Question Time

Pathology Services

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (14:17): My question is to the Minister for Health and Wellbeing regarding pathology. My questions are:

1. Has the minister ever held discussions at a Liberal Party fundraiser, FutureSA event or other Liberal Party event with any representative from Clinpath or Sonic Healthcare?

2. Has the minister hosted a table at a FutureSA or Liberal Party fundraising event that included representatives of Clinpath or Sonic Healthcare?

3. Has the minister, before or after the state election, had any discussions with representatives of Clinpath or Sonic Healthcare in relation to the possible privatisation of government pathology services?

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing) (14:18): I will certainly need to take that on notice. I don't—

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order!

The Hon. S.G. WADE: We are apparently under lockdown. The Leader of the Opposition wants to have a Fringe performance in the Legislative Council. I don't recall conversations with Clinpath or Sonic about privatisation, but it would hardly surprise me that a private pathology firm might advocate for that approach. What is very clear to them now is that this government is committed to SA Pathology staying in public hands.