2010-06-10
Mining Super Profits Tax
Mr MILLS to CHIEF MINISTER
In his attempt to quell opposition to his proposed super mining tax, the Prime Minister is today offering the resource-rich states of Western Australia and Queensland the bulk of the infrastructure. However, the Prime Minister makes no mention of compensating the resource-rich Northern Territory - and why should he? Whereas Western Australia and Queensland have made plain their strong objections to this jobs-destroying tax, the Territory’s Chief Minister has cheerfully supported an attack on our largest industry. We have seen it all before, most recently with your failure to negotiate a better deal for Territorians at the health summit. When are you going to stand up for the interests of the Territory? When will you learn that when Kevin Rudd says: ‘Here, boy’, you do not always have to heel?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, this is the Leader of the Opposition who, when Malcolm Turnbull said he would oppose the stimulus package, rolled over, put his paws in the air, and said: ‘Tickle my tummy. We are going to walk away from $800m-worth of stimulus to the Northern Territory; we are going to walk away from every school in the Northern Territory being upgraded; we are going to walk away from hundreds of homes being built in the Northern Territory - tickle my tummy’. You, put your paws in the air – that was the Leader of the Opposition.
Of course, I have had discussions with the Prime Minister, and an absolute assurance regarding this infrastructure fund. Currently, we are talking around $600m for the Northern Territory over a 10-year period. We are about 10% of the nation’s resources outputs, so we would get 10% of the fund. This is what they are walking away from: around $70m a year for road improvements and new roads across the Territory; $70m a year that will not go into the port. This is what they would walk away from.
When the CLP proposed a 35% profits-based tax in the Territory. That used to be their position - a profits-based tax. That used to be bipartisan support; it is not now. Obviously, the CLP now supports an ad valorem tax rate where miners in the Territory, as soon as they put a shovel in the ground, will be paying royalties. Well, if that is your new position, that is your new position.
We are sticking by the profits-based regime we have in the Northern Territory which has served the Territory mining industry well, has delivered jobs for Territorians, and business opportunities for Territorians. If there is one person who continually rolls over to Canberra, it is the Leader of the Opposition, whose head has never been violated by an original thought.
Sensis Business Index –
Business Confidence
Business Confidence
Ms SCRYMGOUR to CHIEF MINISTER
Today’s Sensis business confidence register listed the Territory as the most confident place in Australia. Do you have evidence that supports these Sensis findings?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for Arafura for her question. Territory business is confident about the future in the Northern Territory, unlike the rabble opposite. All they can do, at every corner, is talk the Territory down.
Territory businesses are the most confident in Australia. Business confidence in the Territory sits at 57%, compared with only 31% nationally. Confidence in government policy sits at the second highest in Australia; in particular, businesses like the Small Business Programs that were an initiative of this government. It is important we continue to liaise and talk with business. This is where, fundamentally, the approach of the Northern Territory government to the economy is so different to the opposition’s.
We believe in the future and the people of the Northern Territory. We know we are in between major projects; that is why we have committed $1.8bn for capital infrastructure to build and provide business in the Northern Territory, with opportunities and jobs for Territorians - unlike the opposition, which would slash and burn, and cut spending. That is the position.
I spoke with over 130 business people just a couple of Sundays ago, along with the Treasurer and the Business minister, and asked them for their views in regard to the next medium-term cycle of the Northern Territory’s economy, and what government should and should not be doing. All of those business people said: ‘You need to continue to spend, Chief Minister. What you are actually doing is absolutely the right thing; we need this stimulus from the Commonwealth and the Territory governments’.
Many people said, without the stimulus in our budget last year, and the Commonwealth government’s stimulus, they would have had to put off people. They certainly said that anybody who is running around saying you should cut spending, cut the stimulus, does not know how the Territory economy works. That is the difference between us and the CLP.
Business confidence in the Territory is very robust at the moment at 57%. This is a government that will continue to listen to business, work with business, and have confidence in the Northern Territory - unlike those people sitting opposite.
FreightLink Sale – Recovery of Loan Money
Mr MILLS to CHIEF MINISTER referred to TREASURER
Everyone in the Chamber would agree the announcement that FreightLink has been sold nearly three years after going through administration is good news. What is not good news is the $50m debt the railway has with the government was not included as a part of the sale and is still in the hands of receivers. What are the chances of the Northern Territory ever seeing the $50m again?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, it is good news. I will agree with the Leader of the Opposition that the sale of the railway has gone through to Genesee and Wyoming is good news. The comments I have heard today indicate that, like any good business, they are going to seek to grow their business, and that is fantastic news for the Northern Territory.
In fact, we actually wrote off this debt some years ago in our budget. For a more detailed response, I will flick to the Treasurer.
Ms LAWRIE (Treasurer): Thank you, Chief Minister. Definitely, this is a very good sale for the Territory, and I am glad the opposition acknowledges that. In a bipartisan approach, we all recognise the strategic and significant importance of an infrastructure project such as the Alice to Darwin railway to the Territory. The Northern Territory contributed $190m towards that $1.4bn project, and all of that funding has been accounted for and provided for in previous budgets, including the write-off of the $50m outstanding debt about four years ago.
Sensis Business Index –
Business Confidence
Business Confidence
Mr GUNNER to MINISTER for BUSINESS and EMPLOYMENT
Our small and medium business sectors make such an important contribution to our economy and creating jobs, particularly in our regions. Can you advise what the latest Sensis report, which was released this morning, has to say about small and medium business confidence?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, the latest Sensis Business Index is very good news for the Northern Territory. Just following on from the Chief Minister, it is great to see the initiatives this government has put forward have borne fruit. We have raised a number of initiatives. The Resources minister has been travelling interstate and overseas to attract investment; the Chief Minister also; and I have on my missions overseas and interstate as well. So, it is great to see those results.
Picking up on the first question from the Leader of the Opposition, perhaps I will introduce my little friend here, little chicken little. We should call it little Terry, because he is running around saying the sky is going to fall with the super profits tax. It is not going to fall; we have massive investments in the Northern Territory. We have projects happening here. We have businesses opening in the Northern Territory and there is a great confidence within the business community in the Territory. The only …
Members interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Order! Order!
Mr KNIGHT: Madam Speaker, the only problem we have is, we have so much work, we are actually having trouble finding workers. That is the only problem that businesses have, which is incorporated into the Sensis Business Index.
The government did step up to the plate. The Chief Minister did say we have to get some business for local industry and businesses.
I can advise the House that, thus far this year, in our procurement area, within the infrastructure area, 96% of all contracts issued have gone to local businesses - 96%. That is an astounding effort ...
Members interjecting.
Mr KNIGHT: They do not seem to like it. I think it is a great result. Local businesses are getting the opportunity. Before, we had the silver circle - a select, exclusive group of donors, mainly, used to get the work. What happened with the CLP? This is what happened: tradies were leaving town. This was the nett loss to the Northern Territory in population. This was the CLP legacy of population …
Members interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Order! Order!
Mr KNIGHT: … utes leaving town, trucks leaving town, skilled workers leaving town.
This is Labor: the population is growing, workers are coming to the Northern Territory, businesses are starting, and we are supporting those businesses. We will not go back to the old silver circle exclusive donor-based contract issued to those businesses. We are for all businesses in the Northern Territory, and we will support them.
Child Abuse – Reporting by Social Workers
Ms CARNEY to MINISTER for CHILDREN and FAMILIES
The Care and Protection of Children Act makes it an offence to fail to report suspected child abuse to the police or the CEO of Health. The opposition has obtained an e-mail from the Director of Allied Services at Royal Darwin Hospital directing social workers at the hospital to discuss cases of children at risk with their supervisors before reporting them. Why are social workers employed by your department being asked to delay reporting of suspected cases of child abuse when the law clearly states it is an offence not to do so as soon as possible?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for her question. I really appreciate her passion about children’s services; I share the same passion with her. However, according to what she said, the request was to discuss with a supervisor prior to reporting to police. The e-mail did not stop the reporting to police, it was only to discuss with a supervisor. I cannot find anything wrong with that, and I will be very ...
Ms Carney interjecting.
Mr VATSKALIS: I find nothing wrong with this e-mail requesting to discuss it with a supervisor.
I would be very offended, and I would have stepped in immediately, if that e-mail said, ‘discuss it with me, but do not report it to the police’. They are obliged; they have to report to the police. Should I find out anyone prohibited any person in the department, or anywhere in the public service, from reporting child abuse to police, I will take immediate action. I will put someone out the door immediately.
Ross Highway – Road Condition
Ms ANDERSON to MINISTER for TRANSPORT
On the Ross Highway near the Ross River Resort, there is a large hole in the bitumen which has been there since January. This hole is on a bend in the road near a large tree, and there is a six-foot drop-off at the road’s edge with nowhere to pull off. The only thing that has happened at this site since January is the warning signs have been stolen. This is an extremely dangerous and potentially fatal situation for resort guests, tourists and other road users. When will action finally be taken to fix this road?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for her question. In relation to the question, I would really like the specific details. The department measures it in chainage, but we will get local knowledge on that.
In relation to this good question, it does go back to incredible weather conditions in Central Australia. I have detailed briefs on the projects we have to complete; they are vast, they are complex, and the problem has been mobilising heavy earthmoving equipment and getting out into those areas ...
Members interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Order!
Mr McCARTHY: We have the details about where we have to go and what we have to do. You are correct, it is about mobilising. Give me the specific detail of that job and we will compare it against the programs we have. It is in our interests to get this network repaired. Territorians and people right across the country would realise the challenges we have …
Mr Bohlin interjecting.
Mr McCARTHY: I can talk over the top of that. On one hand, we have ...
Mr Bohlin interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Member for Drysdale!
Mr McCARTHY: … a pastoral industry which is booming and celebrating these weather conditions, and our cattle exports are testifying to that. On the other hand, we have huge challenges in the bush, which I admit. I welcome further information, thank you, member for Macdonnell.
Henderson Government’s Support for Jobs
Ms WALKER to TREASURER
The ABS has released the latest employment figures today. Can you outline how the Henderson government is supporting jobs?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for Nhulunbuy for her important question. Yes, the ABS labour force data out today shows good news for the Territory; we have the nation’s lowest unemployment rate, yet again. It has fallen to 2.9%, which is the lowest rate since December 2006. The Territory has actually had the lowest unemployment rate in the nation for the past eight months. It is no secret that if you want a job, come to the Territory - with more than 700 new jobs created in the last month alone.
Our record investment in infrastructure, that all-important $1.3bn in the 2009-10 budget, backed up with the $1.8bn record investment in the 2010-11 budget, is about supporting jobs. We are seeing that flowing through to the lowest unemployment figures in the nation. We are seeing those projects across all sectors: schools, health, and the roads - and a record maintenance budget will help fix those potholes, member for Macdonnell. The construction sector is reaping the rewards of this massive investment in infrastructure. We are getting the benefits of that all-important Commonwealth stimulus plan funding, which is a plan the CLP rejected, but is making a real difference across our schools’ infrastructure.
The Henderson government is focused on jobs through the tough times, ahead of the major projects, so we are seeing a real effect flowing through to our strong economy and our enviable economic data in unemployment figures.
Public Servant’s Refusal to Answer
Ombudsman’s Questions
Ombudsman’s Questions
Ms CARNEY to MINISTER for CHILDREN and FAMILIES
When the Director of Allied Services at Royal Darwin Hospital appeared before the Ombudsman’s inquiry into the child protection system in the Territory, we understand she was accompanied by a lawyer and refused to answer questions. Do you support your senior public servants refusing to answer the Ombudsman’s questions regarding the failed child protection system in the Territory, or is this just another example of the culture of cover-up and obstruction that plagues this government?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, my understanding is the person obtained her own legal advice; I cannot deny people natural justice. That was her choice to receive legal advice while she was attending the Ombudsman’s inquiry. She refused to answer questions on her legal advice. The department and the government did not advise her to take legal advice or not; that was her personal choice.
Anti-Discrimination Commissioner - Appointment of Mr Eddie Cubillo
Ms SCRYMGOUR to MINISTER for JUSTICE and ATTORNEY-GENERAL
Can you advise on the appointment of the new NT Anti-Discrimination Commissioner?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, it is with great pleasure I can inform the House that earlier today I announced the appointment of a new Anti-Discrimination Commissioner for the Northern Territory, Eddie Cubillo.
I am very please Eddie Cubillo has accepted the position. He brings to this position extensive experience, working within the Northern Territory government in a variety of roles in Justice and Corrections.
He was born and raised in Darwin but, as I am advised, he has also worked in Alice Springs and Tennant Creek. He is a qualified lawyer, the former Chair of the North Australian Aboriginal Justice Agency, as well as holding the position of the Aboriginal Justice Advisory Committee Chair. He has worked as a solicitor for the NT Legal Aid Commission, and also within government. He is a former Chair of ATSIC at Regional Commissioner level.
His recent experience has been in South Australia, where he worked in the Department of Premier and Cabinet, as well as for a university there. He is well rounded, well experienced, and I have every confidence in him being an appropriate and strong Anti-Discrimination Commissioner for the Northern Territory.
Protection of Motherless Child
Ms CARNEY to MINISTER for CHILDREN and FAMILIES
The abject failure of the child protection system to protect a motherless infant at the Royal Darwin Hospital was the catalyst to the establishment of the inquiry into child protection you were recently forced to extend for a second time. Can you confirm the motherless child was placed with a relative despite active notifications and/or an active investigation by the department into the suitability of that individual to care for the other siblings?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I was not forced to extend the inquiry; I extended it at the request of the panel, for the simple reason they received an enormous number of submissions which they had to analyse and read. In addition, they had a significant number of people attending their visits in different towns. I really appreciate that; it shows the interest of Territorians in the welfare of our children.
Regarding this particular case, I do not have the information. However, I am prepared to supply the information as soon as possible. As we have estimates next week, I am prepared to provide this information …
Ms Carney: You do not know? Seriously?
Mr VATSKALIS: I do not have all the information in front of me. I am prepared to provide this information as soon as possible.
Ms Carney: That is what your predecessor said.
Mr VATSKALIS: As we have estimates next week, and I do not have an opportunity to bring it to parliament, I prefer to provide this information to you directly as soon as possible.
Energy Efficiency Provisions
under the Building Act
under the Building Act
Mr WOOD to MINISTER for LANDS and PLANNING
You answered a question yesterday in parliament in relation to the compulsory requirement by your government that homes have to be built to a standard under the energy efficiency provisions. I can understand the reason behind a requirement for a house to be built to a building code which makes it safe to live in and is not a danger to others. I am not against people being encouraged to build according to energy efficient standards. I am at a loss to know how, in a democracy, I am not allowed to build a house which fits within the energy efficiency provisions. Why can’t I live in a corrugated iron building with many louvres, or a concrete bunker with little air flow? Is this a case of big brother knows best - that is, the government - and non-conforming ideas will result in being penalised $10 000 as per the Building Act?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for an incredible question. I believe that goes to the philosophy of Housing the Territory, on top of our incredible policy and plan about Housing the Territory. The clock is ticking; it is not going to give me much time.
The government’s role is about providing a framework around the building industry, and about giving that framework to the planners, the architects, to the engineers. It comes down to regulation, and regulation we are challenging. Regulation is premised on safety and suitability. We have to factor standards into the argument. I suppose like-minded people share like-minded ideas.
Member for Nelson, we probably share a generation of creative intelligence and creative energy. My father and his mates built a house out of long-neck beer bottles. The reason they did it was because they carted the beer bottles down the cliff to Era Beach and drank them. That was the material they had to work with. Then, they carted down the cement and they built their houses out of beer bottles. Let me tell you, with all my creative energy and breadth of acceptance in the community, I would be very concerned about my great neighbours in Tennant Creek building a house out of beer bottles next door to me, which means it comes down to standards, to amenity, to community expectations, and to safety.
However, member for Nelson, you represent Territorians who are not frightened of doing things differently. I am proud to say the Territory allows for that. If you want to explore great technology in building alternatives, there is the territory to do it.
One of the architects I am very interested in - I have taken an interest since coming into the portfolio especially - is Troppo Design. Troppo Design does some incredible work, and there are some great examples - not so much people taking up those opportunities in the suburbs, but going out into the wild environment in the Northern Territory and exercising that creativity, member for Nelson, that you bring to this debate. I am sorry I cannot do it justice. We must take this matter up again.
Mining Investment – Government
Attraction Strategy
Attraction Strategy
Mr GUNNER to MINISTER for PRIMARY INDUSTRY, FISHERIES and RESOURCES
Given the importance of mining to the Territory economy, could you please outline the government’s strategy in attracting investment to assist in growing the sector?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, the significant difference between our government and the previous CLP government is we open new mines; they closed mines. We approved more exploration licences; they were sitting on 700 because they did not like the native title legislation. We went out promoting the Territory; they sat in their office waiting for them to come.
The industry is significant for the Territory, with 25% of the GDP generated by the industry, and 4600 people employed by the mining industry. Our government has recognised that and has taken active measures to promote the industry, not only in Australia, but overseas. We are the first government to put $14.4m toward Bringing Forward Discovery. With this project, we provide, dollar-for-dollar, up to $100 000 for exploration companies to explore.
Around Australia we have seen a 22% drop in exploration, with South Australia going down 49%. We are now only second to Western Australia. If you look at the gross expenditure in Australia and the Northern Territory, the black line indicates Australia’s exploration, while the yellow line indicates the Northern Territory’s increase in exploration.
We have travelled widely, and have focused on China and Japan. As a result, $180m investment in the Northern Territory has been made by Japanese and Chinese companies. We have developed relationships. Last month, I travelled to China, not to organise a seminar to promote the Territory; this time the seminar was organised for us by the East China Mineral Exploration Company, which is the department of the Xianshang provincial government. We expected 60 people, more than 230 people turned up.
The opposition took about three weeks to find out about the super profits tax. Obviously, the telegram from Canberra was a bit late. When they received it, they still did not understand it, and they came up with telling how Australia is becoming a communist country by imposing this kind of tax, while China has now become a capitalist country because they got rid of the taxes.
On 3 June 2010, China Daily, the English language newspaper of the Communist Party, announced that China doubled the tax on the liquid resources in the province of Xianshang, with a view to actually expanding it all over China in the next few years. Until now, the tax in China was so minimal that none of these provinces ever received any returns from their mineral resources. Actually, the newspaper called for the central government in Beijing to take the example of Australia which imposes tax on the mining companies to boost the retirement funds for Australians.
Protection of Motherless Child -
Information Sharing Between Agencies
Ms CARNEY to MINISTER for CHILDREN and FAMILIES
Last night, the opposition brought forward a bill that would provide greater clarity in respect of information sharing between agencies and, in particular, for child protection. Government opposed the bill, continuing its preferred approach to child protection; namely obstruction, silence and secrecy. With respect to your last answer, you must have known whether there were current notifications, or an investigation in relation to or about the other children being cared for by the person with whom the motherless child was placed.
Is it not the case that had the social workers at Royal Darwin Hospital known about those notifications and/or the investigation, the outcome for that motherless child would have been different?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for Araluen for the question. It is a very important question. She is absolutely right; departments should exchange information among themselves.
The reason we opposed the legislation presented by the opposition yesterday was not because we do not agree with it, but because it was technically flawed. I said on the public record that I found it crazy when the Department of Education will not share information to the department of Health, and the department of Health will not share information with the Department of Family Services it involves the safety of children.
One of the first things I want to do is actually break down the barriers, break down the walls. I do not want any more walls, but it has to be done the proper way, and …
Ms Carney: Where is your bill?
Mr VATSKALIS: … would not provide difficulties for us, or legal difficulties. I said before, on the public record, that I am waiting for the inquiry to finish, and we have said I will adopt all the recommendations. I bet you one of the recommendations will be: break down the walls that prevent the flow of information from one department to another.
I am in a great difficulty many times - and as a lawyer – in asking for information. Unfortunately, the Territory is such a small place that with me speaking here in parliament – which is transmitted throughout the Territory - people will identify a person, children, and families, and embarrass them. I cannot do that; I am legally prohibited, and morally, I am not prepared to do it.
N’Dhala Gorge Nature Park –
Access Road Condition
Access Road Condition
Ms ANDERSON to MINISTER for TRANSPORT
The access road to N’Dhala Gorge Nature Park, a major tourist attraction in Central Australia, has had no road maintenance for the last six months. It is now tourist season, and the nearby Ross River Resort has had to rescue more than 20 vehicles that have been casualties of this road. Recently, road users have begun driving into private property to avoid the dangerous sections of this road. Again, when will this road be maintained to a proper standard?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, this year we are spending $331m on Territory roads. This is an incredible infrastructure spend. The member for Macdonnell, a member from the bush, highlights, once again, the challenges this presents. On the other side of those challenges, it presents lots of work and lots of jobs. It is about how to address that.
Once again, I have written a note here about the Ross Highway. I will add this from a local member who has also sent me correspondence about other areas, such as the Ampilatwatja Road, which we are working on at the moment.
It is good for the House, and for Territorians, to reflect on the challenges we face in disaster repairs arising from severe weather events occurring in 2009-10. There were four separate events: tropical Cyclone Laurence in December 2009; effects right across the Barkly, to Katherine, to the Top End from a low pressure system in February 2010; tropical Cyclone Paul; and this relates to preliminary estimates of total repair costs to the 2009-10 weather events across all regions, currently approximately $12.4m. That shows Territorians the extent of what we have - $12m of that on Territory roads, $400 000 of that on the national network. Flood damage to roads across Central Australia, this year, as I said, was particularly severe. They are good questions, and the work will be done.
In the meantime, if I could conclude by saying Territorians and our tourists alike need to remember to drive to the conditions. I have been ringing countrymen coming to the Territory from Burketown trying to get to Borroloola to tell them that road is still closed - that road across our vital section of gulf country, because of fast flowing rivers and displaced rocks. Central Australia has had its fair share of adverse weather. It means it is a challenge; we have to get out there, we will do the work, and please, everyone exercise caution.
Aboriginal Interpreter Service Supporting Indigenous Territorians
Ms WALKER to MINISTER for LOCAL GOVERNMENT
Can you outline the important work undertaken by the Aboriginal Interpreter Service and how this service supports Indigenous Territorians who have English as a second language?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for Nhulunbuy for her question. It is a very important day today. We had the Aboriginal Interpreter Service come to Parliament House during the lunch break to celebrate 10 years of service across the Northern Territory. In the Territory, around 75% of Indigenous Territorians speak a language other than English as their first language.
When the service first began, there were only two staff and a number of interpreters. Today, we are talking about interpreters who cover more than 100 languages across the Northern Territory, around 6000 jobs per year, and employ over 370 interpreters on a casual basis.
I would like to pay tribute especially to Colleen Rosas who heads up the Aboriginal Interpreter Service and is doing a remarkable job with our interpreters across the regions. She is not just there organising and coordinating our interpreters, but assisting them in some of the personal and emotional difficulties interpreters face, be it in the court system or the health system. When we recall the history of the Aboriginal Interpreter Service, I would have to say it took a great many years before the government of the day wanted to look at even having an Aboriginal Interpreter Service with the federal government. In fact, I also pay tribute to the then Anti-Discrimination Commissioner, Dawn Lawrie, who was a significant part of putting together the interpreter service in the push for a service across the Northern Territory, and the many other people who were a part of that.
The service is also helping government today with A Working Future policy across the 20 growth towns, and it is fantastic to see we are able to move forward with the identity of the Northern Territory, including Aboriginal languages as we go. It is a unique position compared to the states across Australia, and it is something this government can be very proud of.
Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair
Mr TOLLNER to MINISTER for BUSINESS and EMPLOYMENT referred to MINISTER for ARTS and MUSEUMS
The government has again funded the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair at the Convention Centre, which coincides with the annual National Telstra Indigenous Art Awards in August. The Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair allows community centres and individuals the opportunity to sell to individual buyers and directly to the public.
Are you aware a large number of the art sectors participating in this event are, in fact, not from the Northern Territory? Are you also aware commercial galleries are excluded from participating in the fair? What does this say about the government’s Buy Territory Made campaign, and why, when a large contingent of Australian and overseas art buyers are in Darwin, would government encourage a fire sale of Indigenous art by excluding those who value add to Indigenous art; namely, our hardworking Territory-owned and operated art galleries?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, this is only the second time I have seen the member for Fong Lim read from the script. The first time was the other night in the adjournment debate, where he did a big mea culpa, ‘I did not leak the polling’ …
Members interjecting.
Mr KNIGHT: … ‘I am not going to be the leader’. It was the first time I had ever seen him kowtow in this Assembly. It was great to see …
Mr ELFERINK: A point of order, Madam Speaker! Standing Order 113: succinct, concise and directly relevant to the question.
Madam SPEAKER: Minister, can you come to the point please?
Mr KNIGHT: Madam Speaker, this is an Arts question, it is not a Business question. I will flick to the minister for Arts.
Members interjecting.
Mr TOLLNER: Madam Speaker, I am speaking about commercially-owned art galleries being excluded from an event funded by the Northern Territory. It is directly related to business, it is directly encouraging the sale of …
Madam SPEAKER: Member for Fong Lim resume your seat.
Mr McCARTHY (Arts and Museums): Madam Speaker, I am honoured to talk about the arts. The member makes some interesting points. Let us start the story from an age-old tradition; let us not put a pencil line around Indigenous art. Let us look at how the Indigenous art community is growing, flourishing, and generating an incredible international market. They congregate in Darwin from Western Australia, South Australia, and across the border into Queensland. When I was at the Aboriginal art market last year, as part of the Darwin Festival, it was incredible to see some Victorian countrymen there, and Indigenous artists celebrate this.
For business, in conjunction with the Darwin Festival, it brings people from all over the world to purchase Indigenous art, in the jewel of the crown, Darwin, in the Northern Territory ...
Mr TOLLNER: A point of order, Madam Speaker! The question is why have commercial galleries - Territory paid and operated galleries - been excluded from the Art Fair?
Madam SPEAKER: Minister, can you come to the point.
Mr McCARTHY: The difference between galleries and the art market is galleries receive an incredible amount of coverage from people visiting Darwin for this event, not only shopping at the Aboriginal art market, also touring the galleries. Galleries are very much on track with what we are doing. I commend the Aboriginal arts industry for the solidarity they share and the work they do together. The opportunity for artists from remote areas to get their product out to an international arena is big business for the Territory. This is big business for Darwin; this is good business.
Weddell Power Station – Damage to
New Generator
New Generator
Mr ELFERINK to MINISTER for ESSENTIAL SERVICES
Recently, one of the new generators from the Weddell Power Station was returned to the United States so it could be pulled apart to ascertain what damaged it. What damaged that generator? Was it anything to do with the supply of off-specification gas and, if so, what are the cost impacts on the Northern Territory?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I believe they have run out of questions on the other side and had to come up with a question like that. The member well knows investigations are occurring in America. The generator has been sent back. A team from Power and Water went over to inspect …
Mr Elferink: That has been done. What is the result?
Mr KNIGHT: … these things. As they open it up they will be filming the dismantling work.
Mr Elferink: With the impending legal action, what is the result?
Mr KNIGHT: Member for Port Darwin, they are still conducting investigations. They are getting three samples out of the blades from the turbine - one to be used by the company, one to be used by us, and one to be put in a safe place in case there are discrepancies. That investigation is continuing. The generator was insured; we have claimed that insurance.
Mr Elferink: So, no warranty?
Mr KNIGHT: When the final investigation is resolved we will be chasing whoever caused the problem.
Federal Government Infrastructure Fund
Ms SCRYMGOUR to MINISTER for CONSTRUCTION
Can you outline how the Territory, and Territory businesses, will benefit from the Infrastructure Fund?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for her question. We should start with the Henderson government’s announced record $1.8bn spend on infrastructure in Budget 2010-2011.
The record infrastructure spend focuses on roads infrastructure, our schools, our hospitals - a record $980m in the bush. When we talk about $1.8bn in an infrastructure spend, we are talking about up to 3600 jobs. The link to infrastructure is important, and the link to infrastructure in the Territory is extremely important.
This is much money in Territory hands; however, we face significant challenges in infrastructure. We heard in the House today questions on important roads issues throughout the electorates. This is a big Territory, and this is a challenging space.
That is why we welcome the Rudd government’s proposal to set up a $6bn Infrastructure Fund, with a weighting to the resources states of Western Australia, Queensland and the Northern Territory. The Treasurer’s office confirmed this morning this fund will be weighted to resource jurisdictions, and will be based on mining production - and we are talking the Northern Territory. As a result, we can expect to receive considerably more than we would under normal infrastructure funding arrangements. This is good news for our ports, roads, and rail. This is good news for economic development in the states. This is good news for the Territory’s mining sector and industries to grow. This is fantastic news for jobs in the Northern Territory.
I am advised this fund is forecast to start at $700m in 2012-13, and grow to provide more than $6bn over the next decade. That is infrastructure funding for the Territory. When we link infrastructure to jobs, we have an equation to grow the Territory. However, the question now is - it is a healthy debate – what is the Country Liberal Party plan to fund the infrastructure developments we need? It would be good to get that into the debate, because this side of the House, and the Henderson government, support the Rudd government’s move, and welcomes the additional infrastructure spending it will bring to the Northern Territory.
Larrakeyah Barracks – Defence
Housing Relocations
Housing Relocations
Mr WOOD to MINISTER for LANDS and PLANNING
Can you update on any discussions you have had with the Defence Housing Association regarding the relocation of Larrakeyah Barracks houses instead of demolishing them?
I would like to table a photo of a house being relocated from Nurses Way, Larrakeyah Barracks, going through the front gates of the barracks in 2008 – this was by a Katherine house shifting company. At the time, Mr Howman, the then Chief Operating Officer, said the base was not closed for the process and security was not compromised. Could you give us an update on your talks with DHA?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for his question, and the member’s interest in the houses at Larrakeyah. As I said in the House earlier this week, I have not had my briefing yet; I am looking forward to the briefing from the Defence Housing Association. I am keen to talk to them, and keen to follow up after the member for Nelson, who did have his briefing and has a great passion for the opportunity.
My briefing, so far - I asked about the quality and history of the houses, and the logistics around moving these houses. I put myself in a frame to understand the scope of what we are dealing with here. I know you are passionate about it. I am very interested to be briefed by the Australian Defence Housing Association. We do much work with them in the Territory. We will see where those discussions lie. I am very interested to hear their perspective as, remember, it is their asset; it is on their land. It is an opportunity for me to explore a very interesting issue in the portfolio.
Bulk Ship Loading Conveyor Belt - Construction
Mr GILES to MINISTER for CONSTRUCTION
In 2008, your government announced it would spend $35m constructing an overland conveyor belt to improve bulk ship loading operations, and environmental and traffic safety at East Arm Wharf. Two years on, there is no sign of a conveyor. Can you tell the Assembly why it has taken so long for the conveyor to be built? Can you pinpoint exactly when work on the conveyor will begin?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, this is a good question to get the story out so we are all on the same page. Let us talk about the new conveyor for the export of iron ore and manganese at East Arm. I believe it starts with the opposition needing a briefing. I am pleased to say the member for Braitling is going there tomorrow ...
Mr Giles: I am asking for one now.
Mr McCARTHY: That is great. His question will mean more to him when he has physically experienced the infrastructure …
Mr GILES: A point of order, Madam Speaker! To advise the junior minister, I have been there several times for briefings, I do have another one tomorrow.
Madam SPEAKER: Member for Braitling, that is not a point of order. Minister, you have the call.
Mr McCARTHY: Thank you, Madam Speaker, I welcome the additional title of junior minister; name calling does not faze me. People who want to use that sort of approach, well, every dog has his day, people in glass houses should not throw stones - go for your life.
Members interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Order!
Mr McCARTHY: Let us talk about …
Members interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Order! Member for Drysdale!
Members interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Order!
Mr McCARTHY: I am running out of time, Madam Speaker - let us cut to the chase.
The member for Braitling advised the House he has been to the port. He would then know the capacity of the port, and the three major products we are dealing with and what we need. Please ask about the master plan, because when we talk about phosphate coming online, when we talk about increased bulk commodities, which will be a big future for the Northern Territory, we need to ensure we get this system right.
We have been exploring new customers. We have customers coming from interstate and we expect many more. We are looking at world’s best practice in conveyor systems. We are looking at dust suppression. We are looking at the technology …
Mr GILES: A point of order, Madam Speaker! It has been two years since the conveyor belt was announced. I asked the minister why it has taken so long …
Madam SPEAKER: Member for Braitling, that is not a point of order.
Mr GILES: … and when will it be built?
Madam SPEAKER: Member for Braitling, that is not a point of order. You are on a warning.
Mr GILES: A point of order, Madam Speaker! In regard to relevance, I asked a specific question and I would like it answered.
Madam SPEAKER: Member for Braitling, resume your seat. Minister, you have the call.
Mr McCARTHY: Thank you, Madam Speaker. I am just about out of time, however, it was nice to see the member for Braitling address this House without any name calling. You are going to learn, young fellow, you are going to learn.
Palmerston – Land Release
Ms WALKER to MINISTER for LANDS and PLANNING
Last week, you announced another land release to provide over 500 new homes for Territorians. Can you please outline when this new land release in Palmerston will be under way?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to talk about the Henderson government continually fast-tracking land release in Palmerston, the city of choice for Territorians. Releasing more land for residential development is a key priority for the Territory government to help manage the Territory’s growth ...
Mr Tollner interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Order! Order! Member for Fong Lim!
Mr McCARTHY: Last week, I was at Johnston Stage 1 looking at the incredible amount of work getting out 200 lots. While I was there, I called for expressions of interest from developers to build 284 residential lots that will provide up to 583 homes for Territory families at Johnston Stage 2.
Like the port, the opposition needs to get out and kick the dirt and understand the scope of what it means to conduct a land release program.
The subdivision of Johnston Stage 2 is planned not only for residential lots, but also a neighbourhood centre, a seniors village, local shops, and land for community development. It is a new way forward in the city of choice for Territorians. It is another step in the right direction in terms of land release, five times faster than ever before.
In relation to the logistics of that expression of interest, applicants have until July 2010 to be short-listed before they will be invited to submit a tender for development rights. I find this interesting and exciting, and I am glad you guys do as well. A successful tenderer will be expected to release lots off the plan within three months of being granted the development lease. I expect land release in the subdivision at Johnston Stage 2 will commence next Dry Season. Palmerston is the housing choice for Territory families, and we are continuing to invest there. I have more great announcements coming up regarding Zuccoli, and I am sure Territorians will celebrate, even if those …
Members interjecting.
A member: When we get some titles we might be excited.
Madam SPEAKER: Order! Honourable members, before I call the member for Port Darwin, I will remind you of Standing Order 51:
- No Member may converse aloud or make any noise or disturbance, which in the opinion of the Speaker is designed to interrupt or has the effect of interrupting a Member speaking.
Honourable members, there have certainly been many interjections.
Mining Super Profits Tax –
Resolution of the Assembly
Resolution of the Assembly
Mr ELFERINK to MADAM SPEAKER
Yesterday, in this House, the majority of members, and notably including the member for Nelson, passed a resolution that this House does not support the mining super profits tax. The government has rejected the will of the majority of members of this House and will continue to support it. Will you, as Speaker, now write to the federal parliament informing it of the will of the majority members of this House?
Members interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Order!
ANSWER
Thank you, member for Port Darwin, for your question. In the past, there have been motions which have included the direction that, if it was passed, the item would go to the federal parliament, to the federal Speaker, to the federal President, the Prime Minister and Leader of the Opposition. In this case, the motion did not include that request and, unless there is a further motion, I will not be sending it on.
Members interjecting.
Mr ELFERINK: So, you are not going to represent the will of this House, Madam Speaker?
Madam SPEAKER: The motion did not include the request for me to do so.
Members interjecting.
Madam SPEAKER: Order! Member for Fannie Bay!
Mr Tollner: Fascists! Fascists!
Madam SPEAKER: Member for Fong Lim, I ask you to withdraw that comment.
Members interjecting.
Mr Tollner: Madam Speaker, I withdraw it.
Madam SPEAKER: Thank you very much. Resume your seat.
Palmerston - Sports Infrastructure
Mr GUNNER to MINISTER for SPORT and RECREATION
Can you outline how the Henderson government is investing in Palmerston’s future through critical sport infrastructure?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, I thank the member for Fannie Bay for his question. It was an absolute pleasure to be there recently with the Chief Minister, together with some very important people from the Palmerston area, particularly the Palmerston sporting groups.
The Henderson government is delivering on a key election commitment to the people in Palmerston in what can only be described as a new era in sport for the people of Palmerston. This commitment will make Palmerston an even better place to raise a family by rolling out critical social infrastructure in the way of sporting facilities.
The five sports to receive major upgrades under this election commitment are the Palmerston Magpies, the AFL team on their home ground; tennis and netball courts; the Palmerston Football Club, or soccer facilities at Gray Oval; and a new home for the Palmerston Raiders Rugby League Club.
This government is committed to giving the people of Palmerston access to first-class facilities, and this announcement creates a new sporting hub to allow more families to enjoy the great Territory lifestyle.
The opposition has tried to criticise a blowout in cost, and it is not a blowout at all. We knew what we wanted to provide, a major sporting facility upgrade in Palmerston. We had initial estimates to provide this at one location. Progressive and extensive consultations with the codes and the Palmerston City Council changed the shape of how we needed to succeed, and changed the cost.
The only people who seem to be unhappy are the members for Drysdale and Brennan, while the member for Blain has not even bothered to comment. This Henderson government is proud to deliver on its key election commitments and provide a new era in sport for the people in Palmerston.
Dr BURNS (Leader of Government Business): Madam Speaker, I ask that further questions be placed on the Written Question Paper.
Last updated: 09 Aug 2016