July 25, 2007
Water Managers In
Deep End Training
Australia’s water managers are to be “upskilled” in a $2.6 million program of education, training and knowledge-building.
Federal Minister for Water Resources, Malcolm Turnbull, announced the plan saying the money would come from the Raising National Water Standards program and pay for three projects aimed at improving Australia’s water management and use.
He said one aspect plan would be a $1.35 million National Water Commission-sponsored Fellowship Program to enhance the integration of scientific expertise into the policy arena.
“Offering up to four fellowships per year this program will help water sector leaders advance their knowledge, build capacity and develop new skills,” Mr Turnbull said.
He said the first year would be run as a pilot scheme with an evaluation used to shape the second year.
“I am also announcing that Public Service Skills Ltd will be funded $1.2 million to develop training standards for the water industry.
“This project will develop and implement nationally consistent standards for the delivery and assessment of competency-based training programs across different water enterprises, training providers, States and Territories.”
Mr Turnbull said the final part of the package would be an $80,000 review and rewrite of the Australian Groundwater School Notes.
“The key objective of the project is to ensure the 30-year-old Groundwater School delivers groundwater management education that is updated with the best available groundwater science and knowledge.”
He said by funding the programs, the Government was ensuring that the management of water resource was supported by best available knowledge and expertise.
July 25, 2007
New Lease of Life
At Tenancy Tribunal
Reforms to the NSW Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal are being implemented following a review which looked at whether the Tribunal was providing a quick, informal, low-cost, consistent and accessible service.
Fair Trading Minister, Linda Burney said the changes would ensure the CTTT provided an even more accessible, efficient and affordable service for NSW consumers.
The review made 67 recommendations, three-quarters of which are already being implemented. The full report has been released by the Minister.
“I am committed to making sure the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal remains the premier consumer claims tribunal in Australia,” Ms Burney said.
“Significant work has commenced on increasing the quality of the Tribunal’s educational materials and community awareness programs to better prepare parties for hearings.”
She said the work done so far included the development of a fact sheet to help people access legal information and assistance, and a makeover of the Tribunal’s website to include online demonstrations - in eight different languages - about the Tribunal’s dispute resolution services.
Information sessions are to be held across the State over the next year to increase public awareness of the Tribunal.
Better induction and ongoing training for members was being provided, with a view to improving member performance, the minister said, while procedures and practices were also being reviewed.
The report is available on the Tribunal’s website at www.cttt.nsw.gov.au.
July 25, 2007
Ex-AGs Staff Return
To Scene of Crime
Former staff of the Attorney General’s Department gathered as an alumni in mid-July in the second event of its kind run by the AGD Alumni network which boasts more than 160 members.
Billed as providing “an opportunity for former employees to share their expertise and experiences, while renewing friendships and establishing networks”, the 90-minute event which featured a presentation from the Chief Executive of the Supreme Court, Megan Greenwood of the Court’s 2010 program, enabled attendees to meet the new Alumni Management Committee, whose members outlined their role in developing opportunities for the Alumni and for the Department.
The network said in its publicity for the event that several public and private organizations, such as the RTA, CSIRO and Department of Science and Technology, had begun Alumni programs recently to provide past employees with an opportunity to continue to be involved with their former employers.
“It is recognised that former employees have significant knowledge and skills that are of value to organisations,” the publicity material said.
Members are encouraged to get involved in the network by mentoring existing staff, advising on programs such as Courts 2010 and JusticeLink, recommending business process improvements, and participating in focus groups and forums.
For further information, email alumni@agd.nsw.gov.au or phone Banu Iyer on (02) 9228 7516 for visit the website www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/alumni.
Mayors Go to Town
On Capital Projects
The Lord Mayors of Australia’s eight capital cities have drawn up a wish list of 23 projects they say would make a critical difference to national prosperity if they were supported by the Federal Government.
Part of a package of more than 70 across the main population centres, the new projects range from transport and infrastructure projects to environmental sustainability, global engagement, tourism and social infrastructure.
The wish list has been proposed by the Council of Capital City Lord Mayors as part of an initiative to seek a new alliance with the Federal Government.
The CCCLM believes that a collaborative program with the Commonwealth would see the projects realised faster, with important benefits for the nation as a whole.
In particular, they would lead to
* Lower traffic congestion;
* More efficient public transport systems;
* Improved opportunities for infrastructure growth;
* New world class cultural facilities;
* Reduced greenhouse gas emissions;
* Greater social cohesion; and
* Smarter water usage.
The CCCLM says the partnership would be driven by a new Capital Cities Policy aimed at boosting productivity and attracting capital, business investment, a skilled-up workforce and strategies to promote innovation.
According to the Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore, the projects were “vital” to recapitalising the nation’s most significant cities.
“Bringing them to fruition through a visionary and well resourced partnership with the Federal Government will allow the Prime Minister to take the lead on our ability to be more competitive, innovative and productive,” Ms Moore said.
“The cities are committed to playing their part, financially and through provision of expertise and knowledge, to help deliver initiatives in partnership with governments and the business community.”
Lord Mayor of Melbourne, John So said the projects would set the tone for development for the next century.
“It is recognised that in a global market, the city and the regions must work together to maximise national competitiveness and prosperity,” Mr So said.
The CCCLM is to present its plans to the Commonwealth in August.
The Projects:
Sydney
Light Rail Pre-Metro Network
Re-use of Water within Green Square.
Integrated Bicycle Network
Melbourne
Recycled Water for Inner Melbourne Parks.
Moving Freight.
Moving People
Canberra
Water Security for the ACT and surrounding NSW
National Convention Centre
City Bypasses and Peripheral Parkways.
Adelaide
Riverbank Events Space-Torrens Lake Bridge.
City Tram Loop.
Water-Proofing the City
Brisbane
TransApex Northern Link.
Australia Trade Coast South Recycled Water Scheme
Nation-wide Implementation of Alcohol Strategy 2006-09.
Darwin
Interpretive Centre for the Bombing of Darwin.
Community Information and Resource Centre
Strengthening Darwin’s Future..
Hobart
Hobart Visitor Centre Extension
Reusable and Recycled Materials.
Hobart CBD to Kingborough Council boundary cycleway infrastructure.
Perth
Northbridge Link
Old Treasury Buildings-Cathedral Square.
July 25, 2007
Heritage Modernised
Makeover of Act
An independent review of the NSW heritage legislation has been announced as part of the State’s planning reform agenda.
Planning Minister Frank Sartor said it was time to revisit the 30-year-old Heritage Act with a view to improving the efficiency of its processes.
“We want to protect our heritage values without an unnecessary regulatory burden – it’s about striking a balance,” Mr Sartor said.
“We’re already reviewing planning laws and discussing ways to make the planning system more efficient. It’s appropriate that we review heritage laws at the same time, given the synergies between planning and heritage.”
He said that the review was timely, following the 2005 Productivity Commission Report on duplications between State and Commonwealth heritage laws.
“The Federal Government has been taking an increasingly active role in heritage issues and there is growing overlap between the jurisdictions,” he said.
Mr Sartor has appointed a panel of experts, the chair of which will be former Department of Planning Director-General and current Liverpool City Council Administrator Gabrielle Kibble.
Also included on the panel are NSW Heritage Council Chair Michael Collins and lawyer John Whitehouse, the key architect of the Act.
More than 1500 items have been listed on the State Heritage Register in NSW and 79 Interim Heritage Orders have been issued.
Mr Sartor has asked the panel to prepare a draft discussion paper to be released for public comment.
Issues to be considered include alternatives to the listing process, such as heritage agreements; the role of the property owner or stakeholders and appeal rights; and the approval process for alterations to items on the register, including the rights of property owners and stakeholders.
“We are taking the opportunity, in the 30th year of the Act, to ensure it is working effectively and its processes are still sound,” Mr Sartor said.
July 25, 2007
World Competition
Worth Skilling For
NSW TAFEs are encouraging all Australians to take part in regional, national and international Worldskills competitions that pit the trade skills of young Australians against one another and then against young people from around the world.
Whether an employee, employer, teacher, training provider or industry leader, the independent body WorldSkills Australia has laid down the challenge to everyone to win gold for Australia.
According to WorldSkills Chief Executive, Mark Callaghan, the competitions inspire young people to be the best they can be.
“Not only do we challenge young people to achieve work skill excellence through trade and skill competitions –WorldSkills Australia is developing a new generation of business leaders,” Mr Callaghan said.
He said that participation in the competition was a great opportunity for young people to gain new skills, develop self confidence and showcase their talent.
Business sponsorship of the competition was also fruitful as it gave employers the opportunity to display their commitment to skill development.
Individuals and organisations interested in participating in the program of competitions should telephone (02) 6058 2810 or visit the WorldSkills Australia website at www.worldskills.org.au.
WorldSkills Australia is a not-for-profit organisation that runs skill and trade competitions for young Australians in more than 50 categories including welding, cookery, garment production, plumbing and jewellery-making.
The body is active in 29 regions nationwide and holds a National Competition every second year as well taking part in the international competition.
Upcoming competitions in August and September include heavy vehicle mechanics on 3 August, landscaping on 18 August, web design on 24 August and carpentry on 5 September.
July 25, 2007
Training Fires Up
NPWS Firefighters
Training for the coming fire season has started in earnest for 23 firefighters from the National Parks and Wildlife Service who have been put through their paces in a fitness exercise designed to prepare them for the challenges ahead.
The group was tested on a five-kilometre circuit in West Lane Cove, carrying backpacks as heavy as 20 kilograms and required to complete the course in a strict 45-minute time limit.
NPWS Regional Operations Coordinator for Sydney North, Graeme Mitchell said that the task-based assessments were an essential part of training for all NSW NPWS firefighters.
“Each year NPWS firefighters play a vital role in hazard reduction and wildfire combat across the State in what can often be challenging and strenuous conditions,” Mr Mitchell said.
“…That is why we need to ensure they are at their peak physical and medical condition to be able to meet these challenges head-on.”
Once a firefighter passes the physical assessment and the fire preparedness training elements they are considered fit to serve anywhere in the state.
Sydney North region's fitness testing was conducted on Friday 20 July at the Chatswood Rotary War Memorial athletics field on Mowbray Road, West Lane Cove from 9:30am and media were invited to attend the event.
July 25, 2007
A-G Not Guilty On
Court Closures
Attorney-General, John Hatzistergos has denied the Government plans to close local Courts, saying instead there were plans being considered to improve them.
Mr Hatzistergos said there was nothing unusual about a review of the Courts system by the Attorney General’s Department because the Government was constantly looking at ways of improving the Courts network.
He said recent comments that the criminal justice system was being “dumbed down” were misleading and causing undue concern in local communities.
“We will be talking to local communities and our Court staff about how we can make sure the community is getting the services it needs,” he said.
Mr Hatzistergos said the NSW Government recently opened a $5 million court in Blacktown, a $9.7 million Children's Court at Broadmeadow, an $11.5 million complex at Mt Druitt and a $21.2 million courthouse at Bankstown.
He said it had also built additional courtrooms at Orange and Moree and another was under construction at Nowra.
The “state-of-the-art” $330 million Parramatta Justice Precinct is to be completed by the end of this year.
Mr Hatzistergos said that according to the Productivity Commission’s Report on Government Services 2007, the NSW District Court, Local Court and Children’s Court were the nation’s most prompt in dealing with criminal matters.
“The Government’s investment in our courts is unparalleled,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
July 25, 2007
RTA Issues Paper
On “Road Age”
The Roads and Traffic Authority has issued a discussion paper exploring issues associated with older drivers in the community.
“Maintaining mobility for elderly people is a growing challenge being faced across Australia,” a spokesman said.
“This is a complex and sensitive issue – we have to make sure older drivers are safe on our roads without compromising their independence.”
More than 88,000 NSW licence-holders are aged over 80 and the Australian Bureau of Statistics predicts that that group will grow more than any other in the next 30 years.
The paper posits options for altering existing licensing arrangements for drivers in their late 70s and 80s
“NSW currently has a comprehensive regime for licensing older drivers,” the spokesman said.
“The paper examines some of the road safety issues associated with an ageing driving population and puts to the community an alternative licensing system for elderly people.
“It is important we strike a reasonable balance between safety and mobility.”
Public comment on the paper – which can be viewed at www.rta.nsw.gov.au/licensing or by calling the RTA on 132213 for a copy - is invited until Friday 19 October.
The RTA is to consult directly with the NRMA, Staysafe Committee, Minister’s Advisory Committee on Ageing, Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association, Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care, Council of the Aged and Alzheimer’s Australia, and will consider all submissions before making recommendations about older driver licensing to the Government.
July 25, 2007
Emergency Awards
On Safe Ground
Emergency Management Australia is calling for nominations for the Australian Safer Communities Awards.
Presented annually, the awards provide an opportunity for employees in State or Local Government, business, or a volunteer/community organisations to enter innovative projects into a national program.
Entrants must have been actively involved in emergency management, with State and Territory winners going on to be judged in the national awards.
Criteria for the awards include excellence in all aspects of emergency management, including risk assessment, research, education and training, information and knowledge management, prevention, preparedness, response and recovery.
The seven streams, based broadly on the type of organisation which lodges an entry, are Federal and State Government Agencies; Local Government; volunteer organisations and community groups where membership is substantially voluntary; Private Sector organisations; researchers and research bodies; combinations of any of the above (such as joint projects); and projects which are of national significance or cross-jurisdictional.
The two categories covered in the awards are Pre-Disaster and Post-Disaster.
Pre-Disaster covers projects designed to prevent or mitigate disasters and emergencies or their efforts. Post-Disaster covers response, recovery and related activities.
Entry forms are available for download from the Victorian Office of the Emergency Services Commissioner website at www.oesc.vic.gov.au.
The closing date for entries is Friday, 3 August. Entries to this year’s awards must cover projects which were commenced after January 2006.
July 25, 2007
Election All Clear
For Blind Voters
Voters who are blind or vision-impaired will, for the first time this year, be able to cast a secret and independent vote in the upcoming Federal election.
The Minister in charge of elections, Special Minister of State, Gary Nairn said a trial of electronically assisted voting.would be conducted at 29 locations across Australia.
“This is a trial that the Government strongly supports to enable people who are blind or vision impaired to have the opportunity for a secret vote,” Mr Nairn said.
“Electronic voting will be available for two weeks in the lead up to, and on election day, in 29 electorates.
He said the Australian Electoral Commission would be demonstrating the electronic voting machines to people with vision impairment and local support groups at each location before the election.
He said the electronic voting machines would not be available to people who did not have vision issues.
“The locations were selected by the Australian Electoral Commission after a careful process of consultation with relevant peak bodies and service organisations around Australia and an examination of potential locations,” Mr Nairn said.
He said electors who were blind or vision impaired, but who would not be near a site involved in the trial, still had the option of casting an assisted vote.
“There are many people in Australia whose vision impairment means they need assistance with voting,” Mr Nairn said.
“This trial is a step towards giving them the independence and privacy to cast a secret vote.”
The sites chosen for the trial are Wollongong, Parramatta, Enfield, Chatswood, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo and Albury in NSW; Melbourne, Kooyong, Ballarat, Shepparton and Warragul, Geelong in Victoria; Adelaide, Giles Plains and Noarlunga in South Australia; Darwin and Alice Springs in the Northern Territory; Brisbane City, Brisbane North, Gold Coast, Hervey Bay and Cairns in Queensland; Hobart and Launceston in Tasmania; Perth, Mandurah and Bunbury in Western Australia and Canberra in the ACT.
July 25, 2007
Pipeline Pricing Is
Water Under Bridge
Payments to Sydney Water by recycling company Services Sydney Pty Ltd for sewage transportation services through the North Head, Bondi and Malabar pipeline network have been determined as Sydney Water's regulated retail price minus its avoidable costs, plus any facilitation costs associated with providing the access.
The determination was made by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission in its Arbitration report on a dispute over access which had arisen between Services Sydney Pty Ltd and the Sydney Water Corporation.
The dispute related to the most appropriate method of pricing access to sewage transportation services supplied by Sydney Water through the network.
ACCC Chairman, Graham Samuel said that the access pricing methodology - the first application of access pricing to the water and sewerage industry in Australia - promoted effective competition in the sector.
“It provides scope for an access seeker that is more efficient than Sydney Water in undertaking the contestable activities associated with providing sewerage services to enter and compete with Sydney Water,” Mr Samuel said.
“…In determining the appropriate methodology, the ACCC had regard to the structural features of the sector, including that Sydney Water is a vertically integrated supplier with regulated retail prices set on a geographically uniform basis by the NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal.”
Services Sydney has applied to the Australian Competition Tribunal for review of the determination.
The Arbitration Report, which provides the ACCC's Final determination and Statement of reasons in full, is available from the ACCC's website www.accc.gov.au
July 25, 2007
Bright Outlook At
Orange Courthouse
Orange Courthouse’s video conferencing system has been upgraded to the tune of $350,000, Attorney General John Hatzistergos has announced.
“The upgrade includes a new bail video conferencing suite for the local court, a new video conferencing suite for the district court and an improvement of the existing remote witness facilities,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
The technology allows defendants to make bail applications from correctional facilities, with a view to improving courtroom safety and reducing prisoner transport costs.
Additionally, the enhanced remote witness room is designed to make it easier for children and sexual assault victims to give evidence.
“The remote witness room is a video conferencing facility located in a discrete part of the courthouse, which allows vulnerable witnesses to give evidence without having to enter the courtroom,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
He said that testimony recorded in the facility could be used in future proceedings such as appeals.
“This ensures the witness does not have to provide evidence over and over again.”
Thanks to the upgrade, Orange’s local and district courts would now be able to play back all five standard forms of electronic evidence presented in the courtroom, that is CD, analogue tape, DVD, VCR and VGA for input from a laptop computer.
July 25, 2007
Lawyers Raise Bar
At Legal Academy
An Australian Academy of Law has been established in Brisbane on the recommendation of the Australian Law Reform Commission.
Stemming from an ALRC report in 2000 which highlighted the problems associated with a lack of cohesion and direction in the legal profession, the AAL will have the task of strengthening the ‘legal culture’ of the profession.
President of the ALRC, Professor David Weisbrot, who is a Foundation Fellow of the AAL, said the 2000 report made it clear that ethics, education and accountability played critical roles in shaping the Australian legal culture. This, in turn, determined how well the legal system operated in the public interest.
“The Australian legal profession has changed dramatically over the past three decades,” Professor Weisbrot said.
“The profession is now subject to competition and consumer laws; incorporation and multidisciplinary partnerships are now permitted (and) legal practice has gone national.”
He said lawyers had been asked to be ‘more businesslike’ and they had responded accordingly.
“But this puts tremendous pressure on the ‘service ideal’ that traditionally distinguished ‘professions’ from businesses,” he said. “We now desperately need to rethink and rearticulate the core ethics and principles that bind lawyers together.
“I don’t think that it’s overly dramatic to say that we need to fight for the soul of the profession.”
Professor Wesibrot said the AAL would bring together the leading thinkers in the various branches of the profession, including senior Judges, practitioners and academics, to consider issues of legal scholarship, education and training, and national ethical and practice standards.
“The desperate need for the Academy of Law can perhaps best be seen in the strong endorsements received from eminent members of the legal profession,” Professor Weisbrot said.
The Chief Justice of the High Court, Murray Gleeson had agreed to be Patron of the new Academy and strong support had also been offered by the Council of Australian Law Deans; State and Territory Chief Justices; law societies, bar associations; and law reformers.
July 25, 2007
Rocks Rapt In
Paper Bag Trial
Sydney’s Rocks area could become one of the first plastic bag-free zones in the city with more than 70 businesses taking part in a trial of paper bags instead of plastic.
The weekend-long trial held earlier this month saw 45,000 paper bags supplied to businesses, including take-away outlets, clothing boutiques, galleries and gift shops in The Rocks and stalls at The Rocks Market.
Planning Minister Frank Sartor announced the trial which was an initiative of the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority.
“Around five billion plastic bags are used each year around Australia and The Rocks
shopkeepers are to be congratulated for trying this plastic ban,” Mr Sartor said.
“These bags can take up to 1000 years to break down in the environment and they kill thousands of marine mammals and seabirds each year.
“It’s fitting that the birthplace of Sydney leads the way to a more sustainable future.”
Mr Sartor said The Rocks had been steadily gaining a reputation as a green precinct, with energy-efficient lights fitted along stairs and laneways and a number of buildings switching to 100 per cent renewable energy.
“This initiative will build on the existing projects, which will already slash carbon dioxide emissions by around 1860 tonnes per year – equivalent to taking more than 400 cars off Sydney’s roads,” Mr Sartor said.
The Sydney Visitor Centre in the heart of The Rocks has used recycled paper bags since November 2006, and a $5.6 million conversion of 86-88 George St will see the heritage building transformed into offices boasting the last word in sustainability features.
“When this free trial finishes, shop-owners can purchase the recycled content paper bags through the Sydney Visitor Centre,” Mr Sartor said.
“Hopefully tourists and visitors to The Rocks will show their support for the shop-owners and make sure their purchases are carried home in a paper bag.”
July 25, 2007
Premier In Groove
For Better Records
The Premier’s Office has directed all Departments and Agencies to adopt a comprehensive Records Retention and Disposal scheme by 2009/2010.
In a Ministerial Memorandum over Acting Premier John Watkins’s name, Agencies are reminded of the need to manage official records efficiently and responsibly and that a key component of effective records management is knowing how long records need to be retained.
“It has been observed that many records stored by Agencies are no longer required and that some are only stored because the legal instrument to dispose of the records has not been developed,” the Memorandum says.
It says all Agencies should have in place “Authorities” that set out how long the different classes of records an Agency generated must be kept to meet legal, operational and other requirements.
It says the State Records Authority had already developed Authorities covering the common types of records but individual agencies were to work out how long records unique to their functions must be kept, based on their knowledge of their legal environment and operational needs.
“Some agencies have developed such Authorities but many have not,” the Memorandum says.
Agencies without Retention and Disposal Authorities are directed to contact State Records by 17 August 2007 to discuss the planning and timetabling for developing them.
The Memorandum says regular use of Retention and Disposal Authorities will result in benefits to the agency and to Government by reducing the costs of records storage; reducing the time and cost associated with finding specific records when they are needed; and minimising the risks arising from illegal or unmanaged destruction of records and from inadvertently keeping records that should be destroyed.
“State Records is already engaged in gathering relevant information from Agencies and Agency cooperation to date has been appreciated.”
It says Agencies are also required to identify records that should be maintained by State Archives.
“Normally only a small proportion of an agency's records are kept as State archives.
“Records designated as State archives, and which are no longer in use for official purposes in the Agency, should be routinely and systematically transferred to State Records' care.
“An agency should not retain such records on its premises unnecessarily, particularly where it is unable to provide a suitable storage environment for valuable archives.”
The Memorandum is available at www.premiers.nsw.gov.au
July 18, 2007
ETPs Rolled Over
In Super Changes
Changes to the rules governing superannuation have impacted on the way Eligible Termination Payments are treated by the NSW Public Service.
Among the changes made by the Commonwealth is a new ruling that ETPs , including voluntary redundancy payments, can no longer be rolled over into superannuation funds.
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has issued a Circular outlining the changes and advising Departments and Agencies of interim measures that can be put in place in place while the taxation implications of the changes are clarified.
According to the Circular, ETPs will still be able to be rolled over until 30 June 2012 provided the employee concerned was entitled to the payment under a written contract or workplace agreement entered before the Federal Budget day, 9 May 2007.
The new rules came into effect on 1 July.
“Redundancy payments made to most NSW public sector employees are made in accordance with Premier’s Memorandum 97-27,” the Circular says.
“The Department of Premier and Cabinet is currently seeking a tax ruling for these payments to be transitional ETPs.”
The Circular advises Departments and Agencies to defer making any voluntary redundancy payments until the outcome of the tax ruling is known
It says however that the employees concerned must agree to the deferral.
“The written agreement must include the employee’s acknowledgement that there will be no additional payments for any foregone interest during the deferral period.
“Under the new rules, ETPs must be paid within 12 months of the termination.
The Circular says that where an ETP is deferred, both the taxable and any tax exempt components must be deferred.
“Any part of a redundancy payment that is for unused leave, or is the tax free amount of a bona fide redundancy payment ($7,020 plus $3,511 per year of service in 2007/08) is not an ETP and should not be deferred.”
The Circular may be accessed at www.premiers.nsw.gov.au and a further Circular has been foreshadowed for when the tax ruling has been made.
July 18, 2007
Premier In Groove
For Better Records
The Premier’s Office has directed all Departments and Agencies to adopt a comprehensive Records Retention and Disposal scheme by 2009/2010.
In a Ministerial Memorandum over Acting Premier John Watkins’s name, Agencies are reminded of the need to manage official records efficiently and responsibly and that a key component of effective records management is knowing how long records need to be retained.
“It has been observed that many records stored by Agencies are no longer required and that some are only stored because the legal instrument to dispose of the records has not been developed,” the Memorandum says.
It says all Agencies should have in place “Authorities” that set out how long the different classes of records an Agency generated must be kept to meet legal, operational and other requirements.
It says the State Records Authority had already developed Authorities covering the common types of records but individual agencies were to work out how long records unique to their functions must be kept, based on their knowledge of their legal environment and operational needs.
“Some agencies have developed such Authorities but many have not,” the Memorandum says.
Agencies without Retention and Disposal Authorities are directed to contact State Records by 17 August 2007 to discuss the planning and timetabling for developing them.
The Memorandum says regular use of Retention and Disposal Authorities will result in benefits to the agency and to Government by reducing the costs of records storage; reducing the time and cost associated with finding specific records when they are needed; and minimising the risks arising from illegal or unmanaged destruction of records and from inadvertently keeping records that should be destroyed.
“State Records is already engaged in gathering relevant information from Agencies and Agency cooperation to date has been appreciated.”
It says Agencies are also required to identify records that should be maintained by State Archives.
“Normally only a small proportion of an agency's records are kept as State archives.
“Records designated as State archives, and which are no longer in use for official purposes in the Agency, should be routinely and systematically transferred to State Records' care.
“An agency should not retain such records on its premises unnecessarily, particularly where it is unable to provide a suitable storage environment for valuable archives.”
The Memorandum is available at www.premiers.nsw.gov.au
July 18, 2007
Survey to Monitor
Health System
An extensive survey of more than 200,000 users of the NSW health system is to be used to improve health services delivery across NSW.
Minister for Health, Reba Meagher announced the survey which will canvass the views of people who had received care in a public hospital, outpatient department or community health service during February 2007.
She said the patients’ would be invited to share their views as part of the first Annual Patient Survey.
“By collecting first-hand accounts of patient experiences in a range of health settings, we can identify clear opportunities to improve those services and ultimately deliver better patient care,” Ms Meagher said.
“This comprehensive, statewide patient survey is the first of its kind in NSW.
“It will be followed up on an annual basis so those working in the health system can better understand and respond to the needs of patients.”
She said the survey would ask questions about aspects of care that research showed patients valued, including access to care, coordination of care, physical comfort, emotional support and continuity of care and transition after discharge
She said the survey results would be evaluated by the end of this year.
“The results of this survey will inform regular reports about the things that we are doing well within the public health system as well as the areas where we need to improve,” Ms Meagher said.
“The survey is only one of several strategies being used by NSW Health to gain a more detailed picture of patient experiences within the public health system.
“This survey complements the work of the NSW Health Survey in monitoring the factors that impact upon the health of the people living in this state.”
July 18, 2007
Mobile Van Revs Up
Consumer Message
A mobile education van that takes the consumer affairs messages into the streets and suburbs has been launched by Fair Trading Minister, Linda Burney.
The new and improved vehicle will deliver fair trading information to both consumers and traders alike in the neighbourhoods and areas where they live and work.
The launch took place in Anzac Mall in Campsie where interested consumers and traders got to talk to the Minister and Fair Trading staff about a wide range of issues.
Ms Burney said when combined with the network of 24 Fair Trading Centres, the van was an important part of Fair Trading’s strategy to take the consumer protection message out of the office and to where it is needed.
“The van allows Fair Trading greater flexibility to get out into the community,” Ms Burney said.
“Staff will now be highly visible when attending community events, shows, festivals, shopping malls, schools and wherever people meet.
She said the van unit was fully equipped with brochures and fact sheets that covered the wide range of services provided by Fair Trading.
“Importantly, the design of the van allows staff to easily change and display information so this it is always relevant to the community or audience where it is being used.”
July 18, 2007
Lawyers’ Art Is
Picture Perfect
Lismore Legal Aid office celebrated NAIDOC Week by unveiling a painting by Aboriginal artist Adrian Cameron which it plans to hang to help Aboriginal clients feel welcome.
Mr Cameron, a Bundjalung man, has loaned his painting Goanna Headland, to Legal Aid for that purpose.
Unveiling the painting coincided with celebrations held around Australia to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Solicitor-in-Charge of the office, Tracey Randall said this year’s 50th celebration of NAIDOC Week was a time to reflect on past achievements and an opportunity to look forward to the next 50 years.
She said this was a particularly appropriate time to think on the role that Legal Aid would play in the years ahead, helping address the inequalities still suffered by Aboriginal people.
She said Lismore Legal Aid had very close links with Aboriginal communities as Legal Aid lawyers regularly provided free legal advice in family and civil law matters to Aboriginal communities in Lismore and outlying areas such as Bonalbo, Tabulam and Woodenbong.
She said the office also worked in close partnership with the Lismore office of the Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT).
“We understand that Aboriginal people can be a little unsure about dealing with bureaucracies that are traditionally seen to be for white fellas.
“We’d like more Aboriginal people to know about us and feel confident, knowing that when they come in to see us, that they will be listened to,” Ms Randall said.
She hoped Mr Cameron’s painting would help make Aboriginal clients feel comfortable and welcome.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by Mr Cameron, Lismore Mayor, Merv King and elders from the Aboriginal Community Justice Group and staff from the Aboriginal Legal Service.
July 18, 2007
Torrent of Payments
For Flood Relief
Emergency assistance amounting to $15 million has been paid out by Centrelink to people affected by the Hunter and Central Coast floods.
Federal Minister for Human Services, Senator Chris Ellison announced the $15 million milestone saying nearly 13,000 claims had been processed, totalling $15.67 million, since the Commonwealth’s Disaster Recovery Payment assistance package was announced on 10 June.
“The damage and impact of the floods has been widespread across the Hunter and Central Coast region and Centrelink staff have been working tirelessly to get help to those in need,” Senator Ellison said.
“Along with staff from the Red Cross, Samaritans and the NSW Government, Centrelink workers door-knocked houses in affected areas to check on residents’ wellbeing and ensure they’re aware of help available.”
He said processing staff were working well into the night to process claims as quickly as possible.
He said one Centrelink officer had her home and most of her possessions destroyed when her roof collapsed while she was in bed, but that did not deter her from turning up for work on time.
“She showed up for work on Tuesday ….wanting to help people who were worse off than her,” he said.
Senator Ellison said 30 Centrelink staff were flown in from around Australia to help with the recovery effort, many of them veterans of Queensland’s Cyclone Larry recovery last year.
“I commend Centrelink staff and their colleagues from the NSW Government and community organisations for getting help to people when they needed it,” Senator Ellison said.
July 18, 2007
Growth Plans In
North Go West
A draft plan to slow the residential growth rate of Sydney’s Inner North has been released for public comment.
Designed to be implemented as the Metropolitan Strategy in Sydney’s Inner North, the draft plan proposes an additional 60,000 jobs and around 30,000 new homes to 2031 in a subregion including the Hunters Hill, Lane Cove, Mosman, North Sydney, Ryde and Willoughby Local Government Areas.
Department of Planning Director-General Sam Haddad said the draft strategy would be on public exhibition until Monday, September 17.
“The Department of Planning worked closely with local councils to prepare these plans,” Mr Haddad said. “Interested community members are urged to read the draft strategy and provide comment.”
He said the plans were proposing an average rate of 1,100 new dwellings per year across the subregion, to 2031 which was nearly 40 per cent less than the annual average of 1,800 new dwellings over the last decade.
“At the same time, the draft strategy allows for jobs growth in the region, including in the global economic corridor.”
Mr Haddad said the draft subregional strategy supported key State Plan priorities to provide more jobs closer to home and improve housing affordability.
“Under the Metropolitan Strategy, 80 per cent of Sydney’s existing suburban streets will be quarantined from increased density.”
The draft Inner North Subregional Strategy is available at www.metrostrategy.nsw.gov.au
July 18, 2007
Panel in Van
For GM OK
An independent panel has been appointed to review the State’s moratorium on the planting of genetically modified (GM) food crops.
The NSW Gene Technology Act 2003 which imposed the GM Crop Moratorium expires in March 2008
According to the Department of Primary Industries, the review will be comprehensive and explore issues directly associated with trade and market access resulting from the potential production of commercially grown GM crops in NSW.
DPI said the Government was keen to canvass all possible options and stakeholder opinions before making a decision on the future of GM crops after March next year.
“The review is about exploring the impacts on marketing and trade of either extending or modifying legislation, or allowing it to expire,” a DPI statement said..
“From the outset it is important to understand that State Government is responsible for legislation identifying and managing the risks of these two areas - trade and market access.
“The Commonwealth regulates the use of GM in Australia as it relates to human health and safety and the environment.”
DPI said there needed to be a clear delineation of these responsibilities before the review could get underway.
The independent panel is to be chaired by former Nationals Minister for Agriculture, Ian Armstrong, supported by agricultural scientist and lawyer Kathryn Adams and Professor Timothy Reeves.
It will shortly release details of the process for stakeholder consultation and submissions.
July 18, 2007
NPWS Shines Light
On Black Art
The winner of the National Parks and Wildlife Service’s Northern Rivers Region Aboriginal Art Award has been announced at the Grafton Regional Gallery.
Karla Dickens was named the winner of the award with her painting Then, Now, When, takinghome the open category winner’s prize of $3000. It was the second time Karla had won the award.
Other artists to be recognised were Garth Lena in the 3D category with his timber sculpture Mother and Sister's;. Teresa Anderson and Jenny Frost for their collaborative painting Journey Meeting Coincidence; and Courtney Gibson who won the Youth Award for her work Who I am. Seven other artists were highly commended.
According to NPWS Community Relations Ranger for the Northern Rivers Region,
Kerrie Battese, the task of judging the competition was taken on by internationally acclaimed Aboriginal artist and curator Djon Mudine, who was very impressed with the high quality of the entries.
Around 100 people attended the awards presentation, which also featured an Indigenous dance performance by the Bundjalung Dance Troupe.
According to Kerrie Battese, the People's Choice award of $1,000 was still to be awarded.
"Members of the public are encouraged to come in and vote for their favourite. The award is sponsored by the Southern Cross University's 'Gnibi' Indigenous college and the winner will be announced after the exhibition finishes on 12 August."
The exhibition, entitled Past Present Future, is in its sixth year and has over 70 entries on display.
The Grafton Regional Gallery is at 158 Fitzroy Street, Grafton.
July 18, 2007
Aboriginal Council
Reconciles Past
Chairperson of the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, Bev Manton, has used her NAIDOC week address to welcome the Council back from the edge of oblivion and lament the fact that few people know what it does.
After more than three years under administration, the NSWALC was revived with State-wide elections in May which returned a representative voice for the State’s Aboriginal people.
“Few people outside of the Aboriginal community are aware of what NSWALC is and what it does,” Ms Manton said.
“It’s a self-funding statutory authority introduced under the Aboriginal Land Rights Act (1983)
“It is totally unique in both an Australian and global context and enjoys bi-partisan support in the NSW Parliament”
She said the Council’s goal was to empower Aboriginal people in NSW through economic and social independence
“The land council network oversees an Aboriginal-owned land estate of more than 616,460 hectares with an unimproved capital value of more than $2 billion.
“If success were measured in normal commercial terms – by the amount of money we have in the bank and the amount of land in our portfolio – NSWALC and its land council network would be considered a shining beacon of enterprise.”
Ms Manton said the NSWALC Board represented the interests of more than 23,000 registered members of 121 Local Aboriginal Land Councils across the State
“The newly elected Council will be responsible for taking the system into the next phase of land rights—the sustainable development and management of our land base for the benefit of present and future generations,” she said.
“The new Council is operating at a crucial period in the history of land rights in NSW
It will be working with new legislation following recent amendments to the Act, a new Minister, a new Parliament and a new management team”
Ms Manton said the NSWALC was very aware that land rights alone could not solve the deep-seated and complex disadvantage facing Aboriginal people.
“Working with Government and most importantly, business, we must innovate to generate economic activity and deliver socioeconomic outcomes to Aboriginal people which have mostly eluded this nation to date.”
She was critical of the Commonwealth Government’s intervention into Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory.
July 18, 2007
Hunter Hunting For
Foster Parents
The Department of Community Services has issued an appeal for Aboriginal people in the Hunter area who may be able to help care for children and young people who can’t live at home with their families.
Central Coast Regional Director of DoCS, Anne Maree Gleeson said it was vital that more Aboriginal carers came on board to care for Aboriginal children and young people.
“Most Aboriginal children in care are placed with relatives or kin, but in some cases this isn’t possible,” Ms Gleeson said.
“We need to have a pool of Aboriginal foster carers to provide a safe and caring home for these children.”
She said it was important that Aboriginal children in care were placed with Aboriginal families to help them retain links to their culture and community.
“If anyone in the Aboriginal community in the Hunter area feels they could take a child into their home, or is interested in finding out more information they should contact DoCS.”
“Children and young people in the area need short, medium and long-term placements, as well as respite and crisis care,’’ Ms Gleeson said.
She said foster carers could be any age or gender, a single person or a couple, as long as they were prepared to provide a happy and stable home for children aged 0 to18 years of age.
“Our priority is to match children with their carers so the bigger the pool of carers we have, the better options we have available for each child’s needs.”
She said DoCS provided intensive training for carers and backed it up with ongoing support, advice and financial assistance
For more information, contact the Hunter Foster Care Team on (02) 49 438811.
July 18, 2007
Island Pests Learn
Of Ranger Danger
The National Parks and Wildlife Service is employing the very latest in high-tech techniques to rid one of the State’s most picturesque islands of two of civilisation’s oldest pests.
Global Positioning Satellites, a helicopter and a state-of-the-art drop bucket are being used to bait mice and rabbits on the 80 hectare Montague Island Nature Reserve, near Narooma on the South Coast.
The project is part of a plan to eradicate introduced animals from the island to help native plants become re-established. NPWS expects that this will in turn provide safe habitat for thousands of seabirds including penguins, shearwaters, terns and oystercatchers.
According to the coordinator of the operation, Nicholas Carlile. Montague Island is one of the state’s most important seabird roosting and breeding islands.
“Seven seabird and shorebird species breed there, including the threatened sooty oystercatcher, Mr Carlile said.
“Montague is also the second largest little penguin breeding area on the east coast of Australia.”
He said however that the introduced kikuyu grass threatens the seabirds and their habitat with about 360 penguins being strangled each year. In addition there was the threat of bushfire.
“We’re combating this threat by gradually spraying and burning the kikuyu and planting native trees such as banksias, acacias and casuarinas, but mice eat the native seeds and rabbits eat the planted seedlings, preventing native shrubs from recolonising the island.
Mr Carlile said it was “vital” that the two pests be eradicated.
He said around 1.5 tonnes of a fast-acting poison that doesn’t persist in the environment, would be dropped on the island from a helicopter and staff would use a new type of aerial spreader and GPS to ensure it was evenly and thoroughly spread.
The operation was to be spread over a couple of days, depending on Montague’s “notoriously unpredictable weather.”
July 18, 2007
Invertebrate Pix
Lack Backbone
The Australian Museum’s annual Up Close and Spineless invertebrate photography competition is on again.
Now in its sixth year, the competition celebrates and exposes the world of invertebrates - animals without backbones - which inhabit both land and sea and make up more than per cent of all animal species on Earth!
The Museum’s Visitor Services Manager, Fara Pelarek said the competition was open to both professional and amateur photographers and offered great cash prizes and photography equipment for the award winners.
Ms Pelarek said some of last year's entrants captured beautiful insights into the invertebrate world with photographs of bluebottles, butterflies, beetles, bees, crickets and crabs.
"The competition helps raise awareness of the wonderful world of invertebrates, while giving people the opportunity to display their photographic skills and talents," Ms Pelarek said.
She said the competition consisted of four categories - Primary School, Secondary School, Open and Professional - with a winner and highly commended selected from each.
The winners of the Open, Secondary and Primary School categories each receive a digital camera, while the winner of the Professional category will be awarded a $600 gift certificate to spend on photographic supplies.
Entries will be judged on a range of criteria including clarity of detail; interesting behaviour displayed; aesthetics; composition; and, unusual or rare species.
Ms Pelarek said entry forms and conditions could be obtained from her on (02) 9320 6165 or by visiting www.australianmuseum.net.au Entries close 31 August 2007
July 18, 2007
Bollywood Display
Rings Museum’s Bell
The Powerhouse Museum is to host an exhibition celebrating one of the world’s most prolific film industries.
Cinema India: The Art of Bollywood captures the excitement and glamour of Bollywood and brings together some of the most remarkable examples of Indian cinema art.
The Indian film industry is the largest in the world, producing nearly 1000 films a year ranging from regional-language cinema to art house. Based in Mumbai (formerly Bombay), Bollywood is considered the national cinema of India.
The Powerhouse exhibition explores the phenomenon of Bollywood, primarily through film advertising materials – posters, hoardings, lobby cards and song books – from the 1930s to the present day.
It will also feature the dazzling Bollywood costumes, as well as original film trailers and song and dance sequences highlighting the most celebrated stars of Indian cinema.
By charting the development of Bollywood advertising over the years, the exhibition also provides an insight into the historical, political and cultural changes that have shaped the country.
India’s struggle for independence, the search for a national identity and the influence of traditional and western cultures are all reflected in the films and marketing material. The experience of the non resident Indian is also examined in a section on Bollywood movies filmed in Australia.
Along with love and romance, the exhibition explores the role of family and the depiction of women in Bollywood movies, including a special section in the display covering the unconventional, Australian-born Bollywood star of the 1930s and 40s known as ‘Fearless Nadia’ – queen of the stunt film.
July 18, 2007
Companies Win Gold
At Beijing Olympics
NSW companies were in a strong position to make the Beijing Olympics pay off according to the Minister for State Development, Ian Macdonald.
Mr Macdonalds aid the Beijing Olympics were still 13 months away but many NSW businesses had already won gold.
He said, with the support of the Government, some NSW companies had made major contributions to Beijing 2008 projects valued at hundreds of millions of dollars and were poised to add further value.
"For the past five years the NSW Government has been working hard to sell NSW expertise in Olympics planning and delivery to Beijing,” Mr Macdonald said. “The results for this State have been tremendous.”
He said the Olympics work was being targeted through the Government's Sydney-Beijing Olympic Secretariat (SBOS) with NSW companies receiving high level strategic support, through assisted introductions to Olympic planning officials in China, and through access to key Beijing delegations visiting NSW.
Mr Macdonald said the NSW Government has focused heavily on opportunities to supply products, technologies and services across a wide range of areas for the Beijing Olympics.
"Areas of focus have included master-planning, facilities and precinct design, Olympics overlay design and planning, games planning, environmental management, transport and traffic planning, telecommunications and IT, sustainable/renewable energy, health and food safety programs, and many games technologies," he said.
July 18, 2007
Funds and Games
For Charity
NSW Police, the Rural Fire Services and the NSW Fire Brigades have taken part in a charity wheelchair race in main street of Leura in the Blue Mountains, as part of a fundraising drive for Sir Roden Cutler Charities.
The fundraising project has been travelling around NSW since 24 May and will continue until November.
The main street of Leura was closed for the race which raised money for people in the bush.
Police patron of the Sir Roden Cutler charities, Deputy Police Commissioner Terry Collins presented the trophy to the winners and a cheque was donated in support of a Blue Mountains charity, one of 100 in rural towns and cities throughout NSW that would benefit from the event.
Police Superintendent Paroz, of Blue Mountains Local Area Command said the event was a bit of fun for the community, but “more importantly it helps raise funds for people in the bush."
July 11, 2007
Super Sacrifice Is
Pain With Gain
Members of the State Superannuation Scheme are now able to salary sacrifice all or part of their compulsory superannuation contributions following a change to the law in NSW.
Agencies have been asked to allow members to commence the practice as soon as possible.
In a Circular issued by the Department of Premier and Cabinet, members are assured that the salary sacrificed contributions will not affect superable salary, or for Senior Executive Service staff, their maximum superable salary that can be nominated.
The Circular says that State Super will write to every SSS member about the new arrangements, advising them of their current superable salary and the level of contributions required to be paid into SSS.
Staff taking up the offer are advised to lodge their salary sacrifice election with their employer, not with State Super.
More information about salary sacrificing superannuation ca be obtained from State Super's Customer Service - 1300 130 096 – or from the State Super website at www.statesuper.nsw.gov.au
A handy calculator is included on the site to assist members.
According to the Circular, SSS members can continue to make optional contributions to First State Super or other accumulation funds but are advised to seek independent financial advice on their salary sacrifice arrangements.
In a second important change, superannuation funds are now permitted to accept employer contributions made on behalf of staff between the ages of 70 and 75.
Until the introduction of the Commonwealth’s ‘Simpler Super’ on 1 July, funds were not allowed to accept employer contributions for staff 70 or over unless required under an award.
A second Circular (C2007-33) sets out the conditions under which the contributions can be accepted.
“These employees should be treated in the same way as employees eligible for membership of First State Super,” the Circular says.
“Employer contributions should be made on their behalf to First State Super or another complying superannuation fund of the employee's choice.”
July 11, 2007
Disclosure Campaign
Worth Whistling At
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has produced a poster and postcard in an effort to encourage NSW State and Local Government employees to report corrupt conduct and other inappropriate activity in their workplace.
The poster is for display in communal areas and the postcard explains how ‘protected disclosures’ worked.
ICAC Commissioner, Jerrold Cripps said that under The Protected Disclosures Act 14, it would be an offence to take detrimental action against any NSW Public Sector employee who blew the whistle on corrupt conduct, maladministration or serious and substantial waste of public money.
“It is important for State and Local Government staff to report wrongdoing in the NSW Public Sector,” Mr Cripps said.
“Through these new resources, staff can have information at their finger tips any time they need it to report information and know that they are protected from repercussions.”
He said the poster was available in a number of versions to suit a variety of working environments and the postcards included space for the name of the organisation’s disclosure officer/s, which were designated positions under each Agency’s compulsory internal reporting procedure.
Mr Cripps said that in NSW, a protected disclosure could be made to the ICAC about corrupt conduct, to the NSW Ombudsman about maladministration or to the Auditor-General about substantial and serious waste of public money.
He said ICAC received 235 disclosures in 2005-2006, containing 447 allegations. It also closed 351 matters that year as well, two of which led to charges being recommended to the Director of Public Prosecutions.
July 11, 2007
Jet Ski the Hero In
Giant Ship Rescue
The innovative use of a Department of Environment and Climate Change jet-ski played a major role in the successful refloating of the bulk carrier Pasha Bulker at Newcastle recently.
Equipped with state-of-the-art echo sounding equipment, the Department’s jet-ski was used to map sand levels and reef distribution around the stranded vessel - information vital to recovery plans put in place by the Newcastle Port Authority and the salvage company.
Team leader of DECC’s Coastal Unit, Phil Watson, said the Department's expertise was called on to survey the sea floor and rocky reefs around the Pasha Bulker.
"The team usually conducts hydrographic surveys to provide information about coastal erosion, sand movement and other coastal changes,” Mr Watson said..
“This is the first time that we've been asked to help in the recovery of a stranded ship."
He said.the key to the survey was the customised jet-ski was pioneered by DECC’s Hydrographic Surveyor, Stephen Holtznagel, and improved the Department's ability to acquire important data in the surf and close to breakwater structures.
“This is unique in Australia," Mr Watson said.
Mr Holtznagel said he'd developed the jet-ski technology because many areas simply were not accessible by conventional boat-mounted survey equipment.
"The jet-ski is much more manoeuvrable and much safer in shallow waters,” he said. “Particularly along a beach and close to breakwater structures where waves are generally encountered."
He said the vehicle was perfectly suited to Nobbys Beach, where the proximity of reef, elevated swells and unpredictable conditions made it impossible for a boat to get the necessary survey data close to the Pasha Bulker.
"Even given the greater manoeuvrability of the jet-ski, the conditions limited how close we could get to the vessel, but the improved data acquired certainly aided the Port Authority and salvage company to plan the salvage mission."
Phil Watson said a team of five DECC staff were involved in the survey and map production exercise.
"Although the collection of the data using the jet-ski is the most visible aspect of the operation, there is a lot of additional behind the scenes work required to convert the data into maps for use for the salvage operation," he said.
"We are continuing to survey the area following the successful removal of the Pasha Bulker to monitor the changing beach alignment created by the presence of the ship."
July 11, 2007
Commission Pays Out
In Payrise Case
Australia’s lowest-paid workers are set to receive an extra $10 in their pay packets after a decision by the Australian Fair Pay Commission to increase the standard Federal Minimum Wage.
The Commission has granted an increase of $10.26 per week in the minimum wage and in all pay scales up to $700 per week. The Commission said this would cover about 850,000 Australian workers who were reliant on pay scales, and therefore reliant on the Commission’s decisions.
The Commission also awarded an increase for those on more than $700 a week, or more than $36,000 per year, of $5.32 per week. It said this covered a further 350,000 workers.
Chair of the Commission, Professor Ian Harper, announced the increase as the second increase in a 10 month period.
“This decision I am announcing today is responsible and fair,” Professor Harper said.
“The Australian Fair Pay Commission acknowledges that Australia’s low paid and their employers need certainty. From this point forward, the Commission will announce an annual minimum wage-setting decision in July each year to be implemented in October,” he said
Professor Harper said that once again, the Commission had adopted a consultative approach to its wage review process. He said this was complemented by research conducted by the Australian Fair Pay Commission Secretariat and research presented in submissions.
He said the timing of the decision allowed the Commission to receive feedback from stakeholders about its first decision and its impact.
The Commission would continue to hear from stakeholders and monitor a range of economic and social indicators.
Professor Harper said that for its first decision in 2006 the Commission sourced information through public consultation, from submissions and through research conducted in-house and commissioned through external organisations. He said it undertook a similar process for its 2007 Wage-Setting Decision.
The consultations undertaken in the lead-up to the 2007 decision provided an opportunity for individuals and organisations representing the community, the business sector, Government and trade unions to put their views.
The combination of research, stakeholder meetings, consultations and submissions provided a range of opportunities for interested parties to contribute to the decision.
Professor Harper said the Commission’s next wage-setting decision is due in mid-2008. A public announcement would be made regarding the process for input into that decision.
July 11, 2007
Marriages Office
Ties Knots on 7/7
The NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages geared up for a very busy day of marriages on Saturday 7 July 2007, a day Registrar, Greg Curry, described as a “One in 100 years calendar event.”
Mr Curry said the portentous 7/7/07 occasion caused a sensation at the Registry with 24 couples tying the knot and forcing the Registry into overtime.
He said the Registry extended its Saturday hours to cope with demand: the first marriage booked to start at 9am and the last to finish after 8pm.
“In 1907, there were only two marriages on 7 July,” he said. “This year the Registry expects to register more than 250 marriages from across New South Wales.”
Mr Curry said getting married on significant or lucky days was popular at the Registry. “Many couples feel that getting married on the 7th day of the 7th month of 2007 will add something special.”
He said last year the Registry conducted around 3,200 marriages over the 12 months and was continuing to grow in popularity.
Mr Curry said there were many reasons for this, including affordability. “Weddings at the Registry start from $270,” he said.
More information about the services offered at the Births Deaths and Marriages Office could be obtained by calling 1300 655 236 or visiting www.bdm.nsw.gov.au.
July 11, 2007
Flood of Lawyers In
Wake of Storms
Legal Aid NSW has held public information sessions offering free legal advice to people suffering property damage from the recent storms.
The forums took place in Newcastle, Maitland and Gosford.
A panel of representatives from Legal Aid NSW, the National
Insurance Hotline, LawAccess NSW, the Insurance Ombudsman Service, local community legal centres and the Law Society of NSW gave advice and offered opinions to help people pursue claims on damaged cars, homes and contents.
The sessions were chaired by local community leaders including the Lord Mayor of Newcastle and the Mayors of Gosford, Lake Macquarie and Maitland.
According to the Chief Executive of Legal Aid NSW, Bill Grant, it was important that people on the Central Coast, Newcastle and the Hunter who had suffered storm damage were fully aware of their rights under their insurance policies.
He said the forums would ensure people received expert advice and were in an informed position to properly pursue their insurance claims.
He said many of the storm victims were on low incomes,
Mr Grant said new information published by Legal Aid NSW would also help people claim on their insurance policies if they suffered property damage in the storms.
“An emergency fact sheet is now available online whilst a more comprehensive guide will be posted online after 1 July 2007,” Mr Grant said.
He said the guide: Turning the Tide, Storms, Floods, Insurance and You would assist people when dealing with their insurance companies claiming for damaged cars, homes and contents.
He said the guide was available online at www.legalaid.nsw.gov.au and hardcopy versions would be available from mid-July by visiting Legal Aid NSW offices; phoning Publications at Legal Aid NSW on 9219 5035 or by email: publications@legalaid.nsw.gov.au
some of the critical moments of the ABC's history.
July 11, 2007
Planners Plan
Planning Forum
The Department of Planning is to hold one-day forum in August to unveil the latest Government reforms and help shape the next generation of planning systems and outcomes.
Entitled 'New Ideas for Planning,' the forum will be held at the Australian Technology Park in Sydney on Tuesday 14 August and is being billed as “essential” for anyone interested in where planning should be heading in NSW.
Confirmed speakers at the event include:
* NSW Planning Minister, Frank Sartor
* Director-General of Planning, Sam Haddad
* Former Western Australian Premier, Dr Geoff Gallop
* Property Council Executive Director, Ken Morrison
* Local Government Association President, Genia McCaffery
* Qld Department of Planning Director, Catherine Anderson
Facilitator for the day will be Quentin Dempster from ABC Stateline.
Interactive sessions are to be held on development assessment, strategic planning, plan-making and e-planning with people attending workshops able to voice their new ideas to the expert speakers.
Registration costs $250 per person which includes meals, refreshments and forum material. Registrations close 8 August. More information from roselle.gowan@planning.nsw.gov.au
July 11, 2007
APEC Security
Goes to Water
The Commonwealth has equipped NSW Police with high performance jet skis and rigid hull inflatable boats in a bid to boost security for the upcoming APEC conference in Sydney.
“APEC brings together our regional partners and some of the world’s most important powers,” said Federal Attorney-General Philip Ruddock. “The recent attacks in the UK and the link to Australia emphasise the need to work closely with our Federal security agencies and NSW Police to ensure appropriate security arrangements.”
Mr Ruddock said the Australian Government had allocated $169.1 million over six years for APEC security, including $91.3 million for Federal security agencies and $77.8 million for NSW Police to meet the needs of APEC Leaders Week.
Mr Ruddock, Deputy Premier John Watkins and Police Minister David Campbell were guests at a marine display involving the jet skis and RHIBs.
“The jet skis and RHIBs will be used to patrol and enforce marine exclusion zones on Sydney Harbour during APEC Leaders Week,” Mr Ruddock said.
“The Australian Government has recognised the unique security requirements associated with Leaders Week and that’s why we have provided NSW Police with this extra support.”
He said NSW had identified capabilities that it considered necessary for providing security for Leaders Week.
“Items, such as the jet skis and RHIBs, will become a ‘legacy to the nation’ and will further enhance counter-terrorism measures around the country,” Mr Ruddock said.
July 11, 2007
Circular Tips Hat
To Contribution Cap
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has issued a Circular explaining the operation of superannuation ‘caps’ for NSW Public Servants following the introduction of the Commonwealth’s Simpler Super on 1 July.
The Circular explains that from that date limits were placed on the amount of employer contributions that could be accepted by superannuation funds, $50,000 for fund members under 50 years of age and $100,000 for members aged 50 and over.
The caps will be indexed and includes salary sacrificed amounts.
“Employer contributions over these amounts are taxed at the top marginal rate instead of the concessional 15 per cent rate,” the Circular says.
It says PS staff need to know the amount of employer contributions that count towards the cap, which is straightforward for accumulation fund members (9% plus salary sacrifice), but for defined-benefit schemes, State Super will be issuing personal information to members in mid-July.
“For an SES Officer the total amount of superannuation contributions deducted from the Total Remuneration Package will count towards the cap,” the Circular says.
It says members of the SSS, SASS and Police Super Scheme will “not have worry” about how much they salary sacrifice, but will need to know how much they can do so into another fund, such as FSS, since additional contributions to another fund might put them over the cap.
“The actual amount of employer contributions paid into (or owing to) the defined benefit schemes is not relevant to the cap,” it says.
“The amount deducted from the Total Remuneration Package and shown on payslips for SES Officers is also not relevant to the cap.”
The Circular advises Departments and Agencies to review the information from State Super as soon as it becomes available to enable fund members to calculate the amount of salary sacrifice contributions (if any) they can make to another scheme without exceeding the cap.
July 11, 2007
Weekend Detention
For Bail Magistrates
NSW Magistrates are working weekends to ensure defendants in custody get a fair deal on the question of bail.
Attorney General, John Hatzistergos said the new arrangements, which were introduced on 30 June, would ensure the State’s legal system was fairer.
He said Mmagistrates would preside over Parramatta Bail Court, where the majority of the State’s weekend bail applications were heard.
“This joint initiative between the Magistracy and the Attorney General's Department will ensure that wherever possible in NSW, defendants in custody will have access to an experienced member of the judiciary on the question of bail,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
He said until now, registrars and authorised Justices had been responsible for weekend bail matters.
He said the weekend Magistrate arrangement coincided with the expansion of the State's Audio Visual Link network.
“Across the State, more defendants in custody are seeking bail via video link,” Mr Hatzistergos said, “which helps improve the safety and efficiency of the Courts and saves taxpayers’ around $3 million a year.”
He said the number of defendants who have appeared in Court via video link had more than quadrupled in the past five years.
“In 2007 alone, the audio visual link network will be utilised on more than 26,000 occasions, with bail applications accounting for 80 per cent of all use.”
July 11, 2007
Petrol Inspectors
Won’t be Fueled
Inspectors from the Office of Fair Trading have begun visiting Sydney service stations checking that motorists are receiving what they pay for at the bowser.
Fair Trading Minister, Linda Burney put service station operators on notice saying they could expect a random call by inspectors checking the accuracy of their bowsers.
“Fuel is the second most significant weekly purchase after groceries for most families,” Ms Burney said, “And at this time of high petrol prices it is more important than ever that consumers get what they pay for.”
She said faulty or malfunctioning bowsers could misrepresent the amount of fuel being dispensed and lead to consumers being overcharged.
“Conditions that can cause a bowser to be inaccurate include damage by vehicles, incorrect operation, mechanical failure or poor maintenance.
“Where inaccurate bowsers are identified, operators are directed to close the pump until it is fixed.”
Testing of local service stations is part of an ongoing statewide campaign to ensure the accuracy of bowsers, with more than 10,000 bowsers tested across the State every year.
“Pleasingly, more than 96% are found to be accurate and in proper working order.”
Ms Burney said inspections such as these demonstrated Fair Trading’s commitment to ensuring consumer rights continued to be protected.
MP for Parramatta, Tanya Gadiel encouraged consumers who believed a service station bowser was inaccurate to report it to Fair Trading on 13 32 20.
July 11, 2007
Justice Awards ForThe Whole Truth
Nominations are being called for the 2007 Justice awards.
The Law and Justice Foundation is seeking nominations for the awards which recognise and honour people who have worked to improve access to justice for the socially and economically disadvantaged people in NSW.
The awards are presented in four categories:
The Justice Medal– sponsored by the Foundation and presented to someone who has demonstrated outstanding achievement in improving access to justice in a range of activities over an extended period, or in work over a shorter period which has had exceptional impact.
The Aboriginal Justice Award - sponsored by the Attorney General’s Department of NSW and presented to an Aboriginal person or group demonstrating outstanding commitment to improving access to justice for Aboriginal people in NSW.
The Law and Justice Volunteer Award - sponsored by the Bar Association of NSW and presented to a person or group demonstrating, in a voluntary capacity, outstanding commitment to improving access to justice in NSW.
The Pro Bono Partnership Award– sponsored by the National Pro Bono Resource Centre and presented to a partnership comprising a private law firm, community organisation and/or community legal centre in NSW which had developed an outstanding pro bono legal relationship.
Nominations, which may be made by any member of the public, can be submitted online at www.lawfoundation.net.au/justice_awards and close Monday 13 August.
Winners will be announced at the Justice Awards presentation dinner on 31 October 2007.
July 11, 2007
Private Paper A
Public Issue
The NSW Law Reform Commission has released a consultation paper on the lengths people should be able to go to protect their privacy.
The Commission poses the question: should people be able to take legal action in a Court or Ttribunal if their privacy is invaded?
The Chair of the Commission, James Wood said personal privacy was recognised as a human right, and was protected by a number of international treaties.
“However, most Australians are surprised to learn that we enjoy very limited legal protection against invasions of personal privacy,” he said.
“This puts Australia out of step with the United Kingdom, Canada, New Zealand and most European nations, which have legally enforceable privacy protections.”
He said the law did little to stop such issues as someone’s personal letters being published for strangers to read or neighbours focusing their cameras in another’s backyard.
Commissioner Wood said that while the Commission had made no firm decision on the need for, or the form of, strengthened privacy laws, it would favour it based on statute at this time.
“At this stage of our review, the Commission has not determined whether there should be a general action for invasion of privacy,” Commissioner Wood said.
“That decision can only be made after we have consulted with the community on the need for further privacy protection.”
The Consultation paper can be accessed at www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au and submissions would be received until by 15 September 2007.
July 11, 2007
Minister Puts Spin
On Two-Up Rules
Rules of the noble Australian game of Two-Up have been enshrined in officialdom with the Minister for Gaming, Graham West, setting them out and approving them in the current Government Gazette.
Under the Two-Up Act 18, Mr West has made the game of Two-Up the sole right of the Broken Hill City Council and Broken Hill Musicians Club, permitting the game to be played from the date of gazettal.
Among the gazetted rules for Two-Up, there are to be two sets of seven pennies held by the ringkeeper, although only two pennies are used at the one time.
The tails of the pennies are to be marked with a white cross and the ringkeeper will have sole discretion to change them at any time. The pennies must be changed after three pairs of heads in a row are thrown.
The pennies must be spun at least two metres above the head of the spinner without hitting the ceiling, and must land within the ring. If an invalid spin is called, the ringkeeper must try to retrieve the pennies before they come to rest.
All present must be over 18 and the Broken Hill Council can levy a tax on all bets as long as it doesn’t exceed 10 per cent.
All bets must be in cash or approved tokens. Cheques are not permitted.
July 11, 2007
Historic Hospital
Back From Dead
An historic hospital at North Head has been reconstructed a century after it was built and five years after it was destroyed by fire.
The Quarantine Station’s 1883 hospital has emerged from the ashes in what the National Parks and Wildlife Service’s Tony Fleming claimed could be the biggest project of its kind ever undertaken in Australia.
"The result looks fantastic and can be seen from the Harbour every day by thousands of ferry passengers," Dr Fleming said.
"Almost every detail of the buildings has been reconstructed as faithfully as possible, right down to making sure the timber was milled to the same width, and the chimney was rebuilt block by block with salvaged sandstone."
He said it had taken an NPWS team months to research and source the required building material and 50 stonemasons, carpenters and tradesmen almost a year to finish.
"One of the most exciting parts of the reconstruction is the training opportunities it provided to carpentry apprentices to learn joinery skills that are in danger of being lost in the 21st century."
He said the timber Hospital building and a nearby accommodation building were destroyed in separate fires in 2002 and 2001.
Original drawings and photographs were used to reconstruct the buildings which was supervised by Gledhill Constructions, who had worked on some of Sydney's best known historic buildings including the Governors Farm Dairy Buildings in Parramatta Park which were thought to be among the oldest buildings in Australia.
"Last year the NSW Government signed an historic lease to revitalise the site and bring people back to Quarantine Station," Dr Fleming said.
"The hospital building where sick immigrants from around the world were treated on arrival is absolutely integral to the story of the Quarantine Station, and will be used by the lessee for tours and functions."
He said the former accommodation building housed third class passengers but its reconstruction incorporated modern building codes so that it can be used for accommodation again.
July 11, 2007
Aboriginal Team Has
Home Care Win
A specialist Aboriginal Access and Assessment team has been established to improve the delivery of Home Care services to NSW’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
Minister for Disability Services, Kristina Keneally announced the new team, saying was the latest step in the ongoing improvement of support for the frail aged and young people with disabilities in Indigenous communities.
Speaking at the Yaama Dhinawan function centre in Darlington to celebrate 50 years of NAIDOC and 25 years of Aboriginal Home Care, Ms Keneally said the new team would comprise a leader and three full-time officers covering Sydney and Newcastle, with further officers operating from Nowra, Tamworth, Dubbo, Orange, Condobolin and Wagga Wagga.
“This means assessment for Aboriginal people can be undertaken face-to-face in their own homes by trained Aboriginal assessors,” Ms Keneally said.
“Assessment will be culturally appropriate, transparent to the community, easy to access, appropriately resourced and will provide a consistent application of eligibility criteria.
She said the new assessment process would also provide improved and more streamlined services.
Ms Keneally said that, in keeping with the 2007 NAIDOC theme of Looking Forward, Looking Blak, the Government was working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders to strengthen the services it provided.
“Aboriginal Home Care is the largest and longest operating service provider of Home and Community Care services to Aboriginal people in NSW, providing domestic assistance, respite, personal care and other flexible services,” Ms Keneally said.
“Aboriginal service coordinators began operating from mainstream Home Care branches in 1979 and the first dedicated Aboriginal Home Care outlet was piloted in 1982.”
She said Aboriginal Home Care provided flexible and culturally responsive services and today had eight branches with 23 outlets across the State and employed more than 300 Aboriginal staff.
“In any one month, more than 1,400 people are visited in their homes by an Aboriginal Home Care worker.”
July 4, 2007
Fired Up Premier Has
PS In Firing Line
The Premier, Morris Iemma, has warned the NSW Public Service to be ready for a busy four years of big, bold decision making, more change, more long term planning and less short-term reacting.
He said the PS should prepare itself for a ‘revolution’ in customer service that would put NSW citizens first and deliver big decisions fast and effectively.
Marking 100 days in office since the 24 March election, Mr Iemma told the NSW arm of the Institute of Public Administration Australia that the Government had already made 160 decisions and was gearing up to make many more.
“If I could leave this public sector audience with one message today, it is to be prepared,” Mr Iemma said.
“Be prepared for more hard decisions.
“Be prepared to change what you do and how you do it.”
“And be prepared – above all – to put the customer, the citizen, first.”
He said it wouldn’t be fast and it wouldn’t be easy: “Cultural change never is.”
But he said he had a mandate to get the public services right
Mr Iemma said the recent crisis of flooding in the Hunter and Central Coast had shown the Government could mount an effective response quickly.
“Our declaration of a natural disaster, the relief effort and the establishment of one stop shops for community assistance was an effective response,” he said, “Particularly when combined with the outstanding efforts of our emergency service personnel and those from the volunteer sector.”
He said when it came to major policy decisions, the Government would be just as decisive.
“Deliberation will fuel decisiveness,” he said, “And so when we do make decisions – they will be bold.”
“And we need a customer service revolution in the culture of our public sector to deliver those decisions.”
He addressed the Government’s wages policy by describing it as “future oriented” while admitting it had caused concern.
“I want to stress it isn’t just about fiscal prudence. In fact, expenditure restraint is very much a second order priority.”
He said the policy was intended primarily to drive cultural change to improve service delivery.
“It’s about creating the public sector of the future – more flexible, mobile, high performing, and outcome-driven.”
“As we face recruitment challenges in a high growth economy, as the baby boomer generation ages and as we tackle the targets of the State Plan, the public sector will need to adapt accordingly.”
“Our work practices will need to be more flexible.
“We’ll need greater employee mobility, better attraction and retention policies and smarter job design and re-design.”
He said the Government had completed 100 days in office and had another 1300 ahead.
July 4, 2007
PSA Puts Heat On
2.5% Wage Freeze
The Public Service Association of NSW has labeled as “not acceptable” and “simply unrealistic” a wage freeze on Public Servants of 2.5 per cent.
Treasurer, Michael Costa announced the limit in the NSW Budget, but it would not apply to the four percent pay rise due under the Public Sector Salaries Award which waass expected to come through this month.
General Secretary of the PSA, John Cahill said the 2.5 per cent was the Government’s starting point for negotiations and he expected a better outcome when a new award was thrashed out before June 2008.
“Last time we negotiated, the Government's starting point was 3 per cent per year - we got 4 percent per year for four years,” Mr Cahaill said.
“Something similar will happen in the next round of negotiations.”
The PSA said the 2.5 per cent was below the inflation rate, which made it unacceptable and unrealistic.
"The 2.5% cap on pay increases is a ‘Treasury wish’,” MR Cahill said.
“It's an ambit claim by the employer. No one is going to settle for 2.5 per cent.”
He said no-one took any notice of the Government’s wage policy of 3 per cent last time and no one will take notice of the 2.5 per cent this time.
He said if the PSA had to run the 2008 case in the NSW Industrial Relations Commission it would be able to show increases in productivity across the public sector which would more than justify the wage claim.
“We were well into an arbitrated case four years ago, before a negotiated settlement was reached,” he said.
In the meantime the Department of Premier and Cabinet has issued a Circular confirming that the fourth and final four per cent payrise under the 2005 agreement would be paid this month.
“The term of the Award is 12 months, expiring on 30 June 2008,” Circular C2007-28 says.
July 4, 2007
Contracts Shrinking
PS Performance
Performance pay and employment contracts for senior Public Servants are affecting their advice to Government and performance pay at least, should be scrapped, according to former Commonwealth Departmental Secretary and Public Service Commisioner, Andrew Podger.
Writing in the journal of the Institiute of Public Administration Australia – of which Mr Podger is President – the former Federal Secretary of Health says the move to contract employment for Department Heads had affected their behaviour and impacted on the advice they offered Government.
He said the past 25 years had seen a shift towards Public Service ‘responsiveness’ to elected Governments and away from the apolitical focus on long term public interest that had traditionally been the role of the bureaucracy.
He said the reason for the change was that Governments now appointed Department Heads on short-term contracts and then paid performance pay based on their perceived ‘responsiveness.’
“Balancing the values of responsiveness and apolitical professionalism is a perennial issue in public administration,” Mr Podger said. “There is no golden era when the balance was evidently right.”
He said however that the shift in the past 25 years “has been substantial” with “steadily increasing political oversight.”
He said five-year contracts for senior management were initially introduced by the Hawke Labor Government with the expectation that at the end of their terms, appointees would continue as secretaries but be rotated to other Departments.
This, he said, was to move secretaries to fresh challenges and rejuvenate and cross-fertilise the ‘secretary pool.’
In recent years, he said, the move had been toward three-year contracts which were seen as “not consistent with either good management practice or a professional apolitical Public Service.”
Mr Podger called for the return to fixed-term, five year contracts.
“The risk of excessive responsiveness, or ‘politicisation’ does need to be addressed, primarily through a return to five-year contracts.”
He also called for the abolition of performance pay for Heads of Departments, saying it reinforced a principle of Ministerial control of the Public Service.
“There are legitimate concerns about providing performance pay to Secretaries,” he said.
He said assessments of performance pay at that level were made by the Prime Minister and “inevitably focus primarily on responsiveness to the Government … at the expense of possibly more important factors such as building organisational capacity and developing and implementing reforms of longer term public interest.”
“My advice was, and remains, that performance pay for Secretaries should be abolished.”
Mr Podger said the issues he raised were common across all Departments and all States and Territory Governments.
“All secretaries are affected and they are being dishonest or fooling themselves if they deny it,” he said.
Mr Podger’s article can be read in the Australian Journal of Public Administration.
July 4, 2007
Police Lock In
Tough Drugs Stance
The NSW Police Force has introduced a tough new Drug and Alcohol Policy which extends the scope of its existing programs and reinforces community expectations of a drug-free Police Force.
Police Commissioner Ken Moroney said the new moves stem fro the 2005 Operation Abelia conducted by the Police Integrity Committee which recommended strengthening NSW Police's capacity to minimise illegal drug use by officers.
Commissioner Moroney said contravention of the policy placed the safety of employees and the community at risk and compromised the integrity, reputation and effectiveness of the NSW Police Force.
“I reiterate my commitment to a Police Force free of illegal drug use,” Commissioner Moroney said. “Illegal drug use or supply by a police officer is not acceptable at any time, whether on duty or off duty.”
He said any officer found to be using illegal drugs would be dealt with according to the law.
He said since 2001 there had been an amnesty in place allowing NSW Police Officers to come forward for help if they had a substance abuse problem
“Drug abuse and other substance abuse should not be tolerated in the NSW Police Force,” Commissioner Moroney said.
“Daily, police deal with high stress situations and anything that may impair judgement, or hinder the ability to make appropriate and timely decisions, is potentially a danger to police and community alike.”
He said the amnesty would run out on 1 October 2007, with officers applying for protection prior to then continuing to have the provisions apply for 12 months.
July 4, 2007
Floods Wash Down
The True Relievers
Queensland Centrelink staff who coordinated the Cyclone Larry recovery effort have traveled over their State line to provide emergency assistance to residents in the Hunter Valley hit by flooding and severe storms.
A team from throughout Central and Northern Queensland flew south to help with the NSW recovery efforts and process the thousands of claims for assistance that flowed in.
“The floods have devastated many communities through the Hunter Valley and Central Coast and there’s a strong need for the experience gained from Cyclone Larry on the ground,” said Cairns-based team member Lyn Faulkner.
“Perhaps more importantly, it’s a chance for us to give back to a community which was one of many that helped so generously during our hour of need - many Centrelink staff from the Hunter Valley volunteered last year to travel to the Far North in the wake of Cyclone Larry.”
Ms Faulkner said while local staff were doing a fantastic job, the severity of the disaster meant Centrelink had to bring in staff from around the country.
“As with Cyclone Larry, many local Centrelink staff have personally suffered damage to their property but they’re still turning up for work to help others.”
Centrelink and other Government and community agencies were door-knocking residents to check on their wellbeing and offering financial and emotional support.
She said over $4 million in assistance had been distributed to more than 4000 people affected by the floods.
Ms Faulkner said the Central and Northern Queensland Centrelink team was working at several locations around the Hunter Valley.
“From what we experienced in Innisfail last year, the team sent down has a strong understanding of what people are going through and their need for simple, fast, practical support,” Ms Faulkner said.
“It’ll be a bumpy road for a while, but like Innisfail, we’re confident the Hunter Valley community will soon be well on its way to recovery.”
July 4, 2007
Stars Come Out At
ABC Open Day
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation opened its doors at Ultimo to 150,000 visitors on 1 July, marking 75 years to the day when Prime Minister Joseph Lyons proclaimed the ABC was born.
Roads around the ABC headquarters were closed to create an ABC precinct for the day, with concerts, open studios, live broadcasting, exhibitions and nostalgia.
ABC presenters were on hand to welcome the crowds including Andrew Denton, Kerry O'Brien, James O'Loghlin, The Chaser boys, Geraldine Doogue, Adam Spencer and Peter Berner.
Former stars included Aunty Jack's Grahame Bond and Rory O'Donoghue, and newsreader James Dibble.
ABC Managing Director, Mark Scott said organisers we overwhelmed by the response.
“What makes the ABC unique,” Mr Scott said, “Is it belongs to the Australian people.”
“This open day is a chance for people to celebrate the history of the ABC and to experience their ABC in a unique way."
Other features of the day included a live broadcast of Australia All Over from 5.30am to 10am, an ABC Science tent that featured presentations by Dr. Karl Kruszelnicki; Paul Willis from Catalyst; Bernie Hobbs from The New Inventors and Natasha Mitchell, presenter of Radio National's All In The Mind.
The ABC Exhibition Trailer was also in operation.
A special 75th anniversary website, abc.net.au/75years, has also been created to give audiences a snapshot of the ABC's contribution to Australian life during the past 75 years, with an interactive timeline, featuring video footage, stills and audio clips of
July 4, 2007
Premier Not Kidding
Over Youth Inputs
The Premier, Morris Iemma, has issued a Ministerial Memorandum supporting Best Practice Principles for involving young people in the development of Government policy.
Mr Iemma said the Principles also extended to the implementation of the State Plan and the development of programs and services that impacted on young people’s lives.
The Memorandum directs that all Ministers, Chief Executives and Agencies observe the Principles and draws their attention to the main elements:
* recognise young people’s rights to participate in developing Government policy, programs and services that impact upon them;
* promote respect by listening to young people’s views and taking them seriously;
* build and maintain strong relationships with the young people the Government consults with;
* provide young people with appropriate and timely information on Government processes;
* build on young people’s knowledge and skills;
* recognise young people’s different situations and backgrounds, particularly those:
from Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Island backgrounds; from culturally diverse backgrounds with disabilities; in out-of-home care; from vulnerable or marginalised groups.
* organise participation processes that take into account the needs of young people, such as training and transport;
* encourage young people to provide feedback on the effectiveness of participation processes.
The Memorandum says the Best Practice Principles would assist Agencies achieve the NSW State Plan Goals as the Plan required Agencies to directly engage with the community.
It says this includes engaging with young people.
More information about theYouth Action Plan, including a copy of the Plan, was available at www.youth.nsw.gov.au
“I ask all Ministers to bring these principles to the attention of all Agencies within (their) administration,” Mr Iemma said.
July 4, 2007
Fire Brigade Trains
Hottest Officers
Twenty NSW Fire fighters have been promoted to the rank of Station Officer following their graduation from a nine-week development program.
Commissioner Greg Mullins of the NSW Fire was on hand to congratulate the new graduates, saying they would now be expected to manage fire stations and teams of firefighters, provide leadership and command in all types of emergencies as well as fulfilling specialised management roles.
“Being a Station Officer in the NSWFB is a huge responsibility,” Commissioner Mullins said.
“The course is very demanding and they have met every challenge presented to them.”
He said each graduating Station Officer had received training in administration, human resource management and specialist skills to lead emergency operations including rescues, chemical spills, bush and building fires and even dealing with the aftermath of a terrorist attack.
He said the officers had a minimum of nine years’ extensive experience on the front line at fire stations across NSW.
“The training they have received will enable them to lead their colleagues and protect the community in any emergency situation.”
They will take up their positions at the following fire stations and sections of the NSWFB shortly:
Quentin Johnson - Parramatta
Graeme Tull - Crows Nest
Ian Jameson - The Rocks
Dean Wellfare - Smithfield
James Barnes - Parramatta
Harry Fisher - Newtown
Nicholas Short - Driver Training
Thomas Freedom - Huntingwood
Gaven Muller - Castle Hill
Glen Whitehead - Broken Hill
Martin Annan - Bankstown
Jeremy Fewtrell - City of Sydney
John Phillipp - Cabramatta
Grant Kenny - Crows Nest
Stephen Franks - Burwood
Edward Melinz - Chester Hill
Craig Hill - Woollahra
Brett Butler - Crows Nest
Phillip Eberle - Broken Hill
Kevin O'Reilly - Huntingwood
July 4, 2007
Police Get Caught
In Burglary Audit
An audit of police effectiveness in responding to, investigating and preventing household burglaries has concluded that more could be done.
The audit, by the Auditor-General, Peter Achterstraat, found that police had done well to maintain a downward trend in household burglaries since 2001, but a number of coinciding factors may also have played a part.
“In the past five years household burglaries fell by over 30 per cent,” the Auditor-General said.
“Recorded rates of burglary are now lower than they were 10 years ago.”
He said however that other factors which could also have influenced the result included a rise in the rate and length of imprisonment; the heroin drought of 2001; increases in the number of heroin users entering treatment; low levels of unemployment, and increases in average weekly earnings of young males.
“Amongst these factors, it is difficult to judge the extent of the impact police have had on this result,” the Auditor said.
He said despite the positive trends downwards, over 90 per cent of break and enters remained unsolved.
“We recognise that solving these crimes is a difficult task.”
The Auditor also found that police relied heavily on forensic evidence to solve the crimes but “there is no guarantee that even where evidence is available at the scene, that a forensic officer will be available to collect it.”
“Ob average, forensic officers attended three out of five burglaries in 2005-06.”’
The Auditor-General made three recommendations following his audit:
* That police collect and analyses data on household crimes separately from commercial break and enters;
* That they improve investigation and detection capability; and
* They better targets prevention strategies and monitors
July 4, 2007
Sporting Network
On the Ball
The Coffs Harbour Swans Australian Football Club has been recognised by the Australian Sports Commission as the 9000th member of its Club Development Network program to benefit from involvement.
The program provides clubs with free online resources to improve management and to deliver better club services to members.
Despite winning the AFL North Coast grand final last year, the Coffs Harbour Swans have struggled to retain and attract members and players, an issue faced by many regional and rural sporting clubs.
Director of the Australian Sports Commission’s National Sports Programs, Greg Nance said he was pleased the Coffs Harbour club was set to benefit from the program.
“Sporting clubs hold a unique position in many regional and rural Australia communities,” Mr Nance said.
“They are often the lifeblood and foundation of their regions. Coffs Harbour is no different.”
President of the Swans, Steve Shelley welcomed the assistance of the ASC’s Network and hoped it would have a beneficial impact on the club and its members.
“We will use the strategies and resources of the Club Development Network to attract new members, but also to provide better services and resources to retain our loyal existing members and continue to build a strong and vibrant club,” Mr Shelley said. The Club Development Network’s free web-based program supports the development and management capacity of sporting clubs.
July 4, 2007
Students Cash In On
Consumer Course
Students from Canterbury Boys High School have been taught an important lesson in becoming smart consumers and it couldn’t have come from a more informed source.
Fair Trading Minister, Linda Burney joined the students to share the Money Stuff! program, giving the young people important information about contracts, credit deals, mobile phones and tenancy issues.
Ms Burney said today’s young people were facing consumer issues at a much earlier age than their parents and Fair Trading had devoted considerable effort to ensuing young people were savvy consumers.
“The Money Stuff! program, which was developed by the Office of Fair Trading, helps students avoid consumer problems by providing them with important information,” Ms Burney said.
“From an early age kids are pressured like never before to buy goods and services so it is important they understand what they are getting into.”
She said Money Stuff! comprised an interactive website with challenges based on real-life situations, as well as teacher’s guides which met the current curriculum allowing it to be brought into the classroom
Ms Burney said among the youth issues dealt with by Money Stuff! Were”
* buying a car
* selecting a mobile phone
* moving into rental accommodation
* getting a job.
She said Money Stuff! was just one part of Fair Trading’s ongoing campaign to educate youth on consumer issues.
“During the next 12 months, as well as 25 Money Stuff! seminars, Fair Trading will run 40 Revved Up seminars on the tricks and traps of buying your first car.”
She said the Money Stuff! website was at www.moneystuff.net.au, where general consumer rights and fair trading information was also available.
July 4, 2007
DPI Plant Scientist
Transplanted
The 42-year career of respected plant pathologist, Dr Gordon Murray, has come to an end with the highly regarded scientist retiring from the Department of Primary Industries. Dr Murray spent 31 of those years at the Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute.
Dr Murray’s career was focused on the health of field crops, loss assessment, and management and his work had a great beneficial impact on the farming communities in southern and central NSW.
Dr Murray started with DPI as a trainee in 1964 and took his first position as a pathologist at Rydalmere in 1969.
He won an Australian Wool Corporation Scholarship for post graduate studies at the University of Wisconsin from 1971 to 1975, and was awarded a PhD in 1975.
He transferred to Wagga Wagga in 1976 as a Field Crop Pathologist where his work concentrated on research into field crop diseases
Over the years Dr Murray became a world authority on Karnal bunt, a potential threat to the Australian grain industry and developed a contingency plan for the threat with DPI colleagues Drs John Brennan and Mui-Keng Tan and Western Australian colleague Dominie Wright.
Most recently, he has been completing the contingency plan for dwarf bunt of wheat with Dominie Wright.
Director of the Wagga Wagga Agricultural Institute, Dr Alison Bowman congratulated Dr Murray on his retirement, saying he was an exceptionally practical hands-on scientist and pathologist.
“It is very rare to find such a high profile national and international researcher who is just as comfortable among professors and doctors as he is among farmers, extension agronomists and the public”, Dr Bowman said.
“He operates equally effectively in the field as in the laboratory.”
Dr Murray is retiring to live near Wagga Wagga and is expected to maintain a connection with DPI through the E H Graham Centre.
July 4, 2007
Street Painting a
Work of Art
Australia’s largest heritage mural has been unveiled at The Rocks in Sydney.
Painted by an artist who had worked for the Sultan of Brunei, the black and white mural was commissioned by the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority to provide a striking entrance to the heritage precinct.
Chief Executive of the Authority, Dr Rob Lang said the painter, Pierre Mol, had produced an artwork that faithfully represented an original photograph taken in 1901 in Brown Bear Lane, which once led from George Street to Cumberland Street.
“This will be another reminder of the rich history of The Rocks and the importance of preserving our history in the heart of modern Sydney,” Dr Lang said.
“The mural will bring Sydney’s early settlement back to life for visitors and locals and marks the site of the old Brown Bear laneway.
He said Brown Bear Lane existed from the earliest days of the colony until the 1950s, when it was demolished to make way for the City Circle railway and Cahill Expressway.
“It derived its name from one of Sydney’s early pubs, known for many years as The Brown Bear, which operated on the street from 1804 until 1901.
“Around 1901, many of the area's old buildings were demolished, including The Brown Bear.”
Dr Lang said the mural was one of a series of installations around The Rocks, including storyboards and pavement inlays, which would help visitors understand the people, places and events of the past.
Artist, Pierre Mol, holds a PhD of Art History and Theory and a Post-Graduate Diploma in Archaeology.
The mural and other works are part of the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority’s ‘Telling The Rocks Stories’ interpretation strategy, which encourages projects that illuminate the unique history of The Rocks.
The mural has been hand-painted on the southern side of the Duty Free stores on George Street.
July 4, 2007
Opera House In Tune
With Heritage List
The World Heritage Committee has listed the Sydney Opera House on the UNESCO World Heritage List, recognising it one of the world’s treasures.
Announcing the listing, Planning Minister Frank Sartor and Commonwealth Environment Minister Malcolm said the Opera House now ranked with other world heritage treasures as the Taj Mahal, the Pyramids of Egypt, Great Wall of China and the Great Barrier Reef.
World Heritage listing is not conferred lightly,” Mr Turnbull said. “Each place on this list has been judged as an outstanding example of its type.”
“The Sydney Opera House was a daring and visionary experiment that has had an enduring influence on 20th century architecture and beyond.”
Mr Sartor praised the inspiration of Opera House architect Jørn Utzon saying the genius of his design demanded engineering feats and new technology
“It is a constant reminder of what can be achieved when one man’s brilliance is recognised and allowed to flourish,” Mr Sartor said.
“His legacy is a place that fascinates, excites and attracts people from around the globe.”
He said it had been 50 years since Mr Utzon won the Opera House design competition and nine years since the people of NSW expressed their gratitude by granting him the Keys to the City of Sydney.
Mr Sartor said Opera House was a collaborative achievement between architects, designers, engineers, manufacturers and the construction industry.
“British engineers Ove Arup & Partners, and Australian architects Hall, Todd
and Littlemore all played a role in construction of the building.”
The announcement came as Australia celebrated 60 years’ membership of UNESCO, one of the first nations to join in 1947.
July 4, 2007
Managers Play
Seniors Card
Managers of the Government-run NSW Seniors Card are urging businesses to sign up and reach the fastest-growing consumer segment in the Australia economy.
Manager of the NSW Seniors Card, Ian Henderson said the Seniors Card was free and provided members with access to transport concessions and business discounts.
“We are experiencing growth of more than 4,500 new members a month, and there are now more than 1.1 million members in NSW,” Mr Henderson said.
“Ninety per cent of seniors who are eligible to apply are members.
He said the large and growing membership made it a very attractive opportunity for businesses who wanted to target the seniors market.”
He said businesses could promte their goods and services in one or more of five regional directories which were posted directly to each Seniors Card member household in November.
“No other targeted advertising medium goes directly to as many seniors,” Mr Henderson said.
He said one company, Blue Ribbon Termite and Pest Management, had enjoyed a positive response from advertising in previous Discount Directory.
“It is free to register as a business partner and you can do it online at www.seniorscard.net.au.
“Businesses benefit through free website listings, promotions, point of sale material, and the opportunity to advertise in the annual NSW Seniors Card Discount Directory.”
Mr Henderson said more information was available from the website, by phoning 1300 364 758 or emailing business@seniorscard.nsw.gov.au
He said advertising bookings closed 31 July 2007.
July 4, 2007
Grave Concern Over
Unearthed Remains
The Department of Environment and Climate Change has confirmed that the remains of six or more Aboriginal people have been found in a national park on the Far South Coast.
It is believed to be one of the most significant burial sites ever found in the area.
Aboriginal Heritage Conservation Officer with DECC, Graham Moore said a team of the Department’s archaeologists had been on site supervising the operation for more than a week
"The general view of the team involved is that this is a highly a significant find,” Mr Moore said.
“It may predate the arrival of Europeans to the area.”
,He said the Department would not be releasing any further details of the find, due to the need to be respectful of local Aboriginal sensitivities
"I need to stress that it is also a very significant site in terms of what it means for the local Aboriginal community.”
He said Aboriginal Elders and the Bega Local Aboriginal Land Council had fully sanctioned the operation and were keen to see an assessment completed which could reveal valuable historical information about their ancestors in the area.
"At this stage we plan to complete the operation with a view to reburying the remains in the area at a later date under the Repatriation Program managed by the Culture and Heritage Division of the DECC,” Mr Moore said.
"Because this is a burial site it is very important that people keep away from the immediate area unless they have specific permission from the National Parks and Wildlife Serve and Aboriginal community leaders."
He warned of severe penalties for knowingly disturbing a burial site.
