QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS - Parliament of NSW · QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS No. 176 WEDNESDAY 3 MAY 2006 The...

PARLIAMENT OF NEW SOUTH WALESLEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

2003-06

FIRST SESSION OF THE FIFTY-THIRD PARLIAMENT

QUESTIONS AND

ANSWERS

No. 176

WEDNESDAY 3 MAY 2006

The Questions and Answers Paper is published for each sitting day and will contain, by number and title, all unanswered questions, together with questions to which answers have been received on the previous sitting day and any new questions. Consequently the full text of any question will be printed only twice: when notice is given; and, when answered.

6643

Publication of Questions Answer to be lodged by

Q & A No. 167 (Including Question Nos 5476 to 5509) 11 April 2006



Q & A No. 170 (Including Question Nos 5580 to 5606) 02 May 2006






Q & A No. 176 (Including Question Nos 5803 to 5833) 06 June 2006

6644LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS


7 MARCH 2006(Paper No. 167)

*5476 M7 MOTORWAY—Mr Richard Amery asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) What was the average daily usage by motorists on the M7 Motorway during the one month toll free period?

(2) What was the average daily usage by motorists in the first month after the commencement of the collection of the toll?

(3) What is the current growth rate of traffic using this motorway?Answer—I am advised by the tollway company:The average daily trips for the toll free period 17 December 2005 to 15 January 2006 (inclusive) were 137,013.The average daily trips for the remainder of January were 80,359. The figures for February 2006 of 90,614 daily trips demonstrate a 12.8% increase compared to this period.The figures for March 2006 of 94,859 daily trips demonstrate a 4.7% increase in traffic from the previous month.This information is also available on the Internet.

*5477 SPECIAL PURPOSE TRUST FUND—CULCAIRN MPS—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) What is the total amount held in the Culcairn MPS special purpose trust (SPT) fund?(2) How are these funds held and where are they invested?(3) What growth has been achieved for the SPT fund since it has been held by the Department on behalf

of the community?(4) How many similar funds exist in NSW hospitals and how are they managed?Answer—(1) The current balance of the Culcairn Special Purpose Trust Fund is $247,218.54.(2) All investments are made in accordance with the guidelines provided to NSW Health by Treasury.(3) Since 1999, the value of the trust fund has increased from $168,000 to its current balance, a net

increase of $79,217.54.(4) I refer the member to the 2004⁄05 Annual Report for Specific Purposes funds. The funds are only

available for application in accordance with the terms of the donor restrictions. See also the answer to question 2.

*5479 CHATSWOOD TRANSPORT PRECINCT PROJECT SUBMISSIONS—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

In relation to the Chatswood Transport Precinct Project (CTPP):(1) Under your conditions of approval of the CTPP the outstanding matters needing resolution were to

be finalised by a working party consisting of TIDC, CRI and Willoughby Council. Has this body been formed?

(2) Does it receive public submissions on the unresolved issues? What is the contact address?(3) When has it and when will it be meeting?(4) Has a deadline been set for completing its work? If so, when?Answer—I am advised:These matters fall within the protfolio responsibilities of the Minister for Planning and should be referred accordingly.

*5480 CHATSWOOD TRANSPORT PRECINCT PROJECT—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

In relation to the Chatswood Transport Precinct Project (CTPP):



(1) What information do you have about the sale of the retail portion of the site by CRI to the Precision Group ?

(2) Are there public valuations by the Valuer-General of the strata lots subdivided in this site? What are the valuations?

(3) Will a Development Application Master Plan for the shop precinct be exhibited?Answer—I am advised:These matters are the responsibility of CRI and the "Precision Group" and are best directed to those companies.

*5482 WOOD SUPPLY AGREEMENT—Mr Steve Cansdell asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

(1) Is the Minister aware that some timber mills on the North Coast are not getting their guaranteed wood supply under the long term wood supply agreement signed by both the mills and the New South Wales Government?

(2) Is the Minister aware that six jobs have been lost from a mill in Ulmarra directly due to the inability of State Forests to supply timber of adequate quality?

(3) What action will the Minister take to ensure the mills' long term wood supply agreement will be honoured?

Answer—I am advised by the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries and Minister for Mineral Resources of the following response:(1) to (3) Mr Cansdell refers to a mill at Ulmarra. The mill at Ulmarra is not a customer of Forests NSW. It is assumed Mr Cansdell has confused it with Jones Sawmilling at Tynedale near Grafton, which claims it has not been supplied in accordance with the specifications of its Wood Supply Agreement for salvage logs.Jones Sawmilling signed an agreement for 2,000 tonnes per annum. This constitutes one or two loads of logs per week. The mill also draws supplies from private property sources.The Jones Sawmilling Wood Supply Agreement allows for a proportion of the supply from Forests NSW to comprise highland species and plantation sourced timber. The mill has advised it does not want highland species and plantation wood for its flooring market. This restriction in effect reduces the mill's ability to accept the full volumes made available under the agreement it signed.Forests NSW is confident that it is complying with the terms of the Wood Supply Agreement and has advised Jones Sawmilling it is prepared to negotiate a proportion of smaller logs of his preferred species in lieu of the highland and plantation material.I am pleased Jones Sawmilling has accepted Forests NSW offer of further negotiations.If there have been job losses at the mill, they are not attributable to any failure by Forests NSW to meet its contractual commitments.A combination of factors, mainly wet weather, has resulted in reduced log supply to customers in North East Region early in 2006. It should be noted over 500mm or 25 inches of rain has fallen in North East Region in the past two months.Forests NSW is taking steps to address supply situations that arise from periods of excessive wet weather. These include the relocation of harvesting contractors and re-direction of supplies from other regions to maintain supplies.

*5483 HALL ALLEGATIONS—Mr Andrew Constance asked the Minister for Police—

(1) When will Mr Ian Hall of Dalmeny receive a response from the New South Wales Police Commissioner concerning allegations he has made against the New South Wales Government and the Ombudsman?

(2) Are you aware of the allegations that have been made, in particular concerns around statutory declarations?

(3) What is the nature of these complaints?(4) How would the New South Wales Police Commissioner handle such claims and how would it be

investigated?



(5) Are there other avenues available to Mr Hall to have his complaints further examined and investigated?

Answer—(1) to (5) A response was forwarded to Mr Hall from Superintendent Jeffrey Loy, Far South Coast Local

Area Commander on 20 March 2006. It should be noted that Mr Hall's allegations are not criminal in nature. NSW Police therefore has no legislative powers to investigate such matters. Mr Hall has been advised of this.

*5487 HOSPITAL NURSING POSITIONS—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) How many Full Time Equivalent positions for (a) Registered Nurses or (b) Enrolled Nurses are currently provided for in the staffing establishment of:(a) Batlow Hospital?(b) Boorowa Hospital?(c) Cootamundra Hospital?(d) Cowra Hospital?(e) Crookwell Hospital?(f) Goulburn Base Hospital?(g) Grenfell Hospital?(h) Gundagai Hospital?(i) Murrumburrah-Harden Hospital?(j) Tumut Hospital?(k) Yass Hospital?(l) Young Hospital?

(2) How many of these positions are currently filled?(3) On how many occasions in the past six months have (a) Registered Nursing or (b) Enrolled Nursing

staff been required to work double shifts to meet staffing requirements?Answer—The Minister for Health advises me:(1) The Department of Health routinely provides Statewide workforce data in its Annual Report.

Similarly, all Area Health Services publish localised workforce data in their Annual Reports.(2) At any one time most hospitals operate with a degree of nursing staff vacancies. However, where

vacancies exist, temporary qualified staff are employed pending recruitment to these positions. Area Health Services will continue to actively recruit to vacant nursing positions.

(3) The Greater Southern and Greater Western Area Health Services advise that databases currently in use do not generate double-shift data.

*5489 HOSPITAL CREDITORS—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

What are the amounts as at March 2006 on an aged creditor basis (ie current 45 days and over 45 days) owing to all creditors including contractors, suppliers, consultants, etc. at the following hospitals:(1) Hornsby Hospital?(2) Neringah Hospital?Answer—(1) and (2) All businesses have creditors at any point in time. It is NSW Health policy that Area Health

Services are expected to manage their budgets and pay suppliers invoices within 45 days of invoice or as per the terms of the contract. The 45 day benchmark compares favourably to the recent (June 2005) Australian industry average of 56 days of payment of creditors. Clients of Area Health Services are provided with financial and performance information through the publication and release of each Area's Annual Reports.Neringah Hospital is a private health facility owned by Hope Healthcare, a Ministry of the Anglican Deaconess Institution Sydney.

*5490 INCREASE IN CARRIAGES—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

(1) Have carriages been added to trains travelling from Berowra to Central Station to improve the ability of passengers to board them?



(2) If so, to which trains and how many carriages have been added per journey?Answer—I am advised:(1) and (2) As I announced on 12 October 2005, from 17 October 2005 two carriages were added to the

7.57am Berowra to Central service making it an eight car service.

*5495 CRONULLA SCHOOL MAINTENANCE—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What was the amount of expenditure in respect of school maintenance spent in the Cronulla electorate?

(2) Which schools benefited from this expenditure?Answer—Maintenance funds are provided both through Statewide maintenance contracts and global funding provided directly to individual schools.Cronulla schools will benefit from the Department of Education and Training's new $600 million, four year maintenance contracts which commenced in July 2005 and provide for both preventative and programmed maintenance for schools across NSW. The new contracts include an even greater number of repair items which are provided at no cost to schools.Regular independent condition assessments are undertaken at each school and maintenance priorities are determined in consultation with the school principal.The Department also allocates global funding to schools for a range of purposes including day-to-day maintenance. This would include minor repairs such as repairs to bathroom fittings and electrical appliances which are not covered by the maintenance contracts.

*5496 CRONULLA BUSINESSES—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra—

What assistance has been provided to assist businesses in Cronulla on or after 5 March 2006?Answer—I am advised:The NSW Government has provided assistance to Cronulla businesses through its funding of the St George-Sutherland Business Advisory Service, which has a significant number of clients in the Cronulla area, and holds regular business events such as seminars, workshops and networking opportunities.Business Development Managers are also available to visit small business operators in the Cronulla area to provide advice and assistance on improving and growing their business.On 22 December 2005 the NSW Government launched a Back to Business Recovery Plan to help local businesses build their trade. The Business Recovery Plan complemented the NSW Government's $250,000 Welcome to our Beaches marketing and advertising campaign.The Back to Business Recovery Plan included a number of measures:• the launch of a business help line to respond to business inquiries and help direct free advice and

assistance and• the establishment of a team of business advisors to help meet businesses face-to-face as they rebuild

trade.

*5497 MUIRFIELD HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Wayne Merton asked the Minister for Education and Training—

How much was spent on maintenance for Muirfield High School in each year, 1995-2005 inclusive?Answer—The Department of Education and Training provides maintenance funds through Statewide maintenance contracts. It also provides global funding directly to individual schools, for a range of purposes, including day-to-day maintenance such as repairs to bathroom fittings and electrical appliances, which are not covered by the maintenance contracts.Muirfield High School will benefit from the Department's new $600 million, four-year maintenance contracts, which commenced from July 2005 and provide for both preventative and programmed maintenance. The new contracts include an even greater number of repair items which are provided at no cost to schools.



*5498 BAULKHAM HILLS HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Wayne Merton asked the Minister for Education and Training—

How much was spent on maintenance for Baulkham Hills High School in each year, 1995-2005 inclusive?Answer—Maintenance funds are provided both through statewide maintenance contracts and global funding provided directly to individual schools.Baulkham Hills High School will benefit from the Department's new $600 million, four year maintenance contracts which commenced from July 2005 and provide for both preventive and programmed maintenance. The new contracts include an even greater number of repair items which are provided at no cost to schools.Regular, independent condition assessments are undertaken at each school and maintenance priorities are determined in consultation with the school principal.The Department also allocates global funding to schools for a range of purposes including day-to-day maintenance. This would include minor repairs such as repairs to bathroom fittings and electrical appliances which are not covered by the maintenance contracts.

*5499 SCHOOL BUS SPEEDING—Mr Barry O'Farrell asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

How many State Transit bus drivers have:(1) Been booked by the police for speeding in school zones during the period of:

(a) 1 July 1999 to 30 June 2000?(b) 1 July 2000 to 30 June 2001?(c) 1 July 2001 to 30 June 2002?(d) 1 July 2002 to 30 June 2003?(e) 1 July 2003 to 30 June 2004?(f) 1 July 2004 to 30 June 2005?(g) Since 1 July 2005?

(2) Been officially cautioned by the police for speeding in school zones during the period of:(a) 1 July 1999 to 30 June 2000?(b) 1 July 2000 to 30 June 2001?(c) 1 July 2001 to 30 June 2002?(d) 1 July 2002 to 30 June 2003?(e) 1 July 2003 to 30 June 2004?(f) 1 July 2004 to 30 June 2005?(g) Since 1 July 2005?

(3) Received official warnings by schools for speeding in school zones during the period of:(a) 1 July 1999 to 30 June 2000?(b) 1 July 2000 to 30 June 2001?(c) 1 July 2001 to 30 June 2002?(d) 1 July 2002 to 30 June 2003?(e) 1 July 2003 to 30 June 2004?(f) 1 July 2004 to 30 June 2005?(g) Since 1 July 2005?

(4) Been disciplined by State Transit for speeding in school zones during the period of:(a) 1 July 1999 to 30 June 2000?(b) 1 July 2000 to 30 June 2001?(c) 1 July 2001 to 30 June 2002?(d) 1 July 2002 to 30 June 2003?(e) 1 July 2003 to 30 June 2004?(f) 1 July 2004 to 30 June 2005?(g) Since 1 July 2005?

Answer—I am advised:(1) (a) 0



(b) 0(c) 0(d) 0(e) 5(f) 6(g) 0

(2) This matter falls within the portfolio responsibilities of the Minister for Police and should be referred accordingly. If a Police Officer issues a verbal caution to a bus operator, State Transit is not notified.(3) State Transit is not aware of any authority schools have to issue "Official Warnings".(4) State Transit disciplines any bus operator for speeding in school zones by requiring drivers to pay any fines received.

*5500 CITYRAIL CAR SERVICES—Mr Barry O'Farrell asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

In relation to CityRail scheduled services, how many were:(1) 4-car services during the period of:

(a) Morning peak on 7 March 2006?(b) Evening peak on 7 March 2006?(c) Morning peak on 7 March 2005?(d) Evening peak on 7 March 2005?

(2) 6-car services during the period of:(a) Morning peak on 7 March 2006?(b) Evening peak on 7 March 2006?(c) Morning peak on 7 March 2005?(d) Evening peak on 7 March 2005?

(3) 8-car services during the period of:(a) Morning peak on 7 March 2006?(b) Evening peak on 7 March 2006?(c) Morning peak on 7 March 2005?(d) Evening peak on 7 March 2005?

Answer—I am advised:(1) to (3)• In March 2005 there were 2635 weekday services on the CityRail network.• In March 2006, there were 2365 weekday services on the CityRail network.• The new CityRail timetable, introduced in September 2005, removed 270 services, mostly low-

patronage off-peak services. This has allowed more recovery time from incidents and minimised the flow-on effect between the peaks.

*5501 CITYRAIL SERVICES—Mr Barry O'Farrell asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

In regards to CityRail, what were the number of train services run on the following dates:(a) 22 November 2004?(b) 20 November 2004?(c) 22 November 2003?(d) 21 November 2003?(e) 23 November 2002?(f) 22 November 2002?(g) 24 November 2001?(h) 22 November 2001?(i) 25 November 2000?(j) 22 November 2000?

Answer—I am advised:Data relevant to these questions is not recorded.



*5504 LANE COVE TUNNEL OPTIONS—Mr Anthony Roberts asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

Was the New South Wales Government presented with a three lane, each way, tunnel option for the Lane Cove tunnel?Answer—I am advised:The provision of three lanes for the full length of the Lane Cove Tunnel was carefully considered during the Environmental Impact Assessment phase of the project.It was found that a three lane eastbound configuration over the full length of the tunnel would exacerbate congestion on the approaches to the Sydney Harbour Crossing.It should be noted the tunnel will be three lanes for significant sections. For example, going east, away from the city, the tunnel will start as a two lane road and become a three lane tunnel from where the Pacific Highway lane connects up and all the way to the tunnel exit.Construction includes the provision of a stub tunnel so the eastbound tunnel can be further widened when appropriate.

*5505 LANE COVE TUNNEL—Mr Anthony Roberts asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

Why did the New South Wales Government sign off on a two lane, each way, tunnel at Lane Cove and not a three lane, each way, tunnel?Answer—I am advised:The provision of three lanes for the full length of the Lane Cove Tunnel was carefully considered during the Environmental Impact Assessment phase of the project.It was found that a three lane eastbound configuration over the full length of the tunnel would exacerbate congestion on the approaches to the Sydney Harbour Crossing.It should be noted the tunnel will be three lanes for significant sections. For example, going east, away from the city, the tunnel will start as a two lane road and become a three lane tunnel from where the Pacific Highway lane connects up and all the way to the tunnel exit.Construction includes the provision of a stub tunnel so the eastbound tunnel can be further widened when appropriate.

*5506 EPPING ROAD BUS LANE—Mr Anthony Roberts asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

Will the Minister support the introduction of a joint bus lane⁄T2 dedicated lane along Epping Road following the opening of the Lane Cove tunnel?Answer—I am advised:A number of changes which are in the public domain were contemplated in the planning process, including:• transit lanes on the widened Gore Hill Freeway;• a new bus interchange near Longueville Road; and• reconfiguration of Epping Road to provide bus lanes.I am further advised:In early 2002 Lane Cove Council supported the construction of the Lane Cove Tunnel on the condition that Epping Road was reconfigured.

*5507 CROSS CITY TUNNEL LEGAL ADVICE—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—



In relation to the legal advice provided to the New South Wales Government regarding the Cross City Tunnel:(1) What was the budgeted cost for legal advice for:

(a) 2002-03?(b) 2003-04?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2005-06?

(2) What is the actual cost for legal advice for:(a) 2002-03?(b) 2003-04?(c) 2004-05?(d) 2005-06?

(3) What firms and representatives, listed by name, were engaged for legal advice?(4) Is any money still outstanding on said advice? If so, what are the details of the amounts owed?Answer—I am advised:Details of expenditure on professional services and consultants are reported in the RTA's annual reports.

*5508 MACLEAY RIVER FISHING—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

Given community concerns about overfishing on the Macleay River, particularly since the closure to commercial fishing on the nearby Hastings River, what are your plans to address this situation?Answer—I am advised by the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries and Minister for Mineral Resources of the following response:The Hastings River was closed to Commercial fishing during the establishment of Recreational Fishing Havens. Commercial fishers were bought out as part of this process in the areas where recreational fishing havens were established.Commercial fishers presently operating in the Macleay River are endorsed in the estuary general fishery, which has been assessed as complying with state and commonwealth environmental laws and meeting exporting requirements. In particular, there are various closures in place in the Macleay River that restrict which fishing methods may be used, and the times in which fishers may operate.

*5509 WATER CHARGES FOR HOUSING TENANTS—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

In relation to the policy of charging public housing tenants for water:(1) Why are tenants of units which are separately metered being charged an average amount for water,

rather than for the water they actually use?(2) Why are such tenants charged in advance, rather than charged after the event for water they actually

use?(3) Is it lawful to charge tenants for water they have not actually used?Answer—(1) Water charges are being introduced in a phased manner. All tenants currently pay 4.1% of their net

rent each week as a contribution towards water usage costs met by the Department of Housing. In the second half of 2006, tenants of Department of Housing dwellings that are separately metered and for which water usage information is available to the Department will pay for the water they actually use.

(2) Revised billing arrangements are currently being developed for those tenants subject to actual water usage charging.

(3) Section 19A of Residential Tenancies Amendment (Social Housing) Act provides that tenants may be charged in this way.

8 MARCH 2006



(Paper No. 168)

*5510 BLACKTOWN AND MOUNT DRUITT COMMUNITY HEALTH SERVICES—Mr Richard Amery asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) How many clients were seen by the Blacktown and Mount Druitt Community Health Services for the year 2005?

(2) How does this figure compare with the three previous years?(3) How many of the above clients were seeking treatment for mental health-related issues?Answer—(1) 13,548 (2) 2004 - 11,379

2003 - 11,5942002 - 11,043NB: The above number of clients seen at the Community Health Centres include not just services provided by Mental Health staff but also services provided by Community Health Counsellors and Nursing staff. A significant numbers of these clients were provided interventions for mental health issues including: Depression; Post Natal Depression; Post Traumatic Stress; Panic and Anxiety; Suicidal Ideation; low level mental health problems; Obsessive Compulsive Disorder; Oppositional Defiance Disorder, Grief ⁄ bereavement issues, and for similar circumstances.

(3) Specific Mental Health Services provision to clients were as follows:2005 - 3,6252004 - 1,4522003 - 1,3062002 - 1,620NB: The rise in figures from 2004 to 2005 can be attributed to improved data collection. The Sydney West Area Health Service is currently in the process of implementing a state-wide standard data collection system.

*5512 CONVENTION AND BUSINESS EVENT BIDS—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

(1) Since 1 January 2001, how many Conferences or Business Events has the Sydney Visitor and Convention Bureau been involved in bidding for?

(2) How many of these Conferences or Business Events have been won for NSW?Answer—(1) 333 bids submitted.(2) 214 won.

*5514 MENTAL HEALTH CASE MANAGERS—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) How many patients with a mental illness, who are attached to the Hornsby Hospital Mental Health Unit, have a case manager in the Hornsby electorate?

(2) What is the criteria for a patient to be allocated to a case manager?Answer—The Minister for Health advises me:(1) Case managers are currently attending to 576 patients. (2) A person will be offered case management (care co-ordination) if they satisfy the following criteria:

• have a diagnosis of mental disorder, AND • experience lifestyle difficulties as a result of mental disorder; AND⁄OR • there is a potential for at risk behaviours that could result in harm to self and⁄or others; OR • if a person requires assistance and⁄or support to access primary care and mainstream health

services for the treatment of their mental disorder or its associated issues and⁄or intervention.



*5515 PENNANT HILLS COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTRE—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) Is the Mental Health section of the Pennant Hills Community Health Centre closing and relocating to the Hornsby Hospital site?

(2) If so, when?Answer—The Minster for Health advises me:(1) No.(2) N⁄A.

*5519 M7 TOLLWAY WIDENING—Mr John Turner asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) Is there provision to widen the M7 tollway at a future date if necessary?(2) If so, what would be the maximum provision allowed for the increase in laneways?Answer—I am advised:The M7 has been designed to allow widening for a public transport or additional traffic corridor.Space is available in the central median of the M7 and would accommodate at least a two-lane corridor.

*5520 FINANCIAL COUNSELLING—Mr John Turner asked the Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

(1) What is the total amount of grant monies provided by the Department of Fair Trading to providers of financial counselling?

(2) From what part of the Department of Fair Trading budget are any such grant monies drawn?(3) Who provides financial counselling pursuant to any grant received from the Department of Fair

Trading?(4) What is the amount each organisation receives for funding?Answer—I refer the honourable member to the annual report of the NSW Department of Commerce.

*5522 CRONULLA POLICE STATION—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Police—

What improvements will be made to Cronulla Police Station during 2006?Answer—The Ministry for Police has advised me that in the 2006-07 financial year, approximately $50,000 has been allocated for an air conditioning upgrade and a complete internal paint job at the Cronulla police station. In addition, ongoing normal maintenance including fire service, grounds maintenance, mechanical services, electrical services, plumbing services, cleaning, waste disposal and general reactive maintenance where required will be carried out.As stated previously, an ongoing program to deliver 27 new police stations over the next 5 years was announced in the budget papers of 2004-05. Cronulla is one of the locations included in this program.

*5523 OPERATION SETA—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Police—

How many police took part in Operation SETA?Answer—NSW Police has advised me:Rostered officer numbers varied day to day, based on operational intelligence.

*5524 MANAGED ALCOHOL PROGRAMS—Ms Clover Moore asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

With respect to the January 2006 Canadian Medical Association Journal (174(1)) report about a Managed Alcohol Program that dispensed specific doses of alcohol hourly to homeless chronic addicts in a supported accommodation service:(1) Is the Government aware of this study and its results?



(2) Did the study find significant health improvements for the homeless alcohol addicts with stabilised alcohol intake?

(3) Did the study report reduced emergency and hospital admissions and police interventions?(4) What is the Government's estimate of the cost benefit of providing a similar program in inner Sydney

to target homeless people with chronic alcohol addictions?(5) Will the Government review this evidence and reconsider its response to the Alcohol Summit

recommendation for Wet Centres for chronic street drinkers?(6) Given community concerns about street drinking and the costs to Police, Ambulance, Councils,

health services, and homelessness services, what action will the Government take to provide a similar service in Sydney?

Answer—The Minister for Health advises me:(1) Yes(2) to (4) I am advised that the Canadian study found health improvements for the homeless alcohol addicts with stabilized alcohol intake based only on interviews undertaken with the clients and client workers. There is no quantitative measurement of actual health outcomes and the results are only based on client's perceived health and worker feedback. While this is indeed informative, such research techniques do not provide the full picture regarding health outcomes and should be treated with caution.NSW Health acknowledges that the study reported reduced emergency and hospital admissions and police interventions. However, I am advised that an initial assessment indicates the model is extremely resource intensive and other options to achieve similar results would need to be examined to accurately understand the cost benefit of the implementation of such a program in NSW.(5) NSW Health is not convinced that the evidence is available to suggest that Wet Centres are the most effective approach to helping chronic street drinkers who often have challenging, long-standing problems, which can be extremely difficult to deal with.The options for helping chronic street drinkers were discussed at the NSW Alcohol Summit in 2003. The provision of Wet Centres was rejected by the Government in favour of providing supported accommodation and homelessness services with the opportunity for long-term rehabilitation, to street drinkers.(6) The Government is currently undertaking a range of initiatives to address the community concerns about street drinking and the health and social consequences for homeless people.• NSW Health provides a range of facilities through Area Health Services, such as the Langton Centre

in Surry Hills and Gorman House at St Vincent's Hospital that offer Drug and Alcohol services to homeless people.

• NSW Health also funds a range of non-government organisations to provide health services to homeless people. These services are often provided within facilities targeted towards helping homeless people and include nursing clinics, which provide mental health and drug and alcohol treatment and referral, detoxification services and residential rehabilitation. Some examples of facilities that provide these services in the inner city area include The Station Ltd, Foster House and The Haymarket Foundation.

• In addition, Sydney South West Area Health Service has developed co-operative care service protocols with the City of Sydney, Mental Health Services and Drug and Alcohol Services for people who are homeless.

*5525 THE ROCKS POLICE STATION—Ms Clover Moore asked the Minister for Police—

With regard to The Rocks Police Station:(1) Is only a skeleton crew now operating from these premises, with the Commander and all other

officers moved to Surry Hills?(2) What action has the Government taken to provide appropriate facilities for The Rocks Local Area

Command?(3) When will the facility be completed?Answer—The Ministry for Police has advised me:(1) Staff of The Rocks Local Area Command are operating from the Rocks Police Station, ground floor.(2) The current Rocks Police Station is undergoing renovations.(3) The completion date of renovations will be determined in conjunction with the building owner.



*5526 MEDICALLY SUPERVISED INJECTION CENTRE—Ms Clover Moore asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

With regard to the January 2006 British Medical Journal report on a scientifically rigorous before and after study of the Vancouver Injecting Centre, which identified that the facility did not encourage drug use:(1) Is the Government aware of this study?(2) Did the study find that there was a substantial reduction in binge drug use and reduced risk behaviour

after the facility opened?(3) Did the study report reduced public injecting and discarded syringes in public areas?(4) If so, is this consistent with the experience of the Kings Cross Medically Supervised Injecting Centre

(MSIC)?(5) Did the study also report reduced needle sharing and reduced risk of HIV and Hepatitis infection as a

result of access to the supervised injecting facility?(6) What is the latest evidence from the independent evaluation of the Kings Cross MSIC?(7) Given community concerns about an MSIC delaying entry into treatment, what barriers has the

Kings Cross MSIC identified to helping drug users getting off drugs?Answer—The Minister for Health advises me:(1) to (7) I am advised that the study of the Vancouver Injecting Centre found that there was a substantial reduction in participants commencing "binge drug use" in a 12 month period which included the opening of the facility compared with a 12 month period before the facility opened. However, the study did not find a reduction in:• risk behaviour;• public injecting and discarded syringes; or• needle sharing and reduced risk of HIV and hepatitis infection as a result of access to the supervised

injecting facility;between the two periods, but referred to such findings in previously reported studies.In relation to the Medically Supervised Injecting Centre (MSIC) in Kings Cross, I am advised that the initial evaluation found that there was a reduction in public injecting and syringes discarded in public places following the opening of the MSIC and that nearly half the MSIC clients reported that their injecting practices had become less risky since using the MSIC.This evaluation also found that the MSIC client group were more likely than other injectors to report that they had started treatment for drug dependence, and that there was sufficient evidence to conclude that the MSIC acted as a gateway to drug treatment. Clinical staff of the MSIC have reported that, as a general rule, the proportion of long term, dependent drug users who are motivated to seek treatment at any one time is relatively small.The most recent evaluation report, done by the National Centre for HIV Epidemiology and Clinical Research and released in March 2006, showed that the MSIC had been effective in increasing access to health and social welfare services, it had been effective in reducing street injecting and it had continued to be effective in reducing or managing overdoses deaths.

*5528 SAAP EMERGENCY ACCOMMODATION—Ms Clover Moore asked the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—

Regarding the provision of emergency accommodation in the inner city funded through the Supported Accommodation Assistance (SAAP) Program:(1) How many emergency beds for homeless women are provided in the inner city?(2) Are there sufficient SAAP beds for women who are homeless and in crisis?(3) Are SAAP services under financial pressure due to insufficient funding, rising service costs, and

higher demand for emergency accommodation?(4) What increase in funds did the Commonwealth evaluation identify was required to maintain SAAP

service viability?(5) Has the Commonwealth Government provided additional funds to provide for cost increases and for

planned growth in the SAAP program?(6) Have funding problems had an impact on service delivery in NSW?(7) If so, what impact?(8) What action has the Government taken to advocate with the Commonwealth Government for



additional funds for SAAP?(9) What action has the Government taken to increase its allocation of funds for emergency

accommodation services in the SAAP program?Answer—(1)There are a total of six organisations offering crisis accommodation to single women in the inner city, with a combined capacity of 68 beds.(2) to (4) These issues are discussed in the SAAP IV National Evaluation Report. Please refer to that report. It can be found at the Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs website (www.facs.gov.au).(5) The Commonwealth Government did not agree to provide growth funding for SAAP under the new SAAP V Agreement.(6) and (7) Please refer to the response to questions 2-4.(8) As Minister for Community Services, I personally met with the Commonwealth Minister during SAAP V negotiations to press for a fair share of Commonwealth resources for NSW. Over a 10 month period from December 2004 to October 2005, my Department's SAAP V negotiators also attempted to negotiate additional resources for NSW. As a result, the NSW Government was able to secure an additional $2 million worth of SAAP funds.(9) In 2002⁄03, the NSW Government increased its funding to SAAP by more than $12 million. More than $10 million of these funds were unmatched by the Commonwealth Government. This additional unmatched NSW contribution represents an increase in the NSW contribution to SAAP of almost 20%. NSW remains the only state to contribute a higher amount than that contributed by the Commonwealth Government.

*5529 SENIORS INFORMATION SERVICE—Ms Clover Moore asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

In relation to the tender contracted to provide the Seniors Information Service (SIS) at the end of 2005:(1) Did a non-profit community organisation run by older people previously run the SIS service? (2) Is it now operated by a for-profit call centre with no connection to older people?

(a) What were the tender criteria? (b) Was the tender selected only on the basis of cost?

(3) (a) Did the Government provide additional funds for the call centre to develop scripts as the organisation had no existing knowledge of older people's needs and services? (b) What funds were provided for this purpose?

(4) Will callers to this new service only be referred to other services and not be given help from the SIS? (5) Will older people who call this service only be allocated 15 seconds for the help they require? (6) How will this service contribute to active participation by older people in decisions about their lives

and to strong community support amongst older people? (7) How will the Government ensure that older people receive a quality service from the SIS? Answer—(1) The Seniors Information Service was previously contracted to the Council on the Ageing (COTA), a

not-for-profit peak body on ageing. COTA is not exclusively staffed by older people (who are the target group for this service), and operated the service on a commercial basis under a formal (non-recurrent) funding agreement with the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care.

(2) (a) The Department engaged the Department of Commerce to manage an independent tender process, following an external review of the service in 2004. A formal public tender was required, given the size of the contract and the number of potential providers, consistent with the Government's procurement policy. The selection criteria were:

• An understanding of the aims and objectives of the service and the needs of older people;

• Demonstrated experience and expertise in providing a similar service on the required scale;

• Human Resource availability, capacity, skills and experience, particularly in relation to key staff utilised for the purposes of the service;

• Quality and availability of backup and support services;



• Tenderer's current commitments and availability to undertake the service for the term specified;

• The adequacy of the telephone and related communications system including capacity to record data and report on calls;

• Tenderer's proposed training plan; • Provision of a project plan with specific timeframes for implementation; • Quality management systems in place; • Degree of compliance with the technical and contractual requirements of the tender; • Financial capacity to perform the contract; • Compliance with applicable Government Procurement Policies, legislation and

standards; • Existing or potential capacity to fit with the Government's Better Service Delivery

program, and • Pricing considerations and value for money.

The tender evaluation was conducted in an appropriate manner and resulted in the contract being awarded to Quantum MultiMedia Pty Ltd, trading as Link:Q. Link:Q completely satisfied the tender evaluation panel and the Department's Director-General that it provided the greatest value for money in operating this service. Link:Q started delivering the service on 1 February 2006.(b) Consistent with usual tendering practice, the selection criteria were weighted when evaluating proposals. In this case, the quality and capacity to deliver criteria were weighted evenly with price (50% each), to assess overall value for money.

(3) (a) No. However, as was the case with the previous provider, Link:Q does use standard answers where appropriate, to ensure a consistently high level of service.

(b) No additional funds have been provided to prepare scripts - these are part of the usual quality management practice of the organisation.

(4) The Seniors Information Service provides information and referrals to callers. It does not and should not provide advice to callers on any matter, especially health, financial or legal matters. It would be inappropriate for any service to provide advice to older people without relevant professional training. Consistent with the practice of the previous provider, callers are given the names and contact details of services in their area who may be able to provide appropriate resources or advice. In some instances, written information is posted to callers containing background information relevant to their request, as well as contacts for them to follow up.(5) No. There are not time limits on calls to the Seniors Information Service. The contract with the new provider specifically states that callers will be given an adequate amount of time to articulate their request and pursue options, and staff have been trained accordingly.(6) Senior Information Service staff have been briefed on the likely needs of callers (based on previous call data), including requests for information on volunteering, planning ahead, social clubs and concessions as well as contact details for Seniors Week and Seniors Card. The emphasis throughout the service has been and will continue to be on encouraging active community participation and involvement.(7) The Department will ensure a high quality of service to older people through strong contract and relationship management with the provider. This includes monitoring call data and response times, and verifying that staff receive ongoing training. Arrangements have already been made to link the provider into a substantial information system in New South Wales that has been set up through the Better Service Delivery program, the Human Services Network (HSNet). This network contains information on government and non-government services throughout the State, including those that are relevant to older people. The Department's Office for Ageing will also ensure that the provider's staff are briefed on emerging issues for older people.

*5530 RAILCORP—NEW SAFETY PERFORMANCE REPORTING—Mr Barry O'Farrell asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

In consideration of RailCorp's current development of new statistical reporting groupings in respect of safety performance:(1) When is the projected date that CityRail safety performance statistics will be available under the new

groupings?(2) Given that safety incidents continue to be tracked, what are the figures for each of the months of

September 2005, October 2005, November 2005, December 2005, January 2006, and February 2006, using RailCorp's August 2005 definition of the following categories:



(a) Safety Incidents?(b) Collisions?(c) Derailments?(d) Falls?(e) Strikes?(f) Fire⁄Explosion?

Answer—I am advised:(1)-(2) Verification of new safety data is currently being undertaken. It is anticipated that safety statistics for January and February will be available from late April 2006, and monthly from then onwards.

*5531 RAILCORP—ASBESTOS IN BUILDINGS AND COMPENSATION CLAIMS—Mr Barry O'Farrell asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

(1) How many buildings owned or operated by RailCorp contain asbestos?(2) What plans are in place to remove asbestos from RailCorp owned or operated buildings?(3) How many compensation claims have been made by RailCorp workers or contractors for exposure to

asbestos for the following periods:(a) 1 July 1999 to 30 June 2000?(b) 1 July 2000 to 30 June 2001?(c) 1 July 2001 to 30 June 2002?(d) 1 July 2002 to 30 June 2003?(e) 1 July 2003 to 30 June 2004?(f) 1 July 2004 to 30 June 2005?(g) Since 1 July 2005?

Answer—I am advised:(1) and (2) RailCorp has completed its schedule of priority testing for asbestos at CityRail stations.Following the identification of asbestos at Eastwood in early March, RailCorp identified 65 stations where asbestos material may have been disturbed by recent contract work.The area where work was undertaken has now been checked in all of these stations, in all cases air quality tests were clear, however at 12 sites remedial works were undertaken because traces of asbestos were detected in dust.Although the priority testing is now complete RailCorp will continue to undertake remedial works as required.Following completion of the priority testing program RailCorp is developing a staged plan for a comprehensive assessment of all station and building assets and will update its asbestos register accordingly. This process could take up to 12 months to complete to ensure all assets are carefully assessed. Where an assessment determines that asbestos should be removed, it will be removed in accordance with the National Standards. (3) RailCorp commenced in 2004, and to date, there have been no compensation claims made by RailCorp workers⁄contractors for exposure to asbestos.However since 1999 there have been 87 claims received by StateRail.

July 1999 - 2000 8

2000 - 2001 19

2001 - 2002 25

2002 - 2003 15

2003 - 2004 5

2004 - 2005 14

Since July 1st 2005 1



*5532 LANE COVE TUNNEL TOLL—Mr Anthony Roberts asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

Will the Minister support the reduction, to say $2.00, of the proposed toll to be charged for use of the Lane Cove tunnel?Answer—I am advised:Contracts for tollways set a maximum toll an operator can charge - to protect motorists. No minimum toll is set.The Environmental Impact Statement for the approved Lane Cove Tunnel project stated that the toll would be $2.00 (in 1999 dollars) subject to inflation.

*5533 LANE COVE TUNNEL FILTRATION—Mr Anthony Roberts asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

Will the Minister support the filtration of the Lane Cove tunnel?Answer—As advised by the former Minister for Roads, if the Federal Government were to increase its offer of $10 million for filtration to a commitment totalling half of the cost, via a special purpose grant, the RTA would be directed to hold discussions with the Lane Cove Tunnel Company about raising the other half.

*5534 FIXED SPEED CAMERAS—Mr George Souris asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

What is the total revenue raised from infringements at the following fixed speed camera locations for the 12 months ended 28 February 2006:

New England Highway, Murrurundi?New England Highway, Wallabadah?New England Highway, Blandford?New England Highway, Lochinvar?New England Highway, Scone?

Answer—I am advised this information is not available to the Roads and Traffic Authority.I am further advised revenue figures for individual fixed speed cameras is a matter for the Treasurer.

*5535 LONG DISTANCE TRUCK DRIVER FATIGUE—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

Given that the Occupational Health and Safety Amendment (Long Distance Truck Driver Fatigue) Regulation 2005 requires employers to have in place Driver Fatigue Management Plans, what are the Government's plans in relation to increasing the number of truck stops on the Pacific Highway from the current 14 listed on the Roads and Traffic web site?Answer—I am advised:There has been considerable progress in providing stopping and rest opportunities for heavy vehicle drivers.There are now 60 stopping and rest opportunities for trucks along the Pacific Highway and further sites planned. The Roads and Traffic Authority website is currently being updated.




*5537 ABALONE INDUSTRY—Mr Andrew Constance asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

(1) On what date will you meet with representatives from the abalone industry and estuary fishers to discuss their concerns about resource management?

(2) When will Region One be reopened for the abalone industry?(3) What are managers within the department doing to redress the severe impact their decisions have had

on the industry?Answer—I am advised by the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries and Minister for Mineral Resources of the following response:(1) I have met with representatives of the abalone and estuary fisheries on numerous occasions,

including meeting with abalone representatives in Merimbula in late 2005.(2) The Department of Primary Industries is working with industry to implement a rigorous scientific

sampling program to assess the status of the stock in Region 1, which was closed due to the Perkinsus parasite.

(3) The NSW Government will continue to work collaboratively with industry to help address the challenges affecting the abalone fishery.

*5538 MARITIME SURVEYS—Mr Andrew Constance asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

(1) What was the cost of maritime surveys in 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005 for 12m, 15m, 18m, 24m, and 30m vessels?

(2) What are the accomodation and travel costs for vessel owners for surveys conducted in Ulladulla, Batemans Bay, Narooma, Bermagui, Merimbula and Eden?

(3) Do vessels closer to Sydney incur less cost?(4) Why can't local licenced surveyors be used on the far south coast?Answer—I am advised:These matters fall within the portfolio responsibilities of the Minister for Ports and Waterways and should be referred accordingly.

*5539 PAMBULA BRIDGE—Mr Andrew Constance asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) Why do you hold local government responsible for the costing errors on Pambula Bridge? (2) Why isn't the Brushgrove intersection and Victoria Creek overtaking lane being constructed in

financial year 2005-06? Answer—I am advised:The Pambula Bridge project has been subject to a more detailed project investigation.Options for an overtaking lane approximately 1km north of Victoria Creek are currently being investigated by the RTA.

*5540 TOURISM INFORMATION CENTRES—Mr Andrew Constance asked the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

Will you provide funding to keep the Tourism Information Centres in Merimbula and Bega open?Answer—Tourism New South Wales support of Tourism Information Centres is through a State-wide accreditation and marketing program. Funding for individual Centres is the responsibility of Local Councils.Tourism New South Wales supports the State's network of Visitor Information Centres through an accreditation program and a range of initiatives to raise consumer awareness of the blue and yellow i sign. A town's Visitor Information Centre is supported through financial and other resources provided at the local level. Due to this State-wide policy Tourism New South Wales is not able to provide additional funding to support the Bega and Merimbula Visitor Information Centres.



However, Tourism New South Wales maintains a strong commitment to the South Coast RTO and other programs to develop and market tourism to Bega and surrounding areas.In 2002, the Eden Gateway Centre was opened with a $375,000 investment by the NSW Government. The NSW Government has provided $2 million over four years for the construction of the six regional Gateway Centres.The Centre promotes the local area and its surrounds and acts as a gateway to the State. As a regional facility, it provides an introduction to the South Coast and neighbouring tourism regions, highlighting the many attractions and encouraging visitors to stay longer and experience more. It offers 24 hour access to state of the art touch screen tourism information.

*5541 ACCOMMODATION ASSISTANCE—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

(1) How many Aboriginal students has the State Government assisted with accommodation costs in relation to such students undertaking their studies?

(2) What is the total amount applied to this purpose in each of the last five years?Answer—This question should be directed to the Hon Carmel Tebbutt MP, the Minister for Education, who has primary responsibility for all student-related matters.

*5542 GOVERNMENT FUNDING—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Education and Training—

How much has the State Government contributed to (a) Croc Fest (b) Rock Eisteddford in each of the last five years?Answer—The NSW Department of Education and Training has provided financial support totalling $190,000 to assist in meeting the cost of staging Croc Fest. This support comprised a contribution of $45,000 for each year for the period 2001 to 2003 and a one-off grant in 2005 totalling $55,000.According to the Department's financial records, no contributions have been made in respect of the Rock Eisteddfod over the last five years.

*5543 MANLY AND MONA VALE HOSPITALS—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) What numbers of patients have been treated at (a) Manly Hospital (b) Mona Vale Hospital in each of the last five years?

(2) What was the total budget of each of the above hospitals in each of the last five years?(3) What was the total number of days taken in (a) sick leave (b) stress leave at each hospital in each of

the years?Answer—The Minister for Health advises me:(1) to (3) inclusiveAll Area Health Services publish localised data in their Annual Reports. These Annual Reports are prepared in accordance with reporting guidelines and include activity, finance and workforce (including workers compensation) data. I refer the Honourable Member to the Annual Reports of the relevant Area Health Service.

*5544 STATE SIGNIFICANCE—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

In relation to Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, and State Environment Planning Policy (Major Projects) 2005 Clause 6 and Schedule 1, Clause 13:(1) What criteria will you use to determine whether or not a proposal is "of state significance"?(2) What processes will you use to make such a determination?(3) What strategies will you use to ensure that the process of determining "state significance" is

transparent, available to the public and consistently applied?(4) Will you allow any public input into the process?Answer—



(1) to (3) I am advised that the Department of Planning has prepared draft guidelines that include criteria that form the basis of recommendations to me regarding the State and Regional significance of projects. These draft guidelines are publicly available on request.(4) All projects considered under Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act provide for community input and its consideration.

*5545 TEACHER COUNSELLING—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) How many teachers have accessed psychiatric and⁄or counselling services offered by the Department in each of the last three years?

(2) What was the total cost of such services?Answer—(1) The Department of Education and Training offers all of its employees access to an Employee

Assistance Program (EAP), which provides counselling, advice and support. Due to the confidentiality of the program, the classification of employees using the services cannot be identified. The total numbers of Departmental employees who accessed the service in 2003, 2004 and 2005 were 2,869, 3,819 and 3,690 respectively.

(2) The Department has funded the Employee Assistance Program to the value of $976,004 in 2003, $816,506 in 2004 and $867,029 in 2005.

*5546 ASBESTOS IN SCHOOLS—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) How much money has been spent at each individual school in New South Wales to clean up asbestos?

(2) Have parents been notified at each of the schools inspected of the risk of asbestos to their children? If not why not? If so, was the advice given similar in all cases?

Answer—(1) Remediation projects worth over $10.8 million relating to fibro fragments identified in NSW

Government schools have been undertaken since 2003. A full list, detailing individual projects was made publicly available on 3 March 2006.

(2) The role of principals is critical to ensuring effective communication within school communities. School principals are consulted at all times during remediation projects and advised to undertake any appropriate communication with the school community. The Department of Education and Training reminds principals that school communities are to be consulted when such remedial work is undertaken.

*5547 TEACHER EXPERIENCE—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) In 2005 how many Government school teachers had over five years experience in teaching?(2) In 2004 how many Government school teachers had over five years experience in teaching?(3) In 2003 how many Government school teachers had over five years experience in teaching?(4) In 2002 how many Government school teachers had over five years experience in teaching?(5) In 2001 how many Government school teachers had over five years experience in teaching?(6) In 1995 how many Government school teachers had over five years experience in teaching?Answer—The percentage of government school teachers with over five years experience as a permanent teacher was:

79.0% in 200577.6% in 200476.6% in 200375.2% in 200277.2% in 2001

Data for 1995 are not available.Many permanent teachers gain considerable experience as temporary or casual teachers prior to appointment to a permanent position.

*5548 DISABLED STUDENTS—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) How much has the Government spent on improving school facilities to accommodate disabled students in each of the last five years?

(2) At which schools were the facilities improved to accommodate disabled students in each of the last



five years and what was the total expenditure in each school?Answer—(1) and (2) The NSW Department of Education and Training is committed to the removal of physical access barriers so that students and staff with disabilities can gain entry and participate in education, training and employment opportunities.All new schools built in the last decade are fully accessible. The Department also requires full accessibility in schools undergoing major upgrades. Smaller minor capital works projects are also undertaken in existing schools as part of the Integration Program.More than $69.72 million has been allocated for integration projects across schools in the last five years as follows:

2001⁄2002: 258 schools2002⁄2003: 199 schools2003⁄2004: 187 schools2004⁄2005: 124 schools2005⁄2006: 199 schools.

*5549 SCHOOL VISITS—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What Government schools have you visited in the last 12 months, by name?(2) What non-Government⁄Private⁄Independent⁄Catholic schools have you visited in the last 12 months,

by name?Answer—(1) and (2) From February 2005 to February 2006 inclusive, I visited 65 Government and non-Government schools.

*5550 SNOWY MOUNTAINS HIGHWAY—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) Will you confirm that the work to install a right turning traffic lane on the Snowy Mountains Highway at the Talbingo intersection will also include work to remove the existing merging lane for left turning traffic from Talbingo?

(2) Are you aware that the residents of Talbingo consider the loss of the left turning merging lane to be inherently dangerous, given the speed of traffic travelling on the Snowy Mountains Highway and lack of visibility at this intersection?

(3) Although, in November 2005, representatives of the RTA gave a commitment to Talbingo residents that their concerns would be considered and a response provided before work commenced, why has the RTA not responded to local concerns?

(4) Will you immediately amend the work scheduled to take the concerns of Talbingo residents into account and retain the existing left turn merging lane?

Answer—I am advised:Work on the Snowy Mountains Highway includes the removal of a widened shoulder being used by traffic from Talbingo as a left turn merge lane. This was identified as a safety concern by the RTA as the shoulder provides inadequate merge length and sight distance for vehicles to safely merge with Highway traffic.The new junction will provide safe intersection sight distance with traffic exiting from Talbingo required to give way to through traffic, in line with most junctions on the Snowy Mountains Highway.

*5552 LOCAL HEALTH SERVICE ADVISORY COMMITTEES—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) Has the Greater Southern Area Health Service established and filled positions on Local Health Service Advisory Committees?

(2) As the Greater Southern Area Health Service has now been operating for more than 14 months, what is the reason for the delay in establishing these committees?

(3) In absence of Local Health Service Advisory Committees, will you name the specific community representatives that have been consulted about local issues by the Greater Southern Area Health Services since 1 January 2005?



Answer—The Minister for Health advises me:(1) to (3)On 26 October 2005 I announced the appointment of the members of the Greater Southern Area Health Advisory Council. One of the key objectives of this newly appointed Council is the formation of Local Area Health Service Advisory Committees.I am advised that since my announcement the Greater Southern Area Health Service has established 28 Local Health Service Advisory Committees across the Area, with an additional 15 Committees being recruited to. I understand that further Committees will be established and recruited to as local communities specify their establishment preferences.

*5553 RIOT TACTICS TRAINING—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Police—

How many police have been trained in riot tactics in the Ku-ring-gai Local Area Command?Answer—NSW Police has advised me that the Kuring-Gai Local Area Command currently has attached to it:• 15 Operations Support Group Operatives;• 4 Weapons Instructors; and• 9 Probationary Constables who have completed Public Order Management Protective Equipment

Training.

*5554 PEAT ISLAND SEWERAGE TREATMENT PLANT—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) What is the quality of the treated sullage at the sewerage treatment plant at Peat Island?(2) How often is the plant examined for acceptable standards of the contents of the outlet?Answer—(1) and (2) These questions fall within the Portfolio responsibilities of the Minister for Ageing and Minister for Disability Services.

*5558 SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES AWARD—Ms Clover Moore asked the Premier, Minister for State Development, and Minister for Citizenship—

Given that the decision of the NSW Industrial Relations Commission on 3 March for a new Social and Community Services (SACS) Award covering most not-for-profit human services employees in NSW provides for a salary increase of 10.5% over three years commencing 1 July 2006:(1) Will the NSW Government commit to increasing funding to cover these additional service costs

across all portfolios?(2) Will the Government immediately begin discussions with the Australian Services Union and peak

bodies such as the NCOSS to identify the cost and impact on funded organisations?(3) Will the Government ensure that Government funded human service providers are able to maintain

services while also complying with legal requirements for salary increases?Answer—(1) Each year, the NSW Government Budget includes a provision for annual indexation of certain non

government organisations (NGOs). This recognises that NGOs that receive funding contributions from the Government may face cost increases due to factors including wage movements.

(2) The Government meets regularly with our NGO partners and NCOSS and recognises the essential role of non government organisations in service provision. The approach taken to developing the NSW Budget reflects this.

(3) In 2001 the Government provided supplementation to NGOs to assist them in meeting the costs associated with the making of a new award. For some organisations this package resulted in supplementation of over 20% on their funding base. An agreement from the process in 2001 was that the indexation calculation for human service funded NGOs would be refined to better reflect movements in wages for the sector. That change has assisted NGOs in meeting other wage rises that have occurred in recent years impacting on SACS award employees.The Government contributes towards the cost of NGO award increases via the indexation provisions of the relevant grants funding programs.



*5559 SYDNEY METROPOLITAN PRIVATE BUS CONTRACTS—Mr Barry O'Farrell asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

In relation to the Sydney metropolitan private bus contracts:(1) How many applications have the Ministry of Transport considered since 1 January 2005 for

additional Revenue Kilometres for Dedicated School Services?(2) How many applications have been approved?(3) How many have been declined?(4) What has been the average length of time to respond to these applications?Answer—I am advised:(1) to (4) The Ministry of Transport has not received any applications for additional Revenue Kilometres for Dedicated School Services since 1 January 2005.

*5560 SYDNEY BUSES OVERTIME PAYMENTS—Mr Barry O'Farrell asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

In relation to State Transit:What was the amount of overtime paid to bus drivers at each of the following Sydney Buses depots in each of the months of February 2005, March 2005, February 2006, and March 2006:

(a) Waverley?(b) Randwick?(c) Port Botany?

Answer—I am advised:(a) to (c) The amount of overtime paid to bus drivers at Waverly, Randwick and Port Botany during February 2005, March 2005, February 2006 and March 2006 was $1,706,000.

*5561 AIRPORT LINK COMPENSATION—Mr Barry O'Farrell asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

(1) What was the total compensation payment to Airport Link Company Pty Ltd under the new agreement between RailCorp and Airport Link Company Pty Ltd concluded in October 2005?

(2) How much was the initial compensation payment under the new agreement?(3) When will the contingent liability of approximately $76 million (outstanding at 31 December 2005)

be paid in full?Answer—In October 2005 the Iemma Government put the last nail in the coffin of one of the Coalition's biggest blunders the Airport Rail Link - ending a disastrous Liberal legacy that has cost the state $800 million.I refer the Honourable Member to the Premier's media release of 13 October 2005.

*5562 RURAL LANDS PROTECTION BOARD—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

Will the Minister review the requirement for property owners in the Berowra Waters area to contribute to the Moss Vale Rural Lands Protection Board when they have no stock or agricultural land due to their properties consisting primarily of bushland?Answer—I am advised by the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries and Minister for Mineral Resources of the following response:Areas of bushland can still harbor undesirable species including pest animals declared under the Rural Lands Protection Act 1998.The Rural Lands Protection Act 1998 requires owners and occupiers to control pest animals and insects. These obligations are not diminished for areas that remain as bushland.The Rural Lands Protection Act 1998 also requires Rural Lands Protection Boards such as Moss Vale to



administer these provisions and they do so with income from rates levied under the Act.While I appreciate the reason for raising this matter, the specific land use does not alter the obligations imposed under the Rural Lands Protection Act 1998 and there is no basis for exempting landholders with bushland from paying Rural Lands Protection Board rates.

*5563 BROADWATER WETLAND SYSTEM—GLENORIE DISTRICT—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

In consideration of its outstanding environmental significance, will the Minister arrange an assessment of the Broadwater Wetland System (Glenorie District) with a view to a Ramsar nomination submission to the Australian Government?Answer—NSW supports the listing of important wetlands to the Ramsar Convention where they are of significance within the bioregion or at a national level.While it is important to maintain wetland values across the state, the Department of Environment and Conservation has advised me that the Broadwater Wetland system (Glenorie District) does not meet the threshold criteria for assessment under the Ramsar Convention.

*5565 SUBURBAN RAILWAY CARRIAGES—CONTRACT FINALISATION—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

When does the Minister currently expect to sign the contract for the proposed replacement of 498 non-airconditioned suburban railway carriages?Answer—I am advised:As most members of the travelling public would be aware, and I announced in 2005, RailCorp issued Requests for Detailed Proposals for both single deck and double deck trains as part of the Public Private Partnership for the replacement of 498 non-air-conditioned carriages with modern, safe, reliable, air-conditioned trains.On 1 March 2005 I announced the short-listed tenderers for the $1.5 million Public Private Partnership contract. Following consultation with the short-listed tenderers, RailCorp released the Request for Detailed Proposals on 20 May 2005. The parties then prepared their proposals for evaluation to determine which represents the best value for money for the people of NSW. The Government expects that RailCorp will be in a position to award contracts to the successful tenderers in 2006. Originally scheduled for introduction in 2017, these modern, state-of-the-art carriages will now start rolling out into service in 2008, with all the carriages in service by the end of 2010.Additionally, the NSW Government is spending $439.4 million on 122 new carriages for intercity services on the Illawarra⁄South Coast, Blue Mountains and Central Coast Lines. The first of the new carriages are currently on the rail network for on-track tests and are expected to come into service in 2006.Hunter commuters will also benefit from a $102 million investment in 14 new Hunter rail cars built locally by United Group - part of the record $2.5 billion investment in new rolling stock for NSW. These new cars are being tested on the rail network and are expected to be in full service by mid 2006.

*5566 SINGLE DECKER SUBURBAN RAILWAY CARRIAGES—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

Is there a proposal to provide single decker suburban railway carriages for the CityRail fleet?Answer—I am advised:As most members of the travelling public would be aware, and I announced in 2005, RailCorp issued Requests for Detailed Proposals for both single deck and double deck trains as part of the Public Private Partnership for the replacement of 498 non-air-conditioned carriages with modern, safe, reliable, air-conditioned trains.On 1 March 2005 I announced the short-listed tenderers for the $1.5 million Public Private Partnership contract. Following consultation with the short-listed tenderers, RailCorp released the Request for Detailed Proposals on 20 May 2005. The parties then prepared their proposals for evaluation to determine which represents the best value for money for the people of NSW. The Government expects that RailCorp



will be in a position to award contracts to the successful tenderers in 2006. Originally scheduled for introduction in 2017, these modern, state-of-the-art carriages will now start rolling out into service in 2008, with all the carriages in service by the end of 2010.Additionally, the NSW Government is spending $439.4 million on 122 new carriages for intercity services on the Illawarra⁄South Coast, Blue Mountains and Central Coast Lines. The first of the new carriages are currently on the rail network for on-track tests and are expected to come into service in 2006.Hunter commuters will also benefit from a $102 million investment in 14 new Hunter rail cars built locally by United Group - part of the record $2.5 billion investment in new rolling stock for NSW. These new cars are being tested on the rail network and are expected to be in full service by mid 2006.

*5567 DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION PROCESSING TIMES—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

What are the mean and median processing times for development applications determined by the Department of Planning for the following years:

(a) 2000-01?(b) 2001-02?(c) 2002-03?(d) 2003-04?(e) 2004-05?(f) 2005-06 to date?

Answer—I am advised that the Department of Planning typically deals with complex development and development in sensitive locations. These are inherently matters of State and Regional significance, such as coal mines and major industrial developments, or development in coastal or alpine areas. These matters require careful consideration and effective stakeholder and agency consultation. It would be misleading to compare the assessment of projects such as the Port Botany expansion or a major road project with that of a dwelling house, for example.I am further advised that Development Applications processed by the Department of Planning are typically exhibited for 30 to 60 days (generally 40), and require in most cases extensive consultation, generating hundreds of submissions. The issues in these matters need to be carefully considered and the applicant needs to resolve these issues, prior to approval being granted. Where they are not resolved, then technically-accurate conditions need to be drafted. The Department are often asking applicants for further information which also impacts on processing times, as does resolving issues raised by key stakeholders.Since 2000-2001, the time taken to assess and determine DAs by the Department has halved. Added to this, the Government has implemented the new Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act for Major Project assessment to further reduce approval times. This is being achieved by better integrating stakeholder involvement earlier in the process which eliminates delays that were often occurring through later consultation where relatively small issues had the effect of delaying a major development.I am advised by the Department that mean processing times for Development Applications have only been calculated and reported for preceding years. However, the Department has calculated the mean and median processing times for 2005⁄06 to date.The mean processing times stated for each period incorporate the activities of the Department of Planning and its predecessors.

(a) 291.5 days(b) 171 days(c) 176.5 days(d) 147 days(e) 131 days(f) 135 (mean) days

132 (median) days



*5568 COLO HEIGHTS—ELECTRICAL SPURLINE—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

When will the electrical spurline to Colo Heights be provided to guarantee an improved supply of electricity that will not be affected by fluctuations in the supply to homes?Answer—I am advised by Integral Energy that:Customers in Colo Heights are supplied from the Cattai Zone Substation via the Sackville Road feeder. This feeder contains approximately 108 kilometres of overhead 11kV mains from the zone substation across rugged terrain to remote customers in the Upper Colo and Colo Heights areas. Because of the nature of the terrain it traverses, severe storms, wind and vegetation can adversely impact the performance of this feeder.Integral Energy has undertaken investigations regarding the performance of this feeder. A primary cause of the interruption experienced is vegetation impacting on the reliability of this feeder. I am advised Integral Energy has commenced a program of works to improve the reliability of this feeder. Since July 2005, Integral Energy has expended over $300,000 to remove dead, dying and dangerous trees from around the feeder in additional to the normal vegetation clearances. These works have been undertaken in consultation with affected landholders.Since undertaking the works, I am advised there has been an approximately seventy five percent improvement in the performance of the feeder.Integral Energy continues to explore options to improve the reliability of supply to customers in the Colo Heights, Sackville and Lower Portland areas. While it will not be possible to totally mitigate the impact of a range of environmental factors impacting on supply reliability in this area, I am advised Integral Energy continues to work towards building a sustainable network to underpin electricity services to these customers.

*5569 DEMOUNTABLE CLASSROOMS—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) How many demountable classrooms were there in New South Wales for the following years:(a) 2005-06?(b) 2004-05?(c) 2003-04?

(2) During these years, how many were under repair and not usable and how many were in storage?Answer—Demountable buildings are part of the Department of Education and Training's asset management strategy. Demountable accommodation is used to:• meet emergency needs, for example as a result of natural disaster;• meet accommodation needs from increased enrolments;• meet needs arising from capital works or maintenance projects; and• provide accommodation enhancements where required.As part of the asset management strategy, demountables may be held in storage to ensure that accommodation needs can be met in urgent or unforseen circumstances.Demountable buildings are the subject of maintenance and refurbishment works to ensure that the educational needs of schools can be met.In March 2006, there were approximately 4,200 demountable classrooms in use, 250 demountable buildings in storage and 20 under repair.To accurately state how many demountable classrooms there were in total for the years between 2003 and 2006, and the number under repair and in storage, would involve considerable time and the diversion of resources away from the core responsibilities of the Department of Education and Training, which cannot be justified.

*5570 REWRITE OF NSW LIQUOR LAWS—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for the Central Coast—

What is the Minister's response to the proposal from:



Hawkesbury HarvestMacquarie Valley Food and Wine NetworkOrange Farmers MarketHume Murray Food BowlSouthern New England Vigneron's AssociationHunter Harvest

to rewrite section 3, division 6, clause 29 of the Liquor Act to allow small quantities of regional wines to be sold at farmers markets?Answer—The specific provision referred to in the Honourable Member's question is included in draft liquor laws which were released by the Government for consultation in November 2005.The proposed laws include new provisions which would allow wine producers to sell their wine at approved wine shows.The Government has received a range of submissions in response to the draft laws, including submissions from some of the organisations referred to by the Honourable Member. They will be carefully considered before the new liquor laws are finalised.

*5572 AMBULANCE CALL CENTRES—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

In relation to Ambulance Call Centres in New South Wales:(1) How many are there?(2) How many EFT staff are employed at each centre?(3) How are the shifts arranged and how many staff are employed on each shift?(4) Who are the employees uniformed ambulance officers, clerical staff, etc?Answer—The Minister for Health advises me:(1) I refer the Member to the Annual Report.(2) As at 27 March 2006, there are 249.04 FTE employees.(3) Arrangements vary, however, all Operations Centres are staffed 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.(4) The employees include both uniformed and non-uniformed staff.

*5573 FIRST HOME BUYER GRANTS—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter—

(1) How many First Home Buyers Grants have been made to people buying property in the electorate of North Shore for each year over the last five years?

(2) What is the total amount paid to first home buyers in the electorate of North Shore for each of those years?

Answer—I m advised:Information relating to First Home Buyers Grants is publicly available on the Office of State Revenue website at www.osr.nsw.gov.au.The production of specific figures for individual electorates would require considerable time and an unjustifiable diversion of resources away from the core responsibilities of the Office of State Revenue.Since April 2004 when the NSW Government extended the First Home Plus Scheme, more than 74,000 first home buyers have received stamp duty concessions totalling almost $800 million.

*5574 PRE-SCHOOL FUNDING—Mr George Souris asked the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—

(1) What was the statewide budget funding for pre-schools for the following years, as at 30 June: 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005?

(2) What was the 2006 Budget allocation?(3) What have been the average fees payable for attending children per day for the following years, as at

30 June: 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005?(4) What is the current average fee per child per day?(5) What is the number of children in pre-schools in New South Wales for each year 2002 2005, and in



2006?(6) Are these trends sustainable?Answer—(1) The Department of Community Services' Annual Reports of 2001-02, 2002-03, and 2004-05 outline the Children's Services Program budget for these past years.(2) The 2006 budget allocation is provided in Budget Paper 2005-06, BP 3 Vol. 1.(3) and (4) The Department of Community Services does not have access to a verified record of fees across all services offering preschool programs for those financial years. Unlike long day care, preschool fees do not attract Commonwealth Government subsidies such as the Child Care Benefit.(5) and (6) It is estimated that each year approximately 72,800 children in NSW access a preschool program in their year prior to school. NSW is unique among Australian jurisdictions by requiring a degree-trained early childhood teacher in all children's services with 30 or more children.

*5575 TRANSFER OF WATER FROM SHOALHAVEN—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra—

In relation to the Government's plans to pump water from the Shoalhaven River to supplement Sydney's water supplies:(1) Is the Sydney Catchment Authority examining potential for increases in transferring water from the

Shoalhaven? If not, why not?(2) Does the Government intend to provide new infrastructure to facilitate potential increases in

transferring water from the Shoalhaven?(3) What is the proposed capacity of any new infrastructure that will increase transfers from the

Shoalhaven?(4) What modifications will be made to the existing network?(5) What is the proposed cost of any modifications to the existing network, itemised?(6) What studies have been proposed or completed to examine the impact that transfers of water from

the Shoalhaven have had on the environment and community?(7) What studies have been proposed or completed to examine the impact of potential increased transfers

from the Shoalhaven on local communities and the environment?(8) Have any individuals or companies been contacted regarding the possibility that tenders may be

called for in relation to the construction of new infrastructure to facilitate increased transfers from the Shoalhaven?

Answer—(1) to (8) These questions fall within the Portfolio responsibilities of the Minister for the Environment.

*5576 TALLOWA DAM—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra—

In relation to the Tallowa Dam and Shoalhaven River:(1) What percentage of Sydney Water's needs currently come from Tallowa Dam?(2) How much water has been pumped to supplement Sydney Water's needs:

(a) For the last ten years in total?(b) Per year over the last ten years?

(3) What is the average daily cost of transferring water to supplement Sydney's supplies from the Shoalhaven?

(4) What is the cost per megalitre of transferring water from the Shoalhaven to supplement Sydney Water's needs?

Answer—(1) to (4) These questions fall within the Portfolio responsibilities of the Minister for the Environment.

*5577 ROGERS CORRESPONDENCE—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

In relation to your correspondence to Mr B Rogers dated 18 October 2005 (ref MOF 19464):(1) Are you aware that your statement concerning increases in camping fees at Arakoon is incorrect,

with three price increases implemented since 1995?



(2) On what do you base your contention that Horseshoe Bay Caravan Park camping fees are more expensive than Arakoon, given that the 7th night at Horseshoe Bay is free of charge, making the weekly rate there less expensive than Arakoon?

(3) Why should the fees set for campers at Arakoon reflect, as you contend, the costs of amenities including barbecues, amenity blocks and landscaping, when these facilities are primarily used by day visitors?

(4) Will you be providing a further response to Mr Rogers in light of these facts?Answer—Shortly after replying to Mr Rogers initial letter concerning camping fees at Arakoon State Conservation Area on 18 October 2005, my Department informed me that it had provided me with incorrect advice on the specific issue of camping fee increases. In addition to the fee increase brought about by the introduction of the GST, two minor fee increases had occurred during the ten years prior to 2004 with the introduction of a new computer booking system and a change in the camping fee formula.I therefore arranged for the National Parks Regional Manager to telephone Mr Rogers and apologise for any confusion caused.The contention that camping fees at the nearby Horseshoe Bay Caravan Park are more expensive than Arakoon was calculated from the nightly rate for two people when staying for less than one week: that is, $45 per night at Horseshoe Bay and $40 at Arakoon. My Department confirms that the figure for Horseshoe Bay falls to $38.60 per night for two people if they stay for seven nights, thereby receiving one night's free accommodation. A further important difference is that at Arakoon the $40 rate applies only to the premium and powered sites, while other sites are $30 per night for two people.The key conclusion, however, is that the fees at Arakoon are essentially comparable with other nearby accommodation of similar quality.Both camping fees and entry fees from day visitors to the Historic Trial Bay Gaol go towards the upkeep of facilities and towards conservation programs in the reserve. Day visitors also pay to use barbecues and the coin-operated showers. Nevertheless, the Department acknowledges that day visitors generally contribute less than campers to the upkeep of facilities at Arakoon State Conservation Area, and is re-examining ways to spread the costs of maintenance.I have since replied to further correspondence from Mr Rogers.

*5578 LAND ASSESSMENT STUDY—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Attorney-General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

In relation to the Land Assessment Study undertaken on Crown land at Gordon Young Drive:(1) When did the study commence?(2) When will the findings be released?(3) Have community uses including aged care and secondary education been identified in the findings?Answer—(1) March 2002 (2) The draft assessment, which had been previously publicly exhibited, was subsequently adopted

without change and can be viewed at the Taree Office of the Department of Lands. (3) One of the suitable uses identified in the adopted assessment, "urban development (residential,

community-based)", will accommodate aged care and educational developments.

*5579 PACIFIC HIGHWAY UPGRADE—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

In relation to the planned upgrade of the Pacific Highway between Macksville and Urunga:(1) What is the estimated cost of the project?(2) What is the expected commencement date for construction?(3) What is the expected completion date for the project?(4) Are you aware that costings in the Route Options Report regarding Options W6 and W7 west of

Macksville are wrong by approximately $10m, because the bridge crossings attributed to W6 are actually for W7, and there is no railway crossing at Nambucca Heads for W7?

(5) In view of these significant errors, will you review the route decision?Answer—



I am advised:The recommended preferred route for the Macksville to Urunga project involves a combination of options 1c, 2a, 3a and 4b.Details of road project funding will be available in the 06⁄07 budget papers.


*5580 PEER REFERENCE COSTS—Mr Peter Draper asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

With reference to advice from the Minister (answer to Question on Notice 5207) which quoted the benchmark Peer Reference Costs funding figures, what are the actual costs, budget received and activity targets for:

(a) John Hunter Hospital?(b) Maitland Rural Referral Hospital?(c) Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital?(d) Taree Rural Referral Hospital?

Answer—The Minister for Health advises me:Peer Reference Costs funding figures in this answer only apply to the acute inpatient component of the nominated hospital budget and costs. These figures do not include, for example, costs provided for Emergency Departments, Outpatients, Rehabilitation, Aged Care, Community Health or Mental Health.

2005⁄06 Initial Budget

$M Activity** Unit Cost$

(a) John Hunter Hospital 164.1 52,407 3,132(b) Maitland District

Hospital37.0 13,305 2,782

(c) Tamworth Base Hospital

43.2 16,278 2,652

(d) Manning Base Hospital (Taree)

35.9 12,486 2,878

Actual results are not available until after 30 June 2006.** Case weighted separations

*5581 TARENGO BRIDGE—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) Are you aware of local concerns regarding safety at the Tarengo Bridge on the Boorowa-Cunningar Road?

(2) When was this structure last inspected by Roads and Traffic Authority staff?(3) Will you provide funding to Boorowa Shire Council to allow this ageing bridge to be replaced?Answer—I am advised:Tarengo Bridge is the responsibility of Boorowa Shire Council and its maintenance is a matter for Council.The State Government provides funding assistance to councils by way of annual Block Grants for maintenance on Regional Roads and contributes funds to specific projects on Regional Roads under the REPAIR program.All roads initiatives will be considered within the context of the 2006-07 budget.



*5582 REGIONAL ROAD TIMBER BRIDGE PROGRAM—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) Will the Regional Road Timber Bridge Program commence in July 2006? (a) If not, why not? (b) If yes:

(i) When will actual funding commence? (ii) When will the upgrading of bridges commence? (iii) How much money will be committed to the program:

1. Each year?2. For how many years?

(2) On what grounds do you evaluate eligibility of timber bridges for the program? (3) In light of lapsed time since the initial announcement of the program in 2004, will you re-evaluate timber bridges across New South Wales to determine what further bridges are eligible for funding under the program? (4) How is funding for each bridge project determined in terms of:

(a) State Government contributions? (b) Local Government contributions?

(5) What percentage of funding for each bridge project will the State Government finance? Answer—I am advised:All roads initiatives will be considered within the context of the 2006-07 budget.

*5583 STATE FORESTS ELECTRONIC "EDD"—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

In relation to State Forests' new electronic data system, 'EDD':(1) Are you aware of concerns that the system is old, inflexible and prone to failure and was introduced

without proper consultation with the industry?(2) Are you aware of concerns of contractors that are being forced to use the system, and that it has cost

them significant extra time and resources, detracting from their primary businesses?(3) Will you address industry concerns?(4) What is your plan in this regard?Answer—(1) The 2002 commencement of the Electronic Delivery Docket (EDD) system by Forests NSW

followed extensive consultations and regional operational trials in conjunction with relevant Forests NSW customers and contractors. The introduction of EDD to date has required a transition by customers and contractors from the previous antiquated, paper-based, manual docketing system to a new electronic bar-coding system designed to take advantage of new technology and capture the efficiencies associated with improved data management and control by all supply chain sectors. I am advised that a small number of Forests NSW contractors currently involved with EDD have expressed concerns that newer and possibly better technology has become available since the introduction of EDD. Forests NSW is monitoring possible technological and system advancements that may be incorporated in future stages of EDD implementation.

(2) All of Forests NSW's customers and contractors where EDD applies operate under formal agreements that clearly contain provisions for the implementation of EDD. Most contracting agreements resulted from processes where companies competitively tendered for work which specified the inclusion of EDD. Forests NSW will continue to work with customers and contractors throughout the ongoing EDD implementation program, consistent with the provisions and review mechanisms contained in their current contracts.

(3) As in (2) above.(4) As in (2) above



*5584 NSW PRISON SYSTEM—Mr Richard Amery asked the Attorney-General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) How many prisoners escaped from the New South Wales prison system during 1995?(2) What percentage of the prison population does this figure represent?(3) How do these escape rate figures compare to the year 1994?Answer—(1) 166.(2) The 1995 escape rate was 2.5 escapes per 100 offenders per year.(3) In 1994 when the prison population totalled a little over 6000, there were 151 escapes, with an

escape rate of 2.2 escapes per 100 offenders per year. These figures should be compared with a decade later - in 2005 - when there were 31 escapes at a time when the prison population was around 9,000.

*5585 SYDNEY WATER—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) In regards to Sydney Water reporting to NSW Health:(a) On how many occasions did Sydney Water report to NSW Health any information or event in

the delivery of the services or in its systems or operations which may have risks for public health?

(b) If there were any occasions that Sydney Water reported any information or event to NSW Health, can you provide a summary of what was reported to NSW Health?

(2) In the last financial year, how many properties experienced a water pressure failure (according to Sydney Water's Water Pressure Standard)?

(3) In regards to water interruptions:(a) How many properties experienced a Planned Water Interruption exceeding five hours in the last

financial year?(b) How many properties experienced an Unplanned Water Interruption exceeding five hours in the

last financial year?(4) How many properties (other than public properties) experienced an Uncontrolled Sewage Overflow

in dry weather in the last financial year?(5) In regards to asset management obligations:

(a) How is Sydney Water ensuring it meets its asset management obligation?(b) Does Sydney Water have an asset register?(c) If so, can it be accessed publicly?(d) If not, why not?(e) If so, where?

(6) In regards to water leakage:(a) What is the current average amount of water leakage from the drinking water supply system of

Sydney Water?(b) How does Sydney Water anticipate that the amount of water leakage from its drinking water

supply system will not exceed 105 megalitres per day by 2009? (As stated in its licence).(7) In regards to bulk water meters:

(a) How many bulk water meters in Sydney Water's drinking water system did Sydney Water plan to install in the last financial year?

(b) How many bulk water meters in Sydney Water's drinking water system did Sydney Water actually install in the last financial year?

(8) In regards to bursts, breaks or leaks (in the trunk and reticulation component of Sydney Water's drinking water system between water treatment plants and a property):(a) What was the number of bursts, breaks or leaks (in the trunk and reticulation component of

Sydney Water's drinking water system between water treatment plants and a property) which occurred in financial years 1999-00, 2000-01, 2001-02 and 2003-04?

(b) What was the number of bursts, breaks or leaks (in the trunk and reticulation component of Sydney Water's drinking water system between water treatment plants and a property) which occurred in the last financial year?

(c) What was reported to IPART on September 1 2005 as the time taken by Sydney Water to repair those bursts, breaks or leaks?



(d) What was the number of kilometres of reticulation mains Sydney water inspected during the preceding financial year for Water leakage?

(9) In regards to priority 6 breaks⁄leaks (as stated in Sydney Water's licence), from time of notification to the time Sydney Water stops the loss of water:(a) How many jobs were completed within two hours?(b) How many jobs were completed within three hours?

(10) In regards to priority 5 breaks⁄leaks (as stated in Sydney Water's licence), from time of notification to the time Sydney Water stops the loss of water:

(a) How many jobs were completed within two hours?(b) How many jobs were completed within three hours?

(11) In regards to priority 4 breaks⁄leaks (as stated in Sydney Water's licence), from time of notification to the time Sydney Water stops the loss of water:(a) How many jobs were completed within two hours?(b) How many jobs were completed within three hours?

(12) How many customer councils did Sydney Water utilise in the last financial year?(13) Did Sydney Water produce a five year Environment Plan by 30 September 2005?

(a) If not, why not?(b) If so, what were the public consultation steps that were undertaken in developing the

Environment Plan?(14) In regards to reduction of potable water reuse at sewage treatment plants:

(a) Is Sydney Water on target to ensure that potable water use for treatment processes at the (i) Malabar (ii) North Head (iii) Bondi sewage treatment plants has been reduced by 80% in volumetric terms from its 2003⁄04 usage rates?

(b) What is the current rate of reduction in volumetric terms from 2003⁄04 usage rates?(15) In regards to water reduction:

(a) Is Sydney Water on target to reduce the quantity of water (other than reuse water) it draws from all sources to meet the water conservation target of 329 litres per day by 2010⁄11?

(b) If not, why not?(c) What is the current quantity of water (other than reuse water) that Sydney Water draws from all

sources?(16) In regard to the current water reuse targets for Sydney Water:

(a) What is the current water reuse target set by the Minister or Sydney Water?(b) What are the current water reuse rates by Sydney Water?

(17) What was the number of complaints relating to drinking water quality received by Sydney Water per thousand properties?

(18) How is Sydney Water meeting its Operating Licence obligations requiring it to reuse wastewater or undertake other activities to reduce discharge to waterways through non-potable reuse?

Answer—(1) (a) and (b) This information is provided in Sydney Water's Annual Report 2005 and in the appendix

document ESD Indicators and Environment Plan Report 2005. These documents are available online at www.sydneywater.com.au.

(2) This information is provided in Sydney Water's Annual Report 2005. (3) (a) and (b) This information is provided in Sydney Water's Annual Report 2005. (4) This information is provided in Sydney Water's Annual Report 2005. (5)

(a) This information is provided in Sydney Water's Operating Licence 2005 to 2010. This document is available online at ww.sydneywater.com.au.

(b) Yes (c) Sydney Water's asset register is not a public document for reasons of security.

(6)(a) This information is provided in Sydney Water's Annual Report 2005. (b) This information is provided in Sydney Water's Annual Report 2005.

(7) (a) and (b) There were no planned or actual flowmeter installations by Sydney Water in the last financial year.

(8) and (9) In the period July 2005 to February 2006:

(a) 108 jobs.



(b) 126 jobs. (10)

(a) Statistics are not collated for priority five breaks⁄leaks in this specific time bracket. Further information is provided in Sydney Water's Operating Licence 2005 to 2010.

(b) In the period July 2005 to February 2006, 2,366 jobs. (11) (a) and (b) Statistics are not collated for priority four breaks⁄leaks in these specific time brackets.

Further information is provided in Sydney Water's Operating Licence 2005 to 2010. (12) This information is provided online at www.sydneywater.com.au under Contact Us. (13) Yes.

(a) Not applicable. (b) This information is provided in the Public Consultation Report on Sydney Water's Environment

Plan 2005 to 2010, which is available online at www.sydneywater.com.au. (14)

(a) Sydney Water is on target to ensure that potable water use for treatment processes at the (i) Malabar (ii) North Head (iii) Bondi sewage treatment plants has been reduced by 80% in volumetric terms from its 2003⁄2004 usage rates by 30 June 2009.

(b) The current rate of reduction in volumetric terms from 2003⁄04 usage rates is shown in the following table:

Total Potable Water Usage03⁄04 (ML)

Potable Water Usage Per Qtr03⁄04 (ML)

Potable Water Usage for Qtr 205⁄06 (ML)

Current rate of reduction in volume%)

Malabar STP 523 131 53 59%

North Head STP 577 144 2 99%

Bondi STP 348 87 40 54%

(15) (a) to (c) Sydney's water consumption during 2005 was 523 billion litres - the lowest level of consumption since 1974, despite an increase in population of 1.15 million.In 1991⁄92, demand was at around 500 litres per person per day. In 2003⁄04 this had dropped to 369 litres, and in 2004⁄05 had reduced further to 343 litres per person per day.Through the Metropolitan Water Plan, Sydney Water is working on a range of measures to secure our water supply in both the short and long terms, including residential and business sector water saving programs and increasing recycling from the current 15 billion litres per year to 70 billion litres per year by 2015.Sydney Water's range of programs already underway include the Rainwater Tank Rebate Program, housing retrofit program known as WaterFix, and the newly commenced Washing Machine Rebate Program.As at March 2006, Sydney Water has paid almost 22,000 rainwater tank rebates, saving an estimated 840 million litres of water per year since the program began.Already more than 313,000 homes have been fitted with water saving devices, saving more than 6,500 million litres of water per year, and this will rise to 550,000 by 2008.With these programs and other measures in place, I am confident that Sydney Water will meet the 2010⁄2011 water conservation target.I have, however, asked Sydney Water to take further steps:

• Sydney Water is to investigate and implement all feasible options for industrial and domestic reuse and report back to the Government by September 1 on its progress;

• Implement new recycling water opportunities; • Undertake reuse trials as part of the Every Drop Counts Business Program; • Prepare a sewer mining policy; • Identify advancements in recycling technology; and • Assist development of recycling opportunities by third parties.Further information on

Sydney Water's conservation and recycling strategies is available in Sydney Water's Water Conservation and Recycling Implementation Report 2005.

(16)(a) This information is provided in the NSW Government's Metropolitan Water Plan February 2006

Progress Report.



(b) This information is provided in Sydney Water's Water Conservation and Recycling Implementation Report 2005.

(17) This information is provided in Sydney Water's Annual Drinking Water Quality Report 2005. (18) This information is provided in Sydney Water's Water Conservation and Recycling Implementation

Report 2005 under Section 2.5 and online at www.sydneywater.com.au under Recycling.

*5586 DEEMED WORKERS—Mr Andrew Fraser asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Vice President of the Executive Council—

With respect to the need for clear guidelines in relation to the deemed worker issue:(1) How many appeals regarding these issues are being handled by WorkCover currently?(2) How many of these appeals concern contractors?(3) How many of these issues concern deemed workers?(4) How many of these involve directors' fees?(5) Which insurance agents have the most appeals?(6) Which auditors appeals are being investigated?Answer—As at 11 April 2006, WorkCover had 68 wages appeals under consideration in relation to deemed workers, contractors and directors fees made by employers under section 170 of the Workers Compensation Act 1987. The number of appeals dealing with deemed worker and contractor issues was 45, with directors fees issues 20, and with both issues three.The policies involved in the appeals were held between five Scheme agents with GIO Workers Compensation (NSW) Ltd most highly represented.The audits being appealed were undertaken by 14 wage auditors with audits by Deloitte Touche Tohamatsu most highly represented.

*5587 CLINICAL SERVICES REPORT—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

When will the Clinical Services Report in relation to Sutherland Hospital be made public?Answer—The Minister for Health advises me:I refer the Honourable Member to my response to Question No. 5521.

*5588 CRONULLA RIOTS REPORT—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Police—

Will the report on the Cronulla riot be made public before the next State Election?Answer—An internal review is being conducted by NSW Police. The report of the review must be provided to Cabinet by the end of August 2006. Cabinet will make the final decision as to its release.

*5589 POLICE PROMOTIONS SYSTEM—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Police—

What changes are being proposed in relation to the police promotions system?Answer—I am advised the proposed features of the new promotions system include :• the introduction of a three staged system where an applicant must complete each stage before being

eligible for promotion;• the retention of the Pre-qualifying Assessment component but in a revised form;• the introduction of a rank based examination;• the introduction of a rank based training program;• the introduction of a new Managment Performance Review system that replaces the existing

Management Team Comments and ensures an equitable and transparent assessment of an applicant's on the job performance;

• the introduction of a new lateral transfer program to enable officers already appointed to a rank to apply for transfer to a vacant position where they have served tenure at their existing locations;

• the creation of a separate professional development system for officers that remain outside the promotion system;



• the removal of appeals to GREAT and the imposition of an internal review system where an applicant can apply for a review to an independent panel at each stage of the promotions process.

*5590 TRANSPORT INFOLINE—Mr Barry O'Farrell asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

In relation to the performance of the Transport Infoline since 1 July 2005:(1) How many calls have been received?(2) What is the average number of calls received for each day of the week?(3) What percentage of that are answered within 40 seconds?(4) What is the average waiting time before calls are answered?(5) How many staff are currently employed to receive calls to the Infoline?Answer—I refer the Honourable Member to my press release of 27 April 2006.

*5591 THERAPY SERVICES—ALBURY—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Why were two therapy positions removed from the community access team in Albury?(2) What steps have been taken to determine client needs for therapy services?(3) What is required to re-instate the two positions?Answer—(1) These positions were vacant for some time and subsequently were not included in the budget

allocation of the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care's Western Region for this financial year.

(2) Needs assessments are conducted for all new clients to determine any therapy needs. Where therapy needs are identified, referrals are made to the appropriate therapist and service requests entered onto the Department's Client Information System.The Western Region monitors demand for therapy and other services and uses this information to assist its decision making in relation to location and types of positions recruited whenever a vacancy occurs in community access teams.

(3) Should the region consider an increase in its community access team staffing levels is required, a business case would be prepared to identify the need and additional funding required. This would be reviewed and prioritised against similar requests across New South Wales.

*5592 RESPITE CARE—ALBURY—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Are respite care services for children meeting the needs of families and carers in the Albury electorate?

(2) Are you aware that there are no adult respite beds available in Albury?(3) How many clients are on the waiting list for children's and adult respite services?(4) Given that a parent group believes that 60% of people with a disability have unmet needs what steps

are being taken to:(a) identify these clients; and(b) assist them with respite and other services?

Answer—(1) Respite for children in Albury is available in the form of planned respite and takes into consideration

the special needs of families wherever possible by utilising a special request system for respite needs. There is a core group of children with very high needs that receive respite on a monthly basis (one weekend per month). In line with prioritising criteria, other children receive respite at least one weekend in every three months. The Carer's Respite Service is responsible for emergency respite needs.The Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care is one of a number of organisations that provide respite for children in Albury. Non-government services funded by the Department, such as the Mercy Centre and Family Link, also provide these services in Albury.

(2) Although the Department does not offer centre-based respite for adults in Albury, there are adult respite services available in Deniliquin, Cootamundra and Griffith.



(3) As children's respite is reviewed and allocated on a quarterly basis there is no waiting list. Requests for adult respite in Albury are received by the Department's Western Region and actioned on a case-by-case basis without the need for a waiting list.

(4) (a) A planning consultation with the community was held in Albury in March 2006, to enable the Department to develop regional service strategies for a number of service issues, including respite.(b) Families have allocated caseworkers who liaise with other services to identify and access appropriate services.

*5593 CROSS BORDER HEALTH AGREEMENT—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

What approaches have been made to the Victorian Government to contract agencies in both New South Wales and Victoria to expand capacity to serve the Albury Wodonga community as a whole?Answer—The Minster for Health advises me:Discussions between the NSW and Victorian Health Ministers regarding the Albury⁄Wodonga integration project are ongoing and an announcement is expected shortly. An integrated Albury⁄Wodonga Health Service will enhance the delivery of health services in the Albury⁄Wodonga area. The expected improvements will be in the areas of access and availability of services, service quality, organisational effectiveness and efficiency in resource utilisation.

*5594 CANCELLATION OF MEETING—Mr Andrew Constance asked the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—

(1) Why have departmental staff from Bankstown cancelled an already arranged meeting between the Member for Bega and William Smith with the Department?

(2) Has there been an investigation into a matter involving one of William Smith's family and time spent in a South West hospital? If not, why not?

Answer—(1) and (2) The Question and Answer paper is an inappropriate forum to discuss the particulars of the

case of a child under the parental responsibility of the Minister.Information regarding specific cases is more appropriately sought through written correspondence from the Member to the Minister.

*5595 TOURISM INFORMATION CENTRES—Mr Andrew Constance asked the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

(1) Will you fund the tourism information centres in Merimbula and Bega?(2) When will you respond to community calls for your intervention?Answer—Tourism New South Wales support of Tourist Information Centres is through a State-wide accreditation and marketing program. Funding for individual Centres is the responsibility of Local Councils.Tourism New South Wales supports the State's network of Visitor Information Centres through an accreditation program and a range of initiatives to raise consumer awareness of the blue and yellow i sign. A town's Visitor Information Centre is supported through financial and other resources provided at the local level. Due to this State-wide policy Tourism New South Wales is not able to provide additional funding to support the Bega and Merimbula Visitor Information Centres.However, Tourism New South Wales maintains a strong commitment to the South Coast RTO and other programs to develop and market tourism to Bega and surrounding areas.In 2002, the Eden Gateway Centre was opened with a $375,000 investment by the NSW Government. The NSW Government has provided $2 million over four years for the construction of the six regional Gateway Centres.The Centre promotes the local area and its surrounds and acts as a gateway to the State. As a regional facility, it provides an introduction to the South Coast and neighboring tourism regions, highlighting the many attractions and encouraging visitors to stay longer and experience more. It offers 24 hour access to state of the art touch screen tourism information.



I have echoed the local community's disappointment in the decision to target tourism for budget cuts. I commend the community's quick response to maintain a high level of tourism services for Merimbula and Bega.

*5596 CREMORNE AND CHATSWOOD CENTRES—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

In relation to community based mental health centres:(a) What is the future of the Cremorne Centre?(b) When will community based services be returned to Hercules Street, Chatswood?

Answer—I am advised:

(a) The Cremorne Community Mental Health Centre continues to provide mental health services to the Cremorne community. In the future, additional to mental health services, there may be opportunities to provide a more integrated set of community services in Cremorne.

(b) A Service Procurement Plan is to be developed for community health services, including mental health services, to be provided at Chatswood as part of an Integrated Primary Care Centre. Community Mental Health Services will provide a range of services from Chatswood when the new facility is commissioned.

*5597 CHATSWOOD SCHOOLS MEETING—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Minister for Education and Training—

Will you agree to meet with the school communities of Chatswood Primary and Chatswood High School to discuss much needed capital works funding at those schools?Answer—The Department of Education and Training has implemented a regional structure which provides for enhanced input from local communities. The Department has noted the need for further capital works at both Chatswood Public School and Chatswood High School and is considering these projects for inclusion in a future Capital Works Program in the context of competing statewide priorities.I am always happy to meet with school communities about issues affecting education.

*5598 COMMUNITY SERVICES CENTRES—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—

(1) Following the closure of the Manly and St Leonards Community Services Centres, and their consolidation to Chatswood, what are your plans for the rest of the Community Services Centres?

(2) Will you ensure there will be no further closures of Community Services Centres?Answer—(1) and (2) Staff from Manly and St Leonards Community Services Centres (CSCs) were relocated to

new, purpose built premises at Chatswood to accommodate a 43 per cent increase in caseworkers.As part of its $1.2 billion reform of the Department of Community Services, the Government plans to continue to recruit additional caseworkers (875 over five full years) and expand and improve their accommodation at CSCs.Where existing CSCs cannot be expanded to accommodate additional caseworkers, they may be relocated to new facilities in a neighbouring area.

*5599 FIREWORKS REPORT—Mr John Turner asked the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Was Workcover contacted by Mr Ron Giffin of Hallidays Point in connection with the illegal use of fireworks on a property near or about Jacaranda Close, Hallidays Point on 31 December 2005?

(2) If so, what action did WorkCover take?(3) If no action was taken, why was no action taken?Answer—WorkCover cannot locate any record of a complaint from Mr Giffin or in relation to fireworks at Hallidays Point in December 2005.



WorkCover was not notified of any legitimate fireworks display in the immediate vicinity of Hallidays Point on 31 December 2005.Members of the public are encouraged to contact NSW Police in the first instance with complaints concerning illegal fireworks and to provide sufficient details of the time, date and location of the incident so the matter may be followed up by the appropriate agency.

*5600 MENTAL HEALTH FACILITIES—Mr John Turner asked the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) Are there any dedicated wards at Manning Base Hospital for the treatment of children under the age of 18 with mental health illnesses?

(2) If so, what are those facilities?(3) If not, what facilities are available to treat acute mental health illnesses in children under the age of

18 in the Manning-Great Lakes and Gloucester area?(4) What trained personnel operate in the Manning-Great Lakes and Gloucester area that can be on call

for assistance in the treatment of acute mental health illnesses in children under the age of 18 in the Manning-Great Lakes and Gloucester area?

(5) What is the specific title for each person?(6) What are their specific duties?(7) What are the hours that they operate?(8) If there are no facilities for children under the age of 18 to be hospitalised for mental health illnesses

in the Manning-Great Lakes and Gloucester area, where is the nearest place that such children can be hospitalised and treated?

(9) What do those facilities consist of?(10) What treatment is available at those facilities?Answer—(1) to (10)The Hunter New England Area Health Service has strategies in place to meet the mental health care needs of children and adolescents from the Manning-Greater Lakes areas.I am advised by the Hunter New England Area Health Service that children and adolescents are assessed locally and if hospitalisation is required, they can be safely managed in a paediatric ward, where resources are available for specialist Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) consultation-liaison support. However, if hospital admission to a more specialised unit is deemed necessary, the Nexus Unit at John Hunter Hospital is the first option for transfer of clients.The Nexus Unit is a 12-bed mental health intensive care unit for children and adolescents up to 18 who need a high level of care. Generally patients are admitted because of difficulties in their management, rather than a particular diagnosis. This is often the result of risk of self-injury, self-neglect, injury to others, suicide and⁄or persistent erfusal to attend school. The Nexus Unit may also assist in diagnostic clarification of patients which, in the long term, assists with their future treatment in the community.Staffing in the Nexus Unit consists of 24-hour nursing care, a team of three psychologists, a social worker and dietician as well as medical cover (on-call after hours). There is also access to physiotherapy, speech and other specialist services through John Hunter Children's Hospital.The first priority of Nexus is to keep patients safe. Many of the young people who arrive at Nexus are quite desperate and need a safe place to be. The staff team provides support to individuals when they are at their most vulnerable, monitors the environment within Nexus and assist the patients in utilising more opsitive coping strategies.I am also advised that the following processes are in place within the Manning, Great Lakes and Gloucester area to care for children and adolescents presenting with mental illness:• Arrangements are in place at Manning Base Hospital for consultation with the on-call Psychiatrist to

provide high-level supervision for a young person either in the adult mental health unit or the paediatric ward, depending on their presentation, diagnosis and age.

• On-call assistance is also available through the Mental Health Access Line, which provides telephone triage and referral on to the appropriate service. This may include the Community Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS); the Extended Hours Community Team based at Taree; or the Emergency Department of Manning Base Hospital.

• Access to the CAMHS Nurse based at Manning⁄Taree Hospital, for assessment at the Emergency Department is available during business hours. After hours the Emergency Department may call upon the on-call Transit Nurse Specialist who is a Mental Health Trained Nurse to assist in the management



of the child or adolescent within the Emergency Department and provide escort if it is deemed necessary to transport the child or adolescent to the Nexus Unit, or James Fletcher Hospital, pending bed availability in the Nexus Unit at Newcastle. This is performed in consultation with the On-Call Psychiatrist, the Child and Adolescent Consultant Psychiatrist and the Nurse Manager of the Psychiatric Emergency Centre based at the James Fletcher Hospital.

It is important to note that when access to specialist child and adolescent mental health facilities is not possible or appropriate, young people with mental illnesses may be admitted to paediatric⁄adolescent⁄general medical wards or to adult mental health units. In these instances, access to CAMHS consultation-liaison support is available.

*5601 MANNING BASE HOSPITAL—Mr John Turner asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) Are there any dedicated wards at Manning Base Hospital for the treatment of children under the age of 18 with mental health illnesses?

(2) If so, what are those facilities?(3) If not, what facilities are available to treat acute mental health illnesses in children under the age of

18 in the Manning-Great Lakes and Gloucester area?(4) What trained personnel operate in the Manning-Great Lakes and Gloucester area that can be on call

for assistance in the treatment of acute mental health illnesses in children under the age of 18 in the Manning-Great Lakes and Gloucester area?

(5) What is the specific title for each person?(6) What are their specific duties?(7) What are the hours that they operate?(8) If there are no facilities for children under the age of 18 to be hospitalised for mental health illnesses

in the Manning-Great Lakes and Gloucester area, where is the nearest place that such children can be hospitalised and treated?

(9) What do those facilities consist of?(10) What treatment is available at those facilities?Answer—The Minister for Health advises me:I refer the Honourable Member to the response to Question No. 5600 provided by the Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health).

*5602 SEWERAGE TREATMENT PLANTS—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra—

Are there any plans for recycling water at the two Sewerage Treatment Plants in the Hornsby electorate?Answer—I am advised by Sydney Water that:The West Hornsby and Hornsby Heights Sewerage Treatment Plants already use recycled water. In 2004-05 over one million litres of recycled water was used to clean equipment and for landscaping. This is approximately six per cent of the average sewage flows to these plants.Together with recycling projects already underway, the measures underway and under investigation as part of the NSW Government's Metropolitan Water Plan will increase Sydney's total recycled water volume to more than 70 billion litres a year by 2015.

*5603 EMPLOYMENT DOCUMENTATION—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

Why does it take 27 pages of documentation to employ a nurse at Hornsby Hospital?Answer—The Minster for Health advises me:All health facilities are responsible for ensuring high quality governance in areas such as recruitment and employment. As a result there are a number of legislative, award, and probity and safety requirements within the recruitment process that each require documentation.Included in the documentation for new nursing staff are forms used to check and verify identity; proof of nursing qualifications and registration; health assessment information providing proof of immunisation status to ensure new staff are immune to contagious diseases; documentation to allow the Area Health



Service to conduct criminal record checks; and a Working with Children Check where a nurse is to be employed in areas caring for children. Although this documentation may take some time for individual staff to complete it is necessary to ensure that appropriate standards of quality, safety and probity are maintained.In addition, there are a number of common administrative forms nurses need to complete including documentation required by the Australian Taxation Office, banking information for the payment of wages, and security forms for hospital access passes.

*5604 CRONULLA RIOTS—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Police—

On each of the days and each shift occurring during the period of riotous behaviour at Cronulla in December 2005 and subsequent revenge attack dates, how many police were allocated from Ku-ring-gai Local Area Command to this area?Answer—NSW Police has advised me :Due to the nature of intelligence based deployment, the figures requested are not readily available from police information systems and their extraction would represent an unreasonable diversion of resources from frontline policing.

*5605 BOOROWA CENTRAL SCHOOL AIR-CONDITIONING—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) With reference to the Minister for Education and Training's letter RML 04⁄2437 dated 13 May 2004, did the Department of Education and Training's Property Services Unit contact Boorowa Central School during Term 2, 2004 to determine the priorities for future air-cooling treatment in hotspot permanent buildings at the School?

(2) What priority was allocated to installing this air-conditioning?(3) When will this air-conditioning be installed?Answer—(1) Yes.(2) and (3) A project to provide air cooling to Blocks J, H and the library at the school will be

considered in the context of future statewide capital works priorities.

*5606 DONATIONS TO GOULBURN BASE HOSPITAL—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) Has the $7,400 donated to the Goulburn Base Hospital on 31 March 2005 by the NSW Fire Brigade, based in Goulburn, been spent for the purpose that it was donated, to renovate the Children's Ward Playground?

(2) If so, when were these renovations completed?(3) If these renovations have not been completed, why has this money not been spent for the purpose for

which it was donated?Answer—The Minster for Health advises me:I am advised:(1) to (3) inclusive:The upgrade of the Children's Ward playground at Goulburn Base Hospital is being undertaken by Convoy for Kids who, along with the NSW Fire Brigade, have donated funds for this project. Convoy for Kids is currently undertaking a Sponsor a Paver program towards this upgrade. The upgrade is planned to commence in August⁄September 2006 with completion expected by the end of September 2006.


5607 GUN RELATED CRIMES—Mr Richard Amery to ask the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—



5608 INDEPENDENT LIVING UNIT—ALBURY—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5609 INDEPENDENT LIVING UNIT—ALBURY—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5610 INTEGRATION OF HEALTH SERVICES IN ALBURY-WODONGA—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5611 NEW HOSPITAL—Mr Andrew Constance to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5612 NARDY HOUSE—Mr Andrew Constance to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Vice President of the Executive Council—

5613 PLAN OF MANAGEMENT—ULLADULLA HARBOUR—Mrs Shelley Hancock to ask the Premier, Minister for State Development, and Minister for Citizenship—

*5614 HARBOUR DEVELOPMENT PLAN—ULLADULLA—Mrs Shelley Hancock asked the Attorney-General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) When will you be releasing the 25-year Harbour Development Plan for Ulladulla, commissioned in February 2005?

(2) Will you be allocating more resources or increasing the priority for effective management of Crown leases on the wharf area?

(3) How are you rationalising 5-10 years of no maintenance, against a mega-million dollar development strategy?

(4) What elevated priority can you give to maintain and upgrade existing infrastructure given the 25-year timeframe selected for the plan?

Answer—(1) I expect to place this draft concept plan on public exhibition within the next few months.(2) No.(3) All the ports under the control of the Department of Lands are generally inspected every six months

to monitor the condition of all maritime infrastructure built by the State Government and to ensure that there is no risk to port workers or visiting members of the public.

(4) This financial year some $600,000 has been allocated for major maintenance works at Ulladulla, including upgrading of the fendering on the Tuna Wharf and repairs to the stone seawall. Future works have been prioritised on a state wide basis according to public safety, structural integrity, environmental standards, port operations and general minor maintenance.

*5615 NORTH NOWRA LINK ROAD—Mrs Shelley Hancock asked the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) Have you agreed to a proposal by Shoalhaven mayor Greg Watson to revoke 1.6 hectares of the Bomaderry Creek Regional Park in order that the North Nowra Link Road proceed?

(2) What is your response to the ACF and the Friends of Bomaderry Creek who oppose the mayor's proposal?

(3) What funding assistance will be offered by the State Government for the construction of the North Nowra Link Road?

Answer—The NSW Government has received a proposal from the Mayor of Shoalhaven City Council to allow the construction of a link road in North Nowra that would require the revocation of a section of Bomaderry Creek Regional Park, which is managed by the Department of Environment and Conservation. The proposal is being considered in accordance with established policy.By way of background, the NSW Government follows a strict policy when considering revocation proposals. In general, revocation of reserved lands is only undertaken where no other practical options are available. Shoalhaven City Council as the proponent will need to demonstrate that the public value of the proposal outweighs the conservation loss. The revocations policy also requires that an appropriate



form of compensation be provided to offset any conservation loss, something which the Council has already addressed.The impact on the regional park is only one of the environmental criteria that need to be considered. It will be necessary for a full environment assessment to be undertaken as part of the normal approvals process under the Environment Planning and Assessment Act 1979.Issues concerning funding of roads should be addressed to my colleague, the Minister for Roads.

5616 OOLONG LEVEL CROSSING—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5617 GOULBURN BASE HOSPITAL FIRE MAIN—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5619 TRAIN PATRONAGE—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5620 GALSTON HIGH SCHOOL—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra—

5621 HORNSBY HOSPITAL BEDS—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

*5622 POLICE OFFICERS RESIGNATION—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Police—

How many police officers resigned from the police force during the period 1 March 2005 to 1 March 2006?Answer—NSW Police has advised me there were 260 resignations in total during the period 1 March 2005 to 1 March 2006.

5623 SYDNEY FERRIES TICKET SALES—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5624 TAXI SECURITY—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5625 INTERNET MOBILE PHONE COSTS—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

*5626 TAFE TEACHERS SICK LEAVE—Mr Donald Page asked the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) How many sick leave days did TAFE teachers take last year?(2) How much is sick leave among TAFE teachers estimated to have cost the NSW taxpayer in:

(a) 2002⁄03(b) 2003⁄04(c) 2004⁄05?

(3) Which TAFE campuses experienced the highest sick leave rates in:(a) 2002⁄03(b) 2003⁄04(c) 2004⁄05?

Answer—(1) to (3) 34,085 sick leave days were taken by TAFE teachers in 2005. This represents an average of 7

days per teacher. Comparative and historical data relating to sick leave rates between TAFE campuses is not currently available and requires significant interrogation.An annual entitlement to 15 paid sick leave days for full-time staff and pro-rata for part-time staff is considered to be part of the overall remuneration package of TAFE teachers, and is costed accordingly.

5627 LOT 107—Mr Donald Page to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5628 VEHICLE INSPECTION—MARULAN TRUCK WEIGHBRIDGE—Ms Peta Seaton to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—



5629 NSW HEALTH FUTURES FORUM—Ms Peta Seaton to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5630 IRRIGATORS WATER ALLOCATION—Mr George Souris to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

5631 IRRIGATORS ENERGY CHARGES—Mr George Souris to ask the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

5632 PAYROLL TAX INCENTIVE—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter—

5633 WATER SAVINGS FUND—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra—

5634 CROSS CITY TUNNEL—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5635 SNOWY HYDRO PTY LTD LAND OWNERSHIP—Mr Richard Torbay to ask the Premier, Minister for State Development, and Minister for Citizenship—

5636 FAILFORD ROAD AND PACIFIC HIGHWAY UPGRADE—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5637 CORRESPONDENCE—M.S. ARNOLD—Mr John Turner to ask the Premier, Minister for State Development, and Minister for Citizenship—

5638 CORRESPONDENCE—M.S. ARNOLD—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

5639 BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF PATERSON'S CURSE—Mr Russell Turner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—


5640 PROPOSED COMMERCIAL BORE—KURRAJONG HEIGHTS—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

5641 AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS—FARM MACHINERY AND WORKCOVER—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Vice President of the Executive Council—

*5642 FLOODPLAIN RISK MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Minister for Local Government—

When will the Minister respond to Hawkesbury City Council correspondence concerning its Floodplain Risk Management Committee and dispersion under the Local Government Act to enable the majority of councillors to deal with floodplain risk issues?Answer—I provide the following details in response to your questions:



I have given conditional approval to the Councillors of the Hawkesbury City Council Floodplain Risk Management Committee to vote on and take part in the consideration and discussion of matters concerning floodplain risk management.My approval overcomes the councillors inability to vote on and consider floodplain risk management issues because of their pecuniary interest obligations under the Local Government Act 1993.I communicated my approval to the General Manager and relevant councillors on 20 March 2006.

5643 TRAFFIC LIGHTS— OLD NORTHERN AND HASTING ROADS—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

*5644 STRESS LEAVE—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Training—

How many Principals are currently on stress leave?(a) primary?(b) secondary?

Answer—Stress leave is not a recognised leave type.

*5645 SCHOOL PRINCIPAL SUCCESSION TRAINING—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Training—

In view of the expected massive number of retirements of school Principals over the next seven years, what succession training expansion is proposed for Deputy Principals and Head Teachers?Answer—The Department of Education and Training has a strong succession planning program in place to ensure that our schools will have strong leadership both now and in the future.The Department's professional learning plan, the Professional Learning Continuum, provides a roadmap for the professional learning of aspiring, newly appointed and current school leaders. It has a range of professional learning programs to support teachers, aspiring leaders and leaders throughout their career.Renowned international educator, Professor Michael Fullan, recently described the Continuum as world class and amongst the best he has seen internationally .The Continuum identifies programs for Deputy Principals and Head Teachers including Executive Induction, Deputy Principal Induction, Executive Leadership Development, Principal Preparation Program and Team Leadership Programs.These programs combine online learning, conferences, action research projects and mentoring strategies. Over 1,150 executive and aspiring leaders completed these courses in 2005. The numbers expected to complete these programs in 2006 is even higher.The Government's strong commitment to the professional learning of both our current and aspiring school leaders is clearly demonstrated in these programs.

5646 PUTTY ROAD COLO HEIGHTS—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

*5647 MULTI-DISABLED STUDENTS—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) Why are children that attend schools for specific purposes audited on a annual basis (at great cost) when such students are placed in these schools by the Department of Education and their circumstances are unlikely to improve to the point where they can be integrated into main stream schools?

(2) Why is a paediatrician's report not accepted?Answer—(1) and (2) The Department of Education and Training conducts an annual review of students who attend

schools for specific purposes in order to determine whether the design and delivery of specific programs continue to meet their educational needs. This process also assists in regional and statewide planning and monitoring of specialist services.



Whilst paediatrician reports may assist in the annual review of educational needs and progress, the design of educational programs is not contingent upon a medical diagnosis or paediatric reports. Educational programs are key tasks of teachers and schools.

*5648 MULTI-DISABLED STUDENTS—TRAINING AUDITING—Mr Steven Pringle asked the Minister for Education and Training—

What is the average cost of auditing Multi-Disabled students in order for them to remain in schools for specific purposes?Answer—A formal review meeting is held at least once per year for all students enrolled in a special school to assist schools in the design, delivery and evaluation of programs. This process, involving parents and teachers, reviews the effectiveness of the educational program and the services which support its implementation and informs future planning.This process is part of the annual work of schools and as such is built into the staffing and other resources available to the school.

5649 ROADS AND TRAFFIC AUTHORITY ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5650 SAFETY BROCHURE—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5651 URUNGA FORESHORE CROWN LAND—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Attorney-General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

5652 SUSTAINABLE AQUACULTURE STRATEGY—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

5653 FAIR TRADING COMPLAINTS—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

*5654 316 BUS STOP—Mr John Turner asked the Minister for Local Government—

(1) Were safety concerns associated with the 316 bus stop in Donovan Avenue (Paine Street end) raised at the Randwick City Council traffic committee on or about 24 January 2004?

(2) If so, what were those concerns?(3) If so, what was the result of any consideration that the traffic committee may have given those

concerns?(4) Was the location of the bus stop mentioned in clause 1 hereof reviewed by the traffic committee on at

least three occasions?(5) If so, did the committee recommend that the bus stop be relocated for identified safety concerns?(6) If so, has the bus stop been relocated?(7) If not, why not?(8) If the recommendations were not to relocate the bus stop, on what basis were the recommendations

arrived at?(9) Did the Director of Asset and Infrastructure Services of Randwick City Council, in a report 69⁄2004

dated 16 September 2004, outline and address issues of safety concerning the bus stop mentioned in clause 1 hereof?

(10) Was it recommended that the bus stop be relocated due to identified safety concerns?(11) If so, was the recommendation upheld?(12) If not, why not?(13) Did Randwick City Council, at a council meeting on or about 12 October 2004, vote against any

recommendation regarding the relocation of the bus stop?(14) If so, why?Answer—I provide the following details in response to your questions:



(1) Council advises that the matter was first raised at council's traffic committee meeting on 9 March 2004. The agenda and minutes indicate that specific safety concerns were not raised.

(2) Council advises that the concerns raised related to footpath space, guttering and bus manoeuvring abilities, and were not specifically related to safety.

(3) Council advises that the traffic committee resolved to defer the issue pending further analysis and advice from Sydney Buses.

(4) Council advises that the traffic committee considered the location of the bus stop on 4 occasions: 9 March 2004; 10 August 2004; 14 September 2004; and 14 June 2005.

(5) Council advises that safety concerns were not a dominant determinant when considering the relocation of the bus stop.

(6) Council advises that the bus stop has not been relocated. (7) Council advises that a contributing factor to the decision not to move the bus stop was the

submission of a petition signed by 89 residents and visitors who were opposed to the relocation of the bus stop.

(8) Council advises that the traffic committee initially decided to endorse the relocation of the bus stop. However, upon receipt of the aforementioned petition and a risk assessment report furnished by a nearby resident, the committee resolved:That council be advised that the Randwick Traffic Committee raises no objection, on technical grounds, to the retention of the bus stop at its present location, or to relocating it either east or west of its present location.

(9) Council advises that the Director of Asset and Infrastructure Services report to council outlined numerous matters such as "the adequacy of footpath space", the presence of guttering and risks to waiting passengers .

(10) Council advises that the Director's recommendation was that the bus stop be relocated, but safety concerns were not specifically mentioned in the recommendation.

(11) Council advises that the Director's recommendation was initially endorsed. However, a rescission motion was lodged and council later resolved not to relocate the bus stop.

(12) Council advises that there is no record within the council meeting minutes as to why the decision was made not to relocate the bus stop. Council further advises that when considering the matter, council assessed all submissions including council reports, traffic committee recommendations and public submissions.

(13) Yes. See answer to Q11. (14) See answer to Q12.

5655 POLLUTION—BOTANY BAY—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

5656 TRAIN PATRONAGE NUMBERS—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

*5657 REGULATION OF TRAVEL AGENTS—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

(1) Have you or your Department been approached by any travel agents or their industry organisations seeking State Government regulation of travel agents?

(2) If so, which organisations have sought this regulation?(3) What action has the NSW Government taken in response to these requests?Answer—(1) I am aware of the issues of concern to travel agencies and their industry organisations. Tourism New

South Wales monitors these issues and liaises with other agencies on a regular basis on these issues.(2) N⁄A.(3) I am advised by the Department of Fair Trading that they are monitoring the level of interest in State

Government regulation of travel agencies. The regulation of travel agencies is a matter for the Minister for Fair Trading.

5658 UNANSWERED CORRESPONDENCE—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

5659 ASSAULTS AT GSAHS HOSPITALS AT GOULBURN—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—



5660 SUPPORTED ACCOMMODATION—ALBURY—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Vice President of the Executive Council—

5661 LAVINGTON PROPERTIES—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5662 DELAYS IN MEDICAL REGISTRATION—NEW PHYSICIAN—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5663 GRAFFITI INCIDENTS—Mr Richard Amery to ask the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

5664 RAILCORP TRAIN DRIVERS—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5665 RAILCORP TRAIN DRIVERS—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5666 SPADS—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

*5667 HAZARD REDUCTION—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Attorney-General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

How many hectares of national parks and other reserves are planned to be hazard reduced in 2006?Answer—Each year the Rural Fire Service collates a report on hazard reduction works undertaken by land managers (local and public authorities) during the preceding financial year. This information is published in the RFS Annual Report.As you would be aware the NSW Rural Fire Service is not a land manager and as such your question on planned hazard reductions on National Parks should be directed to the Minister for the Environment.As you would also appreciate, most land managers would have under their care land identified as reserve and unfortunately without specific details I am unable to assist you any further on this occasion.

*5668 S94 FUNDS—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Local Government—

(1) What section 94 funds does Hornsby Shire Council hold and in what accounts?(2) How much money is present in each of these accounts?Answer—I provide the following details in response to your questions:(1) As at 30 June 2005, the Financial Statements of Hornsby Shire Council showed that the Council held

$21.731M in section 94 Contributions. Council holds section 94 funds for Drainage, Roads, Traffic Facilities, Parking, Open Space, Community facilities, Civic Improvements and Other.

(2) The amount of money in each section 94 fund was as follows:Drainage $377,000Roads $1,600,000Traffic Facilities $148,000Parking $494,000Open Space $10,462,000Community facilities $5,160,000Civic Improvements $2,562,000Other $928,000

5669 NURSING HOMES AND RESIDENTIAL CARE—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5670 TOUKLEY PLANNING STRATEGY—Mr Paul Crittenden to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—



*5671 SHELLHARBOUR COUNCIL—Ms Peta Seaton asked the Minister for Local Government—

(1) Is the Minister aware of concerns expressed by Shellharbour residents regarding the actions and processes of Shellharbour Council?

(2) Are you satisfied that ICAC correspondence of 29 February 2004 was circulated, as ICAC requested, to councillors?

(3) Is it satisfactory for the general manager to ask the Independent Commission Against Corruption for details of complainants concerns to assist council to manage public comments?

Answer—I provide the following details in response to your questions:(1) I am aware of various concerns raised with my office and the Department of Local Government by

residents about Shellharbour City Council. Both my office and the department treat complaints as valuable information to be used in monitoring the performance of local councils. The department undertook a review of Shellharbour City Council's operations under the Local Government Reform - Promoting Better Practice Review program in December in 2005. As part of that process, the review team considered issues raised in complaints to my office and the department and spoke to a number of residents about their concerns. The review will result in a report containing recommendations to improve council's performance and the department will then monitor council's actions to implement those recommendations.

(2) The question of whether a council circulates ICAC correspondence to councillors pursuant to a request by that agency is a matter between the council and ICAC.

(3) What information a council requests of ICAC and the use to which it puts it is a matter between the council and ICAC.


(1) Is the process by which the Albion Park Airport's activities have been extended satisfactory in terms of:- community consultation- environmental and planning assessment?

(2) Does this situation require a full environmental impact assessment to be undertaken?(3) What precedents exist for such changes to airport or other infrastructure usage without an EIS?Answer—I provide the following details in response to your questions:(1) The Department of Local Government conducted preliminary enquiries into the assessment process

undertaken by Shellharbour City Council. The Department has not found evidence that council acted contrary to the provisions of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

(2) I am advised Shellharbour City Council undertook an assessment for the runway upgrade under Part 5 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (EP&A Act). Shellharbour City Council approved the upgrade works to the runway. The council considered the works to the runway not to be a major expansion of the airport.Under Part 5 of that Act, council has a duty to consider the environmental impact of the activity. Section 111 of the EP&A Act states that for the purpose of attaining the objectives of the Act relating to the protection and enhancement of the environment, a determining authority in its consideration of an activity shall take into account to the fullest extent possible all matters affecting or likely to affect the environment by reason of the activity. Clause 228 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2000 sets out the factors to be taken into account when considering the likely impact on the environment. These factors appear to have been addressed in the council report of 8 March 2005. Council was entitled to rely on its own legal advice on the matter.

(3) I am advised Shellharbour City Council has undertaken a number of upgrades and maintenance projects on the airport relying on Part 4 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act. The environmental planning requirements will vary depending on the nature of the work and the relevant provisions of environmental planning controls at the time the work is to be undertaken.


(1) Will you instigate an inquiry into Shellharbour Council, as requested by concerned local residents?(2) If not, why not?



Answer—I provide the following details in response to your questions:(1) I do not currently intend to instigate a public inquiry into Shellharbour City Council under section

740 of the Local Government Act. (2) Public inquiries under section 740 of the Act are generally only undertaken where there are serious

questions over whether the council should be dismissed. While I have the power to call a public inquiry, this option is a power of last resort. I do not believe grounds currently exist that would warrant a public inquiry.The Department of Local Government is working with councils to improve performance under the Local Government Reform Program - Promoting Better Practice. This involves a team of officers closely evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of aspects of council operations and giving feedback. The process examines council's compliance with various requirements, examines appropriate practices and checks that council has frameworks in place to monitor its performance.A Department of Local Government review team undertook a review of Shellharbour City Council's operations under the Promoting Better Practice program in December 2005.The final report will make a number of recommendations. Council will be required to prepare an action plan in relation to each of the recommendations and the department will monitor council's actions to comply with these recommendations.

*5674 AIR CONDITIONING IN SCHOOLS—Mr Russell Turner asked the Minister for Education and Training—

(1) What is the Department of Education policy on air conditioning within schools throughout the Central West of NSW in:(a) Primary Schools?(b) High Schools ?(c) TAFE Colleges?

(2) What is the hot spots program?(3) Why is Canowindra High School air-conditioned when Cowra High School lacks air conditioning in

most areas?(4) Does the Department have a policy of air conditioning all schools in the Central West?(5) If yes, when will this occur?(6) If not, why should some school children be better equipped for learning than others, through air-

conditioned surroundings, as against temperatures that often exceed 40°C during summer periods in NSW?

Answer—(1) to (6) The Department of Education and Training's Air Cooling Program provides air cooling to

schools in a way that addresses the hottest parts of the State in priority order. The "hotspots" program has been implemented to provide air cooling for classrooms in schools that because of orientation or other factors experience hotter temperatures than the remaining classrooms. Under this program, permanent classrooms are being air cooled in areas down to 30° Celsius mean maximum January temperature.A project is currently under way at Cowra High School to install air cooling at an estimated cost of over $86,000.

5675 PENALTY NOTICES FOR LOW INCOME EARNERS—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter—

5676 311 BUS SERVICE—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5677 LAWSON STREET HEALTH FACILITY—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

*5678 DRUG DEALING IN DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING PROPERTIES—Ms Clover Moore asked the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

Given reported increases in the use and dealing of crystal methamphetamine (ICE):(1) What action is Department of Housing taking to improve security access to its properties in Bligh, to



protect inner city tenants from drug-related crime and violence?(2) How is the Department of Housing working with Police to stop drug dealing from Department of

Housing properties?(3) How does the Department of Housing ensure tenants with a history of illicit drug problems get the

support they need to stop using and maintain their tenancies?(4) What Local Allocations Strategies does the Department of Housing use to reduce the impact of drug

dealing, and other drug related crime, in densely populated inner city estates?Answer—(1) The Department has spent more than $3 million over the last 3 years on improving the security at its

inner city estates. The Department works in collaboration with the Police and the community to increase the level of awareness around personal and community safety.

(2) The Department works with Police under a Memorandum of Understanding. In cases where drug dealing in or around Departmental premises has been proven and charges laid, the Department of Housing will consider taking action to evict the tenant(s) concerned for a breach of the Residential Tenancy Agreement.

(3) The Department of Housing is not aware of a tenant's drug problems unless the tenant provides this information. The Department does not have the authority to force tenants to provide such information or stop them from taking drugs.Where the Department is made aware of tenants with drug related issues, the Department may refer these cases to specialist staff for referral to relevant support services. Acceptance of such services is the individual tenant's choice.

(4) The Department of Housing has a number of formal Local Allocation Strategies in place across the inner city, which state that clients with known drug and alcohol problems will not be housed in particular areas.

5679 NATIVE VEGETATION ACT 2003—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

4 APRIL 2006(Paper No. 173)

5680 ALBURY BASE HOSPITAL—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5681 DISABILITY SERVICES—ALBURY—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Vice President of the Executive Council—

5682 SUPPORTED ACCOMMODATION—ALBURY—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

5683 FIRSTFARMER SCHEME—Mr Ian Armstrong to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

5684 CONDOBOLIN AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH STATION—Mr Ian Armstrong to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

5685 TEMORA AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH STATION—Mr Ian Armstrong to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—



*5686 NOTIFICATIONS AND CASE MANAGEMENT—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—

For the six month period from 1 July 2005 30 December 2005:(1) What are the total number of notifications (reports)?(2) How many of these notifications⁄reports have been appointed case managers?(3) What are the respective figures for the same period in 2004?Answer—The Department of Community Services Quarterly Data Reports provide information on the number of child protection reports received and the number requiring further investigation.

5687 TUNNEL NOISE MITIGATION—Ms Gladys Berejiklian to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5688 REBUILDING OF YAMBA POLICE STATION—Mr Steve Cansdell to ask the Minister for Police—

5689 SIR ERIC WOODWARD MEMORIAL SCHOOL—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5690 GALSTON SUBSTATIONS—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra—

5691 WIRRENA HOUSE—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5692 SUTHERLAND HOSPITAL ASSAULTS—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5693 CRONULLA REPORT—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Police—

5694 CRONULLA REPORT—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Police—

5695 TRAFFIC CHANGES—Mr Wayne Merton to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5696 TUNNEL CHARGES—Mr Wayne Merton to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5697 GRAFFITI INCIDENTS—Mr Wayne Merton to ask the Minister for Police—

5698 V-SET TRAINS—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5699 FERRY TICKET SALES—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5700 TRAIN GUARDS—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5701 TRAFFIC FLOW—Mr Anthony Roberts to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5702 HARBOUR BRIDGE BUS LANE POLICY—Mr Anthony Roberts to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5703 LANE COVE TUNNEL TRAFFIC ESTIMATES—Mr Anthony Roberts to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

*5704 COURT CLOSURES—Mr George Souris asked the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) Is it intended to close the Gulgong and Dunedoo Local Courts?



(2) What impact will this have in the local community?Answer—There are no proposals to close either Gulgong or Dunedoo Local Courts.

5705 LAND SALE—NAMBUCCA HEADS—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5706 POLICE INVESTIGATION—COMPLAINTS—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Police—

5707 POLICE INVESTIGATION—COMPLAINTS—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Premier, Minister for State Development, and Minister for Citizenship—

5708 FAILFORD ROAD—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5709 FAIR TRADING FUNDING—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

5710 WILKINSON CORRESPONDENCE—Mr John Turner to ask the Attorney-General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—


5711 WEEKEND PHONE SERVICE—Ms Pam Allan to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Vice President of the Executive Council—

5712 HOLROYD CITY COUNCIL—Ms Pam Allan to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

5713 CONTROL PLAN 4—Ms Pam Allan to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

5714 COMPLAINTS AGAINST INSURANCE COMPANIES—Mr Richard Amery to ask the Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

5715 MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT SERVICES—ALBURY—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5716 DEPARTMENT POSITIONS—ALBURY—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Vice President of the Executive Council—

5717 ADMINISTRATIVE DECISIONS TRIBUNAL MATTER—Mr Andrew Constance to ask the Minister for Police—

5718 DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY UNIT—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

5719 CROSS BORDER WATER AGREEMENT—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—



5720 WIND FARM AT SPRING HILL—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

5721 CHEMOTHERAPY TREATMENT IN AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5722 STATE TRANSIT BUS COMPLAINT—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5723 TWENTY20 WORLD CUP—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Minister for State Development—

5724 MULTI-BED WARDS—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

*5725 HORNSBY POLICE—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Police—

How many incidents relating to graffiti offences were reported to the Hornsby Police Station during each year 2000 to 2005 inclusive?Answer—The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) analyses NSW recorded crime statistics. I suggest the Honourable Member's question is more appropriately addressed to the Attorney General, within whose portfolio the Bureau resides.

5726 HOSPITAL AUDIT—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5727 HOSPITAL AUDIT—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5728 RAIN WATER COLLECTION AND GREY WATER RE-USE—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra—

5729 REDFERN JUSTICE ACCESS CENTRE—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

5730 METHADONE WAITING LISTS—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5731 CRYSTAL METHAMPHETAMINE—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5732 ALBION STREET LODGE BUILDING—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—

5733 FERTILITY CONTROL MEASURES—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

5734 PLANNING REFORM FUND—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

5735 RIGHT HAND TURNS—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Vice President of the Executive Council—

5736 WATER QUALITY—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—



5737 EPPING ROAD TRAFFIC—Mr Anthony Roberts to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5738 MOWBRAY AND DELHI ROADS—Mr Anthony Roberts to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5739 VICTORIA ROAD TRAFFIC—Mr Anthony Roberts to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5740 PETROL PUMP TESTING—Ms Peta Seaton to ask the Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

5741 INSTITUTE OF TEACHERS—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

5742 SCHOOL BUS SAFETY WORKING GROUP—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5743 "SAFETY IN SYDNEY'S MAJOR ROAD TUNNELS" BROCHURE—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5744 DRUG TESTING—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Police—

5745 BEAUTY POINT UNITS—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

5746 NEW RAIL LINE CONSTRUCTION PROPOSAL—Mr John Turner to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—


5747 STATION INDICATORS—WESTMEAD RAILWAY STATION—Ms Pam Allan to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5748 ELECTRONIC HEALTH RECORD SYSTEM—Ms Pam Allan to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5749 HOME CARE—WEEKEND PHONE SERVICE—Ms Pam Allan to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Vice President of the Executive Council—

5750 ANIMAL RESEARCH—Mr Richard Amery to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

5751 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING OFFICE—TUMUT—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

5752 CONTROL OF ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Police—

5753 CHILD PROTECTION CASE MANAGERS—Ms Gladys Berejiklian to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—

5754 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PROGRAMMES—Ms Gladys Berejiklian to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—

5755 MENTAL ILLNESS—Ms Gladys Berejiklian to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—



5756 PRINCES HIGHWAY—Mr Andrew Constance to ask the Minister for Police—

5757 TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

5758 TEACHER NUMBERS—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

5759 ABORIGINAL ISSUES TRAINING—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

5760 VANDALISM—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

5761 VANDALISM INCIDENTS—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

5762 ARSON—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

5763 ARSON INCIDENTS—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

5764 PROPOSED FRENCHS FOREST HOSPITAL—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5765 DELAYS IN POST MORTEMS—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

5766 COMMUNITY TRANSPORT—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Youth—

5767 CHEMOTHERAPY AND DIALYSIS FACILITIES—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5768 SEWERAGE TREATMENT PLANT CONSTRUCTION—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra—

5769 WAITARA RAILWAY STATION UPGRADE—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5770 STATION ZONING—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

5771 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING PROPERTIES—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Housing, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

5772 CRONULLA LINE—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5773 MENTAL HEALTH CLUBHOUSES—Mr Daryl Maguire to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

5774 WAGGA WAGGA POLICE STATION—Mr Daryl Maguire to ask the Minister for Police—

5775 ACE TENANCY—Mr Daryl Maguire to ask the Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

5776 REDFERN-WATERLOO INDIGENOUS ENTERPRISE—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

5777 DRUGS AND PRISON—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Attorney-General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

5778 SPEEDING TRAINS—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5779 PENSIONER VOUCHER SCHEME—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5780 FARE EVASION—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—



5781 POLICE RESOURCES—Mr Donald Page to ask the Minister for Police—

5782 CERTIFICATE 3 HORTICULTURE—Mr Donald Page to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

5783 ROUSE HILL HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

5784 CCTV WINDSOR STATION—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5785 NOXIOUS WEEDS—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

5786 NURSERY AND GARDEN INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

5787 NOXIOUS WEEDS AMENDMENT ACT—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

5788 NURSERY INDUSTRY DATA BASE—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Natural Resources, Minister for Primary Industries, and Minister for Mineral Resources—

5789 TRAFFIC LIGHTS—GLENHAVEN—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5790 RELOCATION OF DEMOUNTABLE CLASSROOMS—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

5791 IMPORTED RAILWAY ROLLING STOCK BOGIES—Mr Steven Pringle to ask the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts—

5792 FAULTY HEAT SYSTEM—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

5793 LANE COVE TUNNEL DECISIONS—Mr Anthony Roberts to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5794 RESIDENTS HEALTH—Mr Anthony Roberts to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5795 TUNNEL COST ESTIMATES—Mr Anthony Roberts to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5796 ENERGY DIRECTIONS WHITE PAPER—Ms Peta Seaton to ask the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

5797 GAS FIRED GENERATION PLANTS—Ms Peta Seaton to ask the Minister for Energy, Minister for Ports and Waterways, and Minister Assisting the Treasurer on Business and Economic Regulatory Reform—

5798 PINK SLIP BENCHMARKING—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—



5799 PENSIONER COUNTRYLINK TICKETS—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

5800 TRUCK STOP/SERVICE—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

5801 CONSUMER, TRADER AND TENANCY TRIBUNAL ACT 2001—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Western Sydney, Minister for Fair Trading, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Commerce—

5802 CORRECTIVE SERVICE VANS—Mr Ian Armstrong to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure, and Minister for the Hunter—

2 MAY 2006(Paper No. 176)

5803 M7 ACCIDENT'S—Mr Richard Amery to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) For the three-month period ending 31 March 2006, how many accidents have been recorded on the M7 Motorway?

(2) What action is being taken to monitor and suppress breaches of the motor traffic laws on the road?(3) How many persons have been reported for breaches of the traffic laws in the period mentioned

above?(4) For what offences have these motorists been reported?

5804 WATER TANKS—Mr Richard Amery to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) Is Sydney Water monitoring the number of water tanks being installed in properties within the Sydney Basin?

(2) If so, what is the number of tanks installed over the past five years and what is the capacity of water stored in private water tanks in the Sydney Basin?

5805 ANTI-SMOKING PROGRAMS—Ms Pam Allan to ask the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

How will you reduce the high rates of smoking amongst Aboriginal people in Western Sydney?

5806 CITIZENSHIP CEREMONIES—Ms Pam Allan to ask the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

(1) Are you aware of the high costs incurred by Blacktown City Council in the conduct of citizenship ceremonies?

(2) What assistance can you give Blacktown City Council to relieve the financial burden?

5807 ASSISTANCE TO COMMUNITY GROUPS—Ms Pam Allan to ask the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Citizenship—

What assistance can you give to community groups representing Sudanese migrants in the electorate of Wentworthville which aim to increase awareness of citizenship amongst their members?

5808 SOUTH COAST REGIONAL PLAN CRITERIA—Mr Andrew Constance to ask the Minister for Planning, Minister for Redfern Waterloo, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) What criteria was used in the South Coast Regional Plan to identify isolated and sensitive locations?(2) Why wasn't Bermagui included and identified as urban land that needs assessment?(3) How did the Department assess vacant land in and around Bateman's Bay given that much of the

land is already subdivided, developed and⁄or already approved for subdivision?(4) Why is there a need for an independent panel?(5) Who appoints the panel?(6) Are former politicians likely to be on the panel?



(7) What are the criteria for selection?(8) Who supplied demand and supply figures to the Department?(9) When were they supplied and what was relevant year of figure?(10) Is there an intention to decrease urban expansion or future urban-zoned land in Eurobodalla?(11) Are there transitional arrangements for urban-zoned land, ie Long Beach and Rosedale?

5809 STRATHALLEN SALE—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What is the total cost of transferring the existing Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care services and facilities located at the Strathallen Centre in Goulburn?

(2) Where will the clients currently located at Strathallen be accommodated?(3) What is the total cost to the Department of purchasing this alternative accommodation?(4) How many clients are still to be relocated to their new accommodation?

5810 STRATHALLEN SALE—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport representing the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Finance, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Was an independent valuation of the Strathallen property in Goulburn conducted before the sale of this asset to the developers of the Kenmore Hospital site?

(2) If so what was the valuation of the property?(3) What was the final sale price achieved on this property?(4) What State Government regulations govern whether an asset is sold by tender or by private

arrangement?(5) Why was Strathallen not sold through a tender process?(6) Which organisation is responsible for providing independent oversight of the probity of the

Strathallen sale process?

5811 MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) What was the total annual cost to the Greater Southern Area Health Service budget of the Mental Health Family and Carer Support pilot program, which is being phased out between July and September 2006?

(2) In which specific locations was this program operated?(3) How many families of mental health patients accessed this program?(4) What is the total annual funding allocation for the new Mental Health Family and Carer Program,

announced by the Greater Southern Area Health Service Manager of Service Development and Performance Mental Health in April 2006?

(5) In what specific locations will the proposed family and carer advocacy⁄support positions be located?

5812 MEDICAL MISTAKES—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) How many medical mistakes occurred at Hornsby Hospital in 2005?(2) How many of these resulted in:

(a) disability and(b) death?

5813 BREASTSCREEN NSW—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

What number of:(a) 50-69 year old women and (b) 40-49 year old women

have been screened by BreastScreen NSW in each year since 2000 in the Hornsby Local Government Area?

5814 CHILVERS FIRE 2002—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Attorney General, Minister for the Environment, and Minister for the Arts representing the Minister for Justice, Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

Were bulldozers used in fire breaks and back burning in the 2002 Chilvers fire?



5815 RAILWAY STATION ZONE—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

What is the zoning in the vicinity of the following stations:(1) Caringbah?(2) Cronulla?(3) Woolooware?

5816 CRONULLA POLICE STATION—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Police—

What is the date for work to commence on Cronulla Police Station?

5817 RAILWAY STATION UPGRADES—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

Are there any plans to upgrade the following railway stations:(1) Caringbah Railway Station?(2) Cronulla Railway Station?(3) Woolooware Railway Station?

5818 GREATER SOUTHERN AREA HEALTH SERVICE COMPLAINTS—Mr Daryl Maguire to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) How many complaints, regardless of issue, has the Health Care Complaints Commission received about Greater Southern Area Health Service Mental Health?

(2) How many complaints are from the 2650 postcode region?

5819 QUALIFIED MEDICAL EXAMINERS—Mr Daryl Maguire to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) Why is there only one (1) qualified Medical Examiner in Wagga Wagga for women who have been sexually assaulted?

(2) How many qualified Medical Examiners are available in the Greater Southern Area Health Service?(3) Compared to 2004 has the number of Medical Examiners increased or decreased?(4) Why is there a lack of Examiners in Wagga Wagga?(5) Are Examiners covered for insurance purposes should they be called as witnesses in a subsequent

court case?(6) Does the qualification of sexual assault Medical Examiners expose the doctor to litigation through

his or her work?(7) Is it acceptable for a major city to have only one (1) examiner?(8) What have you or the Department of Health done to rectify the lack of Medical Examiners and when

was this action undertaken?(9) When is it expected that this problem will be resolved?(10) How many women in 2005, 2004, 2003 and 2001 were required to travel for examination because

there was no qualified examiner in Wagga Wagga available?

5820 WAGGA WAGGA DENTAL CLINIC—Mr Daryl Maguire to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) How many dentists are employed in the Dental Clinic in Wagga Wagga?(2) When will dentists be appointed to the Wagga Wagga Dental Clinic in order to reduce patients'

waiting time?(3) How many dentists will be appointed?(4) Is advertising in place to attract dentists?(5) Does Greater Southern Area Health Service have adequate funds to employ dentists?

5821 STATE TRANSIT BUS SERVICES—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

In relation to State Transit patronage figures: (1) Since 1 July 2005, how many bus services have recorded less than 10 passenger trips between

Central Station (Railway Square) terminus and Circular Quay terminus? (2) Between the period of 1 July 2004 and 30 June 2005, how many bus services recorded less than 10

passenger trips between Central Station (Railway Square) terminus and Circular Quay terminus? (3) Since 1 July 2005, how many bus services have recorded less than 10 passenger trips between QVB



terminus and Circular Quay terminus? (4) Between the period of 1 July 2004 and 30 June 2005, how many bus services recorded less than 10

passenger trips between QVB terminus and Circular Quay terminus?

5822 SYDNEY FERRIES—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

In relation to Sydney Ferries:(1) How many services to Manly Wharf from Circular Quay have been cancelled since 1 July 2005?(2) How many services to Circular Quay from Manly Wharf have been cancelled since 1 July 2005?(3) How many services to Manly Wharf from Circular Quay were cancelled between 1 July 2004 and 30

June 2005?(4) How many services to Circular Quay from Manly Wharf were cancelled between 1 July 2004 and 30

June 2005?(5) How many times have buses replaced ferry services between Manly Wharf and Circular Quay since

1 July 2005?(6) How many times did buses replace ferry services between Manly Wharf and Circular Quay between

1 July 2004 and 30 June 2005?

5823 TICKET MACHINES—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Transport—

In relation to State Transit:(1) How many reported incidents of on-bus ticket validation machines being out of service have been

made since 1 July 2005?(2) What is the estimated loss of revenue from non-operational on-bus ticket validation machines since 1

July 2005?(3) How much has been spent on repairs to on-bus ticket validation machines since 1 July 2005?

5824 ALSTONVILLE BYPASS PROJECT—Mr Donald Page to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) How long does the existing Ministerial approval for the Alstonville Bypass remain current?(2) What conditions need to be met to keep the Ministerial approval current?(3) Under what circumstances would it be necessary to do a new EIS because of delays in construction?

5825 OMBUDSMAN’S REPORTS INTO COMPLAINTS—Mr Donald Page to ask the Premier, Minister for State Development, and Minister for Citizenship—

(1) When will the Ombudsman's Report(s) into complaints handling at the University of NSW be published?

(2) Will the report deal with:(a) The Bruce Hall matter?(b) The Educational Testing Centre (ETC)?(c) The retirement of Dr John Carmody (elected member of UNSW Council) as a consequence of

making comments about the Bruce Hall matter and the appointment of Dr Stan Bowen-James to the position of General Manager of the ETC?

(3) Why has there been such a long delay in the publication of the final report, given the draft Ombudsman's report was circulated in May 2005?

(4) Is the UNSW being co-operative with the Ombudsman's office in bringing these matters to a conclusion?

(5) Can the Premier request from the UNSW (possibly via the Ombudsman) what the bill for legal advice (both in house and external lawyers) is for the UNSW in defending UNSW employees and ex-employees?

(6) Have any NSW Government agencies been involved in defending or assisting present or past UNSW employees in relation to the issues arising from the draft Ombudsman's report?

5826 HEAVY VEHICLE MOVEMENTS—Mr Anthony Roberts to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) What are the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) estimated projections of heavy vehicle movements through the Lane Cove Tunnel eastbound and westbound for the period 2007 to 2037 inclusive?

(2) What has the RTA based these projections on?(3) How many of these movements will be by heavy duty diesel vehicles?



5827 TRAFFIC PROJECTIONS—Mr Anthony Roberts to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) What are the differences in projected traffic movements per day between the "Active Case" and "RTA Case"?

(2) What are these amounts?(3) How were they derived?(4) What is the explanation for the significant difference between these projections?

5828 LANE COVE TUNNEL TRAFFIC—Mr Anthony Roberts to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

In what year will the sum of traffic from Lane Cove Tunnel and Falcon Street ramps reach 140 000 movements per day based on Roads and Traffic Authority estimates?

5829 "SOSE ALIVE 2"—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

In relation to the Year 7 and 8 textbook "SOSE Alive 2" by Jacaranda Press:(1) Is this book being used in NSW Government Schools?(2) If so, is it a compulsory part of the curriculum?(3) If it is not a compulsory text, in which NSW Government schools is it being used?

5830 HOSPITAL CONTRACT ARRANGEMENTS—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) Does the Hunter⁄New England Health Service have an arrangement with the Cape Hawke Community Private Hospital to use contracted beds in certain circumstances?

(2) If so, does that arrangement basically provide that if Manning Referral Hospital has a shortage of beds, they will invoke the contract with Cape Hawke Community Private Hospital to enable non acute patients of Manning Referral Hospital, who reside in the Great Lakes area, to be relocated to the Cape Hawke Community Private Hospital beds?

(3) If so, why was Terry Cooper an arm amputee who had an operation on his other arm, which rendered that arm unable to be effectively used and therefore made him basically incapable of looking after himself, told on the day of the operation, in January 2006, that he would have to be discharged because the Manning Referral Hospital may need his bed over the weekend?

(4) Why wasn't Mr Cooper offered a bed under the contract arrangements with Cape Hawke Community Private Hospital at the Cape Hawke Community Private Hospital in Forster?

(5) Why wasn't ACTIP (Aged Care Transitional Intervention Program) advised of his forced discharge in January 2006?

5831 TOLL PAYMENT METHODS—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Water Utilities, Minister for Small Business, Minister for Regional Development, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Roads—

(1) What are the methods of payment and where can payment be made for motorists without E-tags using the M7 motorway?

(2) Can a motorist pay the fee for using the M7 motorway at a Post Office with cash?(3) If not, why not?(4) What are the methods of payment and where can payment be made for motorists without E-Tags

using the Cross City Tunnel?(5) Can a motorist pay the fee for using the Cross City Tunnel at a Post Office with cash?(6) If not, why not?

5832 MANUAL HANDLING CO-ORDINATOR—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

(1) Is the Manual Handling Co-ordinator at Manning Base Hospital to be abolished?(2) If so, why?(3) If so, when?(4) Is the manual handling procedure emanating from the Manning Base Hospital recognised as being

best procedure by other medical institutions?(5) If so, why is the position being abolished?



5833 ELECTIVE SURGERY WAITING LIST—Mrs Jillian Skinner to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Health—

How many people have died whilst listed on the elective surgery waiting list at the following hospitals for the periods Jan to Jun 03; Jul to Dec 03; Jan to Jun 04; Jul to Dec 04; Jan to Jun 05; Jul to Dec 05:Albury Base Hospital, Armidale Hospital, Auburn Hospital, Ballina District Hospital, Bankstown⁄Lidcombe Hospital, Batemans Bay District Hospital, Bathurst Base Hospital, Bega District Hospital, Bellinger River District Hospital, Belmont District Hospital, Blacktown Hospital, Blue Mountains District ANZAC Memorial Hospital, Bourke District Hospital, Bowral & District Hospital, Broken Hill Hospital, Bulli Hospital, Byron District Hospital, Canterbury Hospital, Casino & District Memorial Hospital, Cessnock District Hospital, Children's Hospital at Westmead, Coffs Harbour Base Hospital, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Condobolin Hospital, Cooma District Hospital, Coonabarabran Hospital, Cootamundra Hospital, Corowa Hospital, Cowra Hospital, Crookwell Hospital, Deniliquin District Hospital, Dubbo Base Hospital, Fairfield Hospital, Finley Hospital, Forbes Hospital, Glen Innes Hospital, Gloucester Soldiers' Memorial Hospital, Gosford Hospital, Goulburn District Hospital, Grafton Base Hospital, Griffith Base Hospital, Gunnedah Hospital, Hawkesbury Private, Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital, Institute of Rheumatology & Orthopaedics (RPA) formerly Rachel Forster, Inverell Hospital, John Hunter Hospital, Kempsey District Hospital, Kurri Kurri District Hospital, Leeton Hospital, Lismore Base Hospital, Lithgow Hospital, Liverpool Hospital, Macarthur Health Service (Camden + Campbelltown), Macksville District Hospital, Maclean District Hospital, Maitland Hospital, Manilla Hospital, Manly Hospital, Manning Base Hospital, Milton Ulladulla Hospital, Mona Vale Hospital, Moree Hospital, Moruya District Hospital, Mt Druitt Hospital, Mudgee Hospital, Murwillumbah District Hospital, Muswellbrook District Hospital, Narrabri Hospital, Narrandera Hospital, Nepean Hospital, Newcastle Mater Misericordiae Hospital, Orange Base Hospital, Pambula Hospital, Parkes Hospital, Port Macquarie Base Hospital, Prince of Wales Hospital (incl Prince Henry), Queanbeyan District Hospital, Quirindi Hospital, Royal Newcastle Hospital, Royal North Shore Hospital, Royal Hospital for Women, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Ryde Hospital, Scott Memorial, Shellharbour Hospital, Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital, Singleton District Hospital, Springwood Hospital, St George Hospital, St Vincent's Hospital, Sutherland Hospital, Sydney Children's Hospital, Sydney Hospital & Sydney Eye Hospital, Tamworth Base Hospital, Temora Hospital, Tumut Hospital, Tweed Hospital, Wagga Wagga Base Hospital, Wauchope District Memorial Hospital, Wee Waa Hospital, Westmead Hospital, Wollongong Hospital, Wyalong Hospital, Wyong Hospital, Yass Hospital, Young District Hospital?

_________________________________________ Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales



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