Page 2133 - Week 07 - Thursday, 23 August 2007

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What was the total cost including (a) any obligations arising from the final judgement, (b) counsel’s fees, (c) nominal cost of ACT Government Solicitor’s services and (d) court costs arising from the ACT’s decision to intervene in the High Court challenge brought by the States against the WorkChoices legislation.

Mr Barr: The answer to the member’s question is as follows:

The total cost was $89,885.80.

To break this down according to the Member’s categories:

(a) There was no cost in relation to any obligations arising from the final judgement. The ACT supported by all the States and Northern Territory, have submitted that the normal rule that an intervener should not have to pay costs, should apply in this case. There has been no response from the Commonwealth yet.

(b) Counsel’s fees and expenses were $57,195.80.

(d) There were no court costs arising from the ACT's decision to intervene in the High Court challenge brought by the States against the WorkChoices legislation. The normal rule for an intervener in proceedings is that no cost is payable. The ACT, the States and Northern Territory have submitted to the Commonwealth that this normal rule should apply.

Cooleman Ridge

(Question No 1613)

Dr Foskey asked the Minister for the Environment, Water and Climate Change, upon notice, on 5 June 2007:

(1) Why has the Government appointed the same private company that will be clearing the land on Cooleman Ridge in Weston Creek to undertake the consultation process;

(2) Why did the Government fail to include a proposed helipad in the public display in relation to Cooleman Ridge;

(3) How did the Government consult with the local community in relation to the helipad;

(4) Has the Government taken advice of peak groups, such as the Cooleman Ridge Park Care Group, with regard to the proposed helipad and the clearing on Cooleman Ridge.

Mr Stanhope: The answer to the member’s question is as follows:

(1) Cooleman Ridge is currently going through the planning phase for proposed works to reduce fuel loads as required by the Strategic Bushfire Management Plan. As Cooleman Ridge is designated land under the National Capital Plan, the proposed works require approval from the National Capital Authority. Cooleman Ridge also includes communities and species listed under the Commonwealth Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act and as such approval for the proposed

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