Page 3126 - Week 08 - Thursday, 7 August 2008

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poor condition the inspector may use an enforcement tool outlined above in order to minimise the risk posed by the substance. Depending on the state of the asbestos and the risk it poses this may or may not include removal.

Generally, individual homeowners are required to arrange for appropriate maintenance or to have asbestos removed by a licensed asbestos removalist (refer to the ACTPLA website; www.actpla.act.gov.au). If, following an inspection, a resident is not satisfied with the outcome they are encouraged to call the ORS telephone number and discuss their concerns with an inspector.

Education—outdoor programs
(Question No 2079)

Mr Mulcahy asked the Minister for Education and Training, upon notice, on 17 June 2008:

(1) Has the ACT Government considered implementing Outward Bound style outdoor programs in ACT government secondary schools;

(2) What outdoor programs currently exist in government schools;

(3) Will the Government consider providing funding for similar activities in government schools, in light of the existence of successful Outward Bound programs in non-government schools.

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

(1) Most ACT public high schools and colleges already implement outdoor education programs providing valuable outdoor experiences for students through excursions and camps. Also, the Birrigai Outdoor School delivers quality outdoor programs, for both ACT public and non-government schools, as well as corporate groups.

(2) A large range of outdoor education programs are currently offered in ACT public schools. These include snowboarding, caving, skiing, diving, climbing, bushwalking, snorkelling, canoeing, camping and high ropes. A number of schools and colleges offer the Duke of Edinburgh Award which requires students to journey in an unfamiliar environment, requiring determination, physical effort, perseverance and cooperation.

Birrigai Outdoor School offers outdoor programs in bushwalking, ropes courses, rock climbing and abseiling. Schools may choose to use the Birrigai Outdoor School or an approved provider, such as Outward Bound, to lead the provision of their outdoor education program.

ACT public primary schools implement outdoor education programs with a specific focus on environmental education. Programs offered by the Birrigai Outdoor School complement these programs and are regularly accessed by primary schools.

(3) ACT schools receive funding under School Based Management to address the education needs of students. Each school is responsible for determining the priorities for the use of this funding. Schools wanting to implement Outward Bound style programs are able to allocate funding to do so.


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