Mr Martin Ferguson asked the Minister representing the Special Minister of State, upon notice, on 10 March 1999:

Were arrangements made when developing the existing Comcar drivers' industrial agreement for improved superannuation payments including backdating of improved benefits; if so, have payments been made to the drivers in accordance with the arrangements.

Mr Fahey (Finance and Administration) —The Special Minister of State has provided the following answer to the honourable member's question:

Arrangements were made for improved superannuation payments to be paid to Comcar drivers by virtue of the fact that superannuation would be paid by drivers based on salary plus a National Flexibility Allowance of, initially, $5,500 per annum.

The improved superannuation benefits have been paid in accordance with the Comcar Certified Agreement. The Department has made all payments, in accordance with the Superannuation Guarantee Act.