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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 2002 Week 9 Hansard (21 August) . . Page.. 2787 ..

(6) How many people - adults and children - live at the site.

Mr Stanhope: The answers to the member's questions are as follows:

Questions (1) and (6) - I am unaware of the exact number of adults and children at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy. It is difficult to accurately estimate the number of people at the tent embassy at any one time. While I am advised that there are approximately six resident Aboriginal people, its numbers fluctuate with transient people visiting Canberra for rallies held at the Tent Embassy. This is because the Aboriginal Tent Embassy is recognised nationally as a site representing the political struggle for all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and attracts many indigenous and non-indigenous people from many different communities to Canberra throughout the year.

Question (2)(a) - ACT Family Services provides child protection services across the ACT including National Land located within the Territory. This service is governed by the Children and Young People Act 1999. Child Protection appraisals are undertaken in situations where there are specific allegations of non-accident, significant harm or likelihood of significant harm to children up to the age of 18 years. Any allegations of harm to children should be forwarded to ACT Family Services for their action.

Question (2)(b) - I am unaware of which schools are attended by any children that may be at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy. I am advised that where concerns are raised about children not attending school, officers from the Department of Education, Youth and Family Services will investigate the circumstances with the child's parents or guardians.

Question (2)(c) - I am advised that the Department of Education, Youth and Family Services is unaware of the truancy of any children that may be at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy.

Question 3 - See Question 2 above.

Question (4)(a) and (5) - I am unaware of any evidence of drug use or abuse at the Aboriginal Tent Embassy.

Question (4)(b) - The Australian Federal Police is responsible for policing of the parliamentary precinct. Therefore, I suggest you refer any drug related or criminal matter to the Australian Federal Police.

Housing-occupant debt

(Question No 250)

Mr Cornwell asked the Minister for Disability, Housing and Community Services, upon notice, on 21 August 2002:

What is the total amount of occupant debt in ACT Housing Trust properties at 30 June 2002.

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