It’s good to see the Minister for Water Security, Karlene Maywald, announcing that a sustainable and secure water supply will be an objective added to SA Water’s Charter. Back in February, I introduced legislation demanding that SA Water set binding annual water conservation targets. The legislation, based on similar amendments introduced by Greens’ MLC Mark Parnell, called for a target of 30 per cent less water consumed by 2015, based on 2005 consumption levels. And that SA Water must report its progress each year in its annual report.

I congratulate Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and his Petrol Price Commissioner for announcing a national FuelWatch scheme. I called on the Rann Government to introduce a similar scheme for South Australia back in August 2006.

I based my idea on the success of Perth’s FuelWatch, estimated to save motorists on average $2.50 a week. Check out how FuelWatch works on www.fuelwatch.wa.gov.au   

Recommendations of a report from the Work Life Balance Committee, tabled in Parliament yesterday, included paid maternity leave and more flexible working hours. The paid maternity leave would apply to all working SA women, including part time and casual employees. Full time employees would receive 14 weeks’ minimum wage payment and the right to return to work after 12 months. Part time and casual workers would earn less pay over the same period. The report recommended that the State Government fund these schemes to ensure there are no additional costs to businesses.