Personal Explanation

Register of Members' Interests

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment) (14:36): Late yesterday, an article appeared on Adelaidenow reporting that I had not declared my place of residence for the annual Register of Members' Interests. Late last week, through a text from a reporter at The Advertiser, I was alerted to the fact that my house at Mitcham had not been declared as part of the annual disclosure. Once made aware, I immediately contacted the Clerk of the Legislative Council so that arrangements could be made to provide a revised and accurate declaration.

Through this inquiry it became apparent that my Mitcham property had, despite being purchased in 2001 and declared in subsequent years, unintentionally not been declared for several years. It appears that, despite my prudence in submitting an accurate declaration each year, an omission occurred which led to my Mitcham property dropping off the register. I can confirm, though, all of my interests, including my place of residence in Mitcham, appear on the cabinet register I completed upon being sworn in as a minister.

As an elected member of parliament I take very seriously my responsibility to be accountable and transparent to the South Australian public. I am confident that the value I place on that responsibility is reflected in all of my official interactions, many of which have taken place at my home in Mitcham. I have had journalists visit me there; I have participated in press conferences on my front lawn; I have welcome members from all sides of politics through my front door. I have even gifted a patch of turf to a member in this very chamber.

As a member of this government, which takes transparency and accountability very seriously, I will continue to conduct myself as a minister in a manner conducive to public trust, including making any and all declarations with honesty and integrity.