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SearchArchives for June 2009
24 June, 2009
Dossier on table for
Information Office
Reforms to Freedom of Information laws that would allow the appointment of an Information Commissioner have been introduced into the NSW Parliament.
Premier, Nathan Rees said the legislation aimed to make the Government more open, transparent and accessible to the public.
Mr Rees said $3 million had been committed to establish the new independent Office of the Information Commissioner.
“The Commissioner will have the power to direct Government Agencies to provide the office with information, documents and records, to enter into premises to inspect records, and to call witnesses for the purposes of formal inquiries,” he said.
“The Office will review decisions of Agencies about releasing information and will report to Parliament on compliance with the legislation.”
Mr Rees said the Information Commissioner would be “dedicated” to ensuring Agencies understood and complied with their obligations under the new laws.
He said three new Bills had been introduced to Parliament to reform FOI legislation.
The Government Information (Public Access) Bill is to replace the FOI Act and promote disclosure of information; the Government Information (Information Commissioner) Bill is to establish the new body; and the Government Information (Public Access) (Consequential Amendments and Repeals) Bill will amend and consolidated related legislation.
Attorney General, John Hatzistergos said the interaction of privacy and Freedom of Information was being examined by the NSW Law Reform Commission, which had supported the Office of the Information Commissioner being established separately from the Ombudsman.
“As we improve openness and accountability, we must ensure that the right of access to Government information is balanced against the right to privacy,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
“As part of the future reform of privacy legislation, the Government intends to bring the Privacy Commissioner and the Information Commissioner together within a single office.”
He said the new body had also received support from the Privacy Commissioner and the Law Society of NSW.
The NSW Ombudsman said the Bills fulfilled most of the recommendations made in its review of the FOI Act.
A copy of the review was available from www.ombo.nsw.gov.au
24 June, 2009
Tax moves goalposts
for new super rules
Public Service staff are being warned that from the 2010 financial year, most extra employer super payments (including salary sacrifice) will be included on group certificates.
These payments will be included in income tests that affect a range of tax and Centrelink benefits.
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has issued a Circular to be brought to the attention of all staff, warning that the changes may affect the eligibility of some to access certain social security benefits.
Director-General of DPC, John Lee said in the Circular that the introduction of Reportable Employer Superannuation Contributions (RESCs) would not alter an employee’s assessable or taxable income.
“However, it may affect an employee’s tax liability if they lose eligibility for a tax offset,” Mr Lee said.
Under the changes, extra contributions made for employees, including salary sacrificing arrangements, must be reported on payment summaries (formerly Group Certificates) along with any reportable fringe benefits.
According to the Australian Taxation Office however, contributions from an employee’s after-tax income are not considered to be RESCs.
The ATO defines RESCs as superannuation contributions made for them by their employer over and above the compulsory contributions made under super guarantee law or as a result of an industrial agreement, trust deed of a super fund or a Federal, State or Territory law.
The ATO said that in most cases, only employees who directly negotiate extra superannuation contributions from their employers might be affected.
“If (an employer) makes an employer contribution to a super fund for an employee and the amount would have otherwise been income, it is a reportable employer super contribution,” the ATO’s website says.
“If you can show that it was a compulsory contribution or it was not influenced by your employee, part or all of the contribution will not be a reportable employer super contribution.”
It says, for example, that if an organisation’s standard rate of super is 12 per cent and employees cannot influence this, it would not be reportable. In addition, if extra superannuation is paid for administrative simplicity it is not considered to be a RESC either.
According to the Tax Office, the benefits and obligations that may be affected include Centrelink, Family Assistance Office and Child Support payments, as well as:
Medicare levy surcharge threshold calculation
Medicare levy surcharge (lump sum payment in arrears) tax offset
Dependency tax offsets
Senior Australians tax offset
Pensioner tax offset
Mature age worker tax offset
Spouse superannuation contributions tax offset
Government super co-contribution
Deduction for personal superannuation contributions
Higher Education Loan Program and Student Financial Supplement Scheme repayments.
DPC advises Agencies to check with their payroll administrators to ensure their system complies with the new rules when they come in at the end of the 2009-10 financial year and suggested they may also need to discuss compliance issues with their payroll software provider.
Further, Agencies will be required to issue a payment summary where a RESC is made even if the employee has not been paid a salary or wage.
Mr Lee said employees may wish to review their Pay-As-You-G withholding arrangements to ensure the tax withheld from salary or wages is sufficient to meet any changed liability.
“Employees who wish to make changes to their salary sacrifice arrangements should contact their employer’s payroll provider,” Mr Lee said.
Further information is available at www.ato.gov.au (search “reportable employer superannuation contributions”) or by calling 13 10 20.
The Circular is available from the DPC website www.dpc.nsw.gov.au
24 June, 2009
Secrets safe with
privacy guide
The NSW Privacy Commissioner has urged Departments and Agencies to update their Privacy Management Plans to incorporate the Health Records and Information Privacy Act 2002.
The Commissioner has released a new publication entitled A Guide to Making Privacy Management Plans to assist in the preparation or amendment of plans to incorporate the HRIP Act.
The guide addresses which areas of compliance the management plans have to address, including information protection principles, health information principles, codes of practice, internal reviews, public registers, training and education.
The Commissioner reminded Agencies to consider the implications of a Privacy Code of Practice if they were already operating under a section 41 direction of the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act or a section 62 direction under the HRIP Act.
It advised Agencies to forward a copy of their amended Privacy Management Plan to Privacy NSW as soon as possible, as consistent with the objectives outlined in the PPIP Act.
The Commissioner also advised Agencies to place their completed plans on their websites and have hard copies available for interested members of the public after receiving feedback on their plan from Privacy NSW.
The Privacy Commissioner said Agencies could enlist the help of privacy consultants to help them prepare their new plans.
Further information on recommended privacy consultants and a copy of the guide were available from www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au
24 June, 2009
Bright blueprint for
Planning Department
More resources and extra capacity are on the cards for the Department of Planning with the Minister, Kristina Keneally announcing a four-year, $26.5 million initiative to increase the efficiency of the planning system and to set up a new Project Delivery Branch.
Ms Keneally said the funding would support jobs, housing growth and Local Councils.
“The funding will support delivery of outcomes from the Jobs Summit and help the NSW Government build the best planning system in Australia,” she said.
Ms Keneally said $12 million would go towards establishing the Project Delivery Branch within the Department of Planning to drive jobs growth and investment.
“The Branch will be responsible for increased efficiency in the assessment of major projects, comprehensive Local Environmental Plans, rezonings and strategic projects,” she said.
Ms Keneally said $6 million would help establish an Employment Team within the Department to assist in the speedy identification and development of employment land.
“This team will also be used to identify new centres around key transport nodes, business and technology parks and industrial land,” she said.
“These initiatives represent a proactive and efficient response to industry demands for a planning system that works efficiently and effectively and provides the opportunity for investment.”
Ms Keneally said the two initiatives would ensure a more timely schedule of land releases and approvals for employment and housing land.
She said the budget also allocated $8.5 million for the continued implementation of improvements to the planning system.
Ms Keneally said the Department would receive an additional $10.95 million to administer projects such as the Heritage Assistance Grants, the Coastline Cycleway Program and upgrading the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre.
24 June, 2009
Ferry figures
rock the boat
Sydney Ferries has rejected claims it was running at three-quarter strength, confirming instead that its reliability figures were over 99 per cent.
The statement from Sydney Ferries came after reports in the Sydney Morning Herald that in the 24 months between July 2006 and June 2008, Sydney Ferries were running, on average, only 75 per cent of its fleet.
The data was obtained under Freedom of Information laws by the NSW Opposition.
However, spokesperson for Sydney Ferries, Scott Maclean, said the figures gave an unrealistic account of Sydney Ferries’ performance improvement over the past year.
Mr Maclean questioned why old performance statistics had been released when current figures on the Sydney Ferries website confirmed service reliability was at 99.6 per cent and fleet availability was at 86 per cent in May 2009.
“There is no value in looking at old statistics that include the unreliable Manly JetCat,” he said.
“We recognised the JetCat was unreliable and its removal from service is reflected in the up to date performance statistics.”
Mr Maclean said over the past 18 months Sydney Ferries had undertaken a “significant self reform program” that had resulted in “improvements in performance due to the commitment of a fully serviced and professional workforce”.
“Sydney Ferries has also just agreed new work conditions for its maritime staff that will ensure further service improvements,” he said.
Mr Maclean said Sydney Ferries would launch a new campaign to showcase its monthly performance results on the internet, as well as wharves and vessels.
Further information on the performance results was available from www.sydneyferries.info
24 June, 2009
HealthQuest fails
fitness test
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has issued a Circular setting out the new arrangements to apply following the dissolution of HealthQuest.
As a statutory health corporation under the Health Services Act 1997, HealthQuest’s role was to advise Public Service employers about their employees’ fitness and whether they should be medically retired.
The circular, C2009-21 Transitional Arrangements Following Dissolution of HealthQuest, was issued by Director General of DPC, John Lee.
Mr Lee said HealthQuest had stopped appointments and that a panel contract for new health providers was being established.
“A permanent panel contract is being established through the Department of Commerce to provide services previously available through HealthQuest,” he said.
“Transitional arrangements have been agreed with Public Sector unions to manage the transition from HealthQuest to alternative health providers.”
Mr Lee said if an assessment had already commenced it would be completed by current physicians from HealthQuest, and that employees would be given 21 days to seek a review.
He said as not all Agencies were required to use HealthQuest, the transitional arrangements only applied to those who had to use HealthQuest under legislation, industrial instrument or its revised fitness to continue procedures.
“The majority of assessments performed by HealthQuest relate to ‘fitness to continue’,” Mr Lee said.
“Other services including those relating to medical certificates or pre-employment assessments may also be referred to alternative providers.”
He said Agencies should select from a selection of occupational physicians on WorkCover’s list of approved assessors for permanent impairment of from those nominated by the Director of Public Employment.
Mr Lee said Agencies should select from the list on the basis of appointment availability and the location of the physician in relation to the employee.
A review of the M2001-11 Revised 'Fitness to Continue' Procedures circular is being undertaken.
New guidelines are expected to commence when providers are selected through the panel contract process.
24 June, 2009
Law of land brings
DPP staff together
Staff of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions are to be brought together in the same building this year at a cost of $13.2 million.
The move is part of a program to improve legal services in NSW.
Attorney General, John Hatzistergos said staff were currently located at three separate locations and would be united at the former American Express building on Liverpool Street.
“The ODPP is currently located in three separate offices around the Sydney CBD; in Castlereagh, Pitt and Elizabeth Streets,” Mr Hatzistergos said.
“Bringing the staff together under one roof will integrate the ODPP's crown prosecutors with solicitors and support staff, and help make the office run more effectively and efficiently.”
Mr Hatzistergos said the Auditor General had recommended the ODPP take a “cradle-to-grave” approach which would require prosecutors and solicitors to work closely together for the duration of their cases.
He said the move would take place in stages between July and November, depending on the expiry date of leases for the current buildings.
Mr Hatzistergos said while the funding had been secured through the NSW budget, the ODPP was not the only Agency to benefit.
He said funds would also go towards implementing the Remote Witness Program ($6 million), Legal eServices ($5.7 million) information sharing systems between justice Agencies ($3.7 million) and upgrading NSW Courthouses ($12.6 million).
24 June, 2009
Wave of support for
SES tsunami role
The State Emergency Service has been officially recognised as NSW's first line of response in the event of a tsunami reaching the coastline.
Minister for Emergency Services, Steve Whan, said the Government had amended the State Emergency Service Act to reflect the Service's role in tsunami planning and response.
Mr Whan said the SES was NSW’s designated “combat agency” responsible for tsunami in a logical extension of its expertise in flood planning and response.
“The SES was responsible for the development of the NSW Tsunami Plan…and has been a consistent and committed participant in the Australian Tsunami Working Group for four years,” he said.
“The SES, supported by the Australian Bureau of Meteorology and Emergency Management Australia, has also in recent years delivered a series of tsunami update briefings to all coastal emergency management Agencies.
“As a result of its efforts, tsunami planning in this State is now well advanced.”
Mr Whan said under the NSW Tsunami Plan, the SES would lead the development of warning systems, develop education plans, control response operations and direct evacuations.
He praised staff for their dedication and recent success in Exercise Ausnami, a test of the Australian Tsunami Warning System (ATWS).
The training exercise simulated a 9.0 earthquake in the Pacific that would affect the east coast of Australia.
“The success of the exercise shows the SES is able to work effectively with other key Agencies involved with tsunami including Geoscience Australia, the Bureau of Meteorology and the Federal Attorney-General's Department,” Mr Whan said.
“The volunteers and staff of the SES are well known for their hard work and commitment to the people of this State.
“Members of the NSW community can be assured that in the unlikely event of a tsunami affecting the coastline the SES has the capacity to respond.”
Mr Whan said the head of the SES would also be renamed as Commissioner rather than Director General to bring the SES into line with other emergency services.
24 June, 2009
Gold medals for
Olympic Park
A number of projects at the Sydney Olympic Park have been successful in the
Australian Institute of Architects NSW Chapter Architecture Awards.
The Armory Wharf Precinct on the Parramatta River won the Architecture Award in the Urban Design category, while the Armory Wharf Cafe building took out the top award in the Commercial Architecture category.
Sydney Olympic Park’s new town centre, Jacaranda Square, was awarded a Commendation in the Urban Design category.
Chief Executive Officer of Sydney Olympic Park Authority, Alan Marsh congratulated the winning architects on their success.
Mr Marsh said the recently completed projects had made a wonderful contribution to Sydney Olympic Park.
“These projects were commissioned by Sydney Olympic Park Authority to support the continued growth of Sydney Olympic Park into a new, modern township and enhance the experience of people working in and visiting the precinct,” he said.
Mr Marsh said the projects demonstrated the Authority’s commitment to creating a “high quality, sustainable urban domain” at Sydney Olympic Park for visitors, workers and residents that would stay at the Park in the future.
He said the Armory Wharf Precinct and Cafe, and Jacaranda Square would now be judged against other state winners at the Australian Institute of Architects National Awards in October 2009.
‘”I wish our architects success at the national awards in October,” Mr Marsh said.
24 June, 2009
Pressure down on
Sydney water use
The water restrictions that have affected Sydney for the past five years have been lifted and replaced by a set of ‘Water Wise Rules’.
Minister for Water, Phil Costa said the restrictions had been lifted following consideration of storage levels, rainfall forecasts and additional water sources such as desalination and recycling.
Mr Costa said Sydney’s dam levels had been rising over the past year and that 20 recycling schemes were in place across greater Sydney that recycled around 25 billion litres of water per year.
He said the new rules had come into effect from 22 June and would allow residents in Sydney, the Blue Mountains and Illawarra to use more water while still maintaining a common sense approach.
“These few simple rules reinforce the importance of using water responsibly and minimising waste,” Mr Costa said.
“We know the days of wasting water are gone - Water Wise Rules are a simple set of water saving measures which replace drought restrictions.”
He said the rules would give people more flexibility when maintaining gardens and managing water around their homes.
Mr Costa said under the new rules, businesses such as nurseries and landscaping companies would no longer have to apply for exemptions to access the water they need.
“Water Wise Rules set in concrete the responsible practices that are now common place across Greater Sydney,” he said.
“Continuing to use water wisely will make a big difference in securing our water supply for generations to come.”
Previous Level Three restrictions included hand held watering on specific days, permits to fill swimming pools and no hosing of hard surfaces.
The new Water Wise Rules allow hand-held hoses, sprinklers and watering systems to be used on any day before 10am and after 4pm.
The new rules allow children to play under the sprinkler on a hot day, vehicles to be washed using a trigger nozzle, fire hoses for fighting fires and allow hard surfaces to be hosed in case of emergency or safety needs.
Mr Costa congratulated the community on their effort to save water in the past.
“Water efficiency measures like dual flush toilets and water efficient taps and showers will continue to minimise Sydney’s water needs into the future,” he said
Mr Costa said fines of $220 for individuals and $550 for businesses applied for breaches of the Water Wise Rules.
24 June, 2009
Internet plan for
twittering classes
An innovative campaign using social internet sites to promote Sydney has been unveiled by Tourism NSW.
Executive Director and General Manager of Tourism NSW, Lyndel Gray said the campaign utilised Facebook, MySpace and Friendster to deliver video coverage of local summer events.
Ms Gray said the campaign promoted events such as the Sydney Festival, Chinese New Year and Mardi Gras to audiences across the world.
“Tourism NSW is taking a fresh and innovative approach to generating interest and awareness in Sydney as a ‘must visit’ destination to international audiences,” she said.
“The online videos capture the excitement, diversity and thrill of Sydney’s first annual Vivacity Festival, which ran from New Year’s Eve to Chinese New Year.”
Ms Gray said since the videos were first posted a few weeks ago, over 50,000 people had viewed them.
The campaign will run until 30 June and uses social media channels to promote short versions of each web video before inviting users to view more content from Tourism NSW on YouTube.
Ms Gray said Tourism NSW established its YouTube channel to be the focal point for all new web based video.
“Videos profiling the Autumn Racing Carnival, and for the VIVID Sydney Festival in June and the CRAVE Sydney in October will also be added to the channel to showcase internationally the best that Sydney has to offer all year round,” she said.
“It is vital we continue to look at new and exciting ways we can promote Sydney internationally, particularly to the Facebook and YouTube generation.”
Visit the site at www.youtube.com/seesydney
24 June, 2009
New ambulances
stretch services
A new generation of ambulance vehicles has been rolled out on the Central Coast allowing patients to be treated in their own homes rather than transported to busy Emergency Departments.
Minister for Health, John Della Bosca said the vehicles would help alleviate the pressure on local Emergency Departments.
Mr Della Bosca said the new $65,000 mini-ambulance was the first of 10 that would be introduced across the State this year.
“These vehicles are a part of NSW Ambulance’s Extended Care Paramedic initiative and were developed by paramedics for paramedics,” he said.
“These ambulances attend to patients with minor injuries and illnesses such as lacerations and wounds, sporting injuries, falls and minor back pain.”
Mr Della Bosca said the ambulances were also mobile offices and featured mobile telephones, computers and printers.
Member for Gosford, Marie Andrews said during a trial of the ambulance on the Coast it had responded to 101 requests for assistance with 40 per cent of patients not needing to be transported to an Emergency Department.
“The cases it has been responding to include patients with catheter problems, wound assessments and care and falls,” Ms Andrews said.
She said treating patients at home meant they would not have to wait while more seriously ill and injured patients got treated.
The new ambulances carry extra specialist equipment and medicines than standard vehicles such as wound care kits, pregnancy test kits, intra gastric tubes, splinting kits, peak flow meters for assessing asthma attacks and drugs not used by standard care ambulances.
Mr Della Bosca said NSW Health had trained 22 ambulance Extended Care Paramedics to assess and treat patients without attending Emergency Departments.
“The Garling Report into NSW public hospitals advises we need to do more to alleviate the pressure from our Emergency Departments,” he said.
“Providing treatment on the spot in people’s homes is one way of achieving this.”
24 June, 2009
Grass greener on
park committee
The National Parks and Wildlife Service has invited people passionate about national parks and conservation to nominate for the NPWS North Coast Region Advisory Committee.
NPWS Regional Manager, Alan Jeffery said the recruitment drive was part of an ongoing process to tap into community knowledge and expertise to guide the future of national parks.
Mr Jeffery said the Committee would advise NPWS on the care and management of national parks and other reserves.
“Committees help NPWS to ensure an ongoing community and neighbour involvement in their operations and play an important role as a point of contact for the broader community to communicate ideas and issues relating to conservation,” he said.
“Advisory committee members also help NPWS to understand community needs which guide the provision of appropriate services and community facilities.”
Current Committee Chair, Barbara Fahey said the North Coast Region Advisory Committee was particularly looking for younger members of the community to become members.
Mrs Fahey urged anyone interested in becoming a volunteer to get an information kit or view the website.
“The current Committee has been strongly involved in the adoption of plans of management for 12 reserves in North Coast Region over the last year, as well as building relationships with Local Government and Aboriginal communities,” she said.
Mrs Fahey said being part of the Advisory Committee was fulfilling and a great opportunity to make a real difference to local environmental issues.
The North Coast Region stretches from Iluka in the north to Scotts Head in the Nambucca Valley and includes World Heritage rainforests and long stretches of protected coastline.
Committee members are to be appointed by the Minister for Climate Change and the Environment, Carmel Tebbutt for a four year period from 1 January 2010.
Further information was available from www.environment.nsw.gov.au/npws, with applications closing 30 June 2009.
24 June, 2009
Rare plates drive
auction price up
An auction of rare number plates by the Roads and Traffic Authority has raised $2.4 million for the RTA and nearly $20,000 for charity.
General Manager of the Special Number Plates division of the RTA, Geoff Drummond said the Authority had hosted a ‘choose your own’ rare plates auction.
Mr Drummond said the sale of three ‘choose your own’ plates, the first ever pink, numeral-only plate and 45 number plates with rare three, four and five digit combinations had helped make up the $2.4 million dollars.
“The highest bid of $115,000 was for the three-digit plate number 215, with the same bidder also snapping up number 214 for $110,000,” he said.
“The total amount raised at this auction has far surpassed any expectations with bidders taking the opportunity to buy investment pieces for the future.”
Sydney lawyer, Stephen Aroney bought the only pink, numeral-only numberplate in NSW as an investment for his three-year-old daughter.
“I’m thrilled to own the only pink numeral plate in NSW and to have contributed to a worthy cause,” Mr Aroney said.
“I plan to keep it as a family investment and hand it down to my three-year-old daughter when she is old enough.”
Mr Drummond said the pink plate sold for $74,000, with 25 per cent being donated to the McGrath Foundation.
Managing Director of the McGrath Foundation, Kylea Tink said the result was fantastic and the $18,500 would help fund breast cancer awareness in young women.
“I’d particularly like to thank the RTA and Mr Aroney for their generous support,” Ms Tink said.
The highest bid for one of the ‘choose your own’ four digit plates was $60,000.
“The freedom to be able to choose your own combination was clearly one of the most sought after items,” Mr Drummond said.
Further information was available from www.myplates.com.au
24 June, 2009
Playground upgrades
swing into action
A program of upgrading children’s playgrounds across NSW will see 45 revamped by Local Government Councils in the coming year.
Minister for Local Government, Barbara Perry said the NSW Government had provided Local Councils with almost $900,000 in grants to improve playgrounds in their area.
Ms Perry said Councils received grants of up to $20,000.
“Fun, interesting and practical outdoor spaces that encourage young children to be active outdoors cannot be undervalued,” she said.
“Local communities will benefit from these soon-to-be improved outdoor areas which will in turn encourage young children to participate in a healthy lifestyle.”
Ms Perry said successful grant submissions included plans for playgrounds with equipment for children with special needs and playgrounds with fitness equipment for sporting teams.
“The playground refurbishments will also see the establishment of shade structures, maintenance work and the installation of new play equipment,” she said.
Ms Perry said the 45 grants were from the second round of funding from the NSW Government’s Local Government Playground Grants program.
In the first round, 57 Councils received a total of $1,115,507 in grants.
“Thanks to the playground grants scheme, 102 children’s playgrounds across NSW will be revived,” Ms Perry said.
“Additional funding will be provided to complement this from Local Councils.”
Councils set to receive grants under round two include Coffs Harbour, Gosford, Blue Mountains, Willoughby and Young.
For a complete list of grants, visit www.dlg.nsw.gov.au
24 June, 2009
Prepaid bus stops
just the ticket
The Minister for Transport has announced that all bus stops in the Sydney CBD are now prepaid.
Mr Campbell said the conversion of the bus stops to prepaid had been completed ahead of schedule.
“All State Transit buses across the CBD are prepay-only between 7am and 7pm, Monday to Friday,” he said.
“The final part of the CBD to go prepay is the Elizabeth Street corridor and Eddy Avenue.”
Mr Campbell said on average, it took around eight seconds longer to buy a ticket on a bus, compared to the three seconds it took to dip a prepaid ticket.
“That means buses are moving through the city much faster,” he said.
Mr Campbell said concession TravelTen tickets would be expanded to make it easier for pensioners to use prepay for their everyday journeys after they asked for a TravelTen ticket for single trips.
“Of course the $2.50 Pensioner Excursion Ticket is still available when people want to make several trips across a day, but the concession TravelTen will allow pensioners to have a prepaid, single ticket on hand when they need it for short journeys,” he said.
Mr Campbell said providing an additional ticket option for pensioners would help make the transition to prepay smoother.
He said people could buy their tickets from over 140 outlets across the CBD.
“We have seen a great surge in the number of single ride, adult and concession tickets, including pensioner excursion tickets, sold by resellers in the city,” Mr Campbell said.
“At some outlets, ticket sales have increased by more than 300 per cent.”
Further information was available from www.131500.info or by phoning 131500.
24 June, 2009
Housing extends outreach
Housing NSW is to extend its outreach service in the inner west to make it accessible to more people.
Housing NSW tenants, prospective clients, homeless people, the elderly and the disabled are expected to benefit, with the service frequency at Newtown Neighbourhood Centre extended from once a month to twice a week; a weekly service to commence at the Marrickville Town Hall; and a monthly service commencing in Rozelle.
New Geoscience Institute
The University of Newcastle and the Government are to join forces to establish a NSW Institute for Frontier Geoscience.
The Institute will enhance research and teaching in Earth Sciences at the University, with a special focus on exploring the carbon sequestration industry.
Help for debt repayers
New legislation to reduce financial hardship for people repaying debts will see the protected wage amount increase by 25 per cent from $305.12 to $381.40 per week.
The legislation will apply to those who have debt repayments deducted from their wages following Court orders.
The protected amount is minimum amount protected from a garnishee order which allows a creditor to automatically receive part of a debtor’s salary.
Island burning postponed
The NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service has postponed a burning operation planned for Montague Island Nature Reserve due to unfavourable weather conditions.
The operation has been postponed for a year after wet weather ruined the NPWS’s attempts to clear the 1.5 hectare area by burning to allow 10,000 native seedlings to be planted.
The Agency said the window of opportunity for the prescribed burning was very narrow and the area had to first be cleared of penguins. The seedlings will be stored for 12 months.
Olympic Park partnership
The Sydney Olympic Park Authority has partnered up with the Sydney Symphony to help around 3,000 students from western Sydney experience classical music.
The Sydney Symphony’s mentoring orchestra performed six concerts at Sydney Olympic Park for students from 32 schools.
This is the sixth year the two organisations have come together to bring education concerts to students.
Taxi fare changes
New maximum taxi fares and charges will take effect from 5 July in urban and country areas.
Taxis in urban areas including Sydney Metropolitan Transport District and Newcastle Transport District will have a flag fall of $3.20 and a distance rate of $1.93 per kilometre.
Taxis in country areas will have a flag fall of $3.70 and a distance rate of $1.98 per km for the first 12 km and $2.76 per km in excess of 12 km.
Further information on locations and rates was
17 June, 2009
PS restructure to
build efficiency
Sweeping reforms to the structure of the NSW Public Service have been announced, creating 13 super Departments to cover up to 160 State Agencies.
The changes were announced by the Premier, Nathan Rees, who said they represented the biggest shake-up of the NSW PS in more than 30 years but were aimed at delivering better services for NSW residents.
“These changes are designed to ensure a greater focus on our clients, better integration of Public Services and to cut internal Government red tape,” Mr Rees said.
He said the changes would free up resources for frontline services, improve services for business and reduce overlap and barriers between Agencies.
He said similar reforms had been undertaken in Victoria and South Australia and that the 2006 Vertigan Report commissioned by the NSW Government had also recommended the system be streamlined.
Under the new structure the 13 super Departments are Premier and Cabinet; Treasury; Health; Education and Training; Services and Administration; Police and Emergency Services; Planning and Local Government; Justice; Human Services; Transport and Infrastructure; Environment, Climate Change and Water; Industry and Investment; and Communities.
Thirteen Directors-General have been appointed to lead the new Agencies.
Mr Rees said no frontline jobs would be affected by the upheaval and that savings would be achieved by integrating back office services and eliminating bureaucratic duplication.
“Taxpayer savings will also be achieved through extending the NSW Government’s employment freeze, which exempts frontline workers,” he said.
“Our reforms will free-up more resources for service delivery by our hardworking nurses, teachers, police and other frontline workers.”
General Secretary of the Public Service Association of NSW, John Cahill said the PSA had been briefed on the new structure.
“During the briefing it was reiterated several times that there will be no change to services nor loss of jobs,” Mr Cahill said.
He said the PSA would continue to protect services and fight should any job cuts arise.
The Communities Department is to subsume all sporting and art Agencies, Treasury will include all finance Agencies and Human services will cover disability and community services.
A full list of the Departments under which the 160 Agencies fall was available from the Public Service Association website at www.psa.labor.net.au but can also be accessed here.
The Directors-General are:
- Premier & Cabinet: John Lee
- Treasury: Michael Schur
- Health: Professor Deborah Piccone
- Education & Training: Michael Coutts-Trotter
- Services & Admin: Graeme Head
- Police & Emergency Serv: Commissioner Andrew Scipione
- Planning & Local Gov’t: Sam Haddad
- Justice: Laurie Glanfield
- Human Services: Jenny Mason
- Transport & Infrastructure: Les Wielinga
- Environment, Climate Change & Water: Lisa Corbyn
- Industry & Investment: Dr Richard Sheldrake
- Communities: Carol Mills
17 June, 2009
Preference buys into
purchasing policy
A new Government-wide purchasing policy that gives preference to local businesses has been announced as part of the 2009-10 NSW Budget.
Treasurer, Eric Roozendaal announced the policy which will be binding on all NSW Departments, Agencies and State-Owned Corporations.
He said it would favour 500,000 small and medium-sized businesses in NSW.
“Every year, NSW Government agencies spend billions of dollars buying the things they need to deliver services to the people of NSW,” Mr Roozendaal said.
“The NSW Government is putting NSW jobs first.”
He said Government Agencies and SOCs were expected to spend around $3.9 billion on goods and services this year and the new Local Jobs First plan would require them to give preferential treatment to local manufacturers and Australian-made goods.
He said under Local Jobs First, Departments, Agencies and SOCs would be required to use a price preference mechanism to discount locally made content by 20 per cent when compared to overseas-sourced material in tender evaluations.
He said this meant that if an Agency had a choice between purchasing an Australian-made product for $10 and a foreign made product for $9, the Australian-made product would be discounted to a notional $8 thereby and making it the better-value product.
“This plan tips the balance in favour of local businesses, providing them with greater opportunities to expand and sell to government,” he said.
Mr Roozendaal said the policy would also require agencies and SOCs to give preferential treatment to certain industries located in country NSW.
He an additional 5 per cent discount may be given to products that attract the Country Industries Preference.
“This plan makes it easier for more than half a million small and medium-sized businesses across NSW to get more business from the NSW Government, in turn supporting jobs in NSW,” Mr Roozendaal said.
He said until now, the price preference only applied to businesses with up to 200 workers, but that had now been extended 500.
“Where no Free Trade Agreement applies, the price preference will be applied to all businesses regardless of size,” Mr Roozendaal said.
He said other reforms to the Government’s purchasing policies included:
- Tenders in excess of $4 million to require an industry participation plan;
- Tenders to explain how apprentices and trainees will benefit;
- Agencies and SOCs to report annually on implementing the new plan;
- Compliance to be included in CEOs’ performance agreements.
Mr Roozendaal said the Government would continue to honour its commitments under free trade agreements and that value for money would remain a key objective of the purchasing policy.
He said an implementation committee would be set up and chaired by the Deputy Premier and would include representatives from business groups and unions as well as representatives from the Minister for Regional Development, NSW Treasury, the Department of State and Regional Development and the Department of Commerce.
17 June, 2009
Recruitment plan
to strengthen PS
Recruitment processes and training strategies are to be reformed to strengthen the NSW Public Service so that it can support jobs and essential services in NSW.
Minister for Public Sector Reform and Special Minister of State, John Robertson said the intention was to make the NSW PS a more dynamic public workforce.
Mr Robertson said this week’s Budget included $5.8 million for the new e-recruitment strategy and $250,000 for 100 pre-apprenticeship places for school leavers.
He said the e-Recruitment strategy was to seek out the best people in the least amount of time.
“The centrepiece of the strategy is a job search website applicable to all Agencies,” Mr Robertson said, “to reduce duplication and the costs of recruitment and advertising.”
He said the new system would make managing vacancies, position descriptions, employment criteria, advertising, selection panels, candidate correspondence, and data collection faster and easier.
“This will lead to greater efficiency and millions of dollars in savings across the public sector.”
He said as Australia’s largest employer, the NSW Government had an obligation to continuously improve the speed and quality of its hiring.
“Any member of the public will be able to access Government job information, as soon as it becomes available on the site,” he said.
“(It would) connect job seekers with employment in tough economic circumstances.”
He said the e-Recruitment website was expected to come online later this year.
Mr Robertson said the 100 new pre-apprenticeship training places for school leavers would be offered in Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong, the Central West and North Coast to allow school leavers to transition into fulltime apprenticeships
“The pre-apprenticeship courses run for six weeks and help to prepare students for entry into a fulltime apprenticeship,” Mr Robertson said.
“These training programs will help position the NSW workforce for growth when the economic downturn eases.”
He said the first pre-apprenticeship positions would be offered from this month.
17 June, 2009
Jobs get more work
under framework
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has published a Circular explaining the procedures applicable to job evaluations under the Public Sector Capability Framework.
The Framework is being adopted across the NSW PS to produce a common and consistent language to describe the knowledge, skills and abilities required in Public Service positions.
The aim of the Framework is to streamline the delivery of services to the community and to simplify effective recruitment.
According to the DPC Circular, an agreement with the Public Service Association means Agencies are not required to convene panels to evaluate positions to fit into the Framework but should do so as ‘desktop evaluations’ using an accredited methodology.
“Any dispute over a job evaluation should be dealt with in accordance with the appropriate agency dispute resolution procedures,” the Circular says.
“DPC is updating references to job evaluation in policy documents and the Personnel Handbook to reflect this change.”
It says a library of position descriptions and job advertisements had been developed to fit in with the capability framework, reflecting many of the most common jobs across the sector and at a range of levels.
“The library of position descriptions allows benchmarking against existing positions,” it says. “This will save time evaluating jobs and promote greater consistency across the sector.”
The Circular says the new position descriptions are shorter and designed to attract the right capabilities for positions in the PS.
“Agencies can modify and evaluate these position descriptions,” it says.
Director-General of DPC, John Lee who signed the Circular, said his Department had been conducting briefings, workshops and train-the-trainer sessions for Agency staff over the past few months and had lodged information and supporting documents on its website.
“DPC will continue to review the application of the Framework with Agencies and update as necessary to ensure that it is flexible and reflects the capabilities needed by the sector,” Mr Lee said.
The Framework and supporting documents can be accessed at www.dpc.nsw.gov.au and will be linked to the new e-recruiting system.
The Circular - No. C2009-18 - can also be accessed at that site.
17 June, 2009
Public speakers speak
out on public admin
The Institute of Public Administration Australia has announced further additions to its line-up of speakers engaged to address the IPAA NSW State Conference in August.
Spokesperson for IPAA NSW, Craig Boaden said the Director General of the United Kingdom’s Prime Minister’s Delivery Unit, Ray Shostak had been invited to deliver the keynote address at the conference.
Mr Boaden said confirmed speakers also included former Director-General of the Roads and Traffic Authority, Paul Forward and Griffith University’s Dr A.J Brown.
He said Dr Brown would speak on the relations between Governments at the conference which had the theme Creating Opportunities in Turbulent Times: Identify; Innovate; Inspire.
Mr Boaden said the conference aimed to frame thinking on Public Sector modernisation in the NSW context by looking at the past and into the future and exploring how to create innovative opportunities.
The conference is expected to identify challenges facing the Public Service and how to address them, what can be learnt from previous challenges and how the Public Service can thrive in the years ahead.
It will be held on 13 August 2009 in the Crystal Palace Convention Centre at Sydney’s Luna Park.
Mr Boaden said IPAA NSW was urging Public Servants in Federal, State and Local Government to attend.
Further information was available from www.nsw.ipaa.org.au
17 June, 2009
End of the road for
speeding drivers
Urgent action is to be taken to help beat the rising road toll in NSW with the Ministers for Police and Roads announcing that a road safety roundtable was to be set up.
The Minister for Police, Tony Kelly and for Roads, Michael Daley called on road safety campaigners and Government Agencies such as the Motor Accidents Authority and NSW Health, to participate in the roundtable.
The Ministers said they believed they were “losing the battle with speeding drivers”.
“We want these experts to put their heads together and advise us on ways to reduce the number of deaths on our roads,” Mr Daley said.
“They need to tell us what we can do for speeding and fatigue that will achieve results similar to the success we’ve had with drink driving.”
The roundtable was expected to be up and running “in a matter of weeks”.
Mr Daley said so far this year over 207 people had been killed on NSW roads, 56 more than the same period last year.
“That’s 207 families whose lives have been ruined – 207 communities that have been emotionally and financially hit by these tragic incidents,” he said.
Mr Kelly said despite the warnings on speeding and fatigue, too many people were prepared to risk their own lives and the lives of others by driving recklessly.
“Four people lost their lives over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend despite police conducting Operation Stay Alert,” he said.
“Hundreds of police patrol our roads day-in, day-out in an effort to reduce the number of fatalities.”
Mr Kelly said during Operation Stay Alert, police conducted 167,950 breath tests, charged 315 motorists with drink driving offences, issued 5,433 speeding infringements and 7,484 other infringement notices.
“These figures indicate that people have learnt from the drink driving education campaigns as police conducted 42,396 more breath tests compared with 2008 but charged almost half the amount of people,” he said.
“However, police caught 1,193 more people speeding compared with the same operation last year.
“The simple fact is that we can’t have a policeman sitting in the passenger seat of every car, a red light camera on every corner or a speed camera on every stretch of road.”
Manager of Australian Trucking Association (ATA) NSW, Jill Lewis welcomed the roundtable, saying the Association was eager to be involved.
“ATA NSW is keen to have a seat at the table for this important initiative and to represent the views of the trucking industry,” Ms Lewis said.
“The trucking industry has spent a lot of time investigating ways to reduce the road toll and we feel our experience would be valuable in any discussions.”
17 June, 2009
Transport overhaul
shows way ahead
The Premier has announced that delivery of the State’s transport services and infrastructure had been overhauled with a new super Department created to control all transport and roads coordination, policy and planning functions.
Premier, Nathan Rees said the new Agency - NSW Transport and Infrastructure - would provide better coordination of road and public transport services and ensure infrastructure was built where it was needed.
“We need major change in the delivery of transport services in NSW and this new structure will make it happen,” Mr Rees said.
“This is about getting a single direction for transport services and developing a single transport blueprint for NSW.”
He said the Agency would be the single point of contact for transport and roads for the Government and that the consolidation would reduce costs.
“The days of Government Agencies operating as independent silos are over,” Mr Rees said.
The Agency will “take the lead” on all the policy and planning functions of the Ministry of Transport, RailCorp, Roads and Traffic Authority, State Transit Authority, Sydney Ferries, the Public Transport Ticketing Corporation and Waterways.
Mr Rees said it would be responsible for coordinating transport services, infrastructure and asset management as well as budget funding submissions.
Minister for Transport, David Campbell said Les Wielinga had been appointed acting Director General of the new super-Agency.
Mr Campbell said Mr Wielinga would work on implementing new reforms and service improvements and developing a transport blueprint that integrates urban growth and transport delivery, in collaboration with the Department of Planning.
“The new arrangements will provide administrative efficiencies allowing a greater focus on frontline services,” he said.
“The creation of NSW Transport and Infrastructure builds on the Government’s earlier announcement that RailCorp and Sydney Ferries would no longer be corporations.”
An implementation team will be put in place by the Minister for Transport to ensure the changes occur as soon as possible.
17 June, 2009
DPC takes time out
to urge leave takers
Chief Executives in the NSW public sector have been asked to encourage their staff to use up their accrued leave.
Director General of the Department of Premier and Cabinet, John Lee issued a Circular reminding Staff of the No Leave, No Life campaign that was launched in December 2008 urging Public Servants to take a break.
Mr Lee said the campaign sought to convert accrued leave into more holidays and travel within Australia.
“Chief Executives should encourage all NSW Public Sector employees to use accrued leave to have a break, whilst ensuring that essential services continue to be provided,” he said.
“Encouraging employees to take leave will support individuals in their endeavours to achieve work/life balance, as well as having a positive impact on reducing leave liability throughout the Sector.”
Mr Lee said the Commonwealth and the NSW Government were working together to implement No Leave, No Life in NSW.
Federal Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson said Tourism Australia established the campaign to encourage Australians to use their leave while boosting the domestic tourism and hospitality industries.
Mr Lee said representatives from the tourism industry told the NSW Government’s Job Summit that taking short breaks would help stimulate local economies.
In response to the recommendation, Tourism NSW developed a range of flexible and affordable getaways to help NSW residents take a break.
“Taking a holiday within NSW will benefit individuals and families, help business and benefit the NSW economy,” Mr Lee said.
Further information on the No Leave, No Life campaign was available from www.noleavenolife.com
17 June, 2009
Bi-lingual move gets
tongues wagging
NSW schools have been invited to apply to become bi-lingual from next year.
Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth said four schools would be funded to offer their students a bi-lingual education as part of Government plans for the State to get closer to Asia.
Ms Firth said schools needed to apply to join the program which would help students become fluent in Mandarin, Korean, Japanese or Indonesian.
“Asia is on our doorstep and this program is vital to the future economic and social prosperity of New South Wales,” she said.
“Research shows that the best way to learn a second language and to master fluency is to start early.”
Ms Firth said students would be immersed in the languages for one and a half hours each school day, from as early as kindergarten.
“New languages will be taught directly and through integration in other subjects,” she said.
“For example, students will learn the grammatical components of Mandarin and will also be taught other subjects such as creative arts, health and technology in that language.”
Ms Firth said the program would be delivered by specialist native or near-native language teachers trained in primary education.
She said native-speaking volunteers such as overseas education graduates or students would also assist under the supervision of teachers.
The bi-lingual program is expected to start with two classes from kindergarten to Year 2 at each of the four schools, with two classes being added in each year up to Year 4, and one class in Years 5 and 6.
The new program was included in the 2009-10 NSW budget through a commitment of $2.25 million over four years.
Under the planned program, schools will also offer a non-bi-lingual stream.
17 June, 2009
Parents’ fears are
online child’s play
The Department of Community Services has launched a new fact sheet to help parents cope with their children’s involvement in online computer gaming.
Minister for Community Services, Linda Burney said many parents were concerned their children spent too much time alone playing online computer games.
Ms Burney said these concerns often stemmed from “fear and unfamiliarity” about online games and social networks.
“There’s also currently a lack of information and education for parents on this issue,” she said.
“The amount of time children spend playing games online is also causing conflict for some parents and their children.”
Ms Burney said the parenting advice line Parent Line had reported relationship breakdowns between parents and children over online computer games.
“In rare instances where children do become addicted to playing games, there can be negative consequences– it can reduce their ability to concentrate at school, puts stress on family relationships, socially isolate the child and hinders the development of their social skills and may even affect their health,” she said.
“My advice to parents is get curious and ask your child about what online computer gaming is all about and how he or she is involved in this activity.”
Mr Burney said as computers and the internet were part of everyday life, the issue would not solve itself.
“Every generation faces a new parenting challenge,” she said. “For parents today managing children’s use of the internet is a major issue.”
Ms Burney advised parents to educate themselves, discuss the issue with their children, assess how gaming was affecting their children and negotiate boundaries to limit the number of hours spent playing games.
She launched the fact sheet at the X|Media|Lab Sydney Serious Games Conference in Sydney.
Director of X|Media|Lab, Brendan Harkin welcomed the fact sheet, saying online gaming was not purely entertainment but was often based on educational and learning purposes.
“Unlike traditional forms of text-based teaching, computer games can provide fully immersive, personalised, responsive and enjoyable learning experiences – this can encourage creativity and the development of strategic and collaborative skills,” Mr Harkin said.
Ms Burney said Census data showed 48 per cent of children with access to the internet after school used it between 2 and 6 days a week and spent an average of 7.9 hours per fortnight playing games.
She encouraged parents who wanted more advice to call the Parent Line on 1300 1300 52 or to download the fact sheet from www.community.nsw.gov.au
17 June, 2009
Stocktake is all
go for NGOs
A stocktake of Government achievements in supporting and developing non-Government Agencies involved in human services has been released by the Department of Premier and Cabinet.
The stocktake covers official activity across a range of areas and is intended to be used as a basis for sharing information across Agencies.
The document entitled NGO Support Stocktake: Developing and supporting human service non-Government organisations in NSW outlines Government participation in the four areas of building and maintaining relationships; improving service quality and community outcomes; streamlining funding and regulatory processes; and supporting workforce capacity building.
According to DPC, as well as sharing information across Agencies, the stocktake will be used to coordinate with the NGO sector about consultation, funding and support strategies and will also be used as a framework for the future development and support of NGOs in NSW.
The Department said the Government provides almost $2 billion annually to around 3,000 NGOs to help them deliver community-based services across NSW.
“The focus of this investment has been on ensuring the sustainable delivery of a key set of services to vulnerable people in NSW, and on bolstering a healthy and inclusive community life,” the stocktake document said.
It found that the Government maintained an extensive network of consultative and advisory structures with its NGO partners to improve program areas and inform policy development.
It said the Government had also established practical structures and networks to build informal relationships between front-line workers in the two sectors to enable NGOs to be involved in local planning decisions.
It said the sector was funded through State and national programs, often administered by Government Agencies.
“Priorities for the main funding Agencies are designing and implementing quality assurance and monitoring systems that…reflect the effectiveness and value for money of particular services,” it said.
“Through their monitoring and review activities, funding Agencies are looking at ways to streamline the administration burden on NGOs while still maintaining an appropriate level of accountability.”
It said the Office of Fair Trading has been leading a review of legislation to reduce the regulatory burden on NGOs and the Federal Government planned to consider ways to improve regulatory and governance arrangements.
The stocktake document could be accessed at www.dpc.nsw.gov.au
17 June, 2009
New body of law
for Coroner cases
New laws have been introduced to strengthen the rights of family members dealing with the Coroner’s Court.
Attorney General, John Hatzistergos said under the new laws, families would not have to wait for the outcome of lengthy Coronial proceedings when the cause of death was apparent.
Mr Hatzistergos said under the current system families had to wait for the outcome of a post-mortem, even when the cause of death was clear.
“Any delay in laying a loved one to rest can have the unwanted effect of prolonging the pain and grief experienced by families,” he said.
“In appropriate circumstances, families will now have a greater say in how Coronial matters are dealt with so they can lay their loved ones to rest at the earliest opportunity.”
Mr Hatzistergos said under the new Act, Coroners would be free to focus on necessary investigations promptly and professionally by allowing them to dispense with a post mortem if the person died of natural causes and the family did not want one conducted.
The Act would require Coroners to establish whether the cause of death could be determined through other means such as medical records, would oblige medical officers use the least invasive procedures possible and would give families greater say in whether a death needed to be reported to the Coroner at all.
Mr Hatzistergos said other changes included new requirements when granting people access to Coroners’ files, only allowing Magistrates and Australian lawyers to be appointed as Coroners and allowing Coroners to conduct pre-inquest hearings in Court.
President of the NSW Law Society, Joe Catanzariti welcomed the new legislation.
“A Coronial Inquiry can be a very emotional time for all involved, including the Coroner, so any moves to make it less so is welcomed,” Mr Catanzariti said.
President of the NSW Funeral Directors Association, Phil Brookes said the amendments would help grieving families cope with the loss of a loved one.
“Unnecessary delays with the coroner can frustrate people’s ability to grieve, obtain closure and move on with their lives when a friend or relative passes away,” Mr Brookes said.
Mr Hatzistergos said around half of the 6,000 deaths reported to the coroner each year were the result of natural causes.
17 June, 2009
State shows hand on
internet gambling
The NSW Government is leading moves toward a national approach to controlling gambling on the internet.
Minister for Gaming and Racing, Kevin Greene said the moves came in response to the Productivity Commission’s Inquiry into Gambling in Australia.
Mr Greene said the entry of corporate bookmakers and cross-border leaking of revenue made it difficult for any State to operate independently and that gambling regulations differed between States.
“The NSW Government wants to see our State’s ban on corporate bookmakers offering tote odds taken up across the country,” he said.
“We are calling for a ban on tote odds betting by corporate bookmakers because we believe this diminishes the level of funding brought back to the racing industry.
“This ultimately hurts employment opportunities, particularly in regional areas.”
Mr Greene said responsibility for Australian gambling laws was fragmented between traditional State and Territory legislation and the Commonwealth’s Interactive Gambling Act 2001.
“Australia must adopt a national approach to internet wagering to provide consistency and consumer protection,” he said.
Mr Greene said the NSW Government welcomed the Productivity Commission’s inquiry which updated the last gambling study to be conducted 10 years ago.
“A lot has changed since the Productivity Commission’s last gambling inquiry in 1999, like the introduction of many responsible gambling and harm minimisation measures in NSW,” he said.
Mr Greene said over the past decade the Government had invested millions of dollars in counselling services, research and education and awareness initiatives for problem gamblers.
“We have also introduced strict gaming laws to protect local communities by banning 24-hour gaming in pubs and clubs and prohibiting gaming machine advertising,” he said.
17 June, 2009
New plumber rules
flush with success
Common rules for regulating plumbers across NSW are expected to replace up to 100 different regimes when they are introduced according to the Minister for Regulatory Reform, Joe Tripodi.
Mr Tripodi said the Government’s decision to create a single standard for the industry marked a major change from the current system in which each local water utility had its own rules.
He and Kiama MP, Matt Brown met in Gerringong to tell local tradesmen how the changes would benefit their businesses.
“The current regulatory system is complex and unnecessarily costly,” Mr Tripodi said.
“The benefits of simplifying and streamlining NSW plumbing regulation will be felt by individual tradespeople in terms of reduced complexity and time saved.”
He said the new regime would be aimed at “cutting red tape” and “aligning technical standards” with other States to the benefit of NSW plumbers.
Mr Tripodi said the move was “part of a broader effort” to improve the regulatory environment for NSW businesses.
He said an implementation group had been set up to work with industry to deliver a single NSW Agency responsible for standard setting and regulation; an inspection and compliance regime; the adoption of the Plumbing Code of Australia in NSW; and a communication and education strategy.
He said the goals were expected to be delivered by mid-2010.
Mr Brown said the changes showed the Government was committed to helping businesses and workers across the State.
Gerringong plumber, Trevor Henderson said he supported the changes as they meant less paperwork and would make a big difference to businesses.
Further information was available from www.betterregulation.nsw.gov.au and www.dwe.nsw.gov.au
17 June, 2009
Conservation park
gets green light
A block of land at Cranebrook that was formerly used by the Commonwealth Agency, Airservices Australia, has been purchased by the State Government to form a new conservation reserve in Sydney’s west.
Minister for the Environment, Carmel Tebbutt said the land would be part of the Wianamatta network of reserves managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.
Ms Tebbutt said the area had significant conservation value that would make an “outstanding addition” to the network of parks in Western Sydney.
“This land is home to an important part of the Cumberland Plain vegetation and an estimated 10 per cent of the remaining Castlereagh Swamp Woodland endangered ecological community,” she said.
“A total of 76 native animal species have been recorded on the site including sugar gliders, eastern grey kangaroos, ring tailed possums and echidnas.”
Ms Tebbutt said following the recent purchase, 14,780 hectares of land was now protected in Western Sydney.
Federal Minister for the Environment, Peter Garrett said the site would protect some of Sydney’s most endangered species by providing a wildlife corridor and would secure additional green space for residents of Western Sydney.
Mr Garrett said the purchase meant the land was saved from future development as it was previously sold to a developer in 2004.
He said the Commonwealth would work with the NSW Government to preserve critical areas of Cumberland Plain woodland for future generations.
“This land is an essential part of the green corridor which stretches from the former Australian Defence Industries site through to the base of the Blue Mountains,” Mr Garrett said.
“Residents in this area have been concerned about the future of this site and so I’m really pleased to announce its long term protection.”
MP for Londonderry, Allan Shearan and Federal MP for Lindsay, David Bradbury said the purchase was a win for the environment and for the residents of Western Sydney.
17 June, 2009
Airline agreement to
reach for the sky
A three-year partnership between no-frills airline Jetstar and Tourism NSW has been announced in a bid to attract more tourists to the Premier State.
Minister for Tourism, Jodi McKay and Chief Executive Officer of Jetstar, Bruce Buchanan said the multi-million dollar partnership was important due to the global spending slowdown.
Ms McKay said the Government needed to do all it could to assist industry through “these difficult times”.
“Tourism NSW and Jetstar Airways have enjoyed a long-standing relationship,” Ms McKay said, “with Jetstar serving both the domestic and international markets.”
“This three year partnership will strengthen that relationship and offer both parties greater opportunities to extend the reach and effectiveness of tourism campaigns and promotional programs.”
She said Jetstar was part of the Qantas group and operated flights into Sydney, Newcastle and Ballina/Byron in NSW. It also flew to the Gold Coast which was the gateway to Northern NSW destinations.
Mr Buchanan said by working with “committed partners such as Tourism NSW”, Jetstar had a chance to co-operatively market North Coast NSW and Sydney to customers looking for low fares.
“North and Far North Coast NSW and Sydney all represent critical ports within the
Jetstar network with substantial direct domestic and international links,” he said.
Jetstar Airways and Tourism NSW have had partnership marketing agreements in place for the past three years to promote NSW to domestic and international markets including New Zealand and Japan.
Ms McKay said the new partnership would begin on 1 July 2009 and would continue to promote travel within NSW.
17 June, 2009
AAA rating affirmed
International ratings agency, Fitch Ratings has affirmed NSW’s AAA domestic credit rating.
NSW holds a AAA domestic credit rating with Standard & Poor's and Moody's, and has done so since ratings commenced in July 1987.
Treasurer, Eric Roozendaal welcomed the announcement.
Melinda winner
Congratulations to Melinda Hale of the Department of Environment and Climate Change for being the 10,000th subscriber to PS News.
Melinda has won tickets to the Simon and Garfunkel concert at the ACER arena next Tuesday.
Warning on PS freeze
The Budget announcement that the freeze on frontline workers in the PS was to be lifted has prompted the Public Service Association to call for more information from the Government.
General Secretary of the PSA, John Cahill said the Government must define what it meant by ‘frontline worker’ or the result could be a ‘significant reduction’ in the size of the NSW public sector.
"Frontline workers rely on frontline support,” Mr Cahill said, “and when these resources are reduced, their ability to do their job is undermined."
He said the average annual turnover of staff in the NSW PS was around 6,000, making a jobs freeze a major loss
New points scheme
The new Demerit Point Scheme announced by the Minister for Roads, Michael Daley in March this year is to be introduced on 1 July, two months ahead of schedule.
The scheme aims to make the system fairer for motorists and roads safer for the community.
Under the scheme, motorists who travel one to 10kmh over the speed limit will be fined one demerit point and $84; 11 to 20kmh will attract three demerit points and a $197 fine; 21 to 30kmh will be fined four demerit points and $338; 31 to 45kmh will result in a three month suspension, five demerit points and a $647 fine; and over 45kmh will result in a six month suspension, six demerit points and a $1,744 fine.
Parramatta ferry
Commuters between Parramatta and the CBD will soon be able to catch a ferry for the trip.
The Government is to run the service after an Expression of Interest process failed to result in a satisfactory proposal from the private sector.
The ferry service will run hourly from 7am to 7pm weekdays and 8am to 6pm on weekends.
Call to drop tenderer
The Public Service Association has called on the Government to exclude a potential jail management company from its list of contenders to run private jails in NSW.
Industrial Officer with the PSA, Stewart Little said the Association understood that the company involved in the horrific death of an Aboriginal man in the back of a prison van in Western Australia was on a shortlist to run the Parklea prison.
“The government should immediately suspend the tender process,” Mr Little said.
Medal nominations open
Chief Executive Officers have been encouraged to nominate staff members for the NSW Public Service Medal.
The Medal can be awarded to Public Servants at all levels of service, with nominations to be made to the Premier, Nathan Rees by 31 July 2009.
The prestigious Medal recognises Public Servants who have contributed to the community by performing their duties in an outstanding manner, although length of service alone is not a sufficient reason to nominate.
Further information was available from www.itsanhonour.gov.au
Vaccination program
Women in the Public Service have been reminded to utilise the free cervical cancer vaccination program before it comes to an end on 30 June.
Women must have their first dose before the end of June and have their third and final vaccination before 31 December 2009 to be eligible for the free program.
Those who miss out will have to pay around $450 for the vaccine, which has been proven to prevent Human Papillomavirus strains responsible for 70 per cent of cervical cancers.
Centrelink Information Day
Centrelink’s Maitland Office has held a Community Information Day to provide residents with information about the services offered by Federal, State and Local Government Agencies.
Representatives from the NSW Department of Community Services, Housing NSW, Christians Against Poverty, Maitland Family Support, Maitland Neighbourhood Centre, Child Support Agency, Financial Counselling Hunter Valley, the Benevolent Society and Medicare Australia set up information stalls on the day.
Energy cadetships
Country Energy is offering two engineering cadetships for university students to help them gain on-the-job training while studying.
The cadetships are expected to commence in 2010, and will add to the 13 cadets already working for the electricity network.
More information on the four-year cadetship could be found at www.countryenergy.com.au and applications close 31 July.
PS pays in Tasmania
Public servants are to bear the brunt of the Tasmanian State Government’s budget cuts, with 800 expected to lose their jobs.
Tasmanian Treasurer, Michael Aird reportedly said expressions of interest for voluntary redundancies would commence in the second half of this year.
Mr Aird said jobs in the health, education and police services would not be affected.
Contractor stats
The Australian Bureau of Statistics has reported that in November 2008 one in 10 employed people worked as independent contractors.
According to the ABS there were 967,100 people working as independent contractors in their main job during the month and an additional 134,100 working as independent contractors in their second job.
The Bureau also found that 5% of people with jobs had found them through a
labour hire firm or employment agency with about 22 per cent being paid by the firm.
10 June, 2009
PS in firing line for
union campaign
Unions NSW is gearing up for a major campaign to secure a Government commitment to the maintenance of public sector jobs and to increase union membership.
An all-day Delegates Conference to be held on 25 June will launch the Public Services Campaign, with organisers aiming to have every Agency represented.
Organisers said the campaign would be reminiscent of the Your Rights at Work Campaign, and that it would run until the next State election, to be held in March 2011.
"In every NSW election politicians use public services and public sector workers as political footballs,” Unions NSW said in a statement to introduce its campaign.
“Both sides of politics engage in a job and service reduction without any discussion about the broader effects on workers and our communities.
“Our campaign aims to cut to the heart of this matter by reframing the debate and shifting the policies of all parties to be to be pro- community, pro-worker and pro-Government services.”
The Public Services Campaign will run in addition to various other campaigns by individual unions, such as those to promote nurses and public schools.
Unions NSW said all major public sector unions would be joining in the event.
The Public Service Association of NSW (PSA), which is participating in the campaign, said it intended to get at least 100 delegates along to the Conference, with one representing smaller Agencies, and “a spread of delegates” for larger Agencies.
“We want delegates and activists who are keen to spread this campaign through their communities and workplaces,” a spokesperson for PSA said in a statement.
It is calling for expressions of interest from delegates. PSA members who want to be involved should get in touch with their Industrial Officer.
For details, go to www.psa.labor.net.au or lcnsw.labor.net.au
10 June, 2009
PS awards mark
public service
Public Servants have featured prominently in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List with many members of the NSW PS receiving recognition for excellence in service.,
The honours were announced by the Governor-General, Quentin Bryce.
PUBLIC SERVICE MEDAL – PSM
Janet Mary ANDERSON PSM
North Sydney
For outstanding public service in the development and reform of policy frameworks for the use of resources within the NSW Health system.
Ms Anderson his part of the senior management team at NSW Health and played a key role in the development and reform of policy frameworks for the use of resources in the NSW Health system.
Janice CARROLL PSM
Newtown
For outstanding public service, particularly for the children and young people of New South Wales who are considered to have high and complex needs.
Ms Carroll has made a contribution to the Department of Community Services as a true advocate for the children and young people considered to have high and complex needs.
Athol Patrick COOK PSM
Mosman
For outstanding public service in the NSW Public Sector over an extended period.
Mr Cook has held a number of positions in the Department of Health over an extended period, providing an exceptional level of service.
John Edward DENGATE PSM
For outstanding public service, particular in the public affairs arena.
Mr Dengate has been one of the voices and public faces of environment protection for over 30 years and is a Public Service role model in public affairs.
Sydney Hubert GRIFFITH PSM
Pennant Hills
For outstanding public service, particularly in innovative and sustained contribution to the enhancement and improvement of the technical capabilities of New South Wales Police.
Mr Griffith has provided an innovative and sustained contribution to the enhancement and improvement of the technical capabilities of New South Wales Police over many years.
Patricia Thelma HALL PSM
Bundanoon
For outstanding public service, particularly in the provision of educational and tourist information regarding the national parks and reserves in the South Coast region of New South Wales.
Ms Hall has served with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) South Coast for over 29 years,
Pauline Therese McKENZIE PSM
Boambee
For outstanding public service in the provision of public housing, particularly in northern New South Wales.
Ms McKenzie has worked in a number of diverse roles for Housing NSW over a period totalling 17 years, culminating in the position of General Manager, Northern NSW division.
Barry Charles PEDDLE PSM
Fairy Meadow
For outstanding public service in the NSW Public Sector, undertaking several strategic leadership roles within TAFE NSW.
Mr Peddle has played strategic leadership roles in TAFE NSW for over 30 years. He has made a major contribution to policy development in Australia and internationally.
Dr Larry VOGELNEST PSM
Cobbitty
For outstanding public service as Senior Veterinarian, Taronga Conservation Society Australia.
Dr Vogelnest has made contributed to conservation medicine and the veterinary profession over 19 years with the Taronga Conservation Society Australia.
Brian Anthony WEIR PSM
Kiama
For outstanding public service to the community of Shellharbour.
Mr Weir is General Manager of Shellharbour City Council.
Kevin Ronald WRIGHT PSM
Calamvale Qld
For outstanding public service to the rail industry within New South Wales.
Mr Wright has contributed to the rail industry both in New South Wales and throughout Australia, working in a number of frontline positions and rising to executive management positions.
OFFICERS OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA - AO
Gillian Elizabeth CALVERT AO
Dulwich Hill
For service to the community as a leading advocate in the protection of the rights and welfare of children and youth.
Ms Calvert was inaugural New South Wales Commissioner for Children and Young People.
Justice David Hargraves HODGSON AO
Supreme Court
For service to the judiciary and to the law, particularly through the Supreme Court of New South Wales.
Justice Hodgson has been a Judge of Appeal in the Supreme Court of New South Wales since 2001.
MEMBERS OF THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA- AM
Professor Bruce Crosby FORSTER AM
Double Bay
For service to surveying and mapping, particularly in the fields of spatial information and remote sensing and as a researcher and educator.
Professor Forster is Visiting Professor at the School of Surveying and Spatial Information Systems in the Faculty of Engineering at the University of New South Wales.
Associate Professor Terence Matthew (Terry) GAGEN AM
Sydney
For service to higher education in the field of mathematics as an educator, researcher and mentor and through the National Mathematics Summer School.
Professor Gagen has been honorary Associate Professor at the School of Mathematics and Statistics at the University of Sydney since his retirement in 2003.
Dr Paul HUTCHINS AM
Ashfield
For service to medicine as a paediatrician, particularly through the interdisciplinary management of care for children with complex developmental problems and their families.
Dr Hutchins has been the Developmental Paediatrician in the Child Development Unit of the Children's Hospital at Westmead since 1982.
Professor Richard Frederick KEFFORD AM
Summer Hill
For service to medicine in the area of oncology research, to professional organisations, and as an educator.
Professor Kefford has been Professor of Medicine at the University of Sydney at Westmead Hospital since 1996.
Adjunct Professor John Gerard KELLY AM
Fairlight
For service to the community in the areas of nursing and aged care policy development, and to healthcare management.
Professor Kelly is Adjunct Professor at the Faculty of Nursing, Midwifery and Health at the University of Technology.
Professor Russell Duncan LANSBURY AM
Clareville
For service to industrial relations as an educator and researcher and through contributions to the development of human resource and labour management policies.
Professor Lansbury has been Professor of Industrial Relations and Organisational Studies at the Faculty of Business and Economics in the University of Sydney since 1987.
Professor Balakrishnan R (Kichu) NAIR AM
Merewether
For service to medicine and to medical education through the development of undergraduate and professional development programs and as a geriatrician.
Professor Nair has been Conjoint Professor at the School of Medicine and Public Health in the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Newcastle for over 10 years.
Brendan Michael O'REILLY AM
West Ryde
For service to the aged care and disability sectors in New South Wales through policy development and program delivery, and to technical and further education.
Mr O’Reilly is Director-General of the Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care.
Associate Professor John Bernard ZIEGLER AM
Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick
For service to paediatric medicine in the areas of infectious disease, HIV/AIDS, and immunology and allergy as a practitioner, researcher and educator.
Professor Ziegler is Head of the Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases at the Sydney Children's Hospital, formerly the Prince of Wales Children's Hospital.
MEDALS IN THE ORDER OF AUSTRALIA – OAM
Margaret Florence BRESNAHAN OAM
Rockdale
For service to paediatric nursing, and to the community through a range of children's charities and overseas humanitarian aid programs.
Ms Bresnahan is Equipment Coordinator at the Intensive Care Uni of the Sydney Children's Hospital, Randwick.
Christine Gloria HUNTER OAM
Rivett ACT
For service to public education, and to the community.
Mrs Hunter has been Principal of the Jerrabomberra Public School since 2001.
Associate Professor James Leslie (Jim) KOHEN OAM
Doonside
For service to the Indigenous community, particularly the preservation of the heritage and culture of the Darug people.
Professor Kohen has been an academic with the Department of Biological Sciences at Macquarie University since 1991.
Dr Siobhan Kathleen LAVELLE OAM
For service to historical archaeology and heritage conservation, particularly the preservation of colonial roads and cemeteries.
Dr Lavelle is Senior Heritage Officer in the Heritage Branch of the Department of Planning.
Dennis Peter MUDD OAM
For service to education, and to the community.
Mr Mudd was Principal of the Moss Vale Public School until 2006.
10 June, 2009
Red tape reforms
are in the pink
The Premier has issued a Memorandum to advise Ministers and Agency CEOs of their responsibilities in meeting the Government’s commitment to reduce red tape by $500 million by June 2011.
The Premier said CEOs listed in the Memorandum would be expected to report twice yearly on progress to the Better Regulation Office.
Reports will have to identify achievements in cutting red tape over the previous six months, including quantification of the cost savings of reforms to business, Government and community using BRO’s tool Measuring the Costs of Regulation, available at www.betterregulation.nsw.gov.au
Also to be included will be Agency plans for the next six months, including cost savings estimates.
The BRO will publish results in an annual update, Removing Red Tape in NSW and progress will regularly be made available to the public on the BRO website.
The Premier said the first report would be required by 24 July 2009 and would need to identify achievements in regulatory reform and cutting red tape between 1 July 2008 and 30 June 2009, along with forecasts for the next six months.
BRO will provide a reporting template.
The Premier said in the Memorandum that the new accountability was to be included in CEO performance agreements and that the CEO Performance Agreement Guidelines (Premier’s Memorandum 2008-04) would be updated accordingly.
More information can be provided by contacting Georgina Beattie, Director, Better Regulation Office on 9228 4039 or via email at georgina.beattie@dpc.nsw.gov.au
10 June, 2009
Defibrillators show
CityRail has a heart
Up to 100 life-saving defibrillators are to be installed in CityRail’s busiest railway stations in a move to improve public safety.
Premier, Nathan Rees said the Automated External Defibrillators increased the chances of surviving a cardiac arrest if used quickly.
Mr Rees said the Government would invest over $900,000 to rollout the defibrillators.
“Defibrillators are common on commercial aircraft and in airports but this is the first major rollout by a public transport operator in Australia,” he said.
“Around 500,000 people use CityRail services every working day and I have no doubt that the defibrillators will save lives.”
Mr Rees said the current survival rate from a sudden cardiac arrest outside a hospital was less than 5 per cent, but that if the patient received defibrillation within the first three minutes of the arrest, their chance of surviving increased to over 50 per cent.
He said if one of the defibrillator units was activated, a signal would be sent to the supplier and an ambulance automatically dispatched to the site with the help of a GPS signalling device
Minister for Transport, David Campbell said as the defibrillators were rolled out, station staff would be trained in their use, but that as the units were fully automatic, members of the public could also operate them.
“They are lightweight and battery-powered and provide both simple voice and screen prompts to lead people through the defibrillation process,” Mr Campbell said.
“The units can also instruct people how to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation – or CPR – if that’s necessary.”
Professor Michael O’Rourke from St Vincent’s Hospital said immediate access to a defibrillator was vital as the chance of surviving a cardiac arrest decreased by 10 per cent for every minute defibrillation was delayed.
The rollout follows the trial installation of 5 units at several stations in 2007.
The units are to be installed in busy CityRail stations, CountryLink XPT and Xplorer trains and country stations, including: Central, Strathfield, Parramatta, Penrith, Gosford, Maitland and Newcastle.
They will be installed and maintained by Cardiac Responder.
10 June, 2009
Coronial processes
get new life
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has issued a Ministerial Memorandum setting out the procedures process required of Ministers and NSW Government Agencies when called on to respond to recommendations of Coroners.
Signed by the Premier, Nathan Rees the Memorandum is to ensure consistent processes are followed across Government when responding to the recommendations and to increase accountability and transparency.
Mr Rees said Coroners conducted inquests and inquiries into deaths, fires or explosions and could make recommendations relating to public health and safety.
He said when a coroner made a recommendation at an inquest or inquiry they would forward a copy to the Minister who administered the legislation or was responsible for the subject of the recommendation.
Mr Rees said when a Minister or Agency received a coronial recommendation they should acknowledge receipt of the recommendation or refer the recommendation to the appropriate Minister or Agency within 21 days.
“A Minister or NSW Government Agency which receives a coronial recommendation referred by another Minister or Agency should acknowledge receipt of the recommendation to the referring Minister or Agency, the State Coroner and the Attorney General,” he said.
“Within six months of receiving a coronial recommendation, a Minister or NSW Government Agency should write to the Attorney General outlining any action being taken to implement the recommendation.”
Mr Rees said if the recommendation will not be implemented, the Minister must give reasons as to why.
“Ministers and Agencies are encouraged to provide updates to the Attorney General on any further action taken to implement recommendations following their initial advice.”
Mr Rees said if the proposed response to the recommendation involved significant changes to Government policy or budgets, the Minister should bring forward a Cabinet Minute.
The Attorney General maintains a record of all coronial recommendations made, together with the responses received from Ministers and Agencies.
A report is to be posted on the Attorney General’s website in June and December of each year.
Mr Rees encouraged State Owned Corporations to adopt the provisions.
Further information was available from www.dpc.nsw.gov.au
10 June, 2009
Long arm of law
reaches flood victims
Legal Aid NSW is offering free insurance advice to victims of the recent floods on the Mid-North Coast.
Attorney General, John Hatzistergos said many residents had suffered property damage during two major storms over the past few months.
Mr Hatzistergos said the Government had provided a free drop-in advice session to help take the stress out of making a claim following reports about the way in which some insurers were handling claims.
“After such a distressing event and the long clean-up afterwards, making an insurance claim can be confusing and stressful for families trying to put their lives back in order,” he said.
Mr Hatzistergos said Legal Aid NSW had organised a team of insurance law experts to offer free advice on household, contents or motor vehicle insurance.
He said Legal Aid would also be able to help clients lodge complaints with the Financial Ombudsman if their claim had been refused.
Chief Executive of Legal Aid NSW, Alan Kirkland advised residents to make an inventory of damaged goods, including photographs or video footage and to keep records of where and when the water first came into their home and the levels it reached.
“Residents are also advised not to dispose of damaged goods until they have been looked at by an insurance assessor,” he said.
The free legal advice clinic will be held at Coffs Harbour Legal Aid Office, 41 Little Street, Coffs Harbour on Friday 5 June, 2009 from 9am to 1pm.
Free advice is available from Law Access NSW on 1300 888 529 and the Insurance Law Hotline on 1300 663 464.
10 June, 2009
Universal healthcare
on its deathbed
Director-General of NSW Health, Debora Picone has warned that Australia is heading towards a US-style “user pays” health care system, predicting that free public healthcare could disappear in the next five years.
“We are really on the edge of losing the universal healthcare system that this country has,” Professor Picone told News Limited.
She said while she had previously predicted that it could run for another 10 years, there had been significant cost escalations and little preparation.
Professor Picone and NSW Minister for Health John Della Bosca want to see State and Federal funding pooled and then redistributed in an effort to reduce red tape and duplication.
"What we need is to improve the relationship between the various parts of the health system, make sure it works better together, and make sure of course that we stop the nonsense of cost shifting and game playing that's been happening for generations now," Mr Della Bosca said.
However Federal Minister for Health, Nicola Roxon said it was “nonsense” that free healthcare was dead.
"The commonwealth is absolutely committed to ensuring that people can have access to high quality care whether it is through their GPs or whether it is in public hospitals," she said.
10 June, 2009
Audit puts workplace
breaches on thin ice
Businesses in the NSW snowfields are being targeted by the Federal Workplace Ombudsman to ensure ski season workers are being properly paid.
Executive Director of the Federal Workplace Ombudsman, Michael Campbell said it would randomly audit around 70 resorts, hotels, motels, restaurants, bars and retail outlets at Jindabyne, Perisher and Thredbo.
Mr Campbell said the campaign had been prompted by an increase in complaints from NSW snowfield workers.
“Given the higher incidence of complaints and the fact that the snowfields attract many young, unskilled and inexperienced workers who could be vulnerable to exploitation, we feel that a targeted education and compliance campaign is warranted,” he said.
Mr Campbell said the campaign aimed to ensure short-term workers were being paid their full entitlements - including the correct hourly rate, allowances, weekend and shift penalty rates.
“Businesses selected for investigation may be asked to provide employment records for the 2008 ski season and this year’s ski season,” he said.
Mr Campbell said inspectors would work to recover money for any workers found to have been underpaid and would help businesses rectify any problems.
Under the campaign, inspectors are to conduct an educative seminar for employers at the Snowy Region Visitors Centre at Jindabyne on 18 June.
The NSW campaign follows a similar exercise in Victoria last year where the Ombudsman audited 45 businesses and recovered $22,000 for 38 casual workers who had been underpaid.
10 June, 2009
State turns up heat
on fire hazard laws
NSW Firefighters are to be given new powers to help investigate bushfires and reduce fire hazards.
Premier, Nathan Rees announced the powers, saying they had been decided upon following a review of NSW legislation.
“The past year has been a destructive year for bushfires once again with a devastating toll on property and lives,” Mr Rees said.
“We are giving firefighters the tools they need to find and prosecute arsonists and reduce the risk of fires.”
He said the Government would introduce new legislation to create powers aimed at limiting the loss of life and homes.
Mr Rees said designated officers from the Rural Fire Service and other bushfire fighting Agencies would be given the ability to remove people and objects from fire scenes, bringing them in line with NSW Fire Brigades.
“Investigators will also be able to enter private property to examine and secure evidence for up to 24 hours following a bushfire or seek warrants to undertake this work after the 24 hour period has passed,” he said.
“Amendments to the Rural Fires Act will confirm the RFS as the primary body responsible for managing hazard reduction on private lands and eliminate any possible confusion.”
Mr Rees said the issuing of hazard reduction certificates and complaints management would also be streamlined.
“Doubling the fines for common sense offences will also be an important deterrent and reduce the risk of fires starting in vulnerable areas,” he said.
Mr Rees said on-the-spot fines would double to $1,100 for minor offences such as lighting fires under total fire bans, failing to put out a fire you have lit and failing to comply with a bush fire hazard reduction notice.
“Directions from firefighters should be taken seriously and if Court action is required offenders can face maximum penalties of up to $5,500,” he said.
“A Bushfire Arson Prevention Taskforce will also be established to recommend new ways of preventing bushfire arson.”
The legislation is expected to be introduced to Parliament before the next fire season.
10 June, 2009
Regional panels to
go a country mile
Six new Regional Planning Panels are to come into operation in NSW in July to assist with decision making on regionally-significant projects.
Minister for Planning, Kristina Keneally said $2.4 million had been budgeted to establish, operate and administer the Joint Regional Planning Panels.
Ms Keneally said the Panels would provide “expertise, independence and local knowledge” when assisting with decisions.
“The panels will consist of three State Government appointed members and two nominees from the relevant Local Council,” she said.
“It will be the job of the Panels to stand in the shoes that previously would have been occupied by a Council or myself, and make decisions on projects significant to a region.”
Ms Keneally said while Councils had expressed some concerns about the Panels, they would not have to foot the bill.
“The new funding will cover the costs associated with administration of the new planning panels, as well as employment costs for the three state members,” she said.
Ms Keneally said Councils would continue to receive Development Application fees and would be responsible for the costs of their two members, as well as the usual Council notification and assessment process.
She said details of the funding had been released ahead of the State budget to allow Councils to finalise their own budgets.
“The Panels will be integral in achieving a more efficient and transparent planning system, with particular benefits expected for proposals significant to regional NSW,” Ms Keneally said.
“Council staff will assess projects to be determined by the Panels, including some coastal projects which are currently assessed by the Department of Planning.”
10 June, 2009
Annual Report all
in a year’s work
The Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority has won a prestigious award for its 2007–08 Annual Report.
The Authority won gold at the Australasian Reporting Awards, which recognised its Annual report had met world best practice reporting standards.
Chief Executive Officer of the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority, Robert Domm said making the grade in the demanding benchmarking exercise was an important win for the Foreshore Authority and its stakeholders.
“This is about providing the community with accurate information about our activities and achievements, financial performance and governance,” Mr Domm said.
“The report clearly measures our performance against what we had set out to achieve and is well-written, superbly designed and easy for readers to navigate.”
He congratulated staff who had produced the report.
“With a sustainability theme, it also highlights how sustainable management practices are becoming the norm right across our operations,” he said.
The 2007–08 Annual Report showed the Foreshore Authority exceeded over 80 per cent of its performance targets for services to clients, visitors, tenants and stakeholders, while achieving a sound financial result.
Highlights of the report included investing $46.5 million to revitalise The Rocks, Darling Harbour and other precincts, which were visited by 41.5 million people during the year.
Copies of the report were available from www.shfa.nsw.gov.au
10 June, 2009
Free finance talks
are on the money
The Federal Government is conducting free information sessions for people finding the going tough in the wake of the Global Financial Crisis.
The Coping with Financial Stress seminars will be held across Australia throughout June and will offer free information to attendees.
The seminars are to be held in regions where households are experiencing high levels of financial stress due to mortgages, significant housing costs or high levels of consumer debt.
Regions in NSW include Maitland, Wollongong and Western Sydney.
The Maitland seminar was held on 2 June, however seminars in Penrith (18 June) Dapto (23 June), Liverpool (23 June) and Wollongong (30 June) are yet to be held.
Other seminars will be held in Ipswich, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Canberra and Adelaide.
The Government has provided $60,000 to run 20 two-hour seminars to inform people under financial stress about their options and rights, and where they can find further financial help.
The seminars are being run following increasing pressure on household budgets due to the global financial crisis, and will be delivered by trained financial counselors.
Coping with Financial Stress is a pilot project under the Government’s $10 million four-year Financial counselling – enhancing existing programs (tools and materials) measure.
The project provides funding for practical tools and resources to help people build their financial management skills and take early action to avoid financial crisis.
Further information on attending seminars was available by phoning 13 63 57 between 8.00am and 7.00pm (AEST) or emailing fis.seminar.bookings@centrelink.gov.au.
Each seminar is limited to 100 people.
10 June, 2009
Councils charged
with overcharging
A review of Local Council charges for new home owners has revealed some Councils exceeded the threshold set by the State Government.
Minister for Planning, Kristina Keneally said the review followed an announcement in December last year that State levies would be reduced by up to $27,000 and a $20,000 per lot threshold levy would be introduced for Councils.
The threshold for Council levies meant costs above $20,000 could not be passed on to homebuyers.
Ms Keneally said Councils wishing to charge above the $20,000 levy had to receive her approval.
She said a contributions review panel had been appointed to review plans of Councils applying to exceed the threshold which was placed on Section 94 local infrastructure contributions plans.
Ms Keneally said 28 Councils had applied to exceed the levy threshold for 92 separate plans.
“Reducing our levies and introducing a threshold for Council levies are measures designed to boost the home construction industry and lower the cost of development,” she said.
“This has been the first time Section 94 local infrastructure contributions plans have been put under the microscope like this.”
Ms Keneally said the review highlighted inconsistencies and complexities of local infrastructure funding and planning across NSW as no two Councils used the same approach to determine contributions.
The review found of 152 Councils in NSW, 34 had plans over $20,000 per lot.
Of these only 28 requested permission to charge above the threshold; five Councils voluntarily reduced their contributions below $20,000; and one Council’s plan was only at draft stage.
Ms Keneally said following the first round of the review, which included 11 Councils she would apply the threshold to one Council.
“Four more Councils, Camden, Wyong, Liverpool and Penrith Councils have, via the review process, identified savings of between $2,000 and $18,000 per lot for relevant plans,” she said.
“The remaining six Councils have been given an exemption to reducing their levies, in nearly all cases on the condition that additional further reviews are undertaken to look into how savings can be made.”
Ms Keneally said review had been a good opportunity to work with Councils and the development industry to address infrastructure provision and housing affordability.
“In a number of cases the review highlighted a move away from Councils using levies to fund facilities required as a result of new homes in the area,” she said.
Ms Keneally said the next stages of the levy review process would be announced shortly.
10 June, 2009
No beating round bush
with wilderness areas
The declaration of 119,600 hectares of bushland as a wilderness area in Yengo National Park has completed a chain of wilderness areas that now surround Sydney.
Premier, Nathan Rees and Minister for the Environment, Carmel Tebbutt announced the completion of the chain, saying the network protected over two million hectares of bushland.
Mr Rees said the chain was made up of Nattai, Kanangra-Boyd, Grose, Wollemi and Yengo wilderness areas.
“Wilderness declaration is the highest form of protection for natural landscapes and protects the most intact expanses of our remaining bushland,” he said.
“The latest declaration over the most pristine part of Yengo National Park will protect many threatened plant and animal species.”
Mr Rees said interest groups, including Aboriginal, environment and recreational park users were consulted before identifying and declaring the area.
“We are investing in the future by protecting the environment with more than 6.7 million hectares now conserved within national parks,” he said.
Ms Tebbutt said wilderness declarations helped protect NSW’s most important natural assets.
“We are safeguarding our flora, fauna and cultural heritage by allowing the area to evolve without interference,” she said.
“Activities including horse riding and four-wheel driving will no longer be permitted in the wilderness area, but walkers and bush campers will still be able to enjoy it.”
Ms Tebbutt said the wilderness area would protect threatened species such as koalas and brush-tailed rock-wallabies, along with a number of sites important to the Aboriginal community.
“The importance to Aboriginal people and to families who regularly use the park for recreation was also taken into account during the consultation,” she said.
Ms Tebbutt said Mount Yengo had not been included in the declaration as it was of high cultural significance to Aboriginal groups around the region. The Yengo National Park spans from the Blue Mountains to Windsor and up to Singleton.
10 June, 2009
Program waters down
toilet inefficiency
Sydney Water has unveiled a program of installing water efficient devices to taps and toilets in businesses across Sydney.
Managing Director of Sydney Water, Dr Kerry Schott said the new ‘BizFix’ campaign was the first of its type in Australia and was expected to save 700 million litres of water in the first three years.
Dr Schott said installing water efficient fittings and regulating water flow in taps and toilets would help businesses reduce the amount of water used in bathrooms by around one third.
“While retrofitting amenities will save businesses money on their water bills over time, there can be a large upfront cost involved,” she said.
“BizFix allows businesses to significantly cut water use without making large demands on their cash flow.”
Dr Schott said the program involved two steps – registering and updating amenities.
Once an eligible business registers for the program, a qualified plumber will audit their amenities and provide a report outlining the results,” she said.
“Once the business has accepted the quote, Sydney Water will send a qualified plumber to complete the recommended work.
“Sydney Water will split the cost of both the initial inspection and subsequent work with the business.”
Dr Schott said Sydney Water had allocated close to $5 million to the program over the next four years.
She said businesses would pay around $280 for the water audit, while costs for the refit would depend on the amount of work that needed to be done.
“Since Sydney Water began offering the service to members of the Every Drop Counts Business Program in April this year, about 60 businesses have signed up for an audit,” Dr Schott said.
The service will initially be offered to non-residential properties using over 80,000 litres of water a day, with plans to expand the offer to smaller businesses.”
Further information was available from www.sydneywater.com.au
10 June, 2009
Tenant laws put
house in order
New laws that allow housing tenants a ‘rent holiday’ and 30 day’s notice to vacate if their homes are repossessed due to landlords’ defaulting on their loans have been introduced into the NSW Parliament.
Minister for Fair Trading, Virginia Judge introduced the Residential Tenancies Amendment (Mortgagee Repossessions) Bill 2009, saying it aimed to end the “nightmare” of families having to pack up at “the whim of the mortgagee repossessing their rented home”.
Ms Judge said the difficult financial times were exposing more investors to the risk of defaulting on their mortgages.
“Among the leading reasons borrowers default on their loans are temporary unemployment, illness or relationship breakdowns,” she said.
“Through no fault of their own, their tenants then get a sheriff’s notice to vacate their home as soon as a repossession order is granted.
“We are talking about homes and lives, not just legal documents.”
Ms Judge said the Bill would ease the pain and buy families time to relocate.
She said it was part of a range of measures approved by Cabinet last week to enhance and modernise the State’s tenancy laws.
The measures included permitting a mortgagee who becomes entitled to possession of a premise to authorise the release of the tenant’s rental bond and relief for relocation expenses by allowing tenants who receive an eviction notice to withhold all future rent payments.
Ms Judge said the remaining reforms – more than 100 in total – would be included in draft legislation available for consultation later in the year.
“The reform package is the result of a comprehensive review of tenancy laws, some dating back to the 1970s,” she said.
“Given the importance and sheer number of changes, it is appropriate for the community to comment on the draft before they are introduced into the Parliament.”
Ms Judge said community responses on mortgage repossessions had been in favour of greater protection for tenants.
She said borrowers could seek help from Fair Trading through the Consumer Credit Code, which regulates personal mortgages and other forms of household credit.
“The Code is designed to allow borrowers to seek to vary their repayments,” Ms Judge said.
“Fair Trading can negotiate with the lender on the consumer’s behalf, advise them how to seek a hardship variation through the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal, or refer them to other available services.”
10 June, 2009
Indigenous guide launched
The Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care has launched a Home Care job guide to help Aboriginal people to apply for jobs in the home care sector.
The guide provides valuable information on writing applications, what to expect at job interviews and how to seek feedback to help with further job-seeking.
The guide was available from www.dadhc.nsw.gov.au
Dam water prices announced
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal has released its final determination of prices to be charged to Sydney Water by the Sydney Catchment Authority for using water from Sydney’s dams.
The prices will apply from 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2012, and include an increase of around 8 per cent in 2009/10 and a total increase of around 17 per cent plus inflation over the period to 2011/2012
Following the determination, household water bills in Sydney are expected to increase by about $7 per annum in 2009/10 and a total of $16 per annum plus inflation by 2011/12.
Flu discrimination warning
The NSW Anti-Discrimination Board has warned the public that discrimination against people with Swine Flu is against the law.
NSW’s discrimination laws protect people who have been treated unfairly because others suspected they might contract Swine Flu, or because someone they know has Swine Flu.
Further information was available from www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au
Wind farm approved
Construction of the biggest wind farm in Australia has been given the go-ahead by the NSW Government.
The farm, to be located in Silverton near Broken hill, has had the first stage of its construction approved.
It is expected to create over 800 jobs, with the first stage projected to deliver 282 turbines to power around 200,000 households.
Further information was available from www.planning.nsw.gov.au
3 June, 2009
Purchasing leave
in new IR bargain
NSW Public Servants will soon be able to purchase extra annual leave following approval of the scheme by the NSW Industrial Relations Commission.
The Commission has approved amendments to the Public Service Conditions of Employment Award following a joint approach by the Department of Premier and Cabinet and the Public Service Association.
Senior Communications Officer for the PSA, Les Carr said the amendments included a long awaited clause on Purchased Leave that would apply to all Agencies covered by the Award.
On the PSA website Mr Carr said most Agencies not covered by the Award were expected to follow suit.
Under the new clause, Public Servants will be able to purchase either two or four weeks of additional leave within a 12 month period.
Mr Carr said the costs of any purchased leave would be covered by reducing the staff member’s ordinary rate of pay, which would be calculated by reducing their ordinary salary rate by the number of weeks of purchased leave and then annualising it at a pro rata rate over 12 months.
He said each leave application would be considered, taking into account personal needs and business and work demands.
Mr Carr said if granted, the leave must be taken in the specified period and would not attract any leave loading.
Staff taking advantage of the scheme would not be able to accrue purchased leave, but would receive a refund if they did not take it within the 12 month period.
Mr Carr said under the clause, any other leave taken during the 12 month purchased leave agreement period, including sick leave, recreation leave or leave in lieu would be paid at the reduced salary rate while overtime and salary related allowances would be based on the ordinary rate of pay (unless paid during recreation leave).
He said Higher Duties Allowance would not be paid when a period of purchased leave was taken.
DPC is expected to issue a Circular on the amendments and to place the policy document on its website.
3 June, 2009
New sick leave
rules prescribed
Public Servants in NSW who take sick leave of more than two consecutive days will have to provide evidence of their illness, under the new Managing Sick Leave Policy issued by the Department of Premier and Cabinet.
An absence review will also be undertaken if an employee has five or more unsupported absences in a year.
The Policy is described as a framework to assist the management of absenteeism, defining the responsibilities of employees and Agencies.
Director General of DPC, John Lee said in a Circular that the changes resulted from the Memorandum of Understanding in settlement of the Crown Employees (Public Sector Salaries – 2008) Award.
“The Managing Sick Leave Policy has been developed to better manage absenteeism and is part of the Government’s commitment to achieving and sustaining productive, healthy, efficient and high performing workplaces,” Mr Lee said.
Other key features of the Policy include the requirement that Agencies analyse and review sick leave data to identify trends.
Formal counselling would occur if “inappropriate” use of sick leave was suspected, the Policy states. Sanctions could be applied if these absences continued following counselling.
The Policy also encourages early intervention programs, such as the Employee Assistance Program, a confidential, independent, early intervention counselling
service for employees to address issues that may be affecting their performance.
Mr Lee said Agencies may develop their own policies, but these should be consistent with the framework and principles of the Managing Sick Leave Policy.
The changes apply to Part 1 Schedule 1 Public Service Departments under Chapters 1A and 2 of the Public Sector Employment and Management Act 2002 and agencies identified in Attachment 1 of the Memorandum of Understanding in Settlement of the Crown Employees (Public Sector Salaries – 2008) Award.
To read the full Policy, go to www.dpc.nsw.gov.au
3 June, 2009
Report takes
knife to job cuts
An Access Economics report commissioned by the Public Service Association says it would be a mistake for the NSW Government to cut Public Sector jobs and services in the upcoming Budget, given the current economic crisis.
The report, NSW Government Services in the Global Financial Crisis, said the State was “at the heart of the impending recession in Australia” and unemployment was expected to hit nine per cent by late 2010.
“It isn’t in the State’s best interest to cut Government spending at this point in time,” the report said.
The report also said that given the increased demand for Government services, Public Sector jobs should be maintained or increased in the short-term to ensure their delivery.
“Governments can play a role in mitigating the effects of economic downturns by using their Budgets in a counter-cyclical manner (maintaining or increasing Government spending at a time when private spending is falling),” the Report said.
“There is a greater need in the community for Government services at the present time (relative to periods when the economy is performing strongly.”
General Secretary of the NSW PSA, John Cahill said the report showed that the financial downturn would increase the demand on public housing, community and disability services, education and training, health, police and public transport.
"The Government should not rule out going into a short-term deficit in order to maintain these vital Government services," Mr Cahill said.
"In fact, the Government may be able to mitigate the effects of the financial downturn on the NSW economy if it is prepared to increase spending."
3 June, 2009
Call for PS to go
public on privacy
The Federal Privacy Commissioner has called on all Government Agencies to nominate for the Australian Privacy Awards, now in their second year.
According to the Commissioner, Karen Curtis, departments and agencies should receive more recognition for their good work in the field of privacy.
“Often, all the public hears about is when things go amiss,” Commissioner Curtis said, “but there is also a lot of good privacy work being done.”
“So many Agencies both meet and exceed their privacy obligations and they should be rewarded for their positive contributions to making Australia a place in which privacy is respected.”
Commissioner Curtis said the Awards program was an important way of recognising and rewarding Agencies and businesses.
The Australian Privacy Awards are divided into four categories: the Symantec Government Award for Government Agencies; the Large Business Award for businesses with over 100 staff; the Small-medium Business Award for businesses with less than 100 staff; and the Community and NGO Award for not-for-profit organisations.
Nominations are also been sought for the Australian Privacy Medal, which is presented to an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to advancing privacy in Australia.
Former High Court Justice Michael Kirby took out the medal in 2008.
Winners of the 2008 Awards were: Medicare Australia, Telstra Corporation, Data Solutions Australia, the Australian Dental Association NSW Branch and the Child Support Agency.
Nominations close 6 August 2009, with the winners announced in November and more information can be obtained from www.privacy.gov.au/about/awards/
3 June, 2009
Ferry test tender
may rock the boat
Market testing the provision of Sydney’s ferry services has taken another step forward with the Minister for Transport, David Campbell announcing two private firms have been shortlisted for possible comparison against Sydney Ferries.
Mr Campbell said the reform of Sydney’s ferry services was progressing, following the findings of the Walker Special Commission of Inquiry last year.
“Bret Walker’s recommendation was for Government to conduct a market testing exercise and we are fully committed to this,” he said.
“The market testing process is allowing Government to determine whether the private sector, or Sydney Ferries, can provide the best, most efficient ferry service for passengers,” he said.
Mr Campbell said the Government had received five responses to the Stage 2 Expression of Interest phase from local and international transport operators.
“After being assessed against their operational, safety, industrial relations and strategic capabilities, two firms have been recommended for shortlisting,” he said.
“This process is about finding the best ferry operator for Sydney and if private operators can’t beat the benchmark set by Sydney Ferries, then the new contract will remain with them.”
Mr Campbell said tender documents would be provided to the two shortlisted firms, Transdev TSL and Veolia Transport Australasia.
Tenders need to be submitted by 21 August 2009, with a final decision being made by the end of 2009.
Further information on the Sydney Ferries Market Review was available from
www.transport.nsw.gov.au
3 June, 2009
Firefighter reports
labelled hot air
The Minister for Emergency Services has rejected reports that volunteer firefighters could be held liable for negligence if the Rural Fire Service or Government was sued in Court.
The Minister, Steve Whan said the reported statements were “untrue”.
Mr Whan said the statements did not “reflect the true position” of the Government, which would defend volunteer firefighters against any claims of negligence.
“The Government has protected volunteers in legislation, and will vigorously defend against anyone who attempts to cast our volunteers as being legally liable,” he said.
“Any reports to the contrary are wrong, and they misrepresent the Rural Fires Act and the actions of Crown barristers who defend the interests of our volunteers in Court.”
Mr Whan said the NSW Government, the Rural Fire Service and the Rural Fires Service Association had rallied to throw the full weight of their support behind the legal protection of volunteers.
“The Government has never changed its position on supporting firefighters from claims of negligence,” he said.
“Section 128 of the Rural Fires Act clearly provides legislated protection from liability to all volunteer firefighters.”
He said Section 128 stated that any member of the RFS Advisory Council, bushfire coordinating or management committee was protected from any action, liability, claim or demand.
3 June, 2009
Glut of support for
DoCS flood work
Staff from the Department of Community Services have been praised by the Minister for Community Services, Linda Burney for their efforts in supporting residents affected by recent flooding.
Ms Burney said the disaster response by staff and volunteers had supplied hundreds of families with given immediate support.
“Since the rain hit, Community Services staff have helped more than 750 people at around 12 evacuation centres,” she said.
“I am proud of the way Community Service staff and volunteers banded together to provide such selfless support.
“Many of these workers pushed on tirelessly throughout the night to makes sure residents were well cared for.”
Ms Burney said staff and volunteers had established evacuation centres to provide residents with temporary refuge dry clothes, food, blankets and personal support.
“The majority of these residents would have left their homes in a hurry and were, understandably, worried about their future livelihood,” she said.
Evacuees also included children and the elderly who required special care to ensure they were safe, happy and warm.”
Ms Burney said flood-affected residents with limited financial resources and no insurance could be eligible for assistance with essential household items and repairs.
She said further information on assistance packages could be obtained by phoning the DoCS State Disaster Recovery Centre on 1800 018 444.
Ms Burney said Community Services would continue to work with residents to assess damage and provide assistance to families.
“We are committed to ensuring affected people on the NSW North Coast are provided with the ongoing support that they need to pull their lives back together,” she said.
3 June, 2009
School’s out on
Assistant plans
The Public Service Association has welcomed news that the NSW Department of Education and Training has no plans to privatise school General Assistants.
The Union had threatened to ramp up its anti-privatisation campaign unless it received an assurance from the Department that Assistants would remain Public Sector employees.
The PSA said it had received a letter from Deputy Director General (Workforce Management and Systems Improvement) of the Department, Peter Riordan stating that the Department “does not have a plan to privatise the position of General Assistants”.
A spokesperson for the Department of Education confirmed this position.
The PSA said its campaign would continue, however, and members have been encouraged to wear t-shirts, distribute “GA’s Must Stay” stickers and keep members of the school community informed of the campaign.
The PSA said the Department has also committed to consulting with the Association on changes that may be suggested by any review.
3 June, 2009
Time to be taken for
public holiday study
The Minister for Industrial Relations has launched a comprehensive review of public holidays in NSW.
The Minister, John Hatzistergos said the aim would be to provide more certainty for businesses and their staff and to avoid confusion which has arisen in the past.
Mr Hatzistergos said the review was not aimed at increasing or decreasing the number of public holidays but at simplifying and modernising the gazettal process.
“The aim is to achieve uniformity in relation to when public holidays fall,” he said.
“We want to provide certainty for workers and to avoid the confusion and disruption for businesses which has occurred under the present arrangements.”
Mr Hatzistergos urged businesses and interested parties to comment on the review, which commenced on 1 June.
“It is important that employer and industry groups, as well as organisations representing workers and community groups have an opportunity to have their say,” he said.
Professor Joellen Riley, who holds degrees in law from the Universities of Sydney and Oxford is heading up the review.
Mr Hatzistergos said Professor Riley had been teaching and researching in the field of employment and labour law for over 10 years.
“Professor Riley will consider the current and future operation of the Banks and Bank Holidays Act 1912 and issue a report recommending changes to modernise the operation of the legislation,” he said.
“The review will make recommendations for possible changes to the legislation and other instruments which affect the creation and operation of public holidays and bank holidays in NSW.”
The review is due to be concluded by October 2009.
Further information was available from www.industrialrelations.nsw.gov.au
3 June, 2009
SES pours cold
water on flood hoax
The State Emergency Service has warned the public to be on the lookout for scammers collecting money for flood victims and emergency service volunteers.
The SES and the Public Information and Inquiry Centre have received a number of reports of people conducting fake collections, which they claim will go towards helping volunteers and the victims of the recent flooding in the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast regions.
NSW Police has advised there are currently no flood appeals underway.
The SES said volunteers did not collect money during operational periods and could always be easily identified by their uniforms.
The Service said all SES volunteers carried an identification card and would be wearing either the SES orange overalls with badging or the dress uniform, which is blue and has a waratah emblem on it.
The SES said incidents of two men driving an unmarked vehicle and claiming to be door-knocking on behalf of volunteers had been reported.
Another woman said she had given her credit card details to a man pretending to be collecting donations for flood victims
The SES has advised all donations be made directly to local SES units to ensure they are of the greatest benefit to local volunteers.
It said any donations should be made outside the current operational period.
The SES has urged anyone who donated money or has been approached to donate to what could have been a scam to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
3 June, 2009
Desks cleared for
cleaner operation
The Federal Workplace Ombudsman is to target office cleaners in Sydney following a rise in complaints over pay and entitlements.
Director of Workplace Ombudsman NSW, Ross Drysdale said workplace inspectors were planning a series of surprise night-time visits to commercial buildings to ensure cleaners were being properly paid.
Mr Drysdale said a team of eight inspectors would conduct random audits of up to 30 commercial buildings during June and July.
“We will be checking that employers are paying the correct hourly rates of pay, including weekend penalties, shift penalties, public holiday loadings and allowances,” he said.
“At the same time, we want to monitor compliance with record-keeping requirements and analyse any level of sham contracting that may exist in this industry.”
Mr Drysdale said many cleaners who worked at night were international students who could be unaware of their workplace rights or reluctant to speak out if they were being exploited.
He said inspectors would provide employers, contractors and sub-contractors with appropriate information about minimum wages and entitlements for cleaners.
“By conducting a small campaign such as this, we will be able to establish whether there are significant issues within this industry that need to be addressed,” Mr Drysdale said.
“If there are, then consideration will be given to conducting a more wide-ranging campaign in the near future.”
He said the Australian Cleaners’ Association, the Liquor, Hospitality and Miscellaneous Union and the Building Service Contractors’ Association all supported the campaign.
Mr Drysdale said a report on the audits would be finalised by September 2009.
3 June, 2009
Trade a technicality
in Defence bursary
The Department of Defence has called for applications for its 2010 Defence Technical Scholarships, offering 1,500 places to Year 11 and 12 students across the country.
Minister for Defence, Science and Personnel, Warren Snowdon said Year 11 students would receive $2,000, while Year 12 students would receive $3,000 to encourage them to continue their studies.
Mr Snowdon said the scholarships highlighted the importance Defence placed on technical trades and did not oblige the student to join the ADF on completion of their study.
“Australia is experiencing a shortage of skilled technical tradespeople across all areas of industry and the Australian Defence Force is not immune,” he said.
“The Government has recognised this shortage and has designed this initiative to help increase the numbers of skilled tradespeople across the nation, and within the Australian Defence Force.”
Mr Snowdon said last year over 2,000 Schools registered for the 2009 Scholarships and that close to 600 scholarships were awarded.
“This was a fantastic result for our first year and I actively encourage young Australians out there considering a technical career to take a look at Defence and these scholarships and apply today,” he said.
Mr Snowdon said as part of the selection process, students would be asked to demonstrate their interest in pursuing an ADF technical trade career and must be studying mathematics and a relevant vocational or technical subject.
He said scholarship recipients would get the opportunity to participate in Defence experiences, events and visits during their scholarship year to highlight the many opportunities available to them on completion of a trade qualification.
Applications close on 14 August, with further information available from www.defencejobs.gov.au
3 June, 2009
Government puts money
on new gambling ads
A new campaign warning of the risks of gambling has been launched by the NSW Government.
Through Gambling Help anti-problem gambling materials such as signage, stickers and brochures will be updated and placed in State gambling venues.
Minister for Gaming and Racing, Kevin Greene said the campaign aimed to deliver a consistent and effective message to gamblers.
Mr Greene said the new materials would be displayed in pubs, clubs, Star City casino, and TAB and lottery outlets to encourage those with problems to seek help.
“We know people with gambling problems respond to gambling help information inside venues,” he said.
“These new materials create a consistent look with simple and effective messages to ensure we reach more people.”
Mr Greene said it was the first time all gaming machine venues would be required to place wallet sized contact cards promoting self-exclusion and counselling services in an easily accessible place on each bank of gaming machines.
“Striking new orange and black coloured signage and stickers with bold messages on every gaming machine will force people to think about the consequences of their gambling,” he said.
Mr Greene said messages include ‘Think! About your choices’, ‘Think! About your family’, ‘Think! About your limits’, and ‘Think! About tomorrow’.
He said updated brochures outlining the actual chances of winning would be available in five languages and that all material would display the Government’s new Gambling Help services.
Mr Greene said the signage requirements came into effect on 1 June and that gaming venues would have six months to provide the contact cards and 12 months to install new signs.
He said problem gamblers could seek help 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week by calling the Gambling Help line on 1800 858 858 or visiting www.gamblinghelp.nsw.gov.au
3 June, 2009
Tourism awards the
ticket to success
Tourism operators have been invited to enter the 2009 NSW Tourism Awards which are sponsored by Tourism NSW.
Minister for Tourism, Jodie McKay launched the Tourism Industry Council’s Awards which celebrate tourism businesses that have demonstrated outstanding achievement and success.
“These awards are about saluting the very best in our industry, those who have set the bar high and enhanced our reputation as Australia’s premier visitor destination,” Ms McKay said.
“While the industry faces challenges arising from the global economic crisis, it is important we continue to celebrate the achievements of operators in the State.”
She said she was confident all entries would show the challenging economic times had not impacted on the quality of tourism experiences in NSW.
Ms McKay said the State’s tourism industry drove employment, directly responsible for 158,000 jobs.
“It contributes more than $27 billion each year to the State’s economy, more than in any other State,” she said.
Ms McKay said last year’s awards attracted a record number of entries, with 146 finalists across 30 categories.
“Last year’s State award winners, including attractions, tour and transport operators, accommodation providers, events and new tourism developments, went on to the National Awards where they brought home more Awards than any other State,” she said.
Ms McKay said Tourism NSW was pleased to sponsor the Awards, and commended the Tourism Industry Council for organising them.
Further information was available from www.visitnsw.com
3 June, 2009
Grants make settlers
feel at home
The Federal Department of Immigration and Citizenship has announced a program of settlement grants for NSW amounting to $6.7 million and covering 77 projects.
According to the Parliamentary Secretary for Multicultural Affairs and Settlement Services, Laurie Ferguson, the Settlement Grants Program (SGP) funding would play a major role in helping new arrivals settle into the community.
Mr Ferguson said organisations which had received funding for the 2009/10 financial year included migrant resource centres, multicultural service agencies and community and welfare organisations.
“The many projects supported by the settlement grants program will help migrants and refugees to settle successfully into their new communities, promoting social participation and assisting in their cultural transition into Australia,” he said.
Mr Ferguson said ensuring refugee children and their families had a smooth transition into the NSW school system was also an important aspect of the SGP.
He said under the program, the Northern Settlement Services in Newcastle would receive $80,000.
“This funding will assist Northern Settlement Services in its work with newly arrived African primary and secondary students in Newcastle,” Mr Ferguson said.
”The organisation helps humanitarian entrants to overcome significant educational disadvantages by supporting their transition into the Australian school system.”
He said Northern Settlement Services would collaborate with schools to run an after-school homework project to support refugee parents and children trying to understand and meet curriculum requirements.
“One of the major issues we face in settling refugee children into Australia is communication difficulties,” he said.
“Many humanitarian entrants have spent years in refugee camps, with little or no schooling, and can find the Australian education system overwhelming.”
Mr Ferguson commended all organisations involved in successfully settling migrants and refugees in NSW.
A list of successful applicants in the 2009-10 funding round was available from www.immi.gov.au
3 June, 2009
Money comp makes
kids penny-wise
School students across the State have been encouraged to enter the 2009 Money Stuff Challenge competition.
Minister for Fair Trading, Virginia Judge said the Challenge was aimed at raising young people’s awareness of financial literacy and consumer issues to help make them better protected when dealing in the marketplace.
Ms Judge said the Money Stuff Challenge was in its ninth year and was a “fun and engaging” way for high school students to learn more about consumer rights.
“The youth market is seen as a very lucrative one. That is why it’s so important for our young people to know about the consumer traps that exist, and avoid being ripped off or falling into debt,” she said.
“As we celebrate Education Week 2009, I am laying down the gauntlet for all NSW students to use their creativity, get involved, and participate in the challenge.”
Ms Judge said the program addressed syllabus learning outcomes and helped students learn about consumer protection issues relevant to them.
“The program focuses on areas where young people are likely to make purchasing decisions, such as when buying a car, selecting a mobile phone, entering into credit contracts, and moving into rental accommodation,” she said.
“Students are asked to pick a challenge in one of these areas and decide what to do in the scenarios, whilst being given helpful consumer tips along the way.”
Ms Judge said the prize cash pool was valued at $16,000 and that winners would receive $2,000 for their school and $200 for themselves.
“Last year’s Money Stuff Challenge attracted entries from more than 800 students across the State, and I hope this year the competition will be bigger and better,” she said.
Applications close on 4 September, with winners announced in November 2009.
Further information on how to register was available from www.moneystuff.net.au
3 June, 2009
Organ donor bodies
grind out agreement
A new agreement has been signed between Government and health sector organisations to unify Australia's organ donation and transplantation policies and practices.
Chief Executive of the Australian Organ and Tissue Donation and Transplantation Authority, Karen Murphy announced that 46 organisations, including all eight State and Territory Governments, had signed a National Communications Charter to improve the health outlooks for Australians requiring an organ or tissue transplant.
Ms Murphy said the signatories all agreed to work together to improve the rate of organ donations across the country
"Australia leads the world in transplantation medicine,” Ms Murphy said, “but the number of donations is low by global standards.”
She said this was due to an historic fragmented approach.
"Although there are six million people listed on the Australian Organ Donor Register, on average there are 1,800 children, women and men on a waiting list for a transplant at any time,” she said.
“But in 2008 just one third of the demand was able to be met from 259 deceased donors.”
Ms Murphy said the new Charter would create a single, national team.
“After a great deal of negotiation and hard work I am very pleased the signatories have agreed.
“It's a symbolic vote of confidence by Ministers, State health departments, industry associations, community organisations and tissue banks to lift donor activity.”
Ms Murphy said the Charter united the sector under guiding principles to communicate clear and consistent messages and dispel some of the myths and misinformation in the public arena.
"Our key message to Australians is a simple one - talk today with your partner and family about your decision to become an organ or tissue donor because they are required to confirm your wish to donate life," Ms Murphy said.
3 June, 2009
Reporting rules set out
Treasury has issued a Circular setting out its financial reporting and auditing requirements for the coming financial year.
The Circular, TC09/05, applies to all agencies required to provide information to Treasury using the Treasury On-line Entry System (TOES).
The Circular includes information on the preparation of the Annual NSW Treasury Returns, a checklist of tasks for year end financial reports and a pro-forma on which to report emerging accounting issues.
The Circular can be accessed on the Treasury website, www.treasury.nsw.gov.au
Women surveyed
Public Servants have been urged to participate in a Survey on the proportion of women on boards in Australia.
The Australian virtual Centre for Leadership for Women is conducting the survey after data from the Equal Opportunity for Women in the Workplace Agency showed the proportion of women to men on corporate boards and executive leadership roles had declined from 8.7 per cent of board directorships in 2006 to 8.3 per cent in 2008.
The survey closes on 12 August 2009 and is available at www.leadershipforwomen.com.au
Medal awarded
NSW Police are the new custodians of the Dag Hammarskjold Medal, which was awarded posthumously to the late NSW Police Force officer, Sergeant Ian Donald Ward for his participation in peacekeeping operations.
The medal was awarded to Sergeant Ward by the United Nations after he died in Cyprus in 1974.
In addition to the new custodianship, a new exhibition, Peacekeepers in the service of peace has opened at the NSW Police College to outline the history and personal experiences of Australia's police peacekeepers.
NSW Ombudsman comp winner
The NSW Ombudsman has announced the winner of its 2009 Law Week Competition.
Legal studies students were invited to answer, in 100 words or less, the question, “Why is it important for young people to have access to the NSW Ombudsman?”
Mudgee High School student, James McQuiggin won a $200 book voucher for the following entry:
The Ombudsman is an integral pillar in the structure of our society as it holds up a quintessential right of the people; the power to question authority. The Ombudsman provides a vehicle of protest on neutral ground and is a fundamental link between the people and the Government. Young people especially are exposed to Government influences daily and it is important that a balance may be struck between authority and the individual. It is therefore vital that the young people of NSW have access to the Ombudsman’s office as an avenue to voice opinion, question Government authority and seek justice.
School program launched
A new program giving community and business leaders the opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the challenges of running a school will be held during Education Week.
Minister for Education and Training, Verity Firth will participate in the Principal for a Day program, shadowing a NSW public school principal and receiving a behind the scenes look at school life.
Over 50 NSW public schools will host a Principal for a Day, which is run in partnership with the Australian Council for Education Research.
New station opens
A new police station at Wagga Wagga has been officially opened.
It replaced the former facilities, which saw police officers spread across three separate locations.
Construction of the station began in December 2007 and cost $14.1 million to complete.
Afghan exhibition
Australian military forces located in Afghanistan have worked with their Dutch counterparts to produce a photographic exhibition featuring images of life in Afghanistan.
The exhibition, Out of the dust: Life in Afghanistan, documents the ongoing reconstruction effort in Afghanistan and pays tribute to the Afghan people’s determination to survive.
It was recently opened at the Law Library of the University of Sydney after being on display in Berlin, London and Washington.
Consumer awareness campaign
The Minister for Fair Trading has released a brochure aimed at increasing awareness and understanding of Consumer, Trade and Tenancy Tribunal services in Aboriginal communities.
The brochure, Getting a Fair Go, was designed and written by Aboriginal people and addresses issues such as rental bonds, purchasing cars, faulty white goods, electrical equipment and strata or community schemes.
Further information was available from www.cttt.nsw.gov.au
Tobacco crackdown
A new anti-tobacco advertising campaign has taken the 2009 ‘World No Tobacco Day’ theme of Graphic Health Warnings to the next level by featuring “hard hitting” images and warnings on cigarette packets and television screens.
The campaign, Everybody Knows, highlights that while everybody knows smoking kills, some people still smoke.
The campaign has been labeled as a “shock and awe montage of well-known smoking-related diseases”.
Tougher boat regulations
New licence regulations require people applying for power boat licences to prove they have practical ‘on-water’ boating experience.
Under the new regulations, anyone wanting a licence will have to complete a Boating Licence Practical Logbook or attend a registered training course.
The regulations came into force on 1 June.
RTA targets speeding
The Roads and Traffic Authority’s road safety campaign has been taken to Marrickville Metro.
The RTA Slow-Down Roadshow reminds motorists of the consequences of speeding and encourages them to slow down and stick to the speed limit.
The roadshow has been targeting communities with a high number of speeding related deaths, such as the Marrickville area, where 27 per cent of all fatal crashes between 2003 and 2007 were speed related.
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