24 October 2011
Summary of Cabinet outcomes
As part of the ACT Government’s Open Government commitment, this document is a public summary of matters considered by Cabinet. It is not intended to be a detailed set of minutes and does not cover all matters considered by Cabinet. Among the matters not covered are materials considered in the formation of the ACT budget, commercial and industrial matters under negotiation as well as matters that would impact personal privacy, security and the ACT economy. Nothing in this document can be considered a waiver of the Government’s executive privilege.
Committees of Cabinet
Prior to Cabinet meeting, a meeting of the Budget Committee was held. Treasury officials joined with Ministers to discuss matters of fiscal significance.
Crimes (Child Sex Offenders) Amendment Bill 2011
Cabinet agreed the Bill, which amends the Crimes (Child Sex Offenders) Act 2005 to introduce an offender prohibition order scheme in the ACT. The scheme, which is similar to those operating in NSW and Queensland, allows the Chief Police Officer to apply to the Magistrates Court for an order to prevent a registrable person from engaging in specific behaviour that may endanger the lives or sexual safety of children.
Transplantation and Anatomy Amendment Bill 2011
Cabinet agreed the Bill, which amends the Transplantation and Anatomy Act 1978 with regards to the appointment of designated officers who may authorise the removal of organs and tissue from the body of a deceased person for the purpose of transplantation. The Bill also makes an amendment in relation to the removal of eye tissue for the purpose of corneal transplantation.
These amendments are consistent with the COAG-endorsed national reform package for organ and tissue donation. They also ensure uniformity with corresponding legislation in NSW.
Education Amendment Bill 2011
Cabinet agreed the Bill, which amends the Education Act 2004. The amendments reflect the amalgamation of preschool units into public schools, recognise preschools under the definition of a government school, and reflect the introduction of the Education and Care Services National Law Act 2011.
Justice and Community Safety Legislation Amendment Bill (No 3) 2011
Cabinet agreed the Bill, which amends a number of laws administered by the Justice and Community Safety Directorate. Amendments include:
- Crimes (Sentence Administration) Act 2005 - to ensure confidentiality of information in relation to court fines;
- Fair Trading (Australian Consumer Law) Act 1992 - to clarify powers of the Commissioner and investigators to investigate compliance with fair trading legislation;
- Legislation requiring Criminal History Checks – to allow licence applicants to the Office of Regulatory Services to choose which approved criminal check they utilise; and
- Road Transport (General) Act 1999 - to reflect administrative changes.
Appointments
Capital Woodlands and Wetlands Conservation Trust
Cabinet agreed to endorse the following appointment of members to administer the Capital Woodlands and Wetlands Conservation Trust:
- Mr Max Bourke as the part-time chair
- Mr Denis Saunders; Mr Bill Wood; and Ms Diane Kargas as part-time members
- The Chair, Mulligans Flat Woodland Sanctuary Board of Management as a part-time member
- The Chair, Jerrabomberra Wetlands Nature Reserve Board of Management as a part-time member; and
- Executive Director, Parks and City Services, TAMS Directorate as a part-time member
Board of ACTEW Corporation
Cabinet confirmed the appointment of Ms Jenny Goddard as director to the Board of ACTEW Corporation for a period of three years, in line with the decision of 13 September 2011
Secretary to Cabinet