❓ Opposition questions the Minister for Education's refusal to debate Outcomes-Based Education (OBE) on public radio. The Minister defends her position by citing biased media coverage and tables a letter of apology from the ABC regarding a previous interview.
AnsweredQoN 362Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
OUTCOMES-BASED EDUCATION - PUBLIC DEBATE
My question is to the - The PRESIDENT : The member knows that he should not be reading a newspaper in this house. Does the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council have a question? Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I do, indeed, and it is to the Minister for Education and Training, whom I have spotted on the other side of the chamber. (1) Is it true that the minister refused to go on public radio this morning to debate OBE? (2) If so, why would the minister pass up an opportunity to communicate with the concerned public? (3) Would the minister prefer to be moved to a less demanding portfolio? The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH
My question is to the - The PRESIDENT : The member knows that he should not be reading a newspaper in this house. Does the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council have a question? Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I do, indeed, and it is to the Minister for Education and Training, whom I have spotted on the other side of the chamber. (1) Is it true that the minister refused to go on public radio this morning to debate OBE? (2) If so, why would the minister pass up an opportunity to communicate with the concerned public? (3) Would the minister prefer to be moved to a less demanding portfolio? The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH
AnswerView source ↗
(1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
The PRESIDENT : The member knows that he should not be reading a newspaper in this house. Does the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council have a question? Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I do, indeed, and it is to the Minister for Education and Training, whom I have spotted on the other side of the chamber. (1) Is it true that the minister refused to go on public radio this morning to debate OBE? (2) If so, why would the minister pass up an opportunity to communicate with the concerned public? (3) Would the minister prefer to be moved to a less demanding portfolio? The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I do, indeed, and it is to the Minister for Education and Training, whom I have spotted on the other side of the chamber. (1) Is it true that the minister refused to go on public radio this morning to debate OBE? (2) If so, why would the minister pass up an opportunity to communicate with the concerned public? (3) Would the minister prefer to be moved to a less demanding portfolio? The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
(1) Is it true that the minister refused to go on public radio this morning to debate OBE? (2) If so, why would the minister pass up an opportunity to communicate with the concerned public? (3) Would the minister prefer to be moved to a less demanding portfolio? The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
(2) If so, why would the minister pass up an opportunity to communicate with the concerned public? (3) Would the minister prefer to be moved to a less demanding portfolio? The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
(3) Would the minister prefer to be moved to a less demanding portfolio? The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
(1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
[See paper 1555.]
The PRESIDENT : The member knows that he should not be reading a newspaper in this house. Does the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council have a question? Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I do, indeed, and it is to the Minister for Education and Training, whom I have spotted on the other side of the chamber. (1) Is it true that the minister refused to go on public radio this morning to debate OBE? (2) If so, why would the minister pass up an opportunity to communicate with the concerned public? (3) Would the minister prefer to be moved to a less demanding portfolio? The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I do, indeed, and it is to the Minister for Education and Training, whom I have spotted on the other side of the chamber. (1) Is it true that the minister refused to go on public radio this morning to debate OBE? (2) If so, why would the minister pass up an opportunity to communicate with the concerned public? (3) Would the minister prefer to be moved to a less demanding portfolio? The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
(1) Is it true that the minister refused to go on public radio this morning to debate OBE? (2) If so, why would the minister pass up an opportunity to communicate with the concerned public? (3) Would the minister prefer to be moved to a less demanding portfolio? The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
(2) If so, why would the minister pass up an opportunity to communicate with the concerned public? (3) Would the minister prefer to be moved to a less demanding portfolio? The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
(3) Would the minister prefer to be moved to a less demanding portfolio? The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
The PRESIDENT : I call on the Minister for Education and Training. The third part of the question verges on being out of order. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH replied: (1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
(1)-(3) One of the things about the debate on outcomes and standards implementation into years 11 and 12 and the new courses of study is that it seems to me that the media has taken a certain position on both these issues. It certainly has been very dogged in wanting to effect a policy shift. The responsibility of government is to put its policy position on the line and, basically, make sure that the policy is implemented. I was not asked to go on radio this morning. If I thought that I would get at least a fair hearing - I want to table something - Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon Norman Moore : Is it the last complaint you made? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : Hang on! Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon Simon O’Brien : Did you say you were not invited? Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I was not invited; Paul Albert was invited. Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Mr President, please bear with me because I refer to a reply to a letter that my press officer wrote to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation on 30 August 2005 about the way in which Mr Liam Bartlett dealt with an interview on his radio station. The letter reads - Dear Mr Monaghan Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention. Mr President, I thank you for your indulgence. This is what goes on day in, day out. I thought we had a responsibility to the Western Australian public, whether through print media or radio, to present both sides of the argument. Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Thank you for your letter regarding an interview with Mr Kevin Donnelly on 29 June on the 720 ABC Perth Mornings program. The matter has been referred to me for response, and I regret the delay in doing so. As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
As presenter of the Morning program Liam Bartlett is required under the ABC’s Charter of Editorial Practice to refrain from editorialising during his coverage of current affairs issues. ABC Local Radio acknowledges that the Mornings program should have presented an alternate opinion to those expressed by Mr Donnelly on 29 June. The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
The ABC also believes that Mr Bartlett should have declared Mr Donnelly’s affiliations with the Australian Liberal Party prior to the interview. Regrettably, this did not occur. Furthermore, as Mr Bartlett covered Outcome Based Education (OBE) in his Sunday Times editorial piece, the ABC recognises that this may have given listeners the impression that he would not provide impartial coverage of the issue on the Morning program. On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
On behalf of the ABC, please accept my apologies for these lapses in program standards. Mr Bartlett has been formally counselled by ABC Local Radio management regarding this matter. It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
It should be noted that prior to the interview, Mornings producer Alicia Hanson spoke with your colleague Marie Mills and explained the format of Mr Bartlett’s interview with Mr Donnelly. Via Ms Mills, Ms Hanson invited Greg Robson to call the program to voice his views. Ms Hanson provided the studio phone number to Ms Mills to enable this to take place. When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
When Mr Robson failed to call the program, Ms Hanson rang the Minister’s office to speak with you. As your phone was engaged, Ms Hanson left an urgent message with reception. It is unfortunate that Mr Robson did not call the studio until well after the segment had concluded. Nonetheless, I acknowledge that an appropriate time should have been arranged for Mr Robson, or for an alternative Government representative, to appear on the program. Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
Thank you for writing and bringing this matter to the ABC’s attention.
Hon Simon O’Brien : Why not go on and say so. The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
The PRESIDENT : The Deputy Leader of the Opposition has asked the question and he is getting an answer. Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : With letters of apology like this and incorrect reporting - I can quote other examples of where the media has got it wrong - I ask whether this is in the best interests of the Western Australian public? Surely the media has an obligation to report accurately. Point of Order Hon SIMON O’BRIEN : I ask for the document from which the minister quoted extensively to be tabled. The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
The PRESIDENT : I think the minister indicated that she would table it. Questions without Notice Resumed Hon LJILJANNA RAVLICH : I seek to table that letter. [See paper 1555.]
[See paper 1555.]
Explore WA Government Data
Search the full archive in the free dashboard, or query programmatically via API.
Explore more
Government Gazette
Appointments, regulatory notices, planning changes.
Hansard
Debates, questions, speeches and sentiment.
Tabled Papers
Reports and documents tabled in Parliament.
Committees
Committee profiles and recent reports.
Regulations
Subsidiary legislation with filters and summaries.
Bills
Proposed laws and parliamentary progress.
Acts
Current WA legislation and summaries.
Explanatory Memoranda
Bills with EMs (text/PDF) available.
Members
MP profiles, party breakdown and rankings.
Pollie Rankings
Data-driven rankings across 19 categories.
Amendment Chains
Track how schemes and regulations evolve over time.