Land Valuations

The Hon. J.A. DARLEY (15:08): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Minister for Trade and Investment, representing the Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Local Government, a question about valuations.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.A. DARLEY: Following the two Ash Wednesday bushfires in 1980 and 1983, the Valuer-General immediately revalued properties in bushfire-affected areas to appropriately adjust capital values to reflect destroyed improvements. These valuations took effect immediately, providing rate relief for affected owners. My question to the minister is: can the minister advise whether the current Valuer-General has given the same policy direction to Land Services SA in light of the recent bushfires and, if so, what was the direction given, when will it take effect and were owners advised of the amended valuations?

The Hon. D.W. RIDGWAY (Minister for Trade and Investment) (15:09): I thank the honourable member for his ongoing interest in the effects of the bushfires and, in particular, the questions on land valuations. I will refer them to the responsible minister, the Hon. Stephan Knoll, in the House of Assembly and bring back a reply.