Extreme Weather Conditions

The Hon. S.G. WADE (14:36): In relation to the use of Auslan interpreters, would the minister undertake to review the policy in relation to the use of Auslan interpreters, considering that, as I understand the minister's answer, he is distinguishing between a section 23 major emergency and a section 22 incident? If the events of recent days have been a major incident, it clearly can be a very significant event to which all South Australians are entitled to fair communication.

The Hon. P. MALINAUSKAS (Minister for Police, Minister for Correctional Services, Minister for Emergency Services, Minister for Road Safety) (14:36): There will naturally be reviews in due course because this has been such a significant event. There is not currently any plan by me, but I am open to looking at this, as reviews ensue, about changing it. As it stands, there isn't any intention to do that because, by and large, I think all would agree, the system has worked in respect to Auslan interpreters. They have been present at every press conference that has been undertaken. The appropriate authorities have been exercising their discretion as is appropriate to ensure that they have been present and they have been. What I would say is that until such time that I am presented with evidence that the current system has not worked, I would not see any need to review that specific clause.