The SPEAKER ( Hon. Bronwyn Bishop ) took the chair at 10:00, made an acknowledgement of country and read prayers.
My concern is that we are going to this privatisation model and we will lose that long-term relationship we have developed with a provider that has got the facilities and the capital equipment to be able to provide for our needs.
… … …
… my experience with private providers is that they are short term. They win a contract and they are gone tomorrow.
… … …
For us to remain competitive, for a long-term goal, we need those foundation skills maintained in an entity like TAFE.
My experience over 17 years of running my own company is that private providers will do everything possible to get that course down the shortest amount of time. I can come in tomorrow and borrow someone else's course, but I will not deliver the quality that I would if it was my normal day-to-day job and I was doing over a large number of people and had the ability to upskill myself to deliver that training.
That the House take note of the report.
That the order of the day be referred to the Federation Chamber for debate.
Gambling Harm Reduction (Protecting Problem Gamblers and Other Measures) Bill 2014
That this bill be now read a second time.
Tax Laws Amendment (Tax Transparency) Bill 2014
Bill and explanatory memorandum presented by Mr Leigh.
Bill read a first time.
That this bill be now read a second time.
That this House:
(1) recognises that:
(a) the Australian Government will contribute $1.5 billion towards the completion of the western section (Stage Two) of Melbourne's East West Link;
(b) the commitment to Stage Two of the East West Link is in addition to the Commonwealth's $1.5 billion contribution towards the $6 to $8 billion Stage One section of the East West Link; and
(c) together, Stage One and Stage Two will create some 6,700 construction jobs which are so important for Melbourne, Geelong and south-west Victoria; and
(2) notes that the:
(a) East West Link is critical to:
(i) easing congestion on the West Gate Bridge and improving Geelong's transport links to Melbourne;
(ii) easing congestion on the Eastern Freeway and alleviating major traffic bottlenecks at Hoddle Street and Alexandra Parade; and
(iii) improving freight efficiency and connections for major industries in Melbourne's outer east, north and south east to the Port of Melbourne and international airports;
(b) East West Link will never happen under a Labor Government—state Labor opposes the project despite estimates that the cost of Melbourne's road congestion will grow to $5 billion per annum by 2021 and $7.2 billion by 2031, more than double current levels; and
(c) Victorian Leader of the Opposition has described the East West Link as a 'grand hoax' and has threatened to rip up any contracts that are signed in respect of the project and in doing so, has shown contempt for the people of Victoria.
We support a cross-city road link from the western suburbs to the Eastern Freeway. The consequences of doing nothing are negative and far-reaching. They will threaten Melbourne's future economic success and liveability. Substantial new investment is needed in the transport network to avoid these consequences and to support the changes taking place across Melbourne, including opening up new jobs and business opportunities across the city. Doing nothing therefore is not an option.
Mostly, there just aren't enough people wanting to go from a particular place to a particular destination at a particular time to justify any vehicle larger than a car, and cars need roads …
We are still in the process of assessing that project. We have not formed a final view on that.
That we're hitting milestones, that we're only making payments to states when they actually deliver the milestones, that they're not getting money in their bank account prior to milestones being delivered
You made that up … you were wrong …We are not going to this election with a plan …
You're not going to drive yourself out of a problem. Our view is that the answer is an effective, reliable public transport system. That's what's needed here—more investment in public transport.
Mr Hale says the 5.2 kilometre toll road is "the wrong priority and will not alleviate congestion across the city" and that the Napthine government is set to sign on to a project that will set Melbourne back for years.
"The evidence from cities around the world where real renewal has been achieved is public transport should be the primary focus," he said.
"For those of us who have been involved in major transport projects long enough, the lessons learnt, often the hard way, are that building more roads without investing in public transport is simply a recipe for inducing more vehicular travel." Mr Hale, no public transport purist, argues completing the "missing link" in the ring road between Greensborough and the Eastern Freeway would "make a lot of sense" because, unlike the East West Link, it would divert traffic from the inner suburbs.
A government that actually values our state's reputation and good name doesn't rip up contracts.'
I think a ream of Reflex paper would be worth more than those contracts.
(1) notes:
(a) with concern that family violence is an issue affecting members of all of our communities, but that not enough attention is given to it in public debate;
(b) that the impact of family violence upon our communities is devastating, especially given:
(i) intimate partner violence is responsible for more ill-health and premature death in women in Victoria under age 45 than high blood pressure, obesity and smoking; and
(ii) one in three women since their teenage years have been exposed to violence, one in five have been exposed to sexual violence, and one woman per week is killed by her partner or former partner;
(c) the importance of a bipartisan approach in addressing such a complex issue and support for addressing family violence by all Members of Parliament within the House; and
(d) with support the creation of the Parliamentarians Against Family Violence friendship group, and acknowledges the success of its launch event on 20 October; and
(2) makes all efforts to raise awareness of the family violence taking place in our communities.
Dental Benefits Legislation Amendment Bill 2014
Counter-Terrorism Legislation Amendment (Foreign Fighters) Bill 2014
Albury-Wodonga Development Corporation (Abolition) Bill 2014
Marine Safety (Domestic Commercial Vessel) National Law Amendment Bill 2014
Social Services and Other Legislation Amendment (2014 Budget Measures No. 6) Bill 2014
Australian Sports Anti-Doping Authority Amendment Bill 2014
Australian Education Amendment Bill 2014
Private Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. 1) 2014
Carbon Farming Initiative Amendment Bill 2014
That the amendments be agreed to.
That the question be put.
Australian Citizenship and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2014
Debate resumed on the motion:
That this bill be now read a second time.
The House divided. [13:03]
(The Deputy Speaker—Mr Vasta)
That this bill be now read a third time.
Crimes Legislation Amendment (Psychoactive Substances and Other Measures) Bill 2014
Cancer is one of those things you know is there and you hear stories everyday about people being diagnosed with cancer … but it is never something you think will ever affect you or your loved ones. Even through this whole fight, I still never thought it would ever come to the moment we were faced with.
That the resumption of the debate on the motion relating to the death of Senator Reginald Greive Withers be referred to the Federation Chamber.
That further statements on the motion be referred to the Federation Chamber.
No cuts to education, no cuts to health, no change to pensions, no change to the GST and no cuts to the ABC or SBS.
… no cuts to education, no cuts to health, no change to pensions, no change to the GST and no cuts to the ABC or SBS …
As a former Australian Trade Minister engaged in the negotiations for several years, I wholeheartedly welcome the agreement and congratulate the Government…
I particularly welcome the comprehensive nature of the agreement, the inclusion of the services sector and the tariff free access gained by the red meat sector which is a huge win for producers and exporters.
The agreement opens an unprecedented level of access for our key sectors into Chinese markets, builds on Australia’s existing strengths and opens new avenues for growth and job creation.
The agreement is an outstanding achievement. We could conceivably see a tripling in agricultural exports to China within the decade.
The agreement builds the architecture Australia needs to export financial services in the Asian century.
The agreement enables Australia to play to its strengths in international trade to secure maximum value for high value-add exports as well as commodities.
A much-awaited free trade agreement with China seals this year’s trade trifecta and has the potential to add tens of millions of dollars to the Australian wine industry’s export earnings.
If you look at the whole package; on the trade side, the investment side, I think this is genuinely a win-win for both sides.
Pockets of the ABC have been allowed to get too fat, flabby, wasteful and unaccountable.
The same efficiencies and workplace practices that are the norm in corporate Australia need to be front and centre at the ABC so that it remains a strong, independent voice that is both editorially robust and reflects who we are—a culturally, geographically and socio-economically diverse nation that doesn't believe anyone is entitled to a job for life at the taxpayer's expense.
That the House censures the Prime Minister—
That this House censures the Prime Minister for:
1) repeatedly and deliberately misleading the parliament and the Australian people by
a) promising no cuts to the ABC or SBS, but cutting over $500 million and at least 400 jobs from these organisations;
b) promising before the election no cuts to education, no cuts to health, but cutting $80 billion from schools and hospitals;
c) promising before the election no cuts to education, but cutting more than $5.8 billion from our universities, meaning Australian students will pay more than $100,000 for a degree;
d) promising before the election no cuts to health, but hitting every Australian with a GP tax every time they visit the doctor;
e) promising no changes to pensions, but cutting $450 million from pension indexation;
f) promising no change to the GST, but coercing states and territories to make the case for them;
g) promising to build submarines in Australia, but going back on this promise; and
h) promising no new or increased taxes, but ambushing the Australian people with a $2.2 billion petrol tax.
2) for his dishonest and unfair budget which is hurting Australians.
That this House censures the Prime Minister for:
1) repeatedly and deliberately misleading the parliament and the Australian people by:
a) promising no cuts to the ABC or SBS, but cutting over $500 million and at least 400 jobs from these organisations;
b) promising before the election no cuts to education, no cuts to health, but cutting $80 billion from schools and hospitals;
c) promising before the election no cuts to education, but cutting more than $5.8 billion from our universities, meaning Australian students will pay more than $100,000 for a degree;
d) promising before the election no cuts to health, but hitting every Australian with a GP tax every time they visit the doctor;
e) promising no changes to pensions, but cutting $450 million from pension indexation;
f) promising no change to the GST, but blackmailing states and territories to make the case for him;
g) promising to build submarines in Australia, but going back on this promise; and
h) promising no new or increased taxes, but ambushing the Australian people with a $2.2 billion petrol tax.
2) for his dishonest and unfair budget which is hurting Australians.
… no cuts to education, no cuts to health, no change to pensions, no change to the GST and no cuts to the ABC or SBS.
The House divided. [15:26]
(Deputy Speaker—Hon. Bruce Scott)
Auditor-General—Audit reports of 2014-2015—Performance audit—
No. 4—Second follow-up audit into the Australian Electoral Commission’s preparation for and conduct of Federal elections: Australian Electoral Commission.
No. 5—Annual compliance arrangements with large corporate taxpayers: Australian Taxation Office.
No. 6—Business continuity management: Civil Aviation Safety Authority; Department of Finance; Department of Social Services.
No. 3—Fraud control arrangements: Across Entities—Corrigendum.
No. 4—Second follow-up audit into the Australian Electoral Commission’s preparation for and conduct of Federal elections: Australian Electoral Commission—Corrigendum.
That this House resolves that the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Norfolk Island should convey the Motion and the Statement of a Matter of Public Importance as noted and printed to the Honourable Speaker of the House of Representatives in Canberra requesting that the Honourable Speaker bring it to the attention of Members of the House of Representatives:
That this House:
(1)Values the relationship that Norfolk Island has with the Commonwealth of Australia.
(2)Reaffirms its commitment to the Norfolk Island Government’s preferred model of territory self-governance.
(3)Calls on the Parliament of the Commonwealth of Australia that before voting on any bill to change the governance arrangements for Norfolk Island established by the Norfolk Island Act 1979 (Commonwealth) that the residents of Norfolk Island:
(a)be provided with details and facts as to any proposed changes; and
(b)be consulted to ensure a democratic and open and transparent say on the future model of governance for Norfolk Island.
MATTER OF PUBLIC IMPORTANCE
In accordance with Standing Order 81, I seek approval to propose a Matter of Public Importance at the next sitting of the Norfolk Island Legislative Assembly on Wednesday, 15 October 2014 in relation to the future model of governance for Norfolk Island.
This request is a result of the outcomes from a meeting held in Adelaide on Wednesday, 8 October 2014 with the Hon Jamie Briggs MP, Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development, who is the responsible Commonwealth Minister under the Norfolk Island Act 1979 —Lisle Snell, Chief Minister and Minister for Tourism.
That this House express its sadness at the passing today of former Australian Prime Minister, Hon Gough Whitlam AC QC aged 98.
That so much of the standing and sessional orders be suspended as would prevent Ms Plibersek speaking in reply to the ministerial statement for a period not exceeding five minutes.
Health and Other Services (Compensation) Care Charges (Amendment) Bill 2014
Aged Care and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2014
Crimes Legislation Amendment (Psychoactive Substances and Other Measures) Bill 2014
Mandatory sentencing laws are the antithesis of fairness and have no place in the Australian criminal justice system.
Mandatory sentencing reduces the incentive for offenders to plead guilty and can lead to an increased case load for the courts.
Studies of mandatory sentencing indicate that ‘discretion’ is not removed from the system; rather it is displaced often onto police and prosecutors, and significantly so in the area of charging and charge negotiation.
… untested chemical compounds which masquerade as illicit drugs but are presented as being legal analogues of those drugs.
These products can contain synthetic cannabinoids that are often described as 'research chemicals.' Research chemicals are experimental chemical that are not approved or human consumption. The vast majority of these chemicals have only been recently synthesized and little, if any, data exists currently about their side effects, adverse reactions, long-term damage or dependence potential. Most importantly there are no officially published safety data and almost nothing is known about their effects on humans.
These items should not, and will not be caught up in this regime.
Synthetic drugs are prevalent in the mining and transport industries, where workplace drug-testing had driven users to use synthetic substances that were very difficult to detect.
… in 2012 firearms were identified as being the type of weapon used in 25 per cent of homicides in Australia …
Persons who use NPS, and those who may be attracted to them, need to understand the risks as NPS are often more powerful than the drug types they are purported to mimic and little is known of their effects.
An Australian representative of licit retailers who sold NPS estimated the value of the "legal market" at $600 million in 2012 (Patton, 2013).
The large number of potential new psychoactive substances and their rate of appearance means that we cannot stay ahead of the market. This bill changes the dynamic. From now on, the government will be in front.
…the mandatory minimum sentence is not intended as a guide to the non-parole period, which in some cases may differ significantly from the head sentence.
(1) Schedule 1, item 1, page 6 (after line 33), after paragraph 320.2(2)(i), insert:
(ia) a plant or fungus, or an extract from a plant or fungus; or
(2) Schedule 6, page 39 (before line 3), before item 1, insert:
Anti ‑Money Laundering and Counter ‑Terrorism Financing Act 2006
1A Section 5 (after paragraph (s) of the definition of designated agency )
Insert:
(sa) the Independent Broad‑based Anti‑corruption Commission of Victoria; or
1B Section 5 (paragraph (t) of the definition of designated agency )
Repeal the paragraph, substitute:
(t) the Crime and Corruption Commission of Queensland; or
1C After paragraph 122(3)(g)
Insert:
(ga) if the entrusted investigating official is the Commissioner of Taxation or a taxation officer—the disclosure is:
(i) of information relating to a communication under section 43 or 45; and
(ii) for the purposes of, or in connection with, the performance of the entrusted investigating official's duties;
1D After subsection 122(3)
Insert:
(3A) Without limiting subparagraph (3)(ga)(ii), a disclosure for the purposes of, or in connection with, the performance of an entrusted investigating official's duties includes a disclosure of a kind mentioned in subsection 355‑50(2) in Schedule 1 to the Taxation Administration Act 1953 .
1E Application of amendments
The amendments made by items 1C and 1D apply to disclosures of information on or after the commencement of those items (whenever the information was given under section 49 of the Anti ‑Money Laundering and Counter ‑Terrorism Financing Act 2006 ).
(1) Schedule 2, item 14, page 16 (lines 17 to 24), omit the item.
(2) Schedule 2, item 18, page 21 (lines 13 to 18), omit section 361.5.
That this bill be now read a third time.
Intellectual Property Laws Amendment Bill 2014
(1) Clause 2, page 2 (after table item 3), insert:
(2) Page 22 (after line 12), after Schedule 2, insert:
Schedule 2A—Crown use
Patents Act 1990
1 Section 3 (list of definitions)
Insert "services".
2 At the end of section 163
Add:
(4) Without limiting subsection (1), the exploitation of an invention by or for the Commonwealth is taken to be for the services of the Commonwealth if the following process is followed:
(a) the Minister considers that the Commonwealth has tried for a reasonable period, but without success, to obtain from the nominated person or patentee, an authorisation to work the invention on reasonable terms;
(b) the Minister approves the proposed exploitation by instrument;
(c) at least 14 days before the exploitation starts, the Minister gives the nominated person or patentee:
(i) a copy of the instrument of approval; and
(ii) a copy of the statement of reasons for approving the exploitation.
Note: Section 25D of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901 sets out rules about the content of a statement of reasons.
(5) Without limiting subsection (1), the exploitation of an invention by or for a State is taken to be for the services of the State if the following process is followed:
(a) the Attorney-General of the State considers that the State has tried for a reasonable period, but without success, to obtain from the nominated person or patentee, an authorisation to work the invention on reasonable terms;
(b) the Attorney-General approves the proposed exploitation by instrument;
(c) at least 14 days before the exploitation starts, the Attorney-General gives the nominated person or patentee:
(i) a copy of the instrument of approval; and
(ii) a copy of the statement of reasons for approving the exploitation.
Note: Section 25D of the Acts Interpretation Act 1901 sets out rules about the content of a statement of reasons.
(6) In this section:
services :
(a) in relation to the exploitation of an invention by or for the Commonwealth, includes:
(i) a service that is primarily provided or funded by the Commonwealth; or
(ii) a service that is primarily provided or funded by the Commonwealth and one or more of the States; or
(iii) research that is primarily funded by the Commonwealth; or
(iv) research that is primarily funded by the Commonwealth and one or more of the States; and
(b) in relation to the exploitation of an invention by or for a State, includes:
(i) a service that is primarily provided or funded by the State; or
(ii) a service that is primarily provided or funded by the State and one or more of the other States or the Commonwealth; or
(iii) research that is primarily funded by the State; or
(iv) research that is primarily funded by the State and one or more of the other States or the Commonwealth.
3 Schedule 1
Insert:
services has the meaning given by subsection 163(6).
4 Application
The amendments made by this Schedule apply in relation to the exploitation of an invention by the Commonwealth or a State that starts, or is proposed to start, on or after the day this item commences.
5 Transitional—negotiations
If, before the commencement of this Schedule, the Commonwealth or a State has tried for a period, but without success, to obtain from a nominated person or patentee, an authorisation to work an invention on reasonable terms:
(a) in the case of the Commonwealth—the Minister must take that period into account in considering whether paragraph 163(4)(a) of the amended Act is satisfied in relation to the exploration of the invention; and
(b) in the case of the State—the Attorney-General of the State must take that period into account in considering whether paragraph 163(5)(a) of the amended Act is satisfied in relation to the exploration of the invention.
That this bill be now read a third time.
Crimes Legislation Amendment (Psychoactive Substances and Other Measures) Bill 2014
That business intervening before order of the day No. 10, government business, be postponed until a later hour this day.
Safety, Rehabilitation and Compensation Legislation Amendment Bill 2014
… the potential to lead to increased red tape, increased costs and reduced productivity resulting from duplication and overlap in the regulation of work health and safety arrangements.
… small businesses may not be in a position to absorb premium fluctuations from a reduced premium pool.
It is difficult to estimate how many employers would pursue an option to participate in the Comcare scheme but the potential consequence could be:
The potential impact of this amendment in cost savings to licensees and premium payers in claim costs or premiums is expected to be negligible as the cases under this provision are rare.
That [this] provision has in fact been a feature of the Commonwealth compensation laws right back to the first … Commonwealth Compensation Act 1912—Section 4(2) (b) of that Act.
We think there is great value in consistency when it has in fact been the [current] policy of the Commonwealth and remains the policy of every other jurisdiction.
The DEPUTY SPEAKER ( Hon. BC Scott ) took the chair at 10:30.
… guarantee job security for all hardworking public servants, with no forced redundancies. Restructuring will be managed through natural attrition, career advancement and training opportunities.
That this House:
(1) notes the:
(a) Government's 2014-15 budget contains the biggest ever cut to schools, leaving classrooms across the country $30 billion worse off over the next decade;
(b) Government has failed to fund the vital fifth and sixth years of the Gonski reforms and has opened the door to state and territory cuts by promising not to enforce their obligations under the Gonski agreements;
(c) Government has restricted school funding changes to the Consumer Price Index from 2018; and
(d) importance of equity and quality—for every child in every school—in improving student results and building a prosperous future; and
(2) calls on the Government to recognise the Commonwealth's role in funding schools by:
(a) keeping its commitment to honour the signed Gonski agreements; and
(b) reversing its $30 billion cut to schools.
… you can vote Liberal or Labor and you'll get exactly the same amount of funding for your school—
Schools in regional areas, as well as disadvantaged and Aboriginal students, will be the hardest hit.
including social and economic benefits; better child well-being and learning outcomes; more equitable outcomes and reduction of poverty; increased intergenerational social mobility; higher female labour market participation and gender equality; increased fertility rates; and better social and economic development for society at large.
A growing body of research recognises that ECEC—
brings a wide range of benefits, including social and economic benefits; better child well-being and learning outcomes; more equitable outcomes and reduction of poverty; increased intergenerational social mobility; higher female labour market participation and gender equality; increased fertility rates; and better social and economic development for society at large.
One in five children starting school—
is 'vulnerable' in one or more areas of development. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children the rate is double this, at 43 per cent. We know that early childhood education and care enhances child development and makes a significant difference to children's school readiness and performance in later life, particularly for disadvantaged children, if the services are of a high quality.
That this House:
(1) acknowledges that Marine National Park (Green) Zones as defined in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Zoning Plan 2003 serve to better protect the biodiversity within the Marine Park and help to ensure:
(a) the continued existence of the unique marine animals, plants and habitats that are found only in the Great Barrier Reef and provide additional protection for threatened species such as dugong and marine turtles;
(b) those industries that rely on the health of the Marine Park are able to continue, providing social and economic benefits to local communities and the wider economy;
(c) a diverse range of other benefits and values of the Marine Park, including recreational, cultural, educational and scientific values, are protected;
(d) that future generations are able to continue to use and enjoy the Marine Park;
(e) the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage values are protected; and
(f) the ecologically sustainable use of marine resources by traditional owners consistent with their traditional practices, are provided for;
(2) accepts that Marine National Park (Green) Zones can be beneficial in:
(a) protecting spawning areas and nursery grounds;
(b) minimising damage to important habitats;
(c) providing refuge for protected species, such as turtles and dugongs; only
(d) boosting species numbers, which helps the food web as a whole;
(e) increasing the abundance of fish; and
(f) building the resilience of the reef against threats such as climate change and water pollution;
(3) affirms the Native Title Act 1993 which recognises the right of certain traditional owners to hunt and gather in their sea country and that native title holders may undertake traditional use of marine resources;
(4) recognises that the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority is working with traditional owners for the protection of the Great Barrier Reef, by expanding the Traditional Use of the Marine Resources Agreement program and strengthening communications between local communities, managers and reef stakeholders;
(5) acknowledges the value of the Ranger Program in providing job opportunities for Indigenous people to care for their country, take on important skills, develop career pathways, protect dugongs and turtles and manage environmental threats stemming from feral animals, among other benefits;
(6) calls on the:
(a) Australian Labor Party and the Greens to pass the Environment Legislation Amendment Bill 2013 which will enable a tripling of penalties for those poaching turtles and/or dugongs; and
(b) relevant parties to work, as a priority, with traditional owners to progressively increase the protections afforded to threatened species, such as turtle and dugong, through traditional use marine resource agreements and other appropriate means, seeking to:
(i) where traditional rights under the Native Title Act 1993 apply, seek agreement with traditional owners to prohibit the capture and killing of any species from designated Green Zones within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park area;
(ii) continue to allow certain activities to take place with a permit, such as research and management programs for fauna and flora where they pose a threat to humans or the environment, as per existing regulations; and
(iii) introduce legislation to prohibit the taking of marine species, including seabirds, in designated Green Zones within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Area, where other efforts have proven to be inadequate;
(7) in the interest of supporting the policing of turtle and dugong product that is transported for commercial purposes, prohibit the movement of native species, taken under the Native Title Act 1993 outside the area in which it is caught; and
(8) recognises that these initiatives would complement a range of measures already being implemented under the Government's Turtle and Dugong Protection Plan and Community Management Plans, which will enhance the protection of marine turtles and dugongs in Far North Queensland and the Torres Strait.
… it's a huge hit—
and it's a hit at a time when we need more expertise and more capacity to deal with these issues …
Sometimes we had eight to 10 people working on climate change. Now you can't point to one who is entirely focused on climate change.
… no cuts to education, no cuts to health, no change to pensions, no change to the GST and no cuts to the ABC or SBS.
WHEN a fire tore through St Mary's Church in April of 1913, it left utter devastation in its wake.
So when the foundation stone was laid on January 18, 1914, it marked the "re-birth" of the church, as local identity and member of the church Bill Dougherty puts it.
"After the disaster in 1913, it was not only the Catholic community, but the whole community got together in what was a period of intense preparation and trauma, trying to find enough money to rebuild the church," Mr Dougherty said.
"Then hope was born again, with the laying of that stone."
Liz inspires us to be the best we can be. To act on disadvantage. To better contribute to our community. To seek a better insight into worlds and experiences unknown.
She lives every day of her life and—through the power of her personality—encourages us to do the same.
The deeply moving and intimate reflections revealed in this book provide us with a further insight into the extraordinary woman that is Liz Dawson—her observations on life and her confrontation with vision loss and terminal illness. The accounts—which are so vivid you can hear her voice—allow us to better understand what drives this woman of dignity, strength, courage, tenacity, intelligence, humour and vivacity.
And why I am honoured to call her my friend.
If you can kill an American or European infidel, especially the spiteful and filthy French, or an Australian, or a Canadian, or any other disbeliever from the infidel fighters, then rely upon God and kill them in any way possible.
The Islamic State group has made a fresh pitch to followers to carry out spontaneous. ... attacks against Australians and citizens of other 'crusader nations' ... to carry out spontaneous "lone wolf" attacks against Australians and citizens of other crusader nations.
Most significantly, it tells would-be jihadists to keep their plots small and their strategies simple, involving as few people as possible
At this point in the crusade against the same extent it is very important that attacks take place in every country that has entered into the alliance against the Islamic State, especially the US, UK, France, Australia and Germany.
Which of the following infrastructure projects were subject to a signed project agreement with the relevant state government as at 11.59pm on 30 June 2014:
(a) Westconnex Stage 1A, New South Wales (NSW)
(b) Westconnex Stage 1B, NSW
(c) Westconnex Stage 2, NSW
(d) Westconnex Stage 3, NSW
(e) East-West Link Stage 1, Victoria
(f) East-West Link Stage 2, Victoria
(g) Toowoomba Second Range Crossing, Queensland
(h) Cape York Regional Package, Queensland
(i) Bruce Highway Package, Queensland
(j) Perth Freight Link/Roe 8, Western Australia
(k) North-South Road—Darlington Interchange, South Australia
(l) Midland Highway, Tasmania, and
(m) Northern Territory Roads Package, Northern Territory.
and for each, what was the (i) title, and (ii) date, of the signed project agreement.
All States and Territories have agreed to the project schedules provided to them as part of the 2014-15 Budget process. The WestConnex, East-West Link and Toowoomba Second Range Crossing projects also have signed Memorandums of Understanding with their respective States.
(1) Is it a fact that $11.5 million was taken from the Building Multicultural Communities Program, as per Mid-year Economic and Fiscal Outlook on 12 December 2013; if so, where has it been redirected to.
(2) Has this figure increased since Estimates on 27 February 2014.
(1) Yes, $11.5 million was saved from the BMCP at the Mid-year Economic and Fiscal Outlook (MYEFO). The funding has not been redirected - it has been used to help repair the Budget debt and deficit disaster left by the former Government. The BMCP was a one year only programme for the 2013-14 financial year.
(2) No.
Since 20 March 2014, has Senator Arthur Sinodinos attended any meetings with Treasury or Department of Finance officials at which the (a) Treasurer, or (b) Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasurer, or (c) Minister for Finance, were also present; if so, (i) on what dates were these meetings held, and (ii) for what purpose.
Treasury officials have not attended any meetings since 20 March 2014 where Senator Sinodinos has been present.
Is the information in the annual compendium of crime statistics, Australian Crime: Facts & Figures: 2013, recorded by postcode and region; if so, what is the breakdown for the Northern Suburbs of Melbourne?
No. The statistics are derived on a state-by-state basis from the Australian Bureau of Statistics and other national databases. Some local crime statistics are available from State Police and are generally reported by police administrative areas.
(1) What, if any, facilities are maintained within The Treasury for the Assistant Treasurer, including but not limited to office space and support staff.(2) What is the annual cost of these facilities, including any staff costs.(3) On how many occasions since 20 March 2014 has the Acting Assistant Treasurer made use of these facilities.
(1) The Treasury does not maintain facilities for the Assistant Treasurer in the Treasury building.
(2) N/a
(3) N/a
Since 20 March 2014, have letterhead, business cards, envelopes and other stationery been printed bearing the name of the Acting Assistant Treasurer; if so, what was the total cost of these printed items.
No letterhead, business cards, envelopes or other stationery has been printed bearing the name of the Acting Assistant Treasurer.
What is the exact grant processing process within the (a) Department of Social Services, and (b) Department of Immigration, and how do they differ.
(a) Process for administering DSS grants:
The process for administering Department of Social Service (DSS) grants is outlined within the Department's Programme Management System (PMS). The PMS contains standard processes, templates and tools to direct grant administration, including clear roles and responsibilities against each stage of the grants lifecycle.
The PSS ensures compliance with the Commonwealth Resource Management Framework ( Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 , Commonwealth Grant Rules and Guidelines and Commonwealth Procurement Rules) and best practice principles to reduce red tape, support grant recipient engagement and increase standardisation and efficiency.
Under the guidance of PMS procedures, DSS uses the following process to administer a grant programme or activity:
The selection phase includes the design, development and publishing of an application pack, consisting of an application form, the programme guidelines and draft grant agreement.
There are three main selection processes used:
For applicants ranked suitable, service provider capacity risk assessments and financial viability assessments are conducted where proportional to the risk of the grant. Funding recommendations are then provided to the delegate for approval.
Delegate approval is followed by a Ministerial announcement and/or online publication of the selection process outcomes.
The selection phase is followed by an offer of grant funding and negotiation and execution of grant agreements with successful applicants.
Once executed, grants are managed by the DSS staff in State and Territory offices. The management process includes monitoring the delivery of agreed services, relationship management, capacity building and making payments in line with the terms of the agreement.
Following this, programmes and activities are reviewed in line with the evaluation strategy designed during the planning and design phase.
(b) Process for administering grants in the Department of Immigration
Questions relating to the Department of Immigration's exact grant processing arrangements will need to be directed to the Minister for Immigration and Border Protection, the Hon Scott Morrison MP.
Can he provide a copy of the Building Multicultural Communities Program funding agreement between his department and an applicant for (a) Stream 1, and (b) Stream 2.
(a) and (b)
Copies of the template can be obtained from the House of Representatives Table Office.
What amount of company tax was paid to the Commonwealth by the listed entity that, at that time, owned Sydney Airport in each financial year from 2002-03 to 2012-13.
The Treasurer is unable to access this information, due to the confidentiality provisions of the taxation law.
(1) What sum is allocated to each state and territory per financial year under the Tourism Demand Driver Infrastructure (TDDI) program.
(2) On what date will state and territory governments receive their 2014-15 allocation from the TDDI program.
(3) How many jobs will be directly created through the TDDI program.
(4) Will public transport projects be eligible for funding under the TDDI program.
(1) The sums allocated per financial year for states and territories under the Tourism Demand Driver Infrastructure (TDDI) programme is based on a formula endorsed by all state and territory tourism ministers at the Tourism Ministers Meeting on 11 July 2014.
(2) Payments to each state and territory government in 2014-15 will be linked to achievement of negotiated project milestones within the partnership agreement.
(3) The potential for job creation will be directly linked to the type of projects funded by each state and territory government.
(4) Principles for the TDDI programme agreed to by all state and territory government include the use of funds for transport projects that will drive tourism demand.
(1) What justification for taxpayer funds did Cadbury provide before the Government announced a $16 million grant on 28 August 2013.
(2) Will the Government make public the business case for the Cadbury project.
(1) $16 million was committed towards a $66 million project to upgrade the Cadbury Chocolate Factory in Claremont, Tasmania, to boost innovation, support growth in local manufacturing jobs and expand tourism.
(2) The Government would only consider releasing the business case with the permission of the project proponent, Cadbury Australia (Mondelez Australia (Foods) Ltd).
When will funding for the Survey of Tourist Accommodation cease.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) announced on 5 June 2014 that it will discontinue the Survey of Tourist Accommodation (STA). Austrade negotiated with the ABS to continue the collection for the 2013–14 financial year, and has provided the ABS with the funding it needs to collect and process accommodation data for this period (with data scheduled to be released on 14 December 2014). Austrade is currently working with government and industry representatives to examine options for a sustainable funding model for the STA beyond 2013–14.
Will the Government implement the National Commission of Audit's recommendation that funding for Tourism Australia be halved.
I refer the Member to Portfolio Budget Statements 2014-15, Budget Related Paper No.19, Foreign Affairs and Trade Portfolio, specifically the Programme 1.1 Foreign Affairs and Trade Operations Programme Expenses table (p.32) for the funding of Tourism Australia in 2014–15 and over the forward years to 2017–18:
And Programme 1.3 Public Information Services and Public Diplomacy (p.37)
(1) In respect of Freedom of Information request No. 13/14-078, of the 35 Stream 1 grants for the Building Multicultural Communities Program (BMCP) which did not proceed 'because the grant organisations did not comply with the terms of their letter of offer' (Department of Social Services Minute MN13-000014), (a) what were the reasons for non-compliance, (b) what information or documentation was not provided, (c) did a deadline apply to this compliance, and (d) did any applicants miss this deadline.
(2) Which two Stream 2 BMCP grants, totalling $215,429, are proceeding, and what (a) are the names of the applicants, (b) is the purpose of each grant, and (c) is the amount of each grant.
(1) Please see copy of Stream 1 Letter of Offer Copies of the attachments can be obtained from the House of Representatives Table Office and refer to the answer to Question on Notice 912 from Budget Estimates hearings of June 2014.
(2) Please refer to the response to House of Representatives Parliamentary Question on Notice 245.
(1) What were the reasons for withdrawing Building Multicultural Communities Program funding from the United Muslim Women's Association Inc, as referred to in the Settlement Planning Coordinator's email (Freedom of Information request No. 13/14-078).
(2) What sum of funding did the Association apply for, and for what purpose.
(3) Was the Association's funding withdrawn 'as a result of the review' as stated in an email from Ministerial Minutes dated 15 January 2014; if so, (a) what is the full title of this review, (b) was the review made public, and (c) who conducted or led the review.
(4) Can he provide a copy of his Parliamentary Secretary's letter to the New South Wales Member for Goulburn, referred to in a letter dated 12 February 2014.
(1) Following the whole of government review of discretionary grants, the Government decided to reduce the scope of the Building Multicultural Communities Programme (BMCP).
(2) Information about grant applicants approved by the former Minister for Multicultural Affairs in August 2013 is available in the answer to Question on Notice 244.
(3) Yes.
(a) to (c) The whole of government review of discretionary grant spending was led by the Department of Finance. The review commenced on 4 October 2013. The review found that the majority of Department of Social Services grants were able to proceed for 2013-14, with a small number of unexecuted grants ceasing. All executed grants were honoured. This was a decision of Government.
(4) The Department requires further information to identify this correspondence.
Has he received any correspondence in respect of the failure of the Government to appoint a Minister for Tourism.
No—the Minister for Trade and Investment is the minister for tourism.
Prior to the public announcement on 5 June 2014, was he informed of the decision by the Australian Bureau of Statistics to cease funding for the Survey of Tourist Accommodation.
No.
Has he received any correspondence from any of the 450 tourism operators who had submitted applications under Round 2 of the Tourism Industry Regional Fund.
Yes.
In respect of the Australian Bureau of Statistics' (ABS's) statement on 5 July 2014 about the Survey of Tourist Accommodation, claiming that the ABS is consulting with stakeholders to review the collection and seek a more permanent funding arrangement, (a) when did the consultation process begin, and when will it end, (b) which stakeholders are being consulted, (c) will submissions received as part of the consultation process be made public, (d) what process will the ABS undertake following the consultation period to determine the future of the survey, (e) when will a final decision on the future of the survey be announced, and (f) who does the ABS consider the 'users' to be.
(a) The consultation process began in August 2014 with a workshop facilitated by Australian Trade Commission (AUSTRADE). The consultation process is expected to conclude in December 2014.
(b) The consultation process will engage a range of stakeholders including industry representative bodies, accommodation providers, tourism operators, commercial property investors, and commonwealth government, state/territory government and regional tourism agencies.
(c) Consultation has been primarily facilitated by a series of workshops.
(d) At the conclusion of the consultation process the ABS, in collaboration with AUSTRADE, will examine the information needs of stakeholders, tailor a suitable collection solution, and provide recommendations on an appropriate funding model for the consideration of stakeholders.
(e) A decision of the future of the survey is expected to be finalised and announced by March 2015.
(f) The ABS considers that the stakeholders listed in (b) represent the major users of the survey.
Since 7 September 2013, has the Minister's department paid for or stocked the 'drinks cabinet' for (a) the Minister, and where applicable, each (b) junior Minister (including Assistant Ministers), and (c) Parliamentary Secretary; if so, at what cost.
No.
In respect of hospitality since 7 September 2013, has the Minister's department paid for any function to introduce to the department (a) the Minister, (b) the Minister's staff, and where applicable, each (c) junior Minister (including Assistant Ministers), (d) junior (and Assistant) Minister's staff, (e) Parliamentary Secretary, and (f) Parliamentary Secretary's staff; if so, at what cost.
Yes. The cost of the event was $2043.45 (excl GST).
In respect of hospitality since 7 September 2013, has the Minister's department paid for any function to introduce to the department: (a) the Minister; (b) the Minister's staff, and where applicable; each (c) junior Minister (including Assistant Ministers); (d) junior (and Assistant) Minister's staff, (e) Parliamentary Secretary; and (f) Parliamentary Secretary's staff; if so, at what cost.
(a) No.
(b) Yes, $625.00. Afternoon tea was organised in departmental premises for the Minister's staff to meet staff.
(c) Not applicable.
(d) Not applicable.
(e) Not applicable.
(f) Not applicable.
In respect of hospitality since 7 September 2013, has the Minister's department paid for any function to introduce to the department (a) the Minister, (b) the Minister's staff, and where applicable, each (c) junior Minister (including Assistant Ministers), (d) junior (and Assistant) Minister's staff, (e) Parliamentary Secretary, and (f) Parliamentary Secretary's staff; if so, at what cost.
I was introduced to staff in the Department on 3 occasions, at major office locations (2 in Canberra and 1 in Hobart). The cost of catering for attendees totalled $278.69.
My Department has not paid for any function to introduce any of my staff or Parliamentary Secretary Birmingham to the Department.
Since 7 September 2013, (a) how many departmental officials have been seconded to the (i) Minister's office, and where applicable, each (ii) junior Minister's office (including Assistant Ministers), and (iii) Parliamentary Secretary's office, (b) for how long, and (c) at what level.
The following table provides details of departmental officials seconded to the offices of the Attorney‑General and Minister for the Arts and the Minister for Justice for the period 7 September 2013 to 3 September 2014 (inclusive):
Office of the Attorney-General and Minister for the Arts:
Office of the Minister for Justice:
Since 7 September 2013, (a) how many departmental officials have been seconded to the (i) Minister's office, and where applicable, each (ii) junior Minister's office (including Assistant Ministers), and (iii) Parliamentary Secretary's office, (b) for how long, and (c) at what level.
There have been no secondments to the offices of the Defence portfolio Ministers or Parliamentary Secretary beyond temporary appointments, of less than 90 days duration, following the 2013 Federal Election - in accordance with paragraph 5.3.3 of the Department of Finance's Ministers of State Entitlements handbook and the practice of successive governments.
Since 7 September 2013, (a) how many departmental officials have been seconded to the (i) Minister's office, and where applicable, each (ii) junior Minister's office (including Assistant Ministers), and (iii) Parliamentary Secretary's office, (b) for how long, and (c) at what level.
(a) None.
(b) and (c) Not applicable.
Since 7 September 2013, (a) how many departmental officials have been seconded to the (i) Ministers office, and where applicable, each (ii) junior Minister's office (including Assistant Ministers), and (iii) Parliamentary Secretary's office, (b) for how long, and (c) at what level.
Since 7 September 2013, a total of 16 officials from the department have been seconded to the Minister's office, including three departmental liaison officers, seven advisers and six administrative officers.
Since 7 September 2013, a total of five officials from the department have been seconded to the Parliamentary Secretary's office, including one departmental liaison officer, one adviser and three administrative officers.
The classification levels of the officers have ranged between APS 4 to SES Band 2 and the length of the secondments ranged from three weeks to twelve months. These figures are current as at 3 September 2014.
In respect of media monitoring and clipping services in the financial periods since 7 September 2013, (a) what sum has been spent on such services engaged by (i) the Minister's office, and where applicable, each (ii) junior Minister (including Assistant Ministers), and (iii) Parliamentary Secretary, and (b) what was the (i) name, and (ii) postal address, of each media monitoring company engaged by each of these offices.
(a) (i) to (iii) No media monitoring services are engaged by the Minister's office or the Assistant Minister's office. The offices have access to the media monitoring service engaged by the Department of Health.
The total Departmental cost for the period 7 September 2013 to 30 June 2014 was $698,025.09 (GST exclusive) and includes services to five portfolio agencies and covers the Department of Health, including the Therapeutic Goods Administration, National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme and Office of the Gene Technology Regulator. The Department's financial system does not break down the cost of media monitoring services to the level required to separately identify details of services provided to the Ministers' offices.
(b) (i) The service is provided by iSentia Media Pty Ltd.
(ii) 131 Canberra Avenue, Griffith ACT 2603.
Has he initiated a new Shapiro report phase 2 into Westernport, Victoria.
The management and protection of Western Port is primarily a Victorian State Government responsibility. The Australian Government currently has a role in regulating activities where there are likely to be significant impacts to nationally protected matters.
I have, however, discussed with the Victorian Government how an updated Shapiro study may be achieved, as well as the necessity for any environmental assessments of future developments being based on relevant and up-to-date information that reflects the current environmental status of Western Port Bay.
Further to part (3) of the Minister for Industry's answer to question in writing No. 220 (House Hansard , 27 August 2014, page 145), what was the cost of the Productivity Commission's inquiry into Australia's Automotive Manufacturing Industry.
Please refer to page 57 of the 2013-14 Annual Report of the Productivity Commission.
In 2013-14, how many Commonwealth grants were approved by the Minister's department, and at what total cost, and of these, how many recipients have (a) signed funding agreements, and at what total cost, and (b) received payment, and at what total cost.
A list of approved grants for 2013-14 to date is publicly available on the department's website at:
http://www.dfat.gov.au/dept/grants/ which includes details of the total cost.
(a) All approved grants have signed funding agreements.
(b) The timing of grant payments vary with the terms of the funding agreement, however, payment is generally made in full when the funding agreement takes effect. To review payment terms for every grant issued this year to date will entail significant diversion of resources and in these circumstances I do not consider the additional work can be justified.
In 2013-14, how many Commonwealth grants were approved by the Minister's department, and at what total cost, and of these, how many recipients have (a) signed funding agreements, and at what total cost, and (b) received payment, and at what total cost.
The Department of Agriculture tables the Senate Order on grants—a list of grants approved by the department—prior to each Senate Estimates Hearing. The Senate Order lists are available on the Senate Tabled Papers Database at aph.gov.au.
A list of all grants with a signed funding agreement is published under grants and assistance on the department's website at agriculture.gov.au.
Grant payments are made in accordance with the agreement between the department and the grantee. An attempt to determine this level of detail would involve an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources.
In 2013-14, how many Commonwealth grants were approved by the Minister's department, and at what total cost, and of these, how many recipients have (a) signed funding agreements, and at what total cost, and (b) received payment, and at what total cost.
The Department of Education's grants are published on the department's internet site. The site provides details of grants awarded for the relevant period and is available at the following address: www.education.gov.au/grants.
In 2013-14, how many Commonwealth grants were approved by the Minister's department, and at what total cost, and of these, how many recipients have (a) signed funding agreements, and at what total cost, and (b) received payment, and at what total cost?
In 2013-14, the Department of Communications approved 97 new grants at a total cost of $65,462,720. In addition, amendments to 2 existing grants were approved at a total cost of $70,499,308.
All recipients have signed agreements at the total cost identified above.
It is considered an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources to identify payments made in the period due to the time consuming nature of gathering the data.
All departmentally approved grants for the period were published on the department's website:
http://www.communications.gov.au/about_us/reporting_requirements_and_reviews in accordance with Finance Circular 2013/02.
In respect of departmental staff overseas travel since 7 September 2013, what (a) was the total cost, (b) is the breakdown of this cost i.e., airfares, accommodation, hospitality, official passports and minor incidentals, and (c) was the travel for.
(a) Total cost $2,968,476.93
(b) Breakdown of the cost
(c) Reason for travel?
The majority of the overseas travel costs relate to Australia's G20 presidency, other international engagement activities and costs associated with departmental staff at overseas posts. Of the total cost above, $173,297.32 relates to costs reimbursed to Treasury by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
In respect of departmental staff overseas travel since 7 September 2013, what (a) was the total cost, (b) is the breakdown of this cost i.e., airfares, accommodation, hospitality, official passports and minor incidentals, and (c) was the travel for.
The Department of Employment was established on 18 September 2013.
The total cost of overseas travel of departmental staff for the period 18 September 2013 to 30 September 2014 was $323,574.
Of the total cost, airfares comprised $223,167; accommodation $56,964; hospitality $0; official passports $0; and minor incidentals $12,892.
The travel was undertaken for departmental related business.
In respect of departmental staff overseas travel since 7 September 2013, what (a) was the total cost, (b) is the breakdown of this cost ie, airfares, accommodation, hospitality, official passports and minor incidentals and (c) was the travel for.
(a) The total cost of departmental staff overseas travel from 1 September 2013 to 31 August 2014 was $0.329m (GST exc).
(b) and (c) The Department does not record travel data in a way that would readily allow individual components of travel to be identified. To attempt to provide this level of detail would involve an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources.
In respect of departmental staff overseas travel since 7 September 2013, what (a) was the total cost, (b) is the breakdown of this cost ie, airfares, accommodation, hospitality, official passports and minor incidentals, and (c) was the travel for.
For the period 7 September 2013 until 30 September 2014:
a) $2,845,562
b) The table below outlines overseas travel expenditure.
(c) Travel is undertaken to ensure Australia’s interests and obligations are met. Some examples are detailed below.
to Papua New Guinea to meet with the Kokoda Track Authority in relation to Australia’s ongoing heritage work relating to the Kokoda Trail.
to Indonesia, Thailand and Kenya to support those countries to establish national greenhouse gas inventories.
to Kiribati, Vanuatu, Fiji and Samoa to assist those countries to improve the resilience of infrastructure and water supplies to extreme weather.
Since 7 September 2013, how many corporate credit cards have been issued to departmental staff, and what is the total cost of all transactions made on them.
There were 102 credit cards issued during the period 7 September to 22 September 2014. The total spent for the same period is $1,086,183.
Since 7 September 2013, how many corporate credit cards have been issued to departmental staff, and what is the total cost of all transactions made on them.
As at 31 August 2014, the Department of Agriculture had 1 314 active corporate credit cards. During the period from 7 September 2013 to 31 August 2014, the department issued 212 corporate credit cards and cancelled 292 corporate credit cards.
The total cost of all transactions made by the department in this period was $5 483 292.
Since 7 September 2013, how many corporate credit cards have been issued to departmental staff, and what is the total cost of transactions made on them?
The Department issued 750 corporate credit cards between 1 September 2013 and 30 June 2014. The total cost of transactions made on these corporate credit cards were $ 1,912,775.
Since 7 September 2013, how many corporate credit cards have been issued to departmental staff, and what is the total cost of all transactions made on them.
Since 7 September 2013, the Department has issued 37 corporate credit cards to Departmental staff. A small number of these were renewal credit cards for those that had expired.
The total of all transactions on these cards from 7 September 2013 to 31 August 2014 was $375,428.01 (GST inc).
Since 7 September 2013, how many corporate credit cards have been issued to departmental staff, and what is the total cost of all transactions made on them.
Since 07 September 2013, 44 corporate credit cards have been issued to staff in the Department of Health. In the period 07 September 2013 to 22 September 2014 the total value of all transactions on the above 44 cards was $272,927.98.
In respect of the rollout of the National Broadband Network in the electoral division of Wills,
(a) what is the latest information and advice, and (b) what are the current (i) rollout plans, (ii) timelines and (iii) connection forecasts, of NBN Co. Limited
The following information on the NBN Co rollout is for the electorate of Wills.
(a) Latest information and advice:
(b) (i) Current rollout plans:
(ii) and (iii) Rollout timeframes and connection forecasts of NBN Co
NBN Co is currently working on a new rollout schedule which will indicate when different parts of Australia will be connected to the NBN and what technology will be used. More information about the NBN rollout will be published by NBN Co on its website: www.nbnco.com.au.
In respect of the National Broadband Network in Brunswick, Victoria, an original rollout site,
(a) how is the rollout progressing, (b) how many homes and businesses (i). were connected as of 18 September 2014, and (ii) are forecast to be connected over the next 12 months, and (c) what technology will residents be receiving over the coming months and years.
The following information on the NBN Co rollout is for the locality of Brunswick.
(a) how is the rollout progressing?
(b) (i) how many homes and businesses were connected as at 18 September 2014
(ii) and (c) forecast of premises to be connected over the next 12 months and what technology will residents be receiving over the coming months and years.
NBN Co is currently working on a new rollout schedule which will indicate when different parts of Australia will be connected to the NBN and what technology will be used. More information about the NBN rollout will be published by NBN Co on its website: www.nbnco.com.au.
In respect of the National Broadband Network in Strathmore Heights, and Gowanbrae, Victoria (a) how is the rollout progressing, (b) how many homes and businesses (i) were connected as of 15 September 2014, and (ii) are forecast to be connected over the next 12 months, and (c) what technology will residents be receiving over the coming months and years.
The following information on the NBN Co rollout is for the localities of Strathmore Heights and Gowanbrae.
(a) how is the rollout progressing?
*Represents the total build commenced premises in the FSAM of Tullamarine where Gowanbrae and Strathmore Heights are located.
(b) (i) how many homes and businesses were connected as of 15 September 2014?
(ii) and (c) forecast of premises to be connected over the next 12 months and what technology will residents be receiving over the coming months and years.
NBN Co is currently working on a new rollout schedule which will indicate when different parts of Australia will be connected to the NBN and what technology will be used. More information about the NBN rollout will be published by NBN Co on its website www.nbnco.com.au
When can residents in (a) Coburg, (b) Pascoe Vale, (c) Glenroy, (d) Hadfield, (e) Fawkner, and (f) Oak Park Victoria, expect to be connected to the National Broad Network.
As you may be aware, by September 2013 the NBN rollout was 462,000 premises (or 55 per cent) behind the revised schedule announced by the former government in August 2012, while the total funding NBN Co Limited (NBN Co) needed to complete the network was estimated to have blown out by $29 billion (or 65 per cent) beyond the sum budgeted by the former government in August 2012.
The post-election Strategic Review estimated the proposed fibre-to-the-premises NBN would not be completed until 2024 at the earliest – meaning that hundreds of thousands of Australians faced a wait of a decade before they could obtain access to telehealth, the opportunities of the digital economy or any online services whatsoever.
In addition, the Strategic Review estimated that completing the fibre-to-the-premises network would increase the cost of broadband for an average household by $43 per month.
NBN Co is currently working on a new rollout schedule which will indicate when different parts of Australia will be connected to the NBN and what technology will be used. More information about the NBN rollout will be published by NBN Co on its website www.nbnco.com.au.
To ask the Minister for Communications—Will his department make public all of the nominated locations it has received under the Mobile Black Spot Programme.
The database of mobile coverage black spots that were reported to the Department of Communications is available as an interactive map on the Department's website at:
http://www.communications.gov.au/mobile_services/mobile_black_spot_programme/map
The pins in the database represent the broader geographic area of the locations that have been reported to the Department.
Areas classified by the Australian Bureau of Statistics as 'Major Urban', i.e. with a population of 100,000 or more will be ineligible for funding under the Mobile Black Spot Programme. As such, ineligible areas reported to the Department have not been included in the database.
In respect of the ‘Baby Gammy’ case and out of country surrogacy agreements generally, (a) what steps does his department take to ensure consent of the birth mother for removal of a child from the jurisdiction into which it is born, and (b) is his department engaged in any review(s) of any or all of the policies, practices and law governing involvement by Australian citizens in such out of country surrogacy agreements; if so, when does he anticipate the review(s) will be completed.
In relation to question (a): As part of the process to bring a surrogate child to Australia to live, the commissioning parents of the child need to apply for either Australian citizenship by descent for the child, or a permanent visa for the child (if the child is not eligible for Australian citizenship by descent).
Any application for Australian citizenship by descent is predicated on the link between parent and child.
In respect of a Child visa (subclass 101), the visa can only be granted if:
the law of the country of origin allows the removal of the child from the jurisdiction, or
each person who can lawfully determine where the child is to live consents to the grant of a visa.
Sponsorship for a Child visa cannot be approved if the sponsor (or their partner) has been charged with a registrable offence. Indicative examples of registrable offences include murder of a child, sex offences involving a child, kidnapping of a child, grooming of a child, child prostitution or pornography made using children.
In relation to question (b) there are no departmental review processes underway.
Is he aware that the New South Wales Government support package in 2010 for timber industry workers and regional communities affected by the establishment of the River Red Gum protected areas in the Riverina included (a) $25 million business exit, and (b) $21.5 million worker assistance.
The establishment and management of the River Red Gum protected areas and any associated payments made to affected workers and communities in New South Wales are matters for the New South Wales Government.
Is he aware that the New South Wales Government support package in 2010 for timber industry workers and regional communities affected by the establishment of the River Red Gum protected areas in the Riverina included a $12 million grants program, and that under this program, timber mill owners CJ & DC Crump received $580,000 for the timber cutters museum and restaurant in addition to $1.21 million in industry assistance.
The establishment and management of the River Red Gum protected areas and any associated payments made to affected workers and communities in New South Wales are matters for the New South Wales Government.
In respect of CJ & DC Crump and other timber mill owners, is he (a) aware that (i) they received undisclosed figures for timber licence buy-outs in the order of several million dollars, and (ii) some of these timber mills were given new timber licences in remaining areas of state forests following the establishment of River Red Gum national parks, (b) now considering giving these business owners access to log River Red Gum national parks, and (c) aware of significant concerns from scientists and community conservation organisations at moves by New South Wales and Victoria to reinstate logging in River Red Gum national parks, which are not only national parks but internationally recognised wetlands under the Ramsar Convention.
The establishment and management of the River Red Gum protected areas and any associated payments made to affected workers and communities in New South Wales are matters for the New South Wales Government.
Any decision regarding activities within the River Red Gum national parks is a matter for the New South Wales and Victorian Governments, except where it is likely to have a significant impact on a nationally protected matter.
An ecological thinning trial jointly proposed by the New South Wales Government (NSW Office of Environment and Heritage) and the Victorian Government (Victorian Department of Environment and Primary Industries) has been referred for consideration under national environment law due to potential impacts on listed threatened species, migratory species and wetlands of international importance.
The trial is proposed to take place in both New South Wales and Victorian River Red Gum forests; specifically, in the Barmah National Park and the Murray Valley National Park (Millewa Precinct). The Department has been advised that the trial is not proposed to be undertaken as a commercial timber harvesting activity and is for ecological purposes. I am currently waiting for the final assessment documentation to be provided by the state governments.
Since 7 September 2013 to 30 June 2014, what training has been provided for (a) Executive, and (b) Senior Executive Service level departmental officials, and what (i) total sum has the Minister's department spent, and (ii) is the breakdown in cost, for such training.
In the Department of Employment decisions and budgets for staff training, including for Executive and Senior Executive Service employees, are largely devolved to line areas in the department. Manually collating agency expenditure on these items would involve an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources. The exceptions to this are a small number of corporate leadership programmes where attendees are selected from across the department and funded corporately. There has been no expenditure on these items between 7 September 2013 and 30 June 2014.
Since 7 September 2013 to 30 June 2014, what training has been provided for (a) Executive, and (b) Senior Executive Service, level departmental officials, and what (i) total sum has the Minister's department spent, and (ii) is the breakdown in cost, for such training.
Since 7 September 2013 to 30 June 2014 the portfolio has provided the following
(a) for Executive level officials, a range of training is provided and below is a list of courses which have been accessed* by staff at the Executive level (or equivalent) across the portfolio during the specified period.
Code of Conduct (complete every second year)
Fraud Awareness (complete every second year)
Records Awareness (complete every second year)
Security Essentials (complete every second year)
TRIM Basics (DIBP's record system)
Work Health and Safety Laws (annual)
Public Interest Disclosure Scheme
Culture and Conduct (annual)
Integrity Corruption and Fraud Awareness (annual)
Responsible Record Keeping (complete every second year)
Disclosure of Official Information (complete every second year)
Risk Management 101 - (complete every second year)
WHS responsibility in a Supervisory Role (annual)
(b) for Senior Executive Service (SES), level departmental officers a range of training is provided and below is a list of courses which have been accessed* by staff at the SES level across the portfolio during the specified time period.
Code of Conduct (complete every second year)
Fraud Awareness (complete every second year)
Records Awareness (complete every second year)
Security Essentials (complete every second year)
TRIM Basics (DIBP's record system)
Work Health and Safety Laws (annual)
Public Interest Disclosure Scheme
Culture and Conduct (annual)
Integrity Corruption and Fraud Awareness (annual)
Responsible Record Keeping (complete every second year)
Disclosure of Official Information (complete every second year)
Risk Management 101 - (complete every second year)
WHS responsibility in a Supervisory Role (annual)
(i) the total sum the Minister's department spent is $1 166 256.21**, and
(ii) the breakdown by (a) is $712 369.56** and the breakdown by (b) is $456 886.65**.
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Notes: *The courses listed have been accessed by at least one portfolio official during the specified period.
**Australian Customs and Border Protection Service
A catalogue of approximately 800 courses is available to all staff including Executive level and SES. It spans a wide range of competencies aligned to operational roles and qualifications as well as broader topics including leadership and a small number of mandatory courses. Some of the courses are internally developed and delivered and others the ACBPS partners with external providers to develop and deliver.
The cost of individual courses is not recorded in the Learning Management System and to provide this level of detail for all courses would be an unreasonable diversion of resources.
Department of Immigration and Border Protection (including OMARA)
For DIBP staff a catalogue of approximately 350 elearning courses is available to all staff, including Executive level and SES. It spans a wide range of core competency, role-specific and some leadership capability topics. The cost of individual courses is not recorded in the Learning Management System and to provide this level of detail for all courses would be an unreasonable diversion of resources.
Since 7 September 2013 can the Minister provide details as to the use of all consultants within his/her department, including reasons for engaging their services, and the costs involved.
All information on consultancy contracts awarded by the Department of Defence for $10,000 or more is available from the AusTender website (www.tenders.gov.au).
Since 7 September 2013 can the Minister provide details as to the use of all consultants within his/her department, including reasons for engaging their services, and the costs involved.
A list of all consultancy services of $10,000 (incl GST) and over let by the Department of Finance is available at the AusTender site (www.tenders.gov.au).
Since 7 September 2013 can the Minister provide details as to the use of all consultants within his/her department, including reasons for engaging their services, and the costs involved.
A list of all consultants used by the department, including reasons for engaging their services, and the costs involved, can be found on AusTender at www.tenders.gov.au.
Since 7 September 2013 can the Minister provide details as to the use of all consultants within his/her department, including reasons for engaging their services, and the costs involved.
Information on consultancies is available on the AusTender website at www.tenders.gov.au.
Since 7 September 2013 can the Minister provide details as to the use of all consultants within his department, including reasons for engaging their services, and the costs involved.
Under the Commonwealth Procurement Rules (CPRs), all consultancies at or over $10,000 (inc. GST) for non-corporate Commonwealth entities and $400,000 (inc. GST) for corporate Commonwealth entities must publish all contracts on AusTender as per mandatory reporting requirements. Details of these consultancies including the consultant's business name, description of services and costs associated with the contract can be found at www.tenders.gov.au
Under contract reporting requirements set out in the Commonwealth Procurement Rules (CPRs), entities are not required to individually identify contracts under the abovementioned thresholds and therefore do not record this information.
Details of contracts under $10,000 would only be obtainable from manual scrutiny of individual invoices that have been filed. To attempt to provide this level of detail would involve an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources.
Since 7 September 2013 can the Minister provide details as to the use of all consultants within his department, including reasons for engaging their services, and the costs involved.
All consultancies for the portfolio in excess of $10 000 are published on the AusTender website, www.tenders.gov.au/ including details of the reasons for engaging their services, and the costs involved.
In respect of a recent media report 'Leaked report raises concerns over 457 visa'? by Heath Aston ( The Age , 19 October 2014), will the Minister support the calls by United Voice, which represents 120,000 hospitality workers, to oppose the cutting of (a) penalty rates, (b) wages and (c) conditions, following the increase in foreign workers now engaged by the hospitality industry.
United Voice is fully aware that the setting of penalty rates, wages and conditions is entirely a matter for the independent tribunal, the Fair Work Commission, and not for Government.
United Voice along, with all industry participants, is welcome to make its views known to the Fair Work Commission.
It is noted that Department of Immigration and Border Protection data shows there was a 7.7 per cent decrease in the number of primary Subclass 457 visas granted for the Accommodation and Food Services Sector from 2012–13 (6,790 visas) to 2013–14 (6,270 visas).