.L.P. supporters, but once again he has been However, what response was there from proven correct. Not only was this "go it Canberra? There was a certain amount of alone" promise by Mr. Jones an election scurrying backwards and forwards by the gimmick; it was straight-out blatant dis­ Minister for Transport (Mr. Jones) and the honesty. Minister for Secondary Industries (Mr. Enderby), with Mr. Jones saying that the However, let me get on with the Walkers Federal Government would take over the shipy:~rd saga. The "go it alone" statement shipyards and then Mr. Enderby, in reply, by Mr. J ones was bandied around quite a saying that constitutionally the Federal Gov­ bit in the election campaign, and never at ernment could not do that. However, out any stage was it refuted by him or by the of all the hoo-ha by the honourable gen­ Prime Minister (Mr. Whitlam). However, tlemen, nothing developed. Meanwhile, in spite of that promise and a few other rash Walkers Ltd. carried on in the shipyards promises made by the Federal Government, finishing their final vessel, No. 36, for Smit lvL-. Hansen still lost the Wide Bay seat. Lloyd. Be that as it may, the people of Mary­ The next event in this very sorry tale is borough have been waiting since the A.L.P. the double dissolution that was brought on won the Federal election for some statement for 18 May. On Saturday, 27 April, we were from Mr. Jones or Mr. Whitlam as to when honoured in Maryborough with the presence this "go it alone" policy of rebuilding ship­ of the Minister for Transport (Mr. C. Jones), yards for Maryborough would be put into who flew in by V.I.P. plane on the Saturday effect. Since the election the new Country morning to support Mr. Brendan Hansen, Party member for Wide Bay (Mr. Clarrie the then sitting A.L.P. member. Mr. Jones, Millar) has been trying to get an indication on the Town Hall green and in front of from Mr. Jones as to just when this promise hundreds of people, including myself, stated would be put into effect, but until recently quite categorically-and his statement has without result. Meanwhile Walkers ship­ been quoted in the Press-that the Federal yards employees were paid off with no Go\ernment would go it alone and construct response from the "working man's" party in shipyards in a flood-free area at Mary­ Canberra. I have no doubt in my mind that borough if the Federal Government could the unions involved honestly believed-in not get the support of Walkers Ltd. and/ or fact, I have met representatives of the the State Government. Mr. Jones was quite employees in the shipyard and I am satisfied keen to enter into a three-way partnership that they honestly believe-as did most other with Walkers and the State Government, but people that the Federal A.L.P. Government he very definitely made the p·omise as Min­ would honour its promise about the shipyard, ister for Transport-there were no if's or and rightly so, too, because it was made by but's about it-that the Federal Government the Minister for Transport, not by a candi­ would go it alone with shipyards for Mary­ date for election. Obviously his word is not borough. worth two bob. 448 Address in Reply [29 AuGUST 1974] Address in Reply

What a shock it was when the Federal Mr. HARRIS (Wynnum) (4.34 p.m.): Once Member for Wide Bay (Mr. Millar) advised again I desire to associate myself and the the people of Maryborough on Tuesday, electors of Wynnum with the expressions 30 July last, through the local Press to the of loyalty to Her Most Gracious Majesty effect that Mr. Jones had advised him that Queen Elizabeth ll. the Federal Government had no plans for going it alone on a shipyard proposal, and For some considerable time the public of Mr. J ones also stated emphatically that he Queensland have been subjected to untold considered that the Federal Government's hardship caused by louts, larrikins and the promise to go it alone was no longer bind­ criminal element in our cities and towns. ing! Apparently Mr. Jones contended that I have listened to most of the National the Government had honoured its under­ Party members in this House, but I have taking by offering to lease Walkers Ltd. not yet made up my mind whether their shipyards after the State Government and constituents regard them as members of the Walkers had refused to agree to a three­ State Legislative Assembly or as budding way or two-way arrangement. Mr. Jones politicians in the Federal sphere. Are their apparently also advised Mr. Millar that when constituents aware that their parliamentary Walkers refused to lease the shipyards, which representatives in Canberra are so incom­ was before the election, the Federal Gov­ petent that they need their State members ernment's obligation was no longer binding. to look after their Federal interests up here? Why didn't Mr. Jones tell the Maryborough I am not going to speak about Mr. Whit­ electors before the election what his attitude lam or the Federal Government because I was on that? know perfectly well that the mandate given In the next day's '"Maryborough Chro­ by the people of Queensland in 1972, which nicle", on 31 July last, Dr. Hughes, the was endorsed at the last Federal election General Manager of Walkers Ltd., pulled and which will again be endorsed at the the rug out from under Mr. Jones by stat­ next Federal election, ensures that the ing quite clearly that never at any stage interests of the people are in very capable had Walkers Ltd. received any written inti­ hands. mation that the Federal Government was interested in leasing the company's Mary­ Government Members interjected. borough shipyards although a verbal sug­ gestion had been made on Saturday after­ Mr. HARRIS: At least I have the courage noon, 27 April. Dr. Hughes also advised to wear an A.L.P. badge on my lapel. I that the company had received a letter from never see any Liberal Party members or the Prime Minister (Mr. Whitlam) but this Country Party members-National Party letter made no reference at all to the pos­ members or whatever they like to call sibility of leasing the shipyards, but, after themselves-wearing an identification badge the company had declined to participate in of any description. I am not greatly con­ joint venture proposals, then the Minister cerned about looking after Federal interests. had raised the matter verbally of the com­ The Federal member who is looking after pany's possible interest in leasing the ship­ my area, Mr. Len Keogh, has done a yards and its facilities. magnificent job. I draw attention to the results of the last election when the Federal Apparently Mr. Jones was advised by Opposition made no impression in Bowman. the company that in the short time follow­ It will make even less impression next time. ing the Prime Minister's letter this pos­ It is very interesting to note that the sibility had not been considered, nor could Country Party or the National Party pro­ it be considered from a practical point of poses to nominate a candidate against me view in the immediate future because Walkers at the next State election. I welcome the were bound to continue to operate the ship­ challenge. I welcome the challenge because yards to fulfil their existing contractual I know the result will be a clear indication of how the Country Party or National obligations. Dr. Hughes also advised the Party-again call it what you like-is thought people of Maryborough that since 27 April of by people in my area and in the southern there had been no approach to the company part of Queensland generally. I will go so from the Federal Government on leasing. far as to say that a similar result will be The General Manager also stated that fol­ shown right throughout Queensland. lowing completion of the No. 36 Smit Lloyd vessel, and the projected complete evacu­ However, it is my intention, as the rep­ resentative of my electorate, to look after ation of the shipyards at the end of this its interests, so I shall now speak without week, the company was prepared to con­ any reservations about Queensland's Police sider a firm offer in writing from the Federal Department which, I would say, would be Government for the lease or sale of the the most inefficient and maladministered shipyards. Dr. Hughes, unlike Mr. Jones, section of the Queensland Government. I is a man of great personal integrity and am pleased to see that the Minister is admired and respected by all in Maryborough here to listen to what is said about him; and others who would know him. it is more than most Ministers are prepared to do and I congratulate him for being (Time expired.) present on such an important occasion. Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 449

In an endeavour to prevent further resig­ "Such a scheme does nothing to create nations from the Police Force, the Com­ good public relations between the Police missioner of Police recently appeared before Force and the general public of Queens­ the Industrial Commission supporting a claim land, but creates a position for the down­ by the Police Union for a 35 per cent grading of decent serving policemen and salary increase and improved conditions. women and recruits by creating a forum This is a new practice of which I am for abuse in all forms. very much in favour, provided the Minister "The Minister, by his endorsement of extends the right to other employees of his the march, shows his complete lack of department. One cannot imagine the Under knowledge of how to run a recruiting Secretary, Works Department, or the Com­ campaign, which can, and should, be done missioner for Housing, appearing before at high school level, by recruiting officers the commission with the Minister's approval. of the Queensland Police Force, to attract In no circumstances would anything like senior students into the Police Force." that be allowed in order to bring any benefit to the workers in general. The change in policy that has resulted in the withdrawal of police from sporting meetings It was plain from the evidence of the is a step in the wrong direction. I think all Commissioner of Police that this step was of us are aware of what is occurring at many taken to arrest discontent in the Police sporting events, such as football matches and Force over the arts and sciences course race meetings. The maintenance of law and being regarded as the main factor in deter­ order, the protection of the public and mining promotions. In support of this property, and the prevention of the abuse statement I quote from an article appearing that arises from the consumption of alcohol in "The Courier-Mail" of 23 July this year. at such functions are the duty of the It appears under the headline. "Whitrod Queensland Police Force, not persons supports police claims" and reads- employed by sporting organisations. "One of the main grounds of the applica­ In recent months we have witnessed shock­ tion was that educational standards for ing incidents arising from the employment of promotion of Queensland Police wene bouncers at night-clubs, pubs and other considerably higher than in any other boozing places of all descriptions. They Australian police force and that nine hours' take the law into their own hands. Every study was required weekly in the police day we read in the Press how they assault arts and sciences course. people and in knocking them down and "Mr. Whitrod said some constables, kicking them cause bodily harm and even, unaware of their deficiencies, resented and in some instances, death. opposed further study. Although many instances of the use of "It was not this group that excited his these stand-over tactics are reported to the sympathy so much as those who became police, others are not. Members of the despondent or even sick because of their Opposition are deeply concerned at the pros­ comparative lack of preparation for today's pect of the outbreak of gang warfare if challenges." conduct of this type is not immediately brought to a halt. The Minister in charge It is also well known that quite a number of police, as well as the Government as a of high-ranking officers and rank-and-file whole, has a responsibility to remedy the policemen have resigned to join the Com­ situation immediately. monwealth Police Force where promotion opportunities and conditions generally are In "The Courier-Mail" on 24 July 1974, far superior to those offered by the Queens­ under the headline "Club patrols may replace land Government. One might also ask how sport police", Mr. Waddell, the president of well the expensive recruiting campaign was the Queensland Soccer Federation, is reported progressing in this State. It does not seem as follows- to bring in the recruits required to keep the "Mr. Waddell said police had a duty to Police Force at full strength. I would add preserve law and order wherever crowds that the Minister's efforts in this particular gathered. campaign have not been the brightest; in "The police decision could force some fact, I would venture to say that they have clubs to form their own patrols to control been reasonably weak. crowds. I should like now to quote from another "Mr. Waddell said club officials with Press statement made by the honourable armbands were being used already at Perry member for Belmont as shadow Minister Park soccer matches. for Police, in which he said- " 'Clubs will not be able to afford police protection. They'll have to get their big­ "The proposed march by 400 trainee gest blokes to watch for troublemakers,' he policemen and off-duty policemen to said." attract recruits to the Queensland Police Force, on 9 August 1974, highlights the What a shocking situation it is when sporting malmanagement and understanding of the clubs and other associations have to resort to Police Force in this State by the present the services of thugs and bouncers to protect Minister for Police. the public! 450 Address in Reply (29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply

It seems that the present reorganisation of other leave or transfer) to look after 65,000 the Police Department has resulted in the people! I am sure that the Minister must appointment of a great number of high­ eventually give some further consideration ranking officers in various positions and a to the problem. vast shortage of rank-and-file policemen and One of the most efficient officers we have policewomen to put into effect the decisions had in the Brisbane Metropolitan area-a reached at a higher level. Although the laws member of the traffic branch-was recently are continually broken and flouted, police transferred from Wynnum on promotion. I officers are used to carry out less-important congratulated him on his promotion. How­ duties of controlling crowds at protest ever, he was replaced by an. inexp_erienced marches and meetings. This was evident policewoman. What a shockmg thmg that during the Springbok tour as well as other is in an area such as Wynnum. demonstrations. Plenty of police officers are present on those occasions, but when a Mr. Hodges: Do you know-- housewife is attacked or when some rapist Mr. HARRIS: Of course I know. What­ is at large no police officers are readily ever you are going to say, it is wrong. available. Mr. Hodges: Do you know why you Another police matter that calls for close haven't got any down at Wynnum? It is scrutiny is the high-speed pursuit of vehicles quite evident that they do not want to go either stolen, allegedly stolen or allegedly down there to be attacked by you as you used in the commission of a crime. If the are attacking them now. police mobile patrols are as efficient as the Minister claims they are, their radio hook-up M.r. HARRIS: Mr. Speaker, I do not take should function in such a way as to overcome umbrage at ,that remark of the Minister. the need for this dangerous practice of pur­ It is very gratifying to know-and I feel suing vehicles at high speeds. Sooner or sure my constituents will feel comforted by later this practice will result in the maiming it-that I am there to look after the interests or death of some person. It could be an of the electorate, because the Minister has innocent member of the public-even a child no intention of doing it. -who is not expecting a vehicle to travel at such outlandish speeds. If the report about the policewoman is correct, what sort of investigation is carried It is quite evident that stricter attention out of women who apply to join the Police needs to be paid today to serving members Force? Does it compare with the police of the Police Force. Quite recently I read check made when a woman applies to be a in the "Herald", which is published in my justice of the peace or is ~alled. up. for. ju_ry electorate, this article on the fatal gassing service? What type of an mvestrgatwn rs 1t? of a man at Lota- Is the check regarded as important, or can "Following the discovery of Toomey's any female become a woman police officer? body in the gas-filled car, announcements Speaking about police office~s _in genera), were made during the news session on what has happened to the drgmty of thrs Brisbane commercial television that a House when there are now policewomen policewoman had been instantly dismissed instead of policemen on duty? This place because of her association with known has gone to the pack. The Minister is l!-ot criminals. capable of providing the necessary pohce "This announcement came immediately officers to give the protection that we as following the news of Toomey's death. members of Parliament are justly entitled "A spokesman for the Wynnum Police to! Station said today that although it was a fact that a policewoman had been dis­ M!l:'. Hodges interjected. missed from the Force, no policewoman Mr. HARRIS: Don't start making any attached to the Wynnum Police Station excuses-- had been associated with this matter, and it was not a policewoman from Wynnum Mr. Hod.ges: You haven't got the guts to that the dismissal referred to." attack a man. You attack the women an the time. You are doing that all the time. I can quite understand that, Mr. Speaker, They are police officers. They are not police­ because I have mentioned in this House on women; they are police officers. They are as many occasions that in Wynnum we have an capable as, if not more capable than, you extremely efficient and well-respected are. If you could do your job half as well Police Force. Every member of the force as tl-oey are doing theirs, you would be all attached to police stations in my electorate right. is well respected. Unfortunately, there are too few police in the area. I have appealed Mr. HARRlS: Mr. Speaker, it is very to the Minister on numerous occasions to interesting to know tha,t the Minister has give further attention to the inadequacies of drawn my attention to the fact that these police staffing throughout the Wynnum dis­ policewomen are better qualified as police­ trict. What a shocking state of affairs it is women than I am. I heartily agree with him when there are only 17 members on the on this occasion. I have no experience, staff at Wynnum (of whom about five are and if they have no more experience than I absent all the time on sick leave, holidays, have, they should not be in the job. Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 451

Mr. Hoilges: Then why are you attacking Mr. HARRIS: What about the Minister them? Why don't you open your mouth allowing me to make up my own mind on a subject you know something about? and not saying what is in his mind? Mr. HARRIS: The Minister should wake Mr. Hodges: You are a gutless dingo. up to himself and say something intelligent. Mr. HARRIS: All right. If the Minister I am discussing policemen and police­ wants me to, I will go on with it. I did women, so I shall speak about some of the not intend to because I wanted to save him assault charges that have been levied against the embarrassment of what I could say. I police oHicers. l shall again quote from wanted to be gentlemanly. 'The Colirier-Mail". It does not ever tell a lie about the A.L.P., or anybody else as far Mr. Hodges: Ask your shadow Minister. as that goes, so that whatever I read out He will tell you all about it. must be the truth. The article reads- "Po!iceman faces assault charge. A Mr. Bromley: Mr. Minister, shut up. young woman told the Magistrate's Court yesterday that a policeman had raped her Mr. SPEAKER: Order! twice and had assaulted her." I shall leave that and deal with another Mr. HARRIS: I shall now deal with the ch0rge against the police. This one reads-- case of Thomas Holden, a third engineer on the ship "Union of Australia" who "An invest;gation is being held into alleges that money to the value of $50 alleged rolice intim;dation of Aboriginals was taken from his person by a police in the north-western town of Cloncmry ... ofiicer on Wednesday night, 26 June 1974. "The report, made by the Mount Isa This case was taken up by the honourable representative to the National Aboriginal member for Belmont with the Commissioner Congrt,s, Mr. Tony Asson, alleges police of Police on 2 July 1974. The same case brutality and discrimination against Clan­ \\JS forwarded to the Minister for Police curry Aboriginals. on 4 July 1974. The ship left Queensland "The report, delivered at the N.A.C. with Mr. Holden, as he is one of its import­ Congress in Dan\in, was sent to the State ant executive crew members. To date, noth­ PoEce Commissioner, Mr. Whitrod, and ing further has been heard from the Minister local pol't;cians. in relation to this case, so it is very obvious "The Federal member for Kennedy, Mr. that nobody \.·ants to talk about it or discuss Bob Katter, has sent a copy to the Police it. Minister Mr. Hodges. Much has been heard about inflation in "Mr. Asson claims in the report that the last couple of months. In the metro­ the police had pointed pistols at the Abori­ politan area alone there are 1,584 permanent ginals' foreheads and told them to keep police officers, together with 173 trainees, their mouths shut about what they had making a total of 1,757. There is one com­ seen and beard." missioner, and there are three deputy com­ What has been done about that? What a missioners, four superintendents, one chief shocking case! And nothing has been done. superintendent, and 62 inspectors, including No report has been made here. four relieving inspectors who relieve where­ ever they are needed. Another problem concerns a crev; member of a visiting vessel. These cases may be I am only concerned for the moment about aired in certain sections of the police adminis­ inflation and commissioned officers. At tration and in Parliament, but what do the every police station in the metropolitan area people know about them? What redress -indeed, at every police station in Queens­ do individuals or victims have? land-inspectors are entitled under this Gov­ ernment, as they were under other Govern­ Let me make this point: Mr. Holden, ments, to transport between their homes and who was a crew member on a visiting ves­ their places of work. Let us take the situa­ sel-I do not think there is any point in tion at most metropo1itan police stations. my elaborating on this. When an inspector has to go on duty, a !VIr. Hoages: Why don't you? Why don't driver, who is also a police officer, is taken you go on with that one? Go on with that off other police duties for at least two hours one. to pick up the inspector. Each morning and evening the services of the driver are lost Mr. I-1lARIDS: I ha,·e decided not to, to the people, and, in addition, there is the that's wh). expense of running the car. And there are 64 inspectors. The commissioner is paid Mr. }[odges: Go on with that one. $837.70 a fortnight. The assistant commis­ Mr. HA.JRRKS: I have decided not to. sioner receives $672.50 a fortnight, and Do I ha,-e to ask the Minister if I can inspectors are paid only $501 a fortnight. continue? They are better paid than politicians, and are not half as good. r;Jr. Horlges: You are a damned dingo. That's ,_Jl :·ou are. Mr. Hodges: What is your point? 452 Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply

Mr. HARRIS: The point is that Govern­ Government Members interjected. ment members have been screaming their heads off about inflation ever since the last Mr. HARRIS: It is not a laughing matter; Federal election, and here is an opportunity it is very important. It indicates what the to curb inflation. The Government wants to Government is allowing to be shown on take pay off the unfortunate worker and television during that period. This is where deprive him of every possible right and the terror in the community comes from; this privilege to which he is justly entitled, yet is where the criminals come from. I remind it allows the inspectors' drivers to be off honourable members that filth and rubbish police duties whilst thieves and liars-and of that type was shown during the children's members of the Liberal and National Parties hour, when at least a quarter of the children -are loose on the public. under nine years of age watch television. I lay the blame for that at the feet of the Mr. Hodges: Are you advocating reduc­ National-Liberal Government. It is not tions in police salaries? interested in children's television programmes; it is interested only in profits and private Mr. HARRIS: I am doing nothing of the enterprise. sort. The Minister might be bright, but he is not bright enough to twist my words. I Mr. Ahern: Isn't the A.L.P. buying into did not say that at all. I stated in the early a television station? part of my speech what we want. The Opposition is prepared to alter the system. Mr. HARRIS: Don't talk to me about the When we are the Government, which will A.L.P. buying into a television station! It has probably be much sooner than Government bought in only very recently. members think, we will most certainly have a very close look at the system. Mr. Ahern: Isn't it a matter for the Fed­ eral Government? Mr. Hodges: Do you want inspectors to walk to work? Is that what you are advo­ Mr. HARRIS: Don't talk to me about the cating now? Federal Government! Honourable members opposite are biased. They have the Federal Mr. HARRIS: No. They should use their Government on the brain. own vehicle or public transport as other members of the work-force do. Let us look at what happens on the Gold Coast. I am sorry that the honourable Let us talk about crime, the inadequacies member for South Coast is not in the of the Police Force, and its poor recruit­ Chamber. Newspapers never lie, and the ment as a result of the people's general lack newspaper headline that I now have before of faith in the force. Listen to what was me says, "Shot-gun, to make his point." The recently said about films and television pro­ article states that the police advised a man grammes and their effect on children by to go and buy a shotgun so that he could the well-known newspaper columnist Lady look after his family and his property, and Cilento, who writes the regular feature, there is a photograph of him. "Medical Mother". Honourable members know that this matter is a direct respon­ Mr. Frawley: Who is he? What is his sibility of the Government of the day. If name? I am going to be told that it is a matter for the Censorship Board, I am fuily aware of Mr. HARRIS: If the honourable member that, too. But that board is under the can read, I will show it to him. direction of the National-Liberal Govern­ Mr. Ahern interjected. ment. Lady Cilento said- "A reliable group made a survey about Mr. HARRIS: I have the greatest admira­ nine months ago of 100 viewing hours tion for the honourable member's knowledge between 4.00 and 7.30 p.m.-the of agriculture; but in a discussion on films children's special viewing time on the four -other than sex films-I think he would be TV channels. lost. During that time the children saw and On the subject of inflation, I have here heard vividly depicted: another very interesting newspaper article 12 murders; headed, "Cop this and still smile!" Under a 16 major gun fights; photograph it says, "Our own charge of the 21 persons shot; light brigade ... ", and it refers to 24 police 21 other violent incidents with guns; horses at Oxley. What a magnificent display 37 hand to hand fights; they put on once a year outside Parliament 15 fist fights; House! Although he is fully aware of the 15 sluggings; crime that is rife in Brisbane, the Commis­ 1 attempted murder with a pitch fork; sioner of Police is prepared to have one sergeant and two constables on full-time duty 1 stabbing with butcher's knife; as stable boys. What a shocking state of 1 suicide, 4 attempted suicides; affairs that is! I am sure there are many 4 people pushed or falling over cliffs; people with better qualifications who could 2 cars forced over cliffs; gainfully be employed looking after these 2 mob scenes with violence." horses. Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 453

I am not suggesting-and I do not want covenant, and try to weaken the harshness the Minister to try to twist my words-that of their impact by trying to be more the stable-hands should train the horses; I moderate and liberal than in fact the PLO am suggesting only that they could look after Leadership is itself prepared to be." their grooming, feeding and so on. They could have the horses ready for training That shows how tough the PLO is! exercises and take care of them when the "In numerous Arabic publications and exercises had been completed. Although I statements PLO spokesmen emphasise they have great admiration for the way in which regard the popular slogan of a 'democratic the horses and the men who ride them are secular State' in which Jews and Arabs turned out on ceremonial occasions, I am sure that the cost to the public purse is very would have equal rights as a useful tactical high. On the one hand the Government says and propaganda ploy which avoids the it is trying to be economical and save money; old image of 'throwing the Jews into the on the other it permits this to go on. sea' and substitutes the more palatable In the short time I have left I want to 'liquidation of the Zionist State'. Since it refer to that shocking bombing that resulted is clear the Israelis are not about to dissolve in the death of a child. their State in favour of a 'secular demo­ cratic Palestine' the PLO offers a prescrip­ Mr. Hodges: Do you do a bit of land- tion for politicide which could only come dealing, too--in real estate? if genocide preceded it. Mr. HARRIS: Land-dealing? "The PLO since the War of October 1973: Mr. Hodges: Yes. "Although there is a continuing debate within the affiliates of the PLO over Mr. HARRIS: I am sorry, I am not with the tactics and short-term objectives, there Minister. I am discussing a police matter. have not been any significant changes in its basic policies. There has been a I should like to point out what is hap­ determined effort to present Yassir Arafat pening in our fair State with bombings. and his supporters within the PLO as Probably the Government is not aware of an 'moderates' in contrast to the 'extremists'." organisation known as the PLO. If Govern­ ment members want to know what it is, it I point out that these extremists are training is the Palestinian Liberation Organisation. terrorists from infancy. Make no bones about The PLO has set out its aims and purposes it, the terrorists who have been hijacking officially in a document known as the aircraft, in many instances, are the very Palestine National Covenant, first outlined in 1964 and amended in 1968. The covenant disciples of this organisation. It was the remains the basic policy of the PLO, and Menzies Government that first allowed them all organisations affiliated to it, regardless of to come into this country. their differences on other matters, subscribe to the main principles. These are- A Government Member: Rot! "(i) The Palestinian problem will be Mr. HARRIS: It was the McMahon Gov­ solved by the 'complete liberation' of ernment that continued to allow them to Palestine by the 'Palestinian Arab People' and the establishment of a Palestinian come in. Less than a month ago, when they State. According to the Covenant 'armed applied for registration as a political party ~truggle is the only way to accomplish it was Gough Whitlam who rejected them this aim'. on the grounds that they were not welcome "(i) According to article 6, when the here. Whether honourable members opposite Palestinian State is created, only those like it or not, that is the position. That is Jews who lived in Palestine before 1917 what is happening and it is only Gough (the year of the Balfour Declaration) would Whitlam and his Federal Government who are be recognised as citizens. All those Jews controlling the situation. If they are not who arrived later, which would include stopped these terrorists will infiltrate the more than 90% of the Jewish population length and breadth of Australia and we will (some 2t million Jews) would be forced have more acts of terrorism like that at to emigrate to their countries of origin. Maroochydore. "(iii) According to articles 15 and 18, all methods of warfare against Israel are It is alleged that that act was directed legal, but Israel's military actions in self­ against a police officer. This gives some defence are illegal." indication of the attitude of the public towards the police; some people are prepared What a lovely statement! We begin to to set off bombs to kill or injure a police­ understand the actions of some of these man-in this case with the result that a small terrorists. The document I have before me child was killed. What a shocking state further states- Australia is coming to, and Queensland in "Apologists for the PLO are often particular! Again the Minister has failed embarrassed by the stated aims which miserably to provide the protection to which have never been modified by a revised every person in Queensland is justly entitled. 454 Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply

He still has not the answer or any know­ to a level above 20 per cent it will tear the ledge of how to cope with the situation. very fabric of the nation apart. Unfortunately When the Labor Government takes over the poorer people and those on fixed incomes, we will certainly provide the necessary-- who are the least able to cope with inflation, are the worst hit by it. All Governments Mr. HODGES: I rise to a point of order. have the responsibility to prune their spend­ The only area in which I have failed was ing programmes. All of us must resist protecting an innocent widow in the hon­ any unnecessary increases in costs. ourable member's area whom the honourable member "touched" for $41,000. It is utterly insane for the Federal Gov­ ernment to increase costs directly as it is Mr. HARRIS: That's completely untrue. doing. Fuel costs have risen tremendously After making a statement like that, the as the direct result of the Government's Minister should resign his position. action in increasing excise duty. The out­ (Time expired.) come has been higher costs in every area of industrial activity as well as in the personal Mr. AHERN (Landsborough) (5.12 p.m.): sector of the community. In rising in this Address-in-Reply debate I Increased postal and telegraph charges, wish firstly to express my loyalty and to which have been foreshadowed, and tem­ pledge the loyalty of my electors to Her porat·i!y forestalled by the Senate, will gen­ Gracious Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Queen erate a higher level of cost inflation, so of Australia and Queen of Queensland. I such charges should be kept at their present wish also to thank her representative, Sir level. It is better for a Government to Colin Hannah, for the able and competent bring down a deficit Budget than to increase way he has carried out his duties and costs in every area of industrial activity, travelled throughout the State of Queensland. which is what the Federal Government pro­ He very kindly visited my electorate on a poses to do. This will only generate a couple of occasions and I thank him and further wave of cost inflation throughout the congratulate him on the job he is doing in country. this State. Mr. Wright interjected. In coming months, all levels of government must give deep consideration to the state Mr. AHERN: No economist-and the of the economy and the impact of inflation honourable member for Rockhampton is not on us all. The situation is critical one-would argue against my contention, nor for every member of the Australian com­ would the Federal Government dispute it. munity and for every level of government­ Federal, State and local authority. The policy of raising interest rates has led to an increased cost structure throughout I wish to make it clear that, in my view, the community. The surreptitious move of each has its own role to play; each has a the Reserve Bank in September of last year role that it must play if the fight is to be to institute negotiable certificates of deposit won. Very obviously, the Federal Govern­ should not have been made at that time. It ment has a larger role to play than the has created a tremendous amount of com­ other levels of government. The State has petition among financial institutions for the a lesser, but still important, role to play marginal deposits that are made usually at in the fight against inflation; local authorities this time of the year. This in turn has led have a still lesser role but some moves can to the creation of an artificially high interest­ be made in their area of responsibility. rate structure throughout the country. The All levels of government must lower their Reserve Bank should not even have con­ expectations and moderate their ambitions, templated such a move at that time. and, at the present time, top priority must There are already enough increases in be given by all of us to limiting cost increases to the general public, because costs to cope with without the Federal Gov­ demand inflation has passed for the time ernment deliberately adding to them. I brand being and we are now in an area of intense its action as insanity in the present cost inflation. The very first thing we must circumstances. do, as governments at all levels, is limit I have taken this opportunity of speaking the passing on of increases to the public. prior to the introduction of the State Budget We would all like an immediate increase in to urge the State Government to lower its the standard of living in Australia and in expectations. All of us in this Parliament­ our State. We would like to increase it both Government and Opposition members by 50 per cent immediately; we would all -must realise that the general public cannot like the roads throughout the whole State continue to bear increased costs. Naturally and nation sealed forthwith; we would like some State Governments will be forced to to double education amenities; we would all make some increases-the Queensland Gov­ like to see Australia sewered within the ernment may well be compelled to do so­ next six months; but a nation must live nevertheless we should lower our expecta­ within its resources. If it chooses to live tions and moderate our demands in the wel­ beyond its resources, inflation is inevitable. fare sector. This is the most responsible And today Governments are living beyond thing to do at this time. Every level of their means. If inflation continues to rise government is being urged by the community Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Address in Reply 455 to take responsible action that will contribute only way to overcome it is to set up towards the alleviation of the current situa­ machinery for the allocation of those moneys tion. closer to the people directly concerned. Local authorities have a particular role What happened was that a couple of to play. They should do as much as they itinerant Canberra commissioners were dis­ can to prune any increases in costs that they patched to Queensland for a couple of weeks might consider passing on to the public. to determine the needs of 130 local author­ ities. That is not good enough. In Queens­ Of course, they have been caught up in land we have three State Government the inflationary spiral. The costs to them departments-the Co-ordinator-General's of wages and all sorts of things have Department, the Local Government Depart­ increased so that an increase in local auth­ ment and the Treasury Department-devot­ ority charges has been unavoidable. How­ ing considerable time and expert local know­ ever, I hope that the local authorities-all ledge to the establishment of priorities for 131 of them throughout Queensland-will the expenditure of moneys at local authority pursue a lower rate of expansion than in the level throughout the State. When the Com­ past in an effort to prevent cost increases monwealth send a couple of itinerant com­ being passed on willy-nilly, because that missioners up to Queensland to make an would only worsen the gross inflation we are assessment in a fortnight, obviously the experiencing. Action of this type must be resultant bungle that was recently handed instituted to control inflation as a first down could have been predicted. There is priority for all of us. no doubt that a dreadful bungle was made of the grants given to local authorities in Recent times have been extremely dif­ Queensland. The decision has caused wide ficult for local authorities. There are definite dissatisfaction. For no valid reason that indications that local authorities-partic­ is apparent, some local authorities were ulariv those based on rural areas-will suffer completely excluded. The two local author­ fron{ ser;Ol!S economic problems in the ities l represent received nothing. Some side years ahead. Costs are increasing sharply by side, with the same problems and the and interest rates are rising to record levels. same rating structures, received vastly dif­ Landholders will not be in a position to fering allocations from this Canberra com­ pay the greatly increased rates necessary to mission, v, hich visited Queensland for a meet the increased costs. Certainly, local short period of time before returning to its autt:orities must receive more money directly colder haunts in the South to make its from the :;eneral income tax pool. determinations. The creation of the Federal Local Author­ An Honourable Member interjected. ities Grants Commission resulted from the very cominendable principle that local author­ Mr. AHERN: I am saying that this is what ities should receive a share of the general actually happened. It could only be described income tax pool. The present Federal Gov­ as a bungle. ernment proclaimed that it would proceed I asked the Premier to make that approach with it in that wav. Now that we have to the Prime Minister because it is a far the results of that commission's deliberations, better way of making moneys available to it is apparent that a dreadful bungle has local authorities from the general income-tax been made in the granting of money to local pool. But no, the Canberra Government said, authorities: there can be no doubt about "This is money that we are giving to local that. I ask the Premier to seek from the authorities and we must get all the credit for Prime Minister the right in future to dis­ it, so our commissioners will go to Queens­ pense the money through a State local land and assess the need." The advice given authorities grants commission, to include by local authorities would not be as good as representatives of the State Local Govern­ the advice available from three State depart­ ment Association and maintain close liaison ments whose officers frequently visit areas with the Co-ordinator-General's Department, throughout Queensland. The officers of those the Local Government Department and the departments are totally familiar with the local Treasmy Department, each of those depart­ scene. ments having one representative on the The two local authorities of Maroochy and commiss!on. Landsborough received nothing from the Mr. Speaker, there is wide dissatisfaction Grants Commission, despite all of their prob­ lems. This year, the Maroochy Shire Council among local authorities with the grants received $859,824 in grants from this Gov­ that were announced recently. The gross ernment and the Landsborough Shire Council disparities in allocations to the various local received $918,054, but from the Canberra authorities seem to be without rhyme or commissioners they got nothing. reason. Some authorities missed out altogether, while others who have received Mr. Wright: They didn't deserve it because grants had not even bothered to present a the State Government gave it to them. case to the c;rants commission. The Com­ monwealth r:·ocal Authorities Grants Com­ Mr. AHERN: I am very pleased to receive mission is the best argument yet against from the honourable member for Rockhamp­ centralised control of local authorities. The ton the interjection that they did not deserve 456 Address in Reply [29 AUGUST 1974] Sale of Human Blood Bill it. In fact, the Rockhampton City Council SALE OF HUMAN BLOOD BILL received more in subsidy from this State Government-- INITIATION IN COMMITTEE (The Chairman of Committees, Mr. Lickiss, Mr. Wright: Of course they did; they Mt. Coot-tha, in the chair) deserved it. Hon. S. D. TOOTH (Ashgrove-Minister Mr. SPEAKER: Order! for Health) (5.31 p.m.): I move- "That a Bill be introduced to prohibit Mr. AHERN: The situation is clearly unauthorized trading in human blood." anomalous. There is no doubt that equity in Mr. Bromley: Where-amongst the this sphere cannot be dispensed from Can­ berra. It must be done close to the areas Cabinet? concerned or there will be a complete mess. Mr. Wright: Y ou'Jl have to pay that I do not know whether any honourable one, Doug. members have visited the town of Maroochy­ The CHAIRMAN: Order! Before the dore, which was an old Crown subdivision of debate proceeds further, I warn the honour­ the lowest possible standard. Roads were not able member for Rockhampton under the sealed and basic drainage and sewerage were provisions of Standing Order 123A, because not provided. Virtually nothing was done. he is acting in a most disorderly fashion. The ratepayers there have carried a terrific burden. I could not ask them to bear more. Mr. Wright: In what way? They had as good a case as anybody else in Queensland, and what did they get? Not a The CHAIRMAN: Order! When I am cent for an appearance or presenting a fully on my feet, the honourable member will documented case before the commission! They remain silent. He was disorderly in the certainly should have received something. way in which he addressed his comment to the Minister, and he is warned under In fact, the Maroochy Shire is reeling from the provisions of Standing Order 123A. the beltings it has had on three fronts which have caused it to dismiss council employees. Mr. TOOTH: The purpose of this Bill This causes me a great deal of concern. It is to enact a law prohibiting the buying and expected to receive in excess of $100,000 selling of human blood except in certain because it felt it had the case, and I feel it exceptional circumstances. had a case, but it got nothing from the Grants Honourable members are aware that in Commission. It would have got that amount this State the supply of blood for transfusion and more from a State grants commission. is the responsibility of the Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service. This service has as its Loan programmes were pruned back main functions the maintenance of adequate because the Federal Government pruned the supplies of blood and blood components, free State programme back this year. Therefore of cost, to the user within the State of the loan programmes of local authorities had Queensland and its immediate environs; the to be pruned back, and Maroochy suffered. supervision of blood usage; and the provi­ sion of a full consultant service in the Commonwealth aid for maintenance of matter of blood transfusion. The service rural arterial roads has been pruned tremen­ maintains a laboratory in serological, bio­ dously. The Maroochy Shire Council was chemical and bacteriological procedures doing maintenance work for the Main Roads relating to the collection of donations of Department. The Federal Government's blood, the safety of fluids for intravenous action has caused it to retrench men. There therapy, and the medical protection of blood is a lot of dissatisfaction up there with the donors. Canberra Government. We can do nothing about the findings of the Grants Commission. It provides training facilities for medical students and graduates as well as laboratory I asked the Treasurer whether extra loan technicians, including trainees from other assistance could be given to the Maroochy States. In addition, it accepts trainees under Shire Council through the interim programme, the Colombo Plan and other programmes. because it has been so poorly treated. We At the present time, the transfusion service can do very little about Commonwealth aid. in Australia is regarded as amongst the five It has been suggested that we might be able best in the world in relation to the adequacy to provide some more assistance from the of its supplies of blood, the high standards Main Roads Fund, but it has been strangled of safety for blood donors and patients, and recently by cost increases in excess of 20 per widespread availability of blood fractions. cent. Increasing registration fees to supple­ The other nations with which Australia ment the Main Roads Fund would not be shares this honour are Canada, Finland, The prudent at this time. Netherlands and Switzerland. These five communities operate their transfusion service Under the provisions of Standing Order with the help of a voluntary unpaid blood­ No. 17, the debate stood adjourned. donor system. Amongst the Australian Sale of Human Blood Bill [29 AUGUST 1974) Sale of Human Blood Bill 457

States, Queensland shares with South Aust­ transfusion of blood can be given to a patient, ralia the highest donor volunteer rate at a and has improved the safety of the pro­ level of 63 donations per annum per 1,000 cedure. Research on the technical &ide has total population. led to a successful design for blood-bank The availability, throughout the whole of refrigerators and improvements in the manu­ Queensland, of fully adequate supplies of facture of the equipment used in blood blood, and all the known blood fractions transfusions. Both these developments have of proven clinical use, has been made pos­ resulted in a saving of funds for Queens­ sible by the close liaison that exists between land and other transfusion services. the State hospital system, so much maligned by some members, and the Red Cross I am sure that honourable members will Blood Transfusion Service, and by the co­ agree that all steps that will ensure the con­ operation of medical practitioners in private tinuance of this fine transfusion service must practice, none of whom charges for the be taken. One such step is the enactment in collection of blood donations from the this legislation which I am now proposing. voluntary donors. A short history ocf the events which have led to the introduction of the Bill is of At the present time, there are 346 doctors interest. acting in this capacity. Their efforts are supplemented by nearly 1,000 Red Cross In 1961, the then Commonwealth Attorney­ unpaid voluntary workers, of whom 141 General expressed the opinion that the expiry are trained nurses. One medical practitioner of a patent owned by the Commonwealth for gave his services in a full-time capacity "Improvements in or relating to the frac­ free of charge for seven years. Many of tionation of proteins and the product thereof" the doctors and volunteers have a service of could cause some problems. This patent over 20 years behind them. Some of these defined the method used by the Common­ volunteers are on call for 24 hours a day, wealth Serum Laboratories for the extraction seven days a week, for the purpose of donor and separation of the various fractions of call-up. In some instances, donors may human blood. The blood processed by the travel up to fifty miles to give their blood, laboratories is donated by the public to the and their transport is provided free of cost Red Cross Transfusion Service. These blood by volunteers. products produced by the Commonwealth It is appropriate at this point to pay a Serum Laboratories are available to patients tribute to the Director of the Queensland along with whole blood. Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, Dr. A. E. Shaw, who has devoted his career to One outcome that it was feared might the service. It is due to his efforts that the follow the expiry of the patent was that Queensland service has reached and main­ commercial interests might pay for blood, tained such a high standard over many years. as is the case in some overseas centres, Dr. Shaw, who is a past president of the and engage commercially in the fractiona­ Australian Society of Blood Transfusion, is tion of blood. One local pharmaceutical com­ currently the councillor for Australia­ pany actually investigated the possibility of Oceania on the executive of the International establishing such an enterprise in conjunc­ Society of Haematology. His services as a tion with a United States firm. The entering postgraduate lecturer have been sought by of commercial firms into blood transfusion England, the United States of America, South and related activities could wreck the Red Africa and other countries. Dr. Shaw has Cross Society blood donation scheme and so acted as an adviser in the field of blood trans­ deprive the public of readily available free fusion to the Federal Government and the blood and blood-fraction transfusions. World Health Organization in their efforts to Legal advice at the time of the expiry of provide aid and training for developing the patent mentioned was to the effect that countries. At his headquarters in Queens­ any extension of the patent was not legally land the director is supported by a highly possible. A meeting of the Standing Com­ competent team of scientists and technicians. mittee of Commonwealth and States Senior members of the staff have represented Attorneys-General came to the conclusion Australia at international meetings, and at that the problem could be solved by uniform the time of his death early this year, the late legislation prohibiting the sale of human Mr. J. A. Albrey, the consultant serologist, blood. Some other Australian States passed was a member of the Albumen Working legislation following this opinion, but, as Party of the International Society of Blood the commercial firm referred to was per­ Transfusion. suaded not to pursue the matter, the matter The Queensland Blood Transfusion Service was left in abeyance for the time being in maintains the rare donor register for the this State. whole of Australasia. The excellent training My attention has, however, now been facilities available here draw many interstate drawn to the enactment last year of related and overseas workers to Queensland. legislation in the United States where it Research at the Queensland centre has was found that over 800 persons died in one resulted in important practical discoveries. year from serum hepatitis as a direct result One has halved the time previously necessary of blood transfusions in areas and circum­ for the cross-matching test needed before a stances where the legislation concerning blood 458 Sale of Human Blood Bill [29 AuGUST 1974] Sale of Human Blood Bill collection and distribution was described as The present Red Cross Blood Transfusion disjointed and unco-ordinated. I therefore Service is doing a remarkable job in Queens­ consider it timely to introduce the present Bill. land. The interests of the donors must be Mr. W. D. Hewitt: In relation to donors, protected. If we allowed unrestricted trading not recipients? in human blood under the supervision of some commercial organisation, I fear that standards Mr. TOOTH: No; they were recipients. would be lowered and the whole context of If the concept of voluntary blood dona­ blood transfusion services would fall into tions were eliminated and blood donors were disrepute. As the Minister has said, in some paid there would also be a considerable overseas countries that has happened. It increase in costs. The cost of operating the would mean that we would no longer have the Queensland service for the year ending 30 excellent service we presently have in this June 1974 was approximately $750,000. Of State. this the State contributed approximately I endorse the Minister's remarks about Dr. $450,000 (60 per cent of the total). The Shaw, whose reputation is world wide. He remaining costs were met by the Common­ is an excellent man in his particular field of wealth Government and the Red Cross Ser­ medicine. vices. During 1973-74, over 120,000 volun­ The Bill is essential for the protection of tary blood donations were collected in Queens­ the medical services that are provided. We land. In those countries where a fee is paid, welcome the Bill, and have no opposition a charge equivalent to $10 is quite common. to it. If such a fee were paid in Queensland, costs for blooJ donations alone would run into Dr. EDWARDS (Ipswich) (5.45 p.m.): I more than $1,000,000. am pleased to support the legislation intro­ duced by the Minister. To many people In some overseas countries large groups this might seem to be simply a minor, of professional donors have come into being, formal piece of legislation, but I believe and it has been found that there is a high it is a very important Bill which will give incidence of hepatitis carriers among them, very wide protection and ensure the con­ as well as frequent attempts at concealment tinuation of the best possible form of trans­ of relevant medical history. fusion service within this State. The sale of whole blood and blood frac­ As the Minister said, the Bill's purpose tions could result in shortages of blood in is to prohibit unauthorised trading in ~uman this country. Overseas countries where the blood. Therefore in general terms, It Will price for blood is high, particularly the rare prohibit both the buying and selling of groups, could purchase the Australian dona­ blood from humans. The minister also out­ tions. If a transfusion service were allowed lined circumstances and instances that are to sell its products, there would be an excluded, for example, the by-products of incentive to promote the use of blood trans­ human blood or derivatives of blood for fusions with a resultant unnecessary overuse, vaccination and immunisation purposes or, and a shortage when really needed in emergencies. in the very rare emergency situation, for a particular need. It is an odd paradox that when no charge Throughout the world there are two basic is made more donors volunteer than when a forms of collection of human blood, which paid system is allowed. This has been the the Minister has outlined. One is the volun­ experience in other countries and is docu­ tary donor system where people donate their mented in overseas reports. blood. They receive no payment or com­ May I add that in this materialistic world, pensation whatsoever. This is the system the fostering of volunteer services should be under which we operate in Queensland and supported in order to stimulate that noble under which we shall continue to operate humanitarianism which I feel sure still exists under this legislation. Under the second in our community. form donors are paid for their blood by Under the present system a highly efficient commercially oriented agencies or blood transfusion service is operating, and blood banks scattered throughout the country. In is not wasted or used unnecessarily. Such the United States of America up to 50 per a service must be preserved and protected. cent of all blood is bought; in Japan, on This legislation will help to do that. the latest figures I could find, the figure is 98 per cent; in Italy 80 per cent; Korea The Bill is a short one. Its provisions are easy to foilow, and there is no need to 90 per cent; Sweden lOO per cent; and enlarge on them at this stage. I submit France 5 to 10 per cent. The payment for donation varies from a very small amount the Bill to the Committee for its consider­ ation. to a sizeable figure. The commercialisation of blood in those Mr. MELLOY (Nudgee) (5.43 p.m.): The countries is, of course, big business. In Opposition welcomes the introduction of this some countries there are advertisements and legislation. The Minister has made clear inducements for donations of blood and, the necessity for it. If we were to permit of course, this has led to all kinds of prob­ the commercialisation of a service of this lems. In 1965 a survey found that 90 nature, it would react to the detriment of the per cent of all donors who were paid for community. blood were males and 90 per cent for all Sale of Human Blood Bill [29 AuGusT 1974] Sale of Human Blood Bill 459 donors who were paid for blood were They say it increases the danger of unethical unemployed. In America, 75 per cent were behaviour in various sectors of medical Caucasian and 25 per cent negroid. The science and practice, and results in situations payments for donations in America that year in which proportionately more and more ranged from $U.S.5 to $U.S.50. blood is supplied by the poor, the unskilled The commercialisation of blood has meant and the unemployed, and those who need that paid donors are more reluctant, and blood and cannot afford it often miss out. less likely, to reveal a full medical history, lt is fitting to pay tribute, as the Minister as the Minister outlined, and provide infor­ has done, to the blood transfusion services mation about recent contacts with infectious that are available throughout Queensland. diseases, recent innoculations, drug and The total transfusion service is the result in alcohol intake, and their general health. Queensland of a very close working relation­ Martin Gross in his book "The Doctors" ship bet"een the Red Cross Society, the found that in paid donors the risk of disease Health Department, through its hospital transmission is ten times higher for serum services, and private practitioners. hepatitis than it is in voluntary donors. In most provincial cities the Red Cross An American doctor, Dr. \Vheeler, in 1964, collects the blood, and it is processed and said: distributed, through the decentralised blood "I take the position that blood obtained banks that are set up throughout the State, from commercial sources is considered to New Guinea, Northern New South Wales more dangerous than blood obtained from and the Northern Territory. These blood non-profit banks." banks also supply blood in various forms to private doctors for use in private patients. He also considered that more deaths were The basic control is through the Red Cross caused by the use of blood from paid Transfusion Service in close co-ordination and donors that from the use of blood from co-operation with the hospital service. volunteer donors. In centres where the Red Cross Society Doctors All:"n and Garrott, in the "Journal does not have a collecting system, blood of the Amencan Medical Association", in donors give their blood when required 1962, said: through the local doctors and hospital. "The only answer is to eliminate the It can be seen, therefore, that blood donors professional donor entirely." are volunteers who give their blood, either A further quotation from Drs. Price and regularly or infrequently, because they feel Geshon in 1965 reported that a survey of they have a responsibility to the community. patients receiving donations of blood from Such responsibility comes from a community paid donors showed haematological evidence spirit or is perhaps the result of a person's of serum hepatitis in over 65 per cent of direct need at some time being met by the cases. In his book "The Gift Relation­ prov1s1on of blood, either from someone ship-from Human Blood to Social Policy," unknown to him or from his relatives or Titmus basically found three conclusions fol­ friends. lowing a comprehensive study of the Ameri­ As I have already indicated, in some over­ can and British systems. I should like to seas countries blood is bought and then sold state those three points for the information in hospitals to recipients. This has led to all of the committee. They are: kinds of problems, and the trading in blood l. Paid donations entail much greater has been associated with many unsavoury risks to the recipient in as much as it situations. The commercialisation of blood leads to higher levels of disease, chronic is big business, and often leads to unfortunate disability and even death. incidents. As well it can lead to inequality in the availability of blood. 2. It was potentially more dangerous to health of paid donors. Fortunately in Queensland very little of such trading has occurred. In the early days 3. Paid donations, in the long run, pro­ of transfusion services, however, some private duce a greater shortage of blood. practitioners provided a good service that, I The book goes on to say- believe, involved certain charges for blood. "From our study of the private market Another point is that if trading were of blood in the United States of America, allowed, the volunteer system of donors and we have concluded that the commer­ helpers for the service would, as the Minister cialisation of blood and donor relation­ has rightly pointed out, greatly decrease. It ship represses the expression of altruism, is a proud honour to be a regular blood erodes the sense of the community, lowers donor or a volunteer Red Cross worker. This scientific standards, limits personal and pride should be encouraged and engendered, professional freedoms, sanctions the mak­ and the Government and the community ing of profits in hospitals and clinical should continue to play the role of apprecia­ laboratories and legalises hostility between tion of such services. doctor and patient." To refer again to the Red Cross Society­ They went on to say that it subjects the it is recognised world wide as being expert critical areas of medicine to the laws of the in blood transfusion services. Again I wish marketplace and places immense social costs to pay tribute to Dr. Shaw, the Director of on those least able to afford and bear them­ the Red Cross Transfusion Service, who, namely, the poor, the sick and the inept. despite many difficulties, has been a pioneer 460 Sale of Human Blood Bill [29 AUGUST 1974] Sale:of Human Blood Bill

in this field. As a result of his work as well in years gone by, will be unseen in modern as that of those associated with him, the medicine and will be reflected upon, with transfusion service in Queensland has gratitude, in medical history books. The achieved world-wide recognition. Transfusion anti D substance is, of course, included in in Queensland is as safe as it can be for this legislation. both donors and recipients, and this has been achieved, fortunately, without commercial­ Many other advances have been made in isation. I pay tribute to the Red Cross Service Queensland, in close association with the and the hospital service on the manner in transfusion services, of which we can be very which they conduct this part of their opera­ proud. They are: tions. The very high standard has been (1) The mini-exchange technique in the achieved, of course, only by the dedication treatment of agranulocytosis and thrombo­ of professional people, by the volunteers of cytopenia for people suffering from con­ the society and by the community in general. ditions requiring blood. A particular mini­ In this legislation far more than just blood exchange technique was developed by the is involved. Blood transfusions are used for Red Cross Service which has been used replacement in surgery, both emergency and to tremendous benefit to save the lives elective; in obstetrics, for haemorrhage asso­ of many people, with a tremendous saving ciated with confinement; in traumatic situa­ in the amount of blood that has been tions; in the treatment of medical conditions used for such patients. such as anaemia and leukaemia; and so on. (2) The papain test, which the Minis.ter As well as this, products of blood, such as mentioned in his speech, for cross-matchmg serum, plasma, platelets, haemophiliac frac­ techniques which have made the cross­ tions, and so on, are extracted and used for matching of blood extremely safe. specialised purposes for special needs. The (3) The development of cryoprecipitate preparation and fractionation of blood and products for the treatment of haemorrhage blood products have in many cases been in haemophilia. pioneered in Queensland in conjunction with many other world standard pioneering moves (4) The perfected exchange transfusion that have been made in the health services of in babes, some years before the techni9ue the State. The community have benefited a was written up in any of the medical great deal. and many lives in Queensland and journals. This was performed in our State in Australia-perhaps even throughout the hospitals through the valued work of the world-have been saved as a result of these Red Cross Service. pioneering inventions. Many with incurable conditions have been able to live longer and (5) The use of albumen with blood in more comfortable lives because of these exchange transfusion for extremely high developments. levels of serum bilirubin as a result of liver damage was another technique that As weil as this, in Queensland we have was perfected through the Red Cross trans­ seen pio:1eered and developed the prepara­ tion of the serum product called anti D, fusion service and our Queensland hospital which is now used as a prophylaxis against services. Rh disease of the newborn. I am informed I feel certain, therefore, that this legislation that in Australia it was used for the first to prevent commercialisation of blood and time in Queensland. When one recalls that blood products is a very wise move. I can until about five years ago the Rh disease of see no advantages whatsoever in the involve­ babies as a result of incompatability of the ment of commercial payments and I feel that blood groups of a husband and wife was a it could lead to the lowering of standards major cause of neonatal mortality and mor­ and poorer facilities. It could also lead to bidity, one realises the tremendous changes the inadequate provision of blood or blood that have taken place in this medical field. products to those in need or those who may Often a woman of Rh negative blood mother­ be unable to afford the cost. This Bill, ing a child from an Rh positive father could as I understand it from the Minister's speech, expect serious problems for her babe, and will make certain that our present provision often in her second, third or fourth baby of excellent transfusion services will continue there could be very tragic problems for the without fear of commercialisation. Over the babe. In some rare cases, of course, the years an excellent task has been performed problems occurred even with the first. without any commercial trading and, with As a result of these medical advances, this legislation, that will continue. pioneered and processed mainly in Queens­ I assure the Minister that I fully support land, diagnostic tests were developed which the legislation, and I feel sure that it will be were able to indicate to the doctor the supported by the medical profession and by babies at risk. Now, after further research, the community because it will prevent the a special anti D serum has been produced evolution of any commercial system which for the benefit of mothers whose children would or could interfere with the system may be at risk. It can now be confidently as we know it at the present time and as predicted that within 5 to 10 years the we know it should be. dreaded Rh disease of new-born babes, which was a curse that killed many of our children [Sitting suspended from 6 to 7.15 p.m.J Sale of Human Blood Bill [29 AUGUST 1974] Sale of Human Blood Bill 461

Mr. HUGHES (Kurilpa) (7.15 p.m.): I I remember Dr. Shaw once saying to me support the motion. Undoubtedly every hon­ that he had the most efficient-not "the ourable member will support this measure. The :nost efficient"; they are my words-the blood Bill considers community service and has no bank service with the lowest cost of collection association with politics or commercialisa­ in Australia. He told me that a considerable tion. It is treated as such by all members number of years ago. Only recently, I of the Committee, and rightly so. again checked with him and he told me that I believe it is fitting for those of us who Queensland has not only the most efficient know something of the background and the service but also the lowest cost of collecting personalities associated with this wonderful blood donations in the world. This reflects service to pay tribute to those who, with tremendous credit on him and his staff. There sacrifice and dedication, have done this work are 341 doctors who give their time and over the years. Their sincerity and applica­ service to this work, and 1,598 voluntary tion should be recognised. As a public workers. It is this voluntary service that forum this is an ideal place in which to record keeps the cost of running the Red Cross properly those sentiments. Blood Transfusion Service to its present low figure, and this is most advantageous in To some the Bill might seem unnecessary. times of inflation when the cost of running On the other hand, it will prevent the pos­ such a community service can become an sibility of any firm, company, or individual almost insurmountable barrier. I think it commercialising on the donation of blood. I, is as well to record that the service has a and I am sure other honourable members, panel of five doctors on the staff, three of could not think of anything more degrading whom are full time and two part time. and humiliating than the selling of blood to the recipient. In our society, people do Dr. Shaw, who controls the centre, has donate blood and co-operate with the Red been its pivot point, and he has pioneered Cross Blood Bank-and in other parts of many innovations in this work not only in the world with other organisations undertak­ Australi~ but throughout the world. He has ing this task-out of altruistic motives towards lectured in the Christian Barnard Hospital in one's fellow man. There must be an organ­ South Africa and in many other countries­ isation to make this work. We have the Red in hospitals in England, the United States Cross Blood Bank, which does the job in and South America-and he has opened a a most efficient manner. world conference on blood transfusion. I pay a tribute to Dr. Shaw and his staff. Mr. Jensen: Who gave you your brief? Dr. Shaw is in charge of the blood bank and Mr. HUGHES: I do not get my briefs has been with it for 30 years. I am sure from anybody. I simply checked what has that, in paying a tribute to him and his happened at the blood bank. I am sure staff, I echo the sentiments of thousands of that the honourable member will not only people who have enjoyed the benefits of this agree with my statements but will adopt service which, in many cases, has meant the an attitude of commendation to the blood saving of the recipient's life. It is because bank. of the organisation, efficiency and dedica­ tion to service of Dr. Shaw and his staff Mr. Jensen: I will. that our blood bank is second to none in Mr. HUGHES: I am glad of that, because the world. the blood bank deserves every commendation. M;. Jensen: Do you think it would give There are organisations that are solely an injection to the Minister for Health so private-enterprise operations, and others that that he could stay on? are Government instrumentalities. We are dealing now with an organisation that is Mr. HUGHES: I do not think that the more of a community service supported by :\1inister needs any help in that direction. He the Government and the community. It is seems to be quite healthy. helped by Governments of all political colours, and by people who volunteer their The service is of great benefit to many of services. The job that they do is second to those people who, through no fault of their none in Australia, and it is recognised own, become injured in motor vehicle throughout the world. accidents or undergo operations. I have personal experience of it because my first Dr. Shaw has had over 20 scientific papers wife, owing to an asthma condition and published. He is also a councillor for Aus­ various operations, received a number of tralia and Oceania in the International blood transfusions. I know of many other Society of Blood Transfusion, and he is people, some of whom I have helped, who President of the Australian Society of Blood have received blood transfusions. Transfusion. As an indication of the degree of recognition accorded the Red Cross Blood I am on the ambulance committee. It Transfusion Service in Brisbane, and as a appreciates the co-operation it has received tribute to Dr. Shaw and his staff, towards from the Red Cross Blood Bank in providing the end of this year, or next year, a German emergency service. There is complete rap­ professor from Frankfurt, who is the director port between the two organisations. So it is of the blood bank in that city in Germany, that so many people owe their lives to the is coming to this country to give a lecture Red Cross Blood Bank. in honour of Dr. Shaw. As I have said, 16 462 Sale of Human Blood Bill (29 AUGUST 1974) Sale of Human Blood Bill this is a compliment not only to Dr. Shaw co-operation with the Red Cross, have pro­ and his staff but to the thousands of donors, vided the necessary facilities to collect blood voluntary workers and professional people and transport it under the very best con­ who have built up the reputation of this ditions to the areas of the State in which service till it is second to none, and one that it is needed. is quite indispensable to the community. The Government could not run it at its present As a young man, I went to a country state of efficiency, and with the extent of hospital where the local Red Cross, in community involvement that it entails. co-operation with the ambulance, was very active in this aspect of the work of the Dr. Shaw has personally written so many transfusion service. In that town, one had papers and texts that people in other countries to decide whether blood would be needed write to this State for information in this in particular circumstances and make arrange­ field. Such requests come from countries ments beforehand to have it available. When behind the Iron Curtain, such as the Soviet such a decision was made, because virtually Union and Czechoslovakia, as well as from the whole population of the town had been South America, Japan and other places. Such blood grouped by the ambulance and the approaches not only recognise Dr. Shaw and Red Cross in conjunction, blood donors were his work, but bring to Brisbane and Queens­ brought to the hospital by the ambulance land the plaudits and commendations of service and blood was taken in preparation those engaged in this work in other places. for the emergency or to be used under the I pay Dr. Shaw and his staff a tremendous conditions that one was anticipating. personal tribute, and I know it will be echoed by tens of thousands of people who Over the years a large number of very have, either directly or indirectly, benefited dedicated people have been involved in pro­ from this efficient and dedicated community viding a blood transfusion service in this service. State, and the importance of the voluntary Although it may be said that the Bill nature of the service has been stressed bv is premature, or perhaps not particularly honourable members who have preceded m~ necessary because there is no danger or in the debate. If we abrogated the rights likelihood of the commercialisation of don­ of the voluntary organisation and denied it ations or the sale of human blood, I the facilities to provide a public service of believe that it is necessary to take action this type, the community would be worse now instead of trying to ·lock a door or off. On the other hand, it is very important close a loop-hole after great damage has that a warning be sounded that, in the been done. Therefore, I commend the intro­ context of modern hospital and other ser­ duction of the Bill. Commercialisation would be repugnant to me; it would be vices, if we expect nurses, paramedical degrading and unnecessary. workers and the medical profession itself to provide a service beyond the normal The efficiency of the Red Cross Blood expectation of a modern society, simply Transfusion Service is a tribute to those who because they are involved in the field of donate blood, to the professional men who medicine, we cannot say to them, "You work voluntarily and selflessly at the blood bank throughout the year, and also should do it because it is for the good to Dr. Shaw who, over a period of more of the hospital." Those days have gone; than 30 years, has built it up and enabled that attitude is anachronistic. it to achieve a world-wide reputation and I trust that we will always have in our become a model for the establishment of society a situation in which the very best similar services in other parts of the world. services can be provided on a voluntary He and his staff deserve the commendation basis for the good of the public and for of all of us for providing such a necessary the welfare of the patients. and worth-while community service. The Bill in itself could be called a trivial Dr. CRAWFORD (Wavell) (7.27 p.m.): It one. Its actual content is quite trivial, but is important that we try to learn some les­ its importance is very great indeed. In no sons from the activities of the blood bank circumstances do we wish to introduce into in this State, and also that we understand this community any form of payment for the activities that have made it necessary the actual giving of blood. One honourable to introduce a Bill of this type in the member told me this afternoon that he has Queensland Parliament. given 84 blood transfusions over the years. There is no doubt that Queensland has Of course, his is a first-class record. Maybe a quality blood transfusion service. It has the Red Cross should give him a medal been nurtured over the years by doctors in when he reaches his 100th. I do not know active practice in various disciplines. The where he would wear the medal or how efficiency of the full-time director of the he would display it. But it is important blood bank, Dr. Shaw, has already been that community service of this type should eulogised in the Chamber today by other be recognised, and its importance should honourable members. The service has also be seen by the public, because we must been involved very much with the activities continue to foster this attitude in the com­ of pathologists and other people who, in munity. Sale of Human Blood Bill [29 AUGUST 1974] Sale of Human Blood Bill 463

Not so long ago blood was not readily do that. If the free spirit of man is available anywhere in the world, and patients to succeed in advancing knowledge, he must in large numbers died because of the non­ be allowed to do it in a research atmos­ availability of blood in emergency situations. phere that is conducive to the free range Nowadays in most modern hospitals literally of his ideas. The greater the control over huge quantities of blood are used in some what he does, whether he is functioning in circumstances. a medical or a non-medical sphere, the less With the improvement in technological likely he is to conduct research which is skill, routine surgery does not now involve of any real significance to the community. the l!se of blood in the same way as it In the public hospitals of this or any other did in the past, but blood transfusions of State, the quality research which has been a massive type can save life in an emergency, conducted by the Red Cross can be emulated and do enable the performance of very if the right conditions are provided, but one complicated procedures such as the technical cannot expect doctors or any paramedical aspects of heart surgery when virtually the people to conduct research projects if they are whole of the patient's blood volume is used stultified or controlled in any way whatever. in a transfusion method to keep him func­ In fact, if we are to attract to a State or to a tioning while the intricate operation is being capital city members of the medical com­ carried out. munity with the ability to conduct first-class It is important that we maintain com­ research, we must provide first-class condi­ munity standards. I have been on my feet tions under which they can work. on many occasions in this Chamber talking One of the things which must come out of about community standards. I do not the Scott report will be the setting up in this approve in any circumstances of any organ­ State of research institutions comparable with isation which half-trains any person. I still the Medical Research Institute directed by do not approve of the principle of half­ Dr. Ralph Doherty. Dr. Doherty inherited training a professional person. A person Dr. E. H. Derrick's mantle and he conducts should have full qualifications or remain first-class research. Strangely, it does not unqualified. I do not approve of half­ matter very much whether it is housed in a trained doctors, as they are turned out in good building so long as the spirit of the man some parts of the world. I do not approve who wishes to conduct the research is allowed of half-trained dental technicians, half-trained to roam freely. optometrists or any other half-trained pro­ I believe we must learn a lesson from the fessional men. It is important that we Red Cross organisation. If we wish to have maintain a specific standard, and in no cir­ research institutes in our community perfom1- cumstances should we lower that standard ing first-class work, they must be autonomous for political expediency or any other reason. and in no circumstances stultified by someone The standard for the quality of blood that in a central bureaucratic establishment telling is used in the community must remain the them how to run their organisation. present standard. In no circumstances must So there are lessons to be learned from the that standard be depreciated to allow for functioning of our Red Cross organisation. any other functioning which is perhaps in I believe we can congratulate the organisation no way directly related to this over-all idea on the excellence of the standard it has of the quality product. It is most important attained and on the community service it that the Bill should come before the Com­ gives. I trust it will go from strength to mittee for those reasons. strength in the future conducting this quality There is another matter that is relevant service with a minimum of Government to the activities of the Red Cross which interference. is worth mentioning briefly. I refer to the over-all aspect of research in the institution Mr. MARGINSON (Wolston) (7.37 p.m.): I will be very brief in my remarks. I have m.Jer the control of Dr. Shaw and in institu­ not always agreed with legislation that has tions involved with our public hospitals. been brought before this Committee by the Some very high-grade research has been Minister but, from what we have been told carried out under the auspices of the Red tonight, I feel sure that this Bill will have the Cross organisation. I believe this has been support of my colleagues. I definitely support successful because in the atmosphere of it at this stage because I believe, as the that institution it has been possible to con­ previous speaker said, that although it may duct research without any interference from not be necessary it should, nevertheless, be politicians or any other persons who wanted introduced in order to protect the people of to tell the doctors and young paramedical Queensland. The fact that there are people people in that organisation how they should in this world who will trade in the sale of carry out their research. human blood-no doubt for a profit-shows It is interesting to note that in totalitarian the necessity to prevent its happening in countries research is at a minimum in all Queensland where we have such an excellent circumstances. It is to be noted from service. tonight's news that the Russians are still not I agree with the honourable member for able to conduct successfully their latest space Ipswich, who told us that if people trade in experiment because, I suppose, somebody is blood or in anything of this nature voluntary breathing down their necks and telling them donors will withdraw their support. I think that they must do this or they must not the Minister also pointed this out. 464 Sale of Human Blood Bill [29 AUGUST 1974] Sale of Human Blood Bill

I express my thanks and appreciation­ unavailability of blood donors. We hate to in fact, my deep gratitude-to the blood see death at any time, let alone when it transfusion service. Although I was the could have been avoided. administrator of a hospital, I did not realise Blood donors are, in effect, life-savers, and the excellent work the service did and has it must not be forgotten that donations are continued to do. To be exact, 27 years ago given at virtually no cost to the .community. next Monday my wife and I were full of One thing that must be recognised by all appreciation when we received help from patients who receive blood in our hospitals this service for our son who was born with is that at the bottom of the bill they receive the Rh factor. He was brought to Brisbane when they leave the hospital, particularly if and had his blood totally withdrawn and they have been private patients, is a sub­ replaced with new blood. I understand he stantial charge for the blood they have was only the second patient in the State to received. If it came from mice or other have this done. It was rather fortunate for animals, as it does in some countries, the us that the attack on the Rh factor had been comment could be made, "Fair enough. This established, although it had not long been is the biological situation." However, when established at that time. To the doctors­ patients in this country receive blood, they Dr. Felix Arden and Dr. Fison at the Royal are charged substantially. Children's Hospital-and to the Blood Trans­ fusion Service my wife and I owe a lasting There is a potential pitfall. Its effect debt of gratitude. may be felt only in the long term, because at the moment, in this country, we have a For many years after I was apponted Vionderful blood service. It works very well. secretary to the local hospital board, the As yet there have been no problen:s, but hospital operated on a system of maintain­ they may arise in the future m this fi~ld ing a list of names and addresses of blood if the attitude of the Australian commumty, donors who had been categorised into their which I commend to the Committee, should respective blood groups. V/henever the need change. This Bill may create pitfalls, includ­ for blood arose, say, as the result of an ing the one I have in mind. emergency or an accident in the Ipswich area, donors in the appropriate blood group were Mr. HANSON (Port Curtis) (7.47 p.m.): sent for. I do not want to delay the Committee, but I wish to express my appreciation of the Over the years rapid progress has been wonderful work Dr. Shaw has carried out made in the State's blood transfusion ser­ over a great number of years. The service vices, and I give the Health Department as of the Brisbane blood bank has benefited well as those services full credit for the work many people of Queensland. Undo~bte~y that has been done in this field. On the Dr. Shaw and his staff deserve the admiratiOn Minister's outline of the Bill I assure him of every right-thinking Queenslander. that the Opposition appreciates its However, in recent days a matter has introduction. arisen that has troubled me somewhat. I am certain that it is troubling many citizens Mr. D'ARCY (Albert) (7.41 p.m.): The throughout the length and breadth of the Bill is a commendable one. Fortunately for country. It concerns recent events in the us, Australia has a wonderfully efficient donor State of New South Wales. A most unhappy system for the supply of blood for use in situation arose, causing considerable concern emergency and therefore, unlike some other within the New South Wales blood trans­ countries that have to rely on other sources, fusion service, which incidentally is con­ we almost never have a problem with a ducted under the auspices of the Red Cross. shortage of blood supplies. lt relates to the policy of the Red Cross on I do not think we realise how well off supplying information about a donor's blood Australia is compared with some other coun­ group. Of cours~, while. it !s mere~y Red tries in the supply of blood. It could Cross policy that mformatwn IS not divulged almost be said that in Australia blood is, as unless it is demanded by subpoena, the lay­ it were, a plentiful commodity, whereas other man gains no real comfort from i~. I ~m countries-many of which have hospitals certain the possibility of the informatiOn bemg of a much higher standard than those in made public would deter many people from Australia and certainly in Queensland­ entering into the spirit-the very commend­ suffer from vast shortages of blood. c.ble community spirit-of donating blood. As recently as 7 August a subpoena was I see one pitfall in the provisions outlined i-;sued from the Blacktown Court of Petty by the Minister. It is possible that eventually Sessions, outside Sydney, ordering the bloo.d our donor system will change in such a way bank to produce a donor's records. In his that blood donors will no longer be avail­ reply the Minister might give to !he House able. The outcome might be the very thing some information of the procedure m Queens­ the Bill is designed to prevent-that is, land under the relevant legislation. illegal trafficking in human blood. This possibility must cause concern in the minds Mr. W. D. Hewitl: Are you referring to of many people. I shudder to think what the person's grouping? might happen in the event of a disaster Mr. HANSON: I do not want to delay involving many persons, if our present the Committee. Later I will give to the system should change, with a resultant Minister the relevant details of what was Sale!of Human Blood Bill [29jAUGUST 1974} Sale of Human Blood Bill 465 demanded by subpoena from the Blacktown During his remarks, and also those of Court of Petty Sessions. However, I do not the honourable members for Kurilpa and think very many people would be interested Wavell, tributes were paid to the Director in such information. As a matter of fact, of the Blood Transfusion Service, Dr. Shaw. I am speaking of myself. Many years ago Mention was made of the fact that he is I gave a considerable amount of blood and a world figure. This may be an appropriate if I had the time I would be only too happy time to point out that Dr. Shaw is not to continue in the spirit of the service. I the only world figure that the Queensland would not like Government members to health services have produced, much approach me with their blunt needles. maligned as they are. Regrettably in this administration today a lot of blood is about to be let on that side We have, in the person of the radiation of the Chamber. It is absolutely scandalous physicist of the Health Department a man and shocking to see what is going on in who is right up at the top of world standing. both parties in the coalition-- He is a member of a very select committee that meets in Geneva, Paris and various The CHAIRMAN: Order! Would the hon­ other centres from time to time to specify ourable member come back to the provisions standards in relation to radioactivity. We under consideration by the Committee? have in the department a geriatrician who Government l'¥1embers interjected. has been called upon in recent times to read a paper at a world congress in Kiev in The CHAIRMAN: Order! the Soviet Union. We have at Chermside, Mr. HANSON: Thank you very much, in the person of Dr. O'Brien, a man who Mr. Lickiss. I like your protection but I is pre-eminent in the particular field of am being considerably provoked. heart surgery in which he specialises. We have outstanding scientists in the Queensland The CHAIRMAN: Order! The Chair Institute of Medical Research, to which the would like the honourable member to return honourable member for Wavell made refer­ to the provisions before the Committee. ence. Mr. HANSON: I raise that matter and Let me say in passing that the Queensland I hope that, in his second-reading speech, Institute of Medical Research has a world­ the Minister will give us some information wide reputation. It is the only institute of on the necessary procedure in that important medical research in this country that is matter. sustained by a State Health Department. No other State Health Department has anything Hon. S. D. TOOTH (Ashgrove-Minister comparable with it. It is most gratifying to for Health) (7.51 p.m.), in reply: May I say me personally that during my tenure of office to the honourable member for Port Curtis I have been able to initiate, and have com­ that no blood is likely to be wasted on menced, a building that will be a really this side of the Chamber. As to the other magnificent home for this institute. I shall matter he raised, I should be glad if he not see it in its completed state, but I shall would give me further details because I have the very great satisfaction of knowing must confess I could not get a very clear that I started it. It is now in the process of grasp of what he was talking about. erection in the grounds of the Royal Brisbane The debate generally has indicated that Hospital at a cost considerably in excess of honourable members are interested in the $1,000,000. activities of the Blood Transfusion Service, Mr. Jensen: Is it to be dedicated to you? which is supervised by the Red Cross and sustained by the State Government to the Mr. TOOm: I wish the honourable mem­ extent of 60 per cent of costs, the Federal ber for Bundaberg would allow me to Government to the extent of, now, 35 per proceed. cent and the Red Cross to the extent of 5 per cent. It is a co-operative effort in Mr. W. D. Hewitt: He's been getting a few which these three agencies have been able transfusions. That's his trouble. to work in harmony with very good results indeed. Mr. TOOTH: He needs to be careful; he could possibly pick up something other than I am grateful to the honourable member hepatitis from them. for Ipswich for giving a detailed exposition of the intricacies and complexities of the I want to pay a tribute to the Queensland various aspects of the Blood Transfusion Institute of Medical Research for the way in Service and of blood transfusion procedures. which over the years it has carried on out­ We are fortunate to have in this Assembly standing work in circumstances that are any­ an honourable member whose wide pro­ thing but desirable. Certainly it has done a fessional knowledge equips him to make such magnificent job in the old Army buildings in informed comments and to provide honour­ Victoria Park. able members with the sort of information they require on an occasion such as this. The honourable member for Kurilpa paid He has a wealth of valuable information a tribute to Dr. Shaw. I am grateful to him indeed. for doing so. 466 Sale of Human Blood Bill [29 AuGusT 1974] Bt.ilding Societies, &c., Bill

The honourable member for Wavell corn­ BUILDING SOCIETIES ACT mended the voluntary principle that is a AMENDMENT BILL feature of the work of the blood bank. I join with him in hoping that this principle can INITIATION IN COMMITTEE be sustained in as many areas as possible. (The Chairman of Committees, Mr. Lickiss, The contribution of the honourable member Mt. Coot-tha, in the chair) for Wolston, though brief, was well worth while, and I thank him for his comments. Hon. A. M. HODGES (Gympie-Minis­ ter for Works and Housing) (8.2 p.m.): I Mr. Lane: What about the honourable member for Nudgee? move- "That a Bill be introduced to amend Mr. TOOTH: The honourable member for the Building Societies Act 1886-1972 in Nudgee is absent, but let me say that I listened a certain particular." to his speech this afternoon on the public address system, and a greater collection of Honourable members are being asked to drivel, distortion and dishonesty I have never consider a Bill designed to enable building heard. It will give me great satisfaction to societies in the State to continue operations. take him apart later in this session. There is only one person comparable with him in Societies have functioned successfully des­ what he did today, and that is the honourable pite wars and depressions, with attendant member for Albert, who this evening made unemployment and seasonal difficulties. How­ some sort of a contribution to the debate, ever, inflation has proved an insuperable although he appeared to be somewhat hurdle, and one society has appealed for distraught. In his contribution this morning, legislative assistance to overcome its the honourable member for Albert deliber­ difficulties. ately misrepresented my responsibilities in the area for which he is the member. For many years the society has used a standard mortgage form which provided for Mr. D'ARCY: I rise to a point of order. a maximum repayment rate of 8 per cent I take exception to that remark. It has per annum. The society, realising that money nothing to do with the Bill. was becoming increasingly difficult to obtain, The CHAIRMAN: Order! There is no altered its rates in October 1973 to provide valid point of order. that the borrowing rates could be varied from time to time according to the prescribed Mr. TOOTH: The honourable member rate set by the Governor in Council. How­ should know that the problem in respect of ever, the variation which operated from which he brought in a crowd of school­ the registration of the rule in 1973 could children and a host of other people has not be applied to existing mortgages, and nothing to do with me, although he promoted the result is that at the moment some of the the idea that it was my responsibility. It is in fact the responsibility of the local auth­ society's mortgagees are still paying 8 per ority. He adopted a dishonest procedure, and cent per annum. he ought to be ashamed of himself. The society is currently paying 9! per cent Honourable Members interjected. for its money, and as the maximum lending rate is now 11 per cent, it is losing money on The CHAIRMAN: Order! I think the contracts entered into prior to the amend­ Minister should confine his remarks to the ment of its rules in 1973. So far it has present debate, not what happened in the been able to function by drawing on its House earlier today. reserves to absorb the higher rate now paid to investors, but it has now reached the stage Mr. TOOTH: Thank you, Mr. Lickiss. where it finds that it is impossible to con­ I have said all that I feel I should say. tinue. As honourable members will I must once more commend the honourable appreciate, in the present economic climate member for Port Curtis on his contribution. a forced liquidation would endanger all If he will provide me with information on the shareholders and borrowers alike, not only matter that he raised, in due course-- in this society but in all societies generally, and the Bill is designed to enable the society Mr. Hanson: All I want to know is simply to charge the interest rate currently pre­ this: will the records of the service become scribed for borrowers in building societies. an annexe of the Police Department? I think that, in the interests of all concerned, Mr. TOOTH: Not if I can help it. I the Government has acted responsibly and commend the Bill to the Committee. promptly to correct an intolerable situation. Motion (Mr. Tooth) agreed to. I am sure honourable members will agree that the Bill is necessary and that the Resolution reported. principles contained therein will enable a society which has conducted its business in FIRST READING a sound and responsible manner to continue to function. Bill presented and, on motion of Mr. Tooth, read a first time. I commend the Bill to the Committee. Building Societies Act [29 AUGUST 1974] Amendment Bill 467

Mr. NEWTON (Belmont) (8.4 p.m.): Mr. Mr. Lane interjected. Lickiss-- Mr. Lane: Now square off for the Federal Mr. NEWTON: For the information of Labor Government. the honourable members for Kurilpa and Merthyr, I built my home through the Mr. NEWTON: Away we go! The hon­ Toowoomba Permanent Building and Invest­ ourabl~ member for Merthyr is an expert ment Society, so I do believe in home-owner­ at trymg to provoke trouble. Honourable ship. I always have believed in home­ members on this side of the Chamber are ownership. Of course, I am bound by the easy; if the honourable member wishes to policy of my party which believes in low stay here all night, we will see that he does. deposits, low repayments and low rates of interest. While we realise the problem that is facing the society concerned, it clearly supports Labor members do not make any apology the VIews that have been expressed over recent for that, irrespective of what might be going months by many people about the desirability on in other spheres. On behalf of the ?f a ~xed rate of interest for building societies Australian Labor Party, Queensland Branch, m th1s State. To avoid going into liquidation let me state quite clearly that that is our societies similar to the one mentioned by policy. An:•one who listens on Sunday night the Minister tonight have also had to make approaches to the Government. will hear me say a lot more about it. That is the policy of the Queensland Branch of Members of the permanent building the Australian Labor Party. society movement that have to compete on !he open market say that they have to offer Without mentioning its name, the Minister mterest rates that will help them to main­ pointed out that a certain society has been !ain existing investors and encourage new operating in this State for close on 90 mvestors. years or maybe a bit longer. It has done a wonderful job and we on this side of Varying opinions are held as to whether the Chamber recognise that fact, as the or not there should be a rise-and-fall clause Minister did in his opening remarks. in respect of interest rates, as is provided for at the. moment under the Act covering the I have always had high praise for the ope_ratw~s of l?ermanent building societies. older permanent building societies in this It 1s qmte obvious that interest rates have State, as against those that have sprung up in a big bearing on home-ownership in this the last decade. These older societies have State. such a good name that they do not need to indulge in costly advertising and other Mr. Hughes: Do you think the interest rate is too high? forms of propaganda used by the societies that have sprung up in the last decade, to encourage people to invest with them. For Mr. NEWTON: It is not my intention to broaden the debate. The honourable mem­ the information of the smart person who ber for Merthyr has already challenged me. had a "crack" about the Trade Union Per­ I do not intend to take up the time of the manent Building Society, it does not need Committee by going over ground I have to advertise either because it gives the already covered. workers in all projects, and in the provincial cities and towns throughout the State, an Mr. Lane: Why don't you sit down then? opportunity, if they so desire, to invest their savings in a permanent building society. And Mr. NEWTON: I will sit down when I the Trade Union Society is competing with want to, not when the honourable member other permanent building societies; there tells me to. He may be used to doing is no argument about that. many things outside, but here we are pro­ I repeat that we appreciate the job that tected by the Chair. has been done by the older permanent build­ As ~ was saying, home-ownership is ing societies which have been in operation ~reatly mflue~ced b:~; the interest rates apply­ ever since the Act came into force in 1887. mg at a particular trme. Those in provincial cities have given people living in them an opportunity to invest their Mr. Lane: Your party is opposed to home­ funds and, in a number of cases, the opport­ ownership. unity has also been availed of by people liv­ ing in rural areas. In fact, they have been Mr. NEWTON: Here we go again! That some of the best supporters that these societies shows how much the honourable member for outside the metropolitan area have had. It is Merthyr really knows about what is going on. a well known fact that over the period of their operation, they have provided many If the people who purchased homes eight homes and they have not confined their oper­ or nine months ago had known what was ations to provincial city areas; they have going to happen wit~ interest rates, probably also assisted people on the land to obtain they would have waJted. their own homes, irrespective of the size of the area they wished to purchase. I had Mr. Hughes interjected. the privilege of renting one such property 468 Building Sucieties Act (29 AUGUST 1974] Amendment Bill

when the owner became an invalid and had The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN: Order! to leave it. I know that that was a very have already asked the honourable member good home constructed by a society. to come to order. I ask him now to respect UJY wishes. On behalf of the Opposition, let me say that it is not our intention to hinder the Mr. ALISON: Permanent building societies progress of an old established society that derive other income, of course, from life has done so much. No matter what has assurance and fire insurance. However, it been said on this question, we know that does not greatly increase their margin of 1t we, together with the Government, have a per cent. By comparison, banks operate on responsibility to pass this amendment. We a margin of 5 per cent and finance com­ have no desire to prevent the rules of this panies on margins in excess of 4! per cent. long-established society being brought into In other States building societies operate on line with those of other permanent building a greater margin, something of the order societies. We have no wish to hinder the of 1} per cent. progress of this society, which has a good name, nor do we wish to be a party to any One aspect that causes me grave concern action that might cause it to go into liquida­ is the amalgamation of permanent building tion. societies. Just as I am opposed to socialism so, wo, am I against the creation of mono­ The Opposition has no intention of oppos­ polies, and unfortunately the present trend ing the introduction of the Bill. If its pro­ in Queensland is for smaller permanent visions are as outlined by the Minister, I building societies to be gobbled up by the assure him of our support at all stages. larger ones.

Mr. ALISON (Maryborough) (8.16 p.m.): 1 An Opposition Member: What have you fully support this measure. Interest rates done about it? of permanent building societies pose quite a problem not only to the borrowers and Mr. ALJISON: What can we do about it? the investors but also to the members of If the Federal Government were to conduct the boards. The problem was brought about its economic affairs efficiently so that interest in the first place by the necessity for the rates could be brought down, the permanent State Government to allow building societies building societies could increase their margin to offer higher rates of interest than pre­ by one-quarter or even one-half per cent viously and, as a result, to increase the without imposing a burden on borrowers. I interest rates that they charged. do not see what can be done until we get some sanity in Canberra. Mr. Lee: All because of the Federal Government. While on the subject of permanent build­ ing societies, I believe it would be a good Mr. ALISON: That is quite right. The idea for our Minister, perhaps, to have a State Government h::d to face up to the look at the possibility of the State Govern­ facts of life in the financial world. Under ment Insurance Office conducting a mortgage the dis. strous economic and fiscal policy guarantee section. The rates charged for of the A.L.P. Federal Government, unless mortgage guarantee by the Housing Loans the State Government permitted building Insurance Corporation, which is a Federal societies to offer higher interest on deposits body, and the Mortgage Guarantee Corpor­ they would go out the back door. ation, which is a private body, are far too high. A perusal of the financial statements Mr. Lee: And quickly, too. of those corporations will reveal that their profits are excessive. I do not know why Mr. ALISON: Very quickly. The present the Federal Government does not do some­ high interest rates charged by building thing about this. societies on loans for houses-I understand they are at the level of 11 per cent-are For instance, in the financial statement a scandal, and the blame for this must lie of the Housing Loans Insurance Corporation at the door of the Federal Government. for the year 1973 it will be seen that the claims for the year under mortgage guar­ Building societies must be highly efficient antee insurance amounted to only $39,000, in their operations. At present they operate although the gross income was $1,800,000. on a margin of only H per cent. While The administration expenses of $515,000 they are paying n per cent to depositors, were more than covered by the income from at the same time they are charging 11 per investments. I believe, therefore, that it cent to borrowers. could be a step in the right direction if the Minister were to consider the possibility of Mr. Jensen: Why don't you talk some the State Government Insurance Office con­ sense? ducting mortgage guarantee insurance in an effort to reduce the high mortgage guarantee The TEMPORARY CHAIRMAN (Mr. rate. W. D. Hewitt): Order! Mr. Jensen: What would happen if some Mr. Jensen: Why doesn't he talk sense? of the building societies went broke? Building Societies Act [29 AuGUST 1974] Amendment Bill 469

Mr. ALISON: The honourable member their building society. In some circum­ should ask that question of Mr. Whitlam stances, the term of the loan is lengthened, to discover what he might be doing under but this is not possible in all cases. Conse­ the legislation he recently enacted. quently, great hardship is being suffered by a number of people. It might be interesting to mention the business conducted by the permanent build­ Mr. Jensen interjected. ing societies. The loans made by them in the 12 months ended February this year Mr. CASEY: We can go into arguments amounted to $220,000,000 (quite a large and refer to the fact, as the honourable amount in this State), compared with a figure member for Maryborough did, that \ hat is of $13,000,000 for the terminating societies. behind it is the high rate of interest being However, because of the mad fiscal policy charged. Nonetheless, it is a situation that we are being subjected to at the present time, exists and the State Government has to it is expected that in the current year the increase its housing activity considerably in loans advanced by the permanent building order to take the load off building societies societies will not reach 50 per cent of last a:1d the people who are suffering because year's figure. Owing to the current interest of the high interest rate. It is the ordinary rate, they cannot attract funds. working people of the State who are con­ fronted with this problem. Mr. CASEY (Mackay) (8.22 p.m.): I wish In many cases, people have been forced to raise a few matters about which the Com­ to sell. The paradox of it is that because mittee should be greatly concerned. I they cannot meet the repayment figure to realise that the Minister did not in fact name which they are committed with the building the building society concerned, though he society-and they may have been making repayments for a considerable number of was referring specifically to only one society years-they have been forced to buy a smaller when he introduced the measure. Knowing home and renegotiate another loan with the sooiety, I also appreciate that it is one exactly the same building society. They of the more authentic sooieties operating in have been squeezed out of a home in which Queensland. Some of the building societies they were satisfactorily and comfortably that have been established for a long period settled and into a smaller home because -since about 1886, when the original legis­ they need a roof over their heads. lation was enacted in this Parliament-have We must remember that currently the done an excellent job over the years in both interest that building societies are receiving the metropolitan and provincial areas by is not their only form of income. Many providing finance for housing. of these building societies have capitalised to a great extent on the negotiable certificates As the manipulative money market altered of deposit that major trading banks have in the last 20 years and the tendency was been offering in recent times. Building for finance to lean more towards the societies constitute an area of major income unofficial money market than the official and finance. It is much better for them money market, a considerable growth occurred to lend money to the major trading banl.;s in the number of building societies in the at 15 to 16 per cent on negotiable certi­ State and the volume of finance lent by them. ficates of deposit on the short-term money Consequently, there was a big change in the market than to lend it out for housing to role they played in financing the State's people of doubtful financial ability or in housing industry. The Minister said that a situation where they are finding difficulty the society he instanced has been working in borrowing funds for housing. to some extent on its reserves in order to keep itself going, because it had been tied to This must be considered. If we are a low interest rate. looking closely at building societies, we should be considering the over-all segments I suppose in the last six months nothing has of the Act, not one part of the Act that caused me more concern than the plight of wilJ help one building society get out of a great number of people who have come to the troubles it is in. my office to discuss the severe financial hard­ ships they are suffering as a result of the Almost without exception, building higher repayments they now have to meet on societies, particularly the major, State­ their housing loans as a result of the high wide building societies, are exerting on their interest rates of permanent building societies. borrowers strong pressure in the insurance I could quote example after example. No field. This can be classified as nothing doubt, other members, too, have had these but a racket. The insurance conference in experiences. It is a crying shame to see, as Queensland has lodged protests with the I did in one case, a couple with five children, Minister on this matter. I am very upset the husband working as a salesman in the about the way some building society offices difficult economic times, who found that are forcing insurance upon individuals they were unable to meet their house repay­ attempting to borrow money for a home. ments. They could not meet the terms and A person who went into a building society conditions that had been imposed as a in Brisbane to borrow $15,000 for a house result of the increase in interest rates by which was to cost $24,000-which means 470 Building Societies Act (29 AUGUST 1974) Amendment Bill

he had a substantial deposit-told the accommodation, and he does not become a society that he had insurance to the extent viable proposition to the building society of $62,000. It was made up of $15,000 because he cannot meet the double payments. whole of life, $1,000 endowment, $36,000 Th!s is forcing horae-buyers to go to spec temporary cover and $10,000 double indem­ builders and, in some cases, buy unsatisfactory nity. He -.,vas told that he would still be homes that are little better than butter-boxes, required to take out another policy for because they can move into them immedi­ $10,000, plus an additional $10,000 tem­ ately they sign their contracts with the porary cover, with the society. Is it a fair building society. deal for a borrower in Queensland to be I am disappointed to see that the Minister forced to do that when he had such high has done nothing to define and tie down insurance? Bowkett building societies. I have raised I shaH give an example to indicate why the problems presented by these societies some of these building societies are doing time and time again. With the present high this. They are taking away the sale of rates of interest being charged, those engaged in the operations of Bowkett building societies insurance from mu who are properly quali­ are on the greatest lurk of all time. That fied in this field and spend their lifetime is why such societies are paying high com­ speaking to clients in an effort to get the mission to salesmen. They provide an best possible deal for them. attractive area of additional income to building societies. I shall not give full Let me quote some examples. The first details of the operations of one particular is of a person who wants to borrow $18,000 office oi a building society in a provincial over a period of 30 years. He would be city that has another attractive lurk to assist forced to take out an insurance policy for in its costing-the S.P. bookie operates there! this amount and for this period of time. In insurance premiums over the 30 years, he I should like to see the Minister intro­ would have to outlay a total of approximately duce legislation that provides standard rules $1,700, or $56.40 yearly. After deductibility for the operation of building societies. The of premiums for taxation purposes is taken long-established ones would also like to see into account, the net cost to him of that such rules introduced. At present the Act insurance would be $987. The income to is open; building societies can do virtually the society in commission would be only what they like. In many instances they do $28. submit proposals to the Minister, but the For whole-of-life insurance and a tem­ position is far from satisfactory. porary reducing cover, which would be even In my opinion, such rules should also cover better for him, his outlay over 30 years the Bowkett societies, because I am aware of would be $2,889, or a premium of $96.30 at least one of the lurks in which such a year. After taking the taxation rebate societies are engaging at the moment. Many into consideration, the total outlay would fields are open for commission, and there is be $1,690, and at the end of the period he a fairly wide margin between the 3 per cent would collect a certain amount from the savings bank interest that most of them are insurance. The society would receive only paying and the 11 :!- per cent that they are $64 in commission. receiving from borrowers. That goes into their coffers. The Bowkett societies have On another type of insurance that building introduced rules under which people taking societies are trying to force upon borrowers, part in a savings scheme who suddenly find the society would collect $147 in commission that, for economic or other reasons, they wish on the same figures. In the first example that to opt out cannot get their money back. I gave, on an insurance cover that would They are tied to 50 per cent for a consider­ be sufficient to provide indemnity should able time, and if they scrap the scheme they anything happen to the borrower, the society receive only 75 per cent and the balance would receive only $28 in commission. Con­ remains in the scheme. They are told that the sequently, borrowers are being forced into money will be there if they wish to begin taking out insurance on which the society saving at any time in the future. However, receives $147 in commission. This is why they will not go back once they have become borrowers are being forced to take out dissatisfied. addition-:! and unnecessary insurance. I think that this is one matter that requires close The Minister is aware of the many ques­ attention. If the income of some societies tions I have raised with him previously, and presents a problem, J.et us look at some of I suggest again that he look very closely at the other aspects of their operations. the over-all problems of building societies and introduce a Bill to correct all the anom­ There is another matter that I should alies. The money market undoub1ediy is like the Minister to consider in these days being manipulated by some building societies. of high interest rates. Once a person enters and that is not in the best interests of into a contract with a builder to build a borrowers. home and negotiates a loan with a building society, he immediately has to start meeting Mr. AHERN (Landsborough) (8.37 p.m.): interest and redemption payments. At that I wish to speak briefly about the over-all time the borrower is probably in rental future of building societies in the economy Building Societies Act (29 AUGUST 1974] Amendment Bill 471

in the light of what is happening in the at the interest position again. Hopefully Australian finance market. As a supporter of the interest structure within the Australian and contributor to building societies, it is a economy will wind down, but we are looking matter of concern to me, and I know that at an equity position here in relation to there is concern in the community generally building societies, and it is important that about what is happening on the Australian they maintain a strong position because so financial scene at present. much home-ownership in Queensland depends upon them. That is going to continue to Some dramatic changes made last year had be so in the future. a very substantial effect on the Australian finance market. Previously, trading banks The Commonwealth Government has now were restricted to a maximum of 6.5 per cent introduced the Financial Corporations Bill, on deposits; but the Reserve Bank quietly and it is very likely that it is going to changed that, and from September 1973 assume some extra controls in that area. onwards trading banks were free to make That concerns me, too, because I believe their own market for negotiable certificates of it is Federal Treasury policy that building deposit, to which the honourable member for societies have played too big a part in Mackay referred, above a mm1mum of the finance market in the past, and that an $50,000. This caused a series of cold shocks increasing amount in the housing finance through the Australian money market. It industry should be funded from within the changed dramatically the relationship between banking system. certain areas within the market, particularly the official and unofficial areas, and that is Mr. Newton interjected. of special concern to building societies. Mr. AHERN: I am merely expressing At the beginning, no-one in the building societies took much notice of the new free­ concern and hoping that as a result of rated N.C.D.'s, but since then their potential these two moves-the dramatic increase in has been realised. That was brought about the negotiable deposits and the introduction primarily by problems of liquidity in the of the Financial Corporations Bill-we will economy generally. The yield on the N.C.D.'s not see building societies in this State placed has been increasing continually and has been not in complete jeopardy but in a much the subject of Press comment from time to weaker position than they have occupied in time. Deposits have increased considerably the past. in recent days. The figures I have show that I am sure that all honourable members in November 1973, $463,000,000 was depos­ would have had young people come to ited in this way; in April this year deposits them complaining about our housing policies, had increased to $1,819 million. which have led to increases in land prices That is a tremendous amount of money in and in the general cost of housing. A this higher interest area, and during this time number of young people have been priced there has been a mad scramble for the out of home-ownership. Since I took out marginal deposits that have funded building my own loan in 1972, increasing interest societies over the years. There has been a rates have caused my repayments to rise tremendous war amongst people in the finance by 20 per cent. That is a dramatic increase industry who are chasing these deposits. The and one that is very hard to fund. I am game is not yet played out. It is my view sure that many people are in the same situa­ that the building societies' position has tion and are finding it very difficult. become weaker since that move was made. I cannot understand why some people say To my way of thinking it was quite the wrong that everyone is better off than they were time to make that move. It has left the banks in a much stronger position than they were 12 months ago. \Vages have gone up by before. It is quite possible that there are a certain percentage and costs by a little other ramifications to come out of this less, but taxation has increased by some­ dramatic change in Reserve Bank policy. thing like 30 per cent on an average income over that period. At the same time build­ My purpose in rising was to express ing society repayments, too, have gone up concern about this matter, and to ask the quite dramatically. Young people, with­ Minister to watch the position very closely. out exception, are out the back door in It is my belief that the building societies the last 12 months. They are finding it are in a much weaker position than they extremely hard to purchase their own homes were to attract the marginal deposits, which today, particularly in my electorate. That is their lifeblood. The deposits relate very is why I have asked the Minister to try directly to the amount of money they can to increase the contribution of the Queens­ fund to people who want to own their own land Housing Commission in this area. There homes. It is quite possible that the tremen­ is no doubt that we need to rethink our dous role that the permanent building soci­ over--all housing policies because increased eties have played in our economy here­ costs, interest rates and so on are pricing one thr,t we have been very proud to m_,ny young people out of the m:uket. It support publicly-will be in jeopardy in is time we rethou?ht the whole matter to the future. I hope the Minister will keep see if we cannot provide income-geared a close eye on the position. Unfortunately loans or some such type of assistance to it may well be that we will have to look young people in the early years of their 472 Police Superannuation Bill (29 AUGUST 1974] Police Superannuution Bill loan; otherwise our policy on home-owner­ The purpose of the Bill is to provide for ship, which has been most successful, will be a new scheme of superannuation for mem­ placed in jeopardy. bers of the Queensland Police Force. The present scheme is an excellent one but it Hon. A. M. HODGES (Gympie-Minister needs to be altered to suit the economic for Works and Housing) (8.46 p.m.), in conditions which now prevail. reply: I thank honourable members for their compliment in accepting the Bill as The present superannuation scheme is presented. As l said, it is an amendment based on the following main points- tq the Act in a certain particular. Several (A) It is a "unit" scheme. points about building societies generally were raised by the honourable members for (B) A member purchases, during his Mackay, Maryborough, Landsborough and or her service, units which are related to Belmont. Most are very good ones which his or her level of salary. I have discussed from time to time with my (C) The member pays contibutions advisory committee, which comprises very which. with accru:ls of interest, will pro­ capable officers. The building societies' vide 35 per cent of the cost of benefits to movement from which they were drawn him or her from the fund. has displayed exceptionally good manage­ (D) The member's maximum benefit ment and has contributed much towards is 60 per cent of final salary for contri­ housing in rhi'i State. At present, ·.ve are butors with moderate or high salaries who going through a very delicate period. effect all available units of benefit, with a widow's benefit of five-eighths of his The point made by the honourable member pension. There are also appropriate for Mackay about insurance is something benefi 'i for children. that I whokheartedly agree has to be watched very l have issued s~veral warnings (E) Annual benefits on retirement to crle or o of the societies for carryjng increase at the rate of 3 per cent simple out a practice which does not meet with during their currency. my concurrence. The majority of the (F) The member's pension can be societies are meeting my requirements in converted wholly or in part to a cash this area, but I have received one or two payment at his option, with certain restrict­ complaints about certain societies regardin.; ions. insurance. I have informed them that ;f The State Service Superannuation Act of they do not abide by the decisions and 1972 followed the setting-up by the Govern­ edicts which have been issued by the registrar ment of a committee to examine superannua­ and me, I will have no hesitation in immedi­ tion benefits for members of the Public ately amending the Act to ensure that they Service, in an endeavour to keep that scheme come into line in this regard. one of the best in Australia. That Act con­ The majority of the societies are playing siderably improved the benefits payable to the game in the matters that have been Crown employees covered by the Act and raised here this evening. As I said, the their dependants. Bill has been introduced to allow the rules An approach was subsequently made by of a certain society to be amended. I again the Queensland Police Union of Employees thank honourable members for the manner to hQve similar improved benefits applied to in which they have received it. members of the Queensland Police Force. Motion (Mr. Hodges) agreed to. The Government decided that a special com­ mittee comprising Mr. J. G. Rutherford, Resolution reported. State Actuary (also Insurance Commis­ sioner); Mr. L. A. Hielscher, Deputy Under FIRST READING Treasurer; Mr. W. C. Gataker, Chief Admin­ istration Officer, Department of the Public Bill presented and, on motinn of Mr. Service Board (who had previously been Hodges, read a first time. Manager of the Public Service Superannua­ tion Fund); and Mr. J. A. Casey, Manager, Police Superannuation Fund, also Secretary, POLICE SUPERANNUATION BILL Office of the Commissioner of Police, should examine the ramifications of the proposal INITIATION IN COMMITTEE in relation to the police superannuation (The Chairman of Committees, Mr. Lickiss, scheme. Mt. Coot-tha, in the chair) The special committee's report has been examined by the Government and its Hon. A. M. .HODGES (Gympie-Minis­ recommendations accepted. This Bill embodies ter for Works and Housing) (8.50 p.m.): I rhe new proposals which were recommended. move- "That a Bill be introduced relating to As in the case of the Public Service the provision of superannuation benefits scheme, which was amended in 1972, the for members of the Police Force, to make po:ice superannuation scheme is based on a provision for the families of those mem­ "unit" system, which tends to break down bers, and for other purposes." under the stress of currency inflation. Older Police Superannuation Bill (29 AUGUST 1974) Police Superannuation Bill 473 contributors find it more and more difficult cent of final salary for contributors with to finance additional units of benefit which moderate or high salaries who effect all become available as their salaries increase. available units of benefit. They are finding that salary increases (b) Children's allowances are 33t per which are intended to offset rising costs of cent higher. living are hardly sufficient, or are even (c) ~·.1ale rates of contribution will be insufficient, to finance the related increases fixed at 2 per cent of salary up to age in income taxation and superannuation con­ 20, 7t per cent of salary at ages 20 to tributions. 24 last birthday, 8 per cent of salary at ages 25 to 34 last birthday, and 8t per The situation faced by members of the cent of salary at age 35 last birthday and Police Force will eventually be more difficult over. This eliminates the existing diffi­ than that which faced public servants, culty of financing units of benefit at the because their rates of contributions, being highest ages. Female rates are 1 per cent based on an age 60 retirement, tend to be lower, with the exception of the rate higher than those under the age-65-retire­ applicable up to age 20. ment basis for public servants. These contribution rates are 2 per cent above The committee has recommended that the the State S·~rvice superannuation scheme rates police superannuation scheme be amended and this is a consequence of the substantial in the same direction as the State Service diFerence in the cost of providing pensions superac-muation scheme, subject to such at ~1ge 60 for members of the Police Force modifications as are required to take account and at age 65 for members of the Public of the differing conditions of employment Service. of police officers and public servants. As in the case of the Public Service scheme, It is important to note that as far as benefits will be based upon final salary and the present member is concerned, the length of service and contributions as a increased benefits and contribution rates apply fixed percentage of salary in place of the only to the improvement of salary between .. unit" system. 1 January 1975 and the date of retirement . In the case of a new member, it will apply, The proposals broadly are-firstly, con­ of course, for the whole of his or her tributions and benefits will be frozen at service. present levels. Every member will continue present contributions and will be entitled to The Bill provides for formulae for cal­ all the present benefits pertaining to those culations of benefit under the different cir­ contributions, with one exception. That excep­ cumstances which would apply in individual tion is that, where an older member whose cases. The main points are- age for retirement is 60 years is contributing Benefits are based on length of service at a rate in excess of 15 per cent of salary, and final salary, and or where a member whose age for retirement Maximum benefits will be payable to is 65 years is contributing at a rate in excess those with 40 years or more of service of 13 per cent of salary, the Goverrunent at age 60 when the pension will be will subsidise the excess to the extent of 120/160 of the average final salary. A one-third. The rate of contribution in these factor of 3/160 has been used, producing cases is assessed as if the member had taken 120/160 or 3/4 after 40 years' service all his present units as they fell due during his from ages 20 to 60, corresponding to the career. State Service superannuation scheme's Secondly, those members who have not 45/60 or 3/4 after 45 years' service from taken up all that they are entitled to at ages 20 to 65. present will have a further six months' option The Bill also provides for a member who to do so. joins the Police Force after age 20 (and thus would be unable to build up 40 years' Thirdly, as from 1 January 1975, a new service) to opt to contribute at a proportion­ scheme wili be introduced, providing for ately greater rate throughout his or her contributions to be based on all future career in order to qualify for the maximum increases in salary for present members, and benefit rate of 120/160. for total salary of all new members. Benefits will be based on "final average increase in The commutation conditions and benefits salary" or "final average salary and length are preserved for the old scheme and con­ of service". Compared to the existing police tinued for the new scheme. superannuation scheme, the proposed new scheme is especially advantageous to future All existing benefits are preserved. The entrants in the following ways:- widow's pension at 5/8 that of the member's is retained, and substantial increases of 33t (c.) Maximum pensions of 75 per cent per cent have been provided in children's of average salary during the final three benefits. years of service will be available. This is equivalent to about 68 per cent of final The State Service Superannuation Act salary in times of normal currency infla­ 1972 and the Public Service Superannuation tion, compared with an existing 60 per Act 1958-1972 were recently amended to 474 Police Superannuation Bill [29 AUGUST 1974] Police Superannuation Bill

provide for improvements to the State Ser­ The State Actuary has advised that, to vice superannuation scheme. Where those meet the increased benefits payable under the amendments are applicable to members of new scheme, it would be necessary to raise the the Police Force, they have been incor­ rate of interest paid on the Police Superan­ porated in this Bill. The improvements are- nuation Fund out of Consolidated Revenue 1. The previous annual increment in from 5! per cent to an average rate of pensions payable to beneficiaries of 3 6 per cent per annum and increasing the rate per cent is increased to 6 per cent from of Government subsidy payable on future 1973-74 up to 30 June 1974. benefits under the new scheme from 65 per cent to 71.4 per cent or 5/7ths as is the case 2. The annual increases in pensions with the State Service scheme. payable after 1 July 1974 are based on the movement of the Consumer Price As the scheme ties benefits to unknown Index for the previous 12 months. future salary levels and provides cost-of-living adjustments to pensions after retirement, the 3. Members of the Police Force who basis of finance may require adjustment as are re-employed after retirement may regards either or both of personal rates of receive both their salary and their full contribution and Crown subsidies, in the light amount of superannuation benefit. of the result of future actuarial valuations. 4. Children of deceased female con­ It is proposed that the next actuarial valua­ tributors to the fund who were the sole tion take place as at 30 June next. Such support of their children, will receive the calculations as the State Actuary has been prescribed allowance. able to make indicate that an additional subsidy cost of the order of $850,000 per The former 3 per cent annual increase was annum will be required. considered to be inadequate and as in the case of the Public Service, an additional The present Police Superannuation Board special increase of 3 per cent is payable as will continue to be the direct administrative from the first pay period after 1 January 1974 authority for the new scheme and the Crown for those persons who were receiving a will continue to pay the administrative costs pension at 30 June 1973. In cases where of the scheme under this Bill. those beneficiaries were due for the prescribed 3 per cent increase before 1 July 197 4, this The adoption of the new scheme will con­ Bill provides that they are to receive that siderably improve the benefits payable to increase also when it falls due. members of the Police Force and their dependants. It will tend to counter the diffi­ After 1 July 1974, the variation will be culties of currency inflation and help the set each year in accordance with the move­ older contributors to finance additional ment in the Consumer Price Index for the benefits which result from salary increases. previous 12-monthly period. In future, this annual variation will be payable as from I commend the motion to the Committee. 1 October each year, as by then the move­ ment from the previous financial year will be Mr. NEWTON (Belmont) (9.4 p.m.): The known. Opposition always looks for uniformity and The provision for full superannuation simplicity in superannuation schemes. Apart benefits to be paid in addition to salary to from the State Service superannuation scheme former members of the force who are which was mentioned by the Minister there re-employed after becoming entitled to is the teachers' superannuation scheme and annuity benefit, removes a restriction presently many other Government schemes. The only in the police superannuation scheme on differ.ence is that these schemes have been annuity benefit payable to a person who is able to pay their way. re-employed after becoming entitled to super­ This is the fourth attempt that the Gov­ annuation. The benefit is now reduced by the ernment has made since its election to office amount of the Government subsidy portion in 1957 to produce an improved super­ of that benefit. annuation scheme for the Police Force. The It is considered in relation to the police first attempt was made in 1959, which was superannuation scheme, as it was in relation before I entered Parliament, and what was to the Public Service scheme and the provided on that occasion continued until parliamentary contributory superannuation 1968, when Mr. Jack Pizzey, as Premier scheme, that an entitlement which accmes to and Minister in charge of the Police Force, an officer by what is virtually a contract indicated quite clearly that he would endeav­ attached to a particular position should not our to introduce a superannuation scheme be affected by re-employment under a new for the Police Force independent of the arrangement or contract.. Police Act. That was the beginning of a police superannuation scheme that was based The Bill provides for an extension of on the Public Service superannuation scheme assurance benefit provisions, now payable in this State. only to the children of deceased male con­ tributors, to female contributors who, at the At that time, it was promised that the time of death, were the sole support of the scheme would be reviewed by the actuary children. This will not involve the contribu­ within a period of five years to see how tors concerned in any additional contribution. it was operating. It is true that problems Police Superannuation Bill (29 AuGUST 1974] Police Superannuation Bill 475 arose early in its operation, because in 1970 The only thing in the report that really the scheme came back to the Parliament surprises me is that none of the money for amendment. It had caused great concern has been invested in Brisbane City Council to some members of the Police Force loans. I do not know why it has not, because of the increased number of units because I think the Brisbane City Council that had to be taken out, and it placed a transports more police free on its buses very heavy burden on members over 45 than any other local authority in the State. years of age. Of course, it also provided some improvements. If my memory serves Returning to the proposed Bill, I make me right, it provided for commutation of it clear that members of the Police Force units on retirement. want a scheme that is simpler for them to understand. They knew that the actuary The 1968 legislation was introduced by was going to review the existing scheme, the present Treasurer, Sir Gordon Chalk, and and an approach was made to the Minister the second reading and Committee stages were handled by the present Premier. The last year for optional retirement after 30 5! per cent of salary was not altered; it years of service or upon reaching the age was the basis on which units had to be of 55 years. I thought that the Minister taken out to become part of the new might have mentioned that in his introductory scheme being introduced in 1968. I think speech. the contribution was about 5~· per cent of salary for a person starting in the Police Mr. Hol.lges: It would cost a lot more. Force with about 20 units. As his salary increased, he had to take out more units. Mr. NEWTON: That is understandable. The Minister mentioned earlier in the debate From speaking to members of the Police that the retiring age under the police super­ Force, particularly executive members of the annuation scheme is now 60 years, as Police Union, it seems that what we have compared with 65 years in virtually every been told tonight is in line with what they other State superannuation scheme. want. However, they did not seem to know very much about it in discussions that I Mr. Hodges: It is costing them 2 per and some of my colleagues have had with cent for that retirement. them. They were not able to tell us just what they felt would be included in this Mr. NEWTON: The honourable gentle­ legislation. They indicated that they felt man mentioned that earlier tonight. that there would be a new scheme altogether, and that there would be a cut-off period Members of the Police Force and the under the present scheme. As I understood executive of the Police Union will be quite the Minister, that is what he said in his happy about the proposals outlined by the introductory speech. Minister. Their main concern, in my opinion, The point I make is that members of would be about how people who were, say, the Police Force have indicated quite clearly 10 years below retiring age would be affected that, instead of a unit scheme, they wish by the new superannuation scheme. A similar to have a scheme under which they will problem arose in 1970, and provision was know exactly what their contribution is made for those who wished to do so to take every fortnight. It will then be much easier out additional units. No doubt some of for them to calculate their superannuation them could afford to take out additional payments. units. Mr. Hodges: Years ago we wanted them Mr. Hodges: They would go into debt to to come into the State Public Service super­ do it. annuation scheme, but they wanted one of their own. Mr. NEWTON: That is what I said at the time, and evidently some did that. Mr. NEWTON: A number of different Ministers, including the present Treasurer, Probably they would get a better lump­ have referred to the fact that the annual sum payment by taking out the extra units. report of the Police Superannuation Fund shows how much the fund has benefited Mr. HGdges: Retired personnel are bene­ from payments from Consolidated Revenue. ficiaries under the Bill. They are taken care In my opinion, no other Government super­ of very well. annuation scheme has benefited to such an extent. For example, last year contributions Mr. NEWTON: That is right. We by members amounted to $1,600,000, and checked to see what effect a new scheme an additional $3,300,000 had to be put into would have on the serving members of the the fund from Consolidated Revenue to Police Force. That is why I asked a question make it actuarially sound. There was the the other day about the present strength of the usual transfer from the Police Reward Fund, force. When we take into consideration and also redemption of investments. The the various age groups of serving personnel it back page of the report shows a credit of would seem that the new scheme to be intro­ about $1,000,000. duced from 1 January 1975 will be of 476 Police Superannuation Bill (29 AUGUST 1974] Police Superannuation Bill

advantage to a big percentage of persons in recent years it was possible to obtain presently serving and those joining the Police a greater payment at the time of retirement Force in the future. if the contributor bought extra units just prior to his retirement and, as a result, Mr. Hodges: More so to them than the older ones. many police are paying well over 50 per cent of their salary to pay off loans. Some Mr. NEWTON: That is true. Possibly of them have, in fact, obtained loans from the biggest argument we had about the finance companies and banks in order to legislation the last time the superannuation pmchase extra units so that they can cash scheme was being amended in 1970 was them at the time of retirement at a healthy about the flow on of the 3 per cent. The profit. But having to do so in order to Police Union executive had been promised ensure reasonable comfort for themselves and more information by the Premier when he ':,hat family they have left when they reach was Minister in charge of Police. He gave the retiring age of 60 brings hardship to an assurance that the extra 3 per cent that serving police in their later years. had been given to public servants would Anyone who has any association with the be applied to the police superannuation Police Force and any knowledge of the scheme, but provision for that was not made existing scheme will have nothing but praise in the legislation on that occasion. From for this new scheme which does away with what the Minister said tonight, I gather that the dreadful anomalies that no\o: exist in they will now get the 3 per cent. respect of the late purchase of units. Mr. Hodges: Up to 1 July 1974. From I believe, and I always have done, that then on it is the Consumer Price Index. one of the basic requirements of any Public Mr. NEWTON: That is another very good Service, which acts on behalf of the public point. I did note that. at large, is to ensure security to its members both during their time in office and in their Mr. Hodges: We are lifting their base retirement. This has the effect of enabling rate by another 3 per cent, to 6 per cent, them to do their job during their time of and from then on it is on the Consumer service without having to worry about the Price Index. favour or the ill-will of their superiors or of the community. Mr. NEWTON: Yes. Today we hear so much about increased prices. I know how All ~ections of the Public Service at times prices are rising because I shop every Friday suffer some public displeasure but probably with my wife. Milk and bread are going the Police Force suffers most because it up. It makes one wonder how in the past is required to act on behalf of the com­ people have been able to exist on the 3 per munity as a whole to perform some of the cent increase. I am sure that what is pro­ less popular administrative functions and to posed will be of valuable assistance. What enforce some of the less popular laws that I have heard tonight seems to be a big are so necessary in today's complicated improvement on the police superannuation society. These employees, both public ser­ scheme since it was taken out of the Police vants and police, must be given a real feel­ Act in 1968. Evidently the Bill is being ing of security in their job while perform­ introduced now before the introduction of ing their duties. This must be guaranteed the State Budget because a considerable amount of money would have to be paid in to them by the public they serve, through by the Government to cover the new scheme. this Parliament. (Time expired.) Similarly, they must have a sense of security about their retirement. They must Mr. LANE ~Merthyr) (9.19 p.m.): I rise feel that they can act on behalf of the merely to say how interested I was in the public during their time of service and be Minister's comments about the details of the able to retire without having to curry favour Bill and to praise the superannuation scheme anywhere in the community in order to as a whole. h is one that has been desired maintain a reasonably respectable way of for many years by members of the Police life. Just as judges of our courts are paid Force who had a full knowledge for a long high salaries to guarantee that they are time that the e~isting unit scheme was not beyond the touch of graft, corruption or workable. favour from any section of the community, the police must have their security guaran­ This scheme is a very good one. On the teed, too. This Bill seems to recognise that study I have been able to make of it, it basic fact and the necessity to adopt this seems to cater for all sections of the Police philosophical approach towards the civil Foroe, including both new intakes and those service at large. who have already gone into retirement. The architects of the scheme are to be praised for In the Minister's remarks I notice that this approach. Indeed, the Minister is to the contributions that police will be required be complimented for bringing it forward at to make will be 2 per cent above those made this time. As I said, the previous unit scheme by public servants under their scheme. He suffered from a number of anomalies. explained that this extra rate has been Police Superannuation Bill [29 AUGUST 1974) Police Superannuation Bill 477 imposed because of the earlier retiring age understand that public servants and police of police. With the exception of the Com­ officers will likewise have their pensions cal­ missioner, police retire at the age of 60 culated in accordance with the Consumer years while public servants retire at 65 Price Index, in effect 12 months behind time. years of age. So I think this will be Honourable members accept that policy, and accepted quite readily by the police rank and r am sure that police officers will also accept file when they become aware of it. it. The pension that ·will be received at police In these days of galloping inflation the retiring age is, 1 understand, something like only thing to which a scheme of this kind can be tied is something that moves with three-quarters of the salary that the ot1icer the cost of living-such as the Consumer would be receiving at the time of retirement, Price Index. That fact is recognised in the calculated on the average salary during the Bill. last three years of service. lt think it is a very good one. This provision is cer­ I was disappointed to hear the honourable tainly better that the one under which police member for Belmont say that he has had officers sutiered in years gone by. recent discussions with the executive of the Police Union on the scheme. I joined the Whilst we heard the pontificating and Police Union at the age of 15! years, and "particulars" presented in such a "particular" was a member for over 20 years. In 1952 fashion by the "particular" shadow Minister, at the age of 16 years I attended a Police the honourable member for Belmont, we Union mass rally on the fourth floor of the must recognise that it was under a Labor Trades Hall at which strike action was administration and the old and iniquitous discussed. At that meeting authority was pension scheme that the police officer upon given by those present to the executive to retirement was thrown out onto the street with nothing more than a pittance to sustain call a strike of all police officers in this State. him. Just as the Labor Governments used Only one member dissented-and it was not public servants and then discarded them so, me. It was something that was unheard too, did they use the members of the Police of in Queensland's police history. The Force. Queensland Police Force has quite a proud history tied to the pioneering and develop­ The commutation conditions and benefits ment of Queensland. The dispute that raged are to be preserved in the new scheme. ln this sophisticated day and age a number at that time did not lead to a strike. In of police officers do not depend solely on retrospect, I am pleased that it did not. their salaries for their livelihood. Bv wise investment over the years, whether in real Mr. Newton: Good Government; that's estate, stocks and shares or in some other why. field, they have managed to supplement their income. Others, after as long as 40 years' Mr. LANE: That is a very interesting service in the Police Force, have gained comment from the Opposition spokesman. sufficient business knowledge to be able to He said "Good Government; that's why," put their money to the best use, in a business implying that that was why there wasn't a sense, on their retirement. It is only proper strike. Mr. Lickiss, the strike almost that those who wish to commute their benefits came about for exactly the opposite reason and invest the income derived therefrom as -bad Government. It almost eventuated they see fit be allowed to do so. In fact through the police union's objection to a number of police officers retired under political patronage and the political revenge previous schemes and, having commuted the that was inflicted at that time on the rank benefits to which they were entitled, invested and file of the Police Force. It is regretted the proceeds and carved out, as it were, a that such a body of disciplined men in a second career. In many instances they disciplined service should rear up on any engaged in a successful business career. occasion and talk strike-indeed, authorise strike action-against the Government I have a deep affection for the Retired because of blatant political bias. Two years Police Association, and I was pleased to ago I said I was sure that many younger learn that its members are to be catered for people in the community would not have in the new scheme. I am gratified to know believed that was possible. However, in that they will not be restricted to the 3 recent times we have had similar instances per cent increased benefits, as they are at of political patronage in the South and now the present, but will have for a period an it is ever so easy to believe. The honourable additional 3 per cent benefit to bring them member for Belmont, who has had a very up to scratch, as it were, and from a fixed short experience with the Police Force, would date will go onto the annual increase cal­ do well to think before he leaps in with culated on the Consumer Price Index. comments of that sort, because he is so wrong. It should be publicly noted that, as with the parliamentary salary scheme, the Con­ As I have said, I was a member of the sumer Price Index figures that are used in Police Union for 20 years. For almost all such a calculation are for the preceding 12 that time it was a union which fought months in the previous financial year. I without any bias one way or the other for 478 Police Superannuation Bill [29 AuGUST 1974) Police Superannuation Bill

its rank and file, wherever they stood. It I compliment the Minister on what seems showed no favouritism to any sector or any to me to be an excellent superannuation group within its ranks. scheme. He outlined it quite capably tonight. I am sure that all police who serve through­ Mr. Newton: Haven't you got your union out Queensland, from Thursday Island to ticket? Have you resigned from it? Coolangatta and from Urandangie to Charleville, will herald this as a great scheme Mr. LANE: Once again I am interested that will guarantee them some security and in the honourable member's interjection. As comfort in their well-deserved retirement. a matter of fact, I was excluded from its ranks when I was elected to this Chamber, Mr. N. F . .JONES (Everton) (9.36 p.m.): because by the rules of the union-and it 1 will be brief in my comments, and I will seemed to me at the time that it gave some not get away from the points outlined by people in the union some satisfaction, as I the Minister. I believe that the measure is was elected as a Liberal member-! was v:orth while and that most, if not all, mem­ excluded from continuing my membership. In bers of the Police Force should be quite fact, I approached the officials of the union pleased with the provisions of the Bill. and asked whether I could continue to pay I am glad that certain former members my dues and remain within its ranks, but of the Queensland Police Force will not be unfortunately the rules precluded my doing able to gain any real benefit from this Bill. that, after being a member for 20 years. I do not think they really desene it any­ way. I am referring, of course, to the Mr. Newton: We will give you a go. We honourable member for Merthyr-"Mr. 10 will accept you. per cent". Mr. LANE: Mr. Lickiss, l would not be Mr. LANE: I rise to a point of order. a member of the union that the honourable The nickname or reference the honourable member for Be!mont obviously holds a ticket member for Everton attempted to confer on in-the Building Workers' Industrial Union me again tonight is offensive to me. I ask or the Amalgamated Society of Carpenters that he withdraw it and apologise. and Joiners. The B.W.I.U. is directed by a Communist president, Hughie Hamilton, The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honourable who dictates to all the union's members in member for Everton will withdraw that this place. I will have no part of such an remark. organisation. Mr. N. F. JONES: I withdraw, Mr. There is a matter of disappointment I wish Lickiss. I meant to say "Mr. 5 per cent." to raise, although I shall do it in a kindly way, because I have some very good friends The CHAIRMAN: Order! The honour­ in the Police Union even today. I know able member is now taking a rise out of that, just as I am, they are a little dis­ the Chair. I asked him to withdraw the appointed about the political bias that has statement. He will now resume his seat. crept in amongst some of the officials of that union-a political bias that has never been Hon. A. M. HODGES (Gympie--Minister present in the ranks of the Police Force as for Works and Housing) (9.38 p.m.), in reply: it never should be; a political bias which I thank honourable members for the manner has no place in any disciplined organisation· in which they have accepted the Bill as a political bias that was never reflected in th~ presented. There is nothing on which I ranks of the police union, until recently when need comment. there has been evidence of it. No section of our community is more deserving of a good superannuation scheme The CHAIRMAN: Order! I hope the hon­ than members of the Queensland Police ourable member will not develop this beyond Force. These men and women have dedi­ the superannuation side of the Police Force. cated their lives to our protection and to This is a Bill about superannuation. It is not the welfare of Queensland as well as to a Bill about the Police Force generally. the maintenance of a way of life free from anarchy and foreign ideologies. They enable Mr. LANE: Yes, Mr. Lickiss. I would Queensland to advance and develop as the not dare to. most progressive State in the Commonwealth. The honourable member for Belmont men­ Because of this, the Bill provides for a tioned lengthy discussions that he and some superannuation scheme commensurate with their ability and what the Government recog­ of his Trades Hall colleagues from this Par­ nises is their worth to the State. li,an:ent ha.d with o~cial~ of the Queensland ~~lice Unwn executive m recent times. I Motion (Mr. Hodges) agreed to. fa~! . to see how there would be any kindred Resolution reported. ~pm1s there, but apparently there are. That Is what f am expressing disappointment about FIRST READING on t~is oc~asion. _I ~o !lot .wish to sully my spee~n tomght by maulgmg m personalities or Bill presented and. on motion of l\1 r. nammg anyone who might be concerned in Hodges, re?d a first time. these delibem,tions. The House adjourned :lt 9.40 p.m.