Land Tax

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (14:34): Further supplementary arising from the original answer: which other industry groups were consulted with about the details of these changes besides the Property Council, and which other industry groups besides the Property Council support these changes?

The Hon. R.I. LUCAS (Treasurer) (14:34): I have had a series of discussions, as have other members of the government, with not only stakeholder groups but also individuals and others in terms of various suggestions. Some individuals came up with what they believed to be suggested compromises on the government's position which were unacceptable to the government. We had those discussions respectfully and indicated that we weren't in a position to be able to support those particular suggestions for compromise. I had a series of discussions with a series of people but the group that was prepared to sit down seriously and negotiate in relation to these particular amendments was the Property Council. As a result of that, amendments went to the cabinet and the party room and were supported yesterday and announced last evening.