Mitch Fifield (Victoria, Liberal Party, Assistant Minister for Social Services) Share this | Hansard source

I thank Senator Ludwig for raising the matter. Can I make clear that this government is committed to maintaining the integrity of the Senate estimates process. I think it is fair to say that the same cannot be said of those opposite who have, since losing office, in a number of ways repeatedly chosen to abuse the estimates process. The number of questions on notice received by the Department of Social Services has increased from 434 for budget estimates 2013, to 975 for budget estimates 2014, an increase of over 100 per cent. This has resulted in a significant diversion of department resources to respond to these question

Of the 975 questions lodged with the department, there were over 100 questions where identical or similar information was requested—requiring additional time to assess and respond to questions.

I guess we could look to the past for some context. Let's compare the statistics for this time last year. Under the coalition, a total of 515 questions on notice, or 53 per cent of questions on notice, were tabled by the committee due date of 25 July 2014. In contrast, under the previous Labor government, there were no questions on notice tabled by the due date for the corresponding estimates hearing in 2013. As at 19 September 2014, 872 questions on notice have been tabled by the department with more to follow. I just thought a little bit of context may be of assistance to the chamber.

But let me reiterate that the government does take very seriously the process of answering questions on notice. Let me assure Senator Ludwig that the department and the portfolio are working hard to answer those questions. While I am on my feet, as I also represent the Minister for Communications in this place, I invite Senator Ludwig to raise matters in relation to that portfolio if he wishes.