COVID-19 Emergency Response

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (14:40): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Minister for Health and Wellbeing a question regarding the COVID-19 emergency response.

Leave granted.

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN: It has been reported in the media today that there were, and I quote:

…some tense exchanges some tense discussion yesterday within the State Liberals party room meeting about a proposal that was brought forward…for an extension of the emergency powers that apply vis a vis COVID.

To quote again:

…back benchers have…reserved their rights as to whether they will even support the changes or not.

My questions to the minister are:

1. In view of the Premier's comments that the government has been working on broader changes to the Emergency Management Act since, and I quote, 'at least November', when exactly will we see proposed legislation?

2. Unlike previous instances, will such legislation be provided to all members of this chamber in a timely manner?

3. How can the people of South Australia have confidence in how you and the Premier are handling the extension of emergency powers if your own party room does not have confidence in you?

The PRESIDENT: Before I call the minister, the deputy leader should be aware that I haven't been working with the Premier on this matter, but obviously the minister has. I call the minister.

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing) (14:41): I understand the honourable member's question relates to the Emergency Management Act. The Emergency Management Act is not committed to me, it is committed to the Premier.