Nigel Scullion (NT, Country Liberal Party, Minister for Community Services) Share this | Hansard source

As the senator would be aware, since the time of the announcement of the intervention, we have said that a compulsory acquisition would be compensated on just terms. We have said that will be the case. But we do not have a capacity at this stage, as you have indicated, to come up with a dollar figure for that amount. In terms of a further appreciation of what that sum may be, we will not be able to know that until such time as the negotiations are entered into or there is some sort of settlement. I understand that in the explanatory memorandum we look to the Valuer-General in the Northern Territory for an appreciation of what that may be. They are difficult issues. I will have to take the question on notice in terms of exactly how you will be able to scrutinise any further appreciation of funds at that time. I hope to get that information to you very shortly.