Question Time

Metropolitan Fire Service Travel Allowance

The Hon. N.J. CENTOFANTI (Leader of the Opposition) (14:37): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before asking the Minister for Emergency Services a question relating to the Metropolitan Fire Service.

Leave granted.

The Hon. N.J. CENTOFANTI: As per the minister's statement, the United Firefighters Union of South Australia has accused the Malinauskas Labor government of yet another wage theft case involving underpayment of travel allowances. It is the opposition's understanding that the union asked for an audit during the Employment Tribunal hearing. My questions to the minister are:

1. Was the minister aware of, or was she briefed on, this particular request—

Members interjecting:

The PRESIDENT: Order! The Hon. Mr Hunter and the Hon. Ms Girolamo, it is impossible for me to hear the question. I don't know how the minister is expected to hear the question. Can you please repeat where you are at with that, the honourable Leader of the Opposition? Please listen in silence.

The Hon. N.J. CENTOFANTI: Thank you, Mr President. My questions to the minister are:

1. Was the minister aware of, or was she briefed on, this particular request for an audit?

2. If so, why did she refuse to comply?

3. Has the minister been fully briefed on any other payroll issues within her departments?

The Hon. E.S. BOURKE (Minister for Emergency Services and Correctional Services, Minister for Autism, Minister for Recreation, Sport and Racing) (14:39): I thank the honourable member for her question. I refer to my earlier explanation on this matter through my personal ministerial statement. As I mentioned, the government acknowledges the frustration this has caused for employees and their families, and on behalf of the government, I do extend my sincere apologies. It's just simply not good enough and we are determined to address it. It appears this issue extends over multiple governments, both Liberal and Labor, and we now must work through this once and for all.