Page 1340 - Week 05 - Tuesday, 9 April 2013
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think this is a sensible addition to the scheme that will make administration easier for government. Importantly, this will also simplify the process of people who have fines, particularly if those fines are split between the two authorities under the acts—that is, the police and the RTA.
The remaining amendments regarding flexible infringement payments are relatively minor. As I mentioned, for example, the amendments move some detail into regulation where it can be more easily modified if future administrative changes are needed. I note also that my office has consulted community groups about the minor amendments proposed in the current bill before the Assembly. Key groups with an interest in the scheme, such as Street Law and CARE, are supportive of the amendments.
The other key change presented in this bill is a new proposal that I am very pleased the government has brought forward. It makes changes to the automatic licence disqualification provisions for the drive while suspended offence and adds some much needed flexibility. This is a change that has been needed for some time, and it was a need that was flagged by the Greens last year.
An ACT magistrate was reported as commenting on this area of the law last year, describing the existing system as a sledgehammer approach that is creating a lot of injustice. I note that Andrew Fraser, a local criminal barrister, praised the changes in a Canberra Times article last week. He pointed out the existing system was incongruous and also at odds with other penalties on the statute book.
The explanatory statement sums up this proposal appropriately. It says that reforming the penalties for suspended driving offences is consistent with the policy of assisting people in financial hardship to return to legal driving in order to avoid further offending. This is a change the Greens are very happy to see implemented.
I will also briefly mention the comments the scrutiny committee made about the bill. I think the points regarding the phrasing of the delegation of legislative powers are important to note. However, I accept the government’s justification in this instance, and, having been thoroughly briefed on the proposed administration of the scheme and the development of regulations, I am satisfied that this has been done appropriately. I also note that the government has been open and consultative about the development of the guidelines for the participation in community work or social development programs. They have been circulated widely to the community sector, who have provided feedback. I expect to have further conversations with the government as these are finalised, and I am sure the Liberal Party are also welcome to contribute.
Let me simply conclude by saying that I thank the government for its work in implementing this scheme that was introduced by the Greens last year. The amendments today help establish the administration of the scheme. I know a lot of people are looking forward to the commencement of the new traffic infringement system in May this year—individuals as well as community and support groups. The new system is an important step towards making the ACT a more fair, just and
compassionate place. It will have a real and positive impact on the lives of many people.
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