❓ Opposition questions the Premier's decision to not appoint a dedicated Minister for Mines, implying a lack of government support for the mining industry. The government defends its commitment by highlighting initiatives and a consolidated ministerial approach.
AnsweredQoN 11Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
(1) Is the Premier aware that his Cabinet is the first in over 100 years to not have a designated Minister for Mines? (2) Does the absence of a designated Minister for Mines represent an oversight on the Premier’s part, or does it reflect the Government’s lack of interest in the support of the mining industry? (3) Will the Premier correct this situation and appoint a Minister for Mines in the same way that he belatedly appointed a Minister for Tourism? Hon KIM CHANCE
AnswerView source ↗
I thank the member for some notice of this question. I find it a little strange to be subject to an element of criticism for starting question time early, particularly when, after all these years we have asked the Leader of the Opposition to extend question time, and find that on the second day of Parliament, when we do extend question time by nine minutes, we get complaints from the Leader of the Opposition. I will, however, continue with the answer. (1)-(3) The Government’s strong commitment to the mining industry is well known and was undoubtedly reflected in its election commitments, which include: Establishing a local office of the Department of Resources Development for more effective access by mining and exploration companies; and providing $1.8 million to assist with the realignment of the Goldfields Eastern Bypass road, thereby extending the life of the Super Pit mine; Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
(2) Does the absence of a designated Minister for Mines represent an oversight on the Premier’s part, or does it reflect the Government’s lack of interest in the support of the mining industry? (3) Will the Premier correct this situation and appoint a Minister for Mines in the same way that he belatedly appointed a Minister for Tourism? Hon KIM CHANCE replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I find it a little strange to be subject to an element of criticism for starting question time early, particularly when, after all these years we have asked the Leader of the Opposition to extend question time, and find that on the second day of Parliament, when we do extend question time by nine minutes, we get complaints from the Leader of the Opposition. I will, however, continue with the answer. (1)-(3) The Government’s strong commitment to the mining industry is well known and was undoubtedly reflected in its election commitments, which include: Establishing a local office of the Department of Resources Development for more effective access by mining and exploration companies; and providing $1.8 million to assist with the realignment of the Goldfields Eastern Bypass road, thereby extending the life of the Super Pit mine; Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
(3) Will the Premier correct this situation and appoint a Minister for Mines in the same way that he belatedly appointed a Minister for Tourism? Hon KIM CHANCE replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I find it a little strange to be subject to an element of criticism for starting question time early, particularly when, after all these years we have asked the Leader of the Opposition to extend question time, and find that on the second day of Parliament, when we do extend question time by nine minutes, we get complaints from the Leader of the Opposition. I will, however, continue with the answer. (1)-(3) The Government’s strong commitment to the mining industry is well known and was undoubtedly reflected in its election commitments, which include: Establishing a local office of the Department of Resources Development for more effective access by mining and exploration companies; and providing $1.8 million to assist with the realignment of the Goldfields Eastern Bypass road, thereby extending the life of the Super Pit mine; Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
Hon KIM CHANCE replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I find it a little strange to be subject to an element of criticism for starting question time early, particularly when, after all these years we have asked the Leader of the Opposition to extend question time, and find that on the second day of Parliament, when we do extend question time by nine minutes, we get complaints from the Leader of the Opposition. I will, however, continue with the answer. (1)-(3) The Government’s strong commitment to the mining industry is well known and was undoubtedly reflected in its election commitments, which include: Establishing a local office of the Department of Resources Development for more effective access by mining and exploration companies; and providing $1.8 million to assist with the realignment of the Goldfields Eastern Bypass road, thereby extending the life of the Super Pit mine; Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
I thank the member for some notice of this question. I find it a little strange to be subject to an element of criticism for starting question time early, particularly when, after all these years we have asked the Leader of the Opposition to extend question time, and find that on the second day of Parliament, when we do extend question time by nine minutes, we get complaints from the Leader of the Opposition. I will, however, continue with the answer. (1)-(3) The Government’s strong commitment to the mining industry is well known and was undoubtedly reflected in its election commitments, which include: Establishing a local office of the Department of Resources Development for more effective access by mining and exploration companies; and providing $1.8 million to assist with the realignment of the Goldfields Eastern Bypass road, thereby extending the life of the Super Pit mine; Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
(1)-(3) The Government’s strong commitment to the mining industry is well known and was undoubtedly reflected in its election commitments, which include: Establishing a local office of the Department of Resources Development for more effective access by mining and exploration companies; and providing $1.8 million to assist with the realignment of the Goldfields Eastern Bypass road, thereby extending the life of the Super Pit mine; Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
(2) Does the absence of a designated Minister for Mines represent an oversight on the Premier’s part, or does it reflect the Government’s lack of interest in the support of the mining industry? (3) Will the Premier correct this situation and appoint a Minister for Mines in the same way that he belatedly appointed a Minister for Tourism? Hon KIM CHANCE replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I find it a little strange to be subject to an element of criticism for starting question time early, particularly when, after all these years we have asked the Leader of the Opposition to extend question time, and find that on the second day of Parliament, when we do extend question time by nine minutes, we get complaints from the Leader of the Opposition. I will, however, continue with the answer. (1)-(3) The Government’s strong commitment to the mining industry is well known and was undoubtedly reflected in its election commitments, which include: Establishing a local office of the Department of Resources Development for more effective access by mining and exploration companies; and providing $1.8 million to assist with the realignment of the Goldfields Eastern Bypass road, thereby extending the life of the Super Pit mine; Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
(3) Will the Premier correct this situation and appoint a Minister for Mines in the same way that he belatedly appointed a Minister for Tourism? Hon KIM CHANCE replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I find it a little strange to be subject to an element of criticism for starting question time early, particularly when, after all these years we have asked the Leader of the Opposition to extend question time, and find that on the second day of Parliament, when we do extend question time by nine minutes, we get complaints from the Leader of the Opposition. I will, however, continue with the answer. (1)-(3) The Government’s strong commitment to the mining industry is well known and was undoubtedly reflected in its election commitments, which include: Establishing a local office of the Department of Resources Development for more effective access by mining and exploration companies; and providing $1.8 million to assist with the realignment of the Goldfields Eastern Bypass road, thereby extending the life of the Super Pit mine; Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
Hon KIM CHANCE replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. I find it a little strange to be subject to an element of criticism for starting question time early, particularly when, after all these years we have asked the Leader of the Opposition to extend question time, and find that on the second day of Parliament, when we do extend question time by nine minutes, we get complaints from the Leader of the Opposition. I will, however, continue with the answer. (1)-(3) The Government’s strong commitment to the mining industry is well known and was undoubtedly reflected in its election commitments, which include: Establishing a local office of the Department of Resources Development for more effective access by mining and exploration companies; and providing $1.8 million to assist with the realignment of the Goldfields Eastern Bypass road, thereby extending the life of the Super Pit mine; Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
I thank the member for some notice of this question. I find it a little strange to be subject to an element of criticism for starting question time early, particularly when, after all these years we have asked the Leader of the Opposition to extend question time, and find that on the second day of Parliament, when we do extend question time by nine minutes, we get complaints from the Leader of the Opposition. I will, however, continue with the answer. (1)-(3) The Government’s strong commitment to the mining industry is well known and was undoubtedly reflected in its election commitments, which include: Establishing a local office of the Department of Resources Development for more effective access by mining and exploration companies; and providing $1.8 million to assist with the realignment of the Goldfields Eastern Bypass road, thereby extending the life of the Super Pit mine; Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
(1)-(3) The Government’s strong commitment to the mining industry is well known and was undoubtedly reflected in its election commitments, which include: Establishing a local office of the Department of Resources Development for more effective access by mining and exploration companies; and providing $1.8 million to assist with the realignment of the Goldfields Eastern Bypass road, thereby extending the life of the Super Pit mine; Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
Hon N.F. Moore: The previous Government did that. Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
Hon KIM CHANCE: It did not pay for it, like many other things. Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
Several members interjected. The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
The PRESIDENT: Order! Order! Members, this is only the second day of the sitting. I said yesterday that the Government may have changed but the rules have not. Question time in the past has been taken in relative silence, and when one or two members have gone out of their way to disrupt question time, members will recall that on occasions they were not given an opportunity to ask a question. I say to all members that we should adhere to the current rules, and not have interjections. I already have a list of members wishing to ask questions, and we obviously shall not get through them if there are interjections right through question time. Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
Hon KIM CHANCE: The Government has demonstrated its commitment further by establishing a parliamentary committee to inquire into and report on the effect of long working hours on the health, safety and wellbeing of employees in the mining industry, their families and their communities; ending the delays in issuing mineral titles by issuing section 29 notices under the Native Title Act without delay; convening negotiations between relevant groups to develop mutually acceptable template native title agreements to facilitate negotiations on individual titles; supporting the negotiation of regional agreements designed to facilitate early consideration of native title issues where applications are made for exploration licences or mining leases; negotiating with peak industry and native title bodies to seek agreement for the introduction of a low impact exploration law; and contributing an additional $20 million over the four-year forward estimates to the Department of Minerals and Energy’s Geological Survey of Western Australia service to assist mineral and petroleum exporters. The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
The ministerial arrangements which have been put in place by this Government, with one minister having responsibility for the key areas of economic activity incorporated within the state development portfolio, will provide significant administrative and policy synergies. The benefits to the different sectors of the economy, including the mining industry, resulting from this consolidation were not possible under the fragmented approach of the previous Government.
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.