❓ Question addresses mental health support for farmers during drought, highlighting government initiatives and acknowledging the high suicide rate among WA farmers. The Minister outlines various support programs and funding.
AnsweredQoN 606Legislative Assembly
QuestionView source ↗
secondary schoolS — year 7 students
I ask a supplementary question. Has the minister delayed making a decision about this matter at the request of the Premier or Treasury so that the expenditure that will be involved will not appear in the forward estimates? Dr E. CONSTABLE
I ask a supplementary question. Has the minister delayed making a decision about this matter at the request of the Premier or Treasury so that the expenditure that will be involved will not appear in the forward estimates? Dr E. CONSTABLE
AnswerView source ↗
No. DROUGHT — FARMER ASSISTANCE 2. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER to the Minister for Agriculture and Food: The mental health impacts on farmers during these hard times of drought have been well documented. In light of this week being Mental Health Week, will the minister outline to the house some of the help that the government is offering to farmers and their families? Mr D.T. REDMAN replied: I thank the member for Kalgoorlie for his question and for his interest in the challenging issues faced by farmers, particularly those in the south west agricultural regions of the state. As many people would be aware, Western Australia is experiencing an unprecedented dry season. It is not only the Wheatbelt that has been affected, which is often the focus of the media. Some pastoral areas in the southern rangelands up into the lower Murchison and into the Gascoyne and lower Pilbara are faced with challenging circumstances because of a lack of rain. Sometimes we forget that the level of water in irrigation dams in areas such as Manjimup and Bridgetown—which are in my electorate in the south west corner of the state—is the lowest it has ever been. We must understand the challenges faced by our rural communities, particularly those in agricultural communities. I thank the members who took the time to attend at five o’clock last night the briefing that I was able to offer about the current dry season and some of the responses we have put in place. This year’s weather has put many farmers under significant financial stress, particularly those in the Wheatbelt. It is more important than ever that we respond on a 24/7 basis during this difficult time. It is heartbreaking to learn that the rate of suicide for Western Australian male farm owners and managers is twice the rate of the national average. That sets up a mix of circumstances that we do not want, but it is important that we respond appropriately so that we can offer support and ensure that these people get through these challenging times. In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
Dr E. CONSTABLE replied: No. DROUGHT — FARMER ASSISTANCE 2. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER to the Minister for Agriculture and Food: The mental health impacts on farmers during these hard times of drought have been well documented. In light of this week being Mental Health Week, will the minister outline to the house some of the help that the government is offering to farmers and their families? Mr D.T. REDMAN replied: I thank the member for Kalgoorlie for his question and for his interest in the challenging issues faced by farmers, particularly those in the south west agricultural regions of the state. As many people would be aware, Western Australia is experiencing an unprecedented dry season. It is not only the Wheatbelt that has been affected, which is often the focus of the media. Some pastoral areas in the southern rangelands up into the lower Murchison and into the Gascoyne and lower Pilbara are faced with challenging circumstances because of a lack of rain. Sometimes we forget that the level of water in irrigation dams in areas such as Manjimup and Bridgetown—which are in my electorate in the south west corner of the state—is the lowest it has ever been. We must understand the challenges faced by our rural communities, particularly those in agricultural communities. I thank the members who took the time to attend at five o’clock last night the briefing that I was able to offer about the current dry season and some of the responses we have put in place. This year’s weather has put many farmers under significant financial stress, particularly those in the Wheatbelt. It is more important than ever that we respond on a 24/7 basis during this difficult time. It is heartbreaking to learn that the rate of suicide for Western Australian male farm owners and managers is twice the rate of the national average. That sets up a mix of circumstances that we do not want, but it is important that we respond appropriately so that we can offer support and ensure that these people get through these challenging times. In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
No. DROUGHT — FARMER ASSISTANCE 2. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER to the Minister for Agriculture and Food: The mental health impacts on farmers during these hard times of drought have been well documented. In light of this week being Mental Health Week, will the minister outline to the house some of the help that the government is offering to farmers and their families? Mr D.T. REDMAN replied: I thank the member for Kalgoorlie for his question and for his interest in the challenging issues faced by farmers, particularly those in the south west agricultural regions of the state. As many people would be aware, Western Australia is experiencing an unprecedented dry season. It is not only the Wheatbelt that has been affected, which is often the focus of the media. Some pastoral areas in the southern rangelands up into the lower Murchison and into the Gascoyne and lower Pilbara are faced with challenging circumstances because of a lack of rain. Sometimes we forget that the level of water in irrigation dams in areas such as Manjimup and Bridgetown—which are in my electorate in the south west corner of the state—is the lowest it has ever been. We must understand the challenges faced by our rural communities, particularly those in agricultural communities. I thank the members who took the time to attend at five o’clock last night the briefing that I was able to offer about the current dry season and some of the responses we have put in place. This year’s weather has put many farmers under significant financial stress, particularly those in the Wheatbelt. It is more important than ever that we respond on a 24/7 basis during this difficult time. It is heartbreaking to learn that the rate of suicide for Western Australian male farm owners and managers is twice the rate of the national average. That sets up a mix of circumstances that we do not want, but it is important that we respond appropriately so that we can offer support and ensure that these people get through these challenging times. In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
The mental health impacts on farmers during these hard times of drought have been well documented. In light of this week being Mental Health Week, will the minister outline to the house some of the help that the government is offering to farmers and their families? Mr D.T. REDMAN replied: I thank the member for Kalgoorlie for his question and for his interest in the challenging issues faced by farmers, particularly those in the south west agricultural regions of the state. As many people would be aware, Western Australia is experiencing an unprecedented dry season. It is not only the Wheatbelt that has been affected, which is often the focus of the media. Some pastoral areas in the southern rangelands up into the lower Murchison and into the Gascoyne and lower Pilbara are faced with challenging circumstances because of a lack of rain. Sometimes we forget that the level of water in irrigation dams in areas such as Manjimup and Bridgetown—which are in my electorate in the south west corner of the state—is the lowest it has ever been. We must understand the challenges faced by our rural communities, particularly those in agricultural communities. I thank the members who took the time to attend at five o’clock last night the briefing that I was able to offer about the current dry season and some of the responses we have put in place. This year’s weather has put many farmers under significant financial stress, particularly those in the Wheatbelt. It is more important than ever that we respond on a 24/7 basis during this difficult time. It is heartbreaking to learn that the rate of suicide for Western Australian male farm owners and managers is twice the rate of the national average. That sets up a mix of circumstances that we do not want, but it is important that we respond appropriately so that we can offer support and ensure that these people get through these challenging times. In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
Mr D.T. REDMAN replied: I thank the member for Kalgoorlie for his question and for his interest in the challenging issues faced by farmers, particularly those in the south west agricultural regions of the state. As many people would be aware, Western Australia is experiencing an unprecedented dry season. It is not only the Wheatbelt that has been affected, which is often the focus of the media. Some pastoral areas in the southern rangelands up into the lower Murchison and into the Gascoyne and lower Pilbara are faced with challenging circumstances because of a lack of rain. Sometimes we forget that the level of water in irrigation dams in areas such as Manjimup and Bridgetown—which are in my electorate in the south west corner of the state—is the lowest it has ever been. We must understand the challenges faced by our rural communities, particularly those in agricultural communities. I thank the members who took the time to attend at five o’clock last night the briefing that I was able to offer about the current dry season and some of the responses we have put in place. This year’s weather has put many farmers under significant financial stress, particularly those in the Wheatbelt. It is more important than ever that we respond on a 24/7 basis during this difficult time. It is heartbreaking to learn that the rate of suicide for Western Australian male farm owners and managers is twice the rate of the national average. That sets up a mix of circumstances that we do not want, but it is important that we respond appropriately so that we can offer support and ensure that these people get through these challenging times. In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
I thank the member for Kalgoorlie for his question and for his interest in the challenging issues faced by farmers, particularly those in the south west agricultural regions of the state. As many people would be aware, Western Australia is experiencing an unprecedented dry season. It is not only the Wheatbelt that has been affected, which is often the focus of the media. Some pastoral areas in the southern rangelands up into the lower Murchison and into the Gascoyne and lower Pilbara are faced with challenging circumstances because of a lack of rain. Sometimes we forget that the level of water in irrigation dams in areas such as Manjimup and Bridgetown—which are in my electorate in the south west corner of the state—is the lowest it has ever been. We must understand the challenges faced by our rural communities, particularly those in agricultural communities. I thank the members who took the time to attend at five o’clock last night the briefing that I was able to offer about the current dry season and some of the responses we have put in place. This year’s weather has put many farmers under significant financial stress, particularly those in the Wheatbelt. It is more important than ever that we respond on a 24/7 basis during this difficult time. It is heartbreaking to learn that the rate of suicide for Western Australian male farm owners and managers is twice the rate of the national average. That sets up a mix of circumstances that we do not want, but it is important that we respond appropriately so that we can offer support and ensure that these people get through these challenging times. In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
(1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
(2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
(3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
(1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
Dr E. CONSTABLE replied: No. DROUGHT — FARMER ASSISTANCE 2. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER to the Minister for Agriculture and Food: The mental health impacts on farmers during these hard times of drought have been well documented. In light of this week being Mental Health Week, will the minister outline to the house some of the help that the government is offering to farmers and their families? Mr D.T. REDMAN replied: I thank the member for Kalgoorlie for his question and for his interest in the challenging issues faced by farmers, particularly those in the south west agricultural regions of the state. As many people would be aware, Western Australia is experiencing an unprecedented dry season. It is not only the Wheatbelt that has been affected, which is often the focus of the media. Some pastoral areas in the southern rangelands up into the lower Murchison and into the Gascoyne and lower Pilbara are faced with challenging circumstances because of a lack of rain. Sometimes we forget that the level of water in irrigation dams in areas such as Manjimup and Bridgetown—which are in my electorate in the south west corner of the state—is the lowest it has ever been. We must understand the challenges faced by our rural communities, particularly those in agricultural communities. I thank the members who took the time to attend at five o’clock last night the briefing that I was able to offer about the current dry season and some of the responses we have put in place. This year’s weather has put many farmers under significant financial stress, particularly those in the Wheatbelt. It is more important than ever that we respond on a 24/7 basis during this difficult time. It is heartbreaking to learn that the rate of suicide for Western Australian male farm owners and managers is twice the rate of the national average. That sets up a mix of circumstances that we do not want, but it is important that we respond appropriately so that we can offer support and ensure that these people get through these challenging times. In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
No. DROUGHT — FARMER ASSISTANCE 2. Mr J.J.M. BOWLER to the Minister for Agriculture and Food: The mental health impacts on farmers during these hard times of drought have been well documented. In light of this week being Mental Health Week, will the minister outline to the house some of the help that the government is offering to farmers and their families? Mr D.T. REDMAN replied: I thank the member for Kalgoorlie for his question and for his interest in the challenging issues faced by farmers, particularly those in the south west agricultural regions of the state. As many people would be aware, Western Australia is experiencing an unprecedented dry season. It is not only the Wheatbelt that has been affected, which is often the focus of the media. Some pastoral areas in the southern rangelands up into the lower Murchison and into the Gascoyne and lower Pilbara are faced with challenging circumstances because of a lack of rain. Sometimes we forget that the level of water in irrigation dams in areas such as Manjimup and Bridgetown—which are in my electorate in the south west corner of the state—is the lowest it has ever been. We must understand the challenges faced by our rural communities, particularly those in agricultural communities. I thank the members who took the time to attend at five o’clock last night the briefing that I was able to offer about the current dry season and some of the responses we have put in place. This year’s weather has put many farmers under significant financial stress, particularly those in the Wheatbelt. It is more important than ever that we respond on a 24/7 basis during this difficult time. It is heartbreaking to learn that the rate of suicide for Western Australian male farm owners and managers is twice the rate of the national average. That sets up a mix of circumstances that we do not want, but it is important that we respond appropriately so that we can offer support and ensure that these people get through these challenging times. In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
The mental health impacts on farmers during these hard times of drought have been well documented. In light of this week being Mental Health Week, will the minister outline to the house some of the help that the government is offering to farmers and their families? Mr D.T. REDMAN replied: I thank the member for Kalgoorlie for his question and for his interest in the challenging issues faced by farmers, particularly those in the south west agricultural regions of the state. As many people would be aware, Western Australia is experiencing an unprecedented dry season. It is not only the Wheatbelt that has been affected, which is often the focus of the media. Some pastoral areas in the southern rangelands up into the lower Murchison and into the Gascoyne and lower Pilbara are faced with challenging circumstances because of a lack of rain. Sometimes we forget that the level of water in irrigation dams in areas such as Manjimup and Bridgetown—which are in my electorate in the south west corner of the state—is the lowest it has ever been. We must understand the challenges faced by our rural communities, particularly those in agricultural communities. I thank the members who took the time to attend at five o’clock last night the briefing that I was able to offer about the current dry season and some of the responses we have put in place. This year’s weather has put many farmers under significant financial stress, particularly those in the Wheatbelt. It is more important than ever that we respond on a 24/7 basis during this difficult time. It is heartbreaking to learn that the rate of suicide for Western Australian male farm owners and managers is twice the rate of the national average. That sets up a mix of circumstances that we do not want, but it is important that we respond appropriately so that we can offer support and ensure that these people get through these challenging times. In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
Mr D.T. REDMAN replied: I thank the member for Kalgoorlie for his question and for his interest in the challenging issues faced by farmers, particularly those in the south west agricultural regions of the state. As many people would be aware, Western Australia is experiencing an unprecedented dry season. It is not only the Wheatbelt that has been affected, which is often the focus of the media. Some pastoral areas in the southern rangelands up into the lower Murchison and into the Gascoyne and lower Pilbara are faced with challenging circumstances because of a lack of rain. Sometimes we forget that the level of water in irrigation dams in areas such as Manjimup and Bridgetown—which are in my electorate in the south west corner of the state—is the lowest it has ever been. We must understand the challenges faced by our rural communities, particularly those in agricultural communities. I thank the members who took the time to attend at five o’clock last night the briefing that I was able to offer about the current dry season and some of the responses we have put in place. This year’s weather has put many farmers under significant financial stress, particularly those in the Wheatbelt. It is more important than ever that we respond on a 24/7 basis during this difficult time. It is heartbreaking to learn that the rate of suicide for Western Australian male farm owners and managers is twice the rate of the national average. That sets up a mix of circumstances that we do not want, but it is important that we respond appropriately so that we can offer support and ensure that these people get through these challenging times. In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
I thank the member for Kalgoorlie for his question and for his interest in the challenging issues faced by farmers, particularly those in the south west agricultural regions of the state. As many people would be aware, Western Australia is experiencing an unprecedented dry season. It is not only the Wheatbelt that has been affected, which is often the focus of the media. Some pastoral areas in the southern rangelands up into the lower Murchison and into the Gascoyne and lower Pilbara are faced with challenging circumstances because of a lack of rain. Sometimes we forget that the level of water in irrigation dams in areas such as Manjimup and Bridgetown—which are in my electorate in the south west corner of the state—is the lowest it has ever been. We must understand the challenges faced by our rural communities, particularly those in agricultural communities. I thank the members who took the time to attend at five o’clock last night the briefing that I was able to offer about the current dry season and some of the responses we have put in place. This year’s weather has put many farmers under significant financial stress, particularly those in the Wheatbelt. It is more important than ever that we respond on a 24/7 basis during this difficult time. It is heartbreaking to learn that the rate of suicide for Western Australian male farm owners and managers is twice the rate of the national average. That sets up a mix of circumstances that we do not want, but it is important that we respond appropriately so that we can offer support and ensure that these people get through these challenging times. In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
In terms of the government’s response, members would be aware of the drought pilot that we were able to negotiate and put in place. I will highlight to the house some of its specific measures and support services. The first is farm family support, which is income support to help families meet basic household needs. It involves a Centrelink asset test, but that test has been relaxed under the drought pilot circumstances. I strongly urge farmers who think that they might fit that mould to not self-assess; rather, they should talk to a Centrelink person. A Centrelink person can visit their home and talk to them about their circumstances at their kitchen table. That is direct support. There is also farm social support. Centrelink-funded social workers offer a range of free and confidential counselling services for individuals, couples, family groups and children. Financial pressure affects not only the key people in a family unit, but the whole family unit. These services will help families to deal with the challenging circumstances that they face. Another service is eheadspace, which is an online counselling and information service for young people. It can be found at www.eheadspace.org.au. It can respond to that particular segment of the community that is often forgotten in these difficult times. The Liberal–National government has continued to co-fund the Rural Financial Counselling Program, which helps farmers sort out their affairs and advocates on their behalf. I am currently in discussions with the federal Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Senator Joe Ludwig, about support in that area beyond what we have in place now. The Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is another way in which we have been able to respond. Recently the Minister for Regional Development and I announced $2.78 million of royalties for regions funding to expand that service. It is vital to respond to challenges in environments in which people face a unique stress. That stress occurs from time to time, but in Western Australia right now that level of stress in many cases is unprecedented. That program is run through the Department of Agriculture and Food. It will ensure that the good work of the Wheatbelt Men’s Health program is ongoing. The program is tailored to specific community needs. It complements existing country health services to improve the quality of life for families and communities in regional locations. The initiative brings men together in a social and recreational environment, and that allows them to talk casually, to share experiences, to get help if required and to realise that they are not alone and that other people face the same challenges. A crisis-care line provides 24-hour support. In addition, we have released a pamphlet that lists a range of services. It comprises not only words and phone numbers. We have been able to ensure that sitting behind those numbers is the appropriate level of service and resources that will assist people to respond to the challenges that they face. I have spoken to many farmers. I know that they are struggling during this dry season. It is important that we are sensitive to those who are vulnerable. Moral support from city counterparts goes a long way towards making a big difference because they realise that they are not isolated or alone. From a man’s perspective, it is important that they talk to a mate if they are feeling isolated. They should not shy away from utilising the services that the government has been able to offer. The next six months in particular will be very challenging. What we have been able to put in place in a proactive way is a level of support that people know how to access. Our communication networks are such that they should know where to get the phone numbers that they need when they need them. TRANSFIELD SERVICES — HOUSING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT 3. Mr P.C. TINLEY to the Minister for Housing: I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
I refer to the $200 million housing maintenance contract awarded to Transfield Services this year. (1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
(1) Is the minister aware that under the Builders’ Registration Act 1939 it is an offence for a company that has entered into a building contract in Western Australia to not be registered? (2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
(2) Is the minister aware that Transfield Services is not registered with the Builders’ Registration Board of WA? (3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
(3) Why has the minister allowed his department to enter into a contract with Transfield Services without the company being registered? Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
Mr W.R. MARMION replied: I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
I thank the member for Willagee for this question. (1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
(1)–(3) Housing maintenance is an issue for this government, and it has been an issue for all past governments. It is an important challenge for all governments. It is important that governments get value for money for the dollar. Every dollar that I save on maintenance is a dollar that I can spend on a new house, which means we can reduce the waiting list. I will get to the specific question in a minute. I acknowledge that there had been some start-up issues with timeliness and payments with the 10 contracts that we are monitoring, but they are managed and now reaching key performance indicators very close to what the Department of Housing and the former Homeswest were achieving in the past. In response to the specific question, Transfield is managing the list. It is not a plumber or an electrician. If it employs people, under the contract they must be registered under the relevant act. Transfield is complying with state laws, as far as I am aware.
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