Mr Conroy asked the Minister representing the Minister for Regional Development, in writing, on 11 November 2015:
In respect of the $22,000.00 tender to REX Braddon Pty Ltd (CN3292347) for venue hire and catering (a) what was this event, (b) who attended this event, including (i) Ministerial staff, and (ii) departmental staff, (c) what outcomes were achieved, and (d) can his department provide (i) the itemised budget for meals, travel, and other allowances, and (ii) a copy of the run sheet, refreshments menu(s), and itinerary.
Mr Chester: The Minister for Regional Development has provided the following answer to the honourable member’s question:
a) The event was a five day training course on Human Factors facilitated by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB).
b) Four staff from the ATSB and 27 external industry based stakeholders including four international guests. There were no ministerial staff in attendance.
c) The key objectives of the course are to provide each participant with an awareness of: the key terms and concepts used in human factors; basic human performance capabilities and limitations; the factors that influence human performance; the importance of human factors in transport safety; how human factors issues can be considered during an investigation; and where to find expertise on more complex human factors issues.
d) Yes (Attachment A). There were no travel or other allowances.
The tender was for $22,000 although the actual venue hire and catering costs were $16,159 (GST Inclusive). This course is facilitated on a full cost recovery basis with most participants paying $2,500 to attend.
Copies of A ttachment A can be obtained from the House of Representatives Table Office