Question Time

Minda Incorporated

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (14:17): My question is to the Minister for Human Services. Minister, when were you first made aware of concerns of abuse, neglect and maladministration at Minda, what were the nature of these concerns and what steps have you taken as minister to ensure the safety of Minda clients?

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (Minister for Human Services) (14:18): I thank the honourable member for his question. I received a letter last year from—I will need to retrieve the issues because he is asking me about some specific issues and when I was made aware of them. Last year, when I was made aware of them, we referred them to the relevant authority. I have been concerned that there have not been specific details provided about this and so have urged those who have written to me to provide the details, particularly the member for Hurtle Vale, and that information has not been forthcoming.

I think it is very concerning when allegations are raised. We take them very seriously. We refer them to the relevant sections of our department, or the relevant commonwealth authorities, for investigation. I think it is inappropriate and placing people at risk if members of parliament or anybody else does not do the same—it is potentially placing people at risk.