In Parliament last week I introduced legislation that would give householders greater control over their water usage. My proposal would make sure water bills provide a record of usage during the previous three quarters. If my proposal is accepted, this new billing information would be required after 1 July 2010. My legislation also requires that every household has its own individual water meter by 2012.  Currently, many people who share premises with residents in blocks of flats, units or apartments are charged from a single meter for the whole block, and then it is apportioned to each residence.  Those who are conscientious with water gain no benefit, while others in the block who are less careful can take advantage of their neighbours who are water wise. This would come to a stop under my proposal.

The Government has proposed legislation that allows for “credits” to be granted to a landholder to clear land where that same landholder has provided additional native vegetation elsewhere.  This may encourage landholders to provide native vegetation in one area so that they can clear another area, subject to approval by the Native Vegetation Council.  During debate on this issue I raised concern that changes to the composition of the Native Vegetation Council, which has an important role to perform, favour mining and development interests.  This could put land clearing interests ahead of land preservation.  I further pointed out that this legislation will do little to help species loss around the Adelaide Hills, which has become worse over the past six years under the Rann Government.

Last week in Parliament I expressed my grave concern over the contempt with which senior public servants treated the Natural Resources Committee, a Parliamentary Committee, during its inquiry into the impact of forestry on the Deep Creek region. It is an extremely serious matter for senior officers from the Department of Water, Land and Biodiversity Conservation (DWLBC) to mislead an inquiry that affects decisions about the economic and environmental welfare of South Australia. In light of this gross offence against the administration of the State, I called for immediate disciplinary action for the officers concerned. If this does not occur, the Minister responsible should resign.  

Attempts to establish an Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) in South Australia continue through a Bill that was introduced last week by the State Opposition.  In February this year I introduced legislation that would have set up a Commission to help dispel suspicion of those in public office over conflicts of interest, misappropriation of funds and any other possible allegations of corruptions that may arise. The Rann Government voted against the need for an ICAC then.  While it is never pleasant for a Government to consider an independent watchdog, vested with considerable powers, it is something that this State needs.

As summer approaches there will be increasing focus on water conservation. To help I will be hosting a ‘Living with Water Restrictions’ forum at the Reynella Neighbourhood Centre on 6^th December.  A number of notable speakers will provide tips on helping gardens survive this time of the year.  More details to follow…