❓ Opposition raises concerns about unpaid subcontractors on a Water Corporation project in Kununurra. Minister deflects blame to previous government, promises action via a task force and future legislation.
AnsweredQoN 252Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
(1) Is the minister aware of the problem at Kununurra regarding Glen Park Engineering Pty Ltd and the contract to construct a 6 300 cubic metre ground-level reinforced concrete storage tank, booster pump and pipeline? (2) If so, what action is he taking to assist the affected parties? (3) Is the minister taking any steps to ensure that subcontractors receive remuneration for services already provided? (4) If not, why not? Hon TOM STEPHENS
AnswerView source ↗
(1)-(4) This is a very interesting question, which details the issue of security of payment for people involved in the building industry, and deals with a particular contract let by the Water Corporation, as a trading enterprise, under the previous Government. It is a question that I pursued, with regard to the way in which that contract was allowed to operate by the previous Government, when I was in opposition. Since becoming Minister for Works and Services, I have continued to pursue the issue on the basis that it illustrates a whole industry challenge to get security of payment provisions. I have bolstered, with fresh determination, the work the previous Government started with the task force on this issue. I have appointed John Hyde, the member for Perth, to chair that task force, complete its work and bring forward legislation in response to these issues. John Hyde replaces Chris Baker in this capacity. The new chairman will bring the work of the task force to completion. The Government is committed to introducing legislation in accordance with its election commitments. I will continue to pursue this specific issue raised by the Leader of the Opposition, although it falls within the direct responsibility of the trading enterprise of the Water Corporation. As recently as last week I spoke to the managing director of the Water Corporation about the issue. I believe it highlights the sort of contempt the previous Government had for people, including members of its own political party, who in this case lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hon N.F. Moore: You are the Government now. What are you going to do about it? Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(2) If so, what action is he taking to assist the affected parties? (3) Is the minister taking any steps to ensure that subcontractors receive remuneration for services already provided? (4) If not, why not? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(4) This is a very interesting question, which details the issue of security of payment for people involved in the building industry, and deals with a particular contract let by the Water Corporation, as a trading enterprise, under the previous Government. It is a question that I pursued, with regard to the way in which that contract was allowed to operate by the previous Government, when I was in opposition. Since becoming Minister for Works and Services, I have continued to pursue the issue on the basis that it illustrates a whole industry challenge to get security of payment provisions. I have bolstered, with fresh determination, the work the previous Government started with the task force on this issue. I have appointed John Hyde, the member for Perth, to chair that task force, complete its work and bring forward legislation in response to these issues. John Hyde replaces Chris Baker in this capacity. The new chairman will bring the work of the task force to completion. The Government is committed to introducing legislation in accordance with its election commitments. I will continue to pursue this specific issue raised by the Leader of the Opposition, although it falls within the direct responsibility of the trading enterprise of the Water Corporation. As recently as last week I spoke to the managing director of the Water Corporation about the issue. I believe it highlights the sort of contempt the previous Government had for people, including members of its own political party, who in this case lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hon N.F. Moore: You are the Government now. What are you going to do about it? Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(3) Is the minister taking any steps to ensure that subcontractors receive remuneration for services already provided? (4) If not, why not? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(4) This is a very interesting question, which details the issue of security of payment for people involved in the building industry, and deals with a particular contract let by the Water Corporation, as a trading enterprise, under the previous Government. It is a question that I pursued, with regard to the way in which that contract was allowed to operate by the previous Government, when I was in opposition. Since becoming Minister for Works and Services, I have continued to pursue the issue on the basis that it illustrates a whole industry challenge to get security of payment provisions. I have bolstered, with fresh determination, the work the previous Government started with the task force on this issue. I have appointed John Hyde, the member for Perth, to chair that task force, complete its work and bring forward legislation in response to these issues. John Hyde replaces Chris Baker in this capacity. The new chairman will bring the work of the task force to completion. The Government is committed to introducing legislation in accordance with its election commitments. I will continue to pursue this specific issue raised by the Leader of the Opposition, although it falls within the direct responsibility of the trading enterprise of the Water Corporation. As recently as last week I spoke to the managing director of the Water Corporation about the issue. I believe it highlights the sort of contempt the previous Government had for people, including members of its own political party, who in this case lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hon N.F. Moore: You are the Government now. What are you going to do about it? Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(4) If not, why not? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(4) This is a very interesting question, which details the issue of security of payment for people involved in the building industry, and deals with a particular contract let by the Water Corporation, as a trading enterprise, under the previous Government. It is a question that I pursued, with regard to the way in which that contract was allowed to operate by the previous Government, when I was in opposition. Since becoming Minister for Works and Services, I have continued to pursue the issue on the basis that it illustrates a whole industry challenge to get security of payment provisions. I have bolstered, with fresh determination, the work the previous Government started with the task force on this issue. I have appointed John Hyde, the member for Perth, to chair that task force, complete its work and bring forward legislation in response to these issues. John Hyde replaces Chris Baker in this capacity. The new chairman will bring the work of the task force to completion. The Government is committed to introducing legislation in accordance with its election commitments. I will continue to pursue this specific issue raised by the Leader of the Opposition, although it falls within the direct responsibility of the trading enterprise of the Water Corporation. As recently as last week I spoke to the managing director of the Water Corporation about the issue. I believe it highlights the sort of contempt the previous Government had for people, including members of its own political party, who in this case lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hon N.F. Moore: You are the Government now. What are you going to do about it? Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(4) This is a very interesting question, which details the issue of security of payment for people involved in the building industry, and deals with a particular contract let by the Water Corporation, as a trading enterprise, under the previous Government. It is a question that I pursued, with regard to the way in which that contract was allowed to operate by the previous Government, when I was in opposition. Since becoming Minister for Works and Services, I have continued to pursue the issue on the basis that it illustrates a whole industry challenge to get security of payment provisions. I have bolstered, with fresh determination, the work the previous Government started with the task force on this issue. I have appointed John Hyde, the member for Perth, to chair that task force, complete its work and bring forward legislation in response to these issues. John Hyde replaces Chris Baker in this capacity. The new chairman will bring the work of the task force to completion. The Government is committed to introducing legislation in accordance with its election commitments. I will continue to pursue this specific issue raised by the Leader of the Opposition, although it falls within the direct responsibility of the trading enterprise of the Water Corporation. As recently as last week I spoke to the managing director of the Water Corporation about the issue. I believe it highlights the sort of contempt the previous Government had for people, including members of its own political party, who in this case lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hon N.F. Moore: You are the Government now. What are you going to do about it? Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(1)-(4) This is a very interesting question, which details the issue of security of payment for people involved in the building industry, and deals with a particular contract let by the Water Corporation, as a trading enterprise, under the previous Government. It is a question that I pursued, with regard to the way in which that contract was allowed to operate by the previous Government, when I was in opposition. Since becoming Minister for Works and Services, I have continued to pursue the issue on the basis that it illustrates a whole industry challenge to get security of payment provisions. I have bolstered, with fresh determination, the work the previous Government started with the task force on this issue. I have appointed John Hyde, the member for Perth, to chair that task force, complete its work and bring forward legislation in response to these issues. John Hyde replaces Chris Baker in this capacity. The new chairman will bring the work of the task force to completion. The Government is committed to introducing legislation in accordance with its election commitments. I will continue to pursue this specific issue raised by the Leader of the Opposition, although it falls within the direct responsibility of the trading enterprise of the Water Corporation. As recently as last week I spoke to the managing director of the Water Corporation about the issue. I believe it highlights the sort of contempt the previous Government had for people, including members of its own political party, who in this case lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hon N.F. Moore: You are the Government now. What are you going to do about it? Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(2) If so, what action is he taking to assist the affected parties? (3) Is the minister taking any steps to ensure that subcontractors receive remuneration for services already provided? (4) If not, why not? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(4) This is a very interesting question, which details the issue of security of payment for people involved in the building industry, and deals with a particular contract let by the Water Corporation, as a trading enterprise, under the previous Government. It is a question that I pursued, with regard to the way in which that contract was allowed to operate by the previous Government, when I was in opposition. Since becoming Minister for Works and Services, I have continued to pursue the issue on the basis that it illustrates a whole industry challenge to get security of payment provisions. I have bolstered, with fresh determination, the work the previous Government started with the task force on this issue. I have appointed John Hyde, the member for Perth, to chair that task force, complete its work and bring forward legislation in response to these issues. John Hyde replaces Chris Baker in this capacity. The new chairman will bring the work of the task force to completion. The Government is committed to introducing legislation in accordance with its election commitments. I will continue to pursue this specific issue raised by the Leader of the Opposition, although it falls within the direct responsibility of the trading enterprise of the Water Corporation. As recently as last week I spoke to the managing director of the Water Corporation about the issue. I believe it highlights the sort of contempt the previous Government had for people, including members of its own political party, who in this case lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hon N.F. Moore: You are the Government now. What are you going to do about it? Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(3) Is the minister taking any steps to ensure that subcontractors receive remuneration for services already provided? (4) If not, why not? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(4) This is a very interesting question, which details the issue of security of payment for people involved in the building industry, and deals with a particular contract let by the Water Corporation, as a trading enterprise, under the previous Government. It is a question that I pursued, with regard to the way in which that contract was allowed to operate by the previous Government, when I was in opposition. Since becoming Minister for Works and Services, I have continued to pursue the issue on the basis that it illustrates a whole industry challenge to get security of payment provisions. I have bolstered, with fresh determination, the work the previous Government started with the task force on this issue. I have appointed John Hyde, the member for Perth, to chair that task force, complete its work and bring forward legislation in response to these issues. John Hyde replaces Chris Baker in this capacity. The new chairman will bring the work of the task force to completion. The Government is committed to introducing legislation in accordance with its election commitments. I will continue to pursue this specific issue raised by the Leader of the Opposition, although it falls within the direct responsibility of the trading enterprise of the Water Corporation. As recently as last week I spoke to the managing director of the Water Corporation about the issue. I believe it highlights the sort of contempt the previous Government had for people, including members of its own political party, who in this case lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hon N.F. Moore: You are the Government now. What are you going to do about it? Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(4) If not, why not? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(4) This is a very interesting question, which details the issue of security of payment for people involved in the building industry, and deals with a particular contract let by the Water Corporation, as a trading enterprise, under the previous Government. It is a question that I pursued, with regard to the way in which that contract was allowed to operate by the previous Government, when I was in opposition. Since becoming Minister for Works and Services, I have continued to pursue the issue on the basis that it illustrates a whole industry challenge to get security of payment provisions. I have bolstered, with fresh determination, the work the previous Government started with the task force on this issue. I have appointed John Hyde, the member for Perth, to chair that task force, complete its work and bring forward legislation in response to these issues. John Hyde replaces Chris Baker in this capacity. The new chairman will bring the work of the task force to completion. The Government is committed to introducing legislation in accordance with its election commitments. I will continue to pursue this specific issue raised by the Leader of the Opposition, although it falls within the direct responsibility of the trading enterprise of the Water Corporation. As recently as last week I spoke to the managing director of the Water Corporation about the issue. I believe it highlights the sort of contempt the previous Government had for people, including members of its own political party, who in this case lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hon N.F. Moore: You are the Government now. What are you going to do about it? Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: (1)-(4) This is a very interesting question, which details the issue of security of payment for people involved in the building industry, and deals with a particular contract let by the Water Corporation, as a trading enterprise, under the previous Government. It is a question that I pursued, with regard to the way in which that contract was allowed to operate by the previous Government, when I was in opposition. Since becoming Minister for Works and Services, I have continued to pursue the issue on the basis that it illustrates a whole industry challenge to get security of payment provisions. I have bolstered, with fresh determination, the work the previous Government started with the task force on this issue. I have appointed John Hyde, the member for Perth, to chair that task force, complete its work and bring forward legislation in response to these issues. John Hyde replaces Chris Baker in this capacity. The new chairman will bring the work of the task force to completion. The Government is committed to introducing legislation in accordance with its election commitments. I will continue to pursue this specific issue raised by the Leader of the Opposition, although it falls within the direct responsibility of the trading enterprise of the Water Corporation. As recently as last week I spoke to the managing director of the Water Corporation about the issue. I believe it highlights the sort of contempt the previous Government had for people, including members of its own political party, who in this case lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hon N.F. Moore: You are the Government now. What are you going to do about it? Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(1)-(4) This is a very interesting question, which details the issue of security of payment for people involved in the building industry, and deals with a particular contract let by the Water Corporation, as a trading enterprise, under the previous Government. It is a question that I pursued, with regard to the way in which that contract was allowed to operate by the previous Government, when I was in opposition. Since becoming Minister for Works and Services, I have continued to pursue the issue on the basis that it illustrates a whole industry challenge to get security of payment provisions. I have bolstered, with fresh determination, the work the previous Government started with the task force on this issue. I have appointed John Hyde, the member for Perth, to chair that task force, complete its work and bring forward legislation in response to these issues. John Hyde replaces Chris Baker in this capacity. The new chairman will bring the work of the task force to completion. The Government is committed to introducing legislation in accordance with its election commitments. I will continue to pursue this specific issue raised by the Leader of the Opposition, although it falls within the direct responsibility of the trading enterprise of the Water Corporation. As recently as last week I spoke to the managing director of the Water Corporation about the issue. I believe it highlights the sort of contempt the previous Government had for people, including members of its own political party, who in this case lost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Hon N.F. Moore: You are the Government now. What are you going to do about it? Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon TOM STEPHENS: It was the previous Government that turned a complete deaf ear - Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Several members interjected. Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon TOM STEPHENS: The Leader of the Opposition should sit back and keep quiet for a minute. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! The Leader of the Opposition should come to order. I am trying to listen to an answer from the Minister for Works and Services, who I trust is concluding his answer. Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon TOM STEPHENS: That issue was raised by a local person in Kununurra, and despite the fact that she is a Liberal Party activist, it fell on deaf ears with the previous Government. Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Several members interjected. The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
The DEPUTY PRESIDENT: Order! Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon TOM STEPHENS: I am vigorously pursuing the issue and will bring it to resolution. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY COMMISSION, APPOINTMENTS 253. Hon BARRY HOUSE to the minister representing the Attorney General: When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
When will appointments to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal be confirmed? Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon N.D. GRIFFITHS replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
I thank the member for some notice of this question. The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
The Attorney General is currently considering a number of people who may be appointed to the Equal Opportunity Tribunal. Following consideration, the Attorney General will submit his recommendations to Cabinet. Appointments will be made as soon as possible. SOUTH WESTERN HIGHWAY 254. Hon CHRISTINE SHARP to the parliamentary secretary representing the Minister for Planning and Infrastructure: (1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(1) Does the figure of $38 million provided on page 38 of the Department of Resources Development’s “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” - presumably at the behest of the Department of Transport - accurately reflect the Main Roads budget for state roads, as opposed to local roads, required for blue gum plantations in the south west? If not, what is the current figure? (2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(2) How many overtaking lanes will be constructed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over the next three years? (3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(3) How much will these overtaking lanes cost? (4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(4) Will a highway bridge over the railway line south of Donnybrook be constructed? (5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(5) How much will the bridge cost? (6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(6) Are these expenditures included in the estimate mentioned in (1)? (7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(7) What other major state roads upgrade works will be required by Main Roads if the new woodchip-mill is located at Donnybrook? Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
Hon G.T. GIFFARD replied: I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
I thank the member for some notice of this question. (1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(1) Page 40 of the “Wood Processing Industry Development and Infrastructure Strategy and Action Plan” outlines a funding requirement of $37.8 million for state roads. This was based on estimates produced in 1999. Since that time a considerable amount of work has been done in reviewing road needs across the State. Currently there is an estimated $82 million need identified for state roads in the south west that are expected to carry significant tonnages of blue gum plantation timber. (2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(2) At this stage it is expected that three overtaking lanes will be installed on the South Western Highway between Donnybrook and Bridgetown over this period - one between Bendall and Donnybrook, another between Hesters and Bridgetown, and a third just north of Balingup. (3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(3) For budgetary purposes, a figure of $200 000 to $300 000 a kilometre is normally used and typical lanes are about one kilometre in length. However, the lane work north of Balingup has an estimated cost of $600 000 because it includes construction of a climbing lane, the extension of an existing lane in the opposite direction and some shoulder reconstruction. (4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(4) Construction of a bridge at the rail crossing just south of Donnybrook is being considered as part of the upgrading of South Western Highway. However, planning is in the early stages and no decisions on construction of the bridge have been made. (5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(5) Planning has not reached the stage where the bridge option could be costed. (6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(6) Funding for the overtaking lanes is included in the figure above, but the funding required for the bridge is not. (7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
(7) In Main Roads’ draft 2000 10-year road program there is provision for upgrading works to be undertaken on the Donnybrook-Kojonup road between Donnybrook and Boyup Brook. However, these funds are allocated in the latter half of the program and there may be need to advance these works if the woodchip-mill at Donnybrook proceeds.
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