asked the Minister representing the Special Minister of State, in writing, on 22 September 2014:

Since 7 September 2013 and excluding payments associated with the change of government, per Ministerial office, (a) what is the total cost of ministerial staff separation payments, and (b) how many ministerial staff resignations have been tendered.

The Special Minister of State has provided the following answer to the honourable member's question:

(a) For the period 7 September 2013 to 22 September 2014, the total cost of ministerial staff separation payments, i.e. severance benefits payable to staff whose employment is terminated, is $168,331.01, excluding leave entitlements.

(b) For the period 7 September 2013 to 22 September 2014, 34 ministerial staff resigned.