Page 2032 - Week 06 - Friday, 6 May 2005
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Roads—seat-belt compliance
(Question No 364)
Mrs Burke asked the Minister for Urban Services, upon notice, on 6 April 2005:
What scope is there for the ACT Government to consider permanently doubling the demerit points for not wearing a seat-belt in the ACT given that the non-compliance with seat-belt laws is one of the main causes of road death and injuries.
Mr Hargreaves: The answer to the member’s question is as follows:
The ACT is party to national road transport reforms, including national driver licensing arrangements and the National Demerit Point Scheme. This scheme relies on all jurisdictions recognising demerit points incurred in other states and territories in a consistent manner. The ACT applies demerit points to offences in line with the National Schedule of demerit points, in accordance with the Territory’s general approach of supporting regulatory consistency across jurisdictions. A move towards permanent doubling of demerit points for seat belt offences would be a significant change away from the existing national position.
It is important that national consistencies are maintained. This assists licence holders from all states and territories to be aware of their responsibilities as a driver and the consequences of failing to comply with road transport laws, regardless of where they are travelling.
Under current arrangements, double demerit points are applied to speeding and seat belt offences in NSW and the ACT on public holiday long weekends. One additional demerit point is applied to other traffic offences.
The existing double demerit point program has a high public profile and has significant resources committed to it. The introduction of permanent double demerit points for offences such as seat belt offences could reduce the opportunity double demerit periods provide to highlight road safety issues.
For these reasons, there are no plans to introduce double demerit points for seat belt offences on a permanent basis.
Community Linking and Needs Assessment Service
(Question No 365)
Mrs Burke asked the Minister for Disability, Housing and Community Services, upon notice, on 6 April 2005:
How has the Community Linking and Needs Assessment Service assisted applicants for Individual Support Packages during the most recent funding round who were unsuccessful in securing funding;
Mr Hargreaves: The answer to the member’s question is as follows:
The Community Linking and Needs Assessment Service (CLANAS) has no ongoing professional role for applicants of Individual Support Packages once the assessment is completed unless the Panel or the Minister requires any further information. However, CLANAS endeavoured to discuss alternate options with applicants in case they were
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