Page 298 - Week 02 - Tuesday, 1 March 1994
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . .
I think it is an important announcement because the new Building Codes Board is a higher level body which has been established to consider building codes. We will be taking a national stance on that. Over the next five years the board will implement a major $2m a year program for the reform of building regulations. That is the level of commitment from governments around Australia - the Commonwealth, State and Territory governments - of which our share will be about $30,000 a year. It is part of the thrust that both Mr Connolly and I have taken over a period to ensure that our building codes are as efficient, as up to date, as money saving but yet as effective, as possible.
I might mention to the Assembly that not long ago Mr Connolly and I agreed that the building section would move from his department over to the Department of the Environment, Land and Planning because it is appropriate that those two bodies be in the one area. It will be not too long before we make the process more efficient. People coming in to make building applications will be able to have their applications dealt with on the one spot and perhaps by the one person, rather than having to run to two different points and two different bodies. I think the Building Codes Board, and our interest in it, is a further example of our intention to make building as good and as efficient as possible in this Territory. Mr Moore is going on and on over there. I cannot quite pick up what he is saying. Particular attention will be given to the reform of fire safety requirements - one of the most significant areas needing attention.
ACTTAB - Contract with VITAB Ltd
MR HUMPHRIES: My question is to the Deputy Chief Minister in his capacity as Minister for Sport. The Minister has carefully and helpfully explained to the Assembly that no inducements will be offered by VITAB to lure customers. Could he explain, therefore, why an Asian punter who wanted to bet on races in Australia would use VITAB rather than establishing, say, a telephone betting account with ACTTAB or VicTAB?
Ms Follett: They have a choice.
MR HUMPHRIES: Why go to VITAB then, another country?
MR BERRY: They have a choice and they make - - -
Mrs Carnell: Because they are offered better dividends.
MADAM SPEAKER: Order! Mr Berry has the floor.
MR BERRY: Whatever causes them to make the choice is a matter between them and VITAB. As far as Australia is concerned, and whether you like it or not, we have a letter that has been tabled and is on the record here that says that there will be no inducement offered in Australia. Whatever VITAB does overseas is a matter for them. What we do know is that it has been checked out here in the ACT by Treasury and by the Law Office, and already we are receiving the benefits. ACTTAB is already receiving the benefits.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Speeches . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . .