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SearchArchives for February 2010
24 February, 2010
Police pulled over
by DNA auditor
The Auditor-General has called for a review of the way NSW Police manage DNA and fingerprint analysis after an audit found lengthy delays.
In his report, Managing Forensic Analysis Fingerprints and DNA, the Auditor-General, Peter Achterstraat said there was a backlog of around 6,400 cases waiting for DNA analysis as of November last year, with the figure expected to increase to almost 7,400 cases by mid 2010.
“It will take more than a year to process this backlog with current resources even if no more cases are received,” Mr Achterstraat said.
“The problem with delayed analysis is that while police wait for results, crimes remain unsolved and criminals remain at large.
He said police around the world were spending more time and money on the latest in forensic technologies because of the influence of television dramas such as CS.
“The public now expect that every criminal case will rely on forensic evidence to catch an offender,” Mr Achterstraat said.
He said his audit examined police strategies for managing demand for DNA and fingerprint analysis and what had been done to increase laboratory capacity to cope.
He said the demand for DNA analysis had increased by almost 40 per cent over the past five years but that the funding for DNA analysis hadn’t kept pace.
“Police has tried a number of ways to address these delays but with mixed success,” the Auditor said.
He said while the analysis of one DNA item for less serious property crimes was generally the limit, an average of nearly three DNA items per case were being submitted.
Mr Achterstraat said temporary funding to increase capacity had met with limited success and that while police had contracted the private sector to analyse around 5,500 DNA items a year since January 2008, it was a costly way to provide relief.
“We found that while Police effectively prioritise fingerprint evidence, it could better manage the screening and analysis of both fingerprint and DNA evidence to reduce delays,” he said.
The Auditor made three recommendations to resolve the problem.
“Firstly, we need a user pays agreement for all DNA analysis,” he said.
“Secondly, Police must manage demand by determining the best evidence in a case and analysing that first.
“Thirdly, the greatest impact on reducing property crimes will be analysing DNA evidence for the most recent cases first, by moving them to the front of the queue.
“This will give police a better chance of catching criminals and preventing further crimes.”
Mr Achterstraat also recommended analysis requests be removed from the queue when they were no longer needed, such as where the offender had been convicted.
He highlighted recent successes in Queensland and Victoria in overcoming backlogs in DNA analysis, saying those States had increased resourcing and implemented different management approaches.
Mr Achterstraat said demand for fingerprint analysis was steady and being met with current resources, but that there were some delays for regional areas.
The full audit report could be accessed at www.audit.nsw.gov.au
24 February, 2010
PS dusts off call
for Indigenous jobs
A new plan to address Indigenous recruitment in the NSW Public Service has been set out in a Circular issued by the Department of Premier and Cabinet.
Circular C2010-04 Making It Our Business: The NSW Aboriginal Employment Action Plan 2009-2012, highlights the new action plan and reminds Agencies they have to report on their progress on Aboriginal employment in their annual reports.
Director General of DPC, Brendan O’Reilly, who signed off on the Circular, said the action plan, laid out the Government’s initiative for strengthening Indigenous employment in the NSW Public Service.
“The plan addresses issues relating to the recruitment, retention and career development of Aboriginal people,” Mr O’Reilly said.
“The action plan for 2009-2012 sets specific targets, time frames and accountabilities.
“Agencies are requested to report on their progress in the Equal Employment Opportunity section of their annual reports.”
Mr O’Reilly said the plan focused on three key strategies:
- Improving the recruitment experience for Indigenous applicants;
- Keeping Aboriginal employees in the PS; and
- Helping Indigenous employees build their Public Service careers.
He said the action plan was launched in December 2009 and addresses issues identified by participants in consultations that were undertaken in February and March 2009.
Mr O’Reilly said the Circular superseded Circular C2006-36 “Making It Our Business” Improving Aboriginal Employment in the NSW Public Sector.
The plan and new Circular were available from www.dpc.nsw.gov.au
24 February, 2010
Transport vision
to make inroads
A new 25-year vision for land use planning and transport infrastructure in the Sydney metropolitan area has been released by the Premier, Kristina Keneally.
Entitled the Metropolitan Transport Plan: Connecting the City of Cities, the comprehensive plan includes measures to cut travel times for western Sydney residents, develop a North West rail link, expand light rail, build more commuter car parks, upgrade ferries and air condition buses and trains.
Ms Keneally said that over 10 years, the plan would comprise of $50.2 billion in spending which was backed up by a 10-year funding guarantee consistent with maintaining the State’s AAA credit rating.
In a specially convened Cabinet meeting, Ms Keneally announced work would stop on the $5 billion Stage 1 CBD Metro, with tenderers reimbursed for reasonable costs incurred and processes put in place to assist property owners and tenants who had run up costs relating to property acquisition.
“We’ve listened to the community and made a tough decision,” she said.
“This is about re-allocating spending to where it is needed.”
Ms Keneally said that under the new plan, $4.5 billion would be allocated to the Western Express CityRail Service, a separate rail track, which would aim to cut travel times from western Sydney to the city.
She said the service aimed to achieve faster and more frequent services with a goal of up to 50 per cent more services and 17 per cent more passengers on the CityRail network on an average weekday.
The new service will be routed through a five kilometre priority tunnel –City Relief Line – which will be built from 2015 in the city to separate western services from inner-city trains and provide shorter journey times.
Ms Keneally said eight new platforms would be built to increase capacity and relieve congestion at Redfern, Central, Town Hall and Wynyard, and new express train services would be introduced for the Blue Mountains, Richmond, Penrith, Blacktown and Parramatta.
She said the Metropolitan Transport Plan also included a $500 million expansion of the current light rail system which would include up to 20 new stations and almost 10 kilometres of new track.
Ms Keneally said work on the $6.7 billion North West rail link from Epping to Rouse Hill would begin in 2017, with six stations at Franklin Road, Castle Hill, Hills Centre, Norwest, Burns Road and Rouse Hill.
Bus services will benefit from the introduction of Strategic Bus Corridors in Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong and the Central Coast.
Submissions and comments could be lodged at www.shapeyourstate.nsw.gov.au
24 February, 2010
Jobs freeze
stays on ice
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has released a Circular outlining changes to the way Departments are to seek approval for exemptions to the current staffing freeze.
Director General of DPC, Brendan O’Reilly said exemptions to the freeze can now be granted by the relevant Director General of one of the State’s 13 super Departments.
Previously, exemptions were decided in very limited circumstances by a special Committee based on a sound business case and the support of the Agency Chief Executive.
Mr O’Reilly said exemption requests and decisions must now be made by completing a Job Assessment Criteria form, which was available from the DPC website.
He said all documentation must also be retained for audit purposes and that a Director General must be “satisfied that the position is not subject to structural change or corporate services reform” in order to approve it.
He said the freeze still applied to filling all non-frontline jobs; hiring of contractors and consultants; outside appointments to temporary vacancies; and executive search activities.
“Restrictions continue to apply to advertising jobs in the Greater Metropolitan Sydney area, other capital cities or national press,” he said.
“All requests to advertise in metropolitan or national press (for both frontline and non-frontline positions) must be referred to the Department of Premier and Cabinet for approval.”
Mr O’Reilly said the freeze continued to apply to all PS Agencies other than State-owned corporations.
The new Circular, C2010-05 Staffing Freeze, supersedes the former Premier’s Memorandum M2009-15 Staffing Freeze.
The Circular and Job Assessment Criteria Form were available from www.dpc.nsw.gov.au
24 February, 2010
Education DG passes
principals’ test
A survey of public school principals by the Department of Education and Training has found high satisfaction levels with the Director General’s leadership and his advocacy for the Department and sector.
The positive responses were the highest since 2007.
The Principals Survey 2009 found that although principals thought the quality of communication between DET and schools had fallen since the survey was first undertaken in 2005, most still said it was working well.
The annual survey, which has been released to the public for the first time, asked principals to comment on the support and services they receive from within the Department.
A number of issues were raised by principals, including the desirability of appointing Directors General with an education background, increasing workloads and stress levels.
Many respondents said however that email communication from the Director General, Michael Coutts-Trotter and Deputy DG, Trevor Fletcher provided clarity and were “always informative and accurate.”
Mr Coutts-Trotter said the Department would use the information to track how well DET was supporting schools and to learn from its mistakes and successes.
He said the results were being made public for the first time to ensure the Department was open to public scrutiny.
“The quality of departmental support affects the work our school staff do for students,” Mr Coutts-Trotter said.
“It’s important the community has some insight into whether or not the Department is adequately supporting principals, school staff and students, and whether that support is getting better or not.”
Over 1,400 principals responded to the 2009 survey, which was conducted in October.
The survey results were available from www.det.nsw.gov.au
24 February, 2010
Development body to
develop developments
A new development authority for metropolitan Sydney is to be established to drive future transit-oriented development and manage urban renewal.
Announcing the Sydney Metropolitan Development Authority (SMDA), Premier, Kristina Keneally said it would be similar to the Redfern Waterloo Authority and the Barangaroo Delivery Authority.
Ms Keneally said the Authority would report to the Minister for Roads and Transport and the Minister for Planning and would have its own Board.
She said the SMDA would complement the Federal Government’s renewed focus on cities and would build on the Prime Minister’s vision for productive, affordable, sustainable and liveable cities.
Ms Keneally said the Federal Government – through the Federal Minister for Infrastructure– would play a key role in the new Authority.
She said the Commonwealth would hold a position on the SMDA’s board.
The Premier said the Authority would define and recommend areas that would benefit from renewal and act as the development proponent on State-owned land to expedite development and provide local economic benefits.
She said its aim was to attract private sector investment in urban renewal areas, and to establish partnerships with Councils, as the Department of Planning does in growth centres, to apply new transport-oriented development and rapid re-zoning tools to drive urban renewal.
24 February, 2010
Housing trial opens
door to improvements
New measures to improve the safety of high-rise public housing buildings are to be introduced on a trial basis in six new complexes at Waterloo.
Based on successful programs in similar buildings in Melbourne and New York, the measures will include a “concierge” style front desk, dedicated maintenance teams and extra security, especially at night.
The interstate and international examples report increased tenant support and reduced vandalism and anti-social behaviour.
Premier, Kristina Keneally and Minister for Housing, David Borger said the Waterloo Green Neighbourhood Project would adopt a three-pronged approach to tackling social housing issues.
Ms Keneally said offices in each building would be staffed during business hours by information and orientation employees; additional security would be provided by front office security guards and 60 additional CCTV cameras as well as swipe card access; and a contracted company, Spotless, would perform routine building maintenance.
“This is about making public housing safer for residents - particularly older people, people living on their own, and others who need support in their community,” Ms Keneally said.
“The project will provide residents with a safer home, information about local services, and a means of alerting support agencies if there are concerns about a resident’s wellbeing.”
Mr Borger said the program would lead to extra services and more jobs for social housing residents and if successful, would be rolled out at other locations.
“A non-government organisation will be contracted to deliver the welcome and information service, who will employ up to 12 social housing residents each year,” he said.
“The security company that provides services overnight, on weekends and on public holidays will also employ up to 12 social housing residents as trainees each year.
“And the maintenance contractor will employ up to 20 social housing residents as trainees or skilled tradespeople, to undertake maintenance under the Neighbourhood Repairs service.”
Mr Borger said the three year pilot program would begin in July and cover 1,260 apartments which house more than 1,500 residents.
Information sessions for residents are being held this week, after which tenders will be called.
24 February, 2010
Fire Brigades see
red over bullying
NSW Fire Brigades is to pursue court action over allegations of bullying and harassment dating back many years.
Minister for Emergency Services, Steve Whan confirmed the action and urged anyone with further allegations to come forward.
“Allegations of bullying and harassment are treated very seriously by the Government,” Mr Whan said, “including those that allege incidents from 20 and 30 years ago.
“I can confirm that charges have been laid against seven people and those people will go before the courts in March.”
Mr Whan said the charges related to allegations of bullying and harassment made decades ago.
“Any allegations of bullying and harassment are shocking, and the fact that they may be decades old does not lessen their impact,” he said.
Mr Whan urged anyone who witnessed incidents of bullying to speak to the Police.
He said there was no evidence that the “shocking events” that are alleged to have occurred in the past still take place today.
“This culture is absolutely not tolerated in today’s Fire Brigade,” Mr Whan said.
“There are a number of measures in place to ensure any issues around bullying and harassment are dealt with properly and independently.”
He said the employee Code of Conduct that was introduced in July 2009 was among the measures put in place to deal with bullying.
He said other measures include an expert advisory panel to oversee workplace conduct programs; a comprehensive review of workplace conduct; the establishment of an independent and external complaints handling system; and the rollout of new workplace conduct training to all staff including senior managers and officers at all NSWFB workplaces.
“Recognition, reporting and response to bullying and harassment is now part of the culture, and that work continues,” Mr Whan said.
“What we need to do today is focus on a changed culture that has not only allowed these allegations to be aired, but charges to be laid and people prosecuted.
“If there is any evidence that this is an ongoing issue or if more recent allegations come to light we will consider an inquiry,” the Minister said.
24 February, 2010
Verdict positive for
legal advice service
The free legal information service, LawAccess, has answered its millionth call from the public.
Launched by the Department of Justice and Attorney-General in 2001, the milestone was reached last year when the service experienced a record 191,616 calls in 2009.
Attorney-General, John Hatzistergos said the service provided legal information, advice and referrals for people with legal problems.
Mr Hatzistergos said the most common enquiries related to family law child arrangements, debt, domestic violence, neighbourhood disputes, wills and divorce.
“LawAccess is available to every person in NSW and is particularly focused on helping those in rural and isolated areas, Indigenous people, people with disabilities and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds,” he said.
“In the past year, LawAccess officers have visited dozens of rural and remote areas to raise awareness of the free legal assistance available.
“In 2009, nearly 38 per cent of callers to LawAccess were from regional and rural NSW.”
Mr Hatzistergos said calls from multicultural community members increased by 34 per cent in 2009.
He said around 94 per cent of users surveyed in 2009 said they were highly satisfied with the service.
LawAccess lawyers conducted just over 100,000 legal advice sessions since the service began in 2001.
LawAccess is a partnership between the Department of Justice and Attorney General, Legal Aid NSW, the Law Society of NSW and the NSW Bar Association.
The service is accessible by telephone on 1300 888 529 or online at www.lawaccess.nsw.gov.au
24 February, 2010
Agreement puts CBD
at the crossroads
The City of Sydney and the State Government are to sign an agreement later this year to work together on improving the Sydney CBD.
Premier, Kristina Keneally and Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore, said the Memorandum of Understanding would address issues with Sydney’s public transport, pedestrian and traffic movements within the CBD, focusing on George St, and would plan pedestrian-friendly areas and civic spaces.
Ms Moore said Sydney’s productivity was a “matter of national importance” and that an efficient public transport system was essential in securing Australia’s economic future.
“Convenient, reliable and efficient public transport offering a real alternative to the private motor vehicle is critical to reducing congestion, achieving green house gas emission cuts, ensuring sustainable economic and urban development, making our city more liveable and improving public health,” she said.
“Sydney’s status as a global centre of business, retailing, tourism and the arts is inextricably linked to an efficient public transport system.”
Ms Moore said she also welcomed the Government’s commitment to expand the light rail network in inner Sydney.
“I have been in discussions with the Premier about the opportunity to immediately implement a number of Sustainable Sydney 2030 transport projects, in order to secure Sydney’s future development,” she said.
Ms Keneally said the initiative was part of the Government’s Metropolitan Transport Plan: Connecting the City of Cities, a 25 year-vision for land use planning for Sydney and a 10-year fully funded package of transport infrastructure for Sydney and major regional centres.
“This is about working together with the Lord Mayor to improve Australia’s only global city.”
24 February, 2010
Campaign sheds light
on curtain danger
A national safety campaign urging parents to check blind and curtain cords to prevent their children from being injured or choked has been launched in NSW.
Minister for Fair Trading, Virginia Judge said at least 15 children had died in Australia in the past 20 years after being strangled by loose blind and curtain cords.
“In New South Wales, there were seven fatalities between 1988 and 2002,” Ms Judge said.
“Fortunately, there have been no more deaths in NSW since the State Government introduced tougher restrictions for blind and curtain cords in 2003.
“But while most other State and Territories have now adopted our laws, fatalities are still occurring.”
Ms Judge said Fair Trading had written to 11,500 curtain and blind suppliers and retailers, real estate agents, child care services, housing providers, child health centres and community groups this week asking them to help promote curtain cord safety.
She said blinds and cords were a “hidden danger” for children.
“Children do not understand that a curtain cord wrapped around their neck can tighten and strangle them in just a few minutes if they sit down, roll around or climb to the floor,” Ms Judge said.
“If you have blinds or curtains that may have been installed prior to January 2003, you should check for loose or looped cords and remove them immediately.
“If you cannot fix your unsafe cords out of the way, get a reliable tradesperson to do it for you,” the Minister said.
24 February, 2010
Long term plans for
short term study
The newly launched Metropolitan Transport Plan should be read in conjunction with the existing Metropolitan Strategy to create a single view for future land use and transport planning in Sydney, according to the Premier, Kristina Keneally.
Ms Keneally said the documents would set the scene for Sydney’s long and short-term integrated transport and land use planning.
“They should be read together as two halves of one whole,” she said.
Ms Keneally said the Metropolitan Transport Plan was a 10-year, fully funded package of transport infrastructure for Sydney and major regional centres while the Metropolitan Strategy was a 25-year vision for land use planning in Sydney.
She called for public comment on the two plans, saying it would help deliver a “single view” on future land use and transport planning.
“This is about re-allocating spending to where it is needed,” Ms Keneally said.
“Sydney is no longer one city. Sydney is a series of regional cities – Parramatta, Liverpool and Penrith – and accessible centres like Blacktown, Chatswood and Bondi Junction.
“This is about responding to the challenges of Sydney’s growing population and responding to where the jobs are located.”
She said that under the Metropolitan Transport Plan, Transport and Planning Ministers would jointly approve major transport infrastructure to ensure Sydney’s transport needs were matched with its growth.
Ms Keneally said Sydney was expected to grow by 1.7 million people to 5.98 million by 2036.
“The Metropolitan Transport Plan is about getting people home from work as quick as possible,” she said.
“By 2016, 25 per cent of all trips to work will be taken by public transport.”
Ms Keneally said this was the first time that governance, accountability and management had been integrated into a single plan.
24 February, 2010
Outreach workers
to reach out
Twenty-three Outreach Worker placements for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders have been announced for medical practices across NSW.
Federal Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon said 83 places had been created across Australia and would help close the gap in life expectancy between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.
Mr Snowdon said 160 placements would ultimately be funded under the Commonwealth’s $42 million four-year plan to build the capacity of the Indigenous health workforce.
“The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Outreach Workers will help increase community engagement with health services, including increasing the uptake of Indigenous health checks and identifying Indigenous people who would benefit from improved access to health services,” he said.
“In addition, they will assist Indigenous people to access other health services, including follow-up care, specialist services and community pharmacies.
The Minister said that expanding the Indigenous health workforce was a key element of the Federal Government’s Indigenous Chronic Disease Package.
Mr Snowdon said that in addition to NSW’s 23 placements, Queensland would receive 24, Western Australia 12, Victoria nine, the Northern Territory eight, South Australia six and the Australian Capital Territory one.
He said the Outreach Workers would be employed by Aboriginal community controlled health organisations and Divisions of General Practice and would have access to nationally accredited basic level training through the vocational education and training sector.
“This will give them the flexibility to develop career paths in the health sector if they choose, by undertaking more advanced training such as that for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers or enrolled nurses,” Mr Snowdon said.
“We already have dedicated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers who perform a vital role in providing primary health care services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and these new roles will extend our workforce even further.”
The new workers are expected to be appointed to Health Clinics before the end of June.
NSW practices chosen to receive them are:
- Central Sydney General Practice Network, Ashfield
- NSW Central West Division of General Practice, Bathurst
- NSW Outback, Burke
- Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation, Campbelltown
- Dubbo Plains Division of GP, Dubbo
- Central Coast Division of General Practice, Erina
- Bulgarr Ngaru Medical Aboriginal Corporation, Grafton
- Hunter Rural Division of General Practice, Greenhills
- Griffith Aboriginal Community Medical Service Inc, Griffith
- Went West, Harris Park (two workers)
- Northern Rivers General Practice Network, Lismore
- Macarthur Division of General Practice Limited, Minto DC
- Barwon Division of General Practice, Moree
- Aboriginal Medical Service Western Sydney Coop Ltd, Mt Druitt, Sydney
- GP Access, Newcastle
- South Coast Aboriginal Medical Service, Nowra
- Nepean Division of General Practice, Penrith
- Hastings Macleay General Practice Network, Port Macquarie
- Hawkesbury-Hills Division of General Practice, Rouse Hill
- Walgett Aboriginal Medical Service, Walgett
- Awabakal Newcastle Medical Cooperative, Wickham, Newcastle
- Illawarra Aboriginal Medical Service, Wollongong
24 February, 2010
Councils rated in
performance report
Performance monitoring of Local Government Councils has revealed the most efficient and productive are those in country areas.
Minister for Planning, Tony Kelly congratulated the Temora, Urana, Berrigan, Hay and Cootamundra Councils for being the top five in the State according to the Local Development Performance Monitoring Report.
“Each of the top five Councils processed development applications in less than 18 days, on average, with Temora the best performed at just nine days,” Mr Kelly said.
“Liverpool is at the top of the Sydney Councils (46 days) followed by Hurstville (49).
“It’s also great to see a number of Sydney Councils have significantly improved their performance, including Ashfield, Auburn, Woollahra, Lane Cove and Holroyd.”
Mr Kelly said the report showed encouraging signs that the local planning system was becoming more efficient and responsive, especially for small ‘mum and dad’ building proposals.
“The report shows the NSW Government’s planning improvements are starting to speed up the Local Council planning process, including the 10-day approval process now available through the housing code,” he said.
“There are still some Councils which have more work to do to reduce determination times, including Wellington which took an average of 203 days, Manly (136 days), Parramatta (132 days), Hunters Hill (130 days) and Palerang (130 days).”
In total, Local Councils and certifiers determined approximately 71,000 development applications and about 10,000 complying development applications last year, worth $19.3 billion.
Mr Kelly said an increasing number of new homes were also given fast-tracked approval.
He said the Government was considering other reforms to the assessment process to further streamline the system and decrease determination times.
The full performance report was available from www.planning.nsw.gov.au
24 February, 2010
Old buildings
new to register
Three significant Sydney landmarks have been added to the NSW State Heritage Register.
The Queen Victoria Building, Sydney Town Hall and Luna Park will now be protected and preserved.
Premier, Kristina Keneally Minister for Planning, Tony Kelly and Sydney Lord Mayor, Clover Moore made the announcement jointly at Sydney’s Town Hall.
“These three sites embody the history and identity of Australia’s global city,” Ms Keneally said.
“It is impossible to think about Sydney without these three landmarks.”
She said adding them to the register would mean any major works for the sites would be subject to decisions or advice from the Heritage Council of NSW and the Sydney City Council; they would receive increased access to State heritage funding; and would have to be maintained to a certain standard.
Mr Kelly said the listings would formally recognise the heritage significance of the buildings to the residents of New South Wales.
“The Queen Victoria Building and Sydney Town Hall are grand central Sydney buildings, used by thousands of people each day,” Mr Kelly said.
“Luna Park is a Sydney’s cultural icon which is an excellent example of amusement park and fantasy architecture in the Art Deco style of the 1930s, which provides colour and life alongside the harbour.
He said the QVB, constructed between 1893 and 1898, had “no known equal” in Australia for its architectural style, scale, level of detailing and craftsmanship.
It was originally constructed as the city’s central markets and was regarded as an ambitious civic project for its era. It was named in honour of Queen Victoria in celebration of her diamond jubilee in 1897.
The Sydney Town Hall, completed in 1889, represents the most elaborate and exuberant work of Second Empire Style architecture in Australia.
Luna Park was reopened in 1995 and is a rare and unique surviving example of 1930s architecture.
Ms Moore said the heritage listing of the three buildings was timely, as stage one of a five-year rescue plan for the Town Hall had just been completed.
“As custodians of these buildings, the city has a duty of care to preserve and protect them,” she said.
“I invite the Sydney community to reclaim the Sydney Town Hall during our weekend of reopening celebrations from March 5 to 7, which will include open days, exhibitions and two free concerts.”
24 February, 2010
Crime plan pays
as rates tumble
A survey by the Australian Bureau of Statistics into public attitudes towards crime has found that most NSW residents feel safe in their own neighbourhoods.
The ABS Crime Victimisation 2009 survey found that with the exception of motor vehicle theft, in every crime category NSW was below the Australian average.
Minister for Police, Michael Daley said NSW, together with the ACT and South Australia, had the lowest average for assaults as a proportion of the population (3.1 per cent).
“Similarly in threatened assaults, NSW has the lowest rate at 3.8 per cent compared to the national average of 4.2 per cent,” Mr Daley said.
“In property crime we have lower levels than most of Australia – the NSW rate of break-ins at 3.0 per cent is below the national average of 3.3 per cent.”
He said the results confirmed the intelligence-based policing approach and use of the latest technology to prevent crime was working.
“Again, with theft from motor vehicles and malicious damage, the NSW rates of 3.9 per cent and 10.8 per cent respectively are below the National averages of 4.5 per cent and 11.1 per cent for each of those crimes,” Mr Daley said.
“This is an excellent report card, and the NSW Government will continue to work closely with the NSW Police Force to stay one step ahead of the criminals.”
The ABS data was collected from a survey of 25,601 households across Australia, which equates to around 8,000 households in NSW on a proportional basis.
24 February, 2010
Sale plans advance
Treasurer, Eric Roozendaal has announced due diligence for the State’s retail electricity and Gentrader transactions will commence towards the middle of 2010.
Mr Roozendaal said the Government’s advisors would continue to finalise the necessary contractual information and legal documentation for the sale of the assets.
He said further details regarding the retail and Gentrader due diligence process would be released in due course but that the sales were expected to be completed later this year.
New restraint rules
The Government has signed off on new child restraint rules all passenger vehicles which will require all children under seven to travel in an approved child restraint.
The changes, announced last year, are based on national safety regulations and will come into operation in NSW on 1 March.
Details of the new regulations, together with the approved restraints, were available from www.rta.nsw.gov.au
Dogs graduate
In a world first, two dogs have “graduated” from a NSW Juvenile Justice Centre where they were trained by young offenders to help people with physical disabilities.
The dogs, Frankie and Baxter have been trained as Assistance Dogs by juvenile offenders while at the same time assisting in detainee rehabilitation.
Under the Justice Pups program, the dogs are trained for a year by juvenile detainees, before undertaking a further six months of training at Assistance Dogs Australia’s national centre.
Forests get trainees
Two new trainees have been chosen for traineeships under the Forests NSW Indigenous Recruitment Strategy.
The two men, Dane Walker and Cody Reti, will acquire a wide range of forestry skills in the two years working in native and plantation forests while supplementing their practical tasks with TAFE study.
Mr Walker and Mr Reti will achieve a Certificate III Traineeship in Forest Growing and Management.
Home law to be rewritten
The Home Building ACT 1989 is to be re-written by Fair Trading to cover the licensing and regulation of builders and contractors in the residential building industry.
A consultation paper has been prepared for public comment and was available from www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au
Submissions on the proposed changes close on 19 March.
Cancer network for kids
The State Government and the Oncology Children’s Foundation have joined forces to create the Cancer Cytoskeleton Network.
Minister for Science and Medical Research, Jodi McKay said the Network would pool the expertise of leading researchers to help fight cancer.
Ms McKay said the CCN would work to “crack the mysteries” of cancer cell skeleton structure.
Cockatoo comes to life
The life and times of Cockatoo Island workers during the 1960s and 70s are the subject of an art exhibition on display at the island.
The works are by artist Bill Nix, who worked on the island’s shipyards from 1963 as an errand boy, apprentice fitter and draughtsman.
Entry to the exhibition, which opens on 1 March, is free.
Flood support flows in
Financial assistance will be provided by the Federal Government to communities affected by flooding on the NSW South Coast and in the far west.
Assistance provided under the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements includes concessional loans, road and freight subsidies for primary producers and personal hardship and distress grants.
Areas to receive assistance include Bega and Eurobodalla Shires as well as Central Darling and Cobar Shires.
17 February, 2010
New nest opened for
State legal eagles
The Director of Public Prosecutions has opened a new $13.2 million head office in Sydney.
Attorney-General, John Hatzistergos and the Director of Public Prosecutions, Nicholas Cowdery said the new Liverpool Street premises would improve the functionality of the office, which had previously been located at three separate addresses in Castlereagh, Pitt and Elizabeth Streets.
“Bringing staff together under one roof will enable the integration of the DPP’s Crown Prosecutors with solicitors and Witness Assistance Service (WAS) officers and help make the office run more effectively and efficiently,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
“The ODPP performs a vital role in the administration of criminal justice and is central to the delivery of legal services across this State.”
Mr Cowdery said staff had been given a significant boost by the new environment.
“The nearly 400 lawyers, Crown Prosecutors, WAS officers and administrative staff who make up our Sydney office work incredibly hard in prosecuting serious crime of behalf of the State,” Mr Cowdery said.
“It makes a difference to officers’ wellbeing and efficiency to be able to work in modern offices and to be able to consult with one another with relative ease.
“That means better prosecutions.”
The new premises feature an in-house, state-of-the-art training facility dedicated to the late DPP solicitor and disability activist, Matt Laffan.
Mr Cowdery said staff and management agreed to name the new centre after Mr Laffan, who is regarded as “a great lawyer” and was a “much respected and loved member of the prosecution team.”
“He would be delighted to be associated with an open, accessible space dedicated to the education and professional improvement of staff,” he said.
The Attorney-General also paid tribute to Mr Laffan, who died in March last year after a battle with diastrophic dysplasia.
“Mr Laffan was an extraordinary human being who touched the lives of many in the community and in the legal profession,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
17 February, 2010
Killer plan to
tackle cancer
A five-year plan to cut the rate of cancer in the NSW community and improve services to patients and their families has been unveiled by the Premier, Kristina Keneally and Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Cancer), Frank Sartor.
The NSW Cancer Plan 2011-2015 includes five key pillars: prevention, early detection, improved services and professional development, research and improved data and information-gathering.
Ms Keneally said the plan was the third edition of the State-wide Cancer Plan that commenced in 2004.
She said community consultation on the plan had begun and urged individuals, organisations, health professionals, patients and carers to have their say.
“Working together, we can create a plan that reflects the community’s priorities for cancer care and research,” Ms Keneally said.
Mr Sartor said NSW was one of the most successful places in the world for managing cancer, with 63 per cent of sufferers now alive more than five years after being diagnosed.
“The Cancer Plans have contributed to this strong result and it’s a testament to the hard work of our health practitioners,” he said.
Mr Sartor said childhood cancer remained a high priority for the Government and would be a key focus of the new plan.
“Before the 1960s childhood cancer was almost always fatal, but today, in Australia, survival rates are about 70 per cent across all types of childhood cancer,” he said.
“This plan is about reducing those figures further.”
Every year in Australia, more than 600 children are diagnosed with cancer.
Comments on the plan will be received until 7 March, with more information available from www.cancerplan.cancerinstitute.org.au
17 February, 2010
Study made easier
for foreign students
A new Premier’s Council is to be established to look after the needs and interests of international students choosing to study in NSW.
The Premier’s Council on International Education is to be chaired by the Director General of the Department of Premier and Cabinet, Brendan O’Reilly.
The Premier, Kristina Keneally announced the Council at the Premier’s Indian Community Roundtable.
Ms Keneally said service providers, industry and student representatives would be included on the Council and would provide advice on programs to build and foster relationships between the community and international students.
“NSW is a welcoming place to live, work and study,” she said.
“This unique body will ensure we are getting direct and constructive advice on issues that are affecting the international student community, and can take action if required.”
Ms Keneally said over 230,000 international students were enrolled in courses in NSW and that the number of Indian students had grown from less than 500 in 2004 to more than 18,000 in 2009.
“NSW is the number one destination for international students coming to Australia,” she said.
The Premier said a number of plans would be implemented through the Council, including programs to improve safety awareness among students and provide information about travel and accommodation.
Ms Keneally said the Minister for State and Regional Development, Ian Macdonald, would visit Mumbai in early March to officially open one of two new NSW Business Offices
“The NSW Government’s relationships with India, China and the Middle East are paramount,” she said.
‘It is vitally important that we promote and foster our relationships through these new trade offices at a time when the world is recovering from a major economic downturn.”
17 February, 2010
Schools chalk up
super teachers
The first 13 “Highly Accomplished Teachers” have been chosen for NSW schools and will take up their appointments at selected Centres of Excellence this year and next.
Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth congratulated the teachers, saying they would help broaden and strengthen the skills of their colleagues.
“Teacher quality is widely recognised as the single greatest in-school influence on student engagement and outcomes,” Ms Firth said.
“These teachers will work with all staff in their school but will have a particular focus on beginning teachers, university students undertaking school placements, as well as the more experienced teachers who are focused on achieving higher accreditation with the NSW Institute of Teachers.
“Their role has a strong focus on demonstrating quality teaching practices to other teachers through mentoring and team teaching.”
She said all the schools selected as Centres of Excellence were chosen for consistently achieving strong results, which is an indication of high quality teaching.
“Each Centre will form the hub for a cluster of schools which will extend the benefits to a further 200 schools across the State through Connected Classroom technology,” Ms Firth said.
“Our agreement with the Commonwealth under National Partnerships gives schools access to a range of new Federal and State funding worth more than $891 million over 5 years.”
The 13 teachers have been assigned to North Ryde Public School; Epping Boys High School; Macarthur Girls High School; Carlingford West Public School; Lansvale Public School; Macquarie Fields High School; Morisset Public School; Merewether Public School; Oxley High School; Temora High School; Eden Marine High School; Nowra High School; and Mudgee High School.
17 February, 2010
Police open doors
to new recruits
NSW Police will throw open the doors of its Police College in Goulburn next Sunday (21 February) and all those interested in policing as a career are being urged to take a look.
Minister for Police, Michael Daley said modern day policing offered a diverse range of career opportunities, excellent wages starting at $55,491 for a probationary constable, and generous leave provisions.
“If you’re bright, want to service your community and crack down on crime, then the NSW Police Force is the place for you,” Mr Daley said.
“A career in policing offers access to the latest crime solving technology and the opportunity to work in units as varied as the Air Wing, Bike Patrol, Detectives, Dog Unit, Forensics, Highway Patrol, Mounted Police, Rescue Squad or Water Police.
“There are few jobs more important or more highly regarded in our community than being a police officer.”
Mr Daley said those interested in becoming a police officer needed to be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, have at least a Green P plate licence or interstate equivalent, have a clean record and be in good physical shape.
“No-one is too old to join the NSW Police Force, there is no upper age limit as long as you meet the physical requirements,” he said.
“We are recruiting people with more life experience than before – people looking for a challenging career change.”
Mr Daley said the Police Force welcomed recruits with trade or tertiary qualifications and who could speak a second language as well as English.
The NSW Police College is located at McDermott Drive, Goulburn and the Open Day runs from 10am to 4pm.
Further information was available from 1800 222 122.
17 February, 2010
Weekly payments are
order of the day
New rules to allow welfare recipients to receive income support payments weekly instead of fortnightly have been announced by the Commonwealth’s social security agency, Centrelink.
Federal Minister for Community Services, Jenny Macklin said the Social Security and Family Legislation Amendment (Weekly Payments) Bill 2010 would help vulnerable people, particularly those at risk of homelessness, better manage their money.
Ms Macklin said Centrelink officers would identify customers who found budgeting difficult and offer them the weekly payment option.
“This reform will target vulnerable Australians who find it difficult to budget and often end the fortnight with no money in their pockets and bills left to pay,” Ms Macklin said.
“These changes will help ensure people have regular access to money to purchase food, clothing and medicines, and keep up with regular payments such as rent.
The Commonwealth Minister for Housing, Tanya Plibersek said the weekly payments would help those struggling to pay rent in housing.
“Homelessness is a national priority and these changes will make sure that people are balancing their money across the fortnight, making it easier to stay on top of rent and mortgage repayments,” Ms Plibersek said.
The national Minister for Human Services, Chris Bowen said the new system would allow Centrelink to respond better to customer needs.
“The Government is committed to improving service delivery for all Australians,” Mr Bowen said.
“This includes tailoring Centrelink’s services to assist the most vulnerable people in our society by providing them with more options.”
17 February, 2010
Camping campaign
canvassed for NSW
A new campaign to encourage holidaymakers to try camping and caravanning in NSW has been launched by the Minister for Tourism, Jodi McKay.
Ms McKay said the campaign was a partnership between the NSW Government and the Caravan and Camping Industry Association NSW (CCIA).
She said it would highlight some of the best family holiday experiences to be had in a tent or van in the State.
Ms McKay said more than 30 per cent of Australia’s caravan and holiday parks were in NSW.
“The NSW South Coast, Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers regions represent the top three caravan and camping destinations in Australia, according to Tourism Research Australia,” she said.
“It’s possible to experience almost every kind of environment that Australia offers without leaving NSW in our holiday parks and campsites and we have some fantastic nature experiences ideally suited to campers and caravanning families.”
Ms Keneally said she was “delighted” the CCIA had joined with Tourism NSW to execute the campaign.
Chief Executive of CCIA NSW, Barry Baillie said caravan and camping tourism had experienced a revival over the past decade.
“The value for money, camaraderie and quality experiences offered by caravan and camping holidays is what attracts many Australians to the lifestyle,” Mr Baillie said.
“Over summer, many coastal holiday parks were booked up until the Australia Day holiday with many reporting an increase in travellers using camper trailers and tents on powered sites.”
Further information on the campaign was available from www.visitnsw.com
17 February, 2010
Music graduates tune
in for overdue reunion
More than 240 former students of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music have been inducted into the Alumni of the University of Sydney in response to a call for pre-1990 students to reacquaint themselves with the facility.
The Conservatory officially joined forces with the university in 1990.
Dean and Principal of ‘The Con’, Professor Kim Walker said before the partnership thousands of students had studied at The Con.
Professor Walker said the former students, some of whom had studied in the 1920s, deserved recognition for their contributions to the Conservatory.
“We and the University are extremely pleased to be able to bestow on them the honour they deserve,” Professor Walker said.
“The people who have come forward represent a range of generations, but all of them with wonderful experiences and situations to tell from their time at The Con and their lives and contributions thereafter.”
Some of the more senior new alumni include 95-year-old Nancy Tuck and 94-year-old Robert Dunn.
Ms Tuck was a Theatre Nurse at the Children’s Hospital for 12 years before completing diploma courses in singing and piano in 1953.
She had a long career as a music teacher at a range of high schools, including 25 years at Pymble Ladies College, where she became Director of Music.
“This is a very special occasion” Ms Tuck said.
“I never thought it would happen. But now that it is, I’m thrilled.
“It will be wonderful to perhaps catch-up with some other students from my time at the Con.”
Mr Dunn studied the violin and viola from 1946 to 49 and later joined the Railway Institute Orchestra as lead violinist and conductor.
“I remember my time at The Con with great affection, so am very chuffed that hundreds of former students like me are being honoured in this way so many years down the track,” Mr Dunn said.
Each former student will receive a certificate confirming Alumnus status.
17 February, 2010
Troubled suburbs on
road to renewal
A partnership approach adopted by the Government and community of Redfern and Waterloo is succeeding in transforming the area and setting it on the road to renewal, according to data released by the Premier, Kristina Keneally.
Ms Keneally said it was back in 2001 that the Government committed to revitalising the area by focusing on urban renewal, improved human services and job creation.
Three years later it created the Redfern Waterloo Authority (RWA).
Ms Keneally said the ongoing partnership program, which involves local Aboriginal leaders, was starting to bear strong results as the latest police statistics showed offences committed by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) juveniles had fallen by 16.7 per cent in 2008-09.
Robberies committed by ATSI juveniles over the same period fell by 80 per cent.
“Today’s report card shows that all indicators for the renewal of Redfern and Waterloo are moving in the right direction: training and jobs numbers are up, housing demand is up, and crime has dropped significantly,” Ms Keneally said.
Minister for Police, Michael Daley praised local police and the community for their cooperative approach.
“Police from the Redfern Local Area Command have done an outstanding job,” Mr Daley said.
“It is clear that a better relationship between police and the Aboriginal community has significantly contributed to the reduction in crime in the local area.” He said a number of programs advocating consultation, health, fitness and crime prevention have been developed between police and the community.
Ms Keneally said median house prices had been climbing steadily, with house prices in Redfern rising 12 per cent in 2009 and 38 per cent over the past four years.
She said employment opportunities in the area had grown thanks to projects such as the Eveleigh Markets.
“The co-ordinated effort in Redfern and Waterloo has changed the way Government and community work together, removing layers of bureaucracy and creating direct relationships with the people who can effect positive change,” Ms Keneally said.
17 February, 2010
Cameras to focus
on bushfires
New South Wales is to take part in a two-State trial of bushfire detection cameras.
The Minister for Forest Resources, Ian Macdonald announced the plan along with the Victorian Minister for Emergency Services, Bob Cameron and Commonwealth Attorney-General, Robert McClelland.
Mr Macdonald said the trial commenced on 15 February near Tumut and in the Otway Ranges in Victoria.
He said it would run until the end of April, with a possible one month extension depending on conditions.
Mr Macdonald said the cameras, which are provided by three separate private contractors, continually monitor bushland and automatically detect smoke and lightning to help pinpoint where and when a bushfire starts.
He said the information would help fire fighters get to a fire as fast as possible.
He said the trial locations were chosen to provide as broad a coverage as possible.
Three cameras are being trialled at Mt Tumorrama in the Tumut region under ‘controlled conditions’, which include test burning to evaluate the performance of the system under simulated conditions.
Funded by the Australian Government, the $3 million trial will be evaluated by the Bushfire Cooperative Research Centre (CRC).
The CRC will compare the effectiveness of different camera systems and examine their ability to accurately detect fires, avoid false detections, and their potential to be integrated into existing emergency management processes.
The effectiveness of the cameras will be evaluated against existing detection systems, such as spotters in towers and planes, Triple Zero emergency calls and satellite-based systems.
17 February, 2010
New parking scheme
to kerb confusion
A new national parking permit scheme for people with disabilities is expected to be in place by July this year.
Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Disabilities and Children’s Services, Bill Shorten said a national scheme would deliver a more consistent system for the estimated 900,000 disability parking permit holders across Australia.
Mr Shorten said consultations on the scheme had shown community support for the plan, with those who submitted their views saying a national scheme was needed to make it less confusing for people with a permit when they travelled interstate.
He said the consultations also showed the public backed better enforcement of penalties against those who broke disability parking rules.
“It is clear that people with disability rely on disability parking schemes and want to see them better enforced,” Mr Shorten said.
“The consultations also endorse the commitment of Disability Ministers to create a scheme where no existing permit-holder will be worse off.”
He said any uniform concessions imposed would be minimum standards and that States which had more generous concessions for permit holders would be able to maintain them.
Mr Shorten said the current system was confusing and stressful as there are more than 100 different types of parking permits and differing eligibility criteria across the country.
“Disability parking schemes give independence and dignity to many Australians with limited mobility,” he said.
“We want to make sure we get this national scheme right, which is why we have taken the time to consult widely with the public and key organisations.”
Mr Shorten said consultations with States, Territories and disability and medical groups were continuing to determine the final eligibility and concessions criteria.
17 February, 2010
Tunnel vision
for tall trucks
A new campaign warning the drivers of tall vehicles of the dangers of entering tunnels has been launched by the Department of Transport.
Warning signs at the entrances to the Sydney Harbour Tunnel, as well light sensor detector beams on the approaches to the Eastern Distributor, M5 East, Lane Cove and Cross City Tunnels have been installed to alert truck drivers when their vehicles are too tall to enter the tunnels.
Acting Minister for Transport, David Borger said the campaign aimed to educate heavy vehicle drivers to be aware of the height of their trailers, the restrictions that apply to trailers and the consequences of ignoring the restrictions.
Mr Borger said the Roads and Traffic Authority would write to all registered heavy vehicle operators in NSW with information about tunnel restrictions.
“There are strong penalties in place for drivers who fail to comply with height restrictions,” he said
“Under Chain of Responsibility Laws, the maximum penalty for a severe breach is $55,000.
“Drivers may also be liable for any damage they cause to the tunnel.”
Mr Borger said over 1,100 over-height vehicles were detected approaching Sydney’s motorway tunnels in 2009.
He said drivers who ignored the warnings risked damaging their vehicle and the tunnel.
“Once an overheight vehicle is detected approaching the Harbour Tunnel southbound, a giant stop sign - projected onto a sheet of water at the entrance to the tunnel - is displayed,” Mr Borger said.
“Along the approaches to the other tunnels, light sensors detect over-height vehicles, sending warnings to drivers through electronic signs along the route.”
He said there were 150 incidents involving over-height trucks entering tunnels in 2009, many of which caused damage to the tunnel’s roof, lighting and fire system.
“When a vehicle gets stuck in a tunnel it causes delays and disruptions for other motorists and can significantly affect traffic flow.”
17 February, 2010
Asbestos study
done and dusted
A new study into the level of awareness and compliance with laws relating to asbestos in the workplace has been released by Safe Work Australia.
The report, Asbestos Exposure and Compliance Study of Construction and Maintenance Workers, looked at current levels of awareness, compliance and attitudes towards asbestos by tradespeople.
Chair of Safe Work Australia, Tom Phillips said the study assessed whether tradies were informed about the risks of exposure, could identify the material and control the risks when working with it.
Mr Phillips urged Local, State and Federal Governments to work together to improve worker education and information on asbestos.
He said that in light of the survey results, practical advice on how workers could protect themselves from exposure to asbestos, and on safe asbestos removal and disposal was needed.
Mr Phillips said the study showed while there was a higher level of awareness about asbestos among tradies, their awareness was not accompanied by knowledge of how to recognise asbestos or control the risks when working with it.
The survey found most tradespeople surveyed believed they could protect themselves from the risk of asbestos, but overall compliance with safety procedures and appropriate disposal were lower than the workers estimated.
“It is concerning that although tradespeople have a high level of awareness and confidence in being able to protect themselves, this is not matched with the use of necessary safety precautions when working with asbestos,” Mr Phillips said.
“The results of this study will be used to inform effective strategies to eliminate, or reduce, worker exposure to asbestos.
The report could be accessed at www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au
17 February, 2010
Safety net widens
for internet use
A world-first pilot program addressing cyber safety for students is to run in 43 schools across New South Wales.
Federal Minister for Education, Julia Gillard said 164 schools in Australia would take part in the $3 million national initiative.
Ms Gillard said participating schools would implement policies and practices to support the safe, smart and responsible use of technology.
She said the schools would be provided with web resources to allow them to create an approach to cyber safety that met their individual needs.
“There is no one size fits all approach to bullying in schools but we are determined to provide teachers and school leaders with a range of tools to help them deal with bullying,” Ms Gillard said.
“Government and non-Government primary and secondary schools in urban, rural and remote Australia will participate in the cyber safety pilot which will run until 30 April 2010.
“The project will help clarify the role that schools play in ensuring responsible and safe use of technology.”
She said the pilot aimed to make cyber safety an integral part of student wellbeing practices in schools by improving cyber safety curriculum and increasing teachers’ skills in the area.
The Minister said the program would also help schools work with parents and the community
“Content for the initiative has been informed by extensive research and by a number of cyber-safety experts from across Australia,” Ms Gillard said.
“The Government is deeply concerned about the emergence of cyber-bullying in our schools and the impact it is having on students.”
She said the outcomes of the pilot would be independently evaluated and used to inform the Government’s review of the National Safe Schools Framework (NSSF) which is expected to be completed in June 2010.
The initiative was developed and conducted by child safety charity, the Alannah and Madeline Foundation.
For a list of NSW schools to be included in the program visit www.deewr.gov.au
17 February, 2010
Airservices trainees
hit ground running
Airservices Australia has welcomed 14 new trainees to a two-year diploma course in Electronics and Communications Engineering at TAFE NSW’s Riverina Institute in Wagga Wagga in the State’s south.
The trainees will join 15 other students who are entering their second year of the Airservices-funded course.
The course aims to teach the trainees how to maintain Australia’s high-tech air traffic control equipment to enable them to become technical officers with the air navigation service provider.
Spokesperson for Airservices, Rob Walker said the trainees would benefit from a unique partnership between TAFE, the Regional Development Board and the Wagga Wagga City Council.
“We’re working together to offer regional training opportunities and to protect the future of Australia’s air navigation system at the same time,” Mr Walker said.
“In 2010 our trainees come from regional and metropolitan areas in every State and territory except Tasmania and the ACT.”
He said the trainees would learn about communications, surveillance, navigation aids, data systems and how to maintain safety-critical aviation equipment.
“The course also includes practical training and work experience on Airservices equipment including instrument landing systems, radars and other air navigation aids,” Mr Walker said.
Airservices is to offer 18 training positions a year for the next three years as part of a regional skills development program.
17 February, 2010
Farm centre planted
to grow exports
A new farming research centre to be established on the Central Coast is expected to help NSW farmers produce crops with the minimal use of pesticides and to export their produce to new markets in Asia and beyond.
A joint Industry and Investment NSW project, the $5.9 million facility will be located at the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast campus and be completed by December this year.
The Premier, Kristina Keneally said research conducted at the centre would help NSW gain better access to markets such as Taiwan, the United States and Japan while reducing the use of pesticides.
“Once complete, this will be a leading Australian horticulture research facility helping farmers establish long-term and lucrative markets in Asia and other overseas markets,” Ms Keneally said.
“Due to research from this state-of-the art facility, NSW cherries will be going to Taiwan, peaches to the United States and nectarines to Japan.
“World-class researchers will be based here and will help to make new horticultural technology and best-practice more accessible to NSW farmers.”
She said the research would also help farmers increase their productivity, use less water when producing crops and produce “bigger and better vegetables.”
Ms Keneally said the new facility would build on the success of the Government’s existing program, the Primary Industries Institute in Gosford.
She said the program had resulted in the reopening of Australian trade with Taiwan for stone fruit and cherries, estimated to be worth $30 million.
17 February, 2010
Premier backs PS
Premier, Kristina Keneally has stood by the Public Servants from the Department of Planning who were accused of engaging in corrupt behaviour.
Ms Keneally said the finding by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) that there was not a “skerrick of evidence” to back up the allegations highlighted the need for the public to exercise “appropriate judgement” and to presume innocence in the face of such claims.
She said Public Servants and Members of Parliament were vulnerable to the publicity of an ICAC referral and that some people involved had suffered personal distress as a result.
Ms Keneally said they should not be made victims of “vexatious complaints.”
Ombudsman goes east
The NSW Ombudsman has translated one of its most important advisory manuals into Chinese.
The publication, Managing Unreasonable Complainant Conduct Practice Manual, was produced by the Control Yuan of the Republic of China and distributed to Taiwanese Government Agencies that deal with citizen’s complaints.
The translated manual was available from www.ombo.nsw.gov.au
Writing on wall for graffiti
The State’s first Graffiti Action Day is to be held on 2 May, when volunteers will team up with Keep Australia Beautiful (NSW) members to clean up graffiti tags, slogans and paintwork on public buildings, property and infrastructure.
The Action Day is part of a wider NSW Government crackdown on graffiti, which includes increased penalties for offenders and greater restrictions on purchasing spray cans.
To volunteer on the day or to nominate a site for cleaning, visit www.kabnsw.org.au
Comment call on accounts
Comment is being sought on a proposed national chart of accounts for the not-for-profit sector.
A national standard is to be introduced to guide how not-for-profit groups are required to report their basic financial information to Government.
A standard chart of accounts (SCOA) was proposed which allow groups who report to more than one Government funder to keep one set of financial records. Comments close on 10 March 2010, with further information available from the Better Regulation Office, (02) 9228 4842.
Centrelink busy in Young
Following the closure of the Burrangong Meat Processors in Young, Centrelink has diverted its Mobile Office to the area to help affected families gain better access to Government services.
Centrelink Rural Services Officers, Rural Social Workers, Psychologists and Medicare Australia staff will be on hand to deliver a range of services and provide information and support.
The mobile office will be located in Lovell St in Young from 8:30am to 4:30pm until Thursday 18 February.
M4 toll-free
Motorists are now travelling on the M4 Motorway for free after the road was handed back to the NSW Government.
To travel on the M4, which stretches 40km from Concord in Sydney’s inner west to the foothills of the Blue Mountains, motorist previously had to pay a toll.
Some diversions and speed restrictions will be temporarily in place while infrastructure such as the toll booths is removed.
The Roads and Traffic Authority has urged motorists to be patient with any temporary congestion.
Students in stamp quest
Students have been invited to compete in a competition to design a new stamp to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Lachlan Macquarie’s swearing-in as Governor General of NSW.
Australia Post said it would create 100 copies of the winning stamp, which the school could preserve or post.
The competition is part of the 2010 Connected Learning Awards, which have six categories including design digital art, digital stories, short films, websites and greeting cards.
Welfare book funded
The Commonwealth Government has provided the Welfare Rights Centre in NSW with funding to revise a handbook that advises income support recipients of their rights and obligations when accessing government payments.
The subscription fee for the Online Independent Social Security Handbook will be dropped and the publication made free.
The handbook provides easy to understand information on eligibility criteria and income and assets tests used to determine government payments, as well as advice on review and appeal rights.
Seniors encouraged
Seniors card holders in NSW have been encouraged to use their new cards to save on transport services, automotive services, holidays and travel, leisure and professional services.
Almost one million Senior Card holders have received a copy of the 2010 Discount Directory which lists over 3,100 businesses that offer card holders savings of at least 10 per cent.
The Directory is divided into five regional guides: Sydney and Surrounds, Central Coast and Hunter, Northern NSW, Southern NSW and Western NSW.
Further discount details were also available at www.seniorscard.nsw.gov.au
10 February, 2010
Premier sharpens push
to cut red tape
The Premier has issued a memorandum reminding Ministers and Directors General of their role in achieving the Government’s goal to reduce red tape by $500 million by June 2011.
The Premier, Kristina Keneally said all Directors General of State Government Departments must provide the Better Regulation Office (BRO) with a bi-annual written report on their progress towards cutting red tape.
Ms Keneally said the reports must be submitted by 30 June and 31 December each year and needed to address achievements in reducing red tape over the previous six months.
She said they must include quantification of the cost savings of reforms to business, Government and the community by using the BRO’s online measurement tool, Measuring the Costs of Regulation.
Ms Keneally said Directors General should also include their Departments’ plans to decrease red tape for the following six months, including estimates of expected costs savings using the measurement tool.
“Progress in achieving the $500 million target will be reported publicly and regularly on the BRO website,” she said.
“The results will also be published in Making it Easy in NSW: Annual Update, BRO’s annual report on the NSW Government’s performance in reducing regulatory burden across the State.”
Ms Keneally said the Better Regulation Office would provide Departments with a reporting template to standardise and simplify the information required.
Memorandum 2010-02 Red Tape Reduction – Director General Responsibilities supersedes Memorandum 2009-13.
10 February, 2010
Ombudsman kids not
on children reports
The NSW Ombudsman has issued a Practice Update for Agencies investigating allegations against staff relating to the child protection provisions of the Ombudsman Act 1974.
The Ombudsman, Bruce Barbour, said the update would help Agencies make appropriate findings following their investigation.
“At the conclusion of an Agency’s investigation of a reportable allegation, the investigator should present all evidence to the head of the Agency and make a recommendation about the outcome,” Mr Barbour said.
“The head of Agency should then assess the allegation and make a finding against each allegation, applying the civil standard of proof: ‘the balance of probabilities’.”
He said the more serious the allegation was, the greater the weight of evidence required.
The Ombudsman said the Agency only needed to be satisfied that it was more likely than not that the allegation was true in order to sustain it.
Mr Barbour said if there was reasonable justification to dismiss an employee, Agencies must ensure the correct employment dismissal procedures were followed.
“The head of Agency must assess the strength or weight of the evidence, when making a finding,” he said.
“However, the strict rules of evidence that apply in Court do not apply to Agency investigations of reportable allegations.”
Mr Barbour said any findings that were sustained should be reported to the Commission for Children and Young People (CCYP), together with any action taken to mitigate ongoing risks.
He said further information about rules of evidence and weighing evidence could be found in the guidelines, Child Protection in the Workplace: Responding to allegations against employees.
Under the guidelines, any finding which is not sustained or inconclusive but does provide some evidence that reportable conduct occurred should also be reported to the CCYP.
False findings, or those without sufficient weight of evidence, need not be reported.
The Practice Update could be accessed at www.ombo.nsw.gov.au
10 February, 2010
Agencies in pink
on Valentine’s Day
Government Agencies have put their hearts on their sleeves to get into the spirit of Valentine’s Day, both the Registry of Births, Deaths and Marriages and Roads and Traffic Authority getting in on the act.
The Registrar of BDM, Greg Curry has announced that 68 marriage ceremonies would be performed at the Registry Offices on 14 February, an increase of 39 since 2008 when just 29 couples exchanged vows.
The RTA has urged people to use the Day to ‘pink their rides’ by supporting breast cancer awareness.
According to Mr Curry, the BDM Registry is an affordable option for getting married any time of year, but has special significance on Valentine’s Day.
“We are a one stop shop,” he said.
“We provide all the ceremony planning, the venue, marriage officer and even the vows.
“Registry marriages are increasingly popular among couples. This is because we offer an elegant and inexpensive way to celebrate this important event.”
According to the RTA, motorists wishing to mark the Day in a special way can do so by supporting the breast cancer campaign and raise funds for the McGrath Foundation.
“This year we are encouraging people to pink their rides with pink number plates instead of buying the traditional gifts like roses or chocolates,” an RTA spokesperson said.
“Time is running out to order your Valentine the gift that keeps on giving with a portion of the proceeds from each number plate sold going to the McGrath Foundation.
The RTA urged husbands and boyfriends to get behind the cause and add a “touch of pink” to their girlfriend’s or wife’s car.
Executive Director of the McGrath Foundation, Tracy Bevan said motorists could personalise their numberplates with combinations such as 5WEET, PE66LE, BETT3R and S4R4H.
“Pink is definitely the new red this Valentine’s Day!” Ms Bevan said.
“So, if you’re looking for a gift this Valentine’s Day that is unique and stands out from the crowd, pink plates are it.”
10 February, 2010
DPC takes time out
for holiday ruling
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has issued a Circular confirming access to leave entitlements for staff wishing to observe religious duties in 2010 and detailing the approved dates of religious significance for the year.
Director General of the Department, Brendan O’Reilly urged all Chief Executives to distribute the list of dates to their staff.
Mr O’Reilly said the guide was provided by the Community Relations Commission of New South Wales and aimed to support the culturally diverse nature of the NSW Public Service workforce.
“Chief Executives are also asked to remind managers and supervisors to be sensitive in accommodating the needs of employees requiring access to their leave entitlements and flexible work hours for the purposes of observing religious duties,” he said.
Days of religious significance for which leave may be sought span a range of faiths including Christianity, Islam, Baha’i, Hindu, Judaism, Jehovah’s Witness, Buddhism and Zoroastrian.
Mr O’Reilly said employees must seek agreement from their manager to access leave for religious reasons.
He encouraged other Government organisations and State-owned corporations to put in place policies to accommodate religious practices.
Mr O’Reilly said the Personnel Handbook contained further information on staff entitlements and that the Days of Religious Significance for Multicultural NSW for the Year 2010 was available from www.dpc.nsw.gov.au
The new Circular 2010-09 supersedes Circular 2008-03.
10 February, 2010
Smallbiz website
does big business
A website for small businesses that attracted over 220,000 visitors in its first five months has been described as “encouraging” by the NSW Minister for Small Business, Peter Primrose.
Mr Primrose said the ‘smallbiz’ website was designed for people starting, running or growing a small business.
“The website has been well received and underscores the NSW Government’s commitment to ensure the State’s 678,000 Small and Medium Enterprises get access to top quality information, training and support,” he said.
“A feature of the website is its Small Business Tool Kit, which is particularly popular with around 30,000 unique visitors and 2,000 registered users to date.”
He said the Tool Kit provided small business owners with audio and video presentations, checklists, calculators, and real-life case studies giving tips and solutions for managing everyday issues such as cash flow and marketing.
“It also helps small business owners and operators prepare their business plans so they can hit the ground running,” Mr Primrose said.
The smallbiz website is supported by a network of 14 Business Advisory Service (BAS) providers operating through 39 offices across NSW.
“We understand that some prospective small business owners, particularly those in regional areas, want to meet someone face-to-face to find out what they need to do,” Mr Primrose said.
“The BAS offices are equipped to offer a range of advice and information to help small businesses to get up and running.”
The website could be accessed at www.smallbiz.nsw.gov.au
10 February, 2010
Commission Inquiry
ends in tiers
The Australian Law Reform Commission has called for a new tier of public enquiry to be established to provide an alternative to Royal Commissions.
Following a nine-month enquiry, the ALRC’s report Making Inquiries: A New Statutory Framework makes 82 recommendations for reform.
President of the ALRC, Professor Rosalind Croucher said a key recommendation was to amend the Commissions Act 1902 (Cth) and rename it the Inquiries Act to establish the two tiers of public inquiry - Royal Commissions and Official Inquiries, each with defined coercive and investigatory powers.
“Whenever there are controversial issues that cannot be satisfactorily dealt with by the Courts or the political process, there are inevitably calls for a Royal Commission,” Professor Croucher said, “although not all such issues warrant such an elaborate inquiry.”
“Royal Commissions should be reserved for the highest form of inquiry dealing with matters of substantial public importance, which may warrant the abrogation of certain privileges and protections, such as the right against self-incrimination.
“Official Inquiries would provide a more streamlined, cost-effective and flexible alternative to resolve matters of public importance, but which do not require extraordinary powers, such as those abrogating fundamental protections available to inquiry participants.”
She said other ALRC recommendations focused on openness and accountability including the publication of inquiry reports and monitoring resulting activities.
The ALRC also called for new legislation to ensure the prompt tabling of Royal Commission and Official Inquiry reports in Parliament; the publication of a summary of costs of Royal Commissions and Official Inquiries; and a framework for the protection of protected national security information utilised in proceedings.
Federal Attorney-General, Robert McClelland said the Commonwealth Government had commissioned the report following issues identified in the Report of the Inquiry into the Case of Dr Mohamed Haneef which needed more detailed exploration.
The ALRC report was available from www.alrc.gov.au
10 February, 2010
Sporting women get
sporting chance
Women involved in sport as administrators, managers, coaches or officials have been invited to apply for 15 scholarships to attend the 2010 World Conference on Women and Sport in Sydney this May.
Minister for Sport and Recreation, Kevin Greene said the scholarships were worth $1,000 each and consisted of one full early-bird conference registration (valued at $890) and $110 towards travel and accommodation expenses.
“We’re particularly interested in hearing from women who live in rural or remote areas of NSW as well as women from culturally diverse backgrounds,” Mr Greene said.
“The conference covers a wide range of topics like gender equality in financing and media, physical activity and health, sport and social change, and engaging Generation Y and Z in sport and physical activity.
“Those who attend will take the knowledge and skills they gain back with them to help improve women’s and girl’s sport in their communities.”
Mr Greene said the conference would be a high profile event that attracted some of the biggest decision makers in the world of sport, including members of the International Olympic Committee, National Olympic Committees, International Sport Federations and the United Nations.
He said up to five scholarships would be granted to Indigenous women and 10 would be awarded to the best applicants from the broader community.
“This is a great chance for women involved in sport in NSW,” Mr Greene said.
The conference is to be held from 20 to 23 May, with applications for the scholarships closing on 12 February.
Further information on applying was available from www.iwg-gti.org
10 February, 2010
Boating campaign is
lifeline for sailors
NSW Maritime has launched a month-long campaign to improve awareness among sailors of the safety requirements for boats on coastal waters.
The campaign, entitled Operation ‘Blue Water’, will run all through February and includes a program of safety checks by Boating Safety Officers.
Minister for Ports and Waterways, Paul McLeay said the campaign was driven by the alarming statistic that during 2009 there were 30 incidents involving vessels operating offshore.
Mr McLeay said the incidents included capsizing, colliding with a submerged object or another vessel, grounding, sinking and fires or explosions.
“Last year, five people died in offshore boating accidents and four suffered serious injuries,” he said.
“We want to ensure people have good boating practices so they can safely go out and safely enjoy our wonderful coast.”
Mr McLeay said while offshore boating was fun, skippers should ensure their crew understood the risks and that their boat was up to the challenge.
“It is vital that the skipper carries the correct safety gear, has fully functioning communications equipment and logs into the coastal radio network so the alarm can be raised if the boat fails to return,” he said.
Mr McLeay said small boats were often at the highest risk when crossing coastal bars, with the outgoing tide or low tide presenting the biggest danger.
He said further safety information for skippers, boating maps and navigational tools were available from www.maritime.nsw.gov.au
10 February, 2010
No fun in the sun for
tan-wise students
A Government campaign warning young people of the dangers of sun exposure looks to be having an impact, with a 2008 survey showing 35 per cent of NSW school students preferring to have no tan at all.
The figure compares with a finding of 25 per cent four years earlier.
The Premier, Kristina Keneally revealed the findings on World Cancer Day (4 February), saying they were based on a survey of 7,500 students aged 12 to 17.
Ms Keneally and the Minister Assisting the Minister for Heath (Cancer), Frank Sartor said education campaigns such as the Government’s Dark Side of Tanning melanoma campaign were contributing to a change in behaviour.
“Attitudes of teenagers towards getting burnt and having a tan are thankfully starting to change, but we need to be vigilant,” Ms Keneally said.
“Almost 500 people in NSW died from melanoma cancer last year and Australians have the highest incidence rate of this cancer in the world.
“The encouraging trend from this survey is that as awareness of the dangers associated with sun tanning grows, young people are becoming more sun smart and less likely to desire a tan.”
However, she said the figures also showed further work with school children and teenage girls in particular needed to be done to ensure they received the message.
Mr Sartor said while fewer students got sunburnt last summer than 10 years ago, 75 per cent of students were still spending too much time in the sun.
“The survey shows increases in the number of students seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, using sunglasses and sunscreen over the past six years,” he said.
“However, there have been continued declines in those who are wearing hats or staying indoors during peak UV periods.
“I am urging young people to put their health first and fashion second when it comes to covering up in the sun.”
Mr Sartor said sun protection education programs were widespread across NSW Government schools.
10 February, 2010
Report makes noise
about loud workplaces
Safe Work Australia has released a report dealing with the dangers of loud noise in the workplace.
The report, titled National Hazard Exposure Worker Surveillance Report: Noise Exposure and the Provision of Noise Control Measures in Australian Workplaces, was developed from the National Hazard Exposure Worker Surveillance survey.
Chair of Safe Work Australia, Tom Phillips said the report aimed to outline the demographic and employment characteristics of workers who reported exposure to loud noise.
Mr Phillips said the report also looked at the types of noise control measures that were provided in workplaces.
He said the study would help Governments and employers to produce better targeted occupational health and safety policies and campaigns to reduce the risk of workplace noise injuries.
“It is concerning that more is not being done to eliminate or reduce the exposure to noise in the workplace when occupational noise induced hearing loss is an entirely preventable but irreversible condition,” Mr Phillips said.
He said it had led to more than 3,600 workers’ compensation claims across Australia in 2007-08, amounting in $41 million in worker’s compensation payouts.
He said the report found that between 28 and 32 per cent of workers surveyed were likely to work in an environment where they were exposed to loud noise.
It found male workers were more likely to report exposure to noise than their female counterparts, while young workers were more likely to report exposure than older ones.
People who worked night shifts were also more likely to report being exposed to loud noises.
The worst industries for exposure were manufacturing and construction.
The report found that of the exposed workers, only 41 per cent said they had received training in noise injury prevention.
10 February, 2010
Families to lap up
visit to harbour park
The Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water is to open up Sydney’s historic Rodd Island this month for families to enjoy picnics, entertainment and historic displays.
Rodd Island is one of five harbour islands that are preserved as part of Sydney Harbour National Park.
In the early 1900s over 1,000 people visited Rodd Island every weekend to picnic, swim and play games away from the hectic pace of life on the mainland.
The Island is now hosting a new exhibition of historical photos and memorabilia to showcase its long and rich history.
Rodd Island’s dance hall, grottos, paths and bathing pavilions have been restored and native birds have returned, making it perfect for a Sunday picnic on the harbour.
Every Sunday in February a different program of activities for the whole family will be on offer at the Island.
The programs include guest entertainers, croquet, sack races and performances by the Sydney Puppet Theatre and Rhapsody Jazz Band.
There will also be historic displays and book-signings by Stephen Dando-Collins, author of Pasteur’s Gambit, a history of Rodd Island. The book was named after the Pasteur Institute which used the Island as a research centre during its search to rid Australia of rabbits during the late 1800s.
The scientist conducting the experiments was the nephew of Louis Pasteur, however he had a further use for the remote location and used it as a romantic rendezvous with the famous actress Sarah Bernhardt.
Over the past 150 years the Island has been a quarantine station, a US Army training depot and a pleasure-ground for the working classes of Balmain and Rozelle.
Places for the historic visits to Rodd Island are limited and bookings are recommended.
Ferries will depart from Birkenhead Point Wharf at 10.00am and 10.30am each Sunday in February and will return at 2.30pm and 3.30pm.
The cost for the day including transport and all entertainment is $25 per adult and $10 per child.
Further information was available from www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au
10 February, 2010
Website maps out
places of interest
New online maps of recreational parks, beaches, walking tracks and reserves around Sydney have been launched by the Premier, Kristina Keneally.
Ms Keneally said a new website had been set up to provide maps of locations across Sydney to make it easier for people to visit the outdoors and get more active.
“The Lower Prospect Canal Reserve, which incorporates a 5km shared bicycle and walking track, is just one example of a local recreational space that the whole family can enjoy,” Ms Keneally said.
She announced the Sydney Green Map website as she unveiled $2.4 million in grants to help Local Councils upgrade 17 Sydney parks.
She said $332,000 had been allocated to allow Ryde City Council to undertake work on foreshore trails linking Bennelong Park to Kissing Point Park and $220,000 would go to Blacktown City Council for a “Ropes Walk” recreation trail. Sutherland Shire Council would receive $175,000 for its Oak Park extension and Esplanade upgrade.
The Premier said the Government wanted to create a network of recreation trails from the eastern shores of the city to the base of the Blue Mountains.
“A lot of people, especially visitors to Sydney, simply don’t know about all of Sydney’s great walking tracks,” Ms Keneally said.
“The Sydney Green Map is a great resource that will unlock knowledge about some incredible natural spaces across the greater Sydney region.”
The website was available at www.sydneygreenmap.nsw.gov.au
10 February, 2010
Safety pack sprouts
for forestry workers
WorkCover NSW and Forests NSW are putting the final touches on a new safety regime for the State’s forestry industry which they expect will improve workplace health and safety and injury management across the industry.
The Ministers for Finance and Mineral and Forest Resources, Michael Daley and Ian Macdonald said the Forestry Industry Safety Pack was in its final stages of development.
Mr Daley said the pack would be presented to key stakeholders through a series of eight safety workshops that would be held across NSW during February and March.
He said WorkCover NSW and Forests NSW had consulted with public operators, employers and contractors in the forestry industry to identify and resolve key safety issues.
“WorkCover conducted a series of site visits between April and July last year to 25 hardwood and plantation operations across the State,” Mr Daley said.
“The site visits identified inconsistent implementation of work health and safety management systems and a need for more practical support in relation to hazard identification and general risk management practices.”
Mr Macdonald said the Forest Industry Safety Pack would establish a standard for work health and safety management across the industry.
He said the pack included guidance and practical tools to help the forestry sector implement a systematic approach to safety and injury management.
“I am confident this campaign will deliver positive long term outcomes in reducing injuries across this sector, while building the industry’s ability to manage workplace safety risks,” Mr Macdonald said.
“The advisory campaign demonstrates a shared commitment between the New South Wales Government and the industry to develop sustainable safety outcomes by reducing injuries and making businesses more productive.”
He said the upcoming workshops would provide the industry with an opportunity to comment on the new pack which will be formally launched later this year.
Further information on workshop times and locations was available from www.workcover.nsw.gov.au
10 February, 2010
Tourism taking
web 2.0 track
A new report conducted for NSW Tourism has found that using online social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter has led to increased business, feedback and more online traffic.
The report, Adoption of Web 2.0 by Tourism Businesses in NSW, revealed the adoption of social networking sites had also opened up new market segments to tourism businesses.
The report highlighted the use of networking sites by the Australian Museum as a positive example.
It said the Museum was an early adopter of Web 2.0 technologies, including social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr, and had integrated the technologies into its website in June 2009.
The Museum also provided users with the capacity to make comments, apply tags, blog and share multimedia files.
“The introduction of Web 2.0 to the website provided the Australian Museum with valuable, in-depth insight into their audience,” the report says.
“The comments contributed by users provided information about who the museum’s audience was, why they were engaging with the museum and what information they were interested in.
“Through the adoption of Web 2.0, the Australian Museum was finally able to create a snapshot of its audience,” the report says.
It found the Museum also benefited from financial savings, access to new markets and increased community engagement.
“The Australian Museum case study is a model of best-practice in the tourism industry,” the report says.
“The Australian Museum was innovative and proactive in its efforts to meet changing consumer demand.”
The report, which was commissioned by NSW Tourism and undertaken by Andrea Au. It could be accessed at www.tourism.nsw.gov.au
10 February, 2010
Tax hits back
on email attack
Internet users have been warned of a new email scam that claims to be from the Australian Taxation Office.
Assistant Federal Treasurer, Senator Nick Sherry said the emails used the lure of a tax refund to attempt to steal people’s personal information.
“This particular scam is quite sophisticated and uses convincing fakes of what could be easily mistaken for Australian Tax Office web pages,” Senator Sherry said.
He said the emails used the ATO’s logo, a false ATO email address as the sender, and included the words “tax refund” in the subject heading.
Senator Sherry said the email included the following text: “General information about e-tax, including the demonstration, benefits of using e-tax, computer and eligibility requirements, and security.”
He said there may be variations to the text but that the emails asked people to enter their email, name and date of birth to search for any refund owing.
The email then directs them to a bogus Tax Office website and asks for personal and credit card details.
He said reports indicated that the emails were being sent out in high volumes.
“Anyone who receives the email should delete it immediately,” Senator Sherry said.
“The Tax Office never sends emails asking people to provide personal information or credit card details.
“You should always be wary of unsolicited emails claiming to be from the Tax Office, particularly those that encourage you to follow embedded links to other sites.”
Senator Sherry advised anyone who had provided their credit card details on the site to contact their credit card provider.
Further information on the scam was available from www.ato.gov.au
10 February, 2010
Farm centre planted
to grow exports
A new farming research centre to be established on the Central Coast is expected to help NSW farmers produce crops with the minimal use of pesticides and to export their produce to new markets in Asia and beyond.
A joint Industry and Investment NSW project, the $5.9 million facility will be located at the University of Newcastle’s Central Coast campus and be completed by December this year.
The Premier, Kristina Keneally said research conducted at the centre would help NSW gain better access to markets such as Taiwan, the United States and Japan while reducing the use of pesticides.
“Once complete, this will be a leading Australian horticulture research facility helping farmers establish long-term and lucrative markets in Asia and other overseas markets,” Ms Keneally said.
“Due to research from this state-of-the art facility, NSW cherries will be going to Taiwan, peaches to the United States and nectarines to Japan.
“World-class researchers will be based here and will help to make new horticultural technology and best-practice more accessible to NSW farmers.”
She said the research would also help farmers increase their productivity, use less water when producing crops and produce “bigger and better vegetables.”
Ms Keneally said the new facility would build on the success of the Government’s existing program, the Primary Industries Institute in Gosford.
She said the program had resulted in the reopening of Australian trade with Taiwan for stone fruit and cherries, estimated to be worth $30 million.
10 February, 2010
Findings welcomed
The Government has welcomed findings handed down by the Independent Commission Against Corruption which cleared the head of the Department of Planning of corrupt conduct allegations.
Premier, Kristina Keneally said the Commission found none of the 13 allegations of corrupt conduct made against the Department of Planning were substantiated and that the Commissioner, David Ipp found there was “not a scrap of evidence” to support allegations made against the Department’s head.
“I am pleased to see that ICAC has set the record straight,” Ms Keneally said.
A transcript of Mr Ipps findings was available from www.icac.nsw.gov.au
New school opens doors
The new $20 million Kariong Mountain High School has been completed on time and on budget and will open its doors to students from 22 February
The school was built under the New Schools Public Private Partnerships Project and will focus on science subjects and specialist courses in horticulture, marine studies and zoology.
It features open-plan learning spaces, library, assembly area, games courts and covered walkways as well as state-of-the-art science, food technology, art, industrial arts and performance units.
Crackdown on pursuits
People who lead police on high-speed pursuits will face up to five years in jail under new laws that have been approved by Cabinet.
Repeat offenders will face five years in prison while first-timers will face three years, regardless of whether anyone is hurt.
Premier, Kristina Keneally said the new laws reflected community concerns about high-speed chases.
Sun targeted for safety
Safe Work Australia has released a new report on workers who are exposed to direct sunlight.
The report, National Hazard Exposure Worker Surveillance Report: Exposure to Direct Sunlight and the Provision of Sun Exposure Controls in Australian Workplaces, was written by the Cancer Council Victoria.
It found male workers were more likely to be exposed to sunlight, along with workers in industries such as agriculture, forestry, fishing construction and recreational services.
The report, the first national study on workplace ultraviolet radiation exposure from direct sunlight across all industries, is available from www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au
Mentors for youths
Twenty-two volunteer mentors have graduated from a Government funded program aimed at reducing recidivism rates among juveniles.
The volunteers completed training for the INSPIRE program, which targets youths who have been in contact with the State’s juvenile justice system by providing them with a mentor for 12 months.
The volunteers come from varied backgrounds, ranging from university students to retirees, and provide one-on-one support and guidance by helping the youths with a range of activities such as writing resumes, doing homework and finding a job.
Licence leniency
Reforms to reduce red tape for businesses that use explosive-powered tools or undertake formwork have come into effect.
From 1 February, businesses undertaking that type of work no longer require a WorkCover licence.
Formwork and explosive-powered tool competencies are included in the NSW Office of Fair Trading qualification requirements for general concreting and carpentry licences.
The changes bring NSW in line with all other Australian States which do not require businesses to have the additional licence.
Data no go
The Australian Communications and Media Authority has decided not to allocate a television channel for the datacast.
ACMA announced its policy when approving an extension to the Sydney datacasting trial service, which has been broadcasting data via radio waves since 2003.
The trial includes services such as National Indigenous television, the Australian Christian Channel and Teachers TV and has been extended to 30 April 2010.
Military centre turns 1
The Asia-Pacific Civil-Military Centre of Excellence in Queanbeyan has marked one year of operations.
The Centre’s mission is to support the development of national civil-military capabilities to prevent, prepare for, and respond more effectively to foreign conflicts and disasters.
In its first year the Centre established important links with regional bodies, the United Nations and other key international organisations.
3 February, 2010
Education DG reports
on school website
The Director-General of the Department of Education and Training, Michael Coutts-Trotter has welcomed the Federal Government’s My School website, but has advised parents to speak to school principals before making decisions about their child’s schooling.
Mr Coutts-Trotter said the data on the My School website did not measure all aspects of education, and that the literacy and numeracy NAPLAN test results used on the site were subject to some margin of error.
“If you are using My School to choose a school, or assess a school, please, don’t stop there,” he said.
“Call or visit the principal to discuss the school’s achievements, values and plans.
“They can give you a complete picture of what a school is doing – its extracurricular activities, sporting achievements, performing arts, debating, P&C involvement, teacher career development and much, much more.”
Mr Coutts-Trotter said My School provided a snapshot of each school in Australia, including a description of the school, its community, the number of students and teachers and student attendance rates.
However, he said the information provided on the site should be complemented by additional data.
“Through student reports, annual school reports, parent teacher talks, school websites and our own Departmental website, NSW public education provides parents and the community with information that goes well beyond what you will find on the My School site,” Mr Coutts-Trotter said.
He said My School meant that for the first time aspects of the performance of any NSW school could be compared with the average performance of all primary or secondary schools in Australia.
“You can compare schools that are similar to yours - schools where students come from similar backgrounds and live in similar areas, whether it is a bush community or an inner city suburb,” he said.
“This type of comparison continues to put proper pressure on me and everyone else who serves school children.”
He reminded My School users that school results could be affected by student backgrounds, the number of migrants with English as a second language and students with fewer opportunities than others.
Minister for Education, Verity Firth said My School was one of a range of resources available to parents to help them understand how their child and school were performing.
“The website will provide a link to the school’s annual report and parents can also gain information by meeting with the principal, through parent teacher meetings and by talking to people in their community,” Ms Firth said.
The website, www.myschool.edu.au reportedly attracted nine million hits on its first day.
3 February, 2010
New ticketing plan
is a fare result
A new public transport fare structure has been announced for the Greater Sydney region.
Unveiled by the Premier, Kristina Keneally and Minister for Transport and Roads, David Campbell, the new MyZone structure will apply across the CityRail, State Transit, Sydney Ferries and private bus networks in the region, including the Blue Mountains, Southern Highlands, Illawarra, Central Coast and the Hunter.
Ms Keneally said that under the new structure nine out of 10 fares would cost the same or be cheaper than before.
“More people are using public transport and MyZone is making it easier for us all to do so,” Ms Keneally said.
“MyZone means it will be easier for all of us to select the ticket that is right for our trip and to pay a fairer fare, right across Sydney and across different modes of public transport.”
The new system is based on distance travelled, with the fare bands condensed for rail travel from the current 20-plus down to five; and with the existing five bands used for bus and ferry travel whittled down to three and two respectively.
Mr Campbell said three new ‘all you can travel’ multi-modal passes would be introduced and would cover all three modes of public transport.
He said the MyMulti3 ticket allowed unlimited weekly travel on all buses, trains and ferries and was capped at $57 a week.
Mr Campbell said that for the first time, a MyBus TravelTen ticket could be used on private buses and State Transit buses, avoiding the need for two different tickets.
He said there would be increases to some ferry tickets and that a small minority of monthly rail tickets would increase by a maximum of $20.
Mr Campbell said significant discounts would be offered on monthly, quarterly and yearly tickets.
“Commuters want a simpler and easier way to travel,” he said.
“Today we are taking the important step of creating a simpler and easier fare structure.”
Mr Campbell said the new structure would be effective from 18 April.
Further information including new prices was available from www.myzone.nsw.gov.au or by phoning 131 500.
3 February, 2010
Circular rounds up
minor law changes
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has released a Circular outlining procedures for preparing miscellaneous amendments to laws proposed by Departments and Agencies.
The Circular says the program of regular statute law revision would continue in 2010 and that Statute Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bills would be prepared for each sitting of Parliament.
It sets out the principles and procedures to be observed to enable the timely preparation of the Bills for Parliament.
Director General of DPC, Brendan O’Reilly, signed off on the Circular which says that the Bills should contain only minor amendments that were non-controversial and no major policy changes.
It says the Bills can only contain a small number of amendments to one Act, proposals to repeal obsolete or unnecessary Acts, transfers of savings, and other revisions proposed by the Parliamentary Counsel.
Mr O’Reilly said there were a number of matters that were inappropriate for inclusion in the Statute Law Revision Program, including amendments to increase imprisonment or financial penalties; amendments that prejudiced the rights of any person; and amendments to Acts with controversial subject matter.
He said amendments that had been the subject of disputes between Agencies were also inappropriate.
Mr OReilly said Agencies should be aware of the procedures for submitting proposals or should find out from their Ministers.
“Requests for matters to be included in Bills should be drafted for the Minister’s signature and addressed to the Parliamentary Counsel,” he said.
“Requests should be accompanied by a Parliamentary briefing note of not more than one page per proposal.”
He said the briefing note should use plain English to outline the reason for the proposal, who proposed it, the context of the proposal and its implications.
“To facilitate preparation of Bills, Ministers should ensure that proposals from their Agencies are submitted to the Parliamentary Counsel as soon as the need for an amendment is identified,” he said.
Mr O’Reilly said proposals must be received by the Parliamentary Counsel by 17 April to be included in the Bill for the Budget Session of Parliament and by 17 September to be included in the Bill for the Spring Session.
“Proposals submitted after these dates will be considered for inclusion in the following Session’s Bill unless formally withdrawn,” he said.
The Circular could be accessed at www.dpc.nsw.gov.au
3 February, 2010
Taskforce seeks
truth on scams
The Australian Institute of Criminology is conducting an online survey into consumer fraud for the Australasian Consumer Fraud Taskforce.
The Taskforce has invited consumers to participate in the survey to help it obtain information on what scams people have received and how they responded to them.
It said gathering the information would help to improve the prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of scam offenders.
The Taskforce was founded in 2005 with the aim of reducing the number and impact of frauds and scams, and to create a yearly co-ordinated consumer information campaign.
It comprises 20 Government Agencies and Departments in Australia and New Zealand with responsibility for consumer protection, including the NSW Office of Fair Trading and the Police Fraud Squad.
The Taskforce said the online survey was part of this year’s awareness campaign and was voluntary and only took a few minutes to complete.
Responses will remain anonymous, will not be disclosed to third parties and will only be used for statistical analysis.
The survey includes questions on whether people have received particular scams, such as emails involving Nigerian money transfers or unsolicited notifications of lottery wins, and if and how they responded to them.
It also asks if people have ever disclosed personal details or sent money to the scammers.
The survey also looks at reasons for not responding to the scams or not reporting them to relevant Government Agencies.
The survey results are expected to be released later this year and to participate, visit www.aic.gov.au
3 February, 2010
DPC dresses up
for Women’s Day
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has issued a Circular urging Departments and Agencies to support International Women’s Day 2010.
Director General of DPC, Brendan O’Reilly said International Women’s Day would be celebrated on 8 March to recognise the achievements and contributions of women around the world. Mr O’Reilly said the theme for 2010, Empowering Women to End Poverty by 2015, highlighted the fact that women and girls represent 70 per cent of the world’s poor.
He said IWD 2010 would acknowledge that many women still disproportionately suffered the burden of poverty and discrimination because of their gender.
“Agencies are urged to promote International Women’s Day in 2010 and to encourage staff to attend functions and celebrate the day,” Mr O’Reilly said.
He said NSW Government Ministers, Local Members and members of the public had nominated women for the NSW Woman of the Year award, which acknowledges the outstanding contributions of women in NSW and the dedication they have for their communities.
“The winner of this prestigious award will be announced at the Premier’s International Women’s Day Reception on 8 March 2010,” Mr O’Reilly said.
He also reminded Agencies that the United Nations Development Fund for Women (UNIFEM) was again holding its annual IWD fundraising breakfast at Darling Harbour.
“This event attracts around 1,500 guests and raises funding to facilitate education, combat poverty and empower women both socially and economically,” Mr O’Reilly said.
3 February, 2010
NSW students
at top of class
A report on the effectiveness and efficiency of Government services across the nation has been released by the Federal Productivity Commission.
Report on Government Services 2010 was produced by a Steering Committee comprised of Senior Officials from State and Territory Governments as well as the Commonwealth and is the fifteenth edition of the report.
NSW Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth welcomed the findings, saying the report showed NSW students continued to achieve high results in literacy and numeracy.
“The NSW Government has a proven track record of delivering excellent results across the public school system,” Ms Firth said.
“We continue to have the lowest out-of-school costs of any State.
“Keeping the bureaucracy costs down ensures money is directed to where it is needed most - to the teachers and students in the classroom.”
The report showed NSW was among the top three performing jurisdictions for every year and subject in the National Assessment Program - literacy and numeracy (NAPLAN) and was the top State for students meeting the national minimum standard in Year 3 writing and numeracy.
Ms Firth said the report showed between 93 and 95 per cent of NSW students achieved the national minimum standard in reading in each year tested (NAPLAN).
She said it also showed the rate of NSW students from low socio-economic backgrounds completing Year 12 was the highest in Australia.
“These are exceptionally good results and we will build on these successes with a range of new initiatives to drive even more improvement,” Ms Firth said.
The report also showed apparent retention rates for all students in NSW were below the national average, however Ms Firth said the new school leaving age would help lift retention rates.
“In the biggest shift in education policy in 60 years, all students are now required to stay at school until the end of Year 10 and then continue in education, training or paid work until they turn 17,” she said.
The report also identified the need to bridge the gap between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students in reading, writing and numeracy.
The Steering Committee for the Review of Government Service Provision was chaired by the Chairman of the Productivity Commission, Gary Banks and included representatives of State and Territory Departments of Premier and Cabinet, Treasury, and Finance and the Federal Departments of Prime Minister and Cabinet, Treasury, and Finance and Deregulation.
The full report can be accessed at www.pc.gov.au
3 February, 2010
Defence under gun
to do more in NSW
A plan to attract more federal Defence contracts to build ships, submarines and other sea-based defences in NSW has been announced by the Premier, Kristina Keneally.
Ms Keneally said a new Maritime Capability Hub would be established in the State and key maritime defence sites such as Sydney, Newcastle and Nowra would be used in efforts to attract new Commonwealth Defence contracts.
“The Federal Government is expected to spend more than $300 billion over the next 20 years on maintaining and updating Defence systems and purchasing new technology in the biggest overhaul of our Defence force ever undertaken,” she said.
“We have a unique opportunity to secure a solid share of Army, Navy and Air Force contracts here in NSW.”
Ms Keneally said there were a number of upcoming contracts for the Navy, including two new submarines to replace the current six Collins Class submarines; enhancements to the weapons systems of three new Air Warfare Destroyers; and six new MRH-90 helicopters to replace the Sea King fleet based in Nowra.
“NSW has a strong history of supporting the Royal Australian Navy in developing and maintaining projects, including shipbuilding, component manufacturing and advanced systems,” she said.
Ms Keneally said a NSW Defence industry survey conducted last year revealed that companies operating in NSW generated over $1.2 billion in Defence work over the past year and employed over 7,000 people in Defence-related jobs.
“When you combine this with our world-class research and development capabilities, it is clear the NSW defence industry has the capacity and capability to meet the schedule, cost and technical requirements associated with the Commonwealth’s Defence upgrade,” she said.
Ms Keneally said the development of a Maritime Hub would be undertaken alongside the work being done by the Passenger Cruise Terminal Steering Committee, which is investigating berthing options for large cruise ships.
She said NSW would seek to secure 30 per cent of the Commonwealth’s domestic Defence spend within a decade and create more than 1,500 new jobs in Defence-related industries within four years.
The first step in the plan was the establishment of the Air Combat Capability Hub in
Newcastle which will see NSW play a central role in the delivery of new national aviation technology including the Joint Strike Fighter aircraft.
3 February, 2010
Post certified
for certificates
The Registrar of Births, Deaths and Marriages has announced that certificates can now be ordered from Australia Post in 10 regional NSW areas.
The Registrar, Greg Curry, said applications for certificates could be made at Australia Post outlets in Armidale, Bathurst, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Griffith, Lismore, Orange, Port Macquarie, Queanbeyan and Wagga Wagga.
Mr Curry said consumers in the regional areas would now have the convenience of Australia Post’s longer opening hours and would not have to go to their Local Court to order a birth certificate.
“Australia Post staff are already trained in assessing identification with the highest levels of privacy and security for Australian and UK passport applications so are capable of doing the same for straightforward certificate applications,” he said.
“At this stage, urgent or more complex applications still need to be made direct to the NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages, which is also the only issuer of commemorative certificates.”
Mr Curry said under the new system, applicants would pay a fee of $58 for a copy of a certificate, which also covered the costs of having the certificate sent to the applicant by registered mail.
National Manager of External Affairs for Australia Post, Alex Twomey said the organisation was delighted to be providing additional services.
“I am sure many of our regional customers will appreciate being able to apply for birth, death and marriage certificates at their local post office,” Mr Twomey said.
The certificate trial with Australia Post began on 14 December and is scheduled to be evaluated in May.
3 February, 2010
Schools to sustain
sustainability push
A focus on sustainability has been announced for NSW schools this year as the State’s 1.2 million students return to class.
The Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth welcomed teachers and students back to the classroom, saying the year would have an ‘environmental flavour.’
Ms Firth said the Government would invest $5 million over four years to engage staff and students in energy saving and greenhouse gas reduction projects in public schools and TAFEs.
She said initiatives would include new online resources and professional learning for teachers, an awards program, environmental themed events and activities for schools and online training in sustainability for all TAFE NSW staff.
“Through education we have a wonderful opportunity to raise awareness about how we can better protect the environment,” she said.
“This year, in the Year of Learning for Sustainability, we will promote the importance of environmental issues in every public school and TAFE Institute across NSW, as well as all NSW Department of Education and Training offices.”
Ms Firth said schools and TAFE Institutes would share sustainable education and management practices and explore ways for students and staff to contribute positively to the environment.
“This will include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, promoting sustainable water and energy use for the future.”
3 February, 2010
Boat safety in spin
over propellers
NSW Maritime has launched a campaign to warn of the dangers of boat propellers.
Entitled Take Care – Be Prop Aware, the aim of the campaign is to reduce boat propeller injuries.
Minister for Ports and Waterways, Paul McLeay said Maritime records showed five people had died and 46 had suffered injuries after being struck by a spinning propeller over the past six years.
“These injuries can be devastating,” Mr McLeay said.
“The fact they are preventable makes awareness of this issue vital. Propellers may be out of sight, and therefore out of mind, but the hazards are very real.”
He said the campaign aimed to remind skippers of basic safety tips such as keeping a proper lookout at all times, keeping clear of all swimmers and turning the engine off when near people in the water as propellers could continue to spin, even when in neutral.
Mr McLeay said skippers should consider wearing a lanyard kill-switch to stop the engine if they fell out of the boat and should ensure all passengers in the boat had their arms and legs inside the gunwales at all times.
“People who fall overboard are particularly at risk, especially those boating alone who may be run over by their own boat if they are not wearing an engine kill-switch lanyard,” he said.
Skippers are also reminded that bow riding or “teak surfing” (holding onto the back of a boat while it is underway) is illegal in NSW.
Mr McLeay said the area around the propeller should be considered a ‘hazard zone’ as a typical three-bladed propeller spinning at around 3,200rpm could make more than 160 impacts per second.
“A fast spinning boat propeller blade can travel from head to toe in an average person in less than one tenth of a second, causing multiple deep wounds,” he said.
“Boat propeller injuries, if not fatal, are usually severe and disfiguring, resulting in prolonged disability and permanent impairment.”
3 February, 2010
Law system reports
are all in the family
Three reports evaluating aspects of Australia’s family law system have been released by the Federal Attorney-General, Robert McClelland.
Mr McClelland said the reports focus on how the Family Law Courts deal with family violence cases and found that further progress was needed to ensure the cases were responded to effectively.
“The reports provide a comprehensive and objective analysis of the family law system against the aim of providing fair and sustainable solutions for families, while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children,” Mr McClelland said.
He said the Evaluation of the 2006 Family Law Reforms by the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) examined the impacts of changes to family law.
He said some of the changes included introducing shared parenting; requiring separating parents to attend family dispute resolution before Court; and establishing Family Relationship Centres to provide information, advice and assistance to families.
According to Mr McClelland, the AIFS report found the idea of shared parental responsibility was widely supported but often misunderstood to mean equal shared care time and had led to unrealistic expectations among some parents.
The AIFS reported that the majority of parents in shared care arrangements believed they were working well but identified concerns where an ongoing fear of violence existed.
The report also found there had been a shift away from using the Family Law Courts and that more separated parents were using dispute resolution services.
Mr McClelland said two reviews, Family Courts Violence Review, conducted by Professor Richard Chisholm and Improving Responses to Family Violence in the Family Law System, conducted by the Family Law Council, addressed the effectiveness of legislation and Court practices involving cases of family violence.
“The Government is committed to improving the family law system so that separated families can effectively access the help they need and disputes can be resolved in the best interests of children,” he said.
Mr McClelland said the Commonwealth Government would consider the findings and recommendations of the reports before responding.
Copies of the reports were available from www.ag.gov.au
3 February, 2010
Desal water sucked
into city supply
Sydney’s new water desalination plant has been officially commissioned and is now contributing 15 per cent of the city’s water.
Premier, Kristina Keneally said the plant was part of the Metropolitan Water Plan to secure a water supply for Sydneysiders into the future.
Ms Keneally said the facility’s current output of 55 million litres a day would gradually increase to the plant’s full capacity of 250 million litres per day over the coming months.
“Sydney’s Desalination Plant is on time and more than $60 million under budget,” Ms Keneally said.
“Importantly, this facility provides water that is 100 per cent independent of rainfall.”
She said water from the Desalination Plant was drawn into the system from Erskineville and is distributed to 1.5 million people across the Sydney CBD, inner west, eastern suburbs, southern Sydney, parts of the Sutherland shire and as far west as Auburn.
She said the plant was 100 per cent offset by wind energy, with a new wind farm now up and running at Bungendore, just outside Canberra.
“Sydney’s wind powered Desalination Plant will run for a two year proving period to ensure it is working,” Ms Keneally said.
“How the Desalination Plant will run after the two year proving period will be determined in the updated Metropolitan Water Plan due out this year, and will be based on factors including rainfall, climatic outlook and dam levels.
“We have some of the largest recycled water projects in Australia under construction or online across greater Sydney and we are on track toward the Metropolitan Water Plan target of producing 70 billion litres a year by 2015,” the Premier said.
3 February, 2010
New entries for
old register
A number of historically significant parks and buildings are to be placed on the State Heritage Register as part of celebrations to mark the 200th anniversary of Lachlan Macquarie’s swearing in as Governor of New South Wales.
Premier, Kristina Keneally said Sydney’s Macquarie Place, Richmond Park in Richmond and St John’s Church in Parramatta would be placed on the Register to mark the occasion and pay tribute to the contribution made by Governor Macquarie.
Ms Keneally said over 50 events were already planned for the Bicentenary, with more to come.
“It will be a year long program celebrating the great contribution Governor Macquarie made in the early history of our State,” she said.
Ms Keneally also announced that Macquarie Street, in the heart of the city centre, would come alive with light and audio displays each night for three weeks during May and June.
“Macquarie Visions will be part of Vivid Sydney 2010 and will tell the story of Governor Macquarie’s legacy showcasing a series of large-scale performance projections on the historical buildings and structures along Macquarie Street,” she said.
Committee Chairman of the Macquarie 2010 Bicentenary Commemorations, John
Aquilina said the festivities would give the community an opportunity to be part of an historic milestone.
“The extensive program of events celebrates the past, present and future through local activities and programs,” Mr Aquilina said.
He said highlights included an exhibition of Lachlan Macquarie’s personal letters, journals, maps and paintings at the State Library of New South Wales and
‘Opera in the Courtyard’, a performance of Beethoven’s opera, Fidelio.
A portrait of the former Governor, which was commissioned for seven guineas back in 1822, has also been restored in time for the celebrations.
The portrait is hung in the Windsor Court House and will be the centerpiece of a Hawkesbury Regional Gallery exhibition entitled Exploring the identity, achievement and legacy of Governor Lachlan Macquarie later this year.
3 February, 2010
Solid foundation for
building database
A new database designed to help researchers find information on the history of public buildings is now online.
The searchable database, Colonial (Government) Architect, has been created by NSW State Records and provides public access to records over 30 years old.
The database includes letters, reports, memos, plans, specifications, printed reports and returns regarding courthouses, lock-ups, watch-houses, police stations and other public buildings, lighthouses, wharves and bridges.
The records relate to the preparation of designs and plans, site selection, contracts, tendering, construction work, accounts and equipment and furniture.
According to the database website, most of the records relate to specific buildings such as schools, while a small number relate to internal administration and general policy.
A series of photos have also been digitised and include Departmental buildings such as the Lands Office Sydney and Government House, Court houses, hospitals, post offices and police stations.
A hardcopy guide to the database, Guide 19 – Government (Colonial) Architect 1837-c.1970, was also available from the State Records reading rooms.
The Government (Colonial) Architect’s Department was established in 1832 and was responsible for planning and supervising the construction and repair of public buildings.
State Records has encouraged users to provide feedback on the new database which was available at www.records.nsw.gov.au
3 February, 2010
Parks guide to show
off Great Lakes
The National Parks and Wildlife Service has published a guide to national parks in the Myall Lakes area south of Forster.
Great Lakes Area Manager for NPWS, Stephen Smith said the guide book, Myall Lakes - The GUIDE, combined practical information about park facilities and activities with interesting insights into wildlife and cultural heritage.
Mr Smith said the guide showcased the national parks in the Great Lakes area, focusing on Myall Lakes National Park.
He said the guide had been developed by local park Rangers.
“The guide makes it easier for people to plan their visit, and assists visitors to navigate their way, and enjoy all that is on offer in the parks in the Great Lakes area,” Mr Smith said.
“It includes detailed maps and practical information about camping and picnic facilities in an easy to read format.
“It also highlights the ‘top spots’ to visit and best spots to walk, boat, cycle, fish, watch wildlife and generally enjoy this stunning environment.”
He said the guide also revealed interesting insights into the area’s natural and cultural heritage.
“The guide is ideal for visitors to the Great Lakes or for local residents who would like to learn more about what the national parks in the area have to offer.”
Mr Smith said the guide was $10 and was available from the NPWS Great Lakes area office, the NPWS Hunter Region office or the NSW Government online shop: www.shop.nsw.gov.au
3 February, 2010
Judge points finger
at digital scammers
The Minister for Fair Trading has warned consumers to be alert for door-to-door salesmen claiming to be from the Government and selling digital television set top boxes.
The Minister, Virginia Judge, said scammers were telling residents they would get a Government rebate if they purchased one of their digital TV set-top boxes.
“Let me make this very clear - there are no reimbursements for digital television goods or services bought from any retailers, including door-to-door sellers,” Ms Judge said.
“The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has listed this scam on its SCAMwatch website and is warning consumers to avoid these scammers at all costs.”
Ms Judge said one Albury consumer had been pressured into having a set top box installed and was forced to sign a document allowing $60 to be debited from her account.
The set-top box didn’t work and the company associated with the sellers debited $6 from the consumer’s account every few days.
“The consumer tried unsuccessfully to cancel the contract but did manage to get the company to retrieve the box,” Ms Judge said.
“In the end, the consumer had to close the account and organise a reversal from the bank.”
Ms Judge said consumers shouldn’t be pressured into buying something without shopping around.
“Switching to digital television should be an inexpensive task,” she said.
“If you are unsure of what television products to buy, call the Digital Switchover Taskforce on 1800 201 013.”
Analogue free-to-air TV is being replaced with a digital service between 2010 and 2013.
Further information on reporting a scam was available by phoning 13 32 20.
3 February, 2010
Ombudsman explains all
The role and functions of the NSW Ombudsman’s office will be explained to residents of Bankstown during the Bankstown Lunar New Year Festival on 6 February.
NSW officers are to run a joint information stall with the Commonwealth Ombudsman to answer questions from members of the public.
Over 20,000 people are expected to attend the festival which is organised by the Bankstown City Council.
Back-to-school hotline
A new Government hotline offering advice to parents, carers and guardians about how to prepare for the new school year has been announced.
The hotline, 1300 738 338 will operate on weekdays between 8.30am and 4.30pm until 12 February.
The service will provide advice on topics such as uniforms, school fees and homework.
Air checks in the wind
Airservices Australia will be visiting regional and remote areas of Australia this month to check on around 500 pieces of navigational equipment at airports, aerodromes and airstrips.
The routine checks, conducted on a three-year rotational basis, will be undertaken by the Flight Inspection Service, a specialised air crew.
The data collected will be analysed by Airservices maintenance and engineering specialists to ensure navigation aids are operating accurately.
Reggie is top dog
Reggie the dog is the new face of the Centennial Parklands after winning the recent Dog Photo competition.
Reggie (and his owner, Jo Bayley) topped the many entries to win the competition and will feature on the forthcoming Dogs in the Parkland brochure.
All entries in the competition could be viewed at the Centennial Parklands Facebook page.
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