PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEES - Parliament of Victoria

PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEES

PROGRESS ON INVESTIGATIONS To 1 May 2002

54th Parliament

Issued by Authority of the President of the Legislative Council

and the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly

The Parliamentary Committees of the Victorian Parliament are appointed pursuant to the

Parliamentary Committees Act 1968.

The functions of the Joint Investigatory Committees are detailed in sections 4C to 4EF of the

Act which, by section 4F, also makes the following provisions regarding their role, sources of

references and priorities in considering references:

(1) A Joint Investigatory Committee —

(a) is required to inquire into, consider and report to the Parliament on any

proposal, matter or thing relevant to the functions of the Committee which

is referred to the Committee —

(i) by resolution of the Council or the Assembly: or

(ii) by Order of the Governor in Council published in the Government

Gazette; and

(b) may inquire into, consider and report to the Parliament on any annual

report or other document relevant to the functions of the Committee which

is laid before either House of the Parliament pursuant to a requirement

imposed by or under an Act.

* * * * *

(3) A resolution of the Council or the Assembly or an Order of the Governor in

Council referring a proposal, matter or thing to a Joint Investigatory Committee pursuant

to paragraph (a) of sub‐section (1) may specify a period of time within which the

Committee is required to make a final report to the Parliament on the proposal matter or

thing.

(4) In carrying out its functions a Joint Investigatory Committee is required —

(a) to give priority —

(i) firstly, to all proposals, matters or things referred to it by resolution of

the Council or the Assembly; and

(ii) secondly, to all proposals, matters or things referred to it by Order of

the Governor in Council published in the Government Gazette —

before all other proposals, matters or things being inquired into or being

considered by the Committee; and

(b) to comply with any limitation of time specified pursuant to sub‐section (3).

* * * * *

In the 54th Parliament, the Economic Development Committee is established as a Select

Committee of the Legislative Council.

Its functions, role and term of appointment are detailed in sections 37 to 41 of the Parliamentary

Committees Act 1968. References may only be given to this Committee —

(a) by resolution of the Council or

(b) by Order of the Governor in Council published in the Government Gazette.

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DRUGS AND CRIME PREVENTION COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000

Telephone: (03) 9651 3541 Facsimile: (03) 9651 3603

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/dcpc

Members:

(Council) The Hons B C Boardman and S M Nguyen.

(Assembly) Hon R R Cooper, Mr K Jasper, Mr H R Lupton, Mr B Mildenhall and

Mr R Wynne.

Chairman: The Hon B C Boardman, MLC

Executive Officer: Ms Sandy Cook

INQUIRY INTO THE INCIDENCE OF CRIME

Reference from the Legislative Council on 1 March 2000 to inquire, consider and report on

the incidence of crime and to report every 6 months on the levels of crime, areas of

emerging concern and (where suitable) options for crime reduction or control.

Activities during April 2002

Proposal for the structure of the Fourth Crime Trends Report prepared and adopted.

Analysis of crime data received from Victoria Police.

Writing of Report commenced.

Meetings with Dr Stuart Ross, consultant from the University of Melbourne, to

discuss progress of the Report.

Meeting with Dr Don Weatherburn, Director NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and

Research.

Future Activity

Draft report to be completed and adopted by Committee

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INQUIRY INTO VOLATILE SUBSTANCES FOR THE PURPOSE OF

INTOXICATION

Reference from the Governor in Council on 18 April 2001 to inquire into the issue of

inhalation of volatile substances for the purpose of intoxication and report to Parliament

by the first day of the Autumn 2002 sitting.


On going circulation of Discussion Paper. As at 30 April 2002, 1200 Discussion Papers

have been disseminated and 1600 copies have been downloaded from the web site.

On going liaison with key Indigenous groups, researchers, policy makers and

practitioners in Victoria, Northern Territory, Western Australia and South Australia

and New Zealand in relation to Volatile Substances Abuse.

Ongoing scrutiny and analysis of relevant literature and submissions received. As at

30 April 2002, 122 submissions have been received.

Ethics approval obtained from Department of Justice to undertake research for the

Inquiry at the Children’s Court of Victoria. Research has commenced.

Briefings prepared for public hearings in Melbourne and evidence seeking visits to

Perth, New Zealand and Sydney.

Ongoing liaison with Paint Manufactureʹs Association, Aerosol Manufactureʹs

Association, Taubmans and Dulux Paints, Australian Retailerʹs Association, Victorian

Retailer’s Association, Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association, Hardware Association of Victoria, various hardware chains including Bunnings and Mitre 10

and numerous transport authorities.

Writing of Final Report.

Chairman spoke at the Aboriginal Drug and Alcohol Community Forum meeting on

16 April 2002.

Mr Peter Hood selected by Aboriginal Justice Advisory Council to accompany the

Committee on its evidence collecting visit to New Zealand and act as a consultant to

the Committee on Indigenous issues.

Briefing materials for the evidence collecting visit to Perth prepared.

Arrangements for the evidence collecting visit to Perth finalised.

Public Hearing 9 April 2002

The following witnesses appeared before the Committee:

Mr Paul Millar, BarloWorld Coatings (Taubmans) (In camera)

Ms Janet Jukes, Youth Affairs Council of Victoria

Ms Paul Grogan, Youth Affairs Council of Victoria

Mr David Murray, Executive Officer, Youth Substance Abuse Service

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Mr Andrew Bruin, Youth Substance Abuse Service

Ms Sandra Meredith, Youth Affairs, New Zealand

Superintendent Paul Ditchburn, Victoria Police

Senior Sergeant Tony O’Connor, Victoria Police

Public Hearing 30 April 2002


Mr Greg Porter, Acting Executive Director, Victorian Retailers Association

Ms Lisa Hurley, Marketing Officer, Victorian Retailers Association

Mr Kim Elliot, Australian Automotive After Market Association

Ms Carolyn Bennett, Executive Officer, Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association

Mr Neos Zavrou, President, Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association

Mr Gordon Storey, Board Member, Victorian Alcohol and Drug Association

Ms Colleen Clare, Executive Officer, Children’s Welfare Victoria

Mr Peter McDougall, Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service

Mr Peter Hood, ATSIC (Victoria)

Ms Marion Hansen, ATSIC

Hardware/Timber Associations

Ms Anne Maree Rogers, Project Manager, Breathing Easy Project

(Salvation Army Eastcare)

Mr Chris Walsh, Project Officer, Breathing Easy Project (Salvation Army Eastcare)

Mr Tony Kennedy, Regional Youth Services (Northern Region), Anglicare

Ms Sharyn Scott, Darebin City Council (Can it Project)

Ms Gina Mancuso, Darebin City Council (Can it Project)

Evidence collecting visit to Sydney, 26 April 2002.


Mr Philip Fleming, Executive Director, Aerosol Association of Australia Inc.

Mr Lindsay Showyin, President, Aerosol Association of Australia Inc.

Mr Michael Hambrook, Executive Director, Australian Paint Manufacturer’s

Federation Inc.

Mr Stan Moore, Policy Director, Australian Retailers Association

Ms Yvonne Anderson, Executive Director, Hardware Association of New South Wales

Dr Don Weatherburn, Director, NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research

Dr Margaret Hartley, Chief Executive Officer, National Industrial Chemicals Notification

and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS)

Study tour to New Zealand 9‐12 April 2002 involving site visits and discussions with the

following representatives:

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Russell Phillips and representatives from Te Whanau O Waipareira Trust Maori

Alcohol and Drug Service

Marie Rangiawha‐Rautangata, Hamilton Safer Community Council

Maha Paki, Manager Maatua Whangai, Youth Justice

Ned Cook, Manager Community Development – Hamilton City Council

Joe Tepuhi, Alcohol and Drug Counsellor

Hauora Waikato, Maori Mental Health Services

Tony Westbrook, Researcher – Waikato University

Andre McLachlan, Programme Supervisor – The Hub Community Youth Centre

Rongo Atea

Minoaka Kapaahiwalani Fitzsimmons, Manager, Youth Maori Alcohol and Drug

Residential Centre

Hinengaro Davis, Therapist

Tony Westbrook, Researcher,Waikato University

Judge David Carruthers, Chief Judges Chambers

Meeting with Health Officials and Members of the Interagency Committee on Drugs

(IACD)

National Drug Policy Unit Representatives

Chris Laurenson, team leader

Andrew Zielinski and Kate Rockpool, Senior Analysts

Brendon Baker and Nicola Holden, Analysts

IACD Representatives

Alison Stephens and Rachael Cole, Ministry of Justice

Lael Sharland and a second representative, Department of Child Youth and Family

Services

Tony Coyle, Department of Corrections

Dale Walker, Te Puni Kokiri, Ministry of Maori Development

Sally Jackman, Director – New Zealand Drug Foundation

Darrell Hinga, Clinical Manager – Well Trust

Rosie Casey, Clinical Director – Wellington Hanmer Clinic

Sue Blythe, National Society Alcohol and Drugs Counselling and Residential Service

Anne Carter, Chief Executive, Ministry of Youth Affairs

Meeting with treatment workers including local Maori Alcohol and Drug workers

Venue: Odyssey House (Residential treatment service)

Taha Programme, Queen Mary Hospital

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Future Activity

Consider and adopt Final Report.

INQUIRY INTO MOTOR VEHICLE THEFT

Reference from the Legislative Council on Wednesday 21 November 2001, to inquire into,

consider and report by 31 October 2002 on the causes for, and effect of, the significant

increase in the rate of vehicle theft in Victoria, including the so‐called “re‐birthing” of

stolen vehicles, and to make recommendations as to how vehicle theft may be addressed.


Research proposal for the Inquiry adopted.

Background research and data collection completed.

Structure of the Final Report prepared and adopted.

Writing of the Final Report underway.

Public Hearing dates scheduled.

Arrangements for evidence collecting visit to Perth April 2002 made.

Briefing materials for visit to Perth prepared.

Future Activities

Public Hearings to be held on 21 May 2002.

Evidence collecting visit to Perth, 30 April‐2 May 2002.

Site visits in Melbourne to be organised.

INQUIRY INTO WHITE COLLAR CRIME

Received from the Legislative Assembly on Wednesday 28 November 2001, for inquiry,

consideration and report by 30 September 2002 on:

(a) The extent and nature of fraud and white‐collar crime in Victoria;

(b) The impact of new technology supporting e‐commerce on the opportunities for

fraud;

(c) The current and proposed state, commonwealth and international strategies and

initiatives in relation to dealing with fraud and white‐collar crime, and

(d) The need for policy and legislative reform to combat fraud and white‐collar crime in

Victoria.

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Activity during April 2002

Awaiting response from Minister for Corrections relating to the request that

consideration be made to providing more specific terms of reference for the Inquiry.

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE




Website: http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/edc

Members:

(Council) The Hons R A Best, A Coote, G R Craige, K Darveniza, N B Lucas,

J M McQuilten and T C Theophanous.

Chairman: The Hon N B Lucas, PSM MLC

Executive Officer: Mr R A Willis

INQUIRY INTO THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF THE GOODS AND SERVICES TAX

ON THE COMPETITIVENESS OF SMALL AND MEDIUM SIZED BUSINESSES

Terms of Reference received from the Governor in Council on 29 February 2000.

The Committee tabled its Final Report in Parliament on 12 June 2001.

INQUIRY INTO EXPORT OPPORTUNITIES FOR VICTORIAN RURAL

INDUSTRIES

Terms of Reference received from Legislative Council on 1 March 2000.

Report due Spring Session 2002.

Informal meeting held with exporters in Mildura.

Informal meetings held with Austrade and the Department of Natural Resources &

Environment, Agribusiness Section.

Strategy paper prepared outlining proposed inquiry direction and timetable.

Chairman and Executive Officer attended Agribusiness Forum Summit in Healesville on 28

March 2001.

Regional Hearings held in Horsham and Nhill (27‐28 August) and on‐site visit to Wimmera

Grain Company in Rupanyup on 27 August.

Regional Hearings held in Lancefield and Heathcote (11‐12 September). On‐site visit to

Dalhousie Fine Foods (12 September)

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Evidence received from Austrade in Melbourne on 24 September.

In‐camera meeting with DNRE Agribusiness Division on 24 September.

Regional hearings and on‐site visits in North‐East Victoria (1‐2 October).

Regional hearings held in Korumburra and Traralgon on 26 November 2001.

Regional hearings held in Bendigo, Boort, Swan Hill and Kerang on 12 and 13 December

2001.


Summary of evidence and scheduling of future public hearings.

Future Activity

Visit to Adelaide on 22 & 23 May 2002 to investigate South Australian Government’s

success in marketing food exports.

INQUIRY INTO STRUCTURAL CHANGES IN THE VICTORIAN ECONOMY

Terms of Reference issued by Governor in Council on 29 February 2000.

Report due first sitting day of Spring 2001 sitting (see below).

Terms of Reference advertised on 13 November seeking written submissions. Letters sent

out to over 350 organisations and individuals.

49 written submissions received to date.

Interim Report tabled in Legislative Council on 16 August 2001. Final report to be

completed in Autumn 2002 Session.

Public hearings conducted on 13 August 2001. Evidence received from Australia Post,

Department of Infrastructure – Public Transport and Office of Local Government.

Public hearings conducted on 22 August 2001. Evidence received from Public Transport

Users Group and Department of Employment, Education and Training – Employment

Division.

Regional hearings conducted in Ararat, Horsham, Edenhope, Nhill, Warracknabeal and

Avoca from 27‐29 August.

Regional hearings conducted in Lancefield (11 September), Rochester (12 September) and

Heathcote (12 September).

Regional public hearings held in Rutherglen on 1 October 2001.

Evidence received from Victorian Local Governance Association on 24 October 2001.

Evidence received from Local Government Professionals Inc., City of Moreland and Telstra

Country Wide on 19 November 2001.

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Regional hearings conducted in Korumburra on 26 November 2001.

Visit to Welshpool & District Rural Transaction Centre on 26 November 2001.

Regional hearings held in Bendigo and Boort on 12 December 2001.


A number of deliberative meetings held to consider draft final report.

Future Activity

Report to be adopted and tabled mid to late May 2002.

INQUIRY INTO YOUTH UNEMPLOYMENT

Terms of Reference received from Legislative Council on 1 March 2000.

Report due 31 December 2002.

On 18 September 2001 the Legislative Council resolved that the reporting deadline for the

Youth Unemployment Inquiry be amended to now require the Committee to report by

the end of the 2002 Spring sitting.


Advertisement placed in major newspapers on 6 April 2002 calling for written

submissions. Extensive mail out undertaken. Submissions close 24 May 2002.

Future Activities

Receipt of submissions.

Initial meetings and background briefings to be organised.

Committee seeking approval to undertake study tour of Europe to investigate innovative

youth unemployment policy initiatives in various countries.

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ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES

COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne, 3000



Website: http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/enrc

Members:

(Council) The Hons R F Smith and Graeme Stoney.

(Assembly) Mr H Delahunty, Ms J T Duncan, Mrs C A Fyffe, Ms J M Lindell and

Mr G Seitz.

Chairman: Mr G Seitz, MP

Executive Officer: Mr B Miles

SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF THE VICTORIAN ABALONE AND ROCK

LOBSTER FISHERIES

Referred to the Committee by the Legislative Council on 1 March 2000 under section 4F (1)

(a) (i) of the Parliamentary Committees Act 1968.

The Committee has resolved to undertake the inquiry concurrently with its inquiry into

fisheries management across Victoria (see below).

FISHERIES MANAGEMENT

Referred to the Committee by Order of the Governor in Council published in the

Government Gazette (on 29 February 2000) under section 4F (1) (a) (ii) of the

Parliamentary Committees Act 1968.

Also referred to the Committee by the Legislative Assembly on 14 March 2000 under section

4F (1) (a) (i) of the Parliamentary Committees Act 1968.

The Committee resolved to undertake the inquiry concurrently with its inquiry into the

sustainable management of the Victorian abalone and rock lobster industries.

Briefing by Minister and Shadow Minister.

Advertisements placed in national and statewide press for research officer to assist the

inquiry.

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Advertisements in metropolitan and country Victoria newspapers announcing

commencement of the Inquiry.

Media release prepared and distributed.

Discussions with senior representatives of Northern Territory fishing sector and agencies ‐

Amateur Fisherman’s Association, Northern Territory Seafood Council, Marine and

Fisheries Enforcement Unit, NT Department of Primary Industry and Fisheries. Also

briefing and inspection of the Darwin Aquaculture Centre.

Briefing given by the Executive Officer to the Fisheries Co‐Management Council.

Briefing given by the Executive Officer to Seafood Industry Victoria

Appointment of consultant to assist preparation of Discussion Paper.

Publication and distribution of discussion paper.

Call for submissions.

Media release and advertisements placed advising of release of discussion paper and

inviting submissions.

Appointment of new research officer to assist with the Inquiry.

Submission period extended to 22 December 2000.

Second printing of the Discussion Paper and further distribution.

Study tour to New Zealand involving inspections and discussions held with representatives

of the New Zealand Recreational Fishing Council, NZ Marine Transport Association

(fishing and cruise charter operators), the Ministry of Fisheries, the Kaumatua and

Kaitiaki tribes (Maori customary fishing rights), Department of Conservation (marine

reserves), University of Auckland’s Leigh Marine Research Station, Fish and Game NZ

(freshwater fisheries), Sealord Group Ltd, Challenger Scallop Enhancement Company,

Port Nelson Ltd, Treaty of Waitangi Fisheries Commission, National Institute of Water

and Atmospheric Research (stock assessment), Rock Lobster and Paua (abalone)

commercial fisheries, and the NZ Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment.

Assessment of written submissions.

Inspections and discussions in South Gippsland and Western Port – with representatives of

the Shire of South Gippsland, Southern Shark and Gill Net Fisherman’s Association (fish

habitat), Port Franklin fishers (codes of practice), Lang Lang Coast Action Group

(seagrass beds), and the Kilcunda Abalone Farm (public water aquaculture).

Inspections and discussions in Melbourne ‐ Melbourne Fish Market (managers and agents),

fish processing plants (Lonimar P/L and Australian Sea Urchins P/L) and restaurant

sector (John Rubira).

Inspections and discussions in Central Victoria – Snobs Creek Research Station and

Hatchery, Goulburn River Trout P/L (trout aquaculture), Goulburn Valley Fly‐Fishing

Centre, and Australian Aquaculture Products (warm water recirculation‐system

aquaculture).

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Public Hearing in Alexandra – Nagambie Angling Club, Goulburn Valley Fly‐Fishing

Centre Inc, Goulburn River Trout P/L, Goulburn Valley Association of Angling Clubs

Inc, Fisheries Co‐management Council – research issues.

Inspections and discussions in East Gippsland – estuarine fishery issues (Lake Tyers Beach

Sports Angling Club, East Gippsland Estuarine Fish Association, and Lake Tyers

Aboriginal Trust), eastern zone scallop boat (Scott Horden), processing and wholesale

sectors (Consol Fish), trawl boat (Chris Newman), fish charter boat (Peter Euman), local

compliance issues (Department of Natural Resources and Environment), water quality

and catchment issues (Gippsland Coastal Board), eel fishery (East Coast Eels P/L) and

goldfish aquaculture (Boolarra Fish Farms P/L).

Public Hearing at Lakes Entrance – Gippsland Lakes Bait Fishery Association, Mr Scott

Horton, East Gippsland Fishermans Association, Mr Roger Bilney, Mr Lyton Barr, Mr

Tom Davies, Gippsland Coastal Board, Lake Tyers Beach Sports Angling Club.

Inspections and discussions in western Victoria – live fish fishing (Rob Davies), western

zone rock lobster boat (Rod McDonald), processing plant (Sou‐West Seafoods), abalone

boat (Len McCall) and abalone processing (South West Seafoods), native fish hatchery

(Wartook Native Fish Culture), and native fish angling (Wimmera Anglers Association).

Public Hearing in Portland – Portland Professional Fishermans Association, Western Zone

Wrasse Association, Mr Tony Crapper, Ms Robyn Curtis, Mr Dennis Jeffs, Mirimbiak

National Aboriginal Corporation, Mr David Johnston, Mr Rod McDonald, Portland

Angling Club, Framlingham Aboriginal Trust, Mr Andrew Levings, Mr Don Edmonson,

Mr Vincent Gannon, Mr Jamie Espie, Mr Rod Crowther, Fisheries Co‐Management

Council (mainly consultation issues).

Public Hearing in Melbourne – Mr Anthony Amis, Mr Tony Hocking, Mr John Dougall,

Lonimar P/L, Mr Mark Nowak, Mr Peter Kidd, Goulburn‐Murray Water, Mr David

Fitzpatrick, VRFish, Mr Nik Phizacklea, Mr Tim Mirabella, Victorian National Parks

Association, Victorian Aquaculture Council.

Second Public Hearing in Melbourne – Victorian Abalone Divers Association, Victorian

Abalone Processor’s Association, Eastern Zone Rock Lobster Association, Mr John

Barnett, Mr Brian Bolding, Ms Tia Navanteri, Victorian Fishing Charter Association,

Community and Public Sector Union, Seafood Industry Victoria, Mr Cyril Mitchell, Mr

Ron Lewis, Native Fish Australia, Corner Inlet Fisheries Habitat Association, Lang Lang

Coast Action Group, Fisheries Co‐Management Council, Fisheries Victoria.

Confidential hearing – various witnesses regarding enforcement issues.

Additional public hearing – Mr John Hammond, Tasmanian Rock Lobster fisher and Prof

Tor Hundloe, Fisheries academic and economist.

Assessment of written submissions and public hearing evidence.

Discussions with Canberra based agencies: Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and

Forestry, Bureau of Rural Sciences, Australian Fisheries Management Authority, and

Environment Australia.

Consideration of issues arising from the written submissions and the hearings.

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Preparation of consultancy brief for the assessment of evidence regarding rock lobster

stocks.

Engagement of consultant to assist with the preparation of the draft report.

Preparation and consideration of draft report.

Adoption of First Report: Co‐management.

First Report tabled in the Legislative Council on 5 December 2001.

First Report tabled in the Legislative Assembly on 26 February 2002.


Drafting and consideration of the Second Report (to cover the remainder of the Terms

of Reference) continued.

Future Activities

Await Government response to First Report, due June 2002.

Adoption and tabling of Second Report.

ALLOCATION OF WATER RESOURCES FOR AGRICULTURAL AND

ENVIRONMENTAL PURPOSES

Referred to the Committee by the Legislative Council on 1 March 2000 under section 4F (1)

(a) (i) of the Parliamentary Committees Act 1968.

Interim Report tabled in Parliament (Legislative Council – 28 November 2000, Legislative

Assembly – 27 February 2001)

Inquiry Report tabled in Parliament on 21 November 2001.

Future Activity

Await Government response, due May 2002.

ADEQUACY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF VETERINARY PATHOLOGY SERVICES

Referred to the Committee by the Governor in Council on 20 March 2001 under section 4F

of the Parliamentary Committees Act 1968.

Work commenced on the Inquiry in January 2001.

Research Officer appointed to assist with the Inquiry.

Scoping paper and work plan prepared.

Commencement of Inquiry advertised.

Ministerial Briefing

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Committee inspected the facilities at the Victorian Institute of Animal Science at Attwood

and at Gribbles Veterinary Pathology at Clayton.

Discussion paper adopted and released.

Media release prepared and distributed.

Call for Submissions advertised.


Regional inspections arranged.

Public hearings advertised.

Development of survey of veterinary practitioners commenced.

Future Activities

Regional inspections.

Bendigo public hearing 2 May 2002.

Submission period closes 22 May 2002.

Melbourne public hearings 3 and 17 June 2002.

MANAGEMENT OF THE FISHING CHARTER INDUSTRY IN VICTORIA

Referred to the Committee by the Governor in Council on 5 June 2001 under section 4F of

the Parliamentary Committees Act 1968.

Inquiry commenced March 2002.

Research Officer appointed to assist with the Inquiry.


Scoping paper and work plan prepared.

Preparation of discussion paper commenced.

Tabling date revised to the last week of the Spring 2002 Parliamentary Sittings.

Future Activities

Ministerial briefing.

Adoption and release of discussion paper.

Call for submissions.

Regional inspections.

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IMPROVING THE PROCEDURES FOR THE ACQUISITION OF PRIVATE LAND

FOR USE AS A PARK

Referred to the Committee by the Legislative Council on 21 November 2001 under section

4F of the Parliamentary Committees Act 1968.


Background research commenced.

IMPACT, MANAGEMENT AND USE OF CARP

Referred to the Committee by the Legislative Assembly on 28 November 2001 under section

4F of the Parliamentary Committees Act 1968.


Background research commenced.

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FAMILY AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

COMMITTEE




Website: http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/fcdc

Members:

(Council) The Hons E J Powell, G D Romanes and Dr J W G Ross

(Assembly) Mr B P Hardman, Mr H Lim, Mr D A Nardella, and Mrs I Peulich

Chairman: Mr H Lim, MP

Executive Officer: Mr P L Bourke

MARKETPLACE DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN CONSUMERS AND ITS

EFFECTS ON THE ECONOMIC WELLBEING OF WOMEN

Referred by Governor in Council on 18 April 2000.

Witnesses appearing before the Committee‐

Representatives from Consumer and Business Affairs Victoria, Mr. Denis Fitzgerald,

Assistant Director, Policy and Information; Ms Dianne Bryans, Manager, Assessment

and Analysis Branch, Consumer Services and Compliance Division; Ms Kristen Murray,

Policy Officer.

Representatives from the Equal Opportunity Commission, Dr Dianne Sisely, Chief

Executive and Mr. Ben Rice, Research Officer.

Representatives from the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, Mr Michael

Levine, Deputy President, Civil Claims List and Ms Anne Coghlan, Deputy President,

Discrimination List.

Ms Sandra Campitelli, General Manager, Hairdressing and Beauty Industry Association.

Mr Timothy Piper, Executive Director and Ms Lisa Hurley, Marketing Officer,

Australian Retailers Association.

Site Visit with the Drycleaning Institute of Australia to Bancroft’s Dry Cleaner’s, South

Yarra.

Ms Virginia Redding, Westpac Bank and Ms Amanda Ellis, Bank of Melbourne

Mr Edward Beale and Ms Ursula Prendergast, Edward Beale Salons

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Witnesses appearing at Public Hearings

Mr Colin Neave, Australian Banking Industry Ombudsman

Ms Jenny Lawton, Financial and Consumer Rights Council of Victoria

Ms Sandra Campitelli, Hairdressing and Beauty Industry Association

Ms Mary Crooks & Ms Gemma Morgan, Victorian Women’s Trust

Mr Michael Meere, Dry Cleaning Institute of Victoria

Ms Leyla Yilmaz, Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce

Ms Allyson Foster & Ms Catriona Lowe, Women’s Legal Service & Consumer Law

Centre

Report tabled in Parliament on 28 November 2001.

Future Activity

Await Government response, due May 2002.

OUTWORKERS IN THE CLOTHING INDUSTRY

Referred by the Legislative Assembly on 28 November 2001

Witnesses appearing at Public Hearings

Dr. Christina Cregan, Senior Lecturer, Department of Management, University of

Melbourne.

Michele O’Neil, State Secretary, Annie Delaney, Outwork Coordinator, Textile, Clothing

and Footwear Union of Australia.

Tony McDonald, Acting Executive Director, Council of Textile and Fashion Industries of

Australia Limited.

Dr Mike Nahan, Executive Director, Ken Phillips, Senior Officer, Institute of Public

Affairs.

Vanthida Lao, Officer, Khmer Community of Victoria.

Pamela Curr, Director, Fairwear Campaign Victoria.


Drafting of Briefing Papers.

Review of Discussion Paper.

Organisation of Sydney Hearings.

Future Activities

Release of Discussion Paper.

Witness testimony.

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QUALITY OF CARE AND EFFICIENT SEPARATION OF PATIENTS IN

VICTORIAN HOSPITALS

Referred by the Legislative Council on 21 November 2001

Inquiry has not yet commenced.

NEIGHBOURHOOD HOUSES AND THEIR ROLE IN REALISING ONE

COMMUNITY

Referred by Governor in Council on 20 November 2001


CURRENT FORMS OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT BY VICTORIAN

COUNCILS

Referred by Legislative Assembly 28 November 2001


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LAW REFORM COMMITTEE




Website: http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/lawreform

Members:

(Council) The Hons R H Bowden, D G Hadden and P A Katsambanis.

(Assembly) Mr T Languiller, Ms A L McCall, Mr R E Stensholt and

Mr M H Thompson.

Chairman: Mr M H Thompson, MP

Executive Officer: Ms M L Mason

REVIEW OF LEGAL SERVICES IN REGIONAL AND RURAL VICTORIA

Referred by Governor in Council on 29 February 2000 and by the Legislative Assembly on

14 March 2000.

REVIEW OF COURT‐BASED SERVICES IN REGIONAL AND RURAL VICTORIA

Referred by the Legislative Council on 1 March 2000.

[Because of the similarity of these references, the Committee has decided to combine and

conduct the inquiries concurrently]

The Final Report was tabled in the Legislative Assembly on 31 May 2001 and in the

Legislative Council on 5 June 2001.

Future Activity

Await Government response, due November 2001.

REVIEW OF THE POWERS OF ENTRY, SEARCH, SEIZURE AND QUESTIONING

BY AUTHORISED PERSONS

Referred by the Governor in Council on 18 April 2001.

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Draft considered by Committee. Re‐writing and editing continues.

Transcripts of public hearings placed on the Committee website.

Future Activities

Adoption and Tabling of Report.

Submissions received in electronic form placed on the Committee website.

INQUIRY INTO FORENSIC SAMPLING AND THE USE OF DNA DATABASES IN

CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS

Referred by the Legislative Council on 21 November 2001.


Legal Research Officer selected and appointed.

Consultant appointed to prepare background paper on the legal and ethical aspects of

DNA databases.

Future Activities

Engagement of a second consultant to prepare a background paper on the technical and

practical aspects of DNA databases.

Research Officer to commence preliminary research.

Preparation of a background or issues paper for public distribution.

Advertise reference and call for submissions.

Identify witnesses and prepare for public hearings.

INQUIRY INTO POSSIBLE MANDATORY CODES FOR CONSUMER PROTECTION

IN CERTAIN INDUSTRIES

Referred by the Legislative Assembly on 28 November 2001.


INQUIRY INTO THE ADMINISTRATION AND PROBATE ACT 1958



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INQUIRY INTO THE SYSTEM OF OATHS AND OATH TAKING AND THE MAKING

OF STATUTORY DECLARATIONS AND AFFIDAVITS WITH REFERENCE TO THE

MULTICULTURAL COMMUNITY


Inquiry has not yet commenced. However, a number of meetings were held with relevant

agencies during the recent Committee overseas study tour, the most comprehensive

being with the UK Judicial Studies Board.

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PUBLIC ACCOUNTS AND ESTIMATES COMMITTEE




Website: http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/paec/default.htm

Members:

(Council) The Hons D M Davis, R M Hallam (Deputy Chairman), G K Rich‐Phillips

and T C Theophanous

(Assembly) Ms A P Barker, Mr R W Clark, Ms S M Davies, Mr T J Holding,

Mr P J Loney and Mrs J M Maddigan.

Chairman: Mr P J Loney, MP

Executive Officer: Ms M Cornwell

UNFUNDED SUPERANNUATION LIABILITIES IN VICTORIAN UNIVERSITIES

Source of reference: Parliamentary Committees Act 1968, section 4F(1)(b).

Report No. 39 tabled in the Parliament on 22 March 2001.

Report distributed on 23 March 2001.

On 23 March 2001 Chairman wrote to the Chairman of the Australasian Council of

Auditors‐General seeking comments on issues raised in the report.

On 30 July 2001, response received from the Convenor of the Australasian Council of

Auditors‐General.

On 2 November 2001, the Secretary of the Department of Treasury and Finance advised that

an issue proposal was being prepared to the Urgent Issues Group of the Australian

Accounting Standards Board to resolve the matters raised in the Committee’s report.

2001‐2002 BUDGET ESTIMATES

Source of reference: Parliamentary Committees Act 1968, section 4F(1)(b)

Draft report considered by the full Committee on 13 and 14 November 2001.

Report adopted with amendments.

Report No. 43 tabled in Parliament on 27 November 2001.

The full text of the report is on the PAEC Homepage.

27

On 29 November 2001, report distributed to all Ministers and Departments.

Future Activity

Governmentʹs response due 27 May 2002.

2000‐2001 BUDGET OUTCOMES


Review of departmental annual reports commenced.

Draft questions for Departments of Premier and Cabinet; Human Services; Education; and

Infrastructure prepared and forwarded to Chairman to review.

On 11 January 2002, questions relating to 2000‐2001 Budget Outcomes forwarded to

Departments, the Presiding Officers of the Parliament and the Victorian Auditor‐

General’s Office.

Chapters 1 and 2 of the draft report prepared.

Responses due 28 February 2002.

Responses to questionnaire received during March 2002 from the Departments of Human

Services; Natural Resources and Environment; Premier and Cabinet; State and Regional

Development; and Treasury and Finance; the Parliamentary Departments; and the

Victorian Auditor‐General’s Office.


Responses to Committee’s questionnaire received from the Department of Education,

Employment and Training on 23 April 2002; the Department of Infrastructure on

22 April 2002 (further material still to be provided); and the Department of Justice on

16 April 2002.

Chapters 3 to 5 of the draft report prepared.

Future Activities

Draft report to be completed.

Draft report to be considered by the full Committee in May 2002.

2002‐2003 BUDGET ESTIMATES


On 12 February 2002, estimates questionnaire distributed to all departments and the

Environment Protection Authority.

On 26 February 2002, estimates questionnaire distributed to the newly created Department

of Tourism, Sport and the Commonwealth Games.

28


Background research continued for estimates hearings.

Future Activities

Public hearings scheduled for:

DATE AND TIME PORTFOLIOS

Friday, 17 May 2002 10.00 am to 1.00 pm

Premier and Minister for Multicultural Affairs

Wednesday, 22 May 2002 9.30 am to 12.30 pm

Treasurer, Minister for State and Regional Development, and Minister for Innovation

Wednesday, 22 May 2002 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm

Minister for Small Business and Minister for Information & Communication Technology

Thursday, 23 May 2002 9.30 am to 12.30 pm

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Agriculture

Thursday, 23 May 2002 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm

Minister for Finance and Minister for Industrial Relations

Friday, 24 May 2002 9.30 am to 12.30 pm

Minister for Gaming, Minister for Tourism and Minister for Employment

Friday, 24 May 2002 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm

Minister for Consumer Affairs and Minister for Senior Victorians

Tuesday, 18 June 2002 9.30 am to 12.30 pm

Minister for Planning, Minister for the Arts and Minister for Women’s Affairs

Tuesday, 18 June 2002 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm

Minister for Transport and Minister for Major Projects

Thursday, 20 June 2002 9.30 am to 12.30 pm

Attorney-General, Minister for Manufacturing Industry and Minister for Racing

Thursday, 20 June 2002 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm

Minister for Education and Training and Minister for Education Services

Friday, 21 June 2002 9.30 am to 12.30 pm

Minister for Health (rescheduled from Tuesday, 21 May at 9.30 am)

Friday, 21 June 2002 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm

Minister for Ports and Minister for Energy and Resources

29

Tuesday, 25 June 2002 9.30 am to 12.30 pm

Minister for WorkCover and Minister for Local Government

Tuesday, 25 June 2002 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm

Minister for Environment and Conservation

Wednesday, 26 June 9.30 am to 12.30 pm

Minister for Sport and Recreation and Minister for the Commonwealth Games

Wednesday, 26 June 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm

Presiding Officers of the Parliament

Thursday, 27 June 2002 9.30 am to 12.30 pm

Minister for Community Services, Minister for Housing and Minister for Community Building (rescheduled from Wednesday, 19 June at 9.30 am)

Friday, 28 June 2002 9.30 am to 12.30 pm

Minister for Youth Affairs

Tuesday, 2 July 2002 9.30 am to 12.30 pm

Minister for Police and Emergency Services and Minister for Corrections

Organise budget briefing for Members of Parliament on 9 May 2002.

Responses to estimates questionnaire due by 13 May 2002.

Briefing papers to be prepared for each portfolio.

Public hearings to be held.

Draft report to be prepared.

REVIEW OF AUDITOR‐GENERAL’S REPORTS


On 28 November 2001, Report No. 44 relating to the Review of the Auditor‐General’s Report

No. 43 (Protecting Victoria’s Children: the role of the Department of Human Services)

tabled in the Parliament.

The full text of the report is on the PAEC Homepage.

On 29 November 2001, report distributed to relevant Ministers and Departments.

Briefing papers being prepared on Performance Audit Reports No. 51 (Victorian Rural

Ambulance Services) and No. 65 (Reducing Landfill – Waste Management by Municipal

Councils).

30

On 7 March 2002, the Auditor‐General was requested to provide an update on progress

made with implementing recommendations contained in Performance Audit Reports

Nos. 51 and 65.

Future Activities

Government response to Committee’s Report No. 44 due 28 May 2002.

Full Committee to consider briefing papers on the follow‐up review of two Auditor‐

General’s reports.

ENVIRONMENTAL ACCOUNTING AND REPORTING


Interim Report (No 31) tabled on 3 June 1999. Report also available on the Internet.

Submissions received concerning the recommendations contained in the Interim report.

Government response tabled on 2 December 1999.

Committee considered a briefing paper on 23 March 2000, which proposed terms of

reference for the follow‐up Inquiry.

Terms of reference adopted by the Committee on 23 March 2000.

Researching and writing issues paper continued.

Sub‐Committee appointed on 12 April 2000.

Issues paper completed.

Mailing lists compiled.

On 23 May 2000, the Executive Officer and Research Officer attended a seminar on

environmental reporting organised by the Institution of Engineers.

Issues paper and work plan for the Inquiry considered by the Sub‐Committee on 8 June and

adopted.

Inquiry advertised on 10 June 2000.

Issues paper and request for submissions sent to government agencies, business and

community groups and interested individuals on 27 June 2000.

42 submissions received.

Deadline for receipt of submissions extended to 21 August 2000.

On 4 August 2000, the Chairman met with the New Zealand Parliamentary Commissioner

for the Environment to discuss matters raised in the Issues Paper.

On 14 August 2000, the Sub‐Committee was briefed by officers of the Department of

Natural Resources and Environment and the Environment Protection Authority.

Public hearing held on 25 August 2000 with:

31

Mr Claudio Senese, Group Manager Corporate Environment Group, Telstra and Ms

Joanne Saleeba, Environmental Analyst, Telstra and Ms Anne Learmonth,

Government Relations Group, Telstra;

Dr David Bowman, Senior Environment Adviser, The Shell Company of Australia;

Mr Chris Davey, Associate Director, Project and Structured Finance, National Australia

Bank;

Dr Jean Raar, Lecturer in Accounting, Faculty of Business and Law, Deakin University;

Ms Toni McCormack, Chief Executive Officer, and Mr Andrew Clooney, Industry

Officer, Victorian Water Industry Association Inc;

Public hearings held on 11 and 12 September 2000 with the following witnesses:

David Sinclair, Group Manager, Environment, Pasminco;

Mr Deane Belfield, Team Leader – Global Environmental Solutions, and Ms Corinne

Proske, PricewaterhouseCoopers;

Dr Fiona Solomon, Research Fellow CSIRO Minerals;

Mr Keith Wiltshire and Dr Ross Ulman, Save Albert Park;

Mr Peter Christoff, Lecturer ‐ Department of Geography and Environmental Sciences,

University of Melbourne;

Mr Simon Molesworth, AM, QC President, Environment Institute of Australia;

Dr Neil Byron, Productivity Commissioner, and Mr Robert Kerr, Head of Office,

Productivity Commission;

Ms Libby Chaplin, Co‐convenor, and Mr Trevor Thornton, Victorian Network

Environment Management Industry Association of Australia;

Dr Phillip Johnstone, Manager Environmental Policy, Bayside City Council, and

representing the Metropolitan Environment Forum of the International Council for

Local Environmental Initiatives;

Professor David Yencken, Environment Liaison Office (Victorian National Parks

Association, Australian Conservation Foundation, Friends of the Earth, Environment

Victoria, and The Wilderness Society Victoria);

Cr. L. Johnstone, and Mr Peter Lyon, Senior Policy Advisor – Environment, Municipal

Association of Victoria;

Mr Terence Jeyaretnam, Manager, Corporate Environmental Services, and Mr Ken Fung,

Manager, Planning and Environment, Snowy Mountains Engineering Corporation

On 9 October 2000, public hearing held with the following witnesses:

Ms Michonne Van Rees ‐ Executive Director, Parks Flora and Fauna, Department of

Natural Resources and Environment (DNRE);

Mr Peter Sutherland ‐ Executive Director, Catchment and Water, DNRE;

Mr Steve Jacoby ‐ Director, Land Information Group, DNRE; and

32

Mr David Parkes, Policy Analyst, DNRE;

Cr. Julie Hanson, President, Victorian Local Governance Association;

Cr. Don Chambers, Vice‐President, Victorian Local Governance Association;

Mr Bernie Potter and Mr Stephen Ray, Environs Australia;

Ms Louise Hicks, Lawyer, Maddock, Lonie and Chisholm;

Mr Phillip Sutton, Green Innovations Inc;

Mr Rob Joy ‐ Executive Director, and Mr Terry A’Hearn ‐ Manager, Policy Co‐ordination

Branch, Environment Protection Authority;

Mr Stan Neild, Manager, Legislation Review, Mr Gerard Meade, Chairman, Legislative

Review Board, Mr Colin Parker, Director‐Accounting and Audit, CPA Australia, and

Mr Ian Nash, The Institute of Chartered Accountants in Australia;

Sub‐Committee met with the following witnesses in Sydney on 17 October and in Canberra

on 18 October 2000:

Mr Drew Collins ‐ Executive Director, Economics and Environmental Reporting, and Mr

Peter Maganov, NSW Environment Protection Authority;

Ms Vivienne Filling ‐ General Manager, Environment and Energy Services and Mr David

Bell ‐ Public Environmental Reporting Extension Officer, Australian Industry Group;

Ms Jan Lee‐Martin – Director, The Futures Foundation;

Ms Myra Craig ‐ Manager, Policy and Research Branch, NSW Department of Local

Government;

Mr Robert Verhey, NSW Local Government and Shires Associations;

Mr Marc Newson ‐ Principal Consultant on Environmental Accounting,

PricewaterhouseCoopers, and Member of the Environmental Accounting Taskforce,

Institute of Chartered Accountants;

Associate Professor Gregory Rose ‐ Faculty of Law, University of Wollongong;

Associate Professor Ronnie Harding ‐ Director, Institute of Environmental Studies,

University of New South Wales; and Dr Stephen Dovers ‐ Fellow, Centre for Resource

and Environmental Studies, Australian National University;

Dr Steve Hatfield‐Dodds ‐ Director, and Ms T. Brierly, Environmental Economics Unit,

Environment Australia;

Dr Helen Sims ‐ Office Manager, Office of the Commissioner for the Environment,

Australian Capital Territory;

Mr Con Boekel ‐ Head, Environment and Technology Strategies Branch; and Ms Jenny

Boshier ‐ Director, State of Environment Reporting Section, Environment Australia;

Ms Judith Kendrick, Director, Financial Sector Projects Branch, Mr David Pinch, Assistant

Director, Sustainable Industries Branch, Environment Australia;

Mr Duncan Paterson – Researcher, Corporate Ethics, Australian Ethical Investment Ltd;

33

Mr Dick Osborn ‐ Principal, Green Measures;

Mr Bob Harrison ‐ Director, Environment Statistics Section; and Mr Zia Abbasi ‐ Regional

Director, Victoria, Australian Bureau of Statistics;

Dr Clive Hamilton ‐ Executive Director, The Australia Institute Ltd;

Mr Rob Bastian ‐ Chief Executive, Council of Small Business Organisations of Australia;

Ms Molly Harriss Olson and Mr Phillip Toyne, Directors, EcoFutures.

In February 2001, draft report prepared and forwarded to the Chairman of the Sub‐

Committee to review.

In March 2001, draft report further revised and forwarded to the Chairman of the Sub‐


On 12 April 2001, third version of the draft report forwarded to the Chairman of the Sub‐


Await advice from Chairman of the Sub‐Committee, Hon. Gordon Rich‐Phillips, MLC,

about the revised draft report.

On 28 June 2001, revised draft report forwarded to the Chairman of the Committee to

review.

Draft report updated.

On 22 January 2002, draft report forwarded to Members of the Committee.

Draft report considered at a Sub‐Committee meeting on 6 February 2002.

Draft report adopted with amendments.

Draft report considered at a full Committee meeting on 14 March 2002 and adopted.

On 27 March 2002, Report No. 46 tabled in the Parliament.


Report distributed.

Future Activity

Government response due 27 September 2002.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT REFORM PROGRAM


On 15 February 2001, Chairman gave a presentation on “Examining Government Reporting

Requirements” to an IIR Conference in Canberra.

On 5 April 2001, the Committee met with Dr Sahala Benny Pasaribu from the Indonesian

Parliament to discuss governance and accountability issues relating to the financial

management reform program.

34

On 4 May 2001, the Chairman briefed senior Indonesian public officials on the work of the

Public Accounts and Estimates Committee.

On 29 and 30 May 2001, the Executive Officer attended a conference on Performance

Measures for State and Local Government.

On 1 June 2001, the Chairman met with Mr Martin Peck, MP, Chairman of the New Zealand

Finance and Expenditure Select Committee to discuss financial management issues.

On 18 July 2001, a Member of the Committee, Mrs Maddigan, and the Committee’s

Executive Officer briefed a Member and an Officer of the Gautent Provincial Legislature,

South Africa, on the work of the Committee in relation to financial management issues.

On 15 August 2001, Executive Officer of the Committee participated in a briefing of

Malaysian Government evaluators.

On 6 September 2001, the Chairman briefed Members of a delegation visiting from

Mongolia.

On 17 September 2001, the Chairman and Executive Officer briefed Members of the

Vietnamese Parliamentary Committee on Economic and Budget Affairs.

On 4 October 2001, the Chairman‐elect of the Northern Territory Public Accounts

Committee attended a Committee meeting as an observer.

On 29 October 2001, the Executive Officer of the Committee briefed senior Indonesian

government officials on the role and functions of the Committee.

On 20 November 2001, the Chairman gave a paper on risk management from a governance

perspective at a CPA Government Business Symposium.

On 29 November 2001, the Committee considered and adopted its annual report for 2000‐

2001.

On 3 December 2001, the Committeeʹs annual report for 2000‐2001 tabled in the Legislative

Council.

On 21 February 2002, the Chairman gave a paper on a parliamentary perspective of

performance measures for Government at a conference in Canberra.

On 25 February 2002, the Chairman met with officials from the United States General

Accounting Office to discuss issues relating to the Victorian financial management

reform program.

On 26 February 2002, the Committee’s annual report for 2000‐2001 tabled in the Legislative

Assembly.

Future Activity

On 14 May 2002, the Executive Officer of the Committee to brief Mr David Clark, Audit

Manager with the UK National Audit Offices on the work of the Public Accounts and

Estimates Committee.

35

AUSTRALASIAN COUNCIL OF PUBLIC ACCOUNTS COMMITTEES (ACPAC)

In February 2001, Mr Loney, MP appointed Chairman of the Australasian Council of Public

Accounts Committees (ACPAC).

The Chairman and staff of the Public Accounts and Estimates Committee secretariat met

with officials from the Commonwealth Joint Committee on Public Accounts and Audit

for a briefing on the arrangements for the previous ACPAC conference.

Letters sent to all Members of ACPAC seeking information about their meeting

arrangements for February 2002.

Responses received from Members of ACPAC on the preferred date for the mid‐term

meeting.

Delegates advised that the mid‐term meeting will be held on 7 February 2002.

Briefing paper prepared on suggested topics for the ACPAC conference and workshops.

On 14 December 2001, options paper forwarded to delegates for consideration at the mid‐

term meeting.

Administrative arrangements finalised for mid‐term meeting.

Mid‐term meeting of ACPAC held in Melbourne on 7 February 2002.


Further work undertaken on the ACPAC newsletter.

Future Activities

On 27 May 2002, Chairman to give a paper at the conference of the South African

Association of Public Accounts Committees in Kimberley, South Africa.

Speech to be prepared.

Distribute newsletter to all Members of ACPAC.

Plan 7th Biennial Conference of ACPAC in Melbourne from 2 to 5 February 2003

PERFORMANCE AUDIT PROGRAM

Source of reference: Audit Act 1994, section 16(2).

On 23 January 2001, the Sub‐Committee met with the Victorian Chief Commissioner of

Police to take further evidence in connection with the performance audit of Local Priority

Policing.

Auditor‐General’s Reports on Grants to Non‐Government Organisations; Non‐Metropolitan

Water Authorities; and Intellectual Disability Services discussed at Committee meeting

on 8 March 2001.

On 8 March 2001, discussions held with the Auditor‐General concerning the performance

audit program for 2001‐2002.

36

On 26 April 2001, meeting held with the Auditor‐General and senior officers of the Victorian

Auditor‐General’s Office to discuss the performance audit reports on Grants to NGOs;

Non‐Metropolitan Water Authorities and Intellectual Disability Services.

On 8 June 2001, meeting held with officers from the Victorian Auditor‐General’s Office to

discuss the scope of two performance audits on Departmental Performance Management

and Reporting; and Teacher Workforce Planning.

On 26 June 2001, Sub‐Committee suggested changes to the specifications for these audits.

On 26 June 2001, Sub‐Committee meeting held to discuss the scope of performance audits of

Mental Health Services: Crisis Prevention and Response for Adults and Adolescents;

International Students in Victorian Universities; and Investment Attraction and

Facilitation in Victoria.

On 27 June 2001, Sub‐Committee proposed changes to the scope of the performance audit of

International Students in Victorian Universities and requested a briefing from the

Victorian Auditor‐General’s Office on the other two audits.

On 19 July 2001, the Auditor‐General responded to the Sub‐Committee’s suggested changes

to various performance audits.

On 7 August 2001, meeting of the Sub‐Committee held with officers of the Victorian

Auditor‐General’s Office for a briefing on the audits of mental health services; and

investment attraction and facilitation in Victoria.

Briefing papers prepared on performance audit reports on Salinity; and Teaching

Equipment in the TAFE sector.

On 30 November 2001, draft specifications received for the performance audits on nursing

workforce planning; road infrastructure and management in Local Government; and

Environment Protection Authority – Air Quality Review.

Briefing papers on these specifications prepared and circulated to Members of the Sub‐

Committee.

On 11 December 2001, the Committee was briefed by officers of the Victorian Auditor‐

General’s Office on performance audit reports tabled during the 2001 spring session of

Parliament.

On 11 December 2001, the Sub‐Committee on Performance Audits met with officers of the

Victorian Auditor‐General’s Office for a briefing on the proposed performance audits on

nursing workforce planning; road infrastructure and management in Local Government;

and Environment Protection Authority – Review of Air Quality.

On 6 February 2002, the Committee was briefed by the Auditor‐General on the proposed

performance audit plan for 2002.

On 14 March 2002, the Sub‐Committee on Performance Audits was briefed by the Auditor‐

General on the proposed performance audits of dental health and food safety.

37

Future Activities

Draft response to the Auditor‐General’s proposed audit program for 2002‐2003 to be

considered at a meeting of the full Committee on 2 May 2002.

Forward response to the Auditor‐General.

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES – SERVICE AGREEMENTS FOR

COMMUNITY, HEALTH AND WELFARE SERVICES


On 23 March 2000, the Committee considered a briefing paper and adopted terms of

reference for the Inquiry.

On 3 April 2000, the Executive Officer and Research Officer met with Mr Brian Joyce,

Assistant Director, Business Development Branch, Department of Human Services, to

discuss the present arrangements for service agreements.

Inquiry advertised in metropolitan and national newspapers on 15 April 2000.

Requests for submissions forwarded to various Ministers, organisations with Department of

Human Services service agreements, peak community, health and welfare organisations

and other interested individuals.


On 25 May 2000, the Executive Officer and Research Officer met with Mr Shane Solomon,

Director, Policy Development and Planning, Department of Human Services to discuss

the strategy for the Inquiry.

Work plan for the Inquiry adopted.

On 9 June 2000, the Sub‐Committee met with Members of the New Zealand Social Affairs

Committee to discuss the funding arrangements for community, health and welfare

services in New Zealand.

On 16 June 2000, the Chairman and Members of the Sub‐Committee attended a forum for

agencies under the auspice of Catholic Social Services to discuss DHS service agreements.

One hundred and sixty‐one submissions received.

Submissions analysed and key issues identified.

On 24 August 2000, the Sub‐Committee was briefed by Mr S. Solomon, Director of Policy

Development and Planning Division and Mr L. Wallace, Director of Resources Division,

Department of Human Services and by Mr A. McCallum, President, Ms D. Fifer, Chief

Executive Officer and Ms M. Webster, a Board Member of the Victorian Council of Social

Service.

Sub‐Committee sought further information from Department of Human Services on a

number of issues raised in the Department’s submission.

Public hearings held in regional areas with the following witnesses:

38

Bendigo (19 September 2000):

Ms Anne McLennan, ‐ Manager Community Services, Macedon Ranges Shire Council

Mr Alan Taylor ‐ Chief Executive Officer, Cobaw Community Health Service

Mr Geoff Fawkner ‐ Chief Executive Officer, Wattle Human Services

Ms Jan Snell ‐ Manager, Partnerships and Service Planning. DHS Loddon Mallee Region

Office, Bendigo

Ms Kathy Byrne ‐ Chief Executive, Bendigo Health Care Group

Mr Andrew McCallum ‐ Chief Executive Officer, St Lukes Anglicare, Bendigo

Echuca (20 September 2000):

Ms Maxine Brockfield – Manager, Community Health Services, Kyabram and District

Memorial Community Hospital

Ms Pam Whipp ‐ Acting Business Manager, Kyabram Community and Learning Centre

Mr Colin Jones – Nurse Manager, Lockington and District Bush Nursing Centre

Ms Jean Andrews ‐ General Manager, Community and Culture, Shire of Campaspe

Ms J. Hope Black ‐ Hon. President, Northern Disability Services Inc.

Wodonga (21 September 2000):

Mr Luke Rumbold – Director, Upper Murray Family Care

Mrs Nancy Wright – Chairperson, Yarrawonga Neighbourhood House

Mr Mike Jarrett – Coordinator, Disability Advocacy and Information Service

Ms Ruth Tai – Manager, Community Services, Indigo Shire Council, Beechworth

Ms Christine Giles ‐ Director of Nursing, Wangaratta District Base Hospital

Public hearing held in Melbourne on 26 September with the following witnesses:

Ms Margaret Wagstaff ‐ Director, Community Care, Department of Human Services

Mr Malcolm Cooke ‐ Freehill Hollingdale and Page

Ms Margaret Hamley – Director, Social Program Consultancy Unit, The Salvation Army

Mr Dan Romanis ‐ Chief Executive Officer, Mr Richard Alderson – Director, Asset

Management, and Ms Pat McPherson ‐ Policy and Planning Officer, Royal District

Nursing Service.

Private meeting held in Brisbane on 27 September 2000 with the following witnesses:

Ms Helen Gadsden ‐ Senior Policy Officer, Community Services Strategy Secretariat,

Department of Premier and Cabinet

Ms Helen Gadsden, Community Services Strategy Co‐ordinating Group

Ms Shirley Watters, Queensland Council of Social Service

Catherine McDonald and Ms Di Zetlin, The University of Queensland

39

Associate Professor Neal Ryan ‐ Queensland University of Technology.

Public hearing held in Melbourne on 28 September 2000 with the following witnesses:

Mr Chris Pearson ‐ Director of Services, Centacare Catholic Family Services

Ms Annette Coy ‐ Executive Officer, South East Palliative Care Ltd; and

Ms Judie Hind‐Roff ‐ Acting Executive Officer, Peninsula Hospice Service

Ms Mavis Smith ‐ Executive Director, Victorian Healthcare Association

Mr Mark Grant ‐ Infoxchange

Public hearing held in Melbourne on 11 October 2000 with the following witnesses:

Ms Sandra de Wolf, Chief Executive Officer, Berry Street Inc.

Ms Marilyn Webster, Catholic Social Services

Ms Clare Hargreaves, Senior Policy Adviser, Municipal Association of Victoria

Ms Carol Blair, Director, Council Services, Bass Coast Shire Council

Mr Sauro Antonelli, Director, Community Programs, Banyule City Council

Reverend R. Cleary, Melbourne Citymission

Mr J. Fendyk, Director, Aged Care and Disability Services; and

Mr R. Nicholls, Social Policy Officer, Wesley Central Mission.

Public hearing held in Melbourne on 19 October 2000 with the following witnesses:

Ms Dimity Fifer, Chief Executive Officer, Victorian Council of Social Service

Ms Marilyn Webster, Board Member, Victorian Council of Social Service

Ms Angela Were, Operations Manager, Anglicare Victoria

Ms Merial Clark, Executive Officer, Association of Neighbourhood Houses and Learning

Centres

Ms Marilyn Beaumont, Executive Director, Women’s Health Victoria

Ms Licia Kokocinski, Executive Director, Action on Disability within Ethnic

Communities

Ms Hanna Kaiser, Coordinator, Women’s Liberation Halfway House

Ms Zwlle Thlebane, Group Worker, Women’s Liberation Halfway House

Ms Mignon Mant, Chief Executive Officer, O’Connell Family Centre (Grey Sisters) Inc.

Mr Ian Goldsmith, Mercy Health and Aged Care Group

Mr Ross Buscemi, Program Manager, South Central Region Migrant Resource Centre

Reverend David Pargeter, Director, Justice and World Mission, UnitingCare Victoria;

and

Ms Mandy Leveratt, Policy Officer, UnitingCare Victoria

Public hearing held in Melbourne on 8 November 2000 with the following witnesses:

40

Mr Nick Foa, Director, City Services, City of Maroondah

Ms Terry Wilkinson, Manager, Community Services, City of Maroondah

Mr Doug Dalton, Chief Executive Officer, UnitingCare Connections

Ms Lesley Oakley, Director, Outer Southern Region, UnitingCare Connections

Ms Sue Kirkegard, Executive Officer, ACROD

Ms Vici Funnell, Spastic Society of Victoria

Mr Brendan Lillywhite, Vision Australia

Ms Sharon Moore, RMIT University School of Management

Ms Sue Jackson, Executive Officer, Council of Intellectual Disability Agencies

Mr Paul Linossier, Chief Executive Officer, Mackillop Family Services


Mr S. Capp, Chief Executive Officer, Southern Health

Mr C. Putt, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Southern Health

Mr M. Sammells, Chief Finance Officer, Southern Health

Mr R. Hermanus, President, Volunteering Victoria

Mr M. Yore, Director, Good Shepherd Youth and Family Service

Ms M. Kenny, Assistant Director and Youth Coordinator, Good Shepherd Youth and

Family Service

Ms V. Ayres‐Wearne, Social Policy Research Worker, Good Shepherd Youth and Family

Service

Ms C. Clare, Chief Executive Officer, Children’s Welfare Association of Victoria

Mr K. Patterson, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Children’s Welfare Association of

Victoria

Mr C. Marshall, Policy Development Officer, Children’s Welfare Association of Victoria

Mr A. Stripp, Regional Director, Southern Metropolitan Office, Department of Human

Services

Ms F. Milsom, Programs Officer, Aboriginal Affairs Victoria

Professor J. Carter, Deakin University.

Public hearings held in Melbourne on 6 December 2000 with the following witnesses:

Mr Tony Nicholson, Chief Executive Officer, Hanover

Mr David Murray, Policy Director, Jesuit Social Services

Mr Rob Cavanaugh, Manager‐Finance and Administration, Jesuit Social Services

Professor Stephen Duckett, Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences, LaTrobe University

41

Ms Maria Bohan, Executive Director, Carers Association Victoria

Mr Boris Struk, Executive Director, Muscular Dystrophy Association

Public hearing held in Sale on 7 December 2000 with the following witnesses:

Ms Thelma Kingwill, Secretary, Headway Gippsland

Mr Peter Craighead, Chair, Central Gippsland Regional Youth Committee

Mr N. Smith, Small Rural Health Group and Lakes Entrance Community Health Centre

Mr Ian Fraser, Chief Executive Officer, Central Gippsland Health Service

Mr John Lau, Director‐Corporate Services, Central Gippsland Health Service

Ms Leona Mann, Director‐Community Care Services, Central Gippsland Health Service

Mr Bruce Graham, Director‐Strategic Development, Wellington Shire Council

Ms Glenys Butler, Social Planner, Wellington Shire Council

Mr Laurie Harkin, Regional Director, DHS Gippsland Region Office

Ms Dorothy Wee, Partnerships and Service Planning Manager, DHS Gippsland Region

Office.

Public hearing held in Geelong on 8 December 2000 with the following witnesses:

Ms Moyneen Curtis, Chief Executive Officer, Bellarine Peninsula Community Health

Service

Ms Anne Condon, Regional Director, MacKillop Family Services (Barwon), Bethany

Family Support Inc.

Mr S. Murphy, Executive Officer, Barwon Association of Youth Support and

Accommodation

Ms Penny Cash and Ms Carol Adams, Zena Collective

Dr John Gallichio, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Barwon Health

Mr John Linke, Chief Financial Officer, Barwon Health

Mr David Dillon, Senior Financial Officer, Barwon Health

Ms Anna Fletcher, General Manager ‐ Community and Mental Health Services, Barwon

Health

Mr Neil Klemm, Community Services Manager, Golden Plains Shire

In March 2001, work commenced on preparing draft report.

Final hearing held on 6 March 2001 with Vice‐President and Chief Executive Officer of the

Victorian Council of Social Services.



42

Chapters 11, 12 and 13 of the draft report prepared.

On 30 August 2001, draft report forwarded to the Sub‐Committee Chairperson to review.

Executive Summary and Key Findings of draft report prepared and forwarded to Sub‐

Committee Chairperson to review.

On 18 October 2001, discussions held with Sub‐Committee Chairperson about the structure

of the draft report.

On 2 November 2001, additional material for Chapter 3 prepared and forwarded to Sub‐

Committee Chairperson to review.

On 2 November 2001, structure of draft report revised.

On 14 November 2001, draft report forwarded to Members of the Committee.

Draft report considered at Sub‐Committee meetings on 19 and 20 February 2002.

Draft report revised.


Revised draft report considered, amended and adopted by the Sub‐Committee at a

meeting on 4 April 2002.

Draft report considered and adopted by the full Committee at a meeting on 11 April 2002.

On 18 April 2002, Report No. 47 tabled in the Parliament.

Report distributed to all interested parties.

Future Activities

Government response due 18 October 2002.

On 21 October 2002, the Chairman to give a paper at the Queensland University of

Technology conference on Recent Developments in Government Community Sector

Relations.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE IN THE VICTORIAN PUBLIC SECTOR


Briefing paper considered by the Committee on 23 March 2000 and terms of reference for the

Inquiry adopted.

Draft issues paper further revised.

On 26 September 2001, the Executive Officer, on behalf of the Chairman, presented a paper

on “Assessing the implications that outsourcing and contracting has on corporate

governance within government departments” at a conference in Sydney.

Issues paper updated.

43

On 12 February 2002, draft issues paper forwarded to the Chairperson of the Sub‐


On 20 February 2002, comments received from Sub‐Committee Chairperson.

Issues paper revised.

Issues paper considered by the full Committee at a meeting on 14 March 2002, and adopted

with amendments. Terms of reference amended.

Sub‐Committee appointed.


Inquiry advertised on 6 April 2002.

Issues paper distributed to all government entities and other interested parties.

Future Activities

On 1 May 2002, public hearing to be held with representatives from the Municipal

Association of Victoria; the Auditor‐General’s Office; Victorian Council of Social

Service; Energy Action Group; and Professor Graeme Hodge.

Closing date for submissions is 30 May 2002.

VALUATION AND REPORTING OF HERITAGE AND INFRASTRUCTURE

ASSETS


Briefing paper considered by the Committee on 23 March 2000 and terms of reference for the

Inquiry adopted.

Inquiry advertised in major metropolitan newspapers on 1 April 2000.


Requests for submissions forwarded to the Treasurer, some government agencies, councils,

accounting organisations and interested individuals.

Thirty‐two submissions received.


On 12 October 2000 a public hearing was held with the following witnesses:

Mr Ian Langfield‐Smith, Specialist Adviser to the Inquiry

Mr Greg Pound, Assistant Auditor‐General, Accounting and Auditing Policy, Victorian

Auditor‐General’s Office

Mr Erik Hopp, Director, Accounting and Auditing Policy, Victorian Auditor‐General’s

Office

Mr Martin Hallett, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Museum Victoria

44

Mr Tim Stranks, Executive Projects Officer, Museum Victoria

Mr Doug Thompson, Director of Finance, VicRoads.


Mr G. Newcombe, General Manager, National Gallery of Victoria

Professor J. Ross, Chief Botanist of Victoria

Ms L. McAllister, Research Officer, Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne

Professor G. Carnegie, Head of School of Accounting and Finance, Deakin University

Mr K. Alfredson, Chairman, Australian Accounting Standards Board

Mr J. Paul, Senior Project Manager, Australian Accounting Standards Board

Mr F. Micallef, General Manager — Accounting, North Limited

Public hearing held in Canberra on 13 December 2000 with the following witnesses:

Professor Alan Barton, Department of Commerce, Faculty of Economics and Commerce,

Australian National University

Mr Brett Kaufmann, Head of the Commonwealth Accounting Centre of Excellence Team,

Commonwealth Department of Finance and Administration

Ms Margaret Baird, Head of Finance, National Gallery of Australia

Mr Mark Dawes, Head of Corporate Services, Australian War Memorial

Mr Mark Whitmore, Assistant Director ‐ National Collections, Australian War Memorial

Ms Leanne Patterson, Assistant Director – Finance, Australian War Memorial.

Public hearing held in Sydney on 14 December 2000 with the following witnesses:

Professor Peter Wolnizer, Dean, Faculty of Economics and Business, University of

Sydney

Professor Bob Walker, Professor of Accounting, School of Accounting, University of NSW

and Chairman of the Board, Superannuation Administration Corporation of NSW

Mr Martin Smith, Senior Policy Adviser, NSW Treasury

Mr Andrew Waddington, Finance Manager, Crown Transactions, NSW Treasury

Professor Des Griffin, Former Director, Australian Museum

Mr Richard Llewellyn, Manager, Collection Valuation Project for Australian Museum,

Powerhouse Museum, State Library, Royal Botanic Gardens and NSW Parliamentary

Library

Mr Bob Sendt, NSW Auditor‐General

Ms Maria Spriggins, Director of Audit; Audit Office of NSW

Mr Sam Kalagurgevic, Director of Audit, Audit Office of NSW.

Public hearing held on 7 March 2001 with the following witnesses:

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Mr Steve Gurr, Acting Director, Financial Policy and Compliance; Department of

Treasury and Finance;

Mr Warren McGregor, Stevenson McGregor (Consultants);

Mr Graeme Addicott, Regional Manager, Darwin Region, Australian Valuation Office;

Mr Allan Molland, School of Accounting and Law, RMIT University; and

Ms Carmel Capitanio, Lecturer, Department of Accounting and Management, School of

Business, LaTrobe University.

Further public hearing held on 10 April 2001 with the following witnesses:

Mr Robert Marsh, City of Melbourne;

Mr Bill Forrester and Mr Anthony Connelly, Melbourne Water Corporation;

Mr Andrew Bainbridge and Mr Keith Caldwell, Moorabool Shire Council;

Mr Jack Dunham, Valuer‐General of Victoria, and Mr Graeme Balfour, Office of the

Valuer‐General of Victoria; and

Mrs Ruth Picker, Partner and Business Unit Director, National Accounting and Auditing

Standards, Ernst & Young.

Options paper prepared.

Options paper reviewed.

Work continued on preparing draft report.

On 27 March 2002, chapters 1 to 6 of the draft report forwarded to the Chairman and Sub‐

Committee Chairman to review.


On 5 April 2002, chapter 7 forwarded to the Chairman and Sub‐Committee Chairman to

review.

Draft report considered by the Sub‐Committee on 11 April 2002 and amended.

Future Activities

Draft report to be revised and re‐considered by the Sub‐Committee in late May 2002.

Draft report to be considered by the full Committee in June 2002.

Adoption, tabling and distribution of report.

PRIVATE SECTOR INVESTMENT IN PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE


Briefing paper and draft terms of reference considered by the Committee on 27 April 2000.


46

Executive Officer of the Committee/Research Officer attended seminar on Public/Private

Partnerships.

Draft terms of reference and briefing paper revised.

Draft terms of reference and briefing paper re‐considered and adopted by the Committee on

6 February 2002.

On 27 February 2002, letter sent to the Treasurer requesting a submission to the Inquiry.

On 2 March 2002, Inquiry advertised in various metropolitan and national newspapers.

Requests for submissions sent to a number of organisations.

Submission prepared seeking approval for some Members of the Committee to undertake

an overseas study program to review developments with partnership arrangements.


On 30 April 2002, the Sub‐Committee was briefed by representatives from the Victorian

Auditor‐General’s Office, Department of Treasury and Finance; Tasman Economics;

Institution of Engineers; Transfield; PricewaterhouseCoopers; and Professor Graeme

Hodge and Dr Raphael Arndt.

22 submissions received to date.

Closing date for receipt of submissions was 30 April 2002.

Extensions of time given to various organisations for forwarding submissions.

Future Activities

On 14 November 2002, Chairman to give a paper at the national conference of the

Institute of Public Administration Australia in Adelaide.

Report to be prepared on the proposed overseas study program and tabled in Parliament.

STATUTORY INDEPENDENT OFFICERS OF PARLIAMENT LEGISLATION


Terms of reference adopted by the Committee on 12 April 2000.

Terms of reference advertised and submissions called for in metropolitan and national press

on 4 April 2000.


Requests for submissions sent to a number of statutory office‐holders on 18 April 2000.

Ten submissions received.


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On 3 and 4 August 2000, Sub‐Committee met with New Zealand statutory Officers of

Parliament, the Speaker of the New Zealand House of Representatives, the Officers of

Parliament Committee and officials from the New Zealand Treasury.

On 22 August 2000, the Sub‐Committee met with the Victorian Auditor‐General, Mr W.

Cameron, and the Assistant Auditor‐General, Mr J. Manders.

Further research undertaken.

On 9 October 2000, a public hearing was held in Melbourne with the following witnesses:

Mr Peter Salway, Commissioner for Public Employment

Dr Wayne Chamley, Management Group, The Purple Sage Project

Professor Colin Clark, Deputy Dean, Faculty of Business and Law and Head of the

Public Sector Research Unit, Victoria University of Technology

Mr Michael De Martinis, Lecturer, School of Accounting and Finance, Victoria University

of Technology

On 10 October 2000, a public hearing was held in Canberra with the following witnesses:

Mr Harry Evans, Clerk of the Senate

Mr John Parkinson, Convenor of the Australasian Council of Auditors‐General and

A.C.T. Auditor‐General

Mr Ron McLeod, Commonwealth Ombudsman

Mr Oliver Winder, Deputy Commonwealth Ombudsman

Mr Bob Charles, MP, Chairman of the Commonwealth Joint Committee of Public

Accounts and Audit

Dr Margot Kerley, Secretary to the Commonwealth Joint Committee of Public Accounts

and Audit

Dr John Uhr, Research School of Social Sciences, Australian National University

Professor Roger Wettenhall, Visiting Fellow, Research School of Public Sector

Management, University of Canberra.

On 29 March 2001 the following witnesses gave evidence:

Dr John Tamblyn, Victorian Regulator‐General; and

Dr Barry Perry, The Ombudsman Victoria.

Work commenced on preparing draft report.

Further research undertaken on developments overseas.

Future Activities

Draft report to be considered by the Committee at a meeting in June 2002.

Adoption, tabling and distribution of report.

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AUDITOR‐GENERAL’S OFFICE

Source of reference: Audit Act 1994, sections 7A(2) and 7D(2).

On 8 March 2001, the Committee discussed the draft specifications for the independent

financial and performance audits of the Victorian Auditor‐Generalʹs Office.

Draft specifications forwarded to the Auditor‐General for comment.

Auditor‐Generalʹs comments on the draft specifications considered by the Committee on

15 March 2001.

Specifications for the performance and financial audits adopted by the Committee on 15

March 2001.

Tenders called for on 17 March 2001. Closing date for receipt of submissions was 6

April 2001.

Specifications forwarded to a number of consulting and auditing organisations.

Sub‐Committee appointed to review all tender proposals.

Chairman discussed the Victorian Auditor‐General’s Officeʹs budget with officials from

Department of Treasury and Finance.

Committeeʹs response to the Victorian Auditor‐General’s Officeʹs Draft Annual Plan

prepared and forwarded to the Auditor‐General.

On 23 April 2001, Sub‐Committee met with short‐listed tenderers for the performance and

financial audits of the Victorian Auditor‐General’s Office.

Draft report prepared recommending the appointment of the financial and performance

auditors.

Draft report considered, amended and adopted at Committee meeting on 26 April 2001.

Report tabled on 2 May 2001.

Contracts for the appointment of the auditors prepared and finalised.

On 16 May 2001, preliminary meeting held with independent performance auditor.

On 25 May 2001, Chairman met with Auditor‐General and Assistant Auditor‐General.

On 5 June 2001, Chairman and Deputy Chairman met with independent performance

auditor.

Proposed audit plan for the performance audit received and reviewed by the Members of

the Sub‐Committee.

On 27 June 2001, the Sub‐Committee endorsed the audit plan.

Advice received that the independent financial auditor, Mr Christopher Lewis, had

resigned; Sub‐Committee sought probity advice on arrangements for appointing a

replacement.

Probity advice received.

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On 2 August 2001, Committee met with Mr Stuart Alford, independent performance

auditor.

On 7 August 2001, Sub‐Committee interviewed a tenderer for the financial audit of the

Victorian Auditor‐General’s Office.

On 14 August 2001, the Chairman and Deputy Chairman interviewed another tenderer for

the financial audit.

On 22 August 2001, the Committee adopted a report recommending the appointment of a

replacement auditor to undertake the financial audit of the Victorian Auditor‐General’s

Office.

On 23 August 2001, Report No. 42 tabled in the Legislative Assembly.

On 24 August 2001, the Committee with Mr Stuart Alford, the independent performance

audit, for a briefing on his preliminary findings.

On 6 September 2001, the Committee continued discussions with Mr Stuart Alford on the

preliminary findings of the performance audit.

On 18 September 2001, the Committee’s report no. 42 tabled in the Legislative Council

recommending Mr Graeme Ross be appointed as the financial auditor of the Victorian

Auditor‐General’s Office.

On 26 September 2001, the appointment of the auditor was endorsed by both Houses of

Parliament.

Contract for replacement financial auditor prepared and forwarded to Mr Ross.

On 3 October 2001, the Auditor‐General briefed the Committee on proposed changes to the

Audit Act.

On 4 October 2001, officers from the Department of Treasury and Finance briefed the

Committee on proposed changes to the Audit Act.

On 30 October 2001, the report on the Performance Audit of the Victorian Auditor‐General’s

Office was tabled in the Parliament.

On 11 December 2001, the Committee resolved to undertake a review of the Report on the

2001 Performance Audit of the Victorian Auditor‐General’s Office (Alford Report).

Sub‐Committee appointed to undertake the review.

On 11 December 2001, letters sent to the Auditor‐General and the Secretary of the

Department of Treasury and Finance seeking their views on the

recommendations/suggestions contained in the Alford Report.

Briefing paper prepared on the Alford Report.

On 6 February 2002, the Auditor‐General briefed the Committee on the Victorian Auditor‐

General’s Office proposed budget and annual plan for 2002‐2003.

The Committee sought advice from the Department of Treasury and Finance on the

proposed 2002‐2003 budget of the Victorian Auditor‐General’s Office.

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Responses received from the Victorian Auditor‐General’s Office and the Secretary of the

Department of Treasury and Finance concerning the Alford Report.

On 7 March 2002, briefing paper and responses received from the Auditor‐General and the

Secretary, Department of Treasury and Finance on the Alford Report reviewed by the

Sub‐Committee.

On 14 March 2002, the Committee forwarded a response concerning the Auditor‐General’s

budget estimates for 2002‐2003 to the Treasurer and the Presiding Officers.

On 14 March 2002, draft response to the Auditor‐General’s draft annual plan for 2002‐2003

discussed at a meeting of the full Committee.

Draft report prepared on the Alford Report.


Draft report on the Alford Report forwarded to the Chairman to review.

Response to the Auditor‐General’s draft annual plan finalised.

Future Activities

Draft report on the Alford Report and the response to the Auditor‐General’s draft annual

plan to be considered by the full Committee on 2 May 2002.

Adoption, tabling and distribution of report in May 2002.

Response to be forwarded to the Auditor‐General.

CHANGES TO THE VICTORIAN PUBLIC SERVICE

Source of reference: Referred by the Legislative Council on 21 November 2001.

Briefing paper prepared on the proposed terms of reference and strategy for undertaking

the Inquiry.

Briefing paper considered at Committee meeting on 6 February 2002, and Sub‐Committee

appointed to undertake the Inquiry.

On 7 March 2002, Sub‐Committee considered a briefing paper outlining the proposed

strategy for undertaking the Inquiry. Strategy adopted by the Sub‐Committee.

Inquiry advertised on 16 March 2002.


On 4 April 2002, Sub‐Committee reviewed and amended the draft questionnaire on

workforce planning.

On 12 April 2002, questionnaire distributed to all Government Departments.

Future Activity

Closing date for receipt of submissions is 30 June 2002.

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ROAD SAFETY COMMITTEE




Website: http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/parlrsc

Members:

(Council) The Hons Andrew Brideson and Elaine Carbines MLC.

(Assembly) Mr Don Kilgour, Mr C A C Langdon, Mr Tony Plowman, Mr Garry Spry

and Mr Ian Trezise, MP.

Chairman: The Hon Andrew Brideson, MLC

Executive Officer: Ms A Douglas

IMPROVING SAFETY FOR OLDER ROAD USERS

Terms of Reference issued by Governor in Council on 22 May 2001.


Receipt of Submissions continues. Number of key government departments and

agencies yet to lodge submissions.

Work has commenced on summarising 136 submissions received to date.

Planning for the conference on the Safety of Older Road Users continues. The date has

been set for 26‐27 August 2002 at the Sheraton Towers, Southbank. The Hon P

Batchelor MP, Minister for Transport, has been invited to open the conference and a

number of overseas experts have been approached to participate as keynote speakers.

Future Activity

First public hearing will be held on Monday 20 May 2002. VicRoads, the Transport

Accident Commission, the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria and the State Coroner

will appear before the Committee.

THE ESCALATION IN VICTORIA’S ROAD TOLL DURING 2000 – 2001

Referred by the Legislative Council on 21 November 2001.


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mailto:[email protected]

ROAD CRASHES INVOLVING VEHICLES LEAVING THE ROAD AND

COLLIDING WITH ROADSIDE OBJECTS



FLUCTUATIONS IN THE NUMBER AND SEVERITY OF CRASHES ON

VICTORIAN ROADS FROM 1988 UNTIL THE PRESENT



OTHER ACTIVITIES

The new Research Officer, Mr Sean Coley has commenced his secondment. He is

currently assisting with the inquiry into improving safety for older road users and will

soon commence work on the two inquiries relating to road crashes and the road toll.

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SCRUTINY OF ACTS AND REGULATIONS

COMMITTEE



Website: www.parliament.vic.gov.au/sarc

Email: [email protected](Scrutiny of Bills)

[email protected](Scrutiny of Regulations)

[email protected] (Electronic Democracy inquiry)

Members:

(Council) The Hons. M A Birrell, (Deputy Chair), J Mikakos,

A P Olexander (Deputy Chair) and C A Strong.

(Assembly) Mrs E Beattie, Mr C Carli, Ms M J Gillett (Chair),

Hon R R C Maclellan and Mr T Robinson.

Chair: Ms M Gillett MP

Executive Officer: Mr A J Homer

SUBCOMMITTEES

Regulation Review Subcommittee

Hon. Jenny Mikakos MLC (Chair)

Ms Mary Gillett MP

Hon. R R C Maclellan MP

Hon. A P Olexander MLC

Mr Tony Robinson MP.

Redundant Legislation Subcommittee

Hon. Chris Strong MLC (Chair)

Ms Liz Beattie MP

Mr Carlo Carli MP


Hon. A P Olexander MLC

Parliamentary Committees Act Subcommittee

Ms Mary Gillett MP (Chair),

Hon. Mark Birrell MLC,

Mr Tony Robinson MP

Hon. Chris Strong MLC

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Information Privacy Subcommittee

Mr Carlo Carli MP (Chair)

Ms Liz Beattie MP


Hon. Chris Strong MLC

Anzac Day Subcommittee

Ms Mary Gillett MP (Chair),

Ms E. Beattie MP

The Hon. Mark Birrell MLC,

The Hon. Andrew Olexander MLC, and

Mr Tony Robinson MP.

CURRENT COMMITTEE REFERENCES

Anzac Day Laws Inquiry [Anzac Day Subcommittee].

Electronic (E) – Democracy – [Full Committee];

Parliamentary Committees Act 1968 – [Parliamentary Committees Act Subcommittee];

Subordinate Legislation Act 1994 – [Regulation Review Subcommittee]; and

Vagrancy Act 1966 – [Redundant Legislation Subcommittee];


FULL COMMITTEE

The Full Committee met on 15 April 2002 to consider –

Alert Digest No. 3 of 2002

Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Bill

Electoral Bill

Health Practitioner Acts (Further Amendments) Bill

Jewish Care (Victoria) Bill

Melbourne City Link (Further Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill

Water (Irrigation Farm Dams) (Amendment) Bill

ANZAC DAY SUBCOMMITTEE

The Committee met on 29 April 2002 to take evidence from key stakeholders and contacts

in respect to the inquiry.

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E‐DEMOCRACY SUBCOMMITTEE

The Subcommittee agreed to a timetable for the Inquiry and work continued on

finalising the draft Discussion Paper for release in May 2002. The Subcommittee is

considering producing a series of Information Brochures to accompany the Discussion

Paper.

PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEES ACT SUBCOMMITTEE

The Subcommittee did not meet in April. The Final Report is in the last stages of editing

and formatting. The Committee will consider the report during May and table the

report before the conclusion of the autumn sitting.

REDUNDANT LEGISLATION SUBCOMMITTEE

The Subcommittee did not meet in April but released its discussion paper on the inquiry

into the Vagrancy Act 1966. The Subcommittee intends holding public hearings on

31 May 2002 and, if required, on 3 June 2002.

REGULATION REVIEW SUBCOMMITTEE

The Subcommittee did not meet during April. The Report on the Inquiry into the

Subordinate Legislation Act 1994 is in the last stages of editing and formatting. The

Committee will table the report before the conclusion of the autumn sitting.

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URBAN AND REGIONAL LAND CORPORATION

MANAGING DIRECTOR SELECT COMMITTEE

Parliament House, Spring Street, Melbourne 3002


Website: http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/committees

Members:

(Council) The Hons R M Hallam, G W Jennings, N B Lucas, G K Rich‐Phillips and T C

Theophanous

Chairman: The Hon N B Lucas, MLC

Secretary: Dr R Wright

SELECT COMMITTEE ON THE URBAN AND REGIONAL LAND CORPORATION

MANAGING DIRECTOR

Terms of Reference agreed to by the Legislative Council on 5 December 2001 as follows:

(a) That a Select Committee of five members be appointed to enquire into and report

upon any matters relating to the selection, appointment and resignation of Mr. Jim

Reeves as Managing Director of the Urban and Regional Land Corporation, together

with any involvement of external agencies and consultants.

(b) That the Committee shall consist of two members nominated by the Leader of the

Government, two members nominated by the Leader of the Opposition and one

member nominated by the Leader of the National Party.

(c) That the members shall be appointed by lodgement of the names with the President

by the Leaders no later than 4.00 p.m. on Thursday, 6 December 2001.

(d) That the first meeting of the Committee shall be held at 10.30 a.m. on Friday, 7

December 2001.

(e) That the Committee may proceed to the despatch of business notwithstanding that all

members have not been appointed and notwithstanding any vacancy.

(f) That the Committee shall elect a Deputy Chairman to act as Chairman at any time

when the Chairman is not present at a meeting of the Committee.

(g) That three members of the Committee shall constitute a quorum.

(h) That the Committee may send for persons, papers and records.

(i) That the Committee may authorise the publication of any evidence taken by it in

public and any documents presented to it.

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(j) That reports of the Committee may be presented to the Council from time to time and

that the Committee present its final report to the Council on or before 31 May 2002.

(k) That the presentation of a report or an interim report of the Committee shall not be

deemed to terminate the Committee’s appointment, powers or functions.

(l) That the Committee shall, unless it otherwise resolves, take all evidence in public and

may otherwise sit in public at anytime if it so decides.

(m) That the foregoing provisions of this resolution, so far as they are inconsistent with

the Standing Orders and practice of the Council, shall have effect notwithstanding

anything contained in the Standing Orders.

First Committee meeting held on 7 December 2001.

Requests for information sent to private and public sector organisations, and private

individuals, with a final submission date of 18 January 2002.

On 11 February 2002, the Committee considered the submissions received and resolved to

obtain additional information from public sector organisations.

On 20 February 2002, a public hearing was held with the following witnesses:

Mr Geoff Tabe, Manager, Governance, Department of Treasury and Finance

Mr Alan Hawkes, Director, Commercial Management, Department of Treasury and

Finance

Mr Desmond Glynn, former Chief Executive Officer, Urban and Regional Land

Corporation

Mr Rohan Carr, Heidrick and Struggles

Ms Karen Spinley, Heidrick and Struggles


Mr Frank Davis, Board Member, Urban and Regional Land Corporation

Ms Angie Dickschen, Partner, Freehills

Mr Marek Petrovs, Chairman, Urban and Regional Land Corporation


Mr Paul Jerome, Executive Director, Planning, Heritage and Building Division,

Department of Infrastructure

Mr Bryce Moore, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Urban and Regional Land Corporation

Mr Terry Moran, Secretary, Department of Premier and Cabinet

On 6 March 2002, a public hearing was held with the following witnesses:

Mr Owen Lennie, Board Member, Urban and Regional Land Corporation

Mr Ray OʹHalloran, Cabinet Liaison Officer, Department of Infrastructure

Mr Gary Hesketh, Financial Analyst — Governance, Department of Treasury and

Finance

Mr Bill Heywood, Secretary, Government Sector Executive Remuneration Board,

Department of Premier and Cabinet

On 15 March 2002, a public hearing was held with the following witnesses:

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Mr Grant Hehir, Deputy Secretary, Department of Treasury and Finance

Professor Lyndsay Neilson, Secretary, Department of Infrastructure

On 19 March 2002, the Committee met and adopted the First Interim Report.

On 19 March 2002, the Committeeʹs Terms of Reference were amended by the insertion of a

new paragraph to follow paragraph (m), namely —

(n) The Committee shall include with any of its reports to the Council, minority

reports submitted to it by a member or members of the Committee.

On 20 March 2002, the Chairman tabled the First Interim Report in the Legislative Council.

On 20 March 2002, the Legislative Council debated the following motion —

That this House requests the Legislative Assembly to grant leave to the Honourable S P

Bracks MP, Premier of Victoria, the Honourable J W Thwaites MP, Deputy Premier of

Victoria and Minister for Health, and the Honourable J M Brumby MP, Treasurer, to

appear before the Select Committee of the Legislative Council on the Urban and

Regional Land Corporation Managing Director to give evidence and answer questions

in relation to the Committeeʹs terms of reference.

After a division, the motion was agreed to. The message was subsequently debated in the

Assembly, which in turn sent a message to the Council declining the request.

On 22 March 2002, a public hearing was held with the following witness:

Professor Lyndsay Neilson, Secretary, Department of Infrastructure


On 19 April 2002, a public hearing was held with the following witness:

Mr Jack Reilly, Board Member, Urban and Regional Land Corporation.

Information continued to be acquired by the Committee.

Preliminary work commenced on preparing the Draft Report.

Future Activities

A public hearing will be held on 1 May 2002.

Work will continue on the preparation of the Draft Report.

PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEES - Parliament of Victoria

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