Aboriginal Lands Trust

251 Dr McFETRIDGE (Morphett) (27 September 2016). In reference to 2016-17 Budget Paper 4, Volume 4, page 67—why did electricity costs incurred by the Aboriginal Lands Trust increase by more than sixfold during 2015 and why did sundry expenses increase by more than $73,000?

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS (West Torrens—Treasurer, Minister for Finance, Minister for State Development, Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy): The Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation has been advised:

The Aboriginal Lands Trust, under the Aboriginal Lands Trust Act 2013, has the responsibility to manage its freehold estate. Part of this responsibility is to maintain the existing infrastructure on the lands. The expenditure identified as electricity costs includes costs associated with the upgrade of the lighting for the Yalata airstrip to ensure it meets the safety requirements.

The increase in sundry expenses is related to the following:

SA Water costs associated with water supply at Davenport and Glossop properties;

Fencing costs for the Umeewarra site at Davenport; and

The establishment of an Asbestos Register, removal and disposal of asbestos for the Yalata lands.