The SPEAKER ( Hon. Tony Smith ) took the chair at 09:00, made an acknowledgement of country and read prayers.
Report relating to the consideration of private Members' business.
1. The committee met in private session on Tuesday, 10 November 2015.
2. The committee determined the order of precedence and times to be allotted for consideration of private Members' business on Monday, 23 November 2015, as follows:
Items for House of Representatives Chamber (10.10 am to 12 noon)
PRIVATE MEMBERS' BUSINESS
Notices
1 MR KATTER: To present a Bill for an Act to provide for the protection of certain borrowers who default on the repayment of credit, and for related purposes. ( Credit Repayment (Protecting Vulnerable Borrowers) Bill 2015 ).
( Notice given 10 November 2015. )
Time allotted—10 minutes .
Speech time limits—
Mr Katter — 10 minutes.
[Minimum number of proposed Members speaking = 1 x 10 mins]
Presenter may speak to the second reading for a period not exceeding 10 minutes—pursuant to standing order 41.
2 MR KATTER: To present a Bill for an Act to amend the Privacy Act 1988 , and for related purposes. (Privacy Amendment (Protecting Children from Paparazzi) Bill 2015 ).
( Notice given 10 November 2015. )
Time allotted—10 minutes .
Speech time limits—
Mr Katter — 10 minutes.
[Minimum number of proposed Members speaking = 1 x 10 mins]
Presenter may speak to the second reading for a period not exceeding 10 minutes—pursuant to standing order 41.
3 MR COLEMAN: To move:
That this House:
(1) recognises the importance of start-ups in driving innovation in the Australian economy;
(2) notes the critical role that start-ups will play in creating the industries and jobs of the 21st century;
(3) acknowledges that in order to be internationally competitive in the future, the Australian economy must be agile and fast moving;
(4) welcomes the close engagement between the Government and the start-up community through events such as the recent policy hackathon; and
(5) encourages the Government to further build upon its existing innovation agenda through the implementation of additional policies to create a vibrant start-up environment in Australia.
( Notice given 9 November 2015. )
Time allotted—20 minutes .
Speech time limits—
Mr Coleman — 10 minutes.
Next Member — 10 minutes.
[Minimum number of proposed Members speaking = 2 x 10 mins]
The Committee determined that consideration of this should continue on a future day.
4 MR WATTS: To move:
That this House:
(1) acknowledges that White Ribbon:
(a) is a male led campaign to end male violence against women;
(b) is now active in over 60 countries around the world; and
(c) ambassadors around Australia are working to engage men and encourage them to take a leadership role in ending violence against women;
(2) notes that:
(a) in 2015 in Australia, approximately two women are murdered each week by a partner or former partner;
(b) 17 per cent of Australian women have experienced violence by a current or former partner in their lifetime;
(c) men's violence against women is a symptom of gender inequality in our society; and
(d) social policy initiatives and law reform addressing gender inequality are central to reducing attitudes that support violence against women;
(3) recognises that:
(a) 25 November is White Ribbon Day; and
(b) the white ribbon is the symbol of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women; and
(4) supports White Ribbon and other organisations to eliminate violence against women.
( Notice given 20 October 2015. )
Time allotted—30 minutes .
Speech time limits—
Mr Watts — 5 minutes.
Other Members—5 minutes each.
[Minimum number of proposed Members speaking = 6 x 5 mins]
The Committee determined that consideration of this should continue on a future day.
5 MRS PRENTICE: To move:
That this House:
(1) recognises that Meals on Wheels has a long and proud history of providing ready‑made nutritious meals, as well as a friendly smile and a chat, through its dedicated network of volunteers since 1952;
(2) acknowledges that Meals on Wheels prides itself on providing 'More than just a meal'; and
(3) affirms that the ability of Meals on Wheels to provide meals along with trusted local community outreach is unparalleled, and is worthy of the recognition and continuing support of government.
( Notice given 13 October 2015. )
Time allotted—20 minutes .
Speech time limits—
Mrs Prentice — 5 minutes.
Other Members—5 minutes each.
[Minimum number of proposed Members speaking = 4 x 5 mins]
The Committee determined that consideration of this should continue on a future day.
Orders of the day
1 SYRIA AND IRAQ CRISIS: Resumption of debate (from 9 November 2015) on the motion of Ms Plibersek:
That this House calls on the Minister for Foreign Affairs to support a parliamentary debate during the current sitting on the Australian Government's strategy in response to the crisis in Syria and Iraq.
Time allotted—remaining private Members' business time prior to 12 noon.
Speech time limits—
All Members—5 minutes. each.
[Minimum number of proposed Members speaking = 4 x 5 mins]
The Committee determined that consideration of this should continue on a future day.
Items for Federation Chamber (11 am to 1.30 pm)
PRIVATE MEMBERS' BUSINESS
Notices
1 M RS PRENTICE : To move:
That this House:
(1) recognises that BUSHkids is a non government, not for profit community organisation which offers a range of free allied health services to children and families living in rural Queensland;
(2) notes that in 2015, BUSHkids celebrates its 80th year of service to the people of rural Queensland;
(3) acknowledges that BUSHkids relies on generous donations from the general public in order to be able to continue its valuable work;
(4) notes the launch of Friends of BUSHkids, an initiative to reinvigorate community involvement in promoting and fundraising for BUSHkids services; and
(5) encourages all Queensland Members to support the Friends of BUSHkids initiative in their electorate.
(Notice given 13 October 2015.)
Time allotted—40 minutes.
Speech time limits—
Mrs Prentice—10 minutes.
Next Member—10 minutes.
Other Members—5 minutes each.
[Minimum number of proposed Members speaking = 2 x 10 + 4 x 5 mins]
The Committee determined that consideration of this should continue on a future day.
2 MR CONROY: To move:
That this House:
(1) recognises that November is Asbestos Awareness Month;
(2) acknowledges that tens of thousands of Australian's have ongoing asbestos related illnesses as a result of being exposed to asbestos in the course of their employment or through exposure at their home;
(3) recognises the significant impact on the families and friends of Australians who have asbestos related illnesses;
(4) congratulates asbestos related illness sufferers, their families and the labour movement for their campaign to win justice and compensation for those exposed to asbestos; and
(5) commits to working towards eliminating asbestos both in Australia and around the world.
( Notice given 22 October 2015. )
Time allotted—40 minutes .
Speech time limits—
Mr Conroy — 5 minutes.
Other Members—5 minutes each.
[Minimum number of proposed Members speaking = 8 x 5 mins]
The Committee determined that consideration of this should continue on a future day.
3 MRS PRENTICE: To move:
That this House:
(1) acknowledges that many young Australians are environmentally conscious and interested in protecting our precious natural environment;
(2) recognises that the Government's Green Army programme is providing practical opportunities for young Australians to participate in local environmental projects;
(3) acknowledges that participants gain practical skills and training that can assist them to prepare for the workforce and improve career opportunities;
(4) notes that four Green Army projects have commenced in the electoral division of Ryan, and hundreds more have commenced across Australia; and
(5) commends the Government for committing more than $700 million over four years to the Green Army programme.
( Notice given 13 October 2015. )
Time allotted—40 minutes .
Speech time limits—
Mrs Prentice — 5 minutes.
Other Members—5 minutes each.
[Minimum number of proposed Members speaking = 8 x 5 mins]
The Committee determined that consideration of this should continue on a future day.
Orders of the day
1 MARRIAGE LEGISLATION AMENDMENT BILL 2015 (Mr Entsch): Second reading—Resumption of debate ( from 9 November 2015 ).
Time allotted—10 minutes .
Speech time limits—
All Members — 5 minutes each.
[Minimum number of proposed Members speaking = 2 x 5 mins]
The Committee determined that consideration of this should continue on a future day.
2 HIGH SPEED RAIL PLANNING AUTHORITY BILL 2015 (Mr Albanese): Second reading—Resumption of debate ( from 12 October 2015 ).
Time allotted—10 minutes .
Speech time limits—
All Members — 5 minutes each.
[Minimum number of proposed Members speaking = 2 x 5 mins]
The Committee determined that consideration of this should continue on a future day.
3 MIGRATION AMENDMENT (MANDATORY REPORTING) BILL 2015 (Mr Marles): Second reading—Resumption of debate ( from 12 October 2015 ).
Time allotted — remaining private Members ' business time prior to 1.30 pm.
Speech time limits—
All Members — 5 minutes each.
[Minimum number of proposed Members speaking = 2 x 5 mins]
The Committee determined that consideration of this should continue on a future day.
Migration Legislation Amendment (Cessation of Visa Labels) Bill 2015
That this bill be now read a second time.
Health Insurance Amendment (Safety Net) Bill 2015
Nearly 800,000 Australians with high medical bills will get back less from the Medicare safety net when they visit GPs and specialists under controversial changes.
TICKY FULLERTON: Will this Government commit to keeping the Medicare-plus-safety-net as it is now in place after the election?
TONY ABBOTT: Yes.
TICKY FULLERTON: That's a cast-iron commitment?
TONY ABBOTT: Cast-iron commitment. Absolutely.
TICKY FULLERTON: 80 per cent of out-of-pocket expenses rebatable over $300, over $700?
TONY ABBOTT: That is an absolutely rock solid, iron-clad commitment.
The new Medicare Safety Net arrangements, together with the ongoing freeze of Medicare patient rebates, mean that growing out-of-pocket costs will become a reality for all Australian families, including the most vulnerable patients in our community.
… coupled with the indexation freeze, the legislation will actually increase the cost of care to vulnerable groups. Safety net thresholds will increase by CPI annually while rebates are frozen.
As an older woman, I say leave us alone. My husband is fighting cancer.
We both paid our taxes, medicare levies, and for 54 years my husband struggled to pay for private health. Why? Cos he believed, like many in our age bracket, that we were protecting our family's welfare.
You have no idea of 'struggle'.
The new Medicare Safety Net arrangements, together with the ongoing freeze of Medicare patient rebates, mean that growing out-of-pocket costs will become a reality for all Australian families, including the most vulnerable patients in our community.
… coupled with the indexation freeze, the legislation will actually increase the cost of care to vulnerable groups. Safety net thresholds will increase by CPI annually while rebates are frozen.
The current safety nets are complicated and confusing.
Many of the operators currently operating under the Australian General Register would likely re-flag their vessels in order to compete with the foreign operators who enjoy the benefit of comparatively lower wage rates. Australian seafarers jobs would be adversely affected as Australian operators are re-flag from the Australian General Register. Ship operators are likely to replace Australian seafarers (paid under EA rates) with foreign seafarers (paid under ITF rates).
Primary schools teach our children and contribute to our nation's future. They embrace the responsibility of giving children the academic and social foundations for leading fulfilled and enriched lives. In our school communities, each child's identity and culture are celebrated; personal responsibility is encouraged and expected; and, the knowledge and skills are gained to become independent and lifelong learners.
Not all came through with courage enough, and faith enough, to stand the shattering onset of another war and to know what they must do.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
The problem with the GST … is that it affects households with lower incomes … because they will spend a larger proportion of their income on goods and services that are subject to the GST.
Mr Rudd could have put that to rest and said, 'No, there won't be any new taxes on the family home.' But he has not ruled that out, so that is a legitimate concern.
Not all these savings proposals will be universally popular or will necessarily win us votes.
That Mrs Prentice be appointed a supplementary member of the Standing Committee on Infrastructure, Transport and Cities for the purpose of the committee's inquiry into the role of smart ICT in the design and planning of infrastructure.
The government's plan to increase the cost of health and aged care for Australians
The Government's plan to increase the cost of health and aged care for Australians.
He who has health, has hope; and he who has hope, has everything.
If patients with insurance face no out-of-pocket costs, GPs might feel they can safely increase their fees for half the population—those with health insurance—with no impact on demand for their services.
As well as charging insured patients more, GPs might decide to charge uninsured patients more, or reduce the number of services that they bulk bill. So the second impact of the change would probably be to reduce access to care for the uninsured.
Health funds in New Zealand risk rate and when you turn 65 the premiums almost double, by the time you are 70 you can’t afford health insurance in New Zealand.
… allowing insurers to cover GP visits could undermine universal access to healthcare—the fundamental principle of Australia's Medicare system.
If health insurers could cover GP visits, they may pay doctors more than the Medicare rate, changing the market dynamics … That would be inflationary and it might have a flow-on effect to people without health insurance who will be expected to pay.
Health Insurance Amendment (Safety Net) Bill 2015
… the new Medicare Safety Net arrangements, together with the ongoing freeze of Medicare patient rebates, mean that growing out-of-pocket costs will become a reality for all Australian families, including the most vulnerable patients in our community…
… coupled with the indexation freeze, the legislation will actually increase the cost of care to vulnerable groups. Safety net thresholds will increase by CPI annually while rebates are frozen.
Many women are dismayed to learn that despite paying years of private health insurance premiums, they cannot claim for radiotherapy costs from their private health fund unless they are in hospital during their treatment.
These women must rely on the Medicare Safety Net to maintain their costs for radiotherapy at a reasonable level. Breast Cancer Network Australia is concerned about any proposed changes to the Safety Net that may increase treatment costs and add to the financial burden of a breast cancer diagnosis.
I am very concerned about the impact the new Safety Net proposals will have on patients who need long-term ongoing mental health treatment as these patients will find their health care with a psychiatrist increasingly unaffordable. If the new Safety Net is legislated a significant group of high need patients who require consultation with their psychiatrist more than once a week will lose the appropriate level of support provided by the current Safety Net arrangements. Many of these patients are poor and unable to work as a consequence of illness, and the intensive psychiatric help that they urgently need to re-build their fives will be lost under the new Safety Net.
I believe that patients who need to access a psychiatrist in these circumstances will suffer significant and increased financial hardship, or may, very frequently, be forced to give up much needed treatment to the overall detriment of their own personal health and well-being. The consequences are potentially disastrous.
The new Medicare Safety Net arrangements, together with the ongoing freeze of Medicare patient rebates, mean that growing out-of-pocket costs will become a reality for all Australian families, including the most vulnerable patients in our community.
Coupled with the indexation freeze, the legislation will actually increase the cost of care to vulnerable groups. Safety net thresholds will increase by CPI annually while rebates are frozen.
Higher Education Support Amendment (VET FEE-HELP Reform) Bill 2015
At least two men have been loitering around the Mullumbimby & District Neighbourhood Centre (MDNC) touting a dodgy online course they claim will 'help people get a qualification and improve their standard of living,' according to centre manager Julie Williams.
These guys aim to get people signed up to a course, assuring them that the costs are covered through the commonwealth government's VET FEE-HELP assistance scheme, and offering a free laptop computer.
The committee recommends that, given the evidence of rampant abuse, accelerating costs, and doubling of bad debt the government launches an immediate review into the operation and regulation of VET FEE-HELP.
Private, for-profit providers have collectively exploded as an industry, with the data showing they now deliver to two-thirds of the vocational education and training student population.
More than half of the federal funding for VET and VET FEE-HELP has been allocated to providers without the scrutiny and data disclosures required for other commonwealth programs.
Until now, the government had tallied only publicly funded vocational education and training. This included training by TAFEs and the other institutions—including private and community colleges, and training arms of companies—that had managed to secure government contracts. Under this approach, there were fewer than 1.8 million VET students counted last year.
The new report, released yesterday by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research, is the first to capture privately funded training as well as public. It found that 4,600 providers around Australia—including 2,865 private colleges—attracted 3.9 million enrolments last year. This compared with fewer than 1.3 million students at universities.
The House divided. [17:54]
(The Deputy Speaker—Mr Mitchell)
(1) Schedule 1, item 7, page 6 (after line 2), at the end of clause 23C, add:
(5) Before a *VET provider enrols a student in a *VET unit of study, the VET provider must advise the student that, if the student gives or has given a *request for Commonwealth assistance that relates to the unit or the *VET course of study of which the unit forms a part:
(a) the student will not be able to receive *VET FEE‑HELP assistance for the unit unless the student, before the end of the *census date for the unit, accepts an offer from the *Secretary to lend the student VET FEE‑HELP assistance for the unit; and
(b) the student will be taken never to have enrolled in the unit if the student does not accept the offer before the end of that census date.
(2) Schedule 1, item 12, page 7 (line 10), omit "date.", substitute "date; and".
(3) Schedule 1, item 12, page 7 (after line 10), at the end of subclause 45C(1), add:
(d) before the end of that census date, the student accepts in accordance with clause 45E an offer by the *Secretary under clause 45D to lend the student *VET FEE‑HELP assistance for the unit.
Note: If the student does not accept an offer under clause 45D before the end of the census date, the student is taken never to have enrolled in the unit (see subclause 45D(4)).
(4) Schedule 1, item 12, page 7 (after line 24), after clause 45C, insert:
45D Offer of VET FEE ‑HELP assistance
(1) If a student enrols in a *VET unit of study and the student has given an *appropriate officer of the *VET provider a *request for Commonwealth assistance that relates to the unit or the *VET course of study of which the unit forms a part, the VET provider must give the *Secretary written notice of the enrolment.
(2) If the *Secretary is given a notice under subclause (1), the Secretary must, by written notice given to the student, offer to lend the student *VET FEE‑HELP assistance for the unit.
(3) The offer must do the following:
(a) set out:
(i) the name of the *VET provider; and
(ii) the name of the *VET unit of study; and
(iii) the name of the *VET course of study; and
(iv) the *VET tuition fee for the unit;
(b) explain how the amount of *VET FEE‑HELP assistance to which the student is entitled is worked out;
(c) inform the student that the student will incur a debt in respect of any VET FEE‑HELP assistance lent to the student for the unit;
(d) explain how the amount of that debt will be worked out (including the effect of subsection 137‑18(2)) and how that debt will be repaid;
(e) explain how to accept the offer, should the student decide to do so;
(f) inform the student that the student does not have to accept the offer;
(g) explain the effect of subclause (4).
(4) The student is taken never to have enrolled in the *VET unit of study if the student does not accept the offer in accordance with clause 45E before the end of the *census date for the unit.
45E Accepting offer of VET FEE ‑HELP assistance
A student accepts an offer under clause 45D to lend the student *VET FEE‑HELP assistance for a *VET unit of study if:
(a) the student gives the *Secretary the acceptance in writing in the approved form; and
(b) the acceptance contains or is accompanied by an acknowledgement that the person understands the effect of accepting the offer.
(5) Schedule 1, item 24, page 11 (line 30), omit "and clause 45C", insert ", and clauses 45C, 45D and 45E,".
(6) Schedule 1, item 26, page 17 (line 11), omit "paragraph 45C(1)(c)", substitute "paragraphs 45C(1)(c) and (d)".
(7) Schedule 1, item 26, page 17 (line 30), omit "paragraph 45C(1)(c)", substitute "paragraphs 45C(1)(c) and (d)".
(8) Schedule 1, item 26, page 18 (after line 9), after subclause 39DH(1), insert:
(1A) For the purposes of paragraph (1)(d), disregard paragraph 45C(1)(d).
(9) Schedule 1, item 26, page 19 (after line 29), after clause 39DI, insert:
39DIA Civil penalty—failure to advise about accepting offer of assistance
A person contravenes this clause if:
(a) the person is a *VET provider; and
(b) the VET provider enrols another person (the student ) in a *VET unit of study; and
(c) before enrolling the student, the VET provider failed to advise the student that, if the student gives or has given a *request for Commonwealth assistance that relates to the unit or the *VET course of study of which the unit forms a part:
(i) the student will not be able to receive *VET FEE‑HELP assistance for the unit unless the student, before the end of the *census date for the unit, accepts an offer from the *Secretary to lend the student VET FEE‑HELP assistance for the unit; and
(ii) the student will be taken never to have enrolled in the unit if the student does not accept the offer before the end of that census date.
Civil penalty: 60 penalty units.
(10) Schedule 1, item 30, page 26 (line 22), after "clauses", insert "39DIA".
(11) Schedule 1, item 31, page 28 (line 1), after "and (2)", insert ", and clause 39DIA,"
Fair Work Amendment Bill 2014
That the amendments be agreed to.
That the question be put.
That the question be put.
The House divided. [19:05]
(The Deputy Speaker—Mr Goodenough)
The House divided. [19:15]
(The Deputy Speaker—Mr Goodenough)
That members be appointed and discharged as members of certain committees in accordance with the list which has been placed on the table.
Health Insurance Amendment (Safety Net) Bill 2015
The JCPOA is best characterised by ... bold prohibitions on Iran that peter out in qualifying terms such as 'unless', 'except if', and the like.
In respect of office space leased or owned by the Minister's department(s), (a) where are these offices located, (b) how much space (in square metres) is each office, (c) how much of this space is currently unused, and of this, what is the cost of (i) rent per month, (ii) utilities, including electricity and/or gas, telephone and internet, (iii) office furniture and/or hired equipment, including artwork and plants, and (iv) any other associated services.
The required information to the honourable member's question can be found in the attached document. Copies of the Attachment can be obtained from the House of Representatives Table Office .
In respect of ministerial costs for media events and photo opportunities in 2014-15, what (a) date was each event held, (b) location was each event held at, (c) sum was spent on each event, (d) announcement and/or issue did the event relate to, and (e) was the expenditure for.
To attempt to provide the level of detail requested would involve an unreasonable diversion of resources as this information is not centrally recorded.
In respect of ministerial costs for media events and photo opportunities in 2014-15, what (a) date was each event held, (b) location was each event held at, (c) sum was spent on each event, (d) announcement and/or issue did the event relate to, and (e) was the expenditure for.
To attempt to provide the level of detail requested would involve an unreasonable diversion of resources as this information is not centrally recorded.
In respect of ministerial costs for media events and photo opportunities in 2014-15, what (a) date was each event held, (b) location was each event held at, (c) sum was spent on each event, (d) announcement and/or issue did the event relate to, and (e) was the expenditure for.
Detail on ministerial media events and photo opportunities is included in the department's response to Parliamentary Question on Notice 1336.
In respect of ministerial costs for media events and photo opportunities in 2014-15, what (a) date was each event held, (b) location was each event held at, (c) sum was spent on each event, (d) announcement and/or issue did the event relate to, and (e) was the expenditure for.
No events or photo opportunities were specifically organised for the media.
In respect of ministerial costs for media events and photo opportunities in 2014-15, what (a) date was each event held, (b) location was each event held at, (c) sum was spent on each event, (d) announcement and/or issue did the event relate to, and (e) was the expenditure for.
From 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015 the following media events were conducted by the Department for the Minister:
(1) Online Copyright Infringement Forum
(a) 9 September 2014.
(b) Lend Lease Darling Quarter Theatre, Sydney.
(c) The details sought about event expenses are not captured within a central database. As such, the Department is not in a position to readily provide the information requested.
(d) The Australian Government's Online Copyright Infringement Discussion Paper.
(e) As noted above, the details of event expenses are not readily available. To provide a cost breakdown would require an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources.
(2) Telstra and NBN Co Definitive Agreements
(a) 14 December 2014.
(b) Commonwealth Paliamentary Offices, Sydney.
(c) The details sought about event expenses are not captured within a central database. As such, the Department is not in a position to readily provide the information requested.
(d) The signing of the revised Definitive Agreements between Telstra and NBN Co.
(e) As noted above, the details of event expenses are not readily available. To provide a cost breakdown would require an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources.
(3) Digital Innovation Forum
(a) 27 March 2015.
(b) Dr Chau Chak Wing Building, University of Technology Sydney.
(c) The details sought about event expenses are not captured within a central database. As such, the Department is not in a position to readily provide the information requested.
(d) The establishment of the Australian Government's Digital Transformation Office.
(e) As noted above, the details of event expenses are not readily available. To provide a cost breakdown would require an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources.
(4) Mobile Black Spot Programme
(a) 25 June 2015.
(b) Main Committee Room, Parliament House, Canberra.
(c) The details sought about event expenses are not captured within a central database. As such, the Department is not in a position to readily provide the information requested.
(d) The announcement of locations to receive new or upgraded mobile base stations and round two funding for the programme.
(e) As noted above, the details of event expenses are not readily available. To provide a cost breakdown would require an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources.
Did the Minister's department host any conferences in 2014-15; if so (a) on what date(s) did each conference occur, and at what location(s), (b) what total sum was spent on each conference, and of this, what sum was spent on (i) meals and accommodation, and what are the details, (ii) travel, and what are the details, and (iii) social events, and what are the details, and (c) what outcomes were achieved at each conference
OECD Workshop
(a) The Joint Commonwealth, Tasmanian State Government and OECD Workshop was held on 12–13 March 2015 in Launceston, Tasmania.
(b) The total cost of hosting the conference was: $37,553 (GST inclusive). This includes:
(i) Meals and incidentals: $2,629
Accommodation: $5,650
(ii) Travel (including transport and parking): $8,600
(iii) Conference welcome reception: $5,180
Other conference operating costs: $15,494 (e.g. catering, room hire, AV and equipment).
Prior to the workshop, a jobs fair was held by the Department on 11 March 2015. Some of the costs outlined above are associated with the jobs fair. Identifying these costs separately would require an unreasonable diversion of the Department's resources.
(c) The workshop brought together key stakeholders to investigate and support job creation ideas and initiatives in Tasmania. It focussed on:
The key themes that were identified in the workshop include:
The outcomes from the workshop were reported and discussed at the Joint Commonwealth and Tasmanian Economic Council meeting on 7 August 2015.
Seasonal Worker Programme Biennial Conference
(a) The Department of Employment hosted the Seasonal Worker Programme biennial conference on 7–8 August 2014. The conference was held on the Gold Coast, Queensland. Approximately 110 delegates attended day one of the formal conference and 105 attended day two.
In addition to these proceedings, the Department also hosted three additional activities:
(b) The total sum spent on the Seasonal Worker Programme conference and additional activities was $115,218. This includes:
(i) Meals and incidentals: $14,608
Accommodation: $32,100
(ii) Travel: $25,609
(iii) Conference dinner: $7,161
Other conference operating costs: $35,740 (e.g. catering, room hire, AV and equipment).
(c) The outcomes achieved include:
National jobactive Forum
(a) The National jobactive Forum was held on 27–28 April 2015 at the Park Royal hotel, Melbourne. It was attended by 56 departmental staff and 165 representatives from 62 providers and one industry association.
(b) The total cost of hosting the conference was $113,725. This includes:
(i) Meals: $30,000 for the function package, which included morning and afternoon tea, lunch and refreshments for all attendees. More than 200 senior managers of organisations contracted to deliver jobactive and the Department of Employment registered to attend the forum.
Accommodation: $19,269 (departmental staff and guest speakers)
(ii) Travel: $28,488 (departmental staff and guest speakers)
(iii) Networking event: $4,868. The event, which closed the programme on the first day of the Forum, provided the opportunity for providers attending from across the country to discuss jobactive priorities and transition in smaller groups and with officials.
Other conference operating costs: $31,100 (e.g. printed material, room hire, AV and equipment).
(c) The National jobactive forum brought together senior managers from organisations selected to deliver jobactive services and departmental programme and contract management staff to set expectations ahead of the start of the contract period.
The forum focussed on jobactive priorities, programme requirements, performance management and transition to the new services.
Did the Minister's department host any conferences in 2014-15; if so (a) on what date(s) did each conference occur, and at what location(s), (b) what total sum was spent on each conference, and of this, what sum was spent on (i) meals and accommodation, and what are the details, (ii) travel, and what are the details, and (iii) social events, and what are the details, and (c) what outcomes were achieved at each conference.
The Department of Social Services has not hosted any conferences during the 2014-15 financial year.
Did the Minister's department host any conferences in 2014-15; if so (a) on what date(s) did each conference occur, and at what location(s), (b) what total sum was spent on each conference, and of this, what sum was spent on (i) meals and accommodation, and what are the details, (ii) travel, and what are the details, and (iii) social events, and what are the details, and (c) what outcomes were achieved at each conference.
(a), (b) and (c) The Department of Human Services does not maintain a central database of this information. It would require an unreasonable diversion of resources to provide information on each conference, meals and accommodation, travel, and social events.
Did the Minister's department host any conferences in 2014-15; if so (a) on what date(s) did each conference occur, and at what location(s), (b) what total sum was spent on each conference, and of this, what sum was spent on (i) meals and accommodation, and what are the details, (ii) travel, and what are the details, and (iii) social events, and what are the details, and (c) what outcomes were achieved at each conference.
Information on conferences hosted by the department is not kept centrally. To provide this level of detail would be an unreasonable diversion of resources.
Did the Minister's department host any conferences in 2014-15; if so (a) on what date(s) did each conference occur, and at what location(s), (b) what total sum was spent on each conference, and of this, what sum was spent on (i) meals and accommodation, and what are the details, (ii) travel, and what are the details, and (iii) social events, and what are the details, and (c) what outcomes were achieved at each conference.
MR ROBERT - The answer to the honourable member's question is as follows:
In 2014-15, the Department of Veterans' Affairs hosted two conferences. Details are:
DVA/ Defence Research Workshop
This workshop was held the afternoon before the Australasian Military Medicine Association (AMMA) Conference. Travel and accommodation costs for DVA staff attending both the workshop and the Conference are unable to be allocated between the two events.
(a) On 16 October 2014 at NSW Trade and Investment Centre, Level 47, MLC Centre, 19 Martin Place, Sydney
(b) Total expenditure: $5,783.68;
(i), (ii) and (iii)
(c) Outcomes
A total of 85 researchers attended the research workshop from a range of government, non-government and private sector research organisations as well as several universities across Australia.
The key outcomes of the Research Workshop were:
Peer to Peer Support Network Forum
(a) On Wednesday 26 November 2014 at the Australian War Memorial, ACT.
(b) Total expenditure: $21, 290;
(i), (ii) and (iii)
(c) Outcomes: The forum informed development of DVA's peer support programme model funded under a 2013-14 Budget initiative.
Did the Minister host any conferences in 2014-15; if so (a) on what date(s) did each conference occur, and at what location(s), (b) what total sum was spent on each conference, and of this, what sum was spent on (i) meals and accommodation, and what are the details, (ii) travel, and what are the details, and (iii) social events, and what are the details, and (c) what outcomes were achieved at each conference.
No.
Did the Minister host any conferences in 2014-15; if so (a) on what date(s) did each conference occur, and at what location(s), (b) what total sum was spent on each conference, and of this, what sum was spent on (i) meals and accommodation, and what are the details, (ii) travel, and what are the details, and (iii) social events, and what are the details, (iv) travel, and what are the details, and (c) what outcomes were achieved at each conference.
No.
Did the Minister host any conferences in 2014-15; if so (a) on what date(s) did each conference occur, and at what location(s), (b) what total sum was spent on each conference, and of this, what sum was spent on (i) meals and accommodation, and what are the details, (ii) travel, and what are the details, and (iii) social events, and what are the details, and (c) what outcomes were achieved at each conference.
No.
Did the Minister host any conferences in 2014-15; if so (a) on what date(s) did each conference occur, and at what location(s), (b) what total sum was spent on each conference, and of this, what sum was spent on (i) meals and accommodation, and what are the details, (ii) travel, and what are the details, and (iii) social events, and what are the details, and (c) what outcomes were achieved at each conference.
Detail on ministerial hosted conferences is included in the department's response to Parliamentary Question in Writing no. 1388.
Did the Minister host any conferences in 2014-15; if so (a) on what date(s) did each conference occur, and at what location(s), (b) what total sum was spent on each conference, and of this, what sum was spent on (i) meals and accommodation, and what are the details, (ii) travel, and what are the details, and (iii) social events, and what are the details, and (c) what outcomes were achieved at each conference.
(a) Nil
(b) N/A
(c) N/A
Did the Minister host any conferences in 2014-15; if so (a) on what date(s) did each conference occur, and at what location(s), (b) what total sum was spent on each conference, and of this, what sum was spent on (i) meals and accommodation, and what are the details, (ii) travel, and what are the details, and (iii) social events, and what are the details, (iv) travel, and what are the details, and (c) what outcomes were achieved at each conference.
I did not host any conferences between 1 July 2014 and 30 June 2015.
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister's department in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
For the period 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015, the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet spent $281,361.35 (GST incl.) on official hospitality and $409,451.03 (GST incl.) on business catering. Costs were paid using both departmental and administered funding.
For each instance of official hospitality, the Department is able to provide details on the date, location, function description and total spend, but is unable to determine the cost breakdown for meals, drinks and wait staff without an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources. Items costing $10,000 or more are reported through Austender.
Detailed information related to official hospitality for the period 1 July 2014 to28 February 2015 has been provided in responses to previous Questions on Notice from the October 2014 Supplementary Budget Estimates PM141 and from the February 2015 Additional Estimates PM166. Detailed information related to official hospitality for the period 1 March to 30 June 2015 is shown at Attachment A (other than items costing $10,000 (GST incl.) or more). In the rare case that entertainment costs are incurred by PM&C, the costs may not be recorded separately from official hospitality.
The Department records catering costs as ‘Business Catering’. Business catering includes catering for planning days, general meetings, committee meetings and morning and afternoon teas for guests. To attempt to provide the same level of detail for business catering as that provided for official hospitality would involve an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources.
Attachment A
Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet Hospitality—Official Hospitality
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister's department in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
The Department's official hospitality expenditure from 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015 was $434,928.03 (ex GST).
Official hospitality is used for business purposes, when required and may include expenditure on planned events across Australia to recognise important and significant dates such as:
The level of detailed official hospitality information requested is not readily available for the Department. To identify this information would require a significant diversion of resources.
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister's department in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister's department in 2014-15:
The combined hospitality, food and beverage spend from 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015 is $1,067,530. Included within this amount is expenditure for the provision of tea, coffee and biscuits for community support services such as Financial Information Service seminars and CRS Australia customer meetings.
It would require an unreasonable diversion of resources to provide information on each function for which catering and hospitality was provided.
It would require an unreasonable diversion of resources to provide details of the date and location of each function.
It would require an unreasonable diversion of resources to provide details, by category, of the sum spent at functions on meals, drinks, hospitality staff, and other costs.
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister's department in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
The total hospitality/entertainment expenditure for the Department for the period 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015 was $212,128 (GST exclusive), including $2,841 made up of 107 events each costing less than $50. Please refer to Attachment A for details in relation to date, location, purpose and cost of each event.
The Department only captures information on total expenditure. There is no reporting split between meals, drinks, hospitality staff and other costs available.
Attachment A
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister's department in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
From 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2015, the Department of Veterans' Affairs spent $11,001
(GST excl.) on catering and hospitality. This was predominantly for small purchases of refreshments for meetings and forums involving external parties, in particular ex-service organisations. Information relating to date, location, purpose and cost for each event is not readily available. The time and effort to accurately provide this information would be an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources.
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
Hospitality and attending and hosting functions form an essential part of overseas visits by Ministers. These services are managed by all areas across the Department including Australian Government Posts. To provide further details would entail a significant and unreasonable diversion of resources.
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
The table below provides details of the (a) costs, (b) purpose, and (c) dates for catering and hospitality paid for by the Attorney-General's Department in 2014-15:
(d) It is not possible to provide a breakdown of spending on meals, drinks, hospitality staff and other costs as this information is not captured in the department's financial information system.
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
The table below provides details of the (a) costs, (b) purpose, and (c) dates for catering and hospitality paid for by the Attorney-General's Department in 2014-15:
(d) It is not possible to provide a breakdown of spending on meals, drinks, hospitality staff and other costs as this information is not captured in the department's financial information system.
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
In 2014-15 the Minister for Social Services spent the following on catering and hospitality:
(a) The sum of $2,705.93 GST exclusive was spent.
(b) The functions were for portfolio related events.
(c) Dates and locations are stated below in (d).
(d) For each function:
17 July 2014, Canberra
(i) Meals: $213.18 GST exclusive
(ii) Drinks: Nil
(iii) Hospitality staff: Nil
(iv) Other costs: Nil.
25 July 2014, Melbourne
(i) Meals: $192.00 GST exclusive
(ii) Drinks: $20.00 GST exclusive
(iii) Hospitality staff: Nil
(iv) Other costs: Nil.
3 September 2014, Canberra
(i) Meals: $243.64 GST exclusive
(ii) Drinks: Nil
(iii) Hospitality staff: Nil
(iv) Other costs: Nil.
21 October 2014, Canberra
(i) Meals: $93.64 GST exclusive
(ii) Drinks: Nil
(iii) Hospitality staff: Nil
(iv) Other costs: Nil.
28 October 2014, Canberra
(i) Meals: $907.73 GST exclusive
(ii) Drinks: $511.20 GST exclusive
(iii) Hospitality staff: Nil
(iv) Other costs: Nil.
2 December 2014, Canberra
(i) Meals: $79.54 GST exclusive
(ii) Drinks: Nil
(iii) Hospitality staff: Nil
(iv) Other costs: Nil.
17 December 2014, Melbourne
(i) Meals: $445.00 GST exclusive
(ii) Drinks: Nil
(iii) Hospitality staff: Nil
(iv) Other costs: Nil.
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
(a) Nil.
(b) N/A.
(c) N/A.
(d) N/A.
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
Detail on ministerial catering and hospitality is included in the response to Parliamentary Question on Notice 1440.
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
(a) $836.09 in 2014-15
*A detailed breakdown of spending relating to part (d) (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv) is not available.
In respect of catering and hospitality by the Minister in 2014-15, (a) what total sum was spent, (b) for what functions was the catering and hospitality, (c) on what date(s) did each function occur, and at what location(s), and (d) for each function, what sum was spent on (i) meals, (ii) drinks, (iii) hospitality staff, and (iv) other costs.
(a) Total cost of the one event was $3,510.29 excluding GST;
(b) Middle East Peace Run Documentary Launch;
(c) 23 September 2014, Parliament House, Canberra; and
(d) (i) $1,318.18;
(ii) Nil;
(iii) Banquet set up and escort $1,454.55; and
(iv) Banquet Security $644.15 and Merchant Service Fee $93.41.
It should be noted that these expenses were incurred by the former Minister for Health, the Hon Peter Dutton MP.
In respect of the map in the following link: http://www.bobkatter.com.au/page/attachment/23/2015-world-ethanol-map, showing the number of overseas countries using ethanol: (a) why is Australia not using ethanol; (b) why does Australia spend $25 billion on oil from the Middle East each year, when it could invest this sum on clean renewables in rural areas, generating 70,000 rural jobs and reducing the rate of cancers caused by particulate matter; and (c) why do Australians pay 147 cents per litre for oil, while other countries such as America and Brazil, pay only 75 cents per litre for ethanol.
(a) Ethanol blended fuel is sold in Australia and the level of its domestic use is presently determined by consumer demand rather than supply.
(b) The Australian Government is committed to a technology and fuel neutral policy that does not specify particular fuels or vehicle technologies for consumers. However, the Government's fuel excise framework presently provides support for alternative fuel domestic sources through lower excise rates than conventional fuels. Australia does import oil and petroleum products from a range of countries, including the Middle East, on a commercial basis to meet consumer demand. In 2014-15, the total value of oil and petroleum products imported by the petroleum industry was $33 billion with 8 per cent ($2.8 billion) being from the Middle East.
(c) Oil and petroleum products are internationally traded commodities. Prices, including those paid in Australia, are determined by the operation of international market forces. Ethanol trade is much more limited and the prices tend to reflect domestic market circumstances. Consequently, it is more appropriate to compare the ethanol blended petrol price in Australia with the price of regular unleaded petrol. The current price differential between regular unleaded petroleum and E10 (ethanol blend) fuel for use by Australian motorists is around 1.5 cents per litre, which reflects the lower excise on ethanol.
(1) What was the total expenditure by the Commonwealth on private employment service providers in 2014-15, and what is the breakdown of this expenditure by (a) service provider, and (b) electorate.(2) On average, what sum was spent on each participant in 2014-15, and did this vary distinctly between metropolitan, rural and regional electorates.(3) In 2014-15, what was the (a) minimum, and (b) maximum, sum received by private employment service providers for each participant, and did this sum vary by location and need; if so, how is "need" determined by the service provider, and is this standard universal across all service providers.(4) How can unemployed people seek recourse if they believe they are not receiving adequate services, including instances where there is a perceived conflict of interest between making a profit and the services provided, and what did this cost the Government in 2014-15.
(1) The total 2014-15 expenditure on the Disability Employment Services (DES) programme for private (non-government) providers was $715 million (GST exclusive). The expenditure broken down by (a) service provider and (b) electorate is set out in Attachment A.
(2) The average amount of Commonwealth expenditure per participant for DES in 2014-15 was $3,144 (GST exclusive). Average Commonwealth expenditure per participant by the geographic categories to which electorates are assigned by the Australian Electoral Commission were:
(3) In 2014-15:
(a) the minimum sum received by a private DES provider for a participant on its caseload was $0. There are a number of reasons for no payments being made for a participant. A common reason is that the participant was only briefly in the programme during 2014-15 before exiting and therefore the provider did not qualify for any further payments during the year for that participant; and
(b) the maximum sum received by a private DES provider for a participant on its caseload was $73,912. This included payments of more than $55,000 in approved workplace modifications.
Financial and performance management incentives for DES providers are highly geared towards finding participants job placements of at least 26 weeks in duration. The payments available to providers are not varied based on where a person lives or where the provider is located. Instead, the amounts that DES providers are eligible to receive vary according to the level of disadvantage of the participant, the length and level of service provided to the participant, and the outcomes achieved by the participant. For example, DES providers will be paid different amounts depending on whether the person is:
Participant need and level of eligibility for a particular service is predominantly determined by an allied health professional, who works for the Department of Human Services, to conduct Employment Services Assessments or Job Capacity Assessments.
(4) Participants in DES are encouraged to discuss concerns with their provider in the first instance. Where this discussion does not resolve the issue or, the participant feels they are unable to do so, participants have several avenues to raise a complaint about the delivery of DES, including any perceived conflicts of interest. These are:
An employment services participant may also take their concerns to the Commonwealth Ombudsman, who can also choose to investigate their complaint, including where they are not satisfied with action taken by the NCSL, CRRS and/or the DSS Feedback line.
Table one: 2014-15 Commonwealth DES expenditure by service provider (GST exclusive)
Table two: 2014-15 Commonwealth DES expenditure by electorate (GST exclusive)
In respect of the suspension (since 1 January 2015) of horticultural imports from Australia by the Government of Vietnam, (a) when can Australian growers expect trade to resume with Vietnam; and (b) when did he last meet with the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development in Vietnam to resolve this matter.
I announced the resumption of trade in oranges, mandarins and table grapes to Vietnam on 16 July 2015.
This was the culmination of considerable engagement by the Australian Government at Ministerial and officials level to reinstate trade in horticultural imports. This included direct representations with my Vietnamese counterpart, Cao Duc Phat Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, by telephone on 8 April 2015 having previously met with him in March 2015.
Officials within the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources continue working towards the reinstatement of trade in other horticultural commodities. This has included meeting with officials from Vietnam's Plant Protection Department in August, September and October 2015.
In addition, I announced the establishment of an Agricultural Counsellor position in Vietnam on 19 September 2015 as part of the Australian Government's $30.8 million commitment to maintaining and expanding market access for Australian farmers through the Agricultural Competitiveness White Paper.
The Counsellor will commence in January 2016 and will continue to advance Australia's interests and trading relationship with Vietnam.
In respect of the $49,500.00 tender (CN3287528) to Media Heads Pty Ltd, (a) what specific services will the contract deliver, and (b) what outcomes will be achieved.
(a) Media Heads Pty Ltd will provide radio and video content to promote online security awareness messages during Stay Smart Online Week in October 2015. The theme for the Week is: 'Your business is your business' and primarily targets small businesses to reinforce the importance of implementing sound online security measures to protect their business.
(b) The awareness raising strategy using Media Heads Pty Ltd is designed to complement other activities during Stay Smart Online Week which aim to encourage small businesses to improve their online security practices. Evaluation research will be conducted at the end of October 2015 to determine the level of change and intention to changes practices to improve online security amongst the target audience.
In respect of the Australian Government contingent that visited Torres Strait communities in Far North Queensland in August 2015, (a) what are the (i) names, and (ii) roles, of each person who attended with the former Minister, (b) can the full itinerary of activities involving the former Minister be provided, and (c) what was the total cost to his department including (i) flights, (ii) accommodation, (iii) ground transport, (iv) meals, and (v) miscellaneous expenses.
(a) Minister Morrison was accompanied to the Torres Strait by his Chief of Staff, Mr Charles Wann, and Secretary of the Department of Social Services, Mr Finn Pratt.
(b) A full itinerary of activities is attached. Note that travel to and from North Queensland was on Monday 24 August and Friday 28 August 2015.
(c) The total cost to the Department of Social Services for Mr Pratt's travel was $4354.51 which includes:
(i) $3561.71 flights
(ii) $376.00 accommodation
(iii) $112.80 ground transport
(iv) $304.00 meals.
SUMMARY PROGRAMME
Minister for Social Services
The Hon Scott Morrison Visit to Thursday Island and Northern Peninsula Area
Tuesday 25 August 2015
Wednesday 26 August 2015
Thursday 27 August 2015
In respect of an article entitled 'Russell Matheson guarantees Campbelltown and surrounds silence from Badgerys Creek airport' by Vera Bertola ( Macarthur Chronicle (Campbelltown), 8 May 2015), (a) were assurances given to the Member for Macarthur that there would be no impact (from aircraft noise at the proposed Badgerys Creek Airport) on residents in that electoral division; if so, on what basis, and (b) will he provide similar assurances to the residents in the electoral division of Greenway.
The proposed airport has a northeast-southwest runway alignment, meaning aircraft would take off and land over the future Western Sydney Employment Area and to the predominantly rural area to the southwest of the site. The draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) released 19 October 2015 assesses noise and other impacts based on indicative flight paths provided by Airservices Australia, Australia's air traffic management agency. The draft EIS is available for community comment until 18 December 2015.
In respect of the $640,860.00 tender to Fuji Xerox Australia for 'Digitalisation Paper Records' (CN3290657), (a) which records are being digitised, and (b) what is the benefit of digitising these records.
(a) The company is scanning and performing Optical Character Recognition of 62 000 archived corporate files required to be retained under the Archives Act – 1983.
(b) In addition to meeting its obligations under the Government's Digital Transition Policy - 2011 , digitisation of its archived physical records reduces the department's accommodation footprint and enables electronic textual search of archived records.
In respect of the $81,252.86 tender to Dentsu Mitchell Media Australia for 'SSO Week Media and Advertorial placement' (CN3290428), (a) what are the details of the placement, including (i) location, and (ii) frequency, and (b) what is the relevant policy area.
(a) As part of Stay Smart Online Week activities advertorials will be placed in relevant industry specific magazines to raise awareness about the importance of sound online security practices that small businesses should adopt to protect their business.
(i) Industry Magazines:
Online Media:
(ii) Magazine advertorials will appear once only in each of the eight magazines. Online media will run during the period specified in (a) (i) Online Media above.
(b) The Stay Smart Online Programme is a whole of Government initiative which is run through the Department of Communications and the Arts, Consumer and Content Division.
In respect of the Indian Ocean Rim Association Dialogue held in Perth on 6 September 2015 (a) how many (i) delegates, (ii) Ministerial staff, and (iii) departmental staff, were in attendance, (b) did (i) she, and/or (ii) the Parliamentary Secretary, attend, (c) what was the total cost of the conference, including (i) venue hire, (ii) venue preparation and decoration, (iii) meals, (iv) accommodation, (v) travel, and (vi) other allowances, and (d) what was the itinerary.
(a) Attendance at the Indian Ocean Dialogue 2015 comprised 77 delegates drawn from 21 IORA Member States and Dialogue Partners, 2 Ministerial staff, and 3 departmental staff.
(b) I (the Hon Julie Bishop MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs) attended the opening session of the Indian Ocean Dialogue on 6 September 2015 and delivered a keynote address on maritime security cooperation in the Indian Ocean region, which can be viewed on my website. The Parliamentary Secretary did not attend.
(c) The total cost of the conference including venue hire, venue preparation and decoration, meals, accommodation and travel, was $199,717.59. No additional allowances such as per diems were paid to delegates.
(d) The full Indian Ocean Dialogue 2015 program is below:
Day One - Saturday 5 September 2015
1800 Conference Registration
1830-2100 Welcome reception and dinner at the Perth Convention Centre
Day Two - Sunday 6 September 2015
0830-0900 Registration
0900-1000 Opening Plenary
0900-0910 Welcome by Major General John Hartley (Retd), CEO, Future Directions International
0910-0930 Keynote opening address by the Hon Julie Bishop MP, Minister for Foreign Affairs
0930-0945 Update on recent IORA activities and comments on regional cooperation by His Excellency, KV Bhagirath, IORA Secretary General
0945 Official photographs
1000-1030 Spotlight Presentation: Non-Traditional Security Challenges
1030-1100 Morning tea
1100-1230 Session 1: Combating Maritime Transnational Crime
1230-1330 Lunch
1330-1500 Session 2: Maritime Security and Defence Cooperation
1500-1520 Afternoon tea
1520-1630 Session 3: Regional cooperation in Search and Rescue
1700 Depart Convention Centre
1730-1930 Dinner cruise
2000 Return to accommodation
Day Three - Monday 7 September 2015
0900-0910 Opening remarks: reflections on Dialogue thus far
0910-0930 Spotlight Presentation: Deliberative Dispute Settlement: Developments in the Bay of Bengal
0930-1045 Session 4: Blue Economy as a Driver of Economic Growth
1045-1115 Morning tea
1115-1230 Session 5: Countering Illegal Fishing
1230-1330 Lunch
1330-1500 Session 6: Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief
1500-1530 Afternoon tea
1530-1600 Discussion and agreement of "Perth Consensus"
1600-1615 Concluding remarks
In respect of the $10,873.50 tender to Gartner Australasia Pty Ltd for 'Symposium/ITxpo Tickets' (CN3290635)
(a) how many (i) Ministerial staff, and (ii) departmental staff, will be in attendance at ITxpo, (b) what outcomes will be achieved at ITxpo, and (c) can his department provide an itemised budget for (i) meals, (ii) travel, and (iii) other allowances for ITxpo.
In respect of the $10,873.50 tender to Gartner Australasia Pty Ltd for 'Symposium/ITxpo Tickets' (CN3290635)
(a) There will be:
(i) No ministerial staff in attendance at the ITxpo.
(ii) 10 departmental staff in attendance at the ITxpo.
(b) Staff in attendance will engage with Gartner analysts and peers from across the IT industry to discuss IT trends, innovations and major IT challenges facing organisations across the globe. This conference will provide opportunities for these staff to improve and refresh their knowledge of the current global IT landscape through participation in a range of workshops, round table discussions, keynote presentations and one-on-one Gartner analyst meetings.
(c) The $10,873.50 tender covers the cost for all 10 staff members' tickets to the ITxpo. Below is an itemised budget for:
(i) meals $3,686.05
(ii) travel $11,656.08
(iii) other allowances for ITxpo $878.25
(1) Has a contract been entered into for the administration of the Health Workforce Scholarship Programme; if so, which organisation will be administering the programme. (2) What sum of funding is available each financial year under this programme to deliver Health Workforce Scholarships.
(1) No. The Health Workforce Scholarship Programme will commence on 1 July 2016, and an approach to market for administration of this programme will occur before then.
(2) Once an approach to market has been completed for the Health Workforce Scholarship Programme, details of the funding arrangements entered into with the successful provider will be reported through normal government processes.
Further to her answer to question in writing No.1328 (House Hansard , 14 September 2015, page 182), does her department keep records on costs incurred by it, if not, why not; if so, (a) are those costs itemised, and (b) are documents available that would identify these costs.
DFAT has in place appropriate and effective record keeping policies, and financial records are maintained as required under subsection 41(2) of the PGPA Act.
Details of specific media events and photo opportunities are maintained on individual files across the department's domestic and overseas network. To provide these details would entail a significant diversion of resources and, in these circumstances, I do not consider the additional work can be justified.
In respect of the $25,850.00 tender to the Australian Research Survey Group for "Procurement of Online Survey Tool" (CN3291487), (a) what is the aim of this survey, and (b) to what policy(s) and/or initiative(s) does this tool relate.
The Post-Programme Monitoring survey is used to measure the labour market status of job seekers who received assistance through government-funded employment services and has operated since 1987.
The online survey tool was procured to reduce mail and printing costs for the Post-Programme Monitoring survey, as well as to provide an alternative mode of response for job seekers.
What costs did the Minister's Department incur resulting from the former Minister's visit to the McDonald's Training Centre in Sydney on 27 August 2015?
The former Minister was in Sydney on official government business on 27 August 2015. The Department paid $138.01 for the former Minister's Comcar travel to visit the McDonald's Training Centre in Thornleigh during the day.
(1) Will he investigate reports that police believe a foreign worker who had recently overstayed his visa and was found dead in a toilet block in Mildura, was suffering from a treatable medical condition for which he did not seek help due to concerns about his illegal status.(2) Will he conduct an investigation into whether foreign workers are being exploited by labour hire contractors but are reluctant to speak up about the exploitation for fear of being sent home.(3) Will he investigate whether local workers who witness exploitation and intimidation of temporary foreign workers are reluctant to speak up for fear of being blackballed from whatever future employment may be available to them.(4) Will he, in consultation with the Minister for Employment, consider whether it is acceptable for employers to use labour hire companies to recruit temporary foreign workers and thereby seek to avoid responsibility for the way these workers are treated.
(1) Victoria Police is responsible for investigations into the deaths of all persons within Victoria, regardless of the person's residency status.
(2) Any exploitation of workers, whether local or foreign workers, is to be condemned. The Minister for Employment recently established a Ministerial Working Group to consult further on policy options to protect vulnerable foreign workers. This working group builds on the strong action the Government has already taken to stamp out the exploitation of foreign workers.
(3) All workers in Australia, including foreign nationals, must be engaged in accordance with applicable Australian workplace law and standards (including awards, agreements, superannuation, workers' compensation and workplace safety). All workers receive the same protection in terms of the investigation of claims of underpayment, exploitation and discriminatory practices by Australian companies.
The Fair Work Ombudsman is very active in this area and has a dedicated Overseas Workers team. Since 2012, the Fair Work Ombudsman has dealt with over 6,000 requests for assistance from visa holders and recovered more than $4 million in outstanding wages and entitlements.
The Fair Work Ombudsman has also undertaken substantial education activities with employers through its Harvest Trail project; conducted in depth inquiries into Baiada,
7-Eleven and the working holiday visa programme; and (as required) bought prosecutions, many involving employers of visa holders.
(4) There are many reputable employers and labour hire companies who engage foreign workers in full compliance with the law. The Ministerial Working Group will consider a range of options in relation to employers, including labour hire companies, who deliberately flout the law. The Government has also established Taskforce Cadena to complement the ongoing compliance activities of the Department of Immigration and Border Protection and the Fair Work Ombudsman to ensure foreign workers are paid in accordance with Australian workplace law. Taskforce Cadena is investigating allegations of worker exploitation, particularly against labour hire companies in the food production and agriculture industries. The Taskforce works with the Australian Federal Police, the Australian Securities and Investment Commission, the Australian Taxation Office, and state and territory agencies.
In respect of instances where the Future Fund has invested in companies or other entities operating or reinvesting in the following GICS sub-industries: (a) 10101010—Oil & Gas Drilling, (b) 10101020—Oil & Gas Equipment & Services, (c) 10102010—Integrated Oil & Gas, (d) 10102020—Oil & Gas Exploration & Production, (e) 10102030—Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing, (f) 10102040—Oil & Gas Storage & Transportation, (g) 10102050—Coal & Consumable Fuels, (h) 55101010—Electric Utilities, and (i) 55103010—Multi-Utilities, what (i) are the names of the companies, and (ii) is the current value of investments.
The answer is set out in the following table as at 12 October 2015.
(1) In 2014-15, what sum was spent on (a) domestic travel, and (b) international travel, for the (i) former Assistant Minister for Employment, and (ii) this Minister's staff.(2) Of this, (a) on what dates, and to what locations, did this Minister travel, (b) how many Ministerial staff accompanied this Minister on this travel, and (c) for what purpose was this travel.
Official travel by Ministers and Parliamentary Secretaries and their staff are met by the Department of Finance (DoF). Any questions regarding those costs or arrangements should be referred to DoF.
Did the former Assistant Minister for Education and Training host any conferences in 2014-15; if so (a) on what date(s) did each conference occur, and at what location(s), (b) what total sum was spent on each conference, and of this, what sum was spent on (i) meals and accommodation, and what are the details, (ii) travel, and what are the details, and (iii) social events, and what are the details, and (c) what outcomes were achieved at each conference.
The Assistant Minister did not host any conferences in 2014–15.
In respect of the Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching website, (a) what is the cost of all activities associated with the website, including (i) research and development, (ii) advertising, and (iii) ongoing maintenance, and (b) how many times has the website been accessed as at 13 October 2015, and from where.
(a) Since October 2014, when the contract was signed, the costs of all activities associated with the QILT website are:
(b) Since the launch of QILT on 16 September 2015, there have been 27,738 visits to the website (as at 13 October 2015). The majority of these visits are from NSW, Vic and Qld with over 600 visits from both USA and India.
In respect of the name change to his department on 21 September 2015, will his department provide an itemised account of all associated costs, including (a) signage, (b) stationery, including business cards and letterheads, (c) web design and IT services, (d) vehicular signage and painting, and (e) marketing materials, including logos, pamphlets, and audio-visual materials such as DVDs.
At present, it is too early to confirm any costs associated with the change of name.
In respect of the name change from the Ministry of Arts within the Attorney-General's portfolio to the Ministry for the Arts within the Communications portfolio on 21 September 2015, will the Minister provide an itemised account of all associated costs, including (a) signage, (b) stationery, including business cards and letterheads, (c) web design and IT services, (d) vehicular signage and painting, and (e) marketing materials, including logos, pamphlets, and audio-visual materials such as DVDs.
The Department's financial system does not allow for a distinction between spending on signage, stationery, web design and IT services, vehicle signage and painting, and marketing materials.
To attempt to identify this data would be an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources.
In respect of the name change from the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy to the Department of Communications on 18 September 2013, will the Minister's department provide an itemised account of all associated costs, including (a) signage, (b) stationery, including business cards and letterheads, (c) web design and IT services, (d) vehicular signage and painting, and (e) marketing materials, including logos, pamphlets, and audio-visual materials such as DVDs.
The Department's financial system does not allow for a distinction between spending on signage, stationery, web design and IT services, vehicle signage and painting, and marketing material.
To attempt to identify this data would be an unreasonable diversion of departmental resources.
In respect of the name change to the Minister's department from the Department of Education to the Department of Education and Training on 21 September 2015, will the Minister's department provide an itemised account of all associated costs, including (a) signage, (b) stationery, including business cards and letterheads, (c) web design and IT services, (d) vehicular signage and painting, and (e) marketing materials, including logos, pamphlets, and audio-visual materials such as DVDs.
There were no changes to the department's name on 21 September 2015, therefore no costs were incurred.
In respect of the name change to the Minister's department from the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations to the Department of Employment on 18 September 2013, will the Minister's department provide an itemised account of all associated costs, including (a) signage, (b) stationery, including business cards and letterheads, (c) web design and IT services, (d) vehicular signage and painting, and (e) marketing materials, including logos, pamphlets, and audio-visual materials such as DVDs.
In respect of the name change to the Department of Employment on 18 September 2013 the following costs were incurred:
(a) Signage, including for national and state offices, was produced at a cost of $4,780.15.
(b) There was no cost for letterheads (templates are available online through the Department's intranet and letters are only printed as needed). As at 30 June 2014, name badges were produced at a cost of $5,825.18 (excluding GST) and business cards were printed at a cost of $8,886.24 (excluding GST). Following this date production of name badges and business cards are considered business as usual and therefore not associated with the name change.
(c) Nil. The separation of Employment related website content away from its predecessor Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations was performed in-house, within existing departmental resources.
(d) Nil.
(e) Departmental banners were created at a cost of $3,225.91.
In respect of the name change to the Minister's department from the Department of Finance and Deregulation to the Department of Finance on 18 September 2013, will the Minister's department provide an itemised account of all associated costs, including (a) signage, (b) stationery, including business cards and letterheads, (c) web design and IT services, (d) vehicular signage and painting, and (e) marketing materials, including logos, pamphlets, and audio-visual materials such as DVDs.
Refer to the response to Senate Estimates Question on Notice F84, asked at the2013-14 Supplementary Budget Estimates hearings which can be found at:
http://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Senate_Estimates/fapactte/estimates/sup1314/finance/index.