Second Reading

Today, I introduce the Government Advertising Bill 2019, which gives effect to the government's election commitment to introduce stricter controls on taxpayer-funded advertising. Essentially, the bill makes it unlawful for government advertising to feature the voice or image of a member of parliament or a minister.

Tougher restrictions on the sale of nitrous oxide canisters, or ‘nangs’, will come into effect early next year, following approval from South Australia’s Controlled Substances Advisory Council.

Second Reading

I rise to speak on the private member's bill, Controlled Substances (Nitrous Oxide) Amendment Bill 2019. I thank the member for considering this matter and acting on the concerns that have been raised in the community. It is not a new issue; it has been very much around for the last couple of years. I think there have been various attempts to look at whatever is a new drug or a new drug of choice, especially amongst our young people, but that does not mean, regrettably, that the private member's bill will actually capture the most expedient and efficient way of managing this issue. Let me explain why, in the circumstances, the government will not be supporting the bill.

Encounter Youth, a South Australian charity which dedicates time and resources to help our young people, has won the Gold 2019 Australian Crime and Prevention Award for its Hindley Street Program.

The public’s right to know more about how governments operate will be strengthened under proposed changes to South Australia’s Freedom of Information Act to be tabled in State Parliament today.

Motion

I rise to indicate my support for the motion and thank the Premier for bringing this matter to the parliament so that we may place on the record our concerns about and appreciation for what occurred in the events of 20 November. I also acknowledge all other speakers in relation to their contributions.

Second Reading

I wish to acknowledge the two speakers who have contributed to this debate and the indication of the opposition's support for the bill. I also appreciate the indications of support for the primarily nationally significant reforms that have resulted in our having the responsibility to now make our legislation consistent with that.

Second Reading

I indicate my appreciation to the opposition for an indication of their support. In the year that we celebrate 125 years of women having the right to vote and also, historically, in this parliament having had the right to stand for parliament, it is particularly important that I make some mention of the significance of what we are doing in this legislation.

Second Reading

I thank the member for Kaurna for indicating his position on this matter on behalf of the opposition. Whilst he gives an indication that they will be supportive and that they will be reserving their position on the matter on the basis that they seek to undertake further consultation, it is concerning to note the assertion that the government has failed to provide information on this matter.

Retired District Court Judge Gordon Barrett QC has been appointed to review South Australia’s Police Complaints and Discipline Act.