Speech Fundraising Proposal

The Hon. R.A. SIMMS (14:38): I seek leave to make a brief explanation before addressing a question to the Attorney-General on the topic of a fundraiser in relation to a parliamentary vote.

Leave granted.

The Hon. R.A. SIMMS: Earlier this afternoon, InDaily reported that followers of Ms Joanna Howe are being 'encouraged to buy words for prices ranging from $1 to $70' in relation to a debate that is due to occur in the parliament this afternoon. Words and phrases are available to buy and, in her description of the game, Ms Howe states on her website (I am quoting from InDaily), 'the beautiful irony is that politicians will be inadvertently funding us every time they attack us'. My question to the Attorney-General is: is he aware of this fundraiser, and does it raise any concerns for him?

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Deputy Premier, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Attorney-General, Minister for Industrial Relations and Public Sector, Special Minister of State) (14:40): I thank the honourable member for his question. I am aware of media reports today in relation to the matter the honourable member has raised. It would depend on a whole range of circumstances as to whether it is complying with, I think, the Lotteries Act and Regulations in South Australia.

I know, from previous things I have been involved in with my political party, particularly as state secretary of the Labor Party, that there are certain requirements around things depending on the value of the prizes: whether it is a major lottery and licences need to be applied for and certain information provided about that lottery, or whether it is a minor lottery, in which case, from memory, there are still administrative things you need to do to comply with lotteries schemes and legislation. I am happy to refer this to, I think, Consumer and Business Affairs to make sure they are aware of it.