QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS - Parliament of NSW · 20-10-2009 · The Questions and Answers Paper is...

PARLIAMENT OF NEW SOUTH WALESLEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

2007-08-09

FIRST SESSION OF THE FIFTY-FOURTH PARLIAMENT

QUESTIONS AND

ANSWERS

No. 159

TUESDAY 20 OCTOBER 2009

The Questions and Answers Paper is published at the end of each sitting day and will contain, by number and title, all unanswered questions, together with questions to which answers have been received on that sitting day and any new questions. Consequently the full text of any question will be printed only twice: when notice is given; and, when answered. During any adjournment of two weeks or more a Questions and Answers Paper will be published from time to time containing answers received.

7139

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Publication of Questions Answer to be lodged by

Q & A No. 150 (Including Question Nos 7498 to 7561) 13 October 2009








Q & A No. 158 (Questions—Nil) -

Q & A No. 159 (Including Question Nos 8038 to 8075) 24 November 2009

7140LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS





8 SEPTEMBER 2009(Paper No. 150)

*7498 FERAL ANIMALS IN NATIONAL PARKS—Mr Richard Amery asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) Do officers of the National Parks and Wildlife Service take action to reduce the number of feral animals in the State's national parks?

(2) (a) Is the use of poison one of the methods used to destroy those feral animals?(b) If so, what methods are used to ensure that native animals are not destroyed by these poisons?

(3) (a) Are firearms used to destroy feral animals in these parks?(b) If so, what action is taken to ensure that there are no risks to members of the public during the culling of feral animals?

(4) (a) Are all the persons using firearms to cull feral animals in national parks full or part-time employees of the National Parks and Wildlife Service?(b) If not, who are the persons employed to do this activity?

Answer—I am advised:(1) Yes. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) has responsibilities to protect natural and

cultural heritage and implements an integrated approach to feral animal control that involves baiting, mustering, trapping and shooting as appropriate. Where possible the NPWS takes a cross tenure approach to pest management and works with Livestock Health and Pest Authorities and neighbouring land owners. Each NPWS region has a Pest Management Strategy that identifies priority species and places for protection and strategies and actions to reduce the impacts of introduced species.

(2) (a) Yes.(b) The naturally occurring toxin, 1080, is used to control foxes, wild dogs, rabbits and feral pigs in national parks. Its use is governed by a Pesticide Control Order, Codes of Practice and Standard Operating Procedures. One of the objectives of these documents is to minimise risks to native animals.

(3) (a) Yes.(b) Culling of feral animals in national parks using firearms is undertaken by marksmen in accordance with an approved shooting operations plan. A Job Safety Analysis (JSA) and a Job Safety Brief are undertaken for all shooting operations in national parks. Public safety is a major consideration in both the shooting operations plan and the JSA. Extensive procedures are in place to ensure no-one is present in the target area at the time of the operation.

(4) (a) No. (b) As well as using trained NPWS staff, employees of Livestock Health and Pest Authorities and other contractors who have completed the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water's Level 2 advanced firearms safety and humane destruction training course are used for this work.

*7499 INFORMATION FOR SMALL BUSINESS OPERATORS—Mr Richard Amery asked the Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister for Small Business—

(1) Is the Government planning to improve the availability of information through avenues such as the internet?

(2) How will this information be transmitted to small business operators around the State?(3) (a) Will information provided by the Government to small business be consistent with information

provided to students undertaking business courses in universities?(b) If so, what collaboration exists between the department and universities?

Answer—(1) A new era of providing information to the small businesses of NSW began on Tuesday September 1 when I formally launched the revamped smallbiz website at the start of Small Business September.This service sets the benchmark in delivering up-to-date online information to small businesses.The website underscores the NSW Government's commitment to ensure all small businesses get access to top quality information, training and support.






This easy-to-navigate site has been designed specifically for time poor, information hungry small business owners and operators.Its start, run and grow structure means targeted help is available to people who are starting up, refining their business operations or expanding into new markets. Its interactive resources include the Small Business Tool Kit with audio and video presentations, checklists, calculators, and quizzes.Real life case studies provide tips and solutions for managing everyday issues such as cash flow and marketing.Checklists assess readiness for business without overlooking important details.The Tool Kit can also interactively help small business owners and operators prepare their business plans so they can hit the ground running.The Small Business Tool Kit is the result of a close working relationship between the NSW Government and the University of Western Sydney.It is the outcome of intensive research and the hard work of professional staff, and over 20 undergraduate Information Technology, business and accounting students.The SmallBiz site contains specific information on initiatives for:

• Women in Business• Home-based businesses• Young entrepreneurs• Indigenous businesses and• Industry groups.

There is up-to-date news along with information about upcoming business seminars, workshops and other events, as well as links to useful business sites.Small business is the engine room of the New South Wales economy, with more than 650,000 businesses employing over one million people.For this reason it is important for industry, government and educators to deliver online services that meet the immediate needs of owner-managers of small businesses.(2) Small Business September was used as the launching pad of the NSW Government's Small Business Toolkit and www.smallbiz.nsw.gov.auAs well as at the launch of the website and Small Business September, a promotional audio-video presentation was played before many Industry & Investment NSW events, and promotional flyers were distributed at events and included in event showbags.An advertisement for the website was in the Small Business September journal and the Small Business September lift-out in the Sydney Morning Herald.10,000 flyers were distributed State-wide including to metropolitan and regional Industry & Investment NSW offices, Business Advisory Services and to the 150 plus partner organisations of Small Business September.DVD copies of the audio-video presentation were distributed to Industry & Investment NSW offices, Business Advisory Services and selected media representatives. I also hosted special previews of the website to the CEOs of key industry associations in an effort to encourage them to make their members aware of the website.Our media strategy has proved highly successful and has resulted in mentions of the new website in the Australian Financial Review, the Daily Telegraph, and a number of regional newspapers.I have actively promoted the website during radio interviews broadcast on regional radio stations in Broken Hill, Tamworth, Bega and Coffs Harbour amongst others and on 2GB in Sydney.We also doing some highly targeted online banner and search advertising including the Sydney Morning Herald online and a prominent online business directory. Industry & Investment NSW Business Development Managers and other client staff across the State are actively promoting the website and the Tool Kit to their clients and at expos and training workshops and seminars. The Department is also developing banners to be used on an ongoing basis at events and expos.






(3) (a) The Smallbiz website and Small Business Tool Kit content aligns to and is consistent with information taught in business schools in the tertiary sector, specifically vocational education and training and universities.Content is underpinned by established business concepts taught by business schools to include constructs such as finance, marketing and human resource management. The Tool Kit in particular is a user-friendly platform where content is written in plain English. It focuses on the application of concepts to solve small business problems through case studies and interviews with industry experts and small business owner-managers.It also addresses specific needs of small business owners and operators using text, audio, images, video and interactive planning tools.The Tool Kit provides the opportunity for learners to improve their business management skills, improve business performance and will allow opportunities for progression to tertiary studies.(b) The Small Business Tool Kit brought together the NSW Government with the University of Western Sydney to build an innovative and leading-edge platform for business education, skills development and greater economic sustainability in the small to medium sized enterprises (SME) sector.

*7500 GAMING MACHINE TAX REVENUE—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

What was the tax revenue collected from gaming machines located in the Albury electorate for the financial years ending:

(a) 30 June 2006;(b) 30 June 2007;(c) 30 June 2008;(d) 30 June 2009?

Answer—I'm advised:The total tax revenue collected from poker machines located in the Albury electorate for the financial years ending:

(a) 30 June 2006 was $9,870,697; (b) 30 June 2007 was $11,710,329; (c) 30 June 2008 was $10,781,734; (d) 30 June 2009 was $11,606,775.

*7501 BEST PRACTICE PRICING—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Minister for Water, and Minister for Regional Development—

Given that the Department of Water encourages local councils to implement "Best Practice Pricing" when developing rating fees for access to water and sewerage services:(1) Is there any provision in "Best Practice Pricing" to provide concessions for facilities catering for

pensioners, people with disabilities or war veterans?(2) Are you aware that the Mulwala Elderly Citizens RSL Village water and sewerage charges have

increased from $3,634.44 in August 2008 to $9,171.64 in 2009 under "Best Practice Pricing", thereby causing financial hardship for the residents?

(3) Are there any reviews planned in relation to the department's "Best Pricing Practice" to ensure important facilities catering for low income residents, pensioners, people with disabilities and war veterans are provided financial relief in facilities like the Mulwala Elderly Citizens RSL Village?

Answer—(1) Water supply and sewerage services concessions are available for all owner-occupier pensioners in

non-metropolitan NSW. The pensioner rebates are available under section 575 of the Local Government Act 1993.Additionally, the Best Practice Management of Water Supply and Sewerage Guidelines require local water utilities to develop appropriate measures to minimise the impact of best practice pricing on vulnerable customers who have a high level of non-discretionary water use, such as large families on low incomes and home dialysis patients.






(2) Mulwala Elderly Citizens RSL Village has 10 individual units. In the 2008-09 financial year the Village received water supply and sewerage access charges calculated as a single dwelling, which did not reflect the Village's impact on the Corowa water supply and sewerage systems.In the 2009-10 financial year Corowa Council has adopted best practice pricing which requires Council to treat each unit as a single dwelling, resulting in ten water supply and sewerage access accounts for the Village.The 2009-10 charge of $9,171.64 for the Village includes water and sewerage and domestic waste charges, and general rates. The water and sewerage component is $7,700, equating to $770 per dwelling.

(3) The NSW Office of Water is undertaking a review of pensioner concessions. The review is specifically looking at the circumstances where pensioners are not owner-occupiers.

*7503 CHILDHOOD NURSING STAFF—Mr Steve Cansdell asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Does the NSW north coast region have the highest birth rate in the State?(2) If so, why are childhood nursing staff levels at an all time low?Answer—I am advised:(1) and (2) Based on the latest available data (2006), North Coast Area Health Service has one of the

lowest birth rates in the State, with a crude birth rate of 11 per 1000 population and an estimated 6% of all births.

*7504 FEES OFFICER POSITION—Mr Steve Cansdell asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Is the full-time position of Fees Officer at Grafton Base Hospital to be removed?(2) Will an administrative position be created or merged to fill this role in Grafton?(3) Is this position (fees officer) being relocated to Lismore?Answer—I am advised:(1) to (3) Following a review by PricewaterhouseCoopers, the North Coast Area Health Service's Patient

Fees billing services are being centralised into the Area Office at Lismore. Functions, such as identifying and registering private patients will continue to be performed by Grafton Base Hospital's Patient Liaison Officer. All other functions relating to patient fees will transition to the Area Office in Lismore. The affected staff member (Fees Officer) at Grafton Base Hospital will be re-deployed to undertake other administrative roles at that Hospital.

*7505 CLEAN-UP OF ASBESTOS—WALLAGA LAKE—Mr Andrew Constance asked the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

(1) What undertakings have been made by the NSW Government to clean up asbestos at Wallaga Lake?(2) Why hasn't the clean up taken place and the lung bus screened members of the community?(3) Will the Minister ensure the community well-being is improved through the clean up of asbestos and

also the placement of additional street lighting?Answer—(1) to (3) Further detail regarding this matter should be referred to the Hon. John Robertson, Minister for

Minister for Climate Change and the Environment.However I am advised that a draft site management plan has been endorsed by the Merriman's LALC Board, a tender for the clean up has been issued and that those works will commence shortly. I am advised that the works will provide employment for three local community members who have recently completed an asbestos removal course.






I am advised that $30,000 from the Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC) and $50,000 from the Environmental Trust's Aboriginal Lands Clean-Up program has been provided to assist in the clean up process.The matter of the Lung Bus should be referred to the Minister for Health, the Hon. Carmel Tebbutt MP.Matters relating to street lighting should be referred to the local shire council for its consideration.

*7506 TOMAGO RIVER EROSION—Mr Andrew Constance asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) Is the Minister aware of concerns about erosion on the Tomaga River along the bank and near the beach?

(2) What investigations and subsequent actions will be taken by the department to protect the beach and river?

Answer—(1) Yes.

I am advised that erosion of the river and along the beach spit was identified as a major issue of community concern in the Tomaga Estuary Management Plan prepared by Eurobodalla Shire Council in 2005. Under the NSW Government's Estuary Management Program, $30,000 was provided to assist Council develop the plan.

(2) I am advised that the Tomaga Estuary Management Plan recommended a number of actions to manage the erosion at the beach spit and along the river banks. Since 2004, a further $90,000 has been provided to Council under the Estuary Management Program, for erosion control works such as revegetation and stabilisation.The Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water will continue to work with Council in implementing the actions of the Tomaga Estuary Management Plan.

*7507 PET SCANNER—Mr Andrew Constance asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

Why has the NSW Government not provided a PET scanner at Randwick Children's hospital to assist children suffering from cancer?Answer—I am advised:The South Eastern Sydney Illawarra Area Health Service has confirmed the provision of a PET scanner at the Randwick Hospital campus as a priority and is considering options with the NSW Department of Health for funding, in the context of a range of priorities for both State and Commonwealth Governments.

*7508 GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE NUMBERS—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

In relation to Government employee numbers:(1) Does Treasury have any data on the breakdown of employee numbers into frontline staff and non-

frontline staff?(2) If so, will the Treasurer release such data as at 30 June 2007 and 30 June 2008 and 30 June 2009,

including details by department?Answer—I'm advised: The break down of frontline and non-frontline staff was examined in the 2006 Audit of Expenditure and Assets Report which found that "eighty per cent of full-time equivalent staff from June 2004 to March 2005 were classified as front-line staff".The NSW Treasury does not have any whole of government data regarding the number of frontline versus non-frontline employees in the NSW Public Sector for the years ending 30 June 2007, 30 June 2008 and 30 June 2009.






*7509 HIGH RISE DEVELOPMENT—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

In relation to high rise development:Has the Minister or any ministerial or Department of Planning staff met with any lobbyist or other person⁄s representing the interests of the Ashington Group, in relation to their high rise development proposal at 33 Cross Street, Double Bay and if so who attended the meetings, where were they held and when did they take place?Answer—I met with both the proponent (Ashington Group) and Woollahra Council regarding this matter accompanied by officers from the Department of Planning. I also met with two former Mayors of Woollahra, Kerri Huxley and Geoff Rundle.Departmental staff have met with representatives from Ashington and Architectus (Ashington's Architects⁄Planners) during the consideration of the Major Project for the Double Bay proposal from early 2008 to August 2009.Meetings were held in my offices in Governor Macquarie Tower and Parliament, in the Department's Bridge Street Office and on-site at the former Stamford Plaza Hotel, Double Bay.The Department also met with community representatives regarding this matter on 29 September 2009.

*7510 NETWORK INSPECTIONS—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Minister for Roads—

Given your advice the RTA conducts routine network inspections in the New South Head Road area and also receives traffic flow data from traffic signal detectors (Question 6934):(1) Where are the traffic signal detectors located?(2) What data has been received since January 2007?(3) What does a routine network inspection involve?(4) When were inspections of New South Head Road undertaken in the last three years and what were

the results?Answer—I am advised:(1) Traffic signal detectors are usually installed in each traffic lane just before the stop line at a

signalised intersection.(2) Traffic volume data is recorded 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, provided that there are no power

failures.(3) Routine network inspections include, but are not limited to:

• Driving around the network to check for congestion points in peak periods.• Observing traffic patterns at different times of the day.• Checking coordination of traffic lights and adjusting timings if necessary.• Checking that traffic lights are operating efficiently.

(4) Network inspections are ongoing and are conducted when the RTA's Road Network Officer for this area is travelling along New South Head Road. This usually occurs once a week. Any required adjustments are then forwarded to the relevant RTA unit for action.

*7511 PAYROLL TAX—Mr Victor Dominello asked the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

In relation to payroll tax in the Ryde electorate:(1) What was the total amount collected from businesses located within postcode 2112 during:

(a) FY 2006-07;(b) FY 2007-08;(c) FY 2008-09 to date?

(2) What was the total amount collected from businesses located within postcode 2113 during: (a) FY 2006-07;(b) FY 2007-08;(c) FY 2008-09 to date?

(3) What was the total amount collected from businesses located within postcode 2114 during: (a) FY 2006-07;(b) FY 2007-08;






(c) FY 2008-09 to date?(4) What was the total amount collected from businesses located within postcode 2122 during:

(a) FY 2006-07;(b) FY 2007-08;(c) FY 2008-09 to date?

Answer—The amount of payroll tax collected is based on the registered address of the business. As some businesses have their head office in another location, it is not possible for the Office of State Revenue to accurately report on the amount of tax collected by postcode.

*7513 FERRY SERVICES—Mr Victor Dominello asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) Which Sydney Ferry terminals currently have commuter car parking facilities along Sydney Harbour⁄Parramatta River?

(2) Are there any plans to provide additional car parking facilities at Sydney Ferry terminals along Sydney Harbour⁄Parramatta River?

(3) How many Rivercat services have been cancelled in 2009 to date as a result of low tide at Parramatta?

(4) What alternatives are provided to Rivercat patrons who are unable to alight at Parramatta as a result of low tide?

Answer—The NSW Government recognises the important role that interchange facilities and commuter car parking facilities play in providing a fast, efficient and reliable integrated public transport network.We are continuing to assess demand for additional interchange projects and commuter car parking across the metropolitan transport network, as funding permits and on a priority basis.I am advised that 124 Rivercat services have not operated as a result of low tide at Parramatta.Sydney Ferries has assurred me that it advises customers in advance of upcoming tidal restrictions via daily radio broadcasts and on the 131500 Transport InfoLine and advises customers to plan ahead and seek alternative transport. I am advised that Sydney Ferries publishes in advance a list of services affected by tides on its website at http:⁄⁄www.sydneyferries.info, together with alternative travel suggestions and directions, and that it also highlights the possibility of service suspensions due to tidal restrictions on its published and printed timetables.

*7515 GRANDPARENTS AS CARERS—Ms Pru Goward asked the Minister for Community Services—

(1) How many grandparents are officially caring for their grandchildren in New South Wales?(2) What percentage of these grandparents receive financial assistance?(3) How does the number of grandparents as carers compare with the years:

(a) 2005;(b) 2006;(c) 2007;(d) 2008?

(4) How many of these grandparents are kinship carers authorised by the Children's Court as part of Out of Home Care orders?

(5) What percentage of Out of Home Care placements are kinship carers and what percentage are foster carers?

Answer—(1) As at 30 June 2008 there were over 3,200 children and young people identified in the Community

Services client information system, Key Information Directory System (KiDS), as being placed with their grandparents, great grandparents or step grandparents.

(2) All carers of children and young people in out-of-home care are eligible for financial assistance. (3) As at 30 June 2007 there were over 2,500 children and young people identified in KiDS as being

placed with their grandparents, great grandparents or step grandparents. Information prior to 2007 is not available in a reportable form.

(4) Of the 3,200 children, 2,040 were identified in KiDS as being placed with grandparents, great grandparents or step grandparents with a legal order.






(5) As at 30 June 2008, 51.1% of all children in out-of-home care were placed with relatives or kin. As at 30 June 2008, 37.0% of children in out-of-home care were placed with non-related or kin foster carers.The remaining children in out-of-home care are in a variety of placements such as residential care, supported accommodation, independent living and the like.

*7516 POKER MACHINE TAX REVENUE—Ms Pru Goward asked the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

What was the tax revenue collected from poker machines located within the Goulburn electorate for the financial years ended:

(a) 30 June 2007;(b) 30 June 2008;(c) 30 June 2009?

Answer—I'm advised:The total tax revenue collected from poker machines located in the Goulburn electorate for the financial years ending:

(a) 30 June 2007 was $2,934,390; (b) 30 June 2008 was $2,662,970; (c) 30 June 2009 was $2,865,262.

*7517 TRAINS TO FESTIVAL—Mr Chris Hartcher asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

In relation to the Crave Festival:(1) What extra trains will be running from the Central Coast to and from Sydney to assist Central Coast

residents attend the festival?(2) What are the times and how many carriages will there be for each service?Answer—CityRail is operating to a regular timetable during Crave Festival which runs for the month of October. Up to 14 services operate in the weekday am and pm peak times; two services an hour operate during the weekday off peak.Two services an hour operate on weekends in both directions. The station stopping pattern and number of carriages on services vary according to the time table.Visit www.cityrail.info⁄timetables for timetable information.

*7518 SPEED CAMERA ON F3—Mr Chris Hartcher asked the Minister for Roads—

In relation to the speed camera located near Mount White on the northern pathway of the F3, what was the total value of infringement notices issued in respect of offences detected between 1 July 2008 and 30 June 2009?Answer—I am advised:The RTA does not collect this information. This question should be directed to the Treasurer who is responsible for the State Debt Recovery Office.

*7519 INFRINGEMENT NOTICES FOR OFFENCES ON F3—Mr Chris Hartcher asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) How many infringement notices were issued by police for traffic offences on the F3 between 1 January 2008 and 30 June 2009?

(2) How many drivers were arrested for traffic offences on the F3 between 1 January and 30 June 2009?Answer—The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) analyses NSW recorded crime statistics. I suggest the Honourable Member's questions are more appropriately addressed to the Attorney General, within whose portfolio the Bureau resides.






*7520 PLANNING ASSESSMENT COMMISSION—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) How many applications were received for appointment as members of the Planning Assessment Commission?

(2) How long was the selection process for member of the Planning Assessment Commission and what criteria was applied?

(3) Did the Minister or her department ask for people to nominate as members of the Planning Assessment Commission?

Answer—(1) 106.(2) Advertisements were placed with various national media outlets in May⁄June 2008 calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from interested parties for appointment to the Planning Assessment Commission (PAC). Information packages describing the role of the PAC were issued to potential applicants on request. The selection criteria applied was that applicants must be required to demonstrate a high level of expertise in one or more of the following fields: planning, architecture, heritage, the environment, urban design land economics, traffic and transport, law engineering, tourism or government and public administration, as well as having:

• Demonstrated experience in dealing with multiple stakeholders;• High level communication skills;• Capability to drive high profile outcomes in a credible and authoritative manner;• Demonstrated analytical skills.

Following the closing date for EOIs on 8 August 2008 an independent expert firm of consultants was engaged to undertake a comprehensive evaluation of all applications. Interviews were held on 14 and 18 August 2008 before a Panel of three:

• Robyn Kruk (Director General, Premiers Department)• David Richmond (Coordinator General) and• Sam Haddad (Director General, Department of Planning).

The Panel's recommendations were referred to the Minister.The recommendations were submitted to Cabinet and appointments to the PAC (including the position of Chair) were made on 4 September 2008.I am advised the former Minister, the Hon Frank Sartor MP, did not request people to nominate as members of the Planning Assessment Commission.

*7521 DRAFT CENTRES POLICY—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) How many submissions did the Minister or her department receive on the Draft Centres Policy?(2) Will these submissions be made public?

(a) If so, when?(b) If not, why not?

(3) When was the Draft Centres Policy written?(4) Who was consulted during the drafting process?(5) Who has she, as Minister, met with to discuss this policy?Answer—(1) To date 106 submissions have been received.(2) (a) and (b) No, it is not intended that the submissions be made public as it was not indicated that

would be the case in the invitation to make submissions. The submissions can be accessed from the Department upon request.

(3) The draft Policy was formally released in April 2009, following consultations with key stakeholders. (4) A number of stakeholders were consulted during the development of the draft document including

professional bodies, government agencies and industry representatives such as the Local Government and Shires Associations, NSW Business Chamber, Property Council of Australia, Shopping Centre Council of Australia, Bulky Goods Retailers Association, Australian Retailers Association,






Queensland Retail Traders Association, Urban Taskforce, NSW Direct Factory Outlets and Planning Institute of Australia.

(5) I have met with representatives from ALDI, Friends of Greater Sydney (FROGS), Westfield, the Master Grocers Association and the Urban Taskforce regarding this policy.

*7523 WYANGALA DAM REVIEW—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Water, and Minister for Regional Development—

(1) With reference to the Minister's statement in his letter to me (reference MSO09⁄2010 dated 1 September 2009) that on 22 July he estimated that the review of the impact of the closure of the road over the Wyangala Dam by the Hon I Armstrong OBE, would take 4 to 6 weeks, has the Minister further refined the date when the report is to be submitted?

(2) Given the significant concern of the Wyangala community about this issue, on what date will the Minister release it to the public?

Answer—I have received the review by the Hon. Ian Armstrong AM OBE.I commend Mr Armstrong for his comprehensive investigations and presentation of options best supported by the local community. Mr Armstrong has presented the findings of his report to the local community and will also provide hard copies of the report to the local Councils.I have responded to Mr Armstrong's report with a suitable path forward and I reiterate that no works will occur until the issue of an alternative access is resolved to the satisfaction of local Councils and the Wyangala community.

*7524 OOMA WATER INC.—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) Given the decision by the Rail Infrastructure Corporation to charge Ooma Water Inc. rent of $1,000 per kilometre (a total of $3,000 a year) to lay a 120 mm poly pipe along the rail easement between Garema and Ooma Water's customers, what actual costs will the RIC incur as a result of the laying of the pipeline?

(2) Will the Minister explain the basis for the charge of $1,000 a kilometre?Answer—I am advised:The rail easement between Garema and Ooma Water's customers is under the responsibility of the Australian Rail Track Corporation.

*7525 EMERGENCY SERVICES MERGER—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister for Small Business—

(1) Given the concerns of the Gunnary Bushfire Brigade in the Boorowa Shire about the amalgamation of the Emergency Services and Police Departments, will the Minister provide the names of all of the Rural Fire Service Brigades that he consulted before deciding on this merger?

(2) Of the brigades that he consulted how many approved of the merger and how many were opposed?(3) If the Minister undertook no consultation, did the Premier consult him before he announced this

merger?Answer—In relation to questions (1) to (3), I refer the Honourable Member to my comments on pages 17711 - 17713 of Hansard.

*7527 PAYMENT OF OVERDUE BILLS—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What bills that are 90 days or over remain unpaid at Hornsby Hospital?(2) What bills that are 45 days or over remain unpaid at Hornsby Hospital?(3) What measures are being undertaken to ensure these outstanding bills are paid?Answer—(1) to (3) Balance sheets together with the management of liquidity and payments are maintained at an

Area Health Service level not on an individual hospital basis.






All Area Health Services are required to manage their budgets and pay creditors within established timeframes. Where that has not occurred, NSW Health is assisting Health Services to improve their processes and meet the payment timeframes which have been set.Paying bills on time is an ongoing process and the situation regarding the number and value of invoices changes on a day-to-day basis.

*7529 CAR HOON LAWS—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

In relation to car hoon laws and charges in the Cronulla electorate:How many people in the Cronulla electorate have been charged under the car hoon laws, introduced in 2008 in:

(a) 2008;(b) year to date?

Answer—The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) analyses NSW recorded crime statistics. I suggest the Honourable Member's question is more appropriately addressed to the Attorney General, within whose portfolio the Bureau resides.

*7530 REVENUE RAISED—TRAFFIC INFRINGEMENTS—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) How much State revenue has been raised from traffic infringements within the Miranda Police Local Area Command?

(2) How many police officers are stationed within the Miranda Police Local Area?Answer—The NSW Police Force has advised me:(1) This question should be directed to the Treasurer. (2) Details of police numbers at Local Area Commands are posted on the NSW Police Force internet

site, www.police.nsw.gov.au

*7534 PROCESSING TIME FOR SOLAR REBATES—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) What is the promised maximum time for processing NSW solar rebates?(2) Has this maximum processing time been met?(3) What is the longest current actual processing time (as of 7 September 2009)?(4) What is the average current actual processing time (as of 7 September 2009)?(5) If the answer to questions (3) or (4) is greater than the promised time, what are the reasons for the

delay?Answer—I am advised:(1) The Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water's website states is committed to

processing hot water rebate applications as quickly as possible. (2) See response to question one.(3) The longest processing time for an application, where an applicant has complied with all terms and

conditions, has been 91 days. It should be noted that timeframes are longer when applicants do not provide all information required. In these cases the Department is required to follow up with applicants for further information.

(4) For rebates where applicants have complied with all terms and conditions, the average processing time is 66 days.

(5) The Government is dedicating additional resources to deal with the large spike in applications that have arisen as a result of the increase of the Federal Government solar hot water rebate. It is pleasing that the program has been so enthusiastically received by NSW households.

*7535 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF NSW MARITIME—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—






(1) Did the Chief Executive of NSW Maritime contact police regarding an investigation being conducted by Rocks Police Station or any other police into the activities of the General Counsel of NSW Maritime?

(2) At what level of the police force were these contacts made?(3) (a) On how many occasions have approaches been made to the police by the Chief Executive?

(b) When were they made?(c) Why?

Answer—The NSW Police Force has advised me that it liaised on a number of occasions with NSW Maritime with regards to the progress of an investigation into and prosecution of one of its employees.

*7536 THE ANCHORAGE SHOAL BAY—STAY BY TEACHERS—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) Did teachers from North Sydney Girls High School stay at the Anchorage Shoal Bay on Sunday 9 August, Monday 10 August, and Tuesday 11 August?

(2) If yes, what was the reason for this stay?(3) How much did this accommodation cost and was this cost met by the teachers, the school or the

Department of Education and Training?Answer—I am advised that teachers from North Sydney Girls High School attended a professional learning activity to support school and Department of Education and Training projects at the Anchorage, Shoal Bay. Teachers stayed on Sunday 9 and Monday 10 August, and returned home in the afternoon of Tuesday 11 August.I am advised the total conference cost was $21,460.50 and was met from the school's professional learning funds.

*7537 BUDGET PAPER NO. 4—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

Regarding Ageing, Disability and Home Care projects listed in the 2009-2010 BudgetIn Budget Paper No. 4 at page 4-18 the following entries appear:

• Accommodation Young People Relocated from Nursing Homes - Various• Accommodation Facilities for New Clients - Various• Asset Rationalisation - Various• Disability Assistance Package (DAP) - Various• Modification of Group Homes (Safety and Compliance) - Various• Stronger Together Accommodation Facilities for Clients - Various• Upgrade of Respite Centres - Various

What is the amount under the entry that has been allocated to the Murrumbidgee electorate?Answer—The electorate of Murrumbidgee is located within the Western Region of Ageing, Disability and Home Care, NSW Department of Human Services.Total funding for the Western Region in 2009-10 for the above entries is estimated to be more than $10 million.

*7538 JUVENILE JUSTICE COMMITTEES AND BOARDS—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Volunteering, Minister for Youth, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Veterans' Affairs—

In relation to Juvenile Justice committees and boards:(1) Of the 369 NSW Government committees and boards (as noted in the Sydney Morning Herald on 20

July 2009), how many are administered⁄managed from the Juvenile Justice portfolio?(2) What are the names of each of these Juvenile Justice committees and boards that satisfy (1)?Answer—(1) Juvenile Justice supports two structures under Board and Committee arrangements.(2) The Young Offenders' Advisory Council, a joint initiative between the Minister for Juvenile Justice






and the Attorney General.The Serious Young Offenders Review Panel.

*7539 MORISSET HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS—Mr Greg Piper asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) Are Morisset High School students allegedly being picked up by police and transported to the school in police wagons on occasion prior to school hours?

(2) Is this action occurring at the request of the school?Answer—(1) Students are not being transported by police wagon to school prior to school hours. On occasion,

truanting students have been returned to school during school hours in a police vehicle as a result of police activity in monitoring possible truancy. Morisset High School then manages the truancy in accordance with the school discipline policy.

(2) I am advised that Morisset Police have been working closely with Morisset High School and a local shopping centre, to deter students frequenting the shopping centre prior to and after school, due to centre management requests and a perception of an increase in theft and negative behaviours in the community. However, Morisset High School has not requested that students be transported to the school by the police and is not aware that such action has occurred on any occasions.

*7541 CUMBERLAND HEALTH AND PEST AUTHORITY—Mr Greg Piper asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

What is the maximum distance pest officers employed by the Cumberland Health and Pest Authority are authorised to travel for site inspections?Answer—I am advised that the Authority's district is divided into three divisions, and each division has at least one Ranger available for pest animal services. It is Authority policy that a Ranger from another division would not perform work outside of his or her division unless in an emergency situation, or unless instructed otherwise by the Senior Ranger.

*7542 RECREATIONAL FISHING LICENCES—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

In relation to recreational fishing licences in the Tweed electorate:(1) What is the total number of recreational fishing licences in the Tweed electorate as well as any

interim licences issued to people outside the State in the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

(2) What is the total revenue raised from recreational fishing in the Tweed electorate in the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

(3) How many commercial fishing licences have been bought back that previously had the ability to operate in the Tweed electorate?

Answer—(1) (a) Determining the total number of recreational fishing fees paid in the Tweed electorate is not

possible as post code information for three day and one month fees is not recorded in the Industry and Investment NSW Recreational Fishing Fee Database. However, approximately 8000 people paid the recreational fishing fee for the Tweed concession area in 2007. (b) Approximately 7800 people paid the recreational fishing fee for the Tweed concession area in 2008.(c) Approximately 5700 people have paid the recreational fishing fee for the Tweed concession area in 2009 to date.






(2) (a) to (c) Determining the total revenue raised from the recreational fishing fees in the Tweed electorate is not possible as post code information for three day and one month fees is not recorded in the Industry and Investment NSW Recreational Fishing Fee Database.

(3) As part of the recreational fishing haven process in 2002, 18 fishing businesses were bought out in response to the partial closures in the Tweed and Richmond Rivers. In relation to more recent marine park buy outs, 6 fishing businesses that had access to Region 1 including the Tweed River within the electorate have been bought out.

*7543 NSW OTITIS MEDIA SCREENING PROGRAM—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

Given your advice in relation to the NSW Otitis Media Screening Program for Aboriginal children (Question 6738):How many indigenous children have received screening and treatment from the NSW Otitis Media Screening Program in the Tweed electorate in the following years:

(a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

Answer—I am advised:

(a) to (c) Screening data is collected by Area Health Service region, rather than by electorate, on a financial year basis. Total screenings for 0-6 year old Aboriginal children in the North Coast region for financial year 2006-07 was 2,982 with a further 3,180 screenings being conducted in 2007-08.

*7544 LICENSED SECURITY PERSONNEL—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

In relation to licensed security personnel in the Tweed⁄Bryon Local Area Command:(1) How many licensed security personnel were there in the Tweed⁄Byron Local Area Command in the

following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

(2) How many security master licences were there in the Tweed ⁄Byron Local Area Command in the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

Answer—The licensing of security firms and personnel does not fall within the Gaming and Racing portfolio - the Security Industry Registry at NSW Police has this responsibility. This question needs to be directed to the Minister for Police.

*7545 SPEECH AT EUREKA AWARDS—Mr Michael Richardson asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) Did the Premier compare those who question climate change to Nazi "appeasers" during a speech at the Eureka Awards?

(2) As he was reported later saying that he should have perhaps clarified his comments, what clarification was intended?

Answer—(1) and (2) On August 18 2009 I was proud to attend the Australian Museum's Eureka Prizes Award Dinner. I gave a short presentation and presented two awards, each sponsored by the NSW Government:

• the 2009 NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change Eureka Prize for Innovative Solutions to Climate Change; and






• the 2009 NSW Office of Science and Medical Research Eureka Prize for Medical Research.For the past 20 years the Eureka Awards have provided a wonderful opportunity to highlight, celebrate and reflect on the achievements of Australian science. I was proud to attend this event and the evening was once again an outstanding success. I look forward to another 20 years of continued recognition and celebration of scientific achievements through the Eureka Awards.

*7546 BIOBANKING AGREEMENTS—Mr Michael Richardson asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) How many biobanking agreements have been negotiated since the scheme was set up?(2) If none have been signed as the biobanking website suggests, why not?(3) What impact has the Catherine Hill decision in the Land and Environment Court had on the

biobanking scheme?Answer—I am advised:(1) There have been no BioBanking Agreements negotiated to date. (2) The BioBanking Scheme is voluntary and relies on the actions of the private sector to bring about

trading. The NSW Government has now established all of the systems required to support decision-making by the private sector. I understand landowners are delaying entering into BioBanking Agreements until they have a guaranteed purchaser for their credits. Developers are currently undertaking assessments as part of the Scheme, creating demand for credits. There is demonstrated landowner interest, with 31 Expressions of Interest lodged to date, and a number of developers looking to secure biodiversity offsets using BioBanking Agreements. It is expected that the first BioBanking Agreement and credit transaction will occur in the next few months.

(3) None. There is no connection between BioBanking and the Catherine Hill Bay decision.

*7547 SOLAR BONUS SCHEME TARIFFS—Mr Michael Richardson asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) How many kilowatts of electricity are produced by the 400 square metres of panels at Lane Cove River Tourist Park?

(2) Will Lane Cove River Tourist Park be able to participate in the NSW Solar Bonus Scheme for systems up to 10 kilowatts in size?

(3) How long will it take NPWS to recoup the costs of these panels?(4) Why did NPWS not split the 400 square metres area of panels into six smaller systems across six

parks so all six could qualify for Solar Bonus Scheme tariffs?Answer—I am advised:(1) Up to 70 KWh per day dependent on season and weather. (2) No, the scheme is limited to small consumers less than 160 MWh. Lane Cove River Tourist Park

consumes substantially more power than the cut-off limit, and the project is not roof mounted. (3) Costs to the Tourist Park have been minimal. The provision, installation and maintenance of the solar

panels are part of a partnership arrangement with Earth Utilities to highlight solar energy and assess payback periods.

(4) The project was designed specifically for the Tourist Park. Concept design and project agreements were made prior to the announcement of the Solar Bonus Scheme. The project was also designed to stabilise and regenerate the embankment where the panels are installed.

*7548 ELECTIVE SURGERY WAITING LIST—APRIL 2009—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) How many people were waiting for elective surgery in NSW hospitals in April 2009?(2) How many were in Category A "not ready for care" and not counted?Answer—(1) Waiting list data is released quarterly on the NSW Health Website:

www.health.nsw.gov.au/reports/reports.asp






As at the end of April 2009 there were 64,637 patients on the elective surgery waiting list.(2) Nil.

*7549 ELECTIVE SURGERY WAITING LIST—IN MAY 2009—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) How many people were waiting for elective surgery at NSW hospitals in May 2009?(2) How many were in Category A "not ready for care" and not counted? Answer—(1) Waiting list data is released quarterly on the NSW Health Website:

www.health.nsw.gov.au⁄reports⁄reports.aspAs at the end of May 2009 there were 65,032 patients on the elective surgery waiting list.

(2) Nil.

*7550 ELECTIVE SURGERY WAITING LIST—JUNE 2009—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) How many people were waiting for elective surgery at NSW hospitals in June 2009?(2) How many were in Category A "not ready for care" and not counted? Answer—(1) Waiting list data is released quarterly on the NSW Health Website:

www.health.nsw.gov.au⁄reports⁄reports.aspAs at the end of June 2009 there were 64,512 patients on the elective surgery waiting list.

(2) Nil.

*7551 JAN MCCLELLAND—Mr Greg Smith asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) How much was Ms Jan McClelland paid by the Attorney General's department during the financial years: (a) 2006-2007;(b) 2007-2008;(c) 2008-2009?

(2) What tasks, if any, is she currently performing for your department?Answer—I am advised:(1) The Department publishes details of money paid to contractors and consultants in its annual report in

accordance with the Annual Reports (Departments) Act 1985.(2) Nil.

*7552 HARBOUR BRIDGE CRAVE BREAKFAST COSTS—Mr George Souris asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) What is the cost to the people of NSW of staging the Breakfast on the Bridge during the Crave Festival?

(2) What is the break up of this cost including, specifically: (a) cost of soil and turf including plastic sheeting;(b) transportation costs;(c) cost of provision of toilets;(d) cost of staff, including extra event staff, RTA, Sydney Harbour Bridge and other public servants

assigned to the event in the days preceding it, on the day and subsequently;(e) cost of conducting the ballot and web-site;(f) clean up costs and disposal;(g) cost of cutting up the turf and delivering it to schools;(h) bridge toll revenue forgone;






(i) any other costs associated with the event such as provision of bunting, banners and signage and any other costs;

(j) costs associated with the launch including international journalists' travel and accommodation;(k) brochures and advertising costs?

Answer—Events NSW has provided Community Engagement and Events Division within Department of Premier and Cabinet with a budget of $1,115,000 for the delivery of the Breakfast on the Bridge event as part of the Crave Festival. These budgeted costs are being fully reimbursed by Events NSW which will result in Nil direct costs being incurred through DPC.Other Agency costs such as RTA and Police will be absorbed by the respective agencies.The $1,115,000 budget for this event principally comprises of:

Event Production Costs - $787,000Marketing and Communications - $181,000Employee Related Expenses - $147,000TOTAL - $1,115,000

The estimated financial value of the publicity created from the Breakfast on the Bridge event for NSW is up to $10 million.

*7554 CEILING INSULATION REBATE SCHEME—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

In relation to the Ceiling Insulation Rebate Scheme:(1) How many $300 ceiling insulation rebates were paid between 1 October 2007 and 30 June 2009?(2) Is the Minister aware of any cases where rebates were paid to persons whose insulation costs were

already entirely met under the Federal Homeowner Insulation Program?(3) If the answer to question (2) is yes:

(a) How many such cases is the Minister aware of?(b) What action is being taken to recover such funds?

Answer—I am advised:(1) 10,800 ceiling insulation rebates were paid. 9,255 of these were for the maximum amount of $300. (2) No. The NSW Government took action shortly after the Federal Program commenced to ensure total

payments from both programs do not exceed a recipient's total costs. (3) (a) Not applicable.

(b) Not applicable.

*7556 BUDGET PAPER NO. 4—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

Regarding Education infrastructure listed in the 2009-2010 Budget:(1) In Budget Paper No. 4 on pages 4-23 to 4-29 the following entries appear:

• Electronic Document and Record Management System - Various• State wide Compliance Program 2009-10 Various Schools - Various• State wide Demountable Replacement Program 2009-10 - Various• Building Better Schools - New Primary School Halls - Various• Building Better Schools - New High School Gymnasiums - Various• Learn or Earn - Trade Schools - Various• Learning Management and Business Reform Project - Various• State-wide Compliance and Additions 2008-09 Various Schools - Various• State-wide Demountable Replacement Program 2007-08 - Various• State-wide Demountable Replacement Program 2008-09 - Various• State-wide Gymnasiums and Halls Program 2008-09 - Various• State-wide Halls⁄Gymnasiums Program 2007-08 - Various• Digital Education Revolution - Various• Trade Training Centre - Various• TAFE E-Learning Systems 2009-10 - Various• TAFE Student Administration and Class Management System - Stage 1 - Various






• TAFE Institutes - Welding Bays Upgrade - Various• TAFE Online Project Stage 2 Various

What is the amount under the entry that has been allocated to the Murrumbidgee electorate?(2) In Budget Paper No. 4 at page 4-67 the following entry appears:

• New Houses to Meet Demand Growth Various

What is the amount under the entry that has been allocated to the Oxley electorate?Answer—(1) The following entries:

• Electronic Document and Record Management System;• Statewide Compliance Program 2009-10 Various Schools;• Learning Management and Business Reform Project;• Statewide Compliance and Additions 2008-09 Various Schools;• TAFE E-Learning Systems 2009-10;• TAFE Student Administration and Class Management System - Stage 1;• TAFE institutes - Welding Bays Upgrade; and• TAFE Online Project Stage 2;

are all part of a Statewide program and not specific to any electorate. No amount has specifically been allocated to the Murrumbidgee electorate.The Murrumbidgee electorate received the following funding:

• Learn or Earn - Trade Schools;for Griffith TAFE in the amount of $525,000.00.In relation to the Digital Education Revolution, the total funding amounts allocated by electorates is not available at this stage due to the variable nature of student enrolments and staffing entitlements upon which the expenditure of funds is based.The Murrumbidgee electorate did not receive any funding under the remaining programs.(2) Questions on the Teacher Housing Authority should be referred to the Minister for Commerce.

*7557 RTA EMPLOYEE DEREK WAINOHU—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Roads—

In relation to suspended RTA employee Derek Wainohu:(1) Given that the Premier suspended Hells Angels Chapter President and RTA crash laboratory manager

Derek Wainohu on full pay on 25 March 2009, what was his total annual salary for the 2008-2009 financial year?

(2) How long has Derek Wainohu been employed by the RTA, indicating the years and the job positions that he has held over this time?

(3) Did Derek Wainohu have access to the RTA DRIVES database?(4) If yes to (3), what was the nature of his access i.e. police files, personal files, as well as the length of

time that he has had access to the database?(5) Was the Minister aware of Derek Wainohu's membership in the Hells Angels?(6) If yes to (5), when did the Minister become aware of this membership?(7) Was the Minister aware of Police Superintendent Dave Evans and RTA Chief Les Wielinga's April

2007 correspondence that labelled Derek Wainohu as "high risk"?(8) If yes to (7), when did the Minister become aware of this?(9) When will the investigation into Derek Wainohu's activities be completed?(10) Will the results of this investigation be made public and⁄or presented to the Parliament?(11) If yes to (10), when will these results be made public?Answer—I am advised:(1) Mr Wainohu's total annual salary from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009 was $99,654 (gross).(2) Mr Wainohu commenced employment as a contractor in May 1991, prior to winning a permanent position as "Test Laboratory Manager" in December 1996. Mr Wainohu continued in this role, through various name changes, until his suspension and subsequent termination of employment in 2009.(3) No.






(4) Not applicable.(5) to (8) On 14 September 2009 I became the Minister responsible for the combined Transport and Roads portfolio.(9) to (11) I am advised that the investigation into Mr Wainohu's activities was finalised on 7 August 2009, and that the result of the investigations was the termination of Mr Wainohu's employment which was effective on 7 August 2009.

*7560 FRIDGE BUYBACK SCHEME—Mr John Turner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

Given your advice concerning the fridge buyback scheme (Question 6816):(1) What regional centres will the scheme be extended to over the next six months?(2) What criteria will be used to determine those regional centres?(3) Why were those regional centres chosen rather than other areas?(4) What can people do who are outside Sydney, Illawarra and those regional areas to access the

scheme?(5) (a) As the scheme presently only operates in Sydney and the Illawarra and will operate in some

regional centres, is it discriminatory to other regions of New South Wales?(b) If so, why?

Answer—I am advised:(1) It is planned to extend the Scheme to the South Coast, the Central Coast and the Blue Mountains.(2) Expansion of the Scheme to regional areas is based on cost effectiveness, the logistical challenges of

the area, such as transportation and storage capacity, and the willingness of local councils to support the Scheme by encouraging community participation.

(3) Local councils in the South Coast, the Central Coast and the Blue Mountains region showed signs of delivering a high participation rate.

(4) People living outside areas in which the Scheme operates are unable to access it. However, as referred to in Question 1 and response to Question on Notice 6816, the Scheme is being progressively expanded to regional areas of New South Wales.

(5) (a) No. The Scheme does not only operate in Sydney and the Illawarra. It is not economically efficient to run the Scheme in remote areas.(b) Not applicable.


*7562 FRIDGE BUYBACK SCHEME—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) Can the Minister explain why the Fridge Buyback scheme will reach the most northern region of NSW by the end of this year but will fail to reach the southern electorate of Albury?

(2) What regional electorates in NSW will be incorporated in the scheme by December 2009?Answer—I am advised:(1) The Fridge Buyback Scheme is being progressively expanded to regional areas of NSW.

A number of local councils participate in the current phase of the Scheme, and are signatories to Memorandums of Understanding. Council support is provided through marketing activities, such as brochures in rate notices and coverage in local papers, as well as identification of local companies able to provide a collection service and interim storage facilities. Tweed Shire Council is one of the current Fridge Buyback Scheme partners, and the scheme is expected to start in this area in early 2010. To facilitate the Scheme's expansion to regional areas, a new business model is about to be trialled in the Wollondilly local government area. If successful, Albury Council would be a welcome participant.






The timing of further expansion is also dependent on logistical issues such as transport and storage capacity, and the capacity of local councils to support the Scheme by encouraging community participation.

(2) As of December 2009, the following electorates will be included in the Fridge Buyback Scheme:Auburn, Balmain, Bankstown, Baulkham Hills, Blacktown, Blue Mountains, Camden, Campbelltown, Canterbury, Castle Hill, Coogee, Drummoyne, East Hills, Fairfield, Gosford, Granville, Heathcote, Hornsby, Keira, Kiama, Kogarah, Ku-ring-gai, Lake Macquarie, Lane Cove, Liverpool, Macquarie Fields, Manly, Maroubra, Marrickville, Menai, Miranda, North Shore, Oatley, Parramatta, Penrith, Rockdale, Ryde, Shellharbour, Smithfield, Strathfield, Sydney, Toongabbie, Willoughby, Wollondilly, Wollongong and Wyong.

*7563 ISSUING OF LAPTOP COMPUTERS—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) How many laptop computers have been delivered to teachers in the Albury electorate to date and to what schools?

(2) How many laptops have been provided to students in the Albury electorate and to what schools?Answer—(1) 107 teacher laptops have been delivered to schools in the Albury electorate to date:

• Albury High School - 27• James Fallon High School - 21• Tumbarumba High School - 8• Corowa High School - 16• Billabong High School - 13• Murray High School - 22

A further allocation of teacher laptops will be distributed in Term 4, 2009.(2) 198 student laptops have been delivered to schools in the Albury electorate to date:

• James Fallon High School - 161 laptops• Tumbarumba High School - 37 laptops

Schools in the Albury electorate scheduled to receive student laptops in Term 4, 2009 are:• Albury High School - 232• Corowa High School - 95• Billabong High School - 92• Murray High School - 170

Further, Wewak Street School and Kandeer School have been allocated student laptops in 2009, but both schools decided to convert them to flexible funding for alternative technology for students with disabilities.

*7564 STAFF REDUNDANCIES—GREATER SOUTHERN AREA HEALTH SERVICE—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) How many staff were offered voluntary redundancies by Greater Southern Area Health Service in Albury, Corowa, Culcairn, Henty, Holbrook and Tumbarumba during April to June 2009?

(2) How many staff at the above locations accepted a voluntary redundancy during this period?(3) How many staff in the above locations were offered voluntary redundancies during July and August

2009 and how many accepted a voluntary redundancy?(4) Of the total number of staff offered a voluntary redundancy at the above locations, how many were

Registered or Enrolled nurses?(5) Of the total number of staff offered a voluntary redundancy at the above locations how many were

aged 55 years and over?Answer—I am advised: (1) 14.(2) 13. (3) Two offered and two accepted.






(4) Nil. (5) Three.

*7565 IMPORTED CEILING INSULATION—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Citizenship, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

As a result of the increased demand for ceiling insulation created by the Federal Government's Home Insulation Program:(1) Has the Minister received any complaints or concerns regarding ceiling insulation imported from

China possibly containing formaldehyde?(2) Is the Minister aware that packaging for some imported ceiling insulation does not carry labelling

identifying the chemical composition of the product?(3) (a) Has the Office of Fair Trading conducted any tests on imported ceiling insulation?

(b) If not, will the Minister initiate such testing?(4) Does all imported ceiling insulation meet relevant Australia Standards?Answer—I am advised by the Office of Fair Trading that it has no record of any complaints from consumers relating to the presence of formaldehyde in ceiling insulation imported from China.I have asked Fair Trading to examine whether any ceiling insulation currently provided in New South Wales is being misrepresented as meeting the Australian standard.Any consumers with concerns or complaints about ceiling insulation should contact Fair Trading or the Federal Department of Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts which administers the Commonwealth program supporting the provision of insulation for residential homes across Australia.

*7566 STIMULUS PACKAGE—PORT STEPHENS SCHOOLS—Mr Craig Baumann asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

In relation to the Federal Government stimulus package:(1) Which schools in the Port Stephens electorate have applied for funding?(2) What is the cost of each project?(3) What is the nature of each application?Answer—This information is available at the NSW Building the Education Revolution website: www.ber.nsw.gov.au

*7567 DETERMINATION OF BLACK SPOT—Mr Craig Baumann asked the Minister for Roads—

(1) How does the RTA determine a black spot?(2) Does at least one death have to occur at an intersection⁄bend to be considered a black spot?(3) Does at least one death have to occur at an intersection⁄bend⁄black spot to be considered for funding

for an upgrade?Answer—I am advised that information on the NSW Black Spot program, including a summary of requirements in regard to the eligibility of projects, is available on the Roads and Traffic Authority website.

*7568 FLASHING SPEED SIGNS IN SCHOOL ZONES—Mr Craig Baumann asked the Minister for Roads—

In relation to Government efforts to improve safety in school zones and the rollout of flashing signs enforcing speed limits in school zones:(1) (a) Are there any flashing speed signs proposed for schools in the Port Stephens electorate in the

2009-10 financial year?(b) If so, which schools?

(2) Of the $46.5 million allocated to installing flashing lights in schools, how much has been spent?Answer—I am advised:(1) A list of schools with flashing light warnings is available on the Roads and Traffic Authority

website.






(2) So far $12.5 million has been spent installing flashing lights. In addition to the installation costs of flashing lights, the budget also provides for the operation and maintenance of existing flashing lights throughout NSW.

*7569 TEMPORARY POLICE STATION—Mr Craig Baumann asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) Can the Minister provide an estimate of the cost of establishing a temporary police station at 18 Sturgeon Street, Raymond Terrace and relocating police to the temporary station during construction?

(2) If not, why has there not been a proper costing of this part of the project?Answer—The NSW Police Force has advised me:(1) The cost of refurbishing the temporary police station has been estimated at $640,000 ex GST, while

the estimated cost of relocating officers, both to the temporary station and from there into the new station, is $90,000 ex GST. This will ensure that the local policing presence in Raymond Terrace is maintained while the new station is being built.

(2) N⁄A.

*7570 AVOS ISSUED—Mr Craig Baumann asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

What is the number of AVOs issued in the Port Stephens Local Area Command for the following periods:(a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

Answer—Apprehended Violence Orders are issued by the courts, not the NSW Police Force. I suggest the Member direct his question to the Attorney General.

*7571 EXHAUST NOISE LEVELS—Mr Craig Baumann asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) What are the exhaust noise levels regulated for: (a) motor cars;(b) motorcycles other than Harley Davidson;(c) Harley Davidson motorcycles?

(2) How many infringements for exceeding the regulated exhaust noise levels have been issued to Harley Davidson motorcycle riders in: (a) 2006;(b) 2007;(c) 2008?

Answer—I am advised:The RTA does not regulate exhaust noise levels for light motor vehicles. The relevant legislation is administered by the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water. Accordingly, all queries should be directed to the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment.

*7573 NEW BRIDGE OVER SPORTSMANS CREEK—Mr Steve Cansdell asked the Minister for Roads—

Given that the NSW Government promised to build a new bridge over Sportsmans Creek at Lawrence in 2000, can the Minister advise:(1) Has a site selection study been completed?(2) If so, what are the route options for the new bridge?(3) Has the community of Lawrence been consulted in regard to route options?(4) When will the NSW Government honour its commitment to build a new bridge over Sportsmans

Creek?Answer—






I am advised:(1) Concept investigations have been undertaken into several options for a new bridge, including the

option of widening and rebuilding the existing timber structure.(2) Route options examined include upstream crossings at Grafton Street and Rutland Street, a new

bridge on the existing alignment and a new bridge directly adjacent to the existing bridge. The proposal to demolish the existing bridge and replace it with a new bridge using modern materials has been recommended by the RTA. However, before demolishing the existing bridge the RTA requires the agreement of the Heritage Council of NSW.

(3) Community consultation has been undertaken. Subject to agreement being reached with the NSW Heritage Office to demolish the existing bridge, further extensive consultation with the community will be performed, with detailed investigations into concept options to be undertaken with the community.

(4) The NSW Government is committed to ensuring that the Lawrence community is provided with a safe bridge that serves the needs of the local community and through traffic. The RTA has recently completed repair works to keep the existing bridge in service until an agreement with the NSW Heritage Office is reached.

*7574 NEW BRIDGE OVER CLARENCE RIVER—Mr Steve Cansdell asked the Minister for Roads—

Given that the NSW Government gave an "iron clad guarantee" to build a new bridge over the Clarence River at Grafton in 2003, can the Minister advise:(1) When will the review and updated cost estimates being conducted by the RTA into the Grafton

Bridge project be available?(2) Does the NSW Government still consider that the Grafton Bridge is of a high priority?(3) When will the NSW Government honour its commitment and begin construction of a new bridge

over the Clarence River at Grafton?Answer—I am advised:Information on the additional crossing of the Clarence River at Grafton is available on the Roads and Traffic Authority's website.

*7575 REFUELLING INFRASTRUCTURE ON MERIMBULA LAKE—Mr Andrew Constance asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

What is being done to provide refuelling infrastructure on Merimbula Lake, given that Caltex is no longer supplying charter boats?Answer—Although Merimbula Lake comprises Crown land that is administered by Land and Property Management Authority, the provision of refuelling infrastructure on the Lake is a matter for the private sector.

*7576 FUNDING FOR PRINCES HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE—Mr Andrew Constance asked the Minister for Roads—

(1) What level of funding has been allocated for road maintenance and upgrades on the Princes Highway for financial year 2009-10 and what percentage of that is in the Bega electorate?

(2) What has been the expenditure on the Princes Highway for financial years 2008-09, 2007-08, 2006-07, 2005-06 and 2004-05?

(3) What allocation has been made for the Bega bypass and upgrades at Victoria and Dignams creeks?Answer—I am advised: (1) The 2009-10 State Budget allocated $78 million for road maintenance and upgrades on the Princes

Highway.Of this $78 million, $13.8 million or 17.6% has been allocated to the Bega electorate. The $78million is made up of:

• $62 million in upgrades, with $5.0 million of this or 6.4% allocated to the Bega electorate. • $15.9 million in maintenance, with $8.8 million or 55% of this allocated to the Bega

electorate.






• In addition to the $78million for upgrades and maintenance, a further $5 million will be spent on planning for future major upgrade projects

(2) Previous expenditure on the Princes Highway is • 2004-05 - $85.9 million • 2005-06 - $81.7 million • 2006-07 - $92.6 million • 2007-08 - $141.4 million • 2008-09 - $164.4 million

(3) The 2009-10 State Budget allocated $1.5 million for Bega Bypass, $3 million for Victoria Creek realignment and $0.5 million for Dignams Creek realignment.

*7577 REFORM OF POLITICAL DONATIONS—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

In relation to reform of political donations:(1) Will the Premier support an increase in public funding for election campaigning?(2) Will the Premier support an extension of the electronic blackout for campaign advertisements from

three days to seven days before polling day?(3) Will the Premier support restrictions on the number of TV and radio political advertisements during

the four weeks before the electronic blackout?Answer—The reform of political funding, donations and electoral expenditure, including restrictions on campaign advertising, is being examined as part of the Federal Government's Green Paper process.The NSW Government is working closely with the Commonwealth and other States and Territories to progress the issues raised in Part 1 of the Green Paper.

*7578 NSW SOLAR FLAGSHIP TASKFORCE—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

In relation to the NSW Solar Flagship Taskforce:(1) Has the NSW Solar Flagship Taskforce met with representatives of the Solar Systems Mildura

Project solar venture to consider collaboration?(2) If so, when and where did those meetings take place and what were the outcomes?Answer—I am advised:(1) and (2) No formal meeting has taken place between the Taskforce and Solar Systems, however, Solar

Systems did attend a solar energy workshop hosted by the NSW Government on 7 July 2009.

*7579 2008 WORKFORCE PROFILE—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

In relation to the 2008 Workforce Profile:Given your advice the 2008 Workforce Profile would be available by 30 June 2009 (Question 5167):(1) Is the NSW 2008 Workforce Profile posted on any Government website?(2) If so where is it posted?Answer—(1) and (2) The 2008 Workforce Profile is available on the Department of Premier and Cabinet website.

*7580 RYDE MOTOR REGISTRY—Mr Victor Dominello asked the Minister for Roads—

In relation to the Ryde Motor Registry:(1) How many customers attended the registry in:

(a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) 2009 to date?

(2) What is the number of full-time and part-time staff employed at the registry in: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) 2009 to date?






(3) What is the current normal processing time for customers attending the registry?Answer—I am advised:(1) (a) 189,146.

(b) 187,676.(c) 131,128 for January to 31 August 2009.

(2) (a) Average number of staff employed December 2007 was six part-time and 12 full-time.(b) Average number of staff employed December 2008 was five part-time and 13 full-time.(c) Average number of staff currently employed is five part-time and 11 full-time.These numbers reflect substantive positions only and do not include additional hours, Relief Pool or staff on loan.

(3) The August 2009 average waiting time for customers attending Ryde Motor Registry was seven minutes 13 seconds for Monday to Saturday trading.

*7581 NSW POLICE EXPENDITURE—Mr Victor Dominello asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

In reference to NSW Police Force new works allocations in Budget Paper No. 4 (Question 6940):(1) What works are taking place as a part of the "radio communication - phase 2" allocation as listed in

Budget Paper 4 of the 2009-10 Budget Papers?(2) (a) Will the Gladesville and Eastwood Local Area Commands receive any funding as a part of the

"radio communication - phase 2" allocation as listed in Budget Paper 4 of the 2009-10 Budget Papers?(b) If so, how much will be allocated to each Local Area Command?

(3) (a) Will the Gladesville and Eastwood Local Area Commands receive any funding as a part of the "roll out of tasers to first response police" allocation as listed in Budget Paper 4 of the 2009-10 Budget Papers?(b) If so, how much will be allocated to each Local Area Command?

(4) What is the cost of a police issued taser?(5) What company manufactures police issued tasers?Answer—The NSW Police Force has advised me :(1) and (2) Funding provided in the 2009-10 Budget for improvements to radio communications, mobile data terminals and information communications technology equipment are for statewide improvements to police systems. This funding is not allocated to specific Local Area Commands. (3) This funding is statewide.(4) The cost per unit is approximately $2,000 including holster, training and live cartridges.(5) TASER Incorporated.

*7582 DISABILITY CARE HOME—Mr Victor Dominello asked the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

In reference to advice received regarding DADHC works in progress allocations in Budget Paper No. 4 (Question 6947):What facility was replaced by the Department of Aging, Disability and Home Care in the Ryde Local Government Area?Answer—No properties in Ryde Local Government Area (LGA) have been replaced by Ageing, Disability and Home Care (ADHC), NSW Department of Human Services.In Ryde LGA, a new community living accommodation facility is being developed which will provide accommodation for 5 people with a disability.In addition, ADHC is redeveloping the Lachlan Large Residential Centre in Ryde LGA into cluster-style community living accommodation for people with a disability.






*7583 SECTION 82 REPORTS—Ms Pru Goward asked the Minister for Community Services—

(1) (a) Has the Department of Community Services implemented any mechanisms prompting caseworkers to provide reports, where required, under Section 82 of the Children and Young Persons (Care and Protection) Act 1998 to the Children's Court since 30 January 2009?(b) If not, why not?

(2) What was the ratio of actual Section 82 reports submitted compared to the total that should have been submitted under order by the Children's Court in: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

(3) In how many instances was there a failure to provide required Section 82 reports in: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

Answer—(1) (a) No.

(b) Improving Children's Court practices and processes is one of the key priorities being addressed through Keep them Safe. As part of this Community Services will implement amended practice procedures to reflect the changes. The changes are scheduled to occur in 2010.

(2) There is no data available on the submission of S 82 reports. (3) Not applicable.

*7584 SIBLING GROUPS IN FOSTER CARE—Ms Pru Goward asked the Minister for Community Services—

(1) How many sibling groups are in foster care in NSW?(2) Of these sibling groups, how many are in foster care together?(3) Of the sibling groups that are separated, how many are:

(a) managed by different Community Service Centres (CSCs);(b) managed by different agencies?

(4) How many sibling groups do the following CSCs retain together: (a) Gosford;(b) Wyong;(c) Chatswood?

(5) How does this compare generally with other CSCs in NSW?Answer—(1) to (5) NSW Community Services is committed to preserving and strengthening relationships between

siblings in out-of-home care by placing siblings together, or reunifying siblings who have been separated, whenever possible and when it is in the best interests of the children to do so. A report on sibling groups placed in OOHC is not currently available.

*7585 CONVICTION RATES—Ms Pru Goward asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What was the conviction rate for defendants appearing before magistrates in the Goulburn District Court in the following years: (a) 2006;(b) 2007;(c) 2008;(d) 2009?

(2) What was the conviction rate for defendants appearing before magistrates in the Moss Vale District Court in the following years: (a) 2006;(b) 2007;(c) 2008;(d) 2009?






(3) If the conviction rates reveal a contrast between the two courts, is this of concern to the Attorney General?

Answer—I am advised:Magistrates do not site in the District Court.The member is encouraged to consult the LawLink website, which has information about the locations where the District Court sits.

*7586 CAR HOON LAWS—Mr Chris Hartcher asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

In relation to car hoon laws introduced in 2008:(1) How many people have been charged since introduction in the Tuggerah Lakes Local Area

Command?(2) How many people have been charged since introduction in Brisbane Water Local Area Command?Answer—(1) and (2) The Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) analyses NSW recorded crime

statistics. I suggest the Honourable Member's questions are more appropriately addressed to the Attorney General, within whose portfolio the Bureau resides.

*7587 CENTRAL COAST TRAVEL ROUTES—Mr Chris Hartcher asked the Minister for Roads—

(1) How many motor vehicles travel along the Central Coast Highway each weekday?(2) How many travel along the Central Coast Pacific Highway?(3) How many travel along Terrigal Drive?(4) How many travel along Wyong Road?(5) How many travel along Avoca Drive?Answer—I am advised:The following table provides approximate current daily traffic volume estimates for both directions at a number of locations on the routes requested.

Central Coast Highway (HW30)Kariong 40,000

West Gosford 50,000

East Gosford 45,000

Erina 32,000

Wamberal 22,000

Long Jetty 29,000

Wilfred Barrett Drive 14,000

Pacific Highway (Highway 10)Wyoming Narara⁄Ourimbah 26,000

Wyong 22,000

Terrigal Drive (Main Road 505)East of Serpentine Road 26,000

Wyong Road (Main Road 335)East of Pacific Highway 34,000

Avoca Drive (Main Road 504)Green Point 28,000

Kincumber 25,000

*7588 BEACON HILL LEFT TURN ARROW—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Roads—






(1) Will the Minister survey residents living around Beacon Hill Road, Beacon Hill with a view to establishing residents' concerns about traffic light changes implemented at Warringah Road, Beacon Hill intersection approximately two years ago?

(2) If there is a high level of concern in relation to the left (western) turn red arrow, will the Minister act to remedy the situation?

Answer—I am advised:The left turn arrow for the slip lane from Beacon Hill Road onto Warringah Road was provided to address a high crash history involving vehicles attempting to merge with westbound traffic along Warringah Road. Pedestrians crossing the slip lane have been provided with pedestrian walk⁄don't walk signal control, which replaces the previous uncontrolled marked foot crossing. There are currently no plans to survey residents in this area. The signal control for the left turn movement from Beacon Hill Road into Warringah Road provides satisfactory and safe traffic conditions.

*7589 IM AND IO CLASSES—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

How many specialised IM and IO classes were⁄are in each Government primary school in Wakehurst electorate in the following years:

(a) 1995;(b) 2000;(c) 2005;(d) 2009 to date?

Answer—(a) to (d) There are no records available for 1995.

In 2000, 2005 and 2009 to date, there is one IO class at Cromer Public School and one IM class at Dee Why Public School.Many parents choose the option of integrating their children, who are identified as IM, into mainstream classes.

*7590 NORTHERN BEACHES HOSPITAL—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

When will you meet with local members of Parliament (from the electorates of Manly, Pittwater, Davidson and Wakehurst) and the chair persons of Manly and Mona Vale staff councils to discuss a timetable for delivery of the new Northern Beaches Hospital?Answer—I would be pleased to meet representatives of the area at an appropriate future time. Planning of major new health facilities is a complex matter and requires extensive consideration of the physical infrastructure, the clinical service configuration and workforce requirements. Appropriate consultation is also a key component of the planning process. Community, clinician and stakeholder consultation will be ongoing as planning for the Northern Beaches Hospital continues.

*7591 CENTROC WATER SECURITY STUDY—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Water, and Minister for Regional Development—

(1) When will the CENTROC Water Security Study being conducted by MWH Consulting be completed?

(2) On what date will the Minister release the findings of this consultancy and the government's response to the public?

Answer—(1) The management of the MWH consultancy for the CENTROC Water Security Study is being

undertaken by CENTROC members.(2) Release of the Study or publication of its findings is a matter for CENTROC to determine.






*7592 WIND FARMS—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) Why does the Department of Planning depend on the measurement of noise levels inside houses as a factor in the approval process for wind farms, when paddocks on adjoining properties are in fact the principal place of work of farmers?

(2) Given concerns raised in the Victorian Parliament about low frequency, sub-audible noise produced by wind-powered generators causing health problems, does the Department of Planning require wind farm developers to provide noise levels in paddocks and also information about low frequency sound as part of their environmental assessments?

(3) If not, why is the Department of Planning not addressing these occupational health and safety issues?Answer—(1) Assessment of noise from wind farm developments in New South Wales is undertaken in accordance

with Environmental Noise Guidelines: Wind Farms (SA EPA, 2003), which have been adopted as the applicable policy in this State.Noise impacts are assessed at residential premises (habitable structures) not otherwise associated with the wind farm. Impacts are not assessed in agricultural paddocks, given the mobile nature of potential receivers in these areas.This approach is similar to that taken for other development types, such as industrial developments (assessed in accordance with NSW Industrial Noise Policy (NSW EPA, 2000), for which noise impacts are assessed at habitable structures and recreational open space, but not for areas such as agricultural paddocks.

(2) The Environmental Noise Guidelines: Wind Farms (SA EPA, 2003) includes provisions for consideration of annoying acoustic characteristics, including infrasound.

(3) The Department of Planning assesses the acoustic impacts of wind farms as outlined under 1 and 2 above. Regulatory responsibility for work place occupational health and safety rests with the WorkCover Authority of NSW.

*7593 OLD TIVERTON SCHOOL BUILDING—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

Given the Minister's commitment to give the Harden Murrumburrah Historical Society "first refusal" on the old Tiverton School building once it has been declared surplus to the requirements of Murrumburrah Public School, and also given my letter to her of 6 July informing her that the society can afford to relocate but not buy the building, will the Minister donate the old school house to the historical society?Answer—I am pleased to advise that approval has been granted for the old Tiverton School building to be donated to the Harden Murrumburrah Historical Society provided that the Society meets the standard conditions that are imposed by the Department of Education and Training.

*7594 REPLACEMENT OF FLUORESCENT LAMPS—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) Regarding the IPART review of measures to improve energy and water efficiency (July 2009), have any Hornsby schools been denied the ability to replace fluorescent lamps with energy-efficient lighting?

(2) If so, which schools?Answer—(1) No.(2) n⁄a.

*7596 POLICE REPORTING OF VIOLENCE—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) Are claims made in an article (Sun-Herald 24 August 2009) "violence censored by police to make us feel safe" correct?

(2) Are decisions made in relation to, for example, rioting or other civil disobedience, deliberately watered down so that alarm is not spread in local communities?

Answer—






The NSW Police Force has advised me:(1) No. (2) No.

*7597 RURAL SCHOOL FUNDING—Mr Kevin Humphries asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) Why have a number of rural central schools in NSW had their funding withdrawn for both science and language unit facilities?

(2) What input did your department have in this decision making process?(3) Will this funding be restored in future rounds for federal funding?Answer—(1) to (3) No schools in NSW had their funding withdrawn for science and language facilities. The

Commonwealth Government has announced $213 million worth of investment in 159 NSW high schools for science and language labs. Of this investment $28.5 million will go into 43 government schools in regional NSW. The Commonwealth Government chose not to proceed with a supplementary round of funding for science and language centres.Responsibility for determining which schools received new or upgraded science laboratories under the Commonwealth Government's Building the Education Revolution program lies with the Commonwealth Government. On 3 June 2009 the Department of Education and Training's Building the Education Revolution Integrated Program Office submitted 200 applications to the Commonwealth Government for Science and Language Centres, categorised into the three priority groups (High 25%, Medium 50%, and Low 25%), as per Commonwealth Government guidelines.The NSW Department of Education and Training prepared its submission in consultation with the NSW Federation of Parents and Citizens Associations, the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group, the NSW Teachers Federation and the NSW Secondary Principals Council. This group, together with the Department, formed an Assessment panel which considered the applications of secondary schools from around the State. The Department delegated authority to the Assessment Panel to review all applications and the qualitative evidence presented and decide on final priority and ranking of all applications. These 200 applications came from the most disadvantaged schools in NSW, in line with the Commonwealth Government's criteria.

*7598 CHARGES FOR BLOOD PRODUCTS—Mr Kevin Humphries asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

Are there any proposals to charge any sector of the health system (private or public) for blood products donated by the public?Answer—I am advised:Since 2004, the costs associated with collection, processing, manufacture and distribution of blood and blood products used by public facilities have been met by Area Health Services, rather than from a central pool of funds. The initiative has seen improved transfusion medicine clinical practices and patient safety; reductions in wastage; and more effective use of health resources.The proposal to introduce charges to the private health sector for the administrative and processing costs associated with the provision of blood and products derived from whole blood by the Australian Red Cross Blood Service are not for the blood itself. NSW Health's Chief Health Officer is leading discussion with the Australian Red Cross Blood Service, private pathology and hospital stakeholders regarding this matter.

*7599 ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE—Mr Kevin Humphries asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Why did the NSW Government not respond to the 2007 Federal Government offer to underpin the Royal Flying Doctor Service through assisted purchase of aircraft and inter-hospital transfers, when South Australia, West Australia and Queensland took up the offer?






(2) Why does the NSW Government reject the continued advice that supports a federal approach to fixed wing aeromedical retrieval?

(3) Would take-up of the offer have realised approximately $50 million in savings to the NSW taxpayer?Answer—(1) to (3) NSW Health already has funding arrangements in place with the Royal Flying Doctor Service

(RFDS) to provide Inter-Hospital Transport. Notwithstanding this, negotiations with the Commonwealth and RFDS (South Eastern Section) continue with the aim of improving the clarity of service costs and associated jurisdictional responsibilities.Recently the RFDS (South Eastern Section) agreed to release details of its costs and flying activity to NSW Health to enable progression of discussions.

*7600 SPECIAL NEEDS TEACHERS—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

What was the total number of special needs teachers in the Cronulla electorate in the following years:(a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) 2009?

Answer—In NSW Government schools in the Cronulla Electorate there were 11.3 full-time equivalent special needs teachers in 2007, 2008 and 2009.

*7601 SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

What is the total number of special needs students in the Cronulla electorate?Answer—There are 139 students with disabilities enrolled in government schools in the Cronulla electorate.Eighty-one students with disabilities are supported in regular classes by the Department of Education and Training's Integration, Funding Support Program and 58 students with disabilities are enrolled in support classes.

*7602 WOMEN'S HEALTH NURSE IN WAGGA WAGGA—Mr Daryl Maguire asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What steps have been taken to fill the Women's Health Nurse position in Wagga Wagga that has been vacant since March 2009?

(2) Why has the Greater Southern Area Health Service not recruited somebody for this role?(3) What is the current status of this position?Answer—(1) to (3) Greater Southern Area Health Service undertook active recruitment for a part time Women's

Health Nurse position in March 2009. There were no suitable applicants.Since the initiation of Women's Health Nurses in the public sector, a number of reforms have seen the introduction of Women's Health Nurses and Practice Nurses in General Practice. These Nurses are able to perform Pap tests and advise of Women's Health issues.Using current staff levels, Wagga Women's Health Service is prioritising services to reach women who do not access traditional services. The service complements Women's Health Services provided by General Practitioners and their Practice Nurses in numerous practices in Wagga Wagga.

*7604 TUMUT TOWN BRIDGE—Mr Daryl Maguire asked the Minister for Roads—

(1) Is the Tumut Town Bridge (which is currently closed) a priority for funding in the Timber Bridges Partnership Program?

(2) What position on the priority list is the bridge?(3) How long has the bridge been on the list?(4) How much funding is available for distribution in the Timber Bridges Partnership Program?Answer—






I am advised:(1) to (3) Tumut Town Bridge is a local council owned structure on a local road. It is therefore not eligible for funding under the Timber Bridges Partnership Program as this program is only for bridges on Regional Roads.(4) The $60 million Timber Bridges Partnership Program, which finishes in June 2010 is fully committed. There is no further funding available under this program.

*7605 WILLIAM CAREY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL BUS—Dr Andrew McDonald asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) Are there any plans for a dedicated school bus to⁄from the William Carey Christian School, Prestons from the Chipping Norton area?

(2) (a) Have there been any costings for such a bus?(b) If not, is there an approximate cost for such a service?

(3) Has the option for a shared bus or buses with other schools (such as All Saints Senior College, Casula) been examined?

(4) What funding options are available for assistance for schools such as William Carey Christian School to finance their own buses?

Answer—I am advised that the NSW Transport and Infrastructure service planning guidelines require that dedicated school services be kept to a minimum where sufficient regular route services are available or existing route services connect with other bus or rail services. I am further advised that differences in school start and finish times, and the potential inconvenience to students already travelling on other school bus services, makes diversion of such services unviable. I understand that students residing in Chipping Norton are able to catch Veolia Transport regular passenger services to Liverpool Station where they are able to access services direct to the school.

*7606 DIESEL MOTOR VEHICLES—Mr Wayne Merton asked the Minister for Roads—

How many new diesel motor vehicles were registered in NSW during the years 2004 to 2008, inclusive?Answer—I am advised:

Year Number of vehicles2004 27,5472005 33,8012006 37,7612007 49,9492008 58,112

*7607 PETROL/ELECTRIC HYBRID CARS—Mr Wayne Merton asked the Minister for Roads—

How many petrol⁄electric hybrid cars were first registered in NSW in each year, between 2005-2008, inclusive?Answer—I am advised:

Year Number of vehicles2005 2392006 4212007 6532008 1,062

*7608 INFRINGEMENT NOTICES—Mr Wayne Merton asked the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

(1) How many infringement notices have been issued for offences relating to the red light camera at the intersection of Windsor Road and Old Northern Road, Baulkham Hills during the following periods: (a) January to December 2006;






(b) January to December 2007;(c) January to December 2008;(d) January to 30 June 2009 inclusive?

(2) What is the amount payable for the fines in respect of each of the above years?Answer—I'm advised:The following table provides the total number and face value of infringement notices issued in relation to the red light camera at the intersection of Windsor Road and Old Northern Road, Baulkham Hills for the requested periods.

Year Number of fines Face valueJanuary to December 2006 0 0January to December 2007 2,110 $663,680January to December 2008 1,245 $399,288January to 30 June 2009 (incl.) 0 0

*7609 TRANSPORT PRIORITIES FOR THE HUNTER—Mr Matthew Morris asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) Does the Minister agree that multi millions of dollars should be spent on propping up Newcastle CBD at the expense of the rest of the Hunter?

(2) Is the Minister aware of the tram⁄train proposal, put together by members of the business community in Newcastle?

(3) What is the Government's transport priority for the Hunter?(4) What did the Minister learn from his trip to Cardiff Station recently?Answer—(1) to (4) On 26 May 2009, the NSW Government released the Newcastle City Centre Renewal Report for public consultation. The report canvasses the option of terminating the Newcastle rail line at Wickham, in conjunction with a number of key projects to revitalise the Newcastle CBD, as follows:

• the relocation of the University of Newcastle's law, business and arts faculties into the City; • the relocation of State and Federal Justice facilities; and • the establishment of a new public domain that provides greater connections to the harbour and

beaches. An independent community survey commissioned by Government, together with public submissions on the Renewal Report, revealed considerable community support for revitalisation of the Newcastle City Centre and the removal of the heavy rail line in Newcastle.On 4 September 2009, the Premier announced that the Government would allocate Crown Land at Honeysuckle for Stage 1 of the University of Newcastle's inner city campus.The Premier also announced that Government would undertake a detailed scoping study of transport arrangements to inform the revitalisation of the Newcastle City Centre.In addition, $500,000 was allocated to a detailed investigation of modifying heavy diesel carriages for use as light rail on the Newcastle line, and electrification of the rail line to Warabrook, close to Newcastle University. This investigation found operation of modified diesel cars as light rail was not feasible.

*7610 NEWCASTLE RAIL SERVICES—Mr Matthew Morris asked the Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Hunter, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Has the Minister surveyed her own electorate on the removal of the Newcastle rail line?(2) Does the Minister agree with the comment of the Member for Swansea that retail down-turn is due to

the rail service?(3) Is the Minister aware that the Hunter Business Chamber has always advocated Glendale Interchange

as the top priority transport issue for the Hunter?(4) Is the Minister aware that the Hunter Business Chamber now also has called for the upgrade of

Cardiff Station?(5) Does the Minister support the removal of rail services into Newcastle CBD?Answer—I am advised:






There are several contributing factors to the decline of retail in Newcastle's CBD. The Hunter Development Corporation's City Centre Renewal report outlines a number of catalyst projects that have the potential to regenerate the inner-city.On 6 August 2009 the Hunter Valley Research Foundation released the results of their survey of public opinion relating to the recommendations outlined in the Hunter Development Corporation's City Centre Renewal Report.The independent survey sampled the views of 507 residents from the five local government areas of Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Cessnock and Port Stephens.I recognise the need for improved transport connections within the Newcastle CBD. That is why the NSW Government is conducting a scoping study of transport arrangements to support the revitalisation of Newcastle's city centre.The redevelopment of Newcastle and the Glendale Interchange are both priority transport projects for the Hunter region. Each project has the support of local councils, the community and our business leaders.

*7611 MINISTERIAL VISITS TO NSW TAFE INSTITUTIONS—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

In relation to ministerial visits to NSW TAFE institutions:With reference to the NSW TAFE colleges that have been visited by the Minister since 8 October 2008, would the Minister please provide the following information:

(a) name of TAFE institution;(b) date of visit;(c) reason for visit?

Answer—Date Institution Reason18-Sep-08 Chullora TAFE Visit10-Nov-08 Ultimo TAFE Celebrations for "Tasting Success"

program28-Nov-08 Ultimo TAFE Address staff8-Dec-08 Gymea TAFE Inspect progress on Sutherland Trade

School9-Feb-09 Shellharbour TAFE Officially open Shellharbour Trade

School20-Feb-09 Wollongong TAFE Visit26-Feb-09 Bathurst TAFE Visit26-Mar-09 Ultimo TAFE Discuss Apprentice Matching

Program20-May-09 Bankstown TAFE Official Opening - TAFE campus

upgrade27-May-09 Cooma TAFE Visit9-Jul-09 Meadowbank TAFE Discuss Compact with Retrenched

Workers and meet with students18-Aug-09 Dubbo TAFE Discuss Aboriginal participation in

TAFE training with Aboriginal staff27-Aug-09 Ultimo TAFE Official Opening - Upgrade of

Marcus Clarke Building

*7612 MENTAL HEALTH FACILITY—GRIFFITH BASE HOSPITAL—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

In relation to the proposed Mental Health Facility at Griffith Base Hospital:Noting that in February 2008 the then Minister for Health announced in Griffith that a $3.9 million 20-bed mental health facility would be built at Griffith Base Hospital, with construction to start in mid-2009:(1) Given that it is now mid-2009, will construction commence on time?(2) If not, when is construction now anticipated to start?






(3) Why has the project been delayed?(4) Have tenders been announced for this project?(5) If yes to (4), what company(s) has been awarded the tender for the project?(6) What is the current updated cost for the construction of this project?Answer—(1) to (6) All capital works proposals are subjected to careful analysis and evaluation and an objective

prioritisation process. There are requests for a very large number of projects across the State and, each year, difficult choices have to be made about which projects are undertaken within the available budget. For this reason it is not possible to give a timeframe for a Griffith Mental Health facility or any future works beyond the planning phase.Construction can only commence once funding has been approved. Funding is announced annually as part of the State Budget.

*7613 HARD-TO-STAFF SCHOOLS—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

In relation to hard-to-staff schools:(1) How many NSW public schools are classified⁄listed as hard-to-staff schools?(2) What is the total amount of annual funding provided by the Commonwealth Government to the NSW

Government⁄Department of Education and Training for staffing improvements for hard-to-staff schools and what is the length of time of the program that the funding is provided for NSW?

(3) (a) How does the DET distribute this funding across the schools in (1)? (b) Is it based on their 8-transfer point, 6-transfer point or 4-transfer point (incentive) ranking?

Answer—(1) The NSW Department of Education and Training provides a range of incentive benefits to attract and

retain teachers to rural and remote locations. Teachers appointed to schools that attract eight or six transfer points, and some four point schools classified as remote, receive incentive benefits.In 2009 there are 34 eight point, 74 six point and 54 four point incentive schools eligible for incentive benefits.

(2) and (3) There is no specific Commonwealth program for staffing improvements for hard-to-staff schools.

*7614 EMISSIONS OF RESPIRABLE SILICA—Mr Greg Piper asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

How will a standard for emissions of respirable silica be applied to future development applications for extractive industries?Answer—Each application will be assessed on its individual merits, with silica emissions considered against the relevant scientific criteria and the circumstances of the project.I understand the current accepted criteria for crystalline silica is 3 micrograms per cubic metre of air.

*7615 IMPACTS OF PM2.5 DUST—Mr Greg Piper asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What are the health impacts of PM2.5 dust and what is the relevant air quality standard?(2) What plans exist to revise this air quality standard?Answer—I am advised:(1) Increasing levels of PM2.5 have been associated with increased respiratory and cardiovascular

morbidity and mortality. In Australia the National Environment Protection Council has developed two advisory reporting standards for particulate matter less than 2.5 microns in diameter (PM2.5). These advisory reporting standards are contained in the National Environment Protection Measure for Ambient Air Quality (Ambient Air Quality NEPM).

(2) The National Environment Protection Council is currently reviewing the Air NEPM, including the






PM2.5 standards.

*7616 CHILD-SIZED TOILET—DISABLED CHILDREN—Mr Greg Piper asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

Is a child-sized disabled toilet provided for children in the Special Education classroom at Budgewoi Public School?If not why not?Answer—I am advised that the toilet in the classroom is a standard size and complies with the Department of Education and Training's School Facilities Standards. Support is provided to students with special needs, where required, to use a standard size toilet.

*7617 FUNDING OF PRESCHOOLS—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Community Services—

In relation to funding of preschools in the Tweed electorate:(1) Will there be an increase in funding to provide additional places in preschools in the Tweed

electorate?(2) Will there be additional funding directed towards lowering preschool education fees?

(a) If yes, what amount does the Government intend to commit and in what timeframe?(b) If no, why not?

(3) What is the total amount of funding provided for preschools in the Tweed electorate for the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

Answer—(1) Through the Preschool Investment and Reform Plan's (PIRP) Growth Phase an increase of 109

additional places in preschools in the Tweed Electorate has been recommended.(2) (a) In 2009-10 funding of $1,285,678 will be paid to 12 preschools in the Tweed Electorate under the

Children's Services Program. This is an increase of $429,293 on the funding level for 2008⁄09. The funding has been invested to improve access and affordability of preschool services as part of the COAG National Partnership Agreement on Early Childhood Education. The Partnership Agreement provides $278.6 million over five years to NSW to achieve universal access to early childhood education in the year before school by 2013 and to improve the quality of that education. The preschool funding model provides higher per child funding for children from low income and Indigenous families. This funding should be used towards reducing the fees for children from these backgrounds.It is not known at this point in time how much of this will be delivered to services within the Tweed Electorate each year for the next five years as the Preschool Funding Model is driven by the number of children who receive a service rather than the number of licensed places available in the service. Each year, funding will be recalculated under a Resource Allocation Model and services may receive increases, however future funding will not be reduced below 2007-08 levels. (b) Not applicable.

(3) The total amount of funding provided for preschools in the Tweed electorate for the following financial years: (a) 2007-08: $841,558 (b) 2008-09: $856,385 (c) 2009-10: $1,285,678

*7618 ALLEGED CHILD ABUSE CASES—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Community Services—

In relation to the Department of Community Services in the Tweed:(1) What are the number of calls made from the area under control of the Tweed Community Service

Centre regarding alleged child abuse in the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) 2009?

(2) What number of these calls were investigated in the following years: (a) 2007;






(b) 2008;(c) 2009?

(3) What are the number of DoCs workers and the number of foster families located in the Tweed electorate?

(4) What number of children were removed from their families⁄homes over the last 12 months?Answer—(1) Community Services receives contacts for child protection reasons, as well as for other non-child

protection reasons, such as to give information or make a request for assistance. Reports are referred to a Community Services Centre when there may be child protection concerns which require further assessment.The number of reports referred to the Tweed Heads Community Services Centre was: (a) 2005-06 - 1,989 (b) 2006-07 - 2,339 (c) 2007-08 - 2,399

(2) Of the reports referred to the Tweed Heads Community Services Centre, the number of reports for which a further Stage 1 or Stage 2 secondary assessment was recorded in the Key Information Directory System (KiDS) was: (a) 2005-06 - 1,669 (b) 2006-07 - 2,289 (c) 2007-08 - 2,362

(3) There are currently 46 Community Services employees in the Tweed Electorate. There are currently 68 foster families supervised by the Tweed Heads Community Services Centres.

(4) During 2007-08, 58 children and young people entered out-of-home care in the Tweed Heads Community Services Centre area.

*7619 BED NUMBERS—TWEED HOSPITAL—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

In relation to total number of available beds in the Tweed Hospital:What is the total number of available beds in all sections of the Tweed Hospital in the following years:

(a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

Answer—I am advised:

(a) to (c) On average there were 211 available beds at the Tweed Hospital in June 2007; 212 in June 2008; and 230 in June 2009. These statistics do not include beds in the Emergency Department, Delivery Suites, Operating Theatres and Recovery Rooms.

*7620 GREAT WESTERN HIGHWAY AT BLACKHEATH—Mr Michael Richardson asked the Minister for Roads—

(1) Will Blackheath residents still be able to park on the highway at Blackheath after the Great Western Highway is upgraded?

(2) Does the Government plan to ban parking on the highway at Blackheath so that it can achieve more traffic lanes while not increasing the width of the roadway?

Answer—I am advised:(1) Yes.(2) The RTA is currently considering a request from Council to develop a Blackheath Highway

Management Plan, including consideration of parking issues

*7621 GATEWAY PLANNING PROCESS—Mr Michael Richardson asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) What are the key steps in the process of rezoning a piece of land under the Government's new






''Gateway'' planning process?(2) Why was the Minister not able to answer this question in person at the Property Council of Australia

breakfast in August?Answer—(1) The first step in creating a new LEP is the preparation of a Planning Proposal. A Planning Proposal

is a document that explains the intended effect of the proposed LEP and also sets out the justification for making the proposed LEP.A Gateway determination is issued by the Minister for Planning (or delegate) and specifies whether a Planning Proposal is to proceed and, if so, in what circumstances.The purpose of the Gateway determination is to ensure there is sufficient justification early in the process to proceed with the Planning Proposal. The Gateway determination is a checkpoint for Planning Proposals before significant resources are committed. It enables Planning Proposals that are not credible to be stopped early in the plan making process.

(2) The Minister and the Director General of Planning both addressed questions about the Gateway process at the function indicated.

*7622 BRUSH TURKEY NESTING MOUND—Mr Michael Richardson asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) Are staff at the Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park relying on a brush turkey to clear half of the fire control line around head office buildings in the park?

(2) Is the turkey's 2-metre high, 3-metre wide nesting mound a fire hazard in itself?Answer—(1) No.(2) No.

*7623 NURSES ACCEPTING REDUNDANCIES—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) How many nurses have accepted redundancies at Nepean Hospital since January 2009?(2) How many of those who accepted redundancy packages are Registered Nurses?(3) How many are Enrolled Nurses?(4) How many are Assistants in Nursing?Answer—(1) to (4) I am advised that total nursing numbers at Nepean Hospital are higher in 2009 than in 2008.

On 21 September 2009 the Director-General of NSW Health issued a directive to Chief Executives of Health Services reaffirming that clinical staff (except in cases where they may be occupying management or administrative positions) are not to be offered voluntary redundancy.

*7624 ELECTIVE SURGERY WAITING LISTS—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

How many people are listed on NSW public hospital elective surgery waiting lists for the quarter April to June 2009?Answer—I refer the Member to my response to Question No. 7550 in the Legislative Assembly.

*7625 AMBULANCE STATION CLOSURES—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

How many ambulance stations have been closed across NSW since January 2009?Answer—There are currently thirteen NSW state-owned ambulance stations that are vacant and unoccupied. Action






is currently proceeding for their disposal. All vacated stations are operational at new or alternative sites and no stations have closed.

*7626 RESURFACING OF PACIFIC HIGHWAY—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Roads—

In relation to the Pacific Highway between Blackmans Point and Cairncross on the Mid North Coast:(1) When was work to resurface the highway in 2007-08 commenced and completed?(2) What was the cost of the work?(3) By whom was the work undertaken?Answer—I am advised that resurfacing work was started in this location in November 2006 and completed in April 2007 as part of pavement rehabilitation works. I am further advised that the resurfacing component of the works in 2006-07 cost $797,000 and the work was undertaken by the Roads and Traffic Authority's Road and Fleet Services based in Port Macquarie.

*7627 “SALTWATER” DEVELOPMENT—SOUTH WEST ROCKS—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

Regarding the "Saltwater" development at South West Rocks:(1) While the SEPP 46 assessment was proceeding for the above site to be cleared of native vegetation

in order to establish a tea-tree plantation, did the developer commission agents to prepare an application for residential re-zoning which was lodged with Kempsey Shire Council within one week of receiving permission to clear for the plantation?

(2) Was this a misuse of SEPP 46 given it is now a multi-million dollar residential development project?Answer—(1) I have no knowledge of when the application for rezoning was prepared. (2) SEPP 46 was administered by the then Department of Land and Water Conservation, which was not

within the Planning Portfolio.

*7628 NSW DEFENCE ADVISER—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

In relation to the newly appointed NSW Defence Adviser:(1) What is the total cost to the NSW Government for the NSW Defence Industry Advisor's

remuneration package including additional features such as vehicle provision, fuel allowance, bonuses, staffing allowances?

(2) What are the termination payments (if any)?(3) What is the period of appointment?(4) Out of which office will the NSW Defence Industry Advisor work from and indicate the address?(5) (a) Was this position advertised?

(b) If yes, in what publications (indicate the medium) and on what date(s)?(6) Was Mr Blackburn AO an applicant to this position?(7) How many other applications (written or otherwise) were received for this position?(8) (a) Was an executive search firm appointed?

(b) If so: (i) Which firm;(ii) What were the terms of reference given to that firm; (iii) What was the arrangement for remuneration of that firm?

Answer—Consultants are only engaged when the required professional expertise is not available internally or cannot be provided in a more cost effective way. The Defence Industry Advisor, (former Air Vice Marshall) John Blackburn AO, the previous Deputy Head of the RAAF, has been engaged for a period of 12 months and in accordance with the guidelines. Details of consultancy expenditure over $30,000 are reported in agency annual reports. There are no termination payments.The NSW Defence Industry Advisor works out of the offices of Industry & Investment NSW, MLC Centre, 19 Martin Place, Sydney.

*7629 HARWOOD BRIDGE PAINTING—Mr John Turner asked the Minister for Roads—

With respect to the Minister's advice regarding the cost of painting the Harwood Bridge, that because the






project was funded in its entirety it is difficult to assess exact cost of painting the bridge (Question 6815):(1) In the accounting system does the RTA not have a breakdown for major works such as painting, as

against maintenance, as against capital works and the like?(2) If not, why not?(3) If so, will the Minister ask the RTA to provide the specific costs of painting the Harwood Bridge?(4) If not, why not?Answer—I am advised:The RTA's accounting system does provide a breakdown of works, as against maintenance and capital works.The cost of repainting the Harwood Bridge was $8.5 million, which was fully funded by the NSW Government.

*7630 HEAT PUMPS—Mr John Turner asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

(1) Is the Minister aware of incentives such as rebates and the like that are available to encourage people to purchase domestic heat pumps to supply hot water to homes?

(2) If so, is this the part of the Government policy to encourage investment in environmentally friendly technology to limit carbon emissions and reduce the greenhouse gas effects?

(3) Are current hot water services (as against heat pumps) usually connected to off-peak electricity supplies?

(4) If so, does this reduce the amount of electricity needed to heat the hot water systems (as against heat pumps)?

(5) Has Country Energy instructed installers of domestic heat pumps to wire the pumps to continuous electricity supply rather than off-peak electricity supply?

(6) If so, why?(7) If so, how much extra electricity on average would be used by wiring a heat pump to continuous

electricity supply rather than off-peak electricity supply?(8) If there is extra electricity used, would this contribute to more carbon and greenhouse gas emissions?(9) If so, how does Country Energy justify the instruction to wire heat pumps to continuous electricity

supply?(10) If so, will the Minister, for the sake of the environment, instruct Country Energy to issue

instructions that heat pumps should be connected to off peak electricity supplies?(11) If not, why not?Answer—I am advised:(1) I am pleased to advise that the NSW Government's Climate Change Fund Residential Rebate

Program provides up to $1200 for replacement of a conventional hot water system with a solar or heat pump hot water system that is eligible for at least 20 Renewable Energy Certificates, or RECs, under the Mandatory Renewable Energy Target (MRET). I can also advise that the Australian Government offers eligible home-owners, landlords or tenants a rebate of $1600 to install a solar hot water system, or $1000 to install a heat pump hot water system as part of its Energy Efficient Homes Package, which came into effect on 3 February 2009.

(2) Yes.(3) A survey report in an Australian Bureau of Statisticspublication released on 28 November 2008

indicates that, of the NSW households surveyed that knew the source of energy used to heat their water supply, 58 per cent used electricity. Of these, 19 per cent were connected to continuous electricity supply and 81 per cent were connected to off-peak supply.

(4) The amount of electricity used by a conventional system is not reduced by using off-peak electricity. This only reduces the cost of the electricity used. The amount of greenhouse gases remains roughly the same.I am advised that heat pump systems have a heating efficiency of about 250 per cent (depending on the model and climate) and use only about 40 per cent of the input electricity used by a conventional electric storage water heater system.

(5) Country Energy informs me that it does not "instruct" customers installing heat pump systems to connect them to either continuous supply or off-peak.






The decision on which electricity supply to connect hot water services to should be made by each customer according to their needs, the type, size and location of the system, average ambient temperatures and the manufacturer's recommendations.

(6) N⁄A.(7) N⁄A.(8) This would depend on the source of electricity generation.(9) N⁄A.(10) N⁄A.(11) N⁄A.


*7631 INSULATION MANUFACTURING PLANT—Mr Richard Amery asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

(1) Has the Government received an application by the German company Knauf to build an insulation manufacturing plant in the Hunter⁄Newcastle area?

(2) Has this Government granted any tax or investment subsidies to this company to establish an operation in New South Wales?

(3) When considering any such benefit, will the Government take into account any unfair benefit to one competitor over established firms in this State?

Answer—(1) I am advised the NSW Department of Planning is currently assessing the Knauf application to build

an Insulation manufacturing plant in Newcastle. (2) Government assistance to footloose businesses within Australia and overseas companies generally

involves assistance with planning issues, interaction with other Government Departments and guidance on supply chain issues. Any financial assistance offered to potential investors is treated as strictly

(3) When considering any benefit, the Government has to balance and consider a range of factors such as the potential of the business to locate in alternative locations outside NSW, the projected amount of investment and the number of permanent jobs being created in the NSW economy to achieve the best outcome for NSW.

*7632 ALBURY WODONGA NATIONAL HIGHWAY PROJECT (AWNHP)—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Minister for Roads—

(1) When will the Environmental Impact Report for the AWNHP be completed and available to Albury City Council in accordance with Condition 15?

(2) When will the RTA complete a full traffic count of the AWNHP and surrounding streets in Albury and provide the results to Albury City Council?

(3) Why were these traffic counts not conducted in accordance with the Government's own conditions?Answer—I am advised:(1) The Environmental Impact Report has been prepared and forwarded to the Department of Planning,

relevant agencies and Albury City Council for comment. Once comments have been received and considered, the report will be finalised.

(2) The traffic counts associated with the Albury Wodonga National Highway Project (AWNHP) were finalised in September 2009. Once the data is extracted, the traffic information will be discussed with Albury City Council which is expected to occur by December 2009.

(3) The RTA has worked collaboratively with the Department of Planning (DoP) to satisfy its requirements for traffic count information. The final set of traffic surveys - performed on local roads within Albury and in accordance with DoP requirements - were conducted in August and September. The results of these surveys will be incorporated into the final report to Albury City Council (see (2) above).

*7633 SCHOOL RESIDENCES—ALBURY ELECTORATE—Mr Greg Aplin asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—






(1) Which public schools in the Albury electorate have residences on or adjacent to school property?(2) Is the Department of Education and Training considering the sale or removal of any of these public

school residences?(3) What is the status of any proposed disposals?Answer—(1) There are school residences located on or adjacent to the following schools in the Albury electorate:

Balldale Public School, Brockelsby Public School, Corowa South Public School, Holbrook Public School, Khankoban Public School, Rosewood Public School, Savernake Public School and Walbundrie Public School.

(2) A recent review recommended the removal of disused teacher residences at Holbrook Public School, Savernake Public School and Walbundrie Public School.

(3) The residence at Holbrook Public School has been tendered for removal whilst no decision has been made on the remaining residences identified on the disposal program, which will involve further consultation with the school community.

*7636 ATTENDANCE AT RELEVANT CORONIAL INQUIRY—Mr Mike Baird asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Are the responsible authorities obliged to notify and⁄or invite persons⁄organisations of interest to attend a relevant Coronial Inquiry?

(2) If the responsible authorities fail to notify and⁄or invite such persons or organisations to attend the relevant Coronial Inquiry, do they have a right to receive a copy of the relevant Coroner's Report and the transcript?

Answer—I am advised:(1) Any person or organisation that has provided written notification to the coroner of their interest in a

matter will be provided with particulars of the time and date of the inquest or inquiry. The coroner makes a determination as to whether they have sufficient interest in the matter to be granted leave to appear in the proceedings.

(2) Parties who have not attended a particular coronial inquest or inquiry may make a written application to the coroner to obtain a copy of the coroner's findings and transcripts of proceedings. The coroner will make a determination on access.

*7638 VERTICAL GRILLS SAFTY RISK—Mr Mike Baird asked the Minister for Roads—

(1) Is the Minister concerned about the safety risk caused by the old vertical grills on roads, especially to cyclists?

(2) Is the Minister aware of any accidents that have occurred of this nature?(3) What was the location of these accidents?(4) When will the grills on Northern Beaches roads be upgraded to the safer horizontal grills?Answer—(1) The NSW Government is concerned about all crashes and safety risks on NSW roads. The RTA is actively working to reduce the number and severity of crashes across the road network.(2) and (3) No.(4) I am advised replacement grates are normally installed in conjunction with pavement rehabilitation or resurfacing works. The RTA is currently negotiating with a contractor for the Northern Beaches area to replace grates as part of a contract.

*7639 RAIL OPERATIONS BETWEEN COWRA AND DEMONDRILLE—Mr Mike Baird asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) Will the Minister confirm that rail operations between Cowra and Demondrille have been suspended?

(2) If yes, were they suspended because of safety concerns?(3) Will the Minister confirm there has not been adequate investment in track infrastructure in this

region?Answer—I am advised that on 1 September 2009 services on the Cowra - Demondrille line were suspended on safety grounds.






*7640 NORTHERN BEACHES COMMUNITY SERVICE—Mr Mike Baird asked the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

(1) What funding did the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care allocate to the Northern Beaches Community Service for its volunteer service in 2007-08 and 2008-09?

(2) Were the full amounts provided each year?(3) If not, why not?Answer—(1) to (3) In 2007-08 Ageing, Disability and Home Care (ADHC) provided funding of $60,521 (ex GST)

to Northern Beaches Community Services for its volunteer services. In 2008-09 ADHC provided funding of $68,400 (ex GST) for the same service.

*7641 MISSING PERSONS—Mr Craig Baumann asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

In relation to missing persons within the Port Stephens electorate:(1) How many persons are currently listed as a Missing Person with the NSW Police force in the Port

Stephens electorate?(2) How many are:

(a) under 18 years of age;(b) over 18 years of age;(c) suffering from any form of mental illness?

Answer—The NSW Police Force has advised me:(1) Four. (2) (a) None.

(b) Four.(c) None.

*7642 LOCUM DOCTORS—TOMAREE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL—Mr Craig Baumann asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

Given your advice regarding the tender process for the provision of medical practitioner services to Tomaree Community Hospital (Question 6914):(1) Has the Government finalised the tender process?(2) If so:

(a) What is the total amount spent by the Hunter New England Area Health Service⁄NSW Health⁄NSW Government on the provision of locum doctors at Tomaree Community Hospital in the 2008-09 financial year?

(b) How many locum doctors were employed by the Hunter New England Area Health Service⁄NSW Health⁄NSW Government at Tomaree Community Hospital during the 2008-09 financial year?

(c) What is the total amount spent by the Hunter New England Area Health Service⁄NSW Health⁄NSW Government on the provision of local doctors at Tomaree Community Hospital in the 2008-09 financial year, either under the Rural Doctors Fee, Visiting Medical Officers or otherwise?

Answer—(1) and (2) I am advised by the Hunter New England Area Health Service that the tender process has not

been finalised. An offer has been made to the successful tenderer, however, the contract has yet to be signed.

*7643 FORMER STEELWORKS SITE—MAYFIELD—Mr Craig Baumann asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) When the Government ordered BHP Billiton to carry out remediation works on its former steelworks site at Mayfield, what was the estimated cost of the remediation works?

(2) Did the Government receive money from BHP Billiton with regards to the remediation works?






(3) If so: (a) How much was given to the Government by BHP Billiton?(b) Has all that money been expended?

(4) If not, how and when will it be expended into the future?(5) Is any part of the $15 million allocated by the NSW Government in the 2009-10 State Budget

allocated to the remediation at the Intertrade Industrial Park on former BHP steelworks site at Mayfield funded by BHP Billiton?

Answer—These questions fall within the portfolio of the Minister for the Hunter.

*7644 AGED CARE PROVIDERS—REIMBURSEMENT OF COSTS—Mr Steve Cansdell asked the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

As the Clarence Valley local government area was declared a natural disaster area following major flooding in May 2009 and on 22 May the SES issued evacuation orders for residents of some of the aged care facilities in the Clarence Valley:(1) Is the NSW Government aware of the enormous cost burden placed on aged care providers, many of

whom are of charitable status, when such evacuation orders are put in place?(2) Why are claims by aged care providers for reimbursement of costs associated with the evacuation of

residents (i.e. cost of alternative accommodation, cost of additional wages, transportation to alternative accommodation) being refused, despite identical claims being approved following the 2001 floods?

(3) Will the NSW Government reimburse those aged care providers for these unexpected costs?Answer—Evacuation orders are issued to ensure the safety of communities and to minimise the loss of life from natural disaster events.I am advised the NSW Government natural disaster relief and recovery arrangements are consistent with the framework set by the Australian Government. Under the arrangements, voluntary non-profit organisations may be eligible for loan assistance to restore essential facilities damaged or destroyed by a natural disaster.The natural disaster relief and recovery arrangements do not provide for compensation for the cost of evacuation, for householders, commercial businesses or non-profit organisations.

*7645 CHILD PSYCHOLOGY POSITIONS—Mr Steve Cansdell asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

As two full-time child psychology positions at Grafton Base Hospital have been vacant for some 12 months, leaving a gap in child psychologist services in Grafton:(1) Has the NSW Government any intention of filling the positions of child psychologist and child and

family psychologist at Grafton Base Hospital?(2) Why are these two positions not advertised in the employment section of the North Coast Area

Health Services' website?(3) Has advice on these psychology positions been received from NCAHS' new recruitment entity,

Health Support Services (HSS)?(4) If so, what is their advice?(5) If not, what is the timeframe given to HSS for delivery of such advice?Answer—(1) to (5) No Child Psychologist and Child and Family Counsellor positions in Grafton have been cut. A

Child Psychologist position at Grafton was advertised in late 2008 with no suitable applicants attracted. This vacant position is backfilled on a part-time basis to ensure urgent clients receive services. The North Coast Area Health Service intends to review the structure of its Community Health Services, prior to filling vacant positions. As an interim measure, Area Health Service Management






will work with Coffs⁄Clarence Network Management to ensure that an equitable provision of services between Coffs Harbour and the Clarence is provided. The Coffs⁄Clarence Network (which includes Grafton) has 3.5 Full Time Equivalent Child and Family Counsellor positions, which are filled.

*7646 BETTER SERVICES AND VALUE TASKFORCE—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

In relation to the Better Services and Value taskforce:Given your advice on the composition of the Taskforce and that it will meet on a monthly basis (Question 6931):(1) Who is the independent member appointed from the private sector?(2) Has the taskforce met?(3) If so, when and where were the taskforce meetings held and what was discussed?Answer—The Taskforce met in September 2009 in NSW Treasury offices and discussed a range of matters, including the terms of reference of the Taskforce, performance efficiency issues and agency amalgamations. A process is underway to select an independent member.

*7647 WHISTLEBLOWER PROTECTION—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

In relation to whistleblower protection:In each of the years 2006-07, 2007-08, 2008-09 how many public sector employees in NSW sought or were offered protection under the Protected Disclosures Act?Answer—The collection and reporting of statistics about protected disclosures is one of the issues being considered by the current inquiry by the Committee on the Independent Commission Against Corruption into the effectiveness of current laws, practices and procedures in protecting public sector whistleblowers. As the Premier has previously advised the Committee, the Government will carefully consider any recommendations for reform in the Committee's final report.

*7648 SCHOOL LEAGUE TABLES—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

In relation to school league tables:Will the Premier support and negotiate a voluntary code of conduct for NSW newspapers to ensure simplistic league tables of school performance data are not published?Answer—The Government's approach to reporting school results aims to ensure that parents in New South Wales have access to detailed information about how their child's school is performing. Information will be used to drive continued improvement in school performance and to target additional resources to the schools. It will also support the Government's commitment to working with school communities to target resources and programs, and using data on student performance as a diagnostic tool to inform teachers and drive better results for our students. Protections remain in place in NSW that have been developed to prevent simplistic rankings that are not in the public interest.

*7649 DET FUNDING—Mr Victor Dominello asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

In reference to advice received regarding School Education Services allocations in Budget Paper No. 4 (Question 6946):(1) When will the details for the allocation of individual projects under the 2009-10 Demountable

Replacement program be available?(2) When will the details for the allocation of individual projects under the 2009-10 State-wide

Compliance program be available?Answer—(1) The 2009-10 Demountable Replacement program has been approved. The following schools were

included in the program: • Figtree Public School• Engadine Public School






• Pagewood Public School• Jilliby Public School• Mount Riverview Public School• Kororo Public School• Muswellbrook Public School• Wallsend South Public School

(2) Individual projects undertaken under the 2009/10 Statewide Compliance Program are subject to site auditing and surveys, which will determine the scope of works to be undertaken. Information on the individual projects undertaken will not become available until the completion of the 2009/10 program.The 2009-10 Statewide Compliance Program includes:

• approximately 2700 heaters being installed at schools in the Sutherland, Bankstown, Mount Druitt and Northern Beaches School Education Areas;

• pre-School compliance (stage 3) audits being undertaken at pre-schools in the New England, North Coast, Riverina and Western NSW Regions; and

• approximately 2300 Continuous Earth Monitoring systems for Welding Bay electrical outlets being installed statewide in high schools, central schools and TAFE Colleges.

*7650 UNPAID HOSPITAL BILLS—Mr Victor Dominello asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) How many accounts received ("bills") of 90 days or over remain unpaid at Ryde Hospital?(2) What is the total amount owing on bills of 90 days or over that are currently unpaid at Ryde

Hospital?(3) How many bills between 45 days and 89 days remain unpaid at Ryde Hospital?(4) What is the total amount owing on bills of between 45 days and 89 days that are currently unpaid at

Ryde Hospital?(5) How many bills of 90 days or over remain unpaid at Macquarie Hospital?(6) What is the total amount owing on bills of 90 days or over that are currently unpaid at Macquarie

Hospital?(7) How many bills between 45 days and 89 days remain unpaid at Macquarie Hospital?(8) What is the total amount owing on bills of between 45 days and 89 days that are currently unpaid at

Macquarie Hospital?(9) What measures are being undertaken to ensure these outstanding bills are paid?Answer—(1) to (9) Balance sheets together with the management of liquidity and payments are maintained at an

Area Health Service level not on an individual hospital basis.All Area Health Services are required to manage their budgets and pay creditors within established timeframes. Where that has not occurred, NSW Health is assisting Health Services to improve their processes and meet the payment timeframes which have been set.Paying bills on time is an ongoing process and the situation regarding the number and value of invoices changes on a day-to-day basis.

*7651 WEST RYDE DEVELOPMENT—Mr Victor Dominello asked the Minister for Housing, and Minister for Western Sydney—

In reference to your letters to the Minister dated 30 July 2009 and 6 August 2009 and your advice concerning the Housing NSW development in West Ryde (Question 6767):(1) How many Housing NSW units will be built at 8-14 Clifton Street, West Ryde?(2) How many Housing NSW units will be built at 97-99 Darvall Road, West Ryde?(3) Are any of the units specifically designed for particular groups of people?(4) If so, what specific design characteristics have been taken into consideration when preparing plans

for the site?(5) What is the date construction is expected to begin?(6) What is the expected completion date as of 10 September 2009?(7) Why did the advice given in the answer to Question 6767 as to the number of units planned for

construction differ from the number given in each of your letters of 30 July and 6 August 2009?






Answer—(1) 16.(2) As stated in my response to Question 6767, Housing NSW does not own 97 Darvall Road West Ryde

and has no plans to redevelop 99 Darvall Road West Ryde. (3) Clifton St is designed for senior residents. (4) Seniors housing is more accessible accommodation and features, for example, ramps, hobless

showers and larger bedrooms to improve accessibility for people with less mobility. (5) The Clifton Street site is scheduled to start construction (pending planning approval) in late 2009. (6) The Clifton Street site is scheduled to be completed in 2010. (7) Estimates of the amount of housing have changed from initial outline estimates once architectural

drawings have been completed and more detailed planning advice sought.

*7652 WOOD SUPPLY AGREEMENTS—Mr Andrew Fraser asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

Does the Government have any plans to reduce wood supply commitments by buying current wood supply agreements in order to reduce the impact on the timber industry as outlined in the Auditor General's report?Answer—No.

*7653 SUSTAINABLE YIELD OF BLACKBUTT—Mr Andrew Fraser asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

(1) As the sustainable yield of blackbutt is 95,000 cubic metres per annum, why is it allowed to cut this species at the current rate of 135,000 cubic metres?

(2) When will the supply to mills reliant on this species run out?(3) When it runs out, will these mills be given compensation?(4) If compensation is to be paid, what is the expected cost?Answer—(1) In accordance with revised estimates, adjustments in the annual rate of cut are being phased in to

provide an even flow volume over the remaining term of the 20-year Wood Supply Agreements. (2) Revised estimates indicate the available timber is sufficient to meet the Government's timber supply

commitments.(3) Not applicable. (4) Not applicable.

*7656 HEALTH SCREENINGS—CHILDREN IN CARE—Ms Pru Goward asked the Minister for Community Services—

What ratios of children taken into care are receiving health screenings before placement and is the department keeping relevant information in their files regarding health screenings?Answer—Information on health screening prior to entry into care is not stored in KiDS in a manner that can be extracted for reporting purposes. General Health information is usually maintained by Foster Carers. Community Services supports this through the provision of the Personal Health Record (Blue Book) when the child first enters care.Non-government organisations also have responsibility for maintaining Health Care records for children and young people in placements in their services.Community Services would hold information on any comprehensive or specialist health screening or assessment on a child or young people where we retain case management responsibility.

*7657 VEHICLE NUMBERS ON F3—Mr Chris Hartcher asked the Minister for Roads—

How many vehicles travel:(a) south on the F3 each weekday;(b) north on the F3 each weekday?






Answer—I am advised:Average weekday traffic counts on the F3 Freeway at the Hawkesbury River are:

Southbound - 33,600 vehicles per day.Northbound - 36,500 vehicles per day.

*7658 PAYROLL TAX—CENTRAL COAST POSTCODES—Mr Chris Hartcher asked the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

In relation to payroll tax on the central coast:What was the total amount collected for postcodes 2250, 2251, 2259, 2260, 2261, and 2262 for the financial years:

(a) 2006;(b) 2007;(c) 2008?


*7659 MATERNITY PATIENTS—Mr Chris Hartcher asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

How many maternity patients were transferred from Wyong Hospital to Gosford Hospital in:(a) 2007;(b) 2008?

Answer—I am advised:(1) In 2007, there were a total of 115 patients transferred from Wyong Hospital to Gosford Hospital; 23

post partum and 92 unconfined patients.(2) In 2008, there were a total of 109 patients transferred from Wyong Hospital to Gosford Hospital; 40

post partum and 69 unconfined patients.

*7660 MONA VALE HOSPITAL LEGAL ACTIONS—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

Have any legal proceedings been instituted for (a) debt recovery or (b) negligence against Mona Vale Hospital or the Area Health Service regarding Mona Vale Hospital during 2009?Answer—

(a) No.(b) One.

*7661 MANLY HOSPITAL LEGAL ACTIONS—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

Have any legal proceedings been instituted for (a) debt recovery or (b) negligence against Manly Hospital or the Area Health Service regarding Manly Hospital during 2009?Answer—I am advised that there have been no legal proceedings instituted for debt recovery or negligence against Manly Hospital during the period in question.






*7662 HOSPITAL DEBT—Mr Brad Hazzard asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

What was the level of outstanding debt of (a) Manly Hospital and (b) Mona Vale Hospital at the end of each month to date in the current financial year?Answer—Balance sheets together with the management of liquidity and payments are maintained at an Area Health Service level not on an individual hospital basis.All Area Health Services are required to manage their budgets and pay creditors within established timeframes. Where that has not occurred, NSW Health is assisting Health Services to improve their processes and meet the payment timeframes which have been set.Paying bills on time is an ongoing process and the situation regarding the number and value of invoices changes on a day-to-day basis.

*7663 SPEECH THERAPIST IN YASS—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Why has the Speech Therapist position in Yass not yet been filled, despite being vacant for at least four months?

(2) Given the previous Minister for Health's commitment that urgent cases will be treated in Goulburn while the Yass position is vacant, why have children from Murrumbateman, with an urgent need to access speech therapy, been refused treatment by both Young and Goulburn because Murrumbateman is outside their boundaries?

(3) When will the Minister fill the Speech Therapist position or appoint a locum in Yass?Answer—I am advised:

(1) to (3) The recruitment process is currently underway with the Greater Southern Area Health Service anticipating the commencement of a suitably qualified Speech Pathologist in the coming months.The Area Health Service is not aware of any urgent cases being denied access to Speech Therapy services in the Murrumbateman area.

*7664 CROWN LAND—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) Will the Minister confirm advice from Mr Geoff Hill of Young that the Goulburn office of the Department of Lands has placed "on the backburner" the resolution of a dispute with him over the Crown Land at Lot 1, Section 67, Shire of Young, Parish of Monteagle on Crown Plan 162.1768?

(2) Will the Minister also confirm advice given to him that this is as a result of having insufficient resources to resolve this matter, despite requests from Mr Hill for a quick resolution?

(3) Will the Minister intervene to ensure that this matter is resolved quickly?Answer—I have asked the Land and Property Management Authority for an explanation why this matter was delayed. In the meantime, I'm advised that subject to satisfying the terms of relevant legislation, there would appear to be no objection to selling or leasing the encroached area (of 250m2) to Mrs Hill. In this regard, I have directed the Authority to legalise the encroachment in favour of Mrs Hill as quickly as possible.

*7665 WATER FOR LIFE ADVERTISEMENTS—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Minister for Water, and Minister for Regional Development—

(1) What was the cost to the then Department of Water and Energy's budget for the full colour, double page "Water 4 Life" advertisement on pages two and three of three of the Sydney Morning Herald Good Weekend Magazine on 6 June 2009?

(2) How much funding has been allocated for the whole "Water 4 Life" advertising campaign?Answer—






I refer the Honourable Member to my answer to Written Question 6826 dated 16 June 2009.

*7666 FUNDING FOR PRIMARY SCHOOLS—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) Have primary schools in the Hornsby electorate been promised funding that has not been given in total due to the Government seizing a percentage to pay for a teachers' pay rise?

(2) If so, which schools and how much funding has been seized?Answer—This year the Commonwealth Labor Government increased the base funding allocation provided to all States and Territories to operate public education systems. With new funding arrangements, the Commonwealth will provide $1,106 million in 2009-10.This funding has never been distributed directly to school principals. It is the base funding used by the State to run the public education system, including capital works and wages, which are paid centrally.100% of the increase in funding is being spent in public primary schools.The greatest cost of running the public education system is wages and accordingly, approximately 50% of the increase in Commonwealth funding has been allocated towards primary teacher salaries. The remaining 50% has been distributed to primary principals for use in their schools as they see fit. Schools in the Hornsby electorate received a total of $215,350 in extra funding as a result of this initiative.

*7667 HORNSBY KU-RING-GAI RURAL FIRE SERVICE—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Emergency Services, and Minister for Small Business—

How is the Hornsby Kuring-gai Rural Fire Service being supported by new powers conferred upon it to investigate bushfires, remove people from fire scenes and secure evidence?Answer—The NSW Government has reviewed current legislation to ensure firefighters have the tools they need to find and prosecute arsonists and reduce the risk of fires. The NSW Government has introduced legislation to enhance the existing powers of the fire investigators and create new powers to try and limit the loss of life and properties.Designated officers from the Rural Fire Service (RFS) will be given the ability to remove people and objects from fire scenes which will bring them in line with current powers of the NSW Fire Brigades.RFS investigators will also be able to enter and inspect land (except that part used for residential purposes), with or without the consent of the owner or occupier, to investigate the cause or origin of a fire for up to 24 hours after the fire has been put out.Where access to land is required after the 24 hour period, the RFS Commissioner will be able to apply for a search warrant.

*7668 DIAMOND GRINDING PROJECT—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Roads—

What is the total cost of the Diamond Grinding "project" on the F3 to date?Answer—I am advised:Information on the Diamond Grinding project on the F3 is available on the Roads and Traffic Authority website at www.rta.nsw.gov.au

*7669 ACCESS TO BREASTSCREEN NSW—Mr Kevin Humphries asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Are there any plans to alter the current criteria for eligibility of women in NSW to access the BreastScreen NSW program?

(2) Will women over the age of 40 years remain eligible for free screening mammograms?(3) Will women aged 50 and above still receive screening reminders every two years?(4) Are there still 36 fixed breast screening sites across NSW?(5) How many mobile screening units are operating across NSW and in how many locations?(6) Which are the locations classified as "remote" where mobile screening units are currently operating?






Answer—(1) to (3) BreastScreen NSW is part of BreastScreen Australia, the national mammographic screening program, as such, criteria for screening are decided at a national level. The BreastScreen Australia Evaluation recommendations are to be further discussed at the Australian Health Minister's Conference in November 2009.(4) Currently there are 42 fixed breast screening sites in operation in NSW.(5) Currently there are 12 mobile breast screening units in operation in NSW, servicing more than 170 locations over a biennial period.(6) The following locations serviced by mobile screening units are considered to be "remote":

Armidale Cessnock Gloucester Muswellbrook TumutArmidale AMS Cobar Goulburn Narrabri TuncurryAshford Collarenebri Guyra Narrandera UrallaBarraba Cooma Hawks Nest Nyngan UrbenvilleBellbrook Cootamundra Hay Pius X AMS WalchaBingara Crookwell Hillston Port Stephens WalgettBoggabilla Deepwater Inverell Scone WarialdaBoggabri Deniliquin Ivanhoe Singleton Wee WaaBombala Denman Jeriderie Tahmoor West WyalongBonalbo Dorrigo Jindabyne Taree WilcanniaBourke Dungog Lightning Ridge TemoraBrewarrina Emmaville Merriwa TenterfieldBulahdelah Finley Moree TinghaBundarra Glen Innes Murrurundi Tumbarumba

*7670 PUBLIC HOUSING—LIGHTNING RIDGE—Mr Kevin Humphries asked the Minister for Housing, and Minister for Western Sydney—

Are there any plans to develop a public housing strategy for Lightning Ridge?Answer—Housing NSW continues to re-assess ways to measure and address housing needs in Lightning Ridge.The NSW Aboriginal Housing Office is planning to build or purchase nine dwellings in Lightning Ridge. The Aboriginal Housing Office previously provided funding to the Barriekneal Housing Limited in Lightning Ridge.

*7671 VOLUNTARY LIQUOR ACCORD—Mr Kevin Humphries asked the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

(1) Have hotel licence holders in Bourke been pressured and intimidated into signing up to further restrictions over and above the current voluntary liquor accord?

(2) Have any further restrictions resulted as an update of any further evidence?(3) How consistently is the "accord" policed and regulated?Answer—(1) I am not aware of hotel licence holders in Bourke being pressured or intimidated.(2) I cannot answer this as the question is unclear. (3) The policing and regulation of a liquor accord is a matter for the accord members. Liquor accords

deal with alcohol-related issues by developing local solutions with minimal formal regulation.

*7672 ELECTIVE SURGERY WAITING LIST—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) How many people were waiting for elective surgery at Sutherland Hospital in June 2009?(2) How many people were Category A "not ready for care" and not counted?Answer—(1) Waiting list data is released quarterly on the NSW Health Website:






www.health.nsw.gov.au/reports/reports.aspAs at the end of June 2009 there were 1,104 patients on the elective surgery waiting list at Sutherland Hospital.

(2) Nil.

*7673 LICENSED SECURITY PERSONNEL—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

In relation to licensed security personnel in the Cronulla Local Area Command:(1) How many licensed security personnel were there in the Cronulla Local Area Command in the

following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

(2) How many security master licences were there in the Cronulla Local Area Command in the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

Answer—The licensing of security firms and personnel does not fall within the Gaming and Racing portfolio - the Security Industry Registry at NSW Police has this responsibility. This question needs to be directed to the Minister for Police.

*7674 LURNEA PRIMARY SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) What will Lurnea Primary School be building under the Building Education Revolution program?(2) How much will it cost?(3) How long will it take?Answer—(1) to (3) Under the Primary Schools for the 21st Century component of the Building Education

Revolution program, Lurnea Public School will receive a new library for $2.5 million and an upgrade to the school's administration facilities for $500,000. These projects will be completed by 31 January 2011.Under the National School Pride component of the of the Building Education Revolution program, Lurnea Public School will receive $200,000 for works based on the school's condition assessment. These projects will be completed by 20 December 2009.

*7675 MACQUARIE FIELDS HIGH SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) What will Macquarie Fields High School be building under the Building Education Revolution program?

(2) How much will it cost?(3) How long will it take?Answer—(1) to (3) Under the National School Pride component of the of the Building Education Revolution

program, Macquarie Fields High School will receive $200,000 for a number of maintenance and minor capital works projects including the construction of a new bus shelter and an internal electrical upgrade to several classroom buildings. These projects will be completed by 1 February 2010.

*7676 CASULA HIGH SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) What will Casula High School be building under the Building Education Revolution program?(2) How much will it cost?(3) How long will it take?Answer—






(1) to (3) Under the National School Pride component of the of the Building Education Revolution program, Casula High School will receive $200,000 for works based on the school's condition assessment, as well as an upgrade to the school's electrical system. These projects will be completed by 20 December 2009.

*7677 CEILING INSULATION REBATES—Mr Wayne Merton asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

How many $300 ceiling insulation rebates were paid between 1 October 2007 and 30 June 2009 to households in the Baulkham Hills Local Government Area?Answer—I am advised:207.


How many $300 ceiling insulation rebates were paid between 1 October 2007 and 30 June 2009 to households in the Parramatta Local Government Area?Answer—I am advised:151


How many $300 ceiling insulation rebates were paid between 1 October 2007 and 30 June 2009 to households in the Blacktown Local Government Area?Answer—I am advised:309

*7680 FRIDGE BUYBACK SCHEME—Mr Wayne Merton asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

How many residents of the Parramatta Local Government Area and Blacktown Local Government Area have participated in the Fridge Buyback scheme to date?Answer—I am advised that as at 31 August 2009, 17 residents of the Parramatta Local Government Area and 11 residents of the Blacktown Local Government Area have participated in the Fridge Buyback Scheme.

*7681 FRIDGE BUYBACK SCHEME—Mr Wayne Merton asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

How many residents of the Baulkham Hills Local Government Area have participated in the Fridge Buyback scheme to date?Answer—I am advised that as at 31 August 2009, 54 residents of the Hills Shire Council Local Government Area, which includes the suburb of Baulkham Hills, have participated in the Fridge Buyback scheme.

*7682 NEWCASTLE CBD REVITALISATION—Mr Matthew Morris asked the Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Hunter, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

(1) Is the Minister aware that the majority of Hunter members oppose the removal of rail services into Newcastle CBD?

(2) Does the Minister agree that transport services are critical to Newcastle's CBD revitalisation?(3) Does the Minister agree that all revitalisation projects can occur with rail services remaining?(4) Does GPT propose to develop on railway land if the line is removed?(5) Has the Minister been advised by GPT that they will walk away from their proposal if the rail service

is not removed?






(6) How many meetings with GPT has the Minister had and⁄or discussions with their representatives?Answer—I am aware of public comments made by other Hunter members regarding public transport projects in the Hunter region.I recognise the need for improved transport connections within the Newcastle CBD. That is why the NSW Government is conducting a scoping study of transport options to support the revitalisation of Newcastle's city centre.The Hunter Development Corporation's City Centre Renewal Report indicates that in order to ensure the optimal redevelopment of the inner-city, each catalyst project identified should not be considered mutually exclusive.It also recommends with each transport option examined, that the current transport corridor should remain in public ownership.I am aware the General Property Trust has lodged a development application with Newcastle City Council and has put on hold its plans for Newcastle during the global economic crisis. Any decision relating to the approval of the development should be directed to Newcastle City Council. Any decision relating to General Property Trust's commitment to the project should be directed to the company.

*7684 ST IVES SHOWGROUND CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) When did the St Ives Showground Consultative Committee, established by your predecessor in September 1999, last meet?

(2) Has Ku-ring-gai Council ignored any objections under the Crown Lands Act 1989 or closed down the committee without proper authority?

(3) Does your department have any concerns over plans for future use of the Surgeon White Reserve at St Ives?

Answer—(1) 20 October 2003.(2) No.(3) No.

*7685 WAITING LISTS—PUBLIC DENTAL CLINICS—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What method is used to compile "waiting lists" for people requiring services at public dental clinic in NSW?

(2) How are people given an indication of their position on the waiting list, or the time likely before they can access dental services?

Answer—I am advised:(1) Data on the number of persons with a status of "waiting" on an assessment or treatment waiting list

within the Information System for Oral Health is collated for regular time periods and made available on the NSW Health web site.

(2) Waiting times for public dental services in NSW are difficult to measure and compare state-wide due to differences in demand and ability to supply services both in the public and private sector. Persons are treated based on clinical need and not chronologically under the NSW Priority Oral Health Program. Thus waiting times vary due to the needs of patients contacting the service and local workforce capacity issues.

*7686 MEDICARE EPC AND TEEN DENTAL PROGRAMS—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—






What action has the NSW Government taken to evaluate the Medicare EPC and Teen Dental Programs, and to inform the community exactly what has happened to the extra Federal Government money recently directed to dentistry in NSW?Answer—I refer the Member to my response to Question No. 3456 in the Legislative Council.

*7687 FOREST COACH LINE BUS SERVICES—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) What plans are there for extra Forest Coach Line bus services between Sydney City and the Belrose area in 2010?

(2) What is the latest daily service from Belrose to the City currently on: (a) weekdays;(b) weekends?

(3) What is the latest daily service from City to Belrose currently on: (a) weekdays;(b) weekends?

(4) How will the latest service situation change under the new timetable proposed for 2010?Answer—I am advised:(1) to (4) Funding for an additional 300 buses for Sydney, Newcastle, Central Coast and the Illawarra

was announced in November 2008. Forest Coach Lines, the contract holder for the Metropolitan Bus System Contract for Region 14, will receive 12 of these additional buses, which are scheduled to be on the road in Region 14 by July 2010. Buses will be allocated where there is greatest demand, which is likely to include the Belrose area.

*7688 CONFIDENTIALITY PROVISIONS—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

Is the Premier bound by the confidentiality provisions of Section 70 of the ICAC Act?Answer—I am advised:Any suggestion that the ICAC Actmay have been breached when the Premier announced the Government's decision concerning the proposed ICAC Commissioner is without foundation.The confidentiality provision in section 70 of the ICAC Act refers to:

"evidence proposed to be given before, or the whole or any part of a document produced or proposed to be produced in evidence to, the Joint Committee".

The Premier has received legal advice that neither the Government's proposed choice as Commissioner, nor the Premier's letter referring the proposed Commissioner to the Joint Committee, comes within these terms. The only requirement imposed by the legislation is that the referral to the Joint Committee be in writing.

*7689 EDUCATION COMMITTEES AND BOARDS—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

In relation to Education Committees and Boards:(1) Of the 369 NSW Government committees and boards (as noted in the Sydney Morning Herald on 20

July 2009), how many are administered⁄managed from the Department of Education and Training?(2) What are the names of each of these education committees and boards that satisfy (1)?Answer—Details of education-related boards and committees are provided in the Department of Education and Training's annual report which is publicly available at www.det.nsw.edu.au

*7690 BUDGET PAPER NO. 4—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

Regarding Attorney General projects listed in the 2009-2010 Budget:






In Budget Paper No. 4 at page 4-19 the following entries appear:• Joined Up Justice - Various• Legal Services - Various• Court Upgrades (including JusticeLink project) - Various• Forum Sentencing Facilities - Various• Remote Witness Facilities - Various

What is the amount under the entry that has been allocated to the Murrumbidgee electorate?Answer—I am advised:Funds are allocated on a program basis and not on an electorate basis.

*7691 YOUTH COMMITTEES AND BOARDS—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Volunteering, Minister for Youth, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Veterans' Affairs—

In relation to Youth Committees and Boards:(1) Of the 369 NSW Government committees and boards (as noted in the Sydney Morning Herald on 20

July 2009), how many are administered⁄managed under the Youth Affairs portfolio?(2) What are the names of each of these Youth Affairs committees and boards that satisfy (1)?Answer—(1) Two.(2) Youth Advisory Council and NSW Child Death Review Team.

*7693 DISPOSAL OF HOSPITAL WASTE—Mr Greg Piper asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What procedures are followed for the disposal of waste at the Morisset Hospital?(2) Does a landfill site operate within the grounds of Morisset Hospital?Answer—I am advised:(1) There are approved waste management practices in place for different types of waste on site at

Morisset Hospital. These include using contracted services to remove or recycle general or recyclable waste, mulching and reuse of green waste on site and transportation of other waste to an approved local landfill site at Awaba, which is managed by Lake Macquarie City Council.

(2) No.

*7694 UNLICENSED LANDFILL AT MORISSET—Mr Greg Piper asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

Is the Minister aware of an unlicensed landfill operating at coordinates -33.123895, +151.498032 on land at Morisset owned by the Koompahtoo Aboriginal Land Council?Answer—I am advised that the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water is investigating, with the City of Lake Macquarie Council, allegations of illegal landfilling at this location.

*7695 TWEED EDUCATION AND RESEARCH CLINIC—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Hunter, Minister for Science and Medical Research, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer)—

In relation to the Tweed Education and Research Clinic at the Tweed Hospital:How much money has been invested in this clinic for research purposes in the Tweed Hospital in the following years:

(a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

Answer—






I am advised:(a) Nil. The building was still under construction during 2007.(b) The cash grant contribution provided from Bond and Griffith Universities into the Tweed

Education and Research Clinic totalled $249,000. The facility was also established to facilitate research activity essentially via the provision of office space and computer access.The in-kind cash contribution from the North Coast Area Health Service and the Tweed Hospital totals $180,000. Support staff, computer information systems and research library are available and utilised by Cancer Care Trial Staff, as well as other Clinical Staff who have undertaken a range of research projects to improve service delivery and models of care.

(c) The year-to-date (September 2009) cash grant contribution to the Education and Research Clinic is $187,000. The in-kind cash contribution from the North Coast Area Health Service and the Tweed Hospital totals $180,000.

Of note, extensive Cancer research continues in other parts of the Tweed Hospital site. Currently 40 clinical trials are running, these include pharmaceutical, collaborative, supportive, preventative and observational trials for breast, gastric, colon, lung, lymphoma, melanoma cancers in the Cancer Unit on site at the Tweed Hospital. The clinicians and researchers undertaking these Clinical Trials have access to facilities in the Education and Research Clinic.

*7696 CONFISCATED ILLICIT DRUGS—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

In relation to illicit drugs confiscated in the Tweed⁄Byron Local Area Command (LAC):(1) What is the total amount of illicit drugs confiscated in the last 12 months?(2) Where is the Tweed⁄Byron Local Area Command ranked in the State in terms of illicit dugs

confiscated per head⁄population?Answer—The NSW Police Force has advised me:(1) Over 53 kgs of illicit drugs have been confiscated in the Tweed⁄Byron Local Area Command in the

past 12 months, including over 3,500 cannabis plants. (2) This information is unable to be obtained from the police database.

*7697 HOUSING INSULATION PROJECT—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Housing, and Minister for Western Sydney—

In relation to the NSW Government-funded housing insulation project in the Tweed electorate:(1) What is the total number of houses that have benefited from the housing insulation project funded by

the NSW Government in the Tweed electorate?(2) What is the total amount of money that has been allocated to the funding of this project in the Tweed

electorate?Answer—(1) and (2) Funding from Housing NSW has not been allocated to install ceiling insulation in the Tweed

electorate.

*7698 ACTION AGAINST STAFF MEMBER—Mr Michael Richardson asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

What action is being taken against the DECCW staff member who used the department's IT system to illegally advertise a two-year-old pit bull?Answer—I am advised that the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water has received and is investigating allegations of inappropriate use of its email system by an employee.

*7699 THREATENING OF STAFF—Mr Michael Richardson asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) What support was offered to the DECCW officer who received a death threat from Nigel Stevens at Thredbo in 2008?

(2) How are DECCW officers trained to respond in these circumstances?(3) How are DECCW officers equipped to respond in these circumstances?






(4) Are DECCW officers mandated to travel in pairs during these type of visits?Answer—I am advised:(1) DECCW supported the officer by taking the matter to court. Counselling support was also offered.(2) The officer in question has over 13 years' experience working in a regulatory role, and has been

trained in how to handle difficult situations including conflict resolution and negotiation skills. (3) All DECCW officers who have a regulatory role are trained to exercise discretion and self protect if

they find themselves in difficult, intimidating or threatening circumstances. (4) A risk management approach is adopted by the DECCW in making these decisions. In this incident

the officer was accompanied by another DECCW officer.

*7700 PROTECTION OF LITTLE PENGUINS—Mr Michael Richardson asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) How many rotational shooters does the National Parks and Wildlife Service use to protect little penguins in Manly and North Head?

(2) How many are on duty at any one time?(3) How long are the shifts?(4) How many shots have been fired?(5) How much does it cost for one shooter to cover one shift?Answer—I am advised:The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) uses a range of strategies including baiting and trapping to protect little penguins in Manly and North Head. Following a number of penguin deaths in July this year, the NPWS in conjunction with the Livestock Health and Pest Authority and other land holders increased baiting and trapping, and incorporated night time patrols by shooters at remote beaches to protect the penguins and to try and eradicate any foxes. There have been no further penguin deaths and the NPWS is no longer using shooters in this area. The night time patrols consisted of one shooter and another person. Only one shot was fired during these patrols. Shifts varied in length but were typically from three to six hours in duration and cost $120 per hour.

*7701 BUS LANE—Mr Anthony Roberts asked the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

How many car drivers have been booked for driving in the bus only lane on Epping Road since its commencement?Answer—There have been 164 penalty notices issued for the offence 'drive in bus lane' on Epping Road.

*7702 TRAFFIC/SPEEDING INFRINGEMENTS—Mr Anthony Roberts asked the Minister for Roads—

How many motorists had their driving licences suspended due to traffic⁄speeding infringements by electorate in NSW for the years:

(a) 2001-2008 inclusive;(b) 2008 to date?

Answer—I am advised:Information concerning licence suspensions is available on the Roads and Traffic Authority website at www.rta.nsw.gov.au

*7703 PAYROLL TAX—2111 POSTCODE—Mr Anthony Roberts asked the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

In relation to payroll tax in the Lane Cove electorate:What was the amount collected from businesses located within the 2111 postcode during;

(a) financial year 2006-2007;






(b) financial year 2007-2008;(c) financial year 2008-2009 to date?



In relation to payroll tax in the Lane Cove electorate:What was the amount collected from businesses located within the 2110 postcode during:

(a) financial year 2006-2007;(b) financial year 2007-2008;(c) financial year 2008-2009 to date?



In relation to payroll tax in the Lane Cove electorate:What was the amount collected from businesses located within the 2066 postcode during;

(a) financial year 2006-2007;(b) financial year 2007-2008;(c) financial year 2008-2009 to date?


*7706 TRAFFIC/SPEEDING INFRINGEMENTS—Mr Anthony Roberts asked the Minister for Roads—

How many motorists had their driving licences suspended due to traffic⁄speeding infringements by postcode in NSW for the years:

(a) 2005-2008 inclusive;(b) 2008 to date?

Answer—I am advised:Information concerning licence suspensions is available on the Roads and Traffic Authority website at www.rta.nsw.gov.au

*7707 ROYAL RYDE REHABILITATION SITE—Mr Anthony Roberts asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) How many meetings have there been in both the Minister's office and department at which the development at the Royal Ryde Rehabilitation site, Putney has been raised: (a) as an agenda item?(b) as a non-agenda item?

(2) What are the names of the attendees and the dates of the meetings?Answer—






In relation to meetings with the Minister's office, see answers to questions 7708 and 7709. The Minister has met with Ryde Council, the Riding for Disabled Association (RDA), and opponents - community group CAPO (the Coalition Against Private Overdevelopment).

• The Minister met with Ryde Council on 3 December 2008. Attendees were Tony Pooley (Minister's Chief of Staff), Cr Vic Tagg (Mayor), Michael Whittaker (Ryde Council), and Meryl Bishop (Ryde Council).

• The Minister met with the Riding for the Disabled Association on 1 June 2009. Attendees were Tony Pooley (Minister's Chief of Staff), Jaci Armstrong (RDA) and Gerard Murphy (RDA).

• The Minister met with a community group opposed to the project called CAPO on 9 December 2008. The attendees were Tony Pooley (Minister's Chief of Staff), and representatives of CAPO: Ted Webber, (CAPO member), Eleanor Chaine (CAPO member), Simone Galvon (CAPO member) and Rolf Clapham (President of CAPO).

In relation to the department, there have been a number of meetings held regarding the redevelopment of the Royal Ryde Rehabilitation site including with Ryde City Council, the proponent, the Riding for Disabled Association, Meriton, State Agencies and resident groups. This is a standard part of the assessment process for any major project application.

*7708 ROYAL RYDE REHABILITATION SITE—Mr Anthony Roberts asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) Has the Minister or any of the Minister's staff met with at any time, formally or informally, developers or their lobbyists with respect to the Royal Ryde Rehabilitation site at Putney?

(2) If so, when and with whom?Answer—(1) No.(2) N⁄A.

*7709 ROYAL RYDE REHABILITATION CENTRE—Mr Anthony Roberts asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

Have there been any informal meetings at all between the proponent of the redevelopment of the Royal Ryde Rehabilitation Centre at Putney, or a potential developer, and a member of the Minister's staff?Answer—No.

*7710 AREA HEALTH ADVISORY COUNCILS—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

What are the budgetary allocations allocated for the 2008-09 costs associated with the Area Health Advisory Councils broken down by:

(a) fees paid to members of Advisory Councils;(b) travel costs of members of Advisory Councils;(c) travel costs of management support staff to the Advisory Councils;(d) other support costs?

Answer—I refer the Member to my response to Question No. 6551 in the Legislative Assembly.I am advised it is an unreasonable diversion of Health resources to provide the level of data being requested, when Health funds should properly be used to treat patients.

*7711 BREAST CANCER SCREENING PARTICIPATION RATE—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What is the breast cancer screening participation rate of women in NSW in the age group 50 to 69 in the metropolitan areas of Sydney, Wollongong and Newcastle?

(2) What is the breast cancer screening participation rate of women in NSW in the age group 40 to 44 in the metropolitan areas of Sydney, Wollongong and Newcastle?






(3) What is the breast cancer screening participation rate of women in NSW in the age group 50 to 69 in rural and regional areas?

(4) What is the breast cancer screening participation rate of women in NSW in the age group 40 to 44 in rural and regional areas?

Answer—(1) to (4) I am advised by the Cancer Institute (NSW) that, as at 31 July 2009, the biennial breast cancer

screening participation rates of women in NSW was as follows:Area Women aged 50 to 69 Women aged 40 to 44Sydney Local Government Area 43.1% 5.6%Wollongong Local Government Area 59.2% 6.3%Newcastle Local Government Area 60.3% 7.4%Rural /Regional Area Health Services Women aged 50 to 69 Women aged 40 to 44Greater Southern Area Health Service

53.6% 6.7%

Greater Western Area Health Service 54.7% 17.6%North Coast Area Health Service 58.2% 4.8%Hunter New England Area Health Service

63.2% 7.2%

*7712 PALLIATIVE CARE UNITS—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

How many Palliative Care Units have been closed across NSW since January 2009?Answer—I am advised that no public Palliative Care Units have been closed in NSW since January 2009.

*7713 PART 3A APPROVAL—Mr Greg Smith asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) How many times has the Mobbs Lane Epping Channel 7 site Part 3A approval been discussed by the Minister since taking office?

(2) What variations have been requested since the original approval?(3) What variations have been approved since the original approval?Answer—(1) Never.(2) The Department is currently assessing two Project Applications on the Channel 7 site which seek the

following variations from the approved Concept Plan:Stage 1 residential development • The Project Application seeks a variation to the approved Concept Plan for Building 7.• Amendments are also requested for a number of Statement of Commitments including

variations to setbacks, sunlight access to apartments and basements.

Early works package • The Project Application seeks variations to the approved Concept Plan by varying the

internal road network and location of the proposed child care centre and resident facilities.• An amendment is also requested to a Statement of Commitment relating to the location of

the café adjoining the day care centre.

(3) No variations have yet been approved.

*7714 GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) What was the total number of full time and part time teachers employed at government schools in the Pittwater electorate in: (a) 2007(b) 2008(c) 2009 YTD?






(2) What was the total number of resignations of full time and part time teachers working at schools in the Pittwater electorate in: (a) 2007(b) 2008(c) 2009 YTD?

Answer—(1) The total number of full-time and part-time teachers employed at government schools in the

Pittwater electorate on 1 March of each year was: (a) 2007 - 362(b) 2008 - 356(c) 2009 - 343

(2) The total number of resignations of full-time and part-time teachers working at government schools in the Pittwater electorate was: (a) 2007 - 3(b) 2008 - 1(c) 2009 - 4

(up to 1 September 2009)

*7715 "SPECIAL NEEDS" TEACHERS—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) What is the total number of 'special needs' teachers employed in the Pittwater Electorate?(2) Are there any plans to employ any additional 'special needs' teachers in the Pittwater electorate?(3) If the answer to question (2) is yes:

(a) How many new teachers will be employed?(b) Which schools will be allocated these additional teachers?

Answer—(1) There are 9.9 full-time equivalent 'special needs' teachers in government schools in the Pittwater

Electorate.(2) The consideration of additional special needs teacher positions is part of the annual process of

regional planning.This involves an on-going analysis of enrolments, demand for and location of special education services as well as consultation with parents and relevant school communities.This planning process is currently underway in Northern Sydney Region; however no additional special needs teacher positions can be confirmed at this time.

(3) Not applicable.

*7716 DRAFT NATIONAL WASTE POLICY—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) Why has the NSW Government failed to make a public submission in the context of the Draft National Waste Policy consultation process?

(2) What targets does the NSW Government support in the context of the Draft National Waste Policy consultation process?

Answer—(1) The development of a new National Waste Policy is an initiative of the Environment Protection and

Heritage Council. As a member of the Council, the NSW Government has been closely involved in this work. It was not necessary for NSW to comment.

(2) The aim of the proposed new National Waste Policy is to complement and build on existing jurisdictional waste and resource recovery policies. In this regard, NSW already has ambitious resource recovery targets as laid out in the Waste Avoidance and Resource Recovery Strategy 2007. Processes already exist for these targets to be regularly reviewed and updated.

*7717 CONSULTATION REGULATORY IMPACT STATEMENT—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) Why has the NSW Government failed to make a public submission in the context of the Consultation Regulatory Impact Statement for Televisions and Computers?

(2) What is the current rate of recovery and recycling of televisions and computers in New South Wales?






Answer—I am advised:(1) The NSW Government was closely involved in the drafting of the Consultation Regulatory Impact

Statement on behalf of the Environment Protection and Heritage Council. It was not necessary for NSW to comment.

(2) The current rate of recovery and recycling of televisions and computers in NSW is estimated to be similar to the national average.

*7718 PUBLIC TRANSPORT INFORMATION AND PRIORTY SYSTEM—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) Is the introduction of the Public Transport Information and Priority System still on schedule to be completed by December 2009 as stated in the 2009-2010 Budget Papers (page 21-14)?

(2) If the answer to question (1) is no: (a) When is it expected that this system will be operational across the entire STA Network?(b) When is it expected that this system will be operational on all STA services operating

throughout Contract Region 8?(3) What benefits will be provided to commuters in Contract Region 8 by the introduction of the Public

Transport Information and Priority System?Answer—I am advised:(1) and (2) Yes.(3) Developed as part of the RTA's Bus Priority program, the PTIPS works with the RTA's computerised traffic signal system (SCATS) to assist buses run to timetable by providing priority to late running buses at traffic lights through altering timing of the signals where appropriate.In addition, the PTIPS technology can also be used to forecast arrival times at bus stops, with the potential to provide passengers with real-time information about the arrival of their bus, and assist bus operators with the scheduling of contracted bus services.

*7719 RURAL FLOODPLAIN, COASTAL AND ESTUARY MANAGEMENT—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) What are the 11 "Rural floodplain, coastal and estuary management" plans forecast to be completed in 2009-10 (Budget estimates 2009-10, 3-16)?

(2) Will these plans contain guidelines on how local councils are to manage the impact of sea level rise?Answer—I am advised:(1) The following rural floodplain management plans are forecast to be completed in 2009⁄10:

• Gwydir River: Moomin Creek• Edward-Wakool (Stage 1) Deniliquin to Moama: Moulamein Railway• Edward-Wakool (Stage 2) Moama: Moulamein Railway to Gee Gee Bridge • Edward-Wakool (Stage 3) Moama: Moulamein Railway to Liewah and Mallan• Lachlan River: Gooloogong to Jemalong Gap• Lachlan River: Jemalong Gap to Condobolin

The following coastal and estuary management plans are forecast to be prepared and adopted by councils in 2009⁄10:

• Byron Shire Coastal Zone Management Plan • Lake Cathie Coastal Zone Management Plan• Manning River Estuary Management Plan • Hunter Estuary Coastal Zone Management Plan • Bega River Estuary Management Plan

(2) All rural floodplain management plans are inland plans prepared by the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water for Murray-Darling Basin tributaries for use by the NSW Office of Water to assist with the determination of flood control works. They are not council plans and do not have guidelines on how to manage sea level rise.






Coastal and estuary management plans are prepared by councils in accordance with the Coastline Management Manual and Estuary Management Manual. The management options considered by councils in developing these plans incorporate allowances for sea level rise. The Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water is preparing guidelines on how sea level rise benchmarks should be used in assessing coastal hazards and flood risk. Those management plans that have not considered sea level rise to date will be encouraged to do so through the Coastal and Estuary Management grants programs.

*7720 "SALTWATER" DEVELOPMENT—SOUTH WEST ROCKS—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

Regarding the "Saltwater" development at South West Rocks:(1) Did the Department of Land and Water Conservation in 1996 give consent to clear native vegetation

at "Saltwater", South West Rocks, on the Mid North Coast of NSW under SEPP 46 to establish a tea-tree plantation?

(2) Did the DLWC state in its SEPP 46 Assessment that "Refusal to clear would deprive the township of South West Rocks of 'future long-term development totalling 40 million dollars' " (applicant's estimate)?

(3) Was this a misuse of SEPP 46 given it is now a multi-million dollar residential development project?Answer—I am advised:(1) Yes, subject to conditions.(2) Yes.(3) No. The SEPP 46 assessment undertaken for the proposal by the former Department of Land and

Water Conservation acknowledged that "the eventual intention of clearing the land is to initiate steps towards a change in land zoning to allow for residential use".

*7721 UPGRADE OF MAIN ROAD 92—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Roads—

In regards to the upgrade of Main Road 92:Are there any plans to upgrade the unsealed sections beyond Nerriga toward Braidwood?Answer—I am advised: The RTA has no current plans to upgrade Main Road 92 beyond Nerriga toward Braidwood.

*7722 SAND DREDGING FROM COASTAL RIVERS—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Energy, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

What is the Government's policy in relation to the dredging of sand from the mouth of coastal rivers by private organisations and the payment of royalties to the Government for sand removed?Answer—This is the responsibility of the Minister for Lands, the Hon Tony Kelly MLC.

*7723 LOW INCOME HOUSEHOLD REFIT PROGRAM—Mr John Turner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) Will the Low Income Household Refit Program that is currently available only in Western Sydney, be available to constituents in the remainder of NSW?

(2) If so, when?(3) If so, who will be eligible?(4) What are the details of the program?(5) What is the implementation date of the program?(6) If not, why not?Answer—I am advised:(1) Yes.(2) Tenders are expected to be called for state-wide contracting services in October 2009. (3) NSW households that are energy utility hardship customers, or have one of the following:






• a Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card;• a Centrelink Low Income Health Care Card;• a Department of Veterans' Affairs Repatriation Health Card;• a Department of Veterans' Affairs Pensioner Concession Card.

(4) The program includes a free household energy efficiency assessment and refit that helps households to save on energy use and costs, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

(5) The program will run up to June 2013.(6) Not applicable.

*7724 COASTAL POLICY FUNDING TO COMBAT COASTAL EROSION—Mr John Turner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) Has the Government recently provided $13 million funding in relation to matters pertaining to coastal erosion under the Coastal Policy?

(2) If so, how were these disbursed and to whom were they disbursed?(3) If funding was made available for on the ground work, who received such funds and how much did

they receive and what work was, or is, to be carried out with those funds?(4) If funding was made available for planning work, who received such funds and how much was

received by each body or organisation and what planning work will be carried out under such grants?(5) Specifically, will any of the funds mentioned in question (1) for on the ground work, or planning

work, be allocated to combat the erosion problems at Old Bar Beach?(6) If so, how much and for what work?(7) If so, have the funds been paid?(8) If not, when will they be paid?Answer—I am advised:(1) On 6 August 2009, the NSW Government announced over $13 million in grant offers to local

councils under the 2009-2010 estuary, coastal and floodplain management programs. This includes $1.5 million in new grants to twenty councils to prepare and implement Coastal Management Plans.

(2) Details of the grants are available on the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water's website.

(3) See answer to question (2).(4) See answer to question (2).(5) The Greater Taree City Council did not apply for any grants from the 2009-2010 Coastal

Management Program, so the recent announcements for funding did not include any projects associated with Old Bar Beach.

(6) Council had previously been provided funding assistance totalling up to $82,500 on a 1:1 basis to prepare a Coastline Hazard Definition Study, a Coastline Management Study, and a Coastal Zone Management Plan for the coastline from Crowdy Head to Black Head, which includes Old Bar Beach.

(7) To date, Greater Taree City Council has been paid $40,178. (8) The final payment is expected this financial year.

*7725 UNANSWERED CORRESPONDENCE—Mr John Turner asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

When will the Premier answer Mr Bill Bentley's (Wherrol Flat) letter to him?Answer—A response has been sent.


*7726 AHS OVERDUE PAYMENTS—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

In relation to the North Shore⁄Central Coast Area Health Service:






(1) Does the Area Health Service have any overdue bills?(2) If so, to whom and what is the total amount?Answer—(1) and (2) All Area Health Services are required to manage their budgets and pay creditors within

established timeframes. Where that has not occurred, NSW Health is assisting Health Services to improve their processes and meet the payment timeframes which have been set.Paying bills on time is an ongoing process and the situation regarding the number and value of invoices changes on a day-to-day basis.

*7727 HYDROTHERAPY POOL—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

What progress has been made about the inclusion of a hydrotherapy pool as part of the Royal North Shore Hospital Redevelopment?Answer—The decision to exclude hydrotherapy from the Redevelopment Project was made by the previous Northern Sydney Area Health Service Board, made up of clinical and community representatives, in 2002. The Royal North Shore Hospital hydrotherapy pool was closed in September 2008 to allow for construction to commence on the new healthcare facilities. Clinical outpatient hydrotherapy services were relocated to the nearby Greenwich Hospital hydrotherapy facility, while clinical inpatient hydrotherapy for spinal patients was relocated to the specialist hydrotherapy facility at the Royal Rehabilitation Centre Sydney. At the time, community users were also individually contacted and provided with a list of local alternatives for their water-based activities. These arrangements have now been operating satisfactorily for more than a year.An expert clinical panel was subsequently established to provide advice to the Chief Executive regarding the effectiveness, safety and cost-effectiveness of hydrotherapy and alternative treatment modalities. The expert panel comprised five clinicians including the Chair, Dr Peter Kennedy, Deputy Chief Executive of the Clinical Excellence Commission. The panel met from June to September 2008 and reported to the Chief Executive. The report is available on the Northern Sydney Central Coast Area Health Service website www.nsccahs.health.nsw.gov.au.This expert clinical panel recommended that hydrotherapy services be available if rehabilitation beds are co-located on the Royal North Shore Hospital site. Rehabilitation beds are currently located on the Greenwich Hospital and Royal Rehabilitation Centre Sydney sites.

*7728 EDINBURGH ROAD RIGHT-HAND TURN ARROW—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Minister for Roads—

Will the Minister meet with local residents to discuss the need for a right-hand turn arrow from Edinburgh Road into Eastern Valley Way?Answer—I am advised: The RTA will conduct further analysis of the right turn phases and the level of service at this intersection, taking into consideration the community views.

*7729 EDINBURGH ROAD RIGHT-HAND TURN ARROW—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Minister for Roads—

What recent advice has the Minister received from the RTA regarding the need for a right-hand turn arrow from Edinburgh Road into Eastern Valley Way?Answer—I refer the Honourable Member to my answer to her Written Question No. LA 7728.

*7730 WILLOUGHBY ROAD UPGRADE—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Minister for Roads—

What plans are there for upgrading Willoughby Road from Crows Nest to Willoughby?Answer—






I am advised:There are no current plans or funding allocated to upgrade Willoughby Road, with the exception of some pavement resurfacing works planned for 2010.

*7731 AHS CREDITORS—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

In relation to your answer on 10 September to a question in Parliament regarding the Western Area Health Service where you stated it is owed more money than it owes, by what organisation, individual or entities is the Area Health Service owed money?Answer—Charges are imposed for a range of clinical services provided to patients and for various other services provided to external organisations. I am advised that the amount owed in respect of those charges to Sydney West Area Health Service as at 31 August 2009 was in the order of $28.8 million. To disclose the level of detail sought by the question in relation to individual accounts would breach client confidentiality.

*7732 CHATSWOOD-EPPING RAIL LINE—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

In relation to the Chatswood-Epping rail line:(1) What action is the Government taking to reduce noise for residents living along the rail line at

Chatswood?(2) What is the Minister's response to concerns about empty trains using train horns exacerbating the

noise pollution?(3) Why has the Government not maintained its commitment to clean graffiti and clear rubbish within

the vicinity of the sound barriers?Answer—I am advised:(1) The Transport Infrastructure Development Corporation (TIDC) and RailCorp have been working

together to lower the operational noise levels adjacent to Chatswood tunnel portal of the Epping - Chatswood Rail Link and have been keeping residents informed. Rail grinding of the tracks was undertaken by RailCorp on 2 May 2009 to reduce air-borne noise levels adjacent to the Chatswood tunnel portal. Noise monitoring undertaken on 5 May indicated that the rail grinding did achieve a reduction in noise levels. Further rail grinding was undertaken in the area on 25⁄26 July. Noise monitoring on 27 July again indicated that air-borne noise was further reduced at nearby residences.Further monitoring was undertaken on 9 August. TIDC and RailCorp are currently assessing the findings and will consider whether additional mitigation measures are required to further reduce operational noise levels in the area.

(2) It is a standard safety procedure for drivers to sound the horn prior to moving a train to alert staff working in the area.

(3) RailCorp is committed to providing a safe and clean railway network. RailCorp is currently in the process of setting up additional maintenance programs for the sound walls in the Roseville and Chatswood areas. There is also an established program for litter removal from the area.

*7733 NIGHTRIDE BUS SERVICE—Ms Gladys Berejiklian asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) What were the funding levels for the NightRide bus service in the following financial years: (a) 2005-06;(b) 2006-07;(c) 2007-08;(d) 2008-09;(e) 2009-10?

(2) How many services in total did the NightRide bus service provide in the following financial years: (a) 2005-06;(b) 2006-07;(c) 2007-08;(d) 2008-09?

(3) What was the total patronage of the NightRide bus service in the following financial years? (a) 2005-06;






(b) 2006-07;(c) 2007-08;(d) 2008-09?

(4) How many assaults took place on the NightRide bus service in the following financial years? (a) 2005-06;(b) 2006-07;(c) 2007-08;(d) 2008-09?

Answer—I am advised:(1) Nightride services are not a specific Budget line item.(2) Information on NightRide services is available on the CityRail website. (3) RailCorp reports on patronage in its Annual Report as required by the elevant legislation.(4) RailCorp relies on statistics provided by the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research to

measure recorded incidents of crime on public transport. I am advised that insofar as recorded crime statistics concerning assaults on buses are concerned, no distinction is made between NightRide bus services and other bus services. Enquiries on the number of assaults recorded on buses across NSW for the periods in question can be directed to the Attorney General.

*7734 SCHOOL LEAGUE TABLES—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

In relation to school league tables:Will the Minister support and negotiate a voluntary code of conduct for NSW newspapers to ensure simplistic league tables of school performance data are not published?Answer—The development of a voluntary code of conduct for any industry group in New South Wales is the responsibility of industry members.

*7735 PERFORMANCE BENCHMARKING—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

In relation to performance benchmarking:What performance ranking data does the Premier's Department have for NSW government agencies and is this data published?Answer—The Department of Premier and Cabinet has published the Customer Service Baseline Report which is available on the Department's website.The Department of Premier and Cabinet, with lead government agencies, has also released the 2008 State Plan Annual Report. This Annual Report is the first full year report on performance against State Plan priorities. The Department also maintains the NSW State Plan website on which is published progress reports on State Plan themes and targets.NSW Government agencies prepare annual reports which include information on service delivery and performance.The Council of Australian Governments' Report on Government Services (RoGS) is an annual publication aiming to informing the community about government agency performance. The Report presents information relating to the effectiveness and efficiency of a number of government-funded and largely government-provided social services. Reports are available at:http://www.pc.gov.au/gsp/reports/rogsThe RoGS is produced by the Steering Committee for the Review of Government Service Provision. Representatives from the NSW Department of Premier and Cabinet and NSW Treasury are members of the Steering Committee. The Productivity Commission acts as the Secretariat for the Steering Committee.

*7736 SOLAR ELECTRICITY GENERATION—Mr Peter Debnam asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

In relation to solar electricity generation:






(1) Is the Premier aware China this week signed an agreement with First Solar to construct a 2,000 megawatt photovoltaic electricity generator, in the Mongolian desert by 2019?

(2) Has the Premier been briefed on the First Solar photovoltaic power plant project and its implications for renewable energy economics?

(3) Have any NSW Government representatives been briefed on the First Solar photovoltaic power plant project?

Answer—(1) and (2) No.(3) I am advised that a NSW Government representative has been briefed on the First Solar photovoltaic power plant project.

*7737 MARSDEN ROAD WORKS—Mr Victor Dominello asked the Minister for Roads—

In relation to the correspondence received by a resident in the Ryde electorate and your reply (ref: GE09⁄4637):(1) What specific concerns were investigated in the vicinity of 41 Marsden Road, West Ryde?(2) What was the outcome of the investigations?(3) What evidence was used to determine the outcome of the investigations?(4) On what date was a site inspection conducted?(5) What personnel were present at the site inspection?Answer—I am advised:(1) The RTA investigated road safety issues, particularly about off-carriageway crashes in the vicinity of

41 Marsden Road, West Ryde.(2) It was decided that installation of a safety barrier at this location could not currently be justified.(3) Evidence considered included:

• Analysis of recorded crash data between January 2005 and August 2009. • Analysis of recent skid resistance capacity of this section of Marsden Road from available

surface friction test results. • Site analysis for examination of the potential safety aspects of the site including conspicuity,

horizontal and vertical alignments, grades, crossfalls, line markings and other road safety issues.

(4) The site inspection was conducted on 26 August 2009.(5) An accredited road safety auditor carried out the detailed investigation including the site inspection.

*7738 MACQUARIE HOSPITAL—Mr Victor Dominello asked the Minister for Local Government, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) Who owns the land at the Macquarie Hospital site?(2) What is the total cost paid to lease the land?(3) How long is the lease period?(4) What NGOs are currently located at the Macquarie Hospital site for the provision of mental health

related services?(5) What NGOs are currently located at the Macquarie Hospital site for the provision of services not

related to mental health?(6) What NGOs located at the Macquarie Hospital site receive rental subsidies?(7) What criteria are used to determine the level of rent subsidisation provided to NGOs at the

Macquarie Hospital site?(8) How often are NGOs located at the Macquarie Hospital site required to re-apply for rent

subsidisation?(9) Are any utility costs subsidised for NGOs located at the Macquarie Hospital site?(10) If so, which utilities are available for subsidisation?Answer—(1) to (3) The land is owned by the Health Administration Corporation and occupied by, not leased by, Northern Sydney Central Coast Area Health Service.(4) NGOs currently located at Macquarie Hospital for the provision of mental health related services are:

• The Benevolent Society of NSW• Schizophrenia Fellowship of NSW - Drop in Day Centre






• ARAFMI NSW Inc (Association of Relatives and Friends of the Mentally Ill)• ADDults with ADHD (NSW)• Diversional Therapy Association

(5)NGOs currently located at Macquarie Hospital for the provision of services not related to mental health are:

• Cystic Fibrosis NSW• Lupus Association of NSW Inc• Alzheimer's Association of NSW Inc• ACHSE (Australian College of Health Service Executives)• Health Information Management Association of Australia

(6) The Benevolent Society of NSW.(7) Tenure arrangements for NGOs located at the Macquarie Hospital site will be considered in the context of and consistent with Government and Departmental policy. Any rental assistance will be considered under the provisions of NSW Health Policy Directive PD2009_061 "Accommodation - Health Owned - Requests from External Organisations" and where appropriate consideration may be given to making a Market Rental Assistance Grant to non-government organisations or other philanthropic or charitable organisations providing not for profit health services.(8) When negotiating their individual tenure arrangements.(9) No. (10) N⁄A.

*7739 BUSES—Mr Victor Dominello asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

In reference to the allocation of replacement and new buses:(1) Which operators have already received delivery of buses as a part of the replacement⁄new buses

allocation in Budget Paper No. 4 of the 2009-10 Budget Papers?(2) What is the unit cost of each bus type provided to operators as a part of the replacement⁄new buses

allocation in Budget Paper No. 4 of the 2009-10 Budget Papers?(3) Which manufacturer(s) received the contract to construct the buses as a part of the replacement⁄new

buses allocation in Budget Paper No. 4 of the 2009-10 Budget Papers?(4) What process was taken to chose the manufacturer(s) of the contract to construct the buses as a part

of the replacement⁄new buses allocation in Budget Paper No. 4 of the 2009-10 Budget Papers?Answer—I am advised:(1) As at 22 September 2009 the following bus regions have already received delivery of buses as a part

of the replacement⁄new buses allocation from the 2009-10 budget: • Metropolitan Bus Contracts Regions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14.• Outer Metropolitan Bus Contract Regions 1, 3, 7, 9 and 10.

(2) Based on recent purchases, diesel 12.5-metre two-door, low floor, air-conditioned Citybuses, each cost an average of $420,000. The State Transit Authority also purchases 12.5-metre two-door, low floor, air-conditioned buses which operate on compressed natural gas costing an average of $580,000 and the STA articulated buses cost approximately $700,000 each.

(3) The majority of buses constructed for bus operators are manufactured at bus body builders Volgren, Custom Coaches and Bustech. Bus chassis suppliers are mixed, with State Transit purchasing Volvo diesel bus chassis and Mercedes Benz bus chassis for its CNG bus purchases.

(4) Private operators were required to submit three written quotations from bus manufacturers. The State Transit Authority buses are tendered.

*7742 CHILDREN REPORTED AT RISK OF HARM OR NEGLECT—Ms Pru Goward asked the Minister for Community Services—

What percentage of children reported at risk of harm or neglect were the children of mothers who had their first child before the age of 20?Answer—The primary focus of information collected during a risk of harm report is detail relating to the






child⁄children at risk and the child protection risk factors that are present.Caseworkers aim to record all relevant details such as the age of the child and related persons. However, these details are often not known by the reporter at the time of the report to the Helpline. More accurate information will be collected for those cases that proceed to a Community Services Centre for further assessment. The information requested is not available in a reportable form.

*7743 SHOALHAVEN DISTRICT MEMORIAL HOSPITAL EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT—Mrs Shelley Hancock asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

What measures is the South Eastern Sydney Area Health Service taking to rectify the fact that one quarter of patients presenting at Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital emergency department were not treated within the recommended time limit?Answer—I am advised that during August 2009, 100% of the patients triaged as Category 1 were seen within benchmark timeframes at the Emergency Department at Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital. Triage Category 1 refers to the most seriously ill patients who require immediate assessment and treatment. During August 2009 there were 2634 Emergency Department presentations at the Hospital - 175 more than the same time last year. Despite this increase, just over 82% of patients were seen in the benchmark times across all triage categories

*7744 NOWRA TAFE—Mrs Shelley Hancock asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) Why were staff and students at Nowra TAFE promised upgraded and enhanced Visual Arts and Aboriginal Arts programs in 2006 when in 2009 the Government intends to downgrade these programs?

(2) Why will Aboriginal Arts students be denied the opportunity to advance into higher-level mainstream Arts and Media courses?

(3) How many teachers will lose their jobs or have their hours of teaching reduced as a result of the proposed changes?

(4) Why is it deemed necessary to demolish the J Block at Nowra TAFE which houses outstanding Arts facilities and teaching spaces?

Answer—(1) In 2007 staff and students at Nowra Campus were informed that the facilities for Fine Arts and

Aboriginal Arts programs would be upgraded. A new building at the Campus will provide high quality up to date facilities that meet the standards required for the delivery of TAFE Arts programs.

(2) Aboriginal Arts students at Nowra will have access to a broad range of Arts programs from Statements of Attainment to higher-level programs from Certificate II through to Certificate IV and then the mainstream Advanced Creative Fine Arts course. Pathways include but are not limited to a specialisation in Aboriginal Arts.

(3) The number of teaching hours required in 2010 for Arts programs at Nowra Campus is expected to be consistent with current full-time and part-time teaching hours, although it will depend on the level of student demand.

(4) Block J at Nowra TAFE is to be demolished following the identification of various maintenance issues that rendered the building beyond economical repair.

*7746 POLICE STATION IN THE CENTRAL SHOALHAVEN—Mrs Shelley Hancock asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) Considering previous representations from two Shoalhaven Local Area Commanders regarding the need to provide a 24-hour police station in the central Shoalhaven, what actions have been taken to plan for a new police station in this area?

(2) What is the Minister's response to the thousands of residents in the central Shoalhaven who have requested a police station in the central Shoalhaven?

Answer—






The operating hours of a police station is determined by the Commissioner with a view to providing maximum police coverage of the area to meet community needs. I am advised by the NSW Police Force that Nowra police station is open 24 hours.

*7747 ACUTE CARE MENTAL HEALTH BEDS—Mrs Shelley Hancock asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) What plans are in place to provide 12-14 acute care mental health beds at Shoalhaven Hospital which was a key initiative of the Clinical Services Plan 2006-2009 (SESIAHS)?

(2) Is the above plan now obsolete and if so, how many of its initiatives have been delivered?Answer—I am advised:(1) and (2) The Clinic Services Strategic Plan(2006-2009) is current and the following initiatives have been delivered:

• 20 bed Non Acute Mental Health Units at both Shellharbour and Sutherland Hospitals. • A Child and Adolescent Mental Health Day Unit at Shellharbour Hospital • A 14 bed Specialist Mental Health Inpatient Unit for Older People at the Wollongong Hospital.

Work is continuing on the following projects: • Planning for the inpatient Mental Health facility at Shoalhaven• Planning for the Psychiatric Emergency Care Centre at Wollongong Hospital is currently under

development with construction expected to commence late 2009.• Service Procurement and Project Definition Plans have been completed and submitted to the

Department of Health for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Inpatient Units at Sydney Children's Hospital and Shellharbour Hospital.

*7748 OUTSTANDING ACCOUNTS—Mrs Shelley Hancock asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

Regarding outstanding accounts by the South Eastern Sydney and Illawarra Area Health Service:(1) (a) How many accounts are currently outstanding by 30 to 59 days?

(b) What are the amounts owing for each account outstanding?(2) (a) How many accounts are currently outstanding by 60-89 days?

(b) What are the amounts owing for each account outstanding?(3) (a) How many accounts are currently outstanding by 90 days or more?

(b) What are the amounts owing for each account outstanding?Answer—(1) to (3) Paying bills on time is an ongoing process and the situation regarding the number and value of

invoices changes on a day-to-day basis. All Area Health Services are required to manage their budgets and pay creditors within established timeframes. Where that has not occurred, NSW Health and Health Support Services are assisting Area Health Services to improve their processes and meet the payment timeframes which have been set.Best practice protocols have been introduced across the State in order for Area Health Services' internal control practices to be strengthened, including:

• A dedicated telephone number for creditor enquiries;• Timely feedback to creditors in relation to their enquiries;• Health Service purchase orders to contain appropriate telephone contact numbers for supplier

enquiries;• A log of telephone enquiries to be maintained; and• Payment to suppliers is to occur within the stipulated payment terms.

*7749 RIGHT-HAND TURN INTO FLINDERS ROAD—Mrs Shelley Hancock asked the Minister for Roads—






Considering strong community concerns regarding the RTA's former intention to ban right-hand turns into Flinders Road from the Princes Highway, will the Government review this proposal?Answer—I am advised:The RTA is planning the upgrade of the Princes Highway between Kinghorne Street and Forest Road at South Nowra. As part of the planning process the RTA will consider community feedback received in relation to Flinders Road as part of the concept design process.

*7750 LINEAR ACCELERATOR FOR THE SHOALHAVEN—Mrs Shelley Hancock asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Is the provision of a linear accelerator in the Shoalhaven a high priority of the NSW Government?(2) Should the submission by the NSW Government to the Australian Government in relation to the

funding of regional cancer centres be unsuccessful, will the NSW Government commit to pursuing a linear accelerator in the Shoalhaven?

Answer—I am advised: (1) and (2) There are many requests for projects across the state and each year difficult choices have to

be made about which projects are undertaken within the available budget. Implementation of the most appropriate service configuration to enhance cancer services, including radiotherapy, in the Shoalhaven will be considered in relation to available resources.

*7751 AVOS ISSUED—Mr Chris Hartcher asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

In each of the years 2006 to 2008 inclusive, how may AVOs were issued by:(a) Brisbane Water Local Area Command;(b) Tuggerah Lakes Local Area Command?

Answer—Apprehended Violence Orders are issued by the courts, not the NSW Police Force. I suggest the Member direct his question to the Attorney General.

*7752 CONVICTION RATES—LOCAL COURTS—Mr Chris Hartcher asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

For each of the years 2006-07 and 2007-08, what was the conviction rate for persons appearing in:(a) Gosford Local Court;(b) Wyong Local Court;(c) Woy Woy Local Court?

Answer—I refer you to the NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research's annual report NSW Criminal Courts Statistics and the Chief Magistrate's Local Court Annual Review which are available on their respective websites.

*7753 MOBILE POLICE STATION—Mr Chris Hartcher asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) Does a mobile police station operate in Brisbane Water Local Area command?(2) If so:

(a) At which localities was it stationed at in 2007 and 2008?(b) How long was it based at each locality?(c) How many complaints were recorded at each locality?(d) How many sworn officers are based at the station and what rank is each officer?

Answer—






The NSW Police Force has advised me:(1) No. (2) N⁄A.

*7754 UPPER LACHLAN WOOD GUILD—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Premier, and Minister for the Arts—

(1) When will the Premier reply to my letter seeking assistance for the Upper Lachlan Wood Guild, dated 13 August 2008 (your reference EA1328918 - NREDB)?

(2) Given that on 12 June the Premier made a commitment that a reply would be provided prior to 30 June 2009, why has the Premier still not provided me with a reply?

(3) Will the Premier provide the Upper Lachlan Wood Guild with the requested grant of $31,363.20?(4) Has the Premier's office lost this correspondence and if so, would he like me to provide him with

another (the third to date) copy?Answer—(1) to (4) The Premier approved a grant of $5,000 to the Upper Lachlan Wood Guild from the 2008-2009

Rural and Regional Miscellaneous funding allocation. A cheque for $5,500 including GST was forwarded to the Guild on 30 June 2009. The cheque was presented for payment by the Guild on 22 July 2009.

*7755 NATIONAL MEDAL—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

Given that Mr J Knight of Gundagai faxed his application for a National Medal to the Ambulance Service of NSW on 15 July 2008 at 4.50 pm and that a receipt for the fax transmission was issued, will the Minister explain why Mr Knight has still not received his National Medal?Answer—I am advised:At the time Mr Knight's application was received it was standard practice to process all applications and order medals on an annual basis. This practice has recently been reviewed and will shortly change to every three months. Mr Knight's National Medal has been ordered by the Ambulance Service and it is expected to be received by the end of November 2009.

*7756 HORNSBY HOSPITAL—PROCEDURES ON CHILDREN—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) How many children are operated on for dental issues at Hornsby Hospital per month for 2008 and 2009 to date?

(2) (a) Do any children have ENT procedures?(b) How many for the same period?

(3) Where are these children recovered?(4) How many are recovered in the general Day Surgery area?(5) (a) Have all staff who look after children in Hornsby Hospital Day Surgery had paediatric training?

(b) If not, why not and when will they be trained?Answer—(1) In 2008, an average of 15 paediatric patients per month had dental procedures performed at Hornsby

Ku-ring-gai Hospital. To-date, in 2009, the average number per month is 10.(2) Yes. The average number of paediatric patients undergoing ENT procedures, per month, in 2008 was

18. To-date, in 2009, the average number per month is 17.(3) and (4) All Paediatric Day Only Surgery patients recover in the general Day Surgery area. If the

children require overnight stay they are transferred to the Paediatric Ward postoperatively.(5) Yes.






*7757 MENTAL HEALTH INTENSIVE CARE UNIT—HORNSBY HOSPITAL—Mrs Judy Hopwood asked the Minister for Local Government, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health)—

(1) When will the Mental Health Intensive Care Unit (MHITC) at Hornsby Hospital be officially reopened?

(2) Can patients and relatives be assured that the repairs will ensure the unit will be safe?(3) Where were staff allocated whilst the unit was being repaired and will they all be returned to the

MHITC?Answer—I am advised:(1) It is estimated that the Mental Health Intensive Care Unit will be fully operational again in late

November 2009. (2) The repairs being undertaken will ensure that the construction elements being included are at a

higher grade than those stipulated in the Health Facility Guidelines and Mental Health, Health Facility Guidelines, and will significantly improve both the quality of the building and the level of safety afforded to those who occupy it.

(3) Staff have been deployed to various mental health units and services in Northern Sydney Central Coast Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol Services. Some staff have taken annual leave. Staff will be repatriated to the Mental Health Intensive Care Unit.

*7759 NURSE REDUNDANCIES—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

How many nurses have accepted redundancies at Sutherland Hospital between January 2006 and January 2009?Answer—I am advised that total nursing numbers at Sutherland Hospital are higher in 2009 than in 2006.On 21 September 2009 the Director-General of NSW Health issued a directive to Chief Executives of Health Services reaffirming that clinical staff (except in cases where they may be occupying management or administrative positions) are not to be offered voluntary redundancy.

*7760 FEDERAL GOVERNMENT STIMULUS PACKAGE—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

In relation to the Federal government stimulus package:(1) Which schools in the Cronulla electorate have applied for funding?(2) What is the cost of each project?(3) What is the nature of each application?Answer—This information is available at the NSW Building the Education Revolution website: www.ber.nsw.gov.au

*7761 FLASHING SPEED SIGNS IN SCHOOL ZONES—Mr Malcolm Kerr asked the Minister for Roads—

In relation to government efforts to improve safety in school zones and the rollout of flashing signs enforcing speed limits in school zones:(1) Are there any flashing speed signs proposed for schools in the Cronulla electorate in the 2009-10

financial years?(2) If so, which schools?Answer—I am advised:(1) and (2) A list of schools with flashing light warnings is available on the Roads and Traffic Authority

website.

*7762 HOXTON PARK PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) What will Hoxton Park Public School be building under the Building Education Revolution






program?(2) How much will it cost?(3) How long will it take?Answer—(1) to (3) Under the Primary Schools for the 21st Century component of the Building Education

Revolution program, Hoxton Park Public School will receive new classroom facilities for $2.6 million and a new COLA for $400,000. These projects will be completed by 28 January 2011.Under the National School Pride component of the of the Building Education Revolution program, Hoxton Park Public School will receive $200,000 for works based on the school's condition assessment, as well as library refurbishments, a fitness lab, new floorings, and an upgrade to the school's canteen. These projects will be completed by 1 February 2010.

*7763 INGLEBURN NORTH PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) What will Ingleburn North Public School be building under the Building Education Revolution program?

(2) How much will it cost?(3) How long will it take?Answer—(1) to (3) Under the Primary Schools for the 21st Century component of the Building Education

Revolution program, Ingleburn North Public School will receive $850,000 for a new library. This work will be completed by 20 December 2010.Under the National School Pride component of the of the Building Education Revolution program, Ingleburn North Public School will receive $75,000 for works based on the school's condition assessment. These projects will be completed by 20 December 2009.

*7764 CASULA PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) What will Casula Public School be building under the Building Education Revolution program?(2) How much will it cost?(3) How long will it take?Answer—(1) to (3) Under the Primary Schools for the 21st Century component of the Building Education

Revolution program, Casula Public School will receive new administration facilities for $1,800,000 and a new library for $1,200,000. These works will be completed by 31 January 2011.Under the National School Pride component of the of the Building Education Revolution program, Casula Public School will receive $200,000 for a covered walkway, a power upgrade, and floor coverings. These works will be completed by 1 February 2010.

*7765 CURRAN PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) What will Curran Public School be building under the Building Education Revolution program?(2) How much will it cost?(3) How long will it take?Answer—(1) to (3) Under the Primary Schools for the 21 Century component of the Building Education

Revolution program, Curran Public School will receive new a new hall and Covered Outdoor Learning Area for $2,000,000. These works will be completed by 31 January 2011.Under the National School Pride component of the of the Building Education Revolution program, Curran Public School will receive $125,000 for a Covered Outdoor Learning Area, ball courts, a gable roof awning, computers, and removal of bitumen paths. These works will be completed by 20 December 2009.

*7766 GLENWOOD PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—






(1) What will Glenwood Public School be building under the Building Education Revolution program?(2) How much will it cost?(3) How long will it take?Answer—(1) to (3) Under the Primary Schools for the 21st Century component of the Building Education

Revolution program, Glenwood Public School will receive new classroom facilities for $1.7 million and a toilet upgrade for $300,000. These projects will be completed by 31 January 2011.Under the National School Pride component of the of the Building Education Revolution program, Glenwood Public School will receive $125,000 for works based on the school's condition assessment, as well as a refurbishment of bike racks, pipe replacement, and upgrades to toilets and flooring. These projects will be completed by 1 February 2010.

*7767 GREENWAY PARK PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) What will Greenway Park Public School be building under the Building Education Revolution program?

(2) How much will it cost?(3) How long will it take?Answer—(1) to (3) Under the Primary Schools for the 21st Century component of the Building Education

Revolution program, Greenway Park Public School will receive new classroom facilities for $3,029,000. These projects will be completed by 31 March 2011.Under the National School Pride component of the of the Building Education Revolution program, Greenway Park Public School will receive $200,000 for Interactive White Boards, communications facilities, curtains, a resurfacing of sports courts, and a staffroom kitchen. These projects will be completed by 1 February 2010.

*7768 LURNEA HIGH SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) What will Lurnea High School be building under the Building Education Revolution program?(2) How much will it cost?(3) How long will it take?Answer—(1) to (3) Under the National School Pride component of the of the Building Education Revolution

program, Lurnea High School will receive $200,000 for works based on the school's condition assessment, as well as the installation of a commercial kitchen. These works will be completed by 20 December 2009.

*7769 GUISE PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) What will Guise Public School be building under the Building Education Revolution program?(2) How much will it cost?(3) How long will it take?Answer—(1) to (3) Under the Primary Schools for the 21st Century component of the Building Education

Revolution program, Guise Public School will receive a new hall and Covered Outdoor Learning Area for $2,000,000. These projects will be completed by 31 January 2011.Under the National School Pride component of the of the Building Education Revolution program, Guise Public School will receive $125,000 for works based on the school's condition assessment as well as a drainage systems upgrade These projects will be completed by 20 December 2009.

*7770 SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS—Mr Wayne Merton asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

How many special needs students are there in the Baulkham Hills electorate?Answer—






There are 408 students with special needs attending Government schools in the Baulkham Hills electorate.

*7771 STIMULUS GRANTS—Mr Wayne Merton asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) How much of the Federal Government stimulus grants have been allocated to schools in the Baulkham Hills electorate?

(2) What are the details of any schools that have received grants, the amount of each grant, together with details of each of the projects for which funds have been allocated?

Answer—This information is available at the NSW Building the Education Revolution website: www.ber.nsw.gov.au

*7772 SPECIAL NEEDS TEACHERS—Mr Wayne Merton asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

How many special needs teachers were there in the Baulkham Hills electorate for each of the years 2005 to 2008 inclusive?Answer—The number of special needs teachers in NSW Government schools in the Baulkham Hills electorate for the following years was:

2005 - 45.9 full time equivalent positions2006 - 51.1 full time equivalent positions2007 - 50.6 full time equivalent positions2008 - 51.5 full time equivalent positions

*7774 TRANSPORT CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) What percentage premium does the Government regard as reasonable to pay to increase Australian employment on public transport construction projects as against using overseas consultants and equipment?

(2) Has the Government considered investigating the building of infrastructure projects with an emphasis on slower methods of construction using Australian made equipment rather than more sophisticated foreign made equipment?

(3) In calling tenders for public transport projects has the Government considered giving preference to tenderers who will use older equipment given a "make as new overhaul" using Australian mechanical workshops to increase local employment?

Answer—Information concerning NSW Government procurement is available at www.nswprocurement.com.au NSW Treasury is responsible for setting Procurement Policy and these questions should be directed to the Treasurer.

*7776 NSW METROPOLITAN STRATEGY—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) Has an "independent" expert been appointed to evaluate the Ku-ring-gai dwelling yields or projected new dwellings under the NSW Metropolitan Strategy?

(2) If so: (a) who is it;(b) when is their report due;(c) will the report be made public?

Answer—(1) The Department has commissioned an independent review of the reasonableness of the development

yield methodology adopted by Council as part of the work for the draft Ku-ring-gai Town Centres local environmental plan (LEP). This work will review the veracity of the data applied to the methodology, and comment on any risks that might be associated with the achievement of the Metropolitan Strategy Target.

(2) (a) The review is being conducted by Treadstone.






(b) The report is scheduled for completion in October 2009.(c) All records held by State Government agencies are available to the public under the conditions of the Freedom of Information Act (FOI Act).

*7777 RECLASSIFICATION—COUNCIL OWNED LAND—Mr Jonathan O'Dea asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

(1) What Planning Department or other requirements currently exist for Ku-ring-gai Council to consider reclassification of Council-owned land?

(2) What are the relevant expected timeframes?Answer—(1) The reclassification of land is a function of Council under the Local Government Act 1993. To

reclassify land from Community to Operational, Council is required to prepare a Local Environmental Plan under the provisions and procedures outlined in the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. I am advised that the Department of Planning has written to Council in relation to reclassification of Council owned sites which are being rezoned. In this correspondence it was indicated that Council should endeavour to work collaboratively with the Ku-ring-gai Planning Panel to achieve reclassification outcomes.

(2) This is a matter for Council to consider.

*7778 PARENTS AS TEACHERS—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

In relation to Parents As Teachers (PATs):(1) How many teachers were registered as PATs in the following years:

(a) 1988;(b) 1989;(c) 1998;(d) 1999;(e) 2008;(f) 2009?

(2) How much funding was provided for PAT programs in the years listed in (1)?(3) How much (in total) were the teachers registered as PATs paid by the Department of Education and

Training (DET) in the years listed in (1)?(4) How many PAT programs currently operate in NSW?(5) Will the Minister confirm that PATs will no longer be employed in their roles by October

(approximate) and that consultants will replace them?(6) How many consultants will replace the teachers employed as PATs?Answer—(1) (a) 0

(b) 0(c) 11(d) 11(e) 9(f) 8

(2) (a) 1988 - not applicable(b) (1989 - not applicable(c) 1998 - $1,163,000(d) 1999 - $1,203,000 (e) 2008 - $1,142,000(f) 2009 - $1,033,000

(3) Each Parents as Teachers consultant position was paid the salary commensurate with their level on the teacher⁄clerk salary scale. (a) 1988 - not applicable(b) 1999 - not applicable(c) to (f) In 1998, 1999, 2008 and 2009, each Parents as Teachers consultant position was paid the






salary commensurate with their level on the teacher⁄clerk salary scale.(4) In the 2009 a total of eight Parents as Teachers programs operate from NSW government schools.

There are additional Parents as Teachers programs being operated by other government and non government agencies in NSW.

(5) The Department's eight Parents as Teachers programs will be coming to an end at the end of the 2009 school year. The positions will be upgraded to a senior education officer early childhood position for each of the Department's 10 regions. The positions will support the Department of Education and Training's early childhood programs in schools. Currently the Parents as Teachers parenting programs provide a home visiting program for parents with children prenatal to age three. The eight officers in the current Parents as Teachers positions will be able to return to a teaching position for the commencement of the 2010 school year which is 27 January 2010.

(6) Ten positions will be established to provide one early childhood consultant position for each of the ten school regions.

*7779 STUDENT MIDWIFE POSITION—LEETON HOSPITAL—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

(1) Why has the Leeton Health Service Manager informed the Leeton branch of the Nurses Association that they are unable to proceed with recruitment for their student midwife position in Leeton Base Hospital?

(2) Given that there are 2 local registered nurses waiting to apply for the student midwife position, why has this request for advertising been refused by the Leeton Health Service Manager?

(3) Given that Charles Sturt University in Wagga has a successful nursing degree, and the Nurses Association was keen to advertise early for the usual Leeton Hospital student midwife position in time for the February 2010 university intake (as well as to ensure the student is eligible for Commonwealth Funding from CSU), what is the reason for the hold up?

(4) Has this position been cut from the hospital?(5) What is the annual salary for this position?Answer—(1) to (3) The Greater Southern Area Health Service recently announced that their Student Midwifery Program, which links learning with clearly identified theory and midwifery practice, would be reviewed to ensure that midwifery students participate in appropriate supervised clinical experience and settings. Given a review is underway it is not appropriate to proceed with recruitment for the position concerned. The timeline for the review process, to commence in October 2009, is anticipated to be 6-8 weeks.(4) No.(5) A student is paid at the rate for a Registered Nurse 1st to 8th year depending on the number of years of experience of the particular student.

*7780 GRIFFITH INTERMODAL TERMINAL—Mr Adrian Piccoli asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

In relation to the Griffith Intermodal Terminal:(1) In light of the train derailment on 28 May 2009 in Griffith, will the NSW Government consider

providing funding to Griffith City Council in order to carry out a comprehensive assessment of relevant sites for the relocation of the Griffith Intermodal Terminal?

(2) What is the total number of rail freight container movements through Griffith Intermodal Terminal for each financial year from 1995-1996 to 2008-2009 (to date)?

Answer—I am advised:(1) The Griffith City Council, Sydney Ports Corporation and NSW Transport & Infrastructure formed a

Project Control Group in 2008 to oversee a study evaluating a number of sites suitable for relocation of the existing intermodal terminal at Griffith. The cost of the study was co-funded by Sydney Ports Corporation and the Council, utilising a grant from the Department of State and Regional Development. The study identified two sites suitable for further evaluation for a relocated terminal.






A second study is now underway which is undertaking a thorough assessment of the two sites. Progression of the terminal relocation following completion of the second study is a matter for Griffith City Council.

(2) As the existing terminal is operated by a private operator this information is commercial in confidence.

*7781 COUNTRYLINK BUS SERVICE—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

In relation to the CountryLink bus service operating from Tweed to Casino:When is the current contract due to expire?Answer—I am advised:The contract for the CountryLink bus service operating from Tweed Heads to Casino will expire on 30 October 2010.

*7782 CRITERIA FOR PROVISION OF PET SCANNER—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—

In relation to the provision of a PET scanner in the Tweed electorate:(1) What was the criteria that made Lismore successful in its acquisition of a PET scanner?(2) What are the criteria for provision of a PET scanner:

(a) population density;(b) medical specialists?

Answer—I am advised:(1) Lismore Base Hospital does not have a PET scanner.(2) (a) A 2000 MSAC Review recommended that PET units be located with comprehensive cancer care

(major subspecialty surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology) and/or neurosciences services (neurosurgery, neurology); that are engaged in clinical studies; and that are located in a major teaching hospital.(b) A specialised workforce is required in order to operate the PET-CT unit and to report on the scans. Major tertiary hospitals sites are able to offer the appropriate clinical support services for PET technology and greater opportunities to ensure the recruitment and retention of a skilled workforce.

*7783 TEACHERS AT KINGSCLIFF TAFE—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

In relation to TAFE teachers currently employed at Kingscliff Tafe:(1) What is the number of full-time teachers employed at Kingscliff TAFE in the following years:

(a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

(2) What is the number of part-time teachers employed at Kingscliff TAFE in the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) year to date?

Answer—(1) The number of full-time teachers employed at Kingscliff TAFE in the following years:

(a) 2007 - 33;(b) 2008 - 34; (c) year to date - 33.

(2) The number of part-time teachers employed at Kingscliff TAFE in the following years: (a) 2007 - 85;(b) 2008 - 85;(c) year to date - 108.






*7784 BLUE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK—ANNIVERSARIES—Mr Michael Richardson asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) What activities have the NPWS planned to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Blue Mountains National Park, and the 10th anniversary of the World Heritage listing?

(2) What funds have the Government set aside to celebrate these anniversaries?Answer—I am advised:(1) A range of events have been organised by the NPWS, community and conservation organisations,

and community members to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Blue Mountains National Park.Events include a series of guided walks along the Prince Henry Cliff Track, the National Pass and the Rim of the Valley; open picnic days at Euroka near Glenbrook and the newly refurbished Wentworth Falls Picnic Area; and a Sunset Celebration event at Katoomba on 25 September.The Community Advisory Committee for the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area (GBMWHA) is planning a range of events to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the World Heritage listing. These include the official opening of the GBMWHA Exhibition Centre at Mount Tomah Botanic Garden, a culture camp and a public gathering on Saturday 20 November 2010.

(2) Direct financial support was allocated to various community activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Blue Mountains National Park, as well as for salary costs to deliver special Discovery Walks Talks and Tours.Planning for the 10th anniversary of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area listing, including funding, is underway.

*7785 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION LICENCES—Mr Michael Richardson asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

Why do the DECCW's environmental protection licences require that polluters monitor, rather than control, carbon emissions?Answer—The impacts of carbon emissions are quite different from other emissions. Most emissions have only local or regional impacts, and they must be controlled at source. In contrast, the impact of carbon emissions are not restricted to the local environment. It is the total of emissions that is important, and control at national and international levels has always been the Government's preferred approach.NSW is committed to the Australian Government's proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) as the principal mechanism for meeting national greenhouse gas reduction targets at least cost to the economy.Under the CPRS, carbon emissions will effectively be regulated by the Commonwealth via the CPRS cap. Emissions abatement for the majority of NSW carbon emissions will be determined by the targets set under the CPRS.In the interim, as part of the development approval process under Part 3A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, the Government asks proponents to estimate their carbon emissions and investigate potential abatement measures, offsets and opportunities for energy efficiency.

*7786 BAITING OF RATS AND RABBITS—Mr Michael Richardson asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce—

(1) How are baits being spread on the Broughton Island group to kill rats and rabbits?(2) What date has been set for the poisoning of rats on Lord Howe Island?Answer—I am advised:(1) The baits are spread by helicopter. (2) There are still planning and approval processes to be undertaken, including the public exhibition of

the draft eradication plan later this year, before a date for the rat eradication operation can be set.

*7787 ADDITIONAL DIALYSIS SHIFTS AT FORBES DIALYSIS UNIT—Mrs Jillian Skinner asked the Deputy Premier, Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, and Minister for Commerce representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, Minister for Health, Minister for the Central Coast, Vice President of the Executive Council—






Given the significant demand for the four working chairs in the Dialysis Unit in Forbes, meaning some patients are required to travel 708 kilometres per week to Orange Dialysis Unit for treatment, will additional dialysis shifts be provided at Forbes?Answer—The Member is referred to the Hansard record of the response provided by the former Minister for Health, the Hon John Hatzistergos MLC, to a question without notice on this matter in the Legislative Council on 8 September 2009, and to his supplementary answer provided on 10 September 2009.

*7788 TRANSFIELD SERVICES PTY LTD—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Minister for Roads—

(1) When subtracting road maintenance services, does the Government require that the subcontractor log and report to the Government what maintenance works are to be undertaken, where they are to be undertaken and how much they will cost?

(2) Are there any cases where Transfield Services Pty Ltd have recommended that works be undertaken in the Pittwater electorate yet have not proceeded?

(3) If the answer to question (2) is yes, what are the details of such cases?Answer—I am advised:(1) As a general rule, the RTA requires its contractors to provide routine reporting of what activities have

been undertaken over a reporting period. This includes planned maintenance and emergency works. Depending on the type of contract in place, the contractor is paid for services performed and reported at the agreed rates, or recovery of actual costs incurred in some instances.

(2) Transfield Services Pty Ltd has not provided road maintenance services to the RTA since 24 October 2008.

(3) Not Applicable.

*7789 BUILDING BETTER SCHOOLS PROGRAM—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Minister for Education and Training, and Minister for Women—

(1) Of the $2 billion "Building Better Schools Program" how much will schools in the Pittwater electorate receive?

(2) Which schools in the Pittwater electorate will receive this funding and how much will each school receive?

(3) Upon what criteria will funding be allocated to schools as a part of the "Building Better Schools Program"?

Answer—(1) Projects totalling $4,396,000 were announced as part of the 2007 Election Commitments.(2) Schools in the Pittwater electorate that will receive funding:

• Newport Public School - $3,200,000 for a Primary Facilities upgrade to be completed during Term 2 2010.

• Mona Vale Public School - $182,000 for a security fence which was completed on 17 June 2009 at a total cost of $284,667.27.

• Bilgola Plateau Public School - $182,000 for a security fence which was completed on 5 February 2009 at a total cost of $222,232.79.

• Avalon Public School - $182,000 for a security fence which will be completed 25 September 2009 at a total cost of $330,258.49.

• Pittwater High School $650,000 for a science lab upgrade which is anticipated to be completed by 1 October 2009 at an estimated total cost of $935,974.

(3) Funding for individual projects announced as Election Commitments in March 2007 are on an annual basis during the term of Government for funding in the State Budget. Newport Public School was announced to receive funding in the 2007⁄08 State Budget, and Mona Vale Public School, Avalon Public School, Bilgola Plateau Public School and Pittwater High School received funding in the 2008⁄09 Budget.

*7790 CUSTOMER COMPLAINTS STATISTICS—SYDNEY BUSES—Mr Rob Stokes asked the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) What was the total number of customer complaints received by Sydney Buses during: (a) 2006-2007;(b) 2007-2008;






(c) 2008-2009?(2) Of these complaints:

(a) How many were in relation to services operating throughout Contract Region 8?(b) What was the most common complaint received by Sydney Buses during each respective

period?Answer—I am advised:The State Transit Authority reports on customer complaints in its Annual Report as required by the relevant legislation.

*7791 WHITE BAY SHIP TERMINAL—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

In relation to the "temporary" passenger cruise ship terminal at White Bay:(1) Will the Government or other parties complete traffic modelling regarding the impact of increased

traffic volumes on major roads near the White Bay site, specifically Victoria Road?(2) If not, why?(3) If yes to (1), will these results be made public?(4) If yes to (1), what is the expected timeframe for the traffic modelling?Answer—(1) On 15 January 2009, Sydney Ports Corporation lodged an application for a new cruise passenger

terminal at White Bay, to replace the existing facility being relocated from Barangaroo. The Director-General of the Department of Planning issued his environmental assessment requirements for the project, in accordance with the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. These requirements include the need to undertake an assessment of road traffic impacts on the local and regional road networks. A full copy of the application and the environmental assessment requirements is available on the Department's website (www.planning.nsw.gov.au under "Major Project Register").Notwithstanding, progression of this application for a cruise passenger terminal at White Bay has been placed on hold, pending the outcomes of community consultation on the future of the Bays Precinct. As part of that consultation, the Government has sought community feedback and ideas on possible locations for such a terminal west of the Harbour Bridge. A decision on the future location of the new cruise passenger terminal will only be made following conclusion of the community consultation process. More information on this process can be found atwww.shapesydneysforeshore.com.au and http://thebaysprecinct.net.au

(2) Refer to (1).(3) Refer to (1).(4) Refer to (1).

*7792 BUDGET PAPER NO. 4—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Police, Minister for Lands, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

Regarding NSW Police Force infrastructure listed in the 2009-2010 Budget:In Budget Paper No. 4 at page 4-50 and 4-51 the following entries appear:

• Radio Communication - Phase 2 - Various• Fit Out of Vehicles for Additional Police Officers - Various• Mobile Data Terminal Upgrade - Various• Upgrade of Information Communications Technology Equipment - Various

What is the amount under each entry that has been allocated to the Oxley electorate?Answer—The NSW Police Force has advised me:Funding provided in the 2009-10 Budget for improvements to radio communications, mobile data terminals and information communications technology equipment are for statewide improvements to police systems. This funding is not allocated to specific Local Area Commands or electorates.

*7793 STRESS RELATED LEAVE—RTA—Mr Andrew Stoner asked the Minister for Roads—

In relation to stress or stress-related leave in the RTA:






(1) How many employees in the RTA took stress or stress-related leave in: (a) 2005-2006;(b) 2006-2007;(c) 2007-2008;(d) 2008-2009?

(2) What is the average number of stress-related leave hours per employee per year?(3) How many staff have accessed counselling services provided by the RTA in:

(a) 2005-2006;(b) 2006-2007;(c) 2007-2008;(d) 2008-2009?

(4) How many counselling sessions in total were held for employees by the RTA in: (a) 2005-2006;(b) 2006-2007;(c) 2007-2008;(d) 2008-2009?

Answer—I am advised:(1) and (2) The RTA does not record "stress" as a reason when recording sick leave.(3) and (4) Statistics are only available on a calendar year basis.


7794 GASTRIC BANDING IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS—Mr Richard Amery to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7795 PROVISIONAL DRIVING TESTS—ALBURY RTA OFFICE—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7796 FEDERAL GOVERNMENT HOUSING STIMULUS PACKAGE—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Housing, Minister for Western Sydney, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

7797 CHILDREN (PROTECTION AND PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY) ACT 1997—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

7798 UPDATED STATE PLAN—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

7799 STATE INFRASTRUCTURE STRATEGY—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

7800 WOOD SPECIAL COMMISSION OF INQUIRY—Ms Pru Goward to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Women—

7801 HOME BIRTHS—Ms Pru Goward to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7802 PLACEMENT OF SIBLINGS IN FOSTER CARE—Ms Pru Goward to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Women—

7803 RENAL SERVICES—HORNSBY HOSPITAL—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7804 GASTROENTERITIS AT HORNSBY HOSPITAL—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—






7805 CEILING INSULATION REBATE—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7806 RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

7807 ST IVES SHOWGROUND—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Lands—

7808 ICAC—REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL FUNDING—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

7809 KEY LEARNING AREAS—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7810 TOUR OF ABBOTSFORD PUBLIC SCHOOL BY PREMIER'S STAFF—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

7811 CHILDREN WITH AUTISM IN GOVERNMENT SCHOOLS—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7812 RELIEF OPERATOR—EMPLOYEE OR CONTRACTOR—Mr Greg Piper to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

7813 AREA HEALTH SERVICE INVOICING—Mr Greg Piper to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7814 PROVISION OF TREATMENT FOR OUTPATIENTS—Mr Greg Piper to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7815 POLICE VEHICLES—TWEED/BYRON LOCAL AREA COMMAND—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Minister for Police—

7816 INSPECTIONS BY OFFICE OF INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

7817 LAND TAX PAID—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

7818 PROTECTION OF SOUTH COAST BEACHES—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7819 REGIONAL FORESTRY AGREEMENTS—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7820 BULL MALLEE-WHITE MALLEE WOODLANDS—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7821 WARATAH PARK LEASE—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Lands—

7822 SEAGRASS FRIENDLY MOORINGS—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—

7823 SPEECH PATHOLOGIST—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—






7824 REGULATIONS APPLYING TO NSW ROAD USERS—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7825 DEPARTMENT OF STATE AND REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

7826 KEMPSEY COMMUNITY SERVICE CENTRE—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Women—


7827 YOUTH GANGS—Mr Richard Amery to ask the Minister for Police—

7828 FATIGUE REGULATIONS FOR DRIVERS OF HEAVY VEHICLES—Mr Richard Amery to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7829 HARDWOOD PLANTATIONS—Mr Steve Cansdell to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

7830 BUILDING THE EDUCATION REVOLUTION—ILUKA PUBLIC SCHOOL—Mr Steve Cansdell to ask the Minister for Education and Training—



7833 PROMOTION OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT—Mr Steve Cansdell to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

7834 PUBLIC SECTOR REFORM—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

7835 RENEWABLE ENERGY DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

7836 SCHOOL PERFORMANCE COMPARISONS—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

7837 ANTI-GRAFFITI ACTION TEAM—Mr Victor Dominello to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

7838 GRAFFITI STRATEGY TASKFORCE—Mr Victor Dominello to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

7839 GRAFFITI SOLUTIONS TASKFORCE—Mr Victor Dominello to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

7840 GRAFFITI SOLUTIONS PROGRAM—Mr Victor Dominello to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

7841 GRAFFITI REFERENCE GROUP—Mr Victor Dominello to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, and Vice President of the Executive Council—






7842 RAIL VANDALISM TASKFORCE—Mr Victor Dominello to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7843 TEACHERS EMPLOYED ON A LIMITED CASUAL BASIS—Ms Pru Goward to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7844 CASE PLAN FOR CHILDREN IN CARE—Ms Pru Goward to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Women—

7845 CHILDREN WITH INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES—Ms Pru Goward to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Women—

7846 COUNCIL PERFORMANCE REPORTING—Mr Kerry Hickey to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

7847 STAFFING AT CESSNOCK CENTRE—Mr Kerry Hickey to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7848 PERFORMANCE REPORTS INTO COUNCILS—Mr Kerry Hickey to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

7849 ROADS IN POKOLBIN—Mr Kerry Hickey to ask the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister for Science and Medical Research—

7850 WEST WALLSEND TRAM LINE—Mr Kerry Hickey to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

7851 SOLAR REBATE—Mr Kerry Hickey to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7852 CLOSURE OF FORESTS NSW PARKES NURSERY—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

7853 COWRA COMMUNITY SERVICES CENTRE—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Women—

7854 YASS DAM UPGRADE—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Water, and Minister for Regional Development—

7855 CORRESPONDENCE REGARDING A DISABLED STUDENT—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7856 BOVINE JOHNE’S DISEASE—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

7857 HORNSBY HOSPITAL REDUNDANCIES—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7858 ISSUING OF LAPTOP COMPUTERS—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7859 BLACKSPOT SITES—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7860 PEDESTRIAN TRAFFIC LIGHT PHASING—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7861 VENDING MACHINES IN SOUTH EASTERN AREA HEALTH SERVICE HOSPITALS—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—






7862 REMOVAL OF GRAFFITI ON CITYRAIL PROPERTY—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7863 BUILDING BETTER SCHOOLS PROGRAM FUNDING—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7864 CASULA HIGH SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7865 MACQUARIE FIELDS PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7866 PRESTONS PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7867 CAMPBELL HOUSE PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7868 MACQUARIE FIELDS HIGH SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7869 JOHN EDMONDSON HIGH SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7870 ILLEGAL DISCHARGE OF SEWAGE—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—

7871 TAXI ADVISORY COMMITTEE—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7872 ALLOCATION OF COUNCIL AREAS—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

7873 CONDOBOLIN HIGH SCHOOL—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7874 CASUALDIRECT—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7875 INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7876 POLICE RESOURCES—TWEED-BYRON LAC—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Minister for Police—

7877 REGISTERED SEX OFFENDERS—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Minister for Police—

7878 SOLAR ENERGY RESEARCH—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister for Science and Medical Research—

7879 HAZARD REDUCTION BURNING—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

7880 ADVANCE NOTICE OF HAZARD REDUCTION BURNING—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7881 SEWAGE CONNECTION CHARGES—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Water, and Minister for Regional Development—

7882 HOME DIALYSIS—Mrs Jillian Skinner to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7883 CLEANING IN HOSPITALS—Mrs Jillian Skinner to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7884 CAMDEN OBESITY CLINIC—Mrs Jillian Skinner to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7885 LAND ORIGINALLY PURCHASED FOR MOTORWAY—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—






7886 NSW HOT WATER SYSTEM REBATE—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7887 STATE ROADS—MID NORTH COAST—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7888 DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING DEVELOPMENT IN TAREE—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Housing, Minister for Western Sydney, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

7889 CLEANING OF GUTTERS—Mr Ray Williams to ask the Minister for Housing, Minister for Western Sydney, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

7890 RURAL ROADS AND FIRE TRAILS—Mr Ray Williams to ask the Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

*7891 CHARGES ON RETIREMENT VILLAGE RESIDENTS—Mr Ray Williams asked the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

Given many retirement village residents currently have to pay payroll tax, levied on retirement village residents in their recurring charges by their village operators who have been absorbed by large interstate organisations, when will this unfair tax imposed on pensioners and⁄or self-funded retirees, who cannot afford such imposts, be removed?Answer—The issue regarding payroll tax should be directed to the Hon. Eric Roozendaal MLC, Treasurer.


7892 NIGHTRIDE BUS SERVICES—Mr Richard Amery to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7893 EMPLOYMENT FUNDING FOR BUSINESSES—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

7894 STIMULUS PACKAGE FUNDING—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7895 SHOALHAVEN COUNCIL SUPERANNUATION CONTRIBUTIONS—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

7896 OBJECTIONS TO LAND VALUATIONS—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

7897 RENT CHARGED TO SURF CLUBS—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Lands—

7898 IMPACT OF TENURE—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—

7899 MANLY WHARF—Mr Mike Baird to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—

7900 RAYMOND TERRACE POLICE STATION TENDER—Mr Craig Baumann to ask the Minister for Police—

7901 AMBULANCE NUMBERS—Mr Craig Baumann to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—






7902 COST OF HIRING/LEASING CARAVANS—Mr Craig Baumann to ask the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Citizenship, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

7903 PUBLIC HOUSING BUDGET—PORT STEPHENS—Mr Craig Baumann to ask the Minister for Housing, Minister for Western Sydney, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

7904 PUBLIC HOUSING MAINTENANCE EXPENDITURE—Mr Craig Baumann to ask the Minister for Housing, Minister for Western Sydney, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

7905 PUBLIC HOUSING—PORT STEPHENS ELECTORATE—Mr Craig Baumann to ask the Minister for Housing, Minister for Western Sydney, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

7906 RTA INSPECTIONS OF MOTORCYCLES—Mr Craig Baumann to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7907 HOT WATER SYSTEM REBATE—Mr Craig Baumann to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7908 MEDICAL PRACTITIONER SERVICES—TOMAREE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL—Mr Craig Baumann to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7909 HENDRA VIRUS—Mr Peter Besseling to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

7910 "GREEN REPORT" INTO CENTRAL SCHOOLS—Mr Peter Besseling to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7911 RECREATIONAL FISHING LICENCES—Mr Steve Cansdell to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

7912 LICENSED PREMISES INFRINGEMENT NOTICES—Mr Steve Cansdell to ask the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

7913 YOUTH INFRINGEMENT NOTICES—Mr Steve Cansdell to ask the Minister for Police—

7914 CLARENCE/COFFS LOCAL AREA COMMAND BUDGET—Mr Steve Cansdell to ask the Minister for Police—

7915 RENEWABLE ENERGY—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7916 INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS POWERS—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

7917 MR BOB ELLIS—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

7918 CYCLEWAYS—Mr Victor Dominello to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7919 DENTAL SERVICES—Mr Victor Dominello to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7920 RYDE DRUG, ALCOHOL AND GAMBLING SERVICE—Mr Victor Dominello to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7921 RATIO OF FEMALE TO MALE ENROLMENTS—Ms Pru Goward to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7922 BUNGONIA QUARRY AND HILLTOP RIFLE RANGE—Ms Pru Goward to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

7923 JOINT INVESTIGATIVE RESPONSE TEAM—Ms Pru Goward to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Women—






7924 FUNDING TO PRIMARY SCHOOLS—Mr Kerry Hickey to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7925 PENSIONERS WATER REBATE—Mr Kerry Hickey to ask the Minister for Water, and Minister for Regional Development—

7926 TEACHING STAFF RETIREMENTS—Mr Kerry Hickey to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7927 WATER BALLOT—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Water, and Minister for Regional Development—

7928 FORESTS NSW RESEARCH—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

7929 HEALTH CORRESPONDENCE—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7930 QUANDIALLA POLICE STATION—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Police—

7931 HORNSBY MOTOR REGISTRY—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7932 NSW POLICE EXPENDITURE—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Police—

7933 HORNSBY RAILWAY STATION—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

7934 CEILING INSULATION REBATE—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7935 KURNELL DESALINATION PLANT—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Water, and Minister for Regional Development—

7936 PARRAMATTA TO ROUSE HILL BUS TRANSITWAY—Mr Wayne Merton to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7937 ADDITIONAL BUSES FOR M2 SERVICE—Mr Wayne Merton to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7938 ALCOHOL ON PARTY BUSES—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

7939 EXPERIMENTS ON ANIMALS IN NSW—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

7940 PARTY BUSES—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7941 JUVENILE CRIME DIVERSION—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Volunteering, Minister for Youth, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Veterans' Affairs—

7942 GENERAL COUNSEL OF NSW MARITIME—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—

7943 NSW MARITIME WHISTLEBLOWER—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—

7944 LEGAL COSTS—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—

7945 OVERHEAD TRAFFIC LIGHTS—TURRAMURRA—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—






7946 AUDIT OF DOCUMENTS—REVIEW OF DWELLING YIELDS—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

7947 NATIONAL BROADBAND NETWORK—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

7948 SYDNEY DUST STORM—PUBLIC HEALTH WARNINGS—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7949 PHYSICAL AND SEXUAL ASSAULTS—JUVENILE JUSTICE CENTRES—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Volunteering, Minister for Youth, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Veterans' Affairs—

7950 DEPARTMENT-OWNED LAND AT STANHOPE GARDENS—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7951 SCHOOL STUDENT TRANSPORT SCHEME—Mr Greg Piper to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7952 WOMEN'S REFUGES—Mr Greg Piper to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Women—

7953 WOMEN'S REFUGES—Mr Greg Piper to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Women—

7954 MAMMOGRAMS AT TWEED HOSPITAL—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7955 LEGAL PROCEEDINGS AGAINST TWEED HOSPITAL—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

*7956 CONTROLLED BURNING—TWEED ELECTORATE—Mr Geoff Provest asked the Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

(1) How much controlled burning has taken place in the Tweed electorate in the previous 12 months to assist in the prevention of what is shaping up to be a bad bush fire season?

(2) What was the total area that was controlled in the Tweed electorate?Answer—(1) and (2) The hazard reduction management system from which records are drawn only allows

statistics based on local government areas and not by electorates. Over the last 12 months (6th October 2008 to 6th October 2009) there have been 16 hazard reduction activities completed within the Tweed local government area, of which nine were burning activities. During the 2008⁄09 reporting year there were 22 hazard reduction activities completed within the Tweed local government area of which eight were burning activities.

7957 COST OF PROPERTIES—NORTH-WEST RAIL CORRIDOR—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

7958 AMBULANCE RESPONSE TIMES—Mrs Jillian Skinner to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7959 DATA RECOVERY PLAN—Mrs Jillian Skinner to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7960 EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT BEDS AT NEPEAN HOSPITAL—Mrs Jillian Skinner to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7961 CO2 EMISSIONS—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7962 MONA VALE POLICE STATION—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Police—






7963 MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT SERVICES—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7964 INFRINGEMENT NOTICES FOR UNDERAGE DRINKING—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

7965 STRATEGIC BUS CORRIDORS—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7966 SYDNEY FERRIES PASSENGER JOURNEYS—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7967 USE OF "E-BIKES"—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Police—

7968 USE OF “E-BIKES”—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7969 UNUSED RAIL CORRIDORS—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7970 TOILET FACILITIES FOR TRAVELLERS—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—


7971 REPAIR OF NSW POLICE VEHICLES—Mr Richard Amery to ask the Minister for Police—

7972 HAZARD REDUCTION IN ALBURY ELECTORATE—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

7973 RESPITE ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES IN ALBURY ELECTORATE—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

7974 LANDSCAPING FOR THE HUME FREEWAY AT ALBURY—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7975 RECTIFICATION WORKS FOR THE ALBURY WODONGA NATIONAL HIGHWAY PROJECT (AWNHP)—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7976 ACCOMMODATION SERVICES IN ALBURY—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

7977 LORD HOWE ISLAND—Ms Gladys Berejiklian to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7978 CEILING INSULATION REBATE—Mr Steve Cansdell to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

7979 PEAT ISLAND COTTAGES—Mr Andrew Constance to ask the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

7980 LAND TAX REVENUE—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

7981 FUNDING FOR RESPITE BEDS—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

7982 GOVERNMENT BUREAUCRACY—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—






7983 HAZARD REDUCTION BURNING—Mr Victor Dominello to ask the Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Small Business, and Minister for Rural Affairs—

7984 SCHOOL COUNSELLORS—Mr Victor Dominello to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7985 TICKET VENDING MACHINES—Mr Victor Dominello to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

7986 PPP/RTO FUNDING—Mr Thomas George to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7987 FAMILIES FIRST UNIVERSAL HOME VISITING PROGRAM—Ms Pru Goward to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7988 HOMELESS WOMEN—Ms Pru Goward to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Women—

7989 VISITS TO FOSTER CARERS—Ms Pru Goward to ask the Minister for Community Services, and Minister for Women—

7990 BEHAVIOUR SCHOOL OPTIONS—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

7991 CLAIMS ON INSURANCE—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Fair Trading, Minister for Citizenship, and Minister Assisting the Premier on the Arts—

7992 NORTHERN BEACHES HOSPITAL—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

7993 MINISTERIAL OFFICE STAFF—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

7994 DRAFT CENTRES POLICY—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

7995 METROPOLITAN STRATEGY—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

7996 DELIVERY OF INFRASTRUCTURE—Mr Brad Hazzard to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

7997 ADDITIVES IN FOOD—Mr Kerry Hickey to ask the Minister for Juvenile Justice, Minister for Volunteering, Minister for Youth, and Minister Assisting the Premier on Veterans' Affairs—

7998 FORESTS NSW LOGGING AGREEMENTS—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

7999 CITYRAIL—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

8000 SPEECH PATHOLOGIST IN YASS—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

8001 OUTREACH TEACHER—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

8002 BREASTSCREEN STAFF SHORTAGE—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

8003 NIGHTRIDE BUS SERVICES—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

8004 PROVISION OF SAFE CYCLEWAYS—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

8005 SUTHERLAND HOSPITAL—VOLUNTARY REDUNDANCIES—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

8006 REPORTED SEX OFFENDERS—Mr Malcolm Kerr to ask the Minister for Police—






8007 AUSTRAL PUBLIC SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

8008 GLENFIELD PARK SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

8009 HURLSTONE AGRICULTURE HIGH SCHOOL—Dr Andrew McDonald to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

8010 CONSERVATION OF REYNOLDS COTTAGE—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

8011 SAFETY—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

8012 CREDIT CARD “SKIMMING” IN TAXIS—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

8013 WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT IN ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

8014 AMENDMENTS TO CODES SEPP—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

8015 RAILWAY STATION STAFFING—Ms Clover Moore to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

8016 LEGAL BRANCH—NSW MARITIME—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—

8017 ALIKAT PRESCHOOL—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

8018 TEACHER NUMBERS—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

8019 DEMOUNTABLE CLASSROOMS—Mr Barry O'Farrell to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

8020 AUSTRALIAN TERTIARY ADMISSIONS RANK (ATAR)—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

8021 REGIONAL TOURISM FUNDING—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister for Science and Medical Research—

8022 NARRANDERA FISHERIES RESEARCH STATION—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

8023 STATE-WIDE EYESIGHT PRESCHOOLER SCREENING (STEPS)—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

8024 INDIGENOUS AFFAIRS—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

8025 REPORTABLE SEX OFFENDERS—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Minister for Housing, Minister for Western Sydney, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

8026 BLUE MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

8027 STATE PLAN COMMUNITY CONSULTATION FORUMS—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—






8028 CLIMATE CHANGE FUND—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

8029 CONFLICTS OF INTEREST—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

8030 SWOOPING MAGPIES—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

8031 POLICE ASSISTANCE TO FIND ACCOMMODATION—Mr Greg Smith to ask the Minister for Police—

8032 NORTHERN BEACHES BUS PATRONAGE—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

8033 REPLACEMENT BUSES FOR MONA VALE BUS DEPOT—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

8034 TRAVEL TO CBD BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

8035 DSRD INTERNATIONAL OFFICES IN CHINA—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

8036 MANNING BASE HOSPITAL—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

8037 RESTRUCTURE OF RURAL LANDS PROTECTION BOARDS—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

20 OCTOBER 2009(Paper No. 159)

8038 FORENSIC TESTING FOR COURT CASES—Mr Greg Aplin to ask the Minister for Police—

(1) Is the Minister aware that the Albury Local Court magistrate released on bail an accused person who was involved in a house invasion in July 2009 resulting in two people sustaining knife wounds and the homeowner being so traumatised she will not return to her home?

(2) Is the Minister further aware that the magistrate was forced into granting bail because of extended delays in processing DNA evidence for the case?

(3) Is the minister also aware that the same accused person was already in breach of a previous bond for violent behaviour and was described by the magistrate as having an appalling record?

(4) When did the forensic department receive the evidence required for testing from the Albury Local Area Command?

(5) Why has it taken so long to test the evidence?(6) When will the evidence be tested and returned so that the court case can proceed?(7) What is the benchmark turn around time for DNA testing of evidence?(8) Is it a manpower, funding or technical issue that causes these delays?

8039 PEOPLE ON PAROLE—Mr Craig Baumann to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

How many people are listed as being on parole in the following postcodes:(a) Anna Bay, Bobs Farm (2316);(b) Fern Bay (2295);(c) Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay (2315);






(d) Salt Ash, Medowie Fullerton Cove Oyster Cove (2318);(e) Karuah, Tea Gardens, Hawks Nest (2324);(f) Raymond Terrace, Heatherbrae (2324);(g) Tomago, Hexham (2322);(h) Lemon Tree Passage, Tanilba Bay (2319);(i) Mayfield, Warabrook (2304);(j) North Arm Cove (2324);(k) Salamander Bay (2317)?

8040 PUBLIC HOUSING PROPERTIES—Mr Craig Baumann to ask the Minister for Housing, Minister for Western Sydney, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

(1) How many one-bedroom public housing properties are located in the following postcodes: (a) Anna Bay, Bobs Farm (2316);(b) Fern Bay (2295);(c) Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay (2315);(d) Salt Ash, Medowie Fullerton Cove Oyster Cove (2318);(e) Karuah, Tea Gardens, Hawks Nest (2324);(f) Raymond Terrace, Heatherbrae (2324);(g) Tomago, Hexham (2322);(h) Lemon Tree Passage, Tanilba Bay (2319);(i) Mayfield, Warabrook (2304);(j) North Arm Cove (2324);(k) Salamander Bay (2317)?

(2) How many two-bedroom public housing properties are located in the following postcodes: (a) Anna Bay, Bobs Farm (2316);(b) Fern Bay (2295);(c) Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay (2315);(d) Salt Ash, Medowie Fullerton Cove Oyster Cove (2318);(e) Karuah, Tea Gardens, Hawks Nest (2324);(f) Raymond Terrace, Heatherbrae (2324);(g) Tomago, Hexham (2322);(h) Lemon Tree Passage, Tanilba Bay (2319);(i) Mayfield, Warabrook (2304);(j) North Arm Cove (2324);(k) Salamander Bay (2317)?

(3) How many three-bedroom public housing properties are located in the following postcodes: (a) Anna Bay, Bobs Farm (2316);(b) Fern Bay (2295);(c) Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay (2315);(d) Salt Ash, Medowie Fullerton Cove Oyster Cove (2318);(e) Karuah, Tea Gardens, Hawks Nest (2324);(f) Raymond Terrace, Heatherbrae (2324);(g) Tomago, Hexham (2322);(h) Lemon Tree Passage, Tanilba Bay (2319);(i) Mayfield, Warabrook (2304);(j) North Arm Cove (2324);(k) Salamander Bay (2317)?

(4) How many four or more bedroom public housing properties are located in the following postcodes: (a) Anna Bay, Bobs Farm (2316);(b) Fern Bay (2295);(c) Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, Fingal Bay (2315);(d) Salt Ash, Medowie Fullerton Cove Oyster Cove (2318);(e) Karuah, Tea Gardens, Hawks Nest (2324);(f) Raymond Terrace, Heatherbrae (2324);(g) Tomago, Hexham (2322);(h) Lemon Tree Passage, Tanilba Bay (2319);(i) Mayfield, Warabrook (2304);(j) North Arm Cove (2324);(k) Salamander Bay (2317)?






8041 FORMER STEELWORKS SITE AT MAYFIELD—Mr Craig Baumann to ask the Minister for Commerce, Minister for Tourism, Minister for the Hunter, and Minister for Science and Medical Research—

(1) When the Government ordered BHP Billiton to carry out remediation works on its former steelworks site at Mayfield, what was the estimated cost of the remediation works?

(2) Did the Government receive money from BHP Billiton with regards to the remediation works?(3) If so:

(a) How much was given to the Government by BHP Billiton?(b) Has all that money been expended?

(4) If not, how and when will it be expended into the future?(5) Is any part of the $15 million allocated by the NSW Government in the 2009-10 State Budget

allocated to the remediation at the Intertrade Industrial Park on former BHP steelworks site at Mayfield funded by BHP Billiton?

8042 BETTER SERVICES AND VALUE TASKFORCE—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

In relation to the Better Services and Value Taskforce:Given your advice a process is underway to select an independent member (Question 7646), when will the independent member be selected and announced?

8043 LIDDELL SOLAR POWER STATION—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

In relation to the Liddell Solar Power Station:Given your advice of an extension to the Liddell High Temperature Solar Thermal Power Station (Question 6370), what is the current progress of construction of the extension and what is the completion date?

8044 2008 WORKFORCE PROFILE—Mr Peter Debnam to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

In relation to the 2008 Workforce Profile:Given your advice the 2008 Workforce Profile is available on the Department of Premier and Cabinet website (Question 7579) and the 2008 Workforce Profile would be available by 30 June 2009 (Question 5167):(1) Is the 2008 Workforce Profile Snapshot Report the report to which your answer to Question 7579

referred?(2) Will the Premier post the entire 2008 Workforce Profile Report on the NSW Department of Premier

and Cabinet website?

8045 COOMA-MONARO SHIRE COUNCIL LEP—Mr Chris Hartcher to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

What is the status of the Cooma-Monaro Shire Council Local Environmental Plan?

8046 LOCAL INFRASTRUCTURE FUND—Mr Chris Hartcher to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

In her responses to Questions on Notice at the Budget Estimates 2009-2010, the Minister for Local Government suggested that the following questions should be directed to you:(1) With respect to the budget announcement that the Government would establish a $200 million Local

Infrastructure Fund, what is the source of the $200 million required for the fund?(2) Will you guarantee that no part of the funding relates to section 94 levies for growth centres?(3) In the light of the impact of cost shifting on local government of $412 million in 2006-2007, as

estimated by the NSW Local Government and Shires Association, why does the Local Infrastructure Fund not even reach the half way mark of cost shifting?

(4) Why is the money from the Local Infrastructure Fund being loaned to councils rather than being the subject of NSW government grants?

(5) Why are there timing constraints in relation to funds made available from the Local Infrastructure Fund?

(6) Why is funding from this program being targeted towards high growth areas rather than across the






board?

8047 DISTRIBUTION OF PAMPHLETS/LEAFLETS—Mr Chris Hartcher to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) Do people wishing to distribute pamphlets/leaflets on or near railway stations have to obtain a permit through Chesterton International Property Consultants to do so?

(2) If so, when did this requirement come into force?(3) Why was the requirement introduced?(4) What is the procedure necessary to obtain a permit?(5) What is the cost of obtaining a permit?(6) Are Members of Parliament exempt from this requirement?

8048 SPEARPOINT IRRIGATION—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Water, and Minister for Regional Development—

(1) Under which legislation and regulation is the use of spear points to extract water from bores regulated?

(2) When did the legal requirement for spearpoints to be registered come into effect?(3) Was there a period of grace extended to users to allow this registration and if so, on what date did it

expire? (4) Has the Office of Water recently conducted inspections in the Port Stephens area, issuing fines for

the use of spearpoints, which method has been in use at these locations for some 30 years?(5) As all of the people in the Port Stephens area fined under this law were unaware of the requirement,

will the Minister inform me as to what measures the Office of Water or its predecessors took to inform the community?

(6) How many fines were issued?(7) Of these, how many had been using spearpoints for more than ten years?(8) Why are the operators of tourism businesses, in the approach to the peak holiday season, being told

to close their source of water when they are unable to have their spearpoints registered and obtain a water allocation?

8049 LACHLAN VALLEY RAILWAY—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) Given the Minister's 6 October statement of "in principal" support for the Lachlan Valley Railway's project to operate and control the Blayney-Cowra-Demondrille and Koorawatha-Greenethorpe lines and his request to the Rail Infrastructure Corporation to assist the LVR, will he provide a dedicated liaison officer to provide this assistance?

(2) Are reports on the condition of the Blayney-Cowra-Demondrille and Koorawatha-Greenethorpe lines available?

(3) If so, where can they be obtained or can the Minister provide me with a copy?

8050 DISABILITY HOME IN COWRA—Ms Katrina Hodgkinson to ask the Minister for Ageing, Minister for Disability Services, and Minister for Aboriginal Affairs—

(1) With reference to the Minister's 8 October announcement of 640 specialist accommodation and support places, will five of these be located in Cowra?

(2) What is the target completion date for the opening of this new accommodation?(3) Will the service be restricted to short-term respite care or will it also be open to long-term

accommodation for disabled adults, whose parents are no longer able to care for them?(4) Has the Minister identified a service provider?

8051 PRE-PREPARED FOOD—HORNSBY HOSPITAL—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health—

In relation to pre-prepared food and laundry services at the Hornsby Hospital:(1) What is the total budget for pre-prepared food at Hornsby Hospital?(2) Who is the current contractor for food and laundry services?(3) When was this contractor awarded and when will the contract expire?(4) Where are the contractors operations based?

8052 SPECIAL NEEDS STUDENTS—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

In relation to special needs students in the Hornsby electorate:






(1) What is the total number of special needs students in the Hornsby electorate?(2) What is the total number of special needs teachers in the Hornsby electorate in the following years:

(a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) 2009?

8053 LICENSED PREMISES INFRINGEMENT NOTICES—Mrs Judy Hopwood to ask the Minister for Gaming and Racing, and Minister for Sport and Recreation—

In relation to infringement notices for licensed premises in the Hornsby electorate:(1) How many infringement notices have been issued to licensed clubs in the Hornsby electorate in the

following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) 2009 to date?

(2) How many infringement notices have been issued to licensed hotels in the Hornsby electorate in the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) 2009 to date?

(3) How many infringement notices have been issued to licensed bottle shops in the Hornsby electorate in the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) 2009 to date?

(4) How many infringement notices have been issued to licensed restaurants in the Hornsby electorate in the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) 2009 to date?

8054 M2 AND F3 LINK—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) What is the current status of the proposal to link the M2 and F3 by a new section of road?(2) What funding was promised for this project from:

(a) the NSW Government;(b) the Commonwealth Government?

(3) What funding is still available from: (a) the NSW Government;(b) the Federal Government?

8055 REDUCTION IN ADVERTISING EXPENDITURE—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

Given your advice that the Government is committed to cutting its expenditure on advertising in the 2008-09 financial year by 25% from the level of the 2007-08 financial year (Question 7387):(1) Was the 25% reduction target met?(2) To what level was advertising expenditure reduced in 2008-09?

8056 FORMER ST IVES VEGETATION TIP SITE—Mr Jonathan O'Dea to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

Which of your Ministers is responsible for answering the following questions in relation to the operation of the former St Ives vegetation tip site off Mona Vale Road given the answers of the Minister for Lands and the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment to written Questions 7314 and 7266 (respectively) was that the other was responsible:(1) How often has the pumping station, which collects leachate effluent from the tip and returns it to

ponds above the site, broken down in the last five years?(2) What monitoring is in place to ensure effluent from the site is not leaching into the Middle Harbour

headwaters catchment, particularly when the pump breaks down and during heavy rain periods?






(3) Is there any evidence that the leachate has bypassed the pumping station and entered into the Middle Harbour Creek system?

(4) What measures are in place to ensure the leachate does not enter the system?(5) What controls are in place to ensure the holding ponds at the site do not become a breading ground

for mosquitos?(6) Has approval ever been granted by the Government for the excavation works on the site which now

contains the former vegetation tip?(7) Are there plans to connect the area to Sydney Water's sewer system?(8) If not, why not, given the potential for leachate to enter the Middle Harbour headwaters catchment?

8057 HSC RANKINGS—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

Given that all NSW HSC students are given a school-based ranking on a subject-by-subject basis which is calculated from their Year 12 exams and assessment tasks, with number 1 being the best performed student:(1) After HSC results are available, is 50% of the highest school-based HSC result for each individual

subject given to the number 1 ranked student, even if this student scored poorly in the actual exam?(2) Is this DET policy for all NSW schools or is it enforced on a school-by-school basis?(3) Which document contains this policy?

8058 BUDGET PAPER NO. 4—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Housing, Minister for Western Sydney, and Minister Assisting the Minister for Transport—

Regarding Housing infrastructure listed in the 2009-2010 Budget:In Budget Paper No. 4 at page 4-74 and 4-75 the following entries appear:

• Administrative Assets - IT Projects - Various• Crisis Accommodation - Various• Crisis Accommodation Asset Improvement - Various• Nation Building - Economic Stimulus Plan Stage 1 - New Supply - Various• Nation Building - Economic Stimulus Plan Stage 2 - New Supply - Various• Office Accommodation and Administrative Assets - Various• Social Housing - New Supply - Various• Social Housing Asset Improvements (includes New Supply Under Nation Building - Economic

Stimulus Plan) - Various• Crisis Accommodation - Various• Nation Building - Economic Stimulus Plan Stage 1 - New Supply - Various• Social Housing - New Supply - Various

What is the amount under each entry that has been allocated to the Murrumbidgee electorate?

8059 PERMANENT TEACHING POSITIONS—Mr Adrian Piccoli to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

In relation to permanent teaching positions:(1) Given that an Internet search of the Jobs@DET website on 14 September 2009 (https:⁄

⁄www.det.nsw.edu.au⁄jobs⁄Enquiry) found only 212 positions available for teaching across NSW, and just 11 in the Riverina, could the Minister please explain why children in NSW Government schools are regularly missing classes due to an acute lack of teachers?

(2) Is every vacant teaching position in NSW Government schools placed on the Jobs@DET website?(3) If no to (2), why not?(4) How many teaching positions in NSW Government schools were available⁄vacant⁄advertised on

Jobs@DET in: (a) 2006;(b) 2007;(c) 2008;(d) 2009?

(5) How many positions in NSW Government schools were successfully filled in: (a) 2006;(b) 2007;(c) 2008;(d) 2009?






8060 LIVESTOCK MOVEMENTS—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Minister for Education and Training representing the Minister for Primary Industries, Minister for Mineral Resources, Minister for State Development—

What is the total number of inspections that have been carried out on livestock movement in the Tweed electorate since the removal of manned checkpoints 18 months ago?

8061 CAR HOON CHARGES—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Deputy Premier, and Minister for Health representing the Attorney General, Minister for Industrial Relations, and Vice President of the Executive Council—

How many people in the Tweed electorate have been charged under the car hoon laws, introduced in 2008 in:

(a) 2008;(b) year to date?

8062 LICENSED PREMISES INFRINGEMENT NOTICES—Mr Geoff Provest to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

In relation to infringement notices for licensed premises in the Tweed:(1) How many infringement notices have been issued to licensed clubs in the Tweed electorate in the

following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) Year to date?

(2) How many infringement notices have been issued to licensed hotels in the Tweed electorate in the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) Year to date?

(3) How many infringement notices have been issued to licensed bottle shops in the Tweed electorate in the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) Year to date?

(4) How many infringement notices have been issued to licensed restaurants in the Tweed electorate in the following years: (a) 2007;(b) 2008;(c) Year to date?

8063 MEDIA UNIT STAFF—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

(1) How many people work in the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water media unit?(2) Which National Park or reserve did the Minister visit on 19 September?

8064 FREEDOM OF INFORMATION STAFF—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra representing the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Minister for Energy, Minister for Corrective Services, Minister for Public Sector Reform, Special Minister of State—

(1) How many people work in the Freedom of Information section of the Department of Climate Change and the Environment?

(2) How many Freedom of Information requests does the department usually receive each year?(3) How many requests has the department received this year?(4) How many requests this year have been deemed refusals because the department cannot answer the

requests in the statutory period?(5) How many more employees are needed in order to meet the demand for services?






8065 NORTH-WEST RAIL CORRIDOR PROPERTY PURCHASES—Mr Michael Richardson to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo—

Given that in June I asked what properties the Government acquired for the North-West Rail Corridor:(1) Why did the Minister not disclose the Government's purchase of the property at 190-192 Castle Hill

Road, Cherrybrook?(2) Why did the Minister not disclose the Government's purchase of the property at 184 Castle Hill

Road, Cherrybrook?(3) Why did the Minister not disclose the Government's purchase of the property at 174-180 Castle Hill

Road Cherrybrook?(4) Which North-West Rail corridor properties were purchased from companies directed by Paul Hanna

and/or Danny Hanna Assabgy?

8066 COST OF COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS BUS—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) In 2009, how much did the Government pay for each new compressed natural gas bus?(2) What are the overall driver and maintenance costs for a single bus in NSW per annum in 2008-2009?

8067 TRAVEL CONCESSIONS FOR POSTGRADUATE STUDENTS—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) How much can full-time postgraduate students in NSW earn before they can no longer receive a travel concession?

(2) Is this a disincentive for people to take up postgraduate research?(3) What plans exist to increase the amount that postgraduate research students can earn before being

ineligible for transport concession benefits?

8068 IMPROVEMENT TO LITERACY AND NUMERACY FIGURES—Mr Rob Stokes to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

On what basis does the government forecast an improvement to literacy and numeracy figures for 2009-2010?

8069 JETTIES, BOATSHEDS AND MOORINGS—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Planning, and Minister for Redfern Waterloo representing the Minister for Lands—

With regards to jetties and boatsheds:(1) Across NSW, what are the total number of:

(a) jetties;(b) boatsheds;(c) other moorings;

that are managed⁄administered by the Department of Lands?(2) What is the breakdown of the number of jetties⁄boatsheds⁄other moorings into the following categories:

(a) local government area;(b) suburb;(c) electorate;

or any other category by which the Department of Lands collects and records data regarding waterfront tenancies?(3) What is the total amount of rental income collected for waterfront tenancies by the Department of Lands for the following financial years:

(a) 2005-2006;(b) 2006-2007;(c) 2007-2008;(d) 2008-2009;(e) 2009-2010?

8070 JETTIES, BOATSHEDS AND MOORINGS—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways—






With regards to jetties and boatsheds:(1) Across NSW, what are the total number of:

(a) jetties;(b) boatsheds;(c) other moorings;

that are managed⁄administered by NSW Maritime?(2) What is the breakdown of the number of jetties⁄boatsheds⁄other moorings into the following categories:

(a) local government area;(b) suburb;(c) electorate;

or any other category by which NSW Maritime collects and records data regarding waterfront tenancies?(3) What is the total amount of rental income collected for waterfront tenancies by NSW Maritime for the following financial years:

(a) 2005-2006;(b) 2006-2007;(c) 2007-2008;(d) 2008-2009;(e) 2009-2010?

8071 MEDIA MONITORING—Mr Andrew Stoner to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

How much has the RTA allocated towards media monitoring purposes for each financial year from 2006-2007 to date including, within the definition of media monitoring: analysis, review, collation, grouping and reporting of press clippings, radio, TV, Internet articles and other information mediums?

8072 ANIMAL OVERPASSES—Mr John Turner to ask the Minister for Transport, and Minister for the Illawarra—

(1) How many animal overpasses are there across the Pacific Highway between Hexham and Taree?(2) How many animal overpasses are proposed over the Pacific Highway for the same areas?(3) Is testing carried out to determine whether the overpasses are used by animals?(4) If so:

(a) How is testing done?(b) How many animals have used the overpass for each year that the overpass has been in place?

(5) Is it possible to determine the species of the animals that use the overpass?(6) If so:

(a) How?(b) What species have been using the overpass in each year that the overpass has been in place?

8073 BREWONGLE ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTRE—Mr Ray Williams to ask the Minister for Education and Training—

With respect to the Brewongle Environmental Education Centre at Sackville North, which is a Department of Education and Training school that assists teachers and students with environmental and sustainability education:(1) Does the centre have over 7,500 visits from a wide range of NSW students every year?(2) Why is this facility not provided with any NSW State Government funding, or current BER funding

which is being managed through the department, to improve the existing teacher accommodation, pit toilet system and unsuitable student accommodation at this important educational facility on behalf of the many teachers and students who work at and visit this centre?

8074 ADUA ENGINEERING—Mr Ray Williams to ask the Premier, Minister for the Arts, and Minister for the Central Coast—

(1) Does the pedestrian bridge at Falcon Street North Sydney constructed by Adua Engineering, a steel fabrication company in Riverstone, feature in State Government-funded advertisements for the "Better Future NSW" campaign to support local jobs?

(2) Are 17 jobs at this company now at risk because they have not had a contract for months due to the






Government sending contracts for steel works overseas to China?

8075 SEWERAGE CONNECTION COSTS—Mr Ray Williams to ask the Minister for Finance, Minister for Infrastructure, Minister for Regulatory Reform, and Minister for Ports and Waterways representing the Treasurer—

Given the NSW State Government provides 6 metres of installed plumbing to residents properties from the main sewerage line at the front of homes in Medlow Bath and Blackheath, why are residents in Glossodia, Freemans Reach and Wilberforce required to pay for the entire plumbing cost on private property and not receive any support from the NSW State Government?

_________________________________________ Authorised by the Parliament of New South Wales






QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS - Parliament of NSW · 20-10-2009 · The Questions and Answers Paper is...

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