Page 3016 - Week 08 - Thursday, 15 August 2019

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This government knows that many community groups have formed relationships with clubs that are supportive, and we want the community contributions scheme to keep on working for those groups. We also want it to reach even more people who are in need of support.

That is why we engage clearly and strongly with clubs and with community groups to reform the scheme. It is now more transparent, it gives clearer guidance to clubs and, most importantly, it supports them to give even more support to those who need it most. As a whole, our policy approach to gaming shows that we are committed to ensuring the maximum possible benefits for those who need the help most.

We will keep working collaboratively with clubs and with the community to deliver on our promises and to do it in a way that promotes a sustainable, diverse and even more community-focused club sector.

Mr Barr: Madam Speaker, I will not invoke the Parton rule, but I will ask that all further questions be placed on the notice paper.

Supplementary answers to questions without notice

Canberra Hospital—emergency department

Aboriginals and Torres Strait Islanders—health funding

Chief Health Officer—recruitment

MS STEPHEN-SMITH: I was asked at the beginning of question time whether the emergency department at Canberra Hospital was closed or was on bypass. The emergency department at Canberra Hospital was not on bypass at that time, is not on bypass and it certainly is not closed.

I have been given to understand that at least one member of the opposition has tweeted that the emergency department at the Canberra Hospital is closed. I need to be very clear with the Assembly that even were an emergency department on bypass for ambulances it is still open for walk-ins. Our emergency department is not closed. I strongly encourage members of this Assembly not to mislead the public about the availability of health services in our city as this could actually be quite dangerous for people.

We of course encourage people who do not need to go to the emergency department to seek treatment in a walk-in centre or go to their GP, particularly when the emergency department is busy. But those people who need to go to the emergency department should go there. And it is open for them.

On another matter arising from question time today, I can confirm that the Winnunga Nimmityjah funding for their building project was indeed brought forward to reflect the milestones in the executed deed of grant with Winnunga.

I can also advise, in relation to the recruitment of the Chief Health Officer, that a number of processes have been undertaken since March 2019 to ensure that the Health Directorate is in a position to successfully recruit to the role. An in-depth review of


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