Janet is Chairperson of the Parliamentary Education and Health Standing Committee, which holds inquiries into various health and education issues and legislation as directed by the Legislative Assembly or resolved by the Committee itself.

Past inquiries were:

1. Inquiry into the Tobacco Products Control Amendment Bill 2008. The Committee's terms of reference were to consider the adequacy of the proposed actions to protect children and adults from the harmful consequences of passive smoking and from tobacco promotion

The Committee made 13 recommendations supporting the Bill.

On 22 September 2010, the new legislation will come into force, which will mean smoking is not permitted in cars with children; within 10 metres of childrens playground equiptment; and between the flags at beaches.  In addition, cigarettes will no longer be on display at counters; alfresco eating and drinking areas will be smoke free; and all licensed hotels must provide a minimum of 50% of the outdoor eating areas for non-smokers.

2. Inquiry into the General Health Screening of Children at Pre-Primary and Primary School Level. The Committee assessed the adequacy and availability of child health screening programs, as well as access to appropriate services that address issues identified during the screening process.

The Committee made 37 recommendations, including that the State Government employ an additional 135 school nurses, 126 child development service professionals and 105 child health nurses. 

Initial funding was made available in the 2010-2011 budget to redress the deficiency in these services and $49.7 million has been budgeted over the next four years.

3. Inquiry into Education Support for Students on 457 Visas in Western Australia.  The Committe resolved to conduct an inquiry into the level and type of educational support given to children of Subclass 457 Visa holders and how funding for school children who have English as a Second Language (ESL) can effect a child’s social and educational development.

The Committee made 23 recommendations towards the review and assessment of funding and support provided for students who require ESL classes and assistance. 

The State Government announced in the 2010-2011 State Budget that $13.9 million has been set aside over two years to provide English language tuition to children on temporary 457 visas from non-English speaking backgrounds.

4. Review of WA's Current and Future Hospital and Community Health Care Services. The Committee presented their report on this inquiry on 6 May 2010.  The two-volume report had 126 findings and 91 recommendations which were geared to help improve the State's health care system.

The Committee is waiting for the State Government's response for this report.

The Committee is currently holding an inquiry into: 

1.  The Adequacy and Appropriateness of Prevention and Treatment Services for Alcohol and Illicit Drug Problems in Western Australia. The Committee is expected to present this report to Parliament on 25 November 2010.

Copies of the Committee's published reports as well as the Terms of Reference for current inquiries can be found on the Education and Health Committee webpage at www.parliament.wa.gov.au.