Country Fire Service, Kangaroo Island

In reply to Mr PEDERICK (Hammond) (3 July 2023). (Estimates Committee B)

The Hon. J.K. SZAKACS (Cheltenham—Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services): I have been advised:

Due to the evolving scope, complex nature and extent of the allegations made by various complainants it was necessary for the CFS to contract major aspects of the investigation to external providers. This decision was driven by a range of factors including resources, time, achieving independent and transparent advice and accessing the required expertise.

The time and the cost of CFS staff attributed to coordinating the investigation, was not recorded as it was undertaken within a 'business as usual' approach by those engaged to assist in the inquiry.

Consequently, the cost of engaging external contractors on the Kangaroo Island investigation (termed in the question as the Mr and Mrs May investigation) is $103,789, comprising an initial assessment, two phases of a forensic accounting investigation with a supplementary report and advice from the Crown Solicitor's Office.