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PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEES

PROGRESS ON INVESTIGATIONS

To 30 June 2003

55th Parliament

Issued by Authority of the President of the Legislative Council

and the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly

The Parliamentary Committees of the Victorian Parliament are appointed pursuant to the Parliamentary Committees Act 1968.

The functions of the Joint Investigatory Committees are detailed in sections 4C to 4EF of the Act which, by section 4F, also makes the following provisions regarding their role, sources of references and priorities in considering references:

(1) A Joint Investigatory Committee —

(a) is required to inquire into, consider and report to the Parliament on any proposal, matter or thing relevant to the functions of the Committee which is referred to the Committee —

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

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

(b) may inquire into, consider and report to the Parliament on any annual report or other document relevant to the functions of the Committee which is laid before either House of the Parliament pursuant to a requirement imposed by or under an Act.

* * * * *

(3) A resolution of the Council or the Assembly or an Order of the Governor in Council referring a proposal, matter or thing to a Joint Investigatory Committee pursuant to paragraph (a) of sub-section (1) may specify a period of time within which the Committee is required to make a final report to the Parliament on the proposal matter or thing.

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

(a) to give priority —

(i) firstly, to all proposals, matters or things referred to it by resolution of the Council or the Assembly; and

(ii) secondly, to all proposals, matters or things referred to it by Order of the Governor in Council published in the Government Gazette —

before all other proposals, matters or things being inquired into or being considered by the Committee; and

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

* * * * *

parliament..au

DRUGS AND CRIME PREVENTION COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000

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

Email: dcpc@parliament..au

Website:

Members:

(Council) Ms C Hirsh and The Hon S M Nguyen.

(Assembly) Hon R R Cooper, Ms K Marshall, Mr Ian Maxfield, Dr B Sykes and Mr K Wells.

Chair: Ms C Hirsh, MLC

Executive Officer: Sandy Cook

INQUIRY INTO WHITE COLLAR CRIME

Referred to the Committee by the Legislative Assembly on 28 November 2001, for inquiry, consideration and report by 30 September 2001 on:

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

b) The impact of new technology supporting e-commerce on the opportunities for fraud;

c) The current and proposed state, commonwealth and international strategies and initiatives in relation to dealing with fraud and white-collar crime, and

d) The need for policy and legislative reform to combat fraud and white-collar crime in Victoria.

This inquiry lapsed with the prorogation of the last Parliament. The terms of reference were re-referred to the Committee by Order in Council on 17 April 2003.

Activities during June 2003

• On going circulation of the Discussion Paper.

• Expert (in camera) evidence provided to the Committee by a police officer from the Major Fraud Group - Victoria Police

Study tour to Canberra, Sydney and Brisbane, 23 – 27 June 2003, involving site visits and discussions with the following representatives

Canberra

• Mr Chris Clark, Acting Director, Australian Crime Commission

• Ms Lisa Carr, National Fraud Desk and Identity Fraud, Australian Crime Commission Federal Agent Nigel Phair, Australian Federal Police

• Mr Nicholas Klein, Team Leader in the High Tech Crime Team, Australian Federal Police

Dr Clive Summerfield, Manager for Government Services, VeCommerce Ltd

• Mr Neil Mann, Deputy Commissioner, Australian Taxation Office

• Mr Chris Barlow, Assistant Commissioner, Australian Taxation Office

• Mr John McNamara, Assistant Commissioner, Australian Taxation Office

• Mr Rory Mulligan, Assistant Commissioner – Internal Assurance Branch, Australian Taxation Office

• Mr Peter Zdjelar, Director of Fraud Prevention and Control, Australian Taxation Office

• Mr Keith Besgrove, Chief General Manager, Regulation & Analysis Group, National Office for Information Economy

• Mr Phil Malone, E-Business Branch, National Office for Information Economy

Sydney

• Mr Aub Chapman, Head of Operations, Westpac Banking Corporation

• Mr Mark Bezzina, Director , Communications, IT and eCommerce

Standards Australia

• Mr Tom Godfrey, Standards Australia

• Mr Graham Austin, Manager, Fraud Minimisation, NSW Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages

• Mr Tom Jambrich, Assistant Auditor General, NSW Audit Office

• Mr Stephen Horne, Performance Audit Director, NSW Audit Office

• Mr Bruce Cox, Regional Director - Global Security, AMEX

• Mr Jilluck Wong, Regional Director - Fraud Prevention, AMEX

• Mr Michael Outram, Executive Director, NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption

• Mr Ted Dunstone, Previous Director, Biometrics Institute

• Ms Louise Collins, Consultant, SAGEM

• Mr Tony Vaccarella, Identification Systems, Account Executive, SAGEM

Brisbane

• Ms Leanne Joy Clare, Director of Public Prosecutions for Queensland

• Mr Phillip Bennett, Financial Analyst, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions

• Mr Ray Bange, Acting Manager, Misconduct Prevention Unit Crime and Misconduct Commission

• Mr Tony Clowes, Officer in Charge – Forensic Computing, Crime and Misconduct Commission

• Ms Narelle George, Misconduct Prevention Officer, Crime and Misconduct Commission

• Mr David Goody, Principal Financial Investigator, Crime and Misconduct Commission

ISSUE OF AMPHETAMINE AND ‘PARTY DRUG’ USE IN VICTORIA

Referred to the Committee by the Legislative Council on 15 May 2002 to inquire into and report to Parliament, by the first sitting day in 2003, on the issue of amphetamine and ‘party drug’ use in Victoria. In particular, the committee is requested to:

1. examine the nature, extent and culture of amphetamine and ‘party drug’ use.

2. determine the demographic profile of users.

3. examine the short and long term consequences of amphetamine and ‘party drug’ use.

4. examine the relationship of amphetamine and ‘party drug’ use to other forms of licit and illicit substance use.

5. review the adequacy of existing strategies for dealing with amphetamine and ‘party drug’ use.

6. consider best practice strategies to address the issue of amphetamine and ‘party drug’ use including regulatory, law enforcement, education and treatment responses.

This inquiry lapsed with the prorogation of the last Parliament. The terms of reference were re-referred to the Committee by Order in Council on 17 April 2003.

Activities during June 2003

• Research and review of literature continued.

• Writing and editing of Discussion Paper.

• Carolyn Hirsh, MLC, Chair, Dr Bill Sykes MLA, Executive Officer and Senior Legal Research Officer attended the seminar “Beyond e: exploring the impact of party drugs on current day use and culture” organised by VAADA.

• Expert (in camera) evidence provided to the Committee by police officers from Drug & Alcohol Strategy Unit – Victoria Police.

Study tour to Canberra, Sydney and Brisbane, 23 – 27 June 2003, involving site visits and discussions with the following representatives:

Canberra

Dr Toni Makkai, Director Research, Australian Institute of Criminology

• Dr Natalie Taylor, Researcher, Australian Institute of Criminology

• Ms Janet Smith, Manager, Information Services, J.V. Barry Library

Standing Committee on Family and Community Affairs

Parliament of Australia

• Mrs Kay Hull MP(Chair)

• Mrs Julia Irwin MP (Deputy Chair)

• Mr Peter Dutton MP

• Mr Cameron Thompson MP

• Ms Bev Forbes, Secretary

• Mr Chris Clark, Acting Director, Australian Crime Commission

• Mr Shaun Reynolds, Team Leader-Drugs Unit, Australian Crime Commission

• Mr Nicholas Klein, Team Leader in the High Tech Crime Team, Australian Federal Police

• Mr Keith Tomlinson, Australian Federal Police

• Mr Phil Case, Australian Federal Police

Sydney

• Dr John Howard, Programme Director, Ted Noffs Foundation

• Mr Paul Dillon, Media Liaison and Information Manager, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales

• Dr Louisa Degenhardt, Lecturer, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales

• Dr Rebecca McKetin, Research Fellow, National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales

• Ms Bronwyn Crosby, Manager of Clinical Services, St Vincent’s Hospital/Alcohol and Drug Information Service

• Ms Carol Stubley, Nursing Unit Manager, St Vincent’s Hospital/Alcohol and Drug Information Service

• Ms Lorraine Buckner Pitts, Health Education Officer/Counsellor, St Vincent’s Hospital/Alcohol and Drug Information Service

Brisbane

• Detective Inspector Gregory Tutt, Illicit Laboratory Investigation Team, Queensland Police

• Sergeant Scott Feeney, Chemical Diversion Desk Officer, Queensland Police

• Detective Acting Chief Superintendent Graham Rynders, Queensland Police

• Detective Superintendent Kev Robinson/Queensland Police

• Detective Sergeant Jason Renwick, Illicit Laboratory Team, Queensland Police

• Detective Senior Constable Fiona Hinshelwood, Sexual Crimes Investigation Unit, Queensland Police

• Ms Robyn Stewart, Executive Secretary, Assistant Commissioner (Crime Operations) Queensland Police

• Mr Michael Dart, Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs

Policy Advisor to the Minister, Queensland Health

• Dr Kevin Lambkin, Acting Manager

Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs, Queensland Health

• Mr Robert Kemp, Manager, Queensland Needle Availability Support Program, Public Health Service, Queensland Health

INQUIRY INTO STRATEGIES TO REDUCE HARMFUL ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION

Referred to the Committee by the Governor in Council on 6 May 2003, to inquire into, consider and report to Parliament on strategies to reduce harmful alcohol consumption. In particular the Committee is required to:

1. Investigate the nature, extent and culture of alcohol consumption on the Victorian community and the associated costs to the community.

2. Examine the role of alcohol advertising including its influence on harmful alcohol consumption and high-risk groups such as young people and Kooris.

3. Review the adequacy of existing strategies for reducing harmful alcohol consumption.

4. Recommend best practice strategies to address the issue of harmful alcohol consumption, including regulatory, law enforcement, education and treatment responses.

5. Examine national and international legislation, reports and material relevant to this issue.

The Committee is required to report to Parliament by 30 September 2004.

Activity during June 2003

• Work has not commenced on this Inquiry.

INQUIRY OF VIOLENCE ASSOCIATED WITH MOTOR VEHICLE USE

Referred to the Committee from the Legislative Assembly on 3 June 2003 for inquiry, consideration and report by 31 March 2004 on:

a) the incidence, prevalence, severity, cost and impact of violence associated with motor vehicle use;

b) a review of Victorian, national and international research into violence associated with motor vehicle use;

c) the effectiveness of strategies and initiatives relating to violence associated with motor vehicle use; and

d) the need for policy and legislative reform to reduce violence associated with the motor vehicle use at the state level.

Activity during June 2003

• Work has not commenced on this Inquiry.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000

Telephone: (03) 9651 3592 Facsimile: (03) 9651 3691

Email: edc@parliament..au

Website:

Members:

(Assembly) Mr H F Delahunty, Mr B J Jenkins, Ms M Morand and

Mr T G Robinson

(Council) The Hons B N Atkinson, R H Bowden and N Pullen

Chairman: Mr T G Robinson, MP

Executive Officer: Mr R A Willis

INQUIRY INTO EXPORT OPPORTUNITIES FOR VICTORIAN RURAL INDUSTRIES

Terms of Reference received by Order in Council on 15 April 2003.

Report due 30 September 2003.

Activities during June 2003

Melbourne public hearings held on 23 and 24 June 2003. Witnesses included food export businesses, government departments and agribusiness organisations.

Review of evidence and drafting of report.

Future Activities

Canberra meetings scheduled for 14 July 2003 with key government departments.

Committee meetings scheduled for 15-18 July in Auckland and Wellington to discuss marketing and branding of food exports.

Committee to deliberate on draft report.

INQUIRY INTO ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTION OF VICTORIA’S CULTURALLY DIVERSE POPULATION

Terms of Reference received by resolution of the Legislative Assembly on 3 June 2003.

For inquiry, consideration and report by 30 September 2004 on the actual and potential contribution to the economy of Victoria's culturally diverse population including new arrivals, with particular emphasis on the importance of Victoria's cultural diversity in improving productivity, increasing exports, attracting foreign investment and creating competitive advantage in the Australian and international markets; and in respect of the above:

(a) identify industry sectors/businesses that are actual or potential beneficiaries of cultural diversity, particularly in terms of investment and productivity improvement;

(b) whether there are particular issues for industry and business in rural and regional areas and how these regions may benefit from cultural diversity in Victoria including by addressing labour market shortages through new or recent arrivals from overseas;

(c) identify ways to take advantage of cultural diversity in the economy to increase Victoria's productivity and export markets;

(d) the appropriate role of Government in facilitating maximum use of Victoria's cultural diversity to promote productivity and export markets; and

(e) identify ways of measuring the benefits of cultural diversity including new arrivals to the Victorian economy.

Report due 30 September 2004.

INQUIRY INTO LABOUR HIRE EMPLOYMENT IN VICTORIA

Terms of Reference received by resolution of the Legislative Assembly on 3 June 2003.

(a) The extent and breadth of labour hire employment in Victoria, including the:

(i) employment status of workers engaged by labour hire companies;

(ii) use of labour hire in particular industries and/or regions; and

(iii) application of industrial relations, occupational health and safety, and workers compensation legislation.

(b) the consequences of the use of labour hire employment. Consideration should be given, but is not limited, to:

(i) the rights and obligations of labour hire employees, labour hire agencies and/or host employers under industrial relations, occupational health and safety, and workers' compensation legislation. Any ambiguity about the nature of rights and obligations between the three parties should also be considered;

(ii) the impact on industry skills levels;

(iii) contribution to the casualisation of the work force; and

(iv) the extent of any such consequences.

(c) recommendations based on an assessment of the above matters and including consideration of:

(i) the jurisdictional limitations of Victoria's industrial relations powers;

(ii) the recommendations of the New South Wales labour hire task force and the responsibilities of the New South Wales labour hire industry council (if established);

(iii) regulation in other Australian jurisdictions;

(iv) impact on business; and

(v) Worksafe Victoria campaigns and activities.

Report due 31 December 2004.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne, 3000

Telephone: 9651 3570 Facsimile: 9651 3601

Email: mark.roberts@parliament..au

Website:

Members:

(Council) The Hons Helen Buckingham and Peter Hall

(Assembly) Ms Anne Eckstein, Mr Steve Herbert, Mr Nicholas Kotsiras

Ms Janice Munt, and Mr Victor Perton.

Chairman: Steve Herbert MP

Executive Officer: Ms Karen Ellingford

Activities during June 2003.

On 3 June 2003, the Legislative Assembly referred to the Committee the following two terms of reference –

1. For inquiry, consideration and report by 30 September 2004 on the suitability of current pre-service teacher training courses, including:

(a) future requirements of such courses to train teachers appropriate for future schooling; and

(b) the particular training needs and arrangements for mature-age entrants from other professions —

and, in conducting the inquiry, the committee is to:

(i) determine the range and nature of pre-service teacher training courses within Victoria and the variation among these courses in areas of contact and practicum time, and in course focus on content and pedagogy;

(ii) examine a range of pre-service teacher training courses across Australia and internationally, focusing on how these courses differ and how they meet the needs of teachers and education systems for the 21st century;

(iii) determine the skills and knowledge required of teachers, and therefore of pre-service teacher training courses, in response to reflect the changing nature of education in the 21st century;

(iv) examine issues related to attracting people from other professions to become qualified teachers in Victoria; and

(v) make recommendations on specific requirements for pre-service teacher training courses, based on the skills and knowledge required of teachers in the 21st century and to support increased entry of mature-age entrants from other professions.

* * *

2. For inquiry, consideration and report by 30 June 2004 on the impact of the high levels of unmet demand for places in higher education institutions on Victoria, and in particular to consider:

(a) the relationship between unmet demand and high-level skill shortages in the Victorian economy;

(b) whether unmet demand has a negative effect on Victorian industry;

(c) how the demand for teaching and nursing places is affected by insufficient numbers of HECS places (i.e., in courses not available as full-fee paying courses);

(d) how unmet demand impacts on the demand for TAFE places;

(e) the degree to which commonwealth higher education funding policies directly contribute to unmet demand; and

(f) the need at a national level to improve cooperative arrangements between the vocational education and training and higher education sectors.

The Committee met with the New Zealand Parliament’s Education and Science Committee which was visiting Australia on a fact finding mission.

The Staffing Sub-Committee interviewed for the position of Executive Officer to the Committee and has appointed Ms Karen Ellingford.

ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne, 3000

Telephone: (03) 9651 3533 Facsimile: (03) 9651 3537

Email: enrc@parliament..au

Website:

Members:

(Council) The Hons A Coote, D K Drum, J G Hilton, W Lovell

(Assembly) Ms J T Duncan, Ms J M Lindell and Mr G Seitz

Chair: Ms J M Lindell, MP

Executive Officer: Dr Caroline Williams

LAPSED INQUIRIES

The following inquiries lapsed with the prorogation of the Legislative Council and dissolution of the Legislative Assembly on 5 November 2002 and have not been referred back to the Committee:

Improving the Procedures for the Acquisition of Private Land for Use as a Park

Impact, Management and Use of Carp

Possession and Trade of Exotic Vertebrate Animals

Floodplain Management in Regional Victoria

Urban Cat Control and Management in Victoria

ADEQUACY AND EFFECTIVENESS OF VETERINARY PATHOLOGY SERVICES

Referred to the Committee during the 54th Parliament by Order in Council on 20 March 2001 under section 4F of the Parliamentary Committees Act 1968.

Work commenced on the Inquiry in January 2002. A discussion paper was released, submissions called for, inspections and public hearings held, a survey of veterinary practitioners undertaken and a draft report prepared. The inquiry lapsed on the prorogation of the Legislative Council and dissolution of the Legislative Assembly on 5 November 2002.

Terms of reference were referred back to the Committee by Order in Council on 15 April 2003 under section 4F of the Parliamentary Committees Act 1968.

Activities during June 2003

Inquiry report tabled in Parliament on 4 June 2003. Members statements were made by the Chair, Ms Jenny Lindell, MP in the Legislative Assembly and by Ms Andrea Coote, MLC in the Legislative Council on Wednesday, 4 June 2003.

Report distributed to Minister and Shadow Minister for Agriculture, Minister for Environment, Water; Secretaries of Departments of Agriculture and Sustainability & Environment; contact departmental staff; veterinary industry peak bodies; all submittees and hearing witnesses, as well as contacts at inspection sites. Bulk copies were also forwarded to Information Victoria and Department of Sustainability and Environment Information Centre. A copy went to each of the 3 legal deposit entities. A further printing has been organised for all regional veterinarians who participated in the survey.

Future activity

Await Government response to the report due on 4 December 2003

IMPACT AND TRENDS IN SOIL ACIDITY

Referred to the Committee by Order in Council on 5 June 2003 under section 4F of the Parliamentary Committees Act 1968. The Committee is required to:

1) review projected social, economic and environmental impacts of soil acidity at a regional and catchment scale;

2) develop recommendations to reduce the projected impact of soil acidity identifying areas for potential partnerships with industry and the community; and

3) identify future research and development priorities.

The Committee is required to report to Parliament by 31 March 2004.

Activities during June 2003

On 25 June 2003, letter sent to Minister for Agriculture requesting a briefing on acid soils.

Briefing paper on a strategy for undertaking the Inquiry prepared for consideration at the next Committee meeting.

Future Activities

Committee to receive a briefing on acid soils from the Department of Primary Industries on Wednesday 16 July 2003.

Strategy for undertaking the Inquiry to be considered at the next Committee meeting.

Inspections and hearings to be held.

NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF PARLIAMENTARY PUBLIC WORKS AND ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEES

Activities during June 2003

Committee and Executive Officer attended National Conference of Public Works and Environment Committees in Western Australia, 29 June – 3 July 2003.

Environment and Natural Resources Committee (Victoria) nominated to host conference in 2004.

Future activity

Commence planning of 2004 conference.

FAMILY AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000

Telephone: (03) 9651 3520 Facsimile: (03) 9651 3691

Email: fcdc@parliament..au

Website:

Members:

(Council) The Hon D Davis

(Assembly) Ms H McTaggart, Ms L Neville, Mrs E J Powell, Mrs H Shardey, Mr R Smith and Mr D Wilson

Chairman: Mr R Smith, MLC

Executive Officer: Mr P L Bourke

EXAMINING THE IMPACT ON THE VICTORIAN COMMUNITY AND PUBLIC HOSPITALS ON THE DIMINISHING ACCESS TO AFTER HOURS AND BULK BILLING GENERAL PRACTITIONERS

Referred by Order in Council on 6 May 2003

Inquire into, consider and report to Parliament on:

1 The decline in the bulk-billing of general practitioner (GP) services in Victoria since 1996;

2. The increase in patient presentations to public hospital emergency departments in Victoria since 1996, and the extent to which this includes providing types of medical services that normally would be provided by a GP in a primary care setting (GP-type services);

3. The causes in increased presentations to public hospital emergency departments in Victoria since 1996, including difficulties in patients gaining access to bulk-billed and after-hours GP services;

4. The availability of after-hours GP services in metropolitan, regional and rural Victoria;

5. What effective measures can be taken to reduce the number of presentations to public hospital emergency departments consistent with maintaining the principle of universal access of eligible persons to health care free of charge at the point of access; and

6. the extent to which Commonwealth and Victorian legislation may affect Victoria's ability to develop and implement effective and patient-centred solutions to relieve the pressure on public hospital emergency departments to provide GP-type services.

In considering this reference, the Committee should examine:

1. Available bulk-billing, patient out-of-pocket expenses and emergency department data at regional and local levels, highlighting where bulk-billing rates are lowest and where emergency department presentations for urgency categories 4 and 5 are highest;

2. The respective roles and responsibilities of the Commonwealth and the Victorian governments;

3. Relevant Victorian and Commonwealth policies and legislation, including the 1999-2003 and 2003-08 Australian Health Care Agreements; and

4. Innovative and relevant models of care and service delivery in other Australian States and Territories, and overseas.

The Committee is required to report to Parliament by 30 June 2004.

Activities during June 2003

Discussion of possible witnesses.

Organisation of Rural Hearings.

Preparation of databases.

EXAMINING THE ROLES OF COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEES OF METROPOLITAN HEALTH SERVICES

Referred by Order in Council on 6 May 2003

To inquire into, consider and report to Parliament on the roles of Community Advisory Committees of Metropolitan Health Services. In particular the Committee is required to:

1 Review establishment, composition and objectives of these Committees in all Metropolitan Health Services.

2. Report on work programs and achievement of all Committees.

3. Make recommendations about the future directions of the Committees with regard to the membership, communications and community interactions with Metropolitan Services.

The Committee is required to report to Parliament by 31 December 2003.

Activities during June 2003

Discussion of possible witnesses.

Organisation of visit to Metropolitan Hospitals.

Preparation of databases.

IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF URBAN DESIGN AND THE OPPORTUNITY FOR PUBLIC ART IN VICTORIA

Referred by Order in Council 6 May 2003

To inquire into, consider, and make recommendations on options to improve the quality of urban design and increase opportunities for public art in development in Victoria and, in particular to report on:-

1. To identify mechanisms and good practice for the delivery of urban art outcomes, both by the public and private sectors, either as integral parts of development or as contributions to art works in the public realm.

2. The adequacy of existing programs and funding mechanisms for the delivery and support or urban design and public art, and make recommendations for cost-effective improvements in these programs and mechanisms.

3. Recommendations for mechanisms to increase funding for urban design and public art, and in particular ways to forge partnerships between the public and private sectors for that purpose.

4. Recommendations to improve community understanding of, access to and active participation in urban design and public art.

5. The need for change to legislation or statutory requirements to implement any recommendations made as a result of the Inquiry.

In conducting the Inquiry, the Committee is requested to seek information from relevant organisations in the arts, design and urban planning sectors, the general community, Local Government and other Government agencies. In particular, the Committee is requested to examine delivery and funding mechanisms for urban design and public art in other Australian States and Territories, and comparable mechanisms internationally.

The Committee is required to report to Parliament by 5 December 2003.

Activity during June 2003

Inquiry has not yet commenced.

CURRENT FORMS OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT BY VICTORIAN COUNCILS

Referred by Order in Council 6 May 2003

Inquire into, consider and report to the Parliament on current forms of community engagement by Victorian Councils and ways to enhance and promote greater community engagement within existing councils as part of their governance arrangements.

Activities during June 2003

Discussion of possible witnesses.

Organisation of visit to Metropolitan Hospitals.

Preparation of databases.

LAW REFORM COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000

Telephone: (03) 9651 3644 Facsimile: (03) 9651 3674

Email: VPLRC@parliament..au

Website:

Members:

(Council) Ms D. G. Hadden, the Hons A Brideson, and R.A. Dalla-Riva.

(Assembly) Ms D.A. Beard, Mr R. Hudson. Mr A. G. Lupton and

Mr N. J. Maughan.

Chairman: Mr R. Hudson, MP

Executive Officer: Ms M. L. Mason

INQUIRY INTO FORENSIC SAMPLING AND THE USE OF DNA DATABASES IN CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS

Referred by Order in Council in the Government Gazette of 17 April 2003.

To inquire into, consider and report on:

The collection, use and effectiveness of forensic sampling and the use of DNA databases in criminal investigations, with particular emphasis on identifying areas and procedures which would more effectively utilise forensic sampling and improve investigation and detection of crime.

The Terms of Reference for this inquiry exactly replicate those of the reference given to the Committee in the 54th Parliament and which lapsed when Parliament was prorogued in November 2002.

Activities during June 2003

• Public hearing held on 2 June 2003 -

|Witness |Affiliation |

|Assistant Commissioner Noel Ashby |Victoria Police. |

|Acting Commander I Thomas | |

|Superintendent Paul Evans | |

|Detective Inspector D. Cowlishaw | |

|Acting Inspector A. O’Connor | |

| | |

|Mr John Wallace |Acting Director |

|Prof John Scheffer |Assistant Director, Biology |

| |Victoria Forensic Science Centre |

| | |

| | |

|Dr J. Gans |Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Law, |

| |Melbourne University. |

| | |

|Mr N. McNamara |Crime Victims Support Association. |

| | |

|Mr V. Stojcevski |Senior Policy and Research Officer |

|Mr J. McLoughlin |Criminal Lawyer |

| |Victoria Legal Aid. |

• Committee meeting of 23 June 2003 included meeting with Professor Mark Findlay, author of a review of forensic sampling provisions in NSW.

Summary of work completed during 54th Parliament

Meetings during an overseas study tour January/February 2002

|San Francisco Police Department |

|Ms Cydne Holt |Supervisor, Forensic Biology Section |

| |Forensic Services Division |

|California Department of Justice |

|Mr Harry Dorfman |Assistant District Attorney |

| |Attorney-General’s Office |

|Federal Bureau of Investigations |

|Mr John Behun |Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) |

| |Forensic Science Systems Unit |

|New York City Police Department |

|Robert Messner |Assistant Commissioner, Legal Bureau |

| |Civil Enforcement Unit |

|Sergeant Martin Gleeson |Managing Attorney |

|Mr Peter Ostapenko |Associate Staff Analyst, |

| |Office of Management Analysis and Planning |

|Mr Thomas Prasso |Director, License Division |

|Thomas Doepfner |Assistant Commissioner, Legal Bureau |

|George Grasso |Deputy Commissioner, Legal Matters |

|Detective Edward Wallace |Senior Crime Scene Analyst, Forensic Investigation Division |

|Office of Forensic Services, New York State Division of Criminal Justice |

|Mr John Hicks |Director, Office of Forensic and Victim Services, |

| |Division of Criminal Justice Services |

|Ms Julie Pasquini |DNA Collection Coordinator |

|Dr Bob Shaler |Director, Forensic Biology |

| |NYC Office of the Chief Medical Examiner |

|UK Forensic Science Service |

|Mr Mark Lowther |Manager, Corporate Markets, Market Sector Development |

|Mr Chris Hadkiss |DNA Manager, Forensic Science Services |

|Mr Denesh Kara | |

|Interpol |

|Mr Werner Schuller |Operational Police Forensic Support, |

| |Manager Interpol DNA Projects |

Discussion Paper distributed with initial contact letter to stakeholders requesting submissions. Also available on Committee website.

Commissioning of three expert papers, which have been placed on Committee website:

• Legal and ethical issues – prepared by Barrister Dr Ian Freckelton

• Practical and technical issues – prepared by the Victorian Forensic Science Centre

• Forensic Procedures: Potential Impacts on Victoria’s Indigenous Community – prepared by Dr Greg Gardner, Parliamentary Library

Members of the Committee and staff attended Law Asia Seminar on DNA related legal issues.

Public hearings were held on 22 and 23 July 2002.

|Witness |Affiliation |

|Commander P. Hornbuckle |Corporate Policy; |

|Acting Inspector A. O’Connor |Legislative Review and Proposals |

|Detective Inspector D. Cowlishaw |DNA Implementation Unit, |

| |Victoria Police. |

| | |

|Dr J. Gans |Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Law, |

| |Melbourne University. |

| | |

|Mr D. Hoenig |Executive Officer, |

| |New South Wales Innocence Panel, and Senior Policy Analyst, |

| |New South Wales Ministry for Police. |

| | |

| |Director, |

|Ms L. Weathered |Griffith University Innocence Project. |

| | |

| |Co-ordinator, Innocence Project, |

|Ms K. Edwards |University of Technology Sydney. |

| | |

| |Privacy Commissioner. |

|Mr P. Chadwick | |

| |Head, Division of Clinical Medicine, |

|Acting Prof. D. Wells |Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine. |

| | |

| |Case Worker |

|Ms A. Radonik |Director |

|Ms S. Nicholson |Youth Law. |

| | |

| |Chair |

|Mr R. Punshon SC |Member |

|Mr R. Nankivell |Criminal Bar Association of Victoria. |

| | |

| |President |

|Mr D. Faram |Assistant |

|Ms A. Palk |Law Institute of Victoria |

|Mr D. Laschko; |Biology Division, |

|Mr J. Scheffer |Victoria Forensic Science Centre. |

|Dr P. Stringer, | |

| | |

| | |

|Mr N. McNamara |Crime Victims Support Association. |

|Mr N. Halvagas | |

| | |

| |Private Citizen. |

|Mr J. Magill | |

| |Manager, |

|Ms M. Parsell |Forensic Science Laboratory Accreditation Program, |

| |National Association of Testing Authorities. |

| | |

| |Director of Public Prosecutions |

| |Solicitor, |

| |Office of Public Prosecutions. |

|Mr P. Coghlan QC | |

|Ms R. Sharp |Victoria Legal Aid. |

| | |

| | |

|Mr V. Stojcevski |Director, |

|Mr J. McLoughlin |Jesuit Social Services. |

| | |

|Father P. Norden |Co-Executive Director, |

| |Public Interest Law Clearing House. |

| | |

|Ms E. Hunt |Lecturer in Law, |

| |Deakin University. |

| | |

|Mr D. Meagher |Vice-President, |

| |Victorian Council for Civil Liberties (Liberty Victoria). |

| | |

|Mr G. Connellan | |

| | |

Committee and staff visited the Victorian Forensic Science Centre in August 2002 to inspect the laboratory and be briefed on the Centre’s activities.

Committee members travelled to Brisbane, Sydney and Adelaide for meetings during September 2002.

Brisbane 19 September 2002

Queensland Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Paul Rutledge, Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions.

Australian Council for Civil Liberties, Mr Terry O’Gorman, President.

Queensland Police Service, Chief Superintendent David Melville, Senior Sergeant, Gary Pettiford, Officer in Charge, DNA Unit, Sergeant Michael Briody, Senior Sergeant Michael Ede.

• Queensland Department of Health Scientific Services Laboratory, Associate Professor Leo Freeney, Senior Scientist.

Sydney 20 September 2002

NSW Police Service, Dr Peter Gunn, Manager, Scientific Support, Forensic Services Group, Mr Wayne Tosh, Manager, Procedures Implementation Team DNA, Ms Natalie Dugandzic, Solicitor, Court and Legal Services Unit.

NSW Public Defenders’ Office, Mr Peter Zahra, Senior Public Defender, Mr Andrew Haesler, Public Defender, Member of the ALRC Working Group on Law Enforcement and Evidence for the Protection of Human Genetic Information Inquiry.

• NSW Legislative Council Standing Committee on Law and Justice, Hon Ron Dyer, Chairman, Hon John Ryan, Deputy Chair.

NSW Ombudsman, Mr Stephen Kinmond, Assistant Ombudsman (Police).

Adelaide 25 September 2002

South Australia Police, Inspector England, Head DNA Project Team.

Forensic Science Centre, Dr Hilton Kobus, Director, Mr Robert Locan, Assistant Director, Operations.

Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr Paul Rofe QC, Ms Wendy Abraham QC, Associate DPP, Ms Geraldine Davidson, Senior Solicitor.

Future Activity

• Redrafting of report.

INQUIRY INTO THE ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE OFFENCES

Referred by Order in Council on 6 May 2003.

To inquire into, consider and report on:

1. The current state of law in Victoria in relation to administration of justice offences (such as perjury, perverting the course of justice, falsifying evidence and threatening witnesses); and

2. Whether these laws should be amended, and in what way, having particular regard to interstate laws and the recommendations of the Model Criminal Code Officers Committee Discussion Paper on Administration of Justice Offences (July 1997).

Activity during June 2003

Drafting of discussion paper.

Future Activity

• Discussion paper release and call for submissions planned for August 2003.

INQUIRY ON THE REVIEW OF EXISTING WARRANT PROCEDURES

Referred by Order in Council on 3 June 2003.

To inquire into, consider and report to Parliament on:

1. Victoria's existing warrant powers and procedures, including arrest warrants, warrants to seize property and search warrants; and

2. whether the existing laws should be amended, and in what way, having particular regard to the need to promote fairness, consistency and efficiency.

This inquiry has not yet commenced.

INQUIRY INTO THE ADMINISTRATION AND PROBATE ACT 1958

Referred by Order in Council on 3 June 2003.

To inquire into, consider and report to Parliament on: 

The Administration and Probate Act 1958 and in particular to have regard to issues including, but not limited to:

1. the desirability of new legislation and procedures to deal with the administration of a deceased person's estate.

2. whether the act should be amended to provide alternative mechanisms for the resolution of disputes that involve small estates;

3. whether the Magistrates Court and the County Court should also be given jurisdiction to deal with grants of probate and administration and deal with disputes relating to wills; and

4. whether amendments are necessary in relation to the charges and commissions of solicitors who also act as executors.

 

This inquiry has not yet commenced.

OUTER SUBURBAN/INTERFACE SERVICES AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000

Telephone: (03) 9651 3570 Facsimile: (03) 9651 3601

Email: mark.roberts@parliament..au

Website:

Members:

(Council) Mr J E Scheffer and Mr A K Somyurek

(Assembly) Mr E N Baillieu, Ms R Buchanan, Mr M F Dixon, Mr D A Nardella and Hon K M Smith

Chairman: Don Nardella MP

Interim Executive Officer: Mark Roberts

Activities during June 2003.

On 3 June 2003, the Legislative Assembly referred to the Committee the following terms of reference –

For inquiry, consideration and report by 31 March 2004 on sustainable urban design for new communities in outer suburban areas and, in conducting the Inquiry, the committee is to:

(a) identify the current practice of urban design for new communities and articulate the potential contribution of urban design to sustainability objectives;

(b) examine best practice urban design in urban development projects by state agencies;

(c) examine and report on the relationship and opportunities in the achievement of urban design objectives between the public and private domains;

(d) investigate the potential effectiveness of the Pride of Place program in the achievement of sustainable urban design for new communities; and

(e) investigate the contribution of key elements of urban design to the achievement of greenhouse strategy and Melbourne 2030 objectives, including:

(i) water sensitive design;

(ii) provision of public open space;

(iii) road safety;

(iv) public safety;

(v) reduced car dependency; and

(vi) physical and social well-being.

The Staffing Sub-Committee recently interviewed applicants for the position of Executive Officer, with a decision to be made shortly.

PUBLIC ACCOUNTS AND ESTIMATES COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000

Telephone: (03) 9651 3551 Facsimile: (03) 9651 3552

Email: paec@parliament..au

Website:

Members:

(Council) The Hons B Baxter, B Forwood (Deputy Chair), G K Rich-Phillips

and Ms G D Romanes.

(Assembly) Ms C Campbell, Mr R W Clark, Mr L Donnellan, Ms D Green, Mr J Merlino.

Chair: Hon. C. Campbell, MP

Executive Officer: Ms M Cornwell

UNFUNDED SUPERANNUATION LIABILITIES IN VICTORIAN UNIVERSITIES

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

Summary of work completed during the 54th Parliament

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

On 2 November 2001, the Secretary of the Department of Treasury and Finance advised that an issue proposal was being prepared to the Urgent Issues Group of the Australian Accounting Standards Board to resolve the matters raised in the Committee’s report.

On 8 July 2002, letter sent to the Chairman – Urgent Issues Group of the Australian Accounting Standards Board requesting information about the status of the review of unfunded superannuation liabilities.

On 31 July 2002, response received advising that the Urgent Issues Group (UIA) Agenda Committee has agreed to include a project on the unfunded superannuation liabilities in the financial statements of Australian universities on the UIA’s work program.

Parliament prorogued on 5 November 2002.

Work undertaken by the new Committee

On 22 April 2003 the new Committee considered a letter from the Chairman of the Australian Accounting Standards Board advising that the Urgent Issues Group has now reached a consensus concerning the accounting by universities in relation to unfunded superannuation.

Future Activity

New Committee to monitor developments.

2000-2001 BUDGET OUTCOMES

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

Summary of work completed during the 54th Parliament

On 19 September 2002, draft report forwarded to the Chairman of the Committee of the 54th Parliament to review.

Parliament prorogued on 5 November 2002.

Summary of work undertaken by the new Committee

During April 2003, the Chair of the new Committee reviewed the draft report.

On 5 May 2003, the new Committee discussed the draft report and agreed to refer the report to the former Chairman for comment.

Draft report forwarded to the former Chairman.

Activities during June 2003

On 4 June 2003, advice received from the former Chairman.

On 10 June 2003, draft report further considered by the Committee and adopted with amendments.

On 11 June 2003, Report No.51 was tabled in the Legislative Council.

Future Activities

Distribute report to interested parties.

Report to be tabled in the Legislative Assembly.

Await Government response to the report which is due to be tabled on 12 December 2003.

2002-2003 BUDGET ESTIMATES

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

Summary of work completed during the 54th Parliament

On 25 September 2002, the draft report was forwarded to the Chairman of the Committee of the 54th Parliament to review.

Parliament prorogued on 5 November 2002.

Summary of work undertaken by the new Committee

In April 2003 the draft report was forwarded to the Chair of the new Committee to review.

On 5 May 2003, the new Committee discussed the draft report and agreed to refer the report to the former Chairman for comment.

Draft report forwarded to the former Chairman.

Activities during June 2003

On 4 June 2003, advice received from the former Chairman.

On 10 June 2003, draft report further considered by the Committee and adopted.

On June 2003, Report No. 52 was tabled in the Legislative Council.

Future Activities

Distribute report to interested parties.

Report to be tabled in the Legislative Assembly.

Await Government response to the report which is due to be tabled on 12 December 2003.

2003-2004 BUDGET ESTIMATES

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

On 2 April 2003, estimates questionnaire distributed to all Departments, the Environment Protection Authority and the Presiding Officers of the Parliament.

On 8 May 2003 a briefing for Members of Parliament on the State Budget for 2003-2004 was held.

Background briefing papers on the budget estimates for each portfolio prepared.

Estimates hearings held on the following dates:

|Tuesday, 13 May |Premier |

|2 p.m. to 5 p.m. |Minister for Multicultural Affairs |

|Wednesday, 14 May |Minister for State and Regional Development and Minister for Innovation |

|9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. |Treasurer |

|2 p.m. to 5 p.m. |Minister for Arts |

| |Minister for Women’s Affairs |

| |Minister for Planning |

|Thursday, 15 May | |

|9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. |Minister for Health |

|2 p.m. to 5 p.m. |Minister for Consumer Affairs |

| |Minister for Finance |

|Friday, 16 May | |

|9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. |Minister for Education and Training |

|2 p.m. to 4.45 p.m. |Minister for Employment |

| |Minister for Education Services |

| |Minister for Youth Affairs |

|Friday, 23 May |Minister for Local Government |

|9.30 a.m. to 11.45 a.m. |Minister for Housing |

|2 p.m. to 5 p.m. |Minister for Corrections |

| |Minister for Police and Emergency Services |

|Tuesday 27 May |Minister for Environment |

|1 p.m. to 4 p.m. |Minister for Water |

| |Minister for Victorian Communities |

|Wednesday 28 May |Minister for Financial Services Industry |

|9.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. |Minister for Manufacturing and Exports |

|2 p.m. to 4 p.m. |Minister for Resources |

| |Minister for Energy Industries |

|Thursday 29 May |Minister for Information and Communication Technology |

|9.30 a.m. to 12 noon |Minister for Small Business |

|2 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. |Minister for Community Services |

|Friday 30 May |Minister for Tourism |

|9.30 a.m. to 12 noon |Minister for Gaming and Minister for Racing |

|2 p.m. to 5 p.m. |Minister for Industrial Relations |

| |Minister for WorkCover |

| |Attorney-General |

On 26 May 2003, follow-up questions forwarded to the Premier, Minister for Multicultural Affairs and the Treasurer.

Activities during June 2003

Estimates hearings held on the following dates:

|Tuesday, 17 June |Minister for Major Projects |

|2 p.m. to 5 p.m. |Minister for Transport |

|Wednesday, 18 June | |

|9.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. |Minister for Agriculture |

|Thursday, 19 June |Minister for Sport and Recreation |

|9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. |Minister for Commonwealth Games |

|2 p.m. to 4.15 p.m. |Minister for Aboriginal Affairs |

| |Minister for Aged Care |

|Tuesday, 24 June | |

|11 a.m. to 1 p.m. |Presiding Officers of the Parliament |

Follow up questions forwarded to Ministers.

Future Activities

Draft report to be prepared and considered by the Committee on 20 August 2003.

Report to be tabled in Parliament and distributed.

REVIEW OF AUDITOR-GENERAL’S REPORTS

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

Summary of work completed during the 54th Parliament

The Committee of the 54th Parliament resolved to undertake follow up Inquiries into Performance Audit Reports Nos. 51 Victorian Rural Ambulance Services and 65 Reducing Landfill – Waste Management by Municipal Councils.

Evidence taken from the Auditor-General.

On 31 October 2002, a list of questions relating to the Auditor-General’s Report No. 51 was forwarded to the Minister for Health.

Parliament prorogued on 5 November 2002.

Summary of work undertaken by the new Committee

On 7 January 2003, response received from the Minister for Health.

On 22 April 2003, the new Committee resolved to recommence the Inquiries undertaken by the previous Committee and considered Briefing Papers on proposed strategies for undertaking the Inquiries.

On 5 May 2003, the Auditor-General and officers of the VAGO briefed the Committee on the Report on Parliamentary Control and Management of Appropriations.

Future Activities

In relation to Report No. 51, further questions to be forwarded to the Minister for Health and a public hearing to be arranged for 14 August 2003.

In relation to Report No. 65, briefing paper to be revised and reconsidered by the Committee. Public hearing to be arranged for 14 August 2003.

Briefing papers to be prepared on Reports of the Auditor-General on:

• Parliamentary control and management of appropriations; and

• Performance management and reporting.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT REFORM PROGRAM

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

Future Activity

On 20 August 2003, the Committee to brief Members of the NSW Public Accounts Committee on its work in relation to financial and performance management issues.

PERFORMANCE AUDIT PROGRAM

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

On 31 March 2003, discussions held with the Auditor-General concerning the proposed performance audit program for 2003-04.

On 20 May 2003, the Committee wrote to the Auditor-General nominating a number of areas that could be included in the next annual plan of audits to be undertaken by the VAGO.

Activities during June 2003

On 18 June 2003, the Sub-Committee considered the objectives and specifications for proposed performance audits on:

• Development of Policy Advice;

• Establishing Sustainable Forests;

• Budget Development and Management within Departments.

Future Activity

On 11 August 2003, the Sub-Committee to consider the objectives and specifications for two proposed performance audits.

DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES – SERVICE AGREEMENTS FOR COMMUNITY, HEALTH AND WELFARE SERVICES

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

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

Government response to report was tabled on 17 October 2002.

Work undertaken by the new Committee

On 5 May 2003, the new Committee considered a briefing paper on the Government’s response to the previous Committee’s report.

Future Activity

Committee to seek clarification about a number of matters contained in the Government’s response.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE IN THE VICTORIAN PUBLIC SECTOR

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

Summary of work completed during the 54th Parliament

Inquiry advertised on 6 April 2002.

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

On 1 May 2002, evidence taken from the Municipal Association of Victoria; the Auditor-General’s Office; Victorian Council of Social Service; Energy Action Group; and Professor Graeme Hodge.

51 submissions received.

Submissions analysed and briefing paper prepared.

On 24 October 2002, a whole of government submission received.

Parliament prorogued on 5 November 2002.

Work undertaken by the new Committee

On 5 May 2003, the new Committee resolved to complete the Inquiry commenced by the previous Committee.

Future Activity

Public hearings to be organised.

VALUATION AND REPORTING OF HERITAGE AND INFRASTRUCTURE ASSETS

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

On 30 October 2002, PAEC Report No. 49 was tabled in the Parliament.

Work undertaken by the new Committee

On 20 May 2003, Government response to the report was tabled in the Parliament.

Future Activity

Briefing paper to be prepared and considered by the Committee at a meeting on 20 August 2003.

PRIVATE SECTOR INVESTMENT IN PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE

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

Summary of work completed during the 54th Parliament

Terms of reference adopted by the Committee on 6 February 2002 and Sub-Committee appointed to undertake Inquiry.

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

On 30 April 2002, the Sub-Committee was briefed by representatives from the Victorian Auditor-General’s Office, Department of Treasury and Finance; Tasman Economics; Institution of Engineers; Transfield; PricewaterhouseCoopers; Professor Graeme Hodge and Dr Raphael Arndt.

34 submissions received and background briefing paper prepared.

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

Mr T. Cave, General Manager, Major Projects Delivery and Mr J. Charleson, Deputy Secretary, Corporate Services, Department of Justice; and

Mr G. Campbell, Partner, Maddocks.

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

Mr G. Joyce, Graeme Joyce Pty Ltd;

Dr A. Smith, Director and Ms M. Baker, Melbourne City Link; and

Ms C. Hilder, Director, Policy, Australian Council for Infrastructure Development.

Public hearing held on 24 September 2002 with the following witnesses:

Mr J. Myers, Head of Business Strategy and Ms S. Gandur, Head of Communications, National Express Group;

Mr Paul Kennelly, Research Officer, Australian Education Union – Victorian Branch;

Ms Cath Smith, Chief Executive Officer, VCOSS, and Ms C. Atkins, Policy Analyst, VCOSS;

Mr Don Johnson, General Manager – Victoria, Thiess.

Public hearings held in Brisbane, Sydney and Canberra with the following individuals and organisations:

– Infrastructure Partnerships Taskforce, Department of State Development, Queensland

– Queensland Audit Office

– Queensland Council of Unions

– Department of Health, Queensland

– Queensland Transport and Main Roads

– Treasury NSW

– NSW Auditor-General

– Professor Sheil, Academic, University of New South Wales

– Tony Harris, Australian Financial Review

– Macquarie Bank

– NSW Public Accounts and Estimates Committee

– Robert Opiat, Director PPPs, Baulderstone Hornibrook

– Commonwealth Auditor-General

– Mr John Quiggin, academic, Australian National University.

– Mr Kenneth Davidson – media commentator

Parliament prorogued on 5 November 2002.

Summary of work undertaken by the new Committee

On 5 May 2003 the Committee considered a background briefing paper on the status of the Inquiry and key issues identified.

On 5 May 2003, the new Committee resolved to complete the Inquiry commenced by the previous Committee.

Future Activities

On 5 and 6 August 2003, the Chair, Deputy Chair and the Committee’s Executive Officer to attend the National Infrastructure Summit Conference in Sydney.

On 7 August 2003, the Chair and Deputy Chair of the Sub-Committee to take evidence from expert witnesses in Sydney.

On 8 September 2003, Sub-Committee to take evidence in Melbourne.

Draft report to be prepared and considered by the Sub-Committee in November 2003.

STATUTORY INDEPENDENT OFFICERS OF PARLIAMENT LEGISLATION

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

Summary of work completed during the 54th Parliament

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

Inquiry advertised.

Ten submissions received.

Submissions analysed and key issues identified.

Evidence taken from the New Zealand statutory Officers of Parliament, the Speaker of the New Zealand House of Representatives, the Officers of Parliament Committee and officials from the New Zealand Treasury, the Victorian Auditor-General, Mr W. Cameron, and the Assistant Auditor-General, Mr J. Manders, Mr Peter Salway, Commissioner for Public Employment, Dr Wayne Chamley, Management Group, The Purple Sage Project, Professor Colin Clark, Deputy Dean, Faculty of Business and Law and Head of the Public Sector Research Unit, Victoria University of Technology, Mr Michael De Martinis, Lecturer, School of Accounting and Finance, Victoria University of Technology, Mr Harry Evans, Clerk of the Senate, Mr John Parkinson, Convenor of the Australasian Council of Auditors-General and A.C.T. Auditor-General, Mr Ron McLeod, Commonwealth Ombudsman, Mr Oliver Winder, Deputy Commonwealth Ombudsman, Mr Bob Charles, MP, Chairman of the Commonwealth Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit, Dr Margot Kerley, Secretary to the Commonwealth Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit, Dr John Uhr, Research School of Social Sciences, Australian National University, Professor Roger Wettenhall, Visiting Fellow, Research School of Public Sector Management, University of Canberra, Dr John Tamblyn, Victorian Regulator-General; and Dr Barry Perry, The Victorian Ombudsman.

Research undertaken on developments overseas.

Parliament prorogued on 5 November 2002.

Work undertaken by the new Committee

On 5 May 2003, the new Committee resolved to complete the Inquiry commenced by the previous Committee.

Future Activities

Draft report to be revised to take into account recent amendments to the Audit Act and relevant developments overseas.

Draft report to be considered by the Committee on 20 August 2003.

AUDITOR-GENERAL’S OFFICE

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

Summary of work undertaken in the 54th Parliament

On 27 May 2002, suggested statement of protocols between the Committee and the Auditor-General received.

Protocol statement discussed at the Committee’s meeting on 26 September 2002 and revised.

Proposed changes to the protocol statement forwarded to the Auditor-General on 4 November 2002.

Parliament prorogued on 5 November 2002.

Summary of work undertaken by the new Committee

On 31 March 2003 the Auditor-General briefed the new Committee on the VAGO’s proposed budget and annual plan for 2003-04.

The Committee sought advice from the Department of Treasury and Finance on the proposed 2003-04 budget of the VAGO.

On 2 April 2003 the Committee forwarded a response concerning the Auditor-General’s budget estimates for 2003-04 to the Treasurer.

On 22 April 2003 the Committee discussed the VAGO proposed annual plan for 2003-04.

On 22 April 2003 the new Committee considered the Auditor-General’s response to the Committee’s suggestions for changes to the protocol statement.

Committee resolved to adopt the protocol, subject to some minor changes to reflect the new membership arrangements.

On 5 May 2003, the Committee was briefed by the Minister for Finance on proposed changes to the Audit Act.

On 5 May 2003 the Committee again discussed the VAGO proposed annual plan for 2003-04.

On 20 May 2003 the Committee’s response to the Draft Annual Plan forwarded to the Auditor-General.

Activities during June 2003

On 27 June 2003, the Chair was the keynote speaker at the Auditor-General’s conference for VAGO staff.

Protocol statement between the PAEC and the Auditor-General formally signed at the Auditor-General’s conference.

CHANGES TO THE VICTORIAN PUBLIC SERVICE

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

On 30 October 2002, PAEC Report No. 50 tabled in the Parliament.

On 29 April 2003, Government response to the report was tabled in the Parliament.

Work undertaken by the new Committee

Briefing paper on the Government’s response prepared.

Activity during June 2003

Briefing paper on the Government’s response considered at a meeting of the Committee on 10 June 2003.

UNAUTHORISED DISCLOSURE OF CORRESPONDENCE

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

On 5 May 2003, the Committee resolved to undertake an Inquiry into the leaking of correspondence to the media.

Sub-Committee comprising the Chair, Deputy Chairman, Mr Donnellan and Mr Clark appointed.

Letters and statutory declaration forms sent to all Members and staff of the Committee, to the journalists who wrote the articles about the letter, and to the Auditor-General seeking information about the leaking of the document.

Activities during June 2003

Responses received.

Sub-Committee met on 10 June 2003 to consider the responses.

Sub-Committee resolved to recommend to the full Committee that no further action be taken as the evidence is inconclusive.

Future Activity

To be discussed at the Committee meeting scheduled for 20 August 2003.

ROAD SAFETY COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000

Telephone: (03) 9651 3634 Facsimile: (03) 9651 3691

Email: rsc@parliament..au

Website:

Members:

(Council) The Hons Barry Bishop, John Eren and Graeme Stoney MLC.

(Assembly) Mr Alistair Harkness, Mr Craig Langdon, Mr Terry Mulder and Mr Ian Trezise, MP.

Chairman: Mr Ian Trezise, MP

Executive Officer: Ms A Douglas

ROAD SAFETY FOR OLDER ROAD USERS

Terms of Reference issued by Order in Council on 15 April 2003.

Activities during June 2003

The Committee met with the Manager, Office of Senior Victorians, Policy Consultant, Aged Care and Senior Project Officer, Rural Human Services Strategy from the Department of Human Services; the General Manager Public Policy, Chief Behavioural Scientist and Road User Programs Officer from the Royal Automobile Club of Victoria Ltd; the Executive Director of Alzheimer’s Association; a Lecturer from LaTrobe University School of Occupational Therapy; a Professor from the Centre for Eye Research, Melbourne University, who all briefed the Committee on issues pertaining to the Inquiry into Improving Road Safety for Older Road Users.

The Committee also conducted a site visit to the Accident Research Centre, Monash University and a study tour in NSW.

The Committee held meetings at the NSW Parliament and were briefed by staff of the Roads & Traffic Authority, NSW; the Dean of Health Sciences University of Sydney; the Policy Advisor, Mobility Safety Department of the NRMA; a geriatrician from the Central Coast Area Health Service, experts from the Australian Driver Trainers Association, the Director, Rural and Regional Strategy from the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Natural Resources, the Manager, Community Transport from the Ministry of Transport, and the Pedestrian Council of Australia. The Committee also met the new members of the Road Safety (Staysafe) Committee of NSW.

Future Activity

The Committee will begin deliberation of draft report.

COUNTRY ROAD TOLL

Terms of Reference issued by resolution of the Legislative Assembly on 5 June 2003:

For inquiry, consideration and report by 31 March 2004 on and report by 31 March 2004 on factors that contribute to the unacceptably high road toll in country Victoria and in particular to report on:

(a) the incidence and causative role of speed, drugs, alcohol and fatigue in rural road crashes;

(b) the role of the road and roadside environment in the causation and severity of crashes;

(c) the role and potential contribution to crash causation of vehicle features such as cruise control and in car navigation systems;

(d) the extent and effectiveness of enforcement activities in country Victoria;

(e) measures which could be introduced to reduce the incidence and severity of crashes; and

(f) the need for change to legislation or statutory requirements to implement any recommendations made as a result of this inquiry –

and, in conducting the inquiry, the committee is to seek information from government and non-government agencies, local government, motoring organisations and the community. In particular, the committee is requested to examine measures being developed and implemented in other jurisdictions and countries with significant and comparable rural road networks.

CRASHES INVOLVING ROADSIDE OBJECTS

Terms of Reference issued by resolution of the Legislative Assembly on 5 June 2003.

For inquiry, consideration and report by 31 March 2004 on:

(a) the incidence, causes and appropriate means of addressing road crashes involving vehicles leaving the road and colliding with roadside objects;

(b) the liability and accountability issues relating to roadside utility poles, trees and other fixed objects;

(c) appropriate risk management guidelines and practices for roadside hazard management in various speed zones; and

(d) the need for change to legislation or statutory requirements to implement any recommendations made as a result of this inquiry –

and, in conducting the inquiry, the committee is to seek information from government and non-government agencies, motoring and environmental organisations, local government, utility companies, the community and any other body responsible for the placement or removal of roadside objects. In particular, the committee is requested to examine practices in other jurisdictions.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

The Committee is recruiting for a research officer to assist with the two new inquiries.

RURAL AND REGIONAL SERVICES AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000

Telephone: 9651 3580 Facsimile: 9651 3691

Website: parliament..au/rrsdc

Email: rrsdc@parliament..au

Members:-

(Council) The Honourables J M McQuilten and R G Mitchell

(Assembly) Mr M Crutchfield, Mr B P Hardman, Mr C Ingram,

Hon Dr D N Napthine and Mr P L Walsh

Chair: Mr Ben Hardman MP

Interim Executive Officer: Mr Geoff Westcott

INQUIRY INTO COUNTRY FOOTBALL

Referred to the Committee by the Legislative Assembly on 3 June 2004, for inquiry, consideration and report to Parliament by 31 March 2004 on:

The impact on life in rural and regional Victoria of Australian Rules Football and, in conducting the Inquiry, the Committee is to:

(a) assess the current strength and long-term viability of Australian Football competitions and clubs in regional and rural Victoria;

(b) assess the role Australian Football plays in building community identity, social interaction and pride in rural towns. (This should be considered in conjunction with complementary long-term existing relationships with netball and cricket competitions.);

(c) investigate how demographic shifts, changes in sport and entertainment preferences and other social changes are impacting on participation in country based football;

(d) identify the effects that the decline in the number of rural Australian Football clubs is having on country towns including whether other sport and recreation clubs/activities are meeting community social needs in towns where the Australian Football clubs have ceased to function;

(e) identify the impact that specific costs are having on rural Australian Football associations and clubs. The costs to be investigated (but not necessarily restricted to) include insurance, local government charges and pricing policies, player payments and water availability and cost;

(f) recommend actions that peak football organisations (administrators, leagues and clubs) might consider undertaking to support the future success of country football and participation in sport in regional and rural Victoria

INQUIRY INTO REGIONAL TELECOMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE FOR BUSINESS

Referred to the Committee by Order in Council on 3 June 2003, for inquiry, consideration and report to Parliament by 30 September 2004 on:

The potential benefits to Victorian regional businesses from improved access to telecommunications infrastructure and services, in particular broadband infrastructure and services, and highlight any impediments that may stop businesses realising this potential. To this end, the Committee should consider the core issues of the:

1. current availability of telecommunication services at affordable prices for businesses in Victorian regional areas;

2. current availability of adequate telecommunications infrastructure for businesses in Victorian regional areas;

3. current level of competition in both the retail and wholesale telecommunications markets in Victorian regional areas;

4. current level of utilisation of available telecommunication infrastructure in regional Victoria;

5. effect that competition, in both the retail and wholesale telecommunications markets, has on the provision of telecommunication services to businesses in Victorian regional areas; and

6. effect that the current regulatory environment has on competition, in both the retail and wholesale telecommunications markets, in Victorian regional areas;

To make recommendations on any necessary or desirable actions that could be taken to assist Victorian regional businesses to be able to take advantage of any benefits from improved access to telecommunications infrastructure and services that may be identified.

The Committee should have regard to other reports that examine this matter in Victoria and other jurisdictions as well as on a national level and in particular:

1. The Telecommunications Services Inquiry 2000 (Besley);

2. The Regional Telecommunications Inquiry 2002 (Estens); and

3. “Australia’s Broadband Connectivity” 2003 (Broadband Advisory Group).

This Inquiry has been proposed to examine the above matters with a focus on identifying growth opportunities for Victorian regional businesses through improving access to telecommunication services and infrastructure by improving the Victorian regional telecommunication market environment.

INQUIRY INTO THE CAUSE OF FATALITY AND INJURY ON VICTORIAN FARMS

Referred to the Committee by Order in Council on 6 May 2003, for inquiry, consideration and report to Parliament by 31 December 2003.

Inquire into, consider and report to Parliament on the causes of fatality and injury on Victorian Farms as follows:

1 The main causes of fatality and injury on Victorian farms and other primary industries compared to other jurisdictions.

2 The matter and type of these injuries compared to other industries and jurisdictions.

Activity during June 2003

• Two new Terms of Reference received.

SCRUTINY OF ACTS AND REGULATIONS COMMITTEE

Level 8, 35 Spring Street, Melbourne 3000

Telephone: (03) 9651 4008 Facsimile: (03) 9651 3674

Website: parliament..au/sarc

Email: andrew.homer@.au (Scrutiny of Bills)

jenny.baker@.au (Scrutiny of Regulations)

simon.dinsberg@parliament..au (Administration)

Members:

(Council) The Hons. L. Argondizzo and A. P. Olexander.

(Assembly) Ms L. D’Ambrosio (Chair), Mr K. S. Jasper, Mr M. A. Leighton,

Mr P. J. Lockwood, Mr A. J. McIntosh, Mr J. Perera and

Mr M. H. Thompson (Deputy Chair).

Chair: Ms Lily D’Ambrosio MP

Executive Officer: Andrew Homer

SUBCOMMITTEES

Redundant Legislation Subcommittee

Mr Murray Thompson MLA (Chair)

Hon. Lidia Argondizzo MLC

Ms Lily D’Ambrosio MLA

Mr Michael Leighton MLA

Mr Andrew McIntosh MLA

Regulation Review Subcommittee

Mr Peter Lockwood MLA (Chair)

Ms Lily D’Ambrosio MLA

Mr Ken Jasper MLA

Hon. Andrew Olexander MLC

Mr Jude Perera MLA

FULL COMMITTEE

The Committee met on 2 June 2003 to consider Alert Digest No. 4 of 2003, concerning the following Bills:

Child Employment Bill

Firearms (Trafficking and Handgun Control) Bill

Terrorism (Community Protection) Bill

Wrongs and Limitation of Actions Acts (Insurance Reform) Bill

REDUNDANT LEGISLATION SUBCOMMITTEE

The Subcommittee did not meet in June.

REGULATION REVIEW SUBCOMMITTEE

The Subcommittee met on 17 June 2003 to consider the following Regulations:

Statutory Rules 2003

SR No. 19 — Public Authorities (Dividends) Regulations 2003

SR No. 23 — Agricultural Industry Development (Polls)(Amendment) Regulations 2003

SR No. 26 — Fair Trading (Product Information Standards)(Petrol) Regulations 2003

SR No. 28 – Goods (Recreational Services) Regulations 2003

SR No. 30 – Retail Leases Regulations 2003

SR No. 32 – Tobacco (Amendment) Regulations 2003

SR No. 33 – Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Infringement Notices)(Amendment) Regulations 2003

SR No. 34 – Agricultural and Veterinary Chemicals (Control of Use)(Amendment) Regulations 2003

SR No. 35 – Liquor Control Reform (Amendment) Regulations 2003

SR No. 36 – Road Safety (Vehicles)(Registration Fees) Regulations 2003

SR No. 37 – Livestock Disease Control (Amendment) Regulations 2003

SR No. 40 – Subordinate Legislation (Architects Regulations 1993 – Extension of Operation) Regulations 2003

SR No. 41 – Surveyors (Registration) Regulations 2003

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