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SearchArchives for May 2011
25 May, 2011
DPC pins call
on PS medals
The Department of Premier and Cabinet is seeking nominations for the 2011 Public Service Medal.
To be announced on Australia Day 2012, the medals are awarded to PS staff at the State, Federal and Local Government levels in recognition of outstanding service.
In Circular C2011-16, Director-General of DPC, Chris Eccles said outstanding service could be shown through service excellence to clients or the public; innovation in program, policy or project development; leadership; and the achievement of more efficient processes, improved productivity or better service delivery.
“The Medal is not confined to senior officers; it is available to any public sector employee regardless of grade or age,” Mr Eccles said.
He said long service alone was not a sufficient basis for nomination.
He said nominations would be considered by the NSW Public Service Medal Committee, which would recommend a list of proposed recipients to the Premier, who would then make a recommendation to the Governor-General.
He said once the recipient had been decided, the Medal would be awarded by the Governor-General.
“I encourage Directors General and Chief Executive Officers to consider nominating employees who deserve official recognition for their outstanding service,” Mr Eccles said.
Nominations close on Friday. 29 July 2011.
The Circular can be accessed at this PS News link.
25 May, 2011
Accountability call
for Aboriginal plan
A report into the Two Ways Together Aboriginal Affairs Plan has recommended that Departments and Agencies be held more accountable for improving the wellbeing of the Aboriginal people they serve.
Following an audit by Auditor-General, Peter Achterstraat, the report Two Ways Together (TWT) – The 2003–2012 Aboriginal Affairs Plan found the plan had not delivered the outcomes it was set up for.
“Despite the best of intentions, to date the Plan has not delivered the improvement in overall outcomes for Aboriginal people that were intended,” Mr Achterstraat said.
“The disadvantage still experienced by some of the estimated 160,000 Aboriginal people in NSW is substantial.”
He said the rate of unemployment and the hospital admission rate for diabetes were both around three times higher for Aboriginal people than for NSW residents as a whole.
He said there had also been a “significant” increase in incarceration rates for Aboriginals in the State.
According to Mr Achterstraat, the TWT Plan had failed to ensure accountability and as a result, best value was not obtained from the $240 million spent annually on specific services for Aboriginal people.
“I am recommending that Agencies be more publicly accountable,” Mr Achterstraat said.
“If Agencies are given money, they must be able to show at the end of the year how they spent it and how it has improved the wellbeing of Aboriginal people.”
He said poor levels of engagement between Agencies and Aboriginal people could be tackled by establishing community governance bodies to bridge the gap between people who needed services and those who delivered them.
The Auditor-General said the TWT Plan had produced some positive developments by raising public awareness and helping Agencies work together at a regional level to deliver better services.
He said Aboriginal enrolments in TAFE certificate courses had increased, as had the percentage of Aboriginal students in TAFE.
Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Victor Dominello said the Government would frame a new direction for Aboriginal affairs policy.
“While I acknowledge the complexities of closing the gap in Aboriginal disadvantage, it is clear we must build real and effective linkages between State Government and Aboriginal communities, put locally-driven solutions for economic and cultural empowerment front and centre, and involve independent and non-Government voices,” Mr Dominello said.
“One thing will be absolutely certain, political leadership and Ministerial accountability will be the cornerstones of our direction.”
The full audit report can be downloaded from this PS News link.
25 May, 2011
Upgrade makes inroads
into roads website
The Roads and Traffic Authority’s website has been updated and improved to provide more information on road projects.
Minister for Roads, Duncan Gay said the site’s new road projects section contained information on programs and projects being carried out or completed by the RTA across NSW.
“The pages are a one-stop shop for anyone interested in the progress of a particular project,” Mr Gay said.
“Just a simple click on the relevant area provides the latest update on some of the road projects being carried out by the State and Federal governments.”
Mr Gay said the road project section of the website was a fantastic tool, which had over 406,000 unique visits for the first quarter of 2011.
“The new pages have an improved look, are easier to navigate, have interactive mapping features, and include extras like animations and web video streaming,” he said.
“There also is an extensive collection of images of projects that have been completed and others still being carried out.”
He said it was an important way of communicating with communities in NSW who might be affected by or interested in a project being planned, built or maintained.
“In time, the site will be further upgraded to include more interactive web forums,” Mr Gay said.
The new road project section can be accessed at this PS News link.
25 May, 2011
Children’s factsheet
raises big issues
A new factsheet encouraging parents to allow their children more unstructured spare time has been published by the Office of Communities.
Minister for Family and Community Services, Pru Goward said families could often over-commit themselves and spend time running from one extracurricular activity to another.
She said while involving children in activities kept them active and provided them with positive experiences, it was essential to remember downtime was also important.
“Children need time to relax, have fun and play games,” Ms Goward said.
“Often children can become tired, overwhelmed and irritable as a result of having no downtime.”
She said a lack of downtime could also be hard on parents.
“Too many activities can mean less family time and, sadly, this can have an adverse effect on relationships,” she said.
“If you and your children are tired, limit the number of activities you have in a week. Having downtime is positive and healthy.”
Ms Goward said the new factsheet included tips like listen and monitor a child for fatigue or irritability; talk to a child to see which activities they enjoy and which ones they could live without; set ground rules that limit children to a certain number of activities; learn to say no and set limits; set aside family downtime; and not to forget to take time for oneself as a parent.
The Minister urged families to recognise the signs of stress, and scale down extracurricular activities if the family was under pressure.
“Keeping extracurricular activities in check can benefit the whole family in the long run,” she said.
The factsheet can be downloaded from this PS News link.
25 May, 2011
High hopes for
office tower
A major redevelopment of the John Maddison Tower court complex (JMT) has begun.
Attorney General, Greg Smith has announced that a $4.34 million contract for the first stage of the project had been let which would include the redevelopment of two and a half floors of JMT to provide the Dust Disease Tribunal and the Administrative Decisions Tribunal with “state-of-the-art headquarters”.
Mr Smith said the new facilities would include courtrooms, tribunal rooms, registries, interview rooms, chambers, offices, video-link technology and additional security.
“The Dust Diseases Tribunal will also have a sick room for seriously ill plaintiffs and a large witness box to enable multiple experts to take the stand together and give concurrent evidence - a practice known as hot tubbing,” Mr Smith said.
“Hot tubbing allows expert witnesses to discuss their evidence and eliminate or narrow issues in dispute, which can reduce the length and cost of a hearing.”
He said the contract for the first stage of redevelopment had been awarded to Donnelley Constructions which was expected to finish the project within three months.
Mr Smith said court sittings would not be affected as proceedings would relocate during the redevelopment.
He said by September, the Administrative Decisions Tribunal, located in the St James Centre in Sydney’s CBD, would relocate to Level 10 of JMT and the Dust Diseases Tribunal would move from Level 4 of JMT to Levels 11 and 12.
He said JMT and the adjoining Downing Centre court complex would see further renovations in 2012.
“Architects will be appointed shortly to design the upcoming projects, which will include a new civil registry and new jury rooms for the Downing Centre,” Mr Smith said.
He said the redevelopment of JMT and the Downing Centre was expected to cost $26.5 million over five years.
25 May, 2011
Fence mending a
lesson for students
More than 20 students and teachers from Marsden high school in West Ryde gave up their school holiday time to mend fences on Queensland farms affected by the recent floods.
The group, which consisted of 17 students, two teachers and four other volunteers, was organised by Marsden High’s careers advisor and teaching and learning head teacher, Sheryn Symons.
Ms Symons said the aim of the week long project was to give the students some real-life experience and to help others in the community.
She said the group, who worked with volunteer-run organisation BlazeAid, had early morning starts and long, full days.
“Work on the farms would typically begin about 8:30am and finish about 4pm,” Ms Symons said.
“This was luxury compared to the farmers who start at 6am every day and finish when it gets dark.”
She said the experience was not only educational for the children, but for the adults too.
“They were required to do lots of manual labour and by the time they had to leave, they left many teary eyes,” she said.
“They truly left an impression on the farmers with their hard work and commitment.”
She said one farmer told the group that they had ‘broken the back’ of the work that had to be done and he now felt able to cope and to start again.
Principal Denise Lofts said the boys returned home, excited and proud of what they had achieved.
“Helping the farmers was an exceptional, long-reaching experience for the boys and the farmers,” Ms Lofts said.
25 May, 2011
Barangaroo plan
brought into line
Laws that exempt the development of Barangaroo from environmental and planning regulations are to be ignored by the developer following discussions with planning Minister, Brad Hazzard.
Mr Hazzard said the decision to exempt the project from planning laws had been reviewed and developer Lend Lease had been asked to abide by State Environmental Planning Policy No. 55 which detailed remediation requirements for such developments.
“I have discussed with Lend Lease the government’s expectation... that there will be full compliance with the normal clean up criteria... as if it had not been amended,” Mr Hazzard said.
“Lend Lease has assured me that it will in all ways comply with the government’s requirement.”
He said the compliance would involve the preparation of a remediation action plan and a human ecological risk assessment.
He said the review of the project had been sparked by a petition against the development which contained 11,000 signatures.
Australians for Sustainable Development (AfSD) said they welcomed the move to ensure Lend Lease complied with State planning laws.
Lord Mayor, Clover Moore said she also welcomed the Government’s decision to review the Barangaroo project.
“I welcome Planning Minister Hazzard’s decision to appoint an independent chairman to conduct the review,” Councillor Moore said.
“Barangaroo provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create new foreshore parks and walkways that integrate with the CBD and provide needed office accommodation, housing, shops and cultural venues.”
Mr Hazzard said mediation talks would be held with representatives from Lend Lease, the Barangaroo Development Authority and AfSD
“Barangaroo is too important to NSW to slow the processes that are needed to bring it to reality, [but] is also far too important to allow any doubts about the integrity of the process,” he said.
25 May, 2011
Records tracking
archives fellowship
NSW State Records has opened its annual offer for the 2011 Archival Research Fellowship.
The fellowship offers a person from NSW assistance to complete an innovative and quality research project that makes substantial use of the record collection of the State Records Authority of NSW.
State Records said the successful applicant was expected to produce an article or book for publication or a website, exhibition, film or event that was significant to the people of NSW and which also promoted the collection of the State Records Authority.
The Authority said it would assist in identifying outlets for publication or public presentation of the work completed as part of the fellowship.
The Authority said the assessment panel would consider the originality of any proposals; the extent to which they would utilise the collections of State Records; the appropriateness of the methodology to be used; the extent to which the project would improve and contribute to archival and historical research in Australia; and the applicant’s research, analytic, writing and professional skills.
The Authority said any Australian citizen or permanent resident currently residing in NSW could apply.
It said any applicants who were temporarily outside NSW were welcome to apply, provided they demonstrated that NSW was their primary place of residence.
Applications close Tuesday, 14 June 2011.
Guidelines and further information are available at this PS News link.
25 May, 2011
Victims fight back
with clearinghouse
Australia’s first clearinghouse for research on how to help victims of crime has been announced for NSW by the Attorney General, Greg Smith.
Mr Smith said the Victims of Crime Clearinghouse website would be a one-stop shop for local and international research and would contain summaries of relevant articles, reports and conference papers.
He said the project would also identify areas were more research was necessary.
“Victims of crime often face complex psychological, physical and financial problems, yet there is limited research, particularly in an Australian context, about what helps them in their recovery,” Mr Smith said.
He said the clearinghouse project was launched as part of the Needs of Victims of Crime conference, which was co-hosted by Victim Services, the Department of Attorney General and Justice and the Institute of Criminology.
Mr Smith also said the Government would ensure victims of crime had a strong voice in the administration of justice.
“The Government will amend sentencing laws to allow judges to take into account - as an aggravating circumstance - impact statements given by the family and close friends of homicide victims,” Mr Smith said.
“This means a judge would have to consider the possible and probable consequences of criminal behaviour - not only the significance to society in general, but the actual effect of a specific crime upon people’,” he said.
25 May, 2011
2011 Seniors Guide
to show the way
The 2011 edition of Fair Trading’s NSW Seniors Guide has been officially launched.
Minister for Fair Trading, Anthony Roberts, said the Seniors Guide was a free consumer information guide for older Australians and covered a range of topics including Australian Consumer Law, accommodation, shopping, health, money and cars as well as useful tips on how to get a fair outcome in disputes.
Mr Roberts said the Guide included information on sales tactics where older people were at a particular risk like door-to-door selling, telephone marketing, mail order offers and internet shopping.
He said the Guide also covered recent legislative changes to the Residential Tenancies Act 2010.
“We hope every senior citizen in this State gets themselves a copy of the Guide and knows that Fair Trading and this government are here to help,” Mr Roberts said.
“Knowledge is power, so educating consumers is key to this and we encourage families to let older members know about this resource.”
He said it was also important for older Australians to know they can call Fair Trading on 13 32 20 to get help.
“We want seniors to be able to effectively assert their rights about refunds, repairs and remedies for bad or substandard goods and services,” he said.
Mr Roberts said the Guide also included tips on retirement village living, buying a car, home renovations and maintenance, and making a will.
“The Seniors Guide is a must-have publication for all older Australians living in NSW,” he said.
A free copy of the Guide can be ordered by calling 13 32 20 or online at this PS News link.
25 May, 2011
ICAC cleans up
Council manager
An investigation by the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has found alleged corrupt conduct by a manager with the Strathfield Municipal Council.
ICAC’s report alleges the manager engaged in corrupt conduct by soliciting $10,000 from the Business Development Manager of a company which was negotiating a business proposal with the Council.
The report says the Council had been looking to install parking infringement camera systems (PICS) in areas around Strathfield and the corrupt officer falsely represented that he had been authorised by the Council negotiate on it.
ICAC also found that the officer had misled his fellow Council employees in relation to the PICS technology business proposal, with the aim of gaining their favour.
The report said the corrupt officer then tried to use this purported favour by asking a fellow employee for a $10,000 payment to cover the costs of an unnamed member of the Liberal Party standing at an upcoming by-election.
ICAC found the corrupt officer had no affiliation with the Liberal Party and no candidate had been pre-selected to stand.
The Commission also found the corrupt officer had argued for leniency in a document he provided to a professional disciplinary tribunal on the basis that he had debts of approximately $10,000 made up of credit card and legal expenses.
ICAC concluded he had sought payment in this amount from the Council for his personal use.
The full investigation report can be downloaded at this PS News link
25 May, 2011
Workplace grants for
workplace safety
WorkCover NSW has announced the recipients of a $6.7 million grants program to help employers and workers’ organisations prepare for new national work health and safety (WHS) laws.
Chief Executive of WorkCover, Lisa Hunt said that in total, 24 employer associations were awarded $3.1 million, 14 employee representatives were awarded $2.1 million, and four not-for-profit group training providers were awarded funding worth $344,552.
Ms Hunt said there were a further four employer associations and one employee representative which received high risk focus area grants worth $393,487.
She said NSW represented around a third of all business activity in Australia and the new national harmonisation of WHS legislation would affect a large number of people.
“There were a significant number of applications for these grants,” Ms Hunt said.
“This demonstrates the interest in the national harmonisation legislation and I’m pleased so many have been successful.”
She said the harmonisation of WHS legislation would reduce compliance costs and the regulatory burden for employers and enable workers holding licences to work across jurisdictions more easily.
She said the grants would support not-for-profit group training organisations, employer associations and trade unions to implement a range of programs to prepare for the changes.
“These programs will be rolled out across the next 18 months and will fund educational programs that will focus on what the changes will include, and what people need to know to meet the requirements of the new legislation,” Ms Hunt said.
She said the programs would include workshops for the retail industry; training courses and fact sheets for manufacturing industry apprentices; educational site visits for small businesses; and direct mail outs, publications and telephone training for stakeholders in the agriculture industry.
The full list of grant recipients can be accessed at this PS News link.
25 May, 2011
Bee invention takes
sting out of hives
A scientist with the Department of Primary Industries, Garry Levot, has unveiled a world-first device for protecting the bee industry from a predatory beetle.
The product of seven years’ work, the APITHOR harbourage device has been patented internationally by the Department and its funding partner, the Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC).
Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson said small hive beetles were a serious pest that could now be effectively controlled with the use of this device.
“Small hive beetle is one of the most destructive pests threatening the State’s $25 million honey industry and pollination services underpinning all agricultural industries,” Ms Hodgkinson said.
“I commend Dr Levot on his hard work and perseverance in developing a simple and highly effective control device that will contribute significantly to the viability of horticulture, cropping and grazing in NSW.”
Dr Levot described the device as a refuge trap that consisted of an insecticide impregnated piece of cardboard housed in a specially designed rigid plastic shell.
“Adult small hive beetles seek refuge within the device, where they receive a lethal dose of insecticide,” Dr Levot said.
“A small opening size ensures that small hive beetles can easily enter, but bees cannot make any contact with insecticide.”
He said no insecticide residues were detected in the honey and trials had proven the device was not only highly effective, but hive health and productivity were not compromised.
25 May, 2011
Consumer challenge
right on the money
High schools students across the State have been invited to take part in the 2011 Money Stuff Challenge consumer education competition being conducted by NSW Fair Trading.
Minister for Fair Trading, Anthony Roberts said the competition was designed to target areas where young people were most at risk of making bad choices, such as when buying a car, choosing a mobile phone, shopping online or booking accommodation.
He said the competition required young people to come up with creative messages on consumer issues including scams, how to manage money and how to avoid debt traps.
Mr Roberts said the winners would share in a total prize pool of $16,000.
“The prize pool is split evenly between regional and metropolitan students, with winners to receive $2,000 for their school and $200 for themselves.”
He said if the entry was from a group of students (maximum of four), each student would receive $200.
“All categories also include highly commended prizes of $1,000 for the school and $100 for each student,” he said.
“Teachers play a key role in driving the success of Money Stuff and a $1,000 prize will be awarded to a metropolitan and regional teacher who has demonstrated great commitment to helping their students understand key consumer issues.”
Mr Roberts said the judges would assess entries by how well they promoted understanding of a consumer issue; communicated to a youth audience; explained why the issue was important; and delivered the intended message in a creative, succinct and original way.
“Since 2001, the Money Stuff Challenge has transformed more than 11,000 students into savvy consumers,” he said.
“Last year’s challenge attracted more than 1,000 entries from across NSW and I urge students to get involved to make this year’s the best ever.”
Entries close on Friday 5 August 2011.
More information about Money Stuff can be found at this PS News link.
25 May, 2011
Tourist survey
just the ticket
A survey of tourists visiting the Coffs Coast is to be used to find out what they think of their holiday in the region and to inform the local tourism industry what it could do to make their holidays better.
Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson said the Coffs Coast Visitor Profile and Satisfaction Report gave businesses the opportunity to hone their products and services as the Coffs Coast rated below the national benchmark.
Mr Ferguson said 48 per cent of visitors rated their visit as very satisfying, 3 per cent below the national benchmark.
“The Coffs Coast is a sought after holiday location, particularly for domestic visitors,” Mr Ferguson said.
“Tourism is an important economic driver injecting $2.2 billion into the Coffs Coast community and supports more than 8,600 businesses”
He said the independent report was particularly valuable, as visitors were more likely to express their honest opinions.
“Visitors confirmed in the Report that they are seeking something for the kids, good food and wine, good shopping and most of all they come to the Coffs Coast to relax and rejuvenate,” he said.
“Businesses then, need to size up their offering against these results.”
Senator for NSW, Michael Forshaw said poor weather during the school holidays only had a small impact on visitors’ overall experience.
“Perceived Christmas holiday price increases, the cost of attractions (aside from the Pet Porpoise Pool) and the price of staying in what was perceived as below standard properties were among visitors’ concerns,” Senator Forshaw said.
“A focus on marketing surrounding regions such as Sawtell and Bellingen and further investment in the history, heritage, art and culture in the region is considered to give the region a more competitive edge.”
The full report can be downloaded from this PS News link.
25 May, 2011
New family plan to
foster parenting
A new program that involves Aboriginal men in parenting and preparing for fatherhood has been unveiled by the Federal Government.
To be managed on behalf of the Government by four organisations in NSW, the Strong Fathers Strong Families project will also be funded in the Northern Territory, South Australia and Queensland.
Federal Minister for Indigenous Health, Warren Snowdon said the project would further strengthen parenting partnerships; help fathers get involved with their wives and partners during pregnancy; and interact with their children during their early developmental years.
“Fathers, grandfathers, uncles and other significant male relatives were crucial in the lives of their children,” Mr Snowdon said.
“A solid connection to family and culture gives children a great advantage in their early developmental years.”
He said the program would give men culturally-appropriate information about fatherhood and grand-fatherhood in order to strengthen their role in nurturing the development of children and providing, in return, a motivating factor for their own self care.
“The new program will promote positive, healthy, active fatherhood and grandfatherhood and involve men in the early development of children in local community and group activities,” he said.
Mr Snowdon said the projects would also provide men referral and support to attend local parenting classes, as well as health and related services as needed.
He said the Strong Fathers, Strong Families initiative was part of the nation’s first male health policy and it was succeeding in strengthening the knowledge, skills and confidence of Aboriginal men as role models for the children in their communities.
He said successful organisations in NSW included North West Slopes Division of General Practice, Southern General Practice Network, Sydney South West Area Health Service and Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health Network.
25 May, 2011
Fishcare program
seeks new starters
Fish lovers and fishing lovers from the South Coast and ACT have been invited to join the Department of Primary Industries’ (DPI) Fishcare Volunteer Program.
Fisheries Education Officer at DPI, Stephen Thurstan said two-day training sessions for the volunteers were planned for the weekend of June 4-5 at the Narrandera Fisheries Centre.
Mr Thurstan said volunteering was open to anyone who had a keen interest in recreational fishing and was over the age of 18.
“Fishcare volunteers play a vital role in promoting responsible fishing practices in the community,” Mr Thurstan said.
“They do a terrific job in advising anglers about the rules and values of sustainable recreational fishing in NSW at events such as fishing competitions, four-wheel-drive vehicle shows and field days.
He said they also played a part in teaching younger anglers responsible fishing practices through children’s fishing workshops.
Mr Thurstan said training would include presentations on the State’s recreational fishing fee, fishing rules and regulations, conservation and fish habitat, catch and release techniques, fisheries research, the volunteer codes of practice, DPI policies and communication skills.
“You don’t need any formal qualifications but some knowledge of angling and the aquatic environment is useful,” he said.
“Volunteers have no enforcement powers but this is an important community program that provides a vital link between the anglers of the State and NSW DPI.”
More information on volunteering, training and recreational fishing can be found at this PS News link.
25 May, 2011
Tenancy feedback
The Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal is seeking feedback on the new Residential Tenancies Act 2010, which commenced on 31 January 2011.
The CTTT are looking for feedback on changes made to printed application forms and the online lodgement of tenancy and social housing applications.
More information can be found at this PS News link.
Surfer joins brigade
Professional Surfer from the Central Coast, Jess Grimwood, was among 20 recruits who graduated at the Fire and Rescue NSW State Training College.
Ms Grimwood, whose father and uncle were both firefighters, graduated alongside four other female recruits at the college at Alexandria.
The graduation ceremony was the first for 2011.
Scholarship on offer
Chartered Secretaries Australia (CSA) is calling applications for its annual scholarship to study for the Graduate Diploma of Applied Corporate Governance.
Applicants must be employed in the PS for 12 months or more, hold a minimum bachelor’s degree or equivalent and submit a 2,000 word essay on a topic of PS interest.
One scholarship will be made available for each State and Territory and each is valued at over $12,300.
For more details contact the CSA at this PS News link. Entries close 1 July.
Photo competition open
The Australian Museum’s Up Close and Spineless Photographic Competition is calling for entries from photographers of all ages.
In its tenth year, the competition looks for pictures of invertebrates ranging from beetles and bugs to bluebottles and caterpillars.
Entry costs $10 for the school categories and $15 for the Open and Professional categories.
The best images are to be displayed in the Australian Museum in October and the winners awarded a $600 voucher for photography supplies.
Information on the competition and how to enter is available at this PS News link.
Fishing award presented
The inaugural award for outstanding contribution to recreational fishing in NSW has been awarded to Bruce Schumacher.
Deputy Director General of the Department of Primary Industries, George Davey said Mr Schumacher was a most deserving recipient after his 25 years as chairperson of the Advisory Council on Recreational Fishing.
He said Mr Schumacher has played a key role in the implementation of major fishing initiatives and policies throughout his time as chairperson.
“I thank Bruce for his ongoing dedication to recreational fishing and congratulate him on his award,” Mr Davey said.
18 May, 2011
PS pay policy
confirmed
The new NSW Government is to continue with the Public Service wages policy of its predecessor pegging any payrises to 2.5 per cent and requiring savings in return.
The move was announced by the Premier, Barry O’Farrell and Minister for Finance and Services, Greg Pearce, both saying it would strengthen Budget discipline.
Mr O’Farrell said annual wage increases across the Public Sector had averaged four per cent since 2007, but only 54 per cent of the promised savings had been achieved
“The NSW Government is taking steps to ensuring that the key parameters of the wages policy are actually achieved,” Mr O’Farrell said.
He said the wages policy would be set out in a disallowable Regulation, which would allow the Legislative Council final say on wage increases while preserving the Industrial Relation Commission’s (IRC) power to enforce the policy.
Mr Pearce said savings would be required before increases were passed on.
He said the Government would legislate to ensure the IRC considered the Government’s wages policy when making PS awards.
“We want to ensure we are able to afford future wage increases,” Mr Pearce said.
“These initiatives will ensure the funds will be available to pay for awards determined by the Commission.”
He said the wages policy sought to strike a balance between maintaining the real value of wages for the PS and the ability of the Budget to fund wage increases.
Mr Pearce said the IRC had specifically rejected the existing wages policy, which had placed the Budget position at significant risk.
“Our proposed approach will simply ensure the policy adopted by the former Government is actually implemented by the IRC,” he said.
“The revised approach to public sector wages will apply to cases currently before the Commission and all future cases.”
Mr Pearce said the policy would not apply to State Owned Corporations or to those employed in Sydney Ferries or RailCorp, which were covered by the Federal Industrial Relations system.
18 May, 2011
Ferry service floated
for outsourcing
Reforms to Sydney’s ferry services have been announced by the Premier, Barry O’Farrell and Minister for Transport, Gladys Berejiklian.
Mr O’Farrell said the Government would adopt recommendations from the 2007 Walker Inquiry into Sydney Ferries to give Sydney Harbour a ferry service that matched its “world class status”.
“In accordance with our longstanding commitment to greater involvement of the private sector in the delivery of ferry services, the NSW Government will seek Registrations of Interest from suitable companies to run our ferries,” Mr O’Farrell said.
He said the Department of Transport wanted to hear from ferry service operators about what new services they could provide, which existing services could be improved and what they could do to deliver a ferry service that commuters and tourists wanted to use.
He said the reform was designed to make public transport more appealing and encourage commuters to leave their cars at home.
Ms Berejiklian said it was great news for commuters as it would see the reinstatement of hundreds of ferry services which had been cut.
“We believe ferry reform is essential,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“Existing services need to improve but there also needs to be an increase in capacity to provide a real public transport option for commuters and a better tourist experience for visitors and for locals exploring Sydney Harbour.”
She said the Department would retain control over fare structures and routes, while the contract would include staff and safety obligations.
“The new operator will have a service contract with the Integrated Transport Authority which will set out all its obligations,” she said.
“The private sector has proved it can operate a quality service for commuters by delivering successful high speed ferry services between Manly and the Sydney CBD.”
Ms Berejiklian said Sydney Fast Ferries patronage had seen a 341 per cent increase in the year from April 2010.
“The experience of the private sector shows there is an enormous appetite for an efficient service,” she said.
“People want to be able to travel on our harbour.”
She said a project team, which included expert advisers in finance, commercial, legal, operational, fleet and probity areas, had been established in the Department of Transport and registrations of Interest for franchising existing services must be lodged with the Department by 31 May 2011.
18 May, 2011
Transport audit is
drive for change
The Auditor-General has called for improvements in the regulation of dangerous goods on NSW roads.
Releasing the report of his performance audit Transport of Dangerous Goods, Auditor-General, Peter Achterstraat said work was needed on the extent of compliance checks carried out by the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) and WorkCover NSW as well as the reporting of incidents.
Mr Achterstraat said only 20 inspections were carried out State-wide in 2008-09 and 303 in 2009-10.
“While efforts are underway to improve information, it is difficult to get a clear picture of where the risks to human life and the environment are greatest,’ Mr Achterstraat said.
He said different Agencies needed to work together to share information and use their resources more effectively.
“The NSW Centre for Road Safety reported nearly 60 crashes involving transport of dangerous goods in 2009-10,” he said, “however, the Office of Environment and Heritage received reports of only 11 incidents in the same period.
“Agencies who share responsibility for regulating the transportation of dangerous goods must work more closely to better use their resources and target areas of greatest risk.”
The Auditor-General said there was little evidence that the OEH and WorkCover were sharing information on the transportation of dangerous goods and breaches of Regulations.
He said the OEH could work more closely with the RTA when issuing dangerous goods licences to reduce the chance of licences being fraudulently obtained.
He said the good news was that even though there were only limited Government inspection programs by the OEH in the four years up to 2010, the number of crashes of heavy trucks carrying more common types of dangerous goods had been gradually decreasing.
“It is pleasing that accidents involving the transportation of dangerous goods are on the decline and that there have been recent improvements in the number of inspections,” he said.
“But our regulatory regime has been weak with little coordination between agencies and knowledge about the transportation of dangerous goods in this State.”
The Auditor-General’s full report can be accessed at this PS News link.
18 May, 2011
ICAC lays down
law for Councils
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) has recommended new laws requiring Local Councils to establish mechanisms for internal audit as a statutory function.
Arising from an investigation into alleged corrupt conduct at Burwood Council, ICAC made its recommendation to the State Government saying it would help improve systems in Local Government across the State.
The ICAC recommendations have been welcomed by Local Government bodies, the Institute of Internal Auditors – Australia (IIA), the NSW Public Sector Audit Committee Network (NSW PSACN), the NSW Division of Local Government Managers Australia and the Local Government Internal Audit Network.
Spokesman for the NSW PSACN, Jason Masters, said the reputations of local governments had been severely impacted by the number and nature of scandals that were affecting the sector.
“We’re therefore delighted that ICAC has had the foresight to propose measures that will secure the long-term viability of all NSW Councils,” Mr Masters said.
He said if adopted, the ICAC recommendations would bring the Local Government sector into line with national best practice, which widely recognised internal audit as fundamental to good governance.
“Taxpayers, shareholders and investors have all benefited from the assurance provided by internal audit that their organisations are operating lawfully and efficiently,” he said.
“It’s time ratepayers had the same safeguards.”
Technical Manager at the IIA, Stephanie Koehn said she was concerned about comments that internal audit reviews would sacrifice the workplace rights of Council staff.
“Internal audit is a cooperative and collaborative process focused purely on ensuring the organisation is operating well and in compliance with relevant laws and policies,” Ms Koehn said.
“Internal audit already exists in countless organisations whose employees have expressed no legitimate grievances concerning interference with their workplace liberties.”
Ms Koehn said the majority of Council staff, executives and Councillors were doing the right thing.
“I’m confident they would see internal audit as an ally and resource to help them do their jobs better and enhance the organisation’s performance as a whole,” she said.
18 May, 2011
Law reformers dust
off dust diseases
The NSW Law Reform Commission (LRC) has released a Consultation Paper on compensation given to relatives of people who have died from dust disease.
Law Reform Commissioner, Emeritus Professor Hilary Astor said the aim of the Paper was to achieve fairness for the families of victims of dust diseases.
She said the NSW LRC was calling for submissions on questions raised by the paper, with particular consideration to the “Strikwerda principle”.
She said the Strikwerda principle reduces the amount a family member can claim in compensation if a relative dies as a result of dust disease.
Professor Astor said this principle refers particularly to asbestos and mesothelioma.
“It is important to provide compensation for the pain and suffering of asbestos victims and their families,” Professor Astor said.
“However, any potential change to the law also needs to be fair to insurers and to compensation funds, in particular the Asbestos Injuries Compensation Fund under the James Hardie agreement.”
She said the Commission was consulting on six options for reform which included no change to the current law; the abolition of the Strikwerda principle; and options that would involve more significant departures from the existing principles.
She said the deadline for submissions was 17 June 2011 and the full Consultation Paper could be downloaded from this PS News link.
18 May, 2011
Premier signs off
on public petitions
New rules governing the treatment of petitions in the Parliament have been announced by the Premier, Barry O’Farrell.
Mr O’Farrell said the delivery of his “people petition pledge” would improve accountability and give the community a greater voice within the Parliament.
“I’m pleased to announce petitions signed by 10,000 or more people will be debated in the Parliament,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“We promised to be an accountable government and this will ensure issues of concern to the community get a voice in Parliament.”
He said his aim was to put people back at the centre of the decision-making process and allow them to make a direct contribution to the Parliamentary agenda.
He said it would inject more democracy into State Parliament by giving power back to the people and making sure they didn’t feel “locked out” of the democratic process.
He said previous Governments had treated petitions with contempt.
“I’m determined to restore respect for the Parliament,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“That’s why we’ve introduced laws to stop the early shutdown of Parliament ever again and to give people’s petitions a voice.”
18 May, 2011
Ambulance sounds
alarm on hot water
The NSW Ambulance Service has issued a warning to parents and carers to take extra care with hot water as the temperature falls.
Responding to a spike in incidents in which children and the elderly have suffered burns from hot water bottles, hot baths and hot drinks, the Ambulance service said people should be aware of how easily and quickly someone could end up in hospital as a result of being burnt.
Since the weather has become cooler, paramedics have had to respond to several incidents where children and adults received burn injuries.
The Ambulance Service said some incidents included a two year old Mortdale girl who suffered burns from hot bath water; a 51-year-old Ermington woman who scalded her leg by spilling hot water; a 55-year-old Prairiewood woman who received burns to her thighs and buttocks after her water bottle exploded during the night; and a 69-year-old man who suffered second degree burns from hot bath water.
Paramedics warn that people needed to check their hot water bottles and avoid filling them to the top; test their bath water before getting in; avoid leaving containers or cups filled with hot liquid within a child’s grasp; watch children around heaters; and never place clothing on heaters.
The Ambulance Service said if a person was burnt an ambulance should be called by dialling 000; the burn area should be cooled with running water for no less than 20 minutes; ointment, cream or butter should not be applied to the burn; and if possible, all jewellery should be removed from the burned area.
18 May, 2011
Volunteering plan
a work in progress
A new Volunteering Strategy is to be developed by the Office of Communities.
Premier, Barry O’Farrell said the Strategy, which was announced during National Volunteer Week, would build on the “invaluable” contribution made by volunteers around the State.
“Each year, our 1.7 million-plus volunteers contribute more than 235 million hours of voluntary work in NSW,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“This effort has been estimated to be worth a remarkable $2.4 billion to the NSW economy.”
He said without the volunteers, NSW would not enjoy most of the local level sporting, artistic, cultural and environmental activities it did.
He said the Strategy would add strength to NSW communities by fostering more volunteering.
Minister for Citizenship and Communities, Victor Dominello said the development of the NSW Volunteering Strategy would include consultation with grassroots volunteers, volunteering sector NGOs, businesses who helped their staff volunteer, and people who weren’t volunteering but wanted to.
Mr Dominello said volunteering in NSW had a participation rate of 32 per cent in Sydney and 38 per cent in regional NSW without the help of a strategy.
“According to the available data, we know that NSW can improve this community participation compared to other States, and lead the way in volunteering,” Mr Dominello said.
“That’s why it’s timely and appropriate for the NSW Government to reach out to the sector and bring new energy to a common strategy.”
He said the Government would work with volunteering stakeholders to consider a range of initiatives to provide more support for greater participation in volunteering.
He said it would recognise and harness volunteering in multicultural communities better; help encourage participation by retirees, young people and families; encourage more digital and distance volunteering; assist volunteering organisations with emerging management challenges better; and encourage more business and corporate sector participation in volunteering.
18 May, 2011
Gardens plant seeds
for 195th birthday
The Royal Botanic Gardens in Sydney is to celebrate its 195th birthday in June.
Acting Executive Director of the Gardens, Brett Summerell said the celebrations would be held on Monday 13 June, on the Queen’s birthday long weekend.
Dr Summerell encouraged families to come to Australia’s oldest botanic garden and enjoy entertainment and a birthday trail for the kids.
He said entertainment would include a free concert by the Wiggles stars Dorothy the Dinosaur and Fairy Clare, songs sung by the Children’s Choir, a giant floral inspired cake, face painting, botanical craft and train rides.
“The purpose of our party is, in a fun way, to raise community awareness about the importance of our Gardens,” Dr Summerell said.
“We’re linking the past to the present and looking towards the future and highlighting the major role plants play in everyone’s lives.”
He said the day would help people understand that it was important we didn’t take our Gardens, or the planet, for granted.
“From now, leading up to the 195th birthday party and counting down to our 200th birthday in 2016, we want people to think about the future of all three of our Gardens: the Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney; the Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at Mount Tomah; and the Australian Botanic Garden at Mount Annan,” he said.
“It’s important our Gardens thrive for the next 200 years and we’re planning significant new initiatives to address the big issues for the future.”
Dr Summerell also encouraged Australian and international visitors to make a wish for their future, which would be hung on a wishing tree.
Wishes can be sent to i.w...@rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au
18 May, 2011
Experts targeted in
tribunal factsheet
The Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal (CTTT) has published a new factsheet on engaging an expert to support a case before the Tribunal.
The factsheet has been developed for parties engaging an expert to address particular facts in a case, particularly for matters of a technical nature, most commonly in home building and motor vehicle disputes.
The factsheet covers issues such as what to consider before engaging an expert; the requirements of expert reports; compliance with the Chairperson’s Direction Expert Witness Code of Conduct; and conflicts of interest.
The factsheet encourages anyone who might want to engage an expert to consider the expense of doing so in relation to the value of the dispute before the CTTT.
It provides information on what an expert is; how to find one; and when it would be appropriate to seek expert evidence or advice.
Once an expert has been engaged, the fact sheet outlines ways in which experts from each party to a dispute can meet in an “expert conclave” to address any differences in their evidence.
It also outlines ways in which conflicts of interest can be identified and avoided.
Finally, the factsheet sets out the appropriate structure of the expert’s report; the uses for the report and some tips on other relevant literature that may help parties before the tribunal.
The new CTTT factsheet can be downloaded from this PS News link.
18 May, 2011
Unfair scams worry
Fair Trading
Consumers have been warned to avoid a telephone scam involving callers claiming to be endorsed by NSW Fair Trading.
Minister for Fair Trading, Anthony Roberts said Fair Trading has continued to receive reports of scammers offering to reimburse overcharged bank fees.
“Already this week, four reports have been received from Bathurst and two from Orange, as well as one each from Lithgow, Worrigee, West Pennant Hills, Bonnyrigg and Dunedoo,” Mr Roberts said.
“Since the start of the year Fair Trading has received nearly 60 reports from across the State so this is a major concern.”
He said consumers should hang up if they receive similar phone calls and under no circumstances should they make payments or provide or confirm bank details.
“Of significant concern is that these scam callers now appear to have a lot of personal information about the people they are calling,” he said, “including dates of birth, who people bank with and also, in some cases, account types and some numbers.
“Scammers will target residents indiscriminately, so everyone needs to be very wary.”
Mr Roberts said anyone contacted by scammers should report it to Fair Trading on 13 32 20 or online at this PS News link.
He said scammers traded in deception and people should warn their elderly family members, friends and neighbours about the scam.
“For every complaint received by Fair Trading, you can safely assume there are others out there getting taken in and taken for their money,” Mr Roberts said.
“Often victims are embarrassed to report they have been scammed, but they shouldn’t feel that way because the scammers use sophisticated and convincing techniques.”
He said more information on scams could be obtained from this PS News link.
18 May, 2011
Workplace watchdogs
put bite on employers
Inspectors from the office of the Fair Work Ombudsman have visited around 1,000 businesses in the Newcastle-Hunter region in the past year, assisting them to understand the laws relating to workplaces.
Fair Work Ombudsman, Nicholas Wilson said the informal visits allowed inspectors to promote the Agency’s educational tools and resources.
Mr Wilson said the visits targeted mostly small to medium-size employers previously covered by the NSW industrial relations system and aimed to explain key changes such as the National Employment Standards and the introduction of Modern Awards.
He said inspectors had distributed information packs which included factsheets, employment templates and Best Practice Guides.
He said inspectors had also conducted a number of targeted campaigns over the past year which focused on international students, the shuttle-bus and coach industry and the metal industry.
Mr Wilson said his Newcastle office had recovered more than $1 million for employees who were underpaid last financial year.
He said to the end of March, the office had already recouped another $740,000 this financial year.
He said an ‘industries’ section of the Fair Work website provided information specifically tailored for employers and workers in retail, cleaning, clerical, hair and beauty, security, horticulture, fast food and hospitality industries.
Mr Wilson said information was also available through Fair Work’s infoline on 13 13 94, or online at this PS News link.
“These resources are excellent tools for assisting employers to understand and comply with workplace laws and are freely available,” he said.
18 May, 2011
Heater warning puts
heat on parents
The onset of cold weather has prompted Fair Trading to remind parents of the need for safety when using electrical appliances near children’s clothing.
Minister for Fair Trading, Anthony Roberts said colder weather meant families were starting to use heaters and buy new winter nightwear for their infants, toddlers and pre-schoolers.
Mr Roberts urged people to take care to inspect their old heaters carefully and avoid using them if they had suspect wiring or dodgy connections.
“Don’t buy a new heater if it doesn’t carry the correct approval marks as these heaters could be illegal and put your life and your family’s lives at risk,” Mr Roberts said.
“Retailers and consumers can check any prospective heater purchase by looking at the appropriate approval marks on the NSW Fair Trading website.”
He said old LPG cabinet heaters that were now banned from sale could pose a serious fire or explosion risk.
He said parents should also check labelling on children’s nightwear and select clothing with the low fire danger label.
“Avoid garments with the high fire danger label unless they can guarantee their children will never go near fire or radiators,” he said.
He said more information was available by calling 13 32 30 or visiting this PS News link.
18 May, 2011
Army salutes 24
Reserves’ bosses
Twenty-four employers in NSW have been recognised for their support of staff who were members of the Australian Defence Force Reserves.
A special ceremony was organised by the NSW Defence Reserves Support Council to recognise the employers who it said supported their Reservist employees either by developing a supportive leave policy or by releasing them for military service.
Head of Defence’s Reserve and Employer Support Division, Major General Paul Brereton said the awards clearly demonstrated the value Defence placed on its relationship with employers of Reservists.
Maj Gen Brereton said it was critical that Defence work closely with employers to build mutual understanding.
The Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, David Feeney said without upport from their employers, it would not be possible for Reservists to harmonise their civilian and uniformed roles and provide such great service.
Among the employers to be recognised were Government organisations such as the Department of Corrective Services, Silverwater Corrections Facility; Fairfield City Council; NSW Police Force; RailCorp; Riverstone High School; Sydney Water; the University of Sydney; Wollondilly Shire Council Australia Post’s Sydney West Letters Facility; the Australian Federal Police’s Diplomatic Protection Unit; and TAFE NSW’s Chullora Campus.
More information about the Awards and the support available for ADF Reservists and their employers is available at this PS News link or by calling 1800 803 485.
18 May, 2011
Airservices trainee
course takes off
TAFE NSW is to host the third intake of technical trainees chosen by Airservices Australia to undergo its Diploma of Electronics and Communications Engineering course at its Wagga Wagga campus.
General Manager of People and Change at Airservices Australia, Peter Ward said the 15 trainees would have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge equipment and systems as the nation’s air navigation service provider rolls out a five-year capital expenditure program.
Mr Ward said the course was supported by a trade-specific curriculum and training facility.
“Last month the trainees completed the final stage of their induction with tours of Airservices facilities in Melbourne, as well as field trips to radar installations at Mt Macedon and Gellibrand Hill. They also had the opportunity to visit the Airways Museum at Essendon Airport,” Mr Ward said.
He said over the course of two years, the trainees would learn about communications, surveillance, navigation aids and data systems to help give them the skills to maintain Australia’s high-tech air traffic control equipment.
“This is an ideal opportunity for young people and those with an interest in combining theoretical and practical learning to gain an industry-recognised qualification while learning skills which will be needed to ensure the future of Australia’s robust air navigation system,” Mr Ward said.
He said the trainees were selected from more than 140 applicants nationally, came from all around Australia and the group was made up of school leavers and people looking for a career change, and includes four women.
He said while they would be based at Wagga Wagga throughout training, field placements at Airservices locations around the country would provide them with vital practical experience working on equipment such as instrument landing systems, radar and other air navigation aids.
He said the intake followed the graduation of the first group of 15 trainees in October 2010, who had since taken up permanent positions with Airservices around the country.
18 May, 2011
Water runs out
for weed control
Lake Mulwala is to be lowered over the next couple of months to control the invasive aquatic weed Egeria densa.
The Murray-Darling Basin Authority, in conjunction with Goulburn-Murray Water, said it was planning a partial drawdown of Lake Mulwala to about halfway (2.5-3m) in late autumn and winter.
Dr Tony Dugdale from the Victorian Department of Primary Industries, said the first phase of the lowering would commence after Easter, and the water level would be lowered, by about 10cm per day, to about 123.5m AHD (compared to Full Supply Level of 124.9 m AHD).
He said at this level, diversions to the major irrigation channels should not be affected.
Dr Dugdale said in the second phase, to commence mid-May, the water level would be dropped by up to 30cm per day to about 122.2 m AHD, and the water level would be held close to this level until mid-July.
He said refilling of the lake was expected to begin in mid-July, ready for the start of the irrigation season.
Dr Dugdale said the expected reduction in Egeria density would provide recreational and tourism benefits in warmer months in years to come.
He said the weed, commonly known as dense waterweed, was a non-native weed that had formed dense clumps in Lake Mulwala and had affected recreational activities, as well as power station and fishway operation at Yarrawonga Weir.
Dr Dugdale said since the full drawdown of Lake Mulwala in winter 2009, had been successful in reducing the density of Egeria across the bed of the lake, however Egeria had recolonised in some of the shallower parts of the lake.
“A partial lowering this year will be beneficial in reducing the density of the weed before it once again impacts on lake usage,” Dr Dugdale said.
He said the plan may be altered in response to weather and river conditions over the coming months.
18 May, 2011
Bridge security probe
Premier, Barry O’Farrell has ordered a review of Sydney Harbour Bridge security.
Mr O’Farrell said the review followed an incident which disrupted peak hour traffic and would investigate security patrols, CCTV, physical protection barriers and criminal charges and penalties.
“The response from the Police, RTA and other authorities today was good, but we need to learn from today’s incident,” Mr O’Farrell said.
Chart of Accounts adopted
A Ministerial Memorandum has been released advising the heads of Departments and Agencies that they are to adopt the Council of Australian Governments’ standard chart of accounts for their financial record keeping.
The Memorandum, M2011-08 Standard Chart of Accounts, clarifies the mandatory nature of the requirement and sets the introduction date of 1 July 2011.
The Memorandum can be accessed at this PS News link and the standard chart of accounts at this PS News link.
Circular on Reserves Day
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has issued a Circular encouraging Departments and Agencies to allow eligible employees to attend Reserve Forces Day Parades.
The Circular, C2011-15 Reserve Forces Day Parades 2011, says the parades will be held in Sydney on Sunday 3 July 2011, as well as in regional locations.
It says eligible employees and their partners should be encouraged to attend wherever possible.
The Circular can be accessed at this PS News link.
Figures show charges stick
The NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) found that the vast majority of people charged with criminal offences in 2010 were convicted of at least one offence.
BOCSAR’s figures show that 89 per cent of those appearing in the Local Court, 86 per cent appearing in the Children’s Court and 84 per cent of those in the Higher Criminal Courts either pleaded or were found guilty of at least one offence.
It also found the workload of criminal courts has decreased in the Local (9.4 per cent), Children’s (10.3 per cent) and Higher (6.2 per cent) Courts.
IR runs business week
NSW Industrial Relations will be coordinating MicroBiz Week, targeted at homebased and micro business owners.
The week, from 30 May to 3 June 2011, will allow micro business operators to experience the latest in business ideas, learn new technologies, attend practical business workshops and network with other business owners.
More information can be found at this PS News link.
Supermarkets fined
The NSW Food Authority has fined two large Sydney supermarkets falsely describing the origin of fruit for sale.
Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson said it was the first time Coles and Woolworths had been fined for Country of Origin labelling breaches.
“Consumers are conscious of where their food comes from and are right to expect honesty when it comes to labelling,” Ms Hodgkinson said.
Treasures Roll open
Nominations are open for the 2011 Hidden Treasures Honour Roll, launched as part of Volunteer Week.
The project, which was started last year, is designed to formally acknowledge the efforts of rural women and increase community spirit.
To submit a nomination or to find out more, visit this PS News link.
Scholarships awarded
A record number of scholarships has been awarded for the 2011 Defence Technical Scholarship program.
The scholarships, awarded to year 11 and 12 students, are designed to offer high school students some first rate opportunities to extend their career opportunities.
They provide $2,000 for Year 11 students and $3,000 for Year 12.
A full list of recipients and more information can be found at this PS News link.
11 May, 2011
Finalists logged on
to ICT awards
The finalists have been announced in the 2011 Australian Government ICT Awards.
In a field of 19 that includes Agencies from most States and Territories, two finalists are from NSW, both in the Applications Development category.
The Commonwealth’s Special Minister of State, Gary Gray said the Awards program recognised the most outstanding initiatives in eGovernment across a number of ICT disciplines.
Mr Gray said this year’s 62 nominations were received in the categories of Applications Development; Geospatial; Government 2.0; Project Management; and Service Delivery.
“The Awards promote excellence in the use of ICT in all spheres of Government in Australia and help us build agency capability,” Mr Gray said.
“This is the fifth year of the Awards and each year they have continued to expand both in breadth and in the number of nominations submitted.”
He said the NSW Department of Education and Training had made the final with its Essential Secondary Science Assessment online practical component which provided a yearly State-wide test for 14 year olds to supply diagnostic information to raise the profile of science in schools and the community.
He said it was available to 349 government schools and a total of 31,845 students had completed the 20 minute test.
Mr Gray said the implementation of such a large multimedia test in real time was groundbreaking.
He said the other finalist from NSW the Local Government and Shires Association for its VendorPanel.com/Local Government Procurement (LGP) web application.
He said the application was simple and secure and allowed Council staff to get quotes and proposals from LGP Preferred Suppliers.
Mr Gray said the application was accessible to 152 Councils throughout the State and had managed competitive sourcing from LGP preferred suppliers worth an estimated $26 million.
He said Award winners would be announced at a special dinner, held in association with CeBIT Australia 2011, on 1 June 2011 at the Sydney Convention Centre.
He said finalists in the ICT Professional of the Year Award had also been announced with the Department of Defence’s Headquarters Joint Operations Command J6 staff from and the Defence Material Organisation’s Peter Priddle competing for the honour.
Mr Gray said nominations for the ICT Young Professional of the Year would be open until 14 June 2011.
To submit a nomination, visit this PS News link.
11 May, 2011
Ambulance survey
goes for the doctor
The Ambulance Service of NSW is to take part in a national survey to gauge the satisfaction of its patients.
Acting Chief Executive of the Ambulance Service of NSW, Mike Willis said 1,300 emergency patients had been chosen randomly to receive a survey designed to measure patient satisfaction with a range of ambulance customer service related issues and associated attributes.
“Past surveys have enjoyed a high participation rate,” Mr Willis said, “which indicates that the people of NSW are interested in knowing how we are performing as an organisation compared to our peers in other States.
“The data we receive provides us with an opportunity to learn more about what our patients think of the care we provide and to help us to do our job.”
Mr Willis said the Ambulance Service provided over 1.1 million emergency and non-emergency responses each year, with an average of 3,056 responses a day.
He said that meant someone required ambulance assistance every 28 seconds in NSW.
He said he recognised the potential sensitivities in surveying patients who might be unable or unwilling to complete the questionnaire for personal or health-related reasons but aid all information collected would remain strictly confidential and no personal information would be released to outside Agencies or individuals or to other Ambulance staff.
11 May, 2011
Researchers do job
on classification
Guidelines for advancement to the classification of ‘Research Scientist’ have been revised for 2011.
According to the Department of Premier and Cabinet (DPC), a number of minor amendments have been made to the classification to better reflect current practice, and provisions have been included to allow the Research Scientist Classification Committee to consider the limitations on employees working part-time or on leave.
Entry to the classification is open to all staff, regardless of their status as permanent, temporary, full-time or part-time employees.
The classification is designed to recognise the importance of science in the Public Service by providing a career structure for scientists employed in the PS who execute and publish original scientific research.
DPC has invited applications from officers seeking entry into the classification; scientists currently in the classification seeking to progress to a higher level; and scientists seeking to continue in the classification in accordance with the guidelines.
Applicants are required to meet certain criteria and demonstrate their achievements to the Research Scientist Classification Committee.
The Guidelines outline the details of classification, pay rates and the assessment criteria for each level of the classification.
They say the levels of the classification are Research Scientist; Senior Research Scientist; Principal Research Scientist; and Senior Principal Research Scientist.
They state that any person seeking entry to the classification is expected to have completed a minimum of 12 months service in their current departmental position undertaking scientific research as a significant part of their duties.
The Guidelines state that any applicant must also have a minimum qualification of a PhD in a scientific or relevant field.
Failing that, the applicant must have a Research Masters Degree with evidence of published research.
The Guidelines also outline general expectations for the scientific research activities applicable to all levels of the classification.
Applicants for classification must submit a pro-forma online application, available at this PS News link, and a written application to their Department addressing the criteria.
Submissions close on 1 June 2011, with interviews to be scheduled for after 1 August.
A full version of the Guidelines can be downloaded from this PS News link.
11 May, 2011
Budget paves way
for road funding
Public infrastructure is to receive a kick-along from measures announced in the 2011-2012 Federal Budget.
Commonwealth Minister for Infrastructure and Transport, Anthony Albanese said the national Government would provide $2.4 billion over the next financial year to contribute to a list of large and smaller scale projects throughout the State.
Mr Alabanese said the Commonwealth’s 2011-2012 Budget would increase funding of capital works in NSW by $339 million.
“This brings our total transport related infrastructure investment in the State to a record $12.1 billion,” Mr Albanese said.
He said funding would be provided in 2011-12 to further accelerate the duplication of the Pacific Highway; undertake the Scone Level Crossing; commission the Richmond Bridge Approaches Congestion Study; and commence planning work on the Tenterfield Bypass and Bolivia Hill upgrade along the New England highway.
He said funding would allow work to start on a number of major projects including the improvement of freight rail networks through Sydney’s northern suburbs to Newcastle ($840 million); the construction of the Holbrook Bypass on the Hume Highway ($220 million); and the construction of the Bega Bypass on the Princes Highway ($68 million).
The Minister said the Commonwealth would also continue its support and funding of the State’s road safety initiatives.
He said $24.1 million would be provided to eliminate another 95 black spots on local roads and $7.1 million would go towards establishing and maintaining rest stops and other roadside facilities used by truck drivers.
“We will also continue funding a range of initiatives designed to make our highways and local roads safer,” he said.
Mr Albanese said Local Governments would also benefit from the Budget, with $289 million provided to assist New South Wales Councils to maintain and upgrade local roads.
11 May, 2011
Lobbyists nobbled
by no-fee rule
New laws are to be introduced banning success fees for lobbyists in NSW.
Premier, Barry O’Farrel said success fees were payments over and above the normal service fees when a desired outcome was achieved for a client.
“This is a move which will help clean up politics in NSW,” Mr O’Farrell said. “Lobbyist success fees not only raise questions about access, but also decisions.
“Those fees create incentives for lobbyists to cut ethical corners and undermine public confidence in government.”
He said the fees could create a climate conducive to corruption.
Mr O’Farrell said the proposed legislation would provide penalties such as fines up to $55,000 for a corporation, $22,000 for an individual and the confiscation of any success fees
He said any lobbyist who charged a success fee would face the risk of de-registration.
He said the Director-General of the Department of Premier and Cabinet could remove lobbyists from the register, or refuse to register them at all, if their conduct had been unethical.
“This ban is supported by the Independent Commission Against Corruption and follows a similar ban by the Queensland Labor Government,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“Political lobbying is a legitimate activity but it must be done appropriately and in accordance with proper ethical standards.”
11 May, 2011
Light rail plan
on right track
The City of Sydney has thrown its weight behind a light rail system for George Street, offering to inject $180 million into ensuring the project succeeded.
Lord Mayor, Clover Moore said it would be the single largest investment made by the Council since the Sydney Olympics.
Councillor Moore said she was prepared to work with the State Government to rework one of the city’s most congested routes.
“Everyone knows light rail is the solution to the gridlock in the city,” Councillor Moore said.
“We are putting our money on the table to help make it a reality and so Sydney residents, workers, visitors, businesses and tourists get the maximum benefit.”
“Our investment is dependent on the State Government building light rail down George Street which all our research shows is the optimal route into the city centre.”
She said the Council also recommended George Street be pedestrianised between Bathurst and Hunter Streets.
She said light rail was not just about tracks on the road, if done right it could be great for small business and would change how the city worked and felt.
“We want Sydney to be an easy city to get around in for the millions of motorists, bus passengers, cyclists and pedestrians who travel on our streets, ferries and bridges every day,” she said.
“Right now congestion is crippling our city and it’s not going to get any better unless we radically rethink the way our city works and how people move around.”
Councillor Moore said the cost of congestion for Sydney businesses and residents was $3.5 billion a year, and was expected to double by 2020.
“Light rail networks get people across the city faster and more easily and have extremely low environmental impacts.
“A four carriage light rail train can transport up to 8,000 people per hour.”
She said City of Sydney would not have to borrow any funds for the project and as a result, there would be no additional cost to ratepayers, no new taxes and no rate increases.
She said the draft Plan and Budget would be debated on 16 May 2011 and if passed, would go on public display for a month.
11 May, 2011
Inspectors inspected
in Fair Trading class
Thirty newly-graduated Fair Trading inspectors and investigators have been presented with their certificates of investigation by the Minister for Fair Trading, Anthony Roberts.
Mr Roberts said each of the officers performed a crucial role at the forefront of Fair Trading’s compliance program.
“Fair Trading inspectors are responsible for removing unsafe toys from our shelves, ensuring real estate agents work ethically and professionally and checking the safety of gas and electrical equipment,” Mr Roberts said.
“They also ensure tradespeople such as plumbers and home builders have the correct credentials to perform their work.”
He said the inspectors were critical to public safety and consumer certainty.
He said 15,435 inspections and 1,969 investigations were carried out during 2009/10 and 943 penalty notices were issued and 428 matters proceeding to prosecution.
Mr Roberts toured the Fair Trading’s Parramatta head office and met some of the 380 workers who work there and make up over a third of Fair Trading staff.
“Fair Trading serves an important role in our community and I was delighted to meet and talk to the frontline staff who deal with consumers and traders every day,” Mr Roberts said.
MP for Parramatta, Geoff Lee said the Parramatta Fair Trading Centre serviced local consumers and traders across Western Sydney, dealing with around 13,000 enquiries each year.
“The people of Western Sydney benefit from this first rate facility with its focus on consumer protection and promoting a fairer marketplace for all,” Mr Lee said.
11 May, 2011
Teacher bonuses a
first class plan
A national system of pay bonuses for Australia’s teachers has been announced by the Federal Government.
Prime Minister Julia Gillard said the Commonwealth would provide $425 million over the next four years to ensure every classroom teacher in the country was eligible for a bonus payment.
Ms Gillard said this would mean around one in 10 teachers would receive a bonus - about $8,100 for those with most experience and around $5,400 for a teacher in the first few years of their career.
She said the first bonuses would be based on performance in the 2013 school year and paid in early 2014.
Ms Gillard said teachers were vital to ensuring children got a good start and while few had joined the profession for the money, most people would agree that the best teachers should be rewarded.
“We know that independent research conducted as recently as this year shows that a system of meaningful appraisal and feedback for teachers can increase their effectiveness by 20 to 30 per cent,” Ms Gillard said.
She said the method of assessing a teacher’s performance, the Australian Teacher Performance Management Principles and Procedures, would be fair and equitable.
She said the Principles and Procedures would include a range of evidence such as lesson observations, student performance data, parental feedback, and teacher qualifications and professional development undertaken.
She said the existing Teacher Quality National Partnership and other reforms had been making a difference in Victoria where models of school-based and teacher-based rewards in Government and independent schools were already being trialled.
Further information is available from this PS News link.
11 May, 2011
Premier takes stand
for sitting days
New laws guaranteeing that Parliament sits until at least Australia Day each election year have been introduced by the Premier, Barry O’Farrell.
Mr O’Farrell said the new legislation would ensure Parliament sat long enough for all Questions on Notice to be answered and for Committees to hear evidence until late January.
“There will be no early shutdowns before Christmas to avoid scrutiny,” Mr O’Farrell said, “the Government of the day will be accountable for its actions right up until late January.
“In future, a Government will only be able to prorogue Parliament before an election from Australia Day onwards.”
Mr O’Farrell said provision would be made in the legislation to allow the Governor to close Parliament in exceptional circumstances.
He said this would be necessary in the event a Government lost its majority in the Legislative Assembly, which would be extremely rare.
The Premier said the legislation was put in place to avoid a repeat of last year’s shutdown of Parliament in December.
He said he would ensure that a similar shutdown would never happen again.
“This legislation will restore confidence in the laws relating to the proroguing of Parliament and return integrity to Government,” Mr O’Farrell said.
11 May, 2011
Police audit is one
for the books
An audit of police crime statistics by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) has revealed that police are accepting more reports of criminal incidents as genuine.
Standard operating procedure requires any report of crime to police to be accepted unless there is verifiable information which indicates the crime did not occur or was very unlikely to have occurred.
BOCSAR found that over the 24 months to September 2010, less than two per cent of all crimes reported to NSW Police were rejected.
The Bureau’s report said the number of rejected reported crimes fell by 5.3 per cent in the 12 months to September 2010 to 12,533 incidents, compared to 13,235 incidents in the previous 12 months.
BOCSAR said the fall in rejected crimes was particularly notable for the offence of non-domestic assault.
It said 12 Local Area Commands recorded downward trends, with the biggest changes in Newcastle, down 66.9 per cent and Sutherland down 63.2 per cent.
BOCSAR identified one area of concern regarding an increase in rejected sexual assault incidents in Bankstown.
It found the rejection rate rose from 11 per cent to 33 per cent.
The Bureau’s analysis suggested that up to half the incidents rejected may have been rejected in error.
BOCSAR recommended that the NSW Police Force Crime Recording Standard include more complex examples of situations in which a crime should and should not be rejected.
Director of BOCSAR, Don Weatherburn said the results were extremely encouraging and the Bureau would be publishing all future audits of police crime statistics on its website.
“The openness and transparency of NSW Police Force in relation to crime recording stands in marked contrast to the situation in other parts of Australia such as Victoria, where there is limited access to crime data and there is no independent scrutiny of crime recording” Dr Weatherburn said.
A full copy of the report can be downloaded from this PS News link
11 May, 2011
Language program
is talk of the town
A consortium led by the Department of Education and Communities has been awarded three contracts by the Federal Department of Immigration and Citizenship to teach English to migrants.
The consortium will target migrants in the regions of Northern Sydney and Other Rural and Regional, Hunter/Newcastle Rural and Regional and Illawarra/Wollongong Rural and Regional areas.
Announcing the contracts the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) said service providers for the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP) were selected after a rigorous evaluation process considering technical merit, relative risk and financial viability of each tenderer.
It said the new AMEP business model would deliver a greater focus on settlement and on providing guidance to clients, both during their participation in the program, and as they exited the program.
It said participants in AMEP would also benefit from increased educational and vocational counselling; access to further English as a second language courses; and education, employment and vocational training.
It said eligibility for AMEP had been extended to 15 to 17 year olds who had discontinued their schooling within the first year of arrival in Australia.
The Department said participants would still have access to free child care and multiple learning delivery modes including classroom tuition, home tutors and distance/e-learning.
It said the contract for providing services would start on 1 July 2011 and expire on 30 June 2014.
The program is delivered in more than 250 locations around Australia to more than 50,000 people from 193 countries.
11 May, 2011
Gallery unveils
new art space
A new floor for contemporary art has been unveiled at the Art Gallery of New South Wales.
The gift of the John Kaldor family collection, valued at over $35 million, was the catalyst for public funding of an offsite storage facility to allow space within the Gallery to display the collection.
The Gallery said donations from the Belgiorno-Nettis family enabled the re-development of its old storage area and existing display space to create a new floor with 3300 square metres of exhibition space.
The new floor will feature the John Kaldor Family Gallery, a suite of contemporary and modern galleries, a dedicated photography gallery and a study room for the Gallery’s works on paper collection.
The new space will also see a number of commissioned and site-specific works of art which included five vast wall drawings by Sol LeWitt, a major wall work by Richard Long and an installation by Ugo Rondinone on the large stairwell that descended into the John Kaldor Family Gallery.
The Gallery plans to hold an open weekend on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 May, including keynote talks by leading international and Australian artists, floor talks by Edmund Capon and John Kaldor, and an extensive performance and film program.
11 May, 2011
Artificial reef is
the real thing
The Department of Primary Industries has announced the construction of a new artificial reef off the coast of Sydney.
The Department said the construction of the reef, which would cost $900,000, was expected to begin later this year after many years of consultation and planning.
It said the project was the first of three offshore artificial reefs planned for NSW over the next five years and was expected to greatly improve recreational fishing opportunities off the coast of Sydney and provide habitat for bottom-dwelling and oceanic fish species such as snapper and yellowtail kingfish.
The Department said the reef would be located about 1.2 kilometres off The Gap at Vaucluse and 1.9 kilometres off South Head.
It said each artificial reef unit was made of steel and would be placed at a water depth of 38 metres, stand 12 metres high and weigh around 42 tonnes.
The Department said scientists would monitor the Sydney reef for three years to assess the impact of the project and its effectiveness.
It said funds from the NSW Recreational Fishing Trust would be used to pay for the project, and were a good example of recreational licence fees being put back into the fishing community.
11 May, 2011
School stats show
enrolments on a roll
Figures compiled by the Australian Bureau of Statistics have revealed that enrolments in some NSW public schools are continuing to rise.
The Illawarra and South East, New England, Northern Sydney, Sydney and Western Sydney regions all recorded increased enrolment share in the past year.
Northern Sydney Regional Director with the Department of Education and Training, Jane Simmons said for the fifth consecutive year, Northern Sydney had recorded an increase in enrolment and last year catered for almost 60 per cent of students in the area.
“Our schools in Northern Sydney provide exceptional curricula and extracurricular opportunities that support the learning of the whole child,” Mrs Simmons said.
“Our communities of schools work collaboratively in sharing and supporting quality teaching and learning.”
Regional Director in New England, Jim White said secondary enrolments in New England were strong and reversed a previous decline with more than 72 per cent of the area’s students enrolled in public schools.
Mr White said one of the reasons for the turnaround was the region’s diverse curriculum.
“We have one of the highest percentages of students doing part-time traineeships and apprenticeships, as well as both school and TAFE-delivered courses as part of their senior studies,” Mr White said.
“Parents can see that our schools provide a diverse range of opportunities.”
Regional Director for the Illawarra and South East, Maria Gray-Spence said the area had secondary enrolments at 70 per cent and high schools were working together to provide a broader range of curriculum options for senior students.
“They are also working with their partner primary schools to ensure a smooth transition for primary students to their local high school,” Ms Gray-Spence said.
Regional Director for Sydney, Phil Lambert said his area had a clear focus on stakeholder relationships.
“We use the communities of schools to promote the various flavours and strengths of all the public schools in the local area, rather than having individual schools engaging in self-promotion,” Dr Lambert said.
Western Sydney Regional Director, David Phipps said schools in his region operated across highly organised and cooperative learning communities
“The region has strong links with the University of Western Sydney, Macquarie University, TAFE NSW and the business and industry sector,” Mr Phipps said.
“The enrolments are testimony to the state’s public education system and the hard-working principals and teachers who are dedicated to providing our students with a high quality education.”
More information can be accessed from the Bureau of Statistics website this PS News link.
11 May, 2011
White collar law
to be loosened
Laws regulating the behaviour of company executives involved in criminal misconduct on behalf of their corporation are to be simplified.
Attorney General, Greg Smith said the complexity of laws that regulate when company executives could be held responsible for the criminal conduct of a corporation were too complex.
“Simplifying corporate fault laws will make it easier for companies and executives to understand and comply with their legal obligations,” Mr Smith said.
“Reducing the complexity of compliance is likely to result in time and cost savings for companies, which could ultimately lead to savings for consumers and better outcomes for shareholders.”
He said the changes were in line with new principles endorsed by the Council of Australian Governments.
“The principles are designed to bring national consistency to this area of the law and promote effective corporate compliance and risk management,” Mr Smith said.
He said the national principles included that a corporation should be held liable in the first instance when it contravenes a statutory requirement; directors should not be liable for corporate fault as a matter of course; and there must be compelling public policy reasons for a director to be held personally liable for a company’s wrongdoing.
“Retaining personal liability for corporate fault in limited circumstances will help ensure executive officers take seriously their corporate governance obligations,” Mr Smith said.
He said the new laws would not protect directors and executives who deliberately engaged in criminal behaviour.
11 May, 2011
Weather Bureau
settles on radar
A new weather radar has been completed in Wollongong, bringing real-time, detailed weather information to the Illawarra region.
Located at Appin, the radar was switched on in February, with the final works enabling wind speed measurements and accumulated rainfall estimates.
NSW Regional Director for the Bureau of Meteorology, Barry Hanstrum said the radar was an important tool in the Bureau’s State and national forecasting and warning services network.
“Due to its topography, the Wollongong region is particularly susceptible to heavy rains and resulting flash flooding,” Mr Hanstrum said.
“Weather radars such as this one play an important role in helping the community better prepare for extreme weather events.”
He said one of the most extreme weather events in recent history, the Dapto floods of 1984, happened near Wollongong.
“Major flash flooding also occurred in 1998, and more recently in March of this year,’ he said.
Mr Hanstrum said the Wollongong radar marked the first of a number of projects under the Federal Government’s $48 million Strategic Radar Enhancement Project.
He said the remaining projects would be rolled out over the next six years across Australia.
The Bureau is to host two free seminars on Wednesday 25 May at 2-4pm and 6:30-8:30pm to encourage community education in the use of weather radar information.
To register an interest in the seminars (2pm and 6.30pm), or find out more, visit this PS News link.
11 May, 2011
Car allowances up
The Department of Premier and Cabinet has released a Circular outlining changes to the cost of Senior Officer motor vehicle packages.
The Circular says running costs will increase per kilometre due to increasing fuel costs and an increase in maintenance costs.
It said changes to SES/Senior Officer motor vehicle charges took affect from 1 April 2011 and parking space levy charges announced by Circular 2010-29 were current until 30 June 2011.
The Circular, C2011-14 SES/Senior Officer Motor Vehicle Charges 2011 – 2012, can be accessed at this PS News link.
Council elections
Local Government elections will be held for Shellhabour City Council and Wollongong City Council.
The elections will restore local representation three years after the Councils were sacked.
A one-off, five year term will be legislated to avoid another election in 2012.
Eligible residents and ratepayers will go to the polls on 3 September 2011.
Comment on bank trading
NSW Industrial Relations has called for public comment on an application for weekend bank trading in NSW by Citigroup.
Citigroup is seeking approval to open its Queen Victoria Building Branch on Saturday and Sunday between 10:00am and 4:00pm.
The Director-General must consider whether it is in the public interest to allow the bank to open.
Comments from any interested parties must be submitted by 13 May 2011.
Globe awards open
Nominations for the 2011 Green Globe Awards close on 16 May 2011.
Minister for the Environment, Robyn Parker will host the award ceremony were the winners will be announced.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available and more information can be accessed from this PS News link.
Park plan released
The Booderee National Park has released its draft management plan.
Director of National Parks, Peter Cochrane said everyone was welcome to tell the park their thoughts on the draft plan.
“This plan will guide all our activities in the park for the next 10 years,” Mr Cochrane said, “from looking after the natural and cultural heritage of this beautiful place to providing the best experience we possibly can for our many visitors.”
The plan can be downloaded from this PS News link.
Bail report out
Reoffending The NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) has released a report into re-offending in NSW
BOCSAR found almost 60 per cent of people convicted and 80 per cent of juveniles convicted of at least one offence in a NSW criminal court in 1994 were reconvicted within 15 years.
Re-conviction was lowest among those convicted of sexual assault at 42 per cent, weapons and explosives offenses at 43 per cent, fraud at 46 per cent and drink/drug driving at 47 per cent..
The report also found suggestions that police refused bail to juvenile offenders at low risk of reoffending were not supported by evidence.
A study conducted by BOCSAR sampled 23,667 juveniles and found that almost all juvenile defendants refused bail were at high risk of re-offending.
Police enlist recruits
One hundred and eleven new recruits have been welcomed into the NSW Police Force at an attestation ceremony in Goulburn.
NSW Police Commissioner, Andrew Scipione said the recruits, two of whom identified as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background, ranged in age from 19 to 44.
He said the Probationary Constables would complete 12 months’ on-the-job training.
4 May, 2011
Privacy goes public
in Privacy Week
The Privacy Commissioner has launched Privacy Awareness Week encouraging people to think about the security settings on their social networking sites.
Acting Privacy Commissioner, John McAteer said Australians were among the highest users of social networking sites in the world.
He said millions of people on social networking sites were putting their privacy at risk by failing to consider their profile security settings.
“While social networking is clearly a popular way for people to communicate, it has its risks in terms of privacy,” Mr McAteer said.
“Users of these sites need to check their profile settings to ensure that only the people they wish to communicate with have access to their personal communications.”
He said people could minimise the risks of social networking by checking and maintaining their security settings.
The Australian Privacy Commissioner, Timothy Pilgrim also offered advice to Government Agencies dealing with privacy issues saying they had particular responsibilities under the law to make sure the personal information was handled according to strict rules.
Mr Pilgrim said these included giving sufficient notice about why personal information was being collected and how it would be used and disclosed.
“It must also be stored securely and destroyed or de-identified if it is no longer needed,” the Commissioner said.
He said privacy tips for Government Agencies and businesses included making sure IT systems were secure and up-to-date; not collecting personal information that was unnecessary; telling people why their personal information was needed, what it would be used for and how long it would be kept; making clear who would have access to it; and taking steps to destroy or de-identify it when it was no longer required.
Mr McAteer announced that the Asia Pacific Privacy Authorities had also launched an international survey seeking information on social networking and privacy, and had produced a new web video illustrating what could go wrong.
“The Privacy Awareness Week ‘tips for safe social networking’ and the important message in the video and survey should help users to better understand the need for privacy,” Mr McAteer said.
“This is especially so in the online world where instances of personal and private information being shared and sometimes ‘going viral’ are daily occurrences.
He said tips for social networking included knowing the privacy policy of the social networking sites you use; thinking about the information you share; and asking for consent before posting and tagging photos.
“Unwarranted attention, sometimes leading to ‘cyber stalking’ and other crimes, is an all too common and increasing by-product of lax privacy security,” Mr McAteer said.
He said more information on Privacy Awareness Week and the social media survey could be found at this PS News link.
4 May, 2011
Boaters praised for
being shipshape
NSW Maritime has been congratulated following the safest boating season on record and a fatality-free Easter weekend.
Minister for Ports, Duncan Gay praised the boating community, boating industry stakeholders and NSW Maritime and its partners in safety for achieving such a good result.
Mr Gay said fatalities and serious injuries were well down on past year-to-date figures, with an 86 per cent drop in fatalities and a 55 per cent drop in serious injuries.
“It is the best result for boating safety on record,” Mr Gay said.
“With only three fatalities recorded in the period, it is 50 per cent lower than the previous record low achieved in the 2003-04 season.
“But I think we all agree that one fatality is one too many, which is why we will work to further improve safety for all boat users.”
Mr Gay said in the period up to Easter Monday there were three incidents involving fatalities, down from 21 in the previous year. There were also 26 incidents involving serious injuries, down from 58.
He said there were 169 recreational vessel incidents, which was down from 254 last year and 34 commercial vessel incidents, down from 54.
Mr Gay said new lifejacket laws were introduced which require lifejackets to be worn more frequently and on more vessels.
He said an 11 year old boy and a 43 year old man were recently rescued unharmed from the swamping of their vessel offshore at Crowdy Head thanks to their lifejackets.
4 May, 2011
Bypass Alliance heads
straight for award
A partnership involving the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA), has won an award in the annual Safe Work Australia Awards.
The Ballina Bypass Alliance (BBA), made up of the RTA and four private companies won the award for Best Workplace Health and Safety Management System – Private Sector.
A second winner from NSW, David Germany from Country Energy, Queanbeyan, was announced the winner of the Best Individual Contribution to Workplace Health and Safety Award.
General Manager of the Work Health and Safety Division at WorkCover NSW, John Watson, congratulated the two winners and said their national recognition was well deserved.
“A safe workplace is a competitive workplace,” Mr Watson said.
“These winners have made safety a priority in their workplaces and their businesses have seen significant benefits as a result.
“I commend them for their innovation, leadership and commitment to safety and reducing injuries, and congratulate them on their fantastic achievements.”
He also congratulated two other NSW finalists, Hazmat Services and Toyota Material Handling Australia, on their achievement in being among Australia’s 38 safest businesses and individuals.
Chair of Safe Work Australia which conducted the awards, Tom Phillips said the awards recognised the important work organisations and individuals were doing to make work health and safety a top priority and ensure everyone returned home safely from work each day.
“More than 135,000 Australians are seriously injured at work each year and more than 260 die as a result of work-related injuries,” Mr Phillips said.
“This can be prevented through the adoption of safer work practices.”
Mr Watson said the NSW Safe Work Awards would be held during Safe Work Australia Week in October and encouraged any NSW business or individual who made safety a priority to enter.
He said the winners from the State Safe Work Awards would be in the running for the Safe Work Australia Awards.
More information on the Awards can be found at this PS News link.
4 May, 2011
NSW schools pass
improvement test
A report from the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) recommends NSW receive around $46 million in reward payments for achieving excellence in the National Partnership on Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN).
The report from COAG’s Reform Council found NSW had exceeded 11 of its 12 improvement targets under NAPLAN, which involved 147 Government, Catholic and independent schools.
Acting Director-General of the Department of Education and Communities, Pam Christie said the report validated the hard work taking place under the national partnership.
“We are directing the resources to where they are needed the most and this report confirms our strategy is working,” Ms Christie said.
“The reward payments, if granted to us by the Commonwealth, will fund further education initiatives in NSW schools.”
She said NAPLAN which was an agreement between the Commonwealth, State and Territory governments, aimed to deliver sustained improvements in literacy and numeracy outcomes for all students, especially those who were falling behind.
She said the priority areas for reform were effective and evidence-based teaching of literacy and numeracy, strong school leadership and whole-school engagement with literacy and numeracy, and monitoring of student and school literacy and numeracy performance to identify where support was needed.
Ms Christie said the schools selected for the National Partnership were those whose students were performing substantially below expectations.
“Our targets were very clear,” she said, “to improve the reading and numeracy performance of these students.
“We also wanted to improve teacher capacity and performance and focus on developing whole-school improvement frameworks.”
The COAG Reform Council’s report can be downloaded from this PS News link.
4 May, 2011
Education atwitter
over social media
The Department of Education and Communities has published social media guidelines to assist teachers and staff participating in online conversations with students and others via Facebook, Twitter and other social media platforms.
The 12 new guidelines apply to all staff in the Department and encourage them to identify themselves, be honest and “be human”.
The Department said the guidelines promoted the responsible use of social media and could be summarised by urging staff to know and follow department policies including the Code of Conduct; to be honest, polite and considerate; to use common sense; be apolitical and impartial; and demonstrate NSW public education values (fairness, respect, integrity and responsibility).
It highlighted the need to be careful when publishing content online, as everything on the internet had the potential to be archived and indexed by search engines.
It said the guidelines were designed to promote responsible use of social media by its employees, in line with the standards set out in the Department’s Social Media Policy.
The guidelines were provided to support staff as they engaged in digital media conversations and interactions for official, professional and personal use.
Other guidelines for users included being aware when mixing work and personal lives; to be transparent and to identify themselves; to consider what they say before they say it; to use discretion; play fair; to stick to their area of expertise and to admit mistakes.
The guidelines also provide direction for establishing official departmental social media networks, blogs, microblogs, message boards or image/video sharing sites.
The full set of guidelines can be downloaded from this PS News link.
4 May, 2011
Apple island
losing appeal
State Public Servants in Tasmania are concerned that PS job cuts may be on the table after the Opposition obtained documents under Freedom of Information laws.
Tom Lynch, from the Community and Public Sector Union, said the union was demanding to see the detail of the Government’s redundancy plans.
He said a letter from Treasury to Government agencies allegedly outlined strategies approved by Cabinet to cut the public sector wage bill, including vacancy control measures, early retirement incentives and targeted voluntary redundancies.
Mr Lynch called on Premier Lara Giddings to end the uncertainty.
“What I would be guessing there is the Government is planning to put out a redundancy program even lower than the one that it ran last time,” Mr Lynch said.
“Two weeks (pay) for each year of service is below market standards”
He said if the Government was making decisions to make PS staff redundant it should at least pay them community standard amounts.
He said some staff were being told to take $20,000 and go because the offer may be less later on.
Shadow Treasurer Peter Gutwein said Premier Giddings had no intention of imposing forced redundancies on the public sector but she had been overruled by her Cabinet colleagues.
“This document is devoid of any mention whatsoever of the Premier’s preferred plan and that is to have a forced redundancy program,” Mr Gutwein said.
The Premier said the Government was exploring all options to achieve the savings required.
4 May, 2011
CHOGM to swallow
up 500 volunteers
The search is on for up to 500 volunteers to help run the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Perth in October.
Federal Minister for Skills and Jobs, Senator Chris Evans, said there was now just six months to go before CHOGM.
“In six months time, more than 50 delegations from around the Commonwealth will arrive in Perth for the largest gathering of world leaders ever seen in Australia,” Senator Evans said.
“The role of volunteers will be critical to the success of this major event.”
He said the 500 volunteers were needed to help showcase Australia, welcome visitors from across the globe and deliver a safe and secure event and the Government was working with Volunteering WA to implement the CHOGM 2011 Volunteers Program which will recruit, train and manage the volunteers for the event
“This is a unique opportunity for Western Australians to participate in a major international event and interact with delegates from all over the world,” Senator Evans said.
He said volunteer roles included transport assistance and providing support and information to delegates.
Chief Executive of Volunteering WA, Mara Basanovic said as well as ensuring the smooth running of the event, volunteering also provided personal benefits for individuals.
“Volunteering changes the lives of those who give as well as those who receive,” Ms Basanovic said.
“CHOGM 2011 will provide a unique opportunity for volunteers to demonstrate the warmth, generosity and hospitality of Western Australia to fellow members of the Commonwealth family.”
Senator Evans said CHOGM 2011 would be held from 28 to 30 October 2011 and would be the biggest international event to be held in Perth for almost 50 years.
People interested in volunteering for CHOGM 2011 should visit this PS News link to find more information.
4 May, 2011
City’s night-time plans
seek bright ideas
The City of Sydney is calling for ideas and suggestions on how to improve the city’s nightlife.
Lord Mayor, Clover Moore said Sydney was developing, for the first time, a policy for its night-time economy
Councillor Moore said clubbers, venue operators, businesses, residents, retailers and city visitors would be asked to contribute ideas.
She said the consultation process would look at what infrastructure and services were required and what sort of activities would take place.
“Many different groups of people want different things,” Councillor Moore said, “so we are bringing everyone together to find the best solutions and to finally open Sydney late at night.”
She said the consultation would begin with a roundtable meeting with industry leaders from liquor and gambling, restaurants, retail, transport, tourism, entertainment, arts, special events and a representative from a local resident group.
“One thing we agree on is we all want Sydney to be a truly global city,” she said, “one with fun and exciting things for people to see and do after dark while at the same time being safe.”
She said future city nightlife could involve encouraging museums, cafes and art galleries as well as retail outlets to stay open later.
She said having more options encouraged a safer, more balanced late night economy which attracted a wider variety of people for a range of different activities, not just centred around the consumption of alcohol.
Councillor Moore said in addition to public consultation, research had been commissioned into the value of the night-time economy.
“To make this a truly robust policy we need the community and industry’s input coupled with solid evidence-based research,” she said.
“The City is preparing a comprehensive report examining pedestrian volumes, antisocial behaviour and how people enter and leave late night entertainment areas.”
She said a cost-benefit analysis had also been commissioned to measure the economic value of Sydney’s nightlife and preliminary research in 2010 had found that between 11am and 3am on a Saturday night more than 20,000 people visited Darlinghurst Road in Kings Cross.
Councillor Moore said the highest pedestrian volumes were recorded in Bayswater Road between 1am and 2am with more than 2,000 people moving through every 20 minutes.
To participate in the discussion, visit this PS News link.
4 May, 2011
Health cuts unhealthy
is Premier’s warning
Premier Barry O’Farrell has urged the Federal Government not to cut spending on medical research in the upcoming budget.
Mr O’Farrell said the NSW Government stood side-by-side with medical researchers and would fight any moves by the Commonwealth to cut funding for their “life-saving and life-changing work”.
He said NSW medical research institutes were at the forefront of medical breakthroughs in areas like cancer, diabetes, burns and stem cell research.
“The work that occurs in NSW laboratories is ground breaking,” Mr O’Farrell said, “NSW researchers are world-renowned and have changed the lives of people in all corners of the globe.”
He said 12 of the nation’s leading medical research institutes were based in New South Wales, on top of the world class research that also occurs at NSW universities.
Mr O’Farrell said an estimated 5,000 researchers were directly employed in the medical research sector in NSW, with about 2,000 PhD students enrolled.
“The career paths of medical students will be put at risk if research grants are reduced,” he said.
“We’ll lose these talented students overseas and their expertise will be lost to Australian institutes and hospitals.”
Mr O’Farrell said supporting medical research in Australia should be a bipartisan issue.
“I call on the Prime Minister to provide an unequivocal guarantee that not a single dollar will be cut for medical research in the budget, or in the future.”
Minister for Health and Medical Research, Jillian Skinner said the NSW Government had committed to developing a 10 year Health and Medical Research Strategic Plan.
“Medical research affects every one of us,” Mrs Skinner said.
“We all have family members who are still with us because they benefitted from scientific breakthroughs and new technology.”
She said the strategy would be developed with help from, and as part of, a review headed by Peter Wills.
Mr Wills said every dollar invested in medical research funding meant thousands saved by keeping people out of hospitals and GP surgeries.
“Rather than making funding cuts, we should be looking at increasing the medical research budget,” Mr Wills said, “it’s critically important and in everyone’s best interests.”
4 May, 2011
Award sponsorship
backs a winner
WorkCover NSW is to become a major sponsor of the 2011 NSW Training Awards.
General Manager of WorkCover’s Work Health and Safety Division, John Watson said WorkCover NSW would sponsor the Trainee of the Year Award which recognised the highest achieving trainee from a NSW Registered Training Organisation.
Mr Watson said the sponsorship arrangement was part of WorkCover’s strategy to reduce workplace injury and illness.
“WorkCover NSW is focussed on preventing injuries and illness in the workplace,” Mr Watson said.
“Unfortunately 12 per cent of all injuries in New South Wales workplaces occur among the State’s young workers.
“Although workplace injuries in NSW are at their lowest levels in 20 years, the harsh reality is that in the 12 months to December 2010, 14 young workers were injured each day at work while sadly, 15 were killed on the job.”
He said WorkCover’s sponsorship of the awards, which was hosted by the Department of Education and Communities, was part of its strategy to reduce workplace injury and illness.
“WorkCover’s sponsorship of the Trainee of the Year Award is part of our comprehensive program to work with employers, workers and industry to reduce injury and illness among the State’s youngest workers,” he said.
“These awards encourage innovation and leadership among young workers and helps raise awareness of work health and safety among this important group.”
NSW and Australian Trainee of the Year for 2010, Gabriella Morona said the NSW Training Awards were a fantastic event that offered significant benefits to the entire vocational education and training sector.
“The NSW Training Awards raise the profile of vocational education and training as a valid educational and career pathway for young workers,” Ms Morona said.
“Winning the award has enabled me to establish great networks within my community and industry, and provided many outstanding opportunities.”
She said workplace safety was important to young people and preventing incidents in the workplace was a significant and important aspect of all traineeships.
Mr Watson said the NSW Training Awards would be presented on15 September 2011.
He said winners from NSW would enter the Australian Training Awards and compete against winners from all states and territories.
More information on the NSW Training Awards is available from this PS News link.
4 May, 2011
Electricity sales
spark inquiry
A Special Commission of Inquiry has been ordered into the sale of the State’s electricity assets.
Premier, Barry O’Farrell said he was determined to uncover the truth about the asset sale and its impact on NSW taxpayers.
Mr O’Farrell said the Inquiry would determine whether there had been any breaches of probity during the sale and what steps the Government should take to get a better deal.
“The sale was conducted in a cloak of secrecy,” Mr O’Farrell said.
“I committed to a full Inquiry into the sale, and that promise will be delivered.”
He said the Inquiry would investigate whether the sale complied with applicable laws, policies and practices, which included the circumstances surrounding the resignation of directors of Eraring Energy and Delta Electricity
He said it would also consider the value for money achieved for the State by selling the assets, compared to the benefits of retaining them.
The Special Commission of Inquiry would also provide advice on ways to promote competitive electricity prices and guarantee reliability of supply.
Mr O’Farrell announced that Brian Tamberlin, QC, would head the Inquiry.
He said Justice Tamberlin was an Acting Judge of Appeal of the Supreme Court and had experience in the Federal Court of Australia and the ACT Supreme Court.
He said Justice Tamberlin would have access to experts from the electricity industry as required.
“This will be an open inquiry,” Mr O’Farrell said, “anyone with information can provide evidence.”
He said the special commission would have the widest ranging powers, and its findings would form the basis for electricity plans in the future.
The Inquiry would deliver an initial report within four months and a final report in six.
4 May, 2011
Gardens plant seeds
for fundraising
The Royal Botanic Gardens has launched a campaign to encourage people and community groups to help save plant species at risk from climate change.
Acting Executive Director of the Gardens, Brett Summerell said the project, Save a Species, was a fun way to help save plant species from extinction.
He said all the campaign required people to do was to involve themselves in any activity they enjoyed, set up a challenge to achieve a goal and get people to sponsor them.
“You could do it alone or get your school, workplace or community group to create a challenge,” Dr Summerell said.
He said some ideas for challenges could include competing in the City2Surf; joining one of the supporting sporting groups at the Botanic Gardens or using a hobby or ability in some area to set a challenge and persuade others to sponsor its success.
“Saving a Species is a serious business and our challenge is to raise at least $50,000 this year through community support for the NSW Seedbank,” he said.
“So far the NSW Seedbank has helped bank 10 per cent of the world’s plant species and with our international partners, is committed to banking 25 per cent by 2020.”
Dr Summerell said at least 23 per cent of Australia’s 25,000 plant species were under threat of extinction.
“Our Seedbank is targeting plants most at risk from climate change and human activities to ensure powerful blueprints contained in plant DNA aren’t lost forever,” he said.
Photographer, Anne Geddes, said the NSW Seedbank and the Save a Species campaign inspired her most recent project.
“I came into contact with the NSW Seedbank when creating my book ‘Beginnings’ which was about the beginnings of all of the elements of nature, including seeds,” Ms Geddes said.
“I found my enthusiasm for new life was equalled by the enthusiasm of the staff at the NSW Seedbank and their quest to save plant species from extinction.”
She said an image from her book Beginnings was featured in the Save a Species campaign.
More information on the campaign and how to become involved can be accessed at this PS News link.
4 May, 2011
Building report
to nail reforms
A technical report on structural damage to buildings hit by Queensland’s Cyclone Yasi is expected to inform future design and construction standards according to the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB).
The Board funded the report entitled TC Yasi Structural Damage to Buildings which was compiled by James Cook University’s Cyclone Testing Station.
Chairman of the ABCB, Graham Huxley said James Cook University’s Cyclone Testing Station (CTS) marshalled Australia’s leading cyclone researchers and building professionals to compile data for the report.
He said the ABCB which provided financial support for the report, welcomed its release.
“The report noted that under the heavy wind loads of TC Yasi, buildings that had been built or extensively modified since the 1980s performed well,” Mr Huxley said.
“However, the report clearly pointed to the need for further review of a range of issues affecting community safety and resilience in cyclone prone areas.”
He said the report recommended several issues for consideration by industry, governments and the community relating to the performance of building products, Australian Standards and the cyclone construction requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC).
Mr Huxley said the Board would consider the report’s implications for work it already had underway on the adequacy of existing cyclone construction requirements and engaged with Standards Australia on issues identified in the report.
The ABCB also noted that the Cyclone Testing Station would work with other relevant authorities on various aspects of the report.
He said the ABCB was a joint initiative of all levels of government in Australia, with the building industry, and oversaw issues relating to health, safety, amenity and sustainability in building.
Mr Huxley said the Board promoted efficiency in the design, construction and performance of buildings through the National Construction Code.
The report was available on the Board’s website at this PS News link or from James Cook University at this PS News link.
4 May, 2011
Companion Cards mark
10,000th companion
The Department of Ageing, Disability and Health Care has issued its 10,000th companion card.
The cards, for people who require the assistance of a carer to travel on public transport or attend functions, allow carers the enter venues and travel without charge.
Minister for Ageing and Disability Services, Andrew Constance said the Companion Card was improving social inclusion and access.
“The Companion Card was introduced so people who required carer support don’t have to pay twice to access public transport or attend movies and other events,” Mr Constance said.
“It recognised the vital role that carers play for people with a profound or severe disability.”
He said there were now 2,000 participating organisations across NSW, including fitness centres, museums, cinemas and festivals.
“It provides equal access to public transport and a wide range of services and venues, such as the Sydney Opera House, and is having a positive impact on people’s lives,” he said.
Mr Constance said the Companion Card was issued to people with a significant and permanent disability who were unable to participate in most community based activities without significant help.
He said eligibility for the Card was based on the physical needs of the person with a disability and was not means-tested.
He said there were an estimated 25,000 people in NSW who might be eligible for the Companion Card.
Mr Constance said there had been positive feedback from cardholders, carers and families about the new places and positive experiences they have had using their Companion Card.
More information on the Companion Card is available from 1800 893 044.
4 May, 2011
Whiteboards add
colour to schools
Hundreds of NSW schools across the State are to receive new interactive whiteboards.
Premier Barry O’Farrell announced the $23 million project which would provide up to 1,000 NSW schools with new teaching aids.
He said the state of the art whiteboards had been shown to make a significant difference to education outcomes.
“Children in NSW schools should have access to the best technology to aid their learning,” Mr O’Farrell said, “that is why we are installing 4,300 new Interactive Whiteboards in classrooms across the State.”
He said the investment meant the Government was giving NSW students and teachers the best facilities possible to create a great learning environment.
“With this technology, teachers can personalise lessons, use a variety of media and access information from online learning programs on sites such as NASA,” he said, “all without leaving the classroom.
“We will prioritise this rollout to schools identified on the basis of student learning needs, where the use of Interactive Whiteboards has the capacity to significantly help education outcomes.”
Minister for Education, Adrian Piccoli said the whiteboards would allow classrooms to make the most of the digital revolution.
He said anything that could be done on a computer could be displayed using the Interactive Whiteboard.
“Interactive Whiteboards transform the learning process and prepare students to work in a connected, digital world,” Mr Piccoli said.
“Interactive Whiteboards also enable teachers and students anywhere in the State to share classes with children across the world.”
He said the rollout of whiteboards was expected to be completed by the start of term one in 2012.
4 May, 2011
Film viewers to be
waste watching
An Australian film documentary, funded by the City of Sydney, is to be shown at the Cannes Film Festival next month.
Lord Mayor of Sydney, Clover Moore, said the film, Waste Not, helped people understand what happened to the things they threw away and how they could start to reduce their waste.
“This is a timely film that inspires us to be part of the solution to waste, rather than
unwitting participants in the problem,” Councillor Moore said.
She said the documentary, which won a Highly Commended award at Sydney’s Flickerfest International Short Film Festival, would be shown in the Short Film Corner section of the Cannes festival this month.
She said it followed waste from the kerbside bin to the recycling and resource recovery facilities, and featured waste collectors, gardeners, scientists, environmentalists and Tetsuya chef, Luke Powell.
Councillor Moore recommended everyone see the film, and congratulated the Total Environment Centre for making it.
She said the Total Environment Centre had offered to show the documentary to interested Councils, organisations and schools.
She said the film would be touring with other winning films when Flickerfest toured around Australia.
Councillor Moore said Waste Not was filmed by Bonnie Elliott, edited by Aden Young and the music was composed by Peter Fenton and Chris Abrahams.
4 May, 2011
Final records on show
NSW State Records is celebrating its 50th Anniversary with the final instalment of 50 items from the State archives collection.
The new additions include letters which reveal why the public was not permitted to view “unsuitable” films about bushrangers and an audio-visual snapshot of Sydney’s main abattoir complex in 1961.
The fifth and final set of records, from 1920 until 1961, is now available online at this PS News link.
Exam timetables out
The Board of Studies has released exam timetables for students sitting the HSC in 2011.
Chief Executive of the Board, Carol Taylor said the exam timetable would be released in full on 2 May, but students could preview their own schedule in advance.
She said the first exam would be on Monday, 17 October and the final on Friday, 11 November.
Further information can be found at this PS News link.
Contract for cancer centre
The early work contract for the New England North West Regional Cancer Centre has been awarded to Hansen Yuncken.
Minister for Health, Jillian Skinner said patients and their families would soon have access to enhanced “one-stop-shop” cancer services close to home.
She said the Federal Government had invested $31.6 million in the project along with the NSW Government’s $10 million contribution.
Construction is expected to begin in the middle of the year.
Fishing closures lapse
Recreational fishing closures have been revoked at Fish Rock and Green Island.
Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson said revocation of the fishing closures meant the critical habitat rules that existed prior to Friday, January 28 would be reinstated.
“Recreational anglers are reminded that fishing with bait or wire trace while anchored or moored, or attaching weights of more than 500 grams to fishing lines is prohibited within 200 metres of Fish Rock and Green Island,” Ms Hodgkinson said
She said commercial fishing closures would continue unchanged.
Dressage wins grant
The Minister for Sport and Recreation, Graham Annesley has announced a $5,000 grant to Dressage NSW.
The grant is for the 2011 Concours de Dressage International and marks the fourth year in a row the event has received funding from the NSW Government.
Mr Annesley said it was Australia’s premier dressage event and would serve as good preparation for the London Olympic Games.
The event will be held at Sydney International Equestrian Centre at Horsler Park.
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