PERPETUAL LEASES

449 The Hon. G.M. GUNN (Stuart) (24 February 2009).

1. Has further consideration been given to allow perpetual lease holders in the transitional zone the opportunity to freehold their properties in line with other perpetual lease holders and if not, why not?

2. Is the Minister aware that security of tenure is a very important element in primary producers maintaining and securing finance?

The Hon. J.W. WEATHERILL (Cheltenham—Minister for Environment and Conservation, Minister for Early Childhood Development, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation, Minister Assisting the Premier in Cabinet Business and Public Sector Management): I am advised that:

1. Lessees holding perpetual leases in the Transitional Zone and perpetual leases used for non-pastoral purposes in the Rangelands Zone can freehold their properties as recommended by the Select Committee on Crown Lands (Miscellaneous) Amendment Bill 2002, in 2003.

2. Yes, that is why the current freeholding process allows leases within the Transitional Zone to be freeholded and provides a security of tenure.”