QUESTION: PUBLIC HOUSING (Criminal Charges)

The Hon. K.J. MAHER (Leader of the Opposition) (15:07): A further supplementary: the minister, in her original answer, talked about criminal charges and expulsion from Housing Trust houses. At what stage of the criminal process is the tenant expelled from a Housing Trust house? Is it when they are charged or when a conviction is recorded?

The Hon. J.M.A. LENSINK (Minister for Human Services) (15:07): The advice that I have is that it depends on the seriousness of the crime. For example, if somebody is convicted of a minor crime like shoplifting and not gaoled they will keep their tenancy; however, Housing SA can proceed to seek eviction immediately if a serious crime has been committed.