2004-02-17
Business Confidence in Labor Government
Mr MILLS to CHIEF MINISTER
You are into your third year of government and you still have failed to win the confidence of the business community. Most recently, it was at a record low of minus 32. Have you asked the business community why they have no confidence in the Labor government?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the Opposition Leader for his question. We have seen an economy in the Territory which we inherited, that was struggling. We might have the Opposition Leader smiling about that, but it is a fact of life. It meant an economy that had a massive deficit that had no growth in it. It meant that for many Territory small businesses things were going very tough. You put that together with the two …
Mr Dunham: Growth is worse now than it ever was.
Ms MARTIN: It is interesting that the Opposition Leader asks the question and yet we get interjections interrupting the answer. Do you have no leadership? Does the Opposition Leader have any leadership so that he can get quiet from his side, Madam Speaker?
Madam SPEAKER: Member for Drysdale, cease your interjections.
Ms MARTIN: We inherited an economy that is going through tough times. If you put that together with the world situation and the impact we had on our tourism market - an industry that employs 15% of the Territory work force in either a direct or indirect way - what we have is an economy and business doing it tough. I am pleased to say that, if you look at some of the indicators of our economy, it is picking up. Some of those key major projects have come into place - last month, the railway. In mid last year we saw gas, which had been talked about for so long - a commitment from the joint venturers in Bayu-Undan to bring gas onshore, a major stimulus and a step change in our economy.
I cannot stand here and say that every small business is suddenly going to do a lot better, but we are seeing a lot of small businesses reporting a pick-up. In tourism, we are currently seeing optimism for this year, and particularly increased optimism for the next year coming. We are working closely with small business. We do not pretend we have their full confidence, but we are working closely and are listening to small business. We are doing what is important for a government, which is to build the big economic picture so that that flow-on will happen in the economy; that we are seeing growth and the underpinnings of how our economy will grow in the future. We are doing the work and what we hear from the opposition is simply the rhetoric.
The Ghan – Benefits for the Northern Territory
Ms LAWRIE to CHIEF MINISTER
Two weeks ago The Ghan arrived in Darwin on its inaugural journey. What benefits will it bring to the Territory?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, this is a very important question because it does underpin the confidence of the tourism industry. When I met with tourism industry operators last night and those involved in tourism Top End, there were smiles on the faces of people involved in tourism because of the early success of The Ghan that, maybe Great Southern Rail did, but nobody predicted. I am very proud to be the head of a government that believed that we would have passenger services. It was not part of the original vision for the railway. A previous railway minister said, ‘Nothing with legs on this railway’. Let me say, there have been 2000 people with legs on that rail already. That is 2000 people who have arrived on the new railway already, and the third Ghan only comes in this afternoon, bringing 435 people to Darwin with it.
What it has done is boost the confidence of both the tourism industry and businesses across the Territory. There is no doubt that, for tourism, February is not traditionally a very good month - it is a difficult month – and yet it is set to be one of the best on record, if not one of the best. Local businesses will be benefiting from the increased tourism activity. We all know how that happens. The retailers’ benefit, accommodation benefits, restaurants and the other flow-on to the economy. Hotels have reported to me that bookings have been strong and that The Ghan has provided them with a spike in guest numbers. Just two of those, Crowne Plaza and Saville Park Suites, are saying that they have very impressive forward bookings. That is terrific.
As we know, The Ghan will bring probably an additional 30 000 passengers through the Territory, and 16 000 of those will be new tourists to the Top End. The injection into the economy will be something like $28m.
Our government spent almost $8m building or upgrading passenger terminals to service The Ghan and to help make this new tourism venture possible. Aligned with this – because the timing has been good – there have been recent arrivals of a number of cruise liners and the visiting American Navy ships. This wet season boost is set to continue with …
Mr Maley interjecting.
Ms MARTIN: It is interesting that the member for Goyder does not want to hear about the boost to the economy. The opposition can stand there saying, ‘What’s happening with small business?’. This, Madam Speaker, is what is happening with small business.
Six cruise ships are set to come to Darwin between now and the end of the month - the member for Goyder might be interested in this - the Adonia, Star Princess, Europa, Aurora, Silver Shadow and Prisendam. These follow earlier visits to Darwin by Seabourn Spirit in November, the Silver Shadow, Columbus and Deutschland. I believe we are seen as a safe and exciting destination in Darwin and that is why we have had the increased number of cruise visits to our port and to our city. with Aa $28m injection from The Ghan and $4m into the economy from those visiting ships. There is significant business generated by the ships’ demand on local suppliers and local services., Aagain, a benefit for small business right across the Territory. We have an opportunity in tourism to build those links between air, sea and the rail - exciting possibilities that we are working on with the operators.
The Ghan arrives at four this afternoon, and if people were impressed by the kilometre length of the first one, this third Ghan this afternoon is one carriage longer. I wish all those passengers a welcome..
Cotton – Cultivation in the Northern Territory
Mr WOOD to MINISTER for PRIMARY INDUSTRY and FISHERIES
In the NT News in November last year, the Chief Minister said:
- Ms Martin said the growing of cotton would be banned outright once the existing genetically modified cotton trials wrapped up. ‘The issue of cotton growing in the Northern Territory has been very controversial,’ she said yesterday. ‘We have listened carefully to the community. I think a very sensible and logical decision is to say no cotton growing in the Northern Territory’.
As Minister for Primary Industry and Fisheries, do you agree with the Chief Minister’s statements . If so, could you tell the parliament what are the sensible and logical scientific reasons – not the political reasons – that your government now says no GM cotton, nor any kind of cotton, will be grown in the whole 1.3 million km2 of the Northern Territory., and why the cotton trials will not continue in Katherine? Could you also please state what legislation your government will use to introduce agricultural censorship – I have used a borrowed line there – to ban the growing of cotton in the Northern Territory, and when will this piece of political hysteria appear?
Madam SPEAKER: Thank you for your short question, member for Nelson!
Mr WOOD: Madam Speaker, the question was probably as short as the answer will be relevant.
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for Nelson for his statement – question, I mean. Yes, you are absolutely right. The Chief Minister made a statement that there will be no cotton growing in the Northern Territory and, yes, I agree with the Chief Minister..
There has been a lot of concern about cotton, genetically modified cotton. The reality is that it is not possible to grow the common variety of cotton in the Territory unless we apply significant amounts of pesticides because of the nature of the Territory and insect presence in the Territory. Yes, we have a vast expanse of land in the Territory, many thousands of square kilometres. The reality is that cotton can grow only in certain areas of the Territory, depending on the geography and the availability of water.
I understand that the member travelled south recently where he had a look at the cotton industry and is probably a convert of the cotton industry. I suppose, since he has been persuaded that cotton is okay and that we can grow it, he will go to Litchfield Shire and present his case to his constituents and urge them to grow cotton in Litchfield. I think he is going to get the same reaction as other areas of the Territory and, as a matter of fact, other states in Australia.
The question about genetically modified cotton is still out there. It has not been answered conclusively. People are still very concerned about products with genetic modification, and it is quite right that the government – any government – has to listen to the people. It is not an hysterical approach; it is something we have considered carefully. My department, together with the Department of Justice, is looking at the complexity of this issue.
You can control what you grow in your area. You do not have to control specifically the product; you can control the application of pesticides, you can apply water plans and you can effectively stop growing certain products in your jurisdiction.
The government is looking very carefully at what we are doing, and we respond to the call of the people. At the same time, we have committed to continue the trials of cotton and they will be concluded. The Chief Minister and I will be meeting with the Chair and Chief Executive Officer of the Cotton Cooperative Research Centre, and the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Cotton Australia to discuss this issue further.
Population Strategy
Mr MILLS to CHIEF MINISTER
The Treasurer’s mid-year report predicts the Territory population to continue its downward spiral. Where is the population strategy this government promised almost three years ago? Your government web site is still promising to have it finished by May 2003. Chief Minister, Territorians are still waiting and, meanwhile, the population is in decline.
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, if the Opposition Leader had a memory, he might remember an answer I gave in this House about the population policy …
Mr Mills: No, the strategy.
Ms MARTIN: Call it what you like. It is very important for the Territory that we look at all components of building our economy and building the population to support that. This government has had a reasonable amount of criticism from the other side of the House about writing a report, doing a strategy, doing a review. I remember standing in this House saying: ‘Yes, we will deal with the population strategy, but we have other elements that we have put in place and we are working on exactly that’.
We are working in the area of the Minister for Business, Industry and Resource Development in migration. We have resources to work further with the Commonwealth and to use the capacity that we have not been using very effectively so far to attract overseas migration. That is one component. It is happening, and we are doing the work.
Another component is marketing the Territory and our opportunities. In the last eight months we have been doing that very successfully around Australia. A CEO of a major national company last week, who was visiting Darwin, said, ‘The image of the Territory where I am is one of go-ahead, it is dynamic and it has really raised the profile of the Territory, the marketing you have been doing, as a place to live, work and invest’. We are doing that work. You can say, ‘wWhere is your strategy, where is your piece of paper?’, we will get there to the piece of paper. We are doing the work. We are making the strategic decisions and getting about and doing it. And I make no apology. I would rather be out there selling the Territory, selling the opportunities, looking at ways that we can raise the profile of the Territory and encourage people to think about moving here, talking about the advantages of living in the Territory - Darwin, the most affordable capital city for housing.
It is a fantastic message to be able to sell around the rest of Australia. When you are in somewhere like Sydney, the average price of a house is something like $600 000. A young couple will never afford that house. Here in the Territory the median price of a house it is somewhere between $213 000 and $214 000 for a median price of a house. It is affordable. We know what a great lifestyle we have got. So while we are out selling the Territory, marketing our opportunities, using opportunities like the freight train and The Ghan and the publicity we have got with that, the Opposition Leader’s best response to that is to say, ‘Where is your strategy?’ I think the point is made.
Government Training Strategy
Mr BONSON to MINISTER for EMPLOYMENT, EDUCATION and TRAINING
Training is a top priority for the Territory under the Martin Labor government. Can the minister please outline to the Assembly the success being achieved in this vital area?.
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for Millner for his question,. because tThe whole area of Employment, Education and Training, particularly training, is an issue that this side of House and this government takes extremely seriously indeed. Our training efforts to this stage of the life of this government stand in stark contrast to the achievements made by members opposite in the days that they filled government ranks. It really is a classic difference, if you like, between the previous government and this one. We will be investing over $160m, well above our weight in per capita terms compared to other jurisdictions in Australia - $160m plus into training over the next three years.
We are going to lift the training effort to create 7000 new apprentices and trainees over the next three years. We are going to provide the most comprehensive employer incentives ever in order to get our local product, our own young, and not-so-young, Territorians, trained. We are beginning to recognise, as is the rest of Australia, with the ageing workforce, the changing nature of the workplace, that those in the work force equally need re-skilling and training in order to keep pace. We have developed and are implementing the Territory’s first ever Jobs Plan, something we called on the CLP to do when they were in government every budget time. Never heard of it. We asked them every year, where is your jobs plan? What are you doing about jobs?
Mr Dunham interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Member for Drysdale!
Mr STIRLING: Inside that Jobs Plan we are going to be working on and producing the first ever comprehensive workplace research and report. That will forensically, strategically guide this government’s deliberation on where it should be putting its training dollars to ensure that every cent we spend is going to advance the Territory’s economic interests to the maximum. Evidence is already there that the government’s efforts are starting to produce – an 8% increase in apprentice and trainee commencement throughout 2003. Compared to 2001 when we came to government, a 32% increase in training numbers, and that is an outstanding result for a small jurisdiction.
In addition, we are putting in place strategies to improve the completion and retention rates of our trainees and apprentices,. because wWe want to see every one who makes a commitment to start an apprenticeship or a traineeship does get through with the certificate at the other end. That is not always possible. We recognise that. However, strategies, increased monitoring, mentoring, better supporting the trainee and apprenticeship in the workplace has already seen the number of trainees and apprentices not completing reduced by 5% over the last 12 months. That is a terrific effort, but one that we want to continue to work on to improve even more over the next 12 months. We would expect to see that with the improved strong employer incentives – the increased monitoring, the support, the better focussed government effort resulting from that Jobs Plan will start to impact even more.
Asian Relations and Trade
Mr MILLS to CHIEF MINISTER
Is it not a fact that the only existence of Asian Relations and Trade within the present Territory government is in the minister’s title? Is it not a fact that Asian Relations is listed as the sixth priority out of seven in the policy development coordination sub-branch of the Department of Business, Industry and Resource Development, and Trade is listed as the fourth priority of five in a completely different branch of the department? Why has the government dropped the ball on Asian Relations and Trade and downgraded it to an afterthought? The CLP government would once again give it the emphasis that it should have in the crucial role that it plays in the development of the Northern Territory.
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I believe the Opposition Leader is starting to believe his own rhetoric, and believes that if he comes in making statements about what the government is doing then it is right. The Opposition Leader, again, is wrong.
Working with countries to our north is a very high priority of this government. Let me tell you in terms of this year where I am intending to go: China, Singapore, and the Philippines, for a start. I, as Chief Minister, will be going to talk trade and tourism in China; to talk trade in the Philippines; and in Singapore to talk new tourism opportunities.
I will be travelling reasonably frequently into countries to our north this year, and to the rest of Australia, talking up the Territory. It is a pity the opposition can do no more than whinge and carp and be negative; part of what we need is every Territorian to be talking up the Territory. We have ten on thisat side of the House who cannot bring themselves to do that because their own political ambitions are so much more important than talking up the Territory.
Regarding the question asked by the Opposition Leader, if he looked at the strategic travel done by my Minister for Asian Relations and Trade and other ministers over the last year, he would realise what a significant part Asian Relations and Trade does play in this government’s activity. We can provide him with a list of the travel that was undertaken, not only by the Asian Relations minister, who was in Jakarta only last month, but other ministers as well.
Just because you want to stand up and make the point that you believe is the truth, it is not always right. As we saw in your attempted censure this morning, Leader of the Opposition, you have to get the facts right.
Underground Power in Northern Suburbs
Mrs AAGAARD to MINISTER for ESSENTIAL SERVICES
The underground power project will create a more reliable electricity network for residents of Darwin’s older suburbs, including my electorate of Nightcliff. Can the minister please inform the House of progress with this project and benefits it will bring to the Territory?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the honourable member for her question. This is a very exciting project. It is a Labor initiative and is something that was promised in the lead-up to the last election. It is something that we are delivering on and something that the people of Nightcliff are very excited about.
Over the past few weeks, there has been substantial and significant progress on this particular matter. I was present at the undergrounding office at Nightcliff a couple of weeks ago for the signing of the contract. It is a $9m agreement that has been signed with NILSEN Electric (NT) Pty Ltd. They will be using about 80% of local contractors to roll this particular project out. It provides certainty of power for Nightcliff, and jobs over the next year or so, in terms of employment, and money for local contractors. So this is very important.
It is part of a larger project, which involves $80m over twenty20 years to 9000 lots in the Darwin area and 16 000 customers. This program will roll out. It is a Labor government initiative and we are very proud of it. There is a contribution by the government of $3m per annum, and a $1m per annum contribution by PowerWater Corporation.
It was very interesting at the signing of the contract; they had a cross-section of the pavement in the undergrounding project. Not only does it provide undergrounding for power, which will certainly cut down the number of black-outs through trees falling over lines, and also some insurance against cyclones, there are other services that are being put through underground - fibre optic cable and telecommunications. As a bonus to residents, there is a concrete top to it, which is also the sidewalk, so not only will people get the services and certainty of power, they will also be getting a new sidewalk along with it. It has many advantages.
I am advised that 80% of the contract value will go to local Territory businesses. Registrations of interest for pre-qualification of subcontractors wereas published in the Northern Territory News between 31 January and 12 February 2004. Those responses are being assessed.
This is an important project. It is a government initiative. It is providing employment. It is increasing certainty of power, and it is a very exciting project for the Nightcliff area. It is a promise that this government is delivering on that was an election promise.
Payroll Tax Thresholds
Mr MILLS to CHIEF MINISTER
Do you agree that bracket creep will force more and more small and medium Territory businesses above the present threshold of $600 000 for payroll tax? When will the government increase the threshold and if not, why not, because the CLP government will substantially lift this threshold.
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, there is no doubt about it, as wages increase, yes, that will happen. We are very aware of that. Payroll tax and its impact is one of the reasons that we have reduced the percentage paid of wages paid from 6.3% to 6.1%. In one of the preparations for the budget, the Treasurer met with representatives of business. We listened very carefully to some of the issues that are impacting on business. While we can claim to be the second-lowest taxing jurisdiction in Australia, we are looking at the taxes.
It is interesting when the Opposition Leader does raise issues like payroll tax. We have moved on payroll tax, where the opposition, when they were in government, did not. We made very strong commitments after talking with business.
Mr Dunham: That is not true. Get your facts right.
Madam SPEAKER: Order! Member for Drysdale, order!
Ms MARTIN: We have moved on payroll tax, and we have seen the impact on business responded to, which was applauded at the time. It is interesting with the Opposition Leader now coming out saying, ‘In government, I am going to abolish payroll tax’. What that means is, look out for the taxes the opposition is going to bring in. We are the only part of Australia – ‘Have we got a new tax deal for you’. A land tax – that is on their agenda. Get rid of payroll tax. We will bring in a land tax. What about a fire service levy? We have the Leader of the Opposition talking such economic mumbo jumbo, this is play school economics at its best, coming from the Opposition Leader.
It is about time you had a briefing to understand what you are talking about. You are making rubbish. You do not understand the funds we receive from the Commonwealth. You do not understand the GST. You do not understand what you are talking about. Let us be very sure, that if we have an Opposition Leader getting rid of payroll tax, look out, because here comes the land tax!
Larapinta Land Development
Mrs AAGAARD to MINISTER for LANDS and PLANNING
Land development is a vital issue for Alice Springs. Can the minister please update the House on action being taken on this front, and can the minister advise if he is aware of any alternative approaches being advocated and their likely consequences if adopted?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the honourable member for her question. This is a very important issue, land release in Alice Springs. Of course, I am talking about the development and proposed development at Larapinta.
It has taken longer than we would have liked. I would like to outline the significant progress that has been made on this issue, then respond to a few comments that have been made by members opposite and outline the processes that they have advocated , not being feasible.
As members would be aware, this proposed development at Larapinta is going to yield a total of 85 residential allotments;, that is in the stage that is being proposed now. In the longer term, there could even be several hundred blocks involved in this development in further stages.
The progress I am alluding to is that the Development Consent Authority has recently given in-principle approval to the layout and design of the proposed developments in two stages. Now, issues related to the protection of areas of cultural significance are being finalised with the Lhere Artepe prior to the signing of an Indigenous Land Use Agreement, or ILUA.
There has been $1.5m allocated from the Capital Works Program for the provision of head works. This is essentially for the construction of an intersection on Larapinta Drive that has commenced. Other head works currently under design include construction of a pumping station, extension of Albrecht Drive and electrical works. As I said previously, ultimately, the Larapinta Valley could yield several hundred lots.
Recently, the member for Macdonnell, I think on behalf of all members opposite, has come out with a few statements and suggestions about how he and the CLP believe that this …
Mr Elferink: If you started that project on time you would have a bargaining chip. That’s not what you have now.
Dr BURNS: Madam Speaker, if I might continue. If he would listen he might learn something. The members opposite, through the member for Macdonnell, have made some suggestions that, when it boils down to it, will line the pockets of lawyers with millions upon millions of dollars. We saw that under the CLP government with the Kenbi Land Claim. What the member for Macdonnell is advocating here is just going to bog down in exactly the same way.
Mr DUNHAM: A point of order, Madam Speaker! The question generally did ask for an opinion and the minister is giving one, but it does offend standing orders in that the question should not ask the minister for an expression of his opinion.
Madam SPEAKER: The minister is just responding to the question that was asked.
Dr BURNS: This is from page 1 of the Alice Springs News of 11 February 2004. The member for Macdonnell, in relation to statements, said there should be compulsory acquisition of this land in Larapinta and beyond. He said:
Now he says he is echoing the stance …
Mr ELFERINK: A point of order, Madam Speaker! I have no problem dealing with this issue, however, at the end of the day, if you are going to attribute quotes to me, he should do it accurately.
Madam SPEAKER: You know very well that if you feel you have been misquoted, you can make a personal explanation.
Mr Elferink interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Member for Macdonnell, order!
Mr Elferink interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Minister, would you resume your seat, please? We are in Question Time. There are people in the Territory trying to listen to these answers. There are far too many interjections at the moment. Minister, you have the floor.
Dr BURNS: Thank you, Madam Speaker. I will come back to this article in the Alice Springs News.
Dr Lim: I think the minister should read accurately.
Madam SPEAKER: Minister, would you resume your seat? Member for Greatorex, I had not finished speaking when you made a back answer. Now, do not! My patience is becoming very thin. If I speak, I expect you to listen and at least show courtesy. Minister.
Members interjecting.
Dr Lim interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: It is not your turn to speak. Even you can understand that but, of course, people listening to this broadcast will have heard your bad manners.
Dr BURNS: If I could return to this article in the Alice Springs News, 11 February. The headline says, ‘Make Housing Blocks Without Native Title Consent: CLP Call’. I was illustrating the quote attributed to the member for Macdonnell. It says:
- Now he says he is echoing the stance on the issue of the CLP Parliamentary Wing, that the Government should without further delay, unilaterally determine what it considers fair compensation, and pay that amount into a trust account for later distribution to native title holders at their discretion.
Then he goes on to say:
‘The NT Lands Minister needs merely to sign a directive acquiring the title and the acquisition is a reality,’ says Mr Elferink.
I have had some advice about the processes involved in compulsory acquisition, and the member for Macdonnell is correct, that there is capacity within the Native Title Act for compulsory acquisition of lands within town boundaries, but there is a process that has to be followed. It is not the minister signing off on an order for compulsory acquisition and it happens tomorrow, and the bulldozers move in the next day,. iIt just does not happen like that.
I will go through the process for the edification of members opposite. This is a CLP position. It is not a well thought-out position, because, as I will illustrate here, this acquisition could take between 18 months and three years. Not only that, it would also cause so much bad blood and hostility that it would lock up the release of future lands around Alice Springs for a long time.
Mr DUNHAM: A point of order, Madam Speaker. Now he is offering an opinion on CLP policy,.. This minister is definitely offering an opinion on things he knows nothing about.
Madam SPEAKER: There is no point of order, however, you are taking a long time to answer this question.
Dr BURNS: This is a very important issue for the citizens of Alice Springs. First, this is the process under the act: Aa notice of acquisition must be published, followed by an objection period of four months and ten days. Then, by law, the minister must consult with objectors for a period set at four months, and that is starting 14 days after the last day for lodgement of an objection. It is now about nine months from the original publication of the acquisition.
If this does not have an agreed outcome – and I very much doubt it would, given the approach advocated by the CLP – the disagreement would then be heard by the Lands and Mining Tribunal, which hears the objection. There are no time limits under the act regulating the way the tribunal hears the objection. Another six to nine months is entirely likely. Of course, after that, there is a strong possibility of a challenge in the Supreme Court and the Full Court of the Supreme Court. If this happens it could add another 18 months at least.
Mr Dunham: Wrong.
Dr BURNS: Madam Speaker, some of the members opposite are saying, ‘Wrong, wrong’. This is legal advice that I have received. The bush lawyers on the other side say it could take 18 months to upwards of three years. The CLP’s policy on land development in Alice Springs would effectively lock up land development in the town for an indefinite period. Madam Speaker, you made some comments in relation to this. You advocated that:
- The best solution would be for a resolution, an agreement between the two parties. I don’t think we want to use a confrontational method at the moment.
This development of Larapinta is very important. It has made substantial progress. It has not occurred as quickly as everyone would like, but I believe it sets the model for future development in Alice Springs, and I am wholeheartedly behind it and I support it. The opposition has just shown how they do not understand the legislation or the process.
Payroll Tax
Mr MILLS to CHIEF MINISTER
Before the 2001 election you promised to: ‘Reduce the payroll tax burden to levels comparable to our nearest state competitors’. Given that the threshold before payroll tax kicks in is 42% higher in Queensland than the Territory, and in Western Australia 25% higher, just when does the Chief Minister intend to make the Territory regime comparable?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, it is an important question because making the Territory payroll tax equivalent to our immediate neighbours is a commitment we gave and something we are working on.
If the Opposition Leader would look at the forward estimates he would see that another $3m is allocated in the forward estimates for next year to reduce payroll tax. We have done that consistently over the last two financial years, and we will continue to look at taxes and charges in direct comparison with our immediate neighbours - in that we are talking about Western Australia, Queensland and South Australia – and to make up …
Mr Mills: That was your commitment.
Ms MARTIN: It is interesting; the Opposition Leader asks a question and cannot stop talking.
Mr Mills: How about answering.
Ms MARTIN: Maybe if you understood what the question was you would understand that I was answering it.
A member: He is reading the script.
Ms MARTIN: Yes, he is reading the script and is not quite sure.
We have made strong commitments on payroll tax. We are meeting those strong commitments and will continue to meet them.
Health Clinic at Nguiu
Mr WOOD to MINISTER for TRANSPORT and INFRASTRUCTURE
Recently, your department called for tenders for the new health clinic at Nguiu. Four companies were invited to tender and, when the tenders closed, the lowest tender was not announced, as is normal under the Australian Standards for invited tenderers. Instead, your department decided to negotiate with the three lowest companies in what could be described as a Dutch auction. Which company was the lowest tenderer at the close of the tender, and the value of that quote? Which company was the lowest tenderer after the Dutch auction, and what was the value of the new quote? What was the government’s initial budgeted figure for the health clinic? Would you consider reimbursing the companies that missed out on this tender for all the time, effort and money they put into preparing quotes - which appears to be a cover-up by your department for poor estimates for major works - by improperly changing the rules and, therefore, forcing companies to slash their profit margins to a point where it is hardly worth tendering?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I welcome the question by the member for Nelson. On this particular issue, I am assured and advised by the department that Territory procurement guidelines were followed. I hear what the member for Nelson says about Australian guidelines and standards. However, I believe there is room to move within the procurement guidelines for something that is called value. There are judgments made about value for money in that it might not necessarily be the lowest tender. That was originally brought in at the behest of industry to try to give local contractors a go against southern contractors. They might not necessarily be the lowest, but they might also provide other benefits to the Territory.
I have received further representations by the TCA on this issue. They want government to examine the whole issue of moving towards the Australian Standards. That is one issue that you have raised, and certainly industry has raised that with me and I am prepared to look at that.
Regarding who was the lowest bidder and who the three companies were, honestly, member for Nelson, I do not know. I do not think it is appropriate for me, as minister, to know those things. However, I have some advice on this particular matter, and I would offer you, if you want, a briefing on the issue as well.
I am advised by the department that 27 sets of tender documents were sent out in September of last year. Tenders closed in October. Four responses were received.
It is important to remember that this particular project is a Commonwealth-funded project. There was an anticipated cost that the Commonwealth had pegged against the project. The Procurement Review Board requested the scope of the works be negotiated with each of the four tenderers in order to achieve construction within the budget. The scope of the works as a result of those discussions was not reduced greatly. However, the Commonwealth then decided it was going to contribute additional funding to enable the contract to proceed. I am advised that a contract has recently been awarded to a local builder. Construction will commence on 1 March. I have already tried to deal with the issues about the Australian Standards. I am prepared to look at it. If the member wants a further briefing from the department, I am more than happy to arrange that.
Defence Support Spending
Ms LAWRIE to MINISTER for DEFENCE SUPPORT
Could you please update the House on the government’s many initiatives to assist Territory business to benefit from Defence Support spending?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague, the member for Karama, for her question. As we all know, the Department of Defence Army, Air Force, Navy expenditure in the Northern Territory is a huge part of our economy and also a significant part of our population. As minister, and government, we do work intensively, not only with the Defence Department, but also with the individual arms of Army, Navy and Air Force, the prime contractors, bodies such as AIDN Northern Territory, and Northern Territory businesses to ensure that Territory business wherever possible can get maximum benefit from Defence presence and operation and capital expenditure in the Northern Territory.
Last year, in recognition of this importance, the Defence Industry Support Division was established with the creation of a position of Deputy Secretary with extra resourcing to give it real weight in the department. There is a lot happening in this area. It is a pity that, from the new spokesman opposite, the opposition is behind the times in terms of what is actually happening in this very important area. In the Northern Territory News today - I do not have the advertisement with me - my department is running training seminars in Darwin to work directly with potential business operators who are looking to gain work on Defence contracts. They will advise them on how to best bid and to partner for defence work that is coming through in Darwin.
Recently, in Katherine - the member for Katherine will be aware of this - my department again facilitated a briefing session. Eighty private sector people attended that briefing session in regarding to the Bradshaw Field Training Area project, the capital expenditure that is going to take place this year. It was a briefing for business people in Katherine that was welcomed. It was an initiative that I made in Katherine last year, also offering to support the establishment of an AIDN Katherine branch and that was welcomed by local people.
We are doing much to ensure that our private sector businesses understand the opportunities that are there now and emerging in regards to Defence expenditure in the Northern Territory. There are some terrific success stories,; for example, General Dynamics in the Territory, who are already doing great business with the maintenance of 1st Brigade’s ASLAVs. I met with senior executives from that company recently and, depending on the Army’s decision in terms of their new field tank purchase, if the Army goes with the Abrahams tanks, General Dynamics are going to be very well positioned in the Northern Territory for a significant increase, not only in terms offor their own business, but outsourced business to local firms. We are working with them to ensure that we can meet their needs if that decision falls the way that they hope it will.
Members will also recall the work the government has done with Australian Aerospace in terms of the Tiger Helicopter Squadron; DMS in regard to the patrol boats that are going to be based here; working with those primes to ensure that they have local industry plans in place, so that local businesses in the Northern Territory can have avenues to partner with those primes. Australian Aerospace and DMS are absolutely committed, and are working very closely with my department and Territory business to ensure that as much of that support work and through life support, 20 years through life support for the helicopters and patrol boats, can be done in the Northern Territory. Territory businesses which are working with my department and with these companies are very appreciative of the support that we are providing.
There has been a lot of discussion about whether there is going to be a US defence base in the Northern Territory or exercises. We are working with the Department of Defence. I wrote to the Defence Minister again last week with the latest rounds of conjecture, seeking a briefing from the Commonwealth on exactly what is being discussed and proposed. We all know the rumours. We are chasing additional defence exercises in the Northern Territory.
Last year, the Chief Minister was in San Diego talking to the US Navy and actively pursuing an extension of the Sea Swap trials the US Navy had in Fremantle last year. A couple of months ago, my department, along with the private sector, attended a significant conference in Singapore seeking extensions of Sea Swap trials in Darwin, and the capacity for Territory businesses to be accredited to US Navy standards to provide additional support when they are in port in Darwin. There is a lot happening. The department is working cooperatively with Territory-based business and the major primes, as well as the individual arms of the Defence Forces. It is an area of my portfolio responsibilities that I take very seriously. We on this side of the House are doing everything we can to ensure that our Territory businesses benefit to the maximum they possibly can through Defence expenditure in the Northern Territory.
HIH Insurance Levy
Mr MILLS to CHIEF MINISTER
How long do you intend to tax Territory businesses to pay for the collapse of HIH? Is it not a fact that it is your policy that this tax will continue for another 11 to 13 years? We will abolish this unfair impost on Territorians. Why don’t you?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, the HIH levy is an issue for Territory businesses. When it first emerged and the CLP was in government, this is exactly the method they were promoting: to put such a levy on business. Even though they shake their heads, that is exactly what they proposed.
As I said in response to the previous question, we review the tax situation constantly and, of course, in the run-up to a budget, we are looking at it closely. We are talking to businesses. I say to Territory businesses: we are listening to your concerns. This is a government that listens and acts.
Supported Accommodation – Government Policy
Mr BONSON to MINISTER for FAMILY and CHILDREN’S SERVICES
Housing support for people with disabilities and high support needs has been limited for many years in the Northern Territory. Students and parents of the Nemarluk School in the Millner electorate would like to know if you can inform the House of current initiatives developed to address this issue.
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for his question. Yesterday, I and the Minister for Health launched our Building Healthier Communities framework, and it was a great day. Within this framework, this government – and it is outlined in there – is committed to ensure that Health and Community Services meets the needs of all Territorians.
In this framework, we have committed to providing appropriate and sustainable accommodation support to people with disabilities and high support needs. The Labor government has already secured an additional 21 places for people with moderate to high supported accommodation needs in Palmerston and Darwin. We have listened to the community and service providers in the disability sector who have been calling for supported accommodation for people with severe disabilities closer to home. On 12 February, the Department of Health and Community Services called for proposals from disability providers to establish three new community accommodation services. This will assist in addressing the long-standing unmet accommodation support needs for people with very high support needs.
A total of $1.3m has been committed and allocated to providing new supported accommodation for people with disabilities and high support needs in Darwin, Katherine and Alice Springs. These new services will provide a total of 10 places for people with very high and complex needs. It is expected that the services will be fully operational by July 2004, with current identified clients being transitioned into services from May 2004. I look forward to providing the House with further details in the future on how we will deliver on commitments outlined in the Building Healthier Communities framework.
Adult Guardianship Board
Ms CARTER to MINISTER for FAMILY and COMMUNITY SERVICES
I congratulate the minister on her elevation. Last month, the Deputy Coroner, Elizabeth Morris, investigated the death of Rita Anderson, and found that, and I quote from the NT News:
- … the extent of powers and orders made under the Adult Guardianship Act needed to be clarified, …
and that,
… the Adult Guardianship Board’s practice and procedures need to be reviewed to better manage and expedite applications.
What steps have been taken to pursue these actions, and when will they be completed?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for her question. The member has had a briefing in relation to this issue and, as often has been repeated in this Assembly in terms of pointing to one specific case, we cannot keep looking at just a single issue. In regard to adult guardianship and the coroner’s report, that act sets out a process whereby an individual’s decision-making rights are removed and a substitute decision-maker, who is the legal guardian, is appointed. You would know, through your briefing, that this process involves the registration of the application, either with the local court or the Adult Guardianship executive officers. There are a number of things that you go through in that process which you have been briefed about and, as part of that briefing, there was an undertaking to come back to you with information which is something that has been provided as soon as possible.
When adult guardianship is made, some of those orders can be temporary. They can last for 90 days, or conditional, it could go for about two years. It can cover decisions in relation to accommodation, health care, day-to-day care, training and rehabilitation and financial management. As we all know, guardianship does not include the right to give consent to restrain an individual, which was highlighted in the coroner’s report. The act specifically refers to all decisions being made in the individual’s interest, and also less restrictive. The Mental Health and Related Services Act is the only act which includes a right to restrain an individual, and this is within a specified time frame. The Mental Health Tribunal is the only body which can specify how and where a restrain is allowed.
National Basketball League – Darwin Match
Mr BONSON to MINISTER for SPORT and RECREATION
Tomorrow night, Territorians will have the opportunity to witness the National Basketball League at its best at a game between the Perth Wildcats and the Brisbane Bullets. Can you please outline the benefits of this exciting new sports initiative?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for Millner for his question. Members will recall that I spoke briefly at the end of last year about the first ever premiership match of the National Basketball League to be held in the Territory when the Perth Wildcats take on the Brisbane Bullets tomorrow night at the Marrara Indoor Stadium.
As with our recent three year AFL agreement, the contract with the Perth Wildcats not only includes annual away games, but annual development clinics for players and coaches, visits to schools, shopping centres and the Royal Darwin Hospital. Wildcats players would also hold annual clinics in Alice Springs and remote communities. In fact, I believe there are a couple of players at Nauiyu Nambiyu, or they may have chosen somewhere else, given the news this morning that there was a bit of a brawl there on the weekend and the liquor outlet had to be closed at the crossing.
In addition to a great game, spectators will be treated to, in the words of Wildcats part-owner with Luke Longley, Mr Andrew Vlahov, ‘the full Hollywood show’. The full National Basketball League line-up of choreographed dancers, DJ, game night entertainment, prizes and giveaways, mascot and courtside announcements will form part of the evening’s entertainment. This is the real deal in terms of a spectacular night of entertainment. Ticket holders have much to look forward to.
I believe Territorians have embraced this opportunity. I understand the game is a complete sell out with 1400 spectators expected, and 120 extra standing room only tickets going on sale at 9 o’clock this morning. This is a fantastic demonstration of support by Territorians and good news for the Wildcats, the National Basketball League and the Northern Territory.
However, there is more to these types of agreements than just the razzle-dazzle of showmanship and elite sport. The primary purpose is, obviously, to bring the highest level of national sport to Territorians. In addition, these events promote the sporting code to Territorians through role modelling and, hopefully, encourage the people of the Territory into participation and a healthier lifestyle.
The Darwin Basketball Association has jumped to take advantage of this fantastic agreement. They, unlike my learned colleague, Mr Peter Maley from the seat of Goyder, in his statements this morning, fully understand that by spending money to secure these agreements the effect will be, in the words of the DBA Development Officer, Kym Prestwood:, ‘Immeasurable and will have ripple effects for a long time to come’.
The value of such outcomes cannot be underestimated, particularly in remote areas of the Northern Territory. This is yet another illustration of a big, interstate-based national sporting team - in this case the Perth Wildcats - recognising that the Territory has a lot to much to offer in terms of supporter--based sports enthusiasm and investment opportunities. I have no doubt that the Wildcats and the Bullets will also benefit from their visit to the Territory, with the many sights to see and the friendly nature of Territorians. It can only be good for the future of tourism.
I thank the hardworking staff in my department who have taken extra pains to get this agreement with the Wildcats right. They have worked hard to realise the fantastic outcome for the Territory.
I also thank and welcome the Wildcats to the Territory. I am sure that, in return for them taking the initiative to make Darwin their home, Territorians will reward them tomorrow night with 100% support that they rightly deserve. We can help them in this small way so that they can hopefully make, hopefully, the play-offs for this year.
I am excited about tomorrow night’s game and look forward, along with other Territorians, to reaping the benefits of this agreement. In addition to the lovely wet weather we are currently experiencing., February 2004, with the football 10 days ago and the basketball tomorrow evening, will long be remembered as the month that it rained cats and dogs in the Territory.
Mr HENDERSON (Leader of Government Business): Madam Speaker, I ask that further questions be placed on the Written Question Paper.
Last updated: 09 Aug 2016