Generators

Ms CHAPMAN (Bragg—Deputy Leader of the Opposition) (14:43): Can the Treasurer tell us how much the estimated cost is of maintaining the stand-by generator at a permanent location for the remainder of the 25-year operating life?

The Hon. A. KOUTSANTONIS (West Torrens—Treasurer, Minister for Finance, Minister for State Development, Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy) (14:43): I would hope it would last more than 25 years. Torrens Island lasted 50 years. In fact, when it was sold by members opposite, it had already done 30 years' operation, so 25 years is not an accurate reflection of the operating life of these generators because they are brand-new aeroderivative generators, which means that they are very, very efficient.

Given that we will be using them at a permanent location, operating on gas, which we will be announcing very, very soon, what you will be seeing is that these generators will last the state a very, very long time, unless of course we're not successful at the election and members opposite get their hands on them and sell them again.

Mr Marshall: What a joke you are, what an absolute joke.

The SPEAKER: The leader is on a full set of warnings.

Mr MARSHALL: I didn't hear what the Treasurer said then, sir, when he was—

The Hon. M.L.J. Hamilton-Smith: Well, listen.

The SPEAKER: The Minister for Investment and Trade is called to order.