WATER PRICING

Mr WILLIAMS (MacKillop—Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (14:45): My question is to the Premier. Does the Premier support further water price increases of around 40 per cent as foreshadowed by his government?

The Hon. P. CAICA (Colton—Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation, Minister for Water and the River Murray, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation) (14:46): Crikey, Madam Speaker; I missed the question! Do you think it could be repeated so I could hear it properly, please?

Mr WILLIAMS: It is fascinating that the minister wanted to answer the question so much but he had not heard what it was. Does the Premier support further water price increases of around 40 per cent as of 1 July next year as foreshadowed by his government?

The Hon. P. CAICA: Crikey; I'm sorry I missed it the first time! We have been transparent about what the price increases will be as a result of ensuring that this state and the people of South Australia have water security: water security for future generations and water security independent of traditional climatic-dependent supplies.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order!

The Hon. P. CAICA: He presumes that the indications we gave that the price increases would be of a similar quantum for this coming year would be, in his words, 40 per cent. You have to unpack what it is that the member for MacKillop often says—and I noticed some of the views expressed by his colleagues about his particular performance. I make no comment about that; they are entitled to their views. The decisions made with respect to increases in water prices that enable us to secure Adelaide's water supplies are very difficult decisions.

Members interjecting:

The SPEAKER: Order!

The Hon. P. CAICA: And, of course, it is a decision that is ultimately made by cabinet.