Page 1917 - Week 07 - Wednesday, 16 June 1993
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It is absurd to suggest that the rate of tax that the ACT Government extracts from the petrol industry is a reason for a higher price for petrol in Canberra, because the rate of tax that is taken in the ACT is lower - lower, Mr De Domenico - than the rate of tax in New South Wales.
We have a major problem with petrol pricing. I will be announcing shortly in a ministerial statement the Government's response to that; but, in terms of advice to consumers, I always advise consumers, whatever the product, to shop around for the best price.
MR WESTENDE: I ask a supplementary question. Would the Minister agree that it does not hurt the oil companies; it hurts the small service station operators when the Minister advocates that motorists go interstate? It is the small service station that can ill afford that revenue, even if the Government could afford to forgo the 3c.
MR CONNOLLY: The oil companies treat the Canberra market with contempt.
Mr De Domenico: Take on the oil companies.
MR CONNOLLY: That is what we are about to start doing in a very short time. It is a market which they assume will take any treatment that is handed out to it. If they start to see that consumers respond here, they might start to treat this market like they treat other markets - and that is, respond to consumer demands.
Ms Follett: I ask that further questions be placed on the notice paper.
Swimming Pool Charges
MR BERRY: Madam Speaker, in relation to a question asked by Mr Cornwell, I can provide the following further information. Current lane hire fees for swimming clubs at the Olympic pool are $6 per half-hour, with the first two lanes being free of charge. The availability of free lanes has to be reviewed against the high level of demand for access to water space by swimming clubs and other aquatic sports and user groups. There is high demand for swimming space in the ACT.
Mr De Domenico: At 6 o'clock in the morning?
MR BERRY: When was the last time you were down at the pool at 6 o'clock in the morning?
Mr De Domenico: Yesterday.
MR BERRY: Driving past it. I have already mentioned the fact that there is a review of fees and charges going on at present. It also has to be said that this Government has done more for swimming space in the ACT than any other in history. Mr Humphries, you can grin; but this Government has done more for swimming space in the ACT than any other. We have provided the Australian Capital Territory - - -
Mr Humphries: You implemented our plans for a Tuggeranong pool. What are you talking about?
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