Mr AH KIT - 1998-08-13
Speculation is rife that the regional offices of the Office of Aboriginal Development in Tennant Creek and Katherine will be either cut back or closed down. Will the minister state categorically that there will be no cutbacks?
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, the Office for Aboriginal Development is currently under review. The Treasurer announced, during his budget, the Planning for Growth review. Obviously, this review will affect all agencies.
The member for Arnhem asks whether there will be any staff cutbacks. I cannot give a categoric ‘no’. I cannot predetermine the outcomes of that process. However, I am able to say that I am keen to refocus the Office of Aboriginal Development on something more specific. I know the member mentioned this in his speech in the adjournment debate last night.
It is about economic development. I intend to make a major statement in the House at some time in the near future to allow members on the other side the opportunity to debate that.
As for Katherine and Tennant Creek, we will have to await the outcome of the review.
ANSWER
Madam Speaker, the Office for Aboriginal Development is currently under review. The Treasurer announced, during his budget, the Planning for Growth review. Obviously, this review will affect all agencies.
The member for Arnhem asks whether there will be any staff cutbacks. I cannot give a categoric ‘no’. I cannot predetermine the outcomes of that process. However, I am able to say that I am keen to refocus the Office of Aboriginal Development on something more specific. I know the member mentioned this in his speech in the adjournment debate last night.
It is about economic development. I intend to make a major statement in the House at some time in the near future to allow members on the other side the opportunity to debate that.
As for Katherine and Tennant Creek, we will have to await the outcome of the review.
Last updated: 09 Aug 2016