Question Time

FENCING

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (15:53): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the minister representing the Minister for Environment and Conservation a question about DEH fencing.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK: I have been contacted by a disgruntled constituent who lives on a property north of Port Lincoln. Some of his adjoining fencing was replaced by DEH and National Parks following the bushfires. He has expressed gratitude that DEH chipped in to help replace the fencing but he has some concerns with it, which I will outline. I am advised by him that cyclone fencing is not allowed and, instead, there must be plain wire fencing which will keep stock out of the adjoining park. Unfortunately, the wildlife can get into his property and, in so doing, the kangaroos will pull up to half a kilometre out at a time if they get caught in it. Emus can also get caught in the fencing and suffer harm. He has spoken to people within the department who have advised him that he is a de facto ranger, and it is entirely at his cost to maintain fencing in spite of the fact that the wildlife that are being sought to be preserved are being injured in the process. My questions are:

1. Has there been a change in policy in relation to whether either DEH or NHT funding can be applied for fencing?

2. Will it revise its policy of using inadequate fencing in the interests of farmers not having to spend considerable hours fixing fencing every time a roo comes through?

The Hon. CARMEL ZOLLO (Minister for Correctional Services, Minister for Road Safety, Minister for Gambling, Minister Assisting the Minister for Multicultural Affairs) (15:56): I thank the honourable member for her question. In relation to fencing, I will pass on her question to the Minister for Environment and Conservation in another place and ensure that the honourable member has a response.