TAFE SA

Mr GARDNER (Morialta) (15:09): My question is to the Minister for Higher Education and Skills. Has the government sought or received any advice as to whether TAFE or the government is liable to damages or compensation as a result of the loss of accreditation of courses? This could of course include the aircraft maintenance courses.

The Hon. S.E. CLOSE (Port Adelaide—Minister for Education and Child Development, Minister for Higher Education and Skills) (15:09): While we do not discuss legal advice sought or obtained, I am able to say that the approach that TAFE has taken and will take is that of being a model litigant, should there be a situation where that is required. I believe at present, as up to date as my information is, there has been no such move amongst the students who were undertaking the course that CASA, alongside TAFE, has temporarily suspended. It is far too early to determine whether that might be an outcome of the current audit process, but TAFE has assured me that it will operate as a model litigant in the event that the matters do turn to a legal situation.