Operation Anatis

The Hon. T.A. FRANKS (14:47): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before addressing a question to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, representing the Minister for Climate, Environment and Water, on the topic of Operation Anatis.

Leave granted.

The Hon. T.A. FRANKS: In response to previous questions that I have raised in this place on native bird hunting, I have received a response from the minister with regard to Operation Anatis and SAPOL, noting that the Department for Environment and Water is the lead agency for this operation and have the responsibility to ensure duck hunting complies with the strict guidelines and permit conditions of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1972 and the Animal Welfare Act 1985. My questions are:

1. How many individuals are employed, auspiced or otherwise engaged by the Department for Environment and Water in Operation Anatis?

2. On what dates have they been engaged?

3. Have any DEW employees been involved in the monitoring of native bird hunting in Victoria during their native bird hunting season and, if so, what has been the nature of those activities and the cost to the state?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector) (14:49): I thank the honourable member for her question. I think, as the honourable member would expect, I will have to refer those, but I will be happy to do so and bring back the honourable member a reply.