Page 326 - Week 01 - Thursday, 14 February 2019
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(5) What work has been done by WorkSafe ACT to determine the origin of the ACM.
Ms Stephen-Smith: The answer to the member’s question is as follows:
(1) WorkSafe ACT was first informed of the potential presence of ACM on 29 August 2018 by the Education Directorate.
(2) WorkSafe ACT liaised with the Education Directorate and Harrison School to ensure appropriate procedures were being followed and that protective measures such as fencing were undertaken. Liaison with the licensed asbestos assessor was also commenced.
(3) Initial results were provided 29 August 2018 with subsequent testing results provided at later dates as further testing was undertaken.
(4) WorkSafe ACT has had extensive liaison with the Education Directorate and Harrison School to ensure school employees, parents and pupils were kept informed of the relevant ACM situation and associated risks. This included discussions surrounding sampling methodology, testing and remediation action with all relevant stakeholders including the Chief Health Officer and a licensed asbestos assessor and removalist.
An investigation into the possible source and identifying any other contaminated areas was also undertaken.
(5) A full investigation was initiated into the possible source of the ACM and whether the material had been provided anywhere else. WorkSafe ACT’s investigation is close to finalisation.
Housing—land tax
(Question No 2059)
Ms Le Couteur asked the Treasurer, upon notice, on 30 November 2018:
(1) Given that the FAQ on land tax at www.revenue.act.gov.au/land-tax?result_1060955_result_page=6 states that “Properties occupied for nil or nominal rent” are exempt, can the Treasurer provide more information as to what this means in practice.
(2) If the tenant pays only essential outgoings such as rates, water and insurance would that be regarded as “nominal rent”.
Mr Barr: The answer to the member’s question is as follows:
(1&2) The ACT Revenue Office will take into account the overall arrangement (including all payments or non-payments made by a tenant) in determining whether or not nominal rent is being paid. Ordinarily to be eligible for the nominal rent exemption, the outgoings paid must only cover the cost of rates, repairs, maintenance or insurance. Payments for other expenses, such as the mortgage, will be taken to be rent and land tax will apply. Further information about the land tax exemption where properties are occupied for ‘nil or nominal rent’, and what this means in practice is available:
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