2007-10-18
Madam Speaker Aagaard took the Chair at 10 am.
Ms McCARTHY (Arnhem)(by leave): Madam Speaker, I present a petition not conforming with standing orders from 74 petitioners relating to the employment of the Principal at Milyakburra School. I move that the petition be read.
Motion agreed to; petition read:
Ms MARTIN (Chief Minister): Madam Speaker, this is the last month of His Honour Ted Egan’s tenure as the Territory’s Administrator. His official duties end on 31 October. It hardly seems possible that four years have passed since the Governor-General appointed him as the 18th Administrator of the Territory.
Ted has undertaken his duties with grace, dignity and humour, and leaves the office as one of our most popular and well-respected Administrators. Ted is a Territorian to his boot straps and has a down-to-earth and easy-going approach to the position.
When he was appointed, there was a fair bit of head scratching in the Top End. Of course, people knew Ted Egan as the performer, but few realised the experience and knowledge that this man from Alice Springs would bring with him to the position of Administrator. He soon won them over and, since that time, Territorians have taken him and Nerys to their hearts. Ted’s profound understanding of issues relating to the land, culture and heritage of all those living in the Territory has been the cornerstone of his time in office.
From Borroloola to Gunbalanya, from Alice to Kalkarindji, he has shared stories and more than a few laughs with countless people. In fact, Ted’s ability to reach out to people through his easy-going personality, his music and his love of sport makes him one of the Territory’s most accessible and loved public figures.
I know the things that Ted has enjoyed during his time as Administrator. He loves visiting our schools as well as receiving school visits to Government House. The annual Kids’ Fun Days for children with special needs held in the grounds of Government House were very special to him. He was Patron of around 90 organisations, and he was passionate about each and every one of them, and still is.
A particular highlight for him was in 2005 when the Tiwi Islands celebrated the 300th anniversary of Tiwi-European contact. Ted has a long association with the Tiwis and he shared this celebration with Dr Hans Sondal, the Dutch Ambassador.
Madam Speaker, another memorable occasion happened this year. He returned to north-east Arnhem Land to meet with some of his old friends from the days when he was a Patrol Officer in the early 1950s. It included a visit to the Laynhapuy Homelands, and to the memorial commemorating the 1910 massacre at Gangan. He also held meetings with Aboriginal health workers and the Mission Australia Special Care Centre in Nhulunbuy, visited the high school, and attended the official opening of the Roy Marika Lookout in the centre of the township. He also travelled to Gunyapingnya, Garrthalala and Yilpara and attended the official opening of the Garrangali Arts Centre. It was a truly memorable trip, renewing old acquaintances and making many new friends.
Another legacy of Ted’s time as Administrator is the annual Administrator’s Pleasure Concert, which is staged at the Darwin Entertainment Centre. It sums up Ted. It is a concept that combines entertainment and compassion, an event that allows young and older local talent to showcase their talents whilst supporting local charities. It has raised more than $50 000 over the years.
Ted’s partner, Nerys Evans, must also be acknowledged. Nerys’ personal experience has proved invaluable in every aspect and theirs has been a partnership in the truest sense of the word. She has sustained Ted throughout his term in office. Nerys has shared Ted’s passion for the Territory and supported her own patronages with enthusiasm. She has also shared her organisational and entertainment skills and talents, and has ably led the Government House Foundation as President for four years. Nerys’ discerning sense of taste encouraged the foundation to commission some magnificent artworks.
Ted and Nerys are both passionate about the history, present status and most importantly the future of Government House. They have held Open Days twice a year in the Dry Season, with almost 13 000 people from the Territory, interstate and overseas visiting their home.
Madam Speaker, on behalf of all Territorians from all corners of our Territory, I thank Ted and Nerys for all they have achieved over the past four years, and say to them as they move to the next stage of their life’s work, and in part return to their home in Alice Springs, everyone thanks them and wishes them well.
Members: Hear, hear!
Ms CARNEY (Opposition Leader): Madam Speaker, the opposition joins with the Chief Minister to wish Ted and Nerys the very best. We have had what can only be described as a very interesting line of Administrators in the Territory. The Territory is different from everywhere else, and we should celebrate those differences.
Curiously, some people have suggested that you cannot have a Chief Minister in the Northern Territory from Alice Springs. The same people might like to reflect on whether it is possible to have an Administrator from Alice Springs, Ted and Nerys being from Alice Springs.
As an Alice Springs person, I look forward to seeing them around town more often. I look forward to Nerys, as I mentioned to her the other day, rejoining our lunch group which has been going for 12 or 13 years and of which she was a member before they moved to Darwin. I thank them for the work they have done. The opposition joins with the Chief Minister and all the people of the Northern Territory in wishing them the very best for their future.
Mr WOOD (Nelson): Madam Speaker, I also join with the government and the Opposition Leader in their good wishes to the Administrator and his wife Nerys. From a personal perspective, I found Ted a great mentor. Ted’s experience, especially music and theatre, was something I enjoyed. He not only gave advice, he would join in and enjoy the whole atmosphere of whatever you were doing. From that perspective, personally, he was of great assistance to me.
He is a wise man. I have been to many of the talks he has given at various openings around the place, and people sit in silence and listen to a man who was willing to speak up even as Administrator. He was even willing to speak up against the government. I recently went to a dinner for parliamentary Environment and Public Works Committee people from all over Australia at Pee Wees. He discussed some of the issues related to land rights around the Darwin area, about fishing permits, and he was willing to put his point of view. In fact, he said he was going to write a book, and I presume some of those things will come into that book.
He is a man who has been good for the Territory because he has raised issues that might be difficult and has put them up for debate, which is important. At the same time, he is very personable and people love to hear him. Interstate people go to dinners and they applaud him. He had a standing ovation. When he sang The Drover’s Boy at the dinner, people loved it. He is a man not just for Territorians; he is a man for Australia.
Mr NATT (Mines and Energy): Madam Speaker, I inform the Assembly of the progress of my Department of Primary Industry, Fisheries and Mines’ China Strategy.
Members will be aware that part of our response to the commodities boom has been a new $12m exploration and investment attraction program over the next four years called Bringing Forward Discovery. Part of this program is a China Strategy geared specifically to making companies in China more aware of the potential of the Northern Territory, and encouraging partnerships and other business arrangements with mining and exploration companies already committed to working here.
Madam Speaker, you will recall that last November I took a delegation of department experts and industry representatives to China to attend China Mining, Asia’s premier mining conference, and to hold a series of meetings with interested Chinese companies.
There was a follow-up visit by my departmental technical experts and industry representatives to cement relationships formed by the earlier delegation. Results of those visits have been spectacular. Before our initial visit, there was virtually no recognition of the Northern Territory within China. Most companies had never heard of us, and had no idea where we were, much less that we were an accessible and well resourced potential business partner.
Now the Territory is most definitely on the Chinese radar. Since our initial visit, delegations from 14 Chinese organisations have visited the Territory, with several making multiple visits. Several exploration licences have been submitted by Chinese companies. SinoSteel has entered into a sponsorship arrangement with the Darwin Symphony Orchestra and cooperation arrangements have been drafted with the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Metals and Minerals and the Chinese Mining Association. Chinese investment in the Territory minerals sector will increase exploration expenditure, increase the potential for mineral discoveries and support the development of the Territory’s mining industry.
Most of the Chinese companies operating overseas or seeking to invest overseas are state-owned enterprises. In other words, they are controlled by the central government. This means that it is appropriate and necessary for the Northern Territory government to be involved in developing relationships and networks which are a bridge for industry to make and develop relationships. It is this government-to-government link that is facilitating the results that the Territory is enjoying, and why the delegation to China in November of this year is so important.
This year’s program includes attending three events: the Australia China Mining Seminar; the China Mining 2000 Expo; and a seminar facilitated by the China Mining Association and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Metals and Minerals. As well as attending those three major events, the delegation will meet with potential Chinese investors, hold a media conference for selected Chinese media and attend two networking dinners.
To say the pace of the visit will be hectic is an understatement, however, the relationships we have begun with Chinese companies and associations must be nurtured and new ones developed, and the best way for that to happen is face-to-face. The Territory is the only jurisdiction in Australia with a dedicated, targeted China strategy, and this gives us a potential advantage on the international stage. It is up to the next delegation to ensure we maintain and build on this competitive edge.
It is not only the Territory’s minerals and energy sectors which will benefit from this trip. We are taking the opportunity on our way over to stop for 24 hours in Indonesia. This flying visit will see me meeting senior industry officials to discuss primary industry issues, especially ways to increase live cattle shipments from the Territory.
We all know there is a commodities boom under way, but there are also many countries and other states jockeying for a share of the market. The Territory has been proactive in its approach to securing that and more Chinese investment and involvement and it is vital that we continue this approach to ensure that maximum benefits flow to the Territory’s economy and to Territorians.
Mrs MILLER (Katherine): Madam Speaker, I thank the minister for his report. The opposition supports delegations to promote the Northern Territory overseas. The Bringing Forward Discovery promotion of the Northern Territory’s minerals industry is a very important one. I agree that face-to-face discussions are the best way of forming and developing relationships. It is pleasing to see that you are also going to be attending to some Primary Industry and Fisheries issues when you lead this delegation.
I did not quite hear who was going on the delegation. Maybe in your response, you will be able to say who will comprise the delegation from both sectors. We support what the Territory government is trying to do to develop the minerals industry in China, which is a new and developing market.
Mr WOOD (Nelson): Madam Speaker, I also thank the minister for his report. As we know, the Chinese are beginning to take interest in the Northern Territory through the mines at Batchelor. In relation to changes of the three mines policy of the federal Labor Party and the Chief Minister’s support for that change, will you be having discussions about expanding exports of uranium into China? China is a very energy-hungry country. They have a nuclear power program and are looking for imports of uranium. Will our government be looking at developing relationships with Chinese companies that may be interested in developing uranium mines in the Northern Territory and exporting it?
Regardless of what we might think about nuclear power plants, China is one place in the world which is expanding its nuclear power production. Federal Labor and Northern Territory Labor have agreed to change the three mine policy. I would have thought it makes plain good sense to at least raise that matter with the Chinese government. We have large sources of uranium. I have forgotten how many people are now exploring for uranium in the Northern Territory. Would the minister be able to say whether those discussions will be on the agenda?
Mr NATT (Mines and Energy): Madam Speaker, I thank both members for their support. For the member for Katherine, we are currently working with industry partners. At this stage, we have two industry partners coming with us. I cannot confirm who they are at the moment, but we are working through those processes. Members from my Mines department who have expertise on the Northern Territory will be accompanying us.
Member for Nelson, we will be promoting anything that is in the ground in the Territory which the Chinese are interested in that respect. It will not just be a trip to sell uranium; it will be a trip to sell everything and try to set up valuable relationships for industry in the Northern Territory.
I hope our efforts in China will not be undermined by concerns the Chinese might have about the perceived links we may have with Taiwan. I will be expressing our deep desire that we maintain our links with China. I am fearful about perceptions the Chinese may have about our links with the Taiwanese government, but I will be putting those to bed and ensuring that our investment strategies do move ahead.
Mr McADAM (Corporate and Information Services): Madam Speaker, I report to the House on the NT Literary Awards and the Chief Minister’s NT History Book Awards.
I represented the Chief Minister at the awards night on Friday, 5 October. The Literary Awards attracted 254 entries across five categories. The 2007 winners of the those categories of literary awards are as follows: Kath Manzie Youth Literary Award - Oceana Pastor-Elsegood, Yellow Dress Girl; Charles Darwin University Essay Award - Nigel Turvey, On Natural Selection and the Characteristic Qualities of the Greater Number of Sailors; the Dymocks Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Writers Award - Ellen Peacock, A Question of Identity; Dymocks Arafura Short Story Award - Bruce Hocking, Shrink; and Dymocks Red Earth Poetry Award - Bill Coburn, Kadaitcha.
It is important to recognise the sponsors: Dymocks, the Manzie family and Charles Darwin University. In attendance were Neville James and George Manolas from Dymocks, Daryl and Maureen Manzie, and Professor Helen Garnett, all of whom assisted with presenting awards.
The Chief Minister’s Northern Territory History Book Award is for a book published during 2006 that deals with our history. Nine entries of a very high standard were received this year, some entries coming from interstate. There were three finalists for the History Book Award.
First was Darby: One Hundred Years of Life in a Changing Culture by Liam Campbell and published by ABC Books. Darby is the biography of an indigenous elder from Yuendumu, Darby Jampijinpa Ross. Darby lived to be 100 years old and the book tells, through his eyes, the extraordinary history of the Warlpiri people’s experiences during that time. Darby’s story is a story of Central Australia and the 20th century struggles and relationships between mainstream and Aboriginal Australians, the arrival of explorers and miners, the founding of missions and welfare settlements, and the progress made with indigenous land rights. A further focus of the book was Darby’s wish to record the Dreaming of his people before he died to ensure his stories will continue to be passed down to future generations.
The second finalist was Through Chinese Eyes: The Chinese Experience in the Northern Territory 1874-2004 by Glenice Yee, which is self-published. As the subtitle indicates, this book covers the Chinese experience in the Territory from 1874 to 2004. I guess people would ask: ‘Why 1874?’ It was at that time that the first 186 Coolie labourers from Singapore arrived in Palmerston. They came on two-year contracts to undertake public works under the South Australian administration of the time. Glenice Yee explores Chinese settlement across the Territory, and the book includes biographies of a range of Chinese families, including a chapter on Chinese-Aboriginal families, one of the first times this aspect of our social history has been so thoroughly documented.
The winner of the award was Empty North: The Japanese Presence and Australian Reactions 1860s to 1942 by Dr Pam Oliver and published by Charles Darwin University Press. Empty North looks at the positive nature of Japanese immigration to the north of Australia from the 1860s together with the fear many Australians developed about the Japanese and white Australia after 1901. Dr Oliver’s book also examines the context of Australia’s relationships with Japan and the Japanese expansion into South-East Asia and the Pacific region. The book examines a number of key issues. For example:
what part did Japanese people play in the positive development of the Northern Territory?;
The History Book Award finalists and the respective themes of their literature reflect the Territory’s rich multicultural diversity. I was pleased to see such a range of youth and experience in our authors, as well as them being representative of their cultural diversity.
Madam Speaker, I thank those who participated in this year’s award. I am sure all members will join me in congratulating the finalists, all entrants, and all involved in the NT Literary Awards and the Chief Minister’s Northern Territory History Book Awards.
Ms CARNEY (Opposition Leader): Madam Speaker, the minister’s report was very interesting. The opposition enthusiastically joins with you in congratulating everyone involved.
What emerged from your report, minister, were a couple of fundamentals. What a fascinating place the Northern Territory is now, has been, and will be in the future. What a wonderful depth of talent we have. How important it is, perhaps most fundamentally of all, for each and every one of us in this place to strive to ensure that kids of the Territory go to school so that they can read and write, and strive to be participants in awards of this nature. Well done, minister. We thank the government for their efforts, and congratulate everyone involved.
Mr McADAM (Corporate and Information Services): Madam Speaker, I appreciate the comments made by the Leader of the Opposition. As she suggests, we do have a very rich, culturally diversified community. I was impressed by the large number of young people who were there. During the course of the awards, I could tell that they were truly inspired by the experiences of those who took up the challenge to record the history of the Northern Territory.
I say to all our young people, indigenous and non-indigenous: take up the challenge, be inspired by those who have gone before them and ensure that we are always in a position to record what occurs in the Northern Territory because we are a very special place. I was very inspired by the young people there on that occasion.
Reports noted pursuant to standing orders.
Mr HENDERSON (Employment, Education and Training): Madam Speaker, I move that so much of standing orders be suspended as would prevent two bills entitled Workplace Health and Safety Bill (Serial 123) and Law Reform (Work Health) Amendment Bill (Serial 124):
(a) being presented and read a first time together and one motion being put in regard to respectively the second readings, the committee’s report stage and the third readings of the Bill together; and
Motion agreed to.
Bills presented and read a first time.
Mr HENDERSON (Employment, Education and Training): Madam Speaker, I move that the bills be now read a second time.
The purpose of these bills is to provide a more modern, appropriate legislative framework for the regulation of Occupational Health and Safety in the Northern Territory. By improving the regulatory framework, the government seeks to ensure Territorians have safer working environments through reduced rates of injury and disease.
There are more Territorians in the workforce than ever before in an ever expanding range of jobs. In 1987, when the existing Work Health Act was drafted, there were 71 600 people employed in the Northern Territory. Today, there are over 107 800 people at work in the Territory. We have the highest forecast job growth in Australia over the next five years. Attracting and keeping the right staff is a key issue for Territory businesses and a safe working environment is central to attracting and retaining workers. We need to keep these people at work and working safely.
Safer workplaces make good economic sense as well. Workers Compensation premiums cost Territory businesses $82m last year. Other costs include production disturbance costs, costs to the economy from lost human capital, and medical and administrative costs.
The costs of workplace incidents cannot be measured in dollars alone. Last year, four Territorians were tragically killed at work, and thousands were injured. The Northern Territory government considers these costs unacceptable, and for this reason commissioned the first comprehensive independent review of the Work Health Act in 20 years.
This review was conducted in the context of a decision by government in 2006 to amalgamate all safety regulatory activities into one agency. The review was undertaken by a company, Shaw Idea, which led a consortium of consultants who, together, had extensive experience in and knowledge of the occupational health and safety or OHS regulatory system.
Over time, stakeholders have represented to government various problems with the existing regulatory regime, including confusion over duties and responsibilities, unsatisfactory enforcement powers and lack of effective engagement and consultation mechanisms. The consultants were not asked to look at specific problems with the legislation. They were asked to focus on identifying features that will deliver the most effective outcomes for the future.
The brief was to review the existing Northern Territory OHS regulatory regime with an improvement focus, ensuring that proposed legislative changes: (a) reflect contemporary Australian practice; (b) adopt standards that are clear and accessible so that all parties know what they are expected to comply with; (c) take into account existing national commitment, for example, the National OHS Strategy and the National Mine Safety Framework; and (d) are suitable for all industries, including those identified as hazardous industries.
Earlier this year, I invited peak associations with a particular interest in OHS to be part of an industry-based OHS reference group. This group met with the consultants and provided valuable input into the review process. During the review’s consultation process, which culminated in a full-day future inquiry workshop, stakeholders agreed on three principles.
First, there was high level agreement by all stakeholders that everyone has an interest in and a responsibility for creating and maintaining safe work environments. Second, making workplaces safer can only be achieved through the cooperation of all stakeholders, including employers and workers. Finally, stakeholders agreed that government can best support safer workplaces by ensuring the Work Health Authority operates independently, reports directly to the responsible minister, and that its administrative arm, NT WorkSafe, is appropriately resourced.
The Shaw Review made a range of recommendations, most of which identified gaps between current Australian practice and the legislative framework in place in the Northern Territory. The final report of the Shaw Review was made available to the industry-based OHS Reference Group, stakeholders who furnished written submissions and was posted to the NT WorkSafe website in August this year.
A number of written submissions were received from stakeholders as a result of this ongoing consultation process. It is fair to say that the main areas canvassed in the various submissions focused on the consultation processes between employers and employees, particularly with regard to health and safety representatives and authorised union OHS representatives.
In drafting this legislation, government has taken into account the various positions of stakeholders on these issues and has ensured the appropriate checks and balances are in place to address the expressed concerns. I will go into further detail later as I discuss each part of the bills in more detail.
The Northern Territory government is committed to a range of policy decisions ensuring that Territorians are provided with safer working environments with the primary objective being a reduction in workplace injuries leading to increased productivity. These policy decisions are reflected in both bills and associated regulations.
The Workplace Health and Safety Bill replaces the existing Part IV, Occupational Health and Safety, of the Work Health Act. Its purpose is to provide a comprehensive occupational health and safety legislative framework covering all workplaces in the Northern Territory. It reflects modern workplace arrangements and is contemporary occupational health and safety legislation.
The Law Reform (Work Health) Amendment Bill deals with consequential amendments to the Mining Management Act, the Petroleum Act, Dangerous Goods Act and other affected legislation. The Law Reform (Work Health) Bill amends the title of the current Work Health Act to the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act to accurately reflect the purposes of that act.
It is evident that the focus of these two items of legislation is different, yet they have a high degree of inter-relationship. One focuses on prevention of workplace injury and the other focuses on rehabilitation, return to work and compensation for those who have suffered injuries. The synergies and the potential for conflict mean the two regulatory frameworks are best dealt with by a single authority.
Before looking to the detail in the bills, I will reflect on the Northern Territory government’s commitment to a revamped NT WorkSafe. The Working Safer package, which includes $2.3m in additional funding over three years, is in response to stakeholders’ concerns about the level of resourcing and the autonomy of the Work Health Authority. The funding will provide better support to business and workers through improved information and advisory services, more highly skilled and mobile Workplace Safety Officers, and stronger leadership in OHS for the Northern Territory. NT WorkSafe will have greater autonomy with the appointment of a new Executive Director reporting directly to the responsible minister.
I now turn to some of the details of the bill. Part 1 deals with preliminary matters, including a new Objects clause and the definition of key terms. The inclusion of an Objects clause spells out what this statute aspires to achieve. In particular, the Objects clause seeks to achieve the highest possible standards of OHS through the elimination of risk, provision of safe workplaces, cooperation between employers and employees, and raising awareness of OHS issues. The Objects are important as they provide guidance to decision-makers at a time when the courts increasingly adopt a purposive approach to statutory interpretation.
One of the recommendations put to government was to include in the definition of ‘occupational health’ an explicit recognition of psychosocial issues. Stakeholders have differing views on this recommendation. Whilst government recognises the changing nature of work and work hazards, it is not clear that an explicit reference to psychosocial issues is required. While some jurisdictions may be moving in this direction, it is not currently contemporary practice. There remains some uncertainty about the nature and scope of the hazards that might fall within this area. For example, there is debate about stress and fatigue, and what is good stress, stimulating work with little risk, and bad stress through excessive demands leading to harm. Similarly, the lines drawn around the overlap of work stress and rest-of-life stress are still contentious. As a consequence, government has deferred this recommendation in order for NT WorkSafe to undertake further analysis.
Several of the recommendations put to government related to the definition of ‘practicable’. The definition in the current Work Health Act of ‘practicable’ in effect means ‘reasonably practicable’, so in the interests of clarity, comprehension and consistency, the words ‘reasonably practicable’ now replace ‘practicable’ in all relevant sections of the new act, consistent with contemporary practice.
Employment arrangements in the Northern Territory today are very different from those in place 20 years ago when the current act was drafted. For this reason, the Workplace Health and Safety Bill has been drafted to be very broad, covering all workplaces, and protecting not just those who fall within the technical legal definition of ‘worker’, but also all those who could be adversely affected by activities at the workplace, including visitors and members of the public.
The bill strengthens the coverage of employment arrangements by including specifically contract workers, labour hire workers and volunteers. Again, this is in line with contemporary OHS legislation.
Part 2 sets out some matters relating to the administration of the act and allows for the continuation of the authority. Much of this part of the bill is drawn from the current Work Health Act. However, I draw to the attention of honourable members the following new provisions. As indicated earlier, in response to stakeholder views, government has increased the management capacity of NT WorkSafe through the appointment of an Executive Director. The Work Health Authority is constituted of the Executive Director who will report directly to the responsible minister. However, the Executive Director will maintain conventional reporting for specific requirements under the Financial Management Act and the Public Sector Employment and Management Act to the Chief Executive of the Department of Employment, Education and Training.
The current act provides the power for the authority to conduct inquiries and to examine witnesses. However, there is a lack of clarity relating to the conduct of such examinations, and the bill sets the parameters in which the authority can operate in this area.
The authority has the power to appoint officers to administer the act. The bill clarifies the functions of a Workplace Safety Officer with regard to authorised investigations. Recognising the employer’s and employee’s need for practical and constructive advice in fulfilling their OHS obligations, the bill explicitly identifies the advisory role of the Workplace Safety Officer.
The current Work Health Advisory Council has a dual role in relation to workers compensation and occupational health and safety. In practice, the main business of the current council focuses around the workers compensation elements of the act. Under the Law Reform (Work Health) Amendment Bill, the functions and membership of the current Work Health Advisory Council will be arranged to monitor workers’ rehabilitation and compensation matters only.
Part 3 of the Workplace Health and Safety Bill establishes a new Workplace Health and Safety Advisory Council consisting of 10 members representing employers, workers and the Executive Director in a tripartite advisory body reporting to the minister on matters relating to OHS. In recognising that some industries might be more intrinsically hazardous or more specialised than others, the bill provides for the establishment of subcommittees to assist the council with its functions. For example, a mining subcommittee may be formed to provide advice about mine-specific safety issues in the context of the Territory arising from the National Mine Safety framework. Subcommittees can co-opt members from outside the council.
I turn now to some of the most significant and important improvements in the bill dealing with consultation, participation and worker representation under Part 4.
Underpinning all Australian OHS statutes is the philosophy that greater consultation between workers and employers makes for more effective OHS at the workplace. All the contemporary research shows that when employees have input before decisions are made about OHS matters, workplaces have better health and safety outcomes. Whilst the current act provides for consultation with the workforce, in some fundamental aspects it falls well short of contemporary Australian practice. Part 4 establishes a duty on employers to consult with workers to enable them to contribute to the making of decisions affecting their health and safety at work. It provides guidance on how and when to consult, including: on risk identification and control; when changes to procedures, plant or materials might impact on OHS; and when deciding on the adequacy of facilities for OHS of workers. Quite rightly, the bill balances this against the reciprocal obligation of workers in regard to consultation. Whilst the final decision on OHS practice will always reside with the employer as the duty holder, the intention is that workers will be involved in the decision-making process, taking into account their views.
The intent of this part of the bill is to maximise opportunities for employers and employees to enter into dialogue before making decisions regarding OHS in the workplace. It is a proactive focus that allows employers, with the help of employees, to self-regulate and prevent accidents and injuries before they happen. The primary point of OHS consultation provided for in the bill is the election of Health and Safety Representatives by and from the workers in a work group. HSRs are the employees’ representative for OHS issues in the workplace and as such, HSRs have the important role of increasing participation and constructive discussion about occupational health and safety. Employees can be best placed to know about specific risks and hazards in a workplace, and the benefit of having trained HSRs is that they can listen to concerns and present them to the employer or management, making for better decisions.
Either an employer or an employee can initiate the election of an HSR. In this regard, it is important to note that the scheme is not mandatory. However, when the scheme is initiated by an employee, it will be mandatory for an employer to adopt clearly defined actions leading to the election of an HSR. The bill provides for the establishment of work groups, agreed processes for the election by employees of an HSR, and access by the HSR to accredited training. As part of its duty to consult, the employer is required to provide training and facilities and share information with an elected HSR.
Government recognises that the cost of election, support and training of HSRs could be a burden for small business. Accordingly, a decision has been taken to exempt small business, being employers with 10 or fewer workers, from the requirement unless the employer wishes to elect, train and support an HSR. In offering further options for small business in the Northern Territory, a provision has been included to allow for a shared or roving HSR. This will allow for the costs of the election, training and support of an HSR to be shared between groups of small businesses should they wish to do so. This provision is designed to allow those businesses wishing to collaborate to gain the benefits of a trained HSR. A roving HSR only has jurisdiction in those businesses that formally agree in writing to participate in the arrangement. It should also be made quite clear that this scheme must have the agreement of employers and workers alike. The shared or roving HSR has been successfully used in the construction industry in Victoria with multi-site employers and might be a useful mechanism for several small businesses in locations such as Casuarina Square.
An HSR is elected for two years and has a range of functions confined to workplace health and safety matters affecting the particular work group they have been elected to represent. The consultation process aims to resolve OHS issues without recourse to the authority. However, where consultation or negotiation on an appropriate OHS matter between the employer and HSR fails, the HSR has the specific power to issue a Notice of Safety Hazard advising the employer to address actually or perceived breaches of legislation and places the onus on the recipient to rectify the situation.
Advice from jurisdictions that have equivalent powers indicates that employers prefer to deal with an HSR rather than a Workplace Safety Officer. However, an employer is always able to seek assistance and direction from WorkSafe should they believe the notice is not warranted. A provision has been made for HSRs to have the collective right to cease dangerous work. This can only occur where an immediate threat to the health and safety of a person is evident. The authority’s guidance material will also detail the consultation processes that need to occur with the employer and the requirement to notify the authority if a direction to cease work is given.
An employer has every right to seek intervention by the authority should they not agree with decisions or actions of the HSR. Under the current act, workers have a right and a responsibility to cease work in an area where there is an immediate risk of severe injury to a worker at a workplace and where the employer does not remove the risk. This is retained in the bill.
A significant body of research demonstrates that having well trained HSRs in the workplace does bring about positive change in health and safety practices and there is a strong link between improved safety performance and accredited training of HSRs. An appropriate level of accredited training for HSRs is seen as essential for them to effectively engage with an employer on OHS risks and practices in the workplace. Most jurisdictions run a three- to four-day accredited OHS course for HSRs. Such a course will be developed in consultation with stakeholders to ensure the appropriate processes and content are covered, whilst minimising the impact on the employer through loss of productivity whilst the HSR is at training. Given the extent of this provision, NT WorkSafe will work with both employer and employee groups in developing guidance material that will assist in all aspects of HSRs. In addition, the government will undertake to pay for the initial training courses for HSRs in small to medium businesses which employ between 10 and 20 workers.
Provision for Health and Safety Committees continues to be an important consultation and participation mechanism in this bill on much the same basis as it currently applies. However, in recognising the primary importance of HSRs and consulting on and addressing OHS issues, the provision allows for them to seek the formation of a committee should they request it of an employer with 20 or more workers. Further, through the broadening of the definition of a worker, the provision now allows the involvement of subcontractors and other types of precarious workers such as labour hire workers in OHS committees.
The third element of consultation and worker participation is the role of Authorised Union OHS Representatives. This bill allows for an Authorised Union OHS Representative to constructively support HSRs, workers and employers in resolving OHS issues in the workplace. This division of the bill includes specific objects that make it clear that the balance between employers’ and employees’ rights and responsibilities must be maintained. The research to date is that health and safety performance is improved where trained and authorised union representatives are engaged with HSRs and employers in the workplace on OHS issues. In Australia, there has been a long tradition of allowing unions reasonable access to workplaces.
The Australian government’s Workplace Relations Act provides for entry to workplaces by authorised representatives of employee associations, including for OHS purposes. The Workplace Relations Act details the arrangements for such entry including permits and conditions, permitted activity whilst on-site, notice requirements, etcetera. It also prohibits misrepresentation regarding entry and activity on-site. These provisions apply to workplaces in the Northern Territory.
This act provides for access by registered union officials to Northern Territory workplaces to investigate suspected breaches of OHS laws. In these circumstances, access is permitted to workplaces where there are union members or where the union is a party to an award or a collective agreement covering workers at the workplace. A union representative can access the workplace after giving 24 hours notice to the employer to meet with people at the workplace who are members or eligible to be members during breaks.
Some stakeholders have expressed concern that allowing a union representative to enter a workplace for OHS reasons will lead to an abuse of power by union representatives and will be used as a tool to progress industrial relations issues. In response to this, a range of provisions in the bill places stringent conditions on the union representative. Only appropriately OHS trained and authorised union representatives can enter a work site under these provisions. In the spirit of cooperation, authorised union representatives are expected to make the employer aware of the workplace health and safety issue as soon as practicable after entry to a workplace. They are also required to comply with conditions out placed in the Commonwealth Workplace Relations Act.
Similarly, employers are not to hinder or obstruct an authorised union representative in carrying out their functions. Where entry is sought to discuss OHS matters with workers, eligible members of the registered employee association must be present and must agree to talk with the representative. The authorised representative must give 24 hours notice of their intention to have discussions and must meet during breaks in a location directed by the employer.
Entry other than on these conditions or circumstances is not allowed under this bill. The government’s belief is that unions have a positive role to play in supporting employees and employers in resolving workplace health and safety issues, and creating a cooperative and more proactive culture when it comes to risk prevention.
The bill makes it clear that the authority will be able to assist the parties in relation to the operation of these provisions. The government’s expectation is that the need for sanctions will not arise, but in the event that any individual does not hear the message, improper use of the powers will not be tolerated and tough sanctions will apply. Appropriate mechanisms for disqualification from holding HSR or authorised union representative powers have been made explicit in the bill, and will be enforced. There is also a right to sue for damages in the event of misuse of power which results in loss or damage to a business.
In introducing this part, I highlighted the significant role that consultation, cooperation and negotiation is to play in decision-making processes regarding workplace health and safety. NT WorkSafe will work with stakeholders to prepare guidance material relating to consultation, HSRs, Health and Safety Committees and Authorised Union Representatives to ensure that actions on the ground are guided by the intent of the bill.
Part 5 outlines the statutory duties of care. All Australian OHS statutes place general duties upon a range of parties, including employers to employees, and to person other than employees, self-employed people, people in control of workplaces, designers of plant and buildings, manufacturers, suppliers and importers of plant and substance, and employees. The general duty provisions ensure that all principal parties involved in the work process are subject to interlocking and overlapping duties that require them to do all that is reasonably practicable to complete or undertake work in a way that is safe. It gives the duty holder the freedom to develop his or her own solutions to OHS problems.
These general duties are absolute. That is, there is no need to prove intent or recklessness, but the extent of the duty is restricted to taking measures that are reasonably practicable. This means that any prosecution action must include proving all aspects of its case, including that the defendant failed to do what was reasonably practicable beyond reasonable doubt.
In the interests of certainty and clarity, the bill sets out how the employer should carry out the general duty by adopting a systematic approach to OHS. This clearly indicates that the outcome is the elimination of risk through a systematic approach, but still gives the duty holder choice in how to achieve that outcome.
Building design can have a critical influence on OHS outcomes. The inclusion of a duty on those who design, construct, manufacture, import, install or supply a workplace is contemporary practice, and is also an important preventative measure. Designing to avoid potential hazards in workplaces before they exist is effectively eliminating hazards at the source. The duty is limited to those matters which are under control of the designer.
The general duties imposed on employees remain unchanged in the bill. All jurisdictions have a requirement for certain types of serious incidents to be reported to the regulator. In the interests of clarity for employers and workers, Part 6 specifies what is a reportable incident and sets out the requirement for reporting incidents to the authority. Inspectors’ powers define the capacity to enforce an act. An act that fails to give inspectors adequate powers will be essentially toothless and will, in practice, not achieve its objects.
Part 7 of this bill deals with powers applicable to investigations. The powers under the current Northern Territory legislation are non-specific and give limited direction. The current act is silent on the power to enforce the act, the use of search warrants, the seizure of objects or material for evidence, as well as the power to compel answers and to give directions. This is in stark contrast to all other jurisdictions in which legislation gives detailed direction to reduce potential loopholes and gaps in the areas of investigation and enforcement. These deficiencies limit the capacity of the act to be used to gain and enforce compliance with OHS legislation or to facilitate prosecution.
The provisions under Part 7 address these deficiencies and provide Workplace Health and Safety Officers with the necessary powers to enable them to perform their compliance role efficiently and effectively. It gives them protection to conduct their work safely without being hindered or obstructed in their regulatory roles and it protects them from liability.
Having these powers does not detract from the educative function that is part of a regulatory role, and the authority will ensure the appropriate application of advisory, educative and compliance roles. Enforcement is essential for workplace health and safety legislation to achieve its objectives. Under the current act, the Northern Territory does not meet contemporary practice in the matter of enforcement strategies and powers. All jurisdictions in Australia now recognise the value of graduated enforcement measures. That is, having the capacity to gradually escalate the level of sanctions to the top of an enforcement pyramid whilst ensuring the majority of their effort is focused on less interventionist approaches where these seem likely to achieve the desired change in behaviour.
Part 8 sets out enforcement measures that reflect an appropriate balance between persuasion and punishment. The bill provides the authority with a range of enforcement options. It allows the use of persuasive approaches to support a duty holder to meet obligations whilst retaining the option to use punitive measures in those cases where legal force is necessary. An important mechanism in the graduated enforcement regime relates to the enforcement tools available to the authority. The provisions allow for the authority to enter into an agreement with the alleged offender to take specific actions to remedy or guard against future contraventions. Under these agreements, a duty holder who has allegedly breached the obligations under the bill could undertake to do something which, if not done, is enforced in court. The duty holder enters into the orders voluntarily, and the authority may accept the activities associated with the order as an alternative to prosecution action through the courts. The intention of such orders is to ensure that effort and resources are directed to where they can have a positive effect on OHS outcomes.
The bill ensures that the appropriate level of corporate officer who makes key decisions in relation to OHS can be held personally accountable for those decisions. It is evident that an officer cannot be held accountable for a safety breach which he/she could not reasonably have been expected to know about or over which he/she has no control. Again, this accords with contemporary OHS practice.
The penalties for failure to comply with the Work Health Act are currently the lowest in the country. Indeed, they are so low that some stakeholders have indicated that some employers might budget for fines because it is cheaper than compliance. The Mining Management Act currently has a maximum penalty of up to 12 500 penalty units for a body corporate, and a maximum of up to 2500 penalty units for an individual where there is an intentional breach of duty by a duty holder who ought to know the offence may result in death and which, in fact, did cause death.
The maximum penalty for this particular circumstance will be maintained in the Workplace Health and Safety Act. In other circumstances, the bill brings the maximum penalty for a corporation to 5000 penalty units, with penalties to 7000 penalty units for aggravated offences. For individuals, the maximum penalty has been set at 1000 penalty units. This takes the Northern Territory penalty regime to the middle range amongst other jurisdictions. Of course, it is up to the court in each case to decide what penalty applies in the range up to the maximum but, generally, I would expect to see penalties applied by the court to increase.
Custodial sentences in the current act still apply in the new bill. Despite some stakeholders believing that the bill should include an offence of industrial manslaughter, this does not represent contemporary practice in Australia and it is not included in this bill.
Part 9 provides for a range of review and appeal provisions that more accurately reflect contemporary practice. The bill provides for transparency by adopting clearly defined review provisions that allow the application of both internal and external review.
Part 10 contains miscellaneous provisions. Employees’ representatives such as HSRs have a critical role to play in improving OHS outcomes. In discharging their responsibilities, they may come into conflict with their employer or other workers. They must feel secure in their employment in order to be effective. For this reason, discrimination against a worker on the grounds of OHS activity is prohibited. The bill provides that once the discrimination is proved, the employer has the burden of proof on the balance of probabilities to show that OHS activity was not the predominant reason for the discrimination. This bill allows for the act to be reviewed every five years thereby providing for Northern Territory OHS legislation to remain contemporary.
A general duties approach to OHS regulation involves the use of regulations and codes of practice to provide the detail on how the general duties are to be achieved. As actions from the National Mine Safety Framework Agreement have progressed, it will be necessary to include specific mine safety regulations. The bill allows for those regulations to be made under the Work Health (Occupational Health and Safety) Regulations.
In concluding the discussion relating to the Workplace Health and Safety Bill, I extend my sincere thanks to those members of the industry-based reference group and other stakeholders who made submissions and provided valuable guidance during the period of consultation, review and reform. While some stakeholders may have reservations with some aspects of the bill, it is evident that in the main, there is consensus that improving workplace health and safety is a priority for government, industry, employers, employees and the community.
I now turn to the legislation introduced under the Law Reform (Work Health) Bill which deals with consequential amendments made to other legislation arising from the enactment of this bill. Part 2 separates the current Work Health Act into two bills, creating the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act from the existing legislation relating to workers compensation. Amendments in the interpretation section reflect the Executive Director acting as the authority, and tidy up the bill where the removal of OHS aspects have an impact on definitions in other parts of the current Work Health Act.
Part 3 amends the Petroleum Act to transfer administrative responsibility for OHS regulation of onshore construction activity in production facilities to the Workplace Health and Safety Act. Once production facilities commence operations, responsibility for OHS regulation shifts to the Petroleum Act.
Part 4 amends the Dangerous Goods Act to allow the act to apply to all industry sectors, including mining.
Part 5 amends the Mining Management Act to remove all references to OHS.
Part 6 amends the Work Health Regulations to include changes to risk management to give a clearer definition of the hierarchy of control, and to emphasise the elimination of risk as a primary goal. It also allows for the insertion of mining operation regulations once agreement around mine-specific safety regulations are finalised from the National Mine Safety Framework. Transitional arrangements allow for current Mine Management Plans to be enforced until further regulations relating to OHS Risk Management Plans are published in the Gazette.
Part 7 provides for transitional arrangements to allow the Work Health (Occupational Health and Safety) Regulations to be taken as regulations under the proposed Workplace Health and Safety Act.
Madam Speaker, I am pleased to present this legislation package to the parliament as the government is committed to doing all we can to keep Territorians working safer.
In conclusion, I thank officers at WorkSafe NT who have done an enormous amount of work in pulling this together. It has been a huge body of work, and my sincere thanks to officers of the department for their contributions. I commend the bills to honourable members.
Debate adjourned.
Bill presented and read a first time.
Ms MARTIN (Chief Minister): Madam Speaker, I move that the bill be now read a second time.
The purpose of this bill is to make special provisions in connection with the Bonaparte Gas Pipeline project. This project is a significant investment by the Power and Water Corporation and the Australian Pipeline Trust in the Northern Territory’s energy infrastructure and sustainable future. The Bonaparte Gas Pipeline project involves the construction and operation of an underground gas pipeline and associated infrastructure. The pipeline is approximately 280 km in length and will transport gas from ENIs onshore gas processing facility near Wadeye to a connection on the existing Amadeus Basin to Darwin pipeline on Ban Ban Springs Station.
Major projects such as the Bonaparte Gas Pipeline project are expected to operate within the Territory’s existing laws. However, there are circumstances where it is necessary to modify the Territory’s laws to enable the project to be constructed and operated in the most practical way. Where this is required, the approach has been to identify and clearly set out in legislation modifications to existing Territory laws. Following consultation with the Power and Water Corporation, the Australian Pipeline Trust and their legal advisors, I am pleased to report that only a handful of modifications have been found necessary to support the project.
The bill creates statutory rights in relation to road and waterway crossings; these rights are required to maintain continuity of the pipeline corridor. The rights are exercisable with the relevant minister’s consent with conditions after which the Bonaparte Gas Pipeline may be constructed and operated. The grant of this right may be subject to conditions concerning matters such as safety and construction.
The bill creates a mechanism to enable Authority Certificates issued under the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act in connection with the Bonaparte Gas Pipeline to be relied upon the by the project participants, including contractors, subject to the same conditions, whether the project participants were the applicant or not. This mechanism allows future owners of the pipeline to have the benefit of and the obligations imposed by the Authority Certificate.
The Power and Water Corporation and the Australian Pipeline Trust are negotiating with owners of land comprising the pipeline corridor. The tenure being negotiated on parts of the pipeline corridor contained within a pastoral lease is an easement. The bill makes it clear that an easement in gross may be granted over pastoral land. The easement, when granted, will be subject to the Law of Property Act.
The Bonaparte Gas Pipeline project is scheduled to commence construction in the Dry Season of 2008. At that time, the project participants will be seeking extractive minerals, which are sand, soil and gravel, to construct and maintain access routes during construction as well as provide bedding material for the pipeline.
The bill removes the advertising and objection periods for the grant of Extractive Mineral Permit or Licence under the Mining Act granted for the benefit of the Bonaparte Gas Pipeline. Where the project participants have the consent of the owner/occupier of the land proposed for the taking of extractives, the consent of any holder of any existing Mining Tenement or Exploration Licence over the land proposed for the taking of extractives and, where required, the proponents have complied with the requirements of the Native Title Act 1993 and, if the land is Aboriginal land, the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976 about taking of extractive minerals on the land.
Finally, the bill provides that the pipeline corridor is exempt from subdivision requirements of the Planning Act.
I commend this bill to honourable members and table the explanatory statement to accompany the bill.
Debate adjourned.
Bill presented and read a first time.
Mr STIRLING (Justice and Attorney-General): Madam Speaker, I move that the bill be now read a second time.
The purpose of this bill is to amend four acts that fall within the Justice portfolio. The acts amended in this bill are the Construction Contracts (Security of Payments) Act, the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act, the Legal Profession Act, and the Victims of Crime Assistance Act. I will detail the amendments in the order in which they are contained in the bill.
The first set of amendments is to the Construction Contracts (Security of Payments) Act. Under the bill, the existing 28 day time limit for bringing an application for adjudication of a payment dispute involving a construction bill has been extended to 90 days. This amendment is proposed following construction industry advice that most businesses work a 30-day invoice cycle. The current 28 day limit means that in effect, these businesses have no time to lodge an application for adjudication should a payment dispute arise. The amendment will enable ample time for invoices to be issued as well as giving the parties an opportunity to resolve disputes themselves before lodging a complaint with the Construction Contracts Registrar.
The bill also clarifies that applicants who have lodged an application for adjudication on a payment dispute are able to withdraw the application prior to adjudication. In addition, the bill ensures that once an adjudicator is appointed to hear a matter, they are entitled to be paid if the matter is withdrawn prior to determination, if they dismiss the application or if they make a determination. Adjudicators often spend many hours preparing to hear disputes which may be resolved by the parties at the last minute. Under such circumstances, it is appropriate they should be paid for their time and effort.
The final amendment to the Construction Contracts (Security of Payments) Act will permit adjudicators to make decisions about costs should an application be withdrawn prior to determination. This will address the situation where a party institutes vexatious or frivolous claims against other companies and then withdraws at the last moment. It will also mean that companies that are inconvenienced by the failure of a client to pay a bill and to instigate proceedings need not be held liable for the costs of adjudication if they receive payment immediately prior to the adjudication hearing.
I turn to the second set of amendments in this bill, which apply to the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act. The amendments have also come about as the result of feedback from stakeholders, this time from police and prosecutors who regularly bring proceedings under the act. The bill amends the scheme so that Interim Restraining Orders will operate for three working days. These types of orders are normally obtained by police in extraordinary circumstances where property suspected of being derived from criminal activity is at risk of being disposed of prior to proceedings being formally commenced in a court. The difficulty arises when police seek these orders and the date of expiration falls on a weekend or a public holiday. Interim Restraining Orders cannot be extended. By amending the act to allow Interim Restraining Orders to run over a period of working days, police can now apply for such an order knowing that it will not expire over a period such as Easter or Christmas or when the courts are not sitting.
The second amendment to the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act removes the three-month time limit for the operation of court-issued Restraining Orders. Those working in the field indicated that the task of serving Restraining Order notices often consumed disproportionate time and resources, particularly when the property and potential owners span several jurisdictions. By the time all interested parties are located and served with the Notice of Restraining Order, the three month period had virtually expired and prosecutors have to start the process all over again.
This is not an efficient use of resources which could be better spent examining claims to lawful ownership of property and challenging those who are unable to justify the existence or ownership of property in the courts. The proposed amendment will lift the time limit for the operation of a Restraining Order. It will be a matter for the court to determine how long a Restraining Order or an extension of a Restraining Order shall operate. It should be noted, however, that the amendment will not interfere in any way with the right to apply to the court to have an order lifted. Where a person is capable of establishing lawful ownership of property, the amendment will not affect their access to the courts.
Madam Speaker, the third act to which amendments are proposed under this bill is the Legal Profession Act. A set of technical amendments is proposed to ease the transition to the new act when the costs assessment provisions commence in December of this year. Costs assessments relate to the cost of legal services in any disputes that may arise in relation to them. The new provisions enable specially appointed costs assessors to determine whether the amount of legal costs paid is appropriate or to impose an amount of costs that is a fair and reasonable substitute.
If a particular legal issue arises in addition to the question of costs, the costs assessor may refer the matter to the Supreme Court. Alternatively, the costs assessor may issue a certificate stating exactly how much each party is liable to pay. If the parties remain dissatisfied with the decision of the costs assessor, they may apply to have the decision reviewed in relation to a determination, setting aside an initial costs agreement, the certificate specifying the particular determination of a costs assessor, or for a certificate specifying the costs each party must pay for the costs assessment.
The bill also clarifies that any suitable lawyer may be appointed as a costs assessor. This ensures that the Supreme Court Masters and Judicial Registrars are included. The current provision states that a costs assessor must be a legal practitioner. This carries a requirement that the lawyer holds a valid practising certificate. This is not something required by Masters and Registrars and so would preclude them from engaging in this important task.
The final act to be amended by the bill is the Victims of Crime Assistance Act. This is also a technical amendment which clarifies that bodies corporate as well as individuals found guilty of criminal offences are liable to pay the victims’ levy if their sentence is not one of imprisonment. Corporate bodies are regularly prosecuted for breaches of environmental laws, road safety laws and work health and safety provisions. A penalty imposed on a corporate body is usually a monetary penalty. Government considers that corporations which commit crimes should not be exempt from paying the victims’ levy, particularly since the offending behaviour often has serious ramifications for the community.
The amendment ensures that those corporations, no matter how big or small, which engage in criminal activity will be liable to pay not only whatever monetary penalty the court sees fit to impose but also a levy which is then used to provide much needed assistance to victims of crime. The amount of the victims’ levy to be imposed on corporations under the amendment is in line with general policy on the proportion of corporate fines and comparison with individual limits.
I commend the bill to honourable members and table a copy of the explanatory statement.
Debate adjourned.
Bill presented and read a first time.
Ms LAWRIE (Natural Resources, Environment and Heritage): Madam Speaker, I move that the bill be now read a second time.
This bill delivers an important first stage of an election promise to review the Water Act, and is a significant step towards guaranteeing transparency and accountability in statutory decision-making with regard to water extraction licensing.
The act is a critical component of a suite of Territory environmental and resource management law. It provides for the Territory’s ground and surface water resources to be actively managed through Water Allocation Plans designed to protect both environmental and cultural uses, and to establish the amount of water available for purposes such as domestic use, irrigation, industry and stock watering, the consumptive pool.
Water Allocation Plans are being developed on a priority basis in areas under most pressure from increased consumptive use. The plans will articulate the amount of water allocated to each of the declared beneficial uses, and the rules and regulations associated with water extraction in the area of the plan, including, for example, water trading and alteration of allocations.
The act regulates access to water entitlements drawn from the consumptive pool through licensing arrangements. Currently there are in the order of 116 licences operating to extract groundwater, and 68 licences to extract surface water. The number of licences is expected to increase quite substantially as Water Allocation Plans are completed. Since licences govern access to the water resource, they are the primary mechanism to ensure that individually, licensees are legally accountable for the water extracted and that collectively, entitlements remain within established sustainable limits.
Licensing of water extraction allows comprehensive regulation to ensure that the resource is protected from overuse and from pollution. The over-allocation and over-use of water for consumptive purposes is a major cause of river degradation and lack of water security in every other Australian jurisdiction. Accordingly, the nature and adequacy of licensing arrangements for water extraction are the subject of considerable external attention by both water consumers and those with a non-consumptive interest in the use or health of the resources such as indigenous landholders, anglers, tourist operators and non-government environment groups.
The Territory is in a unique position, very different from the rest of Australia, where water resources have not been over-allocated. However, careful management is now required to ensure that we remain in this position and ensure that sufficient allocation of water resources is made to the environment and for cultural purposes. We want to protect our precious water resources as we enter a new phase in the Territory’s development, particularly with regard to agricultural development.
As a signatory to the National Water Initiative, the Territory has particular obligations to water reform. These include: requirements to put in place transparent, contestable processes for considering and reviewing approvals; sound information available to all sectors at key decision points and full public access to Water Entitlement Registers; and open planning processes and careful monitoring of the performance of water plans with regular public reporting.
A simple set of transparency and accountability provisions are therefore proposed by way of amendment to the act and Water Regulations. The proposed amendments build on the intent of the existing provisions and would see: the discretionary objections-based process for surface water extraction replaced with a non-discretionary public notification and comment process that applies to both surface and groundwater extraction licences; the existing provision for a register enhanced by creating a public register containing relevant licensing information including levels of permitted water extraction; and an obligation on the Controller of Water Resources to publish a statement of reasons for either granting or refusing a water extraction licence.
The proposed amendments are not complex and add no entirely new processes to the act, but rather refine and remove discretion to dispense with existing processes. A requirement to give reasons for decisions is consistent with much Territory administrative law, especially in relation to applications for licences or entitlement in which there is a legitimate public interest.
The proposed amendments are consistent with provisions already established for land clearing, where applications are routinely advertised and information on permits is publicly accessible.
Achieving a degree of consistency in the manner in which the community can contribute and gain access to information on the licensing processes for both water extraction and land clearing will considerably strengthen the government’s capacity to outwardly demonstrate that key natural resource management decisions are rigorous, robust, and consistent with sustainability principles.
While individually, the amendments are not sufficient to fully address the Territory’s National Water Initiative obligations, the improved transparency and accountability achieved through these amendments will meet some repeated concerns of the National Water Commission about processes for public engagement in water allocation in the Territory.
In a climate in which the Australian government appears increasingly restless over water reform and implementation of the National Water Initiative, the proposed amendments represent a useful first step in demonstrating that the Territory is seriously addressing its National Water Initiative commitments. By demonstrating continuing commitment to the National Water Initiative reform, the amendments will assist in securing continued National Water Initiative funding from the Australian government. To date, the Territory has been successful in obtaining $1.8m in Water Smart Australia funding under the National Water Initiative. Further funding applications from the Territory are currently under consideration by the Australian government.
It should be noted that the proposed amendments do not represent a complete overhaul of the act. Consistent with election commitments, and taking into account National Water Initiative obligations, a full review of the act has commenced and will take until the end of 2008 to complete. This second stage of the review will also take into account advice of the recently announced Environment Protection Authority in respect of its overall evaluation of environmental laws.
Public reaction to proposals for more open and accountable decision-making on water is likely to be overwhelmingly positive, particularly given current sentiment. State governments across Australia are widely regarded as having failed to provide sound management of water to permit productive rural and urban use while avoiding environmental damage. Changing the Water Act has been identified as desirable through a number of formal and informal processes.
I hope I have made it clear that these initial amendments to the Water Act will go a long way towards improving transparency and accountability in respect of decisions taken on water extraction. It will vastly improve public confidence in the processes by which water resources are allocated and managed, and will help to satisfy obligations to water reform as set out in the National Water Initiative.
Water management in the Australia has an appalling track record in other jurisdictions and it is of vital importance that we get it right, to do that in an open and transparent manner, but more importantly, to do it in partnership with the community which depends on the ability to access water resources for economic, social, cultural and environmental prosperity.
Madam Speaker, I commend the bill the Assembly and table a copy of the explanatory statement.
Debate adjourned.
Ms ANDERSON (Macdonnell): Madam Speaker, I table the report of the Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community titled Substance Abuse in Remote Communities: Overcoming the Confusion and Disconnection, and transcripts of evidence from the committee’s inquiry.
Ms ANDERSON (Macdonnell): Madam Speaker, I move that the Assembly take note of the report and this tabling statement.
As my fellow members will be aware from the interim statement I delivered earlier this year, this report comes from an inquiry the committee began 18 months ago. The committee travelled to communities in Central Australia and the Top End speaking to people about substance abuse, its effects and what is being done about it. We have heard some powerful stories along the way, terrible things about the price paid for substance abuse, and the good things about what is being done about it by strong people in the communities.
That is the main message of the report: this twofold message of terrible harms on the one hand, and the important good things that are being done to address them. This is not cause to despair. There are things that can be done to make things better. We need to keep in good heart so we can support those good things and spread them throughout the Territory. There is no reason why the situation needs to be, as it often has, chewing up people’s lives as though they were worth nothing. The solution is in our hands together.
These lives do mean something. These people are fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters. They have aspirations and they will be more able to pursue them if we can follow through and reduce the ill effects of substance abuse. That is what these communities need: a break, a respite from substance abuse so they can start thinking and planning and bring their young ones up through education and look after their old people. These are normal things, but so precious.
So there is good and bad. We need to support one and be firm in the face the other. Truly inspirational are the people already doing this on the ground. These are often people who get started without anything in the way of external money, who just started because they cared, and kept on for the same reason; strong people who make a difference.
There are also people who are not local who bring different skills and perspectives to their work in the communities. We met many of these people and they appear in the pages of the report and the transcripts of evidence, telling us how they do their work and why. It is indeed a story of care and commitment, often in the face of tough conditions. Out of this comes a picture of an agreed approach on how to tackle these issues.
With all the bad news reported in the media, it is perhaps tempting to think ‘How terrible’ and do nothing. These people show us how wrong this is. With consistent funding, programs can take people away from substance abuse and show them another way of living. Clients get back a sense of self-respect and responsibility, and get the benefit of time on country. If the supply of substances – alcohol, petrol and ganja – is reduced, and there is access to rehab and there is an effective recreation program then this, as one witness said, forms a ‘killer combination’ that really does stem the tide. So things can be better. Remote communities have been brought back from the brink of collapse by this approach, so we know it works.
Supply reduction, demand reduction and rehabilitation - responsibility, community engagement and negotiation – are the central pillars that we as a committee heard about again and again. They add up to an established body of good practice to counter substance abuse in remote communities. Community-based services right across the Territory told the committee about this. What we need to do together is pick up and support these initiatives, fund them properly, and follow through to make a big change to the situation in the Northern Territory. We also need to address supply issues right across the Territory.
Believe me, we saw ample evidence of how necessary this is. Where communities are under the thumb of widespread substance abuse, almost nothing can go right. Children cannot get enough sleep or feel safe enough to go to school. Adults, too, do not feel safe, and their job prospects are affected. Where substance abuse is not controlled, even the modest assets that communities hold in common such as community stores are raided and disrupted to the detriment of all, as though they had nothing else extra to give away.
But where the tide of substance abuse is halted, wonderful things happen. As one witness said, communities can then have ‘space’ to think about other things. They can plan for the future, rather than simply react to what substance abuse throws in their path. They can think about getting their kids to school, about preventative measures and ways to deal with other things they need to think about. We can unlock a lot of local talent just by putting the brakes on substance abuse.
Many of the positive things I have talked about so far can be seen in Alcohol Management Plans where they are up and running. The plan at Groote Eylandt shows the community choosing to sacrifice a little freedom of access to alcohol so that they can have less harm from it. Limits have been chosen by the community itself in a process of negotiation amongst all players. The responsibility, the ownership, stays with the community. That is why the plan continues to be a positive influence and why people in the community are willing to comply with it: this is a real-world agreement. As a result, communities on Groote Eylandt have seen big reductions in violence and property crime, there are more local people being employed by the local mine and they are building a new resort.
These are the good things that come when this great weight, substance abuse, is taken off a community. They can marshal their resources to do things for their community members and look to the future with greater optimism. By this, relationships within the community are strengthened, and this, too, builds the community up.
There are challenges ahead. The history of the Groote Eylandt plan shows us that extended negotiation is needed at community level, and a lot of goodwill to stay the distance and get a result. Some communities will find that harder than others. For the committee, the important thing is the message. There are things that can be done, and established approaches that work that can be used to stop the damage done to many remote communities in 40 years of widespread substance abuse.
Alcohol Management Plans might look rather different from other measures I have talked about today, but they are not so very different. The same basic elements apply: supply reduction, demand reduction and rehabilitation, engaging the community and keeping a sense of ownership. That is what the committee has seen and heard in its travels across the Territory. That is how you do it; there is no great mystery.
We need to think about what we can do to support this best-practice approach. How does government get behind this and ensure that since we have good tools, they are being used out there? There is no excuse for not doing something good.
The committee identified a few key areas where things can be done differently, and where we can expect clear benefits if we do. One is a change in funding processes. The short-term nature of funding has been a cause of concern for quite some time, but it still seems to be getting in the way of community-based programs. It limits their capacity to plan and restricts the amount of preventative work they can do. They could do so much more with a bit more follow through from government. When that does not happen, the momentum and the commitment from the community is stopped, and they have to start again. They should not have to do that.
By the same token, there are times case management and follow-ups are compromised because of insufficient capacity in the Territory Department of Family and Community Services. In real life, people come to harm because of this. This is just one part of larger lack of coordination that lets substance abuse get out of hand. We need to shut that down by having consistent responses for each of the main substances of abuse across the Territory, and an overall framework that covers the ways they interact.
At a community level, there have been shortfalls in coordination and service delivery by government agencies, and the committee has seen how this, too, has added to substance abuse, making harms worse. Local government reforms show signs of addressing these problems, and the committee views these changes with interest.
Looking at the big picture, we need to put our limited resources to the best possible use if we are to make headway on substance abuse. Better coordination is one part of this. Another part is to make sure that we have the information we need to make choices on funding priorities. We need more research, particularly on cannabis, to ensure we can make the best decisions in the future based on evidence so that we can get the best result for our money.
It is true that there are many challenges ahead. Remoteness is an obstacle and, added to that, we have cultural differences and an historical legacy that is hard to ignore. That is all the more reason, then, to respond to substance abuse in a more concerted, practical way and to maintain our resolve so we can one day put this behind us.
As I have already said, there are many good people out there who are giving much and are making a difference. Members of the committee wanted to feed back to them their appreciation and support for what they are doing and has produced this DVD for this purpose. It is intended as a message of support, of caring and understanding of the problems which too many communities face. I have copies of the DVD for the information of members.
Madam Speaker, before closing, I place on the record my appreciation of the work and dedication of my fellow committee members. I have felt 100% supported by them during the course of the inquiry, and I know that they have been as committed to it and wanting to make a difference as I have. I know that we in this Assembly can make a difference and provide for a better future for our communities, a future which is not marred by substance abuse and its catastrophic impacts.
Mrs MILLER (Katherine): Madam Speaker, it is with a great deal of pride that I speak to the Report on Substance Abuse in the Community: Confronting the Confusion and Disconnection. This is a result of the hard work that has been put in by the Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community.
I was appointed to the Substance Abuse committee when I first entered parliament in 2003, and was reappointed to the committee, together with current members, on 17 August 2005. I can honestly say that this committee has been a pleasure to work on. There is bipartisan cooperation between the members, and each and every member has a sincere commitment to achieving outcomes that we believe are workable and sustainable for our Territory communities.
Problems associated with substance abuse in the Northern Territory have been around for many years, and were well and truly evident when I first arrived in the Territory in late 1989. The most obvious problem in Katherine then was alcohol and, for most of the communities, regional and remote, including Katherine, still is. However, more obvious in recent years is the destruction that petrol and cannabis wreak, especially on our indigenous population. The terms of reference to which the committee worked gave us the flexibility to investigate as comprehensively as we could the effects of alcohol, petrol and cannabis on our indigenous communities.
The first of our community visits to listen to the people living in Central Australia were organised for April and May 2006. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend community meetings at Papunya, Harts Range and Engawala on the Plenty Highway as I was still recovering from a vehicle accident which happened in March. I was disappointed that I did not get to hear what these community members had to say face-to-face, because there is such a difference in each of them as to what their problems were and are, and how they were handling them within their own communities. I had to rely on the transcripts for that information and what other members have discussed. I have to say it is not quite the same as listening in person to those people and hearing their concerns.
However, other members of the committee have reported that it was very interesting to see the significant differences in community handling of substance abuse from one side of the Stuart Highway to the way communities on the other side address their problems. Despite the fact that I still was not feeling A1, when the committee planned to travel to northern communities, I was determined that I would go to find out for myself how these communities were handling their problems. I am so glad that I did.
The committee travelled to Groote Eylandt, and the people who presented to us there were inspiring. It was an absolute delight to hear of just how much has occurred on the island, and it is through the determination and perseverance of community members who wanted better outcomes for their families, with strict control on the sale and consumption of alcohol. The support of the whole community to changes in the use and abuse of alcohol have completely changed the way that indigenous people are living and working on the island.
It was, indeed, inspiring, and something that came as a surprise to all of the members of the committee to listen to the presentations of those community members to realise just how much work had been going on that we were not aware of. We came away from Groote Eylandt uplifted and absolutely relieved that we had seen such happy community members who were in control of their families and their lives. We were all inspired by what we had seen and heard. It certainly felt good to listen to what the community people on the island had done to get to where they are now.
Our next stop was Nhulunbuy, and that was a little different in that their control of substance abuse was still going through the community consultation and negotiation process. There is a sincere effort to come to workable solutions in addressing substance abuse. Because of Nhulunbuy’s location, the demographics are all together different from Groote Eylandt and, therefore, the model used on the island needed some modifications to work on the mainland.
The following day, the committee travelled to Wadeye. I have to say that we went from seeing so much enthusiasm on Groote Eylandt with successful programs supporting the communities to what I can only describe as absolute despair from some of the community members who presented to us at Wadeye. It is fair to say that there, every one of the committee members was deeply moved listening to how the women and children live every day of their lives with just about everything that we take for granted in our daily lives being non-existent in theirs. We listened to these women who have been living in the community all of their lives tell us so candidly what they experience. It is no wonder they have such a sense of despair.
One of these women had around 15 extra children or people living in her three-bedroom house, including some of her grandchildren, because her daughter could not look after them. She is a teacher at the school and, because of the overcrowding in her home, she has nowhere to prepare the lessons for her students except to go to school earlier each day to do it, where she has some peace and calm surrounding her. It is no wonder she looked so exhausted. She is very giving of herself, but has no time to concentrate on her own health and wellbeing.
Our visit to Wadeye has had more impact on me than any community I have ever visited, and has made me more than ever want to do so much to see significant changes implemented to help women and children like these in that community. I feel that, as a committee, we have an obligation to ensure that the recommendations we have made are accepted in the manner in which they are intended. They are as a result of lengthy consultation with the people who are really affected by substance abuse. We owe it to these people who talked candidly to us to ensure that their voices are listened to and acted upon and that their concerns are respected.
The recommendations that the committee has made have been developed after comprehensive consultation with many communities and after long deliberations within the committee. I am very comfortable with the 15 recommendations in the report. They are comprehensive and address a wide range of social issues and, if implemented, will make a significant change for the people who live in these communities. Without a doubt, many of the issues facing most of these communities relate to poor housing, overcrowded housing, lack of education, poor health outcomes, and lack of meaningful employment. All of these challenges obviously contribute to the high levels of substance abuse that is so prevalent in some of these communities.
One of the findings that the committee identified was that there are many different agencies and non-government organisations which are providing similar services in addressing substance abuse. I have to agree that it is a little confusing trying to sort through the myriad of assistance that is available, and working out which is the most appropriate for one’s community.
When I was trying to sort out all of the agencies in Katherine alone, it made me wonder if there could be better management of finances and coordinated programs to address the issues of substance abuse more directly and with a higher degree of successful outcomes. I am not suggesting for a moment that programs available at present do not have the best intentions, but a much better coordinated approach would be better all round financially and for quicker, more successful outcomes.
Recommendation 10 states that our committee recommends that agencies follow a practice of consistent and coordinated consultation between themselves when dealing with matters affecting individual communities, and recognise the importance of representation of local people if services are to be appropriate.
The 15 recommendations that we, as a coordinated, bipartisan and caring committee, have put in our report come under the headings of: coordination of effort; petrol; alcohol; cannabis; indicators for all substances; assessing services, needs and resources in remote communities; existing services and their interface with government; human resources for community-based services; network view of key elements in communities; governance, ownership and resilience; regulation and policing in communities; housing and health; employment; education; and recreation. We have noted our findings and our recommendations for each of these 15 areas, and I strongly encourage all members of this Assembly read through this report - it will relate to your electorates as well.
Our journey as a committee to the point where we are today with this presentation of the report to the Assembly could not have been possible without the support and assistance of the Committee Secretariat. I thank the Committee Secretary, Pat Hancock; Research Officer, Dr Brian Lloyd; Research and Administrative Assistant, Kellie Trout; and Committee Support Assistant, Kim Cowcher, for the fabulous work they have done in support of our committee. Members asked all the questions and certainly came up with some interesting documentation, but the amount of work that has gone into collating all of this information from our community briefings and committee meetings is to be highly commended, and that was done by the committee staff I have mentioned. Elected members would never have the time to be able to present such a well drafted report, so thank you Pat, Brian, Kellie and Kim for the wonderful support that you have given us.
To add a personal touch to the report, our Chair, Alison Anderson, painted a beautiful piece of art that she has given to the committee which is titled, and I hope I get the pronunciation right, member for Macdonnell, Kuyawana Putukulini, which represents confusion and disconnection, as the report is very appropriately entitled. The cover of the transcript provided today depicts that painting. I should add that the findings and recommendations detailed in this report have been strengthened by the knowledge and understanding that our Chair has of the underlying problems in our indigenous communities. That knowledge has been of great benefit to this committee when visiting the communities.
Next week, the Chair, the member for Macdonnell, the member for Port Darwin, and I, with the Committee Secretary, Pat Hancock, will be attending the 4th Australasian Drug Strategy Conference on the Gold Coast. Quite apart from the additional knowledge that will be shared through the presentation by eminent speakers, we are delighted that our Chair has been asked to make a presentation to the conference which is titled ‘Substance Abuse in Territory Remote Communities: Where to Now?’ We are very privileged that this presentation will mirror the work that the Substance Abuse committee has done over the past two years.
Madam Speaker, there is so much more that can be said about this report. I recommend that each and every member reads their copy and supports its findings and that the recommendations will be taken in the spirit that they were intended by government.
Members: Hear, hear!
Debate suspended.
Continued from earlier this day.
Mr KNIGHT (Daly): Madam Speaker, I support the Substance Abuse committee report, Substance Abuse in Remote Communities: Overcoming the Confusion and Disconnection. As a member of this committee, I was delighted to see the final, very polished report after 18 months.
As has been highlighted by previous speakers, members of the committee travelled widely. We have spoken to a great many people. At a personal level, I visited places that I have never visited before and it certainly opened my eyes. I have been around parts of the Territory and witnessed different forms of substance abuse, but I have seen new areas and was horrified but also exhilarated by some of the efforts that are going on in different parts of the Territory.
Mrs BRAHAM: A point of order, Madam Speaker! It is very discourteous. There is a member on his feet trying to speak and yet there are people speaking in different areas of the Chamber, and I cannot hear what he says. We should at least get back to order and listen to the member.
Madam SPEAKER: Honourable members, if you could go about your business very quietly. We will wait for the cameras to be removed from the Chamber.
Mr KNIGHT: Thank you, member for Braitling. As I was saying, at a personal level, one of the highlights was visiting the communities just north of Alice Springs. It was a stark contrast, talking to the people on the western side of the highway, then the communities on the eastern side. It was intriguing to see why some communities were able to tackle the problems of substance abuse and other communities were struggling with the problem. There seemed to be an X factor. I would like to bottle whatever it is they have and distribute it in many other communities. It was a sign of hope. Lessons can be learnt from those communities and be transposed to others.
The Groote Eylandt visit inspired hope. The member for Katherine and I both live in Katherine and we were thinking the same things as we returned about what we could do for Katherine. We agreed that it could be a political baseball bat for hitting each other over the head with if one of us put it up because it was a fairly novel way to go about things. It certainly had some political and electoral downsides so we agreed to work on it together and not attack one another about it, to seek no political advantage from it, because we both love the town of Katherine. We see the problems of not just the people who witness drunken behaviour, but of the people who are inebriated in the main street and the kids running around who have empty bellies on Sunday night.
We had a range of meetings which were very constructive. It was very hard to convince the Katherine people of some change and it is still a work in progress. I am delighted that the Minister for Alcohol Policy and Racing, Gaming and Licensing has bitten the bullet and introduced the ID-eye system for Katherine. It will have huge ramifications for the town; it will have huge benefits for people on all sides of that community. It is a small price to pay for great rewards.
The field work done by the committee was very constructive and made up much of the content of the report. One thing that comes out in the recommendations is coordinating approaches. There is a great deal of confusion, overlap and gaps within existing structures. I have worked in the NT government system, the Commonwealth system and the community sector. It is very difficult working those areas. I also worked on a COAG trial which was supposed to address those things and that did not have a great deal of success either. There is much more work to be done.
The community-based approach is the way to go, focusing on individual communities rather than focusing on agency-across-the-Territory approach, where you identify the gaps and overlaps, and you try to fill them. People get more flexible with their funding. If there are gaps, they should try to stretch the criteria, fill in those gaps within their funding programs, and people need to leave politics at the door and focus on what can be turned out for the communities.
There are obligations on both sides, at government and community level, to address this problem. Communities are ready for it. I know people are absolutely fed up with the substance abuse in the communities. One thing that needs to be remembered is that grog, petrol, cannabis, whatever you like, is basically a form of self-medication. If we stop the grog and cannabis, people will go on to something else. The lives have to be improved. We have to listen to Gandhi: blame the sin, not the sinner. We too often blame the drunk or drug addicts, but we do not look at why they are in that situation. There is much more work required by all governments to do something about the root causes of substance abuse and at the same time working on reducing the current consumption of those products.
Some of the other recommendations in this report are about education campaigns and they are very valuable. The more people know about what different forms of substances do to you, whether it is alcohol, petrol or cannabis, you are more able to choose whether this thing is going to be beneficial to you.
Public education campaigns need to build on a foundation of having a level of education. One of the recommendations in the report is to seriously look at education levels of people who live in communities and urban centres because countless reports and studies highlight the fact that if you have a poor level of education, if you do not complete a certain stage of schooling, you make poor life choices. You slip into a situation where your life is not worth much, and you look at self-medication. Education is the key to this. It provides foundations where you can make better choices and you can make a different way of life for yourself and family.
Alcohol management plans are mentioned within the recommendations. They are very valuable. Perhaps we missed a bit of an opportunity with the Katherine one. It could have gone further. I am reassured by the minister’s approach to strengthen that alcohol management plan, and it will have results. They are the key, and it has been highlighted today in a media report on a study by the National Drug Research Institute which finds that alcohol restrictions work. The ones that work really well are the ones where the communities have been involved. They come with the sanctions or the measures because they take ownership of it. This is something that the Commonwealth government has completely forgotten in this intervention. They think they can put in 60 ADF officers, open police stations and introduce laws and it will all work. There is no use having a couple of ADF officers sitting at some community doing 10 shifts a week out of a possible 21, and so things go on and people do not report them.
If you have the community on side, you do not end up with two sets of eyes, you end up with 200 sets of eyes. Communities, once you get them on board, are your greatest asset and they will dob in everyone. They will dob in brothers and sisters because they know what is good for them. They know what alcohol does. They know what it does to members of the family, so you have to make sure that any initiative includes the community because you will save yourself a lot of money and you will certainly get the outcomes far and away from what has been achieved thus far with the Commonwealth intervention.
I am supportive of Recommendation 7 about community audits and building a framework around that. We really need to understand what is going on each community. That is what I mean by a community-based approach or ‘place management’ as it is sometimes called, whereby agencies focus on individual communities which come together, work around those communities and look at the key things. Much of the time we look at individual parts of a community, but the most important thing in communities is people. We should look at the different groups of people: the children, the women, the men. We need to see how their life is from when they get up in the morning, the house they sleep in, what is in the fridge, where they go to school, what they do after school, all those things. We need to focus very sharply on those communities and then we can look at the problems of substance abuse and come back to why people are taking them. There is a degree of boredom, but there is also the element of their lives having not a great deal of meaning. We have to put meaning back into their lives.
Other areas of the report highlight removal of CDEP. Having been involved in a number of communities around Tennant Creek, with Julalikari Buramana when CDEP was not there, and then coming to Timber Creek with the Ngaliwurru-Wuli Association where CDEP was in place, people had a work ethic. They were involved in their community; they got up each morning and they were part of something. The removal of CDEP has created deep concerns, as has been said in this House before. I fear that, again, we are getting away from that sense of purpose, which is when drift into self-medication of whatever it may be that is available to them. I hope we do not lose CDEP. I hope there is a positive result in the federal election and we keep CDEP.
Mr Conlan: A Liberal win. Is that what you mean?
Mr KNIGHT: The member for Greatorex is perhaps not up to date. The CLP or Liberal Party, whatever they like to call themselves nowadays, is going to remove CDEP. That is their policy. They want to axe work for the dole and replace it with a work for the dole scheme. Yes, that is very positive, except the first work for the dole scheme is a community development program as well. That scheme develops a community, which is novel. A Rudd Labor federal government would reinstate and enhance CDEP, and that is what needs to happen. It needs to be improved and given a new focus. It has been around for 12 years and it needs more focus.
Other recommendations in the report were about housing. People must have adequate housing to live a normal life, to have somewhere to sleep, to have a home. There needs to be much more work done on remote housing and making it sustainable. At the moment, it is not sustainable. Everything is working against its sustainability. I am encouraged by the Housing minister, who has done a lot of work on this. He is someone who knows about indigenous housing and is working towards it.
The report deals with many aspects. In respect of education, I was delighted with the Closing the Gap initiative. This government committed $9.5m to preschool and early education, which was directly related to getting kids into school earlier by putting on more teachers. There were 26 additional teachers allocated for a total of $12m. There was a range of different buckets of money which went into education. That was serious recognition that more needed to be done in the bush, and it goes to what I said earlier about education being the core of it.
In respect of alcohol and other drugs, we need more scrutiny of liquor outlets. In Closing the Gap, eight additional Alcohol Compliance Inspectors were put on. There was $3.7m allocated to the licensing identification system, which I mentioned earlier, for introduction in Katherine, and I am lobbying strongly for the minister to introduce it across sections of my electorate in the Timber Creek area, and the Daly and Port Keats areas, where it would be valuable. Those communities want it and I hope we get that happening. There is also an extra $2.5m in regional alcohol management strategies.
It is good to see that money has gone into those areas which reflect the recommendations of the Little Children are Sacred report, and major changes to the Liquor Act providing for dry areas, which commenced in Alice Springs in August.
I thank my colleagues. This is a good body of work. We all got a great deal out of it. All of us have visited communities which we had not visited before, and that is always a good thing. It gives you a perspective on issues around the place, and a degree of hope. We can always learn something new.
I thank the committee staff who assisted with the report; they were as inspired and as educated as we were by the places we visited. I thank Pat Hancock, Brian Lloyd and Kellie Trout for their work. The committee could not operate without them.
I congratulate the Chair and other committee members for the production of this report. I hope it is taken on board by government. Much work has already been done and money allocated within the Closing the Gap strategy. This is a battle that we have to fight every single day.
I make the point that we need to fight the root cause. We can chase after bushfires every single day and we will never get there. An analogy is that you have someone that has an infection. We can put a bandaid on that infection for as long as we like, but it will keep costing us money. We have to apply some antibiotics to the victim of these problems to really cure it from the inside. That is our challenge as parliamentarians and I am totally committed to it. Madam Speaker, I commend the report to the House.
Mrs BRAHAM (Braitling): Madam Speaker, Confronting the Confusion and Disconnection is a strong and very challenging report. The title says it all. There is confusion in communities and there is a lot of disconnection with families and community groups. This report is about confronting it. I hope government takes notice of this report because it is probably one of the strongest I have read. It is honest, up-front, provides all the evidence to back what it says, and it clearly illustrates the distress occurring in some communities.
I congratulate the Chair on her tabling statement this morning. It was very sincere. I know she has agonised for quite a while about bringing this into the House, and whether it will be accepted by government because it is, in some cases, quite critical of government. Anything that is critical of government leads to uncertainty about whether it will be dismissed and nothing will result from it. For instance, I am alarmed that today, in the face of such a strong report from a committee, the Minister for Alcohol Policy will be delivering a statement. It is almost as though it is trying to take the limelight away from the report, water down some of the recommendations and distract attention from the recommendations. I will be speaking on the statement when we get to it.
Committee work is hard work. I do not always feel comfortable working on committees, particularly when we go out to hear evidence. When you go into communities, people come to you with their hearts on their sleeves and tell it as it is. They tell you their expectations, their dilemmas, their problems and what they want. You sit there knowing darn well you cannot promise them anything. No matter how many reports we write and how many recommendations we make, we cannot promise them that anything will happen. It is entirely up to government to do that.
I hope the government will take on board some of these recommendations and respond to them because the people we spoke to were clearly expecting us to deliver. They were sitting there, telling it as they felt, opening up their hearts and then asking: ‘What can you do for us? We have told this story so many times to so many committees and nothing has been done.’ That is the sad part for the people who have to suffer every day and deal with these problems. They have said it to Commonwealth committees, to our committees, to whomever, but they do not feel as though their words are being listened to. They do not feel they are ever achieving what they want. I say to government: even if you feel uncomfortable with some of the recommendations in this report, take them seriously. It is an honest report and it deserves a positive response from government.
There are some strong recommendations and some of them stick out more clearly than others. I will not go through a lot of the scenarios you have heard from other speakers, but there seems to me to be a real need for immediate cooperation between government agencies and the non-government sector and all these programs out there. It is not as though there is not anything happening out there. There is, but it is often little people doing little things on their own. Those little people need the support of the big people, the government.
Too often, we see government agencies converging on communities. As one of them said, ‘We had five different agencies yesterday.’ The five different agencies did not know each other was going. They all talked to different people on the communities, roared out and roared back into town. There does not seem to be the cooperation needed to bring it all together. As much goodwill as there is in government agencies and non-government organisations, it is not going to work unless we have a coordinated approach, and that is what I ask government to do. Make sure a policy applies across government agencies and that they work together. It is too easy to do your own thing in your own agency without knowing what goes on elsewhere. That is one of the big recommendations of this report. There really is that need.
One of the more important recommendations is reform of the funding process. What is needed is not the short-term grants process that we have at the moment. We have some very good programs for working with children and young people, but they do not know from year to year whether they will be funded. We have seen that over and over again, not just in substance abuse but in many other areas. What they were saying clearly to us is that they could better plan and consolidate if they had some sort of guaranteed funding.
It takes hours for some of these organisations to write an application, and for what? I say to government: please look at the funding process. Perhaps you could make it for the term of government, which is four years, rather than an annual application. Perhaps you could give them some sort of security to employ that extra person, so they can take on an extra program to make it work. It is not only in this report; you will find comments about the process of securing funding being so difficult.
I do not know how many times I write support letters for people who are applying for grants from all sorts of organisations so that a program can be continued. It seems to me that we need security of funding, particularly for people in remote communities who are doing such good work. So government, please take note of that. It really needs to be done.
Government is doing some good things. We recognise that there are some very good things. The last Substance Abuse committee resulted in the Volatile Substance Abuse Prevention Act and some of those programs are working. In Alice Springs I have seen very little evidence of petrol sniffing over the last six months, whereas before you could see it up in Billy Goat Hill, out in the camps and in different pockets of the town. Government has addressed petrol sniffing in a positive way and the rehab centres that have been established are working and the introduction of Opal is working.
There are good things happening, but, as we often hear the Chief Minister say, there is more to be done. On the issue of petrol sniffing, I say this to the minister for Education: we really need to ensure there is an ongoing education process in our schools. We know the disadvantages of sniffing petrol, but kids in communities see it as part of every day life. It becomes the norm for them and they do not understand it is not normal, but dangerous. Schools have a very strong part to play in making sure young children coming through the system know the dangers of petrol sniffing or any sort of substance abuse. It can be put into the curriculum in health and is something we need to consider seriously. We should continue the support of police resources. We all know police do a great job. They need support in other areas because no matter how many police you have, we always seem to have problems.
One of the strong recommendations to come out of this was also in the government’s Alcohol Framework of July 2004. There needs to be identifiable revenue raised from specific resources and dedicated to harm reduction and preventative measures. We had, once, the levy associated with the Living with Alcohol program. We know we cannot impose that levy now, but this report strongly recommends that the Northern Territory government should take the lead in working with the states to seek Commonwealth agreement to identify where this revenue could come from and ensure it goes into programs for harm reduction. That is a very good recommendation. I say to government: your minister should start talking to the states and see how you can identify this revenue. We cannot call it a tax or a levy, but start speaking to the Commonwealth to see if we can find a way to get around the problem we are facing at the moment from the High Court decision so that we can have funding specific to these programs. If we have that, as we did in the past, we would not have the problem we have now.
Another recommendation flows from the Alcohol Framework. The report deals with the Office of Alcohol Policy and the matter of coordination. The report is critical that the office was basically dissolved. The framework said you should have an Office of Alcohol Policy directly responsible to the Chief Minister because they felt if that were so, the Chief Minister’s could at least heighten awareness. It would give it importance and raise its status. Unfortunately, that has not happened. It has gone to the Minister for Health, who may correct me later, or the Minister for Alcohol Policy. We need to make sure we do not have these programs split across government. We need one department leading the charge, making sure we get through the coordination and policy that we really need.
We looked at some very good programs and services. I did not go on the Top End visits, but in the southern end of the Territory, as the member for Daly said, the difference in the east and west communities is quite obvious in Central Australia. Even though some of the communities on the east side have their act so much more together, there are still things that can be done. I remember the Harts Range community said: ‘This is our basketball court. The lights go out at 8.30 pm. The whistle is blown and all the kids know they should go home to bed’. Wouldn’t it be nice if we had some decent sporting facilities?
What is obvious is that if you have good recreational activities not just for kids but all the community, it gives people something worthwhile to do and raises their self-esteem, rather than have them wander around the community not sure what to do or wandering into town getting into trouble. I do not think we put enough emphasis on recreation. I do not think we realise the importance of making sure people are busy and occupied. If they are unemployed, if they are not going to school, as sure as eggs they are going to get into mischief. We had wonderful examples of where there are good recreational programs and Docker River is one. They have a male and a female Recreation Officer, so that culturally, they relate to each other in a far better way. They do amazing things with their young people and adults. For a long time, we have only funded one recreational officer on communities, but what commonsense it is to have two, one of each gender. It is simple, but it requires additional funding.
We should put more emphasis on recreation. If it is properly resourced, it can bring results because it provides alternatives to getting drunk or getting on the drugs. I say to the government: that is one of the most important recommendations. It should be about preventing rather than fixing. I know we talk about rehabilitation programs, but let us start saying to each other, how can we prevent this happening? We can prevent it by making sure life is better on communities.
There are very good programs. For example, we went to Barry Abbott’s camp. He told us about the things he does with his young people. There is success story after success story from his program. We should not have to reinvent the wheel on these programs. We have problems at the moment in Alice Springs with some of our juveniles. Why don’t we give them guaranteed funding so that they can expand and take on some of these other problems? They have done it for so many years, they know how to make it work and they are producing good results. Let us acknowledge them. We are so busy looking at other things that we do not acknowledge the successful programs and use them even more than they are used at present. The goodwill and experience are there. Let us utilise them so we have better value for money and ensure we have programs that we know will succeed.
Again, it comes back to giving them long-term funding rather than short-term, and give them opportunities to train their people, make sure they have accommodation and the right infrastructure for people. All these things kept cropping up over and over again. We need to ensure that existing programs have the right support.
The member for Daly talked about housing, which crops up all the time. I hope that with the federal intervention, we will see a lot more housing on communities. Most of all, we need to target indigenous trained people, give them decent accommodation so that they can maintain a lifestyle to continue their jobs. That is one of the important things the report says.
The report comments on other areas, such as health, employment, education and recreation. I do not intend to go through all the different recommendations, but I hope every member of this parliament reads them. This is certainly a report worth reading.
How can we make life better on communities? Why do we find that we have people turning to substance abuse? Do we ask ourselves that enough? Why are they doing it? How can we prevent them doing it? Do we always have to say this is what we are going to do to fix the problem once it is over, or to help the person? You mentioned that victims are caught up in this cycle and it is very hard to break it. We need new vision and not just: ‘Okay, we will put in another rehabilitation program’. We need to ask: how can we prevent it from happening? That is the big challenge for this government. It is a challenge for all governments to ensure that we can make life better so that people do not feel they have to rely on drugs and alcohol to get through their day. How sad is it that you have to rely on them because your life is so empty.
I do not intend to talk much further about this report, which is very good. I will talk on the alcohol statement later, rather than dwell on it now.
I was impressed by the level of debate in the committee. Everyone did not always agree but, interestingly enough at the end of the day, we were prepared to accept a report that is controversial. I am sure that government members sometimes might have felt they were sticking their necks out a little, but that is what is good about having a committee working together. There was no dissenting member on the report, which is to the credit of all members who worked so hard on it. I thank the Chair because I know she is passionate about it, and I thank other members of the committee.
I want to pay tribute to the Secretariat staff who have gone over the report again and again. Whenever I have phoned and said: ‘I do not like this, can you change it?’, they have taken on all the innuendos and the corrections that we have worked through together. It is a report that has been compiled by everyone, and I commend it to members.
Ms SACILOTTO (Port Darwin): Mr Deputy Speaker, we have heard from my colleague, the Chair of select committee, about the challenges we face on substance abuse on remote communities and the good things we have: strong people and good programs. They show us the way and how to work to improve things as they stand. I want to add to that picture by highlighting further the good things we found when we talked to people in communities.
As our Chair, the member for Macdonnell, pointed out, we cannot let ourselves be stumped by thinking of difficulties alone. It is no exaggeration to say that the people we met and the stories they told are little short of inspirational. Their strength and clarity of vision, their awareness of what to do and how to do it, are an example. They do good things, get results, and change people’s lives. There is a lot of just being there, following through, staying in contact, reducing harm. Their level of compassion and concern is remarkable. On a daily basis, they weigh up resources, risks, opportunities and cultural factors. Somehow, they keep it all going, all in balance, and that is no mean feat. On our two trips, we heard about many communities where this was happening.
In Docker River, the community had taken a bad situation and turned it around, putting in programs and getting healthy; leadership programs where youth help their peers and take on responsibility are a part of this, which is an important investment in the future. We also saw this at Mt Theo, one of the shining lights of community-based responses to substance abuse. We saw a similar approach emphasising personal responsibility, skills and time on country when we spoke to Barry Abbott at Harts Range.
At the Larapinta Learning Centre, we heard about how people faced difficult conditions and responded by developing new ways to involve the community in solutions with a dramatically positive effect. In Alice Springs, we heard about DASA’s work and huge contribution to keeping people safe and guiding them towards getting off the grog, and the valuable work of CAYLUS in providing strategic and coordinating capacity.
In the Top End, too, we heard positive stories about Groote Eylandt communities choosing together to have less to drink so they can keep safe and spend more time on more productive things. It was great to see local people, as a result, getting more work at the mine. This highlighted the benefits of employment and of companies being ready to come to the table and work with communities. As a committee, we all felt this underscores the importance of employment in countering substance abuse. These are just a few highlights from what I heard in communities. Everywhere we went, we heard from people committed to making things better.
Council and police at Alyangula made a major contribution to reducing alcohol on the island. At Angurugu, we saw good practice in dealing with substance abuse clients. At Umbakumba, there were reductions in alcohol and good school attendance. At Bickerton and Groote Eylandt, there were combined work and rehab programs to get people on their feet. On the Gove Peninsula, there were community initiatives to counter the effects of alcohol. It gives quite a different perspective to what is portrayed in the media. At the time we visited Wadeye, for example, there was intense media interest about violence there, but being in the community, you could be struck by how many people there were who were doing good things to support the community. Black and white people from Makura Wunthay Alcohol Awareness, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School and the health clinic made a big impression on us. They showed us what is at stake and the strength and resolve they bring to their work. We came away with a mix of feelings, concerned and encouraged.
It was obvious that Opal has really stopped petrol sniffing in its tracks. The terrible stories we heard about rampant sniffing are not likely to be repeated as long as we keep a lid on the black market supply, but ganja and alcohol are really big problems. This takes us back to the importance of the positive side of the ledger, the good ways to tackle these things. This is not rocket science. Time and again the committee has been told that the basic combination of the demand and supply reduction and rehabilitation together with giving local people a genuine stake in their own affairs and cultural sensitivity and insight is something that works. As a committee, we heard this many times.
We met all sorts of people who are working in this positive direction from people working in established programs through to family elders who on some occasions did not have much more than an idea and a hope that they could get their kin to an outstation so that they could straighten out. Often, there is a lot of making do, even from the established programs which started, after all, on nothing more that the goodwill of one or two people and grew from there. Even within those constraints, these people keep working, seeing the opportunity, looking out for others, and it gets to a point in many communities where there is enough of this to make things turn over. Then substance abuse stops being the norm and starts being something unusual, something a little uncool, something youth do not wanted to be associated with. That is the goal.
Mr Deputy Speaker, every life you take out of the hands of substance abuse is another one on the side of more positive behaviour. Everyone counts. It is interesting to think about the fundamentals of how you go about guiding people toward behaviour that does less harm and gets them doing positive things. The basic principles are reward the good, limit the bad, and let people experience the consequences of both. This is what people at Mt Theo told us about their carrot and stick approach where young people got to go to the local disco or, if they dip into substances, they go to the outstation for some time out. The fact that there is something positive to offer as an incentive, that these kids are really disappointed when they cannot get to the disco, is really important in giving them a reference point.
You can think of this as a kind of parable of the inquiry. Another way to say the same thing is that, as the committee was told, if you can put into a community supply reduction, rehabilitation and a decent recreation program, it really does result in a substantial reduction in substance abuse. It becomes a kind of structure that makes harm less likely and good things more likely.
It is only natural that this should be the case. We all respond to positive and negative cues in behaviour, and if we are lucky, black or white, we grow up in an environment where we have these signals and get the feel of what it is like to do the right or the wrong thing. That is how people develop and become good contributors to society. At times we fall into the error of thinking that these things apply more to remote communities than they do elsewhere. That is a mistake. At root, the basic principles are the same. It relies on a structure being around a person, sending the right signals. It does not just apply to remote communities, but to all communities.
We have a fantastic base of people who know what to do, how to do it and who are committed to making it happen. We also know that it needs to happen. Things cannot go on the way they have for the last 40 years. The challenge for us is we can add to what they are doing, enable them and really let them get on with it. We can and must if we are going to keep the Territory viable, developing and making the most of our people into the future.
The recommendations of the committee are solid and very strong. I am proud to have been a member of this committee, which has worked in a truly bipartisan manner. Every one of us has a genuine concern for the people we are talking to and are involved with, and we want to see things change. That is why we ask, as a committee, that government take note of our recommendations and seriously consider putting them into action.
I commend the committee members: the members for Katherine, Blain, Braitling, Daly and especially the member for Macdonnell, our Chair. It has been an interesting committee and we are an interesting mix. The member for Macdonnell has certainly opened my eyes to life on communities and the troubles and challenges that people face on a daily and nightly basis, and for that I thank the member for Macdonnell because it is something that we all need to know and understanding that life is not as we have in our cocoon. We need to experience other people’s lives, even if it is momentary.
I thank the committee secretariat, Ms Pat Hancock, Dr Brian Lloyd, Kellie Trout and Kim Cowcher. The member for Daly said that they are a great part of the success of this committee. I say they are more than that; they are the backbone of the committee and without those people, it would all fall down.
Debate adjourned.
Mr McADAM (Local Government): Mr Deputy Speaker, earlier in Question Time the Mines and Energy Minister was asked about the manner in which mining interests would be dealt with under the new local government arrangements.
I picked up the tail end of that question, and would like to take the opportunity to correct the record and more fully inform the Assembly of details of the new local government arrangements which apply to mining interests.
I can confirm mining exploration licences will be exempt from rates. Existing mineral leases will be rated and, specific to the question from the member for Katherine to the Minister for Mines and Energy, in respect of ERA and Alcan at Nhulunbuy, it is intended that guidelines will be established in relation to rating mineral leases, including the leases held by ERA for the Ranger Mine and the Alcan Mine at Nhulunbuy.
Mr STIRLING (Treasurer): Mr Deputy Speaker, in accordance with section 9 of the Financial Management Act, I am pleased to table the 2006-07 Treasurer’s Annual Financial Statement.
The statement forms part of the 2006-07 Treasurer’s Annual Financial Report and presents the Territory’s fiscal performance for that year. The report satisfies the requirements of the final fiscal results report as set out in the Fiscal Integrity and Transparency Act.
In addition, the unaudited section provides a summary of the financial performance of agencies and Government Business Divisions for 2006-07. The highlights of the 2006-07 Treasurer’s Annual Financial Report are:
all key fiscal aggregates improved on those estimated in both May 2006 and May 2007;
when measured as a percentage to revenue for the non-financial public sector, both nett debt at 39% and nett debt plus employee liabilities at 106% are the lowest levels since 2001-02; and
Mr Deputy Speaker, I turn in more detail to the outcomes of the 2006-07 financial year. The 2006-07 outcome of a $33m cash surplus is $89m higher than budgeted in May 2006, and $44m higher than the revised estimate published in the May 2007 Budget. This is now the fifth year in succession that a cash surplus has been recorded and it continues to ease the debt burden inherited by this government.
The improved cash position since budget time was a result of a $267m increase in operating receipts being only partially offset by increased spending of $178m. The $267m increase in operating receipts was predominantly due to:
$48m additional GST revenue, following the increase in the Territory’s population estimate arising from the 2006 Census - thank you, ABS - together with a small increase in the national GST pool available for distribution;
This resulted in additional receipts of $41m, largely matched by additional payments. It is worth noting that the 2005-06 comparative numbers in this report have been restated to reflect Territory Housing’s sector change for comparability purposes.
Total operational and net capital spending payments were $178m higher due to:
new and expanded initiatives across government of $40m;
I turn to the 2006-07 accrual outcomes. The operating surplus of $143m and fiscal balance of $62m are both significant improvements on that budgeted. The fiscal balance presents a more complete picture of government spending as, like the cash income, it incorporates the effects of both capital and operational transactions. Accordingly, all governments strive for a significant positive operating result as this provides the capacity for investment in capital infrastructure in the general government sector without the need for additional borrowing.
The fiscal balance surplus of $62m was a $167m improvement on the May 2006 Budget and $133m improvement on the May 2007 revised estimate. This was predominantly a result of the improved operating result and the change in timing of capital spending. Both the improved nett operating balance and fiscal balance outcomes suggest that the government’s fiscal target of a sustainable balance by 2012-13 remain achievable. This is despite record levels of capital investment in 2006-07 and projected for 2007-08.
Capital investment plays a central role in the government’s budget strategy as it is essential for the delivery of government services and contributes to the economic development of the Territory. In 2006-07 capital spending, including the Power and Water Corporation capital grants, was a record $567m, an increase of $75m from 2005-06. This increased expenditure predominantly relates to improved education and housing infrastructure, together with the planned increase spending in relation to the Darwin waterfront. This record level of investment is set to continue in 2007-08.
While general government is the appropriate sector to focus on for the operating and cash flow statements, the non-financial public sector is the focus for analysis of the balance sheet; that is, the Territory’s assets and liabilities.
I now turn to the balance sheet outcomes for the non-financial public sector. Nett debt of $1413m in 2006-07 has reduced by $181m since 2005-06. It is now at its lowest level since the high point $1743m in 2001-02. When measured as a percentage to revenue, the 2006 outcome of 39% represents a 9% reduction on the 48% recorded in 2005-06, and a 28% reduction on 2001-02 levels. This improvement directly results from this government’s deficit and debt reduction strategy that was embarked on following our election in 2001. This has culminated in five successive cash surpluses and record low levels of nett debt.
Unlike nett debt, nett debt plus employee liabilities is affected by the upward movement of the Territory’s superannuation liability that has occurred over the past two years, increasing the pressure on the Territory’s overall liabilities. Accordingly, in the May 2007 Budget, this government announced that it would contribute additional amounts towards the Territory’s ongoing superannuation liabilities to reduce this burden on future budgets. As indicated earlier, this government has been able to contribute $150m in 2006-07 for this purpose. The 2006-07 nett debt plus employee liabilities was $3908m, an increase on the 2005-06 outcome of $155m, predominantly as a result of the increase in the Commonwealth’s superannuation scheme as reported in the May 2007 Budget. However, when measured as a percentage of total revenue, the 2006-07 outcome of 106% represents a significant reduction on both the 112% recorded in 2005-06 and the 134% recorded at 30 June 2002. These improvements will flow through to the forward estimates to be reported in the 2007-08 Mid-Year Report. It also demonstrates that this government’s target of nett debt and employee liabilities to revenue to reduce over time has been achieved. This is, again, a testament to the fiscal responsibility of this government.
The Auditor-General has issued his usual two-part audit opinion on the financial statements with the technical qualification still existing in relation to compliance with Australian Accounting Standards, as has been the case since 1999. The Territory continues to comply with the Uniform Presentation Framework as required of all jurisdictions rather than the Australian Accounting Standards. Work is now significantly advanced nationally to merge Uniform Presentation Framework and Australian Accounting Standards with the likelihood that the new merged formats will be applied from 2008-09. Until then, that technical qualification will remain.
Honourable members may recall that in 2005-06, the Auditor-General also issued an audit qualification on the carrying value of utility assets held by the Power and Water Corporation that flowed through to the Treasurer’s Annual Financial Report. I am pleased to report that for 2006-07, the issue has been resolved following a write down in water and sewage assets of $146m by the Power and Water Corporation. Accordingly, although a technical flow-through qualification from 2005-06 still exists in the books of the Power and Water Corporation, in relation to comparative numbers, this flow-through qualification will be removed completely.
In conclusion, 2006-07 represents an extremely positive outcome. The Territory has continued its trend towards achieving the medium-term fiscal objectives and targets as set out in the fiscal strategy. The cash outcome of a $33m surplus in 2006-07 is the fifth year in succession a surplus has been recorded, largely accounting for the significant improvement in nett debt and nett debt plus employee liabilities. This is despite record levels of investment in the Territory’s infrastructure base and an increase in valuation of the Territory’s superannuation liabilities as reported in May 2007. Both the accrual operating result and fiscal balance results are in surplus representing significant improvements on both the May 2006 and May 2007 estimates.
The 2006-07 outcome shows the government is committed to managing the Territory’s finances responsibly while maintaining an appropriate balance between community and economic needs and maintaining a sound fiscal position.
Mr Deputy Speaker, I table the 2006-07 Treasurer’s Annual Financial Report and commend it to the House. I move that the Assembly take note of the report and that leave be granted to continue my remarks at a later hour.
Leave granted.
Debate adjourned.
Dr BURNS (Alcohol Policy): Mr Deputy Speaker, today I talk about the progress of the government’s alcohol reforms. This is my first statement to the House since becoming Alcohol Policy Minister on 7 August. The creation of this new portfolio serves to highlight the Martin Labor government’s focus on this most important area of public policy.
Most of us enjoy a drink with family and friends, and, used sensibly, there is no doubt that alcohol is an important part of our lives, the Territory’s lifestyle and our economy. However, we have to be honest and acknowledge the Territory has historically had a bad, and at times tragic, record in relation to harmful levels of alcohol consumption. This was most recently reaffirmed in the Little Children are Sacred report. Among other things the report noted:
The report further noted:
As part of our way forward to bridging the gap between Aboriginal Territorians and the rest of the Territory, we will spend an extra $10.1m on alcohol and drug initiatives to give our alcohol management efforts more muscle. We also have to be honest and acknowledge that it is not just Aboriginal Territorians who suffer from the effects of harmfully high levels of alcohol consumption. The excessive consumption of alcohol is affecting men, women and children right across the Territory regardless of ethnicity and income levels. Our responses to alcohol-related problems must acknowledge the universality of the problem confronting the Northern Territory.
I want to stress, though, that I am not suggesting we in the Territory should become a bunch of wowsers. We should continue to enjoy the many positive aspects of alcohol, but we have to do more to develop strategies to reduce the number of Territorians who are drinking at unsafe levels.
Let us look at some of the facts. The Northern Territory continues to have the highest per capita level of alcohol consumption in the country, and we suffer unacceptably high levels of related harm, antisocial behaviour, community disruption and personal misery as a result. Pure alcohol consumption in the Territory was 17.3 litres per adult in 2005-06 compared with the national average of 10 litres per adult. The Katherine region has the highest per capita consumption in the Territory at more than 20 litres of pure alcohol for every adult. The Top End average at 17.3 litres per adult is the same as the Territory average. Average alcohol consumption in Central Australia is 16.2 litres per adult and in the Barkly region, the average is 14.7 litres.
In short, even at best, the lowest regional alcohol consumption figures are well above the national average. The cost in both human and financial terms of this level of drinking demands that we address this situation as a matter of the highest priority. Since the release of the Alcohol Framework in late 2004, the Martin government has progressively implemented a range of initiatives and developed further innovative measures to reduce alcohol related harm across the Territory.
I would like to highlight some of these developments. In addition to contributing in the development and coordination of policies and programs in the area of alcohol, my department is also responsible for the development of individual alcohol management plans across the Territory. This broad-based engagement assists the targeting and efficient use of resources, maximises opportunities for action and capitalises on a broad range of expertise in formulating strategies. This cooperation is the base on which alcohol management plans are being developed. These plans are the key to the government’s approach of looking for local solutions to local problems.
This flexible approach acknowledges that the Territory is made up of distinct regions with unique demographic and social circumstances and as such, alcohol-related problems will differ across communities. This government recognises that while the Territory population might be small, it is a diverse jurisdiction. That means that we cannot succeed in efforts to attack our culture of alcohol with a one-size-fits-all approach. There are two keys to success. Plans to address alcohol problems must be tailored specifically for the region or town in which they will apply and these solutions must be arrived at by way of extensive community consultation.
Our experience with Groote Eylandt exemplifies exactly that. There has been a dramatic reduction in alcohol-related problems following the introduction of a permit system that allows takeaway sales to be monitored and managed. The Groote Eylandt system was introduced following negotiation with local communities. A recent evaluation by the Menzies School of Health Research found the system on Groote Eylandt had resulted in 75% fewer cases of public drunkenness; a decline in apprehensions without arrest from 90 to 11; 52% less property crime; a 60% reduction in incidents of disturbance; a 67% drop in the number of police call-outs for aggravated assault; and absenteeism for indigenous employees at the GEMCO mine dropped from 7.8% to 2.4%. Admittedly, Groote Eylandt is a small island community with limited access to takeaway alcohol. Even so, these results are impressive and exemplify the kind of gains that can be made through community and government partnerships.
Alice Springs was the first place to have an Alcohol Management Plan. While a formal evaluation will commence shortly, unofficial reports indicate success in terms of a variety of indicators. Available data indicates there has been a 10% decrease in takeaway alcohol sales in Alice Springs. It also shows a 14% decline in crimes against people; a 40% decrease in admissions to the sobering-up shelter; 21% fewer admissions to treatment services for alcohol problems; and an overall reduction in the number of admissions to Alice Springs Hospital for alcohol-related conditions.
These results are a credit to the comprehensive and cooperative approach taken by a range of government, non-government, private and community stakeholders involved with the plan. Whilst these are impressive results we recognise we still have much more work to do in Alice Springs to ensure significant and sustainable results.
Other alcohol management plans are in various stages of development. A plan was adopted for Katherine in July 2007 and plans are now being finalised for Tennant Creek and Palmerston. Developmental work is occurring in West Arnhem and Timber Creek, which should see plans in place by the end of the year.
As other communities identify issues, further plans may be developed in the future and this government is committed to provide support for those plans so that they are effective and achievable.
Alcohol management plans are dynamic and evolving, so they continue to remain relevant to changing circumstances. In this context, it is worth noting that Alice Springs has recently become the first urban centre in the Territory to take advantage of legislation which prohibits drinking in all public places. This is an added strategy which was not available when the plan was first adopted. Anecdotal reports indicate that this new strategy has been highly successful in removing many alcohol problems from the streets of Alice Springs. In light of this experience, it is probably not surprising that other councils are also seeking declarations as dry areas. Applications are currently being considered for Katherine and Gove Peninsula, and applications have been made by Mataranka and for some suburbs around Darwin. This government has committed a further $2.5m over the next five years in order to continue to roll out alcohol management plans.
Other innovative legislation introduced by this government has allowed private residences to be declared dry. To date, there have been 278 applications to have alcohol banned from households, with 214 declarations actually in force. This measure ensures people can have respite by making their homes free of alcohol.
This government has also legislated for the operation of Alcohol Courts as a means of being able to divert offenders to treatment services. These courts and associated assessment, referral and counselling services are now available to Alice Springs and Darwin. Some 80 referrals have been made to these courts, with two-thirds of those referred entering treatment. This option gives offenders an opportunity to break their cycle of alcohol abuse. We have also committed to expanding the Alcohol Court to Katherine, Tennant Creek and Nhulunbuy.
While I have highlighted outcomes from unprecedented legislation introduced by this government last year as part of its ongoing commitment to combating alcohol issues, I would like to mention amendments made to the Liquor Act at the last sitting of parliament. Those amendments allow the Licensing minister to take a range of actions including:
the imposition of special conditions on liquor outlets;
These changes will enable rapid action to be taken when circumstances dictate so problems can be dealt with quickly when issues are most pressing. They also complement the measures being imposed as part of the Commonwealth government’s emergency intervention in the Northern Territory.
Honourable members will be aware that the Martin government is committed to closely working with the Australian government in relation to any measures which will have a positive impact in reducing grog running and the resultant alcohol and child abuse on Aboriginal communities. However, the rushed nature of the Commonwealth legislation has produced some anomalies, which the Territory government wants to see reversed.
We continue to oppose the requirement under federal law which now makes Territorians the only people in Australia who have to provide personal details at bottle shops when buying $100 or more worth of takeaway alcohol. We have opposed the laws which prevented anyone but those in organised tour groups from enjoying a drink at national parks on Aboriginal land. Fortunately, the federal minister has responded positively to our approaches on this matter, although his change of heart last week has not addressed this impediment completely.
Finally, legal advice I have received indicates that Territorians are still at risk of breaking Commonwealth law if they drink alcohol while fishing on many popular waterways across the Northern Territory, but there are positive benefits in relation to alcohol matters associated with the federal government’s intervention. While the Territory government has made more money available for licensing inspectors, the Australian government has done the same and they are to be complimented for this.
Amendments to the Liquor Act and the resulting declaration of Alice Springs town camps as dry areas also illustrates our willingness to work with the Australian government to achieve real outcomes to address alcohol abuse. As part of our cooperation with the Australian government, the last few months have demanded ongoing discussion, clarification and refinement about measures to be taken. The Northern Territory government will continue this high degree of cooperation as a way of ensuring initiatives are appropriate, properly targeted and well informed.
We are also in the process of a complete rewrite of the Northern Territory Liquor Act. The new act will enable the government to place greater emphasis on addressing antisocial behaviour through provisions concerning the responsible supply of liquor, and more integrated approaches to restricted areas. Parliamentary Counsel has produced the first draft of the new act and, following consideration by government agencies, it is intended that the draft act will be released for public comment for a period of three months. Depending on progress with the community and industry consultations, it is intended to introduce the new act in the Northern Territory parliament within the next six months.
The new act will be fundamental for setting up how the Territory goes about managing the responsible promotion, supply and consumption of alcohol for years to come. The government sees the act as a critical tool in its fight against alcohol misuse and abuse and regards the rewrite as a priority. I will say more about the new act at a later date.
The last 12 months have also seen significant progress on a watershed innovation that is being proposed for the East Arnhem region. This initiative centres on a computer-based permit system which will require people to produce a permit to obtain takeaway liquor. All retail outlets in the regions will be electronically linked, so that people can be identified and their purchases can be tracked. The Licensing Commission gave in-principle support to this system in August 2006, and extensive work has followed to deal with the various practical, legal, policy and ethical issues.
Unfortunately, the recent declaration of East Arnhem as a prescribed area by the Commonwealth government has introduced a late complication which will require further analysis and attention. This will delay any final decision to be made by the Licensing Commission. This system will enable limits to be set on the takeaway liquor that people can purchase, and it will allow proper enforcement and management of those limits. This is an exciting development because of its potential for effectively controlling individual access to alcohol. Unlike the federal government’s $100-plus takeaway law, which is applied across the board, the proposed electronic ID system will target problem drinkers. It will not pose the same privacy issues associated with the hand-written ledgers the federal government requires as part of the $100-plus takeaway law.
Clearly, those who are at greater risk of harming themselves or others because of their alcohol consumption must be primary candidates for the imposition of severe restrictions. If the proposal is accepted, close attention will need to be given to how the system is implemented and the outcomes it achieves. This experience will be important for determining whether the concept might be applied more broadly. The impetus for the introduction of this system came from the experience of Groote Eylandt, where, as I have already noted, there has been great success. We have committed a further $3.77m over the next five years to roll out an identification system in regional and remote takeaway outlets.
Another area of strategic development I would like to highlight is the development of Liquor Accords. These are voluntary agreements between licensees aimed at improving patron care both on and or around their premises. Accords have gained increasing popularity in other jurisdictions, and I have endorsed a framework of action that will assist the development and maintenance of accords as viable strategies for the Territory. Accords are valuable, as they allow licensees to become more active in helping to solve alcohol-related problems for the good of their local communities.
Finally, I would like to comment on the path to sustainable change in the long-standing culture of big drinking that exists in the Northern Territory. It is recognised that knowledge and attitude that people have about drinking will determine social acceptance and, collectively, will reinforce particular patterns of drinking. New developments are now being looked at to address this link. Strategies are being explored, aimed at changing the way in which people think about alcohol, its place in daily life, how it is managed and valued, and how it is consumed. Given the entrenched cultural challenge confronting the Territory, we know our efforts will have to be properly targeted and long-term in nature. These strategies will include social marketing, community education and other persuasion techniques based on information and skill development.
Initiatives such as the Good Sports program, which works with clubs to break the nexus between drinking and sport and recreation, are now being put in place. At the same time, research is being undertaken across the Territory with various targeted groups to inform the development of a comprehensive communication plan that will deliver key messages through a variety of media and other channels. These activities will seek to ensure that Territorians have correct and useful information about alcohol and associated risks so that they can make informed choices about their drinking and develop attitudes in support of more responsible drinking patterns throughout the community.
We are going to spend some $1m over the next five years on alcohol education programs to help change the way people think about their drinking. I should also say that I am on the record in complimenting the former CLP government on their Living with Alcohol program. It was a successful program. It was, of course, funded by a levy on drinks containing more than 3% by volume of alcohol. Due to the legal effect of the High Court decision of 1997, the Northern Territory government was not able to continue with the levy. We should be reassessing the program to find out what aspects of it were successful and what elements lend themselves to further development and implementation in the current circumstances. It is important that we do not ignore the lessons of history.
As we move on, we have to remain open to all of the options. We must ensure our efforts in relation to alcohol are done with the greatest possible cooperation amongst government agencies. We certainly need to see the highest possible degree of coordination between key agencies like licensing, the Department of Justice, health and police. I have already mentioned that the Liquor Act is currently in the process of being redrafted. I believe we have to consider the prospect of having a greater emphasis on harm minimisation within the act. After all, it is the Liquor Act which informs public policy on the role and use of alcohol within our community.
As a former health researcher, I am very much attuned to the need for our agencies to have access to the best possible data. We have to consider the prospect of broadening the scope of the current indicators to ensure we get the most relevant information on alcohol-related harm across the Territory. We must continue to refine and redefine the kind of data we are able to access and this clearly requires our key agencies to be working more closely together.
Turning around the Territory’s culture of alcohol is not going to be easy. The current culture of alcohol in the Territory did not develop overnight, so changing our culture of alcohol will be a long-term proposition. Central to any success in this endeavour we will be changing the way in which alcohol is seen in Territory society. Apart from working towards a greater degree of cooperation across government agencies and arming them with the most relevant data, we also need to consider how we address issues like alcohol education for children in school, the nature and funding of alcohol advertising campaigns, early intervention programs for problem drinkers and empowering non-drinkers, particularly on Aboriginal communities, with information about the harmful affects of alcohol.
Through the leadership provided by the Martin government, Territorians are being afforded more options for addressing alcohol issues. Available data indicates that those options can be successful in reducing alcohol-related problems for individuals and the community at large. This government must continue to be innovative, to explore further options and to support good practice.
I will digress: the report that was handed down today by the Substance Abuse committee is innovative. It looks at approaches, and much of it is in accord with what the government is currently doing. I welcome the new ideas and some of the propositions put by the committee. I am sure others will speak to that, but I digress for the present and I might come back to it in my closing statement.
The developments I have already spoken about today illustrate the steps that have already been taken and the directions we need to consider as we continue to work towards reducing the harmful effects of alcohol in the community. We recognise, however, that the journey is likely to be long and difficult, and that government and all sectors of the community will need to work together to find sustainable solutions to the problem alcohol abuse in the Territory.
Mr Deputy Speaker, I commend this statement to honourable members. I move that the Assembly take note of the statement.
Ms CARNEY (Opposition Leader): Mr Deputy Speaker, I thank the minister for his statement. It is good that it follows on from the Substance Abuse report, which I have not read but, obviously, I will.
We do not usually welcome ministers digressing from ministerial statements, but to the extent that you did and the reason for it, minister, I thought, for what it is worth, that was entirely appropriate.
I do not propose to comment on everything in your statement, and I do not propose to embark on a bagging government routine. I genuinely believe that this government, which always sounds patronising, is well meaning in the sense that it is endeavouring to tackle the scourge of alcoholism in the Northern Territory community. I wish you well, no doubt in the same way that when you were in opposition you wished my predecessors well.
Unless, as the minister referred to it, ‘the culture of alcohol’ changes, this is going to continue to consume successive governments in the Northern Territory. It is a terribly serious issue in terms of long-term budgetary implications for the Territory: health, law and order, housing, other resources will be consumed by the effects of this problem.
We wish you well, minister. It is unprecedented in the sense that you are the first Minister for Alcohol Policy. I do not think people should read from that there were no alcohol policies in the past, either under this government or indeed previous governments. I am sure there have been, and all of us really do have an enormous obligation to keep chipping away.
I will go through some points that I wrote down earlier in no particular sequence. On the dry town issue in Alice Springs, early indications are very encouraging. We battle to try to get a little political space on whose idea it was and so on but, in the context of this debate, I do not think much swings on it because the early indications are encouraging.
Having said that, there was, I understand it, an increased police presence. That was from the mounted police who came down to assist with the early implementation. I am advised by constituents, and I have not seen so much of it myself, that after the dry town measures were introduced, it was almost like turning off a light switch. There were very obvious results. It has been two or three months since the declaration and the incidence of people being seen around town drinking is going up again. It is evidenced by two things: actually seeing people around town; and the litter. Many people were commenting to me that some of the litter seemed to disappear because people were not drinking in town and were not dropping their litter all over the place. That is encouraging.
The dry town status commenced in August, which is the middle of winter or thereabouts in Alice Springs, so the summer period will be very interesting. Any sensible analysis will have to compare this summer period with the next summer period. Having said that, and obviously there are long-term analyses required, in the context of the effects of alcohol in the Northern Territory, I do not think any politician should be too proud to say no idea is a bad idea. I have not been here as long as others, but we are at the point where we really have to try things.
When I initially discovered the concept of the dry town, not only as a politician, but as a citizen of Alice Springs, I was not rapt, but I looked into it some more, spoke to some people, and I was of the view that it was worth a go. I still hold that view. Let us continue to assess it. The critical thing will be for government and government agencies to respond to the peaks and troughs that are surely going to happen over the course of the next 12 months or so. What we do not want in Alice Springs – and I believe I can say with a fair degree of confidence there is a lot of community support behind it at the moment – is the peaks and troughs to create anger and distress to such a point where the mood of the town changes and most people are not supportive of it. That is not good for the community. At the moment, we are all riding on a spirit of good will, but we must ensure that we do not lose that good will.
Government does have a role to play in that, and of course I am talking about policing. It is critical, everything from communications to police on the ground, working with council, of course there are some obvious links there, and the health sector. I ask you, minister, to continue to watch that. I am not too precious to approach you, even privately, if I detect that the mood has changed because all of us will be affected by it, so let us see what we can do to capitalise on that spirit of good will.
In relation to the Alice Springs Alcohol Framework, my colleague, the member for Katherine, will be talking about this and an overall policy framework in a bit more detail. It is a difficult one, and I appreciate it is difficult for government. On the one hand, we have quite different regions and different communities in the Territory, and there is a good argument that certain regions and communities should be allowed the flexibility to do things differently from someone else. At the same time, it is our view that there should be an overarching alcohol policy for all of the Territory, but that it have flexible aspects to it so that there are some fundamentals, if you like. We are one Territory, but a policy needs to be flexible enough to ensure that the needs and demands of various communities are met.
In terms of Alice Springs, minister, you mentioned a number of indicators in terms of the dry town. You mentioned hospital admissions and admissions to sobering-up shelters and so on. I believe I have asked you, either in the parliament or outside in some forum, to provide details. It was not in your statement, but I would be very grateful if you would confirm what the figures are for hospital admissions, noting the difference between men and women. I understand that the figures for men being admitted to hospital have gone down, but that the admission figures for women have not. We need to be very careful about this because if women, who are so often victims of violence from drunk or sober men, but in Alice Springs so many of them are victims of men who are drunk, if those figures have not gone down, then we have a problem. I am not sure that the minister would have those figures at his fingertips, but I would be grateful if he would provide them to me, either in his response or at some point in the future. Of course, if the figure for men being admitted has gone down and women has not, then we need to look into that and work out, if we can, a solution.
The Chief Minister was in Alice Springs at a forum several months ago. I attended that forum. Some of us were very surprised. As a local member, I think I can call how my community is feeling as well as the next politician. None of us can ever call our community perfect, but I do not detect any support for the closure of outlets one day a week. It was met with a degree of animosity when the Chief Minister announced it because it was not long after the dry town status commenced in August. The better view, in my opinion, is, if you are going to look at that, how about you wait until some evidence of the dry town impact is available? I am not talking just a few months down the track, but a proper analysis, say 12 months, at least.
I urge caution, given that you are the Minister for Alcohol Policy. If you are thinking about going down the track of closing outlets for one day, that might have political risks. You are likely to lose some support of the community. We do not need that at the moment on this very important issue. In your response, minister, I would be grateful if you would indicate your view on closing outlets one day a week. If it is your view that it is a reasonable thing to do, I wonder whether you might think about putting that forward so we have, at least, exploration of the 12-month period from August to August in terms of the dry town. Only then, a sensible decision can be made as to whether closing one day a week is sensible. I have my own views about that, and we can debate that at another time.
I was pleased with what you had to say on the Living with Alcohol program. I confess that I do not have at my fingertips all the details of that program. I do know that it all changed as a result of that momentous High Court decision. I remember the High Court decision; little did I know that many years later I would be standing here talking about it in this context. Take this question in the spirit in which it is intended: has there ever been a joint resolution from this parliament to any federal government asking for it to change the relevant legislation so that the levy that was lost can be returned to the Northern Territory? I am happy to say that I do not understand the details. Whether that has been done in the past, I do not know. Maybe that is something that we can look at as a parliament after the election, regardless of who is in. I put that as a constructive idea.
In respect of the new Liquor Act, I am glad you indicated a three-month consultation period. I suggest that you might even like to extend that informally. If you can start to get it to key stakeholders a bit before, that would be useful. I do not want to be provocative, but we do not want the situation with the new Liquor Act that is happening with the local government laws.
There is no doubt that, in terms of alcohol and indigenous people, they have a role to play in coming up with some solutions. I started my contribution, in essence, by saying that at unless this issue is dealt with in such a way that we see some meaningful outcomes in law and order results, health results and so on, this issue will continue to consume successive Territory governments.
There are some great things happening in some parts of the Northern Territory. There are some great Aboriginal people who are leading in their own way. I do not think there is enough Aboriginal leadership on this issue; there is more they can do. I guess, to a point, an answer to that is: ‘You have to embark on a capacity-building exercise which could take some years’. Yes, that is the case but, at the same time, we need to encourage Aboriginal leaders, many of whom would not even call themselves leaders, to stand up and say: ‘Enough is enough’. We are doing that as a result of the child abuse allegations that arose after the Lateline interviews last year. Both sides of politics and plenty of other commentators have invited Aboriginal leaders to stand up and say enough is enough. I have said, either in this place or outside, that in relation to violence, Aboriginal men need to stand up and say: ‘We are not going to do this any more’. Well, some of them need to stand up, men and women, and say: ‘We are not going to do it any more’, when it comes to drinking in the quantities that they do.
I am minded to revisit an issue which came up in the Greatorex by-election, which is the need for a detox facility in Alice Springs. I would like you to state on the Parliamentary Record your view about that. Are we in with a shot or are we not? We think that it is a good idea. The fact is that we cannot turn off the supply of alcohol to many people who are addicted to it and say: ‘Oh, well; you get that’. You need to treat the addiction. I do not think too many people would sensibly argue that we are as well equipped as we could or should be in that regard.
Leadership is required not only from government, not only from organisations, but from individuals, both black and white, the length and breadth of the Territory. There were references to it in your statement. I get very angry when I see it in publications or read it in speeches or comments: yes, alcohol is a factor in violence and sexual abuse, but sober men commit acts of violence and sexually abuse children. It is not so simple to say: ‘If we get rid of all of the grog, all of the crime will stop’. Some of it will, for sure, but do we really think that if there is not a drop of alcohol in the Northern Territory Aboriginal men will suddenly stop beating their wives? I do not think so. Some of the policy makers need to get their heads around this issue. It frustrates me enormously that they either elect not to or just do not get the argument. I am happy to have it any day of the week, but I cannot impress on you more, minister, how seriously I take this issue. I say again: sober men commit acts of violence.
That ends my list of issues. I will either be listening in the Chamber, or I will read the Hansard, because I invited you to comment on some specific things and I would be very grateful if you would answer them. I do wish you well as the first Minister for Alcohol Policy in the Northern Territory, and to the extent that you are having a go, you have our support. We know you will not always do it quite the way we like it, but at the same time, there are some things that we have in common, and there are certainly some common outcomes that we would like to see. Good luck, minister, and thank you.
Mr STIRLING (Treasurer): Madam Speaker, I support the Minister for Alcohol Policy’s statement on the progress of Territory government’s alcohol reforms. I listened closely to the Leader of the Opposition’s comments and I thank her for putting so strongly the idea of bipartisan support of the government’s endeavours in this area. I will pick up a couple of the issues that she raised, and the minister can correct me if I am wrong.
Certainly, the Living with Alcohol program, of which the Chief Minister Marshall Perron was such a strong advocate, was a success, but it relied on excise-raising powers in relation to differential of pricing of beer; able to up the price of heavy and reduce light. In fact, under Marshall Perron as Chief Minister, at any government function, it was light beer only and it was pretty awful stuff because it was the early days of light beer manufacturing and you did not have the range of boutique beers, mid-strengths and varieties you have today. Carlton Light springs to mind, Courage was an early variety; they were not that attractive in the early days, but nonetheless, that was the policy undertaken by Marshall Perron. The figures over the first 12 months or so were startling in terms of trauma, injuries, crime, hospital admissions, court and so on.
The problem was, of course, once the High Court decision knocked out the power due to revocation of the excise raising rights to state and territory governments, the then government relied on that as a funding mechanism to fund the whole Living with Alcohol program. Of course, Chief Minister Perron’s time came, and there was no real drive and no champion within the then CLP government to continue what was very good work undertaken by Marshall Perron.
Once the funding mechanism had broken, there did not seem to be a will to pick it up and try to find another way around it. The pricing differential was an effective response in the sense that more people drank light beer because you could drink more of it for the same price, but you did not get as intoxicated as you might.
Has this parliament ever undertaken any action on that? No. In part, it is because it a decision that applies nationally and it is not thought likely that the Australian government would give the Northern Territory power in the sense that no other state or territory would have it. That is not to say that some thought should not go into approaching this from another angle or any other ideas.
I pick up on what the Leader of the Opposition said about every idea hitting the table in community discussion and debate is worthy of meritorious consideration. I agree. It is similar to words of a former boss of the CLP, Marshall Perron again, when he introduced Living with Alcohol. He said: ‘We don’t pretend this is perfect, but we are going to give it our best shot and we will be back in here amending and changing this as often as is needed in order to keep it effective’. One thing is certain in the game of alcohol reform and trying to mitigate against alcohol abuse: nearly any measure you implement will be undermined and unwound over a period of time as people find their way around it or the measure itself becomes ineffective. She is not the first person in parliament to say that, but it is a statement with which I totally agree. Every idea is worthy of consideration, particularly if it comes from the grassroots. That is relation to the excise and funding of the Living with Alcohol program.
I agreed with the Leader of the Opposition when she said generalised statements such as ‘Child sexual abuse or violence is caused only by alcohol’. That is not true. It is not true to say only alcohol drives that. It is true to say that alcohol drives a huge measure of it. If we look at domestic violence, for example, well over 50% and somewhere close to 60% of all domestic violence in the Northern Territory is alcohol-inspired. Over 50% or 60% of assaults are in the same order. Often, property crime and alcohol are related. It is often said by magistrates that some 70% to 80% of the cases before them, if it were not for alcohol abuse, if they were not off their face smashed on alcohol, what happened would not have occurred, whether it was violence, a brick through a window or whatever the situation was.
I know from sitting in Nhulunbuy Magistrates Court from time to time over many years, many of the cases being dealt with are the result of alcohol abuse. That is why I again find myself in agreement with what the Leader of the Opposition was saying about this question of alcohol abuse being not only the most serious social issue pressing on the Northern Territory government; it is a millstone around our neck until we get on top of it because the costs careen out of control.
If I go back to Living with Alcohol, they were able to demonstrate in terms of hundreds of millions of dollars the costs in hospital admissions, trauma, police services, and admissions to crisis accommodation centres. They rounded up all of the costs accruing as a result of alcohol abuse running to hundreds of millions of dollars per annum and were able to demonstrate an actual dollar saving to the Northern Territory when Living with Alcohol, in its early days, was effective, and it was. It could be demonstrated in a bottom dollar return to government.
Those issues are still around. Something like over 80% of our prison population is indigenous, and well over 50% of that 80% are in that prison because they were abusing alcohol or substances, but it was generally alcohol, when they committed whatever they committed to land them in prison. You can see from that alone, all of the costs of court appearances, the police work, everything that has gone on in order for that person to land in Berrimah or Alice Springs Gaol, has cost the government and the taxpayer of the Northern Territory many thousands of dollars.
I congratulate minister Burns on his handling of these issues. It is, indeed, a most pressing issue. He brings a scientific and disciplined mental approach to it, but also a balanced approach. One of the issues that confronts him as a minister, or any minister in this government, is when you try to rein in the excesses of alcohol abuse, you run the risk of everyone being affected, everyone being penalised or punished in some way, for what are the out-of-control antics of a minority, and there has to be a balance in this.
Sure, the community, in some ways, will have to wear some discomfort with some measures, but you have to keep that to an absolute minimum because the vast majority of people use alcohol pretty sensibly and wisely. The statistics he set out in his statement, particularly in regard to indigenous Territorians, are unsurprising, but nonetheless, they are very disturbing, and that is why, in part, our initiatives in this area are so important.
Alcohol Management Plans are a central component of our strategy to limit the harm caused by alcohol. They are based on cooperation, consultation and local involvement to come up with local solutions. They came out of the work done by Daryl Manzie and Donna Ah Chee in coming up with a framework to deal with alcohol issues in the Northern Territory. We have some good examples already, particularly in relation to Groote Eylandt with its Alcohol Management Plan. That was touched on by the minister. There has been a two-thirds reduction in police call-outs for aggravated assaults, three-quarters of a decrease in public drunkenness and huge decreases in public disturbances and property crime, again underlining that relationship between alcohol abuse and this type of behaviour.
Sergeant Tony Fuller of Northern Territory Police was instrumental in establishing the Groote Eylandt reforms by involving the local communities. He was in charge of the Groote Eylandt Police Station. We were fortunate enough that, when Tony Fuller finished his time Groote Eylandt, he went to Nhulunbuy and has been our Senior Sergeant Officer-in-Charge of Nhulunbuy for some years. He has done an excellent job working in Nhulunbuy where we are getting close to implementing a plan along similar, but a little different from that implemented so successfully in Groote Eylandt.
As the minister explained, it will include a computer-based permit system for takeaway liquor to specifically target problem drinkers. I never get tired of congratulating Senior Sergeant Tony Fuller on his work. He has been assisted by a widely representative cohort of the Nhulunbuy community, at different times 30 to 40 people as part of Nhulunbuy Community Harmony. As people come and go, it has been a bit of a moving feast, but there is still a core of people who were at the inaugural Community Harmony meeting quite some years ago now.
Unfortunately, Senior Sergeant Fuller, now Superintendent Tony Fuller, will not be in Nhulunbuy to see the fruits of his work. He has been promoted to Superintendent and is moving to Darwin. That is what happens when you have very good police officers, unfortunately. They are like good classroom teachers; they get promoted and leave the excellent work they were doing. However, our loss will certainly be the greater Northern Territory’s gain because he is an outstanding police officer.
The successes that we have seen so far are why the government has committed a further $2.5m over the next five years to keep work on, and keep the community’s active in the implementation of these local Alcohol Management Plans. I have to make this point: because they are grassroots, discussed and consulted and the ideas of the community are brought together, they stand in stark contrast to the top-down, centrally-imposed Canberra idea of alcohol reforms favoured by the current federal Liberal government.
Minister Brough gets a bit bristly at his media appearances whenever minister Burns has pointed out, as any minister would in his position, the more pointless, stupid, impractical components of minister Brough’s alcohol laws. Of course, we have heard minister Brough trumpeting an arrest made under the $100 limit laws. It is far from the truth. I am sure the Minister for Alcohol Policy will speak about that. He is claiming credit for something that is not as a result of his $100 limit laws at all. The member for Solomon was, at one stage, keen to see these laws go in six months, and now he thinks maybe there will have to be a review and consideration. It might encourage him to think that they are, in fact, a good thing.
In relation to these laws in Nhulunbuy, anecdotally we have more people coming into town to drink on top of the group of itinerants who generally are responsible for the majority of antisocial behaviour in our town. We have seen, on the detrimental side, events like the Gove Bush Golf Classic, an event that has operated in Nhulunbuy for many years. It ostensibly starts at the Gove Golf Club, but it works around many of the suppliers that supply to the region and many of them to Alcan. Representatives come from all over Australia, generally pretty well cashed up, too. They are treated to a fantastic weekend in Nhulunbuy involving a whole range of events centred around the Gove Bush Golf Classic. It might start at the golf course, but it would range right across the peninsula where, I dare not say greens, but their equivalent is cut out of the bush over a widely dispersed area. They travel to these different holes and play their round of golf. It is a huge charity fundraiser, and brings many dollars not just to Nhulunbuy, but the proceeds, the profits from that Gove Bush Golf Classic have, in the years past, gone to charities. That event has gone off our calendar as a result of these stupid laws from Mal Brough, who would not have a clue. He would not have a clue about the Gove Bush Golf Classic and would not understand the tremendous damage done both in social networking with all of these suppliers coming into town and meeting the customers they supply on a regular basis, nor the bottom-line effect on the charities that used to benefit from what was a major event on our social calendar.
Similarly, Gove Beach Volleyball, run along similar lines with the profits being distributed to charity - gone because you cannot consume alcohol on the beach. Mal Brough would not have a clue about that. Here is a minister in Canberra. If they are going to pass laws like that, they ought to understand the detrimental impact that they are going to have on Territorians. Do not worry, much will be made of this in Nhulunbuy in the lead-up to the election. We will be making it very clear indeed that this is one Mal Brough and Prime Minister Howard’s initiative and, if you want to get rid of this stupid law, get rid of the Howard government. I will be making that very clear in the lead-up to the election. We know they try to confuse the issue; they try to overlay the Northern Territory. They try to con people to believe that it is the Northern Territory that has passed these ridiculous laws.
The problem we have with alcohol reform is not just that, but you will not get a more stark example than that. It has been highlighted by a report released today by the National Drug Research Institute, whose findings show very clearly that policies with support from the ground up are always going to be much more effective at solving social problems than those imposed on a top-down level. This is study based on two years worth of research into alcohol restrictions in indigenous communities. It makes very loud and clear that voluntary adoption and local involvement invariably leads to better results. If Mal Brough can read, that might be a document that he might like to get hold of and try to understand.
Another initiative relevant to my ministerial portfolio is the establishment and expansion of the specialist Alcohol Courts. These courts have been operating for a little over a year now, and provide a much better way to deal with people who commit low-level crime due to their alcohol addiction. Instead of the usual system of punishment, appropriate offenders are channelled into quite intensive rehabilitation in the firm knowledge that failure will most likely bring with it imprisonment. It is a chance to break their alcohol addiction, a chance to break out of the offending that comes with alcohol abuse. People are taking the opportunity to their advantage. It is going to expand into Katherine, Tennant Creek and Nhulunbuy with increased funding through Closing the Gap initiatives announced earlier this year.
I commend the minister for his statement. I urge him to keep up the good work in order to further reduce alcohol-related harm in the Territory.
There is one other issue I want to raise, which is slightly related, and it is the issue of the mixed media messages arising from alcohol. Together with many thousands of Victorians I was absolutely thrilled to see Geelong win the AFL Premiership Cup this year. I was less thrilled with the footage during the week. The media seemed to have a bent on following the Geelong Football Club around for the next four days. These are guys, tremendously disciplined in order to compete at the highest level in Australia in the AFL, and for 10 months they are drilled into almost abstinence - I will not say total abstinence - but their daily workload is such that the body is not going to stand tormenting themselves with alcohol with the physical workload that is expected of them for all but seven weeks of the year. There are seven weeks of the year, which commence immediately after the grand final, when they are effectively on leave. Once the seven weeks is up, they are back into pre-season training and the 10 month grind starts again.
They guys are young, fit, and at the peak of their physicality as young men. I do not begrudge them going out and having a beer to celebrate a magnificent achievement. Not very many people get to play in an AFL premiership winning side. Go out and have a drink; that is exactly what they are going to do. They are young men and they are going to enjoy it, but I found this association with success in sport and alcohol a bit much, and I mean heavy alcohol intake to the point of view of closing down a hotel in Geelong to accommodate the Geelong football team. No-one else could go into that hotel except Channel 9, Channel 7 and Channel 10, which were able to go in there and take footage of the Geelong Football Club players hoeing into bacon and eggs, liberal lashings of tomato sauce, which is fine and good, but accompanied by voluminous jugs of beer and huge tankards in front of them.
There are many messages in that: you cannot have a good time without getting drunk; and you must have alcohol to celebrate success. There were a whole lot of very unhealthy messages in that. I know that week is over. Those players have all gone home because that is what they do. They spend probably the best part of that week in order to (1) celebrate a huge success, a huge triumph; and (2) tidy up matters in Geelong and then, unless they are home-bred Geelong people, they go home to Queensland - they come home to Nhulunbuy in the case of young Nathan - for a couple of weeks and then they are back in Geelong preparing for the pre-season again.
I know that is not the life they lead. I know they are highly disciplined and will be back into work again. My reason for raising this is the media. It is not and should not be necessary to splash that in our faces every night for about four days, showing us just how much these Geelong footballers, or any indeed football club, can drink. I go to an Essendon Captain, premiership winning captain 1984-85, one Simon Madden. They won back-to-back. They won the 1984 flag and they asked Simon Madden after the 1985 grand final: ‘Simon, how does this feel back-to-back?’ He said: ‘I have to tell you, this is the most deeply satisfying moment of my life’. He said: ‘Last year was just a wipe out. I cannot remember even winning the flag last year, but I am going to remember every second of this year, the joy and the deep satisfaction that this has brought’. I hope Geelong, and I think they will, get around to that point of view and say if it does happen to them again, they might think about the memory function from last year and decide they will enjoy this one.
Of course, they are going to go and celebrate. Of course they will; they are young men. I wish them all the best doing that. However, I do question why the media has to throw it on the nightly news for three or four days in a row that the celebrations still continues because that is a bit of a wrong message in terms of the celebration of sporting success having to be accompanied by huge intakes of alcohol.
Mr CONLAN (Greatorex): Madam Speaker, I thank the minister for his statement today on what is a very serious issue in the Northern Territory. Everyone in this House is fully aware of the problems related to alcohol in the NT and we are hard pressed for a day to go by without witnessing some of the results and the effects of alcohol.
As the minister said, we do enjoy social drink with family and friends and most of us drink alcohol responsibly, but the Territory does have a poor history when it comes to the harmful effects of alcohol consumption, highlighted by the Little Children are Sacred report and a series of crime summits which were held in Alice Springs this year. While the lack of law and order was the thrust of those summits, it was overwhelmingly agreed that alcohol abuse was the root cause of antisocial behaviour throughout the Northern Territory and particularly in Alice Springs. The summits highlighted that about 85% of the workload of police is attributed to antisocial behaviour. Furthermore, the issue affects our health services, which puts strain and extra pressure on staff and hospital facilities.
The Little Children are Sacred report states that:
I agree with the minister that we should continue to enjoy the positive aspects of alcohol, but the figures highlighted in the statement cannot be ignored. They are quite disturbing. The NT has the highest level of alcohol consumption in Australia and it is over seven litres per adult higher than the national average for 2005-06. It is a situation that clearly needs urgent attention and it is therefore a positive step by this government to create the portfolio of Alcohol Policy. The results that we are seeing thus far appear to be good. Dry town status for Alice Springs appears to have addressed some of the problems of alcohol abuse on the streets. It is only early days and the trend associated with the vast climate changes that we have between winter and summer cannot be discounted as the reason for the drop. We will have to wait and see how the law is treated as the summer months roll on. I know Katherine is considering dry town status and I encourage other jurisdictions feeling the effects of alcohol-related antisocial behaviour to apply to become a dry town.
The minister also mentioned a one-size-fits-all approach and talked about local solutions for local problems, suggesting the latter approach is more suited to the Northern Territory with its unique demographics. The Leader of the Opposition said that some fundamental guidelines should be in place to help communities devise plans. It can be very difficult for communities which are so consumed by problems associated with alcohol abuse and alcohol-related harm to devise plans on their own. They need a guide and they need help from the Northern Territory government. They need help from the community to do that. While we agree the Territory is diverse and is made up of unique people and cultures, we feel the need for local solutions to local problems, but also a fundamental framework, a guideline, needs to be in place to help these communities formulate a plan.
The minister mentioned the ability for private residents to declare their property dry. According to the figures in the statement, there have been 278 applications to have alcohol banned from households, with 214 declarations already in force. It is a good initiative and has empowered tenants of public housing who previously were suffering as a result of alcohol-related antisocial behaviour to restore some sense of normality and peace in their lives. That is a good thing and appears to be working well.
As mentioned in this House, Madam Speaker, I have received many complaints from residents in Alice Springs about public housing tenants. They have noticed an increase in the antisocial behaviour in public housing, perhaps not a direct result of the dry town status, but certainly since 1 August, there seems to have been an increase in complaints. The Minister for Housing seems to think that I am making it up or that residents are making it up simply because I have not responded to an e-mail in a 24 hour period. I can assure the Minister for Housing that my office is compiling him a thorough file of these complaints. I hope he is able to address those issues. I can say that in response to that e-mail, we have been in the process of contacting complainants for their permission to release their name and details. I am sure the minister will respect the privacy of those people. Some people do tell you things in confidence so we just want to ensure that it is okay to release their details to the minister.
The question I put to him on Tuesday was not an attack on the dry town status or the Liquor Commission, the Department of Housing or anyone else; it was simply echoing the concerns of my constituents. It certainly was not meant to be political, but if the Minister for Housing wants to use that as a political football, he can go right ahead.
The Minister for Alcohol Policy also mentioned attitudes to alcohol and its social acceptance. We welcome any strategy that explores the way people think about alcohol. The $1m invested in alcohol programs, I think he said over five years, is a good thing, as is a reassessment of the Living with Alcohol program, which was a good program. It was good to hear the minister acknowledge that, and if we can get that back into Territory life, that would be good.
The minister made a very good point about the culture of drinking in the Territory. It did not develop overnight, and it certainly will not change overnight. There needs to be cooperation from many avenues of the community, obviously government and opposition. The Treasurer made a very good point about the media and coverage after the AFL grand final. I was surprised and a little disturbed to see so much coverage of these men, who had achieved everything they wanted in life, drinking to what seemed to be excess and running amok. The media needs to take responsibility and play a role in addressing alcohol problems in the Northern Territory. Obviously, local councils need to play a role, welfare agencies and, of course, business. The businesses that sell alcohol need to trade in alcohol responsibly.
Madam Speaker, like the Leader of the Opposition, I wish the minister well in his new role as Minister for Alcohol Policy. It certainly is not an easy task; it is a complex issue we face. It is a problem that has built up over a long time, and it will take a long time to solve. He has a big job ahead of him, but it will be made much easier with cooperation from all sectors of the Northern Territory community. He certainly will have the cooperation of the opposition.
Mr McADAM (Local Government): Madam Speaker, I support my colleague, the Minister for Alcohol Policy, and extend my best wishes to him. I know he is very committed and genuine about making a difference about the impact that alcohol has on us as a community. He approaches things in a practical way. I agree that he will be able to bring a high level of scientific rigour to the issues facing us.
It is appropriate that the report, Substance Abuse in Remote Communities: Confronting the Confusion and Disconnection was tabled today. I congratulate the Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community. I intend to speak briefly to the report later. Obviously, I have not read it all, but there are some critical points in the context of housing and employment. I congratulate everyone associated with the exercise. As the opposition would agree, this is an issue that deserves bipartisan support. It is for that reason these reports become more critical and relevant because it is not something we are going to get on top of today; it is an ongoing process.
I assure the member for Greatorex that I do not see the question you asked yesterday and my response necessarily as being an attack on me personally from a political perspective or vice versa. I would like to think if we were to harness our respective resources, we might have a joint attack on alcohol abuse. No offence taken, member for Greatorex, but I honestly believe that, as a new member, it is important to understand the impact of excessive alcohol use. It is in the best interests of the Northern Territory that we work collectively together to achieve outcomes to which so many Territorians aspire.
Our challenge in the Territory is to manage alcohol to reduce the harm which coincides with excessive consumption. The Territory average per capita consumption of pure alcohol is 7% higher than the Australian average. We see heavy drinking contributing to poor attendance at work, homelessness, antisocial behaviour and violence, illness and death. The costs are borne by the Territory community. Alcohol abuse hits the collective hip pocket and, more importantly, takes its toll on the wellbeing of all.
The Little Children are Sacred report was conclusive that alcohol and other drugs are ripping at the fabric of indigenous communities. A quarter of all indigenous alcohol-related deaths across Australia occur in the Northern Territory. The situation, as the minister pointed out, is dire in Central Australia. Over 60% of my constituents in the Barkly are indigenous people and I am absolutely committed, as I am sure are others members in this House, to securing a future for all Territorians, including those people in the Barkly.
I want to make it clear that when one in three Territorians are potentially in strife with alcohol and other drugs, the whole Territory is in strife. This is one of the key reasons why this government is absolutely committed to turning the situation around. Our challenges are many, so our approach, starting with the 2004 Alcohol Framework, has been multifaceted. Alcohol management plans are a key plank of our overarching Alcohol Framework. They provide for tailored practical solutions to local problems.
Alice Springs was the first town to implement a management plan, and we have witnessed a marked decline in crimes against people and fewer admissions to sobering-up shelters and treatment centres. Alice Springs was the first urban centre to prohibit drinking in all public places.
The minister also highlighted the experience at Groote Eylandt where a locally developed permit system for the management of takeaway grog has seen very positive results; a 75% reduction in public drunkenness is significant.
Alcohol management plans will soon be in place in Tennant Creek and Palmerston and work is under way in other locations. We will support this work with $2.5m over the next five years.
Indeed, we are working across many fronts. The Alcohol Court will be expanded from Darwin and Alice Springs to include Katherine, Tennant Creek and Nhulunbuy. Whilst that is a great initiative, we have to give consideration to some of the smaller regional communities such as Borroloola and Ali Curung where circuit courts sit. Perhaps in the future, we can look at the introduction of Alcohol Courts into the smaller regional centres.
Under Closing the Gap, we will invest $10m to boost our efforts on alcohol and drug management. We are pioneering a computer-based permit system in East Arnhem. We are working at a local level on liquor accords which will focus on patron care and community ownership of alcohol-related issues. The minister has announced that the Liquor Act is under review and I look forward to him introducing this important legislation.
This government believes in targeted strategies and intelligent policy, and we institute strong measures where strong measures are needed. A good example of this is our work to manage alcohol abuse in public housing. The minister flagged that 214 households have sought to have their homes declared dry; 204 of these families are tenants in public housing with Territory Housing assisting them to take control of their homes and say no to drinkers. There are over 100 in Darwin and Palmerston, 24 in Katherine, and seven in Tennant Creek. Territory Housing has begun working within the provisions of this government’s antisocial behaviour legislation since it was introduced in June 2006.
More recently, we knew that drinkers might try to move from town camps and remote communities to public housing in urban centres on the back of everything that is going on in the bush. We know that one of the consequences of restricted access to alcohol is that people with alcohol dependency can move to other areas with easier access to grog. There is anecdotal evidence that this is also occurring as a consequence of changes associated with the Commonwealth government’s intervention in the Northern Territory.
We were well prepared to manage the impact this might have on urban communities, particularly in Alice Springs. As an example, we have put officers of Territory Housing on the ground in July of this year to support at-risk tenants to declare their homes restricted premises. Fifty-eight households have applied to have their homes declared dry in Alice Springs as part of this strategy.
As Minister for Housing, I am pleased to report that complaints about antisocial behaviour in public housing in Alice Springs have decreased by 40% since August. We attribute this to a range of measures that have been put in place to address antisocial behaviour in Alice Springs and obviously this takes in stronger policing in that community. Since the supply plan was introduced in October 2006, there has been a 10% reduction, as the minister indicated, in alcohol consumption, a 14% decline in crimes against people, a 47% decrease in admissions to sobering-up shelters, a 21% decrease in uptake of treatment services, and an overall decline in the number of admissions to hospital for alcohol-related matters.
We are now planning to declare the common areas of at-risk public housing complexes across the Northern Territory as restricted premises. Public tenants who indulge in alcohol-fueled antisocial behaviour clearly do not respect their neighbours. Residents who behave in this way will face having their homes declared dry. The dry areas will be closely monitored by security patrols and the police. There will be a need to engage and consult with the tenants of those facilities and we will do that. We will also consult with the respective members of this House, members on this side, Independents and the opposition, the CLP. We will consult with all of those members in respect of facilities in your electorate so that you can be fully informed and engaged with this process.
Territory Housing currently invests $1m per annum in security patrols across the Territory, and we are exploring new and innovative ways to get more from that dollar. I alluded earlier to the issues of people moving to town without secure accommodation. We have increased our efforts in the area of supported, managed accommodation for visitors to Alice Springs. A $2m investment in Stuart Lodge, which opened its doors on 27 May, has paid dividends for the community of Central Australia. We have already put up 5800 people at Stuart Lodge, a dry facility, and we will continue this solid work by investing $1.3m in the Yipirinya Hostel. This government worked in collaboration at a grassroots level to bring Stuart Lodge to fruition, again proving the value of developing solutions with people on the ground at the local level.
We have also worked closely with community organisations such as Tangentyere and Julalikari Councils in Alice Springs and Tennant Creek respectively on Life Skills programs and similar services to help at-risk households to take pride in their place and their community. We have invested in the vicinity of $2.5m for this to occur.
I mentioned earlier that I would make reference to Confronting the Confusion and Disconnection, the report tabled earlier today, particularly about the areas of housing and local government. As I said, I have not had the time to completely read the report, but clearly, overcrowding in houses in bush communities and major regional centres is a real problem. It really indicates that we have to be more innovative and creative because where you have a household that is consumed totally by alcohol and you have young children and people who work, it is very difficult for those people to live a useful life.
One of the real challenges for this government along with the Commonwealth government is to provide better housing options. To this effect, the Commonwealth and Northern Territory governments have recently announced about $973m of funding, which is a significant increase compared with what occurred in the past. About $673m of that will be targeted to bush communities to alleviate overcrowding and to the regional centres.
I mentioned Stuart Lodge where we have a supported managed option. It is beholden on us to give consideration to the establishment of those kinds of facilities in regional centres and in some of the larger communities such as Borroloola, Timber Creek, Mataranka and Ti Tree. People are looking for a safe, secure environment and that is one of the options.
Another issue to which the report referred was unemployment. Most people know that if you are unemployed, it does not allow you the opportunity to fulfil your life in the way other Australians do. The challenge we face is being able to provide real jobs for people in the bush. We have come part of the way with the proposed changes to CDEP, with which I do not agree. Structural changes should be made, certainly, where there is a labour market force, but where there is no labour market force, proper employment outcomes and opportunities should be afforded to people. As I mentioned, there is some capacity to achieve that. We have announced 300 jobs in ranger-type programs. There was also a commitment of an extra $10m for education and health and a further $60m, which comprised $30m each from the Northern Territory and Commonwealth governments, for local government reform.
Much has been said about local government reform in this House over the last few months. There is a real opportunity to ensure that we maximise the benefits and opportunities which are going to flow through to communities like Litchfield, Marrakai and all the others. The shires will have a greater capacity to coordinate issues like alcohol abuse and its impact upon their communities within a prescribed area. That is one of the things that we forget in terms of this reform, particularly for communities in the bush. It will allow people to look at programs across a range of communities and ensure the dollars are utilised effectively. More importantly, we, as government, can use that as a means to refocus how we provide services, not only for alcohol-type programs, but a whole range of other programs in the bush communities.
I now turn to Tennant Creek. A significant decline in drinking and alcohol abuse in Tennant Creek came on the strength of reductions in trading hours for liquor outlets in 1996. A recent report from the National Drug Research Institute highlights drinking declined by 20% and alcohol-related hospital admissions decreased by 29% from 1996 to 1998. This was a community-driven response to local circumstances. However, we have witnessed a 15% increase in consumption in 1999-2000, and this was followed by a sharp decrease in 2004-05. The experience of Tennant Creek reaffirms the need for constant vigilance when it comes to alcohol management. I was pleased to learn that a public meeting will be held at the Council Chambers on 30 October as part of development of the Alcohol Management Plan, and a further meeting will occur soon after in respect to dry areas.
The point I make is that we had this initiative occurring in 1996 in Tennant Creek with the dry town, Thirsty Thursday as it later came to be known. It highlights the fact that where you have a community in which there is excessive alcohol abuse, it is not something you can say: ‘We have put this in place, so it is going to work into the future’. It is a timely reminder that it is not something we are going to fix overnight; we have to remain on our toes and ensure we are flexible and innovative enough to be able to respond to needs as they arise and, more importantly, to respond with appropriate programs.
Borroloola is a small community that lacks resources. There is a lack of expertise and knowledge to support the community. I know the minister is aware of that, but an Alcohol Management Plan has been talked about for Borroloola for quite some time. It is imperative that we put something in place as quickly as we can. I know the Liquor Commission is conducting a hearing regarding the future of the Borroloola Inn. More importantly, where possible with resources that are available, we should be making a concentrated effort to address some of the issues at Borroloola.
The same applies to Elliott, a small community 250 km to the north of Tennant Creek. In fact, Elliott was one of the first towns in Australia to introduce restrictions with a six-can limit, and it has proven very useful. My belief is that the majority of the community wishes to maintain those conditions, but at the same time, we need to have a fresh look at what has occurred with the six-can limit: what improvements, what we can do to provide more services to places like Elliott and Borroloola, and not only those places, but many of the smaller communities across the Northern Territory.
Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I know that minister Burns is committed. It is incumbent upon us, as parliamentarians and members of the community, to do everything we possibly can to overcome excessive alcohol abuse in the Northern Territory.
Mrs MILLER (Katherine): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I respond to the Minister for Alcohol Policy’s first statement to the House. When you finished the statement, minister, you said ‘the journey is likely to be long and difficult’. You are so right; it is going to be long. The inherent problems we have which are caused by alcohol in our communities are not going to be resolved overnight. There is no question about that, and there would not be any argument from anyone in this House. The important thing is to address the issue and to do what we can.
Many of the communities have done much research into what best suits them. I wanted to include in my response some comments by the Katherine Region Harmony Group when they put together their first report in 2006. Their introduction to the report said:
When I was the Chair of the Katherine Regional Tourism Association for a few years, I can remember at one stage thinking: ‘I must stand up every month at this meeting and say the same things over and over again, such as we have so much antisocial behaviour, which is all caused by alcohol and we have to do something’. In the end, I approached the local member, Mike Reed, and said: ‘We have to do something and I do not know what to do, but something has to be done’. He said to me: ‘You run a licensed outlet. What are you going to do?’ I said I was prepared to cut trading hours at my licensed outlet, which was mainly catering for tourists, but there were local people who did use Red Gum Tourist Park to buy alcohol. I said I was prepared to reduce the trading hours at my establishment if it meant it would make a difference to the social aspects of Katherine.
Unfortunately, after a series of meetings and some hearings in Katherine, it was very challenging to try to have that implemented. Trials were held in Katherine for six months. The first six months was opening from 2 pm to 8 pm, which did restrict trading, but the benefits of that far exceeded the inconvenience for people to be able to buy alcohol whenever they wanted.
The reason I am talking about that is there needs to be a balance and people need to understand the seriousness of the problem and that we have to take serious action. We are not going to be able to please everyone and there will always be people who will be dissatisfied with what is being implemented, but for the sake of the seriousness of the problem that we have, we have to do whatever we can.
I want to discuss some of the methodology used in collecting information in Katherine at the time. A company visited Katherine one week in August 2006 and consultations took place through focus groups and one-to-one interviews with 69 people representing businesses and organisations in Katherine. That was reasonable research, I thought. Discussions were also held with 24 people living in the long grass around Katherine, and all individuals were asked the same questions. The consultant also observed the purchase and use of alcohol in Katherine and, in addition, members of the Katherine Regional Harmony Group conducted a general community survey outside Woolworths in August 2006. That is pretty comprehensive; it was not a small sample and they asked everyone the same questions.
They asked businesses and organisations: what are you most proud of in your community? This is how it came out: family, community, work, physical attractiveness, and access to services. They were the priorities in that community. They are the things that all communities look for. Those factors are highly relevant to every community. We all want a great lifestyle for our families. We all want a lovely, close-knit community. We all want good career prospects. We all want to have good weather, and we have that. We have a beautiful river in Katherine, and we wanted access to services. Everyone wants that, but in Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs, it is particularly relevant for people from outlying communities who end up living in the long grass when they come in.
This research sought to determine the underlying causes of alcohol misuse. People were asked to identify the underlying factors. The factors identified were grouped under three headings: systemic factors which related to the perceived hard drinking culture in Katherine and the Northern Territory; the accessibility of alcohol; the effects of racism and consequent lack of access to employment; low levels of self-esteem; and differing attitudes to work in traditional communities where work is more about ceremony than it is about livelihood.
Community factors included lack of leadership, services and employment opportunities in outlying communities, peer pressure, the effects of dispossession of land, family and culture, and the impact of poor role models. The individual factors were hopelessness, despair and grief, boredom, loss of pride and self-esteem. They were asked: what do you think needs to happen in this community? It got down to the same thing: supply control; demand reduction; and harm reduction. It came back to all of those things.
They were asked to describe what Katherine would look like in the future when the alcohol management plan was fully in place and everything was as it should be. The following statement is a collection of their responses, which is a wonderful outcome. I would love to see this. I would love to see Katherine’s name replaced with all the other names as well for each community.
That sounds like Utopia to me. That really sounds like Utopia, but it was highlighted that people in Katherine wanted to see that happen. As I said, it was from 69 people and they included people from the long grass. The will is there; it is just finding the wheels to get it going.
I have some difficulty with alcohol plans of management in that I believe that there should be an overall Territory plan of management, which should apply to Alice Springs, Tennant Creek, Katherine and the Top End, particularly the main towns, and then it needs to be fleshed out for whatever suits a particular town, but there needs to be guidelines that are unique to the four areas where the most problems are.
It is easier to have alcohol plans of management in the smaller communities where their demographics are slightly different, but the problems that are caused in the main regional areas and in the city of Darwin are all the same. It would be more beneficial and quicker to implement. The Alcohol Plan of Management for Katherine has taken years to get to this stage. It took a lot of work and the benefit of it was that local people did get to understand the issues a lot better than if it had been given to them as a blanket. I believe there needs to be an over-arching plan of management for the whole of the Territory that can be expanded in each of those communities and regional areas to suit them, to just tweak it a bit if it does not suit them. The plan of management tends to be a little ad hoc so I would like to see an overall one.
I am a great fan of dry towns. I did not used to be, but I had a look at what they were doing in Port Augusta in September last year because I had been following that with interest and spoke to the Mayor and CEO at the Port Augusta City Council. I have talked before in this House about the difference the dry town legislation made to Port Augusta. I am sure representatives from government have been there to see it for themselves. I have not as yet seen the strategic survey that the Port Augusta City Council was doing. They were going to do an assessment, and not just an ad hoc one of chatting to people in the street to see how it went. People in the street are happy with it, but they wanted to have statistical data and that should be compiled now. It was going to happen around May or June this year, and that should be completed now.
It will be interesting to see that it has not just pushed the problem over the hill, which is one of the concerns that every one of us had in relation to dry towns. I am a great believer in a whole town being dry. I did not support Katherine’s three streets because that was just pushing out to the fourth street or Railway Terrace or somewhere else. I am very glad that the minister has had some input there and has suggested that the town becomes completely dry because it sends a clearer message to anyone who would like to come into the town to abuse alcohol. It is very clear: sorry, no alcohol anywhere in Katherine. That makes it easier.
People have said they think it is an infringement of their rights that they cannot drink. I have said: ‘Where in the heck did you used to drink in the main street before?’ They did not. They can have their drink at home or a friend’s place; it is not infringing on their rights at all. It just means that we can tidy up the town a whole lot more.
We need the restricted hours of trading. There will be some opposition to it, obviously, by the retailers. I understand it has to happen and I support it. I would rather see an ID card system implemented across the Territory. It is a great initiative to control those people who should not be buying alcohol. It is much easier to identify them with an ID system. I have only seen one commercial program demonstrated but I know they can be tweaked to suit each town.
Minister, you also mentioned the Living with Alcohol program. I am a great believer in it. I know it worked and was working quite well. I was looking through the proposed Living with Alcohol framework for action. It goes to show you how much alcohol impacts on our society. The goal was the Northern Territory government endorsing a national policy aim to minimise alcohol-related harm across Australia. Indicators of alcohol-related harm showed levels and the costs suffered by the Territory were unacceptably high. I am not quite sure what date this has on it, minister:
We have not met that, have we? I am not putting the blame on anyone, but we have to try to turn that around. The proposal said:
What I am getting at is that was $10m to implement the Living with Alcohol plan. The Northern Territory government put $10m into petrol sniffing, so $10m would certainly go a long way. It will be more than that now, of course, because that would have been nearly 10 years ago, but when you look at the amount of harm, the economic cost to look after people who are suffering from alcohol abuse, it is far more than it would cost us to implement some programs to address it. I definitely would like to see a program very similar to that. Maybe it can be tweaked to suit, minister.
The accords, minister. Many hotels have accords now. I believe Katherine has an accord, and it has been quite interesting because I have never been able to lay my hands on it. I would like to know what is in it. I do not know if that is available through your office, but I would like to see what is in it because there were a couple of members of clubs, or particularly one member of a club, who is quite anti-anything that is being proposed as far as the alcohol legislation goes.
I asked a question in Question Time today about sobering-up shelters. The minister said there is a proposal to replace the sobering-up shelter in Katherine. Are there any plans for a detox centre in Katherine, minister? With rehabilitation, I know that the Venndale block is being re-jigged with programs that are suitable, and, I hope, for alcohol rehabilitation. I know I talk incessantly about it, but I will be speaking again about the rehabilitation services and the opportunities for culturally-sensitive rehabilitation of indigenous alcoholics at Dillinya, which is run by Sheila Millar. It is a healing centre, and I need to talk to you further about that because it does have good value.
Minister, I thank you for your first statement. We are going to talk incessantly in the years to come about alcohol policy; hopefully we can work together to make a difference to the abuse of alcohol in the Northern Territory.
Debate adjourned.
Mr HENDERSON (Leader of Government Business): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I move that the Assembly at its rising adjourn until Tuesday, 27 November 2007 at 10 am or such time and/or date as may be set by the Speaker, pursuant to sessional order.
Motion agreed to.
Mr HENDERSON (Leader of Government Business): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I move that the Assembly do now adjourn.
Mr WOOD (Nelson): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I am sure the alcohol reform statement will be out of date by the time we next get to it again because there is an act coming along for us to discuss.
I want to talk about planning. There has been a lot of debate about planning, especially in relation to what is happening with development around Darwin. For those who know a little of the history of Darwin, the region has, until now, been controlled by the Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan, a plan that was developed some years ago under the previous government but, to some extent, still retained in the Northern Territory Planning Scheme.
I was recently surprised by a number of things: (1) the government’s view that Glyde Point would not be heavy industrial; (2) Berrimah Farm will be opened up for housing; (3) that Middle Arm would basically replace the industry proposed for Glyde Point. All these things go against the NT Planning Scheme. They also go against the Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan, which is still a relevant document.
My concerns are that whilst the government has every right to change the NT Planning Scheme, there should at least be some reasoned debate about the suitability of land this government is deciding to use for various types of development.
Government wants to use the land at Berrimah Farm as land suitable for housing. I suggest to people who say: ‘It is a great idea, our government thought of it, it is fantastic’ that they look at the zoning map. The zoning map for the area, which is part of the NT Planning Scheme, clearly identifies much of this land as general industry, light industry or future development. It has a main road, Tiger Brennan Drive, passing through it. In the case of the aerial farm land, which the Treasurer was speaking about the other day and asking the Commonwealth to release, if you look at the structure plan, you will find that is earmarked for a power and railway corridor which would head out past the Robertson Barracks.
I do not know whether the government has simply pulled this out of a hat and said: ‘It is a great idea because we need to open up more land’. There is, however, a notion called ‘sustainable development’. There would be nothing worse than to have a housing estate surrounded by industrial land and the prison. You will find that either of two things will happen: people will not want to live there because they are too close to industrial development, or industry will have to move out because of constraints on the use of the land.
If you look at places such as Berrimah where there are transport- and oil-associated industries, such as BHP, which is no longer its name, but there are industries that operate 24 hours a day. You have overhead lighting, industrial yards, noise and smell.
I would have thought it would be sensible to look at developing residential areas as far away from industrial land as possible. If you look at this plan, you will see that the Hidden Valley Motor Sports site is in a valley and that same valley feeds in to where the proposal for residential land would be. It is not very far away. By situating housing in such an area, you are making a decision which will come back to haunt either the people who live there or the people who work in the industrial areas. The government should reconsider its decision and put it out for community comment. I am not opposed to the government opening up more land for housing. That is exactly what is needed, but the Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan and the Northern Territory Planning Scheme clearly identify Weddell as the next area for residential land.
Some people say: ‘What is your vision?’ That has been asked of me a few times on a couple of issues. My vision is to try to retain the beauty of the harbour where possible. That is what is different about Darwin; we have a harbour that is basically in its natural state. We have a harbour that people use for fishing and for tourism operations, the Larrakia people use it for hunting, yet to some extent we seem intent on destroying the Middle Arm section of our harbour when we really have not had sufficient debate about whether we can use other land.
I received a letter today from the Chief Minister because I asked in the Estimates Committee about the suitability of the Howard Peninsula for general industry. The Chief Minister said that the land to the north and east of the peninsula adjoining Howard River is in private hands and for community purposes, which is a reference to two small leases; one belonging to Billy Boustead, and one belonging to Dixie who runs the Shoal Bay Hire Service. They are only very small blocks of land for a specific purpose and industry, unless it is right on their back door, is not going to affect those two portions of land. In fact, by bringing industry in there, it is more than likely those two blocks might have official road access. At present, neither block has official road access. The former Minister for Lands and Housing knows how we tried to get some maintenance done on the road to Shoal Bay to the boat hire service and that failed because basically the minister said there is no road there. By putting some development in there, I imagine infrastructure such as roads would accompany it, and that would help those two private landowners.
Regarding the rest of this area that I asked about on the Howard River Peninsula, the Chief Minister said it abuts Department of Defence land. Yes, but that is an enormous piece of land. It already has its own buffers. The letter says:
That is exactly right, but for some reason, we are not even talking about that area. It is the old quarry area. The area past that is what we call the extractive mining area, not the quarrying area, and it has plenty of room. The last thing the Chief Minister said is that the area contains large tracts of low lying land subject to storm surge and Wet Season inundation.
Again, this parcel of land, the Howard Peninsula, is quite large. If it is subject to inundation, so is the whole of Middle Arm because it is surrounded by the sea. That is not a fair indication of that parcel of land. I suggest it is looked at again. With the right buffers and protection of the two creeks that run through that area, it could be used for future industrial land instead of the middle of the harbour.
There is a lot of talk about having development in the middle of the harbour because it is close to residential land and the port. The Howard Peninsula is actually closer to residential land and the port. The Howard Peninsula is about half the distance to the port and the residential land is Palmerston. You would drive up the extension of Temple Terrace, which is proposed in the maps, and you would be there. You would not be taking lots of heavy vehicles through the township, which is what will happen to Middle Arm. Middle Arm uses the Elrundie Road to get from the Middle Arm Peninsula through to the port, which means there will be all sorts of freight passing through the outskirts of Palmerston.
There has been much discussion about whether there should be a transfer station at Marlow Lagoon because of the rubbish and that sort of material, but there will a lot more heavy industry moving through the area between Marlow and the suburbs of Palmerston if Middle Arm Peninsula goes ahead whereas if there was development at Howard Peninsula, heavy traffic through a residential area would be avoided.
Of course, the other option is Berrimah Farm. The government has said it is going to be housing. I was talking to a person who owns land at the port, and he said it makes commonsense for that to be industrial. It is right next to the port. It is straight into the port so transport costs are lower and you are not going through residential land. It is already partially developed as industrial. It has the prison nearby and has approaches to the airport over some of the area.
We are not short of residential land. We have all of Weddell; there is heaps of land at Weddell. I do not know why we all of a sudden make this left-hand turn halfway along our planning route. We have the Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan. There are some things in there that I occasionally disagree with, like damming the rivers, but the idea behind the Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan was to have some discrete townships around the harbour. Something that changed that, of course, was the Kenbi land claim, but it has not stopped it all together.
We were going to have Darwin, Palmerston, Weddell and there were, I think, two more towns to go up on the Cox Peninsula. The government is talking about developing Cox Peninsula. I went to a Property Council meeting just recently and the CEO of the Department, Rod Applegate, had a paper of which I have a copy. It says: Weddell or Cox Peninsula?
What are we doing? Are we getting rid of Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan or are we sticking with it? Are we using planning because it is a good idea at the time? I hope we do not start to engage in ad hoc planning. There has been a lot of work go into the development of Darwin Harbour. There has been a lot of work go into development of the whole region. Once we start to make major changes, I have to ask the government: are you working on an ad hoc basis for development or are we going to have a chance to review the Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan so we can all participate in how we think Darwin should develop?
Maybe this government is changing its mind, but I have always been under the impression that Darwin will be separated from Palmerston by a mixture of industrial, conservation, residential and Defence land, and the next area of Weddell would be surrounded by rural residential land. As you went further around, the same thing so we would not have a sprawling metropolis like the big cities; we have something akin to Canberra where you have the three cities developed with rural areas in between. In this case, the centrepiece of the development of Darwin will be Darwin Harbour.
When I mention Weddell every now and then, I do not get any bites. It makes me wonder if the government has given up on Weddell. If it has not, what is the time line? All of a sudden we have introduced Berrimah Farm. Why? Why would you want to put a school and a shopping centre there when you know that we are going to develop Weddell as a fully fledged city?
I get the impression of jigsaw planning. Here is a spot that looks good; we will fill that up. I hope that we look at planning in more depth with more vision. I hope we heed the notion of sustainable development because development we undertake now that stops something else or costs future generations money is certainly not good development. In the case of Berrimah Farm, we really have to think again. It is not a huge amount of land when you look at how much the prison takes out, and when you put Tiger Brennan Drive through the bottom of it. Its use is fairly limited. Considering most of it is already industrial and close to the port, you would have thought that was the obvious thing.
Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, the government has the power to do what it likes. It has started to make major changes to the Litchfield Planning Concept, as it has done with Glyde Point and Middle Arm. It has made changes to the port that go against the Northern Territory Planning Scheme, and if you have a look at it, you will see what has been designated. You could pick up a copy of the zonings for an idea of what is already in existence. I say to the government: do not go down this path. If you think it is the right way to go, at least put it out for community consultation. There has been no community consultation, no meetings, nothing. At least that would be a start in making sure the decisions about this area are the right decisions. Certainly ad hoc, five-minute decisions about land that has question marks about it is not the way to go if we believe in sustainable development.
Mr VATSKALIS (Casuarina): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I would like to speak of a wonderful senior citizen in my electorate, Mrs Mona Adams, who recently celebrated her 80th birthday with a huge party at the Italian Club. I was disappointed not to be there because I was away. Mona celebrated at her party with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many friends.
Mrs Adams was born Mona Poline Adams in Darwin on 28 September 1927, to parents Basilia and Victor Lee Ying. Her great-grandfather, Jack Leonard, was a white American, and great-grandmother Annie a Jawoyn woman. Her grandmother, Polina, was raised in the Methodist Mission at the time when mixed race children were taken away from their natural Aboriginal mothers. Polina married a Filipino, Valeriano Angeles, and they raised their two children in Darwin.
Mona’s father was a Chinese, Thomas Lee Ying, who immigrated to Australia when he was a young boy. Mona grew up as a toddler in the streets of Chinatown in Cavenagh Street where her father’s family owned a general store. Mona left school at Grade 5 so that she could help earn money for the family. She did domestic duties and helped her mum doing other people’s laundry. Her mother, Basilia, after divorcing her first husband, married Joseph Cardona, and Mona’s brothers and sisters were Peter, Dolores, Primo, Martin, Thomasa and Margaret Cardona.
In January 1942, just weeks before the Japanese bombed Darwin, the whole family was evacuated to Cairns. It was there that she met and married Charles Adams. Charles was born at Thursday Island, and his maternal ancestors were the Yadhaykenu people of Cape York and Prince of Wales in the Torres Strait. His father was from Batavia in Indonesia.
Mona and Charles returned to Darwin in 1949 where they have since lived and raised their 13 children. The family lived at Parap Camp, sharing one hut with the rest of Mona’s family before being allocated their own hut in Luxton Street, next door to Christodoulou’s store.
Mona wanted her children to be educated to have a better future. The only way for that to happen was for them to be educated and get decent jobs. She also provided a home for the many young men from Thursday Island who worked on the pearling luggers at the time and became their ‘Sis’ or ‘Mum’.
She suffered the heartache of losing her daughter Sarina at aged 13 months, but battled on to support her other 12 children.
In later years, when Parap Camp was demolished, the family moved to Rapid Creek. When most of her children had left school and married, she got a job at Darwin Hospital at Larrakeyah to help bring in some money. After Cyclone Tracy, they were evacuated to Cairns. As her four youngest children settled into school, and her husband found it difficult to get a job, Mona went to work at the Cairns Base Hospital to support her family.
When the family came back to Darwin, they moved to a new house in the suburb of Tiwi, and Mona worked for Royal Darwin Hospital where she remained until she retired. In retirement, she looked after her grandchildren, which gave her children the opportunity to better themselves and achieve their goals. She did share quality time with her husband and her mum, before she suffered more heartache when her mum was killed in a car accident. Being the battler that she is, she soldiered on, caring, sharing and loving all her family, including her brothers and sisters and their families.
She and Charles became even closer and attended senior citizens’ activities and functions. They had a wide circle of friends, many of whom helped them celebrate their Golden Wedding anniversary in July 1994. A year later, Charles was diagnosed with cancer and Mona became his nurse, caring for him until he passed away in December 1995. Since then, she has tried to be mother and father to her children, being there for them in their times of struggle and sharing their achievements.
She rarely says a bad word about anyone, and wants to know everyone. She is quick to give everyone a hug or a kiss. Mona is a battler who has contributed greatly to the development of Darwin through her family, employment and helping others. Her greatest achievement has been to teach her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren discipline, courtesy and respect for themselves and others.
There is so much discussion today about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children not being educated. Mona’s children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren have university degrees and include two doctors, and Master of Education, teachers and business owners. Many of them have also been successful in sport. It was through her struggles to discipline and educate her children, and instilling in them the need for education, that they have achieved their goals. Happy birthday, Mona. She is a great person, a great woman in Tiwi and a very good friend.
Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I would like now to speak of people who received a 2007 Pride of Australia Award. One of them, Susan Bartlett, is my constituent and has been in the Territory for the past 39 years. She is married to a now retired police officer, Paul, and they have three children. Now they have three grandchildren, with another two on the way.
Their lives have revolved around family and friends, work, church and community. Mateship begins with the family, and she and Paul have learnt what it means to stick together when the going gets tough. She has worked as a Special Needs Support Officer at Sanderson High School for the past 21 years, and enjoys working with students with special needs in assisting them to access the curriculum and enter the workforce.
Receiving this award caused her to reflect on what it is that she has done to deserve it, and she can honestly say she has done nothing extraordinary. Throughout her life, she has lived by the motto that in the end, all that matters is how you have loved others, not how much material wealth you have acquired. Mother Teresa inspired her with her Mission of Mercy to the poorest of the poor. She identifies with the marginalised, lonely and isolated in our communities, and has helped wherever she can to alleviate their suffering.
Some years ago, she coordinated Darwin Community Care, providing meals, food and clothing for hundreds of Darwin families who were struggling to make ends meet. Since then, she has been supporting people who have been sick and lonely in their homes, doing what she can to help. Currently, she is the Regional Coordinator for Operation Christmas Child across the Territory. Sanderson High School is the collection centre for shoe box gifts, and hundreds of gifts are pouring in for this program at the moment. Last year, 7 600 000 gifts were distributed to children throughout the globe in areas where children are suffering from war and famine. The families of the Northern Territory are the most extravagant givers and she counts it a privilege to work for this organisation in Darwin.
Sue hopes that, in the future, she can continue to work with children who are disabled, and plans to work in China with these precious children through the International China Concern.
She dedicated this award to her dad, Les, who passed away this year from lung cancer. Her dad taught her what it means to be a mate, a loyal friend and someone who is willing to go that extra mile. Her dad always put others first and was always there for his neighbours, friends, and family. He was a staunch union leader who worked tirelessly to gain the working conditions that we enjoy today. Her dad suffered greatly through World War II, and he suffered from alcoholism. He knew what it was to lose his family and friends to this disease.
Mateship is a fantastic Australian word that stands for support and friendship, hope and caring, compassion and willingness to be there for others. Sue is honoured to receive the award in order to honour those who are in need of a mate. You are our nation’s hero and you are the Pride of Australia. I congratulate Sue, who well deserves this award in the category of Mateship.
Another person who is a caring person is Christine Bach. Christine Bach came to Australia for the first time in 1993. She had just finished her Masters Degree in Germany and her dad decided to give her this trip as a present. She spent five wonderful weeks travelling around Australia, including Darwin, and had a very memorable time in Kakadu. She fell in love with the Top End and its environment and decided to come back. The same year, she spent two months in Kakadu as a volunteer, where she had an unforgettable time working with rangers and scientists exploring this beautiful country. While in Darwin, she inquired at the then NTU about PhD scholarships and decided to apply. The incredible happened and she won the scholarship.
Even her two months in Kakadu had not prepared her for what she encountered in her first Wet Season of field work in the monsoon rainforests. The completely inexperienced German spent many hours digging cars and quad bikes out of bog holes and being eaten by mossies and leeches. A close encounter with the crocodile in Black Jungle Reserve was an appropriate finale to her field work.
She graduated with a PhD in October 1998, and was offered a position at the Department of Lands, Mining and Environment to develop a monitoring system for the Mary River floodplains, incorporating remote sensing technology. It was, again, a very challenging task and involved many weeks out on the floodplains establishing monitoring sites and collecting data. She loved the helicopter and airboat rides. Every time she talked to her friends and family in Germany, they were blown away by her stories and pictures.
Even though she loved the ecological field work and being out bush, she felt that she did not want to continue a research career in which one spent endless hours in front of computers analysing data and being pressured into writing publications. She followed her desire to work with people and became a house parent at Kormilda College. She loved working with the kids. That was when she decided to do yet more study to become a teacher. Luckily, she received a scholarship for her Graduate Diploma and finished it at the end of 2004.
She spent her first year at Kormilda College and then changed to Dripstone High School. This last year has been very challenging, with all the changes to middle schools and suddenly she found herself teaching a subject that she was not trained in and knew very little about. Christine says that even though teaching is the most exhausting and demanding job she ever had, she loves being a teacher and she has never regretted her decision to change careers.
Ever since she was a child, she has been passionate about animals and the environment. She became involved in animal welfare and environmental organisations when she was a teenager and student in Germany. After she had finished her PhD, she started to get involved in working with the Environment Centre, Landcare and RSPCA. She also very much enjoyed her role as a volunteer in four Arafura Games. In the 2001 games, she was part of the NT Athletics team and competed in javelin. She is now looking forward to the 2009 games in her role as Athletics Official and Ambassador for the Information Booth.
In 2003, she began to visit Tracy Aged Care Nursing Home with her dog Daisy. These visits have given her great pleasure and joy, and it is very rewarding to think that Christine and Daisy might brighten someone’s day just a little. Christine works at Dripstone with my wife. I know her personally and I congratulate her on her Pride of Australia Award for 2007.
Another person who is a teacher is Judith O’Hearn, nee Green, OAM. She is a primary school teacher, long-term public servant and a local woman, a Territorian, born and bred. She was a classroom teacher at Moil Primary School. She was also at the Sport Health and Physical Education School in the late 1990s and early 2000. She taught disability sports in schools, worked with teachers to run programs for all kids, including those with a disability, a tireless worker developing broad community understanding of people with a disability. She worked for a period of time in local government overseeing the Water Safety Advisory Council and contributed to the development of the Northern Territory government’s current water safety plan.
She made a submission to the recent Northern Territory Government Disability Review and currently is a Career Advisor at Darwin High School. She has a physical disability because she had an operation which left her paraplegic and with a severe hearing loss as well. She is married and has a young son who is now two-and-a-half years old. She received a Pride of Australia 2007 Award. Judith is a very good swimmer and her career highlights include:
2000 Paralympic Swimming Team;
2000 Paralympic Games Gold Medallist in 100m breaststroke S6 class;
2000 Paralympic Games, came 8th in the 400m freestyle S7 class;
in 2001, went to the Australian Open National Swimming titles;
in May 2001, achieved the World Record in the SB6 class 50m breaststroke at the Arafura Games;
in June 2001 in Phoenix, Arizona, she broke the SB6 class 200m breaststroke world record by 8 seconds;
in December 2001, was in the Australian team that travelled to the World Championships in Argentina. She won gold in the 100m breaststroke in the SB6 class;
she held the world record for the 50m and 200m breaststroke and the third fastest 100m time in the SB6 class in 2002;
she received an NTIS scholarship from 1999 to 2002;
she received the Sportsperson of the Year Award in 1999;
she received the International Athlete of the Year Award in 2000;
she received the International Athlete of the Year Individual Sport 2001 and 2002 Northern Territory Institute of Sport Awards; and
in 2001 on Australia Day, she was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for services to sport as a gold medallist at the Paralympic Games in Sydney in 2000.
Congratulations to Judith, Christine and Sue for these fantastic achievements. We are really proud to know you and really proud that you are Territorians.
Aussie Racing Cars is Australia’s newest, affordable and exciting racing category and is fast becoming the most recognisable form of motor sport in the country. The huge fields of these immaculate little cars competing at high speed on all the well-known race circuits across five states of Australia is creating thrills and excitement the likes of which have never been witnessed before. The small size of the cars enables thrilling, four-wide braking, overtaking and slipstreaming duels that have become synonymous with the appeal of Aussie Racing Cars and represents a new era of excitement and colour into the hugely popular motor sport arena.
It is the first time in the history of Australian motor sport that an entire category of identical cars has been developed with such success and on such a mammoth scale. The philosophy of the Aussie Racing Cars is to assure that it is managed for the maximum benefit and enjoyment of all competitors and, to this end, it has been hugely successful in that it affords a level of camaraderie from rookie drivers through to those with major experience under their belt, which is not always the case in other racing categories.
AVESCO, which is V8 Supercars Australia, are well aware of the impressive growth and public acceptance of the Aussie Racing Car category as it is starting to take the motoring world by storm and it is becoming clear that the category was designed to become a major attraction at big events. In recognising their newfound popularity, Aussie Racing Cars are a support class to the V8 Supercars at most race tracks around Australia.
The Aussie Racing Car combines current racing technology and performance in a one design class where all cars are mechanically identical with strict rules in place to maintain that position. Four different body styles cater for all tastes: classic Ford and Holden body style for the nostalgia buffs and Falcon and Commodore body styles, which replicate the V8 Supercars, and all in approximately half size.
Cars are constructed on a purpose-built steel tubular space frame chassis with integral roll cage construction designed and approved to stringent engineering specifications. The light weight composite body is a faithfully designed image of its full-size counterpart, featuring opening doors, boot and lift-off front section, powered by a 1.2 litre 125 BHP twin cam 16 valve engine that revs to 11 500 revs per minute. The performance is, I am told, exhilarating.
The 450 kg all-up weight provides an incredible power to weight ratio that allows the little machine to rocket to a speed of well in excess of 200 km/h. The lap times achieved are staggering. At Oran Park, for example, the cars lap within six seconds of a V8 Supercar.
Eighteen-year old racing enthusiast from Alice Springs Bradley Connor is one who has enthusiastically embraced this sport and he is the only Northern Territory Aussie Racing Car entrant. Bradley started Aussie Car Racing in March this year when he debuted at the Clipsal in Adelaide. He then competed in Melbourne during the Grand Prix, at Sandown in September and looks forward to competing in the Lexmark Indy 300 on the Gold Coast from 18, which is today, to 21 October. I am sure all members join with me in wishing Bradley the best of luck.
Bradley Connor comes from a family steeped in racing. He is the grandson of pioneering horse trainer Nev Connor, a man well known and highly regarded in Alice Springs. He is the son of Tony and Cathy Connor who are, apart from being lovely people, are very successful business people in their own right. I know that they have provided ongoing support to Bradley.
Bradley has a long history of involvement in motor sports, having started racing go karts on dirt tracks at seven years of age. Bradley has competed in the Northern Territory, South Australian and Western Australian events over the past 10 years. He has won numerous title events and competes in three classes of go Kart: KT Twins; 125cc Lights; and KT Lights. The transition from dirt to bitumen proved to be a steep learning curve for Bradley. In the first few races in which he participated, in a field of 48 to 50 cars, he usually finished mid-field. However, at a recent race at Oran Park, he proudly finished in 15th position, and in September at the Sandown 500 round in Victoria, he finished 10th. Bradley attributes his Sandown success to good advice from experienced drivers on the circuit and a cool head on race day. Well done, Bradley.
Having completed Year 12 at St Philip’s College in 2006, Bradley is currently on his gap year. In 2008, he has been accepted at Adelaide University to study a Bachelor of Commerce. Bradley hopes to continue racing and combine his study and passion for motor sports as the events are usually staged on weekends. Aussie Car Races are televised on a dedicated half-hour program on Fox Sport after each meeting and Aussie Cars are also televised on Asian and European TV.
Mr Deputy Speaker, for those who have cable TV, you might see some Aussie car racing and recognise Alice Springs enthusiast Bradley Connor. Good luck to Bradley with his studies in 2008. I am sure all members of the Northern Territory parliament will join with me in wishing him every success in the Lexmark Indy meet today and over the next few days.
I take this opportunity of tabling for the permanent Parliamentary Record of the Northern Territory a photograph of Bradley’s car. It is written, Bradley Connor, Number 54. This is the car to watch, Mr Acting Deputy Speaker and members. This is the car that we will see on our television screens with Alice Springs young man Bradley Connor in it.
Leave granted.
Ms CARNEY: Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I now wish to raise some other matters which have arisen in my electorate in recent times. One is the ongoing problem of people, unfortunately, not being able to get through to the police station. We do not for a moment say that the police are not doing their job, however what we do say is that more police need to be in Alice Springs to assist with the demands.
A constituent came to my office recently. I cannot be 100% certain, but I believe she used the 131 number. She advised my electorate officer she was on hold for 45 minutes, and her husband tried on a previous occasion on the same day or night, and he was apparently on hold for 30 minutes. This is not a satisfactory situation.
The week before last, I was advised of another Alice Springs resident who dialled 000. He tells me that the phone rang out. He tells me that he kept trying and eventually the number, which I believe was 000, although on a subsequent call, he may have tried the 131 number, he was diverted to Katherine. He was pretty cranky. I have outlined just a couple of his attempts to phone.
The bottom line is this: if the people of Alice Springs cannot get through to the police, then that is an almighty problem for government, and I will come back to that. It is important, for the sake of the Parliamentary Record, to go back to this issue when it was raised at the parliamentary sittings in Alice Springs in April this year. Members will recall that, over the period of two Question Times, the issue of the police communications system came up at some length. On 18 April, I asked a question about a man called Harry Osborne, who rang the local police station six or seven times shortly before that date and could not get through. He received some media attention as a result. He was furious. He rang my home late at night.
When we asked that question of the Minister for Police, the minister gave us a bit of a lecture on what telephone numbers people should use. He, that is the former Police minister, minister Burns, somewhat patronisingly said there was a 131 444 number which directs people through Telstra. He also told people to ring the 000 number in cases of emergency. He indicated people should use those numbers. He said:
On 19 April, I directed a question to the Chief Minister. I thought it was outrageous then, and I still think it is now, in typical fashion, the Chief Minister handballed to the police. Instead of taking responsibility for this issue herself, she referred to Superintendent Sean Parnell. She said that there was a technical issue, and said:
It is completely unsatisfactory that the people of Alice Springs have been placed in this position. They love their police. We all love the policemen and women in Alice Springs. Even they are saying, as I am advised by some of the people who eventually get through: ‘There is not much we can do’. This is not a police problem; it is a government problem. For the Chief Minister to say:
on 19 April this year raises the question as to whether it has actually arrived. I formally invite the Chief Minister to respond either to me or to the people of Alice Springs. Please tell us if it has arrived. If it has arrived, what are the problems? If she cannot outline what the problems are, will she find out? Will the Chief Minister ensure that the people of Alice Springs can get through to the police when they need their assistance?
I said on commercial radio today I was likely to raise this matter in parliament. I have done so. It is on the Parliamentary Record. None of us want to see this situation continue. It is a government responsibility. We have heard relatively little from the new Minister for Police. I would expect that when she is in Alice Springs next week, she should make some inquiries. She should know already, but since it appears that she did not have much of an idea in April, it is unlikely that she will have much of an idea now. She should make some inquiries and find out what the story is. She should then issue a media release, if she is courageous enough to do so, saying to the people of Alice Springs: ‘I can assure you, people of Alice Springs, that you can, with confidence, ring the numbers we, as the government, want you to ring and you will get through’.
This is 2007 in a significantly big community as far as the Northern Territory goes. They have every right to pick up the phone and get the police. That is my challenge to Chief Minister as Minister for Police. I sincerely invite her to take it up. I do not want to be here in the next sitting talking about how the problem has not been resolved.
Mr BURKE (Brennan): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, tonight I speak in relation to the Building Better Hospitals statement made by the Minister for Health earlier in the sittings. I welcomed the statement.
Territorians deserve to be kept up to date through regular reports on what is happening in the various government departments. Health is one of the most important government service delivery areas. The opposition asks, on many occasions and sometimes with great theatrics: what the government has done with the extra money from GST? Well, the total for the Territory budget is $3.3bn. The minister advised in his speech that $838m of it is spent in the health sector, a 73% increase in health spending since Labor came to government. As the minister said in his statement, there have been an extra 115 medical and 318 nursing full-time equivalent positions since 2001.
Health is a curious sector inasmuch as improvements in treatments often mean an increase in costs of those treatments. The price of health care is rising all the time. The recent report by state and territory Health ministers dated June 2007 called Caring For Our Health? A report card on the Australian government’s performance on health care says at page 22 to 23:
The report at page 23 also mentions that the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare is of the view that health prices should be adjusted by a figure higher than the inflation rate. The report continues:
The report quantifies the shortfall as at $1.1bn per year. The Northern Territory, with a budget of about $3.3bn, has a 73% increase in spending on Health and Community Services since 2001. The Australian government reduced its spending.
The present Australian government is the greatest revenue collector of any Australian government we have had. It has increased the amount it takes from Australians while reducing the services it provides. The opposition can howl about lower personal tax rates but the Australian government collects more revenue than any Australian government. Forget the GST. That is minuscule compared with the revenue the Australian government collects and reserves for itself. It is not collecting the money through company tax. There is only one group of people it is getting the revenue from and that group is the Australian taxpayer regardless of so-called personal income tax reduction.
The NT government’s efforts to improve the NT health system have been recognised by the Australian government’s report this year, State of our Public Hospitals. As the Minister for Health said, it recognises that we are able to provide 3.6 beds per 1000 of population against a national average of 2.6. Further, we are spending $1407 per person per year compared with a national average of $665.
All our public hospitals are accredited. Only three jurisdictions can make this claim and it is a fantastic claim to be able to make. I am well aware of the work that is required across all areas of a health facility to gain accreditation. It is not just standards of medical and nursing care that are scrutinised. Administration processes, food services, hygiene procedures, security and many others are brought under the accreditation team’s microscope. I was pleased to hear the minister speak about an urgent review of safety and security services at Royal Darwin Hospital.
Most of us probably do not naturally think of the important service that security officers provide at a hospital, yet so much could not be done without these officers. A hospital is a concentration of a considerable number of people in a relatively small area, and those people are often dealing with extreme personal stresses, dealing with a loved one who is sick in hospital or themselves sick and in hospital. Security officers at our hospitals do a great job ensuring smooth day-to-day running.
I would also like to recognise those employed as cleaners at the hospitals, those in the catering areas, those involved in ensuring all the surgical and other equipment is sterilised, those employed in the physical classifications. They are all people vital to our hospitals gaining and maintaining accreditation and the comfort of patients, just as much as medical and nursing staff.
We need to bear in mind that increases in patient population require not only increases in nurses and medical practitioners, surgeons, specialists and the like; it requires that numbers of the cleaners and those providing food services and sterilisation of equipment also be monitored and increased as demand dictates.
The people in these areas are often long-term employees at the hospitals so I ask the minister to ensure that he and his department are appropriately recognising the massive contributions of these individuals in all these areas, many of whom have worked 10, 15 and even 20 years with the one hospital.
The minister mentioned the huge workload of the Accident and Emergency unit. It is a phenomenal workload. I used to have to go to the Accident and Emergency at Royal Darwin Hospital when I was a kid. Now that I have children of my own, I find I have occasion to go back. Accident and Emergency has always been busy. Whichever public hospital you go to, Accident and Emergency is a whirlwind of activity. You always know that you are in for a wait when you attend the Accident and Emergency department. This is not a complaint, but recognition that it is an area that is always busy. Nurses and doctors put in a fantastic effort, often under very trying circumstances.
One of the reasons for the busyness of the Accident and Emergency department is the reducing number of general practitioners who are bulkbilling. Medicare is a federal government responsibility. It is an area the federal government has been removing funds from since it came to power. All over the country, people are experiencing this removal of resources from Medicare. Other than perhaps a couple of the extremely large metropolitan capital cities, people are finding it harder and harder to attend bulkbilling general practitioners.
The member for Blain often wants to hit up the Territory government about lack of GP services in Palmerston, but he does nothing to attack the federal government and it is the federal government that has responsibility for this area. He refused to sign the petition that I helped organise calling on the federal government to commit resources to after-hours GP services in Palmerston.
Just recently, Dave Tollner and the Howard government finally announced that they would fund an after-hours GP service in Palmerston. At the time I was running the petition calling for after-hours GP services to go to the Senate with Trish Crossin, and the member for Drysdale was also involved, I wrote to the federal minister asking him to look favourably on an application from any Palmerston practice for the federal government’s round-the-clock funding. What did the federal government do in response? It made one award of funding, and that was to a practice in Darwin, not Palmerston.
I also wrote to Julia Gillard as Shadow Minster for Health, and this was before she was Deputy Leader of the federal ALP and when Kim Beazley was still its leader. A media release soon issued from Julia Gillard’s office committing to funding an after-hours GP clinic in Palmerston. This was not an election commitment. No election was in the winds at that stage. It was recognition that the federal government has responsibility for this area and it met that recognised need. The CLP and the federal Coalition are still in catch up mode.
I was impressed that when Kevin Rudd recently came to Darwin, he made a point of visiting Palmerston. I note Howard has not yet made it past the Berrimah Line. Kevin Rudd has announced a $2bn Commonwealth commitment to health across the country. He has also spoken of working in conjunction with the states and territories. When Kevin Rudd was in Palmerston, he announced a $10m fund for a Palmerston super clinic to provide 24 hour GP services. It was a welcome announcement, an acknowledgement that if the Labor Party wins government at the federal level, it will stop cost shifting to the states and territories and accept the obligation that all federal governments prior to Howard’s have always accepted.
Such an initiative will take pressure off the Accident and Emergency Department at Royal Darwin Hospital. Palmerston families will be able to attend the local clinic instead of driving to Royal Darwin Hospital. I certainly hope that federal Labor wins the next election. Partisan politics aside, Labor will simply deliver more for Palmerston; $10m for a super clinic, resources for another childcare facility in Palmerston, and priority for such a facility, and funding for the Tiger Brennan bypass. The priority that Labor has provided to initiatives in Palmerston is way out in front compared with the Howard government’s lacklustre concern for Palmerston families.
We all know that emergency services are different from GP services. The member for Drysdale and I have run a number of community forums in Palmerston asking what Palmerston residents would like to see. Without fail, emergency health services located in Palmerston was raised at every meeting. Some referred to a mini-hospital, others called it an annexe of Royal Darwin Hospital. I say to the minister that I do not know what the proper name is, but the call from Palmerston residents is clear. They want a facility in Palmerston that removes the need to get to RDH as the only option in an emergency situation. People recognised that a full service large hospital, while desirable, was probably not justifiable at this stage of the development of Palmerston and the rural area. However, the development of an annexe or a mini-hospital, whatever you want to call it, would further relieve pressure from Royal Darwin Hospital’s Accident and Emergency.
The people of Palmerston have raised this as a genuine concern. I believe rural area residents would also use such a facility and would support the call. As a representative of Palmerston, I ask that the Minister for Health, the Chief Minister, other members of Cabinet and my colleagues give this matter serious consideration and I hope you will look upon this request from the people of Palmerston favourably. Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I commend the Minister for Health’s statement to the Assembly.
In closing, I acknowledge the great work that His Honour Ted Egan and Ms Nerys Evans have made to the Territory. It has been a massive contribution.
Ms ANDERSON (Macdonnell): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, today I recognise the community of Santa Teresa and its achievements in winning the Army Community Division of Defence Jobs AFL final at TIO Stadium. The win elevated Santa Teresa above 14 community teams across the Northern Territory, all competing for a chance to play at the MCG. They won all seven games with an unbeaten record.
Football is a mighty sport of the Territory. In many respects, it is the primary thread of our social fabric and it connects us across the diversity of all Territorians. It crosses geographical and cultural boundaries that extend from the islands in the north to the heart of Australia in the south, and all the towns, communities and cities in between.
Some teams in the Territory consist of players who hardly know each other, whilst others consist of players who have known each other their whole lives. A number of teams in urban and regional areas are built on a long and proud tradition spanning many generations. They are teams which have produced national talent, and a number of Territorians have played a substantial part in AFL grand final wins.
Football is an important part of promoting one’s community. In places such as Alice Springs, cars pass through with their team’s colours painted on the sides, with flags and other promotions on full display. Big games bring whole familles and old friends together. In many communities and for many people, football represents the conduit to healthy and active living. It leads to recognition of a person’s ability and commitment and demonstrates to individuals how hard work and determination can produce valued results.
Football also demonstrates how teams work together. It teaches people that relationships are important, and that looking out for one another is an important part of who we are. What is learnt on the football field can be applied outside the oval in workplace environments, in families and general social relationships. This is how football is such an important platform for so many people.
The local Aboriginal Community Police Officer, Philip Ellis, coaches the young Santa Teresa team. Many people in this Chamber recognise Mr Ellis as the voice and feature of a Territory advertisement campaign calling on visitors to Alice Springs to respect the alcohol restrictions in town. The Northern Territory News records the enormity of the win as the expression on Mr Ellis’ face at the point of realising a secured win. It is testament to a very proud community, a community which deserves praise and credit for its achievements.
Mr Ellis acknowledges why the Santa Teresa team performed so well. That is that they trained at 3 pm each day in Central Australia so they could prepare for the Darwin heat. Together, the team recognised that they needed to train hard and that they could do so with innovative ideas such as this. They recognised that with their determination and belief in themselves, each other and their community, they could train hard and prepare for a big game up north, some 1500 km away.
In particular, I congratulate Travis Ellis, the recipient of the Army Courage Award for the Most Courageous Player of the carnival, and Shane Mullerdad, the recipient of the Army Best Player Award for the most goals kicked throughout the carnival.
The trip to Melbourne will be an event remembered by all who attended for a very long time. It is a trip well deserved. It is with much pride and honour that I convey to this Assembly my congratulations to Santa Teresa, Coach Philip Ellis, all the players in the team and their families, and the community for the efforts and achievements of winning this important grand final. I hope Santa Teresa really shines at the MCG.
This evening, I want to put on the Parliamentary Record concerns we have with ANZAC Hill High School. I have spoken to the Education minister about this, and I thank him for his briefing. The minister is going to meet with the teachers on Monday, and I applaud you for that, minister. There are concerns. If we are doing things to schools, we need to be open and transparent and ensure we talk to the teachers, parents and the community of Alice Springs to ensure they know the rumours they are hearing are not true. Our teachers are important people; they are there to teach our children and not to stress out over whether the school is going to be closed down. The job of these teachers is to teach our children, not worry about closure of their school. As a government, we must allay all these fears. If it is scaremongering, we must assure the people of Alice Springs this will not happen. In Question Time, the member for Braitling raised this issue.
Alice Springs is an important service hub to many communities in my electorate. It is the economic hub of the region, and we love our little town, a town which connects all our families, black and white. We also love our sports. Lots of our children go to ANZAC Hill High School from communities, town camps and from rural blocks in Alice Springs. The member for Stuart’s sons go to that school.
Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, the teachers and staff of the school are highly committed. They deserve our support and I respect their right to know what is going on. These teachers are passionate about teaching students from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds and they are about tackling those additional challenges that face schools like ANZAC Hill High School. The teachers and staff of the school are proud of their achievements in creating pathways to employment and further training. These teachers are committed to this task and are confident in the potential of all young people who go to ANZAC Hill.
I want to make sure that if things are happening, as a community in Alice Springs, parents, teachers, we need to be informed so that Alice Springs can be confident that these things will not happen to them and that we have teachers actually teaching our kids and not worrying about schools being closed down.
Ms MARTIN (Fannie Bay): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, long-time Territorian and Fannie Bay constituent, Annette Millikins, recently turned 70. I take this opportunity to wish her a very happy birthday.
Annette was born in Dublin but wanted to come to Australia even as a very young girl. She arrived in Perth in 1963 and soon after moved to the Territory, and has been here ever since. Annette and her husband, Trevor, lived and worked around remote communities in the Territory. Annette was a social worker working in the area of child protection for over 30 years. Today, Annette remains active in the community, advocating for seniors accommodation, volunteering for St Vincent de Paul and participating in groups like the Parap Residents Association and the Fannie Bay History and Heritage Society.
To celebrate her birthday, Annette’s daughter, Maryclaire, hosted a garden tea party, inviting many of Annette’s friends along. It was supposed to be a surprise, but unfortunately someone spilled the beans. Sadly, I was interstate at the time and unable to attend, but it was a lovely afternoon according to reports, with no shortage of cakes, sandwiches, punch, tea and coffee. The best china and linen napkins came out for what was a good old-fashioned afternoon tea. Annette said she felt like a bride.
Those friends and family who celebrated with Annette included her daughter, Maryclaire; son, John and his wife, Clare, and their children, Christopher, Alice and Emily; Sabra Budden was responsible for making much of the wonderful food; Louise McKenna; Pat Fitzgerald; Mavis, Wayne and Brenda Lindon; Mary Woodrow; Dottie and Les Penhall; Brock and Jane Simon; Julie Baxter; Mary and Norm Fraser, along with Kate and her partner Chris; Philip Roberts and Justine Mickle; Juliet Murphy, and Gerri George. Happy birthday, Annette; it sounds like a wonderful afternoon.
Last month was Water Safety Month in the Territory and this year’s theme was Be Water Safety Wise. The first event was held at Leanyer Recreation Park on 1 September and I was pleased to officially launch Water Safety Month. More than 30 events and activities were conducted across Darwin, Katherine, Tennant and Alice Springs and, as you can imagine, there was plenty for children to do. I take this opportunity to announce the winners of three of the Territory-wide competitions.
The colouring competition attracted close to 500 entries. The winner of the five and over section was seven-year-old Alasdair McGregor from Wulagi; well done, Alasdair. There were 15 runner-ups which give you an idea of the high quality of the entries. Congratulations to Sophee Clark, Eden Gadil, Ruby Josif, Ayla McGavin, Robyn Matthews, Kimmie Henderson, Gabrielle Killalea, Brianna, Johanna, Vanni Ferreira, Tinnicka Alum, Allana Neave, Xavier, Dean Fry and Alyssa Mahony.
First place in the under five competition went to four-year-old Skye Whaleboat from Alawa and there were also 15 runners-up in this section. Well done to Kianne, Thomas Shepherd, Tiana Gaffney, Kaitlyn Anderson, James Ford, Jacob Brookhouse, Daniel Kuskie, Lucy ter Bogt, Isabella Humphreys, Ella Claydon, Danielle Clark, Peter Cairns, Gypsy Lay, Audrey Fryar and Jessie Quinell.
The Water Safety Wise CD competition saw some amazing karaoke water safety videos submitted by schools across the Territory. First place went to Peppimenarti where the teacher was Bree Whitford. The runners-up were Kiana School where Paul Gallagher was teaching, Sadadeen Primary School with teacher, Jo Holland; and Saint Philip’s College with teacher, Leigh Gorman.
Finally, the winner of the Water Safety Creek competition, which involved kids getting lots of stamps from different stalls and answering some questions about water safety, was Esther Cox, who is nine, and lives in Ludmilla. The runners-up were Kihana Leslie from Malak and Pakhorn Stubbin from Virginia. Well done to all of you.
The success Water Safety Month enjoyed would not have been possible without its sponsors. On behalf of us all, many thanks to the Royal Life Saving Society, that is Floss Roberts, Surf Life Saving NT, Tony and Julie Snelling, Darwin Harbour Fishing Charters, Karen and Rob Marchant, C-Max Cinema, Andrew Cripps, Ten Litchfield, Tim, McDonalds, Chris Horne, Darwin Snack Foods, Carlos Martins, Goldfish Bowl, Peter Brasher, Darwin City Council John Banks and Graham Oats, and Amateur Fishermen’s Association Chris Makepeace.
Finally this evening, the Top End Orienteers are an enthusiastic and energetic group of people who get their kicks by finding their way around unfamiliar territory using a map and compass. Participants select their own route around the course, and the aim is to find each of the controls or check points. It is a sport that combines good athletic ability with clear thinking skills. While it can be competitive with world championship events, it does not have to be. Some people like to take their time around the route, enjoying the bush scenery while they walk. People of all ages and fitness levels can do it. Sometimes they even hold bike events where competitors make their way around on two wheels. Another variation is Rogaining, which is long distance cross-country navigating day and night.
Top End Orienteers is a Darwin group and they hold one or two events each month in bush land areas around Darwin on short, medium and long courses. Luckily, most events avoid the harsh sun, starting at 7am and finishing by 11am. Top End Orienteers also hold social events as well as come-and-try events. This year, they held one on Australian Day at the Botanic Garden for newcomers to the sport. My Electorate Officer and her partner gave it a go and, by all accounts, it was a real test of their relationship. Luckily, it did not end their engagement; they have married since that event. I think they vowed never partner each other in another orienteering.
Other orienteering locations include Holmes Jungle, East Point, Manton Dam and Casuarina. I acknowledge the dedicated members of Top End Orienteers, long time loyalists and newcomers alike, and in particular those who play active role in keeping the club going. The President is Russell Willis; Secretary, Dave Rolland; Treasurer, Barbara O’Brien; newsletter editor, Susi Bertei and her family, a special mention of Kelly and young Oscar; the Mapping Officer is Jon Potter; Public Officer, Simon Saunders; Equipment Officer, Rose Baartz; Publicity Officer, Fiona Murphy; Results and Web Administrator, Loretta Hagan; Fundraising Officer, Nathan Gleed; Volunteer Coordinator, Tracey Campbell; Catering Coordinator, Leona Sullivan; and General Committee Member, John Baker. It is a great team and I congratulate them on their efforts.
Ms LAWRIE (Karama): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, tonight I congratulate Malak School, which is in the running for a national award. It is not the most usual award; it is an award that recognises the parents’ contribution to a school community. Having successfully marked its 25th birthday last year, the celebrations just keep coming for Malak Primary School.
The parents have been recognised for their efforts in working with staff and the community to create a vibrant, progressive school culture and rewarding learning experiences with the school’s council named the best in the Northern Territory in the first annual Australian Women’s Weekly Paradise Foods P and C Awards. This is breaking news because this information is embargoed, but I did get special permission from the school to acknowledge their achievements in the sitting this week.
The school’s industrious parents will receive a trophy and $2000 in prize money. They are in the running for the prestigious national title. The winner will be selected from eight state and territory finalists, and will be announced in a special ceremony in Sydney on Wednesday, 23 January next year. The winner collects a further $10 000.
I am advised that close to 200 entries were received for the awards, which aim to recognise and reward Australia’s hard-working parents and citizens associations backed by teams of parents who raised funds, help out in class, coach sports, advise principals and run canteens and after-school care. The panel of judges said Malak Primary School stood out amongst Northern Territory entrants because of the lengths parents, in concert with staff and the wider community, go to ensuring their children have the best education possible. Malak was described as:
They were described as having a strong sense of ownership, belonging and pride in the school from parents and teachers alike who are clearly united in making it the best it can be. Numerous hours have gone into planning and executing a wide range of fundraising events, from quiz nights, raffles, sausage sizzles, to a night under the stars family event, a spelling bee, and, of course, the fantastic 25th anniversary dinner.
The parents regularly roll up their sleeves to attend and help out with a wide variety of school activities, including sports days, interschool competitions, the fabulous Wakakirri National Story Festival, and the Eisteddfod. The wider community also gets involved, along with parliamentarians. The member for Sanderson and I got a nod for our assistance, and the Australian Defence Force visits the school regularly for assemblies and special events.
The parents committee started an innovative project to have healthy breakfasts through a special nutrition project called Fantastic Fruit and Veggie Friday, which encourages sound eating habits and after-school sporting activities to get students moving for fitness and fun. I have participated in these Fantastic Fruit and Veggie Fridays. I go to school assembly on Friday mornings, and I will be at Malak Primary School tomorrow for my regular school awards, and I am always pleased by the healthy food and environment.
I acknowledge the dedication and hard work of the School Council President. Chris Kelly is one of the hardest working, dedicated and innovative school chairs I have come across. I have to say, in terms of fund raising and innovative ideas for the school community, Donna Smith is an absolute stand out and deserves congratulations for the efforts she goes to for the school. I thank the school Patron, Henry Yap, the owner of Malak Shopping Centre. He contributes $5000 to the school each year. He is a fantastic Patron for the school. He turns up, and I know he gets particular pleasure at the annual Christmas school concert in handing out book prizes and the like to the students, so my congratulations to Henry Yap.
The Principal, Paul Nyhuis, is doing a fantastic job. He has followed on fromRussell Legg. He has to be one of the most outstanding principals in any public school we have in the Territory. I say that with absolute confidence; he is a stand out principal. We are very lucky to have him in our public system, having had experience in the private system at Kormilda College, and extensive middle schools experience in the United States. He is a local boy, born and raised in Darwin, and he is an absolute asset to our education system.
As I said, I will be at Malak School tomorrow to present literacy awards. I congratulate Jared McMillan, Adrian Hudson, Joshua O’Brien and Marina Tataglia on achieving literacy awards for the last two months. I have to say, Marina’s parents, the Tataglias, are very stalwarts of the school as well.
Congratulations, Malak School. You are up there, you are going to Sydney to take out that national prize, but you have won the top school in the Northern Territory for having the school’s hardest working group of parents. What a fantastic tribute.
Karama School end of term Endeavour Awards are always amazing. Karama School has such a strong ethos of understanding culture and the multicultural diversity of the school, have a hard-working staff and council and a fantastic Principal in Margaret Fenbury. The kids come from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds, but predominantly a lower one, and those kids get in there and take every advantage of their fine education at Karama School. Congratulations to this term’s Endeavour Award winners, to Jaden Allthrop, Jessica Murdoch, Joyce Thomas and Ebony Philpot. Well done; these are really well earned Endeavour Awards, and I hope you enjoy your vouchers.
As I said, we have a multicultural community in Karama and Malak and it is typified by the hub we have at Malak Shopping Centre. We have the Multicultural Council of the Northern Territory there, the broadcasters and recently we have seen a revitalisation of space at Malak Shopping Centre. Browns Mart has gone to the community with their Community Arts Program. Congratulations to Bong Ramilo. He is a fantastic man with a great understanding that arts is about people and the community. He does not see arts as top-down; he sees arts as developing from community up. They intend to establish an Internet caf there.
Browns Mart is reaching out to the community at the Chambers Crescent Theatre they are creating. They are encouraging the African migrants of the suburb to use the centre and to showcase their culture, which is a fantastic thing. I am really looking forward to the African contributions. I missed the community celebration of the arts opening at Malak, but I was reliably informed by the Arts minister that the African performances were outstanding. I was overseas at the time and could not get there. Everyone I have spoken to who attended that day said it was such an exciting and fun day. Congratulations to our proud African migrants who are really creating a community hub at Malak.
It stands in stark contrast to the despicable attitude of the federal government about African migrants. I am absolutely privileged and honoured to have worked alongside the African migrant families of Malak and Karama. Of course, the Sudanese have been singled out despicably by Kevin Andrews and the federal government. The Sudanese have to be some of the most hard-working and gentle people I have met. They are stalwarts of our community already in each of the schools where the kids are attending. They are harmonious and the families are involving themselves in the broader community. I feel very privileged to be a local member with so many African migrants living in the electorate. They are hard workers.
When Buslink said they were having trouble finding bus drivers, I said: ‘Have you tried the African migrants? You cannot go past them for their sheer work ethic and their reliability and loyalty to their employers’. Buslink took on my suggestion. I put them in contact with Frederica Gaskell at Anglicare. She runs a great settlement program for the African migrants. Frederica helped them source a few potential candidates. We now have two African bus drivers with careers established at Buslink. Buslink managers, the Hannons, have said: ‘Thank you for that. We think they are fantastic’. Kevin Andrews, you could not be more wrong if you tried, and you are a despicable and disgraceful parliamentarian.
Tonight, I want to acknowledge the very hard-working Islamic community. They are going to be celebrating at the mosque this weekend. It will be a fantastic Saturday night celebration at the Islamic Centre, for their very special Festival of Eid. They have a new executive committee, which has just been elected, so congratulations. I know many of the people on this committee and I find them to be insightful, well-educated, hard-working, humble and harmonious members of our community. I am privileged to be able to work for them and provide any assistance. At times, they use my electorate office for their newsletter requirements. I am very humbled by the fantastic friendships I have been able to form with many members of the Islamic community.
Congratulations to the new President, Ishfaq Haider, a tremendous man who is highly-educated. Anwar Lamaya is Vice-President, and is another fantastic constituent. Karama takes out the three top places on the Islamic executive. The Secretary, also a Karama constituent, is Mohammad Jillur Rahman, a very gentle, lovely man who has some exceptionally well-educated sons; they are achieving astounding feats at university. Agus Sudjoko is the Treasurer from Anula. Nazar Awan is the Coordinator of Government Grants and Projects from Nakara, so I am sure the Minister for Multicultural Affairs will be meeting Nazar on many occasions. Misbah Aman is the Coordinator of Youth, Sport and Government Grants and Projects and Education and is another Karama constituent. Umi Citra Rasmi is Coordinator of Women’s Issues and Khalid Nadeem is the Sports and Social Activities person.
Qumrunnessa Poppy Mustafa is a lovely, very gentle lady. I always feel happy when I see her. She is Coordinator of Women’s Issues and Multicultural Issues. Dawood Mohammed is Coordinator of the Food Bazaar and is Assistant Treasurer. Another of my constituents, Mazhar Khan Azan is the Sports Coordinator and is very well-known in sporting spheres. The Public Officer is Mohammad Jillur Rahman who is, as I said, a fantastic, gentle man. I feel very proud to know him. The Imam is Adama Konda, who is a fantastic Imam. He is very dedicated to teaching the children who respond so positively to the Imam. He is a very interesting man.
The Trustees are Dr Waqar Ahmad, Muhammad Nur Wibisono and Ashraf Qurashi. Congratulations to the Islamic Society of the Northern Territory which has a new Executive Committee. There is a lot of talents and knowledge on that committee.
I look forward to the Eid celebrations on Saturday at the Mosque. They are always very good. I have been watching with absolute pleasure and delight the current construction program going on at the Islamic Centre where they are building the very important wash facilities. The community has been striving for these for years. The Islamic Centre has been very grateful for the financial assistance provided by the Northern Territory government.
Every time they got closer to realising their dream, some hurdle would get in the way and they come back to the Territory government and we would find another way of helping them through the next hurdle. We were so close at one stage and, with the rain last Wet Season, the roof over the women’s prayer area gave way and they came to the government and urgently needed to repair the roof over the women’s prayer area, but if they used the funds they had, they would not have been able to proceed with their building project for which they finally had the approvals. At the time, I was Multicultural Affairs minister and I said: ‘I will give you the funding. Repair the roof straightaway. It is an urgent repair program and you will get the funding to make up. So proceed with the construction’. So it is good to see those wash facilities, which they really need. It is an important cultural practice after deaths in the Islamic community.
Congratulations to the incoming Executive Committee. I look forward to socialising with you as I have done over the years and to recognising what upstanding members of our society you are. As a community, they work very closely. Of course, many of our African migrants are Muslims, and I am sure that other Muslims in the community who have gone through a lot of hurt and angst through the nasty responses from the Howard government will be supporting our African migrants through the hard times at present.
We are fortunate; we are a diverse multicultural society. I feel incredibly privileged to be a representative of parliament from an area that is in the most multicultural diverse area in terms of people living in harmony in Malak and Karama. We are humbled by how hard-working and dedicated but how passionate they are as Territorians and Australians. It is a period of shame as a nation when you have your federal government saying terrible things about our migrants. I am glad that as a Territory parliament we have come together this week and united in support of the African Community. I am sure the Muslim community, the Islamic Centre, will be able to support our African migrants through this time of hardship and hurt.
Mrs MILLER (Katherine): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, yesterday the Chief Minister launched a pretty scathing attack on me in this House, and the Leader of the Opposition, about the arrangements of bringing gas onshore by ConocoPhillips. I will read from Hansard some of the things she said:
They are just some of the things that she said. Government members were critical and quite scathing yesterday. She said that there were no contracts that the CLP could refer to, and that I and the Leader of the Opposition had essentially misled the House. That is absolute rubbish.
During the negotiations to bring gas onshore, there was an attempt by Phillips, Shell and Woodside, as they were at the time, to share facilities. That is mainly the pipeline infrastructure to bring gas onshore. I can prove they were going to bring gas onshore for domestic purposes because they said so in their own PowerPoint presentation at the time. ‘Gas onshore’ included $1.1bn for pipelines for the domestic market. These pipes were going to go across the nation and this was really nation-building stuff. I have A Vision for Regional Natural Gas Development in the Timor Sea, which has the logos of Phillips, Woodside and Shell on the bottom and is dated 27 November 2000. Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I seek leave to table the document.
Leave granted.
Mrs MILLER: Mr Jamie Walls, the consortium spokesman, said at the time that there was an intention to bring gas onshore even if Shell decided to produce Greater Sunrise gas at sea because, as he said, there is a market for gas onshore and they would like to tap into that. The contractual arrangement between those partners was always negotiated with the supply of domestic gas in mind because the CLP knew that the Amadeus Basin was going to be empty in a few years.
When ConocoPhillips realised their Japanese customer, they decided to go it alone with Bayu-Undan and satisfy that customer with Shell and Woodside as their partners. Greater Sunrise was then shelved. All documentation at the time in all negotiations anticipated that there would be gas for domestic consumption.
I am going to read into Hansard a media release by former Chief Minister the Honourable Denis Burke dated 30 November 2000. It is headed Gas Agreement Paves Way For Darwin Project.
I will not read all of it, but I am going to pick some things from it that highlight that this was a plan:
The new Chief Minister’s job was easy: simply sign off on a deal which secured domestic gas. It is my understanding that ConocoPhillips was prepared to provide gas, but only at the commercial rate, which was much more than initially anticipated under the collapsed arrangement. Government failed to purchase at the new price, deciding to tough it out. Now the bill is going to be $140m. How much gas could you buy for that sort of money?
I never suggested that the contract had been finalised because it had not been. When I said ‘deal’, all that was left to negotiate was how much. The ALP government did not secure the deal to the point that ConocoPhilips now provides no gas to the Northern Territory.
I want to also read into Hansard what Denis Burke said on 17 August 2004 in this House when he was in opposition. We were talking about bringing gas onshore. He said:
Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I wanted to place this on the record. They are facts. I am happy to table this document, which is the Timor Sea Natural Gas Regional Cooperation of Resource Holders. This also has Philips, Woodside and Shell logos at the bottom and is dated 27 November 2000. I seek leave to table this document, which states: ‘Onshore pipelines $1.1bn’.
Leave granted.
Mrs MILLER: Thank you. I hope that the Chief Minister and those sitting opposite feel a bit ashamed of trying to make such a scandalous statement as they did yesterday, saying that we had no idea of what we were talking about because, believe me, we do.
Mr WARREN (Goyder): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, Litchfield Christian School in Humpty Doo in my electorate was recently selected as the national winner of a Health and Literacy Competition for schools run by the National Prescribing Service Limited, called Common Colds need Common Sense, not Antibiotics. With their story titled Don’t Spread It, the Year 6 and 7 students won $3000 worth of books for the library and a chance to publish their story. Their submission was judged the best out of 56 entries by a panel of three judges. The judges included children’s author, Lee Fox, whose book Ella Kazoo will not brush her hair was short-listed for the Children’s Book Council 2007 Book of the Year award. Ten black and white outlines of Harvey the Wombat; the campaign mascot, were provided to the students by the competition organisers.
With the help of the school librarian, Mrs Chris Kleefsman and the tireless Mrs Myers, the 10 students put on their creative caps. They had a great time working together over five afternoons, and came up with their prize-winning story about how Harvey the Wombat stops the spread of his cold at school. The result was truly Territorian, with a cartoon croc in sunglasses asking Harvey if he shouldn’t be taking antibiotics, and promptly being told no by Harvey. There was also a green tree frog anxiously asking not to be sneezed on. This was a very inventive and original children’s story, thanks to the NPS schools competition. The Year 6 and 7 class is now busy reaping their rewards and shopping online for all their new books.
To view this imaginative story for yourself, and to share the hygiene message of the campaign with your children, you can check out the website of the National Prescribing Service at www.nps.org.au, and click on the schools tab. It is well worth the effort of checking this website out. I hope to be able to display a copy of the published book in my office in due course.
In August, I advised the House that the Berry Springs Primary School would be celebrating its 30th birthday in September. Unfortunately, because of parliamentary commitments, I had to miss the start of celebrations at the morning assembly, but I did manage to taste the birthday cake, which I can report was really scrumptious. I attended the evening school dance, and checked out the photographic memorabilia display in the library. It was an outstanding collection, which showed the growth of the school from its beginning as a demountable to the current modern facility able to cater for over 300 students.
To help preserve this historic collection, the minister for Education, the Honourable Paul Henderson, has agreed to frame a photographic collage as a birthday gift to the school. This will be displayed in the school reception area for visitors to enjoy for years to come
I am very proud to now outline another success story for Taminmin High School at Humpty Doo. I recently told this parliament about the sensational musical production called Cold As Ice. It was such a wonderful achievement that the school decided to offer performing arts as a subject for 2008. Not only does the school community excel in the area of performing arts, but they are also expanding their highly regarded elite academic excellence program from 2008. This program is designed for those students who want to be challenged to the limits of their scholastic abilities and who may later want to enrol in more prestigious courses at university. Entry to Taminmin High’s Leading Learner program is not easy. It involves academic performance and national online testing, but the outcome is the establishment of a group of students who are both capable of and committed to learning. It is great news that the program is being expanded to encompass Years 7 to 10 students.
I am proud to advise the House about the achievement of another great advance in services in the Humpty Doo area. In early September, I was very pleased to attend the opening, with my colleague the Education minister, the Honourable Paul Henderson, and the Treasurer, the Honourable Syd Stirling, of the new all-purpose special education annexe at the Humpty Doo Primary School. This was an election commitment by both the NT and federal governments which has been delivered for Humpty Doo at a total cost of some $800 000. This new comprehensively equipped facility replaces a substandard donga which was overcrowded and lacked some basic facilities. The new annexe includes two classrooms, a special ablution facility with mobile lifting gear for students in wheelchairs, a quiet teaching room, and a covered walkway to the rest of the school. It also has all the latest education equipment such as an electronic whiteboard.
Local contractor Xristos Anictomatis built the annexe, and the workmanship is a credit to him and his team. The building surrounds are already landscaped and there is a very pleasant learning environment and a very special part of the school. The joy on the faces of the students and staff is what it is all about.
I recently wrote to congratulate Karl Powell and Jo Cahill on the selection of their business, Coach Charters Australia, as the 2007 Northern Territory winner in the Tourism category of the Australian Small Business Champion Awards. These awards are jointly sponsored by the Australian government to acknowledge the drive and commitment required by hard-working small business operators to succeed. It is particularly pleasing to me that a small business operator in my electorate of Goyder has been selected to receive this prestigious award. Passion and dedication are words I have heard attributed to Karl and Jo. After several years as a driver of McCafferty’s coaches and later as Operations Manager in the Red Centre, Karl started the business. With his industry knowledge and experience, he saw an opportunity for a niche market targeted at providing transport services to the Defence industry. With Jo at his side as a more than capable Office Manager, this local business has grown to seven large coaches, three smaller coaches and a 12-seat commuter.
Karl and Jo will soon be heading off to represent the Territory at the National Champion Awards for Australian Small Business in November, and I wish them every success.
Another great bus story in the rural area is that of Shuker Bus Service. Twenty-three years ago, Bev and Hek Shuker started a bus service for the rural area with just three buses. They persevered through those early years and showed faith in the rural area to the stage where their fleet has grown to 23 buses this year. Bev and Hek are now planning to retire to Darwin River and, consequently, they recently sold their business and fleet to Buslink.
Their son Jason Shuker, who has been involved with the business since he was a young boy, will stay on with Buslink to manage their rural services for Humpty Doo. I am pleased to advise the House that Jason has been very helpful to me in the past, when I achieved another election commitment to improve the bus service to the rural area. Jason was able to give me some very good advice on efficient routes and suitable sites for bus shelters recently installed as a result of my lobbying for the Herbert, Humpty Doo and Bees Creek areas.
Ms McCARTHY (Arnhem): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I recently travelled the Roper River region in my electorate to touch base with people on a number of issues largely centred on the federal intervention. One of the big areas of concern is, naturally, education. In my travels from Minyerri to Urapunga and Ngukurr, these are the discussions that I am having with the communities, schools, school staff, the students and with their families.
The Martin Labor government is firmly committed to improving education for all children across the Northern Territory. We are proud of our record in seeing the Aboriginal graduates from our remote communities. It is not enough, though, and we know this. Certainly, my colleagues in the Martin Labor government know that and, as the member for Arnhem, I have been a passionate advocate on behalf of the 16 schools in my electorate. In discussions with the Education minister, I have been able to go through some of the areas that are of concern, especially now that we have the changes to welfare in our communities as a result of the federal intervention.
The federal intervention is quarantining monies, 50% for all families on welfare and 100% for those families whose children do not attend school for three days of a school term. The process is that documents of attendance find their way to Centrelink and my understanding is that staff at Centrelink then correspond the attendance of children to the money that they allocate to their carers. That is where the staff of Centrelink will no doubt make the connection as to which children are at school and how many days they have missed school.
I am yet to understand what happens if a child misses more than three days of schooling and how long the 100% of quarantining of parents’ monies endures. I am deeply concerned about that. Governments at every level have to be aware of the impacts on the social and emotional wellbeing of all the people in these remote regions who are affected by the federal intervention.
I have been canvassing the thoughts of students and teachers not only in Ngukurr but also on Groote Eylandt. I have raised some of the issues with the Education minister. I had the opportunity of meeting with staff at Angurugu in an informal environment and we talked about how they could see the impact quarantining of payments would on the increase of students to their classrooms. It is a real expectation in some communities in Arnhem that the number of students at the schools will increase, and there are estimates given that numbers could double. There are questions about the children who are not attending school, who are not even on the roll but who are of school age. At what levels are these children? We may have children who need help adjusting to school life, who will need help with adjusting to the routine of daily school life. How do those children then sit beside students who have continually gone to school?
These are the issues that I am talking about with families and with staff in particular. I am concerned about the staff. For those people who have lived on communities or have had a lot of interaction with communities will know that the policies of any government can have an impact on a community in such a way where I would not want to see families blame teachers in our schools as to why they are not getting their funding of 100% welfare. These are real concerns. I know for a fact that unless the information is clear, unless families have an opportunity to direct the way the future goes for them and be involved and included in the process, they will get left on the outside. I know for a fact that some parents may be wondering why a teacher is not marking their child at school and there could be a roll-on effect of the families blaming the teaching. These are discussions that I have been having with communities, staff and students because there needs to be informed discussion going on continually.
In Ngukurr, I would certainly like to commend the school council president Robin Rogers for his dedication to the children of Ngukurr and to Pat Farrell and others on the school council for their enduring advocacy to improve the conditions of Ngukurr School. I would like to go through the issues raised with me at Ngukurr School, issues that I have had chance to raise with the Education Minister on a number of occasions. There are 315 enrolled in the school, and there is an estimated 130 extra children expected next year. The library is used to run a Transition and Special Education class, so that virtually means there is no library at Ngukurr School. A computer lab was made into a classroom in 2005, so it means there is no IT room. The preschool is overcrowded, there are not enough tables and chairs, and next year, 58 preschoolers will be enrolled and that would be an increase of 11 on this year. There are predictions that there will be a need for two Transition classes.
In the middle years, they tell me that there will be 42 primary students moving into middle school, and 59 Year 9 students. Staff feel that very few of the 42 students currently in Years 10, 11 and 12 intend leaving school next year. So there could be close to 100 students housed in three classrooms in the middle years.
These are very important issues that the Education minister is aware of and we have been discussing. On top of the concerns that we have now, knowing that there will be an estimated extra 130 children next year, we do have to move very quickly. I am conscious of the Roper and Wilton Rivers cutting off transport to Ngukurr in the Wet Season. I am also conscious that we only have nine weeks of school left of this term.
It is with some delight that our government is committed to providing Ngukurr School with three extra classrooms and build two new houses for next year. I commend absolutely the Education Minister for moving on this. The classrooms will be relocated from another school in the Arnhem electorate, Wugularr. At Wugularr, a new school is being built to be ready for 2008, and again that is a clear indication of the Martin Labor government’s commitment to education in the bush and to capital infrastructure.
This is good news for Ngukurr to have these classrooms for the school to kick off the new year. It is part of the Martin government’s Closing the Gap capital initiatives in remote communities. Our government has also brought forwards funds for classrooms and housing in other Arnhem communities. I put on the record my absolute delight with my colleagues in Cabinet and government in moving on these issues. They have obviously heard the concerns that I have been raising over the last few months.
Alyangula will have two extra houses, Millingimbi CEC an extra classroom, Ramingining CEC an extra classroom and two new houses, Minyerri School an extra new house, and, as I said, Ngukurr, which is perhaps one of the areas of most concern to me of the 16 schools I have, will get three extra classrooms and two new houses. The classrooms are set to be in place to kick off first term 2008. I will most definitely be providing reports back to Education Minister and indeed to this House as to how education issues are going at Ngukurr.
Speaking of Ngukurr, I would like to mention the Grand Final win of Ngukurr Bulldogs against the Arnhem Crows in the Katherine AFL Grand Final recently. It was one those Grand Finals that was pretty difficult because I had two teams from my electorate playing. Previously, it was the Arnhem Crows and Lajamanu and I think it was those teams the year before, so when I presented the trophy a couple of years ago, it was to Lajamanu so I knew on this occasion, I would most definitely be giving it to a community in my electorate.
I had the pleasure of presenting the winning trophy to the Bulldogs Captain, Roland Lansen. The final score was Ngukurr 17.8.110 to the Crows 11.8.74. After the presentation of the season’s Best and Fairest Medal to Crows Captain Relton Roberts, the National Anthem was sung by Theresa Harris. Neville Andrews was recognised as the Best on Ground for the grand final, with a medal presented by Douglas Kelly.
I take this opportunity to pay tribute to the other teams in the Katherine AFL League: Northern Warlpiri, Kalano, Katherine, Jilkminggan, Tindal, Gurindji and Minyerri. Obviously, without these teams who travel hundreds of kilometres each weekend just to compete, there would be no Katherine AFL, and most certainly, the drive of coaches and the players in these communities is really what it is all about.
At this grand final, to see the Ngukurr Bulldogs coach travel in with all the community people on board, and the same again with the Arnhem Crows, with their red and yellow, coming in from Barunga, Beswick, Bulman and even Manyallaluk was a fantastic atmosphere and certainly a lot of excitement.
I send a big thank you to the AFL Katherine President Denis Coburn, Secretary Greg Dickson, and the coaches of each of the teams. I would like to read into Hansard the names of those people. The coaches are Greg Daniels and Graham Turner for the Bulldogs. The Arnhem coach is Paul Amarant. I look forward to next season. The players were Neville Andrews; Amos Ashley; Rowan Bonson; Queron Daniels; Germaine Farrell; Nico Farrell; Tom Farrell; Peter Gumbula; Davin Hall; Jeremy Hall; Adam Joshua; William Joshua; Edmund Kelly; Roland Lansen, Captain; Fabian Rami; Stefan Rami; Brendan Robertson; Phillip Robertson; Howard Turner; Owen Turner; Terrance Turner; Ishmael Wurramara; and naturally, the coaches, Greg Daniels and Graham Turner.
The Arnhem Crows players were: Ronnie Ah Fat; Paul Amarant; Peter Amarant; Levi Ashley; Ray Ashley; Leon Bonson; Gaston Bowden; Symeon Bulumbara; Braun Bush; David Groves; Gavin Harrison; Rexmond Isaac; Rocky Kennedy; Scott Lee; Robert McGregor-Brown; Relton Roberts, Captain; Germaine Scrubby; Traven Shields; Kyle Talbot; Allan Trindle; Barnabas Turner; Campbell Wurramara; and, of course, the Coach, Paul Amarant, who will be bringing a lot of the players up for the season with the NTFL; and I certainly commend Paul on his efforts. He works for Nyirranggulung, the regional authority and is the Sport and Recreation Officer for the Bulman, Barunga, Beswick, Manyallaluk region. Paul does a tremendous job of trying to get the young footy players up each weekend, and they play with Nightcliff Tigers, so go Nightcliff.
I am really proud to see all the Arnhem mob come up to be a part of the NTFL, and want to see more of our communities become involved. I would most definitely like to see a lot of the women involved, and to see women’s sport play a higher role, which is a personal goal. We will see what happens over the coming years.
Mr KIELY (Sanderson): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, tonight I provide the first part of my report back to parliament on my recent trip to New Zealand to have a look at community patrols.
By way of background, for a number of years, recurrent themes of youth antisocial behaviour, property damage, graffiti and other criminal activity have been at the forefront of discussions of local Neighbourhood Watch committees that service Sanderson.
There are two active Neighbourhood Watch committees, Anula and Wulagi, in the Sanderson electorate, and both have very strong community spirit and are actively involved in bringing the community together through such things as suburb-based social events, community crime audits, the lowering of youth-associated antisocial behaviour through participative community projects and household street numbering drives to name just a few areas of activity.
A consistent issue of concern to these committees that I have observed while attending Neighbourhood Watch meetings, is the capacity of police to respond in a timely fashion to calls from citizens when advised through the telephone contact number 131 444 of an actual crime or potential crime occurring. Neighbourhood Watch members understood that police resources are not infinite and that not all reports could be addressed as soon as reported, and set their minds to identifying ways of becoming more active in helping reduce crime through early intervention strategies.
One such strategy that caught the eye of a number of Wulagi Neighbourhood Watch committee members was voluntary community patrols undertaken by Neighbourhood Watch members. Following up on the this idea, the Area Coordinator of Wulagi Neighbourhood Watch, Mr Paul Wyatt, and the Assistant Area Coordinator of Wulagi Neighbourhood Watch, Mr Anthony Scott, researched community patrolling in New Zealand. I recall a couple of meetings I attended where they provided overviews of community patrolling programs in New Zealand, and advised of plans to attend an Annual General Meeting of New Zealand Community Patrols, to find out how these patrol works and if this model could be utilised in Wulagi. Planning to attend this meeting in New Zealand was always going to be an issue, and I was pleased to hear that Neighbourhood Watch Northern Territory is going to pay for Mr Wyatt to attend, along with the executives of the Neighbourhood Watch NT Sergeant Jeff Mosel. Funding for Mr Scott to attend the meeting was provided privately by donation from the Wulagi Neighbourhood Watch committee, as well as from individual members of the community.
Upon the Neighbourhood Watch team’s return from their fact-finding mission to New Zealand, Mr Scott dropped off a copy of the report prepared for local Invercargill Community Patrol members on a patrol they accompanied while at the annual general meeting. I will submit that with the report, Mr Deputy Speaker.
As the local member for Sanderson, I was approached by a number of constituents who had been made aware of the visit of the Neighbourhood Watch members to New Zealand through the local media, and of their desire to implement similar community patrols in Wulagi and Anula. On the basis of these and similar approaches by other members of the community, I decided to further my knowledge of community patrols by visiting a number of cities and regional centres in the South Island of New Zealand. I chose the South Island because I had been advised by constituents who lived in New Zealand that the South Island population is more like the Northern Territory population. The North Island is more in tune with the lifestyle of our southern states.
As part of my preparation to leave for New Zealand, I made contact with the Chairman of Community Patrols New Zealand, Mr Ian Pilbrow, to organise meetings with local community patrol members and police. Mr Pilbrow advised me on 13 September 2007 that he and a serving New Zealand police officer would be speaking at the Neighbourhood Watch Northern Territory AGM on 22 September 2007. I met with Mr Pilbrow and the New Zealand police representative while they were in Darwin. Mr Pilbrow was able to provide me with some very good information and a list of Community Patrol contacts in Christchurch and Dunedin. Suggestions for other towns and cities to visit based on similar population centres such as Katherine and Alice Springs were identified.
I also took the opportunity to attend a community meeting organised by Mr Wyatt held at the Casuarina Community Library on 26 September 2007 at which Mr Pilbrow and the New Zealand police associate briefed the audience on the role and organisation of Community Patrols New Zealand. Also as part of my pre-trip preparation, I reviewed the most current list of New Zealand Community Patrols. From this list, I selected the town patrols which I considered met the criteria I set. Also included in the visiting schedule were number of centres that did not have community patrols. These were included as it is important to try to identify the reason why some communities had patrols and others did not, and what effects these may have had on crime protection or prevention.
The communities I visited were at Greymouth, which has the Greymouth Community Patrol at the police station in Greymouth. Greymouth has a population of 10 000 people. It is predominantly a rural service centre and is similar to Katherine. There is a regional community called Gore which has the Gore Community Patrol and is serviced by the police station at Gore. It has 12 000 people and that, too, had many similarities to Katherine. There was Cromwell, which did not have a patrol. I went to Cromwell Police Station. Cromwell has 3000 people. It was a purpose-built township and reminded me of townships like Jabiru and mining centres of that nature. Queenstown, which does not have a patrol, is serviced by the Queenstown Police Station. Queenstown has 20 000 people and its main economic driver is tourism. It reminded me of Alice Springs in terms of its economics, population and tourism. I went to Queenstown and spoke to police there.
Dunedin has two patrols, north and south. It is serviced by Dunedin City Police Station as well as Dunedin South. Dunedin has 120 000 people. It is a major centre on the west coast of New Zealand and is about the same size as Darwin. It has a university like Darwin. It is the main centre around that area. Christchurch has eight patrols serviced by various police stations throughout the Christchurch district. Christchurch has 320 000 people. It is a major city. Of course, we do not have any cities of that size in the Territory, but the urban nature of Christchurch I equated with Darwin. There was also a smaller centre, Hokitika, which does not have any patrols, although it is listed as having patrols on the CPNZ website. Hokitika has 4000 people and I equated that with Tennant Creek.
The notion is for community patrols to be trialled, I read in one of the media releases in New Zealand, in Alice Springs with the view of going out across the Territory. I thought it was important that I see where the community patrols operate in centres quite similar in size to our own.
Over the course of my 10-day visit to New Zealand, I travelled approximately 2000 km and visited the communities I mentioned where I met with either community patrol members, local police or both. I attended evening police duty parades for briefings on crime and antisocial behaviour where criminal intelligence was shared prior to going out on patrol. As a condition of attendance, I was required to sign a confidentiality undertaking that I would not reveal the contents of any information I accessed as a result of the police intelligence briefings, nor that I would divulge the names of any patrol member without prior consent. Although I am protected by privilege, I fully plan to honour the spirit of these agreements.
I went on patrol in two centres. On the basis of the request for confidentiality, my intention is to present the information I obtained from the meetings I had with police and patrol members in an unattributed format and I will present my findings at the next sitting.
Mr Deputy Speaker, I would like to mention the process of interviews. I interviewed patrol members as I was out on patrol. It was all rather informal. At times, I interviewed coordinators in the police station. I attended meetings at patrol members’ houses and was fully briefed on different aspects. I met police on duty in their stations. I met police who had dealt with community patrols. I met with police who had not dealt with community patrols and heard a range of full and frank stories from them and how they viewed the operation, the effectiveness of community patrols. I made a point of talking to local shopkeepers and any locals that I met. I asked them about community patrols by way of feedback from the community. All in all, it was a very good information gathering exercise.
I will wind up now and save my findings and other observations for the next sitting. Travel costs of parliamentarians on study trips are a point of interest for the community. I have not yet acquitted all the travel costs, but on the accounts that I have to hand, I spent $4200 on travel and $3900 on accommodation, which comes to about $8500 as the cost of the study tour.
Mr Deputy Speaker, I look forward to when we next meet to put forward my findings. I am hopeful of having a full and comprehensive report to provide to the Police minister as well as make myself available to give presentations and report to local Neighbourhood Watch meetings on my findings.
Dr BURNS (Johnston): Mr Deputy Speaker, a man with a heart of gold and long-time Darwinite, Dominique Lambrinidis, passed away peacefully on 26 September 2007 of heart failure. Dominique was born in Lyon, France on 29 September 1934 to Georgette and Dimocritis Lambrinidis, both of Greek descent. Dominique had two sisters, Fannie and Connie, and a younger brother, Pierre. He married Kalliopi Kassaras on 10 December 1966 in Darwin, and they have five children: Spiros, Sylvia, George, John and Theodoros.
Being born on the same day, same time and same hospital ward as Bridget Bardot, it was a sign that this young lad was to be a very special addition to the world. Dominique attended Ecole Rue Trouchet No 94, obtaining his Certificat D-Etudes Primaire in 1949. He then began an apprenticeship in cabinet making.
Wartime France was difficult. Ever an entrepreneur, Dominique would sell peanuts at the local cinema and sandals at the local market to help his family as his father had been sent to a forced labour camp in Germany, and money was scarce. When his father Dimocritos decided to come to Australia, Dominique, being an adventurous man, decided to come along. At the tender age of 17, he arrived in 1951.
Destined for Sydney, he bumped into cousins in Fremantle and decided to stay, working for Harvey’s WA and Peter’s Creameries before moving to Perth where he began work for the State Electricity Commission, or SEC, as a Trades Assistant changing voltages to save money to bring his mother, sisters and brother to Australia.
A handsome man who loved to dance, he attended regular European dances every Saturday, taking his sisters along. He moonlighted as a waiter at the first true a la carte in Perth, the Ao Petit Paris while at the SEC, then at the Ocean Beach Restaurant in Perth, another a la carte restaurant that opened. He then became maitre d’hotel at the Fontain Blu Restaurant where many national and international stars appeared, and finally opened his own restaurant, the Casablanca, and managed to attract stars such as the Allen Brothers, to perform there. He lived a colourful life and had two race horses, Lord Bayard and Paperbury, with the offspring of Paperbury winning a Perth Oaks.
Dominique moved to Darwin in 1964 to work with another cousin, Stamatis Pastrikos, in the construction industry, and helped him to build and run the Aspa City Motel in Dashwood Crescent. With his experience, Dominique ran the restaurant and brought in many famous entertainers, his most famous being the young Marcia Hines who performed in her Australian dbut.
Always keen to try new things, Dominique opened an electrical and toy shop in the Windsor Arcade, and made himself available to help people with interpreting and translating services in the Greek community. Stamatis’ brother, Pantelis, then persuaded Dominique to work for him to help him grow his cabinet making business, Darwin Joinery Works, or DJW, in 1970.
In 1973 after building the family home, they decided to go back to Perth to be closer to his family. A year later, when he returned to make repairs following Cyclone Tracy, Dominique saw the potential for rebuilding Darwin. In 1977, he returned for good and formed a partnership with yet more Pastrikos brothers, Spiros and Anastasis Pastrikos and Manolis Gerakios, forming ADES Constructions.
A successful business, ADES repaired or built hundreds of damaged and new homes in Darwin and Palmerston. His only regret was that his grand plan to build a world-class marina and ship repair facility in Frances Bay was somehow lost to a larger company.
In 1982, the partners decided to disband and head separate ways, and Dominique took his young family back to France and Greece to visit old friends and family with whom he maintained contact. On return, his entrepreneurial skills took over and he began another building company with Anastasis Pastrikos, AD Enterprises, and Interstar Video with Nick Fermanis. Unfortunately, the recession took its toll and Dominique suffered a heart attack in 1992, effectively cutting short his working life, but this did not mean Dominique became less busy.
He became a Public Officer and Secretary of the Greek Orthodox Community of North Australia and dedicated his time to this task, helping to petition the government for much needed grants, and giving his son George a life lesson in how to achieve the seemingly unachievable. He remained Public Officer until his death.
He was a kind, gentle, God loving man who always helped anyone that needed help. He was a good, loving husband, father and friend, and Australian. He was a model citizen who thrived on helping his fellow man. A natural peacemaker, he was always optimistic about everyone, and always thought the best of everyone. He loved his Greek blood, loved France, but most of all, he loved being an Australian. It is no wonder he enjoyed a nice red wine, good company and attending formal gatherings and functions.
Dominique adored his family and spending time with them. He loved to take his young son, Theo to soccer and football training and watch him play his games on weekends. Family was integral to his life and he found comfort and joy in having everyone visit the family home for name days, birthdays and other celebrations.
Whilst he was proud of all his children, he was also proud that he now had grandchildren from three of his kids. They include Kelly, Manolis, Kyriakos, Garifalia and Madeline. Many people would not be aware that Dominique’s Greek name is Kyriakos, so he has a namesake in the young Kyriakos Lambrinidis. Dominique especially adored his wife of over 40 years, Poppy or Kalliopi. They went everywhere together and they did everything together until the end. It is a beautiful thing to know that Dominique passed away in Poppy’s arms, as he could only have wanted it to be so. Vale Dominique; may he rest in peace.
Mr Deputy Speaker, tonight I want to talk about a remarkable woman who recently retired after much-valued service within the Department of Health and Community Services. Rose Rhodes retired from the Department of Health and Community Services on Friday 31 August after 22 years of dedicated service. Rose was an outstanding member of the public service, and was awarded the Public Service Medal on Australia Day this year, honouring her wonderful contribution not only to our public service but to the Northern Territory.
Rose moved to Darwin from Adelaide in 1985, bringing with her a wealth of senior nursing experience which she put to good use when she commenced her employment as an Assistant Director of Nursing at Royal Darwin Hospital. Rose was known as a mover and a shaker; someone who could make things happen. Within a year of starting at RDH, Rose moved to Community Health as Director of Nursing where, amongst her many achievements, she was instrumental in setting up a range of specialist nursing positions and securing funding for these positions under the federal government Home and Community Care, or HACC Program. This was the first HACC service in the Territory.
For the past 11 years, Rose has worked at executive level in a wide variety of capacities, including Regional Director Operations North, Assistant Secretary Community Services, and most recently, Acting Deputy Secretary, Performance and Resources. Rose’s leadership and influence extended beyond the public service. She made a positive contribution to the broader Territory community through her leadership in disaster recovery and her working relationships with members of the private and non-government sectors. Rose’s pleasant demeanour and determination to make things right made her a hit with her colleagues and stakeholders. She is known as a fair but tough negotiator, with the consumer always the focus of her work.
Rose is planning a family visit to Adelaide and Singapore at the commencement of her retirement. She has more travel planned for the longer term. Rose is highly respected by all levels of staff and her presence will be missed in the department for her corporate knowledge, her active, positive participation and her humour.
Successive governments, successive ministers and I know the member for Arafura, Marion Scrymgour, Minister for Family and Community Services, will also join me tonight, and all members present, in wishing Rose and her family all the best in her retirement.
Mr Deputy Speaker, I would like to speak about Veronica Barrett who has also retired after an impressive 34 years of service with the Northern Territory government. Veronica is retiring at the age of 71 to move to Perth to be with her sons. She started work in the Northern Territory at Ludmilla Primary School in 1973 where she worked as a School Assistant for 17 years. No doubt, many Territorians who attended Ludmilla Primary School will, when they reflect on their primary school years, remember Veronica with affection and respect.
In May 1990, Veronica transferred to the Centre for Disease Control, where she worked as the Unit Administrator for the past 17 years. That is where I met Veronica. She is a wonderful lady and very well respected by everyone and certainly did a great job in Disease Control. During this period, Veronica had responsibility for the administration of the Northern Territory Notifiable Diseases Database, reception for the Centre for Disease Control and the role of Personal Assistant to the unit’s Director who, of course, now is Vicki Krause.
She was renowned as the mature and calm voice at the end of the phone, and has a wealth of corporate knowledge of the Centre for Disease Control. She always knew which staff member would be able to address a particular issue, and that is a fairly complicated issue in itself within Disease Control. Veronica has constantly moved with the times in technology, and her expertise in generating reports and responding to queries regarding notifiable diseases has been an asset to the department.
Veronica showed dedication to all her duties and was known to her colleagues as the ‘Ringer of the Cow Bell’ as she walked the corridors of Block 4 ringing the cow bell to announce the start of daily meeting for the Centre of Disease Control on-call staff. What a great little ceremony. I am sure her ringing of the cow bell will be greatly missed.
Veronica was a very well liked and respected member of the Centre for Disease Control and will be greatly missed by her colleagues. Veronica is an avid Aussie Rules fan, and devoted supporter of Port Adelaide, so life should be interesting for her in Perth. I am sure she is going to stick with the mighty Port Adelaide. I thank Veronica for her service to the public. On behalf of all the staff members at Centre for Disease Control and the Director Dr Vicki Krause, we all wish you well, Veronica. Enjoy your time with your family in Perth and enjoy your retirement.
Mr Deputy Speaker, in closing, I was very saddened today to hear the passing of Vern Pech. I have known Vern for many years. He has been am Essential Services Officer for at least 20 years at Maningrida and, preceding that, on the Tiwi Islands. Not to put too fine a point on it, Vern was a real character, one I will remember with a lot of affection. It is probably not appropriate for me to give a full memorial to Vern. I will certainly do that in the December sitting. I do want to place on the record tonight the sadness that I and many other people have experienced on hearing of Vern’s death through an accident at Maningrida today. I extend my condolences to his family. As I said, I will have a proper speech in the December sitting about Vern and his life and the mighty contribution he has made over many years as a dedicated Essential Services Officer in the Top End of the Northern Territory.
Motion agreed to; the Assembly adjourned.
PETITION
Milyakburra School – Employment of Principal
Milyakburra School – Employment of Principal
Ms McCARTHY (Arnhem)(by leave): Madam Speaker, I present a petition not conforming with standing orders from 74 petitioners relating to the employment of the Principal at Milyakburra School. I move that the petition be read.
Motion agreed to; petition read:
- To whom it may concern.
We the undersigned do not want Mrs Sue Whittnall to leave Bickerton Island and want her to remain as Principal at Milyakburra School. We feel that Sue has not been treated fairly in this matter. We want to have Aboriginal people in positions to benefit our community.
MINISTERIAL REPORTS
His Honour the Administrator –
Farewell to Mr E J Egan AO
His Honour the Administrator –
Farewell to Mr E J Egan AO
Ms MARTIN (Chief Minister): Madam Speaker, this is the last month of His Honour Ted Egan’s tenure as the Territory’s Administrator. His official duties end on 31 October. It hardly seems possible that four years have passed since the Governor-General appointed him as the 18th Administrator of the Territory.
Ted has undertaken his duties with grace, dignity and humour, and leaves the office as one of our most popular and well-respected Administrators. Ted is a Territorian to his boot straps and has a down-to-earth and easy-going approach to the position.
When he was appointed, there was a fair bit of head scratching in the Top End. Of course, people knew Ted Egan as the performer, but few realised the experience and knowledge that this man from Alice Springs would bring with him to the position of Administrator. He soon won them over and, since that time, Territorians have taken him and Nerys to their hearts. Ted’s profound understanding of issues relating to the land, culture and heritage of all those living in the Territory has been the cornerstone of his time in office.
From Borroloola to Gunbalanya, from Alice to Kalkarindji, he has shared stories and more than a few laughs with countless people. In fact, Ted’s ability to reach out to people through his easy-going personality, his music and his love of sport makes him one of the Territory’s most accessible and loved public figures.
I know the things that Ted has enjoyed during his time as Administrator. He loves visiting our schools as well as receiving school visits to Government House. The annual Kids’ Fun Days for children with special needs held in the grounds of Government House were very special to him. He was Patron of around 90 organisations, and he was passionate about each and every one of them, and still is.
A particular highlight for him was in 2005 when the Tiwi Islands celebrated the 300th anniversary of Tiwi-European contact. Ted has a long association with the Tiwis and he shared this celebration with Dr Hans Sondal, the Dutch Ambassador.
Madam Speaker, another memorable occasion happened this year. He returned to north-east Arnhem Land to meet with some of his old friends from the days when he was a Patrol Officer in the early 1950s. It included a visit to the Laynhapuy Homelands, and to the memorial commemorating the 1910 massacre at Gangan. He also held meetings with Aboriginal health workers and the Mission Australia Special Care Centre in Nhulunbuy, visited the high school, and attended the official opening of the Roy Marika Lookout in the centre of the township. He also travelled to Gunyapingnya, Garrthalala and Yilpara and attended the official opening of the Garrangali Arts Centre. It was a truly memorable trip, renewing old acquaintances and making many new friends.
Another legacy of Ted’s time as Administrator is the annual Administrator’s Pleasure Concert, which is staged at the Darwin Entertainment Centre. It sums up Ted. It is a concept that combines entertainment and compassion, an event that allows young and older local talent to showcase their talents whilst supporting local charities. It has raised more than $50 000 over the years.
Ted’s partner, Nerys Evans, must also be acknowledged. Nerys’ personal experience has proved invaluable in every aspect and theirs has been a partnership in the truest sense of the word. She has sustained Ted throughout his term in office. Nerys has shared Ted’s passion for the Territory and supported her own patronages with enthusiasm. She has also shared her organisational and entertainment skills and talents, and has ably led the Government House Foundation as President for four years. Nerys’ discerning sense of taste encouraged the foundation to commission some magnificent artworks.
Ted and Nerys are both passionate about the history, present status and most importantly the future of Government House. They have held Open Days twice a year in the Dry Season, with almost 13 000 people from the Territory, interstate and overseas visiting their home.
Madam Speaker, on behalf of all Territorians from all corners of our Territory, I thank Ted and Nerys for all they have achieved over the past four years, and say to them as they move to the next stage of their life’s work, and in part return to their home in Alice Springs, everyone thanks them and wishes them well.
Members: Hear, hear!
Ms CARNEY (Opposition Leader): Madam Speaker, the opposition joins with the Chief Minister to wish Ted and Nerys the very best. We have had what can only be described as a very interesting line of Administrators in the Territory. The Territory is different from everywhere else, and we should celebrate those differences.
Curiously, some people have suggested that you cannot have a Chief Minister in the Northern Territory from Alice Springs. The same people might like to reflect on whether it is possible to have an Administrator from Alice Springs, Ted and Nerys being from Alice Springs.
As an Alice Springs person, I look forward to seeing them around town more often. I look forward to Nerys, as I mentioned to her the other day, rejoining our lunch group which has been going for 12 or 13 years and of which she was a member before they moved to Darwin. I thank them for the work they have done. The opposition joins with the Chief Minister and all the people of the Northern Territory in wishing them the very best for their future.
Mr WOOD (Nelson): Madam Speaker, I also join with the government and the Opposition Leader in their good wishes to the Administrator and his wife Nerys. From a personal perspective, I found Ted a great mentor. Ted’s experience, especially music and theatre, was something I enjoyed. He not only gave advice, he would join in and enjoy the whole atmosphere of whatever you were doing. From that perspective, personally, he was of great assistance to me.
He is a wise man. I have been to many of the talks he has given at various openings around the place, and people sit in silence and listen to a man who was willing to speak up even as Administrator. He was even willing to speak up against the government. I recently went to a dinner for parliamentary Environment and Public Works Committee people from all over Australia at Pee Wees. He discussed some of the issues related to land rights around the Darwin area, about fishing permits, and he was willing to put his point of view. In fact, he said he was going to write a book, and I presume some of those things will come into that book.
He is a man who has been good for the Territory because he has raised issues that might be difficult and has put them up for debate, which is important. At the same time, he is very personable and people love to hear him. Interstate people go to dinners and they applaud him. He had a standing ovation. When he sang The Drover’s Boy at the dinner, people loved it. He is a man not just for Territorians; he is a man for Australia.
China Delegation - Preview
Mr NATT (Mines and Energy): Madam Speaker, I inform the Assembly of the progress of my Department of Primary Industry, Fisheries and Mines’ China Strategy.
Members will be aware that part of our response to the commodities boom has been a new $12m exploration and investment attraction program over the next four years called Bringing Forward Discovery. Part of this program is a China Strategy geared specifically to making companies in China more aware of the potential of the Northern Territory, and encouraging partnerships and other business arrangements with mining and exploration companies already committed to working here.
Madam Speaker, you will recall that last November I took a delegation of department experts and industry representatives to China to attend China Mining, Asia’s premier mining conference, and to hold a series of meetings with interested Chinese companies.
There was a follow-up visit by my departmental technical experts and industry representatives to cement relationships formed by the earlier delegation. Results of those visits have been spectacular. Before our initial visit, there was virtually no recognition of the Northern Territory within China. Most companies had never heard of us, and had no idea where we were, much less that we were an accessible and well resourced potential business partner.
Now the Territory is most definitely on the Chinese radar. Since our initial visit, delegations from 14 Chinese organisations have visited the Territory, with several making multiple visits. Several exploration licences have been submitted by Chinese companies. SinoSteel has entered into a sponsorship arrangement with the Darwin Symphony Orchestra and cooperation arrangements have been drafted with the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Metals and Minerals and the Chinese Mining Association. Chinese investment in the Territory minerals sector will increase exploration expenditure, increase the potential for mineral discoveries and support the development of the Territory’s mining industry.
Most of the Chinese companies operating overseas or seeking to invest overseas are state-owned enterprises. In other words, they are controlled by the central government. This means that it is appropriate and necessary for the Northern Territory government to be involved in developing relationships and networks which are a bridge for industry to make and develop relationships. It is this government-to-government link that is facilitating the results that the Territory is enjoying, and why the delegation to China in November of this year is so important.
This year’s program includes attending three events: the Australia China Mining Seminar; the China Mining 2000 Expo; and a seminar facilitated by the China Mining Association and the Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Metals and Minerals. As well as attending those three major events, the delegation will meet with potential Chinese investors, hold a media conference for selected Chinese media and attend two networking dinners.
To say the pace of the visit will be hectic is an understatement, however, the relationships we have begun with Chinese companies and associations must be nurtured and new ones developed, and the best way for that to happen is face-to-face. The Territory is the only jurisdiction in Australia with a dedicated, targeted China strategy, and this gives us a potential advantage on the international stage. It is up to the next delegation to ensure we maintain and build on this competitive edge.
It is not only the Territory’s minerals and energy sectors which will benefit from this trip. We are taking the opportunity on our way over to stop for 24 hours in Indonesia. This flying visit will see me meeting senior industry officials to discuss primary industry issues, especially ways to increase live cattle shipments from the Territory.
We all know there is a commodities boom under way, but there are also many countries and other states jockeying for a share of the market. The Territory has been proactive in its approach to securing that and more Chinese investment and involvement and it is vital that we continue this approach to ensure that maximum benefits flow to the Territory’s economy and to Territorians.
Mrs MILLER (Katherine): Madam Speaker, I thank the minister for his report. The opposition supports delegations to promote the Northern Territory overseas. The Bringing Forward Discovery promotion of the Northern Territory’s minerals industry is a very important one. I agree that face-to-face discussions are the best way of forming and developing relationships. It is pleasing to see that you are also going to be attending to some Primary Industry and Fisheries issues when you lead this delegation.
I did not quite hear who was going on the delegation. Maybe in your response, you will be able to say who will comprise the delegation from both sectors. We support what the Territory government is trying to do to develop the minerals industry in China, which is a new and developing market.
Mr WOOD (Nelson): Madam Speaker, I also thank the minister for his report. As we know, the Chinese are beginning to take interest in the Northern Territory through the mines at Batchelor. In relation to changes of the three mines policy of the federal Labor Party and the Chief Minister’s support for that change, will you be having discussions about expanding exports of uranium into China? China is a very energy-hungry country. They have a nuclear power program and are looking for imports of uranium. Will our government be looking at developing relationships with Chinese companies that may be interested in developing uranium mines in the Northern Territory and exporting it?
Regardless of what we might think about nuclear power plants, China is one place in the world which is expanding its nuclear power production. Federal Labor and Northern Territory Labor have agreed to change the three mine policy. I would have thought it makes plain good sense to at least raise that matter with the Chinese government. We have large sources of uranium. I have forgotten how many people are now exploring for uranium in the Northern Territory. Would the minister be able to say whether those discussions will be on the agenda?
Mr NATT (Mines and Energy): Madam Speaker, I thank both members for their support. For the member for Katherine, we are currently working with industry partners. At this stage, we have two industry partners coming with us. I cannot confirm who they are at the moment, but we are working through those processes. Members from my Mines department who have expertise on the Northern Territory will be accompanying us.
Member for Nelson, we will be promoting anything that is in the ground in the Territory which the Chinese are interested in that respect. It will not just be a trip to sell uranium; it will be a trip to sell everything and try to set up valuable relationships for industry in the Northern Territory.
I hope our efforts in China will not be undermined by concerns the Chinese might have about the perceived links we may have with Taiwan. I will be expressing our deep desire that we maintain our links with China. I am fearful about perceptions the Chinese may have about our links with the Taiwanese government, but I will be putting those to bed and ensuring that our investment strategies do move ahead.
History Book Awards
Mr McADAM (Corporate and Information Services): Madam Speaker, I report to the House on the NT Literary Awards and the Chief Minister’s NT History Book Awards.
I represented the Chief Minister at the awards night on Friday, 5 October. The Literary Awards attracted 254 entries across five categories. The 2007 winners of the those categories of literary awards are as follows: Kath Manzie Youth Literary Award - Oceana Pastor-Elsegood, Yellow Dress Girl; Charles Darwin University Essay Award - Nigel Turvey, On Natural Selection and the Characteristic Qualities of the Greater Number of Sailors; the Dymocks Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander Writers Award - Ellen Peacock, A Question of Identity; Dymocks Arafura Short Story Award - Bruce Hocking, Shrink; and Dymocks Red Earth Poetry Award - Bill Coburn, Kadaitcha.
It is important to recognise the sponsors: Dymocks, the Manzie family and Charles Darwin University. In attendance were Neville James and George Manolas from Dymocks, Daryl and Maureen Manzie, and Professor Helen Garnett, all of whom assisted with presenting awards.
The Chief Minister’s Northern Territory History Book Award is for a book published during 2006 that deals with our history. Nine entries of a very high standard were received this year, some entries coming from interstate. There were three finalists for the History Book Award.
First was Darby: One Hundred Years of Life in a Changing Culture by Liam Campbell and published by ABC Books. Darby is the biography of an indigenous elder from Yuendumu, Darby Jampijinpa Ross. Darby lived to be 100 years old and the book tells, through his eyes, the extraordinary history of the Warlpiri people’s experiences during that time. Darby’s story is a story of Central Australia and the 20th century struggles and relationships between mainstream and Aboriginal Australians, the arrival of explorers and miners, the founding of missions and welfare settlements, and the progress made with indigenous land rights. A further focus of the book was Darby’s wish to record the Dreaming of his people before he died to ensure his stories will continue to be passed down to future generations.
The second finalist was Through Chinese Eyes: The Chinese Experience in the Northern Territory 1874-2004 by Glenice Yee, which is self-published. As the subtitle indicates, this book covers the Chinese experience in the Territory from 1874 to 2004. I guess people would ask: ‘Why 1874?’ It was at that time that the first 186 Coolie labourers from Singapore arrived in Palmerston. They came on two-year contracts to undertake public works under the South Australian administration of the time. Glenice Yee explores Chinese settlement across the Territory, and the book includes biographies of a range of Chinese families, including a chapter on Chinese-Aboriginal families, one of the first times this aspect of our social history has been so thoroughly documented.
The winner of the award was Empty North: The Japanese Presence and Australian Reactions 1860s to 1942 by Dr Pam Oliver and published by Charles Darwin University Press. Empty North looks at the positive nature of Japanese immigration to the north of Australia from the 1860s together with the fear many Australians developed about the Japanese and white Australia after 1901. Dr Oliver’s book also examines the context of Australia’s relationships with Japan and the Japanese expansion into South-East Asia and the Pacific region. The book examines a number of key issues. For example:
what part did Japanese people play in the positive development of the Northern Territory?;
The History Book Award finalists and the respective themes of their literature reflect the Territory’s rich multicultural diversity. I was pleased to see such a range of youth and experience in our authors, as well as them being representative of their cultural diversity.
Madam Speaker, I thank those who participated in this year’s award. I am sure all members will join me in congratulating the finalists, all entrants, and all involved in the NT Literary Awards and the Chief Minister’s Northern Territory History Book Awards.
Ms CARNEY (Opposition Leader): Madam Speaker, the minister’s report was very interesting. The opposition enthusiastically joins with you in congratulating everyone involved.
What emerged from your report, minister, were a couple of fundamentals. What a fascinating place the Northern Territory is now, has been, and will be in the future. What a wonderful depth of talent we have. How important it is, perhaps most fundamentally of all, for each and every one of us in this place to strive to ensure that kids of the Territory go to school so that they can read and write, and strive to be participants in awards of this nature. Well done, minister. We thank the government for their efforts, and congratulate everyone involved.
Mr McADAM (Corporate and Information Services): Madam Speaker, I appreciate the comments made by the Leader of the Opposition. As she suggests, we do have a very rich, culturally diversified community. I was impressed by the large number of young people who were there. During the course of the awards, I could tell that they were truly inspired by the experiences of those who took up the challenge to record the history of the Northern Territory.
I say to all our young people, indigenous and non-indigenous: take up the challenge, be inspired by those who have gone before them and ensure that we are always in a position to record what occurs in the Northern Territory because we are a very special place. I was very inspired by the young people there on that occasion.
Reports noted pursuant to standing orders.
SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS
Take two Bills Together
Take two Bills Together
Mr HENDERSON (Employment, Education and Training): Madam Speaker, I move that so much of standing orders be suspended as would prevent two bills entitled Workplace Health and Safety Bill (Serial 123) and Law Reform (Work Health) Amendment Bill (Serial 124):
(a) being presented and read a first time together and one motion being put in regard to respectively the second readings, the committee’s report stage and the third readings of the Bill together; and
Motion agreed to.
WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY BILL
(Serial 123)
LAW REFORM (WORK HEALTH)
AMENDMENT BILL
(Serial 124)
(Serial 123)
LAW REFORM (WORK HEALTH)
AMENDMENT BILL
(Serial 124)
Bills presented and read a first time.
Mr HENDERSON (Employment, Education and Training): Madam Speaker, I move that the bills be now read a second time.
The purpose of these bills is to provide a more modern, appropriate legislative framework for the regulation of Occupational Health and Safety in the Northern Territory. By improving the regulatory framework, the government seeks to ensure Territorians have safer working environments through reduced rates of injury and disease.
There are more Territorians in the workforce than ever before in an ever expanding range of jobs. In 1987, when the existing Work Health Act was drafted, there were 71 600 people employed in the Northern Territory. Today, there are over 107 800 people at work in the Territory. We have the highest forecast job growth in Australia over the next five years. Attracting and keeping the right staff is a key issue for Territory businesses and a safe working environment is central to attracting and retaining workers. We need to keep these people at work and working safely.
Safer workplaces make good economic sense as well. Workers Compensation premiums cost Territory businesses $82m last year. Other costs include production disturbance costs, costs to the economy from lost human capital, and medical and administrative costs.
The costs of workplace incidents cannot be measured in dollars alone. Last year, four Territorians were tragically killed at work, and thousands were injured. The Northern Territory government considers these costs unacceptable, and for this reason commissioned the first comprehensive independent review of the Work Health Act in 20 years.
This review was conducted in the context of a decision by government in 2006 to amalgamate all safety regulatory activities into one agency. The review was undertaken by a company, Shaw Idea, which led a consortium of consultants who, together, had extensive experience in and knowledge of the occupational health and safety or OHS regulatory system.
Over time, stakeholders have represented to government various problems with the existing regulatory regime, including confusion over duties and responsibilities, unsatisfactory enforcement powers and lack of effective engagement and consultation mechanisms. The consultants were not asked to look at specific problems with the legislation. They were asked to focus on identifying features that will deliver the most effective outcomes for the future.
The brief was to review the existing Northern Territory OHS regulatory regime with an improvement focus, ensuring that proposed legislative changes: (a) reflect contemporary Australian practice; (b) adopt standards that are clear and accessible so that all parties know what they are expected to comply with; (c) take into account existing national commitment, for example, the National OHS Strategy and the National Mine Safety Framework; and (d) are suitable for all industries, including those identified as hazardous industries.
Earlier this year, I invited peak associations with a particular interest in OHS to be part of an industry-based OHS reference group. This group met with the consultants and provided valuable input into the review process. During the review’s consultation process, which culminated in a full-day future inquiry workshop, stakeholders agreed on three principles.
First, there was high level agreement by all stakeholders that everyone has an interest in and a responsibility for creating and maintaining safe work environments. Second, making workplaces safer can only be achieved through the cooperation of all stakeholders, including employers and workers. Finally, stakeholders agreed that government can best support safer workplaces by ensuring the Work Health Authority operates independently, reports directly to the responsible minister, and that its administrative arm, NT WorkSafe, is appropriately resourced.
The Shaw Review made a range of recommendations, most of which identified gaps between current Australian practice and the legislative framework in place in the Northern Territory. The final report of the Shaw Review was made available to the industry-based OHS Reference Group, stakeholders who furnished written submissions and was posted to the NT WorkSafe website in August this year.
A number of written submissions were received from stakeholders as a result of this ongoing consultation process. It is fair to say that the main areas canvassed in the various submissions focused on the consultation processes between employers and employees, particularly with regard to health and safety representatives and authorised union OHS representatives.
In drafting this legislation, government has taken into account the various positions of stakeholders on these issues and has ensured the appropriate checks and balances are in place to address the expressed concerns. I will go into further detail later as I discuss each part of the bills in more detail.
The Northern Territory government is committed to a range of policy decisions ensuring that Territorians are provided with safer working environments with the primary objective being a reduction in workplace injuries leading to increased productivity. These policy decisions are reflected in both bills and associated regulations.
The Workplace Health and Safety Bill replaces the existing Part IV, Occupational Health and Safety, of the Work Health Act. Its purpose is to provide a comprehensive occupational health and safety legislative framework covering all workplaces in the Northern Territory. It reflects modern workplace arrangements and is contemporary occupational health and safety legislation.
The Law Reform (Work Health) Amendment Bill deals with consequential amendments to the Mining Management Act, the Petroleum Act, Dangerous Goods Act and other affected legislation. The Law Reform (Work Health) Bill amends the title of the current Work Health Act to the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act to accurately reflect the purposes of that act.
It is evident that the focus of these two items of legislation is different, yet they have a high degree of inter-relationship. One focuses on prevention of workplace injury and the other focuses on rehabilitation, return to work and compensation for those who have suffered injuries. The synergies and the potential for conflict mean the two regulatory frameworks are best dealt with by a single authority.
Before looking to the detail in the bills, I will reflect on the Northern Territory government’s commitment to a revamped NT WorkSafe. The Working Safer package, which includes $2.3m in additional funding over three years, is in response to stakeholders’ concerns about the level of resourcing and the autonomy of the Work Health Authority. The funding will provide better support to business and workers through improved information and advisory services, more highly skilled and mobile Workplace Safety Officers, and stronger leadership in OHS for the Northern Territory. NT WorkSafe will have greater autonomy with the appointment of a new Executive Director reporting directly to the responsible minister.
I now turn to some of the details of the bill. Part 1 deals with preliminary matters, including a new Objects clause and the definition of key terms. The inclusion of an Objects clause spells out what this statute aspires to achieve. In particular, the Objects clause seeks to achieve the highest possible standards of OHS through the elimination of risk, provision of safe workplaces, cooperation between employers and employees, and raising awareness of OHS issues. The Objects are important as they provide guidance to decision-makers at a time when the courts increasingly adopt a purposive approach to statutory interpretation.
One of the recommendations put to government was to include in the definition of ‘occupational health’ an explicit recognition of psychosocial issues. Stakeholders have differing views on this recommendation. Whilst government recognises the changing nature of work and work hazards, it is not clear that an explicit reference to psychosocial issues is required. While some jurisdictions may be moving in this direction, it is not currently contemporary practice. There remains some uncertainty about the nature and scope of the hazards that might fall within this area. For example, there is debate about stress and fatigue, and what is good stress, stimulating work with little risk, and bad stress through excessive demands leading to harm. Similarly, the lines drawn around the overlap of work stress and rest-of-life stress are still contentious. As a consequence, government has deferred this recommendation in order for NT WorkSafe to undertake further analysis.
Several of the recommendations put to government related to the definition of ‘practicable’. The definition in the current Work Health Act of ‘practicable’ in effect means ‘reasonably practicable’, so in the interests of clarity, comprehension and consistency, the words ‘reasonably practicable’ now replace ‘practicable’ in all relevant sections of the new act, consistent with contemporary practice.
Employment arrangements in the Northern Territory today are very different from those in place 20 years ago when the current act was drafted. For this reason, the Workplace Health and Safety Bill has been drafted to be very broad, covering all workplaces, and protecting not just those who fall within the technical legal definition of ‘worker’, but also all those who could be adversely affected by activities at the workplace, including visitors and members of the public.
The bill strengthens the coverage of employment arrangements by including specifically contract workers, labour hire workers and volunteers. Again, this is in line with contemporary OHS legislation.
Part 2 sets out some matters relating to the administration of the act and allows for the continuation of the authority. Much of this part of the bill is drawn from the current Work Health Act. However, I draw to the attention of honourable members the following new provisions. As indicated earlier, in response to stakeholder views, government has increased the management capacity of NT WorkSafe through the appointment of an Executive Director. The Work Health Authority is constituted of the Executive Director who will report directly to the responsible minister. However, the Executive Director will maintain conventional reporting for specific requirements under the Financial Management Act and the Public Sector Employment and Management Act to the Chief Executive of the Department of Employment, Education and Training.
The current act provides the power for the authority to conduct inquiries and to examine witnesses. However, there is a lack of clarity relating to the conduct of such examinations, and the bill sets the parameters in which the authority can operate in this area.
The authority has the power to appoint officers to administer the act. The bill clarifies the functions of a Workplace Safety Officer with regard to authorised investigations. Recognising the employer’s and employee’s need for practical and constructive advice in fulfilling their OHS obligations, the bill explicitly identifies the advisory role of the Workplace Safety Officer.
The current Work Health Advisory Council has a dual role in relation to workers compensation and occupational health and safety. In practice, the main business of the current council focuses around the workers compensation elements of the act. Under the Law Reform (Work Health) Amendment Bill, the functions and membership of the current Work Health Advisory Council will be arranged to monitor workers’ rehabilitation and compensation matters only.
Part 3 of the Workplace Health and Safety Bill establishes a new Workplace Health and Safety Advisory Council consisting of 10 members representing employers, workers and the Executive Director in a tripartite advisory body reporting to the minister on matters relating to OHS. In recognising that some industries might be more intrinsically hazardous or more specialised than others, the bill provides for the establishment of subcommittees to assist the council with its functions. For example, a mining subcommittee may be formed to provide advice about mine-specific safety issues in the context of the Territory arising from the National Mine Safety framework. Subcommittees can co-opt members from outside the council.
I turn now to some of the most significant and important improvements in the bill dealing with consultation, participation and worker representation under Part 4.
Underpinning all Australian OHS statutes is the philosophy that greater consultation between workers and employers makes for more effective OHS at the workplace. All the contemporary research shows that when employees have input before decisions are made about OHS matters, workplaces have better health and safety outcomes. Whilst the current act provides for consultation with the workforce, in some fundamental aspects it falls well short of contemporary Australian practice. Part 4 establishes a duty on employers to consult with workers to enable them to contribute to the making of decisions affecting their health and safety at work. It provides guidance on how and when to consult, including: on risk identification and control; when changes to procedures, plant or materials might impact on OHS; and when deciding on the adequacy of facilities for OHS of workers. Quite rightly, the bill balances this against the reciprocal obligation of workers in regard to consultation. Whilst the final decision on OHS practice will always reside with the employer as the duty holder, the intention is that workers will be involved in the decision-making process, taking into account their views.
The intent of this part of the bill is to maximise opportunities for employers and employees to enter into dialogue before making decisions regarding OHS in the workplace. It is a proactive focus that allows employers, with the help of employees, to self-regulate and prevent accidents and injuries before they happen. The primary point of OHS consultation provided for in the bill is the election of Health and Safety Representatives by and from the workers in a work group. HSRs are the employees’ representative for OHS issues in the workplace and as such, HSRs have the important role of increasing participation and constructive discussion about occupational health and safety. Employees can be best placed to know about specific risks and hazards in a workplace, and the benefit of having trained HSRs is that they can listen to concerns and present them to the employer or management, making for better decisions.
Either an employer or an employee can initiate the election of an HSR. In this regard, it is important to note that the scheme is not mandatory. However, when the scheme is initiated by an employee, it will be mandatory for an employer to adopt clearly defined actions leading to the election of an HSR. The bill provides for the establishment of work groups, agreed processes for the election by employees of an HSR, and access by the HSR to accredited training. As part of its duty to consult, the employer is required to provide training and facilities and share information with an elected HSR.
Government recognises that the cost of election, support and training of HSRs could be a burden for small business. Accordingly, a decision has been taken to exempt small business, being employers with 10 or fewer workers, from the requirement unless the employer wishes to elect, train and support an HSR. In offering further options for small business in the Northern Territory, a provision has been included to allow for a shared or roving HSR. This will allow for the costs of the election, training and support of an HSR to be shared between groups of small businesses should they wish to do so. This provision is designed to allow those businesses wishing to collaborate to gain the benefits of a trained HSR. A roving HSR only has jurisdiction in those businesses that formally agree in writing to participate in the arrangement. It should also be made quite clear that this scheme must have the agreement of employers and workers alike. The shared or roving HSR has been successfully used in the construction industry in Victoria with multi-site employers and might be a useful mechanism for several small businesses in locations such as Casuarina Square.
An HSR is elected for two years and has a range of functions confined to workplace health and safety matters affecting the particular work group they have been elected to represent. The consultation process aims to resolve OHS issues without recourse to the authority. However, where consultation or negotiation on an appropriate OHS matter between the employer and HSR fails, the HSR has the specific power to issue a Notice of Safety Hazard advising the employer to address actually or perceived breaches of legislation and places the onus on the recipient to rectify the situation.
Advice from jurisdictions that have equivalent powers indicates that employers prefer to deal with an HSR rather than a Workplace Safety Officer. However, an employer is always able to seek assistance and direction from WorkSafe should they believe the notice is not warranted. A provision has been made for HSRs to have the collective right to cease dangerous work. This can only occur where an immediate threat to the health and safety of a person is evident. The authority’s guidance material will also detail the consultation processes that need to occur with the employer and the requirement to notify the authority if a direction to cease work is given.
An employer has every right to seek intervention by the authority should they not agree with decisions or actions of the HSR. Under the current act, workers have a right and a responsibility to cease work in an area where there is an immediate risk of severe injury to a worker at a workplace and where the employer does not remove the risk. This is retained in the bill.
A significant body of research demonstrates that having well trained HSRs in the workplace does bring about positive change in health and safety practices and there is a strong link between improved safety performance and accredited training of HSRs. An appropriate level of accredited training for HSRs is seen as essential for them to effectively engage with an employer on OHS risks and practices in the workplace. Most jurisdictions run a three- to four-day accredited OHS course for HSRs. Such a course will be developed in consultation with stakeholders to ensure the appropriate processes and content are covered, whilst minimising the impact on the employer through loss of productivity whilst the HSR is at training. Given the extent of this provision, NT WorkSafe will work with both employer and employee groups in developing guidance material that will assist in all aspects of HSRs. In addition, the government will undertake to pay for the initial training courses for HSRs in small to medium businesses which employ between 10 and 20 workers.
Provision for Health and Safety Committees continues to be an important consultation and participation mechanism in this bill on much the same basis as it currently applies. However, in recognising the primary importance of HSRs and consulting on and addressing OHS issues, the provision allows for them to seek the formation of a committee should they request it of an employer with 20 or more workers. Further, through the broadening of the definition of a worker, the provision now allows the involvement of subcontractors and other types of precarious workers such as labour hire workers in OHS committees.
The third element of consultation and worker participation is the role of Authorised Union OHS Representatives. This bill allows for an Authorised Union OHS Representative to constructively support HSRs, workers and employers in resolving OHS issues in the workplace. This division of the bill includes specific objects that make it clear that the balance between employers’ and employees’ rights and responsibilities must be maintained. The research to date is that health and safety performance is improved where trained and authorised union representatives are engaged with HSRs and employers in the workplace on OHS issues. In Australia, there has been a long tradition of allowing unions reasonable access to workplaces.
The Australian government’s Workplace Relations Act provides for entry to workplaces by authorised representatives of employee associations, including for OHS purposes. The Workplace Relations Act details the arrangements for such entry including permits and conditions, permitted activity whilst on-site, notice requirements, etcetera. It also prohibits misrepresentation regarding entry and activity on-site. These provisions apply to workplaces in the Northern Territory.
This act provides for access by registered union officials to Northern Territory workplaces to investigate suspected breaches of OHS laws. In these circumstances, access is permitted to workplaces where there are union members or where the union is a party to an award or a collective agreement covering workers at the workplace. A union representative can access the workplace after giving 24 hours notice to the employer to meet with people at the workplace who are members or eligible to be members during breaks.
Some stakeholders have expressed concern that allowing a union representative to enter a workplace for OHS reasons will lead to an abuse of power by union representatives and will be used as a tool to progress industrial relations issues. In response to this, a range of provisions in the bill places stringent conditions on the union representative. Only appropriately OHS trained and authorised union representatives can enter a work site under these provisions. In the spirit of cooperation, authorised union representatives are expected to make the employer aware of the workplace health and safety issue as soon as practicable after entry to a workplace. They are also required to comply with conditions out placed in the Commonwealth Workplace Relations Act.
Similarly, employers are not to hinder or obstruct an authorised union representative in carrying out their functions. Where entry is sought to discuss OHS matters with workers, eligible members of the registered employee association must be present and must agree to talk with the representative. The authorised representative must give 24 hours notice of their intention to have discussions and must meet during breaks in a location directed by the employer.
Entry other than on these conditions or circumstances is not allowed under this bill. The government’s belief is that unions have a positive role to play in supporting employees and employers in resolving workplace health and safety issues, and creating a cooperative and more proactive culture when it comes to risk prevention.
The bill makes it clear that the authority will be able to assist the parties in relation to the operation of these provisions. The government’s expectation is that the need for sanctions will not arise, but in the event that any individual does not hear the message, improper use of the powers will not be tolerated and tough sanctions will apply. Appropriate mechanisms for disqualification from holding HSR or authorised union representative powers have been made explicit in the bill, and will be enforced. There is also a right to sue for damages in the event of misuse of power which results in loss or damage to a business.
In introducing this part, I highlighted the significant role that consultation, cooperation and negotiation is to play in decision-making processes regarding workplace health and safety. NT WorkSafe will work with stakeholders to prepare guidance material relating to consultation, HSRs, Health and Safety Committees and Authorised Union Representatives to ensure that actions on the ground are guided by the intent of the bill.
Part 5 outlines the statutory duties of care. All Australian OHS statutes place general duties upon a range of parties, including employers to employees, and to person other than employees, self-employed people, people in control of workplaces, designers of plant and buildings, manufacturers, suppliers and importers of plant and substance, and employees. The general duty provisions ensure that all principal parties involved in the work process are subject to interlocking and overlapping duties that require them to do all that is reasonably practicable to complete or undertake work in a way that is safe. It gives the duty holder the freedom to develop his or her own solutions to OHS problems.
These general duties are absolute. That is, there is no need to prove intent or recklessness, but the extent of the duty is restricted to taking measures that are reasonably practicable. This means that any prosecution action must include proving all aspects of its case, including that the defendant failed to do what was reasonably practicable beyond reasonable doubt.
In the interests of certainty and clarity, the bill sets out how the employer should carry out the general duty by adopting a systematic approach to OHS. This clearly indicates that the outcome is the elimination of risk through a systematic approach, but still gives the duty holder choice in how to achieve that outcome.
Building design can have a critical influence on OHS outcomes. The inclusion of a duty on those who design, construct, manufacture, import, install or supply a workplace is contemporary practice, and is also an important preventative measure. Designing to avoid potential hazards in workplaces before they exist is effectively eliminating hazards at the source. The duty is limited to those matters which are under control of the designer.
The general duties imposed on employees remain unchanged in the bill. All jurisdictions have a requirement for certain types of serious incidents to be reported to the regulator. In the interests of clarity for employers and workers, Part 6 specifies what is a reportable incident and sets out the requirement for reporting incidents to the authority. Inspectors’ powers define the capacity to enforce an act. An act that fails to give inspectors adequate powers will be essentially toothless and will, in practice, not achieve its objects.
Part 7 of this bill deals with powers applicable to investigations. The powers under the current Northern Territory legislation are non-specific and give limited direction. The current act is silent on the power to enforce the act, the use of search warrants, the seizure of objects or material for evidence, as well as the power to compel answers and to give directions. This is in stark contrast to all other jurisdictions in which legislation gives detailed direction to reduce potential loopholes and gaps in the areas of investigation and enforcement. These deficiencies limit the capacity of the act to be used to gain and enforce compliance with OHS legislation or to facilitate prosecution.
The provisions under Part 7 address these deficiencies and provide Workplace Health and Safety Officers with the necessary powers to enable them to perform their compliance role efficiently and effectively. It gives them protection to conduct their work safely without being hindered or obstructed in their regulatory roles and it protects them from liability.
Having these powers does not detract from the educative function that is part of a regulatory role, and the authority will ensure the appropriate application of advisory, educative and compliance roles. Enforcement is essential for workplace health and safety legislation to achieve its objectives. Under the current act, the Northern Territory does not meet contemporary practice in the matter of enforcement strategies and powers. All jurisdictions in Australia now recognise the value of graduated enforcement measures. That is, having the capacity to gradually escalate the level of sanctions to the top of an enforcement pyramid whilst ensuring the majority of their effort is focused on less interventionist approaches where these seem likely to achieve the desired change in behaviour.
Part 8 sets out enforcement measures that reflect an appropriate balance between persuasion and punishment. The bill provides the authority with a range of enforcement options. It allows the use of persuasive approaches to support a duty holder to meet obligations whilst retaining the option to use punitive measures in those cases where legal force is necessary. An important mechanism in the graduated enforcement regime relates to the enforcement tools available to the authority. The provisions allow for the authority to enter into an agreement with the alleged offender to take specific actions to remedy or guard against future contraventions. Under these agreements, a duty holder who has allegedly breached the obligations under the bill could undertake to do something which, if not done, is enforced in court. The duty holder enters into the orders voluntarily, and the authority may accept the activities associated with the order as an alternative to prosecution action through the courts. The intention of such orders is to ensure that effort and resources are directed to where they can have a positive effect on OHS outcomes.
The bill ensures that the appropriate level of corporate officer who makes key decisions in relation to OHS can be held personally accountable for those decisions. It is evident that an officer cannot be held accountable for a safety breach which he/she could not reasonably have been expected to know about or over which he/she has no control. Again, this accords with contemporary OHS practice.
The penalties for failure to comply with the Work Health Act are currently the lowest in the country. Indeed, they are so low that some stakeholders have indicated that some employers might budget for fines because it is cheaper than compliance. The Mining Management Act currently has a maximum penalty of up to 12 500 penalty units for a body corporate, and a maximum of up to 2500 penalty units for an individual where there is an intentional breach of duty by a duty holder who ought to know the offence may result in death and which, in fact, did cause death.
The maximum penalty for this particular circumstance will be maintained in the Workplace Health and Safety Act. In other circumstances, the bill brings the maximum penalty for a corporation to 5000 penalty units, with penalties to 7000 penalty units for aggravated offences. For individuals, the maximum penalty has been set at 1000 penalty units. This takes the Northern Territory penalty regime to the middle range amongst other jurisdictions. Of course, it is up to the court in each case to decide what penalty applies in the range up to the maximum but, generally, I would expect to see penalties applied by the court to increase.
Custodial sentences in the current act still apply in the new bill. Despite some stakeholders believing that the bill should include an offence of industrial manslaughter, this does not represent contemporary practice in Australia and it is not included in this bill.
Part 9 provides for a range of review and appeal provisions that more accurately reflect contemporary practice. The bill provides for transparency by adopting clearly defined review provisions that allow the application of both internal and external review.
Part 10 contains miscellaneous provisions. Employees’ representatives such as HSRs have a critical role to play in improving OHS outcomes. In discharging their responsibilities, they may come into conflict with their employer or other workers. They must feel secure in their employment in order to be effective. For this reason, discrimination against a worker on the grounds of OHS activity is prohibited. The bill provides that once the discrimination is proved, the employer has the burden of proof on the balance of probabilities to show that OHS activity was not the predominant reason for the discrimination. This bill allows for the act to be reviewed every five years thereby providing for Northern Territory OHS legislation to remain contemporary.
A general duties approach to OHS regulation involves the use of regulations and codes of practice to provide the detail on how the general duties are to be achieved. As actions from the National Mine Safety Framework Agreement have progressed, it will be necessary to include specific mine safety regulations. The bill allows for those regulations to be made under the Work Health (Occupational Health and Safety) Regulations.
In concluding the discussion relating to the Workplace Health and Safety Bill, I extend my sincere thanks to those members of the industry-based reference group and other stakeholders who made submissions and provided valuable guidance during the period of consultation, review and reform. While some stakeholders may have reservations with some aspects of the bill, it is evident that in the main, there is consensus that improving workplace health and safety is a priority for government, industry, employers, employees and the community.
I now turn to the legislation introduced under the Law Reform (Work Health) Bill which deals with consequential amendments made to other legislation arising from the enactment of this bill. Part 2 separates the current Work Health Act into two bills, creating the Workers Rehabilitation and Compensation Act from the existing legislation relating to workers compensation. Amendments in the interpretation section reflect the Executive Director acting as the authority, and tidy up the bill where the removal of OHS aspects have an impact on definitions in other parts of the current Work Health Act.
Part 3 amends the Petroleum Act to transfer administrative responsibility for OHS regulation of onshore construction activity in production facilities to the Workplace Health and Safety Act. Once production facilities commence operations, responsibility for OHS regulation shifts to the Petroleum Act.
Part 4 amends the Dangerous Goods Act to allow the act to apply to all industry sectors, including mining.
Part 5 amends the Mining Management Act to remove all references to OHS.
Part 6 amends the Work Health Regulations to include changes to risk management to give a clearer definition of the hierarchy of control, and to emphasise the elimination of risk as a primary goal. It also allows for the insertion of mining operation regulations once agreement around mine-specific safety regulations are finalised from the National Mine Safety Framework. Transitional arrangements allow for current Mine Management Plans to be enforced until further regulations relating to OHS Risk Management Plans are published in the Gazette.
Part 7 provides for transitional arrangements to allow the Work Health (Occupational Health and Safety) Regulations to be taken as regulations under the proposed Workplace Health and Safety Act.
Madam Speaker, I am pleased to present this legislation package to the parliament as the government is committed to doing all we can to keep Territorians working safer.
In conclusion, I thank officers at WorkSafe NT who have done an enormous amount of work in pulling this together. It has been a huge body of work, and my sincere thanks to officers of the department for their contributions. I commend the bills to honourable members.
Debate adjourned.
BONAPARTE GAS PIPELINE
(SPECIAL PROVISIONS) BILL
(Serial 119)
(SPECIAL PROVISIONS) BILL
(Serial 119)
Bill presented and read a first time.
Ms MARTIN (Chief Minister): Madam Speaker, I move that the bill be now read a second time.
The purpose of this bill is to make special provisions in connection with the Bonaparte Gas Pipeline project. This project is a significant investment by the Power and Water Corporation and the Australian Pipeline Trust in the Northern Territory’s energy infrastructure and sustainable future. The Bonaparte Gas Pipeline project involves the construction and operation of an underground gas pipeline and associated infrastructure. The pipeline is approximately 280 km in length and will transport gas from ENIs onshore gas processing facility near Wadeye to a connection on the existing Amadeus Basin to Darwin pipeline on Ban Ban Springs Station.
Major projects such as the Bonaparte Gas Pipeline project are expected to operate within the Territory’s existing laws. However, there are circumstances where it is necessary to modify the Territory’s laws to enable the project to be constructed and operated in the most practical way. Where this is required, the approach has been to identify and clearly set out in legislation modifications to existing Territory laws. Following consultation with the Power and Water Corporation, the Australian Pipeline Trust and their legal advisors, I am pleased to report that only a handful of modifications have been found necessary to support the project.
The bill creates statutory rights in relation to road and waterway crossings; these rights are required to maintain continuity of the pipeline corridor. The rights are exercisable with the relevant minister’s consent with conditions after which the Bonaparte Gas Pipeline may be constructed and operated. The grant of this right may be subject to conditions concerning matters such as safety and construction.
The bill creates a mechanism to enable Authority Certificates issued under the Northern Territory Aboriginal Sacred Sites Act in connection with the Bonaparte Gas Pipeline to be relied upon the by the project participants, including contractors, subject to the same conditions, whether the project participants were the applicant or not. This mechanism allows future owners of the pipeline to have the benefit of and the obligations imposed by the Authority Certificate.
The Power and Water Corporation and the Australian Pipeline Trust are negotiating with owners of land comprising the pipeline corridor. The tenure being negotiated on parts of the pipeline corridor contained within a pastoral lease is an easement. The bill makes it clear that an easement in gross may be granted over pastoral land. The easement, when granted, will be subject to the Law of Property Act.
The Bonaparte Gas Pipeline project is scheduled to commence construction in the Dry Season of 2008. At that time, the project participants will be seeking extractive minerals, which are sand, soil and gravel, to construct and maintain access routes during construction as well as provide bedding material for the pipeline.
The bill removes the advertising and objection periods for the grant of Extractive Mineral Permit or Licence under the Mining Act granted for the benefit of the Bonaparte Gas Pipeline. Where the project participants have the consent of the owner/occupier of the land proposed for the taking of extractives, the consent of any holder of any existing Mining Tenement or Exploration Licence over the land proposed for the taking of extractives and, where required, the proponents have complied with the requirements of the Native Title Act 1993 and, if the land is Aboriginal land, the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act 1976 about taking of extractive minerals on the land.
Finally, the bill provides that the pipeline corridor is exempt from subdivision requirements of the Planning Act.
I commend this bill to honourable members and table the explanatory statement to accompany the bill.
Debate adjourned.
JUSTICE LEGISLATION
AMENDMENT BILL (No 2)
(Serial 122)
AMENDMENT BILL (No 2)
(Serial 122)
Bill presented and read a first time.
Mr STIRLING (Justice and Attorney-General): Madam Speaker, I move that the bill be now read a second time.
The purpose of this bill is to amend four acts that fall within the Justice portfolio. The acts amended in this bill are the Construction Contracts (Security of Payments) Act, the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act, the Legal Profession Act, and the Victims of Crime Assistance Act. I will detail the amendments in the order in which they are contained in the bill.
The first set of amendments is to the Construction Contracts (Security of Payments) Act. Under the bill, the existing 28 day time limit for bringing an application for adjudication of a payment dispute involving a construction bill has been extended to 90 days. This amendment is proposed following construction industry advice that most businesses work a 30-day invoice cycle. The current 28 day limit means that in effect, these businesses have no time to lodge an application for adjudication should a payment dispute arise. The amendment will enable ample time for invoices to be issued as well as giving the parties an opportunity to resolve disputes themselves before lodging a complaint with the Construction Contracts Registrar.
The bill also clarifies that applicants who have lodged an application for adjudication on a payment dispute are able to withdraw the application prior to adjudication. In addition, the bill ensures that once an adjudicator is appointed to hear a matter, they are entitled to be paid if the matter is withdrawn prior to determination, if they dismiss the application or if they make a determination. Adjudicators often spend many hours preparing to hear disputes which may be resolved by the parties at the last minute. Under such circumstances, it is appropriate they should be paid for their time and effort.
The final amendment to the Construction Contracts (Security of Payments) Act will permit adjudicators to make decisions about costs should an application be withdrawn prior to determination. This will address the situation where a party institutes vexatious or frivolous claims against other companies and then withdraws at the last moment. It will also mean that companies that are inconvenienced by the failure of a client to pay a bill and to instigate proceedings need not be held liable for the costs of adjudication if they receive payment immediately prior to the adjudication hearing.
I turn to the second set of amendments in this bill, which apply to the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act. The amendments have also come about as the result of feedback from stakeholders, this time from police and prosecutors who regularly bring proceedings under the act. The bill amends the scheme so that Interim Restraining Orders will operate for three working days. These types of orders are normally obtained by police in extraordinary circumstances where property suspected of being derived from criminal activity is at risk of being disposed of prior to proceedings being formally commenced in a court. The difficulty arises when police seek these orders and the date of expiration falls on a weekend or a public holiday. Interim Restraining Orders cannot be extended. By amending the act to allow Interim Restraining Orders to run over a period of working days, police can now apply for such an order knowing that it will not expire over a period such as Easter or Christmas or when the courts are not sitting.
The second amendment to the Criminal Property Forfeiture Act removes the three-month time limit for the operation of court-issued Restraining Orders. Those working in the field indicated that the task of serving Restraining Order notices often consumed disproportionate time and resources, particularly when the property and potential owners span several jurisdictions. By the time all interested parties are located and served with the Notice of Restraining Order, the three month period had virtually expired and prosecutors have to start the process all over again.
This is not an efficient use of resources which could be better spent examining claims to lawful ownership of property and challenging those who are unable to justify the existence or ownership of property in the courts. The proposed amendment will lift the time limit for the operation of a Restraining Order. It will be a matter for the court to determine how long a Restraining Order or an extension of a Restraining Order shall operate. It should be noted, however, that the amendment will not interfere in any way with the right to apply to the court to have an order lifted. Where a person is capable of establishing lawful ownership of property, the amendment will not affect their access to the courts.
Madam Speaker, the third act to which amendments are proposed under this bill is the Legal Profession Act. A set of technical amendments is proposed to ease the transition to the new act when the costs assessment provisions commence in December of this year. Costs assessments relate to the cost of legal services in any disputes that may arise in relation to them. The new provisions enable specially appointed costs assessors to determine whether the amount of legal costs paid is appropriate or to impose an amount of costs that is a fair and reasonable substitute.
If a particular legal issue arises in addition to the question of costs, the costs assessor may refer the matter to the Supreme Court. Alternatively, the costs assessor may issue a certificate stating exactly how much each party is liable to pay. If the parties remain dissatisfied with the decision of the costs assessor, they may apply to have the decision reviewed in relation to a determination, setting aside an initial costs agreement, the certificate specifying the particular determination of a costs assessor, or for a certificate specifying the costs each party must pay for the costs assessment.
The bill also clarifies that any suitable lawyer may be appointed as a costs assessor. This ensures that the Supreme Court Masters and Judicial Registrars are included. The current provision states that a costs assessor must be a legal practitioner. This carries a requirement that the lawyer holds a valid practising certificate. This is not something required by Masters and Registrars and so would preclude them from engaging in this important task.
The final act to be amended by the bill is the Victims of Crime Assistance Act. This is also a technical amendment which clarifies that bodies corporate as well as individuals found guilty of criminal offences are liable to pay the victims’ levy if their sentence is not one of imprisonment. Corporate bodies are regularly prosecuted for breaches of environmental laws, road safety laws and work health and safety provisions. A penalty imposed on a corporate body is usually a monetary penalty. Government considers that corporations which commit crimes should not be exempt from paying the victims’ levy, particularly since the offending behaviour often has serious ramifications for the community.
The amendment ensures that those corporations, no matter how big or small, which engage in criminal activity will be liable to pay not only whatever monetary penalty the court sees fit to impose but also a levy which is then used to provide much needed assistance to victims of crime. The amount of the victims’ levy to be imposed on corporations under the amendment is in line with general policy on the proportion of corporate fines and comparison with individual limits.
I commend the bill to honourable members and table a copy of the explanatory statement.
Debate adjourned.
WATER AMENDMENT BILL
(Serial 121)
(Serial 121)
Bill presented and read a first time.
Ms LAWRIE (Natural Resources, Environment and Heritage): Madam Speaker, I move that the bill be now read a second time.
This bill delivers an important first stage of an election promise to review the Water Act, and is a significant step towards guaranteeing transparency and accountability in statutory decision-making with regard to water extraction licensing.
The act is a critical component of a suite of Territory environmental and resource management law. It provides for the Territory’s ground and surface water resources to be actively managed through Water Allocation Plans designed to protect both environmental and cultural uses, and to establish the amount of water available for purposes such as domestic use, irrigation, industry and stock watering, the consumptive pool.
Water Allocation Plans are being developed on a priority basis in areas under most pressure from increased consumptive use. The plans will articulate the amount of water allocated to each of the declared beneficial uses, and the rules and regulations associated with water extraction in the area of the plan, including, for example, water trading and alteration of allocations.
The act regulates access to water entitlements drawn from the consumptive pool through licensing arrangements. Currently there are in the order of 116 licences operating to extract groundwater, and 68 licences to extract surface water. The number of licences is expected to increase quite substantially as Water Allocation Plans are completed. Since licences govern access to the water resource, they are the primary mechanism to ensure that individually, licensees are legally accountable for the water extracted and that collectively, entitlements remain within established sustainable limits.
Licensing of water extraction allows comprehensive regulation to ensure that the resource is protected from overuse and from pollution. The over-allocation and over-use of water for consumptive purposes is a major cause of river degradation and lack of water security in every other Australian jurisdiction. Accordingly, the nature and adequacy of licensing arrangements for water extraction are the subject of considerable external attention by both water consumers and those with a non-consumptive interest in the use or health of the resources such as indigenous landholders, anglers, tourist operators and non-government environment groups.
The Territory is in a unique position, very different from the rest of Australia, where water resources have not been over-allocated. However, careful management is now required to ensure that we remain in this position and ensure that sufficient allocation of water resources is made to the environment and for cultural purposes. We want to protect our precious water resources as we enter a new phase in the Territory’s development, particularly with regard to agricultural development.
As a signatory to the National Water Initiative, the Territory has particular obligations to water reform. These include: requirements to put in place transparent, contestable processes for considering and reviewing approvals; sound information available to all sectors at key decision points and full public access to Water Entitlement Registers; and open planning processes and careful monitoring of the performance of water plans with regular public reporting.
A simple set of transparency and accountability provisions are therefore proposed by way of amendment to the act and Water Regulations. The proposed amendments build on the intent of the existing provisions and would see: the discretionary objections-based process for surface water extraction replaced with a non-discretionary public notification and comment process that applies to both surface and groundwater extraction licences; the existing provision for a register enhanced by creating a public register containing relevant licensing information including levels of permitted water extraction; and an obligation on the Controller of Water Resources to publish a statement of reasons for either granting or refusing a water extraction licence.
The proposed amendments are not complex and add no entirely new processes to the act, but rather refine and remove discretion to dispense with existing processes. A requirement to give reasons for decisions is consistent with much Territory administrative law, especially in relation to applications for licences or entitlement in which there is a legitimate public interest.
The proposed amendments are consistent with provisions already established for land clearing, where applications are routinely advertised and information on permits is publicly accessible.
Achieving a degree of consistency in the manner in which the community can contribute and gain access to information on the licensing processes for both water extraction and land clearing will considerably strengthen the government’s capacity to outwardly demonstrate that key natural resource management decisions are rigorous, robust, and consistent with sustainability principles.
While individually, the amendments are not sufficient to fully address the Territory’s National Water Initiative obligations, the improved transparency and accountability achieved through these amendments will meet some repeated concerns of the National Water Commission about processes for public engagement in water allocation in the Territory.
In a climate in which the Australian government appears increasingly restless over water reform and implementation of the National Water Initiative, the proposed amendments represent a useful first step in demonstrating that the Territory is seriously addressing its National Water Initiative commitments. By demonstrating continuing commitment to the National Water Initiative reform, the amendments will assist in securing continued National Water Initiative funding from the Australian government. To date, the Territory has been successful in obtaining $1.8m in Water Smart Australia funding under the National Water Initiative. Further funding applications from the Territory are currently under consideration by the Australian government.
It should be noted that the proposed amendments do not represent a complete overhaul of the act. Consistent with election commitments, and taking into account National Water Initiative obligations, a full review of the act has commenced and will take until the end of 2008 to complete. This second stage of the review will also take into account advice of the recently announced Environment Protection Authority in respect of its overall evaluation of environmental laws.
Public reaction to proposals for more open and accountable decision-making on water is likely to be overwhelmingly positive, particularly given current sentiment. State governments across Australia are widely regarded as having failed to provide sound management of water to permit productive rural and urban use while avoiding environmental damage. Changing the Water Act has been identified as desirable through a number of formal and informal processes.
I hope I have made it clear that these initial amendments to the Water Act will go a long way towards improving transparency and accountability in respect of decisions taken on water extraction. It will vastly improve public confidence in the processes by which water resources are allocated and managed, and will help to satisfy obligations to water reform as set out in the National Water Initiative.
Water management in the Australia has an appalling track record in other jurisdictions and it is of vital importance that we get it right, to do that in an open and transparent manner, but more importantly, to do it in partnership with the community which depends on the ability to access water resources for economic, social, cultural and environmental prosperity.
Madam Speaker, I commend the bill the Assembly and table a copy of the explanatory statement.
Debate adjourned.
TABLED PAPER
Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community Report –
Substance Abuse in Remote Communities: Overcoming the Confusion and Disconnection
Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community Report –
Substance Abuse in Remote Communities: Overcoming the Confusion and Disconnection
Ms ANDERSON (Macdonnell): Madam Speaker, I table the report of the Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community titled Substance Abuse in Remote Communities: Overcoming the Confusion and Disconnection, and transcripts of evidence from the committee’s inquiry.
MOTION
Note Paper - Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community Report –
Substance Abuse in Remote Communities: Overcoming the Confusion and Disconnection
Note Paper - Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community Report –
Substance Abuse in Remote Communities: Overcoming the Confusion and Disconnection
Ms ANDERSON (Macdonnell): Madam Speaker, I move that the Assembly take note of the report and this tabling statement.
As my fellow members will be aware from the interim statement I delivered earlier this year, this report comes from an inquiry the committee began 18 months ago. The committee travelled to communities in Central Australia and the Top End speaking to people about substance abuse, its effects and what is being done about it. We have heard some powerful stories along the way, terrible things about the price paid for substance abuse, and the good things about what is being done about it by strong people in the communities.
That is the main message of the report: this twofold message of terrible harms on the one hand, and the important good things that are being done to address them. This is not cause to despair. There are things that can be done to make things better. We need to keep in good heart so we can support those good things and spread them throughout the Territory. There is no reason why the situation needs to be, as it often has, chewing up people’s lives as though they were worth nothing. The solution is in our hands together.
These lives do mean something. These people are fathers and mothers, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters. They have aspirations and they will be more able to pursue them if we can follow through and reduce the ill effects of substance abuse. That is what these communities need: a break, a respite from substance abuse so they can start thinking and planning and bring their young ones up through education and look after their old people. These are normal things, but so precious.
So there is good and bad. We need to support one and be firm in the face the other. Truly inspirational are the people already doing this on the ground. These are often people who get started without anything in the way of external money, who just started because they cared, and kept on for the same reason; strong people who make a difference.
There are also people who are not local who bring different skills and perspectives to their work in the communities. We met many of these people and they appear in the pages of the report and the transcripts of evidence, telling us how they do their work and why. It is indeed a story of care and commitment, often in the face of tough conditions. Out of this comes a picture of an agreed approach on how to tackle these issues.
With all the bad news reported in the media, it is perhaps tempting to think ‘How terrible’ and do nothing. These people show us how wrong this is. With consistent funding, programs can take people away from substance abuse and show them another way of living. Clients get back a sense of self-respect and responsibility, and get the benefit of time on country. If the supply of substances – alcohol, petrol and ganja – is reduced, and there is access to rehab and there is an effective recreation program then this, as one witness said, forms a ‘killer combination’ that really does stem the tide. So things can be better. Remote communities have been brought back from the brink of collapse by this approach, so we know it works.
Supply reduction, demand reduction and rehabilitation - responsibility, community engagement and negotiation – are the central pillars that we as a committee heard about again and again. They add up to an established body of good practice to counter substance abuse in remote communities. Community-based services right across the Territory told the committee about this. What we need to do together is pick up and support these initiatives, fund them properly, and follow through to make a big change to the situation in the Northern Territory. We also need to address supply issues right across the Territory.
Believe me, we saw ample evidence of how necessary this is. Where communities are under the thumb of widespread substance abuse, almost nothing can go right. Children cannot get enough sleep or feel safe enough to go to school. Adults, too, do not feel safe, and their job prospects are affected. Where substance abuse is not controlled, even the modest assets that communities hold in common such as community stores are raided and disrupted to the detriment of all, as though they had nothing else extra to give away.
But where the tide of substance abuse is halted, wonderful things happen. As one witness said, communities can then have ‘space’ to think about other things. They can plan for the future, rather than simply react to what substance abuse throws in their path. They can think about getting their kids to school, about preventative measures and ways to deal with other things they need to think about. We can unlock a lot of local talent just by putting the brakes on substance abuse.
Many of the positive things I have talked about so far can be seen in Alcohol Management Plans where they are up and running. The plan at Groote Eylandt shows the community choosing to sacrifice a little freedom of access to alcohol so that they can have less harm from it. Limits have been chosen by the community itself in a process of negotiation amongst all players. The responsibility, the ownership, stays with the community. That is why the plan continues to be a positive influence and why people in the community are willing to comply with it: this is a real-world agreement. As a result, communities on Groote Eylandt have seen big reductions in violence and property crime, there are more local people being employed by the local mine and they are building a new resort.
These are the good things that come when this great weight, substance abuse, is taken off a community. They can marshal their resources to do things for their community members and look to the future with greater optimism. By this, relationships within the community are strengthened, and this, too, builds the community up.
There are challenges ahead. The history of the Groote Eylandt plan shows us that extended negotiation is needed at community level, and a lot of goodwill to stay the distance and get a result. Some communities will find that harder than others. For the committee, the important thing is the message. There are things that can be done, and established approaches that work that can be used to stop the damage done to many remote communities in 40 years of widespread substance abuse.
Alcohol Management Plans might look rather different from other measures I have talked about today, but they are not so very different. The same basic elements apply: supply reduction, demand reduction and rehabilitation, engaging the community and keeping a sense of ownership. That is what the committee has seen and heard in its travels across the Territory. That is how you do it; there is no great mystery.
We need to think about what we can do to support this best-practice approach. How does government get behind this and ensure that since we have good tools, they are being used out there? There is no excuse for not doing something good.
The committee identified a few key areas where things can be done differently, and where we can expect clear benefits if we do. One is a change in funding processes. The short-term nature of funding has been a cause of concern for quite some time, but it still seems to be getting in the way of community-based programs. It limits their capacity to plan and restricts the amount of preventative work they can do. They could do so much more with a bit more follow through from government. When that does not happen, the momentum and the commitment from the community is stopped, and they have to start again. They should not have to do that.
By the same token, there are times case management and follow-ups are compromised because of insufficient capacity in the Territory Department of Family and Community Services. In real life, people come to harm because of this. This is just one part of larger lack of coordination that lets substance abuse get out of hand. We need to shut that down by having consistent responses for each of the main substances of abuse across the Territory, and an overall framework that covers the ways they interact.
At a community level, there have been shortfalls in coordination and service delivery by government agencies, and the committee has seen how this, too, has added to substance abuse, making harms worse. Local government reforms show signs of addressing these problems, and the committee views these changes with interest.
Looking at the big picture, we need to put our limited resources to the best possible use if we are to make headway on substance abuse. Better coordination is one part of this. Another part is to make sure that we have the information we need to make choices on funding priorities. We need more research, particularly on cannabis, to ensure we can make the best decisions in the future based on evidence so that we can get the best result for our money.
It is true that there are many challenges ahead. Remoteness is an obstacle and, added to that, we have cultural differences and an historical legacy that is hard to ignore. That is all the more reason, then, to respond to substance abuse in a more concerted, practical way and to maintain our resolve so we can one day put this behind us.
As I have already said, there are many good people out there who are giving much and are making a difference. Members of the committee wanted to feed back to them their appreciation and support for what they are doing and has produced this DVD for this purpose. It is intended as a message of support, of caring and understanding of the problems which too many communities face. I have copies of the DVD for the information of members.
Madam Speaker, before closing, I place on the record my appreciation of the work and dedication of my fellow committee members. I have felt 100% supported by them during the course of the inquiry, and I know that they have been as committed to it and wanting to make a difference as I have. I know that we in this Assembly can make a difference and provide for a better future for our communities, a future which is not marred by substance abuse and its catastrophic impacts.
Mrs MILLER (Katherine): Madam Speaker, it is with a great deal of pride that I speak to the Report on Substance Abuse in the Community: Confronting the Confusion and Disconnection. This is a result of the hard work that has been put in by the Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community.
I was appointed to the Substance Abuse committee when I first entered parliament in 2003, and was reappointed to the committee, together with current members, on 17 August 2005. I can honestly say that this committee has been a pleasure to work on. There is bipartisan cooperation between the members, and each and every member has a sincere commitment to achieving outcomes that we believe are workable and sustainable for our Territory communities.
Problems associated with substance abuse in the Northern Territory have been around for many years, and were well and truly evident when I first arrived in the Territory in late 1989. The most obvious problem in Katherine then was alcohol and, for most of the communities, regional and remote, including Katherine, still is. However, more obvious in recent years is the destruction that petrol and cannabis wreak, especially on our indigenous population. The terms of reference to which the committee worked gave us the flexibility to investigate as comprehensively as we could the effects of alcohol, petrol and cannabis on our indigenous communities.
The first of our community visits to listen to the people living in Central Australia were organised for April and May 2006. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend community meetings at Papunya, Harts Range and Engawala on the Plenty Highway as I was still recovering from a vehicle accident which happened in March. I was disappointed that I did not get to hear what these community members had to say face-to-face, because there is such a difference in each of them as to what their problems were and are, and how they were handling them within their own communities. I had to rely on the transcripts for that information and what other members have discussed. I have to say it is not quite the same as listening in person to those people and hearing their concerns.
However, other members of the committee have reported that it was very interesting to see the significant differences in community handling of substance abuse from one side of the Stuart Highway to the way communities on the other side address their problems. Despite the fact that I still was not feeling A1, when the committee planned to travel to northern communities, I was determined that I would go to find out for myself how these communities were handling their problems. I am so glad that I did.
The committee travelled to Groote Eylandt, and the people who presented to us there were inspiring. It was an absolute delight to hear of just how much has occurred on the island, and it is through the determination and perseverance of community members who wanted better outcomes for their families, with strict control on the sale and consumption of alcohol. The support of the whole community to changes in the use and abuse of alcohol have completely changed the way that indigenous people are living and working on the island.
It was, indeed, inspiring, and something that came as a surprise to all of the members of the committee to listen to the presentations of those community members to realise just how much work had been going on that we were not aware of. We came away from Groote Eylandt uplifted and absolutely relieved that we had seen such happy community members who were in control of their families and their lives. We were all inspired by what we had seen and heard. It certainly felt good to listen to what the community people on the island had done to get to where they are now.
Our next stop was Nhulunbuy, and that was a little different in that their control of substance abuse was still going through the community consultation and negotiation process. There is a sincere effort to come to workable solutions in addressing substance abuse. Because of Nhulunbuy’s location, the demographics are all together different from Groote Eylandt and, therefore, the model used on the island needed some modifications to work on the mainland.
The following day, the committee travelled to Wadeye. I have to say that we went from seeing so much enthusiasm on Groote Eylandt with successful programs supporting the communities to what I can only describe as absolute despair from some of the community members who presented to us at Wadeye. It is fair to say that there, every one of the committee members was deeply moved listening to how the women and children live every day of their lives with just about everything that we take for granted in our daily lives being non-existent in theirs. We listened to these women who have been living in the community all of their lives tell us so candidly what they experience. It is no wonder they have such a sense of despair.
One of these women had around 15 extra children or people living in her three-bedroom house, including some of her grandchildren, because her daughter could not look after them. She is a teacher at the school and, because of the overcrowding in her home, she has nowhere to prepare the lessons for her students except to go to school earlier each day to do it, where she has some peace and calm surrounding her. It is no wonder she looked so exhausted. She is very giving of herself, but has no time to concentrate on her own health and wellbeing.
Our visit to Wadeye has had more impact on me than any community I have ever visited, and has made me more than ever want to do so much to see significant changes implemented to help women and children like these in that community. I feel that, as a committee, we have an obligation to ensure that the recommendations we have made are accepted in the manner in which they are intended. They are as a result of lengthy consultation with the people who are really affected by substance abuse. We owe it to these people who talked candidly to us to ensure that their voices are listened to and acted upon and that their concerns are respected.
The recommendations that the committee has made have been developed after comprehensive consultation with many communities and after long deliberations within the committee. I am very comfortable with the 15 recommendations in the report. They are comprehensive and address a wide range of social issues and, if implemented, will make a significant change for the people who live in these communities. Without a doubt, many of the issues facing most of these communities relate to poor housing, overcrowded housing, lack of education, poor health outcomes, and lack of meaningful employment. All of these challenges obviously contribute to the high levels of substance abuse that is so prevalent in some of these communities.
One of the findings that the committee identified was that there are many different agencies and non-government organisations which are providing similar services in addressing substance abuse. I have to agree that it is a little confusing trying to sort through the myriad of assistance that is available, and working out which is the most appropriate for one’s community.
When I was trying to sort out all of the agencies in Katherine alone, it made me wonder if there could be better management of finances and coordinated programs to address the issues of substance abuse more directly and with a higher degree of successful outcomes. I am not suggesting for a moment that programs available at present do not have the best intentions, but a much better coordinated approach would be better all round financially and for quicker, more successful outcomes.
Recommendation 10 states that our committee recommends that agencies follow a practice of consistent and coordinated consultation between themselves when dealing with matters affecting individual communities, and recognise the importance of representation of local people if services are to be appropriate.
The 15 recommendations that we, as a coordinated, bipartisan and caring committee, have put in our report come under the headings of: coordination of effort; petrol; alcohol; cannabis; indicators for all substances; assessing services, needs and resources in remote communities; existing services and their interface with government; human resources for community-based services; network view of key elements in communities; governance, ownership and resilience; regulation and policing in communities; housing and health; employment; education; and recreation. We have noted our findings and our recommendations for each of these 15 areas, and I strongly encourage all members of this Assembly read through this report - it will relate to your electorates as well.
Our journey as a committee to the point where we are today with this presentation of the report to the Assembly could not have been possible without the support and assistance of the Committee Secretariat. I thank the Committee Secretary, Pat Hancock; Research Officer, Dr Brian Lloyd; Research and Administrative Assistant, Kellie Trout; and Committee Support Assistant, Kim Cowcher, for the fabulous work they have done in support of our committee. Members asked all the questions and certainly came up with some interesting documentation, but the amount of work that has gone into collating all of this information from our community briefings and committee meetings is to be highly commended, and that was done by the committee staff I have mentioned. Elected members would never have the time to be able to present such a well drafted report, so thank you Pat, Brian, Kellie and Kim for the wonderful support that you have given us.
To add a personal touch to the report, our Chair, Alison Anderson, painted a beautiful piece of art that she has given to the committee which is titled, and I hope I get the pronunciation right, member for Macdonnell, Kuyawana Putukulini, which represents confusion and disconnection, as the report is very appropriately entitled. The cover of the transcript provided today depicts that painting. I should add that the findings and recommendations detailed in this report have been strengthened by the knowledge and understanding that our Chair has of the underlying problems in our indigenous communities. That knowledge has been of great benefit to this committee when visiting the communities.
Next week, the Chair, the member for Macdonnell, the member for Port Darwin, and I, with the Committee Secretary, Pat Hancock, will be attending the 4th Australasian Drug Strategy Conference on the Gold Coast. Quite apart from the additional knowledge that will be shared through the presentation by eminent speakers, we are delighted that our Chair has been asked to make a presentation to the conference which is titled ‘Substance Abuse in Territory Remote Communities: Where to Now?’ We are very privileged that this presentation will mirror the work that the Substance Abuse committee has done over the past two years.
Madam Speaker, there is so much more that can be said about this report. I recommend that each and every member reads their copy and supports its findings and that the recommendations will be taken in the spirit that they were intended by government.
Members: Hear, hear!
Debate suspended.
MOTION
Note Paper - Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community Report –
Substance Abuse in Remote Communities:
Overcoming the Confusion and Disconnection
Note Paper - Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community Report –
Substance Abuse in Remote Communities:
Overcoming the Confusion and Disconnection
Continued from earlier this day.
Mr KNIGHT (Daly): Madam Speaker, I support the Substance Abuse committee report, Substance Abuse in Remote Communities: Overcoming the Confusion and Disconnection. As a member of this committee, I was delighted to see the final, very polished report after 18 months.
As has been highlighted by previous speakers, members of the committee travelled widely. We have spoken to a great many people. At a personal level, I visited places that I have never visited before and it certainly opened my eyes. I have been around parts of the Territory and witnessed different forms of substance abuse, but I have seen new areas and was horrified but also exhilarated by some of the efforts that are going on in different parts of the Territory.
Mrs BRAHAM: A point of order, Madam Speaker! It is very discourteous. There is a member on his feet trying to speak and yet there are people speaking in different areas of the Chamber, and I cannot hear what he says. We should at least get back to order and listen to the member.
Madam SPEAKER: Honourable members, if you could go about your business very quietly. We will wait for the cameras to be removed from the Chamber.
Mr KNIGHT: Thank you, member for Braitling. As I was saying, at a personal level, one of the highlights was visiting the communities just north of Alice Springs. It was a stark contrast, talking to the people on the western side of the highway, then the communities on the eastern side. It was intriguing to see why some communities were able to tackle the problems of substance abuse and other communities were struggling with the problem. There seemed to be an X factor. I would like to bottle whatever it is they have and distribute it in many other communities. It was a sign of hope. Lessons can be learnt from those communities and be transposed to others.
The Groote Eylandt visit inspired hope. The member for Katherine and I both live in Katherine and we were thinking the same things as we returned about what we could do for Katherine. We agreed that it could be a political baseball bat for hitting each other over the head with if one of us put it up because it was a fairly novel way to go about things. It certainly had some political and electoral downsides so we agreed to work on it together and not attack one another about it, to seek no political advantage from it, because we both love the town of Katherine. We see the problems of not just the people who witness drunken behaviour, but of the people who are inebriated in the main street and the kids running around who have empty bellies on Sunday night.
We had a range of meetings which were very constructive. It was very hard to convince the Katherine people of some change and it is still a work in progress. I am delighted that the Minister for Alcohol Policy and Racing, Gaming and Licensing has bitten the bullet and introduced the ID-eye system for Katherine. It will have huge ramifications for the town; it will have huge benefits for people on all sides of that community. It is a small price to pay for great rewards.
The field work done by the committee was very constructive and made up much of the content of the report. One thing that comes out in the recommendations is coordinating approaches. There is a great deal of confusion, overlap and gaps within existing structures. I have worked in the NT government system, the Commonwealth system and the community sector. It is very difficult working those areas. I also worked on a COAG trial which was supposed to address those things and that did not have a great deal of success either. There is much more work to be done.
The community-based approach is the way to go, focusing on individual communities rather than focusing on agency-across-the-Territory approach, where you identify the gaps and overlaps, and you try to fill them. People get more flexible with their funding. If there are gaps, they should try to stretch the criteria, fill in those gaps within their funding programs, and people need to leave politics at the door and focus on what can be turned out for the communities.
There are obligations on both sides, at government and community level, to address this problem. Communities are ready for it. I know people are absolutely fed up with the substance abuse in the communities. One thing that needs to be remembered is that grog, petrol, cannabis, whatever you like, is basically a form of self-medication. If we stop the grog and cannabis, people will go on to something else. The lives have to be improved. We have to listen to Gandhi: blame the sin, not the sinner. We too often blame the drunk or drug addicts, but we do not look at why they are in that situation. There is much more work required by all governments to do something about the root causes of substance abuse and at the same time working on reducing the current consumption of those products.
Some of the other recommendations in this report are about education campaigns and they are very valuable. The more people know about what different forms of substances do to you, whether it is alcohol, petrol or cannabis, you are more able to choose whether this thing is going to be beneficial to you.
Public education campaigns need to build on a foundation of having a level of education. One of the recommendations in the report is to seriously look at education levels of people who live in communities and urban centres because countless reports and studies highlight the fact that if you have a poor level of education, if you do not complete a certain stage of schooling, you make poor life choices. You slip into a situation where your life is not worth much, and you look at self-medication. Education is the key to this. It provides foundations where you can make better choices and you can make a different way of life for yourself and family.
Alcohol management plans are mentioned within the recommendations. They are very valuable. Perhaps we missed a bit of an opportunity with the Katherine one. It could have gone further. I am reassured by the minister’s approach to strengthen that alcohol management plan, and it will have results. They are the key, and it has been highlighted today in a media report on a study by the National Drug Research Institute which finds that alcohol restrictions work. The ones that work really well are the ones where the communities have been involved. They come with the sanctions or the measures because they take ownership of it. This is something that the Commonwealth government has completely forgotten in this intervention. They think they can put in 60 ADF officers, open police stations and introduce laws and it will all work. There is no use having a couple of ADF officers sitting at some community doing 10 shifts a week out of a possible 21, and so things go on and people do not report them.
If you have the community on side, you do not end up with two sets of eyes, you end up with 200 sets of eyes. Communities, once you get them on board, are your greatest asset and they will dob in everyone. They will dob in brothers and sisters because they know what is good for them. They know what alcohol does. They know what it does to members of the family, so you have to make sure that any initiative includes the community because you will save yourself a lot of money and you will certainly get the outcomes far and away from what has been achieved thus far with the Commonwealth intervention.
I am supportive of Recommendation 7 about community audits and building a framework around that. We really need to understand what is going on each community. That is what I mean by a community-based approach or ‘place management’ as it is sometimes called, whereby agencies focus on individual communities which come together, work around those communities and look at the key things. Much of the time we look at individual parts of a community, but the most important thing in communities is people. We should look at the different groups of people: the children, the women, the men. We need to see how their life is from when they get up in the morning, the house they sleep in, what is in the fridge, where they go to school, what they do after school, all those things. We need to focus very sharply on those communities and then we can look at the problems of substance abuse and come back to why people are taking them. There is a degree of boredom, but there is also the element of their lives having not a great deal of meaning. We have to put meaning back into their lives.
Other areas of the report highlight removal of CDEP. Having been involved in a number of communities around Tennant Creek, with Julalikari Buramana when CDEP was not there, and then coming to Timber Creek with the Ngaliwurru-Wuli Association where CDEP was in place, people had a work ethic. They were involved in their community; they got up each morning and they were part of something. The removal of CDEP has created deep concerns, as has been said in this House before. I fear that, again, we are getting away from that sense of purpose, which is when drift into self-medication of whatever it may be that is available to them. I hope we do not lose CDEP. I hope there is a positive result in the federal election and we keep CDEP.
Mr Conlan: A Liberal win. Is that what you mean?
Mr KNIGHT: The member for Greatorex is perhaps not up to date. The CLP or Liberal Party, whatever they like to call themselves nowadays, is going to remove CDEP. That is their policy. They want to axe work for the dole and replace it with a work for the dole scheme. Yes, that is very positive, except the first work for the dole scheme is a community development program as well. That scheme develops a community, which is novel. A Rudd Labor federal government would reinstate and enhance CDEP, and that is what needs to happen. It needs to be improved and given a new focus. It has been around for 12 years and it needs more focus.
Other recommendations in the report were about housing. People must have adequate housing to live a normal life, to have somewhere to sleep, to have a home. There needs to be much more work done on remote housing and making it sustainable. At the moment, it is not sustainable. Everything is working against its sustainability. I am encouraged by the Housing minister, who has done a lot of work on this. He is someone who knows about indigenous housing and is working towards it.
The report deals with many aspects. In respect of education, I was delighted with the Closing the Gap initiative. This government committed $9.5m to preschool and early education, which was directly related to getting kids into school earlier by putting on more teachers. There were 26 additional teachers allocated for a total of $12m. There was a range of different buckets of money which went into education. That was serious recognition that more needed to be done in the bush, and it goes to what I said earlier about education being the core of it.
In respect of alcohol and other drugs, we need more scrutiny of liquor outlets. In Closing the Gap, eight additional Alcohol Compliance Inspectors were put on. There was $3.7m allocated to the licensing identification system, which I mentioned earlier, for introduction in Katherine, and I am lobbying strongly for the minister to introduce it across sections of my electorate in the Timber Creek area, and the Daly and Port Keats areas, where it would be valuable. Those communities want it and I hope we get that happening. There is also an extra $2.5m in regional alcohol management strategies.
It is good to see that money has gone into those areas which reflect the recommendations of the Little Children are Sacred report, and major changes to the Liquor Act providing for dry areas, which commenced in Alice Springs in August.
I thank my colleagues. This is a good body of work. We all got a great deal out of it. All of us have visited communities which we had not visited before, and that is always a good thing. It gives you a perspective on issues around the place, and a degree of hope. We can always learn something new.
I thank the committee staff who assisted with the report; they were as inspired and as educated as we were by the places we visited. I thank Pat Hancock, Brian Lloyd and Kellie Trout for their work. The committee could not operate without them.
I congratulate the Chair and other committee members for the production of this report. I hope it is taken on board by government. Much work has already been done and money allocated within the Closing the Gap strategy. This is a battle that we have to fight every single day.
I make the point that we need to fight the root cause. We can chase after bushfires every single day and we will never get there. An analogy is that you have someone that has an infection. We can put a bandaid on that infection for as long as we like, but it will keep costing us money. We have to apply some antibiotics to the victim of these problems to really cure it from the inside. That is our challenge as parliamentarians and I am totally committed to it. Madam Speaker, I commend the report to the House.
Mrs BRAHAM (Braitling): Madam Speaker, Confronting the Confusion and Disconnection is a strong and very challenging report. The title says it all. There is confusion in communities and there is a lot of disconnection with families and community groups. This report is about confronting it. I hope government takes notice of this report because it is probably one of the strongest I have read. It is honest, up-front, provides all the evidence to back what it says, and it clearly illustrates the distress occurring in some communities.
I congratulate the Chair on her tabling statement this morning. It was very sincere. I know she has agonised for quite a while about bringing this into the House, and whether it will be accepted by government because it is, in some cases, quite critical of government. Anything that is critical of government leads to uncertainty about whether it will be dismissed and nothing will result from it. For instance, I am alarmed that today, in the face of such a strong report from a committee, the Minister for Alcohol Policy will be delivering a statement. It is almost as though it is trying to take the limelight away from the report, water down some of the recommendations and distract attention from the recommendations. I will be speaking on the statement when we get to it.
Committee work is hard work. I do not always feel comfortable working on committees, particularly when we go out to hear evidence. When you go into communities, people come to you with their hearts on their sleeves and tell it as it is. They tell you their expectations, their dilemmas, their problems and what they want. You sit there knowing darn well you cannot promise them anything. No matter how many reports we write and how many recommendations we make, we cannot promise them that anything will happen. It is entirely up to government to do that.
I hope the government will take on board some of these recommendations and respond to them because the people we spoke to were clearly expecting us to deliver. They were sitting there, telling it as they felt, opening up their hearts and then asking: ‘What can you do for us? We have told this story so many times to so many committees and nothing has been done.’ That is the sad part for the people who have to suffer every day and deal with these problems. They have said it to Commonwealth committees, to our committees, to whomever, but they do not feel as though their words are being listened to. They do not feel they are ever achieving what they want. I say to government: even if you feel uncomfortable with some of the recommendations in this report, take them seriously. It is an honest report and it deserves a positive response from government.
There are some strong recommendations and some of them stick out more clearly than others. I will not go through a lot of the scenarios you have heard from other speakers, but there seems to me to be a real need for immediate cooperation between government agencies and the non-government sector and all these programs out there. It is not as though there is not anything happening out there. There is, but it is often little people doing little things on their own. Those little people need the support of the big people, the government.
Too often, we see government agencies converging on communities. As one of them said, ‘We had five different agencies yesterday.’ The five different agencies did not know each other was going. They all talked to different people on the communities, roared out and roared back into town. There does not seem to be the cooperation needed to bring it all together. As much goodwill as there is in government agencies and non-government organisations, it is not going to work unless we have a coordinated approach, and that is what I ask government to do. Make sure a policy applies across government agencies and that they work together. It is too easy to do your own thing in your own agency without knowing what goes on elsewhere. That is one of the big recommendations of this report. There really is that need.
One of the more important recommendations is reform of the funding process. What is needed is not the short-term grants process that we have at the moment. We have some very good programs for working with children and young people, but they do not know from year to year whether they will be funded. We have seen that over and over again, not just in substance abuse but in many other areas. What they were saying clearly to us is that they could better plan and consolidate if they had some sort of guaranteed funding.
It takes hours for some of these organisations to write an application, and for what? I say to government: please look at the funding process. Perhaps you could make it for the term of government, which is four years, rather than an annual application. Perhaps you could give them some sort of security to employ that extra person, so they can take on an extra program to make it work. It is not only in this report; you will find comments about the process of securing funding being so difficult.
I do not know how many times I write support letters for people who are applying for grants from all sorts of organisations so that a program can be continued. It seems to me that we need security of funding, particularly for people in remote communities who are doing such good work. So government, please take note of that. It really needs to be done.
Government is doing some good things. We recognise that there are some very good things. The last Substance Abuse committee resulted in the Volatile Substance Abuse Prevention Act and some of those programs are working. In Alice Springs I have seen very little evidence of petrol sniffing over the last six months, whereas before you could see it up in Billy Goat Hill, out in the camps and in different pockets of the town. Government has addressed petrol sniffing in a positive way and the rehab centres that have been established are working and the introduction of Opal is working.
There are good things happening, but, as we often hear the Chief Minister say, there is more to be done. On the issue of petrol sniffing, I say this to the minister for Education: we really need to ensure there is an ongoing education process in our schools. We know the disadvantages of sniffing petrol, but kids in communities see it as part of every day life. It becomes the norm for them and they do not understand it is not normal, but dangerous. Schools have a very strong part to play in making sure young children coming through the system know the dangers of petrol sniffing or any sort of substance abuse. It can be put into the curriculum in health and is something we need to consider seriously. We should continue the support of police resources. We all know police do a great job. They need support in other areas because no matter how many police you have, we always seem to have problems.
One of the strong recommendations to come out of this was also in the government’s Alcohol Framework of July 2004. There needs to be identifiable revenue raised from specific resources and dedicated to harm reduction and preventative measures. We had, once, the levy associated with the Living with Alcohol program. We know we cannot impose that levy now, but this report strongly recommends that the Northern Territory government should take the lead in working with the states to seek Commonwealth agreement to identify where this revenue could come from and ensure it goes into programs for harm reduction. That is a very good recommendation. I say to government: your minister should start talking to the states and see how you can identify this revenue. We cannot call it a tax or a levy, but start speaking to the Commonwealth to see if we can find a way to get around the problem we are facing at the moment from the High Court decision so that we can have funding specific to these programs. If we have that, as we did in the past, we would not have the problem we have now.
Another recommendation flows from the Alcohol Framework. The report deals with the Office of Alcohol Policy and the matter of coordination. The report is critical that the office was basically dissolved. The framework said you should have an Office of Alcohol Policy directly responsible to the Chief Minister because they felt if that were so, the Chief Minister’s could at least heighten awareness. It would give it importance and raise its status. Unfortunately, that has not happened. It has gone to the Minister for Health, who may correct me later, or the Minister for Alcohol Policy. We need to make sure we do not have these programs split across government. We need one department leading the charge, making sure we get through the coordination and policy that we really need.
We looked at some very good programs and services. I did not go on the Top End visits, but in the southern end of the Territory, as the member for Daly said, the difference in the east and west communities is quite obvious in Central Australia. Even though some of the communities on the east side have their act so much more together, there are still things that can be done. I remember the Harts Range community said: ‘This is our basketball court. The lights go out at 8.30 pm. The whistle is blown and all the kids know they should go home to bed’. Wouldn’t it be nice if we had some decent sporting facilities?
What is obvious is that if you have good recreational activities not just for kids but all the community, it gives people something worthwhile to do and raises their self-esteem, rather than have them wander around the community not sure what to do or wandering into town getting into trouble. I do not think we put enough emphasis on recreation. I do not think we realise the importance of making sure people are busy and occupied. If they are unemployed, if they are not going to school, as sure as eggs they are going to get into mischief. We had wonderful examples of where there are good recreational programs and Docker River is one. They have a male and a female Recreation Officer, so that culturally, they relate to each other in a far better way. They do amazing things with their young people and adults. For a long time, we have only funded one recreational officer on communities, but what commonsense it is to have two, one of each gender. It is simple, but it requires additional funding.
We should put more emphasis on recreation. If it is properly resourced, it can bring results because it provides alternatives to getting drunk or getting on the drugs. I say to the government: that is one of the most important recommendations. It should be about preventing rather than fixing. I know we talk about rehabilitation programs, but let us start saying to each other, how can we prevent this happening? We can prevent it by making sure life is better on communities.
There are very good programs. For example, we went to Barry Abbott’s camp. He told us about the things he does with his young people. There is success story after success story from his program. We should not have to reinvent the wheel on these programs. We have problems at the moment in Alice Springs with some of our juveniles. Why don’t we give them guaranteed funding so that they can expand and take on some of these other problems? They have done it for so many years, they know how to make it work and they are producing good results. Let us acknowledge them. We are so busy looking at other things that we do not acknowledge the successful programs and use them even more than they are used at present. The goodwill and experience are there. Let us utilise them so we have better value for money and ensure we have programs that we know will succeed.
Again, it comes back to giving them long-term funding rather than short-term, and give them opportunities to train their people, make sure they have accommodation and the right infrastructure for people. All these things kept cropping up over and over again. We need to ensure that existing programs have the right support.
The member for Daly talked about housing, which crops up all the time. I hope that with the federal intervention, we will see a lot more housing on communities. Most of all, we need to target indigenous trained people, give them decent accommodation so that they can maintain a lifestyle to continue their jobs. That is one of the important things the report says.
The report comments on other areas, such as health, employment, education and recreation. I do not intend to go through all the different recommendations, but I hope every member of this parliament reads them. This is certainly a report worth reading.
How can we make life better on communities? Why do we find that we have people turning to substance abuse? Do we ask ourselves that enough? Why are they doing it? How can we prevent them doing it? Do we always have to say this is what we are going to do to fix the problem once it is over, or to help the person? You mentioned that victims are caught up in this cycle and it is very hard to break it. We need new vision and not just: ‘Okay, we will put in another rehabilitation program’. We need to ask: how can we prevent it from happening? That is the big challenge for this government. It is a challenge for all governments to ensure that we can make life better so that people do not feel they have to rely on drugs and alcohol to get through their day. How sad is it that you have to rely on them because your life is so empty.
I do not intend to talk much further about this report, which is very good. I will talk on the alcohol statement later, rather than dwell on it now.
I was impressed by the level of debate in the committee. Everyone did not always agree but, interestingly enough at the end of the day, we were prepared to accept a report that is controversial. I am sure that government members sometimes might have felt they were sticking their necks out a little, but that is what is good about having a committee working together. There was no dissenting member on the report, which is to the credit of all members who worked so hard on it. I thank the Chair because I know she is passionate about it, and I thank other members of the committee.
I want to pay tribute to the Secretariat staff who have gone over the report again and again. Whenever I have phoned and said: ‘I do not like this, can you change it?’, they have taken on all the innuendos and the corrections that we have worked through together. It is a report that has been compiled by everyone, and I commend it to members.
Ms SACILOTTO (Port Darwin): Mr Deputy Speaker, we have heard from my colleague, the Chair of select committee, about the challenges we face on substance abuse on remote communities and the good things we have: strong people and good programs. They show us the way and how to work to improve things as they stand. I want to add to that picture by highlighting further the good things we found when we talked to people in communities.
As our Chair, the member for Macdonnell, pointed out, we cannot let ourselves be stumped by thinking of difficulties alone. It is no exaggeration to say that the people we met and the stories they told are little short of inspirational. Their strength and clarity of vision, their awareness of what to do and how to do it, are an example. They do good things, get results, and change people’s lives. There is a lot of just being there, following through, staying in contact, reducing harm. Their level of compassion and concern is remarkable. On a daily basis, they weigh up resources, risks, opportunities and cultural factors. Somehow, they keep it all going, all in balance, and that is no mean feat. On our two trips, we heard about many communities where this was happening.
In Docker River, the community had taken a bad situation and turned it around, putting in programs and getting healthy; leadership programs where youth help their peers and take on responsibility are a part of this, which is an important investment in the future. We also saw this at Mt Theo, one of the shining lights of community-based responses to substance abuse. We saw a similar approach emphasising personal responsibility, skills and time on country when we spoke to Barry Abbott at Harts Range.
At the Larapinta Learning Centre, we heard about how people faced difficult conditions and responded by developing new ways to involve the community in solutions with a dramatically positive effect. In Alice Springs, we heard about DASA’s work and huge contribution to keeping people safe and guiding them towards getting off the grog, and the valuable work of CAYLUS in providing strategic and coordinating capacity.
In the Top End, too, we heard positive stories about Groote Eylandt communities choosing together to have less to drink so they can keep safe and spend more time on more productive things. It was great to see local people, as a result, getting more work at the mine. This highlighted the benefits of employment and of companies being ready to come to the table and work with communities. As a committee, we all felt this underscores the importance of employment in countering substance abuse. These are just a few highlights from what I heard in communities. Everywhere we went, we heard from people committed to making things better.
Council and police at Alyangula made a major contribution to reducing alcohol on the island. At Angurugu, we saw good practice in dealing with substance abuse clients. At Umbakumba, there were reductions in alcohol and good school attendance. At Bickerton and Groote Eylandt, there were combined work and rehab programs to get people on their feet. On the Gove Peninsula, there were community initiatives to counter the effects of alcohol. It gives quite a different perspective to what is portrayed in the media. At the time we visited Wadeye, for example, there was intense media interest about violence there, but being in the community, you could be struck by how many people there were who were doing good things to support the community. Black and white people from Makura Wunthay Alcohol Awareness, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School and the health clinic made a big impression on us. They showed us what is at stake and the strength and resolve they bring to their work. We came away with a mix of feelings, concerned and encouraged.
It was obvious that Opal has really stopped petrol sniffing in its tracks. The terrible stories we heard about rampant sniffing are not likely to be repeated as long as we keep a lid on the black market supply, but ganja and alcohol are really big problems. This takes us back to the importance of the positive side of the ledger, the good ways to tackle these things. This is not rocket science. Time and again the committee has been told that the basic combination of the demand and supply reduction and rehabilitation together with giving local people a genuine stake in their own affairs and cultural sensitivity and insight is something that works. As a committee, we heard this many times.
We met all sorts of people who are working in this positive direction from people working in established programs through to family elders who on some occasions did not have much more than an idea and a hope that they could get their kin to an outstation so that they could straighten out. Often, there is a lot of making do, even from the established programs which started, after all, on nothing more that the goodwill of one or two people and grew from there. Even within those constraints, these people keep working, seeing the opportunity, looking out for others, and it gets to a point in many communities where there is enough of this to make things turn over. Then substance abuse stops being the norm and starts being something unusual, something a little uncool, something youth do not wanted to be associated with. That is the goal.
Mr Deputy Speaker, every life you take out of the hands of substance abuse is another one on the side of more positive behaviour. Everyone counts. It is interesting to think about the fundamentals of how you go about guiding people toward behaviour that does less harm and gets them doing positive things. The basic principles are reward the good, limit the bad, and let people experience the consequences of both. This is what people at Mt Theo told us about their carrot and stick approach where young people got to go to the local disco or, if they dip into substances, they go to the outstation for some time out. The fact that there is something positive to offer as an incentive, that these kids are really disappointed when they cannot get to the disco, is really important in giving them a reference point.
You can think of this as a kind of parable of the inquiry. Another way to say the same thing is that, as the committee was told, if you can put into a community supply reduction, rehabilitation and a decent recreation program, it really does result in a substantial reduction in substance abuse. It becomes a kind of structure that makes harm less likely and good things more likely.
It is only natural that this should be the case. We all respond to positive and negative cues in behaviour, and if we are lucky, black or white, we grow up in an environment where we have these signals and get the feel of what it is like to do the right or the wrong thing. That is how people develop and become good contributors to society. At times we fall into the error of thinking that these things apply more to remote communities than they do elsewhere. That is a mistake. At root, the basic principles are the same. It relies on a structure being around a person, sending the right signals. It does not just apply to remote communities, but to all communities.
We have a fantastic base of people who know what to do, how to do it and who are committed to making it happen. We also know that it needs to happen. Things cannot go on the way they have for the last 40 years. The challenge for us is we can add to what they are doing, enable them and really let them get on with it. We can and must if we are going to keep the Territory viable, developing and making the most of our people into the future.
The recommendations of the committee are solid and very strong. I am proud to have been a member of this committee, which has worked in a truly bipartisan manner. Every one of us has a genuine concern for the people we are talking to and are involved with, and we want to see things change. That is why we ask, as a committee, that government take note of our recommendations and seriously consider putting them into action.
I commend the committee members: the members for Katherine, Blain, Braitling, Daly and especially the member for Macdonnell, our Chair. It has been an interesting committee and we are an interesting mix. The member for Macdonnell has certainly opened my eyes to life on communities and the troubles and challenges that people face on a daily and nightly basis, and for that I thank the member for Macdonnell because it is something that we all need to know and understanding that life is not as we have in our cocoon. We need to experience other people’s lives, even if it is momentary.
I thank the committee secretariat, Ms Pat Hancock, Dr Brian Lloyd, Kellie Trout and Kim Cowcher. The member for Daly said that they are a great part of the success of this committee. I say they are more than that; they are the backbone of the committee and without those people, it would all fall down.
Debate adjourned.
ANSWER TO QUESTION
Mining – Rating of Mineral Leases
Mining – Rating of Mineral Leases
Mr McADAM (Local Government): Mr Deputy Speaker, earlier in Question Time the Mines and Energy Minister was asked about the manner in which mining interests would be dealt with under the new local government arrangements.
I picked up the tail end of that question, and would like to take the opportunity to correct the record and more fully inform the Assembly of details of the new local government arrangements which apply to mining interests.
I can confirm mining exploration licences will be exempt from rates. Existing mineral leases will be rated and, specific to the question from the member for Katherine to the Minister for Mines and Energy, in respect of ERA and Alcan at Nhulunbuy, it is intended that guidelines will be established in relation to rating mineral leases, including the leases held by ERA for the Ranger Mine and the Alcan Mine at Nhulunbuy.
TABLED PAPER
Treasurer’s Annual Financial Report 2006-07
Treasurer’s Annual Financial Report 2006-07
Mr STIRLING (Treasurer): Mr Deputy Speaker, in accordance with section 9 of the Financial Management Act, I am pleased to table the 2006-07 Treasurer’s Annual Financial Statement.
The statement forms part of the 2006-07 Treasurer’s Annual Financial Report and presents the Territory’s fiscal performance for that year. The report satisfies the requirements of the final fiscal results report as set out in the Fiscal Integrity and Transparency Act.
In addition, the unaudited section provides a summary of the financial performance of agencies and Government Business Divisions for 2006-07. The highlights of the 2006-07 Treasurer’s Annual Financial Report are:
all key fiscal aggregates improved on those estimated in both May 2006 and May 2007;
when measured as a percentage to revenue for the non-financial public sector, both nett debt at 39% and nett debt plus employee liabilities at 106% are the lowest levels since 2001-02; and
Mr Deputy Speaker, I turn in more detail to the outcomes of the 2006-07 financial year. The 2006-07 outcome of a $33m cash surplus is $89m higher than budgeted in May 2006, and $44m higher than the revised estimate published in the May 2007 Budget. This is now the fifth year in succession that a cash surplus has been recorded and it continues to ease the debt burden inherited by this government.
The improved cash position since budget time was a result of a $267m increase in operating receipts being only partially offset by increased spending of $178m. The $267m increase in operating receipts was predominantly due to:
$48m additional GST revenue, following the increase in the Territory’s population estimate arising from the 2006 Census - thank you, ABS - together with a small increase in the national GST pool available for distribution;
This resulted in additional receipts of $41m, largely matched by additional payments. It is worth noting that the 2005-06 comparative numbers in this report have been restated to reflect Territory Housing’s sector change for comparability purposes.
Total operational and net capital spending payments were $178m higher due to:
new and expanded initiatives across government of $40m;
I turn to the 2006-07 accrual outcomes. The operating surplus of $143m and fiscal balance of $62m are both significant improvements on that budgeted. The fiscal balance presents a more complete picture of government spending as, like the cash income, it incorporates the effects of both capital and operational transactions. Accordingly, all governments strive for a significant positive operating result as this provides the capacity for investment in capital infrastructure in the general government sector without the need for additional borrowing.
The fiscal balance surplus of $62m was a $167m improvement on the May 2006 Budget and $133m improvement on the May 2007 revised estimate. This was predominantly a result of the improved operating result and the change in timing of capital spending. Both the improved nett operating balance and fiscal balance outcomes suggest that the government’s fiscal target of a sustainable balance by 2012-13 remain achievable. This is despite record levels of capital investment in 2006-07 and projected for 2007-08.
Capital investment plays a central role in the government’s budget strategy as it is essential for the delivery of government services and contributes to the economic development of the Territory. In 2006-07 capital spending, including the Power and Water Corporation capital grants, was a record $567m, an increase of $75m from 2005-06. This increased expenditure predominantly relates to improved education and housing infrastructure, together with the planned increase spending in relation to the Darwin waterfront. This record level of investment is set to continue in 2007-08.
While general government is the appropriate sector to focus on for the operating and cash flow statements, the non-financial public sector is the focus for analysis of the balance sheet; that is, the Territory’s assets and liabilities.
I now turn to the balance sheet outcomes for the non-financial public sector. Nett debt of $1413m in 2006-07 has reduced by $181m since 2005-06. It is now at its lowest level since the high point $1743m in 2001-02. When measured as a percentage to revenue, the 2006 outcome of 39% represents a 9% reduction on the 48% recorded in 2005-06, and a 28% reduction on 2001-02 levels. This improvement directly results from this government’s deficit and debt reduction strategy that was embarked on following our election in 2001. This has culminated in five successive cash surpluses and record low levels of nett debt.
Unlike nett debt, nett debt plus employee liabilities is affected by the upward movement of the Territory’s superannuation liability that has occurred over the past two years, increasing the pressure on the Territory’s overall liabilities. Accordingly, in the May 2007 Budget, this government announced that it would contribute additional amounts towards the Territory’s ongoing superannuation liabilities to reduce this burden on future budgets. As indicated earlier, this government has been able to contribute $150m in 2006-07 for this purpose. The 2006-07 nett debt plus employee liabilities was $3908m, an increase on the 2005-06 outcome of $155m, predominantly as a result of the increase in the Commonwealth’s superannuation scheme as reported in the May 2007 Budget. However, when measured as a percentage of total revenue, the 2006-07 outcome of 106% represents a significant reduction on both the 112% recorded in 2005-06 and the 134% recorded at 30 June 2002. These improvements will flow through to the forward estimates to be reported in the 2007-08 Mid-Year Report. It also demonstrates that this government’s target of nett debt and employee liabilities to revenue to reduce over time has been achieved. This is, again, a testament to the fiscal responsibility of this government.
The Auditor-General has issued his usual two-part audit opinion on the financial statements with the technical qualification still existing in relation to compliance with Australian Accounting Standards, as has been the case since 1999. The Territory continues to comply with the Uniform Presentation Framework as required of all jurisdictions rather than the Australian Accounting Standards. Work is now significantly advanced nationally to merge Uniform Presentation Framework and Australian Accounting Standards with the likelihood that the new merged formats will be applied from 2008-09. Until then, that technical qualification will remain.
Honourable members may recall that in 2005-06, the Auditor-General also issued an audit qualification on the carrying value of utility assets held by the Power and Water Corporation that flowed through to the Treasurer’s Annual Financial Report. I am pleased to report that for 2006-07, the issue has been resolved following a write down in water and sewage assets of $146m by the Power and Water Corporation. Accordingly, although a technical flow-through qualification from 2005-06 still exists in the books of the Power and Water Corporation, in relation to comparative numbers, this flow-through qualification will be removed completely.
In conclusion, 2006-07 represents an extremely positive outcome. The Territory has continued its trend towards achieving the medium-term fiscal objectives and targets as set out in the fiscal strategy. The cash outcome of a $33m surplus in 2006-07 is the fifth year in succession a surplus has been recorded, largely accounting for the significant improvement in nett debt and nett debt plus employee liabilities. This is despite record levels of investment in the Territory’s infrastructure base and an increase in valuation of the Territory’s superannuation liabilities as reported in May 2007. Both the accrual operating result and fiscal balance results are in surplus representing significant improvements on both the May 2006 and May 2007 estimates.
The 2006-07 outcome shows the government is committed to managing the Territory’s finances responsibly while maintaining an appropriate balance between community and economic needs and maintaining a sound fiscal position.
Mr Deputy Speaker, I table the 2006-07 Treasurer’s Annual Financial Report and commend it to the House. I move that the Assembly take note of the report and that leave be granted to continue my remarks at a later hour.
Leave granted.
Debate adjourned.
MINISTERIAL STATEMENT
Territory Alcohol Reform
Territory Alcohol Reform
Dr BURNS (Alcohol Policy): Mr Deputy Speaker, today I talk about the progress of the government’s alcohol reforms. This is my first statement to the House since becoming Alcohol Policy Minister on 7 August. The creation of this new portfolio serves to highlight the Martin Labor government’s focus on this most important area of public policy.
Most of us enjoy a drink with family and friends, and, used sensibly, there is no doubt that alcohol is an important part of our lives, the Territory’s lifestyle and our economy. However, we have to be honest and acknowledge the Territory has historically had a bad, and at times tragic, record in relation to harmful levels of alcohol consumption. This was most recently reaffirmed in the Little Children are Sacred report. Among other things the report noted:
- … that alcohol and other drugs are having a massive negative impact on the social fabric of Aboriginal communities and contribute greatly to family and cultural breakdown. This ultimately results in an environment where children are unsafe.
The report further noted:
The consequences of alcohol abuse for Aboriginal Territorians are extraordinarily damaging. A recent report into alcohol-related Aboriginal deaths found that alcohol causes the death of an Aboriginal Australian every 38 hours. A quarter of these deaths occur in the Northern Territory. Central Australia has the worst rate of alcohol attributable mortality in the country, with 14.6 deaths per 10 000 Aboriginal people between 2000 and 2004.
The most damaging aspect of alcohol is not the illness and death it causes … but the fact that it affects significant numbers of innocent people, including children.
As part of our way forward to bridging the gap between Aboriginal Territorians and the rest of the Territory, we will spend an extra $10.1m on alcohol and drug initiatives to give our alcohol management efforts more muscle. We also have to be honest and acknowledge that it is not just Aboriginal Territorians who suffer from the effects of harmfully high levels of alcohol consumption. The excessive consumption of alcohol is affecting men, women and children right across the Territory regardless of ethnicity and income levels. Our responses to alcohol-related problems must acknowledge the universality of the problem confronting the Northern Territory.
I want to stress, though, that I am not suggesting we in the Territory should become a bunch of wowsers. We should continue to enjoy the many positive aspects of alcohol, but we have to do more to develop strategies to reduce the number of Territorians who are drinking at unsafe levels.
Let us look at some of the facts. The Northern Territory continues to have the highest per capita level of alcohol consumption in the country, and we suffer unacceptably high levels of related harm, antisocial behaviour, community disruption and personal misery as a result. Pure alcohol consumption in the Territory was 17.3 litres per adult in 2005-06 compared with the national average of 10 litres per adult. The Katherine region has the highest per capita consumption in the Territory at more than 20 litres of pure alcohol for every adult. The Top End average at 17.3 litres per adult is the same as the Territory average. Average alcohol consumption in Central Australia is 16.2 litres per adult and in the Barkly region, the average is 14.7 litres.
In short, even at best, the lowest regional alcohol consumption figures are well above the national average. The cost in both human and financial terms of this level of drinking demands that we address this situation as a matter of the highest priority. Since the release of the Alcohol Framework in late 2004, the Martin government has progressively implemented a range of initiatives and developed further innovative measures to reduce alcohol related harm across the Territory.
I would like to highlight some of these developments. In addition to contributing in the development and coordination of policies and programs in the area of alcohol, my department is also responsible for the development of individual alcohol management plans across the Territory. This broad-based engagement assists the targeting and efficient use of resources, maximises opportunities for action and capitalises on a broad range of expertise in formulating strategies. This cooperation is the base on which alcohol management plans are being developed. These plans are the key to the government’s approach of looking for local solutions to local problems.
This flexible approach acknowledges that the Territory is made up of distinct regions with unique demographic and social circumstances and as such, alcohol-related problems will differ across communities. This government recognises that while the Territory population might be small, it is a diverse jurisdiction. That means that we cannot succeed in efforts to attack our culture of alcohol with a one-size-fits-all approach. There are two keys to success. Plans to address alcohol problems must be tailored specifically for the region or town in which they will apply and these solutions must be arrived at by way of extensive community consultation.
Our experience with Groote Eylandt exemplifies exactly that. There has been a dramatic reduction in alcohol-related problems following the introduction of a permit system that allows takeaway sales to be monitored and managed. The Groote Eylandt system was introduced following negotiation with local communities. A recent evaluation by the Menzies School of Health Research found the system on Groote Eylandt had resulted in 75% fewer cases of public drunkenness; a decline in apprehensions without arrest from 90 to 11; 52% less property crime; a 60% reduction in incidents of disturbance; a 67% drop in the number of police call-outs for aggravated assault; and absenteeism for indigenous employees at the GEMCO mine dropped from 7.8% to 2.4%. Admittedly, Groote Eylandt is a small island community with limited access to takeaway alcohol. Even so, these results are impressive and exemplify the kind of gains that can be made through community and government partnerships.
Alice Springs was the first place to have an Alcohol Management Plan. While a formal evaluation will commence shortly, unofficial reports indicate success in terms of a variety of indicators. Available data indicates there has been a 10% decrease in takeaway alcohol sales in Alice Springs. It also shows a 14% decline in crimes against people; a 40% decrease in admissions to the sobering-up shelter; 21% fewer admissions to treatment services for alcohol problems; and an overall reduction in the number of admissions to Alice Springs Hospital for alcohol-related conditions.
These results are a credit to the comprehensive and cooperative approach taken by a range of government, non-government, private and community stakeholders involved with the plan. Whilst these are impressive results we recognise we still have much more work to do in Alice Springs to ensure significant and sustainable results.
Other alcohol management plans are in various stages of development. A plan was adopted for Katherine in July 2007 and plans are now being finalised for Tennant Creek and Palmerston. Developmental work is occurring in West Arnhem and Timber Creek, which should see plans in place by the end of the year.
As other communities identify issues, further plans may be developed in the future and this government is committed to provide support for those plans so that they are effective and achievable.
Alcohol management plans are dynamic and evolving, so they continue to remain relevant to changing circumstances. In this context, it is worth noting that Alice Springs has recently become the first urban centre in the Territory to take advantage of legislation which prohibits drinking in all public places. This is an added strategy which was not available when the plan was first adopted. Anecdotal reports indicate that this new strategy has been highly successful in removing many alcohol problems from the streets of Alice Springs. In light of this experience, it is probably not surprising that other councils are also seeking declarations as dry areas. Applications are currently being considered for Katherine and Gove Peninsula, and applications have been made by Mataranka and for some suburbs around Darwin. This government has committed a further $2.5m over the next five years in order to continue to roll out alcohol management plans.
Other innovative legislation introduced by this government has allowed private residences to be declared dry. To date, there have been 278 applications to have alcohol banned from households, with 214 declarations actually in force. This measure ensures people can have respite by making their homes free of alcohol.
This government has also legislated for the operation of Alcohol Courts as a means of being able to divert offenders to treatment services. These courts and associated assessment, referral and counselling services are now available to Alice Springs and Darwin. Some 80 referrals have been made to these courts, with two-thirds of those referred entering treatment. This option gives offenders an opportunity to break their cycle of alcohol abuse. We have also committed to expanding the Alcohol Court to Katherine, Tennant Creek and Nhulunbuy.
While I have highlighted outcomes from unprecedented legislation introduced by this government last year as part of its ongoing commitment to combating alcohol issues, I would like to mention amendments made to the Liquor Act at the last sitting of parliament. Those amendments allow the Licensing minister to take a range of actions including:
the imposition of special conditions on liquor outlets;
These changes will enable rapid action to be taken when circumstances dictate so problems can be dealt with quickly when issues are most pressing. They also complement the measures being imposed as part of the Commonwealth government’s emergency intervention in the Northern Territory.
Honourable members will be aware that the Martin government is committed to closely working with the Australian government in relation to any measures which will have a positive impact in reducing grog running and the resultant alcohol and child abuse on Aboriginal communities. However, the rushed nature of the Commonwealth legislation has produced some anomalies, which the Territory government wants to see reversed.
We continue to oppose the requirement under federal law which now makes Territorians the only people in Australia who have to provide personal details at bottle shops when buying $100 or more worth of takeaway alcohol. We have opposed the laws which prevented anyone but those in organised tour groups from enjoying a drink at national parks on Aboriginal land. Fortunately, the federal minister has responded positively to our approaches on this matter, although his change of heart last week has not addressed this impediment completely.
Finally, legal advice I have received indicates that Territorians are still at risk of breaking Commonwealth law if they drink alcohol while fishing on many popular waterways across the Northern Territory, but there are positive benefits in relation to alcohol matters associated with the federal government’s intervention. While the Territory government has made more money available for licensing inspectors, the Australian government has done the same and they are to be complimented for this.
Amendments to the Liquor Act and the resulting declaration of Alice Springs town camps as dry areas also illustrates our willingness to work with the Australian government to achieve real outcomes to address alcohol abuse. As part of our cooperation with the Australian government, the last few months have demanded ongoing discussion, clarification and refinement about measures to be taken. The Northern Territory government will continue this high degree of cooperation as a way of ensuring initiatives are appropriate, properly targeted and well informed.
We are also in the process of a complete rewrite of the Northern Territory Liquor Act. The new act will enable the government to place greater emphasis on addressing antisocial behaviour through provisions concerning the responsible supply of liquor, and more integrated approaches to restricted areas. Parliamentary Counsel has produced the first draft of the new act and, following consideration by government agencies, it is intended that the draft act will be released for public comment for a period of three months. Depending on progress with the community and industry consultations, it is intended to introduce the new act in the Northern Territory parliament within the next six months.
The new act will be fundamental for setting up how the Territory goes about managing the responsible promotion, supply and consumption of alcohol for years to come. The government sees the act as a critical tool in its fight against alcohol misuse and abuse and regards the rewrite as a priority. I will say more about the new act at a later date.
The last 12 months have also seen significant progress on a watershed innovation that is being proposed for the East Arnhem region. This initiative centres on a computer-based permit system which will require people to produce a permit to obtain takeaway liquor. All retail outlets in the regions will be electronically linked, so that people can be identified and their purchases can be tracked. The Licensing Commission gave in-principle support to this system in August 2006, and extensive work has followed to deal with the various practical, legal, policy and ethical issues.
Unfortunately, the recent declaration of East Arnhem as a prescribed area by the Commonwealth government has introduced a late complication which will require further analysis and attention. This will delay any final decision to be made by the Licensing Commission. This system will enable limits to be set on the takeaway liquor that people can purchase, and it will allow proper enforcement and management of those limits. This is an exciting development because of its potential for effectively controlling individual access to alcohol. Unlike the federal government’s $100-plus takeaway law, which is applied across the board, the proposed electronic ID system will target problem drinkers. It will not pose the same privacy issues associated with the hand-written ledgers the federal government requires as part of the $100-plus takeaway law.
Clearly, those who are at greater risk of harming themselves or others because of their alcohol consumption must be primary candidates for the imposition of severe restrictions. If the proposal is accepted, close attention will need to be given to how the system is implemented and the outcomes it achieves. This experience will be important for determining whether the concept might be applied more broadly. The impetus for the introduction of this system came from the experience of Groote Eylandt, where, as I have already noted, there has been great success. We have committed a further $3.77m over the next five years to roll out an identification system in regional and remote takeaway outlets.
Another area of strategic development I would like to highlight is the development of Liquor Accords. These are voluntary agreements between licensees aimed at improving patron care both on and or around their premises. Accords have gained increasing popularity in other jurisdictions, and I have endorsed a framework of action that will assist the development and maintenance of accords as viable strategies for the Territory. Accords are valuable, as they allow licensees to become more active in helping to solve alcohol-related problems for the good of their local communities.
Finally, I would like to comment on the path to sustainable change in the long-standing culture of big drinking that exists in the Northern Territory. It is recognised that knowledge and attitude that people have about drinking will determine social acceptance and, collectively, will reinforce particular patterns of drinking. New developments are now being looked at to address this link. Strategies are being explored, aimed at changing the way in which people think about alcohol, its place in daily life, how it is managed and valued, and how it is consumed. Given the entrenched cultural challenge confronting the Territory, we know our efforts will have to be properly targeted and long-term in nature. These strategies will include social marketing, community education and other persuasion techniques based on information and skill development.
Initiatives such as the Good Sports program, which works with clubs to break the nexus between drinking and sport and recreation, are now being put in place. At the same time, research is being undertaken across the Territory with various targeted groups to inform the development of a comprehensive communication plan that will deliver key messages through a variety of media and other channels. These activities will seek to ensure that Territorians have correct and useful information about alcohol and associated risks so that they can make informed choices about their drinking and develop attitudes in support of more responsible drinking patterns throughout the community.
We are going to spend some $1m over the next five years on alcohol education programs to help change the way people think about their drinking. I should also say that I am on the record in complimenting the former CLP government on their Living with Alcohol program. It was a successful program. It was, of course, funded by a levy on drinks containing more than 3% by volume of alcohol. Due to the legal effect of the High Court decision of 1997, the Northern Territory government was not able to continue with the levy. We should be reassessing the program to find out what aspects of it were successful and what elements lend themselves to further development and implementation in the current circumstances. It is important that we do not ignore the lessons of history.
As we move on, we have to remain open to all of the options. We must ensure our efforts in relation to alcohol are done with the greatest possible cooperation amongst government agencies. We certainly need to see the highest possible degree of coordination between key agencies like licensing, the Department of Justice, health and police. I have already mentioned that the Liquor Act is currently in the process of being redrafted. I believe we have to consider the prospect of having a greater emphasis on harm minimisation within the act. After all, it is the Liquor Act which informs public policy on the role and use of alcohol within our community.
As a former health researcher, I am very much attuned to the need for our agencies to have access to the best possible data. We have to consider the prospect of broadening the scope of the current indicators to ensure we get the most relevant information on alcohol-related harm across the Territory. We must continue to refine and redefine the kind of data we are able to access and this clearly requires our key agencies to be working more closely together.
Turning around the Territory’s culture of alcohol is not going to be easy. The current culture of alcohol in the Territory did not develop overnight, so changing our culture of alcohol will be a long-term proposition. Central to any success in this endeavour we will be changing the way in which alcohol is seen in Territory society. Apart from working towards a greater degree of cooperation across government agencies and arming them with the most relevant data, we also need to consider how we address issues like alcohol education for children in school, the nature and funding of alcohol advertising campaigns, early intervention programs for problem drinkers and empowering non-drinkers, particularly on Aboriginal communities, with information about the harmful affects of alcohol.
Through the leadership provided by the Martin government, Territorians are being afforded more options for addressing alcohol issues. Available data indicates that those options can be successful in reducing alcohol-related problems for individuals and the community at large. This government must continue to be innovative, to explore further options and to support good practice.
I will digress: the report that was handed down today by the Substance Abuse committee is innovative. It looks at approaches, and much of it is in accord with what the government is currently doing. I welcome the new ideas and some of the propositions put by the committee. I am sure others will speak to that, but I digress for the present and I might come back to it in my closing statement.
The developments I have already spoken about today illustrate the steps that have already been taken and the directions we need to consider as we continue to work towards reducing the harmful effects of alcohol in the community. We recognise, however, that the journey is likely to be long and difficult, and that government and all sectors of the community will need to work together to find sustainable solutions to the problem alcohol abuse in the Territory.
Mr Deputy Speaker, I commend this statement to honourable members. I move that the Assembly take note of the statement.
Ms CARNEY (Opposition Leader): Mr Deputy Speaker, I thank the minister for his statement. It is good that it follows on from the Substance Abuse report, which I have not read but, obviously, I will.
We do not usually welcome ministers digressing from ministerial statements, but to the extent that you did and the reason for it, minister, I thought, for what it is worth, that was entirely appropriate.
I do not propose to comment on everything in your statement, and I do not propose to embark on a bagging government routine. I genuinely believe that this government, which always sounds patronising, is well meaning in the sense that it is endeavouring to tackle the scourge of alcoholism in the Northern Territory community. I wish you well, no doubt in the same way that when you were in opposition you wished my predecessors well.
Unless, as the minister referred to it, ‘the culture of alcohol’ changes, this is going to continue to consume successive governments in the Northern Territory. It is a terribly serious issue in terms of long-term budgetary implications for the Territory: health, law and order, housing, other resources will be consumed by the effects of this problem.
We wish you well, minister. It is unprecedented in the sense that you are the first Minister for Alcohol Policy. I do not think people should read from that there were no alcohol policies in the past, either under this government or indeed previous governments. I am sure there have been, and all of us really do have an enormous obligation to keep chipping away.
I will go through some points that I wrote down earlier in no particular sequence. On the dry town issue in Alice Springs, early indications are very encouraging. We battle to try to get a little political space on whose idea it was and so on but, in the context of this debate, I do not think much swings on it because the early indications are encouraging.
Having said that, there was, I understand it, an increased police presence. That was from the mounted police who came down to assist with the early implementation. I am advised by constituents, and I have not seen so much of it myself, that after the dry town measures were introduced, it was almost like turning off a light switch. There were very obvious results. It has been two or three months since the declaration and the incidence of people being seen around town drinking is going up again. It is evidenced by two things: actually seeing people around town; and the litter. Many people were commenting to me that some of the litter seemed to disappear because people were not drinking in town and were not dropping their litter all over the place. That is encouraging.
The dry town status commenced in August, which is the middle of winter or thereabouts in Alice Springs, so the summer period will be very interesting. Any sensible analysis will have to compare this summer period with the next summer period. Having said that, and obviously there are long-term analyses required, in the context of the effects of alcohol in the Northern Territory, I do not think any politician should be too proud to say no idea is a bad idea. I have not been here as long as others, but we are at the point where we really have to try things.
When I initially discovered the concept of the dry town, not only as a politician, but as a citizen of Alice Springs, I was not rapt, but I looked into it some more, spoke to some people, and I was of the view that it was worth a go. I still hold that view. Let us continue to assess it. The critical thing will be for government and government agencies to respond to the peaks and troughs that are surely going to happen over the course of the next 12 months or so. What we do not want in Alice Springs – and I believe I can say with a fair degree of confidence there is a lot of community support behind it at the moment – is the peaks and troughs to create anger and distress to such a point where the mood of the town changes and most people are not supportive of it. That is not good for the community. At the moment, we are all riding on a spirit of good will, but we must ensure that we do not lose that good will.
Government does have a role to play in that, and of course I am talking about policing. It is critical, everything from communications to police on the ground, working with council, of course there are some obvious links there, and the health sector. I ask you, minister, to continue to watch that. I am not too precious to approach you, even privately, if I detect that the mood has changed because all of us will be affected by it, so let us see what we can do to capitalise on that spirit of good will.
In relation to the Alice Springs Alcohol Framework, my colleague, the member for Katherine, will be talking about this and an overall policy framework in a bit more detail. It is a difficult one, and I appreciate it is difficult for government. On the one hand, we have quite different regions and different communities in the Territory, and there is a good argument that certain regions and communities should be allowed the flexibility to do things differently from someone else. At the same time, it is our view that there should be an overarching alcohol policy for all of the Territory, but that it have flexible aspects to it so that there are some fundamentals, if you like. We are one Territory, but a policy needs to be flexible enough to ensure that the needs and demands of various communities are met.
In terms of Alice Springs, minister, you mentioned a number of indicators in terms of the dry town. You mentioned hospital admissions and admissions to sobering-up shelters and so on. I believe I have asked you, either in the parliament or outside in some forum, to provide details. It was not in your statement, but I would be very grateful if you would confirm what the figures are for hospital admissions, noting the difference between men and women. I understand that the figures for men being admitted to hospital have gone down, but that the admission figures for women have not. We need to be very careful about this because if women, who are so often victims of violence from drunk or sober men, but in Alice Springs so many of them are victims of men who are drunk, if those figures have not gone down, then we have a problem. I am not sure that the minister would have those figures at his fingertips, but I would be grateful if he would provide them to me, either in his response or at some point in the future. Of course, if the figure for men being admitted has gone down and women has not, then we need to look into that and work out, if we can, a solution.
The Chief Minister was in Alice Springs at a forum several months ago. I attended that forum. Some of us were very surprised. As a local member, I think I can call how my community is feeling as well as the next politician. None of us can ever call our community perfect, but I do not detect any support for the closure of outlets one day a week. It was met with a degree of animosity when the Chief Minister announced it because it was not long after the dry town status commenced in August. The better view, in my opinion, is, if you are going to look at that, how about you wait until some evidence of the dry town impact is available? I am not talking just a few months down the track, but a proper analysis, say 12 months, at least.
I urge caution, given that you are the Minister for Alcohol Policy. If you are thinking about going down the track of closing outlets for one day, that might have political risks. You are likely to lose some support of the community. We do not need that at the moment on this very important issue. In your response, minister, I would be grateful if you would indicate your view on closing outlets one day a week. If it is your view that it is a reasonable thing to do, I wonder whether you might think about putting that forward so we have, at least, exploration of the 12-month period from August to August in terms of the dry town. Only then, a sensible decision can be made as to whether closing one day a week is sensible. I have my own views about that, and we can debate that at another time.
I was pleased with what you had to say on the Living with Alcohol program. I confess that I do not have at my fingertips all the details of that program. I do know that it all changed as a result of that momentous High Court decision. I remember the High Court decision; little did I know that many years later I would be standing here talking about it in this context. Take this question in the spirit in which it is intended: has there ever been a joint resolution from this parliament to any federal government asking for it to change the relevant legislation so that the levy that was lost can be returned to the Northern Territory? I am happy to say that I do not understand the details. Whether that has been done in the past, I do not know. Maybe that is something that we can look at as a parliament after the election, regardless of who is in. I put that as a constructive idea.
In respect of the new Liquor Act, I am glad you indicated a three-month consultation period. I suggest that you might even like to extend that informally. If you can start to get it to key stakeholders a bit before, that would be useful. I do not want to be provocative, but we do not want the situation with the new Liquor Act that is happening with the local government laws.
There is no doubt that, in terms of alcohol and indigenous people, they have a role to play in coming up with some solutions. I started my contribution, in essence, by saying that at unless this issue is dealt with in such a way that we see some meaningful outcomes in law and order results, health results and so on, this issue will continue to consume successive Territory governments.
There are some great things happening in some parts of the Northern Territory. There are some great Aboriginal people who are leading in their own way. I do not think there is enough Aboriginal leadership on this issue; there is more they can do. I guess, to a point, an answer to that is: ‘You have to embark on a capacity-building exercise which could take some years’. Yes, that is the case but, at the same time, we need to encourage Aboriginal leaders, many of whom would not even call themselves leaders, to stand up and say: ‘Enough is enough’. We are doing that as a result of the child abuse allegations that arose after the Lateline interviews last year. Both sides of politics and plenty of other commentators have invited Aboriginal leaders to stand up and say enough is enough. I have said, either in this place or outside, that in relation to violence, Aboriginal men need to stand up and say: ‘We are not going to do this any more’. Well, some of them need to stand up, men and women, and say: ‘We are not going to do it any more’, when it comes to drinking in the quantities that they do.
I am minded to revisit an issue which came up in the Greatorex by-election, which is the need for a detox facility in Alice Springs. I would like you to state on the Parliamentary Record your view about that. Are we in with a shot or are we not? We think that it is a good idea. The fact is that we cannot turn off the supply of alcohol to many people who are addicted to it and say: ‘Oh, well; you get that’. You need to treat the addiction. I do not think too many people would sensibly argue that we are as well equipped as we could or should be in that regard.
Leadership is required not only from government, not only from organisations, but from individuals, both black and white, the length and breadth of the Territory. There were references to it in your statement. I get very angry when I see it in publications or read it in speeches or comments: yes, alcohol is a factor in violence and sexual abuse, but sober men commit acts of violence and sexually abuse children. It is not so simple to say: ‘If we get rid of all of the grog, all of the crime will stop’. Some of it will, for sure, but do we really think that if there is not a drop of alcohol in the Northern Territory Aboriginal men will suddenly stop beating their wives? I do not think so. Some of the policy makers need to get their heads around this issue. It frustrates me enormously that they either elect not to or just do not get the argument. I am happy to have it any day of the week, but I cannot impress on you more, minister, how seriously I take this issue. I say again: sober men commit acts of violence.
That ends my list of issues. I will either be listening in the Chamber, or I will read the Hansard, because I invited you to comment on some specific things and I would be very grateful if you would answer them. I do wish you well as the first Minister for Alcohol Policy in the Northern Territory, and to the extent that you are having a go, you have our support. We know you will not always do it quite the way we like it, but at the same time, there are some things that we have in common, and there are certainly some common outcomes that we would like to see. Good luck, minister, and thank you.
Mr STIRLING (Treasurer): Madam Speaker, I support the Minister for Alcohol Policy’s statement on the progress of Territory government’s alcohol reforms. I listened closely to the Leader of the Opposition’s comments and I thank her for putting so strongly the idea of bipartisan support of the government’s endeavours in this area. I will pick up a couple of the issues that she raised, and the minister can correct me if I am wrong.
Certainly, the Living with Alcohol program, of which the Chief Minister Marshall Perron was such a strong advocate, was a success, but it relied on excise-raising powers in relation to differential of pricing of beer; able to up the price of heavy and reduce light. In fact, under Marshall Perron as Chief Minister, at any government function, it was light beer only and it was pretty awful stuff because it was the early days of light beer manufacturing and you did not have the range of boutique beers, mid-strengths and varieties you have today. Carlton Light springs to mind, Courage was an early variety; they were not that attractive in the early days, but nonetheless, that was the policy undertaken by Marshall Perron. The figures over the first 12 months or so were startling in terms of trauma, injuries, crime, hospital admissions, court and so on.
The problem was, of course, once the High Court decision knocked out the power due to revocation of the excise raising rights to state and territory governments, the then government relied on that as a funding mechanism to fund the whole Living with Alcohol program. Of course, Chief Minister Perron’s time came, and there was no real drive and no champion within the then CLP government to continue what was very good work undertaken by Marshall Perron.
Once the funding mechanism had broken, there did not seem to be a will to pick it up and try to find another way around it. The pricing differential was an effective response in the sense that more people drank light beer because you could drink more of it for the same price, but you did not get as intoxicated as you might.
Has this parliament ever undertaken any action on that? No. In part, it is because it a decision that applies nationally and it is not thought likely that the Australian government would give the Northern Territory power in the sense that no other state or territory would have it. That is not to say that some thought should not go into approaching this from another angle or any other ideas.
I pick up on what the Leader of the Opposition said about every idea hitting the table in community discussion and debate is worthy of meritorious consideration. I agree. It is similar to words of a former boss of the CLP, Marshall Perron again, when he introduced Living with Alcohol. He said: ‘We don’t pretend this is perfect, but we are going to give it our best shot and we will be back in here amending and changing this as often as is needed in order to keep it effective’. One thing is certain in the game of alcohol reform and trying to mitigate against alcohol abuse: nearly any measure you implement will be undermined and unwound over a period of time as people find their way around it or the measure itself becomes ineffective. She is not the first person in parliament to say that, but it is a statement with which I totally agree. Every idea is worthy of consideration, particularly if it comes from the grassroots. That is relation to the excise and funding of the Living with Alcohol program.
I agreed with the Leader of the Opposition when she said generalised statements such as ‘Child sexual abuse or violence is caused only by alcohol’. That is not true. It is not true to say only alcohol drives that. It is true to say that alcohol drives a huge measure of it. If we look at domestic violence, for example, well over 50% and somewhere close to 60% of all domestic violence in the Northern Territory is alcohol-inspired. Over 50% or 60% of assaults are in the same order. Often, property crime and alcohol are related. It is often said by magistrates that some 70% to 80% of the cases before them, if it were not for alcohol abuse, if they were not off their face smashed on alcohol, what happened would not have occurred, whether it was violence, a brick through a window or whatever the situation was.
I know from sitting in Nhulunbuy Magistrates Court from time to time over many years, many of the cases being dealt with are the result of alcohol abuse. That is why I again find myself in agreement with what the Leader of the Opposition was saying about this question of alcohol abuse being not only the most serious social issue pressing on the Northern Territory government; it is a millstone around our neck until we get on top of it because the costs careen out of control.
If I go back to Living with Alcohol, they were able to demonstrate in terms of hundreds of millions of dollars the costs in hospital admissions, trauma, police services, and admissions to crisis accommodation centres. They rounded up all of the costs accruing as a result of alcohol abuse running to hundreds of millions of dollars per annum and were able to demonstrate an actual dollar saving to the Northern Territory when Living with Alcohol, in its early days, was effective, and it was. It could be demonstrated in a bottom dollar return to government.
Those issues are still around. Something like over 80% of our prison population is indigenous, and well over 50% of that 80% are in that prison because they were abusing alcohol or substances, but it was generally alcohol, when they committed whatever they committed to land them in prison. You can see from that alone, all of the costs of court appearances, the police work, everything that has gone on in order for that person to land in Berrimah or Alice Springs Gaol, has cost the government and the taxpayer of the Northern Territory many thousands of dollars.
I congratulate minister Burns on his handling of these issues. It is, indeed, a most pressing issue. He brings a scientific and disciplined mental approach to it, but also a balanced approach. One of the issues that confronts him as a minister, or any minister in this government, is when you try to rein in the excesses of alcohol abuse, you run the risk of everyone being affected, everyone being penalised or punished in some way, for what are the out-of-control antics of a minority, and there has to be a balance in this.
Sure, the community, in some ways, will have to wear some discomfort with some measures, but you have to keep that to an absolute minimum because the vast majority of people use alcohol pretty sensibly and wisely. The statistics he set out in his statement, particularly in regard to indigenous Territorians, are unsurprising, but nonetheless, they are very disturbing, and that is why, in part, our initiatives in this area are so important.
Alcohol Management Plans are a central component of our strategy to limit the harm caused by alcohol. They are based on cooperation, consultation and local involvement to come up with local solutions. They came out of the work done by Daryl Manzie and Donna Ah Chee in coming up with a framework to deal with alcohol issues in the Northern Territory. We have some good examples already, particularly in relation to Groote Eylandt with its Alcohol Management Plan. That was touched on by the minister. There has been a two-thirds reduction in police call-outs for aggravated assaults, three-quarters of a decrease in public drunkenness and huge decreases in public disturbances and property crime, again underlining that relationship between alcohol abuse and this type of behaviour.
Sergeant Tony Fuller of Northern Territory Police was instrumental in establishing the Groote Eylandt reforms by involving the local communities. He was in charge of the Groote Eylandt Police Station. We were fortunate enough that, when Tony Fuller finished his time Groote Eylandt, he went to Nhulunbuy and has been our Senior Sergeant Officer-in-Charge of Nhulunbuy for some years. He has done an excellent job working in Nhulunbuy where we are getting close to implementing a plan along similar, but a little different from that implemented so successfully in Groote Eylandt.
As the minister explained, it will include a computer-based permit system for takeaway liquor to specifically target problem drinkers. I never get tired of congratulating Senior Sergeant Tony Fuller on his work. He has been assisted by a widely representative cohort of the Nhulunbuy community, at different times 30 to 40 people as part of Nhulunbuy Community Harmony. As people come and go, it has been a bit of a moving feast, but there is still a core of people who were at the inaugural Community Harmony meeting quite some years ago now.
Unfortunately, Senior Sergeant Fuller, now Superintendent Tony Fuller, will not be in Nhulunbuy to see the fruits of his work. He has been promoted to Superintendent and is moving to Darwin. That is what happens when you have very good police officers, unfortunately. They are like good classroom teachers; they get promoted and leave the excellent work they were doing. However, our loss will certainly be the greater Northern Territory’s gain because he is an outstanding police officer.
The successes that we have seen so far are why the government has committed a further $2.5m over the next five years to keep work on, and keep the community’s active in the implementation of these local Alcohol Management Plans. I have to make this point: because they are grassroots, discussed and consulted and the ideas of the community are brought together, they stand in stark contrast to the top-down, centrally-imposed Canberra idea of alcohol reforms favoured by the current federal Liberal government.
Minister Brough gets a bit bristly at his media appearances whenever minister Burns has pointed out, as any minister would in his position, the more pointless, stupid, impractical components of minister Brough’s alcohol laws. Of course, we have heard minister Brough trumpeting an arrest made under the $100 limit laws. It is far from the truth. I am sure the Minister for Alcohol Policy will speak about that. He is claiming credit for something that is not as a result of his $100 limit laws at all. The member for Solomon was, at one stage, keen to see these laws go in six months, and now he thinks maybe there will have to be a review and consideration. It might encourage him to think that they are, in fact, a good thing.
In relation to these laws in Nhulunbuy, anecdotally we have more people coming into town to drink on top of the group of itinerants who generally are responsible for the majority of antisocial behaviour in our town. We have seen, on the detrimental side, events like the Gove Bush Golf Classic, an event that has operated in Nhulunbuy for many years. It ostensibly starts at the Gove Golf Club, but it works around many of the suppliers that supply to the region and many of them to Alcan. Representatives come from all over Australia, generally pretty well cashed up, too. They are treated to a fantastic weekend in Nhulunbuy involving a whole range of events centred around the Gove Bush Golf Classic. It might start at the golf course, but it would range right across the peninsula where, I dare not say greens, but their equivalent is cut out of the bush over a widely dispersed area. They travel to these different holes and play their round of golf. It is a huge charity fundraiser, and brings many dollars not just to Nhulunbuy, but the proceeds, the profits from that Gove Bush Golf Classic have, in the years past, gone to charities. That event has gone off our calendar as a result of these stupid laws from Mal Brough, who would not have a clue. He would not have a clue about the Gove Bush Golf Classic and would not understand the tremendous damage done both in social networking with all of these suppliers coming into town and meeting the customers they supply on a regular basis, nor the bottom-line effect on the charities that used to benefit from what was a major event on our social calendar.
Similarly, Gove Beach Volleyball, run along similar lines with the profits being distributed to charity - gone because you cannot consume alcohol on the beach. Mal Brough would not have a clue about that. Here is a minister in Canberra. If they are going to pass laws like that, they ought to understand the detrimental impact that they are going to have on Territorians. Do not worry, much will be made of this in Nhulunbuy in the lead-up to the election. We will be making it very clear indeed that this is one Mal Brough and Prime Minister Howard’s initiative and, if you want to get rid of this stupid law, get rid of the Howard government. I will be making that very clear in the lead-up to the election. We know they try to confuse the issue; they try to overlay the Northern Territory. They try to con people to believe that it is the Northern Territory that has passed these ridiculous laws.
The problem we have with alcohol reform is not just that, but you will not get a more stark example than that. It has been highlighted by a report released today by the National Drug Research Institute, whose findings show very clearly that policies with support from the ground up are always going to be much more effective at solving social problems than those imposed on a top-down level. This is study based on two years worth of research into alcohol restrictions in indigenous communities. It makes very loud and clear that voluntary adoption and local involvement invariably leads to better results. If Mal Brough can read, that might be a document that he might like to get hold of and try to understand.
Another initiative relevant to my ministerial portfolio is the establishment and expansion of the specialist Alcohol Courts. These courts have been operating for a little over a year now, and provide a much better way to deal with people who commit low-level crime due to their alcohol addiction. Instead of the usual system of punishment, appropriate offenders are channelled into quite intensive rehabilitation in the firm knowledge that failure will most likely bring with it imprisonment. It is a chance to break their alcohol addiction, a chance to break out of the offending that comes with alcohol abuse. People are taking the opportunity to their advantage. It is going to expand into Katherine, Tennant Creek and Nhulunbuy with increased funding through Closing the Gap initiatives announced earlier this year.
I commend the minister for his statement. I urge him to keep up the good work in order to further reduce alcohol-related harm in the Territory.
There is one other issue I want to raise, which is slightly related, and it is the issue of the mixed media messages arising from alcohol. Together with many thousands of Victorians I was absolutely thrilled to see Geelong win the AFL Premiership Cup this year. I was less thrilled with the footage during the week. The media seemed to have a bent on following the Geelong Football Club around for the next four days. These are guys, tremendously disciplined in order to compete at the highest level in Australia in the AFL, and for 10 months they are drilled into almost abstinence - I will not say total abstinence - but their daily workload is such that the body is not going to stand tormenting themselves with alcohol with the physical workload that is expected of them for all but seven weeks of the year. There are seven weeks of the year, which commence immediately after the grand final, when they are effectively on leave. Once the seven weeks is up, they are back into pre-season training and the 10 month grind starts again.
They guys are young, fit, and at the peak of their physicality as young men. I do not begrudge them going out and having a beer to celebrate a magnificent achievement. Not very many people get to play in an AFL premiership winning side. Go out and have a drink; that is exactly what they are going to do. They are young men and they are going to enjoy it, but I found this association with success in sport and alcohol a bit much, and I mean heavy alcohol intake to the point of view of closing down a hotel in Geelong to accommodate the Geelong football team. No-one else could go into that hotel except Channel 9, Channel 7 and Channel 10, which were able to go in there and take footage of the Geelong Football Club players hoeing into bacon and eggs, liberal lashings of tomato sauce, which is fine and good, but accompanied by voluminous jugs of beer and huge tankards in front of them.
There are many messages in that: you cannot have a good time without getting drunk; and you must have alcohol to celebrate success. There were a whole lot of very unhealthy messages in that. I know that week is over. Those players have all gone home because that is what they do. They spend probably the best part of that week in order to (1) celebrate a huge success, a huge triumph; and (2) tidy up matters in Geelong and then, unless they are home-bred Geelong people, they go home to Queensland - they come home to Nhulunbuy in the case of young Nathan - for a couple of weeks and then they are back in Geelong preparing for the pre-season again.
I know that is not the life they lead. I know they are highly disciplined and will be back into work again. My reason for raising this is the media. It is not and should not be necessary to splash that in our faces every night for about four days, showing us just how much these Geelong footballers, or any indeed football club, can drink. I go to an Essendon Captain, premiership winning captain 1984-85, one Simon Madden. They won back-to-back. They won the 1984 flag and they asked Simon Madden after the 1985 grand final: ‘Simon, how does this feel back-to-back?’ He said: ‘I have to tell you, this is the most deeply satisfying moment of my life’. He said: ‘Last year was just a wipe out. I cannot remember even winning the flag last year, but I am going to remember every second of this year, the joy and the deep satisfaction that this has brought’. I hope Geelong, and I think they will, get around to that point of view and say if it does happen to them again, they might think about the memory function from last year and decide they will enjoy this one.
Of course, they are going to go and celebrate. Of course they will; they are young men. I wish them all the best doing that. However, I do question why the media has to throw it on the nightly news for three or four days in a row that the celebrations still continues because that is a bit of a wrong message in terms of the celebration of sporting success having to be accompanied by huge intakes of alcohol.
Mr CONLAN (Greatorex): Madam Speaker, I thank the minister for his statement today on what is a very serious issue in the Northern Territory. Everyone in this House is fully aware of the problems related to alcohol in the NT and we are hard pressed for a day to go by without witnessing some of the results and the effects of alcohol.
As the minister said, we do enjoy social drink with family and friends and most of us drink alcohol responsibly, but the Territory does have a poor history when it comes to the harmful effects of alcohol consumption, highlighted by the Little Children are Sacred report and a series of crime summits which were held in Alice Springs this year. While the lack of law and order was the thrust of those summits, it was overwhelmingly agreed that alcohol abuse was the root cause of antisocial behaviour throughout the Northern Territory and particularly in Alice Springs. The summits highlighted that about 85% of the workload of police is attributed to antisocial behaviour. Furthermore, the issue affects our health services, which puts strain and extra pressure on staff and hospital facilities.
The Little Children are Sacred report states that:
- … alcohol and other drugs are having a massive negative impact on the social fabric of Aboriginal communities and contribute greatly to family and cultural breakdown
I agree with the minister that we should continue to enjoy the positive aspects of alcohol, but the figures highlighted in the statement cannot be ignored. They are quite disturbing. The NT has the highest level of alcohol consumption in Australia and it is over seven litres per adult higher than the national average for 2005-06. It is a situation that clearly needs urgent attention and it is therefore a positive step by this government to create the portfolio of Alcohol Policy. The results that we are seeing thus far appear to be good. Dry town status for Alice Springs appears to have addressed some of the problems of alcohol abuse on the streets. It is only early days and the trend associated with the vast climate changes that we have between winter and summer cannot be discounted as the reason for the drop. We will have to wait and see how the law is treated as the summer months roll on. I know Katherine is considering dry town status and I encourage other jurisdictions feeling the effects of alcohol-related antisocial behaviour to apply to become a dry town.
The minister also mentioned a one-size-fits-all approach and talked about local solutions for local problems, suggesting the latter approach is more suited to the Northern Territory with its unique demographics. The Leader of the Opposition said that some fundamental guidelines should be in place to help communities devise plans. It can be very difficult for communities which are so consumed by problems associated with alcohol abuse and alcohol-related harm to devise plans on their own. They need a guide and they need help from the Northern Territory government. They need help from the community to do that. While we agree the Territory is diverse and is made up of unique people and cultures, we feel the need for local solutions to local problems, but also a fundamental framework, a guideline, needs to be in place to help these communities formulate a plan.
The minister mentioned the ability for private residents to declare their property dry. According to the figures in the statement, there have been 278 applications to have alcohol banned from households, with 214 declarations already in force. It is a good initiative and has empowered tenants of public housing who previously were suffering as a result of alcohol-related antisocial behaviour to restore some sense of normality and peace in their lives. That is a good thing and appears to be working well.
As mentioned in this House, Madam Speaker, I have received many complaints from residents in Alice Springs about public housing tenants. They have noticed an increase in the antisocial behaviour in public housing, perhaps not a direct result of the dry town status, but certainly since 1 August, there seems to have been an increase in complaints. The Minister for Housing seems to think that I am making it up or that residents are making it up simply because I have not responded to an e-mail in a 24 hour period. I can assure the Minister for Housing that my office is compiling him a thorough file of these complaints. I hope he is able to address those issues. I can say that in response to that e-mail, we have been in the process of contacting complainants for their permission to release their name and details. I am sure the minister will respect the privacy of those people. Some people do tell you things in confidence so we just want to ensure that it is okay to release their details to the minister.
The question I put to him on Tuesday was not an attack on the dry town status or the Liquor Commission, the Department of Housing or anyone else; it was simply echoing the concerns of my constituents. It certainly was not meant to be political, but if the Minister for Housing wants to use that as a political football, he can go right ahead.
The Minister for Alcohol Policy also mentioned attitudes to alcohol and its social acceptance. We welcome any strategy that explores the way people think about alcohol. The $1m invested in alcohol programs, I think he said over five years, is a good thing, as is a reassessment of the Living with Alcohol program, which was a good program. It was good to hear the minister acknowledge that, and if we can get that back into Territory life, that would be good.
The minister made a very good point about the culture of drinking in the Territory. It did not develop overnight, and it certainly will not change overnight. There needs to be cooperation from many avenues of the community, obviously government and opposition. The Treasurer made a very good point about the media and coverage after the AFL grand final. I was surprised and a little disturbed to see so much coverage of these men, who had achieved everything they wanted in life, drinking to what seemed to be excess and running amok. The media needs to take responsibility and play a role in addressing alcohol problems in the Northern Territory. Obviously, local councils need to play a role, welfare agencies and, of course, business. The businesses that sell alcohol need to trade in alcohol responsibly.
Madam Speaker, like the Leader of the Opposition, I wish the minister well in his new role as Minister for Alcohol Policy. It certainly is not an easy task; it is a complex issue we face. It is a problem that has built up over a long time, and it will take a long time to solve. He has a big job ahead of him, but it will be made much easier with cooperation from all sectors of the Northern Territory community. He certainly will have the cooperation of the opposition.
Mr McADAM (Local Government): Madam Speaker, I support my colleague, the Minister for Alcohol Policy, and extend my best wishes to him. I know he is very committed and genuine about making a difference about the impact that alcohol has on us as a community. He approaches things in a practical way. I agree that he will be able to bring a high level of scientific rigour to the issues facing us.
It is appropriate that the report, Substance Abuse in Remote Communities: Confronting the Confusion and Disconnection was tabled today. I congratulate the Select Committee on Substance Abuse in the Community. I intend to speak briefly to the report later. Obviously, I have not read it all, but there are some critical points in the context of housing and employment. I congratulate everyone associated with the exercise. As the opposition would agree, this is an issue that deserves bipartisan support. It is for that reason these reports become more critical and relevant because it is not something we are going to get on top of today; it is an ongoing process.
I assure the member for Greatorex that I do not see the question you asked yesterday and my response necessarily as being an attack on me personally from a political perspective or vice versa. I would like to think if we were to harness our respective resources, we might have a joint attack on alcohol abuse. No offence taken, member for Greatorex, but I honestly believe that, as a new member, it is important to understand the impact of excessive alcohol use. It is in the best interests of the Northern Territory that we work collectively together to achieve outcomes to which so many Territorians aspire.
Our challenge in the Territory is to manage alcohol to reduce the harm which coincides with excessive consumption. The Territory average per capita consumption of pure alcohol is 7% higher than the Australian average. We see heavy drinking contributing to poor attendance at work, homelessness, antisocial behaviour and violence, illness and death. The costs are borne by the Territory community. Alcohol abuse hits the collective hip pocket and, more importantly, takes its toll on the wellbeing of all.
The Little Children are Sacred report was conclusive that alcohol and other drugs are ripping at the fabric of indigenous communities. A quarter of all indigenous alcohol-related deaths across Australia occur in the Northern Territory. The situation, as the minister pointed out, is dire in Central Australia. Over 60% of my constituents in the Barkly are indigenous people and I am absolutely committed, as I am sure are others members in this House, to securing a future for all Territorians, including those people in the Barkly.
I want to make it clear that when one in three Territorians are potentially in strife with alcohol and other drugs, the whole Territory is in strife. This is one of the key reasons why this government is absolutely committed to turning the situation around. Our challenges are many, so our approach, starting with the 2004 Alcohol Framework, has been multifaceted. Alcohol management plans are a key plank of our overarching Alcohol Framework. They provide for tailored practical solutions to local problems.
Alice Springs was the first town to implement a management plan, and we have witnessed a marked decline in crimes against people and fewer admissions to sobering-up shelters and treatment centres. Alice Springs was the first urban centre to prohibit drinking in all public places.
The minister also highlighted the experience at Groote Eylandt where a locally developed permit system for the management of takeaway grog has seen very positive results; a 75% reduction in public drunkenness is significant.
Alcohol management plans will soon be in place in Tennant Creek and Palmerston and work is under way in other locations. We will support this work with $2.5m over the next five years.
Indeed, we are working across many fronts. The Alcohol Court will be expanded from Darwin and Alice Springs to include Katherine, Tennant Creek and Nhulunbuy. Whilst that is a great initiative, we have to give consideration to some of the smaller regional communities such as Borroloola and Ali Curung where circuit courts sit. Perhaps in the future, we can look at the introduction of Alcohol Courts into the smaller regional centres.
Under Closing the Gap, we will invest $10m to boost our efforts on alcohol and drug management. We are pioneering a computer-based permit system in East Arnhem. We are working at a local level on liquor accords which will focus on patron care and community ownership of alcohol-related issues. The minister has announced that the Liquor Act is under review and I look forward to him introducing this important legislation.
This government believes in targeted strategies and intelligent policy, and we institute strong measures where strong measures are needed. A good example of this is our work to manage alcohol abuse in public housing. The minister flagged that 214 households have sought to have their homes declared dry; 204 of these families are tenants in public housing with Territory Housing assisting them to take control of their homes and say no to drinkers. There are over 100 in Darwin and Palmerston, 24 in Katherine, and seven in Tennant Creek. Territory Housing has begun working within the provisions of this government’s antisocial behaviour legislation since it was introduced in June 2006.
More recently, we knew that drinkers might try to move from town camps and remote communities to public housing in urban centres on the back of everything that is going on in the bush. We know that one of the consequences of restricted access to alcohol is that people with alcohol dependency can move to other areas with easier access to grog. There is anecdotal evidence that this is also occurring as a consequence of changes associated with the Commonwealth government’s intervention in the Northern Territory.
We were well prepared to manage the impact this might have on urban communities, particularly in Alice Springs. As an example, we have put officers of Territory Housing on the ground in July of this year to support at-risk tenants to declare their homes restricted premises. Fifty-eight households have applied to have their homes declared dry in Alice Springs as part of this strategy.
As Minister for Housing, I am pleased to report that complaints about antisocial behaviour in public housing in Alice Springs have decreased by 40% since August. We attribute this to a range of measures that have been put in place to address antisocial behaviour in Alice Springs and obviously this takes in stronger policing in that community. Since the supply plan was introduced in October 2006, there has been a 10% reduction, as the minister indicated, in alcohol consumption, a 14% decline in crimes against people, a 47% decrease in admissions to sobering-up shelters, a 21% decrease in uptake of treatment services, and an overall decline in the number of admissions to hospital for alcohol-related matters.
We are now planning to declare the common areas of at-risk public housing complexes across the Northern Territory as restricted premises. Public tenants who indulge in alcohol-fueled antisocial behaviour clearly do not respect their neighbours. Residents who behave in this way will face having their homes declared dry. The dry areas will be closely monitored by security patrols and the police. There will be a need to engage and consult with the tenants of those facilities and we will do that. We will also consult with the respective members of this House, members on this side, Independents and the opposition, the CLP. We will consult with all of those members in respect of facilities in your electorate so that you can be fully informed and engaged with this process.
Territory Housing currently invests $1m per annum in security patrols across the Territory, and we are exploring new and innovative ways to get more from that dollar. I alluded earlier to the issues of people moving to town without secure accommodation. We have increased our efforts in the area of supported, managed accommodation for visitors to Alice Springs. A $2m investment in Stuart Lodge, which opened its doors on 27 May, has paid dividends for the community of Central Australia. We have already put up 5800 people at Stuart Lodge, a dry facility, and we will continue this solid work by investing $1.3m in the Yipirinya Hostel. This government worked in collaboration at a grassroots level to bring Stuart Lodge to fruition, again proving the value of developing solutions with people on the ground at the local level.
We have also worked closely with community organisations such as Tangentyere and Julalikari Councils in Alice Springs and Tennant Creek respectively on Life Skills programs and similar services to help at-risk households to take pride in their place and their community. We have invested in the vicinity of $2.5m for this to occur.
I mentioned earlier that I would make reference to Confronting the Confusion and Disconnection, the report tabled earlier today, particularly about the areas of housing and local government. As I said, I have not had the time to completely read the report, but clearly, overcrowding in houses in bush communities and major regional centres is a real problem. It really indicates that we have to be more innovative and creative because where you have a household that is consumed totally by alcohol and you have young children and people who work, it is very difficult for those people to live a useful life.
One of the real challenges for this government along with the Commonwealth government is to provide better housing options. To this effect, the Commonwealth and Northern Territory governments have recently announced about $973m of funding, which is a significant increase compared with what occurred in the past. About $673m of that will be targeted to bush communities to alleviate overcrowding and to the regional centres.
I mentioned Stuart Lodge where we have a supported managed option. It is beholden on us to give consideration to the establishment of those kinds of facilities in regional centres and in some of the larger communities such as Borroloola, Timber Creek, Mataranka and Ti Tree. People are looking for a safe, secure environment and that is one of the options.
Another issue to which the report referred was unemployment. Most people know that if you are unemployed, it does not allow you the opportunity to fulfil your life in the way other Australians do. The challenge we face is being able to provide real jobs for people in the bush. We have come part of the way with the proposed changes to CDEP, with which I do not agree. Structural changes should be made, certainly, where there is a labour market force, but where there is no labour market force, proper employment outcomes and opportunities should be afforded to people. As I mentioned, there is some capacity to achieve that. We have announced 300 jobs in ranger-type programs. There was also a commitment of an extra $10m for education and health and a further $60m, which comprised $30m each from the Northern Territory and Commonwealth governments, for local government reform.
Much has been said about local government reform in this House over the last few months. There is a real opportunity to ensure that we maximise the benefits and opportunities which are going to flow through to communities like Litchfield, Marrakai and all the others. The shires will have a greater capacity to coordinate issues like alcohol abuse and its impact upon their communities within a prescribed area. That is one of the things that we forget in terms of this reform, particularly for communities in the bush. It will allow people to look at programs across a range of communities and ensure the dollars are utilised effectively. More importantly, we, as government, can use that as a means to refocus how we provide services, not only for alcohol-type programs, but a whole range of other programs in the bush communities.
I now turn to Tennant Creek. A significant decline in drinking and alcohol abuse in Tennant Creek came on the strength of reductions in trading hours for liquor outlets in 1996. A recent report from the National Drug Research Institute highlights drinking declined by 20% and alcohol-related hospital admissions decreased by 29% from 1996 to 1998. This was a community-driven response to local circumstances. However, we have witnessed a 15% increase in consumption in 1999-2000, and this was followed by a sharp decrease in 2004-05. The experience of Tennant Creek reaffirms the need for constant vigilance when it comes to alcohol management. I was pleased to learn that a public meeting will be held at the Council Chambers on 30 October as part of development of the Alcohol Management Plan, and a further meeting will occur soon after in respect to dry areas.
The point I make is that we had this initiative occurring in 1996 in Tennant Creek with the dry town, Thirsty Thursday as it later came to be known. It highlights the fact that where you have a community in which there is excessive alcohol abuse, it is not something you can say: ‘We have put this in place, so it is going to work into the future’. It is a timely reminder that it is not something we are going to fix overnight; we have to remain on our toes and ensure we are flexible and innovative enough to be able to respond to needs as they arise and, more importantly, to respond with appropriate programs.
Borroloola is a small community that lacks resources. There is a lack of expertise and knowledge to support the community. I know the minister is aware of that, but an Alcohol Management Plan has been talked about for Borroloola for quite some time. It is imperative that we put something in place as quickly as we can. I know the Liquor Commission is conducting a hearing regarding the future of the Borroloola Inn. More importantly, where possible with resources that are available, we should be making a concentrated effort to address some of the issues at Borroloola.
The same applies to Elliott, a small community 250 km to the north of Tennant Creek. In fact, Elliott was one of the first towns in Australia to introduce restrictions with a six-can limit, and it has proven very useful. My belief is that the majority of the community wishes to maintain those conditions, but at the same time, we need to have a fresh look at what has occurred with the six-can limit: what improvements, what we can do to provide more services to places like Elliott and Borroloola, and not only those places, but many of the smaller communities across the Northern Territory.
Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I know that minister Burns is committed. It is incumbent upon us, as parliamentarians and members of the community, to do everything we possibly can to overcome excessive alcohol abuse in the Northern Territory.
Mrs MILLER (Katherine): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I respond to the Minister for Alcohol Policy’s first statement to the House. When you finished the statement, minister, you said ‘the journey is likely to be long and difficult’. You are so right; it is going to be long. The inherent problems we have which are caused by alcohol in our communities are not going to be resolved overnight. There is no question about that, and there would not be any argument from anyone in this House. The important thing is to address the issue and to do what we can.
Many of the communities have done much research into what best suits them. I wanted to include in my response some comments by the Katherine Region Harmony Group when they put together their first report in 2006. Their introduction to the report said:
- The problems associated with alcohol abuse and misuse have been of concern to people in Katherine for at least two decades, as summarised in the report prepared by the Menzies School of Health Research.
- A number of groups have sought to address these concerns, including the town council, local business and resident groups, the Chamber of Commerce and the Tourism Association, community service organisations and members of parliament. A range of measures have been suggested and, in some cases, implemented.
Statistics indicate that the level of per capita consumption of alcohol in Katherine is particularly high, both in comparison within the Northern Territory and across Australia, and the harms associated are also high. According to a 1999 ABC report, the per capita consumption is 70% higher than the rest of the country.
Some of the solutions which have been implemented include limiting trading hours, and creating a drinking park. Neither was successful.
When I was the Chair of the Katherine Regional Tourism Association for a few years, I can remember at one stage thinking: ‘I must stand up every month at this meeting and say the same things over and over again, such as we have so much antisocial behaviour, which is all caused by alcohol and we have to do something’. In the end, I approached the local member, Mike Reed, and said: ‘We have to do something and I do not know what to do, but something has to be done’. He said to me: ‘You run a licensed outlet. What are you going to do?’ I said I was prepared to cut trading hours at my licensed outlet, which was mainly catering for tourists, but there were local people who did use Red Gum Tourist Park to buy alcohol. I said I was prepared to reduce the trading hours at my establishment if it meant it would make a difference to the social aspects of Katherine.
Unfortunately, after a series of meetings and some hearings in Katherine, it was very challenging to try to have that implemented. Trials were held in Katherine for six months. The first six months was opening from 2 pm to 8 pm, which did restrict trading, but the benefits of that far exceeded the inconvenience for people to be able to buy alcohol whenever they wanted.
The reason I am talking about that is there needs to be a balance and people need to understand the seriousness of the problem and that we have to take serious action. We are not going to be able to please everyone and there will always be people who will be dissatisfied with what is being implemented, but for the sake of the seriousness of the problem that we have, we have to do whatever we can.
I want to discuss some of the methodology used in collecting information in Katherine at the time. A company visited Katherine one week in August 2006 and consultations took place through focus groups and one-to-one interviews with 69 people representing businesses and organisations in Katherine. That was reasonable research, I thought. Discussions were also held with 24 people living in the long grass around Katherine, and all individuals were asked the same questions. The consultant also observed the purchase and use of alcohol in Katherine and, in addition, members of the Katherine Regional Harmony Group conducted a general community survey outside Woolworths in August 2006. That is pretty comprehensive; it was not a small sample and they asked everyone the same questions.
They asked businesses and organisations: what are you most proud of in your community? This is how it came out: family, community, work, physical attractiveness, and access to services. They were the priorities in that community. They are the things that all communities look for. Those factors are highly relevant to every community. We all want a great lifestyle for our families. We all want a lovely, close-knit community. We all want good career prospects. We all want to have good weather, and we have that. We have a beautiful river in Katherine, and we wanted access to services. Everyone wants that, but in Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs, it is particularly relevant for people from outlying communities who end up living in the long grass when they come in.
This research sought to determine the underlying causes of alcohol misuse. People were asked to identify the underlying factors. The factors identified were grouped under three headings: systemic factors which related to the perceived hard drinking culture in Katherine and the Northern Territory; the accessibility of alcohol; the effects of racism and consequent lack of access to employment; low levels of self-esteem; and differing attitudes to work in traditional communities where work is more about ceremony than it is about livelihood.
Community factors included lack of leadership, services and employment opportunities in outlying communities, peer pressure, the effects of dispossession of land, family and culture, and the impact of poor role models. The individual factors were hopelessness, despair and grief, boredom, loss of pride and self-esteem. They were asked: what do you think needs to happen in this community? It got down to the same thing: supply control; demand reduction; and harm reduction. It came back to all of those things.
They were asked to describe what Katherine would look like in the future when the alcohol management plan was fully in place and everything was as it should be. The following statement is a collection of their responses, which is a wonderful outcome. I would love to see this. I would love to see Katherine’s name replaced with all the other names as well for each community.
Katherine is a clean place where Aboriginal people are in jobs and walking tall and proud, healthy and strong, in the streets. People are able to drink responsibly and normally at the footy and under shady trees. Picnics take place by the river. Staff in shops are polite and friendly and Aboriginal children are in school and doing well. Economic development is taking place in outlying communities and people are able to get to and from their communities with ease. Katherine is a desirable place to visit for people in outlying communities and tourists alike. Local services work well together.
That sounds like Utopia to me. That really sounds like Utopia, but it was highlighted that people in Katherine wanted to see that happen. As I said, it was from 69 people and they included people from the long grass. The will is there; it is just finding the wheels to get it going.
I have some difficulty with alcohol plans of management in that I believe that there should be an overall Territory plan of management, which should apply to Alice Springs, Tennant Creek, Katherine and the Top End, particularly the main towns, and then it needs to be fleshed out for whatever suits a particular town, but there needs to be guidelines that are unique to the four areas where the most problems are.
It is easier to have alcohol plans of management in the smaller communities where their demographics are slightly different, but the problems that are caused in the main regional areas and in the city of Darwin are all the same. It would be more beneficial and quicker to implement. The Alcohol Plan of Management for Katherine has taken years to get to this stage. It took a lot of work and the benefit of it was that local people did get to understand the issues a lot better than if it had been given to them as a blanket. I believe there needs to be an over-arching plan of management for the whole of the Territory that can be expanded in each of those communities and regional areas to suit them, to just tweak it a bit if it does not suit them. The plan of management tends to be a little ad hoc so I would like to see an overall one.
I am a great fan of dry towns. I did not used to be, but I had a look at what they were doing in Port Augusta in September last year because I had been following that with interest and spoke to the Mayor and CEO at the Port Augusta City Council. I have talked before in this House about the difference the dry town legislation made to Port Augusta. I am sure representatives from government have been there to see it for themselves. I have not as yet seen the strategic survey that the Port Augusta City Council was doing. They were going to do an assessment, and not just an ad hoc one of chatting to people in the street to see how it went. People in the street are happy with it, but they wanted to have statistical data and that should be compiled now. It was going to happen around May or June this year, and that should be completed now.
It will be interesting to see that it has not just pushed the problem over the hill, which is one of the concerns that every one of us had in relation to dry towns. I am a great believer in a whole town being dry. I did not support Katherine’s three streets because that was just pushing out to the fourth street or Railway Terrace or somewhere else. I am very glad that the minister has had some input there and has suggested that the town becomes completely dry because it sends a clearer message to anyone who would like to come into the town to abuse alcohol. It is very clear: sorry, no alcohol anywhere in Katherine. That makes it easier.
People have said they think it is an infringement of their rights that they cannot drink. I have said: ‘Where in the heck did you used to drink in the main street before?’ They did not. They can have their drink at home or a friend’s place; it is not infringing on their rights at all. It just means that we can tidy up the town a whole lot more.
We need the restricted hours of trading. There will be some opposition to it, obviously, by the retailers. I understand it has to happen and I support it. I would rather see an ID card system implemented across the Territory. It is a great initiative to control those people who should not be buying alcohol. It is much easier to identify them with an ID system. I have only seen one commercial program demonstrated but I know they can be tweaked to suit each town.
Minister, you also mentioned the Living with Alcohol program. I am a great believer in it. I know it worked and was working quite well. I was looking through the proposed Living with Alcohol framework for action. It goes to show you how much alcohol impacts on our society. The goal was the Northern Territory government endorsing a national policy aim to minimise alcohol-related harm across Australia. Indicators of alcohol-related harm showed levels and the costs suffered by the Territory were unacceptably high. I am not quite sure what date this has on it, minister:
- Our initial goal was therefore to progressively reduce the levels of measurable alcohol-related harm which we experience so that by the year 2000, they are no greater than the national level. Thereafter, we aim to decrease it below that level to lead the nation rather than follow.
We have not met that, have we? I am not putting the blame on anyone, but we have to try to turn that around. The proposal said:
- A Living with Alcohol Fund: from now to the year 2000, through the creation of a special fund, the Northern Territory government will commit funds of some $10m over a full year to implement the plan, the amount to be raised through the Living with Alcohol levy on liquor containing more than 3% alcohol. The level of the fund then will be reassessed.
What I am getting at is that was $10m to implement the Living with Alcohol plan. The Northern Territory government put $10m into petrol sniffing, so $10m would certainly go a long way. It will be more than that now, of course, because that would have been nearly 10 years ago, but when you look at the amount of harm, the economic cost to look after people who are suffering from alcohol abuse, it is far more than it would cost us to implement some programs to address it. I definitely would like to see a program very similar to that. Maybe it can be tweaked to suit, minister.
The accords, minister. Many hotels have accords now. I believe Katherine has an accord, and it has been quite interesting because I have never been able to lay my hands on it. I would like to know what is in it. I do not know if that is available through your office, but I would like to see what is in it because there were a couple of members of clubs, or particularly one member of a club, who is quite anti-anything that is being proposed as far as the alcohol legislation goes.
I asked a question in Question Time today about sobering-up shelters. The minister said there is a proposal to replace the sobering-up shelter in Katherine. Are there any plans for a detox centre in Katherine, minister? With rehabilitation, I know that the Venndale block is being re-jigged with programs that are suitable, and, I hope, for alcohol rehabilitation. I know I talk incessantly about it, but I will be speaking again about the rehabilitation services and the opportunities for culturally-sensitive rehabilitation of indigenous alcoholics at Dillinya, which is run by Sheila Millar. It is a healing centre, and I need to talk to you further about that because it does have good value.
Minister, I thank you for your first statement. We are going to talk incessantly in the years to come about alcohol policy; hopefully we can work together to make a difference to the abuse of alcohol in the Northern Territory.
Debate adjourned.
SPECIAL ADJOURNMENT
Mr HENDERSON (Leader of Government Business): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I move that the Assembly at its rising adjourn until Tuesday, 27 November 2007 at 10 am or such time and/or date as may be set by the Speaker, pursuant to sessional order.
Motion agreed to.
ADJOURNMENT
Mr HENDERSON (Leader of Government Business): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I move that the Assembly do now adjourn.
Mr WOOD (Nelson): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I am sure the alcohol reform statement will be out of date by the time we next get to it again because there is an act coming along for us to discuss.
I want to talk about planning. There has been a lot of debate about planning, especially in relation to what is happening with development around Darwin. For those who know a little of the history of Darwin, the region has, until now, been controlled by the Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan, a plan that was developed some years ago under the previous government but, to some extent, still retained in the Northern Territory Planning Scheme.
I was recently surprised by a number of things: (1) the government’s view that Glyde Point would not be heavy industrial; (2) Berrimah Farm will be opened up for housing; (3) that Middle Arm would basically replace the industry proposed for Glyde Point. All these things go against the NT Planning Scheme. They also go against the Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan, which is still a relevant document.
My concerns are that whilst the government has every right to change the NT Planning Scheme, there should at least be some reasoned debate about the suitability of land this government is deciding to use for various types of development.
Government wants to use the land at Berrimah Farm as land suitable for housing. I suggest to people who say: ‘It is a great idea, our government thought of it, it is fantastic’ that they look at the zoning map. The zoning map for the area, which is part of the NT Planning Scheme, clearly identifies much of this land as general industry, light industry or future development. It has a main road, Tiger Brennan Drive, passing through it. In the case of the aerial farm land, which the Treasurer was speaking about the other day and asking the Commonwealth to release, if you look at the structure plan, you will find that is earmarked for a power and railway corridor which would head out past the Robertson Barracks.
I do not know whether the government has simply pulled this out of a hat and said: ‘It is a great idea because we need to open up more land’. There is, however, a notion called ‘sustainable development’. There would be nothing worse than to have a housing estate surrounded by industrial land and the prison. You will find that either of two things will happen: people will not want to live there because they are too close to industrial development, or industry will have to move out because of constraints on the use of the land.
If you look at places such as Berrimah where there are transport- and oil-associated industries, such as BHP, which is no longer its name, but there are industries that operate 24 hours a day. You have overhead lighting, industrial yards, noise and smell.
I would have thought it would be sensible to look at developing residential areas as far away from industrial land as possible. If you look at this plan, you will see that the Hidden Valley Motor Sports site is in a valley and that same valley feeds in to where the proposal for residential land would be. It is not very far away. By situating housing in such an area, you are making a decision which will come back to haunt either the people who live there or the people who work in the industrial areas. The government should reconsider its decision and put it out for community comment. I am not opposed to the government opening up more land for housing. That is exactly what is needed, but the Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan and the Northern Territory Planning Scheme clearly identify Weddell as the next area for residential land.
Some people say: ‘What is your vision?’ That has been asked of me a few times on a couple of issues. My vision is to try to retain the beauty of the harbour where possible. That is what is different about Darwin; we have a harbour that is basically in its natural state. We have a harbour that people use for fishing and for tourism operations, the Larrakia people use it for hunting, yet to some extent we seem intent on destroying the Middle Arm section of our harbour when we really have not had sufficient debate about whether we can use other land.
I received a letter today from the Chief Minister because I asked in the Estimates Committee about the suitability of the Howard Peninsula for general industry. The Chief Minister said that the land to the north and east of the peninsula adjoining Howard River is in private hands and for community purposes, which is a reference to two small leases; one belonging to Billy Boustead, and one belonging to Dixie who runs the Shoal Bay Hire Service. They are only very small blocks of land for a specific purpose and industry, unless it is right on their back door, is not going to affect those two portions of land. In fact, by bringing industry in there, it is more than likely those two blocks might have official road access. At present, neither block has official road access. The former Minister for Lands and Housing knows how we tried to get some maintenance done on the road to Shoal Bay to the boat hire service and that failed because basically the minister said there is no road there. By putting some development in there, I imagine infrastructure such as roads would accompany it, and that would help those two private landowners.
Regarding the rest of this area that I asked about on the Howard River Peninsula, the Chief Minister said it abuts Department of Defence land. Yes, but that is an enormous piece of land. It already has its own buffers. The letter says:
- Much of the area, particularly old extractive industry land immediately to the east of Robertson Barracks, has been the subject of ongoing negotiations with the Department of Defence.
That is exactly right, but for some reason, we are not even talking about that area. It is the old quarry area. The area past that is what we call the extractive mining area, not the quarrying area, and it has plenty of room. The last thing the Chief Minister said is that the area contains large tracts of low lying land subject to storm surge and Wet Season inundation.
Again, this parcel of land, the Howard Peninsula, is quite large. If it is subject to inundation, so is the whole of Middle Arm because it is surrounded by the sea. That is not a fair indication of that parcel of land. I suggest it is looked at again. With the right buffers and protection of the two creeks that run through that area, it could be used for future industrial land instead of the middle of the harbour.
There is a lot of talk about having development in the middle of the harbour because it is close to residential land and the port. The Howard Peninsula is actually closer to residential land and the port. The Howard Peninsula is about half the distance to the port and the residential land is Palmerston. You would drive up the extension of Temple Terrace, which is proposed in the maps, and you would be there. You would not be taking lots of heavy vehicles through the township, which is what will happen to Middle Arm. Middle Arm uses the Elrundie Road to get from the Middle Arm Peninsula through to the port, which means there will be all sorts of freight passing through the outskirts of Palmerston.
There has been much discussion about whether there should be a transfer station at Marlow Lagoon because of the rubbish and that sort of material, but there will a lot more heavy industry moving through the area between Marlow and the suburbs of Palmerston if Middle Arm Peninsula goes ahead whereas if there was development at Howard Peninsula, heavy traffic through a residential area would be avoided.
Of course, the other option is Berrimah Farm. The government has said it is going to be housing. I was talking to a person who owns land at the port, and he said it makes commonsense for that to be industrial. It is right next to the port. It is straight into the port so transport costs are lower and you are not going through residential land. It is already partially developed as industrial. It has the prison nearby and has approaches to the airport over some of the area.
We are not short of residential land. We have all of Weddell; there is heaps of land at Weddell. I do not know why we all of a sudden make this left-hand turn halfway along our planning route. We have the Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan. There are some things in there that I occasionally disagree with, like damming the rivers, but the idea behind the Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan was to have some discrete townships around the harbour. Something that changed that, of course, was the Kenbi land claim, but it has not stopped it all together.
We were going to have Darwin, Palmerston, Weddell and there were, I think, two more towns to go up on the Cox Peninsula. The government is talking about developing Cox Peninsula. I went to a Property Council meeting just recently and the CEO of the Department, Rod Applegate, had a paper of which I have a copy. It says: Weddell or Cox Peninsula?
What are we doing? Are we getting rid of Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan or are we sticking with it? Are we using planning because it is a good idea at the time? I hope we do not start to engage in ad hoc planning. There has been a lot of work go into the development of Darwin Harbour. There has been a lot of work go into development of the whole region. Once we start to make major changes, I have to ask the government: are you working on an ad hoc basis for development or are we going to have a chance to review the Darwin Regional Land Use Structure Plan so we can all participate in how we think Darwin should develop?
Maybe this government is changing its mind, but I have always been under the impression that Darwin will be separated from Palmerston by a mixture of industrial, conservation, residential and Defence land, and the next area of Weddell would be surrounded by rural residential land. As you went further around, the same thing so we would not have a sprawling metropolis like the big cities; we have something akin to Canberra where you have the three cities developed with rural areas in between. In this case, the centrepiece of the development of Darwin will be Darwin Harbour.
When I mention Weddell every now and then, I do not get any bites. It makes me wonder if the government has given up on Weddell. If it has not, what is the time line? All of a sudden we have introduced Berrimah Farm. Why? Why would you want to put a school and a shopping centre there when you know that we are going to develop Weddell as a fully fledged city?
I get the impression of jigsaw planning. Here is a spot that looks good; we will fill that up. I hope that we look at planning in more depth with more vision. I hope we heed the notion of sustainable development because development we undertake now that stops something else or costs future generations money is certainly not good development. In the case of Berrimah Farm, we really have to think again. It is not a huge amount of land when you look at how much the prison takes out, and when you put Tiger Brennan Drive through the bottom of it. Its use is fairly limited. Considering most of it is already industrial and close to the port, you would have thought that was the obvious thing.
Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, the government has the power to do what it likes. It has started to make major changes to the Litchfield Planning Concept, as it has done with Glyde Point and Middle Arm. It has made changes to the port that go against the Northern Territory Planning Scheme, and if you have a look at it, you will see what has been designated. You could pick up a copy of the zonings for an idea of what is already in existence. I say to the government: do not go down this path. If you think it is the right way to go, at least put it out for community consultation. There has been no community consultation, no meetings, nothing. At least that would be a start in making sure the decisions about this area are the right decisions. Certainly ad hoc, five-minute decisions about land that has question marks about it is not the way to go if we believe in sustainable development.
Mr VATSKALIS (Casuarina): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I would like to speak of a wonderful senior citizen in my electorate, Mrs Mona Adams, who recently celebrated her 80th birthday with a huge party at the Italian Club. I was disappointed not to be there because I was away. Mona celebrated at her party with her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and many friends.
Mrs Adams was born Mona Poline Adams in Darwin on 28 September 1927, to parents Basilia and Victor Lee Ying. Her great-grandfather, Jack Leonard, was a white American, and great-grandmother Annie a Jawoyn woman. Her grandmother, Polina, was raised in the Methodist Mission at the time when mixed race children were taken away from their natural Aboriginal mothers. Polina married a Filipino, Valeriano Angeles, and they raised their two children in Darwin.
Mona’s father was a Chinese, Thomas Lee Ying, who immigrated to Australia when he was a young boy. Mona grew up as a toddler in the streets of Chinatown in Cavenagh Street where her father’s family owned a general store. Mona left school at Grade 5 so that she could help earn money for the family. She did domestic duties and helped her mum doing other people’s laundry. Her mother, Basilia, after divorcing her first husband, married Joseph Cardona, and Mona’s brothers and sisters were Peter, Dolores, Primo, Martin, Thomasa and Margaret Cardona.
In January 1942, just weeks before the Japanese bombed Darwin, the whole family was evacuated to Cairns. It was there that she met and married Charles Adams. Charles was born at Thursday Island, and his maternal ancestors were the Yadhaykenu people of Cape York and Prince of Wales in the Torres Strait. His father was from Batavia in Indonesia.
Mona and Charles returned to Darwin in 1949 where they have since lived and raised their 13 children. The family lived at Parap Camp, sharing one hut with the rest of Mona’s family before being allocated their own hut in Luxton Street, next door to Christodoulou’s store.
Mona wanted her children to be educated to have a better future. The only way for that to happen was for them to be educated and get decent jobs. She also provided a home for the many young men from Thursday Island who worked on the pearling luggers at the time and became their ‘Sis’ or ‘Mum’.
She suffered the heartache of losing her daughter Sarina at aged 13 months, but battled on to support her other 12 children.
In later years, when Parap Camp was demolished, the family moved to Rapid Creek. When most of her children had left school and married, she got a job at Darwin Hospital at Larrakeyah to help bring in some money. After Cyclone Tracy, they were evacuated to Cairns. As her four youngest children settled into school, and her husband found it difficult to get a job, Mona went to work at the Cairns Base Hospital to support her family.
When the family came back to Darwin, they moved to a new house in the suburb of Tiwi, and Mona worked for Royal Darwin Hospital where she remained until she retired. In retirement, she looked after her grandchildren, which gave her children the opportunity to better themselves and achieve their goals. She did share quality time with her husband and her mum, before she suffered more heartache when her mum was killed in a car accident. Being the battler that she is, she soldiered on, caring, sharing and loving all her family, including her brothers and sisters and their families.
She and Charles became even closer and attended senior citizens’ activities and functions. They had a wide circle of friends, many of whom helped them celebrate their Golden Wedding anniversary in July 1994. A year later, Charles was diagnosed with cancer and Mona became his nurse, caring for him until he passed away in December 1995. Since then, she has tried to be mother and father to her children, being there for them in their times of struggle and sharing their achievements.
She rarely says a bad word about anyone, and wants to know everyone. She is quick to give everyone a hug or a kiss. Mona is a battler who has contributed greatly to the development of Darwin through her family, employment and helping others. Her greatest achievement has been to teach her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren discipline, courtesy and respect for themselves and others.
There is so much discussion today about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children not being educated. Mona’s children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren have university degrees and include two doctors, and Master of Education, teachers and business owners. Many of them have also been successful in sport. It was through her struggles to discipline and educate her children, and instilling in them the need for education, that they have achieved their goals. Happy birthday, Mona. She is a great person, a great woman in Tiwi and a very good friend.
Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I would like now to speak of people who received a 2007 Pride of Australia Award. One of them, Susan Bartlett, is my constituent and has been in the Territory for the past 39 years. She is married to a now retired police officer, Paul, and they have three children. Now they have three grandchildren, with another two on the way.
Their lives have revolved around family and friends, work, church and community. Mateship begins with the family, and she and Paul have learnt what it means to stick together when the going gets tough. She has worked as a Special Needs Support Officer at Sanderson High School for the past 21 years, and enjoys working with students with special needs in assisting them to access the curriculum and enter the workforce.
Receiving this award caused her to reflect on what it is that she has done to deserve it, and she can honestly say she has done nothing extraordinary. Throughout her life, she has lived by the motto that in the end, all that matters is how you have loved others, not how much material wealth you have acquired. Mother Teresa inspired her with her Mission of Mercy to the poorest of the poor. She identifies with the marginalised, lonely and isolated in our communities, and has helped wherever she can to alleviate their suffering.
Some years ago, she coordinated Darwin Community Care, providing meals, food and clothing for hundreds of Darwin families who were struggling to make ends meet. Since then, she has been supporting people who have been sick and lonely in their homes, doing what she can to help. Currently, she is the Regional Coordinator for Operation Christmas Child across the Territory. Sanderson High School is the collection centre for shoe box gifts, and hundreds of gifts are pouring in for this program at the moment. Last year, 7 600 000 gifts were distributed to children throughout the globe in areas where children are suffering from war and famine. The families of the Northern Territory are the most extravagant givers and she counts it a privilege to work for this organisation in Darwin.
Sue hopes that, in the future, she can continue to work with children who are disabled, and plans to work in China with these precious children through the International China Concern.
She dedicated this award to her dad, Les, who passed away this year from lung cancer. Her dad taught her what it means to be a mate, a loyal friend and someone who is willing to go that extra mile. Her dad always put others first and was always there for his neighbours, friends, and family. He was a staunch union leader who worked tirelessly to gain the working conditions that we enjoy today. Her dad suffered greatly through World War II, and he suffered from alcoholism. He knew what it was to lose his family and friends to this disease.
Mateship is a fantastic Australian word that stands for support and friendship, hope and caring, compassion and willingness to be there for others. Sue is honoured to receive the award in order to honour those who are in need of a mate. You are our nation’s hero and you are the Pride of Australia. I congratulate Sue, who well deserves this award in the category of Mateship.
Another person who is a caring person is Christine Bach. Christine Bach came to Australia for the first time in 1993. She had just finished her Masters Degree in Germany and her dad decided to give her this trip as a present. She spent five wonderful weeks travelling around Australia, including Darwin, and had a very memorable time in Kakadu. She fell in love with the Top End and its environment and decided to come back. The same year, she spent two months in Kakadu as a volunteer, where she had an unforgettable time working with rangers and scientists exploring this beautiful country. While in Darwin, she inquired at the then NTU about PhD scholarships and decided to apply. The incredible happened and she won the scholarship.
Even her two months in Kakadu had not prepared her for what she encountered in her first Wet Season of field work in the monsoon rainforests. The completely inexperienced German spent many hours digging cars and quad bikes out of bog holes and being eaten by mossies and leeches. A close encounter with the crocodile in Black Jungle Reserve was an appropriate finale to her field work.
She graduated with a PhD in October 1998, and was offered a position at the Department of Lands, Mining and Environment to develop a monitoring system for the Mary River floodplains, incorporating remote sensing technology. It was, again, a very challenging task and involved many weeks out on the floodplains establishing monitoring sites and collecting data. She loved the helicopter and airboat rides. Every time she talked to her friends and family in Germany, they were blown away by her stories and pictures.
Even though she loved the ecological field work and being out bush, she felt that she did not want to continue a research career in which one spent endless hours in front of computers analysing data and being pressured into writing publications. She followed her desire to work with people and became a house parent at Kormilda College. She loved working with the kids. That was when she decided to do yet more study to become a teacher. Luckily, she received a scholarship for her Graduate Diploma and finished it at the end of 2004.
She spent her first year at Kormilda College and then changed to Dripstone High School. This last year has been very challenging, with all the changes to middle schools and suddenly she found herself teaching a subject that she was not trained in and knew very little about. Christine says that even though teaching is the most exhausting and demanding job she ever had, she loves being a teacher and she has never regretted her decision to change careers.
Ever since she was a child, she has been passionate about animals and the environment. She became involved in animal welfare and environmental organisations when she was a teenager and student in Germany. After she had finished her PhD, she started to get involved in working with the Environment Centre, Landcare and RSPCA. She also very much enjoyed her role as a volunteer in four Arafura Games. In the 2001 games, she was part of the NT Athletics team and competed in javelin. She is now looking forward to the 2009 games in her role as Athletics Official and Ambassador for the Information Booth.
In 2003, she began to visit Tracy Aged Care Nursing Home with her dog Daisy. These visits have given her great pleasure and joy, and it is very rewarding to think that Christine and Daisy might brighten someone’s day just a little. Christine works at Dripstone with my wife. I know her personally and I congratulate her on her Pride of Australia Award for 2007.
Another person who is a teacher is Judith O’Hearn, nee Green, OAM. She is a primary school teacher, long-term public servant and a local woman, a Territorian, born and bred. She was a classroom teacher at Moil Primary School. She was also at the Sport Health and Physical Education School in the late 1990s and early 2000. She taught disability sports in schools, worked with teachers to run programs for all kids, including those with a disability, a tireless worker developing broad community understanding of people with a disability. She worked for a period of time in local government overseeing the Water Safety Advisory Council and contributed to the development of the Northern Territory government’s current water safety plan.
She made a submission to the recent Northern Territory Government Disability Review and currently is a Career Advisor at Darwin High School. She has a physical disability because she had an operation which left her paraplegic and with a severe hearing loss as well. She is married and has a young son who is now two-and-a-half years old. She received a Pride of Australia 2007 Award. Judith is a very good swimmer and her career highlights include:
2000 Paralympic Swimming Team;
2000 Paralympic Games Gold Medallist in 100m breaststroke S6 class;
2000 Paralympic Games, came 8th in the 400m freestyle S7 class;
in 2001, went to the Australian Open National Swimming titles;
in May 2001, achieved the World Record in the SB6 class 50m breaststroke at the Arafura Games;
in June 2001 in Phoenix, Arizona, she broke the SB6 class 200m breaststroke world record by 8 seconds;
in December 2001, was in the Australian team that travelled to the World Championships in Argentina. She won gold in the 100m breaststroke in the SB6 class;
she held the world record for the 50m and 200m breaststroke and the third fastest 100m time in the SB6 class in 2002;
she received an NTIS scholarship from 1999 to 2002;
she received the Sportsperson of the Year Award in 1999;
she received the International Athlete of the Year Award in 2000;
she received the International Athlete of the Year Individual Sport 2001 and 2002 Northern Territory Institute of Sport Awards; and
in 2001 on Australia Day, she was awarded the Order of Australia Medal for services to sport as a gold medallist at the Paralympic Games in Sydney in 2000.
Congratulations to Judith, Christine and Sue for these fantastic achievements. We are really proud to know you and really proud that you are Territorians.
Aussie Racing Cars is Australia’s newest, affordable and exciting racing category and is fast becoming the most recognisable form of motor sport in the country. The huge fields of these immaculate little cars competing at high speed on all the well-known race circuits across five states of Australia is creating thrills and excitement the likes of which have never been witnessed before. The small size of the cars enables thrilling, four-wide braking, overtaking and slipstreaming duels that have become synonymous with the appeal of Aussie Racing Cars and represents a new era of excitement and colour into the hugely popular motor sport arena.
It is the first time in the history of Australian motor sport that an entire category of identical cars has been developed with such success and on such a mammoth scale. The philosophy of the Aussie Racing Cars is to assure that it is managed for the maximum benefit and enjoyment of all competitors and, to this end, it has been hugely successful in that it affords a level of camaraderie from rookie drivers through to those with major experience under their belt, which is not always the case in other racing categories.
AVESCO, which is V8 Supercars Australia, are well aware of the impressive growth and public acceptance of the Aussie Racing Car category as it is starting to take the motoring world by storm and it is becoming clear that the category was designed to become a major attraction at big events. In recognising their newfound popularity, Aussie Racing Cars are a support class to the V8 Supercars at most race tracks around Australia.
The Aussie Racing Car combines current racing technology and performance in a one design class where all cars are mechanically identical with strict rules in place to maintain that position. Four different body styles cater for all tastes: classic Ford and Holden body style for the nostalgia buffs and Falcon and Commodore body styles, which replicate the V8 Supercars, and all in approximately half size.
Cars are constructed on a purpose-built steel tubular space frame chassis with integral roll cage construction designed and approved to stringent engineering specifications. The light weight composite body is a faithfully designed image of its full-size counterpart, featuring opening doors, boot and lift-off front section, powered by a 1.2 litre 125 BHP twin cam 16 valve engine that revs to 11 500 revs per minute. The performance is, I am told, exhilarating.
The 450 kg all-up weight provides an incredible power to weight ratio that allows the little machine to rocket to a speed of well in excess of 200 km/h. The lap times achieved are staggering. At Oran Park, for example, the cars lap within six seconds of a V8 Supercar.
Eighteen-year old racing enthusiast from Alice Springs Bradley Connor is one who has enthusiastically embraced this sport and he is the only Northern Territory Aussie Racing Car entrant. Bradley started Aussie Car Racing in March this year when he debuted at the Clipsal in Adelaide. He then competed in Melbourne during the Grand Prix, at Sandown in September and looks forward to competing in the Lexmark Indy 300 on the Gold Coast from 18, which is today, to 21 October. I am sure all members join with me in wishing Bradley the best of luck.
Bradley Connor comes from a family steeped in racing. He is the grandson of pioneering horse trainer Nev Connor, a man well known and highly regarded in Alice Springs. He is the son of Tony and Cathy Connor who are, apart from being lovely people, are very successful business people in their own right. I know that they have provided ongoing support to Bradley.
Bradley has a long history of involvement in motor sports, having started racing go karts on dirt tracks at seven years of age. Bradley has competed in the Northern Territory, South Australian and Western Australian events over the past 10 years. He has won numerous title events and competes in three classes of go Kart: KT Twins; 125cc Lights; and KT Lights. The transition from dirt to bitumen proved to be a steep learning curve for Bradley. In the first few races in which he participated, in a field of 48 to 50 cars, he usually finished mid-field. However, at a recent race at Oran Park, he proudly finished in 15th position, and in September at the Sandown 500 round in Victoria, he finished 10th. Bradley attributes his Sandown success to good advice from experienced drivers on the circuit and a cool head on race day. Well done, Bradley.
Having completed Year 12 at St Philip’s College in 2006, Bradley is currently on his gap year. In 2008, he has been accepted at Adelaide University to study a Bachelor of Commerce. Bradley hopes to continue racing and combine his study and passion for motor sports as the events are usually staged on weekends. Aussie Car Races are televised on a dedicated half-hour program on Fox Sport after each meeting and Aussie Cars are also televised on Asian and European TV.
Mr Deputy Speaker, for those who have cable TV, you might see some Aussie car racing and recognise Alice Springs enthusiast Bradley Connor. Good luck to Bradley with his studies in 2008. I am sure all members of the Northern Territory parliament will join with me in wishing him every success in the Lexmark Indy meet today and over the next few days.
I take this opportunity of tabling for the permanent Parliamentary Record of the Northern Territory a photograph of Bradley’s car. It is written, Bradley Connor, Number 54. This is the car to watch, Mr Acting Deputy Speaker and members. This is the car that we will see on our television screens with Alice Springs young man Bradley Connor in it.
Leave granted.
Ms CARNEY: Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I now wish to raise some other matters which have arisen in my electorate in recent times. One is the ongoing problem of people, unfortunately, not being able to get through to the police station. We do not for a moment say that the police are not doing their job, however what we do say is that more police need to be in Alice Springs to assist with the demands.
A constituent came to my office recently. I cannot be 100% certain, but I believe she used the 131 number. She advised my electorate officer she was on hold for 45 minutes, and her husband tried on a previous occasion on the same day or night, and he was apparently on hold for 30 minutes. This is not a satisfactory situation.
The week before last, I was advised of another Alice Springs resident who dialled 000. He tells me that the phone rang out. He tells me that he kept trying and eventually the number, which I believe was 000, although on a subsequent call, he may have tried the 131 number, he was diverted to Katherine. He was pretty cranky. I have outlined just a couple of his attempts to phone.
The bottom line is this: if the people of Alice Springs cannot get through to the police, then that is an almighty problem for government, and I will come back to that. It is important, for the sake of the Parliamentary Record, to go back to this issue when it was raised at the parliamentary sittings in Alice Springs in April this year. Members will recall that, over the period of two Question Times, the issue of the police communications system came up at some length. On 18 April, I asked a question about a man called Harry Osborne, who rang the local police station six or seven times shortly before that date and could not get through. He received some media attention as a result. He was furious. He rang my home late at night.
When we asked that question of the Minister for Police, the minister gave us a bit of a lecture on what telephone numbers people should use. He, that is the former Police minister, minister Burns, somewhat patronisingly said there was a 131 444 number which directs people through Telstra. He also told people to ring the 000 number in cases of emergency. He indicated people should use those numbers. He said:
- I encourage the people of Alice Springs to ring that number.
- That will get you right into the heart of the Alice Springs Police Station without having to go through that general number. There is a target there, as I said, of 20 seconds. It is important for the opposition to be promoting that 131 444 number to the public of Alice Springs so that they can have that sort of access to the very part of Alice Springs Police Station where they want to go.
- A member of my staff then rang the number you say will get the police; that is, 131 444. That was done at 9.52 am. That call was not answered. The people of Alice Springs have not been able to get through …
- Minister, why do you direct me and the people of Alice Springs to numbers that will not be answered? Are you prepared to give us your number so that they can ring you in the middle of the night?
- Madam Speaker, I stand squarely behind the 131 444 number …
On 19 April, I directed a question to the Chief Minister. I thought it was outrageous then, and I still think it is now, in typical fashion, the Chief Minister handballed to the police. Instead of taking responsibility for this issue herself, she referred to Superintendent Sean Parnell. She said that there was a technical issue, and said:
- That equipment is due for delivery in the next six to eight weeks. The equipment in Alice Springs which, evidently - as I understand, I am not technical - is not as contemporary as the equipment in Darwin, will be up to scratch. It has been an unedifying experience over the last 24 hours to realise that the system was not working.
- I say to the residents of Alice Springs that there is a commitment from the police that, in six to eight weeks, that call line will be up to scratch and it will be operating as well as the one in Darwin.
It is completely unsatisfactory that the people of Alice Springs have been placed in this position. They love their police. We all love the policemen and women in Alice Springs. Even they are saying, as I am advised by some of the people who eventually get through: ‘There is not much we can do’. This is not a police problem; it is a government problem. For the Chief Minister to say:
- That equipment is due for delivery in the next six to eight weeks …
on 19 April this year raises the question as to whether it has actually arrived. I formally invite the Chief Minister to respond either to me or to the people of Alice Springs. Please tell us if it has arrived. If it has arrived, what are the problems? If she cannot outline what the problems are, will she find out? Will the Chief Minister ensure that the people of Alice Springs can get through to the police when they need their assistance?
I said on commercial radio today I was likely to raise this matter in parliament. I have done so. It is on the Parliamentary Record. None of us want to see this situation continue. It is a government responsibility. We have heard relatively little from the new Minister for Police. I would expect that when she is in Alice Springs next week, she should make some inquiries. She should know already, but since it appears that she did not have much of an idea in April, it is unlikely that she will have much of an idea now. She should make some inquiries and find out what the story is. She should then issue a media release, if she is courageous enough to do so, saying to the people of Alice Springs: ‘I can assure you, people of Alice Springs, that you can, with confidence, ring the numbers we, as the government, want you to ring and you will get through’.
This is 2007 in a significantly big community as far as the Northern Territory goes. They have every right to pick up the phone and get the police. That is my challenge to Chief Minister as Minister for Police. I sincerely invite her to take it up. I do not want to be here in the next sitting talking about how the problem has not been resolved.
Mr BURKE (Brennan): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, tonight I speak in relation to the Building Better Hospitals statement made by the Minister for Health earlier in the sittings. I welcomed the statement.
Territorians deserve to be kept up to date through regular reports on what is happening in the various government departments. Health is one of the most important government service delivery areas. The opposition asks, on many occasions and sometimes with great theatrics: what the government has done with the extra money from GST? Well, the total for the Territory budget is $3.3bn. The minister advised in his speech that $838m of it is spent in the health sector, a 73% increase in health spending since Labor came to government. As the minister said in his statement, there have been an extra 115 medical and 318 nursing full-time equivalent positions since 2001.
Health is a curious sector inasmuch as improvements in treatments often mean an increase in costs of those treatments. The price of health care is rising all the time. The recent report by state and territory Health ministers dated June 2007 called Caring For Our Health? A report card on the Australian government’s performance on health care says at page 22 to 23:
- In 1998 the Australian government negotiated, with the states and territories, a new round of funding for public hospital services. There was a disagreement over figures used to adjust funding for annual price rises. The parties agreed to use an independent arbiter.
The arbiter recommended that, as prices in health care rise faster than inflation, the Australian government’s contribution to public hospital funding should be increased by 0.5% more than the inflation rate.
The report at page 23 also mentions that the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare is of the view that health prices should be adjusted by a figure higher than the inflation rate. The report continues:
- Instead, the Australian government has adjusted funding by a figure lower than the inflation rate. The result is that it has contributed far less to Australian public hospitals than the arbiter recommended, and than the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare would expect.
The report quantifies the shortfall as at $1.1bn per year. The Northern Territory, with a budget of about $3.3bn, has a 73% increase in spending on Health and Community Services since 2001. The Australian government reduced its spending.
The present Australian government is the greatest revenue collector of any Australian government we have had. It has increased the amount it takes from Australians while reducing the services it provides. The opposition can howl about lower personal tax rates but the Australian government collects more revenue than any Australian government. Forget the GST. That is minuscule compared with the revenue the Australian government collects and reserves for itself. It is not collecting the money through company tax. There is only one group of people it is getting the revenue from and that group is the Australian taxpayer regardless of so-called personal income tax reduction.
The NT government’s efforts to improve the NT health system have been recognised by the Australian government’s report this year, State of our Public Hospitals. As the Minister for Health said, it recognises that we are able to provide 3.6 beds per 1000 of population against a national average of 2.6. Further, we are spending $1407 per person per year compared with a national average of $665.
All our public hospitals are accredited. Only three jurisdictions can make this claim and it is a fantastic claim to be able to make. I am well aware of the work that is required across all areas of a health facility to gain accreditation. It is not just standards of medical and nursing care that are scrutinised. Administration processes, food services, hygiene procedures, security and many others are brought under the accreditation team’s microscope. I was pleased to hear the minister speak about an urgent review of safety and security services at Royal Darwin Hospital.
Most of us probably do not naturally think of the important service that security officers provide at a hospital, yet so much could not be done without these officers. A hospital is a concentration of a considerable number of people in a relatively small area, and those people are often dealing with extreme personal stresses, dealing with a loved one who is sick in hospital or themselves sick and in hospital. Security officers at our hospitals do a great job ensuring smooth day-to-day running.
I would also like to recognise those employed as cleaners at the hospitals, those in the catering areas, those involved in ensuring all the surgical and other equipment is sterilised, those employed in the physical classifications. They are all people vital to our hospitals gaining and maintaining accreditation and the comfort of patients, just as much as medical and nursing staff.
We need to bear in mind that increases in patient population require not only increases in nurses and medical practitioners, surgeons, specialists and the like; it requires that numbers of the cleaners and those providing food services and sterilisation of equipment also be monitored and increased as demand dictates.
The people in these areas are often long-term employees at the hospitals so I ask the minister to ensure that he and his department are appropriately recognising the massive contributions of these individuals in all these areas, many of whom have worked 10, 15 and even 20 years with the one hospital.
The minister mentioned the huge workload of the Accident and Emergency unit. It is a phenomenal workload. I used to have to go to the Accident and Emergency at Royal Darwin Hospital when I was a kid. Now that I have children of my own, I find I have occasion to go back. Accident and Emergency has always been busy. Whichever public hospital you go to, Accident and Emergency is a whirlwind of activity. You always know that you are in for a wait when you attend the Accident and Emergency department. This is not a complaint, but recognition that it is an area that is always busy. Nurses and doctors put in a fantastic effort, often under very trying circumstances.
One of the reasons for the busyness of the Accident and Emergency department is the reducing number of general practitioners who are bulkbilling. Medicare is a federal government responsibility. It is an area the federal government has been removing funds from since it came to power. All over the country, people are experiencing this removal of resources from Medicare. Other than perhaps a couple of the extremely large metropolitan capital cities, people are finding it harder and harder to attend bulkbilling general practitioners.
The member for Blain often wants to hit up the Territory government about lack of GP services in Palmerston, but he does nothing to attack the federal government and it is the federal government that has responsibility for this area. He refused to sign the petition that I helped organise calling on the federal government to commit resources to after-hours GP services in Palmerston.
Just recently, Dave Tollner and the Howard government finally announced that they would fund an after-hours GP service in Palmerston. At the time I was running the petition calling for after-hours GP services to go to the Senate with Trish Crossin, and the member for Drysdale was also involved, I wrote to the federal minister asking him to look favourably on an application from any Palmerston practice for the federal government’s round-the-clock funding. What did the federal government do in response? It made one award of funding, and that was to a practice in Darwin, not Palmerston.
I also wrote to Julia Gillard as Shadow Minster for Health, and this was before she was Deputy Leader of the federal ALP and when Kim Beazley was still its leader. A media release soon issued from Julia Gillard’s office committing to funding an after-hours GP clinic in Palmerston. This was not an election commitment. No election was in the winds at that stage. It was recognition that the federal government has responsibility for this area and it met that recognised need. The CLP and the federal Coalition are still in catch up mode.
I was impressed that when Kevin Rudd recently came to Darwin, he made a point of visiting Palmerston. I note Howard has not yet made it past the Berrimah Line. Kevin Rudd has announced a $2bn Commonwealth commitment to health across the country. He has also spoken of working in conjunction with the states and territories. When Kevin Rudd was in Palmerston, he announced a $10m fund for a Palmerston super clinic to provide 24 hour GP services. It was a welcome announcement, an acknowledgement that if the Labor Party wins government at the federal level, it will stop cost shifting to the states and territories and accept the obligation that all federal governments prior to Howard’s have always accepted.
Such an initiative will take pressure off the Accident and Emergency Department at Royal Darwin Hospital. Palmerston families will be able to attend the local clinic instead of driving to Royal Darwin Hospital. I certainly hope that federal Labor wins the next election. Partisan politics aside, Labor will simply deliver more for Palmerston; $10m for a super clinic, resources for another childcare facility in Palmerston, and priority for such a facility, and funding for the Tiger Brennan bypass. The priority that Labor has provided to initiatives in Palmerston is way out in front compared with the Howard government’s lacklustre concern for Palmerston families.
We all know that emergency services are different from GP services. The member for Drysdale and I have run a number of community forums in Palmerston asking what Palmerston residents would like to see. Without fail, emergency health services located in Palmerston was raised at every meeting. Some referred to a mini-hospital, others called it an annexe of Royal Darwin Hospital. I say to the minister that I do not know what the proper name is, but the call from Palmerston residents is clear. They want a facility in Palmerston that removes the need to get to RDH as the only option in an emergency situation. People recognised that a full service large hospital, while desirable, was probably not justifiable at this stage of the development of Palmerston and the rural area. However, the development of an annexe or a mini-hospital, whatever you want to call it, would further relieve pressure from Royal Darwin Hospital’s Accident and Emergency.
The people of Palmerston have raised this as a genuine concern. I believe rural area residents would also use such a facility and would support the call. As a representative of Palmerston, I ask that the Minister for Health, the Chief Minister, other members of Cabinet and my colleagues give this matter serious consideration and I hope you will look upon this request from the people of Palmerston favourably. Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I commend the Minister for Health’s statement to the Assembly.
In closing, I acknowledge the great work that His Honour Ted Egan and Ms Nerys Evans have made to the Territory. It has been a massive contribution.
Ms ANDERSON (Macdonnell): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, today I recognise the community of Santa Teresa and its achievements in winning the Army Community Division of Defence Jobs AFL final at TIO Stadium. The win elevated Santa Teresa above 14 community teams across the Northern Territory, all competing for a chance to play at the MCG. They won all seven games with an unbeaten record.
Football is a mighty sport of the Territory. In many respects, it is the primary thread of our social fabric and it connects us across the diversity of all Territorians. It crosses geographical and cultural boundaries that extend from the islands in the north to the heart of Australia in the south, and all the towns, communities and cities in between.
Some teams in the Territory consist of players who hardly know each other, whilst others consist of players who have known each other their whole lives. A number of teams in urban and regional areas are built on a long and proud tradition spanning many generations. They are teams which have produced national talent, and a number of Territorians have played a substantial part in AFL grand final wins.
Football is an important part of promoting one’s community. In places such as Alice Springs, cars pass through with their team’s colours painted on the sides, with flags and other promotions on full display. Big games bring whole familles and old friends together. In many communities and for many people, football represents the conduit to healthy and active living. It leads to recognition of a person’s ability and commitment and demonstrates to individuals how hard work and determination can produce valued results.
Football also demonstrates how teams work together. It teaches people that relationships are important, and that looking out for one another is an important part of who we are. What is learnt on the football field can be applied outside the oval in workplace environments, in families and general social relationships. This is how football is such an important platform for so many people.
The local Aboriginal Community Police Officer, Philip Ellis, coaches the young Santa Teresa team. Many people in this Chamber recognise Mr Ellis as the voice and feature of a Territory advertisement campaign calling on visitors to Alice Springs to respect the alcohol restrictions in town. The Northern Territory News records the enormity of the win as the expression on Mr Ellis’ face at the point of realising a secured win. It is testament to a very proud community, a community which deserves praise and credit for its achievements.
Mr Ellis acknowledges why the Santa Teresa team performed so well. That is that they trained at 3 pm each day in Central Australia so they could prepare for the Darwin heat. Together, the team recognised that they needed to train hard and that they could do so with innovative ideas such as this. They recognised that with their determination and belief in themselves, each other and their community, they could train hard and prepare for a big game up north, some 1500 km away.
In particular, I congratulate Travis Ellis, the recipient of the Army Courage Award for the Most Courageous Player of the carnival, and Shane Mullerdad, the recipient of the Army Best Player Award for the most goals kicked throughout the carnival.
The trip to Melbourne will be an event remembered by all who attended for a very long time. It is a trip well deserved. It is with much pride and honour that I convey to this Assembly my congratulations to Santa Teresa, Coach Philip Ellis, all the players in the team and their families, and the community for the efforts and achievements of winning this important grand final. I hope Santa Teresa really shines at the MCG.
This evening, I want to put on the Parliamentary Record concerns we have with ANZAC Hill High School. I have spoken to the Education minister about this, and I thank him for his briefing. The minister is going to meet with the teachers on Monday, and I applaud you for that, minister. There are concerns. If we are doing things to schools, we need to be open and transparent and ensure we talk to the teachers, parents and the community of Alice Springs to ensure they know the rumours they are hearing are not true. Our teachers are important people; they are there to teach our children and not to stress out over whether the school is going to be closed down. The job of these teachers is to teach our children, not worry about closure of their school. As a government, we must allay all these fears. If it is scaremongering, we must assure the people of Alice Springs this will not happen. In Question Time, the member for Braitling raised this issue.
Alice Springs is an important service hub to many communities in my electorate. It is the economic hub of the region, and we love our little town, a town which connects all our families, black and white. We also love our sports. Lots of our children go to ANZAC Hill High School from communities, town camps and from rural blocks in Alice Springs. The member for Stuart’s sons go to that school.
Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, the teachers and staff of the school are highly committed. They deserve our support and I respect their right to know what is going on. These teachers are passionate about teaching students from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds and they are about tackling those additional challenges that face schools like ANZAC Hill High School. The teachers and staff of the school are proud of their achievements in creating pathways to employment and further training. These teachers are committed to this task and are confident in the potential of all young people who go to ANZAC Hill.
I want to make sure that if things are happening, as a community in Alice Springs, parents, teachers, we need to be informed so that Alice Springs can be confident that these things will not happen to them and that we have teachers actually teaching our kids and not worrying about schools being closed down.
Ms MARTIN (Fannie Bay): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, long-time Territorian and Fannie Bay constituent, Annette Millikins, recently turned 70. I take this opportunity to wish her a very happy birthday.
Annette was born in Dublin but wanted to come to Australia even as a very young girl. She arrived in Perth in 1963 and soon after moved to the Territory, and has been here ever since. Annette and her husband, Trevor, lived and worked around remote communities in the Territory. Annette was a social worker working in the area of child protection for over 30 years. Today, Annette remains active in the community, advocating for seniors accommodation, volunteering for St Vincent de Paul and participating in groups like the Parap Residents Association and the Fannie Bay History and Heritage Society.
To celebrate her birthday, Annette’s daughter, Maryclaire, hosted a garden tea party, inviting many of Annette’s friends along. It was supposed to be a surprise, but unfortunately someone spilled the beans. Sadly, I was interstate at the time and unable to attend, but it was a lovely afternoon according to reports, with no shortage of cakes, sandwiches, punch, tea and coffee. The best china and linen napkins came out for what was a good old-fashioned afternoon tea. Annette said she felt like a bride.
Those friends and family who celebrated with Annette included her daughter, Maryclaire; son, John and his wife, Clare, and their children, Christopher, Alice and Emily; Sabra Budden was responsible for making much of the wonderful food; Louise McKenna; Pat Fitzgerald; Mavis, Wayne and Brenda Lindon; Mary Woodrow; Dottie and Les Penhall; Brock and Jane Simon; Julie Baxter; Mary and Norm Fraser, along with Kate and her partner Chris; Philip Roberts and Justine Mickle; Juliet Murphy, and Gerri George. Happy birthday, Annette; it sounds like a wonderful afternoon.
Last month was Water Safety Month in the Territory and this year’s theme was Be Water Safety Wise. The first event was held at Leanyer Recreation Park on 1 September and I was pleased to officially launch Water Safety Month. More than 30 events and activities were conducted across Darwin, Katherine, Tennant and Alice Springs and, as you can imagine, there was plenty for children to do. I take this opportunity to announce the winners of three of the Territory-wide competitions.
The colouring competition attracted close to 500 entries. The winner of the five and over section was seven-year-old Alasdair McGregor from Wulagi; well done, Alasdair. There were 15 runner-ups which give you an idea of the high quality of the entries. Congratulations to Sophee Clark, Eden Gadil, Ruby Josif, Ayla McGavin, Robyn Matthews, Kimmie Henderson, Gabrielle Killalea, Brianna, Johanna, Vanni Ferreira, Tinnicka Alum, Allana Neave, Xavier, Dean Fry and Alyssa Mahony.
First place in the under five competition went to four-year-old Skye Whaleboat from Alawa and there were also 15 runners-up in this section. Well done to Kianne, Thomas Shepherd, Tiana Gaffney, Kaitlyn Anderson, James Ford, Jacob Brookhouse, Daniel Kuskie, Lucy ter Bogt, Isabella Humphreys, Ella Claydon, Danielle Clark, Peter Cairns, Gypsy Lay, Audrey Fryar and Jessie Quinell.
The Water Safety Wise CD competition saw some amazing karaoke water safety videos submitted by schools across the Territory. First place went to Peppimenarti where the teacher was Bree Whitford. The runners-up were Kiana School where Paul Gallagher was teaching, Sadadeen Primary School with teacher, Jo Holland; and Saint Philip’s College with teacher, Leigh Gorman.
Finally, the winner of the Water Safety Creek competition, which involved kids getting lots of stamps from different stalls and answering some questions about water safety, was Esther Cox, who is nine, and lives in Ludmilla. The runners-up were Kihana Leslie from Malak and Pakhorn Stubbin from Virginia. Well done to all of you.
The success Water Safety Month enjoyed would not have been possible without its sponsors. On behalf of us all, many thanks to the Royal Life Saving Society, that is Floss Roberts, Surf Life Saving NT, Tony and Julie Snelling, Darwin Harbour Fishing Charters, Karen and Rob Marchant, C-Max Cinema, Andrew Cripps, Ten Litchfield, Tim, McDonalds, Chris Horne, Darwin Snack Foods, Carlos Martins, Goldfish Bowl, Peter Brasher, Darwin City Council John Banks and Graham Oats, and Amateur Fishermen’s Association Chris Makepeace.
Finally this evening, the Top End Orienteers are an enthusiastic and energetic group of people who get their kicks by finding their way around unfamiliar territory using a map and compass. Participants select their own route around the course, and the aim is to find each of the controls or check points. It is a sport that combines good athletic ability with clear thinking skills. While it can be competitive with world championship events, it does not have to be. Some people like to take their time around the route, enjoying the bush scenery while they walk. People of all ages and fitness levels can do it. Sometimes they even hold bike events where competitors make their way around on two wheels. Another variation is Rogaining, which is long distance cross-country navigating day and night.
Top End Orienteers is a Darwin group and they hold one or two events each month in bush land areas around Darwin on short, medium and long courses. Luckily, most events avoid the harsh sun, starting at 7am and finishing by 11am. Top End Orienteers also hold social events as well as come-and-try events. This year, they held one on Australian Day at the Botanic Garden for newcomers to the sport. My Electorate Officer and her partner gave it a go and, by all accounts, it was a real test of their relationship. Luckily, it did not end their engagement; they have married since that event. I think they vowed never partner each other in another orienteering.
Other orienteering locations include Holmes Jungle, East Point, Manton Dam and Casuarina. I acknowledge the dedicated members of Top End Orienteers, long time loyalists and newcomers alike, and in particular those who play active role in keeping the club going. The President is Russell Willis; Secretary, Dave Rolland; Treasurer, Barbara O’Brien; newsletter editor, Susi Bertei and her family, a special mention of Kelly and young Oscar; the Mapping Officer is Jon Potter; Public Officer, Simon Saunders; Equipment Officer, Rose Baartz; Publicity Officer, Fiona Murphy; Results and Web Administrator, Loretta Hagan; Fundraising Officer, Nathan Gleed; Volunteer Coordinator, Tracey Campbell; Catering Coordinator, Leona Sullivan; and General Committee Member, John Baker. It is a great team and I congratulate them on their efforts.
Ms LAWRIE (Karama): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, tonight I congratulate Malak School, which is in the running for a national award. It is not the most usual award; it is an award that recognises the parents’ contribution to a school community. Having successfully marked its 25th birthday last year, the celebrations just keep coming for Malak Primary School.
The parents have been recognised for their efforts in working with staff and the community to create a vibrant, progressive school culture and rewarding learning experiences with the school’s council named the best in the Northern Territory in the first annual Australian Women’s Weekly Paradise Foods P and C Awards. This is breaking news because this information is embargoed, but I did get special permission from the school to acknowledge their achievements in the sitting this week.
The school’s industrious parents will receive a trophy and $2000 in prize money. They are in the running for the prestigious national title. The winner will be selected from eight state and territory finalists, and will be announced in a special ceremony in Sydney on Wednesday, 23 January next year. The winner collects a further $10 000.
I am advised that close to 200 entries were received for the awards, which aim to recognise and reward Australia’s hard-working parents and citizens associations backed by teams of parents who raised funds, help out in class, coach sports, advise principals and run canteens and after-school care. The panel of judges said Malak Primary School stood out amongst Northern Territory entrants because of the lengths parents, in concert with staff and the wider community, go to ensuring their children have the best education possible. Malak was described as:
- The parents were able to demonstrate the difference that can be made when the school community bands together to secure a strong future for its students.
They were described as having a strong sense of ownership, belonging and pride in the school from parents and teachers alike who are clearly united in making it the best it can be. Numerous hours have gone into planning and executing a wide range of fundraising events, from quiz nights, raffles, sausage sizzles, to a night under the stars family event, a spelling bee, and, of course, the fantastic 25th anniversary dinner.
The parents regularly roll up their sleeves to attend and help out with a wide variety of school activities, including sports days, interschool competitions, the fabulous Wakakirri National Story Festival, and the Eisteddfod. The wider community also gets involved, along with parliamentarians. The member for Sanderson and I got a nod for our assistance, and the Australian Defence Force visits the school regularly for assemblies and special events.
The parents committee started an innovative project to have healthy breakfasts through a special nutrition project called Fantastic Fruit and Veggie Friday, which encourages sound eating habits and after-school sporting activities to get students moving for fitness and fun. I have participated in these Fantastic Fruit and Veggie Fridays. I go to school assembly on Friday mornings, and I will be at Malak Primary School tomorrow for my regular school awards, and I am always pleased by the healthy food and environment.
I acknowledge the dedication and hard work of the School Council President. Chris Kelly is one of the hardest working, dedicated and innovative school chairs I have come across. I have to say, in terms of fund raising and innovative ideas for the school community, Donna Smith is an absolute stand out and deserves congratulations for the efforts she goes to for the school. I thank the school Patron, Henry Yap, the owner of Malak Shopping Centre. He contributes $5000 to the school each year. He is a fantastic Patron for the school. He turns up, and I know he gets particular pleasure at the annual Christmas school concert in handing out book prizes and the like to the students, so my congratulations to Henry Yap.
The Principal, Paul Nyhuis, is doing a fantastic job. He has followed on fromRussell Legg. He has to be one of the most outstanding principals in any public school we have in the Territory. I say that with absolute confidence; he is a stand out principal. We are very lucky to have him in our public system, having had experience in the private system at Kormilda College, and extensive middle schools experience in the United States. He is a local boy, born and raised in Darwin, and he is an absolute asset to our education system.
As I said, I will be at Malak School tomorrow to present literacy awards. I congratulate Jared McMillan, Adrian Hudson, Joshua O’Brien and Marina Tataglia on achieving literacy awards for the last two months. I have to say, Marina’s parents, the Tataglias, are very stalwarts of the school as well.
Congratulations, Malak School. You are up there, you are going to Sydney to take out that national prize, but you have won the top school in the Northern Territory for having the school’s hardest working group of parents. What a fantastic tribute.
Karama School end of term Endeavour Awards are always amazing. Karama School has such a strong ethos of understanding culture and the multicultural diversity of the school, have a hard-working staff and council and a fantastic Principal in Margaret Fenbury. The kids come from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds, but predominantly a lower one, and those kids get in there and take every advantage of their fine education at Karama School. Congratulations to this term’s Endeavour Award winners, to Jaden Allthrop, Jessica Murdoch, Joyce Thomas and Ebony Philpot. Well done; these are really well earned Endeavour Awards, and I hope you enjoy your vouchers.
As I said, we have a multicultural community in Karama and Malak and it is typified by the hub we have at Malak Shopping Centre. We have the Multicultural Council of the Northern Territory there, the broadcasters and recently we have seen a revitalisation of space at Malak Shopping Centre. Browns Mart has gone to the community with their Community Arts Program. Congratulations to Bong Ramilo. He is a fantastic man with a great understanding that arts is about people and the community. He does not see arts as top-down; he sees arts as developing from community up. They intend to establish an Internet caf there.
Browns Mart is reaching out to the community at the Chambers Crescent Theatre they are creating. They are encouraging the African migrants of the suburb to use the centre and to showcase their culture, which is a fantastic thing. I am really looking forward to the African contributions. I missed the community celebration of the arts opening at Malak, but I was reliably informed by the Arts minister that the African performances were outstanding. I was overseas at the time and could not get there. Everyone I have spoken to who attended that day said it was such an exciting and fun day. Congratulations to our proud African migrants who are really creating a community hub at Malak.
It stands in stark contrast to the despicable attitude of the federal government about African migrants. I am absolutely privileged and honoured to have worked alongside the African migrant families of Malak and Karama. Of course, the Sudanese have been singled out despicably by Kevin Andrews and the federal government. The Sudanese have to be some of the most hard-working and gentle people I have met. They are stalwarts of our community already in each of the schools where the kids are attending. They are harmonious and the families are involving themselves in the broader community. I feel very privileged to be a local member with so many African migrants living in the electorate. They are hard workers.
When Buslink said they were having trouble finding bus drivers, I said: ‘Have you tried the African migrants? You cannot go past them for their sheer work ethic and their reliability and loyalty to their employers’. Buslink took on my suggestion. I put them in contact with Frederica Gaskell at Anglicare. She runs a great settlement program for the African migrants. Frederica helped them source a few potential candidates. We now have two African bus drivers with careers established at Buslink. Buslink managers, the Hannons, have said: ‘Thank you for that. We think they are fantastic’. Kevin Andrews, you could not be more wrong if you tried, and you are a despicable and disgraceful parliamentarian.
Tonight, I want to acknowledge the very hard-working Islamic community. They are going to be celebrating at the mosque this weekend. It will be a fantastic Saturday night celebration at the Islamic Centre, for their very special Festival of Eid. They have a new executive committee, which has just been elected, so congratulations. I know many of the people on this committee and I find them to be insightful, well-educated, hard-working, humble and harmonious members of our community. I am privileged to be able to work for them and provide any assistance. At times, they use my electorate office for their newsletter requirements. I am very humbled by the fantastic friendships I have been able to form with many members of the Islamic community.
Congratulations to the new President, Ishfaq Haider, a tremendous man who is highly-educated. Anwar Lamaya is Vice-President, and is another fantastic constituent. Karama takes out the three top places on the Islamic executive. The Secretary, also a Karama constituent, is Mohammad Jillur Rahman, a very gentle, lovely man who has some exceptionally well-educated sons; they are achieving astounding feats at university. Agus Sudjoko is the Treasurer from Anula. Nazar Awan is the Coordinator of Government Grants and Projects from Nakara, so I am sure the Minister for Multicultural Affairs will be meeting Nazar on many occasions. Misbah Aman is the Coordinator of Youth, Sport and Government Grants and Projects and Education and is another Karama constituent. Umi Citra Rasmi is Coordinator of Women’s Issues and Khalid Nadeem is the Sports and Social Activities person.
Qumrunnessa Poppy Mustafa is a lovely, very gentle lady. I always feel happy when I see her. She is Coordinator of Women’s Issues and Multicultural Issues. Dawood Mohammed is Coordinator of the Food Bazaar and is Assistant Treasurer. Another of my constituents, Mazhar Khan Azan is the Sports Coordinator and is very well-known in sporting spheres. The Public Officer is Mohammad Jillur Rahman who is, as I said, a fantastic, gentle man. I feel very proud to know him. The Imam is Adama Konda, who is a fantastic Imam. He is very dedicated to teaching the children who respond so positively to the Imam. He is a very interesting man.
The Trustees are Dr Waqar Ahmad, Muhammad Nur Wibisono and Ashraf Qurashi. Congratulations to the Islamic Society of the Northern Territory which has a new Executive Committee. There is a lot of talents and knowledge on that committee.
I look forward to the Eid celebrations on Saturday at the Mosque. They are always very good. I have been watching with absolute pleasure and delight the current construction program going on at the Islamic Centre where they are building the very important wash facilities. The community has been striving for these for years. The Islamic Centre has been very grateful for the financial assistance provided by the Northern Territory government.
Every time they got closer to realising their dream, some hurdle would get in the way and they come back to the Territory government and we would find another way of helping them through the next hurdle. We were so close at one stage and, with the rain last Wet Season, the roof over the women’s prayer area gave way and they came to the government and urgently needed to repair the roof over the women’s prayer area, but if they used the funds they had, they would not have been able to proceed with their building project for which they finally had the approvals. At the time, I was Multicultural Affairs minister and I said: ‘I will give you the funding. Repair the roof straightaway. It is an urgent repair program and you will get the funding to make up. So proceed with the construction’. So it is good to see those wash facilities, which they really need. It is an important cultural practice after deaths in the Islamic community.
Congratulations to the incoming Executive Committee. I look forward to socialising with you as I have done over the years and to recognising what upstanding members of our society you are. As a community, they work very closely. Of course, many of our African migrants are Muslims, and I am sure that other Muslims in the community who have gone through a lot of hurt and angst through the nasty responses from the Howard government will be supporting our African migrants through the hard times at present.
We are fortunate; we are a diverse multicultural society. I feel incredibly privileged to be a representative of parliament from an area that is in the most multicultural diverse area in terms of people living in harmony in Malak and Karama. We are humbled by how hard-working and dedicated but how passionate they are as Territorians and Australians. It is a period of shame as a nation when you have your federal government saying terrible things about our migrants. I am glad that as a Territory parliament we have come together this week and united in support of the African Community. I am sure the Muslim community, the Islamic Centre, will be able to support our African migrants through this time of hardship and hurt.
Mrs MILLER (Katherine): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, yesterday the Chief Minister launched a pretty scathing attack on me in this House, and the Leader of the Opposition, about the arrangements of bringing gas onshore by ConocoPhillips. I will read from Hansard some of the things she said:
- There was no arrangement, as the member for Katherine is claiming publicly. This is gross ignorance by the member for Katherine who does not understand what was happening at the time.
…
… but it demonstrates myths and fancifulness from the CLP that do not serve them well now.
They are just some of the things that she said. Government members were critical and quite scathing yesterday. She said that there were no contracts that the CLP could refer to, and that I and the Leader of the Opposition had essentially misled the House. That is absolute rubbish.
During the negotiations to bring gas onshore, there was an attempt by Phillips, Shell and Woodside, as they were at the time, to share facilities. That is mainly the pipeline infrastructure to bring gas onshore. I can prove they were going to bring gas onshore for domestic purposes because they said so in their own PowerPoint presentation at the time. ‘Gas onshore’ included $1.1bn for pipelines for the domestic market. These pipes were going to go across the nation and this was really nation-building stuff. I have A Vision for Regional Natural Gas Development in the Timor Sea, which has the logos of Phillips, Woodside and Shell on the bottom and is dated 27 November 2000. Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I seek leave to table the document.
Leave granted.
Mrs MILLER: Mr Jamie Walls, the consortium spokesman, said at the time that there was an intention to bring gas onshore even if Shell decided to produce Greater Sunrise gas at sea because, as he said, there is a market for gas onshore and they would like to tap into that. The contractual arrangement between those partners was always negotiated with the supply of domestic gas in mind because the CLP knew that the Amadeus Basin was going to be empty in a few years.
When ConocoPhillips realised their Japanese customer, they decided to go it alone with Bayu-Undan and satisfy that customer with Shell and Woodside as their partners. Greater Sunrise was then shelved. All documentation at the time in all negotiations anticipated that there would be gas for domestic consumption.
I am going to read into Hansard a media release by former Chief Minister the Honourable Denis Burke dated 30 November 2000. It is headed Gas Agreement Paves Way For Darwin Project.
- Darwin and the Territory is poised to become Australia’s next major gas province following today’s announcement by Woodside and Phillips of an agreement of Timor Sea natural gas cooperation, Chief Minister Denis Burke said today.
I will not read all of it, but I am going to pick some things from it that highlight that this was a plan:
- ‘Cheaper energy costs for Territorians, 2500 jobs for Territorians, 8000 jobs nationally, a total investment of $13m, $760m a year increase in exports, new industry for the Northern Territory - that is what this agreement means’, Chief Minister Denis Burke said.
‘It represents a world focus on a new gas province and billions of dollars in investments in Australia and, importantly, the Territory.
‘I have committed the Northern Territory’s development to cheaper energy and competitive energy costs.
‘This is the third piece in the jigsaw puzzle …”
- ‘Territorians have got the railway. Our port will open new trade routes and now gas, which will be a major attraction to businesses that will be associated with the port and the railway …
The new Chief Minister’s job was easy: simply sign off on a deal which secured domestic gas. It is my understanding that ConocoPhillips was prepared to provide gas, but only at the commercial rate, which was much more than initially anticipated under the collapsed arrangement. Government failed to purchase at the new price, deciding to tough it out. Now the bill is going to be $140m. How much gas could you buy for that sort of money?
I never suggested that the contract had been finalised because it had not been. When I said ‘deal’, all that was left to negotiate was how much. The ALP government did not secure the deal to the point that ConocoPhilips now provides no gas to the Northern Territory.
I want to also read into Hansard what Denis Burke said on 17 August 2004 in this House when he was in opposition. We were talking about bringing gas onshore. He said:
- The Chief Minister of the Northern Territory was given, essentially, a project that was all but sealed. All the efforts of the Northern Territory government had been done; all of the monies were committed … You had one job to achieve; that is, make sure ConocoPhillips pay the tiller-man. It was time for ConocoPhillips to give something back to Territorians - something back in terms of a chair at Charles Darwin University, in helping the skill development for Territorians over that Bayu-Undan plant, and to also deliver on the expectations that they have raised with Territorians and, certainly, with previous CLP governments. That is critical to getting Bayu-Undan gas onshore – critical … It was at the forefront of every discussion: ‘We have to get the contract with Power and Water’. The one thing this Labor government had to achieve was to get some gas at a cheap price so that Territorians could see some real relief in the gas that was generated, in either capacity and/or capacity and price … the reality Territorians need to know about that whole Bayu-Undan gas project is that, apart from the construction phase, they have not even got enough gas for domestic use to work their own cigarette lighter.
Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I wanted to place this on the record. They are facts. I am happy to table this document, which is the Timor Sea Natural Gas Regional Cooperation of Resource Holders. This also has Philips, Woodside and Shell logos at the bottom and is dated 27 November 2000. I seek leave to table this document, which states: ‘Onshore pipelines $1.1bn’.
Leave granted.
Mrs MILLER: Thank you. I hope that the Chief Minister and those sitting opposite feel a bit ashamed of trying to make such a scandalous statement as they did yesterday, saying that we had no idea of what we were talking about because, believe me, we do.
Mr WARREN (Goyder): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, Litchfield Christian School in Humpty Doo in my electorate was recently selected as the national winner of a Health and Literacy Competition for schools run by the National Prescribing Service Limited, called Common Colds need Common Sense, not Antibiotics. With their story titled Don’t Spread It, the Year 6 and 7 students won $3000 worth of books for the library and a chance to publish their story. Their submission was judged the best out of 56 entries by a panel of three judges. The judges included children’s author, Lee Fox, whose book Ella Kazoo will not brush her hair was short-listed for the Children’s Book Council 2007 Book of the Year award. Ten black and white outlines of Harvey the Wombat; the campaign mascot, were provided to the students by the competition organisers.
With the help of the school librarian, Mrs Chris Kleefsman and the tireless Mrs Myers, the 10 students put on their creative caps. They had a great time working together over five afternoons, and came up with their prize-winning story about how Harvey the Wombat stops the spread of his cold at school. The result was truly Territorian, with a cartoon croc in sunglasses asking Harvey if he shouldn’t be taking antibiotics, and promptly being told no by Harvey. There was also a green tree frog anxiously asking not to be sneezed on. This was a very inventive and original children’s story, thanks to the NPS schools competition. The Year 6 and 7 class is now busy reaping their rewards and shopping online for all their new books.
To view this imaginative story for yourself, and to share the hygiene message of the campaign with your children, you can check out the website of the National Prescribing Service at www.nps.org.au, and click on the schools tab. It is well worth the effort of checking this website out. I hope to be able to display a copy of the published book in my office in due course.
In August, I advised the House that the Berry Springs Primary School would be celebrating its 30th birthday in September. Unfortunately, because of parliamentary commitments, I had to miss the start of celebrations at the morning assembly, but I did manage to taste the birthday cake, which I can report was really scrumptious. I attended the evening school dance, and checked out the photographic memorabilia display in the library. It was an outstanding collection, which showed the growth of the school from its beginning as a demountable to the current modern facility able to cater for over 300 students.
To help preserve this historic collection, the minister for Education, the Honourable Paul Henderson, has agreed to frame a photographic collage as a birthday gift to the school. This will be displayed in the school reception area for visitors to enjoy for years to come
I am very proud to now outline another success story for Taminmin High School at Humpty Doo. I recently told this parliament about the sensational musical production called Cold As Ice. It was such a wonderful achievement that the school decided to offer performing arts as a subject for 2008. Not only does the school community excel in the area of performing arts, but they are also expanding their highly regarded elite academic excellence program from 2008. This program is designed for those students who want to be challenged to the limits of their scholastic abilities and who may later want to enrol in more prestigious courses at university. Entry to Taminmin High’s Leading Learner program is not easy. It involves academic performance and national online testing, but the outcome is the establishment of a group of students who are both capable of and committed to learning. It is great news that the program is being expanded to encompass Years 7 to 10 students.
I am proud to advise the House about the achievement of another great advance in services in the Humpty Doo area. In early September, I was very pleased to attend the opening, with my colleague the Education minister, the Honourable Paul Henderson, and the Treasurer, the Honourable Syd Stirling, of the new all-purpose special education annexe at the Humpty Doo Primary School. This was an election commitment by both the NT and federal governments which has been delivered for Humpty Doo at a total cost of some $800 000. This new comprehensively equipped facility replaces a substandard donga which was overcrowded and lacked some basic facilities. The new annexe includes two classrooms, a special ablution facility with mobile lifting gear for students in wheelchairs, a quiet teaching room, and a covered walkway to the rest of the school. It also has all the latest education equipment such as an electronic whiteboard.
Local contractor Xristos Anictomatis built the annexe, and the workmanship is a credit to him and his team. The building surrounds are already landscaped and there is a very pleasant learning environment and a very special part of the school. The joy on the faces of the students and staff is what it is all about.
I recently wrote to congratulate Karl Powell and Jo Cahill on the selection of their business, Coach Charters Australia, as the 2007 Northern Territory winner in the Tourism category of the Australian Small Business Champion Awards. These awards are jointly sponsored by the Australian government to acknowledge the drive and commitment required by hard-working small business operators to succeed. It is particularly pleasing to me that a small business operator in my electorate of Goyder has been selected to receive this prestigious award. Passion and dedication are words I have heard attributed to Karl and Jo. After several years as a driver of McCafferty’s coaches and later as Operations Manager in the Red Centre, Karl started the business. With his industry knowledge and experience, he saw an opportunity for a niche market targeted at providing transport services to the Defence industry. With Jo at his side as a more than capable Office Manager, this local business has grown to seven large coaches, three smaller coaches and a 12-seat commuter.
Karl and Jo will soon be heading off to represent the Territory at the National Champion Awards for Australian Small Business in November, and I wish them every success.
Another great bus story in the rural area is that of Shuker Bus Service. Twenty-three years ago, Bev and Hek Shuker started a bus service for the rural area with just three buses. They persevered through those early years and showed faith in the rural area to the stage where their fleet has grown to 23 buses this year. Bev and Hek are now planning to retire to Darwin River and, consequently, they recently sold their business and fleet to Buslink.
Their son Jason Shuker, who has been involved with the business since he was a young boy, will stay on with Buslink to manage their rural services for Humpty Doo. I am pleased to advise the House that Jason has been very helpful to me in the past, when I achieved another election commitment to improve the bus service to the rural area. Jason was able to give me some very good advice on efficient routes and suitable sites for bus shelters recently installed as a result of my lobbying for the Herbert, Humpty Doo and Bees Creek areas.
Ms McCARTHY (Arnhem): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, I recently travelled the Roper River region in my electorate to touch base with people on a number of issues largely centred on the federal intervention. One of the big areas of concern is, naturally, education. In my travels from Minyerri to Urapunga and Ngukurr, these are the discussions that I am having with the communities, schools, school staff, the students and with their families.
The Martin Labor government is firmly committed to improving education for all children across the Northern Territory. We are proud of our record in seeing the Aboriginal graduates from our remote communities. It is not enough, though, and we know this. Certainly, my colleagues in the Martin Labor government know that and, as the member for Arnhem, I have been a passionate advocate on behalf of the 16 schools in my electorate. In discussions with the Education minister, I have been able to go through some of the areas that are of concern, especially now that we have the changes to welfare in our communities as a result of the federal intervention.
The federal intervention is quarantining monies, 50% for all families on welfare and 100% for those families whose children do not attend school for three days of a school term. The process is that documents of attendance find their way to Centrelink and my understanding is that staff at Centrelink then correspond the attendance of children to the money that they allocate to their carers. That is where the staff of Centrelink will no doubt make the connection as to which children are at school and how many days they have missed school.
I am yet to understand what happens if a child misses more than three days of schooling and how long the 100% of quarantining of parents’ monies endures. I am deeply concerned about that. Governments at every level have to be aware of the impacts on the social and emotional wellbeing of all the people in these remote regions who are affected by the federal intervention.
I have been canvassing the thoughts of students and teachers not only in Ngukurr but also on Groote Eylandt. I have raised some of the issues with the Education minister. I had the opportunity of meeting with staff at Angurugu in an informal environment and we talked about how they could see the impact quarantining of payments would on the increase of students to their classrooms. It is a real expectation in some communities in Arnhem that the number of students at the schools will increase, and there are estimates given that numbers could double. There are questions about the children who are not attending school, who are not even on the roll but who are of school age. At what levels are these children? We may have children who need help adjusting to school life, who will need help with adjusting to the routine of daily school life. How do those children then sit beside students who have continually gone to school?
These are the issues that I am talking about with families and with staff in particular. I am concerned about the staff. For those people who have lived on communities or have had a lot of interaction with communities will know that the policies of any government can have an impact on a community in such a way where I would not want to see families blame teachers in our schools as to why they are not getting their funding of 100% welfare. These are real concerns. I know for a fact that unless the information is clear, unless families have an opportunity to direct the way the future goes for them and be involved and included in the process, they will get left on the outside. I know for a fact that some parents may be wondering why a teacher is not marking their child at school and there could be a roll-on effect of the families blaming the teaching. These are discussions that I have been having with communities, staff and students because there needs to be informed discussion going on continually.
In Ngukurr, I would certainly like to commend the school council president Robin Rogers for his dedication to the children of Ngukurr and to Pat Farrell and others on the school council for their enduring advocacy to improve the conditions of Ngukurr School. I would like to go through the issues raised with me at Ngukurr School, issues that I have had chance to raise with the Education Minister on a number of occasions. There are 315 enrolled in the school, and there is an estimated 130 extra children expected next year. The library is used to run a Transition and Special Education class, so that virtually means there is no library at Ngukurr School. A computer lab was made into a classroom in 2005, so it means there is no IT room. The preschool is overcrowded, there are not enough tables and chairs, and next year, 58 preschoolers will be enrolled and that would be an increase of 11 on this year. There are predictions that there will be a need for two Transition classes.
In the middle years, they tell me that there will be 42 primary students moving into middle school, and 59 Year 9 students. Staff feel that very few of the 42 students currently in Years 10, 11 and 12 intend leaving school next year. So there could be close to 100 students housed in three classrooms in the middle years.
These are very important issues that the Education minister is aware of and we have been discussing. On top of the concerns that we have now, knowing that there will be an estimated extra 130 children next year, we do have to move very quickly. I am conscious of the Roper and Wilton Rivers cutting off transport to Ngukurr in the Wet Season. I am also conscious that we only have nine weeks of school left of this term.
It is with some delight that our government is committed to providing Ngukurr School with three extra classrooms and build two new houses for next year. I commend absolutely the Education Minister for moving on this. The classrooms will be relocated from another school in the Arnhem electorate, Wugularr. At Wugularr, a new school is being built to be ready for 2008, and again that is a clear indication of the Martin Labor government’s commitment to education in the bush and to capital infrastructure.
This is good news for Ngukurr to have these classrooms for the school to kick off the new year. It is part of the Martin government’s Closing the Gap capital initiatives in remote communities. Our government has also brought forwards funds for classrooms and housing in other Arnhem communities. I put on the record my absolute delight with my colleagues in Cabinet and government in moving on these issues. They have obviously heard the concerns that I have been raising over the last few months.
Alyangula will have two extra houses, Millingimbi CEC an extra classroom, Ramingining CEC an extra classroom and two new houses, Minyerri School an extra new house, and, as I said, Ngukurr, which is perhaps one of the areas of most concern to me of the 16 schools I have, will get three extra classrooms and two new houses. The classrooms are set to be in place to kick off first term 2008. I will most definitely be providing reports back to Education Minister and indeed to this House as to how education issues are going at Ngukurr.
Speaking of Ngukurr, I would like to mention the Grand Final win of Ngukurr Bulldogs against the Arnhem Crows in the Katherine AFL Grand Final recently. It was one those Grand Finals that was pretty difficult because I had two teams from my electorate playing. Previously, it was the Arnhem Crows and Lajamanu and I think it was those teams the year before, so when I presented the trophy a couple of years ago, it was to Lajamanu so I knew on this occasion, I would most definitely be giving it to a community in my electorate.
I had the pleasure of presenting the winning trophy to the Bulldogs Captain, Roland Lansen. The final score was Ngukurr 17.8.110 to the Crows 11.8.74. After the presentation of the season’s Best and Fairest Medal to Crows Captain Relton Roberts, the National Anthem was sung by Theresa Harris. Neville Andrews was recognised as the Best on Ground for the grand final, with a medal presented by Douglas Kelly.
I take this opportunity to pay tribute to the other teams in the Katherine AFL League: Northern Warlpiri, Kalano, Katherine, Jilkminggan, Tindal, Gurindji and Minyerri. Obviously, without these teams who travel hundreds of kilometres each weekend just to compete, there would be no Katherine AFL, and most certainly, the drive of coaches and the players in these communities is really what it is all about.
At this grand final, to see the Ngukurr Bulldogs coach travel in with all the community people on board, and the same again with the Arnhem Crows, with their red and yellow, coming in from Barunga, Beswick, Bulman and even Manyallaluk was a fantastic atmosphere and certainly a lot of excitement.
I send a big thank you to the AFL Katherine President Denis Coburn, Secretary Greg Dickson, and the coaches of each of the teams. I would like to read into Hansard the names of those people. The coaches are Greg Daniels and Graham Turner for the Bulldogs. The Arnhem coach is Paul Amarant. I look forward to next season. The players were Neville Andrews; Amos Ashley; Rowan Bonson; Queron Daniels; Germaine Farrell; Nico Farrell; Tom Farrell; Peter Gumbula; Davin Hall; Jeremy Hall; Adam Joshua; William Joshua; Edmund Kelly; Roland Lansen, Captain; Fabian Rami; Stefan Rami; Brendan Robertson; Phillip Robertson; Howard Turner; Owen Turner; Terrance Turner; Ishmael Wurramara; and naturally, the coaches, Greg Daniels and Graham Turner.
The Arnhem Crows players were: Ronnie Ah Fat; Paul Amarant; Peter Amarant; Levi Ashley; Ray Ashley; Leon Bonson; Gaston Bowden; Symeon Bulumbara; Braun Bush; David Groves; Gavin Harrison; Rexmond Isaac; Rocky Kennedy; Scott Lee; Robert McGregor-Brown; Relton Roberts, Captain; Germaine Scrubby; Traven Shields; Kyle Talbot; Allan Trindle; Barnabas Turner; Campbell Wurramara; and, of course, the Coach, Paul Amarant, who will be bringing a lot of the players up for the season with the NTFL; and I certainly commend Paul on his efforts. He works for Nyirranggulung, the regional authority and is the Sport and Recreation Officer for the Bulman, Barunga, Beswick, Manyallaluk region. Paul does a tremendous job of trying to get the young footy players up each weekend, and they play with Nightcliff Tigers, so go Nightcliff.
I am really proud to see all the Arnhem mob come up to be a part of the NTFL, and want to see more of our communities become involved. I would most definitely like to see a lot of the women involved, and to see women’s sport play a higher role, which is a personal goal. We will see what happens over the coming years.
Mr KIELY (Sanderson): Mr Acting Deputy Speaker, tonight I provide the first part of my report back to parliament on my recent trip to New Zealand to have a look at community patrols.
By way of background, for a number of years, recurrent themes of youth antisocial behaviour, property damage, graffiti and other criminal activity have been at the forefront of discussions of local Neighbourhood Watch committees that service Sanderson.
There are two active Neighbourhood Watch committees, Anula and Wulagi, in the Sanderson electorate, and both have very strong community spirit and are actively involved in bringing the community together through such things as suburb-based social events, community crime audits, the lowering of youth-associated antisocial behaviour through participative community projects and household street numbering drives to name just a few areas of activity.
A consistent issue of concern to these committees that I have observed while attending Neighbourhood Watch meetings, is the capacity of police to respond in a timely fashion to calls from citizens when advised through the telephone contact number 131 444 of an actual crime or potential crime occurring. Neighbourhood Watch members understood that police resources are not infinite and that not all reports could be addressed as soon as reported, and set their minds to identifying ways of becoming more active in helping reduce crime through early intervention strategies.
One such strategy that caught the eye of a number of Wulagi Neighbourhood Watch committee members was voluntary community patrols undertaken by Neighbourhood Watch members. Following up on the this idea, the Area Coordinator of Wulagi Neighbourhood Watch, Mr Paul Wyatt, and the Assistant Area Coordinator of Wulagi Neighbourhood Watch, Mr Anthony Scott, researched community patrolling in New Zealand. I recall a couple of meetings I attended where they provided overviews of community patrolling programs in New Zealand, and advised of plans to attend an Annual General Meeting of New Zealand Community Patrols, to find out how these patrol works and if this model could be utilised in Wulagi. Planning to attend this meeting in New Zealand was always going to be an issue, and I was pleased to hear that Neighbourhood Watch Northern Territory is going to pay for Mr Wyatt to attend, along with the executives of the Neighbourhood Watch NT Sergeant Jeff Mosel. Funding for Mr Scott to attend the meeting was provided privately by donation from the Wulagi Neighbourhood Watch committee, as well as from individual members of the community.
Upon the Neighbourhood Watch team’s return from their fact-finding mission to New Zealand, Mr Scott dropped off a copy of the report prepared for local Invercargill Community Patrol members on a patrol they accompanied while at the annual general meeting. I will submit that with the report, Mr Deputy Speaker.
As the local member for Sanderson, I was approached by a number of constituents who had been made aware of the visit of the Neighbourhood Watch members to New Zealand through the local media, and of their desire to implement similar community patrols in Wulagi and Anula. On the basis of these and similar approaches by other members of the community, I decided to further my knowledge of community patrols by visiting a number of cities and regional centres in the South Island of New Zealand. I chose the South Island because I had been advised by constituents who lived in New Zealand that the South Island population is more like the Northern Territory population. The North Island is more in tune with the lifestyle of our southern states.
As part of my preparation to leave for New Zealand, I made contact with the Chairman of Community Patrols New Zealand, Mr Ian Pilbrow, to organise meetings with local community patrol members and police. Mr Pilbrow advised me on 13 September 2007 that he and a serving New Zealand police officer would be speaking at the Neighbourhood Watch Northern Territory AGM on 22 September 2007. I met with Mr Pilbrow and the New Zealand police representative while they were in Darwin. Mr Pilbrow was able to provide me with some very good information and a list of Community Patrol contacts in Christchurch and Dunedin. Suggestions for other towns and cities to visit based on similar population centres such as Katherine and Alice Springs were identified.
I also took the opportunity to attend a community meeting organised by Mr Wyatt held at the Casuarina Community Library on 26 September 2007 at which Mr Pilbrow and the New Zealand police associate briefed the audience on the role and organisation of Community Patrols New Zealand. Also as part of my pre-trip preparation, I reviewed the most current list of New Zealand Community Patrols. From this list, I selected the town patrols which I considered met the criteria I set. Also included in the visiting schedule were number of centres that did not have community patrols. These were included as it is important to try to identify the reason why some communities had patrols and others did not, and what effects these may have had on crime protection or prevention.
The communities I visited were at Greymouth, which has the Greymouth Community Patrol at the police station in Greymouth. Greymouth has a population of 10 000 people. It is predominantly a rural service centre and is similar to Katherine. There is a regional community called Gore which has the Gore Community Patrol and is serviced by the police station at Gore. It has 12 000 people and that, too, had many similarities to Katherine. There was Cromwell, which did not have a patrol. I went to Cromwell Police Station. Cromwell has 3000 people. It was a purpose-built township and reminded me of townships like Jabiru and mining centres of that nature. Queenstown, which does not have a patrol, is serviced by the Queenstown Police Station. Queenstown has 20 000 people and its main economic driver is tourism. It reminded me of Alice Springs in terms of its economics, population and tourism. I went to Queenstown and spoke to police there.
Dunedin has two patrols, north and south. It is serviced by Dunedin City Police Station as well as Dunedin South. Dunedin has 120 000 people. It is a major centre on the west coast of New Zealand and is about the same size as Darwin. It has a university like Darwin. It is the main centre around that area. Christchurch has eight patrols serviced by various police stations throughout the Christchurch district. Christchurch has 320 000 people. It is a major city. Of course, we do not have any cities of that size in the Territory, but the urban nature of Christchurch I equated with Darwin. There was also a smaller centre, Hokitika, which does not have any patrols, although it is listed as having patrols on the CPNZ website. Hokitika has 4000 people and I equated that with Tennant Creek.
The notion is for community patrols to be trialled, I read in one of the media releases in New Zealand, in Alice Springs with the view of going out across the Territory. I thought it was important that I see where the community patrols operate in centres quite similar in size to our own.
Over the course of my 10-day visit to New Zealand, I travelled approximately 2000 km and visited the communities I mentioned where I met with either community patrol members, local police or both. I attended evening police duty parades for briefings on crime and antisocial behaviour where criminal intelligence was shared prior to going out on patrol. As a condition of attendance, I was required to sign a confidentiality undertaking that I would not reveal the contents of any information I accessed as a result of the police intelligence briefings, nor that I would divulge the names of any patrol member without prior consent. Although I am protected by privilege, I fully plan to honour the spirit of these agreements.
I went on patrol in two centres. On the basis of the request for confidentiality, my intention is to present the information I obtained from the meetings I had with police and patrol members in an unattributed format and I will present my findings at the next sitting.
Mr Deputy Speaker, I would like to mention the process of interviews. I interviewed patrol members as I was out on patrol. It was all rather informal. At times, I interviewed coordinators in the police station. I attended meetings at patrol members’ houses and was fully briefed on different aspects. I met police on duty in their stations. I met police who had dealt with community patrols. I met with police who had not dealt with community patrols and heard a range of full and frank stories from them and how they viewed the operation, the effectiveness of community patrols. I made a point of talking to local shopkeepers and any locals that I met. I asked them about community patrols by way of feedback from the community. All in all, it was a very good information gathering exercise.
I will wind up now and save my findings and other observations for the next sitting. Travel costs of parliamentarians on study trips are a point of interest for the community. I have not yet acquitted all the travel costs, but on the accounts that I have to hand, I spent $4200 on travel and $3900 on accommodation, which comes to about $8500 as the cost of the study tour.
Mr Deputy Speaker, I look forward to when we next meet to put forward my findings. I am hopeful of having a full and comprehensive report to provide to the Police minister as well as make myself available to give presentations and report to local Neighbourhood Watch meetings on my findings.
Dr BURNS (Johnston): Mr Deputy Speaker, a man with a heart of gold and long-time Darwinite, Dominique Lambrinidis, passed away peacefully on 26 September 2007 of heart failure. Dominique was born in Lyon, France on 29 September 1934 to Georgette and Dimocritis Lambrinidis, both of Greek descent. Dominique had two sisters, Fannie and Connie, and a younger brother, Pierre. He married Kalliopi Kassaras on 10 December 1966 in Darwin, and they have five children: Spiros, Sylvia, George, John and Theodoros.
Being born on the same day, same time and same hospital ward as Bridget Bardot, it was a sign that this young lad was to be a very special addition to the world. Dominique attended Ecole Rue Trouchet No 94, obtaining his Certificat D-Etudes Primaire in 1949. He then began an apprenticeship in cabinet making.
Wartime France was difficult. Ever an entrepreneur, Dominique would sell peanuts at the local cinema and sandals at the local market to help his family as his father had been sent to a forced labour camp in Germany, and money was scarce. When his father Dimocritos decided to come to Australia, Dominique, being an adventurous man, decided to come along. At the tender age of 17, he arrived in 1951.
Destined for Sydney, he bumped into cousins in Fremantle and decided to stay, working for Harvey’s WA and Peter’s Creameries before moving to Perth where he began work for the State Electricity Commission, or SEC, as a Trades Assistant changing voltages to save money to bring his mother, sisters and brother to Australia.
A handsome man who loved to dance, he attended regular European dances every Saturday, taking his sisters along. He moonlighted as a waiter at the first true a la carte in Perth, the Ao Petit Paris while at the SEC, then at the Ocean Beach Restaurant in Perth, another a la carte restaurant that opened. He then became maitre d’hotel at the Fontain Blu Restaurant where many national and international stars appeared, and finally opened his own restaurant, the Casablanca, and managed to attract stars such as the Allen Brothers, to perform there. He lived a colourful life and had two race horses, Lord Bayard and Paperbury, with the offspring of Paperbury winning a Perth Oaks.
Dominique moved to Darwin in 1964 to work with another cousin, Stamatis Pastrikos, in the construction industry, and helped him to build and run the Aspa City Motel in Dashwood Crescent. With his experience, Dominique ran the restaurant and brought in many famous entertainers, his most famous being the young Marcia Hines who performed in her Australian dbut.
Always keen to try new things, Dominique opened an electrical and toy shop in the Windsor Arcade, and made himself available to help people with interpreting and translating services in the Greek community. Stamatis’ brother, Pantelis, then persuaded Dominique to work for him to help him grow his cabinet making business, Darwin Joinery Works, or DJW, in 1970.
In 1973 after building the family home, they decided to go back to Perth to be closer to his family. A year later, when he returned to make repairs following Cyclone Tracy, Dominique saw the potential for rebuilding Darwin. In 1977, he returned for good and formed a partnership with yet more Pastrikos brothers, Spiros and Anastasis Pastrikos and Manolis Gerakios, forming ADES Constructions.
A successful business, ADES repaired or built hundreds of damaged and new homes in Darwin and Palmerston. His only regret was that his grand plan to build a world-class marina and ship repair facility in Frances Bay was somehow lost to a larger company.
In 1982, the partners decided to disband and head separate ways, and Dominique took his young family back to France and Greece to visit old friends and family with whom he maintained contact. On return, his entrepreneurial skills took over and he began another building company with Anastasis Pastrikos, AD Enterprises, and Interstar Video with Nick Fermanis. Unfortunately, the recession took its toll and Dominique suffered a heart attack in 1992, effectively cutting short his working life, but this did not mean Dominique became less busy.
He became a Public Officer and Secretary of the Greek Orthodox Community of North Australia and dedicated his time to this task, helping to petition the government for much needed grants, and giving his son George a life lesson in how to achieve the seemingly unachievable. He remained Public Officer until his death.
He was a kind, gentle, God loving man who always helped anyone that needed help. He was a good, loving husband, father and friend, and Australian. He was a model citizen who thrived on helping his fellow man. A natural peacemaker, he was always optimistic about everyone, and always thought the best of everyone. He loved his Greek blood, loved France, but most of all, he loved being an Australian. It is no wonder he enjoyed a nice red wine, good company and attending formal gatherings and functions.
Dominique adored his family and spending time with them. He loved to take his young son, Theo to soccer and football training and watch him play his games on weekends. Family was integral to his life and he found comfort and joy in having everyone visit the family home for name days, birthdays and other celebrations.
Whilst he was proud of all his children, he was also proud that he now had grandchildren from three of his kids. They include Kelly, Manolis, Kyriakos, Garifalia and Madeline. Many people would not be aware that Dominique’s Greek name is Kyriakos, so he has a namesake in the young Kyriakos Lambrinidis. Dominique especially adored his wife of over 40 years, Poppy or Kalliopi. They went everywhere together and they did everything together until the end. It is a beautiful thing to know that Dominique passed away in Poppy’s arms, as he could only have wanted it to be so. Vale Dominique; may he rest in peace.
Mr Deputy Speaker, tonight I want to talk about a remarkable woman who recently retired after much-valued service within the Department of Health and Community Services. Rose Rhodes retired from the Department of Health and Community Services on Friday 31 August after 22 years of dedicated service. Rose was an outstanding member of the public service, and was awarded the Public Service Medal on Australia Day this year, honouring her wonderful contribution not only to our public service but to the Northern Territory.
Rose moved to Darwin from Adelaide in 1985, bringing with her a wealth of senior nursing experience which she put to good use when she commenced her employment as an Assistant Director of Nursing at Royal Darwin Hospital. Rose was known as a mover and a shaker; someone who could make things happen. Within a year of starting at RDH, Rose moved to Community Health as Director of Nursing where, amongst her many achievements, she was instrumental in setting up a range of specialist nursing positions and securing funding for these positions under the federal government Home and Community Care, or HACC Program. This was the first HACC service in the Territory.
For the past 11 years, Rose has worked at executive level in a wide variety of capacities, including Regional Director Operations North, Assistant Secretary Community Services, and most recently, Acting Deputy Secretary, Performance and Resources. Rose’s leadership and influence extended beyond the public service. She made a positive contribution to the broader Territory community through her leadership in disaster recovery and her working relationships with members of the private and non-government sectors. Rose’s pleasant demeanour and determination to make things right made her a hit with her colleagues and stakeholders. She is known as a fair but tough negotiator, with the consumer always the focus of her work.
Rose is planning a family visit to Adelaide and Singapore at the commencement of her retirement. She has more travel planned for the longer term. Rose is highly respected by all levels of staff and her presence will be missed in the department for her corporate knowledge, her active, positive participation and her humour.
Successive governments, successive ministers and I know the member for Arafura, Marion Scrymgour, Minister for Family and Community Services, will also join me tonight, and all members present, in wishing Rose and her family all the best in her retirement.
Mr Deputy Speaker, I would like to speak about Veronica Barrett who has also retired after an impressive 34 years of service with the Northern Territory government. Veronica is retiring at the age of 71 to move to Perth to be with her sons. She started work in the Northern Territory at Ludmilla Primary School in 1973 where she worked as a School Assistant for 17 years. No doubt, many Territorians who attended Ludmilla Primary School will, when they reflect on their primary school years, remember Veronica with affection and respect.
In May 1990, Veronica transferred to the Centre for Disease Control, where she worked as the Unit Administrator for the past 17 years. That is where I met Veronica. She is a wonderful lady and very well respected by everyone and certainly did a great job in Disease Control. During this period, Veronica had responsibility for the administration of the Northern Territory Notifiable Diseases Database, reception for the Centre for Disease Control and the role of Personal Assistant to the unit’s Director who, of course, now is Vicki Krause.
She was renowned as the mature and calm voice at the end of the phone, and has a wealth of corporate knowledge of the Centre for Disease Control. She always knew which staff member would be able to address a particular issue, and that is a fairly complicated issue in itself within Disease Control. Veronica has constantly moved with the times in technology, and her expertise in generating reports and responding to queries regarding notifiable diseases has been an asset to the department.
Veronica showed dedication to all her duties and was known to her colleagues as the ‘Ringer of the Cow Bell’ as she walked the corridors of Block 4 ringing the cow bell to announce the start of daily meeting for the Centre of Disease Control on-call staff. What a great little ceremony. I am sure her ringing of the cow bell will be greatly missed.
Veronica was a very well liked and respected member of the Centre for Disease Control and will be greatly missed by her colleagues. Veronica is an avid Aussie Rules fan, and devoted supporter of Port Adelaide, so life should be interesting for her in Perth. I am sure she is going to stick with the mighty Port Adelaide. I thank Veronica for her service to the public. On behalf of all the staff members at Centre for Disease Control and the Director Dr Vicki Krause, we all wish you well, Veronica. Enjoy your time with your family in Perth and enjoy your retirement.
Mr Deputy Speaker, in closing, I was very saddened today to hear the passing of Vern Pech. I have known Vern for many years. He has been am Essential Services Officer for at least 20 years at Maningrida and, preceding that, on the Tiwi Islands. Not to put too fine a point on it, Vern was a real character, one I will remember with a lot of affection. It is probably not appropriate for me to give a full memorial to Vern. I will certainly do that in the December sitting. I do want to place on the record tonight the sadness that I and many other people have experienced on hearing of Vern’s death through an accident at Maningrida today. I extend my condolences to his family. As I said, I will have a proper speech in the December sitting about Vern and his life and the mighty contribution he has made over many years as a dedicated Essential Services Officer in the Top End of the Northern Territory.
Motion agreed to; the Assembly adjourned.
Last updated: 04 Aug 2016