EXTRACTIVE AREAS REHABILITATION FUND

In reply to Mr WILLIAMS (MacKillop—Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (9 November 2011) (First Session).

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS (West Torrens—Minister for Manufacturing, Innovation and Trade, Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy, Minister for Small Business): I am advised in response to the questions raised from the honourable member for MacKillop regarding the Extractive Areas Rehabilitation Fund (the 'Fund'), I can confirm there is no government policy to grow the balance of the Fund.

In regards to the number of officers employed by the Fund, I am advised that during the 2010-11 financial year 3 officers were employed to undertake rehabilitation plan assessments and compliance activities for extractive mining operations. To further enhance compliance activities, and to utilise additional resources now available from the Fund, I have been advised that the Department is currently in the process of employing a further 2 compliance officers for the 2011-12 financial year.