ANSWERS TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS
21 October 2008
8. Bob Collins - Assertions of Abuse
Mr ELFERINK to MINISTER for JUSTICE AND ATTORNEY-GENERAL
Can you advise on how many occasions has an accused person relied, by way of a defence or by way of mitigation of sentence, upon the assertion that they were abused by former Labor Senator Bob Collins?
ANSWER
The specific information you are requesting is not kept by the court and the extensive resources required to find it are not available. Should you choose to, you can access audio of the court proceedings, with the court’s permission, to find this information.
12. Treasurer's Annual Financial Statements - 2005-06 and 2006-07
Mr ELFERINK to TREASURER
On page 25 of the 2005-06 Treasurer’s Annual Financial Statement the Actual Audited Total Revenue for the year 2005-06 is determined to be $3 001 613 000. In the 2006-07 TAFS (page 27) the 2005-06 actual audited figure appears as $3 036 930 000. The difference is $35.317m.
By what mechanism does a finalised and audited figure change from one year to the next when it reflects the same reporting period?
ANSWER
By way of background it is worth noting that under Australian Accounting Standards, where there has been a change in accounting policy between years, it is a requirement that previous year comparatives are restated to provide consistency with current year disclosures. This is so that readers of the financial statements can compare the previous year’s numbers on the same basis as that applying to current year disclosures.
Where this occurs, the financial statements are required to disclose this change of treatment so that readers are fully informed of the impact of the restatement.
In this instance, Territory Housing, a government business division, had previously been included in the public non-financial corporation sector because of its commercial focus in the provision of the delivery of public housing services. In line with the change in treatment announced in the May 2007 Budget, Territory Housing was reclassified within the general government sector on the basis of its added responsibilities for Indigenous housing policy and the management of public housing in remote communities.
This change in sector is the reason for the restatement of the 2005-06 comparatives in the TAFS so as to bring them in line with the reclassification in 2006-07. This change in classification was fully scrutinised by audit and is clearly disclosed on page 11 in the Overview section and page 46 (note 1(d) comparatives) in the audited section of the 2006-07 TAFS.
Other recent examples of the changes to comparatives include the transition to International Financial Reporting Standards from 1 July 2005 that resulted in a restatement of the 2004-05 comparatives in the 2005-06 TAFS. Similar restatement has been made to the 2006-07 comparatives in the yet to be tabled 2007-08 TAFS following the adoption of the new accounting standard AASB 1049 by the Territory that harmonises accounting standards with the Government Finance Statistics format.
14. Licensing Commission – Annual Report 2006-07
Mr ELFERINK to MINISTER for JUSTICE and ATTORNEY-GENERAL
Section 21 of the Northern Territory Licensing Commission Act requires that an annual report be submitted with regard to the operations and functions of the commission. Essentially, the annual report cannot be tabled later than the October of the next financial year.
1. Why was the 2006-07 annual report not tabled until September 18th 2008?
2. For what reason was the law broken?
ANSWER
You may recall that we discussed this matter during the October 2008 sittings. During the sittings I commented on two major events that contributed to the Northern Territory Licensing Commission 2006-07 Annual Report being delayed.
In November 2006 the Racing, Gaming and Licensing function was transferred from NT Treasury to Department of Justice. With the transfer of agency responsibilities, the corresponding checks and balances for the commission’s annual reporting did not get incorporated into the department’s systems. With effect from July 2007, the federal Intervention had a massive impact on the regulation of alcohol in the Northern Territory and the commission’s workload was increased significantly.
While annual reporting and adherence to statutory time frames are an important part of accountable government I would, however, like to put it on record that the lateness of the report had no serious public implications. Most of the information contained in the 2006-07 report was of an administrative and statistical nature and was already publicly available through other sources.
Thank you for bringing this matter to my attention. I can assure you that senior staff from my department have strengthened administrative systems to prevent this type of oversight reoccurring.
28 October 2008
18. Aeromedical Flights
Mr WESTRA van HOLTHE to MINISTER for HEALTH
1. When is the expected completion date for the wallaby fence at Katherine Airport?
2. When is the expected recommencement of night time aeromedical flights at Katherine?
3. What is the cost of housing aeromedical pilots and support staff in Darwin that are otherwise based in Katherine?
4. What are the specific procedures and measures that have been put in place to evacuate critical patients from Katherine during night time hours while the aeromedical service cannot operate from Katherine at night?
5. What is the cost of these additional measures referred to in question 4?
ANSWER
1. Australian government Department of Defence advises the wildlife exclusion fence will be completed by the end of April 2009, subject to weather.
2. Once the Tindal Airstrip is assessed as safe for night landings by the service provider, the aeromedical services fixed-wing aircraft will recommence night flights.
3. Costs incurred by Department of Health and Families, to date, are estimated at approximately $173 000. This includes costs for accommodating NT government nursing staff and transfer of base operations from Katherine to Darwin.
4. On 14 November 2008, I announced an after-hours helicopter medical retrieval service for the Katherine region. The Department of Health and Families has established an interim agreement with Jayrow and, in December, the Northern Territory government committed to extend the overnight service until the middle of 2009.
5. To date, the Katherine helicopter night medical retrieval service has cost approximately $110 000.
25 November 2008
29. Mining Royalties
Mr WOOD to TREASURER
In the NT News of Wednesday, 6 August 2008, an article by Alison Bevege said the NT government refuses to say how much it receives in royalties from individual mining companies, claiming that the information was exempt under the Freedom of Information Act as it was ‘in the public interest’:
1. Why is it ‘in the public interest’ not to tell the public what royalties are received from mining companies?
2. If you are not willing to tell the public, would you allow the Auditor-General to check to see what royalties are being paid and if they are being calculated correctly according to the Mining Royalty Act?
3. When could we expect to see a report from the Auditor-General on the audit results of the extent and correctness of mining royalties paid by mining companies?
ANSWER
1. Information about the affairs of individual miners cannot be disclosed because of the operation of the secrecy provisions in the Mineral Royalty Act.
2. Treasury is required by the Mineral Royalty Act to assess every mineral royalty return. This involves a comprehensive audit that looks at all aspects of a royalty return, including deductions that are used to calculate a mining venture’s profit. This process reduces the scope for royalty avoidance.
3. The Auditor-General tables reports in the Legislative Assembly of the annual audits conducted on Treasury’s operations, including the Territory’s royalty administration processes, each year after the audits have been completed.
30. Motor Accident Compensation Contribution Premium
Mr ELFERINK to TREASURER
On page 19 of the MAC Business Statement of Corporate Intent, 2007 to 2010, it says: ‘subject to any unforseen events, and in particular strong growth in the investment markets, it is not anticipated that the compensation contribution premium will increase in the near future’.
1. As the investment markets have lost a substantial amount of their value, how will this now impact on compensation contribution premiums?
2. If so, how much will the interest rate rise?
ANSWER
Annual Motor Accident Compensation (MAC) contribution amounts, paid by motorists when registering a vehicle, are determined by the Compensation Contributions Commissioner, who is appointed under section 49A of the Motor Vehicles Act.
The commissioner makes determinations independently of government, but is required to consult with the Treasurer and the Territory Insurance Office (TIO) in making such determinations. The commissioner makes determinations with reference to actuarial forecasts of compensation claim costs and long-term investment returns.
The 2007 MAC Business Statement of Corporate Intent (SCI) is a forward looking document which includes forecasts for the period 2007-08 to 2009-10. As a result, it was prepared by TIO almost 18 months ago, at a time when the prevailing financial and economic outlook was considerably more positive. Since then, equities markets and interest rates have declined considerably with nett investment income for the MAC fund declining by $38.7m over the 2007-08 financial year.
In April 2008, the Compensation Contributions Commissioner determined an increase in contribution amounts of 2.4% for 2008-09, primarily due to emerging volatility in capital markets and growth in claim costs. This increase was the first in four years.
The recent volatility in investment markets, as well as growth in wages and medical costs (the key drivers of MAC claims costs), will need to be considered by the Contributions Commissioner as part of the determination for 2009-10 contribution amounts. The outcome will not be known until April or May 2009, after finalisation of necessary actuarial reports.
31. National Regulatory Framework for Electricity
Mr ELFERINK to TREASURER
1. When will a decision be reached on the national regulatory framework for electricity?
2. What is the anticipated impact on Territory electricity tariffs as a result of the application of that framework?
ANSWER
The government is examining the merits of adopting the regulatory framework which applies in the national electricity market. No decision has been made as yet.
In April 2008, the government released a draft policy paper entitled A New Legislative Framework for the Northern Territory Electricity Industry as the basis for a stakeholder consultation process on electricity reform.
A key conclusion of the consultation process was that physical interconnection is not a necessary condition of moving to the national arrangements. Adopting national laws and rules and conferring authority on national regulatory bodies to operate in the Territory is required.
A final draft policy paper is being refined to incorporate the results of stakeholder consultation, and is expected to be submitted for consideration by government shortly.
Under the national regulatory framework the Territory government would reserve the right to subsidise electricity prices, meaning no changes to the existing uniform tariff policy would be necessary.
34. Bellamack Consortium – Urban Pacific and BriertyMr WOOD to MINISTER for PLANNING and LANDS
You recently announced that the new suburb of Bellamack will be developed by a consortium, Urban Pacific and Brierty.
1. What is the area of land they have purchased?
2. How much did they pay for the land?
3. What infrastructure will they be responsible for?
4. Will there be covenants on the blocks and who has a say in what those covenants will be?
5. Has the consortium any previous experience in developing in the tropics?
6. Will builders be able to buy multiple blocks and will there be restrictions on the number they can purchase?
7. Will builders who buy land and build houses on their own land be eligible for the Buildstart grant?
ANSWER
The government has determined that the Urban Pacific Limited and Brierty Limited Consortium has been selected as the preferred proponent to develop Bellamack Lease Areas A and B, subject to satisfactory contract negotiations.
The Department of Planning and Infrastructure and the Department of Justice are currently negotiating the details of the lease and development agreement with the consortium.
1. The area of land that the consortium will be creating into a high-quality sustainable residential development is approximately 72 ha of land within Lot 6, Town of Palmerston.
2. The Territory government’s past practice in developing residential subdivision has generally been an up-front payment to purchase the Crown land. However, the Bellamack Payment Agreement model for the residential development leases is derived from the creation and sale of vacant land lots and offsets the cost against the revenue. The government’s equity in Bellamack is the land (Lot 6) valued at $20m by the independent Australian Valuation Office and the anticipated funding of the headworks (estimated at $9m). The consortium’s equity in the project will result from the funding of all the development costs and charges.
The government will receive a percentage of the purchase price of the gross sale price of each lot at sale/transfer from the developer to purchaser, and this amount is commercial-in-confidence.
3. The consortium will be responsible for the installation of all internal services; roads; water sensitive urban design systems; a third pipe system; and a smart telecommunications platform.
4. It is at the discretion of the developer to determine if covenants are to be placed on the land. The consortium has indicated that it will implement design guidelines to ensure a high standard of quality built form and environment is achieved within a particular time frame. It is understood that the guidelines will incorporate sufficient flexibility to allow for creativity and the design of individual homes to meet lifestyle needs. The consortium will be working closely with the City of Palmerston regarding the proposed guidelines.
5. Urban Pacific Limited has been responsible for conceiving and delivering major residential estates and integrated housing developments throughout Australia, South Africa and the United States. The consortium has engaged experienced consultants from Darwin who have the local expertise and knowledge to plan and develop Bellamack. The consortium also believes that the participation of local builders is an essential element for achieving the key outcomes of housing diversity, affordability, quality, and innovative and sustainable design relevant to the diverse requirements of the Darwin market and climatic conditions.
6. Housing diversity is a Territory government objective to ensure that new residential developments provide housing variety to enable a wide range of income groups and household types to have a choice. This will be achieved in Bellamack by stipulating that a limit of no more than 50% of lots in Bellamack (ie, approximately 350 lots) should be sold directly to building companies. The sale of a maximum of two blocks to individuals will also reduce the incidence of land speculation.
7. Buildstart is a new Territory government funded scheme to stimulate the construction of more housing in the Northern Territory. The Treasurer has confirmed that the intention of the Buildstart scheme is that the person purchasing a new house or unit, contracting to have a new house built, or building a new house as an owner/builder, will receive the grant. The eligibility criteria for Buildstart will clarify that builders are not eligible for the grant as owner/builders for the purpose of constructing a house for sale, which is a consistent treatment with unit developers who are not eligible for the grant in relation to units they build. Builders remain eligible for houses they build for themselves to live in or to use as a rental property.
36. Development of Park on Old Darwin Hospital Site
Mr ELFERINK to TREASURER
You told the participants of the meeting you convened on Sunday, 16 November 2008 that you would put all money raised from the sale of land at the old Darwin Hospital site back into the park that is to be built there.
1. Will you now describe the methodology you propose to enable people to be able to see how the money from the sale of land goes directly into the development of the park?
2. Will you announce if taxes such as stamp duties are included in that transfer of money into the development of the site?
ANSWER
The Northern Territory government has announced that the majority of the old hospital site at Myilly Point will be developed into a park with a portion being available for residential development. The public consultation phase has only recently finished and the preferred option to develop the site has not been finalised. Once details of the cost and design of the site, including the park, have been determined, the government will commit the necessary funds to develop the site. Funds from the sale of land will be attributed to the development of the park and subject to normal budgetary processes and published in the appropriate financial publications.
37. Integrated Land Information SystemMr ELFERINK to MINISTER for INFRASTRUCTURE and TRANSPORTWhat will be the schedule of fees for use of the Integrated Land Information System, as a result of its commercialisation?
ANSWER
The commercialisation of the Integrated Land Information System (ILIS) involves the establishment of a comprehensive licence with a private sector partner to enable that partner to develop, enhance, customise and market services based on ILIS to third parties both within Australia and overseas.
The potential returns to the NT government from this arrangement are defined in the commercial licence agreement, which is still being finalised, and must remain confidential.
Under this arrangement, it is the ILIS software that is being commercialised. There will be no effect on existing ILIS services or on any fees that currently apply for the use of those services.
10 February 2009
41. Royal Darwin Hospital - Consultancy FeesMr MILLS to MINISTER for HEALTH
1. What are the consultancy fees that will be paid to:
2. How long are each of the appointments for? What accommodation, transport, travel and expense allowances have been allocated to allow them to perform their tasks?
ANSWER
1(a)
Mr Jim O’Sullivan and Mr Peter Foster from The Consultancy Bureau Pty Ltd have been engaged to undertake the security audit at Royal Darwin Hospital. The security audit has two phases. The consultancy fee for Phase 1 is $39 600. The consultancy fee for Phase 2 is $89 760.
Phase 1 of consultation includes review of progress in relation to the Health and Community Services Complaints Commissioner’s (HCSCC) report and review of Royal Darwin Hospital paediatric areas. It is intended Phase 2 will broaden the review to security arrangements on the hospital campus and other hospitals’ paediatric areas.
1(b)
Mr Ray Norman will charge an hourly rate of $100 up to a maximum of $9600.
2. Phase 1 of the Security Audit will be completed by 30 January 2009. Phase 2 will be completed by 30 March 2009. Expenses (accommodation, transport and travel) for the conduct of the security audit are estimated to be no more than $29 850.
42. Royal Darwin Hospital - Security Reviews
Mr MILLS to MINISTER for HEALTH
1. Please provide a list of all current security-related reviews commissioned by the Health department and NT hospitals.
2. For each of these reviews please provide a list of the:
ANSWER
1. There is only one security-related review that is currently in progress. This is the RDH security audit.
2(a)
Mr Jim O’Sullivan and Mr Peter Foster from The Consultancy Bureau Pty Ltd in Brisbane.
2(b)
2(c)
28 April 2009
45. Advertising/Information Campaigns - Education and Training Portfolio
Mr MILLS to MINISTER for EDUCATION and TRAINING
For the years 2007, 2008 and 2009:
1. What advertising or information campaigns have been undertaken by the ministerial portfolio? Please provide the name of each campaign and which companies were engaged to undertake the work.
2. What was the cost of each of these campaigns?
3. Please advise the months in which the expenditure occurred, the medium that was used for the campaign (TV, leaflet, radio) and the amount spent on each medium.
4. What market or other research was undertaken ahead of each campaign, who conducted it, at what cost and when was it undertaken?
ANSWER
Please see Attachment A which outlines details of the Department of Education and Training advertising/information campaigns.
In 2007, the department engaged Polson NT to conduct market research for the teacher recruitment campaign at a cost of $5000.
The Department of Education and Training also conducts market research utilising the knowledge, experience and expertise of department staff.
49. Advertising/Information Campaigns – Police, Fire and Emergency Services Portfolio
Mr MILLS to MINISTER for POLICE, FIRE and EMERGENCY SERVICES
For the years 2007, 2008 and 2009:
1. What advertising or information campaigns have been undertaken by the ministerial portfolio? Please provide the name of each campaign and which companies were engaged to undertake the work.
2. What was the cost of each of these campaigns?
3. Please advise the months in which the expenditure occurred, the medium that was used for the campaign (TV, leaflet, radio) and the amount spent on each medium.
4. What market or other research was undertaken ahead of each campaign; who conducted it; at what cost; and when was it undertaken?
ANSWER
Please see Attachment A spreadsheet.
62. Power and Water Corporation Infrastructure Palumpa
Mr ELFERINK to MINISTER for ESSENTIAL SERVICES
Power and Water Corporation (PAWC) receives funding from the Northern Territory government in the establishment of a community service obligation to provide water and sewerage services to all customers at uniform tariffs.
With regard to the Palumpa community, and since October 2008:
1. How many PAWC and contract personnel are permanently stationed in Palumpa?
2. How many persons, in any capacity and described by the task undertaken, attended Palumpa on behalf of PAWC?
3. What activities were undertaken?
4. What was the value of work undertaken?
5. What recommendations have been made in regard to the repair, maintenance or replacement of PAWC and associated infrastructure?
ANSWER
1. Power and Water does not have any employees stationed at Palumpa.
2. Orders were placed for work at Palumpa from October 2008 until the end of February 2009 with the following companies:
Powercorp Pty Ltd
AA Electrical Pty Ltd
ITT Water & Wastewater Aust Ltd
AG Drilling NT P/L
David Reddy (Wadeye Essential
Crom Pty Ltd T/As Dig Hard Excavations
Hardy Aviation (NT) Pty Ltd
ABB Australia (Darwin)
MTU Detroit Diesel Australia Pty Ltd
Direct Air Charter
3. The activities undertaken involve the day-to-day operations and maintenance for the provision of electricity supply, water supply and sewerage undertaken by the Victoria Daly Shire Council. In addition, orders were placed for unforseen maintenance and cyclic maintenance on the power, water and sewerage systems.
4. The value of the work is best described by the estimate cost of the work to be undertaken for the day-to-day operations and maintenance for the provision of electricity supply, water supply and sewerage by the Victoria Daly Shire Council for Palumpa, Wudapuli and Nama, over a 12-month period.
Palumpa $114 434.71
Power $ 48 637.56
Water $ 48 517.17
Sewer $ 17 279.98
Wudapuli/Nama $ 44 557.81
Power $ 963.12
Water $ 36 628.12
Sewer $ 6 966.57
Capital Works $ 2 027 965.60
New Service Connections (electricity)
Replacement Pumps (water and sewer)
$ 16 856.56
Palumpa – Installation of 500kW
Generating Unit
$ 84 368.00
Wudapuli/Nama – HV Grid Connection
Unforseen Maintenance $ 79 610.11
Power (Electrical and
Sewerage $ 40 491.68
Cyclic Maintenance $ 45 678.61
Power (Electrical and
Distribution infrastructure) $ 11 132.04
Power (Generation
infrastructure) $ 4 981.99
Water supply $ 16 094.38
Sewerage $ 13 470.20
5. The ground level and elevated water storage facilities are recommended for replacement with larger capacity facilities. A concept plan is being developed considering the options for location of the facilities, water reticulation design and possible expansion of serviced areas.
Power and Water has recommended that existing septic tanks, the assets of the facility owner, be serviced through pumping out using specialised pumping equipment to remove the sullage, inspected, and that any necessary rectification works from the inspection be undertaken consistent with plumbing standards and good practice.
Power and Water will prepare an options study to improve sewerage facilities in the area of the community impacted by flooding, including the school, health clinic and council facilities.
Introduction
On 30 March 2006 an infant was sexually assaulted while an inpatient in the Paediatric Ward at Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH). The Health and Community Services Complaints Commission (HCSCC) subsequently received a formal complaint and conducted an investigation to review the arrangements in place across the hospital for the protection of patients.
In November 2008, the HCSCC Commissioner’s Report on Investigation of Royal Darwin Hospital Security Arrangements for the Protection of Children and Infants was released. The Minister for Health Dr Chris Burns responded by requesting: that an independent consultant be engaged to review the progress of implementation in relation to the reports security recommendations; and to undertake a review of internal and external security systems at the RDH and its outer buildings.
Through this review process, the Department of Health and Families seeks to ensure the effective and efficient operation of RDH in-house security systems; that hospital-wide patient, staff and visitor safety is to an acceptable standard; and that the buildings and assets of the hospital are secure.
This consultancy is regarded as essential for the assurance of public accountability within the health system and an effective quality assurance strategy. The findings and recommendations of this review will support the development of strategies to improve hospital wide security.
The Security Audit will be undertaken in two stages. The first stage will focus on objectives 1 and 2. Stage 2 will focus on objectives 3 to 7. These Terms of Reference cover both stages of the Security Audit.
Specific objectives
The consultant will undertake the following:
1. Review the progress of implementation in relation to the HCSCC Report on Investigation of Royal Darwin Hospital Security Arrangements for the Protection of Children and Infants security recommendations and the RDH response to the 2002 and 2007 Lingard Reports.
2. Review the paediatric areas of RDH and make recommendations to support RDH compliance with Australian Standard 4485.2 Security for Healthcare Facilities 1997.
3. Review the security arrangements in the Emergency Department at RDH and make recommendations to support RDH compliance with Australian Standard 4485.2 Security for Healthcare Facilities 1997.
4. Provide an analysis of the efficiency, effectiveness and appropriateness of current security arrangements after hours including the in-house security officer service and building/asset security.
5. Review the role of the hospital-based constable and make recommendations about how the role could be enhanced.
6. Recommend options for a more cohesive and coordinated approach to security on the campus for the protection of all patients, staff, buildings and assets.
7. Review RDH perimeter security as an integral component of site integrity.
QUESTION 42
ATTACHMENT A
Consultation
Consultation should include, but not be limited to:
RDH General Manager
RDH Deputy General Manager
RDH General Services Manager
RDH Team Leader Security Services
RDH Clinical Safety and Quality Manager
RDH Support Services Quality Coordinator
RDH Governance Group
RDH Director of Nursing
RDH Director Medical Services and Education
Outputs
A report to the Minister and the Chief Executive of DHF summarising:
RDH progress in relation to implementation of the security recommendations arising from the Report on Investigation of Royal Darwin Hospital Security Arrangements for the Protection of Children and Infants, November 2008 and the RDH response to the 2002 and 2007 Lingard Reports;
RDH current compliance with Australian Standard 4485, 1997; and
The findings in relation to hospital security systems and prioritised recommendations for security system improvements.
Time Frames
A summary of findings by way of a briefing paper will be provided to the Chief Executive of DHF by no later than 30 January 2009. A draft report will be provided to the Department at the conclusion of Stage 2 and a final report will be provided six weeks after the provision of the draft report.
APPROVED
Jenny Cleary
A/Chief Executive
7 January 2009
ANSWERS TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS
QUESTION 48
ATTACHMENT A
ANSWER TO QRITTEN QUESTION NO. 55
8. Bob Collins - Assertions of Abuse
Mr ELFERINK to MINISTER for JUSTICE AND ATTORNEY-GENERAL
Can you advise on how many occasions has an accused person relied, by way of a defence or by way of mitigation of sentence, upon the assertion that they were abused by former Labor Senator Bob Collins?
ANSWER
The specific information you are requesting is not kept by the court and the extensive resources required to find it are not available. Should you choose to, you can access audio of the court proceedings, with the court’s permission, to find this information.
12. Treasurer's Annual Financial Statements - 2005-06 and 2006-07
Mr ELFERINK to TREASURER
On page 25 of the 2005-06 Treasurer’s Annual Financial Statement the Actual Audited Total Revenue for the year 2005-06 is determined to be $3 001 613 000. In the 2006-07 TAFS (page 27) the 2005-06 actual audited figure appears as $3 036 930 000. The difference is $35.317m.
By what mechanism does a finalised and audited figure change from one year to the next when it reflects the same reporting period?
ANSWER
By way of background it is worth noting that under Australian Accounting Standards, where there has been a change in accounting policy between years, it is a requirement that previous year comparatives are restated to provide consistency with current year disclosures. This is so that readers of the financial statements can compare the previous year’s numbers on the same basis as that applying to current year disclosures.
Where this occurs, the financial statements are required to disclose this change of treatment so that readers are fully informed of the impact of the restatement.
In this instance, Territory Housing, a government business division, had previously been included in the public non-financial corporation sector because of its commercial focus in the provision of the delivery of public housing services. In line with the change in treatment announced in the May 2007 Budget, Territory Housing was reclassified within the general government sector on the basis of its added responsibilities for Indigenous housing policy and the management of public housing in remote communities.
This change in sector is the reason for the restatement of the 2005-06 comparatives in the TAFS so as to bring them in line with the reclassification in 2006-07. This change in classification was fully scrutinised by audit and is clearly disclosed on page 11 in the Overview section and page 46 (note 1(d) comparatives) in the audited section of the 2006-07 TAFS.
Other recent examples of the changes to comparatives include the transition to International Financial Reporting Standards from 1 July 2005 that resulted in a restatement of the 2004-05 comparatives in the 2005-06 TAFS. Similar restatement has been made to the 2006-07 comparatives in the yet to be tabled 2007-08 TAFS following the adoption of the new accounting standard AASB 1049 by the Territory that harmonises accounting standards with the Government Finance Statistics format.
14. Licensing Commission – Annual Report 2006-07
Mr ELFERINK to MINISTER for JUSTICE and ATTORNEY-GENERAL
Section 21 of the Northern Territory Licensing Commission Act requires that an annual report be submitted with regard to the operations and functions of the commission. Essentially, the annual report cannot be tabled later than the October of the next financial year.
1. Why was the 2006-07 annual report not tabled until September 18th 2008?
2. For what reason was the law broken?
ANSWER
You may recall that we discussed this matter during the October 2008 sittings. During the sittings I commented on two major events that contributed to the Northern Territory Licensing Commission 2006-07 Annual Report being delayed.
In November 2006 the Racing, Gaming and Licensing function was transferred from NT Treasury to Department of Justice. With the transfer of agency responsibilities, the corresponding checks and balances for the commission’s annual reporting did not get incorporated into the department’s systems. With effect from July 2007, the federal Intervention had a massive impact on the regulation of alcohol in the Northern Territory and the commission’s workload was increased significantly.
While annual reporting and adherence to statutory time frames are an important part of accountable government I would, however, like to put it on record that the lateness of the report had no serious public implications. Most of the information contained in the 2006-07 report was of an administrative and statistical nature and was already publicly available through other sources.
Thank you for bringing this matter to my attention. I can assure you that senior staff from my department have strengthened administrative systems to prevent this type of oversight reoccurring.
28 October 2008
18. Aeromedical Flights
Mr WESTRA van HOLTHE to MINISTER for HEALTH
1. When is the expected completion date for the wallaby fence at Katherine Airport?
2. When is the expected recommencement of night time aeromedical flights at Katherine?
3. What is the cost of housing aeromedical pilots and support staff in Darwin that are otherwise based in Katherine?
4. What are the specific procedures and measures that have been put in place to evacuate critical patients from Katherine during night time hours while the aeromedical service cannot operate from Katherine at night?
5. What is the cost of these additional measures referred to in question 4?
ANSWER
1. Australian government Department of Defence advises the wildlife exclusion fence will be completed by the end of April 2009, subject to weather.
2. Once the Tindal Airstrip is assessed as safe for night landings by the service provider, the aeromedical services fixed-wing aircraft will recommence night flights.
3. Costs incurred by Department of Health and Families, to date, are estimated at approximately $173 000. This includes costs for accommodating NT government nursing staff and transfer of base operations from Katherine to Darwin.
4. On 14 November 2008, I announced an after-hours helicopter medical retrieval service for the Katherine region. The Department of Health and Families has established an interim agreement with Jayrow and, in December, the Northern Territory government committed to extend the overnight service until the middle of 2009.
- In addition, Careflight based a fully medically equipped helicopter in Darwin, which is available to NT Aero Medical Services on a 24/7 basis. The inclusion of the Careflight Helicopter service to Darwin substantially increases the availability of helicopter retrievals across the Top End of the NT.
5. To date, the Katherine helicopter night medical retrieval service has cost approximately $110 000.
25 November 2008
29. Mining Royalties
Mr WOOD to TREASURER
In the NT News of Wednesday, 6 August 2008, an article by Alison Bevege said the NT government refuses to say how much it receives in royalties from individual mining companies, claiming that the information was exempt under the Freedom of Information Act as it was ‘in the public interest’:
1. Why is it ‘in the public interest’ not to tell the public what royalties are received from mining companies?
2. If you are not willing to tell the public, would you allow the Auditor-General to check to see what royalties are being paid and if they are being calculated correctly according to the Mining Royalty Act?
3. When could we expect to see a report from the Auditor-General on the audit results of the extent and correctness of mining royalties paid by mining companies?
ANSWER
1. Information about the affairs of individual miners cannot be disclosed because of the operation of the secrecy provisions in the Mineral Royalty Act.
- In addition, the Information Act would also support the non-disclosure of information that relates to the commercial affairs of a person.
This outcome is consistent with the position in the other states and territories and the Commonwealth.
2. Treasury is required by the Mineral Royalty Act to assess every mineral royalty return. This involves a comprehensive audit that looks at all aspects of a royalty return, including deductions that are used to calculate a mining venture’s profit. This process reduces the scope for royalty avoidance.
- The Territory’s royalty administration processes are audited as part of the Auditor-General’s annual audit of Treasury’s activities, to provide Territorians with assurance that royalties are being collected in accordance with the provisions of the Mineral Royalty Act.
3. The Auditor-General tables reports in the Legislative Assembly of the annual audits conducted on Treasury’s operations, including the Territory’s royalty administration processes, each year after the audits have been completed.
30. Motor Accident Compensation Contribution Premium
Mr ELFERINK to TREASURER
On page 19 of the MAC Business Statement of Corporate Intent, 2007 to 2010, it says: ‘subject to any unforseen events, and in particular strong growth in the investment markets, it is not anticipated that the compensation contribution premium will increase in the near future’.
1. As the investment markets have lost a substantial amount of their value, how will this now impact on compensation contribution premiums?
2. If so, how much will the interest rate rise?
ANSWER
Annual Motor Accident Compensation (MAC) contribution amounts, paid by motorists when registering a vehicle, are determined by the Compensation Contributions Commissioner, who is appointed under section 49A of the Motor Vehicles Act.
The commissioner makes determinations independently of government, but is required to consult with the Treasurer and the Territory Insurance Office (TIO) in making such determinations. The commissioner makes determinations with reference to actuarial forecasts of compensation claim costs and long-term investment returns.
The 2007 MAC Business Statement of Corporate Intent (SCI) is a forward looking document which includes forecasts for the period 2007-08 to 2009-10. As a result, it was prepared by TIO almost 18 months ago, at a time when the prevailing financial and economic outlook was considerably more positive. Since then, equities markets and interest rates have declined considerably with nett investment income for the MAC fund declining by $38.7m over the 2007-08 financial year.
In April 2008, the Compensation Contributions Commissioner determined an increase in contribution amounts of 2.4% for 2008-09, primarily due to emerging volatility in capital markets and growth in claim costs. This increase was the first in four years.
The recent volatility in investment markets, as well as growth in wages and medical costs (the key drivers of MAC claims costs), will need to be considered by the Contributions Commissioner as part of the determination for 2009-10 contribution amounts. The outcome will not be known until April or May 2009, after finalisation of necessary actuarial reports.
31. National Regulatory Framework for Electricity
Mr ELFERINK to TREASURER
1. When will a decision be reached on the national regulatory framework for electricity?
2. What is the anticipated impact on Territory electricity tariffs as a result of the application of that framework?
ANSWER
The government is examining the merits of adopting the regulatory framework which applies in the national electricity market. No decision has been made as yet.
In April 2008, the government released a draft policy paper entitled A New Legislative Framework for the Northern Territory Electricity Industry as the basis for a stakeholder consultation process on electricity reform.
A key conclusion of the consultation process was that physical interconnection is not a necessary condition of moving to the national arrangements. Adopting national laws and rules and conferring authority on national regulatory bodies to operate in the Territory is required.
A final draft policy paper is being refined to incorporate the results of stakeholder consultation, and is expected to be submitted for consideration by government shortly.
Under the national regulatory framework the Territory government would reserve the right to subsidise electricity prices, meaning no changes to the existing uniform tariff policy would be necessary.
34. Bellamack Consortium – Urban Pacific and BriertyMr WOOD to MINISTER for PLANNING and LANDS
You recently announced that the new suburb of Bellamack will be developed by a consortium, Urban Pacific and Brierty.
1. What is the area of land they have purchased?
2. How much did they pay for the land?
3. What infrastructure will they be responsible for?
4. Will there be covenants on the blocks and who has a say in what those covenants will be?
5. Has the consortium any previous experience in developing in the tropics?
6. Will builders be able to buy multiple blocks and will there be restrictions on the number they can purchase?
7. Will builders who buy land and build houses on their own land be eligible for the Buildstart grant?
ANSWER
The government has determined that the Urban Pacific Limited and Brierty Limited Consortium has been selected as the preferred proponent to develop Bellamack Lease Areas A and B, subject to satisfactory contract negotiations.
The Department of Planning and Infrastructure and the Department of Justice are currently negotiating the details of the lease and development agreement with the consortium.
1. The area of land that the consortium will be creating into a high-quality sustainable residential development is approximately 72 ha of land within Lot 6, Town of Palmerston.
2. The Territory government’s past practice in developing residential subdivision has generally been an up-front payment to purchase the Crown land. However, the Bellamack Payment Agreement model for the residential development leases is derived from the creation and sale of vacant land lots and offsets the cost against the revenue. The government’s equity in Bellamack is the land (Lot 6) valued at $20m by the independent Australian Valuation Office and the anticipated funding of the headworks (estimated at $9m). The consortium’s equity in the project will result from the funding of all the development costs and charges.
The government will receive a percentage of the purchase price of the gross sale price of each lot at sale/transfer from the developer to purchaser, and this amount is commercial-in-confidence.
3. The consortium will be responsible for the installation of all internal services; roads; water sensitive urban design systems; a third pipe system; and a smart telecommunications platform.
4. It is at the discretion of the developer to determine if covenants are to be placed on the land. The consortium has indicated that it will implement design guidelines to ensure a high standard of quality built form and environment is achieved within a particular time frame. It is understood that the guidelines will incorporate sufficient flexibility to allow for creativity and the design of individual homes to meet lifestyle needs. The consortium will be working closely with the City of Palmerston regarding the proposed guidelines.
5. Urban Pacific Limited has been responsible for conceiving and delivering major residential estates and integrated housing developments throughout Australia, South Africa and the United States. The consortium has engaged experienced consultants from Darwin who have the local expertise and knowledge to plan and develop Bellamack. The consortium also believes that the participation of local builders is an essential element for achieving the key outcomes of housing diversity, affordability, quality, and innovative and sustainable design relevant to the diverse requirements of the Darwin market and climatic conditions.
6. Housing diversity is a Territory government objective to ensure that new residential developments provide housing variety to enable a wide range of income groups and household types to have a choice. This will be achieved in Bellamack by stipulating that a limit of no more than 50% of lots in Bellamack (ie, approximately 350 lots) should be sold directly to building companies. The sale of a maximum of two blocks to individuals will also reduce the incidence of land speculation.
7. Buildstart is a new Territory government funded scheme to stimulate the construction of more housing in the Northern Territory. The Treasurer has confirmed that the intention of the Buildstart scheme is that the person purchasing a new house or unit, contracting to have a new house built, or building a new house as an owner/builder, will receive the grant. The eligibility criteria for Buildstart will clarify that builders are not eligible for the grant as owner/builders for the purpose of constructing a house for sale, which is a consistent treatment with unit developers who are not eligible for the grant in relation to units they build. Builders remain eligible for houses they build for themselves to live in or to use as a rental property.
36. Development of Park on Old Darwin Hospital Site
Mr ELFERINK to TREASURER
You told the participants of the meeting you convened on Sunday, 16 November 2008 that you would put all money raised from the sale of land at the old Darwin Hospital site back into the park that is to be built there.
1. Will you now describe the methodology you propose to enable people to be able to see how the money from the sale of land goes directly into the development of the park?
2. Will you announce if taxes such as stamp duties are included in that transfer of money into the development of the site?
ANSWER
The Northern Territory government has announced that the majority of the old hospital site at Myilly Point will be developed into a park with a portion being available for residential development. The public consultation phase has only recently finished and the preferred option to develop the site has not been finalised. Once details of the cost and design of the site, including the park, have been determined, the government will commit the necessary funds to develop the site. Funds from the sale of land will be attributed to the development of the park and subject to normal budgetary processes and published in the appropriate financial publications.
37. Integrated Land Information SystemMr ELFERINK to MINISTER for INFRASTRUCTURE and TRANSPORTWhat will be the schedule of fees for use of the Integrated Land Information System, as a result of its commercialisation?
ANSWER
The commercialisation of the Integrated Land Information System (ILIS) involves the establishment of a comprehensive licence with a private sector partner to enable that partner to develop, enhance, customise and market services based on ILIS to third parties both within Australia and overseas.
The potential returns to the NT government from this arrangement are defined in the commercial licence agreement, which is still being finalised, and must remain confidential.
Under this arrangement, it is the ILIS software that is being commercialised. There will be no effect on existing ILIS services or on any fees that currently apply for the use of those services.
10 February 2009
41. Royal Darwin Hospital - Consultancy FeesMr MILLS to MINISTER for HEALTH
1. What are the consultancy fees that will be paid to:
- (a) Jim O’Sullivan – chosen to oversee security issues at Royal Darwin Hospital; and
- (b) Ray Norman – selected to improve the way the department responds to issues of concern and requests for information from statutory bodies?
2. How long are each of the appointments for? What accommodation, transport, travel and expense allowances have been allocated to allow them to perform their tasks?
ANSWER
1(a)
Mr Jim O’Sullivan and Mr Peter Foster from The Consultancy Bureau Pty Ltd have been engaged to undertake the security audit at Royal Darwin Hospital. The security audit has two phases. The consultancy fee for Phase 1 is $39 600. The consultancy fee for Phase 2 is $89 760.
Phase 1 of consultation includes review of progress in relation to the Health and Community Services Complaints Commissioner’s (HCSCC) report and review of Royal Darwin Hospital paediatric areas. It is intended Phase 2 will broaden the review to security arrangements on the hospital campus and other hospitals’ paediatric areas.
1(b)
Mr Ray Norman will charge an hourly rate of $100 up to a maximum of $9600.
2. Phase 1 of the Security Audit will be completed by 30 January 2009. Phase 2 will be completed by 30 March 2009. Expenses (accommodation, transport and travel) for the conduct of the security audit are estimated to be no more than $29 850.
- The Ray Norman consultancy commenced on 12 January 2009 and was completed by 30 January 2009. There are no expenses for the conduct of the Ray Norman consultancy.
42. Royal Darwin Hospital - Security Reviews
Mr MILLS to MINISTER for HEALTH
1. Please provide a list of all current security-related reviews commissioned by the Health department and NT hospitals.
2. For each of these reviews please provide a list of the:
- (a) external consultants engaged to carry out each review;
(b) start and expected completion date for each review;
(c) cost of each review; and
(d) terms of reference for each review.
ANSWER
1. There is only one security-related review that is currently in progress. This is the RDH security audit.
2(a)
Mr Jim O’Sullivan and Mr Peter Foster from The Consultancy Bureau Pty Ltd in Brisbane.
2(b)
- Commencement date 19 December 2008 and expected completion date 30 March 2009.
- Phase 1 of consultation includes review of progress in relation to the Health and Community Services Complaints Commissioner’s (HCSCC) report and review of Royal Darwin Hospital paediatric areas. It is intended Phase 2 will broaden the review to security arrangements on the hospital campus and other hospitals’ paediatric areas.
2(c)
- The consultancy fee for Phase 1 is $39 600.
- Expenses estimated to be no more than $29 850
- For Terms of Reference refer to Attachment A.
28 April 2009
45. Advertising/Information Campaigns - Education and Training Portfolio
Mr MILLS to MINISTER for EDUCATION and TRAINING
For the years 2007, 2008 and 2009:
1. What advertising or information campaigns have been undertaken by the ministerial portfolio? Please provide the name of each campaign and which companies were engaged to undertake the work.
2. What was the cost of each of these campaigns?
3. Please advise the months in which the expenditure occurred, the medium that was used for the campaign (TV, leaflet, radio) and the amount spent on each medium.
4. What market or other research was undertaken ahead of each campaign, who conducted it, at what cost and when was it undertaken?
ANSWER
Please see Attachment A which outlines details of the Department of Education and Training advertising/information campaigns.
In 2007, the department engaged Polson NT to conduct market research for the teacher recruitment campaign at a cost of $5000.
The Department of Education and Training also conducts market research utilising the knowledge, experience and expertise of department staff.
49. Advertising/Information Campaigns – Police, Fire and Emergency Services Portfolio
Mr MILLS to MINISTER for POLICE, FIRE and EMERGENCY SERVICES
For the years 2007, 2008 and 2009:
1. What advertising or information campaigns have been undertaken by the ministerial portfolio? Please provide the name of each campaign and which companies were engaged to undertake the work.
2. What was the cost of each of these campaigns?
3. Please advise the months in which the expenditure occurred, the medium that was used for the campaign (TV, leaflet, radio) and the amount spent on each medium.
4. What market or other research was undertaken ahead of each campaign; who conducted it; at what cost; and when was it undertaken?
ANSWER
Please see Attachment A spreadsheet.
62. Power and Water Corporation Infrastructure Palumpa
Mr ELFERINK to MINISTER for ESSENTIAL SERVICES
Power and Water Corporation (PAWC) receives funding from the Northern Territory government in the establishment of a community service obligation to provide water and sewerage services to all customers at uniform tariffs.
With regard to the Palumpa community, and since October 2008:
1. How many PAWC and contract personnel are permanently stationed in Palumpa?
2. How many persons, in any capacity and described by the task undertaken, attended Palumpa on behalf of PAWC?
3. What activities were undertaken?
4. What was the value of work undertaken?
5. What recommendations have been made in regard to the repair, maintenance or replacement of PAWC and associated infrastructure?
ANSWER
1. Power and Water does not have any employees stationed at Palumpa.
- Power and Water has awarded a five-year contract, which commenced on 1 July 2008, to the Victoria Daly Shire Council for essential services operations. Under this contract, the Victoria Daly Shire Council provides services for day-to-day operations and maintenance for the provision of electricity supply, water supply and sewerage for nominated Indigenous communities within the shire including Palumpa, Wudapuli and Nama. These three communities are supplied with electricity from the Palumpa power station through a regional power grid. Each community has separate water supply and sewerage systems. The Victoria Daly Shire Council employs an Essential Services Operator based at Palumpa in order to undertake the contract works, and provides additional support as required.
2. Orders were placed for work at Palumpa from October 2008 until the end of February 2009 with the following companies:
Powercorp Pty Ltd
AA Electrical Pty Ltd
ITT Water & Wastewater Aust Ltd
- T/As ITT Flygt Limited
AG Drilling NT P/L
David Reddy (Wadeye Essential
- Services Operations Contractor)
Crom Pty Ltd T/As Dig Hard Excavations
Hardy Aviation (NT) Pty Ltd
ABB Australia (Darwin)
MTU Detroit Diesel Australia Pty Ltd
Direct Air Charter
- Given the nature of the contracts where orders are placed for work to be performed, services required and materials or goods to be provided, and paid for on the same basis, the total number of people who ‘attended Palumpa’ over the period under the orders is not recorded.
3. The activities undertaken involve the day-to-day operations and maintenance for the provision of electricity supply, water supply and sewerage undertaken by the Victoria Daly Shire Council. In addition, orders were placed for unforseen maintenance and cyclic maintenance on the power, water and sewerage systems.
4. The value of the work is best described by the estimate cost of the work to be undertaken for the day-to-day operations and maintenance for the provision of electricity supply, water supply and sewerage by the Victoria Daly Shire Council for Palumpa, Wudapuli and Nama, over a 12-month period.
Palumpa $114 434.71
Power $ 48 637.56
Water $ 48 517.17
Sewer $ 17 279.98
Wudapuli/Nama $ 44 557.81
Power $ 963.12
Water $ 36 628.12
Sewer $ 6 966.57
- In addition, the following capital works have been undertaken, for the 2008-09 financial year to the end of February 2009:
Capital Works $ 2 027 965.60
New Service Connections (electricity)
- $ 24 846.04
Replacement Pumps (water and sewer)
$ 16 856.56
Palumpa – Installation of 500kW
Generating Unit
$ 84 368.00
Wudapuli/Nama – HV Grid Connection
- and LV Network
$ 1 901 895.00
- It should be noted that funding for the Wudapuli/Nama – HV Grid Connection and LV Network was provided by the Australian government through the Department of Planning and Infrastructure to Power and Water as a recoverable works program item.
- In addition, orders were placed for the following works or services; for the 2008-09 financial year to the end of February 2009:
Unforseen Maintenance $ 79 610.11
Power (Electrical and
- Distribution infrastructure) $ 18 167.48
- infrastructure) $ 4 454.77
Sewerage $ 40 491.68
Cyclic Maintenance $ 45 678.61
Power (Electrical and
Distribution infrastructure) $ 11 132.04
Power (Generation
infrastructure) $ 4 981.99
Water supply $ 16 094.38
Sewerage $ 13 470.20
5. The ground level and elevated water storage facilities are recommended for replacement with larger capacity facilities. A concept plan is being developed considering the options for location of the facilities, water reticulation design and possible expansion of serviced areas.
Power and Water has recommended that existing septic tanks, the assets of the facility owner, be serviced through pumping out using specialised pumping equipment to remove the sullage, inspected, and that any necessary rectification works from the inspection be undertaken consistent with plumbing standards and good practice.
Power and Water will prepare an options study to improve sewerage facilities in the area of the community impacted by flooding, including the school, health clinic and council facilities.
QUESTION 42
ATTACHMENT A
ATTACHMENT A
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND FAMILIES
TERMS OF REFERENCE
REVIEW OF HOSPITAL SECURITY SYSTEMS
ROYAL DARWIN HOSPITAL
REVIEW OF HOSPITAL SECURITY SYSTEMS
ROYAL DARWIN HOSPITAL
Introduction
On 30 March 2006 an infant was sexually assaulted while an inpatient in the Paediatric Ward at Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH). The Health and Community Services Complaints Commission (HCSCC) subsequently received a formal complaint and conducted an investigation to review the arrangements in place across the hospital for the protection of patients.
In November 2008, the HCSCC Commissioner’s Report on Investigation of Royal Darwin Hospital Security Arrangements for the Protection of Children and Infants was released. The Minister for Health Dr Chris Burns responded by requesting: that an independent consultant be engaged to review the progress of implementation in relation to the reports security recommendations; and to undertake a review of internal and external security systems at the RDH and its outer buildings.
Through this review process, the Department of Health and Families seeks to ensure the effective and efficient operation of RDH in-house security systems; that hospital-wide patient, staff and visitor safety is to an acceptable standard; and that the buildings and assets of the hospital are secure.
This consultancy is regarded as essential for the assurance of public accountability within the health system and an effective quality assurance strategy. The findings and recommendations of this review will support the development of strategies to improve hospital wide security.
The Security Audit will be undertaken in two stages. The first stage will focus on objectives 1 and 2. Stage 2 will focus on objectives 3 to 7. These Terms of Reference cover both stages of the Security Audit.
Specific objectives
The consultant will undertake the following:
1. Review the progress of implementation in relation to the HCSCC Report on Investigation of Royal Darwin Hospital Security Arrangements for the Protection of Children and Infants security recommendations and the RDH response to the 2002 and 2007 Lingard Reports.
2. Review the paediatric areas of RDH and make recommendations to support RDH compliance with Australian Standard 4485.2 Security for Healthcare Facilities 1997.
3. Review the security arrangements in the Emergency Department at RDH and make recommendations to support RDH compliance with Australian Standard 4485.2 Security for Healthcare Facilities 1997.
4. Provide an analysis of the efficiency, effectiveness and appropriateness of current security arrangements after hours including the in-house security officer service and building/asset security.
5. Review the role of the hospital-based constable and make recommendations about how the role could be enhanced.
6. Recommend options for a more cohesive and coordinated approach to security on the campus for the protection of all patients, staff, buildings and assets.
7. Review RDH perimeter security as an integral component of site integrity.
QUESTION 42
ATTACHMENT A
Consultation
Consultation should include, but not be limited to:
RDH General Manager
RDH Deputy General Manager
RDH General Services Manager
RDH Team Leader Security Services
RDH Clinical Safety and Quality Manager
RDH Support Services Quality Coordinator
RDH Governance Group
RDH Director of Nursing
RDH Director Medical Services and Education
Outputs
A report to the Minister and the Chief Executive of DHF summarising:
RDH progress in relation to implementation of the security recommendations arising from the Report on Investigation of Royal Darwin Hospital Security Arrangements for the Protection of Children and Infants, November 2008 and the RDH response to the 2002 and 2007 Lingard Reports;
RDH current compliance with Australian Standard 4485, 1997; and
The findings in relation to hospital security systems and prioritised recommendations for security system improvements.
Time Frames
A summary of findings by way of a briefing paper will be provided to the Chief Executive of DHF by no later than 30 January 2009. A draft report will be provided to the Department at the conclusion of Stage 2 and a final report will be provided six weeks after the provision of the draft report.
APPROVED
Jenny Cleary
A/Chief Executive
7 January 2009
ANSWERS TO WRITTEN QUESTIONS
QUESTION 48
ATTACHMENT A
| Date of release | Campaign name | Target audience(s) | Objective(s) | Tactics | Consultant(s) engaged | Campaign month | Campaign expenditure |
| 2006-07 | Middle years implementa-tion | Year 6 to 8 parents living in Top End, the wider community | To inform parents and wider community about options for their children in or about to enter Middle Years schools. | Graphic design and production $2500 | Sprout | June - July 06 | $ 81 749 |
 | | | | Multimedia design and production $580 | Simon Says | | |
| | | | Printed collateral $58149 | GPO | | |
| | | | Press advertising placement $16 200 | Local media | | |
| | | | Radio advertising placement $2500 | Local media | | |
| | | | Display and graphics $1300 | Sprout | | |
| | | | Plaques $520 | Territory Trophies | | |
| 2006-07 | Focus on Literacy including Chief Ministers Literacy Achievement Awards and Raising a Reader resources | Parents, students, schools | Aims to promote the importance of literacy and highlight achievements in literacy from early childhood to Year 7 | Graphic design and production including photography $19 000 | Sprout | Ongoing campaign throughout the year | $ 46 000 |
| | | | Printed collateral $27 000 | GPO | | |
| 2006-07 | Teaching in the Territory | Undergraduates, graduates, existing teachers | To attract, recruit and retain skilled and professional teachers and promote the benefits, challenges and opportunities of teaching in the Territory | Writing $1200 | Glenn Chandler | Ongoing campaign throughout year | $ 6 095 |
| | | | Press advertising placement $930 | Local media | | |
| | | | Press advertising and placement $2715 | HMA Blaze | | |
| | | | Miscellaneous event costs $1250 | Event venue and suppliers | | |
| Date of release | Campaign name | Target audience(s) | Objective(s) | Tactics | Consultant(s) engaged | Campaign month | Campaign expenditure |
| 2006-07 | Jobs Plan 3 | Teachers, principals, general public | Assists employment growth in the Territory and the development of a highly skilled and flexible workforce | Graphic design and production $7032 | Sprout | June | $ 50 832 |
| | | | Press advertising placement $2300 | Local media | | |
| | | | Printed collateral $37500 | GPO | | |
| | | | Display $4000 | Sprout | | |
| 2006-07 | Back to School payment | Parents, principals, teachers and students | To advise Territory residents of $50 Back to School payment scheme to help families offset the cost of textbooks, stationery, school uniforms and other essential items | Graphic designs and production $350 | Sprout | December 06 / January 07 | $ 24 507 |
| | | | Printed collateral $24157 | GPO | | |
| 2006-07 | Teacher Excellence Awards | Government school teachers, teams and schools | Recognise excellence and innovation in achieving significantly improved outcomes for Territory students by outstanding government school teachers, teams and schools. Recognise winners for their contribution to delivering high quality teaching and education services to maximise student learning and wellbeing. | Graphic design and production $1730 | Sprout | August / October 06 | $ 24 952 |
| | | | Printed collateral $2700 | GPO | | |
| | | | Certificate frames $700 | Arts and Graphics | | |
| | | | Press advertising and placement $5800 | Local media | | |
| | | | Radio advertising and placement $6300 | Local media | | |
| | | | Display $5000 | Sprout | | |
| | | | Prize money $2722 | | | |
| 2006-07 | World Teacher’s Day | Students, parents, school staff and the wider community | Celebrate and pay tribute to Northern Territory teachers and educators. | Press advertising and placement $19000 | Local media | October 06 | $ 31 327 |
| | | | Regional event costings $3300 | Event venue and suppliers | | |
| | | | Radio advertising and placement $9027 | Local media | | |
| Date of release | Campaign name | Target audience(s) | Objective(s) | Tactics | Consultant(s) engaged | Campaign month | Campaign expenditure |
| 2006-07 | Education Week | Students, teachers and government and non-government schools | Celebrates and recognise students, teachers and government and non-government schools’ initiatives and contributions to improving educational outcomes in the NT. Incorporates and celebrates National Literacy and Numeracy Week and Asia in Schools Week. | Graphic design and production $1300 | Sprout | August/ September 06 | $ 12 006 |
| | | | Promotional material $2200 | Stickers and Stuff, Norsign | | |
| | | | Miscellaneous event costings $1850 | Event venue and suppliers | | |
| | | | Press advertising placement $5156 | Local media | | |
| | | | Display $1500 | Sprout | | |
| 2006-07 | Show Circuit 2006 | Parents, children, general public | Focus on implementation of Middle Years and Senior Years stages of schooling across the Territory | Display $65 000 | Sprout, Fusion | July 06 | $ 85 000* *$20 000 spent on individual regional displays |
| | | | Printed collateral $20 000 | GPO | | |
| 2006-07 | Safe Schools NT | Students, parents, all NT schools | Provide an agreed national approach to help schools address issues of bullying, harassment, violence, child abuse and neglect | Graphic design and production $3300 | Sprout | Launched June 07 Ongoing campaign | $ 24 433 |
| | | | Press advertising and placements $2000 | Local media | | |
| | | | Printed collateral $19 133 | GPO | | |
| Date of release | Campaign name | Target audience(s) | Objective(s) | Tactics | Consultant(s) engaged | Campaign month | Campaign expenditure |
| 2007-08 | Teacher Recruitment Campaign | Undergraduates, graduates, existing teachers | To raise awareness of teaching opportunities and the recruitment of suitably qualified teachers for urban and remote Territory schools. | Graphic design and production $15 000 | Sprout | Ongoing campaign throughout year | $150 000 |
| | | | Multimedia design and production $19 000 | Simon Says | | |
| | | | Printed collateral $36 000 | GPO | | |
| | | | Press advertising placement $57 000 | HMA Blaze | | |
| | | | Online advertising placement $3000 | HMA Blaze | | |
| | | | Spyder display and graphics $10 000 | Sprout | | |
| | | | Market research $5000 | Polson NT | | |
| | | | Direct mail $5000 | GPO | | |
| 2007-08 | More Indigenous Teachers Recruitment Campaign | Indigenous students, Indigenous school leavers, Indigenous adults 19 to 24 years old | To increase the number of Indigenous students entering teacher training. | Press advertising $2900 | Local media | November 07 | $ 60 000 |
| | | | Radio advertising $3300 | Local media | | |
| | | | TV advertising $5200 | Local media | | |
| | | | Promotional item $8600 | DM's Promotional | | |
| | | | Multimedia design and production $30 000 | Simon Says | | |
| | | | Display $10 000 | Sprout | | |
| Date of release | Campaign name | Target audience(s) | Objective(s) | Tactics | Consultant(s) engaged | Campaign month | Campaign expenditure |
| 2007-08 | NT Training Awards | Apprentices and trainees, employers | To recognise excellence in apprentices, employers and training providers in the Northern Territory | Graphic design and production $500 | Sprout | September 07 | $ 95 400 |
| | | | Consultancy services/ event management $49 000 | Creative Business Consultants | | |
| | | | Printed collateral $4100 | GPO | | |
| | | | Press advertising placement $3800 | Local media | | |
| | | | Miscellaneous event costs $38 000 | Event venue and suppliers | | |
| 2007-08 | World Teachers Day including Teacher Excellence Awards | Teachers, principals, general public | To celebrate teachers and acknowledge recipients of Teacher Excellence Awards. | Graphic design and production $8000 | Sprout | October 07 | $ 44 000 |
| | | | Press advertising placement $22 200 | Local media | | |
| | | | Printing $4100 | GPO | | |
| | | | Prize money $3000 | | | |
| | | | Miscellaneous event cost $6700 | Event venue and suppliers | | |
| 2007-08 | Show Circuit | Parents, children, general public | Highlight specific programs provided by DET to deliver high quality teaching and learning services to maximise student learning and wellbeing. | Display $40 000 | Sprout, Fusion | July 07 | $ 65 000* * Shared expenses incurred over July 07 and July 08 show displays |
| | | | Printed collateral $5000 | GPO | | |
| | | | Merchandise $5000 | Stickers and Stuff | | |
| | | | Miscellaneous travel expenses $15 000 | | | |
| 2007-08 | Safe Schools Campaign | Parents, school community | To inform parents and the wider school community about the School Wellbeing and Behaviour Policies. (updates and reprint of material launched in June 07) | Graphic design and production $7000 | Sprout | Ongoing campaign | $ 25 000 |
| | | | Printed collateral $18 000 | GPO | | |
| Date of release | Campaign name | Target audience(s) | Objective(s) | Tactics | Consultant(s) engaged | Campaign month | Campaign expenditure |
| 2007-08 | Classmate | Schools, general public | To provide a resource of relevant, educational and topical stories and projects to students | Newspaper to every NT government school across the Territory $137 000 | NT News | Ongoing | $137 000 |
| | | | | | | |
| 2007-08 | Chief Minister's Literacy Achievement Awards | Transition to Year 9 students, parents, teachers, school community | Engage parents, students, schools and the wider community to improve literacy outcomes. | Printed collateral $8000 | GPO | October 07 | $ 25 000 |
| | | | Database $17 000 | Dolphin Software | | |
| 2007-08 | NT WorkSafe new legislation campaign | General public | Inform the community of the new legislation | Graphic design and production $7000 | Sprout | Ongoing throughout the year | $ 38 000 |
| | | | Printed collateral $31 000 | GPO | | |
| 2007-08 | Value of Schooling | Schools, parents, students, community | To raise awareness of the value and benefits of obtaining an education. | Graphic design and production $4500 | Sprout | June 08 | $ 58 000 |
| | | | Multimedia design and production $7500 | Simon Says | | |
| | | | Photography $2400 | Monica Napper Photography | | |
| | | | Printing $10 000 | GPO | | |
| | | | Promotional material $3200 | Stickers and Stuff, Norsign | | |
| | | | TV advertising placement $15 400 | Local media | | |
| | | | Radio advertising placement $9000 | Local media | | |
| | | | Press advertising placement $6000 | Local media | | |
| 2007-08 | Back to School voucher | Parents, schools | To inform Territory parents that the Back to School vouchers are continuing | Graphic design and production $500 | Sprout | November 07 | $ 19 000 |
| | | | Printed collateral $18 500 | GPO | | |
| Date of release | Campaign name | Target audience(s) | Objective(s) | Tactics | Consultant(s) engaged | Campaign month | Campaign expenditure |
| 2007-08 | 2007 Careers Expo | Schools, parents, students, community | To promote various career options available to Territory students and the wider community | Graphic design and production $550 | Sprout | July 07 | $ 82 760 |
| | | | Printed collateral $2500 | GPO | | |
| | | | Consultancy service/ event management $77 560 | CHARTTES | | |
| | | | Press advertising placement $900 | Local media | | |
| | | | Radio advertising placement $600 | Local media | | |
| | | | Miscellaneous event costs $650 | Event suppliers | | |
| 2008-09 | Teaching Recruitment Campaign | Undergraduates, graduates, existing teachers | To raise awareness of teaching opportunities and the recruitment of suitably qualified teachers for urban and remote Territory schools. | Graphic design and production $20 000 | Sprout | Ongoing campaign | $110 000 |
| | | | Press advertising placement $86 500 | HMA Blaze | | |
| | | | Online advertising placement $3500 | HMA Blaze | | |
| 2008-09 | Fireworks Safety | General public | To educate the public how to use fireworks safely on Territory Day. | Graphic design and production $1500 | Sprout | June/ July 08 | $ 35 000 |
| | | | Multimedia design and production $1000 | Simon Says | | |
| | | | Radio advertising placement $20 000 | Local media | | |
| | | | Press advertising placement $12 500 | Local media | | |
| 2008-09 | More Indigenous Teachers Recruitment Campaign | Indigenous students, Indigenous school leavers, Indigenous adults 19 to 24 years old | To increase the number of Indigenous students entering teacher training. | Graphic design and production $1250 | Sprout | November 08 | $ 16 500 |
| | | | Multimedia design and production $450 | Simon Says | | |
| | | | Radio advertising placement $10100 | Local media | | |
| | | | Press advertising placement $4700 | Local media | | |
| Date of release | Campaign name | Target audience(s) | Objective(s) | Tactics | Consultant(s) engaged | Campaign month | Campaign expenditure |
| 2008-09 | World Teachers Day including Teacher Excellence Awards | Teachers, principals, general public | To celebrate teachers and acknowledge recipients of Teacher Excellence Awards. | Graphic design and production $2000 | Sprout | October 08 | $ 29 100 |
| | | | Press advertising placement $21 500 | Local media | | |
| | | | Printed collateral $100 | GPO | | |
| | | | Miscellaneous event costs $5500 | Event venues and suppliers | | |
| 2008-09 | Show Circuit | Parents, children , general public | Highlight specific programs provided by DET to deliver high quality teaching and learning services to maximise student learning and wellbeing. | Display $40 000 | Sprout, Fusion | July 08 | $ 45 000* |
| | | | Printed collateral $5000 | GPO | | |
| 2008-09 | School Attendance | Schools, parents, students, community | To raise awareness of the value and benefits of obtaining an education. | Graphic design and production $27 500 | Sprout | Ongoing campaign | $161 000 |
| | | | Multimedia design and production $33 000 | Simon Says | | |
| | | | TV advertising $41 000 | Local media | | |
| | | | Radio $29 000 | Local media | | |
| | | | Press advertising $28 000 | Local media | | |
| | | | Printed collateral $2500 | GPO | | |
| 2008-09 | Safe Schools | Parents, school community | To inform parents and the wider school community about the School Wellbeing and Behaviour Policies. | Printed collateral $3700 | GPO | March 09 | $ 3 700 |
| | | | | | | |
| 2008-09 | Classmate | Schools, general public | To provide a resource of relevant, educational and topical stories and projects to students | Newspaper to every NT government school across the Territory $137 000 | NT News | Ongoing | $137 000 |
| Date of release | Campaign name | Target audience(s) | Objective(s) | Tactics | Consultant(s) engaged | Campaign month | Campaign expenditure |
| 2008-09 | Electronic Student Profiles | Schools, parents, students | To inform schools, students and parents/guardians of the new online system and its benefits | Strategic advice and communications $5850 | Creative Territory | launched Feb-March 09 Ongoing campaign | $ 12 400 |
| | | | Graphic design and production $2300 | Sprout | | |
| | | | Printed collateral $4250 | GPO | | |
| 2008-09 | Film Festival | Schools, parents, students, general public | To encourage teachers and students in urban and remote areas to connect through film | Press advertising placement $1000 | Local media | August 08 | $ 28 000 |
| | | | Miscellaneous event costs $22 000 | Event venue and suppliers | | |
| | | | Workshops $5000 | Formation Studios | | |
| 2008-09 | Back to School voucher | Parents, schools | To inform parents that the Back to School vouchers are continuing in 2009 and the payment has increased | Graphic design and production $1300 | Sprout | November 08 | $ 18 000 |
| | | | Printed collateral $16 700 | GPO | | |
| 2008-09 | Future NTCE | Schools, parents, students | To inform stakeholders about the future SACE and provide them with an opportunity to comment on its implications for a future NTCE | Graphic design and production $500 | Sprout | November 08 | $ 14 000 |
| | | | Printed collateral $13 500 | GPO | | |
| 2008-09 | NTBOS | Schools, parents, students | To recognise high achieving NTCE students | Printed collateral $3450 | GPO | February 09 | $ 8 650 |
| | | | Miscellaneous event costs $2300 | Event venue and suppliers | | |
| | | | Trophies $2900 | Territory Trophies | | |
| Date of release | Campaign name | Target audience(s) | Objective(s) | Tactics | Consultant(s) engaged | Campaign month | Campaign expenditure |
| 2008-09 | 2008 Careers Expo | Schools, parents, students, community | To promote various career options available to Territory students and the wider community | Press advertising placement $700 | Sprout | July/ August 08 | $ 71 780 |
| | | | Radio advertising placement $840 | Local media | | |
| | | | Printed collateral $140 | GPO | | |
| | | | Consultancy service/ event management $70 100 | CHARTTES | | |
| 2008-09 | NT Training Awards | Apprentices and trainees, employers | To recognise excellence in apprentices, employers and training providers in the Northern Territory | Graphic design and production $650 | Sprout | September 08 | $113 850 |
| | | | Consultancy services/ event management $55 000 | Creative Business Consultants | | |
| | | | Printed collateral $4000 | GPO | | |
| | | | Press advertising placement $2700 | Local media | | |
| | | | Miscellaneous event costs $51 500 | Event venue and suppliers | | |
ANSWER TO QRITTEN QUESTION NO. 55
Advertising/Information Campaigns
Ministerial portfolio: Police, Fire and Emergency Services
Financial year 2006-07, costs commencing January 2007
There were no PFES campaigns conducted during 2006-07 which include integrated communication initiatives involving two or more communication mediums, funded by NTG through NTPFES.
Financial year 2007-08
Name of campaign | Item | Company | Medium (if applicable) | Cost | Month of payment |
| Triple Zero | PFES Contribution to National Campaign | N/A | Internet, print media, television, radio | $16 000.00 | Over 2007-08 |
Financial year 2008-09, costs incurred up to 01 March 2009
Name of campaignItemCompanyMedium (if applicable)CostMonth of payment
| NT Emergency Services Volunteer Recruitment Campaign | Production, Placement, Media | Signtech/In-house | Banners, Print Media, Free Media, Internet, Public Demonstration | $ 3388.11 | December 2008 |
| Triple Zero | PFES Contribution to National Campaign | N/A | Internet, print media, television, radio | $ 4000.00 | December 2008 |
Last updated: 04 Aug 2016