Page 507 - Week 02 - Wednesday, 17 February 2016

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bottom of the smell; we do not yet know what the cause is. But we continue to investigate. As I indicated last week, and my understanding is that it continues, we are talking to local residents; we are also monitoring operations at the Mugga Lane Resource Management Centre. I have personally communicated with Tuggeranong residents. I have not yet received anything directly into my office as far as I am aware. Certainly, if I do, I will respond to those complaints. I would again encourage people to contact me; and also if any members in this place have those complaints directly, forward them on to me so that I can respond.

MADAM SPEAKER: Supplementary question, Mr Smyth.

MR SMYTH: Minister, is the ACT government investigating the flushing of sewerage pipes in case that is the cause of the odour? When was the last time the sewerage pipes were flushed out in the Tuggeranong area?

MS FITZHARRIS: Yes, I understand that that has been looked at and work has been underway with Icon Water. But, again, I will take further advice on the specifics of the questions and report back to the chamber.

Crime—domestic violence

MRS JONES: My question is to the Attorney-General. Attorney, on 16 June 2015 the Canberra Times reported:

Creating a specialised domestic violence court focusing on victim welfare could help address the “most important social issue in Australia.

On 17 June 2015 a key ACT legal support service said that magistrates without an understanding of domestic violence put women at risk as they are unable to treat cases appropriately. What steps have been taken towards establishing a specialised domestic violence court?

MR CORBELL: I thank Mrs Jones for the question. It is not the government’s policy to establish such a court at this time.

MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mrs Jones.

MRS JONES: Minister, what has the government done to reduce the risk of women who have experienced domestic violence coming before our courts?

Mr Corbell: Coming from where?

MRS JONES: What has been done to reduce possibility of women being put at risk by being seen by inexperienced judiciary officers in this area, as these issues are coming before our courts?

MR CORBELL: I do not believe women suffering domestic violence are at risk from our magistrates.


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