Page 3369 - Week 11 - Tuesday, 21 October 2014
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MS BURCH: I thank Dr Bourke for his interest. The task force has very strong cross-community participation on its panel. We also recognise the role of the Indigenous elected body as the key organisation that represents the needs of our local Indigenous community. We will ensure that we talk with those and other community organisations that have an interest in education. Regardless of what school or what year you are in, every child deserves the best outcome that this government can provide through our education system.
Housing—public
MS LAWDER: My question is to the Minister for Housing. Minister, a Canberra Times article of 16 August detailed that more than 600 public housing properties sat empty for at least 30 days in the last financial year and more than 100 properties sat vacant for more than 100 days. Minister, the article stated that one reason for properties being held vacant for more than 30 days was because they are being held for people transferring from hospital or the Alexander Maconochie Centre. Minister, is it correct that public housing properties are left empty for people being transferred out of the AMC? If so, how many homes in the last financial year were held for this purpose?
MR BARR: Yes, and I will take the second part of the question on notice.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Ms Lawder.
MS LAWDER: Minister, how does Housing ACT determine who has priority for the vacant public housing so that the people on the priority waiting list can get access to public housing in a timely manner?
MR BARR: There is an established process assessing applicants against their income, amongst other factors. Those on the waiting list are categorised according to need. It is highly possible that someone leaving the Alexander Maconochie Centre may in fact be of the highest need of all.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mr Doszpot.
MR DOSZPOT: Minister, what are other reasons for public housing properties not being turned around within the target of 28 days?
MR BARR: Extensive maintenance works can sometimes stretch beyond 28 days.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mr Doszpot.
MR DOSZPOT: Minister, how many public housing properties were relet within the target of 28 days in the last financial year?
MR BARR: I would refer the member to the annual report of Housing ACT.
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