Page 2003 - Week 06 - Tuesday, 5 June 2018
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I thank the Standing Committee on Justice and Community Safety in their legislative scrutiny role for their review of this bill. I note that the committee has drawn to the attention of the Assembly the human rights analysis of the bill in relation to the bill’s engagement of the right to privacy and reputation under section 12 of the Human Rights Act 2004 and the right to the presumption of innocence under section 22 of that act. I note that the committee generally agrees with the assessment in the explanatory statement. The committee has further requested justification for the ability to extend by regulation the range of persons who may be required to provide information to a casino advisory panel.
It is not possible to anticipate in advance all of the entities that may hold information that is relevant to a casino advisory panel’s considerations. The information required will vary depending on the decision on which the panel is providing a recommendation and the specific circumstances of the applicant. For this reason, the bill includes section 136C(1)(d) to provide for flexibility and responsiveness where required to support a casino advisory panel’s function. The power has been carefully considered and has been limited so that a panel can only ask for information where it will assist the panel to make its recommendation to me. The provision does not provide a general power to ask for information from anyone about anything. I have provided this additional justification in my response to the committee.
We are ensuring that the casino legislation is robust and is appropriate to the inherent risks that come with casino operations. We are committed to reducing harm from gambling, and I will continue to bring forward legislation to support that aim.
I said last year that there would be more casino legislation introduced. I can also say that there is more to come in due course should a casino redevelopment proposal progress. As we all know in this place, legislation is not a static thing; it must be revised and reconsidered to fit changing circumstances. I make no apology for ensuring that the right legislation is in place at the right time, particularly when it comes to ensuring that gambling harm is reduced and that the community benefits from any increased access given to gambling products. I commend the bill to the Assembly.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
Bill agreed to in principle.
Leave granted to dispense with the detail stage.
Bill agreed to.
Sitting suspended from 12.12 to 2.30 pm.
Questions without notice
ACT Health—proposed organisational changes
MR COE: I have a question for the Chief Minister. I refer to the government’s decision on 15 March to restructure the Health Directorate by splitting it in two. This
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